Chapter 8

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“Shang—”

A shocked voice called from behind. Shushi Yun turned around to see Fang Jiahua quickly retracting her head into the car window, cautiously backing away from the spot.

Blinking in confusion, he turned to Shang Cheng and suddenly realized something. “She seems to know you.”

After saying this, noticing that Shang Cheng’s eyes showed no reaction, he added, “That’s my assistant. Our studio went out for dinner today. I had a bit to drink, so she drove me home.”

The words slipped out without much thought, but he immediately regretted them.

Why was he volunteering this information when Shang Cheng didn’t even ask? It sounded like a report.

Besides... Shang Cheng hadn’t answered his calls since returning.

That thought struck him, and his eyes widened. “Why didn’t you pick up my calls?”

“Why wouldn’t I?”

Both spoke simultaneously, their voices clashing before falling silent.

Shushi Yun frowned, suddenly realizing: “I turned my phone off when I got back.”

Shang Cheng remained calm. “I just got off the plane. Didn’t see your messages, so I came straight here.”

Understanding dawned a moment later, and Shushi Yun exhaled deeply but grew nervous again. “You could’ve just sent me a message. Sorry.”

“No problem. I wanted to find you anyway.” Shang Cheng said as he turned to the back seat, pulling out a paper bag and handing it to Shushi Yun. “For you.”

Startled, Shushi Yun took it and opened it to find a plain, long rectangular box inside.

“Look at it when you get home,” Shang Cheng said.

Shushi Yun’s heart skipped a beat as he immediately guessed what it was.

“A necklace?”

He didn’t open it but looked directly at Shang Cheng with bright eyes.

For a moment, Shang Cheng’s expression flickered subtly but quickly returned to normal. “Yeah, the last one was uncomfortable to wear.”

This caught Shushi Yun completely off guard. Just as he was about to thank him, his words changed: “I won’t open it. Tell me what it looks like.”

Shang Cheng parted his lips slightly but didn’t say a word.

Seeing him hesitate, Shushi Yun narrowed his eyes knowingly. “You don’t have to say it. You secretly watched my livestream that day, didn’t you?”

It wasn’t a question but a confident statement.

Shang Cheng clearly didn’t want to admit it but sighed helplessly after a moment of eye contact. “Yes, sorry.”

Satisfied with the answer, Shushi Yun couldn’t help but say, “I guessed it was you when you sent the gifts. It was obvious.”

A flicker of amusement passed through Shang Cheng’s eyes.

Before he could say anything more, Shushi Yun stepped forward, tugging at his collar. “I’m almost fully recovered now. Thanks for the medicine.”

His heart pounded as he made the gesture.

Shang Cheng’s gaze naturally passed over his neck before shifting away. “That’s good.”

The topic seemed to end there, leaving Shushi Yun a bit disappointed, suspecting he would soon be sent away again.

His mind raced, trying to find a suitable topic to chat a little longer. Tonight, he had been in a foul mood all day, a restless anxiety that had peaked after receiving Lan Xuan’s call. But just a few words with Shang Cheng seemed to soothe him—an unusual sense of comfort.

“Who were you talking to on the phone just now?”

Unexpectedly, Shang Cheng took the initiative to ask before Shushi Yun could think of a topic.

Shushi Yun felt a flicker of happiness but wore a few lines of sadness and frustration on his face. “My brother. You know my clothing brand, right?”

As a devoted fan, Shang Cheng knew more than that—he had even placed large bulk orders as gifts for members of his entertainment company early this year.

He didn’t say so, only nodding knowingly.

“Yes, YS.”

Shushi Yun briefly summarized the situation, with some exaggeration.

“That’s it. He called just now to vent his anger. If this gets back to my father, I’m sure I’ll get scolded again.”

Shang Cheng didn’t see through his exaggerated self-pity. His expression darkened as he listened.

“He spoke terribly. I only cursed him because I was pushed too far.” Shushi Yun took the opportunity to defend himself, sneaking glances at Shang Cheng’s expression.

He worried that Shang Cheng might dislike that side of him. After all, he knew that Shang Cheng’s knowledge of him mostly came from watching his livestreams, where he usually appeared gentle and sincere, never losing his temper or showing harshness.

If Shang Cheng liked that version of him, would he find the real Shushi Yun hard to accept?

“That’s what he deserves,” Shang Cheng said coldly, a hint of disdain in his tone.

Shushi Yun blinked, guessing something. “You know him?”

Shang Cheng nodded. “Met him once before. He attended Old Shen’s birthday banquet with you.”

Relieved, Shushi Yun said nothing more.

They remained silent for a few seconds, the atmosphere slightly awkward.

Shang Cheng glanced at his watch, then asked, as if recalling something, “The Lan family treat you badly?”

Shushi Yun didn’t hesitate. “You have a good relationship with the Shen family. You probably heard about my parents’ divorce. My father’s family situation is complicated, so I rarely interact with them. But I’m still a member of the Shu family and have value to them, so... I think you understand what I mean.”

“Lan Xuan is the child your stepmother brought in, unrelated by blood to Lan Suzhi,” Shang Cheng paused. “In theory, Lan Suzhi would care deeply about blood relations.”

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Shushi Yun raised an eyebrow, surprised that Shang Cheng noticed this so directly.

After some thought, he didn’t hide it. “My father married into the Shu family. Over the years, he must have harbored some resentment, maybe seeing me reminds him of that, so he’s indifferent toward me. Besides... he and my stepmother already have a child.”

Lan Suzhi and Tang Yitong married not long ago and have their own child, Lan Muxian, just starting middle school—an insufferable little tyrant.

In the previous life, Shushi Yun had little interaction with him, only noticing how Lan Muxian bullied other kids at family gatherings but suddenly acted obedient and innocent when facing him, asking for this and that.

Shushi Yun wasn’t stingy and usually gave in, hoping to guide him gently, thinking the boy didn’t understand how to get along with others. Lan Muxian would then put on a pitiful, wronged expression, making it hard for him to reprimand further.

The more he thought about it, the more ironic it seemed. Shushi Yun felt utterly dumbfounded for not noticing these obvious signs before and foolishly believing his life was happy.

He sighed deeply.

Concern flickered in Shang Cheng’s eyes as if he was pondering how to comfort him.

Sensing Shang Cheng might misunderstand his emotions, Shushi Yun didn’t explain but said, “It’s okay. My mother treats me well. My life is pretty good now.”

His answer was sincere, but to Shang Cheng, it seemed like a forced smile.

“He’s incompetent.”

Shushi Yun was taken aback, thinking he misheard. “What?”

Shang Cheng’s expression grew cold. “I’ve met your mother a few times. She’s rational and gentle. Her husband should be proud.”

If anyone else said that, it would sound flattering and insincere, but Shang Cheng’s tone was natural and assured, with just the right touch of irony, causing Shushi Yun’s heart to skip two beats.

“Thank you.”

The heavy weight in his heart slowly lifted, and for a moment, all those troubles seemed forgotten.

It was time to part. Shushi Yun calculated his upcoming schedule.

“Is your work piled up since you came back?”

Outside, the wind picked up at night, lifting strands of hair from his forehead. His shoulder was gently blocked as Shang Cheng naturally moved him to the leeward side.

“Busy these next couple of days. I have to go home Friday evening. What about you?”

Shushi Yun counted on his fingers. “Just some backlog. I livestream every night lately. If you have time, I can clear my schedule...”

He hesitated, suddenly nervous.

This wasn’t the first time he’d invited Shang Cheng, but every time, he felt tense, afraid of rejection.

Before he could finish, Shang Cheng spoke. “It should be me inviting you.”

He glanced at the time. “Is noon on Saturday convenient? I’ll pick you up.”

Shushi Yun’s eyes lit up, nodding sheepishly. “I’m free. Message me before you come so I can get ready.”

Shang Cheng said, “Just a simple meal.”

“I just think,” Shushi Yun paused perfectly, looking Shang Cheng straight in the eye, his gaze burning, “you’d like me more if I dressed up.”

He noticed Shang Cheng’s Adam’s apple bob once and a subtle change in his eyes.

Just as he thought Shang Cheng might back out, the latter said in a low voice, “I like you no matter what.”

Shushi Yun blushed in response.

Looking away briefly, then back, he caught a mischievous glint flash in Shang Cheng’s eyes.

Unable to hold back, Shushi Yun glared. “If you like me, why aren’t you with me?”

Unexpectedly, Shang Cheng’s smile deepened.

The atmosphere grew strange. Embarrassed, Shushi Yun grabbed his bag and stormed into the yard without looking back.

His steps quickened inexplicably. After closing the door, he still felt the burning sensation of being watched, sending a tingling thrill through his heart—part frustration, part amusement.

Why did he feel Shang Cheng was acting so strangely? Always teasing him.

So much older, yet definitely not to be trifled with!

He went to the floor-to-ceiling window and saw Shang Cheng getting into his car. His phone buzzed—clearly a message from Shang Cheng.

He opened it.

Shang Cheng: [Rest early.]

Staring at those simple four words for a long moment, Shushi Yun silently grumbled.

He still wouldn’t answer his questions? Was he deliberately toying with him?

Suddenly, a serious question struck him: he didn’t know Shang Cheng’s romantic history. Everything he’d heard was just rumor.

Now that he knew most of those rumors were false, it didn’t mean Shang Cheng had no past relationships. After all, he was in his thirties, experienced and outstanding—plenty of people must have liked him.

Thinking this made his heart ache a little.

His phone buzzed again with a new message.

Shang Cheng: [Not trying to tease you. Let’s talk more when we meet Saturday, okay?]

The restlessness within him seemed to calm. Staring at the small black text, Shang Cheng’s voice automatically echoed in his mind.

His cheeks grew hotter as he gave up and collapsed onto the sofa, stuffing his phone under the pillow.

So annoying! What kind of spell had he fallen under?

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Three days after returning from a business trip, urged by Mrs. Zhao, Shang Cheng returned to the old family residence early.

Carrying a gift he had specially bought, he heard a deliberate sigh as soon as he entered.

“Ugh, been back for days but no time to visit home. Promised to come Friday, but it dragged to the weekend. People might think you’re dating and keeping company with someone, but at your age, still single. I haven’t dared join the sisters’ gatherings these past two years, afraid they’d ask what my son is up to, if he’s found a partner...”

Shang Cheng sighed helplessly. Entering, he saw Mrs. Zhao sitting cross-legged on a yoga mat, stretching along with a video.

“Well, if it isn’t my son,” Zhao Shuyi feigned surprise. “Busy man is back.”

Shang Cheng was used to this and simply asked, “Where’s my father?”

“He went fishing early this morning. Didn’t prepare your food for lunch. If he catches anything, he’ll cook it for you.” Zhao Shuyi stretched her legs slowly with the video.

Shang Cheng sat on the sofa. “I have an appointment at noon. Won’t be eating here.”

“Another social engagement?” Zhao Shuyi frowned but, seeing his expression, guessed, “A date?”

Her eyes sparkled with anticipation. Though Shang Cheng had been troubled by Shushi Yun’s situation recently, he didn’t intend to share their matters with others, so he said simply, “Just a friend dinner.”

Zhao Shuyi’s smile faded, and she didn’t look at him anymore.

“Just so you know, whatever grandfather left you won’t be yours until you marry. You’re just an employee now.”

At work, Shang Cheng was a decisive, commanding presence; at home, he was relaxed. Lowering his gaze to reply to messages, he teased her, “If I run out of money, I’ll just go home and mooch. My mom’s rich.”

Zhao Shuyi pouted. “Are you serious? Is Chengjia going bankrupt?”

Footsteps sounded outside. A middle-aged man in a wool sweater carried an empty bucket inside.

Before Shang Cheng spoke, Zhao Shuyi said, “Your son isn’t eating lunch at home. He’s going on a date!”

Shang Tingye was surprised. “Really? Finally found someone?”

“It’s not a partner, just a friend,” Zhao Shuyi huffed, standing up and noticing the empty bucket. “Knew you didn’t catch anything. Better spend your time finding a match for your son instead of fishing.”

Seeing the topic heading back, Shang Cheng revealed a little.

“I’m trying.”

That silenced both Zhao Shuyi, ready to make a big move, and Shang Tingye, about to explain. The couple exchanged surprised looks.

But the questions came nonstop—from age and name to hobbies.

Shang Cheng handled them without revealing anything.

Two hours before mealtime, Zhao Shuyi finally kicked him out, saying he should spend more time with the person instead of wasting time at home.

Resigned, Shang Cheng sent a message to Shushi Yun before leaving.

Half an hour later, Shushi Yun hurriedly changed and, hearing the car, stood from the sofa. Checking himself in the hallway mirror, he made sure he looked decent before putting on his shoes and hurrying out.

“I didn’t expect you to come so early. Didn’t you say you’d go home?” He was surprised to see Shang Cheng driving and politely got in the passenger seat.

Shang Cheng recalled Mrs. Zhao’s warning before leaving and sighed, “Can’t stay at home.”

“Huh?” Shushi Yun buckled his seatbelt. “Why?”

He knew little about the Shang family except that they were a prestigious old clan, wealthy since their ancestors. Just Shang Cheng’s holdings spanned many industries, not to mention his father.

Such a family would have strict rules, and as the only son, Shang Cheng bore many responsibilities.

No wonder the first time he met Shang Cheng, he sensed an innate noble aloofness—probably due to strict upbringing.

He felt a pang of sympathy.

Shang Cheng briefly explained, “Pressure to marry. The old topic.”

Shushi Yun understood. He knew many businesses encouraged strong alliances through marriage, and some children’s fates were sealed that way.

But surely not Shang Cheng...

“Your family probably has similar rules, right?” Shushi Yun looked out at the passing skyscrapers, worried. “Like you can’t access shares and property until you marry. I hear that a lot—kids with no real power.”

Caught off guard, Shang Cheng’s face showed subtle discomfort but only nodded.

Shushi Yun was surprised and fell silent.

The rest of the trip passed quietly. Shang Cheng frowned slightly, wondering if he’d said something wrong.

As they neared the destination, Shang Cheng noticed Shushi Yun shift beside him.

After internal struggle, Shushi Yun made a decision.

“If your family really puts that much pressure on you, you could consider me.”

Shang Cheng’s hand tightened on the steering wheel, doubting his understanding. “Consider what?”

Shushi Yun blushed, gripping his seatbelt.

“I could marry you.”