The Little Crybaby Continues to Court Death as a Cannon Fodder - Chapter 21

Chapter 21

Shang Ling stayed in the lounge for a long time before he finally managed to regain his composure.

He was certain the meeting had been delayed, yet they were the last to find out.

As his mind settled slightly, a cloud of doubt descended. Why was Yu Qing at Lu Feng’s place? Why was he disheveled? What were they doing?

When Shang Ling casually mentioned the incident to his assistant, Lin You wore a look of utter confusion: “President Shang, you didn’t know?”

“The young master is on a blind date with CEO Lu. They were at the hot springs earlier.”

“…”

After a long silence, Shang Ling squeezed two words through gritted teeth: “Blind date?”

“Yeah, it’s all over his social feed.” Lin You turned to the secretary, Mi Lu. “Can you see it on your end?”

Mi Lu tapped open Yu Qing’s Moments. This time, it seemed Yu Qing hadn’t blocked anyone. He had posted a gallery of photos—selfies mixed with scenery.

In the images, he stood before a setting sun, tilting his head with a smile toward the camera, appearing even more radiant than the afterglow.

Mi Lu couldn’t help but praise: “The young master is truly beautiful.”

Even if she disliked his temper, Lin You didn’t contradict her. He zoomed in on a photo: “The young master looks very happy.”

While the two talked, Shang Ling was also staring down at his phone, his brow furrowed and his expression grim.

After listening for a while, he suddenly asked: “You can both see it?”

“Yes. Can’t you?” Mi Lu laughed. “How is that possible? The young master adores you most. Even if he blocked everyone else, he’d never block you.”

Lin You chimed in with agreement. To them, it was an unquestionable fact.

Because of this, Shang Ling’s expression grew even darker. His knuckles whitened as he gripped his phone, the lines of his neck tensing. “I can’t see it.”

His secretary and his assistant could see it, but he couldn’t.

Yu Qing had blocked him.

Ignoring the stunned, disbelieving looks from Mi Lu and Lin You, he looked down at his chat history with Yu Qing.

Yu Qing used to contact him constantly, sending “good morning” and “good night” texts like clockwork.

But he hadn’t received one in a long time.

The contrast was so sharp it left Shang Ling with an indescribable feeling—like a thousand tiny needles pricking at his heart. He felt exceptionally frustrated.

Irritated, he opened his SMS messages and saw several transaction alerts.

Yu Qing’s card was linked to his phone; whenever Yu Qing bought something, he received a notification.

“What kind of company is ‘Fenglu’?”

“That’s a boutique influencer hotel near T-University. It’s got a very artistic vibe,” Lin You noted after a glance.

“The name comes from the Fontainebleau School of painting. The room layouts are quite interesting—the bathrooms are completely transparent, and the bathtubs are placed right by the floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom. Very romantic.”

Shang Ling looked at him suspiciously. “How do you know that?”

“My girlfriend and I stayed there,” Lin You said. “At 5,000 yuan, it’s likely the same room type I had. And there’s another charge here—I’m guessing he extended the stay for another week.”

Shang Ling fell silent for a long time, his fingers tightening and loosening repeatedly. Finally, he couldn’t help but ask, “What do people go there for?”

“Boss, are you joking? What else would two hot-blooded adults do in a hotel in the middle of the night? Go there to eat and chat?” Lin You shrugged helplessly. “According to the private security, the young master only booked one room, and that male college student is in there too.”

Something about that sentence snapped a nerve in Shang Ling. He stood up abruptly, his emotions boiling over: “…He’s only eighteen!”

Shang Ling had assumed Yu Qing had gone back to his own home.

Earlier, the name “Fenglu” meant nothing to him; now, it sounded piercingly offensive.

Fenglu, Fontainebleau—it sounded romantic, inviting endless imagination.

A transparent bathroom. A bathtub by the window.

Absolutely indecent!

Does Yu Qing really think being eighteen means he can do whatever he wants without consequence?

And that college student—who knows if he’s even healthy? Though he knew Old Master Yu wouldn’t allow anyone “unclean” near Yu Qing.

Yet, the thought of Yu Qing being intimate with someone else caused him to lose control.

His thin lips were pressed into a cold, hard line beneath his high bridge.

Lin You, wanting to get off work early, decided to be blunt to soothe his boss’s nerves: “President Shang, the truth is, the young master likes you.”

“What?”

“He has always liked you. That’s why he’s always causing trouble—so you’ll step in to clean up his mess. Also, many of his posts were set to ‘visible only to you’.”

“So you don’t need to worry. The young master couldn’t possibly touch that college student,” Lin You said. “He’s just trying to make you jealous.”

“The young master has been constantly asking if you’re seeing anyone. Last month, when the scandal broke between you and the heiress of the Li Group, he was furious and locked himself in his room. Taking in that student was just to get your attention.”

He added, “Just half an hour ago, the young master bought a jade pendant. He knows you love collecting jadeite, so it must be a birthday gift for you—a way to win back your favor.”

This was Lin You’s speculation, but it was logical.

A month and a half ago, right when Shang Ling’s scandal broke, Yu Qing went into seclusion. Shortly after the scandal was cleared, Yu Qing arranged to “sponsor” someone.

The intention was far too obvious.

Yu Qing likes him?

The news was so unexpected that Shang Ling was flustered, unsure of how to respond.

“But President Shang, shouldn’t you be happy that the young master is focusing his attention on someone else?”

Mi Lu asked curiously, a question that plunged Shang Ling into a new silence.

A voice inside told Shang Ling he shouldn’t care about Yu Qing, let alone keep digging into his life.

He should maintain the status quo: dislike him, treat him coldly, and offer no response.

And that is exactly what he had been doing.

Yet, whenever he thought of Yu Qing, his prideful calm and self-control were ruthlessly shattered.

A fierce struggle raged within him; a crack had opened in his heart, yet it was flooded with the sting of betrayal.

Doesn’t Yu Qing like him?

How could he go on a blind date with another man, and then stay in a hotel with yet a different man? Is this how Yu Qing “likes” someone?

And to top it off, he extended the stay for a week!

Is that “wild man” really that captivating?

Just then, a knock came at the door. It was Old Master Yu’s confidant.

He smiled at Lin You and Mi Lu, then looked at Shang Ling: “Young Master Shang, the Chairman wishes to see you.”

…

The Yu Family Mansion.

Old Master Yu stared at a photo frame on his desk, lost in thought.

Beside him, Uncle Chen spoke softly: “Recently, Young Master Shang’s attitude toward the little master has changed.”

“I noticed,” Old Master Yu said, slowly withdrawing his gaze. “Previously, I pretended not to know that Xiao Qing was using my name to chase after Shang Ling. Shang Ling didn’t like it, but he tolerated the proximity for my sake.”

“But now, Shang Ling is approaching him voluntarily, without me having to do a thing.”

“That’s a good thing,” Uncle Chen smiled. “I’m afraid Young Master Shang hasn’t even realized his own heart yet. Give them a little more time, and everything will fall into place.”

“I can’t wait that long.”

Old Master Yu sighed. “Xiao Qing has a weak constitution, and I don’t have many years left. He’s been spoiled by me, and there are wolves circling him. I can only rest easy if I leave him in Shang Ling’s hands.”

“Aside from Shang Ling, I trust no one.”

If Yu Qing had to be entrusted to someone, Shang Ling—whom he had watched grow up—was the best choice.

Shang Ling was dense when it came to romance, but his capabilities were outstanding; he had secured the top position in the company at a young age.

Only a powerhouse like him could protect Yu Qing and the massive fortune he intended to leave behind.

A servant knocked softly; a guest had arrived late at night.

Old Master Yu nodded, and Shang Ling walked in briskly.

“Grandfather, why did you arrange for Yu Qing to go on a blind date with Lu Feng? You know Lu Feng’s private life is a mess…”

“Those are just rumors.”

Old Master Yu’s tone was gentle. “The Lu boy manufactured those scandals to avoid marriage. Besides, even if it were true, I wouldn’t care.”

“Because he is strong enough.”

“I know Xiao Qing has a bad temper, but I’ve spoiled him, and ordinary people can’t handle him. Though he is arrogant, willful, and prone to tantrums, he is simple-hearted. In fact, I wish he were a bit ‘wicked’—at least then he wouldn’t be bullied.”

“After I’m gone, someone must protect him. If not, I can’t leave in peace.” Old Master Yu sighed. “Since you aren’t willing to look after him, I have to find someone else in advance.”

This was the first time Old Master Yu had addressed the matter of Yu Qing directly with Shang Ling.

Years ago, the Old Master had started testing Shang Ling’s feelings.

Out of respect, Shang Ling had never been too blunt.

Old Master Yu and Shang Ling’s grandfather were comrades-in-arms. When the Shang family faced a crisis that nearly lost them their shares, Old Master Yu had stepped in with his connections and money to stabilize Shang Ling’s position.

He had then taught Shang Ling the ways of business without reservation. Shang Ling viewed the Old Master as family.

This was the primary reason Shang Ling tolerated Yu Qing.

He should have been happy to finally be rid of this “nuisance,” but instead, he felt a sense of panic, as if he were about to lose something vital.

That hollow, groundless feeling made his blood run cold and his mind race.

The wind rattled the windows outside, sounding like a warning bell.

In this eerie atmosphere, Shang Ling’s heart hammered harder. After a long pause, he finally spoke with difficulty: “Grandfather, I never said I was unwilling.”

It was true that Shang Ling had never explicitly refused, but the Old Master knew it was only out of obligation.

The Old Master didn’t respond. Uncle Chen, skilled at reading people, immediately added: “Young Master Shang, don’t force yourself. The Master and I both know you don’t like the little master. The Master feels guilty for constantly asking you to endure him…”

“I don’t find him a nuisance.” Shang Ling denied it quickly this time. “I’m not forcing myself.”

Though he hadn’t fully sorted through his feelings, the moment he learned Yu Qing liked him, he didn’t feel repulsed.

In fact, he felt a surge of joy.

In the past, if he had learned Yu Qing liked him, he would have found it disgusting and stayed away.

But at some point, he stopped being able to feel negatively toward Yu Qing. He found himself thinking about the boy in every spare moment.

He had disliked him once, yes. But now, he wanted to try and get closer.

After his response, Shang Ling’s face showed a flicker of awkwardness. Expressing his feelings before an elder was deeply embarrassing for him.

But this reaction wasn’t enough for Old Master Yu.

“Xiao Ling,” the old man said deeply, “you must be more direct, or your grandfather won’t understand.”

“Grandfather, I can. I am willing.” Shang Ling finally made up his mind, his eyes firm as he looked up. “I am willing to look after him and protect him forever.”

He was almost pleading: “…Please, don’t look for anyone else.”

…

Meanwhile, Xi Yue told Yu Qing that the snack street near T-University had recently been in the news for food safety issues. The clean-obsessed young master naturally refused to go back there.

But he still wanted to visit a night market.

Xi Yue suggested another street with a night market that had more variety and a livelier atmosphere.

At the same time, Li Wu sent a message asking if Yu Qing was free tonight.

Yu Qing didn’t want to turn her down.

Strictly speaking, she was the first friend he had chosen for himself. He didn’t want to disappoint her.

Fortunately, Xi Yue said the night market stayed open late. Since Yu Qing had slept for a long time today, he probably wouldn’t suddenly fall asleep again.

Li Wu mentioned she had left several outfits for the painting session at Xi Yue’s studio, and he could choose one himself.

Arriving at Xi Yue’s studio, Yu Qing looked at his past works. He remained silent until Xi Yue prompted: “What do you think?”

“It’s different from Li Wu’s.” Yu Qing was always blunt. “Her paintings are full of emotion. Yours… they give me a sense of unreality. The colors are gorgeous, the images are exquisite, but there’s no clear sense of truth.”

“It’s beautiful, but empty of content. Full of technique.” He thought for a moment before adding, “I can’t feel your emotions or the message you’re trying to convey.”

Xi Yue’s expression shifted for a fraction of a second, unnoticed by Yu Qing, who sat lazily on the high platform, bracing himself with his hands. “That’s just my feeling. I’m not a professional.”

Xi Yue forced a smile. Just then, Li Wu called. She seemed to be driving, her voice more excited than the roar of the engine: “Has my muse arrived at the studio yet? Senior!”

He exchanged a look with Yu Qing and stepped into the hallway. The vulnerability he showed in front of Yu Qing vanished, replaced by confidence and banter.

Xi Yue joked: “Didn’t you say I was your muse?”

“How long ago was that? Besides, you weren’t willing to be my model,” Li Wu said. “And besides, no artist has only one muse. Now, he is my god of inspiration. Looking at him gives me endless motivation.”

“He’s too beautiful—forgive me, it’s the only word I can think of. And he’s so polite and incredibly well-behaved. He even agreed to my rude requests.”

Well-behaved? Yu Qing?

Xi Yue couldn’t help but chuckle.

As for the requests…

He knew his bold junior’s style well, but he didn’t think Yu Qing would agree to pose nude or wear those kinds of clothes.

Rustling sounds came from inside the studio. Xi Yue turned, the light illuminating half his face and tracing a sharp, cold line.

Knowing Yu Qing, it was indeed impossible for him to agree to such things.

But a sudden, bad premonition washed over him. He asked:

“What requests?”

“Guess.”

The noise inside grew louder. Xi Yue pushed the door open with one hand, and his footsteps came to an abrupt halt.

He didn’t need to guess anymore. He saw it.

At the same time, Li Wu’s excited voice rang in his ear: “I sent him several sets of clothes, and he chose a girl’s outfit! God, I can’t imagine how stunning he’ll look in it—”

CRASH.

A loud noise came from the other end of the phone, followed by several curses from Li Wu. Her speech was rapid: “Senior, please apologize to the little beauty for me. I’ve run into some trouble and might be late.”

Whatever the trouble was, it must have been serious. Li Wu hung up before Xi Yue could respond.

In truth, Xi Yue hadn’t even heard what Li Wu said. From the moment he pushed the door open, his attention was entirely captured by Yu Qing.

The high platform had been prepared: a white cloth base, scattered white feathers, white plaster statues as a backdrop, and gauzy curtains that made the scene hazy and sensual.

Yu Qing was sitting in the center. One leg was raised while the other was pressed naturally against the platform, squeezing the lush, sexy flesh of his thigh.

He hadn’t expected Xi Yue to burst in. In a panic, he dropped his leg.

He clutched the center of the skirt, his small face filled with shock, anger, and obvious shame.

Yu Qing was wearing a blue wig and a basic sailor-style school uniform. It was extremely sheer—the fabric was almost completely transparent. One could see a hint of pink on one side, while the other was covered by a band-aid.

The bow tie was a deep red, contrasting sharply with his pale skin.

The hem of the top barely covered his chest. Because his waist was so thin, the skirt kept sliding down, catching on his full hips and revealing his delicate navel.

The skirt was impossibly short; even while sitting, the pure white fabric beneath was visible.

Perhaps because Xi Yue’s gaze was so intense, Yu Qing grew inexplicably nervous, and his elbow knocked something over.

The makeup nearby tipped, and a tube of lip glaze that hadn’t been capped splashed onto his snow-white thigh like a spray of stars.

His slender, trembling fingers rubbed forcefully at his thigh, the soft flesh spilling between his fingers as he tried to wipe it away.

But the more he rubbed, the worse it looked. Not only was his thigh stained with varying shades of red glaze, but it was also flushed from the rough treatment.

Between his frantic attempts to clean himself and the way his knees rubbed together in his panic…

He looked, for all the world, as if he were touching himself.