The Colorless Shen Mengli

Facing uncontrollable circumstances, Shen Mengli's carefully laid plans became as elusive as the vanishing illusion before her.

"Why... why! Why do so many obstacles appear at every critical moment? Whether it's Xie Yuyan suddenly returning or the illusion disappearing—why must fate twist against me at such pivotal times? Why must heaven toy with me like this? I’ve already lost my family... and now, must I lose the one I love too?"

The moment these words left her lips, it was as if all strength had drained from Shen Mengli’s body. She knelt on the grass, her once-alluring eyes now devoid of light, like a hollow shell stripped of emotion.

Little Feng... does this mean we truly can’t be together?

......

"Haa..."

Perhaps because the heavens knew Ye Feng and Li Mucheng were heading out for a leisurely day, the sun shone unusually warm today. The azure sky, adorned with wisps of white clouds, was a sight that would lift anyone’s spirits.

A gentle breeze brushed against Li Mucheng’s cheeks, the warmth making her narrow her eyes in contentment. She savored this fleeting moment of happiness, letting it ease the tension she felt over Ye Feng’s impending departure the next day. Leaning her head lightly against his shoulder, she murmured,

"Teacher... am I too heavy? If it’s uncomfortable, please tell me right away."

"Of course not. You’re overthinking it, Mucheng."

Ye Feng shook his head reassuringly, his gaze drifting toward the picturesque scenery ahead.

"So beautiful..."

"Yeah. It feels like just looking at something this lovely can lift your mood completely."

"Naturally. Appreciating nature’s beauty is one of life’s greatest joys, Mucheng. Even though we’ve been here before, a view like this never gets old."

"True..."

Li Mucheng nodded in agreement, then shifted her gaze to Ye Feng, who was still admiring the horizon.

"Some things... you’d never tire of seeing."

Mwah.

The next instant, Ye Feng felt the soft press of lips against his cheek. When he turned, he found Li Mucheng biting her own lips slightly, her face tinged with pink as she looked at him.

"Mucheng, you and your little tricks again."

"Hehe, sometimes the mood just calls for it! You’ll forgive me, right, Teacher?"

"Since when did ‘mood’ justify ambushing me like this? What happened to the decorum of the Li family’s young miss?"

"Manners are for outsiders! You’re not an outsider, Teacher, so we can skip the formalities sometimes."

"Hmm... I can’t argue with that. But is that really how you feel?"

"What? Don’t believe me? Then maybe I should give you a proper, heartfelt kiss to prove it—"

"Let’s change the subject, please."

"Hmph... You’re avoiding it, Teacher. But one day, you’ll have to face it."

Li Mucheng pouted, poking Ye Feng’s waist in mock annoyance, though her arms remained tightly wrapped around his.

"Sigh... I know. We’ll cross that bridge when we get there."

Ye Feng clearly didn’t want to dwell on the topic. He wasn’t sure if his choices were right. On the surface, his time with Li Mucheng was pleasant—but it was temporary. Between the system’s tasks and deepening his ties with these girls, his focus was divided.

Sensing his unease, Li Mucheng fell silent, resting her head against him and closing her eyes to savor the tranquility of nature—and the warmth of the one she loved.

Teacher... seems to have a secret. One that’s been troubling him for a long time. Once he’s back from the amusement park, I’ll uncover the truth! Nothing will stand between us.

"Mucheng..."

Just as Li Mucheng basked in the moment, Ye Feng suddenly called her name.

"Yes? I’m here, Teacher~"

She opened her eyes slowly, tightening her grip on his arm as a soft smile graced her lips.

"You can tell me anything. As your devoted student, I’ll help you without hesitation."

"It’s nothing major... I just wanted to say—that day we met, I never meant to kidnap you."

"Eh? T-Teacher, why bring that up now?"

"Because I’ve always felt guilty. What I did dragged you into danger..."

"Oh, Teacher... how many times must I say it?"

Li Mucheng released his arm, kneeling before him instead. Her hands cupped his face, lifting it gently.

"Look at me."

"Mmm..."

Compelled by her touch and voice, Ye Feng met her radiant gaze, his words lodging in his throat.

Mwah~

She pecked his lips lightly before pulling back with a satisfied grin.

"I don’t care about danger or ulterior motives. All I want is for you to stay safe by my side. I’d give up everything I have—except you."

"Mucheng, you..."

"Because you’re the most important person in my heart. The one I can’t replace. The one... I love."

As she spoke, Li Mucheng noticed Ye Feng’s expression soften. Seizing the moment, she leaned in again, stopping just shy of his lips. His rough breath tickled her skin as she whispered, her voice laced with allure,

"On such a perfect day... won’t you take the lead for once, Teacher? For a brighter future?"

"Hah..."

Gulp.

Ye Feng’s throat moved as the world around them seemed to freeze. Staring at her plush, rosy lips, he slid a hand around her waist, tilting his head—

Ring!

A shrill chime erupted from Li Mucheng’s pocket.