chapter 2

My health is poor, and I have difficulty walking.

It’s not that I’m completely unable to walk, but I’m too weak to stand for long periods.

Yet when Xu Sixian saw me sitting in a wheelchair, he didn’t show the pity or shock that others did.

He didn’t even glance at my legs. Instead, he lowered his eyes with composure, his expression gentle and restrained.

Uncle Chen informed him about my intention to sponsor him-the exceptionally generous and flexible terms, and if he met my requirements, he could even receive a sum large enough to secure his family’s future.

Xu Sixian’s fingers at his side curled slightly.

The price of fate’s gifts had long been clearly marked.

He couldn’t possibly be unaware that there’s no such thing as a free lunch.

Uncle Chen was meticulous in his work. Sensing Xu Sixian’s doubts, he explained that this was simply a coincidence, that Xu Sixian had been chosen as the beneficiary of a certain charity project.

I said nothing, though I felt it was unnecessary.

I was certain Xu Sixian wouldn’t refuse.

He must have been suppressed to the point of suffocation.

Cheng Song wouldn’t target Xu Sixian directly, but all Cheng Song had to do was show a hint of displeasure, and someone eager to please would do something to “appease” Cheng Song.

For example, easily ruining Xu Sixian’s job, squeezing his grandmother out of her hospital bed, and then spreading rumors so he couldn’t even find his footing at school.

Someone with nowhere to turn has no room to refuse.

Who else could he ask for help? Who could he even ask what he’d done wrong?

But from beginning to end, he never said “okay.”

Not until Uncle Chen left, closing the door behind him.

“Miss He.” Xu Sixian’s eyes were clear and sincere as he asked, “What do I need to give in return?”

I felt a little uncomfortable, resting my head on the desk. After a while, I answered softly.

Xu Sixian noticed my discomfort. Seeing I didn’t respond, he hesitated for a moment, then poured me a cup of warm water.

His slender fingers pushed the porcelain cup toward me, carrying a jade-like quality.

Then, I saw him speak.

I couldn’t hear his voice, only saw those beautifully shaped thin lips moving, as if asking whether I needed him to call Uncle Chen.

Sunlight fell on my eyelashes. I squinted, studying his refined and delicate features.

Suddenly, I felt very satisfied.

He was quite good-looking, no less than Su Wantang.

What did I want him to give?

I hadn’t decided.

I was just curious.