Seeing Qin Xiangyi, the small head lifted, and then said, "Are you the Flower Master?"
The memory sharing function also allowed the appearing Flower People to know everything that was happening. She politely knelt on one knee towards Qin Xiangyi and said seriously, "Your subordinate Oleander greets the Flower Master!"
Her tone was serious and rigorous, as if she had been a general in a past life.
Compared to Shaoyao's innocence and Hua Nu's worldliness, Oleander was clearly someone who didn't bend, full of a sense of justice.
Qin Xiangyi carefully observed this new Flower Person. Oleander looked up and frowned, "Flower Master?"
"It's nothing. Go back into the Flower God Ring and meet the other Flower People. This restricted space is about to collapse, and I still need to deal with the Flower Fairy's issue."
Oleander agreed without hesitation and quickly entered the independent space within the Flower God Ring. The surrounding space began to slowly turn colorful, signaling to Qin Xiangyi that she was about to return to reality.
Qin Xiangyi took a deep breath and resumed her previous posture, hugging the Zhou Muning in front of her. However, this time her lips remained a slight distance away. Since her goal was achieved, there was no need for further development.
System: Time has returned to normal. Please prepare, Host.
Immediately, Zhou Muning in front of her could move again. She watched Qin Xiangyi separate from her and breathe slightly, her gaze still not daring to meet Qin Xiangyi's. Her pursed lips conveyed her shyness.
"..."
"..."
Silence fell as expected, all feelings communicated without words. Qin Xiangyi didn't know what to say, so she waited for Zhou Muning to speak. Zhou Muning seemed to be the same; she waited and waited, but ultimately nothing came.
It was already past midnight, and clearly, no one would break this calm. Just as Qin Xiangyi thought this, her phone suddenly chimed with a WeChat notification.
"I'll check my phone. Maybe Sister Shuxuan is looking for me."
"Mhm." Zhou Muning was too shy to express her emotions from just now. She turned her body away, trying to calm herself down.
Qin Xiangyi breathed a sigh of relief. Although she was happy about Oleander's creation, the awkwardness in reality was suffocating.
Ultimately, she had only sought power and survival, betraying her conscience. But she also worried that Zhou Muning would misunderstand everything.
After all, it was a three-minute kiss. Although Qin Xiangyi had made no further advances, the situation was indeed ambiguous.
Qin Xiangyi let out a wry smile and lowered her head to check her phone. Unexpectedly, her casual guess was correct. WeChat was from Jing Shuxuan, who was asking about her situation after knowing she was staying at home.
[WeChat] Jing Shuxuan: Tomorrow is the weekend. I can drive to pick you up.
[WeChat] Qin Xiangyi: No, no need. I don't have much stuff.
Qin Xiangyi naturally didn't tell Jing Shuxuan that she had brought Zhou Muning along, knowing that even though the two had never met, their impressions of each other were not good.
Zhou Muning knew that the original Qin Xiangyi was afraid of Jing Shuxuan, so she had a bad impression of her;
As for Jing Shuxuan, she always felt that Zhou Muning had caused Qin Xiangyi so much suffering, so she wouldn't have a good impression either.
If the two were to meet, Qin Xiangyi would undoubtedly find herself in a love triangle.
[WeChat] Jing Shuxuan: Alright, but be careful when you're living alone.
Jing Shuxuan had no choice but to agree, but she still asked with concern about Qin Xiangyi's condition alone there.
Qin Xiangyi casually gave a few perfunctory replies, while also looking at the still-lying Zhou Muning. She seemed unable to calm her mind and couldn't turn to look at Qin Xiangyi. But Qin Xiangyi also noticed that Zhou Muning's earlobes were completely red. That appearance, combined with her natural beauty, was captivating.
Qin Xiangyi's lips couldn't help but be mesmerized by this pleasing scenery. Suddenly, Jing Shuxuan initiated a video call to check up on her.
[WeChat] Jing Shuxuan: Still worried. Let me see if you've slept well.
[WeChat] Jing Shuxuan: Why aren't you answering? Did you run off somewhere again?
Ever since Qin Xiangyi caused trouble at the hotel and crippled Qin Family Uncle's hand, Jing Shuxuan no longer trusted Qin Xiangyi as much as before. Qin Xiangyi felt a mix of amusement and helplessness. She thought for a moment and then reminded Zhou Muning next to her.
"Ningning, don't make a sound later."
"Why?" Zhou Muning turned her head. Even though her cheeks were still red, she couldn't quite understand Qin Xiangyi's request.
"Sister Shuxuan is Prince Qin's fiancée. What do you think she'll think of you?" Qin Xiangyi had to continue to deceive her, hoping Zhou Muning would see the reality of the situation.
Zhou Muning said "Oh," and then added, "Alright. But if she says anything excessive, I'll still come out."
"How could she? Sister Shuxuan is quite good to me."
Qin Xiangyi quickly explained, thinking Zhou Muning's attitude would soften. However, Zhou Muning just leaned beside her without speaking. From her expression, she seemed even more displeased.
Qin Xiangyi sighed helplessly but sat up straight and answered the video call, focusing the camera on her face to avoid revealing the lying Zhou Muning.
A few seconds later, Jing Shuxuan's figure appeared. She was still in her work clothes, making Qin Xiangyi realize why Jing Shuxuan was contacting her so late.
"Sister Shuxuan, if you're tired, you should sleep early. I can manage on my own." Qin Xiangyi blurted out subconsciously. The Jing Shuxuan on the other end smiled gently, "No matter how busy I am, I have to check on you. I'm so sorry I'm only seeing your message now."
Jing Shuxuan's voice was full of apology. Due to signing the contract with Young Master Chen earlier, and with the Sales Manager's meddling, Jing Shuxuan insisted on handling every step herself. She had checked everything and only left after seeing the logistics being loaded.
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Chapter 98 [2] Caught in the Act -_-||
Jing Shuxuan's fatigue was completely visible in her words, yet she was still trying her best to keep her spirits up and chat with Qin Xiangyi. However, judging by her lying posture, she looked like she was about to fall asleep.
Qin Xiangyi said helplessly, "Sister Shuxuan, you really don't need to do this. Go to sleep quickly. You can't even keep your eyes open."
"No, I'm a bit unhappy today. Seeing you can make me happy." Jing Shuxuan's tone became lighter, and she even deliberately leaned closer to the screen to examine her.
It seemed that both Jing Shuxuan and Zhang Mou liked Qin Xiangyi without her glasses on. It was unclear if it was due to her extremely high attractiveness or if her face had some other special ability.
"I can see you tomorrow. Alright, go to sleep early and don't think about those messy things." Qin Xiangyi continued to comfort her helplessly, then felt Zhou Muning next to her tugging at her clothes with dissatisfaction, clearly disliking being disturbed in this state.
The way she looked down made Jing Shuxuan notice something strange. Her gaze sharpened slightly, and she said, "Xiao Yi, were you with someone?"
With just a movement and a look, Qin Xiangyi realized she had given herself away.
"No..." Qin Xiangyi tried her best to maintain her pose, while her free hand reached out to touch Zhou Muning, hoping for some help.
Qin Xiangyi had already explained that Zhou Muning wasn't there. If she were caught in a lie now, the trust between them would start to erode.
Zhou Muning was still a little reluctant, but she eventually moved aside. Qin Xiangyi's phone naturally swiveled, pointing to her side. Jing Shuxuan's tone softened a bit. "Maybe I was just overthinking it. You know, we were scared half to death by ghosts yesterday."
Jing Shuxuan breathed a sigh of relief, then remembered a scene that still made her heart pound. She was worried that Zhang Mou might trick Qin Xiangyi and endanger the Qin family's safety.
"There's really nothing here. Even if there were, they'd be scared away by seeing me, so Sister Shuxuan, don't worry. Go to sleep quickly." Qin Xiangyi agreed with a smile, wanting to end the conversation quickly. Outside, Zhou Muning seemed to bump into something, making a sound.
In the quiet room, the noise was jarring. Jing Shuxuan noticed it immediately and started to worry about Qin Xiangyi.
"I think I heard something."
"It must be Shaoyao practicing outside. Sister Shuxuan, don't be scared. I'm not an ordinary person; I'm a Chosen One." Qin Xiangyi had to come up with another excuse, blaming the demonic beast Shaoyao for everything.
Jing Shuxuan had no choice but to accept it. After a few more minutes of nagging Qin Xiangyi, she hung up. Qin Xiangyi put down her phone and went outside, finding Zhou Muning sitting in the courtyard, enjoying the breeze.
She stared at the sky, looking very unhappy. They had just created a memory, and Qin Xiangyi had been so nervous and shy, yet she was chatting with Jing Shuxuan for so long as if nothing had happened.
Qin Xiangyi walked over and saw Zhou Muning looking down, lost in thought. She tried to get a clear look at Zhou Muning's expression, but Zhou Muning turned her head away evasively.
Qin Xiangyi felt helpless. She crouched down in front of Zhou Muning and saw the grievance in her eyes.
"Are you angry?"
"Why would I be angry?"
Zhou Muning replied, pursing her lips, resisting the urge to show more emotion. Zhou Muning had always been gentle, even somewhat submissive. A girl like Zhou Muning, who considered others too much, was a typical example of a good person.
"If you're really not angry, then move over a bit, and let's chat." Qin Xiangyi understood and smiled. Zhou Muning was a little hesitant to move, so Qin Xiangyi simply hugged her and forced her to sit in her arms.
Zhou Muning was startled. She was increasingly realizing that Qin Xiangyi's personality and other aspects had changed. Before, even carrying twenty pounds was difficult for her, but now, holding Zhou Muning, she showed no reaction at all.
"Are Chosen Ones really that good?" Zhou Muning voiced her question, feeling very lost.
In Ocean City, Chosen Ones were ostracized, yet there were also many admirers who fantasized daily about obtaining the abilities of a Chosen One through various means and becoming one of them.
"It depends on how you use that power. For me, it doesn't seem like there's been much change, except that I can now carry you." Qin Xiangyi smiled slightly. Zhou Muning then remembered that she was sitting in Qin Xiangyi's arms and struggled a few times.
But her struggles were weak, and Zhou Muning eventually gave up. She also understood that the Qin Xiangyi in front of her would never hurt her.
The wind tonight was cool, and the cicadas chirped softly in the distance. It was too quiet, too peaceful. Zhou Muning finally seemed to calm down a little. She gently pushed Qin Xiangyi this time and whispered, "I'm not angry anymore."
Qin Xiangyi let go, and they resumed their normal sitting positions, looking at the stars above. For a moment, neither knew what to say.
Time continued to flow slowly, and in the blink of an eye, it was three o'clock. Zhou Muning felt drowsy and leaned her head on Qin Xiangyi's shoulder. Then she asked, "Do you think our friendship will last?"
Qin Xiangyi sat up straight and said earnestly, "Of course. I'll remember what happened just now for the rest of my life."
Zhou Muning was her first kiss, and the first Flower Person she had ever obtained. For all intents and purposes, this memory was incredibly profound.
Zhou Muning looked at Qin Xiangyi's eyes and finally smiled shyly, "That's good... I... I'll come see you during the holidays."
Qin Xiangyi also relaxed, returning to their usual casual conversation.
"I can go find you too."
"It's better not to. I've heard Heaven City is very dangerous, and I don't want to be constantly worried. Besides, I still prefer Ocean City."
Zhou Muning played with her hair, but her eyes involuntarily welled up with tears again. Qin Xiangyi reached out and hugged her. Zhou Muning couldn't help but cry.
Qin Xiangyi didn't make any further promises. She knew that as an outsider, she couldn't fulfill any promises.
Finally, Zhou Muning cried until she was tired and sleepy. Qin Xiangyi carefully carried her inside.
Although she wanted to check on the Flower God Ring, Zhou Muning seemed to be sleeping restlessly. The unfamiliar bed and her emotional turmoil earlier had left Zhou Muning in a very sensitive state.
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Chapter 99: [1] An Asura Field So Soon?
In the end, Qin Xiangyi chose to stay, lying in bed with Zhou Muning to welcome the dawn...
A few hours passed quietly. When Qin Xiangyi opened her eyes again, Zhou Muning was already up and sitting outside, reading a book.
Sunlight was hitting her, illuminating her already graceful and beautiful figure like a beautiful painting. Seeing Zhou Muning in this posture, Qin Xiangyi's first thought was of Huangquan, who loved to read.
Zhou Muning seemed to sense the footsteps behind her and turned to look at Qin Xiangyi.
"You're awake?" Zhou Muning smiled, her smile as warm as the sun. That sunshine was so dazzling, it always made Qin Xiangyi feel despicable for using others' feelings.
"Yes, good morning."
"Good morning."
They greeted each other, then went into the villa to wash their faces and brush their teeth, and made a simple breakfast with items from the refrigerator.
Unlike the leisure of yesterday, today they also needed to sort through Qin Xiangyi's belongings.
"Look, I found your composition notebook from your first year of high school."
"This is the award we won as a group. I didn't expect you to keep it."
With Zhou Muning's presence, the process of sorting became much happier. Qin Xiangyi listened as Zhou Muning recounted stories that didn't originally belong to her but now did.
It took about two to three hours to tidy everything up when suddenly, a noise came from outside. Zhou Muning's nerves immediately tensed, and she became uneasy again, as if she thought the butler from before had returned.
Qin Xiangyi also seemed confused; she hadn't asked the butler, Little Grass, to come over today. After a moment's thought, she walked out and discovered that the visitors were actually Zhang Mou and Jing Shuxuan.
The two walked with a bit of caution, seemingly still affected by the villa's lingering aura.
"Auntie, Sister Shuxuan, why are you here?" Qin Xiangyi asked. The two were startled. Upon seeing Qin Xiangyi, they relaxed a little, exchanged glances, and Jing Shuxuan spoke first.
"I was just worried you might be too busy to handle everything alone, so I came to see... As for Auntie, I met her on the way," Jing Shuxuan said, her expression subtle, leaving Qin Xiangyi to wonder how much truth there was to the "met on the way" story.
However, both of them noticed that Qin Xiangyi was completely unharmed, and they began to suspect that the supernatural event they encountered that day was merely a hallucination they experienced in the villa.
Or perhaps, as Qin Xiangyi's mysterious friend Hua Linglong had suggested, demons and monsters had truly vanished without a trace by last night.
Seeing their eyes still scanning her, Qin Xiangyi felt a bit uneasy. Even more unsettling, she remembered what she had told Zhang Mou and Jing Shuxuan.
As Qin Xiangyi thought of this, she looked back. Zhou Muning, knowing she could no longer hide, walked out. "Hello, Auntie. It's nice to meet you. My name is Zhou Muning."
Zhou Muning first greeted Zhang Mou with a nod, then looked towards Jing Shuxuan.
As Zhou Muning and Jing Shuxuan's eyes met, the atmosphere became tense, as if the two were sworn enemies from a past life.
But Jing Shuxuan did not reveal that Qin Xiangyi had lied. Instead, she patted Qin Xiangyi's shoulder meaningfully, as if to say they would settle things later.
Qin Xiangyi knew there was no escaping the lie now, but she had achieved her goal, so the outcome didn't seem as important.
Next, Jing Shuxuan swaggered into her room and then commented on how many books Qin Xiangyi had in her room, with so few other possessions.
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