After Entering a Contract Marriage with a Disabled Alpha - Chapter 11
The hint in his eyes felt like a small feather brushing against Pei Yu’s heart.
Realizing that his betrothal partner was someone he had met a few times before, the anxious Pei Yu suddenly felt a wave of relief. He looked at Qin Shen’s extended hand and shook it solemnly.
As their fingers brushed against each other, he noticed the man’s hand was dry and warm, much larger than his own.
“Hello, my name is Pei Yu.” Pei Yu gave a slight shake. As he let go, his pinky finger grazed the man’s palm.
Standing beside Qin Shen, Li Shuang noticed that Pei Yu looked completely different from a few days ago, and her eyes flickered with interest.
“You’re Qin Shen?!”
Staring at the sharp, handsome man before him, Lin Shuxing stood up in disbelief, repeatedly muttering, “How is this possible?”
“Is there a problem?” Qin Shen swept a casual glance over him.
It was a flat gaze, devoid of any emotion, yet it was enough to send a chill running through Lin Shuxing’s entire body.
How could there not be a problem?!
This man was nothing like the rumors. Aside from his legs, his profound features and commanding aura were more than enough to overshadow his physical disability.
Lin Shuxing recognized the watch on Qin Shen’s wrist—a limited-edition Swiss luxury timepiece. When he was hanging out with other rich heirs, some had mentioned wanting it, but the price was a massive burden even for their families.
How was this so different from what he had imagined?
“Why are you shouting? Sit down. Do not be impolite to President Qin,” Lin Yifeng warned sternly, while Luo Meihua smiled nearby to ease the tension.
In truth, they had also been surprised when they first went out to greet him. However, Lin Yifeng recalled interviews from financial media years ago; as a brilliant young talent, even if Qin Shen was disabled, he wouldn’t fall from grace as long as he had the backing of the Qin Corporation.
Ultimately, the outside rumors had simply exaggerated things. As long as it didn’t affect the cooperation between the two families, it was fine.
“It’s the first time they’ve met; the child is just a bit surprised,” Luo Meihua squeezed out an awkward smile. She glared at Lin Shuxing with a warning in her eyes. Making a scene and losing face in front of a son-in-law was a matter of family upbringing.
“It’s fine.” Qin Shen tapped his fingers lightly on the wheelchair armrest. “I can understand.”
“I’ve heard a bit about the rumors outside. Such a reaction is normal.”
A series of awkward laughs filled the living room.
Lin Shuxing sat back down on the sofa, feeling restless. He caught a glimpse of faint mockery in Pei Yu’s eyes.
Did Pei Yu know about Qin Shen’s real situation all along?
And he was just acting in front of me?
If he had known Qin Shen was like this, he wouldn’t have called Jiang He last night to complain about not wanting the marriage. Feeling like he had missed out on a “big catch,” Lin Shuxing sulked in frustration.
Over a few cups of tea, Lin Yifeng shifted the conversation toward the business marriage. He was impatient to sign the partnership with the Qin Corporation. With Qin’s advanced AI technology, Lingfeng Electrical’s smart home series could significantly improve in performance, allowing them to stand out and become a leading enterprise in Jiangcheng.
And all he had to give up was Pei Yu—a son he didn’t love.
Pei Yu and Qin Shen had a 100% compatibility rate. No Alpha would ever let go of a “Destined Omega.” They were a match made in heaven.
While Qin Shen handled the social niceties unhurriedly, the small rose on his chest found its way into Pei Yu’s hand when no one was looking. Pei Yu’s fair fingertips fiddled with the bright red petals, catching a faint floral scent.
It smelled exactly like his own pheromones.
Pei Yu reasonably suspected that Qin Shen had brought this flower on purpose; the delicate rose didn’t quite match the man’s cold, stern aura. Not knowing much about business, he listened quietly from the side. During the conversation, Qin Shen would occasionally glance sideways at him.
About half an hour later, a glowing Lin Yifeng signed his name.
“Regarding the wedding, considering that Young Master Pei is currently entering his senior year of high school, his college entrance exams should be the priority. My plan is to get engaged first and postpone the wedding,” Qin Shen said.
Pei Yu was slightly stunned. If it was just an engagement, there would indeed be more flexibility and room to maneuver later.
Meeting his gaze, Pei Yu’s eyes were filled with obvious gratitude. In his heart, he began handing out “Good Person” cards to Mr. Qin repeatedly.
Qin Shen, who vaguely felt he was being called a “good man” again: “…”
“Of course, no problem. Everything will be according to your wishes, President Qin,” Lin Yifeng said urgently.
Qin Shen lazily added, “However, before that, I hope the Lin family can formally and publicly acknowledge Pei Yu’s identity. Otherwise—”
“That goes without saying.”
Lin Yifeng lied without blinking. “The Lin family was already preparing a homecoming banquet. I’ve just been too busy recently to find the time. I will have someone arrange it as soon as possible.”
Since the marriage partner was the Qin family, he did indeed need to clarify Pei Yu’s status as the “True Young Master” so as not to cause the Qin family to lose face.
These words hit Lin Shuxing and Pei Yu like small stones tossed into a pond.
When he was first brought back, Pei Yu had occasionally hoped his parents would announce his identity, but he eventually stopped thinking about it. Now that the matter was brought up again—and only because of a casual remark from Qin Shen—Lin Yifeng was fawning and agreeing. Pei Yu found the Lin family increasingly hypocritical and ridiculous.
Lin Shuxing couldn’t take it anymore. He had worked so hard to convince Luo Meihua not to announce Pei Yu’s identity, using the excuse that Pei Yu didn’t know high-society etiquette, was a Beta, and wasn’t good-looking. He argued that a banquet would only cause outsiders to gossip about how the Lin family managed to lose their own son.
But now, a single sentence from Qin Shen had destroyed all his efforts. Finally, unwilling to lose more face in front of Pei Yu, Lin Shuxing made an excuse and fled.
“One last confirmation.” Qin Shen looked steadily at Pei Yu. “Regarding the marriage, is Young Master Pei doing this voluntarily?”
His voice was intentionally lowered, deep and heavy, seemingly carrying a hint of playfulness.
Pei Yu was puzzled. He and Qin Shen had been communicating via email; if he weren’t willing, he would have found a way to run away long ago. Yet, Qin Shen was asking him so seriously.
Lin Yifeng and Luo Meihua stared at Pei Yu, fearing he might play some petty tricks. Under their burning gazes, Pei Yu opened his lips.
“Yes, I am willing.”
“Willing to come with me?”
To Pei Yu’s ears, these words seemed to carry another layer of meaning, though he wondered if he was overthinking it.
“Willing to come with me,” Pei Yu said, his ears turning hot.
Lin Yifeng and Luo Meihua breathed a sigh of relief. A faint, reserved smile tugged at the corners of Qin Shen’s lips. Standing to the side holding the partnership proposal, Li Shuang looked at her boss as if he were a weirdo kidnapping a child.
Considering Pei Yu’s school started the next morning and moving things during the week would be inconvenient, Qin Shen took advantage of the free time today to ask if Pei Yu wanted to head back with him.
Pei Yu knew Mr. Qin wouldn’t hurt him and trusted him completely. Without thinking twice, he agreed. He felt uncomfortable living in the Lin house anyway; since he had agreed to the marriage, it was natural for him to live with Mr. Qin.
“Okay, I’ll go upstairs and pack my things,” Pei Yu said.
The path upstairs in the Lin house only had wooden stairs. Qin Shen couldn’t follow, so he sent Li Shuang to help while he waited in the living room.
Lin Yifeng naturally didn’t waste this idle time, enthusiastically introducing Lingfeng Electrical and seeking more cooperation. Qin Shen chatted with him half-heartedly, showing no real interest.
The AI partnership alone would bring immense wealth to the Lin family; it wasn’t just a single order, but something that would help them seize the market. As for what came after…
Qin Shen’s thick, dark eyelashes drooped, partially veiling his ink-colored eyes. It was a pity Pei Yu had given him so many “Good Person” cards; he wasn’t actually a good man.
After only a few minutes of chatting, footsteps came from upstairs. Qin Shen watched the boy descending the stairs, his gaze shifting to the suitcase that Li Shuang was carrying easily.
Pei Yu had so few belongings; such a small suitcase wasn’t even full. Perhaps Pei Yu had never planned on staying long at the Lin house. It was as if at any moment, he could pack his meager belongings, close the suitcase, and leave.
A faint trace of heartache spread through Qin Shen. Thinking about how Pei Yu had been forced to drink and bullied outside, a slight pang of bitterness rose in his heart. However, the feeling was fleeting, and Qin Shen’s face soon returned to its usual distant coldness.
“Mr. Qin, I’m finished packing.” Pei Yu thanked Li Shuang and took his suitcase.
Qin Shen gave a low “Mm” and looked up at Lin Yifeng. “My assistant will communicate with you regarding the details of the engagement.”
“Good.” Fearing Pei Yu might ruin his plans after leaving, Lin Yifeng urged, “Listen to Mr. Qin when you’re there. We will take good care of Jiang He.”
There was a hidden threat in those words. Pei Yu bit his lip and was about to respond when Qin Shen waved his hand to interrupt.
“I almost forgot to mention this.”
“Since the Qin Corporation has made certain research breakthroughs regarding pheromone disorder, the high-end nursing home where Jiang He stays is also a property of the Qin Corporation. From today on, I will take over responsibility for her medical care.”
Lin Yifeng, who stood to save a large sum of money, should have been happy, but he felt something was off. Thinking of the ironclad contract, he considered it and said, “Alright, then I’ll trouble President Qin with that.”
“It’s no trouble, just a minor matter,” Qin Shen said. “If there’s nothing else, I shall take my leave.”
Pei Yu pulled his suitcase, following closely behind the wheelchair. He looked down at the man’s broad, straight back and whispered, “Thank you.”
He bowed quickly and straightened just as fast. Qin Shen only felt his earlobe brushed by a vivid, hot breath. Perhaps he really was a bit obsessed with the boy saying thank you—obsessed with being that “good man” in Pei Yu’s heart.
A simple word of thanks improved his mood considerably. With the boy’s breathing, the sweet scent of wild roses climbed onto his cheeks and shoulders. It was a trace amount of pheromones released unconsciously between destined AOs.
A hint of a smile appeared in Qin Shen’s eyes. “You’re welcome.”
As noon approached, bright sunlight fell upon the corners of Pei Yu’s exquisite eyes and brows. Step by step, he walked toward the door, leaving that cold home behind.
A pure black luxury car was parked at the villa entrance. Seeing them come out, the driver got out, opened the rear door, and skillfully lifted Qin Shen into the seat before folding the wheelchair and putting it in the trunk.
He turned and opened the door on the other side. “Young Master, please.”
Pei Yu’s cheeks felt a bit hot as he slowly climbed into the back seat. As the car started smoothly, Pei Yu glanced at the interior decorations. In the small, enclosed space, he caught a scent of crisp, clean cedar. Realizing this was Mr. Qin’s pheromones, his face flushed slightly.
“I didn’t expect you to be the person who has been sponsoring my schooling all this time.”
Pei Yu brought it up and asked, “Why didn’t you tell me yesterday, Mr. Qin? I was startled when I saw you just now.” He thought Mr. Qin might have had some reason for keeping it from him.
Qin Shen: “I just wanted to tease you and see your surprised expression.”
“?” Pei Yu’s eyes widened slightly, thinking Mr. Qin was a bit improper.
But the current situation was already very lucky for him. Whether it was a few days ago or now, Mr. Qin was truly too kind.
“Are you giving me another ‘Good Person’ card in your head?” Qin Shen raised an eyebrow.
Pei Yu felt as if he had been caught red-handed. Not knowing why he felt guilty, he stammered, “Yes.”
“But I’m not as good as you think, you know?” Qin Shen looked at Pei Yu with dark, deep eyes.
Pei Yu thought Mr. Qin was being modest again. How could someone who sponsored so many students not be a good person? And on the day he accidentally entered his second differentiation, as an Alpha with 100% compatibility, he had restrained the instinctual desire for control and possession flowing in his blood—a total “good man.”
Pei Yu stared at Qin Shen with eyes as clear and clean as glass beads. Seeing his innocent look, Qin Shen knew Pei Yu hadn’t taken his words to heart. He decided to let Pei Yu see the “sinister” side of society.
“Li Shuang, give me the other marriage agreement,” Qin Shen said.
Li Shuang opened her briefcase, took out an A4-sized document and a fountain pen, and handed them to Qin Shen. She also thoughtfully had the driver raise the partition.
With the already small space now cut off, Pei Yu couldn’t help but feel nervous being alone with Qin Shen. He repeatedly told himself that Mr. Qin was kind-hearted and wouldn’t hurt him—there was no need to be afraid.
…Until he saw certain clauses in the marriage agreement.
[During the agreement period, Pei Yu, as the Omega party, has the responsibility and obligation to assist Qin Shen in treating his pheromone disorder.]
The first point required him to cooperate with the medical research institute under the Qin Corporation, such as providing small amounts of blood containing pheromones.
The second point stated that pheromones released by the Omega could soothe, alleviate, and effectively reduce Qin Shen’s symptoms; thus, he and Qin Shen needed to exchange pheromones as much as possible.
And the methods for AOs to exchange pheromones: holding hands, hugging, kissing, temporary marking, and even permanent marking.
Seeing those last two phrases, Pei Yu’s eyelids jumped. He suddenly remembered when he had helped Mr. Qin get dressed and accidentally glimpsed something… imposing.
Like holding a hot potato, Pei Yu’s grip loosened, and the folder dropped onto his lap. His ears turned burning red, and he felt like steam was about to come out of his head.
Although there were benefits promised by Mr. Qin at the beginning—such as providing room and board, a monthly allowance, and the ability to make any lifestyle requests—the exchange conditions at the end were truly embarrassing and shameful.
“It seems you finally understand that I’m not a good person.” Qin Shen picked up the agreement that had fallen on Pei Yu’s lap.
Pei Yu’s face turned redder and redder. He couldn’t help but talk back: “But the agreement also says that all treatment is contingent upon my consent.”
Qin Shen suddenly laughed, his chest vibrating slightly. The sexy, low, husky sound reached Pei Yu’s ears, making his cheeks even hotter.
He bit his lip and muttered, “It is. What are you laughing at?”
Qin Shen reached out and ruffled the boy’s fluffy hair twice, like petting a kitten. He uncapped the pen, the nib gleaming with a cold, silvery light. Handing the pen to Pei Yu, he asked in a low voice, “So, will you sign?”
Pei Yu looked down at the man’s slender fingers; the cold white skin contrasted sharply with the royal blue pen barrel. His hands were very attractive. Perhaps from writing so much or frequent rehabilitation exercises, there was a thin layer of transparent calluses on his fingertips.
As if waiting for Pei Yu to decide, Qin Shen wasn’t in a hurry at all, as if he wouldn’t say anything even if Pei Yu didn’t sign.
But Pei Yu was simply too “good.”
He felt that Mr. Qin had helped him so much—sponsorship, his mother’s medical care, their chance encounters, and helping him escape the Lin family, who would sell him as a tool at any moment. He felt he should do something for Mr. Qin.
The image of Jiang He being tormented by illness was vivid in his mind. Omegas had suppressants for heat, but there were essentially no effective medications on the market to control or alleviate the torture Alphas went through during their rut.
Pei Yu could imagine the pain Mr. Qin had to grit his teeth and endure during those times.
He took the pen, his fingertips touching the man’s. A spark of heat seemed to ignite and spread throughout his body.
Pei Yu said in a tiny voice, “It all has to be voluntary first, okay?”
“Yes, of course. The agreement is proof; I will never force you to do anything you don’t like.”
Qin Shen was “luring” the innocent Omega, hiding his mischievous intentions.
“Okay. Actually, it’s only right that I do something to help you.” Pei Yu looked at the sharp, elegant signature “Qin Shen” in the Party A column and wrote his own name stroke by stroke.
“Signed.” Pei Yu capped the pen and handed the document to Qin Shen.
The corners of Qin Shen’s lips lifted slightly. He clipped the pen to the cover and set the document carefully beside him.
The car drove all the way toward the old Qin residence.
Pei Yu remembered that exchanging pheromones to a certain extent could slowly alleviate Mr. Qin’s condition. He lowered his eyes, quietly observing Qin Shen’s left hand resting not far from his leg. The slender knuckles were curved, and with the vibration of the car, they occasionally twitched slightly.
“What are you looking at?” Qin Shen asked keenly.
Just as he spoke, his fingers felt a very distinct warmth. His dark gaze paused. He turned his head and saw a hand resting lightly over the back of his own.
He was too shy. Pei Yu didn’t dare actually grip it; he just covered it with his palm, his fingers trembling with embarrassment.
“I… I want to slowly exchange pheromones like this.” Pei Yu’s heart raced.
The man’s gaze became deep and intense, carrying a burning heat and an unreadable meaning.
“Do you not like this?” Pei Yu almost pulled his hand back under such a powerful gaze.
He moved, but couldn’t retract it. His hand was firmly grasped by Qin Shen. The man’s hand was much larger than his, easily enveloping him and tightening its hold.
Pei Yu only felt his palm go numb and hot. Gradually, a thin layer of sweat broke out on his palm, and his heartbeat became erratic. He wanted to regret it, but he couldn’t escape at all.
“I don’t dislike it.” Qin Shen moved his knuckles, gently rubbing the boy’s sensitive palm.
That bit of sweat helped the scent of wild roses evaporate slowly. From the corner of his eye, Qin Shen’s gaze remained on the boy’s faintly flushed cheeks.
His throat felt an involuntary itch.
This is going to be the death of me.