《Second Lead Syndrome: A Second Chance》


 Chapter 1 - Her Prince

    Shen Qian was just about average in everything. She had a look, height, and beauty. But, her ego was definitely not average... it was scaled way above her head. Even with that though, she still had a heart.


    She graduated from a second-rate university with a degree in Graphic Designing. Regardless of being so average, she was the main lead of her own story. Men had crushes on her and they would always gift her items. But, what she really wanted was for a real man who would approach her instead of just admiring her from the distance.


    Just a few days ago, one of her senior co-workers finally asked her out on a dinner date.


    Shen Qian squealed into a pillow before flopping herself into her soft bed. ''Senior Han finally asked me out and I told him that I would answer him by tomorrow. I don''t really know what to say!"


    She released her grip from the pillow and sighed. Shen Qian never dated anyone before because she kept waiting for her prince charming. She knew that she was just too stubborn about finding the perfect man, but she was not getting younger anytime soon.


    Many of her friends are dating or already married. Here she was, still fanatasizing about her first boyfriend and what requirements that man must meet.


    ''Senior Han is handsome, cute, and successful. We definitely like the same things.'' She stopped her thought process and screamed into her pillow. ''Why am I even second guessing this relationship when my heart is pounding so fast from just thinking about it?''


    Shen Qian grabbed her phone from the lamp table. "I am going to just watch some dramas to distract my heart."


    -- Four hours later --


    ''That was a good ending BUT NOOoo... my prince didn''t get the girl.'' Shen Qian was crying softly and wiping her tears with her blanket.


    Shen Qian was watching one of the most popular Chinese historical drama that just ended. She rooted for the Prince to get the main female lead because he was nice and protective of the girl since the beginning. However, in the end, the female lead chose the General over the Prince.


    Shen Qian was a stubborn woman, but deep inside, she was just as romantic as any other women. They want a man who will pamper them, buy them gifts, and tell them sweet things every so often.


    ''Don''t worry my prince, I will choose you instead. You deserve someone as strong as me.''


    Shen Qian charged her phone and relaxed her heart and mind. ''Senior Han is my prince..'' Shen Qian was sure of it. She smiled knowingly what to answer for tomorrow before falling asleep soundlessly.


    ----------------------------


    In a harsh thud, Shen Qian suddenly opened her eyes. She blinked a few times to noticed that she was on the floor. Furthermore, she was not in her room. Shen Qian quickly stood up. She squinted her eyes like she was trying to get a clearer understanding of where she was.


    ''How did I get here? Who are all these people staring at me?''


    "Look at her. She still has the guts to get back after Andy pushed her." A woman''s voice sounded out from the crowd.


    "She''s as stubborn as her ugly heart.. Tsk."


    Shen Qian looked at the audience. ''Are these people are talking about me?''


    She looked at her hands and noticed that this body wasn''t hers. This body was taller, more scrumptious and definitely had bigger woman parts. She stared at her breasts and glanced back down her butt.


    "Lena... You''re such a strong woman. That simple push won''t damage your plastic looks." A woman called out and giggled.


    ''Lena? Did I just time travel? Transmigrated? Dreaming?''


    Just then.. memories of Lena Shen flooded Qian. She tried to process the memories.


    ''So.. this Lena is a bitch.. who likes a guy name Andy Yang. I was a stubborn but nice girl.. and now I am a b*tch? Huh... at least I am rich.''


    Andy called off their engagement a few days ago because he fell in love with a beautiful girl, Eva Wu. Before Eva came into the picture, Andy and Lena did have a sincere relationship. Lena doesn''t know if Andy loved her, but she loved him dearly.


    Everything Lena did was to get any emotions of approval from Andy. Even if he never treated her badly, he never really loved her the same way she did for him.


    She came from a rich family and being pampered had always been something Lena grew up with. So Lena can never allow a nobody to steal Andy from her.


    Today, Andy was throwing a birthday party for Eva and Lena came to interrupt the party. Lena pulled a catfight with Eva before Andy pushed her down.


    Qian smirked. ''Whether this is a dream or not... right now I am Lena, and I will be sure to play my role.''


    "You are right." Lena smiled. (Qian but we will use Lena now since they are the same person)


    "I should not waste my beautiful time on Eva." Lena walked toward the table with drinks. She grabbed a glass and walked toward the couple.


    Andy protectively moved Eva behind him.


    "It is you.. who is evil." Lena raised the glass of wine up, as a gesture like she was gonna pour it. But instead, she brought the glass to her lips and took a sip. Then she swung her left hand and slapped Andy very loudly.

 Chapter 2 - Over you

    "Be thankful that I used my left hand," Lena replied as she took another sip of wine and placed it down back on a table she got it from.


    "You--you are crazy!" Andy yelled back. This would be considered the first time that Lena had ever been agressive towards him.


    "I mean a few minutes ago I would have agreed with you, but I think I am sane now," Lena spoke as she casually widen the distance between them. "Sane enough to see there are plenty more fishes in the sea, probably way better than you."


    "Good. You need to get over me, Lena."


    "I am over you."


    Somehow when Lena said that with no sadness in her voice, and with such a mundane expression, something painfully poked Andy''s heart for a second. Lena had always given him her full attention. This personality of Lena was nothing new for him.. but somehow, it seemed so different from her usual self.


    Lena silently hummed to herself as she took another good look around the crowd.


    `If Eva is the female lead, and Andy is the male lead, then who is my prince charming in this crowd? Dear Prince, since Eva chose Andy, I''ll choose you. Don''t you worry.''


    Andy did not like that Lena was not looking at him when he was talking to her.


    Lena ignored him while still looking for her prince. ''Hmm.. this guy here looks nice, but so is this guy over here. AHH... who is it?''


    "Lena, we may have broken up but our families are still friends and I hope you would stop bothering me and Eva." Andy tried to get her attention back on their conversation.


    "Ah, but I really mean it when I said I am OVER you. Shall I prove it?" Lena gave him a sly smiled.


    ''Hmph... I''ll just choose the most handsome one here!''


    To everyone''s surprise, Lena walked past Andy and Eva and quickly grabbed down a man and kissed him for a good amount of time.


    Lena finally released the innocent handsome man, turned her back to Andy and said, "You can date whomever you want, and I can too. Now that we have that cleared up, this party is boring anyway so I am leaving first, bye."


    Lena rushed her way out of the party without realizing the situation she left behind. She silently hummed to herself as she tried to analyze what her situation was going to be from now on.


    -------------------------------


    "Interesting." The "innocent man" touched his lips that were just kissed on.


    "Ah, Kris... Are you ok?" Eva walked over and reached to check up on him.


    However, Kris lifted up his hand to stop her. "I am fine."


    "Did you guys see that? Lena slapped Andy and kissed Kris?!! Is she wishing an early death for her parents?"


    "I know right? She just caused trouble with the two most prominent men in China!"


    "We should not associate ourselves with Lena anymore. She touched Mr. Li and everyone knows he despised a woman''s touch."


    "Yeah... It is fine if it was just Andy but now Kris too? We should stay away from her before we get her bad luck."


    People kept talking about the whole situation before Andy told everyone to enjoy the party. The music started playing and the mood turned brighter but the gossip and news didn''t stop.


    Everyone was chatting again not noticing that Kris also left the party shortly afterward. He grabbed out his phone and called his driver.


    "I am coming out." He quickly hung up before his driver could reply.


    A few moments later outside, Collin saw his boss coming out. Kris was fixing his tie and his hair was a bit messier than before when he had dropped off his boss.


    Collin opened the door for Kris and quickly head back to the driver''s seat. He knew something went wrong inside.


    "You are out early. Did the date your mother arranged for you didn''t go well?" Collin asked.


    "Oh... I forgot about her." Kris replied nonchalantly.


    Chris knew that his boss has a distaste for women but Madam Li will keep pushing more girls toward him. He felt so sad for all those dates who have been ignored by Kris Li.


    "Should I take you to the mansion or your penthouse?"


    With his thumb on his chin and his index finger caressing his lips, he replied "To Red Moon."


    Collin was astonished that his boss wants to go to Red Moob Club... It definitely has to do with his weird smile at the back. Collin silently prayed for that person who was going to meet Kris''s wrath.

 Chapter 3 - Red Moon Club

    In City A, there are three prominent families: Li, Yang, and Zhao. Kris Li is the current CEO of the Li Conglomerate, which includes casinos, hotels, and clubs. Andy Yang is the soon-to-be CEO of the Yang Enterprise, mostly consist of the entertainment industry. Then there is Ming Zhao, CEO of the Zhao Corporation that focuses on technology.


    It was still an early night, and the waiting line to enter Red Moon was long as ever. The car stopped and Kris got out and head straight into the club.


    The entrance guards greeted their boss and people waiting in line squealed at the sight of Kris arriving.


    "What? Kris is coming to Red Moon today? I thought he was attending Andy''s party?!"


    "OMG, who cares! Lots of girls decided not to come today because they wouldn''t see Kris but we are the lucky ones!"


    "Even if I can''t touch him... seeing him so close is all I need!"


    So much for the men thinking they would get the girls tonight. They hope that Kris just go and hid in his private room like every other time he was here.


    Kris head straight to his private lounge. Before he entered the room, he can hear lots of "voices" coming from inside the room. He slammed open the door...


    "AHH... BRO what the--"


    "Scram" Kris angrily said.


    The girls in the room grabbed their clothes and scattered out within a second. Kris sat opposite the man and stared the other man to death.


    "How many times have I told you not to use my room when I am out?" Kris demanded.


    "But Bro.."


    "How many?!"


    "Every time... 8?"


    "Collin, make sure to stop paying him for a month."


    "WAHHH.. 100?"


    "Make that 5 months."


    "AHH... I am sorry!" Lay scooted to pour a glass of wine for Kris.


    "Why are you even here? Are you not suppose to be at Andy''s party at the moment?" Lay tried to switch topics.


    "Boring."


    "Boring? Then should I entertain you? We have new girls tonight."


    Kris glared at Lay. He shook his head and closed his eyes as he drank.


    "Ahaha... I was just kidding." Lay refilled the glass for Kris.


    "There is something..."


    "WHAT? You know I will do anything for you."


    "How much do you know about the Shen family?"


    "Shen?" Lay paused and gathered his thoughts. He needed to be serious.


    "The Shen Industry owned about 80% of the wine business in City A. They have a large partnership with your companies. The Shen Industry also have several businesses in minerals and jewelry."


    "What about the family?"


    "Ah? Well, the old Shens lives in City Z. Currently, their companies are run by their son, Shen Mao and his wife, Shen Milli. They have only one daughter, Lena Shen, which you should know cuz Andy dumped her badly a few days ago. The family is made with old money. Why what''s up?"


    "Lena Shen..." Kris scoffed. "So tell me, what happens if a woman touches me?"


    "WHA?? Who touched you? I will go kill them for you. Did you punish her? Oh no, you can''t get your hands dirty, tell me who it is and I will go deliver justice for you bro."


    Kris just smiled and he continued to think how he was gonna punish that spoiled brat.


    "Don''t tell me it''s the Young Miss Shen? She''s so pretty... but I will still go and torture her if you need me to."


    "I want.."


    "Yes... Yes.. what do you want?"


    "Pull out all of the businesses with the Shens. I will make her come and beg me to punish her."


    "Yes!" Lay replied by he knew that that command was meant for Collin. Lay continued to pour more drinks for Kris.


    On the other side of town, Lena still had no idea about the storm that will hit her tomorrow.

 Chapter 4 - Apologize

    The sun shines brightly through the cracks from the curtains.. slowly heating up the face of Lena.


    "Ugh" Lena tossed a few times before opening her eye. Her heads hurt a bit, probably a minor hangover since the old Lena drank a lot before causing trouble.


    ''Wait... old Lena?!'' Lena quickly got up. Looked at herself in the mirror and held her head.


    ''It''s not a dream... I am really just here! Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my dear god! What did I do yesterday?''


    Lena pondered her actions yesterday. She also laid back on the bed going through all the memories of Lena. Her heart was pounding from all the spurge of emotions she was feeling.


    *Knock knock* "Miss... your father wants you down."


    "Ah, just let me shower and I will be right down." Lena smiled.


    Lena got into the shower to calm herself down. She also did not shower last night when she came home so she smelled a bit. She allowed the water to run when she realized that she kissed a man she should have not touched or even looked at.


    ''Ugh... why did I not go for someone else...'' She bumped her head on the shower wall a few times. She got out and dried herself before grabbing something nice from Lena''s ginormous closet. She headed downstairs where her parents were waiting for her.


    Lena quickly kneeled on the floor and pleaded. "Father, your daughter was wronged."


    She had enough time in the shower to thought about how to get out of this situation. She clearly figured out who she had offended yesterday. And she knows that both of them would probably attack her father''s business.


    "Lena.." Her father, Shen Mao, quickly helped her stand up. "Come here... no matter what you did wrong, I can never yell at you."


    Lena looked at her "father" in astonishment. ''Wow, this dad is very loving, but no wonder the old Lena was so spoiled.''


    "Do not worry about the company, I can handle these small matters." Shen Mao assured Lena.


    ''SMALL MATTERS?!'' Shen Milli was screaming in her head. Shen Milli only had one daughter, Lena, and she has caused yet more trouble for the family. This time though, it was not something simple that small discussions can resolve. The Yangs threw some warnings at their company and the Lis pulled out ALL of their business with them. It was not a small issue.


    Lena smiled. She just remembered that she too has a real family. She missed them but at least she has a loving one here too.


    "I am sorry Father. I will not cause any more trouble for the family."


    Shen Milli stood up and went to her daughter''s side. She sighed. "Lena... you should go live with your grandparents for awhile."


    "No!" Lena objected.


    "I know you do not like going to the vineyard... but your father needs to handle these matter and you need to--"


    "No Mother! I brought this to us, I can fix it."


    Shen Milli scrunched up her brows. Did her spoiled daughter who never cared about anything but fashion and Andy, said that she will fix this. Shen Milli was doubtful of her words, but the looks on Lena''s eyes were strongly telling her that Lena will fix this situation.


    "I know that before I was just playing around, but this time, it is something big. If you both keep hiding me away, then I will never learn. How am I supposed to take over after Father if I am useless? I am an adult now, at least for now, let me help."


    "Lili... you have never dealt anything with the company tho." Shen Mao spoke. Lili was the childhood nickname he uses to call her.


    "You are right Father, but you didn''t spend money for me to go to school for nothing. Remember, I did study business and graduate. Even though I was not a top graduate, I did not do so bad."


    "I know... but this isn''t a small matter that you have experience with. I am just worry that it will stress you out more."


    "I know Father. How about this, you can deal with the shareholders, and I can get the Li to retract their ban."


    Shen Mao was shocked that Lena was compromising with him. He was still not sure if Lena is ready though. She has no experience in the real business circle.


    "Just give me a chance. I know that if I just apologized to the Young Master Li... he will be sincere about it. After all, the Li business needs our wine industry to flourish. No other company makes as elegant wine as we do."


    What Lena said was indeed correct. Although Shen Wine Industry was taking a major blow from the ban, in the long run, the Li business will have a blow too as their business heavily relied on wine.


    The Shen family wine industry also has a strong and unique chemistry of wine that no other company can compete with. So even with the Li business out, there are still other companies to support them. After all, wine is a very demanded commodity in high society.


    "Very well... but just this once. If the situation gets worse, you will immediately go to City Z and learn there."


    "Thank you, Father, for trusting me one more time. I will not fail you." Lena smiled confidently.


    "Your mother and I will go to the company. You eat first before you go out. Make sure to dress appropriately."


    "Yes, I know."


    Lena went to eat breakfast while her parents head to the company.


    ''Apology, my a**. Who does he think he is... he is playing with a "vicious" lady.''

 Chapter 5 - Rose Red

    After breakfast, Lena went back to her room to organize her thoughts and plan. She has the real Lena''s memory and her own memory, so with both, she was like a monster businesswoman.


    Lena was a smart and talented girl like many high elite young woman who grew up rich. At a young age, she learned how to dance, played several musical instruments, and had proper etiquette lessons.


    Although she did not highly excel in business school, she still would be in the top 10%. She did not just study business for fun, and she did put the work and energy to succeed in it.


    She studied hard just so she can stand strong beside Andy, grooming herself to be the perfect elite wife for him. She catered to his every need and made sure she was on top of it all. She was carefree and loyal to him only. Now, all Lena''s hard work of sweat and blood were left on the battlefield to rot. But, Lena was not going to let each of her hard work go down the trash.


    Lena walked into the big walk-in closet. This time she took a proper look inside. The closet was as big as her room. It had a category for each of a women''s need. There were dresses, shoes, and purses of latest wardrobes. The jewelry and watches were placed by large mirrors. Lena did not know where to start.


    She was going to wear something professional¡­ but in the end, she went with a cute maroon blouse with a black flared out skirt. Lena put on some comfy high heel to match her outfit.


    She touched upon her hair and make-up. She put on some exclusive jewelry and her look was complete.


    ''Perfect¡­ I look like a proper villainess.'' Lena smiled at her reflection.


    She walked downstairs and the clinks of her heels alerted the staff about her presence. They all took several glances at her. Today, she was dressed as her usual, but her makeup was not as heavy. She looked prettier with the light make-up. Madam Shen had always urged Lena to embrace her natural beauty.


    "Miss, are you going out? Shall I prepare a car for you?" Aunt Mary asked. Aunt Mary has taken cared of Lena since she was young. Seeing her today, she felt that something has changed not only from the outside but from the inside of Lena.


    "No. I will drive myself today." Lena walked out to the garage and decided to test drive her personal custom made rose-red Rolls-Royce.


    Never in her life would she thought she could drive such a nice car. The color wasn''t her best personal favorite but it suited her personality very well. The inside was clean and girly like the outside. She fitted perfectly in.


    Lena sped her way to her father''s company. Shen Mao worked at the Shen HQ while most of the time, Shen Milli took care of Aura, the branched company that focused on jewelry.


    As she parked her car up front and headed into the company. Many employees greeted her, knowing that she was the CEO''s daughter. They had seen her a few times at the company but she was never here for work. They quickly stared her down.


    Lena could feel the negative vibes from the workers, especially the younger ones.


    "The company is in trouble because of the chairman''s daughter. Is she here to cause more trouble?"


    "I feel so bad for the chairman. First, he lost a great son-in-law and now the company too!"


    "There is a shareholders meeting today. How can she still show her face here after what she has done?"


    She had already expected this reaction from them already. Lena just ignored all the snarky comments and went her own way. She was here for more important stuff, she has no time for teaching useless people the proper way to be respectful. She took the executive elevator and headed straight to the top floor where her father''s office is.


    As she got out, Secretary Han was already waiting for her. Lena expected that her arrival had already reached her father''s ears before she reached the top floor.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen. Your father is currently in a shareholders meeting. You can wait in his office." He kindly gestured towards the Chairman''s office.


    "No need." Lena placed her purse down on Secretary Han''s desk and sat down on his chair.


    "I am actually here for you."


    Secretary Han looked confused. He first started working in the company as an apprentice and took over his father''s position as secretary of the CEO when his father passed.


    He was as intelligent and diligent as his father. He was young also, so most people know that he will probably get Vice-Chairman position.


    In all his 7 years, not once had Lena Shen asked something from him. Not even to get the schedule of the chairman.


    "What can I do for you, Miss Shen?"


    Lena spun around his chair a few times before continuing.


    "I want a 5-year report on all the companies under the Shen family."

 Chapter 6 - Reports

    She wanted a report on ALL of the companies under them?! The Shen family''s main business was in the wine and jewelry industry. The family owned a few local and real estate, but those were minor businesses. They keep track of all the companies records and do yearly reports so it was not entirely hard to compile the 5-year report for her, but why the sudden interest?


    Was this about what the Chairman mentioned this morning to him about her wanting to "help" out with the situation? Secretary Han still does not understand how a 5-year report of the company will help Lena.


    "Uh, I--" He responded.


    "Not now. Just give me a full detail report by dinner. I am pretty sure my father will invite you to dinner tonight since it is going to be a long day. Will it be fine on your schedule though?"


    Secretary Han was astonished once again. He nodded in reply to her. ''So I guess the young miss do pay attention to some details about her father.'' Her taking some interest in company matters is a small step forward.


    "Just give it to me by then."


    "Yes, I will be sure to."


    "Oh, how is the meeting so far anyway? I hope my father is not getting slammed by the shareholders."


    "Do not worry Young Miss, your father is well prepared."


    "Ehahaha" Lena chuckled. "I am not worried one bit about the overall situation. Be sure to tell my father to not worry about too."


    Lena sweetly smiled at Secretary Han before walking to the elevator and left.


    "See you at dinner!"


    ''Is it just me¡­ or there is definitely something off about her today?'' Secretary Han pondered before quietly entering the meeting again.


    ----------------


    Lena quickly got back into her car and drove to her next appointment.


    In every story, there was always at least one bad character who did the dirty work for evil girl¡­ and sure enough, Lena has few of her own. The others were just girls that fawned over Lena''s wealth and did whatever she asked them to do. As long as she gave them access to the latest clothes and jewelry, they did her every bid.


    However, Lena knew that these type of women will only be with her when she is still wearing her queen crown. Since her family is in trouble right not and she is no longer engage with Andy, these women would not budge a finger to help her.


    Lena could only think of a few people who would stay with her regardless of her situation. Before she left the mansion, she already texted one of the people to meet her at their usual location.


    Her phone rang and she quickly picked it up.


    "Are you here yet?" A man''s voice was heard.


    "Is that how you speak to your boss, Gary?" Lena replied.


    "..."


    "I''ll be there in five. Order my usual for me, thanks!"


    Lena hung up before he can reply.


    Gary had a huge crush on Lena since high school. But it was not until the end of college that Lena approached Gary. He could say they have only been close to each other for about a year now.


    Although Lena acknowledged Gary''s feeling, she told him that she was in love with Andy. But, that they can only be friends.


    Lena had then continued to take advantage of Gary''s skill and love for her to make him do things for her. Of course, she paid him for his help. She considered paying him to make it look better on herself.


    As much as Gary know that he was being used, love makes you do crazy things.


    However, knowing that Andy is no longer with Lena, he has not been sleeping well lately, thinking about how Lena is feeling.


    He had wanted to visit her a few times but did not. For their relationship, he can only approach her if she made contact first. Aish¡­ love is so painful. He had missed the opportunity to go for her many times because he felt that he should not get in between people''s relationship, but now should be different right?


    As promised, Lena got there in five minutes. She walked into the cafe and sat down by a man with a hoodie up.


    "What''s up with your get up?" Lena looked the man up and down.


    Just today when she texted him about meeting up, he got out of his apartment so fast he didn''t care about what he was wearing.


    "...."


    "Don''t I pay you enough to properly dress you? Tsk¡­"


    Gary put down his hoodie and ruffled his hair a bit. His handsome face was exposed and his eye glistened. That small gesture made him looked even cuter.


    Just then, their desserts arrived.


    "Ahhh.. finally.. Some coffee." Lena took a sipped but suddenly spit out the liquid back into the cup.


    "What f*** is this?!"


    "Uh -- your Americano? Did you not order that?" The startled waitress answered.

 Chapter 7 - The Three Kings

    Lena stared at Gary and then back at the waitress.


    ''Ah right¡­ Lena like bitter coffee while she prefers something sweeter. Ugh..'' She had overreacted a bit.


    "I don''t want this. Get me something sweeter, please." Lena placed the Americano back on the waitress'' tray and took a bite of a cranberry scone.


    "Is a Cappuccino alright?"


    "Mhm," Lena said as she still stuffed scones into her mouth.


    "Did you not eat? I didn''t order anything else." Gary looked at her.


    Lena was acting strange today for him. First, she did not want her usually Americano and now she was eating the scones that he had ordered for himself. She should know that the scones were his.... she told her to get the usual. Gary grumbly stared at her eating the scones peacefully. He did not even eat breakfast today yet. Those scones were going to be his breakfast.


    ''Wasn''t she always saying that she was on a diet? She must be eating a lot due to the breakup.'' Gary pondered.


    He heard that when girls go through a breakup, they stress eat or cut their hair. He wouldn''t want Lena to cut her beautiful hair. Gary smiled and stared at Lena quietly. It was fine if he did not have breakfast. It was not every day that he sees her not her usual self.


    Lena forgot her table etiquette for a while there. She had not tasted such well-made dessert before. She wiped her mouth with a napkin before getting serious.


    "How good are your computer skills?" She asked.


    Gary raised his one of his eyebrows and smiled at Lena. He grabbed one of the scones and took a bite.


    "We have been together for a few years now, and you are questioning my skills? Well, I can assure you that every single of my skills is top notch." He spoke, highlighting the word "every."


    "..."


    "You do not have to worry about any of the jobs you gave me. When have I ever failed you?"


    "I am not worried. Why does everyone keep telling me to stop worrying?"


    "Maybe because there are some wrinkles showing on your face?"


    "AhhHH?" Lena touched her face. She just looked at herself in the car before coming here. She had no wrinkles.


    "I am just kidding. You look as stunning as ever, Lena."


    "Better be! Or I will show you who has wrinkles!"


    Gary was going to grab a scone for himself again, but Leah pulled the whole dish to her. She hugged it like Gary was stealing her food. He backed his hands away.


    "I want all the information you have on the three kings." She clarified.


    Once again, Lena has asked him to do the impossible.


    "That is¡­ if you are skills are top notch as you said." Lena taunted him.


    "Heh¡­ of course. But are you not afraid of them? The Lis already banned doing business with your father."


    "Afraid?" Lena stared at Gary seriously. "Not one bit. If I have wronged someone, they should wrong me¡­ not my family."


    Gary had never seen Lena so strong-willed and not faltering at all. He likes this side of her a lot.


    "Now, can you do it or not? I can always ask someone else who is top notch."


    "Hey, you can''t find anyone better than me. I will absolutely do it with perfect scores."


    "You have 24 hours then."


    "??!!!!" 24 hours to dig up the deep and dark into the THREE KINGS! It seems like he won''t be getting much sleep tonight also.


    Lena finished the scones and her cappuccino arrived. She took a sip and smiled. ''Ahhh¡­ sweet caffeine. Home sweet home.''


    Gary was awestruck to see her smile so beautiful and relaxed.


    "Are you free today?" She asked.


    "Hmm?" Gary snapped out from his daze.


    "Are you free today?"


    ''FREE??!! She just assigned him an impossible task and he has only 24 hours to complete it. Of course, he is not free.''


    "I want to go shopping today. Seems like you need a¡­ makeover too." Lena stared at what Gary was wearing one more time.


    ''Shopping with Lena? Does that mean she is going to pick out some clothes for him?! Screw the job and 24 hours¡­ he can do it in 1 hour with his eye closed.''


    "En. I am free."


    "Great!" Lena tossed her keys to him. "You are driving."

 Chapter 8 - Shopping

    "Lena, did you ask me to drive so you can stuff yourself with more food?"


    Before the left the cafe, Lena had ordered another batch of scones. Somehow she was regretting never liking scones before. Was it due to her old self or was that she was in a different body?


    "Why? Are you gonna stop loving me if I become fat?" Lena responded after she swallowed what she had left in her mouth. She stared at Gary with puppy eyes. Gary blushed and turn his head back on the road.


    "I am just kidding." Lena poked Gary on cheeks. She sweetly giggled and continue to eat.


    "You can eat as much as you like. Whether you''re fat, ugly, or disabled¡­ I will still --"


    "Stop." Lena put her food down and stared at Gary. "I don''t want to hear that from you. Not now and not ever."


    Gary swerve the car to the side of the road and parked the car. He turned and faced Lena''s serious face.


    "Lena¡­ I am serious though."


    "Gary¡­ you are a handsome and nice man. A perfect prince on a white horse, but we are in different worlds. My heart is too dark and thorny for such likes as you. The closer you come in, the deeper my thorns will hurt you.


    My love life can come and go¡­ but real friends are not like that. When Andy broke off the engagement, everyone left me. Only those who real with me stayed. I am a selfish woman, Gary. I will never love you, but you can never leave me."


    Lena blinked a few times, getting back to reality. She didn''t expect to say those last few words but it seems like the nasty personality of the old Lena is embedded deep into this body.


    Lena touched her heart as she ponders if she was being a positive influence for this body or this body was poisoning her soul and mind.


    However, Gary thought that she was going having a pain in her heart talking about Andy.


    "I am not going to leave you. Now, c'' mon. Didn''t you say you were gonna buy me some clothes?"


    "Buying?! Who do you think I am? Your sugar mommy?"


    Gary laughed. Lena was back to normal. He started the car again and kept driving until they reached their destination.


    They both walked into Sky Heights District Mall. As he trailed behind Lena, he felt that his purpose here with her was to be her bag holder¡­


    They first went to stores that catered towards women clothing. Lena bought a few new daily dresses and formal wears. Lena took her time looking at the items and asked Gary many opinions. But, what can he say, she did look good in everything. Thankfully, Lena did not buy everything she touched. He knew that she did that a lot.


    And as he assumed correctly¡­ Gary carried all the bags. However, they finally entered a store with men clothing. Gary felt a bit warm inside, seeing Lena being very thoughtful as she looked through the clothes.


    Every time they entered a store, the store attendants would come and try to help Lena, but she would always say that she doesn''t need them.


    Lena grabbed a shirt from the rack and held it to Gary, visualizing how he would look in the shirt. The gesture was just like a girlfriend picking out clothes for her boyfriend.


    "Wha¡­ isn''t it Miss. Shen, the fallen princess." A girl''s voice emerged from the background. Lena turned and saw that it was a few girls.


    "You still have time to go out and play when your daddy''s company is failing." The girl name Angie spoke.


    "And who is this? Your new boy toy? Can''t get a rich man so you are playing with a young man." Sophia commented as she stared at Gary.


    Gary was going to say something but Lena stopped him. She stepped up towards the girl. She was a bit taller than the girls, asserting her dominating aura over them.


    "Failing?" Lena scoffed. "Even with the Shen Industry failing business, I can still afford more things that you could ever touch. I would watch what you say in front of me."


    "You---you.."


    "And boy toy? Can''t you see that I am just pretty? Without even Andy, of course, there will be a line of men licking my feet. You''re free to join them too."


    Angie was so pissed of she held out her hand to slap Lena.


    "Stop."

 Chapter 9 - I dont hate you

    Everyone turned to look at the person who spoke. It was a soft and sweet angelic voice.


    ''Eva¡­ why am I not surprised.'' Lena thought to herself.


    Eva walked over with soft footsteps. Following her was two new bodyguards that Andy assigned to her. She told him that she did not need them, but for Andy, she kept them by her sides.


    ''Andy never gave me bodyguards.'' Lena pondered.


    "You should not bully Lena." Eva spoke again, her sweet voice was calming the situation down.


    The three girls were not scared of Eva but only the two hard-looking men behind her. They all knew that Eva was just a woman with no background. Even though Andy favored her, she was not very much likable.


    "Count yourself lucky Miss. Shen." They all turned and left.


    "Are you alright?" Eva asked Lena.


    Lena threw the shirt over the rack and left the store too. Her mood to shop was now sour by this angelic figure. Gary quickly grabbed the shopping bags and followed Lena out. These girls ruined his chance to have an outfit picked by Lena. He will make sure to remember them.


    "Lena, wait." Eva shouted, running after them. "Please, wait a moment!"


    Lena stopped and turn to look at the small girl. "Miss. Wu, I don''t remember us being close enough for you to call me by my name."


    "I¡­ uh.. Miss. Shen, can we speak?"


    "Are we not speaking now?" Lena rolled her eyes.


    "Uh.. I mean somewhere else."


    "Look.." Lena walked towards Eva. The two bodyguards stepped up to block her path.


    "Chillax men. Didn''t you hear your lady? She just wants to talk. Women too can have civilized conversations."


    Lena sized up the men. "And I wouldn''t be stupid enough to go against you two. Does it look like he can too?"


    Lena pointed at Gary in which the two big guys looked at him. They saw him as no harm.


    Gary, at that moment, felt like his man pride being crushed. He may not look buff or strong, but he was still tall and handsome.


    The two men opened the path for Lena. They made sure to be extra alert if this woman pulled a move on their lady.


    "Are you expecting me to be thankful?" Lena continued the conversation.


    Eva just nodded her head.


    "I don''t need your pity, you know. These type of problems won''t scratch a person like me."


    Lena stepped a bit close to Eva, again.. airing her assertive aura over the small kitten.


    "However, you should look out for yourself more, don''t you think?"


    Eva was confused by what Lena was trying to tell her. She does not need to look out for herself, isn''t that her bodyguards'' duty?


    "The high society isn''t a place for someone like you." Lena clarified.


    "Why do you hate me so much? I had never done anything wrong to you."


    "I don''t hate you."


    Eva didn''t believe that. Ever since she met Lena, Lena had not once been nice to her. Lena had played around with Eva''s feelings many times.


    "Well¡­ I did hate you. But now, I just pity you." Lena corrected herself.


    "Pity?"


    "Look around you and then look at yourself. Just because you are wearing fancy clothes, have men protecting you 24/7¡­ it doesn''t mean you are one of us. You can be born with money, made with money, but you just can''t climb up after 1 day and say you belong here.


    The poor looks at us and complain that we are spoiled rich children that live off the money of our parents, but we go through as much as anyone else. We grow up to be the future leaders of the world. Since we are born, we were groomed for war. Up here¡­ our war is different than where you are used to.


    You are not prepared for the war ahead of you. So let me be the first to warn you, step up your game, or you will be stepped on." With that, Lena left leaving a distraught Eva holding her position but she looks like she can fall at any second.


    Lena was correct. Eva may have chased love and met her prince charming, but the picture was not that easy.


    Andy''s parents have not accepted her as their future daughter-in-law. She was looked like a gold digger and the person who ruined their chance to have Lena as their daughter-in-law.


    When she goes out with Andy, it''s all of Andy''s friends and relatives. She knows no one and always kept a smile as she belonged with them. She nodded and laugh with them, but most of the time, she could not relate to their topics of humor.


    She has been taking lots of classes to be perfect for Andy. She was trying so hard.


    But deep down¡­ she knows how misfitted she was. But in the end¡­ she still has Andy, doesn''t she? And they say love conquers it all.


    That''s right, as long as they both love each other, there is nothing that they both can''t do.


    ''I will show you, Lena¡­ that I am better than you.''

 Chapter 10 - Same but different

    "Don''t you think you were a bit too harsh on her?" Gary asked as he sat in the driver''s seat.


    "Are you lecturing me how to behave, Mr. Chen?"


    Gary gulped. He knew that when Lena called him that, she was angry.


    "I only spoke the truth. She will have to stop living in her perfect little fantasy."Lena looked down and solemnly spoke. "No one woke me up from my dream¡­ I learned it the hard way. So I was just doing something I wished someone did for me."


    Gary felt like he has not done anything good today for her. He was about to caress her face but she suddenly looked up at him.


    "Ah right.. We didn''t get you some clothes. Maybe next time."


    He smiled. ''She said next time...''


    ------


    Gary drove back to his apartment and Leah head back home for dinner. She was expecting her first report for the night.


    She pulled her car up front in the driveway. She hopped off the car and was greeted.


    "Welcome back home Miss. Shen."


    "I have bags in my car. Bring those up to my room." Lena threw the key to the young boy who would drove the car back into the garage.


    "Oh, and are my parents home yet?"


    "Your parents will be arriving a bit late today for dinner. Mr. Han will also be joining."


    "Mhm¡­" Leah headed up to her room. She changed into something for comfortable and sat on her desk looking up a few things while she waited.


    So far from today''s experience, Lena knew that her real self was mostly dominant, but there are some strong personalities from the old Lena.


    ''Hmm.. so it''s just like two souls merging together. I would need to think before I speak more often.''


    She also learned from today that her real self doesn''t exist. Shen Qian is non-existent. In fact, nothing in "her world" exist here.


    The year is still 2020, but the people are different. There are still some same aspects such as technologies, but they have different names. Some historical events happened and some did not.


    ''Hmm¡­ so this is like the k-drama "W" where everything is almost the same but has different names.''


    She had concluded that this "world" was not hers and different. Lena doesn''t know if she wanted to think about what happened to her real self. It would put more thought to her mind. She knew that if she is here now, she should focus on herself. Getting back home was never the way to resolve her current situation.


    Lena did not know if this was fated or a punishment sent from above. Whatever it was, she wasn''t brought here to be the kind female lead. Her character herself was not too overpowered. But for one thing that they both shared was that their ego was over their heads. They were both stubborn too.


    Just then, she heard some noises of doors closing and voices of chattering.


    ''That must be my parents!''


    Lena rushed down to greet them. She quickly rushed and hugged her dad.


    "Lena¡­ is something wrong? Did something happened?" Shen Mao asked in a panic.


    "No¡­I just missed you." Although he was not her real dad and she was not sure if she can even return, it feels nice to be held and love. A father''s embrace is very powerful.


    "Ehem¡­" Shen Milli cleared her throat. ''My daughter didn''t hug me¡­ and I raised her with me own two hands!''


    "Ahhh¡­ mommy I missed you too!" Lena went to hug her mom next.


    "I think you forgot about someone." Shen Milli spoke.


    Lena stuck her head out from her mom''s hug and stared at the man behind her father.


    "Really? I only have one dad and one mom and I am pretty sure I am the only child of this house."


    "Lena!" Shen Milli scolded her.


    "Ah?? Fine, I can hug Secretary Han too!" Lena walked over to hug him also.

 Chapter 11 - Family Dinner

    "No need." Secretary Han stepped back a bit.


    "You sure? You won''t get a chance like this again. To hug someone as pretty as me."


    "I am here for the food, not for hugs."


    "Suit yourself." Lena walked in with her parents not noticing how red Secretary Han was already.


    ''Ahh¡­ dammit. She looks prettier with casual clothes. I shouldn''t have said anything.''


    Shen Mao treated Secretary Han as his own son. His father worked alongside him for a long time but sadly died because of early illnesses. Throughout the years, Shen Mao had a strong relationship and trust with the Han family. Henry''s mother died while giving birth to him, so he was raised without a mother. Shen Mao promised to look after Henry when his father passed.


    They all sat down in the dining area where the food was already placed and ready for them.


    "I heard you came to the company today." Shen Mao started the dinner conversation.


    Lena sneaked a glance at Secretary Han to see if he may have told her father about the details of her visit. Seems like he did not. She relaxed a bit. It was not like she was hiding something from her father, she just did not want to make him so anxious and worried about what she was doing.


    "I just came to take a glance at the situation. I didn''t stay long since you were in a meeting. By the way, how was that anyways."


    "Could have been worse. The shareholders are giving me 1 month to find a proper investor into the company that can replace the loss we will have in the next term."


    "Do not worry Father, I have already thought about the perfect apology for Mr. Li."


    "En¡­ I trust you."


    Lena smiled. She was happy that her dad has sincere trusts on her. ''I won''t fail you¡­ we won''t.''


    "The annual charity event is also in a few days. It is not the best timing, but you would be needing to attend that." Shen Milli spoke,


    "That''s right! I have forgotten¡­"


    "In the past, you have never attended it, but I think this is an opportunity for you to learn and get your image fixed."


    "Yes, you are right mother."


    "Shall I have Secretary Han to accompany you?" Her dad asked.


    "I would not mind if I am needed to accompany you, Miss. Shen." Secretary Han spoke.


    Lena looked at Secretary Han. ''He would be a nice man to accompany me but¡­''


    "No need. He is better to be by Father''s side. I can find someone else to accompany me. And if not, going alone is perfectly fine."


    They chatted a bit more on lighter topics. The environment was so warming, not reflecting any bits the storm that came hit them.


    ------------


    "You guys can leave first, I will send Secretary Han out." Lena smiled as they finished their dinner.


    Her parents went up to their room together and she walked Secretary Han out. He parked his car just in the driveway, so it was not a long walk.


    "Do you have the report?" Lena asked.


    "Yes, of course."


    Secretary Han unlocked his car and open the passenger door. He went into his suitcase and grabbed out a memory disk.


    "The report was too large to be printed. I compiled them all here." He knew that if he had printed them and handed them to Lena in paper form, it might be suspicious. He handed it to Lena.


    "It is encrypted with your login to the company''s server."


    "As expected, Secretary Han is very thorough. Well then, good night and thank you for doing this for me."


    "Good night then."


    Secretary Hand got into his car left. Lena rushed to her room to review the content. She plopped the disk into the laptop and began analyzing the reports.


    She doesn''t have an Eidetic memory, but she has great skimming skills that she had learned in college in both of her "lives."


    Lena stayed up all night, looking through the company report and searching for any information that she can use to her advantage. When the sun rose, it was a signal that she needed to stop. She closed her laptop and went to take a shower to wake her up for the next day.

 Chapter 12 - Appointment

    When Lena got down to go for breakfast, her parents were already gone. She was enjoying her morning coffee and browsing at the morning news.


    "Shen Wine Industry Stocks sinking like the Titanic."


    ''Dropping my a**.'' Lena mumbled.


    "Li Conglomerate retracts business with Shen Wine Industry!"


    "Princess Lena angers one of the Kings!"


    "Famous Actress Lily returns from filming overseas."


    "Lena Shen moved on from Andy Yang?!"


    This one has a picture of Lena sitting in the car with Gary. *Scoff* ''They should at least take a picture of her good side if they want good gossip news.''


    ''Is there anything that is interesting in the news?''


    Her phone rang and she picked it up.


    "You''re up early to cause trouble."


    "Ah?? I didn''t sleep one bit with the task you had given me."


    "I did not sleep too¡­ Anyways, you must have found something interesting to have called me already."


    "I did! Do you have your laptop that I gave you?"


    "Ah.. Let me go to my room."


    Lena put him on hold as she grabbed her coffee and went back to her room.


    Gary specifically designed a laptop with high security for her. She used this laptop mostly for her work and everything else.


    "Ok.. what''s up."


    "I sent you a file."


    "Ok¡­ I received it." Lena opened the file. The file included three folders, each dedicated to one of the three kings.


    "Why are the folders on the Yangs and Lis so small in size?"


    "Hey¡­ Do you know that it has only been 17 hours since I last saw you? I still have a few more hours to go!"


    "And¡­ do you know how hard it is to crack open the top technology company under the Zhao''s?! I started with the hardest first then I will go for the easy ones."


    "I thought you said you can do anything."


    "I can¡­ but I need more time. I am giving you something you can work with while I crack the eggshells on the other two."


    "Fine. You can have another 24 hours."


    "Ehehe¡­ I love you boss. Anyways, I am not going to spoil the news but there are a lot of researches that the Zhao Corporation are doing. Some of them might interest you."


    "En. K, Bye!"


    Lena hung up and opened the folder for the first King, Zhao. She put her skimming skills back to use¡­ and it was not until two more cups of coffee that she found something interesting.


    ''Hmm¡­ It seems like I found my date for the Charity.''


    Lena quickly dressed for her adventure. For today, she wore a nice floral shirt with some nice shorts that she purchased yesterday.


    And again, she drove her Ros¨¦ (the name of her car).


    She sped her way to the Zhao corporation building. Lena was more used to driving the car now.


    As she walked into the building, there were eyes all over her. Of course, she and her family are still front page news so people are obviously going to throw comments.


    "Is that Lena Shen? What is she doing in our company?"


    "Is she here to cause more trouble?"


    ''Breathe Lena. Just ignore¡­ ignore.'' Lena walked to the front desk.


    The front desk lady faked a smile at Lena. "Hello, how can I help you miss?"


    "I have a meeting with Ming Zhao."


    Lena lied. She knew that she was not doing to be able to meet the guy without having an appointment.


    "I don''t seem to see you here on his schedule."


    "Hmm? Are you sure?! Let me see?" Lena quickly pushed the screen to her so she can get a glimpse of the schedule.


    "Ah? You are right! My call must have not gone through!"


    Lena saw that he should be arriving at the company soon from his lunch meeting outside today.


    ''Have Lena Shen gone stupid?'' The front desk lady pondered.


    "It''s fine¡­" Lena walked away. But to the lady''s surprise, Lena walked to sit in one of the seatings and she was not leaving.


    She quickly walked up to Lena. "Sorry Miss, but you cannot sit here if you do not have an appointment."


    "I do have an appointment though¡­ sometime in the future."


    The lady frowned. "You have to leave this area, or I will call security."

 Chapter 13 - A Friend

    Lena was irritated. She knew that this lady was lying. What kind of "sitting area" is only for appointment only.


    If this was her company, this front desk nobody lady would be fired already. And if Lena was not here for a purpose, she would have slapped this puny lady''s face a few times.


    "Uncle, do you have an appointment?" Lena asked the man sitting across her.


    "I -- uh¡­ I work here."


    "He does not have appointment," Lena replied to the lady.


    "He works here, he can sit here."


    "Miss with the ugly make-up, do you have an appointment?"


    Lena asked the lady who is obviously here to attract the rich men of this company.


    She was definitely not an employee here.


    "Hmm? Do I need an appointment?" The female chick replied, not realizing the situation.


    "Are you going to kick her too?" Lena asked the front desk lady.


    "Miss, she is--- is a friend of the Young Master."


    "It is obvious you are just spouting excuses to get me out of here."


    Lena rolled her eyes at how stupid this lady was making such lame reasons.


    "Miss. Shen, this is really for appointments only. Please do not cause any trouble here."


    She spoke loudly to get the attention of the guards at the front gate. A few of them walked over.


    "Gosh, if you want me to leave, just ask civilly. Is this how Zhao Corp treats their guests?"


    "You are not a guest though."


    The guards without even thinking dragged Lena out the door.


    Lena finally lost her patience and was about to punch someone but then the person she was waiting for finally arrived.


    The man stepped out of his fancy shiny black Maybach. He stood tall with his blond hair. His mother is Italian so he has the dashing look of mixed blood.


    His body was well built and as heavenly to be considered as one of the top bachelors of China.


    He glanced at Lena for a second and continued to walk into the company.


    "Hey wait!"


    He didn''t stop. Lena rushed in front of the man and spread her arms out, stopping him.


    He was a large man and Lena felt that she needed her whole body to get his attention.


    "I am talking to you, Ming Zhao."


    "Do I know you?"


    "She is Miss. Lena Shen." Secretary Tim whispered to his ears.


    "Hmm¡­ Miss. Shen, as if you haven''t already pissed off the other two great kings, you are here to add another one to your list?"


    This was the first time he saw Lena Shen. He was not very much into publicity.


    The people who have been observing Lena since she entered the company laughed.


    "She is so stupid to cause more trouble."


    "Does she like attention that much? I feel so bad for her parents¡­ to had raised such a useless daughter. She is such a disgrace."


    Ming Zhao pushed Lena aside and continued to walk in.


    "I guess you don''t care about what I know about Project Crystal" Lena quickly blurted out.


    As she expected, Ming Zhao stopped and turned back to her.


    He stared at her in contempt. ''How does she know about that? Isn''t the project exclusively secret?!''


    "How do you know about that?" His stare at her intensifies.


    "Do you really want me to answer you here?" Lena looked around to gesture that they are in a public area and many people are staring at them.


    Ming relaxed his composure. "What do I have scheduled for the rest of today?"


    "You have a meeting on the new phone release and then another meeting with the design team in the evening." Secretary Tim replied.


    "Reschedule them both." Ming looked back at Lena and then continued walking.


    "Are you coming or not?" He yelled back.


    "Oh¡­ I am coming." Lena smiled. She trailed behind him.


    "Ah wait, Mr. Zhao! You have a friend waiting for you in the lobby for a while now." Lena pointed to the girl from before.

 Chapter 14 - Project Crystal

    Ming looked at Lena in confusion. Then he looked at who she was pointing.


    When did he have such an ugly friend like that? He hated all these fake women who were always waiting for him in the lobby.


    He thought he already told the security to stop letting these pests infiltrate the building.


    "She is not my friend." He sternly stated.


    "Really? But everyone heard your front desk lady said that is your FRIEND." Lena enunciated the word friend very clearly.


    Ming walked towards the front desk lady. She shivered as she bowed down. ''AHH, why did she have to have a big mouth and cause trouble!''


    "Secretary Tim, when had my father start hiring blind and incompetent workers?"


    "Never sir."


    "Then why is this lady still here?"


    "I will take care of it right away."


    "And make sure no more "friends" can enter the building again!"


    "Yes sir."


    "Ah! Young Master Zhao, I am wrong. Please give me another chance!" The front desk lady continued to cry on the floor but Ming Zhao paid no attention.


    He walked to the executive elevator with a happy Lena trailing behind him and Secretary Tim taking care of the problem outside.


    The elevator closed and Lena giggled silently to herself.


    Ming Zhao stared down at Lena who seems to be chuckling like he isn''t there. ''


    Is it just me or she is kinda¡­ cute?'' He stared her for a bit more before the elevator stopped at his floor.


    His other secretaries stood up and greeted him as he walked out of the elevator. Lena followed him closely as they both entered his office without a word.


    Did they see that correctly? Was that Lena Shen with their boss?!


    --------


    "Sit down."


    Lena sat down on the sofa while Ming Zhao went to the cabinet and poured himself some whiskey.


    "You want some?"


    "No thank you. Isn''t it a bit early to be drinking?"


    Ming Zhao glared at her.


    "Heh¡­ some lady just told me that she knows about Project Crystal, a project that even I have minimal access to and if I am not drinking now then what should I be doing?"


    ''What? He doesn''t know anything about Project Crystal?''


    Should she have gone to the other Zhao instead? Lena was contemplating what to do with her current situation.


    "I''m curious though, how did you gain access to such file."


    "A great magician doesn''t reveal her tricks."


    "You are no great magician."


    Lena stood up and actually pour herself some whiskey to join the man. Gosh, she is just winging this as she goes.


    "Your father recently revealed to you and your mother about an older bastard son he has."


    "How!-- What more do you know?"


    "I know that you were named as the next heir of the Zhao Corporation. But the Zhao follows a strict rule of having the first born to inherit the business so that there would be no internal war within the family."


    Ming Zhao continued to listen.


    "As much as your father does not want to recognize this son of his, your grandparents are strict with tradition. I am assuming in the next few days, everyone will know the identity of this brother of yours and he will be joining the company really soon."


    "What does this have to do with Project Crystal?"


    "Well, obviously you are not going to let that bastard steal your rightful inheritance. Your father made a mistake but it doesn''t have to cost your future."


    "Get to the point already."


    "Project Crystal is the oldest project your family has researched and invested in."


    "You still have not said anything that I don''t already know."


    "Wow¡­ you are really a climax killer. Fine¡­ what if I told you that you have been looking in the wrong areas?"


    Finally, Lena caught the attention of Ming Zhao. He gulped down the rest of his whiskey. He sat down and stared at Lena for her to continue.

 Chapter 15 - Contract with a King

    ''I felt like I should have prepared a presentation.''


    "Project Crystal was created to find a new reusable energy source for technology and production. Coal and oil are limited resources and they will run out sometime in the future. Solar energy is reusable but their current energy output is not to the amount comparable to raw resources."


    "Project Crystal is currently in the stage of looking at an energy source with plants. Interesting field¡­ but they are as inefficient as solar energy."


    "AHH¡­ I am throwing stuff that I don''t even know about. Let me just give you the answer. What if I told you there is a way to convert solar energy to be as powerful as nuclear energy?"


    "And the process is also less costly and more environmentally friendly."


    "Impossible." Ming Zhao interjected.


    Lena shrugged. "I am not a scientist. I only know the answer. I don''t know why it''s the answer, I just know that it works."


    "What is it?"


    "Do you think I would openly give you an answer without something in return?"


    "What is it that you want? Money? I can invest in Shen Wine Industry and pull your father''s company out of the depression."


    "Do you think I am stupid? I said I am not a scientist but I am still very much a businesswoman."


    Ming Zhao does not like this woman one bit.


    "When I give you this answer, you can present it your grandparents. Having such a solution to a 5-year generation of research, I bet that it is strong enough to make you the next heir."


    "I am listening¡­"


    "You can take all the credits for the answer. I just a few conditions. First, you will invest in Shen industries. Second, I get 5% profit from this and 15% of the stock in the new business that will boom from this.


    "Third, you must not mention to anyone that I gave you this answer and I too will never tell a soul about this. And finally, you owe me 5 friendly favors." Lena continued.


    "Favors?"


    "Yeah like going out for dinner or stuff like that. I will never ask you to do anything illegal or anything damaging to your image or family. That''s why it''s called friendly favors."


    Ming Zhao pondered for a bit. "Okay."


    "Perfect! I have the contract right here!" Lena pulled out the contract she had drafted beforehand.


    He read over the conditions and quickly signed the contract. It was a simple contract that was definitely in favor on his side.


    "Now tell me, what is the answer?"


    "Simple!"


    Lena leaned over to Ming Zhao''s ear and whispered something to him.


    "That''s it?"


    "Mhm."


    Ming Zhao felt like he got the bottom of the bargain.


    "I am pretty sure you have someone you trust. Have them confirm my answer. It will blow your mind what little unnoticeable things can do."


    "I''ll be sure to have them confirm it by tomorrow. If this is all a lie, I will---"


    "It''s not a lie. I didn''t waste my efforts to tackle the great Ming Zhao just to have my head cut off."


    "Better be."


    "Ah¡­ and when you do get your confirmation, here is my number."


    Lena passed a pink business card with her number on it. It was even scented.


    "I will be waiting for your call, Ming-ge."


    Ming Zhao eyes looked at her. The sound of her calling him that was delicate to the ears.


    "I didn''t eat lunch so I have to run before I faint in this office. We wouldn''t want the next top news to be that Miss. Lena Shen fainted inside Ming Zhao''s office."


    With that, Lena left the office.


    "Heh¡­ what an interesting woman."


    Ming Zhao called in Secretary Tim.


    "Contact Arnold to meet me here in an hour. I have an assignment for him."


    "Yes sir. Does this have something to do with what Miss. Shen said?"


    "If what she said is correct, seems like I can get rid of my brother earlier than we planned."

 Chapter 16 - Contract with a King

    The next day in an undisclosed location, Ming Zhao met with his team of trusted researchers, engineers, and technicians.


    "I presume you have good news for me?" Ming Zhao asked.


    "Yes, boss." Arnold replied.


    Arnold was just a scientist researcher for Zhao company, but Ming Zhao specifically recruited him a long time ago to be his personal genius. He has been the head researcher for Ming Zhao''s personal projects since then. Many of the workers here had been specifically chosen by Ming Zhao and their loyalty is to him only.


    "We don''t have the proper machines to fully confirm the theory but with the technology we currently have, we were able to replicate it on a small scale."


    "It is true that with the mineral and with the correct equation inputted, the energy source is almost as equivalent to nuclear energy."


    "How long will it take to have the correct machines made and proper tools to handle the energy source."


    "We already have the resources, we just need to make it. I would estimate 3-5 months." The head engineer spoke.


    "I want a workable prototype by Grandfather''s birthday, that means you only have three months."


    "Yes boss!" Everyone replied. They hurriedly went back to their work stations and began the next step of the project.


    Secretary Tim drove them back to the city. The weather was nice, but it looked like it was going to rain soon.


    "When we get back, immediately start investing in Shen Industry. I will deal with my Father about the decision." Ming Zhao instructed.


    "Yes sir."


    Ming Zhao opened his phone and took out the pink business card. He could smell the sweet scent coming from it and he softly smiled. He was hesitant to decide if he should text or call her. In the end, he decided to call her. After 6 rings, she finally picked up.


    "Who this?" Lena grumbly answered.


    "Are you not awake?"


    "Who this?"


    "Miss. Shen¡­ It is 3 pm in the afternoon. Are you still asleep?"


    "YAH! I asked who is this not what time it is. I am hanging up." And she hung up.


    Ming Zhao chuckled and called her one for time. Secretary Tim had not seen Ming Zhao so cheerful since his bastard brother appeared. Lena picked up after the first ring.


    "It''s Ming Zhao." Ming Zhao spoke quickly before Lena hung up again.


    "Ohh¡­. This must be about yesterday? Did I get it right?"


    "You did. I will pull in investments by tomorrow."


    "Mhm. Can I go back to sleep now?"


    Ming Zhao sighed. "Yeah."


    She hung up again after the quick reply. Where was the strong businesswoman attitude from her yesterday?


    Lena had not had much sleep the last few nights. She has only been here for a few days and her body and soul are both equally exhausted.


    She cheated the system¡­ and this was probably god''s reason to punish her this morning.


    How did she know the answer to Project Crystal?


    Well, she used a piece of information that she knew from the other world. She was neither a scientist in both worlds, but she came across this solution before. The concept looked very familiar to her when she was skimming through the information on the Zhao family.


    It was a project that Senior Han worked on. On a few occasions, she helped him out on a few project presentations.


    Lena never paid much attention to the details of the project but she got the general idea of it. When she skimmed across the reports, she knew that this report was talking about the project Senior Han was working on.


    In the other world, such a solution already existed but in this world, it did not. Lena wondered what other things are like this? However, she knew that sometimes, you should not interfere with how things are.


    Lena was lucky to have come across this information¡­ or else she would have to resort to dirtier methods. She did not want to bring up the original Lena''s evil heart.


    However, Ming Zhao was only her insurance card. She still needed to hit the real King.

 Chapter 17 - Virtuous Auction

    It was the day of the Annual Charity Event. This was mostly a time for rich people to donate a ridiculous amount of money to several foundations.


    Lena wore a stunning long velvet dress that outlined all the curves on her body. The front has an opening just enough to also showcase her beautiful long legs. Her hair was curled and let loose.


    Lena was tall enough to be a model. Her parents already went to the event beforehand. It was very few occasions that Lena arrived at events with her parents. In the past, she would always arrive with Andy. However, now, she was just taking too much time to pretty herself.


    Just as she expected, the paparazzi were all over the entrance. All the rich folks would be attending this event and it would be missed opportunity to not be here.


    Lena stepped out of her car like a queen. She walked slowly to the building making sure everyone can take a good look at her. Her beautiful long legs walking elegantly and her long dress flowing in sync as she walked.


    "Look, isn''t that Lena Shen? She is as beautiful as ever."


    "Isn''t the Shen Industry failing at the moment?"


    "Didn''t you hear? Zhao Corporation invested them, even investing in more than what Li Company did."


    "What? I heard that Lena Shen went and caused trouble at the Zhao Corporation but that must have been wrong?"


    "Obviously. I don''t know what tricks she used for the Zhao to invest in them but the Shen stocks are rising very fast."


    "But seeing that she is not here with Ming Zhao, then maybe their relationship is not as most expected? Didn''t she just got out of a relationship with Andy?"


    Lena was going to use her first favor card by making Ming Zhao to escort her today but she knew that she needed to avoid the gossips. She only has 5 favors for life, so she should use them wisely.


    After all, her goal today is to make the Li''s to retract their ban.


    Lena arrived a bit late. Most people were already conversing with each other. Lena spot her parents talking to the Zhao''s. Probably small chatter about the new partnership.


    Ming Zhao was nowhere in sight, but she spotted her target in a corner with his friends. Lena smiled.


    "Kris, is it just me or Lena Shen is smiling at us?" Lay hesitantly commented.


    Kris glanced at Lena but she has already turned away and making her way to the refreshment table.


    "Didn''t you say that she will come begging on her knees but here she is, as stunning as ever, and the Shen Industry is booming more?"


    Kris glared at Lay. "I don''t want to hear anything about her. I will make her come crawling to me, that I promise."


    Lay stopped mentioning Lena and anything related to her. Seeing how cold and dark Kris was, he knew that Kris probably planned something bad.


    Lay doesn''t want to know. He was just a happy party boy.


    ------------------------------------------------------------


    "Hello, ladies and gentlemen. It is time for our annual auctioning. As you all know, every item here in the auction are donations and the money from the auction will go to several foundations." the keynote speaker, Abby, announced.


    People began sitting down. Lena walked towards where her parents were and sat down with them. She silently nodded her head to greet the Zhao''s because the event was starting.


    "We welcome Mr. Kris Li to introduce the first that will be auctioned."


    The audience clapped as Kris went up to the stage. The auction was not just a normal way to "donate" items but also a time for big companies to introduce their product and fame.


    The auction also brings a little competition for the rich to flex their money and wealth.


    "Thank you. The first item is the painting "A Thousand Blossom" painted by Gu Shang Wei. The starting bid is 1 million."


    Gu Shang Wei was a famous general and after retirement, painted 8 artwork. In the end, it auctioned for over 6 million yuan.


    Kris walked off the stage and went back to sit with his mother. His mother smiled at her proud son.


    A few more items were auctioned before it was Lena''s turn.


    "For the next item, we have Miss. Lena Shen."


    Lena stood up and elegantly walked up to the stage.


    "Thank you. I am pleased to be here today to introduce such a monumental piece of jewelry and history. The item for auction is part of Empress Wu Zetian''s set of jewelry that Emperor Taizong gifted to her, the virtuous necklace."


    When Lena introduced the item, Madam Li''s eye lite up. She slowly caressed the ring on her finger, which was also an item part of the set. Her husband gifted her this ring on their 10th anniversary.


    She had then wanted to collect the entire set. She had no idea that the Shen family had had such an item.


    Even without her uttering a word, Kris knew that his mother wanted this item. He stared back on stage to be greeted with a small smirk on Lena''s face.


    ''What is this woman up to?''


    "The starting bid is 2 million."


    "2 million." Someone bid.


    "2.5 million." Kris spoke.


    "3 million."


    "6 million."


    "12 million."


    "25 million."


    The other person stopped. 25 million was over his budget.


    "25 million. Going once, twice ---"


    "30 million." A voice spoke.


    Everyone turned to the sound of the voice. Lena stopped smiling.

 Chapter 18 - Jealous Eyes

    ''What is he doing? Is he trying to ruin her plan?'' Lena was not very happy.


    Ming Zhao was just watching the bid go for a while in the back since he arrived late, but seeing that Lena was up to something, he decided to have some fun too.


    "40 million." Kris spoke.


    "50 million."


    ''Damn this man!'' Kris was running out of patience.


    "100 million." A few seconds pass.


    "Mr. Zhao, are you gonna bid?" Abby asked. Ming Zhao shook his head and smiled.


    "100 million going once¡­ twice¡­ and sold to Mr. Kris Li."


    The audience mouth dropped. These two kings really know how to spend their money and flex their wealth. This year''s foundations are lucky to have such donations.


    More items were auctioned and at the end, it was a time for foundations leaders to be thankful to all the people who attended the event.


    The after party started as the music played and people began chatting again.


    "I didn''t know you have such a beautiful and outstanding daughter." CEO Zhao spoke to Shen Mao.


    "Nice to meet you, CEO Zhao and Madam Zhao. Excuse my tardiness that I was not able to greet you before." Lena bowed respectively as she greeted them.


    "Ah, how sweet of you. I am more embarrassed for my son arriving the latest." Madam Zhao smiled as she stared at her son who was walking their way.


    Ming Zhao walked over and greeted everyone.


    "Ming-Er, why don''t you invite Miss. Shen to dance with you while the adults talk some more hmm?"


    Ming Zhao turned over to Lena and held out his hand. "May I invite you for a dance?"


    Lena wanted to deny, but with everyone here, she just smiled and went with him.


    As they both walked to the dance floor, many people were staring at them. Their aura and cuteness were heavenly blinding.


    "Is it just me or Lena Shen looks better with Ming Zhao than Andy Yang?"


    "I was just thinking the same!"


    Lena kept her smile as she put her arms on his shoulder and him, putting his on her waist.


    "You really know how to put up that face." Ming Zhao snarked up a comment.


    "Of course. I am very much a talented woman."


    "Heh¡­ you should have seen your face when I bid on that necklace."


    Lena finally turned to look at him instead of the crowd. Her eyes were fierce but her smile was still as confident as usual.


    "Tsk¡­ no matter who got the item, I only put the item into auctioned to catch a mouse."


    "A mouse? Are you sure you are not catching a tiger instead?"


    "Hah¡­ whether a mouse or tiger, I will capture them all. Unlike you¡­ you have so many flies around you."


    Lena stared back at the crowd at all the jealous woman staring at them.


    "She stole Andy from us and now she wants to steal Ming. Despicable woman."


    "Remember too that she kissed Kris! She cannot stay with one man?!"


    But what really surprised Lena''s eye was how Eva looked at them. She knew those looks in her eye... Because she had those exact eyes when she looked at Eva and Andy.


    What Lena could not really understand was that Eva is madly in love with Andy, why is she jealous of Lena and Ming dancing?


    Lena looked back at Ming Zhao who doesn''t seem to be enjoying the dance nor paying attention to the crowd.


    ''Could it be that Ming Zhao the second lead, not Kris? Interesting¡­''


    Just then, Lena also caught a glimpse of her "mouse." She turned her attention back to Ming Zhao, tightened her arms around his neck for a more intimate pose.


    "I have spotted my mouse, now you be a good boy aye?" She quickly went close for a peck on his cheeks then loosen her arms and swiftly left the dancing floor before the music ended.


    Only the young women who were continuously staring at them saw that. And obviously, such a move did not escape the keen eyes of a certain man.


    "What was that?" Ming Zhao mumbled to himself as he was left alone. He rubbed the area where she kissed him. "Aish¡­ I need a drink.

 Chapter 19 - Old People Gossips

    Lena spotted Madam Li talking to a bunch of older ladies. Lena went instead inserted herself into a conversation between some other Madams in a different conversation, but close enough to her "mouse".


    "Greeting, I am glad to see you all enjoying your evening today." Lena greeted them.


    "Ah.. Miss. Shen. I am sad that I was not able to bid for that necklace tonight. Such a big loss." Madam Su replied.


    "It is alright. The other pieces of jewelry set will be auctioned next week for the launch Shyne''s new seasonal jewelry collection."


    Lena made sure she spoke loud enough. And just as she thought, Madam Li ears caught the statement and her eyes lit up.


    "Oh, yes you are correct. I did receive an invitation."


    "I received one too! I''ll be sure to attend and Shyne always has the best-released jewelry for us older ladies." Madam Huang spoke.


    The group laughed. Shyne is the jewelry brand that the Shen Industry owns. Shyne jewelry mainly focused on extensive and fancy jewelry.


    They also restore and conserve much ancient jewelry such as the "Virtuous Set."


    "Your families have been supporting the Shen business for a long time. Thank you."


    "Your father is lucky to have such an intelligent daughter like you. With you, the Shen Industry will continue to thrive."


    "Thank you." Lena smiled.


    With that, Lena made up a reason to excuse herself from the conversation.


    Madam Li smiled and walked in to talk with the ladies. Of course, they were all ecstatic to talk to the high and mighty Madam Li.


    "Hello, Madam Li." Madam Su greeted her.


    "Congratulations on winning the Virtuous Necklace, it suits your ring so well too."


    "I am thankful to have a son who loves me." She smiled approvingly.


    "Will you be at the Shyne''s seasonal opening for? The Virtuous Earrings and Hairpin that will be auctioned."


    "I did not hear about such auction." Madam Li replied as if she did not eavesdrop their conversations before.


    "You must have gotten an invitation. You are the Madam Li after all." Madam Su replied.


    "Hmm¡­ The Li Group did retract business from the Shen a few days ago. Maybe that is the reason you have not heard about it."


    "Maybe that is it." Madam Li suddenly realized the reason why she, the great Queen, had not received an invitation.


    "Do not worry much. I heard it is just some childish feelings among the younglings."


    "What do you mean?"


    "I do not know much. But I heard from my daughter that Mr. Li was very intimate with Miss. Shen at a birthday party."


    This was the first time Madam Li heard about her son being intimate with another lady. That is impossible! Isn''t it?


    "What do you mean?" She asked.


    "Well, Miss. Shen must have been heartbroken when the young Mr. Yang broke off their engagement. You know that Miss. Shen is a very proper and smart woman, knowing that she is single, many men must have approached her. Does your son not have feelings for such a lady?"


    Madam Li pondered a bit. She would definitely know if Kris had feelings for a girl. Afterall¡­ he is...


    "You think my son like Miss. Shen?" She asked, even more curious.


    ''Is this the reason he has not been being home lately. And when she asked his secretary, he said that Kris has been drinking a lot more.''


    "I do not know for sure. But seeing that people said they were intimate one day and then the next day, Shen Industry was banned from the Li Group. And then today she was dancing with the young Mr. Zhao. He was also at the party. Isn''t obvious that she likes the young Mr. Zhao instead?"


    Clueless to the young people, the adults'' gossip was on a whole different level. Because Kris Li made sure the news on the kiss did not spread too much, a lot of people do not know. Only mostly the young people of the generation know about the real juice.


    With that, the old people only heard snippets of the news and in the end, this was what they were spreading about.


    "Do you think they would engage the two young ones soon? After all, their business partnership will just strengthen and improve from the relationship?"


    "What are you going off about?! Isn''t the young Mr. Li more suited for Miss. Shen? The dance is just formal between the two companies. What lady denies such a handsome man the young Mr. Li?"


    Madam Huang interrupted Madam Su because Madam Li looked like she was not satisfied knowing that her son was rejected.


    Madam Li excused herself to find her son. She needs to ask him some questions.

 Chapter 20 - A Mothers Love

    Madam Li was overwhelmed by all the news that she felt light-hearted. She had no luck trying to look for her son. Feeling tired, she left the party early and decided to wait for him at home instead.


    Kris was notified that her mother left the party early but he continued to stay. He was one of the biggest donators and it would look bad to leave early. He never liked these types of occasions, but it was part of his responsibility.


    When he got home, he did not expect her to be still awake when he got home.


    "So, you are finally home huh?" She looked up to see him walking to her.


    Kris felt like something was off about the atmosphere. His mother was sitting on the sofa, patiently waiting for him.


    "What are you waiting for? Sit down. I need to talk to you."


    Kris took off his outer suit, set it on the side of the sofa as he sat across from her.


    "Why are you still awake? Are you not feeling well?" He asked.


    "Of course I am not well. I am getting older each day and you are still not bringing home any grandchildren."


    "Mom¡­" Kris softened his voice.


    Madam Li stood up to sat next to Kris. With solemn eyes, she stared at her son.


    She got into an accident when Kris was just 5 years old. It was a drunk driver who crashed into her car when she was coming back home from a trip.


    The driver died at the scene and she was put into a coma for 8 years. The doctors said that she will most likely never wake up, but the Li family was rich so they continue her treatment and hope that one day she would wake up.


    After 8 years, she finally woke up. Many things had happened by then. But most of all, her sweet little son was no longer a child but a grown man. She was happy to see her son strong and handsome like her husband.


    However, she later found out about the condition of Kris. And that was that he would rage and be very aggressive whenever a touched by a woman.


    It hurt her that she cannot hug her son and give him the love of a real mother that he missed for 8 years. She had pressured her husband and his family to tell her what happened to her son. However, they kept it very secretive from her. She knew that it was the probably the Li family that did something to her sweet child.


    She pushed hard for Kris to go into therapy and he had made progress as he continued to grow up. But even so, till today, Kris still despise the touch of a woman, she included. She hoped that if Kris felt the attraction of a woman, he will start not despising the touch of a woman.


    When her husband died 3 years ago, Kris took full control of the Li conglomerate. It was another traumatic moment for both of them. Madam Li did not want Kris to take over such a business since he was still going through his own trauma, but she knew that it was partly her fault. She only gave birth to one child, and she loved him dearly.


    Just thinking back on all of this, Madam Li became teary but she quickly smiled instead. She must be strong for both of them.


    "Am I being too much of a nagging mother?"


    Kris smiled as his mother''s mood lightened up too. "You can nag me as much as you want. You are my mother."


    "Then I do have something I want to ask you for."


    "Hmm?"


    "I want you to retract your ban on the Shen Industry."


    Kris was a bit astonished. Was this what Lena Shen planned by auctioning the necklace? Was it to get on the good side of his mother? His eyes turned deadly and the temperature of the room dropped cold.


    "You need to stop playing hard to get and be softer or all of the girls will run away from you." Madam Li interrupted his moment of killing intentions.


    "I will do as you say."


    "Ah? Also, be sure I am invited to the SHYNE opening ceremony."


    "Is that all?"


    "En. And by the way, I will stop forcing you to meet girls now. If I want you to be soft on others too, I should be softer on you too." Madam Li knew that pushing him too much may not be good. So for now, she will let time be the leader.


    "It''s late, you should go to bed." Kris gestured for one of the workers to take his mother to bed.


    "Kris¡­ I love you."


    "I love you too, Mom."


    Kris smiled as his mother went to her room. He looked at his hands and his heart felt stressed. He loved no one more than his mother, but why is it that he can''t touch her too? He does not dispised her nor fear her... why?


    His hands folded into a fist as his anger and killer eyes returns.


    ''Looks like I have underestimated you, Lena Shen.''

 Chapter 21 - You have a visitor

    The last few days had been very relaxing for Lena and her family. The Li did reestablish their business with the Shen Industry and again, their stock rose.


    Her father was really proud of her and fully allowed her to take over one of the Jewelry Branches, SHYNE. Shen Mao said that it was a good position for her to build and help her mother manage the companies.


    Lena will be in the office tomorrow so today was the only day she can be lazy. It was a hot and beautiful day. Lena was wearing a coral blue two-piece swimsuit out by the pool deck. She was drinking some cool margarita and secretly watching romance dramas on her tablet.


    She was recently intrigued by this world''s version of entertainment. She had watched every single romance drama in her world, but here, she had a whole new closet to explore! Lena was reminiscing about her life.


    "Young Miss, you have a visitor."


    "Hmm?" Lena looked up from her tablet. She was so into the drama that she did not hear Aunt Mary approaching her. She took off her earphones.


    ''Visitor? Lena never gets a visitor anymore. She broke off her fake friendships since the breakup with Andy. She did not need those fake people around her. She was fake enough...


    "Who is it? Are you sure it is not for my parents?" She took a sip from her drink, her eyes glued back the tablet.


    "He specifically said your name."


    "He?"


    Lena put down her tablet, grabbed her coverup and put it on. ''Gary didn''t notify me before he came over. Was it an emergency?''


    "Young Miss, I think you should get change before visiting your guest."


    "No need. He is my friend." Lena smiled and walked to the living area.


    Lena was hummingly walking and skipping. But she stopped dead when she stared at a man that was definitely not Gary.


    "What honor do I have for the great Mr. Li to visit me?" Lena stopped smiling.


    Kris looked up to Lena. He stared at her a bit, scrutinizing what she was wearing.


    "Is this how you greet your distinguish guest?"


    "Oh please, whether I am butt naked or in 15 layers of clothes, it wouldn''t trigger you a bit, isn''t that right?"


    "Young Miss!" Aunt Mary scolded her.


    "It''s fine, isn''t it?" Lena smiled at Kris and he didn''t respond. Lena dismissed the workers so they can peacefully chat as she sat down across from Kris.


    "What brings you here on this fine day?" She asked.


    "You really have no fear, Lena Shen. Do you think that you can bribe my mother and our problems will disappear?"


    "Ah¡­ so it is about your mother."


    "Don''t say it as you know her."


    "Kris¡­ or Mr. Li. What should I call you? Mr. Li makes me feel like I am talking to my dad so I''ll just call you Kris."


    Kris knew that this woman irritated him so much and he prepared to be calm¡­ but she dared speak so openly.


    "You started this you know? I only kissed you. You should be happy you got kissed by me. Honestly, it was a good kiss too! And I only kissed you because you were the most handsome man there. That''s a compliment!"


    A quick flash of the memory on the kiss passed his mind and his irritation died a bit as a new sudden of emotion flooded him. He slightly blushed without him knowing.


    Lena noticed his change in behavior and was surprised.


    "Don''t tell me¡­ that... that it was your first kiss?!"


    "Nonsense." He blurted.


    "Really? Ah.. good then. I would have been guilty to steal a man''s first kiss like that. Phew."


    "You really have no filter on your mouth, do you? Have you never heard about what happened to other women who dare do such things to me¡­"


    "What? You mean the rumors of you killing them? Or cutting off their hands?" Lena burst into laughter. "Haah¡­ you expect me to believe that¡­ I mean--" Lena suddenly stopped as the look on Kris did really looked like he could kill her. She gulped.


    "You mean¡­. All those things... Are true?" Her eyes widened and she composed her body.


    Kris did not reply and instead just smirked. ''So this woman do know fear.'' Somehow, her reaction now was somewhat cute?


    "I am curious though." Lena''s face suddenly turned into a little kid who is innocent. "How serious is this¡­ disease of yours?" She pointed a finger at him.


    The temperature of the room dropped and Lena suddenly felt a deadly chill down her spine. She was only wearing her swimsuit and a thin silk cover-up¡­ She shivered a bit. Today was a warm day though... how can it be cold in here?


    "I am only asking so I know for the future¡­" She lucked out to muttered that part.


    "It is not a disease."


    "Ok¡­ So can I poke you?" No response. She''ll take that as a no.


    Lena pushed her body back to the sofa and sighed. "I feel sad for you mom." Lena continued.


    Kris softened his look and stared at Lena as if wanting her to continue.


    "Look here. Every family would want their son to get married and have kids¡­ and look at you¡­ you can''t even.. Yeah. UNLESS¡­" Lena''s gasped and her eyes widened. "Do you like men instead?"


    Kris threw a biscuit at Lena and it let a few crumbs on her hair. "AH.."


    "I am really thinking if I should drown you in your own pool right now." Kris threatened her.


    "You are a beast! A handsome big meany bad guy!"


    Lena threw the biscuit back at Kris and hit him in the head. He was not expecting her to be so stubborn.


    "You--!"


    With an impulse, Kris suddenly stood up and grabbed her hair. He tugged it hard and Lena yelped. However, she suddenly jumped on Kris, legs around his waist and both hands on his hair and pulled it too.


    Her weight pushed both of them to Kris''s side of the sofa. Kris grabbed her thighs and tugged it off him. It was really painful but instead, Lena bent down to his neck and bit it really hard. He grunted at the pain.


    ''WTF this woman is a ---''


    *Crash*


    Both of them stopped and looked at the entrance where Aunt Mary was standing, with a tray of refreshments and drinks toppled down the floor. They have forgotten where they were...

 Chapter 22 - Sexy Bite Mark

    "I uh-- I''ll clean that later." Aunt Mary quickly excused herself.


    ''What did she just see? Were the rumors about those two being intimate in the past true?''


    Kris suddenly realized the position they were in. Lena was straddled on top of him and his hands on her bare legs. Just before, her hands were still on his head and when she bit his neck¡­ it must have looked like they were¡­


    He suddenly flopped Lena down the ground. Lena screeched a bit but before she could even sit up, Kris was already gone.


    "That bastard!" She threw the entire plate of biscuits onto the ground. She was going to scramble back to her room but stumbled.


    She looked down her legs and saw two big red handprints right on her thighs where Kris grabbed to push her legs off him. ''Ah.. it hurts..''


    --------------------------------------


    Collin was just sitting in the car texting his girlfriend when he suddenly heard the car door opened and jammed closed, causing the car to shake.


    "Boss!"


    "Drive!!" Kris shouted.


    Collin quickly started the car. Why is it that every time he dropped his boss off and he comes back, he is in a worse condition? ''What did you do this time Miss Shen?''


    Kris was so angry in the back of the car. He took out sanitizing wipes and cleaned his hands. He took off his tie and unbuttoned a few of his buttons to cool off.


    Why does he feel so hot? His mind suddenly wondered to the moment Lena jumped onto him. Her coverup fully opened up, exposing her flawless white skin. Her smooth long legs were tightly wrapped around him his waist. And when they fell back onto the sofa, her body was all over him. He could feel her breasts settling on his chest and her cool breath before she bit him.


    He shook his head. And his anger appeared again.


    "Why are you driving so slow!"


    "Boss, you didn''t tell me where to go."


    "To Red Moon!!"


    ''Wuuuuuuu! His boss is going back to Red Moon. For sure Madam Li will know about it again and yell at me.'' Collin stepped on the gas and sped all the way to the club.


    Before the car even made a complete stop, Kris already opened the door and head into the club. He quickly went up to his private room.


    All the woman saw how HOT Kris was. His hair was messy and his shirt was semi opened. But what astonished them all was that swollen red bite mark on his neck.


    Lay heard the news that Kris arrived and he quickly went to greet the buddy. He opened the door to see Kris already drinking himself down. What his men told him was correct?! Kris does have a bite mark on him?


    "Who gave you that sexy bite mark huh buddy?" Lay aloofly asked.


    Kris stopped and touched the pain he was feeling on his neck. Ah yeah¡­ that damn b*tch did bite him. Kris suddenly threw the bottle at Lay but he quickly dodged it. The bottle crashed into the door and shattered.


    Lay gulped. He has not seen Kris angry like this for a long time. The last time was when a pop star name Lily accidentally tripped onto Kris. All he knew was that Kris did something bad to her and she had to go get plastic surgery and spend her last 6 months abroad.


    "I want that b*tch dead!"


    "Wh...Who?" Lay was scared to ask.


    "Lena Shen."


    Lena Shen? Why is it her again? Lay was too scared to ask about the details.


    "I can get my men to do the job."


    "Good."


    "Do you want it soon? Or after the opening ceremony?" Lay asked. He knew that Madam Li had been looking forward to the ceremony hence why Kris re-established the relationship with Shen Industry.


    "As soon as possible."


    "Right away."


    Kris got up. He needed a shower now that he had his drink. He paused at the door just as an idea popped into his mind.


    "Scratch that. Don''t use our men, it is wasteful to use such resources on her. Spread new to the underground world. I want her alive but immobile. I want to be able to stare at her fearful face."

 Chapter 23 - Her First Day

    The next morning, Lena woke up with huge bruises on her leg. Although there was less pain than she had yesterday, she wore pants today just to make sure no one saw the marks.


    Her father would turn the world upside down if he knew what happened. Luckily, Aunt Mary seem to not have said anything about what happened yesterday.


    Today, she also did not take her Rose, and instead had someone drive her. Her Father had assign Lena a driver and bodyguard since she is fully entering the ugly world of business.


    Her mother arrange a secretary for her which would meet her at the company today.


    Today was her first day at SHYNE. She planned to arrive early but instead spent too much time on her looks this morning. By the time she arrived, it was already 9 am.


    She walked into the building and everyone stopped abit and stare at her. She was wearing a professional woman attire. She was not in her bring colors nor wearing a dress like she usually would. Her hair was also tied up.


    Everyone was stunned abit at Lena''s new look. She looked very mature, resembling much of her mother.


    They greeted her as she walked to the elevator with her bodyguard with her. She arrived to her office and was greeted by a young lady.


    "Hello Miss. Shen. I am Diane, your personal assistant."


    Lena shook her hands. Diane had a strong handshake. Many people say that you can tell a lot from a person how they shake your hand.


    "Nice to meet you. This here ---" Lena turned to her bodyguard. "Oh my¡­ I didn''t even get your name today."


    The man showed no emotions. "James." He bowed abit.


    "Ah.. James. He''s my bodyguard. I assume my Father mentioned about this?"


    "Yes, Miss. We have his area set up."


    James went into his work area. His area included several cctv and all access to the building security information.


    Lena walked into her office. She stopped and looked around the room a bit. Everything was very simple. She would need to redecorate it later.


    She sat down on her desk and Diane hand her a few files.


    "These are several assignment that Mrs. Milli passed over to you. She said that for the first term, your projects will be chosen by her. Based on your progress, the next term you can choose your own."


    "I understand. I can look at them myself, you can leave."


    Diane left and Lena sighs at the work in front of her. She has not even started, and she was already bored. Did she get serious too quick? Should she have more fun and spoil before she spent the rest of her life like this?


    Lena grabbed the first file. It was the information on the SHYNE spring jewelry opening ceremony. She was planned this event well so she did not spend much time looking at it.


    Next, it was a project regarding shipments of some pink diamond with their supplier.


    Finally, Lena opened the third file and smiled.


    She should have assumed that her mother would throw something challenging her way.


    The third project was designing the wedding rings for Eva and Andy''s engagement. Lena knew right away that this was to test her between personal and business emotions.


    Lena buzzed for Diane.


    "Yes, Miss. Shen?"


    "Call Eva Wu and make an appointment for tomorrow so we can discuss her designs for the rings."


    "Aright."


    Lena sat down and started putting in some jewelry designs. Because her thoughts are mixed of hers and the old Lena, she took advantage of "stealing" some designs from her world mixing it into Lena''s talent for art.


    Although drawing was never her strong points in being a Graphic Designer, somehow, she enjoyed doing this. Ideas just kept flowing into her mind one after another. She was so focused on her work that she forgot about lunch.

 Chapter 24 - Mike Zhao

    Diane saw that Lena was very focused so she only brought her some light snacks.


    *Bzzzz*


    Lena''s phone vibrated. It woke her up from her concentration. It was Gary texting her. She decided to call him instead.


    "Lena?" Gary answered.


    "Hmm? What is the emergency? You are always interrupting me."


    "A red alert."


    "Red what? I don''t speak geek language."


    "You promised to take me shopping but it has been a very long time."


    "....."


    "Are you free tomorrow?"


    "I can''t. I am officially working at SHYNE now so I am not as free anymore."


    "You are working?"


    "What? Do you think I can''t work?"


    "No¡­ then how about lunch?"


    "I can tomorrow."


    "En."


    She hung up the call and plop her head down on her desk. She was just thinking about some stuff while relaxing. Before she knew it, she was already sleeping on her desk.


    Diane came to check on her to update her about the appointment with Miss. Wu but decided to delay it. Lena was sleeping so soundlessly that she did not want to interrupt her.


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------


    Ming Zhao left his office early because tonight they were having a family dinner. His grandparents will be there and his new older brother too.


    He had a place of his own that he spent most of his time alone, but his mother has not been in the best condition lately so he had been going home often.


    By the time he arrived at the mansion, his grandfather was already cheerfully conversing with his older brother, Mike.


    Ming Zhao greeted the elders and his parents. He went to his room to change into something comfortable before heading down. Everyone was already sitting at the dining table waiting for him.


    "I am so glad that everyone is here. I hope that you are feeling comfortable in your new home, Mike?" Elder Zhao spoke.


    "I am, thank you." Mike replied with a smile.


    "My birthday is in less than 3 months. It is too long to introduce you by then. I have talked to your father and we will introduce you to the public in two weeks time. That will also allow you to settle down and prepare to enter the company."


    Mike nodded, showing no emotions of joy or fear.


    Elder Zhao continued talking more. "Ming Zhao is currently acting CEO while Lin Zhao (Ming''s dad) is on break. In two weeks, Lin Zhao will return and both of you will be helping him run the company."


    Elder Zhao was being careful to not mention anything about the next CEO position. Although he is a very traditional man and Mike Zhao seems like a nice gentleman, he also needs to be able to run the Zhao Corporation.


    Elder Zhao had done a background check on Mike Zhao and so far he seems fine as the next heir. For such an old and traditional man, he values kinship and bloodline very high.


    Ming Zhao just ate dinner and put on the mask of a loving younger brother. His grandfather never really favor nor expected a lot from him. Ming Zhao was someone who was very kind-hearted. Although he often is strict and stern, his grandfather always say that his heart is too soft.


    If they are planning to introduce Mike Zhao to the public soon, then Ming Zhao would need to plan for that too.


    After dinner, Ming Zhao head to his room to make a call.


    "Tim."


    "Yes, Boss?" Secretary Tim answered.


    "How is that task I gave you?"


    "Very well. I reconfirmed the DNA test and he is indeed your father''s son. However, the deep background check made several discoveries."


    "Go on."


    "It took awhile but the security team was able to dig up some info that Mike Zhao must have paid a lot to hide. According to the information, Mike Zhao is currently married with a 3 year old son. He hid and left them abroad and haven''t gotten in contact with them for a year now."


    Tim continued. "The wife is currently looking for him because their son needs a kidney transplant and he is a matched donor."


    "Do you know where they are now?"


    "Yes. What would you like me to do?"


    "Bring them back to China discreetly and treat the boy. I will have later use for them."


    "I understand."


    "How is Arnold doing on his assignment?"


    "Miss. Shen will be delivering the first batch of minerals in a week''s time. The prototype machine development is looking great so far. It will be about 1 month before we can confirm the completion of it."


    "Great. Make sure my Father or grandfather have no clues on this. I will see you tomorrow in the office then."


    "Goodnight boss."

 Chapter 25 - Personal Invitation

    Ming Zhao knew that his brother who appeared from nowhere had a record too clean. No doubt that this man was smart and manipulative, but Ming Zhao grew up trained for a war that has no room for a man like Mike Zhao.


    Although his grandfather was quick to accept the man because he seem like a crafty and strong businessman, Ming Zhao knew that it was just the mask Mike was putting up. Ming Zhao will be the man to pull that fake mask his.


    Ming Zhao just needed to be patient and play his cards correctly. After all, he already has an ace card¡­ little Miss. Lena Shen.


    -------------------------------


    Lena was up bright and early the next morning. She had to prepare and look great in her meeting with Eva today. She was still wearing long pants because the bruise was still visible.


    She was at the office by 7:30 am and already emotionally prepared for the day.


    "MIss Shen, Miss Eva has arrived."


    "Good, you can tell her to come in."


    Eva entered the office. Today she was alone without her bodyguards. She wore a nice floral dress and some low heels.


    "Hello, Miss. Wu, please take a seat." Lena greeted her.


    Eva was a bit astonished by Lena''s look and mannerisms. Eva already knew that she would be meeting up with Lena today but she had expected a feisty woman.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen. Thank you for accepting this proposal. Andy wanted the best for our rings."


    "Any great man would want the best. And you are correct, I am the best woman for this job." Lena smiled to where Eva awkwardly smiled back.


    "I took a look at the pre-design you submitted. As much as it is a very delicate ring that you want, I think it lacks some details and depths. I made three additional designs based on the original to see if they are to your liking."


    Eva was a simple woman so her first design of the rings was simple too. Although these were just engagement rings, she and Andy wanted them to be custom and made towards their love. Each step in their story must be remembered.


    Eva took the three designs and looked at them. It is true that compared to the initial design she submitted, Lena''s was more detailed. She looked at the design for Andy''s ring and was stunned.


    Every detail about the ring was designed with such a technique that with a glance, one would know that this ring was designed for Andy and his character.


    No surprise though for her, Eva knew that Lena probably knew more about Andy than she does. And this did not make her feel any more confident than when she walked in. Lena might know Andy more but for sure she loves him more than Lena ever did.


    "Are the designs not to your liking?"


    "Ah¡­ um.. No. They are perfect. I think I like set #2 the most."


    "I see. Let''s talk about the minor details then. You have also requested an engravement on the rings."


    "Yes."


    "Do you want them embedded on the ring itself or inside the diamond?"


    "Inside the diamond?"


    "Yes¡­ It is quite a popular trend lately. It is on the higher end on cost but this technique is very essential. When looking at the ring, you can see the engraved initials. The engravement will be very small but the diamond itself will zoom in the engravement making it readable."


    "I have never heard of such a design."


    "I understand. This technique is only known and used by the Shen Industry. It is a technique and procedure copyrighted to us only."


    " I see, then let''s have it like that then."


    "Great. Now is there anything else?"


    "Eh¡­ I don''t think so?"


    "If not then, I appreciate you coming in to discuss more details about the rings. I will call you back when we have them completed."


    Lena stood up to placed the designs on her desk.


    "Miss. Shen?" Eva quietly called her.


    Lena turned back to see Eva handing her a card which looked like an invitation.


    "I already senT an invitation to the Shen Family, but I wanted to give one personally to you."


    Lena smiled and took the invitation.


    "I know that it might be difficult for you to attend the event but it would mean a lot for Andy to have you there. After all, you are both childhood friends."


    "I''ll be sure to attend the event."


    Eva was happy that Lena took the invitation without any concerns. She was however too innocent to see the sly smile on Lena.

 Chapter 26 - Lunch Date

    When Eva left, Lena slouched on her chair. Her mind was completely over Andy but it seems like the old Lena still has strong lingering feelings for the man. Her heart was feeling sad and lonely.


    Lena never got a chance to actually fall in love and she is already experiencing a heartache. Lena''s sly smile at Eva not because she was planning anything for the youngcouple¡­ but she knew that other jealous women will.


    When she was with Andy, she fought away all those pests and no one was able to match her fierce and beauty. However, with Eva¡­. Lena pity the young maiden.


    The best solution to get over a broken heart is to find new love. But so far, Lena had not been successful. Her first attempt, she clashed with the devil. Does she dare try again?


    OBVIOUSLY! She is Lena Shen, a bold stubborn woman.


    Well, her meeting was over and it is time for her lunch date.


    What surprised her on her lunch date was not that Gary dressed more handsome, but the location where they were having lunch.


    Lena was dressed in a black business attire with some high heels. She was standing with Gary on a busy street somewhere. The area was filled with people because it was the lunch rush.


    "Do¡­ you expect me to eat here?" Lena pointed at the street full of street vendors and food carts.


    "What? You said that you will eat anything. Are you backing out now?"


    "I didn''t say that." Gary didn''t know, but Lena was internally in nirvana. She had been eating expensive and lavished meals since she came here. MY GOD, she missed the smell of grease and freshly grilled meat.


    Gary led Lena to a stall that he was a regular at. He enjoyed eating the food here because it holds a lot of memories for him. He wanted Lena to be with these memories too.


    As they sat down, the Aunty came to get their order.


    "Ah Gary? You are here again!" She then glanced at Lena who sweetly smiled back. "And you brought a beautiful woman with you aye?"


    Gary blushed. "She is--"


    "We are just friends." Lena replied quickly.


    "Friends. Well, Gary is such a nice man. He is such a successful man now but still support us in our business. For such a beautiful lady like you, I will give you 50% off today." The aunty said.


    They both ordered and she left. Lena then burst into a small laugh.


    "I didn''t know you were so successful¡­"


    "Hey! Stop laughing. I did finish college ok? And I have a job."


    "Job? The jobs I give you?"


    "You have a job. I can have a job too."


    "Ok ok. I will stop making fun of you."


    Gary was happy that Lena didn''t throw a fit about this. She seemed like she was enjoying the time too. His eyes were glued to her happiness and his heart is non-stop pounding. He took a big drink of cold water.


    "By the way¡­ Do you have a stalker?" Gary suddenly asked.


    "Stalker?"


    "Yeah¡­ 10''o o''clock behind me."


    Lena poked her head out and stare where Gary mentioned. She saw James sitting at a table by himself in a different area.


    "He has been following us for a while now." Gary added.


    "Oh. He''s my bodyguard. I told him I was going out a lot so he should wear more casual clothes and stop being so obvious."


    "Bodyguard?"


    "Yeah. A person who guards you. A bullet shield? You know?"


    "I know what a bodyguard is!"


    "Don''t mind him. My dad thinks it is best for me to have one."


    "I agree." -- But I don''t like another man hanging around you - was what Gary wanted to say but didn''t.


    The food arrived hot and fresh. Lena spoiled herself and ate a lot. She often disregarded her manners when she is with Gary.


    Seeing her so famish, Gary dished a few things to her plate. He had hope that she would do the same but nope. But it is alright, seeing her so different makes him happy.


    After their lunch, Gary sent Lena back to her car. She still had to go back to the company so she could not stay long.


    James was already waiting inside the car for her.


    "Thank you for lunch. We should do this more often!" Lena thanked him. She turned and open the door to the car herself. She was about to get in when Gary suddenly grabbed her wrist.


    Lena spun around and stared at him. James was alerted but stood seated.


    "I---" Gary was going to say something but he saw James glaring at him like a wolf. C''mon man¡­ all he did was hold her wrist. He quickly let go of her hand.


    Gary also shut the car door so James wouldn''t hear what he was going to say. He didn''t need more embarrassment and pressure, he was already sweating from this.


    "What is it?" Lena asked.


    "There¡­ event...come." Gary mumbled. He couldn''t get the words out properly.


    ''AHHHH... It''s not even like you are asking her on a date. It''s just an event!'' Gary scolded himself.


    "You have to speak up." Lena interrupted his thought process.


    Gary suddenly pulled out a ticket and slammed it into Lena''s hand. "The Championship Gaming event after your SHYNE opening event. I want you to attend it and come to see me. No one ever comes to see me and you are my friend so you need to support me like I support your shopping sprees."


    Gary spoke everything so fast but Lena was able to understand what he was saying.


    "En. I''ll be sure to come to see you. Promise." She smiled.

 Chapter 27 - Opening Ceremony

    Lena spent the last few days arranging the perfect opening event for SHYNE. The project was originally handled by her mother but when it passed to her, she took advantage of her dual skills to make the event something extravagant.


    She also made sure that her "mouse" will also be attending. She must put up a good show if she wanted to continue having Madame Li on her good side in case she ever ran into trouble with the devil again.


    Finally, the day had arrived. The event was only a short opening ceremony. There will be a fashion show, auction, then a small party after the event. Lena already made sure that she will be out of the event to make it in time for Gary''s event.


    In the past, Lena had never paid any attention to Gary. But the current her felt like she owed some friendship kudos to support Gary. After all the things that he had done for her, ugly or nice, he was one of the few people who stayed and supported her regardless of her situation.


    She knew that Gary was a friend to keep forever.


    For today''s event, Lena wore a long red velvet dress. She was also wearing a pearl necklace with matching earrings. As the host, it was also her job to showcase SHYNE jewelry.


    She was at the entrance greeting guests as they arrive at the event. Most of them were women.


    "You are very pretty today, Miss. Shen."


    "Thank you. You are lovely as always too, Madam Li."


    Lena greeted Madam Li, who was dressed in a beautiful golden qipao. She also wore her Virtuous necklace and ring today.


    "I look forward to the new selections and the auction."


    "We are happy to have you here supporting our partnership." Lena smiled.


    After spending more time greeting guests, it was time to start the fashion show. Lena stood up tall and beautiful, ready to make the introduction.


    "Welcome everyone to another SYHNE opening ceremony. For this spring, we created jewelry inspired by ancient traditions. Exclusively for this, we also included a collection of both Eastern and Western jewelry fashion."


    The audience was happy. There were several foreign customers who were invited and were glad to see that SHYNE was aiming to hit the international market.


    "As always, you will be able to bid and buy each piece of the jewelry showcased today. The final round of the fashion show will showcase the two items from the Virtuous Set, the bracelet and hairpin. I thank everyone for coming and I hope you all enjoy the rest of the event."


    The crowd applauded and the fashion show began. The fashion show was more successful than Lena had anticipated. Everything showcased and the limited edition items were purchased.


    Her first success must be celebrated. Even though her mother was not able to attend the event, she knew that her mom had close eyes watching her every move.


    Lena looked at the time and she was still a bit early to leave. She had about an hour before heading off to Gary''s event. She decided to stay and talk to people. After all, making connections is very important for the future.


    Lena approached Madam Li.


    "I was glad that you were able to get the other two items of the Virtuous set. I hope they are to your liking." Lena said.


    "Definitely. I never knew the Shen family possessed them. I had spent lots of resources to locate them."


    "My family possess many ancient sets, one of them the Virtuous set. The Shen family may not have royal bloodline like the Li, but our family had designed jewelries for the Royal family since ancient times."


    "By any chance, do you know where the head crown is located?"


    "The head crown was a piece donated to the Historical Museum in City B. My grandmother believed that some pieces should be shown to everyone while others can be kept personally."


    "She is correct. I am happy to know such an item is in a good place."


    "If Madam Li wishes, you can come to visit our ancient jewelry collection sometime."


    "I would love to."


    Lena chatted with Madam Li some more about jewelry and clothing of the ancient time. Lena was not an expert, but Madam Li enjoyed her company.


    Madam Li enjoyed conversing with Lena. She was a smart and strong woman. Is this the woman who her son had been so smitten with?


    "By any chance, do you know my son?" Madam Li asked.


    "Kris Li? I know of him but we are not very close." Lena smiled innocently.


    "Didn''t he come to visit you at your house the other day?"


    Lena coughed. If she was drinking water, she would have choked. How did this woman know?

 Chapter 28 - Madam Lis Assumption

    "He came for business matters assuring that the reconnection between my father''s company and the Li group was on good terms. My father was not home so he left shortly afterward." Lena made a white lie.


    Lena slightly turned red from making such a big lie and covering up what really happened. However, Madam Li saw it as she was blushing.


    Madam Li smiled. ''So she was the one who gave her son a big love mark that night?''


    Kris Li came home late and drunk that day. It was the very few times that he had been so drunk that Collin had to carry him home. Madam Li did not mind Kris drinking but being drunk is a different story.


    Madam Li was scolding Collin very fiercely. Kris had been out drinking lately and she did not like it. Kris never shared his troubles and feelings to her¡­ If only his father was still alive then maybe Kris wouldn''t be so closed off.


    Collin was being yelled at but he knew that he would. He will get yell at no matter¡­ it was just a matter of who does the yelling. He rather have Madam Li scold him that Kris beating him up for not allowing him to drink.


    When the maids were cleaning up Kris, they reported back to Madam Li that he got hurt on his neck. Madam Li went to see it herself and saw that it was a big love mark. And a recent one too!


    Little did she know that it was a bite mark. Kris had rubbed the area so much that night that it turned bright red. Her eyes went bloodshot red and called Collin late afterward, demanding for answers.


    She wanted to know which slut dared touched her son. Is this why he was so drunk tonight? However, to her surprise, Collin mentioned Lena Shen. With that, Madam Li stop scolding and instead asked for more information.


    Collin did not speak anymore because he did not know much and Kris would not tell him what happened. So, Madam Li made her own assumptions.


    Her son went to visit the young miss and return home drunk and with a love mark? Obviously, there is a relationship between the two!


    Madam Li was exploding with happiness inside. She was sure to help her son this time!


    Without warning, Madam Li suddenly lost her balance. Lena quickly leaned and supported her before she could fall onto the ground.


    "Are you ok? Let me call someone over." Lena urged.


    Madam Li blinked a few times to regain her sight. She must have been too excited and intense emotional changes can be bad for her health. She may look healthy but her body was not 100% ever since she woke up from the coma.


    "No need. I don''t want to make a scene."


    Lena understood. It would cause an uproar if she fainted here. Plus, it would not have been for her too as the host.


    "Then let me take you somewhere to rest."


    Lena led Madam Li to a room and told a few workers to get her some water. After some rest, Madam Li was better.


    "Are you sure you do not want to go to the hospital?"


    "It''s fine. It is best if I return home. I will have my personal doctor check me instead."


    "Alright. How about I have someone send you home. It will make me feel assured if you got home safe."


    Madam Li smiled at Lena. Lena Shen was just being nice without knowing that Madam Li was already thinking about grandchildren.


    "Then I won''t deny the offer."

 Chapter 29 - Taxi Drive

    Lena had to force James to take Madam Li home. She only trusted him and felt that Madam Li is in the best care if he was there.


    Lena assured James that the drive to the Gaming Tournament was a short ride and he can meet her there afterward. With that, James obeyed his master''s command and sent Madam Li off.


    He thought that since this old lady was not feeling that well, the ride will be silent. However, Madam Li took the opportunity to torture James with questions about Lena.


    "How does she treat you? Do you like working with her?"


    "Does she hang around any men?"


    "What does she like to eat?"


    James knew that Madam Li was an important person so he answered those that he can and those that were not invading his master''s privacy. Other''s he said that he had only been with Lena for a short time so he does not know her well.


    Madam Li stopped after a while because James doesn''t know.


    ------------------------------


    After sending off Madam Li, Lena left the event. She called for a taxi and headed towards the Gaming Tournament. She was sure that Gary was going to be the championship winner. His game name was Helios.


    The original Lena may have no interest in gaming, but being a graphic designer, Lena had a fascination with gaming. Although she never played them, the concept and graphics of some games are just so intriguing.


    Lena held the bag of prizes that she had prepared for Gary. She was excited in the back seat as the taxi driver continued driving.


    It was about another 20 minutes before they reach the location. Lena glanced at the back mirror and stopped her smiling.


    She was sure that the car behind them has been with them since she left the event area. They are also taking smaller roads to avoid the traffic with so many events going on today.


    They had made several turns and so she was sure something was off.


    "Sir, can you take a small detour? Turn at the next block?" Lena asked the driver.


    "Sure." He didn''t care because more driving just means more money for him.


    As expected, they turned a few times and the car was still following them.


    Lena''s heart stopped a bit. ''I am scared.''


    James was not with her and she is in the smaller area of town.


    "Sir, can you speed up? If you get stop then I will take care of the trouble."


    "Ok." The driver did not mind. He was confused about why she was in a hurry now but asking for detours just before. But whatever, it is not his job to ask questions.


    He sped but the car behind sped along with them. But right now¡­ Lena could see three cars. SHIT!


    A car sped up really fast and suddenly bumped the taxi driver''s car.


    "WTF" The driver was going to stop and get out but Lena yelled. She saw guns in the car.


    ''OMFG OMFG OMFG OMFG OMFG''


    Lena''s heart was beating so hard. She had only seen these in movies, not real life. Where is her bodyguard when she needed one! If she got out of this alive¡­ she''ll be sure to have him by her sides 24/7.


    "Don''t stop! They have guns¡­ keep driving!"


    "Guns?" The driver was shocked but he panicked and pressed on the gas.


    "Young lady? You look too nice to have people after you!"


    "Ah? I am nice! I really am! Can you get us back to the city?"


    If they make it to an area that is more populated they would be safer. No one would dare kidnap her in broad daylight¡­. Would they?


    To worsen the situation, they started shooting the car. Lena screamed at the top of her lungs and put her head down.


    "I don''t wanna die!" The driver called out.


    Lena quickly pulled out her phone and dialed the police.


    "I am being shot at in a taxi!" She screamed into the phone when it got picked up.


    "Miss. I am sorry but can you repeat that again?"


    "I AM BEING SHOT AT IN A TAXI!!!!"


    "Ok. Can I have your name?"

 Chapter 30 - Murong

    "FK MY NAME!!! I AM BEING SHOT AT!!"


    Just then...one of the gunshots shot the car wheel. The driver kept driving best he can but they both knew they were doomed.


    Lena hung up the phone and dialed the next person, James. The phone rang but he didn''t pick up.


    Lena then called Gary. She knew that whatever happens, Gary can find her. But no luck¡­ he didn''t pick up. He must be in the tournament already.


    ''Damn! Who else can she called!?!''


    A name suddenly popped into her mind and she dialed the number. After a few rings, the call was connected.


    However, the taxi finally stopped. Lena can hear the other three cars screeching with a stop.


    "You have to save me. I know you can save me. I don''t want to die but if I die¡­ find my body and make sure I get a good funeral."


    At this point, Lena was crying. The men broke the windows, opened the door and grabbed Lena out. She was screaming and kicking.


    She doesn''t know how to fight but that does not mean she will go without having a fight.


    "Let me go!! AHHHHH!"


    "Black Tiger, 8-aka, Murong"


    Lena was able to yell that out before they knocked her out.


    The bad guys thought that she was just spouting nonsense, but nope¡­ Lena was attempting to give her caller some clues on the people who took her.


    ---------------------------------------------


    Ming Zhao was just finishing his lunch when he got a phone call. He picked it up after seeing that it was Lena Shen. He was hoping to talk to her about a few things.


    Just as he picked up the call, he was greeted with a panicking voice.


    "You have to save me. I know you can save me. I don''t want to die but if I die¡­ find my body and make sure I get a good funeral."


    "Lena? Are you ok?"


    He heard glass shattering, doors opening, and Lena shouting.


    "LENA! Where are you?"


    He continued to listen. He signaled Tim to come over, put the phone on speaker as both of them continue to listen to the noises.


    "Let me go!! AHHHHH!"


    "Black Tiger, 8-aka, Murong"


    After that, the noises were further away. More doors opened and closed and the sound of cars screeching off.


    Ming Zhao turned deadly.


    "Boss!"


    Ming Zhao quickly threw the phone to Tim. He went to his desk, pulled out a gun, and another phone.


    "Track where that call was coming from now and send it to me."


    "Where are you going?"


    "Out first."


    With that, Tim quickly called someone to track the location of the phone. He also rushed with his boss whose bodyguards of two also followed along.


    Ming Zhao called for more backup to meet at the location which Tim''s person already found out.


    Tim was driving full speed. Normally they would need 30 minutes to reach the location but he was sure to arrive there in 10.


    "Black Tiger, 8-aka, Murong¡­ That was what she said. What do you think those mean?"


    Tim paused and thought for a bit. He glanced at the back mirror to see his boss very scary.


    Ming Zhao was also playful but he became more of a dark person after Mike came into the picture.


    "Black Tiger¡­ could it be the Beast gang? They have black tiger tattoos." He replied to his boss.


    "8¡­ 8 people, AKa¡­ Ak guns? And Murong¡­. I don''t know that one."


    Tim pondered on that clue too but he could not think about what that clue could be.


    When they arrived at the scene, the other team was already there. Ming Zhao stepped out of the car.


    "Boss!" One of the men who were on the scene first rushed to him.


    "Report."


    "The taxi driver is dead. Shot in the head. There is no sign on Miss. Shen. Her bags and belongings are still in the car. There are signs of struggle in the back seat but no blood."


    "Ok." Ming Zhao look around the scene.


    "Murong." He laughed.


    Tim was scared. His boss was chuckling to himself when Miss. Shen was kidnapped.


    "Boss?"


    "Murong. A favor. I guess this is her first favor."


    Murong was a code made between two friends in one of the current hit dramas. The buddies spoke in their own secret language and Murong meant favor.

 Chapter 31 - Trophy

    "Call the Shen family and report the situation to them. The police will be here soon. Make sure nothing here ties to Lena Shen. Make sure this situation also stay low until we find her."


    "Yes, boss."


    "And get all the information you can on the Beast gang. I don''t know if this is a regular kidnapping. They killed the driver in cold blood."


    "Then we must work fast." Tim spoke.


    The Zhao family have their own security team and he took full charge of the situation. When his parents heard the news, they were glad to help out.


    Their business with the Shen had been successful so far. They also like Lena Shen a lot. She was one of the few young ladies from the high society to be so independent and strong.


    Ming Zhao originally did not seek Lena because of this favor, but because he needed Lena Shen alive. She is crucial to his plan for becoming the next Zhao heir and stabilizing his position. He can make sure that everything that is rightfully his will become his, but he can never kill his own brother.


    Although Project Crystal will guarantee his position, Ming Zhao needed to think of long term consequences.


    And as long as his brother is alive, Ming Zhao knew that Mike Zhao will not give up. Mike Zhao abandoned his family for money and he can do the same for the Zhao family.


    Tim had called and informed the Shen family beforehand. When Shen Milli heard the news, she almost fainted in shock. Shen Mao was furious at James who later arrived. Shen Mao punished him for leaving her daughter alone.


    "I will deal with you later." Shen Mao yelled at James who was kneeled on the floor.


    "Master, people from the Zhao family are here." Aunt Mary interrupted them.


    Shen Mao quickly went out to greet the men. It was Tim and a group of other people.


    "Have you found my daughter?" Shen Mao asked.


    When the Zhao family offered the resources to look for their daughter, Shen Mao was quickly to accept. The Shen family has no business or power in these type of troubles. They would usually rely on the police.


    But knowing that the Zhao family are offering and no doubt they are better than the police, Shen Mao was thankful.


    "Do not worry, CEO Shen. Young Master Zhao is working diligently to find your daughter. At the moment, we will set up here in case the kidnappers call for a ransom."


    Shen Mao allowed them in and set up the area. He went to check on his wife. He needed to be a strong man for both of them.


    ------------------------


    While Ming Zhao and his team scurried to find Lena, Gary had just completed the event. For the final round, it took him 10 minutes to defeat his opponent, a new record for him.


    He was very happy and smiling. As they announced him as the winner and handed him his trophy, he stared into the VIP room where he had reserved for Lena.


    His smile dropped and sadness filled his heart.


    ''She''s not here¡­but she promised.''


    He quickly left the stage and headed toward the room. He stood outside the door holding the trophy for a while before opening it.


    He had his confirmation. She was not here. She lied to him again. What did he expect¡­ it''s not like she enjoyed being here anyway.


    Gary slowly walked to the table where the untouched desserts were. He sat down on the sofa and pulled out his phone.


    ''One missed call¡­ I bet it was to inform me that she couldn''t make it.''


    Gary threw his phone hard on the ground, its screen shattering as it clashed with the hard floor. He was angry and heartbroken. He had spent countless times trying to show his love for her and every time, she always break his heart. He thought that they were doing so well?


    He left his trophy in the room and left. This time¡­ he will not go searching for her. For once, he wants her to come searching for him right at his door.

 Chapter 32 - Negotiation

    Lena woke up with a splash of water poured onto her. She slowly blinked a few times before remembering the situation she was in.


    Her hands and feet were tied tightly to a chair. Her breathing becomes heavy and her insides are shivering.


    ''What do I do?''


    Lena tried her best to come up with a way on how to get of this¡­ if she does get out. She looked around. She was in some type of warehouse. She can see that it was dark from the outside. When she was kidnapped, it was still bright.


    "You are finally awake.." The man who poured water on her spoke.


    "Leo? What are we going to do now?" Someone else spoke.


    "Simple¡­" The man named Leo walked closer to Lena. He held her chin and turn her face side to side as he took a good look at her.


    "We play¡­ then we make sure the job is done by tonight. They can find her in the morning."


    Lena''s heart stopped. She doesn''t mind dying¡­ but they are not going to kill her? Do they want to play with her? No¡­ anything but that. She rather died than be raped or tortured.


    Her mouth was tied up but the man untied it, knowing that Lena wanted to say something. She breathed in some air to relax her.


    "You¡­ you have the wrong person."


    "AHAHAHHAHAHAHA" The men laughed. There were 4 of them here.


    "The Young Miss of the Shen family. I am pretty sure we have the correct person."


    "I haven''t done anything wrong! Why would you want to do this to me!"


    "Tsk¡­" Leo pulled her chin up so she was looking at him. "Money."


    "I can pay you more. I will double it." Lena quickly blurted out. This is what they do in the movies right? "Triple?"


    "Young miss... Even if you pay us¡­ there will be others who will take the job. Be glad it''s us. We will be gentle to you."


    ''More? Who in God''s name did you offend LENA?!'' Lena was scolding herself.


    "Who wants to go first?"


    "Me."


    "You? You''re so ugly. I said we would be gentle on her. I am going first."


    "Then why did you even ask?"


    "Cuz I was being nice."


    The men were discussing who was going to go first while Lena wished she was dead. She was too scared to properly think through the situation. She doesn''t know how to fight.


    Even if she can get her hands on a gun, she would never be able to kill anyone. The best thing she can do is to stall for time¡­ for she hoped that Ming Zhao understood her clues and was looking for her at this moment.


    She closed her eyes, took a deep breath and prepared her mind and heart for what she was going to do next.


    "I¡­.. I will play with you."


    Leo turned back to her attention. No one had ever said that to him. Is this woman crazy?


    "You are going to do it anyways¡­ so I should at least enjoy it too right?"


    ''Mother of all kings¡­ I have no idea what I am doing.''


    "I want a shower first." Lena declared.


    Leo smirked. "What makes you think you are in a position to make demands?"


    ''Shit.. wrong move.'' Lena screamed in her head.


    "Then¡­ can I at least be free? There are four of you here and only me. It''s not like I can run out of here."


    Leo looked at Lena. He was evaluating her strength and size. She was definitely a kicker before but there are four of them here.


    And they needed her feet free anyways¡­

 Chapter 33 - Stall for Time

    *****Reader''s Discretion*****


    The next part may be a bit inappropriate for some people. Nothing too heavy tho.


    ******************************


    In the end, they untied her. She sat in the chair obediently. Her mind was continuously thinking of possible solutions.


    "Let''s get started then... " Leo looked at the sexy Lena Shen. The water he poured on her revealed her slick body. He was thirsty.


    Her breasts were full and a beautiful chick too. Much more clean and probably very tight compared to the woman he had been with.


    He caressed her cheeks.


    "WAAIT." Lena protested.


    "Tskk."


    "I.. I am hungry."


    Leo grabbed her chin tight and Lena gave a small screech.


    "Mhhh¡­. I don''t have enough energy for all of you. It''s dinner and I didn''t even have lunch or dinner."


    Leo released her.


    "Leo¡­ I am hungry too." One of the men grumbled in agreement.


    "Yeah man. We need energy. We can pump her all night if we all ate."


    Lena nodded in agreement.


    ''Yeah.. pump me all night¡­ dear lord.'' Lena just needed to keep stalling best she can. She was also very hungry.


    Leo made an order for food. It arrived after 30 minutes. She was warned very well that if she screamed, the deliveryman would be shot execution style like the taxi driver.


    Lena shivered. The poor driver died.... because of her? Her heart cried.


    Lena was eating very slowly, but Leo told her that if she doesn''t finish her food in 5 minutes then she won''t have any.


    The men were watching the news while the other four men came back.


    ''FK¡­ there are 8 of them now. It will be harder if I did plan to escape.'' Lena evaluated her situation.


    She glanced at the T.V. There was no news of her going missing. Did they want to keep this low profile? This just means that Ming Zhao is really looking for her right?


    She took another deep breath. She needs to be positive about this.


    Gary would come to find her too right? By this time, he would notice that she didn''t come to see him and he would find her. She knows that Gary could find her easily.


    After all... she always wore the "friendship" bracelet that he gave her. It had a tracking device that he personally made. Lena had complained how ugly it was but Gary spent a lot of money to make it fancy, something that Lena would wear.


    The old Lena did not wear it, but Lena did. For she knew that the bracelet is important.


    ''Don''t cry¡­ no matter no crying.'' She mumbled to herself.


    Lena was very scared. She saw Leo already setting a comfy area and here she is.. Trying her best to eat. Enjoying her last meal before she succumbed to her fate.


    ''Fate¡­ was this my fate to here?'' A tear dropped down and Lena quickly wiped it. She knew that if she started crying, her whole plan would be gone.


    "Princess¡­ your bed is ready." Leo spoke.


    Lena stared at the man and the "bed." He was already taking off his belt and shirt. He quickly dragged Lena to the bed.


    "WAIT." Lena protested again.


    *Slaps* Leo slapped Lena. The pain was intense. The man did not even hold back.


    "You had your wait¡­ I can''t wait any longer."


    Lena stared down his below and see that his manhood was already bulging. The man pushed Lena down on the futon that was laid. She could see the other men laughing and getting excited.


    No matter how much she told herself to be strong¡­ she can''t. She is not prepared for this.


    The man sniffed her scent and started kissing her neck.


    "Please stop¡­ I don''t want this. I''ll pay you."


    The man ignored Lena''s small cries.


    "PLEASE!!"


    The man continued to touch Lena and kiss her. He went for her mouth but she turned her head. Leo yanked her hair and Lena cried.


    Another man came and held down Lena''s hands, while Leo was straddling on top of her, holding down her legs.


    ''AHHHHHHH¡­ why am i so weak. I can''t move.''


    Leo went in for another kiss on the lips but this time Lena spit at him. This time.. He was angry.


    He slapped her again on the same cheek that was slapped before.


    "You F**ken B**ch!! I won''t be gentle on you no more."


    He searched his way up her dress and pulled down her panties. Lena was crying nonstop. She was crying so much that she couldn''t even yell to protest.


    The man stood up, took off his pants and --------.


    *THUMP*

 Chapter 34 - Pool of Blood

    Leo''s body plopped dead on top of Lena. Before she could react, another shot was made to the man who was holding her down.


    Red liquid splatter on her face and the man dropped dead down on top of her, covering her face. She was squished between two bloody dead bodies.


    Lena was too in shock to even move or scream. Her eyes were wide open. She just laid there hearing the battle between gunshots.


    Lena was not crying anymore. She doesn''t know what to feel. Lena''s mental state was exploded.


    There was a small silence that came afterward and then she heard a man calling her name. She tried to find out who''s voice it was, but it seemed so far away.


    She felt the weight on her gone. Lena stared at the man calling her name. Somehow¡­ she can''t seem to remember his name at this moment.


    His face was handsome and his blond wavy hair. He looks like an angel. She smiled. He reminds her of Jeremy from the Korean Drama, You''re Beautiful.


    Ming Zhao kept calling Lena''s name but she seemed so out of it. He helped her up. She was lying in a pool of blood.


    When he saw her down and what those men were doing to her, he reacted before he could think. His hands instinctively shot the two men, forgetting the fact that Lena probably had never seen or experienced such a frightening situation.


    Tim handed Ming Zhao a blanket in which he wrapped around Lena¡­ who was still in shock. Her beautiful red dress was soaked with blood. He tried calling her name one more time.


    Lena suddenly snapped out of her daze. She stared at Ming Zhao.


    "Murong?" Lena spoke and then she fainted from all the event. Her body and soul could not handle this.


    Ming Zhao quickly carried her princess style.


    "Clean this up. Make sure none of this gets out."


    Ming Zhao still held Lena close to him as they drove to the hospital. He looked at her and somehow¡­ she was just like any other woman. She may be strong and wise¡­ but she has her own limitations. A small smile formed in his face as he held the woman.


    ''Murong. Is that going to be his nickname from now on? He liked Ming-ge better.'' He silently chuckled.


    "I have already contacted the Shen family. They will be meeting us at the hospital."


    "Good. How about the rest of the Beast Gang?"


    "Our men infiltrated their hideout and wiped them clean. However¡­"


    "What is it?"


    "The leader said that the job came from a global source¡­ meaning that there may be others who want to harm the young miss if the job was not completed."


    "Others?"


    Ming Zhao looked at Lena again, who seem to be peacefully sleeping. "Who did you offend?" he spoke to her.


    "What would you like to do about this?" Tim asked.


    "I''ll deal with this later. If she becomes to much trouble¡­ then she won''t be any use to me."


    Tim focused on driving again. His boss kept telling himself that Lena Shen was a tool for him¡­ but he felt that Ming Zhao was a tool for her instead¡­.

 Chapter 35 - Phoenix

    ------------------------------------------------


    "What?!" Madam Li screamed through the phone.


    "I did bring your gift to the Shen residence, but they have informed me that the young miss is in the hospital."


    "Hospital? How? She was just fine and healthy with me yesterday?!"


    "I do not know Madam. They did not tell me more. They only tell me a bit because I said I was from the Li residence."


    "Useless people." Madam Li grumbled and hung up the call.


    She had sent out one of her workers this morning to send a thank you gift to Miss. Shen. However, he had returned the call that she was in the hospital.


    There was no news about her being in the hospital, so something really bad must have happened. With the paparazzi these days, they are always on top of rich people news.


    Madam Li quickly grabbed her bag and went downstairs. She would need to visit Miss. Shen and make sure she is alright.


    Just as she was about to leave, Kris popped from the kitchen.


    "Are you going somewhere? It''s still early in the morning for you to be moving around."


    "I have to go to the hospital."


    Kris quickly went to his mother''s side to inspect her.


    "Are you hurt anywhere? I can take you."


    Madam Li quickly swatted his son with her purse.


    "You useless son. I am not going to the hospital for me, I am going to visit my daugh--- I mean Miss. Shen."


    Kris raised his brows. When had his mother been so close to that witch? He had just heard the news this morning that she was in the hospital. The entire Beast Gang was wiped out last night.


    "Should I go with you?" Kris asked. He was more eager to see the condition of Lena since he was not able to get any information on that.


    To Madam Li though¡­ she thought he was concerned about her condition. Of course, she should bring him with her. She can finally see their chemistry and why her son had not been so successful.


    ---------------------------------------------


    When Lena woke up, she was already in the hospital. She was not in any pain. She looked to her side to see her mother.


    Her mother was happily crying beside her since she was fine. Ming Zhao did not give Shen Milli a lot of details about the event, just that she was kidnapped.


    "Mom.."


    "Hmm.. I am here." Shen Milli held her hand.


    "You should stop crying¡­ It makes you look ugly."


    Shen Milli laughed. She was happy that her daughter was still herself. She knew that experiencing something like this could be a disaster to one''s mental health.


    Lena sat herself up. She was not really tired.


    "Where''s dad?"


    "He''s at the office today. He wanted to stay but I told him that if he doesn''t go, the news might spread about you being hospitalized."


    "You look tired¡­"


    Shen Milli looked at her daughter''s beautiful face. She had stayed with her the entire night and had not slept since hearing the news about her being kidnapped. Only when they were informed that she was safe, she finally started breathing again.


    Lena knew that her mother had not slept one bit.


    "I am fine." Lena smiled. "Just hungry. You should go home and sleep. Aunt Mary can stay with me."


    Shen Milli was going to argue but she knew that she would not win against her stubborn daughter. So she headed back home while Aunt Mary stayed with Lena.


    Aunt Mary went out to grab some food for her. Lena took the opportunity to call Gary. She called him a few times, but each time the call went directly to voicemail.


    Her phone is not here and there is no laptop so she will contact him later when she can.


    "Hello?" Lena called out. She sensed that there were people outside her room since she had woken up.


    A tall sturdy man walked in and bow. "Did you need something miss?"


    "Who are you?" Lena asked.


    "Young Master Zhao assigned us to be here with you until the situation is resolved."


    "Ming Zhao?" That was right¡­ it was him that came. Murong¡­ Lena smiled. "Where is he now?"


    "The young master said he will visit you later in the evening."


    Lena nodded and the man left. She did not plan to use one of her favors for this¡­ but she was glad she did.


    Lena took a deep breath. She closed her eyes to remember all the horrible things she just went through. She was scared and weak¡­ but this will only make her stronger.


    This experience was an eye-opening for her. Lena Shen has officially entered the war zone of the high society and it is not all flowers and unicorns.


    She folded her hands into a fist and her eyes flared like a phoenix.

 Chapter 36 - Light Bulb

    Lena just finished her breakfast when there was a knock on her door. Aunt Mary went to open the door.


    "Madam Li?" Lena as a bit surprised. She thought that her being in the hospital was hush hush.


    "Ah¡­ you poor thing. I heard you were in the hospital. I had to come to see you to make sure you were alright."


    "Thank you."


    "I bought some gifts and flowers for you." She placed them on the counter.


    Aunt Mary left the room to give some space for them. However, Kris entered the room. Lena was even more surprised that he was here¡­


    "My son also came along with me. He was quite worried about you." Madam Li smiled.


    "Is that it?" Lena stared at him, trying to read his reaction. Kris was showing none. He just casually walked and sat down.


    Kris turned his head sideways from Lena as he poured himself some water. At that moment, his neck was very much visible to Lena and a light bulb hit her.


    ''It was HIM! It has to be him! He was the only one that she had offended. Must have been from that time when she bit him!''


    "Are you sick?" Madam Li asked, interrupting Lena''s thought process.


    "Nothing major. I should be discharged soon if my mother doesn''t force me to stay here longer than what I needed."


    "That''s great!"


    Madam Li sat next to the bed and held Lena''s hand.


    "My heart almost stopped when I heard you were in the hospital. I feel so guilty that you had left your bodyguard with me instead. You were so sincere about my health that you disregarded your safety."


    Kris finally reacted. He did not know that Lena had left her bodyguard with his mother. He only heard that the doctor came and did a regular checkup on her yesterday. Was it not a normal checkup? He looked at Lena and then his mother.


    "Are you having a relapse?" He asked his mother.


    "Did you not know, your mother --" Lena spoke but Madam Li suddenly squeezed her hand a bit. Lena took it that the mom must not want to worry her son.


    "Was... tired from the large crowd so I had James sent her home early." Lena finished.


    "You are such a nice young lady¡­ who would want to hurt someone like you." Madam Li changed the topic.


    "You''re right¡­" Lena stared at Kris.. as if speaking to him. "What kind of evil person would want to hurt me."


    Kris met Lena''s eye and he felt a cold chill. He had never felt such dire feelings before from someone else other than his grandfather.


    "But I am alright now. Ming-ge has been helping me and my family with the situation."


    ''Ming-ge? The young master Zhao? Are they this close to calling each other by their first names? My son is too far behind!!!!'' Madam Li thought.


    "Our Li family can help too. After all, I am to be blamed for you being here too. As you know, my some has very high resources for these types of situations."


    "Really?" Lena''s eyes glistened. She was laughing inside her heart. "With the Li resource, I am pretty sure you will find the MAN that wants to hurt me in no time."


    Lena spoke sarcastically, trying to rub some tensions to Kris¡­ who obviously caught on her attitude.


    "Of course, my son is very diligent. Right?" Madam Li turned to Kris.


    "Anything my mother says is true." He sternly spoke.


    Kris stood up and walked towards his mother. "Mother, you should leave soon too. You still have to visit grandmother today for the tea ceremony."


    "That is right¡­ then I''ll be leaving. I''ll have my people contact you about a day for me to come visit your collections."


    "I''ll be waiting then," Lena replied.


    Kris walked his mother to the door in which he quickly said, "You go first. I need a moment to speak to Miss. Shen alone."

 Chapter 37 - Apologize, or else

    Madam Li was quick to leave. She was right!!! Her son really likes this lady! She''ll wait here for him to see his reaction when he comes out.


    Kris closed the door and turn back to be faced with a smiling Lena.


    "Seems like you are enjoying this?" His voice changed into a deep and scary tone.


    "Hmm? I am just admiring a handsome man, can I not?" Lena threw Kris a cute smile with a wink.


    That comment threw him off. He cleared his throat. "Do you really think that because you got into my mother''s good side, that I would forgive you?"


    Lena suddenly hopped off the hospital bed and stepped up to meet Kris.


    "Says the man who doesn''t even know about what happened to his mother yesterday."


    Lena tempted him, knowing that he hated not knowing everything about his mother. She too, would hate to not know about her own mother''s health.


    She sat down on the sofa and crossed her legs. Lena was chilled like she didn''t care about what just happened to her yesterday.


    "Apologize." She spoke sternly.


    "What?"


    "Apologize to me. And just maybe, I will tell you about what happened yesterday to your mother."


    Kris scoffed. "I don''t need you to give me an answer. If I want one, there are other ways to get it."


    "You know¡­ I thought really hard about what I was going to do when I found the people who wanted to hurt me." Lena casually started opening the gifts that Madam Li brought her as she spoke.


    "Would I want to kill them? Torture them?" She slowly unboxed a box a chocolate and took a small bite. "However, when I knew that it was you¡­ I knew I couldn''t do anything."


    Kris evily smiled. "So you do know that you cannot match up to me."


    "But I have such the perfect way to torture you! Cuz I know your weakness." Lena put down the box and focused on Kris again. She was explaining like she was telling a campfire story.


    "Imagine having a sleepover with Madam Li and then at night¡­ sneaking into the young master Li''s room.. Tying him to his own bed and touching him all over." She put her hands to her cheeks and squealed for dramatics.


    "You are crazy!"


    "HOld on¡­ there is more. Imagine feeling his sexy abs with my claws¡­ mhmmm.." Lena pointed to his abs, which he looked at her in shock. "Maybe taste his lips too?" She does a lip smacking sound. "And give him another bite." She does a cute bite imitation.


    "You wouldn''t dare." Kris was so mentally triggered about her talking about her harassing him.


    Lena burst into a cute laugh. "I would not honestly." Her tone was serious again. "I am not stupid to go against you again. I kissed you and you ruined my family''s company. I gave you a small bite and you wanted to kill me. If I did what I just spoke¡­ are you gonna kill me and my entire family?"


    "Again, I am not crazy. If you apologize, I will forgive you, no harsh feelings." Lena stood up to try to match her height to him again.


    "Or¡­. I can really tell Madam Li who really hurt me."


    "You--- If my mother was not outside at this moment I would not hesitate to strangle you."


    Lena giggled. "You are so cute when you are angry, did you know that? If you were so not touchy-phobia, I would poke you to death."


    Lena climbed back to her bed with her box of sweets. "I''ll give you 24 hours for a sincere apology. I am pretty sure you are rich and smart enough to know how to please a woman like me."


    "Heh¡­" Kris scoffed. "In your dreams."


    He turned and left her in the room.

 Chapter 38 - Dreaming of Home

    "Are you done?" Madam Li asked her son when he came out.


    Kris smiled at his mother. "Let''s get you home." They both walked out with their own security team.


    Aunt Mary entered the room to check on Lena who was cheerfully eating her chocolates. ''My lady is so happy that Young Master Li came and visited her?''


    "Where is James?"


    "James has been relieved of his duty as your bodyguard. Your father employed two new ones to be with you." Aunt Mary replied.


    "UGH¡­ where is Gary when you need him. I almost died yesterday and he is not here to see me?"


    Lena slouched back on her bed as she passed the box of sweets to Aunt Mary to put away. She closed her eyes and again, recalling the trauma.


    Actually, when she knew that it was one Kris who put the hit on her... She was very frightened. But somehow the evil soul of the real Lena laughed it off. That was how she was able to continue talking to the man. She felt happy to have the badass Lena personality was embedded in her.


    Lena softly breathed in and out¡­ and soon she fell asleep. For the first time since she came here, she dreamt about being back home, her original home.


    She dreamt of waking up exactly as if she never become Lena. She dressed for another work day at the company. Shen Qian (remember this was her original name) put on some light makeup and left to go to work.


    By lunch, she went to meet up with Senior Han. He was already outside by the tall tree that was beautifully blossoming.


    "Shen Qian, have you thought about it?" He asked her as he held her hand.


    "MHM! Senior Han, I like you too!" Shen Qian smiled at Senior Han.


    Senior Han hugged Shen Qian as she hugged him back. Then he released her and looked into her eyes.


    "I am glad. I had loved you for a long time now." He went in for a kiss on the lips. Shen Qian closed her eyes to accept it.


    *Poke*


    Lena opened her eyes awake to see a weird man poking her forehead. She quickly reacted and swap his face to push it away from her.


    "Hey hey hey!" The man backed away.


    "Ming Zhao?" Lena recognized his voice. She suddenly perched herself up. "Why are you here? Where''s Aunt Mary?"


    "I sent her away. It''s not like you are in critical condition that needs 24 hours of monitoring."


    Lena pouted but then relaxed. "Thank you¡­." She said softly.


    "What did you say? I didn''t hear you." He smiled.


    "I said Thank you!"


    Ming Zhao walked closer to Lena and sat on the side. "No problem partner. This is your first favor, so you have 4 left."


    "I can do my own math¡­"


    "On a serious note, I have not found out who is behind your kidnapping."


    "It''s fine."


    Ming Zhao raised his brows¡­ "It''s fine?"


    "I already know who was behind it."


    "Who?"


    "You do not need to know. I only ask you to save me, not protect me. I can do the rest myself."


    "Well, if you say so."


    Ming Zhao felt that Lena was being very overconfident. Even after what she went through, it seemed like she was back to normal so quickly. But he knows already that she has a vulnerable side too.


    "How did you find me?" Lena questioned.


    "You really want to know?" He stared at her. Seemed like she really did want to know. "With your clues, we already knew that the men were from the Beast gang. When we hit a section of their territory, they gave us the name Leo."


    Lena''s eyes turned dark from hearing that name. But they went back to normal when she remembered what really happened to them.


    "Because he had a criminal record, we already had information on him and the people he hung out with. We had voice recognition on all phone traces and facial recognition on the CCTV around the city. Our system caught him when he ordered for delivery. We had one of our men be the delivery man who already scouted the area and their defense. We just had to wait for a time that they were off guard."


    Ming Zhao smiled like he was very happy. "Can you believe it? We caught them because they were too hungry---"


    Lena slapped his head hard.


    "Whaaattt was that for?" Ming Zhao blinked a few times.

 Chapter 39 - Bad Guys

    Lena aimed to slap his head one more time but he dodged it as he stood up from the seat.


    "You think you are so smart huh?" She threw him one of her pillows. She was angry because if what he said was true¡­ then it was she who saved herself by making them order the damn FOOD!


    "It was me who told them to eat. ME!"


    "Okay, okay. You don''t need to get so hyped up." Ming Zhao calmed her down but he was silently laughing at her stubbornness.


    Lena finally calmed down. "I heard¡­. I heard that the driver died." She quietly said. She was sad.


    Ming Zhao could see that she was more depressed over this issue. "Shot in the head. He died before I even arrived there."


    "Did he have any family?"


    "None." He saw that Lena was still looking down and sad. He sat back down on the chair beside the bed. "You shouldn''t worry too much. The driver was not a good man anyways?"


    As excepted, Lena looked back up at Ming Zhao with a what-are-you-talking-about face.


    "He''s a wanted man for a bank robbery and murder."


    "What?!" Lena recalled the driver. He looked like a father working hard for his family. He was so kind too!


    "I don''t know if you want to call it a coincidence or not, but he had been hiding for 8 years now. We only found out when his fingerprints were run into the system for confirming his identity with his driver''s license."


    Ming Zhao was a bit happy that Lena seemed less sad now. He poked her in the forehead. "Tsk¡­ I don''t know if I should stay away from you or not. You attract a lot of bad guys."


    "Me?!" Lena was hyped up again. "You are a bad guy!"


    "I won''t bother you anymore. You need to eat and the doctor will check on you again."


    "Are you leaving?" Lena asked.


    "Why? You want me to stay longer?" He cheekily smiled back at her.


    "No. You are dismissed."


    "Yes, your majesty." He bowed for roleplay. "Ah, your mother came to check on you before. She left you a few changes of clothes and some personal stuff. It''s in that bag."


    Ming Zhao pointed out the bag that was on the sofa. Lena nodded to confirm that she heard him, and she lay back on her side to rest some more. He silently left.


    Lena''s heart cried a bit. "I was about to kiss Senior Han *wuuu*"


    She rested for a bit before walking to check what her mother left for her. She found her phone and excitedly grabbed it and went back to the bed.


    She checked her phone and no calls or messages from Gary. She tried calling him a few times again but was met with voicemail.


    ''Did something happen to him?'' Lena was a bit worried.


    The Doctor knocked and entered the room.


    "Hello, I am Dr. Linda. I will just do a quick check on you."


    Lena nodded. The doctor did a few tests on Lena. After 15 minutes, they were done.


    "How am I?"


    "You are physically fine. You can be discharged tomorrow morning if you want."


    "Really?"


    "However, I recommend you talking to a psychiatrist."


    Lena stared at the doctor with no reaction. The Doctor was a bit scared. She knew who Lena Shen was and was trying her best to gentle and professional about this topic.


    "It is not required. And I know you are a strong woman. If you do not want to talk to a professional psychiatrist, you should still speak to someone about the trauma you went through." Dr. Linda smiled nicely.


    "I''ll think about it. Thank you."


    The doctor left and Lena looked back at her cell phone. She sent a text to Gary before hoping to go for a shower.

 Chapter 40 - Lonely

    Lena spent a long time in the shower. She just let the warm water spray over her body as she just stared emotionless into space. She then started washing herself, making sure to scrub her body a few more time than normal.


    She felt refreshed and smelled nice when she got out. She needed to remind herself not to wear too many dresses in the future.


    When she got out, she was greeted by a nurse who was delivering food for her.


    "These are the food that Young Master Zhao specifically ordered for you."


    Lena looked at the food. They were expensive and nutritious food. "Thank you."


    The nurse left and Lena ate her food. She savored every taste to compared it to the moment she thought she might have her last meal.


    Ming Zhao had been very good to her lately. She will need to find him a thank you gift even though this was a favor. Lena was always very good at gifting Andy, but what would Ming Zhao like? He was nerdier than Andy.


    ''Aha¡­ I should try asking Gary. Those two are into the same things right?''


    She tried calling Gary a few times but there was still no answer. This is the first time that Gary had gone so silent on her. Lena shook her head. He is probably into another gaming spree of his, forgetting about eating and other people.


    Instead, she called her mother.


    "Hello?" Shen Milli answered the phone.


    "Mom."


    "Lena, are you okay? Did something happen?"


    "I am fine."


    "Are you lonely? I can come to stay with you for the night."


    "No. I don''t need you to babysit me." Lena chuckled.


    "You are never too old to not need me to babysit you."


    "I am getting discharged tomorrow morning."


    "What? You should stay there longer."


    "The doctor already cleared me. It was not like I was injured. I need something productive to do."


    "Hmm¡­ Alright. I''ll have your father send your new bodyguards to get you."


    "How''s dad?"


    "Your father is fine. Knowing that you are safe and sound, he is much better. He knows he raised a tough daughter."


    "Tell dad I love him. Love you too, Mom."


    "Mhm¡­ goodnight."


    Lena hung up the call. It is so boring in the hospital room. She was in a VIP room. It was big and luxurious.


    Although it was more decorated than normal rooms, the big and empty space makes her feel so lonely. She missed her tiny apartment. It was small, but she had everything to her liking and always felt safe and comfortable.


    Lena wondered if she was really injured and it wasn''t a secret, how many people would come and visit her.


    People say only in your miserable times, true friends and family will stay by your side. Lena smiled. All she needed was her parents, to be loved and cherished by them.


    She turned on the T.V. more some minor entertainment. The news was mainly about the entertainment industry.


    Famous actress Lily will be returning after her break abroad. Likewise, rising star Hazel will be returning after filming in America.


    Lena''s eyes glistened and she smiled.


    "Ah¡­ She is finally returning after 3 months."

 Chapter 41 - Her True Friends

    Lena was happy that one of her best friends is returning. Lena and Hazel had been friends earlier than she meeting Andy. Hazel was the younger cousin of Andy.


    For sure, Lena will get an earful from Hazel knowing that both of them are no longer together. She must make sure Hazel knows nothing about what recently happened to her.


    Hazel was very protective of Lena. One could say that Lena''s personality and attitude were groomed by Hazel. No doubt Hazel was able to survive and succeed in the acting business due to her strong, selfish, and manipulative behavior.


    Of course¡­. The world said Hazel was an angelic actress, but Lena knew all the dirty secrets of Hazel.


    Now that Lena thought of about, Hazel had a huge crush on Ming Zhao. One thing she never understood was why someone as spoiled as Hazel would like a geek like Ming Zhao. Guess it was how it was with her and Andy.


    She''ll be sure to introduce the two someday though. <3


    Best friends. Lena did have one more of those¡­


    She didn''t know when but she fell asleep while watching T.V. She slept peacefully that night, although Lena somehow wished she was dreaming something sweet again.


    Lena was woken up by some clattering noises. She opened her eyes to see an unfamiliar nurse. She quickly sat up.


    "Who are you?!"


    "Uh¡­ I¡­ I am just here to check your charts."


    Lena made sure to eyeball the nurse every move she made. The nurse pulled out Lena''s chart and looked at it.


    "So¡­ I see that you will be getting discharged this morning?"


    "I don''t know. You are the nurse aren''t you?" Lena gave a general answer.


    "When would you like to be discharged?"


    "Right now."


    "Ah... Ok...I can go get your discharge papers for you. Please wait for a moment."


    The nurse quickly left and Lena got out of the bed. She went to the bathroom to change already. She had to get out of this place. She can feel that she was getting paranoid from staying here too long.


    When she got out all dressed, the same nurse was waiting for Lena.


    "The papers?" Lena asked the nurse who seemed to have come empty-handed.


    "I just have to do a quick discharge checkup. I know that the doctor did one yesterday but this is the procedure."


    "Alright."


    Lena went back and sat on the bed. The nurse pulled out her stethoscope and flashlight. She did a few simple checkups. Somehow, Lena felt that this nurse was very slow. Is she new here?


    Lena just patiently complied to all the tests. She wanted to get out here!


    "Everything seems to check out. I will be back with the papers." The nurse smiled and left.


    Just then, two sturdy men knocked and entered the room.


    The quickly bow and introduced themselves.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen. We are your new appointed bodyguards. My name is Noah."


    "Hello, Miss. Shen. I am Kye."


    Lena gave them a quick glance. Her father definitely got her some bigger man. She doesn''t like it. Reminded her of how Eva walked around with her bodyguards. It makes you look like a weak little princess.


    "Nice to meet you two."


    Lena got up again and started packing her stuff. The stupid checkup already took her an extra 20 minutes. And somehow, the nurse was taking forever to come back with her discharge papers.


    Lena threw her bag to the one called Noah. "You go first. By the time we come out, I want to leave right away."


    "Yes."


    While the stupid nurse was taking her time, Lena decided to do her hair. She tied up her hair in a ponytail. She looked at herself and admired her beauty.


    Finally, the small nurse was back with the papers. Lena had a huge urge to yell at the young woman but held back. It is still too early to be yelling. Plus, she was here secretly and don''t wanna alert too much attention.


    She quickly signed the papers and left. Her car was waiting out back. She put on some sunglasses and head out. Somehow, this place seemed to be irritating her more. She was happy to be out of here.


    Just as she walked out the door, she heard her name called.


    "Wait! Miss. Shen!!"


    ''UGHHH... what now?!!''

 Chapter 42 - Cheap Apology

    Lena turned around.


    "You¡­ are?"


    "Hello, Miss. Shen. I am Collin, Secretary of Mr. Kris Li."


    Lena checked out the man. No wonder he looked very familiar. Lena saw that he was holding a bouquet of flowers.


    "Ah¡­ Mr. Li said these are for you." Collin carefully handed the flowers to Lena.


    This morning, Collin had the weirdest request from his boss ever, and it was to go purchase a bouquet of flowers. And even more shocking, it was to deliver to Miss. Shen.


    He was able to hack into the hospital records and see that she was getting discharge this morning but he did not know when. When they paid one of the nurses to go check, she called back that Miss. Shen was leaving right now.


    Collin had to rush to the hospital and told the nurse to stall for time so he could make it. All this hard work better pay off. He had been tortured from Madam Li and Kris Li so much the last few weeks.


    Lena took the flowers and twirled it around to get a good look at them. There was a card on it. She opened it and it said: Sorry. Lena scoffed.


    "Call your boss."


    "Ah??"


    "Call him. I want to thank him." Lena smiled so sweetly at Collin.


    Collin quickly called his boss. Just as Kris picked up the phone, Lena stole the phone from Collin before he could even greet his boss.


    "Mr. Li¡­ I want to thank you for the beautiful pink roses you sent me."


    "Miss. Shen? Well, I am glad that you have received them."


    "Of course." Lena quickly hung up before hearing Kris''s reply.


    Lena handed the phone back to Collin. Collin knew that he was in trouble¡­. The flowers were not pink roses...¡­. This lady was SO SMART. He just slowly droop his head.. Preparing for another scold.


    Lena glared at the man who stood still like a frightened dog.


    "You name was Collin right?"


    Collin gulped. Why does he get yell every time Lena Shen was involved. "Uh¡­ Yes."


    Lena held the bouquet of flowers and smack them to Collin as she spoke. "You¡­ You take these ugly cheap flowers back to that damn man and tell him that this is the most ridiculous apology gift."


    Lena finally threw the flowers to Collin who caught it clumsily. "Pffft¡­How poor is your boss to buy me some cheap flowers? How embarrassing!"


    Collin was silently crying in his heart. He was the one who bought them¡­ and they were not cheap flowers. *WUUU* He went to a high-end garden shop and the flowers were freshly picked this morning. They were high bred flowers that only bloom every so often.


    "Does he not know who I am? I am Lena Shen. Not some beggar on the streets that some flowers will suffice. And this note? I bet it was you who wrote it. This handwriting is too nice for a crappy man like him."


    Collin gulped again¡­ He was the one who wrote it! At least she said he had a nice handwriting.


    "Go tell that boss of yours that he has another 24 hours to apologize or else he knows what is coming his way."


    Lena turned away... Making sure her ponytail was flipping dramatically. As she turned away from Collin, she was grinning really big.


    Noah and Kye who witnessed the whole scene were also silently scared. When Lena''s father hired them, he did warn them that his daughter was a trouble maker and a stubborn woman.


    They ignore it mostly knowing that she must be like those other pampered and spoiled rich ladies. However, their lady boss was MORE scarier. They need to be more careful and alert.


    ''That was SOOOO FUNN!! I could be a superstar from my amazing acting skills!'' Lena cheered herself. She got into the car and it drove off.


    Collin sadly looked at the broken flowers. He threw it to the trashcan and went his own way to his car. What is going to say to his boss?! He can''t exactly say all the stuff Miss. Shen told him to say to his boss!


    His next few days are going to be hell!!!!

 Chapter 43 - Worse Friend

    "Where are you heading to, Miss?"


    Lena snapped out of her daydreaming. "Ah¡­ I am actually going to visit a friend. Here''s the address."


    Lena handed her phone to Kye who put the address into the GPS navigation. The ride was quite long. Lena had never visit Gary before.


    After a while, they were on the outskirts of town. When they finally arrived in front of Gary''s apartment complex, the bodyguards were extra cautious. They were in a not so safe area.


    To Lena though.. This was just a normal part of town. Lena got out of the car. There were a few people gathering around them. It is not every day that you see a rich people car and a pretty around here.


    "Noah. Stay in the car, just in case." Lena spoke and then entered the small apartment building with Kye. Kye was a big and tall man. His height was almost to the ceiling.


    Lena stopped in front of apartment room #18. ''This is it. Gary''s place.''


    Lena knocked on the door a few times. There was no answer. She knew that Gary was home¡­ this man never leaves his house.


    She knocked again, this time a bit harder. "Gary? It''s Lena."


    This time she can hear some scuffing and noises. But after a while, the door was still not opened. Lena got impatient.


    She pounded the door with both her hands, ignoring her manners and the noises she was causing for the neighbors.


    "You open the door right now or I will have my bodyguard knock this open. I won''t pay for the damages!"


    As expected, the sound of locks clinking was heard and the door finally opened. Gary stood still, staring at a flawless Lena and a big macho bodyguard, and then back at the beautiful Lena.


    "Are you sick?" Lena could see that Gary was still in his sleeping clothes, his hair was very messy, and his nose was red.


    "Just a little bit." He sniffed.


    Lena quickly touched his forehead in which he flinched a bit. He quickly blushed but he was already so red that it was unnoticeable.


    "Just a little bit? You are so hot. Have you taken some medicine."


    "It''ll pass."


    Lena sighed. "Kye, go buy some medicine."


    "Miss, I can send Noah instead. I must stay with you at all times."


    "It''s fine. Noah can sit out and see the door just fine from here. Gary is a friend and he''s sick, it''s not like he can tackle me down."


    Kye was reluctant to go but he did in the end. He glanced inside Gary''s place first to make sure it was safe before leaving.


    Lena entered Gary''s apartment and was amazed. His apartment was very clean compared to his messy behavior.


    "Where is your kitchen?"


    "Why?"


    "Obviously I am going to cook you something. You need to eat before you take your medicine."


    Gary coughed. ''Did he just hear that correctly? Lena was going to cook for him? He was supposed to be mad at her¡­''


    "Why do you care." He threw a baby pouting move. "You could not even bother to attend my competition."


    Lena stopped being so kind and gave the man a death glare. "Are you really going to play this game with me? To see who was a worse friend?"


    Gary did not respond and avoided meeting her eyes.


    Lena sat down across from Gary and folded her arms. "Where were you when I called you? EH? Did you know I got kidnapped?"


    Gary eyes widened. "I¡­ I"


    "Where were you when I was in the hospital hmm? What kind of friend are you to not visit me when I was on my deathbed huh?"


    "AHH" Gary quickly went on his knees and kowtow to Lena. "I am wrong! I am the worst friend. I am sorry." He sniffled each time he went down.


    He quickly got up and went to Lena. "Are you ok? Who took you? I will find them and revenge for you."


    Lena smiled. "How? You are sick¡­"


    "I¡­" Gary sneezed. "After¡­."


    "It''s fine. I already know who and I am taking care of it."


    Gary quickly hugged Lena. "I am sorry." He spoke softly. "I won''t get angry or ignore you again."


    "Are you trying to pass your sickness to me?" Lena muffled her replied through Gary''s tight hug. He let her go and rubbed his nose.


    "Now¡­ where is your kitchen?" Lena asked.


    Gary pointed in the direction of his kitchen. He was too tired this morning to cook something for him. He was planning to order something for him as usual.


    Lena headed to the fridge and opened it. As expected¡­ nothing. She opened the pantries and was glad that at least he had a few things here.


    "What are you going to make? Can you even cook?"


    "Are you kidding me? Remember how I took so many cooking classes so I can cook for Andy?"


    "Ah... you did huh." Gary chuckled. "And you didn''t fail as much as Hazel, ahahahah"


    Lena laughed with Gary. "Did you know she is back?" Lena asked.


    "Mhm¡­ saw it on the news."


    "We should go out and eat together sometimes."


    Gary stopped being happy¡­. He does not like Hazel. She bullied him a lot and always make fun of him. She was an evil Lena x100¡­.

 Chapter 44 - Home Cooked Meal

    Gary sat silently in the dining area, staring at Lena as she sweetly cooked herself away. He was very happy at this very moment.


    There had been countless times where he witnessed her cooking for Andy and how many times he wished she was cooking for him. Now, his wish was finally coming true.


    She said that she can handle herself about her kidnapping, but he will make sure the people who kidnapped her are gone. No one is allowed to harm Lena at all.


    ''I should be sick more often.'' Gary thought to himself.


    Gary''s apartment is not as small because he bought two apartments and combined them. The other room was where all his geek stuff were.


    Lena was cooking a simple rice porridge for Gary. There was not much he had but this should be good enough for him since he was sick. He should not be eating greasy take out foods when he is sick.


    During her college years, she took countless classes on dancing, cooking, music, and sewing. She wanted to be the perfect wife for Andy. Thinking back now, she was a very narrow-minded child chasing after love.


    There was a knock on the door. Lena went and open it. It was Kye. Lena told Kye to go back to the car with Noah. She will be done soon.


    Lena finished up her porridge and dish it to Gary. She plopped it down onto the table.


    "Eat that. There are a few more in the pot. Then take your medicine."


    "Are you leaving?"


    "I only came here to check on you. I have to get home before my parents have another heart attack."


    Gary took a bite and smiled. "It''s very good."


    "You get well, and then we can go shopping with Hazel."


    "Ehehehehe¡­ I look forward to it." Gary sarcastically laughed.


    Lena knew that the two don''t get along well together.


    -------------------------------------


    Before Lena even got out of the car when she reached home, her dad was already out and opened the door. Lena quickly got out to be hugged by her dad. Lena missed him too.


    He must have had it rough not seeing her the past day, especially after knowing that she was kidnapped.


    Lena hugged her father. "Sorry."


    "Don''t be. Daddy is sorry for not being able to protect you."


    Lena felt so happy to be loved. She was glad to come back home.


    "Come on in. Your mother and Aunt Mary cooked all your favorite."


    Lena smiled and they both went inside the mansion. The smell of the food was strong. As they both arrive, the dining table was full of seafood.


    There were lobsters, fish and lots of shrimps. Lena could never ask for more from such loving parents. Lena sat her father down first while she helped her mom and Aunt Mary bring the rest of the food to the table.


    They all sat down and Lena was quick to dive in. Although she had been eating well at the hospital, nothing is better than home cooked meals from her mom and Aunt Mary.


    "You should slow down. No one is going to steal the food away from you." Shen Milli said as she was looking at her daughter.


    "MHm¡­ they are really good. Thank you!"


    "So¡­ I heard CEO Li came and visit you at the hospital?" Her mother suddenly asked her.


    Lena coughed a few times, gulping down some water. She patted herself in the heart. "You hear wrong, Madam Li came to visit me. CEO Li was just there to accompany her."


    "Madam Li''s did want to deliver a gift to you."


    "That''s right. She was really happy about the opening ceremony." Lena smiled.


    "Are you going back to work tomorrow already? If it is still too early, you can rest for a few more days." Shen Mao spoke.


    "No need. Time is money."


    "Aiya¡­ You are starting to sound like your father. Working too much and forgetting about your health and family." Shen Milli commented.


    "Of course! I am my father''s baby!" Lena laughed.


    They all enjoyed a nice family dinner.

 Chapter 45 - Choosing Sides

    Lena headed back to her room after lunch. She needed to be in her comfort zone to begin her thought process. It has been several long hours for her, but she felt like she had aged a few years.


    Lena''s body wasn''t made for physical work. She could keep the body in shape but Lena won''t have time to conquer a full self-defense lesson. However, she needed to prepare for further situations that will endanger her life.


    She will need to order some new gadgets. She cannot always rely on others to come to her, especially if she cannot predict the outcome too.


    Gary had a connection to obtain some amazing items. She would need to contact him once he was feeling better.


    Lena sat down on her desk and logged into her laptop. She did not have time to look at the completed information Gary had sent her about the Three Kings beforehand but now was the time to know. Information is power.


    She already played an ace card on Ming Zhao. Although she has a blossoming partnership with him, he had always been a neutral party.


    If Lena wanted to play big and risky, she''ll need to hit the other two kings. Andy Yang, her first love, would be the easiest path to mend a relationship. Their families had been friends and close for a long time now.


    Lena also has Hazel to back her up if she needed that. But, this just seemed too simple. How can she look for a strong backer if the man she previously lived for, is too clouded in the mind due to his heart?


    Love can be a strength, but it is also the strongest weakness.


    Lena would have been more open-minded about Andy loving another person, but she knows that Eva was not a woman worth Andy''s love. But who is she to play the goddess of love?


    She needed to reevaluate who she should be close with and who are her enemies. And for that, Lena needed to make sure that she has some strong connections.


    You only live once. And you will experience death countless times, so Lena rather choose the riskier path. That means, she needed to be on the good side of the Li Group.


    Not only will she secretly get revenge on Andy for her broken heart, but she will also obtain a resource that can match any enemy she will encounter in the future.


    Kris Li was not a person one should get too close to nor too far away from. She will need a way into his circle.


    There must be something in these files that can help her. Lena spent a good amount of time looking through the information. However, there was very little on Kris''s childhood. Most of the information was after Madam Li woke up from her coma.


    What stood out to Lena was the situation on Madam Li''s accident. Although the driver was dead on the scene, the accident itself was too much of a coincidence. Madam''s Li security was always high and the car she was in was also custom made for gunfire and forceful impact.


    If Lena wanted to get into the good side of Kris Li, she''ll have to use the "mom" card one last time.


    -------------------


    Lena returned to work the next day. Although she had only been gone for a few days, SHYNE has been busy since their last successful launch. But before she went to the company, she had to make a stop.


    Noah parked the car outside an apartment building. Unlike Gary''s, this area was more luxurious but was still nothing compared to the rich lifestyle that Lena was used to.


    They both exited the car with Lena. Lena walked into the building and the elevator to floor 3. Her journey ended when she was standing outside a blue door. She knocked three times and waited.


    The door quickly opened. Lena was met with a tall well-built man, who was already dressed and prepared for the day. She smiled to greet the man.


    "Miss. Shen?"


    "Hello, James." She tilted her head down a bit and greeted him.

 Chapter 46 - But they are not you

    "What honor do I have to be visited by you?" James replied.


    "I am here for business. Can I come inside?"


    James glanced at the two big men with Lena and then back at her. He knew she doesn''t mean anything bad so he let her in.


    Lena sat down in the living room while James went to get some water. Noah and Kye stood by the entrance.


    James put the cups of water on the table and sat across Lena.


    "I am glad that you are well, Miss. Shen." Jame paused.


    "You don''t have to call that, after all, you are no longer working for the Shen family. You can just call me Lena."


    James was hesitant to call her that. "I am sorry that I was not able to protect you properly as I should have."


    Lena smiled and chuckled a bit. "This is why I like you."


    James just looked at her confusingly.


    "Actually this is the reason why I am here. I know my father dismissed you from your duties, but I want you to be my bodyguard."


    James was shocked. She still wanted him even though he had failed his duty to protect her? He glanced toward the two guards to see if they had any reaction knowing their master wanted someone different than them.


    "Don''t worry about them." Lena took a sip of the water. "They are my new bodyguards, hired by my father. But with you, I want you on my personal payroll."


    James seriously looked at Lena, trying to figure out what she was thinking.


    "Trust me, I will be sure my father will get the news of this that I visited you today and the content of my visitation." Lena stared at the two men, who tried really hard not to make it like that was false.


    Shen Mao is their real boss, and it was also their jobs to report the movements of Miss. Shen back to their boss.


    "Or are you worried about me not being able to pay you?" Lena asked.


    "That is not it." James quickly replied. He knew that Lena had started running some business of her own and definitely does not need her to leech off her parents'' wealth.


    "If I am paying you, I''ll know that you will be loyal to me."


    "But why me? There are definitely more competent bodyguards you can hire."


    "That''s true. But they are not you. During the time you have been with me, you have cared for me more than the big paycheck you receive in the end. You are a person with morals in your lifestyle and your work."


    James continued to listen.


    "I need someone who can protect me physically and mentally. He should know when to do as told, but also refute when needed."


    "Let me think about it."


    "Take your time. You''ll know how to contact me when you are ready."


    Lena left with her bodyguard. James cleaned up the water and sat back down to think about the offer.


    James has extensive talent in combat and other skills. Lena had only been the second person he had been officially assigned to guard. He would be considered a newbie in the field of bodyguard.


    Along with the mark that he was fired from that job, it was difficult for him to get another job. He could easily enter "other" businesses considered his skills but promised to never enter that kind of business after losing his wife and unborn child.


    And like Lena had said, he has his own morals that he followed. He hoped to become a bodyguard to protect people to redeem himself from his bad mistakes. However, Lena made him feel that his world was not always about redemption but personal perseverance.


    If he could protect someone, then he would protect someone like Lena, who was a growing pup in a world of hungry wolves. Many young women would have already been mentally broken down after such similar trauma, but now Lena. She was already back on her feet stronger than ever.


    James walked over to a wall that had a big portrait of his wedding photo. He stared at the beautiful reflection of his wife.


    ''Would our daughter have been this strong too?'' James smiled at the picture.

 Chapter 47 - Best Dad in the World

    The company was alerted and live today when they all saw that Lena returned from her break. Most workers had changed their views on her knowing that she had a huge success with the latest launch. There were a few who still believed she was leeching off others, considered she was not here during their busiest hours.


    Lena strode in with her usual flair and confidence, with two new bodyguards trailing behind her. They were not as handsome has the previous one, but they made her look even more unapproachable.


    When Lena arrived at her floor, Diane was already outside of her office.


    "Good morning, Miss. Shen."


    "Good morning."


    Lena walked into her office and Diane followed behind. She sat on her desk, ignoring the thick files that were there.


    "How have things been?"


    "The sales are rising. And the international designs are also a big hit."


    "Mhm¡­" Lena listened as she started skimming through her own paperwork.


    "And, the rings for Miss. Wu and Mr. Yang are completed."


    "Ah¡­ I had forgotten about that. Bring them to me."


    Diane quickly left and returned with a box containing the rings. Lena slowly opened them. She took each ring out of the boxes and inspected them.


    "You can leave. Make sure to contact Miss. Wu that the ring is ready." Lena returned the rings to their boxes and handed them back to Diane.


    Although the rings were to her perfection, but they were not hers. Her heart was still silently in pain even though she had told her brain multiple times that she was over him.


    Lena buried herself into her work. She has no time for some useless heartache. She worked fast to catch up on her work. When it was noon, the phone call she was waiting for arrived.


    "Dad¡­"


    "What are you thinking?!"


    "I am sorry, dad. You daughter is being selfish."


    Lena could hear her father sigh heavily on the phone. "If you don''t your new bodyguards, I can change them. You don''t need to bother yourself to go and re-hire James."


    "YOUR bodyguards are fine."


    "Lili¡­"


    "Dad¡­ you know how picky I am. You specifically chose James before because you saw that he could work well with me. He didn''t make a mistake, he obeyed a command. I was the one who made the mistake to send him away from me."


    "You are blaming yourself so I feel bad, huh?"


    "Is it working?" Lena smiled at her dad''s joke. "I appreciate all the care and love you had given me. You had finally started letting me be more independent, and I want you to trust me on this too."


    "You are my daughter after all¡­ I will always believe you."


    "You are the best dad in the world."


    "Lili..?"


    "Hmmm, Dad."


    "Andy''s engagement is coming up soon. You don''t have to attend it if you do not want to."


    Lena''s heart softened. She really had the best dad in the world! "I will go. Andy had always been there for me. I should be there for him too. Some things are just not meant to be."


    "If anyone bullies you, you tell your daddy."


    "Mhmm!"


    Lena hung up the phone. It is true, Lena and Andy were not meant to be. She has to believe that, or else¡­ she won''t know what horrible things she could do.


    Diane knocked on the door. "Miss. Shen? You have an unscheduled visitor. He said that he is Secretary Collin."


    Lena smiled. She had forgotten that Kris Li was still supposed to be apologizing to her. She had been racking her brains on how to get along with him, but has she not already been doing that lately?


    "Send him in."

 Chapter 48 - Second Attempt

    Diane nodded and went to retrieve the guest. A few minutes later, Secretary Collin entered the office holding a box. It was a glittery box that quickly caught the eyes of Lena.


    "I did not expect to see you so soon, Secretary Collin." Lena greeted the man.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen."


    Lena gestured the man to sit in which he did. He held out his arm to hand Lena the box.


    "I made sure my boss picked the gift personally this time. He hopes that it is to your liking."


    Lena took the box like it was any other item. She made sure to hide her emotions well. She carefully opened it to be faced with a pearl necklace.


    It was not just any ordinary pearl necklace, it was a limited edition necklace from the latest Princess Elisa collection. This was the most known western high-end jewelry brand. Even as one of the top jewelry brands in China, Lena would never be able to attend such an event to see their items.


    Of course, Lena would not show how excited and appreciative she was. Never show your true feelings to those whom you do not trust. Lena quickly shut the box with a loud slam.


    "Huh¡­ when have I upgraded from a poor cheap lady to a mistress?"


    Collin, who was so proud of his work this morning, almost died from her tone. Even though Collin selected two final gifts, and Kris needed only to select one, it took a lot of effort for that stubborn man to just point.


    Lena put slapped her hands on her forehead. "Ugh¡­ I feel like this is a breakup gift that someone would give to their mistress just so she would stop pestering the man. Am I like that?"


    Lena stared at Collin with puppy eyes.


    "No! Absolutely not, Miss. Shen. I assure you that Kris Li specifically picked this and thought it would best suit you as an apology."


    Lena slouched her shoulders. "Then why is it so hard for the man to just call me and say: I am sorry."


    "Ah.. I.. ummm."


    "It''s fine." Lena rubbed her head like she was getting a headache. "I did not know that asking for a simple apology was so hard for him. You can leave."


    Lena waved her hands at him, signaling him that he could leave.


    "Miss. Shen.. I."


    "You have done great. If there is ever a time you get bored of working for him, my doors are open."


    Lena finally looked up and smiled slightly at the man.


    "Ah.. then, I''ll take my leave."


    Collin left as swiftly as he can. His job was basically done right? He should not try to cause more trouble. She accepted the gift so technically that means she accepted the apology, right?


    He called his boss when he got out to tell him that the job was done. Collin had bothered Kris so much about this in the last 24 hours that the nagging worked. Kris said he can have the rest of the day off if the job was completed.


    Collin was quick to leave, he can finally have some quality time with his girlfriend!


    When Collin left, Lena opened the box again to admire the shiny thing. She knew that even though Kris may have indeed picked the item, he probably didn''t even flinch to choose and move on to the next thing he needed to do in his life.


    No effort at all. She did really just want to hear the simple words of "I am sorry".


    Diane knocked on the door again. "Sorry, Miss. Shen. But you have another guest."


    "Hmm? Another one?"


    "He said that he is your friend, Gary?"


    "Next time you can let him in even if I am busy. He is an important friend."

 Chapter 49 - Not Him

    Gary entered the room. He was wearing nice clothes and carrying some boxes.


    "Did you eat lunch? I got takeouts." He spoke.


    "I did not eat yet."


    Gary placed the food on the table and started opening them. The aroma of food made Lena''s stomach grumbled. She walked over to look at all the tasty food. If she remembered correctly, they were several varieties of street food that she was not able to taste last time.


    "I saw a man leave from your office. Why are you associated with Kris Li?"


    Lena stopped drooling and stared at the man. Gary usually never use his serious tone of voice on her.


    "Secretary Collin just came to deliver something on behalf of Kris Li. It''s nothing big."


    Gary stared back at Lena, trying reading everything about her. Other than Hazel, only he can read her emotionless state. He spent years chasing Lena, so reading everything about her was a talent he accumulated.


    He ruffled his hair and sighed. He stood up and walked over to Lena.


    "I was waiting til after we eat to tell you, but I guess I can tell you now."


    "What is it? That seriousness tone of yours is giving me the chills, I do not like it one bit."


    "Was it him?"


    Lena didn''t reply, but she knew what Gary was implying with that question.


    "I know you told me not to look into it, but you know me, I can never let something this big go. Nor let you deal with it alone. Lena, listen to me carefully. It wasn''t Kris Li who put this hit on you?"


    "What? This one?" Lena stepped back and glanced at the pearl necklace on her desk. "Why would he not deny it when I confronted him?"


    She was confused. Kris Li isn''t a man to put off with her hassling if he really had nothing to do with it.


    "There were two hits on you. I couldn''t trace both hits but if Kris Li was one, then it made sense."


    "Two?" Lena was shocked. If Kris Li was one, who was behind the other one?! For sure she had not made any enemies yet that wanted her to end up in such bad shape.


    "Kris Li has a huge underworld reputation, he doesn''t need to pay anyone to do the dirty work for him. With one command, many groups would offer to do his biddings if that meant being on the good side with him."


    Gary continued. "However, the Beast Gang did their work based on money. The second hit offered a bounty on you. That one was not done by Kris Li."


    "But he still put a hit on me though?"


    "He did. That one has been retracted. I believe it was the day you were released from the hospital. The other hit is still active though."


    Lena sat down on the sofa. She had to process this new information and think.


    "Could the hit on me be directed to the Shen family? Since they didn''t want me dead, just¡­. in bad shape." Lena asked.


    "I don''t know." Gary sat down with Lena. However, she suddenly stood up and walked to her desk.


    Lena stared at the pearl necklace again. It was indeed expensive, but now, looking at it, Lena knew what it meant.


    Lena chuckled. "He sent me a pearl necklace to mock me. To show me that I lack the experience compared to him."


    Lena closed the pearl necklace container, grabbed her bag and started to walk out.


    "Where are you going?" Gary yelled back.


    "To see him."


    "What about lunch?"


    Lena stopped and stared at the delicious lunch on the table. "After lunch then¡­"

 Chapter 50 - I want him.

    Lena told Gary to leave first but he was reluctant to let her go meet Kris Li by herself. Even though she had her own bodyguards, he still needed to make sure he was with her.


    He was at least able to force her to complete her paperwork before leaving that evening. They headed to Li Group company but was told that CEO Li was already out for the evening.


    With that, there was only one other place that Kris Li could be at, Red Moon Club.


    Lena was able to enter the club easily since she was a frequent member of the club. She quickly entered the club with her men and headed straight to the VIP lounge.


    She knew which room Kris was in. It was quite obvious with all the cool looking men outside the room. Lena walked up to the room to be stopped by one of them.


    "Tell him that I want to talk to him." She raised her hands up. "I''ll be sure to stay 3 feet away from him at all times."


    "Keso, let her in." Kris''s voice could be heard through the big doors. The man stepped away and opened the door for Lena.


    Lena glanced back at her bodyguards. "You two can stay out here."


    She walked into a luxurious red and black room that was only slightly lit. She blinked a few times to adjust her eyes to the setting. She spot Kris sitting down in the end by himself, drinking casually.


    He twirled his glass around. "Did you not like the gift?" He asked sarcastically.


    Lena sat to the side with Gary. "It was perfect."


    "What do you ------" Before Kris could finish, the door slammed open with a breathless Lay.


    "BOSS! Miss. Lena is in the bui..l...ding¡­" Lay''s voice died down when he spotted Lena, who was already sitting comfortably. "Nevermind, don''t mind me."


    He was about to walk out when Kris spoke his an angry tone. "Stay."


    Lay cleared his throat and sat across from Lena. "Good evening, Lena Shen."


    Lena nodded at Lay but gave her attention back to Kris Li.


    "You knew that there was a second hit on me." Lena spoke first.


    "Not at first. When I visited you that day, I had high hopes of a worthless woman lying before me." His nonchalant and cold tone gave Lena a fright.


    His eyes were extra dark and scary in the large empty room. "To my surprise, you were not scratch one bit. I had already suspected something by then."


    "So?" Lena asked.


    Kris finally looked at Lena, eye to eye. He also finally spotted Gary with her. He at first assumed that it was one of her bodyguards that entered the room with her. This woman is full of surprise isn''t'' she. He slightly smiled.


    "After I left, I finally looked into the real situation. My people would never have failed me so badly. A failure is equivalent to death."


    Kris poured a glass of wine and slid it across the table to Lena. However, she continued to stare at Kris for him to continue.


    "I could torture and kill a woman, but I would never defile a woman."


    Somehow, with his cold tone of voice and deathly stare, Lena believed him.


    "Do you know who is behind the other group?" She asked curiously.


    "Why would I tell you? They are none of my business and so are you."


    Lena finally took the glass of wine and took a sip. Yummy. The wine had a very exquisite taste.


    "So you do know?"


    "I do."


    Lena placed the glass down and turned again toward Kris. "What would it take for you to tell me?"


    Kris was finally interested. His eyes perked up and his sly smile returned. "I want him."


    "Huh?" Lena followed Kris stare at Gary. Did he want Gary? What for?!!

 Chapter 51 - Exchange of Information

    "Let me borrow him." Kris clarified.


    "No!" Lena was quick to reject. She won''t offer a friend away like this. Gary was not for sale!


    "Then, no information."


    "It''s alright." Gary finally spoke. He was quiet throughout the whole time trying to read Kris. He knew that when Kris first saw him, Kris knew who Gary really was.


    It was not a surprise that Kris was a person with connections and a web of information. Kris was a man that Gary would never be involve with, but for Lena, he didn''t mind.


    "No!" Lena stared back at Gary. "I won''t let him have you, not even for a second! Just because he doesn''t like woman, doesn''t mean that he can have you if he wanted to. He already has that young and cute looking man there already."


    Lena pointed at Lay who was in rejection. Lay was shaking his head and looking at Kris for protection! He can''t be accused of being with Kris, all his women will not approach him anymore! On the other hand, Kris was choking from his drink.


    `What is this woman thinking?! That he is into men?''


    Lena didn''t know because her back was facing Kris but the glares she was getting from Kris was as if he was sending someone to hell. Gary, however, saw them.


    Gary held Lena''s hand with his left hand and flicked her forehead with the other. "You are overthinking." He smiled.


    "Ah??" Lena rubbed her forehead. ''Was she not correct again?''


    "You can have me for one job." Gary spoke directly at Kris. Luckily Kris settled down his anger from the response earlier.


    "One job will do. Do you agree, Miss. Shen?" Kris asked.


    Lena turned back to face Kris. She did not know entirely what was going on between the two men but she trusted Gary. "Very well then."


    "It would spoil the fun if I told you who it was directly."


    Lena stared at the man, throwing knives at him. ''Is he playing hard now? Didn''t they just agree?''


    "As a real apology from me, I will give you a free lesson. I will give you a hint and you can find the person on your own."


    Lena did not respond. Kris took it as if she was up for the challenge.


    "When I looked deeper into the situation, I found out that the entire Beast gang was eliminated. Not a single one of them was left alive. I would do the same thing if a similar situation happened to me. However, your relationship with Ming Zhao is not to that extent."


    Lena finally understood what Kris was suggesting. Why would Ming Zhao go through all the extra work just for her?


    "Are you saying Ming Zhao had something to do with it?"


    "Is it so hard to believe?" Kris asked back.


    "He wouldn''t dare break our business partnership." Lena was sure of it.


    "Ming Zhao had never associated himself with the underworld or anything dirty. However, he didn''t bat an eye to destroy the lives of many people in one day. He is either protecting himself or someone else."


    Lena''s eyes widened. Project Crystal, Ming Zhao''s family, and his inheritance is everything to him. If there was one thing that he may value somewhat, then she knew who Kris was referring to.


    However, Lena can''t be jumping to conclusions again. She needed 100% confirmation this time before she hit back.


    "You won''t have Gary."


    Kris stood up from his seat. "You agreed!"


    "You also adjusted the terms on your own. You can''t have him. Instead, I will exchange something of equal value."


    Kris sat back down. He was interested again. He was correct to say that Lena Shen was full of surprises.


    "What information could you possibly have that is of equal value?" Kris spoke.


    "The person behind Madam Li''s accident." Lena spoke loud and clear.

 Chapter 52 - Are we friends?

    "What?"


    "I can give you some information about Madam Li''s accident."


    "Heh¡­ it was a simple car accident. The driver who crashed into my mother was dead immediately from the impact." Kris responded uninterestedly.


    Lena tried to read Kris''s face, but she was not as skillful as Gary when reading other people.


    "There was another man you were looking for. It took you a few years to even find him, but you still don''t know his identity or location. I can help you with that."


    Kris burst into loud evil laugh. "I have really underestimated you. No surprise you were able to get this information." Kris stared at Gary who swallowed from Kris''s glare.


    "I should cover my tracks more¡­" Kris stared at Lay who got the notion of what his boss meant. Lay was in charge of these type of stuff, but how can he compare his skills to the legendary computer hacker himself, the man named Gary.


    "Is this of equal value?" Lena asked.


    "Enough."


    Lena smiled. "I have seen that man a few times." Lena took out a photo from her bag. "At the Yang''s mansion."


    Kris took the photo and looked at it. Lay, who had been searching far and wide scooted next to Kris to look at the photo too.


    It was indeed the man they had been looking for several years now. How did Lena obtain this information? Were they not able to find much on him because he was hidden by the Yang Family? There was never any tensions between the three Kings and their families, why would the Yang be involved with this man?


    "That is my information for you. You can further investigate it yourself." Lena stood up to leave. Their business was done here.


    She stopped at the door and smiled at Kris one last time. "They said that the enemy of my enemy is my friend, so are we friends?"


    "Depends¡­ Do I get to use that man as much as I want and for free?" Kris nodded towards Gary.


    Lena scoffed. "You are an impossible man." She quickly grabbed hold of Gary''s hand and left the suffocating room.


    Noah and Kye followed out her as she rushed out of Red Moon Club. When they finally exited the building, Lena stopped and breathed in some fresh air.


    However, she did not forget to ask why Gary was so intriguing to Kris. Many women had enticed Kris for a glance from him but for the first time, Kris paid more attention to Gary than Lena. Lena was slightly jealous inside.


    Lena and Gary entered the car but Lena continued to eye Gary.


    "Why do you keep looking at me like that."


    "I am thinking."


    "Thinking about what?"


    "Thinking about what good looks you have that he was staring at you more than me."


    Gary laughed. "I told you, you are overthinking. And, you look better than me in everything."


    "DId he wanted you because of your skills?" Lena was at least able to decipher that.


    Gary stopped his smiled. "Don''t worry about it. My skills are only for you."


    "I never asked before because I never cared about it. But now, I care about you."


    Gary''s heart pounded faster. He knew that she meant as a friend but those words were magic to his heart.


    "You don''t have to tell me, but make sure you won''t ever get hurt. I can barely protect myself¡­ I can''t protect you too." Lena was a bit sad when she spoke the truth.


    "I am really fine!"


    Lena''s phone rang and she quickly picked it up.


    "Hazel!!" She answered. Gary smiled slouched and his mood died.


    "I miss you! Where are you now?" Hazel asked.


    "I am with Gary at the moment."


    "The nerd?!"


    "Hey! He is an important friend."


    "When did he become important? Are you sure he''s just not a fallback from my cousin?"


    "YAHH! You are so mean!"


    "I am just joking with you. Let''s meet up."


    "Okay."

 Chapter 53 - Our Little Secret

    After the call, Hazel texted Lena the location to meet them. It was their usual restaurant that they usually meet at, Hades. Hades, like it''s name, was a unique place matching it''s theme of the underworld.


    The area has an aura like it is a place for shady business, but it was mostly a secure and secluded area for people to have a private meeting and a chilled time.


    The three restaurants: Zues, Poseiden, and Hades are won by Hazel''s family. Her father is the younger brother of Andy''s father. The restaurants were also very popular places for celebrities due to is unique environment and security. They don''t need to worry about crazy fans or people being disruptive of their privacy.


    Lena gave her focus back to Gary, who was slouched on the seat and staring out the car window. She could not tell what he was thinking about. They have gotten closer and she hopes that he can also get closer with Hazel, despite her disruptive attitude.


    "You don''t have to go if you don''t want to." Lena assured him.


    "It''s fine." He was still calm, looking out the window. Seemed like he was deep in thought.


    "You sure? No take backs. Once we are there, you can''t run away like last time."


    "I don''t know if a man devil is worse or a female devil." Gary silently mumbled. He was referring to Kris Li to Hazel. He didn''t know that escaping one devil will lead you to another.


    "What did you say? I did not hear you clearly."


    "I just said that I will go, so don''t worry."


    "Ok. However, there is one thing that I need you to do."


    Gary turned back to see Lena seriously speaking to him. He stopped daydreaming and smiled. "What one thing?"


    "You can''t tell Hazel about my kidnapping. Not a single word about it."


    "This is going to be our little secret?"


    Lena hated keeping information from Hazel, but she was very short-tempered and a more extreme uncontrollable woman. If Hazel knew about this situation, she will blow up the problem and cause trouble with anyone involved. And in the end, Lena and even the Yang family cannot save her.


    There had been a few times when Hazel had gone out of the way to do things, but the Yang family were strong enough to hide her troubles. But Lena cannot guarantee the same protection if Hazel went against Kris Li.


    She barely made it out alive from him, Lena doubt someone like Hazel will survive in his territory. She should stick to her career, hot boys and drama lifestyle. Hazel was like your typical villainess: steaming hot, feisty, full of fake masks, a white lotus, and not a lot of brain cells.


    Lena definitely got influenced a lot by Hazel, but the new Lena has somewhat changed. Lena knew that continuing to be a villainess will result in a bad ending.


    Sometimes, Lena wondered why she continued to stick around Hazel, who was mainly a ticking time bomb. You don''t know when she will do something bad or something good. There was just something strong about their friendship that cannot be explained.


    "Hazel doesn''t have self-control like you. So, no matter what, you can''t mention a word about this. Promise?"


    "Ok. Do we need to do pinky promise?"


    Gary was kind of happy to know that Lena has been trusting him more. He knew that Hazel and Lena had a tight friendship. They had never hidden anything from each other. This was probably the first secret that Lena will hide from Hazel.


    "Are you a kid?" Lena retorted back.


    "No¡­ I thought this was a girl thing¡­isn''t it?" Gary blushed.


    "So childish! Should we bump fists instead?" Lena joked back.


    Lena paused and directed her next lecture toward her two bodyguards. "And you two, not a word from both of you too."


    They both nodded. They knew better than going against her. She had already want her old bodyguard back! They must continue to perform well! A woman like her can always go tattle on her father, who was their boss!


    The car finally stopped outside of Hades. Lena and Gary both walked into the restaurant along with her two bodyguards. Lena quickly strode toward Hazel''s private room.


    "Lena Shen?" A small delicate voice called her name. Lena felt like people have been calling her name so much lately. Is she becoming the main female lead now?


    She stopped in the hallway. It was Eva Wu who called her name. Of course such angelic voice like that can only come from the real female lead.


    "Eva Wu, did you need something?"


    "I didn''t think that I would be seeing you here."


    "I should say that to you. I have been here more often than you. Probably every worker here knows me."


    Eva looked down a bit in defeat. "Uh... I heard that the rings were done."


    "What rings?" Andy Yang popped out of the room. He sweetly glanced at Eva then looked to see Lena. "Lena?"


    "Hello." Lena replied.


    "Long time no see. And.. you to.. Gary." Andy finally got a good look at the handsome young man standing next to Lena.


    Somehow, he felt a bit agitated to see Lena with Gary. In the past, he knew that Lena was just using Gary for miscellaneous tasks. Was it bothering him now because they are not together no more?


    Even so, Gary looked more manly and handsome now that he was the last time Andy saw him. He cleared his throat and focused back on his woman. He should not care for what Lena choose to do now.

 Chapter 54 - Hazel

    "Your engagement rings." Lena replied to Andy''s question.


    Andy looked at both of the girls confusingly. Lena could see that Andy was clueless about the rings getting done by SHYNE. Didn''t Eva say that both of them wanted the best rings? Shouldn''t Andy know about it then?


    "I asked Lena to work on them." Eva replied hesitantly but also sweetly to Andy. Andy stared back at Lena with questioning eyes.


    ''Excuse me, girl?! Don''t start putting more trouble on my door.'' Lena''s sassy attitude exploded internally.


    "The proposal was originally sent to my mother who was in charge of SHYNE at that moment. However, I had recently taken charge of SHYNE thus that came along with the full responsibility of all SHYNE proposal and projects. Are you against me designing your rings?" Lena sternly asked Andy.


    "I have no problem. If Eva wants it that way then I am fine with it. I have no doubt that they are any less than perfect if done by the Shen Jewelry Industry. I was just not aware of the full situation."


    Lena smiled. "That seems like something to be discussed between you two. If there is any conflict with my side of the transaction, then you can contact me. I am sorry, but I am meeting up with someone and it would be rude of me to keep that person waiting."


    Lena professionally excused herself. She strode away with her men with her usual queen-of-the-world flair. Andy''s eyes followed her leaving the hallway until he could not see her anymore. There was definitely something different about her.


    "Andy?" Eva nudged Andy who then blinked and looked back at her. She smiled. "You are not mad at me for not telling you right?"


    "I am not mad at you." Andy caressed her cheeks. "I told you before, you can do whatever you want. I want you to be happy."


    "Ok." Eva smiled and both walked back into their private room.


    When Lena arrived at Hazel''s private room, she noticed that Hazel was already semi-drunk. No surprise.


    "Lenaaa!" Hazel jumped up quickly to go hug Lena.


    Hazel was just a bit taller than Lena. She has long black wavy hair. Hazel had had a few surgeries on her face and body, but nothing too major because she was a famous actress. Hazel kept her body in shape all the time. She made sure her girl parts were always the golden parts about her.


    "Are you drunk already?" Lena asked.


    "No way!" Hazel finally released Lena from the hug. "Heeeyyyy Gary." She winked.


    Gary turned away and sat by himself. Hazel dragged Lena to sit with her. She had already ordered their typical dinner dishes.


    "What took you so long?" Hazel asked while she was already dishing food to her plate.


    "Nothing much. Just bumped to some unimportant people."


    "Did you get bullied? Who dares?! I will go fight them for you."


    "No need. I can handle them myself."


    "YOURSELF?! Then why did you let that peasant get the best of my cousin?"


    Lena paused. She can''t exactly say that she was not the real Lena and her feelings are not with Andy anymore. How should she go about this?


    "Andy¡­ Most first love are not meant to be."


    "Do you still love him?"


    "I don''t."


    "Don''t lie to me."


    "I would never lie to you." Lena stared straight into Hazel''s eyes.


    "Then do you love him?" Hazel nodded towards Gary, who had been just chilling and eating while listening to the conversation. This was usually how he was when he was with them.


    "No. Gary is as much as an important friend as you."


    "Then do you love someone else?"


    "No."


    "How can you get over my cousin so fast? You had chased him for years! Even I am still hung up on my ex¡­."


    Lena stopped and pondered again. "Andy was the only man I saw in my eyes for all the years that I had been with him. I always knew that he never loved me as much as I did for him. However¡­"


    "However?"


    "I was very angry and emotional when he broke off the engagement, but for the first time in my life, I saw a new world without Andy being my number one priority. I finally stopped and stared at the people around me. I finally saw that there are more amazing people out there. Definitely much more capable and handsome men in the world."


    "Woah¡­ did you finally get laid?!"


    Lena friendly punched Hazel on her arm. "Do you think I am you? Opening my legs for every handsome man I meet?"


    Hazel burst into a loud laugh. "I am just playing with you. I am trying to cheer you up! I will hook you up with someone."


    "I don''t need your hookups. I am perfectly beautiful enough to find my own man."


    "Wow. I left for a few months and my Lena has sprouted some butterfly wings!"


    Lena smiled. "Are you proud of me?"


    "You''re still my student¡­ that is until.." Hazel looked down Lena''s legs. "You ----"


    Lena poked at Hazel again. "Your mind had gone more perverted. Are you even a woman?"


    "Of course I am. Do you not see my big boobs?!" Hazel dropped down her eating utensils and jiggled her large breasts. Gary just put his hand on his forehead.


    Hazel had always been so open about herself. Whenever he was with them, he was either treated as another "girlfriend" or nonexistent. There had been multiple times he was with them when Hazel talk about her woman habits and her sexual adventures. Gary had perfected the technique to filter out Hazel.

 Chapter 55 - Breakdown

    Lena shook her head. This woman was always too proud of herself. They all enjoyed the dinner, and Hazel kept drinking non-stop. Gary and Lena were safe drinkers. They knew how to properly drink and still have fun. Plus, hangovers are not worth their time. They are busy people.


    Lena wondered if they were here to cry out her "broken heart" or Hazel''s. Regardless, Lena entertained with Hazel all night long. They talked about her filming abroad and some more gossip on men.


    Hazel was too drunk in the end. But she had her own men to escort her home. Lena and Gary made sure she got to her car safe before leaving themselves. Luckily this time, they didn''t bump into Andy and Eva again.


    Lena was very silent on the way sending Gary back to his apartment. Gary did not bother to say anything much too in the car ride. He himself was exhausted from Hazel''s nagging about Gary and hooking him up with celebrities.


    Gary didn''t know but Lena was going through an internal battle herself. The car stopped at his apartment. The night sky was cleared and the stars were very visible. There was a slight cool breeze, but nothing too cold to worry about.


    The lights outside his apartment were well lite. He could see that most people were already in bed.


    "Goodnight." Gary opened his doors to get out. However, Lena suddenly grabbed the end of his shirt.


    "Can I stay over tonight?"


    "What?" Gary replied back in astonishment. He can feel that cold chills of four invisible eyes staring at him.


    "I.." Before Lena could reply, she sniffled and cried.


    "Umm.." Gary didn''t know what to do. He never saw a girl cried before so he didn''t know how to comfort them. "I didn''t even say no. Don''t cry."


    He patted her shoulders. He could see that he was going to get beat up soon. He really didn''t do anything! Lena silently continued to sob.


    "You can stay, you can stay. I have a guest room you can sleep in." He honestly thought that Lena was crying because he was not going to allow her to stay.


    Gary softly hugged Lena and guided her out of the car. He could still hear her soft sniffles, indicating that she was still crying. ''Oh god, this is so painful! Woman''s tears are never to be underestimated!''


    "You guys can pick me up tomorrow." Lena was able to muffle that out to her bodyguards.


    Seeing her in such a state, they just nodded in response. Of course, they would have to spend the night here secretly to make sure she was fine. They also need to be close by in case something happens to her.


    Gary quickly went up to his apartment with Lena. He opened the door and sat her down on the sofa before standing up to turn on the lights.


    "Leave them off." Lena sniffled.


    Gary stopped and stared back at Lena. Even in the dark, he could tell that she was trying really hard not to cry. He walked over and held her.


    "It''s ok. You can cry." Gary patted her head. And with that soft approval, Lena cried loudly.


    She had thought that she had fully convinced herself that she didn''t need tears. She had been standing strong so tall, but when she met Hazel tonight and lied straight to her face, everything that she had pushed herself through came crashing onto her.


    She knew that she couldn''t share this with Hazel, not like the previous times she had broken down about things. Maybe the doctor was correct, she should talk to someone. She wiped her tears on Gary''s shirt and stopped crying.


    "Can you be my Hazel tonight?" Lena softly asked.


    "Should I go stuff myself with some clothes and jiggle my breasts?"


    Lena laughed a bit. "I just need a friendly ear."


    "Mhm...I have two, I can share one." Gary replied.


    They were silent for about 10 minutes before Lena spoke. "I don''t have nightmares when I sleep. But I can still vividly remember what happened that night. I can recall the gunshots and the bloody body falling onto me."


    "I was really scared when I got shot at. It was frightening to know that no one might come and save you. And I was scared knowing that I might not make it out the next day the same. I kept telling myself that someone will come, and I just needed to stall for time. But in the back of my head, I already made the conclusion that if no one came, I would rather die than go through all of that."


    "Don''t say that. No matter what happens, your parents, Hazel, and I will still love you."


    "I know. I know that now. Thank you."


    Lena closed her eyes as Gary still held her, making sure she felt safe.


    "I will be stronger¡­ No, I am stronger. I will make sure my enemies won''t dare lay a finger on me anymore."


    "If you need anything, know that I am always here."


    Lena sat up, releasing herself from the embrace. "Gary, you are a really good Hazel." She smiled. Gary chuckled softly.


    "How are you going to get your revenge?" Gary asked.


    "Holding onto grudges makes you weak. The same thing as me holding onto a man for years. You get blindsided and do irrational things. It''s about protecting yourself and the people you care about. So if someone wants to harm me and my family, then I just need to get rid of them first."

 Chapter 56 - New Partnership

    "When we met with Kris Li, you said his enemy was your enemy. Is it someone from the Yang Family? Andy?"


    "No. Andy is a smart man, he wouldn''t do something so careless. And besides, Andy and Ming Zhao have no relationship for Ming Zhao to be helping him."


    "But you do have someone in mind? I can tell from the look of your eyes."


    "I do, but I will let the opportunity arise to confirm my assumption. At the moment, I will play defense."


    Lena plopped herself back and lay down on the sofa. "Are you tired? I can get the guest room ready for you."


    Lena was tired¡­ from all the crying. "Nah¡­ I am going to leave."


    "Did you not say you wanted to stay overnight?"


    "I just wanted to brawl out my feelings to a friend. Plus, I don''t have any clothes here and I have to work early tomorrow."


    "It''s late." Gary said worryingly.


    Lena got up and walked towards the window. "As I assumed, they are still out there."


    Gary got up too and looked out with her. He spotted a black car, hiding peacefully in the dark, not too far from the apartment.


    "Where is your bathroom? I''ll stay here for a bit until my eyes are not red and puffy then I''ll leave. Just in case they think you did something bad to me."


    Lena also did not want to show people her in a vulnerable state too. She washed her face and Gary brought her some snacks and they sat and watched some late night news.


    Lena was feeling more cheerful and relaxed. It was a good thing to release all that stress. She stayed for a while longer. When it was 3 am, Lena turned off the television. She looked to her side to see Gary already cuddled up on the sofa and asleep.


    She smiled. She went to find his room so she could grab a blanket for him. However, lots of his rooms were locked with a security passcode, so Lena just rolled her eyes.


    ''What did he have here that is so important?''


    Lena walked back to Gary who was still sleeping soundlessly. She bent down on the floor and stared at his baby face.


    "Thank you." Lena whispered. "Thank you for not leaving me."


    With that, she silently left the apartment. The doors auto unlock so it was all good. She walked out of the apartment and her car already drove up front. Noah and Kye already say her the moment she got out. She entered the car and it drove off.


    "Just take me to Highland Hotel." It was already late and she does not want to drive all the way back to the mansion. Highland Hotel was near SHYNE so it would be easy to get to work tomorrow. She''ll just text Diane to stop by and bring her some clothes in the morning.


    --------------------------------------------


    Although Lena only had a few hours of sleep, she looked like she slept for a decade. Her face was still flawless and her energy was to the sky.


    Diane came by the morning to give Lena her change of clothes. Lena had a morning meeting with foreign investors. It was important that she was there since SHYNE had hoped to enter the international market. She arrived at the company early so make sure her staff was ready to greet their guests.


    Lena was already in the meeting room. Diane had informed her that they had arrived. A middle-aged woman walked into the room shortly afterward. Her blonde hair was beautifully tied into a bun and a few men followed behind her.


    "Hello, Mrs. Reynolds." Lena spoke in perfect English to greet the woman.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen." The lady replied. Both groups greeted each other and then sat down on the long table.


    Angela Reynolds was the head designer of LUX, a high-end jewelry company in the United States. SHYNE''s spring jewelry set was a success and hearing that the company wanted to expand outward, LUX offered a partnership with them.


    Her team presented a proposal about their partnership. SHYNE wanted to introduce western designs in their products while LUX wants to introduce eastern designs in the States. Merging and sharing of resources will benefit both companies greatly.


    But not only that, SHYNE was very few of the companies that produce their own raw materials used for their jewelry. A partnership with SHYNE also means access to these resources.


    In the past generations of the Shen family, they had monopolized their raw materials, but times were changing. Lena only accepted to hear the proposal only after getting approval from the Shen elders.


    "With our partnership, SHYNE growth output will increase by 40% internationally and an annual profit upped by 26% for the first few years." The main presenter spoke.


    The numbers were about the same as Lena had evaluated the proposal. Both parties had already drafted the contract and they only need to review the final draft and sign. They an hour to finalize the agreement.


    "It is a pleasure to be in partnership with LUX." Lena shook the hands of Mrs. Reynolds.


    "Thank you. I look forward to success!"


    Lena had invited them to lunch but Mrs. Reynolds already had an appointment scheduled. Lena walked their new business partners out. Lena went back up to her office. She was deciding if she should go out for lunch or just order in.

 Chapter 57 - Mei-mei

    When she arrived back to her office floor, one of the secretaries came up to both Lena and Diane.


    "Miss. Shen, CEO Yang has been waiting inside your office for a while now. I told him that you were in an important meeting but he requested to wait for you."


    "Did he say why?" Lena asked.


    "I did not ask. However, I do know that he was the one that came and picked up the rings today, not Miss. Wu."


    "Mhm¡­ You guys can leave for lunch." Lena dismissed them and turned to Diane. "Order something light for me."


    "Yes, Miss. Shen."


    Lena opened the doors and strode into her office. She spotted Andy sitting down calmly looking at some of the magazines on the table.


    "You always told me not to visit you when you are working, but here you are, doing the same thing." Lena spoke and Andy turned to look her way.


    "As far as I remember, you never listened anyway, Lena."


    Lena did a small laugh. She gently placed the contract on her desk along with several other files and went to sit down by Andy on the sofa.


    "You came and picked up the rings today, was there something wrong with them?"


    "No. They are fine. I am here to ask you about something else."


    Lena looked at Andy with a "what" face.


    "You met with Hazel last night?" He got straight to the point.


    "I did. Why?"


    Lena knew where he was going with that question. While Hazel was gone during their breakup, Lena had done some taunting and bullying towards Eva. However, with the tag team duo Hazel and Lena, things can get more ugly. Hazel was, after all, on a different level than Lena.


    "Tell me honestly, what are you two planning this time?"


    "Andy, are you accusing me of doing something?"


    "You know what I am trying to say. Every time you both meet up, there was sure trouble to follow. And I know Hazel despises Eva as much as you."


    "I don''t despise her. She is just insignificant in my eyes. Also, Hazel and I were just catching up on our missed times together. She had been gone for a long time."


    "Hazel won''t even come to greet my mother, saying that she can''t be in the same mansion that I had lived in. You know how much our family dotes on her, and she dotes on you that much too."


    "She''ll get over it. Just bribe her with some latest edition clothes and handbags. She''ll be kissing your doormat the next hour."


    Andy sighed. "I really hope this time both of you stay out of your old habits. If you both harm her, I cannot guarantee that I will be on your side."


    "You really do love her, huh?"


    Lena could tell just by looking at him. He never was this soft and caring around her. The tone of his voice and the clarity in his eyes tells Lena that he had fallen hard for Eva. Lena just hoped that Eva loved him as much as he did. But even so, a successful relationship requires more than just love.


    "I do." Andy smiled. "I am sorry... that it couldn''t work out between us."


    "I am sorry too, for the bad things I did. But I am really over it."


    Andy had just wanted to make sure Lena and Hazel were not up to their no good habits and had no further plans to hurt Eva. He knew that Lena had changed since the breakup, and he knew that Lena was always truthful with him.


    He grabbed the bag that contained the rings and walked towards the door. He was about to open the door when his phone suddenly rang and he stopped to pick it up.


    "Eva?" Andy answered.


    "Where are you?"


    "I just picked up the rings. I''ll be meet you for lunch."


    "Ok. I''ll wait for you."


    He hung up. He turned back and casually walked towards Lena who was now standing up watching him. He came up to her and gave her a soft hug.


    "Lena, you''ll always be my mei-mei, just so you know that." He gently released her and patted her head.


    Lena chuckled. "You should get going."


    Andy left and Lena watched the door quietly close. She went back to sit on her desk and rested her head.


    ''I won''t hurt her, for now. But if Eva was really the one who put the other hit on me, I am willing to become enemies with you too, Andy. You have your own people to protect, and so do I.'' The eyes of Lena turned dark.


    Eva was the only person that Lena could think of being the person who put the other hit on her. However, no matter how much she pondered over the situation, her brain cannot seem to find the reason why Eva would ever do that.


    Eva was totally the opposite of Lena. She had the ideal personality of the main female lead. She was smart, nice, caring, and determined.


    But now that Lena contemplated the situation, Eva had been acting... out of character? The way Eva''s eyes are changing and her attitude towards Andy. Like how she never told Andy that the rings were getting made through SHYNE, especially Lena. And that one time, when she kept staring at Lena and Ming with coveting eyes.


    Whatsoever, Lena made the wrong conclusion before. This time she would need to play cautiously. Her enemy might not be what they seem to be.


    There was a slight knock on her door that snapped her out of her thought process.


    "Come in."


    Diane opened the door and entered with some boxes of food.


    "Your food just came in. Are you going to eat here or out in the eating area?"


    Lena had a separate eating area on her floor. Sometimes the food she ate was too aromatic and the smell can be too much in her office.


    "Put them in the fridge, I don''t feel like eating now. I''ll heat them up later when I want to eat." Lena said.

 Chapter 58 - Potential Husbands

    Lena continued working. With all the things going on in her life, she was also developing a program to help her easily design jewelry. She was not a master at programming and coding, but she knew enough from her original world as a Graphic Designer to develop the general concept.


    She''ll hire someone else to complete finalize and complete the program for her. Lena was going to ask Gary to do it since he was the best, but she did not want to be too dependent on him.


    Her cell phone rang and she looked to see that it was her mother. She stopped tying in codes in her laptop and answered it.


    "Hello, Mom."


    "Did I disturb you?"


    "No. I was just doing some light work. The partnership signing was successful today. I was going to tell you about it at dinner tonight."


    "That is good. I was thinking you were not going to come home tonight again."


    "Why?"


    "Are you see anyone new?"


    "Mom¡­ Having a good relationship with men does not mean you are dating them."


    "I know. I was just wondering. I just want you to be happy." Shen Milli sweetly spoke. "You can marry any man you want, you know that right? Our family is not strict on such marriage requirements like others. He just has to be handsome and loves you for who you are."


    "I know, Mom."


    "What about that friend of yours that you always hang out with? His name was.... Harry, I think"


    "It is Gary."


    "Yes, him. He seems nice and handsome."


    "We are just friends, no more than that." Lena monotonously replied.


    "Well, there is still the Young Master Zhao too! You both seemed like a great pair dancing at the Charity Auction. And even if not him, there are rumors between you and CEO Li. Are those true?"


    "MOM!"


    "Ok, I''ll stop. Oh, but just one more, Secretary Han is nice too. And he is family already, he''ll fit right in. Your father would for sure approve him."


    Lena sighed very loudly. Shen Milli was quietly smiling at the other side of the phone.


    "Mom, I am perfectly capable of finding my own husband. Don''t you dare start pulling blind dates like what the Yangs did with Hazel."


    "Of course not! I am confident in you." Shen Milli did think about it, but if it was unsuccessful with Hazel, for sure it wouldn''t work with Lena too. "I will talk to you more when you get home."


    Shen Milli hung up the phone before her daughter throws a fit at her. Lena was growing up too fast since the broken engagement from Andy. She did not Lena to dwell into work and forget about herself.


    Lena pulled her head back and deeply sighed. Anyone would enjoy the feeling of being loved. But Lena knew that love is not forced, and she really just want a man to pursue her for once. She needed to stress eat.


    She called Diane to reheat her food and bring it into her office, she would just eat then here so she can continue working.


    ----------------------


    Lena came to work early today but she decided to stay late tonight. Usually, she leaves on time because she believes that overworking is a bad habit. However, there were so many things going on and some overtime every so often was alright.


    Lena was looking at some financial paperwork. Their fiscal year was ending and the financial department will be sending in their annual reports.


    "It''s rare to see you working so hard." A voice called out to her.


    Lena glanced up to see a tall man at her door. His black hair was neatly combed. He stood at the door with suave in his suit.


    "Secretary Han!"


    "Sorry, I did not knock."


    "Why are you here?"


    "Your mother requested me to personally come to pick you up. She assumed that you might be staying late at work today. Guessed she was right."


    Lena glanced at the clock. It was quite late. "I was about to leave anyway."


    Lena quickly put her files neatly away in a drawer. She grabbed her bag and walked out with Secretary Han. Her bodyguards followed them out too.


    Lena got into the front seat with Secretary Han driving. Her guards were dismissed for the night because she was heading home.


    "Are you going to be staying for dinner tonight?" Lena asked Secretary Han as he was focused on driving.


    "I wasn''t going to. But since your father requested it as to celebrate your first big partnership, I could not deny the invitation."


    "Did you have plans for tonight?"


    "The vineyards are not well with the spread of the disease. I am heading out to the countryside tomorrow to see if we can quarantine the spread before it hit the other areas."


    Lena''s eyes perked up. "Disease?"


    Secretary Han gave Lena a quick glance. "Seemed like I said something that I should not have." He realized then that Shen Mao must have not told the news to Lena since she had just gone through her kidnapping.

 Chapter 59 - Celebratory Dinner

    Was this possibly the reason her father was busy during the time she was in the hospital? Lena felt a sharp pain in her heart. The father must have suffered a lot during that time. She was busy working her own problems that she missed the subtle cues from her parents.


    "How bad is it?" Lena curiously asked.


    "It was only one area when you were in the hospital. So far, we got information back that it had infected two more farms. It is not just our farms but if it spread more, the company will have a big loss."


    "They already had a small loss when I caused trouble. The company had just gotten back up and now this."


    Secretary Han can feel the worry and sadness from Lena''s voice. He continued to focus on driving through.


    "Don''t worry too much. I will be heading out tomorrow with the best biologists to figure out a solution. Every company will have some fallbacks. And only the strong ones can get back up from it and become more successful. The Shen family business has been thriving for so long, this is just a small setback compared to its history."


    "You''re right. The Shen Family is fortunate to have someone as competent as you with us. Your father would be very proud of you."


    "That''s too big of a compliment."


    "Says the person who will probably be the next CEO."


    Secretary Han scoffed. "Don''t you want to be the next CEO? The position is rightfully yours."


    "That is a death wish. I am barely keeping up with my work for something small like SHYNE, I would faint over with something as big as Shen Wine Industry."


    "Your husband can take over the business."


    This time it was Lena''s turn to scoff. "I believe that those who work hard deserve it. No matter how better my future husband may be at running a company, our Shen family business has always been about the heart and value. Money had always been second."


    Secretary Han just smiled and continued driving. It was only a while more when they reached the mansion. Lena and Secretary Han entered the mansion.


    Like usually, they could already smell the strong delicious aura of the food. Madam Li popped out of the kitchen to greet them.


    "You guys are finally home! Lena, take Henry and you both go sit down first, the food will be out soon." Shen Milli said.


    Secretary Han''s first name was Henry. Usually, in a casual setting, Shen Mao and Shen Milli just address him like family. Lena and Henry entered the dining room.


    They washed their hands in the bowl of water and sat down on the same side. Shen Mao was already chilling at the end of the table.


    "You have just gotten the partnership, do not start working too much." Shen Mao spoke.


    "I know." Lena replied.


    Aunt Mary and Shen Milli started setting the table full of food. Lena spotted roasted duck curry, chicken legs, several crab and shrimp dishes. Shen Milli was mostly a home mom. She came from a family of successful farmers and spent most of her time in the countryside.


    Her parents met in the countryside and fell in love. The spent a few years in the countryside, had Lena, and then moved back to the city. Over the years, Shen Milli had learned successfully how to manage Shen Jewelry, but she spent a good amount being a good mother. She balanced her family life well with her work.


    This was one reason why Lena does not overwork herself too. She wanted to be someone like her mother. The Shen mansion only has a few workers. Most of the cooking is done my Shen Milli and Aunt Mary. One can say that Lena''s skill from cooking came from her mother.


    Shen Milli had always wanted a big family, but Lena heard that she was very sick after giving birth to her. This weakened her body a lot and thus having more children was difficult. Lena had promised herself that when she has her own family, she will give her mom lots of grandchildren.


    "They look very delicious, Mom."


    "When am I going to see you cooking for me? You should come home more often to do that."


    Shen Milli sat down and after Shen Mao taking the first bite, everyone dug in. Henry was being helpful and dishing some stuff that was further away from Lena. Lena smiled as a thankful gesture.


    "Henry, don''t dish too much meat for her. She needs to eat her vegetables." Shen Milli spoke.


    Lena''s face turned a bit shy. She was a woman who loves to eat¡­ but prefer meat over vegetables. In the past, she only preserved through her green eating habits because Andy was a healthy eater.


    However, lately she had been hanging out by herself or with Gary, and they are both carnivores.


    "I can eat them myself." Lena replied to which both her parents laughed a bit.

 Chapter 60 - Dating Someone

    "I was thinking." Lena paused before continuing. "That I should get a place for myself."


    Shen Mao and Shen Milli''s smile dropped. "Why?" They both responded.


    "Don''t you think I am a bit too old to still be living with my parents?"


    "Ridiculous. You can stay here until you get married. And even after marriage, you can still stay here!" Shen Mao spoke.


    "How am I supposed to get married if he has to come to see me every time here?"


    "Andy visited you fine!"


    "That was because he had always done that before. Any other outsider would feel uncomfortable with mom and you always eavesdropping."


    "No future son-in-law of mine would feel uncomfortable." Shen Mao replied sternly, ignoring the eavesdropping comment. He and his wife were curious folks. They had not been much cautious of the men Lena hung out with when she was with Andy, but the situation has changed now.


    Shen Milli could tell that Shen Mao was being stubborn to let his daughter move out. "So you are really seeing someone?" Shen Milli interrupted the conversation.


    "Mom! I already told you I am not."


    "Mhm¡­ Just make sure you use protection."


    "AHHH!!" Lena covered her face with her hands. ''When did this conversation turned to this! Henry is right there too! This is so embarrassing.''


    "Whyyy? Henry is family too. No need to be shy."


    Lena got up from her seat to leave.


    "Are you done eating already?" Shen Milli felt sad that she was teasing her daughter too much.


    "I am not hungry." Lena left the table. She was too embarrassed from the conversation to keep eating.


    "You--" Shen Milli stopped her husband from saying anything as Lena left.


    "Let her go." She spoke. "You should have let her get her own place in the first place."


    "Me? You are the one that made her leave¡­" Both of them sweetly argued, not observing that Henry also silently left the table.


    Henry head up to Lena''s room to make sure she was alright. He knocked on the door twice before Lena opened it.


    "It''s you again." Lena responded.


    "Are you not going to invite me in?"


    Lena rolled her eyes. Henry forced his way in anyways. "What is it?" Lena asked.


    "You know your parents are just really worried about you. Any parents would want their kids to get married and settle down."


    Lena sat on her bed. "I know."


    "Your father had been hinting a lot of it to me too." Henry solemnly spoke.


    "About me?"


    Henry nodded his head. He grabbed the chair from her desk and sat in front of Lena.


    "But, you always only thought of me as your sister." Lena spoke, to which Henry looked up to her face and smiled sweetly. He had always thought of Lena as his sweet spoiled little sister.


    "And besides, you are dating someone already." Lena continued.


    Henry coughed and blushed slightly. "Is it that obvious?" He was surprised that Lena knew. He had kept it on the down low for a few months now.


    "Hmmm." Lena studied Henry. "You style your hair more often and you changed your cologne. Your cuff links are also too fancy for you to buy them yourself."


    Henry was proud that Lena had such an observant skill. "We had only been dating for a few months."


    "Am I going to meet her soon?"


    "When the occasion presents itself." Henry smiled. "We both want our privacy yet before going public about it."


    "Is she someone I would know?"


    Henry pondered a bit about the question. "Know of, yes. But someone you would have interacted with, no."


    "I will just wait then. Make sure to use protection." Lena sarcastically imitated her mother''s voice.


    Henry chuckled. "You silly little girl."


    Henry patted her head. He got up, put the chair back where he got it from and started to leave.


    "Don''t rebel too much, Lena." He called back to her.


    "I won''t." Lena replied.


    Henry shut the door and left to go home. He had still to prepare for his trip tomorrow morning.


    Lena fell back to her bed. She grabbed her phone to check her messages. There were a few from Gary but she finally got her response from James.


    James had agreed to come back to be her personal bodyguard. Lena replied back to him that she will meet him tomorrow at the office with their new work contract. Lena had a long day and she much needed a shower.


    When she got out of the shower, she saw a plate of snacks on her desk. It must have been her mother, knowing that she would go hungry late at night since she only ate very small at dinner.


    Lena dried her hair and sat on her desk. She had a few more hours before sleeping. She needed all the time she can to be productive.

 Chapter 61 - One Problem at a Time

    Lena had a great sleep. Last night she had completed the contract between James and her and the program. She felt like it was a good day today. She had not been prettying herself much since the kidnapping and she felt like she can officially get back on track.


    She picked out a simple blouse and wore a black slim high waisted skirt. She slipped on a pair of small pointed heels. Lena had her hair down with some soft waves. She didn''t forget to wear her safety bracelet and matched that with some gold earrings.


    Lena saw the box that had the pearl necklace sitting in her jewelry drawer. She will need to go out sometimes to buy some matching earrings with that.


    Lena walked down the stairs to eat breakfast and she can hear her mother''s small laughter. As expected, her mom was talking with Aunt Mary while she enjoyed her breakfast.


    "Are you not going to work today?" Lena asked her mother.


    "No. I have a gathering with some of the madams later."


    Lena sat down by her mother while Aunt Mary served her breakfast. "Thank you."


    "You can go and purchase your own place. Your father was just being stubborn."


    "I know he was."


    "Just make sure you come home often to visit often."


    "I am not going to go abroad or get married. I''m just trying to be more independent like you."


    "You are my daughter after all. Hurry up, your car is already outside waiting for you."


    Lena kissed her mother goodbye and left. She had a planned meeting with all her bodyguards.


    When she arrived at her office, James was already there waiting for him. Instead of going straight to her office, she brought all three men to the meeting room. They felt like it was an intense situation. Noah and Kye knew that one of them might be dismissed if James joined the team.


    Lena sat at the head of the table while the three men spread themselves among the long table. They were large men that needed their space. Lena placed a few files on the table and started flipping through them.


    "Noah, you have two kids?"


    "I do, Miss. Shen." Noah replied.


    "Kye, you yourself come from quite a strong family background. Why be a bodyguard?"


    "What your family background does not define you. My passion is to protect." Kye responded.


    "You two are so tense. I am not dismissing anyone from their job." Lena clarified.


    Both of them relaxed a bit internally but their expression was still stern and alerted.


    "Noah will pick me up early in the morning and leave by the afternoon. Kye and James will be my afternoon to evening bodyguard. I do not like overworking my people nor steal their time away from their families."


    "You both were with me 16 hours a day, every day. You should have a normal work schedule like anyone else. You are risking your life to protect me every day instead of being able to protect your family. I know each of you signed up for this when you choose this career, but it doesn''t mean that you need to be deprived of your own life." Lena explained.


    "We are thankful to be working for the Shen family." Both of them replied.


    "I will be going on vacation in the next coming days. Only James will accompany me by then." Lena handed Noah and Kye some papers. "During that time, I want both of you to do security for my new home."


    Lena had already purchased a floor from the most luxurious apartment building of City A, Crescent View Apartments. Lena was able to do a bit of bribing for one of the wealthier couples living there for them to sell their place.


    Lena was keen on getting this place due to its high security and just because she can. Why go for something lower when you can aim for the best.


    Although the apartment had its own state of the art security, it doesn''t hurt to have your own security too. The files Lena handed to Noah and Kye had some blueprints on some security installations.


    "I already have a team set up the area already. I just need your own expertise to make sure there are no weak spots. All cameras and emergencies are linked to your phones and tablets.


    All of my GPS locators are also linked in. You will also have direct access to my daily schedule and location regardless of you being active or not."


    "We will make sure the area is secured when you get back." Noah replied.


    "Where will miss be going?" Kye asked.


    "Up north to City Z. The cold will be coming and I want to visit my grandparents." Lena answered. She had made last minute plans to go help Henry with the problem. She had many things going on, but family comes first and she will tackle them one problem at a time.

 Chapter 62 - Lunch with Father

    The meeting was adjourned but James followed Lena to her office. They still had yet to sign their contract.


    Lena handed him the contract so he can look over it. The terms and conditions were reasonable. However, what struck James was that the pay was a bit higher than what Shen Mao paid him before. With a quick glance, Lena could tell that was what James was hesitant on.


    "Are you questioning the pay rate?"


    "I am sorry, but I don''t think I deserve this much."


    "You are worth that much, even more, if I could offer you the proper amount. It''s because you will be with me more when I am handling more personal things. I cannot promise that protecting me from now on will be less risky than before. I am going to be responsible for your life as much as you are going to be with mine."


    "Has Miss. Shen found the person who wanted to harm you?"


    "Not exactly. That''s why I need you even more."


    James understood what Lena meant. He nodded, signed the contract and left. Lena told him that he can have the next two days off before they go to City Z. Lena had yet to tell her father about this.


    Lena worked diligently to finish some paperwork so she could take the "break." She sent her program to a new team of developers to finish it. Reaching out to support young adults in their early careers was the best way to pave their loyalty. It was similar to how Lena and Gary were when they were in college.


    It was a risky move to invest in young and new developers, however, they are the most motivated during that time. They also are in need of money too so she didn''t have to pay them too much. Lena killed two birds with one stone.


    If all goes well, with this, she will be able to design faster and more proficient. This means that the partnership with LUX will also go more smoothly.


    It was 11 a.m. when Lena put down her work and stepped out of her office. She had planned to leave early to have lunch with her father.


    She first stopped by at one of her father''s favorite restaurants. She had already ordered some before and only needed to pick them up.


    When she arrived at her father''s company, she quickly accessed the CEO elevator and floored up to the highest floor. The door opened and Secretary Sandra greeted Lena.


    Sandra works under Henry, and whenever he is away for other business instructed by my father, Sandra took over Henry''s work.


    "Had my father eat yet?" Lena asked.


    "No." Sandra replied.


    "Anything scheduled for after lunch?"


    "His earliest meeting is in three hours."


    "Ok. Make sure no one bothers us."


    Sandra nodded and opened the door for Lena. Lena walked in and noticed that his dad was on the phone. She smiled at her father who looked up to see her come in.


    "I understand. I will call you back you later." Shen Mao hung up the call and smiled back at his daughter. "I must be dreaming to see my daughter here, bringing me lunch."


    "You''re funny. Mother is out today and Henry is gone too, I was sure that you would skip your meals without them."


    "You caught me."


    Lena head to a smaller room connected to the main office. She placed down the food and uncover them from their containers.


    "I see that you only ordered the best!"


    "I would always cook and bring your lunch instead. But, working life has no free time like in the past."


    Shen Mao chuckled. "You did, huh."


    Shen Mao sat down and they both enjoyed a light lunch together. Lena told her father about the program she was working on and how that will improve the development with the LUX partnership.


    Shen Mao was astonished to learn that Lena had such skills. His daughter had continued to surprise him a lot lately.


    "There is something that I want to ask you for permission." Lena asked.


    "I knew you were up to something. You would never bring me free food without asking something in return. Is it about you moving out?"


    "No, it is not that. It is about the disease on the vineyards."


    Shen Mao put down his chopsticks. "Did Henry tell you about that?"


    "No. I found out about it myself. DId you think I wouldn''t find out?"


    "I didn''t want to bother you with it. You had enough going on your end of things."


    "Dad." Lena reached out her hands and placed them on top of her father''s. "You can''t keep hiding everything troubling matter away from me. I will find them sooner or later. I am a big girl now, I can take it."


    Shen Mao cleared his throat. "I just fear that you would hate your father."


    "I would never hate you. I am not that cheeky teenager anymore."


    "What do you want to do about the disease?" Shen Mao asked. He picked up his chopsticks again and started eating.


    "I don''t know yet. But I want to go with Henry to go and evaluate the problem. I had not also visited grandma for a long time."


    "Alright. I will call your grandfather later to tell that you will be visiting soon."


    "Thank you, father. I will continue to work hard."

 Chapter 63 - Grandpa and Grandma Shen

    Shen Mao had insisted that Lena take their private jet but she rejected the offer. Lena said that it was a fun experience if she had taken the jet. Additionally, it was just a few hours until they arrived at City Z.


    Her grandparents sent someone from the farm to come and pick her up.


    On the car ride, Lena was reading on more information on plants and diseases so she would at least know somewhat about the situation. When they reached the countryside, she took the time to enjoy the peaceful scenery.


    "Is this your first time in City Z?" Lena asked James who was sitting in front with the driver.


    "No. This would be my fourth time here."


    "Really? Me too." Lena smiled. "I despise coming here. I considered it punishment every time my parents sent me here."


    "Old Madam Shen was really shocked that Miss. Shen was coming to visit this time." The driver spoke.


    "One time, I went outside and tossed all my clothes in the river. I thought that if I did that, grandma would buy me new clothes. But instead, grandma said that if I have no clothes then I would be wearing her clothes instead because there were no shopping malls." Lena laughed. "It was the first time I jumped into a river and washed my own clothes."


    "I could see that as something Miss. Shen would do." James finally smiled.


    When they entered the large land of farms owned by the Shen family, Lena was excited to meet her grandparents on good terms this time.


    We got near the main house, Lena already spotted her grandparents waiting outside to greet her. The car stopped and without waiting for someone to open the door, Lena popped out. She quickly ran to give her grandmother a hug!


    "Grandma!"


    "My baby! My sweet baby!" Grandma Shen hugged her back.


    Lena had to bend low just to hug her grandma. She then released her arms from her grandma and hugged her grandpa. "Grandpa!"


    Grandpa Shen grunted. "You spoiled brat, you are finally calling me grandpa instead of old man."


    Lena pouted her lips like a small child and shook her head. "No, daddy is a an old man. Grandpa is still very young and handsome!"


    Grandpa Shen puffed up his chest. "That''s right. He is the old man." He was happy to see his granddaughter so energetic.


    Lena release the hug from her grandpa. She scooted aside a bit so James was visible. "This is my bodyguard, James."


    James bowed down and greeted the elders. "Nice to meet you, Elder Shen and Old Madam Shen."


    "Let me show you to your room. I redecorated since the last time you were here." Grandma Shen spoke to Lena.


    Lena followed her into the traditional house. The front had a beautiful garden with a small pond. Lena''s room was located in the west wing. She preferred the view of the river.


    When they entered the room, the worker who carried her bags gently placed it down and left with the command of Grandma Shen. The room had more plants and pink silk curtains with flowers embroidered to them.


    "Did you make the curtains, grandma?" Lena asked.


    "I did. But I want to show you this." Grandma Shen walked to the dresser and grabbed out a beautiful qipao. She swung it up and placed it over Lena. "I knew it would look good on you."


    The qipao was a rose pink qipao with silver and white flowers embroidered to it. Lena held the dress to herself and walked towards the mirror to look at it.


    "It''s beautiful, grandma!"


    "Of course. You would have such skills too if you were not so stubborn to learn them in the past."


    "I think I will stick to embroidering handkerchief." Lena replied.


    "Wear that tomorrow. I want you to go up to the mountain shrine with me."


    Lena nodded. Grandma Shen left Lena to unpack and decorate her room. She will be called when lunch was ready. James was stationed in a room near her.


    Lena opened her window and took a long look at the scenery. She took a deep breath of fresh air. Somehow, she felt that she needed to be here.


    -------------------


    The sun had just started to rise when Lena and Grandma Shen headed towards the mountain shrine. James had to stay at the bottom of the shrine to wait for both of them to do their morning prayers.


    Lena was wearing the rose pink qipao. Her hair was tied into a bun with a simple hairpin. This entire outfit made her look very young. Lena was surprised that her grandmother had the energy to climb up the stairs of this mountain. The spent a long time in the shrine.


    Grandma Shen wanted to stay longer praying, but Lena head out first to look around the shrine. There were a few other people in the shrine too. Because it was still early and the shrine was high up in the mountain, there was a slight hazy fog that started to fade away.


    Lena found a chair by a big tree and sat down to rest. But before resting long, she heard a voice called out to her.


    "Little girl."

 Chapter 64 - Two souls in one body

    Lena turned around and spotted an old grandma behind the fenced area. She was on the other side of the garden. The fence was large walls but each section had a large circle cut with three bars.


    "Are you asking for me?" Lena stood up and walked to the fence. She grabbed onto one of the bars with her hand.


    "You are a blessed child." The granny spoke softly.


    Lena paused and just stared at the granny. She didn''t say anything but just weakly smiled. ''What is this granny talking about?''


    The granny suddenly grabbed her hand and stuck her face out of the space between the bars. "YOU¡­ are a blessed child!" She screamed to Lena.


    Lena quickly moved back her hand from granny''s hold. Lena was creeped out a bit. She smiled again and swiftly turned back to walk away.


    ''Yup, this granny is crazy¡­ just walk away.'' Lena thought to herself.


    "You have two souls in one body." The granny quickly yelled.


    Lena stopped her footsteps and turned back to face the granny. "What did you say?" Lena replied. The part about two souls in one body had gotten her attention.


    The granny beckoned Lena to come back which she did but Lena made sure not to be too close this time to the fence.


    "I can see it. You have one strong blessed soul emitting from your body. But in your heart, a dark soul resides there. Two souls in a body."


    "What does that mean?" Lena was curious. Ever since she arrived here, nothing had helped her obtain clues about her "unique" situation.


    She knew that some part of herself currently still had a presence of the old Lena. There had been some times she acted out of control.


    "The dark soul controls the fate of the body." The granny replied.


    Lena was still not understanding what the granny was saying. She moved a bit close to the granny because the granny was talking soft again.


    "A dark soul has a cursed fate... Those who are meant to hate you will forever hate you. And those who are meant to love you will forever love you. They can''t break the cycle. And you cannot break the cycle either or bad things will follow you."


    "What bad things?" Lena asked. ''Was this granny referring to her kidnapping and what is now currently troubling the Shen family? Was it because of me?''


    "If you defy your fate, you will suffer the consequences."


    "How do I break the curse?"


    "Die and be reborn. Only then will your true soul be fully merged with the body."


    "Die? Wait, are you saying that because I don''t want to be like the original Lena that I will suffer?"


    Lena thought that it was stupid. She wanted to be nicer but she will be punished for doing that?! What kind of b*llsh*t voodoo is this? The granny turned around to leave.


    "Wait granny!" This time it was Lena who put her face through the space between the bars and yelled.


    "What do you mean by die and be reborn? Didn''t I die already?" Lena yelled back but the granny continued to walk away and not reply. The granny hummed and nodded her head side to side as she strode away.


    Lena quickly ran around the fence to catch up to the granny. It took some time to get to the entrance that connected both gardens. When she arrived at the location the granny was standing before, the granny was nowhere in sight. Lena ran a few times around the area to look for her.


    Lena was panting really hard and trying to recall everything that the granny told her. She placed her hand on the wall for some support.


    "Lena? Are you okay?"


    Lena turned around and it was her grandmother looking worryingly at her.


    "I was looking for you for some time now." Grandma Shen walked over to Lena.


    "I am fine." Lena quickly smiled. "I was just relaxing in the garden."


    "You are sweating."


    Lena touched her forehead. "I splashed my face with water a while ago. I made sure not to get myself to wet."


    "Let''s go home, then."


    "Ok." Lena replied. She put her arm around her grandma to help her grandma and they both walked back to the main entrance of the shrine.


    Lena looked back one more time before leaving the entrance. She stopped to look at a stone engraving on a statue by the entrance.


    "Red thread of fate." Lena read it out loud.


    "That''s right. This is a shrine for the diety Siming. People come here to pray for a good fate for newborn babies, marriages, and the afterlife. Legends say this is where the diety last resides before returning to its realm." Grandma Shen spoke.


    "I thought this was a normal shrine. What did you come here to pray for?" Lena looked down at her grandmother.


    Grandma Shen cleared her throat. "Nothing in particular." She evaded the question.

 Chapter 65 - Erhu

    When they arrived back at the house, they all had brunch together. Lena quickly ate and excused herself to her room. She said she needed to review some research before Henry comes and pick her up tomorrow.


    Henry was at a different area of the farm, evaluating the situation. He let Lena stay with her grandparents a day before picking her up.


    Lena entered her room, changed to something more comfortable and went to her desk. She pulled out a sheet of paper and wrote down everything that the granny told her. After writing the last few words that she could recall, Lena put down her pen and stared at the paper.


    Lena continued to read the paper a few times until it was embedded in her head.


    "If you defy your fate, you will suffer the consequences." Lena silently read it out loud.


    She put her hands between the pressure points on her sides of her head and massaged them. She recounted what bad things had happened to her since she arrived. First, it was the Li Group banning the Shen Industry. Then it was the kidnapping and now it was the diseases with the vineyard. These had all happened consecutively after each other.


    "Die and be reborn, only then will your true soul be fully merged with the body." Lena read the next part. ''Die and reborn.'' Lena pounded her head on the desk slightly.


    ''Is this like a movie where I have to kill myself by injection, then have someone resuscitate me back to life? Is this meant by that die and reborn phrase?'' Lena pondered. She did not want that to happen.


    ''That''s it! Like a movie. I have to think differently.''


    Lena cleared her desk and pulled out another sheet of paper.


    ''Andy is the male lead and Eva is the female lead. I am the female villain. The second lead is..'' Lena paused and thought a bit about it. Then she wrote down a name. ''Ming Zhao.''


    ''What is the fate of a typical villainess? I have to bully the female lead. Make sure they don''t get engaged or married. Sleep with Andy and get a pregnant or fake a pregnancy? Definitely not going to do that.''


    Lena paused and relaxed a bit. ''Most villains have a bad ending though. They either die, go to jail, something bad happens to them, go insane, marries an ugly or mean guy...''


    She shook her head to not think about that. Lena wrote down another name and circled it a few times. ''Gary.''


    "Those who are meant to hate you, will forever hate you. And those who are meant to love you, will forever love you. They can''t break the cycle." Lena recited it from the top of her head.


    ''Is this why even when Lena had changed so much from the original Lena, Gary still liked her?''


    Lena stopped and placed her head on down on the desk again. She sighed loudly and closed her eyes.


    What was she thinking? Was she going to believe what a random granny said? Lena knew internally that she WAS believing everything that the granny said.


    Lena had spent her time looking for anything that could possibly explain her situation and whatever this granny told her makes the most sense. Didn''t she at one time, was fully ready to die? Why does she feel indifferent now? Is it because now she knows she needed to die now? But what if she died? And what does reborn mean? Is it going back to her real world?


    A soft knock at the door alerted Lena. She folded her two pieces of paper and stuffed them into her bag.


    "Who is it?"


    "It is me, James."


    Lena patted her cheeks and smiled a few times in the mirror before going to open the door.


    "Hello." Lena replied.


    "Old Madam Shen requested that you join her for some tea and music."


    "Give me a few minutes. I will be right out." Lena closed the door. ''One problem at a time, Lena¡­'' She told herself.


    She grabbed a small box that she had prepared for her grandma. She forgot to give them to her yesterday when she arrived.


    Lena opened the door and followed James to pavilion on the river. Grandma Shen was peacefully enjoying some tea waiting for Lena.


    "Come here and play some music for me."


    Lena sat down and held the Erhu. When Lena was young, she did not enjoy embroidery lessons from her grandma but she liked music. She was not as skillful in traditional instruments as modern instruments, but still enjoyed them regardless.


    "It has been a long time since I played, I hope grandma won''t be sad." Lena smiled and started playing a soft soothing melody. James who stood nearby also enjoyed the music. It was a change of scenery for him.


    Lena played two songs then stopped. She placed the instrument down safely and drank the tea her grandma brewed. There was a long silence and both of them just listened to the water of the river flowing and the sounds of critters.


    "Grandma, how much do you know about fates?" Lena asked.


    "Fates?"


    "If there is someone I love very much, but we are not fated together, we will not be happy?"


    Grandma Shen assumed that Lena was referring to her and Andy. "You will only unhappy for a bit. Your true fated person will come."


    "Is it possible not to be fated with anyone?"


    "Everyone is fated to be with someone if they choose to."


    "What if you are fated to be with two people?"


    "Child. You do not need to worry. Let nature do its job. Just trust yourself and you will be fine." Grandma Shen assured Lena.

 Chapter 66 - An unforeseen answer, but a correct one

    Lena grabbed out the present and handed to her grandmother.


    "I got you a present but forgot to give it to you yesterday."


    "What is it?" Grandma Shen reached for the box.


    "Open it."


    Grandma Shen gently opened the box. Neatly placed in the long red box was a traditional tassel. It was simple but delicate. "Did you make this?" She asked.


    "I did."


    The tassel was red and the top was like a flower with a diamond-shaped center. The center had a beautiful golden thread, creating a more detailed flower.


    "It is pretty. I''ll be sure to wear it during the New Years."


    --------------


    The next morning, Henry came and pick up Lena and James early. They had a four-hour drive before they reach the other farm location. Henry had one of the experienced workers drive because he knew the roads of the hills and countryside.


    James sat in front with the driver and Lena and Henry were at the back.


    "Are we going to the farm?" Lena asked.


    "We will be going to the lab. We had collected samples from all three contaminated sites and had been working on identifying the cause of the disease to take preventative measures."


    Lena turned and looked out the window. Henry felt that Lena had been silent and uncheerful like her usual self since she left the main house.


    "I am sure we will find a solution soon." He assured her.


    When they reach the lab, they had to wear proper lab gears. The lab was where they experiment with winemaking, taste, and testing with plant breeding.


    Henry led Lena and James to the main testing room. When they arrived, Lena saw a hardworking team of scientists working together to solve the situation.


    "How are the results so far?" Henry asked.


    "Not so good." The head biologist Sam replied.


    "What do you mean?"


    Sam pressed a button to show the results onto a screen. "We tried several ways to stop the disease from spreading." He clicked the control for it to go to the next results. "We also tried killing it too."


    "What do you know so far about this disease?" Lena asked.


    "The disease starts from the roots. We at first thought that they are spreading by water but that theory was scratch off because the irrigation of the three farms doesn''t use the same system. We had also tested for natural and groundwater and found no result of the disease."


    Lena inserted herself forward and look at all the testing they had done for far in the last few days. She was surprised that they were able to get this much data in a short time.


    "What about the soil?" She asked.


    "We did similar testing with the soil. Negative too." Sam responded.


    Lena pondered a bit about the situation and what she researched on. The disease can spread by water, air, carriers or hosts.


    "Is it possible that the point of infection is not the root?" Lena asked.


    "What do you mean?" A different scientist spoke.


    "I am not an expert. I am only looking at this situation from attack and infiltration type of strategy, so I am not sure what I am saying is even plausible. But, what if the infection''s first contact is the top of the plant. And as it travels down, it only becomes lethal due to something from the roots or soil?"


    "That''s impossible¡­" The scientist spoke but then paused and thought more about it. "Or maybe it is."


    The 5 scientists looked at each other. They looked back at the data to see if it was a plausible situation.


    "There is a bacteria in the roots that help the growth of the grape vines. It is possible that another bacteria is infecting the microbiome of the roots. We will have to look into this more." Sam spoke.


    "We are thankful to have Miss. Shen here with us today!" Several other scientists complimented Lena.


    "No, my family and I are thankful for each of you for your hard work and positive performances."


    Lena and Henry continued to stay and observe their continued change of research. Everyone took a short food breaks but diligently came back to work. By their happy cheer and snarky comments, Lena could tell that they were getting more positive results.


    Lena sat down to relax her legs since she had been standing for most of the day.


    "You have been yawning for a while now, we should leave soon." Henry told Lena.


    "The lab has bedrooms, don''t they? We can just stay here." Lena replied.


    Henry was pulled back a bit from her response. Did she know that the beds here are not as comfortable? Lena yawned again and blinked her eyes a few times.


    "I know what you are thinking." Lena stared at Henry sleepily. "I won''t break my back from one night. I am sleepy to wait for us to go to the house."


    The house Lena was talking about was a Bed and Breakfast Mansion in the town near the farm here. Their family did not have their own house far out here and spend most of their time at the Bed and Breakfast Stay instead.


    This option provides business to the local town and a sense of community that the Shen Family cherished.


    "Alright then." Henry accepted her choice. He just hoped she doesn''t regret it the next morning.


    He led Lena to her private bed quarters in the area while James went back to the car to get her stuff.


    "The bathroom is down the hallway." Henry told her. The bathroom was not connected to the bedroom like a master bedroom.


    Lena''s room had a larger bed than the others she saw as they passed down the hallway. The mattress or comforter was about 10-13cm. At this point though, Lena was so tired, she plopped herself onto the bed and dozed off. She didn''t even bother for a shower.

 Chapter 67 - Leave the rest to the professionals

    When Lena woke up the next day, she suddenly regretted sleeping here. Her back ache and all her bones were semi sore. She spent a good ten minutes stretching her body before walking out to go take a shower.


    James was already wide awake before Lena woke up. He was waiting by the door of her room.


    "Morning James."


    "Good morning, Miss. Shen. Secretary Han is still in bed."


    "How late did he stay up?"


    "He went back to the testing room and didn''t fall asleep until a few hours ago even after all the scientists went to bed."


    "Ok. Let''s go find something to eat." Lena told James.


    They both head down to the cafeteria where the morning workers were already up and going about their duties. A kitchen lady came out of the kitchen and asked what Lena would like to have for breakfast.


    Lena knew that this was not a fancy 5-star restaurant, she just asked for a simple omelet for her and James. After their small breakfast, Lena and James head back to the testing room. Henry was still not awake.


    Some scientists were already there working and they only spare a small moment to greet Lena. Lena head to grab a tablet and look at their progress from yesterday there instead. She did not want to bother them.


    The lab documents all their progress so it was easy for Lena to follow their steps.


    "I didn''t expect to see you here so early." Henry walked into the testing room.


    Lena turned back and smiled at him. "Where else would I be?"


    He grabbed the table off Lena and looked at the report. "Things seemed to be alright now." Henry relaxed.


    "They are sending the results in to produce a spray that will help coat the plant and protect it. For now anyways until they produce a bacteriophage that can kill off the infection." Henry explained.


    "That''s good." Lena replied.


    "You can go back home tomorrow. You had done great work here already, leave the rest to the professionals."


    "Are you pushing me away?"


    "I wouldn''t want you to miss Andy''s engagement."


    What Henry said was correct. Andy''s engagement was coming up soon. Lena had still to prepare something to wear and gift them. Somehow, Lena felt uneasy about going back home.


    ---------


    As per Henry''s request, Lena left and went back to City A the next day. Henry was staying back for a few more days to make sure production was going smoothly. He will be back in time for the engagement though.


    After spending a few short days in fresh air and serene, coming back to the city was unfulfilling. Lena did not know what future dangers awaited her, but she had decided to continue being herself.


    Whatever problem was thrown at her, she will strive to hit it head-on. The past several misfortunes, she had done it that way and she can continue it like that.


    Shen Milli already had a dress prepared for Lena. She knew that Lena would be busy and may not have had time to go properly to find a dress appropriate for the occasion.


    Lena asked Gary to be her partner, but he said that he could not make it that day. Plus, events like that was not something he enjoyed. Instead, Lena called in for a favor.


    "Your second favor?"


    "Yes. I want you to my partner at the engagement unless you already made plans with someone else." Lena replied.


    "That''s fine. I''ll come to pick you up then." Ming Zhao said.


    Ming Zhao had not spoken to Lena since visiting her at the hospital. He heard that she went to City Z recently to deal with some problems with the Shen Company.


    His mother had prepared her own list of young women that she had lined for her son to go with, but after he said that he was taking Lena Shen, Madam Zhao was okay with it.


    When Lena and Andy got engaged, they went with a traditional theme because both sides had grandparents. The engagement was also handled by their mothers. However, with Eva, who had no family, Andy decided that a simple modern engagement was better.


    The Madams of the higher circle knew that both Andy''s parents were against this whole ordeal but they could not go against Andy once he made his decision. Elder Yang almost had a heart attack disputing with Andy, but even with that, Andy was still stubborn to continue with the engagement.


    So in the end, the elder Yangs did not choose to attend the engagement, and Andy''s parents distastefully did anyways because they still loved their son. They just smiled and went along with him.

 Chapter 68 - Whose engagement is this?

    On the day of the engagement, Lena wore a bright red qipao with a modern twist. The bottom of the qipao flared out and stopped at knee length. The top was covered by red lace designs, creating a soft collar to the neckline.


    Aunt Mary did her hair by putting it in a nice traditional bun and had several hair clips to decorate it. Lena wore a pretty red heel with a buckle and flower on her feet.


    Lena wore one of the lucky charms that Grandma Shen gave her. She hid more in the inner of the dress though. She decided to finally wear the expensive pearl necklace that Kris had gifted her. She paired with a pearl earring that she was also able to find that matched the set.


    She had light make-up one with a rosy lip. Lena looked at herself in the reflection was satisfied with her looks.


    "Young Master Zhao is already waiting for you." Aunt Mary came and get Lena. Her parents had already gone to the engagement.


    Lena gently walked down and Ming Zhao could hear the clutter of her heels. She had a wide cute smile when she walked in front of him.


    "Do I look pretty?"


    "I didn''t know it was your engagement that we were attending." Ming Zhao complimented her. He meant to say that she was dressed as beautiful as it was her own engagement.


    He escorted her to his black shiny car and they head off to the engagement. As Ming Zhao drove, Lena kept glancing at him. She was going to go ahead and go to the engagement with Henry, but she took the opportunity to ask Ming Zhao instead.


    She needed him with her to confront him what he knows about Eva and the situation with her kidnapping.


    "If you keep giving me that look, I swear I would think that you like me." Ming Zhao spoke but continued to focus on his driving. He was driving quite fast because he did not want to be late for another event again.


    "Why? Can I not like you?" Lena answered bluntly.


    Ming Zhao gave her a quick surprised look before his attention went back to the road. Ming Zhao did not reply back and Lena did a small giggle.


    It was just a short ride before they arrived at the event. The event was hosted at one of the largest hotels in City A, it was owned by the Li Group.


    When they arrived at the location, the paparazzi was cluttered together and pushing each other to get the latest news.


    "Look, that is Ming Zhao''s car!"


    Ming Zhao stepped out of his car, flared up his blond hair a bit, buttoned his suit and walked to the passenger side to open the door.


    "There is someone with him?!"


    "Hey, who do you think it is?!"


    The reporters continued to push each other, ready to snap the perfect photo of Ming Zhao''s date. Ming Zhao opened the door and held his arm out for Lena. One foot at a time, Lena stepped out of the car elegantly and smiled.


    "My god?! Isn''t that Lena Shen?"


    There was lots of light flickering as everyone took a wonderful picture of Ming Zhao and Lena.


    "I didn''t think she would come to her ex-fiance''s engagement? You think she has moved on to be with Ming Zhao now?"


    "Of course! They were dancing at the Annual Charity Auction too, remember?"


    "She is really a gem! Only the top men of China can match her!"


    Ming and Lena walked passed the crowd but did offer some "fan service" by stopping, posing and smiling at the camera. When they finally entered the building, both of them stopped smiling and open the distance from them.


    "I didn''t know Miss. Shen knows how to act too." Ming complimented her.


    "What do you mean? If I had entered the acting industry, I would be number one." Lena winked at him.


    They both were guided by a worker to the main event area. Ming offered his arm again to Lena and she held it with her small hands. They stood in front of a big gold door.


    "You ready?" Ming Zhao asked.


    "Never been better."


    The worker opened the door for them and they both walked into the large room. The loud chattering died down a bit and most of the crowd look at them. Ming''s blond hair made him look as blinding and matching standing next Lena''s bright red qipao.


    Both of them ignored the silence and walked toward their parents who gestured for them to come. A moment afterward, the loud chattering was back and Lena had her ears perked up, ready for the comments to come by.


    She always had an excitement for gossips, especially those about her.


    "Did you see that? Lena is dressed so pretty. Why didn''t I think of wearing some like that instead?" A young woman looked down to her white modern party dress. Almost all young woman hear were dressed like that. Only a few elders and Madams dressed more traditional.


    "Ignore her dress, she, herself overall is even more pretty than Eva, don''t you think?" Another one spoke.


    "Hm?" The groups of girls looked at Lena then glance at Eva who was standing by Andy.


    "That''s right. It''s like she and Ming Zhao are the ones getting engaged!"


    "I agree! Whose engagement is this?" They all laughed.

 Chapter 69 - Follow the money

    Eva heard the comments too but she kept her smiling face and greeted the guests with Andy. She didn''t think that Lena would show up, nevertheless, with Ming Zhao too.


    Andy had one of the best designers to design her dress but she chose something simple and conservative. She did not feel like being too much at the engagement. However, she was beginning to regret not going all out.


    Andy and Eva walked to the Zhao and Shen family to greet them.


    "I am very thankful that you can make it today." Andy spoke and Eva just nodded.


    The men chatted with Andy and threw compliments to his fiance.


    "If you keep staring at her, people are going to keep noticing." Lena smiled and spoke quietly to Ming.


    Ming cleared his throat softly. "I don''t know what you mean."


    "Please. I can detect that eye from a mile away. It''s the look that I wish someone would stare at me with."


    Ming glanced down to Lena who just sips her drink and kept on her smile. He glanced back up to the stage to the clinking of glass. It was time to start the boring part of an event, the talking.


    Master Zhao spoke first to congratulate his son. Then after more talking, they did their ring exchange. Andy spoke and Eva spoke. Afterward, the first dance was given to the couple. After that, everyone was welcome to the dance floor.


    Lena could tell that being in the audience of such a ceremony was boring. Back then, she was the proudest and happy young woman to had been engaged with Andy.


    "So, do you still love her." Lena asked.


    "I had never loved her. What feelings we had was over since the moment she chose him over me." Ming replied.


    "Really?" Lena glanced towards Eva who seemed very happy with Andy. "I think she still has some feelings for you."


    Lena spoke that line then gently tugged Ming to the dance floor. Ming followed her lead. Lena guided his hand to enclose her waist to lessen the distance between them. Ming felt like this was deja vu.


    "You need to be more intimate with me." Lena scruffed at the stiff man.


    "Why?" He was not understanding what Lena was up to now.


    "To prove that she still likes you."


    "I don''t care." Ming replied, truly, without a care in the world. "I told you, there is nothing between us now."


    "But I do." Lena loosened her hands on his neck and gently placed her head on his shoulders. They slow dance while taking their time to do a full 360. Lena made sure that Ming Zhao saw the concerned glances the Eva kept throwing at them.


    Lena left his shoulder and looked up at Ming. She smugly smiled at him. "You saw that didn''t you." Lena tempted him.


    The music stopped and Ming wanted to walk away. However, Lena pulled him back and make sure her arms were embraced tight on his neck.


    "I am not done with you." Lena sternly spoke. This time she was not smiling. The music started again and Ming was stuck again with her.


    Ming Zhao sighed. He didn''t know that it would turn out like this. "What do you need to say, you can say it to me somewhere else." He spoke.


    "But you might run away. This way, you don''t dare leave me on the dance floor." Lena smiled. Ming could feel a bone-chilling conversation that was about to start up.


    "I am a jealous woman you know?" Lena alluring look at Ming. She slipped her right hand past his shoulder and down his chest, resting it on his heart. She stared at her hand and continued to speak.


    "You¡­ you eliminated the entire Beast gang not to cover up my kidnapping, but to protect who was behind it, didn''t you."


    Ming''s heart raced a bit, which Lena could tell because she had her hands on it. Ming took a deep breath.


    "I did."


    "And you said that your feelings were over when she chose Andy."


    "That was the last thing that I will do for her. My goodbye gift." Ming spoke seriously. Lena could tell from his sincere tone of voice. She looked up to him again.


    "So¡­ If I were to have my revenge, you wouldn''t interfere?"


    "No." Ming slightly smiled. "Maybe I would even help you."


    "Hah.." Lena chuckled too. "Really you." Lena put her hands back on his neck and they continued to dance. "How did you find out that Eva was connected?"


    Now that Ming already exposed and confirmed that Eva was indeed involved, Lena wanted to know what Ming knows.


    "Detective skills 101, follow the money." Ming replied.


    Lena evilly laughed softly just for both of them to hear her. "Sorry¡­ I just thought she was a bit more intelligent than that considering she figured out enough to let other people do her dirty work. I can''t really see what you both see in her except her innocent fake face."


    Ming did not enjoy Lena throwing harsh comments to him. "I don''t see what you see in Andy."


    "Well, he''s rich. He can independently run his own company. He''s a stubborn mule like me. He got a sexy body, definitely missed seeing that. Oh, and he is good with kids. Husband material." Lena casually replied.


    "But back on topic. Tell me more about the money." Lena demanded.


    "The money was traced to an offshore account but it was linked to Eva''s name. She could have been easily framed, but the money did at one point got to withdraw out by her. The security cameras from the bank confirmed it."


    Lena was not surprised that Ming had thought it through and carefully check that it was Eva. "But that does not explain how she got the money." Lena questioned.


    "I don''t know where she got the money. Could it have been from Andy?"


    "No. Andy would never openly give money to people. He was a businessman, he kept great records of his cash flows. The only income he would give Eva was his black credit card, never would he be stupid enough to give the anyone money that could be easily liquated."


    Ming Zhao would refute but he himself would also never openly give easily liquidated money or assets to people. They are not called kings of business for no reasons.


    "So what do you plan to do now that you know about this?"


    "I don''t know yet. I feel like there is something missing."


    With that, the music end and everyone clapped.


    "Mind if I have your next dance, Ming Zhao?" A cheerful voice spoke.

 Chapter 70 - Hes my friend, but not him

    Lena poked her head out from Ming''s body blocking her view of the person who spoke. Her eyes sparkled when she saw who it was.


    "Hazel!" Lena walked to her. "Absolutely, Ming-ge will dance with you."


    Lena winked at Ming and left them together. Before Ming could deny the offer, Hazel already dragged Ming to the center of the dance floor. The next song started and both of them were dancing away.


    Lena gracefully walked to the group of handsome man that caught her eye. She grabbed a small glass of champagne along her way there.


    "Fancy seeing you here today Mr. Li, or are we close enough to be calling each other by our first names now?" Lena greet the man.


    "Keep your friends close but your enemies closer." Kris replied.


    "So¡­ am I an enemy or a friend?" Lena cutely turned her head slightly to the side.


    "Neither."


    "I would love to ask Mr. Li for a dance, but considering your special circumstances, will a drink be okay?"


    "Miss. Shen, you can surely join us here." Lay happily replied before Kris could say something. In the end, he just said nothing.


    Lay and Lena clicked instantly, it didn''t take long before they started addressing each other by their first names. They were chatting about business and girls. Lena was giving some insight to the young women in high society.


    For Kris, his only goal for attending this event today was to keep an eye on his enemy. When the Yang requested to host the event here, Kris automatically accepted the offer.


    He wanted all the chances he could get friendly with the Yang family. However, he also needed to not play it so desperately. He had sent spies into the family and so far, there has been no location of that man.


    Hazel was able to steal Ming Zhao for three dances before she stopped and head towards Lena, who she spotted with a duo of hot men. Ming Zhao already made an excuse to run off somewhere else.


    ''Is being single making Lena such a magnet for handsome men? Her bestie needs to be more single then so I can get my fair share of fun too!'' Hazel screamed excitedly in her head.


    "Hello." Hazel spoke when she arrived at the crowd.


    "Ah gentlemen, let me introduce you to my best friend, Hazel Yang." Lena spoke.


    "Hello!" Lay held out his arm to shake hands with Hazel.


    Lena saw that Kris''s eyes perked up as he just had a bad idea. She scooted just a tad close to him.


    "It won''t work on her, she is a very touchy woman, if I may remind you." Lena spoke silently to Kris.


    Kris''s hope immediately died down. He had just recalled all the rumors about Hazel Yang. She was indeed a very physical woman.


    "Lena! Why didn''t you tell me you have made new friends?" Hazel asked.


    "I didn''t. He''s my friend, but not him." Lena pointed to Lay and then to Kris. "I am friends with Madam Li though." She added frivolously at the end.


    Kris rolled his eyes and moved away from the group. He signaled Keso (his bodyguard) and they both went out of the room. He needed some space. He was getting stuffy from all the womanizing eyes staring at him. He felt suffocated.


    Lena saw Kris leaving but she continued to chat with Hazel and Lay. After awhile, she left the two of them and went to seek Henry who she had not seen at all today. She spotted him talking with her father. She went toward them.


    "Henry. Father." Lena greeted them.


    "Lena." Shen Mao spoke. "Henry had just told me that they had just discovered a way to kill the infection. Other companies with infected farms are also reaching out, offering huge sums of payment for the cure."


    "That''s great, Father."


    "Yes it is. I am very thankful for Henry''s hard work."


    "CEO Shen is praising me too much. It is really what Lena said that allowed the scientists to find the solution." Henry emphasized.


    "Really?" Shen Mao looked approvingly at Lena. "I am a proud father."


    They chatted a bit more but Lena felt tired after a while. The party still had a few more hours to go but she told them that she wanted to leave early. Lena had planned to arrive with Ming but not leave with him.


    She called for Kye and James to come pick her up. It would take them about 10 minutes to get here so that was enough time for her to head to the bathroom. She used the toilet, washed her hands, and saw that one of her hair pins came loose.


    She tried fixing it, but the friendship bracelet that Gary gave her got entangled to her hair. Lena was getting irritated, so she removed the bracelet. She also removed all the hairpins and undid her hair.


    Her hair gently flow down her back. Lena grabbed her items, put them in her wristlet and left. James had texted her that they had arrived at the back entrance. There were still paparazzi''s at the front entrance.


    When she got out, she saw James already outside the car waiting for her. He opened the car door for her and she got in.


    Lena sat herself comfortable at the back seat. She heavily sighed. Lena had a long day and she was tired. She swept her hand to pull back some of her front hair to the back. She noticed that she was not wearing her bracelet.


    She remembered that she had just taken it off in the bathroom. She opened her small wristlet, but the bracelet was not there too. Could she had forgotten it in the bathroom?


    "Wait." Lena called to Kye who was driving. They had already left the back entrance and onto the road. He pulled to the side.


    "Is there something wrong, Miss. Shen?"


    "Go back. I forgot something."


    "Ok."


    Kye U-turned and turned back. He rounded back and park. Lena was about to get off, but James stopped her.


    "What did you forget? I will go get it for you." James offered.


    "I might have dropped it in the ladies room though."


    "It''s fine. You are tired, I can go retrieve it back for you."


    "Ok. It''s just a bracelet. The one I always wear." Lena said.


    "I know what it looks like."


    James hopped out of the car and went into the building. Lena did not really want to lose this gift. She opened the door, suggesting that she wanted to go out.


    "Are you leaving?" Kye asked as he opened his door to. If Lena wanted to leave, he should follow her.


    "It''s fine. I just want to stand outside and look at some stars. You can stay here."


    "Alright then."


    Lena got out and closed the door. She noticed that they were not the only car out in the back entryway. She walked past the car to go out of the large roofing that covered the drop-off and pick-up area. Lena stared into the dark skies. There were not many stars out yet. She should buy a telescope sometime. She was getting a bit cold and head back to the car.


    She walked past the second car but stopped in her footsteps. The windows were tinted really dark, and the lighting at the back entrance was not very lit.


    She would need to complain to Kris about it. She placed both of her hands on the backseat window and planted her head to look inside the car.


    ''Isn''t that¡­ Gary?''

 Chapter 71 - Its gonna be a rough ride

    Lena continued to stare through the glass. She was sure that the man inside the car was Gary. She would never mistake him for someone else.


    She moved her face a bit further from the window and knocked on it with her right hand.


    "Gary?" She spoke, hoping that he could hear her. However, it looked like he was unresponsive. She stepped back and looked at the car.


    Lena was confused about the situation. Gary does not have a car, and why is he even here in the first place? She walked closer to the car again, this time trying to open the door. It was locked, no surprise there. She started knocking on the window again.


    "HEY!" A man''s voice shouted from behind her. "Get away from that car."


    Lena turned around and saw two men. But what caught her eyes was that they had guns. Although they tried to hide it in their back, Lena still caught it. Lena was sure that the securities of the event and the hotel were not dressed like them.


    "KYE!" She screamed for him.


    Kye also saw the same thing as Lena when the voiced yelled out. He had already pulled out his gun. However, Kye was slower by a second and the other man took a shot at Kye. Everything happened so quickly.


    "Get down!" Kye yelled at Lena.


    Lena ran to hide behind the car that Gary was in and ducked down. Kye knew that these people were not very ordinary. He returned a few shots, to which the men went back inside the entrance for cover.


    But he was lucky enough to shoot down one of the men. But what Kye did not expect was that there was another man behind him.


    This one was in charge of watching the young man in the car. But, he needed to pee so he excused himself to the bushes and did his business there. Then he took a smoke break. He was enjoying the night sky when he heard several shots.


    He came around to see Pablo shot down already and Dan was shooting inside from the building. The man, Harold, pulled out his own gun and took Kye by surprise. He took a shot at Kye.


    Kye took a direct hit on his stomach and turned back to hit Harold on the leg and again right in his head. But before Kye could focus back on the man inside the building, he saw the man he was shooting by Lena already.


    Dan smacked Lena on the neck when she turned to look at Kye who got shot. Her body dropped and he dragged her into the car as two other of his men continued to shoot at Kye. He started the car while the other men covered each other to enter the car.


    Dan sped off even before all the doors were closed. Their mission was incomplete but they had to get out of here because the shots must have caused some noises.


    James arrived just as the car sped off and took a few shots but Kye yelled. "Stop¡­ she''s in the car."


    "What happened?!" James carried Kye quickly into the back seat, rushed into the driver''s seat and drove off after the car.


    Kye was losing a lot of blood. "Dammit!" He ripped off a piece of his shirt and tightened the pressure on his open wound.


    James continued to chase after the car. "Are you going to be ok?" He glanced up to check on Kye using the back mirror.


    "I am fine." Kye grunted. "Just make sure you don''t lose that car."


    James stepped on the gas. He still had sight of the car. He also multitasked and pushed a button to call Noah but it did not go through.


    "F*ck! They are jamming the signal." James shouted when he could not use his phone too. He swayed the car back and forth as the car chase sped through the traffic.


    "Just keep following the car."


    To worsen their luck, another car was following them. James can see the car and a bunch of men with guns. They were closing in onto them.


    "Hold on, it''s gonna be a rough ride." James told Kye. Kye took a deep breath and opened his window.


    "You drive, I''ll shoot." Kye suggested.


    Kye stuck himself out of the car window and shoot. He hid back inside when they returned fire and this continued.


    "Where is Noah when you need that man to drive a damn car!" James joked among the intense situation. Noah was a master skill driver, that was why Lena always had in on driving duties.


    What James did not expect was that another car approached them from the right and rammed them over. It was larger and James swerve off the road and crashed into the ditch,


    "F*uck!" James yelled. He knocked his head and it was bleeding. He quickly grabbed his gun. "You still there Kye?"


    "You drive like my grandma, and she doesn''t even know how to drive."


    They both knew at this point they had lost Lena and they will have to shoot their way out of this.

 Chapter 72 - Where is she?!

    They both stayed in the car and made no movements, waiting for the enemy to make the first move. They were outnumbered so they had to play patiently.


    "You, go check to make sure both of them are dead."


    James and Kye could hear them talking. They silently just nodded and give each other eye signals. Since Kye was injured, he will stay back and do cover shots for James.


    They spotted five men total from the two cars. It should be easy for both of them to take them down.


    One of the men opened the back door to check on Kye first. Kye shot him and James popped out from the passenger side door and shot two men straight in the head before the others backed off to get cover from their cars.


    "Three more to go." James nodded to Kye. He got into the back seat with Kye when the enemy fired back.


    "There''s two behind that car and one behind the other." James was looking out and passing the information to Kye.


    "We have to go out." Kye expressed.


    "Are you good for that though?"


    "I''ll be fine. I have rested for a while now."


    "Alright then bud. I''ll take the two and you take that one."


    They both nodded in confirmation. They waited for the moment the enemies were reloading their guns to hop out of the car and ambushed them. There were many shots fired between the two groups.


    James shot the first man down and kicked the other guy. He wanted to save at least one. He was about to tie the conscious man to the door but got an unexpected kick that made him stumbled.


    James quickly got up and brawled out with the man. He delivered a straight hard punch to him before getting a shot to his head.


    "KYE!." James yelled but there was no response. He tied the man that was still alive up and went to find Kye.


    He found Kye on the ground with two more gunshots on him. He was still breathing but not speaking. James saw that he was in very bad shape.


    "Hold on, keep the pressure. You will make it, brother."


    Kye shook his head. He knew he was bleeding out too fast. "Miss¡­"


    Kye tried to say something but coughed up some blood. "Don''t talk. It''s only going to make it worse."


    "Gary." Kye tried really hard to finally spoke that word out.


    "Hmm?"


    "He¡­ other person" Kye coughed again. "Car with Miss."


    Kye took one deep breath and stopped moving. James took his pulse and cursed. He started chest compressions for a few minutes before he stopped. He looked at his bloody hands and gulped in some air.


    James closed Kye''s eyes and went back to his prisoner. Guess luck was not on their side today, the man bit his tongue and bleed to death already. James shot the man a few times out of anger.


    He heard his ringtone sounding from the car and went to pick it up.


    "Is Lena there with you?"


    It was CEO Shen. His voice sounded short and urgent. "James?!"


    "I am sorry CEO Shen, Miss has been taken again."


    -- Different viewpoint --


    Lena told Henry and Shen Mao that she was leaving. When she left, Henry continued to talk to Shen Mao about the proposals from the other companies.


    Yang Bo, Andy''s father, got up to the stage and spoke into the microphone. "May I have your attention?"


    The room went silent and everyone''s attention was toward him. "My son and Miss. Wu will be cutting the cake now."


    Yang Bo nodded and the kitchen staff rolled in a large 5 layered cake. Everyone took their seats at their assigned table and waited for the couple to show up.


    However, after a few minutes, nothing was happening. Everyone started looking at each other confusingly.


    "Sorry for the delay, just a moment." Yang Bo announced. He walked off the stage to speak to his wife. "What is going on?"


    "I don''t know. Andy said he could not find Eva." Madam Yang replied.


    "That woman, how inappropriate!"


    There was a loud clunk and everyone turned to look at Andy who was angrily entering the room. Eva told him that she needed to use the bathroom. After her not returning for some time, he went to look for her.


    They had scheduled for the cake cutting in a few minutes and Eva knew that it was important. She wouldn''t miss this part of the event. Andy went and knock on the ladies room. After hearing no noises coming inside for a while, he went in. He checked all the stalls and the room was empty.


    However, he says a few items dropped on the floor. He picked them up. One item was Eva''s white flower corsage and the other was a bracelet that looked very familiar to him.


    He pondered a bit before remembering that it was something that Lena had always wear. He tightly gripped it and walked out of the room. ''That woman, she dared lie to me!''


    He opened the door roughly, disregarding the eyes looking at him, and walked straight to where Hazel was sitting. He abruptly grabbed her arms.


    "Where is she?!" Andy screamed.


    "Ow, ow, ow. You are hurting me." Hazel whined.


    "Tell me. What did you and Lena do to her!"


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about! Ow."


    Andy was causing a scene and when Shen Mao heard Lena''s name, he stood up in alarm. ''Didn''t Lena said she left a while ago?''


    Henry gestured Shen Mao to sit and that he will go check on the situation. At the same time, Yang Bo and Madam Yang rushed up to Andy for him to relax.


    "Andy Yang! You are hurting Hazel." Madam Yang reprimanded her son.


    Andy let go of Hazel but his eyes were still engaged.


    "CEO Yang, Lena had already left while ago. She called in for her guards to pick her up. Do not falsely accuse her like that." Henry spoke clearly so everyone can hear him.


    "Really? Then isn''t this hers?" Andy held up her bracelet. "I found it with Eva''s corsage in the ladies room."


    The audience disregarded the notion that Andy entered the ladies'' room and instead gasp at the evidence he held.


    "Just because those two items were seen together, does not mean Lena had anything to do with this. I could easily say that Eva did something bad to Lena."

 Chapter 73 - I can see bodies!

    The crowd gasped at the sudden turn of events. They all looked at each other and back to the men who were bickering back and forth.


    "What reason does Eva --"


    *Bang Bang*


    Everyone suddenly jerked up from their seats from the sound of the loud bangs.


    "Is¡­ is that gunshots?"


    "What? HERE?!"


    A few women screamed as the gunshot continued to be heard from a distance. Kris automatically signaled his security team to do crowd control.


    "Everyone calm down! Please take a seat. We will handle this." One of the security men addressed the crowd.


    Everyone sat back down with some shivers and chatters. They could see that the Yang security and Li security were checking the surrounding area. They should not be afraid.


    Keso came back inside the event area to report to Kris.


    "What is the situation?" Kris asked.


    "There are two dead bodies in the back entrance. Seemed like a gunfight broke out."


    "How did this happen?!" Kris was a bit irritated that it happened here and tonight. "What are your men doing, sleeping?! Useless things."


    Kris stepped out of the room to assess the situation himself. He arrived at the back entrance where there were two bloody bodies and lots of shell casings. Glass shards are seen on the parkway and some by the entrance windows that got shattered.


    "Do you know what happened here?"


    Kye didn''t respond and just lowered his head.


    "Tsk." Kris was about to walk back in but he saw a few concerning people walking with lightning speed toward him. His men blocked them before they could reach the crime scene. Kris walked to meet them.


    "What happened here?" Andy was the first to ask.


    "CEO Li!" Henry called his name. "Miss. Shen used the back entrance to leave." Henry was concerned about the whereabouts and safety of Lena, the entire Shen family was.


    "Oh my gosh!! I can see bodies! Who died?!" Hazel screamed.


    "SHUT UP!" Kris yelled at the noisy woman. Hazel quickly stopped shaking. "I am going to go look at the cameras. You guys can come along, but she can stay." Kris pointed at Hazel.


    "But I ---" Before Hazel could complain, Andy shot her a don''t-you-dare look.


    Hazel stood in the hallway and watched them walked away. She quickly grabbed out her phone to dialed Lena. It rang but no one picked up. She called a few times before calling Gary. Same results. She couldn''t do anything so she returned to where everyone else was.


    Kris arrived at the control room and head directly to the supervising screen and did his own search. If people cannot work the way you want them to, you just do it yourself.


    When Kris searched for the videos, none of them existed for the back entrance nor any of the entrance for three hours.


    "What does this mean?" Andy asked. "There are still no signs of Eva."


    "Keso." Kris called for him. "Run the recovery process using the backup system."


    Kris always used high-end cameras for all his security. If the camera itself was never broken and still live to record, the record may not have reached the main database but they had a hidden backup database installed.


    Most people don''t know about this and only block the pathway from the live recording to the main database. It will take about a few hours to recover the videos.


    "Can you check the cameras for the bathroom hallways?" Henry asked.


    Kris quickly searched and open up the file database that stored that area. "I have them here."


    "Lena left around 6:10 p.m."


    Another more keystrokes and mouse clicking and Kris pulled up the timeframe. He skimmed a bit until they saw Lena entered the bathroom. They all closely looked at the screen, without blinking. Lena went in and exit the bathroom after 12 minutes. She headed out to the back entrance and they followed her steps until it reached the point where the cameras were shut off.


    "The shooting was heard around 6:50, Lena would have been far gone by then, I hope." Henry spoke, but he was still unable to contact her or her guards.


    "What about Eva? Go back to the bathroom hallway." Andy persisted.


    Kris went back. Soon after Lena left, Eva entered the bathroom. However, the situation was different with her. A few men with masks entered the bathroom and shortly exited carrying Eva out unconscious. The group of men split up. Four went back out to the back entrance while the other two, who has Eva, went toward the west exit.


    Kris moved through the cameras again to find Eva but lost her again when they hit another roadblock where the cameras were cut off.


    "Hold on. Go back a bit." Henry spoke. Kris went back a few slides. "Pause."


    Henry''s heart rate dropped. "Lena¡­" He mumbled under his breath.


    Kris zoomed in and recognized the man in the hallway. "Isn''t that¡­ one of her guards?" He asked.


    The time stamp was 6:45 and it looked like James was heading towards the bathroom. They continue to look at the video and see that shortly after when the shooting was heard, James ran back to the scene.


    "Sh*t!" Henry swore. "I have to go back." Henry quickly left them.


    He does not know much about Lena''s security but CEO Shen had all access to them. All he remembered was that Lena said she was only going to call James, but CEO Shen called another one. If he recalled correctly, Lena had three bodyguards. They might have contacted the third person.


    As Henry head back to the event room, Andy and Kris were still in the control room.


    "This is your fault, CEO Li." Andy snapped.


    Kris stood up and raised an eyebrow. He smirked at the man who was only a few centimeters shorter than him. "My fault? I remember that it was the YANG family who requested their personal security instead of the ones I could have provided. YOUR family even highly requested that I lessen my security tonight to not scare away your guests."


    "Tsk¡­ It''s you and your stupid security. I swear that if anything happens to Eva, I will sue your entire empire." Andy threatened him then went his own way.


    "Keso." Kris called out.


    "Yes, boss."


    "Work with Lay. I want a full report on why this happened. No one should have broken through our database unless it was an inside job."


    "Yes, boss. What will you be doing then?"


    Kris took off his outer jacket and unbuttoned his sleeves. "To make sure I don''t get sued."


    "By the Yang company?" Keso was confused. That little threat should have not scared his boss, much less scratch him. Kris Li had many scarier threats than that before.


    Kris grinned. "Not at all. But for sure a little rogue tigress would."

 Chapter 74 - Fiance and Ex-Fiance

    Henry arrived back at the event area as fast as he could. Shen Mao and Shen Milli rushed to him right away when they say him back.


    "How was the situation out there?" Shen Mao asked.


    "I think something happened to Lena." Henry replied. "Have you got in contact with her yet?"


    "No. I have called her and both of the guards with her. No answer."


    "What about the third one?"


    "That''s right! I have forgotten about Noah."


    Shen Mao urgently dialed Noah. Noah was enjoying a quiet family dinner when he received the call.


    "CEO Shen." Noah answered.


    "Noah. Have you heard anything from James or Kye?"


    "I have not, sir. Did something happen?"


    "We don''t know for sure."


    "If can access the security reports and check their locations."


    "Yes, please!"


    "Please wait a moment." Noah excused himself from dinner and went to his office. He opened up his laptop and quickly pulled up the app locator.


    Lena''s signal was out of service, James was still active, but Kye''s¡­ ''This is bad.''


    "Sir, James signal is still on and moving. I can connect the call."


    Noah dialed up James'' number. I rang a few times and it was finally answered.


    "Is Lena there with you?" Shen Mao quickly asked as soon as the call was connected.


    Noah was just carefully listening. ''There was no sound of struggling or shooting, so it must be a good sign right?''


    "James?!" He yelled through the phone when he didn''t get a response.


    An unsteady and deep voice could be heard through the phone. "I am sorry CEO Shen, Miss has been taken again."


    Shen Mao was suddenly shorter of breath. ''Not again, not his precious little daughter.'' Shen Milli was close to breaking down in tears but she held strongly next to her husband.


    "Husband, breathe. Take deep breaths. Lena will be fine, she''s a smart girl." Shen Milli tried to console her husband.


    "Where''s Kye?" Noah asked through the phone.


    "We chased after the car but got ambushed along the way. We lost her. There were some crossfires and¡­ He didn''t make it."


    "Stay there. We will come to you." Noah replied.


    "Noah... " James was about to say something more but stopped knowing that it might scare more of CEO Shen and Madam Shen. "Be here quick."


    -----------


    "Ugh¡­" Lena groaned as she regained consciousness. She tried to touch the spot where she was hit on the back but her hands were tied. She wiggled around a bit on the hard floor, trying to get comfortable. The room was dark except for a flickering light bulb that was hanging from the center of the ceiling. She heard a woman who kept whimpering and sniffling on the corner opposite of her.


    "Lena?" Gary called out to her.


    "Gary?" Lena blinked a few times to adjust to the darkness. "Where are we?" She finally recalled the situation she was in.


    "I don''t know¡­ God dammit would you stop crying!"


    It was the first time that Lena saw Gary spoke so loud. Their mouths were not shut closed, and considering there are no windows, they must be deep underground somewhere. This may be bad news because her tracker may not have any signal down here.


    The woman started crying louder instead. Gary ignored the cries and looked back at Lena who seemed pretty calm. How could he forget, this was not the first time she was in a situation like this.


    "Eva?" Lena got a good look at the girl across her. She remembered that Eva was wearing a simple white dress just as the woman across her. Along with her sweet and high cries, it was definitely Eva.


    "I¡­. I¡­" Eva kept crying loudly and could not finish her sentence.


    "She''s been like that since they brought her in." Gary sounded very irritated at the situation.


    "Why is she here? Why are you here?" Lena asked.


    "Sorry, Lena. I did not think you would get involved in my mess. I--"


    The door that locks them in fiercely opened. Two men strode in. A bright light entered their dark room from the hallway. Lena looked up to see her captors.


    Eva hurriedly went down and started begging. She held onto the man''s leg. "Please.... Please let me go. I.. I won''t do it again, I promise! Wahhh¡­ Tell her I won''t do it again!"


    "Stupid peasant." The man shook his leg off Eva''s begging hands. He stared straight to Lena. "And here I thought we were going to have another crying b*tch."


    Lena stared gently at this man. She knew that if James and Kye were not here by now, her captors were professionals. And whatever they wanted with Gary and Eva, she was just a bystander, who could easily be discarded.


    She knew she could not play the strong card here. She lowered her head and look down on the floor, making herself look weak.


    "Please... Please don''t hurt me." She pretended to stutter. "I am Lena Shen, my family is rich. They will surely pay for me." Her bright eyes looked up at the man.


    The man slapped Lena right across her face. She did not expect that.


    "Lena! Don''t you F*cken touch her!" Gary yelled and struggled but he was tied up really good. Unlike Eva and Lena, Gary''s hands were tied to some pipes.


    The man laughed and grabbed Lena''s hair and pulled it back so she was staring right at his face. Lena saw that he had a scar under his eyes.


    "Is that the trick you played last time, hmm? Is that how you got away? Won''t work here missy." He snickered.


    Lena did not reply. At this point, she knew why Eva was here. Eva was just a tool and someone bigger was behind this all. Eva was involved in her last kidnapping, not as the mastermind, but to be the scapegoat. This was her unsolved piece of the puzzle.


    The big question now is, ''Who is "her."'' Lena could only think of one person who was strong enough to be the one pulling the strings. With the proof of Eva and this man, whom Lena know exactly who he was, that "her" could not be anyone else but Madam Yang.


    "Pity, because I will make sure you die today, along with your boyfriend too." The man spoke. The man pushed Lena down on the floor. He straightened up his stance, pulled out his gun and licked it.


    "Now, who should go first? The fiance," He pointed the gun to Eva."ex-fiance," This time toward Lena. "or half-brother."


    "What?" Lena spoke without a thought. The man was pointing the gun at Gary.


    The man maniacally laughed. "Didn''t your boyfriend tell yah? He shares the same mommy as your ex-fiance."

 Chapter 75 - Shen Qian

    Lena suddenly looked at Gary with an unknown feeling. She does not know how to react to this. Gary avoided her stare and Lena felt like had been lied to this whole time.


    "You knew!" Lena spoke to Gary. "How long now?!"


    The man let them talk out their emotions. He enjoyed this drama.


    "Just a few years ago. It was after I met you though."


    "Were you ever going to tell me? Does Andy know?!"


    "You think I wanted to have a mother like that?! To know that she abandoned me for money? That I am a bastard son from her affair?! I don''t want a single breath of me involved in that family!" Gary shouted angrily back at Lena.


    "Ok, ok children." The man interrupted them. "Should I let you guys rock, paper scissors for who goes first?"


    "No.. No no no no. They both hate me, it''s unfair!" Eva protested. "Take me to her. She can''t do this. I.. I am pregnant with Andy''s child!"


    "Tsk¡­" The man was angry. "Drag her out."


    The other man did as he was commanded. He dragged Eva out as she continued to scream.


    "You can''t touch me! I swear I am pregnant! Madam Yang!!!!! You can''t kill your own grandchild! AH!"


    The door shut tight with a thud and Lena jumped a bit from the noise. She closed her eyes.


    ''Everything is going to be okay¡­'' Lena tried to convince herself. She opened her eyes and looked at Gary, then at the man holding the gun at him. ''You are a blessed child.'' She repeated that, hoping to calm her down.


    "Tsk¡­ Your mother gave her one simple task, get rid of Lena Shen or get away from her son''s life."


    "Why would Madam Yang want to harm me?" Lena asked.


    "If you had married into the Yang family, it would just mean more wealth. Andy would easily take over the Shen company. But that dumb piece of crap has to come in and ruin the plan."


    He walked closer to Lena. "Madam Yang was hoping you would fight away that pest, but you stopped. Got weak. And then you got yourself too close to her enemies. But¡­"


    The man looked towards Gary. "She remembered that she still had a son she could use. He was already chasing you like a dog¡­ If he would pop a child in you, she would officially let him enter the Yang Family. Too bad, he refused. You both could be alive right now."


    Lena looked at Gary. Gary met her eyes and looked down. "I''m sorry that I did not tell you about it earlier."


    The man tapped his gun against Lena''s cheek and force her to stare at him only. "If Madam Yang cannot have your family''s wealth, then she would just steal it."


    "I am not even the next person to take over the Shen business."


    "You talkin'' bout that secretary? He''ll be next on my list, don''t you worry. Your papa gonna be so sad, he won''t even know what to do when the wife dies next. The Yang family will step in and help him in crisis."


    "Crazy dogs!" Lena shouted and spit at the man. He just wiped off the spit and continued to laugh.


    "For that, I''ll start with your boyfriend."


    He aimed the gun at Gary, tilted his head a bit. He raised the run to level with Gary''s head and took his shot.


    "NOO!!" Before she could think, she had already reacted. She quickly stood up in front of Gary and took the bullet.


    Lena let out a small breath of air and looked down here she got hit. All she could feel was the intense pain and the loud ringing in her ears. She could not hear the screams of Gary behind her.


    "Stupid woman." The man spoke and tossed Lena down on the floor. She curled onto the cold damp floors.


    Her mind went blank again, like that state she was in the first time she was kidnapped. She could hear more speaking but not make out any of the words. Lena could only hear three more shots before the man walked out the door. She closed her eyes. Her brain blacked out for some time.


    When she woke up again, she did not know how much time has passed. She could still feel the pain on her stomach.


    "G..Gary?" Lena tried to call out to him. Her back was facing him, so she could not see him.


    "AHHHHHH." Lena tried to change her position. Her hands being tied up at the back was restraining her. "F**CK!"


    After another try, she was able to sit up. She turned around and saw Gary down on the floor. His hands were loose but he wasn''t talking. She could tell that he was alive because she could hear him breathing.


    She cried but stop a bit. "No use crying right now¡­" She told herself.


    Lena lay on her back. She took another pause for some quick air and embraced herself for the pain that she will experience. She brought her legs up and forced her hands to loop around the front.


    Lena screamed at the excruciating pain, but she made it through. She took another small break before untying herself with her teeth. After releasing her hands, she ripped off the bottom of her skirt and put pressure on her wound. She scooted her body next to Gary. Standing up now would be too much energy for her.


    "Gary¡­" Lena whispered his name. He opened his eyes. He was going to say something but Lena stopped him.


    Lena inspected his wounds. He was shot on the left shoulder, right leg and chest area. He was bleeding a lot. Lena don''t know why he was even still alive.


    She took the pressure off her own wound. There was too much blood, all of their clothes are soaked already. She tossed away the piece of clothing she had before on her and use her hands instead. Lena placed it on top of Gary''s chest.


    "Stay with me, Gary. You are not gonna die here." Lena cried. "You can''t leave me¡­ you promised."


    Lena could feel that his heart rate was dropping. She was not feeling well herself. Her body was getting weak from her own blood loss. "I''m sorry. Please¡­ just hold on. Help is coming."


    Gary moved his hands and brought it over Lena''s small hands that was over his wounded chest. He smiled at her. He grabbed her hand and placed it on his cheeks. He wanted to smell her sweet scent one last time.


    "Shen Qian¡­" Gary spoke.


    "Huh..?" Lena stopped crying. "What did you call me?" Lena stared at Gary but he closed his eyes. "Gary! Ahh.."


    Lena''s body went lumped and she fell back. Her mind went dark again. She tried to open her eyes again, but they won''t budge. Her hands were still holding Gary''s.

 Chapter 76 - Fake Tears

    After a minute, she could hear the door open and someone entered the room with heavy footsteps.


    "Sh*t." The man spoke. The voice sounded familiar, not one of her captors.


    The man walked into the room and the first thing he saw was Gary and Lena on the floor, both bleeding out. He went to check on Gary first because he had the most wounds. He checked his pulse.


    There was still one but very weak. He went next to Lena and check her''s. It was weak too, but stronger than Gary''s.


    "I found them. We are at the lowest level. Need immediate medical attention." He spoke to his earphone.


    He dropped his gun to the side and unbuckled his gears. He took off his outer shit and tightened the wound on Lena. Lena suddenly opened her eyes.


    "No¡­ Gary." She shook her head. ''Not me! Take care of Gary first!'' Lena screamed inside but could not get the words out. The man did not hear her and Lena closed her eyes again. This time, she went into an unconscious state.


    --------


    When she opened her eyes again, she was not in the damp dark room. There were bright lights around her and she was moving really fast. She could see several people. They were doctors and nurses.


    "Hello? Miss? You are going into surgery right now." One of the female nurses spoke to her.


    Lena just blinked.


    "What was her name? She''s not responding."


    "Patient Shen Qian. Sustained heavy injuring from a car crash."


    ''What did they say her name was? Shen Qian? Was she back?'' Lena was very confused. She tried to feel her body and it aches all over. ''I can''t be here¡­ I need to make sure Gary is fine.''


    "Pressure is dropping! Get us into that surgery room now!"


    "We lost her! Starting chest compressions."


    Lena''s mind went black and dark. She could no longer hear anything nor feel anything. Her body was peaceful as if she was really dead.


    ''I can''t die yet¡­ I still haven''t found love yet.''


    "You are a blessed child" The granny''s voice echoed in the silent darkness.


    Lena''s body jerked up and she opened her eyes.


    "Lena?" Shen Milli was scared. It looked like her daughter had just woken up from a nightmare.


    Lena glanced to her side. "Mom?"


    Shen Milli quickly sat on the bed and hugged Lena. "It''s alright. You are safe now."


    Lena looked around. She was in a hospital room. ''Didn''t I went back?'' If she was still here then¡­


    "Gary."


    Shen Milli released Lena. "You have been sleeping for four days now. You need to stay in your bed."


    "Is¡­ Is he dead?" Lena stumbled to say that work. "Don''t lie to me."


    "He''s in a different room."


    "I have to go see him" Lena removed the blanket from her and was preparing to get out of the bed.


    Shen Milli stopped Lena. "You''re going to open your wound."


    "I just need to see him. That''s he okay, please." Lena was almost into tears.


    Her mom sighed. "Wait here. I will go get someone."


    Shen Milli left and came back with a nurse and a wheelchair. They both gently helped Lena to the chair and Shen Milli pushed Lena to Gary''s room.


    When Lena entered the room, she saw Henry by Gary.


    "You''re awake." Henry walked over. "You should not be up and going about so soon."


    "I just want to see him." Lena replied.


    "You watch her, Henry. I will go get something for her to eat." Shen Milli walked out of the room with the nurse.


    Henry pushed Lena closer to the bed so she could see him. Gary was hooked up too many machines.


    "The Doctor said he was out too long before they resuscitated him. We did not do anything, we wanted to wait for you." Henry explained.


    Lena crouched forward and held Gary''s hand. She placed her head on the table. "What''s the situation now."


    "The situation is all over the news. We tried to cover you and Gary but they somehow got hold of the information."


    "What about Eva?"


    "The Li and Yang group both overtook the rescue mission. Eva was found first. She only had minor injuries and already left the hospital yesterday."


    "She didn''t say anything about the people who took us?"


    "Her statement to the police was that she was unconscious the entire time."


    Lena laughed. She lifted her lead up and stared at Gary. "Such a liar.


    I am sorry Gary. I¡­ I told you once that revenge was not the way to go, but for you, I will make sure they feel our pain a thousandfold."


    Henry could feel the chills from her cold voice. There was a sudden knock on the door. Two policemen entered the room.


    "Sorry, but we heard that Miss. Shen had woken up."


    "She had just woken up and you are already here pestering her?" Henry declared.


    Lena turned her wheelchair toward the policemen and held Henry''s hand. "It''s fine. They are just doing their job." Lena smiled. "How can I help you?"


    "Thank you, Miss. Shen. We just want your statement. Do you remember who did this to you?"


    "I¡­ I don''t remember." Lena lied and faked a confused expression. She tightened her grip on Henry''s hand. "I only remember hearing the shots. I am sorry." She pretended and released few tears down her face.


    Henry knew she was faking big time. He put his arm on his shoulder to console her. "It''s fine Lena, you don''t have to remember what happened. The doctor said that you may be to shock to recalled the events?"


    "Really?" She puppy-eyed Henry and the policemen.


    "Ah¡­ Miss. Shen, we won''t force you to recall the events. It is fine if you do not remember anything. We only hope that you are well and recovering."


    The two policemen tilted their heads and left the room.

 Chapter 77 - Teacher

    Lena watched the door close before her eyes turned cold again. She wiped her tears and turn back to face Gary. His body was lifeless on the bed, but Lena knew he was still there. She''s not giving up on him.


    "Why did you lie?"


    "I am still too weak." Lena was not talking about her body, but also her assets. Gary was one of her best resources.


    "You know who did it though?"


    "You can''t tell my parents. This our battle, Henry. We are the ones who will carry the Shen family."


    "I will always have you back Lena."


    "Who was the one who saved us?"


    "I don''t know the exact details on that. You would have to as James."


    "That''s right¡­ How are James and Kye?"


    Henry didn''t want to tell her, but he knew that he should. "Kye did not make it. He died during the car chase."


    Lena folded her hands into fists. Her fingernails, digging into her skin. "Make sure he gets a good funeral¡­ and notify his family."


    ''I am not going to falter. I will have my revenge. Don''t you know Madam Yang, if you can kill someone, make sure you do it the first time or they will keep coming back.''


    Shen Milli returned back to the room. She told Lena that she can visit Gary later after she has eaten. She also already called Shen Mao that Lena had woken up.


    She was obedient. She ate her food, and spend a long time with both her parents. Shen Milli assured her that the AURA and SKYNE were doing fine. And Shen Mao was successful with the cure and sold many of it to other companies.


    Their company growth increased by 50% this past few months. With the continued progress, they will be at the top. Shen Mao got into a contract with a good security company and increase the safety of his family and company.


    Lena forced her parents to return home and that she was fine with just James. She did not want so much attention because she wanted to rest. Tomorrow was going to be a new day.


    Lena woke up bright and early the next day. The nurse came in and changed her bandages. They told her that it was healing fine and there will only a small scar. Lena did not care about such small matters. She had other things to focus on.


    "How are the things I asked you to do?" Lena asked James.


    "They are doing well. The items you requested a while back from Gary did arrive too. I had them move to your apartment. Noah and I cracked open three of Gary''s rooms, but we cannot get into the master room."


    "It''s fine. Leave that one out."


    "Are you sure he''s not going to get mad at you?"


    Lena smiled. "Nah¡­ He''s just going to build a stronger wall next time so I don''t go through his stuff."


    Lena did not want to dive into Gary''s private life but she needed his technology. She will keep his master room lock and untouched. She really just needed his computer room. Noah and James were skillful enough to able to use those type of stuff that Lena doesn''t know.


    There was a light knock on the door and the door opened. Kris walked in with Keso. He was holding a bouquet of flowers. Lena stared at him with alarm.


    "They are from my mother." Kris walked over and place them along with all the other flowers and get-well gifts. "There''s not a bomb in it, I promise."


    He walked over to the sofa and sat comfortably on it. His arms were spread out wide and rested on the back. He raised his right leg up on his other knee. "Well, you are the one that requested me to be here. I am a busy man you know?"


    "Hello to you too." Lena greeted him. "I know you are very busy. I would have come to you instead but the circumstance does not allow me to. I just want to thank you personally."


    "What for?"


    "I know you were the one came into the room."


    Kris paused and placed both of his feet on the floor. "I only did that to call us even."


    "Even?" Lena raised an eyebrow.


    "I wanted to harm you before, but now I saved you, so we are even."


    Lena laughed in high pitch. "You already apologized for that. You gave me that pearl necklace¡­ Now that I think about it, where is it?" Lena looked up at James who shook his head. He does not know where it is.


    "I took it back." Kris disclosed.


    "Why? You gave it to me, you can''t just take it back."


    Kris cleared his throat. "Unless¡­ you put a damn tracking device on it, didn''t you." Lena snapped. She turned away and scoffed. "Wow! I knew it was too good of a gift."


    "I guess you can say it saved your life."


    "I still want it back." She demanded.


    "Is that why I am here?"


    "No." Lena calmed herself down. "I once told you that the enemy of my enemy is my friend. But you don''t want to be my friend. Be my teacher instead."


    Kris raised his eyebrow. "Teacher?"


    "Teach me how to take someone''s life."


    "And why would you think I would make a good teacher?"


    "You¡­ your a man who didn''t even bat an eye to kill a sweet perfect lovely lady like me. You are perfect for the job. Teach me your ways." Lena''s eyes lit up.


    "You''ll never be able to do it." He quickly denied her offer and stood up to leave.

 Chapter 78 - Lucky Charm

    "Wait! I am not done yet." Lena pointed out.


    Kris stopped and turned back to Lena.


    "You saw him. The man with the scar on his face. The same man I showed you a picture of a while back."


    Kris lifted his chin. "He got away."


    "No. With your team, he would have not slipped out of the area. You let him get away. Why?"


    Kris walked up to Lena. "You want me to be your teacher? Anyone here can tell you that saving a life is easier than taking one."


    Kris moved his face closer to Lena. Lena could see his dark unwavering eyes and his distinctive cologne. "I choose to save someone instead. You cannot raise the dead but you can still chase after the live ones."


    Kris saw Lena''s firm eyes and a strong heart. He walked back to take a seat on the sofa. "So student, tell me, what is your next step."


    Lena brightly smiled and looked up to James to show that she was successful. "Play them."


    "And how are you going to do that? Madam Yang had played you a few times now. And her pawn has Andy wrapped around her fingertips."


    "But she made several mistakes. I am still alive, and I know what can bring her down."


    Kris approved this behavior from Lena. When you get knocked down, you get back up stronger. Hit your enemy with their weakness, something Lena had been doing this whole time to him.


    "Gary is the half-brother of Andy." Lena stated.


    "Say what?" James was shocked. Everyone else in the room did not expect that. They looked at Lena to continue.


    "Madam Yang had an affair and gave birth to Gary. Gary is her worst mistake. If the Yang family knows about this, it will ruin her. We need to find out who she had an affair with and make sure Gary is safe."


    Lena looked out the door. "He is our ace card."


    Kris did not know this change of information. With this, as Lena said, it will be easier to take down Madam Yang. He had already figured out who the inside man that she sent into the Li Group. He will use the mole and fired it back at that witch.


    "Are you not trusting me too easy?" Kris questioned Lena.


    "No. We both have the same end goal. As long as I am not useless for you, you won''t harm me. Plus¡­ your mom likes me."


    Kris sighed and pushed his hair back with one hand. ''His mother....''


    "So¡­ how easy it is to fake someone''s death?"


    "Not that hard, Miss. Shen." Keso replied.


    Lena discussed a few more things with Kris. Kris told her that he will take care of Gary. Their first plan of action is to use the news to cover up their story. "Miss. Shen has PTSD and boyfriend died from kidnapping."


    Allowing the news to spread will secure Lena and Gary''s safety. Madam Yang would not be able to look for Gary and Lena would just be a piece of wood. Lena was feeling tired so Kris said they can talk again next time.


    "Oh, I forgot to give you this." Kris took out something from his pocket.


    "AH! That''s my lucky charm."


    "It dropped."


    Lena grabbed it from Kris''s hand and kissed her lucky charm. This must be the reason she is still alive! Lena recalled back a bit to when Kris entered the room to save them.


    "By any chance¡­ did you carry me out?" Lena asked.


    "Me? Touch you? I think you would be dead if I did that." Kris looked her up and down. "You look pretty heavy too."


    "Hey!"


    "Rest well, student." Kris turned away and waved his hand. Keso followed him out. Kris closed the door and look at Lena through the glass window on the door.


    "Why did you not tell Miss. Shen the truth? You did carry her out and thankfully they were able to revive her on time."


    Kris''s hand was shaking just thinking about it. He opened and closed his hands before putting it in his pockets.


    "She does not need to know about it. And don''t let her know about it."


    -- Small Flashback ---


    Before he came here, he saw that man running the opposite way. However, he told Keso to chase after him while he goes check out the way the man came from.


    Kris took off his outer shirt to use it for bandaging. It was hard for him to find the wound since Lena was wearing a tight qipao. The dress was already ripped so he just tore it more, up to her waist. He wrapped his shirt around her waist to keep the pressure on her wound.


    "I don''t want to go back."


    He could hear Lena rumbling some nonsense and then she stopped talking. He checked her pulse again and could not feel it. Kris could feel that his body was already agitated and reacting from touching Lena.


    However, he dismissed it. He quickly started chest compressions and checked her pulse. Her heart was beating again but it was just a faint pulse. At this moment, he did not know if Gary was still alive or not. He made the choice to save one and he should focus on saving one.


    Kris knew that he needed to carry Lena out before her heart stops beating again. He stood up and shook out his legs and arms.


    "She''s a man. She''s a man.." Kris stared down and look at Lena. He stared back to the wall. "A man...Just a man. Ah, F*ck it!"


    He punched the wall then crouch down to carry Lena. He saw something slipped out of Lena''s dress. It looked like a ribbon. He grabbed it and stuff it in his pocket before carrying her out of the room. He was running as quickly as he can out of this suffocating place.


    When he reached the exit, the medical team saw him running out with Lena. Kris quickly dropped Lena''s body on the stretcher. Keso came out after him and rushed to check on Kris because he had blood all over him.


    "I need to punch someone." Kris spoke.


    "What?" Before Keso could process what Kris said, he got punched right in the face. He turned back to see that something was wrong with Kris. Keso wiped the blood on his lips and looked behind Kris to see that Lena was outside.


    The medical team was using a defibrillator on Lena.


    "She''s back. Send her out to the hospital now!"


    Keso focused back on Kris, whose hands were slightly shaking. "Are you fine? You can hit again if you want."


    "I am fine."

 Chapter 79 - Bedtime Story

    Lena sent James out so she could take a nap. She tried closing her eyes but some part of her was scared that she will not wake up to this place. Has she become attached here?


    Lena held up the lucky charm and stared at it as she recalled the words the old granny spoke to her.


    "Die and be reborn, only then will your true soul be fully merged with the body."


    Lena touched her heart. Did she really die and experienced a rebirth? Did her original body die too? Was that the scene about the car crash? What about Gary? Lena was absolute that he called her Shen Qian before he went silent.


    Lena laughed softly to herself. It is ironic that she refused to follow the footsteps of a villain, but she is willing to take a life. Who is she to blame for it though, she guessed that this had always been her personality.


    Lena closed her eyes. "Goodbye, old Lena¡­" She fell asleep.


    --------


    She dreamed of being back in that dark room. Eva was laughing like a crazy woman in her corner. And Gary was bleeding on the floor, lifeless. The man with the scar continues to shoot Gary''s dead body.


    "You killed him." Eva laughed pointing at Gary''s body. "YOU. KILLED. HIM!"


    -----------


    Lena jerked up from her bed. Her entire body was sweating and it was leaking to her wound. Her wound was getting irritated. The room was dark and silent.


    "James?"


    James popped in from the hallway, letting in some light. He looked at Lena who was soaked. "I''ll go get a nurse."


    "No. Can you stay? And turn on the lights."


    "Ok." James walked in and turned on just one light so it was not too bright for her since she just woke up. He pressed the call button and poured some water for Lena.


    "Thanks."


    The nurse came in shortly after. She helped Lena changed out of her hospital gown and switch out the bed sheets to new ones. Her wound was cleaned and re-bandaged. Lena thanked the nurse and she slouched back on the bed.


    "How do you deal with it?" Lena asked James.


    James looked at how pale and tired Lena was. He turned to face the lights on the ceiling.


    "Everyone deals with it differently. Sleep it off, drink, talk to someone, sex, fights¡­ For me, I choose to look at the positive side and remember that we are still alive. I embrace the fact that there are still people who care about me and continue to live on for them. It''ll always be there, but don''t make it hurt you. That is letting them win."


    Last time, Lena was able to get through her trauma because she spoke cried her heart out. "What time is it?"


    "It''s 3 am."


    "Can you do me a favor? I want to go sleep in Gary''s room."


    James was unsure if it was possible but he did it anyway. He got a male nurse to help set up a bed in Gary''s room for Lena. It took them only a few minutes.


    Lena did not want to use the wheelchair so James carefully carried her over to the room. He placed her gently on the bed and asked if she needed anything else.


    "Can you read my a bedtime story too?" Lena joked. "You would make a great father, James."


    "I know." James just smiled and left. He knew that Lena wanted to spend some time alone with Gary.


    Once Lena saw that James closed the door, she stood up and walked to Gary''s bed. She made sure she was being cautious. Lena tied the lucky charm on Gary''s wrist and walked back to her bed.


    She had to sleep straight so the wound would heal properly. She looked at the white ceiling.


    "I don''t want you to die. Am I being selfish again for not letting you go? You have to wake up soon so we can go beat up your mom. Can I put make-up on you? Ughhh¡­ I don''t know what I am saying. Just wake up okay?"


    Lena turned her head to glance at Gary''s baby face. "I am scared, and I need you buddy."


    She did not know when she fell asleep again but this time, she had no nightmares. She spent the next few days sleeping in Gary''s room before Kris scheduled to move Gary out.


    Kris was relocating Gary to his own private safe house with a team of doctors. He assured Lena that Gary was will be taken good care of.


    Kris told Lena that she was not allowed to visit Gary. If she wanted to, she would need to contact him first. The less Lena visits Gary, the less the chances of him getting found out that he was still alive.


    After Kye''s funeral, they hosted one for Gary. The news rapidly released articles about Lena and Gary. At first, the did not obtain Gary''s name but later on, his name was plastered on every front page as "Lena''s dead boyfriend."


    Shen Mao and Shen Milli were angry at the news and wanted to shut it down, but Lena made up an excuse to stop them.


    Lena has dismissed Noah from working in the field. She told him that his skills were best used by taking care of Gary''s place and being her tech guy until Gary returned. In truth, she did not want Noah to leave his family. He still has a lot to live for. It was another week before Lena was released.


    Lena was packing her stuff to leave the dreadful hospital. She wished that she would not need to visit this place anytime soon. James knocked on the door and entered the room.


    "Are you ready?"


    "Yeah."


    Lena put a scarf over her hair and wore a sunglasses. She was going to use the front exit and there was already a large group of reporters. This was planned by her and Kris already. Shen Mao''s new security blocked the reporters and James guided Lena out of the hospital.


    "Miss. Shen, are you still mourning your boyfriend''s death?"


    "Miss. Shen, is it true that you have PTSD? Did you get shot?"


    "Are you returning back to work?"


    "What is your relationship with CEO Zhao if Gary is your boyfriend?"


    Lena continued to walk and got into the car. James went to the driver''s seat and drove off. Lena removed her cover-up and looked out the window. She had just one more stop. James pulled up to the graveyard and Lena stepped out with a yellow lily. Lena walked further until she reached a large gravestone with Gary Chen''s name engraved on it.


    "Hello, Gary." She placed the flower on top of the grass by the gravestone.

 Chapter 80 - Slaying Dragons

    Lena spent a few minutes around Gary''s fake gravestone and then head back to the car.


    "How was it?" Lena asked James.


    "I think you did great. Some reporters were following you."


    "Good."


    James drove out of the graveyard and back to the main road.


    "Where will you be going now?"


    "Head to University A, I need to go pick something up."


    James turned around and drove to University A. This time around, he made sure there were no more people trying to follow them. James stopped outside the gates.


    Lena texted her university kid workers to come out and bring her completed program along with them. She saw three scrawny young men walked out. She opened her door and exited the car.


    "Big sister!" They ran towards her.


    "Do you have it?"


    "Of course we do!" The older one of the boys handed out the drive.


    Lena took it and tossed it into the car. "I already sent the money to your accounts."


    "Ok." They were all cheerful. "Is it true that your boyfriend died?"


    "Shouldn''t you be more focused on your grades than the nonsense that the news release every day?" Lena scolded the boys.


    "Fine. We won''t talk about your boyfriend. So when are you going to have us meet our new master instead? We really want to meet the Master Hacker."


    Lena rolled her eyes. They are the same person!


    "Next time. We are busy slaying dragons." Lena spoke. She got into the car and waved goodbye to the boys.


    Lena needed to return to work tomorrow. SHYNE would be launching their next season items. Lena wanted to spend her first night away from the hospital by herself, but her mother called her that the Yang family invited them over tonight.


    Shen Milli said that it was a celebratory dinner for Lena and Eva, that they both made it out alive and well. Lena texted her teacher that she will be there tonight. Lena stopped by her apartment, got a nice change of clothes, then headed to the Yang mansion.


    Here it is¡­ Lena was going to enter the dragons'' lair. James came and opened the door for Lena and she stepped out gracefully. One could not tell that she just got out of the hospital. Lena patted James on the shoulder.


    "Goodluck on your mission, Sir James."


    Lena did not think she would enter the Yang mansion so soon. This gave her the perfect opportunity for her to bug this entire place. Using the gadgets from Kris and her own that she got from Gary, she will make sure there is not a spot in this house that goes unnoticed.


    "Miss. Shen, everyone else is already inside. I will take you to them." Lena nodded and James followed behind them. Along their way, Lena casually talked to the worker and James was able to slip out unnoticed.


    Lena really did not need an escort because she has been in this mansion many times before. They entered the main dining area and everyone was cheerfully chatting.


    "Lena!" Madam Yang got up from her seat and came up to give Lena a hug.


    "Auntie!" Lena cheerfully smiled back. "I missed you."


    Madam Yang took a good look at Lena. "I am so thankful that you are alright. I was praying every day for your good health!"


    "Thank you Auntie."


    "Come, come. Sit."


    Lena sat down on the chair. Shen Mao and Yang Bo sat at the ends, opposite of each other. Shen Milli and Madam Yang sat to one side, while Andy, Lena, and Eva sat to the other side.


    Lena grabbed hold of Eva''s hand. "Eva, I heard you were there. I am so glad you are safe too."


    "Oh.. yeah." She looked at Madam Yang then smiled at Lena. "You only heard?"


    Lena let go of her hands. "I don''t recall anything. Only the shooting from outside the hotel. The doctor said that I must have been in great shock so my brain is blocking out that memory."


    "That''s good. I was glad that Eva was unconscious the entire too. You both don''t need to recall those events." Andy spoke.


    "I agree. I am glad to have that in the past."


    The food was served. There was much delicious and nutritious food on the table. However, 80% of them were vegetables and Lena was a bit sad.


    Just then, one of the kitchen maids placed a few specialty meat dishes near Lena.


    "I remember that you enjoy eating those dishes, so I had them made especially for you." Madam Yang added.


    "Thank you. Auntie always knows me the best." Lena cheerfully dug in, but after knowing that it was made "especially for her," Lena was eating just enough to make it look real.


    They ate for a while before the table was cleared. The elders wanted to move to the living area so they can talk some more. Lena excused herself to the bathroom.


    "Do you want me to show you where it is?" Eva offered.


    "I know where it is."


    "Ah.. right. You have probably been here more than me."


    "You shouldn''t concern with the past no more. After all, you will be living here." Lena hinted.


    Eva smiled to which Lena left and head to the bathroom. Once she got inside, she went over the toilet. She hovered over it, put her hand on her throat and puked out all the food she just ate. Just to be on the safe side, Lena decided to do this. She washed her mouth and went back to the living area.

 Chapter 81 - Relapse

    Lena went and sat by her mother. "What are you talking about?" She noticed that her dad and Yang Bo were not here.


    "What do you think? My mother and yours are setting you up for dates already." Andy replied.


    "Ah?? Mom¡­"


    "Lena, we all know Gary was not your boyfriend." Shen Milli stated.


    "You are getting older now, Lena. Even Andy has engaged already." Madam Yang added.


    "That''s because he is a man. He can marry whomever he wants to!" Lena pouted.


    "But are you not already close to Ming Zhao? Or I have seen you close to Madam Li too¡­ do you like her son?" Shen Milli stated without realizing what she said. Lena glanced at Madam Yang who seemed to have a reaction from that statement.


    "Mom¡­ you know I am only nice to Ming Zhao because we have business with them. And I only talking to Madam Li twice. She only wanted the items from the Virtuous set. You really don''t have good eyes at picking out men. Let Auntie choose my next date."


    "That''s right. Milli, let me choose." Madam Yang agreed. "How about Andy''s cousin? He is quite successful in City B."


    "Drew?" Andy asked.


    "Yes, him. Don''t you think he would pair up nicely with Lena?"


    "He¡­ alright, I guessed."


    "That''s good then, even Andy agreed. I can set up a date for both of you."


    "Wait, Auntie." Lena interrupted her. "Let Andy introduce us. Old people¡­ introducing don''t work well. It will be too obvious and put stress onto the atmosphere."


    "Very well then. I will leave it to my son."


    Shen Mao and Yang Bo came back to the living area. Their talk must have ended too. The Shen family bid their farewell since it was late and left. Lena told her parents she would go to her apartment tonight and visit them another time.


    She got into her car to which James was already inside. "Was it successful?"


    "I got most of the areas."


    "Even the bathrooms?"


    "Yes."


    "Phew. I was getting tired of smiling and being in the same room as them."


    "Your teacher would be proud of you."


    Lena squinted her eyes at James. "Are you trying to make fun of me?"


    James started the car and they both drove off. Lena made him stop and they got some fast food before going he sent her back to her apartment. She made sure that James would pick her up early tomorrow for work.


    Lena grabbed her bag of fried chicken and got up the elevator. When the elevator door opened to her floor Lena got out and stopped. There was a body on her hallway.


    She quickly reached for her bag to search for her phone. ''Dammit, it must have dropped out in the car.''


    Instead, she pulled out a pen. This pen is a one use-item that would send a powerful electric pulse to the body that can cause a concussion. She carefully walked closer to the body. She used her leg and kick the legs of the body.


    No movement. Lena slowly kneeled down to see who the man was.


    "Oh.." Lena blinked. "Krisss?" Lena pulled his head up by grabbing his hair. "It is really him!"


    -------------


    Kris had a long day. He had spent his week dealing with the aftermath since the situation. He had spies all over the Yang company now. He updated his security and technology system in all of his companies. He had a long conversation with his head of security.


    And each time he headed home, he had to deal with his mother''s constant nagging about his grandfather''s upcoming birthday. There was so much going on, today he decided to head to his penthouse at Crescent View.


    Keso dropped him off and Kris went inside. He usually does not need his personal security here. Afterall, this place was owned by him. Not many people know that because he uses a different name. He had his own elevator up to his floor. He lived on the top so the elevator was made special to have a quick speed.


    He walked in front of his personal elevator and hit the button. He waited for a few seconds and nothing happened. He impatiently pressed it again a few times. Kris got a bit irritated. The elevator guy quickly approached Kris.


    "Sorry, but the speed elevator is down today. We notified you. Our security system upgrade required that to be down. It will be up and running tomorrow, Mr. Li." The man bow.


    "Tsk." Kris walked to the normal elevator. He didn''t get that angry because it was his own fault that his speed elevator needed to be down. He was the one that demanded his companies needed to upgrade their security system.


    He entered the spacious elevator and pressed the top floor, 82. He leaned himself back because it''s going to be awhile. Thankfully it was late so not many people were using the elevator.


    After reaching floor 30, Kris felt that he was getting hotter. He loosened his tie and a few buttons. He was not claustrophobic. His body suddenly went weak and he held the railing for support. He blinked a few times before he reached and press whatever buttons on the elevator.


    The elevator door opened and Kris stepped out. He took a few deep breaths.


    ''Was he having a relapse?'' Kris grabbed for his phone but it was too late. He fell face down onto the carpeted floor.

 Chapter 82 - Mom?

    Lena did not know what to do. She poked Kris on the shoulder and then slapped his back really hard.


    "Hmm¡­ he''s really dead." Lena was deciding if she should leave him here or drag him to her apartment. Since he was unconscious, she was sure he would not know that she moved him. She''ll make sure to tell him that James moved him instead.


    Lena put her bag down and get into the position to drag Kris across the hallway to her door. She was somewhat enjoying doing this. It was like practicing dragging a dead body.


    She got to the door and opened it with her keys. She dragged Kris just enough so she could close the door. She went to lock the door but suddenly something pulled her hand.


    Kris slammed shut the door. With his left hand, he held down Lena''s right wrist. Kris pushed Lena against the door and choked her with his right hand.


    "Kris¡­?" Lena cough. "KRIS!"


    He was very strong. He was pushing her weight higher off the floor. Lena stared straight into his eyes and saw nothing. It was like he was not even there. ''Is he sleepwalking?''


    Lena used her free hand and raised it to hold onto Kris''s hand that was chocking her. She scratched it deep with her nails but his eyes were still the same. It was blank. The pain was not affecting him at all.


    Kris used more pressure on her and her entire legs went up in the air. Lena choked hard. She moved her legs to kick Kris and she abruptly put her left hand gently on his cheeks.


    He felt that cold hand on his face. He blinked once to stare at Lena and twice to loosen the choke. Lena''s feet were back on the ground and she took several deep breaths. His hand was still on her neck and her hand on his cheek.


    "Mom," Kris spoke softly. It was the most sincere and caring voice that Lena had heard. It was the voice a young child would call for when they woke up from a nightmare. She similarly has done that with James.


    "Mom?" Lena replied back. She saw that his eyes were different. They were more alive and soft like a child. Lena swallowed. "Um¡­ my son?"


    "Mom." Kris suddenly stopped and went for a big hug. He picked Lena up from the floor. Her back was still against the door and he settled his head on her shoulder area.


    "Oh..oh.." Lena was confused big time. She just stood quietly and made no movement, hoping that it will pass. After what felt like 10 minutes, they were still in the same position.


    His arms were fully around her waist and he was embracing her completely with his head resting on her.


    "Um.. son?" Lena spoke.


    "Mhm.."


    "You should go sleep on the bed."


    "Ok."


    Lena''s eyes lit up that it worked. However, Kris suddenly picked her up and carried her to the first bedroom, which was astonishingly hers.


    "Hey, hey. You''re a big boy now, you can sleep by yourself. Let mommy go." Lena shrieked.


    This time Kris ignore that and lay her gently on the bed and cuddle in with her. It was like a mom and son cuddle, similar to the one before. Kris tightly had her waist in his arms and he rested his head on her shoulder pads.


    ''This is awkward¡­ I should have left him in the hallway.'' Lena instantly regretted her decision and rolled her eyes. Each time she struggled to get out, he tightened his grip.


    "Mom... Please don''t leave me again."


    Lena''s hand were loose so she put them over her eyes. She remembered saying something similar to Gary. She got emotional and a smile formed on her lips. She wiped off a small tear and gave in. ''I don''t know if I will kill him tomorrow or he will kill me before that.''


    She tilted her body towards Kris and hugged him back. "Mommy won''t."


    Lena initially planned to wait out for Kris to fall asleep, but the funny thing was that she went to sleep first. After Kris was sure his "mom" was not leaving, he then finally slept soundlessly.


    In the middle of the night, Lena released her short arms from Kris and turned her back facing him. Her hands tried to grab hold of a blanket but found nothing. Instead, she curled up into a ball from the cold. Kris''s body reacted and scooped up the escaping warmth back to his embrace. They both continued to sleep, unawaringly of their position.


    ---- ---- ----


    James was up early the next morning as Lena had instructed him to. He was a few minutes early but he waited. He looked at the clock again and it was 10 past 6 a.m. James knew that Lena was not much of a late person.


    He turned off the engine and walked inside the apartment building. He told the front desk to buzz Lena, but after a few times, James started to get worried. He went up.


    When the elevator doors opened, he saw an unknown cell phone on the floor and Lena''s bag. James was alerted and pulled out his gun. He slowly went to the door, which was unlocked.


    "Dammit." He silently swore. He gently pushed opened the door. He cleared the living room then the kitchen. Next was Lena''s room. With his gun ready, he quickly opened the door.


    "Miss. Shen?" He walked in and his eyes went wide open. He relaxed his stance and quickly shut the door with a loud bang.

 Chapter 83 - Get out!

    Kris was the first one to be awoken from the bang. Usually, he would wake up right away, but somehow, he felt that he had a good night sleep. When did his bed get so tiny?


    Kris tried to move but his arm was heavy. He opened his eyes to see a woman on his bed! He got off the bed to the side and Lena''s body suddenly woke up like a ghost.


    "AHHHH!" Kris screamed.


    Lena turned to face him and screamed very loudly too. James who was still outside thought best if he did not go in. He will stay outside.


    "Why are you screaming?!" Kris shouted at her.


    "Because you are screaming."


    "Why are you here?!"


    "This is my bed!"


    Kris stopped and looked around the room. He ruffled his hair. This was not his room. He gave Lena a deadly stare. Lena jumped from the bed, standing on the opposite side of Kris.


    "Don''t look at me like that, I didn''t do anything!"


    "What did you do!!"


    At this point, James opened the door. He knew that something was wrong with the situation. Lena quickly moved behind James. She poked her head out.


    "You fainted in my hallway and I dragged you inside. You were like a zombie and you choked me and then you called me mom and then you hugged me and then you dragged me to sleep and then that''s it!" Lena said all that in one breath. She tucked her head back, making sure James was her shield.


    Kris was trying to remember what happened. Lena stuck her head back out.


    "Except that part... where I dragged you in." She stumbled to say that out. She had promised herself to put the blame on James last night but it already slipped out of her mouth.


    From all the experience Lena had with Kris, she knew that he gets aggressive whenever he touches a woman.


    "You called me mom too." Lena reiterated that part.


    "Get out!"


    "But this is my--"


    "OUT!"


    Lena dragged James and shut the door behind them. She looked up at James and then back at the door. "Do you think he''s mad?"


    Lena was going to walk to the door and put her ear on it but it suddenly opened again. Kris stuck out his hand.


    "Give me your phone."


    "I don''t have mine."


    James quickly took out his cellphone and gave it to Kris. "Passcode is 1015." It was the birthday of his daughter.


    Kris abruptly closed the door again. James looked down at Lena. She was still wearing the clothes she had on yesterday.


    "Did you change your bandage?" James asked.


    "Ah.. no." Lena looked down at her wound. The skin has healed but she still needed to clean it until it fully heals. An infection would cause the wound to be reopened and take longer to heal.


    Lena grabbed the first aid kit from the living room and entered the bathroom in the hallway. She cleaned and changed her bandages. She looked at her neckline and luckily, there were only some slight redness and no bruises. They were barely noticeable unless you looked very close. When she came out, her bedroom door was still shut tight.


    "What is he doing?" Lena went to the door and put her ear by it. She could hear the water of the shower running. "He''s taking a shower?" Lena looked at James. "What is going to wear?"


    James shrugged his shoulders. Lena shook her head and went into her kitchen to brew herself some coffee. This is going to be a while. Her coffee finished brewing and she gave one to James. She walked to listen to the door again, and the shower was still running.


    Lena sighed. "Is this how it feels when you wait for me while I get ready?" Lena asked James. He nodded slightly.


    They both drank their coffee and stared at the bedroom door, hoping that it would open any minute. Lena''s doorbell rung and James went to see who it was.


    "It''s his Secretary."


    "Let him in."


    Collin walked into the apartment with a set of clothes. "Oh, Miss. Shen is still here?"


    "This is my apartment. And your boss is in my room. How do you think I am going to get change? Call my secretary with my imaginary phone and hopefully, she flies over and gives me clothes?" Lena responded.


    Collin cleared his throat. He walked towards the bedroom, assuming it was the correct one because Lena kept staring at it like she wanted to break the door down. He knocked on it.


    "It is me." Collin spoke.


    Kris suddenly opened the door. His hair was still dripping wet but he had a long towel tied to his waist. Lena popped her head out to see that.


    "Hey! That''s my towel!" She pointed out.


    "You''re still here?"


    "Why do you guys keep asking me that? This is my home. I just moved in and then I got shot so I never unpack much stuff. All of my clothes are in there!"


    "Oh. Why didn''t you knock? Do you have another room?"


    Lena just stared wide-eyed at Kris. ''Is he f*cken kidding me?'' Kris grabbed the suit Collin prepared for him and walk to a different room to change. Lena stomped to her room and slammed the door.


    Collin looked at James and he just shrugged.


    Lena quickly took a shower, but also made sure her wound was still fine. Her day was already starting later than she had planned. She got dressed and walked out the door. Kris was casually drinking her coffee.


    "You are still here?" This time she asked the question.


    "I was waiting for you."


    Why does she feel like the situation got flipped? Kris placed his coffee cup on the table. He stood up to Lena, making sure there was a good distance between them.


    "I want to apologize to you."


    "Huh?" Lena was a bit of a shock. Last time she asked for an apology, it was¡­ problematic. Did he learn how to apologize?


    "I am sorry. There are¡­" Kris cleared his throat and try to think of the proper way to say it. "Some things that I need to do before I can talk to you about what happened this morning."


    Lena could tell that Kris was struggling to get the word out. She recalled how he called her mom yesterday too. Was her heart too big? "Ok."


    Kris nodded and he walked out of the apartment. Collin stood up and bow to Lena.


    "Kriss¡­ he had a relapse from his sickness. He needs to go see his therapist first. I do hope that Miss. Shen doesn''t take what happened today to the heart. Sorry again." Collin stared out to Kris who had left already without him. "He needs some time before he can talk to Miss. Shen about it."


    Collin bowed again and left. Lena stared at the door for a while before she broke eye contact with it.


    She looked at James who was standing alert, waiting for her next command. Lena recalled that James told her that some people use anger as a way to deal with trauma. ''Just what trauma haunted Kris?'' Lena wondered.


    "Let''s go."

 Chapter 84 - Doctor Tye

    Kris was sitting in the car already, waiting for Collin. Collin wondered if he locked the car or not. He shook his head and went to the driver''s seat. Usually, Keso would pick him up, but under the circumstances this morning, Collin did.


    Collin carefully drove them to the company. They were on the streets later than usual and there was much traffic.


    Kris solemnly looked out the window. "I could have killed her." He spoke.


    "But you didn''t."


    "Ugh.." Kris put his hand over his mouth and rested his elbows on his legs.


    "Kris." Whenever Collin or Keso used his first name, it meant they were talking to him as a friend, not an employee. "When you called me, I expected to arrive with a dead body to clean up."


    "Heh.." A smile formed on Kris''s lips. "Are you mocking me? I haven''t killed anyone with my own hands for a year now."


    "But¡­ you also had not had a relapse too since then."


    "Did you call him?"


    "I did. He will meet you at your office."


    "You are not shaking?" Collin looked at him through the mirror reflection. He had noticed that Kris had not once been overly aggressive or start shaking.


    "No." Kris looked at his hands.


    Collin silently was thankful. Keso was not here and he was the only one who could match Kris when he''s not himself. Their group of friends all have their own role, it''s funny.


    There were six of them altogether and they all go by their nicknames. Cole was Collin''s. He was the calamity of the group. Keso, or K, was the big macho older brother. Tye was the doctor. Lay was the cheerful one and Hugh was a bit of everyone else. Then there is Kris, Ada, who was their lovely patient and buddy.


    Collin drove the car up front and went to get the door for Kris. Kris got out of the car and directly head to the VIP elevator.


    "Good morning, CEO Li."


    "Morning, Ceo Li."


    People greeted him as he passed them. Kris slightly nodded in response and went along his way. He got into the elevator and went straight up to his office floor. His entire floor was staff with males. In the past, he did not want to have rumors starting about him about being gay or sexist, but having female workers on his floor was never successful.


    Tye and Hugh made the final decision that no woman was allowed to work on this floor. There were some rumors at the beginning but they all faded away after awhile.


    Kris entered his office and Tye was already dozing off on his chair. Tye quickly opened his eyes and got off the chair.


    "Didn''t I always tell you not to wear your white coat when you enter the building?" Kris spoke.


    Tye looked at himself and noticed that he was wearing one. "You can''t blame me. I was taking great care of your vegetable friend."


    Kris sat down on his chair. "He has a name, you know."


    "I know. But I am trying not to get too attached to my patient¡­ in case they pass on. He is quite handsome."


    "You said that he can wake up if he was under care."


    "I did. But I don''t know if it will be tomorrow, in 10 years or 50 years. Miss. Shen may have given the sign to pull the plug by then. Ah.. but are we not here because of her.. again.."


    Collin made sure the door was tightly locked and no one was to disturb them for a while. He sat down by Tye. They both were opposite of Kris.


    "Now tell me, what did she do this time? Another poke, punch.." Tye paused and look down Kris''s crotch. "Don''t tell me, she finally went hungry¡­ Ah!"


    Kris threw a pen at him and it hit Tye right on the head. "Are you my sex therapist?!"


    "I am your therapist for everything, so yes, you asexual human!"


    "Stop it, guys. Kris had a relapse." Collin expressed.


    Tye cleared his throat and got serious. He thought that it was something minor like the couple last times. Of course, Kris hid the fact that he tried to harm the little girl and Tye threw a fit when he found out. He yelled at Kris that that type of move is the same as if Kris hit the girl himself.


    Tye warned Kris that if he broke out of his therapy treatment cycle, a relapse would happen. And here they are, it happened.


    "I assumed you took care of it, Collin?" Tye asked.


    "There was nothing to take care of."


    "No blood? Bodies?" Colling shook his head to all of them. Tye was astonished. He looked at Kris. "A relapse and no blood, I must be a miracle doctor! Tell me what happened, Ada (Kris''s nickname for the group)."


    "I don''t recall any of it... Except waking up next to her."


    "Oh? She must have said something?"


    Kris tried to recall the quick explanation Lena gave him. "She said¡­that I fainted in the hallway. She dragged me inside her apartment and then I choked her. Then¡­" Kris paused on the next part.


    "Then?"


    Kris got embarrassed and turned his head to the side. "I hugged her and called her mom."


    "Does she look like Madam Li?"


    "No."


    "Was that all?" Tye was curious as a friend and the doctor.


    "I dragged her to sleep with me. That''s it."


    "And you don''t remember any of it. Nothing?" Tye questioned.


    Kris shook his head. "That''s something new. Why is it that when you beat up people, you still recall that memory once you wake up the next day, but when you go and hug someone, you don''t remember any part of it?" Tye pondered


    "Why are you asking me that? Are you not the doctor?"


    "Your case is one of a kind though! Let me think, I am trying to process this information logically."

 Chapter 85 - Trying to sleep with him

    "Tell me more about what happened after, when you wake up." Tye asked.


    "I kicked her out of the room."


    "How did you feel? Angry? Were you having trouble breathing? Did you start shaking uncontrollably again?"


    "I¡­" Kris tried to recall his emotions. "When I first realized that it was a woman on the bed, I was shocked and I panicked. When I realized who it was it¡­ I was scared and angry?"


    "Why? Could it be that even though she does not look like your mom but something in her reminds you of your mom?"


    There was a long pause as Kris tried to ask himself and find the reason. He knew that being directly honestly with Tye was the best way for Tye to properly help him.


    "My mother likes her. She won''t visit my grandparents anymore, but she would go to visit Lena Shen. I¡­ Ugh.." Kris pulled his hair and laid back on his chair. "I fell like a stupid kid,"


    "Why?" Tye was confused.


    "I was scared and angry because if I hit her at that moment, she might go tell my mom. And I can''t get rid of her like the rest of the others."


    Tye and Collin tried to keep a poker face and not laugh. They had to be serious¡­ this was a serious therapy session.


    "Aish¡­ why does my mom like her? She''s like a walking rose, pretty but full of thorns, poking everything as she walks." Kris sat up and his eyes got darker. "She''s not even like a woman."


    "Maybe that''s it! You don''t see her as a woman. She feisty but also soft... like Hugh." Tye theorized.


    Kris paused and laughed. "They are similar."


    Tye stood up. "I will put you back on your medicine. Just some small dosages for safety precautions. Every time you see her now, just think of Hugh. I know we have tried mental re-imaging before, but it might really work this time."


    Tye wrote a prescription to Collin. He looked back at Kris. "Ada, you might have had a relapse again, but I think it''s not a step backward, but forward. You didn''t harm anyone, and that''s a first."


    Tye walked out to the door. He slightly closed the door so just his head could be seen by Collin and Tye. "And I was right. Miss. Lena Shen is a GODDESS!" He slammed the door shut and ran away before Kris could punch him last time he said that.


    "I want a new therapist."


    "Tye has been working on your case for many years now." Collin defended Tye.


    Tye was a genius doctor in his field. However, he was somewhat a crazy doctor with wild theories that are often correct. He does things that are unexplainable but still worked. He initially took Kris''s case as an interest. Along the way, they both developed a budding relationship.


    Tye had discovered that Kris had a mother complex since the start of their therapy sessions. But there are more factors that played into his emotional well being. When Tye first saw Kris, he was a robot.


    Kris was a young adult, with no emotions. His eyes always stared at people like there were dead or were going to be dead. There was a team of professionals who first treated Kris. They had to restrain him in every session they had. They tried all different kinds of medicine and even shock therapy.


    Tye was the first to step out and start treating Kris like a human instead of a patient or subject. He learned that Kris started responded to their development. From then, he was the only one who continued to treat Kris.


    Ever since their group of friends gathered around Kris, he had improved and been more cautious to emotions. But the man still had a while more to break free from his chains. Kris''s only reason to continue such torture was the simple goal of embracing his mother.


    If something were to happen to Madam Li, they would not know what will happen to Kris. Would all their hard work go down the drain? Or would he take the easy way out?


    Tye sighed but hurriedly exit the elevator. His handsome vegetable was still waiting for him. Today was bath day.


    ----------------


    Lena''s day at her office was unproductive. The events of last night and this morning kept disrupting her thoughts. The only thing she got done was getting her program set up. LUX will be here next week for their first official meeting. Andy and Eva already sent in their designs for their wedding rings.


    And there was Ming Zhao. Lena had not heard from him since the shooting. Just this morning when she got into the office, Ming Zhao texted her that he needed a favor from her.


    Lena was exhausted. She put her head on her desk and knock it a few times.


    "Did you turn crazy?"


    Lena looked up and saw who it was. "Hazel!"


    Hazel walked over to Lena. "You didn''t go crazy right?"


    "No!" Lena got up and hugged her. "Ah¡­. I really needed that."


    Hazel propped out an expensive wine bottle on Lena''s desk. "I thought you needed a drink."


    "I can''t." Lena stared at it. "I am still in my healing process until the end of the week."


    "Aish¡­well, I need one."


    Hazel sat down and popped open the bottle. She got up to where Lena kept her glass cups and grabbed one for herself.


    "Why are you¡­ stressed?"


    "I am worried about my cousin."


    "Andy?"


    "Mhm¡­" Hazel drank one full glass in a gulp and poured another one for her. "I think¡­ that b*tch is trying to sleep with him."


    Lena sat down on her chair. She drank water instead. "Why so? That''s normal."


    "But you know Andy¡­ he''s not a man to get laid until he gets married¡­ You even tried it on him a few times remember?"


    Lena suddenly spurted out her water and coughed. Those were her embarrassing moments blinded by love.


    "Andy has changed since he met Eva¡­ but he''s so adamant about his chastity. Boring men..." Hazel complained.


    "Eva does not seem like the girl who would do that." Lena speculated.


    "I thought so too! But I think¡­ I think it is my auntie who is telling her to do so. They have been¡­ so close lately."


    "Oh?" Lena kept her poker face and poured another drink to Hazel. Lena was interested in what Hazel knows.


    "Before, Auntie Yang would always leave the house if Eva was visiting. She dismissed all the workers so no one would serve Eva. But now, she even bought Eva an apartment and started giving her some weird herbal medicines."


    "Maybe she had just accepted Eva as her daughter-in-law. You are just thinking too much. Worry about your own single-dog life." Lena spoke, but she knew what exactly was going on between the dragons.

 Chapter 86 - Fake Girlfriend

    Lena called Hazel''s driver to come to pick her up. She was really drunk by the time she left. Lena made sure there were no paparazzi around in case they snap a photo of Hazel drunk. Lena knew that something else was bothering Hazel, but did not insist.


    She knew that Hazel will tell her when she wants too. However, Lena did get some good gossips about the Yang family from her.


    Lena was able to finish a few basic designs before she headed out for the night. James went ahead to pull the car out front. Some of the employees were leaving too. Lena was stood outside the driveway and waiting for James.


    *Beep Beep*


    A car swerved in front of her and opened its window. Lena peeked inside the car.


    "Ming Zhao?"


    Ming Zhao moved his body closer to the passenger window. "I am glad I caught you before you left. Had you have dinner yet?"


    "No, I have not." Lena looked up to see her own car coming up the driveway.


    "Can I have you for tonight? It''s about the favor."


    "Ok. One moment."


    Lena walked to James and told him that she was going to go with Ming Zhao for dinner. But, he should still follow her the way there. She was not planning to have Ming Zhao drop her off at her apartment. Lena opened the front door of Ming''s car and sat inside.


    Lena looked around the car. If was different from the other car was in last time.


    "I expect an expensive dinner from you," Lena demanded.


    "Hahaha, of course." Ming hit the gas and the car sped off to the main road.


    They drove for a while before they reached the beach-side area of the city. Ming pulled up to a top star tourist restaurant. Lena observed the unique style of the restaurant. The main entrance and the walls were made of red stone bricks. The building was swarm with vines and leaves.


    "Italian?" She questioned.


    "Mhm¡­ you don''t like."


    "No. You are treating anyways."


    Ming parked the car and walked over to open the door for Lena. He tossed the keys to the valet and they both entered the fancy Western-themed restaurant. Lena could smell the aroma of freshly baked bread and a mixture of sauces.


    "It''s a beautiful night. Is dining outside okay?"


    "Mhm."


    Ming already booked a table this morning when he texted her. His mother actually owns this restaurant from her side of the family so it was easy getting a reservation. The hostess led them to their table and gave them their menu. Ming pulled the chair for Lena and she sat down.


    Lena looked at the menu. It was in Italian but also in English. She panicked for a second there, she did not know Italian.


    "Do know how to read in Italian?" Ming asked.


    Lena looked up from her menu. "No, but I know English."


    The hostess came and took their order. Lena ordered a Linguine with lobster while Ming went with pasta with black truffles.


    "So¡­ Do you speak Italian?" Lena knew that he was half Italian but it does not mean he can speak it.


    "I do."


    "I chose to learn French and Spanish."


    "I can speak those too."


    "I usually cook my own food." Lena rubbed in a skill she knew he won''t have.


    Ming did not reply, instead, he just smiled. He did not mean to imply that he knew more languages than Lena. He knew that her years of education was to please her family and Andy.


    "I am sorry that I was not able to come to visit you at all in the hospital." Ming sipped his wine.


    "Busy?" Lena asked. "Does it have to do with your grandfather''s upcoming birthday celebration?"


    "So you''ve heard?"


    Lena smiled. She''s a nosey person. "How''s Project Crystal? Last time I read the reports you sent, seemed like you have it all under your control?"


    "The project is a success, thanks to you. However, I am still a single man. I am sure that if my brother gets married before I do, it will cause some tensions."


    "And that is your favor? For me to be your stand-in until you can take care of your brother." Lena speculated.


    "Woawww." Ming clapped his hands. "You had my plans all figured out already."


    The Shen family may not be one of the wealthiest families of China, but many of the upper families did not have daughters. Likewise, the net growth of the Shen company has drastically increased. Its investors and continuing expansions are reaching towards the top.


    "Sorry, but I can''t be your fake girlfriend. I have an enemy of my own. If our relationship gets any more than professional, it''ll put me in a difficult position."


    Lena knew that she had to keep her relationship on the surface with both Ming and Kris as a business aspect. Any more than that will alert Madam Yang and can trigger the dragon to take more drastic actions again.


    "I cannot help you with that part, but I am willing to help you with anything else."


    "Asking that was already too much. I am already thankful for help so far."


    "If I may ask, why me?"


    "You''re a businesswoman, but also someone who would take advantage of something too if it is worth your time. You know how to control yourself, so I know I don''t need to be a concern with that. And you don''t ask questions."


    Their food arrived and they slowly enjoyed the dinner, under the beautiful twilight. Ming Zhao talked some more about Mike Zhao. Lena offered some insight into his plans. Time quickly passed and Lena left first.


    Ming said that even if Lena could not attend the event as his partner, she should still attend it. After all, Ming will be revealing the research on Project Crystal.

 Chapter 87 - Contaminated Bathroom

    James dropped Lena off outside the apartment as usual. Lena greeted the doorman, the front desk person, and walked to the elevators. The elevator doorman knew exactly which floors Lena lived in. He pushed the button for her. They both waited for the elevator to come down.


    "Welcome back Mr. Li."


    Lena turned her face to the voice of the front door man. "Kris?" Lena called him out. He walked to her. "Why are you here?"


    "I live here. Can I not be here?"


    "What?! Since when?"


    "Since forever."


    "Then why did you use my shower this morning! You made me wait so long!" Lena''s loud voice echoed through the large empty floor and the staff stared at them.


    Kris ignored that comment and walked past her to go to his private speed elevator. Lena followed him, trying to match his footsteps. He stopped and press the button and the elevator quickly opened.


    Lena stared at astonishment. Her elevator is not even down yet! Where did this weird thing appear from?!


    Kris entered and quickly closed the door. Lena jumped back. Then she pressed the button and expected the elevator door to open as quickly as when Kris did it. It didn''t. She pressed it again and It gave her a red blinking "no access" reply.


    "Ah?" Lena was confused. She walked back to Ben, the elevator doorman. "What is that elevator?"


    "That is Mr. Li''s private elevator. Only he and a few people can access it."


    "Private? Can I get one for mine floor too?"


    "Sorry Miss. Shen. Only one was built when the building was designed. And Mr. Li purchased it already."


    *DING*


    Her elevator finally arrived. Lena entered and thanked Ben. She will have to be faster next time to use it with Kris. It was a technology that she had not seen before in any of her worlds.


    ----------


    Lena entered her bedroom and tossed herself to her soft bed. She was tired, but there was no time to be idle when your enemy was still lurking around. Lena decided to take a nice warm bath to refresh herself. She took off her clothes and gently got into the shower. She washed her hair first before washing her body. She still needs to take care of her wound.


    After making sure she was cleaned, she headed to grab her tower. She stopped and stared confusingly at the empty hanger. ''Hm¡­ I am sure I always put it back here..''


    Then it struck her¡­ the scene from this morning. ''Argh.''


    She had more towels, but that particular one was her fluffy towel and there is no other like it. Lena angrily walked to her shower cabinet to grab a new one. Her long black hair was dripping water onto the floor.


    Lena suddenly slipped and fell entirely on the floor. Her flawless skin was kissed against the cold floor. She did not tip due to the wet floor, but instead slid and tripped over something. Her right hand was also tangled on something too!


    Lena glanced at her hand and..''UGH!'' She tossed it to a corner and looked at what other things she landed on. She stared at a white colored shirt and an expensive black suit pants. She shook the clothes off her leg and kicked them to join the corner with the other piece of garment.


    She stared angrily at the three happy pair of family, the shirt¡­ the pants.. And the¡­


    "AHHH! I swear he is never coming inside my house again!"


    She quickly stood up, grabbed a towel and left her contaminated bathroom. She walked to the hallway bathroom to re-wash her body. She opened the door to be greeted by her fluffy towel, neatly draped on the hanger.


    She shut the door immediately. Lena walked back to her room to dry herself. She did not bother for that second wash. She has more important matters to worry about than get herself frustrated over such small things.


    She got into her comfortable pajamas and walked to her desk. She saw her hand sanitizer at the corner of her desk and pushed a lot to her hands. She rubbed her hands together until the alcohol was gone.


    Lena started up her laptop. It had only been a day since the cameras were installed, but Lena was curious to see if anything had happened.


    Kris has them set connected and saved to his private database but he gave Lena access to them, as well as Noah who was now the technical person.


    Lena watched the videos in speed mode and only stopped if something interested her. She spent two hours already skimming through the 24 hours. So far, she knew that Eva stayed over that night after dinner. Despite some obvious gestures that Eva was throwing at Andy, they both slept in different rooms in the end.


    Lena was somewhat happy to know that there are still some original Andy left in him. After a while, she paused on something. The videos have no audio detection because the cameras were too small to have both functions. However, they do have high detail quality.


    Madam Yang visited Eva during the night and they both chatted about something. Madam Yang did not look happy but she gave something to Eva. Lena could not make out what was it that Madam Yang gave her.


    Lena''s laptop does not have any high stuff to zoom in video contents and still maintain the digital quality. She will give the time stamp and camera number to Noah so he can check that out.


    Lena also noticed that Madam Yang called someone right after visiting Eva. Madam Yang was in her office. After the phone call ended, she threw the phone in her trash. She angrily walked to her desk and knocked down a few items off it. Something about that phone call definitely made her angry.


    Lena continued to take note of everything she thought was interesting or that she needed more information. She had a feeling that the phone call was something important. For this one, Lena wanted to do it herself, and she already had an idea how.


    She shut down her laptop and tossed her body onto the bed. She covered herself with a warm blanket and tried to go to sleep. She did not want to think about Madam Yang or the nasty clothes she has to clean tomorrow.


    Lena did not want to have a housekeeper. She was a capable woman who can pick up after herself. She does her own laundry, cooking, and cleaning.

 Chapter 88 - Too much like a woman

    The days quickly when every day was a warzone. It was the day of Elder Zhao''s birthday. Even though Ming Zhao had personally invited her to attend, she was hesitant to go or not. She did not want to steal his thunder for that day.


    However, her parents decided last minute to go visit her grandparents since her grandpa was not feeling well. She wanted to go too, but Shen Mao said that she needed to attend the event to represent the Shen Family. The Zhao family has done a lot to them and they should be respectful and fortunate to them.


    For this event, Lena chose a twilight blue dress, with tulle. As always, she chose the most elegant jewelry to match her outfit. She decided on a set of jewelry that will showcase their next seasonal items from AURA.


    For her hairstyle, she let it down with some simple curls. She had her front bangs clipped up nicely to the side. She finished her looks with a gentle sweet make-up application.


    James texted Lena that he was outside and had already picked up the gifts from the Shen Mansion. Lena quickly grabbed her purse and put on her shoe.


    As she arrived on the ground level, she also saw Kris''s elevator doors opened. He stepped out dressed in a navy blue suit. He was finishing up buttoning his cuffs.


    "Hello, Mr. Li." Lena greeted him.


    Kris looked up to see Lena. He had not seen her dressed up in awhile. She mostly wore her business attires and have her hair up. Today, her hair was down and her eyes sparkled with her dress. Kris nodded at her and buttoned the last of his cuff buttons.


    "You are dressed¡­. Quite extra today. Will you be attending Elder Zhao''s grand birthday today too?"


    Kris did not respond but instead kept looking at her long hair. "You look prettier with your hair up." He finally spoke.


    "Hm.. why? I like it down more." Lena touched her hair.


    "You look too much like a woman with your hair down." Kris remembered how Tye told him to always think that Lena was Hugh from now on. Just like a man, he said. But with her hair down, she definitely does not look like a man.


    Lena was a bit agitated by that comment. ''Is he implying that I look like a man?''


    Lena let out a small scoff. This morning, she pulled herself together to pick up the things that he ignorantly left in her home. She even laundry them and put them in a nice bag. She was going to return them to him, but now, she is just going to throw them away.


    "Well¡­ Your hair is getting longer now. Are you not going to get a haircut?" She replied.


    Kris ignored her comment and walked off. Lena''s widen her eyes a bit. He does this too much.


    "I guess I''ll see you there then!" She yelled out to him. He was already out the door and into the car. Lena gracefully walked, taking her time to get inside her own car.


    "You look nice today, Miss. Shen." James greeted her and opened the car door.


    "Thank you, James. You are a true man who knows how to compliment a woman." Lena smiled and got into the car.


    The Zhao had a few mansions. Ming owned his own, his family has one, and the elders had their own. Lena assumed that Mike Zhao would be having his own one soon too.


    The elders'' mansion was more outside of the city. They enjoyed the peaceful and calamity for their retirement. It took them a while to arrive at the party. Henry will also be attending the celebration, but he told Lena that he will be coming with his girlfriend. Lena was quite excited to meet her.


    Spring was ending soon and summer was around the corner. Today was a bright sunny day with a small spring breeze. The event was held outside. There were many flowers and guest arriving already by the time Lena got there.


    She looked around to see if she can spot Henry. She did not, but she saw that Madam Yang was here with Andy and Eva. And more interesting, Mike Zhao''s woman of choice was Sophia Tang.


    Lena smirked. She guessed that she will have some fun today. ''Sorry Ming Zhao if I steal some of your thunder today.''


    Sophia was one of the girls before who she met at the mall when Lena was shopping with Gary. Lena did not get back at them before but she can now.


    The Tang family were not as rich as the Shen family but they have a good trading business. She turned to James.


    "Make sure you have the presents ready. When I signal you, you have to make a dramatic entrance, ok?" She explained.


    "Then, I''ll be close by." James knew that Lena like parties not for anything else but to get information on the latest gossip and make her evil plans. He made sure to give her her space but always be attentive to her at every second.


    Lena made her way to greet her dragons.


    "Hello, Auntie."


    "Ah.. Lena- darling." Madam Yang hugged her. "Are you here alone? I did not see your parents?"


    "My parents are in City Z visiting my grandpa."


    "Oh no.." Madam Yang held Lena''s hand. "I heard that Elder Shen was not feeling well. I sure hope he recovers soon."


    ''Of course, you evil witch. My grandpa is not going to die anytime soon like what you are wishing.'' Lena smiled sweetly to hide her thoughts. "Oh don''t you worry. Grandpa is probably just faking sickness so my father goes and visits him."


    "That may be it. You children talk, I''ll be going over there." Madam Yang excused herself and went to chat with some other Madam.


    Lena walked to Andy and Eva. With her usual poker face, she greeted them. They casually have a conversation about cake and when their wedding was going to be.


    "So Eva is pregnant?" Lena threw that information out.


    Andy looked down at Eva in confusion. "Ahahah¡­" Eva let out a small laugh. "What are you saying?"

 Chapter 89 - Better Quality

    "She''s not pregnant." Andy firmly spoke.


    "I just remember ---"


    Before Lena could speak, Eva anxiously interrupted her. "You remembered? From that day about what I said?"


    Lena and both gave Eva a weird look. "You said you were pregnant?" Andy asked her.


    "I¡­ I¡­" She looked at Lena but Lena kept her straight poker face. "Lena said she remembered, so I just wanted to know if she remembered that day were we kidnapped together." She held onto Andy''s arm. "I really tried to help her and told them to not hurt her."


    "Didn''t you say you were unconscious the whole time?" Lena taunted.


    "I¡­ Andy.."


    "I am sorry if I said something I should not have. I only said that you were pregnant because Hazel kept bragging about how quickly you both wanted the wedding and how Eva had been staying at the Yang mansion a lot lately."


    "She''s not pregnant." Andy swore. "You should know why."


    Lena knew that Andy was referring to how adamant he was about no sex before marriage. "I know."


    Lena walked and held Eva''s hand. "I am sorry for saying that. I won''t listen to Hazel''s nonsense again. Surely, mei-mei, I can call you that right?" Eva smiled at Lena. "Mei-mei should be patient with big brother Andy. You should not push him for a fast wedding too, especially since there is a problem at the company now. You should be there and support him."


    "There is a problem with the company?" Eva looked at Andy concernedly.


    Kris threw a curveball to the Yang family. He dug up some information on one of Andy''s most famous boy bands and now the news is slowly spreading that the boys were sexually assaulting waitresses. The mainstream news has not yet released much content because Andy had shut them down currently, but he knew that it would get out soon.


    Andy had to deal with this problem before it officially got leaked.


    "Eva you should not worry about it too much. These are just simple business stuff." Lena assured her. "Andy also has me. I have helped him deal with something like this before and since I have taken over SHYNE, my business works have only improved."


    Lena walked over to Andy. "Andy, if you need anything, remember, we are family. Don''t be shy to ask for me. You know that I will always be capable to help you with anything."


    Lena intentionally rubbed some information so it gets into Eva''s mind. Eva was already feeling it. Although she has Andy right with her, she cannot help Andy with anything about the company.


    "Oh, Secretary Han has arrived. I will have to go greet him, excuse me."


    Lena left a distraught Eva. Andy thought that everything Lena said was pretty normal and did not think any more of it.


    "Are you okay?" Andy asked Eva.


    "Oh¡­ I am fine. Let''s go get something to drink."


    Lena had a grin on her face. It felt nice to show Eva that she had chosen the wrong way to be with Andy. Lena pitied Eva. If Eva had kept her kind and gentle heart to be loyal to Andy, they could have been alright together.


    It felt fulfilling to know that all along, Lena had always been right about being a better quality than Eva. The old Lena had a great amount of time doubting that her defeat was because she was a lower quality than Eva. Lena felt somewhat satisfied knowing that she is doing justice to this body.


    From that small conversation, Lena learned that Eva was not really pregnant. So what nonsense she was spouting when they were in that dark room was just so she could be kept alive. However, what Lena does not understand is why Madam Yang kept Eva alive?


    Madam Yang was a smart and cunning woman. She would know that Eva is not pregnant. Eva must have something else against Madam Yang or Madan Yang has more use of Eva. Regardless, Lena promised herself that she will find those answers.


    "Henry!" Lena hugged the man. "And this is¡­" Lena paused and stared at both of them. "Elizabeth Liu?"


    "So Lena Shen has heard of me?" She replied.


    "How could I not?" They both shook each other''s hand. "You are a top movie director, and definitely the best female movie director."


    "I did say you would know of her." Henry inquired.


    Lena gently elbowed Henry. "Aish¡­ I didn''t know you have this in you to attract such a wonderful lady! Make sure you keep her, you won''t find anyone better than her, except me of course, but I won''t take you in."


    "You are embarrassing me." Henry was slightly blushing red from the comments.


    "I won''t tease you anymore. That was just payback for all the times you had teased me. Miss. Liu, I hope we can talk business next time." Lena quickly left the two couples.


    Lena spent the rest of the time walking around and chatting with several people. She got her daily gossip. She was also representing the entire Shen family here today so she had to converse with several businessmen.


    She doesn''t remember how many times they wanted her to meet their sons or grandsons.


    It was time for opening the presents before they can eat. The family each presented their presents first then others can.


    Mike Zhao presented his gift first because a few weeks ago, the Zhao family had already announced him as an official son of the Zhao family. They did not say that he was the firstborn or the next heir.


    Mike Zhao walked up to Elder Zhao and kneeled down. He presented a big box for him. He opened the box.


    "Grandfather, I did not know what you like, but I searched far and wide for this."


    "This is... ginseng?"


    "Yeah, but not just any ordinary ginseng. It is very large and old ginseng."


    Mike quickly showed his present to the crowd. The ginseng was indeed bigger than most. The crowd was amazed.


    "It must have cost him a lot!"


    "He is such a thoughtful son!"


    They continued to murmur compliments to Mike.


    "I wish grandfather a happy birthday and many more years of a healthy life."


    "AHAHA..... Very good, very good." Elder Zhao accepted the gift.


    Because Sophia was with Mike, she also presented her gift. Her gift was an expensive French wine. Elder Zhao seemed pleased with both of them.


    When it was Ming''s turn, he walked up with a small box in his hand. Everyone was concerned about what was in that tiny box. Mike Zhao had presented something so grand, how can Ming present something so small?


    "How can the young master Zhao gift his grandfather something so small?"


    "Do you think he is too proud that he had been their only son for such a long time that he would still be favored regardlessly?"


    The crowded continued to spouse some nonsense but Elder Zhao could clearly hear them. He cleared his throat loudly and everyone went silent.


    Lena smiled from the crowd. ''Stupid people... a gift''s value is not defined by its size but its quality.''

 Chapter 90 - Can finally die peacefully

    Like what Mike did, Ming walked over to his grandfather and knelt by his side. "Happy birthday, grandfather."


    "Mhm.. What do you have there?" Elder Zhao was curious too what this small box held. The box was a cube of 7 centimeters.


    Ming Zhao slowly opened the box for dramatic effect but in the end, he was holding just a metal cube. The crowd laughed a bit but Elder Zhao was curious. He knew his grandson.


    "Grandfather, I present to you, the solution to our family''s 5-year generation of research. I call this the Crystallite."


    "It could not be¡­ you are talking about Project Crystal?" Zhao Lin, Ming''s father, spoke first.


    Zhao Lin and Elder Zhao stared at each other then back at the metal cube. At this point, the crowd was confused. What is the Crystal Project? And why do they look so shocked?


    "Impossible!" Elder Zhao grunted. "I read last week''s report and they were not even close to something new! How can this be the solution?"


    Ming stood up and bow to them. "I want to apologize to father and grandfather. When I learned of the solution, I took my own initiative to the solution myself. I did not want to tell you both for security purposes and I wanted to present to it as you present."


    Elder Zhao was astonished. His heart was beating fast due to the excitement. If this is really the solution, then he can finally die peacefully knowing that the long solution his family had flood sweat, blood, and money into had been successful.


    "Is.. is this really it?" He asked.


    "This is just the first prototype. But it is already showing great results."


    "Impossible¡­. Show me!"


    "Does grandfather want me to show it to you now?"


    Ming asked because this was a top secret. Showing it to everyone will expose it. However, Edler Zhao was too excited. He needed to know if this was real or not, right this moment.


    "Show it to me now, hurry, hurry."


    "If you so then."


    Ming turned around and looked at the crowd. He spotted Lena and she winked at him for good luck.


    "Today is a great day. I present my grandfather a gift that has stump the Zhao family for 5 generations. During the early days of war and poverty, my great ancestors vowed to find a way to help people.


    To this day, the Zhao family has developed high end and affordable technology advancement for everyone. However, today, the Zhao family will mark its name in history. I hope everyone can witness this amazing discovery."


    Ming walked out of the enormous tent shielding everyone from the sun. The crowd and his grandparents follow him out to the sun. Ming signal some of his men and they rolled out a huge machine. Ming connected the cube to the machine''s outlet. He pressed a button and it will do the rest.


    The cube light up and at the same time, the machine started to boot up.


    "What is it? A big battery?"


    "I don''t know."


    "It looks like just a battery."


    "It''s not just a battery, it''s producing its own energy from the sun." Ming answered the question from the crowd. "The cube produces can produce 1 tWh a year. Not only that, it is smaller and cost less to produce."


    There was more stuff that Ming did not bring up because this was a show, not a business presentation. There were still many things that his team had to work on. They got the equation and energy conversion process done, but they still had not found a way to hold all that energy in the compact cube.


    "That much?!" The crowd was amazed.


    "As I told my grandfather, this is only the first prototype. Our final product wishes to produce the same amount of energy like nuclear energy."


    "Nuclear energy!"


    "Imagine a small impoverished town, with this, no city in the world will not have electricity. Electricity should be accessible and affordable for everyone."


    "Ming-ah.. Is this really just the first prototype?" Elder Zhao reassured.


    "Yes, grandfather. I will be sure to show you the lab someday!"


    Elder Zhao stumbled a bit. "Father!" Zhao Lin held his father.


    "I am fine¡­ I am just too happy. Lin-ah... Look at your son. He definitely has the blood of a true Zhao! With him, I can die peacefully... Ahahahah!" Elder Zhao spoke.


    "Do not saw that grandfather. You will live to see the final product, I am sure." Ming replied.


    "AHAHHAHA¡­. You are right. I am proud of you the most. Look, everyone, don''t I have the best grandson in the world."


    Elder Zhao showcased his beloved grandson to everyone. He was still laughing and energetic. The crowd laughed and congratulated him.


    Mike Zhao was in his own corner, plotting the death of Ming Zhao. How dare this man humiliate him like that? Mike knew that Ming purposely presented this item publically to earn not only his grandfather''s favor, but also showing everyone that Ming was the true Zhao family son.


    "Congratulation Brother, on your discovery." Mike Zhao smiled.


    ---------


    Several people presented their gifts to Elder Zhao before it was Lena''s turn. She walked up and elegantly greeted Elder Zhao.


    "Happy birthday. I am Lena Shen."


    "Mhm¡­" Elder Zhao took looked at Lena. He saw that she was a well dressed lady with a nice posture. ''She said that she was Lena Shen¡­ then she must be from that Shen family.''


    "I apologize that my father nor my grandfather was not able to attend your birthday this year. On behalf of them, I would love to present them your gift." Lena lowered her head and smiled sweetly.


    Elder Zhao nodded appreciatively. Lena waved her hand to give James the signal. James walked over, carrying a grand pot of wine.


    "Oh.. is that¡­" Elder Zhao recognized the pot of wine and writing on it.


    "It''s the Royal Alcohol. My grandfather wanted to share the last batch of it with his great friend."


    "AHA. That old man was always greedy with his Royal Alcohol. Last time any of us had a taste was his wedding day!"


    "Should I pour a cup for you?" Lena offered.


    "Yes, yes."


    Lena uncapped the top of the wine pot, and scooped out a small cup for Elder Zhao. He took a small sip and smiled wholeheartedly.


    "This is the best drink! Thank you." He continue to nod approvingly.


    "I also have a gift for you." Lena continued.


    "Oh? I hoped it is not more herbal stuff¡­" He smiles dissipate and he sounded a bit bored.

 Chapter 91 - Having too much fun

    All day, young people had been gifting him herbal teas and supplements. He had expected more from the next head of the Yang family and his fiance, but they gifted him ginseng too. Lena just smiled and signal James to bring in the next item. This time he strolled in with something else.


    "This is a porcelain vase from the Han dynasty."


    Elder Zhao immediately recognized the porcelain vase. It was something he wanted from a friend, but that friend denied to sell the vase regardless of how high he offered.


    "How did you obtain this vase? As I recall, that vase was in the possession of Lin Hao."


    "I got it from General Lin from a business transaction."


    "Tsk¡­ that old general would offer that for business?" Elder Zhao did not believe it one bit.


    Lena smiled. "I am just new in the business. I can never offer anything to please the General himself, however, I cannot say the same to his wife."


    "HAHAHA¡­. Old woman, look at her. Don''t you think she is smart?" Elder Zhao looked over to chat with his wife.


    "Only a smart woman can survive in the business world." She calmly spoke. "Is Miss. Shen engaged?"


    Lena stopped smiling but kept her head down. ''Dammit. Was I having too much fun¡­''


    Lena could see that Madam Yang was also being overly attentive on the conversation now. If Lena said that she was not, then it would open an opportunity for Old Madam Zhao to hook her up with one of her grandsons. And if she said yes, that was obviously a lie.


    "My great Aunt has one set up for me already." Lena casually replied.


    "I see¡­"


    Lena bowed again and left. She could see that her reply was the correct one. Madam Yang herself was quite pleased with that answer.


    Lena did not directly say that she was or was not engaged, she only implied that there was already a man in mind that her family planned for.


    She walked out to go and join Henry and Elizabeth. A few more people showcased their gifts. After the presents, there was food. Lena forced Henry to join her at the Yang table for lunch. He wanted to refuse but Lena said she needed him... For the greater good. So for lunch, Henry and Elizabeth joined the Yang family table.


    Lena sat next to Eva. While everyone was chatting so cheerfully, Lena was able to slip something into Eva''s drink.


    Lena would have wanted to eat more, but there were eyes everywhere. She also had to be on her best behavior with everyone.


    She guessed that one thing she hated about parties was that you had to put on a fake perfect face every time. But she has gotten used to it¡­ you can say that she is an expert at masking emotions at these kinds of events now.


    The party still had a lot more to do, but Lena was ready to leave. She knew Madam Yang will be staying over at the party until late¡­ if she wanted to execute her plan, it would be tonight. She was just waiting until her drugs started working.


    A few minutes later, when everyone was dancing and listening to music, Eva walked out to use the bathroom. Lena excused herself and follow her out. Lena stood in the hallway and waited for Eva to get out.


    When she got out, she was stumbling. Lena quickly went to save the damsel in distress.


    "Eva? Are you feeling alright?" Lena help hooked Eva''s arm and walked her to a bench a chair.


    "I am feeling nauseous."


    "It might have been something you ate. Should I take you home?" Lena offered.


    "But Andy.."


    "Andy needs to stay here. It would be bad if someone as important as he leaves the party. You stay here, I will go tell Andy that you don''t feel and I am taking you home first."


    "Ok."


    "I''ll make sure to tell him to come as fast as he can get out of the party."


    Lena quickly walked back to the main area. She texted James that the plan was going well and to get the car ready. She found Andy talking with the other two kings, Kris and Ming.


    "Excuse me, gentlemen, may I borrow Andy for a moment?" Lena smiled at the men.


    "What is it?" Andy stepped out.


    "It''s Eva."


    "What happened?"


    "She is not feeling well. Probably just tired. I am going to take her back to the Yang Mansion."


    "I should go with her."


    Lena pulled Andy''s arm. "You can''t. You leaving the party early like this would be a bad image for you. Remember, you are representing the entire Yang family here."


    Andy looked like he was in a dilemma. "Then¡­ you take her first. I will come as soon as I can."


    "Ok. I''ll make sure she is fine."


    "Thank, Lena."


    "Mhm.."


    Lena walked back out to where Eva was sitting. She supported Eva until they got into the car. Lena gave Eva a bottle of fresh water.


    "Drink this. It should help until we get you to the Yang Mansion. I am sure after a good rest you will be fine."


    "Thanks."


    Eva took the water and drink from it. She did feel a bit better. When they got to the Mansion, Lena and a worker helped carry Eva to her room.


    "You, go make her some ginger tea. It should help." Lena ordered the worked. She nodded and left to go make some. "You should go take a cool shower, it will help with the headache."


    Eva nodded. She walked herself to the bathroom, locked the door and turned on the shower. Lena was so shocked how easy Eva listened to her. She was hysterically laughing inside. Is this how Madam Yang also took advantage of Eva?


    Lena walked over to where she saw Eva hide the "item" that Madam Yang gave to Eva. She put it inside a drawer with her makeup. Lena opened it and looked through the items. She looked at each item until she found something that was out of place.


    She took it out. It looked like a bottle of medicine. Lena closed the drawer. She opened the bottle and took out one of the pills. It was white and has an "a" imprint on the pill. Is this¡­ an aphrodisiac drug? She closed the bottle and planned to only take that one pill with her.


    The bathroom door opened and Lena quickly shoved the whole bottle in her bag instead.


    "Oh, you''re done? Let me help you dry your hair."


    Eva sat down on her chair and Lena grabbed the hair dryer and started helping her dry her hair.


    "You once told me that you didn''t hate me. I am glad you don''t hate me now." Eva spoke.


    "I also gave you a warning. And I am glad that you took it to heart." Lena replied.


    "I am glad that we can let the past go."


    "Of course. Remember, you are my mei-mei now."


    Lena finished drying her hair and told Eva to lay on the bed.


    "You wait here, I will go see if your tea is done yet. You should drink that then go take a nap. Andy would be home by the time you wake up."


    "Okay." Eva replied.


    Eva closed her eyes to rest and Lena walked out. She closed the door and made sure no one was around. She went into her purse and pulled out an earphone and plugged it in her ear.


    "Ok Noah¡­ I got the item. Next, we need to get that phone. Tell me if a hallway is not clear."

 Chapter 92 - Keen eyes

    Lena knew her way around this mansion like the back of her mind. However, she needed Noah, who was watching the hallways using the cameras, to make sure she will not be found out. She has about 10 minutes before things get suspicious. She quickly climbed up the stairs.


    "The main hallway is clear." Noah spoke through the earphone. Lena gave him a thumbs up, wherever the camera was. She slowly but speedily walked to Madam Yang''s office which was at the end of the hall.


    She took out a pair for small gloves, put them on and tried to see if the door was locked. As suspected, it was locked. Lena pulled out another tool. It was a door picking needle. James gave it to her.


    "Now just do it as we taught you." Noah spoke to her. Lena nodded. She poked in the long needly first and kept poking and twisting it until she heard a click. "Great job."


    Lena walked in and silently closed the door. She was finally in. She walked quickly to the trash, hoping that it has not been cleaned yet. Madam Yang did not like her room to be cleaned a lot and ask it to be cleaned on a case by case basis.


    The gods were blessing Lena with good luck today, the cracked phone was still there. She picked it up, broke the phone and took out the sim card. She put the phone back in the trash and covered it with the other trash.


    She locked the door and closed it. She made sure it was still locked. Lena gracefully walked down to the first floor.


    "You should hurry so you can meet up with the worker." Noah hinted.


    Lena quietly went down the stairs and interacted with the worker. "I was just looking for you." Lena spoke. "I can take this to Eva."


    Lena went back to the room with the ginger tea. "I got you your tea. Drink it while it is still warm." Lena handed her the drink. "You seem better now so I am going to leave."


    Eva nodded and Lena left the room. She walked down the hallway happily but suddenly someone grabbed her from behind. Lena was about to scream but the hand covered her mouth. She bit the hand and turned around to poke the man with her doorknob picking needle.


    She stopped and looked at the man. "Keso?"


    "Shhhh¡­" He picked up Lena who silently yelped. He draped her over his shoulders. He took her to a room and climbed out a window with Lena on his shoulders still. Lena could tell that they were exiting out the back. She did not dare make a sound. If Keso was here¡­ that means¡­ her teacher found out what she was up to.


    Keso gently let Lena onto the ground when they reach the car that was parked, hidden in the back. Keso opened the door and Lena did not need to glance to know that Kris was inside. Lena resistantly got inside. She closed the door herself. She took off her earphone and stuff it back into her purse.


    "How did you know I was up to something?" Lena started the conversation after a while when Kris has not said a word.


    "Since you put something in her drink." He responded.


    "You have a really keen eye¡­"


    "You would need one if you wish to survive and spot your enemy''s every move."


    "So¡­ do you want to know what I found out?"


    "No. You can tell me about it when you figure it out yourself."


    "Ah? Then why did you even come to pick me up if you were not curious about what I was doing?" Lena perked herself from her seat and stared at Kris.


    "To make sure that everything was alright."


    "Did you worry about me?" Lena asked.


    "No. This is your first time and you are sure to fail at some point if you are too overconfident."


    "That is called worrying, you know?"


    Kris turned away and looked out the window. Lena noticed that James was following them right behind, so at least she knew she did not just leave him. The rest of the ride was quiet. James followed them until they reached the apartment building. Lena thanked Keso for the drive and waved at James to show him that she was fine.


    The day has not turned dark yet. Lena walked in with Kris but she stopped at her elevator while he continued on. She watched him while she waited for her elevator. He got into his first and after a minute, her elevator door opened.


    Lena entered the elevator and pressed her floor number, 56. It usually takes a few minutes before it arrived. When she got into her home, she tossed her purse into her bed and changed out of her dress. She was now wearing a tank and some shorts.


    She opened her purse and took out the medicine bottle and sim card. She placed the sim card on her desk and brought the medicine bottle back to her in the kitchen. There was a small cabinet in the kitchen where she put her medicine.


    But what she needed was a small zip bag to put one of the pills in to send it to the lab to confirm what it was. She placed the medicine bottle on the counter and opened it. She took one pill out and looked at it.


    Just then, her doorbell rung. She placed the pill on the counter and went to see who it was. She looked at the monitor and it was Kris outside her door. He looked sick.


    "Did you forget something?" Lena opened the door slightly and poked her head out.


    "Do you have any headache medicine?" Kris wondered. He slightly tilted his head and touched his the side of his forehead.


    "You don''t have that in your luxurious penthouse?"


    Kris stared at her like having medicine was supposed to be a normal thing. Lena shook her head. If this man does not have medicine in his home, then she wondered what other things he did not have.


    "You''re banned from entering my home." Lena clarified.


    "Are you that greedy? I asked for medicine, not dinner." Kris retorted back.


    "Fine¡­."


    Lena let Kris in and directed him to sit on the sofa while she goes get him the medicine. She went to the medicine cabinet and looked for the aspirin. She found it lurking in the back behind her vitamins. She took it out and was about to open it when her phone in her room started ringing. She ignored it and continue to open the medicine bottle.


    The ring stopped and it rang again. She was having a little difficulty opening the bottle. She put it down and went to answer her phone instead. Second time calling usually mean something important.


    She walked past Kris before heading to her room. She glanced at him and he looked quite in pain. "Gotta answer the phone, might be an emergency. The medicine is over there." She pointed to the kitchen. "I already took it out. Glasses are up in the cabinets."

 Chapter 93 - Number one or number two

    Kris stood up and nodded. Lena went to her room to answer the phone. It was her father.


    "Dad?"


    "Are you still at the party?"


    "No, I am already home."


    "Did Elder Zhao like the gifts?"


    "He did. How is grandpa?"


    "He is fine. Your grandma is just overreacting. You should come to visit again longer next time."


    "I''ll be sure too."


    "Don''t stay up late just because you are not working for the next few days. And make sure you eat well."


    "Yeah."


    "And don''t you dare have boys over."


    Lena laughed. "I wouldn''t dare to."


    Lena hung up and she walked to out to see Kris peacefully sitting on her sofa. His eyes were closed. He was probably letting the medicine kick in before he leaves. Lena went to grab her laptop and the sim card. She also brought out a piece of device that James told her will read the sim card. She put them all on the living room table and sat on the ground.


    "Are you still alive?" She whispered.


    Kris opened his eyes. He stared at her sitting on the ground and her workplace set up in the living area. "What are you doing?"


    Lena held up the sim card. "Tracing the caller ID she called. My guts feelings are telling me it is something important."


    "And because of your gut feelings, you sneaked into the room to just steal that?"


    Lena nodded. She put the sim card into the device and connected the device to her laptop via USB. After a few seconds, a browser popped out. She scrolled until she found the latest number that Madam Yang received or called from.


    Kris shifted closer to see what she was doing. After getting the number, Lena logged into one of Gary''s programmed system to trace caller ID. She input the number in and hit enter. The number is then scanned to match a location or person. This was going to take awhile. Lena walked up and went to get a drink of water.


    She noticed that Kris did not put away the medicine bottle. She grabbed that and put it back on the cabinet. She grabbed a glass cup out and took a drink. Lena then remembered that she had still to put the unknown pills in a small zip bag. She went to get it and noticed that it was different.


    The medicine bottle was closed and the pill she took out was not on the counter anymore. Then a thought struck Lena. Lena grabbed the bottle and stared at Kris from afar.


    ''It couldn''t be¡­ he did not just¡­'' Lena walked to him. "Kris?"


    "Hmm?" He looked up to her. Lena tried to see if he looked different. The only thing she noticed was that he did not look so sick.


    "What medicine did you take?"


    "The one you said that you took out." Kris was confused.


    "Yeah, but where?" Lena told Kris to follow her. She pointed him to location number one and location number two. "Which one."


    "The second one."


    Lena slammed the medicine bottle on the counter and pointed a finger at him. "This is why you are banned from my home! You are cursed! Do you not read before taking something?? Pfft¡­ so much for your keen eyes."


    Kris picked up the bottle of the assumed medicine he took. The bottle had nothing on it. He opened the bottle and took out a white pill. One side has an A on it and the other had a heart imprinted on it. Somehow, it looked familiar to him. "What is this?"


    "I don''t know¡­" Lena shrugged.


    Lena left him. She grabbed her cellphone from the living room table and went to her room. She locked the door.


    "Hey! What are you doing?" Kris called outside the door.


    "I am calling Collin. I am locking myself in here so you don''t attack me."


    "What did you think I took? An aphrodisiac drug?"


    "That''s what I would assume."


    "Lena, that kind of stuff doesn''t work for me." Kris laughed.


    "I don''t believe you."


    "Open the door. Look, I am perfectly fine. If the drug was an aphrodisiac drug, it would be in effect now."


    Lena slightly opened the door but she had her electric pen hidden behind her back. The was open just so one of her eyes could take a look at Kris. He was still wearing his navy suit from this morning.


    "Are you feeling hot?" Lena asked.


    "No."


    Lena opened the door completely and stared at Kris. He did look absolutely fine. His face was not red nor was he sweating. "Why does that kind of stuff doesn''t work on you?"


    "A person who can''t feel love won''t have the desire to love."


    "Does this have to do with your...condition?"


    Kris turned back and walked to the sofa. He sat down and did not reply. Lena walked over and sat on the floor in front of her laptop.


    "You know¡­ you always ignore me whenever I ask about that. You still haven''t explained much from last time too. I know that you won''t talk about it." Lena pointed out.


    Kris looked at her. Lena was sitting crisscrossed on the carpet. She was wearing a sky blue tank top and a nice cotton short. Her hair was still down. "I don''t trust you enough." He answered.


    This time, Lena looked at him. "Well, I trust you."


    Kris let out a small chuckle. "As your teacher, I will tell you not to trust people too easily."


    "As your student, I want to trust you." Lena smiled. "I will be the first one to trust you then, between us."


    She stared back at the laptop screen, and it was still running the phone number in the database. Lena took out her sketch pad and start sketching. Every so often, she would glance at Kris to see what he was doing.


    ''Is he not going to leave yet? Will I have to feed him dinner¡­ I am hungry.'' Lena was thinking if she should cook now or wait for Kris to leave.


    She put down her sketchpad. "Are you going to leave soon?"


    Kris opened his eyes again. "Yeah¡­ Can I use your bathroom first?"


    "Number one or number two?" Lena asked. It was important!


    Kris rolled his eyes. He got up and head to the bathroom.


    ''Damn him! He better not number two¡­ I am cooking soon!'' Lena went back to sketching. Lena got her outline done. She glanced up from her work and Kris was not on the sofa. Lena got up and looked out to see if he had left yet. His shoes were still in the hallway.


    Lena went to the bathroom. She tried the door and it was locked. "Kris?"


    No response. She tried to call him again. Lena pounded on the door. "Are you okay? Say something." She put her ear on the door. She heard a slight groan.


    ''Ugh!'' She went to her room to grab the bathroom key. "Hang on, I am opening the door. You better have your pants on!" The door opened and Lena saw Kris groaning on the floor.

 Chapter 94 - Embrace all of that

    Lena saw that his outer suit jacket was taken off and he had unbuttoned a bit of his shirt. He must have washed his face, but the rest of his body was sweating.


    Lena was going to go close to him to check on him, but she backed off. "Wait here, I am going to call Collin." She knew that she should not call the emergency number. She closed the door, grabbed the chair from her room and put it on the door and sat on it. She dialed Collin''s number.


    "C''mon.. Pick up¡­ pick up.." Lena was anxious.


    "Hello?"


    "Oh my, thank the lord! Collin, you have to come quick. Something is wrong with Kris. I locked him my bathroom."


    "What?"


    "Just come quick. He''s not feeling too good, make sure you bring Keso too please."


    "I am coming right now."


    Collin was actually at the bar with Tye. They were the older ones of the group and they often have drinks on Fridays. He pulled Tye out of the bar and put the phone on speaker. "Tell me what happened."


    "I¡­ um. He had a headache and he took the wrong medicine. I think it was an aphrodisiac drug."


    "Those doesn''t work on him." Collin replied.


    "That''s what he said, but trust me.. He''s showing the signs."


    "What do the pills look like?" Tye asked this time. Lena did not know who the voice was. "Collin''s driving." Tye spoke after Lena did not reply.


    "Uh.. hold on." Lena got off her chair and went to grab the bottle. She went into her room and locked the door. "Umm¡­" Lena opened the bottle and took out a pill. "It''s white¡­ it as an A on one side and a heart on the other side."


    "I have not seen a medicine like that¡­ hmmm. What symptoms did he have?"


    "He was sweating badly. He kept groaning. He was the floor, I did not dare touch him."


    "Stay in a locked place¡­ and if you need to, beat the crap out of him. We are a bit out but Keso will be there in a few minutes."


    "O--- AH" Lena dropped the phone. Kris came up from behind, grabbed her by the waist and tossed her to the bed.


    "I should not feel like this." Kris looked at Lena. "Why do I desire you¡­" He went closer to her. "You should have not let your hair down."


    Kris leaned in and Lena closed her eyes. After a few seconds, nothing happened. She thought that he was going to kiss her. She opened her eyes and saw him just playing with her hair.


    Kris moved behind her and let her sit between his legs. He hugged her from behind. Lena kept moving from the uncomfortableness. He tightened his hold on her.


    "Don''t move¡­ can you just sit still for a bit? Just till they come?" Kris placed his head on her back and closed his eyes. He was trying really hard not to do more than this.


    "Ok¡­ but I get to ride your elevator next time." Lena compromised. She was unsure of her decision, but she felt that Kris was not sweating nor heating up when he grabbed her. She told him that she would trust him, so she will now too.


    Kris chuckled. "Deal."


    He didn''t know what took over him¡­ but the moment he was on the floor and seeing her by the door just watching him, he wanted to embrace her. He remembered her sparkling eyes and her cute pink lips smiling at him. He wanted to embrace all of that.


    This was the first time in a long time that he had successfully hugged someone. He relaxed on her back and breathe in her sweet scent. It was calming. He kept a tight hold on her. Somewhere deep inside him, he was scared that once he let go, he''ll never experience this again.


    "Is this how it feels to hug someone?" He asked.


    Lena felt her heart soften again. Why was she always so considerate of Kris¡­ and each time it is because he was hugging her. She remembered what he said before. "A person who can''t feel love won''t have the desire to love."


    She must have been tolerant of him because she can relate somewhat to him. Not to the same level, but to some extent. Everyone is not always as they are seen out in the public. She too puts on a mask to survive. Knowing from how much and strong the Li family was, Kris must have put on a heavier mask.


    "What are you feeling?" Lena questioned.


    "Good."


    "Don''t start calling me mom now¡­"


    "Should I call you Lena then?" Kris joked.


    "Yes, you should."


    "We are not that close."


    "Why is it so hard for you to make friends?"


    "I have more friends than you."


    Oooff. Lena took that blow harshly. "Then you should be my friend then. I need more of ''em. I have been so nice to you and all you have done to me is¡­." Lena took a moment to think. "Now that we are even... You had done nothing actually."


    Kris smiled behind her and let her loose. He gently walked out of the bed and stood up. "They are here."


    "How can you tell?"


    Just then, there was a knock on the door. "This never happened, okay?" Kris left to go open the door.


    Lena laughed to herself and trailed behind Kris. The door opened and a man she never met before rushed to bro-hug Kris. Without warning, Tye suddenly jabbed a needle right in his neck.


    "What the hell?!" Kris pushed Tye.


    "Antidope."


    Lena could tell why Kris had the soft personality he has. Although he was thick-skinned and has gone through whatever hell he went through, everyone still treated him like a precious family member. The way Collin worked with him and how Keso protected him.


    Seeing them, Lena missed Gary. She wished that he was here to cheer her on too. Lena cleared her throat. "Hello, I am Lena Shen."


    "Ah! The famous Miss. Shen. I am Doctor Tye, but you can just call me Tye." Tye winked at her and extended a hand for Lena to shake. Before she could take it, Kris slapped Tye''s hand down.


    "We''re leaving." Kris spoke. "Thanks¡­ for today." He walked out first and Keso followed behind. Tye and Collin said goodbye to Lena then turned around too.


    "Wait." Lena went to her doorway closet and grabbed out a bag. "It''s your clothes, from last time. I laundry them already."


    Kris grabbed the bag from her hands.


    "And... you are really banned from my house from now on."


    Lena closed the door and slid down to the floor. ''Aiyaa¡­ why is my heart beating so fast.''


    She stood up and walked back to now finally cook something for her to eat. She could hear her stomach growling when she was with Kris. She hoped that he did not hear any of it.


    Lena walked past her work area but at the corner of her eyes, she saw that the computer had stopped running the phone number. She walked over and saw the name that popped up..


    Her heart stopped for a few seconds. "Bai Wentao¡­. Isn''t that the mayor of city A?"

 Chapter 95 - Big Conspiracy

    Lena wanted to sit down and search more but her stomach protested. Lena went back to the kitchen. She spent a good amount of time making herself a beef and shrimp dish with a side of leafy greens. It was a bad habit of hers when she was by herself, but she brought the food to her living room work area. As she ate, she was also browsing the internet for information on Bai Wentao.


    She ate her last piece of shrimp and settled her back on the sofa, still sitting on the floor. She tilted her head back on the seat and stretched her arms.


    The year that Madam Li had her accident, it was also the same year that Kris''s father was running for mayor. He withdrew from the election after his wife was in a coma. The Bai family also ran for Mayor that year, but it was Bai Wei, the older brother of Bai Wentao that ran. Bai Wei did not win mayor that year but Wang Yong did.


    The Li did suspect that Wang Yong might have been associated with the accident but there was no evidence or motives. However, what if it was the Bai family instead? Bai Wei became mayor after Wang Yong and Bai Wentao succeeded after him. If Lena recalled, Bai Wei only left the office to prepare for his running in the presidential election.


    Lena definitely felt a big conspiracy building up here. If her enemy has connections with the Bai Family, then they need to be extra cautious of Madam Li''s every move. Lena had never paid attention to these big players, but for sure, Kris will know more about them. She will tell him the results tomorrow.


    Today was a long and rough day already. She attended the birthday party this morning, played a spy in the afternoon, and babysat Kris, again, in the evening.


    Lena picked up her plates and went to wash them. She went and clean the bathroom in the hallway before going back to her room for a shower. As expected, Kris left a mess again. The sink and the floor were wet. Her rug was pulled up, probably from him struggling with the pain on the floor.


    She picked up the suit jacket, but this time just tossed it in the trash. He won''t miss it.


    Lena went back to her room and straight into her shower. She took off her clothes and enjoyed a nice long warm shower. When she got out, she was looking for her phone. She remembered it last when she called Collin.


    She spotted it on the floor by her bed. She picked it up and then remembered that she never really hung up the call on Collin when Kris tossed her over. Her eyes widened. They did have not heard their conversation¡­ did they?


    ----- Back to Kris


    Kris grabbed the bag from Lena and left. His three musketeers trailed behind him. He hit the elevator door button and it opened. They all entered the elevator. Although the elevator was spacious, with all four of them, it felt like being squeezed into a tiny room.


    "Why were you guys here so late?" Kris spoke.


    "What do you mean?! We got here as fast as we could!" Tye replied.


    Actually, Collin and Tye could have been here sooner but after hearing what Kris said, Tye forced Collin to drive the speed limit.


    "I am very. I had to go pick up the antidope hence my delay." Kye clarified his excuse.


    "How did you know where to get the antidope?


    "Do you remember the love pills that Hugh was working on?" Tye asked.


    Kris looked at Tye. No wonder the pills looked familiar to him, it was that stupid friend of his. "What is he doing now?"


    "Trying to figure out how the pills got out."


    The love pills were made only to be used for couples who have trouble with sex. Once the pill is consumed, it takes awhile for the body to react to it. The pill only triggers your sexual desire and initiate contact. After that first few minutes of satisfaction, the drug is gone.


    The drug is only made for people who are already in a relationship. So mostly after that first few minutes, they can continue the rest themselves without the effect of the drugs. Hence why it''s name, the Love Pill.


    However, during the development stages, they found out several side effects. First, the pill forces the body to produce hormones to trigger the mind''s secual behavoir. During this phase of production, the body will experience intense pain. Secondly, the effects can be spread by bodily fluids in the first hour of intake. That means that if one person kisses the other, the other person will get aroused too.


    They found out that the second person won''t experience the pain. So currently in the stages of researching, Hugh wants to know why the second person doesn''t experience pain and if that can be fixed into the person who takes the pill.


    The pill was unstable and in its early stages of research so it was not introduced into the market yet. The original idea was to not make this a date **** drug. The Love pill can only be digest with its whole pill form, not powdered or in aqueous form. But if it can spread like that, it would ruin it''s purpose of being called the Love pill.


    "So.. what''s in the bag?" Tye was curious. "You never told me you did anything else apart from waking up in the same bed as her. Did you get naked too?!"


    Kris slapped Tye on the back of his head. "Perverted doctor."


    The elevator door opened and they all stepped out. Tye touched the back of his head and looked at Collin. Collin just shrugged, not daring to say more about what happened in front of Kris.


    "You know¡­ I expected to arrive to both of you on top of each---"


    Kris smacked the back of his head one more time.

 Chapter 96 - Her Detective Work

    They all entered Kris''s penthouse but Kris made sure Tye was not allowed in. He did not need any more of his perverted thoughts contaminating Kris''s.


    Kris threw the bag on floor. "Make sure to hell Hugh to get his problems sorted out." Kris demanded.


    "Yes." Collin replied. "What are you going to do about the news scandal on the boy band?"


    "That was only to slow down the Yang company. We''ll blow it up later if needed. How is the mole?"


    "His performance is still good. He knows that we are constantly watching his every move, and he would not dare run away or tell on us." Kye spoke.


    "And that man?" Kris was referring to the mysterious man with a scar, the one who shot Lena and Gary.


    "We know he had not left the city nor has gone underground. My assumption is that he hiding in plain sight but someone with high security too."


    "Kris¡­ you should go rest. You just recovered from the drugs¡­ we can talk about this another day." Collin suggested.


    Kris nodded. He picked up the bag Lena gave him and headed to his bedroom. Collin and Kye left the penthouse. Tye was outside the door like a dog eagerly waiting for its master.


    "Done already?" Tye asked.


    "You should stop teasing Kris like that." Collin spoke.


    Tye draped his arm on Collin, ignoring Kye, as they walked to the elevator. "But you head it too! He asked her how it felt to be hugged! So they hugged!! I can''t even get the man to hug a pillow with a woman on it!"


    Kye was confused, as he was not there to hear the phone conversation. "Who did he hug?"


    Tye slapped Kye on the back. Kye''s head was a bit too tall for him to reach. "You''re as dumb as Kris, no wonder he made no improvements. Don''t you worry, let your big brother handle this."


    Collin and Kye did not like the way he said that. Tye''s way of things¡­ are too out of the world.


    -------


    It was a Saturday today and Lena had nothing planned for today. She could have slept in, but she woke early for some morning exercises. She jammed up her music and started with some light warmups.


    She would usually run on the treadmill but did not want her normal heavy routine today since her body was not 100% yet. Instead, today she worked on her arm and leg strengthening. Next week when she is in top-notch shape, she will start some heavy self-defense training with James.


    After her morning exercise, she took a quick shower before preparing a small breakfast. Lena did not have a big appetite this morning so she had a fruit salad and yogurt milk. After breakfast, she went to her room to grab her laptop and head to her art room.


    Lena''s art room was where she would work on her art. Lena had a natural talent for painting and sculpting. Since she moved here, she had not done anything except designed the room for future use. Lena thought that this would be a nice place for her work area. Lena placed a ginormous pinboard on the wall.


    She took out her crafts and started decorating the wall with her conspiracy.


    The main enemy target is Madam Yang. She is associated with the Bai family, Bai Wei and Bai Wentao. Working for her, she has Eva and Scarman. Lena did not know his name so she nicked him Scarman. For Madam Yang''s family, she has Andy as her older son and Gary as her younger son with an unknown man. Eva is engaged with Andy and Eva is colluding with Madam Yang.


    Now for the Li family. Mr. Li Jun was the father of Kris, who is now deceased for three years now. Madam Li was in a coma for 8 years¡­.


    Lena stopped and tried to do some math.


    Kris was 5 when the accident happened and 13 when his mother woke up again. He was 23 when his father died and now he was 26.


    His condition could only be that severe if it happened during his childhood¡­ most likely during the years that his mother was comatose. Lena put up an unknown woman next to Li Jun. She remembered that there were rumors of Li Jun having a mistress while his wife was in a coma. There were rumors that Kris was not Madam Li''s child too.


    The first one seems plausible, but Lena did not believe the second one. The way Kris and Madam Li acted towards each other, they are true mother and son.


    And the last one was Lena. She put herself off to the side for now, next to Gary. To completely understand this theory, Lena needed to fill in some information.


    Who is Gary''s father? How is Madam Yang associated with the Bai Family? And what does this have to do with Madam Li''s accident? Political, money, power, or personal.


    Why did Madam keep Eva alive? Who is Scarman? Does this rumored mistress exist?


    Lena stepped back and looked at her amazing piece of detective work. She closed her eyes. Each time she finds something, it unlocks a longer trail to unknown questions.


    Lena phone rang and she looked at the caller ID. It was from an unknown number. Lena was unsure if she should answer it or not. She let it ring longer before picking it up.


    "Hello." She answered.


    "Miss. Shen?" A familiar voice asked.


    "Who''s this?"


    "It''s me, Doctor Tye. We met yesterday?"


    "Ah.. yes, I remember you, Doctor Tye." Lena wondered how this man even got her phone number. Did Kris give him her number? Her number should not be easily given to his buddies¡­.


    "Please, please.. Just Tye is fine. Can I call you Lena too?"


    "We are not that close."


    "Oh¡­" Tye felt heartbroken, especially how she was using a line Kris said to her. "Then.. Miss. Shen, are you free today?"


    "I am not free." Lena lied. This guy was creeping her out a bit.


    "Not even free to talk about Kris''s condition?" Tye taunted her. He knew that she must be somewhat curious about that.


    "Doctor Tye¡­ I am assuming you are Kris''s doctor."


    "Yes I am¡­ his doctor for everything!" Tye was proud to say that.


    "Would that not be breaking your doctor to patient privacy information?" Lena inquired.


    "Ahahhahha." Tye burst into a small laugh. Lena was indeed a smart and thoughtful woman. "Then how about Gary?"


    Lena was curious not. She had not had news about him for a while. She wanted to ask Kris if she could go visit him tomorrow but since the event of last night, Lena felt a bit uncomfortable. She regretted giving him the clothes back yesterday. Would he see that she laundry his underwear too? Ugh¡­embarrassing.


    "Didn''t Kris tell you? I am also the Doctor overtaking the care for Mr. Chen. Unless you are saying I can''t tell you about Gary too because that breaks doctor and patient privacy."


    "Doctor Tye¡­ I am Gary''s emergency contact though. I have full rights for his information as per his medical paperwork states so."


    "Can I not taunt Miss. Shen to come out with me at all today? I will pay for the food¡­." Tye tried one more time.


    "Well! Why did you not start with that first? Free food is always worth my time." Lena smiled. She was actually just more curious about Gary''s condition. And maybe, she''ll get some other stuff out from Tye.


    "Great! I''ll come to pick you up at noon?"


    "That works."


    Lena hung up and looked at the clock. She has about 1 hour to prepare. That should be enough for her to get ready.


    She called James and told him that she will be going out today. She is meeting with a friend and James should just stay close and incognito.

 Chapter 97 - Four

    Lena pulled down a top board that covered her detective artwork. She went back to her room to change. She put on a laced maroon skater dress that was up to her knee. She only put on a pair of matching earrings and her usual friendship bracelet. She slipped on a nice pair of heels and chose a black over the shoulder Louis Vuitton purse.


    She put some darker makeup, freshening up her eyes and eyeliner with some mascara. Her cheeks were pink flush with just the perfect amount of highlights. She finished her looks with a red velvet matte lipstick.


    If she was going to go out today and not have to wear something professional, she should look pretty. Her wardrobes were full of dresses that she kept buying but never had much time to wear them now.


    She put her usual items on her Louis Vuitton purse and head out. Tye already texted her that he outside.


    Lena let her long hair loose today. She clipped her front bangs with a cute black bow hair clip. Tye was already out of the car waiting for her. She looked up from his phone when he saw her coming out.


    "Ah.. Miss. Shen. You''re pretty today."


    "Thank you." Lena greeted the man.


    He opened the passenger door for her and went to his seat. Tye drove his BMW convertible car. He already popped the hood out. Lena was thankful she didn''t put any effort to do her hair today. It was also a warm and pretty day to ride such a car like this.


    Tye chose an amazing seafood restaurant by the waterfront. With the cool breeze, it was suitable for the occasion. They were settled to a table outside. Lena ordered a refreshing lemon lobster dish while Tye had a salad. Lena looked out at the waves as they waited for their order.


    "I am very glad that Miss. Shen came out with me today." Tye smiled.


    "Why did you want to meet me so eagerly?" Lena asked.


    "Ahahaha¡­ Kris always talk about you. As his therapist, I just really want to see the woman who had made me rich these past few weeks."


    "I made you rich?"


    "Of course. I have been treating Kris for 8 years now. In the past year, I only had visited him once, but now I feel like I am living with him." Tye laughed. "Let me ask you, how many times have you physically touched the man?"


    Lena took a drink from her glass of water. She recalled the times that she had touch Kris.


    "Four."


    The first time was her kissing him. The second time was the bite battle. The third time was when he choked her and then the fourth was when he took the medicine.


    Tye eyeballed Lena. ''So she does not know about the time he carried her out¡­ Interesting.''


    "Four times¡­ and you are the only person who had not broken a single bone. Amazing."


    Lena smiled. "I don''t know if that if that is supposed to be a positive or negative thing."


    "I actually brought Miss. Shen here because I want to ask you for a favor."


    "A favor?"


    "I know that I am neither close to Miss. Shen to be asking favors already. But from the short time that I have seen you and from what I have heard¡­ I have no doubt that you are a strong-hearted and kind woman. You are also those very few who knows how to target Kris''s weakness and is still alive."


    Lena smiled at the comment. It''s not a surprise to her that she is still alive from all the naggin she had done to Kris. She''ll never hit a card without knowing who her enemy is.


    "I applaud you for that." Tye continued. "I truly do. I have never seen any woman, apart from Madam Li who had such tolerant for Kris. Your mere influence for Kris has¡­ how do I say this¡­ made him better. I call myself a genius but in the mere amount of time he had interacted with you, he had made improvements more than I had done for him in all of our 8 years together. So, I want to ask if you are willing to be an active part of his treatment."


    Lena had sat silently while listening to Tye''s explanation and request. She felt the soft part of her urging toward her to be a good Samaritan but her stubborn brain was telling her the free work was not worth her time.


    "It is a lie to say that I don''t fear him." Lena finally spoke.


    "Ahahhaha¡­ I still fear him too!"


    "It''s just that¡­" Lena tried to sound as nice as she could. "I don''t want to push myself to him more than I had. I am already in a dangerzone and my only insurance is Madam Li. If someday I am no longer in good terms with the Madam, what then? I know myself that I cannot keep relying on others for my own security. However, I am not going to knock his walls. He should be the one to allow me in or not."


    "So¡­ If Kris asked you¡­ you would accept it?"


    "Well of course it would not be that simple. He would also have to guarantee my safety. Not my safety from others¡­ but my safety from him." Lena laughed.


    "Miss. Shen, you are truly an amazing woman. If I didn''t prefer men, I would already kidnapped you away."


    Their food finally arrived. They both slowly enjoy the lunch and the nice weather. Lena could feel the cool breeze from the waterfront.


    "Hah¡­ It''s so nice to always be working with handsome man. Haha.. especially that friend of yours¡­ his name.. Ah Gary. Bathing him is most fun!"


    Lena choked on her lobster. She coughed and took a big gulp from her water. "Bathing?" She looked at Tye in shock.


    "Yes. Even in his state, we bath him." Tye smiled.


    "You¡­ um.. Take care of Gary personally?"


    "Absolutely! When Kris said I should care for him¡­ I care for him with my utmost service. I can never deny such handsome patient on my table."


    "Hah¡­" Lena out a weak laugh. "How is he anyways? I wanted to go see him."


    "He''s doing great! Don''t you worry. I also give him body exercise so it''s easier for him when he wakes up." Tye replied. He did not want to tell Lena that there are still no brain activity from Gary''s brain.

 Chapter 98 - Agato Land

    They both finished their lunch. Lena had a great time talking to Tye and about what he does as a doctor. He talked a lot about his care for Gary too. Lena was somewhat¡­ concerned about it. Tye walked Lena out afterward. She made an excuse to him that she had things later so James was picking her up. In that case, she would not need Tye to send her back home.


    "Glad you are getting pick up.. Ahahaa.. I have to leave too! It''s bath day for Gary." Tye smiled happily and head off first.


    Lena''s heart stopped and she continued to stare at Tye as he drove away. James called her names a few times before she snapped out of her daze. She quickly got into the car. Lena pulled out her phone and texted Collin that she had an emergency and needed to talk to Kris right away.


    Collin said that Kris was at the company, he had a few things that needed to be done today. Collin told her that he can pick her from the front entrance and take her to see Kris.


    "Take me to the Li company!" Lena bit her thumbnail nervously. ''Don''t worry Gary, I''ll save you!''


    James head to straight to the Li company without asking any questions. It took them about 25 minutes to get there with traffic from the city too. He pulled the car up front and Collin was already outside waiting.


    Collin greeted them. Lena smiled back and followed him in. It was a weekend and usually, the building was locked. There was no one working in the building at all. Collin led them straight to the VIP elevator.


    Colling pressed an elevator button. It was not the top floor but a button with a star on it. "Hold on tight."


    Lena was confused but then she felt the elevator do down. She held to the stainless holding rail. The elevator stopped and went backward vertically.


    "Where are we going?" Lena asked.


    The elevator came to a full stop and opened. Collin got out first, then Lena followed. She stared at the room she entered. It was like they were in a top-secret headquarters. The room had several large screens and a bunch of computers. There were a few people here, working on their own things.


    They glanced at Lena and James, people they had never seen before. They tried not to make it obvious with their stares, but Lena spotted them. She smiled sweetly at them.


    "This way." Collin led Lena to a large room with windows. However, the windows were tinted so dark, she could not see what was inside. "He''s just inside."


    "Ok." Lena opened the large doors. James stood outside and waited for her.


    As she entered, Kris glanced up from his tablet but went back to focus on the information on it. "What was it that was life and death? You look pretty--" Alive¡­ Kris was about to finish his sentence.


    However, Lena walked over with sonic speed and slammed her two arms on his desk, interrupting his sentence.. "I want someone else to take care of Gary."


    Kris looked up at Lena. It was not her strong-willed face that caught his attention but her long beautiful hair. He cleared his throat and blinked. "Seems like you talked with Tye."


    "I--"


    "Didn''t you say you want Gary to be in the best care?"


    "I-- He can treat Gary without giving him personal baths!"


    "But he''s a doctor, that''s part of his job."


    "You---" Lena pointed her finger at him and knitted her brows. "How would you feel if you were in a coma and a girl was giving you baths."


    Kris pushed his back to his chair and crossed his arms. "Is this your life and death situation? If this is it, you may leave."


    Lena put down her fingers and relaxed herself. "Then¡­ can you have at least a pretty nurse to take care of him? At least he''ll wake up with someone pretty next to him."


    "You''re ridiculous." Kris pushed his phone to call for Collin. "You can bring Miss. Shen out now."


    "Wait.. I am not done." Lena sat down on the chair across from Kris''s desk.


    "Give us a few more minutes." Kris removed his hand from the call button. He pushed his back on his chair and waited for what other things Lena had to say. Having another good look at her, he noticed she was quite dressed up today. She looked very much like a woman¡­ Doesn''t she look like that too much lately?


    "The number¡­ it got a result." Lena spoke, interrupting Kris''s thoughts again. "It belongs to Mayor Bai."


    Lena could feel Kris was thinking about something else again. She doesn''t know if it was him not paying attention or the name made him though of something. Lena felt the strong cold breeze coming from Kris although his face remained neutral.


    "Follow me." Kris stood up and went to the door. Lena followed him out.


    Kris walked out of the room. Collin and James who were outside also followed them. Kris walked down a few steps to enter the big screen room. A few people greeted Kris.


    "Pull up the Agato Land Deal." Kris poke. A young man quickly typed on his desktop and Lena turned her head to the big screen. There were a few pictures up on the screen.


    "Agato Land Deal? Are you talking about the ongoing debate on what to use the land near Sky Heights District Mall?"


    "You know about that?" Kris glanced at Lena, who was focused on the screen, reading the information in front of her. "Mayor Bai wants the land to develop a low-income housing apartment in the city for people. Currently, the land in on auction and every major company wants that prime land."


    "Andy wanted this land." Lena thought back to the time Andy argued with Madam Yang. Madam Yang wanted Andy to back off the land, saying that it was not needed for the Yang company expansion. However, Andy told her that she was not a businesswoman and losing this land would be a loss for the Yang company.


    "He did. The Yang company just recently dropped its bid. Only five major companies are still bidding now. This would confirm the relationship between the Yang and the Bai family. Mayor Bai is his own charity money to bid for the land." Kris explained. He nodded to the young man and he opened up a new document.


    "Mayor Bai is probably going to re-run for mayor the following term. Apart from his recent successful healthcare reform, this will definitely boost his powers."


    Lena kept her eyes glued on the screen. She had one of her gut feelings again. "Can you put up a map of the location?"


    The young man quickly pulled up a satellite map of the Agato Land. Lena walked close to the screen and bit her thumbnail again. It has become a bad habit of hers¡­ "Zoom out a bit please?"


    "What do you see?" Kris was curious.


    The location was near the sea. As Lena recalled, in both worlds, the coat was hit with heavy flooding 5 years ago. Most of the area was rebuilt but some areas were still empty and sold for redevelopment. In her past world, this area would be where the school was located. It was newly built but just about before Lena transmigrated here, it was all over the news about the school.


    The land was a slowly sinking ground. Many of the water from the flood were collected in a water well but as it got warmer, the water flow back to the ocean, eroding the soil below and slowly sinking it. Half of the school collapsed. Apart from that, they later found out that the soil had lots of lead too. Many students were sick but the health department thought that the lead poisoning was from home, not the school.


    "Are you one of the bidders?" Lena finally took her eyes off the screen and faced Kris.


    Her hair swung a bit and Kris could see her beautiful eyes staring at him. "Of course."


    "Drop out of the bidding."

 Chapter 99 - Smartest one here

    "Why?" Kris asked.


    "Uh.." Lena could not exactly give the reason about her situation that made her here. "Gut feeling."


    Kris was weary of her answer. "This is the most prime land at the moment. You would have to give me more than a gut feeling reason to drop the bid. Last time you had a gut feeling, you went sneaking around."


    "And I was right! I will be right about this too! You have to trust me about this. Even just a little."


    Kris was not budging at all. Lena should have known. Kris was not like Ming Zhao who was more kind. Kris was a full pledge business tycoon. She went to the front and grab a laser pointer.


    "Look here." She pointed the laser to the map, showing the river. "5 years ago, there was a big flood. Weaker buildings got wiped or damaged heavily, this area included. You ever wonder why this "prime land" was not sold until now? There is definitely something wrong with it."


    Kris followed Lena''s explanation and he was understanding where she was going for. "The test results for the soil came back clear."


    Lena paused. Maybe she was wrong? There could be lead in her world but not here. It was possible. But the water well should be a natural effect, which could happen regardless. "Have you done your own testing?"


    "Companies cannot do their own testing. They can ask for another testing done though."


    "Then ask for another one to be done. I bet they will stall it. And I know you have connections to make sure the next testing be completed properly. This won''t do anything bad on your side of business. It would just make you look extra cautious and serious about the land deal. The auction won''t end until two more weeks."


    "I can agree with that." Kris spoke. "Collin."


    "Yes. I will make sure to have a second testing request by Monday."


    "There''s another thing too." Lena clarified.


    Everyone gave her full attention again. The workers were surprised to see a woman here and even more when Kris was so casual with her. They knew she was Lena Shen and there were rumors but as workers, they were forbidden to ever gossip about such things. Kris had strict work environment rules.


    Lena pointed her laser back to the screen. "Even if the soil testing come back clear¡­ the land itself is unstable. It has only stood this long because there is no structure currently on top of it. If you pull up satellite images of the earth land formation for the past 5 years, you will see that the Agata land is slowly sinking. If you build something on top of it, it will surely break a few years afterward."


    "How do you even know about this stuff?" Kris was amazed. Last time Lena had Gary with her so most of her information must have come from him. But with him in a coma, Lena still had many more surprises.


    "What kind of question is that." Lena shrugged it out. "It''s basic science plus logic."


    "You are saying that in a room full of specialists, they missed the most basic science and logic about this land?"


    Everyone put their heads down. They knew that if they fail to see something, someone will definitely get removed from the team. It was already very hard to enter the Li Company and to be part of Kris''s private team was even harder. Lena could see that the workers were feeling tense.


    "What do you mean? You are the smartest one here and you missed that."


    "Heh.." Kris smiled. She and her snarky comments. "Jason¡­ hack into Hugh''s database and confirm the topography."


    ''Ah¡­ so his name was Jason. He has a baby face like Gary!'' Lena smiled at the young man who shyly got back to his work.


    "Ah!" Lena screeched. Kris flicked her forehead.


    "This is my workplace, not a place for you to check out men." Kris scolded.


    Everyone was shocked yet again. Did Kris just¡­. Touch her? Collin''s mouth dropped a bit but he quickly closed it. Even if it was just a flinch, Kris initiated the contact. He must go and tell Tye about this!


    This morning, Tye texted Collin at 4 a.m. that he was going to have a date with Lena. Collin told Kris but Kris said it was nothing to worry about. Tye later texted Collin that Lena will be coming to visit Kris and soon after the text, Lena did text him.


    Collin did not know what Tye did to Lena but he knew that Tye was up to his no good deeds again¡­ or are they good this time?


    Lena touched her forehead where Kris flicked at her. "You''re so aggressive! First of all, I am a beautiful single woman, I can check out any man I want to. And you should be more self-conscious if I were to check out any man¡­ wouldn''t it be you? I already admitted before that you were the most handsome man.. Geez."


    Lena was not happy that she got flinched at. She continued to rub the spot and casually walk past Kris. She climbed up the stairs to go back to his office room.


    Kris was a bit stunned at the comment. ''The most handsome man?'' His heart warmed up a bit. He cleared his throat. "Get back to work!" He climbed up the small steps and followed Lena back to his office.


    He entered his office to see Lena sitting down on the same chair before. She was texting on the phone.


    "Are you not going to leave yet?"


    She looked up at him. But there was something about her look that made him feel hesitant. "Are we not going to discuss more on Mayor Bai?"


    "You should not get yourself involved with him. He may be mayor but he is dangerous, the entire Bai family is. You have only entered the business world, you shouldn''t mess with politics yet."


    "Very well then, Teacher. My enemy is Madam Yang, my focus should be on her."


    Kris sat on his chair while Lena stood up. She walked back to the door but only look out the windows. The windows were a one-way window. She could see the workers all doing their work, but sometimes glancing at the office.


    "Should I have not come to visit you personally at your office?" Lena wondered.


    "Are you concerned about rumors?" He looked at Lena. Her delicate dress was fitted perfectly on her. He still kept staring at her long hair. He does not know why that particular thing about her kept making him feel... weird. "You won''t need to be, they know my rules."

 Chapter 100 - Gossip

    Lena looked back at Kris. He seemed so confident about his workers. Lena would not want to work with such a strict boss, but the no gossip rule was nice. SHe would need to make sure her workers ensure her privacy too.


    "Who''s Hugh? Doctor Tye mentioned him a few times too¡­ Kept saying something like we are similar. Hugh''s a girl?" Lena changed the topic.


    "No. He''s a man."


    A man? Lena was confused about how she can be so similar to a man. Maybe the man is girly? Or was she manly?!


    She looked down at herself. No... she was pretty and looked pretty. No way she is manly. It can be something else about both of them. "Am I going to meet him sometime?"


    "No."


    "Ok, then. Can I go visit Gary?"


    "No."


    Lena walked furiously toward him. "What?! You can''t keep me away from him¡­You said ---"


    "If you want to visit him, you''ll need to do something for me."


    Lena''s eyes widened. Of course, it was too easy when Kris said he can take care of Gary. He was using Gary as a hostage now, the same way she was using Madam Li. "I am a nice person¡­ you can just kindly ask me. You know? Like how I am kindly asking you to go see my friend?"


    "My mom''s birthday is coming up. Since you are close to her, find out what she wants."


    "That''s it?" Lena thought that the man was going to ask her to do something impossible. "What did you give her last year?"


    "A pure breed dog¡­ But I did not know she was allergic to dogs. She had always said she wanted company and since I cannot give her kids, I gave her a dog."


    "AHahahaha." Lena laughed uncontrollably and placed one hand on the desk and the other on her stomach. "A dog¡­. Ahahah.. You''re the dog!"


    "I guess you are not serious with visiting Gary."


    Lena stopped laughing and cleared her throat. "Don''t you worry, I am a professional. I can get you your answer in 24 hours so you better prepare for my visit soon."


    Lena grabbed her purse from the chair she sat on. "Are you going to send me out? I have not gotten back to you for the flick. We must always be equal." She demanded.


    Kris reluctantly got out of his chair to walk her out. As they walk side by side, Lena continued to sense the stares from the workers. "Are you sure they don''t gossip?"


    "I am sure of it." Kris stressed.


    He walked her just to the hallway. It was only a few feet to the elevator from here. James went to the elevator first and was holding the door. Lena look at the elevator then back to Kris and smiled. Kris saw her eyes sparkled for a bit.


    "So¡­ I will see you tomorrow at your place then?" She spoke loudly.


    "What?" Kris replied in a soft voice. Lena ignored that and kept her smile. She went to her bag and pulled out a handkerchief. She handed it to Kris who was confused but took it.


    "I''ll miss you." She spoke again in her loud voice. She had heels on today, but she still tiptoed a bit and quickly gave Kris a peck on his left cheek.


    Before he could react, she was already running away, waving her hand. "Bye babe!"


    Kris eyes grew wide. No wonder that damn woman gave him a handkerchief and that stupid sly smile of hers. He should have known she was up to something bad. He saw her mouthed "Gossip" right before the elevator closed.


    He quickly wiped his cheeks and tossed the handkerchief to Collin, who stood silently in his spot.


    "Tsk.." Kris sneered but went back to his office and slammed the door shut.


    Everyone just stared at the elevator then back at the door. ''SO IT IS TRUE!'' There is definitely something going on between their boss and Miss. Shen. Their boss has been so weird lately, could this be it! Can they finally have women working with them now? It was so hard to see other people working with hot woman, and they have to suffer Kris''s wrath every day.


    Collin was considering if he needed to call Tye or not. In the end, he decided not to. Collin was about to toss the handkerchief int he trash but Kris unexpectedly opened the door.


    "Give me that back."


    "Huh??" Colling was puzzled.


    Kris walked out, aggressively grabbed the handkerchief from his hand, and went back to the office with another slam on the door. Collin needed to text Tye immediately! Gossip time!


    --------


    Lena was in the elevator evilly giggling to herself. James did not really see what happened because there was a pot of tree blocking his view. But just from Lena''s smirk¡­ he knew that his lady boss was up to no good again.


    "We are going to Gary''s house."


    "Alright."


    "I have to go pick up some stuff. I am going to go visit him." Lena evil laughter faded and she sweetly smiled. She missed Gary and his cheerfulness.


    They drove to the apartment. Usually, Noah would be here but it was the weekend. Lena used the key on the door and opened it. It has been a while since she was here. They place look normal.


    Lena head to one of the rooms. It was Gary''s fishes. She learned that he had a big collection of fishes and they had been helping feed them. Lena grabbed the container of fish food and dropped a few into the tanks.


    Lena then went into the computer room. It was the other room they were able to unlock. She went into it to grab a few items she personally needed. After that, she went to the living room. She grabbed Gary''s favorite figurine. She also grabbed a picture of Gary when he was young and was standing with his coach. Lena had always thought that Gary was an orphan. He only ever talked about his coach who had looked after Gary a lot when he was growing up.


    Lena grabbed the items and locked the door before leaving again. She told Kris that she only needs 24 hours to do her task, and she was going to keep that.

 Chapter 101 - Dont Pretend

    Kris did not come home until late. Everyone was already asleep. He went for a quick shower and went and lie down on his bed.


    He was rushing to get the results of what Lena said about the Agato Land. The topography satellite did confirm the degrading land. He now has to plan how he can get out of the bid without causing a suspicion too.


    Kris tossed and turned on his bed. Why can''t this woman get out of his head? He kept going back to when Lena said "Most handsome man." Of course, he knows he is the most handsome men, he didn''t need her to tell him that! And what was with that thing she said¡­ "Babe.."


    Kris grunted. When did he go from Mr. Li to Teacher and then to Babe?! He did not even allow her to call him Kris yet!! He really needed a break from that crazy woman! After a few tosses and turns, he was finally able to go to sleep.


    He was having a dream. It has been a while since he dreamt. Taking the medicine from Tye, he often just fall into a deep slumber.


    In his dream, he was a teenager. His mother had just woken up from her long coma. He was holding his dad''s hand when they both walked into the room. His mother was on the bed and her eyes lit up and she smiled at him.


    At the sight of his mom''s soft smile, Kris felt secured and happy. He quickly let of his father''s hold and ran to his mother''s side. He jumped on the bed and hugged his mom.


    "Mom!"


    He was not crying, but he was happy. His mom was back and he would not need to be afraid anymore. He does not need to be alone again. He hugged his mother tightly, but after a while, he felt that his mother was not hugging him back.


    He let go of the hug and somehow, the woman he hugged was not his mom. It was Lena. She smiled at him.


    Kris looked down at his own body and he was not a kid anymore. She quickly back off Lena from the bed but she trampled on top of him. She was sitting on top of him. Somehow, he felt trapped by her smile. She leaned close to his face and pecked his cheeks. He held his breath in and closed his eyes.


    "This is a nightmare! This is just a dream!" Kris was having a lucid dream.


    He felt Lena moved to his left ear and whispered seductively to him. "You are the most handsome man, right babe?"


    He could feel her cool breath on his ears and he opened his eyes again. He could see Lena''s beautiful face. Her eyes sparkled and her long hair tickling his bare chest. That''s right¡­ he went to bed last night without a shirt.


    She was really beautiful. Like a goddess sent to save him. He placed his hand on her cheeks and caressed it. Lena continued to sweetly smile at him.


    "I missed you¡­" She spoke. She put on finger on his mouth and whispered to him. "I want you¡­"


    Kris felt a warm chill down his body and a tingle in his below. Lena went back to his left ear and kissed it. Then she trailed her small kisses down to his neck. She gave him a hard bite on his neck and he groaned. "Lena.."


    She lifted her face back up to stare at him. He looked into her eyes and knew she wanted a kiss. Kris closed his eyes¡­ waiting for her soft pink lips.


    Again¡­ there was a silence of nothing. But he can feel his face¡­ getting poke at instead? He quickly opened his eyes again and saw Lena looking at him. ''Oh.. she''s still here.'' He closed his eyes again.


    "What are you doing? I saw you opened your eyes, don''t pretend to go back to sleep."


    Kris still had his eyes closed but he was confused from her tone of voice. ''Pretend?''


    He opened them again and saw that Lena was not on top of him. And she was not wearing the same clothes¡­ and her hair was tied up. Was he still dreaming?


    He felt a cold chill and noticed that he had no shirt on. He blinked and quickly pulled up his blanket to cover himself. This time, he was wide awake and he was sure he was in his room.


    "Lena?"


    "Mhm?" Lena continued to look at him like he was a zombie. "Did you have a nightmare?"


    "Why are you here?!"


    Lena casually walked around his room to the window. "I asked your mom to help me bake some stuff today. We''re having a girl''s day." She opened the curtains and the bright morning light blinded Kris.


    "No.. Why are you here? In my room?"


    "Oh ... the workers were arguing about who was going to wake you up so I volunteered. Bet that you can''t fire me so I was safe. OHHH¡­.And your room is so simple too. Just like you. You don''t have many pictures of you here."


    Kris was still very confused about the situation. He did not know if it was that he had just woken up or because¡­. "Why are you here again?"


    "Your favor? I said that I can give you your answer in 24 hours. Here, you need this." Lena walked to the bed and was handing something to Kris.


    Kris had one hand holding his thin blanket over him and his other hand out to stop Lena. "Don''t come here." He cleared his throat. "Put it over there and leave."


    "Oh.." Lena walked over to the counter and placed the earphones on the counter. "Make sure you wear it though. It''s so you can listen in to know I am not lying." She gave him a thumbs up. "I''ll leave now. Your mom also said hurry up for your breakfast. Collin is already downstairs too."


    Lena closed the door and Kris finally let loose of his hold on the blanket.


    ''What the f**K just happened?'' Kris'' face was red and his heart was pounding really fast. He quickly lifted the blanket off himself and stared at the mess he made. ''Did I just have a¡­ wet dream?''

 Chapter 102 - Pop out a kid

    Kris had never had a wet dream before. He knew that Tye told him about it before but in all of his 26 years, this is not supposed to be him. This type of thing does not happen to him! He groaned and ruffled his head. He got up and looked at the bed, thinking about what to do with it.


    There was a sudden light knock on the door and Kris felt his heart skip a beat.


    "Kris?" It was Collin. "Miss. Shen said you woke up but looked weird. Are you ok?"


    Collin opened the door a bit but Kris shouted. "Don''t come in!" Collin quickly closed the door.


    "I--" Kris looked at the bed then at the door. "I''m fine. Just go down first, I''ll be down soon."


    "Ok."


    Collin left and Kris quickly grabbed the sheets. He changed the sheets and his blanket from new ones in his closet. He tossed the old ones into the laundry basket. He went into the bathroom for another quick shower before heading down.


    As he was coming down, he can hear the small chatter and laugh from Lena and his mom. He smiled. As he got closer to the kitchen he could smell something sweet baking. It was still early in the morning, how early did Lena get here?


    Kris entered the kitchen and saw Lena and his mom happily kneading the dough. Lena had her hair tied up. She was wearing a casual shirt and a long thin pant. What caught Kris'' eyes was the apron she was wearing. It was a cute pink bunny apron. It looked nice on her.


    "Oh, you''re awake? I was worried you would kick Lena out the door if she woke you up." Madam Li spoke.


    "I was already awake before she came in." Kris lied and Lena just looked at him. She did not say anything.


    Kris walked over to where Collin was sitting down, eating something. He pulled up a stool and sat down too.


    "Do you want some bread? We are almost done with them and they only take half an hour to bake." Madam Li asked.


    Kris looked at his mom and then at Lena. Somehow, he kept avoiding her eyes. "No. Collin and I have many things to do today, we''re leaving now."


    "Huh?" Collin still had a piece of dessert stuff in his mouth. ''We are leaving now?!''


    Collin was puzzled. Kris said that they had to wait till Monday before they had more stuff to do. He was only here to deliver the revision of the Agato land deal to Kris. Why are they suddenly leaving now? He still wants to eat some bread¡­


    Lena could tell that Collin still wanted to eat more stuff. "I can deliver some bread later to you guys before I head home."


    "No." Kris stood up from his chair. He immediately rejected the offer. He doesn''t want to see any more of her today, tomorrow, or the next few days!


    Madam Li continue to knead the dough and Lena kept pointing to her left ear. Kris knew that she was hinting that he needed to wear the earphones but all that was in his mind was the dream. The way she talked to his ear and ¡­.


    Kris nudged Collin and he stood up too. Kris left first without any words. Collin said his goodbyes to Lena and Madam Li then left.


    "Did he wake up on the wrong side of the bed today?" Lena mumbled.


    "Aiya¡­ don''t you mind him. He is always like that." Madam Li replied. "So¡­ you have been to his office before?" Madam Li was curious when Lena said she was going to drop some off.


    Lena got stumped. ''Oh yeah¡­ Madam Li has weird thoughts about them.'' She should be more careful about how she speaks to her.


    "Ah no. But the Li company is just on the way so I wouldn''t have not mind dropping some off. After all, you are helping me with them."


    "You are such a good daughter. I wished my son was the same. You are here trying to bake some dessert for your parents when they come back home and all my son knows is how to work."


    Lena tried to make Madam Li feel happy too. "I am pretty sure he is good too." ''Like hell he is!''


    They finished kneading the dough and rolling them. As they put them into the oven, Lena could feel that Madam Li was a good mother.


    "You know¡­ last year¡­ he gave me a dog. What kind of mom needs a dog? More like he needs a dog."


    Lena laughed sweetly. "Do you not like dogs?"


    "I am allergic to dogs. And the year before that, he bought me a private jet. Does he know that I don''t leave this city at all?"


    "Well, at least he is trying, right? I would love a jet to myself, but that is us young ones."


    Lena sat down on the stool and Madam Li turned on the timer.


    "Madam Li, if you are allergic to dogs and don''t travel much, what kind of gift would you like?"


    See! So quick already and Lena was able to ask the question. She was a professional after all.


    "Gift? From my son? Of course, grandchildren!"


    Lena laughed again. "Aigoo¡­ your birthday is soon is it not? He''s not going to pop out a kid in a few weeks."


    Madam Li laughed too but then sighed deeply afterward. "But out of everything, if I could choose, I would just really want to hug my son."


    Lena felt that Madam Li was feeling down. "I have a friend that I have not seen in a while. I would want to hug him too." She tried to lighten the mood though obviously, her situation was not as deep as Madam Li''s.


    "Miss. Shen is a good person. You will get to see him soon." Madam Li sat on the stool with Lena. "I heard you are engaged?"


    "Hmm?" Madam Li must be talking about the situation during Elder Zhao''s birthday party. "I am not engaged. But you know, parents will always be looking." Lena poured herself some juice from the table.


    "That''s good! Are you still a virgin?"


    Lena choked on her drink. She pounded her chest not because she needed it, but to turn off the microphone there so Kris would not hear the conversation.


    ---------

 Chapter 103 - Speed up

    Kris heard some crackling static and then the noises went silent. Did Lena shut him off? Kris was somewhat curious about her answer. Was she a virgin? He knew that she probally had kissed before hence her good skills, but he was not sure about that other part. Wait¡­ why is he even curious about it? It doesn''t matter to him...


    He shook the thought out of his mind and focused on something else. First and foremost, he heard what his mother wanted the most. It was also what he wanted the most too. He took out the earphones and looked out the window. Kris clenched his fist.


    "Go to Tye."


    Finally, Kris told Collin where they would be going. Since they left the house, Kris had not spoken a single word and Collin just drove the car around the streets. He knew that something was off with Kris today. COuld it be related to what Miss. Shen did to him yesterday?


    Today was the weekend and it was still early so Tye was probably still at his house. Tye lived two hours from the city but only an hour away from the safe house where Gary was. Tye was not much of a morning person unless he had something planned or it was related to Kris.


    Tye lived out far in a ranch. He had horses that he raised during his free time. Collin came up to the house. Luckily Tye''s car was still out front so he knew that the guy was still home. Most likely he was still in bed.


    Kris got out of the car first. He went up to the front porch and pounded on the door. Like Collin, he knew that Tye was still in bed.


    Kris kept pounding the door but there was no answer. Seriously, how does a guy who can spot an irregularity from miles away but not a single noise when he''s asleep.


    Collin walked up to the door. He went up to the porch light and took out a key. Kris stared at him. "Was there always one there?" He asked.


    "No. I stole his keys and made a copy. Don''t tell him."


    Collin opened the door and put the key back where he got it from. They both went inside. The house was very neat and clean.


    "I''ll go wake him up." Collin volunteered.


    Kris sat down on the sofa and relaxed his head. Collin went up the stairs to Tye''s room. He opened the door the Tye was dead asleep. He was slightly snoring and hugging his human pillow. It was the same pillow that he originally bought for Kris to use in therapy sessions but got a head beating instead.


    Collin sighed. He went and open Tye''s closet and took out his whip. WIth one big swing, he slapped it on the man''s but. Tye instantly jerked up in defense position. Once he saw it was Collin, he groaned and went back to bed.


    "Wake up! Kris is here."


    Hearing Kris'' name, Tye opened his eyes again. "What time is it?"


    "Almost 11."


    "11! I just saw him perfectly healthy a few days ago!" Tye complained.


    "Yeah.. that was before you went and cause trouble."


    Tye cleared his throat. He got up from his bed and stretched. "Give me 5."


    Collin put the whip back in the closet and exited the room. Tye washed his face and brushed his teeth. He put on some nice clothes and went out.


    He saw Kris perfectly sitting on the sofa and sneered. ''What does this boy wants now?!'' He pulled his favorite chair and sat across from Kris.


    "I want coffee." Tye demanded from Collin. Collin was irritated but he forced himself to the kitchen to brew the guy something to drink. "How are you?"


    Kris looked at the the very tired man. "I am having nightmares."


    "Again? Are they the same ones or different ones?"


    "Different."


    "Well¡­ we can try the same method against. Tell me about it."


    "I don''t want that." Kris replied. He definitely does not want to tell Tye about this. Not yet until he can figure it out himself. "Can you just give me some good sleeping medicine?"


    Tye scratched his head. "I don''t want you to be taking both medicines." Just recently Tye had put Kris back on his other medication, he doesn''t want Kris to be taking multiple pills.


    "I don''t need the other one. Give me this one instead."


    Tye sighed. He knew that he can''t argue much with Kris. Plus, with his other plan going on, Kris don''t really need the other medicine anyways.


    "I''ll send it to Collin. Is this all?" Tye was ready to go and feed his horses then go back and visit Gary. "You could have just called for this ya know?" He yawned.


    "There is one more thing."


    Collin came back with two cups of coffee, one for Kris and one for Tye. Tye quickly took his mug and drank from it.


    "Is there any way to speed up my treatment?"


    Tye looked up from his drinking. He smiled. "Speed up?"


    "My mom''s birthday is coming up in a few weeks. I want to give her something special."


    Tye put down his mug of coffee on the table. "There is no speed up. If there was one, I would have used it a long time ago."


    Kris looked a bit sad. He took his mug of coffee and drank from it. He had worked hard to secure his power. If he wanted someone dead, they will be dead. If he wanted to go somewhere, he will go there. If he wanted something, he will get it. But this one thing that he had desired the most, he cannot have. The most sincere and positive thing that any person could have, he cannot. Was his sins too great to be redeemed?


    "However." Tye spoke. He could see that Kris looked up for him to continue. "There is something that we can try."


    Kris took another drink and Tye continued. "You can try touch Lena Shen first."


    Kris spurted out the entire gulp of coffee he took in and it landed on Tye and the table. He coughed a few times.


    "What the¡­. Kris!!" Tye almost stumbled back his chair and fell. He stood up and went to the sink to grab a towel. He washed his face and tossed the towel onto the table. Kris grabbed it and wiped his mouth then cleaned the table.


    Tye glanced at Collin and gave him a sneaky wink. Collin rolled his eyes.


    Why is it that everywhere Kris went, it was all Lena that Lena this? Ugh¡­


    "Are you okay?" Tye asked.


    "Why her? I rather have a pillow over her."


    "You are asking for a short cut. This is your short cut." Tye sat back down on his chair. "Look¡­ I know you know, you''re not that stupid Kris. Your¡­ your interactions with Miss. Shen is different. Whatever it is, it''s making you better. You have to admit it."

 Chapter 104 - Take it or leave it

    "I am not going to make the decision for you. You know how we work. I can only offer you the options and you get to choose." Tye stood up again. "I have treated you for a long time. As a friend and your doctor, I think this is your best choice. I feel ashamed of myself that someone is better than me at making you better. You know I don''t do well with competition."


    Kris looked at Collin, but his face was neutral as always whenever Tye and Kris were talking. "Give me some time to think about it."


    "Aight¡­ but remember, it''s your time and your mother''s birthday doesn''t change." Tye taunted Kris a bit more. "Now leave both of you. I have things to do."


    Tye kicked both of them out of his house. Both of them went inside the car again. Tye opened the car door to speak on the last thing he had forgotten to say. "One more thing. If you do decide to go ahead with it, you need to tell her."


    Tye closed the door and watched as the car pulled out of the long dirt road and back to the main road.


    "I only created the door for you to escape, you''ll need your own strength to open the door and leave the hell you are in." Tye spoke. He scratched his head and went back inside.


    Kris was silent in the car. Collin sighed. At least this was calmer than when Kris was on his raging stages. But he felt like this was just the calm before the storm.


    "You know, I agree with Tye." Collin broke the silence. "And it is not only me. Hugh''s not here much but he knows. We''re not asking you to sleep with the woman¡­ it just more physical interactions. And even so, you know you won''t hurt her so there is no reason to not try."


    Kris unlocked his phone and dialed a number. The phone rang a few times before a voice picked up.


    "Hello."


    "Are you still there?"


    "No. I just left. Why? Do you want your bread now? Well, I can''t. I already passed the Li company."


    "No. Tye will pick you up early in the morning for you to go see Gary."


    "Tomorrow? But I have my LUX meeting tomorrow, can it be the next day?"


    "Tomorrow only. Take it or leave it." Kris hung up before Lena could complain.


    -----


    Lena was left with a dead phone call tone. She was driving today. It was the first time in a long time that she was out by herself. The meeting for LUX was important tomorrow, she did not want to miss it. Decisions¡­ decisions¡­


    "Lexi, Call Diane."


    Lexi: Calling Diane.


    Lena was using Bluetooth because she was driving. Her parents would be home in an hour and she needed to be home. She missed them. Diane picked up the phone.


    "Miss. Shen?"


    "Hey, Diane. I have an emergency tomorrow, I won''t be there for the meeting tomorrow. Can you take the lead on it?"


    "Sure, I can."


    "I was not planning on releasing the complete project to them but since I am not there, go ahead with that."


    "Yes."


    "And with everything else, reschedule them. I will personally deal with the advertising for the next release when I come back."


    "Alright."


    Lena hit the end button on her earphones. "Lexi, Call James."


    Lexi: Calling James.


    James picked up quickly. "Hello, Miss. Shen."


    "Change of plans for tomorrow. I am going to visit Gary tomorrow. Can you pick up the items I wanted to bring to him at my apartment? Bring them with you tomorrow. I will be staying at my parents tonight."


    "I can do that."


    Lena hung up on him and sped her way to the mansion. When she reached the place, Aunt Mary came out to help Lena carried her baked goods. Aunt Mary was pleased with Lena''s skill. She did not disclose specifically that Madam Li helped her with it.


    She put all but one of them on the table. She took a small box and carried it up back to her room. She placed the box on her desk and head to take a quick shower. She had been baking all morning and smells like them.


    She dried her hair using a hair drying and went down. It was too late to eat lunch and too early to have dinner, but Aunt Mary was still cooking something for her parents. They must be hungry from their long trip. Lena was helping Aunt Mary cooked a few dishes. It has been a long time since she cooked with her.


    Aunt Mary was still nagging about Lena''s cooking. "You''re doing this wrong. Cut this smaller. You need to make it look like this." Who cares about the look, as long as it tastes good!!


    "If you don''t practice well, you won''t be able to please your future mother-in-law." Aunt Mary spoke.


    "Aiya¡­ It''s ok. As long as my husband knows how to cook!" Lena joked. Of course, second leads know how to cook, don''t they always?


    "Husband cook?! Where can you find a husband who can cook?!" A strong voice could be heard from the doorway. Lena turned and saw her pretty mother standing there. "Let me tell you, your dad is the best man out there and he cannot cook."


    "Mom!" Lena rushed in for a big hug.


    "Cook?! I can boil eggs!" Shen Mao bragged.


    "Boiled eggs? Even a toddler can do that."


    Shen Mao complained to his sweet daughter. "Lili! Look at your mother. She has been grouchy so much lately!"


    "Maybe mom is pregnant?"


    Shen Mao eye''s perked up. "Milli, are you ---"


    Shen Milli knuckled his head and Lena''s. "Pregnant?! Who would get pregnant if her husband can only feed her boiled eggs?!" She walked off to their room and left them.


    Shen Mao quickly followed his wife. Lena laughed at her loving parents. She wished she will have a long-lasting marriage like them.

 Chapter 105 - 80th floor

    Her parents went to their room to relax a bit. Aunt Mary and Lena finished the light meal and set it up on the dining table. By then, they had already come back down.


    As usually, Shen Mao at the front. Shen Milli and Lena sat by each of his sides. Lena was extra happy today, seeing her parents back home. She dished much food to her parents.


    "So is grandpa alright?" Lena asked.


    "He is just getting old." Shen Mao replied. "He said that now you are not with the young master Yang, we should--" He stopped because Shen Milli nudged him to. He looked at her and knew that his lovely wife does not want to tell Lena yet.


    "What?"


    "Uh...your mother will tell you." Shen Mao passed the question to his wife and smiled.


    Shen Milli sighed. Useless husband. He only knows how to spoil people. "It''s not a good time to talk about it now. We will tell you next time."


    That response made Lena even more curious about what it was. She knew that her parents will tell her when the times come through. In the past, Lena''s bragging did her nothing good. Patience Lena¡­ patience.


    "Alright then." She was fine with it. After all, she was hiding many things from them too.


    They finished their meal and Lena brought out the desserts she made. She had them in boxes to keep them from getting dry or stale. "Have a taste. I had help from a friend."


    Shen Mao was the first to dig in. "Mhmmmmmm. It''s perfect. Definitely better than your mother''s."


    With that comment, Shen Milli went in for a taste. She nodded her head in agreement and took another of the cookies. The cookies are gentle to the mouth and soft. They have a fresh smell. It was not something too sweet and perfect for older people or children.


    Lena made a few batches of them. She packaged them in nice boxes and will give them out tomorrow. After a few more chatters, Lena let her parents off to go rest. Traveling can be very tiring. She headed back to her room.


    She tied her hair up and sat on her desk chair. She moved aside the small box she placed on there before. She took out her tablet and worked on a few designs. If she was going to be visiting Gary tomorrow, she needed to make sure her work was completed.


    Tye had texted her that he can pick her up at the apartment. Lena realized that she told James that she was staying at the mansion. She replied back to Tye and told him that he can pick up James first, then get her at the mansion. Lena will just tell her parents that Tye was a new worker under her so they would ask no questions.


    She worked for a few hours. Lena looked out the window and saw that it was finally dark. She smiled. She shut her laptop and moved the box back to the center of her desk. When she opened it, a simple small red velvet cupcake greeted her. There was a small loop of frosting on top with a cherry.


    Lena went into her shopping bags and pulled of a pack of candles and a lighter. She removed the cherry and replaced it with one candle. She sat on the chair as she lit the candle. She placed the lighter inside her drawer and looked at the night sky and her flickering candle.


    Lena clasped her hands together. "Happy birthday, Shen Qian." Today marked Shen Qian''s birthday. Lena''s birthday was a few more months away still. Lena did not know if she would continue to celebrate both of her birthdays, but she felt that she needed it this year.


    She closed her eyes. "I am greedy to have two wishes every year, but with everything I have survived, I think I deserve two." Lena took a deep breath. "But I only have one wish...please let Gary wake up. Give him a second chance."


    Lena opened her eyes and blew out the candle. She removed the candle, placed it on the window and ate the cupcake.


    --------


    It was slightly raining the next morning. Lena woke up and packed a small bag for her day trip. She wore a nice off the shoulder maxi romper and black lace-up sandals. She heard her dad went out to work this morning, but it seems like her mom was still home.


    Lena hoped that she was still in bed. She grabbed her large bag and left. Tye texted that he and James were already outside. Lena went into the kitchen and grabbed one box of cookies she baked. Then she headed out to the entrance.


    James opened the door for her and she sat down. Tye was driving and James sat in the passenger seat.


    "You look pretty today, Miss. Shen." Tye complemented.


    "Thank you." Lena replied. Tye starts driving out of the gated area. "Is it fine if we made a quick stop before we go?"


    "Sure. Where to?"


    "To Zhao Corporation please."


    Tye smiled. ''Why does she want to go there?'' He continued to drive anyways. He was the driver today. It did not take them long to reach the corporation building. Tye looked up the tall building. He never liked this place. It always gave him the chills.


    "I''ll be quick so you don''t have to go with me, James."


    Lena opened the door and hop out, taking the box of cookies with her. She walked up to the big rotating doors and the front doorman greeted her. Lena speed walked her way to the elevators, no one stopping her this time. The workers all just glance at her pretty steps. Just as she was going to hit the elevator button, she remembered that Zhao Lin has returned to work now so Ming was no longer the temp-CEO. She walked back to the front desk.


    "By any chance, Ming Zhao came to work today?" Lena asked.


    "He did, Miss. Shen."


    "Where is his office now?"


    "He is on the 80th floor."


    "Thanks."


    Lena turned backed but the lady called for her. "Miss. Shen. You can use the VIP elevator. Mr. Ming Zhao already registered your access to it." She informed Lena. She saw that before Lena just went to the normal elevators.


    "Ok, thanks again."


    The front desk lady smiled. There were not many people who say thank you to them anymore. They were treated as just information people.


    Lena walked up to the VIP elevator and pressed the button. It glowed green and opened after a few seconds. She happily walked in. VIP elevator are the bests!


    Secretary Tim was preparing his morning paperwork for the meeting. When he saw the VIP elevator lit up, he was concerned that CEO Zhao Lin was coming down to see their progress. However, to his surprise, it was Lena who arrived. She smiled sweetly at him.


    "Miss. Shen!"


    "Hello, Tim."


    Tim cleared his throat. When did they get so close? "Ah.. are you here to see Ming Zhao?"


    "Yes. I just need a few minutes if that is fine."


    "No problem you can go right in."


    Lena walked to the door and knocked. She heard Ming Zhao''s soft voice replied with a "Come in." She peeked her head in first and spoke in a cheerful voice. "HELLO!"


    Ming Zhao glanced up to see Lena''s head from the door. After their eyes met, Lena opened the door entirely and walked in. "Hope, I am not disturbing you."


    "Not at all." Ming Zhao stopped texting on his phone. "What brings you here today?"


    "Congratulating you on your demotion!" Lena placed the box of cookies onto the table. Lena could tell that Ming was not very happy to hear the word "demotion."

 Chapter 106 - Inappropriate things

    "I was just kidding. I baked them yesterday and wanted to share some with you. Although they are not fresh, they are still very good."


    Ming opened the box and he could still smell the freshness from it. They do look very good.


    Lena sat herself down on the chair across Ming. "So¡­ is this your new position?"


    "No. I am just finishing things here. My grandfather wants me to take full charge of Project Crystal and the company development there."


    "Ah¡­ How about your brother?"


    "My grandfather put him in the research department. I guess that is a nice start for him."


    "So.. is that good or not?"


    "He was not given Vice-chairman or anything related to the main company, so I guess it''s good."


    Ming''s phone keep dinging, notifying him that he has text messaged. But, he kept ignoring them so Lena did too.


    "My main purpose is actually asking for my second favor." Lena went into her purse and pulled out a small plastic zip bag with a white pill. "I can have this tested at my own lab, but sending it there and having the results back would take longer than if you do it for me. So can you have this tested and give me the result within 48 hours?"


    Ming Zhao took the small bag from her. He stared at it. After a few seconds of silence, he replied back to Lena. "I can save you a favor. Bring this down to my brother and he''ll do it for free for you."


    "Huh?" Lena was confused. Why would she want to ask help from such a man?


    "My brother is now in charge of the research and it''s progress. Knowing the strong partnership between out companies he would not deny doing this for free for you."


    "I only told my driver that I would be here quickly."


    "Secretary Tim can take you down to my brother and I can have someone notify your driver."


    "Fine. But today, you would still be doing me a favor." Lena planned to used two favors, but if this could make her only use one, then it''s still a win-win for her. "There''s a gun that I specifically want."


    Ming raised his eyebrow. "Do you think I am an arm''s dealer?"


    "The gun doesn''t exist yet. I want you to find me the person who can make it for me."


    Ming wanted to ask more questions about why Lena would need one. But then again, he has one too. If a man can carry a gun with him, a woman can too. "What name?"


    "I don''t know. James only knows her by her craftsmanship name. She goes by Reina."


    "I''ll see what I can do. No guarantee though."


    "I trust your good worth results." Lena smiled.


    Secretary Tim opened the door and waited for Lena. She thanked Ming and walked out with Secretary Tim. He led her down the elevator to the basement levels of the company. He scanned his eye and card into the elevator before the door opened.


    "I already notified Mike Zhao that you needed to meet with him. He should just be in his office there."


    "Thanks. I can go from here."


    Lena walked down the hallway. She could see from the glass walls of several scientists working on new technology. She saw a young woman hurriedly coming her way.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen." The young woman slowly bowed her head. Lena could see her pink flushed cheeks and plump lips. Her skirt was crooked and her shirt was slightly messy. "Manager Zhao is just in there."


    Lena put up her nice-lady face and smiled. She knocked on the door and only entered after she heard a "Come in." She opened it and there he was, sitting like a bastard. Judging from the young woman outside, this man was probably doing inappropriate things before she arrived. Why did Ming Zhao even tell her to come down here?


    Lena does not know if she wanted to sit in the chair or not but she kept her smile. "Manager Zhao." They shook hands. Lena made sure it was a quick one. She doesn''t know what places that nasty hand had been.


    "My brother said there was something I could help you with?"


    "Yes. I asked him but I guess you were the better person to come to." Lena tried to sugar coat the man.


    "Of course. How can I help you."


    Lena did not dare sit down. She just needed to get her things done and leave. She handed him the small plastic zip bag. "I want you to test this and tell me what it is."


    Mike took the bag from her and looked at the pill. His smile instantly dropped and his eyes flickered with fright. Lena spotted it even though he quickly smiled again.


    "Sure thing!" He swallowed.


    It did not take a smart person to know that this man was nervous. It was like a child hiding from his mother that he had done something wrong. "If possible, can I get a result within 24 hours?" Lena cut the time by half. "After all, you are the best man suited for this job, are you not?"


    "Anything for you. Such a pretty lady, I can never deny such a request." He glanced down Lena''s full body. Lena continued to keep her shining smile and relax her hand that wants to punch this a**hole. "If you don''t mind, may I ask how Miss. Shen got this pill?"


    Lena could read his curious mind this time. She knew that Ming Zhao probably sent her down for a reason. She had to play smart even though she had not complete idea what this pill was. "A friend gave it me. She said¡­" Lena leaned close to the man so she could whisper. "It''s good on men¡­ you know." She backed away and seductively winked at him. In her normal voice, she continued. "I just wanted to make sure it was the real thing and nothing bad from it. So 24 hours?"


    "I can give you the results in 24 hours."


    "Very well then, I owe you one." Lena smiled and walked out of the room. She quickly went back to the elevator to leave this hell hole. When she got back to the main floor, she stopped by the bathroom and washed her hands several times before heading back out to the car. She looked at the clock and only 30 minutes had passed.


    She''ll make sure to get an explanation from Ming next time.

 Chapter 107 - Answer yes or no

    James saw Lena coming and he got out to open the car door for her. She quickly got in. Tye put down his phone and turned to face Lena. "How was it?"


    Lena sat down comfortably in the back. "Good." She took off her purse and dropped it onto the car floor.


    James got into the car and it did not take Tye any longer to start their long drive to the safe house. There were a few times where Tye and James were arguing. James kept telling Tye that he drives like a grandma and that he should drive instead. Tye did not trust James with his car.


    Tye''s defense was that he was the perfect driver, driving perfectly at the correct speed limit. He had never gotten pulled over so he needed his record to stay clean. James stopped arguing and went back to doing his own things.


    Lena was at the back, looking through some files for work. She sent Diane a messaged to update her on the meeting. When they finally got out of the city, the roads were smoother. Everyone was doing their own thing and the car ride was silent. Tye did not know if he should turn on the radio or put some music on.


    "So¡­ you know Ming Zhao?" Tye started a conversation instead.


    "Mhm." Lena was still focused on the file she was reading.


    "What''s your relationship?"


    "I''m single¡­ and looking." Lena naturally replied.


    Tye was not asking about her relationship status¡­ but her relationship with Ming Zhao. This woman was always snarky about her replies.


    "You bought him cookies?"


    Lena closed the document and glanced up from her tablet. She put it away so she can focus on their conversation. She does not want to be rude. "No. I baked them."


    "Oh..." Tye can tell that their relationship was not a simple business partnership. What kind of partner brings personal baked goods to the other? He had never gotten any cooked food from his business partners nor his friends! "What kind of man are you looking for?"


    "What kind of man are you looking for?" Lena repeated the question back to him. "If you want to ask questions and get an answer, we need to play fair."


    Tye laughed. Of course, this woman was all about equality. She must always gain something if she was going to share something about herself. "Younger men."


    Lena gave Tye a death glare. Although Tye could not see it since his eyes were on the road, he could sense it. It felt like he was being haunted. "Don''t worry. I don''t go for straight men." He clarified.


    "I¡­Hmmm." Lena paused to think. There was a difference between an ideal man and an attainable man. "I want a man who can be happy with me. When he''s with me, he can always smile. I need a man who can keep up with me though, I am very wild."


    Smiles¡­ Kris does not have that. Tye sulked. Keep up with her¡­ Tye does not know if Kris'' wildness is the same as Lena''s wildness.


    "If Miss. Shen can be anyone in the world, who would you want to be?"


    "No one. I am satisfied with myself, all my flaws and goods."


    Big Ego. Tye chuckled inside. She is just like Hugh¡­ that''s a bad thing though!


    "My turn." Lena spoke. "You just have to answer yes or no."


    "Ok."


    Lena smirked. You should never play a game with her if you are not willing to play until the end. Especially a game with no rules, she''s a wild card. "Does the rumored mistress of the Li family exist?"


    Tye''s heart stopped for a moment and he slowed down the car. ''Damn this witch¡­ she is playing unfair!''


    Lena just wanted to see his reaction. She could already get an answer from that. Now, the next part was just seeing what kind of man Tye was. If he answered yes, then he was honest and a strong man who knows how to win a game. If he answered no, then he was a weak and untrustworthy person.


    "Yes." Tye answered after a while. Lena smiled at her win. James was just sitting casually, listening to the conversation.


    "Since Miss. Shen is playing unfair, I can ask you a personal question too."


    "Go ahead. I am a very open person." Lena replied.


    "Are you still a virgin?"


    Lena smiled dropped. ''What is wrong with people these days and asking about her virginity. These days¡­ young people are getting sexually active so soon! Are they mocking her experience?!''


    Last time Madam Li asked her, Lena chuckled softly and replied with a general response. She said, "Well, I have yet to get marry." And luckily, her mother called right after that and Lena spent a good amount of time talking to her mother. By then, Madam Li was already taking out the bread from the oven and their original conversation did not continue.


    "Yes. But I have watched porn before." Lena innocently answered. She thought that maybe that last comment will redeem her.


    James, who had been silent this whole time, burst out laughing.


    "It''s not funny. Hazel forced me to watch it, saying that I need practice if I wanted to sleep with Andy. I had nightmares after that. Can''t look at a man the same ever again."


    James stopped laughing. "Sorry." He took a deep breath. He knew that Lena saw him as a father figure. "Maybe you just watched a bad one."


    "Yeah. Women can watch those stuff too! I am a doctor, I would know." Tye added in.


    "I am not touching that poisonous thing ever again." Lena proclaimed. "I choose real love over fake love any day! The things you watch don''t happen in real life, just like dramas."


    Well, except her. Lena remembered that she somehow was magically here, in a different body and a different world.

 Chapter 108 - See you again

    "Do you believe that there are other worlds out there?" She asked.


    "Planets with life?" James asked.


    "No. Like a multiverse."


    "I don''t."


    "I do." Tye spoke. "We have not even fully understand how the human brain''s work, pretty sure there are many more mysteries out there. Although I believe that some things are just there and we can''t explain everything."


    The three of them continued to play the question game. They all took turns to ask a question for the other two to answer. They avoided any more personal questions and focused on general and controversial topics.


    After a while, they entered into a dirt road off the main road. The surrounding was just lush trees. The place looked like there was no security, but most of it was technology hidden in nature. Soon, they came up to a beautiful eastern inspired mansion.


    "We''re here."


    James went out first to open the door for Lena. Lena stepped out and stared at the big mansion. Lena was happy, she will finally get to see Gary again, after such a long time.


    "Even though you are not staying here, I can take you to a room to put your things there. I can take you to see Gary after."


    Lena nodded. When they entered the mansion, Lena can see that everything was mostly wooden. The furniture and designs inside the mansion were rustic. There were several artworks on the walls, but nothing that reflected that this was a home. Was there anyone even living here? Lena could not see or sense anyone.


    "The ground floor is where Gary is. The rooms are up the stairs." Tye explained.


    They walked up a spiral staircase. Tye opened the first door and everyone entered. Lena spun around to get a good look at the room. Although she was not going to stay here, the room was very beautiful. It made her feel like a British Princess.


    Lena placed her big bag and purse on the bed. James put down a big box on the wooden table. "Just give me one minute."


    James and Tye left the room. Lena went to the big box and took out a smaller box from it. She opened it and it had the picture frame and the other items. She grabbed it and head out.


    Tye led them back down and they walked to a long and dead hallway. He finally opened a big door and Lena could hear the beeping of the machines.


    "There''s another doctor aside from me and a team of nurses who are always on standby. Just press the green button there if you need any one of them." Tye pointed to the button that was on the wall next to Gary''s bed. "I''ll go see what we are going to have for lunch. I''ll call you then when it''s time to eat."


    "Thanks."


    Tye left first. James told Lena that he would just be outside the door. Lena took in a deep breath and walked over to Gary. She placed the picture frame on the table next to the bed. She saw that her lucky charm was hanging there too.


    She went and grabbed a chair and pulled it next to the bed. "Hi. I missed you." Lena could see that he was growing facial hair on his face. It was weird because Gary always had a baby face. She grabbed his hand and held it with both of hers.


    "There is so much that has happened. I broke into your house. I stole a few things, but I made sure to transfer some money to your bank account. I paid for your rent and feed your fishes. And I think your neighbor had a crush on you. She was at your funeral and she cried the most." Lena laughed.


    "I brought your favorite book. Well, it''s mine actually but yeah. It''s a short children''s book. I''ll read it to you." Lena researched that sometimes people who are in a coma can hear people. Lena originally planned to bring Gary''s favorite book to read for him.


    She did not know his favorite book. She tried to grab something from his house, but there were all big and boring books. She brought something she loved instead. She''ll ask him about his favorite book when he wakes up. At least something that was not a chapter book. She needed some pictures.


    Lena read Gary the book. She made faces and sounds like she was reading the book to a child. When she finished it, Tye came back with her lunch. He knew that Lena would want to spend all of her time with Gary so he said she can eat in the room. Lena finished her food first and Tye came back. He showed Lena how the tube feeding works.


    Lena was honestly a bit grossed out from that. Most of all, she was disgusted at the "food" that Gary had to eat. Gary was a man who loves eating good food. Lena really hoped that he would wake up soon. She would take him wherever he wanted to go to eat.


    After both of them ate, Lena was alone with Gary again. Tye left some snacks and fruits on the table. Lena only brought one book so she just sat and stared at Gary. Lena held his hand again and placed her head on it.


    "I am glad to see you again." Lena closed her eyes. "I really want to ask you how you know my name. I hope you remember. Do you remember? You called me... Shen Qian."


    Gary''s hand instantly grasped Lena''s hands and she jerked up her head. "Gary?"


    She looked at him, but his eyes was still closed. His hand was definitely holding her hands very tightly. She went up to press the button but then Gary started shaking uncontrollably. The machines were making weird beeping noises.


    Lena pressed the button and walked to the bed and tried to help. "GARY?!"

 Chapter 109 - A Miracle

    Tye opened the door and saw that something was severely wrong. Every single machine was blinking red. Lena looked back to Tye. For the first time, he saw Lena so vulnerable. There were tears streaming down her beautiful face. He quickly walked over and the rest of the medical team also entered the room.


    "What''s wrong with him?" Lena asked.


    "Get her out of the room!" Tye demanded.


    "No! I want to stay."


    One of the nurses tried to take Lena out of the room but she was being very aggressive. The other doctor was doing something to Gary. Lena could not see what was going on because they were all around Gary. Tye walked over. "Lena, you can''t stay here. We need to do our job."


    Lena was shaking her head. She does not want to leave Gary alone. James walked over and picked her out of the room. He closed the door and took her elsewhere. James knew that Lena this morning she was already trying so hard before to smile and not be sad seeing Gary in such a state.


    James placed Lena on a bench outside in the back porch. He let her hug him as she continued to sob softly. He put a hand on her back and console her. In the past, this was also how he consoled his wife. He knew that at this moment, Lena just needed someone to stay with her. After about 10 minutes, Lena stopped. She was just sniffing.


    "He was fine before." Lena muttered.


    "Gary''s going to be fine." James consoled her. "He would have died earlier if he was not holding onto something."


    Lena took a deep breath to calm herself. She clenched her fists. "I swear I am going to kill that woman."


    After a few more minutes, Tye came out of the glass doors. Lena stood up from the bench. She wiped the rest of her tears that had dried up.


    "How is he?"


    "He''s stable." Tye looked at Lena. "What did you do?" He walked toward Lena.


    Lena felt that that was an interrogation question, but somehow Tye did not look like he was mad nor angry. "I did not do anything. I was just holding his hands and talking to him like I was before."


    ''This woman¡­ was she really a goddess?'' Tye thought. "He had a small seizure."


    "That does not sound good at all."


    "I did not tell you before because Kris did not want to inform you, but the chances of Gary waking up was very minimal. Even less than what Madam Li had. Honestly, in all my years of the weird patients that I had, I don''t know why Gary was not dead."


    "Are you trying to say that he will never wake up now?" Lena was confused. Tye just said he was stable and now he was talking about this like something horrible happened.


    "No." Tye put on hand on Lena''s shoulder. "It''s a miracle. His brain activity spiked up like he was never in a coma."


    "That means¡­"


    "It means that his brain is having normal activity like you or me."


    Lena mood lightened up. This was the best news she had since she "died." She smiled. "Is he awake?"


    "No. But I would assume it would just be a few days."


    "Oh my gosh!" Lena jumped up and hugged Tye! Her wish came true! Gary''s going to wake up! "AHHH! Can I go see him now?"


    "Yeah."


    Tye led her back to the room. The nurses were still there. Lena did not notice them before, but they were pretty nurses. The other doctor was also a pretty woman.


    Lena went and sat on her chair again. She touched Gary''s cheeks. "Thanks¡­ for not leaving me."


    Tye nodded at the medical workers for them to leave. They finished what they were doing and left.


    "He still have everything attached to him. We will slowly remove each machine and check on him every hour." Tye explained.


    "Ok."


    "It really is a miracle." Tye expressed. "I can''t really explain this. AHA¡­ I am a genius doctor."


    Lena laughed. ''Stupid Doctor. It''s not you¡­ it was me.'' Lena''s mood was lighting back up again. "I am going to stay for a few days here, just in case he wakes up by then."


    "That''s fine. I''ll go check on a few things and come back." Tye left.


    Lena took out her phone. She stood up and walked to the windows. She stared at the vast green forest. She dialed her mom''s number. Her mom picked up after a few rings.


    "Mom."


    "Lena? Are you okay? You sound different."


    "I''m fine." Lena tried to cover her voice, considering she just survived a roller coaster of emotions. "I am going to be gone for a few days."


    "A few days?"


    "One of my friends need me. Uh.. She was with me when Andy broke up with me and now I need to be there for her." Lena did a white lie. Everyone thought that Gary was dead so she could not say his name. And she could not say that she will be with a male friend. Hazel was away for another movie shoot, so she cannot use Hazel as an excuse.


    "I understand. I''ll take care of SHYNE for you. James is with you?"


    "Yeah, he''s here."


    "Ok. You need anything, you call your mommy okay?"


    "Mhm¡­ Love you."


    "I love you too."


    Lena hung up on the phone. She texted Diane about her situation¡­ making sure to stick with the same story. Diane sent Lena the details of the meeting, saying that it went well. Diane will be taking care of things so Lena does not need to worry. Lena still told her to send the paperwork needed for her to review.


    Lena went back and sit down on the chair. Again, she held Gary''s hand. "You better wake up soon or I''ll be too poor to take care of you."

 Chapter 110 - Plan backfired

    Through the night, Lena stayed with Gary. She watched as the nurses come by every hour to check up on him. Tye told Lena that they will remove the ventilator the next morning to make sure he was going to be fine throughout the night.


    Lena worked on new designs for SHYNE. She ate her dinner and read Gary a goodnight story before going to her room. She only brought one pair of clothing. She did not prepare for staying for a few days. Luckily, most of the nurses were female so they gave Lena some of their clothes. Lena was not picky.


    She made sure to sleep not too late and get enough sleep. She knew that she had to keep herself healthy too. Tye does not need two useless patients. It was 8 a.m. when Lena woke up. She took a quick shower, got dressed, and went up to see Gary. She saw that there was a nurse in there already.


    "Am I disturbing?" Lena asked.


    "No. I am just washing Mr. Chen."


    Lena stood by the door still. ''Washing¡­''


    "Um¡­ Do you want to help?" The nurse asked. "We just wash his upper body and legs. We do that every morning. He gets a full body wash whenever Dr. Tye is available."


    "Ok." Lena walked in. Since it was not anything drastic, she wanted to help. The nurse gave Lena a towel and another warm bucket of water.


    She demonstrates a quick wash on Gary''s arm. Lena could see that Gary''s shirt was already opened. It was not his bare skin that caught her eyes but the bullet wound on his chest. She could see that it had healed like hers.


    The nurse saw that Lena was looking at the wound. "The wound is mostly closed now. You can clean them too but just be extra gentle. You can start on that side and I will do this side."


    Lena nodded. She dipped her towel into the warm water and squeezed the water out. She gently wiped Gary''s right arm, his chest, and right leg. Lena followed carefully what the nurse was doing. After that, the nurse washed Gary''s back. When they were both done, the nurse left Lena in the room.


    Lena went and wash her hand in the restroom attached to Gary''s room. She went back to the room and opened the curtains. She slid the windows a bit to let some fresh air into the room.


    After breakfast, Tye came in and removed Gary from the ventilator. Gary was perfectly able to breathe by himself. Tye checked the function of his other organs and his brain activity. Good results still.


    She repeated her day just like yesterday. She worked for a few hours, read to Gary, and ate when needed. It has just been over 24 hours and Lena was already kind of bored. She was talking to no one except Gary, who does not respond to anything.


    -----


    The next day, Lena woke up later than usual. By the time she went to see Gary, Tye had already given Gary a full body wash. Lena was curious to see how Tye was. The way he talks about "bathing" and how he was when he was actually a doctor was different. Lena trusted that Tye was a wonderful doctor.


    Today, Lena wore a turquoise plain tank top shirt and black long leggings. It was something that one of the nurses who was most similar to Lena''s size gave her. Today, Lena did her morning stretch and sang to Gary. Although she does not have the best vocals, it was something fun to do. She did not care if she was going to break all the windows in this mansion.


    "Phew." Lena took a deep breath. She went and sat on the chair next to the bed. She sulked on the bed and gently poked Gary. "Are you going to wake up yet? I am bored. Should I keep singing?"


    "If you want him to never wake up, go ahead." A rough voice spoke.


    Lena turned around and saw Kris standing on the door. She blinked and rubbed her eyes just to make sure she was not seeing a ghost. "When did you get here?"


    "Since the first song..."


    "Ah? That long?" Lena sang 10 songs... He stood by the door for over half an hour?!


    Kris walked over and look at Gary. "Heard he was going to wake up soon?"


    "Yeah." Lena smiled at Gary. Kris can tell that Lena really cared for Gary. She looked back at Kris. "Why are you here?"


    "I was free."


    Collin who was also in the room wanted to drop dead on the floor. FREE?! Like hell Kris'' schedule was free! The man did not do any work for the last two days and then suddenly said he needed a vacation. And his vacation was here... What kind of vacation is this? Collin rescheduled all their meetings and pushed it to next week. The only thing completed was the plan on what to do with their bid for the Agato Land.


    Kris thought that kicking out Lena to come here, he could have some peace to think and work without hearing her name for a few days. But his plan backfired when he was still having the same dreams. And each time, it seems to be getting worse, but he always wakes up before anything goes further. He should ask Tye for stronger medicine, the current ones are not working.


    Kris looked at Lena and she was wearing something different today. Her hair was tied up from her stretches and singing. The clothes she was wearing, Kris could see clearly her body shape, the way the clothes tightly grip to her body.


    He swallowed and turned his face away from her. "Have you eaten yet? My mom packed some food."


    "For me?" Lena''s eye lit up from the word food.


    "No. It was for Tye, but she made many meat dishes. Tye''s a vegetarian."


    Lena clapped her hands together and smiled. "Ah... Meat!"


    She had been eating so many healthy foods for the last two days. Being the good guest she was, she did not complain. "You are my savior! I was going to faint if I went on another day without good food."

 Chapter 111 - Eavesdropping

    Lena followed Kris to the dining room. Because the food would be extra greasy and fatty, she did not want to eat it in Gary''s room. The smell might be too much. The dining table was small, a table for four. Kris sat down on one end and Lena on the opposite. She was happy that she was going to eat a fulfilling meal.


    Collin brought over the containers and started unpacking them. Lena spotted several seafood dishes and roasted duck. She squealed.


    Kris thought that Lena was reacting like a person who had never eaten lavishing meat dishes before. Kris was taking his time to get his utensils ready. He placed the napkin on his lap but Lena already rushed in the dishes. She uses her own eating utensils to grabbed for the food and ate. She was too excited that she forgot Kris was there for a moment.


    She went for another bite before she finally remembered his presence. "Oh¡­ you''re eating too?" Lena rushed a bit to eat the food. She forgot that some people may not like to share. Using her eating chopsticks to grab from the dishes was not good etiquette.


    Kris stared at her wide eye for a bit. It was the first time he had sat down and someone did not care about the way they eat. Somehow, he was not mad though. Instead, he smiled. He removed the napkin on his lap and placed it back on the table. "It''s fine. You can continue."


    Kris used his own eating chopsticks and copied Lena.


    "Ok!" Lena happily continued, seeing that Kris was fine with it. Lena, Gary, and Hazel always eat like this so it seems natural to her. For Kris, this was the first time he was doing this.


    Collin was having a heart attack so he left the area. He bumped into a stalker Tye in the hallway. "What are you---"


    Tye covered up Collin''s mouth. "Shh.."


    Collin looked up behind Tye and saw James just standing there. James shrugged. He did not know why Tye was so "secretive." It was obvious that Tye has no skills in eavesdropping. Kris probably knew he was there.


    Of course, Kris could sense that stupid Doctor''s footsteps from miles away. But he was more focused on the faces Lena was making. There was one dish she did not like and passed it to Kris. Of course, Kris did not like it too, but he ate it.


    "There is something." Kris interrupted Lena''s happy eating.


    "Hmm" Lena replied with her chopsticks in her mouth, her mind more focused on what she was going to eat next.


    "Since you ate the food, you need to do something for me."


    Lena''s happiness died instantly. She put her chopsticks on the table and glared at Kris.


    ''Did I say something wrong? Hugh says give her food¡­.'' Kris felt that this was not going the way he had planned it.


    "Your food was bribery?!" Lena scoffed. She put her arm around all the food containers and dragged them all to her side of the table. She even took back the dish that she did not like. "None for you then, puke it back out and I''ll do something for you."


    Kris rolled his eyes. Was this woman serious?! He got a bit impatient. "The food is not bribery."


    "Then don''t say that it is. If you need something just ask. I told you already, you can kindly ask."


    Kris grabbed back the dish that both of them hated and placed it on his side of the table. "Then I will kindly ask."


    Lena crossed her arms and waited. She stared at him with dissatisfaction.


    Collin popped his head and nudged Kris for him to continue. Lena could not see him because her back was facing away from Collin. Tye also popped his head and gave Kris the "okay."


    Kris wanted to kill both of them. "Remember that favor I asked you to do before? I.." He paused. "I want you to help me with that too."


    Lena stopped her angry glares. She thought that he was going to ask her to do something stupid again. She did not really expect that the conversation she had with Tye would actually make Kris ask her for help for real. Kris must have been a very spoiled child. She could tell that it was hard for him to ask for anything so nicely. She guessed that it was due to his strong authoritative personality. Sometimes, being at the top, you forget how to ask for some things nicely. Not everyone worked for you.


    She smiled. She grabbed the nasty dish back and placed it right in front of her. "You forgot please."


    Kris glared at her, but it was directed towards the two-man behind her. They were giving him the "keep going" signal, waving their hands like crazy men.


    "Would you help me with my therapy, please?"


    "Ok." Lena pushed all the dishes back to the middle of the table. She took a bit from her favorite dish, taking the last shrimp from it. She swallowed. "But..."


    BUT?! Kris was holding his patience so much and there is a but!!!!


    "You have to pay me," Lena replied. "And you are not allowed to harm me. I will charge you for every single pain you give me."


    "What happened to being kind?"


    "You are not my friend," Lena replied back to what Kris told her once before.


    "I am your teacher."


    "Yeah... but if I help you, then wouldn''t I be the teacher then? Plus, you''re rich and I am poor. You can spare another person on your payroll."


    "Fine."


    Lena was happy. She was getting paid for doing an easy job! Kris was not paying attention much when they were talking. When he looked back at the dishes, Lena had already picked out all the meat. He was still hungry, but he put down his chopsticks. He''ll get back at her, just wait.


    Tye winked at Kris and dragged Collin back to the hallway. James, as usual, had no reaction. He did not entirely know what was going on but he could make most of the conversation. He''ll make sure Lena was safe at all times.

 Chapter 112 - Carnivores

    Lena saw that she was being greedy. She took the last meat but she had not eaten it yet. Seeing Kris stopped eating, she placed the piece of meat on his plate. "I''m full."


    Kris internally looked at the meat in disgust but he manned up and picked back up his chopsticks and ate it. "Thanks."


    "You said thank you." Lena pointed out. Kris did not even know that it slipped out of his mouth. "You should say please and thank you more. People would not fear you so much."


    "I will do as you say, Teacher." Kris played along as Lena had done with him in the past.


    Lena smiled. She gulped down her glass of water and stood up. "I am going back to check on Gary. Tell me when we start therapy."


    When Lena went out of the dining area, the hallway was already cleared. The three men were hiding in a different room. Lena walked happily back to Gary''s room. She ate and she was in a good mood.


    ''Should I go and sing again?'' Lena wondered.


    Kris stood up from the table. He walked to the hallway and opened the door the three men were hiding in. James bowed his head to greet him then left the room to go and watch Lena. When James left, Kris shut the door. Collin and Tye knew that they were in trouble.


    "Hey Kris, you did a good job!" Tye tried to smile.


    Kris stared at him with no expression. Tye held his breath. He could feel the piercing eye stabbing his every bone.


    "When do you want to start?" Tye continued.


    "Where is Keso now?" Kris asked Collin.


    "He is finishing up the task you gave him. He will arrive tomorrow morning."


    "We will start the moment he arrives."


    "Good! I will go prepare Miss. Shen for the session then." Tye tried to leave by Kris pulled him back to his original place.


    "I am hungry. Go cook me something to eat."


    "You just ate!"


    "Did you see how much that woman ate?!"


    "She said you should use more thank you and please. As your therapist, I agree with her." Tye nodded but Kris gently knocked him in the head with his knuckles. "I will go make you something then."


    "I don''t want your damn salads though."


    "I don''t have any more meat. I used all I had on her already."


    Kris opened the door. "I don''t care if you have to drive 8 hours to go buy meat. I want meat." He closed the door and left.


    Tye grumbled in complaint. Only Hugh and he knows how to cook properly. The dishes that they ate before was not Madam Li''s but what Hugh made.


    "You go buy meat. I will cook." Tye tried to divide the work to Collin.


    "Can''t. I have a company to run because the boss had decided to take a vacation." Collin left Tye alone in the room.


    The nearest store was an hour away. Tye did not want to go but he needed to anyways. If Kris was going to stay here for a few days too, he needed to feed two carnivores.


    -----


    As Kris demanded, the moment Keso arrived, their first physical therapy session began. Tye prepared Lena on some procedures and precaution. They spent a good amount of time talking last night about what she should and should not do.


    Today, Lena was wearing similar to what she was wearing yesterday. They were just different colors. Kris wore a dark blue shirt and black pants.


    Lena helped the nurse wash Gary and then they all went to the room next door to have their session.


    "We will start small first." Tye spoke. He looked at Keso and James to make sure the two big men were on standby if anything horrible happens. Tye was giving all his hope that this would work. After all, this woman was a goddess, was she not?


    Lena and Kris stood up in the middle of the large empty room. There were standing opposite of each other.


    "Miss. Shen, try just tapping his shoulder. Like a nice pat."


    "Ok."


    Lena brought up her left hand to pat Kris on his right shoulder. Before she could even touch him, he swatted her hand.


    "Ow." Lena stared at the man who had no reaction at all. "That will cost you 20,000."


    Kris looked at the woman she was a crazy woman. "That is a ridiculous amount."


    "Tye told me to charge you high so you will think twice before you do it again. Don''t make me go higher, I am already generous with the amount."


    Kris glared at Tye. ''This will be coming out of your paycheck!''


    "Again!" Tye yelled. He felt like he was a movie director.


    Kris composed himself for a pat. ''She''s just like Hugh!'' He tried to use that method again. At least she has her hair up today.


    Lena quickly patted Kris'' shoulder. It was less than a second.


    "Miss. Shen, try a bit longer."


    Lena looked up at Kris and she bit the bottom of her lips. This time she patted him again for a few seconds. She released her stress when she did not get swatted.


    "I need a break." Kris spoke.


    "Already?!" Lena was shocked. They just started and he was already needing a break? This was going to be more difficult than she imagined. Oh well, Tye told her to be patient and she will be.


    Tye, on the other hand, got very worried. "Are you having trouble breathing? Are you feeling a shake coming? Are you going to faint?" He walked up to check Kris.


    Kris shook his head. "I just need a break." He walked out of the room and went to a smaller room where the resting area was.


    Lena was confused but she continued to stand there. Tye went and chase after Kris to make sure he was alright. Collin was not here, he was busy having a video conference.


    Tye walked in the small room and closed the door. He saw Kris on the sofa. He noticed that Kris was not shaking or having any visible concerns. "Are you okay?"


    "I feel like I can''t breathe correctly." Kris replied. Tye walked over and sat beside Kris. He took his pulse and can tell that it was higher than normal.


    "Just relax, we can try again."


    Kris took in a deep breath. "Can we cover her face or something?"


    "What?"


    "I can''t look at her. She keeps making these weird faces."


    Tye''s heart stopped beating because he was really concern about Kris. But, Kris needed a break because he could not look at Lena?! He told Lena to have patience but maybe he might run out of patience first. "We can''t cover her face. You need to see that she''s a woman."


    At the word woman, Kris reacted and his hands started shaking a bit. Tye held it down. "Remember Kris, this is not for her or for us. It''s for you."

 Chapter 113 - I win!

    "She''s a woman." Kris repeated. "Let''s go." He walked out the door like his usual self. He walked back into the room but this time, everyone can see that something was different. He was truly ready now. He looked at Lena and she could tell that this was his evil side. The side he used to run the Li Conglomerate and achieve his underworld title.


    Tye followed him back and sat down on his director chair. "We will try something else." Lena and Kris looked at Tye. "You both are like water and oil. It won''t mix unless you shake it really hard. You both need to be aggressive with each other."


    He stood up and went to the closet. He opened the large closet door and Lena could see that there were several weird items there. Tye took out a pair of boxing gloves. He tossed to Lena and it landed on the ground.


    "Miss. Shen, if you don''t mind, wear them. This time, you will fight Kris."


    "What?" Lena was confused. "I have not mastered my self-defense."


    "It''s fine. This is not a training session. Think of it as the only time you will be able to get to fight Kris. He will only be defending."


    Lena shrugged. She guessed that it was not that bad if she can land a few punches on Kris. She picked up the gloves from the ground and wore them. They were smaller so it fitted her hands.


    "Now, Kris, as I said, you will only be defending. You are not allowed to attack. If you do, Miss. Shen gets a free punch in the face."


    "Can you call me Lena?" Lena spoke. She was in a good mood now. She like this idea very much!


    "Very well then, Lena and Kris, you may begin."


    Lena swung her arm and Kris reacted with a quick block. He smirked at her and mouthed "weak." Lena glared at him and swung again and again. Kris continued to block them. Lena was not using a lot of strength since she knew her chances of landing a blow was unlikely. She also needed to save her strength and play unfair.


    "Can I use my feet?" Lena asked after a few more failed punches.


    "Whatever you want." Tye directed.


    Lena backed away from Kris and did a high spinning kick. Kris did not expect that move but he dodged it in time. James, who was standing on the sidelines, was quite proud of his lady boss. She was not an expert yet but she had learned well so far. Her stamina was good but her strength was still floppy.


    Lena charged Kris again and tried to trip him with her legs. Kris was too fast for her though. He let her charge forward. He put his arms around her, locking her in position. Lena''s back was facing Kris. Lena struggled to get out of the hold. She tried to step on his feet but that was too obvious of a move.


    Lena then bit Kris'' hand and but the man was still holding her tightly. ''Whatever you want.'' Lena recalled what Tye said. She then stuck out her tongue and licked his hands and wrists, making sure to leave lots of saliva.


    Kris instantly let go and back away in disgust. He rubbed the saliva on his pants.


    "Hah!" Lena chuckled. She did not take a second to rest and charged again. This time, she made sure Kris would not be able to lock her in. Lena just really wanted to land one blow on that handsome face of his. Time to play more dirty.


    She backed away and stopped smiling. She widened her eyes. She opened her mouth wide and pointed at Kris. "OH MY GOSH! You''re having a boner!!"


    Every single one of the men in the room pause to look at where Lena was pointing. Kris stopped and looked down too. Lena smiled and quickly landed a punch under his chin, making him stumble a bit. Lena then quickly tripped his leg and he fell down. Lena grabbed his arm and made sure he fell face down. She sat on his back and pulled his arm.


    "I win!"


    ''This woman keeps playing dirty!'' Kris was irritated. Using the hand that Lena was pulling, he pulled harder and Lena released her grip. Kris then quickly use both of his hands and grabbed Lena, toppling her over to the side. He spun up and this time straddle on top of Lena. She was facing him. He held her arms with both of his hands.


    "You lose."


    Lena pouted and scowl at him. "You''re not supposed to attack. I get a free punch." She tried to wiggle her way out but Kris really put his weight on her.


    "You were playing dirty."


    "If you don''t let me go right now, I will lick you again."


    Kris smirked and raised one of his brows. "You think I will let you do that again? I will lick you instead."


    "EW... get away from me."


    "Kris."


    Kris looked up and saw Collin at the door. Kris looked down at Lena. He was so serious that he had forgotten where they were. He let go of Lena''s hand and stood up. Lena quickly stood up too. She was so focused on winning she forgot everyone else in the room. Embarrassing! She blushed.


    Collin cleared his throat. "Madam Li called you but you were... busy. She''s on hold on my cell."


    Kris looked at everyone. "I''ll be back."

 Chapter 114 - Give her a hug

    Kris left the room and Collin stared at Tye suspiciously. Tye shrugged and Collin reluctantly left even though he wanted to know what happened. Collin would yell at the doctor but he went out and followed Kris. Lena just kept her stance.


    "Lena."


    "Hmm?" Lena took her eyes away from the door and looked at Tye.


    "Thank you. You did a good job."


    "Oh..No problem! I am a professional!" She gave Tye a thumbs up.


    "You can go take a shower. We will continue next time."


    "Ok."


    Lena walked out and James followed. She took off her gloves and handed them to James.


    "Miss. Shen has improved since the last time we trained."


    "Thanks."


    "However, you have a lot of weaknesses. I''ll be sure to train you harder next time."


    Train harder¡­ Training with James was very hard already! James did not go easy on Lena. Lena told him that no matter if she complained, whined, or threaten James, James will not let her do so. Thus, James treated Lena like a soldier. It was just that since the accident, they had not fully gone out and trained while Lena continues to recover.


    ----


    When everyone left the room, Tye smiled. He pulled his chair to a window and climbed up the chair. He took out a camera from that was hiding in the curtains.


    "Heh¡­" Tye grinned.


    He grabbed the camera and went back to his room to hide it. Once the coast was clear, he went to Kris'' room. Collin was outside the door. Collin saw the shady doctor walking to him.


    "What crazy things are you doing now?" Collin disapproved.


    "It does not matter how crazy it was. You saw it yourself. He was able to perfectly react to her."


    "Tye¡­ you can''t push Kris too much. You are the one who said that he can have a relapse if he pushes himself too much. You know what happened last time."


    Tye stopped smiling. "I know. But this time it''s different. And he wanted a shortcut so he would need to push himself."


    "I just hope you know what you are doing."


    The last time they used a real woman to help Kris practice, Kris almost killed her. It took Keso and two other bodyguards to hold Kris down. After that first time, Tye never mentioned the method again until he met Lena. It has been two years since that time and many things have changed since then.


    While the two of them were discussing what to do next, Kris was talking with Madam Li. He took off his shirt and continued to listen to his mom talk. He was still sweating from the match he had with Lena. He opened his window for some cool breeze. He did not think he would use so much energy to block such a small woman.


    "Kris?" Madam Li spoke through the phone.


    "Hmm?"


    "Are you even listening to me? What did I say?"


    "I''ll be back soon. I just needed a vacation, don''t you worry about me, Mah."


    "Worry? I am mad that you went on vacation without me. Next time you need to take me with you!"


    "But you said you don''t like going out when I bought you the private jet."


    "That was because you never had time to go out with me!"


    Kris smiled. He missed his mother. "I''ll be sure to take with me next time and from then on too."


    He talked a few more minutes with his mother. When he hung up, he smiled. It was nice to hear his mother''s voice. He really believed that he might be able to just give her a hug this year.


    He went to the bathroom for a shower. He had a deep cold shower to relax his body. He washed his body a few times, remembering how nasty Lena was to him. When he got out, he wrapped a towel around his waist. He could hear some noises but could not make out the sound of it. As he walked out of the bathroom door and open his bedroom door, he knew what it was. Collin and Tye were still outside his door.


    "Is that Lena singing?" Kris frown.


    "Yeah." Tye replied.


    "Tsk.. remember to get me some ear plugs next time you go out." Kris closed the door and went to get dressed.


    -----


    "We''ve come a long way from where we began.


    Oh I''ll tell you all about it when I see you again


    When I see you again."


    The music ended and Lena rested her head on Gary''s bed. She sighed. "Wake up.... wake up... Should I sing you a wake-up song instead?"


    Lena played her music again and sang a few more songs. It was not until James came in and told her lunch was ready. In all truth, they all just wanted her to stop. They are wondering if Lena was trying to wake up Gary or have him be sleeping forever.


    After lunch, Lena went back to Gary''s room but she stopped singing. She could tell that several of them were unsatisfied with her singing. She promised that she will sing to Gary when he wakes up, only he and Hazel appreciate her beautiful voice. Tye told her that they won''t be needing her again until tomorrow.


    Lena went back to her room to work on other things. She opened a table document and starting inputting all her charges that she was going to charge Kris. After she completed documenting the bill for today, she went on to look over the meeting notes from Diane.


    Diane reported that the LUX meeting went well. Shen Milli signed off most of the important paperwork already and the designs that Lena made were already approved. On another note, Andy Yang and Eva Wu want their wedding ring to be completed soon. Lena guessed that Andy was still going to marry Eva very soon regardless of anything.


    She grabbed her drawing table and started working on their wedding rings. Lena does not plan to hurt Andy, but if it is a small sacrifice she needs to make, then it was worth the risk. After all, her relationship with Andy is insignificant now. She would still care for him because of their past, but she had more important people by her sides now.


    Lena grinned. ''Just you wait, have your happiness now before I take it all away.''

 Chapter 115 - Comparing numbers

    After lunch, Kris and Tye went back to the small room to have a wrap-up session. This is where Tye would ask Kris about how he felt and how they plan to continue the process.


    Kris stood up and looked out the large windows as Tye sat comfortably on the sofa. "I am proud of you."


    Kris turned around and smiled. It was a genuine smile. Tye could see that Kris was expressing more and exploring more expressions too. They were not all his stubborn, edgy, and cold expressions.


    "How do you feel?" Tye asked.


    "I am happy."


    "You''re still only 1% of the way there."


    Kris walked to the sofa across of Tye and sat. "1%? I feel like I am 30% done already."


    "It may look like that but no. You respond to aggressive movements. Do you want Madam Li to punch you before you hug her?" Tye joked. "I guess it makes sense that you react to aggression more. It''s what you grew up with¡­Regardless, you won''t be 30% until you can interact normally with a female partner."


    "What''s the plan now?"


    "We will warm up tomorrow with the same idea and gradually start with the simple interactions again. Like patting, shaking hands, maybe try dancing."


    "And then?"


    "Then¡­ we switch up Lena. Just because you succeeded with her, does not mean you can with someone else. But we won''t get there until you pass everything else."


    "Ok." Kris understood what Tye was saying. Tye did not want to repeat the same events like last time.


    "This will be us working with you. However, there is something important that you need to do by yourself."


    Kris stared at Tye, waiting for him to finish. "You need to trust Lena more. And the first step is to open more about yourself to her."


    Kris frowned. Tye knew that Kris was not someone who liked to share his past with others. Out of their group of friends, only Tye know the full truth about Kris. Kris only shared with Tye because it was part of the recovery process. Tye had taken years of building trust and a relationship with Kris for him to be open about himself. The others only know a few things, some more than others. Madam Li, on the other hand, knows barely anything about the situation.


    Kris never talked to her about it. Kris'' father never mentioned it and when Madam Li try to get the answer herself, her conclusion was always a dead end. She only knew what they were able to tell her. In the end, she parted her ways with the Li family and her only goal was to be a mother for her son.


    "It''s not that easy." Kris responded.


    "I know. But when was it ever easy? Just get drunk and tell her everything...ahaha" Tye laughed but Kris glared at him. "What? I was just giving you a suggestion. Works on normal people."


    Tye turned around and grab something out. It was a small box. "I also got you something." He passed the box to Kris. Kris opened it and chuckled. "It''s earplugs. You might need it."


    Kris closed the box and put it on the sofa as he got up again. He looked out the window, thinking about something else again. Tye could tell what he was worried about.


    "Are you worried about what she would think of you? Why do you care?"


    Tye''s last question hit Kris. Why does he care? Lena was not close to him either, he does not care what she thinks. Since he was paying her to do this anyways, she would just be like Tye. Kris tried to convince himself.


    "I am not worried nor do I care what she thinks. I''ll tell her soon."


    ------


    Lena had been so busy with everything, she forgot about her report from Mike Zhao. She opened the email he sent and the attached lab results.


    "Hello Miss. Lena Shen,


    As promised, I have the results that you wanted. I have them attached and you can see them yourself. As an expert, I can tell you that the pill is 100% safe to use and perfectly effective. The only side effect is some minor pains for the initial intake. However, that was only a small risk compared to the final results. The pill must only be digested fully, not in any other way.


    I appreciate you approaching me and I will gladly help you again. Miss. Wu was interested in some other products I introduced to her, maybe you are too. We can discuss them sometime over lunch sometime? I hope to see Miss. Shen then.


    Mike Zhao


    Research Department Head"


    Lena had a broad smile. She did not even say who gave her the pill and this stupid dude already name his client. Lena was quite happy that Mike Zhao was a very stupid man. He can be a bit more useful for her still. Lena replied back that she will be back in City A on Monday and they can have lunch on Wednesday.


    Lena wanted to know what other products Mike Zhao have been selling to Eva. She closed out of her email and called Noah. She needed Noah to prepare a few things for her next meeting with Mike Zhao.


    She stood up and walked over to Gary. "If you don''t wake up soon, I will have all the fun without you."


    "You''re never fun to begin with."


    Lena looked up and saw that Kris had entered the room. "You always sneak in. Do you like to stare at what people do so much?"


    "You''re just too unconscious of your surroundings." Kris walked over and sat on Lena''s chair near the bed. "He just got shot three times and he''s still not awake."


    Lena gasped. Kris is saying like it was so rare for people to get shot three times and survive. "Are you saying Gary is weak? Well, how many times have you got shot in one sitting?"


    "Five.. and that happened a few times."


    "I''ll make sure to stay away from you after we eliminate our common enemy."


    Kris wanted to reply with ''What makes you think you can stay away from me?'' but he kept his mouth shut before saying something he should have not said.


    "Is that why you have so many scars on your body?" Lena asked.


    Kris looked up at Lena. She must have seen him from the last time he showered at her house. "Some of them are gunshot wounds."


    "Well, Gary only has one scar on his chest. And he has a full 6 pack abs while you only have 5." Lena defended Gary.

 Chapter 116 - A Cute Angel

    Gary did not work out much except for his abs. Lena once squealed that men with abs were the best so Gary worked hard to get them for her. She never saw them though but Lena noticed them when she washed him with the nurse. Lena had been making jokes about Gary but in fact, the babyface man was all grown up!


    Kris raised his brows. ''Is this woman mocking me? Who says that abs equal strength? Anyone can get abs but not everyone is as talented as me in combat skill.''


    "He will probably only have five abs if he does not wake up soon." Kris slowly stood up. "I am leaving."


    "See you at dinner."


    He walked to the door and left. He strode down the long hallway with a hand on his stomach. He was feeling his abs if he really only have fice. He does only have 5 abs...


    "Are you hungry?" Keso who was following Kris asked.


    "No. I am going to go work out."


    "I can go with you."


    They both headed outside. The mansion has a larger shed outside where most of the workout equipments were located. They were just several commonly used equipment that the workers in the mansion could use during their free time. Kris grabbed a floor mat and lay it on the ground by the weights. Keso stared at Kris, confused at what he was doing.


    "What kind of workout are we doing?" Keso questioned.


    "Abdominal exercises." Kris did not want to say ab workout so he used a fancier word. He went on the floor and started doing some crunches. He was already wearing very comfortable workout clothes.


    "Alright then." Keso grabbed a mat for himself and placed it down not to far away from Kris. Keso was not wearing comfortable clothes so he took off his top and went shirtless.


    Kris stopped his crunches and stared at Keso. Keso was casually doing his own thing but Kris saw it clearly. Keso had a 6 pack too! And they were big and strong like Keso was only made of bones and muscle. Keso slowly got down, ready to exercise with Kris.


    "You." Kris removed his mat before Keso sat down on it. "You, go away."


    "Huh?" Keso got up. "I want to exercise with you. I can give you a good workout routine"


    "I am good. I need some peace. Leave me alone."


    Kris continued to do crunches and Keso just walked away with a frown. What is wrong with Kris? Usually, their workout sessions were hardcore wrestling or close combat matches. They would run for miles or do heavy weight lifting. Why did he want to go backward and do some simple abdominal exercises.... It''s not like he needed them.


    Keso just left Kris and went back inside the mansion. He can go check on his own things then if Kris does not want his help.


    It was not until it was dark that Keso went back out to get Kris. He had been working out by himself for the past few hours. Tye told them that they should let Kris do whatever he wanted to, after all, he was on vacation.


    Kris went and took a quick shower before heading to the dining room. Everyone was already there. He noticed that the small table was switched to a larger table now so that it can fit everyone. He sat down on an empty spot and Collin gave Kris his rice.


    Lena sat down with James next to her. Kris and Keso sat opposite of them. Collin and Tye sat at the ends.


    Kris looked at the table and saw that there were several meat dishes on the table. It was good because he was starving. Kris dived in first, scooping a beef dish with several vegetables for flavoring, to his plate. He took a bite of rice and ate.


    "It''s good. You''re cooking has improved Tye." Kris took another large bite.


    "Good? I cooked that." Lena bragged. "Did you not hear us argue so much about what to have for dinner? What were you doing?"


    Lena offered to help cook dinner with Tye but they both argued so much about how to cook things and what to cook. Lena raised her voice so much that it was worse than her singing. They finally agreed to have their own stations and cook their own things.


    "I was sleeping."


    Keso coughed out his rice and covered his mouth. Kris glared at the man. "Sorry¡­ it was too good, I ate too fast." Keso replied.


    "Try this dish!" Lena scooped a dish with shrimp and scallops to Keso''s plate. "It''s my personal favorite."


    Kris eyes the hands scooping from the dish and gently placing it onto Keso''s plate. Keso smiled and went in for a bite. Kris quickly grabbed his plate and switched it with his own. "He''s allergic to seafood," Kris replied. He took a big bite into the food.


    Keso smiled died and he controlled his rage to smack Kris in the back so he would cough the food back out. He can feel his mouth drooling watching Kris eat.


    "Oh? Sorry, I did not know. Most of my dishes are seafood. I guess you can eat Tye''s dishes."


    "I am not allergic to anything!" Collin spoke. He needed to say something before Kris attack him too. Collin pat Keso''s back and quickly dove into the dishes.


    Keso looked at Tye but the doctor gently passed his vegetable dishes to Keso. He smiled and continued eating his dishes. Keso sulked, but ate his food, making sure to avoid the seafood dishes.


    As usual, Lena ate her fair share of food and was satisfied. To save her face, she also ate some vegetables. A good meal always brings a smile to her face. When Gary wakes up, they will have to go eat some good street food again.


    "Miss. Shen seems happy." Collin spoke after they all finished. Tye was clearing up the table with Keso.


    "Of course! I am a cute angel and I can feel that Gary is going to wake up soon!"


    "You''re not a cute angel. You''re a cute devil." Kris commented.


    "I can''t be a devil. You''re already the devil. And yes, I am cute regardless of whatever I am." Lena got up and left first. She needed to read Gary his goodnight story then go to bed too! Kris stood up too and followed Lena.


    Lena read Gary a short fantasy story. After she was done, she made sure the windows were closed and the curtains were down. She tucked Gary comfortable in and gave him a good night kiss on his forehead. "Good night."


    Kris stood outside the door as he listened to Lena read the story. Once she was finished, he slightly opened the door to see what she was up to. He saw her kissed Gary gently on the forehead. He closed the door and left before Lena came out.

 Chapter 117 - Heart stopped beating

    For the next two days, Lena''s morning consisted of washing Gary then spending a good hour wrestling and rolling on the floor with Kris. Before that, Lena would go spend the rest of the day with Gary, but Kris has been dragging her to go work out with him too. He kept saying that she was too weak and she needed to build her upper body strength. Tye also agreed that it would be a good thing for Lena.


    Kris was a less aggressive physical trainer than James, so that was one good thing. While Kris continued to nag Lena about her workout performance, James and Keso had a good time killing each other for practice. They went out to the forest for a shooting game.


    They would all train until lunch and after eating, Lena sat down with Kris and Collin to go over their next agendas. Lena complained about why she needed to sit down in the meeting when nothing relating to the meeting was affecting her. Kris insisted that it was good for her to listen in and give them any comments if needed. He made a comment that her gut feelings may be useful.


    Half of the time, Lena did not even know what they were talking about. Guns¡­ tigers and bears. It was like Kris and Collin were talking in code the whole time.


    It was Sunday the next day. Lena would have been here for almost a week now. She would be going home on Tuesday.


    Like any other day, Lena woke up early so she can wash Gary. The nurse was already in the room. It was a different nurse each time. The rotate the duties so all of them have the knowledge to care for Gary. There was already a warm bucket and a dry towel on the left side of the bed. However, what was new today was that Kris was also in the room. He was standing near the windows.


    "Why are you here?" Lena asked Kris as she walked and wet the towel.


    "Just curious to why you enjoy doing this every morning but whine about any other thing throughout the day."


    "This is not ENJOYING¡­ this is called caring." Lena stretched her arm out and held the towel to Kris. "Do you want to try?"


    "I might break all of his bones if I do."


    Lena looked at the nurse and the nurse just smiled back at her. Lena shrugged and went back to finishing up her side of the washing. Lena was slightly humming as she did her washing, making sure to gently rub the cloth over the wounds. She has been humming lately because no one likes her singing. Gary''s wounds have not healed as much as Lena''s wound. The recent heavy workout also helped Lena''s body feel more healthy and stronger.


    "Since we''re done here. I''ll be leaving first." The nurse spoke. She grabbed the water buckets to go and dump them in the bathroom.


    However, as she was walking, she tripped on one of the legs of a chair. There was an empty chair pushed aside to the window, where Kris was standing. Kris saw her fall but he reacted by moving further away from her. She dropped the bucket of water on her right arm and with her own instinct, grabbed onto Kris'' arm, who was trying to back away.


    She held tight to Kris'' arm for support and that helped her fall down slowly. Kris stumbled a bit down as the nurse fell to her knees. The water bucket plopped onto the hardwood floor, pouring out its content.


    Lena was going to say "Are you alright?" but what she noticed first was the reaction from Kris. In that quick moment of touch, Kris'' heart stopped beating. His left arm, that was loose, starting shaking and he quickly flung the nurse''s grip from his other arm. His heart started beating again but in an uncontrollable rage.


    "I am so sorry Mr. Li!" The nurse quickly stood up and lower her heard.


    "Jane!" Lena called out to the nurse. The nurse had her head down so she did not see that Kris was going to punch her. However, Lena anticipated that move coming. Lena quickly ran in front of the nurse and blocked the strong punch with both of her hands.


    Lena was able to block that one movement but she was too slow to react to Kris'' left hand. In an impulse, Lena pushed the nurse back a bit and took the slap right across her right cheek. Kris took a deep inhale and realized who he had just hit. Again, his heart stopped beating, but for a different reason this time.


    He brought his left arm back up to touch Lena on the spot he hit her but she closed her eyes and flinched. There was a sharp pain in his heart and he let his arm down. Lena opened her eyes after nothing happened.


    "Out!" She yelled the nurse who quickly ran out the door while Keso and James entered the room. They heard a few commotions.


    Kris instantly fell to the ground on his knees. He was having trouble breathing. He held his weight with his right arm and put his left arm on his aching heart. He was taking short breaths. Lena bent down with him, ignoring the puddle on the floor.


    "Breath slowly. Take deep breaths."


    However, it seems like her words were not registering into his head. She looked up to James and Keso.


    "I''ll go get the doctor." James spoke and patted Keso on the shoulder. It was a signal to say that since he was going to leave, Lena better be alright when he returns. Keso responded with a nod.


    Keso went to help Lena support Kris up to the chair that was by the window.


    "Hold on." Lena went to the side of Gary''s bed and grab out the oxygen tank. She did not know exactly how it worked but she has seen it used several times because her grandfather used one. She brought the mask to Kris'' face but he grabbed her arm to stop her. He did not want that.


    "You better take it or I will charge you an entire year of income for slapping me."


    At that response, Kris grabbed the mask out of Lena''s hand and put it onto his own face. He took a deep breath in and out. Lena made sure that the oxygen tank was on.

 Chapter 118 - Not hungry

    He did not take the mask because she threatened him with money, but because she reminded him that it was him that hit her. He continued to hold the breathing mask to his face but looked at Lena. Her left cheek was red. Of course, it was red, he didn''t even hold back his strength.


    "Does it hurt?" Kris removed the mask away from his mouth.


    Lena touched her cheek. OBVIOUSLY, IT HURTS! But she was worried about Kris and Jane that she did not really felt the pain until Kris asked. "No. I got shot before so this is nothing."


    Kris put the mask down now that he was breathing fine. He looked out to the door that was closed. "How long are you going to hide? Your patient would have been dead already if it takes you that long to respond."


    Tye opened the door and smiled. He scratched his head. "Hah.. I was just waiting to make sure the coast was clear."


    Tye arrived earlier but he dare not interfere with such a sweet moment! He was not like Collin. Tye walked up to Kris with his doctor bag but Kris walked to him instead.


    "We''ll do it in another room." With that, Kris left and Tye followed.


    Keso apologized to Lena and head out as James came back. James came back with an ice pack and he handed it to Lena. Lena thanked him. She looked at Gary and then on the wet floor. Lena told James to go get a mop so she could clean up the area.


    Tye followed Kris to their normal talking room. Kris sat on the sofa and Tye went and do his normal routine. He checked Kris'' pulse and blood pressure.


    "You need to relax your arm so I can get a correct reading." Tye explained.


    Kris''s arm was tense because he was angry. He had been doing well with Lena the past three days for the sessions but just one touch from another woman, and it made him feel like nothing has changed. Tye could feel what Kris was thinking. He had told Kris that if he continues to perform well, in the next few days they can try with another woman.


    However, with the event from today, their plans may be delayed. Tye can tell that Kris was making lots of progress but there was something strong emotionally inside him that he needs to break out of.


    "You''re fine. We''ll skip the session today."


    Tye saw that Keso entered the room with some gloves. He tossed Kris a pair and put on his own. "Don''t kill each other, please. I don''t have any more materials to clean up the blood." Tye pointed out before he left.


    He saw Lena just outside the door. Lena walked up to Tye. "Is he alright?" She was holding an ice pack to her cheek.


    "He''s fine. Are you okay?"


    "I am alright." Lena smiled. "I''ll go back and stay with Gary then."


    Lena went back to check on Gary. She removed the ice pack from her face and placed it on the table. She looked at Gary and was concerned about what will happen after he wakes up. Lena was always a cheerful and more uptight woman and that made her move passed her trauma. She continues to strive to be stronger.


    However, Gary was a sweet man. His life was always gentle and his life was more peaceful. Lena does not know how Gary will go through the trauma, but she knows that she will be with him. Lena hoped that Gary would not be as bad as Kris.


    Lena held Gary''s hand and squeezed it a bit. "We''ll be stronger together."


    Lena spent the rest of the day mostly alone. She would see everyone again when they had lunch, but Kris was not there. Again, at dinner, he was also no there. They set his plate for him, but he never showed up.


    "Kris is in the reading room." Tye spoke. He noticed that Lena kept looking at the empty seat the entire time they were having dinner.


    "Has he eaten yet?" Lena asked.


    "I don''t know. I brought him lunch but last time I checked, they were still untouched. Don''t worry though, he''s always like this. I mean¡­ that he doesn''t eat much anyways. Either it works or something else."


    Since Lena was lazy today, she stayed and cleaned up the table. James helped her with the dishes. She opened the fridge and see that it was fully stocked. Tye made sure the fridge was extra stocked because he was feeding a whole pack of hungry teenage boys. Lena was one of them, she ate like one.


    Lena took out a piece of pork and some vegetables.


    "Are you still hungry?" James asked.


    "No. But I am going to make something for Kris. You can rest, I''ll be fine."


    James finished washing the dishes and went first. He can go take a shower. He knows that Lena knows how to cook. Lena carefully cooked pork with vegetables, and make a stir fry for Kris. She scooped the rice onto the plate and dishes a portion of the food to the plate. She put it on a tray and went to the reading room.


    She knocked on the door but there was no response. She opened it slowly with one hand, the other holding the tray. Lena noticed that Kris had was hitting a punching bag. Why is there a punching bag in the reading room? Lena walked in.


    "I am not hungry." Kris continued to punch the bag without taking his eyes off it.


    Lena placed the tray on the table and sat down. "You sure?" She opened the plate and Kris could see the juicy pork and smell the strong flavor of it. Tye brought in some fried vegetables and fish for him during lunch but he did not want to eat that.


    Lena looked at the plate. She only took a bite before to taste it, but looking at it now, it looked so good. She just had dinner, but more would not hurt. She grabbed the spoon and scoop up some rice and a juicy piece of pork. She bent down to take a bit.


    Kris quickly walked over and grabbed her hand. "What are you doing?"


    Lena looked at her hands that Kris grabbed. "Eating. You said you were not hungry."


    "I am hungry now." He guided her hand to turn the spoon toward him and ate it.

 Chapter 119 - Drink with me!

    Kris let go of her hand and swallowed. "It''s good."


    Lena put the spoon on the plate. Kris grabbed it and started eating. Lena stood up from her seat.


    "Where are you going?"


    "To eat."


    "Can you get me a glass of water too?"


    Lena was going to complain about not being his servant but she nodded. He must be tired from all that punching. She went back to the kitchen and served the rest of the stirfry onto a small plate for her. She grabbed a glass cup and filled it up. As she walked back to the reading room, she stopped to check on Gary. She saw that James was in the room.


    She closed the door and walked to the reading room. She placed the cup down on the table and ate her own food. It was so good. Tye must only buy premium meat. Kris finished his plate first and drink all the water. He looked at Lena as she slowly ate her food.


    He could see the greasy oil on her lips, making it look moist. He cleared his throat and got up. He headed to the cupboard and pulled out a glass of wine. "You want some?" He asked.


    Lena looked up and saw that he was holding a very expensive bottle of wine. Even though her family owned a prestigious wine company, it does not mean she gets to spoil herself with expensive wine every day. She also had not been drinking since she got discharged from the hospital. Her wound was healed so drinking would be alright.


    "Sure."


    Kris walked over and poured a glass for her and then him next. He took a small sip and went back to punching. Lena finished the food in her mouth and took a sip of the wine. Her eyes sparkled.


    ''It has been a very long time, my friend!'' Lena smiled to herself. She took another big gulp and finished the whole glass as she ate her food. She glanced up to see that Kris was still doing his own thing so she poured another glass for herself. ''Don''t mind me, just chilling here.''


    When Kris went back to punching the bag, he had forgotten that Lena was in the room. His focus was on removing the stress from inside of him. His arms were tired from doing this all day but he kept going. Tiredness was just something small. His forehead was sweating. He stopped punching and used his arm to wipe his sweat. Turning his face slightly, he saw Lena still at the sofa.


    Lena saw that someone was staring at her. She looked up and smiled innocently at Kris. Kris raised his brows. Lena''s face was a bit flushed. She would never give him a smile like that unless she was doing something bad. He looked at the table and saw that her glass was empty and so was his.


    He took off his gloves and walked over. "How much did you drink?" He picked up the bottle and noticed that it was empty.


    "Heh¡­ Sorry, got carried away. But don''t worry, I have a good alcohol tolerance!" Lena gave Kris a thumbs up. Kris picked up his glass and went back to the cupboard. He opened a new bottle, one that was even more expensive than the first one. He poured it into his glass and took a sip. He turned around and Lena''s eye was strictly staring at him.


    ''Why is she staring at me?'' Kris put the bottle back into the cupboard and noticed that Lena''s eye was on the bottle, not him. "You want it?"


    "Can I?" Lena looked at Kris instead of the bottle he was holding.


    "You can have another glass." Kris walked over to Lena but she started sniffling. He stopped and was confused. "Why are you crying?" He felt a similar sharp pain from his chest.


    "I am not crying! These are happy tears¡­ HAPPY tears!" Lena sniffled and wiped her happy tears. "Hazel always drink more than me so she steals all the alcohol and Gary can never buy expensive wine. This is the first time someone has treated me so well for alcohol."


    Kris'' heart smiled but his face was still the same. He placed the bottle on the table and drank his entire glass of wine. "You can have all of it. It''s not mine anyway, it is Tye''s." Kris could tell that the alcohol was getting to her.


    "I can''t have all of it. It''s not good." Lena spoke but she poured her glass to the fullest.


    "It''s fine. As long as you don''t throw up. James or Keso can carry you back to your room. And there are nurses here if you start choking on your puke."


    "Ok." Lena quickly drank down all the wine in her glass. She poured herself another glass and raised it. "Drink with me!"


    Kris sat down next to her and poured himself another glass. He took a sip and placed his glass on the table. It looked like he was a person who drank a lot but he knows that drinking does not help him with his problem. He lay back on the sofa and stared at Lena as she played with her glass of wine and hummed.


    Lena knew that she was not drunk yet. She could probably go for a few more bottles before she is fully drunk. "Are you going to fire her?" Lena questioned Kris.


    Her. Lena was referring to Jane. "No." Kris replied.


    Lena looked at Kris wide-eyed. "But didn''t you almost killed me for doing the same thing?!"


    "Hers was an accident. Yours was not."


    "The bite was self-defense."


    "Not the kiss though."


    Lena gasped. How can he bring up such an embarrassing memory?! "That was a gift!"


    Kris took another sip from his glass of wine and gave Lena a sarcastic "Mhmm¡­"


    Lena finished her glass and poured another. But before drinking that she lay back on the soft sofa. "You know... that was one of the best days of my life."


    The kiss?! That was Kris'' first reaction to Lena''s comment, but she continued.


    "When Andy pushed me down... everyone stared at me like some type of useless trash. And when I stood up from the dirty floor, I was a new person. I realized how much of idiot I must have been, chasing a man who could not even see me. Everyone was expecting me to fall down again and cry."


    Lena drank and smiled. "But, you were the only one in the crowd who did not give me that nasty look. It looked like you were telling me to slap that son of b***h. In all honesty, I probably only got the guts to do it because of you.. hahaha..." Lena laughed. "So thanks! It was good to slap someone like him."

 Chapter 120 - Kris Story

    "And then there is Gary. This whole self-realization made me be more aware of those who had always care for me."


    Kris refilled Lena''s glass for her. "Do you like him?" He was finally able to ask the question that was somehow itching in the back of his brain the last few days.


    "Of course!" Kris'' heart stopped beating again. "He''s my bestest friend! He will be my best man when I get married."


    Kris'' heart started pumping blood again. Lena has been giving him heart attack all day! Kris needs to ask Tye for some heart medicine.


    "And then Hazel can be my bridesmaid. And don''t tell me I cannot have a best man and bridesmaid. I am the bride so I can have whatever I want!"


    Kris laughed at her comment. Lena started humming and sipping from her glass again. Kris looked at his glass but did not drink from it.


    "I was a sick child." Kris finally spoke and Lena stopped humming. She looked at him. This was the first time he was saying something personal about himself.


    "Not born sick, but after my mom got into the accident." Kris paused, trying to use the correct words. "The replacement for my mom made me sick."


    "So the rumored Li mistress is real?" Tye said yes to her question before but now Kris just confirmed it.


    "I wouldn''t call her a mistress exactly. My dad did not want her. It was my grandparents that pushed my dad to take her in." Kris grabbed his glass of wine and went to stand by the window. It was dark outside, and the night sky was full of stars. "The Li family is cursed. I don''t know the story exactly, but the Li family was cursed to only have one son and no other children. The son must only marry once and his son will carry on the curse. For long generations now, there has only been one son.


    My ancestors built an empire to protect the male heir so that he would never die and continue the line. My grandfather forced my father and my mom together because she had royal bloodline. Having connection to the Wang family was important for my grandfather. Not only that, he heard that the Wang family can break their curse. Even though the marriage was arranged, my parents did love each other.


    But when my mother was in a coma, my grandfather forced my father to take in another woman. He went with the excuse that I needed a mother. But in his mind, he believed that the curse was already gone. My father had to take care of the empire so for him, she was just a nanny."


    Kris sat on the edge of the window and looked back at Lena who has her eyes closed on the soda. "Are you asleep?"


    She opened her eyes. "No. I''m listening. Continue."


    Kris took a sip of wine. He remembered when Tye told him to get drunk and just tell her everything. He guessed that is what he was doing now but Lena was the one who was getting drunk. He noticed that the bottle was already empty. He went to the cabinet and grabbed two more out for her. Maybe she will forget all of this tomorrow morning. He went back and sat on the window edge.


    "For her though, she wanted to get into his bed. She had the support of my grandfather, so she used all kinds of tricks. But my father barely gave her an eye. So she went for me instead, a little boy. She took me to the park that day. I could remember it clearly still. She stabbed me on my stomach and told my father that we got attacked. That made my father took a week off work and stayed with us."


    "Why did you not tell your dad the truth?"


    "I was little. She told me that if I did she would kill me mother. And I know it was just not a taunt, she had tried before."


    "So what happened next?"


    "Her trick only worked for awhile before my father went back to work. She knew that using me was working so she continued to keep my wound opened. It got infected many times. Everyone around the house was her people. The doctors, the workers, the guards. She used other things to make me sick even after my wound healed. I don''t remember how long it went for, I stopped feeling the pain."


    Kris turned around again and looked out the window. "On my eight birthday, I killed her." Kris eyes were dark, like he had no emotions from that at all. "My father was drinking that day and I knew she did something with his drink. When she was going to his room, I hit her with a vase and pushed her down the stairs. She died¡­ along with the bastard child she had with the guard."


    Kris tuned around to face Lena and laughed. "Do you think I am a monster? An eight-year old who killed someone with no single remorse?"


    Lena giggled. Kris could tell that she was definitely drunk now. The two new bottles he gave her was opened and only one was left half empty.


    "No.." She giggled in her high pitch voice. Lena stared at Kris. "You probably went to cry to your mommyyyy." Even in her drunk and unstable state, she could feel that Kris has calmed a bit from before when he was looking out the window. "If you cried, then you can still feel." She spoke and took the bottle and drank directly from it. "NEXT! I want more story time!"


    Kris walked to Lena and grabbed the bottle from her. He chugged the rest of it down and slammed the bottle on the table. "My father did not care about the woman but only worried about the son he had neglected to take care because he spent most of his time on the company and caring for his wife. He wanted to send me abroad but my grandfather interfered again. For my grandfather, I was a perfect grandchild. A person who cannot feel pain nor remorse for others. A perfect tool and shield for the Li family and our enemies.


    He took me away from my father. Put me into the world that made me who I am mostly today, a cold heartless monster." Kris did not really want to go into more details about what he did in the underworld. "When my mom woke up, she stared at her sweet son who was like a possessed devil, who only know how to kill. I recognized that she was my mom, but I don''t even know what that word was anymore. She cried and try to hug me and instead, i pointed a gun to her head."


    Kris eyes got watery but he closed his eyes and just took a deep breath. "She used her Wang family power to steal me back from my grandfather. Took me all over the world to help me."


    Lena put her legs to the sofa and hugged it. "Did your grand daddy steal you back?"


    "Heh..no." Kris raised up his lips. Lena could feel the chill in the room so she cuddled herself in. "I went back to him instead a few years later and pulled a gun to his head instead. By that point, the old man knew that his perfect grandson was not perfect, but a devil. A devil that he personally raised and now can''t control. I took his position in the underworld, and left the old man with nothing but his name."

 Chapter 121 - Can I touch?

    "Did your mom hate your dad?" Lena asked as she relaxed her head on her knees.


    "My mom hated the Li family, but not my dad. Her love for him was bigger than the hate she had for him and his family. My father was never the perfect husband nor father, but his love for us was genuine. She never went and visit my grandparents, only once a year for my grandmother''s birthday. After all, she is the Madam Li and she needs to hold her title."


    There was a long pause of silence before Lena started hiccuping. But even so, both of them said nothing and just listened to Lena''s soft hiccups. Kris could see her long dark hair, reflecting off the moon light.


    When Lena first came in the room to bring him dinner, the sun was still up. With the windows wide opened, he didn''t turn on any lights. He realized now that the both of them were sitting in the dark room and the only source of light was coming from outside.


    "I was a bad girl too¡­" Lena held her breath in for a long time to get rid of the hiccups. She took a deep breath. "In high school, there was girl who was Andy''s partner for a reading project. In the past, I made sure all of his partners were men but somehow this one slipped through. I threatened and bully the girl to the extent she committed suicide, but she didn''t die."


    Lena coughed and then started crying. "Wahhh¡­ I was a good girl... a very good girl in my past life and now I live like this! The gods hate me. I only ask for a handsome second lead to love me. It''s not so hard to ask for that! Is it because I asked for Gary to wake up first? Wahhh.. I will single for life!"


    Kris was confused about Lena''s rambling. He let her continue though, knowing that the girl was fully out of her mind. Her hiccups came back and she stopped crying. "This is pretty crying okay? You have not seen ugly crying yet!" Lena wiped her tears and Kris smiled at the comment.


    Again there was a long silence. Lena kept mumbling to herself while Kris just stared out the window. It was almost a full moon tonight. The night was very bright. He felt more relieved talking to Lena although he does not know if she will remember this tomorrow. Will he have to tell her again?


    "Can I see it?" Lena looked at Kris, who turned to look at her.


    "Huh?"


    Lena and Kris were sitting on the same sofa. Lena went on all fours and crawled on the sofa to Kris. "I want to see it." She went and grabbed Kris'' shirt and slightly pulled it up before Kris stopped her.


    "What are you doing?"


    "I want to see it. The scar."


    The scar. For a while there, Kris was very concerned about what she wanted to see. Lena sat back up, sitting her butt on her legs, like a puppy waiting for its master to pet it.


    Kris sighed. He stood up and took off his shirt. He pointed to the scar on his lower left abdomen. "It used to be smaller, but I got stabbed here once again later."


    Lena brought her head closer to get a good stare at the scar. She hiccuped. "It''s f**ken ugly!" Kris stared down her head. Lena raised her arm and put her hand in front of the scar. "Can I touch?"


    Without even approving, Lena touched it. First, she poked on it like it was some exotic species, then she gently placed her entire hand on it. Kris could feel her warm hand on his cold body. It sent a warm tingle throughout his body.


    "Does it hurt?" Lena asked, still rubbing her hand on the scar.


    "No. Pain is just an emotion in the brain. I might feel it at first, but I already learned how to avoid the pain, hiding it away."


    Lena stood up, standing in front of Kris. "Sorry I was rude. You can see mine too."


    "What? I don''t want --"


    Lena lifted her shirt up a bit but Kris grabbed her hands to stop and pulled the shirt back down. "I don''t need to see it."


    "But, mine''s pretty. You need to see it!"


    "I really don''t want to see it."


    "Are you calling it ugly too?! No it''s pretty, I promise!"


    "Ugh¡­" Kris was trying to respect her. He quickly flipped the bottom of her shirt up and back down. "I saw it. Done." He did not even see it but hopefully, that will make Lena happy.


    "See? It''s pretty."


    "Yeah.. it''s pretty." Kris played along.


    Lena smiled at him. She pointed her finger up to Kris'' chest and touched it. "What this scar?"


    "A gunshot."


    "How did you get it?" She was still poking it.


    "Infiltrating a Russian enemy. It was the bullet I blocked for Keso."


    "Ok.. how about this one?"


    Lena continued to point to all of the scars that Kris had on his front and back. He told her how he got every single one of them. Kris was getting tired from all the talking though. Lena went a full 360 degree around him. Now, she was facing his front again where she started. She pointed her finger back on the first gunshot scar.


    "I like this one the most. I will call it Russo. Or should I call it Keso after Keso? NO.... I like Russo better. Hello, Russo!" Lena bent her head down and smacked her lips on the scar. She gave it a long kiss and lifted her head back up. Kris stood still like a robot. Lena smiled up to the man and his shocked face. "Mom says that kissing it will make it ALLLL better." She patted the spot she kissed on.


    "Hmm?" Kris did not hear what she said. He was focused on her luscious lips that just left his bare chest. Her cheeks were still flushed pink and her eyes sparkled like the night sky. He kept his eyes on her without blinking.


    "Mom says that kissing will make it all better."


    "Is that so?"


    "Yes, I ---"


    Kris stretched out his long arms and put his hand on the back of Lena''s head. He pushed his hand toward him and bent down to kiss her.

 Chapter 122 - I am going to kill you

    Every time Kris dreamt about the scene of him and Lena, he always wakes up as she brought her lips to his. See her now the moonlight, it felt like a dream. Just once, he wants to wake up with a complete dream.


    He closed his eyes as her lips touched his. He had never done this before, but just a light touch of their lips, he was feeling all better. He stepped closer to her and put his other hand on her waist. After he felt like he could not hold his breath anymore, he slowly released Lena. he let go of his hand on her waist and on the back of her head.


    Lena''s eye was opened and she looked at Kris. Kris was expecting her to be angry or something but she was not. Lena blinked and then smiled. Kris was scared a bit there, because it was not her kind smile, it was the smile she uses when she wants to do something bad.


    "Ah.. Lena I''m Sor--"


    Lena placed both of her hands on each side of Kris'' cheeks. "Little boy, I will teach you."


    Before Kris could register what she said, Lena held his face down to hers. She captured his lips and ravished it right away. She put her unsatisfied lips back on his. Lena offered no room for Kris to breath.


    This time, Kris had his eyes opened. Lena was not supposed to react this way¡­ was she not? Kris for sure knew that he was a bit impulsive before. He knew that he was not supposed to take advantage of a woman who was intoxicated. But, isn''t she taking advantage of him instead?


    Lena was only tasting his lips. She released her right hand from his face and this allowed Kris to take a quick breath. He thought that Lena was stopping but she put her hands on the back of his necked and pulled him closer to continue. She nibbled on his bottom lip after realizing the man was out of breath.


    Kris felt his legs went weak. What was this woman doing to him?! It felt really good though, he was not going to deny it. It was definitely on a different level when he kissed her.


    Still nibbling on his lip, Lena pushed Kris to sit down on the sofa by forcing her hands on his shoulder. He sat down and Lena bent her legs around him and sat on his thighs. She finally moved her lips away from him, giving him an open space to breathe.


    "That was practice, let''s do it for real now." Lena smiled at the man.


    PRACTICE?! Kris does not want to continue, it was very painful for him right now. The type of pain that he had not yet mastered to hide away. "Lena, I don''t think we shou---"


    Lena dived in for a quick taste and released him again. She smacked her lips in approval. She still had her face very close to his. "You''re not supposed to be talking when the teacher is teaching."


    Before Kris could reply, Lena wet her lips and kissed him again. She had her left hand on his face and right hand on his bare chest. She started softly, just massaging his lips. Knowing that Kris does not last long, she let go. When he took a breath, she dived in deeper this time with a smirk. She stuck her tongue in and kissed him deeply.


    Kris''s heart was beating like crazy and the tips of his ears were turning red. Before he was as cold as the North Pole, but now, he was as warm as the sun. Lena continued to taste him, exploring a taste she had not known before.


    Kris could taste the wine from her. She let out a small moan and it turned his crazy. He finally stopped resisting the kiss. He put his hands on her waist and copied her. Their tongues twirled around each other, tasting every last drop of the wine in their mouths. Seeing that the man below her was now responding, Lena did not dare to let him win. She was the teacher!


    She lifted her butt from his legs to give her a higher position above him. She moved her left hand from his side chin and gave his hair a small tug. Kris let out a small groan and it excited her even more!


    She turned her head so she could kiss him in a different position. After another cat and mouse chase between their tongues, Lena released him. She let go with an "ah" and looked up to the ceiling. She gave Kris a hard slap on the side on his left shoulder. "Again!"


    Lena wrapped both of her arms around Kris''s neck and pulled him down as she sat back on his legs. She leaned herself back, as Kris leaned more forward. He tightly wrapped his arms around her waist so she does not fall over. Lena was giving Kris the height advantage this round.


    Like last time, they both started with a soft massage of their lips before tackling the insides of each other. Having just experienced it once, Kris took full control this time, making sure he was dominant. He twirled his tongue inside her mouth, making sure to explore every corner of it. He did not care about how much they were mixing their saliva together. It was not like this was the first time.


    He moved his left hand up to Lena''s neck, and like her, pulled her hair softly. This time it was Lena''s turn to moan from the small pain. They kissed a while longer before Lena pushed Kris away from her because she needed to breathe. She wiped the excess saliva from the kiss with her hands and looked at Kris.


    Kris could tell that she was not even 50% satisfied. How can she have so much energy?! Lena put her hands on Kris'' shoulder to go for another round, but Kris grabbed her arm and placed it on her sides and lock it there. He used his right hand to pull Lena''s head to his right shoulder. She tried to lift up, but Kris pressed down hard.


    "Stop." Kris closed his eyes. "You''re really going to kill me or I am going to kill you."


    Lena was being stubborn. She licked his shoulder and Kris shuddered. "That''s not going to work, you used that before."


    Lena did not talk back. She stood still on her spot. Her body was still straddled on top of Kris. After a few minutes of silent, Kris could feel his shoulder get wet. Then he heard the small weeps and sniffles coming from Lena. He chuckled.


    "Fake crying won''t work too."


    Lena quickly stopped once she was found out. She succumbed to her defeat and buried her head on his neck, resting it on his broad shoulders and breathing in his manly scent.

 Chapter 123 - Vegetable Man

    Lena stopped moving after a few minutes. Kris still kept his guard up and put his hold on her, making sure she was not up to one of her sneaky tricks again. After ten minutes, he loosened them a bit but was still holding her down. He closed his eyes and tried to relax. His little brother does not like being squeezed at all from the weight.


    He concentrated on something else for another twenty minutes before opening his eyes. He could hear Lena''s soft breathing and was sure she was asleep. He carefully lifted her off him and laid her on the sofa. He could feel his shoulder being wet. He did not know if it was her fake tears from before or her drool from sleeping.


    He grabbed a napkin from the table and wiped it dry. He tossed it in the trash can. He looked down his bare chest and at the scar she called ugly. Kris put his hand over the bullet scar and laughed. "Russo¡­"


    He picked up his shirt from the sofa and put it on. He finally turned on the lamp next to the sofa. Kris had a good look at Lena, who was peacefully sleeping on the sofa like everything was perfect. He walked over to the windows and closed it. He did a quick stretch of his arms and legs before picking up Lena from the sofa.


    He gently carried her princess style. He looked at the clock and it was 1 a.m. Everyone should be asleep by now. He opened the door and walked out. He did not care about the lamp he left on. He climbed up the stairs and into Lena''s room. Kris gently laid her on the bed and pulled up the blanket for her.


    He walked away but heard her mumbled something. He thought he heard her say "Why do you know?" He sat on the side of her bed and leaned in to hear what she was saying.


    Lena was breathing evenly then mumbled again. "Gary."


    Kris lift up his face and stared at Lena. "Even in your sleep, you still think about him, huh.." He held out his hand and touched the cheek he hit her this morning. He scowled. ''I am getting jealous over a vegetable man.''


    He stood up, grabbed the blanket and tossed it on the floor. She does not deserve this. He walked out and opened the door but the door opened first. Kris was staring at Tye.


    Kris gave Tye a deadly stare. Why was Tye still awake and opening Lena''s door in the middle of the night? On the other hand, Tye was thinking the exact same thing to Kris. Why is Kris in Lena''s room in the middle of the night?


    Tye cleared his throat. "Sorry, is Lena there?"


    "She''s dead. Drank too much." Kris moved aside so Tye could see Lena sleeping on the bed. But what caught Tye''s eye was the blanket on the ground. He glanced at Kris and could see that his shirt was very wrinkled.


    "What are you here for?" Kris interrupted Tye''s thought.


    "Oh.. I.." Tye tried to not stare at Kris but it was one of those moments where he just kept staring at him. Tye finally blinked his way out. "He awake, Gary is."


    Tye could feel a deep cold breeze on his back. He quickly turned around but it was just a dark creepy hallway. He turned back and see that Kris was not in a good mood. "I.. uh.. Go first. Just wanted to tell Lena but she''s asleep."


    "Hold on. She stinks. Have one of the female nurses to change her clothes. I''ll go check on Gary."


    Kris walked out first and left Tye at the door. He quickly went to check on the vegetable man. he could see the light emitting from the cracks of the door. When he opened it, he saw that everyone was there. James looked up and saw that Kris was alone.


    "Where is Lena?"


    "She''s asleep." Kris replied.


    "Should we not wake her up? She might be mad for missing this."


    "She''s drunk dead asleep."


    James stared at Kris... wondering why his lady boss was drunk. But he let it slide. He knew that Lena had not had a drink for the longest and she must be going through a lot too.


    Kris could feel the stare from James. "She''s fine. A nurse should be cleaning her up." Kris walked over to look at Gary. Gary was awake but unresponsive. "What''s wrong with him?"


    "He woke up in unfamiliar place. He panicked a bit, mumbled some nonsense before calling for Lena. The nurse sedated him for now. Nothing too strong but just so he could calm down." James explained.


    James knew that Lena was in the reading room with Kris so he stayed and watch Gary for her. He went out for night walk. The twilight tonight was pretty and the area around the mansion was also nice. When he came back, there was already a few nurses and Tye in the room. They were trying to hold Gary down on his bed as he panicked. James saw the situation and went to help. He guessed that Gary finally say someone he knew so he relaxed a bit. However, the nurse still gave Gary a small sedetive.


    James held gary down and told Gary that he was safe, and so was Lena. Tye told James to stay with Gary so he feels secure and that Tye would go find Lena instead.


    ----


    Kris went closer to the bed to look at Gary. He saw Gary glanced up to him. Kris once woke up in an unfamilar placed and went crazy. It was during the time his mother took him away. He remembered how estatic he was. He backed away. Lena said they were just best friends, but could they be more?


    Tye walked into the room with some snacks. He passed them to James. James said that he will stay with Gary. Since Lena was drunk asleep, she would not wake up until late the next morning. Tye was also going to stay up and watch Gary. He told everyone that they can go to sleep. They were not needed here.


    Kris head up the stairs. Just as he reached the top, he noticed that the nursed just got out of Lena''s room. It was the nurse from this morning. Her name was Jane... Jane saw Kris and lowered her head.


    "She''s good?"


    "I changed her clothes and wiped her down a bit."


    "Good work." Kris walked pass her but stopped and turned back. "By any chance, was she still talking in her sleep?"


    Jane looked up. ''How did Kris know?'' Kris could tell from Jane''s reaction that Lena was still mumbling stuff.


    "What did she say?"


    "She--" Jane did not know if she should tell Kris or not. She paused but then decided not to hide it. After all, she still has her job even though she made a mistake this morning. "She kept calling a man''s name."


    "Heh.." Kris let out a laugh and rolled his eyes. "Gary again.."


    Jane felt like Kris was not in a good mood. Kris turned around and continued to walk. "No.. She said Russo."


    "What did she said exactly?"


    Jane cleared her throat because she can feel Kris staring at her again. She put her head down. "She said... I like you the most, Russo." Jane kept her hands together. "She said it a few times actually."


    Kris burst into a laugh. "Ok, thanks. Good night." He turned around again and walked to his room.

 Chapter 124 - What happened yesterday

    Kris had a large grin on his face. Jane did not know if a grin for Kris was a good thing or not. She walked back down the stairs and Tye was there.


    "Hello, Dr. Tye."


    "What did you say to him? I can hear him laugh from all the way downstairs."


    "I¡­" Jane does not know if she should tell Tye. Would Tye get weird too? "I just told him that he should not let Miss. Shen drink too much. If you excuse me, I''ll leave first."


    "Goodnight." Jane left and Tye scratched his head. "I don''t find anything funny from that at all."


    Tye walked to Kris'' room and knocked on the door. He opened the door. Kris was getting to go and take a shower. Kris looked to see Tye carrying something.


    "What''s that?"


    "Your stronger sleep medicine that you requested."


    "Place it there." Kris took off his shirt.


    Tye placed the medicine on the table next to the bed. "Did you do something to her?"


    Her. Tye was referring to Lena. Kris tossed his shirt on his bed. "Do something to her? You should ask what she did to me!" Kris'' face blushed.


    "What did she do to you?"


    "She--" Kris paused. "Nothing. She just puked a bit on me. I have to go take a shower, I feel dirty."


    "You sure? Your face is red, are you getting sick?" Tye asked out of concern.


    "No! I am angry!"


    Kris grabbed his towel and went to the bathroom. Tye looked at the shirt that Kris tossed on the bed. Tye slowly picked up the shirt with his two fingers and smelled it.


    "Ugh.. smells like sweat." He tossed it into the laundry basket and left.


    Kris turned on the cold shower and let the run over his body. He closed his eyes and enjoy the cold touch on his warm body. He opened his eyes and touched his lips.


    "Argh.." He closed his eyes again and pound his head on the shower wall. "I am crazy."


    He stayed in the shower for a long time before he washed his body and hair. He got out, dried himself and put on some pajama pants. Kris does not like wearing a shirt to sleep. He dried more of his hair and tossed the tower over the hanger. He walked to his bed and tucked himself in. He went to close the light on the bedside table. He saw the bottle of medicine that Tye gave him.


    Kris picked it up and looked at it. He smiled. " I don''t need this anymore." He opened the drawer on the table and tossed the medicine in it. He closed it and rolled over to go to sleep.


    -----


    It was bright and sunny the next morning. Lena was just waking up from her deep sleep. She could feel the hot rays of sunlight, warming up her face. She yawned and blinked. She was slowly waking up. She rolled over to her sides and pulled up her blanket. Wait¡­ blanket¡­ bed?


    Lena jerked her eyes open and stood up. She looked around and she was definitely in her room. She opened her eyes wide and blinked a few times. She sudden physical movement was giving her a headache. This was one of the side effects of being drunk¡­ She closed her eyes and opened them again.


    "How did I get here?" She quickly tossed the blanket aside and look at her clothes. ''OH MY GOSH! These were not the clothes that I was wearing yesterday!'' Lena put her hands on her head. ''What happened yesterday night?!''


    She gasped as a sudden thought past her mind. She looked at the spot between her legs. She got off the bed and stood on her legs. She let out a breath when she did not feel any pain.


    There was a small knock on the door and Jane entered the room. "Oh, Miss. Shen is awake. I was just bringing you something warm to drink. It will help you with your hangover."


    Lena took the drink from the nurse and took a sip. The drink was a bit bitter and sour, but she knew it was good for her. She held her breath and drank all of it. She placed the cup on the bedside table.


    Jane placed a new set of clothes on Lena''s bed. "Mr. Li carried you to your room last night. Don''t worry though, I was the one who changed your clothes."


    Lena let out a small breath of relief. "Thank you. I was going to kill that man if he did anything to me!"


    Jane laughed. "Miss. Shen should go and apologize to him instead." Lena looked at Jane with confusion. "I heard from the doctor that Miss. Shen puked on him."


    "Oh my gosh! I think I remember him saying he was going to kill me!"


    "Ah.. Miss. Shen--" Jane wanted to tell her to change before going out, but Lena was already out the door. Yesterday, she gave Lena one of her nightgowns.


    Lena rushed out the door in lightning speed. She needed to go apologize to the devil before she becomes his food! She did not know which room he was in though. Lena opened the first door she saw and the room was empty. She went to the next one and it was empty too.


    The door she opened, she hit the jackpot. However, Kris had just woken up too, he was buttoning his shirt up when the door slammed open. He was going to yell but it was Lena. She is wearing a cute unicorn nightgown.


    Lena did not care though. She clapped her hands together and did a sad face. "Mr. Li! I am so sorry that I puked on you!"


    Kris raised his brows. "Puke? Who told you that you puked?"


    "Doctor Tye told Jane. Jane told me."


    Kris remembered then that last night he did tell Tye that Lena puked on him. "Why are you even here? Should you not be with Gary right now?"


    "Gary? Oh no, I missed his morning wash." Lena looked at the time and it was 10 a.m."


    "Wash? Did the nurse not tell you? He woke up yesterday."


    "What?!" Lena''s heart started beating faster from the excitement and she smiled. "I will go see him!" She turned around and head out of the room.


    "Wait." Kris grabbed her wrist and turned her to face him again. Lena could see his bare chest from the unfinished buttoning his shirt. She swallowed. "Do you not really remember anything at all yesterday?"


    Lena looked at Kris. She turned her head a bit sideways, trying to recall the events of yesterday. "I¡­.hmmm. You said you were going to kill me?"


    Kris'' eyes turned cold. He dragged her out of his room and closed the door on her.

 Chapter 125 - Promise

    Seeing the door shut on her face. Lena turned around and leaned back on it. She put her hands on her cheeks with her eyes wide opened. She could not remember puking on him¡­ but everything else? How can she not remember that¡­


    Lena covered her eyes with her hands and silently screamed. ''P*rn has poisoned me! My innocence has been robbed!''


    She pounded her heart. ''Don''t think! Go see Gary first!''


    She ran down the stairs. Everyone can hear her heavy footsteps pounding on the wooden floor as she ran. The door to Gary''s room was already wide open and she entered the room. James was there as well as the other female doctor. They both looked up to Lena and saw what she was wearing.


    "Gary?" Lena walked over. She saw that his eyes were still closed.


    "He''s asleep. He was awake all night." The doctor spoke.


    "Miss. Shen." James spoke. "You should go and change, eat, and then you can come back."


    Lena looked down her gown and nodded. She rushed back up the stairs with her elephant footsteps. She took a shower, brushed her teeth, and changed her clothes. She went down to the kitchen to grab something to eat. Lena had not seen any of the other people at all.


    Knowing that her stomach had tons of alcohol yesterday, she ate a big brunch. She finished her food and head back to Gary''s room. He was still asleep. Lena told James that he should go to sleep since he was with Gary all night.


    Lena grabbed her laptop and started googling some stuff. She put in some keywords and a few results showed up.


    "What to do if you embarrassed yourself when you are drunk?"


    "Why drunk feelings are not real feelings when in a relationship."


    "My friend passionately kissed me while drunk. Does it mean anything?"


    The articles did not help. They told her that it can mean nothing, or something, or everything. That it was not a big deal or it was a big deal. WHICH IS IT?!


    "Argh¡­ I need to text Hazel¡­" Lena grumbled.


    "Am I not good enough?"


    Lena looked up and saw Gary''s baby face staring back at her. Her eyes started getting watery.


    "Don''t cry."


    "I am not crying." Lena stood up. "Let me get you some water."


    She went and poured a cup of water and put a straw in it. She put the straw to Gary''s mouth and he took a long sip. Lena placed the cup back on the table.


    "Welcome back to the land of the living."


    Gary looked at Lena. His face was still tired but it was such a relief to see her happy. "I am sorry." Gary coughed.


    "Don''t talk. Your vocals are still tired and adjusting."


    Gary tried to lift up his hands my it was kind of weak. Lena saw it and grabbed it. "Sorry I did not tell you."


    Lena knew Gary was talking about how he was the half-brother of Andy. She smiled back at him. "It''s ok. I got even with that." Gary eyes opened a bit more. "Yeah¡­ I broke into your apartment." Gary''s eyes got even wider. "BUT I made sure not to go into your big room AND I also feed your fishes so they are not dead. Well¡­ one died but it was already dead before I got into the room so we can scratch that one out."


    Gary coughed and laughed. Lena quickly released her hands from him and went to grab the cup of water again. She fed it to Gary.


    "Lena¡­ Let''s get our revenge."


    Lena placed the water back on the table and stared into Gary''s eyes. It was different. It was like hers when she realized that the world was not as simple as people make it to be. She smiled and grabbed Gary''s hands again. "Yeah. Let''s go slay some dragons."


    Gary squeezed Lena''s hand. "She''s not my mother. She''ll never be my mother and that family will never be my family."


    "En! I''ll be your family. Me and Hazel."


    Gary coughed again. "I think I will die before I get my revenge if Hazel is my family."


    Lena laughed. "Ok.. James can adopt you instead."


    They both laughed, just a bit though because Gary was still weak. Lena sat down and then started talking about the events of what happened when Gary was in a coma. She talked about the Yang family, how she teamed up with Kris. She told him about SHYNE and her family situation. Of course, she removed the part about the old weird granny and what happened yesterday. She also did not talk about helping Kris with his therapy.


    After a long talk of Lena rambling about things, she finally stopped. "I am happy you came back. Thank you for keeping your promise."


    Gary turned his head a bit to see Lena''s smile. He also saw that Kris has been standing outside the door for a bit. He smiled.


    "Lena, am I still your best friend?"


    "Of course!"


    "The best man in your life?"


    "Of course!" Lena smiled. "NOT! My dad is first then¡­ I think I like James more than you¡­ and then I like Ru--" Lena stopped. What was her mind thinking? "I like Gary next! You are all important to me."


    Kris knocked on the door frame and Lena turned back. "Tye''s looking for you."


    "Oh?"


    "He already talked to Gary about what is the next step but you should know too." Kris looked at both of them. "Tye''s in the living area."


    "Ok. Thanks." Lena stood up and quickly left. She did not even give Kris a glance. ''It''s too embarrassing to look at him!''


    Kris watched as Lena stood up and left the room. She walked down the hallway and went to the living room. He continued to look at the empty hallway even after she was gone.


    "Don''t tell her."


    Kris turned back and looked at Gary who was speaking to him. He walked to him. "Lena paints you as a very gentle man, but you really are a very cunning man." Kris stood on the side of the bed.


    "You promised. If I help you, you also will help me. Lena will know when the time is right."


    Kris looked at Gary again. He smiled at the man and walked out.

 Chapter 126 - 10-minute break

    Lena saw Tye sitting on the sofa and looking through some files. He noticed her coming and smiled at her. "You''re finally here! I was wondering if Kris got lost looking for you." Tye joked.


    "Are those Gary''s?"


    "Yeah." Tye handed them to Lena. "We did a full scan of him yesterday. His brain is perfectly fine. Like any person who has woken up from a coma, they will need to go through physical therapy. Gary also agreed to go see a psychologist too."


    "Psychologist?"


    "Yeah. I recommended someone else to him. Although I am the best, my work is all focused on Kris."


    Lena looked at the charts of Gary''s physical health. She recalled some time ago, her doctor also recommended her to go see a professional too. She looked back up at Tye. "Can you recommend me one too? Preferably a female?"


    Tye was amazed that Lena asked that. He as a doctor know that all of them went through lots of things. He smiled. "Sure. I actually have the perfect one for you. I can give you her card."


    Tye ruffled through his folders and pulled out a card. He handed to her. Lena took it and read the name, Stella Feng.


    "She''s the best female in the field."


    "I trust you." Lena put the card in her pockets. "So about Gary."


    "He will stay here for physical therapy until he is healthy again. But about his return¡­ since he is proclaimed dead.. I don''t know much. I believe Gary and Kris were talking about it the night before. You should go ask them on that."


    "It''s very simple actually." Kris walked toward them. He picked up some throwing darts and threw one at the target. "He has no mother¡­ but he still has a father." He threw another one at the target, hitting the center again.


    "His father? Does he know who his dad is?"


    "You don''t need to worry about that. He''s a big man, he can figure that out himself." Kris tossed one dart to Lena who caught it. "You should worry about what you are supposed to do."


    "I know." Lena threw the dart but failed miserably. "Make the Yang family fight against each other." She grabbed another dart from Kris'' hand and threw it at the target. She did not hit the center but it got into the target.


    "Oh, by the way, you are going home with me and Collin." Kris removed the darts from the target and played again.


    "WHAT?!" Lena was going to sit in a three-hour car ride with Kris! Why are the gods torturing her!


    "What? You came here with Tye, so you need to leave somehow. You also have a company to run, or are you already tired of playing business?"


    "Business is not a plaything. I will go back and stay with Gary until we leave." Lena walked out but Kris stepped in front of Lena, blocking her path.


    "You can''t leave yet. Are you forgetting about me? I am paying you to help me with my therapy. The man is not dead yet, you can see him anytime but my mom''s birthday is near."


    Lena rolled her eyes. "10-minute break!" She walked around Kris and went back to see Gary. Kris smiled.


    ------


    After getting exactly her 10-minute break, Kris dragged Lena back to the therapy room. As usually, the bodyguards stood their position and Tye sat in a comfy chair. Lena noticed that there were no floor mats on the ground. They placed floor mats after knowing that their fighting was effective.


    "You both won''t be wrestling today. We are going to move to something more passive." Tye walked to his cupboard of exotic tools and pulled out a large speaker. "You will be dancing."


    Dancing? Lena was hoping she could punch Kris today. He had been an a**hole to her lately and she needed to punch him.


    "But, we''ll start with a handshake first."


    They both nodded. Lena tried her best to avoid looking at Kris directly. However, Kris was himself. Lena stuck out her hand. "Hello, Mr. Li. I am Lena Shen."


    "Nice to meet you." Kris played along. he grabbed her hand and gave Lena a nick strong shake then they both let go.


    Tye clapped. "WOW! I was hoping I get to tased Kris today." Kris looked at the psych doctor. Kris had been tased by him before. "Again."


    They both shook each other hands for three more times. Tye was setting up the speakers. When he was done, he grabbed his phone and played music. The music was synced to the speakers. A piece of music was heard and Lena frowned. ''Is he kidding me? This song.. really?!''


    Kris took the music as the signal to start. He bowed down like a gentleman and held out his arm. "May I have this dance, Miss. Shen."


    Lena did not move. "What? Did you not say that you wanted to dance with me before? I am being very generous with you." Kris smirked.


    Lena took a deep breath and took his hand. She put the other on his shoulder and they danced. She was kind of scared a bit there but see how relaxed Kris was, she felt like today was going to be fine. Tye smiled at his wonderful work.


    Both of them was barefoot but Lena was able to dance fine. This type of stuff, she was used too. Her hands on his shoulder, it reminded her more of last night. Being sober now, she can really tell that the man had a very broad shoulder.


    Kris twirled Lena around once and grabbed back her waist. Their distance was closer now. He could smell her fresh scent. He was staring at her but she was focused on something else.


    "What are you thinking of?" He asked.


    "Nothing. Just trying not to make a mistake."


    Kris grabbed her waist and pulled her closer even. He put his mouth near her ears. "Did you really not remember anything from yesterday?"


    Lena felt his warm breath on the tip of her ears. She could hear his sad tone when asking the question. ''Is he sad because I pretended not to remember any of it?'' Lena glanced up to look at Kris who had already distance them again. ''It must be really hard for him to tell me and I pretended not to remember...''


    Lena smiled. "Just a bit."


    "A bit?"


    Lena fully faced Kris and stared at him. "You were 8 when you killed her. I don''t really remember anything much after that though. Just bits and pieces."


    "Bits and pieces?"


    "I am really going to kill you." Lena lowered her voice to imitate Kris. "Just that."


    Kris spun Lena again. "Just that." He smiled a bit. ''At least she still remembered something..''


    "Kris.." Lena said his name and he looked at her. "If you are a murderer then am I not already your accomplice? I am abetting and hiding a criminal. "

 Chapter 127 - Steal her man back

    Lena continued to look into his eyes. "I promise to help you until you can hug your mom."


    Kris smiled back to her. Lena was surprised to see such a genuine smile from him. He stopped smiling and replied back to her. "Just so you know, those who break their promises to me, I personally kill them with my own two hands." Kris pushed her waist up closer to her and smirked.


    Lena felt a cold chill down her spine. It is alright though because she knew that she will keep her promise. They dance another round before Lena called for another 10-minute break. Lena fed Gary his lunch and then went back to her dance lessons.


    When they were done for today, Tye was really proud of Kris. He told him that this was great progress. "I want both of you to continue the sessions when you go back."


    "Hmm?" Lena was confused.


    "You live in the same place, just meet up for 30 minutes and exercise, dance, or fight with each other. I don''t care but making it a daily routine would help out." Tye put the speakers away. "I sent both of you a sample of a weekly routine."


    "What are you doing then? Seems like I am doing your job." Lena pointed out.


    "Well, I am taking care of Gary until he is back in shape. I think this is a good compromise." Tye threw Gary into the equation knowing Lena would fall for it.


    "I am hungry." Lena walked out first and head to the kitchen. It was the afternoon already and they would be leaving in a few hours. She ate really quick and went to spend the rest of the time with Gary. She told him that they can always video chat every day.


    When it was close to the time to leave, Lena went to pack her items. She did not have much. She thanked all the nurses and the doctor for taking care of Gary. She thanked them for the clothes they shared with her and putting up with her singing.


    James carried her bag out to the car first. Lena wanted to say one last goodbye to Gary.


    "I am leaving."


    "I know. You take good care of yourself."


    "You too."


    "Lena¡­" Gary looked at the table on the side of his bed. "Take the lucky charm back with you."


    Lena looked at the lucky charm that she gave to Gary when they first separated. "Why? I gave it to you."


    "Take it back. I am well now, it''s better if you take it back. You need to be extra lucky because I am not there."


    "Ok." Lena wanted to say that her grandmother made her more, but this one did have special luck powers. She removed it from its place and wrapped it around her wrist, where she always wear a bracelet that Gary gave her.


    She walked out the door. "Next time you see me, I''ll know how to shoot a gun." She gave Gary a thumbs up and left.


    Lena was the last one to get inside the car. Collin was driving and James at up front with him. Kris sat on the opposite side of her. "Where''s Keso?"


    "He drove his own car here. He will be leaving later tonight." Kris responded but he was focused on his tablet.


    Lena put on her seatbelt and the car drove off. She stared back at the mansion. She''ll miss it here. It has only been a week but it felt like home here. She sighed... time to go back and be a working adult and slay some dragons.


    She took out her own work tablet and looked through more files. She has her meeting with the bastard Mike Zhao on Wednesday so she needed to plan for that.


    Kris closed his tablet and look at Lena was she made her thinking faces. He smiled at her. "So.. how are you going to make the Yang family turn against each other?"


    Lena looked up from her tablet. "Simple, steal my man back."


    "Your man?"


    "Well, he''s not my man anymore. Just a puppet."


    Kris had a sudden intention to kill the "her man" but when she said puppet, he calmed down. "You lost to a pauper, what makes you think you can take him back?" He was curious about what evil plan Lena has thought of.


    "Well... Andy likes a sweet girl so that''s what I will be. Show him I can be sweeter. And along the way, make sure Eva slips up her act. I know Andy more than she and I can use that to my advantage. How''s it going on your end?"


    "I will retract the bid on the Agato land auction last minute. I have to make sure Bai Wentao jacked up his bid first and foremost. After that, it''s very simple to expose him." Kris grinned. They have already found enough information on Bai Wentao and his corrupt business. Keso also confirmed that it was Bai Wentao who was hiding the scarred face man. Getting rid of Bai Wentao would give him access to that man and remove one Madam Yang''s back power.


    "By any chance, you know what the pill you took last time was?" Lena asked.


    "The pill? Why do you want to know? Are you going to use that on Andy?"


    "No. But Eva is... I want to know what I am dealing with."


    "The pill is unstable. It can only be digested in its full pill form. Apart from the initial pain from taking it, the person can pass the effects of the pills through body liquid."


    Lena bit her nail and considered how this will affect her plan. "That means if Eva kissed Andy then he will have the effects too... That will complicate things."


    "There is an antidote."


    Lena''s eyes sparkled. "Really?!"


    "I can have Collin deliver some to you." Kris can feel that Lena was happy. But he was wondering about something else in her plan. "Why do you not want her to sleep with him?"


    "Gut feeling."


    ''That again...'' Kris never liked that answer. "What kind?"


    "Hm... Eva would only resort to such things if she wanted to get pregnant, or she already is. And if she is, that baby is not Andy''s."


    "And if she is not pregnant?"


    "A baby will tie a man to her. It would be another reason for them to get married faster. But it does not matter to me if they slept together or got married, I can still steal him back. Especially, exposing her nasty methods to Andy."


    "If Eva does succeed in bearing his child, would Andy turn against her?"


    "I''ll make it look like the child is not his. I only need him to believe it for a while until you guys hit them with the jackpot. If I am able to get Andy by me, imagine the face on Madam Yang, losing both of her sons to the same woman!" Lena laughed menacingly.


    "You''re evil."


    "Learned from the best. You included."

 Chapter 128 - Not seen her for a week

    Collin dropped both Lena and Kris off their place and before dropping off James. Lena told James that their usual routine will start tomorrow again.


    Lena was exhausted from the ride. She walked into the building while she was texting her mom that she will return to work tomorrow. The situation with her friend was all good now. She walked up to the elevators and pressed the up button. The door opened and she walked in. As the door was going to close, Kris quickly entered inside too.


    Lena looked up to him. He had his own elevator, why is he stealing hers. "Something wrong?"


    "No."


    Lena stared up at the tall man in confusion but did not ask him any more questions. She pressed her floor and went back to texting her mom. She told her that she will come visit them on Friday. When the elevator stopped at her floor, she stopped texting and got off. She waved to Kris. "See you tomorrow."


    He did not respond back and the door closed. Lena turned around and continue walking to her door. What she did not see was that Kris stopped the closing elevator door with his hand. He watched her take out her keys, opened the door, and entered the house before closing the elevator door.


    She tossed everything on the floor of her room and just tossed over her soft bed. She missed this place. She only planned to close her eyes a bit but she fell asleep. It was not until her alarm for the next morning woke her up.


    Lena dragged her body to the bathroom to start her day. She had many things to catch up since she was gone. Her fridge was empty since she was gone and she had Noah come and take everything out so it did not spoil. She texted James to pick her up early so she could go get some breakfast.


    They stopped at a local cafe and Lena got her morning coffee and some baked goods. Today, she was wearing a long black pant and white blouse. Her hair was tied up. As she walked into SHYNE''s building, the employee all stared at her. They have not seen her for a week, but they felt like something has changed in their boss. She was wearing her normal clothes, but somehow, she looked for pretty and mature.


    "Good Morning everyone." Lena greeted the employees.


    "Good morning, Miss. Shen."


    When Lena got to her floor, Diane quickly gave her a report of the things she needed to do today and her schedule for the rest of the week. Lena walked into her office and saw a pile of paperwork on her desk. It was not too much though because her mom helped her with most of them.


    Shen Milli had to manage both of the companies for a long time so she was used to the heavy load. Lena still had the easy things. SHYNE was not as busy as AURA, whose target was towards the younger generations. Lena sat down on her chair and put her coffee on the table.


    "Ah, I forgot something." Diane took out a card from her folder. "This is an invitation to this year''s Women Fashion Show."


    Lena took the card from Diane. In the past, she had Andy get her access to the fashion show. Her family was not as big to be personally invited to the fashion show. Her mother was not really into those type of things too. Her mom likes traditional clothing more, that is why Lena''s grandmother very like Shen Milli as a daughter-in-law.


    "The invitation was given to you from Ming Zhao." Diane clarified.


    "Ming Zhoa?" Lena opened the card. The fashion show was next weekend. She wondered why Ming Zhao gave her an invitation. Was it because he put her in the cage with the bastard? Lena smiled. "Thanks. You can leave now."


    Lena put the invitation on her drawer. She picked up the first file from the pile, and it was the project on Eva and Andy''s wedding rings. It looked like they were still going to go ahead with their wedding soon. Lena told Kris that it did not matter if they got married or not, but if she can delay the wedding, it will make Eva even more wary of her relationship with Andy.


    Lena had already finished the designs for their rings. She sent them to the production already, making sure their best craftsman was working on them. The phone buzzed in and it was Diane.


    "Miss. Shen, a man said he has something to deliver to you. He said he works for CEO Li, his name is Collin."


    Collin? "Send him in."


    After a few minutes, her office doors opened and Collin walked in. "Good morning, Miss. Shen."


    "Good morning, Secretary Collin."


    Collin was holding a box. "This is the item that CEO Li asked me to deliver to you."


    Lena took the box and opened it. It was the antidope. There were about 10 syringes of them. Lena did not think Kris would deliver them so soon for her.


    "There is also a note. I did not read it, but Mr. Li personally wrote it this morning."


    Lena say the note sticking to the top of the box. "Thanks."


    Collin took his leave. Lena opened the note and read it.


    "Always have one with you. Especially if you are going to see Mike Zhao tomorrow."


    Lena placed the card down. ''How does he know? Is he spying on me?'' Lena looked around her room as if there was another eye always looking at her.


    Kris was correct though, it would be nice to have one with her. If she is going to play risky, then she also need to make sure she can protect herself. If she was going to dive into the dragon''s den, she can''t have James with her 24/7.

 Chapter 129 - Look pretty

    The next day, Lena was up early to prepare herself for the lunch meeting with Mike Zhao. Knowing that the man was a hungry sexual beast, Lena knew exactly how to play him. She picked up dress out of her vast closet. It was a royal blue, open bust bodycon dress with a backless strap. The bottom was short but not too short. Lena would still be able to sit down and her panties would not be showing.


    However, the dress was perfect, outlining all her curves. And which man can resist a woman''s enormous exposure at her front. Lena winked at herself in the mirror. She put on a high, black laced pair of heels. Lena let her hair down with a small amount of curl. Lena put on a layer of nude lipstick but pack a darker red lipstick to use later.


    She still had to go to the office in the morning, she did not want to look too much like a slut. She grabbed a black maxi overcoat to cover herself. She put on sunglasses to cover her heavy eye make-up.


    When she arrived at her office, again, many of the employees stared at her. They knew that their boss was not the same arrogant young lady anymore. Yesterday she looked like a mature businesswoman and today she looked like a hot model. They don''t know what other looks their boss can perfect at. Lena did not greet anyone today and just rushed up to her office.


    Lena entered her office and finally took off her overcoat. She placed the sunglass in her bag. It was warm today and she was slightly sweating from wearing it. Diane was surprised that Lena was so dressed up today.


    "Miss. Shen looks beautiful today. Is that for your lunch date?"


    Lena turned her face at Diane. "It''s not a date¡­ I am going to war. And if I were to please a man, I would wear my grandma''s clothes. And he does not like that, the door is open."


    Lena made a joke about grandma''s clothes because most older women wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers their body. Diane understood what Lena meant. She gave Lena her paperwork for today and left.


    Lena sat down on her chair and start signing off paperwork. She was approving the production of several projects. Ming Zhao also sent her some reports on the production of Project Crystal. He sent her a contract of their finalize project too, staying her shares in the company.


    She finished her coffee and tossed it in the trash. She laid herself back and stretch her arms. Lena accidentally knocked down her pencil holder at the end of the table.


    "Aigh.." She pushed her chair back and went on the floor to pick them up. It was hard to pick them considering the tight dress that she was wearing.


    Lena heard her office door open but the table was blocking her view. She could see a man''s shoe.


    "Lena?"


    Lena quickly placed the holder back on her desk and popped her heat out from under the table to look at the man.


    "Oh..Andy." Lena was surprised to see him. Of all day, he had to come to visit her today¡­ She was not exactly "innocent" today.


    Andy walked closer to the desk. "Are you okay?"


    ''Act! Just pretend!'' Lena quickly stood up from the ground. She put her hand on her the back of her and bent her legs a bit, acting like a shy girl. "Ah.. sorry. I dropped my pens."


    She pulled down her dress with one hand. "My mom set up a date for me so I am dressed up a bit." She kept her eyes on her desk, avoiding Andy''s stare, acting like a cute girl.


    Andy cleared his throat. "I think you look pretty."


    Lena looked up and saw Andy blushing at her. He rubbed his nose and avoided her eye contact when she looked at him. ''What the¡­ isn''t he suppose to like innocent girls?'' Lena kept her sweet act though. She smiled at him. She walked out and Andy could clearly see her entire body now.


    Lena walked to her sofas and sat down with her legs crossed.. "Sit. Did you need something?"


    "Ah yes." Andy sat down on the same sofa as her. He handed out a file to her. "Eva wanted to change the diamond on the rings. I hope you have not started working on them yet."


    "They are not completed yet so it should be fine. Let me see." Lena moved closer to him and grabbed the file.


    Lena evaluated the changes. Eva did not want three diamond now, she wanted five. And not only that, she added more diamond on Andy''s too. Lena frowned.


    "Is there something wrong with it?" Andy asked. He was not really into this whole wedding preparation. Eva was out with his mother to go do other things today so he was in charge of telling Lena about the changes.


    "You want five diamond on your ring too?" Lena looked at Andy.


    Andy moved directly next to her, both of their shoulders touching each other. He looked at the picture and noticed that his design of the rings had five diamonds.


    He looked at Lena who was fully focused on the designs. He could smell her light perfume. It was her usual one but somehow, today it smelled really nice. Was she always this pretty?


    "Andy?"


    "Hmm?" He blinked out of his daze.


    "I asked if you want five diamond too."


    "What do you think?"


    "Well¡­ I think you match with just one. You always like something more simple and too much diamonds will make it too much of distractions for a businessman like you."


    "Let''s stick with one then."


    "Ok."


    Lena placed the designs on the table and grabbed a pen. She bent a bit down to marked off the extra diamond and edited the design. A small strand of hair fell down as she leaned forward. She raised her hands to push it behind her ear and went back to editing the design.


    Andy saw her move the hair and his eyes followed the hair. It flowed down her smooth long neck and dropped to her side. He gently swallowed. He can see more clearly how big Lena''s breasts were as she leaned forward to work on the designs. It was like they were yelling to escape out of her dress.

 Chapter 130 - Special Treatment

    Lena picked the designs up form that table now that she was done. She sat back up straight and looked at Andy. "It''s done." She spoke, but Andy was dozing off. She looked behind her and there was nothing interesting there. Was he looking at her? "Andy!"


    He cleared his throat again. "Sorry. You were saying?"


    "It''s done. I''ll make sure to get this into production right away. This should not delay the process." Lena stood up and walked back to her desk. "Do you need anything else?"


    "Ah.. um.. No. Thanks." Andy turned around to leave but Lena called out him.


    "Ge-ge."


    Andy turned back to see her smiling at him. Seeing her stand so beautifully behind the windows which showed a vast scenery of the city, she looked like a goddess who owned the world. She walked up to him and gave him a soft hug.


    Andy did not expect the sudden physical contact but somehow he softly held her waist and hugged her. He closed her eyes and breathe in her lovely scent.


    Lena released the hug and looked at him. "I am so glad that you found happiness."


    ".. Yeah.."


    Lena walked first and opened the door for him. She waved at him as he left and entered the elevator. Once in it, he quickly loosened his tie and took several deep breaths. ''Shit¡­ I am getting turned on. Is it because Eva has been advancing at me lately that I am like this?'' He paused and looked at himself from the reflection of the mirror. ''Or is it just because Lena has changed.''


    -----


    When it came to lunchtime, Lena told Diane that she might be out longer. James followed her out and they got into the car. As James drove to the restaurant, Lena took out a hand mirror and her deep red lipstick. She gracefully put it on and smacked her lips. She smiled at her reflection before closing the mirror and putting it away.


    "Is Miss. Shen ready?" James asked. He knew what Lena was up to today, but he was still wary about Mike Zhao.


    "I am. Remember, don''t come in to interfere at all unless I give you the signal. I need to play nice with him until I can get all the information I want from him."


    "I understand. Just please be extra careful." James stopped the car in front of the 5-star restaurant. "I''ll always be nearby."


    Lena nodded. She took off her overcoat. The worker opened the car door for her. She stepped out of the car like one hella sexy lady. Lena winked at the worker and walked into the building, holding a small wallet.


    Lena got to the front and the waiters greeted her. "Hello. Do you have a reservation?"


    "Yes. I ---"


    "Miss. Shen!"


    Lena turned around and saw Mike Zhao. He wore a fancy black suit and carried a suitcase with him. The lunch was about business.


    "Hello, Mr. Zhao."


    "Please, we are close enough to call each other by our first names. Are we not?"


    "You are correct, Mike."


    He smiled at her. With his free hand, he wrapped it around Lena''s waist like they were an intimate couple. "She''s with me." He replied to the waiter.


    "Oh yeah, right this way Mr. Zhao."


    The waiter led them to an open dining area. There were only VIP people here. Lena was more relaxed knowing they won''t be in a private room. She ignored his hand on her waist and continue her cheerful smile. They got to their table and he pulled out the chair for Lena.


    "Thank you." Lena gently sat down as Mike sat across from her.


    "You''re so pretty. It''s a surprise you are not really engaged yet."


    Lena looked up to him. He must be talking about when she answered Old Madam Zhao about her being engaged.


    "Just haven''t found the perfect man yet." Lena replied.


    They both quickly ordered their food. As the waiter left, Mike Zhao pulled out a small file from his suitcase.


    "These are several items that I think may interest you."


    Lena took the file and flipped through them. A few things caught her eyes. SHe wondered what other weird things are the Zhao company researching. "You have any of these with you right now?"


    "No. But I will next time."


    The next time¡­ This was truly cunning. "Of course. This one." Lena pointed to a product.


    "Ah.. the Whiteout. A small injection can cause a person to lose consciousness and not remember what they did the previous day. Just like a blackout from being drunk.


    "Do I get a discount?"


    "Miss. Shen. I am a businessman too." He smiled at her then looked at Lena''s hand that was rested on the table. He reached out and hold it. "However, you''re special.. And special people get special treatment." He caressed her hand.


    Lena used her other hand and covered her mouth a bit for a small giggled. "Mike, you are so sweet. I definitely think we should get to know each other.. Better." She said it seductively. "How about¡­ dinner next time?"


    The man looked up to Lena with excitement in his eyes. "Of course! If there is anything you see that interest you, just tell me."


    They talked a bit more about the other products and Lena got very detailed information on them. They set up another meeting for next Monday.


    Their food arrived and they ate cheerfully together. Both of them have to go back to work after lunch so they did not waste much time with other chit chat. Mike still held Lena''s waist as he led her back to her car.


    "Thank you. See you soon." Lena said goodbye to the man.


    "I''ll look forward to it."


    When Lena got inside the car, she took out a wet wipe and cleaned her hands. She also sanitizer them. She took out a make-up wipe and removed the red lipstick on her lips. She put a soft chapstick over it and she felt more refreshed.


    "How was it?" James asked.


    "I''ll have to meet up with him again."


    James frowned.. He did not like that man one bit. "Again?"


    "I have another theory¡­ and I need to find out if it''s true." Lena opened up her tablet and searched for something. Noah was able to keep tabs on the Yang family bank accounts. As expected, none of their recent transaction shows any large withdrawal or charges apart from the wedding preparations.


    "He charged me 1 million for each product I want and 3 million for the bottle of pills. Madam Yang was the one who gave her the pills, but if she did not give Mike cash, what did she offered him?"

 Chapter 131 - Changing

    Lena just arrived back at her office. Once there, she quickly removed her heels. She walked to a pretty large dresser in her office. She took out a pair of soft slippers and the extra set of clothing she has there. She made sure her door was already locked before when she came in. Lena also made sure the camera in her room was not blinking, showing that it was off so she was cleared to change.


    She did not have any meetings for the rest of the day so she wanted to change to relax for the rest of the day. She tried to loosen the strap at her back to remove the dress. She bent her arm back, trying to find the clasp.


    Her cell phone rang and she looked at the caller ID. It was a private number. Lena did not pick it up. It rung again with the same number but Lena denied it. It rung another time, but this time "Kris" popped up.


    Lena answered it. "Heyo!"


    "Are you back at your office?"


    "Yeah. Just got back."


    "How was your lunch?"


    "So, so. Had to play a fine lady so I didn''t order meat." Lena placed the phone on the table with the speaker on. She went back to try to loosen the clasp. "How was your lunch?"


    "Good." Kris looked at his untouched plate of food. It was a perfectly cooked juicy piece of steak. He was just poking at it with his fork. He slammed the fork into the center of the meat. "Do you always let a man touch you so easily?"


    "No." Lena replied right away. "Well¡­ it depends. Is he hot?" There was no answer on the phone and then Lena realized what Kris was talking about. "Wait¡­ were you watching me?"


    "No. I had a lunch meeting at the same restaurant. Just saw him walk you out." He spoke softly over the phone. It was really a coincidence that he saw Lena today. He knew that she was meeting with Mike Zhao today but not at this place. Kris wanted to treat Collin to something nice today since that had been eating so many Tye''s homecooked foods for the past week.


    "Oh¡­ don''t worry. I just have to meet him one more time then I''ll never see him again."


    "One more time?" Kris raised his voice.


    "Yeah...by the way¡­ I know it''s illegal but we are already doing illegal stuff. But, do you think Doctor Tye can access Eva''s medical records for me?"


    "He can¡­. What are you planning to do with it?"


    "Gut feeling."


    "...." Kris removed the fork from his steak. He picked up the steak knife and started stabbing the steak in a rhythm.


    "Ugh.. why is this so hard."


    Kris can hear Lena grumbling over the phone. "What are you doing?"


    "Changing."


    "...."


    "One minute." Lena muted her mic and finished changing. She finally got the dress off and put on her clothes. "Ok. Back." There was no response. Lena checked her phone to see if her mic was still off. "Hello?"


    "I am here. I have to go through."


    "Ok. See you tonight!" Lena hung up the phone first.


    After hearing the silence from the phone, Kris closed his cell phone. He tossed the knife on the table. "Let''s go."


    Collin just came back from using the restroom and was about to sit down. They are going already? He was so happy that Kris was taking him to go eat such a good restaurant. He looked at his plate of delicious food and Kris'' plate of¡­ massacred food.


    Kris stood up and placed his napkin on the table. "You''re paying. I did not like the food here."


    Collin looked at the table again at the expensive untouched food there. The bottle of wine was not even opened yet. Collin called for the waitress. "Pack them for to go."


    Collin came back to the car with the packed food. Since he paid for it, he''s going to share them with his girlfriend tonight. His schedule has been more open since Kris needed to go home on time so Lena and he can have their therapy session. By then, Keso would be in charge of Kris.


    He carefully placed them in the passenger seat. Kris was talking on the phone. When he got to the driver''s seat, Kris was already off the phone.


    "Who was it?" Collin asked as he started the car and drove it back to the company.


    "Hugh. Just telling the man to take control of his side of things or else I will."


    Collin shuddered. If Kris gets involved, he likes using force and doing things quicker than most. They quickly got back to the company. When they arrived, Keso was outside waiting for Kris already. Keso opened the door for Kris as he got out.


    "Something bad happened." Keso told Kris.


    Kris looked at Keso and then continued to walk into the company. The three of them got into the VIP elevator. "What is it?"


    "We got a report from the mole. He said that both the Yang and the Bai family knows about Agato land and its condition. They will be playing the same tricks on us. They want us to bid high and then they will pull out last minute so we lose."


    "Tsk¡­" Kris stepped out of the elevator and went to his office. He was calm as he sat on his chair.


    "What would you like me to do?"


    Kris turned his chair to look out the window. He rubbed his chin as he try to improvised the plan. "Who currently have the highest bid right now?"


    "That would be the Zhao family."


    "Heh¡­ perfect. Leak the information on the land deal. Make sure it out by tomorrow morning."


    "Are you sure? That will damage the Zhao family."


    "I am sure. It''s the Zhao family, this won''t harm us." Kris turned his chair back to the front. "And one more thing, have Lay cause more trouble to the Yang family."


    "Very well." Keso head out of the room to go do what he was assigned.


    "Are you going to give a heads up?" Collin asked after Keso left.


    "No. He deserves what is coming his way."

 Chapter 132 - His bill

    Lena got out of work early because she wanted to shower before her daily meeting with Kris. James dropped her off as usual and left. Since thing has been fine with how Kris and Lena were, Keso should be enough for safety precautions. Ben was working today and he clicked the elevator door for Lena as she arrived.


    When Lena got to her apartment, she set her stuff down and went for a cool shower. She got out after 10 minutes. She draped her wet hair in a towel. She turned on her laptop. As it boots up, she went back to the bathroom to dry her hair. She ruffled her hair as the hair drying blew her hair all over the place.


    Lena combed and it let it down so it can flesh out from the hot air. She put some moisturizer on her face and went back to take a seat. She pulled up a document on her laptop and sent it to her printer.


    As the printer was doing its job, Lena walked to her closet to find what she was going to wear. According to the plan that Tye made for them, today they were going to just spend some time dancing. She picked her outfit and put it on. She went to her vanity and tied her hair up.


    Lena looked at the clock. She has 10 more minutes. She grabbed the paper from the printer, fold it in fourths, and placed it in her bag. She grabbed her phone and apartment keys. She was now deciding what kind of shoes to wear. She was going to be barefoot anyways so she just slipped on some house slippers.


    She got to the elevator and pressed the highest floor. Kris'' room was really simple from what she saw last time she was at the Li mansion. Lena was curious what kind house does he have since he lives here alone.


    The elevator door opened and she walked to the door. From the outside, it looked normal like hers. She knocked on the door. There was no response. She rang the doorbell. Still no response. Lena texted Kris that she was outside his door. She waited a bit but no reply. She tried to call him but it went directly to voicemail.


    "Ugh¡­" Lena plopped down on the carpeted floor and sat down. She tried to call him again but the result was the same. She waited for another 10 minutes and there was still no sign of Kris.


    ''Why is this man so late?!'' Lena stood up and went back to the elevator. She hit the button to send her to the ground floor. When she got down, Ben greeted her.


    "Have you seen Mr. Li come home yet?"


    Ben shook his head. "Mr. Li has not returned yet."


    Lena sighed. She walked up to the front desk. ''Might as well wait for him here.''


    ---------


    Kris got out of work just on time. Collin had his date so he left early and Keso drove Kris home. However, Kris made Keso stop a block away from the building. He stared at the clock as it ticked by. Lena texted him and called him a few times but he ignored it.


    Keso looked at Kris through the back mirror. Did something happen between the two of them? Kris had been acting like poop since lunch¡­


    "Kris¡­ are you going to go yet?"


    "Wait a bit more."


    "It''s already half an hour past the scheduled time. If Miss. Shen gets angry, she can just pull out entirely."


    Kris looked up from his phone. "Fine, you can go now."


    Keso rolled his eyes. Kris was so bipolar. The parking lot of the building was underground. Keso dropped Kris off the front of the building and then went down to park the car. When Kris entered the building, he heard a loud laughter. He knew exactly whose laugh it was. He saw Lena wearing a beautiful floral dress. Her hair was tied up and it had a bow on it.


    Lena was standing but leaned forward to the front desk. She was talking to a young man.


    "AHH!! Don''t kill me.. Please let me win once!" Lena screamed. Her eyes were glued to the gaming app she was playing. She was just chatting with one of the front desk workers and he showed her a new game. He was on break so they played a few rounds together while Lena waited for Kris.


    Lena was never good at games but it was very fun! She did not win any rounds yet but the young man was being really nice to Lena, teaching her how to play and offering some beginner tips.


    "Aiya! I died again!" Lena pouted.


    "Ahaha¡­ Miss is really pretty but that doesn''t mean I will let you win so easily." The young man spoke. He quickly lowered his head when he saw Mr. Li coming inside the building. "Welcome back Mr. Li!"


    "Mr. Li!" Lena copied the young man and greeted Kris.


    So.. he was back as Mr. Li now huh...Kris continued walking ignoring Lena but she trailed along with him. She made sure she will get to ride the VIP elevator today so she walked very close to him. However, to her dismay, Kris walked up to the normal elevators and pressed the button to go up.


    "Is your elevator broken?" She asked.


    Kris walked inside the elevator as it opened. "No."


    Lena had a confused expression on her face. Why was he riding these then? She walked in with him. The door closed and Kris pressed the top floor. Kris continued to look straight ahead and paid no attention to Lena. Lena grabbed out the paper from her bag and a pen. She wrote something down, using her palm for support.


    "What are you writing?"


    "Adding a charge to your bill?"


    "My bill?"


    "Yes, your bill. I will give you a weekly bill of all the charges for all the pain you gave me."


    Kris scowled and stared at Lena. "What did you just add?" He looked down at the paper but Lena hid it from him.


    "10k for letting me wait and another for delaying more time by not taking the cool elevator."


    "What kind of pain are those?!"


    "Mental and physical pain! I am growing older every second and I am wasting it waiting on you!"

 Chapter 133 - Speed Elevator

    Kris wondered what other miscellaneous fees she has been charging him with. He pressed the stop button on the elevator.


    "Why are we stopping?" Kris clicked a few more buttons to override the elevator and now it was going back down. "Why are we going back down?"


    Kris ignored Lena until they hit the ground floor again. The door opened and Kris got off. Ben was surprised to see them back down so quick. "Let''s go."


    "Go where?"


    "To ride your cool elevator."


    Lena looked at him in disbelief. She was trying to see if Kris was joking or not. She was serious on her charges. "No¡­ I think I will take the money."


    Lena pushed the button for the elevator to close. However, Kris quickly walked in front of her, bent down a bit and carried her over his shoulders.


    "Hey, hey, hey!" I am wearing a dress! Ahhh!" She held down the bottom of her dress that flared up a bit out.


    Keso took the stairs to the ground floor. He saw Kris carrying Lena over his shoulder and walking toward the speed elevator. He did not know if he should interfere or not. Lena saw Keso standing and watching them.


    She stretched her hand out. "Help me.. I am being kidnapped."


    Lena wiggled her feet and one pair of her slippers fell out. Kris continued walking to the speed elevator. He pressed the button and the door opened. He got inside and the door closed quickly afterwards. It was not until the elevator started moving that he finally put Lena down.


    "You got the elevator now¡­ that''s 10k off."


    Lena looked up at Kris and then back to the elevator. She noticed that the elevator was very spacious and it only have one floor button¡­ which was the top floor. She could feel that the elevator was going very fast. Lena smiled. She wanted something like this¡­ she needed this technology at work and at home.


    Seeing her cheerfully smiling at the stupidest thing, Kris felt a bit calmer. "You want to see something else?"


    "Hmm?" Lena stared back at Kris, wondering what other things there are.


    Kris pressed a button and in a quick motion, the back of the elevator opened the view of the building. Lena turned around and looked at the amazing view. SHYNE was not as tall as the building here, so having a higher view was definitely more amazing. It makes her feel like she was at the top of the world.


    "Wahhh.." Lena felt a nice wave of happiness in her heart. "Can you stop the elevator?"


    Kris pressed the stop and the elevator stopped. Lena quickly took out her phone and positioned herself for a selfie. Kris silently chuckled. This woman was weird. She winked at the camera and took a selfie of the wonderful back view. After she was done, Kris pressed the button again for the elevator to continue.


    When they reached the top floor, the door opened and Kris stepped out but Lena grabbed his arms. "Again. Each trip is 10k off."


    Kris looked at the little kid who was overly excited about an elevator. He rolled his eyes and went back in. He pressed the elevator and it went down.


    Lena turned back to face the view and closed her eyes. "Aiya! I can do this all day!"


    Kris wondered how high his bill was for her to do this all day. Once they got to the ground floor, Ben was surprised yet again to see these two down here. Lena clasp her hand around Kris'' arms and dragged him out of the elevator. "I need to go back and get my slipper."


    She went back to the spot where it dropped but it was gone. Ben walked over. "The other man picked it up and he went up the elevator already."


    "Oh.. ok. Thanks." Lena replied.


    She dragged Kris back to the speed elevator. He was her keycard, so he was important. She held Kris''s hand and forced his finger to press the button. The elevator door opened. "This is fun! It''s like you are my captive!"


    Kris smiled. Just before, this woman was saying she was being kidnapped. They got into the elevator again and Lena did the same thing. She faced the window and looked out.


    "Have you never been on a rollercoaster?" Kris asked.


    "No." In both of her lives, she had never gone on a rollercoaster. Shen Qian was too busy to ever go out and have fun or it just costs too much. For Lena, she was too proud to go to those places. It was always crowded and the people annoyed her. She would have to mingle with all type of weirdos. "Have you?"


    "No." Kris replied. "I would never do something so childish." In truth, he had no childhood. Not a good one. He spent most of his childhood in a blood bath.


    "Oh... so I guess I won''t invite you when I go then. It''s fine... when Gary is better, I''ll take him."


    Lena sent a text message to Gary that they should go have fun before they die young. Kris looked over her shoulder and saw the text message. The elevator door opened and Lena hopped off. Keso was outside the door waiting for them. He wondered why it took them forever to reach up here. Did they ride the elevator in slow mode?


    Kris walked out after her. "I am your teacher, so I would need to go with you. You are a kid who needs a chaperone."


    "That''s not good. We would be an odd number. Most rides are even."


    Kris scanned his eye and fingerprint on the door and it opened. The door opened and Kris entered first. "Keso can go with us."


    "You should invite Hugh. I have not met him yet." Lena entered his penthouse and Keso followed inside.


    "I told you already. You''ll never meet him."


    Lena walked in further inside the penthouse to observe it. She suddenly stopped her footsteps. "This is your place?"


    Kris came and stood next to her and look at his empty living room. "Yeah."


    "You have... nothing. No furniture at all."


    "I only need a bed."


    The living area was completely empty except the curtains on the window. The dining room had nothing too. The kitchen only has three stools and Lena only saw three cups.


    "You live in the prettiest penthouse and..." Lena shook her head. "Tsk... such a waste of beauty."

 Chapter 134 - House tour

    Lena took off the one pair of her slippers she still has on and put it next to where Keso put her other pair. Kris was going to go and change out of his suit, but Lena told him not to.


    "I wore a dress so it would make the setting more real. Keep the suit on."


    Kris did not believe her. She probably only wore that dress because she likes wearing dresses. And going to work every day, she did not get enough opportunity to wear dresses. He did not mind though. He led them to an open room with hardwood floors. It was going to be his workout room, but he never bothered setting up the place.


    Luckily, Tye knew how empty Kris'' house was so he already made Collin bring in some materials for them to have during the sessions. The room also had many mirrors on the wall, so it was a nice dance room too.


    Because they were already behind on their schedule, it did not take them to set up the speakers and started dancing. They danced to a few different types of songs. Waltz, Ballroom, and a few more. Lena was getting bored. This reminded her of when she was learning how to dance and every day was dance, dance, dance.


    Kris stopped, knowing that Lena was getting bored. "Do you want to do something else?"


    Lena looked up to him. "Can you tell I am bored?"


    "Yeah, you keep stepping on my feet."


    "Oh.." She giggled. "Sorry."


    They separated and Lena sat down on the floor. She laid her back down on the floor and yawn. "I don''t think I can do this for another week or so."


    Kris looked down to Lena who was completely comfortable on the floor. "What do you want to do then?"


    Lena sat up and let her legs spread straight. "Hm.." She looked up to Kris and smiled to him slyly. "I have an idea."


    She stood up and went behind Kris. She jumped and hop on his back and wrapped her legs on his waist.


    "What are you doing?!" Kris was surprised at the sudden contact.


    "Piggyback. You can piggyback me and give me a house tour."


    Kris rolled his eyes. Only Lena would have thought of such a childish thing to do. He can feel her slipping down from her grip on his waist. He grabbed her legs and jump a bit so Lena was supported on his back. "Fine."


    The penthouse has three bedrooms, each with their own bathrooms. He had one more bathroom by the living room. There are a kitchen and a dining room. He has his exercise room, a room for his office, and a projector room. Of course, everything was completely empty. As he introduced each room, Lena would tell him where to go and she told him what he should do to each room. What furniture he should get, where to put pictures, and how to decorate it.


    When they reached Kris'' room, it was the only room that had something. Lena got off his back and jumped on his bed. To her dismay, it was hard as the floor so she quickly got up. She stared at the bed like it was a pile of dirty laundry.


    "You sleep in that?!"


    Kris sat down and laid back on his bed. "Yeah. I like it like this." He looked at the ceiling. After that woman stabbed him, he was in bed for almost an entire year. He hated that. He did not get to go out and play nor experienced the fun things a child his age should be experiencing. After he got sent to his grandfather, he spent his days sleeping on the cold hard ground. Such training was supposed to help his body become stronger.


    Even after his mother woke up and he got helped, he still preferred the ground. It was only after a while that he started sleeping on a bed. However, he still had it custom made to be hard as the floor. Even though such a hard bed brought him bad memories, it help reminded him of all the things he went through.


    Lena could feel that Kris'' mind was on something else. He went silent for a long time. She cleared her throat.


    "Is this it? I think I am going to go back now¡­ it''s past dinnertime for me."


    Lena walked out of the bedroom.


    "Wait. There is still one more area."


    Lena turned back at look at Kris. He smiled. He turned around and bent down his legs so Lena can hop on again. She laughed but happily climb onto his back. Kris carried her to a sliding door. He opened it and it revealed a staircase. He climbed up the stairs.


    "Am I heavy?"


    "No."


    He reached the top and Lena saw where they were. They were at the rooftop. Kris opened the door and Lena felt the cool night breeze. It was not dark yet but it will be in an hour or so.


    "It''s so pretty! I am so jealous of you." She hopped down Kris'' back. She headed straight to the tall railings on the rooftop and stared out to the vast city. It was even more pretty than when she was in the elevator.


    "Can we trade houses? It''s not like you need any of this."


    "You won''t be able to afford this."


    "Pfft." Lena turned around to see the outdoor pool and a smaller enclosed area with a top covering. It must be a hot tub. She walked over and sat on the lounge chair and stared at the sky. Being on top of this place and staring into the night sky, it reminded her of home. Home, as in her original home.


    Shen Qian lived in an apartment complex with many other people but the rooftop was opened to everyone. It was one of her best places to hang out with her friends.


    She''ll need to keep charging Kris so she can afford something like this in the future. She wanted her own penthouse. If this was her place, she would have some nice flowers up here. Lots of more tables and chairs so she can always hang out here.


    She closed her eyes. In the moment of silence, she heard her stomach growl. She opened her eyes but realize that it was not coming from hers, but Kris''.


    "Are you hungry?" She asked him.


    Kris turned his head sideways a bit. He did not have lunch so he was hungry. He had skipped many meals before though, why did his stomach growl now.


    Lena gasped. "Let''s have a rooftop dinner!"

 Chapter 135 - Eat, eat, eat

    Kris looked at Lena. He would not mind dinner. He never came up here much. Hugh liked this view too.


    "Are you going to cook?"


    "Cook?" Lena squinted her eyes at him. "Please, you can''t afford my cooking."


    Kris lifted his head a bit. ''Can''t afford her cooking? Don''t tell me she has been charging me for eating her food this entire time?!'' Somehow, Kris was not happy to see his bill for last week.


    Lena shook her head. "Your house probably has nothing. My house also has nothing. Let''s order take out, I''ll treat." She got up from the lounge chair. "Stay here. I''ll will go call and get Keso too."


    Lena excitedly ran down the stairs. She was happy that she was able to make an excuse to stay longer and enjoy the scenery. Which woman does not like such a beautiful view?!


    She found her purse in the room they were dancing before. She grabbed her phone and called for a take out order. They told her they will deliver it in 30 minutes. She was so excited. She can feel her youth exploding. She ran down the hallway and jumped on Keso''s back.


    "Your master awaits you!" She pointed up the stairs.


    Keso rolled his eyes by smiled. He understood why Lena was so easy to be around with. She was cheerful and mostly honest with her thoughts. She was cunning woman but she also has a wild mind.


    A lot of them, who are around Kris, did not have a happy childhood. And having Lena around, it brings an unknown happiness to them that there are still some people who can smile so freely.


    Kris can hear both of them coming up the stairs. When he say Lena cheerfully behind Keso, he softly laughed. She was really just a child at heart. Keso dropped her down when they reach the lounge chairs. The outside area had a small table with three chairs so Lena was thankful for that. She would not mind sitting on the ground though.


    She sat on a chair and was using her phone. She looked at the pictures she took earlier on the elevator. She sent them to Gary and Hazel.


    Lena: Look at this beautiful view ^-^


    Gary: It''s nice


    In a separate chat, Hazel replied too.


    Hazel: Is tat ur new place


    Lena: No


    Hazel: U still need to invite me for house warming party


    Lena: U need to stop living with ur parents >:D


    Hazel: :C


    Lena giggled at Hazel. The food delivery texted Lena that they would be there in 5 minutes. Keso said that he would get the food. When Lena called for the order, she already made sure to ask for extra disposable plates and eating utensils, just in case Kris does not have any. She also ordered a few dishes that were not seafood so Keso can eat them.


    "So you ever use your pool."


    "No." Kris looked up at the sky. It was turning dark. "I usually stay more at home than here. I told my mom that work has been busy so I would be staying here more. It would be inconvenient for us to have a routine here then me going back home."


    "Ah, that''s right. I will be at my parents on Friday night and on Monday, I am meeting with Mike Zhao again."


    "Why a second meeting?"


    "So I can chop off his d*ck." Lena did no pause to filter her mouth.


    Kris chuckled at the other side. Why was he even worried about her? She knows what she was doing.


    Keso came back and brought over two bags of food. He placed on the table and Lena jerked up from her seat. She was starving! She quickly removed the bags, distributed everyone''s plate to their side of the table and opened the food.


    Kris sat up too and he looked at the food¡­ "What is this?"


    "Food." Lena did not hesitate to eat first. "What did you expect, some five-star food?"


    Kris did not reply. That was what he was expecting.


    "I lost 30k today, too poor to feed you." She scooped a portion of every dishes to Kris'' plate. "Eat, eat, eat. Or I will eat them all."


    She scooped the non-seafood dishes to Keso''s plate. Keso sat down and thanked Lena. He looked at his plate of not so satisfying non-seafood food¡­ He looked at Kris and glared at him. Kris smirked and took a small bite of the food. It was not so bad. Too greasy for his taste, but he had eaten worse.


    In the middle of their meal, Keso went to turn on the lights. It was dark. Lena''s phone rang and a bright smile formed on her face. She dropped her chopsticks, wiped her hands and mouth and stood up.


    "Brb, it''s Gary."


    She walked out further from the two of them and went to the side of the rooftop. She held to the high railings and answered the video call from Gary.


    "Hey!" Lena smiled.


    "Were you busy?" Gary asked.


    "No. I was just eating dinner. AH! It was actually a place you introduced me too. Get well soon so we can eat together."


    "Heh... I am still eating mushy food. They are nasty." Gary paused and observed Lena''s background. It looked like she was outside. "Are you not home?"


    "I am having dinner with Keso and Kris. I''ll leave soon don''t worry."


    Gary smiled from the camera. She was with him again. They talked a few more about what Lena did today. She mentioned Mike Zhao and Andy. She was giggling as Gary explain how weird it was that someone needed to wash his body. Lena did not tell him that she did that to him, she hoped none of the nurses told him that too.


    Kris looked at Lena from the distance. She was always happy but she would be happier whenever it had to do anything with Gary. Keso could see that Kris was not eating. He made sure Lena was not looking too and stole a few bites from the seafood dishes.


    "I saw that." Kris spoke.


    "I don''t care." Keso continued to chew and swallow the food he had in his mouth. He looked at Lena who was still talking happily. "I think... you already see her as your friend."


    Kris looked back and stared at Keso. "What do you mean?"


    "You treat her like any of us. You punish her if she does something bad and rewards her if she does something good. That''s how you treat us." Keso continued to eat more seafood.

 Chapter 136 - Before Andy

    "Friends...Maybe." Kris went back to eating.


    "Even if she is not a friend. She is already someone important to you. You need her to achieve your goals."


    "You talk too much." Important. Kris does not know if he would considered Lena as someone important. His friend will always be with him, but he can also go on without them either way. His mother though, she was important to him.


    Lena said goodbye to Gary and came back to the table. She sat back down and started eating again. She was competing with two big man so she must get her fair share of food.


    After the rooftop dinner, Lena helped Keso cleaned up the area. She thanked Kris for allowing her to stay extra over tonight. Both Keso and she left the place.


    For the next few days, Lena would wait for Kris outside the lobby and ride the elevator with him. They would spend a good amount of time dancing and wrestling. There were a few times they did partner yoga together.


    On Friday, Lena went straight the Shen mansion after work. She had not seen her parents for a long time. Although she enjoyed living out my herself, it was nice to come home once and awhile. Lena bought some gifts for her mom for helping her take care of SHYNE while she was away.


    Now, Lena mostly just come home for dinner and stay overnight and leave the next day. As usual, her mom was cooking with Aunt Mary. Lena told the worker to put the gifts in her parents'' room. She headed to the dining room where her father was already there. She gave him a quick hug before sitting down her own spot. Shen Milli and Aunt Mary finished plating the food and brought them to the table.


    "How was your friend?" Shen Milli asked.


    "She''s fine. Just a bad breakup." Lena dished a few foods onto her plate. "Told her there is no shame in being single."


    "Single¡­ you can''t be single forever." Shen Mao spoke.


    Lena smiled. "Of course I can. I can grow old and take care of you and mom." She paused and looked at her dad''s reaction. Shen Mao looked at Shen Milli. Lena knew then¡­ something was wrong. Was this also about what they wanted to talk about last time?


    Shen Milli knew that her sweet child can feel the change in the air. "Lena¡­ you know you would get married someday. Did you not say you wanted a big family?"


    "I know." Lena took a bite of her food. She did want a big family of her own¡­ but it is not that easy to find a man that she will like and hope to spend the rest of her life with him.


    "You know we don''t push you as much¡­ but that is a different story for your grandparents. We will still be here to see you get married, but they won''t. You are their lovely girl."


    Lena''s grandmother had a few children but never a daughter. So when Lena was born, she was cherished by all of them. Of course, a major part of her spoiled attitude was due to that. Lena continued to eat and listen to her mom.


    "You¡­" Shen Milli did not want to pressure her daughter but she needed to tell her. "You remember that you were engaged before you were engaged with Andy?"


    Lena stopped eating and put down her chopsticks. Before Andy? Lena tried to go back through her memories. She was indeed engaged with someone before she was with Andy. She was chasing Andy so much that she complained and caused earthquakes to her parents and grandparents. Lena did not want to marry anyone else other than Andy.


    Luckily, her initial engagement was through the elder generation and her grandfather was able to annul the agreement. They returned the engagement promise ring back to the other family. After Lena caused such a troubling matter for her family, she was able to get engage with Andy.


    Wow, looking back now, Lena was happy that her first fiance did not get engage with her. She must have been a pain in the ass. The man should be happy that he was not engaged to Lena.


    "What about that?" Lena asked.


    "Seeing that you are no longer with Andy and their son has not yet wed, they have proposed to proceed with the original promise between both families."


    Lena''s heart stopped. If it''s one thing she cannot accept, it was not being able to choose who she wanted to fall in love with. Lena did not also want to argue with her parents. She just stayed silent. Shen Milli knew her daughter well. Shen Milli looked at Shen Mao.


    Shen Mao stretched his hand out to hold Lena''s. "Sweetie, we have not replied to them yet. If you don''t want to, just tell your daddy. He rejected them once, he can do it again."


    Lena looked up to meet her father''s eyes. She sighed in her heart¡­ he was such a good father and Lena had been a horrible daughter throughout her life. Since she has taken over this body, she had tried not to cause too much trouble.


    "Are they a powerful family?" Lena saw her parents exchange glances. ''So¡­ they are¡­''


    Lena knew that in the past, breaking the promise already somewhat damaged the relationship between the older generation. Will she choose her life or her families? The old Lena would automatically choose her own life¡­ but what about her? Is she any different?


    Lena was thinking about how she was going to respond. She did not want to put any more troubles for her family. Madam Yang was already silently attacking them. Their family cannot afford to offend someone else.


    Lena tried to think back who her first fiance might have been but her mind gave her nothing. She can''t delay a response too. Her parents had wanted to tell her before and it''s been passed a week since they last spoke.


    "It''s been years since the annulment of the engagement. If I am this old, should he not be older? He must have heard some rumors about me too.." Lena did not hide that fact that she was marked as a spoiled princess for a long time. "He may be forced too. Why not just let us meet and have things go from there? Do we have to go through such old methods?"


    Shen Milli stared at her husband. "Let''s do it that way then." Shen Mao nodded in agreement. "Lena, I once told you that you can marry any man you want, I still hold true to that. Don''t sacrifice your happiness for us."

 Chapter 137 - Steal people’s man

    After dinner, Lena left to go to her room. She told her mom that she brought them some gifts and they were in their room but she did not feel like talking much after that. She plopped on her bed like a dead body. She took her phone and texted Hazel.


    Lena: I am getting engage XoX


    Hazel: AUhoa;won eoawhhoebq!!!


    After that text, Hazel immediately called Lena. She picked up the phone.


    "Girl! How can you get engaged without telling me?" Hazel screamed over the phone.


    "I am not really getting engaged, but you know.. Just talks.. Between the adults."


    "You know who he is?"


    "No¡­ Maybe you do. He was before Andy?"


    Hazel paused and tried to think. Lena and she have been together since forever. "I don''t remember. All the boys back then were all ugly."


    "...."


    "Don''t worry. If he''s ugly, I''ll help you chase him away."


    Lena smiled. "You know any powerful families that have sons who are not yet engaged or married?"


    "Hmmm¡­" Hazel was part of the Yang family, so she had access to more information about the most top families. "In all of China, there are only 7 families that are equally strong. Two of them are newly weds. Of the rest, we have the three here in City A, then there is the Bai family that is most powerful in City B. Last we have the Huang family from city D."


    Bai family¡­ Lena really hoped that it was not that family. She would become a nun than marry into such an evil family. Lena paused and laughed. All of the families are evil, what was she saying?! Business families who are at the top of the world are greedy, cunning monsters.


    Well, Lena was one too. But she also wanted a man who knew right and wrong. Hazel continued.


    "Andy is engaged. The Zhaos have two sons now. Mike is dating that nasty girl, it''s all over the news. And last time I recall, there were silent rumors that Ming Zhao had always been engaged. The Li family only has Kris Li, but your family is too shitty for that family so they won''t take you."


    Ouch. Shitty family. Only Hazel can call her family that¡­ Lena laughed. "So I guess you''re stuck with the Bai family or the Huang family. The Bai family is a political family. They have two major family branch, Bai Wentai, and Bai Wei. Bai Wentao has two sons, one your age and one younger. Bai Wei has a daughter and a son, but both of them are younger than us."


    "And the Huang family?" Lena asked.


    "You can''t have the Huang Family¡­ I am already setting my next target on the young master Huang. Don''t worry, I will date him and then you don''t have to marry him. See? Win-win." Lena laughed. Gosh, Hazel always know how to make her happy.


    "OHHH but he does have a younger brother. If you married him then, Oh my gosh, we will be family! Yeah, let''s do that instead."


    "HAZEL! You are going off topic. Did you not want to go for Ming Zhao?"


    "I did.. But he''s engaged, remember? We don''t steal people''s man like that b*tch, Eva. And plus.. I have moved past him since high school."


    "How''s your movie shoot?"


    "Good. Lots of hot men here, but none of them compete with my young master Huang."


    "How is it at home?"


    "Fine. But you know what? I think Andy and Eva finally have their first fight."


    "Really?" Lena used to catch up on the drama at the yang family but lately, she had not been focused so much on them. Noah had not also told her about anything interesting. She would need to ask him if the couple really argued.


    "Yeah. I think Andy did not like her spending so much time with my Aunt. You know how crazy my Aunt can be sometimes."


    "Yeah, I know."


    "Aiya! It''s time for my face mask to come off. I talk to you next time baby! I love you. MUAH!"


    Hazel hung up and Lena tossed her phone on the side.


    The Bai or Huang family¡­. Both of them are bad news for her. Lena closed her eyes and shook her head. ''Don''t think about that, think about what you need to do first. One step at a time, Lena¡­''


    Lena got off her bed and went to take a shower. She was leaving early tomorrow. She finally practicing how to shoot a gun with James tomorrow. Ming Zhao had not come back to her about if he had found the gun craftswoman, Reina, yet. Lena was not in a hurry though, she had not even learned how to hold one. She should master how to use one first to impress Reina first.


    As schedules, Lena had breakfast with her parents before heading out. She was driving her own car to meet up with James at the shooting range. She was finally going to ride her Rose again... she had missed her baby girl.


    She drove out to the outer of the city. James had his personal shooting range that he goes to. It was owned by one of his good friends. When Lena arrived, the men looked at her like she was parking in the wrong place. They asked if she was lost. She smiled at them and said no. She made sure to flare her ponytail at them.


    She found James inside already. He was picking out some guns. She walked up to him.


    "Which one is mine?"


    "This one is light but strong. Many women start using this one first." He showed Lena the gun but did not give it to her.


    "When are we going to shoot?"


    "Shoot? We are not shooting today."


    Lena sulked... if they are not shooting, then what are they doing here? James put a few more guns to the bag and carried them. He led Lena to a room. He laid out all the guns in the middle of the large table. He placed their respective ammo with them.


    "To learn how to shoot, you must learn about the guns."


    "Ok." Lena got serious.


    "Even if you will never use another gun, knowing that weapon your enemy using, that is an advantage to you." Lena nodded in agreement. "So I will tell you about each gun here and their qualities. These are just the most commonly used guns."


    James started slowly so Lena could follow his explanations. He would dismantle each gun and put them back, not to tell her to do that, but to tell her how a gun works. Lena would ask questions along the way. Some of them were very stupid questions but James answered them all. He went through them all twice and Lena got most of the information down. They worked through identification. Lena repeated the information back to James.


    After several tries, she finally got all of them correct. James then mixed them up and Lena had to match them. Throughout the entire day, they went over how to use a gun, safety procedures, what to do if something went wrong.

 Chapter 138 - Blindfold

    After the long trip, it was time to go home. Lena still had her meeting with Kris. Since they both drove separately here, they both went their own ways. Lena parked her car in the underground parking lot and head up to her apartment. She took a quick shower and then called Noah to send her the video on the argument between Andy and Eva.


    After the call, her hair was still kind of wet but she went up to Kris'' penthouse regardless. She knocked on the door and Keso immediately opened the door.


    "Hello, Keso!"


    Lena walked in and noticed Kris sitting down on the sofa. A SOFA!!!


    "Mr. Li! Your brain got smarter!"


    Kris scowl at Lena not because she told him that he got smarter, but because she is still calling him Mr. Li. He stood up and walked in front of Lena. "Why do you call me Mr. Li?"


    "Because we are not friends?"


    "Are you friends with Keso?"


    "Keso let me call him Keso, isn''t that right Keso?"


    Keso looked at Kris then back at Lena. He nodded.


    "See, Keso lets me call him Keso."


    Kris was getting irritated by the name Keso. "Then we are friends, you can call me Kris."


    Lena squinted her eyes at Kris¡­. He did get smarter today. She was just gone for 24 hours and Kris has evolved. "Ok. You are allowed to call me Lena too."


    Kris smiled at the approval. He walked back to his decorated living room. He had a team of professional decorate his house in the time that Lena was not here. He felt that since he may be staying here more, he should make this place more lively. He felt kind of sad seeing Lena sit on the ground every time she was tired.


    "Oh¡­ And I sent you your first paycheck too."


    Lena''s eyes lite up. She gave him his bill on Thursday and they had a minor argument on what was valid and what was not valid as pain. Of course, Lena won. Lena was not in need of money, but the more the merrier. She could always buy new dresses. She needed a new dress for the Woman''s Fashion show next week.


    Kris could see that Lena was very happy to receive the money. Did she like money that much? She was not even poor.


    "Let''s play a game." Lena started the session.


    "A game?"


    "Yeah." Lena walked up to Kris. "You will be blindfolded and I will lead you throughout your house. You can get to learn more about your house."


    Kris paused. Him being blindfold. He felt that Lena would do something to him.


    "It will also build your trust for me. Because you have to trust me that I will not lead you into a wall."


    "I am fine with that." Kris smiled.


    Lena does not know that even if Kris was blindfolded, he can tell if he was going to hit a wall or not. The darkness was not an obstacle to his movements. Kris went to his room and brought back a cloth. Keso tied it on Kris'' eyes. Lena moved her hand on his face to make sure that he was fully blind.


    She grabbed his hand and the game began. Kris could feel her warm hand holding his. Her hands were smaller but he gripped her hands so she would not lose him. He closed his eyes, even though he was blindfolded. He could smell the rosey body wash from her. Her hair was still somewhat wet when she came in, so she must have just gotten out of the shower.


    Just a few minutes into the game and Kris already tripped and fell on Lena. In Kris hallway to his bedroom, there is a step that a person has to take. Lena warned Kris where they were going and for him to light up his steps. But somehow, he still tripped and his weight came crashing over Lena.


    "Idiot! I said to lift your feet not slide it."


    Kris was thinking too much about their hands that he did not hear anything Lena said before.


    "You''re heavy. Get up¡­ up!"


    Kris removed his blindfold and saw that he was squishing Lena on the floor. He fell down on her back and she was wiggling like superman on the floor. Kris propped his hands and slowly got off Lena.


    "You are a bad leader." Kris spoke.


    Lena stood up and pat her clothes. "Me?! Put your blindfold back on." Lena put his blindfold back on and tightly tied the knot on the back.


    This time, Lena went so slow¡­ Kris felt like he should drag Lena around the place instead. Each time they entered a room, Lena would ask questions on why things were placed here and tell Kris to feel his setting. After going around the room, Lena would stop holding Kris. She spun him five times and tell him to walk out of the room himself.


    Kris felt like this was another childish game but this was more fun than dancing. After the game, they should be dancing but the dancing room was not full of exercise equipment. Lena shrugged and said that the game was enough.


    "I feel like you don''t need anymore," Lena told Kris as they sat in his living room.


    "Why so?"


    "I think you can touch me fine. I think what you need is to try it with someone else."


    "Yeah." Kris looked up at Keso. Keso had said the same thing to Kris this morning. "I have a business trip tomorrow until Friday."


    "Oh? So I won''t see you then. You should try to work hard... the birthday is coming up soon, right?"


    "Yeah." The birthday was coming up soon. Although Kris felt comfortable with Lena now, he does not know if it is the same with someone else.


    "By the way, you have any guns here?"


    He looked up to Lena. "Why?"


    "Just wondering if you have a secret stash. James is teaching me guns. He said that most men have a secret stash of guns."


    "I do. You wanna see?" Kris stood up. Lena smiled and followed him.


    "Is it hidden in your closet?"


    Kris laughed. "No."


    He walked up the stairs to the rooftop. Lena was more curious where this hidden stash was. When Kris was blindfold, she was already searching his house for a secret button. Kris obviously felt that Lena was acting weird but he did not know that it was about a secret stash of guns.


    They walked to the hot tub. Kris put his arm into the water and hit a lever. At that moment, the hot tube moved from its place secret room with a staircase was seen.


    "This is better than in the dramas."


    Lena followed Kris. The steps down were steep so Kris went first and held a hand for Lena. She took it. Keso also followed them in. He himself has not been in Kris'' secret room. Only Collin and Hugh had.


    When they finally reach the bottom, Lena could see a bunch of guns handing in locked containers. There were several computer screens too. Lena tried to picture where this room would be located relative to Kris'' penthouse but she could now.


    Kris opened a drawer and it displayed a collection of pistols. "You want to hold one."


    "Sure."


    Kris handed a gun to Lena. Lena took it and look to make sure the safety was on. She would not want to shoot something already. The gun was lighter than the ones James showed her earlier today. She looked sideways on the gun and it had an engravement on it, Reina.

 Chapter 139 - Would you beat him up for me?

    "This name¡­ do you know her?" Lena asked.


    "Reina? I don''t know her personally. I had a few guns made by her though."


    "Oh." Lena lifted the gun up and down a few times. "I also want my gun to be made by her."


    "You?" Kris smiled. "You will have to work hard then. She is a hard woman to please in order to get her to make one for you."


    "I know."


    Kris saw the strong determination in Lena''s eyes. Lena pointed the gun straight as if she was going to shoot it. Kris walked behind her. He held her arm that was stretched out and put his other hand on her waist.


    "Your back and arm need to be straighter."


    Lena glanced up to Kris. His face was so close to hers. She adjusted her stance. Kris was stilling holder her extended arm.


    "When you shoot, follow through. Never falter back when you take a shot. Aim, shoot and follow through."


    Kris pulled the held Lena''s finger and help her pulled the trigger. The gun was not loaded and it was on safety so nothing shot out. He let go of Lena and grabbed another gun out.


    "Try holding this one."


    Lena traded the one she was holding and took the other gun. This one was heavier than the other one. This time, Lena held the gun out and did what Kris told her to do before. Kris observed Lena and was quite proud of how quick she learned. He remembered when he first held a gun too, it was natural for him.


    Lena put the gun down and handed it back to Kris. "Do you carry one with you?"


    "No. Not always. A person does not always need a gun for protection. Besides, I have Keso."


    Lena looked at Keso who has been standing there silently. Well, he was always there and standing so silently. Lena often forgets that he was even there in the first place.


    "Can I see your gun? I won''t touch it, I just want to see it."


    Keso took out his gun from its holster. Lena could see that it was probably heavier than the previous ones she had held.


    "Do you have a backup too?"


    Keso bent down and removed his backup from his feet. He handed it to Lena. "You can touch this one."


    Lena grabbed it. It was tinier than the rest she recently used. It was small like the one James showed her this morning. She lifted up her feet and put it on the table. She placed the backup on her thighs and observed it.


    "The girls in the movies have it here¡­ does it really not show up bulky?"


    Keso and Kris laughed.


    "Take skills." Kris replied.


    Lena put her legs down and gave Keso the gun back. They walked back up the stairs and Lena watched the hot tub move back to its original place. It was time for Lena to leave. She picked up her bag and put on her shoes.


    Lena opened the door but turned back to Kris. "Hey, Kris." He looked at her as she called his name. "If my fiance is a jerk, would you beat him up for me?"


    Kris raised his brows. If she has a fiance and he is a jerk?


    "I would." Keso replied before Kris could.


    Lena smiled at the big man. Of course, Keso can take down any man he wants. "Thanks, Keso. You are a very nice person. Goodnight."


    Lena closed the door and she left. Keso stayed a bit longer with Kris as they talked about a few things. Keso told Kris about the Agato Land deal.


    The news broke out on the land and the original owner of the land is currently "investigating" the truth. The bid is currently on hold. Although none of the bidders had repercussions, people are targeting Mayor Bai about the land and what he was going to do about it as a politician and not as a bidder.


    Several others are asking if this would delay his project of constructing the affordable low-income apartments. Although Kris had hope that the downfall would hit the Zhao family, it going back to the Bai family was also a win for him either way.


    "Start slowing releasing for rumors on the corruption of Bai Wentao. Leaked out the file to the proper authorities after the rumors bring enough problem."


    "I will do that."


    Keso left shortly afterward. Kris went to his room. He added more furniture to his house, but he kept his room the same. He liked it this way.


    He went out to the balcony and called Hugh. It took a few rings before Hugh picked up.


    "Are you busy?"


    "Funny you are asking that... You should know fairly well if I am or not."


    Kris smirked. "I have another task for you."


    "What is it?"


    "I need to find out if Lena Shen has a fiance."


    "Lena Shen... her fiance? Why?"


    "If he is a jerk or not."


    "Still... why is that any of your concern?"


    "So I can go beat him up."


    There was a pause from Hugh. "Sure."


    "And your other task? How is that going so far?"


    "Good. Laid the trap and now I just need to wait. Should be done soon."


    "Better be." Kris hung up the call.


    Hugh was the one friend he does not see the most. But their friendship was stronger than any of the others. They have something deeply bonded between them. No one would dare to pick a fight with Kris, but Hugh would not be afraid too.


    Kris still had to pack for his long trip. There are some troubles with his company abroad and he needed to go take care of. It was not anything major, but being physically there fixes the problem faster. Apart from the troubles, he needed to check out this new shipment of his products.

 Chapter 140 - Shooting

    The next day, Lena woke up early to go back to the shooting range. Today, they would start shooting. She had her hair tied up, wore long pants and a nice comfortable shirt. James already prepared the rest of the materials for her.


    James was outside, waiting for Lena. When she parked her car, she quickly got out and followed James to the shooting area. James chose a good starter gun for Lena.


    He gave Lena the gun. "Before you shoot, your posture is very important. The recoil may be intense for you for the first few times, but you will get used to it."


    James stepped back and pulled out a long stick. Lena knew then that she was going to get smack if she did something wrong.


    "You try. I will tell you how your posture is."


    Lena nodded. She put on her eyeglasses. She did not put on her ear protection yet so she can hear James. There was no one else in their shooting range so for now, it was fine not to wear them. She stared at target and raised her arm. She straightens her back like what Kris told her to do yesterday. James was amazed to see such a good first try.


    He tapped her shoulders with the long stick. "Relax a bit. You don''t have to be too aggressive. But don''t go to weak, or you will falter when you shoot."


    He grabbed his gun and went to the stall next to Lena. "Put on your ear protection." Lena did as she was told. "Watch me."


    He slowly raised his arm, looked straight at the target and shot at it. He got a perfect hole to the head of the picture target of a human. After he took the shot, he took off his ear protection and Lena did so too.


    "You see that. Just aim, shoot, and follow-through. However, you won''t be shooting just yet." He walked over to Lena. "I will show you how to pull the trigger properly. It looks easy but there is a proper way to pull a trigger. You don''t want to release it too quickly or hold it too long."


    James changed his gun to something else. The new one was unloaded. "Come close and look at how I pull the trigger."


    Lena moved closer so she can see his finger on the trigger. James pulled it several times until Lena could follow the general motion.


    "You try now." He handed the gun to Lena. Lena followed his motion. She can feel that her fingers get tired after a lot of tries.


    "That''s good. Now you can shoot. Watch me again." They both put their ear protection back on. James grabbed his original gun and stood again. James took three shots at the target. He looked back at Lena and nodded at her.


    Lena took the nod as the signal for her to try now. She grabbed her gun that was loaded. She made sure that the safety was off. Lena took a deep breath. She got back into her posture. She paused before she took a shot at the target.


    She did to falter back that much but it was an intense recoil on her hand. She looked at the target and she did not even hit it.


    "Don''t worry about the aim yet. Shoot a few times so you get used to the recoil." James yelled so she could hear her over the ear protection.


    Lena shot at the target again and again. She tried to get it to hit the target and adjust per position to better balance her body to withstand the recoil from the gun.


    After she emptied the gun, she stopped. She took off her ear protection. "How was it?"


    "Pretty good. How do you feel?"


    "Fine."


    "Shoot another round and we''ll take a break."


    James told her how to reload her gun. They tried that a few times and then Lena went for another round of shooting. After the small break, James taught her how to aim. Even though Lena followed his instructions, she did not do so well. James told her that they will practice more.


    After a good first day, Lena went home in the afternoon. She went back to her apartment to view the videos on the Yang family. She popped some popcorn and sat in the living room to watch the drama she missed.


    Noah already made the video nice for her so she did not need to scan through useless hours of nothing. She played the video. Although there was no voice, she could guess what was mostly happening.


    It looked like Andy showed her about the changes that Lena made on his rings, where he did not want 5 diamonds. Looks like she did not go well with that, knowing that it would not match hers. They argued about more stuff.


    Eva walked out of the room and was angry. Andy, however, sat back on his chair and started working.


    Lena was quite sad... there was no slapping or throwing things. She did not finish her popcorn. She sat back and watched an episode of a drama just to finish her popcorn. After that hour break, she got up to go get her stuff ready for tomorrow.


    She smiled at her tools. Tomorrow will be fun!


    ------


    The next day, Lena went to work as usual. Because she had her meeting with Mike Zhao later at the night, she dressed up normal for work. The production for Eva''s and Andy''s rings will be done on Wednesday. Lena did not want to notify them, she wanted to deliver them personally to Eva.


    Lena got off work early so she could go get extra pretty for the night. She came home and hop into the shower. She dried her hair and curled it nicely. She put a somewhat heavy make-up. For her dress tonight, she wore a wine red, off-the-shoulder dress. The bottom flared down, just a few centimeters above her knees.


    She put on a 4-inch, black high heels. She fancied the rest of herself with jewelry. Lena got a nice pendant on her neck, two rings on her right hand, and a pair of ruby earrings. She did not forget an alluring perfume on herself before going down to the parking lot.


    Lena would be driving herself to meet up with Mike, but James should be there already to set things up. With her sexy get-up, she matched perfectly with her Rose.


    She arrived at the different five-star restaurant than the one they had met before. This one had a hotel above it. The hotel and restaurant were also owned by the Zhao family. Of course, Lena already did her research ahead and knew that Mike Zhao already booked a room for them.


    James already went in to clear the room. Knowing how dirty the man played, he must have cameras set up in the room.


    Lena drove her car upfront and got out. She tossed the keys to the young valet boy. She gave him a nice tip, making sure he takes good care of her car. She walked in and went to the restaurant front area. They immediately noticed Lena as she walked closer to them and they quickly came to greet her.


    "Miss. Shen, Mr. Zhao is already waiting for you."


    Lena smiled at the young waitress. "Ok."


    The waitress led Lena to a small private outdoor dining area. Lena could see that Mike Zhao was dressed very well and already sipping on some wine as he waited for her. He stood up when he saw Lena coming his way.


    "Lena!"


    Lena walked up to him and greeted him intimiately. She came close up to him, giving him a slight western greeting by kissing the man slightly on his cheeks.


    "I hope I did not make you wait too long." She smiled.


    "No. Not at all. You look..." He observed Lena from top to bottom and back up. "very stunning tonight."


    Lena gave him a slight pushed on his shoulder. "Oh don''t you worry, I''ll look more stunning later on."


    The man''s eye glistened from that note. He pulled out the chair for Lena to sit on then went back to his own seat.

 Chapter 141 - It wont hurt

    They ordered their food and Lena drank just a few of the wine. Since she was acting already "willing," she knew that the man did not think about doing something more dirty to her. She took her time to talk with Mike, always glancing at the time. James said he needed about 30 minutes to clear the room and set the items up.


    20 minutes in, the food came back. Lena had a chicken salad. She promised herself a big meaty meal after this.


    "So... do you have the items?" Lena asked.


    "Of course. They are in the room already."


    Lena smiled cheerfully at him. "Can''t wait.... for you that is.. not them."


    Lena could feel that guy rushing to eat but she took her own little sweet time to enjoy her beautiful salad. When they were done with their meal, Lena excused herself to the restroom. She told him that she will meet him in the room. He told her the room number, 426.


    Lena went to the washroom and washed her hands. She made sure everything on her was intact. She reapplies her lipstick before going up to the fourth floor. James texted her already that everything was set and he would be near if Lena needed him to interfere. Again, they always had an emergency word.


    Lena walked up to the door, she pressed her left ear to turn on the mic and then knocked on the door. Mike quickly opened the door for her.


    "I was thinking you had forgotten about me." He spoke and eyed Lena once again. Mike already took out his outer suit jacket and loosened his tie.


    "I would not dare to." She walked into the room.


    Mike quickly shut the door and pushed Lena''s back to it. He went in for a kiss but Lena quickly put a finger over his mouth to stop him.


    "Not too fast... business first, then pleasure."


    "Aish... very well then, my princess."


    Mike let go of Lena and walked to the table. He took out a big suitcase and opened it. He sat down and crossed his arms. "It''s all here, what you ordered. Can we start now?"


    Lena walked behind him and placed her hands on his shoulders. She bent down and whispered in his ears. "You''re an impatient one, aren''t you. Let me massage you and you tell me what each of them are again."


    Lena seductively rubbed his shoulders. "It''ll excite me." She blew into his ears and stood up and massage his shoulders.


    Mike opened a bag and took out a small syringe. "This white liquid is the Whiteout. Just a small shot and the person will knockout and not remember what they did in the past 24 hours." He placed it down.


    He picked up a small vial with a blue liquid in it. "This here... if a man can''t get it up, this will make him get it up." He turned slightly to look up at Lena. "Don''t worry though, I don''t need it."


    "How is it different from the pill? Other than just for men?"


    "It''s my personal creation. Of course, it would be better than the pill." He smiled proudly at the vial. "And if a man ends too quickly? Use this too, he''ll last a few more rounds. Again, I don''t need it."


    Lena smiled at him. ''Yeah.. sure you don''t need any, you probably drank a ton before I came in here..''


    Lena looked back in the suitcase and something spotted her eyes. "What is that bottle?"


    "This?" Mike picked up the white bottle. "Poison."


    "What kind?"


    "You have someone that you won''t kill?" Mike asked her.


    Lena stopped massaging him and moved to sit next to him. "Of course, that idiot brother of yours. I only asked for a small favor and he sent me out the door like some useless trash. He''s worthy to kill" Lena knew that saying Ming was worthy would get on the good side of Mike. Lena placed her hand on his lap. "I am glad you''re not like him."


    "Of course... I am better than him. He thinks that just because he is in charge of the Crystal project, he is stronger than me."


    "So... how does the poison work?"


    "Take a small pinch and put it in a drink or the food. It''s odorless and dissolves in liquid so it is not detectable. Just use it over a few weeks and by the time you know it, the person will randomly die in their sleep."


    Lena grabbed the bottle from Mike and looked at it. "Have you used it yet?"


    "Not yet... but I will soon."


    "On who? Your brother?"


    "Heh..." He pinched Lena''s nose. "You don''t need to worry about that."


    Lena stood up and started taking off her shoes. She made sure to wear a complicated shoe.


    "Have you sell that to anyone else?"


    "Not yet...." Mike swallowed as he stair at Lena take off one pair of her shoes and threw it at the side of the sofa.


    "Not even Eva?" Lena finished taking off the other pair. She walked to him and held his tie.


    "No.. but I met with her yesterday. She wanted a refill on the pills."


    The pills. Last time, Lena accidentally took the entire thing so Eva must need more.


    "Refill?" Lena laughed. "How can she afford another one?"


    "She can''t." Mike stood up and held Lena''s waist. "She uses..." Mike rubbed his hand on Lena''s arm. "the other method."


    Lena''s heart smiled and ignored what he just did to her arm. "Like last time?" Lena wanted to know if it was Eva or Madam Yang who paid for the first product.


    "Naw... her benefactor paid the full amount last time. Guess she must have pissed that person off and can''t afford it this time." So somehow, someone did give her the money. Could it be from the Bai family or an offshore account of Madam Yang? She would need to trace the money deeper.


    "Oh? I see..." Lena took off his tie and walked to the bed, swinging the tie around. She sat on the bed and spread her leg just a bit. Her dress was still covering her but the move would definitely taunt the man. "C'' mon. I paid you the full amount. Give me something juicy to hear."


    Mike laughed at Lena''s seduction. "The bitch was not even a virgin, don''t know how many times she has done it but she was way too loose yesterday."


    That was indeed a juicy piece of information. Lena smirked but removed the smile immediately and played a cute face. "It''s my first time."


    Mike walked over and placed his hands on the side of Lena. "Don''t worry... it won''t hurt."


    Lena scooted her butt back and laid on the bed. Mike took it as the sign that it was finally time. He crawled up to her. Lena placed her right hand on his neck.


    "Too sad... you''re going to hurt though."


    Lena used her thumb to pressed a trigger on her ring index finger and the ring stuck a needle sharply into the neck of Mike. He jerked back up and turned his head.


    "What the ---" He quickly fell to his side and laid still on the bed. His eyes were still opened but his body did not move at all. Lena looked at him and stood up from the bed. She patted herself.


    "Phew... I was wondering when I could stop pretending."


    "Enhhhh" Mike grunted.


    Lena walked up to the side of the bed and help turned Mike''s body so his back was flat on the bed. He was staring at the ceiling now. He saw how cunning Lena''s face was.


    "Aw... don''t worry. It''s only a small sedative. Your muscles are asleep but you can still see, feel, and hear. Isn''t that good?" Lena walked to her purse and pulled out a large syringe. She winked at the men in the bed. "Just a few more shots, I promise. We were playing doctor, right?"

 Chapter 142 - Tiny Worm

    Lena also took out a pair of latex gloves and put them on. Lena could feel that Mike was afraid of her and he should be. She opened the cap of the syringe and pressed a bit of the liquid out. Lena stuck the needle in his arm but then suddenly pulled it back out. Mike screamed but it was very soft.


    "Sorry... I am not really good a this. We''ll go plan B." Lena instantly jabbed the needle to his leg, released all the liquid, and then removed it from the flesh. "That was easier than trying to find a vein."


    Lena put the used syringe in a plastic bag. "Now... that was the only thing I brought. Let''s see what you brought today!" Lena walked to the suitcase filled with weird products. She immediately grabbed out what she originally purchased only from the suitcase. Mike already had her items in a separate bag.


    Lena used the paycheck that Kris gave her to pay for all these items. Dirty money must go back to dirty people. Lena also placed a microphone inside the suitcase, making sure it was hidden well.


    If Lena took more than what she ordered, when Mike wakes up... it will be suspicious. Lena removed one of the Whiteouts from her order. She brought it over to Mike so he can see what she was going to do.


    "Congratulation customer, you will be the first one to try this amazing medicine." Lena removed the cap from the small syringe. "You won''t remember anything from today anyways, so you don''t need to worry about what I injected in you before. It''s for the world''s own good."


    This time, Lena stabbed him in the shoulder. She made sure to do it in an area that was not easily seen. She put the syringe back in the bag where she put the other one. When she turned back to look at Mike, he was dead asleep. Lena checked his pulse just to make sure he was not dead.


    She stuffed her evidence in her purse, which she made sure it was a big handbag today.


    "I''ll be out soon, James. I need to go order a take out for me." Lena spoke through the mic. She pushed the earring and turned it off. She removed them and placed it in her bag.


    She almost left but forgot to remove the clothes from Mike. She placed her bag down and stripped the guy entirely naked. She stared at his tiny little worm in disgust.


    "Ew.. so tiny." She covered it quickly with the blanket. "Ugh.." She shook out the scene from her mind. She ruffled the bed sheets a bit and it was a good crime scene. She looked out the door''s peephole to make sure no one was in the hallway before she goes out.


    Lena grabbed her bag on the floor and opened the door. However, it felt like the door was stuck. Lena yanked it hard and it opened.


    "Hello, Dr. Shen. I am here for my appointment."


    "You---"


    Lena stared at the smiling man in front of her.


    "Why are you here?!"


    He laughed. "I heard my brother was too small for your needs so I came here to redeem the Zhao family name."


    "Ming Zhao, you disgusting bastard!" Lena walked to go past him but he blocked her with his long arm.


    "Are you not going to invite me in? Unless you want to check me out here instead, I am fine with that."


    "You--" Lena pointed her a finger at him. She was going to go under his arm but she heard some voices down the hallway. "Damn you."


    She dragged the man inside and closed the door. She looked at the peephole to see the people who were walking down the hallway. Ming went up close to her, trying to see out of the peephole too.


    "Are they gone?" He asked.


    Lena pushed him away from her. He was stealing her view. Through the peephole, she saw a couple who were laughing and they walked past the door. She turned around to see what Ming was up to.


    "What are you really doing here?" She questioned.


    Ming ignored her question and walked up to Mike. He stared at his unconscious half-brother. "Wow, you really did him good." He lifted up the blanket to peek at the worm. "Yep... a disgrace to the family."


    Lena put her hand on her head. ''Why is he here?!''


    Ming was somewhat amused at the irritation he was giving Lena. "Relax... it was all planned."


    She looked up to him. "What do you mean?"


    "Did you think I would really send you to him just because I did not want to do it myself? A fierce tigress like you would definitely do something like this to him."


    "So you knew..."Lena thought that she played Mike pretty well, but she was also played by Ming.


    "I thought you were going to beat him up though. But I guess you are smarter than that. Good job."


    Lena relaxed a bit. She was only caught by Ming but they were on the same side so it''s all good.


    "How did you even know I was here?" Lena asked.


    "Easy." Ming walked to her. "I own this place. If you can find out that Mike was using this room, so can I."


    Ming went to close the curtains a bit more. "I did not expect James to remove all of the cameras in the room. But luckily..." Ming went to the suitcase and pulled out his own microphone from it. "great minds think alike."


    He put the microphone back into the suitcase.


    Lena rolled her eyes at him. "You still have not told me what you are doing here."


    "Many of our research inventories were not matching up. Mike may have been able to hide it from the workers but not me. I have worked too long in the company to know that something was wrong."


    "Wouldn''t your dad know about it too?"


    "Yeah.. but I covered it up."


    "Why would you help that idiot?"


    Ming pulled out a small blue vial from his pocket and traded it with the one in Mike''s suitcase. "Becuase if he is exposed too early, he can easily blame it on an older employee. Make an excuse that he is new to the department."


    Ming opened the container of the poison and took a sample of it. "If I want to get rid of him, I need to gather enough mistakes that he made and then exposed him all at once."


    Ming already got Mike''s family hidden in City A. His son already had a successful surgery and the mom is willing to cooperate with Ming. She told him that she did not need the money he paid her. Having her son alive was enough for her to help Ming take down her evil husband.


    Ming stood up after he was done collecting his own evidence. He could not do this earlier when he implanted the microphone because Mike came back to the room to quick.


    "So... doctor, are you going to examine me or not?"


    "Sure... take off your pants. Let''s see how amazing the Zhao family genes are."

 Chapter 143 - Fat blondie

    Ming Zhao stopped joking around. He looked at Lena and she was not joking about him removing his pants. "Are you serious?"


    "Of course!" Lena beckoned him to remove it.


    Ming Zhao crossed his hands and placed it above his man part. "I am unmarried, you can''t do that to me."


    "I am a doctor. There is no such thing." Lena rushed forward and grabbed his pants and tried to push it down.


    Ming Zhao did not expect her to be so bold! He grabbed her hands to stop her from removing his pants. He was able to get a hold of one of her hand. He raised it and turned her around.


    Lena used her empty hand to elbow Ming in the stomach. He bent over a bit from the pain. She took the opportunity to grab his arm, goes around him and pulled it harm.


    "Yah! It hurts!" Ming screamed.


    Lena did not care. She kicked him in the knee and he fell down. Lena sat on top of his back and pulled more of his arm.


    "I give up! It hurts!"


    Lena''s wrestling with Kris had paid off for her hard work. Ming did not expect Lena to be so physically cunning too.


    "Tell me that I am the best." Lena commanded.


    "You are the best!" Lena pulled his arm more. "I said you''re the best already... let me goo."


    "Say that you have a small ding ding."


    "I''m not going---"


    Lena gripped the back of his neck with one hand and pressed on the pressure points.


    "Ah...I am not going to say that. I''ll buy you food. I''ll buy you food!!"


    Lena loosened her grip on his neck. "For a week."


    "For a week."


    Lena smiled. Her fridge was still empty and her schedule is so packed that she does not have time yet to go fill it up. Without seeing Kris for a while, she was not able to charge him so free food for a week was a good deal for her.


    Lena got off him and cracked her neck. Ming was huffing and puffing from the pain. He got up and massage his shoulder. Lena was a monster! She did not withhold any strength when she pulled his arm.


    She made sure that nothing fell out of her bag as she tackled Ming on the floor. She fixed her hair and looked back at the unhappy man.


    "Hurry up, I am hungry."


    "Tsk." He rolled his eyes at her.


    Lena made sure the coast was clear before they walked out of the room and toward the elevator. When they got inside, James texted Lena that he was outside waiting for her already.


    Ming looked down at the Lena. "You know... in the past, bringing you with food was the easiest way to stop you."


    "In the past... pretty sure I don''t know you in the past."


    "Don''t know me?" Ming walked up to Lena and pushed her to the corner. "You and Hazel always made fun of me."


    Lena shook her head. "No.. we only made fun of ugly men and I am---" Lena paused. She looked at his blonde hair and a memory struck her.


    She gasped and put both hands to cover her mouth. "Fat blondie?"


    When Lena and Hazel were young, they made fun of many boys that went to school with Lena. There was one particular boy that Hazel always made fun of because he was chubby and his hair was yellow. They gave him the nickname Fat Blondie. Back then, Lena was still young and followed everything Hazel did.


    Fat blondie would bribe Lena with chocolate so she brings Hazel away not to bully him. On the days that he forgot to bring her treats, Lena would play with his hair. She would tie it up with rubber bands and put lipgloss on his lips. There were a few times she painted his nails too.


    Why did Lena not recall him until now? Of course, such memory of that young boy was insignificant for her. Lena tried to compare the young Ming Zhao to the current one standing in front of her. She removed her hands for her mouth as the elevator door opened.


    Ming stepped out first and Lena followed. She was still eyeing him, trying to comprehend how the little chubby boy was now a handsome young man. Even after disregarding the weight difference... his entire face is so different from then and now. Did he get plastic surgery?


    "You got skinnier?!" Lena pointed out.


    Ming turned around and poke Lena on the forehead. "I have gotten skinny since forever. It was just that one year and you traumatized my childhood for life."


    Lena felt for Ming. The old Lena was indeed a big bad bully. And here she was, still bullying him... for different reasons of course. Ming crossed her line first, she needed to revive her dignity for him playing her.


    If Ming Zhao was with them when they were small, then he might know who her first fiance is! "You remember the other boys'' name? Anyone from the Bai or the Huang family?"


    "No." He starts walking again.


    "Wait a minute... were we engage when we were small?" Lena stopped walking and looked at him in surprise.


    Ming stopped too and turned around to face her. "Of course! But you chose that tall skinny dude over a fat blondie. That was the best day of my life, to be honest. My prayers were answered and I did not have to marry a nightmare."


    "Nightmare?! But you might still have to marry me!" She raised her voice.


    "Aiya... I would not marry you in a million years." Ming waved his hands in a no-no motion, not catching what Lena was trying to say to him. He stopped suddenly as he recalled something.


    After the annulment with the Shen family, his grandfather accepted a different marriage proposal from the Bai family. Their daughter would be marrying the Zhao''s first son. Since Ming is no longer technically the first son of the Zhao family, then it would be valid that what Lena was talking about could be true.


    Ming backed away from Lena. "Don''t come near me."


    "...."


    "No dinner today. I need to go speak with my father." Ming turned around and head back out to the front entrance in a run.


    "Make sure to tell him I don''t wanna marry you too!" Lena screamed at the top of her lungs, hopefully, Ming heard it too.


    A few people looked at her but she ignored them. She had already lost her appetite so she ran the same way Ming disappeared to. James was indeed already waiting for her. She opened the back door and hopped in.


    "Let''s go. This place is cursed."


    James looked back at Lena and was confused. He did not ask any more question from her. He knew that her mind was somewhere else.

 Chapter 144 - Evas impurity

    James dropped Lena at her apartment. She left her car at the area but she will go get it back tomorrow. She was in a hurry to leave, she forgot her baby, Rose.


    When she got home, she made sure to continue to nag Ming to keep her updated about the situation. He had not replied back to her. However, Tye sent her an attached document through a secure email. This must be the information Lena requested about Eva''s medical records.


    Lena put the items she ordered in a locked area and went to get her laptop. She took the laptop and went back to her detective room. She pulled up the board and her web of conspiracy showed up. She needed to update her information.


    The "Li mistress" is confirmed but she is dead, so Lena made a big X on the picture. To fully bring Madam Yang down, they need to get rid of her legs, and those are her connection to the Bai family and Eva or Andy. Eva was too gullable but Lena might be able to turn Andy against his own mother. It would be hard, but Lena knew that she can do it.


    And if she does it the way she planned to do it, she may still save the man from a bad ending. Just because the man chose the wrong person to love, does not mean his entire life is doomed. Look at Lena, she was given a second chance. Love makes you do the impossible, she knew that she had some many stupid things for Andy.


    She turned on her laptop and opened the file that Tye sent her. In his email, he stated that Eva''s medical records were highly secured and that he had to go through private ways to obtain them.


    He was able to get her records from the shooting accident too. Although the public knew that she was not in the hospital long during that time, her private records state otherwise. She was getting treatment by a private practice.


    Just recently though, Eva did get visit an OB/GYN clinic. There was not much information on the visit but she did get prescribed some birth control.


    Lena was confused, was Eva not trying to get pregnant? Unless what Mike said was true, that she was a used woman and she needed to protect herself from that life.


    The easiest way for Andy to turn against his mother would be using Eva. If Eva is colluding with the crazy mom, then Andy would not stand with them. Lena needed for Eva to break down.


    The rings would be done in two days, Lena would use the opportunity to taunt the woman.


    ------


    It was the next day already. By noon, Mike Zhao was just waking up from his long nap. He still had his eyes closed but he felt a soft and beautiful scent by him. He must have a rough night yesterday with a lovely lady. He smiled and turned his head closer to the warmth.


    "Are you awake baby?"


    Mike suddenly opened his eyes from a deep voice. He jerked his body off the bed and noticed that he was entirely naked. "It''s a trap!"


    "Me.. a trap? Baby, you called me sexy all night long, do you not remember?" The man stroked Mike''s face.


    Mike hurriedly picked up his clothes and them on. He grabbed his wallet and pulled out a load of cash and tossed them to the person on the bed. He went and opened his suitcase and everything seems to be there. He tried to recall what he did yesterday but he did not remember anything at all.


    He only knew that it was Monday so he should have met with Lena. How did he end up here though?


    He dragged his suitcase out with him and left.


    The man stood up from the bed and collected the money Mike threw at him. He picked up his phone and dialed it. The other person picked up the call.


    "He just woke up. He doesn''t remember anything."


    "That''s good. I''ll transfer the money to you now."


    "Anything for you. If you need me again, you know where to contact me. Of course, anyday with you is free."


    Ming hung up the phone. He was was in the elevator going up to see Lena. He did not notify her ahead but he brought lunch with him. He got up to the floor and Diane quickly greeted the man.


    "Mr. Zhao, are you here to see Miss. Shen?"


    "I brought her lunch."


    "I will inform her," Diane spoke.


    "No need. She should know that I was coming since I owe her." Diane let Ming go.


    Ming did not knock on the door and just entered. He spotted Lena working diligently on a new design.


    "Didn''t I told you not to bother me?" Lena spoke without looking her from her work. The design came to her when she was sleep last night and she wanted to finish it before it fades away from her mind.


    "Did you?"


    Lena stopped her sketching and looked at Ming. What caught her eyes was the bag of food he was carrying. "Fat blondie!"


    Ming stared daggers at Lena. "Can you not call me that? I will start calling you something horrible too."


    "My bad. Slip of the tongue." Lena got up from her chair to get a close look at the bag of food. "Did you bring me lunch?"


    "I did." Ming raised his hand up to show the bag to Lena. "Let''s eat."


    "Ok."


    Lena walked to her eating room that was attached to her office. She did not want to eat on the office table because the smell might distract her work later on. Ming followed her in. He placed the bag on the table and opened the contents of it.


    Lena gasped. "SEAFOOD!"


    Ming lifted his lip a bit. Lena used to choose food over dresses until she was brainwashed by the Hazel and Andy. When Lena had her eyes on Andy, she stopped handing out with the boys and started targeting the girls that got close to Andy instead.


    Lena took the first bite. She closed her eyes and savored the taste. This was definitely from a high-end restaurant. Lena was not going to let Ming treat her to anything cheaper than what she could afford.


    "I think we should get married."


    Lena stopped chewing and cough on the food. ''MARRIED?! When did "I would not marry you in a million years turned into I do?!''

 Chapter 145 - Make you fall in love with me

    Ming poured a cup of water and passed it to Lena. "Maybe I said that wrong. I just think we should try."


    "I don''t believe you. Now that you are skinny, handsome, and rich, you will bully me instead."


    Ming raised his brow. "Is that the kind of man you think I am?" Ming was not going to lie... he did have that idea passed his mind at one point. "I would never treat a woman so low."


    Lena drank all her water. "I don''t understand a few things. Aren''t you already engaged? And even so, what made you change your mind so quick?"


    "Mike Zhao." Ming poured some water for him and took a drink. "After our engagement was annulled, the Zhao and Bai family made a pact. They arrange marriage states that the eldest son of the Zhao family will marry the eldest daughter of the Bai family."


    "So... Since you are not the eldest anymore, Mike Zhao''s bride is the young miss Bai?" Lena finished the thought for him.


    "Correct." Ming took a bite of food and scoops a big prawn for Lena. "If you were to be mine, then my powers would match his."


    "You want to marry me for power?" Lena did not like the sound of that at all. This was the same thing as last time Ming talked to her about being a fake girlfriend. But this time, it was not fake.


    "No. That''s just a small benefit. I would not just marry someone because it only benefits me. Marriage is not a game. I think you would be a really good wife. You are pretty, smart, and you know to behave yourself."


    "I--" Lena was going to say that she was not a good wife... but she is! She had spent her entire years with Andy to be the perfect wife. She will be the perfect wife for anyone she marries!


    "You''re not the same as you were in the past. I am also not the same as I was in the past. Humans are bound to make mistakes. Only those who are strong enough can pick themselves up and become better."


    "I won''t marry you," Lena spoke firmly. "I won''t marry a man I am not in love with."


    Ming softly chuckled. "So... I just need to make you fall in love with me?"


    Lena blushed from that comment. That was a direct line from a drama, he can''t use that line on her! "It''s not that easy to make me fall in love with you!" She declared.


    "I know what kind of woman you are."


    "How can you know what kind of woman I am? I don''t even know what kind of woman I am."


    "That''s why it would be fun. I will show you what kind of woman you are." Ming stood up a bit from his seat and steal a piece of food from Lena''s plate.


    "Hey! That''s mine."


    "See. That worked. Are you falling in love with me yet? You''re blushing..." He smiled at Lena''s flushed face.


    "I am not blushing. I am angry. Angry from your nonsense."


    Ming laughed. "I won''t tease you anymore. Finish your food, I will leave first." Ming stood up from his seat.


    "Wait." Lena called out. "Why did you fall in love with Eva Wu?"


    Ming turned around with a big grin. "Lena, are you jealous already? We have not started dating yet. It''s okay, I am faithful to one woman only."


    Lena put a hand on her forehead and looked down. This guy was giving her a headache. "I am not jealous. I am very curious." She looked back up to him.


    "She makes me forget how ugly the world is. She makes me remember that there are still some good things in the world. She didn''t need my money, nor my power. She accepted me regardless of my flaws. She was so delicate that you just want to protect every single hair on her. Her words make my day brighter.


    But that is not her now. You can''t always protect her. A parent will need to let go of their child someday. Eva was not made to be up here, she should have stayed in her perfect little world. Her white sheets are tainted with black and red. In her mind now, she competes with the rest of us for money, power, and love. Some people change for the good, others for the worse."


    Lena stayed silent and listened to him. Everything Ming said about Eva was true. She was a sweet gentle girl who is now possessed by a demon. It is too late for her to turn back now. Such a pity.


    Ming opened the door and walked out. He turned around to face Lena again. "And I am serious when I said I will make you fall in love with me. But I am not a desperate man. I''ll give you a few weeks to think about it."


    Ming closed the door and left. Lena looked at the door and then back at the table where all the delicious food was left for her to eat.


    Lena sighed and walked to the sink. Her eating room has a fridge and a sink. She splashed water on her face and looked at her reflection from a small mirror on the side of the sink.


    Her cheeks were slightly pink. Her heart warmed up not because of Ming but what he said. As a young woman who always dreamed about her perfect prince charming saying "I will make you fall in love with me," it was romantic in her mind. But somehow, she did not expect such a thing to happen in reality.


    So it did catch her off guard. Lena placed a hand on her heart. She felt that it was beating normal.


    Lena once squealed over falling for the second lead. Ming Zhao was the second lead of Eva''s story. At one point in time, she did consider him but through all the bumps she had experienced, love has not crossed her mind until recently.


    But why would she choose the second lead of someone else''s story... wouldn''t it be the second lead in her story? But if she choose her second lead then wouldn''t that be the male lead?


    Lena pounded her head on the sink. This second lead syndrome was confusing. She looked back at the mirror. To hell with it... she will know when she falls in love again.

 Chapter 146 - Stella Feng

    Lena ate all the food that was supposed to feed two people. She did not care though because eating made her think better. Lena cleaned up her eating area and went back to finish the design she was working on before Ming interrupted her.


    Diane knocked on Lena''s door and entered. "Miss. Shen, remember that you have an appointment with your therapist soon."


    Lena had forgotten that she made an appointment with Stella Feng, whom Tye recommended for Lena. She told Diane to make an appointment for her a few days ago. Lena was surprised that Stella was able to fit in Lena so quickly. Most of the times, it would take about a few weeks before they can fit into a new patient.


    "Thanks, I''ll be done soon."


    Lena saved her progress and grabbed a few files before leaving her office. James followed her out and they left to go see the amazing female therapist that Tye recommended.


    Stella has a private office in a large building. When Lena entered the floor, she was nicely greeted. Lena was an early and Stella was currently still with a patient. Lena sat down on the sofa and so did James. She picked up a magazine and looked through it.


    A few minutes later, the office door to Stella''s opened. Stella said goodbye to the patient and glanced at Lena. She walked toward her.


    "You must be my 4 o''clock."


    Lena stood up. "Yes. Lena Shen." She extended her hand. Stella took it and they shook hands.


    "Come on in."


    Lena placed back her magazine and followed Stella in. James sat outside to wait for them. When Lena entered the room, she looked around. The window was perfectly opened, not too wide or too little. The atmosphere was welcoming and comfortable. There were no heavy designs nor nothing that gives throw off the setting.


    "Take a seat wherever you feel comfortable."


    Lena looked at Stella. "Can I sit on the ground?" If Lena feels nervous, the ground was her thinking comfort.


    "Anything that works for you." Stella did not give Lena any weird faces. She had seen a fair share of patients.


    Lena sat on the ground and placed her back on the long sofa. There was a single seat sofa across the long one. That must be where Stella usually sits. Stella also went down and sat on the floor with Lena.


    "My name is Stella Feng, but you can just call me Stella. Can I call you Lena?" Lena nodded and Stella continued. "Good. Calling each other by our first names will close the gap of uncomfortableness.


    "There is a bathroom right there. Water is on top of the mini-fridge and there are cold ones inside it. The trash is next to the side there. The tissue is on the table. These are just some simple things that you should familiarize yourself with just in case you ever need them." Stella took a deep breath from her long explaination. "But considering all the things that I heard from Dr. Tye, you should be fine." She smiled at Lena.


    "This is your first time seeing a therapist?" Stella asked and Lena nodded.


    "I am here to help you. The entire hour we have together, it is your time. You can talk about nothing or talk about anything. Everything talked between us is 100% confidential and only between us. I do not record nor take down any notes. There are some exceptions but in your case, you don''t need to worry about that.


    I do want to clarify that although Dr. Tye and I are close, anything you said here will not be shared to him. He has his dirty ways to get information but I am too hefty of a woman for him to touch."


    Lena smiled at that comment. She was liking this therapist already.


    "As I said before, this time is yours. I usually suggest we start with some small ice breakers questions to get comfortable with each other. But the floor is all yours."


    Lena chuckled. "I don''t even know if I need a therapist. I feel that I have been dealing with the trauma from both of my kidnapping quite well."


    "Therapists don''t always work with trauma only. We can help you evaluate simple life decisions or talk about minor things that are causing you to feel stressed, happy, angry, or sad. There are times where you have nothing to talk about and you can just tell me what you did today."


    "Then I have a lot of those." Lena paused and decide where she wanted to begin. For sure, she was not going to mention her death and rebirth and how she ended up here. "If you are close with Dr. Tye, then do you know about his group of friends?"


    "Group of friends? I am guessing you are talking about Collin, Kris, Keso, Hugh, and Lay."


    "Yes, them."


    "I am fairly close to them all."


    "So... Do you know about the condition of Kris?" Lena wanted to know, so if she does talk about Kris and how she was helping him, it would be safe for her to do so.


    "I was part of his treatment for a few times with Dr. Tye, so I know a good amount about his condition. Just so you know though, I won''t expose anything about Kris too if you have any questions regarding him."


    "Oh no. I just needed to know how much you know so I don''t start talking and exposing information that I should not. It was just a question for next time."


    Next time... Stella thought that Lena would begin her talk with Kris. Tye has mentioned that Lena was helping Kris with his therapy and it was going really well.


    Lena cleared her throat. She was kind of nervous to ask the next question but she really needed this piece of information out of her mind. "What does it mean when you kiss someone when your drunk? Like... really kiss them."

 Chapter 147 - Self-evaluation

    "When a person is drunk, their inhibition declines. Their brain is not functioning the same as if they were sober. Hence why there are strict laws against drunk driving. There are several reasons why you did what you did but the brain is an amazing and complicated organ of itself. How do you feel about the kiss?"


    "I feel guilty, ashamed, and embarrassed about it. I pretended to the person that I don''t recall any of it when I remembered all of it."


    "Do you perhaps have feelings toward the person you kissed?"


    "No, I don''t." Lena replied bluntly. "If I liked him, I think I would be more ecstatic about kissing him rather than feeling guilty and ashamed. And I have been deeply in love with someone before. I think if I feel in love again, I would not lie to myself about it. Love is a great thing when done correctly and if you ignore that feeling, it will slowly eat your brain."


    Lena paused and adjusted her sitting position on the floor. "If I ignore the person entirely in the equation, the kiss was damn good though."


    "How is your sexual life? That''s a bit personal but it might be why you kissed someone. A feeling of lust or sexual desire to do it."


    Lena paused to ponder again. SHE HAS NO SEXUAL LIFE!!


    "None. I will only do such a thing with a person I genuinely love, that is if I am not drunk. I watched those bad videos once and it ruined my mind forever."


    Stella chuckled in her heart. It was not every time a patient is very honest during their first session together. "Woman can watch those too. Could that possibly sparked a self-experience that you have never considered?"


    Lena was quite so Stella continued. "Some young woman get exposure to their own body desires when they are educated about sex in school. Others get curious when they are in a serious relationship. Maybe for you, you only felt the desire now because you want to start a family?"


    "I do want a family. I want lots of kids.. like 6."


    Stella was surprised Lena wanted so many kids. These days, most woman only wanted 1 or 2. "So maybe the question is not exactly why you kissed a man while you were drunk, but maybe self-realization about the mental changes your body is going through. It''s just like experiencing your first period or going through puberty."


    Again... Lena was still quiet. She was processing the evaluation and question that Stella was giving her and trying to see if it was true. Lena felt that her desire to hug, kiss, or be near a man may be due to her heavy unconscious desire to be in a strong romantic relationship and start a family in the future.


    "I think I understand now." Lena spoke.


    "Are you sure? We can talk more to explore this if you want to."


    "No. I am feeling a bit embarrassed... let''s go backward and talk about you."


    "Sure." Stella replied. Building a comfortable relationship with the patient can allow them to trust his/her therapist more. Stella often talked about herself but she always made sure not to go into too many details. She liked to keep her private life away from her work life too. "What would you like to know about me?"


    "I don''t really know where to start."


    "Well, how about something we both can connect with? I met Dr. Tye when he did a lecture for my class. I could not believe such a young man was an accomplished doctor at his age."


    "Ah... I met Tye when he came to my house with Collin because Kris took some bad pills."


    Stella was a bit shocked. Tye did not tell her much about what Lena''s role in Kris'' therapy was but it seems like Lena has seen the worse of Kris.


    "So Collin was there?"


    "Yeah. He is my emergency contact for anything relating to Kris. I feel like he''s the big dad of the group. Keso is the big brother. Kris... well he is like the baby. He cries randomly and is happy at other times. Lay is the dog who wags its tail and follow the baby everywhere. Tye... he''s like the mom. And Hugh... he''s the ghost that haunts the house."


    Stella laughed a bit. "Why is Hugh the ghost?"


    Lena was more relaxed now that they had changed the topic. "I have never seen him before but his name always gets a mention from time to time."


    "That makes sense. I have never seen him too, but I have talked to him before."


    "Oh, I was thinking that he was an imaginary friend. Good to know that he is real."


    Lena finished her session with Stella. Although they went a bit off-topic, Lena felt that she trusted Stella more. She will prepare more for Stella next time. They would meet every Tuesday for one hour at 4 p.m. until Lena feels a bit better then they can meet bi-weekly instead.


    Lena left the office at 5 p.m. James drove Lena to the Zhao hotel so she can go drive her car back home.


    -------


    Andy just got off work. There was another scandal going on with one of his artists and he had to take care of that. It was 10 past 5. Eva and he got into an argument a few days ago and had not made up yet. He wondered if she was still angry at him.


    Their argument was some stupid stuff over the rings. He did not want the five diamonds on his ring and Eva told him that he needed it to make the rings match.


    Andy was driving but he called Eva. After a few ring, Eva picked up.


    "Hello?" Eva answered.


    "It''s me. Where are you? Let''s go have dinner together." Andy spoke.


    "I--- I can''t. I have to go pick up the invitation cards for the wedding."


    "This late?"


    "Uh.. yeah. Apparently, there were some minor errors and I have to go see it."


    As he drove and spoke on the microphone, the end of his eye caught Eva walking down the street. Andy quickly drove his car to the side and stopped. He was on the other side of the busy road.


    "Didn''t you have the invitations get made at PyroPaper?"


    "I did. I am there just now. "


    "You have your bodyguards with you right?"


    "Of course babe. I have to go, dinner tomorrow, I promise."


    Eva hung up the phone. He looked over the street and he was sure it was Eva there. She rung the doorbell of a building and waited outside. An older man opened the door. Eva instantly pushed something to the man. The man looked unsatisfied and dragged Eva inside the building.

 Chapter 148 - Causing doubt

    Andy was going to get out of his car if Eva did not come out after a few minutes. However, just after that few minutes, Eva walked out of the door. She was unharmed nor looked worried. She continued walking down the street.


    Andy grabbed his phone and dialed the number of the bodyguards that was supposed to be watching Eva.


    "Yes, Boss?"


    "Where is Eva right now?"


    "Uh... isn''t she suppose to be with you right now? She said she was going to meet up with you and that we were dismissed for tonight."


    Andy did not reply back to the bodyguard. The bodyguard felt that something was wrong. "Is there any trouble?"


    "No." Andy replied. "Next time, whatever excuses she makes to not have you guys by her side, I want you to let her go and watch her from a distance."


    "Boss, you want us to spy on the Miss?"


    "Unless you want to lose your job instead for not watching her properly."


    The bodyguard gulped. "No, no. We will do as you instruct, boss."


    Andy hung up the phone and dialed his secretary.


    "CEO Yang, what can I do for you?"


    "I want you to find all the residents who live in the address that I will text to you soon. Narrow it down to men who are 30 and above. Do a thorough background check on all of them and make sure you have a picture. Get this done by tomorrow morning."


    "Yes, sir."


    Andy hung up again and stared out to the building. ''What is Eva doing here that she lied to me?''


    He sighed. He doesn''t want to give her the benefit of the doubt but he will slowly confront her about it. Instead of driving back home, he went to Eva''s apartment that his mother bought for her. He had never been here before but Eva had given him the key.


    He parked his car and went up to Eva''s apartment. He opened it and the apartment was dark. It would be a while before Eva came home if she was walking. She never liked the taxi or buses so she would walk everywhere.


    Andy felt like he was overdoing this. He once punished Lena for doing the same thing to him when he went out to have dinner with a business partner who was a female. Looking back to that now, he understood Lena and how paranoia it can be to have doubt in a relationship. Although back then, he did not love Lena.


    Andy took off his shoes and put his car keys on the counter. He looked around the living room first before going to the bedroom. He quickly searched her bedroom and everything was normal. He relaxed his mind a bit, knowing that he did not find anything out of the ordinary.


    He heard the door opening and he got off the bed to go open it.


    "Surprised!" Andy spoke.


    "Andy! I thought you were a robber." Andy did not know if Eva was shocked or scared or both. She was somewhat nervous. "Why are you here?"


    "Thought that I can stay over tonight. I missed you." Andy hugged her and dragged her inside her apartment. "You''re still not mad at me right?"


    "No." Eva kissed him on the cheek. "It''s just some stupid rings. Our love is more than the rings."


    Eva dropped her bag on the sofa and walked to the kitchen. "Did you have dinner? I can cook something."


    "I already ordered."


    "Oh.. okay then. Why don''t you go take a shower then? You just came back from work, you smell like work."


    "Mhm.. k."


    Andy walked to the guestroom. It was a room that Eva had already prepared for Andy if he ever came over. Since Andy was a very conserved man, they never slept in the same room. He went into the bathroom that was connected to his room.


    He took off his clothes and went into the shower. He turned on the faucet and nothing came on. He scowled. This was a very expensive apartment and the water is not working? He put on a bathrobe and walked to Eva''s bathroom instead. She was in the living room, trying to clean up a few stuff and did not notice him going into her room.


    Andy turned on the shower in there and it ran fine. He took a quick shower and got out. Eva knocked on the bathroom door.


    "Andy, is that you in there?"


    "Yeah" He called out as he tried to find himself a towel to dry himself. "The shower is broken in my room."


    "What?! I will call for maintenance tomorrow. Hurry so I can go next."


    He laughed. "Okay."


    He opened the closet where the towels would be. He grabbed the top one but a box fell out.


    "Sh*t." Andy covered the towel on his waist and bent down to collect the contents that fell out of the tiny box.


    Before he even picked them up, he noticed that there was a pack on condoms. It was not opened. He stuffed it back to the bigger container. He picked up a pack of contraceptive pills, which looked like it has been used for a while now.


    He looked at the bathroom door. ''Why would Eva use these when I clearly told her I was not going to do it until after we got married?'' These items were causing doubt to their relationship.


    Andy put the item back into the container. The next item he picked up was a white medicine bottle. There were no labels on it. He opened the container and took out one pill. The pill was white. It has an A on one side and a heart on the other.


    Andy kept one pill and closed the bottle. He put it back in the container and pushed it back to where it fell down from the closet.


    He opened the bathroom door and Eva was sitting on her bed waiting for him to exit out.


    "What took you so long? I thought something bad might have happened to you in there."


    "Nothing. Just men stuff."


    Eva blushed and quickly ran into the bathroom. Andy looked back at her then at the pill he was holding in his hands. He went back to his room and put the pill in his wallet.


    Eva was still in the shower when the food got delivered. Andy set up the food in the dining table and waited for her to be done. She entered the area a few minutes later.


    "Hey, I love this food." Eva sat down by Andy and smiled.


    "I know."


    Eva started eating the food first and then Andy did too. In the middle of their dinner, Andy paused and looked at Eva.


    "Eva, you are not in any kind of trouble are you?"


    Eva stopped eating and looked at Andy. She was confused. "No."


    Andy already did a deep background check on Eva way back then when he just had a crush on her. She had no loans nor any relationship with bad people. She had never had a relationship with anyone. She spent a good time with Ming Zhao but they were just good friends.


    "You know that if anything bad happens, you can always tell me and we can solve it together?"


    "I know." Eva smiled at the handsome man. "That is why we are going to get married. So we can solve everything together."


    After dinner, they both cuddled on the sofa and watched a movie. It felt nice to hold Eva in his arms, but his mind was elsewhere. Eva could feel that Andy was not paying attention to the movie. He was not laughing at the funny parts.


    "Something wrong, babe?"


    "Eva... do you want kids right after we get married or later?"


    "Me? Well of course as soon as possible. That is fine with you, right?"


    Andy faked a smile at her and kissed her forehead. "Yeah."


    So she said that she wanted a kid immediately, but she is on the pills? Does this have to do with his mother? The both of them have been too close lately, it was somewhat scary.

 Chapter 149 - Borrow your dog

    The next day Lena went to pick up the rings especially early. She planned to deliver it to Eva at lunch. She came to work a bit later than usual. Lena came up to her office holding the box with the rings. Diane quickly greeted Lena.


    "CEO Yang is in your office waiting for you."


    "Me? This early in the morning... did he say why?"


    "No."


    Lena nodded and handed Diane the rings. She did not want to give them to Andy because she wanted to give to Eva instead. She walked into her office.


    "Andy!" Lena went and give the big man a small hug. "Why are you here so early?"


    "Why are you here so late?"


    Lena laughed and went to sit on her chair. "What''s up? I can see that something is bothering you."


    "You can tell?" Of course, Lena had been with him for so long to know so many little things about him. "I have a favor to ask."


    "Anything for you."


    Andy took out a small bag that had the white pill he discovered yesterday. He handed it over to Lena.


    "Can you get that tested for me? Break down the elements for me."


    Lena took the bag and looked at it. It was the pill from before. Lena kept her straight face not to give away that she knew exactly what this pill was. How did Andy get this? Or did he get it from Eva? "Sure. I can rush the results for you."


    Andy sat down on the chair across from Lena and stared to her eyes. "When did you start doubting me when we were engaged?"


    "I always doubted you." Lena smiled. "But I think most of it was just my stupid tantrum. I had always trusted you, that you would never cheat on me even though you never loved me."


    Lena could see that Andy was probably doubting Eva now. Her heart enlightened a bit. She did not even need to do anything and Andy was smart enough to open his eyes and see the suspicious activities himself. Good for him.


    Lena continued. "And you did never technically cheated on me. You fell in love with someone else of course but it''s not like you were seeing her behind my back. People can fall out of love, and find new love, but you respected our relationship. You only approached her after the engagement was canceled. Andy, you''re a good and faithful man. And you deserve someone who would do the same to you."


    "You''ve really changed a lot." Andy complimented Lena.


    "I am guessing you are in the stage of a relationship where you are doubting your significant other? I think it''s fine to question them but just confront that person. Look at our relationship in the past. I may not have given you the details of my troublemaking, but I admit that I did something bad. There should be no lying in a relationship. If she said that she can''t tell you, that is better than a straight lie to your face. Remember Andy, she will be the one you will marry."


    That last sentence struck Andy. She would be the woman he would marry, there should be no lies in their relationship. Andy stood up and thanked Lena.


    "Wait." Lena called out. "Do you need help dealing with the trouble with your artist at your company?"


    "You know?"


    "Hazel is not really a person who can keep her mouth shut..." Lena walked up to Andy. "Deal with your relationship. I can give you a hand with the problem. Considered it as a wedding gift."


    Lena went to the door and opened it for him. Andy thanked Lena again and left. Lena watched as Andy left. She smirked... Luck is always on her side huh? She was indeed a blessed child.


    She walked to grabbed her phone and dialed Kris. After a few rings, he finally picked up.


    "Kris?"


    "Hmm?" Kris answered.


    "Are you busy?"


    Kris looked at the man on the floor and his right hand pointing a gun at him. "No. What do you need?"


    "I need to borrow your dog?"


    "My dog? I don''t have a dog."


    "Oh.. wrong name. Uh... what was his name again. Oh yeah, Lay. Can I borrow him?"


    "Why do you need him? He''s not that good. I can do a better job." Kris pressed his gun on the flesh of the man''s head, making sure he did not dare make a single sound.


    "Naw.. Lay is the one causing trouble to Andy so he is the one I need. You just finish up your work and come back in one piece. I would not know how to dance with a person who is split into two."


    Kris chuckled from the other side of the phone. "You can have him. He should always be in his normal hangout place."


    "K. Good day! See you soon!" Lena hung up the phone.


    Kris looked at the silenced phone and closed it. He handed it back to Keso. Kris bent down and pulled the hair of the man, so he was looking at Kris. The man''s face was heavily beaten. There were bruises and blood, gushing out of his face.


    "It''s your lucky day, I am in a good mood." Kris smiled.


    The man let out a small breath of relief. Kris removed the gun from the man''s head and instantly shot his both of his legs without hesitation. The man screamed from the pain.


    "Be thankful I shot your legs... a thief like you deserve your hands to be cut off. But I pity you... a man needs his hands." Kris left the man to bleed on the cold floor. Keso followed Kris out.


    "Are you sure you want to keep him alive?" Keso asked.


    "It''s fine. He should know better than to steal from me."


    This was the first time that Keso had seen Kris let a man go alive. He did not question him further and opened the car door for Kris. Keso closed it and went to the driver''s seat.


    "All done?" Collin asked.


    "Mhm." Kris nodded. "Get in contact with Lay.. tell him that he is Lena''s dog until I come back."


    "Lena''s dog?" Collin looked at Kris and then at Keso in confusion. "Oh.. ok, I''ll text him that."

 Chapter 150 - Crazy woman

    After Lena hung up the call with Kris, she decided to meet with Eva tomorrow instead. She got back to her work and Ming ordered lunch for her today too. He texted her that he will send her lunch for a week, as that was what he owed her.


    Ming Zhao also sent Lena the information she requested awhile ago on Reina. Because Lena was not ready to see the master gun craftswoman yet, she gave the files to James. When she is ready to wield her own gun, she will meet with the talented woman herself.


    Lena stayed late at the office to complete some stuff for the partnership between LUX and SHYNE. Most of the meetings now with LUX is through video conference until there China HQ building was completed before it was cold.


    When it was 7 p.m., Lena left her office. She and James head to Red Moon. It was not exactly prime yet for people to be out and drinking but there were still many people at Red Moon. Lena speed passed through the entrance and entered the noisy place.


    She stopped at the bartender and asked the hot lady there where she might find Lay.


    The hot female bartender looked at Lena. Lena was still wearing her work clothes. "Lay is not someone who you could easily meet with, lady." And rolled her eyes at Lena.


    Lena does one of a mischevious smile and cleared her throat. "I am asking to speak with the man, not bed him. Now... be a nice worker a tell me where I can find him."


    The girl ignored Lena and went ahead to attend the other guests who were actually ordering a drink. Lena shrugged and went to ask several different workers. They all ignore her too after seeing that the first person ignoring Lena.


    Lena scoffed. She did not really want to go knocking on every private room just to find Lay naked with a woman. James could see that Lena was somewhat irritated.


    "Do you want me to go find him?"


    "Naw.. he''ll come to find me. An owner just has to call for the dog and it will come willingly."


    Lena quickly grabbed a bottle of wine from the tray of a worker who was delivering it somewhere. She quickly smacked the bottle of wine on the floor and caused a big loud crash. Lena was wearing pants so she hopped over the bartender counter.


    The hot bartender that Lena first talked to gasped. "What are you doing?!"


    "Shh." Lena put a finger her lips. "I am not someone you could easily talk to." Lena grabbed two more bottles of wines on each hand and smashed them on the floor.


    The woman gasped and stared at Lena. The security came but James blocked them with his deadly stare. After breaking a few more bottles, Lena spotted an expensive wine. She picked it up and raised her arm.


    "AHHHH.. don''t do it!"


    Lena stopped at look at Lay who was scared as sh*t at the second-floor balcony. He rushed down the stairs. "I am here, I am here."


    Lay was casually enjoying his night with a few hot girls he just met. It was not until one of his security came and notified him that there was a crazy woman causing trouble. He yelled at the man why they could not deal with a woman.


    The man said it was Lena Shen and Lay quickly got his butt off the sofa and rushed out. If it was Lena... she would definitely make him go broke in one night. He came just in time to see that Lena was going to smash a million-dollar wine.


    "Oh!" Lena''s eyes lit up.


    She looked at the puppy and smiled. She released her grip on the wine bottle and it shattered into pieces as it hit the floor. Lay opened his mouth at his precious wine... His heart stopped beating.


    "My hands slipped. C''mon let''s go." Lena hopped over the counter again and shoo Lay to take them to a private room. Lay waved his hands for his workers to clean the mess up. He did not dare to yell at Lena and took her to a private room.


    Lena plopped herself to sit on the sofa. "I need to talk to you."


    Lay looked at the crazy woman... how can Kris put up with her? Oh wait, Kris was as crazy as her, no wonder Kris can stand her... they were both crazy together. He sat across from Lena and smiled. "What can I do for you, Miss. Shen?"


    "You are the one causing trouble for the Yang company?"


    "Of course I am. My work is always perfect."


    Lena nodded her heads lowly." Yeah... Kris said you are not as good."


    "What?! I am the best at this type of stuff. Causing trouble!"


    "We should compete sometime.." Lay stared at Lena and then lowered his head in defeat. That woman was the best at causing trouble... "But that is not what I am here for... I need you to put a stop to the attacks."


    "Huh? It was just getting to the best part!"


    "I know. But I need you to get your girls to retract the accusation. Well, of course, the Yang company will pay for them. They can take the money and the stop their accusation toward the artist."


    Lay looked at Lena... she was a crazy and cunning woman. He liked her better when she was a spoiled stupid brat.


    "Will do."


    "Tsk.." Lena shook her head. "I don''t understand how there is one person who can''t hold his pants and one who can''t even touch a hair on a girl. Bunch of weirdos..." Lena stood up and left the door.


    After Lena left, Lay scoffed at the remark. Lay opened his phone and looked at the text Collin sent him before.


    Cole: You need to help Miss. Lena Shen with some stuff until we return. Be a good dog.


    Lay did not understand why Collin called him a dog... He srugged. Lay texted back to Collin. He would need to go tattle on Lena to Kris. She called all of them a weirdo! And she also broke so many of his wine, scaring away his business!


    Of course, Kris should be on his side, they have been friends for so long!


    Lay: Where boss?


    Collin: Eating


    Lay: I call


    Lay called Collin who picked up quickly. "Yo... let me talk to him."


    Collin asked if Kris wanted to speak with Lay. Lay was banned from calling Kris because most of the time, his phone would get stolen and one of his drunk girls would call Kris. So they never gave Lay Kris'' work phone number anymore.


    Kris sipped his wine and nodded. He took the phone from Collin. "What''s up."


    "Lena Shen is a crazy woman!" Lay screamed over the phone for exaggeration.


    "You called her a what?" Kris placed his wine on the table and was more focused on the conversation on the phone.


    "Crazy woman! She came into the bar and started smashing such expensive wine! I should charge her for all those damages."


    "She can do whatever she wants to do."


    "What?! Fine... but she called you a weirdo! You can''t let her call you that."


    "Weirdo? Me or you?"


    "Us.. all of us. She said we are all a bunch of weirdos hanging out together."


    "Tsk.. That''s your fault that she called me a weirdo. It''s your stupid pink hair. Get rid of that hair... I don''t hang out with weirdos. If she calls me weirdo again, I am chopping off all your hair!"


    Kris abruptly hung up and Lay stared at the phone. His eyes widened and threw his phone on the sofa. ''How am I the weird one? You''re the one who can''t even get it up!''


    Lay touched his pink hair and looked at his handsome youth at the mirror on the door. ''My pink hair is a trend....Wuu... Why is he blaming me... he should be on my side!''

 Chapter 151 - Used trash

    The next morning was already a good start for Lena. The sun was not even up yet and news already exploded with major headlines about Mayor Bai. Many news were publishing articles about his corruption with his charity funds, using them for personal use instead of his campaign. They also said that he had been using the people''s tax and transferring them to his own person offshore account.


    Lena smiled as she read the articles. There was not much evidence yet but accusations. However, the PR department of the Mayor has not responded yet to the public. They had not made a comment on the news.


    Lena knew that this was probably Kris'' doing. She should up her game too. She hopped off her bed and got ready for the morning. James would not be picking her up today because she was going to go poke a baby dragon today.


    Instead of her usual work pants today, she put on a sleek black skirt with a light blue blouse. She let hair loose and pretty the rest of herself. She made sure to have the box of rings with her as she drove to Eva''s apartment.


    Noah had given her Eva''s address the night before and he hacked into the apartment security to make sure that Eva was still home.


    She drove to the apartment building. It was a nice area, but not as great as hers. She walked up and went up to the elevator. As she stood outside the apartment door, she took out a small mirror and made sure she was looking perfect before going in.


    Lena finally knocked on the door. After a few times, Eva opened the door.


    "Lena?"


    "Hey. Can I come in?"


    Eva looked at Lena and she was dressed so well early in the morning. As for her, she had just woken up and was still in pajamas. "Ah yeah... sure I guess."


    She opened the door to let Lena in. Lena walked in and looked around the area. "So this is where you live now?"


    "Yeah." Eva closed the door. "What are you here for?"


    Lena sat on the sofa without even waiting for Eva to say so. "Your rings are done and I wanted to personally deliver them to you. It will save you the time to pick them up later."


    Eva sat down by Lena and took the box from her. She opened it. "You... you were the one to have Andy change his designs, right?"


    "Yeah, it was me."


    Eva angrily stared at Lena. "You have no rights to interfere with it."


    "No right? I am the designer, I only make suggestions. It was his choice to choose mine over yours."


    Eva was shocked at what Lena said. "You think that I don''t know what is better for us?"


    "Actually, I do. No woman would make a man wear such an over-decorated ring just to match her wife''s... he is a businessman, not something you can dress to impress."


    Eva was short of words. "You... you still love him don''t you?!"


    "So you finally can still see that?" Lena smirked.


    Eva put the rings on the table. "You told Andy that you were over him, but you were lying?!"


    "Lying? You are the real hypocrite here, don''t start blaming me. I once asked you to stay away from Andy and you promised to. And yet, here you are... right next to him. Is that not a lie?"


    "You think Andy would accept you again?" Eva raised her voice.


    Lena stood up as a gesture that she was leaving. She laughed. "You''re a little confident there, aren''t you? As far as I remember, you also did the same thing when I was engaged. Anything can happen."


    Eva stood up and tilt her head to look at Lena. Eva was a bit smaller than her. "You think I would let Andy go as easy as you did?"


    "Ahahhahhh...." Lena laughed and then smirked. "I didn''t leave him, he left me. And he can easily leave you too."


    Lena walked to the door and opened it. Eva followed her out. Lena turned and look at the distraught woman. "Ah... Andy must have not told you yet, but we are having dinner tonight. Just the two of us. He personally invited me. You must have not entertained him well enough at night..."


    "You!!"


    Lena took a step forward and looked down on Eva like a small animal. She grabbed Eva''s hand. "Don''t you worry, Mei-mei. I''ll entertain him very well, after all, I am not used trash." Lena gave her another victory smile and left as she closed the door on Eva''s face.


    Eva''s legs went weak and she fell to the carpeted floor. ''Used trash... she called me used trash. She could not know, right? She won''t tell Andy, right? No... she will because--''


    A knock on the door interrupted her thought. She quickly stood up and look out the peephole. It looked like it was a maintenance guy.


    "One minute." She was still in her pajamas. She quickly went to get changed and opened the door.


    "Hello. Is this a good time to fix the shower?"


    "Yeah, now is fine. How long would it take?"


    "Just a few minutes."


    "Ok." Eva showed the man where the broken shower was. She went back to her room to get her phone. She needed to call Andy. They were supposed to have a romantic dinner yesterday but Andy said he was busy. But... he made time to have dinner with Lena!?


    "Hello, Miss. Wu." Sophia picked up the call.


    "Where is Andy?"


    "Andy is in a meeting right now. He cannot take a call, if you want to, I can pass on a message for him."


    "No, it''s fine. Just tell him to call me right after he is done."


    Eva bit her thumbnails... What is she going to do? How does Lena even know that she is not a virgin anymore? Only Madam Yang would know.


    She stopped biting her nails as she remembered there was another person... Mike Zhao. She was about to call him but the maintenance guy knocked on her bedroom door.


    "Miss? It is all done. Do you want me to check the shower in your room too?"


    "Oh.. yeah." She replied without thinking.


    The man walked into the bathroom and closed the door. He walked a few minutes later. "Everything is good now. This is a note just to inform you of the fixes that I did. Good day, Miss."


    Eva made sure the man left before making her phone call. She went back to her room and dialed Mike Zhao.


    Just as the call was picked up, Eva quickly spoke to the phone. "Mike Zhao, did you meet up with Lena Shen?"


    "Eva? Why are you calling me on this number? You know it is not safe to call me on this number. Are you using a disposable phone?" Mike Zhao asked.


    "That''s not important! I asked you, did you talk with Lena Shen at all?!"


    "Stupid woman." Mike Zhao hung up the phone. He was not going to rish his business for a woman who can''t even play it safe.


    "Dammit!" Eva called him again but it went straight to voicemail. She called a few times before she was blocked.


    She looked around the room for her disposable phone but could not find it. She just had it a few days ago... where did it go?!


    ------


    The maintenance walked out the back of the apartment building and entered a car.


    "Hello, Miss. Shen."


    Lena smiled at the man. "How did it go?"


    "I put a microphone in both the bathroom and the living room."


    Lena already switched cars with James. Her car was too bright to play spy. She was now driving a car that blended more with the streets.


    "That''s good." She parked a few blocks away from the apartment. She handed the man a check. "Here. Take this back to your boss. Tell him its for the damage I did him yesterday."


    "Very well." The man got off the car and went into this own car.


    Lena turned around the car to ditch it and meet up with James so they can go to the company. Tomorrow Kris would be back, Lena would tell him her great adventures since he left.

 Chapter 152 - Rough morning

    Andy just got out of a meeting with some stockholders. They were pressuring him to fix the problem with the scandal of one of their artist. News reporters are looking into their other artists and it was not looking well for the publicity of their company.


    Andy already made plans with Lena tonight. She told him that she has the results for the pill and the solution to his scandal problem. However, she needed a payment of food.


    Sophia knocked on the door of Andy''s office.


    "Come in." Andy spoke.


    "CEO Yang, Eva called awhile ago when you were in a meeting."


    "What did she ask for?"


    "I don''t know. She just told me that you should call her as soon as you were out of the meeting."


    "Do you have anything else?"


    "Yes." Sophia handed a file to Andy. "These are all the information that I could pull out of the disposable phone. The calls are mostly secured but the text messages are still there. I cannot trace any of the numbers though."


    "That''s fine. Good work." Andy thanked her and she walked out. "Sophia?" She stopped and looked back at her boss. "Make sure my parent knows nothing about this, especially my mom."


    "Yes."


    Sophia closed the door and let Andy work in peace. He had many things going on his plate for the last few days. Not only is there the scandal but Eva has been pestering him non-stop. Sophia shooked her head... she though Eva was very nice but she was turning into Lena.


    Sophia remembered when Lena always cause trouble to Andy. She never considered the consequences until it was too late. At least with Lena, she picked up after her mess more than Eva. Eva depended on Andy and Madam Yang for everything. Eva tried too much to fit into Andy''s world.


    Andy looked at the file that Sophia gave him. He opened his drawer and looked at the other file that she asked for her before. It was the information on the residents who lived in the building that Eva visited. He had not looked at them yet... he was somewhat afraid to. He closed his eyes and called Eva.


    The call did not get pick up. He called her again but still no answer. He called her bodyguards instead.


    "Yes, boss?"


    "Where is Eva now?"


    "Miss Wu just left the apartment."


    "Anything unusual this morning?" Andy asked.


    "No, boss. Just that Miss. Shen visited her this morning but left after 10 minutes."


    Andy was not surprised. She told him that she would be delivering the rings to Eva. "Ok. Watch her and tell me where she is going."


    "Yes, boss!"


    Andy hung up the call. He put the files away. He won''t look at them yet. He will give the person he loves one more chance. Her last chance.


    ---


    Eva hurriedly got out of the apartment to go buy a disposable phone nearby. She got into a corner store and luckily they had one. She bought one and quickly dialed Mike Zhao again. He picked up.


    "Who''s this?"


    "It''s me again. Don''t hang up... it''s a secure call." Eva replied.


    "What do you need?"


    "Did you see Lena Shen at all? Talk to her?"


    "..." Mike Zhao did not reply. He called Lena that the morning he waked up with... with that... person. She told him that they had dinner and she left separately from her after that. The security cameras even showed that. But, Mike just can''t remember any of it. "No."


    "How.... Think Mike! Could there be anyone else that knows about..."


    "About you sleeping with me for the pills? Heh... lady, you chose a payment. I am a businessman, I don''t care about who knows or not." Mike hung up the phone.


    Eva squeezed the phone. She needs to know if Lena was just taunting her or if she really knew about it. Eva looked at her real cellphone and realized she had a missed call from Andy. She called him back but he did not pick up.


    She called her bodyguards to pick her up from the corner store. It was only a few minutes and they arrived. She told them to take her to the Yang company.


    Once there, she hurriedly went to Andy''s office. Everyone knew who she was so they did not stop her. Sophia saw Eva walking down the hallway in a speed. She wanted to stop her since Andy does not like to be disturbed when he is working. However, Eva pushed passed her and walked into the office.


    "Andy!"


    Andy looked up at the young woman who just walked through his doors. He did not like it when his workspace is interrupted, especially when he needed to focus on his work.


    "Eva." Andy got up from his chair and went to hug her. "Why are you here?"


    Eva removed his hands from her and looked at him angrily. "Are you having dinner with Lena Shen tonight?"


    "Yeah, we---"


    Eva did not wait for Andy to explain and burst into an angry fit. "So it is true! You can''t make time to eat dinner with me, but you made time to have dinner with your ex. What would other people think of me if they see you guys together?! Do you even still care about me, your fiance?!"


    Andy was calm before, but now he was somewhat irritated too. "Eva." He spoke her name in a deep strict tone. He stepped back away from her to look at a woman who was a stranger to him. "What has gotten to you lately? My dinner with Lena is strictly for business."


    "I don''t care. You should have dinner with me first before anyone else. Can''t you save me some face?"


    Andy grabbed Eva''s arm and held it tightly. "Save your face? You''re not even saving me any. You come in here and start accusing me of putting another woman before you, and yet you don''t give an sh*t about the things that are really happening. When you marry me, you marry me, my family and my company. Why don''t you go take a break and reconsider that."


    Andy did not spare her another look. "Sophia, get her out of here until she had properly cooled down her head. Don''t let her come in again without my permission!" Andy dragged Eva out of his office and closed the door.


    Eva stood out the closed door. Her heart stopped beating and she was at the edge of crying. Andy had never yelled at her so roughly before. When they first had the argument about the rings, he was consoling her but she was the one who kept yelling. Now, he is not so nice anymore. She was the one at fault.


    "Andy! I am sorry. Open the door and we can talk about it." She pounded on the door, ignoring the looks of all the employees who were staring at her.


    "Miss. Wu, I suggest you leave CEO Yang for a bit. He had a rough morning."


    Eva turned around to see Sophia. "I''ll come back later." Eva reluctantly left the office.


    Sophia told everyone to get back to work and made sure no one would utter a single word about what happened.


    Eva''s heart was full of angry inside the elevator. She clenched her fists and look into her reflection in the elevator. ''I need to get pregnant with Andy''s baby soon... that way he can''t leave me for her.''

 Chapter 153 - Dinner with Andy

    That night, Lena stayed another day longer at work so she could just head out to dinner with Andy later on. When it was close to the time, Lena drove herself to the restaurant. It was just a casual restaurant.


    Andy was already sitting at the table. Lena smiled and sat at the table.


    "Food first. Just in case you decide to go back on your words." Lena spoke.


    Andy laughed at her. He had a rough day, and he hoped that Lena would cause him more headaches. Andy already ordered for both of them. He had to eat with Lena for a long time now so he knew what she liked and what she does not like.


    As the food comes and Lena enjoyed the meal, she could tell that Andy was not having a good day. A rough patch in a relationship always is an emotional rollercoaster. Lena hoped that she will never go through such a painful experience again.


    Seeing that Andy was not in the mood to eat, Lena finished up her food and told the waitress to pack the rest.


    "You could eat here, you know. I can wait." Andy spoke.


    "It''s fine. We are both here for the information, not the food anyway." Lena pulled out a file and handed to Andy. "That is the files on the two girls who are planning to sue your artist for sexual harassment and bribery. I already got in contact with them both and was able to make a deal with them."


    "That fast?" Andy was surprised. Last time, Lena took a week.


    "This was an emergency so I pulled some strings. But anyway, you just need to send them the proper compensation, and they will retract the accusation and even go online to say that they lied."


    "Thanks."


    "Next.." Lena handed another file to Andy but her hand still covered the folder. "This is the lab results on the pill and what it does. Sides effects and everything you need to know about it." Lena paused and slowly removed her hand from the top of the folder. "Andy... it''s not good news."


    Andy took the folder and was not hesitant to open it. He has been hesitant all day, but this one he needed to see what it was.


    The first word that caught his eye was that it was categorized as an "Aprodasiac Drug." Andy already knew that that drug was but he looked at the effect and side effects. His eyes turned sad then dark. Eva was supposed to be different from Lena.


    Andy skimmed through the file and closed it after he was done. "Did you use this one on me before?"


    "This exact type? No. I am not stupid to use something that is not sold in the open market." Lena had to give her old self some credit. She was desperate but she did not use something that she was not 100% sure it would work.


    Andy chuckled. "It''s funny. In most relationships, it is the man who cannot wait, but here I am, stuck in two relationships where it is the other way around." He put a hand on his head and ruffled his hair. "Is it so wrong to want to wait?"


    Lena grabbed his hand so he would stop being frustrated. "No." She grabbed his other hand. "If the person you love really loves you back... they would wait for an eternity. I realized that my love for you was real... but not a love for eternity. If you really think that Eva''s love is for eternity, just talk to Eva again, maybe you both can come up with a compromise."


    Lena let go of his hand. She went to grab something out of her bag. it was a long rectangle box. It looked like a box for an expensive pen. Lena handed to him.


    "But just in case, that is the antidote. You can take it before or after. It will be effective for 24 hours."


    Andy opened the container and there was a small syringe. "How did you even get this?"


    "I can''t tell you that. I can''t give you all the answers right now anyway. You just have to trust me on this." Lena looked straight into Andy''s eyes. "I have never lied to you before, I won''t start now. There are many things that you don''t know. But... if it does come the time that you do need to use the antidote, you can call for me again. I will give you the answer to that question."


    Lena stood up, grabbed her bag and packed food. She walked up to Andy and stood by him as he was still sitting down. "I once told you that there are plenty of fish in the sea, that applies to anyone." She bent down and give him a kiss on the forehead. "I only hope for you to be happy. Goodbye."


    Lena turned around and left. Andy took a deep breath and looked at the syringe again. He really hoped that he does not need to use.


    Lena walked out and hopped into her car. She pulled her phone and dialed James.


    "Did you get the pictures?" She asked.


    "I sure did. You were great. I made sure to get the pictures in the perfect angle."


    "Great. Send it to Eva tonight."


    Lena hung up the phone and smiled. It won''t be long now before Eva was out of the picture. They are one step closer to Madam Yang.


    Andy stayed at the table and ordered a drink before leaving. He went back to his car and looked at the other files that were sitting in the passenger seat of his car. He was not going to open them until later, but that later was now.


    He picked up the first file of the residents. He skimmed through them all until he found the man that Eva met with that night. His name was Alec. He had several criminal offenses in possession of drugs and intent to sell them. Alec has been divorced twice and currently have a restraining order from an ex. He had several charges on sexual harassment.


    Andy does not know how Eva would get involved with someone like him. He would understand more if the man was a loan shark or something, but a person like this with Eva?!


    Andy put down the file and looked at the disposable phone. There were only three numbers saved on the phone. All of them were unknown or private numbers.


    The text messages were somewhat suspicious though. Eva would talk to someone so secretively.


    Eva: I have no money


    Unknown: No money, no pills


    The text would cut off because they would call each other instead. It was the last text that got Andy angry.


    Unknown: Remember to take the pills. I don''t need a useless kid from you.


    Andy scrunched up the paper and threw it on the floor of his car. ''Have Eva been cheating on him?'' He tried to process everything. She had a box of condoms which was not opened and contraceptive pills that were used for a few weeks now.


    Those were not for Andy... but for someone else. He closed his eyes and calmed down. He pulled out his phone and texted Eva.


    Andy: Done with work. I will come sleepover tonight at your place.


    Eva: Can''t wait!


    Andy tossed his phone on the passenger seat and drove to a floral shop that was still open at night. he picked up a rose and head to Eva''s apartment. He needed to find out about it tonight.

 Chapter 154 - No more doubt

    Andy stuffed the antidote in his jacket pocket. He stood outside the door before knocking. Eva quickly opened the door and hugged Andy.


    "I''m sorry for before, babe." She hugged him tightly.


    "It''s fine." Andy gave Eva the flower.


    She smiled and took the flower. They both entered the apartment. Eva placed the flower in a cup with water. "I know you already ate but I made some midnight snacks. Maybe we can watch another movie together?"


    "Yeah. I will just go take a shower."


    "Ok. The shower in your room is fixed already too."


    Andy went to his room and locked the door. He put the antidote in a safe area and head to take a long cold shower. He needed to relax his frustrations. When he got out of the shower, he put on his pajamas. He dried his hair with a towel and went to look for Eva.


    She was not in the living room so she might be in her room. He opened the door to her bedroom and she was not there. He noticed that the light in her bathroom was on. He was about to walk out when he heart several small groaning from inside the bathroom.


    He walked closer to the bathroom. There is was again, the groan like someone was in pain. Andy knocked on the door.


    "Eva? Are you okay?"


    Eva was on the ground going through the side effects of taking the pills. Mike had warned her already but she did not know it was this painful. She tried to close her mouth and bit the towel so she would not make a loud sound.


    "Eva... if you don''t open the door I will knock it down." Andy shouted from the other side of the door.


    Eva bit her teeth. "I am fine." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.


    "Then open the door."


    Andy put his ear on the door and could still hear small groans of pain. He stepped back a bit and stared at the door. He was deciding if he was really going to knock it down or not. As he was about to run to the door, Eva opened it.


    She smiled at him. She had a towel wrapping her naked body. "I just slipped down. It''s fine."


    Andy stared at her, making sure she was indeed ok.


    "I still have to shower. You go choose a movie first." She closed the door and then Andy could hear the shower running.


    Andy walked out and stared at the bathroom door. In the report that Lena gave him, it says that the person who takes the pill will experience an initial shock to the body, causing intense pain to the body as the pill begins to work.


    Andy took another deep breath and closed his eyes. ''Eva... prove me wrong that I am just overthinking this...''


    He walked to the living room and picked out a random movie that they had not watched before. He sat on the sofa first and wrapped himself in a blanket.


    The movie had started and Eva was not out yet. Just then, Eva walked out. Her face was slightly flushed and she was wearing a very think silky nightgown. Andy could see her body and skin perfectly. Although Eva did not have a big body like Lena, she was beautiful on his own. She was indeed very pretty.


    Andy smiled but then he suddenly recalled the image of the pack of condoms and contraceptive pills. Andy stared at Eva not with the eyes of a man in love, but with eyes of doubt.


    "Come sit down, the movie just started."


    "Ok." Eva moved in the sofa and hopped in the blanket with Andy. She moved closer to him.


    After a few minutes into the movie, Eva turned around and looked seductively into Andy''s eyes. He was caught off guard for a moment and she kissed him. This was not the first time they had kissed but it was different. Eva hungrily dived her tongue into Andy''s mouth and tasted him.


    She needed to mix their salivae so he has the effects of the drug. Mike said it will be an immediate effect. They both kissed in the dark on the sofa and the only light was coming from the television. Andy''s brain stopped for a while before he felt electrocution going through his body.


    His temperature raised. He looked into the beautiful woman who was kissing him. He pushed her down and turned on top of her and he kissed her back hungrily. He lost himself in desire but then his phone rung from his bedroom.


    The sound disrupted his mind and he blinked. What was he doing? He realized that the drug was affecting him. Of course, it can be passed through bodily liquid. He quickly stood up from Eva.


    "One minute." Andy pulled off her before she could complain.


    He quickly went to his room and picked up the call. "Hello?"


    No one replied. He said hello again and then the call hung up on him. He looked at the caller ID and it was an unknown number. He suddenly felt his body heating up again and he recalled what was happening.


    He went back to the area where he hid the antidote and quickly stabbed him in the leg. He took a deep breath. He went and washed his face before heading back out to Eva.


    "Who was it?" Eva asked.


    "Prank call."


    Eva stood up and put her arms around Andy''s neck. She went for another kiss but he turned away from her. "I am tired."


    Eva stopped and looked at Andy. He was into her just a while ago... what happened? Mike said that the effects will transfer quickly. Shouldn''t Andy be feeling it by now?


    She smiled weakly. "Yeah. Can you stay with me until I sleep? Just tonight."


    "Sure."


    Andy carried Eva to her room and got to the bed with her. He cuddled in the bed with her and held her head under his chin. Eva tried to be intimate with Andy again, but he was rejecting her every move.


    "Stop moving Eva or you''ll never go to sleep."


    Eva looked up and Andy and realized that the pills were not working at all. Did she go through all that pain for useless pills?! She would need to go kill that bastard Mike tomorrow. She closed her eyes and went to sleep.


    Andy stayed by her side before he was sure that she was sleeping. It was 1 a.m. and he got off her bed. He went to her phone and unlocked it. He looked through her phone history until there was a number that looked familiar to him.


    He called it but it went to voicemail.


    "Hello, Mike Zhao here. You have reached my number but I am unavailable at this moment. Please --"


    Andy hung up the phone. Why is Eva in contact with Mike Zhao? Was he not the bastard son who wants to steal the fortune from Ming Zhao?


    Andy was not in good term with any of the other kings, but being a top elite himself, he does not like someone who was a money seeker as Mike Zhao. In terms of choosing between the two brothers, he would side with Ming Zhao, who was the real heir of the Zhao empire.


    He stared at the woman who was peacefully sleeping on her bed. He walked over and kissed her forehead. "Goodbye, my love."


    He had the proof he needed. He used the antidote like what Lena said. But he was heartbroken and torn apart. He did not know what to do next.


    He went to his room, changed out of his pajamas, grabbed his stuff and left the apartment.

 Chapter 155 - Number one.

    Instead of driving home right away, Lena stopped at a grocery store to do some late-night food shopping. She only got two bags of food so it would be easy for her to carry it to her apartment.


    She walked to her door, placed her bags on the ground, and took out her key to unlock the door. She opened the door and grabbed her bags. She was about to bring her arm to turn on the light but she saw a suddenly say a person standing in her dark hallway.


    Her first reaction was to throw something which she did. She tossed one bag of her groceries at the dark figure and jumped forward for a punch. The figure dodged the bag of food and grabbed Lena''s hand. The person turned Lena around and held her arm up high.


    "It''s just me."


    Lena stopped her struggle. She used her free hand to turn on the light. "Kris?" Kris let go of the woman. "My f*cken god... I swear you are really cursed every time you are inside my house."


    Lena looked down at her bag of grocery that she tossed at him. Then, she looked up at him. "How the f*cuk did you even get in here?"


    Kris did not dare tell her that he owns this place... so technically he has the master key to all the residents here. He did not reply to Lena.


    "Why are you even here? You were supposed to come back tomorrow." She looked back down on her broken eggs that were leaking out of the container. "Eff you... you owe me some eggs."


    "You told me to come back so I did." He spoke softly.


    Actually, he did rush to get back home on an earlier flight than what was scheduled. Collin had to be co-pilot because they flew out of schedule. He did not really know why, but he felt like he was missing something.


    He found himself in front of Lena''s door. He knocked but no one was home. He went back up to his own place, showered, and tried to find something to eat but got bored. He went back to check on Lena if she was home yet, but nope. He got tired of waiting that he went to get the master key and went in himself.


    He felt like this was what he was missing... but there was something else too that he could not pinpoint the feeling. He left the lights off and closed his eyes on Lena''s living room. He did not open his eyes until he heard the noises of bags and keys jingling. He got up and stood in the hallway.


    She was finally home... he smiled. He did not expect the next moment to be a flying bag of grocery to his face.


    "Ugh..." Lena picked up the bag from the floor and put it in the kitchen. "That''s something you say to everyone who is away. I did not mean it literally."


    Kris looked like an unwanted kid in her house. Lena rolled her eyes. "Well... you''re here now. Welcome back."


    Kris smiled. "Thanks."


    "Now, put my food away." Lena commanded.


    "What?!"


    "You broke into my house. The least you can do is put my grocery away."


    Lena needed to check on Eva and Andy. She knew that Andy would go back to the apartment. And with the pictures that James sent to Eva, she would definitely do something tonight.


    She grabbed her laptop and open the live recording of the microphone in Eva''s house. She put on her headphones and brought her laptop to the living room. Kris was still putting her stuff away.


    Lena could hear Eva in the bathroom and she was groaning. Lena smiled. She must have taken the pills already. Lena looked up to Kris who seems to be struggling with putting grocery away. She remembered when he was groaning on the bathroom floor too.


    While Lena was spying on the two people, Kris was figuring out what items go in the fridge and what items go in the cupboard. He had never done this before.... but it should be plain simple right?


    He was sorting the items. He looked at Lena and she was not looking at him. He smiled and just gave up. He stuffed everything in the refrigerator. Better be safe than sorry. He rubbed his hands and stared at his great work.


    Kris walked up to Lena and bent down to see what she was doing. He looked at her screen and it was nothing but he knew she was listening to a live recording. He gently pulled one earphone out of Lena''s ear and put it in his.


    "Shhh." Lena put a finger on her lips.


    Kris sat down right next to her on the floor and scooted himself near her because the headphone wires were not that long. He looked at her focused face. He could see that she had her hair down today too. She looked pretty. Her lashes were so long and her lip....


    A noise from the earphone interrupted his thoughts. He tried to focus on the noise... it was people kissing? He stared at Lena in confusion. "What kind of thing are you listening to?"


    "Shh!!" Lena glared at Kris. The microphone was already not picking much sound... she did not need Kris talking. "Give them one more minute," Lena whispered. She removed her earphone and placed hers on the other ear of Kris''. She grabbed a burner phone from her living room drawer and called Andy.


    Kris did not know what was going on. He could make a few guesses because he could hear the phone ring from whatever he was listening. Then he heard them talk. It was Andy... so he must be with Eva.


    Lena hung up the call and then scooted back to sit next to Kris. She removed one earphone from Kris and put is back on her ear. She smiled at him.


    ''She''s so pretty....Aish..'' Kris could feel his face heating up. He took off the earphone. "I need to use the bathroom." He got up and walk to the bathroom.


    "Wait! Is it number one or number two!"


    Kris laughed at her question. She asked him that same one last time too. "Number one." You''re number one...


    He walked in and closed the door.


    Lena heard that nothing else that was happening so they must be sleeping now. She was glad that nothing happened tonight. Andy was saved! He owes her one. Lena was not going to let Eva win this round. Lena removed her earphones.


    Kris got out of the bathroom and looked at Lena. "I am hungry."


    "What?!" Lena was getting tired of babysitting Kris. "It''s late... no good place delivers this late."


    "You had something. I saw it."


    Lena looked at her kitchen. "You mean the ramen noodles?"


    "Yeah.. whatever that is."


    Lena got up and chuckled softly. "Fine... but I am charging you for this VIP service. And there will be an extra tax for it being so late too."


    Kris did not care. He was really hungry....


    Lena went to the kitchen. She was a bit hungry too so she decided to cook for both of them. She took out the packet noodles and boiled some water. There were exactly two eggs that were not cracked so she will use those too. She took out some vegetables to make a lavish ramen noodle dinner for both of them.


    Kris was sitting in the living room, secretly taking pictures and fangirling by himself without him knowing it. Lena was fully focused on cooking that she did not notice his creepy behavior.


    The noodle was almost done so she set up the dining table for both of them. She split the pot for both of them and placed them on the table.


    Just when she was going to call Kris to eat... her doorbell rung.


    Lena was not expecting anyone this late. Did Kris invite his weirdos? She walked up to look at the peephole. ''SHIT!''


    Lena turned back to Kris and high whispered to him. "HIDE! HIDE!" The doorbell rung again.


    "What? who is ---" Lena cover his mouth and dragged him to her room.


    "Stay... and don''t f*cken make a single noise."


    Lena closed her bedroom door. She did a quick scan to make sure that Kris did not leave anything out in the open. She tucked his shoes in the hallway closet and went to open the door.


    "Andy?!"

 Chapter 156 - Sleep with a friend

    Andy left the apartment and drove around a bit. He did not want to go back to the Yang mansion and his own penthouse was too far from here. He looked at the time and it was getting very late. He glanced at where he was and noticed that he was near Lena''s place.


    Shen Milli gave Andy Lena''s address once before so he could go and apologize to her but he never did. He drove his car to Lena''s place.


    All the doors were closed and you could not go in without the key access card. However, there was always security on watch 24/7. Andy told him that he was a friend of Lena and showed several pictures of them.


    The guard knew who Andy Yang was so he let him go in.


    Andy went up to the elevator and when he arrived at Lena''s door, he saw that her light was still on. She must not be asleep yet. He rung the doorbell. He waited for a minute before rining it again. After a few seconds, Lena opened the door.


    "Andy?!"


    "Hey...you were right." Andy looked down on the floor.


    Lena saw a broken man. Andy did not have many friends. His crazy mother did not really allow him to get close to anyone because she said they are all using him. Madam Yang said that no one is really your friend if you are in a higher position than them.


    Kris cracked open the bedroom door a bit when he heard Lena said "Andy." Kris was irritated why the man was here. ''He has his own woman at home! Were they not just kissing?! Don''t you dare invite that nasty man inside your house, Lena!!''


    "Come on in." Lena opened the door wider and let Andy in. He took off his shoes and Lena glanced at Kris. She nudged her head to tell Kris to close the damn door.


    "Do you have a guest over?" Andy asked.


    Lena looked at him in surprise and quickly responded. "No." She shook her head. "Why do you ask?"


    "You have two bowls of ramen over there." Andy looked at the dining table and Lena looked at where he was looking. ''SHIT! I forgot about that.''


    "Oh... both are for me."


    "You eat in two bowls?"


    "Yeah.. to remind me how much I eat. If I just keep using one bowl, then I feel like I only ate one bowl so I will eat more. I don''t want to gain weight."


    ''Yet she was still eating two bowls...'' Andy smiled a bit. "You''re funny."


    "You want the other bowl? Stress eating is good."


    Andy walked over and sat on the dining table. He took a bite of the ramen noodle. "It''s good." He took another big bite. "It''s funny, eating this makes me miss your cooking."


    Lena sat down across from Andy. "Does Eva not cook for you? She must know how to cook."


    "She does... but only her kind of food."


    Lena knew what Andy meant. Andy was a person who did not like to eat "pauper food." It was either food made by professional chefs or from 5-star hotels. Lena learned to cook from top chefs just for Andy. Lena did not want to tell him that the ramen was prepackaged ramen....


    Andy tried slurping his ramen but failed. He scooped it up and ate it instead. "Can I stay over tonight?"


    *BAM*


    Both Lena and Andy turned their heads toward the noise. It came from her bedroom.


    "What was that?" Andy stood up to go check the noise but Lena walked in front of him.


    "It''s nothing. The shower just makes weird noises sometime soon. I am getting it to fix. NASTY noises that don''t know how to SHUT UP when people are trying NOT TO DIE." Lena raised her voice on every larger note to make sure Kris heard her.


    "Oh... but can I stay tonight? You do have an extra room, right?" Andy walked back to the dining table and ate the bowl of ramen.


    "Yeah, you can." Lena walked to the dining room too and ate her ramen. But before she could take a bite, her phone had a text notification.


    She glanced at it and dropped her utensil on the table to text back.


    Lena: Are you out of your fken mind!! I already told him yes


    Lena put down her phone to eat again but Kris kept texting back at her. She glanced back down on her phone and panicked.


    Lena: Don''t u dare come out!


    Kris: It''s me or him.


    Lena: You don''t send a broken-hearted friend out in the middle of the night. He will go drinkin!


    Kris: Men can drink


    Lena: Then I go drink with him


    Kris stopped texting. He recalled the last time Lena was drunk and an image of her doing the same thing to Andy struck his mind. He shook off the thought and text back to Lena.


    Kris: He can stay


    Lena: Good *thumbs up emoji* Conversation over


    Kris: But u can''t stay here


    Lena: DUDE!!


    Kris: He''s drugged. He can eat u


    Lena: I''ll punch him in the nose


    Kris: Stay at my place or I come out


    Lena: NONONONONONONONONONON >:C


    Just as Lena sent the message and Kris read it, he opened Lena''s door. Lena was sitting opposite of Andy but facing the bedroom hallway so she saw that Kris opened the door. Lena quickly stood up and slammed her hands on the table.


    "STOP! Okay, OKAY!" She shouted.


    Kris smirked at her and closed the door. Andy looked up at Lena in confusion.


    "If you don''t want me to stay... I can go to a hotel."


    "No... You can stay here. I have an extra room. I''ll just go upstairs and sleep with a friend."


    "You have a friend who lives here?"


    "Uh.. yeah. I took care of his-- I mean HER dog a few days ago and we are good buddies. I texted her already and she said I can go stay with her." Lena smiled innocently at Andy, hoping he would take the lie.


    "Ok. Sorry to bother you."


    "Are you going to shower?" Lena asked. "I have some men''s clothing."


    Andy looked at Lena wondering why she has men clothing. Kris, whose ear is like superman also heard that and wondered why too.


    "They are for Noah. You know him, he was one of my bodyguards. His birthday is soon. " Lena lied. They were actually for Gary... but she can''t say that. "I can just go buy new ones, I am not that poor."


    ''NOT POOR!'' Kris was laughing silently. ''Why are you always charging me then? And that a**hole ate my food.''


    Lena picked up both of their bowls and washed it in the sink. She walked back to Andy. "I''ll take you to your room."


    Lena took Andy to the room that had a restroom attached to it. "Do you need anything else before I go to leave?"


    "No. Thanks, Lena."


    "Yeah. We''ll talk tomorrow." Lena closed the door. She heard Andy went to the bathroom and the shower was running.


    She quickly went to her room to see a Kris who was lying on her beautiful bed. She stuck out a middle finger at him.


    Kris stood up from the bed and walked to Lena. He went close to her and whispered to her ears. "I''ll wait for you outside." And he quietly walked out.


    Lena wanted to grab his hair and slammed his head on the door but refrained from such physical attack. She quickly packed her pajamas in a bag and left. She left Andy a copy of the apartment keys and told him that he can eat anything from the kitchen.


    She got outside and Kris was holding the elevator for her already. He had his poker face on but he was very happy. Kris did not know why he was so happy.


    Lena hoped onto the elevator and it went up. When they finally reached the top floor, Kris stepped out and walked to open his door. Lena noticed that he was barefoot.


    "Where''s your shoe?"


    "I don''t know. You hid it somewhere."


    That''s right. Lena hid it in the closet. They can''t go back to get it because Andy might be out of the shower already. It should be fine though... since Andy has no reason to open the closet door.


    "C'' mon. What are you waiting for? Are you gonna sleep there?" Kris hollered over to Lena.

 Chapter 157 - Cant sleep

    Kris turned on the light to his empty home. Lena walked in and stared at the familiar place. It''s been a while since she was here.


    She walked to the guest room and closed the door. She knew the house like the back of her mind. She locked the door and went to take a shower. Halfway through, she noticed Kris has no toiletries... She just took a shower without shampoo or body wash.


    Kris did not mind her. As long as she was here and not down there with that stranger. he went to his room and took a shower.


    When he got out, he went to check on Lena, but the door was still locked. It was already very late. He looked at his phone and he got a goodnight text from Lena. He went back to his room and laid on his hard bed.


    He placed a hand on his heart. He was feeling.... happy. And happiness was a good thing. He looked at the picture of his mom and a younger version of himself that was on the side of his bed.


    He only had a few days until her birthday... he does not know if he was ready or not.


    Kris turned off the lamp and tried to go to sleep. He found himself continuously tossing and turning on this "supposedly" comfortable bed. Why was it that he could not sleep tonight? Was it because he was lying down so peacefully on Lena''s bed before that he does not like this bed anymore? Does he like a soft bed instead?


    Kris got up. He grabbed the master key from his drawers and went to Lena''s room. He quietly opened the door. He saw her sleeping soundlessly. What kind of woman can sleep so deadly when there was another man around?


    He walked up to the bed and pressed on it. It was soft and squishy like Lena''s bed. He looked at Lena again. He ninja picked her up and moved her to his room. His other guest room does not have a bed.


    He went back to Lena''s room and plopped himself on the bed. He closed his eyes. A few minutes later, he opened them and continue to toss and turn too. It was not the bed.... He sat up. He was tired but he can''t sleep. What the hell?!


    He went back to his room and picked Lena up again. He placed her down back in the guestroom. He covered her up with the blanket and stared at her sleeping face. He slowly removed the hair her hair that was blocking his view.


    Kris yawned. He was getting very sleepy now... was it because of her? He laid next to Lena and stared at her. He gently placed a hand on her cheek and caressed the soft small face of hers. He looked at her long lashes and down to her pink lips.


    He smiled. Those were the lips that kissed him... no, it was the lips that he kissed. He softly pinched Lena''s cheeks but she did not budge one bit. Looking at the beautiful face, Kris knew... Lena was not a friend.


    Kris went on all fours; hands and knee between Lena. He was above her motionless body. "You''re mine and I am a dangerous man."


    He placed his right hand on the side of her face and bent down to kiss those lips that he had been staring at all night. The lips that have been haunting him in his dreams. He knew that it was wrong, but the cowardness of him would not be able to do this if she was awake.


    His cold lips touched the small lips of Lena. He pressed gently on hers and parted away after a few seconds. He was not missing home, nor Lena''s home... he was missing her.


    "That was practice, let''s do it for real now." Kris whispered in a deep husky voice, using the same exact phrase that Lena said to him.


    He dived into Lena''s tender lips and sweetly sucked on the top and bottom lips. He kissed her deeply, just how she taught him. He pressed her nose and she opened her mouth instinctively to breath.


    The instant it opened, he stuck his tongue in, exploring every crevice of her mouth, trying to recall every single part of it. He did not want to overdo it so he left the inside of her mouth, licking any excess liquid that escaped his exploration. He sucked on her lower lip gently before lifting his head to look back at the pretty lady once more.


    His hand was still caressing her now warm cheek. "That''s punishment, for being a bad liar. For pretending you don''t remember what you did to me... now you really won''t remember this."


    He kissed her forehead and use his fingers to wipe her lips dry. He promised himself to stop after one time... but he had still not punished her for openly letting a man inside her home, feed him HIS food, and letting him stay.


    He bent down to Lena''s bottom lip and bit it until he could feel it bleeding a bit.


    "Ah.." Lena softly let a small cry of pain. She slowly opened her eyes but Kris put his hand over her eyes. He licked the blood and then kiss her forehead again.


    "You''re dreaming... go back to sleep."


    He had one arm under Lena, holding her head. He pushed it toward his chest and he rolled over to the side to be next to Lena instead of on top of her. His hand that was covering her eye, he removed them and patted Lena softly on the back so she would go back to sleep.


    Once he was sure she was sleeping again... he let his arms relax but still hugged her tightly against him. "Sorry... but I am a selfish man.. the best fish in the sea." He smiled and closed his eyes.

 Chapter 158 - Old love

    Kris only slept for a bit but it was the best sleep he had in years. He woke up before Lena could find him with her. He closed the door and locked it.


    It was still early and Lena went to sleep late last night so he let her sleep some more. He called James to tell him about the situation with Andy staying at Lena''s house and how SHE decided to stay over at his apartment instead. James rather had Lena with Kris than Andy.


    James replied back that he will notify Diane that Lena would not be coming into the office today. Kris'' house had no food and Lena would definitely want to eat something when she wakes up. Kris had also not eaten dinner at all yesterday so he was preparing to go out to go buy some stuff.


    On the other hand, Andy woke up too. He had several text messages from Eva asking where he went so early in the morning. Andy texted her back and said he had an emergency at work but he will stay over at her place again tonight.


    The clothes that Lena gave to him, none of them had work clothes. However, he had several of them at his office. He woke up and prepared his morning. He texted Lena but she did not reply. He wondered if she went to work already.


    Andy called her office, but Diane said that she won''t be coming in today. Andy just sent a text message to Lena to say that he was ready to talk to her about the situation, that he was ready for the truth.


    He went to get a cold drink from Lena''s fridge. When he opened it, he was confused about why Lena put canned food and junk food in her fridge. Wouldn''t the chips go stale? Andy ignored what he saw and just poured himself a cold drink.


    He went to the hallway to get out the door but tripped over Lena''s plenty of slippers in her house. Why did she need so many? Andy picked all but one pair and tossed them into the shoe closet.


    He was about to close it, but a pair of black leather shoes caught his eyes. He grabbed it, even though it was covered by other nonsense. The leather shoe was a highly expensive shoe that Lena would not be able to afford so easily. It was also slightly used... so it was not a gift. Could Lena be seeing someone?


    Andy smiled. It''s a good thing to move on from old love. He put the shoe back where he found it.


    "Old love..." Was his love for Eva already old?


    He walked out the door and locked it. He had the spare key with him but he will give it back to Lena later when they talk.


    Andy went down the elevator and head out to his car. He stopped walking when he thought he saw Kris Li droving off in a car. Andy blinked. He must have seen that wrong. Well, it was possible. This place was higly expensive and one of the most lavishing places to live for young adults. He still wondered how Lena was to afford such a place.


    Even he got denied to live here. Andy shrugged off his thoughts and went to his car.


    -----


    Lena slowly opened her eyes. She did not get up until way later and it was very bright outside already. She sat up and stretched her hands and yawn.


    "Ow!" Lena touched the bottom of her lips. ''Oh what???!''


    She could feel a small spot of hardened blood on her lips. When did this happen? She covered her eyes with both of her hands. She recalled that she had a very intense make-out session with a steaming hot man in her dream.


    Lena''s leg squirm from the intimate memory. She does not remember his face... but did she bit her lips? Was her dream so intense she bit her own lips?


    Lena blushed. ''This is so embarrassing.'' She woke up and looked at the clock. ''F*CK!'' She was late for work!


    She called Diane but she told Lena that James already informed her that Lena would not come to the office today. Diane already rescheduled everything for Lena.


    Lena got up and check if her door was still locked. It was. She could hear some noises from outside so Kris must be awake already.


    Even though Kris had no shampoo or body wash, he had spare toothbrushes in the guest room. Lena gently brushed her teeth and combed her hair. She tried to carefully wipe the stain from her lips. Luckily, it disappeared and she was left with a red spot on her lips.


    She changed to a new pair of clothes and then walked out of the room. Lena walked to the living room and could smell a familiar scent. She walked to the kitchen and sat on the dining table as she looked at what Kris was doing.


    Kris turned around with a dashing smile. "Morning! Or should I say afternoon."


    "Hi." Lena replied with no expression. There was definitely somet bright lights coming out of Kris today. Lena wondered who was going to die today.


    "I made us food."


    Lena coughed, almost choking on her own saliva. "Food? You made it?!" Lena felt like she was going to eat some poison. It was her who was going to die today... wasn''t it?


    "RA-MEN.. Food men can make." Kris walked over to the table and placed two bowls of ramen on it.


    At first glance, the food looked good. It was not burnt nor did the broth look diluted. Lena continued to stare at the food and Kris was impatiently expecting her to taste it.


    "I followed the recipe. Taste it." He spoke.


    Lena looked up at Kris. "If I die... make sure Gary gets my money."


    "You won''t die." I won''t let you die... not yet anyway.


    Lena used the spoon and tasted the broth. It was good. She just ate ramen yesterday but she does not mind eating it again. It was free food.... cheap free food. "You went out to buy this right?"


    Kris was somewhat irritated. CAN THIS WOMAN JUST TASTE HIS HARD WORK ALREADY?!


    "Yeah." He replied, not showing his irritation.


    "You could have bought the entire store... and you bought.. ramen." Lena grabbed a big chunk of the noddle and raised it up.


    "Last time you bought me cheap food too." Kris retorted back.


    "That is indeed correct." Lena took a big bite of the food but stopped before continuing.


    "What''s wrong now?!" Kris snapped.


    Lena ignored him and touched her lips. Why did she have to bit her lips? Was god so angry he punished her to not eat?


    Kris cleared his throat when he realized that Lena was touching her lips... It was his fault that she stopped eating.


    "I''ll make you something else." Kris stood up but Lena stopped him.


    "It''s fine. I bet this is the only thing you bought... I just need to take smaller bites."


    This was the only thing he bought...


    The first market he went to was a high-end rich people market that did not have ramen. Then he went to a local store and all the old ladies chased him around like a dog. He was scared that he was going to lose his virginity! It took him a while to look for where the ramen was.


    Then... when he purchased the two packets of ramen and handed the cashier his black unlimited card, the cashier almost fainted. He had a rough morning...


    Lena took a small bit of the ramen and slowly ate.


    "I won''t do it again." Kris was referring to biting Lena on the lip.


    "Hmm?" Lena had food in her mouth.


    "Nothing."


    Kris stared at her happy eating face and he ate his bowl of ramen too. He took the first bite and almost threw up. Not because it tasted bad... but it tasted... like cheap. He was not really picky with his food but this... this was worse than spoiled bread. He kept eating though.

 Chapter 159 - Play all the cards

    Lena finished her bowl of noodle first and washed her own dish. She went back and sat at the table as she waited for Kris to finish his food. Kris quickly finished his food and passed the bowl to Lena. Lena stared at him confusingly.


    "You want me to wash that?" She asked.


    "Is that not why you are still here?" Kris thought that Lena did not leave because she was being nice and waiting for him to finish and then wash the dish since he cooked.


    Lena did not complain, grabbed the bowl and washed it. She went back and sat on the table. "We need to talk."


    "About."


    "Andy."


    Him... What is there to talk about him? "What about him?"


    "I have him turning away from Eva now. But I need to know when you are going to hit Mayor Bai so we can do it together. I also don''t want Andy running wild doing his own thing."


    "So what''s your plan?"


    Lena told Kris that there were still some unsolved questions on her side of things. She still needed to find the real relationship between Eva and Madam Yang. Kris told Lena that on his side of things, he was ready to take down Mayor Bai. But Kris said that taking down Madam Yang should be something Gary and he should be doing.


    Lena was confused why the two men were pushing her out of the plan but she did not want to ask Kris. She felt like she needed to talk to Gary instead.


    Lena put on her slippers and got ready to leave. She turned back to Kris.


    "Oh... I almost forgot. How about your mom? Her birthday is on Monday isn''t it?"


    "Yeah..." Kris was confident that there was not a speck on Lena that he would not be able to touch... but he does not know about another woman.


    "Don''t worry about it. We''ll work it out." Lena gave the big man a pat on the shoulder and left.


    Lena went back to her apartment to get some stuff ready for her meeting with Andy. She downloaded some stuff that Noah had sent her regarding Eva and Mike''s affair. She also got the medical record that Tye sent her.


    She does not know if she will need to use them all to bring Andy 100% away from Eva, but she will try. Lena knew that she could not tell Andy about Gary being his half-brother because that is something Gary needs to do himself.


    Lena needed to play all the cards she has.


    ----


    Lena texted Andy that she will be coming to his office soon. It was better if they met in a professional setting rather than somewhere else.


    Lena parked her car and walked into the tall building. She went up to the elevator and landed on Andy''s floor. Sophia greeted Lena and opened the door for her.


    Lena walked in and saw that Andy was standing and looking out the window. He''s going to do that a lot more. He was also going to continue to ask him about what went wrong in the relationship. Lena as been through and done that.


    "You sure you are ready?"


    Andy turned around and saw Lena. He sat down on his chair and nodded his head. "Yeah. It''s now or never."


    Lena sat down on a chair across from him. "The antidote. A friend gave it to me after I got hold of the pills."


    Lena did not want to go into too many details. She was ready to lie to Andy but not make an entirely fake story. Keeping a fake story to the real fact as close as possible was easier to keep the story straight for next time.


    "So how did I get a hold of the pills? Mike Zhao." Lena observed the changes in Andy''s reaction and saw that he knew something about Mike. "You should know him, the bastard son in the Zhao family. But anyway, he was a man.... how do I make this sound nicer... a man who can''t keep his pants up."


    "Typical of bastards.." Andy spoke.


    NOT GARY!! Lena screamed in her head. Gary was the exact opposite of Mike. "He approached me, used the pills on me, but I escaped. Managed to grab one for my own testing. I approached him again the next time, strictly for business. I told him I wanted in on his product line so I could get information on him."


    "It was that easy.. for you?"


    "He liked big boobs... what can I say." Lena smiled cunningly at Andy.


    Andy was surprised to see Lena in such a new mask. She was always very self-conscious about her bigger body parts than most Asian girls.


    "Along the way... I did not expect him to throw the name of Eva in his client list. And not only as a client who pays with money... but payment through something else. And..."


    Andy closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "You can continue."


    "He told me... she was not even a virgin when he had her. You... didn''t sleep with her yet right?"


    "No."


    "Okay." Lena handed Andy a memory disk. "These contain the interactions between Mike and Eva. I was not particularly interested in her but more about him. But I organized the data that I have on both of them."


    Andy took the disk from her. "Why are you so interested in Mike?"


    Lena lied a bit on that part. She was more interested in Eva but put the blame on Mike. She did not want Andy to know she purposely targetted Eva all along.


    "My relationship with Ming Zhao."


    "What is your relationship with him?'' Andy was curious now. Could he be the man that Lena was seeing? It could possibly be Ming. Andy had seen them together at several events before. They were close and happy together.


    "I can''t tell you that." Lena smiled. "There is something else that needs to be considered and I know you would know more about it than me."


    "What is it?" Andy asked.


    "Your mom. No matter how much I try to think about why she accepted Eva so easily, I can''t find any good answers. Madam Yang had always been very strict on you and me... but with Eva... it was like she needed Eva desperately. And she turned into a nice mother-in-law overnight.


    And don''t you dare tell me you haven''t noticed it as awkward. Even Hazel got the goosebumps. Your eyes are opened now, Andy. Tell me, what is it that makes both of them so close to each other?"


    Andy paused to think. He knew that Eva and his mom had been very close. He had shrugged it off as his mother finally giving in to his demands about marrying Eva and she just went on with it. But as Lena said, his eyes were opened now.


    "A baby." Andy answered.


    "A what?"


    "Lena, whatever we speak here is just strictly between us. I can trust you, correct?"


    "Andy, if I did not trust you, I would not tell you about what I discovered too." She went and held his hand. "You''re not my man anymore, but you are still my older brother, remember?"


    "My mother needs a baby."


    "Why?"


    "No ones knows yet, but my dad has been very sick lately. The Yang business has always been run by the family. If my father passes away, the next heir is not my mother nor me. An heir is only chosen if that heir already has a replacement for him. That means a kid. I don''t have a kid and a woman cannot be the next heir. That means my uncle can take the position."


    Lena rolled her eyes in her mind. What was with this stupid heir stuff and tradition? The Zhaos... then now the Yangs... Lena does not want to think about what stupid thing the Li family has. They already have a stupid curse, what other nonsense do they need?


    "Eva is the woman I love... was. If she can get pregnant, it counts. Even though it does not guarantee it until the baby is born, I will still hold the position until then. Even then, knowing my mother... I can marry a different woman while Eva still has my baby."


    Andy''s father is the current heir, but his position can only be passed down to his son if Andy has someone after him. This was not to secure the heir position... but to also continue the family line of the Yang family. Having a child means that the heir is not impotent.


    "Is your family through kinship or the father''s side only?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "Like... what if I married you, had a kid but you died. I remarried someone else had a kid with my new husband... would my second kid still be able to be a backup heir to the Yang family fortune?"


    "Of course. When a woman married into the Yang family, they take our family name. That is the situation with my uncle now... you remember him, Uncle Sam."


    "So even if there is no kid, but lots of brothers, the position can still be secured between the brothers?"


    "Yes, but I am the only child."


    Andy''s father was Drew Yang. Drew had a brother, Daniel. Daniel married a wife but he died later on. The wife remarried and gave birth to Uncle Sam. Uncle Sam changed his last name to Yang after the Yang elders allowed to accept him into the family lineage through his mother. He has a chance to be an heir because he has three sons.


    However, if the backup of the Yang heir has a son or brother, that person would secure the position first. This means that... with Gary alive, Andy does not need a baby... he just needed a brother.

 Chapter 160 - Garys comeback

    Lena lowered her head. No, it would not work out like that because Gary already told her that he does not want anything to do with the Yang family. He has no interest in the wars that these men are going through.


    Lena really missed Gary... she would need to call him soon. She felt that something else was strange with how Drew Yang only got sick recently. A memory flashed through Lena''s mind.


    "How long ago did your dad first started to get sick?"


    "Just a few weeks ago." Andy answered.


    "He was at your engagement. He seemed healthy then."


    "It was a few days after that, he just suddenly collapsed one morning. His body went weak. The doctor can''t tell us exactly how a perfectly healthy body went numbed all of sudden."


    Lena thought back to what Mike Zhao said about the poison. The poison would be effective a few weeks after used and the person would die in his/her sleep. But, Mike said that he had not sold it to anyone else, unless he did... or the medicine was not his in the first place. There must be an original distributor that was not Mike.


    "Does your Uncle Sam hate your father at all?"


    "No... he just recently got his eyes on the company when my grandfather told him about the whole next heir thing. He originally only joined back to the Yang family by freeloading off my dad''s and our hard work. You should remember when he joined the family... he was way older than us and we always called him uncle and kept it like that. After all, he''s not a direct bloodline of the men in the Yang family. "


    People do horrible things for money and power. Look at Madam Yang, her whole life was dedicated to buildings her power and money. She thought that marrying into the Yang family will secure her power, but little did she knew that woman are nothing but breeding pigs for the Yang family.


    Even the Li family think of women as just people to bore kids to continue the family line. An increase to the family power, and to have kids... that''s all a woman was at the top of the pyramid. Lena was somewhat happy she does not need to deal with that.


    Uncle Sam definitely does not like Madam Yang though, since the woman despised him since he joined the Yang family. There was no way that he could be helping her.


    "Did you mom only know about the recent stuff on family heir?"


    "We all did. Only my father knew beforehand. Why?"


    "Nothing... I think I answered most of your question." Lena stood up from her seat. "I do have an advice for you though. Don''t delay or cancel your engagement just yet... Find out all you need to know from her and then you can let her go. You can move on easier that way."


    Lena walked out of the office and back to the elevator. She was still heavily thinking. Madam Yang did not know about any of the heir stuff until recently. She could only be the mastermind behind Gary''s "death" and what happened to Drew Yang. If she got rid of her mistake, Gary, and her old husband, Drew, that means her Andy could easily have the Yang fortune to himself.


    Her planned must have backfired when Drew did not die... and she realized her initial plan was not going to work. She must have evil luck since Drew did not die. With Gary already gone, her only next guarantee was a baby.


    Lena exited the building and went to sit in her car. She dialed Gary''s number.


    "Hello?" Gary answered.


    "Can I come to visit you on Sunday night?"


    "Aren''t you going to be with Kris?"


    "Why would I be with him? He doesn''t need me to hold his hands in everything he does."


    "Heh... you''re as evil as ever. Was that all?"


    "No.." Lena needed to ask him one more time. "There is something else. Do you...still love me?" It felt weird saying the word love out of her mouth to Gary.


    "That''s such a random question." Gary responded. "You want me to answer you through the phone? It''s not special then.."


    "I know. But I need to know now."


    "No, I don''t." Gary answered her straight. "I realized I stopped loving a long time ago. I loved the Lena who bullied me non-stop, paid no mind to me, and fake cried all the time to get attention. I know that you have been more of a friend to me lately rather than a love interest."


    Lena''s mouth opened wide a bit. Not from the shock that Gary did not love her anymore, but because he had a weird fetish for the old Lena... And here Lena thought, no one really loves the old Lena but she guessed... only Gary was really meant for the old Lena.


    Lena was happy that Gary realized that there was a change in Lena''s personality, and that she was not completely a different person but different from the woman he loved. Gary continued to surprise her since his awakening. She guessed near-death experiences do really change people.


    "Are you heartbroken? Don''t start fake crying over the phone."


    "I am not!" Lena yelled back. "Thanks... I was so not ready to reject a man who almost died. And Gary.."


    "Hmmm."


    "You''re still the 3rd best man that I like the most."


    "I know. See you Sunday night."


    Gary hung up the phone. He looked at the man who was eavesdropping on his conversation the whole time.


    "Are you not going to tell her you''re making your star debut comeback in City A already?" The man joked.


    "She doesn''t need to know yet. I told you that already, Kris." Gary looked at Kris.


    "I know. Finish your stuff so we can leave." Kris told Gary. Kris did not know why today he was on watch duty for the vegetable boy.


    Gary opened the door of the room he exited from to take Lena''s call. He walked inside to the large room.


    Gary stared at the man who was lying in a large comfortable bed with many medical machines near him. Gary pulled a chair and sat down. The sick man had a large file in his hand and a tablet playing several CCTV videos to him.


    "Mr. Yang, the evidence is crystal clear... your wife wants you dead." Gary spoke. He held up a syringe. "I can save you, but you need to do something about that wife of yours."

 Chapter 161 - Turn back

    Drew looked at the young man who dared played such dirty tricks on him. He knew exactly who Gary was the moment he walked in. He was more surprised that the young boy was still alive.


    Gary unexpectedly visited him. He showed Drew evidence of all the wrongdoings that Madam Yang had been doing behind his back. Those include her affair, killings, stealing money from the Yang family, and now, planning to ruin Andy''s life.


    Drew knew the woman was not a gem, but her mind was something else. "What do you want, boy? How can I be sure that the thing you are holding is not going to kill me?" He nodded toward the syringe.


    "You don''t. The same as not knowing if the evidence I gave to you is real or not." Gary got up from his chair and stood by the man''s bed, looking down his frail body. "But you know... you know it''s all the truth."


    Drew had always taken countermeasures against his wife. But Andy was different. Madam Yang was his mother before a person he thought that he needed to be wary of.


    "You kept your long history of the family heirloom away from that woman... you had always never trusted her. You probably already knew she cheated on you and had me, didn''t you?"


    "I am not crazy not like her. A child is not defined by his parents." Drew coughed.


    "You know she will kill you once she gets her baby. I can give you the antidote... and you just need to remove her from the Yang family. I''ll take care of the rest."


    Drew stared at Gary. Gary was not the same boy as Drew once knew... Drew never harmed the boy because Gary was living in his own world, away from the witchcraft of his birth mother. Drew was not a totally nice man either. He was not going to let his bloodline be tainted by Sam. That man will destroy the company in one day.


    "Give it to me... I will remove her from the Yang family once I am well."


    Gary walked over to Drew''s IV and stuck the needle in and gave him the antidote. "The nurse from the Li family will give you the antidote injection for the next three days to clear the poison from your system. "


    Gary disposed of the syringe and went back to look at Drew. "And remember, the Li family knows... and they will always be watching you. Don''t delay too long, you know how the game works."


    Gary started to walk out but Drew called to him. "Don''t you want to know who your father is?!"


    Gary turned around. "I already know who he is." He smiled and walked back to the old man. "You know why some people want power and money? So they can protect the people they love, and destroy a**holes like you."


    Gary bent down and whispered something to the man''s ear. Drew started to heavily breathe before he calmed down a bit.


    "Boy, believe me. You should stay away from both of them, your mother and your father. You can still turn back."


    Gary opened the door and walked out. He closed the door shut and stared at it...


    "How was it?" Kris asked.


    "Good."


    Kris patted Gary once on the shoulder and lead the way out. Gary followed behind the man. They walked to the elevator and went inside it. As the elevator door close, Kris glanced at Gary.


    "So... You don''t like Lena anymore?" Kris could not use the word love in a sentence that relates Lena to another man that was not him.


    Gary looked at the stoic man. "Why is it any of your business?"


    "Everything about her is my business."


    "No. I don''t love her anymore." He said as the elevator doors opened. He walked out ahead of Kris. "She''s a walking disaster. As her teacher, you need to teach her how not to be bribed with food."


    "..." Gary was right... Lena needed to be toughened up on a few things. She will need it if she wants to play risky.


    "Are you not going to ask me?" Gary stopped and turned around to look at Kris who was walking like a snail.


    "Ask you what?"


    "Who my father is?"


    Kris smiled and walked past Gary. "I am not Lena. I could guess that a mile away."


    Gary smiled too and jumped up a bit. He wrapped his arm around Kris'' shoulder, who was slightly taller than him. Kris instantly slapped his hand away.


    "Chill... I was just going to tell you that Lena does not like a man who does not know how to cook."


    Kris stopped walking as Gary continued to walk up to a car. "Andy did not know how to cook."


    Gary turned around, walking backward and looked at Kris. "Yeah... and they''re not together anymore. Why do you think she never dated me? Gotta work hard if you want to be her boyfriend." Gary opened the door to the car and sat in the passenger seat.


    Kris watched the car drove off before he went to his own car. "Cook... it''s not that hard..." He successfully made Ramen this morning.


    ----


    Tye dropped and picked up Gary. He was Gary''s chauffeur for everything now and he did not mind it one bit. Tye was sure he heard the word "boyfriend" between the conversation Gary had with Kris. He looked at Gary and then remember the hands he had around Kris.


    ''It couldn''t be.. Gary is gay too?! That means he might have a chance.'' Tye smiled.


    Gary could see that Tye was acting up is crazy doctor minds again. "Your patient is in love."


    "My patient? You are in love??!!." Tye blushed. ''GARY, you can''t confess out of the blue like that. My heart can''t take the surprise!''


    "Kris. Not me. K-R-I-S, Kris. He''s in love."


    Tye burst into a loud laugh as he drove them both back to the safe house. "That boy don''t know love."


    "You don''t need to know love. Love knows you."


    Tye stopped laughing. What Gary said was true! "Wait.. really? No way... or way!" Tye widened his eyes.


    He had been working so hard to hook the two lads up and Kris is the first to fall in love. Tye thought that Lena was going to eat Kris up first? The stupid emotionless robot fell in love first... what a turn of events. How does that logic work? Wait... he needed to text Collin for juicy gossips.


    Tye parked the car off to the side of the road. "You drive. I need to text."


    "Doctor... I am still in recovery."


    "You''re good to drive. I am the doctor, I said so."


    Gary rolled his eyes at Tye. He hopped out of his seat and went to the driver''s seat. Tye sat down comfortably and started texting Collin. He has a three-hour ride to figure out when his patient went rogue on him.

 Chapter 162 - Character Recap+

    Not a chapter but since I have many characters and considering I can''t keep their names straight = A quick rough character recap of everyone that is significant to the story.


    -------------------


    Lena Shen (FL) - 23


    Shen Mao (Dad)


    Shen Milli (Mom)


    Grandpa and Grandma Shen


    Henry Han (Dad''s Secretary) - 28


    Diane (FL''s Secretary)


    Elizabeth Liu (Henry''s GF) - 27


    James (Bodyguard #1)


    Noah (Bodyguard #2)


    Kye (Bodyguard #3, Deceased)


    -------------------


    Andy Yang - 26


    Drew Yang (Dad)


    Madam Yang (Mom)


    Eva Wu (Fiance)


    Gary Chen (Half-brother from Mom''s side) - 24


    Hazel Yang (FL BestFriend, Cousin) - 24


    Daniel Yang (Brother of Drew, Deceased)


    Uncle Sam (Son of Daniel)


    - Kid #1


    - Kid #2


    - Kid #3


    Sophia (Andy''s Secretary)


    -------------------


    Kris Li - 26


    Li Jun (Dad, Deceased)


    Madam Li (Mom - From Wang Family)


    "Li Mistress (Nanny?, Deceased)


    Collin (Kris'' Secretary)


    -------------------


    >>The other weirdo club


    Doctor Tye


    Lay


    Hugh


    Keso (Kris'' Bodyguard)


    -------------------


    Ming Zhao - 25


    Mike Zhao (half-brother from dad''s side)


    Zhao Lin (Dad)


    Madam Zhao (She''s Italian)


    Elder Zhao (Grandpa)


    Old Madam Zhao (Grandma)


    Arnold (Ming''s head scientist)


    Tim (Ming''s Secretary)


    Sophia (Mike''s fling)


    ** Same name as Andy''s secretary but different people. Don''t worry tho.. we won''t see this girl again so there should be no more confusion


    -------------------


    Angel Reynolds (LUX Representative)


    Ben (Elevator man)


    Stella Feng (FL therapist)


    -------------------


    Bai Wentao (Mayor of City A)


    - Son #1 - 24


    - Son #2


    Bai Wei (Running for President, Older Brother of Bai Wentao)


    - Daughter #1


    - Son


    -------------------


    Huang Family:


    Young Master Huang (Hazel''s next target)


    Younger Master Huang??? (Younger bro_)

 Chapter 163 - Talking about love

    Kris did not know his bunch of weirdos was scheming behind his back. He went back to his apartment to clean his place. Since he was back, Lena would be coming back up for their daily therapy session.


    Lena stopped by the grocery store again to buy more ramen and eggs. She opened her apartment door and was more alerted than usually. She does not know when a wild Kris would appear.


    She put the bags on the counter and started to put them away. She put her dry food away first. She opened several cupboards... but cannot seem to find where Kris had put her other food. She opened the fridge, and there they all were, cuddling together in the cold refrigerator.


    ''DAMN YOU KRIS!'' Lena took out the food and reorganized them all. She opened her bag of snacks and some of them went bad while some were still good. She will definitely make sure to charge Kris for this.


    It was almost time for dinner and going to Kris'' penthouse for their therapy session. Lena decided to cook and eat before going up. She took out the ingredients to make curry. She made sure to make plenty of rice too so she can eat this later as her midnight food.


    Just as she was finished cooking, her cellphone rang. She turned off the stove and picked it up.


    "Hello."


    "Hi. Did you eat yet?" Kris asked.


    "No."


    "Great! I cooked dinner for Keso and us. Wanna join us?"


    Lena looked at her pot of curry. She wondered why is cooking so much. Is he practicing cooking to make something for his mom? "Sure. I made something too, it can be a potluck. I''ll be up there soon."


    "Ok."


    Kris hung up the call. Lena packed her rice in a container and put the lid on the pot. She was sure Kris had plates since they ate this afternoon at his place.


    She put the rice container in a bag and carried the pot of curry. She made sure to lock her door before going up the elevator.


    She knocked on the door and Kris opened it. He was going to help her with her items but she carried them in herself. She slipped off her shoes and walked to the dining table where Keso was already eating.


    She tilted her head and looked around the dining table. She plopped her pot of curry and rice on the table. She turned to Kris.


    "This is what you cooked?"


    "Yeah." Kris smiled. He added an egg to the ramen today. It was an improvement from this morning."


    Lena could see that he looked proud. ''Calm down, Lena.. the child is practicing how to cook for his mom...'' How should she word this so it does not sound harsh?


    She cleared her throat. "Kris... how much to you make a day?"


    Kris looked at Lena then at the Ramen. He knew he was getting lectured. "A lot..."


    "How much is a pack of Ramen you bought?"


    "...."


    "The point is... if you want to make a good meal.. try less pre-package.. and more cooking."


    Lena sat down on a chair and tasted the ramen. She made sure to blow on it before eating so it would not irritate her lip.


    She was able to cover the redness of it using lipstick before but they have worn out now. She sipped the broth and took a bite of the egg and smiled at Kris.


    "At least you know how to boil an egg... I don''t even know if my dad knows how to do that."


    Kris'' heart smiled a bit. He sat down across Lena and ate his improved ramen. Keso already finished and he stared at Lena''s pot of curry. She laughed and then passed it to him so he could eat it.


    After their dinner, Lena and Kris head to the rooftop and practiced their dancing up there instead. They started with some faster music and then it became slow. Lena was tired from all the information today. She rested her head on Kris'' as they slow danced. He did not say anything so she just continued as she stared to the night sky.


    "I am going to go see Gary on Sunday night."


    Gary!! Kris was enjoying a nice moment with Lena and she had to say another man''s name... "Ok."


    "I won''t be here when it''s your mom''s birthday... but I''ll come back on Monday night. I am sure you will do fine though."


    "Keso will bring in another woman tomorrow''s session so I can try again." Kris spoke.


    The music stopped and Lena lifted her head up. She parted from Kris and went to sit on the lounge chairs. Kris sat at the chair by her.


    Lena looked up at the night sky. "What do you usually do after your done with an assignment?"


    "You mean like after I kill someone?"


    Lena turned to face Kris, who was looking at her. She did not mean kill... but she guessed that in Kris'' world, his assignment would be that. "Yeah, something like that."


    "Go to the next one. You?"


    She went back to stare at the starts. "I don''t have a next assignment after getting my revenge on Madam Yang. I guess.... I can finally date someone and get married!" Lena''s voice raised from the excitement.


    "Dating?"


    Lena glanced back at Kris. "Yeah. Meet someone and fall in love." She sat up and pat his shoulder. "Don''t worry, you''ll fall in love someday too." She smiled at him.


    He already met her... and he''s already in love with her. It''s not someday, it''s today. "How would I know if I am in love." He played dumb.


    Lena shrugged. "It''s different for everyone. But I would say.... Look at her for more 10 seconds, and if you can''t, then it''s a sign. Put your forehead on hers, then stare at her again. Don''t blink. If you feel like your heart is racing and you feel... happy I guess, then she might be the one.


    You would think about her every night, every day, every second of your life. You want to pamper her like the world is ending tomorrow." Lena closed her eyes and put her hands on her cheeks and squeezed it as she squealed about romance.


    "Your heart and mind are conquered by her. You just know without question that you are in love. But don''t mindlessly fall in love, one-sided feelings can be painful. But if she likes you back, then you ask her out, and if she says yes then, you can go on dates, watch movies, eat cotton candy, and so many more things. Love is a wonderful feeling if that person loves you back."


    He stared at her eyes as it sparkled from the night light. She feels so happy, talking about love. And she was right, it would be more wonderful if she would love him back too.


    He put his hand on her cheek and used his thumb to caress her lip where he bit her last night. Lena stopped daydreaming about romance and stared at Kris. ''What is he doing?''


    "Does it hurt?" Kris asked, still rubbing his thumb gently on it.


    "No." Lena softly replied.


    Kris'' face went closer to her. She thought that he was going to kiss her but he blew on her lips.. comforting the small pain from the rubbing he was doing. She blinked.


    Kris removed his hand from her face and stood up. "I''ll go get you some medicine." He quickly left.


    ''What was that?'' Lena touched her lips... ''Why was I expecting a kiss... Aiya.. my mind has gone dirty again.'' She slapped her forehead gently.


    Kris went down the stairs but stopped when he knew he was out of her sight.


    ''SHIT!'' Kris screamed at himself. He was really tempted to kiss her but stopped himself before going any further. He blew on her lips and made an excuse. He does not have any f*cken medicine....

 Chapter 164 - Evening event

    Lena waited patiently for Kris to come back with his medicine. She was a bit surprised that he had medicine, considering last time he did not. But she guessed, he was finally stocking his house with daily things.


    Lena could finally see Kris'' head popping out of the stairs after a few more minutes. He walked over to Lena and handed her a chapstick. She looked at his amazing medicine. ''Did she had a chapped lip?''


    She took his offer anyway and put it on. When she was done, she handed it back Kris.


    Lena smiled at him. "Thanks. It''s late now, so I will go. I still have my shooting lesson tomorrow with James. See you later." She walked down the stairs.


    Kris stared at her until her figure left his sight. He glanced down at the chapstick he gave her. He uncapped it and then put it on his lips. ''Would this be considered an indirect kiss?''


    He sighed and laid back on the lounge chair as he stared into the night sky. Tomorrow is going to be a rough day.


    Lena grabbed her pot and rice container and left the penthouse. When she got back to her apartment, she cleaned up her mess before going to take a shower. She still had to listen in to spy on Eva and Andy tonight. Andy told her that he will stay with her tonight to talk a few things to her about the "wedding."


    The next day, Lena met up with James as usual at the shooting range. They would be working on her aim today. Their lesson for tomorrow would be pushed for another time since she would be going to see Gary on Sunday.


    James told her that it takes a while to know how to aim and shoot. And even so, each gun is different and knowing how to adjust to each difference and still be able to aim, that take skills.


    Lena was able to hit the target''s body today but not always hit where she wanted to hit. She continued to practice though. Practice makes perfect.


    James and Lena both stayed later than usual to practice. They also worked more on some of Lena''s self-defense skills. Whenever she had free time, she had been working on her upper body strength.


    When Lena drove home, she was exhausted. Even though she was ready to crash on her bed, she knew that Kris was going to try touching another girl today. She needed to be there to support her friend. Today, James also tag along in case it gets ugly.


    She just finished taking a shower when the doorbell rang. James went to get it while Lena got dressed. James knocked on her door and she opened it. He was carrying a box.


    "What''s this?"


    "Keso brought it here. He said that Kris will be going to an evening event."


    Lena looked at the box and then took it from James. She closed the door and then opened the box to see how amazing Kris'' taste in women''s fashion was. Inside the box, a beautiful twilight gown greeted her. She took out. It was just like the night sky she kept looking out of Kris'' rooftop.


    Good taste. His future girlfriend would be proud of him. She put it on and quickly did her hair and make-up. Keso texted her that Kris already went ahead since it was not good for them to arrive together. However, Kris still wanted Lena to see his progress.


    Lena doesn''t know why he would choose something so out of the scale¡­ she hoped that he would not push himself too much tonight. Tye said that pushing himself could lead to bad relapses.


    Lena put her hair in a fish braid at the back and clipped it with several beautiful pins.


    James drove Lena to the place. It looked like a friend''s party. There were many young men and women here in the area. Lights were everywhere. An invitation card was also inside with the dress. Lena showed her card to the guard and she was let him


    James was also dressed too, but he went through a different way to go meet up with Keso.


    Lena used to attend many of these events, but her life was not about this stuff anymore. If she found no benefit from attending this event, she would not come. There have been a few times she went with Hazel since she could meet top stars.


    Lena grabbed a glass of drink from one of the workers and walked her way toward the inner part of the party. This was definitely an exotic place for her. There were people dancing on poles and women in swimsuit at the pool.


    She finally spotted Kris with a few men she does not know and there were ladies there too. He seemed like he was having a nice time but Lena knew the mask they needed to wear for these types of events. Smile and pretend like you are an amazing person.


    Kris met her eyes and Lena smiled at him. She gave him a wink and walked elsewhere to watch him far afar.


    Before she could sit down, a man approached her.


    "You must be... Lena Shen."


    Lena looked at the man. He was cute. "Yes, that''s correct. Sorry, but I don''t think I know you."


    "Not from here." He stuck his hand for a handshake. Lena took it and they both shook hands. "Your friend calls me Young Master Huang." He laughed.


    Friend... that must be her amazing Hazel. And this must her next target, her "young master Huang."


    "But you can call me Tyler."


    "Nice to meet you."


    "You come here often?" He asked.


    "No."


    He smiled. "Same. I was feeling a bit left out until I spotted you."


    Left out? What a stupid lie and cheesy pickup line.. he was one of the most powerful family in china.. he ain''t getting left out anytime soon. Such a young and cute man, if a woman was not around him then something must be wrong.


    Oh, wait... Lena smiled. Of course, Kris was here so everyone is gathering around him instead. ''Gotta pick up your game Young Master Huang, or all your women will get stolen.''


    "Would you like to dance?"


    Lena wanted to reject him, but the mask.. have to keep that fake mask one. "Absolutely!"


    She took his hand and they walked. As they reach the dance floor, Lena spotted Kris as he successfully shook hands with a few women, greeting them happily. Lena smiled. So he has improved! It was good for him.


    The music was just casual music, not hardcore club music. Tyler put his hand on Lena''s waist and they danced. Thankfully, Tyler did not touch her anywhere inappropriately. She was ready to step on his toes with her high heels if he did.


    The music was not even halfway done when a commotion broke out. Several women screamed and most people on the dance floor stopped. Lena looked toward the noises and she spotted Kris punching a man.


    "Shit." Lena let go of Tyler and moved to Kris but Tyler stopped her.


    "It''s dangerous."


    "It''s fine." She tried to go to Kris but Tyler''s hand was gripping her wrist. She yanked his hand away from her. "Mind your own business."


    She turned away from Tyler and walked passed the crowd as everyone gathered to see the fight. However, when she pushed her way through the front, Kris was gone.


    She texted Keso that Kris was gone. She walked out of the main party area to go search for him. She looked through the hallways until she spotted him. He was down on his knees trying to get some air. Lena rushed to him.


    "Kris!" As she got closer, she noticed that his hands were uncontrollably shaking and he was hyperventilating.


    Lena went down on the floor and put one of her hands over his, and one hand soothing his back. "Just breathe. I''m here."


    Kris grunted and punched the hard floor. Lena noticed that a few people were looking her way. She helped Kris stand up and pulled him to a room. She randomly opened a room.


    "Hey, lady. This room is ---"


    "Get the f*ck out of here before I call ****! Is she even an adult?!"


    The man got off the bed with his woman. They were still half-dressed and Lena kicked them out of the room.


    Lena closed the door and sat Kris down on the bed. She held his hands. "It''s fine, Kris."


    Kris took a deep breath. "Keep talking."


    "??" Lena did not know what to talk about. "I''ll sing."


    She hopped on the bed and went behind Kris. She hugged him from behind, held his shaking hands, and sang him a lullaby. Her singing voice was a one-way ticket to hell but she was okay with singing lullabies.

 Chapter 165 - How to cry

    Lena started singing a lullaby but after a while, she forgot the lyrics so just hummed it instead. She continued to hum until she could feel that Kris'' was not shaking as much.


    She let goes of her hug from him but he suddenly grabbed her hand, not letting her go.


    "Kris... I am just going to call Keso okay? I am not going anywhere." She whispered.


    He let go of her left arm and Lena fumbled to get her cellphone. She had 10 missed calls from Keso and 5 from James. She had her phone on silent when she was in the party. She called Keso and he picked up after the first ring.


    "Did you find him?"


    "Yeah, he''s with me." Lena replied.


    Keso took a deep breath. He lost the sight of Kris when the crowd gathered around. "Where are you guys now?"


    "Um. I took him inside a random room to avoid the attention." Lena tried to recall where they were.


    She could not go out the door and see because Kris was still tightly holding her hand. "I passed the main hallway... so maybe somewhere at the opposite side of the building. The door had potted red flowers outside of it."


    "Ok. We will come right away."


    Lena hung up the phone and tossed it aside on the bed. Kris suddenly released her other hand and stood up. Without looking at Lena, he spoke in a solemn voice. "You can go out."


    Lena was going to refute it, saying that she will stay with him. But maybe Kris just needed to be alone. She stood up and was about to walk out but she saw how frail Kris was. What if he does something bad when she leaves?


    His head was low and he was looking at the ground. She walked up to him. Lena put her hand on his face and lifted it up. She moved her soft hands up to his cheeks.


    "Are you going to cry?" She softly asked.


    "No." He stared into her delicate eyes.


    She knew he was lying. She let go of her hand and wrapped them around his waist. She hugged him gently as she hid her face on his shoulder. "You can cry. I won''t look. And if you want... I can cry with you."


    Kris did not want Lena to see him like this. For a long time, his mother was his only big reason For him to push forward... but recently, just the thought of Lena, he felt like he can achieve anything in the world.


    He tried a memory game when he first shook hands with the ladies. Just like hiding away pain, he can just hide away the thought of the woman''s existence. However, when he slowly glanced up to see Lena dancing with another man, his mind lost focus for a moment.


    When he paid attention back to the woman he was currently shaking hands with, his mind went blank. There was another woman right next to him, shoulders touching each other. Filthy piece of things...


    He felt his eyes turned dark first... a shadow that covered it. Then the shaking began, from the fear and anger from his heart to his hands. In the moment of darkness, he hit the person he first saw. Hopefully, the man only broke a few teeth...


    Kris was very silent. Lena was going to lift up her head to check up on him but he put his hand on her head and kept it down. His other hand gripped her waist.


    He closed his eyes and just held the sweet woman in his arms. He lowered his head and pushed her closer to him so he can take in all her heavenly scent. It was calming.


    "I don''t need to cry."


    Lena blushed... ''Oh god! Why am I thinking about something so dirty when I am consoling a friend...'' Of course... they were inside a bedroom designed for couples. The room was dark, with only small light showing the intimacy of the setting.


    She cleared her throat. "Should I teach you how to cry?"


    Kris was silent again. But after a few minutes, he suddenly picked up Lena.


    "Ah." She yelped from the unexpected movement.


    He picked her up and he sat on the bed as he placed her to sit on his legs. Lena''s was sitting on top of his leg, her knees bent on the sides.


    Her eye widened. ''KRIS... what are you doing??!! This is more of an intimate position...'' Her mind exploded to the moment she previous sat on top of him and kissed him like a hungry animal.


    Her eyes looked at Kris'' clueless expression and then down to his lips. Then her eyes looked down on how she was sitting on him.. and his crotch.


    ''Oh my gosh, oh my gosh. Lena girl, your such a bad girl to be thinking about that right now...'' She closed her eyes.


    She tried to get up but Kris held her legs. He put his forehead on hers and she opened her eyes to look at his.


    "Didn''t you say you were going to teach me how to cry?"


    Lena backed her head away from him. "I can''t cry if you are looking at me like that." She turned her head sideways, looking away from him.


    Kris smiled at her shyness. He dropped his head on her shoulder, resting on it since she turned her head away.


    "I don''t need it. Just let me stay like this for a bit."


    He removed his hands on her legs and wrapped them around her waist.


    ''Is it just me or it''s hot in here?'' Lena was dying...


    "Have you considered a different present?" Lena asked, trying to keep her mind occupied instead of wondering off thinking about very bad things... things she could do him right now.


    Kris closed his eyes, still resting his forehead on Lena''s shoulder. "No... you muted the microphone too fast after she asked if you were a virgin."


    ''HE HEARD IT?!'' Lena''s mouth dropped open and she cleared her throat again. "You don''t HAVE to give her a hug. You can give her something else." She stayed focus on the original topic.


    "Like?" He lifted his head and looked at Lena.


    "Hmm... Like baking a cake? We can bake it together tomorrow."


    Baking with Lena... and a gift for his mom... that''s a win-win. "Ok."


    "And you can buy her something else... "


    "A vacation?" Kris suggested.


    "Yeah, that works. A vacation with the perfect pair of mom and son. Hmmm.. like a cruise ship vacation with lots of seafood."


    "This is for my mom we are speaking about you know, not you..."


    "Yeah, but everyone loves seafood except for Keso." Lena gasped. Yes.. she had forgotten that Keso was looking for them. And they are currently in such a vulnerable position... they cannot be seen like this.


    She quickly got up and patted her dress down. Lena looked back at Kris who was staring at her without blinking. She looked behind her... she felt like he was staring at an exotic thing.


    "So... cake and tickets to a cruise. I can pick up the ingredients tomorrow and we can have an afternoon baking lesson?"


    Kris blinked. "Yeah."


    At that moment, Keso opened the door and James was right behind him. Lena walked out to greet the two men who were huffing and puffing from all the running, searching for them.


    Kris stared at Lena''s back. One step at a time... for now, as long as he can hug her.. it was a victory for him. He could see that hugging his mother was only a reach away.

 Chapter 166 - Test it again

    Keso walked in and saw that Kris was fine. His heart was beating normal again from the relief. He knew that he would have his head chopped off and experimented by Tye if anything happened to Kris.


    "Are you okay?" Keso asked, still taking deep breaths from the long search for Kris.


    Even after Lena tried to explain to them where they were, they still searched for a bit. The cops were already all over the control room looking at the CCTV from the shooting. Some of them were roaming around the hallways too.


    Keso and James had to search for Lena and Kris in quick and act less suspicious.


    "I am fine." Kris stood up from the bed. "You should have come here sooner though."


    That was a lie. Kris would have killed him if Keso came any sooner. Kris walked up to the door.


    "We can''t leave yet... there are lots of cops and reporters out there." Keso explained.


    "What?!" Lena was surprised. Kris only punched one man... which person wanted to die so soon and called the cops on him?


    "There was a drive-by shooting. Did you not hear the shots?"


    ''No. My mind was completely thinking about something else.'' Both Lena''s and Kris'' mind had the same thought...


    "Shooting?" Kris spoke. He walked over the window and saw that there were no cops on their side but all the perimeter was covered with reporters. "Must be someone high profiled who got shot?"


    "Yeah, it was Tyler Huang."


    Kris smirked. ''Yeah. He can die for all I care.''


    Lena was thankful she did not stick around the man too long. She might have lost her life again. Lena walked up to the light switch and turned it on. She was now in a room with three handsome men... the gods were torturing her.


    "I will go see if there is a clear exit." Keso spoke.


    She went back and sat on the bed. She looked at the clock and it was 10 p.m. It was still a bit early for her bedtime... but with this morning''s training at the shooting range and then the emotional anxiety looking for Kris has exhausted her.


    She laid back on the bed. Kris suddenly pulled the blanket from below her and she sat back up.


    "You shouldn''t lie down here... it''s dirty." Kris spoke.


    He was referring to the couple that was here before they walked in. He did not want Lena lying on other people''s dirty business.


    Lena silently agreed and yawned. She stood up and looked out the window too. It was going to be a while before they can go out.


    She took off her high heels and flopped on the sofa. She closed her eyes. Kris could tell that she was tired.


    It was not until 2 hours later when the reporters finally cleared the area. Before that, they had all the exits stalked because they heard that there was also a fight right before the shooting between some top rich men. They had some names and was scoping out for them to exit.


    However, when they heard that Tyler''s rumored girlfriend, Hazel Yang, the famous actress, and model was at the hospital, they had to confirm the rumor. Most of them left the area.


    By that time, Lena was dead asleep on the sofa. Keso went to get Kris'' car and drove it to the back. They decided that Kris'' can just take Lena home since they live in the same building. Keso would send James home.


    James carried Lena to the car and gently placed her in the back seat. He made sure she was seatbelted even though she was asleep.


    Kris drove home and they separated from their bodyguards. Kris drove the car to park in the underground parking lot. He gently placed his hands on Lena to carry her out, making small movements to not wake her up.


    However, she opened her eyes and woke up. She looked at Kris, whose body was hovering over hers when he tried to carry her out. She closed her eyes again. ''Am I still dreaming?''


    Kris poked her forehead and she opened her eyes again. She blinked and looked at her surrounding. She was inside and car and looked like they were in the underground parking lot.


    "Are we home?"


    "Yeah."


    Lena''s face slightly heated up from the not so innocent dream she was had before she woke up. Seeing Kris so close to her face too, it did not help wake her up from her dream. Kris stepped out of the car so Lena could get out of it herself.


    "What time is it?" She asked.


    "Half-past midnight."


    Lena did not expect to fall asleep so fast. She must have been really tired to be able to sleep on the sofa. Sleeping on the sofa was usually a hard thing for her to do.


    Lena grabbed her purse and wrapped it around her shoulder. They both walked into the normal elevator. Kris pressed Lena''s floor and then his.


    As they were in the elevator, Lena glanced up at Kris. She could feel her heart slightly racing. Kris was paying no mind to Lena at all.


    Lena looked back straight and stared at her reflection in the elevator. She kept dreaming about the him lately... and just before, she could not even meet his eyes at all. And now, her heart was beating faster than normal.


    She stole another look at Kris and then recalled the stuff she told Kris. Look at the person, touch your foreheads, think about the person...heart racing.... It could not be?! She needed to test it again.


    "Lena?"


    Lena blinked out of her thinking. She glanced up at Kris.


    "It''s your floor, are you not going to leave?"


    "Hmm?" Lena looked out and the elevator door was already opened. Kris was holding it for her.


    "Unless you were thinking about staying over at my place again." He smiled at her.


    "NO!"


    She walked out a bit but then turned back. As the door closed, she stuck her hand to make it open again.


    "Did you change your mind?"


    Lena held the door open with her arm stretched out and she stared straight into Kris'' eyes. ''Just 10 seconds right?''


    Kris looked at her confusingly. She was staring at him like a delicious prey.


    She counted until 6 and then looked down. "AHHH, you evil person!" She turned around and ran away. She quickly opened her apartment door and shut it.


    Kris was confused at her unusual behavior. He hit the close-door button on the elevator before Lena decided to come back and do something bad to him.


    Lena leaned back on the door and turned on the light. Her face was very red and her heart was having a seizure. She put both hands on her heart to feel how fast it was beating.


    Then, she placed her hands on the sides of her face and screamed at the top of her lungs. After stopping to take a breath, her mind was blank. "I really like him...I really really do!"

 Chapter 167 - Cuteness everywhere

    That night, Lena could not fall asleep at all. Her mind kept wandering all over the place. When she talked to her therapist, Lena told her that she knew what love is. Lena originally thought that her response to Kris was more of a sexual desire rather than love.


    But she realized that she must have liked him before to even considered a sexual fantasy with him. The hard part is not confessing, but making sure your confession would be a success. How in the world, will she make Kris like her?!


    If she needed to teach him how to hug, cry, and cook... then does she need to teach him how to love too?


    Lena screamed into her pillow. ''It''s fine Lena... you spent years chasing your first love, you can chase another man... Just not too long this time.''


    Lena turned sideways and looked out the window. Kris would definitely be a harder man to chase. He has very little experience with women. He has many moments of up and down.


    And if Lena even wanted to chase him, now was not a good time to add more emotional turmoil for him. Both of them have to take care of their revenge. Kris was going through his own demons. His emotional wellbeing was experiencing too much at the moment to deal with a girl chasing him.


    Lena yawned and closed her eyes. It''s alright, she just needed to show him how to love slowly.


    Lena got two more hours of sleep before her alarmed woke her woke. She put an early alarm so she could go to the store to pick up the ingredients. Lena knew that she had to get lots of them because they were sure to make a lot of fail cakes.


    It took her longer than she had estimated to got to the store and get the items. It was 9 a.m by the time she got back to the apartment. She realized then that Kris probably did not have proper baking utensils. She parked her car and called him.


    The phone picked up but there was no immediate response. Lena could hear some slight noises so she knew Kris was there.


    "Good Morning!" Lena spoke.


    Kris opened his eyes. He had just woken up from the call and did not register anything. But a sweet good morning definitely was all he needed to be wide awake. He cleared his throat and spoke softly.


    "Hi." He did not want to sound like he just woke up. Kris did not know why, but he knocked out completely last night. He was usually a light sleeper.


    "..." Lena could tell that his voice sounded grumpy. "Did you just wake up?"


    "No!" Kris raised his voice but it cracked halfway through. "...Yeah..."


    "Be ready in 30. Change of plans. We will meet at my place instead."


    "..." Kris was thinking about how lovely that sound. If they were dating, would he hear that more often? Meeting her at her place.. that brought angels to his heart.


    "Kris? You do remember that we are baking a cake right? And you were going to buy the tickets?"


    "Yeah, I am up. See you in 30."


    Lena hung up the call and got out of the car. She went to grab a cart to put her items in it. The cart was like hotel carts for residents to use so they can easily carry bigger items between the floors.


    After the call ended, Kris quickly got up to ready himself. Although he already took a shower yesterday night, he took another one this morning. He had to smell fresh.


    He brushed his teeth and made sure his hair was top notch. He wore a navy blue fashion collared shirt and a cotton-linen casual pant. Kris picked up his phone and made a call.


    "Hello?"


    "Collin, I need you to buy me two tickets to a 3-day cruise vacation."


    "Are you going on vacation?"


    "With for my mom." Kris replied. "Have it for the following Thursday to Saturday so she would be home to attend the Women''s Fashion show on Sunday."


    "Alright."


    "And... don''t pick something too far from here. She does not like long traveling."


    "Will do."


    Kris hung up the phone. He put on his shoes, grabbed his wallet and phone, and went down to Lena''s apartment. He knocked on her door and she looked at the peephole to see who it was. Her eyes screamed and her heart cried...


    ''Why is he dressed so cute! Too much sweetness in the morning for me!'' Lena was deciding to leave him outside so she doesn''t pounce on the young man once he walked in. She mustered up her courage, slowly locked her heart and threw the key on the ground... just for now.


    She opened the door and put on her usual morning smile. Kris looked at Lena and she was wearing a high waisted denim short with a plain nude t-shirt tucked in it. But, what really caught his eyes was her two low ponytails. She never did her hair like that before.


    He touched his nose and turned around. "Be right back.. I forgot my phone." Her overload of cuteness everywhere was too much for him.


    He speed-walked to the elevator as Lena watched the crazy man leave. ''He''s holding his phone...in his hand...'' Lena was going to tell him but he abruptly left.


    Lena left the door unlocked because she knew he will be back soon once he figured out that he had his cellphone with him all along. She must have woken up too fast and he did not fully wake up. She went back to the kitchen and prepared the ingredients.


    Lena put on a simple pink apron and took out the measuring utensils. She heard a knock on the door.


    "It''s not locked!" She yelled.


    Kris walked in and she was EVEN MORE CUTE than before. How can one have such powers?!


    Lena looked up to him and sarcastically spoke. "So... you found your phone?" She laughed.


    Kris went shy. SHE KNEW! How embarrassing... she knew he was holding his cellphone all along and did not tell him. She was an evil... evil and cute woman.


    Kris rubbed his neck. "Yeah... Didn''t get much sleep." He lied.


    "Oh? I didn''t too." Lena walked up to him and handed his apron to him. He grabbed it. Thankfully it was just something normal, a blue apron.


    "Are you tired? You can go nap and we can do this later... baking can''t be that hard right?" Kris didn''t know she did not sleep well.


    Lena shrugged. "Naw... I am good." How can she sleep after seeing him wearing an apron...


    In her mind, her devil Lena was running to grab the key to her locked heart while the angel Lena was pulling the devil Lena from doing that. Fresh love was so hard...

 Chapter 168 - Cake!

    Kris saw that Lena already had all the ingredients on the table.


    "Ok.. let''s get started." Lena spoke. "It''s not that hard.. just follow the recipe."


    She handed him a cake recipe that was originally Aunt Mary''s. He looked at it. It seems as simple as boiling eggs.


    "So.. we will make it together until you can make one yourself."


    "By myself?" Kris asked.


    "Yeah. Your cake for your mom should be fully made by you."


    "Ok."


    Lena and Kris measured the ingredients together. The first few times, Kris messed up teaspoon and tablespoon measurements. They had to start over with the dry ingredients. She did not allow him to mix them the next time until she double-checked that everything was the correct measurements.


    Lena said that hard work and more love into making a cake makes it more special. Although she has a mixer, she told Kris to mix the batch by hand with a whisk. While he was mixing, she prepared the ingredients for making the frosting.


    The oven was already preheated. Kris poured the cake mix to a cake bin and put it in the oven. Lena set the timer and then they went back to make the frosting.


    Lena cracked an egg opened and showed Kris how to separate the egg yolk from the egg whites. He failed a few times but Lena said that it can be reused for something else.


    After the frosting was made, it was put in the fridge. When the timer set off, they removed the cake from the oven and let it sit to cool off.


    "So... how was your first time making a cake?" Lena asked.


    Kris'' apron was very messy. It had flour and eggs on it. His cheeks had flour and frosting stain because he kept touching his face.


    Lena grabbed a wet towel and handed to Kris. "You have frosting on your face."


    Kris took it and wiped his face. Lena smiled and stole the wet towel from him. "You missed a few spots." She went up near him and wiped away the few spots he missed.


    He cleared his throat. "You look better with your hair like that."


    Lena touched her two ponytails. "Better than it down?"


    "Yeah."


    "Thanks."


    She walked back to her work station and started working on something else. Kris looked at what she was doing but he was sure she was not making a cake.


    "What are you making?" He asked.


    "Scones. So I can bring with me to Gary when I go see him." Lena stopped mixing and looked at Kris. "He like scones and Tye said he was done with his recovery so it''s a celebratory gift."


    "Do you need help?"


    "No." Lena placed her mix down and open the fridge. "But the cake can be frosted now. It''s the most fun part. You get to decorate it any way you want."


    She handed him the frosting. She quickly showed him how to frost it and Kris did the rest himself. Lena went back to mixing the scones. After Kris was done with the frosting, he helped Lena knead the scone''s dough. She tossed it in the oven and they went back to decorating the cake together.


    After the cake was done, Lena sliced it. She dished a piece to Kris and one for her. They both tasted it and it was very good.


    "It''s good!" Lena was happy. "You can do it by yourself after lunch."


    She took out the scones and let them cool. While Kris finished his slice of cake, Lena used the failed eggs and make a stir fry for them.


    "Your cooking is very good." Kris complimented their lunch.


    "Really? Thanks!" Lena was already planning to use her amazing food to bring Kris to her side.


    ''Just you wait, you''ll get to eat it every day!'' She was silently evilly laughing in her heart how she was going to torture him.


    After lunch, Kris baked his own cake while Lena packed the scones in a nice box. She made enough for Gary and to share with the nurses.


    She continued to watch and gave Kris verbal tips as he made the cake all by himself. He was a quick learner. After Kris spent a long time making the cake and decorating it, he was proud of his handiwork.


    However, Lena packed the cake and stole it.


    "This cake is for Gary."


    Kris'' heart tore a bit. His hard work... went to someone else.


    "Cakes are best when fresh, so you can wake up early tomorrow and make a fresh cake for your mom." Lena explained.


    What Lena said was indeed correct. "Thanks." Kris spoke.


    Lena pushed a small bag of scones to Kris. "These are for you. Your celebratory gift for successfully baking a cake."


    Kris took the bag and noticed that there was something special about the ribbon that was tied around the bag.


    "That is a good luck charm. It''s for you too."


    Kris smiled at her. He put it off to the side because he will eat that later when he missed her. He looked back at who Lena was overly excited about her scones.


    "Do you.. like Gary?" He asked.


    "Didn''t you ask me that before?"


    "You''re always happy when you talk about him."


    "Gary is a really good friend. He has gone through a lot too and friends are always there for each other. We support each other through our high and low times in life."


    Lena moved closer to Kris and held his hand. "I told you that I will stay with you until you can hug your mom. And I believe that you can."


    "And after that?" Kris was hoping that she was not only sticking to him to help him.


    "After that?" Lena released his hand and thought about it. "Well, I can''t charge you anymore so I''ll go broke. But, I can just hug your golden thighs right?"


    Kris laughed. "You can hug both of them."


    "Good."


    Kris and Lena both cleaned up the kitchen. Lena already packed her bag for her overnight stay at the safe house. James would be picking her up soon. It was 5 p.m. and it was about a three-hour drive to get there. It would be dark when they arrived.


    Kris stayed with Lena until she left. She locked her doors and turned to look at Kris.


    "Make sure you wake up early enough to make the cake, not like today."


    "Ok."


    "And make sure you have your tickets already."


    "Yes."


    "And you can''t just give them to her like that. You need to make the cake box is pretty and the tickets are in a nice card. Bring some nice flowers too..." Lena was worried. "And.. don''t push yourself too much okay? You don''t have to hug her today. Your first hug with your mom will be special regardless of any day."


    "Yes."


    Kris liked the nagging, Lena. She was leaving him but she still made sure he was perfectly fine before she left. He knew that she had her own things to do, he was not going to force her to stay with him. When she is officially his, he''ll make sure she doesn''t get to see one speck of Gary.

 Chapter 169 - Familiar

    Even when Lena left, she was still texting Kris. The traffic was slow getting out of the city on a weekend.


    Lena: I''ll be home Monday night.


    Kris: Ok


    Lena: OMG


    Lena: don''t forget the candles


    Kris: K


    Lena: Just get the numbered candles


    Kris: K


    Lena: Good luck <3


    Lena stared at the heart she sent and pounded her head on the driving wheel. She looked back at her phone and saw that Kris was typing. But then he stopped. After a few minutes, he finally sent a message.


    Kris: <3


    Traffic was already moving and Lena did not see that. She drove carefully to the safe house. She made sure that she was not followed and Tye was already notified of her arrival.


    When Lena arrived at the mansion, she parked her car and quickly got out. She ran toward the baby-faced man that was waiting outside for her. She gave Gary a long hug.


    "I miss you, noob!"


    "I missed you too, dweeb."


    Lena lets go of the man. "I don''t know what that means."


    He swung her ponytail and smiled. "It''s okay. You got me my scones?"


    "Yep!"


    Lena went back to the car and took out the box of scones. Gary quickly took the box and opened it. He stuffed one into his mouth.


    "It was so hard eating vegetables!!"


    Lena laughed and they both went inside the house. Kris texted Tye that Lena did not have dinner yet so for him to cook something. Tye made sure to make lots of meat dishes for Lena.


    Lena greeted the doctor. It has been a while since she saw any of them. They had a large dinner with the rest of the medical team. They chatted about how stubborn Gary was with his treatment. They had some brownie and Lena''s scone for dessert.


    After that, both Lena did not stay up late... she did not sleep well the previous night. Seeing Gary healthy and alive, she felt better. She went to the same room as she slept in last time. After a good shower, she went to sleep.


    The next morning, Lena woke up early to go exercise with Gary. They ran for 3 miles and came back for breakfast. Gary would usually go for more but Lena was not used to the terrain there. The path was mostly grass or dirt and many slopes.


    When they finished their breakfast, Lena went up to Gary''s room with him. Lena spotted that his room already had several computer screens in it. Gary walked to his desk chair and spun around in it.


    "So... are you going to tell me?" Gary asked when he stopped spinning and faced Lena.


    "Tell you what?"


    "Who''s the man you like?"


    Lena gasped. "How did you know? Am I that obvious?"


    Gary snapped his finger and put his hand like a gun and shot it Lena. "Aha! You just told me."


    "AHH!! You a**hole!"


    Gary laughed. "So who is it?"


    "You don''t get to know until I ask him out."


    "You are not dating yet?"


    "You think I am stupid?" Lena pulled a cushioned chair and sat on it. "It''s not like asking a guy to dance, it''s asking him to be my boyfriend. I should at least increase my chances of a "yes" before I ask him out."


    "My Lena is all grown up."


    "And what about you? You definitely attracted the doctor?"


    Gary sarcastically gasped and covered his chest. "Lena! You know I am straight, how can I love him?"


    "Stupid. I am not talking about Tye, obviously, it the female doctor."


    "Oh.. her?" Gary stopped joking around. "She ain''t my type."


    "You talk differently now." Lena spoke. "Do you know how to speak a different language too? I read in some articles that when people wake up, they can speak another language."


    "Nope... still the same old noob." Gary smiled at Lena.


    "It''s okay. When I get my boyfriend, I''ll rub it all over your face so you find yourself a girlfriend."


    "Yeah... IF you get one."


    "Are you doubting my skills?"


    "Tell me, what''s your plan?"


    "Obviously, I will --"


    --------- Scene cut off for no spoilers -------


    Lena told Gary about what she planned to do. In the end, she got a knock on her head and a laugh from him. Gary snapped his fingers and did the shooting with the gun finger again.


    "I got it! You can just take him to bed and show him your amazing bed skills."


    Lena threw a book at Gary. "GARY! I got no bed skills."


    "What about the stuff Hazel sends to you? It''s all up and down motion. Then, you just have to grab the ba---"


    "AHHH!!! I can''t hear you, I can''t hear you." Lena covered her ears and ran away to leave the room.


    She slammed the door shut. She can''t do that to Kris, it would traumatize him. He does not need forced love.


    Lena started walking back to her room. She tilted her head and copied how Gary snapped his finger and does the gun motion and fling it. Gary never did that before... but somehow, she felt like it was familiar to her. Where has she seen it before? From Hazel? No... maybe Tye?


    She got in her room and texted Kris. It was almost noon so he should have his cake done already.


    Lena: Cake done?


    Kris: Yes


    He sent a picture of the cake, neatly in a box. Lena laughed at the decoration. Kris did a simple white frosting layer and then wrote Happy Birthday in purple on it. However, his handwriting for birthday was too large so "day" was extra tiny compared to the rest.


    Well, at least Madam Li will know that the cake was made by Kris. Kris also sent a nice selfie of himself. It took him a while to take one because he had never done one before. But he recalled how Lena did it once in the speed elevator and copied that.


    Kris: How''s my outfit? Mom will like?


    Lena: *thumbs up*


    Lena also sent a selfie of her frowning.


    Lena: Noobie Gary bullied me :C


    Kris: Go kick the man''s d*ck


    Lena: He has none


    Lena: Tell me how it goes btw. ttyl


    Lena tossed the phone on the bed. She was leaving in the afternoon around 4 and should get back home just when it turned dark.

 Chapter 170 - Gone

    Lena spent a good time after lunch playing games with Gary. Tye told her that Gary was well but he was staying here until it was safe for him to go back.


    Gary told Lena that since he "died", he can''t just reappear like that never happened. There needed to be a well thought out plan for him to come back.


    Lena already moved Noah out of his apartment. She was able to find Gary a new home already with her paying half of it and Gary taking care of the other half. Gary''s things were still in his home and only his fish was moved to Noah''s home.


    It was safer to stop using his apartment because Madam Yang may be monitoring the area.


    Lena drove back to her apartment and reached home around 8. It was raining and she drove slower than normal. She did not bring an umbrella but the parking was underground so she was safe.


    She forgot her car charger for her phone and it was low battery. Right when she got home, she charged it and see if Kris texted her. Waiting for your crush to text you was so nerve wrecking.


    She was about to go take a shower but her phone rang. Her smile lit up and she ran to pick it up.


    "HELLO!"


    "Miss. Shen."


    "Oh, hi Collin. What''s up?"


    "I don''t know if you are home already?" Collin asked.


    "Yeah, I just got home."


    "Madam Li called me, said she has not seen Kris all day and they were supposed to meet around 4 p.m. I had the day off and was with my girlfriend so I did not check on him at all today. His phone is going straight to voicemail. Lay is checking security at the moment, but his tracker is saying that he is home."


    "I understand, I will go see if he''s home."


    "Please do, I am driving there now but if you can go check on him first."


    Lena hung up the call and removed her phone from the charger. She grabbed her bag with her keys and went up to Kris'' penthouse. She walked up to his door and knocked on it. There was no response.


    Kris'' door was not like hers... it was custom made. He used a fingerprint and an eye scanning system. Lena looked at the door lock and wondered if...


    She pressed her thumb on the fingerprint scan and looked into the eye scan. To her surprise, the door unlocked. Lena was a bit creeped out on how Kris had access to her eye scan. But, that was a question for next time.


    The living room lights were off but the kitchen light were still on. She walked into the kitchen and spotted that the cake and card were on the dining table.


    "Kris?"


    She walked to the living room and switch the light on. She first spotted some blood on the carpet and went back to the kitchen. She grabbed a knife out of the drawer and was going to call Collin but he called her first.


    She picked up the call and walked back to the area with the blood.


    "It''s bad. He''s not there." Collin spoke first.


    "Yeah..." Lena looked down at what looked like his tracker. Did he have one implanted in him? "Did he get kidnapped?!!"


    "No. He left the place himself."


    "I am confused."


    "He is probably relapsing again. I am turning around to go look for him."


    "Doesn''t he just... fall down?" Lena had seen Kris relapse once. That was the time he fell down in her hallway.


    "That''s the first thing that happens. But when he wakes up, some part of his brain turns off and his mind only focuses on anger and the intent to kill."


    Lena remembered when Kris choked her. His eyes were completely empty.


    "It must be what happened the other night. He must have pushed himself too much. I''ll call the others and put out the search team." Collin explained. "F*ck... I don''t know though. We never find him anyways until he comes back himself."


    "I''ll go help you find him."


    The call ended so Collin can contact the rest of the people and Kris'' security team. Lena should have not left him. She put the knife back and left the penthouse. She used the speed elevator to go down to the parking lot.


    It didn''t take her even a minute to start the car and speed out of the parking. It was still raining outside but there were not many cars on the streets. Lena drove around the bigger streets.


    ''Ah damn.. where would he go?'' Just then, a thought passed her mind. She once joked to Kris that if he wanted to beat people up, he should go to Shallow district, because that''s the bad part of town. He should find a bad person like a drug dealer and beat his a** up so he would be cripple for a few days.


    ''He wouldn''t go there though right?? His mind was compromised...'' Lena stepped on the gas anyways and drove there. She did not like this place, it was very dangerous. A hot young lady like her would get pick up as a hooker or something worse. Her car was definitely going to attract some people too but she did not care.


    She drove slowly when she reached the district. The rain was still coming very hard. The gods were angry at her for leaving her future boyfriend!


    She saw one man running away, his face was fairly beaten up and his leg was crippling as he ran. Lena sped up a bit to the direction he came from. What a typical scene, a scary dark alleyway...


    She could see Kris'' back from her spot. He had the same clothes as the picture he sent today. Lena grabbed her phone to call Collin but it died. "Ah, dammit.. who cares!" Lena parked her car and locked it.


    She did not have an umbrella but this was not the time to be pretty. She ran into the dark alleyway.


    She spotted two-man down.. or dead she does not know. And Kris was packing some punches to the third.


    She was wearing her slippers but she tossed it and ran to stop Kris barefoot. "KRIS!"


    Of course, he would not hear her. She grabbed his fist as he was going to punch the man on the ground one more time.


    Kris turned around to her and smack her but she ducked and landed one hard punch in his face.


    ''AHHHH!!'' Her fist screamed. It was painful punching people in the face because of the skull. She previously punched Kris using gloves and a real punch was definitely different. Who would have thought that her first perfect full-swing punch was to the man she loved. A great story for her kids...


    Kris grabbed Lena up and tossed her onto the hard cemented ground. He turned back to the breathing man on the ground, opposite of Lena.


    What was she thinking? Going head-on with the devil himself? Kris landed another punch on the man''s nose before Lena ducked under his arm and was standing in front of him. She clasped her hands on his face and pulled him in for a kiss.


    Her much warmer lips covered his deeply frozen mouth in the drizzle of the cold night rain. She lets go of his lips for a second. "Come back to me, please." She spoke softly before going for another kiss.

 Chapter 171 - Woman

    Lena''s lips touched his again. She was barefooted so she tiptoed and tighten her hands on his face, to deeply kiss him. She sucked on his cold lips, warming it up for several minutes before letting go and placing her feet fully back on the wet ground.


    She looked into his eyes to see if she did anything. Kris grabbed her hand and yanked it as he pushed her towards the brick wall. Her back thumps against it. She yelped from the sudden pain in her back and her wrist.


    Kris tilted his head. "Woman?"


    Lena tilted her head with him too. It looked like the kiss did something... but she does not know what.


    Kris released her wrist and put his hands on her face. He quickly bent down and captured her lips. Yeah... it was these warm lips. Kris does not recognize Lena but the warmth was inescapable. He only kissed her for a few seconds before backing away.


    He dropped his hands to his sides. "Woman?"


    "No." Lena wrapped her hands around his neck. "It''s Leee-Naaa." And went in for another kiss.


    Kris liked it. The warmth was back. One of his hand grabbed her thighs and the other to her buttock. He quickly lifted her up against the wall, her legs dangling off the ground.


    "Ah.." Lena stopped kissing him. ''Where is he touching me?!'' She was just wearing a dress, which was now soaking wet. His hands were directly on her soft cold skin.


    Kris looked at the woman who stopped and the warm that was gone. He dropped the hand that was holding her butt and wrapped it around her head. Lena wrapped her legs on his waist to not slip down and held his shoulders.


    "Woman.." He pulled her head towards him and again.. they kissed in the night. The rain had slowed down and was only dribbling. The only light in the alley was a flickering lightbulb that was off more than it was on.


    He put his hand back down on her thigh this time instead of her buttcheek. Once he took a breath, Lena dived in deeper. She stuck her hot craving tongue inside his mouth. He seemed to like it since he moved both of his hands up, cupping her buttcheek and squeezed.


    Lena instantly removed her tongue out of his mouth and yelped once again. "Ah.. no! Bad."


    He did not like it when she stops. He bent his right leg up so he can lower Lena to sit on it. Again, he used his right hand to go pull her face down to his again. He captured her soft lips and did not wait for a big opening to stuck his tongue inside hers.


    He twirled his hungry tongue inside her warm mouth. He felt like he had done this before... His leg was obviously between her crotch and he was devouring her mouth dry. She let out a small moan before pulling his head closer to hers, lessening the gap between them.


    She battled her tongue with his as they play cat and mouse. She dominated this round, covering her small tongue around every corner of his mouth and smacking her full lips on his. The sound of their lips intertwining with each other and the mixes their saliva were louder than the drizzling rain.


    Her mind was as lost as much as his. The only thing they both knew was the warmth and happiness they were feeling at this moment. Seeing that the woman was more aggressive than him, he pulled back from the intense tongue battle.


    "Ah no. Bad." He copied what she said a few minutes ago before he went to nibble her lower lip and bit it.


    "AH!" Lena grabbed hold of his shirt and clenched it from the pain. "Kris!" The wound had just healed and now it was back.


    He smirked at his victory and did not care. He sucked the blood out before dipping inside her mouth again. Lena could taste a hint of blood from his tongue. She backed down and let him take over. He dwelled inside the familiar opening, hitting every spot inside the warmth that he sought.


    He could feel that his body was aroused from the actions that he was doing.


    Without any warning, Kris dropped his leg that was supporting Lena and her body went down too. She quickly unwrapped her legs around Kris and stood on the floor with her legs. This sudden motion broke their kiss.


    Kris swung out his arm a caught the stick from an attack to his right. He immediately pulled the stick out of the man''s grip. He turned around and swung the stick hard on the man''s head. The man dropped on the ground, blood oozing from his head.


    Everything happened so fast that Lena did not have time to fully react. Her mind was still wakening from the epic kiss she just had with him. Kris raised his hand again with the stick, but this time, Lena registered it and grabbed his hand.


    "No." She softly spoke to him.


    He turned back and look at Lena. Lena could still see that he was still completely not himself. His eyes were still dead with a deep aura of blood.


    "No." She shook her head.


    Kris dropped the stick and stood like a lost robot in the alley. Lena grabbed his arm and dragged him back to her car, making sure to take the key that she dropped on the ground.


    When she got there, she noticed her back window was broken and one of the tires was cut. "Assholes! Sc*mbags!"


    Lena looked back at Kris who stared at her like he was going to kill her. "Not you." She released her hold on him and went to the hidden locked compartment to pull out her wallet. Her phone was gone but it was dead anyway.


    They needed to go somewhere for the night and she needed a way to contact Collin them. She grabbed Kris hand again and lead the way. She did not know this place but she kept walking. Lena does not know what time it was.


    She came into a corner store that was opened 24 hours. She wanted to leave Kris outside because he was like a person who would rob this place. However, she did not want him wandering again from her sight.


    They both went in and luckily, the store had some City A souvenir t-shirts and pants. No undergarments... but it was better than nothing. She grabbed a shirt for Kris and her. There was a not pant size for her but she grabbed the smallest ones they had.


    Lena also grabbed some first aid stuff and a few other items. She walked up to checkout.


    "You have any phones?" She asked.


    "No." The man replied.


    "No cellphone on you?"


    The man shook his head and continue to register her items.


    "What''s the nearest motel?"


    "Take a left and it''s three blocks down." The man spoke and gave Lena her total bill.


    She paid in cash and ask if she can get some coins for change. The hotel might have a payphone she could use. Lena thanked the man and dragged her robot future boyfriend down the street.


    They were a block away when Kris pulled her hand to stop her. He grabbed her shivering body in the night and hugged it tightly.


    "Woman. Cold." He bent down to give her a kiss but Lena stopped him.


    "No kissing! We are almost there."


    Kris did not register what she was saying but she shook her head. She dragged them forward until they reach the motel. She walked in the motel, one hand holding Kris and the other with their bags of items.


    "Hi. You have a room?" Lena asked.


    The old fat lady looked at Lena and Kris. To her, Kris was like a bas*ss cop and Lena was some city girl chick. Lena knew what the old fat lady was thinking about... they might be some high-end cop or something scouting the place.


    Lena released her hand from Kris and wrapped it around his waist. She lipped her lips. "My sugahh daddy I just need a place to get it on with... you know? We won''t be loud.."


    She smacked a few bucks on the counter. It was not much since she did not carry much cash. However, it was definitely considered a lot here.


    The old fat lady looked at Lena once more. Her dress was ruffled up and her boobs were too big for some city chick. She turned around, grabbed a key and gave it to Lena.


    "Room 6."


    "Thanks. C''mon baby.." She dragged him out.

 Chapter 172 - Not wearing any bra

    Lena opened the door to their room. Obviously, she did expect any 5-star service nor a cleanroom. They just need to stay here for a bit. Lena dropped the bags on the bed and went to close the door. By the time she turned about, Kris was already shirtless and preparing to remove his pants.


    "AHH NO!" Her sudden voice made Kris stopped.


    Kris was feeling warm. And something heavy down there was itchy. Lena could see that there was a slight bulge from his pants. She blushed. She needed to the adult.


    She went to the bathroom and luckily the water was running fine. "Take a cold shower okay? And your clothes are all right here."


    Lena pulled the half-naked Kris to the shower and turned it on. He repelled the cold water at first but then it was cooling him down. Lena closed the door.


    She saw a payphone outside the motel. She needed to change first. She quickly removed all her clothes and put on the big t-shirt and pants. The pants were loose but she ripped the top and tied a knot on it so it would not drop on her.


    The t-shirt was loose enough so it was not as obvious that she was not wearing any bra. She still heard the shower running so she quickly went out to the payphone.


    She inserted a few coins in but the damn phone was broken. Lena went back to see if the old fat lady was still at the counter but she was not anymore.


    She went back to the room and Kris was already out. His body was cuddling itself on the hard floor. Lena quickly went to check if something happened to him but she realized that he had fallen asleep.


    His hair was still wet. She grabbed a towel and dried his hair as he slept on the ground. That was probably where he felt comfortable sleeping in. His bed was so hard too.


    Lena still has her bracelet with her but only her own team knows about that. Her other tracker does not trigger unless her heart rate was beating too fast or too slow. Lena was not going to risk triggering it. Kris was here and they were alright... sooner or later, they would be found.


    She grabbed the bag with some basic first aid and tend to Kris'' wound. His hand was especially bloody and scratched from all the punching. She cleaned it again even though he showered. She put some ointment on it.


    After Lena was done with that, she grabbed the blanket from the bed and covered Kris with it. She bent down and gave him a kiss on his forehead.


    "Night."


    There was only one blanket but it was fine. Lena sat on the sofa and just stared at the sleeping man. However, as usual, she fell asleep.


    It was only a few minutes after Lena went to sleep that Kris woke up. He blinked as his eyes adjusted to the dark. He jerked his body up. He does not remember anything... where the h*ll is he?


    He stood up quickly and looked at his hands. There were some sticky stuff on it and the clothes he was wearing was crap. He could feel his manhood just dangling in the open space in his pants. He pulled his pants down a bit to confirm that he was not wearing anything under it.


    "F*ck!" He turned around and there saw Lena, in a bundle, legs up on the sofa and asleep.


    Seeing her there, he instantly feel better but part of his heart ached. He walked up to her and pushed back the hair in front of her face.


    "Did I hurt you?" He whispered to her. He closed his eyes and tried to remember... but he can''t. He noticed that the bandage on his arm was where he must have cut out his tracker.


    He grabbed the blanket on the floor and covered Lena with it. It must have been tough on her...


    Kris opened the door and went out. He pounded on the motel doors but it seems like it was completely empty. He walked the streets a bit before he saw a few older men smoking weed under a streetlight. He walked up to them.


    "Got a phone?"


    The man looked up at Kris. "Boy, why don''t you just ---"


    Kris grabbed his arm and twisted it. The man yelled in pain and the other guys backed away. Just from looking at Kris, they knew he was a tough guy.


    "I said, DO YOU HAVE A F*CKEN PHONE."


    "Give the boy a phone you sh**holes!"


    One of the other guys took out his phone and gave it to Kris. Kris grabbed it and released the old man. He dialed Keso.


    "Hello?" Keso picked up.


    "It''s me."


    "KRIS!" Keso put the phone on speaker and Collin was finally able to breathe again. "Where are you?" Collin shouted over the phone.


    "Shallow district, the motel."


    "Be there in 10. What''s the scale?" Collin stepped on the gas.


    "I don''t know. I don''t remember."


    "Again?"


    "You should tell me... how Lena was able to f*cken find me and my team of hundreds can''t even do that."


    Collin cleared his throat. "See you in 5."


    Kris hung up the call and toss the phone back to the guy. "Thanks."


    He ran back to the motel. Lena was still in her same position, legs up and head drooping on the side as she slept. It was such an uncomfortable position.


    Kris walked over, removed the blanket and tried to carry her to the bed instead. In his attempt, Lena''s pants got loose and Kris almost had a heart attack. Like him, she was wearing nothing under too.


    He slid the pants back up. His face was totally flushed... he cannot lie that he did not see it.


    He attempted again and was more careful this time and placed her on the bed. He noticed that she had a larger cut on her lips.


    He touched it with his thumb and caressed it. "Which f**ken bastard did this to you? I''ll kill him when I find out."


    Kris bent down and kissed her forehead before heading out. Collin was here. Kris stepped out with his souvenir t-shirt and baggy shorts.


    Collin stepped out of the car and was shocked at this clothings. "What are you wearing?" Kris glared at him. "You don''t have to answer that..."


    "Where''s Keso?"


    "He''s taking care of the situation. I''ll drive you and Miss. Shen home first."


    Kris walked back inside and carried Lena to the car. Instead of leaving her in the back like last time, he stayed with her. He placed her on his laps and rested her head on his chest.


    When they were almost to the parking lot, Lena suddenly opened her eyes and jerked her head up. She hit Kris'' chin and whimpered, touching her head.


    "Sorry, we''re almost back home," Kris spoke as he helped her rubbed the spot that hit his chin. It hurt but not as much as seeing Lena in pain.


    Lena looked around and spotted Collin. "I fell asleep again!"


    She immediately got off Kris'' lap and rubbed her eyes. Just then, Collin parked the car. Lena opened the door herself and got out. She was going to close the door but Kris exited her way.


    "You should go up with me, clean your wound up for the night." Kris suggested.


    "No... You probably have nothing."


    "I don''t, but Collin does." Kris nudged his head to Collin who just took out a big first aid kit from the back of his trunk. It was the size of a small suitcase.


    "Yes, Miss. Shen should get checked first and treated even if it''s small." Collin smiled.


    With two against one, Lena rode the speed elevator up with them. They entered the penthouse to which the blood on carpet was already cleaned.


    Kris went to get change first while Collin checked Lena out. He just had to make sure Lena had no concussion and her cuts were bandaged, although she did not have a lot.


    "Go get her something to change into, I''ll help her. And get us something to eat." Kris told Collin.


    Collin left them. Kris dragged Lena to his room and sat her on his bed. He cleaned her semi-swollen hand and then put some ointment on it. He realized that the sticky stuff on his hand before was Lena treating his wound.


    He looked up at her. She took care of him but not herself. He dabbed a small ointment on his finger and tapped it on Lena''s lips.


    "Who did this to you?"


    ''YOU DID!'' Lena met his eyes. "You don''t remember?"


    Kris put the medicine down. "No. So tell me, I''ll kill him for you."


    Lena smiled a bit. He was going to kill himself? "You already killed him. You smacked him with a stick." Lena lied. Kris can''t die so might as well blame it on a man who was already dead.


    "Anywhere else?" Kris asked.


    "No."


    "You''re lying. Where else?" Kris sternly spoke.


    Lena cleared her throat. "My back."


    "Turn around."


    "It''s fine, I''ll do it myself." She was not wearing any bra, okay!


    "You can''t reach it. It''s just your back, turn around."


    Lena stood up and turned around. Kris reached up to her back, making sure not to lift the shirt up too much. He applied the ointment.


    "It''s done."


    Lena thanked him. She was going to walk out but Kris grabbed her hand. He pulled her to a tight hug.


    "Thanks... I am sorry if I hurt you." His voice was sad like he was scared that he did something so wrong. Lena was not saying anything so Kris pulled her body more close to his. He closed his eyes, bent down his head, and ruffled it on her head.


    "Don''t hug me too tight, please. I am seriously not wearing any bra right now."


    "NOT WEARING ANY BRA!!" A voice screamed from the doorway.


    Kris instantly let go of Lena and separated their bodies. They both looked at the woman standing there.


    "Mom?"


    "What the hell is going on?!!"

 Chapter 173 - Its just fake

    ------


    Collin thought it would be easier to just go to Lena''s apartment to get her some clothes, but Kris texted him that he needed to buy new ones and buy dinner while he''s at it. It was almost midnight and most stores were closed but he knew a few that were opened 24 hours.


    He called in to order some dinner already before heading into the clothing store. He went straight to the women''s section. There were not many workers at night so he quickly chose something random for Lena.


    But when he reached the lingerie section, he got stumped. He quickly opened his phone and called someone.


    "Cole? It''s almost midnight... what are you calling me for? Did you find Kris?"


    "Hey Baby. Yeah, we found him... I am out on a midnight run, and I ----"


    "Sir, do you need help to pick out some sexy lingerie for your wife?" One of the female attendants approached Collin.


    "No.. no, no, I am good." Collin replied. The female attendant left him.


    "HONEY! Why are you out in the middle of the night buying SEXY lingerie for your WIFE!! When did you have a wife huh?!"


    "No baby you got it all wrong. Kris sent me out to buy clothes for Miss. Shen and I just needed help.. your expertise."


    "Oh, Lena and Kris... why you didn''t say so?"


    *Wuuu...* Collin got interrupted by the female attendant.


    "Video chat me so I can see your options." His girlfriend spoke. Collin turned on the camera and made it so it was not looking at him.


    "Hm.... go a bit forward Cole." He did as he was told. "Lena got some big melons... probably bigger than mine. OH oh! That one, the pink one. Make sure to get a big size and it''s wireless so it''s comfy."


    "Okay." Collin picked it up from the rack and toss it in the shopping basket.


    "Now show me the panties!"


    Collin went to the women''s underwear section and showed her the options.


    "No no... I don''t want the old ladies one." Collin moved around until something caught her eyes through the cameras. "THAT ONE! The laced one!"


    Collin stared at the sexy laced pink panties and scratched his head. "Baby... are you sure?"


    "Yeah, I am sure. You said, Lena. Do you think a hot woman like her would wear anything else? You said I am the expert, I am giving you my expert advice."


    "Okay." Collin picked up the laced panties and dropped it into the bag. He was about to leave when his girlfriend screamed over the phone again.


    "WAIT! Buy me that one!"


    "Which one?"


    "The black one there!!"


    Collin stopped and look at the underwear she was pointing at... it was a black crotchless g-string. "...."


    "C'' mon Cole. I know you want to see my sexy *ss in that."


    Collin reluctantly picked that up and blushed. "Ok..."


    He walked over to the checkout. "K baby, I am done. Thanks. See you Thursday."


    Kris was going on vacation then, so Collin would have a 3-day long vacation too. His night was ruined already with his girlfriend today so Kris better go on that stupid trip.


    Collin hung up the call and then he looked at his phone. His heart stopped beating and his mind exploded! He had forgotten about Madam Li!!!!!


    She called him as he was driving to pick up Kris and he told her that they found him and will be home soon. Madam Li replied with an "I''ll meet you there."


    Collin had forgotten about all of that conversation because he was tending people''s wound and shopping. He tried to call Kris and Lena, but obviously, they don''t have their phone. If Madam Li found them together.... someone''s going to die. He had a feeling it would be him though.


    He quickly paid for the items and rushed back to the penthouse. He saw Madam Li used the speed elevator and it closed right before he could rush in.


    "F*ck!" He had to take the normal one but luckily it was not busy at that time. However, it was way slower than the speed one.


    By the time he arrived, Madam Li was standing on the hallway and screaming.


    "What the hell is going on?!!"


    "Madam Li!" Collin spoke.


    "You!" Madam Li turned around and point at Collin. Then she turned around and point at Kris and Lena. "And you two!"


    "Mom, it''s not what it looks like..."


    "Looks like! Do you know what it looks like? My handsome son is hugging a sexy lady in his room who is not wearing any bra! Hugging... oh my!" She realized then that Kris was hugging a woman. She held her head and felt a headache coming. "Why are you not dead yet?!"


    Kris wanted to rush to his mom and support her but he nudged Collin to do it instead. Collin tossed the bag of undergarment to Kris'' room and supported Madam Li to the living room to sit.


    "Don''t touch me you, idiot man. You! You go kneel at the corner!" Madam Li yelled at Collin.


    Collin made a sad face but did not refuse her. He turned to face the corner of the walls and kneeled.


    "Get dressed. I''ll go talk to her." Kris told Lena.


    "I.. Okay." First thing was for her to get dressed.


    Kris closed the door and Lena went to get change. Kris'' wall was highly noised canceling so Lena could not make out the screaming of Madam Li.


    ''Dear lord... what is going to happen to me...'' Lena opened the bag that Collin tossed at her. He got her a plain white t-shirt and a tan casual sleeping short. The bra was a bit bigger for her size and was a had a small pushup, but it was better than nothing. Lena doesn''t like pushups... However, she should just be wearing it for a few minutes... hopefully, and then she can go home.


    However, it was the underwear that she continued to stare at. What kind of dirty mind does Collin have?!! Lena held up a black crotchless g-string. She looked into the bag to see if there was something else... and no.


    Aiya! Her night was not going to get any better huh? Broken car, maybe stolen now. Stolen phone. Some bruises and cuts all over. And... getting caught braless embracing Kris by his mom... the gods are evil!


    Where was her good blessings? Where did that go?!


    Lena put on the uncomfortable panties anyways... her short would hide it so everything would work out. She opened the door just slightly to see the situation outside. Madam Li was not talking but staring daggers at Kris, who was kneeling on the ground in front of her. Collin was turned away, having a timeout session at his corner.


    Lena closed her eyes and embrace her soul for what was coming next. She stepped out quietly, with her head down and sat on her legs like Kris on the ground. She did not dare look at Madam Li.


    "GOOD! I hope everyone here is fully dressed if not, go get dress now!"


    "..." None of them responded.


    Madam Li cleared her throat. "So..." She lowered the pitch of her voice and was much calmer. "How long have you been seeing each other, huh? Is she pregnant? Her breasts are bigger than last time... How far along is she now??!"


    "..." Everyone was speechless.


    ''Aiya... No Madam Li... it''s just fake!!'' Lena screamed and please... don''t mention her breasts size so openly.

 Chapter 174 - From him to you

    Kris lifted his head and turned to look at Lena. ''Bigger breasts?? When?''


    Lena shifted her body away from both Kris and Madam Li. ''STOP STARING!''


    Kirs looked back at his mother. "That''s not it, Mom."


    "Not it?! Why would an unmarried man and woman be embracing each other so lovingly in the middle of the night? Were you with her? That''s why you have forgotten my birthday?!"


    "I didn''t forget your birthday..." Kris felt a sadness, emerging from his heart. He prepared so much for her today and it all went to waste. He glanced at the clock and it was already past midnight.


    "Madam! Kris had a relapse." Collin shouted from his corner.


    "Who gave you permission to talk?" Madam Li pointed at him and Collin turned around again. She glanced back at her son. Her heart softened... her baby had another experience with the demon. "You had a relapse?" She softly asked, not raising her stern aggressive voice anymore.


    "It''s fine. It was nothing big."


    She knew that Kris was somewhat lying. She stared at Lena. "Was it because of her? She touched you too much did she? And you fell into a relapse?!"


    "I---" Lena was about to defend herself but Kris cut her off.


    "No, don''t blame her." Kris looked and Lena. "I asked her to help me."


    "??" Madam Li was confused.


    Kris took Lena''s hand and held it. "Dr. Tye and I found out that I was not repulsive from her... So I asked her to help with my therapy session. Lena has been a good..." He cleared his throat. "Uh... companionship with my recovery."


    Kris was trying to find the correct word to use for Lena. He did not want to call her a friend or acquaintance, that would make him step backward when he was trying to move forward. Companionship can be a broad word so he used that instead. It could be used between partners, friends, or lovers.


    Madam looked more closely at Kris'' holding her hand. Even after a minute, her son was not having any bad reactions. "No shaking? No trouble breathing? You can interact with her fine?"


    "None of those symptoms and I can interact perfectly normal with her."


    Madam Li was somewhat happy but depressed too. Happy because her son can finally interact normally with a woman but depressed because their relationship was not as she assumed. "Why was she not wearing any... you know.." She tried to respect Lena more now that she was an important part of her son''s recovery.


    "Uh.." Kris does actually does not know! He does not remember!!


    It was finally time for Lena to speak. "I just arrived home from visiting a friend when Collin called me that Kris was gone. Considering how late it was already, I volunteered to help him search for Kris. I found him in a bad part of town. Kris was having a fight with several men and I went to interfere with it. It was raining.


    After I calmed him down, I moved us somewhere where we could be dry while we wait for Collin. With the situation of us, I knew we had to get off the streets in case the men came back. I did not want us to fall sick too so I was able to get us a change of clothes... but.. the place did not exactly have a clothing store so I went with the best next thing."


    Madam Li looked at Lena and could see that her lip was hurt and her hand was swollen. At that point, she was not feeling angry nor confused, but thankful that her son was safe and that no one was hurt. Her eyes watered and Kris moved closer to her. He wanted to console her but he knew that it was not yet possible.


    Madam Li patted her heart and tried not to cry. "How did you calmed him?"


    "Huh?" Lord... Lena... what is your excuse now? You can''t tell Madam Li that you kissed her son breathless!!! "I... I punched him."


    Kris looked at her. She punched him?! Is that why her hands were like that?


    "Just once?" Madam Li was not suspicious but she was curious... so next time she may know how to clam Kris down too.


    "Ah no... a few times. He was focused on the other man so I was just lucky." Lena smiled. "And then I climbed onto his back and pulled his hair."


    Kris touched the back of his hair. He felt no pain at all.


    "And then?" Madam Li asked.


    "He stopped. I think he felt that I wasn''t a major threat. He didn''t recognize me but he followed me so thankfully I took us out of the place." Lena really hoped that all of them would believe her story.


    Madam Li sniffled and patted her heart still. She was right to see that Lena was indeed a special woman.


    "Mom.. don''t cry."


    Madam Li waved her hand. "I am not crying, I am happy! Secretary Collin, you can get out of your corner now."


    Collin doesn''t know if he wants to get out of his corner. Madam Li was as bipolar as Kris... she might start throwing things the next moment.


    Madam Li calmed her emotions and then look at Kris. "Hug her."


    "What?" Lena was confused. Madam Li... you are supposed to be lecturing us... not promoting us.


    "Hug her. I want to see it closer that you both can perfectly interact fine."


    "I don''t thi---" Lena was about to refuse put Kris pulled her hand and gave her a hug.


    "Like this?" Kris asked his mom.


    "YES!" Madam Li was now very cheerful. "Aigoo!"


    Lena was hella confused about the situation but she looked at the happy pair of mother and son. Kris released her and she smiled. She gently stood up and went to hug Madam Li.


    "He can''t hug you... But I can pass it from him to you."


    At the moment Lena hugged her, she happily cried and hugged Lena back. She sniffled and Lena grabbed a napkin that Kris passed to her and handed it Madam Li. Madam Li let go of Lena''s hug and wiped her tears.


    She was still tearful but with a big smile on her face. "You go back and hug him and bring back a kiss."


    "Madam Li, I dont---"


    Again, before she could reject, Kris pulled her off the sofa and hugged her quickly. He gave her a quick peck on the cheek before letting her go. "That''s for mom."


    ''DAMN THESE TWO PAIR OF DEVILS!''

 Chapter 175 - Slowly or fast?

    After Lena was done playing mailman with the pair of mother and son, Collin left to go pick up the food he had forgotten.


    Lena was ready to leave too. She does not think she can stay here any longer. Her swollen hands were not painful but her back was... she needed to be back being braless.


    "It''s late... I will go home now." Lena bowed her head at Madam Li.


    "Home? Your house is such a long distance from here and it''s late already, just stay over." Madam Li spoke. Madam Li does not know that Lena just lives a few floors below, she thought Lena was still living at the Shen Mansion.


    "Ah... but I--" Lena stopped when she saw Kris shaking his head. He was referring to Lena to not tell his mother that she lives in the same building. "Kris only has one guestroom with a bed."


    "That''s fine. Us women can share a room. Stay.. stay for the night."


    "If you insist then..." Lena could not reject Madam Li''s offer.


    "Mom, I made you a cake." Kris showed his mother the cake he made. "Even though it''s passed your birthday, you should still make a wish."


    Madam Li opened the box and smiled at the cake. "We will eat it after we eat food first. You both must be starving."


    It did not take long for Collin to come back with the food. He delivered it and made an excuse to leave.


    After they finished eating the went to the cake. Kris did not buy any candles yet so they just sing happy birthday and Madam Li made a wish.


    "Did you make this?" Madam Li took her slice of cake.


    "Yeah. All by myself but Lena taught me."


    "Is that so.." She took a bite.


    "I was planning to give you a hug this year... but circumstance prevented that."


    "That''s fine. This cake made by you is better than your useless private jet and annoying dog." She took another bite.


    Lena smiled and took a bite of her own slice of cake and immediately spit the cake back out on a napkin. "Is this a sweet cake or a salty one?!"


    "What?" Kris tasted the cake and with the same reaction, spit it back out on a napkin. "Mom, it''s poison!" He grabbed the cake that his mother already half-finished eating it.


    "It just tells me you put your tears into making it." Madam Li joked. She did not really mind eating it though... it was the first thing that her son ever made for her.


    "I''ll make you the correct one next time, don''t eat it." He tossed the whole cake in the trash. He walked back to Madam Li and handed her the card. "Your present."


    "More?" She took the card and opened it.


    "Last time you said we should go on a vacation together."


    "Thanks."


    Lena was tired. She did not even properly take a shower too. Madam Li told Lena to take a shower and she will make the bed for her.


    After Lena finished her shower, Madam Li set a nice bed on the floor for her. Madam Li said they both could sleep on the bed but Lena said that Madam Li can just sleep on it. She felt more comfortable on the floor anyways. The sofa was too much out of her taste too.


    Madam Li held Lena''s hand. "Let me reapply the medicine for you."


    They both sat on the bed while Madam Li help applied some ointment to her swollen hands. It was not as swollen anymore, just read.


    "Anywhere else?"


    Lena smiled... like mother like son... they both asked her the same question. "Just on my back... but..." She was shy. "I am not wearing....(a bra).. it irritates it."


    "That''s good... you wouldn''t want the string to scratch it more. Take off your shirt, it''s only us."


    Lena pulled the back of her shirt up so it was easier for Madam Li to apply the ointment.


    "Does it hurt? It must have hurt...." Madam Li softly asked as she gently put the ointment on her back. It was already very red because she had the bra on earlier.


    "It does... but it''s not the first time."


    "Not the first time?"


    Ah... maybe she should not have said that.. but oh well, Madam Li knows now anyway. "The first time was before I even started helping him. He choked me."


    "Sorry..." Madam Li apologized. "He''s not himself."


    "I know. You know what was interesting though?" Lena put her shirt back on and turned around to face Madam Li. "I don''t think he recognizes anyone when he''s like that... but somewhere deep inside, he''s still aware. He hugged me and called me mom... so I think there must be a time where you embraced him through his fears and protected him."


    Madam Li brought Lena''s hands together and held it. "There was a time where he threw a glass cup at me. Even when my head was bleeding, I rushed my lovely son, who was suffering. Of course, I only made it worse, but I knew then that someday... I would be able to hug him."


    Lena hugged Madam Li.


    "So thank you... for being by his side. He''s not exactly someone anyone can befriend and expect him to be nice back... but I am glad he has his good friends with him and now you." Madam Li squeezed Lena''s hands.


    Lena did not say anything. After Madam Li was calm again, they both went to sleep. Madam Li was able to fall asleep fast but Lena continued to stare into the dark. She was lying on her side so she would not put any pressure on her back.


    She glanced at the clock and it was 3 a.m. She did not have a phone but she used Kris'' laptop to send an email to James and Diane that she would be off for a few days. Lena does not want to go to work with her injuries, even though it was minor. If her parents get the news of this... well, let''s just say they are not as kind as Madam Li.


    Lena slowly got up and left the room. She went to the living room and looked out the window. Even so late at night, the city lights still vastly covered the darkness of the city.


    "Can''t sleep?"


    Lena turned and spotted Kris sitting on the dining table. She guessed he was there before she was here.


    "Yeah.. can''t--" She walked towards him but stubbed her feet on the living room table that Kris moved away toward the window when he kneeled on the ground. In the dark, Lene did not pay attention and hit her soft toe on the wooden leg of the table.


    She silently screamed, knowing that Madam Li was still awake.


    "Are you okay?" Kris rushed to her.


    "Ow ow ow... it hurts.." She spoke quietly.


    -----------


    Madam Li opened her eyes. Her throat was getting dry and she needed a drink of water. She sat up and noticed that Lena was not in the room. She got out of bed and went to the hallway. She walked. Madam Li spotted the small lamp in the living room and walked towards it but then stopped.


    "Ow ow ow... be more gently. It hurts!"


    "Shhh. Are you trying to wake up my mom?"


    "But it hurts." Lena softly replied. "It''s so big..."


    "Just cover your mouth. Close your eyes and it will be done soon."


    Madam Li did not dare take any step forward. ''What are these kids doing?! They said they were not together and they are....already.... doing such things! And when I am in the house too!''


    She was still curious though. She stepped closer to take a peek. She spotted Kris''s back towards her and Lena down lower than Kris. She instantly hid back on the wall.


    "I don''t want to close my eyes. I want to see it."


    "Then stop whining. Do you want me to take it out slowly or fast?" Kris asked.


    "Slowly."


    Madam Li stopped looking and quietly walked back to her room, but could still hear them as she crept away.


    "Ah ah ah ... Noo... I change my mind. Pull it out fast, that is a better way."


    "Stop changing your mind or I am keeping it in."


    "Noo... do it fast. Final answer."


    A few seconds past. "It''s out. Are you okay?"


    Lena laid back on the sofa and took a deep breath. "Yah... much better."


    Madam Li reached her room and closed the door. The rooms were noise-canceling so it was good. She does not want to hear the second round. She happily giggled and locked the bedroom door. Honestly, she doesn''t care if they went all night until morning.

 Chapter 176 - My boyfriend

    Both Kris and Lena did not even sense Madam Li in the hallway. After Kris took out the wooden splinter out of Lena''s toe he stood up.


    "It''s bleeding a bit, let me go get you a bandage."


    Lena looked at the nasty piece of wood that imbedded itself on her toe.


    Lena might be overreacting a bit for some people. But, in Shen Qian''s life, she once tripped over the playground woodchips and had many wooden splinters in her palm, hand, and legs.


    As a child, that experience of her mother helping her pull them out has ingrained her the mental trauma of splinters. She never played on the playground with woodchips anymore.


    She never knew... that she will now be traumatized by wooden furniture too!


    Kris came back and cleaned her wound then put a bandage on it.


    "You need to throw that table away and burn it!" Lena scolded him.


    He laughed. "Sure." He stood up. "It''s late. Go back to sleep."


    Lena stood up from the sofa and walked slowly back to her room. She opened the door but it was locked. She tried again and was sure it was locked.


    "Pssst...It''s locked." Lena told Kris.


    Kris walked over and tried the door. "You lock yourself out?"


    "You think I am that stupid?"


    "But the door is locked. A door can''t lock itself."


    "Shut up."


    "Hold on, let me go get the keys." Kris went to his room and opened his drawer. To his disappointment, it was not there.


    He did not know, but when Collin told the people to come to clean the house, they took the keys to open the rest of the doors in the house and made sure they did not miss anything. They never put it back where they got it from.


    Kris walked back to Lena. "No keys. Just sleep in my room, I can sleep on the sofa."


    "OR I can just go back to my home and sleep there."


    Lena turned around to walk out but Kris grabbed her wrist. "What will I say when my mom asks where you went this morning?"


    "Just say I left to go home?"


    "And if she calls the Shen residence and you''re not home?"


    "Then.. ugh... Fine. But I get the sofa. I am not sleeping in your rough bed." Lena lied back on the sofa. "Go get me a blanket."


    Kris went to the closet and took out a small blanket and pillow for Lena.


    "Goodnight." Lena closed her eyes and forced herself to go to sleep. After a few minutes, she opened her eyes again and Kris was still standing on the hallway. "Go to sleep."


    "Yeah, I will after you go. Just in case you run away."


    "Kris.. it''s like 4 a.m. I need at least my three hours of sleep!" Lena covered her head with the blanket and went to sleep.


    Kris did not care if it was 4 a.m. or 5 or 50 years from now, he''ll watch her just in case she runs away from him. It was not until the sun was starting to rise that Kris head back to his room.


    When it was 8 in the morning, Lena woke up. She went back to the guest room to see if it was open and it was. She slowly opened the door and noticed that Madam Li was not in the room.


    She went inside the bathroom and looked at her back pain. It was not much and the redness was mostly gone. Her hand was not swollen nor red anymore. She put on the bra and walked to Kris room to knock on the door.


    "Kris?"


    He opened the door.


    "Your mom is not here so I am leaving."


    ''Already?"


    "Well... I have to take care of my missing phone and possible missing car too."


    "I can go with you."


    "It''s fine. You go and make sure your mess from yesterday is good. And possible go get yourself check up on too."


    "Will I see you later?"


    "No. I have a meeting with my therapist. See you after your vacation."


    Lena quickly left his house and went back to hers. She immediately removed her bra and nasty g-string and got into something comfortable. Without even caring about anything else, she plopped herself onto her bed and went back to sleep.


    She did not wake up until her doorbell rung a few times. She got off her head and looked at the time. ''SHIT... almost 4 p.m. for her meeting.''


    She went to open the door for James and told him to wait for her. She quickly brushed her teeth and got ready. James already got a new phone for her and he said that he can take care of her car while she was with Stella.


    Lena was still tired when she was sitting in the room with Stella. This time, she chose to sit on the sofa so it would be better for her back.


    "Rough night? Kris was it?" Stella started the conversation.


    "You know?"


    "They always call the gang every time it happens so I would know."


    "Yeah... rough night."


    "You want to talk about it?"


    "Nope." Lena was over that whole entire night.


    *cough 7 chapters if you didn''t realize... we need to move on*


    "Well, anything else you want to share?" Stella asked.


    "I am in love." Lena spoke. "I am in love with Kris."


    Saying it fully for once out loud to someone else but her mind, it felt nice. It had an angelic tone to the word love. It also felt more real, like she did not need to hide it anymore.


    Stello was surprised. "That''s a big development from last week." Just last week she said she was not in love.


    "Yeah. I felt that..." Lena smiled. "I loved him first before I desired him. Is that normal?"


    "It happens. But it could also be the other way around. And some people think that lust is love and love is lust, but that is not always true. Both are completely two different things."


    "I love Kris and I have some lust for him. Two different feelings for him." Lena was sure about her feelings for him. Sure she had dirty thought about him but overall, she loved him more. Lena once told Andy that if you really love a person, your lust can wait.


    "But... I don''t know if he even knows those feelings. I mean does he?"


    "I don''t know. A lot of his life was surrounded by darkness, but most of his recent life, he had been showered with love. So I think he would know what it is. Have you told him yet, about your feelings?"


    "No. Not with everything that just happened." Lena looked down at her hands. "You know that feeling where you don''t want to confess to your friend? Because taking a friendship to a higher step can ruin that strong friendship?"


    Lena looked up at Stella. "It would be a lie if I said that I wasn''t afraid. No one would like to be rejected." She smiled. "But I am optimistic about it. After he''s back from his vacation, I will pursue him. Tease him a bit and then confess."


    Lena''s eyes smiled brightly and she spoke.


    "That reminds me of me and my boyfriend. We were... friends or co-workers I guessed... and we fell in love. Not saying everything will always be successful, but it happens. I understand your feeling of uncertainty. If you confess, and he rejects you, there is an awkwardness in the friendship. If he accepts you but later on, the relationship doesn''t work out, you lose a friend and a boyfriend. And then is the other path of finding real love."


    "If he rejects me, I was planning to threaten him. Is that too harsh?"


    Stelle smiled. "I don''t think you need to worry about that."


    Lena shared more about her weird plans while Stella offered advice. When talking about love, time past by so quickly.


    "Our hour is over, but would you like to go to dinner with me and my boyfriend?" Stella asked. "Oh, and he has a third party pooper friend with him, and if you go, it''ll be less weird for all of us."


    "Your boyfriend?"


    "Yeah. You can finally meet him."


    "Then, I will surely take the offer then." Of course, Lena can never deny free food!


    Lena texted James that she was going out with Stella. He can finish taking care of her car business and take the rest of the day off.


    Lena and Stella walked down the building together until they reached the outside.


    Stella rushed ahead as she spotted her boyfriend. "COLE!" She waved at him.


    Lena''s smiled dropped.... ''Collin?! Don''t tell me the third party pooper friend is...''


    Collin got out of the car and kissed Stella on the cheek. "Ah, Miss. Shen. Guessed you''ll be joining us for dinner then?"


    "Us?"


    "Yeah, Kris is right there. You''ll drive with him." Collin smiled.


    "Ah.." Stella lets go of Collin and walked to Lena to whispered to her. "I once told you, everything you shared is just between us. When I walk out of my office, everything said in that room stays."


    Stella assured Lena that regardless of her relationship with Dr. Tye or Collin, her patient privacy comes first. She winked at Lena and hopped into the car with Collin.


    Kris got out of his car and smirked at Lena. "Guess I am seeing you later..."

 Chapter 177 - Have fun

    Lena looked at Kris and faked a smile. She opened the passenger door and got in. She put on her seatbelt as Kris sat down.


    "Are you mad?" Kris asked.


    "No."


    "You can''t be mad. I didn''t know Stella was bringing you along."


    "Did you know that Stella was my therapist?"


    "No...Yes...?" Kris did not know exactly.


    "So is it a no or a yes?"


    "I did not know exactly. But out of all the doctors that Tye could recommend, it would be her. So I guess, I could have known... but not 100% sure."


    "I am not mad. How can I be mad with free food?"


    Kris chuckled. Gary was right, Lena gets bribed to easily with food. He drove the car and they chased after the two love birds.


    When they got to the restaurant, weirdly enough, Kris and Lena got there first even though the other two drove off way before them. They took their seats and a few minutes afterward, Collin and Stella arrived.


    They all ordered their food and chatted about upcoming events.


    "So... how did you two meet?" Lena asked them.


    Stella cleared her throat. "Well... it''s a complicated and simple story actually."


    There was an awkward silence before Kris spoke. "Stella was the first woman that we had my physical therapy session with. Tye suggested someone that I was more familiar with so maybe it would lessen the reaction. She was one of my therapists then so I was fairly familiar with her."


    Kris stopped and Stella continued. "It didn''t go well. I could have lost my life, but I didn''t. I spent a few months in recovery." She held Collin''s hand and sweetly looked at him.


    "Collin and I were not in a relationship then. But he came and visit me almost every day. He brought me flowers, food, watched movies with me and made sure my recovery went well. And the day I was discharged, he finally got the balls to ask me out. And here we are, better than ever. I am so happy that you are successfully helping Kris."


    "That''s such a sweet story!" Lena cheered. "I didn''t know Collin was so successful!"


    "Successful?" Stella pinched Collin''s cheeks. "He can''t even ask me to marry him yet." She laughed.


    "Why is that?"


    "His bunch of weirdo friends made a bet or manhood promise, whatever you want to call it, that Collin can''t get engage until one of them gets a girlfriend."


    "Doesn''t Lay have one every week?" Lena questioned.


    "Those are not love, those are lusts," Stella explained, referring to what they talked about before. She stared at Lena. "So maybe the gods will hear my prayers and make one of those single men get a woman or man."


    Stella was hinting that Lena should confess to Kris quick so Stella can get engage. Lena smiled. Their food came and they ate cheerfully together. They talked about the funny things they did when they were young. Obviously, Stella and Lena did most of the talking since the men did not have much of a funny childhood.


    After dinner, Kris drove Lena home. Before Lena got out of the elevator, she told Kris that she has a new number.


    "I won''t see you until you come back from your vacation so have fun!" Lena waved goodnight to the man and went inside her apartment.


    She would not be seeing Kris for a few days but that will give her the time to deal with the situation with Eva and Andy.


    The next day, Lena went to work. James picked her up. Her lip still had a small cut but she did not care. Work is work. She looked at the finished blueprint designs of the collection SHYNE would be releasing in partnership with LUX in a few months. She approved them and signed them off for their production.


    She had a few morning meetings and only go a break when lunch arrived. Her afternoon consisted of calling several people and looking over some projects that just ended or will be completed soon.


    As she was leaving work, Andy called her.


    "Hello." Lena answered.


    "I can''t pretend anymore with her." Andy spoke.


    Lena would not be able to pretend to love such a disgusting woman for so long too if she was him. "Will Eva be attending the Women''s Fashion show on Sunday?"


    "She is."


    "We can go with your plan that night then."


    "What I told you to do before?"


    "Yeah. Fight fire with fire. You wanted the real truth and you thought of the plan. I can only help you with it so much." Lena replied.


    "Let''s do that then."


    "Fake a business trip for a while."


    "I already used that excuse."


    "Well, go for a personal trip then. Tell her that you need a few days to travel far across the ocean and to bring back the perfect romantic wedding gift for her. A gift that comes deep from your heart and your long yearning search for love that you finally found in her." Lena dramatically gave him an excuse. "She''s too much of a romantic, she''ll take the bait."


    Andy chuckled. "Will do then."


    Lena left the office with James and he drove her home. Before getting out, she gave James some orders.


    "Don''t worry about getting a new car for me. Get the stuff ready that we need for Eva." She got out of the car. "And make sure Noah is ready on that day too. He has not been in the field for a while now."


    Lena went up to the apartment. Kris changed his number too so Lena texted Keso and Collin about her plans. Before going to bed, she got a text from Kris.


    Kris: Goodnight


    Lena: ^-^ Have fun on your trip tomorrow.


    Kris: It''s going to be boring


    Lena: I''ll text you a lot


    Kris: *thumbs up*


    Lena: Don''t get a tan and gn


    Lena was planning to spam Kris with text all day so he would always think about her. Isn''t that a great thing? Although she did not want to ruin the mother and son trip too much too.


    Lena went to her room, showered, and got ready to go to sleep. After drying her hair, she picked up a dart and threw it at the target. The dart hit the target in the center. Lena had gotten one after she saw one at the safe house mansion. She had practiced her throwing skills and has now perfected it.


    Lena was going to have fun her own way for the next few days. She smiled at her perfect hit. "You better watch out, I am coming for ya, Eva Wu."

 Chapter 178 - Womens Fashion Show

    In a blink of an eye, it was already Sunday. For the past three days, Kris and Lena were able to text an ample of messages. Kris had shared many of his pictures. Lena could probably say that he has mastered using the camera on his phone and taking selfies.


    Lena thought that she woke up quite early but it seems that Kris woke up earlier. He already sent her a good morning message. However, she ignored it. Today was the women''s fashion show. Lena was attending the event with Madam Li.


    In the past, Lena would not like to be open about her relationship with other rich and powerful families, but since Eva and Madam Yang''s time was coming to an end, she was able to let her guard down just a tad bit.


    She was lazy throughout the day until it was time to get ready. She had a face mask on yesterday, so her face was extra shiny and smooth today.


    Lena put on some light make-up. She wore a light pink, A-line high-necked dress that went down to the floor. She wore a set of customed ruby jewelry. Her hair was curled with a simple fish braid on both sides and clipped on the back. The outfit was paired up with a silver pink handbag and an ankle-laced high heel.


    She put on a more ruby red lipstick to match the rubies and her look was done for the day. Lena made sure she had her invitation.


    Kris arranged the ride, so thankfully it was scheduled to pick up Lena first and then his mom. If it was the other way around, Lena would have to make an excuse to be at the Shen mansion.


    When the car arrived, Lena hopped to the back. There were a driver and one security for Madam Li. Today was a big day so Lena did not have James with her. He was with Noah, executing the plan for the evening.


    They went to pick up Madam Li at the Li mansion then detoured to the Fashion Show. It was not always to be the earliest people to arrive nor the latest. If you wanted the good shots and excitement from the reporters, you need to arrive just in time.


    A big shot like Madam Li was a woman who needed to always be in the prime of the news. Even for her older age, her skin and beauty were flawless.


    When they arrived, Lena stepped out of the car first. Even with just her, the flashes of pictures were overrated. She has been in the news lately because of her successful partnership of LUX. LUX released their first traditional Chinese inspired jewelry launch and it was a big success.


    Lena waited outside the door for Madam Li to exit out. Many of the new reporters were shocked to see Madam Li with such a young lady. Because of the rumors around Kris disliking woman, Madam Li was often not seen around any of the young rich ladies.


    Madam Li did not stop for any pictures but was sure to smile and walk slow enough that she knew the reporters got a few good shots of her and Lena.


    Lena''s ticket was especially from Ming Zhao, so he got really good seats. Madam Li was such an influential and well-known lady that she was for sure reserved in a good seat too. Even though they were not seated together, Madam Li was able to ask for them to sit together without any questions.


    "Madam Li!"


    "Madam Zhao."


    Both of the Madam greeted each other. Madam Zhao was the main designer for the fashion show. She was originally a European fashion designer, but since she married Zhao Lin, she moved her business and fame here.


    Over the years, her most successful and highly anticipated fashion show was the Women''s Fashion Show. People from all over the world would attend it.


    "Lena." Madam Zhao spotted Lena. "Are you here with... Madam Li?"


    "Yes. Some last-minute plans." Lena replied.


    "Ah... I see. Ming Zhao just told me this morning that the VIP ticket I gave him was for you. If I had known earlier, I would have let you two come together."


    "It''s alright." Lena smiled


    "Yes, it is alright. Lena will be with me and my son today." Madam Li interrupted.


    "Kris Li is attending the event too? That is surprised, the place is so full of a young woman." Madam Zhao expressed. Lena was also surprised. She was sure Kris would not be attending the event today. That was not part of the plan.


    "Of course he is attending the event with me and Lena." Madam Li went close to Lena and grabbed her arm.


    Lena fell like these two mothers were fighting to see who sons were better in general.... or better for her?


    "It is alright indeed." Madam Zhao turned to Lena and hold her other arm. "Lena dear, why not come to my house tonight to celebrate the fashion show afterward?"


    "I--" Lena wanted to say "I have to go slay a baby dragon today." but even if she couldn''t, Madam Li spoke first.


    "Lena is already eating at my house tonight with my son." Madam Li tugged Lena a bit to her side.


    "That is alright, Lena can come to STAY at my house the next day, even SLEEPOVER if she wants to. Don''t you worry dear, I''ll call and invite your parents for dinner that day after this." Madam Zhao tugged Lena to her side.


    "I.. uh.." Lena was not a rope for this tug of war. SHE HAS DRAGONS TO SLAY! For the first time, free food was not on her priority list.


    "Ming Zhao!" Lena yelled for Ming when she saw him walking down the corridor. Luckily he heard her delicate voice and walked over. He grinned when he saw her between two Madams...


    "Greeting Madam Li. Hello, mom." Ming greeted them. "If you don''t mind, I have some business with Lena."


    "That''s right, that''s right, you both go. Just come back before the show aye?" Madam Zhao spoke and let go of Lena.


    Madam Li did not want to let go, but her son was not here so she lost this round. Madam Zhao victoriously smiled as Ming took Lena away.


    "I hope Madam Li and her son enjoy the rest of the show." Madam Zhao spoke and left.


    Madam Li composed herself. She raised a hand and waved for her bodyguard behind her to come closer. "Call Kris to come here this instant! If he does not come here, he will get married tomorrow!"


    "Yes, Madam."


    Madam Li walked to her seat and calmed herself down. The guard called Kris and Kris was utterly confused. In the past, Madam Li''s of a threat would work with Kris but, of course, he would not come this time, he would love to get married tomorrow... to Lena of course. But he knew something must have happened.


    The call ended and the bodyguard reported to Madam Li that Kris will be here shortly.


    ----


    "Collin, turn around the car. Head to the Women''s Fashion Show."


    "What about Gary?"


    "Keso is with him, everything should be fine on their end. But, something must have happened at the fashion show."


    "I''ll step on it." Collin stepped on the gas and turned around, heading back to City A.


    Kris texted Gary and Keso the change of plans. He wondered what happened that his mother used her old threats again. He texted Lena just in case. There has been no reply from her since this morning. He looked at his empty good morning text.

 Chapter 179 - Pick up a fight

    Ming dragged Lena to a less crowded area. He smiled and looked at her.


    "You owe me." He said.


    "Owe you? It''s all your fault!" Lena rubbed her arms that both of them were tugging at.


    "My fault? I didn''t do anything."


    "Yeah... it''s because you are unmarried."


    "Then it''s your fault too. You are not married also." Ming smirked at Lena. "I am surprised you came with Madam Li today."


    "Why?"


    "Just that... you have been fairly close to the Li family lately. Didn''t you say that you did not want to catch too many attention?"


    "That was before."


    Ming grabbed Lena''s hand.


    "Where are you taking me?" Lena questioned.


    "To the event area obviously. It''s starting in half an hour. We should be there already."


    He held her hand and they both entered the event room. Many people were already seated and talking around. The guests were excited about what was going to be new this year.


    Lena spotted Eva with a few of the young rich ladies. Most likely, they were going to be her bridesmaid at her western wedding.


    Ming released Lena''s hand and grabbed a drink for her. She took and quickly sipped it. It has been a while since she drank.


    "Since you don''t mind the attention anymore, we can have our date right?"


    "Date?" Lena did not have time to have a date with Ming.


    "You were the one who suggested it. Or, are you going back on your words with both families and letting them do it the old ways?" Ming taunted her.


    Definitely not the old way. "Fine. Friday night works for you?"


    "Sure. I''ll come to pick you up." Ming tapped Lena''s glass and drink his wine. "So... are you going to sit with Madam Li or me?"


    "She''s not sitting with you." A rough voice spoke.


    Lena turned around and spotted her black prince charming.


    Kris arrived and quickly walked past the annoying paparazzi. When he entered the main event room, he spotted his mom. He was walking towards her when his sight located Lena. And not only that, she was with Ming Zhao.


    He immediately changed direction. No wonder his mother called an emergency, this was indeed an emergency.


    Kris grabbed Lena''s arm and tugged her towards him.


    "Mr. Li! Did not know you were coming." Ming stuck his hand out to shake Kris''.


    Kris smirked and avoided the handshake, to which Ming just let it go.


    Kris looked down at Lena. "Lena, you came here with my mother, are you not suppose to be with her right now?"


    "I apologize. I got sidetracked. I will go to her now." Lena turned away from the men and went to sit by Madam Li. Madam Li noticed Lena walking her way and her eyes lightened up when she saw her son here too.


    Kris walked closer to Ming and exerted his dominance in the atmosphere. "What are you doing? You should know better to stick to your own side of things." Kris sternly spoke.


    Ming walked up closer to Kris, only leaving a small gap between them. Their height was nearly the same and their assertiveness was competitive. "Is that so? Says the man who is obviously hiding many things from her."


    Ming stepped back and relax his body. "But I am not here to pick up a fight with you today. I am simply here to support my mother. Hope Mr. Li won''t take this... personal."


    Ming left and Kris turned back to where his mom and Lena was sitting. Kris sat silently down next to his mom and soon, the light went dark and the fashion show started.


    Lena was mainly here just because she had a free VIP ticket and because Eva was here today. She was not much interested in the dresses. They were obviously a bit too high on her price scale anyways.


    "Lena..." Madam Li spoke softly to her. "If you see something you like, just tell me, I''ll buy it for you."


    "It is alright Madam Li, thank you though."


    "Don''t be. Take the gift. I have not offered you anything for helping Kris. If you don''t know what to pick, I''ll choose for you."


    "Then... If Madam Li says so, I will not reject the gift."


    Lena and Madam Li continued to have a small chat, talking about the beauty of fashion. They also talked about how beautiful Madam Zhao always made some traditional Chinese clothing. When the fashion show ended, Madam Zhao came out and give a speech, thanking everyone who attended the event.


    As usual, there is a small after-party as people who chose to buy some items get their information and purchased completed.


    When Madam Li was chatting with a few older woman, Kris tapped on Lena''s shoulder.


    "I have to go first. Plan still the same." He whispered to her ears then turned around and left.


    Lena came with Madam Li but their plans required Lena to leave differently. Lena had to make an excuse. She glanced at the clock and realized that it was time for her to leave. She walked up to Madam Li.


    "Madam Li."


    "Lena."


    Lena went to close to Madam Li''s ear and softly spoke so only she could hear. "I have my.. lady thing... so I am leaving first. I already called a taxi for me."


    Madam Li also whispered back to Lena. "I see." As a woman, Madam Li understood Lena''s urgency.


    "Do.. you still want me over for dinner?"


    "Dinner?" Madam Li did not know what Lena was talking about then she remembered that during her fight with Madam Zhao, she did say that Lena would be eating dinner at her house today. "Ah yes. Make sure you come."


    "I will." After making her excuse, Lena walked out of the event area.


    Lena made sure no one was following her. She exited out the side entrance, where James and Noah were already there waiting for her. She opened the back door and hopped in.


    "Everything good?"


    "Yes. She''s in the trunk." Noah replied.


    "Good. And Andy?"


    "He confirmed to be at the location already."


    "Good. Kris and Gary should be there too. Let''s go."


    Noah stepped on the gas and the car drove out. He did not try to drive too fast just to make sure they would not get pulled over by a cop. It took them 30 minutes before they reached the location. It was a large abandoned real estate on the bad side of town.


    Lena put on a long black coat and stepped out of the car when they arrived. She walked to the back and opened the trunk. Eva was knocked out and tied.


    Lena bent down and removed Eva''s hair from her face so she could clearly see it. "How does it feel to be on the other side of things? As I remember, you were the one who put my first kidnapping hit on me."


    Eva was still unconscious but Lena did not feel any pity for Eva. She once did, but the girl had done so many stupid and horrible things that she does not deserve any pity.


    Standing in the dark night, even if Lena dressed like a princess today, one would not know about the bad things she was going to do.


    "Carry her out. The real show has just started."

 Chapter 180 - This gun is faulty

    Noah carried Eva inside the building and she was tied up to a chair. Lena looked at Eva and then walked away. Andy walked to them and sat on the chair across from Eva.


    "Are you ready? She is still not awake yet, you can still turn back." Lena asked.


    "I am. Are you?"


    "Oh boy. I have been waiting for this for a long time." Lena smiled. "No matter what you hear, don''t break the act."


    "Are you trying to scare me now, Lena?"


    "I just don''t want you to chicken half-way out."


    "I won''t."


    "Then, let''s get you ready, right?" Lena snapped her fingers and Noah started tying up Andy but not too rough.


    Andy goes himself comfortable on the chai. "So who''s going to ----" Before he could finish, Lena already landed a big punch on his face. "F*ck!"


    "Oh." Lena shook her hand. "Thought that it wouldn''t hurt that much if you didn''t know it was coming. Your face is not red enough, let''s do it again."


    "Are you kidding me?!"


    "Nope"


    Lena slapped his face this time, above the area she punched him before. His face was definitely redder now and Lena smiled at her nice handiwork. She learned that if she punched more faces, her hand would get used to the pain.


    She grabbed the water hose from Noah and sprayed it at Andy. The water cause a slight pain to his wounded face but Andy toughed it up.


    "You need some blood."


    "A what now?" Andy''s did not think he had to sacrifice his handsome face today.


    "Don''t worry, I got some fake blood today for you. I am still nice." Lena grabbed out a bottle of fake cosmetic blood and dabbed them on Andy''s face to make it look like he got beat up badly.


    She tossed the bottle to Noah who put in away. They made sure the scene was good and then, they were ready to wake up the baby dragon.


    Andy put his head down like he was exhausted. "Let''s do it." He spoke.


    Lena sprayed the water hose at Eva until she started waking up. She panicked first and then screamed but her mouth was tied up. Eva spotted Andy first but he was unconscious. Then she turned her head.


    She stopped her panicking when she saw Lena standing by the side. She screamed her name in anger but Lena could not make out her words.


    Lena casually took off her black overcoat and handed it to James. Then she smiled and walked up to Eva and pulled her hair up. Lena looked down at the pathetic woman and shook her head.


    "Tsk tsk tsk... the wife finally decided to wake up." Lena released her hold on Eva''s hair and put her hand over her mouth instead. "Oh wait... you''re not married yet so you''re just still just the stupid fiance." She giggled.


    Eva screamed, but her voice was muffled through the cloth that was tried around her mouth.


    "Do you want to speak? You can scream all you want and no one would hear you. " Lena stood in front of Eva and gave her a hard slap on the face. And then, another one of the opposite side. Lena bent low so her face was the same height as Eva''s.


    "I would know... because that was what you told them to do to me right? Grab me after the opening ceremony. And what? Have them defile me so I would turn crazy? Lose myself?"


    Lena stood up again and nudge her head at James so he would untie the cloth around Eva''s mouth. She was already crying and having trouble breathing.


    "Please..." She sniffled.


    "Stop crying. I can''t understand a single sh*t you are saying!" Lena shouted.


    Eva took a few breaths to stop crying. "Please don''t hurt Andy. It''s not his fault. It was me, just me so please don''t hurt him." She shook her head wildly.


    "You expect me to believe that you, a poor pauper was able to put a global hit in the underground for me. You just suddenly won the lottery overnight and what... walk into a bar and be like ''Anyone who does this gets this much money?''"


    Lena told Andy that he would be hearing many truths coming out of Eva''s mouth. She warned him not to react until they were able to get everything out of Eva. Andy was shocked that Eva had something to do with Lena''s first kidnapping. It was kept hush-hush but he the news did spread to him.


    "No..." Eva was still shaking her head.


    "Then obviously Andy gave you the money. Who else did you know that was that rich?"


    "Ming Zhao. It was him."


    Lena gave Eva another big slap. "You think I am stupid? He gave you the money to kill me and then what... save me? What would he gain from that?"


    "It really was him. I don''t know why he would save you though. Maybe because you''re a Shen."


    "Mhm.." Lena picked up a revolver from the table. "Yeah.. keep talking, I will just sit here and load my this thing up okay?"


    Eva stared at Lena as she slowly put the bullets into the gun.


    "You said... Ming Zhao right? Maybe he will come to save you this time." Lena pointed the gun at Eva.


    "You''re bluffing. You don''t know how to shoot that."


    "Bluffing? If that makes you feel better then. If I remember correctly, you never experience being shot before right? Well... it hurts like sh*it." Lena was adjusted her position and was still pointing the gun at Eva." Last chance, who gave you the money."


    Lena wants her to give up Madam Yang''s name.


    Eva shook her head. "I won''t---" Lena took the shot and it hit the side of the top of the chair. "Madam Yang... Madan Yang! It was her!"


    Andy still had his head down when he both heard the shot and his mother''s name. ''My mom is involved?''


    "James... I think this gun is faulty. I aimed for her leg it hit the chair instead."


    "Miss. Shen, if you want to shoot her leg, I can shoot it for you the next time. I''ll be sure not to miss it." James responded.


    "No no no! No next time. You wanted the name and I gave it to you." Eva cried.


    "I didn''t hear the name. Who was it again?"


    "Madam Yang."


    "Which Madam Yang? So many Yangs."


    "Andy''s mother. She said that I needed to get rid of you or you''ll just keep coming back. She gave me the money and she gave me directions on how to put the hit on you." She took a deep breath. "Please, you''re alive and I did not do it again so just let us go. You can let Andy go now since he''s not involved."


    "Uh uh." Lena shook her head. "No can do. You still have not told me about the second time?"


    ''What second time?"


    Lena took all but let one barrel with the bullet in it. She spun the revolving chamber and close it. "I remember it now, don''t you? When you, me and Gary were in that dark room. You said for the men to take you to Madam Yang. They took you out of the room and shot the both of us. But what I can''t understand is why she wanted Gary dead."


    "The man with the scar told you though. He said... he said that Gary was Andy''s half brother."


    ''What is going on here, Lena?'' Andy was screaming in his head. ''When did having Eva tell the truth about her behavior turned into Gary being my half-brother.''


    He still kept motionless as he tried to process the information Eva was spouting. If Gary was his half-brother, then his mother cheated on this father.


    Lena shook her head. "Still doesn''t make any sense. Gary is poor, never cared nor stole anything from the Yang family. Killing him was a waste of time and resource. So... what was the real reason. I know you know, Eva."


    "I don''t. I just know after I left she let me go as long as I stay with Andy."


    Lena burst into a laugh. "Eva. I don''t think you understand the situation here. Let me clarify it to you again." Lena pointed the gun to Andy''s head. "I am holding a revolver. It has 6 chambers and all of them but one is empty. So... Andy has a 1/6 chance of getting shot in the head, which most likely he would die."


    "No please I really don''t know.. AHHHH"


    Lena shot at Andy''s head but it was an empty chamber. "1 out of 5 now"


    Without waiting for Eva to reply, Lena took another shot at Andy''s head. "1 out of 4. James, this gun is really in perfect condition right?"

 Chapter 181 - Heartbroken

    "Don''t shoot. No more lying. Ask me anything you want to know." Eva confessed.


    "Gary."


    "I don''t know the story. But she wanted him dead because Mr. Yang found out. They had an argument I overheard that''s why she wanted me gone too."


    "And what was the argument about?"


    "It was weird. Mr. Yang was not even angry that Madam Yang had an affair, he was like to bring Gary to the Yang family. Madam Yang did not want that though, she refused to let her bastard son share the Yang fortune with Andy. So she planned to kill Gary along with me, and poison Mr. Yang to get rid of everyone."


    "And that is why he is sick now?"


    "Yeah. Madam Yang said he was supposed to die but he didn''t. And I don''t know... now she is saving him saying he can''t die and I need to sleep with Andy and give him a baby."


    Of course, Eva knew nothing about the heir situation. She was just a pawn in the bigger scheme of Madam Yang''s hunger for power.


    "Please... I told you everything. It''s not me, it''s Madam Yang."


    Lena put her gun down and walked over to Eva. "Do you even still love Andy? Or are you blaming your love for him for all your actions? You are no different than Madam Yang. Thinking that you''re protecting Andy but in the end, you never loved him but only the power that comes with it. Do you feel powerful now? Being the future Madam Yang? Guess not huh..."


    Andy knew that his mother was always over her head but how can she skill her own kid and her own husband? If Andy was useless too because he was stubborn about marrying Eva before, would she had killed him too?


    Lena walked back to grab the revolver. "Let''s leave your fate to chance." She pointed the gun Eva and shot.


    Eva closed her eyes and then opened it after she felt no pain.


    Lena pointed the gun at Andy and took another shot. And again, the gun went back to Eva and another shot was made. "I guess you''re the lucky one, mei-mei." Lena walked to Eva and pulled her hair again so that Eva was looking straight at Lena.


    "Shoot yourself, and save Andy. Or you can shoot him, and you can be free." Lena released Eva''s hair. Lena tied a trigger to Eva''s leg.


    "What''s that?"


    "A trigger. You see the red lights around this place?" Noah turned the trigger lines on and Eva saw them all around them. "The place is rigged all over. You see, this building is scheduled for demolition, thanks to your beautiful Madam Yang. Once we leave, the trigger lines will be on. It will only be turned off once yours or Andy''s heart stopped beating. If you also leave, you''ll trigger them too."


    "Why do you want me to kill him? Don''t you love him too?" Eva yelled.


    "No. You see, I need him dead." Lena moved close Eva and whispered to her ear just so Eva could hear her. "Gary''s alive. I am going to marry him and become the future Madam Yang."


    "You''re lying!" Eva panicked. ''How can Gary be alive? They had his funeral and all. Madam Yang even confirmed the dead body.''


    Lena stood up and put the gun on the table. "Whatever you say. I have not lied at all today."


    Lena, Noah, and James all started to leave. "Oh.. and I forgot, you only have until the 3 minutes to choose. I''ll start the clock for you."


    The red trigger lasers turned on and the clock started. Noah pulled the rope that was connected to Eva''s hand and it loosened them. Eva did not take her even one second to get up, grabbed the gun, and pointed it at Andy.


    "I''m sorry Andy... but I have to live." Eva started panicking as she looked at the timer. "I am pregnant... I can still live a good life if I use my baby against the father. I will live for you and me."


    Eva pulled the trigger and it shot Andy right in the chest. Andy''s chair fell back and he thumped onto the hard cemented floor. Eva quickly dropped the gun and turned around to leave, without sparing a look at Andy''s dead body on the ground.


    Lena was already out of the building when she heard the first shot. She walked towards the group of men standing outside. She waved at them.


    "You think she killed him or herself?" Gary asked Lena.


    "She''s broken and greedy. Of course him."


    "I think she might really do all of that evil stuff for love... not greed"


    "Naw... greed 100%"


    A second gunshot was heard and Lena smirked at Gary. "Told you." She said to Gary. "Good luck."


    Gary smiled at Lena. Lena hopped into the car where Noah and James were already inside.


    Lena got in but then opened it again. "Oh and Kris... your mom asked me to come for dinner but honestly, I got no appetite after what happened today. Make some excuse for me please."


    "Did you get my text today?" He asked her.


    "No. I''ll read it later," Lena replied and then closed the door.


    Kris watched as the door closed. ''Lena did not read my text at all today?''


    ------


    Andy had his eyes closed after Lena left. Andy was the one who told Lena to do this and he was the one who planned it like this. Somewhere deep in his heart, he still hoped that Eva really did love him. Love makes you do stupid things...


    However, when she shot him right in the chest, he really had his heartbroken. The gun was loaded with fakes bullets. Lena switched it out when she pulled Eva''s face to only look at Lena. Even if it was fake, his pain was real.


    Eva was not really pregnant but Andy tampered with her private visit at the doctor. The results that the doctor gave her was that she was pregnant. Her first reaction was not even an abortion or telling Andy the truth, but she planned another day to drug Andy instead so she could sleep with him.


    When he fell back and Eva turned around to run. Andy took out his gun that was hidden and shot at her. Of course, Andy purposely missed but the shot made Eva turned back and stared at Andy. She instantly fell onto the ground and started to cry, begging for forgiveness.


    Andy pulled the gun up to Eva''s face. "Truth be told, I would have not hesitated to take my life to save yours. I am glad that I got pulled out from your lies though."


    Andy was still hesitant to shoot. He had always only kill to save his life or protect others. But, for the first time, he felt that he was protecting his life... from her.


    However, before he could shoot, someone took the shot first. It was not a gunshot but a taser gun. Eva shook for a few seconds and become unconscious on the floor.


    "Sorry, you took too long. And she was not yours to kill, someone else called dibs on her first." Gary walked toward Andy. "Hello, brother."

 Chapter 182 - Stolen away

    Andy looked at Gary. He lowered his gun and blink, to make sure he was not staring at a ghost. "You''re alive?"


    "Surprise!" Gary sarcastically replied. "Shot three times by my own mother and still alive after that. Fate must really not want me to die." Gary walked close to Andy. "We need to talk... about our mother."


    "What about Eva?"


    "Gary turned around and look at the woman on the floor. "Like I said, someone else called dibs on her. They''ll be here soon to pick up the body. Let''s go."


    Gary went first, leading Andy to a different area of the building. They took the worker''s elevator to go up to the top floor. This was not a very big building.


    "Why up here?" Andy asked.


    "So you can see. The world has changed after you opened your eyes again."


    They were both on the rooftop. Gary turned around and look at Andy. "Our mother will have to pay for the crimes she committed."


    Andy was still holding the gun with him. "You''re going to kill her?"


    Gary smiled. "I wish... but I know very well that I can''t kill my own mother, even with all the horrible things she had done to me. She''s not even a mother. And you... you won''t be able to kill her too."


    "..."


    "Tomorrow, there will be an arrest warrant for Mayor Bai. He will be tried for corruption, stealing from the government and an accomplice for murder. You should know fairly well that your mother has a strong connection with the Bai family. The evidence will point to Madam Yang as the person who snitched on Mayor Bai."


    "Why are you telling me all of this?"


    "Lena wanted to save you, so do her one last favor and stay out of it and live your life normally. I am doing you a free favor, removing that crazy mother of yours. Remember, she tried to kill your father and turned your lover against you."


    "You will be the one killing her?"


    "No. She''s not worth my bullet, just like Eva was not worthy of yours. Mayor Bai has an influential family, he''ll probably get out of the charges and just pay some fine. But... he won''t let Madam Yang go free. Madam Yang knows everything and he will silence her. Why get my hands dirty when you can have others do it for you?"


    Gary turned around and went to the railings. He looked out to the worn-out area. "And besides, I am not the only person who wants her dead. Madam Yang has wrong the Li family and they will watch this whole battle until her life is dead. A life for a life, that is how it''s done up here. Isn''t that right Andy? You''re not so clean too."


    Andy has already accepted the fate of his mother a long time ago. He knew that her past will catch up to her. And considering all the information he had learned today, it was time to let his mother go.


    "And what about you?" Andy walked up to Gary and looked out too.


    "Me?" Gary glanced at Andy then back out to the open space. "I would love to stay out of your family after this is all done, however, the Yang family is the quickest way for me to build up my own life."


    Andy laughed. "So you crave for the Yang family power too?"


    "I am your brother, that means as long as I am alive, your position as the next heir is stable."


    Andy turned to Gary. Lena must have told Gary about that. Throughout today''s situation, he had not even considered about Gary being his brother and securing his position as the next Yang heir.


    Gary continued. "Even if I was born out of an affair, as long as your father accepts me, the elders would too. Considering your father is no different from your mother, he would choose a stable heir. And likewise, I am no threat to the Yang family. My power is not matched for yours. Your family can take me out whenever I go rogue."


    "There must be something you want from this though. You wouldn''t be putting up with my family just to be helping me."


    "Like I said... I need to build my own life. You will sell this land to me. The Agato Land is already trash but the Yangs still have this piece of land. I don''t even need to be accepted into the Yang family. As long as I am alive, you have your security. Your father is well again, and I am sure you will get your own child in a few years. By then, I will have made enough for me and it''s a win-win for both of us."


    "After I shot Eva, she said that Lena will marry you and both of you will take over the Yang family?"


    "And you believe her?" Gary looked at Andy then chuckled. "You now why the Shen family never rise above to your level even though they monopolize many rich commodities? Because their family is not a build-up of crap like the rest of you all. You think to be up there so high, it is a nice lifestyle that everyone craves? It is only stupid people like Eva that crave such a horrible life.


    Lena is a smart woman yet she chose to take over the small company branch SHYNE instead of fighting for her position as the next CEO for the Shen business. She could easily start her own business and compete with the world... yet she stays where she wants to be. Where she is happy and contented with her life. She would not want to marry me nor touch your dirty Yang family."


    Gary turned around and walked back down, taking the stairs instead. "I warned you, Andy. If you interfere, the Li family will not hesitate to kill anyone stepping onto their plans. Even Lena cannot save you from their wrath."


    Gary started walking down as And continue to stay up on the rooftop, thinking about what his life was going to be from now on.


    Gary walked down and Eva''s body was already gone. Kris was waiting for him in his car.


    "What are you going to do with her?" Gary asked him


    "You don''t need to know. Your mind would not be the same if you knew."


    "And what about Lena? Any progress?"


    Kris stared at the man who sat down on the passenger seat. He started the car. "She''s been ignoring me."


    Gary burst into a laugh. "No dating yet and already ignored. Not good signs bro."


    "Maybe she just needed a break. After all, things are still going to get ugly for the next few days."


    Gary rested his head on the seat and Kris drove. "Yeah... Lena and I both.. we need a rest." He opened his eyes again and looked at Kris. "But... I heard she has a date on Friday. If you don''t her soon, she''s going to get stolen away."


    Kris dropped Gary off at his new place. Then, he drove back to the Li mansion. He had already called his mother earlier than Lena was not feeling well so she would not be there for dinner.


    Kris texted Lena a goodnight message but she did not reply. She must be asleep already.


    ''She has a date on Friday....'' Kris recalled that Hugh reported back to him that Lena has no fiance. They were some news and gossips but Hugh was for sure that Lena was not engaged. Kris hoped that she stayed that way if the man was not him. He would not mind getting his hand dirty again for her.


    Kris'' phone rang and it was Keso calling him.


    "What is it?" Kris answered before walking inside the mansion.


    "What do you want me to do with her?"


    "Everything."


    "Everything??"


    "Don''t kill her too quickly, and yes, I want everything."


    Keso cleared his throat. He does not know if the weak body of Eva can withstand the torture of everything. "As you wish."

 Chapter 183 - Beginning of an End

    Lena took a shower and knocked out after she got home. She did not even bother to eat dinner, and that was unlikely of her. However, she was just not feeling the appetite to eat.


    She woked up to another good morning text from Kris but did not reply. Lena has been ignoring him for a full 24 hours now... he should be missing her right? Lena talked nonstop with him for his trip and then ignored him so he would feel something. People say you don''t know what you have until it''s gone.


    Today, it was the beginning of an end for Madam Yang. Lena did not get out of her bed and instead turned on the morning news. As planned, Mayor Bai was arrested early in the morning. The news continues to replay the car chase the police did to catch Mayor Bai and the police dragging him to the station in handcuffs.


    "Mayor Bai, is it true that you are going to get charge for attempted murder?"


    "Mayor Bai, is it true that you have been stealing from the people? What do you have to say about that?"


    "Are you cheating on your wife, sir!?"


    "Will this affect your brother who is going to run for president?"


    "Will the people get compensated for your scams?!"


    The reporters also scoped out the house of the other Bai family, wanting a statement from them. Bai Wei came out with a public announcement that the Bai family has nothing to do with the criminal charges of Bai Wentao. And as a real politician, he believes in the justice system and his brother should be punished with for his crimes.


    "For the security of the public, I am also allowing the government to fully investigate me and my team for any corruptions within my office. I can guarantee to the people, that I am not brother." Bi Wei spoke. He asked the reporters to respect his family since his children were still young.


    Lena turned off the television and went to get ready for the day. She still had to go to work as normal and then she was going to go check up a Gary at his new place.


    She went to work later than usual and both Noah and James are with her today. Because everything was going on about and get exposed, it was good to have extra security with Lena until it was all over.


    No one told Lena what happened with Eva after she left.


    She knew that Gary was hiding something from her but she was not much concerned about it. Everyone has their own secrets. As long as those are things that will no damage a relationship or is made to protect someone.


    Lena knew that when the time comes, she will know about it.


    There are some things you should just not dig too deep in about. Lena knowing so much about Madam Yang already made her life far riskier than she had expected. After this was all over, it was time for her to settle down, not battle more wars.


    By the afternoon, Mayor Bai was out on bail until his trial the next day. Rumors leaked out that an influential person will be testifying against Mayor Bai for his attempted murder charges.


    After working hours, Lena and her bodyguards drove to Gary''s new place. They helped him clean and set up his furniture. Gary''s new place was near the land that he had asked from Andy. Lena asked him what he wanted that for but he just smiled and say "You''ll see."


    Kris has been spamming Lena with texts today but she had not once replied back to him. It was after working hours so Kris was in his private underground work area.


    Collin looked at Kris, who was more focused on his phone rather than Keso''s report on Eva. Keso said that he already has the excuse made for Eva is missing. Andy will cancel the engagement soon and Eva would leave the country due to cancellation.


    Keso looked at Collin after he finished his report. "Um.. Kris?"


    "Yes, yes. Very good." Kris still looking at his phone.


    "Hugh requesting a visit." Keso asked. Hugh was the one friend that Kris saw the least. Because of their special relationship, it must be that way. They were not supposed to see each other unless of emergencies.


    "Yes." Kris replied... even without registering the statement.


    Keso glanced at Collin a shrugged. "Miss. Shen is here!" Keso lied.


    Kris looked up and turned his head a few times to look out before knowing that he was lied too. He threw a pen at Keso and went back to give Lena a text.


    Kris: Do you like Gary''s new place?


    Kris texted Gary and he said that Lena already left but why is she still not texting him!! He has not seen her much lately... he''s getting withdrawels from missing her....


    "Oh... Miss. Shen texted me." Collin spoke and looked at his phone.


    "If you two keep lying, I will break your hands."


    "She is really texting me though."


    Collin''s phone dings again and Kris stood up and snatched Collin''s phone.


    Lena: Did you eat yet, Secretary Collin?"


    Lena: Where are you?


    Kris glared at Collin. "Why is she texting you, you already have a girlfriend!!"


    Collin lowered his head. He does not know! Women always do the most unexpected things! Kris texted back to Lena on Collin''s phone.


    Collin: Have not eaten yet. At company


    Lena: Ok ^-^


    Lena: I come see you


    Kris smiled at the text, forgetting that Lena was replying to Collin, not really Kris. He threw the phone back at Collin and told him to go pick up Lena.


    When Lena arrived, James and Noah were carrying large bags. Lena popped her head into Kris'' office. Then she walked in.


    Lena was wearing a light pink, bow-knit dress and she had her hair down with some small curls. Her front bangs were clipped back with a white bow.


    "Hello." She smiled at Kris and waved her small hands.


    Kris cleared his throat at then looked back at his desk. He picked up a random file and looked at it, pretending like he was very busy before Lena came.


    "I am very busy, what are you here for?"


    "I know, that''s why I brought you all dinner." Noah and James put down the bags of food. "I bought them for everyone. I can''t stay long but I just wanted to feed you all since everyone is working hard while I am just running around doing nothing."


    "Thank, Miss. Shen, for thinking about us." Collin replied.


    Lena walked to Kris and place a smaller bag on his desk. She went up cutely next to him and whispered to him, putting her hand up by her mouth. "I picked these personally just for you. Make sure you eat, okay?" She walked back to the door, smiled at everyone and then left.


    Kris'' heart was beating really fast. Gosh, had he turned dumb and lovestruck after not seeing her for a while? He took out his "personally" chosen dish of food out of the bag and opened the container. It had lots of meat and he happily dived in.


    He told Collin and Keso to pass out the other food for the rest of the team. Kris hoped that she would bring him food every day. Maybe, that will be what he requests from her when they start dating.

 Chapter 184 - Garys Dad

    Madam Yang went into hiding when she heard the news about Mayor Bai. However, Kris and his men were watching her every move and they still had the mole within her group, so it was easy to track them. The anonymously sent the location to Mayor Bai and it did not take his team to go and get rid of Madam Yang.


    Kris'' team left the scout when they tipped of Mayor Bai''s team. However, before they arrived to get rid of Madam Yang someone else was already there to take care of them all. All the bodies were blasted with multiple shots like the building was raided.


    Mayor Bai told his team to search for Madam Yang''s body and confirm that she was dead. They counted all the bodies but there was no sign of Madam Yang. Mayor Bai was angry.


    Kris had assumed that Madam Yang was dead. However, it was not until early the next day that Keso contacted Kris. Their double agent mole that Kris had placed with Madam Yang was able to escape the raid of the unknown people. He was only able to get to a safe house and then called Keso.


    Kris has been staying at the Li mansion. He got up and quickly head out. He made sure to text Lena a good morning before speeding out of the driveway.


    When Kris arrived at the safe house, the mole had one bullet wound.


    "Tell me what happened."


    The mole was getting treated for his wound. "I went to hide as soon as you reported the location to Mayor Bai." He grunted as the doctor stitched him up. "It was only a few minutes before they showed up, or so I thought. But they just started shooting everyone and everything in the building. Even though I was hiding, I got shot once. The bullet just pierced through the walls like it was not even there."


    "Do you know who was it?" Kris demanded.


    "No... But they took Madam Yang away before they started the massacre." The doctor finished the stitches and moved out so both of them can talk more. "I only heard the man said, ''Where is my son.''"


    Kris patted the man on the back and left. He took out his secured phone and made a call. The other person quickly picked up the call.


    "Your dad took Madam Yang." Kris spoke.


    "What?! Last time I checked he was not even near China."


    "Well, it seems your father is smarter than you, Gary"


    "Tsk... I am the best in my field."


    "Well then, find them. Especially her." Kris ended the call and turned to Keso. "Make sure the witness comes to court today. Mayor Bai thought that it was Madam Yang, but hell, he sure does not know the truth too well."


    Keso nodded.


    Gary was up all night doing research and he had just slept for a bit until Kris called him. He was not expecting to see his dad so soon, but he guessed, he needed to go see him now.


    Gary woke up and made himself a strong cup of coffee before searching the location of his dad. He figured out that his dad already entered the City the morning after Mayor Bai was arrested. He entered through the triads.


    It took Gary a few hours to find the location of his father. Gary has been hiding his death perfectly well and Kris did the best job faking it too. There was no way someone would know that he was still alive unless there was a leak in Kris'' team.


    But considering what Kris told him, his father probably wanted information on Gary from Madam Yang.


    Gary opened his closet to decide what he should wear to meet his father for the first time. Lena stocked his closet with fancy suits and the latest trends. In the end, Gary just put on a hoodie and some black pants.


    He locked his house. Gary walked to his ride, put on his helmet, and drove off in his motorcycle.


    Gary drove to City C, which was one of the towns nearby City A. It was a two-hour ride there but he pressed the gas and sped all the way there.


    When he arrived, he just parked his motorcycle on the side of the road and looked at the empty bar. It was too early for the bar to open but he tried the door anyway. Gary knocked on the door and waited to see if anyone would open it for him.


    He looked through the windows and the bar was completely empty. He checked his phone and confirmed that they were still here. He walked to the back. Gary took out a pin and started to pick the door. Just as he opened it, he heard a clicking sound and then a gun to his head.


    "This is not a place for you to rob, boy."


    Gary raised both of his hands and dropped the pin. He slowly got up from the ground and turned around. There were three men pointing the gun to him.


    "Chillax gentlemen, I am here for family business. I am here to see my father, Chen Xu."


    The man pointing the gun at Gary burst into a laugh and looked at the other guys. "AHAHAHA! This boy says he''s the boss'' son. The best excuse I have heard anyone use to see the boss, ahahahahaha!"


    "But, Piggy." Piggy was the guys''s nickname. "Uh.. didn''t boss come here to look for his son?"


    Piggy stopped laughing and looked at Gary. "Oi, boy, what''s your name."


    "Gary... ah... but my birth name is Chen Gan." Gary still had both of his hands in the air.


    "You and Snake, take the boy inside. I''ll go get the boss."


    The other two men dragged Gary inside the bar and sat him on a stool. Piggy went downstairs. He knocked on the door.


    "Didn''t I tell you not to bother me?!!"


    "Uh.. Boss! There''s a man upstairs and he said he''s your son."


    Chen Xu instantly opened the door. "My son?"


    "Uh.. yeah. Damn... what was his name again?" Piggy scratched his head. "Um.. Gory? Gum?"


    "Gan."


    "Yeah... Chen Gan." Piggy smiled.


    Chen Xu closed the door behind him and walked up the stairs. He spotted Gary drinking a glass of alcohol. Gary turned when he heard the steps of people coming up the stairs.


    Gary placed his glass of alcohol down that Snake offered to him. He got off his stool and walked toward the old man. "Hello." He stuck out his hand for a handshake.


    Chen Xu took his son''s hand and shook it. "You''re supposed to be dead."


    Gary smiled. "Is that what the witch told you?"


    Chen Xu smirked. "She did. But I knew better than to trust her."


    "Where is she?"


    "Dead."


    Gary was surprised. He did not expect Chen Xu to kill Madam Yang so quickly already.


    "You want to see her? I was going to send her head to the little Li boy afterward." Chen Xu spoke but turned around to lead Gary to the basement.


    Chen Xu opened a door and Gary saw Madam Yang handing on a rope with a gunshot wound to her head. He looked away and Chen Xu closed the door.


    "You killed her?" Gary asked.


    "Obviously. I kept her alive for too long anyways these past years."


    "Very well then, my job here is done. Make sure you do send the head to Kris Li." Gary walked up to the stairs.


    "You''re not going to stay to chat with your father?"


    Gary stopped, turned around, and looked at the man still at the bottom of the steps. "You''re not my father."


    Gary went up, gulped down his alcohol and head out. He texted Kris the results and put on his helmet and drove off.


    After Gary left, Chen Xu went back to his office. He sat down on his chair and poured himself a drink.


    "I told you your son was alive." A woman''s voice spoke.


    Chen Xu looked up at the beautiful woman. "That''s good."


    "We should have ended this sooner. We brought the kids into our troubles."


    "Well, you killed her.... so that''s done and over with." He took a sip of his drink. "We''re so old now... to think that now your son and my Gan are as grown-up as we were when we first met. Isn''t that right Wang Bai?"


    The woman walked up to the man and put her gun on the table. "Chen Xu, let me remind you for the last time, my last name is Li... I married Li Jun, not you."


    Li Bai left her gun on the table and walked out of the room.

 Chapter 185 - Order you some dinner

    Mayor Bai''s trial was private. It was not until later that evening that the public got his sentence. He was charged with multiple offenses, but due to his influence, he paid a hefty amount to not be jailed and instead do community work. He was removed from office and someone else took over for him until re-election.


    Lena procrastinated at work, watching the broadcast. And then, she left early to go home. She finally started texting Kris again after the 24-hour break. Lena planned to deliver him dinner for a few more days... and then go on a 72 hours strike and then ask him out on Sunday. By then, he would miss her so much he has to say yes, right?


    Lena squealed as she brought her grocery bags into her house. She started cooking the dinner since she will be making on for Collin too. Lena has to make it for someone else too so it does not look so weird that she was just bringing Kris food. It would be too obvious.


    This time, she did not give Collin nor Kris a heads up. Last time Collin picked her up, he told her that her security scan was already in place so she could come anything she wanted to.


    Lena packed just two boxes, one for Kris and one for Collin. As she walked out, she smiled. Her revenge was done and now she''s blossoming her love life, her life has brightened up.


    She hummed as she walked to her new car. She missed her red rose car but she went with dark silver this time. It would stand out less than her previous one.


    When she arrived at the Li company, Lena made sure her hair was perfect and her face did not have any weird marks on it. She grabbed her bags of food and left the car.


    When she arrived down to the base area, she greeted several of the outside workers then walked up to Kris'' office. She knocked twice then poked her head in. "Hello!"


    Kris popped his head out too to look at Lena. Collin was sitting in front of him, blocking his view of Lena''s face. Collin turned around too.


    "Lena, you didn''t tell me you were coming." Kris spoke.


    "I brought you dinner."


    "Oh.." Kris replied. He already ate dinner so he was not hungry.


    "CEO Li already had dinner already. But I have not." Collin spoke, blowing up Kris'' cover.


    "Oh..." Lena looked at her two hard work packed food for Kris. "I personally cooked them today though."


    At the moment Kris registered her say "personally cooked them," he slapped Collin in the back of the head. "Don''t worry about Collin. He doesn''t know that I am still hungry. It''s a good thing you are here." Kris smiled at Lena, who smiled back.


    Lena walked over and placed the food out on Kris'' table. "I know you like lots of meat like me but I added more vegetables today. You need to be healthy."


    Kris opened his container of food and smiled. "Thanks."


    Lena clapped her hands together. "Can I bring you dinner tomorrow too? Same time."


    Again? Well, obviously Kris was jumping up and down in his mind. "Yeah."


    Lena was not going to stay again. She started to walk out but then turned around. "By the way, who was the woman who testified against Mr. Bai?"


    "His wife."


    "His WIFE! Wow, such betrayal." Lena waved goodbye to them and closed the door.


    She hummed her way back out, thinking about what she was going to cook tomorrow. She needed to feed Kris healthy stuff so he would plump and good to go for her.


    Collin was about to take a bite of his food before Kris stole it away from him.


    "You don''t get to eat this." Kris asserted.


    "What?! Yesterday you shared though.."


    "Yesterday, she bought them. Today, she cooked them. It''s different. You can go have your dinner break."


    Although Kris was very full from having his dinner just awhile ago, his stomach could always go for more of Lena.


    Again the next day and at the same time, Lena came over to Kris'' office and brought him dinner. This time, she made dinner for only him. She made his a good variety of meat dishes and a few side dishes of vegetables. She also brought over warm soup and a homemade sweet tea drink.


    As usual, she did not stay over and left after she brought them.


    The next day, Lena went to work as normal. It was the start of her 72 hours strike on Kris. She already purchased the perfect outfit to ask the man out and the perfect excuse to lure him. Lena had waited for her entire past original life, whatever the correct term is now, waiting for a man to ask her out, so she was not going to do that again.


    They live in a modern growing society where women ask men out and propose to them, so Lena was confident enough.


    Lena walked into her office and saw a vase of red and pink roses on her desk. "Diane, why are there flowers in my office?"


    "They are from me."


    Lena turned around and spotted a handsome man on her doorway. He was cunningly hiding there so she would no see him when she walked in.


    "Ming Zhao."


    "Hello! Do you like them?"


    "They are pretty, but what are you going here?"


    "I think two weeks is long enough to start pursuing you now. Did the flowers make you fall in love with me yet?"


    Lena shook her head. "No... not even 1%."


    Ming walked closer to her. "Well, I will still send you flowers every day." He smiled.


    "I don''t think that is how it works."


    "Ah... but we are still on for our date tomorrow, right? I''ll turn that not even 1% to 50% tomorrow. See you then, my fiance." He winked at her and left.


    Lena stared at the vase of roses. If Ming brings her flower every day, it won''t work on her... but isn''t she kind of doing the same thing with Kris.... bringing him food every day. Would that not work on him?


    Lena was doubting her plans a bit but then shrugged. No one should be able to deny her food. Her food is not her singing.


    That night, Lena left work at her normal time and went home.


    On the hand, Kris had not eaten all day, expecting another great dinner from Lena. He waited and waited.


    "Do you want me to order you some dinner?" Collin asked.


    Kris shook his head and looked at the clock. It was just 7 p.m. "Maybe she''s just late today."


    A few hours past and Lena did not show up. Collin knocked on the door again. "Do you want me to order you dinner now? She never said yesterday she was coming today again."


    Kris threw his entire cup of pens at the door and Collin left. Collin did not know if he was angry because he was hungry or because Lena did not bring him any food today. Collin decided to not tell him about the roses that got delivered to Lena today... he still wants to live.


    Kris texted Lena but she did not reply back.


    "ARGH!" He slammed his head on his desk a few times. "Why are women so strange!"


    His phone got a ding and he quickly looked at it. But it was just Collin sending a text.


    Collin: Do you want me to order your dinner yet?


    He slammed his head back on his desk.

 Chapter 186 - Her date today

    It was late in the afternoon when Lena woke up. She stayed a bit late last night, revising her romantic evening with Kris on Sunday.


    Today, she already took off her day for work since she had her dinner date with Ming later in the evening. It has only been a little over 24 hours since she last spoke with Kris and she was already dying.


    Lena did not know if she was torturing the man or herself. The news finally broke out about Andy canceling his wedding with Eva Wu and breaking off the engagement. It did not go into details but some news outlet said that Andy finally left the pauper.


    Madam Yang though, her body was found drifting along the ocean with her head cut off. Authorities said she was murdered and an investigation was ongoing. Her funeral will be on Saturday and her entire family was mourning.


    Lena laughed. No one would mourn her.


    Lena went to her living room to watch a few romantic movies to motivate her before getting ready for her date. Lena did not take the date seriously but she still had to give a face to Ming.


    She tied her hair up in a nice bun and held it with a hairpin. She wore a turquoise mini dress. She put on some earrings and that was it. Lena chose a casual formal shoe with a two-inch heel.


    Ming texted her that he was outside her apartment. Lena grabbed her purse and walked out. He was already out of his car, ready to open the door for Lena.


    "Hello, you look nice today." He complimented her.


    "You too!"


    Ming was wearing a navy suit so it matched Lena''s colors well today. He opened the door for her and she sat down. He walked to the other side and drove.


    When they arrived, it was a local casual restaurant like the Italian one they went last time. Ming parked the car and opened the door for Lena. They walked into the restaurant together.


    Ming already reserved a table for them. The waitress led them to their table and Ming pulled the chair for Lena. Ming was definitely a very fine gentleman today, but not hers.


    They both ordered and the waitress filled up their glass with some red wine to start. Lena took a sip of the wine.


    Ming looked at her. She was not sipping the wine normally but sipping it to taste it. Smacking her lips softly together to taste it.


    He smiled. "You''re going to reject me again, aren''t you?"


    Lena looked at Ming wide eyes and placed the glass of wine back on the table.


    "How do you know that?"


    "I just do."


    Lena knew that Ming was playing mind games with her. "I think you are the one who is going to reject me."


    "Why do you say that?" Ming asked.


    Lena smiled. "You don''t even like me yet you say you will make me fall in love with you. You lied about that. I just... can''t figure out why you''re spending your time pretending to chase me." Lena took a drink.


    "Am I that easy to read?"


    Lena laughed. "Yep. Am I?"


    "Sometimes... but you are.. or were.. going to reject me though right? I was at least correct on that." Ming tried to give him some credit too.


    "Yeah. I prepared an entire speech."


    "I want to hear it." Ming replied.


    "Ok... but can we do that after the food? Just in case you bail out on the bill for me rejecting you."


    Ming burst into a laugh. "Of course."


    So after they had an amazing dinner, they both just chat about the Woman''s fashion show and the recent craziness in the news. After a few laughs, Lena stopped her smile. She got into her role of the whole speech she had prepared for Ming Zhao.


    Lena reached out her arm and held Ming''s arm across the table. Her eyes were those of a puppy. Ming smiled when he knew what Lena was up to and let her do her play.


    "Ming Zhao, you''re a nice man... but I can''t love you." She removed her hand from his and put it on her heart. "My heart... already has someone in it. And, he''s the only man for me. Can we just be friends instead?"


    "One minute."Lena coughed, getting out of the role and took and drink of wine. "Okay... where was I?"


    "Friends."


    "Oh ok." Lena cleared her throat. "If you don''t want to be friends, then...when we walk out of the restaurant, my two bodyguards are going to knock you out, drag you out back, choke you to death. and throw you into the ocean so I won''t have to marry you."


    Ming burst into another hysterical laugh, so loud the other people stared at their table.


    "I think we should leave," Lena smiled.


    They both left but it was heavily raining outside. Since the restaurant was local, parking was normal and they park further away from the entrance.


    "You wait here, I''ll drive the car around." Ming said.


    He ran out in the heavy rain to go to his car. He was soaking wet but one person getting wet was better than two. He drove the car around and Lena goes inside. She looked at Ming and he was wet, his clothes dripping onto his seat, soaking it.


    He drove Lena to her apartment and the rain has stopped by then.


    "You''re drenched. Wanna go inside to change before you leave?" Lena offered.


    "It''s fine." Ming sneezed.


    "See you just sneezed. You''ll get sick and then Madam Zhao will force me to marry you. Come inside and get change."


    Ming looked at Lena then nodded. He drove his car further and used the outdoor parking. They both walked to Lena''s apartment together.


    ----


    Kris was busy the whole day. Apart from him being irritated today, he tried to keep it down the entire day. He had meetings with his shareholders today, regarding their rise in stocks and their international companies.


    Later that night, he had a meeting with his private security team. He was yelling at them for that one day his mother went missing for a few hours. He doubled up the security on Madam Li. He just got rid of Madam Yang and agitated the Bai family. Although they don''t know yet, it was good to always be cautious.


    Kris got out of his last meeting. He walked into his room with Collin following him in. Kris looked at the clock and it was 8:30 p.m. He looked at his phone and there was still do text from Lena. He sighed.


    Collin cleared his throat. Kris ignored it and send Lena a text.


    Kris: Did you eat yet?


    Collin cleared this throat again.


    "What!" Kris shouted.


    "Uh... Today is Friday."


    "I know that." Kris sounded annoyed.


    "Miss. Shen has her date today..."


    "What?" Kris stood up. Of course, Gary mentioned it once too. He had been so occupied with Lena''s weird behavoir that he forgot that she had a date. "How long ago?"


    "Uh... I think an hour and half ago?"


    Kris instantly dialed Lena''s phone number. She should be home already.


    "Hello?" The phone got connected but a man''s voice spoke.


    "Who''s this?" Kris asked.


    "Who are you?" The man replied.


    Through the phone, Kris heard Lena''s voice shout.


    "Ming-ge! Are you still in the shower?" Lena yelled, but Kris could only hear her faintly.


    "Not yet, I was waiting for you!" Ming shouted back.


    Kris instantly hung up. He grabbed his overcoat and ran out of the door.


    "Where are you going?!!" Collin shouted.


    ------


    Ming smiled at the call that just got disconnected. Obviously, he knew that the caller was Kris, his caller ID showed up. He just couldn''t help but tease the man. Payback...


    "I already put the clothes on the bed. Did you not see it?" Lena spoke through the door.


    "Uh... Oh.. I see it now." Ming lied.


    "Well, hurry up... I need to sleep!"


    Lena was confused. Inviting him in for a free change of clothes turned to him needing a shower before leaving. She already offered him clean clothes, she could not be mean and deny the poor man his shower too. Lena already rejected him twice now.


    Ming already finished changing his clothes before he picked up the call. Lena must have left her phone in the guestroom when she brought him clothes and a towel.


    Ming got out. He thanked Lena and left. Lena went to clean the guestroom a bit and noticed that she had left her phone there. She checked it but there was nothing. Ming already erased the history.


    It was a bit humid after the rain. Lena changed into a sleeveless, silk nightgown. She flopped onto her bed and tried to finish her romance movie.

 Chapter 187 - His sturdy 6-packs

    On the other hand, Kris got to his car and sped to Lena''s apartment. He turned on his tablet and connected it to his car. He looked at the tracker and noticed that his tracker on Ming Zhao showed his already leaving Lena''s apartment.


    He pressed on the gas and soon, he saw Ming''s car pass him. Kris makes a quick and sharp U-turn and chased after the man. Ming saw Kris'' car speeding up to him so he slowed down.


    Kris instantly drove in front of Ming''s car and Ming barely stopped in time. Ming got out of his car and Kris did the same too, rushing toward Ming.


    "Yo man, are you crazy?" Ming spoke.


    Without even giving the man a glance, Kris swung his fist and punch Ming across the face. Ming stumbled back from the hit. When he stabled his stance, he touched his lips and was bleeding.


    Kris grabbed Ming''s collar and pushed him to Ming''s car. "What were you doing at Lena''s place?!"


    Ming put his hands up in surrender. "Nothing. I just got wet from the rain and she offered a change of clothes."


    Kris stared straight to Ming''s eye and knew that he was not lying. He released him. Ming continued to wipe the blood from his lips.


    "Take off your shirt." Kris demanded.


    "What?!"


    "I said, TAKE OFF YOUR DAMN SHIRT!"


    "F*ck!" Ming slowly unbuttoned his shirt.


    Cars passed them but luckily there was no one on the sidewalks. The scene would look very awkward with Ming stripping for Kris. He tossed the shirt to Kris.


    "You want me to take off my pants too?" Ming sarcastically asked.


    "I am considering it." Kris spoke sternly. Ming swallowed and shut up. Kris walked up close to Ming.


    "Let me warn you just once... just because we are friends, doesn''t mean you can step out of your bounds, Hugh." Kris threw the shirt on the wet ground and stepped on it before he hopped back to his car.


    Ming spat on the ground and got into his car. He looked himself in the car mirror. "Sh*t. Had to sacrifice my pretty face to play the bad guy." He picked up his phone and dialed a number.


    "Hello?"


    "Cole... you didn''t warn me that he was coming."


    "Not my fault. I told you not to provoke him too much, Hugh." Collin spoke.


    "Damn you... if he gets his girlfriend tonight, I am hosting your Bachelor''s party."


    "What about Tye, he wanted to do that?"


    "His method was too slow. I won it fair and square." Ming fumed.


    "I don''t want any str*ppers."


    "I am hosting it, I will make it worth my punch in the face."


    "HUHG! I Swear if you hire any str---"


    Ming hung up the phone before Collin finished. Ming texted to everyone but Kris.


    Hugh: Cole is getting marry boys!!


    Tye: OH WAT! U stole my party :C


    Lay: Did you give Ada some condoms? *(Ada is Kris'' name btw for their group)


    Hugh: Get out of here Lay


    Cole: Should I give Stella a big ring or a BIG BIG ring?


    Lay: She just needs your BIG BIG D


    *Cole has left the conversation*


    Lay: So Hugh, we getting str*ppers right?


    *Hugh has left the conversation*


    Lay: Lay is typing...


    *Tye has left the conversation*


    -----


    Kris parked his car and quickly went up to his penthouse. He popped into his shower and let it run all over his clothes, soaking it entirely wet.


    Then, he left and took the elevator down to Lena''s apartment. He knocked on it very hard. Lena was enjoying the perfect moment when the actor was going to kiss the actress. She screamed and hopped off her bed. Who dare knock at her door and interrupt her sweet time.


    She did not take a look at the peephole and just opened it.


    "WHO--" Lena stopped and looked at a drenched Kris, soaking the carpeted floor outside her door. "Kris?"


    "Can I take a shower?" Kris walked in without an invitation.


    "Why? You just live upstairs."


    "Yours was closer." He went to the guestroom that Ming was using before and quickly locked the door.


    Lena tilted her head a bit and was confused. He was drenched wet but... didn''t it stop raining awhile ago? And taking the speed elevator to his penthouse was way faster than taking the normal elevator to her house.


    Lena scratched her head... Kris has come to haunt her house again. Lena looked out the door, deciding if she should leave or not. She closed it and went to knock on the guestroom door.


    "Kris! I have no clothes for you!"


    She did not hear any response but the shower running. She signed and just sat in her living room. She closed her eyes and doze off.


    When she heard the door open, Lena fluttered her eyes opened and looked at Kris.


    "Do you have any clothes?"


    If Lena was in an anime, her nose would be bleeding from the exposure of Kris'' bare skin. His hair was still somewhat dripping water down his bare chest. He had just a small white towel wrapped around his waist.


    Lena swallowed. She could see his sturdy 6-packs... when did he get that? She looked back and spotted at the scar on Kris'' chest. She looked up and stared at... Russo.


    "Lena? Do you have any clothes?"


    Lena shook her head but she was still staring at his chest. Kris smiled at her mental state. ''Yeah keep staring baby... it''s all yours.''


    Lena finally blinked and her eyes spotted something else. Kris'' hand was completely red. Without hesitation, she walked to him and grabbed his hand and blew on it.


    "What did you do?" She asked.


    Kris blushed a bit from her sudden cold touch.


    "Did you get into a fight?"


    Kris just stared at her... she was worry about him. He wanted to say he punched his bestest friend and totally broke his bedroom wall by punching it twice a few minutes ago, but he kept quiet.


    "Sit. I will put some medicine on it before it gets swollen." Lena dragged Kris to the sofa and went to grab her first aid kit.


    She sat next to him in his 3/4 naked state which she totally ignored now. Lena opened the box and started tending to Kris'' wound. When she was focused on that, Kris was looking at her.


    "Do you... like Ming Zhao?"


    Lena looked up at Kris. "Why?"


    "You had a date with him."


    "Oh.. he was the fiance that I wanted you to beat up." Lena replied as she went back to his hand.


    ''FIANCE!'' Kris silently exploded inside. ''Hugh said there was no fiance but he was the stupid fiance all along... just wait till I get out of here, I will cut off his d*ck!''


    Lena continued to speak. "But... we are not really engage engage.. just our parents had a promise or whatever. I rejected him though. Told him I will kill him if he got anywhere near marriage."


    She glanced up and stared at Kris. "Kris... I... I lo--"


    "I love you."


    "Hm?" Lena was dumbstruck for a second there. She was supposed to say it. When did he say it first, wait he said HE LOVED ME!!. Lena''s mind went blank. "Can you say that again?"


    Kris placed his hand on her neck. "I said... I love you, Lena Shen."


    He pulled her in and kissed her on the lips. Lena''s eye was wide opened. Kris only kissed her lightly and then left her soft lips. He knew that she was surprised. He would have wanted his confession to be more romantic but she might get stolen any day.


    "You want me to say it again? I. Love. You."


    Again, he pulled her close and kissed her. Lena closed her eyes this time. She was hesitant at first still not believing the words she heard but she let him in. She opened her mouth and he dove his tongue inside her.


    Lena did not know where to put her hands, he was almost naked everywhere! She clasped her hands on his face and pulled their bodies closer to each other. She twirled her tongue against his, mixing their saliva.


    However, she quickly pulled out and stopped them. She needed to say it too! "I love you too!"


    Kris smiled and pushed her back on the sofa and kissed her again. Lena hungrily let Kris devour her. He sucked on her soft lips and stuck his hot tongue inside her again, exploring the cave he has long familiarized himself with.


    He could taste a sweet wine from her and continued to take out every last memory she as on her date. Everything inside of her should only be memories of him, no other.


    Kris slid his hand on her thighs, creeping slowly up. Lena instantly pushed him away.


    "Sorry." He apologized. He should have asked her first.


    "No." Lena said. "We need to stop."


    Kris backed away from her. "Ok."


    "You need to leave now."


    Kris was a bit sad. He was sorry!! Don''t kick him out yet.


    Lena grabbed Kris hand and dragged him out of her door and closed it shut with a loud slam.


    "Lena!" Kris knocked on the door once. "I am sorry."


    "No, I am sorry." Lena replied.


    Kris was confused.


    "You need to leave now or..." Lena looked out the peephole. "I will seriously eat you raw right now. I am not going to wait for you to finish cooking."


    Kris backed away from the door and smile. "I didn''t know you were so dirty."


    "Don''t say that! It''s embarrassing!"


    "Really? I will do dirty things with you. Let''s roll on the mud together." Kris teased.


    "Don''t you dare tempt me, Kris Li. I swear you are cutting my patience short!"


    "Are you looked through the peephole?"


    "I am not!" Lena lied.


    "So you won''t see me if I took off my towel and dance in the hallway?"


    "Kris! Stop that. Someone can see you!"


    He smirked at her. He walked and position himself so he knew that she could clearly see him fully from the peephole.


    "Only you will see me. I am really going to do it!" He grabbed onto the end of the towel and was ready to pull it.


    At that moment, Lena opened her door. She pulled his towel down and wrapped it around his neck. She pulled the towel toward her. It pulled Kris completely naked body toward her. She smacked her hungry soft lips on his and let him go.


    "Don''t say I didn''t warn you."

 Chapter 188 - Out of order (R-18?)

    ============


    RED ALERT - The following content in this chapter is not suitable for ages 18 or below. Please also make sure the comment section are respectful of everyone, just in case a few want spoilers but not the details of the chapter.


    ============


    Lena tugged the towel that was draped around Kris'' neck one more time. Their lips touched and Kris immediate put one hand on the back of her neck and the other on her waist, pushing them closer. They went for another round of deep kissing in the open hallway.


    Lena could feel his manhood poke her stomach as she swung her tongue in and out with his, dancing away. Kris could also feel the intense heat surging up down below, more than ever before.


    Kris swung Lena''s feet up, to which she responded by wrapping it around his waist and he quickly carried her inside the apartment. He closed the door and pushed Lena''s back to the front door and kissed her again, as he locked the door with one hand.


    Kris does not remember, but they had been in this position before. Having the height advantage, Lena sucked Kris'' lips and tasted the inside of his mouth completely, not leaving an open space for any of them to breathe.


    They stopped again after a few minutes to catch a small break. As Lena catch her breath, Kris nudged his face on her neck, giving her pecks and kisses on it. His hand swept to her buttocks and squeezed it as she let out a small moan.


    "Kris..." She softly called his name and he stopped to look her flushed face. Her lips were a bit swollen already from the several intense kissing sessions they had. "I..."


    Knowing what she was stumbling to speak out, Kris put a finger on her lips and kissed her forehead. "I won''t do anything you''re not ready for." He whispered to her.


    He supported her back and carried her to the sofa. He sat down as she loosened her grip on his waist and bent it instead, positioning herself more comfortable on him.


    Lena knew that as much as she was craving him, there still exists a fear in her heart, the fear of something new and unknown.


    "Let''s get to know each other more." She replied.


    Lena kissed Kris again. Both slowly and passionately rubbing their lips together in a massage, one not dominating another, just perfectly in sync. Kris started kissing back down on her neck and she raised her head so Kris can fully have access to it.


    Kris gripped the bottom of her silk nightgown and tug it off over her as she raised her hands, allowing him to do so easily. Lena was now only wearing a soft pink bra and a cute matching pink underwear.


    "You first." Lena kissed Kris on the cheek and hopped off his legs.


    Lena bent her knees on the ground, her face staring at his large bulging wad of meat stick. "It''s so big..." Lena turned shy.


    "Yeah.. someone kept feeding me too much food. Would have been bigger but you missed a day." He smiled, obviously proud of his own little man.


    Lena put her right arm up and wrapped it around his d**k. Kris felt the sensation of her soft skin and his own breathing turned hotter.


    "Tell me if you don''t like it."


    Lena used his pre-c*m first to rub her hand up and down on his large rod. Knowing that it was not enough, her hand lifted his pen*s straight and she licked it from the bottom up before sticking as much as she can into her mouth.


    She twirled her tongue at the tip before sucking it deep down, establishing a rhythm with her hand that was rubbing the rest of his rod that she could not reach with her mouth.


    Kris rested his head back and he gently placed one hand on Lena''s head. He felt her wet mouth slurping on his d*ck, up and down. And each time she touched the tips of it, he could feel his sperm rushing up to the tip, ready to explode any minute now.


    Lena fastened her pace and sucked in deeper when she noticed Kris moaning her name. Knowing that he felt good, she was happy. She felt her own bottom getting wet from the intense warmup. She rubbed his balls and felt his d*ck inside of her mouth getting bigger.


    Kris jerked his d*ck a bit forward as he released it inside her mouth. Lena felt the rod''s hot liquid flowing to her mouth and his thick rod, pulsing from his ejaculation.


    She removed him out of her mouth but the liquid still warm and sitting in her mouth.


    Kris'' mind went completely blank but he stared at Lena''s cute face with his release in her mouth. "Don''t swallow it, spit it out."


    Lena just looked at him and smiled. Kris instantly knew what she was thinking and before she could do it, he gripped her chin, bent down and kissed her. At the sudden surprise, Lena released the liquid out and Kris'' tongue swept it all clean, making sure to clean her mouth dry too.


    He sat back up and wipe his lips with a satisfied look.


    "You stole it!" Lena fumed.


    He smiled at her depressing face. "There''s more if you want it." He nudged to his still hardened rod, rising up stiff again.


    Lena stood up. She removed her bra and dropped it onto the ground. Kris stopped smiling and looked at her as she exposed her naked breasts in front of him. She bent down and slowly remove her panties and threw it to the side of Kris on the sofa. As she removed her underwear, she noticed her own wetness that already stained the it.


    She turned around and sat on Kris. She turned her head to him and whispered. "Yeah, I want it."


    She kissed him. Lena had her left hand wrapped around Kris and the other holding his d*ck up to her crevice as she rubbed them together... up and down. After she was done kissing him, she turned back to look at their raw skin rubbing against each other. She slid her opening on his long rod, smearing it with her own juice, going back and forth in a slow motion.


    Lena moaned as his rod tickles her opening, playing with her clit. She removed the hand around Kris and use that to squeeze his balls and she continued to slide back and forth on him, moving at a faster pace.


    Kris looked at her moving butt and grabbed both of her breasts as it jiggled so openly when she moved.


    She put her hand over her mouth and moan. "Mnnn... Kris.. stop that."


    Hearing her soft moan of pleasure, he squeezed her n*pples with his fingers and she moaned louder, still sliding her raw opening on his rod.


    Lena felt his rod mustering up for another release. She fastened her pace and put more weight down on it as she moved back... and forth.. again and again. Kris released her breasts and suddenly sat up, pushing her hand down on the glass table and her butt sticking out to him.


    He stood up and jam his d*ck between her legs, closing them tight as he pushed in and out, just sliding it quickly outside her entrance. His rod was rubbing her sensitive clit each time he pushed in. She squeezed her legs tight for him.


    Kris wrapped one hand around her waist and started rubbing her clit instead and move in and out between her leg.


    "Ah... not.. so...ah...." Lena moaned.


    Kris used his other hand and played with her breasts. Each time his finger squeezed her n*pple, he also squeezed her clit down below.


    Kris could feel her reaching her climax and he jammed his rod more roughly between her legs. Lena could hear the slapping of their meat, his thighs on her butt, and the sound of the excess juices, squishing together.


    "Krissss..." He rubbed her down below really fast and then she exploded first with a loud scream. Her entire body went limp but he quickly held her butt and moved in and out a few times and found his release, spraying it entirely on her glass table.


    He picked her up gently and held her on the sofa. He rested her head on his chest as she breathed in and out. Her naked body rested on him as he gently rubbed her head.


    After her breathing was normal, Lena looked up and Kris and he smiled at her face.


    "We did this out of order." Lena spoke.


    "Hmmm?"


    She got up and straddled on his legs again. She kissed his lips quick. "Mr. Kris Li, would you like to be my boyfriend?"


    Kris laughed. They did go out of order, but who cared, there are no rules when it came to them. "Yeah." He kissed her back.


    He lifted her up again and stood up, walking. "Let''s go to your room, so we can learn some more."


    Lena cradled her head on his neck and wrapped her arms around him. "Yeah... more."

 Chapter 189 - More? (R18)

    ============


    RED ALERT - The following content in this chapter is not suitable for ages 18 or below.


    ============


    Kris opened the bedroom door and walked into her room. He tossed her to the bed and smiled at her as her ample breasts jiggled from the fall. Lena stared into his sweet eye. She cannot believe that this was the man who could not touch any woman... her man now.


    Kris crawled on top of him and stopped between her legs. He opened them. "Your turn." He said in a low husky voice.


    Lena did not refuse him, she opened her legs for him and relaxed back, wondering what he was going to do.


    Lena groomed herself well but she does not entirely shave her opening clean. She kept a bit of hair still at the top, but everything else was mostly clean shaved.


    Kris bent his head down as he prived her opening with his hands. Lena squirm a bit from the touch. Kris stared at her pink crevice, still wet from before. He smiled, just more for him.


    Without warning, he licked her entire opening, from bottom up. Lena''s feet would be tightened each time his tongue licked her opening, removing her juice that oozed out, but more just come. Kris held her leg apart so she doesn''t suddenly squeeze his head to death. Although, the thought of dying between her legs, giving her pleasure doesn''t sound as bad.


    Kris licked and goes back to the bottom and licked again, like sipping for water. Each time he does it, he felt Lena''s vag*na tingled from the interaction. He does it for a few more times before entirely placing his mouth on the opening, covering is with his mouth.


    Lena placed both hands on his head and grabbed his hair from the intense sensation. She closed her eyes and softly moan from the pleasure. "Mnn... Ah...."


    Kris sucked it and she cried louder. He stuck his tongue inside and she released her grip on his hair and instead grabbed onto the bedsheets and pulled it.


    "Ah... It... feels... Mnnn... so good." Her legs kept squirming as he stuck his tongue inside and moved around. He continued to hold her legs down. As her juice build up again, he sucked on it more, not allowing them to leave her.


    "Kriss..."


    "Not yet."


    Kris knew that she was reaching her cl*max but he doesn''t want to end so soon. He stopped and moved up to her, letting her take a short break. He captured her lips and shared some of her leftover juice from his tongue to her. Lena stopped gripping the bedsheets and wrapped around his neck to pull him in closer.


    Kris placed one hand on Lena''s breasts and massaged it. She moaned and he stopped kissing her, going back down to her neck instead, making sure he left his mark on her today. Lena arched her head back and Kris trialed his kisses down to her other empty breast. He licked it first before entirely capturing her n*pple with his mouth.


    "Mnnn... more." Lena pleaded.


    As he sucked on her breast, his other hand moved back down to her opening. He caressed it softly first, making sure she was wet down there before putting one finger inside her. Lena''s body jerked from it entering her, not due to pain but another sensational explosion. She gripped the bedsheets again as Kris continued to work on her.


    He put the finger inside and pulled it out. He pushed it back in and then out. In and out. Each time he went in, he wiggled his finger around, stimulating her insides.


    Lena could feel her body, building up to her end but it was not enough. "More....ahh...more."


    Kris chuckled. His woman really did want more. He stopped sucking on her breast and position his body entirely on top of her. He kissed her as one hand rubbed her breast that he had previously sucked on and stuck two fingers inside her.


    He stopped kissing her to let her moan and he kissed the other side of her neck instead. Lena could feel a slight pain from two fingers but it was very minimal compared to the pleasure she was feeling below. He quickened his pace down inside her hole. Quickly going in and out, one finger, two, wiggle, out and repeat.


    After a few minutes, Lena screamed from her intense second cl*max, which was better than her first. She arched her body upward as she let her feet squirmed from the epic pleasures. Her mind was completely blank again as she just breathed. Kris stopped and waited for her. He removed her hair from her face and cuddled her head on him.


    After her breathing was soft again, he asked. "More?"


    She looked up to him, knowing that he can definitely go for more. "Yeah, I need to steal back what you stole from me before."


    She felt her legs still weak but she got up on fours and crawled to his legs now. She flipped her hair back and swallowed his entire d*ck inside her mouth. Because Kris was lying down entirely on his back now, and she was in a different position, she was able to stick his meat stick deeper into her mouth.


    Just from the first time, she knew that Kris liked it when she played with his tip. She made sure to twirl her tongue around it as she goes up before doing back down.


    When her mouth was tired, she would stop and rubbed it with her hands before dipping it into her mouth again. Playing with his balls stimulated his hot rod more. And again, she fastened her dive, doing up and down, when she knew he was building up to shoot again.


    Like before, Kris jerked up his rod just a bit as he released it entirely inside her mouth. She pulled out and instantly swallowed it before Kris steals it again. She coughed after she did it and looked to see if her man was pleased with her.


    He instant grabbed her hand and toppled her down on the bed. He flipped the blanket on top of them as he kissed her lips, tasting her again and cleaning her dry since she cleaned him dried down there too. He let her go and just stared at her beautiful eyes. In the dark, they both knew exactly how each of them was feeling.


    He relaxed his body and dragged Lena close body for a cuddle, their hot wet sticky body, next to each other.


    "Don''t force yourself to do it if you don''t like it."


    "What do you mean... it just tastes like you." Lena replied. She placed her finger on his nipples and just circles it around.


    After a while, she placed her hand on top of Russo. "More?? I have not played with Russo yet."


    He kissed her on the forehead. "Sure, anything you say goes."


    Lena toppled over Kris and kicked the blanket onto the ground. They tangled a few more times throughout the night as they explored each other''s desire, without going to the full course. Kris learned what Lena liked and what turned her on more. Lena... the same with him.


    They did not stop until 4 in the morning. Lena was huddled up close to Kris as they both just stare at the ceiling, breathing softly together.


    "The room smells like us...like legitly... that''s all I can smell right now." Lena spoke after a long silence.


    "We can make the rest of your house smell like us." Kris rubbed her arm. "And then we go to my house and make it smell like us too!"


    Lena slapped his chest gently. "You insane human!"


    Lena sat up and looked at the clock. It was the weekend, and they could technically do that, but she was tired. She grabbed Kris hand. "Let''s go take a shower."


    Kris'' eyes widened. He did not think of that. Lena slapped him again, but this time on his bare thighs. "Stop it. Just a shower or you''re not coming."


    "Ok." He picked her up and carried her princess style to the bathroom.


    They both did just took a shower together. Kris washed Lena''s back and she washed his hair. After their cold shower, Lena only had a towel wrapped around her and Kris on his waist.


    "You don''t have any clothes for me." Kris pointed out.


    Lena smiled and dragged Kris to the most unused bedroom. "It''s fine. I think I like you more naked than with clothes on." She pulled his towel off and hers, then jumped onto the bed. She patted the empty spot and Kris crawled in. He covered them with the blanket and Lena cuddled in closer to him.


    "Goodnight, boyfriend." Lena whispered.


    "Goodnight, girlfriend."

 Chapter 190 - Taste it

    Kris only fell asleep for a few hours and woke up. He wanted to stay in bed longer with Lena but they really made a mess last night. He slightly kissed her on the forehead and gently got out of the bed. He closed the curtain so the light would not wake Lena up.


    He grabbed a new towel and wrapped it around his waist. He needed to get some clothes on. Without a care in the world, he took Lena''s key and went out, and hit the elevator door.


    The door opened and there was an older man in the elevator. Kris smiled and greeted him. "Morning." And he got inside the elevator.


    "Mor..morning." The guy looked at Kris, who was cheerfully smiling, only wearing a towel around his waist.


    The elevator stopped at the man''s floor and he quickly got out. Kris waved at the man, still happily grinning as the door closed.


    The man finally blinked. "That was CEO Li... right?" He rubbed his eyes and continued to walk to his apartment.


    When Kris got his floor, he hummed until he saw a bag in front of his door. There was a note on it.


    "Celebrating your manhood, welcome to the Lay family."


    Kris opened the bag and it had a few boxes of condoms, two handcuffs, a cat''s tail, and pink cat ear plastic headband. "Tsk..."


    Kris left the bag on the ground. He opened his door and got in. A few minutes later, he opened it again and grabbed the bag off the floor. He tossed the bag on his bed. He went for a cold shower before getting dressed.


    Kris left and went back to Lena''s apartment. He checked up on her and she was still asleep, now taking fully over the entire bed since he was gone.


    He closed the door and went to cleaning. He tossed away all of Lena''s beddings. He called in for an immediate replacement of the same brands. Lena''s desk and her chair were a bit dirty so he wiped it clean. He went to the living room and cleaned the table where he released it all over yesterday.


    He sprayed a few scented refreshing spray and opened the window.


    The delivery man texted Kris that he had his orders ready. Kris did not want them to ring the doorbell so he went out to get the items. He came back, made Lena''s bed in her room, and then head to the kitchen.


    He washed his hands and then look inside what Lena has in her fridge. Her refrigerator was stocked since she bought a lot of food before to make meals for Kris. Kris took out some eggs and then searched up a video on what easy food he can make with that.


    He scrambled the eggs and added some cheese to it. He put two toast in the toaster and buttered it up. Lena had some oranges so he searched if her kitchen had an orange squeezer. Kris spotted that she hand a manual one. He sliced the orange in half, following the instruction video and squeezed it. He used four oranges.


    He tasted his food before delivering to his baby. She was still asleep. He placed the tray of food on the table and went to bed.


    He crept on the bed and leaned his head to her and kissed her really hard on the cheeks. "Wake up, Lena..."


    She did not budge. Kris patted her cheek with his hand and Lena swapped it away. He chuckled. He buried his neck behind her and tucked his hand inside the blanket. He went up to her breasts and softly squeezed it as he kissed her neck.


    "Ow." She opened her eyes. Kris stopped as she turned to look at him. He kissed her lightly on the forehead and sat up.


    "It''s almost noon." He replied, looking down at her sleepy face.


    Lena rubbed her eyes and wrapped her arms around Kris'' leg. "My breasts hurt... you were rubbing them too much last night."


    Kris chuckled. "I was making them bigger."


    She unwrapped her arms around his leg and gasped. "I don''t need them bigger!"


    "If you rub mine too, it''ll get big too." He whispered to her ears in a sexy voice.


    Lena backed away and covered her head in the blanket. "AAH!" She squealed.


    Kris got off the bed. "Why are you so shy now huh? We''re supposed to be closer now."


    He tried to tug the blanket out of Lena''s grip but she tugged it hard to her side. She popped her head out. "You''re giving me bad ideas early in the morning. It''s not good."


    Kris yanked the entire blanket off the bed and exposed Lena''s entirely naked body. Lena quickly sat up, closed her eyes and cuddle her body. "Please don''t punish me! Respect my dirty mind!"


    Kris threw a silk rob at Lena. "What are you thinking, sweetie. I made you breakfast."


    Lena opened her eyes. "Oh..." She put on the silk rob as Kris brought over the bed tray with food.


    "I won''t tease you anymore," Kris replied.


    He placed the tray over Lena''s legs. Lena stared at the food and then at Kris and then at the meal again. She opened the food cover and smiled. "Where''s my bacon? Where is the meat?"


    "You ate it yesterday, you don''t remember. Swallowed the whole meat a few times, drolling over it."


    "AHHH! You said you would stop teasing me."


    "I did.... I just told you where your meat went. You can have it after you eat tho." He did an eyebrow waggle.


    "Stop it." Lena picked up her fork and was about to eat but then look at Kris, who was staring at her. She put down her fork. "Did you taste it first?"


    "I did."


    "Did you burn my kitchen?"


    "Nope." Kris replied.


    "Ok." Lena took a bite of the toast first. She swallowed and then gave Kris a wink. She picked up her fork and took a bite of the egg.


    However, Kris instantly held her head and kissed her, grabbing the egg out of her mouth and licking her once before leaving. He swallowed the egg and smiled. "Yep, definitely taste better like that."


    She raised her fork up and pointed at Kris. HE STOLE FROM HER AGAIN! "I will spit in your food every time I cook for you."


    "IF... you have the energy to cook for me." Kris started walking out of the room. Lena gasped again and wanted to throw the fork at him. Her aim with darts was perfect now. "Stop moving, Lena. You''re going to spill the orange juice. I made them fresh. Eat and I will go pick your outfit for today."


    Lena obeyed and ate her food as it was already getting cold. Kris left and went back to Lena''s room. He went into her closet. He grabbed a short-sleeve nude colored blouse and a black comfy short. He also chose a matching cute undergarment for her too.


    Kris went back to the room where Lena finished all his food. He placed the outfit on the end of the bed and lift the tray off her. "Dress. We leave soon."


    Lena got off the bed and removed her silk robe, not caring about her naked body in front of him "Where are we going?"


    "You''ll see."


    Kris walked out and cleaned up the dishes. Lena quickly dressed, washed her face, brushed her teeth and tied her hair up in a ponytail. She walked out of the room and saw Kris cleaning up the kitchen.


    She walked up to him and hugged him from the back. "You cleaned?"


    "Yeah." He held her hands.


    "You know... this is the first time you cleaned after your mess."


    He turned around and looked at Lena. He kissed her passionately as he wrapped his arm on her waist. Lena kissed him back.


    Kris lets her go and kissed her forehead one more time. "I swear if you keep being so cute, we''re not going to leave your house."


    Lena backed away. "Ah no... I don''t want that. I want to see what you have planned. Plus... I look cute anywhere, so you just need to get used to it."


    Kris slapped Lena''s butt and she jumped a bit and screeched. He held her hand, as he grabbed her purse and started walking them out of the apartment.


    Lena looked at her handsome man''s back. "You know... in college, I made this bucket list, because Hazel forced me to, where I list all the places where I would do it with my boyfriend."


    Kris stopped and turned around to look at Lena in a surprise. "Ok.. I think we are definitely not leaving your apartment today." He pulled her back into the living room.


    "NOOOO!!" Lena dragged him out of the house. "Forget what I said, the list doesn''t even exist anymore!"


    Kris laughed. Lena locked the door and he bent his knees on the hallway. "Get on my back, let''s go, girlfriend."


    She smiled and happily hopped onto his broad back. She wrapped her hands softly around him and rested her head on his back. She inhaled his manly scent and closed her eyes. "Let''s go, babe!"

 Chapter 191 - Before Kris

    Kris entered the elevator and Lena pressed the floor button for them to go down. Lena being on his back reminded her of there touchy adventures.


    Kris spoke first. "Can...we.. keep our relationship on the down-low?"


    Lena''s heart was a bit sad. She was more of an explosive type of person who would scream to the world and show off her boyfriend. "Do you have many enemies who would kidnap me and use me against you?" Lena asked. That was usually how it was in movies.


    Kris chuckled. "Yes and no. I do have many enemies, but not those who would kidnap you. My enemies who I have known to do that, I already cut off all their ties to this world."


    "We can keep it down-low... but not too long okay?"


    "Lena..." Kris put her down and caressed her cheeks. "I only want it on the DL so I can have you just by myself for a while. Once the world knows, it''s like a royal wedding. You will always have people taking pictures of us, asking when we are going to get married, making scandals of us, and so much more."


    Her past relationship with Andy had been since a younger age so they never had that much of an attention. They were called the childhood sweethearts. But for Kris, he had never been with someone at all and considered his status too, it will cause more of an uproar.


    And there will be troublemakers ahead in the future, and Kris only wanted them to experience the honeymoon phase of a relationship before they hit the bumps on the road.


    "Sorry, I --" She was going to say, I didn''t think of that.


    Kris pecked her lips. "Don''t be. After we get to have our own fun, you can scream all you want and show off your handsome man wherever you want."


    She smiled. "Yeah, my handsome man."


    Kris held her hand and he chose a black sports car for their trip. Lena still had no idea where they were going or what they will be doing.


    One good thing about having an underground parking lot was that no one would see the person exiting the building. Kris'' car had high tinted glass, so no one can spot them together too.


    Lena wanted to hold Kris'' hand but he was driving stick.


    "Are you going to give me a hint? Or it is completely a surprise?" Lena questioned.


    "Surprise. If I tell you, and you don''t like it, you might leave me on our first date."


    First date... together with Kris. Lena liked it already. "I believe in you."


    "Then you can''t make fun of me. I planned it last minute..." He cleared his throat. "And I have not done anything like this before."


    "I know." Lena smiled. She was very curious what the brain of Kris would think of.


    "What did you do on your first date?" Kris asked.


    Lena looked at him. "You really want to know? What did I do with my ex? You don''t have to worry, everything about you is already way better than him. I mean EVERYTHING."


    "I just want to know you more. And do things that you have not done before." Kris glanced at Lena.


    "Well then, if you must know. They say that if you kiss your boyfriend at the top of the Ferris wheel, you''ll be together forever."


    "Did you kiss?"


    "I did. But we were not together forever, nor was it romantic either. Movies are lies. The seat smelled of sweat and I was more scared of falling off because of the seat rocked back and forth too much. It was also noisy."


    Lena turned her body to the side so she could stare at her handsome man. "I personally would say our first kiss was better. I can still remember it so clearly. Grabbing an attractive man and just kissing him senseless in front of everyone, marking him as one of mine?"


    "One... of yours?" Kris raised his brow.


    "Well... we were not dating then.. so yes.. one of my plenty of fish in the sea. I needed to mark the handsome ones."


    "Did you mark anyone else?"


    Lena turned her body and sat straight again. "You see... I never had time to mark others because that first one was already everywhere in front of my face. He kept chasing me home."


    "Yes... and you marked me twice babe. Don''t forget your canine bite."


    "Ah!!" Lena covered her eyes but let it go shortly afterward. "You can''t keep counting because you made countless marks on me!" Lena touched her neck. "How many did you do?!"


    Lena only glanced at her body for a bit when she got dressed and brushed her teeth.


    Kris smirked. "You don''t want to know." Kris changed the topic. "Who was your first kiss?"


    Lena glared at Kris. Is he trying to remind her of childish mistakes and rubbed her stupidity on her? Even so, if Kris wanted to know, she does not mind telling him. Some people say that your current man asked because they might have small insecurity or they are just competitive in nature.


    She tried to recall when her first kiss would be. As a child, you would kiss your mom and dad and other families but her real first kiss would be... Lena gasped and stared at Kris.


    Kris looked at Lena weird. "What is it?" He asked.


    Lena put her hands on her cheeks. "It''s embarrassing. I mean stupid... very stupid!"


    "That makes me more curious."


    Lena would have assumed that her first kiss was with Andy but no! Because of Ming Zhao, her memory of Fat Blondie resurfaced. "You can''t make fun of me..."


    "I won''t. I just want to know. So I can erase every single memory you have of them." Kris replied.


    Lena put her hands down. "It was before Andy... and just when I had met Hazel. She was really cool so I followed and did lots of weird things with her. There was one boy I would bully a lot, we called him Fat Blondie. I did not really want to bully him but I did so because I got the attention and approval from Hazel.


    That was when I was more stupid and young. Anyways, Fat Blondie bribe me with a chocolate bar and said that I can have it if I kissed him. We called him fat but he was more like chubby cute so I did... actually I did it three times because I wanted three chocolate bars. Aiya! This is stupid.. I am so.." Lena covered her cheeks again.


    Kris burst into a small laugh. Lena''s weakness against food bribery has started since she was a cub. Lena slapped him on his shoulder. "You said you won''t make fun of me."


    "I am not. You were just too cute I laughed."


    Lena laughed a bit too. "I am sorry okay? If you buy me a chocolate bar too, I''ll kiss you."


    "Okay, I''ll buy you an entire lifetime supply of them so I can have a lifetime supply of Lena''s kisses."


    Kris stopped the car and bent over to kiss Lena on the lips. Just a sweet second of tasting her soft lips. "We''re here."


    Lena got out of the car herself. They were up north by the coast of the ocean. But it was not the sea that caught her eyes, but a romantic, horse-drawn carriage.

 Chapter 192 - Lets get dirty

    Kris got out of the car too and felt a wave of warmth from his heart, seeing that Lena was happy to see the horse-drawn carriage. Kris greeted the coachman, who handed Kris a soft blanket. Since they were near the big open water, the breeze might be cold for some rider.


    The carriage was deep blue like the sea. The horse was very big and it was white. Lena turned to Kris and smiled. "I like this."


    Kris held Lena''s hand until she got inside the carriage. Kris sat down and asked if Lena wanted the blanket but she shook her head. Today was bright and the breeze was perfect in the hot afternoon.


    The carriage''s seat cover was opened so it would block the sun. Lena held Kris''s with both her hands and leaned on his shoulder. The coachman got into his seat and the horse slowly start moving, pulling the carriage.


    "Are you going to tell me where we are going?" Lena asked again.


    "Still a no."


    After a while, Lena released her hand from Kris and turned her head around to look at the beautiful ocean, as the waves gently pushed to the shore.


    "You know... I was going to ask you out tomorrow, before this all happened. I still have a reservation for dinner." Lena pointed out.


    "You do?" Kris stretched his arm out on the seat and stared at Lena''s back. "Well, I only planned until tomorrow afternoon, we can make it the dinner reservation."


    Lena turned around and look at him. "We are staying overnight?"


    He patted her cheeks. "Where has your mind wandered off too?" Lena blushed. He can read her mind already?! She has been too much of an open book for him.


    Kris smiled at her cuteness. "Don''t worry, it''s our first date night, not our honeymoon night."


    Lena quickly buried her head to his chest and Kris wrapped his arm around her.


    "I know... but I am scared I might explode and do something bad that I will regret." Lena admitted.


    She has been controlling her sudden urge but it has been harder since the man she was very much attracted to was with her and he accepted her feelings. She does not want Kris to think she just lusted him, because as much as that was indeed true, she wanted to show him her love first and foremost.


    Lena did not want to become the same woman she had worked hard to not be. She was not perfect, but she does also not want to make the same mistakes she had experienced before.


    He patted her head this time. "It''s ok. I''ll just tie you to the bed?"


    Lena pinched Kris on his leg and he laughed louder.


    He hugged her tighter and buried her head more closely to him. "I was just joking with you. I will stop you from doing something bad... the same way you have done to me."


    "Thanks."


    Kris kissed her hair and adjusted their position so they can enjoy the rest of the ride. They rode the carriage for an awhile before they reached their next location. They held their hands throughout their journey from the carriage and walking to the port, where a medium-sized luxury yacht was waiting for them.


    Lena squeezed Kris hand again and grinned. "I didn''t know you were such a romantic."


    Kris laughed and held Lena''s head and turned it. "Babe... not that one... that one..."


    Lena stopped smiling and pointed. "That one?"


    "Yeah." Kris held Lena''s hand and walked first, leading them to a small, commercial fishing boat.


    "Surprised?" Kris asked.


    "Yes." She was indeed not expecting this...


    "You said food taste better if it''s not pre-packaged... so we are going to catch them fresh."


    Lena did not mean that literally.... but she smiled at Kris. Of course, only he would think of something like this.


    "Do you even know how to?" Lena asked him.


    "Nope. But that''s why we have help!" He pointed to the local fisherman on the boat. "Usually, they would be out already early in the morning but they made an exception for you since you like sleeping."


    Lena bowed her head down slightly toward the fisherman to apologize to them. Kris dared to just give her all the blame. The fisherman just looked at the cute couple though. Plus, Kris paid them a hefty sum of money. They wondered why Kris chose a local business rather than some big fancy stuff.


    Kris dragged Lena inside the boat. "I told you I would not mind doing dirty things with you. Are you ready?"


    Lena laughed. "Yeah. Let''s get dirty."


    Kris wanted Lena to have fun and it would not be fun and authentic if he made the trip entirely out of money. So instead of something fancy, he chose the local fishermen.


    During their trip, Kris and Lena did mostly nothing but got dirty. Lena never thought that she would be afraid of live fishes so much. She screamed a few times at the nasty things that were caught but she did not mind getting dirty. They only went out for a bit before it turned dark. However, they were able to catch a few stuff.


    Lena had a fun time with Kris and the crew member. She learned a lot more about the things she loved to eat. Although they caught more fishes than seafood, the fishermen gave the sweet couple a bucket of fresh and live seafood that they caught the day before.


    When they got off the boat, they both thanked the men for putting up with their rich people habit. Lena carried the bucket of stuff they caught, still alive and moving around in the bucket that was covered. They were both wet and stink of fish and the sea.


    "Now what?" Lena asked.


    "Dinner." Kris picked up Lena, princess style and carried her into the medium-sized luxury yacht from before. He carried her up.


    One of the workers greeted them. "Welcome, Mr. Li and Miss. Shen." He grabbed Lena''s bucket but she tugged it tightly, not letting go. IT WAS HER FOOD! No one steals her dinner.


    Kris laughed. "Lena, babe... let go. They are just going to clean it and cook it for us."


    Lena looked at Kris. "Oh.."


    She lets go of the bucket. Kris carried Lena to a room and placed her feet on the ground. "Take a shower and get change. I''ll meet you in a bit."


    "Where are you going?"


    "To take a shower too. Unless..." Kris walked closer to Lena. "You want to shower together again?" He spoke in a hoarse, raspy voice.


    Lena pushed his chest with both hands. "Nope."


    He tapped her nose and turned around. "See you in a bit, then."


    Kris closed the door to Lena''s room and entered the next room over to clean himself up too.


    Lena took her time to shower, making sure to remove the scent of fish from her. After she was done, she spotted her clothes on the bed. She put it on.


    Her outfit was dark amber in colored with a crop top blouse shirt and a slime-fit, loose, high-waisted pants. Lena dried her hair and tied it up. With the wind, it was not good to let it down.


    She opened her door and walked to the rails of the boat and stared at the open sea. The sun was just setting and it was a pretty sight. The bright fading colors reflect off the waves of the water.


    "Hello, beautiful." Kris hugged her from behind and kissed her open neck to smell her refreshing scent. "Food is almost ready."


    Lena gently turned her body around, his hands still wrapped around her waist. She wrapped her hand around his neck and smiled. "Food? My food is right here."


    Lena deeply kissed Kris. He moved one of his hand on her waist up to her back to support her as he sweetly kissed her back. Lena voluntarily opened her mouth and Kris took the cue. He passionately tackled her tongue and their sweet saliva mixes again.


    They twirl their tongues in sync after their last night''s passion of exploration of each other. They smacked their lips together a few times, sucking each other. When they both feel that they were out of breath, they parted away, still tightly holding each other.


    They heard the sound of a bell. For Kris, he knew that meant their dinner was ready. Kris caressed Lena''s lip with his thumb and gently dry her lips. He quickly kissed her one last time before parting their bodies and leading them to their romantic dinner on the deck.

 Chapter 193 - Confession part 2

    When they reached the top, Lena spotted their table perfectly set up. The deck was decorated with hanging lights.


    Kris pulled the chair for Lena. He walked to the opposite side and sat down. One of the workers poured some wine for them as their food came out.


    Lena was awed at the dishes that were cooked. Cooking fish was not one of her specialty in cooking.


    Kris scooped a large portion of the fish for Lena. She smiled thankfully at him. Kris was expecting her to do the same thing back but she already dived into her food.


    It was not after she ate a few bites that she then picked up a shrimp with her chopsticks and put it for Kris to eat. He moves his head up to the middle of the table and took her offer, right off her own eating utensil.


    "Tell me Kris, is your mind this awesome?"


    "I feel that if I answer that, it would not be romantic anymore." Kris replied as he continued to eat.


    "Then a day we have our first argument, I will ask again."


    Kris grinned. "Half was my own but the other half was from... life skills."


    Life skills... Lena wondered what school he went attended to learn such amazing life skills. At that thought, Lena looked at Kris and wondered.


    "Kris... did you go to school?"


    Kris glanced up to meet Lena''s eyes. "Are you doubting my completion of several degrees from some of the most prestigious universities in the world?"


    Lena gulped. She put up her hands and waved it as in no. "No, no. I was just thinking... you were sick at a young age and then you developed your current sickness and spent a lot of your life recovering... I think."


    Lena does not entirely know Kris'' full story yet. When he told her, there were many missing years and details that Lena does not know. She knew that once he was ready, he will tell her someday. She has secrets of her own too.


    "My degrees are fake." Kris smiled and took a sip from his glass. "When my grandfather... stole me, I only got up to an education of... high school I would say."


    He put his glass down and stared at Lena. "Why? Are you going to back out now that your boyfriend does not have a high education?"


    "No way! A person''s success if not always correlated with his or her education. Look at me! I completed a real degree from a good university, and you are running a multi-billion company while I am sitting at my desk drawing and signing papers." Lena laughed. "I would not care if you were her penniless man or a divorcee. I love you now, your past and your future."


    Kris softened his eyes at the woman babbling in front of him. He smiled and continued to eat. "How did you know I was a divorcee?"


    Lena dropped the food she had picked up with her chopsticks. "A WHAT!" Lena just made a joke, she was not really expecting it to be true. She just stared at Kris with widened eyes.


    "Didn''t you say you would not care?" Kris continued to casually eat.


    Lena could not get a word out of her mouth. "I still can be angry. You are really not joking with me right?"


    "No."


    Lena screamed and threw her chopsticks at Kris. Instead of dodging it, he just let it hit him. He was wondering when he was going to tell her, but he guessed that since she brought the topic up, it would be better now than later.


    "Do you have a kid too that I suddenly do not know about?"


    "Your boyfriend is still a sweet virgin, how can I have a kid? We can go make one though."


    Lena stood up and fumed. She was being serious and Kris was taking this to light-hearted. "People can steal your sperm and then make a kid with it!"


    Kris got up from his chair and hugged Lena tightly. "Don''t be mad. I am sorry."


    Lena closed her eyes and calm down a bit. She hugged him back. "Is she prettier than me?"


    "Prettier....? HE is definitely uglier than you by a ton."


    Lena looked up at Kris and distanced their hugs a bit. "A MAN?!" She buried her head back to Kris'' chest and pretended to sob. "Ah!"


    Kris quickly picked Lena up and she stopped her fake sobs. He carried her to the large open sofa at the back of the deck. He sat down first then hugged Lena with him.


    "To be honest... I think it only lasted 8 hours." Kris recalled.


    "Tell me how it went."


    Kris put a hand on Lena''s head and consoled her. "I married my best friend. It took a few years after my mother work up before she could steal me back from my grandfather''s hold. It was a cold rainy night, that I had to choose between friendship or family."


    Kris'' eyes darkened as he looked into the night sky. "My grandfather was the only one I considered family then. Hugh and I... come from families that can never be friends."


    Hugh... that name again from Kris.


    "Hugh was the only person that made me experience being a child, well before you that is. I infiltrated the place he was staying at, killed his security team and pointed my gun at him, a person who was completely defenseless. Hugh laughed at me and told me to fight like a real man. I tossed my gun aside and we fought with fists.


    Hugh was never much of a man who was brought up to fight and kill. I put my arm around his neck and chocked him breathless, no sympathy for our friendship. However, at that moment of his last breath, he said "Ada... Marry me." I don''t know why, but I stopped chocking him. He coughed for a long time and I stared at his bloody face. He told us to get married. If we were to get married, then the two families would not kill each other.


    At that moment, I looked at the child who showed me the first brightness in my dark world. The stupidity of our youth and friendship, we ran and got married. Faked our age but got a real marriage."


    Lena looked up at him. "And I thought I was the only one who was stupid... Did you kiss the.. bride?"


    Kris smiled and kissed Lena on the head. "No, you''re not the only one who is stupid. We''re both stupid. And no, I did not kiss the bride. Hugh and I drank all night and when I woke up, I almost killed him again for making me marry him. We got a divorce the next morning and Hugh covered our tracks."


    "How did you even get married so late?"


    "In Vegas." Kris answered.


    "You flew to just get married?!"


    "No silly. China has a few places like that too."


    "I swear, if I ever meet Hugh, I will choke him to death myself. WHY couldn''t he stay imaginary!" Lena fussed.


    "Feel free to choke him."


    "If you faked your age... then you technically were not real people. So your marriage was not real."


    Kris held Lena tighter and ruffled his nose on her hair. "Lena... let''s make our relationship entirely real."


    Lena sat up and stared at Kris. It''s confession time part 2. "You remember that time I was drunk... I lied to you. I remembered everything, even when.. I... kissed you.. a lot." She waited for Kris to respond.


    He kissed her nose. "I know you lied."


    "What?" Lena was shocked. How many more things does he know? "Well, you know that time you had your second relapse, well, I kissed you there too! I did not punch you."


    He smiled and kissed her forehead. "I know that too."


    "What?!"


    "Keso brought over the video recording of the camera in the alley. The flight was flickering because it was using more electricity to record than lighting up the alleyway."


    Lena blushed. He knew everything!!


    "My turn." Kris held pulled Lena''s head toward him and deeply kissed her lips. After a few seconds, he released her. "One time, you were sleeping and I french kissed you without your permission"


    "When?!"


    "Hmmm..." Kris tried to remember which day it was exactly. "The day Andy stayed at your place."


    "That was a long time ago!"


    "Yeah... I have liked you since then." He kissed her again and carried her soft tender body to her room. "You''re the brightest star in my life."

 Chapter 194 - Now shoo

    Kris opened the door to Lena''s room and placed her on the bed. They were both not wearing any shoes beforehand. He grabbed the blanket and cuddle in with Lena.


    "Any more questions?" He asked. Kris hugged Lena from behind.


    "Are you, bi-sexual?"


    "No. I am Lena-sexual. I am only attracted you to, regardless of your gender."


    "Why did you marry Hugh?"


    "What is marriage?" Kris whispered, not to ask Lena but to question himself. "Back then, I only knew that as a strong bond between people."


    "And now?"


    "A fancy legal term to recognize the relationship between two people."


    Lena laughed but she held to Kris'' hands that were hugging her. "I want to get married though, sometime in the future."


    "Okay."


    "We had our first argument, right? So can you tell me about how you thought of this?"


    Kris did not really want to tell Lena about the things he went through. It is something imbedded in him, a part of him, that he can''t just simply throw away just because he was in love. His past is still a major part of who he is today.


    "The art of seduction." He answered


    Lena was confused. She turned her body around so she was looking at Kris. "Like spies?"


    "When you target your enemy, get information, or kill them, you have to know how to use every method necessary."


    "How did you learn if you can''t... um.. touch a woman?"


    "They way you look at them, or just how you speak to them. Find their vulnerabilities and use them against them. Know what pleases a person and what anger thems." Kris hugged Lena''s head against his chest again.


    He does not like it when she stared at him when he talked about the bad part of himself. He knew that he has the eyes that can kill, Tye mentioned it many times when Kris talked with him.


    "But not you though, my voice, my eyes, and my feelings have been the real me for you." His voice stuttered. "So please don''t think that just because I have the skills, it means that they are lies for you."


    One thing Kris feared, was Lena not trusting him. He had lied a lot throughout his life to get things to be done his way, and he knew that the darkness inside of him would not hesitate to lie again. But with her, at least he can be honest and vulnerable to her.


    When she openly said that she trusted him way back then, his mind was somewhat happy and somewhat ready to take advantage of her. He knew that he was a bad man, and a man doesn''t change overnight.


    "You know what I feared?" Lena spoke. "That you only are attracted to me because I am the only woman that you can touch. You know... like if it''s the end of the world and every single woman died, and I am the only one left, you only love me because of that."


    "No. I am Lena-sexual. I could have been attracted to many other women, but only to you, I feel genuine and loved. The desire to conquer you completely and make you only mine." His voice turned dark in the last sentence.


    Lena could feel a cold shudder down her spine. "Are you a jealous man?"


    "Who is there to be jealous of if there I kill all the men?"


    Lena opened a larger distance between them so they can talk more. "You can''t do that. I just want to know if your someone who does not let me have male friends or not."


    "No male friends."


    "Not even Gary?"


    Kris glared at Lena, with his killing intent gaze. "I don''t like it when you say another man''s name in bed."


    Lena was going to refute that they are not in "bed" but they were on a bed.


    Kris closed his eyes for a while and opened them again. He knew he was getting angry. "Sorry..." He placed a hand on Lena''s cheek. "Just don''t torture me too much."


    Lena smiled. "I am sorry too... because I am a very jealous woman. More internally than physical though. So if you are going out to have dinner with a female woman, that is not your mom or Stella, you need to tell me. If a woman touches you, you need to tell me. If someone dares to flirt with you, male or female, you need to tell me. You only have 24 hours to tell me your daily report of woman around you."


    "Okay." Kris gulped. Women jealousy are way more dangerous that his killing intent. "And you know that I am Lena-sexual right? It''ll be a real word in the dictionary soon."


    "Yes, I know." Lena giggled and cuddle back close with Kris. They stayed silent for a while before Lena got up and kick Kris out. "You go to sleep in your room."


    "Why?"


    "Becuase we might get married tomorrow if you stay here."


    "I don''t mind that."


    "I do, now shoo!"


    Kris chuckled at left to go back to his room.


    Lena plopped down back to her bed and squealed onto the pillow. She felt like a big weight on her chest have been lifted off. She was curious about everything Kris'' went through but everything will take time. She happily dozed off to dreamland.


    She woke up the next day with a dozen notifications from her parents. They wanted her home since she killed off another man in her life, that being Ming Zhao, and they have not seen her for a while.


    Lena realized she went to sleep in uncomfortable clothes. She went to the bathroom to get ready. The small closet in the room has several different clothes and Lena picked one for her.


    The sun was just rising and the boat was already parked on the shore since last night after they finished their dinner. She went out and into the room next door. Without even knocking she slowly opened the door and entered Kris'' darkroom.


    In an instant, Kris turned around and pointed a gun at Lena. She stopped but he immediately withdrew it once he noticed it was Lena. He ruffled his hair. Lena continued to walk to him and sat on the bed.


    She touched his face. "Did you have a nightmare? You''re sweating."


    "Yeah..." He did not want to start lying to her now since yesterday he was the one that asked for a real relationship... and honest one between themselves. "Did you need something?"


    Lena got up and grabbed a towel. "You go shower first."


    He took it and then walked to the bathroom. "You want to join me?"


    Lena was going to reject him... but her baby had a nightmare probably because she triggered some bad memories for him yesterday and then kick him out of her room too... "Fine. But nothing more."


    "No promises."


    The "nothing more" turned into a heated session in the small shower. Lena saw first hand how a morning e*rection was for a man like Kris, even though he had a nightmare! But seeing him cheerful and laughing, it was a good start for their day.


    They both dried each other hair when they got out of the shower.


    "So what is it?" Kris asked Lena again.


    "My parents... they want me home." Lena turned around as a thought past her mind. "You don''t think they know about us... already, right? My parents spy on me a lot...."


    Kris shook his head. As far as he can tell, his mother was the strictest spy a parent can be on their child. Lena''s parent would not know unless his mother found out first... and his mother had not called nor texted him about anything at all.


    "Let''s eat then we can leave."


    "We won''t be able to go out for dinner." Lena reminded.


    "It''s ok. We''ll have lots of dinners together from now on."


    They had their breakfast and then left to go to his car. The yacht parked where Kris had his car so it was a short distance. He kissed Lena goodbye at the underground parking lot so she could drive her own car to her parent''s house.


    Kris rode the speed elevator up to his penthouse. He wondered if he should connect the elevator to Lena''s house too. He will ask her about that another time. He smiled and opened his door. Right when the door opened, a punch immediately landed on Kris'' face. Kris looked up to see a smiling man.


    "Hugh..."


    Ming Zhao shrugged. "That''s one out of five. You know the tradition, or else I would not be here."


    The men have a tradition where you would get to punch by each of them if you got a new girlfriend. Lay had the most but then they stopped after it got useless with him. Collin had his when he dated Stella. And now, Kris will too.


    Kris saw a smiling Lay behind Ming and then the rest of the group. "F*ck!" He did not expect his wondrous morning to be like this.


    "Oh wait... it''s one out of six... since we invited Gary."


    "Why does that man know your Hugh?"


    "Oh... cuz..." Ming went closer to whisper to Kris. "Cuz he found out I am your ex-wife."


    "F*ck off."Kris pushed Ming off him. Their fake ID marriage had been a secret among the two men only. Now... four of them know... but Lena does not know who Hugh was.

 Chapter 195 - Once in a blue moon

    While the guys were having their own fun, Lena was driving to her parent''s house. When she arrived, Aunt Mary told Lena that Shen Mao was in his office by Shen Milli was in the garden. Lena went to see her mother first.


    Shen Milli was on the grass, removing weeds from the flowers and trimming the leaves.


    "Mom." Lena shouted out to her.


    Shen Milli turned and saw her daughter walking toward her. "So you still remember that I am your mom and this is your house."


    Lena smiled and went on the grass and hugged her mother. "Yes."


    Shen Milli handed Lena some garden gloves so they can work together.


    "So I heard... it did not go well between you and Ming Zhao. How come? I thought you both liked each other." She asked.


    "Ming Zhao and I get along well, but we do not have any feelings for each other. If I was forced to be with him, our life would be nice... but it would be a relationship built on respect rather than the mutual feelings of love. But we are not put into the situation of being forced, so I rather choose love and happiness over just being okay."


    "As I have said before, we won''t force you to marry anyone you don''t want to. But... if you want to start your own big family, you need to start building it now. If you wait too long, all the handsome men will get married already." Shen Milli held Lena''s hand. "You are not... going back to Andy, right?"


    "Ah, no mom. Never."


    "Good. You deserve someone better than those who left you."


    "I know." Lena smiled.


    "You have not seen your father yet, correct? Go and talk to him. Since you do not want to get married yet, he will put you to work."


    Lena took off her gloves and went inside the mansion. She washed her hands before going to her father''s office. Lena knocked on the door first and then entered after hearing a response.


    "Dad."


    Shen Mao smiled at her daughter. He felt that there was something different about her. "Sit down."


    Lena sat down. "Mom says that you have something for me to do?"


    "Yes. We have a few new investors at the company. I know you do not want to go big, but as my daughter, you should be there tomorrow with me. It will be a good experience for you."


    "New investors? They must have invested a lot for you to personally do this."


    "You think so too. I thought it was weird when they first invested in our SHEN company, but Henry already dig through all their past business and they are genuine about investing in our company."


    "Then, I will go to work with you tomorrow." Lena answered.


    "Oh and Lena. Make time to go see Andy too. I know you both are not together anymore, but our families should still be there for each other. A powerful man above does not have many people around them."


    "Will do Father." Lena got up and left.


    She texted Henry to forward the details about the new investors to her. Lena texted Kris about what he was doing, but there was no reply from him.


    Little did she know, the men were having their own war at Kris'' house.


    Gary was the last one to give Kris the punch, but because Gary doesn''t do any punching, his was the most lighted one. Instead, Gary hacked into Kris'' bulk of expensive wine and they all drank that instead.


    They were going to trash Kris'' house but Collin was the father that disapproved of the plan. They got drunk and laughed around as they talked about what Collin was going to do with Stella. Ming was talking gibberish about the bachelor''s party.


    Ming tired himself out first. It was only once in a blue moon where he could hand out with the crowd. Keso carried the man out when he left. Soon after, everyone else left.


    Kris looked at his furnished living room with bottles of empty wine and are with food lying all around. He was too tired to deal with that... He will call someone tomorrow to come to clean his house.


    First, he needed to look at his face... he wouldn''t want Lena to see him like this tomorrow.


    His face not that bad.... it has been a long time since he was punched this much. Keso''s punch was the only one that actually did damage to him. He grabbed an ice pack and put it on his face. He looked at his phone and saw that Lena texted him.


    He was too busy running around a drunk Ming to pay attention to his phone. He smiled and texted Lena back.


    Kris: I am fine


    Lena: won''t see you tomorrow :C


    Kris: Tuesday?


    Lena: appointment with Stella


    Kris: Next day then


    Lena: mhm <3


    Lena: Gtg will call you later


    Since Lena was not going to be with him for a while, Kris decided to back to the Li mansion. Tye had said that spending more time with his mother might help open his physical stimulants to the new exposures that Lena had helped him with.


    He grabbed a few files off his work desk and head out. When he arrived, Madam Li was ecstatic to see Kris home. She had urged him to come home more often. Since before, he had stayed at his own place because Lena was helping him, but now that session was in the past, she wanted him to be home more.


    As Kris was having dinner with his mother, she brought up a topic that he had forgotten about.


    "We will be going to see you, grandparents, this weekend." Madam Li spoke.


    "I don''t have any grandparents."


    "Kris." Madam Li raised her voice. "I hate your grandfather as much as you do, but they are still your grandparents. Before your father died, he asked you to forgive the old man."


    "I did... that''s why he''s still alive is he not?" Kris stopped eating. "And grandmother will only bring back another stupid girl to rub her on me."


    Kris stood up from his seat. "I am not going no matter what. If you want me to go, you will have to drug me like last time." He turned around and left.


    Madam Li sighed. There was a reason Madam Li force Kris to go every year... but it was not something he should know about yet... not until he was married. Last year, Madam Li had to drug Kris and kidnap her own son.


    Of course, he was not mad at her, but he despised the sight of his grandfather the most. He not only reminded Kris of all the horrible things that were done to him but also who he still is. Something that he cannot deny.

 Chapter 196 - Lena cannot know

    Kris went to his room and took a shower. He went to sit on his desk and looked at the file he brought with him. It was a report of Madam Yang''s body and the head that was sent to him the next day after Madam Yang was gone.


    Gary told Kris that his father killed her, but they both knew there was something more going on. When Madam Yang told Gary that she was his mother, she never told him who his father was. For him, it was never a concern. He did not accept her, and he did not care for his biological father too. They both left him, they were no parents to him.


    He only dug out the information on who his father was a few days after Madam Yang pressured him to use Lena. And on the night of the engagement, Madam Yang already came and took Gary away to kill him.


    -- Flashback to when Gary woke up --


    (This was the same night as "Drink with me")


    Kris tried to sleep, but how can he sleep after all the thing that Lena did to him that night. And now, the vegetable man was awake?!


    He tossed and turned a few times for a few hours. He finally stood up and walk out of his room. He stopped in front of Lena''s room and opened the door slightly. She was sleeping soundlessly. Kris went down the stairs and back to Gary''s room.


    Kris could hear James talking to Gary as he walked him. James turned and looked at Kris when he walked in. "Mr. Li."


    "Kris is fine. You''re older than me... makes it weird you calling me Mister." Kris replied and walked over to stare at Gary again. He did not know what Lena saw in the man... except his stupid 6-packs. Were women really into that so much?


    "I already explained the situation to Gary." James stood up from the chair. "If you don''t mind... I need to use the bathroom."


    Kris nodded. "I can stay with him."


    James left and Kris sat down on the chair that James was sitting on. Kris casually yawned but Gary suddenly reached out and grabbed Kris'' hand. Kris did not expect the man to have such strong senses after being unconscious for about a month.


    When his mother woke up, she had to work on his vocal and strength build up again. But he guessed since Tye took good care of Gary and he was only down for not very long, his muscle and reflex were still good.


    "Le...Lena." Gary spoke but his voice was dry and weak.


    "James should have told you. She''s fine."


    Gary cleared his throat. "I can help you." He paused before speaking again. "Last time, you said you wanted me."


    Kris did say that. It was the last time when Lena came and brought Gary with him. Kris knew that Lena does not really know who Gary really way... his web identity. It goes beyond his gaming champions and his master level of hacking.


    Gary''s skill was a weapon, a highly sought asset. Kris wondered how Gary had lived such a normal life when if found out, every country in the world would kill for him. But that must have been how good Gary was... not he was living in plain sight, but no one knew.


    Kris stood up from the chair and looked straight at Gary. "How do I know.... you''ve not defected since you have been... injured."


    "You don''t." Gary answered. "I will only help if you help me too. You need me."


    Kris put his hand on Gary''s neck and applied a small pressure. "I can simply just kill you now before you get into the wrong hands."


    "You won''t. James told me that Lena has been helping you with something important. You need her. As long as she is alive, you can''t touch me."


    Kris released his hold on Gary''s neck and chuckled. "Look at you, finally showing your true colors. Using a friend as a shield. Do you ever show her this side of you?"


    "I am only protecting her. So.. are you going to help me or not."


    "Gary Chen... you should know fairly well how I do business. I don''t help people..."


    "I know. Once you help me, I will be entirely under you."


    Kris walked to the door and closed it. Making sure it was locked also. He went back and sit on the chair. "Are you sure you want to give up your entire life, just for me to help you? You just woke up, I don''t want to be doing business with a non-lucid man."


    "I am sure. The quicker the better. Only you can match his powers. You and your family."


    "Match whose?"


    "My father."


    "Your father..." Kris already knew that his mother was Madam Yang, but he had not completely confirmed who Gary''s father was. He knew that Gary''s father was not a lowly man or fling that Madam Yang had with though.


    "What I am going to tell you, Lena cannot know one bit about it."


    "I have no relationship with her. Once Madam Yang is gone, we are strangers."


    "I can''t tell you who my father is yet until I am better. But until then, you need to keep me and Lena secured and protected."


    "Why is that stupid woman involve in everything?" Kris was referring to Lena.


    "Becuase she is the woman that I have loved for years. She is my weakness. And if my father finds that out or anyone else, it would do us no good. I am no genius... I just have a skill that makes me valuable. I already made a mistake when I was looking for my father, for sure that will trigger him to look for me. Even if I died... we need to make sure that was 100% fool proof."


    "Who is your father?" Kris was curious.


    "An enemy of my enemy is my friend."


    James knocked on the door. Kris looked at Gary and gave him some water before he left to go open the door for James. Gary glanced and Kris, and without talking, they both knew what each other were saying.


    Kris left as soon as James arrived. He wondered how f*cked up Gary''s family was... child born from an affair. He was willing to let his birth mother die by someone else hand, and now... he wanted protection from his own father... Just who was Gary''s father?

 Chapter 197 - Picture

    -- Back to present --


    Kris looked at the picture of the head of Madam Yang. Her head was clean cut. He had seen such skills before... one a few of his own enemies that died before he could get to them. The same shot in the head with a clean-cut to chop off their head. Just who was it, that had such a signature.


    Now that Kris knew who Gary''s father was, he knew why Gary was so afraid. Gary was not a genius, as he said himself. He spent his time living a normal list and chasing love, not building up a life full of lies to hideaway. But once someone has something to protect, they change.


    Kris looked at his phone again and his background was a picture of Lena cooking, one he had sneakily taken awhile back.


    After the night both him and Gary spoke, Gary always referenced his love for Lena as a past thing... Kris asked the man several times if he still loved her, but he laughed and kept saying no.


    Even before... when they were drinking he asked Gary again.


    -- Another small flashback to when they were punching and drinking --


    Gary grabbed a bottle of wine and head up to the rooftop. Ming and Lay were both drunk and singing nursery rhymes together. Kris spotted Gary going up and followed him.


    Kris sat down on the lounge chair, next to Gary. He looked at him then stared at the skies. "I really do love her." Kris confirmed.


    Gary turned to him. "I know. And you better be, or next time, my punch will not be the same."


    Kris grabbed the bottle of wine from Gary and drank from it. "But you still love her, don''t you?"


    Gary stole the bottle back and chugged down the whole thing. "It''s complicated. I do and I don''t so just say I don''t. We were always friends, and it''s better that way." Gary stood up and looked down at Kris. "Don''t worry. I know how to take a loss when I lose. I was never meant for her anyways, she deserved a man who would stand next to her, not look at her."


    Gary started walking back to the house but stopped to say one last thing. "Oh... but I really do not like Hugh." He turned around and continue walking.


    Kris chuckled and laid back on the chair as he stared into the open space.


    ---------------------


    Kris did not know what Gary meant by " I do and I don''t" but for sure, he knew that he won''t be letting Lena go to anyone. He already admitted to himself that he was a selfish man.


    He put his phone down and looked at the other information that Gary gave him a while back on Chen Xu, Gary''s father. For sure, Gary did not want anything to do with his biological father, but Gary knew that his father was not a simple man that would easily let Gary go now that he knew Gary.


    Gary still don''t know why his father is in City A...


    The Li family are one of the most wealthy and powerful families in China... however, their underground network does not go as dirty as a few others. like Chen Xu''s.


    Chen Xu and his family were not much well known among the high status but they were a big family made of dirty and illegal money. For him to surface from the underground, Gary knew that it was not just because the man was looking for his son.


    It was never that easy.


    Kris opened the files Gary gave him and just stared at the content.


    Even using Gary''s skill, he was only good as long as the information were accessible through the online network. Kris, however, obtained more information on Chen Xu through his own contacts.


    But what really concerned Kris was the picture that Gary was able to obtain. It was a picture of a bunch of high schoolers. In it, they all huddled around as good friends: His father, Li Jun, was next to his mother. And next to her was Chen Xu. Next to his dad was Madam Yang and Drew Yang. Even Mr. Huang and Madam Huang were there.


    Obviously, the Zhao family was not there since the Li and Zhao families had private bad blood against each other. In the picture, everyone was young and happy. Kris wondered what happened... between them all.


    Would his friends... ever get as horrible as the people from the picture now?


    His phone rang and interrupted his thinking. It was Lena. He quickly picked up the call as he put the file away and in a secure location.


    "Hello." Kris answered.


    "Hi! I am going to bed soon but just wanted you to hear your voice before I go to sleep."


    "This early?"


    "Yeah." Lena replied. "Are you... okay? I can tell your voice sounds different."


    "I am fine, just missing you." Kris walked to his bed and lied down. He was not completely lying to her. Gary and he will tell Lena when they know more.


    "It hasn''t been even 24 hours yet, you can''t miss me already. How are you going to survive when I go on vacation or you go on a business trip?"


    "I''ll kidnap you."


    Lena laughed. "Goodnight Kris. And if you have a nightmare again, call me ok? I''ll leave my phone on loud."


    "Okay, goodnight."


    Lena kissed him over the phone and hung up. She was going to tell him that she needed to visit Andy sometime this week, but she felt that something was wrong with Kris. She will tell him on Wednesday when they meet up.


    Why does her heart feel so heavy again? Like their smooth days were already over... and there were more unforeseen tragedies ahead of them.


    The next morning, Lena woke up early to go to the Shen company with her father. She messaged James to pick her up later in the afternoon for them to go back to SHYNE.


    She walked into the company with her father. When they arrived Henry was already in the meeting room, making sure everything was good.


    "Henry!" Lena greeted him.


    "Lena, nice to see you here."


    They all settled down first as Henry personally went to greet them first and bring them up to the meeting room.


    As far as Lena remembered from the files that Henry gave them, their first main investor was Mr. Sanders. He is originally Chinese but changed his name after getting citizenship in America. He''s getting old and wanted to re-invest in blooming companies in China for the future of his children.


    The next one was the Huang Family. Lena knew that after the Yangs, Zhaos, and Lis invested into the Shen business, their fame and stocks had risen. Maybe this is why other great families are interested in their company.

 Chapter 198 - Presentation

    Lena sat down on her chair patiently. This was just a formal meeting between the two big investors, making sure that their investment was going into great improvements. They already put in their investment but it was always good to establish a good relationship with them so future investments continue to come.


    The door opened. Henry walked in first. Lena and Shen Mao stood up from their seats to greet the investors. Lena spotted an older man with a few of his employees. But what caught her eyes was a familiar face. She did expect to see him so soon again, the young master Huang.


    Lena first assumed that CEO Huang would show up, but it made sense to send his son too.


    Lena shook the hands of the older man first, introducing herself after her father.


    "Hello." The older man shook Lena''s hand. "I am Eddie Brown, COO of Cryus."


    "Hello." So, the older man was the COO, not the CEO.


    Eddie spoke in fluent Chinese. Cyrus was the company brand that Mr. Sanders built.


    Lena shook hands with the other people that came with COO Eddie. And finally, she shook the hands of the young man that have been eyeing her the entire time. She kept her sweet smile up.


    Tyler softly shook Lena''s hand. "Nice to see you again, Miss. Shen."


    Shen Mao glanced at Lena for a short moment. He did not know that Lena already met Tyler Huang.


    "Nice to see you healthy and well, Mr. Huang."


    "Pity that Miss. Shen did not visit me in the hospital. I had hoped to see you come to visit, but I was correct to come today instead of my father so I can see you."


    He was still holding her hand and Lena kindly yanked it back. She cleared her throat. "Shall we sit gentleman?" She changed the topic.


    Tyler was only here so he can see her? What did Hazel see in this man again?.


    The investors sat on one each side while at the front, Shen Mao, Henry, and Lena sat down.


    Shen Mao first thanked the investors and invited them for lunch. COO Brown immediately accepted the invitation to dinner but Tyler turned to his secretary. They whispered some things and then he turned to look at Lena again.


    "Will Miss. Shen be there at lunch?"


    Lena smiled sweetly at him. "Well, of course." Does this man know this is a formal business lunch, not a date?


    "Then I will also be available for lunch with everyone."


    The Shen company would also be having their yearly company celebration too. Shen Mao personally invited the investors to attend the event.


    "CEO Shen." Tyler spoke. "If you don''t mind, can I have a presentation of the information regarding our investment? I know my father was the one who invested, but as the next CEO, I also want to see how great our investments would profit us in the future. I already looked at the report, but I feel like seeing a presentation today would be... more informative."


    He looked at Lena and smiled. Lena did not like that smile... that was the kind of smile she would give to Kris if she was going to do something mischievous.


    "Absolutely, if COO Brown would not mind." Shen Mao spoke.


    "No problem. I would love to see it again too." Eddie Brown replied.


    Shen Mao looked at Henry knowing that it was to signal him to present the information to them. Henry stood up but Tyler interrupted.


    "Wait." Tyler looked straight at Lena and gestured at her. "If possible, I would want it presented by Miss. Shen."


    Henry looked at Lena. Lena does not know much of the ongoing projects and information on all of the Shen companies. She has been mostly assigned to SHYNE and has not worked at the main head company here. Lena only worked on a few things that interested her.


    "I --" Henry spoke.


    Lena grabbed Henry''s hand to stop him. "I will be happy to. After all, who wouldn''t want such a beautiful presenter."


    ''Boy... you''re no match for me. And you are not as handsome as my boyfriend so you better knock that smirk off your face or I''ll wipe it for you.'' Lena smiled confidently back at Tyler.


    Lena got up and nodded at Henry. Henry took a deep breath and gave Lena the controller to the projector.


    Lena stood up at the front. "The majority of the investments will go to the main business branch of the Wine industry. Shen Wine produces exclusively expensive and the best quality of the wine."


    "Why not target more of the population?" Tyler interrupted her.


    "The basic concept of supply and demand. Expensive and high-quality wine is always in demand across the world. There are many companies producing just wine, but not many who can measure up the wine that the Shen Wine industry can produce."


    Lena pointed to the screen using the laser pointer. "And likewise, more supply of our valued wine will also degrade the price of it. Last year we released our first affordable wine brand and it has made a success. However, its overall profit was still not as great as the higher qualities one."


    She looked back at Tyler. "Does that answer your question?"


    Tyler smiled. "Yes, but I have a concern. Just recently, the Shen company had a downfall in the production of their farms. The company will take a huge loss in production in the following years."


    "Your information is incorrect." Lena did not take a breath to refute his statement. "Our company only lost 1% of our plants from the disease that spread. The Shen company was the first to find the cure for it, allowing our loss to be very minimal compared to other companies.


    We already patented the spray for the cure, making the companies buying a large sum of the spray product. Now the Western companies are recently hit with the same disease, which they are already ordering the sprays too. Our loss of product was minimal, our organic crops were not infected, and we even made a large profit from the disaster."


    "1% lost in production? But the spread of the disease must have affected the quality of the crops." He stated.


    "Yes. About 30% of our product was infected. Even if we stopped them from dying, their chemistry is different, which will make them unusable for our original brand of wine. However, from that, we discovered a new product that we can create from the infected crops.


    And it will even be more exclusive and valuable since the microbe needed to create that recipe only thrive in Asia. This new wine cost a lot to make but it is also worth the price."


    "How do you know that it would successful already?" This time, it was COO Brown who asked.


    "Becuase we always have the best recipes. Even with our affordable wine, it competed as the best lower price wine in its category of the competition. There has been no mark in our business history that the recipes we create were unsuccessful. Because this is fairly new though, we are not using investor''s money. So you will be safe regardless"


    Tyler looked at the data of the new wine expected profit. The estimated profit from it was high but its cost of production was indeed high too. If successful, it would positively impact the company. But if not, the company would lose a lot of money when it is released. Even if it does not directly impact the investor''s money, it will still impact the company''s reputation.


    "I have looked at your company''s last year profits and continuing income, but I can''t see how you obtained the sudden cash to invest in this new recipe."


    Finally... Tyler asked a good question. Shen Mao was curious too. In all honesty, Henry and Lena were the ones in charge of this project. He had been passing major projects to Henry, training him for his promotion.


    "People invest in our company, but we also invest too. Have you heard of Project Crystal?" Lena asked.


    Both of the investors and their employees looked at Lena. Project Crystal was a successful hit all over the world. The Zhao company already released its first production of the technology but only with the government and private companies. Everyone knew that such technology would be life-changing and a profitable asset.


    "Our company has 15% of the shares and our family have 10% more, a total of 25%, making us the second-largest shareholder of the company."


    Tyler''s mouth dropped. How can the Shen family already have shares in the company when they just opened the company a week ago?! Even someone as prestigious as the Huang family were only able to get a mere 2% of shares.


    Lena took that as her win. Seeing his startled face, Lena was already more proud of herself and her accomplishments. Even Shen Mao dropped his mouth.


    He did not know that Lena was already growing up so fast and thinking about the future of the company. When did they start investing in Project Crystal and its company? He had not given Lena any money...


    Lena went on and explained about the other companies and business that the Shen Company have. After a long conversation, COO Brown and Tyler were completely satisfied in their investments. COO Brown even offered to double their investment.


    "Thank you for such an informative presentation. You have such a great daughter, CEO Shen. By any chance, is she engaged yet?" COO Brown asked.


    Shen Mao chuckled and replied before Lena could say something. "Not yet."


    "That''s good." Both COO Brown and Tyler spoke at the same time then glared at each other.


    Lena felt like this whole meeting had turned into a meeting looking for a potential husband. See! This is why you need to go public with your relationship status! But she knew why they are keeping theirs on the down-low for a while. For now, Lena will take care of these men herself.

 Chapter 199 - A woman who plays it rough

    Shen Mao had a large limo to come to pick them all up. Only Shen Mao and Lena would be going with the investors. Henry decided to opt-out so he can take care of the rest of the day business at the company.


    When they arrived at the restaurant, they all sat down on the long table. Tyler was acting like an ecstatic teenage boy who got eat lunch with his crush.


    They all ordered and as they wait for the food to arrive, instead of talking about business, they went to talk about Lena.


    "CEO Shen, will your daughter be the next CEO after you?" COO Brown asked.


    Shen Mao looked at Lena then back at COO Brown. But before he could reply, Lena took the initiative.


    "I will not. The next CEO position will go to Henry Han. Although I won''t be that, I''ll make sure that I am still an active part of the company."


    "Would you go for Chairman then?" COO Brown asked.


    "Chairman... I don''t know about that. It will depend on who I will marry in the future." Lena responded. "Afterall, I wish to be a wife and mother before all of that."


    "Spoke very well. You are truly a great woman. I believe you will go great things no matter where you go."


    "Thank you."


    In the Shen company, the current Chairman was Grandpa Shen while the CEO was Shen Mao. A chairman leads the board of directors which was essentially a team that checks and balance with the CEO, making sure that the CEO was properly running the company.


    Some companies have the chairman and the CEO as the same person. Others have the Chairman as the ex-CEO. However, for the Shen family, after Shen Mao retires, he wanted to take a break. The next Chairman would most likely be Lena or her uncle Shen Mo, who mainly runs the farm with Grandpa Shen.


    Shen Mo oversees the international business of the Shen Company along with the CEO. The Shen family was not a family who think that all the power of a company must stay within the bloodline of the family.


    As long as the core values and foundation of the company is respected and continue to be achieved, it does not matter who is the CEO or Chairman. However, to make sure that such a situation does not go out of hand, the Shen family still have the most shares in their company so they can decide who was the next chairman.


    When the food arrived, COO Brown and Tyler battled to earn Lena''s favor. Lena did not know why COO Brown was so motivated to go against a teenage boy. She could guess that COO Brown wanted to set Lena up with his own son or someone from the Sanders family.


    "Miss. Shen," Tyler spoke. "You should come to visit the Huang Company sometime in City D. I''ll be happy to show you around our company sometime."


    COO Brown cleared his throat. "You should come to City B and visit the new head company of Cyrus. It would be a great opportunity to introduce you to CEO Sanders."


    "CEO Sanders, I have heard many great things about him. I would love to meet him." Lena replied, ignoring Tyler''s first offer.


    "Absolutely! How about we set a date right now?"


    "Now?"


    COO Brown does not want to lose to the Tyler Huang. "Yes, how about the following week on Friday?"


    "Sure." Lena replied.


    COO Brown was happy. He turned to Shen Mao and they chatted some more about business in China. Lena glanced at Tyler who was still staring at her. She gave him another fake smiled.


    "Excuse me, gentleman." Lena got up to go the restroom. When she got out, she checked her phone if she got any messaged from Kris, and she did.


    Kris: How did it go?


    Lena quickly replied back.


    Lena: Fine -.-


    Kris saw her reply and called her. Lena walked into the restroom and picked up the call.


    "Hey." She spoke.


    "Are you going to come back home today?" Kris solemnly asked.


    Home. Lena smiled. It was like a housewife asking when her husband will come home. "I don''t think I am. Possible will be staying at the Shen mansion for another day. Why?"


    "I don''t want to go back if you''re not there... and I also don''t want to go back to the Li mansion..."


    "Did you get into a fight with your mom? You''re suppose to be getting closer to her, Kris."


    "It was not a fight, just family stuff."


    "I have an idea." Lena suggested as she walked to the bathroom counter. "You can sneak to the Shen Mansion and stay with me."


    "Really?" Kris'' voice sounded excited.


    "No. I was just kidding, we are not ---" Lena laughed over the phone but the bathroom door opened. She stopped talking but saw who walked in. "Hey! What are you doing here?! This is the women''s bathroom."


    "Me? Didn''t you give me the stare for me to come to meet you here?" Tyler pretended to act dumb.


    "I didn''t give you a stare of any kind!"


    "Pretty sure you were staring at me and my handsome face."


    Lena quickly hung up the call and put the phone back in her bag. "You are ridiculous. Get out! I need to pee!"


    Tyler put both of his hands up. "Fine." He pouted and walked out.


    Lena really did need to use the bathroom. She locked the bathroom front door and then went to use the bathroom. Tyler was crazy! Why does she always attract crazy people?!


    She washed and dried her hands before walking out. Lena spotted that Tyler was still waiting for her outside the bathroom door. She rolled her eyes and continued to walk past him.


    He quickly pulled her hand and turned her around. Lena''s body stumbled a bit from the harsh grab and pull, and she was up against Tyler''s body. She quickly made an angry face and stepped back from him. She pulled her hand away from his gripped but he only tightened the hold on her.


    "Mr. Huang, you better remove your hand on me before I stop pretending to be nice to you."


    "Stop pretending to be nice?" He smiled at her. "I think I like the fiesty Lena more though, like when you left me in the middle of the dance floor." He pulled Lena closer to him and whispered to her. "I like... a woman who plays it rough."


    "Tsk." Lena yanked her arm and swung under their grip and twisted Tyler''s arm. He quickly yelped and released the grip on Lena''s wrist. Lena stepped hard on his feet and turned around.


    Tyler smiled and sexily bit the bottom of his lip as he watched Lena leave and went back to their private room. "I am right... She''s the one."

 Chapter 200 - Proposals

    Kris stared at his cellphone that Lena abruptly hung up on him. ''She was staring at someone? A man too... which handsome man dare compare himself to me?!''


    Kris quickly pushed his work aside and accessed his laptop. He traced the signal on Lena''s phone to locate where she was. He immediately hacked into the weak security system of the restaurant and scanned all the cameras that were near bathrooms.


    He spotted his sweet tigress just the moment when Tyler pulled her to him, as she crashed into him. There was no audio and he could not make out the full conversation but he could read the end of Tyler''s lips.


    At that moment, Kris saw Lena pulled off and twisted Tyler''s arm. She made sure to step on his feet really hard before leaving the man. Kris spotted Tyler''s reaction and what he said afterward when Lena left.


    "That Tyler sc**bag. You''re right that she is the one, but only one for me."


    Kris exited out of the security on the restaurant and called Collin in. Collin knocked on the door and entered.


    "Yes, CEO Li?"


    "Don''t we have a proposal from the Huang company?"


    "Yes. It was a proposal collaboration for the new club that will be built in City D. They have until the end of next month to deliver the complete proposal."


    "Who is currently lead on that proposal from their side?"


    Collin quickly searched up the information on his tablet. "It would be the Tyler Huang, the first son of CEO Huang."


    "Inform the CEO that the Li group will only look at their completed proposal if the second son was leading it. And move up the final deadline to be in two weeks."


    "The second son? But haven''t you been supporting Tyler Huang as the next CEO?"


    "No." Kris went back and looked at his paperwork. "I want to get rid of him."


    Collin was confused. He was pretty sure Kris was rooting for the first son to be the next CEO of Huang company. Why the sudden change? He turned around and left Kris'' office. He needed to immediately inform the other side about the change in terms of their proposal.


    Collin just sat down for a few minutes and Kris buzzed him again. He got up from his seat and entered the office again.


    "Yes?"


    "I forgot another thing." Kris demanded. "Also make sure to blacklist Tyler Huang and his friends from all of our casinos and clubs."


    "Not just City A? Do you want all of our casinos and clubs?" Collin confirmed.


    "All."


    "Very well."


    "And Collin." Kris looked up to him. Kris called him by his name, so it meant that Kris was going to say something personal. "Take the rest of the day off or even the rest of the week. I want you to propose to Stella tonight."


    Collin dropped his mouth. "AH! Tonight?!" He got flustered. "Isn''t that a bit too... quick?"


    "What do you mean? She has been waiting for the damn ring for a while now."


    "But... I don''t think... I.." Collin was quite nervous. Even though he had prepared for this day for a long time now, it is still a big thing. You can never be 100% prepared for a marriage proposal.


    "Just do it." Kris instructed. "If you don''t do it tonight then make sure to be busy for the rest of the year."


    Collin swallowed... It is still just the middle of the year. "Ok...."


    "Oh and you got her the big ring right?" Kris asked.


    "Yes."


    Kris smiled. "Good."


    "Kris, thanks for the support."


    "Support? I am not supporting you. I want you to do it for me so when Lena sees her tomorrow, she''ll see Stella''s big ring and want one too!"


    Collin rolled his eyes... and here he thought his buddy was giving him a push of motivation and courage to get on with the engagement. It was all for Kris'' own good. "You just dated... for like what? Three days... and you already want to put a ring on her?"


    "So... it''s just a ring. You can be engaged for a long time before you get married." Kris replied. He was going to wait with going public or even anything after that, but it seems like it was true that more people will swarm over non-single ladies than when they are single.


    "Yeah... that''s what you think but after she gets the ring, she will start demanding for babies!" Collin suddenly raised his voice as the thought about Stella and him having a child.


    "I don''t care. Are you saying I will be a bad dad?" Kris asked.


    "No... but what if you have a daughter?"


    Kris looked up. He has not thought about that... what would happen then? He smiled. "I want a baby."


    Collin pointed at Kris. "Kris! You can''t. You''ve only been dating for just a few days! You can''t jump the gun!" Collin used his dad tone to advise Kris.


    Kris grinned even wider. He got up from his head and started to walk out. Wouldn''t his daughter with Lena just look like a mini Lena? He can hug two instead of one! He had never thought about that! It would be a big and easy accomplishment.


    "Where are you going?" Collin interrogated.


    "To do research."


    "Research? You don''t need to do research. You spent a good ---" Collin stopped himself. It wasn''t a good month at all for Kris that year. Collin had almost brought up a bad memory for Kris.


    Kris stared at Collin. Collin could see a deep shade of darkness from Kris''s eyes.


    Kris blinked but then smiled. "What were you thinking? Of course, I was going to do research on your bachelor''s party."


    "Isn''t Hugh hosting it?"


    "No. He''s banned for awhile. He had been meeting up with us too much in such a short amount of time."


    Kris opened his door and walked out a bit. "Oh... but he did make sure to tell me to hire some str*ppers for your party." Kris smirked and then slam the door shut.


    Collin was going to yell but with the door open, they were still at work. He opened the door and saw that Kris was already inside the elevator. Collin knew that Kris has been happier than before, but some of his smiles are to hide the demons inside of him. He had never expected that Kris would fall in love.


    And now lately, Kris'' mind has been extra polluted with Lena. At that thought, Collin widened his eyes. Of course, how can he forget, he can advise Kris... but in reality, it might be Lena who may be pushing the gun.


    He needed to call Stella. As a friend and someone that Kris looked up with respect, Collin does not really want to interfere with Kris and his love life. However, Kris was not normal. If Kris was not careful, he will eventually break Lena apart.


    Collin: We need to talk.


    Stella: Babe! I told u many times - don''t use that phrase


    Collin: Oh. Forgot.


    Stella warned Collin before to not use the phrase "We need to talk." in a relationship because it was a very stressful phrase. In most relationships, it could be the start of a breakup. It makes the situation sound like something bad was going to happen or something overwhelming was going to get exposed.


    We need to talk. Boom! Breakup, or move in with me, or let''s get married.


    We need to talk. KAPOW! I have cancer, I am pregnant, or I cheated on you.


    Yeah... a woman hearing that phrase will explode her mind the entire day with questions, wondering what the man will say. And the other way around too.


    Collin finished up his paperwork and task that Kris gave him. He delivered the rest of the work to his own workers.


    "Simon, here are the paperwork for tomorrow''s meeting. Make sure to get it compiled and cleaned up. "


    "Yes, Secretary Collin." The man, Simon, grabbed the files from Collin. "Uh... Can I also be invited to your stripper party?"


    Collin scowl, grabbed the files back and scroll them and hit Simon with it. He tossed it back on Simon''s desk and left. No wonder everyone was staring at him, it was because of what Kris said. What if Stella hears about this!!

 Chapter 201 - Knock knock

    After Lena came back to the private room, Tyler followed in a few minutes later. Everyone finished their meal and then they all head back to the Shen Company. Shen Mao and Lena both sent the new investors away.


    Lena head back to his father''s office with him. He sat at his desk and Lena sat down too.


    "I am very proud of you, Lena." Shen Mao spoke.


    "Thank you, father. I will keep trying my best to be a good daughter."


    "You will always be my good daughter no matter what." Shen Mao smiled. "So... you know Tyler Huang?"


    "I only met him once, at the party where he got into an accident."


    "Party? I have thought that you have forgotten how to have fun. You are either working or out helping others."


    "Really? I was thinking that I don''t work to often." Lena replied.


    Shen Mao laughed. "You''re still young. People your age should just be starting their career, dating, and traveling the world a bit before they settle down and work for the rest of their lives. Look at your mom and me, I didn''t take over the company until you were older."


    "Dad... Why did Uncle Mo not want to be CEO?"


    "Being a CEO is not an easy job. Being a leader is not an easy thing. You have to take care of everyone and everything, making sure that every decision made is correct. And if you make a wrong move, you are risking the lives of many employees and income of investments."


    Shen Mao stood up and looked out the window. "Everyone works hard so they can go home to their family. Some people can take the pressure, the workload, and enjoy the power that comes with the position. Others, they can''t. My brother, your uncle... although he has the brains, he does not have the mental capacity to take in all the hardship that came with the job. Being a CEO can be a very stressful job."


    Shen Mao turned around and walked to Lena. "After a stressful day, I can home to my wife and daughter. But for Shen Mo, he''s alone. We are the only family for him, so next time you see him, make sure to give him a lot of love too. Our family carries each other burdens so that we can all be happy together. No one should have to carry the pain alone."


    He kissed Lena on the head and patted her back. "You should go now. You have a few things to work on for the LUX project. Just don''t work too much."


    Lena stood up and hugged her dad before she left. Uncle Mo had a fiance, but she died. After that, he never looked for another and stayed single. He spent a good time being the temporary CEO for the Shen Company while Shen Mao spent a good few years with Lena. Afterward, Shen Mao become the official CEO and Uncle moved back to City Z. He took care of the farm and the production side of the business.


    There was the youngest of the brothers too, Shen Ma. Shen Ma and his family also live in City Z. For him, he and his family were more into the real estate business so he travels a lot.


    If Lena remembered correctly, the oldest son of Uncle Ma should be attending university in City A the following year. She did not get a chance to visit her uncles last time. She should get a chance to go a see them too. Most likely she would see everyone at the annual Shen Company party though.


    Lena got out and James was already outside to pick her up. She went back to SHYNE for the rest of the afternoon. Lena was not the head designer at SHYNE. She did not study designing. Lena had a talent and learned a lot through her grandmother and mom, but that was just a skill everyone woman in the Shen Family should possess.


    A skill and tradition that should be passed on, like playing the Erhu and embroidery. Of course, Lena has been designing more since she worked at SHYNE because of her natural talent and Shen Qian''s skill in designing. The program she created also made it very easy for her to design.


    The program was already used throughout the company for other designers, that''s why their progress for the LUX partnership project launch and SHYNE''s next season launch was more efficient.


    Lena would design about 1-2 designs. She would also be taking in more VIP and special projects from clients. But most of her time was spent maintaining the productivity and efficiency of the company. She checked and comfirm all the work and projects. She attended meetings from all department and make business meetings with clients.


    About twice a month, she would go check out their warehouses and workshops. Lena was also in charge of the production business with Project Crystal.


    Lena had several meetings with the design team. She gave them her card for tonight, telling the Head Designer that she should take her team out for lunch. They have all been working hard, even in her absence.


    They all thanked Lena. It was late and it was time for Lena to go home. As James drove, Lena thought back to Kris and his work. If her own workload was decent, and her dad''s work was hard already... she wondered how more difficult it is for Kris. He was also not a person who overworks too often too, just like her.


    ''I would need to cook him more nutritious meals.." Lena pondered and smiled. After she disconnected the call with him before, she texted them afterward and he just said "Ok."


    Lena will call him later. She thanked James for the ride and went inside the Shen mansion. She went and got changed before heading to the kitchen to help Aunt Mary cook dinner. Apparently, Henry will be joining them tonight too.


    Shen Mao picked up Shen Milli at work and they came home together. Henry arrived before them. Lena hugged everyone and they went to the dining room to eat.


    During dinner, Shen Mao said that he will be announcing Henry as Vice President at the annual party. Lena congratulated him.


    Henry also told them about his relationship with Elizabeth, his girlfriend, that he had been with for several months now. Lena''s parents were very supportive of him. She smiled... she wondered if they would like Kris too? Kris.. was... hmm... not very family-likable.


    Lena and Shen Milli cleaned up while Shen Mao and Henry went up to talk more about work. After that, Lena heads up to go take a shower. She took a quick shower. It was already dark outside when she was done. As she dried her hair, she noticed that they were getting longer and she was deciding if she wanted to cut it or leave it longer.


    Her phone dings and she looked at it. It was a text from Kris. She smiled and texted back.


    Lena: So.. how was your research?


    Kris: Would you be mad if I met str*ppers at a party?


    Lena: Not as long as I am the one stripping


    Kris: No str*ppers... got it


    Of crouse, Kris would not want to have Lena be stripping at the bachelor''s party. He would kill every single person there!


    Kris: How about pole dancers?


    Lena: I can dance on poles too *wink*


    Kris: I don''t think my research is going well -.-


    Lena: Y?


    Kris: Cuz... all the internet said these stuff


    Kris: But you said no


    Lena called him and he quickly picked up. She lied on her bed and talked to him.


    "Kris... a bachelor''s party is to celebrate the man getting married, not engage."


    "I know. I am a busy person, I need to plan ahead."


    "And you know he''s getting married right? He''s not getting a divorce... why all the women? Just have a bunch of you guys and drink. Go skinny dipping or something." Lena turned her body. "I seriously think if you do any of the others, the party would turn into a massacre rather than a party."


    Lena was referring to Kris hitting.. as in physically hitting all the women. They are paid to "entertain" people but they don''t know the bunch of weirdos they would be entertaining...


    "I miss you." Kris spoke, changing the topic.


    "I miss you too..." Lena grabbed her blanket and covered herself. "Have you made up with your mom yet?"


    "No. We are not arguing, I am just... being stubborn."


    "Well then, you should go home and make sure to buy her some flowers. It always works if you really mean it."


    "I bought flowers... but I can''t go home... uh.. cuz I''m here?"


    "Here?"


    Lena heard a soft knock on her window. She removed the blanket from her and hopped off her bed. ''OH MY GOSH, he better had not done what I think he did...''


    Lena opened her curtains, and there he was, on the balcony... with some flowers.


    Lena quickly opened her door and drag the man inside. "Kris! How did you-- I was just joking!" She silently scolded him.


    "I got you flowers. It always works, right?" Kris smiled.


    "You---" Lean shooked her head at how ridiculous and cute Kris was right now.


    Kris placed the flowers on the bed and pulled Lena in for a light kiss. He had been on the balcony for a while now. His cold lips brushed lightly against her warm lips. He could smell her sweet refreshing fragrance.


    "I missed you." He whispered and hugged her tightly.

 Chapter 202 - Bad boy (R-18?)

    Lena hugged him back. She could feel a slight coldness from his clothes. She released him and looked up at his handsome face. She smiled at him.


    "How long were you there for?"


    "Not that long." He replied.


    Lena picked up the flowers from her bed and smelled them. "They are beautiful." She went to her desk and removed her writing utensils from the cup. She put some water in the cup and placed the flowers in it.


    She will find a nice home for them tomorrow. When she turned around, Kris already took off his shoes and outer jacket. He laid on the bed, waiting for Lena.


    "Are you not going to leave?"


    "Well, are you kicking me out?" Kris questioned.


    Lena glared at him. They were in her room at the Shen Mansion, not at her own place. As much as it was risky with Kris being here, the devil inside her liked this kind of behavior. She ran to the bed and jumped on it, crashing into Kris. She cuddled herself with him.


    "Only for a bit okay?"


    Kris moved Lena''s body so he could hug her from behind. His back was to the windows and Lena''s was facing toward the door of her bedroom. "Just a bit."


    He nested his chin on her shoulder. Lena held his arms that softly wrapped around her waist. After a moment of silence, Lena spoke softly. "I met Tyler Huang today."


    "Is that right?" Kris replied while kissing Lena''s neck.


    "Kris...."


    "I am just checking to make sure you don''t smell like him." Kris tickled Lena and she giggled but covered her mouth with her hand.


    Kris toppled on over Lena and he stopped tickling her. His body was nestled between her legs. He removed the piece of hair that covered Lena''s face and kissed the hand that covered her mouth.


    She removed her hands. "I swear, Kris. Be quiet or I am kicking you out. My house is not soundproof."


    Kris smirked. "Why didn''t you tell me earlier? Heh.."


    He covered himself with the blanket and went down low.


    "Kris! I swear if you--- Ah!" She quickly covered her mouth with both of her hands as her legs squirm from the cold touch


    Kris licked her gunshot scar and trailed the wet kisses down lower until he was blocked by Lena''s pink panties. He smiled before he pressed his lips on her opening with the silk cloth blocking him. Lena lifted up the blanket and looked at the man''s mischevious eyes.


    He smiled at her and scooted out from the blanket and went back to stare at Lena''s face. "Miss. Shen... was it just me or for sure I felt you wet down there already. Are you getting turned on because we are in your room... while your parents are home?"


    Lena blushed and gently slapped his head. "Don''t read my thoughts out loud! It embarrassing!"


    Kris laughed. His girlfriend was so out of the world and not afraid to admit her thoughts openly. He pecked her lips and kissed her neck. "I needed to punish you for staring at another man."


    "I.. Ah.. didn''t stare at him."


    "You should have broken his arm though, sweetie. And gave him a kick in the sacks."


    "What? How did you know... were you spying on me?"


    Kris looked at Lena and smiled at her. "What are you talking about?" He winked and sarcastically replied. "I just magically stumbled upon the camera feed in the hallway that the gods sent my way."


    Lena giggled and peck him on the lips this time. "You are ridiculous! You are being such a bad boy. Running away from home, climbing up to your girlfriend''s room, and making up cheesy lies."


    "Lies? You know who''s not lying?" He swept one of his hand down below, slipping it under Lena''s silk panties and gave her a quick dip on her opening. "My girlfriend is not lying on how turned on she is right now... tsk.. bad girl."


    "Ah... Kris..." He slightly rub her opening, making her more moist down below.


    "Hmmm?" He smirked at her. "Do you want this baaaddd boy to stop?"


    Lena did not reply. She covered her mouth again so she would not make a sound. He was internally killing her and she does not want to deny him! She was being a bad girl... ironic because she told her dad today she will try her best to be a good daughter.


    Kris was enjoying this... he removed Lena''s hand from her mouth and kissed her. She moaned deeply from the sensation. In just a few days, Kris had turned to an expert while Lena had stayed the same... The student has become the master.


    Feeling that Lena was wet enough, he stuck a finger in and Lena opened her mouth to let out a small cry. He quickly took the opportunity to silence her beautiful cry in case they did get caught. His tongue tangled with hers.


    He wiggled his finger inside of her and made sure she was also feeling it perfectly well up there as well. After he felt that Lena was running out of breath before him, he removed his finger and stopped kissing her. He sucked on the finger that was inside her and looked at her breathless face.


    "So... tell me. Was this on your bucket list?" Kris asked.


    "No." Lena breathed in and out. "But there was one for doing it in my parent''s car -- Oh!" Lena covered her mouth. She said something she was not supposed to share.


    "Oh, what?" Kris''s eyes widened. "You said the list did not exist. I am more curious now."


    "It doesn''t exist I swear!" Lena screeched silently.


    "Mhmm. Yep... my girlfriend is lying now. What should her next punishment be, hmm?" Kris patted Lena''s cheek before diving back down under the blanket.


    Kris slid off her underwear down her legs, but left it on one leg, not completely out of the way. He kissed from her ankle up to her thighs.


    "Kris... is this what you researched on instead?"


    "I don''t know what you are talking about. Let''s just say... researching about how to get str*ippers to a party can lead you to very informative sites."


    "Kris... My parents are not even ---Ahh....mhnnn." Asleep.. that was what Lena was about to say but he kissed her wet opening and licked it.


    Lena covered her mouth again with one hand but put the other on Kris''s head... as he continued to give her sweet pleasures. She could not believe that she was legitly doing this... right now. It felt so amazing though!


    Kris was about to stick his tongue inside her but the knock on the door both alerted them. Lena instinctively closed her legs and hit Kris in the face.


    "Lena? Are you asleep yet?" It was her mom.


    "Oh my gosh!" Lena quickly got up and scruffle the blanket to hide Kris somewhere.


    Her heart was racing from the moment of pleasures and the situation right now. She quickly kicked Kris off the bed toward the opposite side of the door. Her mom would not be able to see Kris as long as he was down on th floor.


    "Stay!" Lena commanded.


    Kris lay low but just smiled at Lena.


    "Not asleep yet! I''ll open the door!" She screamed back.


    She started walking but noticed her underwear that was tangled on one of her legs. She quickly took it off and threw it at Kris. She motioned her hand across her throat, signaling that she will kill Kris if he talked.


    She went to open the door and pretended to be as normal as she can be. "Hi.."


    Shen Milli tilted her head to look inside Lena''s dark bedroom but Lena also tilted her head. "Did you need something, mom?"


    Shen Milli blinked at looked at Lena. "Were you on the phone?"


    "No." Lena shook her head. "I was just watching some dramas."


    "Henry already left, but he gave me this. He said it''s for you."


    Lena grabbed the item from her mom. "Tickets?"


    "Yeah. He said Elizabeth was done with her lastest movie and you should go to the premier. He gave you two tickets so you can invite Hazel to go with you."


    "Ok. Is that all?"


    "Yeah. Just don''t stay up too late watching your dramas. You need to get a real man, not those fake ones."


    "I know." Lena cleared her throat. "Goodnight, ma!"


    "Mhm.."


    Lena smiled and closed the door. She listened to the door to make sure her mom left before locking it. She walked back to check on Kris.


    She walked back to see the man twirling her silk underwear on his finger, the other arm planted on the ground, holding his head.


    "I like your mom. You should get a real man." Kris got up quickly and pulled Lena down onto the floor with him. "When do you think they will go to sleep?"


    "Why?!"


    "Do you know where they keep their car keys?"


    "Kris!"


    "What? I was being nice... trying to complete my girlfriend''s bucket list."


    "I don''t have a bucket list!" Lena got off the ground and sat up.


    "We''ll make it my bucket list then."


    "What''s on yours then?" Lena asked.


    "Hmmm." Kris got up. He carried Lena back onto the bed. He tossed her underwear onto the floor. "Let me think."


    Kris went to grab a wet and dry towel and wipe down Lena''s lower area as he thought about it."How about the elevator?"


    "Ew no!"


    He tossed the towels onto the floor and crawled back to tightly hug Lena, joining her on the bed. "Then... just let me stay here until you sleep."


    Lena looked at him. "Just until then... but no more other stuff."


    "I promise." Kris smiled and cuddle in closer to Lena, taking in her heavenly woman scent.


    Lena closed her eyes and tried to sleep but her mind kept worrying about what if her parents came back again... she locked the door but there was still that small chance. Before she knows it, she was already sleeping against Kris'' warmth and security.

 Chapter 203 - Tornado

    Kris stared at Lena as she slept soundlessly. She was his wild woman. He only stayed for an hour after Lena slept before sneaking back out. The Shen Mansion does not high security and Kris does not like it one bit. He''ll need to do something about that soon if Lena was going to continue to stay here every so often.


    He climbed over the wall and walked back to his car that he parked out of the way so it would not look suspicious. He entered his car but stared at Lena''s window from afar. For a long time, he had wondered and craved the love of a woman.


    In the past, it would be a lie that he never felt jealous of other people''s life. His life originally looked at everyone as items. Items that are there for you to use or for you to kill.


    After his journey to recover, he had discovered a new world and sight of how things were. He learned to laugh with people and understand that the world was not all about an ongoing battle that you need to always win win win.


    People think that because he was at the top, he had everything. Because he was fearsome, he had no fears. That because the was raised with blood, his future is blood.


    But that was not it. He was still as human as anyone else. Not normal, but still human. He gets envious of the relationship Collin has with Stella. How carefree Lay was as he continued to easily explore his sexual pleasures. The way the genius Tye worked but never fall down to others about his sexual preference. Even Keso found his long lost mother, whom they have reconnected with.


    And there was Hugh, a true person who truly do not fear anything. A person who masked the face of a gentleman, but deep down, only he and Kris know what a terrifying man Hugh was.


    Now, Kris has Lena. A dream that he had only thought of, but never assumed of it actually happening. She came crashing to him like a tornado. You can never guess where she was going to hit you next. She just grabs you, takes you for an epic ride, and tosses you out with an abundance of emotions to go through that makes you go crazy.


    He wants to do everything that he could ever dream of with her. Give her the happiness and love that he had bottled inside of him, telling him that no such thing existed. But releasing the feeling of romantic love from deep inside of him will also release other demons that he had buried too.


    To him, Lena was brittle and fragile. He was a man whose hands are stained with blood, a brain nurtured with torture and rough love. How was he supposed to love her while he was battling between being free and controlled at the same time?


    Kris started his car and left. He needed his friends....


    -----


    Lena woke up with the beeping of her alarm. She slowly got up and rubbed her eyes, but she suddenly spotted her mom standing by her bed.


    "Mom!" Lena placed a hand over her heart. She quickly looked around and noticed that Kris was gone already. She relaxed just a bit.


    "Of course I am your mom, who did you think I was?" Shen Milli replied.


    "Why are you in my room?"


    "I knocked on your door several times and you did not hear. I thought something bad might had happened so I unlocked your door."


    "Ah..." Lena cleared her throat. She glanced over the bedside to see if her underwear was still lying on the ground. But it seems like Kris cleaned up before he left.


    "Why? Looked like you are so scared." Shen Milli pointed out.


    "No. It was just you that scared me. I was watching something scary last night."


    "Mhm..." Shen Milli turned around. "Well, you should get up and get ready. I already made breakfast. Your dad and I are leaving first. And you should stop locking your door too much in case something does happen and I can''t get to you in time."


    "Yes, Mom."


    Shen Milli left and Lena quickly got up. She grabbed her phone and went to use the toilet. She lifted her nightgown up and sat on the toilet. She was not wearing anything so it was easy for her. She peed and texted Kris at the same time.


    Lena: When did you leave?


    Kris: After you slept


    Lena: Did you clean up? My mom was here


    Kris: No... I stole them with me


    Lena: .....


    Lena got up and took a morning shower. She cleaned and got ready for her morning before heading down to go eat breakfast.


    James picked her up and she left to go to work. She did not have many meetings today so she decided to check up on all the departments.


    Lena told Kris that he needed to have a good compromising talk with his mother about whatever they are going on about. She said that he was not allowed to see her until he got that business done. So as they planned, Lena has her meeting with Stella today. She would see Kris tomorrow instead.


    Lena delivered personally the invitations to the Shen company party to several department heads and chosen workers. By 3:30, she and James left to go her appointment.


    As usually, she sat outside the office. Stella usually has an appointment with a young man before her. After a few minutes, Stella opened the door and greeted Lena. Lena walked inside the room.


    Lena sat down on the sofa and Stella sat down on her usually chair too. Lena quickly spotted the big shunt ring on Stella''s hand.


    "So he finally asked you." Lena spoke.


    "Yes." Stella replied, holding out her hand. "Are you busy after this? I was wondering we can go have a small drink after your session."


    "I am fine with that."


    "Good." Stella adjusted her seat. "Let''s get it started then."


    Lena did not always want her sessions to be on her love life. So for today, she expressed something else.


    "My parents..." Lena did not know how to start. "They have been hiding something from me for a long time now."


    Lena held her hands to give her the courage to speak about it. "I stumbled upon the truth a few years ago, but never confronted them about it. I felt like it was not a big thing... that I would not be bothered by it... but I feel like it does bother me."


    "The truth? Or your parents not telling you about it." Stella questioned.


    "I think it is more about my parents not telling me about it. At first, I thought that maybe it was to protect me? But maybe it was to protect them? I mean, I have let it go but the thought would pass my mind every so often."


    "Do you have a good relationship with your parents?"


    "I do."


    "Have you ever considered confronting them? Parents are stronger than what most people would assume."


    Stella and Lena talked more about the situation. After a long session, Lena had concluded that she really should just talk to her parent about it. Stella suggested that if she was not comfortable with both, she should choose one parent that makes her feel more conformable over the other when confronting them about the situation.


    After the session ended, they both just walk to a nearby bar and had a small drink. James came along but distanced himself just to make sure both women were fine.


    Stella knew that Lena was an expensive wine drinker so she did not hold her money down. Lena took a sip of the drink and looked at Stella.


    "So what is it that you wanted to tell me?" Lena asked.

 Chapter 204 - Cheers

    "Am I that obvious? I am not good at keeping a poker face." Stella laughed.


    But she stopped and hold Lena''s hand. "I know we are not fairly close enough for me to say this, but my FIANCE has pleaded me. I don''t want you to think that we are forcing you or Kris but... they boys really do worry as much as they are happy. They thought that I, being a woman, was a better choice to approach you with this."


    "I understand." Lena replied. If Hazel found out who she was dating, she would also do the same thing but with more b*tchy girl fit.


    "I personally would never be able to handle someone like Kris." Stella stated and Lena laughed. "But I am not you and you are not me." They both got serious again. "Kris... as you know... had it difficult than most. He is a person in recovery. And you have seen first hand that he can relapse or go out of his therapy like any other people who are going through rehab or recovery.


    I know you both had just started but I can see that you both are really in love. You will have it as rough as Kris when things go bad. Be patient with him and don''t force him to tell you things that he is not ready to."


    Lena nodded her head and Stella continued. "Sometimes he will be angry, the next day he will be happy. But those are all part of him. His life is like reversed. His childhood was him being an adult and his young adulthood is him being a kid. He is still in self-discovery and maybe you too.


    The boys are screaming that they will hunt you down if you break up with Kris but I know that is all talk. You should not let others define how you date but you should also not turn a blind eye to advice. You can pick and choose what works for you.


    I just want to tell you, from me, not the boys, that if you ever feel like it is too hard on you, you can come to talk to me about it. As your therapist or just someone to chat with."


    "Thank you." Lena replied. "I know it was going to be tough already... but I was not going to let the bad what ifs overcome the good what ifs..."


    "That''s good. But don''t also pretend that you are happy or in love when you are not."


    "I know. I have seen how much pretending or being blind living in your own fantasy can be." Lena thought back to her young self and even how Andy was with Eva.


    The best thing was being true to yourself. Lena promised that she will help him hug his mother. Now as someone important in his life, Lena knew that she also needed to be a support for him. She will be his emotional support the way he is her physical support. They are a pair, matched from heaven, to compliment and be stronger as two than one.


    "Cheers!" Stella raised her glass to Lena.


    "Cheers!"


    They both only drink a small amount. James dropped off Stella. Lena made sure to text Collin that they went drinking in case he wanted to check up on his fiance. Stella was not a strong drinker.


    James dropped off Lena at her apartment. Lena went inside and took a shower. She made herself dinner before texting Kris again.


    Kris left work early today to go back to the Li mansion. His mother was out today to go shopping with some of her friends. Lena told him to be on good terms with his mother so he decided to rebake her a cake that he failed last time.


    The cooks were carefully staring at Kris the entire time. They were scared that he was going to poison the Madam. But then it felt like Kris knew what he was doing but they were scared he was going to burn the kitchen.


    Kris finally kicked everyone from the kitchen so he can finish. He got a text from Lena and his heart calmed down. She was the stress release he needed right now.


    He sent her a picture of the cake and she replied with a thumbs up. He smiled. Kris let the cake cool down and frost it before heading upstairs. He told the cook to come back to the kitchen to cook dinner.


    Madam Li came home later and they both had their dinner. It was mostly silent until when Kris finished eating.


    "I will go see grandpa with you."


    Madam Li looked up at Kris. "I feel like there is a but coming with that..."


    She knew Kris would never do this so willingly unless there was something that he would benefit from it. Kris was a good son. He had always tried his best to protect and please her. One of the few things they would not see eye to eye about was his grandpa, getting married, and his habit of overkill.


    "But! We would go see them at the end of the month, not this weekend."


    Madam Li raised her brow. "That''s it? Nothing else?" She was suspicious. He only pushed the date further... was she thinking too much?


    "That''s it." Kris replied and nodded at the chef. The chef went to the kitchen and brought out a slice of cake. "I made that. Since the last time I failed, I promised to make it again so.. yeah."


    Madam Li smiled and took a bite of the cake. "It''s sweet. I am still waiting for my hug though." She took another bite.


    Kris cleared his throat. "Would it count if my kid hugged you instead?"


    Madam Li suddenly choked on the piece of cake she was eating. Kris instinctively got up and grabbed her glass of water. Without knowing, he patted her back as he raised the glass of water to her mouth so she can drink it.


    She took a big drink of water but then suddenly looked at her son, who was still patting her back, full of concern. "Kris.."


    Kris finally snapped out and realized what he was doing. He quickly stopped patting her and took a step back away from her.


    Madam Li suddenly stood up. "What are you all standing there for! Go call the doctor!"


    "Ah yes, Madam!" Several workers rushed out to go call Doctor Tye.


    There have been a few times where Kris slipped and the workers would immediately have Doctor Tye on speed dial. But somehow today, the dinner scene was very touching that they had forgotten about the condition of their young master.


    Madam Li looked at Kris, semi panicking. "Are you okay? Do you need a chair? You! Bring him a chair, can''t you see he is sick!"


    "Ma.." Kris spoke but Madam Li was breathing really hard.


    She did not like it when she saw Kris in pain. "Why did you do that? I am old but not too old to choke!"


    "MA!" Kris shouted when one of the workers dragged a chair to Kris. Madam Li finally looked at him. "I. Am. Fine."


    "How can you be fine! You''re having trouble breathing!"


    "You''re having trouble breathing...not me."


    "No, I am not. You--" She finally paused and gave Kris a good look.


    He was right, he was perfectly fine. He was standing there, he was breathing normally and there was no tremors or sudden rage from him. She stopped her heavy breathing. She turned her head sideways several times to give Kris a rundown look.


    "Impossible..." Madam Li was still very much in shock.


    Kris was surprised too. He raised his hand up to his mother''s face but didn''t touch her. Madam Li looked at him... her eyes got teary. She slowly held up her hand too and gently grabbed his. It was the longest 10 seconds of their lives. Madam Li was waiting to see if Kris would have a reaction but he did not.


    Madam Li grabbed his hand with both of hers and brought it to her cheeks. She burst into happy tears.


    Kris was still controlling his breathing... big breath in and a big breath out. He slowly walked closer to his mom and gave her a hug. She cried louder when she felt Kris big arms around her and she hugged her son back. The workers were silently crying too!


    It has been years since they have worked in the Li mansion and the pair of mother and son could finally hug each other.


    The hug did not last long. Kris released his mom and stepped back. Madam Li wiped her tears. Kris shook his hands out and smiled. He could feel a small tingle of uncomfortableness and panic tremors building up from his body. But his heart was too thrilled!


    "Are you okay?" Madam Li smiled.


    "Hahaha!" Kris was happy.


    Madam Li laughed too and she put up her hand to pat his cheeks but Kris stepped back.


    "Sorry, I''ll let you cool down." Madam Li could tell that even though they finally hugged, Kris could still experience some symptoms that were just more delayed.


    "No worry, mom." Kris turned around. "I am going out!" He ran out of the dining room.


    Madam Li yelled back at him. "Where are you going out this late?! Are you not going to wait for the doctor! We should celebrate!" She chased him outside to see him quickly got into his car.


    "Yes!" Kris yelled back. He closed his door and drove out the driveway.


    "Yes?" Madam Li scoffed! "He is supposed to celebrate with me? Who the HELL is more worthy for him to celebrate with than ME!"


    One of the workers that went to call Doctor Tye walked up to Madam Li. "Do you still want the doctor to come?"


    Madam Li ignored the worker and was still angry that his son left her alone during this monumental moment.


    "Madam, maybe Young Master Li is going to celebrate with his kid''s mother."


    Madam Li turned around and scolded the worker. "What kid! What mother! I am his mother, he is my kid!"


    Her chest was puffing with rage again. Then she remembered the statement that Kris said which started all of this...


    --> "Would it count if my kid hugged you instead?"

 Chapter 205 - Best thing

    Kris was so happy. He would like a child jumping up and down. He definitely would hug his mother again, but he knew that he shouldn''t push himself too much. One was all he ever needed.


    He needed to celebrate and embrace someone, and that someone was Lena. He stepped on the gas and drove to her apartment. He did not bother to park his car properly. He stopped outside the apartment building driveway and parked his car there.


    He quickly hit the normal elevator button, and luck was with him today because the elevator door opened then.


    Lena was already home. She spilled some juice all over herself so she hopped back to take a quick shower. It was supposed to be quick but she kept singing in the shower so she went for a nice bubble bath instead. She knew her voice was not the best, but if she practiced a lot, then it would get better.


    People say the echo in the bathroom also make your voice sound nicer. Her body sank in the bathtub and she was playing with the bubbles.


    "Boy with love!! Oh my my my, Oh my my my..I''ve waited all my life." She grabbed a batch of bubble on her hand and blew on it.


    She was going to sing some more but her doorbell disrupted her beauty time. Lena sat up in the tub. She was not expecting any visitors today.


    "Ugh..." She slowly got out and head to the shower so she can rinse the bubbles off her body. She just got in and turned on the shower when the doorbell rung again. She ignored it again as she washed her body.


    *DING DONG, DING DONG, DING DONG*


    "Oh My GOSH! I swear I can''t get a break. I am coming... gosh!" Lena turned off the shower. She quickly wrapped her body with a towel and ran out, making sure not to trip and die while she was at it.


    *DING DONG, DING DONG, DING DONG*


    Lena held her towel up because it was semi-loose when she ran. She slammed her door opened. "WHAT!"


    Kris smiled at his sweet tigress. He instantly ran to her and picked her. Lena heard the loudest and cheerful laugh Kris had ever made. Her legs were up in the air and he spun her around.


    "AHAHAHAHA!" Kris was over-excited. "You are the best!" He gave her peck on her lips and spun her around again.


    "I am?" Lena still had a hand tightly on her towel that definitely came loose when Kris picked her up. "I think my boyfriend got possessed!"


    Kris looked at Lena who was completely confused. His grin got bigger and he kissed Lena on the lips, cheeks, nose, forehead.


    "You are the best!" He smiled at her and repeated his kissing cycle.


    ''What kind of drug did he take?!'' Lena was somewhat scared of this weird man who was hugging her and sending her tons of kisses. She released her hold on her tower and put her hand over his mouth and pushed his face away from her.


    "You''re scaring me..." Lena spoke.


    Kris stopped and let Lena down. She quickly put her hand back on her towel and secured it tight around her again when her feet were on the ground.


    "I..." Kris looked at Lena. "I... finally hugged my mom."


    Lena''s eye widened. "Really?!"


    Kris nodded.


    "Oh my gosh!" Lena put both hands over her mouth in shock! "AHHHH!" This time she was the one who jumped on Kris. She wrapped her legs on him and gave him pecks of kisses on his face.


    Kris held her weight and was happy that Lena was happy with him. "Give me a kiss."


    "Okay." Lena held his cheeks and kissed him softly. She tapped her lips on his, just brushing their lips together.


    Lena unwrapped her legs around him and Kris let her down. "Uh.. I will go get dress quick okay?"


    Lena ran to her room to quickly change. Kris smiled at her. He did not notice that she was just in a towel and her hair was dripping wet. He closed the door and walked to sit on her sofa.


    Lena grabbed her nightgown and tossed in pair of underwear. She opened the door and Kris was sitting on the sofa, patiently waiting for her.


    When he spotted her, he held out his hand to her. Lena took it and sat next to him. She patted her lap and Kris smiled. He bent down and put his head on her lap and bent his legs because it would go over the sofa even though the sofa was long.


    Lena took the towel out of her hair and started drying her hair. "So.. tell me what happened?"


    Kris closed his eyes as he relaxed on Lena. "I don''t know... It was not the first time that I accidentally touched her." He opened his eyes again and looked at the beautiful lady by him. "She was choking on the cake that I made for her... I don''t even remember what I said that made her not pay attention to her eating."


    Lena smiled at Kris, who was sweetly looking at her. She tossed the towel aside. She placed left hand on his head and played with his hair. "And then?"


    "I stood up and ran to her, giving her a pat on the back to help her. I did not even know and I did not even care. When I realized what I did, my mother panicked before me." Kris grabbed Lena''s hand that was caressing his hair and kissed it. "I was not angry, I was not panicking. I was fine... and at the moment, I wanted to hug her. So we did."


    Kris kissed her hand again and held it tightly against his face. "Lena... I finally hugged my mom, and it''s because you''re here. You''re the best thing that ever came into my life."


    Lena bent down and kissed his forehead. "I am proud of you, Kris."


    Kris got off her lap and sat next to her. "You should give me a gift."


    "A gift?" At that moment, her phone rang. "Hold on, think about what you want, okay?"


    Lena stood up and went to her room where her phone was and picked up the phone. "Hello?"


    "Lena? Is Kris with you?"


    Lena walked back out to the living room and stared at the man still sitting on the sofa. "Yeah."


    Tye sighed over the phone. "I am coming over."


    "Okay." Lena looked at Kris who was waving his hand for Lena to give him the phone. She gave him the phone.


    "Tye?" Kris spoke.


    "I am coming over."


    "I don''t need you to come over. I am fine."


    "I should still check you up anyways."


    "Why waste time? You''re not as good as my Lena who cured me." Kris replied.


    Lena coughed as she stared at the shameless man sitting down on the sofa. He smiled up to her and grabbed her hand. He pulled her down and hugged her with one hand.


    "You!" Tye had nothing more to say... in all honestly.. he would only make sure that Kris was breathing fine and his heart rate was okay. If he does relapse, it was nothing even the genius doctor can predict.


    "Fine. What about Madam Li?" Tye asked.


    "I am celebrating, won''t come home tonight." Kris hung up the call.


    "KRISS!!!" Tye yelled at the phone but the call already ended. ''F*CK!'' He turned around and smiled at Madam Li.


    "What did he say? Where is he?" Madam Li asked.


    "Uh.. He.. he went back to his penthouse. He is fine, Madam Li. But I will make sure Keso is with him 24/7 the next few weeks in case he relapse."


    Madam Li sighed. "I am so happy and so scared at the same time. Thank you, Dr. Tye."


    "I am happy for you, Madam Li. This is a great improvement for you and your son. Since I am not needed anymore, I will take my leave." Tye stood up.


    "Oh, one more thing, Dr. Tye."


    Tye turned back and looked at Madam Li. "Yes?"


    "Kris will be visiting the main mansion soon. I don''t know if... with the event of today and if he will or will not relapse.. if it was good for him to go. It will bring extra stress to him. I don''t want that."


    "Hmmm..." Tye sat back down on the chair. "I think I may have a solution."


    Tye smiled and told Madam Li what he was thinking of.

 Chapter 206 - Bold

    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Proceed with slight caution... possible overload of... things....


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    Kris placed Lena''s phone on the glass table and hugged her with both of his arms.


    "So.. have you thought of your gift?" Lena asked him.


    "I want... I want us to take a step forward in our relationship." Kris softly replied.


    "Step forward?" Lena pulled her face a bit away from Kris so she could get a good look at him. Lena put her two index finger together and tap them. "Like... that?"


    Kris looked at her finger then back at her cute face. "What is that?"


    "It means we... you know?" Lena spoke. But if Kris did not know what that means then maybe... he was talking about something else. "Never mind... what do you mean by next step?"


    "I want you to get to know me better." Kris answered. He grabbed Lena''s hand and placed it on top of his beating heart. "Because... I might be still able to let you go now if you don''t like what you see about me... but later on, I don''t know if I''ll let you leave then. By then, I would be the monster that you would fear for the rest of your life but cannot run away from."


    Lena placed her free hand on his cheeks and softly stroke it. "Ok." Lena replied immediately.


    She stopped touching his face and used both of her hands and grabbed Kris'' hand to hold them. "But I will tell you right now... that it would be a lie to say that I don''t fear you at all."


    Kris knew it already. Lena would not be his Lena if she was unfearful of anything. Their first meeting was not golden. He had choked her, slapped her, and did so many other horrible things to her before. She had seen him beat people to death and him at his weakest. But through all of that, she was still here, with him, and smiling.


    Lena squeezed his hands and looked directly at his eyes. "But my love for you will always be greater than my fear for you. Every time that I am with you, my love for you grow more as my fear for you fade into the shadows."


    She kissed him gently on his lips and smiled. "So Kris Li, show me your demons. I will still love you. I love your past, your present, and your future. No matter what, just let me love you. If you ever dare deny my love for you, it would be me who would be the monster you would fear for the rest of your life, and you would not be able to get away from me."


    Kris laughed but he hugged Lena tightly. "Don''t say I didn''t warn you."


    Lena laughed with him. He was using her exact words against her.


    Kris laid back on the sofa and let Lena settled on top of him, her head resting on his chest. He caressed her head.


    "Clear your schedule for this weekend. We will go out then." Kris spoke.


    "Okay." Lena replied. "Are you going to give me a hint? Or will it be a surprise like last time?"


    "Hmm... Maybe when I have you cuffed to my car so you can''t back out."


    Lena lifted up her head and body so she was looking at the Kris... who was definitely still happy today. "Or... you can cuff me right now." She winked at him as a joke.


    "I like that idea too!" Kris lifted Lena off his body and carried her.


    "Ey! I was just joking, I have no cuffs!" Lena held his shoulder so she would not wall.


    "It''s ok. I have some." He grinned widely at her.


    "What? When did you have that? Why am I only hearing about those now?"


    Kris walked towards the door to exit her apartment. "Becuase if you did, then we would never leave this building. We would not want my mother at my door again, right? With you wearing no bras again..."


    "AH!! That was an accident before. This is real now!"


    Kris closed Lena''s door, it autolocking itself. He walked up to the elevator and pressed the up button.


    "So you like us getting caught?" Kris teased her some more. "We can go to your house or my house. Both of our parents would be home right?"


    Kris entered the elevator and pressed the top floor. Lena pouted at him and squeezed his cheeks together. "You talk too much!"


    Kris laughed. "You''re not denying that you like it. Or... we can go with the bucket list." He slowly let Lena down and pushed her to the corner of the elevator room. "The e-le-va-tor." He spoke with a deep husky voice at Lena.


    Lena realized that they were in the elevator and Kris was enjoying his tease with her. Kris backed away and took off his shirt.


    "You''re really doing it!" Lena was very much surprised how bold Kris has become due to her dirty mind.


    He nodded and walked closer to Lena. He lifted her but so she was holding onto the elevator rails and her butt was just slightly sitting on it. When Lena was stable, he put his hands on her face and slowly kissed her. She wrapped her legs on his waist as he sucked on her both of her lips before diving in very deep.


    He stuck his tongue inside her mouth and she gracefully accepted his kiss. Lena wanted to touch his bare skin but she was holding onto the rail. He has been hungrier and more aggressive each time they go for a deep kiss. He licked and twirled his tongue inside her mouth and danced away with her.


    He let Lena breathe for half a second before tasting her again. He tasted the inside of her saliva and nubbed on her lips. After another long session of a deep sensational kiss, he released her lips and trailed the rest of his kissed down her neck.


    Lena finally used one hand and grabbed Kris hair as he sucked on her neck, giving her love marks. She was about to slightly moan when the elevator door opened. She pulled Kris'' hair from the panic. Kris let Lena down and turned around.


    He smiled at the couple looking at them in shock. "Sorry... elevator''s taken." Kris pushed the close button and turned back to look at Lena. "Where were we?"


    Lena''s eye was widened and her hands were on her flushed red cheeks from the passionate make-out session and from embarrassment.


    "Lena... why are you always so shy later on?" Kris smirked at her.


    "Because!" Lena released her hands on her face. "I realized that my mind is dirty but I don''t have the gut to actually do all of them!" She admitted. Thinking, fantasizing, and actually doing it are different things.


    Kris gave Lena a quick peck on her lips and held her hands. "It''s ok. Your boyfriend is very bold. Just tell me what you think about and I will do them for you."


    "I---" Lena looked at his serious face. She turned another darker of shade as he stared at her. "I don''t like the elevator.... Can we go to your pool?" She softly muttered under her breath but Kris caught every word she said.


    He picked her up as the elevator door open. "Very well, my lady." He walked toward his penthouse door.


    -- Extra tiny scene


    "WIFEY! SEE I TOLD YOU! I WILL GET A RAISE SOON AT WORK!" The man looked at his wife who was standing next to him in front of the elevators that just opened and closed on them.


    "HUSBAND! WHY YOU NEVER TOLD ME YOUR BOSS WAS SO HOT AND HE LIVES HERE?!


    "AHH???!!!"


    "I am just kidding hubby. You are so chubby and I like that." The wife pinched the man''s cheeks.


    They both entered the next elevator that came up to them.


    The husband cleared his throat. "You think... it''s hot in here?"


    "Hubby... don''t even think about it until you get that raise, hmm?" The wife twisted the man''s ear.

 Chapter 207 - Bring your cuffs

    Kris let Lena down as he carried her to the rooftop.


    "Wait there." He said.


    Kris walked and pressed a button so the covering of the pool opened, displaying the clean water of the pool. Lena smiled and ran toward the pool.


    "CANNONBALL!" And plopped. She went down to the deep side of the pool.


    Her head popped out and she trod on the water. "Are you going to join me?"


    "Soon." He smiled at her before turning around. He left to go back down to his house as Lena hopped swam to the ledge to wait for him.


    A few minutes later, he came up with a bottle of wine and two glasses. "Just one bottle to celebrate."


    He popped the bottle and poured them to the glasses. He gave one for Lena to sip before taking it back and placing both of theirs on the table.


    "Do you want me to just join you like this?" Kris was referring to their uncomfortable clothes that were not meant for swimming.


    "Yeah..." Lena laughed. "Look at my gown, you can see my underwear."


    Her nightgown was floating on top of the water and not covering her at all. It was a dress after all. Kris slid down the ledge and join Lena in the pool. Lena swam to him and held his hand. He dragged him to the middle of the pool.


    "I thought we were going to continue off where we left off in the elevator?" Kris curiously asked.


    "We are celebrating. We should do something fun!"


    "Ok... like?"


    "I want to know if you can really breathe longer if you kiss underwater."


    Kris had utterly no word to describe the mind of Lena. He burst into a small laugh and then he dived his head underwater. He pulled Lena''s leg for her to join him. She dived in with him. She only stayed for 15 seconds before kicking her leg and going back up for a breath.


    She only took a quick breath before Kris pulled her down underwater again. He immediately kissed her. It only lasted for a few seconds and Lena went back up for a breath of air. She was cough and breathing really hard.


    Kris popped out 5 seconds later and looked at his exhausted Lena and laughed. "You''re so cute."


    "It''s not funny. It''s horrible! It doesn''t work!"


    "It does." Kris swam close to Lena. "You were thinking too much about the kiss and not breathing. Let''s try again."


    Kris dived back down. Lena took a deep breath and went down with him. She countdown on her fingers for 10 seconds before they can kiss. After that, she grabbed Kris and they kissed. This time, she focused on the breathing and they lasted for a while more. But she knew it was ineffective.


    She and Kris went back up together and she took a deep breath of fresh air. "Phew! How can you breathe so long?" Lena asked.


    "I was meant to breath longer so I can save you."


    "Aw... C''mere!" Lena leaned in and gave Kris a smooch on his lips. She swam back to the ledge and hop out, her nightgown completely soaked.


    She walked up to the table and grabbed the bottle of wine. She took a drink and then walked to the stairs to go back down to the main house.


    "Where are you going?" Kris was left alone in the pool. "You said you wanted the pool!! You lied to me..."


    "Yes, I did." Lena turned around and look at Kris. "So you can punish me in bed instead." She turned back and slowly walked down the stairs, waving her bottle of wine. "Make sure bring your cuffs and you better be naked before you enter the room."


    Lena ran down and went to a random room. She was definitely not going to do it on his uncomfortable bed. She placed the bottle on the nightstand. She took off all of her wet clothes and got into the bed, covering herself in the blanket.


    Kris smiled and quickly got off. He went down the stairs and took off his pants and completely naked himself before his bedroom doors.


    "Lena?"


    She was not there. "Tsk... how old is she to be playing hide and seek?" Kris laughed and went to open the next door.


    She was not there too. Lena must be in the third bedroom. It was empty before but he finally furnished it after the "no bra" incident.


    He opened the door and he saw Lena cuddled up in the blanket, covering her entirely. Lena heard the door open and she stuck out her head.


    "Hello, Handsome." Lena whistled at him.


    "Hello, Sexy. I would like an order of two large melons today." He teased her and then hopped into the bed. He flipped open the blanket and crawled in with her.


    He kissed her from her ankle up until he met her pretty face.


    "Did you bring your cuffs?" Lena asked.


    Kris touched her face. "We can use cuffs on a different day than we actually do it."


    "Okay." Lena was happy that none of them were rushing ahead of one another. She covered them with the blanket. "Who first?"


    "Of course it''s you... you needed to be punished." Kris tickled Lena and then he positioned himself on top of her. "You ready?"


    Lena wrapped her arms around him. "Yessem!"


    They both tangled in bed throughout the evening. But they did not go for long since both of them had to work the next day. They cleaned themselves before hopping to go sleep on Kris'' bed. The bed was softer because Lena was sleeping with Kris. Only with him by her side, everything was happier, brighter, and more comfortable.


    Lena was not going to run away from all the things that Kris will show her. She will not run away from their future. Blood or nothing, demons or not, monster or human, she was going to battle the heavens to be with him. She had done it before, one more time won''t kill her that easily.


    Kris hugged her as they close their eyes on the bed. Lena opened her eyes. "Kris?"


    "Hmmm?"


    "You should stay home with your mom until the weekend."


    "What about tomorrow?" Kris asked. They originally made plans to meet and hang out tomorrow.


    "We have the rest of our lives together. You ditched your mom to come to celebrate with me... you should stay home with her and try to see if you can hug her more." Lena turned her body around so she was facing Kris. "I think you will be fine... as long as I am here."


    "Yes, my lady." Kris kissed Lena on the forehead and they both closed their eyes.


    Kris hoped that Lena will continue to smile when she learned all about him. He can''t show her everything about himself at one time, but he will slowly show her everything that he is. The good, bad, and ugly.

 Chapter 208 - I wont let Kris go

    The next morning, both Kris and Lena woke up early to get ready to go to work. Lena did not have any clothes so Kris got dressed first so he can go down to Lena''s apartment and get her some clothes.


    "Kris.." Lena opened his bedroom door to come out. She was currently just wearing one of Kris'' long white dress shirt. She had one hand on the door frame and stared at Kris as he put his shoes on.


    "Hmm?" He looked up to her.


    "I realized... we didn''t even bring my keys when we left my apartment. I can call James, he has a key to my apartment."


    Kris stared at Lena without blinking. Why does the sound of another man having keys to Lena''s apartment before he sounds very wrong? He sighed. Of course, James should have one though, in any case, something bad happens to Lena.


    He got up and walked to Lena. "What other men have keys to your house?"


    Lena just realized that Kris does not have a key to her apartment. But... they were just starting thought right? Would it be too fast? Nah... they were already sticking to each other a lot already.


    "Hmm... Now that I think about it, I have not taken back the key I gave to Andy. That was before we switched the door to auto-unlock."


    "Baby...We need to change your entire apartment to make it more secure." Kris kissed her on the forehead.


    "You think? But I don''t have any more enemies."


    "What do you mean? No one is clear of having enemies. A jealous ex might come to steal you from me or your so beautiful a stalker might come to your house."


    "I understand. Then, you should be in charge and do whatever you see fit with my apartment."


    Kris smiled and kissed her on the cheeks before entering his bedroom.


    "What are you doing?" Lena asked.


    "Getting the keys to your apartment."


    "Huh? How can you have keys to my apartment?" Lena gasped. "Unless you''re the stalker!!"


    Kris opened his secured drawer and took out the master keys to the building. "Silly girl, I own this entire building, why would I not have keys to every single room in this place?" He waved the keys to Lena.


    "What?! Why am I hearing about this just now? No wonder you got into my apartment last time!" Lena spouted. "Why did we not date earlier? I had to spend a lot of money to bride the previous couple in my house away!"


    Kris laughed. "Stay obediently here. I will come back with your clothes."


    Kris left and Lena sat on the sofa and watched the morning news. There was news a lot in the entertainment industry. Andy must be very busy lately.


    That was right, Lena told her dad that she would make time to go see him. She guessed she can go see him later today. After a few more minutes, Kris was back.


    Lena grabbed her clothes from him and got dressed. Kris chose a black knee-length skirt and a white blouse. She quickly changed and then head back out. Kris was still in the living room.


    They both left his apartment and head to the elevator together. Lena was going back to her apartment so she can do her hair and get her paperwork for work. She did not go earlier because she was not going to risk the chance of someone else seeing her wearing Kris'' clothes.


    As they entered the elevator, Lena turned to face Kris. "I am going to see Andy later today."


    Kris stared at Lena but did not reply. Lena does not know what he was thinking about.


    "My dad requested it first. But I guess I should just go check on him anyways. Madam Yang is dead and who knows what happened to Eva. James will be going with me, so nothing will go wrong." Lena tried to make sure Kris was not feeling insecure.


    Kris smiled at her and caressed her cheek. "I trust you, Lena. Besides, that man is no match for me. I am not scared about you leaving me for him. But I am scared that he will come and steal you back. After all, he lost a great gem."


    Kris kissed Lena on her head as the elevator door opened when they reached her floor. Lena walked out and stared at her handsome man.


    "If he does, you can shoot him down." She blew him an air kiss as the door closed. She walked to the apartment and opened the door using the master key that Kris gave her.


    It took her about 20 more minutes to get ready. She was going to drive to work today but since she will be visiting Andy, later on, it was better if James stayed with her. James picked her up and they head to SHYNE.


    When they reached her office floor, Diane quickly greeted Lena. As usually, she gave Lena a fast rundown of her schedule for today.


    "Diane, order me some fresh scented candles and a small magnolia tree."


    "Yes."


    "Make sure it is here and wrapped nicely before I leave tonight."


    "Yes." Diane replied.


    Lena entered her office and started working. She wanted to finish approving the designs for the LUX partnership launch so they can start the production process. She will also be going out with Kris this weekend so she wanted to make sure she was always ahead on her important work.


    Lena had a meeting before lunch. She ate out with the secretaries that worked in her office before coming back. She had no more meetings scheduled for the afternoon. Diane already got the gift ready for Andy and she told Lena that Sophia said Andy would mostly be in his office today.


    After a few minutes into working, Diane buzzed in to call Lena.


    "Yes, Diane?" Lena answered.


    "The front desk just called and they said that they send Madam Li up here to your office."


    ''Madam Li?'' Lena wondered why she would be here. It could not be that.. she knows about Kris and her already right?


    "Alright, I will be out."


    Lena wanted to be out already when she arrived. She made sure she looking good before exiting out her office door. Just then, the elevator door opened and Madam Li walked in with her bodyguard.


    "Madam Li!" Lena walked over and hugged her. "I did not know you were coming to see me today. If so, I would have gone down to greet you."


    "That''s alright. I know you have a busy schedule. Are you free for a while to discuss some things with me?"


    "Anything for you." Lena replied.


    They both walked into her office and Madam Li''s guard stood outside. Diane also walked in a minute lady to bring in some water and refreshments for them.


    "Thank you, Diane." Lena spoke.


    Diane left shortly afterward so both of them can talk.


    Madam Li took a drink of water and then looked at Lena. "I assumed you have heard the news?"


    "News?" Lena pondered about what Madam Li was talking about. "You mean how Kris was able to hug you?"


    "Yes." Madam Li replied.


    "I did hear about it. He told a lot of his friends last night about it."


    "I see." Madam Li took another drink of water. "I am actually here about you and Kris though."


    Lena gulped. ''OH NO! She could have known right? And even if she does, it does not matter anyway!''


    "Us...?"


    Madam Li went to her bag and took out an envelope. Lena stared at the white envelope and her heart was racing. That envelope would not contain what she think it has right?


    ''OH MY GOSH! Is this the scene where the rich mom pays off the girl to not date her son! Madam Li, I thought we were on good terms! I won''t let Kris go for any amount of money!''

 Chapter 209 - Be there for him.

    Madam Li placed the envelope on the table and slid it to Lena.


    "I will get straight to the point. This is a bribe." Madam Li spoke.


    "Madam Li." Lena dropped her sweet smile and looked at Madam Li. She slid the envelop back to her. "No matter the amount or value, I won''t take bribery."


    Madam Li laughed. "I guessed Dr. Tye was correct. He said you would not take it."


    "Dr. Tye?" Lena was confused. "Didn''t you say you were here regarding me and Kris?"


    Madam Li took the envelope back and put it in her bag. "Yes. I need to ask you for a favor. It has to do with Kris. Dr. Tye suggested that since you are a good influence for Kris, you would be able to help us with some... family issues."


    Family issues. Is this about why Kris was avoiding home for a bit? "I don''t think I would feel comfortable inserting myself into the Li family issues. If I remember correctly, the Li family is as messy as any other highly wealthy families."


    "I understand. It is true that Kris and I are not close to his grandparents anymore, but this is a situation we cannot avoid."


    Lena could feel that Madam Li was as frustrated with visiting Kris'' grandparents as he was. "So what is this favor you wanted me to help you with? I can decide if I can or cannot after hearing what you have to say."


    Madam Li smiled a bit. "I was hoping you can attend the family dinner with us next weekend. Dr. Tye said that if I bring you along, it would relieve some stress on Kris."


    "Wouldn''t that be... a bit weird with me just there at your family dinner?"


    "Ahaha.. absolutely not. Old Madam Li always being one of the rich ladies to the dinner anyway. I guess it is a thing with mothers. Even I did that a few times for Kris before I stopped." Madam Li admitted. "I assumed that maybe just one girl will catch his attention and he would just, you know, feel a different kind of love. He always shut himself with his work and his close friends."


    "I see."


    "You only need to be there, not for me... but for Kris. Be there for him. If it''s one thing that I cannot protect him from, then this is it. I cannot protect him from visiting his grandparents at least once a year."


    "Have you told Kris about this?"


    "No. I was hoping to surprise him. He just finally hugged me and we''re happy, but if I bring up the topic with him again, he might just never hug me again, and this time because he choose not to."


    These two... they really know how to make Lena help them. Kris is her boyfriend, her future husband and father of her children... she would meet his nasty family sooner or later. Lena guessed that sooner would not matter anyways.


    "I can help you with this. But." Lena answered. "I will be there to protect me, Kris and you. I will not hold back if anyone attacks me."


    Madam Li chuckled. "Of course. That is why I chose you. You''re a smart and kind woman. You really have helped us a lot. I cannot thank you enough for all your good deeds."


    Madam Li went back to her purse and pulled out the envelope.


    "Ah no, Madam Li. I don''t need the money."


    "This is something different." She placed the envelope on the table. "It''s a gift. A thank you gift for helping my son.. with his condition."


    Lena looked at the envelope and then took it. She opened it and then stared back at Madam Li. "A private jet? Madam Li... this is too much for a gift."


    "Too much for you, but nothing compared to my son''s hug. Please, just take it. I know you can put it to good use. You have family far away, having a private jet would be easier to visit them. Kris and I cannot have a loving family, but I know the Shen family are kind people."


    Madam Li placed a hand on Lena''s lap. "You should spend more time with your family. I somewhat wished I did with mine before I got married. I cannot spoil my son, but at least I can still spoil his friends."


    Lena smiled. His friend... and his girlfriend. "Very well then, thank you."


    Madam Li got up to prepare to leave. "Don''t tell Kris though, it would not be a surprise for him. I will have someone pick you up and you will meet us at the Main Li Mansion."


    "Ok."


    Lena walked Madam Li out and she left. Lena was wondering what kind of trouble she was getting herself into. But if trouble meant to protect the man of her life, she would have front seat tickets.


    Lena was wondering if she should tell Kris or not. In the end, she decided not too. It would be a great surprise for him, as Madam Li said.


    She sat back down on her desk and realized that she would need to make an excuse to go and stay at the Shen mansion for awhile... because Madam Li would pick her up there. Why does she need an excuse anyways? To visit her home...? Sometimes, Lena was just forgetful.


    Lena quickly went back to work. She still needed to visit Andy and get that over with.


    She worked for a few hours before leaving. She gave the private jet information for Diane to confirm and deal with the process. James carried the gifts and they head off to the car and drove to the Yang company.


    She walked casually in and took the elevator up. Most of the employees already know that Lena was not her usual self. She was more stunning as ever. And with Miss. Eva gone, some rumors were going around that Lena would hook back up with Andy.


    Lena got off Andy''s floor. She smiled at Sohpia who urgently walked her way.


    "Miss. Shen! Thank god you''re here." Sophia panicked.


    "Why?"


    "CEO Yang has not come out of his office since this morning."


    "That''s not a first." Lena replied.


    "I know... but with... the stuff going on lately, I fear that.. you know." Sophia does not want to say that her boss may be suicidal.


    Lena sighed. "Ok... thanks. I''ll take care of it. Order him something to eat."


    Why does Lena feel like she was being too nice lately, and picking up stray cats here and there? Does she have so much free time?


    She walked to the office door and tried to open it. It was locked.


    "James? How strong are you?"


    As if he already knew why Lena asked him that question, James placed the gift down on the floor and kicked the office door opened.


    "Thank you." Lena replied.


    She bent down, grabbed the gift and walked in.


    Andy was standing, just looking out the window when his door was knocked open. He looked over and saw Lena walking inside like she did not just break his door open. He rolled his eyes and stared back into the scenery.


    Lena placed the gift on the table and sat on the sofa.


    "Are you okay?"

 Chapter 210 - Blessed with another child

    Andy did not answer Lena.


    Lena sighed. "If I knew you were going to be useless, I should have just let you died and then maybe Gary would be going a better job with the company right now."


    Andy turned around. He stared at Lena and walked to sit with her. "I am fine."


    "You sure? You don''t look fine."


    "I don''t miss any of them." Andy replied.


    "So what is bothering you?"


    Andy laid back on the sofa and rested his head on the back as he stared to the ceiling. "Work."


    "Yes, absolutely. I believe that 100%." Lena sarcastically commented.


    "How did you do it?" Andy asked.


    "So what?"


    "Move on and find love again. Will I ever be able to trust anyone again? Do I even deserve to love someone again?"


    "Ahhh... So you are having a love crisis. You will be able to find love again." Lena smiled at him. "If she''s the one, then you would no doubt to trust her again. Everyone deserves to be loved if they are willing to accept it."


    Lena picked up the potted tree and handed it to Andy. "I gave you your second chance, don''t let me down a second time." Lena patted his shoulder. "First love is not always meant to be. But the fated one, it''s forever. Don''t let your first experience define the great possibilities of the future."


    Lena stood up. "I wasn''t planning to stay long but I can stay if you want me too?"


    "No. I am good. Thank Lena, for giving me a second chance."


    "Of course. But let me warn you, Andy, I won''t let go so easily again if you dare cross my path the wrong way again."


    Lena walked out of the office room. "And please, make sure you eat. The poor can''t afford to eat and you are here starving yourself for no reason."


    Lena closed the broken door and left. A few minutes later, Sophia brought in some food for Andy and he ate it.


    Lena got into the car and James drove out of the Yang company.


    "Take me to the Shen mansion. I would be staying over there for a while." Lena spoke.


    She had been giving people advice but she herself needed to take care of her own concerns. James dropped her off and she quickly went up to her room. She laid on her bed, trying to decide when it would be a good time to talk to her mother about her concern.


    She heard her parents coming home. She went to look out the window. Her mom was cheerfully laughing with her dad. Lena really wished that her married life would be as peaceful and wonderous like her parents.


    She decided that she will talk to her mother tomorrow. She went down and greeted her parents.


    ------


    The next day, Lena went to work as usual. James picked her up and she arrived at SHYNE. Lena made sure she was texting and talking to Kris whenever she was available. She missed him and she did not want him to suddenly sneak into her bedroom at the Shen mansion again.


    Lena stayed late at work and had dinner herself as she tried to finish more projects. When it was 8 p.m., she left and James dropped her at the Shen mansion again.


    Aunt Mary asked if Lena was going to have dinner but she told her that she already did.


    "Where are my parents?" Lena asked.


    "Your father is in his study and your mother is in the library."


    "Ok. Thanks."


    Lena walked up to her bedroom. She went to take a shower and changed into some comfortable sleeping clothes. After drying her hair, she walked down the stairs to go to the library. In the large dark room, only a small lamp was lit by the sofa where her mother was sitting.


    She was reading a book. Shen Milli looked up when she heard someone entered the room.


    "Lena."


    "Hi, mom." Lena walked over and sat on the ground. She rested her head on her mother''s lap.


    Shen Milli put her book down. She moved Lena''s hair behind her air. "Something bothering you?"


    "Kind of." Lena replied.


    "Hmm.. tell me what is bothering my sweet daughter."


    Lena lifted her head and looked at her mom. She placed her hand on Shen Milli''s lap. "Mom, tell me about my older sibling."


    Shen Milli''s heart stopped beating for a bit but she took a deep breath. "Since when have you known?"


    "A few years now."


    "It''s not that we did not want to tell you, it''s just that I don''t want to remember the sad things in life." She patted Lena''s head. "But if you want to know, I can tell you."


    Lena rested her head again on her mother''s lap. "Sorry." Lena did not want to bring back the sad memories of her mother''s life.


    "It''s fine. We''re not kids anymore." Shen Milli replied. "There is not much to tell actually. It was a girl. When your father and I first found out that I was pregnant, we were very happy. We found her gender after four months. She was a very healthy baby."


    Shen Milli started getting teary. "It was just after her fifth month that I lost her."


    Lena got up and sat with her mother. She hugged her. "How did she go?"


    "They didn''t know. She..." Shen Milli paused and took a deep breath. "She was perfectly a healthy baby, and she went away... so quietly. The doctors said that I might not be able to have another baby."


    "But you still had me."


    "Yes, I did. You were a miracle." Shen Milli hugged Lena back. "Before you though, your grandmother took me to the shrine, the one near the old mansion. I was praying for the soul of your sister and for good health. That day, a met an old lady."


    Lena looked at her mom. Lena also saw an old lady at that shrine too. She continued to listen to what her mom had to say.


    "The old lady said that my baby was a blessed child. That her soul was not meant to be in this world, but her fate was here. I don''t know what she meant, but she said that my daughter was in a better place. And that if I keep my good prayers, I would be blessed with another child."


    Shen Milli did not understand what the old lady told her, but Lena did.

 Chapter 211 - Fate

    "And then?" Lena was curious. "Did the old lady say anything else?"


    "Hmm... I don''t remember. But I kept praying as she said. Even when the doctors said that I had a high chance of not conceiving again, I was still hopeful. I truly believe that my sweet baby was in a better place."


    "Yeah... me too." Lena softly replied.


    "It was about a year after that I got you. You were a gift. Even though the doctors said I could not get pregnant again, I did not care. One child is all I needed to have a complete family. That''s why we should go pray once a year at the shrine. To be thankful and bless your sister wherever she is."


    "We should go visit it next month."


    "Yes. Your dad, me and you. We will go together."


    Lena stayed with her mother as they just sit and had a good time bonding more as mother and daughter. Lena was laughing at the stories her mother was telling her about how she would pee everywhere when she was young.


    Lena would run around half-naked around the farm.


    "Lena?" Shen Milli called her name.


    "Hmm?"


    "Are you seeing someone?"


    Lena stopped laughing and dropped her smile. "I--- What makes you think that?" She tried to avoid the question.


    Shen Milli held Lena''s hand. "Becuase.... you have been happier."


    "I..." Damn... What was Lena suppose to say now?


    "Don''t tell dad." She quietly replied. There was no use lying if she got found out. At least her mother doesn''t know who she was with at the moment.


    "Why? We would be happy for you."


    "You think? Dad would probably land a few punches and break his bones."


    "Is he someone bad?" Shen Milli asked.


    "No. Maybe. Not for me... He..."


    Shen Milli patted her head. "You don''t have to tell me. If you love him, then we will love him too." She cleared her throat. "Just make sure you use protection."


    "MOM!" Lena shyly looked down.


    "What?! It is perfectly normal to be sexually active your age."


    "I don''t like this topic."


    "Why are you so shy, Lena? I gave birth to you, I know how you are. You had to hold it so long for Andy but you''re free now."


    "We are not ready!"


    "You''ll never be ready for anything. You''ll get more nervous if you plan it. Just let it go and be natural. Just make sure you play it safe, aye? Do you want me to help you get some birth control pills?"


    "MOM! I am going to sleep."


    Shen Milli laughed. Her daughter was growing up so fast. As long as Lena was happy, safe, and healthy, Lena should have the life she wanted to have with no restrictions.


    "Yes, yes. Go to sleep. I won''t tell your dad... But don''t keep him too long from us or you dad might really break his bones."


    "I know..." Lena kissed her mom goodnight and head out of the library. She quickly ran upstairs and jumped on her bed.


    She flipped her body so she was staring at the ceiling. She raised her hand up and looked at it.


    "Shen Qian... Lena..." She whispered those names.


    If Lena assumption was correct and what the old lady told Shen Milli and her, Shen Qian soul could be the sister of Lena. Shen Qian''s soul did not belong to this world but her fate was... It make sense that this may be the reason why she was put here to this world.


    Could it be that after her "death and rebirth"... her soul merged with Lena''s just so she was stable enough to stay here? And because her fate was destined to be here... maybe that is why she was able to find Kris. What about Lena''s soul? or Shen Qian? Did Shen Qian really die in her sleep the same peaceful death like when she passed in Shen Milli''s womb?


    Lena would need to seek out that old lady again so she can get the answers she needed. She was never really curious about her original life as Shen Qian. However, knowing that those two souls were connected more than just fate but blood, she was more intrigued to find out more.


    Lena had already accepted her identity and her role in this world. She was meant to be here... where her fate lies.


    She closed her eyes and pushed the unnatural thoughts behind her mind. She picked up her phone and called Kris. He picked up after the first ring.


    "Hey." He softly answered.


    "My mom knows about us." Lena spoke. "I mean she does not know about us, like specifically you, but, just that I am seeing someone."


    "Ok."


    "That''s it? You''re not anxious or anything?"


    "No. We''re keeping on the down-low but if people know... they know. I mean... my friends know."


    When Lena thought about it, Kris'' friends know, but Hazel does not know. But then again, Hazel was not one who can keep it on the down-low.


    "Kris?"


    "Hmm?" He replied.


    "Do you believe in fate?"


    "I believe that fate brought us together. I believe that fate had allowed me to see you and love you."


    "What if... we are not fated to be together?"


    "Then I would defy fate and all the godly powers of the world to just be with you."


    He no longer has any small doubt that they were not going to be together. He had decided to fully trust Lena. He knew that no matter what he shows her or whatever fate decides to throw at them to test their love, they would be together forever.


    "Lena?" Kris whispered.


    "Hmm..."


    "I lied. I would never let you leave me. Not before, not now, and not ever in the future." Kris confessed.


    "I know. I would never leave you anyway, not out of my own free will that is."


    "No matter what happens, I would find you, because you''re mine."


    Lena laughed over the phone. "Say that again."


    "You''re mine."


    There was a small moment of silence. They just took the time to appreciate the presence of each other. Lena yawned and Kris knew that she was feeling tired.


    "You should go to sleep." Kris said.


    "But I want to stay with you longer."


    "Then I''ll stay here until you go to sleep, but go to sleep now."


    "Ok..."

 Chapter 212 - More time together

    Lena did not know what time it was when she woke up the next morning. Somehow, her alarm did not go off but her biological clock still woke her up.


    She looked at her phone and noticed that Kris stayed with her for another full hour after she probably went to sleep.


    Lena: Good morning <3


    Kris: Morning


    Kris: Remember tomorrow


    Lena: Yep


    Lena got up and hummed. It was so nice to go to sleep with goodnights and wake up with good mornings from the person you love. Lena could somewhat already imagine waking up next to him every day.


    Lena was going to wear some business casual pants today but there was a slight knock on her door as she was getting dressed. She put on a light rob and walked to open her door.


    "Mom?"


    "Lena, we are not going to work today." Shen Milli clarified. "I already called our work that we are not coming in today."


    "Then, what are we doing today?"


    "I was thinking, we can go shopping and then go eat something together. It''s been a while since we went shopping together. I don''t even know what you like anymore. We should spend more time together."


    "Ok. Let me change." Lena spoke.


    "I''ll see you downstairs for breakfast. We can leave after that."


    Shen Milli closed the door and Lena went back to decide what she wanted to wear today instead. She checked the weather and it was nice and sunny today. It was a good day to wear a dress. She picked up a cute burgundy colored dress.


    Lena put on some slippers and went down to eat. Her dad was already out so it was just her and her mother.


    Today, Lena would be driving her mom and her to go shopping. Lena was considering if James should come along but since he would be working with her this weekend, she gave him the day off.


    Lena''s first stop was a small bakery. Although they just had breakfast, it was nice to get some warm sweet bread in the morning as other shops are just opening for the morning.


    After that small stop, they went shopping for Shen Mao first. The entered a store were men''s clothing was sold at. Shen Milli picked up a gray suit.


    "Do you think your dad will like this?" She asked Lena, but Lena''s mind was focused on the set of ties they had displayed.


    "Hmmm?" Lena replied after a few seconds.


    Shen Milli smiled. "Are you thinking about getting something for him?"


    "I think he only wears specific custom made tailored suits and clothing."


    "I was referring to you dad... not your man."


    "Well--- I..." Lena paused. "I think dad looks great in anything that is not bright."


    Shen Milli laughed. She put the grey suit back where she got it from and walked pass Lena. "You should get him something. He would wear whatever you get him and you know that."


    Lena walked over and picked up a tie. "Yeah...."


    When they left the store, Shen Milli bought several items for her husband while Lena took a very long time to pick a tye for Kris. He was too simple and Lena did not want to get something that would not match his personality anyways. She just chose a nice, simple, charcoal black tie.


    After that, Lena had to drive them to a different store. Shen Milli wanted to go to a store that she frequently visited. As Lena was driving slowly on the smaller road, a young child suddenly popped out of nowhere in front of her car.


    Thankfully, she was able to press her breaks on time. Both her and Shen Milli''s body jerked from the quick stop. Lena checked that her mom was fine before she went out to check the situation.


    "Are you okay?" Lena asked.


    "I... I am fine.." The young girl spoke.


    "FINE?!" An older woman walked up to the street.


    As if Lena''s situation did not catch people''s attention, the loud voice definitely caught more eyes. People stopped on the streets and looked at them.


    "How can you be fine?! You are scratched and might have internal injuries!" The older woman yelled and pointed at Lena. "You! You crashed into my daughter and you think you can get away?"


    "I am very sorry. I can call the police right now to report the situation." Lena sincerely apologized and took out her phone.


    "Police?! Why do you need to report to them? Because you think you are rich, you can just report it and leave. We all know nothing will get done since you are so rich, young miss." The mother continued to rage at Lena.


    The crowd gathered more as they listened to the mother.


    "Look at the young miss, she must be really rich. Her clothes and her car are all expensive." Someone from the crowd spoke.


    "Yeah... bet she is just going to leave without getting charge."


    "What kind of woman drives like that and don''t take responsibility?"


    Lena was very apologetic and was going to really take care of the situation carefully. But after hearing that the mother was rejecting the attention of police and throwing the rich card at her, Lena knew that the mother was just a greedy woman.


    "Are you saying that the police are all corrupted and take bribes as long as someone is rich?" Lena pointed out.


    "I--- No. But who is to say that my child was not harmed and you will pay for the damaged?!"


    "That is why I am reporting it. An official police report will have documented the situation and the expenses will be put on me."


    The mother calmed down a bit. "Then call them."


    Lena smiled. She picked up her phone and dialed the emergency number. After the call connected, Lena told the responder her situation.


    "Ah yeah. I am on Granger street. There is a woman here claiming that I crashed into her daughter with my car. I think she is committing fraud and I need an immediate report here."


    When the mother heard "fraud", she quickly swatted Lena''s phone out of her hand and her phone crashed onto the cement floor.


    "Fraud?! You are the one committing fraud, not me!" The mother shouted. "Everyone here saw that you hit her with your car."


    Lena bent down and picked up her phone. Shen Milli was going to get out of the car but Lena waved her hand to tell her mom that she got this.


    Lena stood back up and walked closer to the angry mother. "Woman... Look at your daughter. Her scratches are already healing, so those were not from my car. And trust me, if I crashed into her, she would be dead and bleeding right now."


    "You! You are making excuses to not take responsibility."


    "Yeah, yeah. The police will be here to investigate this. You have until they come, to stay, or leave right now and you might not go to jail."


    "Sammy! Come here. We are leaving." The old mother went to grab her daughter but Lena blocked her path.


    "I said you, not your daughter." Lena clarified.


    "You b*tch. You can''t block me from taking my daughter."


    Lena turned around to the teen girl. "Do you know this woman? Is she your mother?"


    The teen girl was scared. She looked at Lena, then to the other woman, and back to Lena. "She''s not my mom."


    "Well... looks like I should have the police take you for kidnapping too?" Lena turned back and replied to the angry mother.


    The angry mother did not take a second to let Lena stop her nor took the chance with the cops, she bolted out of the scene. People from the crowd gasped at the scene. A few minutes later, the police came but Lena just said it was a misunderstanding.


    The crowd broke out. Shen Milli got out of the car and went to stay with the teenage girl as Lena went to move her car off to the side of the road.


    "Do you have someplace to stay?" Shen Milli asked the little girl.


    Both her and Lena knew after a while that there was something wrong. First, it looked like the girl was running away from that other lady. And it looked like her injuries was not from anything but parental abuse.


    The teenage girl looked at Shen Milli and Lena. "My dad."


    "Where is he?"


    "Somewhere here. Mom and he is not together anymore."


    "Does he know what your mom is doing to you?"


    The girl shook her head. "No... mom does not let me talk to him. He does not know we are in City A."


    "Do you know exactly where he is here?" Lena asked. "We can take you to him."


    "I don''t now. I only say him with someone." The little girl took out a magazine page that was probably ripped out and handed it to Lena. "Him. My dad was with him."


    Lena glanced at it. "Are you sure your dad knows him?"


    "Yeah! They walked into a car together."


    Shen Milli grabbed the page of magazine from Lena. She looked at it. "Isn''t this... Tyler Huang?"

 Chapter 213 - Personal Business

    Lena grabbed the page of magazine back her mother. "Yeah, it''s him."


    She turned back to Sammy. "Do you want to go to the hospital first? You can get a check-up and I or they can call your dad for you."


    "No. I just want to see my dad, please. I don''t know his number."


    "Ok. What''s your dad''s name?" Lena asked.


    "Milo Hu."


    "You go sit in the car with my mom for a bit. I''ll make a few calls to try to contact him."


    Shen Milli took Sammy inside the car first and shared some sweet bread from this morning with her. Lena grabbed her phone and dialed Gary.


    "Hey, Lena." Gary answered.


    "Hey. Need a small favor from you."


    "Anything for you."


    Lena chuckled. "Can you give me the contact info for a Milo Hu?"


    "Mhm." Gary typed a few stuff into his laptop. After a few seconds, the profile on Milo Hu popped out. "Lena... are you playing a joke on me? Such a man does not exist."


    "Don''t exist?" Lena pondered. What had she got herself into now? She already told Sammy that she would contact her dad for her. She sighed. "Can you get me Tyler Huang''s number?"


    "Lena, you already have such a good boyfriend, why are you asking for other hot men''s information?"


    "Gary, are you going to do it or not. And it''s my personal business why I want those hot men''s information. If you don''t want to give it to me then I can ask my "good boyfriend" myself."


    "You should." Kris''s voice replied over the phone.


    Lena could recognize his voice from anywhere. "You-- Why are you there?"


    "Why are you asking for other hot men''s information?" Kris replied.


    "Hot men? Where?! I only know one hot man and he''s talking on the phone with me right now."


    Kris smiled. "What can your good and hot boyfriend do for you today?"


    "I need Tyler Huang''s number. I got into some stuff and end up with a teenage girl in my car. Her dad is involved with the man and I just want to get the girl home."


    "You don''t need to explain, you know." Kris pointed out.


    "I know. But I want to. So, you have his number? I can call Henry instead if you don''t."


    "I do. I can text you his number."


    "Thanks. My mom is with me today so no shady business, don''t you worry. Oh, and by any chance, you know if he is still in City A?"


    "He is." Kris replied. "And Lena, stop getting into trouble without me there by your side."


    "But you are by my side, that is why I get into trouble. Wish I can talk longer but they are waiting for me. See you tomorrow. Muah!"


    Lena sent Kris a kiss over the phone and hung up. She got into her car, which Shen Milli already started the engine and turned on the AC.


    "Did you call my dad?" Sammy asked.


    "No. But we can reach him from the man in the magazine." Lena smiled back to her.


    Kris texted Lena Tyler Huang''s cellphone and his current location at the moment. Lena was not going to even ask why Kris has the man''s exact location. She called Tyler three times and he did not pick up.


    As a last resort, she just drove all of them to the hotel location that Kris sent her. Lena parked the car and got out. Sammy got out with her, however, Shen Milli decided to stay behind. It was too much walking for her already.


    She told them she would wait for them outside as she sat on a bench.


    "Ok. We''ll be quick." Lena hugged her mom and left with Sammy.


    When Lena walked into the hotel, she noticed that the hotel was a business of the Li Group. Sammy and Lena went up to the elevator to the private suite of the hotel. However, only authorized personnel can enter them.


    Lena quickly texted Kris for his access override code.


    Kris: ^-^ Sweetie. You''re in all my systems


    Kris: Just scan your fingerprint <3


    Lena placed her fingerprint on the scanner and it overrode the lock and the elevator went up. The elevator has a fingerprint and badge scanner option for secured floors.


    Lena: o.o Thanks!


    "Are you texting your boyfriend?" Sammy asked.


    Lena looked at her and smiled. "Yeah."


    "Is he handsome like the man in the magazine?"


    "Of course. He is way much more handsome than that person by a ton though." Lena chuckled.


    Lena wanted to show Sammy a picture of Kris, but she realized Kris and her have not taken many great pictures together as a couple. They should do that soon.


    The elevator stopped and opened. Both of them stepped out and Lena went up to the door and knocked. There was no response. Lena was about to knock again, but the door opened.


    Tyler stood there with a wide grin. "Yo! What day is it for me to have the wonderful and beautiful Lena Shen at my doors?"


    "Mr. Magazine, Lena is taken but I am single." Sammy smiled.


    Lena glared at Tyler but she laughed inside at Sammy''s comment. "Hello, Mr. Huang. I am here for business actually. I am here for Milo Hu."


    Tyler stopped his grinned and tried to see what Lena was doing.


    "Mr. Huang, we are looking for my dad. I saw him with you the other day." Sammy changed Mr. magazine to Mr. Huang to follow Lena.


    Tyler looked at the kid and she did look like Milo. He sighed. "Come in. I''ll call him."


    Lena and Sammy walked in and sat on the sofa while Tyler went somewhere else to make a call. When he came back, he brought some water with him.


    "Your dad will be here in half an hour." Tyler spoke.


    Half an hour... Lena''s mom was still waiting for her to return. Lena looked at Sammy. "Hey Sammy, you wait here with Mr. Huang for your dad."


    "You''re leaving?" Sammy asked.


    "My mom is still waiting for me and she is tired from today already. Don''t worry. Mr. Huang is good..." Lena turned and looked at Tyler. "Friend. He will be with you until your dad comes okay?"


    Sammy looked at Tyler who was handsome as a model. "Ok."


    "When your dad comes, you call me ok? So I know that you are going home." Lena handed Sammy her phone card. "And if you ever need anything, call me too, okay?"


    "Ok. Thanks, Older Sister Lena."


    Lena stood up to leave and Tyler followed her out.


    "I don''t get your number?" He asked.


    "You can call my office if you need me." Lena replied.


    "Wow... and you''re ditching a kid with me and I don''t even get a thank you from you."


    Lena looked at Tyler. "That''s right. IF she gets to her dad safely, then I''ll send you a thank you card."


    "I don''t want a thank you card. Call me by my name instead, after all, we are friends." Tyler smirked.


    "See you later Mr. Huang. I was able to find you and enter your floor so freely, so I suggest you be a nice babysitter. Next time, I''ll bring you your gravestone instead." Lena turned around and walked back to the elevator.


    Tyler watched Lena until the elevator doors closed. He walked back to see Sammy drinking water and eating some snacks. She was still holding Lena''s phone card tightly in her hand.


    "Hey kid." Tyler called out.


    "I am not a kid."


    "You want a tablet? I can add your dad''s number and Lena''s number in it."


    "For free?"


    "Yeah." Tyler smiled.


    "Okay!" It was a freaken free tablet. Who would not want one?!


    Tyler went to his office and got out a brand new tablet. He handed to Sammy and they both activated it on as they wait for her dad to show up. Sammy was too preoccupied with the newest advance tablet that she did not notice what Tyler planned all along.


    He took the scented phonecard that Lena gave Sammy. He smelled it once before putting it in his own wallet. ''Taken?'' He chuckled. ''If she was not his, then she will never be taken.''

 Chapter 214 - Sammy

    Lena head out and her Shen Milli was still sitting on the bench outside, waiting for her.


    "You''re back. Did everything go well?"


    "Yeah." Lena replied. "You''re tired. I will take you home. We can go shopping at another time."


    Shen Milli got up from the bench and head inside the car with Lena. When they got home, Lena did not stay. She had one of their drivers drive her back to her apartment. Kris and she would be going out tomorrow.


    It was only the afternoon. Since Lena did not go into her office, she still called Diane to check up on her work. It''s been months since she finalized her design program and the college boys were still waiting to hear from Lena about meeting their master.


    Lena gave Gary another call. She at least owed the college boys something for their hard work.


    "Hey." Gary answered.


    "Is Kris still with you?"


    "Does it matter?"


    "No." Lena replied. "Anyways, are you looking for apprentices? Or slaves?"


    "Lena... I thought I had gone to the dark side, but it seems you are sitting right along with me."


    "Yes. We are in it together, buddy."


    Gary laughed. "I could use some slaves. Andy already replied with the land deal."


    "Great. I caught these boys awhile back to work on something for me."


    "Work on something for you? I thought I was your call guy?" Gary whined.


    "Well, it is good to always have plan B. Afterall, we both almost died. I can''t rely on you for everything anymore." Lena pointed out.


    "You''re right. You got your rich*ss boyfriend now. You got a plan B with him?"


    "There is no plan B with love." Lena answered. "But anyways.. I''ll send you their contact your way. Be nice to them."


    Lena hung up the phone and shook her head... what is so cool about the deep web anyways? Lena was perfectly fine with the mediocre skills she got.


    While Lena was doing work from home, Milo Hu finally arrived at Tyler''s hotel suite. He knocked on the door twice before Tyler opened the door.


    Just then, Sammy came rushing out and hugged her dad. "Daddy!"


    "Sammy!" Milo hugged her up and then settled her back down. "Why are you not with you mom?"


    "I.... I don''t want to live with her, please. Please don''t make me go back." Sammy was sad.


    "Come here.." Milo hugged her again and looked at Tyler.


    "Come inside." Tyler looked back at him.


    All of them walked back to the living room.


    "Boss... I am sorry for all of this." Milo lowered his head. "I... I understand if I cannot perform my duty for you anymore since this had happened."


    "This is a good thing actually." Tyler chuckled. "Hey, Sammy. You play with your new tablet. Your dad and I are just going to talk for a bit okay? Then you can go with him to his big house."


    "Okay." Sammy sat on the sofa and started watching some videos.


    Tyler walked out to the balcony and Milo followed him out. He closed the door.


    "Get the situation with your wife sorted out, but make sure the kid stays with you." Tyler commanded.


    "Yes, Boss. Thank you."


    "I should thank you. After all, because of Sammy, I can throw a favor card." Tyler smirked.


    Milo was confused but his boss had always had a weird mind of his own. Tyler had never kept with one image. No one what his real personality was. And that was the hard part because no one can decide what Tyler was going to do next.


    "And don''t take her to go live with you. Take her to that offside mansion we had as a safehouse. Your child is as important as you know, you understand?"


    "Yes."


    "And make sure she invites her savior to dinner sometime. Invite me too when the time comes."


    "Ok."


    Milo already knew that Lena Shen was the one who took Sammy to come to see Tyler. When Tyler first called him about her daughter, he was shocked. He thought that his daughter was safe with her mother, but he was wrong.


    When he left Sammy with his mother, he was protecting them from his dark life. But ever since he had worked with Tyler Huang, his work was less dangerous. For sure, he can be the father that Sammy was meant to have.


    He needed to find out for sure what happened between Sammy and his ex-wife.


    "Did you find any information about the change of project leader for the partnership with the Li Group?" Tyler questioned.


    "I only know that your father demanded and after he received a phone call. I cannot trace the call. Do you think your younger brother is attacking you for CEO?"


    "Hmmm... I likely doubt it. My younger brother can only dream that someday he will be CEO of the Huang Family Companies. He has far much to learn before he can reach the top level and compete with others."


    "Do you want me to continue the investigation?"


    "No. It''s the perfect chance to let my younger brother fail and also hard the Li Group. Let them be. You just continue to be the good lawyer you are suppose to be. Luckily we still kept your middle name as Milo."


    "I''ll make sure the fix the paperwork flawlessly."


    "Yes." Tyler nodded.


    They were done talking about business so they both walked back into the living room. Tyler sat down across from Sammy.


    "Hey, you know who Lena is seeing?" Tyler asked.


    "Older sister Lena?" Sammy tried to recall her conversation with Lena. "No. She did not have a picture of him, only that he was more handsome than you."


    Tyler scoffed. ''What kind of woman does not have a photo of her boyfriend. Obviously, she was just lying about having one.''


    ''Well then. It was nice seeing you, Sammy. Make sure to text back to Lena that you are going home with your dad."


    "Yes! Thanks for the tablet and finding my dad, Mr. Huang. When I grow up, I''ll be sure to be your wife."


    "Sammy!" Milo scolded.


    "What? Is it illegal to date my dad''s boss?"


    Milo shook his head. What kind of teaching had his ex-wife taught their once sweet and cute daughter? "Sorry... we will be leaving now. And thanks again."


    Milo and Sammy left Tyler''s suite. After they left, Tyler dropped his nice act and grabbed his secured phone and dialed.


    "Yes, boss?" A girl''s voice answered.


    "Milo is compromised." Tyler spoke.


    "Would you like me to take him out?"


    "No." Tyler took out Lena''s scented phonecard and looked at it. "I still need him. Make sure no one from the team approach him nor give him any assignments without my approval. We need to make his life as normal as a lawyer''s life is supposed to be."


    "Yes. Is that all f your instructions for today?"


    "Yes... why? You have something to say?"


    "The assignment you gave me... when do you want to execute it?"


    "Whenever you are ready. And you need to stop calling me your boss. I am not your boss."


    "You''re right, Tyler. You are not my boss." The woman''s voice confirmed. "See you."


    The call hung up and Tyler stretched out. He can feel that a storm was coming and he needed to make sure he was not going to flood out from it. This time, he needed to stay at the top.

 Chapter 215 - Two is better than one

    It was finally the weekend. Last night Lena did not stay up too late so she was prepared for whatever Kris had planned for her today.


    She felt like there was something tickling her face. She scratched her cheeks and continued to sleep. After a few more seconds, the tickling was back. She instinctively swapped her hand like she was killing a fly and it hit some hard meat.


    "Ouch." She heard a man''s voice.


    Lena quickly opened her eyes. She grabbed her hidden taser pen under her pillow and sat up. She instantly let out a breath of relief after finding out that she swapped Kris hand.


    "Are you trying to get kill?!" Lena scolded him and threw her pillow at him. He caught it and chuckled.


    "No." He threw the pillow back on the empty side of Lena''s bed.


    Kris crawled to the bed again to kiss Lena but she covered her mouth and backed away.


    "I just woke up."


    He smiled and kissed her on her forehead instead. "You should go get ready then."


    Lena got out of the bed and head toward the bathroom. "Pick something appropriate for wherever you are taking me today."


    Lena pointed to her closet to which Kris got up and nodded at her. She went inside the bathroom to get ready for today. She brushed her teeth and hair. She was deciding whether to tie her hair up or not. But since Kris seemed to like her hair down, she let it loose.


    She applied some morning moisturizer and got out. Kris made the bed for her and sat on the bed, alongside with the outfit he chose for it. Lena frowned at the outfit. She walked over and picked it up.


    "You want me to wear a dress?"


    Kris grabbed her waist and let her sit on his lap. "Yeah. It''s easier to take off."


    "Oh my gosh, really? That''s the only reason?" Lena scoffed.


    "Of course not. It became you look nice in dresses. No matter where we go, you should always be pretty."


    "Alright then." Lena kissed Kris on the cheek and got up from his lap.


    She placed the dress back on the bed and walked to her vanity. Kris observantly watched her as she put on her makeup. She took her time to make herself look pretty today. She was pretty every day, but good makeup can always make someone more beautiful. Nothing to be ashamed of to want to feel more beautiful.


    Lena looked at her collection of lipsticks, deciding which one to put on today. Her dress was a maroon-colored.


    "Hmmm..."


    Kris stood up and walked over to Lena. He picked up a lipstick and showed it to Lena. "This one."


    "It''s very red." Lena glanced up to him. "It''s going to get all over you when I kiss you."


    "It''s fine. I like you all over me." He smiled.


    Kris uncapped the lipstick and twirled it out.


    "You want to put it on me?"


    "Yeah."


    Lena opened her mouth wide for Kris to apply the lipstick. He gently applied it on her bottom lip then her top lip. He made sure to not make it very messy. It was the first time that he applied lipstick on someone.


    After he was done, Lena smacked her lips and looked in the mirror.


    "Perfect."


    Kris held her chin and turned her to look at him again. He gave a quick pick on her red luxurious lips. "Yes, perfect."


    Lena slapped his hand away and stood up. "Stop it. I still need to get dressed."


    She walked to the bed where the dress was. She picked it up and went inside her big closet. She chose a comfortable and matching bra that was paired up with the underwear she was currently wearing.


    Lena took off her nightgown, which exposed her breasts completely because the nightgown had a built-in bra.


    Kris whistled at her. Lena turned around to see him standing by the closet doorway.


    "You make it really hard to stop you know?" He spoke.


    "You should come earlier if you wanted it." Lena rolled her eyes and went back to getting dress.


    She picked up the bra and clasped it on. She took the dress out of its hanger and put it on. Kris walked up behind her and helped her pull up the back zipper.


    After he was done, he moved her hair to one side and kissed her nape. He wrapped his arms on her waist.


    "I really love you." Kris engulfed in her sweet scent that was making him crazy. "Only you can ever make me feel like this."


    Lena turned around while still inside his arms. She smiled and wrapped her hands on his neck. She looked into his deep dark eyes. She caressed his left cheek with her thumb.


    "Are you scared?" She asked.


    "Not of losing you. Just scared of myself."


    "Well, we will conquer that together. Two is better than one."


    He picked Lena up and bit and sat her on the dresser that was up to his waist. He placed both of his hands on the side of her waist. "You really do make me go crazy."


    He leaned in to kiss her but she stopped him. He gave her a death glare. "Seriously, you''re killing me this morning."


    "We can kiss as much as we want later one. As for anything but that."


    "There is one thing that I want." Kris smirked. He leaned in closer to her ears and whispered something to her.


    After he was done telling her what she wanted, he backed away and stared at her cute face.


    "That''s it?" Lena was sure that Kris was going to ask for something crazy but it was just something.... unusual.


    Kris nodded and grinned at her.


    Lena sighed. "Fine. Just one though." She pulled him closer to her.


    -----


    After three minutes, Kris and Lena head out of the enormous closet room. Lena walked out first with a satisfied Kris trailing behind her. Lena head to her vanity, grabbed a few things, her purse, and they both left her apartment.


    Kris held Lena''s hand as they walked to the elevator.


    "Oh, and while we are gone, your apartment will get a small makeover." Kris spoke.


    "Makeover?"


    "Yeah. Just to make your apartment safer until you move in with me."


    ''Move in with him.'' Lena thought. They had been so close to each other that she sometimes forgot that they do indeed live in different apartments.


    "Ok." She replied. After all, she did say that he can take charge of the security of her house. "Will they be able to complete it in two days?"


    "Of course."


    When they got down to the parking lot, Lena noticed that Kris was driving a different car. Well, he probably has so many cars but she wanted to remember them all so she knows.


    Kris opened the door for Lena and she sat down. He quickly went to the driver''s seat. He pressed the button to start the car and drove them out of the underground garage.


    When they got out, Kris held out his right hand to Lena. She looked at it. Last time he was driving stick so she could not hold his hand, but this time he was driving automatic.


    "It''s going to be a long ride. I want to hold your hand." He said.


    He must have sensed that Lena wanted to hold his hand last time. She smiled and gladly took his hand.

 Chapter 216 - Lady Boss

    Lena does not drive much nor go out a lot from other than City A and visiting her family in City Z. She knew the big roads to go to popular places and other nearby cities but Kris was driving on small roads.


    They past forests, met a small town, and continued to drive towards the mountains. They continued to drive for three hours before they were finally in the middle of nowhere. Well, it must be somewhere but Lena definitely doesn''t see any houses here nor anything interesting.


    They passed a gated area awhile back but they continued to drive deeper into the mountainous forest. The road finally stopped at a gate that was closed off. It was built inside a large mountain so they must be going into a tunnel next, Lena assumed.


    Kris unwrapped his hand from Lena''s hold and typed in some keycode in the number pad on his screen in his car. The gate opened and he drove in.


    When they entered, the gate opened them to a room just to fit a large car. It was not a tunnel. Kris turned and look at Lena.


    "Are you ready?"


    She met his eyes and replied with no hesitation. "Yes."


    After a few seconds, the room suddenly went down instead. So the room was an elevator. It was awhile before they reached the bottom. Lena did not know how deep underground they were in. They must be very deep underground, even the connection on Kris'' car was not functioning.


    The gate opened again and Kris drove a bit further before they arrived at a large parking lot. There were underground lighting everywhere and there were several cars there too. Some were a military-looking car and others were normal.


    Kris got out of the car and opened the door for Lena. She slowly got out as she observed the place more. Even though it was light up, the place was still somewhat dark and gloomy. She looked down at her beautiful knee-length dress and her high heels.


    "You''re dressed fine." Kris assured her.


    "Ok...." If he said so then she trusted him.


    He put a hand around her waist and guide her to an elevator door. "I''ll give you a tour. The journey starts here. This is my past, present, and future."


    Lena stared right back at him. Without a sense of fear nor doubt, she said, "I am your past, present, and future."


    Kris kissed her on the forehead and then with his right hand, scanned it on the security pad. The elevator door opened and they both walked in. The elevator was entirely made out of glass. Lena could see a ginormous room.


    They were still doing down the elevator. The enormous room had several machines, jets, and other type of equipment. She spotted some people working on the floor. There were massive carts carrying weapons.


    She recognized some guns that James had identified for her but the rest looks like they were heavy-duty weaponry.


    "This is Area 2. The secondary underground base of the Li Family. The Li Family only had one but after I took over, I made a total of 5 areas for our security and work." Kris explained as the elevator slowly went down.


    "And this is.... legal?"


    The elevator stopped and Kris unwrapped his hand on her waist. He walked out first and held out a hand to Lena for her to hold it. She was still inside the elevator.


    "No." He chuckled.


    Lena smiled and took his hand. "I am already you raccomplice from before, remember? A little illegal doesn''t hurt."


    Kris held her hand tightly and raised a brow. "A little?"


    "Ok, fine. like 80%."


    Kris laughed at Lena. "So what about the other 20%?"


    "Well that is when we drive the correct speed limit, and pay for the food we eat. You know, the other things that we do."


    "Like in bed?"


    "Yes, that. I am of age, you know?"


    "I''ll make note of that." Kris replied and led her down to the main area.


    A few men hurriedly rushed toward both of them. They quickly bowed down and greeted them.


    "BOSS!!"


    The stood up straight and looked at the fancy woman next to their boss. Kris was sweetly holding her hand and she was very close to them. They had worked with Kris for 10 years now and their boss had never touched a woman directly.


    They were very focused on checking Lena out, she awkwardly smiled. She knew that they probably had never seen Kris so close to another woman. She wanted to laugh out very loud but restrained herself.


    Lena cleared her throat and held out a hand for a handshake. "Hello, I am Lena Shen."


    Kris quickly held her hand back. "You don''t need to shake their hands." He glared at the men who stopped checking Lena out. He all lowered their head again.


    "Greet your Lady Boss."


    Lena smiled. She liked that name. Not very much of her workers called her "boss" as she usually preferred being called "Miss. Shen." A few times she would be called boss but Lady boss sounds like she was a mafia queen.


    The group of men quickly lowered their head. "Welcome, Lady Boss!"


    "You''re workers are so cute." Lena was very satisfied with the trip so far.


    Kris frowned and the workers did the same. What did the lady boss find cute about them? They were big macho men who had done so many horrible things that this young lady would never have imagined.


    "Am I not cute?" Kris asked.


    "Well of course. When we are in bed, you''re the cutest." Lena shamelessly pointed out and pinched his cheek.


    She felt that with Kris, she did not need to hide. Between them, there is nothing to be shy about. She might be shy about talking with Hazel or her mom, but with Kris, she felt like she can be open and free.


    "There is a bed here. We can go see who is the cutest one." Kris suggested.


    "We just started the tour. You have not shown me where they eat, use the bathroom, nor kill people."


    The men stared at the shameless young lady and how she interacted with their boss. They had seen Kris smiled before, but that was just his way to kill them later on. A master killer can act flawlessly if needed.


    But right now, their boss was real. There was nothing fake about his attraction to the Lady Boss. The Lady Boss also have many masks of her own. Although she looked amazingly beautiful and innocent, she was definitely not all that.


    She already knew that they have a place where they kill people here. Obviously, if Kris was to bring his woman here, she would already know what kind of man Kris was. Although they don''t know everything about their boss, he was a man who they would not hesitate to kill another person for.


    To have someone love Kris they way he is right now or just any of them, it would take a certain type of woman. Just from their small interaction with Lena, they already accepted her fully as their Lady Boss.


    "Oh! Keso''s here too!" Lena dragged Kris and they walked toward Keso. She released her hand holding Kris'' hand and hugged Keso.


    "Miss. Shen! Hello." Keso greeted her.


    Kris was not much of a concern about Lena''s interaction with some specific people. She was a woman who liked to hug people and shake hands with them. As her man, he should understand and accept her the way she is.


    There are some types of people that he cannot allow her to interact with them in such ways. Keso was fine. He was like James to Lena, a protective big brother.


    Lena released her hug from Keso and went back to hold Kris'' hand.


    "Is everything ready for today?" Kris asked Keso.

 Chapter 217 - A pair made in hell

    "Yes." Keso answered. "Everything is set up for you."


    "Okay."


    Kris held Lena''s hand as they entered a different area from the grand main room. Keso followed them as they walked.


    Each time they passed some workers, Kris will introduce Lena as the "Lady Boss" and each worker would always be so shocked.


    They went down a dark hallway before they reached another secured door. Lena was curious where they were going next.


    "Where to?" She asked.


    Kris turned to Lena. "The dark stuff." He scanned his fingerprint again, and the door opened.


    As the door opened, Lena could already hear some screams from the area they were going next. She tightly held Kris''s hand and they entered passed the door.


    "You know... a dress and high heel are definitely not appropriate for all this walking." Lena could hear her heels clinked each time she walked. The echo made it louder too.


    "I think you look fine, more intimidating like that." Kris replied.


    Lena could hear more screaming of several people. Kris looked at her but she was not scared at all, more like curious.


    They arrived at a large intersection that splits into 4 other hallway. By then, the screams were louder.


    "You hear those screams? They are the people who have wronged me and my organization." Kris explained.


    "And what did they do wrong?"


    "Depends. It ranges from stealing from me, going against orders, or..." Kris walked closer to Lena. "As simple as touching or flirting with me."


    Lena smiled. "I don''t like BDSM."


    Kris was not surprised how Lena can turn such a serious thing to something else. He was somewhat happy. "I''ll make note of that too. Not even cuffs?"


    "Maybe just that."


    These two... feeding Keso with dog food. He had spent this morning torturing a spy and now he had to deal with these two love birds. Can''t they be a bit more private about their bed manners?


    "So... Do I get to see some dead bodies?" Lena asked.


    "Why do I feel like you are enjoying this field trip more than I expected?" Kris raised his brows.


    "Nope.. absolutely dreadful right now. But I think I rather just deal with it now than later. Isn''t that why we are here?"


    It was true. Lena cannot mentally prepare herself for anything gruesome. But she knew that going in with strength will make it easier than it is. She already accepted all the horrible things that Kris will share with her.


    She was in love with the monster and devil himself, there is no denial in that. She loves him more than she has any fear. And together, they can conquer it all. As long as they trust and protect each other.


    "Very well then, Lady Boss." Kris answered.


    Kris stopped holding Lena''s hand and let her be free. He led them to the hallway most right of them. Kris entered a keycode and they entered into a room. When Lena entered the room, she instantly stopped and did not take a step further in.


    Keso stayed outside as the door was still opened.


    Lena took a breath and walked completely inside. Keso finally followed entered too. She headed to the glass window. Inside the room was a woman whose leg was chained to the ground. She was completely naked and lifeless. Her hair was cut off.


    Even though the woman''s head was down and she looked very skinny as if she was starved, Lena knew who she was.


    "That''s Eva?" She spoke.


    Kris walked up to stand next to her. "That''s correct."


    "I thought she died already..."


    "That would be too easy. An instant kill is giving the person pity. Such a woman like her deserves no such retribution. Sadly, Madam Yang had it the easy way."


    Lena glanced at Kris. She can feel the dark aura from him that was flooding the room. His eyes were dark and full of blood, the same eyes that she saw him as he was beating the man to death awhile ago when he relapsed.


    "Can I see her?" Lena asked.


    Kris blinked and turned back to look at Lena. "Sure."


    He opened the door and they both walked in. Eva did not even look up since it was not worth the energy, however, she heard a new sound. As she heard the clinking of heels, she slowly lifted her head.


    She spotted Kris first and instinctively scooted herself back to the corner. Her heart was racing and she was scared. But then, she spotted her.... yes, her... Lena was right behind him.


    "YOU B*TCH!" She screamed.


    Kris quickly walked up to her and gave her a hard slap across her face. Eva''s face also hit the wall from the hard slap.


    "You dare!" Kris shouted. He lifted his hand up again to slap Eva but Lena stopped him.


    "Kris." Lena sweetly called out his name. She knew that he was enraged and could easily beat up the already dead woman in front of her.


    Kris looked back at Lena. She was not giving him a stare of regret, fear, nor pity for Eva. Lena was... just Lena.


    Lena pulled out a handkerchief from her purse and grabbed Kris'' hand that slapped Eva.


    "You''re hand is dirty. I don''t want this dirty hand to be touching me."


    "Sorry..." Kris spoke back and relaxed. This woman... only she can ever put with him and his temper.


    Lena continued to wipe his hand as if he had dipped it into a bucket full of poop. "Next time, you should use a whip. Don''t touch another woman if it''s not me even if you are slapping her."


    Eva looked up at the couple and was shocked. She really thought that Lena was stopping Kris.


    "Ok." He obediently replied.


    "Your hand is still nasty, go and wash it clean. Make it a few times. While you''re at that, I want to talk to her alone."


    Kris looked at Lena then nodded at Keso. He was about to go but Lena quickly pulled him to a deep kiss. It did not take them long before they opened their mouths for each other and tasted the sensational kiss that they had been waiting for since this morning.


    Kris used his clean hand to hold Lena''s waist as she put both of her hands on the side of his face. She passionately danced her tongues with Kris'' as he completely accepted every part of her. She let out a small moan before completely parting their mouth away from each other. She sucked on Kris'' lips once before letting him go.


    "That should last you for a bit while I am not with you." She smirked at him.


    He smiled back at her. "Don''t take too long then."


    He was satisfied, for now, and walked out of the room with Keso. He closed the door.


    "Go and bring me a bucket of water and some soap. Bring some sanitizers too." Kris commanded. He did not want to leave Lena alone.


    Keso nodded and head out. When he closed the door, he shook his head slightly. These two... they dare make out not only in front of him but also Eva... they are truly a devil couple, a pair made in hell.

 Chapter 218 - Together

    Lena watched as Kris left and closed the door. She turned around and looked at Eva. She was still at her corner but she stared at Lena in shock.


    "You... You''re with him?!"


    Lena walked close to Eva. "You can still talk... seems like they need to cut your tongue out."


    Eva was startled at first but then burst into a laugh. A crazy laugh. "I... I thought they were going easy on me when they stopped torturing me and feeding me food. They were only buttering me up for you."


    Lena grabbed the chair and brought it close to Eva. She sat down gently.


    "You''re crazy! How can you see anything in him? He is the devil himself! He is not even showing you what they did to me! You think he is all pretty and sunshine like An---."


    Lena stepped on Eva''s feet with her heels and pressed down hard.


    "AHHH!" She screeched from the unexpected pain. Eva thought that she was used to the pain but after about a week of not getting torture, the pain was more intense than she was used to.


    "What right do you have to say his name after all the horrible things you did to him?" Lena released her shoe from Eva''s flesh.


    Eva was short of breath and weak. "You still love him, don''t you? Does your new man know? That you still think about another man when you are with him?!"


    "Wow..." Lena clapped her hands. "Gotta give you some props for that. You definitely grew another pair of the brain while you were in here."


    Lena bent her head low and leveled it with Eva''s. "You think that saying that will make Kris waiver? C''mon, spout some other''s men name too while you''re at that. Is it Gary? Andy''s dad? My bodyguard?"


    Lena got up from her chair and walked to the window, knowing that it was a one-sided mirror. "Just because I love someone doesn''t mean that I cannot care for others. Don''t compare our relationship to your menial one. For sure I went easy on Andy, but my feelings for him are nothing more than just a friend. I gave him a second chance, and there will be no more."


    "You are so sure? He will leave you after he uses you. Hell, bet he would kill you without hesitation. Your love talk is trash." Eva spat on the floor.


    "So what? I have no regrets with Kris... I would not hesitate to die for him, unlike you."


    Eva had no response. "You all hate me so much, you should just kill me. Hah... but you can''t, can you? You will never kill anyone, that is why you will not be able to love a killer like Kris."


    Lena walked back to Eva, making sure she stayed away from her spit on the floor. "But you see, that''s where you''re wrong. Kris and I... we are not the same... we are made as a pair. I might never be able to physically do it, but trust me... my mind has thought of it. I''ll be the mastermind and Kris can be the master do-it. We are a pair, matched in heaven."


    Lena sat on her chair again. "Looks like you were starved. Maybe some mental torture. You have some burn marks." Lena could see some old and new scars but they definitely did some deep dark torture techniques that she had not seen before.


    "Seems like they should start some more physical torture on you. After all, you''re just taking space and wasting food to keep you alive."


    "You---!"


    "Yes, it''s me. Let''s see... maybe we should really go with that tongue being cut off. I hate that sweet fake voice of yours. Oh, and I just watched a scary movie where the killer used a grater to skin the person. That looks scary and nasty... Ugh." Lena shook her body for the chills, making it more scary for Eva. "And you have never been shot before right?"


    Eva widened her eyes... no words can come out of her mouth.


    "I got shot before. And you also shot Andy correct?" Lena got up from the chair and walked to the mirror again. "Do you have a gun, Kris? Oh, wait... why did I even ask, of course, you do. We walked past like 10,000 guns before."


    Kris opened the door and walked in. "Which one? The bigger one or the smaller one?"


    "Hmm... I think the smaller one." Lena grabbed the gun out of Kris'' hand. She quickly took out the magazine ammunition and made sure that it was loaded.


    Eva panicked. She remembered that Lena was not able to shoot her before but seeing Lena handle the gun now, it seems like she had used a gun before.


    "Please! I don''t want to die...." Eva cried.


    "But you just told me before that we should just kill you?"


    "I---."


    "Hey, Kris." Lena turned back and talked to Kris. "Where do I shoot so she would not die that easily? The hand? Leg? Toe?"


    "The toe might be a bit hard for you. You can go for the leg." Kris answered.


    "Ok... but what if I missed?"


    The two of them were casually talking about shooting a person like it was no big deal. Eva scooted and moved a bit as she was still mobile because her legs were only chained. Maybe if she moved a bit, Lena would miss.


    "It''s fine. We have professional doctors here who can make sure she is alive wherever you hit her. Even if she died, no one will know."


    "Ok." Lena smiled and turned back to Eva, who was moving around. "Dude... are you trying to kill yourself? My aim is bad and your moving will just make it harder to aim... you want your head to be shot?"


    Eva stopped. She did not think of that. She just kept waving her hand to beg.


    Lena turned back to Kris. "This is my first time shooting a real target." Lena confessed.


    "You don''t have to if you don''t want to."


    "But I really want to shoot her like... YEAH, SHOOT HER FOR REVENGE!" Lena explained. "You think I am psycho?"


    Kris chuckled. "We can be psycho''s together." He walked behind Lena and help her hold the gun and pointed at Eva''s leg. "Together."


    Lena''s finger was on the trigger but Kris helped her aim. "I think knowing that you can feel my pain too, that is me moving on."


    Lena gave her last words and pulled the trigger. It landed on Eva''s thighs and she screamed. Blood was oozing out.


    Kris relaxed Lena''s arm and took the gun from her. "Let her bleed a bit then Keso can take care of her. Let''s go eat."


    Lena continued to stare at Eva in pain for a bit before turning around and leaving. She really just needed that to move on, from her silent pain and trauma.

 Chapter 219 - Who cares

    ------


    Some fun sexual talk. Just a small warning in case it''s too much for some people.


    -----


    When they exit the room, Lena turned around and looked at Kris. He hugged her gently, not knowing how she was feeling.


    "I am hungry." Lena spoke.


    "Ok. You got out first."


    Lena nodded and stepped out.


    "What do you want to do with her now?" Keso asked.


    "You heard the Lady Boss, she demands more physical torture."


    "And if she dies?"


    "Who cares." Kris replied. "But make sure you do that grater thing... I like that idea too."


    Kris opened the door and walked out. Lena was patiently waiting for him.


    "Do you want to eat real food... or... just me?"


    Lena smiled at his shamelessness. "Hmmm... real food and then you for dessert."


    "I like that idea." Kris carried Lena princess style and walked them both out of the torture area.


    He finally released her down when they reached an elevator. They went in it and rode it up for a while. Lena could sense that they were going back to the surface.


    Lena could feel that Kris kept staring at her. "What?" She asked.


    "My bucket list still has "in the elevator" as number one."


    Of course, his mind was as dirty as hers now. "I don''t like this elevator."


    Kris hugged Lena from the back. "You''re so picky.... or are you just making excuses?"


    "I am not. It just has to be a nicer place... And you did wash your hands right?"


    "Of course, 100 times." Kris exaggerated. "So... you like cherry or strawberry condoms?"


    It was such a random question. Lena looked at him like is he really asking that question. He was...


    "None." She replied. "But... " She paused. "We can''t until marriage."


    Kris sweetly smiled at her. He placed his head on her forehead. "After marriage, got it."


    "I mean... not s*x... but like making real babies."


    "Yes s*x and no babies yet, got it." His smiled grew wider. He was happy having this conversation with her.


    "And..."


    "And..."


    "Kris.. stop repeating everything I say."


    "Right. Stop repeating, got it."


    Lena rolled her eyes. "I want six babies... did I ever mention that to you?"


    Kris stopped putting his head on her forehead and looked at her. She was serious about the six babies. He dropped his smile and Lena stared at him. Did he not want kids....?


    The elevator door opened but they both stayed in and stared at each other. The door closed and they still were inside it.


    "I... Sorry... Just forget it." Lena replied.


    "No." Kris held both of her hands and brought it together. "It''s not that... it''s just... my family is cursed to only have one child." He kissed her hands.


    Lena had forgotten about that... and Kris'' history had proven that curse for a long time now. She pecked his lips.


    "It''s fine. One is better than nothing and you are better than anything. I just need you."


    "Lena..." Kris held her close to him. "If I can give you 100 kid, then we can have 100."


    Lena laughed. "Oh my gosh... my vag*na would be a big open hole and you would not love me anymore."


    Kris laughed too. "Nu uh... I would love you regardless. Love is not s*x."


    "Really? You sure."


    "Of course! We still have the other hole right?" Kris joked.


    "AHHH! Your thinking so far ahead!"


    They both laughed and Kris opened the elevator door for them to get out.


    "Me? Thinking ahead? You''re the one who mentioned kids..."


    "So?" Lena puffed. Kids had always been something she wanted but if she were to just have one with Kris, it was fine. Somehow, she felt like maybe her blessed life with giving her more than one kids... she was the miracle in his life.


    "We can get married now and make a kid after you eat." Kris suggested.


    "What? No! You need to propose to me and it NEED to be really romantic. And you have yet to meet my parents and we still need to have some wild unmarried s*x life before we get married! People say it''s different. We have to experience it all."


    Kris chuckled loudly like a spoiled child. "That''s fine... so... back to the first question, cherry or strawberry?"


    "Hmmm..." Kris led them to the kitchen as Lena pondered. "We can do both? How am I supposed to know which flavor is better?"


    "I like that idea. We can also try all the flavors."


    "Yes." Lena nodded approvingly.


    Kris originally just brought up the topic so Lena''s mind would be off Eva. He knew that she was passed it but he was supposed to protect her even if she doesn''t know it herself.


    Lena assumption before was correct. They reached the surface again and the kitchen had a big view of the forest and mountainous scenery.


    "You like?" He asked.


    "Yeah..."


    Kris knew that Lena was a scenery person. He knew that she would love to eat up here rather than down in the dungeon. "It''s a nice place to have instead of everything being so dark."


    "Yes." Lena replied. "Like us... there is always a light in our darkness."


    Kris pulled Lena close to him and gave her a passionate kissed. Lena instantly responded to his sweet lips and openly accepted his actions. She grasped his hair and pulled him close to her. On the other hand, Kris pushed Lena toward the big glass window.


    He put on hand on her thighs and he stuck his tongue deep into her mouth. When he was with her, she was the only thing that he cared about. He never wanted to let go of this feeling of brightness.


    Kris took the lead and made sure Lena was completely satisfied. He aggressively twirled his tongue against hers and tasted her mouth entirely, devouring every corner of her mouth.


    They both parted their lips just a bit for breath.


    "Kris..." Lena moaned.


    Kris continued to suck on her lips and trailed the kissed down her nape.


    "Kris... someone''s here."


    "Ignore him."


    Kris quickly went in for another taste of Lena. He sensed the cook delivering their food since they first started kissing but he was not going to let an unimportant stopped him.


    He went for another deep tongued round with Lena. She let out a small moan, but not too loud. Kris finally released his lips from her mouth and slightly chuckled at Lena holding back.


    "You kissed me before in front of others... and now you''re shy." He kissed her open nape.


    "Ah.... that was...ah... because..."


    Before she could finish, Kris finally stopped. He released his hands on her. "I know. C''mon, we can eat then continue."


    He held her hand and lead her to the table of food. The cook already dashed out when he finished setting the table.


    Lena sat across the man who was happily grinning to himself. "Seriously... I don''t know why you made that request this morning."


    "What?" Kris held out his collar and looked the perfectly red imprinted lips on it. "It''s so people know I am taken and active."


    "A big hickey would do."


    "Yes... but this is more... seductive." Kris replied. "But we can do that one too. You have to agree though, everyone was looking at me like I am a god. It was obviously due to this wonderous kiss mark you left on me." He winked at her.


    "Good, then you better keep that shirt because I might not do it again." Lena scooped a portion of meat to her plate.


    "Mhmm...." Kris reluctantly replied. He knew that Lena was just saying that but she would absolutely do it again if he asked.

 Chapter 220 - Its simple. Love.

    After eating, Kris and Lena went out of the balcony. It was a large front balcony that was built on the side of the mountain.


    "You sit down first." Kris spoke.


    "Okay."


    Lena walked herself to a large, cushioned balcony sofa and sat down. She looked back to stare at the doors to see when Kris will come back instead of enjoying the natural forest view. After a few minutes, Kris came back carrying a large laptop.


    He sat down next to Lena and placed the laptop on the table.


    "What''s that for?" Lena asked.


    "I can''t show everything in one day because things come and go. But I will try to expose myself to you as much as I can but without overwhelming you too."


    Kris opened the laptop and a picture of him showed it. Lena stared at the page that showed up. It looked like a profile page.


    "This is my profile page within the Li organization. Things I did since I first join, my training, assignments, kills, fails, and successes."


    Lena grabbed the laptop and placed it on her lap. She clicked on kill first and looked at the statistics. "Do you have the most kills?"


    "No..."


    "Have you ever killed a child?"


    "Plenty."


    Lena turned and looked at him. He stared at her too. "A baby?"


    Kris paused before replying, "Yes."


    Lena did not say anything and just went back to look at his profile. If she has nothing good to say, she won''t say it at all. Kris knew that those truths might be a bit hard for Lena to accept, and he himself still remember every single kill he did that involved children.


    "It stopped...." Kris spoke. "Well, more like everything stopped after my mother woke up."


    Lena glanced back at Kris and smiled gently at him. "You don''t need to explain. The past is part of you but not entirely you."


    Kris sighed and closed his eyes. He put his head and rested on Lena''s shoulder. "Why do you always forgive so easily? I can''t.... I can''t do that."


    Lena put the laptop back on the table and put one hand on Kris'' head. "Hm... because it''s you. I really don''t know... but that''s the only answer I can think of. And it is only because it''s you. I understand that others might not forgive so easily when it comes to you, but there has to be a start. And I will be that start for you if that''s just how things are."


    Kris lifted his head from her shoulder and looked at her. "I still can''t forgive my grandfather completely."


    "Unimportant people don''t need forgiveness. You''re not weak just because you can''t forgive someone. And you are not weak either because you can forgive easily. Everyone has their own reasons to forgive or not." Lena replied. "You can''t pretend to forgive someone. It will just torture you more because the other person thinks that your relationship is good again."


    "I am meeting my grandparents next weekend."


    Lena knew... because she was also going to be there.


    "That''s why..." Kris continued. "Why I wanted to show you myself now than later. Because I know that when more people know about us... there will be some that will keep us apart. So I wanted to show you the most I can and so that you don''t have to hear it second-handed from someone else."


    "Thank you. But no matter what people say, I will still trust myself and my own decision making. And I will also trust to see it from your side too before jumping to conclusions."


    "If someone... threatened your family over me... who would you choose?"


    Lena pondered... She had never thought of such a scary situation. Between her family and Kris.. who would she choose?


    "Hmm... Like if someone was going to kill my family or kill you?"


    "Yeah." Kris replied.


    "Well... I would choose my family."


    Kris was not disappointed. Whatever answer Lena said, he was fine with it. He, himself may not really know who to choose between his mother or Lena.


    "My dad obviously does not know how to shoot a gun or run very fast. My mom is dead weight so I would choose them and leave you. I trust that you can beat your way out of 100 men with guns, right?" Lena explained.


    Kris put a hand over his mouth and laughed. "Lena... you always make the weirdest replies."


    "What? It''s correct though. We gotta play smart. We can save everyone if we choose this way. So.. like if it was me or your mom, then you save your mom and I can get out myself."


    Kris stopped his laughing and got serious again. "You want me to trust you that much?"


    "Yes. And I will trust you that much too."


    "You can''t even shoot straight..."


    "I can too! I was just lying before." Lena pouted. "Need some intimidation."


    Kris gave Lena a quick gently pinch on her cheeks as she pouted. "Then.. let''s do that. I will trust you completely."


    "And... You only have one hour to save me if I get kidnapped."


    "One hour? I don''t need that long if it''s you." Kris confirmed.


    "Well, let''s just say if... and after that one hour, I will kill those bast*ards myself without leaving you any fun because you came too late."


    Kris laughed again. He had been smiling and laughing more since Lena had entered his life. It has become a habit and he would not have his old life again over this.


    "Ok. But what if you are too far and one hour is not enough even with the fastest transportation in the world?"


    "Well.... let''s just keep it 1 hour for a reasonable distance."


    "Sure." Kris agreed. "And if I get kidnapped?"


    "Pffftt..." Lena burst into a sarcastic laugh. "If there was ever a day that you get kidnapped, then it would be me kidnapping you. And I will definitely not return you after 1 hour... I will keep you forever in my locked cage."


    "Tsk.."


    Lena pinched Kris''s nose and then grabbed for the laptop again. "So... tell me more about this Art of Seduction training you had?"


    Lena clicked on the files on the Art of Seduction and many pictures and videos suddenly popped up. Her eye caught the gist of it and she instantly closed the laptop. "Oh...."


    "Oh what?" Kris asked, knowing already what Lena saw.


    "Oh... as in Ooh?"


    Kris opened the laptop again for Lena and he clicked on the video. As it played, Lena forced herself to watch it expecting it to be some inappropriate video on adults. But after a while... she understood what Kris was trying to show her.


    She slammed the laptop shut and put her hand on her face to wipe her tears. "I don''t want to watch it anymore..." She sniffed.


    Kris put his left arm around Lena and pulled her toward him to console her. As he did, Lena crashed herself to his chest and cried softly.


    "Sorry..." Kris whispered. He did not want Lena to cry but she needed to really see what "the art of seduction" was... or at least what it meant for him. This was not the first time the topic was brought up. He kind of avoided the entire truth about it last time, but not this time... no hiding from her.


    After Lena tears stopped flowing, she wiped the rest on Kris'' shirt. She sniffed. "It was you wasn''t it... the boy in the video?"


    Kris did not reply and continued to rub her back. With that, Lena knew that it was his way of saying yes.


    Lena covered her face. "Oh my gosh... I feel so guilty."


    Kris stopped and he frowned at her. "Why?"


    Lena looked up at his confused face. "Because of... of how I attacked you so much like a hungry animal."


    Kris sighed. "Lena... you are different than anyone else. You can attack me as much as you want and that is acceptable. Plus, I was the one who kept pushing you to attack me."


    "How.. how did you even get past this....?"


    Lena just had no word or the thought process of how "good" Kris turned out from all the horrible things that he experienced. Of course, he was not a prince charming riding on a white horse, but he was not the worst either. Kris did not do drugs, he is not an addict, nor is he some kind of overly insane, uncontrolled human.


    "Well... it''s simple. Love." Kris answered. "First, it was my mother''s love... and now it''s you, your love for me."


    "I''ll never stop loving you." Lena hugged Kris tightly with her arms.


    "I know."

 Chapter 221 - So many questions

    ======


    NSFW topic explained


    ======


    Kris hugged Lena and they both stayed in each other''s embrace for a few moments of silence.


    "I don''t think I can ever forgive your grandfather too..." Lena replied.


    "..." Kris did not speak back. He just gently hold Lena tightly and safe in his arms.


    "How old were you?"


    "It was a bit before my mother work up... so 13? I don''t remember my age until my mother started celebrating my birthday again."


    "My gosh... and your grandfather did all of this... training just so you would be the perfect protector of the Li family?"


    "That''s what I had been told... his reason, but I don''t believe it."


    Lena parted away from Kris and placed both of her hands on his cheeks. "It''s okay. When we get married, you can marry into my family instead. I have a good family."


    Kris smiled at her. Lena released her hold on his cheeks. Kris pushed her front hair back, putting it behind her right ear.


    "It''s so hard sometimes... to love you when I only know how to hurt you." Kris softly spoke.


    "That''s fine... Well... I mean like it not a good thing to hurt someone, but..." Lena clasped her hands on both of Kris'' hand, wrapping their fingers with each other. "we can''t avoid perfection, only aim for it. A relationship with no single argument is too perfect... we will disagree once in a while."


    Lena continued. "And hurt... as long as it''s not intentional, we can both go through it together. You''re still not 100% good yet and there might be a day you go rogue, a day you might hit me again, but we will get through it until you''ll all better. Just promise me I get to hit you back when you''re sane again."


    Kris gave Lena a soft peck on her lips. "You can get three hits for every single one I do."


    Lena smiled at him before turning back to look at the closed laptop. She placed a hand on top of it and breathed. "Was this... the tough love you were talking about?"


    Kris put his hand on top of Lena''s hand that is above the laptop. "Yeah..."


    Lena closed her eyes as the video flash quickly in her mind again. As much as it was something she would never want to see again, this was part of Kris... and it will affect their relationship.


    Kris once told her that the art of seduction, for him was taught differently to him because of his condition. And these "training lessons" only make his condition worse.


    In the video, Kris was a young boy who was tied up to a chair... psychologically abuse. His unemotional eyes stared at two couple making love. Scratch that... it was not even love... it was rough interc**rse.


    In his world back then... he probably would not know sexual abuse was if he saw it. Although he was never physically abused... he was psychologically abused. He stared at them like it was an educational lesson to remember for a test, something that needed to be ingrained into his brain and for him to never forget it. He was a robot who just stared with no emotion or value.


    He was taught how to look for a woman''s weakness. Her fears, desires, pains, and vulnerabilities... to use those against her and make her answer to your every command. He has been taught how to degrade a woman and to use them just like tools.


    He was also taught the same things for men. How to get a man''s trust and get inside his head. To never trust anyone but only depend on yourself. To protect only your name and your assets. To not attach yourself to anyone nor anything.


    Lena remembered what Kris said before... "Please don''t think that just because I have the skills, it means they are fake to you."


    Lena looked back at Kris. She does not need to question when he was lying or not, to her... he is real.


    "You have questions...?" Kris could tell that Lena''s mind was exploding with many things.


    "So many questions."


    "Well, you have me for eternity to ask."


    "If... we were not what we are... but instead I was just plain old Lena Shen... how would the plain old Kris Li get to me?"


    "Hmmm..." Kris pondered. He had buried many of his past teachings, overriding them with friendship, family, love, and feelings... to be able to understand others. His past and present are mixed together.


    "You were a follower, not a do it type of person. I would target Hazel to get to you. And once I have established my connection with both of you, I can dive in closer to you. A woman like you would love the attention and money."


    "Tsk... you''re so on point. Would you get me to bed?"


    Kris laughed. "Baby... I would kill you before we even get there."


    "Oh yes.. I forgot you don''t do that. So what do you do?"


    "Once you give the woman just the slightest attention and make them think that you are interested in them... you just take it slow. Give them the eye contact, sweet smiles, and pamper them with gifts. Even if not all woman would get it on with you, just the attention makes them feel butterflies. But the easiest part is that they like to talk."


    Lena nodded. She was definitely a talker. Girls like gossips.


    "And you just need to use the proper language and conversational skills to make them expose information that they don''t even know they are sharing with you."


    "I gotcha... so.. when do I get to learn those stuff?" Lena tilted her head.


    "How to play a man?" Kris stopped smiling.


    "No... maybe? Yes."


    "Silly girl... you already played men before... your play skills are good enough." Kris patted Lena''s head.


    "Ok.... then what about my interrogation skills?"


    "Eh... I would give that a 5/10."


    "That bad?" Lena frowned. "What else am I bad at?"


    "Hmm... you''re a good kisser, I can tell you that. But.. what are you bad at?" Kris thought about it for a bit as he collected his list. "You give in too easily when people bride you with food."


    "I---" Lena was about to object but it was true. "Free food is heaven."


    "You should more of eat me then, I won''t charge you. Well, any money that is.. but i might charge you in a different way." Kris replied. "We are here about me though... where are your-so-many-questions?"


    "Yes, right." Lena had gone off-topic. "If someday, I kill your grandpa... would you hate me?"


    Kris grabbed Lena''s hand and kissed it. "Never. You over him any day."

 Chapter 222 - Can I join you?

    Kris and Lena stayed outside in the balcony for another few hours. They went through more of Kris'' profile. When the afternoon breeze was greeting them, Kris went back inside to grab a blanket for both of them. Lena wanted to stay outside some more.


    She cuddled in with Kris on the balcony sofa. She listened to Kris tell her about his past, and where his mother took him for treatment. It was one of the very few times where Kris talked so much and openly told someone about himself.


    Kris looked at Lena after a while when she stopped asking questions. He found her peacefully sleeping on him. They did not even have dinner nor "dessert" yet and she was already sleeping.


    He smiled at her sleeping cute face. He gently picked her up and carried Lena to a room. He placed her on the soft bed and completely stripped her down to put something more comfortable for her to wear.


    After making sure that Lena was good, he pulled up the blanket for her and went to take a shower. He took off his clothes and got into the shower. He let the cool warm water run down his body.


    Kris touched his stabbed scar for a second before letting the water continue to wash his body and cleanse him.


    He stayed in the shower for a long time, just letting the water run. When he got out, he dried his hair and put on a robe.


    Kris took a look at his phone and noticed a few text messages from several people. He smiled. Things seemed to be looking better in the future for him. He put some pajama pants and crawl into bed with Lena.


    They were sleeping a bit early but that may just mean they can stay in bed longer the next morning. Kris pulled Lena closer to him before closing his eyes and falling into a deep slumber with her.


    It was only 3 am when Lena woke up. She had a scary dream but it was nice knowing that she will wake up next to Kris. She could smell the fresh clean scent from Kris. Lena knew that she probably slept on him last night... they did not even have dinner.


    Lena gently removed Kris'' arm that was around her waist. She crept slowly to the bathroom. She used the toilet first then brushed her teeth. She was deciding if she should shower or not. It might be too loud and wake up Kris. In the end, she took off the clothes Kris changed her into yesterday and hopped into the large shower room.


    She turned on the shower and started washing herself. She grabbed some shampoo and scrubbed her hair. She closed her eye and let the warm water rinse away the soap. She closed her eyes a few minutes longer after all the soap in her hair was gone.


    When Lena opened them again, her body finally sensed the presence of Kris. He already opened the shower door and was staring at Lena.


    "F*ck!" Lena screeched. "Kris I swear you will kill me someday with a heart attack."


    Lena turned off the running water and looked at Kris who seemed still very tired. She sighed.


    "Did I wake you up?" She asked but he shook his head and yawned. "You can go back to sleep."


    Kris opened his eyes wider and looked at Lena who was completely naked in the shower. He looked her up and down and then back up to smile at her.


    "What?" Lena pouted. Her man was having nasty thoughts even though he was so dead tired a few seconds ago.


    "Can I join you?"


    "I already finished. You can shower yourself."


    Kris quickly entered the shower and closed the door. He wrapped his arms around Lena, hugging her from behind. He was still wearing his pants. He lowered his head to her refreshing nap and kissed it.


    "But... we didn''t have dessert last night." He protested.


    Lena did not reply back, she was also feeling the heat from his intimate touch. She could also feel his throbbing man rod down below, nudging her in compliance.


    "Plus... we have not done it in a while," Kris added.


    "A while? It has only been like 4 days?"


    "4 days?!" Kris felt like it has been an eternity. He had never felt intense sexual desire until he met Lena and now all his restraint are getting less and less tolerant each time. "Gosh... we should be doing it every day."


    Lena turned around and wrapped her arms on his neck. "Everyday? Will you be able to keep up with me?" Lena smirked.


    "Baby! Are you testing me? I could pound you hard on right now until it is the next year." Kris went closer to her and kissed Lena on the forehead. "But... we still have much to learn about each other before we get there, right?"


    Lena smiled. "Yeah...." She tightened her arms around him and pulled him in for a soft morning kiss. Lena''s body was still somewhat wet but he did not mind.


    "You didn''t brush your teeth yet."


    She chuckled and unwrapped her arms around him. "It''s fine. I can be the one eating breakfast first. Take off your pants for me now."

 Chapter 223 - Little thing

    ================


    NSFW (o.o) WARNING


    ================


    Kris replied with a smile. He opened the shower door and stepped out before turning the water back on. "Be right back then. Stay warm for me."


    He closed it while Lena continued to just stay there waiting for him. Kris walked to the sink and brushed his teeth first. He made sure he got a good rinse before he took off his off the rest of his clothes.


    He dimmed the bathroom light to make it more intimate between them and hopped back into the shower with Lena.


    Lena moved back, making sure that Kris was upfront where the showerhead was.


    "Hey little thing. How are ya?" Lena greeted Kris'' hard meat stick.


    "Little?" Kris scowled in disagreement.


    "What?" Lena looked up at him. "It''s cuter with little than big. Why... should I say ''Hey big thing!?'' That just gives you the chills."


    Kris chuckled and moved closer to Lena, making sure that his bottom was poking her in temptation.


    "You can call it whatever you want. It is all yours to take anyway."


    Lena wrapped her arms around him again. She does a 180, switching place with Kris. With one hand, she turned off the shower.


    "Did I ever tell you, you look extra hot when you''re wet?"


    "Well...." Kris moved in and whispered in her hear. "You look hot too, when you are wet.... the other wet."


    "Tsk!" Lena used her right arm and reach down to squeeze his giant rod for a quick half a second.


    Kris squinted his eyes and looked at her mischevious face which had a big grin.


    "I was just making sure you are fully away, babe."


    "You know.... that is the thing that is going to give you your six babies?"


    "Mhm..." Lena was still smiling at him as she gently wrapped her right hand on his pen*s. She caressed it slowly, moving it from top to bottom. While that was happening, her face closer to Kris herself.


    She kissed his neck several times until she found the perfect spot to mark him. She gave it a big lick before sucking on his open nape.


    Kris knew then that she was giving him the other mark. He was feeling an intense build-up of sensation and heat inside his body.


    He placed his hands on Lena''s butt and fondle with it as she took her time, making sure her hickey was big and visible. Her right hand was still gently moving back and forth below, making sure that he would be extra big to taste in a few minutes.


    Lena does one final big suction on his neck and pulled out to observe her masterpiece. Kris gave her a slight squeeze on her butt and she glared at him.


    "I was just making sure you are awake, baby." He replied. "Don''t want you sleeping on me again right?"


    Lena gasped. She was not going to lie that she had slept on him a few times before... but never would she ever when they are doing these kinds of things.


    "I am hungryyyyy!" She singed.


    Kris laughed and stopped fondling with her butt. He spread out this hands on the side and gripped the shower door on one end and the shower wall on the other. This movement allowed Lena to perfectly see his hard rod sticking out.


    "You''re little thing is ready for you." Kris teased.


    Lena licked her lips before going down on her knees. She used her right hand again to grabbed his d*ck and started moving, a faster pace than she did before. She teased him slowly by licking the end of his d*ck.


    Kris could feel a tingle each time her warm and wet tongue swept over his sensitive meat down below. Lena continued to like and the small spurt of liquids that came out first. After a few minutes of torture, Lena finally put his entirety in her mouth.


    Kris closed his eyes and put his right hand on Lena''s head. His hand followed her movement on her mouth sucking in him, in and out. And each time, she aimed to go deeper and deeper, taking all of him down with her.


    "Mnnnn.." He softly moaned as her movement quickened to a pace that she was familiar and knew that he liked.


    Lena used her left land to play with his balls, rubbing and squeezing them. She made sure to establish a rhythm as she put his big hard and warm rod inside and outside of her mouth. Lena made sure to twirl her tongue on his end when she was pulling out.


    She gave his balls a good sensational squeeze before taking it in again. Kris let out a deep exhale as he felt the build-up coming to the tip of his d*ck. He put his two hands on Lena''s head and it was to signal her that he was coming.


    Lena quickly quickened her pace and sucked him dry, making sure that he feels good. He always do... but she wanted him to always remember this.. their time together and not those bad things.


    "Lena....I..." Before he could finish, his little thing gave up and spurted out the rest of his words to Lena.


    She took it all in and made sure to clean him dry before pulling his d*ck outside of her mouth, his c*m still holding inside her mouth. She looked up to him and opened her mouth, removing his content to the palm of her hands.


    During their time together, Lena had learned that Kris liked ending inside of her but he did like that she taking the c*m. So from then on, Lena could feel when it was good to just swallow and when it was good to just not to.


    Kris smiled at her and bent down to kiss her forehead. "I love you."


    He turned on the shower again. Lena stood up and let the water wash away their heated session. She wrapped her arms on him.


    "I love you too." Lena pulled him down closer to him and gave him a deep kiss. Kris wrapped his hands on her waist and dived in the kiss with her. They passionately sucked on each other''s lips before tangling their tongues with each other.


    Lena could slightly taste the fresh mintiness from Kris and he could taste the small salty liquid that he ejacu*lated out before from her. They mixed their tastes together and cleaned each other from the inside and outside.

 Chapter 224 - Egg Crepes

    Kris and Lena parted their mouths from each other and breathed heavily. After they breathing settled down, Lena helped Kris washed up before they both head out of the shower.


    She always made sure to scrub his body nicely and gently. Some part of him thinks that his scar was open wounds and if she washed them too hard, it would cause pain.


    Kris told her before that they don''t hurt but she continued to be gentle. He did not mind her soft touch, after all, she looked extra cute when she cares so much about him.


    The sun was going to be up in an hour or so. Today, Kris prepared something more comfortable for Lena to wear. Lena wore nice short black pants and a casual grey shirt. She put on some socks and slipped on some sneakers.


    When she was done getting dressed, she looked up at Kris who was finishing up putting on his shirt. Kris spotted at her staring and smiled at her.


    "I am hungry." Lena complained.


    "Did I not satisfied you before?" Kris joked.


    "I need real food...."


    "I''ll feed you something." Kris held out his hand and Lena happily took it.


    He knew that the kitchen up here was not stocked with food so he took them back down to the underground base. The cooks were probably still asleep but he can probably find something for them to eat for a bit.


    They rode the elevator down until they were back deep down in the base. Lena and Kris walked to the kitchen where Kris had shown her before.


    Kris walked over the huge fridge and opened it. He scowled at what was inside it.


    "What? It''s empty?" Lena questioned.


    She walked over and open the refrigerator door wider to see why he had such a reaction. To her surprise, the refrigerator was not empty but full. It was completely full of proteins and lots of meat.


    "There is nothing in here that I know how to cook." Kris responded.


    "I can make something for us."


    "But you are the guest... I should cook."


    Lena laughed. Kris was trying so hard to be a good man for her. "Then we can make something easy."


    Lena did no go for the big juicy meat but instead took out the carton of eggs. She placed it on the table and started opening some drawers to look for more recipes.


    "What are you trying to make?"


    "Some egg crepes."


    Kris walked over a drawer that Lena had not looked at and opened it. He helped Lena take out the materials. He knew that it was an easy recipe so he would be able to help her and learn at the same time.


    Lena took the lead and they both cooked together. Kris wanted to master it so they stayed in the kitchen longer than they originally planned and made lots of egg crepes for the men that were starting to wake up.


    Lena ate while she watched Kris flipped the crepes. She giggled each time a man entered the kitchen and sees their boss struggling. Lena kindly invited them in and they were quick to leave after getting a plate of food.


    After Kris felt like he was pro, he finally stopped and enjoy a nice breakfast with Lena. When they were done, Kris took Lena to the where they would at today.


    They walked to a different area than yesterday until they reached a big door. Kris opened the door and they both entered.


    "This is an adult''s playground?!" Lena quickly gasped at the sight.


    "Adult? Most of us already completed this as a child."


    "Most... yeah... the abnormal most of everyone."


    Lena took a few more steps forward to get a better glance at the enormous obstacle course in the room. It was an indoor one. She could see some bar hops, rope climbing, rock climbing, and more obstacles that she did not know how it worked.


    "When I was young, this was something I would do for fun." Kris held onto a big rope and swung over to the other side. The bottom had a large pit of water. "I wanted to share some of the good things that I had... or made me more... happy I guess."


    Lena grabbed onto the rope and successfully swung across it. James had been teaching her close combat training and improving her stamina. She had not done anything like this. This would be something good for her.


    "I''ll conquer this all." Lena gave Kris a peck on the cheek.


    She turned to look at the next course and stopped smiling. "You''ve got to be kidding me."


    "Hm? It just looks harder than it is. You just need to grab the stick and swing across with it until it hooks it on to the next one. Think of it like some more difficult monkey bars."


    "Wish me good luck!" Lena hopped and grabbed onto the bar. She swung her body back and forth for momentum before jumping off and trying to hook the bar in place for the next jump. Her aim was off for one side and she fell down with a big splash into the water.


    Kris looked over the edge to make sure Lena was alright.


    "You didn''t wish me good luck!" Lena shouted. She held onto the bar and swam back to the latter which was back at the beginning. She noticed that each time she falls, she would have to start all over from the beginning.


    She swung across the rope again, holding onto the bar. She placed it back on its first position and tried again. Kris didn''t think that Lena was going to keep going but if she wanted to, she was free to do whatever she wanted. He liked her fighting spirit.


    Throughout the day, Kris stayed and completed the course with Lena. She fell into the water a few times and had to start over. Kris help gave her tips on how to complete each course and how everything is more than just that a physical course. There are some parts that you can use your brain to complete it.


    This was a good time for Lena to improve on her performance and she also grew closer to Kris. This was also a time for Kris to understand Lena.


    After Lena completed the course with Kris, she told him to go check on their lunch while she tried the course again with just herself. As Kris left, Lena started back at the course from the beginning. She smiled before grabbing the rope and swinging to the other side.


    The last course was shooting at 5 moving targets and hitting the red circle marked on them. The first round, Lena missed 2/5. This time around, she was more focused and was able to hit all of them in one single try.


    "Congratulations!" Kris clapped his hand at Lena and walked to her. He gave a kiss on her forehead even though she was sweating a bit from the heavy workout.


    "How long were you there for?"


    "Awhile. I did not want to bother you."


    "You are right... this is kind of fun." Lena replied.


    "Good. There are several more courses here and others located at each Area. I can show them all to you someday."


    "I would love that!"


    "You sure? Instead of fancy dates at the movies, you would rather be doing these stuff with me?"


    "Of course. I think this is more of a fun and interactive date than a movie. As long as there is food, then any date with you is good."

 Chapter 225 - Always connected

    After lunch, Lena and Kris went somewhere else together. Kris took Lena outside in the mountains where they reached a shooting range that was different than what Lena was used to. She spent a good few hours with Kris outside before it was time for them to leave. Their weekend was coming to an end and the ride home was long too.


    Today was less talking and more understanding Kris by how he sees and do things. Lena saw how Kris interacted with the people who worked for him. Lena observed how he spent his time. They had a long few hours in the car together to speak about for stuff on their life.


    As they finally arrived back in City A, Kris slowed down as they drove down the streets with the city lights at night.


    This weekend, both of them had deepened their relationship. They were able to learn about each other fears and know what they need to improve on. Having a stable and healthy relationship requires hard work and effort.


    Kris actually picked this weekend especially because he will be gone for a week. He had to take care of some overseas business and won''t return until Saturday. But he told Lena that he had a family business on the weekend and that he won''t be seeing her until Monday.


    Lena had not hinted anything to Kris about her being invited to attend the family gathering. After a long weekend with Kris, she knew that he would not mind if he finds out later. Plus, it was somewhat nice to actually see what Kris'' reaction would be and how he acted when he was with his "family."


    Kris parked the car in the underground parking lot. Lena got out first and walked over to the elevator. She pressed the up button and waited for the elevator to come down.


    "What are you doing?" Kris walked over.


    "Going home? Didn''t you say you were going to stay at my place until you leave in the morning?"


    "I did... but didn''t I tell you that your place was getting a makeover?" Kris smiled at Lena''s confused reaction.


    He grabbed her hand and lead her to the speed elevator. He pressed the up button and the elevator quickly opened. Kris pulled Lena inside the elevator with him.


    "Look." He said so proudly as he pressed a new button on the speed elevator that says "Lena."


    "Oh my gosh... you didn''t?!"


    "Oh yes, I did."


    "Did you blew up my living room?!"


    The speed elevator was located and purposely made just for Kris originally, so if he connected it to Lena''s place, then it must have somewhere inside her apartment already.


    "Of course. I thought you would be happier." Kris questioned her reaction.


    "I am not complaining..." Lena replied. "I would live with you someday anyway, right?"


    Kris laughed and kissed Lena''s hand. "Yes. But this way we would be always connected... until then."


    The elevator stopped at Lena''s floor and she was curious what other things she did to her apartment. The door opened and Lena stepped out first.


    Nothing was changed much but she noticed that her door was definitely replaced. Kris must have installed a higher security system. She walked to her bedroom and immediately noticed that her bed was also changed.


    It was an extra-large king-sized bed. Lena quickly went to the bed and pressed her hand on it, making sure it was soft and not hard like Kris'' bed.


    "I made sure it was to your preference," Kris spoke as he entered the room with Lena.


    "I know... I was just making sure." Lena cleared her throat. "Why such a big bed though? We don''t need it this big..."


    "What do you mean? I might so rough and tossed you on the floor... you never know. Unless you want to do it on the floor too."


    "Please. I can do it anywhere with you." Lena retorted back. "Ah!!"


    Kris quickly picked Lena up and tossed her to the bed. He lied down with her, hugged her waist and giving her a kiss on the lips. "Don''t take back your words."


    Lena put her hands on his neck and flipped him over so he was on the bottom and she was on top.


    "I wouldn''t dare."


    Lena pecked him on the lips before getting off the bed. She fixed her hair a bit and look back at Kris who was still on the bed.


    "You go shower first while I cook us something."


    "Mhm." Kris nodded and got off the bed. He took off his shirt as Lena left the room.


    They were only gone for the weekend so Lena''s fridge should still be stock with some food. She opened it and saw that Kris must had his people stock her fridge with more items. She looked at what she had and made something delicious for Kris.


    She was not going to see him for a very long time. As Kris took his time to shower, Lena continued to cook. When he was done, he walked out to see Lena taste her food. She glanced at him, hearing his soft footsteps.


    Lena was getting used to his presense and his soft hidden footsteps.


    "Oh good, you''re done. Finish up while I shower." Lena took off her apron and handed it to Kris along with the stirring spoon. "And make sure to set the table too. Don''t let it cook too long, just 5 more minutes."


    "Yes." Kris nodded obediently.


    Lena smiled and kissed him in the cheek. "You smell like me." She spoke before running off to the bedroom.


    Lena had not bought any neutral or male shampoo for Kris so he was still using her lavender shampoo and body wash.


    Lena quickly took a shower. She check up on Kris after she was done before going back to the bedroom to dry her hair.


    When she was done, they spend a good half hour eating and then sat on the sofa together to watch just an episode of a chinese drama.


    Kris did not understand why Lena like these stuff but he just stared at her the entire time anyways. He can never get tired of her. He was going to not see her for awhile... he will really miss her this time.


    After the episode was done, Kris picked up Lena and they both entered the bedroom. Kris was leaving very early in the morning so Lena did not force him to stay up much longer with her to keep watching more chinese dramas.


    Lena cuddle up against Kris. Kris already told her that she might not be able to contact him since he would be offline for awhile but he would contact her as soon as he can. Lena did not complain. This was just the first test in their relationship... which was distance.


    "Would I be able to go with you next time?" Lena asked.


    "I don''t think so."


    Lena lifted her head and made a sad face at Kris. Once was ok... but she would really want to go with him next time.


    Kris pulled Lena closer to him and kissed her in the forehead. "Next time I leave for something like this again, you would be carrying my baby."


    "What?!"


    "What? You think you''re going to have your last baby when you are 50? Of course we would start as soon as we get married, right?" Kris answered her reaction.


    "Well... yes." Lena did not refute.


    "It''s not something dangerous. I just don''t want you to travel too far, you''ll get home sick very easy."


    "My definition of ''not dangerous'' or yours?" Lena asked.


    "Of course yours. I am with you so I need to speak your language." Kris joked.


    Lena tightly bugged Kris. "Make sure to kiss me goodbye before you leave."


    "Mhm..."

 Chapter 226 - Visiting Cyrus

    When Lena woke up, Kris was already gone and his side of the bed was already cold. Lena scooted to where he slept and cover her self in the blanket and slept a bit more.


    The worse thing about her life lately was waking up to an empty bed and going to work. She wished she could spend her entire day just with Kris. But since he as gone... at least she can focus on work to get her mind off missing Kris too much.


    So that was what Lena did for the rest of the week. She finalized the collaboration with LUX and the items were in production stages.


    She checked up on Andy and he was doing fine too. Lena thought about hanging out with Gary and Hazel but they were both gone too. Gary was gone to work on stuff for his new company and Hazel was taking a break in some overseas.


    Lena sighed. Everyone was out doing things... Today was Thursday... and tomorrow she would be going to City B to meet with Mr. Sanders. COO Brown had invited her last time and she promised to visit so she was not going to deny the plans now.


    After Friday comes then she would be seeing Kris on Saturday at the Old Li mansion. Gosh... being lonely was killing her.


    She still had a few more hours of work but her brain finally stopped working. She already completed all her paperwork but just did not want to leave. Going back to her apartment just reminded her of Kris.


    Lena picked up her phone and called her mother.


    "Lena?" Shen Milli answered.


    "Hey. I was planning on coming over tonight and stay at home for a few days." Lena replied.


    "Why? Did you break up with your boyfriend?"


    "NO!"


    "Why would you come home? You can spend your time with your boyfriend." Shen Milli suggested.


    "He''s busy."


    "What man is too busy for his woman."


    "Mom. Can''t I just come home cuz I want to?!" Lena complained.


    "Of course. I just prefer if you bring me a grandchild instead."


    "You have not even met him yet?"


    "It''s ok. I will meet him sooner or later but I don''t think I can wait for kids." Shen Milli spoke.


    "Why does everyone want me to be pregnant already? I can pop out six kids in a blink of an eye when it''s time."


    "Oh good... so he wants kids too. Are you the one holding it off instead? I thought it would be him, not you."


    Lena paused and processed what her mother just said. Had she been the one holding it off? Kris and she had been talking about doing it multiple times but just never did. Was it because she said she was not ready the first time and he was waiting for her to give him the go-ahead?


    Lena thought that they were both just waiting for a good time... but maybe he was just being patient with her. Lena would need to initiate it next time then, for sure. And make sure they were on the same page. Less joking and more serious.


    "Fine... I am not coming home today then. Maybe on Friday. You didn''t tell dad yet, right? About him?"


    "No. He still thinks that he will have his little Lili with him forever although he keeps pretending that it is fine with you getting engaged or married."


    "I know... dad is just being a dad."


    "Alright... I''ll see you at home on Friday."


    Lena said her goodbyes and hung up the call. She looked at the desk and then at the door. She decided to leave work early today.


    Lena cleaned up her work desk and grabbed her bag. She opened the door.


    "Diane. I am leaving early today. And remember I won''t be in the office tomorrow so just send me anything that needs my attention to my tablet."


    "Yes." Diane replied.


    Lena walked over the elevator and James followed her out.


    After her time with Kris, Lena had pushed herself to train harder with James. With her free time after work, she spent most of it with James.


    James got into the driver''s seat and Lena got inside the car herself.


    "Where to?" He asked.


    "The hospital."


    ''Are you sick anywhere?"


    "No."


    James looked at Lena just to make sure she was alright. He nodded and started the car. He drove Lena to the hospital where she would usually go and where the Shen family doctor was. Lena told James to stay in the car and that she would be quick. About 20 minutes later, Lena came back out of the hospital.


    Lena got inside the car and closed the door.


    "Ok. Take me back to my place."


    James drove Lena back to her place. She told him that she would do her daily exercises herself but not too much since she will be at Cyrus tomorrow.


    As promised, once James dropped her off, Lena went up to her place first. She dressed into some comfortable clothes before using the speed elevator to go up to Kris'' penthouse. She had her own workout room but Kris had more varieties of machines and equipment. She had just been using his place instead of hers.


    Additionally, being up here made her miss him less... as if he was secretly watching her as she was sneaking around his place.


    Lena finished her workout, ate, showered, and went to sleep. She had not been to Cyrus before and was kind of feeling an unknown emotional of uncertainty.


    She woked up early the next day to get ready. It also took a long ride to get to City B so she did not want to be late. James picked her up on time and he drove them to Cyrus.


    When they arrived, Lena was greeted with a very big building. She did not expect Cyrus to be this big. She knew that Mr. Sanders had a successful business but they did not even plan to make it big here in China.


    Regardless, as she stepped out of the car, she can see that they had very high security. She spotted a high quality outside security system and a high volume of guards.


    Lena spotted COO Brown coming out of the building to greet her.


    "Miss. Shen!"


    "COO Brown." Lena shook his hands.


    "Thank you for making the trip for visiting Cyrus today. I am so pleased to show you around."


    "Absolutely."

 Chapter 227 - Future developments in China

    COO Brown led Lena inside the building. As Lena entered, she could see that the building was very much American inspired. It had a different aura than most companies in China.


    "The building was designed by our special design team from America." COO Brown spoke.


    "I see. It is very beautiful."


    "Yes, indeed."


    "Actually, I know Miss. Shen is here today to see Mr. Sanders too but sadly he had unexpected plans and could not be here today."


    "I understand. Just being able to visit such an amazing and prosperous company like Cyrus is good enough."


    "Miss. Shen is too kind."


    Lena smiled back at him. She was really hoping to see Mr. Sanders today. She tried researching on him but there were not many articles about such a successful businessman. What interested her that the man''s company was a bit too clean... and too clean can always mean that it is there to hide many dirty things.


    Especially with such the high security for such a company like Cyrus.... her sixth sense could see that this was something strange. She only gets this intense feeling when she was at the Li group''s company.


    Lena wondered if everyone being gone had something to do with each other....


    "Right this way then Miss. Shen. I want to show you our future developments in China."


    Lena nodded and followed COO Brown.


    Throughout the day, Lena learned quite a bit about Cyrus. She originally suspected that they might be changing their mind and opening a competition for business in China, but no. Mr. Sanders is just mostly focused on investing in projects and company in China.


    "And here... this is the team that is currently working on our most important project at the moment."


    "What is it?" Lena asked.


    COO Brown entered the room and the group of workers greeted them.


    "Have Miss. Shen heard of the Agato Land?" COO Brown spoke.


    "Well of course... it was big in the news a while back. Something about the old Mayor Bai and his scandals."


    "Yes. Well, with the mass amount that Mr. Sanders has, he had chosen to do a charity clean up of the land."


    "Just because he had money lying around? Mr. Sanders sure invest in many weird projects."


    "Well, not only that. But also because his son requested it. Afterall, such prime land is a waste to just let it sit. With proper cleanup and safety features, the amount of money put in would be very little to the amount that he will get from it."


    "I see. Mr. Sander''s son is a smart man."


    COO Brown and Lena left the room. They went to a private area to have lunch. The company has private chefs that cook meals for the workers.


    "So... how many children does Mr. Sanders have that he is investing so much of his money?" Lena asked.


    "Well.. Mr. Sanders has 5 adopted children but 2 who are his, so 7 children total."


    "I see. He must be a very nice man. I am more curious to meet him."


    "AHAHA... I do sincerely apologize that Mr. Sanders cannot be here today. But for sure he will be at the Shen Annual Company Event."


    "I sure do hope so."


    "Mr. Sanders adopted 5 sons. And then his biological kids are one son and a daughter."


    "I see... and do they work for Cyrus?" Lena wondered.


    "None of them currently do. But Mr. Sanders was hoping his biological son would take over the company. As much as he loves the rest of his kids, he wants the best for this son. He cared for him the most."


    "And the daughter? I cannot imagine growing up with so many brothers."


    COO Brown laughed. "Well.... Miss. Hannah is as you would expect, a wild and carefree child. She is the princess of the family and gets whatever she wants. Mr. Sanders is the only one who can control her."


    Lena smiled.... the typical pampered rich young lady.


    "As long as she does not do anything bad, then she does whatever. She is ban from the family business though, one thing that Mr. Sanders would not allow her to get near. Mr. Sanders could tell that she is also a walking disaster."


    "Well... she will grow up. After all, I sure did." Lena joked.


    "I sure hope so. I would think that you and Miss. Hannah would be great friends. Maybe she could learn some stuff from you."


    "I would not mind."


    Lena finished a lavishing lunch with COO Brown. Because Mr. Sanders was not around, there was not much more for Lena to stay. She left after lunch and went back to City A.


    James drove Lena back to SHYNE. Lena quickly signed some paperwork before going back out. James drove her to the Shen Mansion.


    Her parent was not home yet but her mother already called her that they won''t be home until late. She knew that Lena was staying over tonight but she and Shen Mao had made last minutes plan to go on a date.


    Lena did not mind... after all, she would be seeing Kris tomorrow too. She misses him. Lena went to her room and got out the qipao that her grandmother made for her. She has several of them but this one particularly, she had not worn it yet.


    She was waiting for a special occasion and Lena guessed meeting the Li family should be important. That is... is she can control shooting the old man on his death bed.


    Aunt Mary cooked a small portion of dinner for Lena. She thanked her and ate it. After she was done, she went to take a shower.


    After a few minutes, Lena''s phone rung. She had kept her phone close to her everywhere she went just incase Kris called her. She did not want to miss a single call from him.


    Her hopes were answered when she saw that it was Kris on the caller ID. She turned off the shower and picked up the phone.


    "KRIS! Oh my gosh, I was dying..."


    "Oh? Is that so." Kris replied so casually but he was happy inside to know that Lena had missed him as much as he missed her.


    "Are you getting onto the plane now?"


    "Yeah. Just wanna call you before I sleep on the plane."


    "Everything all good? I won''t find another bullet wound on you right?"


    "Of course I am all good and healthy for you." Kris chuckled. "How about you?"


    "I am all good and healthy for you too!"


    "Really? I know you went to see a doctor yesterday."


    "What?! Are you still spying on me? Of course, I am fine. I was 20 minutes to check on something."


    "Ok... but if there is something wrong, you need to tell me so I don''t get worried."


    "I know." Lena replied.


    "So.... what are you doing now?" Kris asked as he walked up into his private jet.


    "I was taking a shower."


    "Oh?" Kris paused his walking, making his group of friends all stopping behind him. "You should video call so I can see you right now."


    Keso coughed and Tye tiptoed on the steps. Did he hear some dirty comment out of Kris'' mouth? His boy has learned well from him!


    "Hell no!" Lena outright rejected him. "If you want it, you gotta get the real thing yourself."


    Kris continued walking up the steps. "If you say so."


    "Mhm."


    "Well, I am on the plane now. I''ll text you when I am back in City A."


    "Ok... Love you."


    "I love you more." Kris smiled and hung up. He closed his phone and tossed it onto the table and sat on the comfortable seat in the plane.


    He looked to see his group of friends just staring at him.


    "What are you guy standing there for? Did you not hear, my girlfriend is waiting for me to get home."


    "...." No one spoke but just sat down quickly.


    Kris has become more bold and extra scary since he dated Lena... the two pairs that are made from hell... they got the shivers. Tye wondered if his hard work for pairing them was correct.

 Chapter 228 - Pick up a random stranger

    Kris was able to get a few hours of sleep on the plane. Right as the plane landed, he opened his eyes immediately and got off the plane. It looked like he did not sleep one bit at all but he did. He drove himself here so he can drive himself back home.


    He knew that he should go back to the Li mansion so he can head to the Main Li mansion in the morning with his mother but he really did miss Lena. Plus, with her temptation, seeing her for one second would not kill him.


    Kris knew that Lena was not at the apartment tonight so he sneakily drove to the Shen mansion as he did before. He parked his car a few blocks away, hiding it in plain sight. He walked in the night with stealth, climbed over the Shen mansion walls, and stood out front Lena''s balcony.


    Just like last time, he climbed his way up to the second floor and arrived at Lena''s room. With his skills, he was able to unlock the balcony doors and gently slide it open. He spotted Lena sleeping soundlessly as always on the bed.


    He quietly walked over the to bed but stopped. "You know.... you''re not as fat as the pillow you hid under the blanket," Kris whispered.


    "NO!" Lena came out of the window curtains that she was hiding by. She silently spoke to Kris. "How did you know?!"


    "Like I said... you''re not as fat as the pillow." Kris flipped over the blanket, revealing the body pillow that Lena used to pretend to be her.


    "You always say I have big body parts."


    Kris chuckled. "Of course... big body parts in the appropriate places. It''s not like you suddenly got fat in the few days that I left you."


    "Fat? What if I did?"


    "Then I''ll make you do more push-ups."


    Lena walked over to him. "That''s not what you are supposed to say. You are supposed to say ''I will love you even if you are fat.''"


    "Mhm... only if you are fat with my babies." Kris smiled at her.


    Lena quickly put her hands on his cheeks and squeezed it. She smacked her lips on him and then released him. "I miss you so much."


    Kris wrapped his arms on her waist and pulled her to the bed, letting her sit on his lap. He closed his eyes and breathed in her scent... only she would smell this sweet.


    "Me too." He replied. "How did you know I was coming?"


    "Of course, because I was sending brain waves to yours, saying that you should come to see me."


    "Mhm.... I see. I was expecting a naked Lena waiting in bed for me though..."


    "Yeah? Well, maybe another day. You have big stuff tomorrow." Lena stood up from his laps.


    Kris sighed... yeah... big stuff tomorrow. He stood up with Lena and walked to her. "Do I get a goodbye kiss?"


    "Of course... after your welcome back kiss that is."


    Lena turned to face Kris and put her hands on his neck. He put his hands around her waist and brought them closer to each other.


    Lena initiated the first kiss, putting her lips onto his and passionately kissed him.


    "Welcome home." She whispered.


    Kris nodded and then kiss her again, a deeper kiss this time. He made sure to make it long too so he did not have to leave her so soon.


    Lena finally pushed him away after he was taking to long to leave her.


    Kris got the signal. He kissed Lena one more time on the forehead then released her from his arms. "I''ll see you on Monday then."


    Lena did not reply but just smiled at him. "Goodnight."


    Kris opened the balcony doors and climbed back down. Lena went out and watched him every step until he climbed over the walls and she could no longer spot him in the dark.


    She sighed and calmed her heart before going back into her room. She locked the balcony door and closed the curtains before finally going to bed.


    Lena woke up early the next morning. Madam Li did not exactly tell her what time she was having the driver pick her up so Lena just woke up extra early. She got dressed and pretty-up and was just waiting for her ride.


    She told her parents that she had an event to attend and was getting picked up. Her parents stayed in their room and Lena just waited in the living room for her ride.


    Finally at 10 a.m., her ride was here. Lena got up, grabbed her bag and went out. It was a big black limo. There were a driver and a bodyguard. The driver came out and opened the door of Lena.


    "Morning, Miss. Shen."


    Lena smiled at the driver and thanked him. She got into the limo and sat lonely in the spacious car.


    "Is anyone else joining me?" Lena asked. She was curious why such a fancy ride just for herself.


    "No, miss. Just you today."


    The driver drove out of the Shen mansion property and continue to drive to the Main Li mansion. Lena does not know exactly how far the ride was going to be. She noticed that the bodyguard kept looking at her.


    Not in the sense that he was interested in her... but more like he was spying on her. Lena ignored him and just stared out the windows.


    She did not use her cellphone nor go for any of the refreshments in the limo.


    After a while, Lena could feel that they were near. The limo slowed down and they went past gated security.


    "Miss. Shen, Madam Li is outside waiting for you already." The bodyguard finally spoke for the first time in their ride.


    Lena nodded in response. "And Kr--- I mean your young master?"


    "Young Master Li is already inside the mansion. I would be near you at all times today as commanded by Madam Li. I will not be visible but with you, in any case, you get separated."


    "I understand." Lena was not sure why she would get separated but she understood that it was always better to play it safe.


    The driver pulled up to the front of the mansion and Lena spotted Madam Li outside, waiting for her arrival.


    The driver parked the car, got out and opened the door for Lena. Lena gently got out of the Limo.


    "Lena!" Madam Li hugged her. "So glad you can make it."


    "Yes."


    Madam Li nodded at the driver and he went back into the limo and drove away. By the time Lena turned around, the bodyguard was already gone... as he said... "won''t be visible."


    "Kris is already inside. Brunch is already set up. As expected, my mother-in-law did bring in a woman."


    "Do not fret Madam Li, I would not let you or Kris down at all."


    Madam Li smiled. She led Lena inside the mansion and they both walked to the main dining room. Lena could hear the laughter of an older woman and a younger one.


    When they both arrived, the room was completely silenced. Kris too turned to look at them. He spotted Lena but showed no reaction. He just turned his head back again to the dining table as if their presence was not important.


    Old Madam Li smiled mischievously. "Li Bai, I did not think when you said that you were bringing a friend with you, that it would be such a young woman."


    "My mother did not go pick up a random stranger, she went to receive my girlfriend," Kris spoke out loud. His voice had no emotions though... it was just his usually boss and stern voice. Kris took the glass of water from the table and took a sip.


    Lena smiled inside... this man... oh how much their minds are so connected.


    Lena bowed. "Hello, I am Kris'' girlfriend, Lena Shen."


    "Girlfriend?" Old Madam Li scoffed. She knew that Kris would never have one... especially someone as low quality as Lena Shen. "You never had any female friends... when did friend turn into girlfriend?"


    Lena lifted up her head and smiled widely at Old Madam Li. "Girlfriend Can also turn into wife too, Grandmother Li."

 Chapter 229 - The difference between you and me

    ''Gra..gra....Grandmother!'' Old Madam Li was startled at what Lena said but quickly composed herself.


    "Well, welcome then." She replied.


    Madam Li smiled at them both and pulled a chair for Lena to sit next to Kris. Madam Li sat next to Lena so that Lena was in between the mother and son.


    Kris did not speak anything further nor gave Lena any attention. He kept his unemotional and steady face.


    Elder Li signaled for the cook to bring out the food. They did not take much to understood his command and rushed to get the dishes out and set them on the table.


    The first few minutes of the brunch was very quiet. No one spoke. Lena secretly glanced a few times to observe Elder Li. So far... the man looked like any old grandpa... but people are not always as they look like.


    "So... Miss. Shen, what do you do?" Old Madam Li asked.


    "Well, currently I am just helping my parents with the company."


    "Helping? Are you going to take over the company soon?"


    "No. I am just working in a small branch of the company."


    "I see." Old Madam Li smiled. "I forgot to introduce you to Nina Long. She is currently working to become CEO of the Long Law Firm."


    "Nice to meet you, Miss. Shen."


    Lena smiled at Nina. "That''s wonderful. You are a lawyer?"


    "Yes. I completed my degree at University A."


    "Quite an accomplishment." Lena complimented.


    "Of course... such woman like Miss. Long will have a successful life for any man she marries." Old Madam Li added in.


    "Depends..." Lena replied back.


    "Depends?" Nina was confused.


    Not every woman can complete a law school from the best university in China and quickly take over such a large law firm in such a short amount of time.


    "If I remember correctly, it was the Long Law firm that defended the Bai Wentao during his trial. Seems to me and majority of the public, such law firm defends those who can load them with money rather than for justice. Someone can fall as quickly as the rise."


    Kris cleared his throat. He actually burst into a small laugh but quickly covered it by clearing his throat. He took a sipped of water and acted again like he was disinterested in the conversation.


    Lena glanced at him... this man... can''t he hold his laughter until later? She was not done yet.


    Nina composed herself. "That is indeed true... but every person deserves a fair trial and the right to an attorney. And our firm took his defense pro-bono, not for money. I am very much a hard-working woman, and I can stand by the work that I do. Does Miss. Shen do anything for the community?"


    "Of course. I am keeping the community safe by keeping the most dangerous man off the streets and next to me instead." Lena looked at Kris then went back to her plate. She took a bite of her food and chew.


    Nina was confused but Old Madam Li and Elder Li knew exactly what Lena was referring to.


    "Miss. Long works long hours to help people. And when she is not working, she is putting her free time to continue to help others. She is a very good and caring person." Old Madam Li spoke.


    Lena swallowed her food and took a drink of water. "Miss. Long, if I may ask... you are planning to get married sometime in the future, correct?"


    "Of course!" She smiled and looked at Kris. She was so proud of herself.


    "And how many children do you want?"


    "Just one."


    "Just one? Lena confirmed.


    "Yes. Just one is enough for me to be a mother and work. I need to be there for my husband and his family. As much as I am working at my own company, I still need to support my husband and his work."


    Old Madam Li smiled, approving the answer that Nina said. Even Elder Li nodded, agreeing that Nina was a good child. Today was the first day that he was meeting Nina. He knew that his wife always brought in a new person each time to introduce them to Kris.


    Elder Li never particularly like anyone so far but he did not have a good feeling about Lena. There was just something.... slightly off about Lena.


    "You see... that is the difference between you and me. I personally want to get married and become a full-time wife and mother." Lena inputted her opinion.


    Both Elder Li and Old Madam Li stared at Lena. They did not expect such an answer from her.


    "Full-time wife and mother? Who would pay for all the living expense? Don''t you want to be able to provide for your family?" Nina asked.


    "Why? Are you suggesting that Kris Li can''t afford to take care of me and OUR children?" Lena frowned and looked at Kris.


    "I--- I didn''t say that. I was not referring to Kris."


    Lena smiled and slightly shrugged. She picked up the large spoon used to scoop food and grabbed some vegetables. She put on them Kris'' plate.


    "Kris does not like vegetables. He prefers meat." Nina quickly interrupted Lena.


    "Indeed... you did not know?" Old Madam Li chimed in.


    "I know. But he needs to eat more vegetables to get his vitamins and be more healthy. After all, he needs to be able to give me healthy babies too."


    *Cough Cough* Madam Li coughed several times, choking on the water she was drinking.


    "Kris... eat your vegetables," Lena demanded from him.


    Kris looked at his plate. He did not pick up his eating utensils.


    "Kris. You don''t have to eat that. I made plenty of meat dishes just for you." Old Madam Li spoke.


    Kris looked up at his grandmother then he suddenly picked up his fork. He stabbed a few vegetables and ate it. He did not talk at all and just continued to eat.


    Elder Li did not know if Kris ate the food because of Lena or because he wanted to go against his wife.


    "Miss. Shen, you are quite inconsiderate of Kris and his preferences." Elder Li finally spoke.


    "Inconsiderate?" Lena scoffed. "It''s ironic hearing that from a man who had been inconsiderate of his grandson for half of his lifetime."


    "You---!" Elder Li slammed his hand on the table and pointed his finger at Lena.

 Chapter 230 - Rude today to your elders

    Elder Li was enraged because Lena dared to speak to him like that but he did not have anything to reply with because what she said was indeed the truth.


    He was a selfish old man... he ruined his son''s perfect marriage and turned his own grandson into a monster.


    "Lena." Kris finally spoke again. "Are you here to eat? or to talk? Finish your food so we can leave earlier."


    Lena relaxed and focused back on her food. She was only able to take a bit before more drama.


    "Li Bai, how can you bring such an unmannered woman here today?"


    "Mother." Madam Li replied. "Lena is not just any woman, she is the only woman that Kris chose to be with. You should be more accepting considering such a situation turned out well. Probably 1 in 10 million."


    "You think she will be able to give Kris a son?" Old Madam Li looked at Lena to have a better glance at her. Sure Lena was pretty, but she was all talk. She had no filter to her mouth.


    "Let me remind you, I plan to have more than just one. And who is to say the first one will be a son? Of course, I think Kris wants a daughter so he can have two pretty girls around him, right?"


    Kris did not reply.


    "...." Elder Li did not say anything too.


    "That''s not how it works." Old Madam Li spoke.


    "Why?" Lena paused and looked around the table. "Is it because the Li family had always had one child."


    "...." The old lady had nothing to reply with. How did Lena know so much about their family?


    ''It could not be that the rumors were worse than it is? Or is she really that close to Kris? It cannot be... it just has to be Li Bai. Kris is not even paying much attention to Lena as one lover should.''


    "Don''t compare my ability with yours in when it comes to making a child."


    "Miss. Shen! Are you not very rude today to your elders?" Nina questioned.


    Lena glared at her. "Outsiders should stay away from the family discussion."


    Nina opened her mouth in surprise. Did Lena just called her an outsider? She pouted and made a sad face to Old Madam Li.


    "You''re very rude. You''re such bad luck that you killed the first child from your mother''s womb." Old Madam finally tries to hit something personal from Lena''s life.


    Lena looked at the old lady and pause for a bit. Her eyes were angry for a second and then Lena softly smiled.


    "Bad luck? Funny, I had always been marked with good blessing since I was born. And I''ll be sure you will be hearing these good blessing soon."


    Lena pushed her chair back as if to stand up and leave but she did not do that yet. "And in a few years, you''ll hear the laughter of our CHILDREN echoing at every corner of your home... and you won''t be able to see a single piece of hair from any one of them!"


    Lena was basically saying that the old couple were banned from visiting them or their children.


    "Blessed? More like a witch. Can''t keep the young Yang master with you so you''re are taking your chances with my Kris."


    ''My Kris...? He is mine not yours..'' Lena wanted to say but refrained herself.


    "How much did he pay you to be his fake girlfriend?"


    "You really want to know?" Lena taunted the old lady. "The first week... it was 10 million. It has been almost 6 weeks now? Hopefully you can do the math yourself."


    After Lena said that, she stood up from her chair. "I want to leave. We are not welcome here." Lena places a hand over her stomach and had a sad face.


    Old madam li opened her mouth a bit. It couldn''t be... Lena couldn''t be... pregnant already? It''s impossible especially since...


    Before she could finish her thought, Kris stood up from his chair. He put his arm around Lena waist and gave her peck on her cheek. "Ok. We can go eat something more healthy."


    He turned them both around and they walked out.


    Unexpectedly, Madam Li also has the same reaction. Except she kind of already made the other assumption that the two were seeing each other... but a baby already?!


    The thought was good but just... unexpected so soon.


    "Nina... I think you should leave too." The old lady finally spoke after the couple left.


    "Okay..."


    Nina said her goodbye to the elders and also left. She can''t believe that of all people, Kris was with Lena?!


    She worked very hard in currying favors for Old Madam Li but it looked like their relationship with Kris was not so good. Should she had went with the mother instead?


    Well, she never made a bad impression so he can try again. But she really needed to understand all the conversation from before... she was really like an outsider.


    She parked in the back so she did not meet Kris and Lena. Nina grabbed her phone and dialed someone who quickly picked up.


    "Hey. I want as much information that you can get me on the Li family. Everything okay?"


    "Yes." A voice replied.


    "And... everything on Lena Shen too."


    While everyone left, the three adults were still in the dining room. Old Madam Li looked at them both.


    "Did... did you that see that? Kris... he... and her..." Old madam Li cannot believe that Kris was so touchy with Lena.


    "Li bai, is she really pregnant?" She asked.


    "I don''t know."


    "How can you not know?! You brought her here."


    "..." madam Li really doesn''t know. "She.. she did go to see a doctor just the other day."


    The old lady gasped. "Husband. You need to use your connections to see why she went to the hospital."


    "Why does that matter, mother? You did not even like her."


    "That does not matter. If she pregnant then it''s different!"


    "...." Madam Li was speechless. This woman... she was never really bright and her husband was a arrogant man... no wonder he ended up with someone like her.

 Chapter 231 - Preparing a wedding or a funeral

    Madam Li stood up from her chair. "I hope you remember your promise."


    "You think that just because he has a girlfriend, he''ll get married anytime soon? Do the boy even love her enough? Does he even know what a marriage is?" Elder Li spoke.


    "You are doubting his healing process too much." Madam Li smiled. "If it was not for my late husband, both of us would not even consider you as family. Be thankful that all these years, the Wang family was kept in the dark about this family."


    "Are you threatening me?" He raised his voice.


    "I have threatened you many times the same way you have done to me. You have spent so many years in repent, and I hope you continue to do so and stay away from Kris'' happiness. Forcing him to forgive you won''t do you any good.


    I use to think that the only thing between you and a bullet to your head was me... but it seems like I am no longer able to control him too." Madam Li walked out towards the door but turned around for a few final words. "If I were you... I would praise the young woman like she is your lifesaver."


    Madam Li left the dining room and went back out to the front.


    Elder Li clenched his old man fists... and closed his eyes to take a deep breath.


    He knew what he did was wrong, unforgivable, and as much as he may want to repent, he knew that there are some things that you just cannot change about yourself. He was very old now, and changing habits is not as easy as if you were younger.


    He was still a selfish and arrogant man. He did threaten Madam Li, using Kris against her. There are so many things that Kris does not know yet, and keeping the boy on his watch was the safest way to protect him. Only when he was ready, will the old man be able to pass away with at least one thing that he did well.


    But, Elder Li was wary of Lena Shen. Such woman.... he did not think the day will come when Kris will have someone next to him. Only a truly strong and competent woman will be able to stand next to his grandson.... To be with a man like Kris and the Li family, it would take more than admiration or love.


    "Wife..."


    Old Madam Li looked at her husband.


    "Go to the temple tomorrow. See if her birthday is a match for his."


    "As you say so." She nodded.


    None of them really ate much during the brunch, but with all the talk, Elder Li had lost his appetite. He told the workers to clean up the dining room. He left the room and went to his work office.


    He walked up to the portrait of his only son... Li Jun. "Son.... I don''t know if I will be preparing a wedding or a funeral...."


    Elder Li closed his eyes again and took another deep breath. He sat down on his old man chair. He picked up his cell phone and dialed a number.


    "Master."


    "I need you back home, now. Drop your current assignment and come back to City A." Elder Li spoke.


    "Are you sure? Dropping my assignment now will mean that everything you work so hard in the last 5 years may be compromised."


    "It''s Kris."


    "I''ll return home immediately then."


    "And while you''re at that.... I want all the information you can get on Lena Shen."


    "...." The young man on the other side of the call did not immediately reply back. ''Lena Shen... why does that name sound familiar to him.''


    "Yes, Master." He finally replied back.


    Elder Li sighed and then hung up. He knew that asking the young man to return home will only make Kris hate him more.... but what Kris does not know... is that comparing the young man to Kris'' group of friends... only the young man will forever be Kris'' ally.


    --------


    When both Kris and Lena left the room, his hands around her waist, they did not glance back to see everyone''s shocked expressions. They went out and walked down a long hallway, back to the main entrance.


    "Why did you not tell me you were coming?" Kris spoke.


    Lena could sense irritation in his voice. She placed her hands on her eyes to cover them up and then released them like playing peek-a-boo. "Surprise!" She smiled at him.


    "Tsk.." Kris was even more irritated. He quickly pulled her waist, pushing her entire body closer to him and went for a kiss.


    However, Lena reacted quickly by putting a hand over his mouth and pushing on his chest.


    "You can''t" She whispered to him. "Your mom put a spy on me."


    Kris furrow his brows.... a spy? He did sense someone''s presence with them since they left the dining room but it was very faint. He wondered what man has such skills... and especially if the person was sent by his mother. As expected... his mom definitely has something going on her end of things.


    "Very well then." Kris released his hand on Lena''s waist and turned to walk further, without waiting for her.


    Lena knew that Kris was not in a good mood today. Not mainly due to her but also just with so many things going on today. She quickly ran after him, throttling in her heels to keep up with his pace. They turned a corner and Lena spotted something.


    At the end of the hallway, Lena saw a woman who just walked out of a room. Looked like she worked here and just got done getting some materials from the closet.


    She stepped her speed to finally catch up to her man. She grabbed his hand and pulled him.


    "What?" He looked at her.


    Lena winked at her and dragged him into the room where the worker came out of before. She quickly locked the door and put her arms around Kris. Without giving him a second to refuse, Lena planted a soft and passionate kiss on his lips.


    They were in a small laundry room. The dryer was still running. Kris was pushing against the washer as Lena softly kissed his lips. When she was about to let go, he put on hand on her waist and another on the back of her head, pushing her lips back on his, not allowing her to leave so soon.


    He flipped their position 180, so Lena was against the washer instead. He crawled his hand under her qipao skirt and grabbed her butt.


    "Ah!" Lena squeaked.


    Kris took the opportunity and stuck his tongue inside of her. Their soft passionate kissed has turned more aggressive. Kris pushed the back of her head closer to him so he can taste more of her. He did not let Lena take a break nor a moment to breath.. he continued to conquer every single piece of mouth.


    Lena did not complain and just let the man do his thing until he was satisfied. She closed her eyes and grip a bit of his hair as he kissed her senseless.


    She moaned from the great sensation that he was giving her. Kris finally stopped and pulled out satisfied tongue out of hers.


    He pulled his head back to look at how pleased Lena was. He licked his lips... removing the excess mess he did and wiped the extra saliva that seeped past his mouth from Lena''s lip.


    He put his hands on Lena''s cheek and caressed her semi-swollen lips with his thumb. Lena opened her eyes and looked at him. Kris stared into her soft pretty eyes, just looking at them. If the dryer was not so loud... it would just be them and a moment of silence.


    "I like it when you moan for me." Kris spoke in a husky deep voice. He turned his head a bit and planted a soft kissed on her lips once more. "Were you not just so shy before... hmm?"


    "I... I don''t want someone else to see me.... how f*cken sexy I can be when I am with you." Lena replied.


    Kris let out small laughter. Only Lena can make him feel better... he was glad that she was here with him today.


    "You''re right... I wouldn''t want someone to see you too... like that."

 Chapter 232 - Racing Against a Dryer Machine (R-18)

    Kris kissed Lena on the cheek again and trailed his kissed down to her neck. Lena closed her eyes again as she felt his soft lips once again on her skin. Her hands are gently placed his shoulders.


    Kris kissed and sucked on Lena''s neck but she quickly pushed his back a bit...


    "Not there... what if your mom saws that..."


    "So..."


    "...."


    Kris did not care if Lena did not respect his grandparents, because if it was him too, he would not bat them an eye. But knowing how much Lena cared about his mother too, he gave in... just for a bit longer.. after that... he would not care about anyone else. He should be free to show his love to her anywhere and everywhere.


    "Fine..." He said.


    Kris unbuttoned a few of her buttons at the top of her dress. He put a finger on her chest and slid it down until it stopped just sightly above her right breast.


    "Here." He said.


    "Okay."


    Kris smiled at her before planting his lips on the spot and locking it. He sucked on the spot and he can feel that small tingle from Lena''s breasts, even though he was not even giving them attention yet.


    Lena hugged his head as he continued to put his mark on her. She closed her eyes and arched her head back.


    "Mnnn.... that feels nice." Lena whispered.


    After a while, Kris stopped and pulled his head out. Lena looked down on where Kris planted the mark and touched it.


    Kris moved closer to her and rested his head on his neck. He gave her a few more kisses on the other side of her neck. He put one hand down her leg again and softly rubbed it up and down.


    "Kris..."


    He went back to her soft lips and kissed it. Again, Lena openly let him take in all of her and accept him entirely.


    "Ah.... Kris.. I---"


    "Mhmm...?" He continued to kiss her that Lena was not able to finish her sentence.


    He traced the bottom of her legs up to where her soft silk underwear was. He gently rubbed the silk fabric and feeling the bottom of her. Kris stopped kissing Lena.


    "Baby... you''re so wet down here."


    Lena''s face was deep red and she was still trying to catch her breath. "I know... that was what I was trying to tell you."


    Kris let off a soft chuckle... Lena was so sweet right now. He moved his body closer to her, putting his forehead to hers.... and pressed on finger up her opening, tempting her as the silk fabric still dividing their skin.


    "You want me?" He tempted her.


    "F*ck yeah." Lena did not hesitate to reply. "We''re in a laundry room though."


    "So... no one can still hear you over the noise from the dryer."


    Lena glanced at the dryer to see how much time until it was done. She knew that the worker will come back by then to fold the clothes.


    Kris glanced at the clock too to see what Lena was looking at. "What? You think I can''t make you come in that amount of time?"


    Lena looked at Kris and smiled. "No... but I would look too weak if I come in that amount of time."


    "Well.... Miss. Shen, let''s see if you can hold that long or I win." Kris smirked at her.


    He quickly picked her up and sat her butt on the washing machine. He pushed her dress up and quickly took off her underwear and left it on the floor.


    Lena arched her back a bit and held to the side of the washing machine. She spread her legs a bit wider for Kris.


    "Hurry up." Lena but her lips in tempting him.


    "Woah there... so impatient... I am still admiring you."


    "I am not the one losing time." Lena spoke.


    Kris smiled at Lena... she was so hot today. Her fiery attitude today and the current remarks she has been giving him.


    He finally his hands on her opening and gave her a soft rub. Lena arched her head back and closed her eyes from finally feeling his cold touch on her hot body. Kris could feel her squirm already from just one touch... she was exciting him too.


    He went up to her cl*t and rubbed her gently. He hit her sensational spot and Lena released a moan of pleasure. Kris continued to gently touch her down there as he moved his head closer to Lena.


    "Too quiet..." He whispered to her. "C''mon... no one will here you."


    His temptation only made Lena want to restrain her voice more... not go louder. She was not going to give in to his request so soon but he suddenly entered her craving insides with not one... but two fingers.


    "AH.... F*CK!" Lena used her right hand and wrapped it around Kris head. "Mnnnn..."


    "Does it feel good?" Kris'' finger''s slipped in and out of her vag*na...the liquids pouring out of Lena onto the washing machine and slowly dropping down to the floor. Kris quickened his pace when he knew that the dryer machine was going to be done soon.


    Lena released her drip on Kris'' head and put the hand back on the side of the machine. Kris was going in and out of her faster and she needed to restrain herself... she wasn''t going to lose to him... not today.


    "Ah... Ah..." She let a small sweet moan each time Kris goes inside of her.


    Kris pushed up her bra and grabbed her right breast with his free hand and fumbled with it. He squeezed it each time he puts his fingers inside of her. He curled his fingers, making sure to was touching the places that it can and giving Lena the pleasures she needed.


    He looked at the timer again and quicken his pace again. Lena knew that he was not racing with time. She, herself was feeling her end but she was being stubborn too. She put her hand on her mouth and restrained.


    She knew that her soft moans were only giving her man more power so she covered her mouth.


    "You''re being so stubborn today Lena..." Kris spoke as he jammed his fingers in and out of her.


    He jammed his fingers into her one last time as he squeezed her breasts and the dryer machine finally stopped drying.


    "Ahhh...." Lena finally released her last moan and squeezed her legs together, tightening her walls on Kris'' fingers too, but she did not c*m. After another few seconds, she opened her legs again to let Kris out and opened her eyes to look at him.


    "I win."


    "Tskkk..." Kris removed his fingers from inside of her... they were full of her love juice. He put them to his mouth and licked them off.


    Lena closed her eyes again and put her head up, taking deep breaths in and out.


    As she was taking her break, Kris took off his tie and outer suit. Lena was not paying attention to him because she thought that they were done... however.... her partner had other things in mind.


    She felt Kris hand on her legs as the pushed her open wider. She finally stopped relaxing and looked at him.


    "What are--- ahh..... F*ck!"


    Kris did not wait for her again and dived down to her opening again. He though that he could make her end with just his fingers but it looked like he had underestimated his stubborn woman.


    He licked her cl*t and she squirmed from his hot warm tongue on it. She was still very sensitive... her body was building up the tension that she was trying to remove just a few seconds again.


    "Ahhh.... Kris....." Lena continued to moan loudly.... forgetting that the dryer was not there to cover her voices this time. "Ahhhh...."


    "You won... but we''re not done." Kris replied before he finally stuck his tongue inside of opening.. taking in all the mess from before.


    Lena put her hands on his head and just let him continue to give her pleasures. She continued to let out her sweet voices of pleasures.

 Chapter 233 - Are you pregnant?

    Miranda was washing some towels. She looked at her watch and it was about the time that the dryer machine should be done. She walked back to the laundry room. She hummed and skipped there. She just started working here.


    Her mother had worked long in this mansion and was now retired. Miranda needed some good money to attend school so she worked here in the evening and on the weekends.


    She realized that the mansion was really big but it was really empty also. Most of the noises come from the workers. The old Li couple that lived here seemed very lonely.


    As she approached the hallway, she spotted a man near the door of the laundry room. He was standing on the door that was next to the laundry room door with his arms crossed and eyes closed.


    She had not seen him before but he might have come with the guests they had today.


    Miranda smiled at him and then continued to walk to the door. She was about to open the door but the man grabbed her arms.


    "If I were you..... I would come back at a later time."


    She glared at the man and shook her hands off from his grip. "You should mind your own business..."


    The man looked at her and then went back to where he was standing before. Miranda faced the door again... and she finally realized what the man meant.


    The noise was faint.. but if she focused on it... she could hear..


    "Ah... I''m... I''m c*mming..."


    Miranda stepped back from the door and looked at the man on the hallway. Her face was really red.


    "I... I''ll come back later." She quickly turned around and ran away from the hallway.


    ''There were so many empty rooms in this mansion... who is so bold to use a laundry room??!! And that man... what kind of man want to hear those kinds of things... he''s such a pervert!''


    As the young lady disappears in the hallway, the man looked at this watch. Those two has been in that room for a while now... they were lucky that when Madam Li came passed by... the dryer machine was still on.


    He only came out because he could hear the worker lady humming. He did not know why he even stopped her... would it matter? After not hearing any more noises from the room, he knew that they were finally done.


    He went back to his "ninja hiding."


    ----


    Lena finally reached the end of pleasures. Kris grabbed a clean towel and helped Lena dried herself.


    "Stop smiling." She scolded him.


    "What?"


    "UH!" She threw the towel at him.


    He laughed at her childish reaction right now. Just a moment she was moaning from him and now she was throwing a fit. Can she be anymore cuter today?


    "Why are you angry? If anyone is angry then it should be me." He hugged her, trying to console Lena.


    Lena finished buttoning up her qipao and made sure she was looking fine. Kris was still hugging her.


    "I am not mad. Now can you get ready so we can leave?"


    Kris gave Lena a hard kiss on her cheeks before letting her go. He grabbed his tie and Lena helped him put it back on. He put back on his outer suit and Lena made sure he was looking good... as if he was not just done giving his girlfriend a pleasure ride.


    "Now... where is my underwear? Where did you put it?"


    "Huh?" Kris looked on the floor and tried to search for it. He was sure he just threw it down here.


    "Don''t huh me...."


    "I don''t know." He replied after not finding it. He searched on the sides of the machines but it was not there too.


    "I swear if you secretly stole it again, I will beat you up."


    "Babe! I don''t have an underwear fetish... I have you... I can just steal you."


    "KRIS! Just help me find it... I am not walking around half-naked. I am wearing a qipao.. not pants."


    "Just forget it.... you won''t need it later anyway." Kris rubbed his nose.


    Lena rolled her eyes at him "You''re ridiculous."


    After a while, they did not find her underwear. Lena was furious... but she just let it go. Lena quietly opened the door and looked to see if the coast was clear before they exit out. She for sure thought the worker lady would have come back already but maybe she was wrong.


    "You didn''t think I was too loud right... it''s all your fault." Lena punched Kris on the arm. It was a rough one and he rubbed the spot gently.


    "No. If someone did, I''ll make sure to silence them clean for you." He laughed.


    However... the man that was watching them walk out of the room felt a cold chill from Kris'' laugh.... was it just him for did Kris also spot him? That can''t be right... he was the best at his job... that is... staying hidden.


    "C''mon.. you know, my mother called me 6 times already?" Kris grabbed Lena''s hand and they both rushed out.


    When they finally arrived outside, Madam Li was waiting for them on the bench. When she saw them coming out of the mansion, she stood up and walked to them.


    She looked at them... she was worried something bad happened to them but they look perfectly fine.


    "Did you both get lost?" Madam Li asked.


    "No, mother." Kris replied. "I was just trying to calm Lena down from her heat."


    Lena glared at Kris but he showed no reaction. ''This man... how dare he say something so bold...''


    Lena blinked and kept her composure. "Sorry... I was just out of the script."


    "I thought you did well." Madam Li praised her. "Since both of you are here now, we can finally leave."


    "I can send Miss. Shen home since it looked like you are more tired than me." Kris offered.


    Madam Li looked at her son. His son cannot be more obvious about how much he wanted to take Lena home. She was still not 100% sure these two were a real thing yet.


    "No. I will be sending Miss. Shen home. I will see you back at the mansion."


    Kris was about to refuse her but Lena smiled and replied first. "Thank you, Madam Li."


    Madam Li walked toward her car. She winked at Kris and gave him an ok before following Madam Li inside the car.


    Kris wanted to spend for time with Lena... but seems like he would be stuck with his mother for another day. Guessed that would be a nice time to confront her about a few things. He turned and walked toward his own car. He drove himself here today, separate from his mother.


    He got into his car. Kris glanced at his mother''s car once before he finally drove out first.


    Lena saw that Kris was already gone but they were still here. "Are we not going yet?" She asked.


    "Four is not here yet." Madam Li replied.


    ''Four.... that must be the bodyguard right?''


    Lena''s assumption was correct just as Four opened the passenger door and hopping in.


    "Sorry for being late, Madam Li."


    Madam Li did not reply back to him but just told the driver to drive.


    Lena could sense a cold and awkward environment in the car.


    "So... you lied to me about you not being with Kris."


    Lena looked at Madam Li... of course, she was not shocked to get this conversation from her. She just did not expect it to be in the car.


    "No. We were really not together back then." Lena replied honestly.


    "How long?"


    "Just past two weeks." It has only been a little over two weeks but Lena felt like they had been together for two years instead.


    "Are you pregnant?"


    Lena opened her eyes bigger. "Ah no. No I am not. We are not there."


    ''Yet...'' Four thought inside his head. Considering how bold and shameless these two people were... he was shocked that they were not there yet.


    On the other hand, Madam Li was between relieved and sad. She was sad because it would have been nice if Kris was having a child. But she was also relieved because... she, herself, was not sure about Lena yet.


    Lena was a good child... and definitely will be a good wife and daughter-in-law... in any normal family... but the Li family was far from normal. Madam Li was perfectly fine when Lena was helping Kris with stuff and she does not mind Kris having someone he loves...


    But the thought of marriage and having a life for Kris was coming sooner than she had imagined. She had prepared herself for this day... but now that it was here... Madam Li was more scared than happy.

 Chapter 234 - Woman, Marriage, Babies, all at once

    "Do you really think you can be with him?" Madam Li asked.


    "Of course."


    "He''s not as easy to handle."


    "I know."


    "Even when he pulls a gun to your head?"


    "Yes."


    "Kris... he---"


    "Madam Li." Lena interrupted her. "You''re not the first person nor the last person who will warn me about Kris. And I know that you will continue to worry about him regardless of what I say because you are his mother... but I know."


    Madam has liked Lena for a long time... she just doesn''t want the girl to be hurt nor her son if something bad did happen. A part of her is thrilled but the mother of her is afraid.


    Madam Li relaxed her insecurities and listened to what Lena has to say.


    "I know what he had done... and already imagined the worst that he can do. I know his capabilities. I know who he had killed, what type of people they are, how he killed them and with or without reason. I know the pain that was inflicted to him and the pain that he inflicted to others.


    I know... and I can feel that from the time that I have been with him. He''s not perfect and you don''t need to sell him to me nor warn me to stay away from him. Because I am not leaving him."


    Lena grabbed Madam Li''s hand and held it. "I am not perfect too... but together... we can be perfect with each other. And we''re not alone either..."


    Lena was referring to the important people in their lives like Madam Li and Kris'' friends.


    "And even if we are... it doesn''t matter, because we just need each other to be able to conquer all the things that the world will throw at us."


    Madam Li gripped Lena''s hand that was on hers. "Then don''t say I did not warn you. IF you ever hurt him... I will personally remove you from his life with my own hands."


    "I know." Lena smiled. "And I can say the same thing to you. Even if you are his mother, I will battle his own blood if that meant protecting him and giving him the happiness he deserves."


    Madam Li looked into Lena''s eyes. She can see the fire and confidence in her eyes... like a strong Pheonix flying out its wings and guarding its territory with strong mightiness. Lena would need to battle Kris'' own blood if she wanted to stay with him.


    "Now... I can say one thing for sure. And it is that I am not 100% strong enough to be with Kris in my current state... more like 90%. But I am not going to let that 10% tell me that I am not worthy nor strong enough to be with him."


    "I believe you." Madam Li spoke. "In my heart.... you are already 100%."


    ''Well... after you give me a grandchild that is...'' She wanted to say.


    Lena smiled and hugged Madam Li. "I really do love him." Lena cheerfully spoke. "But sometimes I wanna kill him too."


    Madam Li laughed with her. "Don''t we all?"


    They both laughed together and talked about Lena spending more time with them at the Li mansion.


    "Have you told your parents yet?" Madam Li asked.


    "No. Well... my mother knows that I am with someone but I have not told her yet that he is Kris Li." Lena cleared her throat. "I was hoping to bring Kris to visit them after we officially go public."


    "I think that is a good idea. If you need me to speak with your family, I can too."


    "Ah no... my family will have no rejection of Kris at all." Lena was confident of it.


    "Very well then."


    The car stopped and Lena was finally able to look where they were. She was so immersed in the conversation with Madam Li that she did not notice where they were going.


    The car stopped outside her apartment and she looked at Madam Li.


    "What? You think I did not know you were living here?"


    "Well... that was then... Kris was just trying to protect my woman''s dignity."


    Madam Li smiled. "I know. He''s a good son like that... when he wants to be, that is."


    "He is thankful to have a great mother like you."


    Lena got out of the car and closed the door. The car window was still opened.


    "Are you both living together yet?" Madam Li spoke.


    "No. Why?"


    "Hmm... I know the boy removed everyone''s access to his elevator and penthouse... I was just assuming that he did not want anyone to bother him with his... private life."


    "Ah..." Lena cleared her throat. "Did he now... I did not know that..."


    "Well, Lena... take good care of him."


    Lena nodded back at her as Madam Li closed the window and the car drove off. Lena took in a deep breath. That was easier than she thought... thankfully she was not nervous or acting weird... after all... she was still wearing no underwear.


    Kris kept texting her about if she had gotten home yet or how things were. She just replied with a heart and then head up to her house.. using the speed elevator.


    After dropping Lena off, Madam Li''s car drove her to the Li mansion.


    "Why were you late?" Madam Li asked Four.


    "I was just finishing things up as you requested."


    "And you were with Lena the entire time?"


    "No, Ma''m." Four replied... but he did not know why he lied. "I lost her when she left with Kris."


    "I see... and did you get noticed?"


    "I don''t believe so Madam.... however, I do think that Kris is getting wary of you."


    Madam Li sighed... she knew that Kris would get suspicious of her someday. Her boy was really growing up. He was in the dark for so long and now he was in the light for too long. It was nice that he is able to still see the darkness in the light.


    Kris needed to know how to spot those that are right and those that are wrong. Those who are there to help him and those who are there to harm him.


    "Don''t mind Kris. But I want you to find out why Lena visited the hospital the other day. And give me all her medical records."


    The car stopped outside the Li mansion.


    "Madam... if I may ask... why do you want all her medical records? Did you not say you trusted her?" Four questioned.


    "I do... I just need to know if she can give me grandkids or not."


    "...." Four had no reaction... of course, this was how Madam Li always was. ''Oh... I am sure she will be able to give you lots of kids... madam.''


    Madam Li opened the door herself and got out. She took off her coat and hung it before walking to the living room. She immediately spotted her son, impatiently waiting for her to get him.


    "Did you send Lena home?" Kris asked.


    "I don''t even get a welcome home?" Madam Li stared at her son who did reply back. "Yes, I sent her back to her apartment, safely and in one piece."


    Kris looked up at his mother. "So you know."


    Madam Li sat down on the sofa next to Kris. "Of course. But, were you ever going to tell me if I never found out."


    "No."


    "I was wondering why your relationship was kept so quiet.... it was because you are the one who wanted it to be so, am I right?"


    "Your selfish son just want his woman for himself for a bit. You just saw her today and you already took her away from me. This is why I need to hide her."


    "I was not complaining about that." Madam Li smiled at how sweet her son has become. "But... there is something I want to complain about."


    "...."


    "Is Lena pregnant?"


    Kris was puzzled at his mother''s question. "No. Obviously, your son is smart enough to not get a woman pregnant before marriage."


    "Pity."


    "What?"


    "It would have been nice if she really was... did you see that face of your grandmother?" Madam Li chuckled.


    "...."


    "Aiya.... you should just get married already and have babies. Scratch that... I don''t even care if you have babies before marriage, you can always get married later but babies cannot wait."


    Kris put a hand on his forehead... old ladies... When you are single, they say to get a girlfriend. And when you do, they say get married. And after that, its babies. But with his mother, its everything in one day. Woman, Marriage, Babies, all at once.


    "I can only give you one child anyways..."


    Kris broke Madam Li''s happiness as she herself remember the stupid curse of the Li family. She was supposed to be the breaker of the curse... but because the a*shole grandfather pushed another woman to Li Jun, it actually did not work.


    Because the curse also said staying faithful to one woman... and even though Li Jun was faithful to Li Bai... the act of another wife and broken relationship that they had... it did not work out in gods'' favor.


    She should go visit the temple soon and talk to the old temple lady about what she can do to still break the curse.


    "You should not worry about stupid things like that." Madam Li spoke. "After all, did she not say she was blessed?"


    "I think she was just saying that at the moment of everything."


    "Hmm..." Madam Li did not think that Lena was lying at all throughout her "acting." She wondered if Lena was truly blessed.


    But then... Old Madam Li also said something about Lena killing her sister? Madam Li should also look into that more too... After all, she won''t let the old lady bully her future-daughter-in-law.


    Kris also remembered that his grandmother also said the comment about Lena and her sister. Kris did not think about it much but he knew that the comment did hurt Lena. He should actually go make sure that was alright....


    Kris stood up and walked toward the front door.


    "Where are you going?" Madam Li shouted at him.


    "To make babies."


    "..."

 Chapter 235 - First come first server (R-18)

    When Lena got inside her apartment, she ordered some food to be delivered to her. She was not able to get a good bite before. And after all the extra things that happened today, Lena needed to replenish her energy.


    She took off her clothes and hop into the shower. After her quick shower, put on a soft rob and dried her hair. Lena looked at her phone. The food delivery service has a tracking on when it was coming and an estimated time of arrival.


    She knew the the place was busy since it just opened so she was not in a hurry. The estimated time of arrival was still half an hour.


    Lena also noticed that Hazel finally texted her about if she was going to go to the movie premiere with Lena. Lena decided to call her.


    "Hazel."


    "Hey! I have not talked to you in ages!" Hazel replied.


    "So you''ll be my date Friday night then?"


    "Sure, sure. Would not miss it for my baby."


    "Don''t call me that."


    Hazel had call Lena baby several times before... but now that Kris had been calling her that... she only wants to hear it from Kris'' voice, not anyone else.


    "Well Hello there Lena... you are so feisty today." Hazel pointed out.


    "You are correct."


    "Wanna go drinking tonight? I have no drink with you for a while now."


    "Eh...?" Lena thought about the offer. Drinking with Hazel seems like something nice to do. "I guess so... but you are picking me up."


    "Okay. I choose the place though."


    Lena was walking to her closet when she heard the elevator dinged. Madam Li said that Kris removed everyone''s else access code... so it can only be one person.


    "Hold on." Lena spoke and put Hazel on hold. She walked out of her bedroom.


    And as expected Kris was handsomely walking out the elevator door. He rushed up to her and picked her up.


    "Ah... hey hey hey. What are you doing here?" Lena screeched.


    "My mom kicked me out of the house."


    "Your mom? What did you do?"


    "Nothing." --- That was the point... he did nothing yet that was why he was "kicked out."


    Kris smelled Lena and touch her lightly wet hair. "You took a shower? You should have waited for me. But you can always take another one right?"


    "Seriously Kris... put me down." Lena scolded him.


    Kris spotted that Lena was holding her phone and he put her down. "Oh... you were on the phone?"


    "Oh...yeah." Lena just remembered that she was on the phone. "Let me finish the call and you can go shower first."


    "Nope." Kris grinned. He grabbed Lena and sat her on top of his lap as he sat on her bed. He hugged her from behind. "You can finish your call first them WE can go shower."


    "You serious?"


    Kris just continued to hug Lena and put his head on her back. He did not reply back to her. Lena shook her head in defeat.


    She put Hazel off the hold and talked to her again. "Hazel?"


    "You''re back. I was going to fall asleep waiting for you. Did something happen?"


    "No. All good. But I have to go now."


    Lena could feel that Kris was being a bad boy. He was loosening her robe and crawling his hands up her legs. She gave a small slap on his hand and he gave her a kiss on her neck.


    "Oh.. but we are still up for tonight right?" Hazel confirmed.


    "Yeah. See you soon then"


    "Kay. Bye."


    Right when Lena hung up, Kris immediately picked her up and tossed her onto her soft bed. He kissed her on the mouth for a long time before releasing her and allowing her to breathe.


    "You dare c*ckhold your boyfriend and go out with your girlfriend."


    "First come first server." Lena bit her lips, intimidating how much she though Kris was so sexy at the moment.


    "Fine... I''m booking you fulltime after you come back from your date with her."


    "Sure."


    "And we are skipping the shower because you just cut the time in by 80%."


    "Ahh!"


    Kris did not waste time to prived open Lena''s robe, exposing her fresh naked body in front of him. Kris started to remove his tie but Lena took over instead. She grabbed his tie, flipped him down so she was on top of him instead.


    Lena removed his tie and his shirt before entirely removing her rob and straddling on top of him. She hopped up and down a bit as she laughed.


    "Stop it." Kris spoke. Her movements were hurting his brother down there.


    Lena bent down low and whispered to Kris''s ear. "I want to tie you up."


    "I thought you did not like BDSM?"


    "Are you questioning me?" Lena glared at him sweetly.


    "No..." He cleared his throat. Somehow... Lena looked extra hot and sexy when she is aggressive.


    "Good." Lena smiled at him. She took his tie that she removed from him and then grabbed his arms. "Be a good boy, aye?"


    Lena gave Kris a peck on his cheeks and then tied his hand to her bed frame. She used several knots.


    "Why are you tying it so tight?" Kris was not somewhat worried.


    "Cuz... it''s more fun that way."


    Lena scooted herself back and sat on top of Kris arising rod. She put her hands on his broad empty chest and twirled her finger around his two nipples.


    Lena then gave Kris a deep french kiss, the same way he had done earlier to her. She made her way down to his crotch and grabbed his balls.


    "Lena..."


    "Shhh..." Lena spoke and kissed him again. She got a good taste of him before sitting up again and grind on his crotch.


    "Are you going to take off my pants?"


    "Not yet."


    "Ugh..." Kris complained... he was really getting turned on and there is no space for him to breath up here or down here. With his hands being tied up too.... it is definitely restraining him and making him hotter.


    Lena put her hand on his chest again and felt his sturdy abs and looked at his scars again. She put on hand on the spot that he marked on earlier and looked at his body.


    Lena wanted to the same thing to him. She trailed her finger to the spot above his nipple and then licked it with her tongue before sucking it... making sure to give him a deep mark.. the way he did to her.


    Kris let off a soft moan... as Lena continued to mark him and grind his *ss down. He closed his eyes and tried not to lose control from the sensation.


    When Lena was done giving him the perfect mark, she sat back up to look at her masterpiece. She made sure that it would stay there for a while.


    Lena finally focused back on his aching hard man rod that was screaming to be released. Lena unzipped his pants and Kris gave an expression of relief.. however, Lena stopped there.


    She loosened it enough so she put his hand down his pants and finally touched his hot and hard d*ck...


    "Lena, I swear, you are torturing me for no reason."


    Lena just looked at Kris and started rubbing his hardness from under his pants.


    "Ugh!!!" Kris moaned in frustration and pleasure.


    Lena started moving her hands faster and faster. But right when he was going to be done, her phone dinged and Lena stopped.


    "What?" Kris was breathless.


    "I think my food is here." Lena quickly got off Kris and picked up her phone. "Yep."


    Lena grabbed her quickly went to her closet to put on a dress. She grabbed some cash from her drawer.


    "Wait... you''re just going to leave me here?"


    Lena looked back at Kris who was almost at a climax, tied to her bed. "Yep."


    "Lena!" Kris shouted at her. He was sexually frustrated and in pain. She was torturing him....


    Lena got her cash and walked up to the bed to give Kris a kiss. "Don''t break the bed, okay? I''ll be back soon."


    "You planned this from the start! That''s why you tied me up... ugh!"


    Lena blew Kris a kiss and closed the bedroom door as she rushed down to the floor level to go get her food.

 Chapter 236 - Make room for her

    "AHHH!!!" Kris yelled from the bed. "F*CK!"


    He would have just whacked his hand out free and break the bed frame but he didn''t. Lena said he should be a good boy. He scooted up and untied himself.


    After he freed himself, he removed his pants and finally free his manhood. He looked at the bedroom door and chuckled.


    Kris was not mad at Lena... it is this wild and torturous attitude of hers that he was attracted too. He ruffled his head and just hopped into the shower. He could have finished it himself... but why should he... he has Lena.


    He was kind of at fault too... lately he had been all over her too. He was here to make babies... but that does not have to be today.


    He hopped into the shower and turned it down to the coldest and just stood under the shower. He did not know how long he was in the shower before the heat died down. But when he got out and walked out of the bedroom, Lena was already in the dining room, setting up food for both of them.


    "Your clothes are in the other room." Lena spoke to him but continued to set the table.


    "Why is it not in your room?" Kris dried his hair with a small towel.


    "Cuz... my closet don''t fit your clothes and my clothes."


    "Hmmm." Kris turned around and walked to the other guest room. He opened the smaller closet there and saw that Lena did buy him lots of clothes. He smiled at them, having forgotten a bit what she just did before to him.


    He grabbed a comfortable outfit and put it on. He had not thought about how much clothes Lena had... he would need to remodel his penthouse just to make room for her. Or maybe.. he should just buy a new place for both of them.


    Somewhere more private and homey for just both of them... but then... they would move into the LI mansion anyways when they get married. He''ll think about it and talk to Lena about it when the times is near.


    He closed the door to the guest room and walked out back to Lena. She was already dishing out the rice onto their plates. She keeps taking a bite of the food as she finished setting the table.


    Kris walked up to her and hugged her from behind. He gave her a peck on her cheek.


    "You were so mean to me..." He complained.


    "Are you mad?"


    "No."


    "I was jealous," Lena answered him.


    "Jealous?" Kris was confused. What is she jealous about? Who?


    Lena turned around and put her arms around his neck. "My first time is going to a pain in the *ss and you get to feel all the good sh*t so yes, I am jealous. So that''s why you should feel a bit of pain right now."


    Kris laughed and pinched her nose. "You silly girl. If you''re so jealous about that, then you can torture me some more if that makes you happy."


    Lena pouted her lips and then gave Kris a kiss on his lips. "Sorry..."


    Kris kissed her back. "Apology accepted."


    "Kris."


    "Hmm?"


    Lena looked directly at Kris'' eyes. "I am ready."


    Kris looked at her eyes too. He knew what she meant by ''I am ready.'' He smiled at her as her cheek blushed a bit. He kissed her on her forehead.


    "Okay."


    "Just okay?"


    "Well, yeah. What do you want? We can do it now if you want to but you''re leaving with Hazel soon."


    "Not now... I just wanted you to know." Lena replied.


    "I know." Kris pulled Lena to a hug, putting her head on his chest. "I know..."


    He grabbed her hand. "I was going to wait until tomorrow but I guess it doesn''t matter if I do it now." Kris lead Lena back to the bedroom and picked up his pants. He went into the pocket and grabbed out a small jewelry box.


    "Wait! You''re not proposing to me right?!" Lena spoke.


    "No... It should be a bit more romantic than this... But if I were to.. would you say no right now?" Kris asked.


    "No. I would say Yes." Lena replied.


    Kris smiled at her. He opened the box and it reveals a small set of rings. One simple ring for a man and another simple ring with just one diamond in the middle.


    "It''s a promise ring." Kris picked up the one for Lena and put it on her left hand. "It''s a bit early to propose, but I wanted you to have something special. You don''t have to wear it on your hand, I also brought a chain necklace with it."


    When Kris finished putting it on her finger, she held out her hand and looked at it. "It''s pretty. Let me give you yours."


    Lena grabbed his ring out from the box and put it on his finger. Lena held his hand and looked at it.


    "What is it?" Kris asked.


    "Hm.... You actually match wearing this."


    Kris chose a black ring set for both of them. He knew that he would not really look good on any other color... and he knew that Lena would look on any color so he picked something more fitting for him. He wanted to make sure it was something he can wear and proudly show.


    "The color is not too dark for you right?" He pointed out.


    "Nope. I like it. It will remind me of you every time."


    "C''mon... let go eat the precious food that you left for me."


    Lena laughed and followed Kris out to the dining room as they ate together. After she was done, she got ready for going out with Hazel. Kris helped Lena picked an outfit and they both just watched the new together until Hazel called Lena that she was here.


    "Make sure not to drink too much," Kris told Lena as she walked to the elevator.


    "Mhm."


    "And don''t come home too late."


    "Yes."


    "I love you, Lena."


    Kris spoke as the elevator door closed. Lena quickly pressed the open door button again and it opened. She stepped out and gave Kris a goodbye Kris.


    "I love you too." She walked back to the elevator. "And please, don''t burn the house down."


    When Lena arrived at the ground floor, Hazel was already parked out front. She beeped the car as Lena walked toward her.


    "Hey girl! What took you so long?!"


    "..." Lena did not reply. She hopped into the car and Hazle quickly drove out.


    Hazel took them to a new high-end bar. Most of the people here looked like they were people who were heard to get hooked up with someone.


    Hazel ordered some drinks for them as they sat at the front of the bar. Hazel was quite well known but the place was for many well known and rich people.


    As Lena and Hazel were drinking, a few men approached them. Usually, when Hazel and Lena go out for drinks... they just want to drink, not hit on guys.


    "Hey... can we buy you both some drinks?"


    They both ignored the offer and continued to drink their own drinks and talked about shopping.


    "Didn''t expect to see Hazel Yang here today. And you too, Lena Shen."


    Lena finally looked at the two men and smiled at them. "I actually love free stuff," Lena replied.


    "But...." Lena put up her left hand and waved her new fancy ring. "My boyfriend wouldn''t like it if he knew that someone bought me some drinks."


    The men cleared their throat. Lena''s ring was not big... but any rich person knew that the diamond on her ring was extremely rare and expensive.


    "AH... I didn''t know Miss. Shen was taken so soon... well you are so pretty. Congradulatinshion." The men quickly left them.


    "Tsk... I swear we can never drink without people coming up to us. When did you think about wearing a ring to chase men away? You really went expensive to fake a relationship."


    Lena took a sip of her drink. "Who said it was fake? I really have a boyfriend."


    Hazel put her drink down and looked at Lena. Lena continued to casually drink.


    "AAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!" Hazel screamed and several people looked at them. "OH MY GOSH!"


    Hazel knew that Lena was not lying. She grabbed her left hand and looked at Lena''s ring. "Who is he? Why did he give you such a small ring? F*ck, how expensive is this? SHould he not know we like big rings and expensive ones? Is he hot? Did you do it yet?"


    "Hazle." Lena pulled her hand back. "It''s just a promise ring."


    "OH MY LORD!" Hazel was shocked. "Promise? Man... then how expensive would your engagement ring be? And then your wedding ring too? You got it good... you aimed high again didn''t you?"


    "It''s not his money..."


    "Yes, yes... it''s his abs."


    Lena cleared her throat. "Not really..."


    "His little.... or BIG thing.. huh? Is it that? You finally ate real meat right?"


    "Hazel...."


    "Ah C''mon. I am dying to know who he is."


    "You will."


    "Is it Ming Zhou?" Hazel asked.


    Lena frowned at her. "No..."


    "Rich... rich... who is rich? Is it Tyler Huang?"


    "NO!"


    "Damn I was sure it was him. There are rumors about you and him."


    "What?! Really?"


    "Yeah... someone saw you at his hotel room or something. But the picture was removed shortly after it was posted."


    Lena tilted her head. She did not hear about it at all... was it Kris? She smiled. Her man was always protecting her.


    "Is he foreign? Must be... I don''t know rich foreign people except for stars... oh wait.. it is a pop star?"


    "No."


    "Ugh... I just have to wait... right?"


    "Mhm..." Lena chugged her drink and ordered another one.

 Chapter 237 - Excuses, excuses

    While Lena was having her girl''s night, Kris went back up to his penthouse to grab himself a drink too. He sat in his office and looked through some important documents.


    After a few minutes, his phone started to ring. He glanced over and saw "Nerd" popped out. He stopped reading and picked up the call.


    "What is it?"


    "You sound grumpy... did I interrupt you?" Gary spoke.


    "No. What do you need?"


    "Is Lena with you? I tried to call her but seems like she''s busy."


    "She''s not with me. She''s out with Hazel."


    "No wonder you''re grumpy."


    "What are you implying..." Kris raised his voice.


    "Nothing... that''s not why I called." Gary replied. "Have.... Lena made new enemies recently?"


    "No. You see something wrong in your magical world?"


    "It''s not magical... and yes, some red flags. Her name has been popping up lately on my alert system. She must have pissed some bad people, they are really digging her information up."


    "Block them." Kris demanded.


    "Already did. I only allowed taking the simple information so it doesn''t look too obvious."


    "Have you trace who is searching for her information?"


    "I did... well found one out of three. The other two are a bit smarter but I''ll find them." Gary answered. "You want the name?"


    "...." Obviously, he wanted the name.


    "Hacker name Warp, the Real name Daniel Han, college drop-out but definitely made a name in the hacker society."


    "I don''t need the name of the hacker, I need to know who is paying him."


    "I know... stop ruining my moment of intelligence."


    "...."


    "There was a wire transfer to his account an hour ago. I traced it to a company offshore account. Long Law firm? You know anything about that?"


    "I do."


    Kris could hear his elevator ding which means that Lena was probably home and looking for him.


    "You want me to do anything?" Gary asked.


    "No. It''s a women''s battle."


    "What does that ----"


    Kris hung up the call on Gary before he could finish his sentence. Lena opened the door to his office. Kris stood up and walked toward Lena.


    "Did you just get home?"


    "Yeah, I didn''t see you so I expected you to be up here." Lena yawned. "Were you on the phone?"


    "Nothing important." Kris grabbed Lena''s left hand, looked at the beautiful ring on her finger and kissed it. "You didn''t drink too much right?"


    "No... but I am going to go shower and get ready to sleep. I am tired."


    "Ok."


    Lena parted from him and walked to his bedroom. Kris closed his laptop and carried his work with him back to his room.


    "Do you have any clothes for me yet?"


    Kris paused and looked at Lena. "No."


    Lena looked back at him. She prepared many things for him but he was just still him. She smiled and grabbed the towel and head to the bathroom.


    "You don''t need any clothes if you''re staying with me." Kris shouted.


    "Mhmm.... excuses, excuses." Lena shut the bathroom door and Kris could hear the shower running after a few minutes.


    He chuckled. He placed his work on the desk in his room and get back to looking at his documents.


    When Lena was done showering and finished blow-drying her hair, she walked out to see Kris very focused on his work. She walked up to him and hugged him from the back.


    "Going to sleep first. Don''t stay up too late." Lena spoke.


    Kris turned his head a bit just so he can give Lena a goodnight kiss. "Just finishing things up so we can go on a date tomorrow."


    "Oh? That sounds nice."


    "You''re tired so go to bed. I won''t be here long. I know you can''t sleep on my bed unless I am there."


    "As long as you know your woman and your bed." Lena gave him another peck on the lips and crawled into Kris'' hard bed.


    She pulled up the blanket on her and closed her eyes. Usually, she would never fall asleep on such an uncomfortable bed, but the alcohol must be getting to her a bit and she fell asleep after a while.


    Kris finished his work and reading his documents. He put them away safely and then crawled to bed. Lena was already asleep and huddled into her cacoon, hogging all the blanket. It was not cold but Lena liked having a blanket and being warm.


    Kris tugged the blanket off her, pulled her into his arms and covered both of them in the blanket. Her unconscious body could sense his presence and pushed herself closer to him. He kissed Lena on the forehead before closing his eyes and falling asleep with her.


    ----


    When Lena woke up the next morning, it was already 10 a.m. Kris was not by her side and she noticed that she was completely naked!


    Lena was sure she put on one of Kris'' shirt before she went to bed... unless she did something bad yesterday... but that can''t be... she was not even drunk. Lena tried to recall the events of after going to bed but nothing seemed to come to her mind.


    "Morning." Kris opened the bedroom door and walked over to Lena.


    "Did you take off my shirt?"


    "You mean MY shirt. And yes I did." Kris replied as crawl into the bed and hugged his naked Lena, who was half-covering herself with the blanket. "You were very hot in the middle of the night so I removed your shirt."


    "..."


    "Hot.. like a warm baby... not the other hot. But you are that kind of sexy hot too." Kris kissed her open nape.


    Lena pushed him away from her and got up from the bed. "Stop teasing me, didn''t you say we were going on a date?"


    Lena grabbed one of his robes and put it on.


    "Yeah. And I also made you breakfast." Kris spoke.


    Lena looked back at him. She sniffed, trying to guess what Kris cooked. "Hmm... eggs and bacon?"


    "Yes. Western breakfast is easier for me...unless you prefer another type of breakfast." Kris smirked at Lena.


    "No." Lena walked out of the room and head to the kitchen.


    Kris followed her out. "I already ate so you can eat but I can go get you some clothes."


    "Ok. But please choose something appropriate."


    "No promises." Kris replied and then went down the elevator as Lena sat in the dining room and ate her breakfast.


    The egg was cooked to a good texture. The bacon was a bit crispy but it was still good. Lena drank some fresh orange juice that Kris squeezed for her. After she was done, she headed to the bathroom to brush her teeth and get ready for the day.


    At least Kris had a toothbrush for her.


    After a while, Kris came back and he brought her a nude floral loose short with a pink plain top. He also brought along a pair of her laced flat sandals.


    Lena tied her hair to a nice loose bun and got dressed. Kris stayed in the room and looked at Lena get ready from start to finish. He was admiring every single perfection in her.

 Chapter 238 - Lost her voice

    Both of them head down to the parking lot together. Like last time, Kris was not giving Lena any clues on what they were going to do today. Kris blindfolded Lena as he drove them to their destination.


    It took a while before Lena could sense that they were near. She noticed that the car was slow, probably due to the traffic. From her senses, she could tell that they were going somewhere busy.


    Finally, after some car beeping and slow speed bumps, Kris parked the car.


    "We''re here." Kris spoke.


    "Ah... finally. I can see your handsome face again."


    Kris laughed. He got out of the car first and opened the door for Lena. He guided her out of her seat. "Guess where we are?"


    "Um... the zoo?"


    "Eh... " Kris went behind Lena and slowly removed the blindfold from her. He parked a bit further from the entrance so Lena could not hear the noises.


    When Lena''s eye saw sunlight again, it quickly adjusted to the brightness. "This is..."


    "An amusement park." Kris finished her sentence for Lena. "We had never been to one so we should be youthful before you get big and fat."


    Lena looked at Kris. She knew he meant big and fat as in when she starts popping kids for his left and right. He was right... if Lena wanted a big family, her time would be spent on her family and children.


    Lena grabbed Kris hand and rushed to the entrance. "C''mon hurry! We have to go to the biggest ride first."


    Kris quickly stepped up his pace to keep up with Lena.


    "Did you buy the VIP tickets?" Lena asked him as they approach the ticket booth.


    "No..." Kris replied. "Don''t people want the normal one... so they can experience it the normal way?"


    Kris read somewhere that the girl doesn''t want VIP fast pass tickets and only the normal tickets so they can experience the true life of being at an amusement park.


    "Normal? Who would want to wait an hour and a half for a single ride? We got no time. Go upgrade your tickets."


    Kris smiled at how demanding Lena can be sometimes. He went up to the ticket booth, showed his receipt of the tickets he bought online and asked for a VIP upgrade.


    After the lady gave Kris'' his wristband, he walked back to Lena. He reached for her left hand and put the wristband on Lena. She was wearing her ring today and so did he.


    Lena helped Kris put on his wristband afterward. Kris held Lena''s hand and walked to the amusement park.


    However, Lena quickly stopped her footsteps.


    "Should we wear some sunglasses... we might attract too many people." Lena pointed out.


    "It''s fine. We''re not superstars." Kris stepped up closer to Lena. "And we did say that if people know.. then they just do. And it''s about time we just let the world know."


    Lena smiled at him. "Ok."


    Kris started walking again. He had the map so Lena followed him. She wanted to ride the biggest roller coaster first.


    The reached the roller coaster. It was one of the steepest roller coasters in Asia and it had two upside-down twists. Lena and Kris went through the fast pass entrance and only waited 3 minutes before it was their turn.


    As Lena sat down next to Kris and they buckled in their body, Lena could feel the adrenalin and fear crawling up her body.


    "Oh my gosh.... this is going to be so scary." Lena bit her teeth and looked at Kris.


    "As long as it''s fun and enjoyable for you." Kris replied. He was not scared. He did not know what to expect anyways.


    "I fore warn you... I am a screamer."


    "That... I know very well."


    The roller coaster was starting to move. It first went down a small steep to start and then suddenly it slowed down as the roller coaster climbed up to the highest step.


    "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, OH MY GOSH!" Lena was really feeling the nervousness in her hands. She looked down and they were really high up. "I don''t think I am going to like this.... AHHH...."


    "We''re not even up there yet..."


    "Don''t pressure me!"


    At the back of the roller coaster, Lena could hear a man crying from the height. But before she could register the rest of it, the roller coaster fell.


    "AHHHHHHH!!!!!"


    Lena immediately held tightly to her handle and scream at the top of her lungs. She could feel her organs jump and float before they finally reached the bottom. The roller coaster continue to go at high speed, making it''s first upside-down twist, through a dark tunnel and then the second twist.


    Lena continued to scream throughout the ride. When it finally ended, her hair came loose and she was thrilled.


    "Let''s go again!" Lena grabbed Kris hand and they went back to the line.


    Kris was happy that she was enjoying this. He thought it was an interesting feeling. It was definitely fun but he could tell that his excitement was not to Lena''s level.


    As she commanded, they went on it a second time, and a third, before they finally went on a different ride.


    After two more roller coaster rides, Lena lost her voice from screaming too much. Kris told Lena that they were not going on any more heavy-duty roller coasters.


    "Your vocal cords are already bad enough, we don''t need to damage it some more." Kris teased Lena.


    "Shut up." Lena replied... but her voice was small and squeaky.


    "Here, let''s go get you something cold to drink to relax your voice and get something to eat."


    Kris held Lena''s hand and they went to get something cold to drink and have some food. After they were done, Kris and Lena walked around and went on the small rides.


    As they walked, Lena looked up to see the Ferris wheel up ahead. Kris glanced at her and noticed where she was staring too.


    "You want to ride that next?"


    Lena looked up at him. "Yes."


    "Ok." He tightened his grip on her hand and they both walked to the Ferris wheel.


    Even though they had a fast pass, the Ferris Wheel was popular so they had to wait a bit.


    It was about to be their turn but then Kris cellphone rung. They both had turned off their cellphone but it was his emergency ringtone... and only that would get pass the silence mode.


    Kris looked at Lena... she smiled at him to say that it was okay for him to picked up the call.


    "What is it?" He answered.


    There was a muffled voice over the call but Lena could not make out the conversation but she could see that something was bad. Kris happy reaction turned dark and his there was anger building up from him.


    "Are you sure?" Kris spoke over the phone.


    Kris and Lena were still in line. Lena knew that it was probably time to go home... she held his hand while he was still on the phone and walked them out of the line. She sat on a bench while Kris walked a bit further away to talk on the phone.


    Lena was a bit worried... she did not like the darkness that was surrounding Kris. After a while, Kris finally hung up the call and walked over to Lena.


    "You have to go?" Lena quickly asked him.


    "It''s not an emergency."


    "But... you should still go."


    "It''s our date though..."


    "It''s fine. My feet are getting sore and my voice is a hurting always."


    Kris walked up closer to Lena and kissed her on the forehead. "Alright then."


    They both walked back to the car and Kris drove them back to the apartment. Although Kris said it was not an emergency, Lena could tell that something bad must have happened. He was driving faster than usual, but careful as always.


    Kris drove to the front to drop Lena off. Lena moved in and gave Kris a kiss on the lips before getting out of the car.


    "Are you going to come home tonight?" Lena asked.


    "I don''t know... don''t wait up though. You still have work tomorrow. If I don''t come back tonight, I''ll visit you during your lunch."


    "Ok." Lena smiled at him. She turned around and started to walk into the building.


    "Lena." Kris called out to her and she stopped and turned back to look at him. "Are you not going to ask?"


    "You will tell me about it when you come back." Lena replied.


    Kris watched Lena until he could no longer spot her. He focused back on driving and sped his way to where he needed to be. When he reached the building, he quickly got out. Collin was already outside waiting for him.


    "Where is he now?" Kris questioned Collin.


    "Inside."


    "I am talking about Keso."


    "Both of them are inside." Collin replied. "I can''t get in."


    Kris stopped walking and turned to look at Collin. "And Tye?"


    "He''s coming. Should be here in a few minutes."


    Kris sighed. He quickly continued to walk until he reached a heavily secured door. But before he could even take the time to crack down the door security, it opened.


    Kris walked in and Collin trailed close to him. They reached a big wide open room. Immediately, Kris saw Keso who was barely standing, his face was clearly beaten up but he was holding his position.


    Kris immediately looked at the other person in the room. The man was a bit taller than Kris but his body structure was much less than him. The man has a red scar on his neck, very visible if not covered up by something.


    "Ace." Kris spoke.


    The man looked at him but did not reply, instead, he just smiled at Kris.


    "You think beating up my bodyguard means you get a free pass inside again?" Kris spoke once more.


    "I still don''t understand why you keep such useless people around you... brother." Ace walked up to Kris.


    "Why are you even here?"


    "Of course I am here for you..... and your new woman... I heard."


    "The old man asked for you?" Kris laughed. "You''re still a dog to that man..."


    "You''re wrong." Ace stopped teasing around and firmly spoke to Kris. "We are brothers, Kris. Even if not by blood, you know very well our bond is stronger than any of those fake people you have been with. I am merely here for a good cause."


    "You''re not needed here nor are you welcomed."


    "Really?" Ace laughed. "You might not need me... but maybe your girl does."


    "Lena does not need you."


    "And yet.... you are here. You left her alone, didn''t you?"

 Chapter 239 - My future sister-in-law

    Kris''s heart stopped a bit when Ace mentioned Lena.


    "So..." Kris was not going to let Ace tempt him. "She''s a big girl, she can take care of herself."


    Ace patted Kris on the shoulder. "Oh I am sure the woman you choose to be with is wonderful. I am also sure she''ll be able to chase out any woman that comes near you. But...." Ace stepped back away from him. "Can she handle the women that are from our world?"


    Kris chuckled. "I am not like you Ace, I don''t leave my targets capable of coming back for revenge."


    "That''s right, but I am not talking about your targets, only those that are closest to you. After all, your real enemies are the ones closest to you." Ace looked at Keso, and then at Collin.


    Kris sensed that Tye was finally here. He looked over at the doctor who was rushing in with his emergency bag.


    "Take Keso away. You leave with them too." Kris was directing toward Collin.


    Collin did not want to leave but what Kris said goes...


    When they all left, Kris gave his attention back to Ace.


    "Ace.... you''re the second person that I didn''t choose to shoot, so stay away. There won''t be a next time." Kris patted Ace''s shoulder this time.


    Kris turned around and started to walk out.


    "You know that I never betrayed you, brother. Not once have I told your grandfather about Hugh."


    Kris stopped his footsteps and turned to look at Ace. "I don''t care what you told the old man. And don''t call me brother, we are no longer brothers."


    "You''ve changed... after you met Hugh. Even before your mother came along." Ace walked quickly and blocked Kris'' path. "Have you forgotten all the things that we went through together? The training we did and all the blood that we shed together. It was a dark place, Kris... but we had each other. You can pretend that you no longer need me, but I know... we''re inseparable."


    "You could have left with me..." Kris replied.


    "No, I couldn''t. I was not strong like you. YOu think that I chose to stay... but I think you left me." Ace chuckled. "So tell me... how does it feel like to be loved? Lena... that was her name right... how does it feel to touch her? Soft...?"


    "Don''t mutter her name" Kris pushed Ace aside and started walking toward the exit.


    "Do you think I''ll be able to hug her too? I want that too."


    Kris stopped again, but this time he landed a straight punch to Ace''s face. Ace faltered back and hold his position. He touched it lips that got cut from Kris'' punch.


    "Your grandfather thinks that love had made you weak... but I know it''s the exact opposite."


    "Stay away from her, Ace. Final warning."


    Kris glared at the man and then left him alone in the building. Ace licked the blood from his lips and smiled. "I only wanted to meet my future sister-in-law. You want me to stay away from her... but how can I when she is in danger? I will protect you and everything you love Kris... so at least one of us can be happy."


    As Kris left, he quickly pulled out his phone and check the security system of the apartment and his penthouse. He was quite thankful that he did the upgrade on Lena''s apartment.


    He found nothing suspicious. And with Gary updating the system too, it should be flawless. Even the best should not be able to get in unless they used heavy weaponry.


    His cameras spotted Lena on his sofa, lying on the couch and watching some late-night romance drama. He considered calling her but then he remembered that Keso was injured. He walked out to Tye''s car where he was treating Keso.


    "How are you?" Kris touched Keso''s shoulder and he groaned in pain. "Opps, sorry."


    "His shoulder got dislocated. I fixed it but it will still be painful. He has a cracked rib and some bruises all over the body but... he''s Keso so he will be fine." Tye explained.


    "Take the week off to recover."


    Keso looked at Kris... he wanted to reject but he knew that in his state, he was no use being around the boss. He nodded.


    "What are we going to do about Ace?" Collin asked.


    "We don''t have to do anything about him. I will take care of him myself. I want all of you to stay away from him." Kris commanded. "Especially Hugh. Ace is here on a personal agenda, his attention is on me. The less you care about him, the less he would care about you too."


    "Understood." Collin replied.


    "Take Keso with you, Tye. And Collin, you will have to oversee Keso''s work until he is better. I know you have your wedding to plan, but you can do it, right?"


    "Yes. Don''t worry... Stella is taking full charge of it."


    "Then, I''ll be going home first." Kris smiled and walked to his car.


    Kris actually stopped at a place first before returning home. By the time he got back, it was past midnight.


    Lena was already asleep on his bed. Kris went to shower and get ready for bed.


    He slowly removed the blanket and crawled in bed with Lena.


    "Hey.." Lena could feel him. She moved closer to him, and cuddled in closer to him.


    "Did I wake you?"


    "No... I couldn''t sleep well without you anyway.. on your bed that is."


    Kris hugged her closer and kissed her forehead.


    "Everything okay?" Lena asked.


    "Yeah. Go back to sleep."


    "Mhm..." Lena mumbled and fell asleep again. This time, she slept without a sense in the world knowing Kris was next to her.

 Chapter 240 - The talk of pregnancy.

    The next morning when Lena woke up, Kris was already gone. She lightly rubbed her eyes and touched the side of the bed where Kris slept. It was already cold... the sun was not up yet but he was gone.


    How much sleep did the guy even get? Lena stretched her arms and got off the bed. She went to get ready for the day.


    Lena woke up early so she made a light breakfast and packed lunch. She also packed one for Kris so she can go visit him later on.


    One thing Lena found out this morning was that her voice was completely.... dead. She did not have any meetings today so she could still go to work and do some paperwork.


    James picked her up early in the morning and they went to SHYNE company.


    The Shen Annual party was in two weeks, and the partnership release date for LUX x SHYNE was in about three weeks.


    The clothes were already in production and would be finished by the end of this week. The models can begin wearing them and the promotion process would start.


    When Lena arrived to work, she felt like there were extra eyes on her. She wanted to keep glancing over her shoulder but would that make it too obvious?


    She shrugged and continue going to her office. Lena already informed Diane about her condition today. She would not be receiving any calls.


    Lena had just sat down and got her paperwork set up on her table when Diane knocked on the door.


    "CEO Shen is coming up."


    "What?" Lena''s tiny voice screeched.


    After a minute, Lena heard the elevator door dinged and her father quickly got out. He immediately went to Lena''s office, kicked Diane out and closed the door.


    Lena did not say a word.


    "When were you going to tell me?"


    "About?" Her tiny voice replied.


    "You... what happened to your voice?"


    "Nothing."


    "Don''t tell me nothing." Shen Mao approached Lena and check her throat. "It Is him isn''t it. Look at how much he worked you."


    "Who?"


    "This!" He flicked up his phone and Lena saw the perfect captured photo of Kris and her at the amusement park.


    Lena scrolled down the article and it had lots of other sweet photos of them.


    "How long did you stay up with him, hmmm? What did you both do all night? Your voice is dead." Shen Mao lifted Lena''s head a bit and looked at her eyes.


    "Your eyes are tired... what kind of monster is he? He should take responsibility. How far did you go? That bastard!"


    "That bastard is my grandson." A harsh cold voice sounded from the door.


    Both Lena and her father turned to look at Elder Li who was at the door. Lena spotted Diane who was feeling guilty and sad like she totally got yelled by the old man.


    "Chairman Li." Shen Mao quickly greeted him. "Your grandson has no respect for the elders."


    "..." Lena was quiet.


    She too really did not respect Kris grandparents also. First of all, why is Elder Li here?


    Elder Li walked up to Lena and looked at her carefully. "That boy... doesn''t he know that he shouldn''t be going so rough on you when you''re pregnant?"


    Shen Mao and Diane''s mouth dropped. "Pregnant?!"


    "How far along are you?" Shen Mao asked.


    "I¡ª" before Lena could finish, her dad spoke to Elder Li.


    "Chairman Li, your son is a bastard. How can he disgrace our daughter like this and not take responsibility?!"


    "I am very sorry, CEO Shen. I just fairly recent figured it out too. I was going to take him and come to visit you and your family tonight."


    "Things have gotten this far, we should get them married before the bump shows or both our families would be shameful."


    "Ahh! Stop it." Lena''s tiny little broken voice shouted. "I AM NOT PREGNANT!!!"


    "But you visited an OB-GYN doctor a few days ago." Elder Li spoke. "The report even said you went to get a pregnancy check-up."


    "What?" Lena did not go for that. She went to get prescribe birth control medicine... there was no pregnancy checkup.


    "Lena, you don''t have to lie. I am not mad at you. Your mother would not be too."


    "I am really not pregnant!" Lena''s voice was dying each time she talked more. "Ugh!!"


    Lena grabbed her phone and texted an emergency message to Kris. He quickly called her but she handed the phone to Diane.


    Diane understood the gesture and talked with Kris.


    "My grandfather is there?"


    "Yes, sir. He.. he is saying Miss is pregnant but she is saying she is not. Her father is also here."


    "..." Kris sighed. "Give the phone to my grandfather."


    Diane politely gave the phone to Elder Li, saying that Kris was on the other line. The old man stepped out to have his conversation while Lena quietly sat with her father.


    Shen Mao kept looking at Lena.. especially her stomach.


    Lena glared at her father and turned away from him.


    After a few minutes, Elder Li came back to the room.


    He apologized to Shen Mao. "I am sorry. It seems like my information was incorrect."


    "Lena is not pregnant?" Shen Mao was sad.


    Diane came back to the room and brought fresh fruits and water for everyone. They all sat in silence to eat and waited for Kris to come.


    There was a moment of awkward silence before Elder Li spoke again. "CEO Shen, regardless, I think the two should still get married. After all, they are already living together."


    "What?" Shen Mao looked at Lena.


    "No." Lena replied.


    "You are saying that if I go to your apartment right now.. there is not a single item of his in your apartment."


    Lena lowered her head and did not reply.


    "We will get marry on our own terms." Kris opened the door and replied.

 Chapter 241 - Just get married

    It had been difficult to not be able to speak and express Lena''s thoughts. She sighed in relief knowing that Kris was here.


    Shen Mao and Elder Li looked at Kris. He walked over and greeted them.


    "Good morning CEO Shen and grandfather..." Kris did not want to call the old man that, but he was putting up a face in front of Shen Mao.


    Shen Mao cleared his throat. He had met with Kris Li before, but this was the first time he did not feel like he was going to die.


    "I sincerely apologize for all the misunderstanding and not being able to come to visit the Shen family. We both knew that our families would rush the idea of marriage if they knew about us. Hence we kept it to ourselves for awhile. We just want to do things our own way. We are both responsible adults. We hope that both families would understand the situation."


    Shen Mao cleared his throat. "I... I am not rushing a marriage. I just want to know that you are not just playing around with my daughter. She had been through enough."


    "I can assure you that I am not playing with your daughter, CEO Shen. She is the first woman to be by my side and she will be the only wife I would take." Kris sat down by Lena and held her hand.


    Lena looked at him and smiled.


    "I know that words can be empty with no actions. If it makes you feel better, Lena and I can get engage and we can get married when we want to."


    "...." Shen Mao did not reply.


    "Lena had just finished college. She is just starting her career and enjoying her life. I don''t want to yet bound her to the life of marriage. She should feel free for a while before she starts her own family." Kris spoke.


    "Don''t get engage." Shen Mao replied.


    Both Kris and Lena looked at Shen Mao. Was he not accepting their relationship?


    "My Lena... she has been in an engagement most of her life. We both know how that ended. I don''t want her to be stuck in one again. I am fine with whatever you both are doing... as you said, you are both responsible adults."


    Lena looked at her father and started to get teary but didn''t cry. She lets go of Kris'' hold on her hand and instead held her father''s hand.


    "Dad..."


    "I hope Chairman Li can agree with me."


    Elder Li looked at Shen Mao. Of course, he does not agree... he wants them married and start having children already. But, he cannot go against anyone here. He just smiled and nodded.


    "So don''t get engaged. When you are both ready to get married, just get married. These days... you can always have a ceremony after you are married."


    "Thank you, CEO Shen."


    "Ahahah..." Shen Mao chuckled. "You are family now... you should just call me Father and get use to it."


    "Well then, thank you, father."


    Shen Mao smiled proudly. It was nice having such an elite young man called him father. It made him feel proud and strong.


    "That said." Shen Mao turned to Lena. "You... stop being so stubborn. If your voice is gone, stay home and rest. I know you are just like your mother, as long as you can still breath, you will work, work, and work. You have so many people who worry about you now... don''t make us all grow white hair worrying about you."


    Lena softly laughed. It was true, even if Kris had told her to stay, she would of went to work anyways. It''s just her voice... it''s not like her throat hurts or her legs are broken.


    "And you should come home with Kris this weekend. And, you should come too, Chairman Li. Your entire family should come for dinner at our house this weekend."


    Kris smiled dropped and he gave his grandfather a death glare which Shen Mao did not see. However, Elder Li definitely can sense it. He knew that Kris did not want his ungrateful grandparents anywhere near Lena nor her family.


    However... how can he let such a good chance to be with his grandson go?


    "Well of course. My old lady and I shall come."


    "Great! I should get going then."


    "I should too..." Elder Li spoke.


    Everyone said their goodbyes and left. Only Kris and Lena was left. Kris did not want to have another meal with his grandparents. In the end, he just sighed and focused on the positives in his life, like Lena.


    With everyone gone, Kris grabbed Lena''s cheeks and squeezed them. "This is why you should be more obedient. If you had stayed home like the note I wrote... this could have been avoided."


    Lena swapped his hands away from her. "My dad would have come to my apartment then..."


    "So... maybe we could get married quicker that way."


    "You want to get married?" Lena asked in her broken tiny voice.


    Married. Everyone had been mentioning marriage lately. His mother, his grandparents... Collin is getting married. The word has just been in his head so much. Does he want to marry Lena... because he wants to... or because other people want him to?


    "Not yet." Kris honestly answered. He had yet to learn what a real marriage is... and what Lena wants out of a marriage.


    Kris does not want a marriage like his grandparents or parents... those were basically the marriages that he grew up with. He knew that the world was not limited to those type of situations... but you can''t stop wondering.


    Lena just looked at him and smiled.


    "We still have yet to do your unmarried sex," Kris added.


    Lena grinned wider and pouched on the man. Lena stopped and stared at him again, but this time with more of a worried face. Kris knew exactly what she wanted to ask.


    "Don''t worry... I''ll find out why my grandfather''s information was incorrect about your doctor''s visit. After all, I stole Gary from you."


    "Tsk..."


    "I do have to go back to work though. I had to miss a meeting just to get here."


    Kris pulled Lena in close and kissed her forehead. After releasing Lena, she signaled him to wait. She went to her fridge and got out the lunch that she had prepared for him this morning.


    "Thanks." Kris spoke. "I might not be home until late tonight. Don''t wait up for me and eat dinner yourself."


    Lena gave him an okay signal.


    Kris felt like he was neglecting husband attention to a wife. But he knew... that Lena knew that something was going on. And he felt even more loved and trusted, knowing that his significant other don''t need to know everything. That she is understanding and patient with him.


    Kris grabbed his lunch and head out.


    Lena sighed... it was going to be another rough evening without her man to warm her bed. If she was not controlling herself, she would already be out to find and kill whoever was giving her man troubles.


    But she knew that the situation was sensitive. She will have to trust and be patient with Kris.

 Chapter 242 - Lady Wu

    As Elder Li left, he immediately called his wife.


    "How did your visit go?" Old Madam Li asked.


    "There are good news and bad news. Good news is that we can go to dinner with Kris at the Shen Family house this weekend. Bad news, she''s not pregnant."


    "What? But the doctor''s visit said that she was?"


    "I don''t know. I''ll look into it more. How is it on your end?"


    "I just got to the temple. I will go and talk to the old shrine lady."


    Old Madam Li hung up the call as she got out of the car and entered the shrine. She had visited Lady Wu many times regarding the situation of the Li family.


    "Welcome. Lady Wu is already expecting you." A young female worker greeted her.


    "Good."


    The old lady rushed into the room. When she opened the door, she did not expect to see Li Bai (Madam Li) there too.


    Madam Li glanced at her mother-in-law but continued to drink her tea.


    "You have arrived. Sit." Lady Wu gestured toward an empty seat next to her and across from Madam Li.


    Lady Wu was an old woman in her late 80''s but she had been known as Lady Wu for the longest time. Her family had a long history of having a spiritual gift. In the old days, her ancestors were honored by the royal family. They give blessing to the kings, performed rituals, and predicted disasters and miracles.


    "Greetings, Lady Wu."


    "Please spare me the greetings. I know both of you are here for one purpose and that have to deal with the curse my family put on the Li family."


    It was indeed true. Decades ago, the Li family was cursed by the Wu family. One of the Li sons promised to married a Wu woman after going to war. She waited for him, never getting married. She later found out he already came back from the war and married a noble lady instead. She was already old and spent her years waiting for him.


    She later died from loneliness and her sister, who was a royal priestess at the time placed the curse on the Li family. The heir of the Li family may only bear one son who carries the curse. And he must only be married and faithful to one woman. If the heir dies, his death will be painful and end the entire Li bloodline.


    In all honesty, it was not such a bad curse. It''s not like the curse was saying the family will have bad fortunes.


    There were other small parts of the curse, but those were lost during the decades of history. Because the Li bloodline had carried wealth, prosperity, and greed, the family had continued to grow in power to make sure their Li legacy continued to thrive.


    When Li Jun (Kris'' father) was born, Lady Wu said that the son was different. He was the first in a long time to carry the Li blood but had no greed. Because of that, he had the possibility to break the curse.


    If he married someone from the Wang family that carried royal blood, the curse may be broken. Li Jun was a good and loving husband when he married Madam Li. But he did not have the mindset of scheming and intelligence like his ancestors.


    Although Li Jun was forever faithful to his wife, because his father (Elder Li) had pushed negative influence to his relationship, the curse was never broken. So in the end, it was the greed of Elder Li that set the curse again.


    "I already told you last time when the little Li boy was born, that he was born with greed. He will not be able to break the curse." Lady Wu sipped her tea. "I doubt he can even bear you the next heir."


    "What do you mean?" Both the Madam Li''s asked.


    "I could care less about this old stupid curse my family put on you. Feel like they are just giving me more work to do." Lady Wu sighed. "The boy''s fate is too dark, he''ll never be able to be pulled out of the abyss. It''s too late. This is the end of the Li family line. Now go and never come see me again. There is nothing I can do to help your family. You brought this upon yourself."


    "Wait!" Old Madam Li shouted. "Kris... he has a woman now."


    Lady Wu finally looked up from her teacup. She stared at Old Madam Li and then to Madam Li who nodded too. Lady Wu was never very fond of the old lady.. but the young lady from the Wang family had always been a good woman.


    "A woman?"


    "Yes, yes. And... she cured him also." The old lady added.


    "That''s right. He can touch woman now with no side effects. He had also become more... normal and happy." Madam Li clarified.


    This was the first time that Lady Wu saw both of them not arguing over things.


    "So the young boy has a woman now... so what? He still carried the curse and his soul is still stuck in a dark place." Lady Wu continued to drink her tea.


    "But.. the lady said she was blessed!" Old Madam Li spoke. "Here, I brought information on her birthday. Maybe you can see if she is really blessed."


    Lady Wu grabbed the papers from Old Madam Li and looked at it. She burst into a small laugh.


    "Blessed? This woman''s fate is as dark as your son. A black and dark soul. I don''t know how both dark souls can survive together. More like they would be killing each other''s life faster."


    Both of the Madam''s heart stopped. Did Lena just spout nonsense then?


    But just then, Lady Wu dropped her teacup. Her eyes widen and her heart started racing. She can sense a strong spiritual presence... as if the gods were speaking to her.


    "By any chance, you have brought something that belongs to the lady?" She asked.


    Old Madam Li shook her head.


    Madam Li shook her head too but then, she thought of something. "I don''t have a personal item of hers... but something she had recently touched? Would that work?"


    "Give it here."


    Madam Li opened her bag and brought out an item. She handed it to Lady Wu.


    Lady Wu closed her eyes as she tried to feel the lasting presence of the woman. She turned her head a feel times, trying to make out the energy.


    "Hmm..."


    "What is it?" Madam Li asked curiously.


    "Old Lady... are you sure you gave me the correct birthday?" Lady Wu asked.


    "Of course! I even confirmed it with several sources. This old lady even checked her social media accounts to confirm."


    Lady Wu was confused. For sure her first sight of the birthday, her gift told her such information was the birth of a dark heavy soul.... but why is all the energy that she is getting from this item all pure energy?


    She knew that something was unique about the situation.


    "Bring me the lady. I would need to see and talk to her personally to give you a definite answer." Lady Wu spoke.


    "So... she is blessed or not?"


    "I can''t tell at the moment. I would need her here."


    The Madam''s looked at each other.


    "Li Bai, you bring her here. She would surely follow you better than me." Old Madam Li spoke.


    Madam Li sighed. She did not like following directions from the old lady but what she said was correct. Lena already know how Kris dislike his grandparents, she would not interact with the couple at all.


    "Very well then, Lady Wu. I will bring her to see you another day." Madam Li thanked Lady Wu and exited.


    Old Madam Li did the same too and left.


    Lady Wu wrote down the woman''s birthday and Kris'' birthday next to each other. She also put in the time they were born and looked at any auspicious event when they were born.


    She was sure that both of them were dark ill-fated souls.... but she had never felt such strong spiritual energy telling her otherwise. Lady Wu had once thought that her gift was fading away from her old age... but it seems like the gift was just waiting for something worthy to be used on.


    =======


    Author''s Disclaimer:


    =======


    So I am not chinese.... so i don''t 100% know if royal priestess or shaman or spiritual people exist or their roles in history. Of course as you have seen in my writing, the timeset is kind of like now but more technological advance. There are contents where I use real history and content where I just fake history. Just be open minded that this is a fictional book.


    But feel free to correct me on some stuff so I can edit it or make it less irky :D

 Chapter 243 - I am an only son

    That night, Lena did not wait up for Kris as he said. She went ahead and slept on her comfy bed instead. However, in the middle of the night, she could still unconsciously feel when Kris got back and crawl into bed with her.


    She would move closer to hear and fall back to sleep. The next morning, when she woke up, Kris was gone already. Lena glanced at her phone and noticed that there had not been a single call from her mother but definitely lots of text from Hazle.


    Lena stretched and got off the bed. After she was done getting ready, she sat down on her chair and finally called Hazel.


    "GIRL!" Hazel answered the phone. "HOW DARE YOU!"


    "You''re lively this morning."


    "Oh yeah, I have a photoshoot this morning. BUT THAT''S NOT THE POINT!"


    "Chill woman.... I am not across the ocean that you needed to shout." Lena replied.


    "So... how much is this man paying you to be his woman? Is this why you have gotten so fast over Andy?"


    "Woah Woah there, no one is paying me. More like I am stealing money from him. And no, I don''t need a new relationship to get over Andy... I am long over him before I even got it in with Kris. Don''t be pulling up nonsense."


    Lena could hear Hazel sniffing over the phone.


    "My Lena has grown up and got herself into a relationship before me."


    "Please Hazel, if you get serious with someone then you wouldn''t be changing men so fast."


    "Easy for you to say. It''s complicated okay?" Hazel replied.


    "You''re a pretty and successful woman. You just need to get serious with a relationship instead of just hitting the hot men. We''re not getting any younger Hazle."


    "Gosh... you sound like our mom''s now." Hazel shivered. Is this what adult Lena sound like?! "SOOO.... when am I going to get to see the almighty and powerful cold CEO?"


    "He''s a busy man. Do you think he can just make time for you just because you are my friend? You would need an appointment, lady. And don''t you dare sneak behind my back to go see him. I will kill you. Plus, how can you just see him when I barely get to see----" him lately. That was what Lena was going to say.


    Lena opened her bedroom door to go out and she spotted Kris casually sitting on the sofa. He glanced up to her and smiled.


    "I have to go." Lena finished her sentence.


    "Wait.. you didn''t---"


    Lena hung up the phone and walked over to sit with Kris.


    "Morning." Kris cuddled in Lena.


    "You didn''t make a sound... I thought you left already."


    "I didn''t want to wake you up. And I wanted to see if your voice had gotten better... but it seems like it is perfect since you are already complaining about your horrible boyfriend so early in the morning." Kris kissed Lena''s cheek.


    "Yes... and if you see him, please do tell him that he needs to give me more attention or I might go insane and throw a Lena tantrum."


    "Oh? I really want to see a Lena tantrum."


    Lena pouted and Kris grabbed her chin and gave her another kiss, but this time directly to her lips.


    "I wanted us to have breakfast together today." Kris stood up.


    Lena following him to the dining room and opened her mouth in amazement. Kris chuckled and pulled the chair out for her.


    "Close your mouth. I didn''t cook this... I had it delivered."


    "Oh... sad. You could have told me you made it and I would have believed you."


    They both had a large and fulfilling breakfast before Kris went to work first.


    When they ate together, Lena had not brought up any question regarding the events lately. Instead of going straight to his office today, Kris went down to the basement HQ.


    As he stepped out of the elevator, the workers quickly greeted him. After he went into his office and closed his door, all the workers looked at each other.


    They were giving each other the face of ''Even though our boss has a woman now... he is still as scary as ever.''


    Kris got into this office room down here and went to sit on his chair. "Report."


    "Wow... is this how you guy had work thing whole time? No, good morning or how was your day so far, or Hello." Gary rolled his chair to Kris'' desk as Collin just walked over.


    Kris did not reply and just look at the computer geek. Gary sighed... he liked it when he was working for Lena better.


    "I looked into the medical report as you asked. And you are right, someone did alter the information on it. And again, it''s that guy you told me... what was his name again?"


    "Ace." Collin replied.


    "Yes... now you see, I only put in a program to detect if someone is searching for information, not changing information. But I did finish coding in a program for that now. However..." Gary looked at Kris. "I know I don''t know this Ace man... but to me... seems like he isn''t doing anything bad. He is quite cunning and skillful."


    "Like you..." Kris spoke.


    "Yes! And I am a good guy."


    "Ace... he is a wild card."


    "I don''t know why he altered Lena''s doctor visit information... but he fed that information to your grandfather plus a lot of other fake sh*t. Like I said... I don''t know the man... but from an outsider''s view.. he looks like he is really on your side." Gary pointed out. "And.. he was the one who blocked the other third-person after I blocked the Long Law Firm."


    "Who is that third person that was looking into Lena?" Kris asked.


    "Tyler Huang."


    Kris rolled his eyes... Tyler Huang.. again. He needed to do something about this man after he dealt with Ace.


    "I am just saying... " Gary continued. "With my dad now underground again... he is probably planning something. He still has not found me again after I visited him... but Lena is still a wide-open target. I think it''s not so bad to have an extra hand looking after her."


    "Are you implying I am not capable of keeping Lena safe?" Kris raised his voice.


    "No. Maybe.... Look, all I am trying to say is that you are not a one-man army. Even I thought that I can protect Lena... and look at me now, I am letting you do 80% of the job." Gary admitted.


    "Don''t worry about your father. I already have eyes within his circle."


    "Already?!"


    Gary was shocked. He knew Kris was good but the man looked like he doesn''t sleep at all. Gary was the best when it comes to the internet and its world... but his father knew that well and when he goes into hiding, he goes dark so Gary too would not be able to find him.


    "I don''t know what Ace is up to..." Kris looked at hand... but noticed that he had forgotten to wear the promise ring. He needed to make that a habit. "How''s Keso?"


    "He''s fine. I have checked up on a few things. Lay had taken care of the miscellaneous stuff also."


    "Good."


    There was a knock on the door and a man opened it. "CEO Li, your office called and said there was a man who is waiting for you."


    "He didn''t have anyone scheduled for this morning."


    "Yes, I told them that, Secretary Collin. But they reported from upstairs saying that the man insisted he is your brother...."


    Collin looked at Kris and then back at the man at the door.


    "I''ll be there soon." Kris replied and the man closed the door. Kris opened his drawer, took out his a small gun and hid it in his body.


    "You have a brother?" Gary asked.


    "No." Kris stood up and walked toward the door. "I am an only son."


    Gary and Collin followed him out.


    "Gary, you''re staying here. You still need to deal with your real brother." Kris stopped and looked at Gary who rolled his eyes.


    Gary had wanted to see who this brother of Kris was...


    When Kris arrived up at the top floor, he told Collin to stay out and don''t let anyone enter. Kris opened the door and he immediately saw Ace standing by the bookcase and looking at Kris'' stuff.


    Kris closed the door and locked it.


    "What are you doing here?" Kris spoke.


    "To apologize."

 Chapter 244 - No comment

    Kris walked over and sat on his desk chair. Ace also sat down on the chair across from Kris.


    "I expected to see a picture of Lena here, but I guess you have not changed anything in here yet." Ace said.


    "What are you really here for?"


    "To apologize. Regarding the information that I gave to your grandfather." Ace explained.


    "And what did you expect to gain from that?"


    "To get you married, of course!" Ace smiled. "Your woman has so many men chasing her, you need to up your game before she is whooed away."


    "You think a simple man can easily whoo her away?" Kris snickered.


    "I was just trying to help you... but it didn''t work out so I came here to apologize."


    "I don''t need you interfering with my life, Ace. I gave you a clear warning last time. Stay away from me and Lena."


    "Fine. Then, I will give you a clear warning too. I am not sure Lena is someone who can stand up next to you. I will support her regardless because she is a special woman to you... but others may not be as kind as me."


    Ace walked out the door and left.


    ''Others...'' Kris does not need anyone to approve Lena... only he needed to approve her.


    ======


    The next morning, Lena had breakfast with Kris again. Last night he did not come home late but rather even brought her flowers. Lena was questioning at how good her man was at hiding his feelings from her...


    Lena had taken off work today because she had personal things to do. She also gave James the day off. However, she still had to make a quick stop at her office to grab a few items.


    Lena went into her office, grab the folder she needed and walked out. As she was leaving, she could feel an intense curiosity of eyes staring at her. Lena stopped and looked at Diane.


    "What is it?" Lena spoke.


    "Ah.. nothing Miss. Shen."


    "Really?" Lena asked again. "I feel like you have been waiting to say something to me lately."


    Diane cleared her throat and moved closer to Lena. "Is it true.... that you are dating CEO Li?"


    "That was it? OF course."


    "Aiya! See I told you our boss was really dating him and the rumors were not just rumors." Diane screamed at the other ladies in the office.


    "Ah... then boss! Chairman Li was here the other day.. did he disapprove you of seeing his grandson just like the dramas?!" A female worker screeched.


    "Obviously you have been watching too many dramas. He wanted me to marry his son.. not break up with him."


    "OMO!" The female worker used a Korean expression. "Then boss.. would we be invited to your wedding soon?"


    "No comment." Lena shrugged and walked out to the elevator.


    After she left, the girls all squealed.


    "Did you see that? She said no comment... so she is really going to get married?!"


    "I saw her wear a ring the other day!!"


    "Me too! But she was not wearing one today? You think she is keeping it quiet too like her dating life?"


    "I wouldn''t care! Our boss is dating THE KRIS LI... of course, I would be hiding him away from everyone too if I was dating him... aiya... she always ends up with good looking men."


    "I know, right? She was with CEO Yang and now hit another jackpot with CEO Li. I must pity CEO Yang... his fiance ran away from him... and now his ex is having a better life than him."


    "I know right... but hey.. he is single again... maybe he''ll be at the boss'' wedding and we can get to see him too... ehheheh..."


    The girls gossiped non-stop until Diane finally scolded them to go back to work.


    Lena got out and drove to an outside market to pick some fresh fruits before going to visit Madam Li. She did ask if Kris had told his mother about dinner at her parent''s house this weekend but Kris just kept making out with her all night long... seriously.. that man had been so bi-polar lately.


    Lena did not mind it though... she guessed that she was a good stress reliever for him.


    She married at the Li mansion and parked her car. She was immediately greeted by the head housekeeper.


    "Good morning, Miss. Shen."


    "Hi... Is Madam Li home? Sorry I did not call ahead."


    "Yes, she is..." The woman led Lena to the living room. "Please sit. I will go tell the Madam that you are here."


    Lena placed the fruits on the table and sat down, patiently waiting for Madam Li to arrive. After a few minutes, she appeared.


    "Lena... I was just about to come to visit you today."


    "Is that so?" Lena smiled and gave Madam Li a hug.


    "I heard father came and gave you a visit at work the other day..." Madam Li sat down.


    "He did. Nothing that I can handle."


    Madam Li nodded approvingly.


    "I picked up some fresh fruits at the market today for you." Lena spoke.


    "They are lovely. You know how to pick your fruits..." Madam Li signaled the worker to take the fruits and put them away.


    "I actually came here today to see if Kris told you yet... about the dinner at my parent''s house this weekend."


    "Depends on how you define told... I got the new... but from a stupid text message." Madam Li looked displeased. "Who knew that having another woman in his life means his mother is insignificant. Seems like he had forgotten who had been with him all his previous years."


    Lena chuckled. "He has just been busy lately."


    "Of course... he better be." Madam Li was hinting at him being busy giving her grandchildren. "By the way Lena, are you free today?"


    "I have taken the day off to rest and recover."


    Madam Li grinned. Of course, Lena should take more days off to rest and recover. If her son had been busy as he should, then surely Lena need all the days off she can get.


    "I was hoping you can come with me to visit an old friend."


    "Certainly, I can." Lena replied.


    Since Madam Li was going out, she needed to have her driver with her. So Lena sat in the car with Madam Li and her driver drove. Lena had noticed that although Madam Li had her unusual health complications, she was a very strong and athletic woman regardless.


    You would not expect her to have any health conditions if you look at her.


    When they arrived, Lena did not expect them to be at a small shrine. The area was beautifully decorated and the garden was well tamed.


    Lena silently followed Madam Li as they arrived at a small house. Madam Li took off her shoes and went in, and Lena did the same.


    "Lady Wu." Madam Li greeted the old woman.


    Again, Lena silently followed Madam Li''s lead.


    "Madam Li... I see that you have brought her with you."


    ''Me?'' Lena sat down but she felt like this was not the simple "meeting an old friend" scene.


    Lena looked at Lady Wu who was obviously looking Lena from top to down. She was also nodding her head.


    ''Is she.. a matchmaker?'' Lena was a bit uncomfortable with all the staring but she kept her goody two shoes face on.


    "Young lady... come here. I want to have a closer look at you."


    Lena was reluctant but she moved closer to the old lady. Lady Wu help Lena''s chin and turned her head side to side as she looked at Lena.


    Lady Wu was sure her gift was correct about Lena having such a dark soul... but the woman in front of her had nothing but a strong aura of blessings. Finally touching her, Lady Wu can feel why her senses were all mixed up.


    "When is your birthday." Lady Wu asked.


    "Oh.. um.. August 15th XXXX."


    "Hm....Not that one... I am asking for YOUR birthday."


    "Mine... but my birthday is really August 15th."


    Lena looked at Lady Wu and could feel what the woman was suggesting.... she must be asking for Shen Qian''s birthday... not Lena... that means that she knows.


    Lena looked at Madam Li and did not reply back.


    Lady Wu also looked at Madam Li. "Madam.... if you don''t mind, I would love to observe the lady alone... without interference of another energy."


    "Ah... very well, Lady Wu." Madam Li excused herself and left them both alone in the room.


    "She had left." Lady Wu looked at Lena. "Now... tell me. When is your birthday."


    "May 4th XXXX."


    "What time were you born?"


    Lady Wu continued to ask Lena questioned and she answered them all to the best of her recollection. In the end... Lady Wu burst into a loud chuckled and Lena was even more concerned about her life....


    This was not the first time she saw a crazy lady... why are all spritual old woman so creepy looking.


    "Now tell me... little one. Who told you that you were blessed?"


    "I don''t know. It was an old lady at a shrine for the deity of Sheming."


    "Shemin...? AHAHAHAHAHA.." Lady Wu laughed. "I thought that the old lady was already dead."

 Chapter 245 - Blessed with second chances

    Lena was shocked and Lady Wu saw her expression.


    "Don''t worry... she''s not really dead.. just a bit crazy."


    Lena cleared her throat... ''Yeah... you too...''


    "You are really blessed." Lady Wu stopped laughing and held Lena''s hand. "Blessed with second chances..."


    "What does that mean?"


    "You have blessed already the moment your soul reached the mortal world. But the world of the humans did not accept you so your soul had died early on."


    "I died before my mother gave birth to me..." Lena said... remembering the puzzle pieces she put together when she had the conversation with her mom.


    She had assumed that Shen Qian was already the dead stillbirth baby of Lena... and someone how reborn into a world and came back here. She already realized that she was in the body of her sister.


    "When you said that the world of humans did not accept me... are you saying I did not die naturally?" Lena asked but Lady Wu just continued with on without answering Lena.


    There were some things that Lady Wu can tell Lena... but some things... she was not able to... for she should not interfere with fate too much.. or she, herself, would be punished.


    "You gave yourself a second chance to be reborn... and thus you went to a different world. But you also made sure your mother got a second chance too... to have another child."


    Lena paused and listened to Lady Wu.


    "Being blessed with second chances means is a wondrous thing. You... you are a miracle... For those who had lost their path... you offer them second chances to find new ones. For those who did not have a happy life, you will give them second chances for a better one. For those you had met and will meet. You can''t pick and choose... but your presence is already a miracle."


    Lady Wu continued. "Your soul... it is always meant to die peacefully. You died in your mother''s womb... and then you died in your sleep."


    Her sleep... that''s right. Shen Qian was sleeping right before she woke up in this world... so she did die sleeping... at least it was not a painful death.


    "Your soul must have traveled back home.... and before it could leave the mortal world... it gave your sister another chance... at love."


    "What do you mean by that..?"


    "I don''t know... I am only trying to interpret the energy from you to tell you a story."


    "I see...."


    "The fate of this body... she had a horrible fate. To kill a man who had loved her for years... and to die with him, realizing her life had been meaningless. That the man she should have loved all along... was the person she killed."


    "Kill a man that had loved her for years..." Lena paused as a memory past her mind. "Gary?" She whispered.


    Lena remembered the night she was shot and Gary did too... but Gary did not die... nor did she... was it because she was already changing Lena''s fate in this world? Although she did not indirectly kill Gary... it was because of her that Gary was in trouble in the first place.


    The original Lena''s fate was to die alongside Gary... with regret of being blinded by one lover and losing the grasp of her real lover.


    Lena quickly went to her bag and pulled out the bracelet that Gary made for her.


    "Lady Wu... can you read the energy from this?"


    "I don''t know... my gift comes and go. I can try though."


    Lady Wu took the bracelet from Lena and closed her eyes.


    "I can sense two similar energy here.... similar but different too. One.. a weak soul... and another.. a very strong one."


    Weak... and strong.. That was exactly how Gary was and now. "So basically two different people?" Lena asked.


    "I cannot be certain."


    "Thank you, Lady Wu." Lena retrieved back her bracelet. "I am very thankful for meeting you today... but I have to go."


    "Miss..." Lady Wu called her back.


    Lena turned around and look at her.


    "You are the bringer of second chances.... and you have given the boy a second chance and the Li family. However..." Lady Wu''s voice got darker and serious. "The boy is in a very dark place.... one wrong step and he can pull you deep into the darkness of the abyss with him. Everyone around his have very dark souls.... if you are not careful, you will be consumed entirely."


    Lena eyes turned confident and she smiled. "Thank you... but... I will never let that happen."


    Lena turned around and left. She understood now and she just needed to confirm one more thing.


    Lena spotted Madam Li sitting on a bench as she peacefully looked at the garden.


    "Madam Li." Lena called out to her.


    "Hmm... are you done?"


    "Yes. I have to leave first... I will take a taxi home." Lena spoke quickly.


    "Leave first? Are you sure?"


    "Yes. You can go back to speak with Lady Wu."


    Lena said her goodbyes and quickly left. She hailed a taxi and told the man to go to Gary''s apartment.


    Madam Li looked at Lena''s departing figure and sighed. Did the old lady scare her? She walked back into the room.


    "So.. Lady Wu... how did it go?"


    Lady Wu drank her tea and smiled. "She is surely blessed. A very strong one too."


    "Aiya.." Madam Li let out a breath of relief. "That''s good."


    "Hmmm..." Lady Wu hummed.


    She looked out the window and sipped on her tea. "A storm is coming.... not tonight maybe... but it''ll be here by tomorrow. A nasty storm."

 Chapter 246 - Who are you?

    Lena arrived at Gary''s apartment and she quickly ran up to his floor.


    At the same time, Kris pulled up his car to park, and he spotted Lena getting out of the taxi and running inside.


    ''Weird... I thought she said she was with my mom... What is she doing here?'' Kris turned off the car engine and slowly walked to Gary''s apartment too. He sent a text to Lena but she did not reply back.


    Kris had to wait a bit before he caught the next available elevator. When he arrived at Gary''s apartment, he was about to knock but stopped.


    "Do you still like me?" Kris could hear Lena ask Gary.


    "Of course. You''re my best friend, there is no way I would hate you." Gary replied. He glanced at the clock and noticed that it was about time that Kris should be coming to his house too.


    ''Why did Lena come today?''


    "Not that... I meant like... like you use to."


    "No. I told you that already last time too. I have romantic feelings toward you. Why?"


    "Ugh..." Lena was frustrated. How should she even start the conversation? She can''t just say "You''re from a different world aren''t you..."


    "What''s wrong with you, Lena? Don''t tell me you like me now? I am not getting mix up between you and your current boyfriend right now, he''s the devil in disguise."


    "No! I don''t like you. I just... it''s complicated." Lena replied.


    "Well... Since you''re here, I can give you the signatures you needed from me to my fans."


    Lena had asked Gary to sign a few things for the young college boys who wanted the master hacker''s signature. Although, Gary had died... his mysterious identity online still exist.


    "Here you go. I made it extra pretty and put it on expensive paper." Gary handed them to Lena.


    Lena took the signatures and looked at it. She paused... and tilt her head a bit to look at the signature at a different angle.


    Gary had always signed his name in cursive... but now.. he was not. And his the dots for his "I" is a checkmark instead of the usual dot.


    Lena had seen this signature before. Lena stared at Gary who had his back to her, as he searched for something in his drawer.


    His signature... and that stupid gun-pointing motion...


    "Erik?"


    "Hmmm?" Gary replied instinctively. After half a second, he realized what he just did. Gary turned around and looked at Lena. "What did you call me?"


    Lena used her left hand and covered her mouth. "Oh my....gosh!"


    Gary pointed his finger at Lena. "You... who are you?"


    "AH!" Lena was ecstatic. Gary was someone she knew... "Erik!!"


    Lena put down the papers of signatures and rushed to give Gary a hug. On the other hand, Gary was full of shock and confusion... How does she know?


    Gary tried to push Lena away from him but she gave him a tight hug. "Hey, hey... who the f*ck are you?" Gary put his hand on Lena''s head and pushed her back.


    Lena finally released him and smiled at Gary. "It''s me.. Shen Qian."


    "Huh?" Gary stepped back and tried to process what Lena said. "Shen Qian.... Little Qian Qian?"


    "Yes!"


    "From the design team?"


    "Yes!" Lena nodded her head.


    Gary walked closer to Lena and then poked her forehead.


    "Ouch! What are you doing?!" Lena rubbed it.


    "Why are you here too?"


    "Me? Why are you here? I am here first."


    Gary paused and thought about it. He went through Gary''s memories. ''That''s right.... Lena did change her attitude... it was that time when her engagement was canceled.''


    "That''s weird... If you are here... then who is Shen Qian?" Gary asked.


    "Shen Qian? You mean I did not die?"


    "You died...? No, you are very much alive. When did you come here?"


    "Hm.... about a few months ago... It was the day after Senior Han asked me out."


    "Really?" Gary started laughing. "Make sense now, actually. You were completely different from that day on."


    "What do you mean?" Lena was curious. If she was Lena... does that mean Lena was her?


    "You didn''t come to work for three days... and then he came to your apartment and you beat him up really bad."


    "Oh my god...." Lena was devastated... What other things did the rich pampered Lena do to her?


    "Now that I think about it... I fired you too."


    "WHAT?!"


    Erik Chen... he was Shen Qian''s boss. Shen Qian worked for his company right out from graduation. Erik was a casual boss due to his chillax personality and young age. The Chen family, there, owned the major entertainment industry.


    Because Erik had two older brothers, he did not have the same expectations as them. He was able to pursue what he enjoyed and worked in the small company that he built himself.


    "Yeah... I fired you. You come to work every day, demanding that I don''t pay you enough and that my dress code for women was too strict." Gary explained. "And other stuff.... but yeah."


    Lena giggled. She should be pitying her real self right now... but if it was fate that led them both to their new lives... Shen Qian now... she must be happy.


    Lena smiled and she started getting emotional. She wiped a tear from her eye.


    "Why are you crying? I fired you... but my sister gave you a job... you like it there better anyway, okay?" Gary panicked, trying to console her. Him now and the original Gary never liked seeing women cry.


    "I''m... just happy." Lena looked at Gary. If Erik was here.... does that mean Gary took over Erik?


    Maybe... in the other world... Lena and Gary could have another chance to fall in love. The things that they missed in this world... they can have it there.


    "You know who missed you the most? Your Senior Han..." Gary laughed as he looked at Lena. "Now you are here, with your own happy man.. do you miss him?"


    "No. I had a crush on him, okay... love is different than having a crush."


    Lena looked back at Gary... reminiscing how good the original Gary had always been to Lena and her. She cried even harder this time... mixed with both sad and happy tears.


    "Stop crying, please!" Gary went to the desk and started pulling out tissues for Lena.


    "I''m sorry." Lena was just getting emotional... and the tears just keep coming.


    Gary patted Lena''s shoulder and handed her the tissues. At that moment, the bedroom door immediately opened.


    Kris pushed Gary away from his Lena and embrace Lena into his arms. "What did you do to her?"


    Gary put his hands up in surrender. He had forgotten that he was meeting with Kris. "I didn''t do anything, I swear."


    "Get out!" Kris spoke.


    Gary looked at him and immediately left. ''This is my house... why did I have to leave my own bedroom... gosh he is so scary! What did she find in him...''


    Gary looked back at the closed bedroom door... ''Shen Qian...'' He smiled. Gary thought that he was stuck and alone in this new place... but he felt much better, having someone he knows... and she is also his best friend here.

 Chapter 247 - Im all yours

    Kris hugged Lena tightly. He waited outside Gary''s apartment for a long time before he finally unlocked the door and entered.


    Lena was taking so long... and he was curious what other things the two were talking about. When he came back... all he heard was something about Senior Han and him being Lena''s crush.


    "Who''s Senior Han?" Kris asked.


    Lena wanted to answer him... but somehow the stupid crying was silencing her.


    "You have a crush on him? Did you miss him? Is he a star from your dramas? If you miss him, I can go find him for you. There isn''t anyone I cannot find for you."


    Kris doesn''t mind if Lena crushed on an actor... that''s what girls do right? As long as she stopped crying... he does not mind doing anything for her.


    Lena looked at Kris... he was such a sweet man. She had not even thought about her star crushes in this world or the other. When she found love with Kris... everything else, she knew what she had was just some small-time girl crush. Real love is what she has now...


    Lena shook her head and opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out.


    "Did you have an argument with Gary? Best friends argue... I usually punch them to forgive them. I can hold Gary down for you if you want?" Kris consoled her.


    Lena laughed with the last of her tears. "No." She mumbled out and gave Kris a tight hug.


    She sniffed. "I only need you. I am happy to be here. I am thankful to have met you and fall in love with you."


    Kris hugged Lena back and caressed her hair. "I love you too."


    Lena wiped her tears on Kris'' shirt and then looked up at his handsome face. Her hands were still around him.


    Kris sighed from relief that she stopped crying. He wiped the leftover tears from her face. "Will you tell me why you cried?"


    "I... I am just happy." Lena smiled. "For my family, friends, and you. To have such a handsome and godly man as my boyfriend and someone as amazing as Gary for a friend."


    "Then... what about your Senior Han?"


    "There is no Senior Han.. just an inside joke Gary like to throw at me about my boy crushes."


    "Crushes...?" Kris pushed Lena until her back was against the door. "I don''t know if I can tolerate too many crushes... how many are we talking about?"


    "Tsk..." Lena put her hands up to Kris'' face. "There is only one... and it''s you." She gave him a kiss on his lips.


    "I like that..." Kris bent his head lower and kissed Lena passionately on the lips.


    He gently picked her up and moved to place her on the bed. He was still deeply kissing Lena... not letting a single breath escape her.


    After a few minutes, he finally released her lips and trailed his kissed down her neck.


    "Kris..."


    "Hmm?" He replied as he continued placing several kisses on Lena.


    "We can''t..." Lena pushed his back a bit.


    Kris stopped and looked at her.


    "Gary... what if he''s still here?"


    Kris glared at Lena. "Didn''t I tell you before not to say another man''s name in bed?" He bent his legs over Lena and started removing his belt.


    "You.. what are you going to do?"


    Kris smirked at Lena. "You really don''t know?" He whipped his belt on the bed.


    "We can''t do it here! We have to do it on our bed!" Lena demanded.


    "Our bed?" Kris smiled and bent down to kiss Lena on her forehead. "I like it when you''re more honest about what you want."


    Kris got off the bed and put his belt back on. After he was done, he held his hand out to Lena.


    "C''mon... let''s go home."


    Lena grabbed his hand and they both left the apartment. Gary had already left the moment Kris told him to get out. Gary did not want to stay just in case the devil decided to come for him.


    Kris and Lena got into his car and Kris took no time to drove off.


    While he was driving, he glanced at Lena. "Weren''t you suppose to be with my mother?"


    "Something came up."


    "And you have to see Gary?" Kris asked.


    Lena gave him her full attention. "How much did you hear?"


    "Not much... just the beginning and the end."


    "..." Lena doesn''t know how much that is... "Gary.. he''s a very important person for me. Because we are together now... I just wanted to make sure he really has no more feeling for me. And he doesn''t... so it''s a good thing."


    Lena was not exactly lying to Kris but she was also not telling him the full conversation. She does not know if telling him about her complete situation was a sane thing to do. Lena will tell him someday... maybe when they get married.


    There are some things that one would have to keep to themselves sometimes too...


    "But you both talked for so long..."


    "Kris... do you believe in fate?"


    Kris stopped at the red light and looked at Lena. He took her hands and kissed it slightly. "Of course, that''s why I was able to meet you."


    "I... I think that fate brought us together. We just talked about who we really are. Remembering what made us who we are... where we will go.. and the good and bad things that happened. It''s just nice to remember that we are here for each other."


    The light was green and Kris focused on driving again. He sped up as he reached their apartment and parked in the underground parking lot.


    Kris got out of the car first and went to open the door for Lena. They both walked to the speed elevator and got in.


    As they got in, Kris hugged Lena from behind as she looked out the scenery. He pushed her hair to the side and kissed her nape.


    "I really want you..." He whispered to Lena in a low, sexy voice.


    Lena could feel something nudging her butt from behind.


    "You... don''t tell you drove like that?"


    "You said you wanted OUR bed... so I waited." Kris kissed her nape again.


    Lena turned around hin his arms and put her hands around his neck. She gave him a peck on his lips.


    "I''m all yours... and always will be."

 Chapter 248 - Be gentle (R-18)

    ============


    Warnings: Explicit R-18 chapter


    ============


    Kris pulled Lena''s slender body closer to him, capturing her alluring lips in one swoop. He kissed her lips, consuming her every breathe, once again.


    Lena slightly opened her mouth, allowing Kris to go further. He gently touched his tongue with hers, moving them delicately with each other.


    He brushes his own tongue with Lena''s as he also explored her mouth, making sure to give every single part of her mouth attention.


    He pushed Lena''s body more up against the clear window of the elevator as their tongues now dance in a tango, intertwining their tongues.


    They moved in a smooth gently pattern between french kissing and just kissing on the lips.


    The elevator dings as it stopped and opened its door on Lena''s apartment. Kris gently bit Lena''s lower lip and picked her up.


    "I don''t I can make it to the bedroom." Kris kissed her neck as he held her weight. He gently sat her on the sofa as he removed his belt and took off his tie.


    In a single motion, Kris removed his shirt, exposing his sturdy and strong abs. Although he has several scars on his body... to Lena... it just made him looked extra sexy.


    Kris swooped back in, to kissing Lena''s soft lips and taking in her sweet saliva. He made sure to strip her down, leaving only her bra and underwear on. After another kissing session, he gave her one final nub on her lips before standing up again.


    Lena was still sitting down. She unbuttoned Kris'' pants, zipping it and letting his hard rod stick out. She wrapped the hand on it, slowly caressing the tip of it before putting it into her mouth.


    She took in one go. Kris placed his hands on her head, as he closed his eyes and groan from the sensations that she was giving him.


    Lena slowly sucked him in... and out, making sure to use her hands too. Lena could feel the d*ck getting bigger and harder with each passing stroke. She thought that she had seen all of this little hard rock baby, but she guessed that this is only the beginning.


    Lena does a final deep throat motion and stopped. She removed his long and big rod out of her mouth as Kris opened his eyes again and smiled at her.


    He gave her kiss on head first... then her forehead... down her nose to her cheeks. He continued to peck the kissed lower as he bent his legs on the ground and positioned his face to be staring at Lena''s opening.


    Kris slowly removed Lena''s underwear, exposing her pink flesh before him. Lena spread her legs as Kris gently placed his fingers on her va*gina and spread it, showing more of her pink and wet flesh to him.


    He stuck one finger in and twirled it inside, trying to get a feel of Lena. Lena squirmed from the initial insert and moaned softly as his finger explored her.


    "You''re not wet enough..." Kris spoke as he put another finger inside Lena and she dropped another heavy voice in the room.


    "Ah...Mnnnnnnn..." Lena released her voice of soft pleasures as Kris continue to move in and out of her.


    She could feel her body releasing more juices each time he goes in and out... the noises of his fingers sliding in... and out... and in again.


    Kris removed his two fingers out and felt the excess juice on his fingers. He knew that breaking into Lena the first time was going to be a bit painful... and she needed to be ready for him. He wanted her to feel less pain as much as she can.


    He moves his body behind Lena, laying them down sideways on the sofa. He nudged the tip of his p*nis at her entrance, just slowly rubbing it against her open skin.


    He tilted her chin up towards him and gave her another french kissed as his finger massaged her cl*toris. Lena could feel his hot tongue inside her mouth, his hard d*ick playing at the outside of her entrance, and his fingers rubbing her sensitive spot.


    At the moment, her phone rang. However, both of them just ignored the ringtone and continued with their foreplay. The ringtone stopped and then started rining again. When it rang for the third time, Lena stopped kissing Kris.


    She turned her head and grabbed her phone that was on the floor, fallen out during their take-off session. Lena immediately turned off her phone and went back to giving her man the attention he needed.


    After a few more minutes of kiss, Kris could feel that Lena had gotten more wet down below. He kissed her and whispered to her.


    "Lena...I want you." He put his hand on his d*ck and poke Lena''s entrance.


    Lena looked at him and gave him a kiss on his lips before flipping her back straight down on the sofa. "Yes." She gave him a reply.


    Kris moved up, also changing his body position. Lena''s back was on the sofa and Kris positioned himself between her legs.


    She spread her legs wider for him as Kris held his hard waiting d*ck at her entrance. He steadily placed the tip of it outside the hole, nesting it in place for his thrust in.


    Lena looked at him and then lifted her head a bit to see his p*nis. She steadied her breathing and held to the sides of the sofa. She was preparing for deflowering.


    Lena lifted her butt up just a tiny bit from the sofa and closed her eyes. She was ready for him. She wanted him inside her as much as he did.


    "Do you have a condom?" Kris asked.


    Lena quickly opened her eyes and looked at him. ''Condoms...?''


    They both were so into the moment that condoms were not even in their mind. Kris only remembered it as he looked at Lena, who was openly awaiting him.


    He recalled that Lena said she wanted them to use condoms. After all, she did not want to be pregnant until after they were married. Kris did not mind. It was the woman who will have to go through the pain and giving birth... a man should always respect their woman''s opinion.


    "F*ck that." Lena replied to him.


    "Huh?"


    "We don''t need that. I want to feel you... with no barriers between us."


    Kris looked straight into her sweet eyes. She might have not known... but his mind is currently heating up like a volcano erupting. Her saying no to condoms was making his little brother even more excited. If he did not control himself so much, he would have jammed in her and f*cked her senseless.


    He removed his hand that was somewhat positioning his p*nis at her entrance and touched her cheeks. His other hand was placed on the side of the sofa.


    "Are you sure?" Kris wanted to ask her one more time. He did not want her to say no now just in the heat of the moment. "Once I go through with it... you know I may not be able to stop myself."


    "Yes!" Lena confirmed. She moved her hand and positioned his p*nis back at her hole... that was impatiently waiting for the excruciating pain and pleasure. "Just f*ck me already, dammit!"


    And there it was... the aggressive and honest tone of Lena that Kris liked so much.


    With the confirmation, Kris slowly pushed the tip of him inside her.


    Lena had her hands back on her sides and she squeezed the sofa to brace herself. Kris gently rubbed her cl*toris gently to soften more of Lena as he slowly pushed in more.


    Lena archer her head back, letting out a soft sound of relief and pain. She could feel his big meat stick, making his way inside of her, ripping her final defenses apart.


    Kris was only about one-thrid in when he lowered his body down to Lena. He grabbed her hands and interlaced their fingers. He gave her a kiss on her right hand before pushing his entire d*ck inside of her in a single thrust.


    "Ah!" Lena tightened her fingers on his.... and looked up at his face.


    Lena could feel him rip her apart. The pain was there... but it was not as painful as getting shot. She could feel his hard meat stick, breathing inside of her... as if they were suffocating from her choke.


    "Does it hurt?" Kris asked.


    Lena let out a soft chuckle. "Are you really asking me that...?"


    Kris smiled and kissed her on the lips. "You can tie me to the bed as many times as you need to feel equal, baby."


    Kris did not move yet until he knew that Lena was ready too. He could feel her tight walls, squeezing the life out of him as he just stayed, unmoving inside her.


    Lena out a small breath and then released her hands from Kris. She placed them on the side again to allow Kris to start moving inside of her.


    "Be gentle.. okay?" She spoke.


    Kris straightened his back and slowly pulled out... He pulled out just enough so it stays inside her and then slowly pushed it back in.


    Kris could feel Lena tightly wrapping around his hot meat stick, and it pulses from the constraint. Her sensitivity tickles his d*ck and he is immediately filled with pleasure.


    On the other hand, Lena could still feel the pain from the second thrust. Of course, Kris knew that... so he just gently moved in and out of her... making sure he was not too fast.

 Chapter 249 - No words needed (R-18)

    He pulled out of her again and slid back slowly in. He moaned from the pleasure but also frustration from his self-control. He knew he was getting the better end of the situation.... but the slowness was killing him.


    After a few more ins and out, Lena wrapped her legs on his waist.


    "Faster..." She said.


    Lena could still feel the pain.. but the pleasure was overtaking the pain. Her mind was more focused on the pleasures.


    Kris bent down low again, bringing his head towards Lena. He started to kiss her as he thrust inside Lena, picking up the pace just a bit.


    Lena wrapped one arm on his neck and the other hending the back of his head. She intertwined her fingers in his hair as he slid out of her and deeply insert his d*ck inside of her again.


    "Ah...." She slightly pulled his hair... arching her head back. Kris sends kisses down her neck.


    Every time he thrusts back inside her... her walls squeezed him tightly as if they don''t want him to escape. It stops him from pulling out but he does so anyway, going back out and pushing back right in.


    "More....ahhhh..." Lena moaned in pleasures.


    Kris stood back up and moved his hip in a bit faster inside of her. He knew that Lena was reaching her end before him. He looks down at her...


    Kris sees her body jerk up each time he goes in, her large breasts bouncing from their movements. He watched the large melons move up and down with his motion of going in... and out of her.


    He grabbed one of the breasts and gently put some pressure on it.


    "Kris... Mn....." Lena moaned. "That.... ahhhhh.... you''re f*cken killing me."


    He quickened his pace a bit and grabbed her other loose breast with his other hand. He gave them a small squeeze as Lena found her climax.


    She screamed in ecstasy... releasing her wrapped legs on his waist... pointing them straight out. Climaxing from sex was way way more intense than what they had done before.


    The electrifying signals could be felt throughout her entire body. Her body squirmed in pleasure as Kris remove himself from inside her... allowing her to take her break.


    When she came... she squeezed him so tight and rough that he would have come too... but he waited it out. As Lena catches her breath and rested from her intense end.... Kris played with her hard nipples instead.


    He took one into his mouth and sucked on it. He twirled his tongue on it. He switched to the other one and did the same thing.


    After feeling that Lena''s breathing was steady again, he looked at her to confirm that he can start again before pointing in his tip at her entrance. Kris thrust back right inside her p*ssy... it slid in easier because she just came.


    Lena was still somewhat sensitive but it was not over until both of them were satisfied. She spread her legs wider for him so he can enter her more deeply inside.


    He plunged his hungry rod inside her.. deeper with each thrust as she opened her legs wider for him. He was reaching places that he did not reach before... exploring more of her pleasure hole.


    "Ah.. f*ck.." Kris groaned. He could feel the build-up inside him as he moves inside her tight opening, pulling out and in.


    In the silence of the large open room, they can only hear the noises from themselves and the squishy sound of their juices mixing with each other.


    Each time he pulls out and plops back in, the juices squeezed out of Lena, making a sound. The slap of their flesh together, making a thump that slightly echoed in the room.


    Lena could feel him growing harder and bigger inside of her.


    "Kris...."


    "Lena..."


    Lena''s walls squeezed his d*ck tighter. Kris quickened his pace again, a fast in and out.


    "Lena..." Kris called out her name. He placed both hands on the side of her and f*cks her hard and quick for his end.


    Lena placed her hands on his shoulder and pumped her hip with his motion. "It''s fine... Ah...." She tried to speak in between the pleasures that he was sending to her. "I... Mnnn!!! I''m on the pills."


    With that said, Kris immediately kissed the entrance of her womb with his tip with each thrust. His swelled up meat throbs with each thrust inside of her, building up the final pressures to his release.


    He finally stops inside of her as his p*nis c*ms inside of her, filling her up as he pulsed and pumped everything inside of her.


    "Ahhhhh...." Lena let out a soft moan of pleasure... she could feel the lot liquid inside of her and his throbbing rod loading her up. His d*ck was still inside of her, hardening up again even though it just came.


    Kris pulled out from Lena as some of his c*m leaves with him. He looked down at the mess he made... but very proud of how much came out of him.


    He touched his d*ck that just came once and was already hard. He looked at Lena before saying, "Again?"


    Lena sat up from the sofa and touched her slit. With her sitting straight up now... gravity was pulling out the liquid that he just put inside of her.


    She sat up on the sofa this time. Lena spread her legs and invited him in for a second round. She knew she was going to feel the sore and pain from it tomorrow, but for now... she is going to enjoy this.


    Kris bent his knees on the floor and leveled up his p*nis with her entrance. With no warning, he thrust it right in. He could feel his meat stick pushing out his c*m from the last session, oozing it out to the sofa.


    He didn''t care... he can give her more. He placed his hands on Lena and kissed her and he pumps himself right into what they were doing before.


    In. Out. In... and out.


    The squishing sound of their liquids mixing with each other got louder. Combine with the sound of their kissing, they both lost themselves in a sense of unspeakable pleasure. Their hearts were completely with each other... no words needed to express their feelings.


    As they were enjoying their second round, their beautiful lovemaking was yet once interrupted. Lena''s doorbell run and Kris stopped kissing her.


    He also stopped moving down below.... but his d*ck still nested inside of her.


    "Lena!!! Are you home?" Hazel''s voice was heard through the door.


    "Shit..." Lena silently spoke.


    Kris looked at Lena''s panicked face and smiled. She was squeezing him tighter down below... was it because someone was here? And they could potentially get exposed.


    He smirked at her unconscious l*wd thoughts. He pulled out of her but then jammed it back right inside of her.


    "Ahh!" Lena let out a loud voice of pleasure. "Kris... what are---"


    He thrust back inside her and she covered her mouth as another moan escape.


    Kris pulled out again... and in. He bit her ear, sending a tingle down to her body and she squeezed him even tighter.


    "Just ignore her..." He spoke in a husky voice to her ears. "She''ll leave soon... that is... if you can stay quiet." And goes straight inside her again.


    "F*ck!" Lena gritted her teeth. She as feeling very good right now....


    She stopped covering her mouth and grabbed Kris shoulder as he continued to f*ck her. She bit his shoulder unexpectedly.


    The bell rang once again before it went silent, but Lena was not taking the chances to let her voice out yet. Kris remodeled her home... but he improved her security... not made it soundproof.


    Kris entered Lena once again, kissing her womb with the tip of his hard throbbing meat stick. He picked her up in one single motion as she wrapped her legs tightly around him, pressing her walls more closely around his meat.


    Kris walked them to her room, her legs around him and his hard throbbing d*ck still deeply embedded in her.


    He plopped her into the bed as his meat rod comes out and immediately, he pushes it back in.


    "C''mon... she probably left already. And if not... she cannot hear you from here so let me hear that sweet voice of yours."


    Kris goes in and out of her... Lena letting out her sweet cries of pleasures... just for him.


    "I hate you..." Lena voiced out.


    Kris laughed at her stubbornness. He grabbed her legs and spread them out even more as he quickly moves.


    "That''s okay... cuz I love you." He spoke his final words before hitting Lena hard again.


    Lena found her release first and then Kris followed a minute afterward, releasing his second round inside of her again.


    His body felt electrified and happy. He stayed inside her again, until he was done pumping every last drop out of him.


    He pulled out of her and laid back on the bed, pulling Lena''s body closer to him. Their sweaty and sticky body, being next to each other.


    The sun was not even down yet... so they still had plenty of daylight and throughout the night to kill... right?


    "Again?" Kris asked.


    Lena glanced over at the man who looked like he was not at least 1% tired from all of that exercise. Lena worked out and had stayed in good shape lately... but this man was a beast! He''s on a totally different playing level that her!


    "The movie premiere is tomorrow... I can''t miss it." Lena replied.


    "I see..." Kris mumbled.


    "You''re going to be there too, are you not?"


    "Yes. I''ll see you there." Kris kissed Lena on the forehead and pushed her hair behind her ear. "We should go again though..."


    "...."


    It was not that Lena did not want to... it was because she also needed to make sure she was in good shape the next day. Hazel will definitely make fun of her... if that woman finds out what Lena had been up to.


    "I was considering you being on top." Kris played with her long hair.


    Lena glared at him.... this man was tempting her... and it was working. "Just one more."


    "Mhm..." He smiled back at her... knowing that he got what he wanted. It''s fine to play dirty once in a while... right?


    Lena kissed him on the cheek and then sat up, positioning herself above him. She rubbed his p*nis a bit to make sure it was hard and ready for another round. She looked down at his rod standing up and she aimed her hole on top of it.


    "You know what you are doing?" Kris asked.


    Lena stopped midair and gave him the eye. "Oh... trust me... you can ask me that question after your screaming my name in pleasure." And she plopped him in, right inside of her.

 Chapter 250 - "I only see Doctor Linda."

    =================


    When Lena was done, her limped body fell on top of him, breathless from the intense activity she was doing. She removed him from her and snuggled in his arms.


    The sun was just settings, but for Lena... it''s time for her to shut down. At that moment, the only noise from the room was the heavy breathing from both of them, trying to relax.


    Kris stretched his big arms on Lena and pulled her closer to him, taking in a final breath of her enormous sweet alluring scent.


    He kissed her head gently and let her breathing calm down as she regained her body muscles again.


    They stayed in bed for a while before Kris sat up. "We need to get clean up." He patted Lena on the shoulder to wake her up, not allowing her to sleep just yet.


    Their bodies were sweaty and sticky, and he wanted them to be able to sleep comfortably and be well-rested.


    Lena opened her eyes and looked at the handsome man, whose eyes was as dark as the night that was arriving.


    "I''ll go set up the bath first." Kris got up and turned on the lights in the room. He entered the bathroom and turned on the water for the bathtub, making sure it was a good warm temperature for Lena.


    He came back to the room and Lena had her eyes closed again, dozing off away. He chuckled at her before going to the bed and picking her up in his arms.


    "Ahh!" Lena screeched.


    He carried her to the shower first, giving both of them a quick rinse and body wash. Afterward, he carried Lena to the warm bathtub water that awaited them.


    He sat Lena down first before going into the pool of water himself.


    "We''ll sit in there for a few minutes first... so you won''t get too sore tomorrow," Kris spoke.


    He wrapped his arms around Lena as she sat in front of him. He kissed her nap and snuggle in his head to her neck. "Thank...."


    "Hm?" Lena replied.


    "For putting up with me... I hope I didn''t hurt you too much." Kris placed a hand on her stomach and gently rubbed the lower part of it. "I had fun..."


    "Mhm..." Lena held the hand that was gently rubbing her stomach and joined him in the soft massage. "Hey, Kris?"


    "Yeah?" He kissed her neck.


    "If I was a bit shorter, with skinny legs, less boobie, and an hour-glass figure, would you still love me?"


    Lena wondered if Kris would still have loved her if she was in her own body... not this scrumptious body of a goddess.


    Kris lifted his head from kissing her neck and thought about what Lena was asking him. "Hmmm?"


    He stopped massaging her stomach and placed that hand on her head. ''Shorter... Wouldn''t she be cuter?''


    He then grabbed one of her breasts and gently squeezed it.... ''Did I like this...?'' Sure... it was a positive, but not why he fell in love with Lena.


    He smiled to himself as he wrapped both of his hands on Lena''s waist and pulled him closer up to him.


    "I am Lena-sexual... no matter if you have no arms, a brain, boobs, or a vag*na... I would still love you. It''s not what you look like that attracted me to you... it''s that nosey and loving personality of yours. Stubborn, hot, and obviously special."


    He kissed her cheek and hugged her tightly as if he was not letting go. "So I hope... one day.. we can completely be with each other and love each other... bare and empty."


    Kris was referring to him not using condoms and Lena not being on the pills. For them to just naturally love each other.


    "Mhm..." Lena nodded her head and rested on Kris'' chest. She closed her eyes as he continued to rub her lower stomach again.


    Kris got out of the tub first, going back to the room and changing the sheets. After a few minutes, Lena walked out. She could feel only a slight sore from the bottom.


    Kris walked to Lena as she exited the bathroom. He picked her up and placed her on the bed. He closed the curtains before wrapping the thin blanket over their naked bodies.


    Lena closed her eyes... as she can finally fall asleep now. She felt safe and protected with Kris here. She was happy. This was where she is meant to be.


    ================


    It was 5 a.m when Lena opened her eyes again. They had slept for almost 12 hours. Kris''s arm was tightly wrapped around her waist and she needed to get out and use the bathroom.


    She gently removed his arm away and sat up from the bed.


    "Ugh..." She muttered under her breath.


    As she sat up, she could feel the soreness from her bottom. She removed the blanket from her body and gently stood up, hoping not to fall over. Her legs were not sore.. just her crotch.


    "Do you want me to carry you to the bathroom?" Kris propped his head up with his arm and stared at Lena.


    "No." She rejected him and slowly walked to the bathroom.


    She sat in the toilet and relieved herself. However, she noticed that she was still slightly bleeding. Was it normal to bleed after your first time?


    She cleaned herself and got out. She slowly walked back to the bed and sat down. Lena told Kris what happened.


    He immediately sat up from the bed. "We should go see a doctor!"


    "Kris... I think it''s not a big deal. I can go to myself, you have work."


    "Uh... No. I want to be there for every single doctor visit you have."


    Kris rushed out of the room to go to the other room to grabbed some clothes. He came back with into the bedroom with his pants already on and finished buttoning his shirt.


    "I''ll help you get dress." Kris went to her closet and picked a dress for Lena to wear.


    After getting ready, Kris carried Lena to the elevator and into the car. Even though she told him she can walk fine, he didn''t want to put extra strain on her. Plus, he wanted to carry her.


    "Are you sure you don''t have anything important this morning?" Lena asked Kris as the arrived at the hospital.


    "Mhm." He nodded.


    Kris parked the car and went to the door. He carried Lena again, princess style.


    "Seriously... here too?"


    "Why not?" Kris smiled.


    It was still early and the hospital was less busy. However, those who were still working widen their eyes as they spot the handsome CEO carrying his beautiful woman inside the hospital.


    "Lena Shen, I would like to see Dr. Linda, please." Lena spoke to the front desk person. "


    She looked at Lena, and then at Kris... She cleared her throat. "Do you have an appointment or is this urgent care?"


    "It''s not urgent. And we don''t have an appointment." Lena replied.


    "Dr. Linda is on her morning rounds at the moment. If you can wait in the waiting room, I''ll page her."


    "Waiting room?" Kris scrunched his brows. He had never needed to wait at all to see a doctor. "Is there any doctor we can see now?"


    "Kris..." Lena glared at him. "I only see Doctor Linda."


    "..." He did not argue with Lena.


    "Plus... what if there are no other female doctor around? You want a man poking inside of me.. hmmm?"


    "..." No, he does not. He glared back at the innocent worker. "We''ll wait." And carried Lena to the waiting room.


    The worker quickly paged Doctor Linda an emergency code, knowing that the almighty Kris Li can buy their hospital right now if he was not satisfied.


    After a minute in the waiting room, Doctor Linda came out personally to get them both.


    "Lena!" Doctor Linda greeted them. No wonder it was an emergency page... she brought the devil with her.


    "I''ll see you right in this room." Doctor Linda led Lena to a room not too far away. Lena walked herself even though Kris was being a stubborn boy.


    "Will Mr. Li be joining us too?" She asked. It was fine to have another person around but she needed to confirm, after all, Doctor Linda had a strict privacy agreement with Lena, hence why Lena only sees her.


    Doctor Linda had treated Lena since she was kidnapped the first time. And she treated her again for the second incident. From then, Lena had privately talked to her and her future treatments and the strict privacy that Lena demanded from her doctor.


    "Yes." Kris replied.


    Lena rolled her eyes at him. "Yeah. He''s fine."


    They entered the exam room and Lena sat down on the examine bedchair.


    "What is the purpose of your visit today?" Doctor Linda pulls out her chart.


    "She''s still bleeding a bit after s*x." Kris immediately answered.

 Chapter 251 - Sassy

    Dr. Linda looked up from her charts. She was a bit amazed that such a cold man was so worried about a small thing.


    "Is it normal?" Lena asked.


    "Have you experienced bleeding before?" Dr. Linda went put on some gloves.


    "It was my first time."


    "Bleeding is fairly normal from your first time. I can give you a quick checkup if you don''t mind."


    Lena sat back on the chair as Dr. Linda put a cloth over Lena, for privacy. Kris continued to stand next to Lena.


    After a quick examine, Dr. Linda discarded her gloves. "I didn''t see any tearing or physical symptoms of infection. I will prescribe you a cream to alleviate the pain, but overall, I think you just need a few days of rest. And during that time, you should refrain from any sexual activity or intense exercise that puts more pressure on the pelvic muscles."


    "Thank you." Lena responded.


    "I don''t see anything concerning at the moment. I can see that you can walk fine and the bleeding is very minor. If you continue to bleed or experience more pain, you should come back for a thorough exam. You can pick up the cream in the pharmacy."


    After they were done and ready to leave, Kris picked up Lena again. He thanked the doctor and head out the door.


    "What are you doing? I can walk fine, you worry too much." Lena nudged him but he still kept a tight hold on her.


    "I have the right to worry."


    "You''re acting like I am pregnant."


    Kris stopped walking and smiled at Lena. "You never know..."


    He carried her to the pharmacy, picked up the cream, and they both went back to the car. He started up the car and drove.


    "You should not go to work today. And I don''t think you should go to the movie premiere tonight too."


    "Wow... you are really overthinking." Lena glared at him. "I will not go to work, agree. But, I am still going to attend the movie premiere. I am going to be sitting the whole time anyway... and it will be out first outing event in public, even though we''re not arriving together."


    "Fine..."


    "See.. compromise. You win, I win." Lena pinched his cheeks as he drove.


    Kris was driving Lena back to the apartment, but at that moment, his phone rang. Lena hit the answer button on the car and Kris answered.


    "What is it?"


    "CEO Li... I have been trying to call you for the last hour." Collin spoke. "Did you not remember that you have your charity meeting this morning?"


    Lena glanced at Kris... he lied to her. He said he had nothing this morning.


    "I forgot about that." Kris replied, knowing that Lena was looking at him right now, but he kept his eyes on the road.


    "Forgot? You''re not a forgetful---" person...


    "I was with Lena." Kris quickly interrupted Collin.


    "Oh..."


    "When was the meeting?" Lena spoke.


    "Oh.. Miss. Shen, you''re here too." Collin realized that he was on speaker now, with both of them. "It was scheduled to start half an hour ago, but I pushed it back."


    "Okay, we''ll be there in 15 minutes."


    "Alright then."


    Lena hit the end button and sat on her seat. "You''re not sending me home. You have a meeting to go to."


    "Where are you going then?"


    "With you, to your work." Lena smiled. "Isn''t it nice? I can stay with you all day long at work instead of getting bored at home being all alone."


    "Fine."


    Kris sped his way to his company. He parked in the CEO designated parking spot and stepped out of his car.


    "Morning, CEO Li." A worker greeted him.


    Kris nodded at him. And he walked over to open the door for Lena but she was already out and walking inside the building.


    Kris quickly rushed up to her and picked her up, swinging her into his arms. He smiled at her and continued to walk inside the building.


    "You---"


    "My house, my rules."


    Lena did not struggle.


    As they walk inside, the doorman, smiled at the CEO and then greeted Lena. Lena smiled back at him.


    Kris walked slowly, showcasing everyone his pretty woman, but Lena just thought that she was a bit heavy for him. As they got inside his private elevator, Kris was still not letting Lena go.


    When the door closed, all the female workers huddled up and looked at the elevator fo up.


    "Did... did you see that?"


    "Oh my! The news was not fake!!"


    "They really are a couple then... Did you see him smile.. he was smiling, right?"


    "Yeah! They look so cute together."


    "Don''t you think she is being sassy?" A voice emerged from the group.


    The girls turned around to see a woman who they were not familiar with.


    "What do you mean?" One of the female workers questioned her.


    "I mean... what kind of woman chase her man to work, he''s here to work, not play around."


    "Play around?" The female workers look at each other.


    "Hey... do you think he''ll start promoting female workers from the secretarial department? Since he has a woman with him now, that means us female workers have a chance to get promoted, right?"


    The girls got off-topic, ignoring the sassy part and focused on the idea that they can get promoted now... to work at the top floor and have a higher wage.


    "You''re right?! I should get back to work and make sure I look good in front of my supervisor."


    "AHH... I still have a report to finish."


    The girls split up and the woman who called Lena sassy bit her lips.


    "Tsk... stupid workers."


    She had plans today inside the Li Company, but after the scene she saw earlier, she decided to turn back. She walked out and got into her car. She grabbed her phone and made a call.


    "I am in City A." She spoke.


    "Already?" A man''s voice could be heard. "You''re not supposed to be here until next month."


    "Things came up.."


    "Like what things?"


    "Like... did you know your woman came to work with my boss today? He carried her sweetly inside. How does that sound, Tyler?"


    "So she is seeing him... that will complicate the original plan."


    "So what? I can get rid of her easily. Piece of cake."


    "Becca!" Tyler raised his voice over the phone. "Don''t you dare you touch her. Do whatever you have to do, but at no circumstance can you touch her. Do you understand me?"


    "...." She did not reply immediately. "Whatever you say."

 Chapter 252 - Pay Attention

    When Kris and Lena got into his floor, Kris carried her immediately to his office and sat her down on his comfy desk chair.


    But what she did not expect was him rolling the chair out with her on it. He pushed her into the meeting room.


    "I am joining you?" Lena asked.


    "I need to keep my eyes on you. You attract too many bees whenever you''re alone."


    "You know... it''s not me. It''s you. If you come to work carrying luggage that is not your suitcase, obviously we''re going to attract bees."


    Lena sat down next to Kris as Collin quickly prep the boss for the meeting, updating him quickly on the notes. After 10 more minutes, more people entered the meeting room and immediately sense the elephant in the room... Lena.


    Every smiled sweetly, greeting their boss and obviously the great goddess next to him.


    "Morning, CEO Li and Miss. Shen."


    "Good morning Ceo Li. Morning, Miss. Shen."


    Lena smiled back at them as the room filled up. The meeting started promptly. Lena paid attention at first... but then she realized that meeting had private information that she should probably not be exposed to. So to filter out the information, Lena started to focus on the ring on her finger instead.


    Lena twirled the ring around, trying to see if she wanted her own wedding ring to be bigger or the same weight as the one she has now. Lena liked necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. However, she was not a major fan of rings unless they were needed.


    "Is he boring you?" Kris asked Lena.


    Lena glanced up to look at Kris and realized the young man who was speaking stop presenting. Lena realized that all eyes were on her.


    "No..." She replied.


    "He''s boring you, isn''t he. You stopped paying attention." Before Lena could reply Kris spoke again. "Switch him out with someone new."


    The young man heart stopped. This was his first presentation, he had just finally got promoted to the charity organization of the Li group... and now, he blew it up.


    "No. He''s fine. He''s not boring. His voice is not monotone and very nice to listen to." Lena stopped Kris.


    "Very nice to listen to...?" Kris didn''t like the sound of that. He glared at the young man. "Switch him out."


    "Hey... Do you really want me to say it here?" Lena mumbled under her breath but Kris did not reply. "I was not bored, okay?" She raised her voice. "It''s just that I am sitting next to you and your handsome face is more attractive than the presentation."


    Kris cleared his throat and slightly blushed. That small reaction did not escape anyone''s eye in the room.


    "Additionally, I am not an employee here, so technically, I am not even supposed to be here. Aren''t these private financial information regarding your company?"


    "You''re not an employee.. but you will become the future Madam of this company once we get married. Charity will be something you would be handling."


    ''The future Madam Li...'' Everyone clearly heard it come out of their boss'' mouth. They were all thankful that they did not get on the bad side of Lena Shen yet.


    Kris had his work face on... his cold and indifferent look. "Continue."


    "Um... Do you want to still switch me out, CEO Li?" The young man asked.


    "No. Did you not hear her? She said she liked your voice. You can continue."


    The young man looked at Kris. He did not know if Kris was scarier now or before. "Oh.. okay." He swallowed and composed himself again.


    Kris glanced over at Lena. "And you. Pay attention, I don''t like things getting repeated again. You can look at my face when we are at home instead."


    Lena avoided eye contact with Kris... he did not need to say that last part. She straightened her back as the young man continue his report. Lena made sure to listen carefully this time.


    After the presentation was finished, Kris turned to Lena again. "What do you think?"


    Lena felt like he was torturing her. She only processed 2/3rd of the presentation. She looked at the documents on the table.


    "Hmmm.... You''re losing a lot of money for this funding. But, it''s a donation fund that you are using. So for this particular reason, money should not be an obstacle." Lena flipped the page of the document.


    "What do you see?" Kris asked. He actually already see some flaws in the plan, but he wanted to hear Lena''s opinion.


    "How many people here are parents?" Lena asked.


    About 80% of the people here raised their hands.


    "And would you all take the time to drive across the city to pick up your child and then drive back home?"


    Everyone shook their head and they understood why Lena asked the question.


    "That''s right. The program you want to fund is a wonderful concept. It will create a good opportunity toward lower-income families and families that cannot afford someone to watch their kids while they are at work. However, the location of the program is highly inconvenient for your target audience.


    You have your main locations on areas where it is highly inaccessible. The public transportations are horrible or do not reach these locations. These are some things you need to factor in when looking at locations."


    The planning team immediately starting taking pointer notes on what Lena was explaining.


    "I would suggest choosing locations that are near a larger population where the target audience live or work. Make sure there are good public transportation routes and times near the location."


    Lena flipped a few more pages of the presentation before speaking again. "A strong point I see is that your application process for employees and volunteers are strict and well planned. It is good to make sure everyone is experienced and comfortable with children."


    Kris smiled at Lena. It was not that he was doubtful of Lena... but he wanted to have a woman''s opinion on the funding project.


    He does not allow women to work on his floor due to his condition, but he had never shut down their ideas and contributions. Over the years, he had noticed that many of his female workers would squeal far away but when faced with him, they are very silent.


    Kris somewhat hoped that with the presence of Lena now... maybe some of them would be more empowered.


    The Li Group own many casinos and bars... but many of their profit is given back to help build the country and grow the children of the future.


    Kris continued to give his suggestion and pointers on the weak sections of the proposal. The meeting was concluded afterward and everyone left. Kris thanked everyone for their hard work.


    "Was I really distracting you with my handsome face?" Kris asked after everyone left.


    "No."


    "You could do a white lie every now and then. My heart would be happier."


    "I am leaving." Lena spoke.


    "Is that a white lie...?" Kris studied her.


    "No. I am really leaving. I already texted James to come to pick me up. I need to eat, meet up with Hazel to get ready for the movie premiere. And you know how long girls can take to get ready."


    "Very well..." Kris kissed her forehead. "Don''t walk too much and I''ll see you tonight."


    "Mhm..." Lena quickly got up from the comfy chair and rushed out before Kris changed his mind and decide to carry her out down to the ground floor.

 Chapter 253 - Hes not my pet

    When they both met up, Hazel took Lena out to get a professional look done. Although the event was nothing major for Lena, it was a good time for Hazel and Lena to just hang out.


    Lena never went to many VIP private stores to get her to look done unless she as with Hazel.


    ''Should I start investing in a VIP membership... since I am with Kris now?'' Lena pondered as she flipped over the fashion magazine, waiting for Hazel to come out of the changing room.


    "Are you seriously wearing that?" Hazel came out of the dressing room.


    "Yes...?" Lena glanced down at her dress. It looked completely fine to her. She told the dresser that she did not want something too fancy. It''s not her star debut, she was just a guest.


    "Your Kris will be there. You need to dress to impress."


    "I only need to impress him, not anyone else."


    "Good. Then I''ll choose something to surely impress him. C''mon!" Hazel dragged Lena back to the changing room and picked a different dress for her.


    Finally after another hour of final touches, Hazel and Lena arrived at the movie premiere. There were many reporters there as the cast had many famous actors and actresses.


    Lena texted Kris before and he replied that he would be coming a bit late.


    Hazel got out of the car first, catching the attention of the reporters and paparazzi.


    "It''s Hazel! She staring in Miss. Lui''s next film."


    The lights start flickering toward Lena as she got out of the car next. She had been to many events with Hazel, but she''ll never get used to the lights.


    As she stepped out, she wore a long, one-shoulder dress, with an opening just the correct length to showcase the beauty of her legs: strong and sexy.


    "Look! It''s Lena Shen."


    "Isn''t she dating Mr. Li now? I need to get a picture of her."


    Lena smiled at the cameras and walked slowly with Hazel. Hazel would stop every so often to allow them to take photos of her, thus Lena too.


    "Why isn''t she here with Mr. Li instead?"


    "She always comes to these events with the actress, they are best friends."


    "Eh? Maybe her relationship with Mr. Li isn''t as good as the rumors."


    Hazel and Lena finally walked past the entrance. Hazel quickly held Lena''s hand.


    "Don''t listen to them... they only want hot news. Plus, if you ditched me for him, I would chop off his ding dong and you would leave him so quickly, you won''t remember him."


    "Geez... And I thought Kris was possessive. My girlfriend is on the same level."


    "Of course! You attract devils." Hazel smiled.


    They stopped and had a chat with Elizabeth and Henry before they entered the event room. Hazel quickly mingled with some models and actresses as Lena trailed along.


    "Hazel!" The girls greeted her.


    "Lily..." Hazel smiled back at her. "Didn''t think you would be here."


    "Why? Becuase you caught the role of Director Liu''s next project instead of me?"


    Hazel smirked back at the actress. Of course, Hazel loves snatching things from Lily.


    "You probably only got the role because of little Miss. Shen. Her secretary is dating the director."


    "Excuse me, Lady... He''s not my secretary nor is he a secretary. I would watch what you say in front of me." Lena remarked.


    "Please... don''t call me lady. You think that your pretend boyfriend is Kris Li now, that you can throw your shades around? You didn''t even come to the event with him... and you call yourself dating him."


    "I didn''t see a law that says girlfriend must-attend events with boyfriend." Lena turned to Hazel. "Did a new law gets passed that I did not know about?"


    "You---" Lily pointed her finger at Lena. "Of course it''s not a law."


    "Well then, I don''t see why it is your business to say whether I attend events with him or not."


    Lily put her hand down and walked closer to Lena. "I was just trying to help you keep up your image. You lose your first man to pauper... maybe because you didn''t keep him close enough to you."


    "...." Lena stared at the woman.


    "Aw... You must of not heard. Didn''t you know Kris Li arrived with a different woman?"


    ''Someone else..?'' Lena''s heart stopped for a second. ''He told me he was going to be late... He did not mention coming with someone. He wouldn''t lie to me.''


    "So.... He can come with whomever he wants to, the same as me. Plus, he''s not my pet that I need to chain around and have him walk next to me.?"


    "Who''s your pet?"


    All the girls looked at where the voice came. Kris casually walked in and toward them. He smiled at Lena, put a hand on her waist, brought his head to her, and gave her a kiss on the forehead.


    "What did I miss?" His hand was still on her waist.


    "CEO Li!" Lily greeted him first. "We were just talking. Didn''t you come with Nina Long?"


    ''Nina? Isn''t she that stupid lawyer that I met when I was at the Elder Li''s house?'' Lena glanced at Kris. She was curious too.


    "I did?" Kris replied, pulling Lena closer to him. "I came alone. Unless you were talking about that weird girl who kept posing pictures with me. I didn''t come with her... she probably just want some front-page news because I am amazing like that."


    Nina waiting on the streets until she knew that Kris'' car was arriving. She purposely arrived on time with him so she could take some pictures with the man. When they entered the event room, she went to grab some drinks for them.


    As she was bringing them back, she heard what Kris said... she immediately felt shameful and turned around.


    Lily, on the other hand, just awkwardly smile. "I see... ahaha.... why didn''t you come with Miss. Shen?"


    "Was there a new law that passed about couples attending events together? Am I getting charged?" Kris glanced at Lena and then at Hazel.


    Both of them tried not to laugh.


    "Ah.. Since you are here, I''ll let you spend time with Miss. Shen... I have something to do anyways." Lily quickly left.

 Chapter 254 - On and off relationship

    Hazel and Lena both watched as the woman walked away. However, Kris''s eyes were on the only woman he really sees. Lena was different today.


    Her hair was done by a professional, he can tell. And her makeup was on point. Although she would look marvelous regardless.


    "Mhhn!" Hazel cleared her throat.


    Kris looked up from staring at Lena and finally saw the friend. Yes, the friend that Kris does not like so much.


    "I believe we have not officially met under new circumstances." Hazel took out her hand for a shake. "Hazel Yang... but you can just call me Hazle."


    "Hello, Miss. Yang." Kris looked at her hand but did not shake it.


    Hazel took her hand back awkwardly, using it to touch her necklace instead so it was not so weird.


    "So... are you going to get some pictures with Lena?"


    Hazel asked because if Kris was seen arriving with someone else, it will be gossip news tomorrow. However, if he took some photos with Lena, then surely they would overpower the nonsensical news.


    "I would love to, but we''re not here to steal the light from the actors, actresses and the production crew who worked hard for this release." Kris replied back.


    "You''re right. There will be many other times you both can shine." Hazel smiled. Her eyes suddenly spot someone entered the event room and her heart skipped a beat. "Oh! I have to go... Lena, you can go sit with Kris instead. Don''t wait up for me."


    "Hmm?" Lena eyed Hazel as she sped away, pushing through the crowds.


    Hazel picked up two drinks and walked to a tall handsome man. He smiled at her and took her drink.


    "She... like Ming Zhou?" Kris looked at Hazel, happily chatting away with the man.


    "Um... I don''t know. She has an on and off relationship between liking and not liking him." Lena answered him. "I think she really likes him... like since forever, hence why she can never have a long relationship with someone. But don''t tell her that, she''s just going to deny it."


    "Well, you should stay away from him. Anything more than your business relationship with him is not allowed."


    "Says the man who was spotted arriving at the event with a different woman."


    "Are you jealous?" Kris smirked.


    "Obviously. I had told you before that I am a very jealous woman. I just don''t openly express my jealousy."


    "That''s even scarier..." Kris held Lena close to him as he led them to their seats.


    Lena sat on the comfortable chair next to Kris. The event should be starting in 10 minutes or so, other people were taking their seats too.


    "Kris." Lena called his name.


    "Mhm?" Kris was still holding Lena''s hand, unattentive of anything else.


    "Don''t you know Lily?"


    "Lily? I don''t think I know a Lily."


    "The woman who was talking to me and Hazel before you came."


    "Yeah, I don''t know her."


    "No... you do. She was gone for a long time because.... she fell on you. You... like disfigured her, or so that''s what the rumors said. She got plastic surgery."


    "Disfigured? Now, I do remember something like that... she lived?"


    "You... seriously. Are you going to say I lived too?" Lena glared at him. It was in the past... but she still remembered that he once put a hit on her.


    "We don''t speak about that... it''s my greatest mistake." Kris replied. "But if you want me to confess and apologize until I drop dead, I will do so, only for you."


    "That''s not it... I am just astonished at how unforgetful you are of people''s face."


    "Only to those that do not matter. They are insignificant."


    The lights started to dim as the event start. There were a few talks, short introductions and then the movie trailer was released. The event went on for an awhile before it was time for some Q&A with the cast.


    After it ended, there was some light refreshment for everyone as they all chat more about upcoming dramas and congratulate the crew and casts.


    As for Lena, she did not want to stay longer. She had an exhausting night before, and she just wanted to go home and rest well. Too much standing was not too good on her current condition.


    "Are you tired? We can go home so you can rest."


    "Aren''t you here for work though?" Lena answered him.


    "..." Kris did only come to this for work. Lena being here was just extra. "You''re more important than work."


    "Naw... it''s fine. I''ll go home myself. You''ll only stay here for a bit anyway. You can finish your work, then come home and be with me, win-win." Lena smiled at him.


    "Okay... But take my car. I don''t want you to take a taxi home." Kris handed Lena his parking ticket.


    "What about you?"


    "Don''t you worry about me. I''ll make sure not to get a ride home with a random stranger though." He pulled Lena in closely and kissed her forehead once be she left.


    As Lena drove home, she stopped by the grocery market to pick some quick things. They were going to her parents on Sunday. She still needed some stuff for the fridge to cook for Kris and her tomorrow.


    She only got one bag of food so it was easy for her to carry it up. She entered the elevator and pressed the top floor for Kris'' place instead of hers.


    As the door open, and Lena stepped out, she noticed that the light in Kris''s room was lit.


    ''Is he home already? I didn''t even take that long at the grocery store.'' Lena wondered.


    She turned on the light in the kitchen and placed the bag on the counter. She slowly walked to Kris'' bedroom door and opened the door.


    What she saw was not Kris... but an unknown woman in his room. Her hair was wet and she was wearing one of Kris'' shirt. She was drying her hair with a small towel. She must have just got off the shower.


    The woman turned to Lena. "Who are you?!?"


    "Me?" Lena scoffed. "I should be asking you that. Who the f*ck are you?"


    "

 Chapter 255 - Not what it seems

    =========


    When Lena left, Kris was able to accomplish the business he had come for today. He was able to discuss contracts with a few of the rising stars and top stars for the upcoming Li advertisements for his businesses.


    He was just ending a conversation with one of the stars when his phone rang. He had it on silent, but it would only ring if it was an emergency... he wondered what it could be.


    "Excuse me." Kris stepped out to a quieter place with no one around and picked up the call. "What is it?"


    "We''re detecting some suspicious activity from your penthouse," Keso answered.


    "What do you mean? Someone is trying to break in?"


    "We''re not sure. It''s not ground activity, it air activity. We have no visual yet, we''re sending in a drone right now as we speak."


    "Dammit!" Kris rushed out, but remembered he did not have his car. "Where is Lena right now?"


    "Uh...."


    Keso had been sticking with Gary the past few days since his break. He was working late with Gary on a situation when the security system alerted them. A helicopter had been hovering above''s Kris penthouse for longer than a pass by.


    It was too dark to have a good visual on it. The cameras on Kris'' rooftop cannot detect it good enough, meaning that the helicopter must be on their blindsides. Keso immediately sent out a drone for better visuals.


    "Tracking her now." Gary opened up Lena''s tracker on her phone. "She''s driving there, now. She''ll arrive there in about 3 minutes."


    "Call Hugh to meet me at the back." Kris commanded. Kris took out his personal phone and call Lena, but the call immediately lost connection. "Why does she have her phone off at this moment?!"


    "I don''t think that is the problem... I just lost her signal from her cell. I think someone is jamming the area." Gary replied. "Let me see if I can get into the building''s access and lock her in the elevator."


    "Sending Alpha Team to the location. We''ll have visual on the target in 15 seconds." Keso added.


    There were so many things going on at the same time. Keso was focused on finding a visual on their threat. Gary was locating Lena and trying to stop her. Kris was impatiently waiting for his ride.... he felt useless. Why did he have to let her go home... he should have just gone with her.


    In a flash, Ming Zhou pulled up his car and Kris quickly got in.


    "What''s the situation?" Ming Zhou asked.


    He just got an emergency message and immediately left. He was tired anyways... Now that Kris is taken and Andy Yang is so secluded now since his last break-up, Ming Zhou had been surrounded by so many women.


    "We got visual." Keso connected the screen to Kris'' phone. The drone shot the moment someone jumped out of the plane and landed on the rooftop.


    "B*tch." Kris mumbled.


    "Hmm?" Ming Zhou was confused, but he focused on driving like a mad man.


    "Send back the Alpha team. What is the location on Lena?"


    "There seems to be something blocking me. I can either lock Lena in or chase the hackers." Gary was a pro at what he was doing, but if he took the time to go pass the hacker and lock Lena in the elevator, the hackers would be gone by then once they know they were compromised.


    "Follow the hackers." Kris replied. "Lena can handle the threat."


    Ming Zhou felt like he was left out. He glanced at the screen on Kris'' phone and pressed on the gas. "Why is she here?"


    "Breaking commands, obviously."


    After a few minutes, Ming Zhou stopped at the back of the apartment building. Kris opened the door and got out. Without any words exchanged between the two, Ming Zhou drove back to his own place. He would not like to stay for the show, especially with the look of Kris when he left.


    "I want a location on the hackers by the time I call back." Kris commanded and then hung up the call.


    Kris pressed the elevator button and waited for a few seconds before it arrived. He got in and pushed the button for the top floor.


    ===========


    "Who the f*ck are you?"


    What Lena did not anticipate was that the woman immediately pulled a gun to her face. Obviously, Lena knew that she made a few stupid assumptions. One, thinking that Kris was home. Two, trusting that Kris security system was foolproof.


    A gun to her face... Lena was planning to play the cute, bratty girl card at first... but it seemed like she would need to go with plan B.


    Plan B, some b*tch a*s kicking.


    Without a second to think some more, Lena grabbed the gun with her left arm, twist the wrist and hit the woman''s nose with her palm. The women immediately faltered back, unexpected and lost her grip on the gun.


    The woman did not expect Lena to know any self-defense. Her information had nothing about this. Lena was able to land a hit on her, but that was because she underestimated her opponent. She will not let Lena have a second -----.


    "Ah!" She screeched.


    Lena did not let the woman continue to think. She pulled her hair down, grabbed the gun off her, and smack the lady once more, with the gun using her left hand.


    Lena tossed the gun aside and tripped the woman down onto the floor. She gave her a chokehold as she pinned her feet on the ground.


    "I''ll ask one more time. Who the f*ck are you?!!"


    *Cough cough* The woman tried to take a breath. ''Does this woman want an answer? or to kill me?''


    Lena tightened her choke on the lady. No, she was really not expecting an answer. Anyone intruding her home without permission, no mercy. And especially someone who is wearing HER boyfriend''s clothes, yeah... dead no, no.


    "Lena!"


    Lena glanced up and she spotted Kris at the bedroom door.


    "Let her go."

 Chapter 256 - Think again

    "Let her go." Kris commanded.


    With his fierce instruction, Lena immediately let the woman go. Lena quickly walked over the woman, who was sprawled onto the floor. Lena ran and hugged him.


    "I was so scared!!!" She whimpered...obviously not real.


    The woman got up, panting as she patted her chest. "You, you almost killed me!"


    "Becca!" Kris shouted her name.


    "You know her?" Lena stopped hugging and looked up at him. "I was so scared for my life, and you know her?! I thought I was the only woman allowed here!"


    "Babe... you are the only one allow up here." Kris consoled her, trying to hug her again but Lena refused it. He glared at Becca, who stared at the couple with ill-intent. "You dare break into your boss'' private home?"


    "I----" Becca looked at Lena, who obviously smirked for one second then hid it. ''This woman! She is faking her stupid act so Kris is on her side. He was right to say that she was a danger to him.''


    "I am sorry, boss!" Becca held her stomach to which both Kris and Lena saw that she was bleeding. "I got hurt and almost compromised my mission. I had to go somewhere safe, I thought you would be with your mother so I snuck in..."


    Kris looked at Becca, but his expression was stern, not showing what he was even thinking about.


    "Ah.. I am so sorry." Lena spoke. "I didn''t know she was injured and I... I even hurt her some more. I didn''t know she worked for you."


    "It''s not your fault." Kris patted Lena''s head then kissed it. "It''s my fault for allowing someone inside to scare you."


    "I am very sorry for scaring you, Miss. Shen. You were only defending yourself, my stab wound is only minor to your health and security."


    Lena looked at Becca and saw that this time, the woman smirked at her. ''This woman... does she think playing compliant will work on Kris? Please, I am the ace of babying my man. You''ll never achieve that.''


    "Lena... Why don''t you go get some warm water and the first aid kit?" Kris asked.


    "Ok."


    When Lena left, Kris closed the door tight and then turned to look at Becca. His unemotional and sweeter side immediately turned cold and infuriated.


    "You dare lie in front of me?!" His words send down a cold shill down Becca''s spine. "Tell me, why are you here? What is so important that you disobeyed commands and to even jump out of a helicopter to enter my home?"


    "I..." Becca instantly got onto the ground. She knew that she needed to choose her next words wisely. "Ace. I heard that he came back and approached you. If he is here, then I should be here with you. We don''t know what he is up to."


    "We?? Do you seriously think that your presence here can change anything? Ace is not a threat to me, but people who cannot obey my commands are."


    "Please, I won''t do it again. Tyler is in City A so I needed to be here. I was careless when I tried to enter his underground base to steal some information."


    "Why are you so careless all of a sudden? You have been tasked to stay close with Tyler for almost two years now... I have told you countless time to be patient. This isn''t something you can mess up."


    "I understand... It won''t happen again. I will not jeopardize the mission." She got up.


    "And..." Kris walked closer to her and Becca swallowed. "How do you even know... Miss. Shen?"


    Becca slipped and called Lena that before. "The news... and the men at work."


    "I see... and are they the one who helped you hack into the system too?"


    Becca''s heart stopped. How did Kris know?


    From her reaction, Kris got his answer. He grabbed her neck and squeezed it. He was hurting her but she did not make a sound...


    "Did you think that because I can touch women now... I''ll be soft on you?" Kris squeezed her neck more. "I don''t like people who are disobedient to me. You will call her Lady Boss, and no other names. You should know very well what I do with useless people."


    Lena knocked on the door and Kris released his hold on Becca. Lena opened the door and brought in some hot water and the first aid kit.


    "You can leave them there, she''ll take care of herself." Kris spoke and held Lena''s waist. He walked them out of the room and closed the door.


    Becca watched them leave and clenched her fists... her nails digging into her skin.


    Kris sat on the sofa with Lena and hugged her tightly from behind. He smelled her sweet scent and sighed.


    "I was so scared... what would I do if something bad happens to you?" Kris whispered to her ear.


    "Tsk...before it was a woman posing pictures with you and now there is a half-naked woman in your room. The question is... what should I do to YOU?" Lena replied.


    Kris smiled and held her tighter. "You can do anything... like ANYTHING." He nudged Lena''s butt.


    "The doctor said none of that. I guess that is your punishment."


    "But really though..." Kris loosened his hold on Lena. "I like when you are cute and cuddly, even if you are just pretending."


    "Did you know she pointed a gun at me?"


    "What?!" Kris got serious. ''That woman.... I need to punish her severely after today.''


    "And I landed a good hit on her. Did you see her face?" Lena smiled.


    "You knew her though... didn''t you? The moment you saw her."


    Lena turned around and looked at Kris. "Of course, you showed me a picture before, that day you took me out to the middle of nowhere. She looked prettier in the pictures... just saying."


    "She disobeyed my commands, jeopardizing her mission and disrespected her lady boss, I''ll make sure she gets properly disciplined and punished." Kris kissed Lena''s cheeks.


    "I am not going to tell you how to handle your own people. But I can tell you how I am going to handle you."


    Lena placed a hand on Kris''s neck, and pulled him close for a kiss. She captured his lips.


    "Is this. How. You are. Handling me?" Kris spoke, in between the kisses.


    "After. You just look very bad*ss hot right now."


    Kris smiled at her before capturing her lips. Unlike her, he dived in deeper, spreading the hint of wine that he had before rushing over here.


    Lena could taste the sweet wine from Kris. She heard the door open from the bedroom, and that only made her tug Kris closer to her, deepening the kiss between them.


    Kris also heard the door open and Becca stepping out of the room. If Lena wants a show, he does not mind. He put tighten his hands on her waist and bent her over a bit, just so he can get a deeper kiss from her.


    Becca did not think they would continue when she entered the living room, but they kept going, ignoring her like she did not exist.


    It was not after a few long minutes that Kris finally let Lena go. She was breathless and he was... well, just the usually him, like a man who could never get enough.


    "You''re done?" Kris still nibbling a few kisses on Lena''s forehead. "You can leave then. Stay at the safe house in City A for awhile if you want."


    "It''s late." Lena pulled away from Kris. "And she''s hurt. She should stay here tonight."


    Kris looked at Lena in confusion. ''Doesn''t she want her gone....? What are you up to this time... you mischevious tigress.''

 Chapter 257 - All the rooms are soundproof

    "It is late..." Kris replied. If she wanted to play, then he''ll let her tigress play. "She can stay in your room."


    "Miss... I mean, the Lady Boss has a separate room here?" Becca''s eyes lit up for a bit. They sleep in a separate room so, they must not be so close yet.


    "I live on a different floor. But..." Lena put her hands on Kris'' chest. "he follows me everywhere, so it''s doesn''t matter where we live or sleep. Isn''t that right?"


    Kris nodded at Lena. Lena looked back at Becca who was silenced yet once more.


    "Oh... but she shouldn''t sleep in my room. I mean... not after what we did yesterday." Lena let out a giggle and slapped Kris'' gently on his chest. "I think we were in a rush this morning that we didn''t even clean my bed. How can we let her sleep in our DIRTY mess...hmmm?"


    "You''re right. She can sleep in your guest room then." Kris replied.


    "But that is your room... how can I let another woman sleep in your room. How about, she just sleep up here in your guest room. That way, all of us would be together in case she gets a fever later on in the night."


    "..." Kris looked at Lena. He felt that it would not be Becca getting a fever tonight... but him. "Fine."


    "Oh... and a single woman like you should not wear other men''s clothes... make you look like a slut. You can come with me and we can try to fit you into some of my clothes... that is if you can fit into my clothes." Lena looked at her breasts, and then at Becca''s smaller ones.


    Lena had an hourglass figure while Becca was straight and less curvy.


    ''Slut.... this woman called me a slut! And she even dares to compare our bodies in front of Kris...'' Becca gritted her teeth. "Thank you, Lady Boss."


    "Kris, why don''t you wash the vegetables while I help Becca get change?" Lena gave him a peck on his cheek then walked toward the elevator. Becca reluctantly followed her.


    Becca entered the elevator with Lena. The door closed and Lena pressed her floor button.


    "I am truly sorry about before, I didn''t think that Kris had female workers in his private team." Lena spoke.


    "It''s alright, Lady Boss." Becca kept her composure, knowing that Kris has cameras everywhere. The only blind spot she found was on the roof.


    Becca knew that Lena was coming home so she waited just the perfect moment to stage the scene for her... but Becca underestimated the bratty woman''s appearance and Kris'' seriousness with her.


    "It''s understandable that the Lady boss doesn''t know much about Kris'' private team. After all, he would only tell such things to people he really trusts."


    "Is that how you see it? If it''s about trust, then you wouldn''t need to break into his home, would you?" Lena smiled innocently at the woman. "Besides, I am not a pesky woman who need to demand every single little detail about Kris."


    The elevator stopped and Lena walked out first. They both immediately spot the clothes on the ground, all over the living room.


    "Don''t mind those..." Lena continued to walk to her bedroom.


    Becca glanced at the ground and ignored it. She stared at Lena''s back as if wanting to strangle the woman right there and then.


    They got into the room, and it was similarly messy too. The bed was not made yet and the sheets were wrinkled.


    She led Becca to her closet and told her to choose anything she wanted. Becca just chose something comfortable to wear, she did not want to be hollered as a slut from Lena or Kris. Lena also got changed out of her dress.


    "Thank you, Lady Boss."


    "You don''t have to call me that, sounds weird. Just call me Lena when we''re alone. I know Kris is strict on names but you''ll probably be the only woman I''ll see around anyways."


    "Very well then, Lena..."


    "We should go back soon. I don''t want Kris unsupervised in the kitchen." Lena spoke and then they both went up to the penthouse again.


    Kris was a bit worried leaving Lena with Becca, but he knew that if anything were to happen, his girl knows how to handle herself. When they both returned, Kris was finishing up, washing the vegetables.


    "Becca, you know how to cook?" Lena asked.


    "Uh... No, I do not. It was not a skill necessary in the field."


    "It''s a skill to keep a man though." Lena smiled and walked over to Kris. She gave him a peck on the cheek. "Thank, bae. You should go change then you can come back and chat with your employee."


    Employee... Lena was basically stating Becca''s role here. Kris walked back to his room to change. After changing, Kris made a private call.


    When he came out, Becca was sitting on the sofa. Kris gave her a glance before going back to the kitchen to help Lena.


    After a while, dinner was ready and set. Kris sat on the same side as Lena while Becca sat opposite of them. They ate and did not speak much. When they were done, Lena showed Becca to the guest room.


    "We''re just going to be in Kris'' room if you need anything," Lena said.


    "You''ll be sleeping with him tonight?"


    "I sleep with him every night. Oh, and don''t worry, all the rooms are soundproof." Lena smiled and then walked out, making sure to close the door.


    Lena walked back to Kris'' room. She locked the door and walked up to him.


    "So.. what''s my punishment?" Kris asked.


    "Seriously, I would hit your face, but it''s too handsome. I can kick your balls, but I want kids. I would make you sleep on the floor, but you like a hard surface. Even if I made you sleep outside, you have been through worse that it would not even be a punishment for you."


    "Okay.... Can we still shower together?"


    "No." Lena walked inside the bathroom. After a few minutes, she came out with a towel around her body. "Are you coming in or not?"


    "But you said no..."


    "Don''t you know women? Sometimes no means YES, YES, YES."


    Kris smiled at her. He took off his shirt and walked up to Lena to give her a kiss. "No, then."


    "Stupid. It doesn''t work the same for men."


    Lena pulled him inside and locked the bathroom door.


    After a quick shower together, and getting ready for bed, both of them crawled into the hard bed together. Kris put his arms around Lena and pulled her close to him.


    "I won''t be here when you wake up." Kris softly told Lena.


    "Where are you going? Is Becca going to leave with you?"


    "Yes."


    "I don''t like her one bit."


    "I don''t like her too." Kris kissed Lena''s neck and rested his chin on her shoulder, hugging her from behind.


    "Are you going to kill her?"


    "Do you want me to kill her?"


    "You can''t kill her..." Lena responded.


    "I can kill anyone you want me to kill."


    "You can''t kill her.... because she is from the Wang family."


    "She may work for me, but she is someone from my mother''s side. Regardless, my mother would need to choose between a useless woman or her future daughter-in-law. I already know who I would choose."

 Chapter 258 - Productive things

    When Lena woke up the next morning, as Kris told her last night, he was gone already with Becca. He left her a note, saying that people will come later on in the afternoon to upgrade the security system.


    Lena was hoping to spend the day with Kris, but she guessed she can go out and do some of her own productive things today instead. She ate a small breakfast and then head out.


    Kris dropped Becca off at the safe house in the city and then immediately drove to the Li mansion. He was not even parked when Madam Li was already outside so early in the morning, waiting for him.


    Kris got out of his car and Madam Li rushed to him.


    "So... am I going to hear good news soon?" Madam Li grinned.


    Kris did not smile at all. Instead, to Madam Li, he looked angry.


    "What...? Did something not work out? Did... did you not satisfy her? Mother can help you with that." She added.


    "Mother would hear wedding bells and babies crying faster if people would stop interferring." Kris spoke.


    "Who is? Are your grandparents bother you again?"


    Kris walked inside as Madam Li followed him into the living room. He sat down on the main sofa and stared at his mother. "No, it''s Becca."


    "Becca?"


    "Did you know she broke into my house? Pointed a gun at Lena... I don''t think I need to tell you what would happen if anything harms Lena. All the hard work I did with her the night before would have gone to waste. Who knows? Maybe she is carrying your grandson right now?"


    Kris knew that it had just been two days and Lena was on birth controls, but if just mentioning grandkids would make his mother think more logically, then he''ll play that card.


    "Where is Becca now?" Madam Li was displeased too.


    "I sent her to the safe house in the city. She''s already terminated from me. I haven''t done anything to her since I thought I would come and inform you first. After all, I know you took care of her after her parents died."


    Kris stood up from the sofa. "But let me express it only once to you, mother, if Becca comes near Lena again the same way she did yesterday, I would not care if she was your real daughter or not. I hope you can deal with her appropriately if not, your son knows several ways on how to discipline people."


    Madam Li had taken in Becca when her parents died. Becca was the granddaughter of her uncle, from the Wang family. No one wanted to take Becca in but since Madam Li did not have many children and with her ongoing struggle with Kris during that time, she took Becca in.


    One could say Becca grew up with Kris when he was recovering... but to Kris, the woman was just air. Any woman was air. Madam Li guessed that after all this time, the girl had gone rogue.


    "What about Ace?" Madam Li pointed out.


    Kris was walking out but he stopped and turned around to look at Madam Li. "What about him? He said he came back to protect his sister-in-law... well I guess he too, needs to choose between his sister-in-law or the girl he loved. A real test on his trust and motive."


    Kris turned around again and walked out to his car. He has much to do yet.


    After Kris left, Madam Li made a call.


    "Yes, Madam?" A voice answered.


    "Where are you now?"


    "I am at the Old Li Mansion."


    "Why are you there?"


    "I am not sure... Miss. Shen came out early to the mansion this morning. I just follow her as you instruct."


    "Then you were with her yesterday night too?"


    "Yes, Madam."


    "Then what were you doing when a gun was pointed at her?" Madam Li raised her voice.


    "The gun was not loaded. And the woman was just throwing a trap for Miss. Shen. I detected that the Miss was not in danger so I stayed in my position. Likewise, the Miss handled the situation herself pretty well. There was no need for me to interfere unless Madam wants me to in the future."


    "No. What you assessed was correct. I don''t want you to move out unless she is in real danger."


    "Would Madam like me to watch Miss. Becca instead?"


    "No. Kris has his people on her. She is a dead end... if she is no use to my son, then she is no use to me."


    Madam Li ended the call after a few more words of exchange. Four sighed and put the phone back in his pocket. He took out his binoculars again, wondering what Lena was doing at the Old Li Mansion.


    It was really hard to watch her when she was at Kris house. Four stationed himself in the tall building next to theirs instead. Last night, he was already alerted when he spotted the helicopter hovering over the building. He had his sniper rifle ready to eliminate the target, but once he realized and assessed the situation, he let Lena handled the rest.


    Lena looked like a pretty woman, but she had her own hidden strength. After all, people say never judge a book by its cover.


    Lena did not stay long in the Old Li Mansion. She came out after 20 minutes or so. Four went back to his car and followed Lena, wherever she was going next.


    After 30 minutes of driving, Lena stopped at a paintball arena. James walked out and greeted Lena.


    "Are you sure this is what you want to do?" James asked Lena, walking her inside.


    "Yep. I need to shoot someone and I can''t do that with a real gun."


    ''So.. you''re just going to shoot me instead?'' James shuddered. His student has graduated... and her way of celebration was shooting the teacher... what did he even teach her to do?


    Lena smiled and went to get ready for some paintball games.


    =============


    After Kris was done speaking with his mother, he drove out to Area 2. When he arrived, Keso immediately greeted him.


    "Where are they?"


    "They are in the interrogation room. I''ll take you there." Keso replied, leading Kris to the room.


    Kris opened the door and entered the room. Four men were sitting in the room.


    "Boss!"


    "Boss?" Kris scoffed. "Am I really your boss?"


    "Boss! You''re the only boss we have!" They all shouted.


    "Then tell me why you all helped Becca break into my home?"


    "We---" One of them stuttered but did not continue.


    "I understand that the lady is quite charming, it is her specialty to get into a man''s head hence why she was placed on her current mission. But two of you are married.... how did she make the both of you break protocols?" Kris'' stern and aggressive voice demanded an answer.


    "Boss!" One of the married men answered as he looked down on the floor, not daring to look straight into Kris'' eyes. "Miss. Becca had always been close to you so when she told us what she wanted, we didn''t question her..."


    "Close to me? When had she ever been close to me?!"


    "Well... she... she was close with Brother Ace..."


    "Ace? And where is he now?"


    "...." All of the four men had no replies... they knew what happened to Ace.


    "This is ridiculous. Seems like I have been gone too much that people think that I am too lenient lately..."


    "Boss, we don''t ---" Before the man can finish his sentence, a gunshot was fired.


    The other three men looked at the dead body and panicked. "Please, boss, we---"


    Three more gunshots were heard. Kris threw the gun back to Keso and walked out of the room.


    "Which team were they from?" Kris asked.


    "Area 4."


    "Tsk... she can''t break the men up here so she goes for the newest ones. A faulty on my part." Kris stopped his footsteps. "Have Lay go down to Area 4 and 5. I want a full inspection down there. And punish everyone''s salary from Area 4."


    "Yes."


    "And I also want you to inspect everything from Alpha and Beta Team. I don''t want this to be repeated again."


    Keso nodded. "And what about the bodies?"


    "Have Lay take them with him. Everyone should know that just because I have a woman beside me now, it doesn''t mean I am still not Kris Li."


    "And what about Becca?"


    "I feel like she is already digging her own grave. I don''t need to get my hand dirty for a woman like her." Kris lifted the left corner of his lips.

 Chapter 259 - Changes to the mission

    Kris continued walking again until he got to the meeting room. As he entered, a group of men instantly stood up from their chairs and greeted him.


    "Boss!"


    "Sit down." Kris sat down on his own chair. "I know that pulling everyone out on a quick notice count be dangerous but there has been a change to the mission."


    The men looked at each other then back at their boss.


    "Becca is now terminated. She will no longer be on the team or a resource. She does not know that yet, so you all can play as if she is still part of the mission. It would alert the target if we get rid of her too soon."


    "Boss, we have worked within the Huang organization for a while now but only Becca had ever come closest with the Huang leaders." One of the men pointed out.


    "Don''t worry about that, I have a way to get one of you on the inside. After all, we have a more capable woman on our side now."


    A more capable woman? They did not hear about any new female coworkers joining them in Area 2.


    Kris continued to speak with the men about the future plans and changes to the mission. He did not want to keep them there too long too. Their disappearance would make them be suspicious.


    Everyone began to leave but one man stayed behind.


    "Are you sure you want to go through with it? I would not want to put you or your family in danger?" Kris asked the man.


    "It is alright, boss. This is the only way and the quickest way. Once the mission ends, I will get to be with my daughter. We would not be here anyways if it was not meant for you." The man spoke and thanked Kris some more before heading out too.


    Kris looked at his watch. He can drive back home and spend the rest of the day with Lena. He had told himself not to overwork, but he felt like he had been working too much and not spending enough time with Lena or his mom.


    He drove back to the penthouse, hoping to find Lena when he got home. Instead, he arrived at an empty home.


    "Lena?" He called out. His voice echoes through the walls. Had his home always been this.... empty?


    Kris was about to take out his phone to call Lena, but he saw something sitting on the dining table. He turned on the light and walked over. He saw a note on the table with a gift.


    "Decided to go back home to my parents tonight.


    Will see you tomorrow for dinner. Also got you a gift.


    I know we are both forgetful. A watch for you, and a necklace for me.


    - Lena"


    Kris picked up the box from the dining table and opened it. It was a watch, but a custom made one. It had a latch that opens a small area where Kris assume that he can put his promise ring inside.


    He smiled. He wore his watch more than his ring, and Lena wore necklaces more than rings. He took his ring off, slid it in the opening and put the watch on.


    He decided to call Lena anyways.


    "Hey..."


    "I got your note. And the watch is perfect." Kris spoke.


    "Glad you like it. My parents are acting like it''s not a big deal tomorrow, but I can feel them ready to ripe you down to pieces."


    "You really think so? I feel like your dad is afraid of me."


    "Please... that is when you were CEO Li... not when you will be son-in-law."


    "They can ripe me ripe me to pieces, as long as I get you as payment."


    "I miss you...." Lena softly replied.


    "Then you should have stayed home..."


    "I would never heal then... I am trying to recover, doctor''s orders."


    "Heh..." Kris smiled.


    "I have a confession." Lena raised her voice.


    "What did you do this time? Who did you piss off? How much money do you need? Do I need to cover up the crime scene?"


    Lena giggled over the phone. Kris''s hearts raced and he smiled, hearing her sweet laugh.


    "I went to see your grandparents this morning."


    Kris smile faded. "Lena, I don''t want you ---"


    "Near them." Lena finished his sentence for him. "I know. That''s why I visited them. If they really want the best for you, then they should stay away from you."


    Kris did not reply back to Lena.


    "I know that you are doing your own things to protect me. So this is me, doing my own things to protect you. We are in this together now, and forever. So... whether you like it or not, I am part of your life and I will make sure you are happy."


    "I...I really love you, you know that?"


    "Yes I do."


    "I am going to go take a shower then... dream about me." Kris spoke.


    "Ok. See you." Lena sent him a kiss over the phone and hung up.


    She tossed the phone on the side of her bed. She put her hand up to her face and looked the ring on her finger. That''s right, she is his, and he is hers... whatever makes him unhappy, she will make them go away.


    ========


    This morning, after breakfast, Lena head straight to the Old Li Mansion. She did not expect them to openly accept her but she had no trouble entering the mansion. It was like they were the perfect pair of grandparents.


    "Lena... Come in... come in." Old Madam Li came out to greet Lena.


    Lena did not say anything and entered the house with the old lady. Elder Li was already sitting in the living room, drinking a morning tea.


    "Come, sit. I did not know you were coming to see us today. Will Kris stop by too?" Old Madam Li asked.


    "No. I just came to say something." Lena walked closer to Elder Li. "I don''t mean to be rude, but can you both... just stop interfering with Kris'' life?"


    Elder Li stopped drinking his tea and looked up at the young lady.


    "I can tell that you still care about him, but your eyes are still so greedy. You think that you can''t just let someone like your grandson walk out so freely... but you can. You already lose your own son, don''t lose your grandson too."


    "You---"


    "You know exactly what I am talking about." Lena did not falter. "You know... he still has nightmares about whatever stuff you did to him? He doesn''t talk about it much and I don''t ask about it, it''s his choice. I know he has less of them when I am with him.. but the thought of the man who did all these things to him is his own grandfather... I don''t know how a kid can ever get that pain out of him. A father who was never there and a grandfather who tortured him... give him a break."


    "You have done enough." Lena continued. "And if you care so much about that stupid curse of yours... don''t. I am pretty sure you already got the good news from Lady Wu. So let me warn you, you can either leave Kris.. or I will... and you can say goodbye to that next generation of the Li family that you have dreamed of so much. All the success and power that you have worked so damn hard to protect, gone, just because you cannot let your grandson be happy."


    Lena took a deep breath and turned around to leave.


    "You think... you can really leave him?"


    Lena stopped and looked back at the old man, knowing that he fears losing everything too. "It takes two to be in a happy relationship.... but only one to stop it. So yes, I am sure that I can leave him. What kind of monster do you think he''ll become when he finds out the reason I left was because of you?"


    Lena turned around again and left the old couple. She held her hand in a fist and walked back to her car. She closed her eyes of a second and took in another deep breath. Lena started her car and left, not realizing the ninja car following her.


    As Lena left, Elder Li started to have a hard time breathing. He closed his eyes and held his chest, slowing breathing in and out.


    "Old woman, do you think... I am so bad?" Elder looked around the empty house.


    "Husband.... I am also a horrible grandmother. I turned a blind eye for all the things you did to the little one."


    "What was it that Lady Wu exactly said?"


    "Only she can bring the Li family redemption."


    Elder Li sighed... "Ace."


    Ace popped from the hallway and entered the room. He did not think that he would see his sister-in-law so soon. She''s as perfect as he can imagine her to be. "Yes, grandfather."

 Chapter 260 - Dinner and small talks.

    Ace walked over and sat down on the seat across from Old Madam Li and next to Elder Li.


    "Have you got into contact with Chen Xu?" Elder Li asked.


    "I have."


    "Set up a meeting with him. I will go personally go see him." Elder Li coughed.


    Ace nodded.


    "Husband... what about the dinner tomorrow?" Old Madam Li spoke.


    "Didn''t you hear what she said? If we push closer, she''ll leave him. I won''t be alive to see what he will do next... and it''s not yet time for me to leave." He coughed.


    He knew that he was getting old... and karma was knocking his doors... but he needed to do some things before he leaves.


    Lena was right... whatever good part is left of him still have a concern about Kris. His greediness got the best of him.


    Ace stood up and left the two old couple alone. He walked out to the back of the mansion and looked into the vast emptiness. He was empty...


    "Today is Saturday... so Lena must have met her already." A small smile form on Ace. "Becca... I wonder how she has been?" He placed a hand on his heart and then folded it into a fist, closing his eyes.


    ====


    The next morning, Lena woke up every early. Shen Milli had Lena running around the house, cleaning and preparing the house to be perfect for tonight.


    It was just dinner... not an engagement meeting. Lena did not know why it was such a hype... Lena smiled, watching her mom be the great mother she was. Lena wondered if she will be like her mom when she has her own kids.


    Lena looked at her ring and smiled.


    When it was close to dinner time, Lena head to her room to get change. Her parents were already set up and ready to greet the guests.


    After a few minutes, Lena could hear the noises of car doors opening and the loud voice of her mothers. Lena took her time to put on her dress and made sure she was looking just right for today. Nothing too fancy, but not too plain either.


    There was a light knock on Lena''s door.


    "Just a minute. I''ll be done soon." Lena shouted.


    She finishes putting on her earrings and went to open the door. Right as she opened the door, a soft warmth covered her lips as a handheld her back.


    "Kris!" Lena spoke after he let her go.


    "I miss you."


    "What if someone sees us?"


    "So? They would have pretended to not see it anyway."


    "Seriously, you. What are you doing here?"


    "I came to get you, of course. Don''t you know it''s rude to keep your guests waiting?" Kris replied.


    Kris grabbed Lena''s hand and they both walked down the stairs together. But before they reached the dining room, Kris stopped and turned to Lena.


    "Can I get another kiss? I won''t be able to until tomorrow." Kris gave Lena the puppy eyes.


    Lena rolled her eyes. She pulled her face up to his and gave him a kiss on the lips before walking into the dining room first.


    "Lena... why are you arriving so late." Shen Milli scolded her but then smiled.


    "Sorry." Lena sat down next to her mother.


    Kris sat down next to his. They were sitting across from Lena and her mother. Shen Mao sat at the head of the table.


    "I am so glad that you both can make it today. Is... Chairman Li and his wife busy today?" Shen Mao spoke.


    "They are." Lena was the first one to reply. "I personally went back and invited them, but something important came up and they could not make it today. I forgot to tell you about it."


    "Ah.. I see. Well, maybe next time. Regardless, let''s eat." Shen Mao clapped his hands and the workers began setting the table with food.


    As the food was set on the table, Madam Li was quite amazed at all the food.


    "My mother personally made all the food here today." Lena explained.


    "You didn''t cook? I was hoping to eat something of yours today." Kris smiled.


    "No. My mother said that I would be cooking a lot for you so today, she wanted you to eat something of hers."


    "You..." Shen Milli was shy from all the praises.


    "Aiya... Let''s eat. Everyone must be hungry." Shen Mao dived in first and then everyone began to eat too.


    As they ate, they had small chats. Madam Li and Kris commented on how amazing Shen Milli''s cooking was. Shen Milli was telling bad stories on Lena''s horrible habits of cooking.


    Kris laughed from the stories. "If it was not for Lena, I would not have learned how to cook myself." He looked at Lena and smiled.


    "You''re so good to Lena... I wish my husband would learn to cook a few things here and there for me." Shen Milli pointed out.


    Shen Mao cleared his throat. His wife does not need to expose his horrible skills too! He looked at Kris instead.


    "So Kris... would you be a politician too like your father?"


    "My father would have been a great politician if he did not pass so soon. Sadly, I did not have his skill and aspiration for politics like him, I''ll be sticking to just business."


    "You took over the entire Li family business, your father would be very proud of you."


    Kris smiled. "After all, I don''t want to work too much. I want to be there for my family..." His eyes softened as he looked at Lena. "I didn''t have a lot of time with my father, I don''t wish to miss those changes with mine."


    "Ahaha... very good. I took a long break from work when my sweet Lena was born." Shen Mao chuckled and nodded approvingly of how Kris think.


    "Kris, have you been here before?" Shen Milli suddenly asked.


    Lena coughed and then used a napkin to pat her mouth. What was her mother intending to ask?!


    "Yes, I have." Kris asked and Shen Milli eyes lit up. She did not expect the man to be so... honest. So it was him the other time she suspected, right?


    "Hmm.... If I have to say, it would be around the time I terminated work with the Shen Wine Industry." Kris clarified. "I visited Lena then."


    "You are right... such a thing did happen. Ahahaha.." Shen Mao laughed. "My daughter must have caused you much trouble then."


    "I can''t deny that... Lena was... very hard to ignore then. Quite a catch I would say."


    "A catch?! I made the first move!" Lena spouted.


    Kris laughed and dished a portion of food onto Lena''s plate. "Are you sure you want to go into details?"


    Lena blushed and went back to eating her food. Shen Milli looked at her daughter and felt happy.


    "You both get along well..." She said. "I am happy to see Lena smiling more."


    "I think I have smiled more since I have met her." Kris spoke.

 Chapter 261 - Becca Wang

    After dinner, everyone chatted for a while before it was time for Kris and Madam Li to leave.


    Lena did not go back to her apartment that night and slept at her parents'' house. Lena was happy that her parents did not grill Kris too much. Regardless, nothing was a pressure for a man like Kris.


    For the next few days, Kris dropped Lena off at work and picked her up.


    It was Thursday and the Shen Annual party was on Saturday. Tomorrow, all the workers had a paid break. Lena had plans to leave early today at work so she can get her dress for the event.


    "Miss. Shen, there is a lady who requested to come to see you, but she has no appointment." Diane knocked on her door.


    "Did you get her name?"


    "Yes. Becca Wang?"


    Becca? Lena wondered what the woman was doing here... but she knew that Becca can only be bad news. "Tell her I am busy. See can get an appointment if she wants to see me."


    Diane nodded and went back out.


    Lena continued to work until it was lunchtime. She put her work away and made sure to text Kris to remember to eat too. She grabbed her bag and head out for lunch. James followed her as she heads out.


    As she opened exited out of the main doors, Lena spot Becca. The woman must have been waiting for her since this morning.


    "Miss. Shen!" Becca rushed up to Lena. "Or do you want me to call you Lady Boss?"


    James sixth senses flared up. This unknown woman was not a typical woman. She has dangerous all over her.


    "You can call me Lena." Lena smiled. "Well, as long as my boyfriend isn''t here."


    "Ahaha..." Becca awkwardly smiled. She knew that Lena was just rubbing in the term boyfriend at her. "Well, I was just wondering if we can have a chat? It''s your lunch, right? I can treat."


    "Well, it would be rude if I did not take that offer. After all, you must have waited all morning."


    "I passed a place when I came here, it''s nearby. Would that work?" Becca asked.


    "That''s fine." Lena turned around and looked at James. "You can go take your lunch yourself."


    "Yes." James was reluctant to let Lena go... but he knew Lena was saying that. He would still stay close to Lena.


    Lena walked with Becca until they arrived at a small diner. It was not very busy so Lena and Becca were able to get a quick seat. They ordered their food and just waiting for them to be served.


    "You wanted to talk to me about something?" Lena started the conversation.


    "Yes... well, I don''t know if Kris had told you yet or not?"


    "He has not told me anything."


    "Oh.. well, I am staying at the Li Mansion with Madam Li. I just didn''t want you to misunderstand anything because I am staying there."


    Lena smiled. "I am glad you found somewhere to stay. I would not misunderstand anything. After all, it''s not like Kris goes there anymore anyways..."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Ah... you must have not heard. Kris is ban from going home until Madam Li gets grandchildren."


    "...."


    "Ahaha... don''t think about it too much. It''s just the old people saying stuff. When Kris gives me a bigger ring, then we''ll consider kids." Lena touched the small ring on her finger.


    "Mhnnn" Becca cleared her throat. "Honestly... I don''t know how you attracted Kris."


    Just as Becca said that the server brought their food over and placed them on the table. Lena put the napkin on her lap.


    "Why...?" Lena cut her meat. "You think that just because you grew up with him... that he suddenly is yours?"


    "That''s not what I mean. Do you seriously are worthy to be with him? You still have your bodyguard trailing you around."


    Lena put down her eating utensils. "You know what is funny? You are probably the 100th person to ask me if I am deserving to be next to Kris... and honestly, you''re all looking at this the wrong way. The question should be... is HE deserving to be next to me."


    "And you know what else...? If it''s not me, then who is worthy enough? You?" Lena chuckled. "Please, you wouldn''t even last a second of being his woman."


    "You think you''re so good... but you''re just weak. I have more skills needed to be with Kris."


    "Weak? What skill do you have that I don''t? I mean... I can list a whole encyclopedia of things that I can do and you can''t."


    Becca thought about it.. and then she smiled. "The art of seduction."


    "Hmm?" Lena played dumb.


    "You see that man that has been staring at us since we entered? Without even talking to him... I can make him pay for our meal."


    Becca smiled and looked at the young man. He winked at her and she smiled seductively at him. She turned back to continue eating but every once and a while, glance back at him.


    After they were done eating, the waitress came to clean the table.


    "The young man over there already paid for your bill. He also asked me to pass a note to you." The waitress handed the receipt and note to Becca and then left.


    Becca opened the note and then crumbled it up. She was just playing with him. "See, I got the bill covered."


    Lena giggled. Becca looked at her... confused.


    "The art of seduction?" Lena let out a soft giggle again. "We call that, a one-night stand. Has a man ever lasted more than one night or date with you? Seems like you don''t know about men much... they don''t look at how many men you slept with... but how long you lasted with your last one. Too many men... you''re considered a woman who can''t keep a man nor her hole close."


    "You!!"


    Lena smiled at her. "Watch and learn... I will show you how it''s done."


    Lena gently got up. She walked over to a man who was sitting on the counter instead of a table. She tapped him on the shoulder. As he turned to look at her, Lena swiped his wallet.


    "Yes?" He looked at Lena.


    "Sorry. I think this is your wallet?" Lena smiled sweetly at him and handed him his wallet.


    "Oh! I didn''t even know I dropped it." He laughed and scratched his head. "Thanks for bringing it back to me."


    "I found it just a while ago. I looked to see if there was an ID so I can hand it to the workers. But I noticed that it was you... it''s hard to forget a handsome face."


    The young man smiled and blushed slightly. "You''re pretty too."


    "Thanks... well, I have to go now. My friend is still waiting for me." Lena pointed to Becca and turned around.


    "Ah, wait." The young man got out of his chair and held Lena''s hand back. "Can I... you know.. maybe buy you lunch or dinner next time?"


    "Hmm?"


    The young man shyly released Lena''s hand. "What am I saying, I didn''t even introduce my self yet. Ian." He extended his hand for Lena.


    "Lena." Lena shooked his hand.


    "But anyway... Like I said, maybe lunch or dinner? Just to say thanks for picking up my wallet and returning it to me?"


    Lena gave him an innocent smile. "Sure."


    "Great! Here''s my phone number."


    They both exchange numbers and then Lena left. Becca already left the table and stood out the door, watching Lena.


    Lena did not want to play the poor young man... but she needed to show Becca that she was not any level below her.


    When she walked out, Lena smirked at Becca.


    "If you want to even compete with me... start thinking about being with a man... not just getting in bed with them."


    Lena swung her hair at Becca and left. Lena did not get to eat much... but she was glad that she was able to put Becca in her place.


    Lena walked back to the company but she did not get inside. She called Kris and he immediately picked up.


    "Did you have lunch yet?" Lena asked him.


    "Yes."


    "You''re not lying, right? If I look at the security cameras, I would see that you ate."


    "Yes."


    "I actually called you because I just gave my phone number to a hot young man."


    "What?!!!"

 Chapter 262 - Let me be jealous.

    Lena walked over to James car, where he was already there, waiting for her. Lena opened the back seat door and sat in while.


    "Where are you going?" Kris asked when he heard the door closed.


    "To come to see you... I can come to see you right?"


    "I am a very busy person when I at work."


    "But, I ditched the hot young man for you."


    "But?? But, you still gave your phone to him!"


    "Sometimes, I like when you''re jealous too... so I am not the only one."


    "Jealous?"


    "I''ll talk to you about it when I come to see you." Lena quickly replied and hung up the call.


    Without even talking, James already knew that Lena was on the phone with Kris. He quickly started the car and drove to the Li Company. He stopped at the front of the building.


    "You didn''t have your lunch right?" Lena smiled at James. "I''ll be here for a while, so go and have your lunch. I''ll text you later when I am leaving."


    Lena got out of the car and walked into the building herself. People were just coming back from their lunch break so the ground floor was busy. many of the workers knew who Lena was... especially after some of the photos from the movie premiere showed them at the event together.


    Lena could have used the private elevator, but instead, she walked into the normal ones. Since being with Kris, she had been using the speed elevator most of the time. She entered the crowded elevator with everyone.


    No one dared to speak inside the elevator, and they all crowded extra close to each other, making sure to give Lena all the space she can get.


    Because she was going to the top floor, mostly everyone left by then. When she reached the top floor, Collin glanced up at Lena and nodded at her. She immediately went straight inside Kris'' office.


    Kris glanced up from his work to look at Lena. "You should knock before you come in."


    "I''ll knock you dead and then you won''t be able to get in at all."


    "...."


    Lena walked over to Kris. She dropped her bag right on top of his work and pushed his chair back from his desk. Before Kris could ask what was wrong with her, she straddled on his legs and gave him a sweet kiss.


    "Is something ---" Again, Kris got cut of by Lena, giving him another kiss.


    This time, it was longer and sweeter... as if Lena did not want to let him go at all.


    "Sorry...." Lena rested her head on his shoulder, resting her body on his. "I know you''re busy... but I am being selfish to come and see you whenever."


    "You know.... I am never busy when it comes to you. I was just saying that before, but you can come to see me anytime you want. And you don''t have to know." Kris clarified.


    However, Lena did not reply back. She just closed her eyes and was still straddled on him.


    "So... Are you going to tell me about that hot young man you meet today?"


    "The young man was just part of a competition between me and Becca. She came and see me today." Lena lifted her head from his shoulder and looked into Kris'' eyes.


    Kris placed a hand on Lena''s waist to make sure she would not fall off the chair. "To tell you that she is staying with my mom at the mansion?"


    Lena nodded. "And... to say that she is a better woman for you."


    "Better?" Kris laughed. "She''s a tough woman, but I don''t need a tough woman... I need a woman who I can love and be happy with. And there is only one, so you don''t have to be jealous."


    "Well.... can you just let me be jealous?!" Lena fumed. "Just because you don''t like them back doesn''t mean it doesn''t irritate me. Every time I see her, I want to beat that little snarky face of hers."


    "Actually.... I can''t let you do that, just yet anyway. I wanted to tell you after the Shen Annual Party but since the circumstance has changed, I can tell you now. I need a favor from you."


    "A favor?"


    Kris smiled at her and then went close to her ear. He whispered to her ear, telling her what he is requesting from her. Lena carefully listened to him. After he was done, he kissed Lena on the cheek.


    "So how about it? This is your only free chance to get me jealous without me getting mad."


    "You should ask me to do more favors more you..." Lena bit her lips. "But this one, surely I can help you with that."


    "Are you seducing me?"


    "Ah, no way. I was just showing you what I learned today from Becca and her beautiful art of seduction. Or how I like to call it... how to get a one night stand."


    "One night?? Oh, baby... we don''t even need to wait for night time." Kris kissed Lena on her neck and grabbed her butt.


    "Kris! We''re at your workplace!"


    "You should have thought about that before using the art of seduction on me."


    Lena slapped his hand and struggled to get out from him. "I have to still go pick up my dress..."


    "A dress? It''s not going to be one that is difficult to remove right?" Kris widened his eyes and teased Lena.


    Lena hopped off his legs and gave him a pick on his cheek. "I don''t know... guess you''ll find out right?" She walked to the other end of the desk and grabbed her bag. "Oh... and by the way, you''re paying for it." Lena waved his wallet from her hand.


    "When did you pick that up?"


    "Just recently." Lena opened his wallet and furrowed her brows. "How many credit card does a man need?"


    "Can never have enough. You can choose whichever one or all if you want."


    Lena skimmed through the pile and picked one. Who carries this much in their wallet anyways...? His wallet was heavier than her entire purse! She needs to go some wallet redecoration for him.


    "I''ll see you for dinner then." Lena spoke.


    "Lena, thank you for being patient."


    "I am not that patient... but I am not so stupid too. I already knew you had something planned when I saw Becca today in one piece and still walking. So this time, I will be a good girl because you let me into the action."


    Kris watched as Lena left and the door closed behind her. He grabbed his wallet and then threw it in the drawer with the rest of his useless wallets. After his wallet gets too heavy... he just threw them in a pile and get a new wallet and new cards.


    He picked up his phone and called for Collin.


    "Yes, Boss?"


    "Call my banks. Make sure Lena can have access to the main accounts."


    "Okay... You don''t want her added to the other ones?"


    "Not yet. I don''t want to put a target on her in any case someone wants to steal from me."


    "Alright, I''ll get that done right now." Collin hung up.


    Kris hung up the phone too. He touched the watch on his right hand and looked at the plain black ring that he wore on his finger. He gave it a small kiss and smiled. He cannot wait for dinner.

 Chapter 263 - Men who lie

    When Lena got outside, James was already waiting for her. She got inside the car and headed toward her next destination. Lena had her dress designed by someone Hazel suggested. Lena wanted to look her best because it was a big event for her family.


    Lena arrived a bit earlier than the scheduled time, but the designer did not waste any second to let Lena wait. He immediately came out when he heard she was here.


    "Lena darling." Michael kissed Lena''s hand. He was a foreigner who had made it big in Asia. "You are as stunning as always. My dress will look perfect on you. Come, come. Try it out and I''ll see if there are any more adjustments needed."


    James stayed out in the waiting area while Lena went into a private VIP room. Michael grabbed the dress out and held it high.


    "Magnificent isn''t it!" He admired his own masterpiece. "My Hazel dear can never wear such piece because her legs are not as long as yours. If you did not know you, I would think you were made for the walkway."


    Lena smiled and took the dress from him. She held it on her body and looked at her reflection. The dress was very beautiful. The design was simple yet each stitch made was done perfectly.


    "What are you waiting for? Try it on. I''ll let you change."


    Michael smiled at Lena and then left her alone so she can change in private.


    Lena made sure the door was locked before walking back to the large three-panel wall mirror. She took off her clothes and put the dress on.


    She slipped on the dress, clasped in the button at the back of her neck. Lena turned her head a bit sideways, as she zipped up the back of her dress herself. She was very flexible, so it was fairly easy to do it herself.


    When she looked back at the mirror to check herself out, she saw something else in the reflection.


    "Ah!" It was so unexpected that she screeched and step back from the scare. Lena tripped on the fluffy rug and stumbled down.


    The person from the reflection quickly rushed over to Lena and grabbed her hand, catching her fall.


    "I didn''t mean to scare you..." He helped Lena up.


    "You!" Lena glared at him. "What are you doing here?"


    "I heard you were here, so I thought I could come and say hi."


    "Not that..." Lena put a hand on her heart... the man did really give her a fright. "How did you get in?"


    "In here? The door wasn''t locked."


    "I don''t like men who lie, Mr. Huang."


    "I am serious! The door wasn''t locked!" Tyler defended himself.


    "Well, have you ever heard of knocking? This is a fitting room, what if you came any sooner and saw me undressed?!" Lena scolded him.


    Tyler swallowed, and Lena''s eye widened. She clearly saw that he swallowed too. She pointed a finger at him.


    "YOU! When did you come in?!" Lena held up her hand, ready to give the man a punch.


    Tyler quickly stepped back and crossed his hands up, in defensive mode. "I didn''t see anything... well, I got a view from the back. I will have to admit, you have a good fashion in undergar--"


    "You A**hole!" Lena took a step forward and lunge a punch straight at his face.


    "AHHH!" Tyler screamed like a girl but he immediately blocked it. He grabbed Lena''s hand, twisted it behind and bear-hugged Lena tightly from behind, locking her arms down.


    "Heh.... did someone ever tell you that you are very cute when you are angry?"


    "Cute? I''ll show you cute!" Lena tried to step on his shoe, but she was wearing nothing so her barefoot did nothing to him. Instead, she bent her head and bit his hand.


    Lena was going to give him another smack, but the door opened.


    "Lena dear!!!" Michael walked in. "Oh... Tyler is here too?"


    "Michael!" Lena was infuriated. "He is not welcome here. Is this how you treat your customers, allowing them no privacy?!"


    "I..." Micahel was confused about the situation.


    "Sorry Michael. It was my fault, I accidentally walked into Miss. Shen''s room."


    "Lena dear... It''s just a misunderstanding. I am sure Mr. Huang did not mean to come in. All of the room look the same... I''ll make sure to better decorate them differently."


    Tyler smiled at Lena. He knew that Lena would not cause trouble over such a small thing. Lena glared at him and then relaxed.


    "Fine... I am sure Mr. Huang will not do it again. Or surely you know that the business world is a sticky place, you might just go bankrupt the next day."


    Michael gulped. Not only is Lena from the Shen family, who had raised in tremendous wealth this year, but she is also best friend with Hazel and currently with Kris Li. Michael would not want to be on her bad side at all!


    "Aiya... I wouldn''t dare." Michael chuckled and kicked Tyler out of the room. Tyler made sure to give Lena a wink before the door closed on him.


    "Don''t be mad... how about I give you a good discount for all the future services you get here, hmmm?"


    "It''s fine.... if you give me such a discount, I might really take you up on that and work you to death."


    "Ahaha... you are truly a woman as mighty as CEO Li."


    "Hmmm?"


    "I have so many customers, especially the female ones. They were all laughing at you, taking bets on how long you would last with the young master Li... but a good person can see that the man is all over you, not the other way around."


    "He is..." Lena confirmed.


    "And besides, after the photos with the both of you at the movie premiere, I am sure none of them are laughing now." Michael gossiped some more. "I am glad the young man finally got someone he likes.... the years that he had come to my shop... whooffff.... you wouldn''t even get a smile or thank you from him."


    "Now that you''re with him, maybe try making the man wear some more bright colors so he does not look so angry all the time."


    "Should I make him wear lots of pink like me?"


    "Maybe that should be your wedding color. CEO Li is getting his suit tailored at a friend of mine... we made sure to make your outfit the best together. Now, let me get a good look at you."


    Michael made sure the dress git Lena perfectly. After they were done, Lena went out to pay for the dress. She was hoping to not see Tyler again, and luckily she didn''t.


    When the assistant told Lena the total, she was a bit stunned. It must because she does not have custom dresses made for her often. She opened her purse and spotted the credit card she stole from Kris, but she went and grabbed for hers instead.


    Lena was just joking around with Kris when she said he was paying for her stuff. There are some things she can wave her boyfriend power around, but others, she''ll keep doing it with her own will.


    Lena paid for the dress. It will be sent to the place she will be getting her hair and makeup done on Saturday.


    Lena remembered that Kris could do for a new wallet. She went shopping around some more to buy a few other items before having James send her home.

 Chapter 264 - Tasted it like one million times

    Lena went to her apartment first. She dropped off her items before going up to Kris'' place. When the elevator door opened, she realized that Kris was already home.


    "Lena, is that you?" Kris shouted from the kitchen.


    "Mhm..." Lena replied and walked to the kitchen.


    As she entered the kitchen, she spotted Kris still in his work clothes but one of her aprons'' around him.


    "Hey..." He walked over and give her a quick peck on the cheek before going back to cooking. "I am almost done with dinner, you can go rest."


    Kris stirred the pot and gave it a quick taste. Lena walked up behind him and gave him a hug.


    "Wifey.... why are you so cute today?" Lena joked.


    "Well, husband... you will please me in bed later, right?"


    Lena let go of him and laughed as she walked away to sit on the dining table. "Are you doing to wear that apron to bed? I might consider it..."


    Kris turned the heat down on the stove and looked at Lena. "What is your mind thinking about now?"


    "Hmmm.... A sexy naked man but an apron on my bed."


    "Is that a visualization... or a request?" Kris asked.


    "Can it be both? I am stingy when it comes to you."


    "Husband... don''t tempt your wife... you might not be able to walk the next day."


    "I don''t work anyways." Lena shrugged.


    "Tsk..." Kris smiled and went back to focus on his food. He did not want his hard work to go to waste, thinking about Lena''s request.


    Lena continued to sit at the table and stared at her man. He was learning new things just to please her... that''s when you know he is a keeper.


    After a while, Kris was done the cooking and set the food on the table for both Lena and him. He took off his apron and sat on the table across from Lena.


    Lena looked at the food and then at Kris.


    "Don''t worry. I made sure it''s good."


    "Yes, I am pretty sure you did. You tasted it like one million times."


    "I did?" Kris laughed.


    "If you had taken a few more bites, you would not need to eat dinner."


    "Oh? Don''t you worry... I have a big appetite. Can''t skip dinner or dessert."


    Lena smiled at him and tasted his food. She nodded her head and continued to eat. After they were done with dinner, Kris and Lena both cleaned up together. Kris cleaned the table while Lena did the dishes.


    "So... Your entire family would be at the party."


    "Why? You nervous all of a sudden? They had always been there."


    "I never paid much attention," Kris admitted.


    Lena went back to washing the rest of the dishes. Kris went next to her, and put an elbow on the counter.


    "I was thinking... about getting a new place."


    "You''re moving?"


    "I was thinking about something better for us."


    Lena washed the last dish and put it in the drying rack. "Are you asking me to move in with you, dear?"


    "Not officially. I don''t think your family would like you living with me until I put a ring on you." Kris grabbed Lena''s hand with her small ring and kissed it.


    "Oh dear... I know my grandpa would be hitting you with his cane... but grandma will not wait to lock you in a room with me." Lena teased in, putting her arm around his neck.


    "I did yell at your old man saying that we''ll set our own wedding date."


    "You did..." Lena pulled the man closer to her and kissed him on the lips.


    "I don''t like camping you up here. If something were to happen to go wrong, there aren''t many ways for you to escape." Kris kissed Lena on the forehead. "Why don''t you go take a shower first?"


    "You''re not going to have dessert?" Lena asked.


    "Trust me... I would love dessert. But, we have to make sure you''re all good first." Kris slapped Lena butt for her to go.


    Lena head to shower first, and when she came back out, Kris was in his office talking on the phone. She did not want to interrupt him, so she went to lay down on the bed to do some light reading.


    After a long time, Kris opened the bedroom door to see Lena still awake. He took a glance at her before quickly hoping to take a shower and coming back out.


    "Is everything okay?" Lena asked.


    "It was from Gary."


    Lena put her book down and looked up at him. "I swear... if you were not Lena-sexual, I would think my boyfriend is hitting up one of my best friends. Gary has been talking to you more than me. I think Gary is more dangerous than Becca."


    "Is that so?" Kris smiled and crawled to bed with Lena. He was no wearing a shirt. He gave Lena a kiss before turning off the lights.


    "It''s his dad." Kris explained. He pulled Lena closer to him and pull the blanket over them.


    "His dad is the reason why he''s hanging out more with you?"


    "I promised him... that I won''t tell you about his dad." Kris clarified. "But I can tell you... that his dad is going to be no threat to you, or him."


    "He has no one..." Lena solemnly spoke. "He has been running away from his family his whole life. He''ll tell me about his dad when he wants to. You just be a good bro for him, ''kay?"


    "Yeah..." Kris kissed Lena on the forehead one last time before they both fell asleep.


    Gary is dead. His identity died a while back when they were hiding him from Madam Yang. Gary had been planning his awakening, new identity and career. However, there have been a few new problems that have been blocking him.


    His father had been putting trouble and blockage on Gary. He wants Gary to come to him instead. Kris had finally tracked down the old man, and Gary was discussing his plans with Kris.

 Chapter 265 - The triplets

    The next morning, Kris got up early. He was very quiet, making sure to not wake up Lena. He knew that Lena likes to sleep in when she has no work or anything big plan for the morning.


    "Get your beauty sleep. I''ll see you tomorrow." He kissed Lena before he left.


    "Don''t get r*pe." Lena yelled at him as he got off the bed.


    "Woah... what kind of good morning blessing is that?" Kris laughed.


    "You''ll be going back to the mansion... I was just giving you a good warning, baby." Lena sat up on the bed. "There are lots of hungry women."


    "And yes, lots of hungry women and MEN... so let''s keep our pants on and locked." Kris smiled at her before leaving.


    After Kris left, Lena stayed lazy for a few more hours before waking up. Her grandparents would be arriving here by the afternoon so Lena had to go back home. Her cousins would also be at the house so she will be coming with a big family.


    Lena got dressed and packed some of her items that she got for her family. She drove back home. Lena thought that they would arrive later... but she knew they were already home when the house was packed with park cars outside.


    Before she could even park the car, she saw the kids running outside to come to greet her.


    "MOMMY LENA!!!"


    "Mommy!!"


    "Mom!"


    ''Oh god...'' Lena shook her head as she got out of the car. The triplets immediately jumped on Lena, hugging her leg, and grabbing her hand. "I''ve told you multiple times... I am not your mother."


    "We like you more than mom!" They all spoke in sync.


    Lena could see her Aunt Ma coming out of the mansion.


    "I swear you''re going to murder me someday for stealing your kids away from you." Lena walked to greet her as the boys trailed behind her.


    "They''re a pain. If you want then, they are free." Aunt Ma joked. "C''mon, help Lena carry her items inside and go back to play with your grandmother."


    The boys all fought over who was going to carry Lena''s bag inside until Lena divided up the items for each of them. They all ran inside as both she and Aunt Ma laughed.


    "You sure you want a big family?" She asked Lena.


    "Yes, I am sure. They''re a pain, but I can tell you and Uncle are very happy."


    "I don''t see your man with you."


    "Well, you all will see him tomorrow."


    "Everyone here?" Lena asked.


    "Well, as soon as we landed, Kevin took a taxi and went off somewhere. It''s like he can''t even wait to come and live here for college."


    "Maybe he has a girlfriend here?" They both walked inside as the chatted some more.


    "I hope not."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll talk to him about it." Lena assured her Aunt.


    Kevin was never much of a trouble maker. There must be a reason he had been rebellious lately. Lena had always been rebellious when she was young... so she did not know if Keven was just going through a phase.


    "MaMo!" Lena hugged her uncles. She had always called them that so she kept the calling them still. "Where''s grandma and grandpa?"


    "They''re probably scolding your dad about why there is not wedding date set up yet for you."


    "What? I swear there is not a single day where I can go without someone old telling me about marriage."


    "Old?! Who''s calling me old." Grandpa Shen grunted roll his wheelchair. "I am Old, that''s why you should get married."


    "Wait? Mommy Lena is getting married?"


    "NO!!" Jonah started to cry.


    The triplets, Jonah, John, Joel, had started calling Lena mommy since that one summer she babysat them. They just became so attached to her that they continued to call her that.


    "I am not getting married..." Lena consoled the little kid. "Not soon anyway."


    "NO...." Jonah continued to cry and the other two started crying too.


    "Kids... why are you crying? You didn''t cry when I was engaged."


    "That''s because we didn''t like Candy Andy." John replied.


    "Yeah, he was not fun." Joel added.


    Uncle Ma coughed. He totally did not give his children the idea of the nickname.


    "Okay, can you all just stop crying? I will go tattle to Kevin and he will not be nice like me." Lena threatened.


    The triplets were very hard to handle, but only their brother Kevin can really make them obedient. Once Lena said that they immediately stopped crying and wiped their fake tears.


    "Will you stop loving us when you have your own kid?" Jonah asked.


    Lena lifted up her hand in a motion like she was dumbstruck. Everyone else in the room just laughed instead.


    "I think it''s your nap time, isn''t it?" Lena looked at Aunt Ma to confirm and she nodded.


    "NOOO!!" They all whined.


    "Kevin is going to be home soon and he won''t give you the presents he bought if he knew you did not have your nap." Lena used the Kevin card again. "I''ll take them to sleep."


    They all pouted and went upstairs with Lena. Lena also just want to avoid the big crowd. This, after all, is the great and wonderful family she loves.


    "Dad, Lena will get married whenever she wants to. You''re not dying anytime soon. Pretending to sit in your wheelchair won''t help too." Shen Mo pointed out.


    Grandpa Shen cleared his throat. His d*mn son dared give him away. He wheeled his chair and went back out to the garden. He''ll give that Li boy a piece of his mind tomorrow.


    Lena told the boys a short story until they fell asleep. They went down really fast, probably because of the airplane ride. Because her grandparents are old, they can''t be in the car for a long time so the airplane was better transportation when they come to City A.


    Lena quietly got off the bed, but one of the boys were not asleep.


    "Does he like kids?" Joel whispered to Lena.


    "Of course." Lena patted him on the head. "And he..." Lena tried to think about something positive about Kris that would make the triplets like him. She does not exactly sure Kris was even a kid person....


    "Kevin says he''s a big bad wolf."


    "Nope." Lena shook her head. "He''s just like a superhero in a big bad wolf costume so he can hide with the bad guys."


    "Will he give us piggybacks?"


    "Yeah! He''ll give us all piggybacks. But now, you need to go to sleep or you won''t grow up tall and handsome like Kevin, okay?"


    "Okay."

 Chapter 266 - Kevin Shen

    Kris did go to the main company today. He had to do his in-house inspection for his businesses. He often visits his business and makes sure things were running fine.


    Kris visited a few business sites before heading over to the Casino. It took him a few years to clean up the dirty illegal business hi grandfather was laundering money in this business, but it was worth it.


    Especially with Lena now with him, he doesn''t want everything about him to be marked by bad things.


    When he arrived at the casino, Lay was already outside waiting for him.


    "Buddy!" Lay hugged Kris but he shoved him away.


    "I''m here for business." Kris continued to walk inside the casino.


    "I know, I know."


    "There has not been any incident lately?"


    "No. Most of the people understood your message when you wiped out a few of the main leaders. They stopped causing trouble here." Lay reported.


    "Good."


    Everyone greeted the big boss and Lay as they walked to the backroom. As they walked further to the back where all the behind workers are, Kris spotted some of the guards hustling in a hallway.


    "What''s happening over there?" Kris glanced at the hallway. "What did I tell you about beating up customers?" He glared at Lay.


    "They are not customers. Just a bunch of college kids scamming up the tables. I swear, they were reading the cards too easy. And they even have fake ID cards. Decided not to call the cops and just give them a good warning."


    Kris turned away and continued walking. But suddenly, he stopped. He turned back and walked down the hallway that the guards were hustled up, ready to give the young boys a good warning.


    "Boss!" The guards all stood up straight and made way for Kris.


    Kris spotted 5 young boys, on the ground and heads looking down like they were definitely guilty.


    Lay came up close to Kris and whispered to him. "Two of them are repeated offenders, saw them out in the parking lot, ready to drive out when the rest were done cashing out the money."


    Kris looked at the two young men that we''re upfront, definitely bulkier than the rest. They must be the leaders.


    Kris smiled. He bent down on his knees. "Kevin." He spoke.


    A young man from the back lifted up his head and looked at Kris. The two leaders from the group also lifted their heads and glared at Keven.


    "Yah... You said no one knows you up here?" One yelled.


    "Told ya not to let the rich boy into the team." The other one said.


    "I... I really don''t know him. I don''t know anyone here." Kevin shouted.


    "Kevin, you can drop the act." Kris stood up and walked to Kevin. He helped the man stand up and patted his shoulder. "You did a good job infiltrating these scums and helping me catch them. Been taking me a long time to find them. Thank you."


    "What?" Kevin was confused. He does not know who this man is!!


    "Take the rest and give them to the police," Kris commanded.


    Lay looked at Kris, not fully understanding the situation, but waved his hands so the guards can take the rest away.


    "Rich boy! Ima beat you and your gang really good after this!" One man shouted back.


    Kevin was about to walk off too but Kris put his hand on his shoulder and pulled him back.


    "Lay, hold him tight for me. Don''t let him go." Kris tossed Kevin to Lay, who held the young man tightly, not letting him escape.


    "You... You can''t do this to me. You heard them, I am rich. My family will sue you after this!"


    "Shut up!" Kris yelled at him. He took out his phone and called Lena. "Lena?"


    "BOY! When are you going to marry my granddaughter??!!"


    ''Definitely not Lena.'' Kris was caught off guard. "Hello, Elder Shen."


    Kevin stopped struggling and was afraid now. He didn''t think that this man would call his family... wait... he knew his name so obviously this man knew who his family was. His brain suddenly went stupid since he got caught.


    "Don''t... don''t tell my grandpa I am here."


    Kris looked at the scared young man and then ignored him. "Can I speak with Lena?"


    "Tsk... don''t want to talk to me... LENA! Your husband is calling you!"


    Grandpa Shen''s voice was so loud that even when the phone was not on speaker, everyone can hear him shout from the phone.


    Lena had just put the triplets to their nap and went down to help the ladies make an early family dinner for everyone. She was helping her mom with the dumplings when she heard her grandpa''s shouting voice echoing throughout the house.


    "Excuse me...." Lena washed her hands and went out. She walked out to where her grandpa was chilling, alone with him and his nature.


    "Grandpa..."


    "Here." Grandpa Shen handed Lena''s phone to her. "Your husband is calling for you. The ringing is so annoying."


    "Yes... so annoying that you kept my bag with you this entire time as if you were not expecting him to call me at all today." Lena pointed out her grandfather''s plan.


    "I was just making sure no weird men were calling you." He cleared his throat.


    "And he''s not my husband."


    "I don''t know his name. Too many boy names to remember. He will be whatever I call him." Grandpa Shen grunted and wheeled himself inside the house. His wheelchair was not needed but he liked it so he kept using it. It was better than walking around with his cane anyways.


    Lena sighed and finally answered Kris. "Hey... ignore that."


    "Which part? The part where I am not your husband or the part where I am?"


    "What do you want...?" Lena did not answer him.


    "You didn''t tell me your cousin was a genius at playing cards."


    "Kevin? I don''t know what goes on that brain of his. Genius doesn''t run in the family so I didn''t get his good brain. Why?" Lena replied.


    "I am out at the Casino today for an inspection. I ran across your cousin. Fake ID, running some big wins at the table and definitely handing out with the wrong crowd."


    "What?!" Lena put a hand on her forehead. "Did he get beat up?"


    "No."


    "Well, he will get one when I get there. Keep him there, I am coming to get him. Thanks by the way." Lena quickly hung up the call and went to find her bag.


    As expected, Grandpa Shen had her bag hung on his chair. Lena went and grabbed it out, ready to leave.


    "Where are you going?" Grandpa Shen asked.


    "Out."


    "With your husband? Don''t come back home!"


    Lena continued to walk out and got inside her car. She immediately drove out to the casino. ''What is really going on with Kevin?''

 Chapter 267 - Good cousin

    Lena was stuck in traffic for a bit, but she finally arrived at the Casino. She actually rushed here, so she did not know where to go. Luckily, there was someone already waiting outside for Lena and led her to where Kris was.


    When Lena entered the room, she immediately spotted her handsome man first but quickly turned her eyes away to Kevin instead, who was sitting on the sofa.


    Lena walked over to him and swung her bag to his head.


    "AH! Why are you hitting me? My mom doesn''t even hit me." Kevin shouted.


    "Yeah? It''s because Auntie loves you too much that''s why I can hit you. Seems like you don''t love her back at all!" Lena swung her bag one more time. "You need a good beating, be glad I am doing it and not him." Lena pointed at Kris, who was just casually sitting, not interfering with whatever his girl was doing.


    "I don''t even know him. Why are you always hanging around guys... don''t you already have a boyfriend?"


    "We''re not here to talk about my boyfriend, we are because of you. Now tell me, why are you here doing illegal businesses?"


    Kevin looked up at Lena and so did Kris. Kris felt like Lena was also scolding him about illegal businesses.


    "It''s nothing..." Kevin replied.


    "Nothing?! Well, why don''t we just put you where your friends are and your parents can come to pick you up at the police station huh?"


    "They''re not my friends."


    "C''mon Kevin. This isn''t you. Tell me what is going on?"


    "...." Kevin did not reply back instantly. He just looked at Lena and then at Kris. "It''s private."


    "Don''t look at him, look at me. He is my boyfriend, he can stay here."


    Kevin went back at looked at Kris anyways... Lena just called him a boyfriend. Of course... The Li family owned this Casino. He should have known when the people called him boss.


    On the other hand, Kris smiled. He liked it a lot when Lena claim him so openly.


    "Do you owe people money? Are you in trouble? Are you getting a bully?"


    "..." Kevin avoided eye contact with Lena.


    Lena sighed and sat down next to him. "You''re so smart... got into a good college. You know.... you remind me of someone."


    "Gary." Kevin answered.


    "Yeah. Brain smart but not so street smart. Getting bully for his brains."


    "Yeah... well, he''s dead."


    "That''s because he keeps getting into trouble and doing stupid stuff. Now, what did you do? You know I will find out anyway, so might as well come clean right now."


    Kevin buckled up and told Lena why he was mixed up with these people and why he was here. Lena listened and after he was done, she gave him a soft pinch to his cheeks.


    "Ahhh stop it. It''s embarrassing." Keven slapped away Lena''s hand.


    "I am going to treat you like a kid until you are not one anymore. Now, I will take care of the money and your friend, so I better not be hearing from you skipping out on your family again. You hear me?"


    "Yeah."


    "The triplets look up to you, so be a good brother for them. You know how much work it was to make them nap?" Actually, it was no work at all but Lena wanted Kevin to feel some pressure.


    "Sorry. Are you going to tell my parents?" Kevin asked.


    "No. But..." Lena added. "You are going to work for Kris until you pay off whatever money you cheated from him when you start classes here."


    "Oh what?! But it''s like---"


    "No buts. He''s going to work your *ss off so you know where the real money comes from."


    "Fine.... I like you better when you were a spoiled cheeky brat." Kevin commented.


    "Well, your spoil cheeky bratty cousin will not bail you out and would have gone crying to grandpa that you go in trouble. Plus, she wouldn''t be dating the most handsome man in the world that just didn''t turn you into the police."


    Lena told him to get his stuff and meet her outside. Kevin exited the room to go get his bag that was left when he and the others were taken to the back room.


    Lena watched as he left and sighed. Kris walked over and hugged her from behind.


    "You''re a good cousin." Kris kissed her neck.


    "You think I was too harsh? or should I have hit him a bit harder?"


    "Hmmm, I don''t know. Only people I scold are my workers... and they get no mercy. I don''t think that applies to this situation."


    Lena laughed and turned around. She wrapped her hands on his neck and pulled him in for a kiss.


    "Thanks... for calling me."


    "Do I get a present? I worked so hard today."


    "Mhmm...." Lena captured his lips again. This time she made sure it was sweet and long. She opened her mouth as she kissed his lips, on and off.


    By the time they both parted, they were breathless and just stared into each other''s eyes. Kris put his thumb on Lena''s cheeks and caressed it.


    "You like kids?" Lena asked.


    "Kids? Like the little thing that cries a lot or has a ridiculous amount of energy?"


    Lena laughed. "Yeah, those."


    "I don''t know," Kris answered. "I have not been around other kids to make an opinion on them. Only stories from other people. Can I just say I only like our kids?"


    "Well, you''re going to like the triplets. Just bring some candy with you."


    "Yes... good idea. Bribe children with candy the same way their cousin got bride with chocolate to kiss someone else."


    "Hey, hey. It was worth it... at the time ok? The chocolate was really rich and creamy."


    "I know." Kris pecked Lena on the lips. "You drive safe home, I have some work to finish up here. And I''ll see you tomorrow. You''ll be dressed up and I''ll be ready to stab people''s eyes who will stare at you."


    Lena told Kris to not work too late and then she left. Kevin was already outside waiting for her. Lena texted her mom if they had dinner yet. Shen Milli said they did not.


    Lena replied that she went to pick up Kevin so they would be home soon. On the ride back home, Lena made sure that Kevin had a good cover story. She made sure not to scold him too much.

 Chapter 268 - Mojo tiger

    When they got home, no one asked them questions. Everyone knew that even when Lena was spoiled and bratty, she was always the loving older sister for everyone. She held her family in high value.


    They all waited for the triplets to wake up from their nap before having a big family dinner.


    It was getting late and everyone needed to sleep early to get ready for the event tomorrow. Lena had to get her hair and makeup done, get dressed and arrive early at the event with the rest of her family.


    Early the next morning, Lena worked up early and helped Aunt Mary make breakfast for everyone. The triplets were already up earlier than her and running around the house playing superheroes.


    Because Lena did not want to miss the traffic, she headed out first after breakfast.


    She arrived at the place and immediately start getting her hair and make-up done. Her dress arrived safely here. Lena sat on a chair for three hours just to get her makeup done. She took a break to eat lunch and it took an hour to get her hair done.


    She did not know how Hazel handles this every single day for her work.


    Finally, she wore the dress and accessories to complete her look. Because the event was more of a family event, Lena would be arriving with her family instead.


    Kevin will be picking her up while someone else will come back for her car.


    She only waited for a while when Kevin arrived. He got out of the car and opened the passenger door for Lena. All the female workers came out and looked at how handsome Kevin was.


    "If you wear suits more often, you won''t be single much longer." Lena teased him.


    "I don''t know why girls like men in suits more. I think I will stick to my sweatpants and T-shirts."


    Lena laughed. Kevin got back to the driver''s seat and drove them to the Shen Company.


    The rest of the Shen family was already there. Kevin and Lena were the last to arrive. Guests were already arriving too and the entrance was already gathered with reporters.


    Kevin didn''t make many appearances in the big city, so when he stepped out of the car, not much of the reporters paid attention to him.


    He walked over to the passenger door and opened the door for Lena. Lena smiled at him and gently got out of the car.


    Once she got out and everyone can see who she was, the cameras started flickering.


    Lena was wearing a low-high dress. It was her usual style of dresses that were traditional Chinese qipao with a modern flare. It was laced up to her neck and the sleeves were down to her elbow.


    "Lena Shen always wear the best dresses. And her matching accessories are always on point!"


    "That style and design... is it designed by the fashion artist Michael?"


    "And that young man next to her... it''s not Kris Li. Who could he be?!"


    "Stupid, that''s Kevin Shen. Last year he was such a quiet boy but it looked like he can be a top bachelor. He would be attending University here too!"


    Kevin put out his hand and Lena took it as the walked inside. However, what she did not expect was that a reporter abruptly blocked her path.


    Kevin put his other hand out and blocked the reporter from getting any closer to them as the guards made sure the reporter was not dangerous.


    "Miss. Shen, is it true that you slept with Mike Zhao?"


    Lena looked at the reporter and the cameras stopped flashing as everyone was curious. Lena immediately smiled at the reporter and walked up to him.


    "What is your name?" Lena asked him.


    "My name is not important. Miss. Shen, you are currently dating Kris Li. Does he know that you had slept with Mike Zhao before?"


    Lena burst into a laugh and looked at the crowd of reporters. "Is he stupid or what? He just asked me if I would sleep with a nobody versus Kris Li!"


    Lena laughed again but then stopped and seriously looked at the reporter. She glanced at his name tag. "I had dinner with that man once. When did having dinner turn into sleeping with them? I can give you an entire list of the men I had dinner with since I was born. And one more thing, if you really wanna know about my sexual life, please, feel free to talk about it with my boyfriend. He can tell you all about it if I had slept with someone else or not."


    Lena nodded and smiled. She walked away with Kevin and the reporter just stood there stupidly. Of course, he does not have the gut to talk to Kris Li!


    Other reporters just laughed and shook their head. They all knew better than making up stupid stuff like that to get attention. Especially if it is the woman of Kris Li.


    "You really don''t let anyone get to you." Kevin spoke.


    "If I did, I would not be here being the happy person I am. You should never let anyone tell you what you are and are not."


    "I''ll remember that."


    They walked and join the rest of their family as they greeted the guests.


    Everyone was complimenting Lena''s dress and how Shen Milli was so thankful to have a great daughter like her.


    Lena continued to put her public face but inside, she was silently waiting for Kris to arrive. When everyone stopped talking for a bit and looked at the door, Lena thought that maybe finally the Li family was here.


    Sadly... it was just another big shop family, the Zhao''s. They walked over to Lena and her parents.


    "CEO Shen! You always know how to throw a good party." Zhao Lin spoke.


    "So glad you and your family can make it." Shen Mao replied back.


    "Our partnership has continued to grow both of our companies, we should continue to support each other."


    "Absolutely."


    The elders both separated from the children when they continued to talk business. Lena''s eyes were still glued to the door.


    "Are you waiting for Kris?" Ming Zhao asked.


    "No." Lena replied. "He''ll come sometime, whenever. You know... big shots never come on time or it''s not cool."


    Ming Zhao laughed... he never usually come on time to events. He did not know if Lena was just making a general comment or referring to him.


    "Well, if you are not waiting for someone, let''s go get a drink."


    "It''s over there, you can go yourself."


    "You''re supposed to put your good hostmask on."


    Lena rolled her eyes and him but reluctantly lead them both to the drinks. She grabbed one for herself and handed the other one to Ming.


    "By the way, where is your brother?"


    "He was here... probably saw someone to hook up with and left. Why you ask?"


    "Just wondering." Lena casually shrugged.


    "What about me? You can ask about me. I have not seen you since... since you broke up with me."


    "First of all, we were never a thing so we can''t break up. And second of all, I have so many handsome men around me, I can''t keep track and give them all attention. You know Kris is like a mojo tiger?"


    "A mojo tiger...?" Ming cleared his throat.


    Ming drank his glass of wine. Lena and he talked about the progress of Project Crystal and how Madam Zhou''s fashion industry was doing. They were now at the opposite end of the room from the entrance.


    When the Li family entered the event room, Lena did not immediately spot her man because she was laughing at Ming''s jokes. However, the rest of the room defnitely felt the intense and powerful aura from the family.


    Kris wore a light gray suit, matching with Lena''s grey-blue dress. His mother had her hand on Kris arm, the first time that Kris had ever escorted her mother like that. The crowd was very cautious and that sight did not get missed.


    Madam Li had a big grin, she was so happy that she can forever attend events being escorted by her son, just like any other old Madam her age. Even though Madam Li''s smile was so big, Kris'' face was dull as usual. No smile, no fear, no emotions.


    His eyes glanced through the crowd but somehow, he could not spot his tigress.


    "Auntie." A soft voice spoke.


    Everyone finally spot a tall young woman next to Madam Li, opposite of Kris.


    "Who is she? I have never seen her before."


    "She called Madam Li, Auntie.... could she be from the Wang family?"


    "The Wangs...? I don''t remember seeing someone like her before."


    The crowd started to murmur as Madam Li released her hand from Kris'' arm and looked at Becca. "I am going to go talk with my friends, you young people can stop following me."


    Madam Li spoke as if both of them wanted to follow her. Kris was ready to dump his sweat mother with her old lady crowd and go find Lena... and Becca was the one who was ready to follow Kris everywhere he went.

 Chapter 269 - Necktie

    Lena stopped laughing when the crowd went silent for a second time. This time, she was sure it had to be the Li family.


    What she did not like was the sight of Becca. Wasn''t the woman suppose to be on assignment? And yet she is here instead of chasing other people''s men.


    Lena sighed.


    Ming glanced at her and then took of sip from his glass. "Are you going to walk over there?"


    "And?"


    "Give the woman a big slap on her face."


    "Please... I did that last time and I got the slap in the face. I know how to learn from my mistakes." Lena laughed.


    "Ah... I do remember that. But if that does happen, then you can kiss a random stranger again. I will volunteer as tribute."


    "Thank you for your volunteer. But this day and age, the woman doesn''t always have to walk to her man, we like it when the man walks to us instead." Lena gulped down the rest of her drink. She placed it back on the table. "Your necktie is crooked."


    Lena loosened Ming''s necktie.


    "My necktie isn''t crooked..." He was confused. He made sure he was in perfect shape whenever he went out. But then he realized what Lena was doing, seeing that Kris immediately walking over to them. "Oh... yes thank you for fixing my CROOKED tie."


    Kris was wondering why he didn''t see Lena immediately. She was all the way in the back, opposite of him and a group of people blocked her view from him. Once he caught sight of her, he slowly walked to her. He picked up his pace once she saw that she was fixing another man''s tie... Ming''s tie.


    He did not even notice Becca trailing behind him. Kris immediately walked up to Lena and placed his hand on her waist and she finished fixing up Ming''s tie for him.


    Lena smiled sweetly at Ming. "There, all good." She patted the tie.


    "Can I get mine fix too?" Kris interrupted.


    Lena could already sense his hand on her waist and his glares at Ming. She also noticed the way Becca walked up and stood next to Kris, but not close enough to the man, respecting his space.


    Lena turned her body a bit toward Kris and smiled at him. She glanced at his perfectly made tie.


    "Aw babe, your tie is fine. And we all know that if I am taking it off, it wouldn''t be here." She giggled and gave him a greeting kiss on the side of his cheek.


    "Mhnnnh!" Becca cleared her throat.


    Lena popped her head out from Kris big body. "Oh, Becca. I didn''t see you there."


    "Hello, Miss. Shen." Becca replied.


    "Did you all come together?" Lena asked.


    "Ah yes, I came with my Aunt and Kris."


    "Oh...." Lena looked at Kris again. "Are you not going to stay with me tonight?" Lena made an innocent sad face.


    Ming rolled his eyes, Lena had upped her game. He didn''t need to be feed with these two!


    "Becca is not useless... she can drive a car. I can go home with you." Kris patted Lena''s head.


    "But I came with Kevin. It''s okay, it''s not his car anyways, we can go home in that car." Lena replied.


    "Kris, you only stayed with your mother for one night. Are you not going to visit her longer?" Becca spoke


    "My mother is not a jealous woman if I stay with Lena, not like some people." Kris replied.


    Lena wanted to laugh out loud, but she held it in. "Oh, I forgot, I still need to say hello to your mother and you need to meet my family. Becca, you can stay here and meet Ming Zhao, he''s lonely." Lena dragged Kris away.


    "Oh, and Ming, how about some cookies as thanks?" Lena should at least thank him for using him.


    Ming shook her head. Not because he did not want the cookies but he does not like the crazy woman that Lena leave him with. Hazel and now this woman who look like she can kill him with a blink of an eye.


    "Ok, cookies then." Lena answered for him and continued to walk away, leaving them.


    "Do I get some cookies too?" Kris asked.


    "Do you want everything that I give to someone else?"


    "Yes."


    "Even if I shoot him?"


    "...." Kris pondered. "Yes."


    Lena laughed. "You can deliver the cookies to him if you want. And yes, you can have some too."


    "OK." Kris replied.


    He looked at Lena''s happy face as she dragged him to the crowd of the Shen family. He smiled. Lena did not see it as she was focused on walking but a few people who kept staring at the couple definitely say the emotionless Kris Li smiled at Lena.


    "AHHH!" A girl squealed and pinched her partner. "Did you see that? He smiled at her. Aren''t they just a perfect pair."


    "Look, look. Is Kris Li wearing a ring? I didn''t see that earlier when he came in."


    "Oh yeah... it is a ring? Did the two of them get engaged?"


    "Did they? There were no announcements."


    Lena also wore her ring today. As they finally arrived where her family was, she already spotted Madam Li talking with her grandmother.


    "Lena!" Grandma Shen shouted her name.


    Lena went up to her grandmother and Madam Li. "Hello, Madam Li."


    "You look pretty today." Madam Li replied.


    "Is that him?!" Grandpa Shen cleared his throat and glared at Kris. He looked Kris up and down. And then, with his cane, he patted it on Kris legs, and shoulder before nodding. "Hello Kevin."


    "Grandpa, it''s Kris. Kevin is your grandson''s name." Lena tried not to laugh.


    "I know that!"


    "Hello, grandpa... grandma."


    Grandma Shen immediately smiled. He called her grandma!! That means good stuff. The young man is strong and not afraid. And seeing his tight drip on Lena''s waist... he was not going to let her slid off from his side.


    "What''s his name again?" Grandpa Shen went close to Lena and asked.


    "It''s Kris."


    "Kris!" He grunted. "When can I just call him your husband?!"


    Madam Li and Grandma Shen laughed.


    "Grandpa... if you can''t remember his name, then you won''t be seeing any of my kids any time soon to remember their names also." Lena seriously spoke.


    "I know his name! It Ken!"


    "It''s Kris."


    "I said Kris."


    "Grandpa can call me whatever he wants to, it won''t change who I am." Kris replied and smiled at the old man.


    Grandpa Shen cleared his throat again and tapped his cane stern on the ground.


    Shen Ma and Shen Mo saw that Kris also arrived so they went to introduce themselves. Aunt Ma also introduced herself. Lena''s parents were also there.


    "Where are the triplets?"


    "Kevin took them to change their clothes." Aunt Ma replied. "They already made a mess."


    "You stay here and I will go get us something to drink." Lena told Kris.


    "Juice for you," Kris said. He saw that Lena already had a glass before so he did not want her to drink more than that. He knew she can drink more, but it doesn''t mean she should continue to keep drinking.


    "Yes." Lena patted his shoulder and left him with her gang of families.


    Once Lena left, her uncles did not stop asking Kris questions. How the Li company was? Does he work out? How many cars does he have? They made sure to not ask anything about Lena and them because they knew both of them had enough of those already.


    Kris immediately replied to all the questions like he was in a meeting. Short, stern, and complete.


    When Lena returned, she joined her family for a few for conversation. Everyone knew that Kris would be joining the Shen family in their outing tomorrow so they had him for the whole day tomorrow to ask him more questions.


    After a while, everyone sat down in tables and Shen Mao went up and talked. A few other representatives went up and talked before dinner arrived. After dinner, it was a small party of dancing and more chit-chat.


    It was not until then that the triplets made their appearance.


    They saw Lena dancing with Kris. They all waited in a single line, waiting for the dance to end.


    "Me next!" Jonah spoke, as he was the first one in line. He saw that Kris and Lena were going to dance again. "You have to wait in line, bro."


    Kris glared at the three little kids and they all glared at him back.


    "Kris... meet the kids, Jonah, John, and Joel."


    "Hi." Kris greeted them.


    The triplets avoided him. "We waited in line for you, can we please go next." They all said.


    "Fine... but only one dance per person." Lena spoke.


    "Yes!" They all saluted Lena.


    Lena shook her head and held Jonah''s hand. "Kris, you can stay with these two."


    "Stay?" Kris looked at the two devil children. Devil''s are not meant to stay together.


    "Yeah, just remember what I told you last time."


    "I thought that was a joke."


    Lena just smiled and went to the dance floor with Jonah. Because he was short, she just held his hands and they danced like that.


    As Lena was dancing, John and Joel forced Kris to be at the back of the line, saying there is no cutting in line.


    Kris did not know what "Cutting in line" meant.


    They two of them were whispering but it was a loud whispering so Kris could hear every single word they were saying.


    "You think he is a big bad wolf?"


    "But Mommy Lena says he''s not."


    "He''s a big bad wolf... look at him."


    They both stopped and looked up at Kris. Kris also looked down at them. They went back to whispering.


    "See... he doesn''t smile. He''s like those people who kidnap kids."


    "Do you think he will kidnap Mommy Lena?"


    "We will beat him up tomorrow. Jonah says we can."


    Kris was confused. First, why do they call Lena, Mommy Lena... and second of all, he does not know how to feel when he hears little kids are going to beat him up tomorrow. In his usual self, he would kill them.


    But he feels like that''s not how normal people react to this type of situation. He went to his pocket and pulled out some candy.


    "Do you want some candy?" Kris asked them.


    They stopped whispering again and looked at the candies in his hand.


    "Candy Andy never gave us candy."


    ''Candy Andy....'' Kris wanted to laugh. What name will he be getting? "Well, Candy Andy is a douch*."


    "Yes!" Both of them agreed and took the candy from Kris'' hand. They opened it, stuffed the wrappers to their pockets, and popped the candy into their mouths.

 Chapter 270 - Lenas rant

    Lena took turns with the triplets. When she was back with Kris, she gently placed her head on him and kept him close to her.


    Kris looked back at the triplets who were still in a single file line even though Lena only told them that she was dancing with them once only. Never in his mind did he imagined competing with little kids.


    He thought that he had met the worst competitors before... but now... he can''t even lay a single hand on the triplets... let alone say something bad to them.


    "I ran out of candies..." Kris spoke.


    Lena lifted her head off and looked at him. "You''re so cute."


    "Would I have to stock our house with candies at every corner for our kids?" Kris asked a very serious question.


    "No." Lena laughed. "You only give candies to other people''s kids. For your own kids, you need to be a strict parent or they will grow up like me."


    "There is nothing wrong with you."


    "There''s a lot of things wrong with me." Lena grabbed Kris hand. "C''mon, we need to hide before I get steal away again."


    The song was ending and Lena knew that the triplets would want another round of dancing with her. She grabbed Kris hand and pulled them behind a few other people as the triplets nagged each other.


    Lena knew the company layout very well. She took Kris out of the main room and they climb up the stairs to the next floor.


    Kris did not know where Lena was taking them, but he followed her regardless. They arrived in an open area that seems like the spot where people take a break. Lena opened the door and they arrived outside in a small balcony area where more tables and chairs were set.


    "Is this one of the things wrong with you?" Kris asked Lena.


    "Yes. Sneaking out of an event my family is hosting to be alone with my man." Lena put her arms around Kris and smiled at him. "Did I tell you that you look very handsome today?"


    She was on heels so she did not need the extra reach to kiss him today. She hungrily kissed him on the lips, not waiting for him to answer her question.


    Kris did not mind any attention from her at all. He put his hands on her waist and kissed her back, not leaving until she was satisfied.


    When their lips parted, they were both breathless. They stared into each other''s eyes. Kris knew that Lena wanted another round, so as soon as he felt her well-rested again, he took initiative this time.


    He bent her back a little so he can have a better taste of her. Just when they were just feeling each other again, a small noise interrupted their romantic kiss.


    "Ouch, stop pushing me."


    "SHH!!"


    Kris stopped kissing Lena and glanced at the triplets who were obvious exposed already. Lena did not event need to turn around to tell that it was the triplets that followed them here. She only wondered how they found them so fast.... do they have a secret tracker on her?


    "Shouldn''t you kids be eating cake or something?" Kris spoke in a stern voice.


    His time with Lena had been cut by 75% with these pesty little brats. Lena could feel that Kris was feeling agitated. She giggled softly.


    "We wanted to eat a cake with Mommy," Joel replied.


    "You''re mommy is busy eating something else. Go eat cake yourself." Kris grabbed hold of Lena closer to him, as if not letting her go.


    The tree triplets had a lighting stare contest with Kris, none of them blinking at all.


    "Why are you guys following me." Lena spoke.


    "If you get married, and have your own kids, you won''t play with us anymore." They all shouted.


    "She''s not even your real mother. Shouldn''t you all follow your brother Kevin instead?" Kris spoke.


    The triplets blinked and then stared at each other. "What do you mean?"


    "Lena will get married, but you will still have your real mother. But if Kevin gets married... and have his own kids... he''s your real brother, so you will be losing a real bother."


    "...." The triplets paused and thought about what Kris said. "No one likes Kevin, he''s a nerd."


    "..." Kris was speechless... how can they say that about their own brother! "Then why didn''t he stay with you guys yesterday? He went out as soon as he arrived here. He probably has a girl he likes."


    The triplets gasped and huddled in a circle to talk secretively. After a few seconds, they straightened up and puffed out their chests like macho men.


    "We''re going to go eat cake, bye!"


    As soon as they said that, they all scattered and ran away.


    Lena giggled at Kris and the nonsense he threw at the triplets. Kris glared at her amusement from his frustrations.


    Instead, he put his hands on her face and kissed her senseless again. He didn''t dare let Lena go until she slapped his shoulders.


    "You''re the one that brought us up here...." Kris teased Lena and her blushed face.


    "That''s... that''s because of all those hungry women looking at you. Ever since we got together and people start seeing that your like chill with me touching you, it''s like their eyes went from fearing Kris Li to imagining Kris Li naked!"


    Kris continued to look at Lena as she ranted.


    "And it''s unfair because men are scared of you while the woman is like ''It''s just Lena Shen, if I put my fake boobs next to Kris then he''ll see me...'' and stuff."


    Lena pounded her finger at Kris as she continues to express herself. "NO ONE is allowed to imagine you naked except me, and NO ONE is allowed to give you the sexy dirty eye look except me. Man, I just wanna grab their hair and smack their little faces a few times. I just want to rub myself all over you in front of them so they no your mine!"


    Lena took a deep breath and looked at Kris.


    "Ok." Kris spoke.


    "Ok." Lena relaxed. "Oh... but you know it''s also so thrilling to know that I am with you and not them. You know? Like... I am the queen and they are just servants? Can I show off like that?"


    "Mhmm..." Kris smiled. Women. Only they can be angry and so happy at the same time.


    "I feel like you''re falling asleep on me."


    "Nope. I heard everything. Only you fall asleep on me."


    "Yes." Lena nodded.


    "It''s getting cold, let''s go back in." Kris gave Lena one last kiss before they both walked back inside the building and back to the event room.


    They spotted the triplets with Kevin and scaring away every single woman that came near them.

 Chapter 271 - The Sanders Family

    Sadly when they went back, Kris was stolen by several businessmen. They were also drinking quite a lot so Lena did not stay and intrude their conversations. Instead, she went and chat with some of the young women that she had not seen before.


    "Lena Shen?"


    A small voice called Lena''s name. Lena turned around to see a delicate and cute woman. She must be the same age as Kevin.


    "Hello." Lena greeted her. "Have we met before?"


    "No. But my father talked a lot about you. You are much more beautiful in person than the pictures."


    "Pictures??" Lena was hoping an old man was not taking pictures of her...


    "Oh.. I mean like in the news. Mr. Li and you have been in the top news lately."


    "I see..." Lena looked at the young woman more carefully. She looked familiar. "Are you, by any chance, Hannah Sanders?"


    "Yes!" Hannah excitedly grabbed Lena''s hand. "But I take my father''s real family name, so I got by Hannah Chen."


    "Chen?"


    "When my father moved his business out, he took the last name Sanders and so did my 5 adopted brothers. But I kept the original family surname."


    "I see..." Lena faked a smile. Chen... it couldn''t be right... there are so many Chen out there.


    "What about your older brother...? I mean does he take Chen too?"


    "Older brother??" Hannah pondered. "Ah... yes."


    "Is he here with you father?" Lena asked.


    "No..." Hannah replied softly. "I... I never met him before. My dad doesn''t like talking about him much. But, recently, he said that my brother is coming home."


    Lena had never met Mr. Sanders... so she can''t say that if he was who she thought so too.


    Hannah did not look a lot like Gary.... but if they were siblings, they would be half-siblings. The information she had gotten about Mr. Sanders said that he is back in China due to his expansion of fortunes for his children.... Was Lena thinking too much about Mr. Sanders being Gary''s father?


    And even if he is... why is Gary hiding that information so much from Lena? Should she ask Kris instead.... no, Kris made his own brotherhood agreement with Gary? Gary had just made new connections, she should not interfere.


    Lena softly shook her head. She would need to see Mr. Sanders before she jumped to conclusions.


    "Actually, I have never met your father before," Lena spoke.


    "Really? I can go to introduce you!"


    Lena and Hannah excused themselves from the group of young women. Hannah was still holding Lena''s arm like they were best buddies.


    The past a few people before they arrived at where Mr. Sanders was.


    "Papa!" Hannah shouted for her father''s attention. She lets go of Lena''s arm and hugged her dad.


    Lena was really hoping that when the old man turned around.... he wouldn''t be the person she assumed him to be. But sadly, looks don''t lie.


    "Ahaha... my beautiful daughter." Mr. Sanders turned around and hugged Hannah.


    "I''ve met Lena." She smiled at Lena.


    "Miss. Shen." Mr. Sanders nodded and put his hand out for a handshake.


    "Nice to finally meet you, Mr. Sanders." Lena smiled and shook his hand.


    "Please, Mr. Sanders is what people call me overseas. Call me, Mr. Chen." Chen Xu replied.


    Just then, Lena finally felt the presence of Kris. She was paying to much attention on Mr. Chen that she did not originally see that Kris was talking with him.


    Kris put his hand on Lena''s waist and met her eyes. He knew then that Lena had connected the dots. Mr. Sanders too, knew that Lena know his real identity.


    "I was just talking with Mr. Li here. I guess I should be thanking you too, for taking care of my son so carefully."


    Lena looked back at Chen Xu. She could not read him at all, instead she kept her smile. "Yes, absolutely."


    On the other hand, Hannah was confused. Before, Lena asked her questions like she did not know anything about her family.... does Lena know her older brother?


    "I was hoping that we can all have dinner together." Chen Xu asked.


    "That''ll be tricky. Your son is such a busy man, I barely see him myself." Lena put up an excused, knowing that the old man was probably using this method just to get close to Gary.


    He smiled. "My son busy just like me. Well, I hope my Gan and I can see each other soon. It''s a pity though, I really thought I would have Miss. Shen as my daughter-in-law instead. Guessed I lost to the Li family again." He chuckled.


    ''Again..?'' Lena caught that. ''Gan... that must be Gary''s birth name.''


    "Well, I still have to go to meet someone, so please excuse me."


    Hannah still wanted to stay and talk to Lena but her father dragged her away with him. Her father does not talk about her big brother much, but she was always curious about him. If Lena knows her older brother.... then maybe she is more willing to tell her more about him.


    Lena watched both of them leave and her eyes kept staring into space until Kris nudge her.


    "Don''t think too much about it." Kris spoke softly to her.


    Lena blinked and looked up at Kris. "It''s him... his father."


    "It doesn''t matter the weather I say yes or no... you won''t stop thinking about it anyway, right?"


    "I am not going to ask any questions," Lena said sternly. She already promised herself not to ask until Gary was willing to tell her himself.


    "Are you sure?"


    "...." Kris was not making it easier for Lena to hold back. "Just one..."


    Kris waited for her to ask her question.


    "Is... is Gary in danger? Are we in danger? Should we send Gary far away?"


    "That''s more than one question."


    "I..." One question just kind of led to another one.


    Kris held Lena''s hand and look straight into her eyes. "No to all of them. Well, I mean if you marry me then it''s a no, if not then it might be a yes."


    "Shut up." Lena slapped Kris on the arm and let out a chuckle.


    "But really, no. So don''t think about it too much. I don''t have any more candies, I told you that already right?"


    "Are you trying to make me drag you out again?"


    "Yes." Actually, Kris just wanted to make Lena not think too much about Chen Xu. "I never knew that talking about business is so boring after a makeout session."


    "Shut up." Lena slapped him again in the arm.


    Kris didn''t want Lena to drink to much tonight, so he dragged her to the ground with him instead. This time though, he told her that Lena can go around bragging her man around to people. That definitely made Lena''s mind wander somewhere else than thinking about Gary and his dad.


    While Kris was occupied with Lena, he did not notice the interactions between his mother and Chen Xu.


    "I didn''t think you would really show up." Madam Li spoke to Chen Xu.


    Hannah was tired of being dragged by her father so she left him. He was going to go get a drink before he was stopped by Madam Li.


    "Well, I was generously invited. And I have kept my face hidden for too long." Chen Xu replied.


    "Don''t think that I don''t know what you are up to."


    "What am I up to? I am only reuniting my family. Didn''t you do similar things to reunite your family too?" Chen Xu smiled at Madam Li.


    "Chen Xu, don''t you dare involve my son in your business."


    "She''s such a beautiful woman. Sad my son couldn''t have her instead."


    "You have ugly genes."


    Chen Xu chuckled. "I heard that the Shen family has a son around my daughter''s age."


    "Didn''t I say you have ugly genes?"


    "Well, my daughter is pretty. Look at her." Chen Xu pointed at his cute daughter.


    "Her personality is ugly."


    "That fake daughter of yours.... her personality is ugly." He retorted back at Madam Li then left.

 Chapter 272 - A midnight surprise. (R-18)

    ==========


    It gets hot in this chapter, don''t read if you don''t like this stuff.


    ==========


    When the event was near the end, Lena excused herself early than the rest. Lena made an excused that she was not going to stay at the mansion tonight so she can prepare for the trip tomorrow.


    But everyone knew, she just wanted to spend some alone time with Kris.


    Because Lena only had a glass of alcohol tonight, she drove both of them back to their apartments.


    "Lena."


    "Hmm?" Lena turned to Kris.


    "The lights green."


    "Oh..." Lena put her mind on driving and stepped on the gas.


    "Are you sure you don''t want me to drive instead?"


    "No, I am good."


    Kris knew that Lena''s mind had wandered off thinking about Chen Xu and Gary. "There are some battles you are just not meant to be on the front lines," Kris spoke.


    "I know." Lena replied but continue to drive carefully.


    "And there are some battles that you just can''t end with a single swing. It''s no fun."


    "Is that why Mike Zhao and Tyler Huang are still alive?"


    "Maybe..." Kris chuckled. "You once told me that I was a coward to attack your family business when I should settle personal problems with you instead."


    "I did?" Lena does not remember her saying that.


    "Plus, shutting down a big company is the worst thing a person can do just to get back at a single person. Especially if the company is a thriving one. Imagine all those people who would be jobless. And the flow of business."


    Lena entered the parking lot and parked the car. She turned off the car engine and looked at Kris. "You''ve changed."


    "Of course..." Kris grabbed Lena''s hand and kissed the ring on it. "Life isn''t meaningless. Not mine or anyone else... well, some people that is."


    "Hmm..."


    "And trust me baby girl.... It''s a pain being considerate. You should be more rewarding considering I work so hard."


    "You''re not single... I think that''s a good reward." Lena snatched her hand back and opened the door to get out.


    Kris also got out of the car and they both walked to the elevator. Lena pushed the button and yawned as she got inside.


    Lena turned opposite of the door and stared out into the city. It always looked very pretty at night. It''s like the world was peaceful and beautiful.


    Kris stopped the elevator just when they were only halfway there. He walked behind Lena and hugged her, giving her a kiss on her nape.


    "What are you doing?" Lena nudged him a bit.


    "Waking you up.... you can''t go tired on me yet."


    "..." Lena let him continue to hug her tightly from behind. "If we get a new place... would the scenery be as good as this?"


    "Whatever you like." He kissed her again.


    Lena turned around and looked at Kris. His eyes were still as dark as the night sky.


    "I know what you are doing..."


    "I am not doing anything." Kris pecked her cheeks.


    "Mhmmm..."


    "Did I tell you that you look very beautiful today?" Kris always liked using Lena words back at her. Like what she did before to him, he did not wait for her to respond before capturing her sweet lips.


    Lena wrapped her hands on his neck and pulled him closer to her, accepting his touch of her lips. She parted her lips just enough for him to cave inside her mouth with his tongue... tangling it with her.


    He passionately kissed her, not like before when she was a bit rough. They breathed in between each lip as they continued a long pattern of playing with each other''s tongue and then kissing their lips plump.


    Kris gave Lena a final kissed on her lips before parting away from her. He looked into her sweets eyes, knowing she enjoyed it. He glanced at his watch and noticed that it was 3 minutes past midnight.


    ''Where is it.... they''re late.'' Kris looked out the window.


    "What is it?" Lena said. "Is someone watching us?"


    "No." He smiled at her. "It''s a one-way mirror."


    "Still though... people can still use heat signature cameras to spy on us."


    Kris let out a soft chuckled and stepped closer to Lena. He put his hand on her the side of her face. "Then... should we give them a really good show..?"


    "....."


    Kris gave her a small kiss on the lips. He grabbed her hand and placed it on his crotch. "I don''t think I can wait till we get home...."


    "We''re in the elevator..." Lena blushed.


    "So..." He pressed her hand on his awakening brother, breathing softly to her ears.


    "The light''s on..."


    Kris immediately reached his long hand and turned off the elevator lights. "Off."


    "Pervert."


    "Me or yo---"


    Before Kris could finish his sentence, Lena kissed him on the lips as she untied his tie and threw it on the ground.


    "Me." She spoke quickly before kissing him again.


    Kris pushed Lena against the glass frame and kissed her back. She unbuttons his shirt and he helped her remove the shirt off him.


    "Gosh... why did you have to wear something so hard to take off!" Kris grunted.


    "Cuz it''s more fun that way."


    Kris went around Lena back and unzipped her dress, he just pulled the top of the dress down so it was like she was wearing a tutu skirt.


    He grabbed her waist and hoisted her up so she was somewhat sitting on the railing handle of the elevator.


    As he continued to kiss her from lips to her neck, his hand was making down her. He slid past her panties and into her opening, just slightly rubbing the outside of it.


    Lena let out a soft moan when he touched her sensitive spot down there. She arched her neck, allowing him to further nest his head on it and give her kisses.


    "You''re so wet down here already..."


    Usually, in the past, Kris would have to do more foreplay with Lena before she got this wet.


    "Ah... cuz... we''re in the elevator."


    Kris smiled and stuck on finger inside her. It easily went in. "If I remembered correctly, s*x in the car was also on your list."


    Lena but her lips as Kris put a second finger inside her.


    Kris continued to tease her down below. He didn''t want to hurt her again. He wanted her to feel as many pleasures as he does.


    Lena put her hand on his shoulder and groaned. "Please... I...ah... I want you."


    Hearing her say that, Kris removed his two fingers from inside her. He gave a kiss as he loosened his pants and freed his hard manhood.


    He pulled down Lena''s panties and lifted up her skirt. Lena was now just standing up with him. He lifted one of her legs up and, without signal, he guided his rod to her entrance and entered her in one thrust.


    Lena grabbed his shoulders and let out a loud moan.


    Kris grabbed her and continued to kiss her as he moved his hips back and forth, his rod entering and exiting.


    "Kris..." Lena called out his name.


    He could feel that her legs we getting weak. He lifted her up as he was still inside her. She wrapped her legs on him and arms on him.


    He had his strong arms on the bottom of her butt, supporting her weight and continuing to pump in and out of her, quickening each motion.


    "Ah... yes... Ah..." Lena let out a small moan each time he entered her again.


    She can feel his hard rod growing bigger inside her and going in deeper each time. Her mind was filled with the pleasures he was giving her. She could not even feel the pain that she felt the first time anymore.


    "Lena..."


    "Mhm...ah"


    "Ah... Can I?" Kris asked.


    "Yeah..." Lena grabbed his shoulder tightly and kissed him.


    He pushed her back against the glass wall and increased his thrusts again. A quick in and out. Encaving his entire rod deep inside her and then pulling out, just far enough to thrust back inside.


    They stopped kissing as Kris does one final kick inside and they both succumb to their climax. Lena''s body went weak as she fell on him, Kris still holding her softly. After a short minute, he removed his p*nis outside of her, oozing out the white liquid he had ej*culated inside her.


    Lena unwrapped her legs around him and steadily put them both on the ground, standing herself up, but still holding Kris for support.


    Just then, a loud explosion was heard outside. Another one and again. Lights flickered in the dark elevator room.


    Before Lena could turn around to see what it was, Kris grabbed her and kissed her.


    "Happy one month."

 Chapter 273 - Happy one month. (R-18)

    The fireworks came late... they were supposed to be on time when Kris kissed her. But he guessed that it was fine like this anyways. At least it didn''t come anytime earlier.


    "You..." Lena was speechless.


    She legitly just had s*x in the damn elevator. Her hair was messy, she was a bit sweaty from the intense workout. She was topless and pantie-less. She does not know if this could be considered romantic or not... but who cares?!


    She turned around and looked at the fireworks.


    She didn''t imagine watching fireworks like this with Kris... but regardless, every memory with him is something worth remembering.


    Kris stood behind Lena and wrapped his hands around her. "Did you forget?"


    "No."


    "Mhm...." Kris bit the tip of her ears.


    Collin bugged the hell out of Kris, saying that woman remembers every single anniversary and he should never forget them or the woman will pull the worst punishments ever.


    He spent a long time thinking how they were going to spend their first month anniversary together when it was squeezed between the Shen Company event and them hanging out with the Shen family the day of the anniversary instead.


    "Tell me... what do you want, hmmm?" Kris spoke to her ears so she could hear him through the fireworks.


    Lena laughed and turned around. She wet her lips and looked at Kris seductively. "Don''t say I didn''t warn you."


    She jumped onto him and kissed him, just like how she did it the first time.


    Kris grabbed her waist and turned her around so she could see the fireworks while they go for another round in the elevator.


    He ripped her dress off. It was to difficult to properly remove it from her.


    "Hey! I bought that!" Lena protested when he threw the shredded dress to the floor.


    Kris ripped his pants off and threw it onto the ground. "And I bought that."


    He pushed her up against the elevator door this time, lifting her legs up once more before he entered her wet craving entrance.


    The fireworks were still quickly exploding as it''s finally had arrived. Lena watched the fireworks explode as Kris roughly goes in and out of her, giving her another wave of pleasure. She gripped his hair, letting out soft noises that were covered by the fireworks.


    The fireworks stopped and so did Kris. He gave Lena a sweet long kissed, while his hard rod was still embedded inside her.


    The elevator door opened and they arrived at Lena''s apartment. She did not even notice that the elevator was moving while they were doing their own thing.


    Kris lifted Lena up and walked over to the sofa. He sat his naked butt down on the long soft sofa, with Lena cradled on top of him.


    "Happy one month." Lena said to him before lifting herself up from him, then slamming her ass down again.


    Her butt slaps against Kris'' thighs as she placed her hands on his shoulders. She arched her head up to look at the ceiling as she moved on top of Kris, sliding his hard and long d*ck inside of her. Up... and down.


    Kris had one hand on her waist. The other hand grabbed her right breasts and squeezed it.


    "Ah... f*ck!" Lena screamed from the sensation as she continued to ride him.


    He then captured her hard nipple with his mouth and sucked on it. Lena stopped moving up and down, instead, she sat on him and moved her hip instead.


    She moved her hips, making sure that Kris was able to reach every part inside her. She squeezed him tightly and he moaned.


    Lena''s movement was killing him. Her walls were closing in tighter and tighter in him, every single second he stays inside of her.


    Lena looked into his eyes and could see the carnal desires from him. She stopped moving and gave him a peck on the lips. "Kris...."


    He smiled at her before flopping her back to the sofa, making her take the bottom. His body was between her widespread legs. He pulled out of her and then slammed it back in. Her sweet cry of pleasure just urged him to continue thrusting in and out of her.


    "Lena..."


    "C''mon baby...." Lena replied.


    Kris lifted her legs up so he can have better access to entering her. He can see her large breasts bounce every time he entered her.


    Lena bit her lips, trying her hardest to come too early. Her hands grabbed the ends of the sofa as her mind awaits the second wave of pleasure.


    Seeing her near her end, Kris quickened his pace and thrust in deeper inside, hitting the entrance of her womb with each thump.


    And finally, one last pushed inside. He released his warm liquid inside of her. He softly pulled it out and back in until every last drop was gone.


    Lena was breathless. Kris'' second time was way more than the first one. She could feel the excess of it escaping when he pulled out, and it sliding down her butt crack and into the sofa.


    Kris lifted Lena up and cuddled their sticky and dirty body next to each other. He gently rubbed her stomach as she caught her breath. He realized that when a woman reached their climax, they take longer to recover than a man.


    Lena was just peacefully sitting on Kris, but she could already feel his manhood building up again.


    Kris couldn''t help it. Making love to the woman you love is a wonderful feeling. Nothing he had ever imagined before and something he can never turn back on again.


    Same with Lena. She used to think that Hazel was an s*x crazy woman, but hell with it... Lena''s on that list too.


    Lena glanced at the clock. It wasn''t that late yet... they can go for a few more rounds. Sleep for like two hours and be up to meet with her family on time.


    She put her hand around Kris'' warm rod and teased it. Making sure it was hard and ready to pound her senseless again.


    After a few minutes, she stopped. She stood up from Kris. Lena bent over, placing her hand on the glass coffee table, and lifted her butt towards Kris.


    "I want it like this." Lena spoke.


    Kris smiled. ''Just like that first day.''


    He stood up, nested his hard rod against her entrance. The first time they had their heavy make-out session, he only played outside her entrance. It''s only been a short amount of time, but they had progressed so far.


    He poked his rod at her entrance, teasing it slowly.


    "Ah... Kris!" Lena shouted at him.


    He smiled but Lena could not see him. He bent forward, tilting Lena head to him for a kiss. After that, he parted his lips from hers, leaving their saliva from their messy kiss drip to the glass table.


    He stood up straight, grabbed her thighs and slammed his d*ck inside of her.


    "Ah!!" As much as they have done this... it''s always different each time.


    And they had never done it this way before so Kris was reaching inside of her in a new sensational.


    Kris pushed in and out of her. However, he noticed that this time, Lena covered her mouth instead of her usual cries of pleasure. It only tempted him to go more rough on her.


    Lena covered her moans because she was enjoying this back position the most so far. She remembered that Hazel told her back position was called something dog... Lena felt like she was a crazy animal.


    After a while, Lena was still being stubborn about making a sound. Kris, on the other hand, was finding this s*x challenge thrilling. He used one of his hands and started to rub her cl*toris. Rubbing her soft spot, Lena finally let out a small moan.


    "Kris...."


    Kris ignored her plea and continued to make her feel good.


    "Ah.. Kris... stop it..."


    At her request, Kris stopped. He bent forward again and bit Lena''s ear. "I want to hear your voice."


    "I... I might lose my voice tomorrow. I am saving it."


    "Your family is going golfing.... you don''t need to speak."


    "....."


    Kris started moving again and Lena put both of her hands on the glass table. She gave up.


    "Ahhhhhhh... I hate you that I love you so mucchhhh....ahhh f*ck!!!"


    "I love you too..."


    "Mhmmmnnnn!"


    Kris smiled at his triumph and held her thighs again. He slowly pulled out of her, then thrust in quick. Making a slow pumping motion before getting back to where they were before he stopped.


    When he was feeling his end.... he lifted Lena up, grabbed her legs into the air. He dumped everything inside of her.


    They sat on the sofa for a while, just staring at the night sky. The living room was a mess. Lena was still wearing one pair of heels. Their clothes were scattered from the elevator to the living room. But regardless their night did not end there.


    "Again?" Lena said.


    "Are you sure? I don''t want you to be too tired for tomorrow."


    "We''re going golfing... you just stand and hit a ball."


    "....."


    Lena stood up and dragged Kris to the bedroom. She slammed the door shut and tackled the man to her bed.

 Chapter 274 - "How can I deny my babys request?"

    Lena does not know when they both fell asleep, but the annoying alarm from her alarm clocked woked her up. The alarm clock was connected with her phone, so even if her phone was lost somewhere in the mess last night, the alarm clock still went off.


    Lena grabbed the alarm clocked and tossed it to the floor. However, she didn''t jam it hard enough, it was still going off.


    "I''ll get it." Kris got off the bed and turned off the alarm.


    "...." Lena didn''t open her eyes and stayed in bed.


    "Don''t start whining now, I am not the one who kept going last night." Kris tugged the blanket off of Lena, exposing her naked body.


    She cuddled in her body when she felt the coldness. She opened her eyes and glared at Kris. Kris smiled at her lazy body. He walked over to the side of the bed and picked Lena up.


    "Ah!" She screeched.


    "We only have an hour to get ready." Kris carried her to the bathroom and straight to the shower.


    He turned on the water, cold at first to wake Lena up then warmer. What he did not expect was that Lena was not tired at all..... the shower went from a quick one to a long one.


    When they got out, they only had 10 minutes to get dressed up and drive to go meet the Shen family.


    "How fast can you drive?" Lena asked Kris as she quickly put on her clothes.


    "How fast can you put on your make-up?"


    "I can do that in the car."


    "I can drive as fast as I drove you crazy."


    "Shut up." Lena threw a piece of clothing at Kris.


    "I am not the one who made us late."


    Kris and Lena put on some casual clothes. Lena had already packed their bag for the trip the days beforehand. She grabbed her make-up bag and they both exited the room.


    At first glance, Lena was shocked. Everything looked nicer in the dark... but with the morning light emitting from the window... wow, they totally trashed the living room.


    She looked at Kris with wide eyes. He just smiled back at her. After all, she was the wild one.


    "Can you call my phone?" Lena asked as she searched for her phone through the mess of the clothes, paper tossed on the ground and fallen over items.


    "It''s in the elevator."


    Lena walked over to the elevator and opened it. And as Kris said, her bag was right there, on the ground. Her dirty undergarments were on top of it.


    She removed it and took out her phone. She only needs her phone and wallet.


    "I think we should take the normal elevator." Lena suggested.


    "Why? I think this one is working fine."


    "Nope, we are definitely taking the normal one."


    Lena was not going to let the small chance of someone peeking into the elevator and see exactly how erotically messy it was.


    She grabbed her shoes and walked barefoot out to the normal elevators with Kris right behind her. When they entered the elevator, Lena put on her shoes.


    When they got to the parking lot, they drove one of Kris'' car. Kris drove as Lena did her make-up in the car. She also made sure to cover up all the red marks that Kris left on her.


    When she was done, she put on the music and listened to it as Kris drove. The trip was originally just one day, Sunday, but her grandparents wanted it to be longer so it was two days family vacation.


    Kris didn''t expect the change too, but he was able to take the day off from work. After all, his mother was practically auctioning him away to the Shen family.


    He also knew that Lena and he needed a good time to relax before they start tackling the ugly stuff in their life. There are some pesty little pests that both of them needed to get rid of.


    "You can take a small nap. It''ll be a while before we get there." Kris told Lena.


    "I don''t want to fall asleep on you." Lena replied but she yawned.


    "I think I rather have you asleep than you starting to sing."


    "HUH!" Lena gasped. "Are you saying you don''t like my singing?"


    "...." Kris cleared his throat. "I thought you said you wanted to preserve your voice. Guess I should work harder to make you lose that voice, ey? We still haven''t done it in the car right? And I am a very fast driver."


    "I am just joking, I am sleeping. I choose to sleep!" Lena smiled. She moved a bit closer to Kris, gave him a peck on the cheeks, and closed her eyes.


    It didn''t take long for her to fall asleep in the car. Kris turned on the heater to make sure Lena was warm and comfortable. He lowered the music and drove carefully.


    He didn''t wake her up until he parked the car at the location. Lena got a good half our of napping. Lena rubbed her eyes and slowly got out of the car. She looked around the area and was confused.


    "This isn''t the correct place." Lena spoke.


    "About that...."


    But before Kris could tell Lena, the thundering pounding of 6 little feet roared.


    "MOMMYYYYYY!!!"


    The triplets ran over to hug Lena.


    "You''re late!" Jonah shouted.


    "Hey..." Lena greeted them. She spotted Kevin coming out of the wooden building too. "Kevin! I thought the fam agreed on golfing?"


    "Huh?" Kevin walked over. "Yeah... but grandpa changed his mind. He said he wanted to ride horses with his boys. We told Kris that last night at the party."


    Lena turned around and glared at Kris. Kris just shook it off.


    "What? I did tell you that there was a change of plans." Kris defended himself.


    "When?!" Lena continued to give him the angry stare.


    "Last night."


    "When last night?"


    "You really want me to tell you exactly when last night... like right now... in front of three little underage kids." Kris used the triplets as a shield.


    But he did really mentioned it to her... during one of their multiple sessions yesterday. And, she even replied with a "yes" so he thought that was good enought to confirmed that she heard it.


    Kevin looked at Lena and then at Kris... then back at Lena. He could feel the intense atmosphere.


    "Um... Hey, TJ, why don''t we go pick out your horses?" Kevin spoke to the triplets. TJ was a short version of calling the triplets, T for a triple, and J since they all have names that start with J.


    Kevin quickly hustled the little children back inside the building. When they all entered the building, Lena looked back at Kris. He was casually taking out their bag of stuff.


    "Are you mad at me?" Kris asked.


    "Why didn''t you tell me earlier?" Lena looked at her crotch. Is she really going to sit on a horse all day after all the crotch exercise she did yesterday?


    "A few times. I even suggested taking an early break because we were going to be doing this today. But you said...." Kris walked up close to Lena and whispered to her ears. "Again, baby." Imitating her sweet voice back at her.


    He stepped back and looked at Lena''s blushed face. "How can I deny my baby''s request?"


    "...."


    "You can just ride with me, princess sitting position."


    "...."


    "Or we can ride a carriage like them." Kris pointed at Lena''s grandparents and waved at them.


    They smiled and waved back at Kris and Lena. Of course, Grandpa Shen wanted to ride horses with his sons... but with his old age, he ended up sitting in a horse carriage with his wife and watching the young men ride horses instead.


    "C''mon, let''s go in before everyone thinks that I kidnapped you." Kris held Lena''s hand and the other hand held their bag.

 Chapter 275 - Fishy dream

    Lena was not mad at Kris. She guessed that this was karma for her highly intense sexual desires. Luckily though, in the end, she didn''t spend a lot of time horse riding. The men did their own races, everyone losing to Kris, obviously, while the woman just drank some tea and watched the men ride around.


    "I had a dream." Grandma Shen spoke first. "In my dream, we were fishing. My young self with my husband. And in that dream, we caught a big fish. But we let it go. But the fish didn''t go when we release it, instead, it stayed and swam around our boat in circles."


    Lena continued to drink her tea but then she realized that her grandmother and mother was looking at her. She quietly placed down her cup of tea and looked at them.


    "What?" She asked.


    "Fish dreams usually mean that you''re pregnant or someone close to you is."


    "I am not pregnant!" Lena claimed.


    She looked down on her stomach and touched it. She couldn''t be... she just had her first intercourse a little over a week ago. And she''s still on her birth controls... she couldn''t be..., right? How early does one know if they are pregnant or not?


    "Mother must have had a dream about me." Aunt Ma spoke.


    Everyone''s eye widened and looked at her.


    "I am 5 weeks pregnant. We weren''t going to tell everyone yet until we find out the gender."


    "Aiya! Is that why you were not drinking yesterday. Sister, congratulations!" Shen Milli smiled.


    "That''s great news! I hope it is a girl." Grandma Shen replied.


    "When are you going to find out about the gender?" Lena asked.


    "Well, it has been a busy week and with the family gathering too, we didn''t find the right time yet. We were going to visit the hospital after we go back home."


    "That''s good!" Grandma Shen was happy.


    Shen Milli was also happy. She was not able to have a big family, but she was glad that Shen Yue (Aunt Ma) was able to have a big family. She was still young to have one or two more children.


    "Don''t tell Shen Ma yet, he wanted it to be a surprise for everyone." Aunt Ma smiled.


    "The kids will be very happy to have a younger sibling." Lena added.


    "I hope the triplets will be better behaved knowing that they will be older brothers."


    Everyone laughed.


    "Lena... when are you going to get married and start your own family. I married your uncle when I was around your age and only got lucky with two pregnancies. The triplets just made it a big number."


    "I... maybe when I find what I want to do first."


    "You''re stepping down from LUX after the partnership release, are you not?"


    "Yes. I was only helping my mother manage it for a while. There are better candidates to be president of the company."


    "You''re marrying Kris Li, anyways. You can follow your dreams instead of following your man''s dream this time." Aunt Ma said, referring to how Lena chased Andy to business school instead of following her passion.


    "Yeah."


    The women talked more about clothes and fashion before it was time for dinner.


    Lena had considered following her passion after leaving LUX. The original Lena had just really dreamed of being an amazing wife and stay at home mother. However, Lena... Shen Qian, pursued her major in graphic designs and arts.


    Shen Qian was stuck doing web and project designs because it was a good-paying job. Well, at least before Erik fired her.... But her young self really wanted to pursue a career in graphic novels.


    After dinner, everyone went to the springs. The area not only has a large natural grass field for the horses but a good part of the area had natural springs. The men went to their own area while the women stayed separated from them.


    Although Lena and Kris did not spend much time together, they both enjoyed the nice little vacation. Kris had a good time with the Shen family. Of course, grandpa made sure to remember his name correctly this time and never stopped to remind Kris when the wedding date will be.


    Shen Mao was saying he wanted a small wedding but Shen Ma suggested a big wedding. Shen Mo, on the other hand, was mostly silent.


    Kris felt that he got along well with almost everyone... but there was just something about Shen Mo.


    Everyone had left the water early. Kris left too but he came back after seeing that Shen Mo was still there.


    "I thought you would be gone already. We''ve had stole you for the whole day, you must be missing Lena." Shen Mo spoke as Kris got back into the water.


    "I miss her every second I am away from her, but it''s not every day that I get to spend time with the other people she cherishes."


    "Hmmm..." Shen Mo nodded. A good reply indeed.


    There was a long silence as both of them sat in the water.


    "I feel that you don''t like me." Kris bluntly asked.


    Shen Mo opened his eyes and looked at Kris. He smiled. "I don''t like your family."


    "I don''t too."


    "Good. It should stay that way."


    "Why do you not like my family?"


    "Some things are best if you just don''t know. Like everyone else here... they can look at you and be happy with you. Every time I look at you... I see your father and your grandfather. But I don''t know you. Are you your father? or your grandfather? I should not let a parent''s sin be their child''s."


    Shen Mo got up from the water. "So I am not exactly disliking you but I am just not as accepting as the others. But don''t worry, if Lena truly loves you, then there is no need for me to worry. I only hope you truly love her back."


    Shen Mo started walking out but he stopped. He looked back at Kris. "There is one thing though..."


    Kris looked at him.


    "Be wary of the Zhao family. A Li can never trust a Zhao." And with that, Shen Mo left Kris alone in the water.


    ''Zhao...?'' Kris try to process the words that Shen Mo spoke. There had always been tension between the Zhao and Li family... each family had always been wary of each other.


    ''Hugh....'' Kris looked up to the night sky. But, He can always trust Hugh.


    Shen Mo said that it was better for Kris not to know... but Kris felt like he needed to know. What is his parent''s sin? His family had done many horrible things... he included.... does any of them have to do with the Shen family?


    Kris got up from the water and walked out. He put on his robe and walked to his room. Everyone mostly had separated room. When he opened his door, he immediately spot Lena lying on his bed, texting on her phone.


    "Oh, you''re finally back."


    "How did you get in?" Kris asked as he closed and locked the door.


    "Through the window."


    "...." This was the fifth floor. And there is no balcony.... did Lena really come through the window?


    "Naw... I picked the lock on the door."


    "You''ve been watching too many movies." Kris took off his robe and put on his sleeping clothes. He crawled into bed with Lena. "You''re not sleeping here right?"


    "No... my mom will probably come to check on me later." Lena smiled and gave Kris a kiss. "I just wanted to see you before I sleep tonight."

 Chapter 276 - The first chapter.

    Lena put down her phone and cuddle in with Kris.


    "How was your day?" Lena asked him.


    "Good. Your family is not as tough as my family."


    "I know."


    Kris looked down at Lena who had her eyes closed and was happily contented next to him. He hoped that he can always make her happy like this.


    "Lena..?"


    "Hmm?"


    "Is there... any enemies of the Shen family? Or someone who would want to harm your family?"


    Lena opened her eyes and turned her body over. Her stomach was on the bed and her elbows were holding her upper body up.


    "Why? So you can go take care of them for me?" Lena smiled.


    "Maybe."


    "Hm.... not really. I mean our worst enemy was you, but then we''re dating so you''re off the list. Business enemies are normal... not anyone particular that wants to harm us. I mean there was that thing with the disease awhile back. But that was taken care of. So, no?"


    Kris looked at Lena sternly. "Are you sure?"


    Lena looked back at Kris and tried to read him. "Why?"


    "I want to eliminate as many surprises as I can. You should always be safe and happy." Kris placed a hand on Lena''s cheek and caressed it.


    "There is one thing..." Lena continued. She grabbed his hand that was touching her cheek and held it.


    "What is it?"


    "Well, I haven''t got a chance to look more into it and I don''t really know if I should or not. It''s about my mother''s first pregnancy."


    Kris carefully listened to her.


    "The day I went with your mother to visit... her friend, she said a few things that made me wonder."


    "About?" Kris was curious.


    "My mother lost her baby girl before she was born. The doctor said it was a natural death... but... what if it wasn''t? A healthy baby dying seems odd enough to question it. The old lady said that some people don''t want the baby to be born. I started thinking about it... but if someone wanted to harm my mother or her children, then wouldn''t I had been dead too?" Lena shrugged. "I don''t really know."


    "Would you want to know?"


    "Of course. If someone is really out there trying to harm my family, then I would want to know. It''s just been a long time now... And with us now... we still have to get rid of some nasty pests."


    Kris laughed. "Yes... yes we do."


    "Are you sure you can go through with it?" Lena confirmed.


    "No. But it is a small sacrifice for the better of the future."


    "Alright then... I don''t want to come home with you pounding on me all night long." Lena teased him.


    "Or..." Kris flopped over so he was on top of Lena. "I can start now." He lowered his forehead just so it touched Lena''s.


    "I didn''t come here for that." Lena pushed him off me and he rolled back to his side of the bed.


    Lena gently got up. "Close your eyes." She said.


    "Why?"


    "I still have to give you your anniversary gift."


    Kris looked at her and still closed his eyes. Lena walked over to the bag she also brought along with her. She opened the bag and took out what seems like a book.


    Lena walked back to the bed. "Ok, you can open your eyes now."


    Kris opened his eyes slowly. He was expecting Lena to be naked but he guessed wrong.


    "Um... a book...."


    "Don''t worry. It''s a picture book. I won''t force my man who never finished school." Lena smirked.


    Kris rolled his eyes and then opened the book. As he flipped through the book, a small smile formed from his lips.


    "You drew this?"


    "Yeah." Lena sat closer to Kris, leaning in her head to his shoulder. "The first chapter of our story."


    Kris did not prepare anything physical for Lena. He just wanted their first month to be memorable. He knew that Lena was not a materialistic woman. He flipped through the book again. It was short but it had enough pictures drawn just for him to recall all their events together.


    There were only ten pages, no dialogue, but very well drawn. The cartoon version of him and Lena was very cute.


    He didn''t know Lena had such a talent for drawing. He guessed there are still so many things he needed to learn about her. He slightly turned his head and gave her a kiss on her forehead.


    Lena stayed with Kris for only another half an hour before going back to her room. As excepted, her mother did come to check on her later that night. Of course, she felt like a love-struck teenager texting Kris all night until she fell asleep on him.


    The next day, the family went for a long hike. Of course, the old couple continued to ride the horse carriage while the rest of everyone walked and enjoyed their day with nature.


    After the hike, it was a dinner where all the men had to cook for the woman. Let''s just say that no one died from the dinner. It was just a good time to laugh and be together.


    After dinner, everyone went back to the Shen mansion to prepare for their departure back to City Z the next morning. Because it was Lena''s last night with her family, she stayed at the Shen mansion while Kris drove back to the penthouse.


    Kris would not be seeing Lena as much since both of them would be working and Lena have her release with LUX soon. Apart from that, they both needed to separate for a bit. They needed to do some pest control.


    The next morning, Lena had planned to go to the office late so she can send her family off. However, there was an unexpected problem and she had to rush back to the office early in the morning.


    Lena quickly rushed to SHYNE. When she arrived, everyone was already in the meeting room, waiting for her to arrive.


    Diane had already given a quick summary of the events before she arrived. Everyone was very anxious.


    Lena took a quick look around the room before going up to the end of the table, taking her seat.


    "How did this happen??" Lena demanded answered.


    "..." Everyone was struggling where to start.


    "It''s my fault," Melissa spoke out first. "I should have been using the company''s secure line of the database to store my files."


    Melissa was one of the main designers of SHYNE. She had worked in the company for a long time.


    "Yes, you should have."


    "I will take full responsibility. I will submit my letter of resignation by the afternoon."


    "Resignation?" Lena smile. "Over such small matters?"


    ''Small matters?!'' Everyone eyes widened at Lena''s response. One of their competitors in the market just released 1/3rd of their designs for the SHYNE x LUX collaboration jewelry set. Their release date is in a week, and it had taken them more than a month to prepare for this release.


    Not only does this jeopardize their contract with LUX but this will also put a heavy fall back for the company. How is it that their boss is not even one percent concerned?!

 Chapter 277 - Never compete with the original

    "We will continue with the release as scheduled, including the designs that got leaked." Lena addressed.


    "??" Everyone was stunned. Why would Lena want to release the design that was already released?


    "Becuase the designs are originally ours." Kiera read Lena''s objective.


    Kiera was one of the head designers of SHYNE. She is also the person that Shen Milli wanted to take over SHYNE. Lena had been working with Kiera for months now too since she had been covering the empty spot.


    "Yes." Lena replied. "Care to further explain for our colleagues, Kiera?"


    "Every single design of SHYNE is made uniquely to match not only the minerals from the Shen Milli, but also designed with history. And specifically for this collaboration with LUX, the models will be wearing fashion from Zhao Lin''s fashion line. So the designed are already made to match the fashion trend and the material used. Even if the designs were stolen, they will never compete with the original."


    Everyone nodded their heads. They understood the situation now. Even if the designs were stolen and already released, it can''t be compared to the original designs. The designs were stolen, but not the idea behind it nor the material and craftsmanship.


    "Kiera and Mellissa, you will go speak with Zhao Lin and I will speak with LUX." Lena spoke. "But not only that, there will be precautionary steps that everyone needs to take from now on."


    Lena continued to address some more information on the meeting before it was adjourned. By now, whoever the enemy really was, they would already leak the information to their partners and the media. SHYNE would need to make sure that their partners are aware of the situation.


    When Lena went back to her office, she immediately hosted a conference call with LUX.


    "Hello, Mrs. Reynolds." Lena greeted the woman from the video call.


    "Likewise, Miss. Shen."


    In the call, Lena could see that there were other people in the room with Mrs. Reynolds. They must be the team that is currently working with her for the collaboration.


    "I hope you have good news for us." Mrs. Reynolds spoke.


    "Of course." Lena smiled. "Regarding the situation with the leak, LUX does not need to worry about it at all. There will be no delay in the release date and production. There may be some media issues, but that''s just how gossips love to spread. We can actually use this drama to promote the release."


    "I know Miss. Shen is a capable woman. However, I am still concern about the leak."


    "About that. It is true that the designer used a non-SHYNE network to save the file, however, the network was through LUX."


    "You''re saying...."


    "That''s right. If the leak was sabotaged, it was not done through our system but yours."


    Mrs. Reynolds looked at her co-workers. Then, she looked back at the screen. "I will have out IT team look into it."


    "Also, there is a high chance that the other company will issue a legal pursuit after the release. SHYNE''s legal team will be ready by then to make sure we win the case."


    "A lawsuit to SHYNE is a lawsuit against LUX too. I can send our best legal team to China."


    "Thank you." Lena took the offer.


    Lena discussed more things with LUX before the meeting ended. Lena sighed and sat down on her desk chair. She massaged her temples.


    Diane entered the office a bunch of paperwork.


    Lena glanced at her cell phone and looked at her text messages. There was a message from Gary and a few from Kris.


    Lena stood up from her chair, turned around to look out the windows as she gave Kris a call.


    He immediately picked up after the first ring.


    "Hey." Lena spoke first.


    "Everything alright? I heard the news." Kris asked.


    "Yep. This actually is a good opportunity for us."


    "Is there anything I can help you with?"


    Lena did not reply immediately as she thought about his offer. "No. Just make sure your punching bag isn''t Keso."


    "...." Kris rolled his eyes. "Don''t do anything that will make me require a punching bag."


    Lena laughed. "No promises." And then she hung up the call.


    When she turned around, Diane was patiently waiting for her. Diane gave her a progress report on Madam Zhao''s response. Lena thanked her and then she was alone again in her office.


    She looked at the pile of paperwork and quickly got to work.


    Lena was busy all day. She made sure to take her lunch break but continued to work overtime like the rest of the workers. There was no time to lose when they are getting attacked.


    Kris, on the other hand, focused on his own work. If Lena said she didn''t need his help, then he would not interfere with her business. After all, he knew very well that his woman can handle her own problems.


    Lena continued to work overtime, staying at a nearby hotel instead of going home. Since she was not home, Kris took the time to go and spend time with his friends. Collin was getting married and a married man''s life was different.


    They wouldn''t be able to go out to drink as often and they would not be able to bully Collin much anymore.


    A week quickly flew by and the release for SHYNE x LUX was in a few days.


    Lena had not seen Kris for a week and she had been to busy to make time to chat with Gary. She knew that Gary wanted to talk to her about his father, but the time was just not right at the moment.


    But today was the day, and Lena needed to stay on her plan if she wanted everything to pan out.


    It was lunchtime when Lena called the man for the fourth time today. Luckily, he finally picked up.


    "LENA!"


    "How did you know it was me?" Lena replied.


    "...." Tyler dare not say he saved her personal phone awhile back when he stole it from Sammy. "Who would call me 4 times a day without knowing that I don''t wake up until noon."


    "No wonder you''re getting ousted as the next CEO for your father''s company."


    "Hey!" Tyler shouted. "Why would you be calling me on such a lovely afternoon anyways, Miss. Shen."


    "I need a favor." Lena got straight to the point.


    "Heh... favor? From me? Why are you not calling your amazing boyfriend?"


    "If I needed my boyfriend for everything, then why does everyone else need to exist?"


    "...." Creepy. But he likes it!


    "I was hoping you can lend me Milo Hu."


    "Milo?"


    "Yes. You must have heard about SHYNE''s situation. I want the best lawyer to be defending me."


    "They have not event officially send you a lawsuit yet, why are you already preparing your legal team?"


    "Becuase even if they don''t send me one, I will send them one. So.. Milo, yes or not?"


    "No. You already broke my heart a few times. Maybe if we go on a dinner date, I''ll reconsider." After that response, Tyler hung up the call.


    However, he continued to stare at the phone, hoping Lena would give him a call back. They said he needed to play hard right? This is considered playing it hard right? AHHH! But why isn''t she calling back?


    It has been 20 minutes since he hung up the call. ''Call me back, please!!! I''ll give Milo to you for free.....'' He stared at the phone, still half-naked in bed.

 Chapter 278 - Secret Affair

    In the end, Tyler stayed in bed playing mobile games on his phone. He was up late last night working on a few things and today was his day off. After his brother have been trying so hard to climb up in ranks, Tyler had been laid back.


    He was in the middle of a game when his doorbell rung. He ignored it until it got spammed. He grunted, tossed away his phone, and got up from the bed.


    He walked over to the door and looked out the peephole.


    Tyler immediately stepped back in shock and then looked into the peephole one more time.


    "I know you''re there. I can hear your footsteps." Lena shouted.


    Tyler rubbed his eyes and then looked at the peephole for the third time. He saw Lena outside his room, holding a bag of what looked like food.


    He was just lying about the dinner date... but she''s here not and he won''t let that chance go.


    He looked pushed his hair back, put his hand over his mouth and breathed.


    ''Ugh...'' His breath smells. He didn''t even brush his teeth yet. And he''s shirtless.


    "Uh... one minute okay?" Tyler yelled out.


    Lena just rolled his eyes. ''Patience Lena... patience.''


    One minute turned into 5 minutes before the door was finally open. Lena looked at Tyler. His hair was combed but he was still shirtless.


    "Do you go to dinner dates shirtless?" Lena looked at him confusingly.


    "I end up shirtless at dinner dates."


    "...." Lena walked in and put the food down on the table. "One time only. It''s not a date. And I get to keep Mr. Hu until I say I don''t need him anymore."


    "Ok." Tyler immediately. He already said he would give him to her for free but she is here now, so that would just be a plus.


    He blushed slightly looking at Lena set the table. She said it was not a date... but she event for some candles. "You look pretty...."


    Lena stopped setting the table and looked at the foolishly in love boy. "By the way, I was never here. And if Kris hears a word about this, I am definitely not going to look pretty."


    Tyler nodded. "What would you do exactly... if Kris finds out?"


    "You are never going to have kids." Lena threatened him.


    "What if he hurt you?" Tyler said out of concern. Tyler knew that Kris was an impulsive and dangerous man. Sure he might get beat up or possibly killed by Kris if he found out that Tyler was doing things with Lena... But he can handle a man like Kris. However, Lena can''t.


    "Kris? He had never h----" Lena stopped. She was going to say ''He had never hurt me before...'' But that wasn''t true. Their relationship didn''t exactly start out pretty and smooth. She cleared her throat. "He will never hurt me."


    Tyler walked over to the table and sat on the chair. Lena finished opening the take out food she got and sat on the chair opposite of him. She made sure to also light the candles. Although it was not dark, the candle was just for decoration.


    "Why are you even dating him?" Tyler asked, diving down to eat the food first.


    "Hmmm? Why? Should I be dating you instead?" Lena ate too.


    "You''ll only be hurt if you are with him. Kris is not a good man." Tyler expressed his opinion. "And I am not saying this just because I like you, I just think that no woman deserves a man like him. He''s not one who can truly love someone. He''s too dangerous."


    "So am I." Lena glanced at Tyler and then continue eating.


    "No, you''re a good person."


    "And that''s why I am not dating you. You only see me because you think I am good. What happens when I am not good? If I am good, why am I sneaking around eating lunch with you for a favor behind my boyfriend''s back?"


    "...."


    "And... I like dangerous. It''s so sexy." Lena grabbed the napkin and wiped her mouth.


    Tyler continued to eat as he stared at Lena. Why did he have to like a woman who was with someone else?


    "I''ll keep trying until you get married," Tyler announced. "You''re not truly his until you are legally married. I won''t chase after a married woman. Just you wait, you''ll see that I am comparable to Kris, and maybe even better. I just haven''t been motivated yet, but you... you motivate me."


    Lena was the first woman to ever moved his heart. She was blunt, stubborn, cute, and someone who does things the way she likes it. Lena is the one... there is just something so strong and attractive about her. He was not going to let her go without a fight.


    "I see." Lena smiled. "Good luck."


    "By the way.... how did you even find me?" Tyler asked. He was not staying at the same hotel as last time. And first of all, how did Lena even know he was in City A today?


    "I have my ways, and I have my secrets."


    Tyler did not know if he should be happy that she worked so hard just to find him... or be concerned.


    His thought was interrupted when Lena''s phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID and his smile dropped. It as Kris.


    Lena quickly picked up the call.


    "Hey babe." She answered.


    "What are you doing?"


    "Work."


    "Where are you?"


    "Out. Working."


    "..." There was a slight pause before Kris replied back. "Come to the company when you are done."


    "Why?"


    "Just come." Kris sternly replied.


    Before Lena could talk back, she heard Becca''s voice.


    "Kris, the meeting will be starting soon," Becca spoke and Kris nodded.


    "Is that Becca?" Lena asked. "Why is she there?"


    "Work." Kris replied. "Make sure you come later."


    After that, Kris hung up the call. Lena looked at her phone and then sat back down on the dinner table.


    "Becca." Tyler said the name. "Guess he is also with a woman."


    "It''s not like that." Lena replied.


    "I heard she''s staying at the Li Mansion."


    "So what."


    "If you were my woman... I wouldn''t let any other woman near me. Just saying."


    "I told you, it''s not like that, between her and Kris."


    "They grew up together though. A bond like that... anything can happen. There are rumors that Kris is also more... open to females since you too. Have you ever considered that he is just using you?"


    "..." Lena glared at him. "Shut up and keep eating."


    While Lena was finished up her dreadful bribe to get a hold of Milo Hu, Kris was not in a good mood.


    He stared at the photographs that were in front of him. It was a few pictures of Lena out picking up food and candles. And then she at Tyler''s hotel room, him without a shirt on. What bothered him the most was how casually she went inside his home.


    "How did you get these?" Kris asked Becca.


    "It was sent by a co-worker. He was going to see Tyler about some stuff but turned back when he saw this. He sent it to me... knowing that I was close to you." Becca lied. It wasn''t a co-worker. SHe had Lena followed, just waiting for her to make a mistake so she can put that woman down.


    "WHere is Lena now?" Kris asked Collin.


    "..." Collin did not want to tell Kris where Lena was at the moment.


    "Secretary Collin, did you not hear me?!"


    "Miss. Shen''s phone signal is at Marigold Hotel."


    Kris was furious. He swiped away the photographs that were in on his desk. They flew to the ground along with other important paperwork.


    Becca''s heart was smiling but her face kept her composure. "I am sure Le-- I mean the lady boss has a reason to see Tyler."


    "Call her again." Kris told Collin. "I want her in my office by the time the meeting is over."


    Kris walked out of his office, slamming the doors behind him. Becca followed him out as Collin stayed behind. He picked up the papers and photographs on the floor.


    ''Is this... Lena''s and Kris first arguement?'' Collin shuddered as he called Lena again.

 Chapter 279 - A couples fallout

    Lena rushed back to the Li company after Tyler gave her Milo''s contact and address.


    It was Collin who greeted her when she arrived at the top floor. Collin said the meeting will end soon but Lena waited and waited in the office. It wasn''t until two hours later that Kris finally entered the room.


    Kris walked into the room as he was talking with Becca.


    "I want the final paperwork sent to me by early tomorrow." Kris spoke.


    "Yes, CEO Li."


    "And I want to personally visit the Casino the day after."


    Becca nodded.


    "Wednesday?" Lena stood up from the desk chair.


    Kris finally glanced over and spotted Lena in the room.


    "Didn''t you promise already to be at the SHYNE release event with me?" Lena pointed out.


    "I did?"


    "It was just yesterday night. You said you have booked that date for a few weeks now just to attend the event." Lena was a bit annoyed and it showed in her tone.


    Kris turned to Becca. "Is it possible to reschedule?"


    Becca shook her head. "Mr. Huang''s schedule is only open on Wednesday. He is going overseas the day after and his schedule is booked until the Casino''s grand opening."


    "It''s fine." Lena spoke. "Work is work. You had this project way before we dated."


    "Are you sure?" Kris asked.


    Lena nodded, but she looked like she somewhat hopped Kris would still attend the event with her.


    "Alright then, book it Becca."


    "Very well then." Becca smiled. "Will you still have dinner with Auntie Li tonight? Or since Miss. Shen is here now, you will have dinner with her instead?"


    "Dinner?" Lena questioned Kris in a dark tone.


    Kris walked over and sat on his chair that Lena just stood up from. "Yes. I''ll be going back to the mansion to have dinner with my mother."


    "Should I go too?"


    "No. Seems like you have very busy with work lately. You should go home and rest early."


    Lena looked at Kris. "Ok.... Will you be home tonight?"


    "I don''t know. Depends."


    "What''s wrong with you?" Lena bluntly asked Kris.


    "What''s wrong with you?" Kris repeated back.


    Lena furiously sat on the desk, ignoring that Becca and Collin was still in the room.


    "Is this about lunch?"


    "What about lunch?"


    "Don''t act stupid with me. I had lunch with Tyler Huang, so what? I needed something from him so I offered him lunch."


    "At his hotel room?" Kris raised his voice slightly.


    "AHa, you were stalking me. Don''t you trust me? If I said it was for work then it''s work. End of story."


    "I do. That''s why I am not even mad at you."


    "You are mad at me."


    "Does it look like I want to smack your head on my desk right now? I think I am very calm."


    Collin swallowed his fear. It does look like Kris wanted to smack someone''s head to his desk right now.


    "Fine!" Lena pointed at Becca. "Then why is she here?"


    "You should know very well she is work for the Huang. She''s here for work."


    "She looks like your secretary. Doing a job that Collin should be doing instead." Lena added.


    "Collin is busy with his wedding preparations. And besides, a woman can be my secretary. Don''t you trust me?" Kris used Lena''s word back at her.


    "I am leaving." Lena flung hair and started walking out. "before I smack your head on your desk."


    Lena slammed the office door hut before leaving. The workers all stared at the door... somehow the pity how much the door had been slammed today. They feel like they were not going to have a very good time for the next few days.


    Once Lena left, there was a small silence in Kris'' office.


    "Are you just going to let her leave like that?" Becca spoke first. "A man should chase after his woman."


    "She''ll cool off." Kris shrugged it off and continued to work. "You should get going anyways. Don''t let Mr. Huang wait for you."


    "Yes." Becca nodded and then left.


    She was original working with Tyler, but since his younger brother took over several projects, CEO Huang has placed her under the younger brother instead.


    After Becca left, Collin glared at Kris.


    Kris ignored the tense glare from his friend and continued to work.


    Collin shook his head. "When I have an argument with Stella, I buy her flowers," Collin suggested.


    "We''re not arguing. And I did nothing wrong to need to apologize to her."


    "...." Collin shook his head again. Maybe Tye can get through this stubborn head of Kris before he goes single again. "Then, I''ll be going."


    Once everyone left his office, Kris stopped pretending to be working. He stood up from his chair and looked out the window.


    "Patience, Kris....." He whispered.


    However, that only irritated him more. He gritted his teeth and immediately punched the window. There was a small crack on the window. Kris ruffled his hair and sighed. He went to his secret wine cabinet and took out a glass to drink.


    Only after a glass, he cleaned the wound on his hand. He went back to finish some paperwork before leaving for the night.


    He walked out of his office. Everyone was still working late, not leaving until Kris left first.


    "There''s a crack on the window." Kris told Collin. "I want it fixed by tomorrow."


    "Crack?" Collin was concerned. The window was a highly expensive and heavy-duty bulletproof window. How did it crack? He needed to tell Keso about it if this an issue. How can a window like that crack so easily?


    "I''ll get it fixed by the morning." Collin replied.


    "Afternoon is fine."


    "Ok."


    "I won''t be here early tomorrow." Kris spoke as he walked over to his elevator and left.


    Collin forgot to tell him to not drink too much... Instead, he quickly texted Hugh and Lay that Kris might be going for a drink tonight and they needed to make sure he doesn''t drink too much.


    Kris drove back to the Li Mansion to have dinner with his mother. Madam Li was overly excited, asking why Lena did not join him.


    Kris did not reply to any of his mother''s question and just ate the food.


    Madam Li felt like something was off so she stopped talking to Kris. Instead, she talked to Becca about her work.


    Right after dinner, Kris got up and left without another word to his mother or Becca. Madam Li looked at Becca with concern.


    "I''ll go check on him." Becca smiled and left, following Kris out.


    Kris got outside and unlocked his car.


    "Kris!" Becca yelled out to him.


    He stopped at looked at her. "Hmm?"


    "You''re not staying overnight?"


    "No."


    "Are you going back home to Lena?"


    "No."


    Becca smiled. "Your mother is worried."


    "I''ll just be out with Lay tonight."


    "Ok." Becca replied.


    If Kris was going to be with Lay, that meant that he will go out to drink. Her smile widened. When a man is too in love, he will also fall down very hard. Becca did not know it was this easy to cause a rough patch in their relationship.


    But of course, Kris never had a relationship before so he will not know how to console a woman. Her heart jumped with joy.


    =====


    Kris lied to Becca. He was not doing to go out with Lay tonight. Instead, he drove back to his penthouse.


    When he got back to his penthouse, he kicked his shoe off and walked to his room. However, he stopped once he saw that the light was on. He gently opened the door and spotted Lena sprawled out on his bed, headphones in her ear, and her eyes closed.


    He smiled. He stood by the door and just stared at the stupid woman who has no sense of anything. What if he was not him and someone bad? Lena dropped her guard too often.


    Lena did not know how long she was listening to music, but she was not getting tired at all. She rolled over the bed and took out her headphones.


    ''Maybe I need a midnight snack.'' Lena wondered. She walked over to open the door and then...


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" Lena threw her phone straight at Kris'' forehead.

 Chapter 280 - Cockroach

    Kris glared at Lena. This was not the first time Lena had done this to him. He has lost count on how many times he got abused because his woman can''t sense that someone was with her.


    "Oh my gosh... I am so sorry." Lena put her hand on Kris'' forehead and rubbed it. "Does it hurt?"


    "No..." Kris let out a small sigh.


    "When did you get home? I didn''t even hear the elevator dinged."


    "...." Of course... because you were blasting music in your ear. But Kris did not say that. "Just now."


    Lena was still rubbing his forehead until Kris grabbed her hand and held it.


    "Oh my gosh! What happened to your hands?" Lena saw that his left hand was bandaged. She looked up at Kris with an unsatisfied look. "You didn''t hurt Keso too much right? Oh no... I told you not to use Keso as a punching bag..."


    "I didn''t," Kris replied.


    "Then why did you hurt your hand? Who did you punch?"


    "Why are you here?" Kris dodged the question.


    "You said you won''t be back tonight."


    "I said, depends."


    "Well... I...." Lena doesn''t really have a good excuse as to why she is up here in his room instead... the hard bed that she disliked. "I missed you." Lena admitted.


    Kris smiled. "I miss you too." He put a hand on the back of her neck and pulled her in for a kiss. The kiss turned from a small greeting to a kiss filled with lust. After all, they had not seen each other for a long time.


    Kris only stopped when he heard Lena''s stomach grumbled. He looked down at her stomach and laughed.


    "Stop it. I had a small dinner." Lena complained.


    "Same. Should I order something for us?"


    "No." Lena bent down and picked up her phone that she threw at Kris. "I am on a diet."


    "Since when? I am pretty sure you take out order for lunch that could feed an entire army."


    Lena walked back to the bed and sat on it. "For your information, it was a good lunch. And not because the man was shirtless, but because they gave me extra shrimp and I didn''t even ask for it."


    "You lost me at shirtless," Kris replied and then he took off his tie and started unbuttoning his shirt.


    "What are you doing?"


    "Going to take a shower? Why.... what did you think I was going to do?" He smiled at Lena.


    "Nothing." Lena continued to stare at Kris as he stripped off his shirt in front of her.


    "Did you stare at him like this too?"


    "No." Lena''s eyes were still on Kris'' sturdy muscles.


    She finally blinked and regained control of her eyes. "Let me remind you Kris... it was your idea."


    "I know..." Kris was sad to admit it. He walked over and sat next to Lena. "Did it go well?"


    "Yeah. If it was me doing it, it wouldn''t take two years like Becca." Lena laughed. "All I did was bring the guy food and asked to use his bathroom. Who knew it was that easy?"


    "I didn''t think he would be so bold to be shirtless in front of you though."


    "Oh trust me, I have seen a naked man before, so shirtless....." Lena was going to say shirtless is nothing, but the room suddenly went dark and scary.


    "Naked man?" Kris felt like he was definitely impatient and angry now.


    "Did I say that?"


    "...." Kris held Lena''s chin up.


    "It was before we even dated. I didn''t cheat!"


    "How many men have you seen naked?"


    "I don''t know."


    "So much you can''t even keep track of?"


    "NO!" Lena swapped his hand away. "What kind of person keeps track of how many naked men they have seen?"


    "Was he... bigger than me?"


    Lena glared at Kris... what kind of question is that? But she didn''t reply right away, trying to recall her memory to answer Kris'' question. But suddenly, Kris collapsed his lips on hers.


    He didn''t let her breath until he was satisfied and he held her chin again. "Are you thinking about another man''s thing in front of me?"


    "I..." Lena pushed him away. "You started it!"


    Kris laughed but hugged Lena tightly to console her. "Sorry, but I am curious though."


    "It''s small...." Lena mumbled.


    "Hmm?"


    "I said it was TINY! I called it an ugly worm. Ming Zhao saw it too."


    "Ming Zhao? Did you see his too?"


    "Ew... does it look like I ask men to get naked in front of me?" Lena replied... but she did ask Ming Zhao to strip in front of her, but Kris does not need to know that. That was in the past...


    "If you asked me, I would." Kris kissed Lena'' cheek.


    "How was dinner with the cockroach and your mother?" Lena changed the topic.


    "You know what they say about cockroaches? Nasty."


    Lena closed her eyes and just relaxes on Kris as he hugged her. "It was fun arguing with you?"


    "Fun?" Kris did not have fun arguing with Lena. He felt distressed yelling and being rude to Lena. So painful that he hit the window... And here, his evil woman said she had fun. He needed to punish her. "I know what we can do that is even more fun."


    "What did you say?" Lena opened her eyes. "OH... did you hear that? I think I am really hungry, I actually should go get something to eat."


    Lena hopped herself off of Kris'' hold of her and walked toward the door. She needed to run before the tiger punished her!!!


    "Didn''t you say you were on a diet?" Kris reminded her. ''Did she think she can run away so easily? Hell no, he didn''t hit a window just for her to escape his grasp tonight.''


    "But I don''t want to starve." Lena quickened her footsteps and opened the door.


    Kris jumped her from behind. He grabbed her by the waist and carried her back to bed. He dropped her soft body to the bed and entangled his hands with hers, not letting her escape.


    "I''ll feed you." He bent down and kissed her neck.


    "I... I need to use the bathroom."


    "You just used the bathroom 10 minutes ago."


    "!!!" How long was Kris staring at her when she was listening to music. "I... I am on my period!"


    Kris stopped kissing her and let go of her hand. He looked at her.... it was indeed her week.


    "Huh..." He ruffled his hair. Patience....man.. just another week. He had not seen her for a week and ever since she has awoken this part of him, it was harder and harder to sit still with Lena.


    This was indeed the time of the month that Lena should have her period... but it seemed to be a bit late. Is it because she has been on birth controls?


    She looked at Kris who looked sad and she sighed. "Fine... just one time though." Lena gave in.


    "But you said---"


    "I lied. It''s not here yet."


    "Just one though, we both have to work early tomorrow."


    "Mhm..." Kris smiled. He hovered over Lena''s body, slowly removing her clothes. "Just once."


    Work? Aahaha.... Kris already told Collin he was not going to come to work early... of course, he planned for this.


    ''And one time only? Baby.... One time I can promise... but can you keep your words on just one time only? If you ask for more, don''t blame me if I give you more. How can I deny my baby''s requests?'' He grinned.


    Poor Lena... she could not see what Kris was scheming behind that happy smile of his.

 Chapter 281 - Not again.

    It was only 6 in the morning when Lena''s alarm went off. She groaned as she turned off the alarm, not wanting to wake up. Kris finally only stopped a few hours ago and Lena had only got a good hour of sleep.


    She turned to look at the man who sleeping beside her. She was so exhausted, they did not even clean themself before going to bed. Lena could still feel sticky down below and the stench of the room strong, a result of the countless rounds they both completed.


    Lena lifted the blankets off and got up from the bed. As she tried to walk, her legs went weak and she stumbled onto the ground.


    "F*ck..." Lena swore.


    It was the first time that her lower body had become so weak. Was it because Kris was extra rough with her last night?


    Lena blushed, remembering how much Kris was so passionate and rough with her. Men.... well, she could not blame only him, she was reluctant to stop too. She sighed.


    Kris quickly opened his eyes and sat up on the bed once he heard Lena stumbled onto the floor. He never slept one bit since they stopped last night, he only closed his eyes and listen to the soft breathing of Lena by his side.


    "Are you okay?" Kris asked.


    "I''m fine." Lena replied but she just continued to sit on the ground.


    Kris felt a bit guilty... was he too rough on her last night? He can''t deny the fact that he did go a bit animalistic on her. He looked over to the side where Lena slept and even in the dark, he spotted a small bloodstain on the bed.


    His heart stopped beating. No, not again. He did not want to hurt her again.


    He quickly got off the bed and rushed over to Lena on the floor.


    He turned on the bedside lamp and put a hand on Lena''s face.


    "Are you sure you''re okay? Where does it hurt?" He kissed Lena on the forehead. "I am so sorry... I won''t do it again. If you say once, only one time for now on. Are you still bleeding? Stay here, I will go call for the doctor."


    Lena glanced up to see Kris'' caring and panicked face. Is it bad of her that she wanted to laugh at him? She didn''t though, she was more confused.


    "I am not bleeding..." Lena replied. She was not feeling any sharp pain down below like she did the first time they did it. She glanced at the bedsheets and spot a small red stain there.


    "Oh... It''s probably just my woman thing." Lena casually replied.


    "Are you sure?" Kris tried to touch her down there but Lena slapped his hand away.


    "YES!" She snapped. "Can you... take me to the bathroom?"


    Kris quickly picked her up from the ground and carried her to the bathroom.


    Lena sat on the toilet, ready to do her morning relieving, but Kris was still at the door, staring at her like she just got shot.


    "Can you... um... call Diane and tell her I am not coming in until later?"


    Kris nodded and left.


    Lena laughed and finally closed the door so she can use the bathroom.


    After Kris was done making several phone calls, he stood outside the closed bathroom door. He heard the shower running and then stopped. If Lena is on her period... does that mean he needs to go out and buy her stuff?


    While Kris was contemplating his next steps, Lena opened the door and looked at him.


    She had a towel wrapped around her. Her hair was still wet.


    "What brand do you use? And size. I can go out and buy you some."


    "Hmm?" Lena was confused yet again at his questions but then understood what he meant a few seconds afterward.


    She smiled and pinched his nose. "You''re funny." It would be top gossip news if anyone spotted the handsome CEO going out to buy that. "You offer is very sweet, baby... but I am not forgetful and unprepared. I have one in my bag for emergencies."


    "I''ll get it for you." Kris walked over to where her bag was and dig out the item she needed.


    He walked back and handed it to Lena.


    "You should take a shower... I''ll clean up the mess." Lena suggested.


    Kris nodded. Kris entered the shower and Lena finished getting ready and then cleaned the bedroom.


    Kris stood still in the shower, letting the water run. He closed his eyes. When he was getting the item for Lena, he also saw her birth control pills. He knew that they were both not expecting to have a child soon, but each day he is with her, the more he wanted to slap a real ring on her finger and start a family with her.


    He was becoming as anxious as his mother. Kris chuckled and then sighed. Never in his life, had he imagined being as crazy in love as he is now.


    When he was done and returned to the bedroom, he saw that the bed was cleaned up and Lena was not there. He walked out to his living room to see Lena fast asleep on the couch.


    He went to get her a pillow, adjusted her body to be more comfortable on the sofa and let her sleep there. He went back to his office after he ordered some lunch for them. They should at least eat before they go back to work.


    Kris had a quick video call meeting with Keso in his office. After that was done, he noticed that Tyler texted Lena. Of course, he had Lena''s phone with him.


    Tyler texted Lena the address of Milo Hu and gave her his personal contact information. What disturbed Kris was the heart at the end of his message.


    Kris unlocked Lena''s phone and replied back with a "Thank you!" And a heart emoji back.


    Tyler: .>


    Lena: >.<


    Tyler: If you cook me something, I''ll consider removing her


    Lena: She worked for your dad, not u tho


    Tyler: Says who


    Lena: I''ll think about it <3


    Once Tyler saw the text he got from Lena, he squealed on his pillow. Why does everything Lena text back, good or bad, feel so cute. Is she flirting with him?


    Lena: Are you going to be shirtless again? <3


    Tyler kept wondering why she kept asking that... is it true that she really likes men with abs? He smiled. He lifted up his shirt and took a selfie of his abs and sent it.


    Tyler: Like this?


    Kris looked at the photo and smirked. He turned on Lena''s camera and took a picture of his abs, but he also made a middle finger in it and sent it to him.


    Lena: Get on my lvl a*shole

 Chapter 282 - Picture Battle

    "...." Tyler got caught off guard. Is this... Kris? Wait... when did Kris start texting him....? Since the beginning? Or just now? Or... What the hell?


    Tyler flexed his arm and sent a picture back with that. What he got back was another picture of what seemed to be Kris'' arm. The good news this time was that theirs was similarly the same. He grinned.


    Lena: R we going to flex bank accounts next?


    "..." Tyler knew he would lose on that... but now he was sure it was Kris texting.


    Instead, Tyler knew what to do so he can win the next round. He posed his handsome face for a selfie. Snapped and sent.


    Kris saw the photo and made an ugly face. Isn''t this what people call a selfie picture?


    Kris turned the camera and took a photo of himself. However, when he looked at it... he was.. let''s just say it was not a very good selfie. A portion of his head was cut off and that smile... what kind of smile is that?!


    After a few minutes of nothing getting sent back, Tyler grinned even wider.


    Tyler decided to call "Lena" right this moment to find out.


    As the phone rang, Kris laughed. He walked out to the living room and woke Lena up.


    Lena yawned and rubbed her eyes.


    "Your mistress is calling you." Kris handed the phone over to Lena.


    She stared at the caller ID and picked up the call.


    "Hello?"


    "Lena?" Tyler was expecting Kris to answer the phone.


    "What? You called me just to ask that?" Lena felt annoyed. She could have slept a bit longer.


    She looked at Kris who was putting on his shoes.


    "I ordered some food. It''s here and I will go pick it up." He talked softly and Lena nodded.


    "Um... did you get my texts...?"


    "What?" Lena was confused.


    As Lena continued to talk, Kris got into the speed elevator. He was in a good mood. He looked at his reflection from the window and tried to pose some selfie face and practice on his smile for the camera. As he got out to pick the food up, he was whistling and even tipped the delivery guy a handsome fee.


    When he came back Lena was just ending the call with Tyler.


    "Ok, thanks. See you then."


    Kris glanced at Lena when she said "See you then." but then continue to walk over to the dining table to set the food up.


    Lena noticed that Kris came back, but she was still browsing her text messages, reading the crazy thing Kris was sending. She almost choked on her saliva when she saw the stupid pictures.


    She noticed that Kris did not send a selfie back to Tyler but the picture he snapped was still saved in her photos. Of course, if Kris sent that horrible selfie back, he would have lost shamefully.


    Lena walked into the dining room and lean against the wall, watching Kris set up the table.


    "Are you not going to tell me about it?"


    "About what?" Kris ask.


    Kris was didn''t even care to delete the messages between him and Tyler. After all, there is nothing he really needed to hide from Lena.


    "You suck at taking selfies."


    "No I don''t. You''re camera just sucks. You need to get a new one."


    "Mhm...." Lena replied. "What were you doing to compare next? D*ck size?"


    Kris instantly glanced up at Lena and smiled. "Why didn''t I think of that?"


    Lena rolled her eyes. "Just don''t use my phone for that next time."


    They both ate together and then when it was time to leave, they separated. James came and picked up Lena while Kris drove to work himself that day.


    Lena did not go to the company that day but instead the Grand Hall where the fashion show would be. She made sure everything was perfectly set up for tomorrow. The PR team was ready for handling the drama that was sure to come.


    LUX''s team would be arriving tonight in City A. She already has a team to pick them up and take them to their hotel.


    Lena was staying at a hotel for the night instead. It would be easier to manage her schedule the next day if she was closer to the Grand Hall.


    The next day, Lena was up early to get herself ready. It was another day where getting her hair and make-up done was going to take her entire morning. Beauty is a pain.


    When she was done, she arrived at the event early with Angel Reynolds. As expected, the reporters were stacked. There was a leak of information to them already about the possible dupe that SHYNE did.


    Everyone did not ask any questions about it though as they want to see the result before making real accusations.


    No one knew that Kris and Lena "made up." Kris was going to inspect the Casino in City B with Collin and the Huang''s team which include Becca. So, he was not going to be at the release with Lena.


    It already caught on very early when no one says that the handsome boyfriend of Miss. Shen was not at the event.


    "Mr. Li is busy?" Madam Zhao asked Lena.


    "He is. The grand opening for his partnership business is opening in City B soon so he needed to go in for an in-house inspection."


    "I see." Madam Zhao smiled. "My husband and son also had something busy today, but they pushed it back. How about you join us for a celebratory dinner later?"


    Madam Zhao as hinting how good her son, Ming Zhao was. Lena just smiled and kindly accepted the invitation. Madam Zhao was already put into a rough situation with the leak of their product, so Lena should be kind.


    Finally, the event was starting. The three partners walked up to the stage together. Each making their welcoming and open statement for the guests.


    The first set was exactly the set that was leaked and released last week already. Only a few reporters had access to the live fashion. Many of the guests were older women as that is the brand that SHYNE represents.


    As the next set continued, Kiera came to the tell Lena that there was trouble at the back. Immediately, Lena excused herself from the audience and went backstage with Kiera.


    "What is it?" Lena asked.


    "The main model for set 3 sprained her ankle."


    "How did that happen?"


    "She went to use the bathroom and met some unpleasant guests. The guests were already removed from the area."


    When Lena arrived backstage, Madam Zhao was already there as the guests and fashion dresses were her part.


    "Her ankle is badly sprained, she won''t be able to walk the stage." Madam Zhao spoke.


    "And the backup?"


    "We can''t find her..."


    Funny. Lena looked around to see if there was someone suitable for the replacement.


    "How about Miss. Shen walk the stage?" Madam Zhao suggested.


    "Huh? Me?"


    "Yes. The dress is not anything too fancy as we are displaying the pieces of jewelry not the dress, so walking should be fine."


    "That''s true.... but, how about Madam Zhao go instead?"


    Everyone went silent and looked at Lena. Did she just tell the artist to walk the stage herself?


    "Madam Zhao must be more experienced than I am on a catwalk. Likewise, I think you will represent not only your brand by SHYNE''s as well."


    "Hmmm.." Madam Zhao thought about it. It had been ages since she walked onto the stage as a model. These days, older people were not entirely considered "models" but what Lena said was indeed correct.


    "Miss. Shen is right. Prepare the dress for me." Madam Zhao smiled. She felt like she was younger already.


    As Madam Zhao was preparing to walk the stage, Lena made sure that the model who got injured was sent to the hospital to get her ankle examined. Likewise, the replacement model would also get punished for breaking the contract with them.


    Lena continued to stay backstage to make sure everything was going well for the third and final grand walk. Madam Zhao was the first to walk the stage and everyone was amazed. It was definitely an unexpected change of plans that created a more positive image of the brand.

 Chapter 283 - Mings Girlfriend

    After the whole fashion walk was done, there was a small after-party with light snacks before the event officially ended.


    The Zhao family already left first, and Madam Zhao had told Lena the location of their dinner. Lena sent Angel off before heading out herself. However, as she exited, she was flooded with reporters.


    "Miss. Shen, is it true that a portion of your designs is copies of last week''s fashion jewelry release?"


    "What do you have to say about copying other people''s designs?"


    "Why did you continue to release the designs?"


    "Are you responsible for the damage to the partnership?"


    "What do your partners have to save about SHYNE duping other artists'' designs?"


    James and additional event security blocked the reporters as Lena continue to walk past them and into the car. She did not say one word nor did the other people.


    When she got inside the car, she immediately called Kris. He didn''t answer so she called him again. When she called him the third time, it was not Kris that picked up the call.


    "Miss. Shen?"


    "That''s indeed my name.... but shouldn''t you be calling me Lady boss, Becca?"


    "Ah, forgive me, Lady boss. It''s just hard for me to remember such a temporary name."


    "Where is Kris?"


    "Kris? He''s busy."


    "Busy with what?" Lena asked.


    Becca walked over to the bathroom door and knocked on it.


    "Kris? Do you want me to bring the clothes inside or should I just leave them out here?" Becca spoke loudly, obviously making sure Lena heard it.


    "Just leave it out there. I''ll be done and out soon." Kris replied to which Lena heard it softly.


    Before Becca could make another comment, the phone call got disconnected.


    When Kris got out of the bathroom, he was in a bathrobe. He was drying his hair with a towel.


    "Where''s Collin?" Kris asked.


    "Oh, he''s getting your clothes right now."


    "Then why did you even ask me where to put the clothes if you don''t have it. Tsk..." Kris snickered. "Why are you even here in the first place?"


    "Oh, CEO Huang wanted me to make sure you were alright. We already fired the waitress that served you the drink."


    "That old man worries too much. It''s just a drink."


    "In the past, you would have immediately removed the waitress. She stained such an expensive suit of yours." Becca pointed out.


    "In the past, you wouldn''t be so bold to just walk into my room like this." Kris glared at her. "Get out. Tell CEO Huang I am fine and I will see him at dinner."


    Becca nodded and then left the room. Kris walked over to the table where he left his cellphone. He was sure he heard Lena''s ringtone calling him. When he checked, there were no logs but he was sure Becca probably did something.


    He grabbed his phone and immediately called Lena, however, it rang but no one picked up. He called her again.


    ========


    "Are you going to pick that up?" James spoke from the driver''s seat, seeing Lena casually ignoring the phonecall and touching up on her makeup.


    "Not important."


    James knew it was Kris'' ringtone. Did those two get into a fight?


    James drove into the restaurant and parked. He got out and opened the door for Lena. Lena shut off her phone and got out of the car.


    "You don''t need to pick me up after I am done. I''ll have someone drop me off."


    James nodded.


    Lena walked inside the restaurant and the waitress immediately recognized Lena. She greeted Lena and took Lena to the private room that the Zhao reserved.


    When the door opened, Lena got inside. She spotted that CEO Zhao, Madam Zhao, Ming and Mike was also there.


    It''s been a while since she saw that bastard.


    "Hello." Lena greeted them.


    Madam Zhao immediately signaled Lena to sit next to her.


    After a few minutes, the food arrived and everyone casually chatted and ate.


    "It''s been years since I saw my wife walk down the walk, she said it was your idea." Zhao Lin spoke.


    "Madam Zhao suggested that I walk, but I felt that she was more suitable and experienced," Lena replied.


    "You were beautiful, Mom." Ming complimented his mother in Italian which Lena did not understand.


    "Aren''t you a little to chill considering the problems with the new right now?" Mike spoke. "This is also affecting the Zhao''s image."


    "Should I be scared right now? Panicking?" Lena smiled. "It seems like you''re still new to the business game. But that''s understandable, you have only entered this field a few months ago. Oh wait, but then so did I." Lena laughed. "I guess people learn at a different pace."


    "What are you trying to say?" Mike got agitated while Ming tried not to laugh too.


    "SHYNE did not copy anyone''s design. The fashion was live broadcasted, and anyone with good eyes would know that the designs today was on a different level than the one released last week. A good mistake from a competitive company doesn''t always come so easily. If you want to take out the competition, then you also need to be patient."


    Zhao Lin chuckled. "Miss. Shen is definitely intelligent. If you don''t work out with the young boy Li, I''ll give you my son for free."


    Ming choked on his water and looked at Lena. He slightly shook his head.


    "Thank you, CEO Zhao. I''ll remember that." She replied.


    Everyone continued to eat casually and have a small chat.


    "I heard that the third Madam Shen is pregnant?" Zhao Lin suddenly asked Lena.


    Lena was caught off guard. Aunt Ma was indeed pregnant, but the rest of her family do not even know about it yet, how did an outsider like Zhao Lin know?


    "Yes." Lena replied with a smile.


    "That''s very good. Do you know the gender yet?"


    "No. I have not talked to them for a while. With the fashion release, I had been busy."


    "I see." Zhao Lin took a sip of his drink.


    "Lin, didn''t you say you want to show Mike more of the outskirts company tonight?" Madam Zhao interrupted them.


    "Did I?" Zhao Lin looked at his wife and then he remembered. "Ah, yes. What time is it?" He looked at the clock and it was not very late yet.


    Ming also looked at his father. He did not hear anything about his father showing Mike around the other companies.


    "Father, there is still time." Mike excitedly replied.


    "Ah... but Miss. Shen is here today." Zhao Lin pointed out.


    "That''s fine, Ming can accompany her and send her home, right son?"


    Ming looked at his mom and then at Lena. "If it''s fine with her."


    "That''s fine." Lena replied. Why does she feel like the Zhao''s are still trying to hook her up with Ming...?


    And that was settled. After dinner, Zhao Lin, Madam Zhao and Mike left together.


    Ming looked at Lena but she continued to eat. Since it was just him and her now, hell, she was not going to leave until she had her fill. She was just practicing nice table manners before, but now, with no one else, she can freely eat.


    "Why do I feel like you are emptying my wallet?" Ming asked as he looked at Lena who continued to stuff herself.


    "I got invited here so obviously you are paying." Lena replied.


    Ming sighed. He glanced at his phone that kept buzzing from text messages.


    "Who is it?" Lena asked. "A girlfriend?"


    "..." Ming looked at Lena and laughed. "I guess you can say that."


    "Are you ignoring her? It''s bad to ignore the woman."


    "It''s bad to ignore men too."


    "..." Lena looked at him and then continued to eat.


    Ming looked at his phone at the flood of messages he was getting.


    Ada: Updates!!! Updates!!!


    Ada: Can you tell her to stop ignoring me?


    Ada: Tell her not to eat too much?


    Ada: No drinking


    Ada: Reply!


    Ada: :''C


    Ada: Can you take a picture of her for me? :o


    Ming looked at the texts and shook his head. He turned his phone on silent and looked at Lena. "Wanna drink? My girlfriend might kill me tomorrow."


    "Hell yeah! I am a wonderful drinking partner. Now tell me, is she hot?"

 Chapter 284 - Drinking buddies.

    "Hot." Ming replied and then ordered some drinks for them.


    When the drink came, Lena finally turned on her phone and looked at the missed calls she had. Two from her mother and the rest from Kris.


    "I''ll be back. Don''t start without me." Lena excused herself.


    She went out into the hallway and called her mother first. Shen Milli was just worried about Lena since SHYNE has been on the news all night. She called her to tell her mother that everything was fine and not to worry.


    After that, she gave Kris a call. This time, the man picked up after the first ring.


    "Babe!" Kris answered.


    "Oh wrong phone number, I thought this was Becca''s cellphone."


    "Don''t you dare hang up, Lena!" Kris screamed at her.


    "I was just kidding." Lena laughed. "Though, it''s nice to see you so fierce once in a while."


    "I didn''t know she was in the room."


    "I am not mad..." Lena replied. "Please, she used the shower excuse, so weak. Next time she calls you, I will pick it up and give her a real response."


    "Okay." Kris laughed.


    "Actually, I called you because I wanted something."


    "I was thinking you will never ask anything from me, since your such a big girl now."


    "So... you have to say yes." Lena spoke.


    "Whatever my baby wants, I will always say yes. So yes."


    "Good. You''re such a good boyfriend. Thank you for letting me drink with Mr. Ming Zhao."


    "What??!! No! I take it back. You''re not allowed to drink with another man if his name is not mine...or Gary''s."


    "Aw... you''re so sweet and unselfish you even add Gary''s name to make you look caring."


    "Lena!" She thought that he was going to yell at her again but instead he replied with, "One time. And, Lay get to pick you up. And, you can''t be drunk, last time you were drunk, I almost got---."


    "Oh... yes! I do remember that. Hell, that was some sexy kiss. We should have drunk s*x sometime."


    "Did I tell you that you are on speaking?" Kris teased her.


    "I don''t care if Collin hears my dirty talk. Love you and goodbye." Lena laughed as she ended the call.


    Lena went back into the room to see that Ming already started drinking without her.


    "Is it that bad?" Lena asked him as she sat down.


    "No... You were just taking to long. Did you take a dump?"


    "OHohoho... boy don''t start with me. I am not the one who got dumped! Ahahaha." Lena laughed as she poured herself a drink.


    It''s been a while where Lena sat and drink with someone. They both drink in silent until their second glass.


    "You''re brother... are not going to get rid of him soon?" Lena asked.


    "Mike? He still has some uses before I sink him. Didn''t you say one has to be patient to take down a competition?"


    "True... but if you wait too long, you never know what can happen."


    "I know..." Ming replied solemnly.


    Somehow, when he said that, Lena could feel that he was a bit sad from that. What was it? Was it miss opportunities that he missed in the past?


    Lena and Ming just casually chatted about what has been going on lately in each other''s lives. Lena drank a lot but not enough to be wasted.


    As Kris proposed, Lay did come to pick Lena up. Lay made sure Lena made it home safely before going home himself. He made sure to report to Kris that he did a good job.


    Lena took a quick shower, texted Kris goodnight, and then went to bed. Tomorrow was going to be a fun day.


    ======


    When Lena went to work the next morning, reporters were blocking the entrance of the company. Lena had already prepared extra security to ensure that her workers and the work environment remained a safe place.


    James got out of the car and opened the door for Lena. As she got out, the reporters tried to get a statement from her.


    "Miss. Shen, as the CEO of SHYNE, are you going to take responsibility for the duplication scandal?"


    "Last night, the artist Mikayla went live to speak about how your company stole her designs, do you have any comment on that, Miss. Shen?"


    "Is it true that instead of taking responsibility, you went out to have fun yesterday night?"


    Lena walked past everyone but then stopped at the front of the entrance.


    "SHYNE did not steal anyone''s design. Is any company or person believe that we did, we''ll be waiting for a lawsuit and settle this the legal way. " Lena spoke and then turned around to enter the company.


    The reporters mumbled to each other and started to contact Mikayla''s team to see if they would be issuing a legal lawsuit against SHYNE.


    Just as Lena arrived at her office, Mikayla already posted on her Weibo that she will be contacting her lawyer and suing SHYNE for copying her designs.


    Lena looked at her phone and laugh. "Daine." She called for her secretary.


    "Yes?"


    "If their lawyer shows up, I don''t want to speak to them. Give them the contact of the lawyers."


    "I''ll be sure to do that." Diane excused herself.


    Around noon that day, as expected, Mikayla''s legal team contacted SHYNE. They showed up at the company requesting to speak with Lena but they were directed to her lawyers instead.


    Instead, they went outside and complained to the reporters, saying that Lena Shen was refusing to cooperate with them.


    "Miss. Long, will you be taking lead for the Mikayla?" A reporter asked.


    "Yes. Mikayla is a small artist just making her career big and then she was pushed by bigger corporations." Nina Long replied.


    "Are you no afraid to go against the SHEN industry?"


    "No. It''s not fear that drives us, lawyers, it''s justice and correcting what is right."


    Lena laughed at the television screen as she watched Nina try to make herself like a good lawyer. How unexpected, she was drawing only one cockroach and landed with two! She must be very blessed.


    "Miss. Shen is still refusing to meet with my team regarding the situation. However, we will still pursue this case and make sure that the artist Mikayla gets her rights and compensation for the damages they have done to her."


    Just as the reporters were going to ask more questions to Nina, three men stepped out of a black car.


    "Refusing?"


    The reporters all turned around and gasped. Isn''t... that the famous Lawyer Hu and next to him is the young American Lawyer that made it big at such a young age. What was even more shocking that even the head lawyer from the Zhao corporation was there.


    They thought that the Zhao silently removed from interfering with the case, but why was their lawyer here? Was there information incorrect?


    "Seems like Lawyer Long is rejecting my client''s privacy. As far as I know, she doesn''t have to speak to you without a lawyer present. Lawyer 101, didn''t you learn that in school?" Milo Hu spoke loudly in the crowd.

 Chapter 285 - Surrounded by hot men.

    "Lawyer Hu..." Nina smiled.


    She knew that Lena had Milo Hu and Jackson Smith as her team of lawyers, but how did Connor Park from the Zhao corporation get here too? Connor has a big success rate as the other lawyers.


    Nina did not think that Lena was such a cunning lady that need to have so many men around her. ''Lena must be very good in bed.... it will only be soon when I will expose her.'' Nina showed no fear of the three men.


    "I didn''t think Miss. Shen that many lawyers to defend her? Doesn''t that only show how much she is using money and power to win this case?" A reporter pointed out.


    "Money..? Power...?" Milo laughed. "I don''t even represent the Shen company. I am an independent and private lawyer... it takes more than just money and power to get me into a stupid case like this. Anyone with good eyes can see who is duping who."


    "shouldn''t you leave that for the court to decide?" Nina interrupted him.


    "Yes, indeed, Lawyer Long. My team will see you at the first hearing tomorrow at noon. Good luck." The three of them walked past Nina as she just stood there and watched them go inside.


    She needs to hurry back and make sure her evidence is strong and has no flaws. She entered her car as her driver drove her back to the Long Law Firm.


    On the way there, she immediately called someone.


    "What happened?!" Nina shouted over the phone.


    "What happened? I should ask you what happened instead?!" A man''s voice shouted back.


    "You were supposed to make sure the Zhao did not get involved in this. That was part of our deal."


    "Deal? You said that your family will have my back, and yet, when my father went to show me around the company yesterday, all he did was remind me that I  must work hard to support Ming Zhao when he takes over the company!"


    "You''re so useless. My family support you yet you can''t even do one thing right... what makes you think that you can even take over the Zhao company, Mike?"


    "Don''t test my patience woman." Mike threatened.


    "Forget it, I can still win the case with another lawyer on her team."


    "Aren''t you overestimating yourself? Lena isn''t even pulling the full card, she''s just playing softly on you. If she wanted to, she would have the Li Legal team defending her, yet she went for second rate lawyers."


    "Tsk..." Nina bit her nails and she contemplates how to deal with this. "I will just go with plan B."


    "You have a plan B?"


    "Of course." Nina smiled. "I would still need your help though."


    "Why would I help you?"


    "Becuase I know where your brother is hiding your wife and child. If you want that information, you need to help me."


    "Fine..." Mike gritted his teeth. This woman was venomous. "What do you need me to do?"


    "You''re not CEO yet... but you are still head of the research team. I need you to---" Nina continued to talk to Mike about what she needed him to do. But what they did not know was that someone was listening to their conversation.


    ======


    Daine greeted the three lawyers and lead them to a meeting room where Lena and the two main designers of SHYNE were.


    Lena welcomed all of them. Jackson will be representing LUX while Connor will be representing the defense of Alice Zhao.


    "The initial hearing will be tomorrow since the other team wants to rush the case." Milo started.


    "And everything is prepared?" Lena asked.


    "Yes, the evidence from the leak from LUX and our proof of authenticity from the designers are also secured."


    "I have a feeling the other team will backout from the hearing," Connor spoke. "We will also prepare if they wish to negotiate instead of bringing this to the court too."


    They continued to explain the steps and progress with the ladies. They want to make sure all of them were prepared in any case they were approached or questioned at the hearing.


    It was a long day for Lena but she made lots of progress. When she left the company to go home, the new headline was how handsome the team representing SHYNE was.


    She kicked off her shoes off once she entered her apartment. She immediately went to her room and got ready to take a shower. Lena had never experienced something big like this before, it was exhausting.


    Lena turned on the shower and let it run as she closed her eyes and try to enjoy the peace. She should take a long vacation with Kris after this. Maybe they should go to visit her family and see how her Aunt''s pregnancy is.


    Lena''s mind wondered back to how Zhao Lin knew that her Aunt was pregnant. Maybe her Uncle Ma already knew and is already bragging about it. Not as many people were able to have that many children.


    At that moment, her beautiful peacetime was interrupted by an abrupt opening of the shower doors.


    "AH!" Lena got spooked, covering herself with her hands.


    "Let me join you." Kris smiled.


    Before Lena could reply, he already took off the towel that was covering his lower half and entered the shower with Lena.


    "You look tired." Lena looked at him.


    "How can I sleep when my girlfriend is out drinking with a hot stranger yesterday... and how... she even add three more men to her side! What am I supposed to do when my woman is surrounded by hot men?!"


    Lena put her hands around his neck and pulled him closer to her. "Obviously something they can''t do...." She looked down his naked body and smiled.

 Chapter 286 - Something bad happened

    Kris looked at his mischievous girl.


    "You''re getting bolder and bolder. Have I spoiled you too much? Maybe I need to keep you on a tighter leash." Kris smiles.


    He turned his body so that he was blocking all the water from the shower. He wrapped his arms around Lena and pulled her in for a kiss.


    One of his hands made it down to her buttocks. He gave it a soft squeeze. Lena gasped from the sudden grab.


    Kris instantly stuck his tongue inside her mouth, claiming this pretty mouth entirely as his. They parted their mouths slightly, tongue out and twirling around each other. Then, they slammed their lips together again... and on and off sensational kiss until they were satisfied.


    Kris looked at Lena with soft serene eyes. He then turned around, grabbed the shampoo and started washing Lena''s hair.


    Lena was a bit surprised.


    "What?" Kris continued to wash her hair and she closed her eyes.


    "Nothing." Lena smiled. She knew he only stopped because it was the one time of the month.


    When Lena was done, she washed his hair. They both help each other washed their backs before they got out of the shower.


    Lena cooked them dinner. They both chatted for a while before going to bed.


    It was not until 3 a.m. in the morning when Lena''s phone was blaring up. She only opened her eyes when Kris woke her up. She protested as she got out of Kris'' warmth and picked up the phone.


    "Mhmm...?" Lena answered, obviously not fully awake.


    "Sorry to bother you, MIss. Shen, but something had happened."


    "Hmm?? Is this Lawyer Hu?" Lena mumbled.


    Kris perked his head up, opening his eyes wider when he realized it was a man calling his woman in the middle of the night.


    "There was a bomb. The witness is dead along with several security details. Jackson is currently at the hospital for treatment for some minor burns."


    "What?!" Lena instantly opened her eyes.


    She was definitely wide awake now. She got up from the bed and turned on the lamp.


    "I''ll be there in 10." Lena spoke.


    "The authorities are already here... and I am taking care of the situation here. I think its best if you go to the hospital." Milo Hu suggested.


    "You''re right. I''ll get in contact with the team in LUX and his family. I''ll send someone else there to help you."


    Milo gave Lena the hospital where Jackson was taken to and then the call ended.


    Lena put a hand on her face, did a yawn and scream and then looked at Kris.


    "I got to go... something bad happened."


    "Let me take you." Kris got up from the bed and also started changing his clothes. "I heard a bomb...? I am not letting you go out if this case is this dangerous."


    Lena nodded. After 10 minutes, both of them were down in the parking lot.


    While driving to the hospital, Lena called and informed Angel on the situation. Angel said that she will contact his family since she is already back in America. Lena confirmed and that she will give them updates when she reaches the hospital.


    Jackson was already getting treated when Lena entered his room. The nurse was just finishing up bandaging his wounds. Jackson spotted Lena entered the room and smiled at her.


    "Hey." He spoke in English.


    "How are you? That looks bad." Lena felt his pain.


    He lifted up his arm a bit and chuckled. "I don''t know... I am like... high on drugs. Doc said it was just some minor burns. Some good ointment then it shouldn''t leave a horrible scar."


    "That''s good..." Lena walked over and sat on the sofa on the side until the nurse was done bandaging him.


    Jackson tilted his head a bit to get a better look at Kris.


    "Is that your brother?" He asked.


    "No... I am her future husband." Kris sat by Lena''s side and put a hand on her back.


    "Fiance?"


    "No..."


    "Boyfriend?" Jackson asked more clearly.


    "...." Kris glared at this man. He felt like this lawyer did not get enough pain. "What is it to you?"


    "You didn''t you look like her brother... just more weird to say "Hey is that your boyfriend?" And then in the end... it''s a brother." Jackson shrugged.


    The temperature of the room dropped. Lena could feel that Kris was ready to snap this young man''s head off.


    "He''s high... and injured." Lena whispered to Kris.


    Kris looked at Lena and then calmed down. She was right.... he did not need to get riled up by this man.


    The nurse was finally done. She said that she will come back and check on him later. She also reminded Lena not to talk to him too much since the drug might be making him drowsy.


    "I am sorry..." Jackson spoke as he looked into the white ceiling.


    Lena could tell that his mind was wandering... but he was truly sorry about whatever he felt sorry for. She pulled a chair next to him and held his hand. Of course, she gave Kris the look first before doing so, just in case the man gets jealous.


    But he didn''t... the young lawyer was far from home. He needed some comfort.


    "Hey... It''s fine if the witness died... we can still win the case. I got you on my team remember, not a single case you lose yet, Jackson. Why don''t you take a good rest... I''ll make sure your parents know you''re alright, okay?"


    Jackson nodded and closed his eyes. He understood what Lena said even feeling the weight of the drugs coming in.


    "Watch him okay? I am just going to call Angel back to report the situation to him." Lena walked out and called Angel.


    Kris watched Lena leave the room. He looked at the young lawyer and then stood up. He walked by the window and took out his cellphone.


    "Tell me what happened?" Kris demanded from the call.


    "Boss...." There was a short silence before the man on the other side answered again. "Sorry, just had to go somewhere private."


    "Ok."


    "The witness was the person who stole the information from LUX and leaked it out. He was from the IT team. Jackson made him a good deal for him to testify that he did steal the information and sell it for a price."


    "And he''s dead now?"


    "Yes... because he was from LUX, Jackson and his private security team had him on watch." The man replied.


    "How many dead?"


    "3 guards dead, 2 injured. And there is Jackson too."


    "And Lena?" Kris asked.


    "I don''t believe she is in danger... I think whoever it was.. just wanted to get rid of the witness."


    "I understand."


    "Boss.... there is one thing." The man spoke. "The bomb.. its signature... I know who made it."


    "Who?!"


    "I am certain that this was made by.... Agent 301... Ex Agent."


    "...." Kris looked at the door knowing that Lena was not back yet and then at Jackson, who was asleep on the bed. "Becca..."

 Chapter 287 - Fight Dirty with Dirty.

    "How are you going to deal with her now?" The man asked. "If you keep it too long, she might even do something worse."


    "You''re right. But somehow... I just think it''s a little bit... too easy. Especially for someone like Becca who has done it multiple times." Kris pondered. "Keep doing your thing... I''ll take care of things regarding Becca."


    "Yes, Boss...."


    "Good. And Milo..." Kris looked out the window. "Finish off that lawyer too while you are at it. I don''t want to see her walking around throwing her authority again."


    "Absolutely. The case is still a slam dunk even without the witness. I won''t fail you again, boss."


    Kris hung up te call and walked back to sit on the sofa as he waited for Lena to return. When she came back, she brough them some breakfast from the hospital cafeteria.


    "I know it''s not the best... But just a bit for the morning." Lena handed Kris his plate of food. "His parents will be flying and get here by tonight."


    "And you?"


    "I would love to stay... but it''s no use staying here anyways. I got to go to court today and kill some b*tches. I didn''t think it was so serious that they needed to kill someone. I guess... I underestimated the situation."


    "I''ll put some of my men with you." Kris added.


    "Don''t you already have someone always stalking me...?"


    "Hmmm?" Kris responded. "I don''t. But just this time... It would make me feel better."


    "Ok." Lena used her fork to grab a slice of melon and brought it to Kris'' mouth. He opened it and took in the fruit.


    "There is something... but I don''t want to tell you about it. I just want your trust in me."  Kris suddenly threw a hard topic into their lovely breakfast.


    "I don''t like the sound of that... that''s what people say before they go do something dangerous and then I am going to get a widow phonecall that my husband is dead or injured."


    Kris laughed... like he legitly laughed. He stopped looking at Lena as he held his stomach and continued to laugh.


    "It''s not funny...." Lena looked at him and smiled. Her beautiful man looked so much better when he was laughing and smiling, being all happy.


    Compare to how he was when she first met him, she liked him better like this. But it will always be that dangerous and alluring side of him that she fell in love with.


    Kris finally stopped and held Lena''s hand. She looked into her eyes, and softly asked her, "Will you trust me on this?"


    "I will always trust you. And, I will always love you, no matter what."


    "You can punish me as much as you want afterward..." Kris smiled. He went closer to Lena and planted a soft kiss on her lips.


    He was going to go in for another one, but was interrupted by the ringing of Lena''s phone. Lena looked at the caller ID and then picked it up.


    "What is it?" She answered.


    "The opposing team have pushed the first hearing from this afternoon to one hour from now." Milo spoke.


    "Can they do that?"


    "If the judge approved and we were given a notice... which we were given notice just now."


    "I see... that''s fine." Lena looked at Kris and smiled. "If they wanted to play dirty, then let''s play dirty. Pick me up in 15 and well go there together."


    "Alright."


    "And my bodyguard will go pick up Connor."


    "See you then, Miss. Shen."


    Milo hung up the call and immediately drove to the hospital to pick up Lena.


    Lena took one last bite of her food. She put down her fork and looked at Kris.


    "Future husband, not fiance, but boyfriend... how much money do you have?"


    "Is that really a question?" Kris smiled.


    "How much money do I have... if I am your future wife, not fiance, but girlfriend."


    "All of my money is your money...." Kris coughed. "the Legit, non-illegal ones, anyways."


    "But I want to get dirty.... how much money can I have that is dirty?"


    Kris looked at Lena... she was damn serious about getting dirty. He sighed. "I''ll have Collin contact you about that information."


    "Good. And one more thing that I need from you, If I may." Lena spoke and Kris listened. "I need to use your connection in the USA. I don''t have any there, but I am sure someone of your... social standing will have some."


    "Future wife, not fiance, but girlfriend... For that, I''ll need to charge you a special payment... and I will collect that with interest."


    "Okay." Lena agreed. "I''ll wait for you."


    Lena picked up her things. She left a note for Jackson and then left. Before Kris left the hospital, he upgraded Jackson to a VIP room and his own security details.


    Lena did not bother telling Kris why she needed those things from him. Her man was smarter than her to figure out why she needed them. She, on the other hand, is not smart enough to understand what he was doing... but isn''t that the interesting thing about having someone like Kris with you? Mysterious, dangerous, and sexy.


    When will her period be done and over with? Her mind wandered until Milo pulled up the car at the front of the hospital and Lena got in.


    While he drove, Lena talked to him about how their plans were going to change. Of course, she left out the note about the illegal money... after all, she was talking to a lawyer.


    By the time they reach the courthouse, Lena received a text from Kris.


    Kris: All good to go :thumbsup:

 Chapter 288 - First Degree Murder

    Milo and Lena arrived on time, but they purposely waited just a few minutes to be late. Connor was also just going along with what these two were doing. When the clock hit exactly 5 minutes passed the time scheduled, Lena and her team finally entered the courtroom.


    "And the defendant team finally decided to show up." The judge spoke. "Miss. Shen, if you can''t show up on time what makes you think I won''t just go with the case without a hearing?"


    "Judge Lee, I am sure you have heard that there was a bomb explosion at the Marriot Hotel. If it was not that my lawyer was injured and the witness dead, I would not be late." Lena replied.


    "Let''s get this started..." Judge Lee looked at Lena and then cleared his throat. "Miss. Mikayla is suing the SHYNE for copying her designs. How does the defendant----"


    Before the judge could finish, a worker from outside quickly rushed over and hand him a paper.


    "What is this?" Judge Lee put on his reading glasses and read the note. "Miss. Long, do you have anything to say about this arrest warrant for you?"


    "What?" Mikayla exclaimed. She looked at Nina.


    "What arrest warrant?" Nina was also shocked.


    Nina walked over to the judge''s desk and looked at the paper. It was indeed an arrest warrant.. and for her! She was getting charged with first-degree murder.


    "I didn''t have anything to do with that!" She voiced.


    "Judge.. the police are outside, but they are waiting for you to finish this first." The worker clarified.


    "They can come to take her! I don''t need such people inside my courtroom."


    At that point, two policemen entered the courtroom and put handcuffs on Nina.


    "This is absurd! What evidence do you have against me? Just wait until my father hears about this, he will sue your entire department!" Nina raged.


    Lena watched them dragged her out. Lena did not hide the smirk on her face and Nina obviously saw it.


    ''Just you wait... Once I get out, you won''t be laughing then.'' Nina glared at Lena.


    Lena yawned and blinked. She barely got any sleep, her drowsiness was getting to her.


    "Miss. Mikayla, your primary lawyer is not gone, who from your team will be the first chair now?"


    The rest of Nina''s team looked at each other. Their boss just got arrested but they still have to represent the firm.


    "I am." A younger man spoke up. "That being said, we are hoping your honor will grant us 24 hours to regroup since Lawyer Long is not here."


    "That''s unfair, your honor. It was them that requested we have an earlier hearing than the normal time scheduled at noon. Now they want to extend the time. Are they even taking this case seriously? As far as I know, they are just wasting my client''s time and yours." Milo interrupted.


    "Lawyer Hu is correct. No extension. We will proceed." He slammed his gavel.


    Lena tried her best to stayed awake but she dozed off for the 15 minutes it lasted. She was just here because her presence was needed, but her lawyers will do their work.


    In the end, the trail is scheduled two weeks from now. Both parties must have their evidence submitted and witness to testify by then.


    When it was all over, Lena stood up, yawned and smiled at Mikayla. "Good luck."


    Lena walked out with her lawyers behind her.


    "Did... Miss. Long really paid someone to bomb the hotel?" Connor asked.


    He just woke up an hour ago and did not get time to know much about the bomb.


    "I don''t know." Lena shrugged. "The police must have found something to have issued an arrest."


    Since Lena came with Milo, he also dropped her back at the hospital. Connor left the same way he arrived.


    Lena was told that Jackson was already moved to a VIP room. She smiled, knowing that it must have been Kris who did it.


    She looked at her phone and also noticed that Collin has sent her the information that she needed. She immediately called Kris.


    "Are you busy?" Lena asked.


    Kris looked at the room full of people. He was in a meeting. When everyone heard a phone ringing, they immediately knew that it was Lena. Their boss had a special ringtone for her. The man stopped presenting, and Kris picked up the call.


    "No." Kris replied but stood up. He nodded at Collin and step out of the room. "What''s up."


    "You were in a meeting.." Lena could hear him close the door.


    "Yes. But I was not busy."


    "..." Lena rolled her eyes. "I am at the hospital, pick me up here tonight."


    "Okay. I''ll order you some lunch and dinner."


    "No..." Lena yawned. "I am taking a nap... so just something 5 hours from now."


    "Okay. Sleep well." Kris smiled.


    "Babe... Thanks." Lena spoke and then hung up the call.


    When Lena arrived at the VIP room, she spotted two security details outside the room. They immediately greeted her when they spotted her.


    "Morning, Lady Boss."


    Lena stopped walking for a second and then smiled. These must be the people she had met last time when Kris took her out in the middle of nowhere. She smiled and nodded.


    "Did the doctor said anything new?" Lena asked.


    "No. He just came in and check on the patient a few minutes ago. Mr. Smith is also still sleeping."


    "Ok thanks." Lena walked into the room.


    The room was big and spacious. Lena closed her eyes. She suddenly recalled the times she was in the hospital... she never really liked it here.


    She walked over to the cabinet, grabbed out a pillow and laid down on the sofa. She put a hand on her bullet scar, another on her heart, and closed her eyes. After a few minutes, she was fast asleep.

 Chapter 289 - Where are you?

    Lena doesn''t know how long she had slept for... but she was still very tired. Her eyes were closed shut but somehow... she could hear a loud banging.


    She ignored it but it continued to bang.


    *BANG BANG*


    She rolled over, ignoring the sound again.


    "Shen Qian?! Are you home?!" A voice shouted and the door continued to be banged on.


    ''Shen Qian.... yeah... such a beautiful name.'' L ena smiled, her eyes still shut. ''Maybe I will name my daughter that....  Wait...''


    Lena immediately opened her eyes. She jerked up from her bed... yes bed. Wasn''t she at the hospital?


    She looked around and noticed that she was in her room... Shen Qian''s room. It was exactly how she left it... messy.


    The room was tiny and the apartment too. Lena got up from the bed and looked at herself in the mirror.


    ''I am back....?'' She touched her face. This was her face... round and cute, not pretty like Lena''s. She looked at her body... this was her body. Smaller breasts, more worn out hands, and tiny fingers.


    Lena suddenly squatted down, legs hugging her legs and her head on her knees.


    "NO...No...." She whimpered. ''Wait... aren''t I suppose to be dead?''


    She stood up again, so confused and emotional. '' Is this... a dream?''


    She pinched herself. Once, Twice. Three times but nothing was happening. The door was still getting banged at but she stared into space before suddenly ending up in front of her door.


    Lena opened the door and she spotted him... No, not the man she was expecting but him, Senior Han.


    "Shen Qian! I was about to call the police... Are you okay? I thought something bad happened to you. You haven''t come to work for three days now."


    "Three days...? What is today''s date?" Lena asked.


    He replied to her and then looked at her concernedly. "Do you want me to take you to the hospital?"


    Lena was still in a daze... it has only been two days since Senior Han asked her out? What is going on? Is she in a dream...? Or had she been dreaming this whole time... Lena, Kris... Kris.


    ''Gary... Yes, that was right. He was here too wasn''t he?''


    "Did you drive here? Can you take me back to work?" Lena spoke.


    "Uh... Yeah, I drove here... I can take you back. Why don''t you get change first?"


    "Ah, Yes. Give me a minute." Lena shut the door on him, leaving him outside as she rushed to get change.


    Lena rushed out when she was ready. Han Liu... that was his name, he drove her back to the workplace. He was concern about her the entire time, asking if she was sure she did not need to go to the hospital, but Lena was sure. She just wanted to see Gary... Erik.


    When they got to the company, Lena rushed quickly to Erik''s office. Without a warning, she opened his doors and walked right in. He was looking at some documents before his door as suddenly opened.


    "Oh.. Little Qian Qian, are you back to work already?" Erik looked up from his paperwork.


    Lena stopped and stared at him. "Gary?"


    "Gary?" Erik looked at Lena and then laugh. "It''s only been three days since you last saw me... did you already forget your boss'' name?"


    Lena put a hand on her forehead... she wasn''t thinking straight. Of course, he is not Gary yet... the shooting did not happen until later. But that doesn''t matter...


    Lena looked at Erik. ''Something is missing .... no someone... Where are you, Kris ?''


    Erik stood up from the chair and walked closer to Lena. "Hey... Are you---"


    Before he could finish his sentence, Lena suddenly fainted. Erik grabbed her hand and pulled her body to him, catching her fall.


    "Hey!" Erik called out and told someone to call for an ambulance. "Shen Qian... hey, don''t die in my office."


    ======


    Lena felt her eyes heavy... she was on something soft... but she could not tell if it was a bed or sofa, she was scared to open her eyes. She kept her eyes closed, however, she could hear the doctor talking.


    "She''s alright... just a very bad flu. Her temperature was very high but we have lowered it down. She should stay here for a few days."


    ''.....'' Lena opened her eyes, and what she feared was indeed correct. She was still here... where she originally belongs. She once wished that she was back here...


    Her eyes started getting teary.


    "Are you in pain?" Han Liu walked up to Lena and held her hand. "Doc, why is crying? Is she in pain?"


    "I--- Miss. Shen, are you experiencing any pain?"


    Lena jerked Han Liu''s hand away from her. She turned to her side and covered herself with the blanket. She closed her eyes again, hoping that the third time would be the charm.


    However, no matter how many times she woke up, she was still here. Her father ran high a few times and she stayed longer in the hospital. Han Liu always came and visited her after work, bringing her something warm to eat.


    "Senior Han?"


    "Hmmm?" He was cutting her some fruits.


    "Thanks.... but I think you should stop coming to visit me." Lena spoke.


    "Why? Are you thinking that you are a bother? Don''t think that." He smiled at her. "You''re sick, you''re parents are far and they have told me to take good care of you."


    "No... that''s not it. About your confession, I can''t accept it." Lena replied.


    Han Liu put down the small knife he was using to cut the fruit and looked at Lena. He didn''t speak back to her immediately... he was trying to read her face. "It''s fine. I''ll just keep asking you until you say yes."


    "Then I''ll keep saying no."


    "...." Han Liu thought that Shen Qian really had feelings for him... why does she look different now? "Why...?


    "I am sorry. But there is someone I already have my heart settled on."


    "Does he love you too?" He asked.


    "Yes."


    "Where is he now that you are here? The nurses told me no one had visited you except your co-workers."


    "It''s complicated," Lena replied.


    "Right.... well, I will still come to visit you every day after work. I promised you, parents, already." Han Liu finished cutting the fruit and placed it on the hospital bed table. "Eat this then get some rest."


    He walked out of the room and closed the door. Han Liu looked at Lena through the small window of the door. ''Maybe she is just feeling down due to her fever....'' He sighed and then walked away

 Chapter 290 - It was all a dream.

    Lena ate the fruit and then the doctor came and checked on her. He told her that she can be discharged in a few days.


    "Your friends told me that... you were experiencing some hard time sleeping and minor hallucinations?" The doctor asked Lena.


    "No." Lena replied... she was not experiencing any hallucinations.


    "Well, don''t worry. You''re not crazy. It''s just some effects from the high fever. Your brain is having more activity since it is trying to protect itself from the heat. It''s normal to experience some minor hallucinations."


    "Okay..." Lena replied just so the doctor would stop.


    As he said, Lena was released from the hospital a few days after. The doctor prescribed some medicine. At first, she took them but Lena realized that her memory of Kris and everyone else back there was getting hazier. She stopped taking the medication.


    She went to work as normal and waited. A week passed, two, then three. Erik got into his car crash, he was in a coma for 2 months before waking up. Lena spent her days visiting Erik every day that Han Liu thought that Erik was the person she loved.


    But when Erik woke up... he was not Gary... he was just, still Erik.


    "Do you like me?" Erik asked her.


    "No." Lena placed down the laptop on his desk and turned around to leave. She just came up here to give him the project that she finished.


    "I heard you visited me every day when I was comatose. Even my family did not visit me so much."


    "It''s because you paid for my hospital bill, don''t think too much about it," Lena replied.


    ''I visited you because I thought you were Gary....''


    Erik got up from his chair and walked in front of Lena, shutting the door before she could leave.


    "I heard you rejected Han Liu... are you going to reject me too?" He asked.


    "Huh?" Lena looked up to him. He was handsome, kind, and... not him. "Sorry, but I don''t understand what you are saying."


    "I didn''t think that I would like someone like you... but these past few days, you''re all I can think about."


    "That''s a horrible pick up line, Mr. Chen."


    "Really, see that''s why you are so likable! Why didn''t I see that before?"


    Lena rolled her eyes. "I have someone I like already, Mr. Chen. Sorry, but you''re not my type. I hope our relationship can remain professional."


    Lena removed his hands away from her path and walked out the door.


    Lena was starting to think that maybe she was crazy and that everything was just a dream... but somewhere deep inside her heart... she did not want to give up. She was starting to forget how Kris looked like. The smile that he would only give her and the way he teased her.


    She was scared.... to lose something she treasured so much. How can she forget him so easily...?


    Months past... but nothing changed. Lena was just getting more depressed and lonely.


    Erik could see that Lena was feeling unwell so he forced her to take a vacation. Lena decided to take the break and go visit her parents.


    Her parents were older and lived secluded. She has not been herself since she "returned." Still feeling like everything here was just a dream... a very long dream that she needed to wake up from.


    "Shen Qian.. my sweetie has gotten so skinny! And look at you, your face is so dull... who is going to marry you like that?" Her mother greeted her.


    Lena smiled... a true and real smile since she was back. She hugged her mom tightly and then her dad. She spent a good day with them and then the next day, she went out to go walking with her mother.


    As they were walking, Lena''s eye caught the glimpse of an isolated stone statue. She stopped and then walked toward it.


    "Red Thread of Fate..." Lena''s eye lit up. "Mom... what is this place?"


    "This... It''s a park now... but it used to be a very popular shrine before it got abandoned."


    "Can we walk around here for a bit?" Lena asked.


    "I am a little tired."


    "Why don''t you sit here and I''ll be gone for just a few minutes?"


    "Okay." Her mother replied.


    Lena helped her mother find a good spot to sit before going to look around. She doesn''t know what she was searching for... but she felt like she was closer to the hazy memories if she was here.


    She walked around for a bit... but nothing happened. She turned around and walked back to where her mother was resting.


    "Little girl."


    Lena stopped and turned around. "Me?" And then she paused. ''It''s her! The old lady!''


    Lena rushed over the old lady''s side and grabbed her hand. "Do you know me? DO you remember me?"


    "You are a blessed child." The old lady replied.


    "Yes! You told me that before. How do I go back?" Lena asked.


    "If you defy your fate, you will suffer the consequences."


    "No." Lena rejected her. "Die and reborn, only then will your true soul be fully merged with the body. I already died and was reborn... why am I here? How do I go back?"


    "Back? Why back? Your fate is here... there is no back. If you defy your fate, you will suffer the consequences."


    "You''re saying that I died... got shot, fell in love, just to be back here?"


    "Died? Love? How can you experience those if it was never real?"


    Lena stepped backed from the old lady. ''No... no matter what everyone tells me... it was real. It is real!''


    Lena turned her back and ran. It didn''t matter where she was going... just somewhere far from here. She finally stopped when she was out of breath...


    She didn''t know where she was. She sat on the grass first... and then laid down on her back. She put a hand on her eyes and cried.


    ''This is a cruel joke that the universe is playing...''


    "Die and reborn.... if I died... would I get to see you again?" Lena mumbled. But she knew things were not that easy... death is not something to joke nor play with.


    She closed her eyes and tried to breathe.... in and out. ''Maybe if I only see him a dream, that''s enough for me.''


    "Why are you sleeping here?"


    Lena heard a voice but she covered her ears. Why can''t people just let her be peaceful for awhile longer... she wanted to imagine his face again and now she got interrupted.


    ''Focus... focus...'' Lena kept her eyes shut.


    There was a long silence and then Lena opened her eyes.


    She smiled. ''Yeah... that''s how you look like. I remember it now.''


    She placed a hand on the cheeks of the man in front of her. ''This cheek, this lip... How can I ever forget you?''


    "I miss you." Lena chuckled.


    "I miss you too."

 Chapter 291 - Dont leave me.

    "You feel... so close." Lena smiled and baby pinched the man''s cheeks. Then she laughed again... one of her crazy laughed.


    "Lena... you''re hurting me."


    Lena.


    Lena stopped pinching the man and jerked her hand back. Her back wasn''t on the hard grassy ground but on something soft. And Kris... he is real?


    Lena reached her hand out, but what surprised Kris.. was a sudden slap across his face.


    *SLAP*


    Kris immediately stepped back and looked at Lena... "What was that for?"


    Lena sat up, looking at herself first and then at everyone in the hospital room. She glanced at the clock and it had only been two hours since she arrived here. But for her... it felt like months!


    She instantly removed the blanket and jumped to hug Kris. Lena burst into a loud cry.


    Kris put his hands around her and hugged her. Seeing her cry was more painful than the slap. She was fine just a while ago when they were talking... what happened?


    Kris looked at his men who were guarding the room. They knew that their boss wanted them to leave. They helped Jackson, who was awake too, and they moved to a different room.


    === 30 minutes ago ===


    Jackson fluttered his eyes open. He did not know how long he had slept for. The sun was still bright outside. He felt a slight pain from the burn on his arm but it was not too bad. He can still feel the pain killer doing its job.


    He needed to use the bathroom badly though. He was considering if he needed to call a nurse or not. In the end, he stood up and grab the IV with him to use the bathroom. After he was done, he finally noticed that Lena was sleeping on the large sofa.


    He smiled. Lena must be a really good person.


    ''I think she had a boyfriend... or was it the brother?'' Jackson tried to remember but his memory was a bit hazy. Either way, that person was lucky to have Lena.


    He was about to walk back to his bed, but he suddenly heard Lena made a sound. He walked a bit closer to her, and noticed that she was... crying?


    He bent down and used his uninjured arm to reached for Lena, trying to wake her up. However, the door suddenly opened and one of the guards glared at him.


    "What are you doing to her?!" K9 shouted at him.


    "I...." Jackson took his hand back and step away further from Lena. "She... she''s having a nightmare... I think?"


    K9 looked at his partner, K12. K12 stayed outside for lookout while K9 went inside the room. He looked at the Lady Boss and noticed that there were some tears on her face.


    "What did you do to her?"


    "What? I didn''t do anything!" Jackson defended himself. These men are good only when they are keeping him safe.. but scary when they start accusing him.


    K9 glared at him and then bent down. He gently placed a hand on Lena''s shoulder and shook her slightly.


    "Lady Boss??" He gently shook her again. "Miss. Shen?"


    He didn''t want to be too rough on the Lady Boss, but she seems to be not waking up. She made a whimper but she was still not waking up.


    He shook her a little harder this time. No response. He sighed and immediately called his boss. He shouldn''t shake the Lady Boss much harder or this boss will punish him later.


    "What is it?" Kris answered. He had just picked up the food he ordered and was walking back to his car.


    "Boss... It''s the Lady."


    Kris stopped walking. "What happened?"


    "Well..." K9 looked at Lena who was deeply sleeping on the sofa. "I think she is having a nightmare... I tried waking her up but she''s not budging. She''s crying in her sleep..."


    "Ok. I''ll be right there."


    Kris immediately hung up the car and rushed to his car. He sped his way to the hospital and ran to the VIP room. When he entered the room, he instantly spotted Lena on the sofa. If it was not for the tears on her face, he would assume that she was peacefully sleeping.


    He went on his knees and wiped the tears off her face.


    "Lena...." He whispered her name. "Wake up."


    He knew that she was a very deep sleeper... but it never took so much work to wake her. He placed a hand on her shoulder and tried to shake her. No matter how hard he tried, she did not move.


    "Go get the doctor." Kris demanded.


    K12 looked at his boss and then ran out to call for a doctor.


    "How long has she been like this?!" Kris glared at K9 and then at the innocent lawyer.


    "I check on them every half hour... I didn''t see that Miss... I mean the Lady Boss was having a nightmare at all. My fault, sir." K9 replied.


    Then Kris looked at Jackson. Jackson held his breath. He had worked on many dangerous cases before. Drugs, kidnapping, politics... but no one as scary as this man in front of him.


    "I... I just woke up and used the bathroom... and I... I saw her like that."


    "Tsk..." Kris went back to focus on Lena. Her face was already wet again with new tears. He wiped it dry again.


    He was holding her hand and bent low to kiss her forehead. "Lena... I''m here. Don''t be scared."


    After what felt like forever, he looked back at K9.


    "Why isn''t the doctor here yet?! Is everyone in this hospital dead asleep?!"


    "Lena...." Kris was very worried. "Why are you sleeping here?"


    Just when K9 was about to exit the room, Lena suddenly opened her eyes and smiled. She put a hand on Kris'' face.


    "I miss you." Lena chuckled.


    "I miss you too..." Kris replied.

 Chapter 292 - You were a dream.

    === Present ===


    Lena was hugging Kris very tight as if she was not going to let anything separate them. At that moment, she doesn''t know anything anymore. She did not care if this was a dream or reality, if she was dead or not, or if she was crazy and making a mess on Kris.


    The only thing that mattered right now... was the presence of this man in front of her.


    "Are you real...?" Lena cried.


    "Yes... I am  very-- AH!" Kris flinched from the unexpected bite.


    After that, Lena did a weird laugh while crying. "You''re real... ahahaha."


    "...." Kris was very worried... What did Lena dream about? "Do you want to bite again? Or slap?"


    "No...." Lena sniffed, trying to stop crying now. "Just... stay."


    "Okay." Kris caressed her head and kissed the top of it. "I''ll stay here as long as you want."


    As he was still holding Lena tightly in his arms, he saw that K12 slightly opened the door and mouthed, "Doctor."


    Kris nodded in affirmation but waved his hand slightly to signal him that the doctor can wait.


    "Are you still crying..?" Kris asked after a long time.


    Lena shook her head, still cuddled in his arms.


    "You really gave me a fright..." Kris explained.


    "Why? What happened?" Lena pulled her head away from his chest and looked at him. He was slightly pale...


    Kris put his hands on her cheeks and wiped the tears from her face. He held her chin with one hand and planted a soft kiss on her lips.


    "I tried waking you up... but you wouldn''t wake up." Kris said. "What did you dream about?"


    "Home." Lena clasped her head on his chest again and closed her eyes. "Home sweet home that turned into a nightmare when there was no you. I never knew the world looked so... black and white without you. No one I knew here... existed.


    People said you were a dream, a figment of my imagination. Weeks went by, months... I was starting to think that... maybe you were really a dream. But something deep inside me kept telling me that.. you were real."


    Kris kissed the top of her head again and tightly squeezed her in his arms. "I am real. We are real. I won''t leave you."


    "Kris..."


    "Hmmm?"


    "You promised me before that you would find me wherever I am... So if someday, I am gone, don''t stop looking for me."


    "I promise. I won''t stop looking for you, ever.... And you can''t stop remembering me."


    "Mhm..."


    "Okay." Kris smiled. "Why don''t we get your face cleaned up and have the doctor come check you out."


    "Why?"


    "Sweetie... I would shot you with a gun and you would still be asleep."


    "Ehehehe..." Lena laughed, but she understood how serious it was.


    Lena tightly held Kris'' hand and they both walked into the bathroom. Lena washed her face gently, but she kept one hand on Kris the entire time. She didn''t want to part from Kris at all.


    When she was done, Kris helped dried her face and called in for the doctor.


    Lena sat on the sofa as the doctor examined her. The doctor checked Lena''s heart rate, blood pressure, and did some simple eye examination.


    "Have you been getting enough sleep, Miss. Shen?" The doctor asked.


    "I usually do. But today. I only slept for a bit that''s why I wanted to take a nap." Lena responded.


    "Anything to be causing you a lot of stress lately?"


    "Nothing out of the ordinary."


    "Are you pregnant?"


    Kris looked at Lena... and Lena looked at him back. She gave him a "What do you want" face. Shouldn''t he know that she''s not pregnant?! She''s on her damn period!!


    "No, I am not."


    "Ok." The doctor flipped through Lena''s charts. "I see that Dr. Linda is your primary doctor and you are... just taking some birth control pills at the moment? Any other medication?"


    "No, just that."


    "It seems like your body is just mentally and physically exhausted, that''s why your body shut down the way it is. I can prescribe you something to help you sleep---"


    "NO!" Lena interrupted him, she looked at Kris and Kris knew that she was scared. In her dream... when the doctor prescribed her something to help her sleep... she was forgetting Kris and everything here. She does not want that.


    "Don''t give her that." Kris spoke.


    "Ah.. Yes... If you''re still having trouble to sleep, try listening to some soothing music. Try not to eat too much before bed. Definitely restrain from anything that can cause stress for the next two weeks.


    If you can, make sure you exercise daily. And one thing I would recommend is to stop taking your pills for the time being. I can feel that your hormones imbalance is causing your body to go through some changes that may be unconsciously affecting you.


    I will talk to your doctor and she can prescribe you something different after you are feeling better again. I would recommend..." The doctor looked at Kris. "The man to use contraceptive until your back on the pill. And I will schedule a checkup appointment with Dr. Linda two weeks from now."


    "Ok, thanks." Lena replied.


    "Would you like to stay in the hospital overnight?"


    "Can I go home instead?" Lena asked.


    "Yes. But I would suggest you get a good night''s sleep and follow the things I told you about. I will go get you a packet of all the things I told you about, just in case you need a reminder."


    Lena nodded.


    "Thank, doctor." Kris spoke.


    The doctor left and Kris helped Lena get her items. Lena went to check up on Jackson one last time before leaving the hospital. His parents would be here later tonight anyways.


    Kris held Lena''s hand all the way until they reached his car. He took the food he brought earlier and put it at the backseat. He helped Lena get settled into her seat and then they drove off.


    "I am sorry..." Lena apologized. "You must have been busy today and yet you''re here."


    "Are you saying that your amazing boyfriend should be somewhere else instead of here when his girlfriend is sick?" Kris glanced and Lena and then smiled. "I wouldn''t want to be anywhere else but here, Lena."


    Lena turned her head and just looked at Kris while he drove. She felt like he was going to disappear and fade away at any moment.

 Chapter 293 - Leave it to me.

    When they reached home, they both went to Lena''s apartment. Lena sat on her sofa while Kris reheated the food. He wanted Lena to eat something before she went back to bed.


    Lena yawned several times. She was getting really sleepy but Kris was right, she needed to eat something before sleeping again.


    "About the case, leave it me, I can handle it for you."


    Lena had a spoonful of rice in her mouth. She looked at Kris for a dumb second and then her mind exploded. For her... it''s been like months but for everyone else, it had just been a few hours.


    Of course, she forgot about the case... her mind was only thinking of Kris.


    She quickly chewed the rice and swallowed it. "It''s fine. I can deal with it. It''s very small, and you''re busy."


    "I am busy... and it is small, that''s why I can take care of it. I wouldn''t be CEO Li if I can''t take care of you and this. Beside, doc said nothing stressful for you."


    "This isn''t stressful."


    "Becca will be here later."


    "WHAT!"


    "See, stress."


    "This..." Lena pouted.


    "The bomb was made by Becca.. but I feel like she''s not that stupid to leave her evidence to obvious. She will be coming by here when you''re asleep."


    "...." Lena continued to eat. "Just... just don''t kill her in my house, okay?"


    "Okay..." Kris smiled.


    "You can have the case. But... You can''t keep me out of the loop. I need to know every detail."


    "Sure... but only after the two weeks."


    "Kris!" Lena shouted.


    "You can play games all day."


    "Games can be stressful if you suck at it and people call you a noob."


    "You can draw then... take the time off and draw."


    ''Hmm... that''s does seem like a good idea.'' Lena thought. "Okay."


    "I will call your mother and tell her about your break. I''ll also stay with you for the two weeks until you''re good too."


    "Ahaha... That''s funny. A high CEO like you can''t just take a two-week vacation. Tyler Huang will take that time to take you out."


    "He can try me." Kris took a sip of water. "Do you not want me to stay with you?"


    Lena stopped eating and looked at him. ''Of course, I want you to stay with me...'' But she knew that with Kris... she also can''t be that greedy.


    "Can you stay with me... until then?" Lena asked.


    "Of course I can if you want me to." Kris smiled.


    "Yes."


    After their meal and coming into an agreement on how things were going to be for the next two weeks, Kris tucked Lena into bed. Lena was too sleepy to shower and sleep so she just went to bed She knew that she will wake up later at midnight anyway, and she can take a shower then.


    Kris stayed with Lena until she was asleep. Even then, he continued to stay with her until Becca texted him that she was on the elevator right now, going up to his penthouse.


    Kris: Stop at Lena''s floor. We will chat there.


    Becca glanced at the text she received from Kris. She was hoping to get some alone time with him, but he wants her at the bitch''s place? What is that Lena up to now?


    Becca: Okay


    After a few minutes, Becca arrived on the floor. before she can even get to the door, Kris already opened the door. Kris did not want Becca to ring the bell or knock on the door in case it wakes up Lena.


    "Gently close the door." Kris spoke and then walked to the living room. He sat down on the sofa as Becca entered the room.


    Becca did not sit and just stood up.


    "Lena is sleeping, I don''t want to raise my voice."


    "Did... did I do something wrong, Boss?"


    "Depends." Kris looked at Becca then took out a file of the paper. "There was a bomb at the Marriot where one of the lawyers and a key witness in the case Lena''s involve in."


    "Yes, I heard it on the new today."


    "Since you are an expert in a bombing, I was hoping you can look at these photos and tell me about the bomb." Kris threw the file onto the table.


    "Yes, boss." Becca bent her knees on the floor and looked through the photos.


    She organized the photos and then stopped. "What is this...? Is this a joke?" She looked at Kris.


    "You should tell me." Kris spoke softly.


    "I...." Becca knew what the situation was. She immediately bent her head down to the floor and bowed down. "I didn''t do it, boss. Trust me. I have nothing to do with this."


    "But that bomb is yours... you''re telling me that someone else was able to copy your signature?"


    "I DIDN"T DO IT!" Becca panicked.


    "Shh..." Kris took out the gun he had sitting on the side of the sofa and put on the silencer. Without even lifting her head, Becca knew what Kris was doing. "Didn''t I say Lena was asleep?"


    "..." Becca was scared. She knew how scary Kris can be. "I really did not do it. The bomb is indeed mine, no doubt, but I have nothing to do with this."


    "Lena said I shouldn''t make a mess here... but it only takes a few hours to clean off the mess, right?"


    "Tyler Huang," Becca exclaimed. "Since you have my task with infiltrating the Huangs, Tyler is the only one who knew that I can make bombs. To keep up with my identity and have his trust... I have made three bombs for him."


    Becca waited for Kris to say something but he didn''t. She still has her head down low, not making a single movement.


    "I... I know he likes the Lady Boss... and he.. he knows that I have been with you lately. I think he is trying to frame me to make a good impression for the Lady Boss."


    "What? You''re saying that he will get rid of you for Lena?"


    "Yes... that''s what I would do." Becca lifted her head a bit. "Kris... you know I have feelings for you. But I will also never harm you. I would also get rid of anyone who comes between you and Lena.. if that makes you happy. That''s love... crazy love. I would have killed Tyler already but we need him... to get the information we need."


    There was a long silence while Kris thought through what Becca said. "You have 24 hours to prove that Tyler planted the bomb. And I need to know what he is doing with the other two. If not, I want you to retrieve those back in your possession. Do. You. Understand?"

 Chapter 294 - I want no mistakes.

    "Yes... I understand, Boss."


    "24 hours, Becca."


    Becca nodded. "Anything else?"


    "It took Lena one night to get the blueprint of the Huang''s secret base... Becca, I don''t know if you are an asset or dead weight."


    Becca''s heart stopped. "I am sorry, Boss. I will assure you that I am not dead weight. I will have your proof in 24 hours and retrieve the two bombs back."


    "That''s good." Kris placed his gun back on the sofa and patted Becca''s head. "You''re always family, don''t fail me or my mother."


    Becca smiled. ''KRIS TOUCHED ME!'' Her heart was very happy. It was the first time that Kris voluntary praised her nor touched her.


    "I won''t!"


    "Leave now."


    "Yes, Boss!"


    Becca left with a big smile on her face.


    On the other hand, once the door closed and Becca left, Kris immediately went to the kitchen and rubbed his hand with soap several times.


    He breathed in and out. He looked at his hand and felt that it was slightly shaking. He walked to Lena''s bedroom and jumped onto the bed.


    He lifted up the blanket and hugged Lena tightly. He could sense that Lena felt his presence and made a noise of waking up.


    "Go back to sleep..." Kris whispered to her ear and he hugged her. He closed his eyes and breathed in the sweet smell of her.


    After Kris felt like his mind and body were calmed... he gently kissed Lena on the forehead and then got off the bed.


    He hid away the gun somewhere in Lena''s apartment and then grabbed his phone.


    "Yes, Boss?"


    "Becca will go back to meet with Tyler tonight or tomorrow morning. I want you to have eyes on her. If she does not bring back the two bombs he made for him, take her out on the spot."


    "And if she does bring back the bombs?"


    "Go with the initial plan." Kris smirked. "I want no mistakes."


    "Yes, Boss!"


    Kris hung up the call but then called his mother.


    "Hello, Mom."


    "Kris! I heard on the news that there was a bomb with the case against Lena. Is she alright?"


    "No. She''s pretty shaken up. I''ll be taking off work to spend time with her."


    "Aiya... my sweet child. How about I come to visit her tomorrow and make her some good warm soup?"


    "No. Don''t come to visit us at all."


    "Why?!" Madam Li raised her voice. "I have not seen her ages and you can''t stop me from coming to see her."


    "It seems like my mother was not serious when she said she wanted grandchildren. If that is so, you can come to visit us anytime."


    "Of course I want grandchildren, I don''t see why.... oh. OH!!!" Madam Li finally realized what Kris meant by not coming to visit them. "You enjoy your break. I will take good care of the company. Collin is on break too right? He''s getting married next week. Don''t worry, you both have your fun, I will be a good Madam."


    Madam Li squealed and hung up the call.


    Collin was indeed getting married next week. But that doesn''t mean Kris can''t prepare for his own wedding... right? He smiled.


    He had a few more phone calls to make before he go and make dinner for Lena. He made sure to call her parents and tell them that she was fine. He will take her back home when she is better.


    Shen Mao was yelling at Kris about him not taking good care of his daughter while Shen Milli was telling Kris to not return Lena back to them.


    Kris just smiled and talked to both of them normally.


    After he was done, he went to the kitchen to see what items Lena have. He noticed the fridge was very split. She had some items here and half of it in his place.


    He was wondering if they should really just get a place together already so that they don''t have to keep splitting things and choosing where to stay for the night.


    He went up to his penthouse, grab some more ingredients and brought it back down to Lena''s Kitchen. He was still not a master chef, but he can still make something fulfilling for Lena.


    Kris made sure to check on Lena very so often.


    Kris called K9 and K12 to check up on Jackson. His parents arrived already and they are with him. They already set a place for the parents and a nearby hotel for them.


    It looked like there was a lot for Kris to take care of, but none of these is something new. He was used to the multiple tasks.


    After a while when he was done cooking already, Lena finally woke up. She opened her bedroom door slightly and just stared at Kris who was sitting on the sofa, looking at some paperwork.


    "You''re awake?" Kris looked up to her.


    "Yeah..." Lena spoke. "I was just starting to see if there are any bloodstains on my carpet."


    "No... if my sweetie says no then there will be none." Kris got up and kissed Lena on the forehead "Why don''t you go ready and I''ll reheat dinner?"


    Lena nodded.


    After a few minutes, she got out and Kris was just done reheating the food. She felt like she just ate a bit ago and was not hungry... but she did not want to deny Kris'' food.


    As she ate, Kris told her that everything has been taken care of. He didn''t give her details but just to assure her that everything was settled.


    After dinner, they watched some movies together, took a shower together and then went to bed.


    Lena had been sleeping a lot, so the next morning, she woke up very early. She made sure Kris was still next to her before getting up from the bed.


    She got ready and this time, she made breakfast for them. Kris woke up shortly afterward.


    "So, when are you going out?" Lena asked him as she handed him his plate of food.


    "9. I''ll be gone for only a few hours regarding your case then I''ll be home by 1 pm for lunch," Kris replied.


    "Okay."


    "I also have a real estate agent coming here by then."


    "Why?"


    "I don''t want you to be lonely while I am gone. You can look at some nice homes with her while I am out. And then on Monday, we can go and look at the top 5 you choose."


    "Our home?" Lena smiled. "A home for just us... or a marriage home?"


    "Whatever you want. Both.. all of them, whatever. Any home with Lena is home. You will be the woman of the house so you can choose whatever, baby." Kris got up and kissed Lena on the lips. "And breakfast was tasty.... but it was missing some love."


    Lena chuckled and kissed him back.


    The doctor said Lena should exercise when she can so after breakfast and resting a bit, Lena and Kris went to exercise for an hour. They both took another shower together and then Lena helped Kris get dress.

 Chapter 295 - Be smart and make the right decision.

    Lena was tying Kris'' tie when the doorbell rang.


    "Oh, that must be the real estate lady. I''ll go get the door." She quickly finished and ran out to greet the woman.


    "Hello! Come in." Lena spoke.


    "Morning, Miss. Shen. I am Kylee."


    "Hello, Kylee."


    Kris got out of the bedroom and smiled at the agent. He put a hand on Lena''s waist and pulled her closer to him.


    "I''ll see you then. Don''t have too much fun spending my money." He gave Lena a kiss on the cheeks.


    "No guarantee..." Lena replied.


    Kris went out of the front door instead and used the normal elevators.


    After Kris left, Lena leads Kylee to her office room where they can look at houses there.


    "How long have you both been married?" Kylee asked.


    "Oh... we''re not married."


    "Going to?"


    "Something like that." Lena replied.


    "Well, Mr. Li did not specify what kind of mansion you were looking for... just that it should have a nice view. I have several choices here, from small to big."


    Kylee handed Lena a tablet and started showing Lena each selection.


    =====


    Before Kris left, he made sure the security on the ground level were staff with his men. Collin was on a break as he is finalizing his wedding with Stella. So instead, he was going out with Keso.


    Keso came and picked up Kris. They then drove immediately to their destination.


    "Are you sure she is here?" Kris asked Keso when they arrived.


    "Yes. And she has no security. She is still in her room since she just ordered foodservice awhile ago."


    "Good."


    Kris got out of the car and Keso followed Kris inside the hotel. They went to the elevator and hit the 30th floor.


    Keso took the lead once they arrived. He walked over to room 3025 and knocked on the door.


    "Be right there!" A woman''s voice could be heard.


    At the next second, the door opened and the woman looked at Keso. "You''re not food service."


    "Sorry to intrude Miss. Mikayla, but my boss wants to speak to you."


    "Your boss??"


    At that, Kris walked past Keso and entered the room.


    "Mr.. Mr. Li!" Mikayla exclaimed.


    "I thought they would have given you a suite..." Kris looked around the room. It was just a normal hotel room.


    "Mr. Li... You shouldn''t just come into someone''s hotel room like this."


    "Relax woman... someone must be really blind if they want to get anything from you." Kris blunty replied.


    "...." Keso also walked in and closed the door. He stood by the door as if not letting Mikayla out.


    "I... If you are here about the case with Miss. Shen, then I cannot speak to you without my lawyer."


    "Ah... and which one is that now? Didn''t they change it to a newbie now? First chair got arrested, the second chair was moved to a better case and now they left you with a newbie."


    "What do you want?" Mikayla sat down on the sofa across from Kris.


    "I don''t want anything." Kris smiled. "I have just been feeling so nice lately... I thought I would just give you some tips."


    "Tips..? I don''t need any tips, Mr. Li."


    "Miss. Mikayla... don''t you know why it''s your name suing the Shen company and not the company? And don''t you know why they gave you a newbie lawyer now instead?"


    "...." Mikayla did not reply back.


    "All this... is just for some publicity. If you win the case... that is unlikely, but let''s just say IF... you get the money, and your company gets rich. And if you lose the case... which is 1000% the case at this moment, your company doesn''t get damaged. They can just fire you and say that you sue the SHYNE company by yourself and they have nothing to do with the decision."


    "What makes you think I won''t win the case?"


    "You must be really stupid to think that you can win the case. Don''t you see, whether you win or lose, the company still benefits? You know very well whether those designs were yours or you stole it."


    Kris threw a file onto the table.


    "We have evidence of you taking money from the dead witness. We have a video of you making contact with him. Timestamps show when you submitted the designs.


    Even with that, the original designers also use real-time recording when they design... because they use the software. That already proved the months of time they used to design it whereas you suddenly and magically designed this... in a week?"


    "..." Mikayla was lost for words. Her lawyer said that those were cleared from the system. How did Mr. Li obtain them? "What.. what do you want me to do?"


    "As I said before, I don''t want you to do anything. I am just here to give you some tips."


    "What is your tip?"


    "Be smart and make the right decision."


    Mikayla looked at the pile of evidence on the table.


    "You have a live TV appearance tonight... drop your charges and tell everyone the truth." Kris suggested.


    "And if I do?"


    "I think the correct question is if you don''t... then what? Well, let''s just say... when I take you down, you''ll wish you were dead." Kris spoke. "You''re still young... one small mistake and you can still rise from it."


    "He''ll... he''ll kill me if I do that."


    "Who?"


    "..." Mikayla was scared. "I won''t tell you unless you get me out of the country after I go live."


    "Done." Kris nodded at Keso.


    "Mike.... Mike Zhao." Mikayla stuttered. "He... he said he''ll only marry me if I can win this case."


    "Does he know your pregnant?" Kris asked.


    "You... how did you know?"


    "You kept touching your stomach... does he know?"


    "No.. I was going to tell him later."


    "Don''t. He''s engaged with the daughter of the Bai family... you think he would risk all that for a nobody? He wouldn''t care if your pregnant or not."


    Mikalya started crying. "He.. he said he''ll leave her for me."


    Kris rolled his eyes. ''Stupid woman... thank god his Lena is not like this.''


    "Go live on the show and afterward, Keso here will personally escort you to a private jet that will take you somewhere out of the country. That''s all I can do for you."


    Mikayla did not say anything afterward. Kris did not want to stay in this room longer with such a stupid woman. He stood up and started to leave.


    "Wait..." Mikayla sniffed. "Nina Long.... she, she has something planned for Miss. Shen."


    Kris stopped and turned around to look at her. "What?"


    "I... I don''t know. But she was discussing it very long with Mike."


    Kris gave the broken woman once last glance before walking out. Keso closed the door and followed Kris out.


    "I''ll get the jet ready." Keso spoke.


    "What jet?" Kris hit the elevator button.


    "You just said that..." Keso now understood what Kris meant. There was no jet.. Kris just lied to the woman. His boss was so mean.

 Chapter 296 - Extra Exercise (1)

    When Kris and Keso got to the car, Bella gave Kris a called.


    "I got it the bombs... and evidence. I can meet you at your place in half an hour."


    "I''m busy. Keso will come and pick up the stuff."


    "Alright," Bella replied and the call ended.


    Kris looked at his watch. He still has two hours before going back home to be with Lena.


    "Stop at the company." Kris spoke.


    Keso nodded and drove toward the company. After a 20 minute drive, he parked and stopped the car.


    "Get out."


    "Ah?" Keso looked at Kris.


    "I''m dropping you off here. You can take one of the company cars. Go pick up the bombs from Bella and take the evidence from her. I want Gary to analyze the evidence to make sure it''s real."


    "Yes, Boss."


    Keso got out of the driver seat while Kris got into it. Without another word, Kris slammed on the gas and drove out.


    It was a short drive until Kris got the store he wanted. He parked the car and walked in. Immediately, some of the shoppers looked at Kris and smiled at him.


    An attendant rushed up to Kris and greeted him.


    "Welcome, Mr. Li."


    "I''m looking for a gift."


    "Yes... right this way to our exclusive items." The young woman led Kris to a different part of the room.


    As they walk in, the young lady pointed out several of the new items they have. Kris looked at them and then shook his head.


    "I want something... less."


    "Cheaper?" The lady asked.


    "No." Kris glared at her. Does she think the price is a problem for him?


    "Oh.... Um... yes.. less. I can show you what we have over here." The attendant walked over to a different room.


    As they arrived, Kris smiled. Yes... this was what he was looking for.


    He walked around and start grabbing a few selections from the racks. He chose about 7 sets and then walked out.


    "I want them wrapped and individually bagged nicely."


    "Yes, sir."


    Kris handed the lady his credit card and then went back to the waiting room until she returned with his items. He thanked her and then left.


    He still has some time left so he stopped by a bakery and got something sweet for Lena.


    He stopped by Lena''s apartment first, but she was not there. He immediately called her and she picked up.


    "Hmm?" Lena answered the phone.


    "Where are you?"


    "On the rooftop, it''s better to draw up here."


    "Ok. I got you some scones."


    "OOHHH.... i love scones."


    "I''ll be right up."


    "Okay."


    Kris went up to the rooftop and he spotted Lena outside, with a light sweater and drawing on her tablet. He walked over, kissed her cheek really quick and then placed the box of scones on the table.


    "What''s that?" Lena pointed to the bags that Kris was holding.


    "Your presents."


    "Oh? Can I see?"


    Lena went in to grab it but Kris moved them behind him. "Not yet."


    "Why?"


    "Cuz... there''s a time for presents."


    "Ok... How was your morning then? A success?"


    "Of course." He smiled. "And yours?"


    "Yes!"


    Lena got up from her long balcony chair and went and sat on Kris'' lap. She changed her tablet to the website that Kylee was showing her before.


    "I choose 5 houses." Lena scroll through them for him.


    "Ok. We can go see them on Monday and choose a final one if there is a specific one you like."


    Lena put the tablet down and looked at Kris. She put a hand on his shoulder, turned her head alittle, and gave him a sweet kiss on the lips.


    "I think you spoil me too much." She kissed him again. "I might turn lazy."


    "That''s fine." Kris kissed her back. "I''ll make money to raise you fat and plump."


    "Stop it... don''t make fun of me." Lena slapped his arm.


    "I''m not making fun of you." Kris laughed.


    He picked Lena up and stood up from the chair.


    "Hey... what are you----AH!" Lena screeched. "KRIS!!"


    Kris had dropped Lena to the pool and she was now drenched.


    "The water is cold!" Lena pouted. "And these are new clothes!"


    "I know what will make you warm." Kris took off his outer suit jacket. He unbuttoned his shirt and threw it on the ground.


    "...."


    Kris took a few steps back and then jumped into the pool with Lena. He splashed some water at her when he jumped in.


    Lena tried to swim back to the side of the pool but Kris grabbed her legs from under the water and pulled her down.


    "AH!" She let out on scream before her body sank into the water.


    Kris pulled her down and then grabbed her face and pulled her in for a kiss... underwater. He prived her mouth opened and dived into her sweet mouth.


    It was just a quick one before they both came back to the surface. Lena was panting hard, trying to catch her breath, while Kris just held her waist and teased her some more.


    "Stop it..." Lena gave him pinch on the arm. "We already confirmed that kissing under the water does not work as in the movies."


    "I know..." Kris pulled her closer to him and kissed her nose. "But don''t you think I look hotter when I am like this?"


    Lena paused and looked at him. His hair was pushed back from the water. His abs were absolutely hot... and teasing just make everything about him sexier.


    "Yeah.." She blushed.


    Kris chuckled at her shy response.


    "I''m cold." Lena spoke.


    "Ok. Don''t want you catching a cold." Kris got out of the pool first and helped Lena get out. "Want to try the hot tub instead?" Kris pointed at the tub.


    "You''re really energetic today," Lena observed.


    "It''s not every day that I can take a two-week-long vacation and be with my favorite person." He smiled sweetly at her.


    "Ok. Should I go get my swimsuit on?"


    "No. Just get naked." Kris walked over to the hot tub and removed its cover.


    Kris'' hot tube is always heated even though it is unused. It is so that it can be used anytime without waiting for it to heat up. Kris could pay for the bills so he always has the tub heat up and ready.


    Kris entered the hot tub first and held his hand out for Lena.


    "You weren''t serious on the naked part right?"


    "No."


    "Okay..." Lena walked over and got into the tub with him. She immediately felt the warmth of the tub.


    "Are you cold now?" Kris asked.


    "No... I''m warm."


    Lena closed her eyes and enjoy the bubbles of the hot tub.


    After a few minutes, she felt Kris kissing her neck.


    "Kris..." Lena opened her eyes and then suddenly he kissed her lips.


    Both of her hands were up, and touching his rough chest as he softly kissed her. This time, since they were not underwater, Kris took his time with her.

 Chapter 297 - Extra Exercise (2) (R-18)

    One of his hand crawled to the back of her bra and unclipped it.


    "Ah.. Kris."


    Kris moved that hand back to the front and grabbed one of her free breasts. He let her mouth be free and his kissed trailed down to her neck.


    "Ah... We''re.... outside."


    "So."


    Kris slid his other hand down Lena''s underpants and touched her sensitive spot down there.


    "Kris..." She jerked back from the sudden touch but let out a soft moan.


    "Do you want me to stop?" Kris asked... but with a teasing tone. He tickled her sensitive spot below and Lena put a hand over her mouth.


    "We''re.. outside."


    "That doesn''t answer my question, baby..." Kris softly inserted his middle finger inside her and Lena let out a soft cry. He moved up closer to her ear. "Do you.. want me to stop, babe?"


    "...." Lena put a hand on his shoulder and grabbed it. "No.."


    "What did you say?"


    "NO!" Lena moved her hip to sync it with how Kris was sticking his finger inside of her.


    Kris used his hand that was fumbling with her breast before and grabbed her hand that was covering her mouth. "No one''s going to hear you. It''s just us."


    "Ah...MHnnnn... You''re so meannn! AH!" Lena let out a louder voice when he stuck in two fingers.


    Lena could feel the warm water entering deep inside of her as he takes his fingers out and in of her.


    Kris bit Lena''s ear and whispered to her. "C''mon sweetie... come for me." He spoke to her as he quickened his pace down below. He could feel that Lena was tightening and squeezing his fingers.


    Kris licked the bottom of her ear and Lena gave up. She let out a loud voice and collapsed to the seat of the hot tub. Kris removed his fingers from Lena and licked them.


    As he let Lena catch her breath, Kris stood up and took off his belt.


    He removed the rest of his clothes and Lena stared at his hard bulging membrane. She knew what was coming next.


    "I want you... Lena."


    She looked up to his sexy face and smiled. She stood up, although still a bit wobbly, wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. "Sure."


    Kris smiled back at her before taking her lips one more time.


    Lena trailed her right arm down his chest.... felling his abs and then grasping his hard rod. She gave it a soft rub as they continued to kiss. Kris was completely naked, but Lena was still very much dressed. Her clothes were drenched.


    Kris moaned from her soft touch. He parted his mouth from her and started to take off her pants. However, he only pulled it down to her knees and then turned her over. He wanted her.. now.


    Lena put her hands on the edge of the hot tub, her back against Kris. Without removing her underwear, he slid the bottom of it to the side and entered her with a hard thrust.


    "Ahh..." Lena continued to let her voice be free.


    Her hands were tightly on the edge of the hot tub as Kris thrust in and out of her. The water continued to splash from his hard movements.


    Kris bend down and grabbed her chin. He turned it toward him and kissed her while he was banging her from behind. His other hand was on her thighs, pushing it toward him each time he entered her.


    He stopped kissing her and straightened his back and he fastened his pace.


    "Ah... You''re so tight."


    "More... Mhnnn... More Kris..." Lena replied. "Yes... Ahhh....."


    Kris tried to reach deeper and deeper inside of her. He licked her back and Lena shuddered from the sensation. Her upper body was not in the warm water so Kris'' tongue licking her gave her a new sensation.


    Kris could feel her tightly squeezing him when he did that to her.


    "Lena..."


    Lena knew that he was close to coming.


    "Kris..."


    "Where...where do you want me to come?"


    At first, Lena was confused.. and then she remembered that the doctor told her to stop taking her pill and that Kris should be using condoms instead.


    Before Lena could reply, Kris removed his hard membrane from inside of her and released it outside.  He sprayed it all over Lena''s back. He panted as he softly rubbed his hard membrane on her butt crack.


    "Sorry... I was too rushed, I forgot." Kris spoke as Lena sat in the bathtub to clean herself.


    She removed her top and the rest of her clothes so that she was as naked as Kris.


    "That''s fine." She gave him a kiss. "You remembered at the end... and I didn''t."


    Kris was always considering her opinion.


    Kris sat down on the hot tub and looked at Lena''s naked body. It was still bright outside, so he could completely see Lena.


    "Do... do you have one?" Lena asked.


    "Yeah." Kris stood up again and went to get his pants. He pulled out his wet wallet from the pocket. He dumped out all his credit cards and then dig through the pockets until he found the condom hidden in there.


    Lena looked at how secretly placed he hid the condom and at the massive amount of cards he kept in his wallet.


    "Isn''t that the wallet I bought for you?"


    Kris turned around and looked at Lena. "It''s waterproof. Wasn''t that why you bought it?"


    She laughed. "It''s okay. I can buy you a new one... with your money."


    "Well then... Miss. Shen, you should work hard for spending my money."


    "Is that so...?"


    Lena grabbed the condom from Kris and ripped it open with her teeth. She tossed the wrapper to the side and then put the condom onto Kris. It was her first time putting it onto a real one... so she was very gentle.


    After she was done putting it on him, she stepped back and looked at her amazing work.


    "Which flavor is this?"


    Kris looked down at the pink condom and shrugged. "Strawberry?"


    Lena also shrugged. She bent down on her knees and grabbed Kris'' rod. It felt different when she touched it. She put her mouth on the tip and sucked on it... tasting the flavor of the condom.


    She swallowed the taste and smiled. "Bubblegum."

 Chapter 298 - Extra Exercise (3) (R-18)

    Kris touched Lena''s lips and then pulled her in for a kiss. He stuck his tongue inside her, twirled it once and then let her go.


    He wiped his lips and smiled. "Bubblegum."


    Lena put her hands on his shoulder and pushed him to sit down. She put her legs on the side of him and sat on his lap.


    "We''re so shameless to be doing this in broad daylight." Lena nibbled on his lips.


    Kris put a hand on her plump breast and fondled it gently. Lena arched her head back so Kris can entirely have access to her neck and collarbone.


    He sucked on them, marking his territory on her in several places. Lena moaned from the sweet sensation, teasing his hard membrane.


    After he was done, Lena stood up. She grabbed his hard er*ction, guide it her awaiting entrance and slid it right in. She instant felt the rubber sliding against her encaving flesh. There was now new barrier between her and Kris, but she can still feel how hard and big he was.


    "Ah..." Kris let out a soft sound of relief when he was finally inside her again. "Are you going to start moving?"


    Lena looked at him and shook her head. "I have to embrace this memorable first time."


    Kris squinted his eyes at her. She needed to embrace everything they tried new together.


    Kris held her soft tender thighs and roughly moved his hips upward, making his hard rod entering her deeper.


    "AH!!" Lena was caught off guard by his sudden movements. She was still enjoying her bubblegum. She immediately placed her hand on his shoulder so she would not fall and started moving up and down with his movements.


    "Ah... yes!" Lena could not stop the moans from escaping. Of course, raw s*x was way better but she could still feel the pleasure of him hitting her deepest parts.


    Her eyes were wide open and her mouth gaped wide open as she looked at the man in front of her.


    "Ah... Kiss me... Kiss me, baby." Lena pleaded.


    Kris grabbed the back on her neck and pulled her to him. He collapsed his mouth with hers and kissed her senseless as she continued to ride him.


    He lifted her up and sat her down on the edge of the pool. He stood up on his feet and thrust inside her again.


    Lena placed her hands on the rough ground and gasped from the continuous deep insertions. She continued to swallow him whole, her walls squeezing him tightly.


    Now, they can clearly hear the sound of their slippery we love juice resounding. Kris clenched his teeth as he crazily entered Lena and pull out. He grabbed her legs, spread it wide and thrust inside her.


    "Ah... Kris..." Lena screamed his name.


    With this position, Kris was able to reach the entrance of her womb with every single thrust. It was a combination of pleasure and a short moment of pain as he hit her back entrance.


    Lena wrapped her arms on his broad shoulders and screamed his name as he compulsed and finished inside her. She also panted heavily as she found her own climax too.


    Kris stayed inside her for a good second before leaving her. He removed the condom and looked at the hot liquid that was entrapped in it.


    He tossed it aside and carried Lena inside the house.


    "Let''s take a break." He said to her as she was still recovering from her euphoria.


    Of course, this thirst has not yet sufficed, but he has Lena all to himself for the next week. He also does not want to exhaust Lena too much. After all, she was supposed to have plenty of rest.


    They both got into the shower and washed clean. Kris got out first and dried his hair. By the time Lena was out, he was in a bathrobe and waiting to dry her hair.


    He handed Lena''s bathrobe and she put it on. She sat on the chair as Kris dried her hair.


    When he was done, he pushed Lena''s hair to one side and kissed her nap.


    "Are you ready for your present?" Kris'' soft breathed tickled Lena''s skin.


    "Present?"


    "You can open one tonight."


    "Oh? Yes. I love presents." Lena turned around and pecked Kris on the lips.


    Kris held her hand and brought her back to his room. On his bed,  the 7 bags that he carried in before we neatly laid. They all had the same bags so Lena did not know which one to choose.


    "Do I get a hint?" She looked at Kris.


    "They''re all the same. But each one has a special... occasion."


    "..."


    Lena walked and was about to grab the second bag, but instead, she went for the last one.


    She excitedly removed the useless tissue paper and grabbed out the item.


    ''It feels... like clothes...? Hmm but so think.'' Lena thought, as she grabbed the entire item and stuck it out of the bag.


    "KRIS!" She suddenly screamed his name when she found out what she was holding. It was intimate lingerie.


    "What? I took so long to choose the one you would like." He smiled at her.


    He walked up to Lena, grabbed the panties out of her hand. Standing behind her, his long arms stretched out and held the panty to her bottom.


    "See... perfect size."


    "Why would I wear something this cute when it''s only going to be taken off?"


    "Who said I would take it off?"


    Lena looked closer at it and noticed that it was an open-laced panty.


    Kris hugged her gently behind and rested his chin on her shoulder.


    "I am already wearing cond*ms... can you wear this for me?" He asked her nicely. "I just want to see you baby in this."


    Lena sighed. "Fine."


    Kris smiled and gave her a kiss on the cheek.


    "Where''s the top?" Lena noticed that the bag was empty and there was only the bottom piece.


    "Why wear something I will only take off?" Kris smiled. "C''mon, get dress and I''ll make us dinner."


    Kris gave Lena a bright smile and then exited the room. Lena looked at the pantie and blushed. She just took a shower and but she can feel her body already feeling warm just thinking about herself wearing this. She wondered what the other items were and what occasion...?


    While Lena got into her pajamas, Kris went into the kitchen and he received several texts.


    Keso: You were right


    Keso: The evidence was tampered with


    Keso: Waiting for your reply before we move in

 Chapter 299 - You are relieved from your duty.

    Kris: On my signal.


    Kris sent the message to Keso and then his mind went to focus on what he was going to cook for Lena. He had not learned any new recipes. Should he go for ramen...? No, Lena needed to eat something with good nutrients.


    Lena finished getting dress and went out to see Kris standing helpless in the kitchen. He was just plainly staring at the ingredients in the refrigerator.


    "Meat." Lena shouted from behind him.


    "Are you not tired of meat?" Kris was referring to his meat.


    "Meat is good." Lena walked over and picked up the pork ribs from the fridge. "I''ll be the master chef and you can be the assistance."


    Kris put his hand up and stepped away from the fridge. "Ai, chef!"


    With both of them cooking together, it did not take long until there was delicious food on the table.


    After a good dinner and replenishing their energy, Lena went back out the rooftop and cleaned up there mess while Kris picked a movie for them to watch.


    When Lena came back, she made sure to bring the scones that were left on the rooftop.


    Lena cuddled in with Kris on the sofa and they watched a comedy movie. Half-way through, she was already dozing off and a few minutes later, Lena fell asleep.


    Kris continued to watch the movie until it was finished. He knew that it was Lena''s usually time to sleep since her sleep schedule was messed up. He carefully picked her up and brought her to the guestroom where the soft bed was.


    He knew that Lena only liked sleeping on his bed if she just ended up there to be with him.


    "Goodnight, Lena." He kissed her on the forehead, the nose, and the lips before leaving the room and closing the door.


    He looked at his watch to see what time it was. If Lena was napping, she would wake up in about three hours... so he had three hours to come back.


    He walked up the stairs to go back up the rooftop. He rolled up his sleeves and hit the button hidden in the hot tube to access his secret area where he kept his guns.


    The room was barely lit but he knew where he kept everything. He walked up to a cabinet, unlocked it and took out a case. He placed the case on the table, opened it and inspect the weapon.


    "Perfect."


    He closed it back and up exited the room.


    Just in case Lena woke up and he was not around, he left her a note on the table. He grabbed his things, put on a jacket, and left the penthouse.


    When he got into his car, he went into the passenger drawer and took out an earphone. He turned it on and then drove out.


    "How''s Alpha team?" Kris adjusted his earphone and microphone.


    "In position."


    "And Becca?"


    "Where she should be right now. Distracting CEO Huang."


    "Good." Kris stepped on the gas.


    After a good few minutes, he parked his car in an underground lot. He dragged out a suitcase and entered the elevator. He stopped at the 80th floor and knocked on a room.


    It immediately opened and two men greeted him.


    "Boss!" The spoke but not very loudly.


    "How''s is she?"


    "..." Both of the men looked at each other.


    Kris ignored their slow response. He set his suitcase on the table and opened it.


    He took the sniper rifle out and positioned it on the window, hand on the trigger and eyes on the scope.


    It only took him a second before he got eyes on the room Becca was in.


    "Guess a woman knows how to have fun before she dies..." Kris muttered but both of the men heard him perfectly.


    Becca was pinned to the window, as CEO Huang made love to her from behind.


    Tonight was the night Kris was going to use the bomb Becca brought back against the Huangs. He had been patient with them for a long time now... but he needed to get rid of them now and her.


    Becca''s only command was to distract the CEO... it was her decision to use whatever method she needed to complete the task. It was not a surprise to Kris that Becca chose this method. After all, she is one who has completed the art of seduction.


    Of course, the skill does not work on everyone... but it is something that not everyone possesses.


    Kris glanced at the clock and then focused on the two people continuing their exercise. Only ten more minutes.


    As the clock ticked down to the last 30 seconds, Keso spoke through the earphone.


    "We got the package. Two injured but we are all out now."


    "Target has arrived." One of the men in the room spoke.


    "Eyes on the Kill 1 confirm." The other man addressed.


    "Kill 2 confirmed." Kris spoke, his eyes still focused on the target and fingers steady on the trigger. "Shoot in 10."


    It felt like the longest 10 seconds in the room.


    CEO Huang stopped midway through his "exercise" and looked angry as he picked up a phone call. However, at the point, he suddenly started shouting and then---.


    *Bang*


    *Bang*


    The man next to Kris shot CEO Huang with a clear headshot while Kris pulled his trigger and hit Becca in the heart... or so, at least close enough to it.


    Becca immediately fell back into the bed, her eyes wide opened, as she gasped for air.


    CEO Huang was dead on the ground and she was shot in the chest. She slowly put her hand on her wound and looked at the ceiling. She felt the warmth from her body escaping.


    Kris'' eye was still on the scope... waiting.


    "Don''t fail me.... brother." He whispered.

 Chapter 300 - Happy 1-year anniversary

    "Target has arrived." The man on lookout spoke.


    Right on cue, the hotel door forced open and a young man entered the room. He quickly spotted CEO Huang but ignored him, walking over the dead body. He immediately rushed to Becca''s side and put pressure on her wound.


    At the point, a sigh of relief escaped from Kris. He took his eyes off the scope and stood up.


    "Let''s pack and go." Kris commanded.


    In 5 minutes, Kris and the two men exited the building and drove out far from the area. As they leave, the streets were echoing with sounds of sirens. For sure this will be the top news for an awhile.


    Kris drove to an undisclosed location where he would be meeting up with his best friends. When he arrived, he also took his suitcase along with him.


    He entered the room and everyone was already drinking and having a good celebration.


    Kris nodded at them and head to a different room where he can put away the suitcase. As he was removing the sniper rifle from the case and setting it in its new home, he heard the door opened then it closed.


    "Why not a skills shot?" Ming asked. "It''s not like you to miss."


    "She''s not mine to kill, since from the beginning," Kris replied with no interest.


    "Well, I hope you know what you are doing, Kris. It better be worth it."


    Kris stopped and looked at Ming. "He betrayed me... but he was right, I also betrayed him when I left him alone in that place. If I would have killed her... he would have left with more guilt." Kris zipped up the suitcase and tossed it on the floor.


    "Ace...." Kris walked up to Ming. "He needs to kill that woman himself. Least I can do is let him move on from it." He patted Ming on the shoulder and then left.


    Ming sighed. He chugged his beer can and threw it in the trash. "Stupid first love."


    Kris did not stay long with everyone. He needed to go back and be with Lena. He also did not want her to learn about this just yet... this was just the beginning.


    He made sure everyone was preparing for the next tasks and then left. When he got back, he went to Lena''s apartment first. She was out of clothes to wear at his place so he wanted to stop by and grab her fresh clothes.


    He entered her bedroom, walked into her massive closet and into her land of clothes. He opened a drawer and chose to set of pajamas for her. Before he closed it... he spotted a box of something pushed at the top of the drawer.


    It looked like it was going to fall down. He set the clothes down and reached for the box.


    The big-box suddenly fell down and opened its content... of several smaller boxes.


    Kris frowned and picked up one of the boxes. And then... he chuckled.


    "Guess she''s not the only one prepared."


    He picked up the small boxes and put them back in the bigger one. He shoved it back on top of the top shelf.


    However, he made sure to bring one box with him.


    After selecting a few more items, he finally went back to his penthouse. When the elevator door prived open, Lena was popped out and greeted him.


    "BOO!!" Lena shouted.


    "...." Kris did not react at all.


    "I swear if our kids are as unemotional as you... my motherhood life will be tortured with 6 little Kris."


    "I like that sound of that." Kris smiled and walked in with the giant stack of clothes.


    "Where did----" Lena was about to say "go..." but then she spotted a small box on the of the clothes that Kris was carrying.


    She immediately grabbed for it but Kris grabbed it back.


    "How did you get this?!" Lena tried to reach for it again but Kris put his hand up, teasing the size difference between them.


    "What do you mean? It was as if it was begging for me to see it. It fell from the sky."


    "KRIS!"


    Kris chuckled. With his other arm, he wrapped it around Lena and brought her to the sofa, with her sitting on his lap.


    He brought the box out front and turned it around for a good look.


    "How did you know I was a Large?" Kris asked.


    "Shut up... you''re asking me such a stupid question. It''s like me asking you how did you know my bra size. I touched that thing a million times I can create a 3d model of it with 100% accuracy."


    "Really??" Kris laughed.


    Lena grabbed the box from him. "This is for our 1-year anniversary." She proudly admitted.


    "1-year... babe... you want me to wait 1 year to use this? You have 7 more boxes of them and each has 100.... that will take us... like... a week to use it."


    Lena slapped his hand. "A week?! These are limited edition, we need to use them only on special occasions."


    "800 special occasions....?"


    "No, I was going to gift the other ones... dur."


    Kris grabbed the box back from Lena and opened it. He took out one of the content and read it.


    "Glow in the dark... yellow."


    "OH! Do they have a pink one?" Lena exclaimed. She grabbed the box back from Kris and dumped it on the table.


    She hopped off her lap and sat on the floor as she spread the items and searched for a pink glow in the dark.


    Kris glanced at the empty box and smiled. It read Mystery Condom: 100 condoms, one never the same as so you''ll never get bored.


    He suddenly picked up Lena from the ground. With one hand, he grabbed a random stack of condoms from the table and walked to his room.


    "Happy 1-year anniversary bae!" He smiled mischievously at her.

 Chapter 301 - Lure the tiger out of his den.

    ======


    Lena panted and collapsed on Kris'' broad chest. She closed her eyes and smiled. She did not know how long they were in the bedroom nor what time it was. Once they started, it seemed like they were the only two people in the world.


    She took a deep breath and then raised her body off of Kris. She removed the condom off of Kris and threw it on the ground.


    She glanced at the mess on the floor, polluted with their clothes and the result of their lovemaking. There were some that were glowing in the dark... the others had different texture and flavors.


    Lena had lost count after 3 but the box was just as advertised.


    She rolled her sweaty body to the side of him and rested on his soft arm.


    She looked at his eyes... those bipolar eyes. You never know when they will be filled with happiness or murderous intent.


    "You didn''t tell me where you were..." Lena asked.


    "You never asked me."


    "Where did you go?"


    Kris adjusted his body and turned sideways so he could get a better look at Lena. He pushed away some hair behind her ear.


    "My sweet baby is taking a break, so I''m taking care of business." He replied. "Your business and my personal business."


    Lena felt like she wanted to ask more... but she had always been patient with Kris. If he wanted to tell her more, he would. There was a correct time and place to talk about these stuff.


    "You told me not to watch the news nor answer any calls.... how bad is it?"


    "Who do you think I am? If it''s not bad then it''s not worth the hours of missing time with you."


    "So it''s bad..." Lena mumbled.


    "Lena..." Kris sweetly called her name. Before she could reply, he gently kissed her. He only let her go after he got a good taste of her. "I am.... not ready to marry you."


    "We don''t have to get married. I know I was kinda pushing it awhile ago with all the jokes... and with our family... but honestly, we don''t need to get married."


    "That''s not it." Kris cuddled his head in Lena''s neck. He took a deep breath. "People will still covet you even if I put a ring on your finger. What I need to do is make every single man in the world know what will happen if they dare look at you that way.


    My enemy should continue to know who I am. I am not just a shadow caring the name that my grandfather or father passed down... but an empire I built myself. I have power... money... but so does other people. I need them to fear me, yet.... be loyal to me. "


    "Like me?"


    "Yes... like you baby." Kris smiled and looked at Lena. "And I know you like to do some things your own way... but I can''t always sit back and watch. So actually, I am very happy that I am doing this for you... for us. Thank you."


    Kris hugged Lena tightly. "I won''t ever leave you.... even if you leave me. I''ll be annoying as that stupid pest Tyler... except, I won''t be so nice."


    Lena laughed. "I would actually like to see Mr. Kris Li chase me. Maybe in another life time..."


    "That said..." Kris flipped his body on top of Lena and smirked at her. "You have been keeping things from me." I have power... money... but so does other people. I need them to fear me, yet.... be loyal to me.


    "I don''t know how those get there... don''t pull magic tricks like that to me..." Lena put up her act.


    "1.... 2.... 5. You kept 5 to yourself?!" Kris tickled Lena.


    She laughed as he suddenly picked her up from the bed.


    "Just kidding. Let''s shower then go to bed."


    Lena held him tightly as he carried her into the bathroom. How many showers to they need to take a day? Is this how their week is going to be....? If so, she doesn''t mind.


    They took a quick shower and then got ready to go to sleep. They decided to skip on a midnight snack since they had their fill of love.


    "I.. won''t be here tomorrow... but we''ll go check out the  mansion together the next day." Kris told Lena. "And since I am not here... you should invite Gary over."


    "...."


    "You two need to talk it out."


    "Alright."


    Lena yawned and then moved in close to Kris. A part of her still felt like she is just in a perfect dream.


    ====


    The next day, when Lena opened her eyes, the bed was already cold where Kris had slept. Lena grabbed the entire blankets to make her warmer. She closed her eyes again and went to sleep.


    Lena did not know... but the world was upside down at this moment.


    The artist Mikayla went live. She confessed and dropped the charges.


    The authorities reported that Miss. Nina Long will not be getting a bail since she has the resource to leave the country. And considering her charges, she will be held in jail until her court day regarding her crime.


    But the biggest headline of all:


    "CEO Huang shot dead in a hotel!!"


    "CEO Huang dead, sons fighting over inheritance!"


    "Affair gone wrong? Wife kills husband and unknown mistress?!"


    "Huang Company stocks crashing."


    "Stupid!" Tyler immediatly threw the tablet and it crashed into the wall of his office. "Didn''t I tell you to keep my father''s death a secret until we figure out what happened?! What are all you sh*t workers doing?"


    Everyone in the room looked down.


    "Forget about this... what are the shareholders saying?"


    "Some are selling their shares right now..." One of them responded.


    "My father died... the company is still doing fine." Tyler sighed. "Where is that stupid brother of mine?"


    "We found the young master out drunk yesterday... he has not woken up yet. The Madam told us not to wake him up yet..."


    "At least my mother is holding on...." Tyler stared out the window. "Get out... and find out who those betrayers are selling their stock shares to."


    "Yes, sir!"


    Everyone left but one stayed behind.


    "How''s things... at the other side?" He asked.


    "It is as you presumed. Your father''s death was just a distraction."One of the man replied.


    "What was missing?"


    "It is as you presumed... that item."


    "Tsk...." Tyler looked at his phone. Becca was still not answering his calls nor text. ''Where is that b*tch!''


    "How would you like us to... go from here?"


    "By now... he would find out that he only got half of it. With my father dead... only I know where the other half is." Tyler stood up from his chair and started to walk out of the office.


    "Where are you going?"


    "Lure the tiger out of his den." Tyler replied.


    "Let me go with you, boss."


    "No need... just find that b*tch and kill her." Tyler slammed the door shut.

 Chapter 302 - Bargaining chips

    =====


    While Tyler was dealing with the aftermath of the mess Kris made... Kris was dealing with the unexpected half of the item he had been searching for.


    Kris glared at the half... as everyone else in the room just stood silent. They felt like a single movement will be the death of them.


    After a long time, Kris burst into a loud laugh.


    Tye widened his eyes and nudged Collin. "Are we going to die...?" He whispered.


    Collin rolled his eyes.


    "Do you want to die..." Kris stood up and walked over to Tye. "If everyone were to die... you would be the first one. You''re the most useless one."


    "...." Tye swallowed. What is he talking about... if it was not for his good matchmaking skills, would Kris still be a virgin boy?!


    "Where is the other half?" Kris looked at Keso.


    "I.. don''t know. Tyler Huang must have moved it awhile back even without his father knowing. Not even Becca nor any of our spies knew of it."


    "I guess a he''s somewhat smart..." Kris praised Tyler. "It''s kinda fun... knowing that your opponent will be somewhat of a challenge."


    "What would you want us to do now?"


    "I---" Before Kris could answer the call, his phone rung. He looked at the caller ID and it was Gary''s. Shouldn''t he be with Lena right now...?


    He picked up the phone.


    "Hello."


    "..." Kris did not reply immediately. "Where is he?"


    "He''s fine."


    "And what makes you think I should believe just that.. Tyler?"


    "I am fine, Kris..." Gary''s voice was heard.


    "See, he''s fine," Tyler spoke.


    "I didn''t think you would go offensive already." Keso smiled and sat down on the sofa while Keso immediately left. Just from that short response, Keso knew that he had to head to Gary right away.


    "Didn''t you force my hands...?" Tyler chuckled. "I would of went to visit Lena... but you have her locked tight... so I went for the second-best choice."


    "Go ahead... do whatever you want with him."


    "You don''t seem very concern for him. That''s alright. You won''t care for him but Lena does. Just one call and she would be running over here."


    "You---" Kris finally understood what Tyler was doing. It was true that Tyler could not get to Gary and Kris could care less about him... but not Lena.


    "You choose, Kris... bring me the item back... or just give me back the stocks you have been buying. I''ll be here."


    "Why would I be there again? You genuinely have feelings for my girl... you wouldn''t lay a single finger on her. That being said... she would kill you before I do. Using Lena as a bait to get to me won''t work."


    "That''s true... but you killed my father and bomb my facility... What makes you think I am emotionally stable to consider my feelings for her?"


    "Please... Kill him. If you found Gary... then you must know who his father is. You won''t be making an enemy with me, Tyler... but with the entire Sanders family and the Chen gang. So go ahead... kill him."


    "Or I can just hand him over to his father. Heard the old man had been looking for his son.. whom you hid so well." Tyler smiled. He was not going to lose this round. "Be here in 15 or else... it''s Lena who will be here and I can''t promise anything then."


    "Kris, Lena can''t get go out of the house. There''s---" Gary shouted but Tyler smacked the man and gagged his mouth.


    "15 minutes." Tyler confirmed and hung up the call. He threw the phone onto the floor and his men tied up Gary.


    He took a seat on the sofa and looked at the clock. "He''ll be here." He smiled.


    Tyler was correct. After the call ended, Kris sighed and grabbed his coat.


    "Are you really going to go?" Collin asked.


    "I promised Gary that I''ll protect Lena... and for Lena, that I will protect Gary. This is my mess, both of them don''t need to be involved. Plus... I only bought the stocks just as a bargaining chip... the stupid company is worthless to me."


    "I''ll come with you."


    Kris nodded and smiled. He knew that even if he said no, Collin would still follow him.


    "I''ll go too." Lay replied. He took out his gun and kissed it. "It''s been a while since I shot someone."


    "Aiya! This is so beautiful..." Tye scratched his head. "Guess, I''ll go too..."


    "What?!" Kris stared at him. "What are you going to do.... be bait? You can''t even shoot a gun."


    Kris walked out first as Collin followed him, then Lay.


    "HEY! I... I can shoot a gun..." Tye ran after them.


    "Says the person who won''t eat meat..."


    "AHHHH!" Tye screamed. They were bullying him. Just they wait... he knows the perfect way to get back at them.


    When they got to the car, Collin drove as Kris took shotgun. Lay continued to bully how Tye.


    After 10 minutes they arrived at Gary''s place. Keso already took down the men that Tyler had defending outside.


    "I don''t know how many men are inside... the cameras are off," Keso reported when the rest of the team arrived.


    "And our men who''s suppose to be taking care of this place...?" Kris looked around.


    "...." Keso did not reply. That could only be mean one thing... dead.


    "Let''s go." Kris walked to the elevator and pushed it for Gary''s floor.


    When they arrived, as if Tyler had been spying on them since they arrived, the door was already opened for them.


    Kris casually walked in, no fear at with all the guns pointed at him. He spotted Tyler sitting on the sofa crossed legged and drinking something.


    "You''re early." Tyler greeted him.


    "Earlier this is over, earlier I can go home. Unlike you, I have someone waiting for me at home."


    "Is that so..?" Tyler smiled. "Does she know what you have been doing lately? Probally not, huh? Will she leave you... if I tell her?"


    "Where is he." Kris changed the topic.


    "In his bedroom. He does not need to hear this."


    Kris nodded at Keso and Keso went to check the bedroom. Gary was indeed alright but just tied to the chair and hidden in his room.


    Gary was struggling and shouting, but no one could understand what he was saying. Keso tried to walk in, but one of Tyler''s men blocked him. He closed the door on Keso.


    "The item first... then the boy is yours," Tyler said.


    Kris tossed the folder onto the table in front of Tyler. "Those are the 10% of shares that I bough plus the 20% that I own. With that and what your father had... that''s 70% in your name."


    Tyler was about to grab the papers, but Kris put his feet on the table and stepped on the file.


    "...." Tyler looked at Kris.


    "I want the other half." Kris demanded.


    "It will be an unfair trade."


    "Your brother." Kris yawned. "I heard he has not wake up yet..."


    "..." Tyler glared at Kris. "What did you do to him?"


    "The item and I will give you the antidote."


    "I don''t have it here---"


    "Cut the crap." Kris interrupted him. "I know you have it with you."


    "How do I know the antidote is not fake?"


    "I swear, upon Lena''s life."


    Tyler looked at Kris. Kris was a dangerous man and Tyler knew that he was playing with the devil... but if Kris swore under Lena''s life then he knew the man really meant it. He went into his pocket and took the other half out.


    He threw it onto the table. He lifted his feet off the file and grabbed the item.


    "Nice doing business with you, CEO Huang." Kris smiled. "I hope we can continue doing great business with each other."


    At the moment, Gary''s entire house suddenly starting flashing red lights.


    "What the---?" Tyler looked around. "Didn''t we already turned off the security alarm?"


    Kris'' phone buzzed, also flashing with red lights. He immediately turned around and ran out the door.


    "Kris!" Keso shouted but the man was already gone.


    Gary body slammed the bedroom door opened and he was panting. He was screaming but no one could understand what he was saying with the gag in his mouth.

 Chapter 303 - Whos a b*stard?

    When Kris got to the car... he remembered that he was not the one driving so he did not have the keys. He slammed the window on the passenger side and it shattered. He unlocked the car and then entered the driver''s seat.


    He hot wired that car and sped through the city''s traffic, ignoring every single law. He arrived and quickly went up the speed elevator. The GPS on Lena said she was still here.


    When he got up to his penthouse, he kicked his bedroom door opened and Lena''s body was on the bed... lifeless.


    "Lena!" Kris rushed up to her. He removed the blanket from her.


    He put his arm under her head and lifted it up. "Lena... wake up."


    He put his head down and listened to her heart....


    *Bump, Bump, Bump*


    It sounded fine.


    Lena opened her eyes and was greeted with Kris'' pale and sweaty face.


    "KRis...?" She mumbled and then yawned. "How---"


    Kris immediately hugged her tightly, crashing her head into his chest.


    "Thank god! I thought.... Nevermind." Kris breathed and hugged her.


    "What happened? Did I sleep too long? What time is it... Kris, I can''t breath."


    Kris slightly gave Lena some breathing room and she stared at him worriedly.


    Lena put a hand on his head and wiped off the sweat from his forehead. "What''s wrong...? Did I sleep... like last time?"


    "No." Kris shook his head. He was confused too.... Gary set up an alert system that would go off if Lena''s heart rate dropped or increased above an abnormal level. "It was just..."


    He took out his phone and looked at it carefully.


    "Gary.." He silently muttered the name.


    The name that popped up in the alert was not Lena''s heart... but Gary. Gary also have the same tracker inside of him.


    "Gary! Oh my gosh, I forgot about him." Lena quickly got up.


    "Lena! I... I don''t think you should worry about that at the moment."


    "What?"


    Lena looked at Kris and she did not like that look on his face at the moment. It''s that look that someone will give you when they want to break up with you.


    "Get dressed." Kris spoke and Lena did not ask any questions.


    Lena quickly went to the bathroom and then got dressed. Kris dragged her back to the parking lot and took her car instead.


    When they got to the car, Kris drove but also called Keso.


    "Boss! We don''t know what happened. Gary just started spasming on the ground."


    "Where is that bastard?" Kris spoke.


    "He''s still here. Tye left with Gary in the ambulance heading to XX hospital."


    "Meet you there and bring that bastard with you."


    Kris hung up the call and continued to drive to the hospital.


    "What is going on Kris?" Lena was starting to not like the sound of that call. "What happened to Gary? Who''s a bastard? KRIS LI,  you tell me what is happening this damn second or I will jump out of this car!"


    Kris immediately pulled over to the side of the road. "Lena... listen to me.. okay?"


    Lena''s chest was rising up and down as she was angry at him. What is going on?!


    In three minutes, Kris gave Lena a quick run through what happened in the last three days. In the end, Lena gave Kris a hard slap on his face.


    "Lena..." Kris knew that it was somewhat his fault.


    "Stop. Don''t talk to me. Drive." Lena turned her head and stared out the window.


    Kris took a deep breath and then continue to drive to the hospital.


    When they arrived there, Lena opened the door herself and ran to the emergency area. She knew she was in the right place when there were several scary looking men standing outside the emergency door.


    The light was on so Gary must be in that room right now.


    But her eyes were more focused on the man who looked perfectly fine and sitting on the bench.


    "You damn ******!" Lena shouted and ran toward him.


    Tyler stood up as he spotted Lena walking over angrily at him. His men stepped forward to block her but Keso and Lay blocked them, opening the path for Lena.


    "Le----" Tyler only finished one syllable when Lena landed one punch on him.


    He stumbled back to the bench. But before he can hold his balance, Lena landed another hard punch to the same side.


    "AH!" Tyler touched the pain on his face.


    "Ah? AH?! So you do know pain. C''mere, I will show you pain." Lena pulled his hair and grabbed him to the ground.


    She lifted up her skirt and sat on top of him. Lena wore a dress because that was the quickest thing to change into.


    Kris walked in and didn''t even dare say a word when Lena lifted her skirt a bit and sat on top of Tyler.


    Lena twisted Tyler''s ear. "Listen to me very carefully boy, if you dare touch one hair on him, or even breath the same air in a room with him, I will hunt you down and kill you myself!"


    Lena lets go of his ear. She ripped his shirt off and instantly jammed a syringe in his chest. She then casually stood up, pat her dress down and walked over to where Kris was standing.


    Tyler''s men quickly rushed to their master''s side and helped him get up.


    "What... what did you inject me with?" Tyler looked at Lena. He just got beat up by her... but somehow... she was still so beautiful.


    "I don''t know. Gary gave it to me to use in an emergency. You''ll have to ask him what it is." Lena shrugged.


    Kris held his hand to Lena but she swapped it away.


    "You. You are also grounded." Lena glared at him. "And all of you! Get out!" Lena shouted at them and pointed toward the exit.


    Kris looked at his friends and then left first. Everyone, even Tyler''s people followed Kris out of the hallway.


    As they left, Hazel entered the hallway and looked at all the scary man. Lena spotted her girlfriend and quickly went to hug her.


    Hazel hugged her friend tightly and looked at Kris with confused eyes. She mouthed to him, "What happened?"


    Kris mouthed back to her, "Take care of Lena." and then left out of sight, leaving only a heartbroken Lena and Hazel outside the emergency room.


    When he turned the corner and was no longer in sight, he slouched on the wall.


    "Kris..." Collin spoke.


    "I''m fine. Leave me. Make sure you know where Tyler is, and give me an update on Becca and Ace."


    "Alright." Collin dragged Keso and Lay out with him.


    Kris quenched his heart. This was the worst pain he had felt... What did he do wrong? No, He did everything wrong. He was too quick to finish everything. He should have paid closer attention to Lena and everyone special to her.


    If... If only.. If only.


    "Kris."


    Kris lifted up his head and saw Lena in front of him. She walked up to him, held his hand, and hugged him.


    "He''s going to be fine, right?" Lena asked him.


    "Tye''s with him... and you''re his lucky charm so he''ll be fine." Kris held Lena in her arms. "I am sorry."


    "You''re still grounded... but that will start tomorrow."

 Chapter 304 - Good Stab

    Kris and Lena looked like a bunch of dumb kids sitting on the floor but they didn''t care.


    "Hazel..." Kris said.


    "I needed her... just in case I kill you. She would need to help me clean up the mess and get rid of your body."


    "Okay..." Kris laughed and Lena laughed too.


    "But seriously.... she needs to know, about Gary... but not yet." Lena started to stand up. "I''m hungry. Can you get me something to eat while I talk to Hazel?"


    "Yeah." Kris stood up too. He gave Lena a kiss on the forehead.


    "Don''t go too long, we still need to talk." Lena sternly told him and he nodded.


    Lena walked back to Hazel who was still waiting outside the emergency room. She dropped all her work when Lena called her.


    Hazel does not even know who was behind that door... but it must be someone very important that even Lena was angry at Kris.


    "How was it?" Hazel asked Lena as she walked back.


    "Thanks..." Lena sat next to her.


    "Everyone doesn''t understand how you can put up with someone like Kris... but they don''t know how much you love him. And even when the world is against you, all you need is him. Can''t give you any good relationship advice cuz I have never been in a successful one, but, I think he''s a keeper." Hazel patted Lena on the back.


    "I know..."


    "So... who''s in there?"


    "Someone important. Family."


    "Do you want me to stay or?" Hazel asked.


    "Nah... I only needed a hug from my girl. I know you have things to do today... and you coming here right away probably will make your manager call me and yell at me." Lena laughed.


    "I''ll call you later tonight to check on you. Thank god Mikayla finally realized that cheating wasn''t a fastpass to fame. You''re stronger than me, Lena..."


    "Thanks."


    Hazel stayed with Lena for a bit and then left. After a bit, Kris came back with some freshly cooked food. Lena was hungry before but she was not so hungry now. She only ate a bit so she would have enough energy for the day.


    She held Kris'' hand and placed her head on his shoulder. Her eyes were glued to the door, waiting for the next moment when the doctors would come out.


    "Why didn''t you kill her when you have a clean shot? If you don''t kill the enemy, they will only rise back up stronger."


    "Because..." Kris kissed Lena''s forehead. "If I broke your heart... would you let Hazel kill me or would you kill me with your own hands?"


    "...." Why would Kris ask such a stupid question... Lena thought but then she realized his reference. "I would kill you myself."


    "Thought so."


    "But... I would still love you too much to kill you. What makes you think "he" don''t do the same too?"


    "Ace..? Cuz he doesn''t love her anymore."


    "How do you know?"


    "Do you love Andy anymore?"


    "No." Lena was not enjoying all these throwback questions Kris was giving her.


    "We were young. Love at a young age is dangerous... in my mind, all I had to focus on was my mission and kill count. Becca couldn''t hang out with me so she hung out with Ace. The stupid boy on puberty fell in love with the only woman who would smile at him.


    Gave the woman everything only to be stabbed and say that she had only ever loved his best friend. I didn''t even know they were a thing until I came back to here a few years ago. But that was too late... she left him, chased after me. That''s the reason why he chose to stay with my grandfather... and I choose to leave with my mother."


    Kris looked at Lena who was still diligently looking at the door.


    "I thought he betrayed me for my grandfather and he thought that I left him... guess in the end, it was that b*tch that ruined us. We both need a good stab at her. But, her death is not on my hands. I felt like I have come in between you and Gary. You both can get a good stab at me if you want."


    Lena squeezed his hand. "Ace... that''s a nice name." She replied instead.


    "..." Kris knew that Lena was just trying to make him feel better. "Don''t you dare call our son that name. You can''t start thinking about baby names until you have a baby."


    "Gary''s a nice name too."


    "Lena!" Kris raised his voice and pinched her nose. She smiled back at him.


    Just then, the door finally opened and two doctors came out. Tye was one of them.


    Lena stood up and looked at the disheveled doctors.


    "How is he?" Lena asked.


    "The surgery was a success... but we won''t know how much the damage is until he wakes up." The other doctor replied. "I''ll go bring the patient to his room. Thank you for the help Dr. Tye."


    He left and then Tye looked at Lena... and then at Kris.


    "When he had his spasms... I originally thought that it was a psychological response to him being tied up.. considering what he had been through before. But after that, I noticed that there seemed to be a bigger cause. When he got to the hospital, we found out that he had a small bleed in his brain. We immediately sent him into surgery and repaired it." Tye explained.


    "He''s going to wake up though right?" Lena was worried.


    "Hopefully... There doesn''t seem to be much damage but we won''t know until he wakes up and do a full examination."


    "Okay." Lena was still holding Kris'' hand tightly for support.


    "I am sorry, Lena. It is my fault. I thought that Gary was mentally fine after out long therapy... but I guess the trauma may be still lingering."


    "It''s not your fault... he also told me that he was fine. I truly believe that he---" And then Lena stopped mid-sentence.


    She looked at Tye and then just remembered the most important fact regarding Gary. Gary is not just Gary... he is also Erik. The worst thing that ever happened to Gary was when he got shot... but for Erik, he had been through some things too.


    Erik grew up in a rich family and even though he was not heir to his father''s business, he was still a target. If Lena recalled, Erik and younger sister got kidnapped when they were young. Erik escaped two weeks later but his sister didn''t make it.


    That was all that was ever reported on the news... and this is why Erik, her boss in the other world, never lock the doors. He always carries around a sharp tool with him.


    "Can I go see him?" Lena asked, trying to hold back her tears.


    "Ummm..." Tye looked at Kris. Lena followed their eyes movements and was confused.


    "We''ll keep him here just overnight until we can move him." Kris sighed. "We can''t keep him here long, Lena. It''s not safe for him... if his father finds out, which I am pretty sure he has already."


    "Another bastard." Lena gritted her teeth.

 Chapter 305 - Keep a lid on that vinegar

    Lena clenched her hands into a first while the other hand suffocated Kris'' hand as she squeezed it tighter. Kris did not move at all and allowed Lena to vent her anger.


    Only after a long minute, Lena breathed, and Tye took her to go see Gary.


    Gary was moved to a room in the basement instead of the VIP ward. Lena walked in and saw that his head was bandaged. He had just got his hair long and now it was cut off again.


    Kris watched as Lena lets go of his hand and walked over to where Gary''s body was. It was like de ja vu again for Kris. Lena grabbed Gary''s hand and looked at him.


    Before she could continue, Lena glanced over at Kris.


    "If you can''t keep a lid on that vinegar, then leave the room."


    "There is no vinegar. He only gets your pity when he''s always on a hospital bed."


    "Maybe you should get hospitalized more often.." Lena glared at him.


    "..." Kris put a lid on his vinegar and walked over to sit on the sofa. He grabbed his cellphone and started texting instead of paying attention to Lena and her public affection to another man in front of him!


    Lena smiled at Kris and then focused on Gary again. She placed a hand on his face and patted it gently.


    "Sorry..." She whispered. "We''re both in this together... but while I am having the time of my life, I have forgotten that you are having it worse than me. I went from rags to riches and you... you have no family here. Your father is crazy. You''re a shut-off nerd. I admit that I am the bad friend this time... so, be okay, alright? We can punch Kris together when you wake up."


    Kris lifted his head when he heard that but then went back to texting.


    Lena bent her head down and gave Gary a kiss on the forehead. "When you are good again, I''ll hook you up with a very good girl and we can go on a double date, okay?"


    Lena stared at Gary for a few more minutes in silence. Then both Kris and she left the room. Gary was still in intensive care and no one should be seeing him, but Tye made an exception for Lena.


    When they exited the room, Keso and Noah were outside the door. Kris had told both of them are to take care of Gary.


    Lena greeted them quickly and then continued to walk out of the hospital. Kris trailed along behind her closely.


    "Where are we going?" He asked.


    "Is that even a question?" Lena smiled at him.


    Kris laughed. "I''ll drive." Of course, it was not a real question... he knew what his baby wanted and he already got the location of where Gary''s father was at the moment.


    When they got outside, Kris opened the passenger door for Lena and then ran to the driver''s seat.


    "Are you sure you want to do this? I can--"


    "No. I will go handle this myself. You just need to look good, Mr. Li." Lena replied.


    "Ok. I just don''t want you to be stressed out." Kris clarified his insecurities.


    "Stress?!" Lena put on her seatbelt. "I heard that punching stuff is a good stress reliever."


    "It is indeed, my lady." Kris chuckled and then drove to their destination.


    Mr. Sanders was not in City A but instead doing business in City B. It was an hour-long drive before they got to their destination. Inside the car, Lena put on her makeup and refreshed her look. She was going into the enemy''s den, so she needed to play her part well.


    When they arrived at the entrance, they were greeted with guns.


    "What is your purpose of being here today... Mr. Li?" The guard spoke to Kris at gunpoint.


    "I am just a driver today," Kris spoke and moved his head away so the guard can see Lena.


    The guard looked at Kris and was a bit... shocked at Kris'' response. ''Did the almighty Kris Li just said that he is just the driver...? Then who is this woman...? Someone more dangerous than him?''


    The guard grabbed his radio and talked on it. "Tell the boss that Mr. Kris Li and uh..." He looked at Lena.


    "Miss. Shen." Kris replied.


    "Miss. Shen are here to visit him." The guard finished talking over the radio.


    "Let them in." A voice replied from the radio and the head guard signaled everyone to put down their guns and they opened the gate for Kris to continue.


    They drove for another 10 minutes before reaching the main building. Lena spotted that there were three men outside already waiting for them. Two look like just guards but the person in the middle seemed like someone with high power.


    "That''s the first adopted son of him, Lucio Sanders." Kris spoke and then parked the car.


    Kris stepped out of the car first and went to open the door for Lena. Lena grabbed his arm and they both walk up to the people who were out to welcome them.


    "Welcome, Mr. Li and Miss. Shen. I am Lucio Sanders. My father is waiting for both of you." Lucio spoke. "However..." Lucio looked at Kris'' eye with no fear. "we would have to ask that you both surrender any kind of weapons."


    Kris smirked and raised his arms. "I am just a driver today, I am carrying nothing."


    One of the guards quickly went up to Kris and pat him down. After he was done, he nodded at Lucio that Kris was cleared and then he raised his hand to search Lena next.


    However, Kris immediately grabbed the man''s arms and twisted it. "What do you think you are doing to her?!" Kris raised his voice.


    The other guard put up his gun to Kris, but Lucio just stood there.


    "Kris..." Lena slightly taps Kris'' hand to let go of the man. Kris looked at Lena and then let the man''s hand go.


    Lucio signaled the other man to put his gun down and walked closer to Lena but not too close.


    "I hope that Miss. Shen understands this is necessary if you want to speak with my father."


    "I do... But." Lena immediately unzipped the side of her dress and took off her dress in a quick second. Even Kris was shocked. "No one would be touching me today."


    Lena stood there, one hand holding the dress, with only her undergarments on. And it was just any garments... it was very sexy lingerie that she had prepared for Kris.. but plans changed.


    "Is this enough? Or should I take off more? As you can clearly see, I am carrying nothing." Lena spoke and even gave the men a good 360 turn.


    "Mnnh." Lucio cleared his throat and rubbed his nose. He slightly blushed from seeing Lena''s perfectly sexy body. "That.. that''s fine, Miss. Shen."


    "Good." Lena put her dress on and zipped it up. She flared up her hair and looked at Lucio. "Can we see your father now, please?"


    Kris stared at Lena who acted like she did not just strip in front of three men who obviously is still drolling from her actions.


    "Uh... Yes. This way." Lucio turned around and lead them inside.


    Lena went to Kris'' side and held Kris'' hand.


    She raised her body up a bit and whispered to his ear, "Keep a lid on your vinegar, baby."


    Kris looked at Lena and did not smile at all. He put a hand under her dress and squeezed her buttocks, to which Lena squealed and then hit his shoulder.


    Kris smirked at her then continue to look where they were going.


    Lucio, on the other hand, pretended not to hear these two people flirting behind his back. They do know that they are in their territory, right...? Why does he feel like he was getting eaten alive instead..?

 Chapter 306 - Taming dogs.

    They continued walking for a long time, turning corners, entering weird hallways, but eventually, they arrived.


    Gary''s father was sitting in a very comfortable chair, smoking a very large cigar. He just put it out when he saw that his guests had arrived.


    "Lena! It''s been such a long time." He stood up to shake Lena''s hand but she ignored it and just sat down on the sofa across from him.


    "I am a very busy woman, let''s just get straight the personal business I am here for." Lena spoke.


    "Very well then..." He looked at Lena and then at Kris who also just sat down next to her. "How can I help you."


    "Stay away from Gary."


    "AHAHAHA..." Mr. Chen laughed.


    "Did it look like a joke to you, Mr. Chen. I was very serious."


    "Excuse me, Miss. Shen. I don''t see you as a threat at all... nor is he." He looked at Kris.


    "But I should be a threat to you." Lena smiled. "You know very well how much your son adores me. Even when I have another man by my side, he still does everything I say. You can''t harm me because I am Kris'' woman... and even if you did, Gary would still never come back to you."


    "You''re very bold."


    "That''s why men like me." Lena replied. "But you see.... You''re looking at this the wrong way. We''re not the one holding Gary back from joining you... it''s the Yang blood that he carried and the contract that binds him."


    "What do you mean?" Mr. Chen held the side of his chairs.


    "For me... he made a deal with the yang family. That he will register under their name until Andy Yang gets an heir and hold the position as the next inheritance of the Yang empire." Lena laughed. "Silly right? I know... but as long as that Old Yang lives... traditions are to be obeyed. And there is that annoying Uncle too."


    "So..." Mr. Chen stared straight into Lena''s eyes. "You want me to get rid of them... for you? Do you think I am that easily swayed?"


    "I am only just telling you the facts. I know you''re not a stupid person." Lena reached to grab the pitcher from the table and poured herself a cup of water. She took a sip and then continued. "I am confused though... why in the world... do you want Gary as your heir for your empire. I mean... he doesn''t know how to fight.. shoot a gun or anything."


    "A man''s power isn''t what he can physically do but the mind that he has." Mr. Chen pointed out.


    "Indeed... but you''re talking about the underworld. You have 5 proud adopted sons, who I assume some are here..." Lena looked at the young man standing behind Mr. Chen and next to Lucio. "What makes you think they won''t kill Gary as soon as you are dead? They have been with the organization longer than Gary."


    "Becuase they are my son. We don''t shed our own blood." Mr. Chen assured Lena.


    "Not even for a woman..?" Lena smiled.


    "What are you saying?"


    "Oh, please don''t play the dumb card on me." Lena put her hand around Kris'' arm and hugged it. "I see how you look at Madam Li."


    Kris was also shocked. He looked at Lena and then at Mr. Chen... but then he knew it was true. Lena was probably just speculating but Mr. Chen''s reaction was no lie.


    "That is in the past." Mr. Chen replied. "I found a good woman who gave me a wonderful daughter. Sad she did not live long."


    Lena knew that she was just playing a guessing game... but she wasn''t going to go down until Mr. Chen backs off.


    "Rumors said you killed your own brother and betrayed your best friend for a woman. Can''t be that be the mother of your daughter... that came later. And obviously it is not going to be that crazy witch who married into the Yang family... so I am guessing... Ah, yes... the current Madam Li. And here you say, you don''t shed your own blood."


    "YOU!" He stood up from his chair and pointed a gun at Lena.


    "Please, Mr. Chen. This is a good family storytime for your sons." Lena did not flinch but her heart was beating really fast. Kris could feel her uneasiness but Lena kept her face strong and unfaltering.


    "You didn''t get where you are not with a clean hand... everything you do is stained with blood. Gary doesn''t live in your world. You have never been a father for him, he doesn''t need you nor your redemption."


    "He is MY son and he will be MY legacy!"


    "You know why I don''t carry a gun...?" Lena changed the topic. She put a hand on Kris'' face and kissed his cheeks. "Becuase a woman like me doesn''t need one. If I can tame the devil himself... what makes you think I can''t tame your five dogs?" Lena was referring to his five adopted sons.


    Immediately when she said that, the three sons who were there also pulled out their gun and pointed at Lena.


    "Do you take us as fools?" Lucio shouted.


    "Says the man who drolled just seeing me for the first time." Lena put her hair behind her ears.


    "My sons will not be tempted. It''s a surprise that the heir of the Li empire would be tamed by such a weak woman like you."


    "Ahahahahah!" Lena laughed. "Yet your own blood.... let me remind you, licks my feet and wag his tail at me." Lena was referring to Gary.


    *BANG*


    Mr. Chen took at shot at Lena but he aimed it so it just goes past her.


    Lena blinked and dropped her smile.


    "You missed... but did you know... I am a very good shooter."


    In a quick second, Lena stood up from Kris and shot one of the sons in the leg. As everyone got caught off guard and looked away for a second, Lena went for Lucio while Kris went for Mr. Chen.


    Kris unarmed Mr. Chen and used his own gun to point it at his head.


    On the other hand, Lena smacked Lucio on the little brother and held her gun to his head.


    At that point, everyone in the room had their guns pointed at Lena and Kris.


    "Ooff.." Lena looked at Lucio. "Shoulda not looked at the breasts and paid attention to my hands."


    Lena commented. When she took the dress off and held it in her hand, it was covering the small gun. And when she got dressed again, everyone looked away in respect to her.


    "Take a good look boys... You have one bleeding out if you don''t get him a doctor soon. And we got clear headshots on two of your big bosses. Make the call, old man." Lena did not budge one bit and Kris held the gun tightly to Mr. Chen''s head.

 Chapter 307 - Die together.

    Mr. Chen did not move and looked at his men.


    "MIss. Shen... you are a threat, I admit that. But you won''t get out of here alive."


    "What makes you think we came here alone?" Lena replied. "You''re talking to the woman who came in here and just shot your son in the leg and have a gun pointed at the other one. Oh... and let me remind you... the stupid man who fell in love with me is also Kris Li, you have heard of him, right? And how he just BOMB the Huang facility like yesterday?"


    The son who did not get shot nor have a gun to his head started to radio their men outside. However, he got no reply from them.


    By then, everyone knew that Kris'' men were already in the building.


    "Old man... If you would have offered me some cookies, maybe I would not be so angry." Lena sighed. "But I won''t kill you today... like I said, Kris and I are no threat to you. We won''t get involved in your problems if you don''t get involved in ours. So I suggest you keep your hands off me and Gary.


    Additionally... keep your daughter away from me. Just for precaution, she might turn into a dog too like the rest of your useless family. After all, daddy''s little princess doesn''t know what he really does, right? I am a big talker and might just slip something out."


    Lena swung her pistol hard on Lucio and he fell down. No one dared to take a shot at her though since Kris still had their boss hostage.


    Lena went to the table and drank the rest of the water. She slammed it down on the table and then turned around to leave, with Kris following her out and still holding Mr. Chen as a hostage.


    "Don''t follow us." Kris spoke and closed the door on them.


    They both went back to the car, making sure no one followed them. They put Mr. Chen at the trunk and then they drove out of the area first. They passed the front gate with no struggle and then dumped the old man at the side of the road when they were far enough out.


    "There was no backup..." Mr. Chen looked at Lena.


    "No. That was just something I made up. We jammed the radios before we entered the mansion. The technology made by your son by the way." Lena replied.


    "AHAHAHAHA!" Mr. Chen chuckled. "You would have been a great daughter-in-law. If I killed him, would you be with Gary?" Mr. Chen looked at Kris.


    "No. I would die together with him. And then Gary would die with me... and then you would achieve nothing again."


    Lena turned around and walked back to the car.


    "Miss. Shen!" Mr. Chen called out. "I won''t give up on Gary... but I can promise you that I can stay away from you and him."


    "I hope so." Lena replied out the window. "And don''t worry... I won''t spread the news that the Chen gang just got beat up by a bratty princess and her man."


    Lena blew the old man a kiss and then Kris drove off. When they were far enough, Lena burst into a cry.


    "I was so scared!! Wahh" She banged her head on the window. "I.... I also shot a man!"


    "Lena..." Kris rolled his eyes. "You don''t get to cry after what you just did... it doesn''t make you look cool."


    "What was I thinking of going into the place with just you! We should have brought some real backup!"


    "I am a one-man army." Kris bragged.


    "AHH! I swear if you let me do something like this again, you will get more than just being grounded!"


    "Are we going to talk about the part of you undressing?"


    "That was a good idea, right? I just thought of that on the spot just to hide the--- AH!"


    Kris quickly pulled over to the roadside and pulled Lena into a kiss. Lena pushed him back and escaped for half a second before Kris kissed her again.


    When she was breathless, he let her go and started driving again, just in case they sent men after them.


    "You are not allowed to do that again or I will show you how to properly undress and you would not be able to wear clothes again after that!" Kris wiped his lips satisfied and Lena slapped his arm.


    They both did not say anything until they were back in the city.


    "Does... Gary still like you?" Kris asked.


    When Lena was talking before... Kris was wondering which part of true and which part was Lena playing.


    "No." Lena looked at Kris. "He doesn''t... not the romantic way. But they don''t know that."


    "And the part about my mother?"


    "I don''t know," Lena answered him. "I took a risk on that one... with the way he looked at Madam Li at the Shen Party and then with the rumors.. I just threw it out there when we were back there. But Kris...." Lena breathed. "I think your mother does have a history with him... and your dad."


    "We''ll worry about that part later." Kris parked the car outside the hospital. He held Lena''s hand and kissed it. "We almost died today... but that was one of the most amazing and stupidest things I have ever done. If Keso found out what I did... I am blaming you."


    Kris laughed and then went out to open the door for Lena. Just as they were about to go in, Kris received a text. He stopped a looked at it.


    Unknown: We need to talk.


    Lena saw the text too and looked at Kris. "Go." She told Kris.


    She pulled Kris for a kiss on the lips. "Go. And make sure that b*tch is dead for me please..." Lena smiled and then ran inside the hospital.


    Kris looked at Lena until she was entirely gone from his sight. He smiled at her foolishness and looked back at the text.


    Kris: Old place. See you in 10, Ace.

 Chapter 308 - Ace and Becca (1)

    -- Flashback to Chp. 300 --


    The hotel door forced open and Ace entered the room. He quickly spotted CEO Huang but ignored him, walking over the dead body. He immediately rushed to Becca''s side and put pressure on her wound.


    "Stay with me, Becca."


    Becca glanced at the man who was next to her... somehow... it was the man she was not expecting.


    "Kris..." Becca slowly muttered.


    "Don''t talk... you''re bleeding really bad. Dammit!" Ace grabbed the bedsheets and ripped it. He quickly bandaged Becca''s wound and slowly carried her.


    He knew that he has to take her out of this place before the authorities arrived. Becca lost conscious by the time he got her down to his car, but Ace knew that Becca was still alive. Her pulse was weak but he can still save her if he was fast enough.


    He quickly drove way past the speed limit but all the cops were headed toward the hotel so they all ignored his car.


    It only took him less than 10 minutes before he arrived to the place he needed to be. He carried Becca''s frail body and heavily knocked on the door.


    After a few seconds, the door opened.


    Ace immediately drew his gun and pointed it on the man''s forehead. "I need you to treat her now!" He demanded.


    The man looked at Ace and then at the woman who was obviously on the brink of death.


    "Come.... come inside." The man opened wider for both of them. Ace carried Becca in and the man looked outside before closing the door. "I''ll go get the boss..."


    The man hurriedly fled through a door and a few seconds afterward, a different man in a white coat came out.


    "Ace, my man... how many times do I need to tell you to stop pointing your gun every time you walk in her." The doctor spoke.


    "I don''t have time for chitchat... Aiden. I need you to save her now."


    "YOU! You can''t call me by my name! It''s DR. WHO!"


    Ace pointed his gun at Dr. Who and didn''t care what the doctor''s name was.


    Dr. Who sighed. "Bring her to the surgery room."


    A few people came out and put Becca into a stretcher and rolled her through the doors. Dr. Who immediately blocked Ace from entering.


    "You... stay here. You need to make sure you were not followed here. You know how this business work."


    Ace grunted but he stayed out here as the doctor also went through the doors. Ace looked at his bloody clothes that soaked in the blood from Becca. He took off his shirt and sat down on the chair... just waiting.


    Ace looked at the time... hours have past but no one had come out even once to tell him about the situation. But, that could be considered something good right? It means that Becca was not dead yet.


    After a few more hours, Dr. Who finally got out. He wiped his forehead and looked at Ace who was not one bit tired.


    "She''s fine now. I removed the bullet and stopped the bleeding. She''s lucky that the bullet did not hit any major arteries or the heart." Dr. Who spoke.


    "Can I go see her now?" Ace asked.


    "Hold your horses... You need to pay me first. I just saved her life... what kind of doctor do you think I am to be working free for you?!"


    "Same account?" Ace grabbed his cellphone. He started punching in a few things and then brought the screen tho Dr. Who''s face. "This enough?"


    Dr. Who smiled and nodded. He walked through the door and lead Ace to where Becca was resting.


    When they entered the room, Ace looked at Becca''s body that was resting on the bed.


    "When will she wake up?" He asked.


    "Within the next 24 hours."


    "OK..." Ace walked up to the bed and took a closer look at Becca. He lightly touched Becca''s face and then closed his eyes. "I need another thing from you... doc. I will pay of course."


    "What is it?"


    "That thing you gave me last time... I want another dose of it."


    "Who did you offend this time... for you to need that again?" Dr. Who questioned.


    "It''s not who I offended. It is who she offended." Ace replied. "So are you going to give it to me or not?"


    "Sure... but I am doubling the fee this time. You know how hard it is to obtain that item in the black market."


    "Even for a black hospital like you?" Ace smirked. "And here I thought you were better than Dr. Tye."


    "Don''t you dare compare me to that young imbecile! Double or nothing."


    "That''s fine. I''ll send the money to your account."


    Dr. Who left and Ace stayed in the room with Becca.


    The news was all over the death of CEO Huang. The next day arrived and Ace did not sleep nor eat at all. He stayed in the room and continued to look at Becca until she woke up.


    When Becca woke up... she could feel the pain from her body. She glanced over to see Ace who walked up from the sofa, noticing that she had woken up.


    "Where''s Kris?" Becca''s dry mouth asked.


    "You are seriously still asking about him when you like this?!" Ace shouted at her.


    "He.. he needs to know. I am not even supposed to be with you, Ace. You are a traitor."


    "Ha..." Ace scoffed. "You are seriously so stupid...  Kris won''t be here. He''s probably out celebrating with Lena that you are finally out of his life."


    "What... what do you mean?"


    "He used you... He lied to you. He used your bombs to blow up the Huang''s and then he was the one behind CEO Huang''s assassination... including taking you out."


    "No..." Becca looked at Ace. "Kris would not do that. Auntie will not let Kris do that--- AH!"


    Ace slapped Becca across the face. "Wake up, Becca. Kris never loved you nor looked at you. He had only been using you since forever and you know that. And Madam Li....? You''re worthless to her if there is Lena."


    "I..." Becca cried and laughed. Even though she could feel the pain.. she didn''t care. "It''s all her fault! I should have killed her a long time ago." She gritted her teeth.


    She stopped crying and then looked up at Ace. She grabbed his hand and held it to her face.


    "Ace... you won''t leave me, right?"


    Ace looked at her and then smiled. "Becca... you know I will never leave you." He wiped her tears. "I love you."


    "I am sorry..." Becca spoke. "I thought that my whole life was Kris... but I should have loved you instead. I shouldn''t have left you... and stayed with you. You''ll forgive me, right? We can start all over."


    "...." Ace looked at Becca to see if she was sincere. "Of course."


    ''Yes... Ace was always so stupid and would do anything for me because he loves me so much.'' Becca smiled. "Help me get my revenge. Get rid of Lena for me."

 Chapter 309 - Ace and Becca (2)

    "Why her? Shouldn''t you get rid of Kris?" Ace asked.


    ''Stupid... if I get rid of her, then I can go back to Kris...'' Becca hid her joy. "The best way to see Kris in pain is to get rid of her. I also know a way for you to take control of the entire Li empire." Becca smirked.


    Ace looked at Becca.. again, studying her.


    "You have been close to Grandpa Li... isn''t it because you''re just waiting for the perfect moment to get rid of the old man and Kris? Once you get rid of them both... after Lena, of course, we can be together and you can take over the empire."


    "The old man is easy to get rid of... but Kris is a different story." Ace addressed.


    "I know... but I know someone who will want to get rid of Kris more than us..." Another big smirked appeared on Becca''s face.


    "Who?"


    "I.. I can''t tell you yet. But you have to trust me, Ace. You love me right?"


    "Tell me what you need me to do."


    "I need a secure line to contact someone... and after I get well, we can have our time to shine." Becca held Ace''s hand and seductively licked it. "And we can do so much more.. after I am well again." She smiled at him.


    She grabbed his shirt and pulled his face closer to hers. She could hear his rapid heartbeat and a flushed face. She laughed in her heart... Ace was still the same loverboy that she took advantage of when she took his virginity.


    Becca placed a hand on him and kissed his lips... giving Ace a deep sensation kiss. "I promise that I will only love you know Ace..." She whispered to him after their long kiss.


    Ace happily smiled at her. "I love you too. I will go out and get you something to eat and phone for you. Kris doesn''t know about this place, so we are safe here."


    "Ok. I''ll be waiting." Becca smiled.


    Ace gave Becca another kiss on the forehead and then walked out the door.


    He closed the door shut.


    Ace quickly spit on the plant pot outside the door and wiped his mouth.


    "Disgusting woman..." He muttered and walked away from the room.


    He grabbed his phone and sent a text.


    Unknown: We need to talk.


    After a few minutes, he got a replied back.


    Ada: Old place. See you in 10, Ace.


    Ace spoke with Dr. Who on a few things. He got a change of clothes and then quickly left.


    Kris arrived at the meeting place a few minutes late. He looked at the empty bench and walked over to it. He had a long day... one hell of a day.


    He sat on the bench and closed his eyes, reminiscing the old memories that this place had. Kris waited and waited... but it seems like he was the only one here. After half an hour had passed, Ace was still not here.


    A phone suddenly rung out of nowhere. Kris looked under the bench and noticed a cellphone taped underneath it. He grabbed the cellphone and answered it.


    "How''s sister-in-law?"


    "She''s not your sister-in-law." Kris replied.


    "That''s right... she''s still unmarried."


    "Are we really going to have this talk over the phone...?" Kris looked around. Ace must be somewhere near.


    "I thought about a face to face... but I realized that I am not strong enough to look you in the face." Ace replied then paused. "You were right... she was never worth it from the beginning. We use to hide here every time grandfather would hit us. You would always take it all in like it was nothing. I would always come here and cry. Remember how you hung me over the edge of the cliff until I stopped crying?"


    "I do."


    "Funny how things have changed. You couldn''t feel a thing back then... and now our roles are reversed. All I can feel is deep regret."


    "..." Kris did not reply.


    "I rushed and ran to her like my life was over... hearing that you were going to take her out yesterday. But you know what? When I saw her body bleed lifelessly on the bed... I didn''t even feel a thing. More like I wished she was dead at that moment. I wanted to pull my knife and stabbed her eyes out and cut out her heart."


    "So what did you do?" Kris asked.


    "I saved her, of course. Isn''t that what you wanted me to do?"


    "You can do whatever you want with her."


    Ace let out a breath. "There is a chip hidden in the cellphone. It was taken out of Becca''s body when they pulled the bullet out of her. They thought it was a second bullet but it seemed like she hid some stuff in there."


    "Why are you giving this to me?"


    "Becuase... I told you before Kris... we''re inseparable. I will protect you and everything you love."


    "And I have told you before, stay away from Lena."


    "Why? Are you scared that I will tell her your deepest and darkest secrets, and that she will leave you?"


    "There is no secret dark enough to make her leave me." Kris assured.


    "That''s good. Now I really want to meet this woman of yours even more. But... we''ll leave that for another date. I didn''t look at what was on the chip. But what I do know is that Becca has someone else who can back her if you are no longer hers."


    "Who?"


    "I don''t know yet... but she''ll be dead once I know. But don''t worry, brother, I will be the one to kill her this time."


    At that response, the call ended. Kris looked at the cellphone and then cracked open the back. He spotted a small chip hidden in the inside compartments. He took it out and looked at it. It was coated with something so it would not be damaged by water or blood.


    What could be so important that Becca had to hide this inside her body?


    Kris head back to the hospital while Ace head back to Becca.


    When Ace returned, Becca was on the bed eating.


    "You''re back." She happily replied. "I was scared that you were leaving  me here."


    "You know that I would never do that." Ace replied and walked over to her. He took out a cellphone from his pocket and placed it on Becca''s bedside table. "Your phone."


    "Is it... safe?"


    "Untraceable."


    "Good."


    "Becca..." Ace sternly looked at her. "I can''t help you further if you don''t tell me anything. I can''t also keep you safe."


    "I am sorry." Becca pleaded innocence. "I will make the call tomorrow morning. You can stay and listen in."


    "Ok." Ace replied. He kissed Becca on the forehead and left, saying that he needed to prepare some things if they were going to go with their plan.

 Chapter 310 - Ace and Becca (3)

    Ace only visited Becca again to have dinner with her. Other than that, he was out again, pretending to be busy.


    He knew that Becca was up to something. He just didn''t know what yet, but he had to prepare for everything little scheme she had up her dirty sleeves.


    As expected, Becca pretended to sleep for a good two hours before waking up. She grabbed the phone that Ace had given her before. She cracked open the phone and inspect it, to make sure there were no bugs in it.


    When it was safe, she dialed a number.


    What Becca did not know was that the phone doesn''t need a real physical bug in it. As long as the Bluetooth was enabled and the phone was cloned properly, Ace can trace any outgoing or incoming calls and messages from the phone.


    Ace was looking through the camera footage in Becca''s room. He was in a different area of the building. After all, every single place here is full of cameras. Dr. Who needed his illegal hospital business to be secured.


    "Trace the call." Ace demanded from a person whose fingers starting hammering the keyboard.


    "Hello, this is Azure''s gift delivery service. My name is Allu, how may I help you?" A lady''s voice picked up the call.


    "I am calling to check on a delivery package that I have not received yet." Bella answered.


    "I see. Do you have the package tracking code?"


    "Yes. It was a specialty delivery package. Tracking code MC1466DP."


    Over the phone, there were noises of the lady looking up the tracking code. "I see. You are our VIP customer. Please hold while I transfer you."


    *Beep Beep Beep*


    After a few seconds, the call got connected again.


    "Hello?" A man''s deep voice was heard.


    "It''s me." Bella spoke.


    "So I see you are still alive... and annoying as ever. You better have a good reason to be calling me at this time of the night."


    "Oh please... you''re probably just getting laid like every other night."


    "What do you want, b*tch?!"


    "I am here to collect the favor you owe me."


    "Hah.... are you finally turning around and betraying that mother of yours?"


    "Remember, you''re only alive now because I let you live. I found you years ago and let you go... don''t think I don''t know where you are right now."


    "You have betrayed that Madam Li since the beginning. She wasted good food and effort to grow you up. Look at you now, you''re hungry monster. Just tell me what you want." The man''s voice was getting impatient.


    "I need you to get rid of Lena Shen for me."


    "That slut again?!"


    "Again? Isn''t it because you failed the last time that we''re all in this situation? You can''t even kill that nerdy boy too. This time... I want her dead. No mistakes."


    "I swear I killed her. And that stupid boy too. I don''t know how both of them are still alive. If it wasn''t for that stupid Eva girl crying... I would have put more bullets into both of them. And I barely got out of the building when the Kris Li and his team infiltrated the place."


    "Are you backing out?" Bella questioned him.


    "Backing out...? Why... because that Miss is now with your boyfriend? Please, b*tch... I caused his mother to crash and killed his father... I would not hesitate to kill anything related to the Li family, including you. But I am a man of my words... this one last favor, and we''re done."


    "Good. I''ll come to see you in a week''s time. I will have everything set up by then.. you just need to go with the plan." Bella confirmed.


    "Yeah, whatever."


    Bella hung up the call and then put the phone into the glass of water on the side of her bed. She smiled and laid back on the bed.


    "You''re dead this time... Lena. I''ll make sure of it."


    Bella closed her eyes and went to sleep.


    --------


    Ace looked at the dark room and then turned to the man on the computer.


    "Did you trace it?" He asked.


    "Both." The man answered. "I got the first ping from the fake delivery place and also where the second call was transferred to. They used a good system but their backdoor was weak."


    "Good." Ace walked over to the computer screen and looked at it. He scoffed. "So he... is still hiding in the Bai''s territory. I guess Kris is also killing two birds with one stone again."


    "Kris... so you are getting back with him?" Dr. Who, who was standing by the door spoke.


    "I am not getting back with him... I am just paying him back what I owe him." Ace turned around. "When are you getting back with Tye?"


    "YOU! You don''t speak of that man in my house. His name is taboo."


    "Yes... but I see you''re still drooling over him, Aiden."


    "It seems you don''t want that item that you asked me for." Dr. Who changed the topic.


    "Oh, you have it already?"


    "Of course. I am a very efficient man." He handed a vial to Ace.


    Ace took it and looked at the clear liquid. He smiled. "Have you met my sister-in-law?" Ace asked.


    "That woman... what was her name?"


    "Lena."


    "Yes.. her. Thank god for that lady. If she didn''t come to steal that Li boy away from my handsome Tye--"


    "Ah... so are still drooling over him."


    "Shut up!"


    The computer boy just looked at his boss and Ace''s conversation. Who''s Tye...? Is that the man who''s pictures are plastered all over his boss''s room?


    His boss is crazy. Some days he would make out with the pictures and other days he would burn them just to print them again. Just how crazy are these people...


    He sighed and took out the secured thumb drive he saved the information and conversation from just before.


    "Mr. Ace, here." He handed it to Ace.


    "Thanks." Ace put the vial in his pocket and grabbed the thumb drive. "And by the way, Doctor... my sister-in-law has amazing powers to make people obey her... if you get on her good side, she might just be able to hook you up with the other doctor."


    Ace spoke and then started walking away.


    "I told you, I don''t care about him!" Dr. Who shouted. Then after a short paused, he quickly chased after Ace. "Well, I mean... does she really? Will I get my head chopped off if I see her?"


    "We''ll both get our head to chopped off if we see her."


    "Then why did you even suggest that!"


    Ace smiled and continued walking.


    "You know something... you''re planning something..." Dr. Who pointed a finger at Ace.

 Chapter 311 - Not alone.

    While everything was still very hectic, Lena did not go back on her word for grounding Kris. Kris really thought that she was joking, but no, she was serious.


    "Grounding people is a western thing." Kris complained. "You can spank me instead."


    "Nope. You will get more thrilled about getting spank." Lena slammed the door on Kris.


    "How long?" Kris placed his forehead on the door.


    "48 hours."


    "...." Kris banged his head on the door.


    Lena ignored him and walked over to Gary who had finally woke up.


    "You know... you should be more gentle towards him. What if he leaves you?" Gary spoke.


    "Leave??" Lena choked. "He dares to. I will chop off his ding dong."


    "I heard that!" Kris shouted, still pouting outside the door. He was supposed to be on a long vacation with Lena. He didn''t even get to see her in the fancy gifts he bought her.


    "Leave Kris. Or I will bump it up to 72 hours."


    "..." Kris banged his head on the door a few more times then left. He made sure to give the guards who are outside the room a devil''s glare before leaving.


    Lay, who is replacing Collin, hold his laughter and followed Kris out.


    Collin wanted to hold back his wedding due to all the chaoticness, but Lena told him to proceed. Stella waited years for him, and some small matters like this shouldn''t stop them from getting married.


    If anything is needed at the moment, a nice wedding would be a good break from all of this mayhem.


    "I am scared that you are grounding him... and spending that time with me instead. Should I be grateful I didn''t die?" Gary joked.


    "Stop saying that. You need to get laid, get married, have kids, kill a few people and then grow old and die."


    Gary laughed and then Lena did too.


    "But seriously.... you''re a bit.. looking too fine considering you almost gave me a heart attack." Lena put her hand on his forehead.


    "I am fine, Lena. Seriously."


    "...." Lena sighed and sat down by the bed. "Is this... about the kidnapping? Erik I meant, his kidnapping."


    Gary looked at Lena and then stared at the ceiling. They were still in the basement of the hospital until Gary was well enough to be moved elsewhere.


    "You know about it?" Gary asked.


    "Just what''s on the news and the rumors at work." Lena replied. "Before I joined your company, I obviously did research on my future boss."


    "And what did you find out?"


    "Grew up with a golden spoon. Spoiled Young Master but determined to follow his own dreams. Rich, strong family background, but everyone said that you treat everyone like friends. When people look at you, they don''t see a scary boss... but someone who they respect."


    "Is that what people say about me?" Gary pondered... thinking back to how his original personality was before it was mixed with this body he was in now.


    "And then there are the gossips about your kidnapping. Some said it was your evil stepmother... others said it was your uncle..."


    "None of those."


    "Regardless... people said that because of that... you don''t ever lock your doors. Not your car door, house door, office door. You used to be claustrophobic too, right? But you grew out of it I think. You always carry a pocketknife with you. And you don''t ever eat anything unless it was sent by your sister."


    "Wow... you know so much about me." Gary complimented Lena. "I would assume you had a crush on me, Shen Qian."


    "Oh please... it was just so I don''t make a mistake and get fired. And yet... where did that brain of Lena go that she dare get me fired!" Lena slammed a hand on the bed.


    "I didn''t think the trauma would carry over so strong. I lock my doors. I don''t carry a pocket knife with me 24/7. I actually thought that it was quite nice... and Gary''s situation before... it was nothing compared to what I went through as a child. I mean, the counseling with Tye helped too so I didn''t felt that something was wrong, you know?"


    Lena nodded her head. She also thought at first that she was fine too, but she got the help she needed.


    "But when one of your many boyfriends put me in that room, tied up, and so... everything just exploded. I---"


    "I punched him."


    "Thanks."


    "Should I kill him for you too?" Lena offered.


    "No. You don''t have to get your hands dirty for me. The Erik side of me will get my revenge myself." Gary responded. He said the Erik side of him because Erik''s personality was a bit tough and rough compared to Gary. Gary had brains.. but not a lot of guts.


    "Oh...."


    "Oh what? That doesn''t sound like a good Oh..." Gary looked at Lena who avoided his eye contact.


    "Did I skip the part where I met your dad?" Lena''s hands fidgeted.


    "...."


    "I brought Kris along with me... does that make it sound better."


    "No..." Gary looked at her. What did he expect though? This was something Lena would definitely do. "So... are you not going to tell me the details?"


    "Well... I don''t want to give you a heart attack."


    "...." Gary sighed and laid further back on his bed. "I wasn''t going to tell you yet about him. Honestly... more like I don''t know what to do with that man."


    "And what about the Yang family?"


    "That too... I just... I just kind of wish to run away from all of this. Start my own company... start my own family without this crap of family behind me."


    "Then just do it."


    "What does it look like I am doing...?"


    "I kinda made fun of you in front of your dad..." Lena confessed.


    "When have you not make fun of me in front of anyone?"


    "I called you a dog. Who wags its tail and lick my feet."


    "Ahaha.." Gary''s mood lightened up a bit. "That''s true."


    "And then I called everyone else dogs too."


    "I don''t know how you got out of his place alive... honestly, you are one crazy woman."


    Lena smiled and grabbed his hand. "Let''s stop hiding behind the shadows. You''re not alone, Gary. I am not going to leave you again, and you''re not allowed to leave me again too."


    "Do you ever think about... going back? If there was a way?" Gary asked.


    "I used to. When I was first here... but then I began to believe that I was here for a reason... for a bigger purpose. And I did find that purpose. That one thing that will make me stay here. No regrets."


    "Kris?"


    "Well, I guess you can put it one word like that," Lena answered.


    "There''s a lot of things that I did not do... as Erik... that I regretted. And Gary.. also did not do a lot of things too, which he regretted. I felt that this new second chance is for both of us to make up for all the things we missed out on."

 Chapter 312 - Goodbye, my love.

    Lena and Gary continued to have a good heartfelt chat about things. Lena discussed some plans with Gary regarding what he wanted to do next regarding his father and the Yang family.


    Around dinner, Lena received a text from Tyler.


    Tyler: Can we talk? :sadface:


    Gary looked at Lena. "If he can still make a sad face... then you didn''t punch him hard enough." He spoke.


    "Should I go punch him again?" Lena joked but then she replied back to Tyler.


    Lena: Sure, meet me in 15.


    Lena sent the message and then looked at Gary again. "By the way... I jabbed Tyler with something of yours."


    "What things of mine?"


    "That needle thing of yours."


    "What needle.... Oh... OH!" Gary looked horrified.


    "What is it? What''s in the needle?"


    Gary went close to Lena and whispered to her ear. Lena''s face turned black.


    "So.. it''s a good thing right?" Lena asked. "Cuz it''s bad.... but I gave it to Tyler.. so it''s good?"


    Gary smiled at her. "I am still going to tie that man up one day... and leave him in a room with Dr. Tye."


    "AHAHA!" Lena laughed. "You have to remember the whip too!"


    At the next moment, Lena recieved another text. But it was not from Tyler this time but from Kris.


    Kris: Ur not allowed to go see him


    Lena: Ur grounded so ur not supposed to text me


    After a few seconds, Lena received a few more text messages.


    Lay: Kris said that you are not allowed to go see him


    Lay: Who''s him?


    Lay: He also said that you are not allowed to stay late with Gary


    Lay: I think Kris really don''t like being grounded


    Lay: Do you think I can get invited to dinner too?


    Lay: So I can get away from this devil?


    Lay: How does Collin put up with this man every day?


    Lena did not reply back to Lay or any other phone Kris was using to contact her. Gary did not feel hungry so he only ate something light before taking his medicine and going to bed.


    After a few minutes, Tyler texted back to her that he was waiting for her in the lobby. Lena grabbed her bag and left the room. Without a word, Lena could sense that one of the bodyguards also followed her.


    When Lena went up to the lobby, she went to get Tyler and they both went to the cafeteria. Lena got a hot coffee from the vending machine and sat down on a table further away from other people.


    Tyler sat across from her while the bodyguard sternly behind Lena.


    "So..." Lena took a sip of her coffee. It was very hot so she blew on it.


    "How is he?" Tyler asked.


    "Oh... so you''re concerned about him now?"


    "No." Tyler honestly replied.


    "He''s fine. But there won''t be a next time." Lena assured. "And don''t think that Gary won''t get revenge on you. You just made an enemy with someone who can wipe out your system in 10 minutes. Better back a backup for your backup system."


    "I''ll take that into precaution... but I am not here to talk about him." Tyler looked at Lena. "I am here about you."


    Lena glanced up from her hot coffee and looked at him. She gave him a confused look.


    "Guessed all the chances I had... for something to happen between us are zero now?"


    "Chances..? You never had a chance in the first place." Lena replied.


    "Hah.." Tyler laughed and then look down. "I just wanted to know though... if you never met Kris, would I stood a chance?"


    "..." Lena took a moment to think about the situation. "I don''t know... it''s hard to imagine a life without him. And you don''t really know how much you are in love with someone until you lose them."


    Lena continued to blow on her coffee. She took another sip before continuing. "You can have a crush on someone, but you will never really know if it''s love until you go through enough with them to know if they are the one."


    There was a good amount of silence as Tyler just stared at Lena and she was just casually drinking her coffee.


    "I want a hug." Tyler suddenly requested.


    As he said that, the guard took a step close to Lena. Lena paused and look at Tyler. She knew that he was serious about it.


    "I should at least get a goodbye hug."


    "Are you really saying goodbye to me?" Lena asked.


    "I once told you... I don''t pursue a married woman. I say that because I am a man who knows how to stop or take a loss. I don''t go down easy... but people also say that if you love someone... you would want what is best for them."


    "I don''t really want to hug you." Lena replied back. "But..."


    Lena placed her coffee cup on the table. She got up from her seat and walked over to Tyler. She bent down and whispered something to his ear... and then she slightly gave him a pack on the cheek.


    "Goodbye." Lena smiled.


    She grabbed her coffee and walked out... not caring one bit how horrible Tyler''s face turned. Tyler''s heart stopped beating and he blinked continuously... repeating what Lena had just whispered to his ear.


    Lena head back to the elevator to go back down to the basement.


    "Here. For you." Lena handed her coffee to the bodyguard.


    He looked at Lena and then took the coffee.


    "You seem tired.... you need it." Lena''s eyes were glued to the man''s reaction. He did not say anything. "It''s good. Taste it." Lena smiled.


    The bodyguard felt awkward... but he can''t go against the Lady boss'' word. He slowly brought the cup to his lips and took a sip.


    "Its good." He replied.


    "What''s your name?" Lena asked.


    "It''s Brandon." He replied.


    Just then, the elevator door opened.


    "Good. Well, Brandon... I hope Kris doesn''t hear a single word about what happened today." Lena walked out. "Or... Might I remind you that I did drink from that same cup of coffee... I wonder how Kris would react from hearing that."


    Lena turned around and walked back to Gary''s room, once again, not regarding how terrified the innocent bodyguard''s face was.


    He looked like he was about to cry. He was contemplating to report to his boss... or saving his life.. why is the Lady Boss as much as a devil as the big Boss??!!

 Chapter 313 - Kriss desk

    Lena only stayed with Gary for a bit as she caught up on all the news she missed.


    Currently, the situation between LUX and SHEN had died down and replaced with all the events that recently happened. But even if that was now buried under the top news, Lena''s legal team is still pursuing charges on Mikayla and her company for the fraudulent and copyright charges.


    Milo sent Lena a message that everything should be wrapped up by next week.


    Lena worked on a few stuff. She also made sure to call her parents. She did not want them to worry too much about her.


    It was before midnight when Lena finally got home. She was dropped off. She immediately went to her apartment and got ready to go to bed.


    Gary was being moved early the next morning to a new location that he chose this time. A place with his own security and liking even though Lena just helped him bought his apartment not too long ago.


    The next day past smoothly. Lena did not hear anything from Kris. No complaints. He was striving really well. Gary was mentally better again as he continued his recovery with Tye again.


    Lena visited SHYNE and lunch with her mother.


    Because of the recent event, Lena always traveled with James or someone from Kris'' team.


    "Miss, we are here," James replied as he parked the car outside a store.


    Lena glanced out her window, wondering if she was in the correct place. However, just then, the person she was meeting came outside.


    "Lena! You''re here! Come, come."


    Lena opened her door and stepped out of the car. "Stella."


    "Girl, look at you. I felt like Collin grew old these past few days but it looked like you grew younger instead? What is your secret for the bride?" Stella led Lena inside as James followed them.


    "You really want to know?" Lena asked and Stella nodded. Lena went close to her ear and whispered to her. "Just restrain from ***."


    "What?" Stella was surprised. "I think Collin and I are going to grow old really fast." She laughed. "Well, hurry in, we have to get your nails done!"


    Stella and Collin don''t have a lot of family members. And there were not very rich and famous people, so they wanted their wedding to be small and just a few close people. They are having their wedding in City H where Stella''s family lives now.


    She was getting her nails done here before leaving for City H tomorrow in preparation for the wedding. Everything was already set up and the weather was going to be nice.


    Lena sat down and both of them got their nails done. They both went for dinner after their nails were done.


    "So... how are you?" Stella asked Lena after they were done ordering their food.


    "Are you asking me as my shrink or as a friend of a friend," Lena replied.


    "Both??"


    "Struggling... but at the same time, I feel great. Like the more battles there are, the stronger I am. Many things happened at the same time, but I am not alone at handling them all. I have a strong family who supports me. A crazy man by my side and great friends."


    "Crazy man indeed..." Stella took a sip of her wine. "Any talk on marriage yet?"


    "HAh....no." Lena also took a sip of her drink. "We were supposed to look at some houses early this week... but that got pushed back."


    "Houses? Wow... how long did it take for Collin to ask me to come to stay with him? It was like forever. But even so, we didn''t live together."


    "Why so?"


    "Just preference and work. But life''s different when you are married." Stella''s eyes brightened up. "Ahh... I really have to thank you for that. I don''t know how long I could continue to wait for Collin and his stupid bunch of idiots."


    They both laughed and then shortly their food arrived. Stella talked to Lena about how her wedding planning had been. Stella gave Lena a big hug before they both went their separate ways.


    Lena was tired, but she had one final stop before going back home.


    After a long day of being all over town, she was finally in her apartment. During the time she had "grounded" Kris, she had not used the speed elevator at all.


    She put her bags of stuff nicely away and then lied down on her bed. She made a quick call to Gary to make sure he was fine and settled down in his new place.


    Lena spent the rest of the night looking through some things on her phone before finally falling asleep.


    Lena slept for a long time before finally waking up. She got dressed and ate breakfast before leaving her apartment. On one hand, Lena had a bag of items and her other hand held a coffee mug.


    When she got down, James quickly walked over and help Lena with her stuff.


    "Where are going today?" James asked.


    "To visit my boyfriend." Lena smiled. It had been a long 48 hours and she missed him a lot, although she does not show it as clearly.


    James nodded and quickly drove safely to the Li company.


    When they arrived, Lena continued to hold her coffee and drink it as the head up to Kris'' office. Everyone smiled and greeted Lena. James held the bag Lena had this morning and followed her.


    "Do you think Miss. Shen is here to save us all?" One of the workers whispered as Lena past them.


    "I hope so... I heard CEO Li had been torturing every single department." The worker shivered. "Only time I am glad I was not promoted..."


    When Lena arrived to the top floor, a young man quickly came and greeted her. Lena noticed that that room was very empty... where did all the workers go?


    "Hello, Miss. Shen. Are you here to see CEO Li?" His eyes sparkled.


    "Is he in a meeting?"


    "Yes!" He immediately replied.


    "I can wait until he finishes his meeting." Lena replied.


    "Do you want me to tell him that you are here?"


    "No... I don''t want to bother him. I''ll just be in his office." Lena replied.


    "Alright. If you need anything, I''ll be right out here." The young man sweetly spoke.


    Lena smiled at him and then walked into Kris'' office. She grabbed for the bag out from James and set it on the table.


    "I''ll be Kris for the rest of today, you can leave early." Lena told James. "And make sure you are prepared for the wedding too."


    James was Lena''s personal guard so he would be attending the wedding with her too.


    James nodded and then silently left.


    As the door close, Lena grabbed the bag and dumped its content onto the table. She grabbed a few of the picture frames and walked over to Kris''s desk.


    Lena tossed Kris'' boring items aside and set two beautiful picture frame with a picture of just her and the other with both of them.


    She went back and grabbed another picture frame that has a picture of his mother.


    With just three additional items, his desk already looked more lively and normal like other people''s desks. Lena was considering bringing in some flowers to his office every week. But wait... isn''t she having this reverse? Kris should give her flowers every week.


    Lena sat on Kris''s chair and continued to do some online shopping on her phone while she waited for him to be done.


    After a while, she looked at her time and an hour had already past. How long does this man have meetings for?


    Lena sighed. She put down her phone and started snooping around Kris''s office instead. She looked at some of the proposals on his desk. He had a large stack on them that she knew he had yet to go through them.


    Somehow... she was able to be away from him for 48 hours.. but being here now, where the f*ck is him?! Lena was getting impatient. She closed her eyes for a bit. Before she knew it... a bit turned into a short nap.

 Chapter 314 - A few more minutes.

    Only the sound of her grumbling stomach woke her up from her uncomfortable sleeping position. Her head was on the desk. Lena opened her eyes and cracked her neck. She got up from the chair and stretched her body.


    "What time is it..?" Lena talked to herself.


    She glanced at the clock and it was 2 past noon. She had been here for hours now and Kris was not back yet? Or he did come back but because she was asleep, he didn''t wake her up? No... if he came back and saw her like that, he would have moved her to a more comfortable position.


    Lena had plenty of sleep last night... she did not expect to nap soundless again. The memory of her sleeping last time and what happened then flashed through her mind.


    She breathed and then head out of the office.


    Lena opened the door and spotted the young man silently working at his desk. He was so focused that he did not see Lena walking towards him.


    "Did Kris come back?" Lena softly spoke.


    The young man look from his desk. "Oh, Miss. Shen. No, CEO Li is still in his meeting."


    "...." Lena looked at him. "The same one?" The man nodded. "Exact same one from this morning." He nodded again.


    Lena sighed and put a hand on her forehead.


    "Did you have lunch yet?" Lena asked the young man.


    "No... I can''t have lunch until the boss is done with his meeting."


    "...." Lena sighed again. "Where is the meeting?"


    "I... I can take you there." The young man spoke. He could feel that she was unhappy.


    He quickly sat up from his chair. He walked to the elevator and both went down to a lower floor. He led Lena straight to the room. He was about to knock, but Lena stopped him.


    "You have not had your lunch yet, right? Why don''t you go take your lunch." Lena smiled at him and dismissed him.


    Just looking at the room, the curtains were closed shut and it was dark in it. Lena scrunch her eyebrows... what kind of creepy meeting is this?


    Lena put her hand on the doorknob and opened the door.


    "And here you have---" The man stopped speaking once he noticed the door open and bright light from the hallway entered the room.


    "Who---" Lay turned his head to yell at who was interrupting their very very very important meeting but he immediately spotted Lena standing at the door. Obviously not in a good mood.


    "Lena..." Kris also looked at her. He had not seen her for just more than two days... and she looked for stunning!


    "Oh sorry." Lena sarcastically spoke. "Did I interrupt the very important meeting that took longer than 6 damn hours and making me miss my damn lunch waiting on you? I apologize." She crossed her arms.


    Kris smiled. He missed this snarky attitude of hers. He clicked a button and the lights turned on. Everyone in the room blinked, adjusting their eyes to the lights.


    Kris stood up from his chair and walked over to Lena. He quickly gave her a peck on the cheeks.


    "Yes, you did interrupt my very important meeting... But I forgive you." He gave Lena another kiss on the other cheek.


    He turned to look at his employees. "Meeting''s over. We will continue after I am back." He said in a stern voice.


    Kris held Lena''s hand and walked out first. However, Lena immediately stopped him from leaving.


    She gave him a stern glare to which Kris looked at her confusingly... and then smiled.


    "Oh... and lunch is on me. Order anything and Lay will take care of it." Kris spoke and nodded at Lay.


    After that, Kris and Lena left the room and head toward the elevator.


    They entered the elevator and Lena looked at Kris again, still angry and confused at him.


    "Seriously, Kris... you can skip lunch but you can''t starve other people."


    Lena was giving Kris a lecture inside the elevator and he was just staring at her with sparkly eyes like a drunk man in love.


    "Stop staring at me like that, it''s creepy."


    Kris stepped closer to Lena. "Staring at you like what?" He gave her a wink.


    Lena took a step back and blushed. Doesn''t he know that handsome man winking can give a girl a heart attack?


    "I miss you." Kris softly whispered to her as he slowly touched her hair and slid it behind her ears.


    Lena felt breathless. It had just been two days... and Kris looked like an insanely hot monster. She could feel her face heat up and his face got closer to hers. She closed her eyes.


    Kris smiled at her lovely reaction. His hand settled behind her neck and pushed her closer to him. He gently kissed her lips.. softly before his craving rose up and he started to nibble on her soft lips.


    Lena placed her hands on his hard chest and kissed him back.


    Her hands crawled up to his neck and then to the side of his face. She kissed him hard until he let him in.


    Kris silently chuckled inside... he thought that he was a beast.. but he always forgets who was the real beast in their relationship.


    He opened his mouth for her, as their intense elevator kissed continued on until it dinged.


    "Ah.." Lena immediately pushed away Kris as the door started to open.


    Kris let out a soft chuckle, as he clicked on the door to close back up and then locked the elevator.


    "A few more minutes..." Kris smiled at her as he brought her close to him again and immediately started kissing her again.


    "Mhmm..." Lena moaned between the kisses. "Yes.. a few more minutes."


    Lena did not know how long they were making out in the elevator. She was hoping no one could hear them also. It was not until her stomach started grumbling that Kris stopped. He chuckled happily at her.


    "I had forgotten my baby did not eat lunch, sorry." He kissed her on the forehead and pat her stomach.


    Kris''s hand reached over to hit the button to unlock and open the elevator door but Lena stopped him.


    "Wait!" Lena shouted.


    Lena grabbed the handkerchief from Kris''s pocket. She placed a hand on Kris''s cheeks for him to look at her and then started dabbing his lips.


    "It''s very red...." She blushed. She didn''t know her new lipstick was so transferrable. She will not use it again.


    Lena dabbed the handkerchief on her tongue to wet it then cleaned Kris''s lips some more. Then, she started cleaning her lips.


    She adjusted his tie and shirt. She spot check her clothes before giving Kris the okay.


    "It''s not like we are having an affair..." Kris rolled his eyes. "Everyone knows about us."


    "So... I am not gonna walk out like I am a hungry woman. People don''t need to know that."


    "Mhm..." Kris pressed the buttons and the door opened.


    £¬

 Chapter 315 - You torture me. (R-18)

    Kris walked out of the elevator, one hard around Lena''s waist. He had a big cheerful smile across his face.


    Everyone stopped and looked at the couple. Obviously... their boss in only in a good mood whenever it was with Miss. Shen.


    Kris greeted the front desk ladies and smiled at them.


    "Good work, today." Kris commented on them.


    When they left and walked out of the building, all the girls huddled and squealed.


    "Ahh... I wish he would smile at us like that every day." One of them spoke.


    "I know right... even if he''s taken... I would be happy that he''s happy." Another one cried.


    "Do you think they will get married soon? Imagine little boss babies... Aiya..."


    When they got to Kris''s car, Kris opened the door for Lena first and then hopped over to the driver''s seat. He pulled the seat belt on himself and turned to Lena.


    But just then, Lena used her fingers and squeezed Kris''s lips.


    "Did I just see you smile at another woman... two, three of them?!"


    "Sowwyy.." Kris was enjoying this. He knew that he was not supposed too... but his mind was never straight anyways.


    Lena lets him go and crossed her arms on her seat. "I want seafood." She demanded.


    ''When do you not want seafood??'' Kris commented on her demand inside his head. He started his car and started to drive.


    ======


    Kris and Lena did not return until two hours after their lunch. Lena took her lovely time to enjoy her unlimited shrimps, crabs, and lobsters.


    They went back to his office because Lena had to grab her things and she wanted to show Kris what she did to his desk.


    When they went up to his office, Lena covered his eyes and lead him to sit on his chair. Then she removed her hands from his eyes.


    "You like?" She asked.


    Kris stared at the desk and spotted the changes immediately. He glanced up and smiled at her.


    "Yeah."


    He grabbed the picture of his mom and looked at it. Then he grabbed the picture of Lena and him and stared at it for a while.


    "You know..." Kris spoke. "I would need a bigger desk to fit all the pictures of our kids."


    Lena gave Kris a slap on his shoulder. "Silly... you hang those on the walls." Lena pointed to his empty wall. "And you just need one big family photo on your desk."


    Kris placed the pictures back on his desk. He grabbed Lena''s hand so she sat on his lap.


    "You like torturing me... don''t you?" Kris said. "I felt like I was the only one in pain not being able to see you for a few days."


    "It''s just your mind playing games on you." Lena replied. "We have been away from each other for more than two days. But you see... if it''s me forcing you, then you miss me more. Whereas if you were to be gone for two days... for let''s say private secret things... then you wouldn''t miss me as much."


    Kris held Lena''s chin and gave her a quick kiss. "You torture me."


    Lena''s eye brightened up. She sat up from Kris and then sat back down on his lap, straddling her legs on Kris''s.


    "Is that so....? I am not denying that." Lena smiled at him and gave him a soft kissed on his lips.


    As they parted, Kris looked at Lena''s beastly eyes. "Are you thinking what I am thinking of?"


    "I am not psychic.. how can I know what you are thinking about?" Lena continued to smile at him. She grabbed his tie and started removing it. "So...."


    "You like torturing  me." Kris quickly picked up Lena and sat her on his desk. He pressed the button to lock his office doors while he brought Lena in for a deep kiss.


    After that, Kris trailed his kisses down her neck. Lena arched her neck so he can more room.


    "Kris... remember, we still have to pick up your suit and my dress." Lena reminded him. "Ah... and you can''t miss your flight in the morning... can''t be late for that bachelor''s party that have been planned for years now."


    He picked Lena up from the desk and tossed her down at the large soft sofa. "That''s in the morning." He replied and started removing unbuttoning his shirt.


    "Wait..."


    Kris stopped at glared at Lena. "You can''t say wait midway through, babe. Don''t worry.. I''ll make sure we get out before dinner." He threw his shirt on the floor and tackled Lena.


    Lena screech but also openly accepted his love.


    One. Two. Three? Lena lost count after they did in front of the window. Although she knew that it was a one-way window, this type of borderline exhibitionism really excites their sexual activities.


    When they were done, they were both on the floor. Lena turned sideways so she could see the beautiful city lights at night.


    Kris put his leg over Lena''s body and pulled him closer to him, resting his head on his hand.


    "You know what else I also learned?" Kris asked.


    "Hmm?"


    "My girlfriend is as bipolar like me."


    Lena turned around and looked at his handsome face. Their naked bodies tangled in the carpeted floor.


    "How so?" She wondered.


    "Just about a week ago... You stick to me like glue... and then you didn''t bat an eye when you decided to ground me..." Kris explained.


    Lena touched his chin. She noticed that probally had not shaved for awhile. She turned her entire body toward him, lifting up his heavy leg from her.


    "I am still scared of that nightmare. But.." Lena paused to give him a kiss. "it doesn''t mean that I can tame the mind to not miss you too much. It''s a great thing to remember that the one you love is not the only person in the world."


    "I''ll remember that." Kris hugged Lena. "So... How was meeting with Tyler?"


    "Are you sure you want me to talk about him?"


    "We''re not in bed." Kris confirmed.


    "Oh.. is that so? Well, then. It was a short meeting. We said our goodbyes."


    "Is that it? You really said goodbyes?" Kris looked at Lena.


    "I did tell him what was in that syringe that I stabbed him with. He did not look so good."


    "..." Kris was still anxiously waiting for Lena to continue.


    "After the goodbye kiss.... on the cheek."


    "That''s what I thought." Kris picked Lena up from the floor and pinned her back to the cold window.


    "You know... kissing on the cheeks can be really goodbyes and hellos."


    "I know." Kris replied casually. He showed no emotions of anger.


    "Plus... apart from the bad things he did to Gary... Tyler is pretty nice." Lena added.


    "Two names... as if one was not enough, you have to bring Gary in."


    "But.. You said we weren''t in be--Ah..." Lena''s feet were raised from the floor and Kris entered her in a quick motion. She grabbed his shoulders.


    "I never said we were done." Kris smiled at her.

 Chapter 316 - Mr. Unknown

    By the time they cleaned his office and got dressed, it was way past dinner. Everyone in the office was already gone.


    Lena was too tired for dinner and she slept in the car while Kris drove them back to his penthouse. He carried her up but she woke up a few minutes later.


    They took a shower together and then hopped to the bed.


    "When is your flight?" Lena asked.


    "8 a.m. I am leaving with Lay and Tye." Kris hugged Lena. "I''ll pick my suit and have someone send your dress to you so you can have it by the time you fly out too."


    Kris''s gang were flying out to City H one night early so they can all have the bachelor''s party. Lena will be flying out the next day with Gary and James, finally using the private jet that Madam Li had gifted her.


    "KRis..?" Lena called his name.


    "Hmm?"


    "Never mind. I will tell it to you another time." Lena replied.


    "You sure? I am not sleepy yet."


    "Yeah. Another time." Lena closed her eyes as she snuggled warmly next to Kris. "I love you." She softly spoke.


    "I love you more." Kris kissed the top of her head and closed his eyes too.


    ===


    The next morning, Lena woke up early to help make sure Kris got everything. And even if he missed something, she can bring it for him when she comes.


    They had breakfast together and then Kris left.


    Lena was already wide awake, so she back down to her apartment and started working on some sketches. Later that day, she called the real estate lady and rescheduled the showing for a different date.


    Madam Li also called Lena to informed her that she was not flying out. She wanted to drive there instead and enjoy some scenery.


    "Are you sure, I can join you on your road trip too if you want." Lena asked.


    "It''s alright sweetie. It will be a good time for me to have some time to myself." Madam Li replied.


    Lena paused and wondered. ''Doesn''t she always have a lot of time to herself now that I have taken most of Kris'' time?''


    "Alright then. Just call me or Kris when you arrived. We can go to the wedding together."


    "Yes. Have a safe flight." Madam Li spoke.


    After the call ended, Lena texted Kris so he was informed about his mother''s decision too. Kris said that the bachelor''s party was at 8 p.m. He sent Lena a nice photo of everyone but he cropped out Hugh.


    It was the first time Lena had seen anything physical thing about Hugh. She still does not know why Kris does not let her see Hugh.


    As Lena was preparing to spend the rest of her day at her parents, she received a text from an unknown person.


    Unknown: I want to meet with you.


    Lena ignored the text and grabbed her bags to head out. However, when she got into the elevator, she received another text.


    Unknown: It''s regarding a life and death situation with Kris.


    Lena: Who are you?


    Unknown: Neither friend nor foe.


    "..." Lena did not like that answer. She tried to call Gary but she noticed her phone was not going through. She tried calling Kris and several other people, even the emergency number, but nothing was going through.


    Unknown: I jammed you''re signal.


    Lena: You''re looking more of a foe than a friend.


    Unknown: If I want you dead, you would already be dead.


    Unknown: Cafe, across the street. You can bring James along.


    Lena got down to the ground floor and spotted James already out front waiting for her. Lena continued walking to the car. She stopped and looked at the cafe across the street.


    A part of her was telling her something was off... but another part of her was saying she needed to meet this... person.


    Lena opened the passenger door and lowered her head.


    "I need to go meet someone before we go." Lena told James. "And bring your gun."


    James nodded. As Lena closed the door, he drove the car to a parking spot and parked there. He stepped out of the car and followed Lena as she heads toward the crosswalk.


    "Who are you meeting with?" James asked.


    "Unknown." Lena replied.


    Lena crossed the street and walked inside the cafe. As she entered the store, she looked to see if there was someone weird. But instead, one of the workers walked up to Lena.


    "Miss. Shen?" She spoke.


    "Yes, that is me."


    "Right this way, to our private meeting rooms." The worker led Lena to a different side of the cafe. James followed closely. "Your meeting partner ordered you a cappuccino and some croissants, is there anything else you would like to order?"


    "No, I am good." Lena replied.


    The worker nodded and then left.


    Lena looked at the door and then James before opening it. James was on high alert, but when the door opened, he.... was confused.


    RIght when Lena opened the door, there was a young man who was casually drinking his ice coffee. On the other hand, there was an older man acting like a kid and poking the other man.


    "Uh... I am in the correct room right?" Lena asked.


    The older man stopped joking around and instantly sat up on his seat. He nudged the younger man who ignored Lena as he was looking at a text from his phone. Without looking up, the young man replied, "Yes. Take a seat, Lena."


    Lena did one of her "okay then" smile and sat across from them. James also took a seat next to Lena.


    The young man did not say another word as his eyes were stuck on his phone. Somehow, this unemotional reaction from this man kind of reminded of her.... Kris, the very first encounters they have.


    "I don''t have all day...." Lena commented.


    "Oh right." The man finally looked up and get a good look at Lena. "You''re much more pretty up close." He smiled.


    Lena was caught off guard... not because the smile was genuine but she didn''t think such personality was very familiar.


    "Have we met before?" Lena asked.


    "I don''t believe so." The man put down his ice coffee.


    "Well then, Lena Shen, as you probably already know." Lena stuck her hand out for a shake.


    The young man looked at Lena''s hand and then just look back at Lena, without taking it. Seeing that Lena was left hanging, the older man grabbed Lena''s hand and shook it.


    "Hello! I am Dr. Aid--Who, I mean. Dr. Who." The older man replied.


    At that moment, there was a knock on the door and the waiter brought in Lena''s drink and some baked goods.


    After she left, Lena grabbed a muffin and passed it to James. She grabbed a croissant for herself but did not eat it immediately.


    "It''s not poison. As I mentioned before, if I wanted to kill you, you would already be dead." The young man spoke and then grabbed a croissant for himself and took a bite of it.

 Chapter 317 - Star of the show

    Lena still did not take a bite of hers but James took initiative and took a bite of his muffin.


    "Anyways..." The young man continued. "I only brought you here to discuss some things with you. I can''t bring it up to Kris, so I am going through you instead."


    "So... I am just a messenger?" Lena replied.


    "No... you''re the star of the show." He smiled.


    "I don''t understand."


    "How much do you love Kris?" He asked.


    "Why does that matter?"


    "Would you sacrifice yourself for something that Kris had spent a long time of his life trying to move on from?"


    "That''s a stupid question." Lena smiled. "Love does not equate to sacrificing. Plus.. no matter how much I love him, is my death more beneficial to him or this thing that he had spent a long time to move on from. I can help Kris move on from a lot of things... But who is going to help him move on from me?"


    "..." Dr. Who looked at the young man and scooted next to him, whispering, "She''s scary."


    The young man chuckled. "I see. But I am not asking you to die for him... just doing something dangerous. Kris would never let something you do something dangerous unless you agree to it."


    "I still don''t see how this got anything to do with me being the star of the show." Lena questioned.


    "I guess I word that too peaceful. I should have clarified it. You''re going to be the bait."


    "Amazing!" Lena sarcastically reacted. "Bait... yet again. When am I going to be the b*tch?"


    The young man looked at Lena. In his mind... he expected this whole thing to go more smoothly.


    "Becca''s still alive." He stated.


    "No surprise." Lena looked away and took a sip of warm drink. "B*tches never die... oh wait... maybe  I am already one since I never die.. ahaha!"


    "..." Dr. Who shivered. He was starting to see why this pretty young woman has a way to make men do things for her....


    "She planning something big. And her first obstacle is getting rid of you." The young man continued.


    "But she can''t. Cuz she''s dumb and probably physically unable to right now." Lena jumped in to conclude. "So... who is she getting to do her dirty work this time? You? Mr. Tyler Huang again? Or.... someone else?"


    "I finally understand a bit more about why you can be so attractive." He replied.


    "Of course." Lena smiled. She put both of her hands on the table. "I don''t only have a pretty mouth... but my brain is pretty smart too." Lena licked the chocolate drizzled from the croissant on her lips.


    Dr. Who looked at Lena and felt a cold chill down his spine. He was very thankful that he was 100% gay or else any man right now that was not psycho like the man sitting next to him or across from him would be so turned on by the young lady at the moment.


    "Scarface." The young man replied.


    Lena stopped fooling around and sat back on her seat. She dropped her smile and seriously look at the young man across her.


    "That''s what you called him. That''s the someone she''s getting to do her dirty work." The young man passed an envelope to Lena.


    "What''s this?"


    "That''s the recording of the job. And the meeting that they had."


    "And... you want me to?"


    "Be bait." He smiled. "You are very much a wanted woman. Whether for pleasure... or revenge. The only difference this time is that your enemy is more dangerous."


    Lena opened the envelope and then passed it to James.


    "You''ve met him before... even if you''re not doing this for Kris, consider doing it for your own revenge. After all, he almost killed you and your ex-boyfriend."


    "Gary''s not my ex." Lena corrected him. "It''s Andy Yang."


    "Ah... yes. Your dog then."


    "Only I get to call him my dog." Lena corrected him again. "Just like you... are you not Becca''s dog?"


    "..." The man''s face turned dark.


    Lena smirked. She finally got a reaction from him. "So I am bait... but for this to all go very well, Kris needs to know, so that''s why I am also a messenger."


    "That''s correct. You are a weakness for Kris, you probably know that already." The young man explained. "Scarface is hiding behind the Bai family... but he is a solo killer, he has other connections deep in the system. For him to kill Kris'' father and almost killing his mother, I wouldn''t be surprised if he got some men inside the Li family."


    The young man went and grabbed something from his wallet and gave it to Lena.


    "That''s how you can contact me. You can share it with you man or not, but I won''t be talking to him at all. Only through you."


    "Why?" Lena wanted to know.


    "Everything you need to know regarding the plan will be in the recording. You will hear from me if anything changes." He did not answer Lena''s question.


    "You only waited for Kris to be out of town to contact me. You are either a coward or heavily in love with my man." Lena replied. "Are you sure it''s Becca I should watch out for...?"


    "..." The young man looked at Lena.


    Lena smiled. She grabbed the card from the table and stuffed it in her bag. "Thank you." Lena got up from her seat and started to leave.


    Lena opened the door but stopped. She looked back at the young man. "Ace."


    At that moment, Ace looked up surprisingly as Lena said his name. It was soft and pretty, unlike the way Becca always call him.


    He didn''t shake Lena''s hand because his trauma was as bad as Kris... but for him, he was not as lucky. The only woman he had loved and open his trust to was a lying sc*mbag.


    "You grew up handsome. I told myself that there were more fishes in the sea... and I ended up with the man of my life. There are more fishes in the sea... but just a tip, don''t ever steal my fishes." Lena gave him a death glare and walked out.


    As they left the room, Dr. Who finally breathed and relaxed.


    "Aiya.. I was so scared! She looks way scarier than the pictures." He pounded his beating heart.


    Ace chuckled and took a drink of his ice coffee. ''More fishes in the sea... but not everyone gets a fish.''


    "She''s definitely a sight..." Ace mumbled. "Do you think I would get invited to their wedding?" He asked Dr. Who.


    "I thought they have married already? You keep calling her sister-in-law."


    "Naw... I wish." Ace looked out the window. "C''mon. I still need to go feed my b*tchy fish at home."

 Chapter 318 - Bachelors Party.

    Lena walked back to the car as James went to the driver''s seat.


    "You know him?" James asked as he put on his seatbelt.


    "No. Not really." Lena looked out the window.


    "Are you going to tell Kris?"


    Lena looked at the time and then replied to James, "Not yet. He''s supposed to have a great time at the bachelor''s party. I will tell him after the wedding."


    James started the car and drove toward the Shen mansion.


    "And the item in the envelope, make a copy of it. Bring them with you to the jet tomorrow." Lena responded.


    James dropped Lena off at her parents and took a short stop to go do what Lena told him to do. The Shen''s place had been staffed with Kris''s people now, so the security was not as easygoing as before.


    Lena spent the rest of her day at her parents.


    On the other hand, Kris was having... a blast.


    A limo arrived and picked everyone up from the hotel. They promised Stella that they won''t make Collin too drunk. They were last-minute planners and nothing too hardcore, so it was fine to do it the only just a few days before the wedding.


    Once in the limo, everyone took one shot of drinks before they arrived at the private club. The most exited on of them all was Lay... this was his home territory.


    When they got to their private room, as planned since the beginning of time, there were str*ppers.


    "Don''t worry." Ming Zhao whispered to Kris. "I got a man for you."


    Kris immediately pushed his face away from him. "I swear if any of these people get near me, I''ll make you NOT a man by tomorrow."


    "Ahaha!" Ming Zhao laughed and then dragged Collin to the middle of the room.


    Kris sat further away from them but not too much to be a party pooper. Every of the hired staff already was informed not to go near Kris at all.


    Everyone played with the hired staff for a few hours before they were all dismissed. After that, the boys just karaoke and chatted about stupid stuff.


    "So... when are we going to see Stella pop out babies?" Lay chuckled.


    "Stella? Babies? Ahah..." Collin laughed half drunk. "Don''t you think Miss. Little Shen will start popping babies out first considering how high she is.. ahahahaha!"


    Kris glared at Collin''s comment but did not punch the man. The sound of babies has been circulating his mind lately. Kris smiled.


    "Look, he smiled... don''t tell me. We will be seeing little annoying Lena babies in 9 months?" Tye shouted.


    "Shut up." Kris smiled.


    "What do you think the girls are doing right now?" Ming Zhao changed the topic. He was referring to Stella''s bachelorette party.


    "I heard they were going to have a man str*pper come out of a big cake." Collin replied.


    "Really? I thought they were going to go skinny dipping?" Tye added.


    While they were talking about what Stella was going... in reality, she and her girls were just having a chill night out at a private sauna.


    Kris stepped out from the room when the boys started drinking again. It was already 1 past midnight. He took a glance at his phone to see that there was only one text message from Lena. And it was just a good night''s post.


    He smiled as he walked to the bathroom. When he was done with his business in the bathroom, he walked back out to return to the room.


    The boys stayed late until 3 and then they head back to the hotel and played some video games until they all died from exhaustion.


    When it was morning the next day, Kris was the first to wake up. He did not drink as much as everyone else. He woke up because his ears were picking up the special ringtone that he had for just Lena.


    As he opened his eyes, he could feel something on him.


    "Ugh..." Kris looked at Ming Zhao who was snuggled against in, wrapping his arms and legs on him.


    Kris immediately tossed the man away from him, without caring if he injured him or not. Kris ran to pick up the call but it stopped before he could get to it.


    He called Lena back. After a few rings, Lena picked up the call.


    "Hello?" She answered.


    "Did you just land?" Kris asked in his rough morning voice.


    "No... awhile ago. Already got something to eat and heading to the hotel right now."


    "Really? You didn''t text me."


    "I called you several times. Just assumed you were still knocked out with some lady next to you." Lena joked.


    Kris laughed. He looked at the lifeless body of Ming Zhao that he threw aside. "Dream on."


    "I''ll be at the hotel in 30 minutes or so. Traffic is really busy."


    "Ok.. I can get ready by then." Kris started gathering his items.


    "You don''t have to go with me, you know. You can... stay longer there until your good. I can spend the day with Gary."


    "Are you serious?" Kris replied. "I don''t think I want you spending my quality time with him."


    "I am just considering your time. Your buddy will be a married man soon."


    "So. Does that make me a married man soon?" Kris teased Lena. "If so then I can stay. If not, then I rather hang out with you."


    "Whatever," Lena responded.


    "See in you 30 then." Kris kissed her over the phone and hung up. When he turned around to grab his wallet, he spotted Ming wide awake and over his shoulder.


    "What?" Kris looked at him.


    "My a** hurts..." He complained.


    "Get away from me, your breath stinks."


    "Yours too...." Ming Zhao yawned. "Already running away before Stella comes to yell at us how we trashed this place and how f*cked up Collin is?"


    "I am not the one who keeps passing him something to drink."


    "You didn''t stop us either." Ming Zhao added.


    Kris ignored him and grabbed his wallet on the floor. He walked over the bodies all over the room as he walked out to go to his room to get ready. He only has 25 more minutes to get ready.


    Ming Zhao watched as Kris quickly leave. He looked at the room and yawned. "Jealous.." He mumbled and then head over to the bathroom to puke.

 Chapter 319 - Why you need me

    Lena, Gary, and James had to stop at the hotel to drop off their luggage and then Lena wanted to go look at an artwork gallery. It was just something she recently found out and since she was flying out to City H anyways, it would be something to kill while the wedding arrives.


    "So.... when are you going to tell him about it?" Gary asked.


    He was already caught up with everything he missed when they were on the plane. Lena told him to relax and look at the content when he has time. Gary knew that Lena was extra worried about him now, but honestly, he''s fine. If it was anything he needed, it was to get back to his normal routine.


    "After the wedding," Lena replied.


    "Is that for him... or for you?"


    "Both. If I told him right now, how much do you want to bet that he will lock me in a room and go do some mo jo sh*t?"


    "...." Gary turned around and looked out the window.


    With Lena, Kris is a saint... but even so, a person cannot run and hide from their past demons.


    "I contacted my father." Gary replied. "Tye also thought that it would be a good thing to do to get some major sources of my stress removed."


    "Oh, and how did that go?" Lena was curious.


    "The person you shot didn''t die." Gary assured her but Lena already knew that. If the man died.. then he was not worth to be considered a son of Chen Xu.


    The car stopped as James parked the car. He got out first, tossing the keys to the valet and went to the trunk to take out the luggage.


    "Whatever you talked about, I will side with you." Lena smiled.


    "Even if my father wants to go against the Li family?" Gary asked.


    "Does he?"


    "No. But that''s not the point."


    "Then sure. I''ll be the first one to shoot Kris for you." Lena teased him.


    "You''re not a very sharpshooter."


    "Says the person who can''t even hold a gun. And for your information, I shot that man with a clean shot." Lena opened the door and got out. "But no really, I wouldn''t shoot Kris for you but you get the point."


    Gary chuckled. "Yes.. I know."


    They all carried their own luggage to their hotel rooms. James and Gary had adjourning rooms while Lena''s room was adjourned with Kris. James and Gary were on a different floor so they separated at the elevator.


    Since Kris decided to tag along with Lena, that saved James from spending a boring time looking at photos. He could so a stakeout... but pretending to like the artwork is a whole new category of looking.


    When Lena entered her room, it was very large and clean. She set down her luggage and unpacked it. She got her dress out and hung it in the closet.


    After she was done, she headed over to the door that connected her room to Kris''s. She opened it to see if Kris had already opened his door. As expected, he did.


    As she walked in, Lena could hear the shower running.


    Lena knocked on the bathroom door, signaling Kris that it was her. She then hopped onto his bed and turned on the television, waiting for him to be done.


    After a few minutes, Kris came out of the bathroom. He didn''t even bother to cover himself as he quickly dried his hair with a towel.


    Lena gave him a glance and then went back to watch the television.


    Kris grabbed his clothes from the side of the bed and got dressed, slowly expecting some more attention from Lena but got nothing.


    When he was done getting dressed, he flopped on top of Lena''s body on the bed.


    *Muah* Kris gave Lena a loud kiss on her cheek then rolled off the bed and stood up.


    "I am ready." Kris looked at Lena who was rubbing off the wet kiss from her cheek.


    "..." Lena looked up at the happy man. She turned off the television and went back to her side of the room to grab her bag.


    Kris grabbed his personal items and the key to the car. Lena did not talk to Kris at all until they were sitting inside the car.


    "So... how was the party?"


    "It was alright." Kris shrugged. "By the way... what crazy things would girls do for their party?"


    "I don''t know." Lena replied. "Why... did you guys do something crazy?"


    "No."


    "Did you kiss a man?" Lena asked.


    "No!" Kris looked at Lena.


    "What?" Lena looked back at him. "That''s possible..."


    "..." Kris rolled his eyes. "You better not kiss anyone at your party."


    "No promises."


    "Uh what?!"


    "Ok." Lena laughed.


    Kris started the car and drove to the location Lena gave him. They spent most of their time there, had dinner, then went back to the hotel.


    It was the wedding tomorrow and they did not want to exhaust themselves. They had an early morning tomorrow too because Kris was one of the best men for Collin.


    And for Lena... well, somehow, women need one hundred times the amount of time to get ready than men.


    Lena told them to sleep separate since they got two separate rooms. She locked her main door and connecting doors at night, but somehow, Kris was still able to sneak into her room when she was half asleep.


    Lena kicked him off his bed and threatened him that if he does it again, she will run and go sleep with James instead. James can then go sleep with Gary.


    However, that didn''t go well. Instead, Kris carried Lena to his hotel room, tied her legs to the bed and that was how their night was spent. He did not want her to go anywhere from him.


    "I can see that you feel stress." Kris hugged Lena.


    Lena did not respond.


    "That''s why you need me. In any case that you have a stressful dream again, I want you to wake up seeing my handsome face." Kris hugged Lena tighter. "I am not leaving you tonight."


    Lena relaxed, trying not to suffocate between his warmth. She didn''t say anything as both silently fell asleep.

 Chapter 320 - Finally, a wedding.

    Lena woke up first the next morning because she needed to use the bathroom. When she came back out, Kris was just waking up from the bed.


    He gave Lena a quick morning kiss on her forehead before going into the bathroom. Kris got out and started to get ready.


    After a few minutes, Kris was ready to leave. He walked over to Lena who was drinking a cup of warm tea and just looking out the window.


    "I''m going." He spoke.


    "Mhm." Lena replied without taking her eyes off the dull morning sight outside.


    "..." Kris felt like something was off since Lena had landed. But he did not want to ask her about it. She did say that there was something she needed to tell him about.


    He bent down and gave Lena a kiss on her cheek. "The stylist will be here in an hour."


    "Ok." Lena finally looked at him. "You look handsome."


    "I haven''t even put on makeup." Kris smiled.


    Stella wanted the men perfect for her wedding. She had a whole team set up to do some light makeup on the groom and his best men. Kris didn''t even get dressed because he was meeting everyone later while they get a makeover.


    "Make sure you get some eyeliners and lip tint." Lena said.


    "...." Kris rolled his eyes.


    "I am just kidding. You might blind everyone eye''s. Your devil eyes are dark enough."


    "Tsk.." Kris grabbed Lena''s cup of tea off her hand and placed it on the counter. He then put a hand around her neck, bringing her close.


    He passionately kissed her goodbye on more time before turning around and leaving for the day.


    Lena smiled and looked at his fading figure as he left the room. She sighed and then continued to drink her tea. After the wedding... Just after the wedding then she can tell him.


    =====


    Finally... a wedding. Something nice and peaceful after the long struggle everyone had. Not just for the last few weeks, but for years.


    The morning was a traditional wedding, but the evening was western. Stella spent a good amount of her education abroad so she had always wanted a western-inspired wedding. Plus, these days, it was the way with the young couples


    Lena spent a good time with the guests. It wasn''t until the evening when she finally got some good time to spend with Kris.


    Lena smiled sweetly at the man with a light purple suit. It was the theme color that Stella had chosen for the wedding.


    "Stop staring at me like that... this feels ridiculous."


    "I think it... looks..."


    "Dark!" Kris was unhappy. "They said it would be DARK purple. People are blind." He shook his head.


    "At least it''s not pink."


    "Aha... Like hell you''ll anyone would see that."


    "But I want you to wear pink at our wedding."


    "..." Kris seriously looked at Lena and then his purple suit.


    "I was just kidding." Lena gave him a soft shoulder slap. "Our children would puke seeing you wear pink." Lena laughed.


    "Don''t joke like that.... and I will be the one puking instead." Kris continued the joke with Lena. But then he stopped and took Lena''s hand. He softly kissed it. "No pink.. please? White is fine though."


    "I''ll think about it." Lena smiled.


    "C''mon. Let''s go dance." Kris dragged Lena to the dance floor after the bride and groom had the floor.


    There were dances, drinking, and talking. Everyone said something to the groom and bride.


    Stella was very happy. She had a big smile on her face the entire time. Collin did buy her big ring. He knew that Stella was not a materialistic woman. He bought her a ring that both of them would remember forever.


    The guests were a small amount so Lena met everyone. However...


    "Who''s Hugh?" Lena asked Kris.


    "Hugh Who?"


    "..." Lena was really expecting to finally meet him today. "Your ex-wife."


    "Ex-Who?"


    "Kris..."


    "I told you... you''ll never meet him." Kris answered her.


    "I don''t understand. Is he so ugly that he can''t even attend his buddy''s wedding?" Lena felt sad for Hugh. She felt like the man was always so secretive and hidden from the public that he missed a lot of gatherings.


    "Sometimes... you have to sacrifice a lot to protect the people you love."


    "That makes me want to meet him even more."


    "Maybe someday... when the world isn''t so cruel." Kris replied softly.


    That right... Ming Zhao was always excluded from public events with the group. It was something that had been done in their group of friends since the beginning.


    The tension between the two families is not just between blood, but the rooted deep inside the power struggle of both families.


    If it was a love story... Kris and Ming would be Romeo and Juliet.


    Lena could feel a deep sadness and anger from Kris..


    "I am tired..." She wrapped her arms around his hand.


    "We can leave." Kris smiled at Lena.


    The bride and groom already left because they were leaving for their honeymoon the next morning.  There were only a few people chatting and congratulating the parents.


    Lena told Gary not to stay too late. Gary still wanted to stay around for a bit. He was quite a woman magnet at the wedding, stealing the attention away from Lay. Lena still forced James to stay with Gary since there was not a personal guard with Gary.


    And since she was with Kris, she would always be safe.


    Kris drove them both back to the hotel. As they got into the elevator, Kris could really tell that Lena was exhausted.


    Kris smiled. She didn''t even do much except talk and stand pretty. Sometimes she can kill a whole army and still be so hyper... yet other days, a small walk can make her extremely exhausted.


    "You''re hiding something from me." Kris spoke as he pressed the button to their floor.


    "Huh?" Lena blinked. "I am not."


    "You''re not very good at lying to me."


    "Everyone has secrets," Lena replied.


    "I know." Kris held up his hand and caressed Lena''s face, softly touching her the side of her face. "But I don''t want you to be so stressed out... you look so tired."


    "Am I?" Lena did a half yawn. "Maybe."


    "It''s true that I want to know every little thing about you. It hurts me when I don''t know something about you." Kris admitted. "But... everyone does have their own secrets. Just..." He paused. "Just don''t keep something from me if it''s hurting you. You''re not alone."


    He pulled Lena in and kissed her soft cold lips.


    At that moment, the elevator door opened. Kris walked out first. Lena looked at the handsome man''s back as she was still standing so still in the elevator.


    Kris stopped and looked back at Lena once he felt that Lena was not walking with him.


    "Was the kiss so good that you''re still in shock?" He chuckled.


    He looked at Lena who was still just... standing in the elevator in a daze looking straight at him. There was not an emotion in her look, but he felt like she was going jump at him and eat him in the next second.


    "Kris."


    "Hmm?"


    "Let''s ---"


    As Lena was about to say something, the elevator door closed. She panicked and quickly put her hand to stop the door from closing. She quickly walked out and stumbled towards Kris.


    "Are you that tired that you can''t walk? Should I carry you?" Kris smiled.


    Lena stood up straight and looked at Kris,  "Let''s get married."

 Chapter 321 - My lovely wife.

    Kris was caught off guard. He didn''t say anything and just looked at Lena... trying to see if she was serious or not.


    "I--"


    "Let''s go to our room." Lena cut him off and tried to ran toward their room but Kris grabbed her hand.


    "Wait, I---"


    "Seriously Kris." Lena cut him off again. She looked him up and down. "Let''s get changed and then we''ll talk. I don''t think I can take you seriously in that suit."


    "Fine."


    The moment they got to their room. Lena ran to her side of the room and locked herself in the bathroom.


    Kris just looked at the silly girl and smiled. Why is she the one so shy... she said it herself. He sighed and hoped to take a shower and get changed.


    When he got out, Lena was still in the bathroom. Kris sat silently on the bed, staring at the bathroom door.


    After a few minutes, Lena came out with only a towel wrapped around her. She stared at Kris, who stayed motionless on the bed. Lena walked over to the closet, grabbed a change of clothes and went back to the bathroom, closing the door shut.


    Kris laughed in his heart and continued to stare at the door.


    The door opened again and Lena stood at the door entrance, just staring back at Kris. His hair was dry. He was shirtless with only his pajama pants on.


    Lena could clearly see his ab lines as he sat on the bed.


    "You can''t just say "Let''s get married." And spend 30 minutes taking a shower and another 10 minutes doing whatever you were doing." Kris started the conversation.


    "I was second-guessing myself."


    "About..." Kris paused. "Us?" He was caught off guard again. Did he do something wrong? Was there something wrong? He knew that Lena and he had their small fall our when Gary was injured but he thought that they were past that.


    "No. About which one I should tell you about first."


    Lena slowly walked over to Kris. She stood in front of him, placing both hands on his shoulder.


    She slowly moved her hands to his neck... and up to hold his face so that their eyes were directly looking at each other.


    "I..." Lena closed her eyes, took a deep breath, "have no second guess about you. About us. So f*ck a romantic proposal, prince charming on a white horse and magical carriage... Let''s just get married, Kris."


    Kris put his hand on her small waist and pulled her closer to him.


    "No one-knee on the floor? No rings and flowers? No fireworks and kiss at the top of the Ferris-wheel?" Kris asked.


    "No." Lena sternly replied. "No...."


    She bent down low and kiss him. Kris tightened his grip on her waist and kissed her back. He could feel her wet hair touching his bare skin. She smelled so fresh... and ripe.


    "I am scared...." Lena touched his face. "After all that we''ve been through. After.... after that dream, Gary''s injury, bombs, guns.... we solve one thing but another one will be thrown at us."


    "Your a high profiled man. And I am a trouble maker..." Lena let out a soft chuckle. "If we keep waiting for a good time, we won''t get married until your 50. And by then... I want to have a long life with you. Give you lots and lots of kids and travel the world with you. Slay scary dragons and kill annoying pests. So yeah... I dreamed of a handsome man going down on one knee, pulling out a ring, flowers, and fireworks out of thin air.... but you''re not a dream, Kris... you''re real. And I--" Lena paused.


    "I want to be your wife, your only Mrs. Li." Lena softly spoke. "I want to be in your lawfully wedded wife with legal rights. If something bad happens, I want to be able to be with you. I want to be your emergency contact, be in your will, be... just be yours. Entirely yours."


    "If..." Lena paused as her eyes got teary.


    "Why are you crying... Shh..." Kris carefully pulled her to sit on his lap and wiped her tear.


    "If... something bad happens to you or me... I..." Lena stopped again as she got more emotional.


    "Nothing bad is going to happen." Kris hugged her.


    "Stop it. Let me finish." Lena sniffed and wiped her own tears. "If... If something bad happens to you or me, I would regret that I made you waited. I would regret that I.. didn''t get to marry you."


    Lena chuckled as she finally stopped getting so emotional. "I know that marriage is not a big deal to you, but--"


    This time Kris stopped her. He put a finger on her lips. "Who said it''s not a big deal? Sure, it was a stupid concept before... but everything is a big deal now since I have met you. With you... I can see myself being a boyfriend, a husband... a father, a grandfather... a dog."


    Kris smiled and removed his finger on her lips. He gave her another passionate kiss before continuing.


    "Let''s get married, Lena."


    Lena did not reply at first. She just stared into the handsome man in front of her. Yes.. she was sure. This is what she wanted... this is the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with.


    "Are... are you sure?" Lena asked. "I mean, well I am ready, but I am not going to force you."


    "Are you kidding me?" Kris laughed. "I am absolutely sure."


    Lena smiled... She changed her sitting position so she was comfortable straddled on Kris. Her hands were around his neck.


    "Kris Li... Will you marry me?"


    Kris scoffed. "Yes. Yes, I will marry you, Lena Shen."


    Kris brought her in close and they kissed again. A very long and sweet kiss until their breaths were out and their hearts were mingled in sync.


    "When we get back home, I will go talk to your parents," Kris replied. "We can register our marriage first and have a ceremony later."


    "Mhm." Lena nodded. She kissed his lips and cheeks. "You don''t think we are rushing it.. right?"


    "What do you mean...? I think our family wanted us wedded on the first day." Kris laughed. "If I knew that Collin''s wedding would make you want to marry me... I would have pushed the wedding earlier."


    "I... I still want a big wedding though." Lena assured. "I still want everyone to know that you are mine. And there is not a single space for a third person."


    "..." Kris smiled. He held to Lena''s body and turned them 180, so Lena''s back was on the bed and him on top of her, between her legs. "Yes, wifey." He replied and flung Lena''s pajama top away.


    "What are you doing..?!" Lena looked at the hungry beast on top of her.


    Kris''s body hovered over hers, his broad and strong seductive body openly exposed to her. He started to take off his pants.


    "If I remember correctly, my future wife said that she wanted a lot of pre-marital s*x." He smirked. "We don''t have a lot of time for that if we are going to get married... we should do that every day."


    "Ev...everyday...?"


    "Is that not enough...? How about every morning and night?"


    Kris took off his pants and removed Lena''s with one swing. He kissed her stomach and then started licking up her body.


    "My lovely wife..." He whispered to her ears and softly bit it.


    "We... I... I still.. Ah" Lena spoke as Kris continued to tease her. "I still have something else to talk about."


    "We can talk about it now.." Kris multitasked, listening to Lena and making her feel good.


    "..." Lena looked at the devilishly good looking man... She''s not going to tell him about it now. If she did... she might be punished and not it make it out alive tomorrow for their flight back home.


    Lena spread her legs, giving him more room. She wrapped her hands around his neck.


    "In the morning." She replied.


    Kris stopped kissing her chest and looked at her approving smile. He put a hand to her chin and lifted it up.


    "What do you want... anything for the lady."


    "The entire menu."

 Chapter 322 - My handsome husband (R-18)

    "Then... we''ll start with some appetizers," Kris said.


    He grabbed Lena''s leg and lifted the end of her feet up.  He kissed her feet and then licked the big toe.


    "Aha... Stop that. It tickles." Lena reacted.


    Kris did not stop though. He softly bit her toe and then pecked her leg with kissed up to her abdomen.


    He pinched the small stomach fat that Lena had. "You need to eat more."


    "You''re feeding me." Lena replied.


    "I''ll make sure you''re full then."


    Kris continued to kiss her down until his mouth arrived at her opening at the bottom. He licked her cl*toris as her leg squirm from the touch.


    She put her hand on his hair and gave it tugged each time his soft lips touched her sensitive skin. He continued to bring pleasure to Lena as she gasped.


    After a few seconds, Kris stopped and looked at Lena. He took the rest of his clothes off, placing his throbbing rod on top of her opening.


    Lena softly grabbed it and rub it up and down her entrance.


    "Ah....." Kris took a deep breath.


    "Do... you have one?" Lena asked him.


    "A condom?" Kris looked at her. "No... I never replaced the back up one I had last time."


    "..." Lena bit her lip seductively. She only let it go last time because she was safe and just got off the pills... but it''s been a while now and it can be dangerous.


    She was ready to get married... but having a child is different. Especially when their most dangerous enemies are still lingering around and about. She can protect herself if someone used her to get to Kris, but if she''s pregnant, people can use that against her and Kris.


    "Do you want to stop?" Kris questioned her after her long silence and contemplating look.


    Lena shook her head. She sat up as she pressed her hands on Kris''s chest. Kris fell gently back as Lena now hover above him.


    "No." Lena replied as she grabbed his hard rod and guide it to opening. She didn''t let it enter her yet, holding her weight above him. "You have to come outside."


    Lena blushed as she said that to him.


    "Ok." Kris replied and Lena immediately allowed his hot rod up her insides.


    Her hands were on his chest as she slowly swallowed him entirely. When it reached the tip of her inside, Lena gasped.


    "Ah..." Lena bit her bottom lip. "Gosh.. you look so hot."


    Kris put his hands on her thighs as she began to move.


    Lena swung her but in a circular motion before moving up and coming back down. Lena continued and sped up her pace. She put a hand on Kris''s face.


    "Kiss me..." Lena kissed his cheeks.


    Kris instant sat up, thrusting deeply inside her. He grabbed the back of her head and kissed her.


    "Mhnnn.." Lena did not expect him to be so rough.


    Lena stopped after the kiss ended and their tongues just tangled around each other. Lena could feel him getting larger and warmer inside of her. She knew that Kris was holding back the beast inside of him.


    She gave him a peck on the lips and then got off him. She turned around and got on all fours on the bed. She looked back a Kris who was looking at her like a hungry animal.


    "Go easy on me..." Lena teased him.


    Kris instantly held her buttocks and thrust inside her. "You make me go crazy.. ah Lena.."


    "Ah.. Kris." Lena''s body jerked forward each time he thrust inside her. Even the bed moved with each penetration. "I said... ah.. easyyy.."


    Kris smirked and continued his pace. How can Lena say go easy but still tightly swallow him, as if she wanted more of him?


    "Kris..." Lena cried his name but at the same time, it felt very great. She could feel that today was different. He was soft and rough all over her.


    Her hands went weak and she rested her face on the bed. Her butt was still raised as he jammed inside her. In and out.


    The bed creaked and thud as Kris''s hard thrust pushed the bed frame toward the wall.


    "Lenaa....." He called her name sweetly as he knew he was near his climax too. Her walls are squeezing him tightly.


    He put thrust in quickly a few more times inside of her and then pulled out, coming outside of her.


    Lena moaned loudly from the electrifying pleasure that was sent throughout her body and she collapsed on the bed.


    Kris grabbed something and wiped off the mess he made on Lena''s back. He bent down and kissed Lena on the side.


    He gently held her until she was well-rested and ready for another round.


    After a few more minutes, Lena turned her body so she was facing Kris. He spread her legs opened and thrust inside her in one motion.


    Although she just came and was still somewhat sensitive, it felt so good.


    "I was thinking..." Kris pulled out and softly entered her again. "That we can finish my bucket list."


    "Your.. ahh." Lena''s hands held the bed sheets. "bucket list?"


    "We did it in the elevator and in the office already... we must make it more interesting."


    "Interesting... ah." She moaned each time he penetrated her. Her body openly accepting him inside of her.


    Kris looked and Lena and then looked at the window.


    Lena followed the movements of his eyes and looked out the window.


    "You''ve got to be --- ah!"


    "No I am not." Kris lifted Lena''s small body up, still deeply embedded inside her. He got off the bed and walked over to the glass balcony doors.


    "We can''t." Lena refused.


    "We can''t? But you feel it too... I can sense it, Lena." He pushed her back to the doors and thrust inside her again. "You''re so turned on.... aren''t you?"


    "Ah.. but.." Lena held him tightly. She could feel her warm body on the cold glass. It felt so good. And yes, she liked this.


    ''Well... if he cannot come inside her... a bit of fun should be alright.''


    "Just one time," Lena mumbled between the movements between them.


    Kris smiled and his little buddy turned was even more turned on when Lena said yes. He opened the balcony door as a cold breeze past them.


    Kris put Lena down as he changed their position. He turned Lena around so she also got a good sight of the city lights at night. He lifted Lena''s leg up, spread them and entered her from behind.


    "Ah... Kris." Lena moaned. She was astonished by how strong he was. He was carrying her weight and continuing to slam inside her at an insane speed.


    Gosh.. this felt so good.


    "You like this..?" Kris bit her ear.


    "Mhm..."


    Kris let Lena down again. One of her legs stood on the ground as he lifted one of her legs up. He entered her again, sideways. He also kissed Lena once her moans were getting too loud.


    Their naked body was exposed to the night breeze. This was the kind of sexual excitement that they both enjoyed. They both didn''t care if someone saw them.. at that moment, it was just the two of them... and the emptiness of the world below them.


    Once again, Kris came outside of her. Lena''s excited body collapsed onto Kris as he gently carried her back to the bed.


    Kris knew that it usually takes Lena a few rounds before she released the beast inside of her. After that, the next few rounds are just a battle between the two of them. When Kris said, a lot.... he really meant it. It was not until the sun rising that Lena finally dropped her exhausted but the completely pleased body on the bed and went to sleep.


    When Lena woke up, Kris was already gone. Lena looked at the time and noticed that it was way past noon. She forced her body to crawl out of bed.


    "You''re awake?" Kris spoke as he just came out of the shower. "I already packed your stuff. Take a shower and we''ll catch the plane."


    "..." Lena was tired but she nodded. How can he still have so much energy?

 Chapter 323 - His Bait.

    When they reached Kris''s private jet, Lena was astonished how different hers and his were. Of course, hers was just a gift from Madam Li... but still, there was an enormous difference between the two.


    There were four main seats in the area.


    Lena sat down on the seat across from Kris.


    There was a small table between Kris and her because Kris usually continued to do his work on the plain. As the plane set off, Kris gave Lena a sweet smile and then looked at some paperwork that he had to catch up on.


    After 10 minutes, Kris put down his papers and looked at Lena who was quietly reading a book on her phone.


    "There was something you wanted to tell me yesterday?" Kris pointed out.


    "Oh.." Lena looked at him. "..."


    "What is it?" Kris was more curious now. He originally thought that it was just the topic of marriage but he knew there was something else on Lena''s mind.


    Lena sighed. "There''s not really a good time for things, but.."


    Lena reached into her bag and grabbed out a small bag. She placed it on the table and pushed it toward Kris.


    "What is this?" Kris asked.


    "I don''t know." Lena replied.


    Kris took the bag and opened it. It was a flash drive. He grabbed his laptop and connected it to his laptop.


    At the moment, Lena silently held her breath. She could already feel the change of atmosphere.


    "Where did you get this?" Kris asked without changing his tone of voice. His eyes were still glued to the screen.


    Lena did not reply.


    Kris took a deep breath and closed the laptop. He removed the flash drive out and tossed it back into the middle of the table.


    "I don''t like you meeting strangers without me." Kris reminded Lena.


    "It was a life and death situation," Lena replied.


    "If someone random called you and said I was kidnapped, would you instantly go there?"


    "This and that is not the same. Plus, James was with me."


    "James isn''t me though."


    "Are you angry with me?" Lena asked. She could feel his negative emotions exploding out of his brain.


    "No. I am not angry with you. I am angry with him."


    "Ace?"


    When Lena said his name, she could feel that the name also triggered something in Kris. She was not quite sure if it was a good trigger or a bad one.


    "You never told me that he was so...."


    "Stupid?" Kris finished for Lena.


    Lena was going to say handsome but she didn''t correct Kris. "He reminded me a lot of you. Kinda make me feel sad for him... knowing a man like him fell for someone as horrible has Becca."


    "...." Kris sat back on his chair. "Are you trying to guilt-trip me? I already did him a favor when I didn''t kill that cockroach. And what did he do? He turned around my back, yet again, and met up with you when he knew I was out of the city. Should have just killed her on the spot." Kris grumbled.


    He sighed again. "Sometimes you have to let the small fishes go free so you can catch the big."


    "Scarface." Lena mumbled the name.


    "Hah.. Is that what you called him?" Kris chuckled. "I haven''t let him out of my sight since..."


    At the moment, Kris paused and recalled the memory of when he carried Lena out of that awful place. She knocked on death''s doors a few times... If... if at that moment, he didn''t man up and carried her immediately out to get medical attention, would she still be here now?


    A soft smiled emerged, and Kris spoke to himself, "Good job." It was one of the few things that he had done right.


    "I am not letting you near him, Lena."


    "But, I am the perfect---"


    "No." Kris cut her off before she could say bait. "I already allowed you to get involved when it was with the Huangs... and how did that turn out?"


    Kris held out his palm, indicating Lena to give him her hand. She looked at him and gently placed her hand on his, to which he softly held it rightly.


    "You''re going to be my wife." Kris smiled brightly at her. "I know you have your own personal agenda with the man... but what kind of husband would I be to let you roam around so dangerously? As your boyfriend... I can let a few things slide... but not when you will be the queen of my empire."


    Lena blushed slightly when he called her wife. It does really have a nice tone to it. To be someone''s wife... well, soon anyway.


    "There''s still so much we have to do. We have to talk to our parents, still have to get a new home. Pack and move...." Kris paused and looked at Lena. He looked at her cute face and then her stomach.


    "What?" Lena could feel his eyes on her.


    "I just thought of something."


    "What?"


    "If I got you pregnant... maybe you would stay home more often and stop thinking about such dangerous things."


    "Kris!" Lena yanked her hand back. She glared at him. He slyly smiled at her. "If I got pregnant, YOU should stay home more often and stop thinking about dangerous things."


    He laughed happily at her reply. He opened his laptop back up again and pushed it toward Lena.


    "I have been." Kris showed Lena what he was talking about. It was not something he highly discussed with Lena because it was his personal mess. "I cut most of the Li family ties underground and illegal business. Of course, there are still some more complicated matters that will take more than just a few months since we started dating to complete it."


    Lena knew that Kris had cut ties off with a lot of things since he became the head of the Li family. But she never knew that he had done so much in just the few months they were together. As if reading her mind, Kris continued.


    "I don''t want my kids to grow up like me... or Ace... or Hugh." Kris looked at the ring on his finger and smiled. "I never thought that I could fall in love nor even consider a family... but here I am. Don''t know crap about being a parent... but one thing for sure, it''s not being like my own father or grandpa. I can''t start clean... but my children, I mean ours... don''t have to live with my mess."


    Lena softly looked at the man who was looking at his ring... with passion and life in his eyes. Yes.. this was the man, the right man, and only man that she will spend the rest of her life with.


    "So... what''s your plan?" Lena asked.


    "What makes you think I have a plan?"


    "When did you not ever?"


    "Like I said before..." Kris looked at Lena''s eyes. "One of the reasons why Becca is alive is because of Ace... but also because there is a bigger fish to fry."


    "Scarface. But, if you''re not going to use me as bait... and Becca''s probably not going to alive very soon... what are you doing to draw him out?"


    "I only said no to you being bait... doesn''t mean I don''t have someone in mind to lure him out."


    "Hmmm?" Lena was confused yet again. Who else besides Lena is so important to Kris that he would risk his life to save....? She paused as another name popped in her mind. Of course... how could forget. She also used this person against Kris. "No... Haha... you''re not really thinking about using you---"


    "You''re right, my mother."

 Chapter 324 - Party in the cockpit.

    "Haha..." Lena laughed softly but then released that Kris was being serious. "..."


    "Everyone has secrets. I had my own suspicions of hers... but only now I more certain about it." Kris spoke.


    Lena listened but she still had no clue what he was talking about.


    "When you.... confronted Mr. Chen regarding that curveball you threw at him, it only added more to my suspicions. Sometimes you love someone so much... that it is hard for you to accept the truths. Especially the ugly ones." He continued. "She''s still my mother and I will always love her dearly."


    "I... I am still confused." Lena pointed out. "How does Madam Yang have anything to luring out the enemies?"


    "I said I wanted to clean my mess so my children don''t have to deal with it... she''s basically doing the same thing."


    Lena tilted her head... still confused.


    "Hehe..." Kris laughed. "Don''t worry about it too much. I have yet to have a long conversation with my mother, and then I will tell you the whole story."


    "You should also meet with Ace."


    Kris paused and looked at Lena. "I am not the one avoiding him, he''s avoiding me. I am the one getting stood up."


    "Ahh..." Lena stretched her arms and yawned. "Ok." She was still somewhat tired from all the extra workout. "I trust you."


    Lena rested her head on the window and looked at Kris. "You''re going to be a fine father." Lena smiled at him... they were really going to get married.


    "Fine...? Father...?" Kris stared back at drowsy Lena and then chuckled. He casually stood up and walked over to her seat. "How can that be....? You''re skipping a step there. One must have a kid to be a father."


    Kris leaned forward to Lena and put his hands on the sides of the seat


    "Isn''t that right.... honey?"


    Lena suddenly opened her tired eyes a bit more from his sudden movements. She placed her hands on his chest and pushed him back away but he wouldn''t budge.


    "What... what are you doing?"


    "You made my brain full of stress. I need to relieve stress."


    "You can go relieve stress yourself!"


    "But... I promised my wife every morning and every night. It''s already way past morning." Kris looked at Lena innocently. "And baby... I am a man who keeps their promises... to you anyways."


    He grabbed her hands on his chest and pushed them aside as he lowered her seat back. Before Lena could reject him, he already indulged his sweet love all over her.


    -----


    The cockpit door hastily opened and closed. Keso, who was sitting in the co-pilot seat looked at the male attendant who just entered the area.


    "What''s wrong with you?" Keso asked him. The man''s face was flushed and he was hugging tightly to his silver tray.


    "Are you sick? We''ll be landing soon." The pilot spoke.


    "Uh... No.. no, I am not sick." The attendant shook his head. "I.. uh... the young master said.. um... take a detour."


    "Take a detour?" The pilot finally glanced at the attendant. Kris''s personal flight team is mostly the same people so they all had been around each other for a long time.


    "Why... do we not have enough gas?"


    "Well, no. We have lots of gas. Just that... taking a detour..." The pilot shook his head. "It''s fine, I''ll just notify flight tower that we''ll just be doing some test flights."


    Kris''s private jet is a smaller aircraft so if there were just hanging in the air, it can be looked at as suspicious air activity.


    "Do you have some music in here?" The flight attendant asked after the pilot made the call.


    "Music... Timothy, this is the pilot''s cockpit. Why don''t you get out of here, aye?" The pilot replied.


    Timothy stood still and just looked at Keso. Keso was confused too... as to why he was hiding in here with them. Did he get in trouble with Kris?


    Keso took off his headset and that was when he made a weird face. He looked at Timothy and then he quickly pressed a button and a soft tune started playing.


    "Woah woah woah... I don''t like music when I am flying." The pilot turned the music off.


    Keso pushed the button again and patted the pilot on the shoulder. "It''s fine, dude. You''re a pro. Don''t take off your headset."


    Keso put his headset back on and handed an extra set to Timothy. He placed down his silver tray and took the headset. He smiled thankfully at Keso.


    The pilot grunted and continued to fly. Bunch of weirdos.


    They took a detour and landed 45 minutes later. Throughout the whole time, Timothy stayed with them in the cockpit.


    When Kris exited the plane, the carried Lena who was gently asleep in his arms. Keso was already out and he opened the car door for Kris as he gently placed Lena inside the car.


    "Take her home. And stay with her until I come back." Kris spoke.


    "Where are you going?"


    "Personally business," Kris replied and turned back to Lena.


    He gently bent down and gave her a soft kiss on her forehead. "I am sorry." He gently whispered to her and then closed the door.


    "What should I tell her when she wakes up?"


    "She won''t." Kris started walking to a different car. He got inside it and then looked at the window. He can''t see Lena''s face since the other car had very tinted mirrors.


    He knew that when Lena was very tired, she would sleep soundlessly and for a very long time. Thus, instead of putting something to help her sleep, he instead... just tired her out. But he was somewhat scared too when she sleeps too long so he had Keso stayed with her.


    Kris turned off his phone and started the car. He''ll be back before she wakes up anyways. He sped off.


    Keso looked at the car that sped off at the airplane. He knew where Kris was going. Lay was not here and obviously, Cole was also not here. He was in charge of babysitting Lena...so....


    He took out his phone and sent a small text Hugh. He sighed and then turned around.


    "Ah!" Keso yelped like a frightened little girl when he was that car window was opened and Lena was wide awake.


    "Miss. Shen." Keso mumbled. Didn''t Kris say that she would not wake up....? "Uh... Kris.. he..."


    "Just drive," Lena spoke as she scrolled up the window.

 Chapter 325 - One or Ten.

    Keso gulped and then ran to the driver''s seat. Throughout the drive, Lena had her eyes closed and he did not dare make a sound. He did not know if she was asleep or not.


    When they arrived at the apartment, Lena opened her eyes and walked out of the car. She went inside the elevator first as Keso grabbed the suitcases. Lena waited in the elevator for him.


    The silence was killing him but he made no noises.


    They rode up all the way to the penthouse. Lena kicked off her shoes and walked to Kris''s room.


    "Don''t tell him I was awake." Lena finally spoke before she slammed the door shut.


    Keso put the suitcases in the other room. He sat down in the living room and looked at some documents that Kris had given him several days ago.


    -------------


    Days past since they returned and Lena did not mention at all where Kris was. What she did notice was that his mood was a bit more energetic. She did not know if it was because they were finally telling the elders about their decision to get married, or it was something else.


    She still went to work as usual. SHYNE had been preparing for the permanent position of their CEO, but with just the recent plagiarism, it was held back for a few more weeks. It would be drama if Lena was to step down just after that.


    Regardless, her position was always only temporary for experience and helping her mother. If she wanted to get married and have lots of kids... she preferred a more convenient job. The good thing about marrying a wealthy man is that you don''t have to work.


    Lena smiled as the thought of marriage brought a sweet sensation to her heart.


    Kris and Lena were meeting with the elders for dinner tonight. James was dropping Lena off at the Li Company so she can go with Kris after his meeting.


    Lena held a bag of clothes to change into as she arrived at Kris'' office. She nodded at the only worker there as everyone else was at the meeting.


    She quickly went inside the office and locked the door. Kris already wears a suit to work... so he didn''t need extra time to make himself look good. However, Lena did not dress very formal to work today so she brought a change of clothes.


    She changed into her dress and did some final touches to her make-up. Lena walked over to his desk and sat on the tabletop as she stared at his desk. She noticed that Kris had added a few more pictures... of her.


    Lena wondered how he even got these? She picked up a picture frame and looked at it. If she recalled correctly... this was taken before they were even dating.


    At that moment, Kris and Collin walked in.


    Lena put down the picture and glanced up at them. She smiled.


    She walked up to Kris and gave him a small kiss. Then she turned to Collin. "How was the honeymoon?"


    "Great." Colline replied.


    "Are we going to expect little Collins in 9 months?" Lena asked.


    Collin''s eye widened and he blushed.


    "I mean... Stella canceled our appointment this week. You must have really worked her hard."


    "Ah.. that''s not true." Collin blurted out. How was he supposed to tell anyone what really happened? In their amazing honeymoon, his wife was a bit too excited that she ended up with a broken ankle.


    "I was just teasing you." Lena smiled at him, then gave her attention to the man patiently waiting for her to finish bullying Collin.


    "Then.. I''ll leave you two then." Collin excused himself.


    Once Collin left and closed the door, Kris picked Lena up from her waist. She carried her over to the sofa. He gave her a quick kiss as he sat her down on his lap.


    "Are we going to see little Lena''s in about 9 months too?" Kris continued to give her small pecks of kisses.


    "Kris, stop it. I just fixed my makeup."


    "That''s not an answer." Kris did not stop.


    "Why little Lena''s? I want a small chubby Kris."


    "A chubby boy..?" Kris stopped and looked at Lena.


    He recalled that he was not a chubby child. Most of childhood, he only remembered himself as being sickly.


    He also remembered about that stupid curse on his family... if Lena had a boy... wouldn''t that just confirmed that he is also stuck in this curse. Well, considering the things that he had done... being cursed to have only one heir is very lenient. But... Lena deserves a big family.


    "Don''t think about that." Lena interrupted him as she squeezed his cheeks like a baby. "Whether a boy or girl, one or ten, no matter, it will be ours. The child will grow up with lots and lots of love. And my sweet man will have to work extra hard to feed his chubby child and foodie wife."


    She got up and fixed her dress. "You hurry up and get ready too."


    "Mhm." Kris smiled and got up.


    Kris quickly put away his documents that he would take care of tomorrow. Lena fixed his tie and they head off down. They did not want to be late for the dinner.


    When Kris and Lena arrived at the diner that Kris had reserved, Madam Li was already there.


    What no one had expected was that a few moments later, Lena''s parents would arrive... but with uninvited guests. They can hear Shen Milli''s happy laughter as she opened the door and invited the two guests inside.


    Lena felt Kris immediately tensed up. She felt a cold killing chill from both mother and son, as it filled the room. She grabbed his hands and squeezed it softly. Madam Li was also caught by surprise. She did not expect those two to be here also.


    "Mom... dad." Lena smiled. Then she looked at their guests... "Hello, Elder Li... Old Madam Li."

 Chapter 326 - No wedding.

    "We saw them downstairs. Seems like they didn''t remember which room the dinner was. Luckily, they saw us." Shen Mao spoke.


    Lena awkwardly smiles and then looked at Kris who has not said a single word. Well... if they both were actually invited, the workers would have to lead them to the correct room. Of course, ;this old couple was obviously not invited and were just staking out the place, targetting Lena''s parents so they can join them for dinner.


    "Hello, Grandfather... grandmother." Kris finally greeted them. He did not want to look bad in front of his future in-laws.


    "Ah, Kris... hope you don''t mind us old people arriving late." Elder Li smiled happily.


    Of course, Kris can''t mind... because they also arrived with Lena''s parents. So the old man saying they were late... he was also saying that the Shens were late too.


    Lena could see the lightning ;zipping through both of their eyes at each other.


    "Why don''t we all sit down?" Lena interrupted their silent war.


    Elder Li and Shen Mao sat at the ends of the table. Lena sat on one side with Kris, while the mothers sat on the opposite side.


    Just as everyone sat down, Old Madam Li was blurted out from excitement. "So when are you both getting married?" She smiled and her eyes twinkled.


    "Ma...Married?" Lena glanced at Kris, giving him the look that she wants to kick these two old people out.


    "Aiya! Don''t be shy... it can only be good news if both of you invite both families to dinner." The old lady chuckled. ;


    "You''re both getting married?" Shen Milli asked.


    "Married?! Already...? You can wait for one more year." Shen Mao replied.


    "Next year? Husband... are you healthy that you want to wait until next year?" Shen Milli yelled at him. ;


    "I have no objection!" Elder Li smiled and nodded his head. "The 3rd of next month is a good day!"


    "3rd? So quick? Don''t worry, you have me, and both of your mothers to help you prepare for the wedding." Old Madam Li spoke. She mentioned two mothers because if Lena was joining the Li family, Madam Li would be her mother too.


    "You want a big wedding still?" Shen Milli asked her daughter. She knew that when Lena was young and when she was engaged with Andy... she had always wanted a big wedding. She wanted to be the most beautiful bride with the grandest wedding.


    "Of course!" The old lady replied before Lena could even mumble a response. "Don''t you worry... marrying into our family, of course, she will have a big wedding. I only have on grandchild... his wedding will be the most memorable wedding of the year."


    "I--uh..." Lena tried to say something but was yet cut off by the old lady again.


    "Don''t you worry, child. You just leave everything to us... and you keep healthy. You need a little more meat and you will look good in a wedding dress. Too skinny is not healthy for the body. You can move into the Li mansion or even better, the main mansion if you want!"


    Lena doesn''t know what exactly about this old couple that rubs her wrong... but she is getting angry and impatient about these two.


    This time, it was Kris who held Lena''s hand and gave it a soft squeeze.


    "We''re not having a wedding." Kris sternly spoke.


    "I can''t wait to invite the old--- wait... no wedding?" Old Madam Li finally stopped talking.


    "We both decided on not having a wedding... and even if we do have one, you''re both not invited."


    "....." Both of the elders did not respond.


    "I think both of you should leave. I don''t need your opinions or approval to marry whomever I want. You both should know more clearly by now what I mean."


    Old Madam swallowed as she felt the cold chills on danger. She was about to say something but Elder Li stopped her.


    "We''ll leave first then..." He spoke. "I apologize for not being able to join you for dinner, CEO Shen. Maybe... on better circumstances, will we have dinner ;as a family ;next time."


    The old man grabbed his old lady and they both silently left the room.


    As they leave, Shen Mao and Shen Milli did not utter one word about what happened.


    "Dad..." Lena looked at her father.


    "I apologize for that, Father." Kris looked at Shen Mao and lowered his head.


    Shen Mao was caught off guard. He did not know if it was because the young man just kicked out his grandparents... or if it was because he called him "Father" in the most sincere tone.


    "I know it must had looked unfilial of me to have asked them to leave... but for me... the only family that I have is my mother." Kris softly spoke as he held Lena''s hand. "And of course, now you both.. and Lena.. will be my family. I just wish that you both understand where I am coming from regarding my relationship with them."


    Shen Mao cleared his throat. "Of course... you''re going to be my son-in-law... I will always understand. And I know that whatever you do... is always for the best for Lena."


    Shen Mao grabbed Lena''s other hand. "Aiya.... ;my little Lili is finally getting married for real this time... ahahahaha. You can''t really wait till next year though right..?"


    "Mao!" Shen Milli shouted at her husband.


    "I was just confirming... it felt like just yesterday she learned how to walk!"


    Both Madam Li and Shen Milli laughed. ;


    "And the wedding?" Shen Milli asked.


    "We will have a wedding," Lena replied. "But for now... Kris and I just want to quietly married. There.... there are something that we both are busy with and having a grand wedding at the moment is not good. And waiting for after that is too long."


    "We''re planning to register our marriage in a few days... after discussing it both parents. As Lena said, we will have a grand wedding when the time is right."


    The parents look at each other as if reading each other''s thoughts. They wanted to get married soon... but have no wedding. Could it be....?


    "I am not pregnant..!" Lena blurted out. ;


    Madam Li and Shen Milli looked at Lena with a "we-didn''t-say-you-were" look.


    Lena gave then the "but-I-know-you-were-thinking-about-it" look.


    "But if we get married... then wouldn''t I be able to faster?" Lena added.


    Shen Mao coughed heavily. When did his daughter think so far ahead already?! In the past he was just teasing her... aiya... children do grow up too quickly.

 Chapter 327 - I wont be late

    Shen Mao looked at her lovely daughter again. In just a short amount of time, his bratty daughter had already become such a m.a.t.u.r.e woman. An a.d.u.l.t who is already thinking independently and making a future of her own.


    He knew that Lena had the talent to be a woman of power is she wanted to be one. But her true passion was always love, family, and her own dream.


    "Are... you sure? If this is really what you want, as your father, I cannot deny you of your wishes." He spoke.


    "Dad..."


    "My sweet child is all grown up now, huh. Just remember to visit us often, and be good."


    Shen Mao patted Lena''s head and smiled at her.


    The rest of the dinner was more relaxing and great bonding time between the two families. It was the very times where Lena saw Kris enjoying his time and not faking his happiness.


    Shen Mao continued to bully Kris as much as he can while the old man still got the favors of his future son-in-law.


    When it was time to leave, Lena bid her parents goodbye. Kris and Lena dropped of Madam Li at the mansion before they head back to their own place.


    As they arrived home and got ready to go to bed, Kris squeezed Lena tightly into his arms. He softly breathed as he embraced her.


    "I''ll be away for a few days." He finally spoke.


    "What?" Lena replied in a somewhat annoyed voice. They were just talking about getting married and Kris was going to be gone...?


    "I''ll be back to sign the papers."


    "...." He makes it sound like it just signing papers.


    As if he could read her mind, he let out a soft chuckle. "It''s not just papers.... it''s the day we become husband and wife. It is not just a fancy official word between two people..."


    "I demand a better reason for you not being here."


    Kris did not reply for a few seconds. "I am meeting with my mother tomorrow. I don''t know exactly how that will go, but it is something that needs to be done."


    "And that will take... three days?"


    "So so."


    Lena did not like his half-a*ssed answer. "I am not going to marry a man for him to be dead in less than a week. I don''t mind becoming a divorcee but definitely not a widow."


    "Are you saying you are considering a divorce?"


    "That''s always an option. I am a pretty young woman. Even with a kid or two... I will still have men kissing my feet."


    "Ouch." Kris laughed, but he knew his woman was just teasing him. "I won''t die that easily. I have to give you 6 kids and see every single of them get married. And besides... if I do just die after a week, you''ll become one of the ric.h.e.s.t women in the world. Hmm.... or maybe I should consider a prenup?"


    "I get to tease you but you can''t do that to me." Lena complained.


    "Ahaha... I would never dare, my dear wife... ahaha.. But on the real topic, I promise I won''t be late, ever, to any appointment we have." Kris kissed the back of Lena''s head. "And if I ever do... you can make me stand outside for the entire night and sing you love songs on a microphone."


    Lena chuckled. "Promise?"


    "Promise."


    Lena closed her eyes and slept peacefully in the warmth and security of his embrace.


    When she woke up, Kris was already gone as she expected. What she did not expect was a to-do list left by him.


    He left her a list of things to do before they tie the knot.


    Kris was in charge of the appointment of the signing, the doc.u.ments and official business of it. He also chose himself to decide on the rings and their honeymoon trip. They only tasked he left her was to decide on their marriage home.


    They were planning to do this together with a while back but things happened. And now they are rushing the marriage, Lena did not mind visiting the houses herself. It seemed like a better choice than having Kris along with her anyways.


    The man had no taste in such things. His mind would probably run wild of the perverted ways to attack his future wife in their new house... oh the places.


    Lena slightly shook her head. She really hoped he has a good and peaceful talk to his mother. She didn''t really dive down in asking what he was planning to do with the whole "bait" and "get rid of some pests."


    Lena was somewhat worried... but who wouldn''t be when their significant other is going to do something dangerous?


    Lena shook the thought of her mind and got ready for her day. She got in contact with the agent and she was able to squeeze Lena in last-minute today for a tour.


    It''s been a while since the situation with the bombing, but Lena kept in contact with Jackson. He had since gone back to the States and taken a long break from all the physical pain.


    Lena felt more relieved knowing that he was doing fine.


    Jackson: If you ever do come, please make sure to visit me.


    As Lena got off the elevator, she smiled, looking at the man standing outside, already opening the car door for her.


    "Hello, Noah."


    "Morning, Miss. Shen." He nodded.


    Noah had not been personally guarding Lena since Kye''s death. However, with how things were going to be, Noah was put back on personal guard duty.


    Kris offered his men, but Lena rather had someone she personally felt comfortable with. Additionally, she felt like Kris''s men were always just invading her privacy.


    James was driving while Noah took the other front seat.


    "How the family?" Lena asked.


    "Good as always. My wife and I are actually having another child."


    "Would you be leaving the job then?"


    "No. This job... it''s my life as much as my family. I am a lucky man to have such a wonderful wife. But even more so... am I not a much better man when I can protect my family and my client?"


    "Aiya... your such a great man." Lena laughed.


    "Besides... there are people who have a liking towards dangerous careers and men."


    Lena just smiled. Oh yes.... she does know. She would be considered one of those people.


    Noah and James stayed with Lena as she toured all three mansions.


    Kris and Lena already agreed that both of them will contribute 50/50 to the payment of their marital home. And the house would be under Lena''s name. Kris already has several assets, whereas Lena was still at the start of her life of making a name to her own and having her own assets.