The Villain Has A Yuri Halo [Quick Transmigration] - Chapter 48

The stars were sparse in the sky, hinting at another gloomy, rainy day tomorrow. A few mischievous stars hid behind the clouds, peering curiously at Mu Linglong, who wore a look of utter grievance. They flickered nervously, startled by the stark contrast between her delicate appearance and her fierce reaction.

Li Ju hadn’t expected this seemingly fragile Mu Linglong to deliver such a “surprise.” Amusement sparkled in her captivating eyes as she grew increasingly excited about their future together. Life with Mu Linglong would certainly never be dull.

Hearing the drunkard’s drunken curses, Li Ju stepped forward and kicked him. Then, gripping Mu Linglong’s hand tightly, she turned and fled.

“Come with me,” she urged.

The woman’s slender wrist felt as if it could shatter with the slightest pressure. Li Ju couldn’t help but think Mu Linglong, struggling to keep up behind her, was made of delicate glass. How could someone be so utterly delicate and fragile in every way?

Li Ju glanced back teasingly. “The young lady was quite fierce just now!”

Flattered by the praise, Mu Linglong smiled shyly, pressing her lips together. She couldn’t explain why her emotions had overwhelmed her earlier, causing her reserved smile to blossom into unrestrained laughter. Her eyes sparkled with delight as she exclaimed, “Li Ju, hitting him and running away—that was truly hilarious!”

“Why wouldn’t we run? Drunks like that are just trouble. There’s no point in fighting him to the end. We already beat him up—consider it a public service.”

Mu Linglong gazed at Li Ju’s wind-tossed hair, feeling as if those loose strands had tangled around her eyes, making it impossible to look away.

She should be scared, but why did she feel so exhilarated?

Was it because she had defeated a human who once terrified her, or because this human had brought her such novel joy?

Mu Linglong couldn’t figure it out, nor did she want to waste her energy on such difficult questions.

All she knew was that she felt incredibly happy right now.

Humans weren’t as terrifying as she had imagined. That one punch had sent the drunk doubling over in pain, clutching his stomach. She had truly earned Li Ju’s praise!

Mu Linglong smiled. “Li Ju, you’re a truly, truly wonderful human.”

Without Li Ju, she would never have dared to go out to eat today. Li Ju had opened up a whole new world for her.

Li Ju remained silent, smiling as she adjusted her glasses. She was as radiant as a rose blooming in the night, her passion burning bright and intense.

Mu Linglong quickened her pace to catch up with Li Ju, her attention entirely focused on Li Ju, oblivious to the fact that the drunken man had collapsed to his knees, his face pale as he vomited. This showed the true extent of the pain Li Ju’s strike had inflicted, revealing that this woman was far from the gentle facade she presented—her danger level was exceptionally high.

However, Mu Linglong knew she would have to uncover this side of Li Ju herself. That’s what made it so intriguing.

“We’re here,” Li Ju said to Mu Linglong, releasing her hand the next moment.

The smooth, supple skin left Li Ju feeling a pang of reluctance. The texture had been so exquisite to the touch. She finally understood what novels meant when they described something feeling like mutton-fat jade.

Mu Linglong instinctively hid behind Li Ju, cautiously surveying the restaurant’s interior. Seeing that it wasn’t crowded, she relaxed.

“The owner’s specialty is spicy chicken. Want to try it?” Li Ju casually draped an arm around Mu Linglong’s shoulder. The moment her arm settled, Mu Linglong’s eyes widened.

Li Ju smiled. Mu Linglong let out a soft huff, temporarily forgiving her.

“Is it good?” she asked.

“These are all my signature dishes. Do you think they’ll be good?”

Mu Linglong ventured cautiously, “Shall we try them?”

Li Ju corrected her, “Please say, ‘Shall we try them?’ Don’t use rhetorical questions with me. It makes our relationship seem distant. Or do you still see me as a stranger?”

Mu Linglong’s distrust of humans was even deeper than Li Ju had imagined. Her immediate goal was to make Mu Linglong feel comfortable around her as quickly as possible. Overly formal interactions would only stall their progress, so Li Ju needed to take the initiative.

Mu Linglong repeated her words, then quickly added, “No, no, no! You’re already my best human friend.”

“Human friend? That’s a rather odd way to put it,” Li Ju said, feigning ignorance just to see Mu Linglong’s flustered expression.

Mu Linglong quickly lowered her beautiful eyes, unable to meet Li Ju’s sharp gaze. She stammered, “Yes, human friend. Because I’ve already met two non-human friends at your house, I thought ‘human friend’ would be the appropriate term for you.”

“When did we get another non-human in the house?” Li Ju glanced at Mu Linglong with a knowing look. Wasn’t there only one non-human here? How are there two now?

Mu Linglong replied earnestly, “One is my old book friend in the attic, and the other is those flowers in the courtyard. It rained heavily this morning, and I got soaked moving them. That’s why I needed a shower! My sudden disappearance had a reason—I was sticking my neck out for my friends!”

Li Ju’s eyes widened in realization. “So there’s so much history here! I misunderstood you. Then I must congratulate Miss Mu on making new friends in my home.”

Mu Linglong hadn’t realized how childish her earlier behavior had been, but Li Ju’s response suddenly filled her with embarrassment.

Could this be what humans call “social death”?

No normal person would say such things! But then again, I’m not human, so it’s not surprising.

What was truly strange was how Li Ju, without a flicker of emotion, had played along with her whims and even congratulated her on making new friends.

This… this was too much for a mermaid to bear!

Without looking back, she darted into the shop, Mu Linglong’s first genuine desire to connect with humans. She feared Li Ju would notice her blushing cheeks.

Li Ju smirked mischievously, recognizing the hasty retreat in Mu Linglong’s retreating figure—a small but significant step forward.

Following Mu Linglong inside, Li Ju tilted her head and whispered, “Remember to introduce me to your new friend sometime~”

Mu Linglong glared at her, flustered and indignant. “Do you even want to eat? I was going to treat you today, but if you keep this up, I’ll make you pay for everything!”

Li Ju shrugged nonchalantly. “Your parents have helped me for years. I’m a grateful person. Even if you spend my entire life’s savings, I wouldn’t mind.”

Mu Linglong huffed, turning her head away in a display of tsundere pride, and plopped down in a random seat.

Mu Linglong wasn’t exaggerating. Having been pampered for years, she could easily drain Li Ju’s salary for several years with a single shopping spree fueled by a childish tantrum.

But Mu Linglong was sensible; she had no intention of doing so.

She was grateful for Li Ju’s temporary shelter. Once her clan had settled their vendettas, she would reward Li Ju handsomely.

As for why she hadn’t sought revenge herself, Mu Linglong understood her limitations perfectly. She was merely a beautiful, useless ornament. Such crucial matters, where failure was not an option, should be entrusted to the clan elders.

As long as she could avenge her family, Mu Linglong would agree to anything.

Li Ju wiped the table with a damp cloth, then smiled, resting her cheek in her hand. “Why are you ignoring me?”

“I don’t want to talk to you.”

Deliberately twisting the truth, Li Ju feigned disappointment. “Does Miss Mu think I’m not rich enough? Or that I’m too stingy to spend money on you?”

Mu Linglong haughtily lifted her chin. “Your acting is terrible. I can see right through your act.”

Undeterred, Li Ju pressed on. “So, is Miss Mu willing to talk to me now?”

Mu Linglong nodded condescendingly. “Hmm, I suppose I can deign to speak to you.”

The moment the words left her lips, Li Ju burst out laughing.

Mu Linglong couldn’t maintain her facade any longer. Her small face remained tense, but the corners of her eyes and the tips of her brows betrayed her amusement.
Li Ju handed her the menu, gesturing grandly. “Order whatever you want. It’s on me tonight.”

Mu Linglong pondered for a moment, then turned her eyes and whispered, “Li Ju, lean in closer. I want to tell you something.”

“What is it?”

The woman’s fragrance was delicate and refreshing, likely a floral scent, Mu Linglong thought.

Her gaze drifted to the pearl earrings dangling from Li Ju’s earlobes, swaying playfully. Mu Linglong couldn’t help but recall the pearl hairpin she cherished so much she couldn’t bear to wear it, keeping it safely tucked away in her luggage.

Her eyes sparkled like gemstones.

Li Ju softened her gaze and asked, “What did you want to tell me?”

I’ve already leaned in. Why are you just staring blankly instead of speaking?

“Do you like aquamarine?”

Li Ju replied seriously, “To be honest, I’m not that refined. As long as it’s a gemstone, I’ll like it.”

Mu Linglong understood. “The more expensive, the better, right?”

“Exactly,” Li Ju nodded.

Mu Linglong smiled. “I get it now. When my relatives come to pick me up, I’ll give you a piece of aquamarine! It’s so beautiful, like the ocean, and very popular.”

“Another gemstone? Miss Mu, you’re so generous!” Li Ju really wanted to be a Merman for a day, just to experience what it felt like to cry tears that turned into gemstones!

“We’re friends, aren’t we? Humans adore gemstones, so I naturally want to give you the best.”

Li Ju was certain that the female lead of this world was a true embodiment of kindness and beauty—a pity she had to cross paths with someone like herself.

She poked Mu Linglong’s forehead with her finger, straightened her posture, and stopped leaning in to listen.

“One is enough for me,” Li Ju said gently. “You’ll be living alone soon, so you should keep these precious gems for yourself.”

Host, you’re acting like such a selfless, virtuous person!

Host…

System 666’s words were abruptly cut off as Li Ju blocked it. She glanced at the remaining block time and sighed. If only I could block it for twenty-four hours straight, I’d have so much peace and quiet.

Mu Linglong refused to take no for an answer, declaring domineeringly, “This thing is worthless! Take it! Humans love these, so you’ll definitely like it too. Besides, the aquamarines Rongguang hoards are all top-quality; he’d have sold the ordinary ones to humans long ago.”

Li Ju’s smile faltered. “Who’s Rongguang?” she asked urgently.

“He’s a friend of mine,” Mu Linglong explained. “My father used to buy aquamarines from him. They were always excellent quality and sold for high prices.”

Li Ju frowned slightly. Already encountering the male lead this early?

And what was this about “Rongguang’s hidden Aquamarines being top-quality”? Those things were all his tears—how could they possibly be good?

As the villainess, Li Ju could never see the male lead in a favorable light.

Especially since he was willing to die for Mu Linglong.

What a noble male lead, she thought, making Li Ju feel even more like a despicable villain.

Though, she was truly despicable.

Still, Li Ju felt inexplicably annoyed.

She smiled faintly. “Miss Mu, I believe the most beautiful gemstone in the world is the pink gem. I don’t need any other gems; just one kind is enough.”

Mu Linglong grinned uncontrollably. “You really think pink gems are the prettiest?”

“Of course. Isn’t the one you gave me perfect? I think it’s wonderful.”

No one could resist sweet words, not even a non-human Merman.

Mu Linglong felt a surge of happiness, so much so that she wanted to give Li Ju more pink gems.

“So… you only want pink gems, not Aquamarines?”

Li Ju was unwavering. Why would I keep the male lead’s tears? To make myself miserable?

“I want the pink gemstone.”

“OK!”

Mu Linglong’s hands, resting on her lap, tapped excitedly against her knees. Gaining Li Ju’s approval was truly something worth celebrating.

“Let’s have a proper feast tonight!”

Li Ju smiled. “Sounds good.”

But her smile didn’t reach her eyes. She stared intently at Mu Linglong, as if anticipating the sight of her tear-filled eyes.

As she had said before, she was deeply curious about how a Merman’s tears transformed into gemstones.

She longed to witness it firsthand.

Li Ju’s lips curled into a faint smile.

“Hello, is this Miss Mu Linglong? I have a package here that requires your signature upon delivery.”

Mu Linglong gripped her phone tightly, hesitating before asking, “Does it really need to be signed in person?”

The deliveryman replied responsibly, “Yes, it’s company policy. We appreciate your understanding.”

She hung her head dejectedly, then suddenly clenched her fist, trying to rally her spirits.

Mu Linglong agreed. When she cautiously peeked out the door to meet the deliveryman, he froze in place.

“Hello? How should I sign for the package?”

The deliveryman stared in disbelief, mechanically pulling out a pen and handing it to him.

Mu Linglong quickly signed her name, her gaze darting away as she murmured a timid “Thank you” before closing the door.

The deliveryman rubbed his face, wondering if he had just dreamed it all. Was that really a real person he’d seen?

Just then, Xiao Xue, who lived across the hall, emerged from her apartment. She crossed her arms and coughed a few times, her wary expression making the deliveryman smile awkwardly.

Xiao Xue, who had just gotten out of school, vigilantly approached Mu Linglong’s door, only relaxing after the deliveryman had left.

It wasn’t that she casually suspected people, but Mu Linglong was truly beautiful. Such beauty could attract unwanted attention, and that was a terrifying thought.

Xiao Xue felt it was her duty to protect the timid and shy Sister Linglong. After all, she could even protect her grandmother, so protecting Sister Linglong would be a piece of cake.

“Xiao Xue, are you here to see Miss Mu?”

Li Ju, who had just gotten off work and was walking home, spotted the spirited Xiao Xue and asked warmly.

Xiao Xue turned around excitedly and greeted her affectionately, “Sister Xiaoju, you’re off work so early today!”

Li Ju handed Xiao Xue a box of mochi filled with sweet bean paste, along with another pastry for her grandmother. “I picked up some treats for you and Grandma at the dessert shop,” she said.

“Thank you, Sister Xiaoju!” Xiao Xue beamed.

Xiao Xue pointed to the small cake in the box and asked kindly, “Is this for Sister Linglong?”

Li Ju chuckled. “Of course we can’t forget the young lady. This one’s for her.”

Xiao Xue looked up at Li Ju, who seemed capable of handling any situation with ease. Over the years, their lives with Grandma had been constantly disrupted by her eccentric father. Even now, she wasn’t entirely sure how Li Ju had managed to drive him away. Neither she nor Grandma had ever asked about it; they had both tA’Citly agreed to completely ignore the man.

Xiao Xue longed to become a woman like Li Ju—someone who could strategize and control every situation. She idolized her.

Xiao Xue winked and whispered, “Sister Linglong seems really popular, doesn’t she? What do you think about that, Sister Xiaoju?”

Li Ju frowned in confusion. “Popular? How would you know Miss Mu is getting attention? She’s a homebody who stays inside all day.”

“Well, just now, that delivery guy was completely mesmerized! If I hadn’t shown up when I did, I bet he would have asked for Sister Linglong’s contact information.”

The smile faded slightly from Li Ju’s eyes. A delivery? Why would there be a delivery? Could it be something from her clan meant for Mu Linglong?

Her brow furrowed. Their relationship was still just that of ordinary friends. If her clan tried to take her away, Mu Linglong wouldn’t hesitate to let her go.

Regardless of who sent the delivery, it served as a warning. Li Ju needed to act faster.

“Sister Xiaoju, are you worried someone might pursue Sister Linglong?” Xiao Xue teased, but Li Ju didn’t brush it off. She thought carefully before replying, “If someone could truly love her, and she loved them back, I’d be happy for her. That’s what her parents always told me. Now that I’m taking care of her, I want to cherish and care for her just as they did.”

She patted Xiao Xue’s head, the evening glow painting the sky behind her. The sunset seemed to embrace Li Ju, its warm, passionate light adding an unparalleled radiance to her chestnut-orange hair.

Leaning down, she whispered with a hint of embarrassment, “You’re right, though. I do get a little nervous when someone pursues her. But this is our little secret, okay? You can’t tell her!”

After another gentle pat on Xiao Xue’s head, Li Ju urged her to go home.

Xiao Xue blinked her eyes and promised earnestly, “Don’t worry, Sister Xiaoju! I won’t tell Sister Linglong!”

A knowing glint flashed in Li Ju’s eyes, her radiant smile captivatingly beautiful.

She waved goodbye as Xiao Xue left.

As Li Ju pushed open the door, she heard the attic window slam shut with a thud. Remaining composed and seemingly oblivious, she called out, “Miss Mu, I bought a cake for you! Should I bring it up to the attic?”

Mu Linglong’s shy voice soon drifted down, “N-no, thank you. Just leave it in the living room. I’ll have some later.”

“Alright! The shop assistant said this flavor is very popular. I thought Miss Mu would enjoy it.”

Li Ju explained calmly as she locked the door behind her.

Mu Linglong peered timidly through the narrow crack, observing Li Ju. The woman bent over, examining the flowers in the pots, her employee badge swaying gently at her chest, a lively contrast to Li Ju’s composed demeanor.

Li Ju’s profile was a familiar sight of beauty to Mu Linglong.

Yet now, Mu Linglong’s breathing was slightly hurried, the warmth still lingering on her cheeks.

When Mu Linglong noticed the cake packaging dangling from Li Ju’s slender fingertips, she couldn’t help but ask, “Li Ju, you bought Xiao Xue and Grandma their favorite foods, and this cake is for me. What about you? What are you going to eat?”

Li Ju’s heartstrings tugged slightly. The feeling of being cared for was undeniably pleasant.

However, this also confirmed that Mu Linglong had overheard everything Li Ju had said earlier.

Li Ju smiled brightly, fully aware of the poor soundproofing in the house. Only the naive Xiao Xue still innocently believed Li Ju was a kind person, unaware of her subtle manipulations.

“It doesn’t matter if I eat or not,” Li Ju replied. “I’m fine.”

Mu Linglong pushed the window open with a disapproving shove, her expression serious. “Don’t say it doesn’t matter! You need to have some too!”

“Then what should I do?”

“We can all share the cake together, right?”

Li Ju said, deeply moved, “Miss Mu, you’re so kind to me.”

Mu Linglong pouted. It’s not like I’m being that kind. This Li Ju woman is just too easily pleased, isn’t she?

And… and she seems to care about me a lot. Did my parents say something to her? Or is everything Li Ju does genuine?

She noticed that whenever Li Ju was in her sight, she felt an overwhelming sense of presence. It was so strange.

“Come down quickly,” Li Ju said, her eyes curving into a smile.

Mu Linglong closed the window and called out, “Wait for me!”

Li Ju stretched contentedly, feeling utterly satisfied.

Host, you’re a genius! Being this good to her—let’s see if she’ll still want to leave you!

Your acting was superb this time, Host!

Li Ju chuckled. “Who said I was acting? My kindness toward her is genuine, just as my malice is. Humans are like that—complex and cunning.”

Is that so?

“Yes.”

The dainty cake was perfectly sized for one person, so Li Ju only ate a strawberry. Her actions drew a reproachful glare from Mu Linglong, who aggressively scooped up a bite and shoved it into Li Ju’s mouth. “Eat! Eat it all!”

“Alright, alright, I’ll eat,” Li Ju said, raising her hands in mock surrender. She didn’t forget to ask her question.

“Xiao Xue mentioned you had a package. Who sent it? You never order online, so it must be a gift. That person really doesn’t understand Miss Mu at all. Knowing how shy you are, they still sent you a package? If it were me, I’d never treat Miss Mu like that.”

Mu Linglong completely missed the subtle malice in Li Ju’s words. She nodded vigorously, exclaiming, “Exactly! And I thought he was my only friend!”

Li Ju murmured, “You have so many friends…”

Confirmed: it’s the male lead.

Today’s sabotage was a success!

But I’m still slightly lower in status.

No matter—I’ll only grow stronger with each battle!

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