Chapter 219: I'm Outside Your House
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"How can you expect me to trust you when you literally just betrayed me?" Xinghe challenged.

"That is an unfounded accusation," Ee Chen argued with a pout, "I didn't side with Ruobing but helped you to do the design, isn't that enough to prove my loyalty? Didn't I answer every single one of your questions? I have nothing to hide…"

"Did you forget about the little fact that you helped her steal my design‽"

"That claim is untrue because the design I gave her is a fake, I swear!"

Xinghe's lips curved into a smile. "The design you gave her would still be a fake even whether you planned to or not."

Ee Chen was temporarily stunned as the truth of what Xinghe said slowly dawned on him. He groaned, "So you've been guarding against me all along."

"And reality proves that I was right to do so." Xinghe stressed and Ee Chen was shamed into silence.

However, a smile quickly returned to his face. "You see, this only validates my choice of picking you over her! You are way smarter and more cautious than she'll ever be. I promise you will not regret this partnership because I've decided to stick close to you!"

"Get out—" Xinghe ordered suddenly.

Ee Chen was at a loss. "Get out?"

"You heard me. Your help is no longer required for the artificial limb design. Regarding the partnership, I'm still undecided. The day you pass me the thing in your possession will be the day I consider the partnership with you."

Ee Chen didn't think she will be so unfeeling. He muttered petulantly, "But what I said is the truth. You can trust me with the stuff…"

"I only trust myself."

"It's back to that thing, isn't it? I already told you, I really didn't betray you…"

"That is a matter of terminology. I advise you to leave on your own before I call security."

Ee Chen was certain Xinghe wasn't going to budge so he said helplessly, "Fine, I'll go. After I help you procure more information on people like us, perhaps then you'll see that I'm on your side."

Xinghe didn't respond and her expression was unreadable.

Ee Chen left soon after.

Xia Zhi and Xiao Mo were both befuddled as to why Xinghe let him go just like that, without any severe punishment.

Xinghe didn't go into details, she only said that the designs on Ruobing's hands are all fake so that at least brought a little relief to Xia Zhi and Xiao Mo.

However, Xinghe was still chased out of the lab. That fact was undeniable.

Without support of the lab, how could they construct the design?

Just when Xinghe was debating whether to call Mubai for help, her phone rang. It was from her ex-husband.

Xinghe hesitated for a moment before picking it up, "Hello."

"I'm outside your house, come out for a moment," he said before immediately hanging up.

Xinghe closed her mobile and walked to her front door.

She looked out the window. Night had fallen…

Mubai stood by the side of his car. Over his usual white formal shirt, he threw on a simple black coat for warmth. He had his hands in his pockets and he was looking up at the sky as if he was studying the constellation.

The lanterns around Purple Jade Villas were on for the night and the bright lights reflected the ones twinkling in the sky.

The night, the stars, the man and the atmosphere, the romantic scene was set.

Xinghe stepped out of the door and Mubai turned from her footsteps.

Like in many romantic dramas, their eyes met…

In that brief moment of eye contact, Xinghe saw many complicated emotions that swirled in his eyes.

She looked away and asked, "Why did you call for me?"

"Why you didn't come to me when something huge like this has happened?" Mubai asked in return.

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Chapter 220: No Contact
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

There was no reproach in his question, if anything, Xinghe could hear layers of concern.

"You mean the thing where I was chased out of the lab?"

"Yes, didn't I tell you to come to me if anything happens?"

Obviously she didn't, because he heard this from someone else.

To his credit, he rushed back from his outstation meeting overseas the moment he heard wind of this.

He had business meetings planned for the rest of the week but he bought an immediate ticket and flew back, abandoning them all.

Xinghe admitted flatly, "I was just considering contacting you."

He happened to be faster than she imagined.

Mubai gave a wide grin and suddenly pulled on her arm, saying, "Come on, get in. We'll find some place more comfortable to talk this over."

Xinghe stood her ground. "This place is as good as any."

She tried to pull her arm back on reflex but that only made Mubai hold on to her tighter. "But I just came down from the plane. I haven't had anything since morning, so please let us discuss this over dinner."

"…"

Xinghe pulled her arm back with more force this time. She said calmly, "Even so, there's no need to get physical."

After that, she climbed into his car without making a fuss. Mubai smiled wordlessly, a bright smile that lit up his face.

After he got in, he asked Xinghe, "So, what type of cuisine are you in the mood for?"

"It's your dinner." Not mine.

"I don't mind, we'll have what you're in the mood for."

"I'm in the mood to get this over with, so let's skip dinner."

Mubai was silent before telling his driver, "Go to the nearest restaurant."

The nearest restaurant near the Purple Jade Villas was, unsurprisingly, an upmarket restaurant that specialized in western food.

Before long, they arrived.

This was the first time Xinghe had dined with Mubai alone.

Mubai considered it a date while Xinghe thought of it as a business meeting.

After they made their own, Xinghe went straight to the point, "You can get me back into the lab?"

Mubai posed his own question, "I heard Ruobing completed the design my grandmother is satisfied with."

"The design is mine, she stole it from me. However, the design she has is faulty," Xinghe revealed.

"Do you have the proof? Because you can sue."

Xinghe smiled mysteriously, "There's no need. She will trip on her mistake eventually."

That piqued Mubai's interest. "What do you mean? What's your plan?"

"It doesn't concern you. You haven't answered my question yet," Xinghe pulled him back to the reason why they were even sharing dinner at the restaurant.

Mubai confessed, "Grandmother has made her decree. Ruobing is to return to the lab. Even I can't do anything about that. Unless you pull out the evidence, she's staying."

"There's no evidence, at least none that they will believe. Since, you can't do anything about this either then I will go search for a new lab to complete the research. Enjoy your dinner, I'll be taking my leave," Xinghe concluded before standing up to leave.

Mubai's strong hands reached out to pull her…

Xinghe was taken aback by the sudden contact. She turned and looked coolly at him.

Mubai's eyes zeroed in on her. "The food's not even here yet. Why the hurry?"

"I came here to talk business with you, not to have dinner. Since the talk is over, naturally there's no reason for me to stay," Xinghe argued crisply and soundly.

She wasn't playing hard to get because she never had the interest to come for dinner with him in the first place.

For her, Mubai was nothing more than a business partner. Since there was no business left to discuss, there was no need for either one of them to overstay their welcome.

For some reason, Mubai felt used. He was kicked to the side because Xinghe was done with him…

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Chapter 221: Not At All Interested in Him
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Perhaps in the whole wide world, only Xinghe would treat him this way.

Mubai conceded helplessly, "I said my hands are tied when it comes to kicking Yun Ruobing out, but I didn't say I can't help you get back into the lab."

As he expected, Xinghe sat back down again. Naturally, Mubai retracted his hand.

"But didn't your grandmother have banned me from the lab?" Xinghe argued before adding, "Actually I don't need to go back, the research can go on just fine with the support of another lab. It's just that I don't want to hand the patent over to any company other than yours."

Mubai's eyes lit up with good cheer. He was overjoyed because Xinghe was acting in his interests.

However, what Xinghe said next sent him crashing back to reality. "Such a good patent has to go to Lin Lin."

Mubai was speechless.

He should have known! In her eyes, he was nothing more than the person that was unfortunately attached to her son!

"Therefore, if it is too much of a hassle, it is not compulsory that I have to return to the Xi Family Lab," Xinghe said truthfully. She was telling Mubai, even without the Xi's support, she would achieve success.

Mubai stared at her and replied with a smile, "Don't worry, there will always be a spot for you at the lab if I have anything to do with it. The solution is actually very simple and I swear no one will be able to stand in your way."

"What solution?"

"Goodness, I'm hungry. How about we continue this after dinner?"

Two can play at this game. Mubai knew the moment he let the cat out of the bag, Xinghe would get up and leave. He couldn't allow that to happen.

Why is it so hard to have a proper dinner-date with this woman?

Mubai groaned inwardly. There was a long line of women wishing that he'd invite them out to dinner but as fate would have it, he was hooked by one who wasn't part of that line.

Of course, even Mubai himself was surprised by how deep he had fallen for the lady sitting across from him.

Xinghe narrowed her eyes at him as if reading his thoughts.

Mubai fidgeted in his seat, worried that she would walk out on him.

He was saved by the waiter because before she could come to a decision, their food arrived.

Mubai had ordered a scrumptious full course meal. Everything was exquisite.

Mubai helped Xinghe slice a piece of steak and set the juicy piece of red meat on her plate. "The house special is their steak, give it a try."

Xinghe picked up her cutlery wordlessly and started eating.

Mubai looked at her and his face lit up with a satisfactory smile. "What kind of cuisine is your favorite? We should do this more often."

"No, we shouldn't," Xinghe rejected him outright.

"I meant we should do this more often as a family, bring Lin Lin along with us," Mubai immediately tried for another tactic.

Xinghe raised her eyes to look at him. She said directly, "Don't rope Lin Lin into this. Furthermore, I don't have to see him now, I only hope that your family keeps your promise and let me raise him for a few years."

Mubai's smile turned down slightly. There was an appeal in his eyes when he said, "But it's my wish to return Lin Lin to a more complete family."

"Not mine."

"…"

Xinghe turned her gaze away and continued eating. Mubai on the other hand, had set his utensils down. His appetite was gone.

Mubai was not that obtuse, his advances at romance, be they explicit or implicit, were rebuffed by Xinghe at every turn. He knew Xinghe had absolutely zero interest in him.

She might even be more than a little bit annoyed by his incessant advances.

To her, he was truly nothing more than some uninteresting object.

He knew there was no reason for her to accept him, to love him, but he couldn't help but feel hurt by that knowledge.

Perhaps this was the universal feeling for unrequited lovers…

Jumping through hoops to elicit a response from the one person they'd fallen for.

Unfortunately for Mubai, trying to get Xinghe to talk was like trying to draw blood from a rock.

His appetite lost, Mubai stared at Xinghe somberly.

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Chapter 222: I Just Want to Hug You
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Naturally, Xinghe could feel his gaze on her.

She once again raised her eyes to meet his. She questioned, "Didn't you say you were hungry?"

"…" Mubai didn't answer, he just stared at her wordlessly.

"Well, since neither of us is hungry, let's get down to business." She put down her utensils and continued, "Tell me, what is your solution?"

"You're willing to talk to me only if it's business-related?" Mubai blurted out, perhaps due to the impatience from being ignored the entire night.

Xinghe's expression remained unchanged as she replied, "Of course, hasn't it always been like this between us?"

"…" She's right.

Mubai laughed self-deprecatingly. "You're right. It is true that we barely shared more than a few words during our marriage. Our relationship has always been sterile and professional."

"I'm glad you see it that way too."

"If I'd known, I would have treated you better. I'm so sorry!" Mubai confessed suddenly.

He finally managed to break Xinghe's composure, but not by much. Xinghe was slightly surprised by his apology, she definitely wasn't expecting that. She saw sincerity in the pair of eyes that kept staring at her.

"Xia Xinghe, do you regret marrying me?"

"There is no room for regret in my life," Xinghe answered truthfully.

Regret was nothing but a burden to her. Life was a constant moving forward. There was no use regretting over things in the past because Xinghe believed one could always use the present and the future to rectify it.

Mubai nodded slightly because he understood what she means. "I too have been living my life without regrets, but now, I realize I do regret something…"

Regret for not knowing the real her sooner. Regret for meeting each other at the wrong time.

It was a case of right place, right people, but the wrong time…

If he had seen her real self since the very beginning, he wondered how different things would have been…

Alas, there was no redo in life.

These thoughts darkened Mubai's gaze.

He couldn't help but ask, "If we were allowed a do-over and this was our first meeting, would your impression of me be different from the one you have now?"

She decided to indulge him in the game of conjecture. She admitted to herself she would probably have admiration for a man as impressive as he is.

However…

"It is impossible between us."

Sadness entered Mubai's eyes but Xinghe's tone went icier as she added, "Forever impossible!"

Xinghe stood up and said, "I think I should go."

There was nothing left to be said.

Xinghe turned to leave. There was determination and resoluteness in her every step.

Mubai stared intensely at her back and clenched his hands tightly.

He leaped up from his seat to chase after her. Xinghe heard the door behind her open and felt the air-conditioning from within caress her skin. The next thing she knew, she was pulled into a bear hug from behind!

The sudden physical contact unsettled her…

Mubai held onto her tight, not giving her any wiggle room to get out of the hug.

Before she could say anything, she heard from behind, "For this once, please tolerate my selfishness; I just want to hug you!"

Xinghe relented. She stood in his hug wordlessly and motionlessly.

Pain and helplessness twisted at his heart.

He would rather she struggle or be angry at him, anything but a void of emotions…

For the first time in his life, Mubai understood the feeling of heartache.

Sometime later, he finally loosened his grip. There was nothing else he could do, he was powerless before her.

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Chapter 223: Given to Xia Xinghe
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Go to the lab tomorrow. I assure you, no one will cause you trouble," He let go off her and instructed solemnly, "I will try to keep my distance for this period to not cause you any distractions but I really hope you will reconsider the thing… between us. Either way, I shall warn you that I will not give up easily."

Xinghe turned back to look at him. She saw a well of emotions in his eyes.

She hated seeing them there because she was very bad at handling complicated emotions…

That was her Achilles' heel.

 Xinghe opted for avoidance. She left without saying another word.

Before she could take another step, she felt someone pull on her wrist. She turned around to toss Mubai a confused look. "Anything else?"

Mubai's gaze became normal. It was as if the confession didn't even happen.

He ordered, "Get in the car, I'll send you home."

"That's not necessary…"

He didn't give her the chance to reject him as he ushered her into his car. Xinghe was tired of resisting. She allowed him to toss her into the car. She didn't want to waste energy challenging him on frivolities like this.

Mubai hopped into the car after her and the fancy car soon left the restaurant…

Neither of them realized Tianxin was staring at them hidden in the corner of the restaurant building.

She stared dumbfounded at the car that was speeding away, her eyes filled with disbelief and terror.

Tianxin had been stalking Mubai, hoping that he'd be touched by her perseverance and take her back.

Instead, what she saw made something in her mind snap.

She was outside the window looking in when Mubai and Xinghe were having dinner.

And she was there again when both of them was tugging and pulling by the entrance.

Their every physical contact was a blow to her heart but the worst blow of all was the look in Mubai's eyes.

She saw his concern, love, desire, and care for Xinghe in them!

All the things that she pined for day and night but never got…

Now, he had selfishly given all of them to Xia Xinghe!

So many years of hard work and she didn't even get a look from Mubai. Xia Xinghe didn't even appear to try and yet she'd got Mubai falling head over heels for her.

But God, didn't you say he is mine…

Wait, this is a trial, isn't it‽ I know a reward as good as Mubai doesn't come easy so there has to be a trial!

Yes, it must be to smite the b*tch, Xia Xinghe. Yes, because everything was ruined by her reappearance!

She is a sinner for violating your ruling and sinners must be pursued by the hounds of hell! She has taken everything that belongs to me so I will have to remove her so that everything that is rightfully mine will return to me!

Envy accompanied the insane fervor that burned in Tianxin's eyes.

…

The trip back to Purple Jade Villas was spent in silence.

After leaving his car, Xinghe returned to her house quickly. Mubai waited until she disappeared into her house then he ordered his driver to leave.

His destination was not his house but the Xi family's old family mansion.

Mubai went there to inform his grandmother he was giving Xinghe fifty percent of the lab shares.

Old Madam Xi was understandably incensed. "Since when did you care about that vixen so much? Ruobing has finished the design, so your ex-wife's service is no longer needed. Why are you angering your grandmother over such a pointless matter?"

Ruobing who sat beside her was equally shocked.

She didn't expect Mubai to give Xia Xinghe fifty percent of the lab's shares!

He was giving her all the shares that were in his possession…

No one would be able to chase Xinghe if she had fifty percent of the lab's shares because she would own half of the place.

"Mubai, why are you doing this when the fact is I've finished the design? What's the point? With my completed design, she is not even needed at the lab anymore," Ruobing frowned and said.

Mubai leveled a warning glare at her before saying, "Finishing the design and constructing the product successfully are two different things. Since she hasn't lost, I will not withdraw my support for Xinghe."

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Chapter 224: Stop Targeting Her!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"But the fact is she lost!" Old Madam Xi opened her mouth to say, "Ruobing's design is perfect. I am very satisfied with it. It's only a matter of time for her to get it built. No other design or product will be better than hers."

"But you haven't even seen Xinghe's design."

Old Madam Xi declared confidently, "There's no need to. As I've said, Ruobing's design is perfect. There is no way Xia Xinghe can come up with something better than hers."

Mubai's lips curved into a mysterious smile. "Grandmother, how can you be so sure when you haven't even seen Xinghe's design?"

"Because the ingenuity in Ruobing's design cannot be denied!" Old Madam Xi stressed, "The only way Xia Xinghe's design can be better than hers is if the sun rises from the west."

"What if her design is better than Ruobing's?" Mubai's question cut through loud and clear.

Ruobing's eyelid twitched involuntarily.

Her heart started to palpitate from panic.

Is it possible that Xinghe's design is better than hers?

Impossible because the one she has on her hands is designed by Xia Xinghe as well. Ruobing hated to admit it but the design is perfect. Therefore, Xinghe can only come up with something equally good as this one and definitely not something better.

Mubai had no clue her design came from Xinghe and, with Xinghe's talent, Ruobing could understand why he has such faith in her.

However, since there were two perfect designs, both designed by Xinghe, the one that finished the construction first would win.

On this particular issue, Ruobing had a head start on Xinghe so the victory was already in her bag! Ruobing had her adoptive grandmother's support; Old Madam Xi would impede Xinghe's progress at every turn!

Ruobing was going to use Xinghe's own design to triumph over Xinghe!

Old Madam Xi studied Mubai for a long time before saying, "Since you trust your ex-wife so much, how about a bet? If her design turns out to be better than Ruobing's then our Xi family will welcome her back with open arms and will not stand in your way should you want to pursue her again, how about it?"

Inwardly, Mubai laughed with self-deprecation.

The issue was not whether Xi Family was willing to accept Xinghe or not but whether Xinghe was willing to take him back.

The initiative was not with the Xi Family.

Regardless, having his family's blessing might not be a bad thing.

"You have a deal," Mubai accepted with a nod, "But what's the catch?"

Of course, he wasn't naïve enough to think his grandmother would pull him into a bet just for fun. There had to be a catch behind it.

Unsurprisingly, Old Madam Xi announced solemnly, "If her design is not better than Ruobing, you are not allowed to see this woman again and you'll promise me to find a woman to marry. Of course, that person mustn't necessarily be Chu Tianxin as long as she is good enough to bear the Xi name."

Mubai stood up and answered without giving it much thought, "I accept the bet, but I'm telling you, grandmother, I won't lose."

"Sonny, you're overestimating Xia Xinghe! Also, if she loses, you are to take back your shares. How can you just give our Xi Family's estate away just like that? Moreover, the amount is not small."

"Actually, Grandmother, if you weren't influenced by other people to purposely target her in the first place, I wouldn't have been forced to give her the lab's shares."

"So, you're saying this is our fault?"

Mubai nodded resolutely, "It is, so stop targeting her for no reason! Or else things are just going to get worse."

"You…" Old Madam Xi was too surprised to actually be angry. She didn't expect her grandson to talk to her this way.

This grandson of hers always treated her with respect, but now, he turned on her for the sake of an outsider.

"I've said all I came to say. Please do take your rest now, I'll be leaving," Mubai took his leave but this little confrontation between him and his grandmother quickly spread across Xi Family, shocking everyone in its wake.

Ruobing told Tianxin the moment she was excused by Old Madam Xi.

"What did you say‽" Tianxin was shocked when she heard the news, "Mubai gave the b*tch half of the lab's shares?"

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Chapter 225: I Will Kill You
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"That's right. Not only that, he warned us from targeting Xia Xinghe or else he might come for us himself," Ruobing added purposely to rile Tianxin up, "Old Madame Xi even promised, if Xia Xinghe actually successfully pulls the project off, she'll agree to them remarrying."

This time Tianxin was shocked into speechlessness.

Fear gripped at her heart, chilling her from head to toe.

She stopped listening to what Ruobing was saying. Suddenly, her eyes snapped into focus and she threw the mobile in her hand up against the wall!

Then, she went on a rampage, tearing everything in sight up, screeching all the while.

"What's going on‽" Mr. and Mrs. Chu rushed to her room after they heard her piercing scream and was stunned to see the chaos in Tianxin's room.

"Tianxin, are you alright?" Mrs. Chu asked with concern while she stared at her daughter like she was a complete stranger.

Tianxin's hair was disheveled and her face was a mixture of pain and anxiety, looking like a victim that had survived a natural disaster.

"Xia Xinghe…" Tianxin enunciated like the name was a swearword and her eyes glowed with immense hatred. "I will kill you! I will definitely kill you!"

Xinghe who was working in the study shivered and sneezed.

Xia Zhi came in with a glass of hot milk, asked with concern, "Sis, are you coming down with flu?"

"I'm fine, I got something in my nose, that's all. Why are you still up? You should be asleep."

"Sis, people living in glass houses shouldn't throw stone, you too should be asleep," Xia Zhi set down the glass of milk beside her. "Here, Sis, you're still working on the design? It's late, I'm sure you can continue this tomorrow."

"Just a bit more, and I'm done." Xinghe took a sip of the milk and she instantly felt refreshed. "Go back to bed. I'll be fine."

"Sis, I want to accompany you when you go to the lab," Xia Zhi said suddenly.

Xinghe raised her head in confusion. "But why?"

Xia Zhi replied seriously, "Of course it is to be your support in case those bunch of people bully you! Furthermore, another pair of eyes never hurt, I can help watch your back."

Xinghe smiled. "Do you seriously think they can bully me?"

"Sis, I know you're incredible but it's better to be safe than sorry. I guarantee certain parties will be up to something to prevent you from finishing your research."

"You're right. Certain people will definitely come for me."

"Sis, you already knew that? Do you know their plan as well‽" Xia Zhi asked excitedly. His sister was the brightest person he knew so of course she would see through their ploys.

Xinghe shook her head, "Unfortunately, that I do not know, but I am sure they will do something to prevent my success."

"That's why you need me there, to protect you."

Xinghe didn't reject his offer, instead she said, "There's no need to hurry. I'm not returning to the lab anytime soon. We'll let them believe they've won - for now."

"Then, when will you return?"

"When all the preparation's finished."

"Remember to bring me along!" Xia Zhi said with resolve. Xinghe reluctantly relented, "Alright, I will. Now go to bed."

Xia Zhi left the study happily after getting her permission. The questions brought up by Xia Zhi muddled Xinghe's mind so much so that she couldn't concentrate on her work anymore…

What will Yun Ruobing do to stop me?

…

Xinghe was absent from the lab the day after like she said.

Ruobing was relieved because she'd thought Xinghe would make her appearance.

However, she knew she couldn't let her guard down as, similar to her, Xinghe had a design of her own, she would make her appearance eventually.

Ruobing had to be ready because she needed to succeed before she could allow Xia Xinghe to even have the chance to do so.

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Chapter 226: The Chilling Smirk
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

She had found the perfect stooge to do her bidding.

It was why Ruobing purposely pushed Tianxin's buttons on the phone yesterday. She would attack Xinghe through Chu Tianxin.

Ruobing smiled smugly at the ingenuity of her plan.

Xia Xinghe, you might be extremely talented but what use is talent if you're dead!

Death will come for you soon enough.

The ingenuity of her plan lay in the fact that she would not implicate herself.

Other than Ruobing, no one knew that underneath Tianxin's kind and gracious behavior hid a vindictive and mentally unstable personality.

Ruobing believed this is because Tianxin was used to getting everything she wanted since she was young. If someone stood in the way of her target, she would lash out in ways that were often borderline insane.

Ruobing was revealed to this side of Tianxin many years ago. She still had shivers thinking about it.

At that time, they were all at schooling age. They had a classmate that had a crush on Mubai and the girl's family had close ties to the Xi's, so the girl had plenty of opportunities to get close to Mubai.

Tianxin befriended the girl to gain her trust.

During their class' camping trip, Tianxin finally carried out her devilish plan.

If not for the fact that Ruobing happened to wake up that night to use the toilet, she wouldn't have known Tianxin has such a twisted personality.

She saw Tianxin sneak to the girl's camping tent with a cage in tow. To her abject horror, the cage housed a poisonous viper which Tianxin later let loose in the girl's tent.

The girl screamed in absolute pain after the snake bit her, waking the whole camp up. To this day, Ruobing could still hear the scream reverberating in her ears.

While everyone rushed out of their respective tents, Tianxin sauntered calmly back to her own tent; a satisfied smirk on her face.

Shrouded by cover of the night, the smirk sent chills down Ruobing's spine. The whole scene extinguished Ruobing's interest in Mubai.

She was just an orphan then, there was no way she could compete with Tianxin.

Furthermore, losing her life over a man was definitely not worth it.

The camping site was miles away from the city so the girl died from the poison.

Tianxin lived her life like usual even after claiming a life, and she was only a teen then.

A teenage girl that could kill without even batting an eye…

Ruobing admitted that she wouldn't be able to go to such extreme but years had passed since then. She had felt out Tianxin's character, the girl was clever but also very objective-based; she could be easily manipulated. That was why Ruobing kept being Tianxin's friend, one reason was to keep a tab on Tianxin and another was to manipulate the narrow-sighted yet ruthless Tianxin should the need arise.

And now, the need had arisen.

A few, well-placed provocations and she could send Chu Tianxin on Xia Xinghe's tail.

Xinghe actually made it easier for her because the only thing Tianxin wanted in her life was Xi Mubai.

By reminding Tianxin of Xinghe's culpability in seducing Mubai would send her over the edge easily.

The demon residing within Tianxin had probably grown over the years.

Xinghe would have a worse ending than the girl at the camp. Ruobing smiled excitedly just thinking about that possibility. Initially, she didn't want to give Xinghe the death penalty, but Xinghe had one thing that flamed the fire of hatred within her, her incomparable talent.

Therefore, Xia Xinghe has to die! Only after your death will I have everything I deserve in life!

Due to a lack of self-consciousness, Ruobing didn't realize her mindset was starting to align with Tianxin's. She'd started to rationalize the death of Xinghe. After all, why shouldn't they remove the obstacle that stood in their way of getting the things they deserved in life?

Her mind made up, Ruobing walked away with a chilling smirk, like the one she saw so many years ago, plastered on her face…

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Chapter 227: Success Within Reach
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Their lives would only truly begin after Xinghe's death.

There was no reason why they should sacrifice their own happiness just to keep Xinghe alive so Xia Xinghe had to die; there was no other choice!

Even the mild mental case, Yun Ruobing, thought so, much less the serious one…

However, Xinghe stayed home over the following few days, not giving them to chance to plot against her.

Of course, this meant she doesn't go to the lab as well.

It couldn't be said that Ruobing minded her absence. It gave her time to focus on finishing the artificial limb construction.

Ruobing put Xinghe out of her mind as she practically moved into the lab with her team of engineers to rush the construction.

During that process, Ruobing finally had a clear picture of how capable Xinghe was.

Xinghe's technique could be said to be futuristic. Her design was at least 50 years ahead of the present technology.

In modern society, a decade of difference in technology alone was astronomical much less five.

It went to show how crazy good Xinghe was.

It was only a matter of time before she would make the whole world bow down before her.

Riches, power, and influence awaited in her future.

Envy surged within Ruobing when her inferiority was so blatant. Jealousy clawed at her sanity and she slipped off the deep end.

She swore to personally take care of Xia Xinghe should Chu Tianxin fail to do so for her!

She needed to squash Xia Xinghe before she could gather her strength.

The patent to the artificial limb design would only be uncontested after killing the real creator.

This patent was Ruobing's key to a bright future. People had killed for far less. Case in point, her 'friend', Chu Tianxin was willing to kill for a chance at a man. Ruobing smiled at her simplicity and narrow-sightedness.

However, the pair of friends was more alike than Ruobing realized or was willing to admit.

Regardless, Ruobing knew she needed to focus on constructing the artificial limb. That was the most important task at hand.

…

With Ruobing's hasty prompts, the progress for the artificial limb was going swimmingly.

It was also thanks to the latest equipment available at the lab and the large number of employees Ruobing was given free reign over.

In reality, they had mastered much of the technology prior to Ruobing stealing the design. It was only a few key details that eluded their understanding.

With Xinghe's aid, the last few remaining gaps in their design were filled. They only needed to follow the instructions on the design and the product would be ready in a week!

With success so close to her grasp, Ruobing could barely contained her excitement.

Other than Mubai, the whole Xi Family was surfeited with joy waiting for the good news from Ruobing.

Grandfather Xi wore an ear-to-ear grin every day.

With the success of the artificial limb, he would be able to bury the hatchet with his ex-wife and they would return to their life of marital bliss.

The hospital was also ready. The moment the product was finished, they would help fit it to Old Madame Xi.

Ruobing's victory was, by all definition of the word, a surefire success.

However, it was at this moment that Xinghe arrived at the lab with Xia Zhi in tow.

Naturally, Ruobing had to go meet her, if only to shove her victory in Xinghe's face.

Her worry about Xinghe finishing the design before her had long disappeared.

Victory was definitely hers. She was missing a few finishing touches before the product would be sent to the hospital for Old Madame Xi.

No matter how capable Xinghe was, she couldn't possibly finish building the artificial limb in such a short amount of time.

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Chapter 228: You Are a Lowlife, a Thieving Lowlife
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

In conclusion, Ruobing was not at all threatened by Xinghe's appearance so much so that she didn't deign to keep up her façade anymore.

The moment she saw Xinghe, a smug smile appeared on her face. "Xia Xinghe, I'm impressed that you still have the guts to show your face around here. Don't you know that success is already mine?"

"Success… You? Don't make me laugh," Xinghe scoffed.

Ruobing didn't act courteous, so there was no reason for Xinghe to be polite towards her!

Ruobing huffed angrily. "How dare you disrespect me because I'm going to rule over this lab with MY design! My product is almost complete, so that means you have already lost!"

Xinghe raised her brow with condescension. "I'm sorry but my respect is reserved for fellow human beings only, not a lowlife like you - a thieving lowlife at that."

"You—" Ruobing's face was red with anger.

However, she calmed down quickly as her lips curved into a pompous smirk. "Xia Xinghe, you can't just go around accusing people without proof. You said I'm a thief but where is your proof?"

"Your design is the best proof! It is identical to my sister's, if that is not plagiarism, I don't know what is!" Xia Zhi said angrily.

Ruobing shot Xia Zhi a withering look—

"Looks like the b*tch brought a pussy to defend her. Little boy, do you know who you're talking to? I own this place! I plagiarized her design? No, it's her who stole my design!"

Xia Zhi laughed in her face. "Thank God I decided to follow along today or else I wouldn't have known a human being as shameless as you actually existed in the world."

"I'll be sure to make you eat your words. Security, rough this trespasser up and toss him out!" Ruobing ordered coldly, she might not be able to come directly at Xinghe but she was more than capable of handling the lackeys around her.

Yes, making the people around her suffer is definitely going to get under Xia Xinghe's skin!

The security arrived quickly…

Xinghe locked the men with her chilling gaze. "Anyone who lays a finger on my brother will be fired immediately! Don't forget, I own half of the lab's shares."

She then turned to Ruobing. "If I want to, you will also have to leave."

Ruobing's face twitched slightly but she scoffed, "Xia Xinghe, do you really think you run the show? You might have half of the shares but this lab doesn't follow your ruling. I'm here on Old Madam Xi's order. So, other than her and Elder Xi, no one has the right to make me leave and that includes you!"

"You're right. Then I shall chase you out myself when they are no longer on your side. However, they will probably have you thrown out themselves. Zhi, let's not waste our time with her," Xinghe dropped a threat before turning to leave.

Ruobing obviously wasn't affected because she thought Xinghe was bluffing.

Plus, her success was inevitable. No one could take that away from her. Time would crown her the victor!

"Xia Xinghe, enjoy your life while you still can because you'll get what's coming to you soon enough." Ruobing stared daggers at Xinghe's back before calling one of her lackeys over to observe Xinghe's movement.

"Report back to me every single one of her movements. I don't care how small it may be."

"Yes!" The lackey accepted her order and left.

Not long after, Ruobing left, comfortable in the knowledge of her impeding victory. Regardless, this was the very last leg so she couldn't let up now.

Xinghe reached her own lab and searched for Luo Jun before continuing her research.

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Chapter 229: Leader Yun, We Did it
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Luo Jun said anxiously, "Miss Xia, isn't it a bit too late for us to start our research now? Yun Ruobing has already completed her design."

Xinghe was unfazed. "That is her business. In any case, we will let our final product speak for itself."

"But I've seen Ruobing's design. Miss Xia, I hate to say it but you've not seen her design, it is…"

Luo Jun's words caught in his throat when Xinghe pulled up her design on the computer screen.

He stared at the screen wordlessly, his eyes as round as silver coins.

"This, this design…"

"Is the exact replica of that woman's?" Xia Zhi finished the thought in his mind.

Luo Jun nodded vehemently. "Indeed! It's the exact same! Miss Xia, why is your design the same as Ruobing's?"

"That's because that despicable woman stole my sister's design," Xia Zhi uttered with disdain, "She stole someone else's work and claimed it as hers, such a shameless woman!"

Luo Jun was awed beyond words. "Ruobing's design was actually stolen from Miss Xia?"

"That's right!"

There was admiration in Luo Jun's eyes. "Miss Xia, your work is incredibly impressive! No wonder Ruobing suddenly finished her research a few days after you arrived at the lab even though there had been zero progress in recent years. It all makes sense now. But why didn't you expose her? Her final product is almost ready, if you bring this up after the fact, others will only think…"

Xinghe didn't miss the implication. "I plagiarized her work?"

"Indeed…"

Xinghe gave a mysterious smile. "My work is not so easily plagiarized, she will face her comeuppance soon enough. Anyway, enough small talk, let's get to work."

Xinghe quickly gave Luo Jun his assignment.

The assignment came as another surprise for Luo Jun.

Xinghe wanted him to go get one of Ruobing's prototypes. She wanted to modify the prototype instead of starting anew.

Luo Jun thought he misheard her. "Miss Xia, what did you say? You want me to go ask Ruobing's team for one of their finished prototypes?"

"Yes."

"But those are their handiwork, claiming even just one as our own is still a bit…"

Xinghe understood his concern. She replied with a smile, "So what if those are their handiworks? The design's mine, they were only the labor. Since Ruobing poured so much effort into finishing my design, not using her prototype would only disappoint her, don't you agree? Go and demand one of the finished prototypes from them, if anyone stops you, tell them they'll have the right to reject when they have more than fifty percent of the lab's shares!"

Xinghe had the shareholder's power on her side so Luo Jun had no choice but to follow her order.

Needless to say, Ruobing almost fell off her chair when she heard Luo Jun's demand.

"How shameless can this Xia Xinghe get? These prototypes are my creations, why should I give her one? What, she doesn't have enough time to create one so she's coming after one of mine‽"

Luo Jun knew this would be Ruobing's response so he added calmly, "Miss Xia said the design is yours so she won't argue that fact, however, as the person who holds half the shares to this lab, she demands Leader Yun to hand over one of your finished prototypes."

"She can own the entire lab and I will not give her one of my scraps!"

"Leader Yun, it is ready—" Right at that moment, an engineer ran over and yelled excitedly, "Leader Yun, we did it! The final product - we have it and it is perfect! Leader Yun, we finally did it!"

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Chapter 230: Success Is Hers
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The atmosphere at the lab was a fiesta.

Ruobing's team of engineers was ecstatic. They'd finally created the perfect artificial human limb.

Everyone there knew what this success meant.

It meant a giant step for the betterment of humanity, a page in the history books!

Fame and money, those were the rewards waiting for the crew who had a hand in this project.

Of course, as the manager that championed this ground-breaking research, Ruobing was going to secure herself a life of wealth and power.

Ruobing knew this development was inevitable but she still found it difficult to suppress the hysteria in her heart.

She cheered alongside her team and then turned to Luo Jun with a smug smile. "Aren't you glad you're here to share in my moment of glory‽ It is too late for Xia Xinghe, too late, you hear me! I did it first, the victory is mine!"

Luo Jun suddenly felt absolute contempt for this woman.

The design was Miss Xia's handiwork, how can she be so shameless as to claim it as hers and, not only that, gloat about it?

Luo Jun felt sorry for Miss Xia. All the rewards that were supposed to be hers were now taken by Yun Ruobing. How is that fair?

At that moment, Luo Jun wanted to expose Ruobing so badly.

However, he had no proof, so he resigned himself to standing there quietly waiting for the celebration to pass.

Ruobing cackled triumphantly, savoring Luo Jun's cowed silence. After that, she quickly pulled out her mobile to inform Elder Xi of the good news.

Elder Xi was overjoyed. He started guffawing. The attention of the people around him was attracted by this unusual behavior of his.

"Good! Good! Well done, Ruobing! Now send the arm over to the hospital now, the doctors are waiting to conduct the surgery. After this thing is over, name your price and I will give you anything you want!" Elder Xi promised happily.

Ruobing could feel her blood boiling, her eyes shined with a manic glow.

"Alright Elder Xi, I'll have my men send the thing over now!" After she hung up the phone, she also followed the crew to the hospital. Her caution toward Xinghe was completely out the window.

In her eyes, Xia Xinghe had completely lost.

Success was already hers. There was no need to be vigilant toward Xia Xinghe anymore.

Indeed, Xia Xinghe… who?

Ruobing's impression of Xinghe dropped from caution to condescension. Xia Xinghe was less than the scum under her fingernails.

Her team of engineers, especially the Dumb and Dumber Duo, felt the same way.

In their eyes, Xia Xinghe got her just deserts for coming after their beloved Leader Yun.

In the lab, perhaps only Luo Jun was on Xinghe's side. He fulfilled his responsibility and carried a finished prototype back to Xinghe.

However, he nursed a ball of fire and grievances.

"Miss Xia, you have no idea how smug that Yun Ruobing was. She has taken all the glory by using your design and she's going to the hospital now with the final product! If you don't expose her now, it'll be too late, she would have taken all the advantages."

Luo Jun's anxiousness infected Xia Zhi.

"He's right, Sis. We need to hurry and expose that despicable woman!"

Xinghe was their complete opposite, a paragon of serenity and calm.

She was taking her time poring over Ruobing's prototype.

This only made Xia Zhi more anxious. "Sis, how come you can still be so calm?"

"Why should I be worried?"

"Because Yun Ruobing is practically one step away from the finish line!"

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Chapter 231: Yun Ruobing's Vanity
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Finish line?" Xinghe scoffed, "How can she reach the finish line with a faulty product?"

Xia Zhi was reminded of the fact that Ruobing's design was a fake.

"But didn't they say they've succeeded…"

"He's right so how can it be faulty? They've tested it and the product appears to be fine." Luo Jun was equally confused.

"Because I say so," Xinghe confirmed with finality.

Xia Zhi believed her unconditionally. "Sis, I believe you. Yours is the real one and hers has to be faulty!"

"But which part of it is faulty? I've seen the design myself and it is perfect…" Luo Jun was still hung up on it.

Xia Zhi advised him, "Stop getting yourself worked up over it, just have faith in my sister. If she says it's faulty then it has to be. She has never been wrong before."

"…" It was not like Luo Jun had any other choice.

By then, Xinghe had finished poring over Ruobing's prototype. She turned to Luo Jun and ordered, "Bring me to one of the working labs and get me a few trustworthy technicians and engineers; I'm getting this done in an hour!"

Luo Jun was shell-shocked.

…

At the hospital, the group of surgeons led by Lu Qi was standing at the ready.

Every Xi Family member was there, even Tianxin.

Today was the surgery for Old Madam Xi; for the Xi family, this was a momentous event.

The whole surgery building was closed down by security guards. Unrelated personnel were not allowed entry.

Everyone was gathered in a giant conference room examining Ruobing's artificial human limb.

The limb was connected to a control panel and a few doctors were trying it out by issuing it multiple commands.

Everyone stared gob smacked at the dexterous arm…

If they didn't know it was an artificial limb, they would think it was an actual severed arm.

It looked just like one, appearance-wise!

In actuality, Xi Family's Lab had long since perfected the appearance aspect of artificial limb technology. However, they were lacking in the internal machinery that could bring it to life.

Ruobing's design was the breakthrough they've been looking for. The intricate, internal technicalities combined with the already perfect appearance lent it an authenticity that couldn't be denied.

With such an artificial limb fitted to a human being, people wouldn't be able to tell the difference.

The few doctors were beyond shock. This was a technology that they didn't expect they could see in their lifetime.

"Impressive, just too impressive!" An awed senior doctor exclaimed, "This design is simply too perfect, a much-needed catalyst to advance the medical technology!"

"Indeed, this will be a technology that rocks the world," Another doctor added.

They felt honored to be given the opportunity to participate in such a ground-breaking surgery.

This was the highest honor possible for those in the medical industry.

Even Lu Qi who was greatly influential in the medical field was on his figurative knees over the design.

He looked at Ruobing with admiration, praising, "Miss Yun, you are definitely a genius. This design and product is miraculous."

Everyone gave her admiring and idolizing looks.

This gave Ruobing's ego a massive boost. She could barely keep her vanity in check as she replied with as much humility as she could muster, "You flatter me too much, Doctor Lu. I'm barely a genius since I spent so many years toiling over this design. Success has eluded me for a very long time."

"Ruobing indeed had spent years pouring her heart and soul into this design. To be honest, I didn't expect she would achieve success so soon, so this is such a pleasant surprise…" Grandfather Xi laughed happily.

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Chapter 232: The Enhancement Is Complete!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

No one had seen Elder Xi so happy before. One could hear his happy guffaws throughout the day.

Everyone lined up to shower Ruobing with praises, to get in her good books…

There was only one exception. Mubai stood outside the conference room door, picked up his phone to call Xinghe.

"Where are you?" he asked.

Xinghe held the phone to her ear but her focus was completely on monitoring the technicians' movement. "Finishing up the product at the lab."

"Ruobing is already here with hers, the surgery will be starting soon."

There was a slight pause in Xinghe's response, but nothing beyond that. She enquired, "When exactly is the surgery time?"

"1 pm."

It was slightly past 12 pm so there was still time.

Xinghe replied softly, "Thank you, I will be there before 1 pm."

"Okay, call me if you need any help."

"Thank you."

Both hung up at the same time. The moment Mubai turned around, he saw Tianxin who was exiting the room.

"Mubai, who were you on the phone to? Was it Xia Xinghe?" Tianxin asked as she narrowed her eyes at him.

Mubai's expression was unreadable. He had no interest of starting any conversation with Tianxin.

When he made to leave, Tianxin moved to block his way. "Mubai, Ruobing has already succeeded so why are you still banking on Xia Xinghe? She has already lost!"

Mubai frowned slightly. "What is your point?"

Tianxin added sullenly, "I just want to remind you of your promise to Old Madame Xi…"

The one where if Xia Xinghe failed, he was not to have any relationship with her anymore.

Mubai chuckled. "What about the promise?"

Tianxin furrowed her brows. "What do you mean what about the promise? You can't go back on your words and stay with that woman after she fails. And on that matter, why are you so obsessed with her? I am a million times better and…"

"This has nothing to do with you." Mubai brusquely ended the conversation and went into the conference room.

Tianxin stood frigidly at the spot. Her face was one of wrath.

She gripped her hands tightly to suppress the madness, anger, and displeasure that were rising in her heart!

Xi Mubai was hers, he had to be hers! She couldn't bear the thought of giving him to someone else.

Therefore, regardless of the result, Xinghe had a calamity coming, courtesy of Chu Tianxin…

…

"Sis, I still don't get it. I realize your design is slightly different from Ruobing's, but what's the catch?" Xia Zhi asked as he stared at the design on screen.

Her whole team was confused.

The change to her design was minimal. It was pretty much the same as Ruobing's.

"The key difference is durability," Xinghe revealed.

The answer didn't exactly help clear up the confusion.

The materials used are the same, so how come Ruobing's won't be durable?

Xia Zhi had learnt to not question his sister so he stopped fixating on the question.

Xinghe didn't build the artificial limb from scratch. She merely introduced a series of enhancements to Ruobing's ready-made prototype.

With everyone's cooperation, the enhancements were done under an hour!

"Miss Xia, it's ready!" Luo Jun ran over excitedly to inform her, "What should we do now, go to the hospital?"

He couldn't wait for the face-slapping to begin and for Xinghe to claim back the glory she rightfully deserved.

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Chapter 233: Xia Xinghe Is Finally Here
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Before Xinghe could answer, Xia Zhi chimed in eagerly, "Of course, we're heading to the hospital. Isn't that right, Sis‽"

Xinghe couldn't help but smile noticing their anticipated looks. "You're right, we shall leave for the hospital now. It's time to face-slap certain people!"

Xia Zhi and Luo Jun cheered.

Xia Zhi had many reasons to be happy for Xinghe, but for some reason, Luo Jun had also found himself in Xinghe's camp.

When they arrived at the hospital, they met with Chang An who had been waiting for them.

"Miss Xia, you're finally here. CEO Xi ordered me to wait for you at the entrance so thank God you're finally here!" Chang An exclaimed happily, secretly relieved.

Xinghe immediately got down to business, "Has the surgery started?"

"It's starting soon!"

"Take us there now."

"Right this way."

With Chang An leading the way, they soon reached the top floor.

By then Old Madam Xi had been wheeled into the surgery hall.

The team of doctors was scrubbing up. The rest of the family was waiting outside the operation hall.

Almost everyone was waiting for the surgery to commence, Ruobing being the most excited of all.

After the surgery was done, she would have everything she ever wanted, to fill the gaping maw in her heart that yearned for luxury, power, and the stability that they would bring since she was an abandoned orphan girl.

Her dreams were about to come true…

"It's almost time, we shall get the operation started. Everyone, do wait for our good news," Lu Qi informed them with a smile before leaving with his team of surgeons.

"Wait—" Mubai ordered suddenly. The room turned to him with a confused look.

"What are we waiting for?" Lu Qi asked.

"We can't start the operation yet," he said in a severe and determined tone.

"Why not?"

"Mubai, what exactly are you up to?" His grandfather frowned, bewildered.

As Mubai was about to answer, they heard a series of footsteps coming their way.

For some reasons, Mubai could discern Xinghe's footsteps among them easily.

Mubai turned and he could see that he was right because Xinghe was walking towards them.

His face involuntarily lit up with a smile as their eyes matched. He felt happy from just seeing her face but he had no clue why, perhaps he was just happy on her behalf.

Other people saw her too.

Ruobing widened her eyes in shock and a seed of anxiety grew in her heart.

What is Xia Xinghe doing here at a time like this?

This question was on everyone's mind.

Mrs. Xi saw her and frowned unhappily. "Xia Xinghe, what are you doing here?"

Xinghe sauntered over calmly and confidently. Facing their curious gaze, she smiled slightly and announced, "The reason I'm here is of course to give Old Madam Xi my artificial limb. I've finished constructing my design, so I hope I'm not too late."

What! She is here to give Old Madam Xi her artificial limb?

Mrs. Xi laughed in her face. "You are indeed too late! Ruobing has already created the best artificial limb so we no longer need yours. Furthermore, your designed product can't be better than Ruobing's anyway!"

"Is that so? How can Mrs. Xi be so certain of that fact if you haven't even seen my design before?"

"Ruobing's design is perfect, there can no improvement on it, all of us here agreed. So no matter how good yours is, it can't be better than hers!" Mrs. Xi said bluntly.

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Chapter 234: She Stole my Design!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xinghe didn't answer but turned to look at Xia Zhi.

Xia Zhi took the cue and opened the big box that he was carrying in his arms. It opened to reveal a human-emulated artificial arm.

Other than Mubai, everyone present was shocked!

"Isn't… isn't this the same as Ruobing's?" Mrs. Xi blurted out.

She was right, the arm was the exact same as Ruobing's.

They had just finished studying Ruobing's product so the striking similarities couldn't be mistaken.

Ruobing dashed forward angrily. "Xia Xinghe, so you did steal my stuff! This is not your handiwork; it's mine! My team created three prototypes and the one you have there is one of mine!"

The crowd was startled.

How can Xia Xinghe steal Ruobing's design and then pretend that it is hers? The woman really knows no shame!

Mrs. Xi scoffed angrily, "Xia Xinghe, how can you steal from someone else! This is illegal; we can sue, so you better explain yourself!"

"Xinghe, how can you do something like this?" Tianxin took the opportunity to chime in.

The two ladies were swaying the crowd's opinion.

Almost everyone was looking at Xinghe with a condescending gaze.

The only exception was of course Mubai who kept a confident smile. He had great faith in Xinghe, she would rise up to the occasion.

After this short period of time together, he got a feel of her real personality.

She was an incredibly cautious person. She would only strike if she was a hundred percent confident.

He snuck a look at her, and as he suspected, there was no trace of panic on her face.

She said calmly, "I think the lot of you have mistaken. This here is my design. Other than me, no one else could have come up with it."

"You must be joking!" Mrs. Xi challenged her furiously, offended by her shamelessness, "The thing you have is the exact same replica as Ruobing's that we just saw. Plus, I was told you haven't been in the labs for the past few weeks so how could you have come up with a finished product so fast? It is clear as day that you stole this from Ruobing, that thing belongs to Ruobing!"

"Stop arguing and let me see the arm!" Elder Xi announced with authority.

Xia Zhi turned to elicit Xinghe's opinion. He strode to Elder Xi after Xinghe gave him the affirmative nod.

Elder Xi picked up the arm and studied it closely with a verifier's eye.

He narrowed his eyes sharply at Xinghe and scoffed, "This is completely the same as Ruobing's design! Do you think we are all so dumb that we wouldn't be able to tell the difference? Xia Xinghe, where did you get the courage to lie to us so openly‽"

"Xia Xinghe, why did you steal my design?" Ruobing interrogated angrily as if she had truly been wronged.

Then again, the prototype was indeed hers so she did have some justification on her side.

The design might be Xinghe's but Xinghe did steal her prototype. The dumb b*tch implicated herself.

Ruobing was angry on the surface but was actually overjoyed within because Xinghe gave her the perfect reason to crush her.

"That right, Ruobing did construct this." Xinghe admitted freely.

Ruobing was startled. So was everyone else, they didn't expect her to admit her mistake so easily.

Just as Mubai was about to jump in, Xinghe raised her finger and pointed at Ruobing. "And that should have been the extent of her claim, the physical labor, because the design behind is not hers but mine! She stole it from me!"

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Chapter 235: My Capability Is the Best Proof
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Befitting a telenovela plot, Xinghe counter-claimed that the design was hers and it was Ruobing who stole her design…

"Xia Xinghe, you are accusing me wrongly, where is your proof‽" Ruobing retorted angrily, "You say that I stole your design when the fact that is you stole mine! Or else how could you come up with such an impressive design hiding all this time at home? It is impossible without referencing the lab materials!"

"That's right. You have zero experience in this field, so how can you dare claim that the design in yours?" Mrs. Xi had zero belief in Xinghe. "I think you're here just to create chaos for everyone. Luckily, all of us here are clever enough to see through your baseless accusation."

"But this is my sister's design and the thief is Yun Ruobing," Xia Zhi argued.

Tianxin sneered. "Then, show us the proof. Xia Xinghe, if you can't produce the evidence, then Ruobing can sue you for theft of intelligence property."

Ruobing gladly piled on, "That's right, Xia Xinghe, can you produce the proof? If not, this can only mean that you stole my design! Give it up, everyone here believes the design is mine!"

"I believe the design is Xinghe's!" Mubai announced suddenly, surprising everyone.

His mother frowned and complained, "Mubai, why would you believe her? The reality is as plain as day, the design is obviously Ruobing's. If the design is really Xinghe's, why would she wait until after Ruobing finished the product to expose her? That's because she needed Ruobing to finish the prototypes so that she can steal it from her!"

Mubai explained matter-of-factly, "I believe Xinghe because I've seen what she is capable of. This kind of intricate design is way above Ruobing's level."

"That's impossible. This is Ruobing's field of expertise, and she had spent years studying this field, so the design has to be her breakthrough. In comparison, Xia Xinghe knows basically nothing, much less something as esoteric as medical computer science," Mrs. Xi voiced everyone's thoughts.

In their eyes, Ruobing was the leader of a science lab and Xinghe was a useless divorcee back to seduce her ex-husband.

It was obvious who was more believable.

Other than Mubai and a few others, no one believed Xinghe.

Even Elder Xi was not on her side. He stared gravely at Xinghe, asking, "Can you produce any proof to say that this is your design? If not, this is an imputation!"

"Father is right, produce the proof if you can," Mrs. Xi pressured.

"What kind of proof do you need?" Xinghe smiled confidently, saying, "When my capability is the best proof there is!"

"You must be joking, you are capable of nothing!" A random woman attached to Xi Family by marriage started laughing. This was the best joke she had heard all day.

Their impression of Xinghe was still stuck at the period when she was still married to Mubai, the walking shell.

So, it wasn't completely their fault that they didn't side with Xinghe. They hadn't seen what she was capable of.

"Indeed, why don't you show us what you're capable of?"

"I think something must be wrong with her brain…"

Almost everyone was ridiculing her.

Ruobing rested happily and comfortably in the knowledge that everyone was supporting her. Taking down Xia Xinghe was less of a challenge than she'd imagined.

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Chapter 236: The Original Design
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

An angry Xia Zhi suppressed his urge to punch Ruobing's smug face.

He turned to Xinghe instead, "Sis, show them the proof, let them eat their words!"

"You have proof?" Mubai also questioned, his voice filled with concern.

Actually, Xinghe had the perfect proof in the form of a witness. With Ee Chen's testimony, she would have a valid case against Ruobing.

But she didn't want to implicate Ee Chen to shield him from possible law suits.

It was not that she favored Ee Chen but he had information that she still needed.

Furthermore, in Ee Chen's defense, he didn't technically betray Xinghe and he had received due punishment so Xinghe decided to hold up her end of the bargain and not drag him into the mess.

To be perfectly honest, Xinghe wanted to spare Ruobing due to their similar history but the other woman showed zero trace of remorse. Not only that, she actively came after Xinghe, so Xinghe realized there was no point in holding back.

Xinghe smiled, confident in her plan. "The type of proof you want, I do not have. Like I said, the only proof I have is my capability. My design which Ruobing stole is indeed the best but I have to warn you, the design she stole is a fake, thus the product she made is faulty."

Ruobing was shocked, panic struck her heart.

The design I stole is fake? Impossible! The final product has undergone many tests. It passed them all so it can't be faulty. The b*tch must be lying.

The others had no reason to believe Xinghe. Mrs. Xi scornfully scoffed, "In other words, you have no proof! Xia Xinghe, you need to go to the mental department not the surgery hall. Now get lost, we don't welcome you here."

"Xinghe, we've all seen Ruobing's design and it is definitely not faulty so, for everyone's sake, please stop with the accusation." Tianxin appealed with a heartbroken expression.

Xinghe definitely did not have public opinion on her side. After all, she provided zero reason for people to trust her.

Elder Xi's patience was wearing thin. He roared angrily, "If you have no proof, why are you here to waste our time! I'm asking you one last time, is the design yours or Ruobing's? Xia Xinghe, this is the last chance I'm giving you so I advise you to think carefully before you answer."

"Of course, it is mine!" Xinghe answered in an imposing manner. Her sharp gaze stared everyone down, "Only I could come up with such a design!"

Elder Xi was startled. He could hear the faith Xinghe had in her words. Either she was telling the truth or she was highly delusional. For some reason, he started to lean towards the former.

"It is mine!" Ruobing challenged with confidence burning in her eyes, "This is my design. Xia Xinghe has spent less than two days at the lab. She couldn't have come up with something as good as this without in-house research and testing!"

"Ruobing is right. I can attest to the time and effort Ruobing has poured into this design over the years. I'm sure everyone at the lab will say the same," Tianxin said to support her friend. She had quite a good standing within the Xi Family so she managed to pull most of the crowd over to Ruobing's side.

Alas, she was unable to shake Mubai's conviction.

He added as a counter-argument to Tianxin, "This design is Xinghe's. I'm willing to bet my reputation on it!"

"That's right. This is my sister's design, I'm willing to bet my life on it!"

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Chapter 237: Use Ruobing's Product
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"I also believe the design is by Miss Xia…" Luo Jun added weakly.

In total, three people believed Xinghe.

The situation entered a stalemate, neither party refused to back down.

Regardless, even with Mubai's support, Xinghe was on the weaker side because she couldn't produce factual proof that the design was hers.

"Now is not the time to argue about this because we need to carry on with the surgery," Lu Qi interrupted suddenly. He was tired of the drama. He just wanted to get the job done.

Lu Qi turned to Elder Xi and said, "Elder Xi, we have to start the surgery soon. Please decide now, whose product are we using."

Elder Xi hesitated, caught between logic and faith.

Even though he fully believed the design was Ruobing's, at that particular moment, he found the decision to be extremely hard.

After all, too many things hinged upon this one decision… He didn't want to risk anything.

"Elder Xi, I know you have a good eye for character. Have faith in my words," Xinghe said softly.

Elder Xi stared at her wordlessly but the uncertainty on his face was conspicuous.

"Grandfather Xi, my design is perfect, and you've inspected the final product yourself. Xia Xinghe can say those words because the one she has is also one of mine, so there is technically no difference which one you pick because they're both mine," Ruobing explained in a hurry, worried that Elder Xi would be persuaded by Xinghe.

Xinghe chuckled; she leveled an icy stare at Ruobing before saying, "Who said our products are the same. Admittedly, the actual difference is small but it is the key that decides whether the product is faulty or not!"

"Xia Xinghe, just how do you sleep at night? You stole my design and now have the audacity to frame me. Karma will punish you!" Ruobing said with indignation. The room was sold by her acting. After all, would she act this way if she was not really the victim?

Even Xinghe was impressed by the woman's utter shamelessness.

"Nice acting there. But Yun Ruobing, real is real; fake is fake. I advise you to come out and admit your mistake before your actions hurt somebody," Xinghe persuaded. However, Ruobing had long since passed the point of honesty; there was no way she was willing to admit her mistake.

"The design is mine, that product you have over there is mine, I swear to God, they are all mine!" she yelled agitatedly at Xinghe, but it was difficult to tell whether she was convincing the crowd or herself.

Xinghe's face frosted over. "Fine, if you want to do it this way so be it. Don't say I didn't warn you beforehand, Yun Ruobing. And if the rest of you want to side with her then feel free to use her product, but I am not accountable for what happens next."

Suddenly, a nurse opened the surgery room door to say, "Old Madam Xi said to use Miss Yun's product; she believes her."

It turned out Old Madam Xi had heard everything from within.

She had the nurse come out to relay her intention.

After all, of all the people there, her most trusted confidant was Ruobing.

She raised Ruobing herself and Ruobing had done everything she could to repay her kindness. Old Madam Xi trusted her adopted granddaughter unconditionally.

Since his ex-wife had made the decision, Elder Xi followed, "Okay then, we will use Ruobing's!"

Ruobing's eyes widened with surprise and joy. However, she quickly turned to gloat at Xinghe. Of course, she couldn't miss the chance to rub her victory in Xinghe's face!

Many people in the crowd also tossed smug looks at Xinghe; they believed fully picking Ruobing was the right choice.

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Chapter 238: Fate on the Line
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

They thought Xinghe would punch herself from the failure of her plan.

To their bitter disappointment, Xinghe merely turned around and walked away wordlessly.

However, she didn't leave. She stopped in front of a long bench and planted herself there.

It appeared like she was waiting for the surgery to finish…

Witnessing her shamelessness, the group of people started to say unsavory things about her.

Thankfully, Xinghe was far away from them so she didn't hear anything. Then again, she probably wouldn't have reacted even if she did.

The same couldn't be said for Xia Zhi.

He was incensed by the condescending looks the crowd kept tossing their way.

"Sis, these people are really too much. How can they not believe you and choose to believe that wily thief? Bunch of blind idiots!" Xia Zhi who stood in front of her groused.

"Miss Xia, do you have any other plan? Is there no proof you can produce to show your innocence?" Luo Jun was also fuming with indignation.

In contrast, Xinghe was as calm as ever.

"Don't fret, I'd predicted as much," she comforted them.

Xia Zhi was startled. "Sis, you predicted this? Then, why are we here to suffer? We should find ourselves a lawyer and sue that Yun Ruobing!"

Xinghe smiled good-naturedly. "But they were right. I can't produce any proof. Ee Chen will definitely not sell her out."

Technically speaking, Ee Chen was Ruobing's accomplice in helping her steal the design. Selling her out would only implicate him.

That was probably why Ruobing was so confident that her plan would not fall apart.

"Then what can we do? Sit here quietly and see that Yun Ruobing take all the credit that is rightfully yours? I can't stand that smug face of hers!"

"Don't worry," Xinghe said calmly, "The proof will show itself soon enough."

Xia Zhi and Luo Jun were pleasantly surprised.

"Sis, what do you mean by that? What proof?"

"The faulty product itself is the proof."

The answer came not from Xinghe but Mubai who was walking towards them.

Xia Zhi and Luo Jun looked at each other in confusion over his sudden arrival and answer. They had a hard time understanding what he meant.

Mubai didn't explain, instead he stared deeply at Xinghe before adding, "I want to have a private conversation with Xinghe."

Before waiting for the two of them to respond, he sat down beside Xinghe and asked under his breath, "Am I right?"

Xinghe turned to look at him before nodding, "You're right."

"What will be the consequences?"

"Nothing life-threatening, a little pain of the flesh."

"You have no intention of stopping it?"

"I could ask you the same thing."

Mubai's lips curved into a smile. "Certain people need a sound slap to the face before they can see reality more clearly. Other than that, not stopping this will give them the chance to see the real you and cure their prejudice."

"I'm not doing this to change their impression of me." I'm doing this just for my son.

Mubai understood the words that were left unsaid. His dark eyes glowed slightly before continuing, "Indeed, you shouldn't jump through hoops to purposely endear yourself to others. Living with a constant mask is a pain. Use your talent to impress them all and they will love you for who you are and not how you act."

At least that is why I fell in love with you.

I love how real you are and the confident way you carry yourself; the majestic presence that speaks of the fact that you have control of your own fate.

The self-assurance and the talent behind it, they are dazzlingly beautiful.

But most of all, I love you because, Xia Xinghe, you are uniquely your own. You are one of a kind and irreplaceable.

Mubai confessed in his heart because he knew Xinghe was not one for lovey-dovey proclamation and the timing was not right.

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Chapter 239: Your Plan? What Plan?
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

He believed fully that after this incident his family's view of Xinghe would have a dramatic change.

Xinghe would make their impressions of her turn upside-down. She would use her capability to show that the girl who could do nothing was just a phase in the past.

No one would look down on her again.

It would stem their prejudice and grievances towards her.

However, as stated previously, all of this wasn't Xinghe's aim. The only reason she did all of this was for their son's custody.

Mubai turned to meet the eyes of the people who were staring daggers at Xinghe and he felt sorry for them.

They thought they would at least elicit a response out of Xinghe with their condescending looks and barbed words, but in reality, Xinghe couldn't care less about them. Mubai shook his head at their conceit.

However, the saddest thing was the most conceited was probably his mother.

"Mubai, come here; I have something to discuss with you," his mother called him over, annoyed to see him sitting so close to Xinghe.

Tianxin who stood beside his mother also frowned at his close contact to Xinghe.

Mubai turned his gaze back to Xinghe. "I'm going back over there. I'm sorry for putting you through this inconvenience. I will try to help in any way I can," he apologized as he stood up.

Xinghe tossed him a confused look. "But I don't feel inconvenienced."

Mubai couldn't help but laugh. "Right, you're not. Regardless, I still feel the need to apologize."

He knew she didn't care about how they viewed her so their condescending insults and angry looks didn't faze her.

Regardless, his heart still panged witnessing her being mistreated like this…

However, he also knew she wouldn't want him to step in on her behalf so the only thing he could do was to step away, to spare her the looks from his mother and ex-fiancé.

Mubai looked intensely at her before taking his leave. "I'll talk to you later."

The moment he left, Xia Zhi returned to Xinghe's side. He nudged her and asked, "Sis, what were the two of you talking about? I couldn't understand a word of it."

Xinghe stared confusedly at him. "Not even a word?"

"Sis, stop giving me that look, you know I have the IQ of a normie, so it's only natural that I don't understand what the two of you discussed…" Xia Zhi complained petulantly, complete with a childish pout.

Xinghe smiled at his antics. "We didn't discuss much, but he did see through my plan."

"Your plan? What plan? How come I had no idea there's a plan?" Xia Zhi squeezed out a tear or two, certain that his IQ was really that of a normie.

Xinghe turned to meet Ruobing's smug gaze and confident smile. Xinghe smirked and said softly, "In a sentence, the plan can be described by: the bigger they are, the harder they fall!"

Xia Zhi followed his sister's gaze to see Ruobing who was gloating at them. At that moment, he seemed to understand his sister's plan.

Xinghe's plan was actually very simple. It was to create more hype around Ruobing's product.

The greater their support for Ruobing, the faster they would turn on her when the cat got out of the bag. The higher the expectation, the bigger the disappointment, human emotions were too easily manipulated sometimes.

She could have pointed out the error in Ruobing's design, impressing them all with her talent, to show that the design was hers.

But this would've been too easy of an exit for Yun Ruobing. Since she showed no signs of remorse, Xinghe decided to not spare her any kindness.

They would most likely forgive Ruobing if Xinghe came out to correct her mistake at the very beginning since no one was hurt at this point. But after the faulty device malfunctioned, Ruobing would have the wrath of the entire Xi clan to deal with. She was not getting out of this one with just an apology.

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Chapter 240: A Scream
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

After all, Ruobing was Old Madam Xi's adopted granddaughter.

They had years of memories together. The emotional ties were too deep. If Old Madam Xi was willing to forgive her, then Ruobing would escape unscathed.

Therefore, Xinghe had to set up the stage for Ruobing to fall…

She'd laid down the choices before Ruobing, either she admitted her mistake or shamelessly continued on with the knowledge of her mistake.

Obviously, Ruobing chose the latter…

Accidental mistakes were forgivable, but someone who pressed on despite knowing her own wrongdoings? Such people didn't deserve forgiveness.

Xinghe knew with certainty that the faulty product would injure Old Madam Xi and she hoped the light injury would amplify her disappointment and anger towards her adopted daughter.

In any case, even if Old Madam Xi could somehow find her heart to forgive Ruobing, her ex-husband would not…

It would be the same for the entire Xi Family.

After losing the Xi's support, it would be difficult for Ruobing to bounce back from her loss.

This was Xinghe's plan, to one-shot her enemy so they couldn't launch a comeback!

Of course, the extent of her plan went further than that.

With Ruobing as contrast, it would highlight how capable she was before the rest of them.

This would make them more inclined to hand Lin Lin over to her.

Even though there was a contract but it was ultimately verbal, lacking in assurance.

Xi Family might pull some strings behind her back to stop her from reaching her son.

However, if they started to accept her, then it would definitely be easier to her to leave with Lin Lin…

Xinghe's intricate plan was unknown to all but one… her ex-husband.

Xinghe subconsciously stole a glance at him.

To be fair, Xinghe was appreciative of his understanding and kindness. The fact that he didn't expose or impede her plan was the biggest help he could ever give her.

She thought of ways to repay him but it only made her feel guilty for taking his son away from him…

…

The surgery lasted for two hours.

When Old Madam Xi was wheeled out of door, everyone crowded around her.

Lu Qi announced happily, "The surgery was a great success. Old Madam Xi is in perfect physical condition, she just needs some rest for now. The operation was a great success!"

"This is wonderful news!" Elder Xi was the first one to cheer.

Happiness spread across the crowd like a wave.

Ruobing was naturally the happiest of all, even happier than winning the lottery in fact.

She turned to look at Xinghe immediately, the smugness and taunting in her eyes on full display.

She no longer feared Xinghe.

With the successful conclusion of the operation, there was nothing she needed to worry about anymore!

Even if Xia Xinghe produces the evidence now, it will be too late. Nothing is able to stop me from achieving my dreams now!

Ruobing could barely contain herself. However, instead of sending Old Madam Xi to the resting bay like everyone else, she strode confidently towards Xinghe.

She stopped before her and turned her nose up to say, "Xia Xinghe, the result is out, victory is mine and you lost! Where is your confidence now, the capability you speak of? Look at you, you're just a loser, a good-for-nothing loser! You hear me? You've lost… to me, the person that you plotted so hard against! Serves you right, b*tch!"

Xinghe stood up stoically and replied with only one question, "Do you seriously think you've won?"

"Of course, the result is clear as day! If I'm not the winner, who you think is the winner? You? Don't make laugh! The winner is me! Me-"

Right at that moment, a blood-curdling scream pierced the hospital air.

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
Releasing tomorrow's bonus chapter today because I want to demonstrate what is a cliff. Muahahahhaa. Also Happy Winter Solstice~

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Chapter 241: Explosion!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The room started to panic and the panic was reflected in Ruobing's heart.

"What's happening?"

"Old Madam Xi, hang in there! Please tell us what's wrong!"

"Doctor, quick, someone get the doctor!" Grandfather Xi roared.

Ruobing turned around stiffly and saw Old Madam Xi, who was just wheeled out of surgery, being rushed back in.

Doctors and nurses crowded around Old Madam Xi who was moaning painfully on the gurney while the rest of the family members hounded the doctors nervously with questions…

The scene seemed to have frozen over in front of Ruobing's eyes while the cries for help repeated incessantly in her eyes. It was a nightmarish sensation.

She stared at the situation dumbly, her brain unable to process anything.

What the f*ck happened?

A bad feeling twisted at her heart…

"No idea what happened? It's simple, you've failed!" Xinghe's clear voice rang up beside her.

Ruobing whipped her head around and glared at her. "Fail, me? Impossible, I can't fail, this is not right!"

Ruobing shook her head vehemently as if to clear her mind, then she dashed towards Old Madam Xi.

No, this can't be. I am not a failure!

After shoving a few people out of her way, she came face-to-face with Old Madam Xi who was grimacing in pain and her artificial arm that had blown up!

The arm that she designed had exploded!

"Yun Ruobing, what is happening here? Explain yourself!" Elder Xi glared angrily at her.

Under the scrutiny of his fiery gaze, Ruobing stammered out an answer, "I, I have no idea why…"

"Isn't this your design? How can you have no idea what happened‽" somebody else in the crowd questioned.

"That's right! Your product is a death trap! It exploded minutes after installation, how will you take responsibility if something happens to Old Madam Xi?"

"If anything happens to Old Madam Xi, we will never forgive you!"

Ruobing's face was drained of color and her fingers were shaking uncontrollably.

She obviously wasn't expecting the retribution to come so swiftly and severely…

"Everyone, stop fighting," Lu Qi interrupted them harshly, "The artificial arm has exploded and the explosion, although small, has harmed her nervous system. We need to conduct a surgery now to remove the arm. We need a signature of consent from her family member this instant!"

"I'll give you the signature later, please save her!" Elder Xi declared with his eyes darting between his ex-wife's arm wound and pasty face.

Lu Qi nodded and had his team of surgeons prepare for surgery.

The moment the door to the surgery hall closed, Elder Xi turned on Ruobing fiercely, "What happened with your product? Didn't you have it tested already‽"

When they were happily pushing Old Madam Xi to the sick bay, the artificial arm suddenly exploded, sending them into a complete chaos.

Old Madam Xi started groaning in pain like she was dying…

Elder Xi was ready to tear Yun Ruobing apart after witnessing his ex-wife's sufferings!

A cluster of angry eyes glared at Ruobing, waiting for her to give them an acceptable explanation.

Ruobing went cold from head to toe. With a shaking voice, she explained, "Grandfather Xi, I really have no clue what happened, I swear it has nothing to do with me… It was working just fine during internal testing, I have no idea what went wrong."

"The thing is your design; how can you not know what went wrong‽" Mr. Xi grilled.

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
Sorry about the late update. Migraines.

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Chapter 242: Burning Shame
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Even Mrs. Xi was giving her the cold shoulder. "Well, Yun Ruobing, we're ready to hear your explanation. Why did this happen?"

"I, but I really don't know, everything should go just fine…" Ruobing stammered on, her body spoke of one emotion, despair.

"But how can you not know?" Mrs. Xi pressed.

"Of course she doesn't know what's wrong with the product, the design is not hers to begin with," Xinghe's clear voice cut through the crowd.

They turned towards her immediately—

She was walking their way in an unhurried manner, her confidence silencing the crowd.

Ruobing also looked her way and her eyes widened with comprehension.

She finally understood what went wrong. Xinghe had told them since the very beginning: the design was a fake!

That meant the arm she was holding had to be the real one!

Ruobing broke out in cold sweat knowing the truth was going to be revealed soon.

If she was feeling panicky before, now… she felt the sky was falling.

The only option she had left was to pray that Xinghe did not expose her.

But was that possible?

Xinghe's next sentence pierced her already weakened heart. "Didn't I say she stole my fake design? So it's only natural that her final product is faulty."

At that moment, the Xi's feelings were incredibly complicated.

Xinghe had warned them that the product was faulty but they chose to not believe her and accuse her of stealing the design that was originally hers.

With everything that had happened, almost all of them had seen the truth…

Their faces burned with shame.

After all, it was because of their decision to side with Ruobing that this tragedy happened!

"No, the design is mine, I didn't steal it!" Ruobing's defense tumbled out of her mouth. At this juncture, there was nothing else she could do but to stick to her original story, "Grandfather Xi, I swear the design is mine but I sincerely have no clue what went wrong. This is my careless mistake and I will improve on it; it will be better next time, I promise!"

"What a joke, you don't even know where your product went wrong, and yet you still had the courage to claim the design as yours," Xinghe laughed as she narrowed her eyes warningly at Ruobing.

"Even at a time like this, you still refuse to admit your mistake? If not for your greed and selfishness, Old Madame Xi could have avoided this tragedy completely. I'll have you know, her nervous system has been ruined by the contained explosion and that might cause her to be unable to get fitted with another artificial limb from now on!"

What…

Ruobing's eyes swam with fear, freezing her entire body to the spot.

How could the side-effect be so serious?

"Yun Ruobing, take my advice, and admit your wrongdoing before things get worse!" Xinghe stared at her and said emotionlessly.

Ruobing snapped into focus and shook her head continuously. "I did nothing wrong, the design is mine; I didn't steal it. Xia Xinghe, I will not allow you to pin this on me!"

"If the design is as you said 'yours', then tell us, what exactly went wrong with it‽" Mubai suddenly added, "If you can't then the design is definitely not yours!"

Ruobing was cornered. Others followed Mubai's example.

"Mubai is right. If the design is yours, you have to know what went wrong with it."

"Yun Ruobing, we don't have all day to waste with you. Get on with it, tell us what exactly is the mistake. Or… have you lied to us and the design is really not yours?" Mrs. Xi questioned pointedly.

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Chapter 243: A Will That Would Not Bend
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Ruobing was defenseless against the unrelenting interrogations.

That should come as no surprise since she wasn't the original creator to begin with…

She tried to pull an excuse out of thin air but she didn't even know where to begin.

"It's impossible for me to come up with a diagnosis now. You have to give me time to conduct more internal testing and analysis, but after I identify the problem, I assure it will not happen again, so please give me some more time…" Ruobing tried her best to explain.

Xinghe laughed out loud from behind her. "Give you a million years and you will not come up with the correct diagnosis."

"Xia Xinghe, stop trying to put the blame on me for this accident! It could have happened to anyone!" Ruobing screamed with anger.

"That's where you're wrong because this wouldn't have happened with my design because I know what went wrong and you don't."

Ruobing stared at her with utter disbelief and Xinghe's earlier words rang in her mind.

My capability is the best proof there is!

Ruobing finally understood what Xinghe meant by that.

If Xinghe could solve the problem that stumped her, it was the perfect proof that Xinghe was better than her.

If that was the case, Xinghe couldn't have stolen her design.

After all, it made no sense for her to steal from someone dumber than her.

My capability is the best proof there is!

The proclamation sounded once more in Ruobing's head and the ironclad nature of the argument weighed down on her…

For that moment, all of Ruobing's fear sniffed out of existence because it was overwhelmed by a burning jealousy! Jealous of Xinghe's natural talent.

"You know wherein the issue lies?" Elder Xi asked Xinghe.

"That's right," Xinghe nodded and replied confidently.

Elder Xi elaborated, "Okay, I will give you a chance to convince us. If you can do it, then I will believe the design is yours!'

Ruobing's eyelids twitched slightly…

She needed to stop Xinghe from speaking but… how?

Before she could come up with a solution, Xinghe blew her out of the water, "The problem lies with the arm's neural center. When I first started the design, I knew the neural center is going to be a problem because the structure, while intricate, is not durable. The mass of nerve impulses will overload the center very quickly. Although I really didn't expect it to explode, that is beyond my expectation. Of course, I also didn't expect someone would steal my design and claim it as her own. The reason my product took longer than Ruobing's to complete is because I needed more time to tweak the design of the neural center. The improved design is more durable and more compact…"

Even though Xinghe had kept her explanation as simple as possible, it still confused quite a number of people.

Regardless, it didn't stop others from believing the reality that the design was hers.

With a little post-surgery analysis, they would know whether she was lying or not.

And since Xinghe wasn't afraid to lay everything out in the open for them to double-check her words, it was more likely than not that the design really was hers.

This meant that Ruobing had stolen her design!

Compared to Ruobing's confidence which was layered with arrogance, Xinghe's natural confidence was more convincing.

She was doing a scientific explanation but, in that moment, she looked like a star on stage, dazzling everyone with her performance.

Some were even staring at her with gaping mouths.

Mubai's gaze was glued onto her; Xinghe's presence eclipsed every other one of his senses.

Others saw Xinghe's confidence and formidability but he saw the unbendable will in her, burning forever like a phoenix's fire.

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Chapter 244: He Loves Her!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

There was nothing that could evade the erosion of time.

From the celestials in space to human relationships, friendship, love, everything would disintegrate with the passage of time…

However, Mubai had found an anomaly, a will that would not bend.

As long as Xinghe had a breath in her, her will would keep on shining like a mesmerizing pearl.

And just like a pearl, it was to be treasured. For Mubai, this was the most precious thing he had ever encountered in his life, the one thing he had been looking for…

Even though he knew Xinghe's inner will might not hold much regard for him, he was willing to spend the entirety of his life to protect it.

He had found his goal in life, which was to be her guardian.

He knew she didn't need it but it won't stop him from trying…

In Mubai's eyes, Xinghe was positively glowing; the others only saw a fraction of what Mubai saw. They were impressed by Xinghe's beauty that seemed to glow from within.

Even Mrs. Xi was impressed by Xinghe. A pang of regret cropped up in her heart. Maybe what she did back then was a mistake…

The brighter Xinghe shone, the deeper Tianxin's jealousy went.

The way Mubai looked at Xinghe was forever imprinted in her mind.

She saw a deep well of love in his eyes. She was certain of the fact that he loved her!

Not a puppy-love crush but one between soul mates!

This realization clawed at what remained of her sanity. Xia Xinghe had the one thing she yearned deeply for in her life.

Jealousy grew like briars and vines, covering Tianxin's already ugly heart.

Her inner demon was slowly reawakening…

A flash of psychopathic murderous intent flashed across her eyes as she glared fiendishly at Xinghe.

As if feeling the malicious gaze on her, Xinghe's eyes fell temporarily on Tianxin. She also ended her explanation then, "In conclusion, the problem is with the neural center. If you don't believe me, feel free to have someone check for the validity of my explanation. Of course, if you need further proof that the design is mine, I can go over the theoretical details of every single section of the design. Moreover, I have a more detailed design paper in my computer."

"That won't be necessary, I believe you!" Elder Xi announced firmly, "I believe the design is yours and I wish to apologize for not believing you earlier."

"Grandfather Xi—" Ruobing screamed in shock and fear, "How can you believe the outsider just like that? I didn't steal her design, I really didn't…"

"Enough!" Elder Xi cut her off rudely, he looked at Ruobing with bitter disappointment, "I believed you before because I considered you family; I won't let my judgement be clouded like that anymore! To be fair, I will give you a final chance to redeem yourself. If you can explain the theoretical basis behind each of the section of your design like Xinghe offered to do, then I will believe the design is yours!"

"…" Ruobing was silent because obviously she couldn't.

Her speechlessness was the perfect proof that the design wasn't hers.

Elder Xi lectured her vehemently, "So it is true. How could you lie to Old Madam Xi who practically raised you? Did you not consider the consequence before you threw her under the bus‽"

"This goes to show that we may know a person's exterior but not her heart!" The crowd rallied against her for toying with their trust in her.

"Why did you lie to us and mother? Have you no heart‽" Mrs. Xi questioned angrily. She still was a long way away from accepting Xinghe, but at the end of the day, she was still a Xi.

She couldn't forgive Ruobing for lying to them and causing Old Madam Xi to be injured.

Her husband was equally inflamed. "Yun Ruobing, mother has been nothing but nice to you and cared for you her whole life, so how can you practically use her as a test subject knowing fully well the design you stole was fake? You should have come clean when Xinghe warned us of its dangers! We truly sided with the wrong person!"

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Chapter 245: No Longer a Xi
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"She has no heart because profit is all she sees! She could even sell out Old Madam Xi, who raised her, for the sake of achieving her personal gain. Of course she has no heart!"

"Pity Old Madam Xi who loved her so, she must be heart-broken being betrayed by her own adopted granddaughter…"

"We've raised a wolf to bite us on the backside!"

As Xinghe had expected, the Xi's were quick to turn on Ruobing.

Ruobing's betrayal of their trust lit up their anger like a match thrown into a pool of oil.

The belief they had in Ruobing from earlier converted directly into anger.

Other than that, the Xi's were a proud family so they would not suffer being played a fool.

Furthermore, Ruobing's actions had injured the matriarch of the family. That was unforgivable.

Almost in an instant, everyone channeled their fury at Ruobing.

Elder Xi was seething. "Yun Ruobing, you no longer qualify to have the Xi name. From this moment onwards, you are no longer part of the Xi Family and banned from entering Xi grounds!"

"Grandfather Xi is right, you don't deserve to bear the Xi name!"

"No…" Ruobing was mortified. She didn't expect things would be so bad.

Grandfather Xi disowned her.

"Grandfather Xi, I know I did wrong, please just forgive me this time!" Ruobing crumbled to the floor with fear and crawled to Elder Xi's side to beg him.

"Grandfather Xi, I really did not do this on purpose, I was too afraid that you'd chase me out if I didn't finish the design. I feared I'd no longer be valued. This was my only chance to repay Old Madam for her kindness. I know I made a mistake, please just forgive me this once, I swear I will not repeat it…"

To save herself from the fate of being kicked out, Ruobing begged and begged but the Xi family could be mighty heartless when they wanted to be.

If Ruobing didn't trick them from the beginning, they would have forgiven her.

It was incumbent upon her to admit her mistake when Xinghe confronted her about her plagiarism and warned that her product was faulty. The fact that she didn't said a lot about her personality.

She was someone who would sacrifice anyone for her own profit, even if that someone was the person who practically raised her.

Some people were deserving of forgiveness but definitely not people like her.

Grandfather Xi had seen through her ploy, he understood keeping her around would only be a lurking peril.

Grandfather Xi kicked her grabbing hands away and said, "It is already kindness on my part for not sending you to the police! I will not allow you to stay in the family! Security, toss her out!"

Two security guards rushed over to pull Ruobing off the ground and drag her away…

Ruobing struggled with all her might. "I'm not leaving, Grandfather Xi, please forgive me, I don't have anywhere else to go but here. Please, Grandfather Xi, don't chase me away! I want to stay!"

Elder Xi's face remained unmoved.

After the security guards dragged Ruobing for a distance, Ruobing finally gave up on her struggle.

She was pulled along limply, as if her body had gone offline. Her brain simply couldn't process the reality of what happened.

Minutes ago, she was high on top, success within her grasp.

Everyone showered her with praises and love…

She was valued and needed, she finally found a place where she was not only needed but wanted.

She was on top of the world.

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Chapter 246: Death Incoming
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The scabs that had formed over the wound from her childhood abandonment were torn open violently. Feelings of insignificance dragged Ruobing into a deep chasm.

She projected the self-hatred outwards and it latched onto an easy target, Xia Xinghe!

After all, it was Xinghe who stood in her way when she was one step away from glory and fame.

I deserve all the money and influence, love and admiration, I deserve it all! But why… why is it all being taken away from me? I was so close… Why‽

Of course… it's because of Xia Xinghe! That woman ruined everything the moment she appeared! This is all her fault! It was Xinghe who stood in the way of me getting what I deserve! Everything is her fault, it has to be!

With nothing else to lose, Ruobing lashed out at Xinghe, screaming like a wild woman, "Xia Xinghe, karma will eventually come for you for hurting me unjustly like this! Don't ever let your guard down because you'll die a horrible death soon enough! Hahaha, justice will be served sooner than you expect…"

"Shut her up!" an incensed Mubai firmly ordered.

For some reasons, he felt insulted even though Ruobing's tirade was directed at Xinghe. He lost his composure.

After hearing his order, the security instantly clamped their hands over Ruobing's mouth and dragged her away as she started to struggle again.

Xinghe was uncharacteristically shaken.

Ruobing's curses, and the despair in her eyes when she did so, unsettled her…

It reminded her too much of her incident with Wushuang at the hospital.

"Don't mind the words of people like her. I will make sure she disappears from City T and will never make an appearance in your life again," Mubai sensed the change in Xinghe's mood and consoled her kindly.

Xinghe turned to look at him and replied, "It's fine, I didn't really take it to heart."

However, for some reason, she could feel death staring at her…

At that moment, the door to the surgery hall burst open.

"The surgery's over!"

Everyone's attention was immediately drawn to the voice.

Elder Xi was the first to accost Lu Qi who strode out of it. "How's my wife's situation?"

Lu Qi replied with a smile, "Don't worry, Old Madam Xi is doing just fine now. The artificial arm has been successfully removed and she'll be good as new after a few days of rest at the hospital."

Elder Xi sighed in relief. "Thank God she is fine."

"However, Old Madam Xi is still unconscious. I suggest we give her time to rest. Truth be told, the accident this time was incredibly dangerous, if the explosion was a bit larger, it would have burnt the nervous system in Old Madam Xi's arms. Thankfully, the damage sustained was fairly minimal…" Lu Qi continued to explain.

The crowd's anger towards Ruobing was reignited.

She not only plagiarized other people's design but allowed them to use it with the knowledge that it might hurt her own adopted mother. There were no words to describe a person like her.

Thankfully, at the end of the day, the problem was identified and culprit dealt with.

Old Madam Xi was wheeled to the VIP sick bay and Xinghe's artificial arm was left at the hospital.

Elder Xi wanted to have some experts to take a good look at it to prevent the previous incident from happening. After making sure there was no problem, they would use her design.

Lu Qi was also briefed on the fact that the real creator of the perfected artificial human limb was Xinghe.

He was very interested in Xinghe's design and admired her capability.

"Who would have thought that Miss Xia was be so capable. Your design, I'm sure, will bring great happiness to many people. This is a great undertaking. Miss Xia, you are incredible," Lu Qi praised sincerely.

Elder Xi nodded in agreement. "Doctor Lu is right, Xinghe, you are indeed incredible. I would like to again extend my sincerest apology for doubting the design is not yours and your capability. You've truly impressed me this time."

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Chapter 247: No One Will Stand in the Way of Your Marriage
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mr. Xi also heaped upon the praises.

Even Mrs. Xi's attitude towards her had mellowed considerably.

However, she still found it difficult to humble herself and admit her previous prejudice. She added softly, "Xinghe, your design is indeed impressive. Well done."

The entire Xi family completely changed the way they treated Xinghe. They were all nice to her now.

However, Xinghe's expression remained unchanged, as collected as ever, further proof that she really wasn't there to suck up to the Xi's.

"Elder Xi, after you ensure there is no mistake with my design, I hope you will honor our verbal contract," Xinghe told Elder Xi.

The crowd was stunned.

Then, they remembered the only reason Xinghe even went through all these troubles was to fight for Lin Lin's custody.

Grandfather Xi promised her because he thought she wouldn't be able to keep her end of the bargain.

And even if she did, he would have a way to maneuver out of it.

Elder Xi laughed suddenly and suggested brazenly, "Xinghe, just call me Grandfather Xi from now on. Actually, instead of taking Lin Lin away, have you considered getting back together with Mubai? I assure you no one will stand in the way of the remarriage! You have my word!"

Mrs. Xi was startled but she knew it was not her place to say anything.

Xinghe had accomplished Grandfather Xi's lifelong wish. With such a great talent, there was no way any Xi could object to the remarriage.

In Xi Family, Grandfather Xi made all the decisions. Therefore, if one was able to endear him or herself to Grandfather Xi or his weakness, Old Madam Xi, then he or she could practically lord over the entire Xi Family.

Xinghe had done exactly that.

If Grandfather Xi allowed them to remarry, who would dare to object?

Furthermore, Xinghe had proven her worth. She was more than capable of bearing the Xi name.

But… what about Tianxin?

Mrs. Xi turned to look at Tianxin but the other woman had a blank expression, completely unreadable.

Mrs. Xi then turned to her son and realized he had been looking at Xinghe with utmost kindness and gentleness.

This son of hers had completely fallen this time.

Mrs. Xi couldn't help but think, Maybe it is not a bad idea for them to remarry if that is what he wants…

Everyone thought the same, well almost everyone.

Xinghe rejected him softly, "My focus now is to raise Lin Lin for a few years, I have no interest to pursue anything beyond that."

"But…" Elder Xi tried to convince her but was interrupted by Mubai.

"Grandfather, let's respect her decision. I also agree to have her take care of Lin Lin for a few years. A little independence away from the Xi Family might be good for him. After all, Xinghe's capability is now clear to all, I'm sure she'll take exceptional care of Lin Lin. There is no downside to this."

Mubai's deep support for Xinghe surprised everyone, even Xinghe herself…

She didn't expect him to respect her independence and ideals so much.

Her impression of Mubai became slightly better.

Since Mubai said so, Elder Xi didn't pursue the remarriage.

This grandson of his seemed to have a plan of his own. Maybe he was trying to win Xinghe back without the pressure of the Xi family…

Regardless, Elder Xi knew Mubai would not give up Lin Lin just like that, but based on what he was witnessing, it seemed like Mubai wasn't going to give up on Xinghe either.

Well, since the young'uns have plans of their own, an old bag of bones like myself better not meddle.

"Alright, after we make sure the arm is working soundly, you are free to take Lin Lin any time you wish," Elder Xi promised with a nod but not before leveling Mubai a threatening gaze.

Sonny, if you don't somehow fix this, I'm going to skin you alive!

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Chapter 248: Leaving This Place (End of the Artificial Limb Arc)
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The sun had set when Xinghe left the hospital.

Xia Zhi was beside her, reminiscing about everything that had happened that day.

His sister not only completed the artificial human limb, but also exposed Ruobing, face-slapped her to hell and back, and even gained the Xi family's admiration and trust…

The Xi family that once looked down on her finally approved and accepted her.

So much so that they wanted Xinghe to remarry Xi Mubai!

Who could have known so many things would happen in a day?

Xia Zhi was still having trouble wrapping his head around it.

"Sis, I still can't believe what happened today. You're too impressive!" Xia Zhi commented as he drove them home, "You've even managed to bring the entire Xi Family to their knees with your capability."

The more he thought about it, the happier he became.

"Now that they finally know what you're capable of, let's see who dares to look down on you now! Sis, you'd better not simply agree to take back that Xi Mubai. They have to show more sincerity before you can even consider that option."

"I will not remarry," Xinghe answered softly.

Xia Zhi was slightly startled before nodding in agreement. "It's good that you don't remarry. Go find someone better, better than that Xi Mubai!"

"I will not marry either."

"What?" Xia Zhi turned to look at her in shock. "Sis, how can you not marry? Sis, you need love in your life, I couldn't bear to see you ending up all alone."

"Zhi, follow me overseas," Xinghe said out of nowhere.

"Overseas, why?" Xia Zhi was caught by surprise.

"I wish to spend a few years overseas to see the world. Will you like to come with me? Of course, we'll bring uncle along," Xinghe explained while staring at him seriously.

"But why overseas?" Xia Zhi didn't quite get it.

"To get away from here."

Xia Zhi filled in the blanks himself.

His sister had suffered a lot in Hwa Xia. She'd survived murder attempts, multiple other grievances, and it was where her father had died. The only reason she stayed was to fight for Lin Lin. Now that she accomplished that, it was not so surprising to find out she wanted to start anew with a change of scenery.

The place probably reminded her too much of her sad past.

"Sis, you serious about this?" Xia Zhi asked to confirm.

Xinghe nodded, "Yes, after taking Lin Lin, I will fly overseas. I've made up my mind."

"Okay, we'll definitely follow you!" Xia Zhi accepted the offer without hesitation or any other questions.

Xinghe was touched. "Thank you."

Xia Zhi frowned unhappily. "Sis, we're family, what are you thanking me for? Makes me feel like a stranger all of a sudden."

Xinghe finally smiled. "You're right, we're a family. In fact, I feel very fortunate to have you and uncle as my family."

Alas, she was unable to accompany them for long.

If possible, she wanted to spend the rest of her life around her family, but… fate had decided otherwise.

With the decision made, Xinghe started preparing the moment she reached home.

The company would be left for Xiao Mo to manage.

Xinghe would not intervene no matter the direction he wanted the company to advance in.

She had more than enough cash on her hands that made leaving the country an easy feat. With a little packing and she would be ready to go.

Chengwu was excited to leave the country with her when he was asked.

Xinghe had them promise to keep this a secret and both of Chengwu and Xia Zhi agreed.

Now, she only needed to wait for Old Madam Xi to have the artificial arm reattached and she would be free to pick up Lin Lin. After that, it was time to leave.

The surgery was scheduled to be in three days' time.

Xinghe was anxious to leave.

Other than her immediate family, no one was privy to this plan of hers.

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Chapter 249: Hello, Miss Xia
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Of course, Mubai didn't know about this either. He didn't know she was going to leave the country.

That night, he called her to invite her for lunch the day after.

After she rejected him outright, he quickly added, "Lin Lin will be coming as well. He said he misses you a lot."

"Of course, I'll be there," Xinghe agreed the moment Lin Lin's name was brought up.

Xinghe felt she shouldn't deprive Lin Lin of the chance to have a real family meal. She was dying so she didn't want Lin Lin to have this regret.

Mubai was rather ashamed that he had to use his son as leverage but that was quickly overshadowed by happiness when Xinghe said yes.

A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step; as long as he persevered, he believed that one day, he would be able to get Xinghe to remarry him.

Mubai extensively prepared for their lunch date.

Xinghe on the other hand, treated it like any other day.

In fact, she even had time to drop by the hospital early that morning.

Lu Qi said he had something to discuss with her. Xinghe assumed it was to do with the artificial limb technology.

Xinghe was led by a nurse to a meeting room. When she walked in, Lu Qi and a few doctors were already waiting.

They were happy to see her. They treated her with courtesy and respect.

Xinghe returned the same courtesy. She answered all of their questions truthfully and patiently.

When the meeting was over, the room of doctors realized she is as capable as they heard. She was especially gifted in the field of mathematics.

After all, perfection of the artificial limb technology required a whole host of intricate algorithms to complete.

Xinghe's incredible talent coupled with her unlikely young age earned the doctors' admiration.

Lu Qi even asked her out for lunch when the meeting was over.

Xinghe rejected his offer. "I already have a lunch planned, sorry but we'll have to take a rain check."

Lu Qi nodded understandingly. "Alright, I will hold you to your promise and invite you next time. You're leaving, right? Come, I'll walk you out."

Hopefully, there will be a next time…

Lu Qi treated Xinghe like a true gentleman, considerate and gracious.

In actuality, Xinghe had a good impression of him too because he was truly a good doctor.

Xinghe heard many good things about him like how he devoted his life to the advancement of medicine.

He was affiliated with Doctors without Borders and was deeply involved in international aid.

Xinghe admired his selflessness and his drive to do go for human society in general…

If not for her impending doom, she perhaps would have stayed to help Lu Qi with his medical research.

"Doctor Lu…" A woman greeted Lu Qi when he and Xinghe were walking down the corridor towards the hospital entrance.

She was coming their way in a wheelchair.

The handicapped woman was young, perhaps in her early twenties. She had an interesting presence about her.

Lu Qi saw her and made some introductions. "This is one of my patients. Her surname is Xia as well. Perhaps you two are extended family?"

Xinghe took a look at the other woman and shook her head, "No, I don't think I know her."

The other Miss Xia replied with a smile, "But from now onwards, we do know each other. Nice to make your acquaintance, Miss Xia."

"The pleasure is mine," Xinghe responded politely but a feeling of apprehension rose in her heart.

For some reason, she didn't like the way the other Miss Xia kept looking her up and down.

However, Xinghe didn't fixate on it. Perhaps the other woman was socially awkward; regardless, Xinghe didn't like to meddle in other people's affairs. She turned to Lu Qi and said, "Since you have a patient waiting then I shall show myself out. See you next time."

"Alright, goodbye."

Xinghe turned to leave but she could feel the other Miss Xia's gaze trailing her all the way until she turned the corner and left the hospital…

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Chapter 250: Kidnapped
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

As Xinghe got into her car, she received a phone call from Mubai.

"We've reached the restaurant. Are you on your way?" Mubai asked in a low voice.

"Just leaving, I'll be there in a bit."

"Alright, drive safely." Mubai closed the phone with a smile. Lin Lin, who sat across him, was fixing the bow-tie on his neck.

The little guy had an expensive dark suit on, and had even gelled his hair…

His waxed shoes were practically gleaming. He looked like a little prince.

Mubai couldn't help but laugh. This was his lunch date, how come his son seemed to treat it more ceremoniously than he did?

Straightening his custom made white suit, Mubai took the chance to poke fun at Lin Lin, "This is only a normal lunch, why are you all dressed up? Nervous?"

Lin Lin gave him a side-eye before launching a scathing retort. "Daddy, you're one to talk!"

"…" Perhaps he shouldn't have told him beforehand they were having lunch with Xinghe…

Back at the hospital, Xinghe had run into a bit of a trouble.

Her car had a flat tire. Earlier, the car was fine because she drove it to the hospital.

This is too much of a coincidence. Someone must have done it on purpose.

Xinghe decided to have it checked out later. She couldn't miss the lunch with her son so she quickly hailed a cab.

The moment she got into the cab, an arm pushed out from behind and she could feel the cold steel of a dagger on her neck!

…

The taxi soon left the city and entered the remote countryside.

Xinghe's eyes were covered with a black cloth and the dagger never once left her neck.

She gave her full cooperation throughout and didn't once resist.

The two kidnappers were satisfied with her obedience.

Finally, the car stopped in front of an abandoned workshop.

Xinghe was dragged roughly out of the car and shoved into the building. The moment she landed with a thud on the dirty floor, she heard a loud bang behind her.

Xinghe pulled off the cloth on her eyes and realized the kidnappers had closed the door.

She went to pull on it, the door didn't even budge. It was locked from the outside.

"Who are you?" Xinghe questioned the two men on the other side of the door calmly, her voice didn't even shake one bit, "Who ordered you to do this?"

"Someone who you owe a debt to!" One of the men answered viciously.

"Debt?"

"That's right! You yourself know what kind of wrong you've done, so we're here today to collect his debt!"

"His? Who is this his?" Xinghe replied self-assuredly, "There are so many people I've wronged, you might need to be a little more specific."

"Since the dead tells no tale, I guess it wouldn't harm to tell you! He is our brother Chui Ming. You wrongly accused him and sent him to jail, so we're exacting vengeance on his behalf!"

"You're Chui Ming's men? Impossible, he has nothing to offer you and as you said, he's in prison," Xinghe argued back.

The other man chuckled, "B*tch, we want to exact revenge for our brother because we love him that much! Anyway, today will be your last day on Earth! Care to guess how you're going to die?"

Xinghe turned to inspect her surroundings before answering, "I have no time for games. But I can assure you, if you don't kill me today, it'll be your deaths tomorrow!"

"The b*tch really does have a mouth on her! But don't you worry. We'll make sure that you die a horrible death!"

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
Over the next 12 days, the editor for 100CEO (millman97) will be releasing the chapters so the release times will differ.

This is the first bonus chapter of our Christmas releases and is sponsored by a partridge in a pear tree.

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Chapter 251: Two Hungry Wolfhounds
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The two men left after they'd finished threatening her.

Right then, Xinghe's cell phone rang.

During the trip there, the kidnappers didn't do anything to her. They didn't even confiscate her phone.

Either they are incredibly stupid or these people are up to something.

The two men didn't act like kidnappers, they were too amateurish.

Xinghe scoffed and answered her phone.

It was from Mubai.

It had been 30 minutes since their last call and he was getting worried because Xinghe hadn't arrived.

"Are you close?" Mubai asked in a low voice, "Too much traffic?"

"I was kidnapped," Xinghe said directly.

"What‽" Mubai tried his best not to scream in the restaurant, "Where are you now?"

Lin Lin across from him saw his reaction and started to get antsy in his seat. His pair of black eyes was fixated on Mubai.

"I'm in some sort of an abandoned steel warehouse outside of town, about a 15 minute drive away from First Hospital," Xinghe explained calmly, "Start from the hospital and drive west for 10 minutes then you'll hear the chiming of a bell tower nearby. 5 more minutes of driving after that and you'll be around where I am. I'm now trapped inside some kind of workshop. The kidnappers are gone for now, I'm assuming they're preparing some kind of plan to kill me."

"F*ck!" Mubai cursed as he sprung up from his seat.

His anger was palpable and his eyes shone with the intent to kill.

Fury could barely begin to describe his emotion at that moment. Someone was targeting Xinghe's life!

Other than that, he was also a bit angry at Xinghe. How can she be so calm at a time like this? Isn't she a tiny bit worried about her personal safety?

Mubai ran out of the restaurant, the fact that his son was still there completely eclipsed his mind.

"Who kidnapped you and what's their angle‽ Tell them as long as they don't hurt you, we can promise them anything!"

Xinghe inspected the empty workshop more closely and replied, "Their angle is to come for my life. They said they're Chui Ming's men…"

Bang! Before Xinghe could finish the sentence, the door was shoved open and two shadows leaped into the room.

One of them barked and charged viciously at her.

Xinghe jumped out of its way in a panic and her phone fell out of her hand.

She truly evaded death by the breadth of a hair. One second slower and she would have been tackled to the ground.

After the evasion, she didn't stop to take a breath, she started running.

The two giant wolfhounds chased after her crazily…

The workshop's door was once again closed and the men outside the door started laughing. "A little heads up, the two of them hadn't been fed for a week so I'm sure they can't wait to sink their teeth into you! How fortunate, since you'll get to see yourself being eaten alive!"

Xinghe snapped into focus and jumped up the wall, grabbing the window grille that was about 2 meters off the ground.

However, right at that moment, one of wolfhounds clamped its jaw over the bottom of Xinghe's pants!

"Get off—" Xinghe cursed as she kicked on its head. The moment the wolfhound loosened its bite, Xinghe clambered up the steel grille. Her body was hanging off the wall supported solely by the strength of her arms.

The two starving wolfhounds jumped at her continuously, trying to get a bite of her feet.

Xinghe's two feet were on the window grille but the window was glued shut and the spaces between the grille bars were extremely small, giving her barely enough space to put her feet and balance herself.

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Chapter 252: Feral
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

This couldn't go on for long because Xinghe's upper body strength wouldn't allow it.

The inside of the warehouse had nothing but the dust on the floor. She couldn't find any high surface to use as leverage.

Even with the fastest speed, Mubai would need ten to fifteen minutes to get there.

She couldn't hold out for that long…

The two hungry wolfhounds beneath her had entered a feral stage. Several times, they narrowly missed her ankles.

In their eyes, Xinghe was like a piece of delicious meat that was taunting them.

She knew if she was bitten and dragged down, that would probably be the end of her.

She might know some self-defense skills but she doubted she could take down two large feral dogs.

Xinghe gritted her teeth and punched heavily on the glass window. It shattered with a resounding clang.

The sudden loud noise spooked the two dogs that they took several involuntarily steps back.

Xinghe made use of the opportunity to leap down with a shard of glass in her hand. The moment she landed, the two wolfhounds charged at her.

Xinghe didn't evade. As one of the dogs' jaws prepared to clamp down on her neck, she stabbed the glass shard into its eye!

The dog fell to the floor with a deathly wail. It then rolled around the floor crazily.

Xinghe didn't have time to deal with the other wolfhound which successfully chomped down on her calf!

Xinghe raised her other leg and kicked violently at the wolfhound. The dog was eventually sent flying but not before tearing out a piece of Xinghe's lower calf. Almost immediately, Xinghe's pants were dyed a bloody red.

However, adrenaline had numbed her pain receptors. She picked up another glass shard from the floor and pounced on the injured wolfhound.

The glass shard was aimed at its other eye…

Xinghe exerted Herculean force into her jab to make sure she hit skull so much so that the shard itself had pierced into the ball of her palm. When she finally pulled back, the dog stumbled away aimlessly, lashing at the air around it before crumbling to the floor with heavy breathing.

Xinghe realized it had gone blind and was dying…

The other wolfhound seemed to be startled by her viciousness and stood from a distance away howling at her but was hesitant to get closer.

Xinghe was physically drained after that tussle.

She suffered quite a number of injuries on her body as well.

However, she still stood up calmly, a glass shard dripping with blood in her hand.

The blood was a mixture of the dog's and hers.

The potent smell of blood excited the wolfhound but it was cautious to not charge blindly at Xinghe. Instead, it circled Xinghe patiently, waiting for its break.

As the wolfhound circled Xinghe, she turned to face it, giving it no chance to tackle her from her side or behind.

However, she couldn't catch up to the dog's speed due to massive blood loss.

The wolfhound finally found a lull in her movement and charged at her arm which held the shard. Its force knocked Xinghe off her feet as well!

Finally tasting meat again, the wolfhound refused to let go no matter how hard Xinghe struggled.

At that moment, Xinghe's unimpeded left hand felt around the ground to search for other shattered shards.

Her fingers eventually curled around one and the sensation of pain from both hands snapped her attention into focus.

"Go to hell—" She shoved the shard into the dog's neck with all her might!

However, the dog was persistent.

Even though it suffered a neck injury, it refused to loosen its jaw…

The dog knew that the moment it did so, it would result in its death. It was not going to go down so easily.

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Chapter 253: To Destroy the Whole World
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

It was the same for Xinghe. She didn't dare let her guard down. There was no room for negotiation when her life was on the line.

With another war cry, Xinghe bit down hard on the wolfhound's ear. Her mouth was immediately filled with the taste of blood.

The wolfhound howled in pain and Xinghe felt its grip loosen. It leaped nimbly back and stared viciously at her.

Xinghe immediately took the opportunity to stand up, hoping to impress her opponent with a bigger stature. However, she grimaced from pain that shot through her body and she slid back down to the floor.

The wolfhound saw this temporary moment of weakness and lunged at Xinghe, aiming for her neck.

At that moment, a gunshot sounded outside the door and the next second, sunlight filtered into the room through the open door!

This series of sudden events startled not only Xinghe but also briefly paused on the wolfhound's movement.

Xinghe saw a shadow rush into the room like a whirlwind and before she realized what was happening, his large figure was already standing in front of her, shielding her from harm.

Almost at a same time, a small troop in army fatigues, fully armed, pouring into the empty warehouse.

Their coordination was so efficient and fast that in almost the blink of an eye, a safety perimeter was set up around Xinghe.

The man standing in front of Xinghe finally turned to reveal his familiar features.

Looking at the poignant scene, there was unspeakable tenderness in his eyes that couldn't be suppressed. However, the next second, his eyes turned into a wrathful, bottomless black hole, ready to swallow up the world.

Before Xinghe could register the range of emotions in his eyes, Mubai took deliberate steps towards the wolfhound.

Even though the wolfhound was hungry enough to reach a feral stage, its animal instincts intuitively felt the danger of a bigger predator. It yelped with fear before turning to run.

Mubai darted forward to grab at its two hind legs.

The wolfhound barked violently and turned to bite at his hands but before its sharp teeth could reach Mubai's flesh, it felt its entire body lifted off the ground. Mubai was slamming it against the wall.

From her position, Xinghe could hear the sound of bones cracking.

The beaten wolfhound struggled to stand up but was suddenly lifted up over its assailant's head. Under Xinghe's nervous gaze, Mubai pile-drove the dog headfirst against the ground!

The wolfhound howled in agony. Xinghe saw it spasm violently and heard it wheeze out a series of weak growls before going deathly still.

This was the first time Xinghe had seen this ruthless side of Mubai.

He only needed two actual hits to kill the large feral wolfhound. The animal didn't even have the chance to fight back.

At that moment, Xinghe realized maybe she didn't know Mubai as well as she thought she did.

He wasn't as mellow as he appeared. Deep down, he could be quite a heartless person.

Instead of fear, Xinghe, for some reason, had a new-found appreciation for this man. One shouldn't be too solicitous lest one be taken advantage of.

Xinghe held eye contact with the man who was walking towards her as she struggled to stand. "Take the bodies with us."

She only managed to say one sentence before darkness fell. The last thing she felt was her body being supported by a pair of powerful arms and Mubai's voice yelling her name.

Mubai dashed over when he saw Xinghe's eyes fluttering, his whole body was shaking as he held Xinghe's body in his arms.

He finally sighed in relief when she was given a rudimentary check and it was announced that she wasn't in a critical condition.

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Chapter 254: Today Is Her Last!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mubai carried Xinghe gently in his arms and ordered the men, "Bring the dogs' bodies and immediately track down the two kidnappers. I want them in custody before the night ends!"

"Yes, sir!" The group of trained soldiers responded in a clear voice. This would not end well for the two kidnappers as Xinghe predicted!

Of course, the culprit would not be safe either!

The culprit would not be spared from Xinghe's retribution much less Mubai's wrath.

This time, he was out for blood.

No matter who the culprit was, they would pay dearly!

…

Xinghe was immediately rushed to the hospital. Even though she suffered some quite serious injuries, they were nowhere near lethal.

She woke up just as the night fell.

Mubai sat by her bedside, guarding her. His eyes never once left her face.

That was why, the moment Xinghe opened her eyes, she met Mubai's intense gaze.

When he saw her come to, Mubai's eyes shook slightly and he asked with concern, "How are you feeling? Thirsty? Anything I can do to make you feel better?"

"How are my injuries?" Xinghe asked directly, the acute state of her mind very unlike a patient that had just suffered a traumatic event.

"You're healing fine. The injury looked serious but thankfully they didn't damage any nerves. You'll have a full recovery after a few months of rest."

"Wonderful," Xinghe said as she struggled to sit up. Mubai frowned and quickly went to stop her. "What are you doing? Quick lie back down!"

Xinghe swiped his hands away and sat up with a determined look. "I'm going to get revenge!"

Mubai was startled. "What are you talking about?"

"Am I not being clear enough?" Xinghe stared intensely at him and enunciated every word with force, "I will make those that dared to come after me pay! I will make them regret ever targeting me or those that I love!"

Mubai's eyes darkened and his lips curved into a sinful smile. "Don't worry, I will get revenge for you. I will personally send those that dared to harm you down to hell! I swear the revenge will be sweet but for now, you have to rest."

"Thanks but no thanks, I like to savor the experience for myself." Xinghe tried to get down from her bed.

Things like this she liked to do on her own.

Plus, she didn't like to wait and she didn't have the time to wait, she must exact her revenge now.

Death was looming and if she didn't take down this enemy soon, they might come after her family after she was gone.

She couldn't allow that to happen. She wouldn't wish the things that just happened to her on any one of her family.

The anger built up in her heart and if she didn't do something about it, she might go crazy.

Witnessing her determination, Mubai knew it was pointless to advise her otherwise. "Okay but I'll with you! However, I have to remind you that these people aren't Chui Ming's men."

After the collapse of Chui Corps, Chui Ming had lost every shred of influence he had. After he was sent into jail, Mubai ordered his men to take out the dangerous stragglers so the kidnappers were most likely not Chui Ming's men.

The fact that the two kidnappers were kind enough to reveal their 'identities' and not confiscate Xinghe's phone was a ploy to shift the blame onto Chui Ming.

Mubai saw through the childish trick easily.

Of course, so did Xinghe.

"I know it's not him. I know full well who is behind this. She thinks I will sit quietly taking her abuse because I can't connect it back to her… How naïve, because she thought wrong! I will let her know today that I, Xia Xinghe, am not so easily bullied! Today will be her last!"

"Who is she?" Mubai questioned with a chill in his tone.

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
Merry Christmas to some of the world! Happy Boxing Day to some of the world!

This chapter and the next one are sponsored by two turtle doves.

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Chapter 255: She Must Remove this Threat
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

He would not forgive the person that went after Xinghe.

He would make that person suffer indefinitely!

However, the name that came out of Xinghe's mouth gave him quite a shock.

"It is Chu Tianxin—" She announced the name of the culprit while staring at him, trying to gauge his reaction.

Mubai widened his eyes in shock before they narrowed fiercely. "Tianxin? How can you be sure she's behind this?"

"Isn't it obvious? I could see her plotting to take my life every time she glared at me. Currently, other than her, there is no one else capable of laying such a trap to claim my life."

She had dealt with Chui Ming and Wushuang so the couple couldn't be behind this.

Ruobing was confident that she would win Xinghe the day before yesterday and she was just kicked out of City T, so she wouldn't have been able to launch a counter-attack so soon.

Plus, this was murder they were talking about. The culprit must have harbored resentment against Xinghe for a very long time, 200 chapters worth of hatred to be precise.

The only character that had survived for that long was Chu Tianxin. She must have gone crazy from envy.

Ruobing's last words before she was dragged away were also a massive clue.

She was absolutely certain that Xinghe was going to be punished with death soon. She mostly likely knew someone was plotting against Xinghe's life.

The only person in Ruobing's close circle of friends that would do that was Chu Tianxin.

Even though she had no concrete evidence, all of her speculation pointed towards Tianxin.

Xinghe's instinct also told her the culprit is Chu Tianxin.

She knew the other woman had been eager to deal with her, so honestly… who else could it be?

Regardless, Xinghe knew she had to remove this threat before death actually befell her! She had to protect her family from this insane woman while she still could.

Therefore, she had to demolish Chu Tianxin that day!

No one was going to stop her!

Not even Xi Mubai!

To her surprise and satisfaction, Mubai didn't stop her. Instead he ordered one of the bodyguards, "Get me a wheelchair!"

The bodyguard quickly returned with one.

He lifted Xinghe up from the bed and into the wheelchair. Then, he brought her a blanket to keep her body warm. Facing her confused gaze, he explained, "I'll be going with you. I know you have your reasons for your suspicions and I've seen how meticulous you are in your logical thinking. I have full faith in your speculation so let's go hear what she has to say for herself."

Xinghe was astonished because she didn't expect him to have such confidence in her.

…

Night was falling.

Tianxin was sat on the couch in her living room, staring at the television and eating a whole cream cake.

She kept on shoveling the cake into her mouth, while staring transfixed at the program showing on the television as if hypnotized.

She would laugh occasionally, tickled by the characters' antics on screen, while waving the sharp cake knife in the air.

The program on television was a kid's show!

But Tianxin was having the time of her life, giggling like a little girl…

Mrs. Chu sat down beside her and asked with deep affection, "Tianxin, what happened today that made you so happy?"

Whenever Tianxin was exceptionally happy, she would put on a kid's show and eat cake. She would plant herself in front of the television for a very long time.

The last time this happened was when her engagement to Mubai was confirmed.

That seemed so long ago.

Due to the recent incident at the restaurant where Mubai rescinded the engagement, Tianxin hadn't been feeling particularly joyful.

So, Mrs. Chu was curious about what made her daughter so curiously happy that day.

Tianxin's face broke into an ear-to-ear grin and replied happily, "Oh, no reason."

"There has to be a reason, how can you be so happy for no reason?"

"Mum, isn't it good that I'm happy? I don't know how to explain it but can't you just be happy for me?" Tianxin said with a childish pout.

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Chapter 256: Surprised I'm Not Dead?
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mrs. Chu laughed. "Of course I'm happy for you. In fact, I've been worried because your mood has been incredibly low for the past few weeks."

Tianxin snaked her hand through her mother's arm and replied with a grin. "I'm sorry for making you worry but I'm fine now because I've realized something."

Mr. Chu happened to walk in the door then. He asked with a curious expression, "What are the two of you discussing? And what exactly did you realize, Tianxin, that made you so happy?"

"Yeah, Tianxin, what is it that you've realized?" Mrs. Chu added, anxious to hear her daughter say, I've realized I no longer need Xi Mubai in my life, I can find someone better!

Therefore, she frowned when Tianxin replied, "I've realized the future is still wide open. I'm sure Mubai will someday return to me."

"Tianxin, why are you still hung up over him? He treated you so badly…"

"Mum, I will not give up on him!" Tianxin pulled back her smile and affirmed with determination.

Mr. Chu suddenly started laughing. "Well said, spoken like a daughter of the Chu Family! You're right, you should fight tooth and nail for the thing that you want! Tianxin, Daddy is on your side!"

"Daddy, don't you worry, I will definitely make him mine," Tianxin added with a cunning smile.

So what if Mubai is in love with Xia Xinghe? The b*tch is nothing but dog food now!

With the competition out of the way, he'll eventually be mine!

At that moment, one of the maids rushed in to report, "Miss, CEO Xi is here, he said he want to meet you."

"Xi Mubai‽" Tianxin jumped off the couch happily, her eyes glowing at the mention of Mubai's name. "Then, what are you standing there for? Welcome him in!"

Mrs. Chu was confused. "Why is Mubai paying us such a sudden visit?"

The same confusion was reflected on her husband's face.

Tianxin didn't care why he was there as long as she could see him.

She even ran past the maid to open the door to greet him.

When she opened the door, she saw Mubai standing behind Xinghe in a wheelchair.

Under the porch light, Tianxin gawked at Xinghe with bulging eyes. Disbelief could be plainly seen on her face!

Xinghe narrowed her eyes at her and asked sarcastically, "Surprised I'm not dead?"

Isn't Xia Xinghe supposed to be dead? What is she doing here?

But Tianxin quietly snapped back into focus and replied with a sneer, "What are you talking about? Then again, I wouldn't be surprised if I do find you dead someday."

"Of course, you wouldn't be if you have something to do with it."

"Xia Xinghe, what do you mean by that‽"

The anxiety and agitation in her heart materialized outward as anger.

"Tianxin, why are you taking so long?" Mrs. Chu questioned from behind Tianxin.

Her face turned into a condescending jeer the moment she saw Xinghe. "Who let her in my house's compound? She doesn't deserve to step on my house's floor! Someone toss her out!"

When a maid moved forward after some hesitation, one of Mubai's bodyguards blocked her way with imposing presence.

Tianxin and her mother were taken aback. Even though they had no idea what they were doing there but it was obvious it was not a friendly visit.

"What? You people think you can just piss all over my house‽" Mr. Chu yelled as he strode over. He glared viciously at Mubai, aiming to suppress him with his identity as Mubai's elder. "Xi Mubai, what is the meaning of this? How dare you step out of line against your elders?"

Mubai replied emotionlessly, "This is a misunderstanding. Of course, we wouldn't step out of line."

Because retaliation is completely justified.

It seemed like Mr. Chu didn't know what his daughter had done because he really thought Mubai was afraid of him. He harrumphed smugly.

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Chapter 257: The First Present
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"If that's the case what are you doing here‽ You should know we Chu's don't welcome this b*tch!"

"We're here to give Tianxin some presents." This time it was Xinghe who answered.

The tone of her voice was calm but there was great pressure behind it.

Mrs. Chu frowned. "Presents? What presents?"

Xinghe ordered with a cold smirk, "Men, bring Chu Tianxin her first present!"

Immediately, two bodyguards came in carrying a stretcher.

There was something on it but it was concealed under a white cloth.

The arrival of this mysterious object chilled the air around them. It radiated an insidious aura…

Tianxin's instinct told her this couldn't be anything good.

The stretcher was laid down on the floor between the two parties and the bodyguards retreated silently.

Xinghe fixed her gaze on Tianxin as she ordered, "Go on, peel it back. I've prepared long and hard for this incredible present."

"Xia Xinghe, what are you playing at‽" Tianxin turned on her, "I'm not in the mood to play games with you! State your goal clearly or get out of my house!"

"Why waste time listening to her goal? All of you, get out! We don't welcome you here!" Mrs. Chu berated them with dissatisfaction.

Xinghe laughed. "Why so hasty? I told you I'm here to give you presents. Trust me, you'll regret it if you don't open the gift."

"Fine, I'll see what kind of tricks you can pull under here!" Mr. Chu pulled away the white cloth with a swipe of his feet.

And thus, the gift was revealed –

Mrs. Chu screamed in fear and even Tianxin took several steps back, their faces paled.

Mr. Chu glared at the supposed 'present', his eyes burning with fury.

"Someone, go call the cops!" His voice was even shaking from anger.

This 'present' Xinghe gave them was simply too hair-raisingly creepy.

It was the bodies of two wolfhounds…

To be precise, the broken bodies of two wolfhounds that obviously didn't die in peace.

The two dogs' deaths were unspeakably horrifying. Mrs. Chu would have dropped to the floor if not for Tianxin's shaking body holding her up.

However, Tianxin had another thing to fear.

She finally realized why Xinghe was there.

She is looking for revenge!

But how did she know I'm the culprit? My identity was even hidden from the two kidnappers!

"Mr. Chu, are you sure you want to call the cops?" Xinghe's clear voice cut through her thoughts. "The moment the police arrive is the moment you lose your freedom."

"What do you mean by that?" Mr. Chu narrowed his eyes at her with shock.

For some reason, he felt unease swept over him.

He knew this woman before him was no fool and had come prepared.

"You'll know soon enough," Xinghe turned back to Tianxin, "So what do you think? Do you like your present?"

"Xia Xinghe, what exactly are you aiming for? Why are you purposely using this to scare me?" Tianxin's eyes were filled with tears, she looked to Mubai pleadingly, "Mubai, I didn't do anything wrong, so why are you siding with this woman to bully me like this?"

Ever since they'd arrived, Mubai's eyes had been glazed with iciness.

He didn't even look at them this way during the lunch when the engagement was broken off.

But now, there was not even the tiniest bit of warmth in his eyes.

Faced with Tianxin's pleading, his facial muscle didn't even twitch. She was dead in his eyes the moment Tianxin flinched when she opened the door and saw Xinghe. This was indeed the culprit as Xinghe had said.

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Chapter 258: Fight Fire with Fire
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Should I side with you even after you made an attempt on Xinghe's life?" Mubai questioned pointedly.

Tianxin's hand went to her mouth. Her face was a collage of bewilderment, trauma, and other such emotions.

What did he say? How did he also find out…

Tears were flowing freely down Tianxin's face then. She screeched like a wounded animal at Mubai, "Xi Mubai how can you accuse me of such a thing‽ Is it not enough that you betrayed my love for you for this b*tch and now you stand on her side to frame me? Do our years together mean nothing to you?"

Mubai smirked and asked, "What years together? There has never been a relationship between the two of us."

Tianxin took a step back as if she was hit by a physical blow. "Never? I don't believe you, I don't believe you've never harbored any interest for me; I won't believe it!"

"You are not worth my interest," Mubai added heartlessly.

This was another blow to Tianxin's heart. How dare he say I'm not worth it…

"Haha. If I'm not worthy, don't tell me she is!" Tianxin pointed her finger accusingly at Xinghe. "She is worth less than me in every single aspect, how come she is worthy while I'm not? Explain it to me!"

"Chu Tianxin, don't change the subject," Xinghe interrupted her rudely. "I still have more presents for you to receive."

Tianxin straightened her spine and the gaze that fell on Xinghe became charged with chilling lunacy.

It was like a demon staring at her from the bowels of hell…

"Why should I receive your presents‽ Who are you‽ Xia Xinghe, I warn you, get out of my house or I'm calling the cops!" Tianxin threatened coldly. Since begging Mubai was not going to work, she was tired of wearing her façade anymore.

Xinghe rewarded her with one of her own sharp gazes. "Why should you receive the presents? Simple, because they are yours to begin with!"

"What's mine? Don't accuse me simply because you can!" Xinghe seemed to have struck a nerve because Tianxin shrieked crazily at her.

Xinghe smirked. "You yourself know whether that's an accusation or not. However, you should have paid more attention to the gift's conditions. I put in a lot of effort to dress them up like this."

"…"

Xinghe continued, "This right here died from extreme pain after I blinded it by piercing a glass shard through its eyes. Actually, I want to thank you for gifting me these two animals because every jab into its eyes was a great stress reliever. I can still hear its painful whimper now, I wish you'd been there to hear it."

"Stop it!" Mrs. Chu cut her off angrily, she continued with a shaking voice, "You're crazy! Call the cops and have them arrest this crazy b*tch!"

Xinghe smiled indifferently, not minding the insult one bit. "Mrs. Chu, you're right. But I'm only fighting fire with fire," she glanced at Chu Tianxin and added, "Because your daughter is the craziest one of all!"

"You…" Mrs. Chu was angry behind words. "Xia Xinghe, you b*tch, watch your mouth!"

"Get out now!" Mr. Chu roared angrily. He had had enough, "Whoever refuses to move, I'm going to haul them out myself!"

He took a few steps forward and glared at them savagely like he was ready to kill them at any moment.

Xinghe's and Mubai's faces were as still as surface of a deep pond.

In comparison to the Chu family, they looked confident and composed, as if everything was falling according to their plan.

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Chapter 259: Mubai Wanted to Kill Them
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"I will leave on my own when I'm done giving the presents, so don't worry," Xinghe continued leisurely, "I've not finished introducing my first present so please calm down."

"Xia Xinghe, that's enough!" Tianxin screamed, "You keep saying you're returning these two dogs to me but where is your proof that I sent them to you in the first place? Why would I send you two dogs for no reason?"

Xinghe smiled at how unreasonable Tianxin was. Well, two can play at this game.

"Indeed, you sent them to me for no reason and now I'm sending them back to you for no reason. By the way, don't you want to see how much care I've put into the second dog? Just take a look at it, notice the cracked bones that protruded out of its joints? Did you know the sound of bone cracking is very similar to how a dry branch snaps?"

"Xia Xinghe, enough is enough! You are nuts and demented!" Tianxin yelled while glaring at her.

She would never admit Xinghe's description was actually scaring her.

She thought she was already vicious enough but Xia Xinghe was on a whole new level.

The two feral wolfhounds not only didn't kill her but were in turn tortured to death.

Just how did she find the courage to do it…

Tianxin was aware that she wouldn't be able to go to such lengths if she was in Xinghe's shoes.

Therefore, Xia Xinghe… was a scary opponent.

Xinghe smelled the fear on Tianxin and smiled. That was what she wanted.

She scoffed. "Why, afraid?"

"Who said I'm afraid? You think I'll ever be afraid of you? Impossible!" Tianxin retorted.

"Of course, you're not afraid of me. If you were, you wouldn't have trapped me with two feral dogs and have them eat me. A woman who could do until that level probably won't be afraid of anyone," Xinghe stunned the room with every word.

Mr. and Mrs. Chu opened their eyes wide.

What is Xia Xinghe talking about? Tianxin unleashed two feral dogs on Xinghe, making her their dog food?

A murderous aura was radiating off Mubai.

He'd thought the two dogs were just there to bite her… not eat her!

His gaze, that was on Tianxin, dropped several degrees in temperature.

"Say the word and I'll have all of them silenced!" Mubai squeezed through gritted teeth with vehemence and force.

This shocked the Chu family even more.

Mubai was going to kill them…

"Loons, all of you are a bunch of loons! How dare you threaten our safety, I will sue until you have nothing left!" Mr. Chu roared as he pulled out his phone to call the police.

However, his finger was shaking too violently to key in the correct number.

Mrs. Chu pulled Tianxin back into their house and watched them with alert eyes.

"Mubai, you can't be tricked by this b*tch! My Tianxin would never do such a thing; you know she has to be wrongly accusing my sweet Tianxin!" Mrs. Chu tried to persuade Mubai.

She didn't believe her innocent daughter would do something as insane as Xinghe accused.

"Mubai, I really didn't do the thing she said, you have to believe me. If she has proof behind her accusation then I'd have nothing to say but she doesn't so you can't fall for her lies!" Tianxin explained with tears in her eyes.

Mr. Chu suddenly yelled, "I've called the cops and they're on the way. I'm giving you all a final chance to leave while you still can!"

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
Happy Boxing Day for some of you!

These three chapters are sponsored by three french hens.

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Chapter 260: The Second Present
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mr. Chu thought that would make them leave.

However, neither Mubai nor Xinghe even moved a muscle, as if they were not at all worried about the police's involvement…

"When the police get here, neither of you will be getting away scot-free!" Mr. Chu threatened with added emphasis.

Tianxin suddenly pointed her finger at Xinghe and warned, "Even if you run, I will not forgive you! Xia Xinghe, how dare you accuse me! You're finished, I tell you!"

"Accuse you? Chu Tianxin, do you think I can't do anything because I have no proof?" Xinghe rebutted coldly.

A flash of smugness crossed Tianxin's eyes. "It is not my fault that you have no proof. Xia Xinghe, if you can't produce any proof now, then it is just a baseless accusation, so don't think you can wiggle your way out of this. I will pursue you with a libel lawsuit even until the end of the world!"

"And criminal intimidation—" Mrs. Chu added furiously, "The two of you threatened our lives so we will definitely pursue this!"

"Then what about corruption and criminal bribery?" Xinghe asked suddenly and it stunned the Chu family.

What corruption and criminal bribery?

Xinghe explained with a smile, "I've always wondered how your entire family could live in luxury when your father is just a public servant and you're a lowly writer. So, I did some digging and the answer I found is my second present for you, Tianxin. The rotten apple really didn't fall far from the diseased tree. I have in my possession all the records of your father's corruption. Thanks for calling the police, Mr. Chu; you've saved me the trip to the police station."

Mr. Chu's face fell.

He started to panic. How could Xia Xinghe possibly know about my malpractices?

And not only that, she apparently has evidence of them…

No, she must be bluffing, she's only a little girl; how can she possibly accomplish that?

Mr. Chu's years of experience in the political stratosphere helped calm himself down quickly.

He came down on Xinghe with authority, "You dared to accuse me of corruption? You must be joking! I'm a politician that devoted his whole life to serving his constituents so you must be bluffing; if you dare, then show us the proof!"

Xinghe flipped open the notebook that sat on her lap and her face was lit up by the screen's harsh light after it was turned on.

Her fingers typed on the keyboard with ease and not long after, the Chu's phones sounded with the inbox message notification.

"I've sent the proof you asked for, you can check it for yourself," Xinghe said slowly as she raised her eyes from the screen.

Mr. Chu was the most shocked. He quickly pulled out his phone—

His inbox was bombarded with pictures.

When he clicked on the first one, his face paled considerably.

In the picture, he was in a secret meeting with a company's CEO. Most importantly, the CEO was pushing towards him a suitcase of cash…

This happened not long ago, how did Xia Xinghe get a photo of this?

Who was the photographer?

He scrolled down to find a picture of him in bed with a young woman!

Mrs. Chu beside him saw the picture and screeched, "Chu Liangpin, who is this hussy‽ How dare you cheat on me with this prostitute? You heartless bastard, I'm going to kill you!"

If Tianxin got her looks from her mother, then she got her scheming mind from her father. He was familiar with his wife's feisty temperament so, in that instant, he decided to make use of her to get himself out of this conundrum.

He shoved Mrs. Chu back towards the couch where Tianxin's cake knife laid and said with purpose, "Woman, the picture is fake! If you want to kill someone, find the person responsible for fabricating this picture and not me!"

Mrs. Chu fell to the floor and was temporarily dazed.

"It's a fake?" She mumbled to herself but the next second, she narrowed her eyes at Xinghe with lethal intent and spat, "You b*tch, how dare you sabotage our relationship, I'm going to kill you!"

Mrs. Chu swiped the knife off the ground and charged at Xinghe.

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Chapter 261: The Third Present
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

She dashed towards Xinghe, the knife glistening in her hand.

Mrs. Chu's sudden move shocked everyone. Even the bodyguards were caught by surprise and forgot to protect Xinghe…

However, as the knife came towards her, Xinghe didn't move or even blink as if she was expecting this.

As the knife neared Xinghe's head, Mr. Chu and Tianxin grew increasingly excited.

If Mrs. Chu killed Xinghe, Mr. Chu could push all the blame on her and argue for a more lenient punishment for his misdemeanor while Tianxin would have access to Mubai without Xinghe standing in her way.

Suddenly, a strong arm came out to grab at Mrs. Chu's wrist and the knife stopped in mid-air.

Mrs. Chu's arm was locked into a hold by Mubai and, try as she might, she couldn't move an inch.

The bodyguards finally snapped back into focus and immediately tackled Mrs. Chu to the floor and detained her!

"Let me go, I have to kill Xia Xinghe, let me go…" Mrs. Chu struggled like a crazy woman. Now one could see where Tianxin got her murderous instinct.

Xinghe looked at her and loudly spoke over Mrs. Chu, "Mrs. Chu, the picture is real, or else would I hand it over to the police? Fabrication of evidence is a crime."

Mrs. Chu was silent and turned to look at her husband. His face was pale and his fingers were shaking.

They had been husband and wife for years, she knew his tells. Xinghe was right, the picture was real.

Mrs. Chu started to struggle again. "Chu Liangpin, you really cheated on me? You heartless bastard! I'm going to kill you!"

Xinghe ignored her and stared into Tianxin's eyes as she said, "The third present."

Tianxin widened her eyes in confusion.

"Your mother's jail time is my third present to you. I'm afraid your father will be too alone in there by himself so I found him a companion. Plus, it looks like they'll have plenty to discuss behind bars," Xinghe explained softly.

Tianxin and her father were stunned.

This was the b*tch's plan all along. She purposely slipped in the bed picture to provoke my mother!

Xinghe originally wanted to stick an assault charge on Mrs. Chu but since the Chu family gave her more ammo to stick it to them, she was more than willing to accept. A murder charge did have a better ring, she had to admit.

"Xia Xinghe, what are you up to‽ Why are you targeting our Chu family even though we have done no wrong by you?" Mr. Chu questioned anxiously.

Xinghe smiled looking at his flustered reaction.

Xinghe replied with a scoff, "You have done no wrong by me? I, Xia Xinghe, only abide by the philosophy that tit for tat is fair play, I will not attack unless I'm attacked!"

Xinghe might have been replying to Mr. Chu but her words were directed straight at his daughter.

Tianxin's heart shook slightly…

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
I shifted the plot structure around for a bit for this chapter and the next for a better overall logic.

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Chapter 262: The Whole Chu Family
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Just because I played a nasty prank on you, you're going to ruin me‽" Tianxin glared angrily at her and retorted.

Xinghe smirked. "You? You alone are not worth my time."

Tianxin was taken aback. What is the b*tch saying? I'm not worth her time‽ Then what is she doing here? Who does she think she is‽

Right then, Xinghe added, "I'm taking out the entire Chu family trash!"

Tianxin's smile was twitching with anger as she replied, "Xia Xinghe, I don't think you will be able to take on my family even if you want to! Who do you think you are? The only reason you can speak so loudly now is because you have Mubai to support you! Without him, you are nothing!"

"I started collecting the evidence against your father when you first visited me at the hospital to insult me with the credit card charity." Xinghe announced suddenly.

Tianxin and her father were shocked that Xinghe's plan had been in action for so long…

Xinghe continued softly, "Of course, the evidence was just a precaution. If you'd left me alone, we wouldn't even have gotten to this stage. Since you've asked for it, then open your eyes wide and see how I take down your entire family!"

Then, Xinghe pointed at Mr. Chu and continued, "After I take down your father and mother, the Chu family will implode on itself. Without the halo of the Chu Family's Young Lady title, do you think I still need to waste my time to deal with you?"

Tianxin finally realized the full extent of Xinghe's plan.

After gifting her the three presents, Xinghe was taking away the authority commanded by the Chu family. Without her parents holding the household up, it was only a matter of time before the Chu family crumbled.

Without the backing of her family, Tianxin would be left with nothing. Xinghe could swat her around like a fly, without retribution and with ease.

Tianxin was shocked to realize how impressive Xinghe's scheming mind was. She predicted Tianxin would come for her and had planned her counter-attack in advance.

Not only that, she wasn't only going after her alone; she was going after the entire Chu Family!

It was like she said, Tianxin alone was definitely not worth her time so she was going to wipe out her whole family!

Hatred bubbled in Tianxin's heart. She should have gone for the b*tch's life herself!

Right then, a cold and detached Mubai ordered, "Detain the remaining criminal and wait for the police to arrive!"

"Yes, sir!" The bodyguards went at Mr. Chu.

"Let me go! Who dares to touch me, I'm this county's Traffic Minister!" Mr. Chu struggled in their grip. His struggle seemed to awaken the fight in Mrs. Chu and she also started to fight back while screaming a slew of insults at Xinghe.

The harder they struggled, the rougher the guards got. Their actions were hurting no one but themselves.

Mrs. Chu's perfect hair had fallen out of place and her clothes were stained with smudges from rolling on the floor…

"Stop! Let go of my parents!" Tianxin dashed forward to stop the bodyguards but was rudely shoved away. She fell to the floor with a thud.

"Mubai…" She crawled to Mubai's side and pulled on his pants' legs. She turned up to look at him and begged, her eyes swirling with tears and indignation, "How can you treat my family so harshly? The Chu Family and Xi Family have been friends for years; when do you lose your heart and decide to treat us this way? Please, I beg you not to be so cruel towards us, please show us mercy…"

Tianxin's pleading petered off to heaving sobs. She tried to use pity to touch Mubai.

Mubai was completely unaffected. In fact, his eyes glowed with something akin to disgust.

He stared down at Tianxin and announced, like a judge from hell, "You have no one else to blame for this ending other than yourself. Chu Tianxin, you've crossed the line first when you plotted against Xinghe's life! Where is your mercy then‽"

"I didn't do such a thing!" Tianxin rebutted fiercely, "I did not harm Xia Xinghe, much less plot for her life. I did no such thing. Until now, she couldn't produce the evidence that I did it, she is accusing me on purpose! Where is the evidence‽"

"Her word is the only evidence I need," Mubai replied coldly.

What‽

Tianxin stared at him with an inexplicable expression.

She didn't expect Mubai would have such faith in Xinghe.

He would believe Xinghe so unconditionally even if it was a murder accusation against her!

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Chapter 263: Hundreds of Humiliating Slaps
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

He actually believed her just like that, and even helped Xinghe deal with the Chu family, completely disregarding their families' previous ties.

Envy rose up within Tianxin as her crocodile tears dried. "You believe everything she says‽"

"That's right!" Mubai answered without hesitation.

His answer was so final that Tianxin felt that even if Xinghe told him to kill himself, he would.

Tianxin could feel her world imploding. Earlier when her parents were apprehended, she didn't even feel despair as heavy as this.

But now the heavy weight of despair was suffocating her.

She missed out on the chance to kill Xinghe and now she'd seen for herself how much Mubai was in love with Xia Xinghe… What chance did she have left?

She could never marry him and make him hers!

The despair of losing Mubai caused Tianxin to shake uncontrollably. The shaking was unnatural and disturbing, like something within was breaking out of her body…

She glared at the both of them fiendishly and started chuckling. "Xi Mubai, how can you be so heartless‽ I've loved you with all my heart and all my soul, you should love me back as well, it is only fair! Why don't you love me?"

Mubai stared at her coldly, not responding.

Like another personality emerging, Tianxin started to cry. She clutched her heart as if in pain and groaned, "Do you know how much pain I'm currently in? Why do you do this to me? Why‽"

"Because you came after the woman I love," Mubai's answer was like a sound slap to her face.

Tianxin froze as if her brain couldn't process what he just said.

"You're willing to ruin my entire family because of her?" Tianxin asked in disbelief while pointing at Xinghe.

"Let's get it straight; I'm the one who is out for my revenge," Xinghe reminded her emotionlessly.

However, this news was even more harrowing for Tianxin.

She wouldn't mind as much if this whole operation was Mubai's prerogative but he was targeting her family on Xinghe's behalf‽ The cruel reality tore at her heart.

Tianxin flipped back to her earlier chuckles. With the chill of the night in the air, her chuckles were incredibly eerie. "You want to take revenge against me but that will never come into fruition, not tonight, not ever! As long as I don't admit it, you guys will never have any proof, without the proof, you will never be able to do me in! Never, I tell you, never ever! Ha ha ha ha ha…"

Tianxin smug chuckles eventually turned into unhinged laughter.

Her long hair fluttered in the wind, covering half of her face. Her laughs seemed to come from some place beyond her frail body.

Even the bodyguards felt a chill down their spines looking at her.

Xinghe was not affected. There was no change in her expression, in fact, she was getting a bit bored.

"Have you gone mad?" She stared icily at Tianxin. "I'm quite impressed with the whole act, I'm sure you'll get lots of sympathy when you go begging."

That silenced Tianxin and she glared at Xinghe with eyes filled to the brim with venom and resentment.

Xinghe added with a scoff, "I still remember the grin on your face during Lin Lin's party a few months ago. The night where the world smiled upon you, I bet you didn't expect things to change so soon."

Xinghe's words were like hundreds of slaps on Tianxin's face, each one increasing her desire to tear Xinghe into bloody pieces!

Her face burned with anger and shame. Xia Xinghe, who she once trampled on and laughed at, not only rose to the top in such a short amount time but also secured Mubai's love.

In contrast, she, who was originally Mubai's fiancé, not only lost the engagement but was also in the middle of losing everything she had!

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Chapter 264: I'm Staying
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

With her parents gone, the Chu family would crumble soon after. She would fall from her position as the respectable young lady of the Chu family to a street-walker that no one would get close to.

Without her family background, she was nothing.

She not only missed her opportunity to marry Mubai and realized her lifelong dream, her ending would be unimaginably horrific…

Tianxin had lived in the lap of luxury ever since she was young; there was no way she would allow herself to end up in such a deplorable state.

The thought of Xinghe assuming her original place at the top and herself tumbling down to the trenches of lower society made her heart boil with dissatisfaction.

She couldn't, no, wouldn't accept this arrangement!

She would rather die than be poor!

She couldn't stand watching the only thing she vied for in life, a luxurious, married life with Mubai, getting taken away from her!

If she couldn't have it, no one could! Especially not Xia Xinghe!

Tianxin's eyes shined with a manic glow as she climbed up and dashed into her house.

"Evacuate immediately!" Mubai ordered immediately as he pushed Xinghe's wheelchair back.

Xinghe held down hard on her wheelchair to stop it from moving. "Not yet."

"We must leave now, this is too dangerous!" Mubai said in a tone that brooked no argument.

Xinghe stared intensely at the door that led into the Chu's living room and said with a thin smile, "There is no risk without danger and with great risk come great reward. I have to make sure she is completely crushed tonight, for that I'm willing to take this risk."

"Even so, you don't need to be here personally to take the risk!" Mubai argued furiously.

Xinghe turned to look at him with a pair of clear set eyes. "But the person she wants to kill is me."

She was right. Tianxin's target was Xinghe. If she left, Tianxin would have no reason to strike.

If that was the case, how was Xinghe going to trap her?

"I can kill her for you," Mubai squatted down and looked into Xinghe's eyes. "You don't have to take this risk."

Xinghe met his dark eyes and her own gaze unwittingly wavered. "I like to strategize not to kill."

Xinghe didn't like to bloody her hands when dealing with her enemies unless absolutely necessary. It was not worth it.

You would be implicated by murder and spend the rest of your life paying the debt for that one moment of satisfaction. It was not a worthwhile trade.

Therefore, Xinghe preferred to maneuver her enemies into tripping over her or their own traps.

Even if Mubai offered to do the deed for her, she refused because it was not worth it. Why should he spend his life paying for her trouble? She didn't want to owe him anything. She wanted Chu Tianxin to pay for her own sin by her own volition, but on Xinghe's terms.

Therefore, this risk… she had to take it.

Mubai saw through her thoughts and nodded solemnly. "If that's the case, I'm staying here with you."

He had her hands in his grasp and they tightened.

Xinghe felt the squeeze and her eyes involuntarily looked up into his eyes. Compelled by the magic of the moment, Mubai leaned in…

Tianxin rushed out at that moment and started yelling bloody murder when she saw what was happening.

"I'm going to kill both of you!"

She raised a pistol and shot at them.

The sound of gunshots shattered the silence of the night. Xinghe widened her eyes in shock and tried to push Mubai back. However, she was quickly pushed back as Mubai ran into her, pulled her into a hug and rolled out of harm's way.

The bodyguards quickly pulled out their own firearms and shot at Tianxin in return.

One of the bullets hit Tianxin's pistol, blasting it out of her hands.

"Take her down—" A large bodyguard yelled as the others jumped on Tianxin.

Tianxin struggled to crawl towards the pistol that had flown out of her hands.

Her eyes were burning with envy and madness. The insanity was twisting her mouth into an ugly, slanted slit.

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Chapter 265: The Fourth Present
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The few physically strong bodyguards almost couldn't contain her.

They had never seen such a crazed woman before.

The madness in her eyes was like a whirlpool, endless and deep. She was acting like a person who had completely lost her mind.

When Mubai and Xinghe looked her way, disbelief and shock were plainly written on their faces.

"So, she is crazy," Xinghe concluded matter-of-factly.

Mubai was speechless. He didn't realize Tianxin was such a dangerous character.

However, that was where his concern for Tianxin ended. He was more worried about someone else.

"How are you? Are you hurt?" he asked Xinghe hurriedly as he checked her body for injuries.

"I'm fine," Xinghe answered calmly and after a beat or two added, "How about you?"

This might be the first time Xinghe actively showed concern towards him.

Mubai's lips curved into a wicked smile. "Thanks, I'm fine."

"That's good." Xinghe pushed herself up and dragged her injured leg as she wobbled towards Tianxin.

Mubai quickly went to support her. It came all too naturally to him.

The two of them eventually stopped before Tianxin.

Tianxin suddenly went still as a corpse in a hearse. She craned her neck upwards and her savage gaze assaulted both of them before falling squarely on Xinghe's face.

Xinghe read the blood thirst and homicidal intent in her eyes. Chu Tianxin really wanted to kill her.

Alas, she wouldn't be able to because she had already lost.

"Chu Tianxin, job well done," Xinghe opened her mouth to say, "You didn't disappoint."

Like she said earlier, Xinghe had no proof to pin anything on her, but now she did. This wouldn't have happened if Tianxin wasn't so easily provoked, like mother like daughter it seemed.

This murder attempt with a loaded gun would definitely land her in jail.

Tianxin finally realized she had walked into a trap, she yelled angrily, "Xia Xinghe, my failure to kill you is the biggest regret in my life! As long as I'm alive, I will one day come back to kill you!"

"Good because I'll be sure to keep you alive," Xinghe said with a merciless smile, "Because that is the fourth present I'm giving you, the gift of life! I'll make sure you suffer hell on Earth until the day of your very last breath!"

Tianxin widened her eyes and there was fear in them.

Not specifically of Xinghe but her future.

Jail time awaited her and her life of being the princess of the Chu Family was over…

"By the way, you recently reminded me of an old friend, Chui Ming, so I called his incarceration center to check up on him, you know what he said?" Xinghe asked softly, her tone as chilly as the grave, "He said I should have killed him when given the chance. Who knows, maybe I'll hear the same from you in a few months."

"Xia Xinghe, you b*tch, come back here and let me kill you!" Tianxin started to struggle again but she couldn't do anything against the bodyguards' suppression.

"Mubai!" Tianxin suddenly turned to Mubai as if spotting a lifeline and started bawling. "I'm sorry, please save me. Mubai, I only did all this because I love you. Mubai, I really dearly love, everything I am I owe it to you, you are the reason why I did all that…"

Mubai creased his brows in disgust before ordering, "Hand her over to the police."

"Yes, sir!" The bodyguards pulled her away, during which, Tianxin never stopped begging him and screaming for help, but no matter what she said, Mubai didn't show a shift in his expression.

In fact, he felt shaken by this side of his ex-fiancé.

Tianxin was quickly taken into police custody.

The police had arrived a long time and had been waiting outside.

They didn't ask much about what happened inside the house. They only needed the criminal evidence of the Chu family before taking the family of criminals away…

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
The plot is going to get a bit sci-fi-esque for the next arc. Just consider it a reincarnation situation.

The four bonus chapters today are sponsored by four calling birds. Hehehe what a coincidence that it's the fourth present as well!

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Chapter 266: Losing Consciousness (End of Chu Family Arc)
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

It took Xinghe a single night to take out the entire Chu Family.

Her preparedness and impeccable planning greatly impressed Mubai.

However, it couldn't take away from the fact that it was still a great risk.

Thankfully, he followed or else she might have ended up in physical danger.

"I will handle the whole issue expediently. Don't worry, they are not getting out of this easily. So now, please follow me back to the hospital. You really need to rest," Mubai said in a voice full of concern.

Xinghe took a look at him and after some debate in her mind, nodded.

"Okay."

Xinghe struggled to stand up but was immediately swept into Mubai's arms!

Xinghe was stunned before starting to struggle. However, she was quick to realize she was trapped in his powerful hug and finally decided to yield this time. This was not a battle worth fighting.

Mubai saw her stop struggling and he was tickled pink.

As he carried her out of the Chu Family's gate, he said with a smile big enough to block out the sun, "When you're feeling better, we'll have to reschedule our family lunch."

 Xinghe was reminded of the fact that she was initially on the way to have lunch with Mubai and Lin Lin.

It was rudely interrupted by Chu Tianxin…

"How much does Lin Lin know?" Xinghe asked with a hint of anxiety, she didn't want her son to worry unnecessarily about her.

"I didn't tell him anything other than you're safe and sound."

That's good.

"Let's have that lunch in a few days," she said suddenly.

Mubai scanned her face intensely and smiled. "Your wish is my command!"

Xinghe ignored him. She prayed that her body would recover by then because she couldn't miss this lunch.

Her original plan was to leave the country with Lin Lin the day after tomorrow.

However, with her injury, her plan had to be delayed.

She hoped that there would still be time…

Suddenly, she felt a surging headache.

Her heart also started to palpitate.

She grabbed at the front of Mubai's shirt unconsciously. She had difficulties catching her breath and she heard Mubai's anxious and surprised voice asking, "What's wrong?"

"I…" Xinghe opened her mouth to say that she was not feeling well but she was overwhelmed by a world of darkness.

"Xinghe!" The last thing she heard was Mubai calling her name frantically.

…

Sometime later, Xinghe finally regained her consciousness.

Before she opened her eyes, she could already smell the disinfectant in the air.

She should be inside a hospital.

Was that a symptom of the disease? Does that mean Mubai knows about my condition now?

If he knows, there is no way he would allow Lin Lin to follow me overseas.

Xinghe slowly opened her eyes and as she expected, the first thing that entered her eyes was the off-white ceiling.

There was no one else in the room but herself.

Xinghe turned to sit up but couldn't summon any strength. It was as if her strength had seeped out of her body from lying in bed for so long.

"You're awake!" Suddenly, the room door was pushed open by a nurse. The nurse saw her and broke into a surprised smile. "You're finally awake. You have no idea how long you've been out. We were getting worried."

Before Xinghe could say a word in return, the nurse dashed out of the room after she said, "I'm going to inform your family!"

That was a downer for Xinghe. From the looks of things, her uncle and Xia Zhi should know about her condition by now. How was she going to face them?

Plus, it appeared as if she had been unconscious for a long period of time. The tumor must have worsened and the end of her life was drawing ever closer.

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
The break down for Memory Lineage Arc 267 - 331. Mini Arc: Ye Family's Daughter in law 267 - 280. Memory Lineage Technology 281 - 295. Ye Shen's punishment 296 - 314 [Interlude 311 - 312: Project Galaxy] 314 - 331 Capture and Torture

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Chapter 267: Young Mistress, You're Finally Awake
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xinghe thought back to that dream she had some time ago.

In the dream, she wasted away in a hospital bed just like this one…

She didn't expect it to come true so soon.

Lin Lin was still in the country, she hadn't changed his destiny.

However, thankfully, she had taken care of Chu Tianxin. At least, she won't be of any harm to her child.

Suddenly, the door to her room was again pushed open.

A middle-aged woman in a house maid uniform strode in and studied Xinghe emotionlessly. "Young mistress, you're finally awake. Young Master has been so worried about you."

The woman's tone was weird. The content might be full of concern but the tone she used was completely devoid of any care toward Xinghe. It was like she was talking to a block of wood.

What's with this 'Young Mistress'?

Her divorce to Mubai was at least three years ago.

"Who are you?" Xinghe opened her mouth to ask. The voice that came out of her throat was coarse and completely unlike her usual voice.

The woman sneered. "Young Mistress, have you lost your mind? I'm Auntie Ding."

"I don't know you," Xinghe said coldly, "Tell me, what is going on, what happened while I was unconscious."

Auntie Ding gave another sneer. "Young Mistress, you can save your little amnesia act, I will not fall for it. Honestly, the whole act annoys me so stop it. And since you're awake, then we're going home. Madam says that even though the Ye family might be rich we must practice frugality. You've been wasting the family's money by staying so long at the hospital. Therefore, Madam ordered me to bring you home, the moment you woke up."

Xinghe widened her eyes in confusion.

What is this Auntie Ding talking about? And what Ye Family?

Xinghe's instinct told her something had gone seriously wrong.

Before she could get a better feel of the situation, Auntie Ding ushered two bodyguards into the room while she went to the corner to take the wheelchair.

"Do what you need to do, we need to bring Young Mistress back home," Auntie Ding ordered the bodyguards.

The bodyguards immediately walked over to roughly pick up her body and practically threw her into the wheelchair.

Xinghe frowned with dissatisfaction but for the most part, she was in shock. Who are these people? What are they talking about? Why are they doing this?

"Where is Xi Mubai? Get him for me, I want to meet him," Xinghe said firmly.

Auntie Ding looked at her strangely. The things that came out of Xinghe's mouth that day were all weird and senseless.

Now you want to meet… Xi Mubai‽

Auntie Ding laughed with incredulity.

Xinghe spotted the way Auntie Ding looked at her. It was a mixture of condescension and confusion like she was looking at a mental patient.

"Young Mistress, if you want to continue this act, do it to Young Master. It will not work on me!"

"Enough!" Xinghe scolded with authority, she leveled a strict gaze at all of them. "Who are you people and what the hell is happening? Stop playing games, I'm not in the mood."

Auntie Ding was startled.

This was the first time she saw this woman so commanding in her presence.

What happened to the mousey girl who allowed everyone to trample all over her without saying a word?

Auntie Ding looked at Xinghe, deliberating what to do.

Finally, she chose to ignore Xinghe. At the end of the day, she answered to a higher power than this woman!

Auntie Ding chose to disregard Xinghe on purpose and ordered the two bodyguards coldly, "Bring her back home. If she put up any resistance, feel free to use the old method!"

"Yes!"

One of the bodyguards stepped forward and eyed Xinghe warningly.

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Chapter 268: A Stranger's Face
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Young Mistress, please cooperate or we'll have to use drugs."

Xinghe's eyes shook and after some deliberation, decided that it was in her best interest to cooperate for now.

Auntie Ding and the bodyguards nodded satisfactorily. They wheeled her out the room heading towards the elevator.

The moment Xinghe left the room, she realized she was at First Hospital.

Along the way, they crossed many doctors, nurses, patients and visitors. They didn't pay her much attention, at most stopping their gaze on her for a few seconds before moving on.

A woman in a wheelchair was nothing extraordinary at the hospital.

However, every cell in Xinghe's body was screaming that something was totally out of the ordinary.

Ever since she woke up, Xinghe could feel that something was different, out of place, but no matter how hard she tried to figure out what, she couldn't.

While Xinghe was lost in thought, they finally arrived before the elevator.

When the door opened and Xinghe looked in, she was stunned beyond words!

The walls inside the elevator were as shiny as a mirror. The moment it opened, the walls reflected their whole group clearly.

Auntie Ding was standing on her left hand side, two bodyguards, one on her right and another behind her pushing the wheelchair.

And she was sitting in the wheelchair…

But the face of the woman in the wheelchair was not hers! It was the face of a complete stranger!

Xinghe widened her eyes in shock and saw the woman in the mirror did the same.

She felt her face frantically and the woman in the mirror copied her.

Xinghe, who normally had absolute control of her emotions, felt fear and anxiety rise in her heart.

How did I … become this way?

Auntie Ding observed her funny movements and smirked but she didn't say anything.

From her perspective, the woman had probably gone crazy.

Then again, a mental breakdown wouldn't have been out of place considering…

"What is my name‽" suddenly asked Xinghe, as she grabbed at her wrist.

Auntie Ding jumped from the sudden contact. She shrugged Xinghe's hands off impatiently and commented, "Now you're pretending to be crazy after the failed suicide attempt‽ Don't worry, Young Master will not divorce you even if you're really crazy!"

"What is my name?" Xinghe repeated while staring her down.

Auntie Ding, for some reason, felt a huge pressure bearing down on her.

She eventually grumbled, "Fine, if you want to act crazy, so be it. Your name is Xia Meng and your husband, Ye Shen, is the Young Master of the Ye Family!"

Xinghe was bewildered.

Who are these Xia Meng and Ye Shen…

Xinghe turned to the image of herself in the wall and recognition slowly dawned.

Suddenly, a particular scene entered her mind.

"This is one of my patients. Her surname is Xia as well. Perhaps you two are extended family?"

"No, I don't think I know her."

"But from now on, we do know each other. Nice to make your acquaintance, Miss Xia."

This is her! Doctor Lu's patient in the wheelchair!

Xinghe had no idea why she would suddenly become this woman.

But why? She only lost consciousness for a short while and after she woke up, she was another person?

Xinghe couldn't think of a logical answer.

Even after they got into the car, Xinghe was still not quite herself.

Finally, she had to satisfy herself with the one last remaining possibility that could explain her situation.

Perhaps it was as Xia Zhi had said. Perhaps, she had died and her soul had taken over someone else's body, and this was going to be a transmigration story…

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
Note from the Author: Tired of the same ol’ plot structure, trying out something new~ But the face slapping will not stop.

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Chapter 269: She Is Still Alive
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

But did such a supernatural event actually happen in real life?

'Predicting the future' Xinghe could believe because fortune-telling had a long cultural history, but a soul transfer? She didn't believe it one bit!

There had to be a more scientific explanation behind all this.

Xinghe decided to collect more information before she committed to anything.

"Do I have a cell phone?" she suddenly asked Auntie Ding who was beside her.

"Young Mistress, you haven't used your phone for half a month, it has no battery left," Auntie answered without even looking at her.

Xinghe ignored her stuck-up attitude and said, "Then go get me a usable one."

"What are you planning to do?" Auntie Ding asked with caution.

Xinghe smirked and replied, "Why? Worried that I'll call the police to report all of you for domestic abuse? Don't worry, it's just a private call."

Xinghe chose the term 'domestic abuse' purposely.

Even though she had no idea how Xia Meng's life was like but from the way the maid treated her, she didn't have any standing in the Ye Family.

If a lowly maid like Auntie Ding could treat her this way, one could guess how the rest of the Ye family would treat her.

She was probably mistreated by everyone.

Auntie Ding chuckled mirthlessly. "Who cares if you report to the police? It wouldn't have worked anyway. I just feel that Young Mistress has only just recovered from a long illness so it's best to do nothing and focus on resting."

"Did I ask for your opinion? Go get me that phone." Xinghe's tone became several degrees harsher.

Auntie Ding was slightly stunned. Xia Meng today indeed is a bit different from normal.

Auntie Ding was shocked by the sudden authority and strength within Xia Meng. It was not a facade but something that radiated from within her, as if daring Auntie Ding to disobey her…

After some hesitation, Auntie Ding conceded and passed her a cell phone. She believed since Xia Meng had no one to call for help, there was no harm giving it to her.

Xinghe accepted the phone and immediately dialed a number. The number was Xia Zhi's!

After two rings, the phone was picked up and her brother's familiar voice came out from the other end, "Hello, who is this?"

When Xinghe made the call, she was actually quite afraid that the call wouldn't get through.

She was afraid, her past as Xia Xinghe was nothing more than a dream.

She sighed in relief when she heard Xia Zhi's familiar voice.

Xinghe's heart was a sea of emotion but her face showed none. "Hello, I want to talk to Xia Xinghe," she said directly.

She could hear Xia Zhi gasp. "My sister? Who are you, what business do you have with her?"

Xia Xinghe, this person is a real entity! She really exists!

Xinghe lowered her eyes slightly. "I'm one of her old friends, we promise to meet up should I find myself in City T, so I'm taking her up on that promise. Is she home?"

"About that…" Xia Zhi was silent for quite some time before finally answering, "I'm sorry but my sister is in a coma, she hasn't regained consciousness for the past half month."

Xinghe's eyes quivered with excitement. No one noticed her well-hidden giddiness.

I am… no, Xia Xinghe's body is still alive!

But since she was still alive, why had her consciousness gone into someone else's body?

The question appeared in Xinghe's mind. She asked Xia Zhi, "What happened to her? How is her condition now?"

For some reason, this mysterious caller on the phone reminded Xia Zhi of his sister. He felt an inexplicable bond to her and answered her questions truthfully.

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Chapter 270: Taken Away by the Xi Family
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"They found a tumor in my sister's brain but thankfully it is gone now. However, she has been unconscious ever since and the doctors are unable to tell us why."

"The tumor is gone?" Xinghe replied in shock.

"That's right, it was a miracle. It disappeared after her first chemo session, must be from all the good karma my sister collected."

This was definitely news to Xinghe.

Regardless, the fact that the tumor was gone was a good development.

She wasn't as shocked as she would normally be at the news because that was not even the weirdest news that she had stumbled across that day.

"As her friend, I want to pay her a visit, would that be possible?" Xinghe asked.

Xia Zhi replied with some difficulties, "Actually, she is no longer at the hospital, because she was taken away into the Xi family's care. However, when you want to pay her a visit, just come to me and I can take you to her. By the way, miss, what is your name? My sister doesn't have many friends so forgive my curiosity."

Xinghe snuck at look at Auntie Ding who was still looking at her with a guarded expression and Xinghe replied, "My name is Xia Meng, from the Ye Family."

"This is such a coincidence. We have the same surname, Miss Xia. Okay, when you want to pay my sister a visit, just give me a call."

"Thank you…" Xinghe had no choice but to hang up. She couldn't reveal to Xia Zhi that she was his sister.

For one, it would be extremely difficult to convince Xia Zhi and also, Auntie Ding and the bodyguards were watching over her to prevent her from spouting nonsense.

Furthermore, she didn't want to commit to anything before making sure of all the facts.

Being locked up in the asylum was not an option.

Besides, she didn't mind walking in Xia Meng's shoes for a while, maybe she could discover some clues about this weird occurrence.

On the other end of the phone, Xiao Mo was driving and Xia Zhi was riding shotgun. When Xia Zhi put down the phone, Xiao Mo asked, "Who was that?"

"A woman by the surname Xia, she said that she's my sister's friend and wants to meet up with her," Xia Zhi answered.

Xiao Mo was even more curious. "If she is Miss Xia's friend, why didn't she directly call her but instead went through you?"

"You're right…" This raised Xia Zhi's suspicions as well. If she called his sister's phone, someone would still pick it up; so, why didn't she?

"Maybe she is my sister's friend from a long time ago, I remember Xinghe didn't like to use cell phones back then," Xia Zhi guessed.

Xiao Mo nodded as Xi Family's old mansion came into view. "We're here."

Xia Zhi looked at the sprawling mansion and his heart twisted into a knot.

On one hand, he was happy that he was going to see his sister, but on the other, sad that she was still unconscious!

…

Xinghe's entourage also reached Ye Family's villa.

The house was okay in size. It was observable that the Ye family was only rich but not loaded.

Auntie Ding was the first to descend from the car. She ordered coolly, "Young Mistress, come on now. You also know the rules, we can't use the wheelchair in the house."

Xia Meng's legs weren't really incapacitated but one of her legs was lame, giving her an awkward gait.

Xinghe strode ahead of Auntie Ding as she familiarized herself with the unique physiology of her leg.

Auntie Ding looked at her with surprise. Xia Meng was usually shy about walking in public, as if she'd done something wrong, so she had to have a wheelchair whenever she left home.

The Xia Meng before her was someone completely different. Even with the disability, she walked with the presence of a confident supermodel.

Auntie Ding thought to herself, Perhaps the suicide triggered some changes within this woman or else how can one explain the changes?

In the living room, Mrs. Ye and her daughter, Ye Qin, were enjoying their afternoon tea.

Witnessing Xinghe's return, their smiles froze on their faces and their faces immediately turned into masks of annoyance and disdain.

Ye Qin, who didn't look a day older than 20, even rolled her eyes at Xinghe.

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Chapter 271: Such a Failure in Life!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mrs. Ye reacted like she was looking at something dirty. She frowned as she ordered Auntie Ding, "Go get the pot of fire. Don't let her into the house if she doesn't step over the pot 1  , such a jinx, this one!"

The eldest daughter-in-law returned home after a long illness and the first thing to greet her was not concern but repugnance.

Xinghe was all the more certain Xia Meng did not have a good life.

Auntie Ding quickly returned with the pot of fire.

The pot was large and inside the pot were sagebrush and paper talismans…

They really treated Xia Meng like some kind of evil spirit.

"Light it up!" Ye Qin ordered excitedly. Auntie Ding gladly obliged and the things inside the pot combusted with a 'whoosh'.

The flames leaped up instantly, almost the height of half a grown man.

"Quick step over it," Ye Qin demanded like willful child that had been given too much leeway.

Step over it?

Xinghe smirked. The bursting flame aside, the size of the pot alone would give a normal person difficulty to step over it, much less one with a disability like her.

This was a set-up done on purpose to humiliate her.

"Xia Meng, what are you doing standing frozen there? Quick step over it or you're not allowed into this house!" Ye Qi ordered her rudely.

Mrs. Ye also added unkindly, "What? You want to bring the misfortune into my house?"

"From the way I see it, it is the Ye family that bears the misfortune," Xinghe's voice rang clearly across the living room, "If not, would I have attempted suicide inside the house?"

Ye Qin and Mrs. Xi widened their eyes in shock. Xia Meng would not normally say a word no matter how hard they came down on her, but today, she dared to openly defy them…

Mrs. Ye who appeared to have a permanent, dissatisfied scowl on her face scoffed, "You must have lost your mind to say something like that. Fine, if you look down on our Ye family so much, then get lost and don't ever come back!"

"That's right, get lost and don't rely on us Ye Family if you can," Ye Qin supplemented, adding fuel to the fire.

Xinghe smirked and turned to leave.

She really had no intention to stay in a place like this. It was undeserving of her presence!

Ye Qin yelped happily watching her leave, "The dumb woman has nothing on her, she'll only end up a beggar without our charity! I can't wait to see that happen!"

Mrs. Ye ordered Auntie Ding, "Remember to be on the lookout tonight. Don't let her squirm her way back in."

"Yes, madam," Auntie Ding responded loudly.

This bunch of women were all waiting to see Xia Meng fail; they reveled in her misery and were waiting for her to crawl back to them, begging for forgiveness.

After all, this was not the first time Xia Meng ran away from home. She always ended up back at the house after spending a whole day wandering aimlessly outside.

It was exactly because Xia Meng had nothing and no marketable skills that she had no choice but to suffer Ye family's torment.

That was why Mrs. Ye and the crowd of women were not at all worried when Xia Meng turned to leave because eventually Xia Meng would return with her tail between her legs. She would die of starvation without the Ye family.

Little did they know, they were dealing not with Xia Meng but Xia Xinghe!

When Xinghe reached the gate, she ran into a couple that was returning.

The man and woman were taken aback when they saw her.

"Where are you going?" The man demanded with disgust, "Sit quietly if you're so free, why are you traipsing all over the place?"

Based on his domineering attitude, Xinghe had to assume this was Xia Meng's husband.

The woman beside him leaned on his body like a spineless snake. She even smirked at Xinghe provocatively.

Xinghe sighed inwardly. Based on everything she had observed thus far, this Xia Meng sure was a failure at life!

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Chapter 272: Name Your Conditions for a Divorce
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xinghe gave the couple an uninterested side-eye, and continued walking without any regard for them at all.

However, the moment she took her first step, she felt a strong tug on her arm. She stumbled backwards for a bit. If not for Xinghe's innate sense of balance, she would have fallen to the floor.

Xinghe raised her eyes slightly to look at Ye Shen. The eyes that studied this man, who was supposed to be her husband, were emotionless.

The unimpressive looking man malevolently ordered, "Do you not understand human speech? I don't care if you have to crawl back to the house to beg mother for forgiveness, get your ass in there and sit quietly!"

"Miss Xia, Shen Shen ordered you to crawl back in there, did you not hear him?" the vixen repeated Ye Shen's words with evil glee.

Ye Shen's face didn't even twitch with pity seeing his mistress talk to his wife that way.

Xinghe couldn't help but feel sorry for Xia Meng.

However, since she was now the new host of this life, Xinghe was not going to take all this nonsense lying down.

"Name your price for a divorce," she told Ye Shen coldly.

Ye Shen scoffed. "You b*tch, you dare to bring up divorce again! You never learn, do you‽"

He raised his arm and went at Xinghe with a slap—

Xinghe narrowed her eyes instantly. "You better think twice about what you're doing because one wrong step and I'm going to make you regret it for the rest of your life!"

Ye Shen's arm, for some reason, stopped in mid-air.

He was stunned by the sudden commanding aura that arose from Xinghe.

However, the feeling quickly passed. Angered by Xinghe's resistance, the slap went down hard on Xia Meng's face and, before Xinghe could collect herself, she felt a hand grab her chin that pulled her face into Ye Shen's ugly mug. "Not bad, you grew some courage after your suicide attempt. However, Xia Meng, you should know better than to challenge me. How come you can never learn this lesson?"

Xinghe was unfazed and glared sharply at him as if branding him for death. After some time to percolate her thoughts, she said, "Like I said earlier, what do you want? If I can give it to you, I will. I'm sure you're unwilling to keep a wife like myself anyway. So, name your price."

Ye Shen was startled… He realized his wife was being serious.

Previously, when she begged for divorce, she wouldn't have thought to try for a trade. This change was fairly big.

Ye Shen laughed meaningfully. "Do you really have to ask what do I want? I want everything your father left to you."

Everything Xia Meng's father left for her? What did he leave her?

"Give me some time," Xinghe pushed his hand away. "And before then, no one is allowed to disturb and influence my thoughts."

"You're willing to part with them?" Ye Shen was once again startled.

Xia Meng usually treated those things like treasures. He had tried both the easy way and the hard way, but she always refused to hand them over to him. So why the sudden change in character?

"Yes, I'm willing to part with them, but like I said, I need time," Xinghe replied calmly.

Ye Shen stared interestedly at her before smirking. "Fine, I will give you several days' time. You'd better not disappoint me at the end of it because the punishment just now was nothing."

Then, he hugged his fair companion and strutted off with a gloating laugh.

Xinghe stood at the same spot for a while before finally turning back into the house. She needed to find out more about Xia Meng's past.

Perhaps then she would be able to tell why she ended up in Xia Meng's body.

This time, under Ye Shen's orders, Mrs. Ye and the gang didn't bother her. However, they still refused to acknowledge her with even a smile. In fact, they didn't even acknowledge her, she was probably less important than a pet dog to them.

Xinghe returned to Xia Meng's room and started searching through her stuff.

She ransacked the room and finally found a diary hidden under the closet.

Xinghe read it immediately and she got a glimpse into Xia Meng's life.

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
FIVE GOLD RINGS!

(If you know, you know)

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Chapter 273: A Conspiracy and a Dream
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

If one had to sum up Xia Meng's life with a single word, it was misery.

When she was 13, her father disappeared, leaving Xia Meng and her mother to fend for themselves. A single mother with a young, teenage girl, life was not kind towards them.

Regrettably, things didn't take a turn for the better; her mother passed away in a car accident soon after.

She'd lost both her parents before she'd even reached the legal drinking age. Before she met Ye Shen, she depended on her relatives' kindness to survive and those instances of kindness were few and far between.

She was given a temporary reprieve when she met Ye Shen in university. He pursued her with full force and treated her like she was the queen of his world.

Xia Meng thought her luck was going to change then. She believed in Ye Shen's love for her.

She thought she could rely on him for support when he proposed.

Alas, how wrong she was!

The only reason Ye Shen married her was to con out of her hands the things left behind by her father.

Initially, Xia Meng had no idea this was his plan all along because he gently persuaded her to lend them to him because he had never seen them before and he was interested.

She kept on rejecting him. Eventually, he lost his patience and his methods became harsher.

When he laid his hands on her for the first time, she finally realized it was all a conspiracy!

Ye Shen was never in love with her. After the façade was dropped, his disdain towards her was revealed. In fact, the whole Ye Family looked down on her.

When she found out the truth, Xia Meng had something akin to a mental breakdown but that only hardened her resolve. This lead to more abuse at Ye Shen's hands.

Ye Shen stopped treating her like his wife. He would abuse her whenever he felt like it, she was more like a sandbag than an actual person.

Ye Shen, as the man of the house, set an example for the rest.

Domestic abuse, verbal abuse, and emotional torture… these were daily happenings for Xia Meng.

One late night, about half a year ago, Ye Shen came home drunk. When Xia Meng once again refused to hand him the things, he almost beat her to death.

Xia Meng's leg injury happened then.

Ye Shen cracked her left knee and, while she was screaming in pain, trampled all over it. He laughed over her cries of pain and sorrow. Even though the bones eventually healed, she became a cripple.

Suicidal thoughts came to her then. She saw no future for herself. Ye Shen would not give her a divorce if she didn't hand the things he wanted over to him. However, she would rather die than do that.

In the end, that was the choice she made. After another day of severe domestic abuse, she gulped down a handful of pills to try to die from an overdose.

Of course, she failed. However, this did bring about an interesting development because the consciousness that eventually awakened in Xia Meng's body was Xia Xinghe!

But why?

Xinghe read the whole diary from front to back again to find an answer but she got nothing.

The only things of importance were the items that Xia Meng's father left her, the things Ye Shen were eyeing.

Xinghe had a feeling more pieces of the puzzle would be revealed when she found out what those things were.

Xinghe started searching up and down the room again. She even scanned through Xia Meng's computer, to no avail.

Out of options, she used the human flesh search engine 1  on this person, Xia Meng.

To her surprise, Xia Meng's father arrived at City T about 30 years ago. After a few years of courtship, he married Xia Meng's mother. 18 years later, he once again disappeared, leaving nary a trace.

When she saw this information, Xinghe's world was shaken.

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Chapter 274: Something to Do with Project Galaxy
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

This aligned too perfectly with her own mother's appearance and disappearance, because she also arrived at City T 30 years ago and disappeared 12 years ago!

There had to be another similar case, other than these two. Her mind quickly connected the dots and she wasted no time to pull out all the information on Yun Ruobing.

Ruobing's father also arrived at City T 30 years ago and disappeared 12 years ago!

If this was how things were, it should be the same for one of Ee Chen's parents as well…

Xinghe quickly went to search for information on Ee Chen but was quick to realize there was suspiciously little information on Ee Chen's parents floating on the World Wide Web. Xinghe suspected someone had wiped all mention of them beforehand.

Could this be Ee Chen's handiwork? He wiped out his parent's digital existence?

Regardless, Xinghe was at least able to ascertain that Xia Meng was connected to them and probably to the mysterious Project Galaxy as well.

But what exactly was this Project Galaxy and did it have anything to do with the fact that Xinghe was now in Xia Meng's body?

Xinghe tried to contact Ee Chen but he was nowhere to be found. It was as if he had completely disappeared. There was no point locating Ruobing, the girl wouldn't know anything and even if she did, what were the chances she would tell Xinghe?

Xia Meng was even more of a mystery. Whether she was even alive or not was a mystery!

In conclusion, after sifting through everything, the only thing Xinghe could do now was to locate the thing Xia Meng's father left her.

If she was right, it should be the same as the thing Xinghe's mother left her… but where to start looking? She had no idea where Xia Meng hid it.

At that moment, her bedroom door was suddenly pushed open.

In walked Ye Shen with a tray with a bowl of steaming hot noodles.

He gave Xinghe a warm smile, a complete opposite of the man Xinghe saw earlier in the morning. His tone was full of concern and gentleness.

"Xia Meng, how come you didn't come down for dinner? You just got out of the hospital so you have to take care of that body of yours. I had Auntie Ding cooked you a bowl of noodles, here, eat it while it's hot."

Ye Shen walked over and set the tray down in front of her.

Xinghe only then realized that night had fallen…

Her stomach was grumbling but her stomach turned when she laid eyes on this bowl of noodles.

"Aren't you hungry? Come on, dig in." Ye Shen was full of smiles but Xinghe easily saw through his charade.

The man was unbelievable. Did he think Xinghe would just accept his sudden change of attitude like the morning didn't happen? Or was Xia Meng really that obtuse of a person?

"Why aren't you eating? Is it because you are still angry at me? Or do you just look down on me?" Ye Shen played his part to a chilling effect. The questions turned into orders as his expression became laced with viciousness, "I told you to eat! Are you deaf‽"

"Get out," Xinghe commanded without even deigning to look at him, "I will eat the noodles but not when you're still around; your face ruins my appetite."

"What did you say?" Ye Shen's tone became increasingly threatening. "I'm your husband and you dare say that my face ruins your appetite?"

"If you still want the thing then get out!" Xinghe flared up, not at all afraid of him.

Ye Shen was taken aback by this sudden outburst.

He narrowed his eyes as this woman who was his wife and realized the woman was… different.

The fear in her eyes whenever he was around was gone, and there was now fierceness in them…

Could attempted suicide really be such a life-changing experience that it strips away even fear?

Ye Shen was cowed because if she really committed another suicide then he could bid that thing farewell. Since she had the courage to do it once, there was nothing stopping her from doing it again.

He suppressed his rage and offered an obsequious smile. "Alright, if it'll make you feel better then I shall leave. By the way, when will you be giving me the thing you promised… How about after you finished eating?"

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Chapter 275: Make Xi Mubai Believe She Is Xia Xinghe
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

What kind of goal does this man have that he was willing to go to the extent of physical abuse to get the thing from Xia Meng?

Could it be that he knows about Project Galaxy as well? Is he one of them?

Xinghe turned to look at him. "I have a question. Why are you so adamant to get my father's stuff? How does it benefit you?" Xinghe asked directly.

Ye Shen replied with a kind smile, "You don't need to know why I want it, I saw the thing once and know it has its own value. After all, it is of no value to you, so why not give it to me? I promise I will treat you like my pampered princess if you do."

Xinghe felt chilled by that promise. The man was almost definitely lying.

Xinghe nodded, "Can you leave me alone for the night? I need some peace and quiet to make up my mind."

Ye Shen's eyes shone with excitement, he suppressed his obvious glee and said, "Then, I will leave you be. I'll be back tomorrow morning. Sweet dreams and good night."

Ye Shen took his departure after that. He was even considerate enough to close the door behind himself.

Xinghe quickly went up to lock the door!

There was a small trace of fear on her face. I can't stay at this place for long!

Ye Shen is too dangerous. Who knows what he might end up doing to force the thing.

However, escaping wasn't a valid option. She was in a body that was lawfully Ye Shen's wife.

He had all the right to call the police on her should she decide to run and blame it on her poor mental health.

The only solution was to make him give her a divorce. This was, Xinghe believed, Xia Meng's wish as well. She was going to help her make it happen.

With a rough plan in place, Xinghe sat down to eat the noodles. She couldn't work on an empty stomach.

She felt better with some food in her body but she was still relatively weak considering she'd just woken up from a long illness.

However, she believed mind over body. She steeled her resolve and carried on with her plan.

First step was to know everything about this man, Ye Shen.

Ye Shen was your quintessential, second-generation nouveau riche.

He inherited his family's red wine business but the company stagnated in his hands.

A few years ago, it even faced the threat of bankruptcy but received monetary aid from an international company at the last minute.

However, this did nothing to revitalize his business. Therefore, Ye Shen tried to expand his market and with the arrival of the World Wide Web, the next logical step would be the online platform. Ye Shen recently had used much of his company's asset to focus on brand awareness and improvement because he was trying to bid for cooperation with Xi Empire's internet empire.

The bid was in the middle of negotiation. Xinghe's lips curved into a smile when she saw this information.

She had stumbled upon a way to end Ye Shen and Xia Meng's marital status!

However, this method had its risks.

First, she had to convince Mubai that she was Xia Xinghe.

After she gained his trust, everything else would be smooth sailing.

With that in mind, Xinghe started to hack into Xi Family's server, hoping to locate Mubai's personal computer…

…

Mubai was in his study, looking through his emails.

After Xinghe was moved away from the hospital, he'd followed her and moved into the Xi Family's old mansion.

Due to Old Madame Xi's condition, they had easy access to doctors and nurses so they could provide the best support to aid in Xinghe's recovery.

However, Xinghe was still unconscious even though half a month had passed.

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Chapter 276: Who Are You?
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mubai had no idea how he'd survived the past half month.

But from other peoples' perspective, he was still the same. He went about his work and life like usual.

The only difference was that he'd become even more taciturn than usual. He was already a reticent person before this and recent events only made him retreat further into himself and away from human relationship.

He seemed to pour all his energy into his work. There was only 24 hours a day and he worked for 15 hours, which was why he was still checking his work correspondence even though it was already late at night.

When he was scrolling through his mailbox in an almost mechanical manner, his computer sounded an alarm, alerting him that external hacking had been detected.

Mubai snapped into focus. Who hacked into my computer?

His computer was fitted with the best defense system, he was sure no one in the world was able to hack it.

Mubai's surprise didn't stop him from immediately launching his counter-measures.

His opponent seemed to be able to predict his moves. Every single one of his counter attacks were taken down and his opponent kept up the onslaught.

Mubai frowned. The number of people who could rival him in hacking ability could be listed on his fingers. One of them was his ex-wife, 001, who once perfectly deflected his hacking attacks.

This current opponent of his seemed to be at the same level as Xinghe.

Mubai's brows creased with concern and curiosity. Who is this person and what does he want? He has been found out, so logically speaking, he should have made a tactical retreat; so, why didn't he? Why is this person so adamant in hacking into this computer?

Regardless of his opponent's intention, Mubai refused to let him win. After all, his computer had many important business documents; he had to keep them safe!

However, due to the ferocity and capability of his opponent, his defenses were slowly breached…

On the other hand, things were not looking good for Xinghe either.

Her body and spirit were still frail from the recent recovery. Plus, she hadn't gotten used to Xia Meng's physical body. However, she gritted her teeth and powered on.

Finally, half an hour later, she cleared all of Mubai's defenses. She left him a message.

[I come in peace.]

[Who are you?] Mubai responded immediately and he followed it up with a threat, [If you don't explain yourself quickly, I will request a police investigation.]

[My surname is Xia.] Xinghe replied succinctly.

Mubai was startled. His first reaction was, This must be Xia Xinghe! But isn't she still unconscious?

[Who exactly are you?] an agitated Mubai asked, he was all the more curious about his opponent's identity.

Xinghe didn't answer directly, instead she asked, [Do you believe this world has things that even humans can't explain?]

Mubai stared at this line and his eyes dimmed.

[What is your point?]

[My point is, I've experienced something like this. I can't explain it to you in a logical manner, but this is the truth. I know this sounds unbelievable but after I woke up, I found my consciousness in someone else's body.]

Mubai's eyes widened when he read this—

He stared intently at the screen and his heart was beating fast.

[Who are you and what angle are you going for? Be straight to the point. And what do you mean by your consciousness is in someone else's body?] Mubai fired off the series of question. He could feel his heart in his throat.

Xinghe read his questions but, for some reason, was afraid to reveal that she was actually Xia Xinghe.

Will Mubai believe such a preposterous tale?

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Chapter 277: Xia Xinghe Is Finally Awake
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

But what if he doesn't believe me?

Therefore, instead of saying it outright and claiming that she was Xinghe, she decided to first plant a seed of doubt in his mind.

The name of my host is Xia Meng, the Young Mistress of the Ye Family.

Mubai narrowed his eyes at this statement and when he leaned in to type his next question, a maid burst into the study and said excitedly, "Young Master, Miss Xia is awake, she's awake!"

Mubai sprung up from his seat, his heart a bundle of joy.

"Really?" he asked in a hurry.

"Yes, she just woke up."

Mubai was ready to rush towards Xinghe but he hesitated for a moment.

He glanced at his computer and finally decided to shut it down. He then ran to check up on Xinghe.

The doctors and nurses crowded around Xinghe. She had been awake for quite some time when Mubai arrived.

"Xinghe—"

He called her name excitedly when he saw she is really awake. Mubai almost ran to her side, saying, "You're finally awake."

Xinghe who lay on the bed, turned to him and gave him a light smile. "I'm sorry for making you worried."

Mubai's hand that reached out to touch Xinghe stopped in mid-air. No one noticed the curious glow that crossed his eyes.

…

Back at the Ye Family villa, Xinghe stared dumbly at her computer. Why did Xi Mubai shut down his computer so suddenly? Did he think I'm crazy? This is such a headache, looks like I need to talk to him in person.

Xinghe decided to find Mubai the next day, after all, to see is to believe.

With a plan in place, Xinghe went to bed.

This was her first night's sleep since she entered another person's body and she was restless the whole night.

The next morning, Xinghe went through her morning rituals and was ready to go out.

However, she realized her bedroom door was locked from the outside!

Xinghe knocked heavily on the door and Auntie Ding's condescending voice came from the other side, "Stop knocking, you'll disturb the madam's rest."

"Open this now!" Xinghe ordered, "Open this god damn door now."

Auntie Ding replied gloatingly, "Sorry to inform you, Young Mistress but I'm unable to do that. This is Young Master's orders. Without his permission, no one is allowed to open this door. He'll be here soon enough so just wait for him quietly."

Why else would Ye Shen lock her up against her will? To force her to give him the thing obviously.

The man was truly a unique brand of despicable. He went back on his own words, promising he would give Xinghe about a week of free time.

He wanted the thing instantly.

Xinghe had already rejected him once and if she rejected him again, she knew Ye Shen would not let her off easily.

Physically, she was not his match. Sadly for them, she never relied on her punches to take down her enemies to begin with!

Xinghe smiled wickedly and turned back to the computer in the room. Since Ye Shen started the aggression, she was not going to hold back.

To prevent Xia Meng from having too much external contact, the computer in the room was blocked from using internet access.

However, that was child's play for Xinghe. Give her a computer and she could rule the world!

Her fingers flew over the keyboard and in just minutes, she managed to hack into Ye Corps' internal database.

Without anyone realizing, Ye Corps' corporate secrets were released to the world!

Ten minutes later, Ye Shen received an emergency call from his company.

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Chapter 278: Go Make Lunch
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"What‽"

He sat up in a hurry, his face a mask of shock and worry.

The woman who slept behind him clung to his naked body. She asked with concern, "Honey, who it is so early in the morning?"

Ye Shen acted as if he didn't hear her. His face became paler like lightning had just struck him.

"Shen Shen, what's wrong with you?" The woman asked.

"Everything's wrong!" Ye Shen hung up his phone with shaking fingers and quickly leaped out of bed.

"What do you mean by that? Tell me, maybe I can help…" The woman grumbled unsatisfactorily and tried to pull him back.

"Get lost—" Ye Shen shoved her away roughly, his entire body a ball of fury.

Not long after, he stormed out the Ye mansion's front door, not even fully dressed. He climbed into his car and slammed down on the fuel pedal.

Xinghe, who stood beside her bedroom window, smirked as she watched the car driving away.

That should keep him busy for a while.

The leaking of corporate secrets was no small matter. In the worst case, Ye Corps might even face bankruptcy.

Xinghe felt slightly guilty because she'd once promised Xia Zhi to not use her skills for illegal things but she had no choice in this situation.

Furthermore, she found no reason to be kind towards filth like Ye Shen. She wouldn't mind teaching him a lesson.

Even though Ye Shen had run away, Auntie Ding still refused to open the door.

In the end, it was Ye Qin who opened it. She turned her nose up at Xinghe as she ordered, "Xia Meng, get to work. My Ye family doesn't feed you to sit around and do nothing! If you still want to eat, then go cook! Remember, finish cooking before eleven or you can starve for the day!"

After she gave the order, Ye Qin left.

Auntie Ding stepped into the room like she owned the place while she yapped on about the dish Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin liked to eat. The menu she gave had 10 dishes and not one of them was easy.

It was then eight in the morning, even a world star chef wouldn't be able to accomplish their demand, much less her. They were purposely giving her trouble.

Of course, Xinghe would not bend to their will. She walked past Auntie Ding and strode towards the house entrance.

"Young Mistress, where are you going? Didn't you hear the miss ask you to cook‽" Auntie Ding chased after her and asked with a scowl.

"I'm going to buy the ingredients," Xinghe answered softly.

"There are more than enough ingredients in the kitchen. Go in there and start cooking. You need to finish cooking by eleven because that is the time Madam and Miss enjoy their lunch."

Xinghe stared coldly at her, saying, "I'm missing some ingredients for the special menu I'm planning. Don't worry, I'll be sure to cook them a lunch that they'll never forget."

Auntie Ding was confused. She frowned unhappily. "What ingredient could you possibly need? We have everything so start working."

Xinghe ignored her and continued walking.

"Xia Meng, where are you going? Didn't I tell you to go work‽" Ye Qin shouted at her from upstairs.

Auntie Ding immediately told on Xinghe, "Miss, Young Mistress said she needs to go out to buy some ingredients. But I told her we already have everything she could possibly need, so I really have no idea what is she up to."

Ye Qin sneered at her as she stepped down the stairs. "Obviously, she is trying to shirk from her responsibility. Xia Meng, you belong to the Ye family so you have to listen to my every order, do you understand?"

"Well, you heard the Young Miss' orders, right‽" Auntie Ding added pointedly.

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Chapter 279: Females Need to Be Gentle
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xinghe's sharp gaze swept all of them as she replied with a chuckle, "What if I don't want to?"

Ye Qin didn't expect her to reject her order.

Her go-to response was anger.

"You don't want to? You don't have a right to object! Our Ye family hasn't been feeding you out of charity; we will not be crippled by a good-for-nothing!"

Ye Qin purposely brought up Xinghe's physical disability. She even smirked while looking pointedly at her crippled leg.

She was humiliating Xinghe, hitting her point of shame.

Xinghe's didn't mind it one bit, she even nodded at her humiliation. "You're right, you shouldn't keep a good-for-nothing around. Don't worry, I shall show myself out."

Ye Qin blew her top off when Xinghe turned to leave.

She ran forward to block Xinghe's path and laid it into her, "You're openly opposing me, are you? I ordered you to go make lunch, did you not hear me‽"

"You're no longer a little girl so how can the Young Miss of the Ye family scream at someone like that? Where's your sense of decorum?" Xinghe reminded her lightly.

Ye Qin sneered. "You're lecturing me now?"

She glared at Xinghe like a ruffian, like she was a gangster girl.

"Speak, are you lecturing me or not? Who gave you the right to lecture me? You're a good-for-nothing that survives solely on our Ye family's charity so how dare you talk to me like that?"

"Young Mistress, you've indeed crossed the line." Auntie Ding sided with Ye Qin.

That was crossing the line? You people have seen nothing yet.

Xinghe smiled. "I'll repeat myself, this good-for-nothing is leaving of her own accord to save your Ye family the displeasure of taking care of me, so will you let me leave or not?"

"Not, go make lunch! In fact, you are responsible for all the household chores today or I'll personally exact your punishment!" Ye Qin threatened.

Ye Qin's favorite pastime was bullying Xia Meng so how would she let such a good stress-reliever go?

Xia Xinghe inwardly sighed as she looked at Ye Qin.

There is a demon living in all of us, but most people have learnt to keep it under wrap.

However, in Ye Qin's case, she was in possession of another human who she was allowed to bully and abuse without consequences. It required great virtue to not let one's inner demon take advantage of another's weakness but Ye Qin was, in Xinghe's eyes, an indefensible, wild child.

Xinghe narrowed her eyes. "Fine, but I don't know how to cook. If you want to exact so-called punishment, let's see you try."

"You…" Ye Qin was beside herself with anger.

"Fine, you ask for it!" She turned to grab at a nearby broom and swung it at Xinghe.

Xinghe was ready. She grabbed at the broom, twisted it out of Ye Qin's hands and proceeded to land a hit on the back of her hand.

Ye Qin screamed in pain, and almost instantly, a red welt appeared on her pearly white skin.

"Oh my God!" Auntie Ding screamed like she was witnessing a murder, "Xia Meng, how could you attack the Young Miss, are you crazy‽"

She was so angry and shocked, she dropped her usual polite speech.

Ye Qin also didn't expect Xia Meng would counter her attack. She widened her eyes and was as angry as a mad b*tch. "Xia Meng, how dare you hurt me‽ How dare you!"

"Why is it so noisy down there?" Mrs. Ye asked with authority as she sauntered down the stairs.

"Mom, this b*tch just hit me," Ye Qin complained with tears in her eyes.

Auntie Ding pulled on Ye Qin's hand to show Mrs. Ye. "Madam you see, Young Mistress is really too much. One should never resort to physical violence."

When Mrs. Ye saw the bruise on her precious daughter's hand, she was understandably livid.

She glared at Xinghe with extreme fury. "Xia Meng, how dare you rebel against us? Auntie Ding, go teach her a harsh lesson, a lesson that she will never forget!"

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Chapter 280: He Said He Wants to Meet Young Mistress
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Those were the words Auntie Ding was waiting for. She rolled up her sleeves ready to reward Xinghe with some slaps.

Xinghe used the broom in her hand to whip Auntie Ding heavily on her arm.

Auntie Ding didn't expect the sudden hit. She yelped, and her face contorted in extreme pain.

This time, Xinghe's hit was even more powerful than the last. Auntie Ding felt her arm burning with pain.

"Xia Meng, you should've stood there and received your punishment, how dare you fight back!" Mrs. Ye looked like she was ready to swallow Xinghe down whole.

Xinghe's gaze was ice cold. "Why should I? Ye Qin showed disrespect to her elder, she deserved to be punished! Auntie Ding attempted to assault the mistress of her house, she should consider herself lucky I only hit her once!"

"You…" Mrs. Ye and the gang were speechless from sheer anger.

They didn't think Xia Meng had become so aggressive.

She dared say they deserved to be hit…

She must be tired of living, how dare she confront us like that!

"You are disrespecting elders too, so you too deserve to be punished!" Mrs. Ye came forth to try to grab the broom from Xinghe. However, Xinghe pushed the end the broom right into her face, scaring Mrs. Ye so much that she was afraid to make another step forward.

"What are you doing?" Mrs. Ye yelled in fury.

Xinghe smiled coldly at her, her body radiating a majestic aura. "Don't think you can use your seniority to bully me; I will fight back."

What? Mrs. Ye widened her eyes in bewilderment. She couldn't believe her ears and eyes. Is this woman standing before us really Xia Meng?

The Xia Meng they knew at most would punch herself in anger, she never dared to externalize her anger. Before the women of the Ye household, she was always the bullied one.

But now, Xia Meng had turned on them.

And there was strength in her eyes that was previously absent. They were stunned by this change within Xia Meng, but no matter what had possessed her, they would not forgive Xia Meng for defying so openly.

"B*tch, I will make you regret this!"

When Ye Qin leaped at her, Xinghe said with finality, "I will not hesitate to go down on this sinking ship with the lot of you!"

Ye Qin was stunned into immobility.

Xinghe had seen through these group of women. They were all paper tigers, all bark and no bite.

She regarded them coolly and added, "After all, I'm not afraid of death, so at worst, we'll all die together. If you're all not afraid of death, then come at me!"

After she said those words, Mrs. Ye and the gang started to look at her with caution.

Ye Qin took an involuntary step back and taunted her verbally, "Xia Meng, you will die on your own! My brother will kill you this time, just you wait and see!"

Even Mrs. Ye stepped back slightly as she ordered angrily, "Security, take her down immediately! Auntie Ding, go get the guards."

As Auntie Ding ran towards the door, a guard walked in with hasty steps. There was anxiousness written on his face.

He immediately reported, "Madam, we have a guest. It is CEO Xi Mubai from Xi Empire. He said he's here to see Young Mistress!"

What?

Ye Qi was the first to recover from the collective shock. She asked excitedly, "Who did you say is here?"

The guard repeated himself, "CEO Xi Mubai from Xi Empire."

"It's really Xi Mubai‽" Ye Qin could barely contain her excitement because the man of her dreams was exactly Xi Mubai!

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Chapter 281: Xi Mubai Is Here
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Her nervousness infected even Mrs. Ye.

Xi Mubai's sudden arrival brought great cheer to the house like a surprise present from the heavens above.

"Quick, bring me to welcome him! Give the Young Master a call, tell him to come home immediately, tell him CEO Xi is looking for him," Mrs. Ye said excitedly.

Ye Qin ran forward to loop her hand into her mother's arm. "Mom, I'll follow you."

The guard pulled out his phone ready to give Ye Shen a call but was quick to realize the anomaly.

He told Mrs. Ye hesitantly, "Madam… CEO Xi said he wants to meet Young Mistress and not Young Master."

"What?" Both Mrs. Ye and her daughter replied in confusion.

When the guard first came in to make the report, they were too excited by Mubai's name to pay attention to the rest.

Naturally, they assumed he was here on business to meet Ye Shen, not his wife!

Ye Shen turned to glare at Xinghe with contempt and envy. "He wants to meet her? Why?"

Mrs. Ye was still in disbelief. "Did you mishear? Is CEO Xi really not here to meet my Ye Shen but her?"

The guard answered calmly, "I have no idea but that's what CEO Xi said. He's here to meet Young Mistress Xia."

"He has no business meeting her; you must have misheard him!" Mrs. Ye argued vehemently.

Ye Qin nodded. "Indeed, you must have misheard him. Xia Meng is less than human garbage and thus, surely has no connection to someone as important as CEO Xi. How could he be here to meet her? Mom, let's go meet him and ask personally, he must be here to meet my brother, trust me."

Mrs. Ye nodded and led Ye Qin towards the front door.

Xinghe's inner turmoil wasn't visible on her calm countenance.

Xi Mubai is here… The short online contact managed to raise his suspicions? Good, cause I was going to go find him anyway.

Xinghe followed behind the rest. They were too busy focusing on welcoming Mubai that they practically forgot about her.

Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin arrived at the gate soon. A luxurious black limo was parked outside the gate and Mubai was sitting in the back with his window down.

Behind his limo, there were two other vehicles for his bodyguards. The bodyguards stood outside the car door, each one of them sharp and impressive.

Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin's hearts fluttered witnessing this parade. Especially Ye Qin, her gaze was automatically directed to Mubai's perfect features.

She stared at him without blinking, her saliva almost dribbling out of her mouth.

"CEO Xi, we're sorry because we're unable to provide a more presentable welcoming ceremony due to your sudden visit," Mrs. Ye said with utmost respect, "I'm sure you're here to visit my Ye Shen. He just left for work a few hours ago, but I'm sure he will be home soon. Why don't you join us in the house and we shall wait for him over tea?"

Mubai didn't spot Xia Meng so he replied in a chilling tone, "I'm sorry but I'm not here for Mr. Ye. Is Miss Xia home?"

The smile froze from Mrs. Ye's face. Even Ye Qin was pulled out of her reverie. They snuck a look at each other as their mood fell to the floor.

Xi Mubai is really here to meet that cripple! But how is that possible?

Mrs. Ye forced a smile and asked, "You're not here to meet Ye Shen… but his wife?"

She added emphasis to the latter part of her question, insinuating that it was highly inappropriate for Mubai to have a visit with someone else's wife.

Mubai's eyes darkened and repeated as if he couldn't pick up her hidden accusation. "I have something to discuss with Miss Xia, please get her out here."

"She is not home!" Ye Qin added suddenly.

"Who said I'm not home?" Xinghe's calm voice drifted from behind.

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Chapter 282: Get In!
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Everyone whipped their heads around to look at her.

She was walking slowly from inside the house. Even though her leg was crippled but she walked on that pathway like it was a catwalk.

Ye Qin shot her an evil eye. This b*tch is purposely making me look bad!

The sudden face-slap singed Ye Qin's face. She hoped Mubai wouldn't look down on her.

Ye Qin tried her best to salvage her lies. "Big sis, you're home. I remembered you leaving with brother this morning. I must have been mistaken."

Xinghe smirked. "You must go and have your eyes or brain checked then."

"You…" Ye Qin felt pain in her heart.

Mrs. Ye quickly pulled the topic of conversation away. "Xia Meng, it's perfect that you're here. CEO Xi has something he wants to discuss with you. CEO Xi, let's go in and take a seat, I'll go get someone to brew us a pot of tea."

Mubai stared intensely at Xia Meng, ignoring Mrs. Ye completely.

From the moment Xinghe appeared, his eyes had never left her face. He was afraid he might miss out on any one of her expressions.

He was stunned when he saw Xia Meng because he felt the same aura around this woman that he sensed around Xinghe, the confidence of a queen who ruled over all women. This kind of aura was something that was uniquely Xia Xinghe's!

Mubai immediately descended from his car and gazed into her eyes. "Do you know why I'm here?"

His voice was shaking a tiny bit and his eyes were fully focused on her face.

His heart was a mixture of excitement and fear, but he had no idea what he was afraid about…

Xinghe met his eyes and hers were also filled with complex emotions. "I know, you must have found something suspicious."

"…" Mubai tightened his jaw and ordered, "Get in the car!"

This was not the place to talk, and he couldn't wait to find out everything!

Xinghe nodded and followed.

"Wait!" Mrs. Ye stopped her immediately, she asked Mubai rather politely, "Mr. Xi, where are you taking my daughter-in-law?"

The term 'daughter-in-law' struck Mubai's nerve.

"My dealings are none of your business!" he growled at her.

Mrs. Ye was stunned beyond words. She didn't expect such a disrespectful treatment from Mubai, her junior…

Even Ye Qin was stunned by his sudden aggression.

Mrs. Ye's face was red with fury but she still didn't dare to lash out at him. "Mr. Xi, I don't think it is out of place to enquire where you're taking my daughter-in-law. After all, Xia Meng is part of Ye Family."

"From now onwards, I, Xia Meng, have nothing to do with your Ye family, wait for my lawyer's letter!" Xinghe announced icily before bowing down to get into the car.

"Xia Meng, what do you mean by that?" Mrs. Ye tried to pull her out but was immediately blocked by Mubai's tall body.

He stared at her coldly. "Mrs. Ye, please conduct yourself with dignity. I will repeat what she said. From now onwards, she has nothing to do with your Ye Family. If you have any dissatisfaction, please feel free to voice them with me anytime you want."

He then went into car and they drove away.

Mrs. Ye was still standing there in shock…

Ye Qin was doing the same.

What just happened? Xia Meng knew Xi Mubai? What is their relationship? And why did Xi Mubai come to Xia Meng's rescue?

There were too many questions and they squeezed at Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin's heart.

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Chapter 283: He Believed Her
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Mrs. Ye quickly ordered the guard, "Call the Young Master now, get him home immediately!"

"Yes, Madam!" The guard moved to oblige.

…

Back in the car, Mubai raised the partition that separated the driver from the back.

He narrowed his eyes at Xinghe. "You're the one who hacked into my computer last night, right?"

Xinghe nodded slightly. "That's right."

"So, everything you said is true?"

"Naturally."

"So, you're not the original Xia Meng?"

"Correct." Xinghe nodded again. She was still the same as before, as stingy with her words as she could possibly be.

Mubai was shocked. Even though he kind of saw this coming but at that moment, he still had a hard time believing it.

"How could this have happened?" he asked with utter disbelief, "You should understand that no one will believe this."

"I hardly believe it, but it is the truth."

"Do you have any proof that you are indeed… you?"

Xinghe chuckled. "How exactly do you expect me to prove something like that? Regardless, it's okay if you don't believe it because you already helped me get out of the Ye family."

The mention of the Ye family irked Mubai for some reason. That whole family was like a thorn in his heart, he couldn't wait to pull them out.

Even though Xinghe really wasn't Ye Shen's wife, he was furious that she had somehow ended up in Xia Meng's body, who was his wife.

"Did you know, you woke up yesterday," Mubai revealed.

Xinghe was slightly taken aback, but she quickly understood what he meant, "Who is she?"

"No idea but she has been pretending to be you."

From the first moment, he laid his eyes on that woman, he knew that wasn't Xia Xinghe.

No one could mimic Xinghe's indomitable will.

Furthermore, the words left by the mysterious hacker also added to his suspicion.

"I observed her for a whole night and became more and more certain that person couldn't be you, so I came to find you today," Mubai explained, "All this feels like a dream…"

"So, you believe me?" Xinghe asked.

Mubai gazed into her eyes and replied sincerely, "Can I not?"

Xinghe's eyes shook. She didn't expect him to believe her so easily.

She probably needed more convincing to persuade even Xia Zhi but he believed her so readily.

Was it because he knew her too well or something?

Regardless, Xinghe decided not to dwell on it, she was just glad he believed her.

"Take me to see her, I believe that is the real Xia Meng," Xinghe said.

Mubai nodded but his gaze never left.

Xinghe felt his eyes on her and after a while, she couldn't help but ask, "What are you looking at?"

Mubai ignored her question and instead said, "That day when you fainted, I was deeply worried and after I found out about your sickness, I felt my world has ended. I prayed day and night for you to survive and even though you've found an interesting and unexpected way to live, I'm glad."

As long as she was alive, he didn't mind who she became. As long as she was alive…

Xinghe averted her gaze. "I am also glad that I'm alive."

She thought that was the end for her too.

"You knew about your illness from very early on, why didn't you tell me?" Mubai asked a bit sternly. It was hard for him to not be at least a little bit angry for the deception.

"There was nothing to be said. Anyway, currently, I just want to figure out a way to get back into my own body."

Mubai clamped his hands over hers, and said with determination, "Don't worry, you will. I will do everything I can to help you make that happen."

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Chapter 284: I Also Want to See Mommy
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Don't touch me."

His response was a firm rebuff from Xinghe.

Mubai wasn't angered, instead, he felt inexplicably joyful.

He had touched her before… well, they did have a son together, and she never once put up such a forceful resistance.

This meant that she didn't like him touching this borrowed body of hers…

Could it be that she is jealous?

Mubai pulled back his hands and said with a wicked smile, "Alright, I will not touch anyone for now."

He was telling Xinghe he would not get close to either her or Xia Meng.

After all, getting close to either would be equally weird for him. Xia Meng, was at the end of the day, someone else's wife and that complicated a lot of things.

However, Xinghe had a more straightforward way of looking at things. She didn't mind getting into whoever's body as long as her consciousness was still Xia Xinghe.

Of course, her original body would be best.

…

The car finally reached the Xi family's old mansion.

Mubai explained, "I have someone watching over her, and I still haven't exposed her."

"She must have an idea of what's going on," Xinghe added.

Mubai nodded in agreement, if she didn't know what was going on she wouldn't have known to immediately assume Xinghe's character as soon as she recovered.

Therefore, it was logical to assume she knew this would happen.

The car stopped in front of a small villa. Mubai got out from the car to open the door for Xinghe.

Mubai observed the effort Xinghe exerted to pull herself out of the car with her incapacitated leg and he asked with concern, "Do you need a wheelchair?"

"No," Xinghe rejected him politely. If she couldn't overcome a small adversity like this then she really would be a cripple.

"She is just inside, let's go in," Mubai said as he gave her a hand.

"Daddy—" A child's voice called out suddenly. It was Lin Lin. He probably ran over from the main house when he saw Mubai's car crossed the gate.

Hearing his sudden childish voice sent a tremor throughout Xinghe's body.

She turned and saw Lin Lin in a white t-shirt and sports shorts running their way.

The little fella ran into Mubai and turned his cute face up at him and asked beseechingly, "I also want to see Mommy."

This morning, when Lin Lin heard the news that Xinghe had woken up, he was incredibly happy.

He had tried multiple times to get into her room but was stopped by the maid every time.

This was because Mubai had secretly given her the order that no one was to see Xinghe in person.

Therefore, Lin Lin had been waiting for Mubai to return, that way he could see his mother with him.

Mubai rejected the little fella's request firmly, "You can't see her yet, go home for now."

"Why not?" Lin Lin frowned unsatisfactorily. "They said she has woken up, so why can't I see her?"

"Because the doctor said she is still not feeling so well, temporarily no one is allowed to see her. When she's feeling better, you can be with her as long as you like."

Lin Lin narrowed his small eyes at Mubai. "Then, why can you see her?"

"Because I've already taken the vaccine shot," Mubai lied with a straight-face, "She has contracted an infectious disease."

Perhaps he was imagining it but when he said that, he felt Xinghe glared at him unsatisfactorily.

Lin Lin's face was full of worry. "What kind of disease, is it serious?"

"A little bit, but it is curable. Go accompany great grandfather for now, don't come here anymore without my permission."

"But…"

"No buts. If you are still so stubborn, I will forbid you from seeing your mommy even after she recovers." This was the first time Mubai assumed such a harsh tone against Lin Lin, at least in Xinghe's presence.

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Chapter 285: A Party of Three
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Unsurprisingly, Lin Lin was cowed by Mubai's threat.

The little fella pouted and grumbled, "Okay then. I will not disturb her now, but remember to tell her that I will go visit when she's feeling better."

"You have my word."

"Also, give her this." Lin Lin took out a piece of chocolate and passed it to Mubai. "This is my favorite snack. It's very good. Eating one always makes me feel better so I'm sure it'll do the same for her."

"Okay," Mubai accepted the chocolate with a kind smile and turned to look at Xinghe. He saw a flash of gentleness cross her eyes.

"Then… goodbye." The little fella turned to leave.

Xinghe watched as her child walk away and melancholy gnawed at her heart. She didn't even say a word during the brief meeting. She didn't want to spook the child.

"This is for you." Mubai passed her the chocolate and explained slowly, "I don't think it's wise to pull him into this, it'll only confuse him."

"You're right." Xinghe accepted the chocolate and turned towards the villa.

There was determination in her eyes. This brief encounter with her son made her more adamant to return to her own body!

…

After Xia Meng woke up in Xinghe's body, her emotions were complicated.

There was excitement, anxiety, and guilt…

In other words, it was an emotional roller-coaster, big highs and lows.

She didn't expect the experiment to really be successful. But now that it was, she was feeling lost…

She had no idea whether what she did was correct or not but she had no choice.

But the thing that gave her the most anxiety was the fact that Xi Mubai seemed to have started suspecting her.

How else could she explain the fact that he was her only visitor even though she had regained consciousness for quite some time?

Xia Meng needed to find out more information. She asked the nurse that took care of her, "I'm sorry but where is Xi Mubai?"

"Mr. Xi seems to have left the mansion grounds; I have no idea where he went."

"Thank you…" Xia Meng nodded and she couldn't help but ask, "Where is this place and can I go out for a walk?"

"I'm sorry, Miss Xia but not yet, your body is still recovering and Mr. Xi specifically ordered that you're to stay in this room until you're feeling better."

"But I just want to have some fresh air…"

"Without Mr. Xi's permission, you're not allowed to leave this room."

"Why?" Xia Meng felt her heart chill.

"Because you don't have the right to," a crisp yet suspiciously familiar voice suddenly said.

Xia Meng turned to the voice and her eyes widened when she saw the person who walked in.

It was a weird feeling watching her own body not from a mirror but from another person's perspective.

It felt incredibly surreal, like she was in a dream.

Xia Meng blanched when she saw Xinghe walk into the room.

Xinghe's sharp gaze fell on her immediately.

Under her fierce scrutiny, Xia Meng's internal anxiety and anxiousness were amplified.

"Please excuse us!" Mubai told the nurse. The nurse nodded and left silently, closing the door behind her.

Finally, in the room, there were only the three of them.

Xia Meng finally understood everything. Xi Mubai had found out the truth and Xia Xinghe was there to make things straight.

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Chapter 286: You Will Never Become Me
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

She didn't expect things to go sour so soon, not giving her any time to mentally prepare herself.

She wasn't even given the chance to enjoy a few stolen days of happiness…

Then again, maybe this wasn't too bad, at least she wouldn't have to live in constant fear of being found out anymore.

Xia Meng calmed down quickly, took a look at the both of them and decided not to speak a word.

Xinghe's incisive gaze scanned Xia Meng and her lips eventually parted to say, "Aren't you going to explain yourself? Why did we exchange bodies?"

"I have no idea what you're talking about…"

To deny was Xia Meng's go-to response.

Xinghe smirked. "You're still playing dumb at a time like this? Come clean or I'm going to kill you!"

Xia Meng was shocked. Kill me?

Xinghe took a powerful step forward and her eyes were burning with revenge. "I don't mind abandoning my old body, after all it is only a shell, I can live on in this body of yours just fine. But I will make sure you'll forever be asleep, never to wake up!"

"There are indeed many ways to achieve that," Mubai added coldly.

Xia Meng didn't expect them to be so cruel… But she was the one in the wrong.

They could shut down her consciousness, and she knew, with their talents and resources, eventually they would find a way to switch the bodies back. By then, perhaps her consciousness would have been swallowed by darkness.

To be fair, Xia Meng didn't intend to make things difficult for them. She was so browbeaten by Ye Shen's tyranny that denial was her first response.

She actually felt relieved because it was no longer necessary for her to conceal the truth.

"How did the two of you discover the truth so fast?" She asked as she stared at Xinghe, "I thought some time would have to pass before someone would believe something as preposterous as this."

In the end, the whole charade was up in just one night.

This event that bordered on sci-fi was not only readily accepted by Xinghe but also by Mubai as well. This shocked Xia Meng the most.

Xinghe answered coldly, "Your biggest give-away is you'll never be me."

Xia Meng was bewildered. "I don't understand, I haven't even done anything yet…"

"That's the point, I wouldn't have done nothing and allowed myself to be locked up in this room like a prisoner," Xinghe answered slowly. Her eyes were shining with confidence. Her indomitable spirit lit up Xia Meng's common-looking face.

Xia Meng stared at her as if hypnotized, she hadn't seen herself so… beautiful before.

However, she understood it was not because her original face had changed but, as they say, confidence truly is beauty.

In her old life, whenever she looked at herself in the mirror, she would see an ugly, tortured woman.

After her body was crippled, she hated the sight of herself even more.

She hated every inch of her body, and her greatest wish was to swap bodies with a more powerful, stronger woman.

But now, she realized her old self wasn't really as awful as she'd thought…

From the moment Xinghe walked in, she realized even with a limping gait, she carried herself with grace and confidence, unlike her old self which crawled around the house in embarrassment. People looked down on her and she internalized it, which was why she preferred the wheelchair.

She didn't see any redeeming qualities in her old body, but now, she couldn't help but realize it could be quite beautiful…

A change of mind could cause such a drastic change in appearance? Even Xia Meng herself was impressed by the newfound beauty of her old self.

But if that was the case, perhaps she shouldn't have committed suicide…

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Chapter 287: Steal a Few Days
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xia Meng finally understood what Xinghe meant.

The two of them were wildly different. Even after their bodies were swapped, Xia Meng would never be her.

Xinghe would shine no matter what, she didn't need to rely on her face to prove herself.

This showed that beauty truly is skin deep.

Xia Meng couldn't help but laugh at her own stupidity as she lamented, "So the skin is really nothing more than a shell."

Xinghe blinked and asked, "You swapped your body with mine because you hated your own?"

Xia Meng was astonished because she didn't expect Xinghe's words to be so incisive. She saw into her heart easily.

 "You are really impressive, and my intuition was right. From the moment I saw you, I knew you are an incredible woman," Xia Meng looked at her and said, "From then on, I started to envy you. After I did some more research on you, I suppose you could say that my envy consumed me."

"Envy me?" Xinghe smiled in spite of herself, "For what‽"

Xinghe didn't think she had anything worth envying. She was a divorcee, lost both of her parents, and had suffered years of hardship. What is worth envying about that? This Xia Meng must be batshit crazy!

Xia Meng was surprisingly agitated. "You don't understand! From your own point of view, you might think you're just a common woman, but you have to understand that I am more common and worse than you in every way. I envy your courage to climb out of every pitfall and envy your power to change your destiny, I envy your life because it is everything I have ever wanted for myself!"

"So, you decided to profit off other people's hard work?" Xinghe asked pointedly.

Her every sentence was short but straight to the point.

Guilt and self-accusation slammed down hard on Xia Meng. "Not fully… just for a few days, I didn't intend to fully occupy your life."

"What about the people around me? You intended to lie to them as well?" Xinghe added.

Mubai, who stood behind her, frowned. He was already angry enough that this Xia Meng had stolen Xinghe's body but she also tried to abuse his affection for Xinghe, trying to claim it for her own.

This was a massive betrayal, he would punish her but he ultimately couldn't bring himself to do it because she was in Xinghe's body…

Xia Meng snuck a look at Mubai and admitted with a defeated sigh, "That was really not my intention to begin with. I just want to experience a few days of love, to know what it is like to be cherished. I know this is wrong but I'm too weak to stem my desire. You have no idea what my life was like because if you do, you would know why that desire was so strong. Anyone's life is better than mine. As long as I'm someone other than myself, I'm happy, because I'm tired of myself…"

Xinghe hadn't realized Xia Meng's self-condemnation went so deep. This was already a veritable mental illness, not something that could be cured over a day. Regardless, Xinghe had no intention to stick her fingers into other people's business. She was not a charitable therapist compelled by a desire to heal the world.

"Speak, what kind of method did you use to swap our bodies?" she questioned coldly, not one shred of pity for Xia Meng.

Xia Meng thought she could at least move Xinghe with her story since she was a fellow woman.

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Chapter 288: Memory Lineage Technology
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xinghe was as cold as a block of ice.

Xia Meng couldn't hide her disappointment from her failure to elicit any pity from Xinghe. Xia Meng didn't understand that no one was obligated to feel sorry for the weak.

Xia Meng curled up her legs and hugged her knees. "I will not tell you the reason and definitely not the way to switch back, unless you…"

"You are in no position to discuss conditions with me," Xinghe interrupted her.

"Xia Meng, I advise you to not threaten or take advantage of me or I will make sure you regret ever being born. Act smart."

Xia Meng was surprised by Xinghe's hostile and forceful behavior.

"I repeat myself, what kind of method did you use to swap our bodies?" Xinghe asked in a cold voice.

Xia Meng knew she was in no place for negotiation anymore. But if she revealed this, what leverage would she have left? But, what other choice did she have?

Xia Meng didn't expect this to be Xinghe's response. Technically speaking, Xia Meng had the initiative because Xinghe needed the information from her. She should have the upper hand but obviously things didn't turn out as she'd planned.

She realized she knew nothing about Xia Xinghe. No wonder Xinghe could turn her life around…

The strength of her will refused to let others trample on her, not even life itself.

This probably was the thing she was lacking, a will that would not settle for anything less than success. She was as weak as before even after she switched the bodies, this awareness wetted Xia Meng's eyes.

She opened her mouth and asked as a test, "I can tell you everything but will you help me in return?"

Xinghe looked at her wordlessly.

Xia Meng thought back to what she said earlier, Do not take advantage of me… So Xinghe most likely wouldn't help her.

Xia Meng was thrown into despair and her self-condemnation resurfaced, alongside the suicidal thoughts.

Might as well kill myself since no matter how hard I struggle, nothing is going to change. Even after switching into someone else's body, it's still the same. My weakness is something I was born with, nothing is going to change it. So rather than live on as a defect, I should just bid myself goodbye…

Xia Meng who was trapped in despair decided to give up everything. Then, there was no reason for her to hold on to this secret anymore.

"Get him out of the room because I want to talk to you alone," she told Xinghe suddenly. The things she was going to say were too astronomical, perhaps Xinghe, who had personally experienced it, would believe her.

Furthermore, Xia Meng had a feeling that Xinghe had secrets of her own…

To her surprise, Xinghe replied instantly, "He can hear this."

This surprised both Xia Meng and Mubai. He didn't expect Xinghe to show such deep trust in him.

Xia Meng's brows creased. "Are you sure? This might sound like crazy talk to him."

"I'm sure; he can stay," Xinghe confirmed.

Mubai's eyes shook slightly, no one knew how much he valued Xinghe's trust and how great the impact it brought to his heart knowing Xinghe trusted him.

He thought he would need to spend his whole life trying to plead for her forgiveness so he was truly surprised he achieved her trust so soon.

Of course, he would never know that it was because of his unconditional trust in Xinghe that she decided to reciprocate the same amount of trust in him.

Xia Meng saw her insistence so she conceded, "Fine, if that's the case, let's start the story."

She stared at them and asked directly, "Have you guys heard about memory lineage technology?"

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Chapter 289: You're Still You, I'm Still Me
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

This question stumped both Xinghe and Mubai.

Mubai closed his eyes to think. "Memory lineage you say?"

Xia Meng nodded. "That's right."

Mubai retorted immediately, "Even though there are scientists working on this brain technology, no one has achieved success yet."

This was because this was a complicated subject to research. The difficulty was akin to prehistoric man researching genetic engineering.

Although that might not be exactly true, after all, it would be easier for modern man to achieve breakthroughs than prehistoric man.

Xia Meng nodded again. "Yes, theoretically speaking, no one should have achieved success in researching this technique yet… but someone definitely did. Isn't this situation the best proof?"

Xinghe frowned while concentrating. "In other words, you used this memory lineage technology on me? My memory is passed on to your brain and yours mine?"

Xia Meng was surprised she caught on so fast.

She nodded slightly. "That's essentially it. We've only exchanged our memories, so in truth, you're still you and I'm still me. Or stated otherwise, you would think you've become me but that's not entirely true. It's because my brain has too much of your own memory that it overshadows my original memory, it gives the illusion that you've become me, but we didn't actually become each other. Hopefully, that's not too confusing."

Xinghe nodded. "I believe I get it. After all, there are ways to make a person believe he has transformed into another without the use of future technology. As long as his memory was somehow exchanged with someone else's, he could be led into believing he was someone else. It's kind of like hypnosis, just more scientific in nature."

"Yes, it has everything to do with a human's memory and consciousness, but the memory lineage technology is more seamless than that because the memories stored in the brain are real and have actually been experienced. So, with the memory's compulsion, even the person's conscious and subconscious thinking process can be mirrored into someone else's."

"So, who is it that perfected this technology?" Xinghe asked directly.

This was the million dollar question. Even Mubai was curious about the identity of the creator who perfected this wondrous technology.

Xia Meng looked at them and gave them an answer that honestly shocked them both, "My father."

Xia Meng's father?

While Mubai was still in a state of bewilderment, Xinghe seemed to have understood something. "But based on your personal information, your father disappeared many years ago!"

"He did and the research was the thing he left me. He utilized this technology to create something called a memory cell. After you have this memory cell implanted in someone, after a period of time, the cell would copy that person's memory completely. After that, you put the copied memory cell into someone else's body and that person would have the copied memories…"

When Xia Meng reached this part of the story, Xinghe and Mubai understood everything!

"So, Lu Qi is your accomplice‽"

This was a rhetorical question by Mubai and the atmosphere in the room dropped for several degrees.

Other than Lu Qi, who would have the opportunity to implant the memory cell in Xinghe and later extricate it?

Xinghe saw the clarity as well. "When did he perform the implantation? Was it after the car accident, the first time he gave me a check-up?"

"This means, there was no tumor in Xinghe's brain all along?" Mubai questioned.

Xia Meng was once again impressed by these two's intelligence.

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Chapter 290: Steamrolled By Their IQ
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

She only explained a little bit and they figured out everything. No wonder her ruse was discovered so soon because these two were willing to question all anomalies and face them head on.

"Yes, it was Doctor Lu who aided me. Xinghe didn't develop a brain tumor because that was the memory cell."

After Xia Meng explained herself, she felt a great load being taken off her shoulders.

But, what followed next was sadness. Even with the help of high-end technology, her destiny remained unchanged…

She was, and forever would be, a failure.

"Since you have something so impressive, why did you keep it to yourself for so long? I believe that with something as important as this you could have asked for anything, or are there limitations or flaws to the memory cell?" Xinghe asked suddenly.

Xia Meng lifted her head to look at Xinghe and there was disbelief in her eyes, she managed to find this detail out as well. No wonder she said, she would never be her…

"Why would Lu Qi help you? Is it because you promised to share the research of the memory cell with him?" Mubai stared at her and asked.

Before Xia Meng could answer, Xinghe piled on, "Following your logic, to swap the memories back, do we need to rely on the memory cells again? Or we can demolish the external memory cell in the brain to release the brain's original memories?"

Xia Meng was speechless facing their precise and logical extrapolations.

She only revealed a little bit on why their memories were swapped and now they had figured out the whole deal! Even the solution!

It was indeed foolish to fight against people of their caliber, Xia Meng sighed involuntarily in relief that she decided to cooperate with them…

Because even if she didn't, they would figure it out eventually and it definitely would not end up well for her.

"Yes, there is a limitation to the memory cell, I have enough only to use it once. The remaining memory cell fragments were handed over to Doctor Lu for his research…" Before Xia Meng finished her words, Xinghe and Mubai's gaze sharpened.

She quickly tried to backtrack and explain, "But there is still a solution to switch the memory back! Just like what Xinghe said, you can demolish the foreign memory cell in the brain and let the original memory recover but…"

Xia Meng's voice became increasingly soft like she was guilty of something.

Xinghe scoffed. "But there will be side effects?"

At this point, Xinghe might as well reveal she is a mind-reader and Xia Meng wouldn't be surprised. "Yes, there might side effects, you'll forget everything that happens after the memory switch and it might harm your original memory as well."

"Other than this, reusing the memory cell is the only method?"

"Yes… but I'm sure Doctor Lu will soon finish the research and come up with more…"

In other words, even though she had learnt everything, it would not be easy for Xinghe to trade her memory back.

This was the first time Xinghe felt the fiery touch of helplessness. It burnt Mubai as well. He needed something or someone to vent on. "Let's go find Lu Qi. No matter what, we have to make him switch your memory back as soon as possible!"

Xinghe nodded, the visit to Lu Qi was inevitable.

Xinghe stared at Xia Meng and the latter squirmed under her fierce scrutiny.

"Where is your father?" she asked coldly.

Realization hit Mubai like a bulldozer. Xia Meng's father was the original creator, locating him was probably the fastest way to help them switch their memories back!

"I have no idea." Xia Meng shook her head. "I have not heard from him since he disappeared."

"Other than the memory cell, what else did he leave you with?"

Xia Meng looked at her dumbly…

She intended to keep this last secret to herself. Even though she suspected Xinghe knew something but, unless truly necessary, she really didn't want to reveal this information.

Translator's Thoughts
Lonelytree Lonelytree
These seven chapters are sponsored by seven swans a-swimming.

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Chapter 291: Last Two Questions For You
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"There's nothing else," Xia Meng answered.

Xinghe narrowed her eyes at her. "Are you sure?"

"Of course…" Xia Meng shook her head for emphasis but she felt Xinghe had seen through her.

Xinghe didn't continue this line of questioning, instead she questioned, "Then, how come I have a sneaking feeling the memory cell is not what Ye Shen wants?"

Xia Meng's expression froze.

"Ye Shen has absolutely no clue about the memory cells. What he wants from you is something else completely, something more important than the memory cell technology!" This time, there was vehemence behind Xinghe's words.

Xia Meng's face paled and her hands were sweating from nervousness.

However, she bit her tongue and didn't say a word…

Xinghe witnessed this and decided not to press her anymore. She said softly, "I have two last questions for you."

"What?"

"Was it your initial intention to completely wipe out my original memory?"

Xia Meng looked at her like she was staring at a demon. How could she possibly know about this‽ This is impossible!

Xinghe was only hedging her bet because she did dream about her own death. Therefore, it was a logical assumption to make that Xia Meng initially wanted her to believe she has died.

Now, witnessing Xia Meng's reaction, she was certain Xia Meng's original plan was not to trade their memories but to wipe out hers completely.

After all, her secret would only really be safe after Xinghe's consciousness was deleted.

Trading memories was only buying her more time until Xinghe came knocking on her door, demanding an explanation.

In conclusion, Xia Meng wanted to completely obliterate Xinghe's memory in the beginning but, for various reasons, that plan was derailed…

After confirming this conspiracy against her, the air around Xinghe froze.

However, she didn't blow up, if anything, her tone got chillier when she continued, "Second question, have you heard of Project Galaxy?"

Xia Meng's already wide eyes opened even further.

Even without her verbal confirmation, Xinghe had verified everything she needed.

"Xia Meng," Xinghe called her name softly, her voice seemed to come from another dimension, "I wish you to stay put because this is your only way out. Consider yourself lucky for choosing to cooperate early on, or you would have hell to pay for what you did to me! Be obedient and we'll keep you alive. Remember everything I said - because I'm a woman of my word."

Before Xia Meng could recover from her shock, Xinghe had already left. Mubai followed closely behind and ordered his guards to watch over Xia Meng.

…

After they'd walked a certain distance away, Mubai asked hurriedly, "What is this Project Galaxy and what is its connection to you?"

The name of Project Galaxy was too much of a giveaway. It was hard to believe it had nothing to do with Xinghe; in fact, it gave the feeling that it had everything to do with Xinghe…

Xinghe shook her head. "I have no idea what is it."

"You have no idea? Then how would you know of its existence?" Mubai frowned.

"I heard it from someone else, the actual content of the project eludes me as well. But I do know the people that are connected to this project."

"Who?" Mubai asked seriously.

Xinghe stared at him, gauging the options in her mind.

She did trust him but she was hesitant about revealing everything to him. After all, this was her trouble to deal with and it might be dangerous; she didn't want to rope him into it.

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Chapter 292: A Black Box
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

However, she had the common sense to realize that it was futile keeping this from him. He would find out, if not from her then from someone else.

"My mother, Yun Ruobing's father, Xia Meng's father, and one of Ee Chen's parents. Currently, these are the people that I know are related to the project," Xinghe admitted.

Mubai was stunned. He wasn't expecting Ruobing and Ee Chen to be involved in this mysterious project as well.

"What else do you know?" Mubai followed up, "And what did your mother leave you?"

"A black box, but it's useless, or rather I have no idea how is it useful yet."

"So you suspect everyone else was given this black box as well?" Mubai guessed.

"Indeed."

"I will help you get to the bottom of this; don't hesitate to ask for my help if you need it," Mubai offered.

Xinghe raised her eyes to look at him and nodded slightly.

"Thank you."

Mubai wanted to tell her,  You don't need to thank me. But this kind of partnership-esque relationship, where both party had equal give and take, was the best he could achieve for now. A few too many forceful steps forwards and he would chase Xinghe off.

It had taken him a lot of effort to finally reach this stage so he couldn't risk it all for naught. He had to be extra careful in his quest to redeem himself. Perhaps one day, he would find a way back into her heart…

Mubai darkened his eyes as he thought about all of that and said in a low voice, "For now, let's go see Lu Qi."

"Okay."

Before they departed, Mubai gave Lu Qi a call. The doctor seemed to have guessed the purpose of his call and visit, and he said, in an exceptionally calm tone, over the phone, "Come meet me at my lab."

Lu Qi had his own personal medical science lab which focused solely on medical science research.

When Mubai and Xinghe arrived, Lu Qi was in the lab working on the memory cell technology.

He showed no surprise when he saw that Mubai walked in with Xia Meng. He smiled lightly. "I didn't expect that you guys would get here so soon."

Mubai was bellicose towards this good friend of his. "Why did you do it? You know full well, Xinghe is the mother of my child!"

Lu Qi turned towards Xia Meng and enquired, "Miss Xia Xinghe?"

"Yes, it's me." Xinghe nodded.

Lu Qi apologized, "I'm sorry for what I did but please believe me when I say it was not my intention to swap your life. This was Miss Xia Meng's bargaining chip so I had no choice but to perform the experiment on you. But I assure you this is temporary because I will switch you back soon."

Xinghe did not accept his apology. "What if the switch back fails?"

Lu Qi chuckled. "Why so pessimistic? I'm sure the research will be a success but even if it doesn't work, we can always remove the memory cells in both of your brains but this might harm your existing memory."

Xinghe had lost her memory once before and she didn't like it so she was averse to this second solution. However, she understood if there was no other option, this would have to do.

"When will the research be complete?" She asked directly.

From her question, Lu Qi realized Xinghe was still more partial towards recovery via memory cells. "A lot of progress has been made recently, we need one last breakthrough and the technology will be perfected."

Mubai scoffed. "In other words, there is no guarantee it will be successful?"

"The predicted success rate is currently at seventy percent. You have to understand that this is a wonderful event that will aid greatly in mankind's advancement, so I had to silence my conscience and let Miss Xia down; however, please believe in me because I will return everything to her," Lu Qi said earnestly.

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Chapter 293: An Extremely Scary Thought
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"How can you expect us to believe you when did something like that to harm Xinghe?" Mubai took a step forward and stared his friend down.

Lu Qi hung his head in shame. "You're right, I'm incredibly sorry."

"Lu Qi, our friendship is over!" Mubai announced flatly. Lu Qi's eyes quivered slightly and his face fell.

"I understand. I'm not qualified to call you a friend anymore," he said softly and accepted this development.

After all, he deserved this treatment for betraying his friend's trust.

"Doctor Lu, are you the one who preserved my memory?" Xinghe suddenly asked.

Lu Qi was startled before he understood what she meant.

"Xia Meng's original plan was to completely erase my memory, wasn't it?" Xinghe pressed on.

Lu Qi laughed self-deprecatingly. "I'm impressed you found that out as well. Yes, her original plan was to erase your memory and assume your life completely. She doesn't want to be Xia Meng anymore. She couldn't bear living her old life."

"Then, why was my memory saved in the end? And why did Xia Meng pick me? We didn't even know each other before this happened," Xinghe questioned.

Mubai was shocked. Could it be that it was really Lu Qi who preserved Xinghe's memory and, in essence, kept her alive?

He had the same questions as Xinghe. Why would Xia Meng pick Xinghe's life to assume, as Xinghe said, they didn't know each other…

Lu Qi sighed and began explaining, "At the end of the day, this is all my fault. I was mighty impressed by the courage and intelligence you showed at Lin Lin's birthday party. One time when Xia Meng came for physical and psychological therapy, I saw how depressed she was so I told her your story, hoping it would impress some courage and inspiration into her. But what I did was trigger an obsession. She would ask me to tell more stories about you whenever she came for her sessions." Here Lu Qi scratched his chin and continued shyly, "Since I'm also quite interested in Miss Xia as a person so I did some research on my own. She too wanted to know all about that…

"Perhaps your tale touched her so much that she became overly envious of you. Finally she decided she wanted to be you. I knew this was a psychological illness because she thought becoming you would pull her out of her misery and it was the only ray of hope she had in her life. She did request me to wipe out your memory completely so she could completely replace you but I rejected. Finally, she compromised with a memory swap, after all, her goal was to escape from the Ye Family."

So that was the entire story… Every piece of the puzzle fell into place.

Right then, Xinghe was struck with a scary realization.

Perhaps the woman who married Mubai in her earlier dream wasn't Chu Tianxin but herself, only it was the Xia Xinghe who was already replaced by Xia Meng!

If Lu Qu didn't somehow save her memory, the consciousness of Xia Xinghe would be dead.

Then, Xia Meng would've replaced her and ended up with Mubai. Of course, since Xia Meng wasn't the real her, she wouldn't truly treat Lin Lin as sincerely as she did.

Lin Lin ran away from home probably because he felt neglected by his own mother…

The more Xinghe thought about it, the more certain she felt this was what her dream was trying to communicate!

For so long, she thought that, after removing Chu Tianxin, her son would be safe, but she was wrong.

After Chu Tianxin, there was still Xia Meng!

If Lu Qi didn't insist on keeping her memory, Xia Meng's plan would succeed.

She was not afraid of death, but she was afraid Lin Lin would end up with a mother that was really not his mother! His tragic death wouldn't have been altered!

Therefore, even though Lu Qi did fail her, she was still thankful he decided to keep her memory alive.

"I'm willing to put this past us if you successfully transfer my memory back," Xinghe said.

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Chapter 294: One Month Limit
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Both Lu Qi and Mubai were surprised by her promise.

Lu Qi's face lit up immediately. "I swear on my life, I will change you back!"

"Remove the memory cell now!" Mubai said suddenly.

He couldn't wait any longer. He wanted Xinghe to return to her old self immediately.

Alas, he wasn't the one who made the decision in this relationship. "No way." Xinghe vetoed his decision without even giving it a thought. "I will not risk my old memories."

Every single one of her memories were important to her. They shaped who she was as a character. If she lost even one of them, it would make her feel like a part of her was missing. She didn't like the idea of being incomplete.

"But what if the memory cell research is stuck and can't be finished?" Mubai asked with concern, "You're going to stay like this forever?"

"Of course not, if there is no progress in the next month then we will opt for the other method," Xinghe said as she looked at Mubai. He saw the steeled determination in her eyes. She was serious and no one was going to change her mind.

Mubai nodded silently. "Fine, we'll set the limit for one month."

After all, he didn't want to harm Xinghe's memory either…

He understood her point of view, she was afraid the memory loss might affect her.

"I will try my best within this one month!" Lu Qi promised.

"Tell me if you need anything," Mubai told him begrudgingly. Even though he was still furious at Lu Qi but for Xinghe's sake, he was willing to lend his aid.

Lu Qi nodded. "Then, I will take you up on your offer, Mubai. You have to understand that this is important research. We're lacking in great minds, especially in this new age of ours, but if we can preserve their memory, it will be instrumental to the advancement of mankind…"

"That has nothing to do with me!" Mubai declared coldly before walking out of the lab.

He didn't care about the betterment of humanity… all he ever wanted was for Xinghe to return to her old self safe and sound!

…

After Xinghe and Mubai got into his car, he didn't start the engine immediately. Instead he asked, "Do you mind if I smoke?"

"I don't mind."

Mubai lit a cigarette and the car was instantly filled with the smell of cigarette smoke but it was quickly cleaned by the internal air purifier.

Xinghe had no idea what was on Mubai's mind and she wasn't really that interested to find out so they sat in each other's company quietly.

After Mubai finished his cigarette, he told her softly, "Stay away from the Ye Family for now, I will help you find a place to live and have people watch over you. After Lu Qi finishes his research, we will switch back the memory immediately."

This was indeed the safest arrangement, but Xinghe had other plans in mind…

"I'm going to make a trade with Xia Meng, a divorce from Ye Shen for the things in her possession."

"No way!" Mubai rejected her plan immediately. "You cannot have any more interaction with that Ye Shen guy, I will figure out a way to get that thing from Xia Meng."

"What way?" Xinghe pressed. "Even faced with Ye Shen's threat of murder, she refused to give the thing to him. What other brilliant idea do you have in mind that could make Xia Meng surrender the things?"

"No matter what, you are not to have further interactions with the Ye Family people," Mubai said firmly.

Even though the woman beside him was not really Xinghe but he still couldn't bear the thought of her interacting with Ye Shen.

Even though it was just Xinghe's memory, he refused to let another man meddle in their affairs.

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Chapter 295: He Has the Thing as Well
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Xi Mubai, you are not the master of my life. Plus, my decision has been made; I need this thing in Xia Meng's possession," Xinghe told him. She was not asking for his permission; she was only informing him out of courtesy.

Mubai stared at her for a while before sighing. "Sometimes, I wish you could be a little more… fragile, and not try to take on the whole world on your own."

Also, if she were a little more fragile, she might need to rely on me a little more.

"I still need your aid." Xinghe held his gaze. "In my current situation, I do need to depend on your help."

Mubai smiled happily like a child who was given a sweet treat.

"Okay, I will respect your decision, but you have to promise me to let me take care of your safety." A small compromise from Xinghe had managed to turn his downturned frown upside down.

The corners of Xinghe's eyes quivered and she nodded. "Thank you."

"You don't need to thank me, really." Mubai uttered with utmost seriousness before starting the engine with a smile.

After they returned to Xi Family's old mansion, Xinghe also managed to convince Xia Meng.

She promised Xia Meng, she would help her get a divorce from Ye Shen and distance herself from the Ye Family. After the memory was returned to their original owner, Xinghe would also help her set up a new life and ensure she could live a carefree life for as long as she may live.

Even with such good conditions, Xia Meng was still initially hesitant to agree to the trade but one sentence by Xinghe finally changed her mind.

"Keeping the thing will only bring you more trouble."

This was like a wake-up call for Xia Meng. When she thought about it, it was indeed the thing that started her spiral down into a life of misfortune…

"Fine, I promise you but you have to tell me, what is Project Galaxy?" Xia Meng asked curiously, thinking Xinghe already know everything.

When Xia Meng heard Xinghe's name from Lu Qi, she suspected she had something to do with it. The name was too much of a giveaway…

Xinghe was curious as well. If this girl doesn't know what Project Galaxy is, why does she hang on the thing like her life depends on it?

"Your father didn't tell you anything before he left?" Xinghe posed her own question.

Xia Meng was deep in thought as she answered, "The only thing he said was with this thing, I will eventually find him, but I have no idea how to use it."

Xinghe's eyes shook slightly. This was very much similar to what her mother told her…

Therefore, her suspicion was confirmed, with the thing in hand, she could one day see her in person.

"How did Ye Shen know you have such a thing in your possession?" Xinghe followed up.

Xia Meng shook her head. "I have no clue, we didn't know each other before he approached me."

Xinghe lowered her head in thought and when she lifted her eyes, she had already reached a conclusion, "He has the same thing with him as well."

Xia Meng was shocked!

"You mean, he has this thing too? He knows about Project Galaxy‽" Xia Meng gasped in surprise.

Xinghe nodded. "Most likely, it's the most logical conclusion. Furthermore, I believe he has more information on this Project Galaxy than us or else he wouldn't have found you."

Xia Meng's eyes flashed with hatred with the mention of Ye Shen. "You have to get the thing away from him! If you foil his plan, I will gladly hand the thing I have over to you!"

"Naturally, so do not forget your promise."

Just like this, Xinghe and Xia Meng entered a contractual relationship.

Xinghe started planning how to get the thing from Ye Shen and how to get more information on Project Galaxy.

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Chapter 296: Assigned Her Ten Bodyguards
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

For some reason, Xinghe had a feeling this Project Galaxy was bigger than she'd initially assumed.

She didn't know a lot things about the project because much of the information was hidden in places where danger lurked.

If there was danger, she had to know everything ahead of time so that she could prepare in advance.

She believed that one doesn't prepare to lose but only lose to prepare.

Therefore, she must gather the black boxes in Xia Meng and Ye Shen's hands.

Furthermore, she would tease out more information from Ye Shen. Therefore, this memory switching with Xia Meng may not be such a bad thing.

To get started, Xinghe started looking into Ye Shen's father, the Mr. Ye that she'd just realized wasn't around.

Unsurprisingly, Ye Shen's father also appeared in City T 30 years ago, and disappeared 12 years ago.

In conclusion, Xinghe realized Ruobing's, Xia Meng's and Ye Shen's fathers all had to do with Project Galaxy.

So, why was hers alone her mother?

There were too many mysteries that needed to be solved and she swore she would get to the bottom of it all.

…

That day was an eventful day for the Ye family as well. Too many things had happened over 24 hours; the number of significant events was beyond their wildest expectations. There were too many shocking revelations.

How in the world would Xia Meng know Xi Mubai? Xi Mubai was a legendary character in the whole of Hwa Xia. Even when Ye Shen tried to negotiate the deal with Xi Empire, it wasn't even Mubai who interviewed him. Mubai probably didn't even care to find out Ye Shen's name.

However, this business legend not only knew Xia Meng but he'd taken her away! When Ye Shen received this news, he was stunned beyond words.

However, after he calmed down and thought about it, this development might prove beneficial to him.

From what his mother told him, Xi Mubai was highly protective of Xia Meng. Ye Corps' recent corporate secret leak combined with years of inexperienced management was slowly pushing it towards bankruptcy.

If he would get Xi Empire's help through Xia Meng, all his business troubles would be gone.

The more Ye Shen thought about the plan, the happier he became. However, he was the happiest with himself because he had the foresight to trick Xia Meng into marrying him so many years ago. She turned out to be such a useful tool.

The thought that Xia Meng wouldn't help didn't even cross his mind. He was certain Xia Meng would forgive him after a few sweet words and begging. The girl was too pliable.

Ye Shen was satisfied with his plan and waited happily at home for Xia Meng to return. That morning he was so worried Ye Corps was over, but now his savior appeared in the form of Xia Meng. As long as he could cheat Xia Meng into believing he truly loved her then all his problems would be solved.

Ye Shen waited for Xia Meng to return the whole day but, needless to say, she didn't make an appearance.

Finally, he decided to personally find her at Jade Purple Villas.

Of course, Mubai didn't want to see him so he got no information about Xia Meng's location. To prove his sincerity, Ye Shen planted himself before Xi Family's house gate. No matter how hard the security asked him to leave, he wouldn't budge.

When Xinghe heard this, she couldn't help but laugh.

"Then let him wait, tell him where I am tomorrow morning," she told Mubai over the phone.

"Okay. But be careful of your safety, call me if you need anything. Is the security there enough?" Mubai's voice was laced with concern.

Mubai had already assigned her ten bodyguards at the villa he situated her in.

Xinghe observed the troop of bodyguards that patrolled downstairs and smiled at Mubai's excessive worrying.

"You don't need to worry; the guards here are more than enough. Ye Shen is not that hard-pressed that he'll do anything crazy… yet."

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Chapter 297: Xi Mubai Values Her So Much
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

However, Mubai still couldn't calm his worried heart, even though he knew Xinghe could handle this on her own. With her intelligence, no one would be able to endanger her easily.

He really did trust in her but the heart does what it wants. No matter how incredible he knew Xinghe was, the worry wouldn't stop.

Mubai hung up and laughed at himself, wondering when he became such a woman…

…

Ye Shen actually did spend the whole night in front of the Xi Family gate. This was probably the sincerest he had ever acted towards Xia Meng and he was rewarded with Xia Meng's location.

Early the next morning, Mubai had someone inform him Xia Meng's location.

Ye Shen paid his thanks and quickly drove to find his wife.

When the address came into view and Ye Shen realized it was a villa not one bit less impressive than his own house, his blood started to boil.

This b*tch has the audacity to enjoy life here while I sweat outside her lover's house‽

Yes, he suspected there was something more ambiguous to Xia Meng and Mubai's relationship, and this place only confirmed his suspicion. Mubai wouldn't find his wife such a good place to stay if their relationship was only strictly platonic!

Ye Shen straightened his crumpled suit and pressed the doorbell… Soon, Xinghe was given notice of his arrival.

"Let him in," Xinghe ordered.

"Yes, miss."

The bodyguard left to bring Ye Shen in.

Ye Shen walked into the villa and was shocked to notice the number of armed bodyguards around. He was surprised Xi Mubai cared so much about Xia Meng.

When he saw Xia Meng leaned against the sofa drinking tea, he immediately put on a worried face. "Xia Meng, where were you yesterday? You had me so worried, I was all over town looking for you. Finally, I resorted to waiting a whole night in front of the Xi Family's mansion, hoping you'd appear!"

People who weren't in the know probably would be touched by his declaration.

Xinghe though raised her brow and asked, "You were worried about me?"

Ye Shen nodded solemnly. "Of course, no matter what, you're my wife! Quickly tell me, did Xi Mubai do anything to you after he took you away?"

"So what if he did?" Xinghe asked softly.

Ye Shen blew up immediately. "I will tear him a new one! You're my wife, no one can touch you other than me!"

You sure did a lot of 'touching' to Xia Meng, that much is true.

"I'm fine, you're here just to ask me about that?" Xinghe put down her cup and laid back down the sofa.

Ye Shen was honestly disappointed Mubai didn't do something to Xia Meng, because that would've given him more bargaining chips. Then again, Xia Meng was a cripple, what man would willingly touch her?

"You're really fine?" Ye Shen looked her up and down with concern. "If that's the case, why did Mubai take you away? I thought he went over to find me. How do the two of you know each other?"

This was the first sincere question he asked from the moment he came in. That was what he came to find out: the nature of the relationship between Xia Meng and Xi Mubai and how that could be of advantage to him.

"Whether we know each other or not has nothing to do with you," Xinghe said firmly.

"How can it have nothing to do with me? I'm your husband!" Ye Shen lamented as he clutched at his heart dramatically. "I know, Xia Meng, you still hate me, right? But you have to understand, after you attempted to commit suicide, regret has been my constant companion. When I saw you lying half-dead on the hospital bed, I finally realized I cannot live without you… My deep love for you was awakened then!"

Xinghe was feeling regret as well, regret that she had swallowed the tea in her mouth because she wanted so badly to spit it at his face.

"Xia Meng, everything I said is true. I'm sorry, now can you please follow me home?" Ye Shen stepped slowly towards Xinghe but before he even came close, a document landed squarely on his ugly face.

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Chapter 298: The Pig Doesn't Deserve to Be Forgiven
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

The slap was loud and clear, a humiliation to Ye Shen.

Behind the initial shock, there was a flash of enmity in his eyes that didn't elude Xinghe's detection. When the document fell to the floor and he saw the words 'Divorce Settlements' on it, his face fell.

"Save the love words for your mistress and sign this," Xinghe ordered coolly.

Ye Shen raised his head and narrowed his eyes at her. "You still want to get a divorce from me?"

"Affirmative, you must sign this today. No words will change my mind."

"I will not sign this!" Ye Shen picked up the papers and tore them into pieces. "Xia Meng, you are my one and only love…"

Another piece of document came flying at his face, and this time he caught it with his hands.

Xinghe put down a stack of documents on the table and stared coldly at him. "I have more in the office so we can do this all day if you'd prefer."

"Xia Meng, how dare you do this‽" Ye Shen flared up like she was in the wrong, "I've apologized, what more do you want?"

"A pig like yourself doesn't deserve to be forgiven," Xinghe lampooned him.

"You…" The demon bubbling underneath the surface threatened to make an appearance but Ye Shen swallowed hard and put up a forced smile. "Xia Meng, no matter what you do, I will not sign the divorce paper. In this life, you can only be mine…"

"Men!" Xinghe didn't want to waste time with this cretin anymore. "Toss him out."

"Yes!" The two bodyguards who were guarding Xinghe moved forward to pull Ye Shen out the door.

"What are you doing? Let go of me!" Ye Shen struggled angrily. He tried to hit the two bodyguards but ended up taking a few hits himself.

Ye Shen knew he was no match for them so he turned to Xinghe.

"Xia Meng, I know I've done wrong! Please forgive me and follow me home. I swear I will treat you better, baby, honey…"

"Quick toss him out!" Xinghe ordered sternly. Ye Shen's words were making her feel like retching.

Even the bodyguards had heard enough. They clamped their hands over Ye Shen's mouth and dragged him out the door before throwing him roughly out the gate!

"We're warning you, if you dare to come disturb Miss Xia again in the future, this will be just a taste of what's to come!" a bodyguard warned. Ye Shen was so pissed off he could've killed them, but he didn't dare to lash out at the men.

Of course, he wasn't afraid of the security but the boss behind them.

Even though he was taught a serious lesson, overall, he was happy because he realized Xia Meng's relationship with Xi Mubai was definitely unusual. He was incredibly protective of her. This meant that he had a great leverage over the business giant.

In his mind, the wife was the husband's property and she could not survive without nourishment from her husband. Therefore, he truly believed that Xia Meng would eventually need to return to him. For now, he only needed to grind down her defenses because what is a woman without her man?

Every day, he went to look for Xinghe. Of course, he was denied entrance so he begged, knelt, cried, and pleaded…

After the security reported his actions to Xinghe, she felt alarmed, an unease greater than when he physically threatened her.

A man who disregards his dignity for the sake of profit is the most dangerous man of all.

The embarrassment he suffers now… he definitely plans return tenfold later if he gets control over Xia Meng again.

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Chapter 299: The Ye Family Doesn't Deserve Her
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

Xinghe couldn't help but feel sorry for Xia Meng. She felt compelled to help Xia Meng get away from this kind of person or she would be in hell after their memories were switched back.

To that effect, Xinghe was going to crush Ye Shen while she was still Xia Meng.

Xinghe stalled Ye Shen for about a week until Ye Shen's company couldn't hold on anymore.

To show his 'sincerity', Ye Shen had been bugging Xia Meng day after day, ignoring his business responsibility, but Xinghe showed no signs of softening her stance.

With candles burning on both ends, Ye Shen was as anxious as an ant on a hot pot. His face became haggard and dark circles appeared under his eyes.

Mrs. Ye couldn't stand seeing her son like that anymore, so she took Ye Qin along to personally accost Xinghe.

She assumed, with her position as the mother-in-law, Xia Meng would bow down to her seniority and authority.

To demonstrate her standing over Xinghe, she exerted her influence the moment she got out of the car. Mrs. Ye ordered the guards like she owned the place, "Go get Xia Meng out here to welcome me! If she refuses then I'm going to stay here all day and let everyone see the way she treats her mother-in-law!"

After the guard went in to report, Xinghe actually came out to meet them.

Mrs. Ye smirked triumphantly when she saw Xinghe. "Xia Meng, you are a disgrace our Ye family! As long as you're still part of the Ye family, you have to carry the name with grace and pride, so how can you act like this and bring shame to our family name? Follow me home this instant, do you hear me?"

"A disgrace?"

Ye Qin couldn't help but chime in to berate Xinghe, "Indeed, Xia Meng, you are a disgrace because you are a slut! You seduced Xi Mubai and refused to leave his place, have you forgotten that you are still married? For shame!"

"Do you have everything they said recorded?" Xinghe turned to the guard and asked.

The guard nodded. "Don't worry, Miss Xia. It's all recorded."

"Well done, if they continue to slander my name, have the recording sent over to Mubai. Let him deal with it."

"Yes!"

Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin's faces fell. This b*tch dares to threaten us by bringing up Xi Mubai?

Ye Qin's fury burst out into the open. "Xia Meng, don't think that, simply because Xi Mubai favors you, you can do anything you like. He will see through your tricks sooner or later; you belong to my brother anyway, so you'd better keep your actions clean!"

"Looks like you and that Xi Mubai really have a secret affair," Mrs. Ye also scolded her severely, "Xia Meng, you're such a shameless woman! My Ye family shouldn't have opened our doors to welcome you in in the first place!"

Xinghe dropped a stack of papers before her. "So get Ye Shen to sign these. You'll be rid of me once and for all."

Xinghe was done demeaning herself being a Ye. Let her go and everyone would be happy.

Staring at the sudden stack of divorce papers, Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin were stunned.

Ye Qin suddenly spat on the papers. "My brother will dump you when he's done with you, you have no right to bring up divorce before then!"

"Ye Corps is heading towards bankruptcy, right?" Xinghe commented out of nowhere.

The mother and daughter pair's faces fell. How did she find out?

"Get Ye Shen to sign these divorce papers, and I might be charitable enough to get him financial aid. This is the last chance I'm offering so remember to take the papers with you." With that Xinghe walked back into the house.

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Chapter 300: 2,000,000 For A Divorce
Translator: Lonelytree  Editor: Millman97

"Xia Meng, stop right there—" Mrs. Ye tried to pull her back but was blocked by the guards.

"No one is allowed entry without Miss Xia's permission!" The guard announced as he glared at them.

"I'm her mother-in-law, how dare you block my way‽" Mrs. Ye retorted angrily.

The guard sneered. "Do you pay our salary? No? Then, get out!"

"You…" Mrs. Ye was beside her with anger and Ye Qin was swearing at the top of her lungs.

However, no matter what they did, the guards didn't let them in.

"Mom, Xia Meng, that b*tch is too much. We'll refuse to let her get a divorce and we'll see what she dares to do to us!" Ye Qin groused angrily but internally she was overwhelmed with envy.

Envy that Xia Meng not only knew Xi Mubai but was given such a good treatment. This villa, the guards, if they didn't come from Mubai, who else could they be from?

Mrs. Ye was of the same opinion as her daughter. She wouldn't cave in so easily and hand the divorce over to Xia Meng because the girl belonged to her son and, by extension, his family. Even if Xia Meng died, she would have to be a Ye family ghost!

However, it was true that Ye Corps was facing bankruptcy…

She stole a look at the divorce papers on the floor and ordered Ye Qin through gritted teeth, "Pick that up; let's go!"

"Huh?" Ye Qin complained, "But why?"

The paper had her spit on it… It was disgusting.

"Do you want to live on the street?"

"…" Ye Qin brooded over it but eventually picked up the disgusting document. After all, bankruptcy was a lot scarier than her own spit.

…

Mrs. Ye and Ye Qin arrived with the intention to school Xia Meng but ended up leaving after being taught a lesson themselves.

They were still nursing the anger within them when they got home where Ye Shen was waiting.

He quickly ran forward to ask what happened when he saw them walking through the front door. "Mom, how did it go? Did you manage to talk some sense into Xia Meng?"

Ye Shen was hoping his mother would've been able to shred the b*tch on his behalf for trampling all over him.

"Don't remind me, the b*tch refuses to listen to my kind advice." Mrs. Ye sat herself down on the sofa, still fuming, "Son, she really thinks she is something else now with Xi Mubai behind her back! She showed me zero respect!"

"Then what shall we do?" Ye Shen frowned in agitation. "The company is coming down. If she refuses to help then it's over for us!"

"Brother, Xia Meng said, if you're willing to divorce her, then she might help us." Ye Qin tossed him the divorce papers.

Ye Shen was startled and quickly flipped through it. He realized there was a clause in the papers stating that, after the divorce, she would pay him 2,000,000 RMB as compensation.

Ye Shen didn't read through the papers before tearing it up last time so he missed this particular clause.

"Brother, what exactly is the relationship between Xia Meng and Xi Mubai? To think he is willing to take out 2,000,000 RMB to buy her divorce. This is too peculiar," Ye Qin said with burning jealousy.

Ye Shen shook his head. "I have no idea. I had my men research their relationship but they came up with nothing."

"Could it be that the two of them really fell in love?" Ye Qin shook her head vehemently after saying it, "Impossible! No man will fall for a cripple like her, much less one of Xi Mubai's caliber!"

 Ye Shen thought the same way. In their eyes, Xia Meng was a faulty product, no man other than Ye Shen would be kind enough to accept such a reject.

Therefore, there must be another layer to their relationship…

Suddenly, a possibility came into Ye Shen's mind.

Ye Shen sold the thing she has to Xi Mubai‽ But that thing is useless to outsiders. Its usage is a well-kept secret. Xi Mubai is not one of us or I would have known.

However, this seemed to be the only valid reason to explain why Xi Mubai was so willing to lend his aid to Xia Meng.