Chapter 61, the negative distance arc is about to begin!!!
In the awkward silence that made one want to escape from Earth, it was Meng Huaiwen who broke the suffocating silence first.
He cleared his throat forcefully, his smile widening, and began in a deliberately elevated, exaggeratedly sincere tone:
"Ahem! Well...we really, really," he emphasized the word, his gaze sweeping meaningfully over their still-embracing posture, "didn't see anything!"
As soon as he finished speaking, several suppressed laughs erupted from the crowd, and Alex loudly added in accented Chinese, "Yes, yes, yes! We didn't hear anything either!"
Alex's teasing remark was like flipping a switch, and the suppressed laughter in the room finally burst forth, instantly filling the living room with a joyful atmosphere.
Li Xinian felt Lin Suxing's body stiffen instantly in his arms. The young man's delicate and handsome face turned completely red in an instant. He subconsciously buried his burning cheeks deep in Li Xinian's neck and wrapped his arms tightly around Li Xinian's waist, as if he wanted to hide himself away.
Like an ostrich burying its face in its hole, it carries a sense of self-deception.
Li Xinian forced himself to remain calm and tightened his arm around Lin Suxing, his gaze sweeping over the group of "uninvited guests" in front of him with a mixture of helplessness and indulgence.
He should have suspected something was wrong with the living room that was pitch black after sunset.
Even if this group of people went out to sea together, they couldn't possibly turn off all the lights; they weren't that green, low-carbon, and environmentally friendly.
Under the dazzling lights and in the meticulously arranged celebration venue, the two protagonists, their ears flushed and their posture intimate, and a group of friends watching with knowing expressions, couldn't help but laugh out loud while staring at each other.
Li Xinian took a deep breath and chuckled helplessly, "You guys... really know how to pick your timing."
Awkward as it may be, his friends' intentions were simply to celebrate, so Li Xinian naturally didn't say anything more.
At most, I'll just lie in bed at night and quietly review it a few times.
"The main character has arrived, shall we start having a few drinks?" "The dishes are all prepared, the chef is ready, when would you like the main course?" "Ask Shunduo, he's the overall coordinator this time."...
Those present were all close friends who knew each other well, so the jokes stopped when they were over, and everyone quickly changed the subject, as if the scene that made people dig their toes out of Disney's dream castle had never happened.
One by one, the crowd stepped forward, raising their champagne glasses to sincerely congratulate Li Xinian on officially taking over the Li family's vast business empire.
Wang Shunduo walked at the back with a wine glass in his hand. He pushed up his gold-rimmed glasses and explained in a low voice with a hint of helpless laughter to Li Xinian and Lin Suxing, whose ears were still a little red: "Our original plan was to pretend that we had all gone to the beach. When you came in, you would think that no one was there. When you turned on the lights, you would see these decorations and give you a surprise."
He paused, his eyes filled with even more mockery, "Who would have thought you'd come in and start talking without even turning on the lights? We're really sorry to 'disturb' you."
Li Xinian's face had returned to its usual composure, as if he wasn't the one who had been overcome with emotion in the darkness just moments before. He shook Lin Suxing's hand, raised his glass to Wang Shunduo and the others, and said calmly, "I appreciate your sentiments, it's alright."
His gaze swept over the meticulously decorated living room and his smiling friends, and he sincerely added, "Thank you everyone."
This harmless little incident was quickly dispelled by the aroma of champagne and the lively conversation.
"You can't raise your voice at Brother Xinian anymore. Look at this thumb ring, wow... it's so impressive." Su Wentang, who was focused on literature and art, had long since given up on taking over the reins of the family business, but at this moment, looking at the jade thumb ring on Li Xinian's left thumb, she still felt a surge of envy.
Who wouldn't be tempted by a symbol of power?
Yin Xiangyun, who was standing to the side, joked, "Brother Xinian, congratulations! Shunduo will be next, right?"
Wang Shunduo laughed and chatted with him, not taking it to heart: "You should think about yourself first. Didn't that girl from the Bai family say she wanted to marry you? She even said she would do everything she could to help you become the head of the family."
"That's not true! Where did you all hear that from?" Yin Xiangyun was younger than Li Xinian and Wang Shunduo, and her face was flushed, as if she was a little embarrassed.
She had previously presumptuously invited Lin Suxing to the spring banquet's ball, and when Lin Suxing refused, she assumed the other woman was unaware of the banquet's rules. Now it seems...
He wasn't unaware of it; rather, he had already been reserved as Li Xinian's dance partner.
Li Xinian is a strong-willed, domineering, and shrewd person, and must be a possessive type.
The tall, capable girl with a ponytail, exuding an Alpha aura, couldn't help but break out in a sweat: She hoped Li Xinian would never know she had once invited Lin Suxing to dance, otherwise she'd be in deep trouble.
Su Wentang decided to go home to the ancestral hall tomorrow to copy the scriptures one hundred times to show his sincerity in praying.
The huge sunken living room became the perfect party venue, with soothing music flowing and friends gathering in twos and threes to chat and laugh.
Alex and several other foreign friends stood next to Li Xinian and talked about the Li family's overseas strategy. Lin Suxing was also surrounded by several familiar friends, including Meng Huaiwen and Su Wentang, who were all working in the entertainment industry, discussing his newly announced drama "I Am Immortal" and his upcoming new drama.
The noise continued for a while after the main meal ended. Someone looked out the window and suggested, "The moonlight is so beautiful, why don't we go for a walk on the beach?"
The suggestion was immediately accepted. Everyone tacitly agreed not to disturb the main characters of the evening, and under the guise of taking a walk, they left the space to Li Xinian and Lin Suxing.
The villa's glass doors facing the sea are fully open, letting in the salty sea breeze.
Li Xinian naturally took Lin Suxing's hand, and the two walked side by side across the soft wooden terrace, down a few steps, and onto the cool and fine white sand.
The bay at night is completely different from one at dusk. The hustle and bustle fades away, leaving only the regular and deep sound of the tides, caressing the coastline again and again.
A bright, clear moon hung high in the sky, its radiance like a ribbon, casting a shimmering, silvery light across the deep sea, stretching from the horizon to their feet.
The silhouette of the private dock in the distance appeared serene in the moonlight, and the yachts and speedboats by the dock were silhouetted in deep blue, rising and falling gently with the waves.
They walked slowly along the still-wet beach, neither of them speaking, their fingers intertwined, savoring this moment of solitude and tranquility. In the distance, the faint sound of Meng Huaiwen and his friends' hearty laughter could be heard, but it wasn't jarring; instead, it only accentuated the serenity of their corner.
Li Xinian stopped and turned to face Lin Suxing.
The moonlight outlined the lover's delicate profile, and those eyes, which could express complex human nature in front of the camera, were now reflected in the moonlight and the waves of the sea, so clear that only his reflection remained.
“Just now…” Li Xinian said in a low voice, his tone carrying a rare mix of embarrassment and amusement.
Lin Suxing immediately understood what he meant, and her cheeks flushed again, but she looked up at him with a sly glint in her eyes: "That's it, President Li's image of being wise and mighty has completely collapsed."
Li Xinian chuckled softly, reaching out to tuck the strands of hair that had been ruffled by the sea breeze behind his ear, his fingertips lingering affectionately on his slightly warm earlobe.
“It was a bit awkward in front of them.” His voice sounded particularly deep and gentle on the tranquil beach. “However…” He paused, looking at him intently, “I don’t think it was a collapse.”
Under the moonlight, their shadows intertwined intimately on the beach.
"...Why does my brother keep looking this way?"
Lin Suxing caught several glimpses of her brother, Lin Siyi, standing alone at the edge of the tide line a little distance away, looking thoughtfully in their direction.
That gaze contained no reproach, but carried an indescribable heaviness.
Lin Suxing's heart clenched slightly, and she couldn't help but speak to the system in her mind: [System, does my brother think that Xi Nian and I are too intimate in public? Does he not like it?]
The moment the lights were turned on, everyone looked at each other in surprise. While everyone was laughing, Lin Suxing noticed that Lin Siyi, whom he had invited, was smiling very reluctantly.
To be honest, some people really can't accept their younger siblings or lovers being so intimate in front of them.
But Lin Suxing felt that Lin Siyi wasn't that kind of person, so he became even more confused.
The system scratched its head. It was no longer a gossip-eating system, so it naturally didn't have any mind-reading abilities and could only try to guess.
From what I understand, Lin Siyi isn't such a rigid person. He's more likely concerned about the cooperation negotiations he's currently handling with Li Xinian. Lin Siyi hasn't yet given a formal response to Li Xinian's proposed collaboration.
Lin Suxing frowned: "Our cheapskate father has ruined the company so badly it's almost bankrupt. Now my brother is overwhelmed with work, having to personally smooth things over with many people because he offended so many. Actually, I think cooperating with the Li Group is a pretty good choice. Surely they won't try to sabotage the Lin family again every year?"
Li Xinian listened to him talking to the system and nodded slightly with satisfaction in his eyes.
...His star really trusted him, and was so at ease handing over the Lin family's business to him.
The system's recap reminded Lin Suxing: [As previously mentioned, the Lin family's bankruptcy crisis six months later points to malicious short-selling and media manipulation by an entity under the Li Group. Lin Siyi may have already discovered the subtle details of the Li Group's attempt to manipulate the market and accelerate the Lin family's bankruptcy, therefore he is investigating what role Li Xinian played in this matter.]
Malicious short selling? Manipulation of public opinion?
How could he not know about this?
"Impossible!" Lin Suxing immediately retorted in her mind, with unwavering trust. "Nian Nian would never do such a thing! First of all, he's not that kind of person. He's fundamentally a very kind person; how could he do something that would drive someone's family to ruin? Secondly, he knows what the Lin family means to me; for my sake, he would never do such a thing."
Seeing Lin Suxing's agitated tone, the system stammered, "[However, according to the original timeline, host, you've already been cyberbullied and forced out of the entertainment industry, and even kicked out of the Lin family by your parents. You know nothing about the Lin family's affairs. In reality, you're not only still in the Lin family, but you're also with Li Xinian, so the subsequent plot may not necessarily unfold as it does.]"
Li Xinian understood: Lin Siyi's sudden change in attitude towards him was because of the "plot preview" released by the Lin Suxing system.
Lin Suxing didn't know that his conversation with the system could be heard by others, but he did know it.
Lin Siyi overheard the entire discussion between the system and Lin Suxing about the Lin family's bankruptcy, which is why she became wary and cautious of him.
The sea breeze, carrying a slightly cool and salty taste, swept across the terrace, making the laughter of friends in the distance somewhat muffled.
Li Xinian, holding an untouched glass of whiskey, walked toward Lin Siyi, who was leaning alone against the railing, gazing at the dark sea.
“Siyi.” Li Xinian’s voice was steady as he stood beside him.
Lin Siyi turned her head to look at him, her eyes filled with a complex and unfathomable emotion.
“I know what you’re worried about,” Li Xinian said bluntly, his gaze sincere. “It’s about the financial pressure the Lin family might face, and… whether the Li family will play a dishonest role in the acquisition.”
Lin Siyi did not deny it, but listened quietly.
“Even without the connection to Su Xing,” Li Xinian continued, his tone carrying his characteristic calmness and certainty, “from a purely business perspective, the core brands under the Lin Group, especially its high-end handmade clothing line, possess unparalleled brand value. What it lacks is only stronger capital backing and global distribution channels. What I value is this potential, and my intention is to seek cooperation, a legitimate investment or acquisition, so that it can truly compete with those blue-blooded brands, rather than destroying it through underhanded means.”
He paused, his voice lowering slightly, yet becoming even clearer and more forceful: "And now, because of Su Xing, his family and the family's hard work, which he cherishes like treasures, have taken on a completely different meaning for me. I cannot, and will never, do anything that would truly harm the Lin family or cause him distress. My feelings for Su Xing," he looked at Lin Siyi, his eyes unwavering, "are serious."
Amid the sound of the ocean waves, Lin Siyi remained silent for a moment, and the tense lines of her profile finally softened a little.
He gave a faint, slightly self-deprecating smile: "President Li, I'm not questioning your business integrity. On the contrary, I believe you're not the kind of person who would trample on rules and be solely driven by profit. I've also seen your dedication to Suxing."
He changed the subject, his tone becoming heavy with unspoken emotion, and his voice lowered: "I have mixed feelings today, mostly because of a bit of... personal concern as an older brother. Su Xing is still young, relatively simple-minded, and well-protected by his family. If there are some things... if he's not really ready or willing, I hope you... won't force him."
This statement is quite straightforward, pointing to the most intimate relationship between lovers.
Lin Siyi was worried that her younger brother, in front of a man like Li Xinian, might be unaware of the situation or afraid to refuse, and end up having sex with him half-heartedly.
In his view, Lin Suxing was still a child. Although she had started working in society at a young age, she was still very naive and ignorant. In front of Li Xinian, a ruthless character who was good at business and would devour people without spitting out the bones, she could only be tricked and taken advantage of.
What's frustrating is that Lin Siyi can't directly discuss this with Lin Suxing, otherwise, if their relationship hasn't progressed to that point yet, her words might remind Lin Suxing of what to do!
At this moment, Lin Siyi felt that the saying "the eldest brother is like a father" was absolutely true, and he was worried sick about his younger brother.
After hearing this, Li Xinian was slightly taken aback, then chuckled softly as if he had heard something extremely unexpected and helpless.
He shook his head, his tone carrying a mixture of indulgence and helplessness:
"...You can rest assured about that. The situation you're worried about doesn't exist."
Some beautiful images flashed through his mind, and a deep meaning flickered in his eyes. He stopped talking at the right time and did not continue, but the meaning in his unfinished words was clear enough.
Lin Siyi stared at his resolute expression, which even carried a hint of subtle helplessness. She paused for a moment, then seemed to understand something. The seriousness on her face finally melted away, replaced by a relieved feeling that was both funny and exasperating.
He raised his glass and lightly clinked it against Li Xinian's: "...I understand."
As night deepened, friends gradually dispersed. The last friend's laughter faded into the distance with the sound of car engines, eventually disappearing into the night sea breeze.
The huge villa fell silent instantly, with only the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves gently seeping into the room through the open French windows.
Li Xinian closed the door and locked it. Turning around, he saw Lin Suxing leaning lazily against the armrest of the huge sofa in the center of the living room, her fingertips unconsciously twirling the tassels on the sofa.
The warm yellow floor lamp cast a soft halo around him. He had shed the polite smile he maintained in front of his friends, and now there was a hint of weariness in his eyes, adding a touch of tender dependence.
"Tired?" Li Xinian approached, naturally reaching out and gently brushing his fingertips across the faint shadows under his eyes.
Lin Suxing pressed her cheek against his warm palm, like a cat seeking comfort, and mumbled an "Mmm".
He looked up at Li Xinian, his beautiful doe-like eyes reflecting Li Xinian's silhouette in the lamplight, and winked mischievously; "I'm exhausted, I don't have the strength to walk anymore..."
Li Xinian understood immediately, bent down and picked him up horizontally.
Lin Suxing gasped softly, immediately wrapping her arms around his neck, burying her face in his shoulder, and chuckling quietly as he held her, step by step ascending the spiral staircase towards the master bedroom.
In the master bedroom, only a dimly lit wall lamp by the bedside was on, casting an ambiguous warmth into the air.
Li Xinian carefully placed Lin Suxing in the center of the soft bed, leaned down and placed a light kiss on his forehead: "Shall we take a shower first?"
Lin Suxing, however, held onto his neck tightly, pulling him closer with a slight effort. She tilted her head back and placed a soft yet lingering kiss on his lips, a kiss that carried the salty taste of the sea breeze and the lingering scent of alcohol.
As they parted, the handsome young man, lying on his back, had reddened eyes and a watery look in them. His voice was soft and sweet as he pleaded, "Can we stay together?"
The young man's soft voice rose at the end, as gentle as a cat's tail, lightly brushing against Li Xinian's heart.
It tickles.
Li Xinian's eyes darkened, his Adam's apple bobbed, but he did not refuse, only responding in a low voice, "Okay."
The bathroom was filled with steam, and blurry, overlapping figures were reflected in the frosted glass, occasionally punctuated by low breaths and moans.
After a long while, Li Xinian finally carried Lin Suxing out, who was covered in pink and wrapped in a soft bathrobe.
The young man curled up lazily in his arms, his fair, jade-like fingertips tinged with pink, his voice a little hoarse: "...Let me get down and walk by myself. You've been carrying me in front of the mirror for so long, you must be tired."
Every time he couldn't help but sob, he would be encouraged by Li Xinian's deep voice to continue making cat-like coquettish sounds. In the end, of course, he would lose his voice before he even got started.
A handsome, tall boy was gently placed beside the bed. The towel wrapped around his body fell away, and under the lamplight, plum blossoms were already scattered on the rice paper, creating an ambiguous impression.
His flushed cheeks and glistening tears in the corners of his eyes clearly indicated that he had just gone through something.
Not to mention her full lips, which were originally light pink but have now been sucked into a deeper, more vibrant red.
It's as vibrant as a ripe fruit, ready to release sweet juice at any moment.
"It's alright." Li Xinian sat on the edge of the bed and carefully wiped his wet hair with a towel.
Lin Suxing nestled obediently in his arms, enjoying this moment of tenderness, the same refreshing scent of shower gel lingering around their noses.
"What did my brother say to you tonight?" Lin Suxing suddenly remembered the scene she had witnessed that evening and asked lazily.
Li Xinian paused slightly as he dried his hair, recalling Lin Siyi's admonition not to force himself. Comparing this person in his arms, who was now taking the initiative to invite him and was as enthusiastic as a small flame, a deep smile and doting affection welled up in his eyes.
He put down the towel, his fingertips gently brushing across Lin Suxing's warm cheek, downplaying the seriousness of the matter: "It's nothing. I just want to take good care of you."
Lin Suxing clearly didn't believe him and looked up at him suspiciously.
Li Xinian didn't intend to say anything more. He simply lowered his head and affectionately rubbed his nose against Li Xinian's, his voice deep and alluring: "Weren't you pestering me to continue in the bathroom just now? Hmm? Now... you don't want to anymore?"
Lin Suxing's face instantly turned bright red, and even her neck was tinged with crimson.
Under Li Xinian's focused and affectionate gaze, his heart pounded. The tender and heart-pounding memories of the bathroom earlier surged back, bringing with them a tingling, numbing sensation that made his legs weak.
Anyway, my brother won't say anything bad about him when he chats with Li Xinian, so who cares...
The important thing is to finish this little cake!
"I want to... Hmph, I'm going to eat you up today!"
Li Xinian's eyes grew even deeper. He tightened his arms, trapping the person who had thrown himself into his embrace between his arms and the bed, and took the initiative to deepen the kiss.
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Author's Note: I also want to write something good for you guys, but some people just won't listen (helpless). My wives can check out the descriptions in my ancient-themed novel, hehe, it's often locked [rainbow fart][let me see]
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