Jiang Cheng's gaze grew increasingly somber as Pei Zhi spoke, like icy winter water.

Pei Zhi looked directly at him without flinching.

To be honest, Pei Zhi felt guilty towards Jiang Cheng, and even felt a little sympathy for him, he admitted.

But he knew Jiang Cheng's feelings for Pei Xi, so he couldn't remain silent.

Even if he felt guilty towards Jiang Cheng, even if he was apologizing to him just a second ago, one thing is one thing.

When it comes to Pei Xi, there's no room for saving face.

He is Pei Xi's older brother, and he must shoulder the responsibilities of an older brother.

Jiang Cheng was a smart man; he tried to be as tactful as possible, but he knew the other person would understand.

Pei Zhi shrugged. "You said it yourself, I can't control you, so I won't. Similarly, I can't interfere with Pei Xi's will. But I do have the freedom to give you a few words of advice, otherwise, I'll feel uncomfortable holding it in."

Jiang Cheng's knuckles turned white from the force he exerted.

He understood every word he said.

Pei Zhi told him not to use Pei Xi's kindness to manipulate her.

Don't take advantage of her sympathy.

Jiang Cheng wanted to say he didn't, but did he really not have any at all?

Or rather, was Pei Xi's kindness towards him truly devoid of any compassion? Did he not selfishly and greedily pretend not to know?

He found that he simply couldn't refute Pei Zhi with a straight face.

Instead, I felt a sense of unease, as if my true feelings had been exposed.

He is indeed despicable.

Pei Zhi was merely expressing his inner concerns; at most, it was a warning and reminder to him.

But Pei Zhi didn't know that every word he said precisely struck the most uneasy and secret place in his heart.

After a long pause, Jiang Cheng said in a low voice, "I know."

Pei Zhi is right.

He couldn't accept Pei Xi's sympathy with a clear conscience.

Pei Xi's kindness to him must be because he is good enough, not because he is pitiful enough.

That is a despicable act of cheating.

He looked up at Pei Zhi again, and repeated in a calm voice, "Don't worry, I... know."