Chapter 35: Innocent Landlord and Black Tenant 03 [Our Observer's Joy...

On a Rosemary night, psychedelic blue-purple laser beams cut through the diffuse smoke, and deafening electronic music strikes people's nerves.

Ye Ling followed Shao Ye and once again joined this life of decadence that made him dizzy.

Shao Ye still looked out of place. He walked straight to the bar, skillfully tied on a black apron, picked up a square towel and began to wipe the wine glasses.

He lowered his eyes slightly, his profile stern, as if the clamor around him had nothing to do with him. He was just a single, unwavering green bamboo standing tall in this murky mire.

Ye Ling was led by the waiter to a relatively private semi-open booth.

"Mr. Ye, good evening. What would you like to drink today?" He sat down, and immediately a coolly dressed model came over with the drink menu, but it was obvious that her intention was not to drink. "Let's see if any of our newcomers catch your eye."

Ye Ling's scalp tingled. He just wanted a glass of water, but 778 immediately sounded the alarm: [Host! Pay attention to your character!]

778 slammed him down, frustrated: "You're now a wealthy, discerning art connoisseur! You're not here for plain water! Order the most expensive wine, project the image of a wealthy, generous, and aesthetically pleasing gentleman, and leave a lasting impression on the protagonist! Remember, the real purpose isn't the wine, it's the guy behind the bar wiping the glasses!"

Ye Ling tried to straighten her back and make her voice sound less dazed. "Um... well... first, let's have a bottle of your most expensive champagne."

He imitated the original owner's critical gaze and glanced around the dance floor and the booths at the throbbing figures. Then his gaze casually fell back on Shao Ye, and his voice was deliberately deep: "True inspiration often requires time to settle and a unique perspective to discover. There's no rush."

The waiter smiled knowingly, took down the order of drinks, and walked away with a twist of his waist.

Ye Ling breathed a sigh of relief, feeling his back soaked with sweat. He took a swig of the ice water the waiter had placed on the table, trying to calm his pounding heart. He glanced towards the bar again.

Just then, a group of young people, dressed in bright clothes but with a sloppy temperament, rushed in noisily and occupied a large booth not far from the bar.

Leading the group was a young man with greasy slicked-back hair and a shiny watch.

[Host! That's the number one vicious villain in this novel! Your colleague!] 778 immediately introduced him passionately, [He's Shao Ye's classmate, a well-known rich second-generation guy in this city, Zhao Mingxuan! He's a scumbag with nothing but money, and he spent a fortune to get into University A. What he hates most in his life is people like the protagonist who are tenacious and have real skills!]

Zhao Mingxuan immediately noticed Shao Ye who was quietly wiping cups behind the bar.

He smiled contemptuously and walked over with a few followers.

"Hey! Isn't that our department's brilliant student, Shao Ye?" Zhao Mingxuan's voice was deliberately raised, drawing the attention of some nearby people. He leaned against the bar, his words and actions filled with mockery. "So, you're still working and studying here? I heard the landlord kicked you out of your doghouse? And your dorm was destroyed, too? Tsk, tsk, tsk, tsk, tsk, tsk! Where are you sleeping now? The gym? Or... under the overpass?"

Shao Ye wiped the cup without any pause, without even raising his eyelids, treating Zhao Mingxuan as a ball of noisy air.

This complete disregard made Zhao Mingxuan furious. What he hated most was Shao Ye's aloof and arrogant attitude, the way he looked down on everyone even though he was obviously poor!

"Stop pretending to be so noble!" Zhao Mingxuan slammed the bar. "I think you're just wiping glasses here, not pretending to be. You're really just waiting to be called! So? How much is it per night? Since we're classmates, I can help you out. I guarantee you'll make more than you do wiping glasses!"

This blatant insult instantly chilled the atmosphere around them. Even several nearby guests frowned.

At this moment, a clear and pleasant voice interrupted: "Zhao Mingxuan! Watch your mouth!"

A young man, dressed in a simple white shirt and as pure as fresh snow, stepped forward from the crowd. He had delicate features, fair skin, and clear, bright eyes, radiating a strong sense of justice.

This is the protagonist, the shou, in the novel—Chen Yuqiu! 778 introduced them enthusiastically. "The protagonist, the gong, and the shou, are alumni of University A, but they're in different colleges and don't usually interact much, only meeting a few times at major events. The shou has always admired the protagonist, and this is their first close, private encounter!"

"Student Shao Ye is working part-time to pay for his studies through his own hard work. He's a hundred times better than a parasite like you who only relies on your family's squandering!" Shen Yuqiu rushed over with a tough attitude, glaring at Zhao Mingxuan angrily, "Zhao Mingxuan! Apologize to him!"

[Listen! How righteous! How brave!] 778 excitedly narrated, [This public display of support is a crucial stepping stone for the protagonist's future affection for the protagonist's back!]

As soon as he saw Shen Yuqiu, the hostility on Zhao Mingxuan's face instantly disappeared. He stuttered, and his tone was even more flattering: "Shen Yuqiu? Why are you here? I didn't mean that... I was just joking with him..."

Shen Yuqiu was so disgusted that he didn't want to look at him anymore. He turned to Shao Ye, his eyes instantly softened and concerned, and his voice became softer: "Shao Ye, are you okay? Don't pay attention to this kind of scum. I heard about your dormitory. If you need a place to stay, I can help. My family has several vacant apartments in the city..."

Ye Ling hid in the shadow of the booth, like a peeping little hamster, nervously clenching the ice water disguised as white wine in her hand.

[He looks... really good.] Ye Ling was touched by Shen Yuqiu's sincere words and actions, and couldn't help but murmur in admiration, [As expected of the protagonist.]

[Of course, host! He's the lucky child of this world!] 778's electronic voice rose and fell. [Look at him! Born into a wealthy family, yet he's not tainted with a single trace of the dandy's extravagance, debauchery, and frivolity! He's kind and pure, the only light in this filthy world—]

After a pause, 007's voice suddenly turned serious. "But host, your role is also very important! It's because of you, a perverted cannon fodder, tirelessly committing evil that the protagonist has developed a strong aversion and fear towards same-sex relationships..."

Therefore, only someone like the protagonist, pure and flawless, full of sunshine and healing power, can be like a gentle key, unlocking the door to Shao Ye's heart that you have locked with your own hands! To achieve such a great love is the meaning of our existence! !

The electronic sound of 778 is passionate and surging, as if proclaiming a sacred mission.

Meanwhile, at the bar, Shen Yuqiu was still sincerely asking Shao Ye if he needed help.

No one thought Shao Ye would refuse this kindness that came out of nowhere.

Shao Ye finally stopped wiping the cup.

He raised his head, his eyes calmly swept across Shen Yuqiu who looked expectant, then swept over Zhao Mingxuan who had a sullen face beside him, and finally, his gaze, like a deep pool, seemed to vaguely move towards the booth where Ye Ling was hiding, and paused for a moment like a dragonfly skimming the water.

Then, he spoke to Shen Yuqiu, his voice cold and distant: “Thank you for your kindness, but no need.”

Then his gaze penetrated the crowd and accurately caught sight of a rapidly retreating golden head. The corners of his lips curled up, "I have wine to deliver to an important guest."

After saying that, he picked up a bottle of expensive champagne and two glasses that had been prepared on the tray next to him, walked around the bar quickly, and headed towards the booth where Ye Ling was.

Shen Yuqiu froze, his frozen smile gradually turning into an awkward one. Zhao Mingxuan, on the other hand, was filled with disbelief, then even deeper anger – damn, Shao Ye actually dared to reject Shen Yuqiu?!

Ye Ling, who was sitting in the booth, felt his heart sink when he heard the words "important guest." When he saw Shao Ye walking towards him with a tray, he was so frightened that he almost lost his soul.

[Ahhh! Host! The target is coming! Could it be you, the important guest he mentioned?!] 778 panicked, [Quick! Sit down! You're a generous gentleman artist now, not a peeping thief who got caught!]

However, Ye Ling's mind was blank, and the only thought in his mind was: run!

He jumped up directly from the sofa in the booth, no longer caring about his elegant image, and turned around to slip into the deeper shadows next to him.

Unfortunately, although he moved quickly, Shao Ye moved even faster, and his target was extremely clear!

Just when Ye Ling was panicking and had just half of his body leaned out of the booth, a tall and straight figure had already blocked his way.

Ye Ling braked suddenly and almost crashed into Shao Ye's arms. He looked up suddenly and met Shao Ye's deep black eyes again, and gasped in fear.

The corners of Shao Ye's mouth seemed to curl up, so quickly that it seemed like an illusion.

"Mr. Ye?" Shao Ye's voice was not loud, but it reached Ye Ling's ears clearly amidst the noisy music, with just the right amount of surprise. "Why are you hiding here? Do you need anything to drink? Here's a glass of champagne."

Ye Ling felt her face burning instantly. She was so embarrassed that she didn't know where to put her hands and feet.

778 screamed frantically in his head: [Hold on! Host! Hold on! Character! Character! Smile! Say your lines!]

Ye Ling forced a fake smile, her voice dry: "Mr. Shao Ye? Of course I'm...looking for artistic inspiration!"

Shao Ye didn't say anything, just looked at him quietly.

Ye Ling scratched his red ears and pointed to the corner where he had been hiding. "Don't you think... the sofa here, the shadows, the dim feeling... has a particularly artistic atmosphere?"

Shao Ye replied calmly but pointedly, "Huh? I thought your artistic inspiration came from those male models."

Ye Ling fell silent: "..."

The atmosphere was so awkward that it felt like water could be squeezed out of it.

778 was extremely anxious: [Host! Whatever! Seize this opportunity and extend an olive branch! Basement!]

Ye Ling's head was buzzing with urgency from 778. Looking at Shao Ye's face close to him, which had no expression but was full of pressure, he made up his mind, closed his eyes, and started to follow the plot.

"Oh, right! Um, classmate Shao Ye..." Ye Ling softened his voice, trying to create the image of a caring older brother. "Have you encountered any troubles recently? For example... Accommodation?"

Shao Ye suddenly raised his eyes.

Ye Ling's heart trembled when he looked at her, and she almost bit her tongue.

Shao Ye's eyes flashed with surprise, and then he regained his composure. He nodded slightly and respectfully called out, "Mr. Ye."

"Just call me Ye Ling!" Ye Ling emphasized quickly, trying to deepen the sincere smile on her face.

He had dressed up carefully today, with his light golden hair combed softly behind his ears, revealing his smooth forehead. His hazelnut eyes tried to open wide under the light, sparkling with a light that said "I'm super sincere".

Following the carefully crafted script by 778, his tone was filled with regret: "Alas, I just overheard what happened in your school dormitory... It's such a coincidence, how could such a thing happen?"

He frowned just right and said, "An excellent and hard-working student like you really shouldn't be bothered by these trivial matters in life and waste your studies and precious talents! This is simply... a waste of talent!" He also deliberately used the idiom provided by 778.

Ye Ling paused, seemingly considering his words, but in reality, he was frantically searching his mind for the next line. Then, in a gentle tone, he threw out the ultimate bait:

"Come to think of it, what a coincidence!" He smiled shyly. "My old house in the old city, the Ye Family Mansion not too far from here, happens to have a separate basement. It used to be filled with old picture frames and other miscellaneous items, like a storage room. A while ago, I thought it was too messy, so I had it cleaned up and renovated. They connected water and electricity, installed a separate bathroom, and furnished everything basic, such as a bed and a table..."

As he spoke, he stole a glance at Shao Ye's reaction.

Shao Ye just listened quietly, his face calm and no one could tell what he was thinking.

Ye Ling's heart was pounding, but she gritted her teeth and continued reciting, "This place...it's definitely not big, it can't compare to up there. But it's quiet! Absolutely quiet! And it's safe and independent. Once you close the door, it's your own little world, and no one can disturb you while you study."

The shy smile on his face remained unchanged, and his voice sounded even more sincere.

"As for the rent..." He waved his hand, acting as if he was being generous enough to let the financial discussion get to the point. "Hey! Just consider it a small investment and support from me, a senior student, to my junior! A symbolic contribution towards the utilities, three hundred yuan a month will do! Art needs fertile soil, and talent needs a stable environment to thrive, don't you agree?"

He blinked his big, sincere eyes, and at the end did not forget to elevate the theme, portraying himself as an art scout who cherishes talent.

This speech, from identifying the dilemma, expressing sympathy, providing solutions to charitable pricing, is closely linked and the tone is sincere.

But only Ye Ling knew that his palms were covered in cold sweat. He forced himself to remain calm, following the principle of knowing when to advance and retreat as taught by 778. He didn't immediately press for an answer, but instead pulled out a business card from the inside pocket of his exquisite suit and handed it over.

"It's okay. It's such a big deal. You can take your time to think about it. There's no need to rush to reply." He smiled gently, full of patience. "My phone number and address are on the business card. When you've made up your mind, feel free to contact me."

In the old city where every inch of land is worth a fortune? The Ye family mansion? A separate basement? A symbolic 300 yuan monthly rent?

This condition is too good to be true.

It was too good, too good to be true. Even a top-tier glutton with too much money to spend wouldn't necessarily offer such charitable terms.

Unless... there are other intentions.

Moreover, this unexpected "pie in the sky" happened to come right after the crisis he encountered. Everything was too coincidental, one link after another, forming an extremely meticulous trap.

Sure enough, the person who was secretly "targeting" him was Ye Ling.

Shao Ye said nothing, just calmly took the business card, went into the bathroom, took out his cell phone, and entered "Ye Ling" on the search page.

A huge amount of information poured out:

"Genius painter Ye Ling wins international art award, becoming the youngest winner in history!"

Ye Ling stood under the spotlight holding the trophy, her light golden hair shining, her hazel eyes smiling, she was elegant and noble, with an outstanding temperament.

In another photo, Ye Ling is wearing a haute couture dress and talking to people among elegant people. He has a gentle smile and decent manners. The caption praises him as a model gentleman in the art world.

"Ye Ling's works are imbued with spirituality and compassion, and she embodies an artist's sense of social responsibility to the utmost..."

"Teacher Ye is simply the ideal of life! The perfect combination of elegance and talent!"

Shao Ye's fingertips slid across one dazzling photo of Ye Ling after another.

The perfect gentleman on the screen who was surrounded by countless praises formed a schievous contradiction with the young man in memory who spoke greasy words and chatted with the "little wild cat" but had a blushing face and was extremely ashamed.

There are too many doubts in this matter. Perhaps keeping a distance is the wisest decision for the sake of caution.

But Shao Ye unconsciously stroked the corner of his lips, and his fingertips felt the abnormal upward curve.

Oh……

interesting.

Do you regard me as prey?

He took out the business card left by the clumsy hunter and directly applied to add him as a WeChat friend using the mobile phone number on it.

The other party seemed to have been waiting, and immediately approved the friend request, and then couldn't wait to send him a rental contract that had been prepared long ago.

The terms were simple and clear. The rent column clearly stated the symbolic "RMB 100 per month" with Ye Ling's elegant electronic signature below.

Shao Ye's deep eyes narrowed slightly.

With a swipe of his finger, he added his electronic signature without hesitation.

He didn't have much luggage, just a suitcase, a backpack, and a cardboard box for books; that was all he had.

Ye Ling was extremely considerate and even considerate enough not to show up. He only sent a taciturn assistant to help with the moving chores, minimizing his possible discomfort.

The basement was indeed renovated to be clean and tidy, just as Ye Ling described.

The room features off-white walls, simple wood-colored furniture, a separate bathroom and kitchenette, and a long row of skylights. The soft lighting and quiet environment make it a paradise compared to the noisy stadium stands or cramped dormitories.

As night falls, the sounds of the city are blocked out by the heavy buildings, and the basement is silent.

Shao Ye simply packed up his things, sat at his desk, turned on his computer, and continued his unfinished programming homework.

Meanwhile, in the studio on the top floor.

The curtains were closed tightly, blocking out the light from outside.

In the dark, eerie studio, an entire wall of bookcases rotated, revealing a massive surveillance screen emitting a faint blue light. The screen was divided into a dozen small grids, clearly displaying different angles of the basement: the desk, the bed, the doorway...

[All surveillance cameras are in place! Complete angles, perfect clarity!] 788's excited voice, [Host, our Observer Paradise is officially launched~!]