The Ji Family's Master and Servant Take Turns on the Stage

Flame City Airport

As the world's central hub, Flame City Airport remained bustling even at night, with crowds of people from various countries and diverse appearances constantly coming and going, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

Near the arrival gate, Su Cheng had been waiting on the seats for quite some time.

Wearing a mask, he sat quietly by himself, waiting for Liu Qingyue's arrival. His sharp black-and-white eyes were fixed intently on the exit, his expression focused and serious.

It seemed as though he was waiting for someone important—or perhaps lost in thought—but regardless, he remained exceptionally still.

Even with the mask on, Su Cheng's demeanor drew frequent glances from passersby. Girls would sneak looks at him, whispering and gossiping, their curiosity about his identity growing by the minute.

However, Su Cheng was long accustomed to such attention and didn't feel the slightest bit uncomfortable.

The only thing that bothered him was when some women approached with their phones, asking for his contact details. He could only politely decline.

But that was unavoidable.

It was something all good-looking people had to endure.

As the old saying goes: If you're not handsome, you'll never know just how forward the opposite sex can be.

Still, life was fair.

What nature didn’t provide, effort could compensate for.

So, those with average looks could always seek out lucky charms to boost their romantic prospects—like expensive car keys or luxury watches.

Time passed slowly, minute by minute, until finally, after a few more moments, he spotted a familiar graceful figure walking toward him.

She still had the same short hair, wearing Bluetooth earbuds, one hand pulling a suitcase while the other rested in the pocket of her thin jacket. A lollipop dangled from her lips as she looked around with an air of casual indifference, yet her gaze was sharp and searching.

Clearly, she was looking for him.

"Senior!"

Su Cheng stood up from his seat, waving before striding forward to meet her.

The moment Liu Qingyue saw him, a faint smile appeared on her face. She raised a hand from her pocket to wave back before dragging her suitcase over to him.

"Sorry to keep you waiting—"

She set down her luggage, crushed the lollipop between her teeth, and flicked the stick perfectly into a nearby trash can. Then, she removed her earbuds and tucked them away, all while smoothing her hair behind her ear in one fluid motion—effortlessly elegant and efficient.

Liu Qingyue was as fresh and radiant as ever, exuding youthful energy. Her bright, lively eyes seemed to see right through him, as if she already knew exactly what he was thinking.

They didn’t embrace, simply standing face-to-face.

They had chosen a secluded corner where no passersby would disturb them.

"I haven’t been waiting long."

Su Cheng, ever considerate, took the suitcase from her and changed the subject. "Want to grab a coffee over there?"

"No, I’ve been sitting long enough today."

Liu Qingyue shook her head, stretching slightly to relieve the stiffness in her neck.

"Then… should I take you straight back to the Ji Family?"

Su Cheng suggested.

It was already late, and since today’s confession opportunity had gone to Ling Ning, he couldn’t exactly take Liu Qingyue home with him, could he?

But the moment he said this, Liu Qingyue’s expression immediately darkened. She puffed up her cheeks unhappily, curling a finger under her chin as she suddenly leaned in, scrutinizing him with probing eyes.

"Something… wrong?"

Su Cheng instinctively leaned back, feeling uneasy under her gaze.

"You rushed me back here, and this is all you have to say?"

Her voice was full of suspicion and accusation.

Su Cheng felt wronged and couldn’t help muttering, "It’s already nighttime. You must be tired from traveling—shouldn’t you rest first? Otherwise, how will you have energy tomorrow?"

Yet Liu Qingyue only grew more displeased, her face puffing up like an angry bun as she pressed further: "Oh? So today’s confession quota is used up, and now I’m useless to you?"

"Come on, out with it—which girl confessed to you today?"

She crossed her arms, one leg—clad in knee-high socks—tapping impatiently as she waited for his explanation.

"Nothing gets past you!"

Su Cheng scratched the back of his head in frustration, sighing before finally admitting the truth: "It was Ling Ning. She confessed today. But don’t tell anyone."

Even if he didn’t say it, Liu Qingyue would find out on her own by tomorrow, so hiding it was pointless.

Hearing this answer, the dissatisfaction on Liu Qingyue’s face instantly vanished, replaced by a flicker of delight. She pondered for a moment before nodding thoughtfully.

"So, you didn’t get what you wanted."

Her tone was matter-of-fact as she gave him a pat on the shoulder, like a wise elder.

"Yeah…"

Su Cheng responded quietly, his cheeks slightly flushed with embarrassment. Since Liu Qingyue already knew why he’d asked her to return, he didn’t know what else to say.

Still, at least she didn’t know the specifics of what he wanted—which was a relief. He was secretly glad because he feared that if he told her, she might refuse or even try to stop him.

So, beforehand, he had prepared a flawless explanation—one that, while crafted, still stemmed from his deepest, most sincere wish.

For example, wanting to completely cure Li Guanqi’s expressionless syndrome.

Thus, he decided to bring it up directly: "Right, I was hoping to get something from you—"

But before he could finish, Liu Qingyue suddenly pressed a finger to her lips, signaling him to be quiet. She glanced around to confirm no familiar faces were nearby before whispering, "If you don’t need it today, then let’s not talk about it now."

"Huh?"

Su Cheng was stunned by her sudden reaction, taking a moment to process before hastily lowering his voice. "But—"

"No buts. We’ll discuss it tomorrow."

Liu Qingyue cut him off, grabbing his arm and pulling him toward the exit while explaining, "We’ve got a rare chance for a private date—let’s not waste it."

"This is just me picking you up. It’s not a date."

Su Cheng followed while dragging the suitcase, unable to resist correcting her misconception.

"That attitude of yours really bothers me. You’re always so happy and cheerful when you’re alone with other girls—why is it different with me? I’m a girl too, you know."

Liu Qingyue stopped in her tracks, frowning at him. "Or… do you not like the beautiful older-sister type?"

"That’s not the point! We’re not in a relationship—how can you call this a date?"

Su Cheng was at a loss for words, unable to hold back his retort: "And stop calling yourself a ‘beautiful older sister’!"

"You’re one to talk."

Liu Qingyue responded with a hint of sourness in her tone, "So, are Li Guanqi and Gu Ruoxue in a romantic relationship with you now?"

Hearing those names, Su Cheng froze momentarily, his expression shifting subtly.

Noticing his reaction, Liu Qingyue blinked and continued, "See? The word 'romantic relationship' has already lost its original meaning when it comes to you. What’s one more, really?"

"Ugh."

Su Cheng sighed helplessly before resigning himself and spreading his hands. "I never expected things to turn out like this. Honestly, I feel like I’m living in constant peril these days—one wrong move and I’m doomed."

"Tch, that’s a bit dramatic, isn’t it?"

"Yes, extremely dramatic."

"Oh…"

Liu Qingyue studied him again, then smiled knowingly. "Alright then, let’s not call it a date."

But under her scrutinizing gaze and that smile, Su Cheng felt as if some hidden secret of his had been unearthed, making him increasingly uncomfortable.

Finally, unable to bear the pressure she exuded, he quickly changed the subject. "Where are you taking me?"

"Back to your place, of course," Liu Qingyue replied matter-of-factly. "You called me back, so naturally, I’ll be staying at your place."

"Uh…"

This time, it was Su Cheng’s turn to be stunned.

If his close friends found out he let Liu Qingyue stay over, all hell would break loose.

Forget that—as a self-proclaimed "Pure Love Warrior," he shouldn’t even be engaging in such scummy behavior!

"No way. If they find out, they’ll kill me. And I’m loyal to them, always."

"Pfft—"

Liu Qingyue scoffed, pursing her lips before coldly snatching his suitcase and dragging it forward. She turned her beautiful face away dismissively, teasing, "Look at you, so timid. You’re an embarrassment to the transmigration community. How boring. I’m going back."

With that, she made a show of pulling out her phone to book a return flight.

"Hey!"

Seeing this, Su Cheng hurried after her, grabbing the hem of her clothes in a panic. "Alright, alright!"

"Hmph~"

Liu Qingyue gave a haughty hum, glancing at him sideways before smiling. "So, you’re agreeing?"

"No!"

Su Cheng refused to be manipulated. He shook his head firmly, pulling out his phone and initiating a video call to Ji Qingyi. With righteous conviction, he declared, "If your lady boss agrees, then fine."

Liu Qingyue’s face fell instantly as she watched the call connect. She swiftly snatched the phone from Su Cheng’s hand and ended the call, glaring at him indignantly. "I didn’t tell her I was coming back today."

"Ohhh, I see."

Su Cheng nodded in realization, then flashed a mischievous smirk, leaning in close to whisper by her ear, "You wouldn’t want Ji Qingyi to find out about this, would you?"

"Well, well, you’ve learned to threaten me now. Quite the improvement, I must say." Liu Qingyue raised an eyebrow, deliberately taunting him.

"You flatter me, senior."

Su Cheng grinned triumphantly, clearly pleased with himself. "But I’m sure someone of your temperament wouldn’t hold a grudge over something so trivial, right?"

"Says who?"

Liu Qingyue suddenly dropped her playful demeanor, her expression turning stern as she spoke in a chilling tone. "You wouldn’t want anyone to know you called me back, would you?"

At those words, Su Cheng’s face paled. He instinctively took a step back, staring at his senior, whose piercing eyes seemed to see right through him. A sly smile played on her lips.

"But… don’t worry."

Liu Qingyue continued leisurely, "Since I’m choosing to stay at your place, no one will find out."

"No, that’s not what I’m worried about…"

Su Cheng looked on the verge of tears.

Before he could finish, Liu Qingyue lifted a hand, poking his cheek while studying his reaction. Her voice dripped with exaggerated disappointment. "Staying at a hotel would be so lonely. I came all this way—of course I want to spend time with my adorable junior."

The close proximity, coupled with her familiar, sweet fragrance, made Su Cheng’s heart race. He gulped. "I can’t betray their trust like this."

Liu Qingyue slowly withdrew her finger, puffing her cheeks in displeasure before sighing dramatically. "You’re impossible. Fine, I’ll just go back. Take care of yourself."

"Wait, wait, hold on!"

Seeing her turn to leave, Su Cheng knew she’d really go if he didn’t relent. He grabbed her sleeve again and steeled himself. "When did you tell Ji Qingyi you’d be back?"

"Tomorrow night in Flame City."

Liu Qingyue thought for a moment before adding, "So, just one night, okay?"

"Fine. But you have to keep this a secret."

Su Cheng sighed like a man resigned to his fate.

"Deal."

In the end, Su Cheng couldn’t resist Liu Qingyue’s persistence and gave in.

Only then did Liu Qingyue allow a satisfied smile to grace her lips. She tugged at his arm. "Let’s go home."

They took the subway back to Su Cheng’s apartment. As soon as they stepped inside, Liu Qingyue eyed the shoe rack and crossed her arms, clicking her tongue in amusement. "Your collection’s grown again."

"Please don’t refer to slippers as a 'collection.'"

Su Cheng rolled his eyes, carrying her suitcase into the living room and setting it beside the sofa. "I’ll get your room ready. Make yourself comfortable."

"Thanks, junior~"

Liu Qingyue nodded lightly, stepping into a pair of slippers that hugged her legs clad in thigh-high socks. She settled onto the sofa, crossing her legs as she glanced around, taking in the surroundings.

Today, she wasn’t wearing a skirt but rather black denim shorts, making her cross-legged pose all the more striking. The stretch of fair, pinkish skin between her shorts and socks—her "absolute territory"—was on full display.

But before she could inspect further, Su Cheng’s phone vibrated with an incoming video call. Liu Qingyue glanced at the screen, where Ji Qingyi’s name flashed, and frowned in annoyance. "How noisy."

With that, she declined the call and tossed the phone carelessly onto the sofa before heading to the bathroom to run a bath.

………………

Meanwhile, on the other end, Ji Qingyi stared at her phone in silence after the call was rejected. Su Cheng had initiated the call first, so she had merely returned it. Yet, to her surprise, he had hung up on her.

"How dare he."

This made her feel irritated. Gnashing her teeth, she snapped angrily, watched for a few minutes, and then directly pressed the replay button.

……………………

After tidying up the room, Su Cheng stepped out only to hear the sound of a video call coming from the sofa. He quickened his pace to the living room, where Liu Qingyue sat cross-legged, sipping her drink with an utterly nonchalant air.

"Senior… your phone is ringing."

He called out tentatively, but Liu Qingyue didn’t even glance at him, continuing to leisurely sip her drink before responding languidly, "No, it’s your phone."

"…………"

Su Cheng’s lips twitched. He then picked up the phone, sat down opposite her, and saw Ji Qingyi’s name on the screen. Not daring to delay, he quickly swiped to answer. "Hello, President, what’s up?"

Yet what greeted him was Ji Qingyi’s icy expression—so cold he felt the phone itself drop in temperature. He shivered before remembering he had accidentally called her earlier.

"Uh… I was just washing up… didn’t notice."

Beads of nervous sweat formed on Su Cheng’s forehead as he answered cautiously. He knew the excuse was flimsy, but it was still better than admitting he’d ignored her call.

"So, who hung up on me just now?"

Ji Qingyi’s gaze instantly turned frigid, her voice laced with a murderous edge that sent chills down his spine.

"What? Hang up on you?"

Su Cheng was baffled. Instinctively, he turned to Liu Qingyue, who still looked completely unbothered, and cursed inwardly, Damn it, you’re stirring trouble again!

"Mhm~"

Liu Qingyue gave him a faint look, then winked mischievously—her message clear: If you rat me out, I’ll expose you too. Let’s see who loses more.

However, Ji Qingyi, observing Su Cheng’s reaction through the video, suddenly narrowed her eyes and demanded coldly, "Who’s there with you?"

Though the video quality wasn’t great, she could still vaguely tell when he was lying.

"No, no one’s home."

At this point, he decided to go all in.

"Turn into a penguin."

Su Cheng chanted inwardly. With a poof, a puff of white smoke rose from his body, and in an instant, the boy on the sofa vanished—replaced by a round, fluffy penguin.

The phone fell mid-air, but in that split second, Ji Qingyi clearly saw the penguin’s form. Surprise flickered across her face, followed by unmistakable fondness.

Liu Qingyue swiftly caught the phone, hung up in one smooth motion, and tossed it onto the sofa.

Then, she eagerly scooped up Penguin Cheng into her arms, nuzzling her cheek against it with sheer delight. She even closed her eyes, murmuring dreamily, "So this is the ‘Heaven-Blessed, Sage-Wise, Martial-Brave, Benevolent, Diligent, Filial, Celestial-Chosen Prince’? So soft and cute~"

"I can’t believe you recited that ridiculously long title in one breath!"

Penguin Cheng stiffened at the sudden embrace, the embarrassing title only adding to his helplessness. It blinked its beady black eyes, flapping its tiny flippers in a futile attempt to fend off the relentless affection.

But he wasn’t surprised Liu Qingyue knew about this. He’d once mentioned his penguin transformation to Ji Qingyi, so it was only natural her attendant would’ve looked into it—including that cringe-worthy title.

Noticing Penguin Cheng’s resistance, Liu Qingyue only hugged it tighter, burying her face into its neck to inhale deeply, savoring Su Cheng’s familiar scent.

"Senior, enough. I need to change back."

After struggling in vain, Penguin Cheng surrendered, hoping she’d let go.

But Liu Qingyue acted as if she hadn’t heard, giving it a few more affectionate rubs before finally releasing it with a grin. "How about letting me cuddle you to sleep tonight?"

Poof!

Su Cheng reverted to human form, collapsing onto the sofa with Liu Qingyue’s lingering perfume still clinging to him. He groaned in despair, "Please stop messing with me."

Beside him, Liu Qingyue’s eyes clearly said, Change back first, then we’ll talk. But Su Cheng pretended not to notice, picking up his phone to reply to Ji Qingyi.

NotAnOrangeFan: Sorry, I might’ve accidentally tapped your chat while in animal form. I’ve set all your contact options as shortcuts, so it’s easy to misclick.

After reading his message, Ji Qingyi’s mood visibly improved, her usual composure returning as she typed a reply.

Ji Qingyi: Understood.

Ji Qingyi: I assume you got what you wanted after causing such a scene this afternoon?

NotAnOrangeFan: Nothing escapes your notice, President.

After sending this, Ji Qingyi rose from her desk and strode gracefully out of the room.

"Young Mistress, what are your orders?"

"Prepare the car. I’m going out."

Without turning, Ji Qingyi issued the command and headed straight for the underground garage.

"At once, Young Mistress."

The maid bowed slightly, then adjusted her earpiece to relay the instructions.

…………………………

"Senior, what are you doing?"

Su Cheng, having just sent his reply, suddenly noticed Liu Qingyue packing her luggage. Overjoyed, he thought she’d finally had a change of heart and decided to check into a hotel.

But her next words plunged him straight into despair.

"Hurry up and change. The Young Mistress is coming."

"Is she planning to stay over?"

"Don’t worry about that."

With that, Liu Qingyue pulled out an air freshener, spritzing it around before dragging her suitcase to the door. "I’ll come back after she leaves. Wait for me~"

Click. The door shut softly, leaving the apartment in silence. Su Cheng stood frozen for a long moment before snapping out of it.

In the next second, he rushed to his room, swapping his Liu Qingyue-scented clothes for loungewear. After straightening up the living room, he dashed to the balcony, pulling back the curtains to peer outside—

Sure enough, a black sedan was approaching in the distance, eventually stopping below his building.

Ji Qingyi stepped out with elegant poise, followed by a middle-aged female attendant carrying a rectangular case wrapped in black cloth. The two entered the building and vanished from sight.

Su Cheng withdrew, smoothing his disheveled hair and clothes before settling on the sofa to wait.

Ding-dong.