If Jiang Chiyue really hurt her this time she would never let it go. But first she had to stay alive. Jiang Chiye was supposed to be in the army. How had he come back already? Xu Yaoyao could not figure it out, all her memories of him were filled with fear and she slept restlessly the entire night.
The next morning.
Ah!!
Xu Yaoyao woke up screaming soaked in sweat gasping for breath with her eyes wide with terror. She had dreamed Jiang Chiye had shown up at her door to settle scores, making her run five kilometers was not enough he had wanted to… No! She could not stay here anymore.
She jumped out of bed, quickly packed her things, grabbed her pre-packed luggage and walked out. Li Lifen was eating breakfast seeing her daughter hauling bags out her mouth twitched.
And where do you think you are going?
Mom, I am heading to the countryside early to get used to things. Do not try to stop me.
Xu Yaoyao swung open the front door only to find him standing right there watching her with a knowing half smile. Her vision swam and she slammed the door shut instinctively.
Bang
She pressed her back against it breathing hard dropping her bags to the floor.
Xu Yaoyao have you seen a ghost? her mother said exasperated.
I might as well have Yaoyao thought. He is far worse than any ghost.
Move aside her mother said stepping toward her.
Yaoyao clung to the doorknob shaking her head. No! If you want to open that door you will have to step over me.
Her mother’s curiosity grew. I am counting to three one… two…
Defeated Yaoyao inched aside head bowed eyes darting heart pounding. Her mother opened the door and blinked in surprise.
Well! It is you? Chiye you are back?
Hello Auntie. Jiang Chiye spoke politely but his gaze stayed fixed on Yaoyao warm and amused. The little girl had grown into a beautiful young woman graceful lovely. His eyes drifted downward and his gaze darkened the tips of his ears turned warm.
Yaoyao felt his intense stare and glared back. What are you looking at? It is not like you have not seen before!
His smile deepened his Adam’s apple bobbed and his grip tightened on what he was carrying. Her mother oblivious welcomed him warmly.
Chiye come in come in! You should not have brought anything! She took the gifts from him then noticed Yaoyao standing frozen. What are you standing there for? Say hello!
Taking a deep breath Yaoyao lifted her chin and forced a smile. Hello Brother Jiang.
Jiang Chiye’s eyes darkened. He gritted his teeth Brother Jiang? Once she had followed him around calling him Chiye Gege with delight. Now she was calling him Brother Jiang? He did not want to be her brother!
They sat down inside and her mother asked Chiye is there something you need?
He glanced at Yaoyao who looked ready to bolt at any moment and spoke casually. Is Yaoyao leaving with luggage? Where is she going?
She flinched and shot him a glare he knew perfectly well! She was trying to get away from him! But she dared not say so.
Her mother stepped in. She is going to the countryside in a few days so she is heading early to settle in.
He knew better she was not settling in early she was running from him. Auntie I heard you are arranging blind dates for her. What about me?
Her mother froze setting down her cup. She studied him his features were striking deep eyes a strong straight nose firm jawline broad shoulders solid build. They made a handsome pair he had grown up right next door she knew his family well.
Chiye are you serious?
He stood up and gave her a crisp salute. Auntie I promise you I mean every word. I want to marry Yaoyao. I will cherish and love her for the rest of my life. This is not impulsive. It is something I have planned for a long time.
Good her mother said firmly. Then I approve. Go talk to your family if they agree you two can get your marriage license tomorrow.
Thank you Auntie! I will go tell them right now and come back this afternoon. He beamed looking younger and softer.
Yaoyao felt dizzy. Her future had been decided without anyone even asking her.
Mom! I am right here!
Her mother ignored her turning back to him. Chiye what is your rank now? Can she move with you? How long are you home?
I am a regimental commander now. My rank should get us a nice house. I have ten days’ leave four days travel each way so six days here.
Her mother nodding thoroughly satisfied. Go speak with your family. We will all have dinner together tonight.
I will Auntie. See you tonight. He turned to leave his gaze locking on Yaoyao certain determined. See you tonight Yaoyao.
She met his burning gaze her cheeks flushing hands twisting together. He looks even better than before tall strong… I have felt those muscles too. Wait do not get distracted! He is handsome yes but he is also strict and demanding! The thought of endless five kilometer runs and squats made her head spin.
I will not marry you! she whispered.
He did not get angry just smiled his voice low and husky. Yaoyao have you forgotten yesterday… mmph—
She clapped both hands over his mouth terrified he would say something embarrassing. Shut up! Do not you dare!
He blinked then laughed soft warm vibrations against her palms. She pulled her hands away quickly stepping back heart racing.
Her mother watched pleased by the affection and possessiveness in his eyes. Alright Chiye go on home now.
Goodbye Auntie. See you tonight. He gave one last lingering look at Yaoyao and left.
Yaoyao turned to her mother indignant. Mom! How could you say yes? I will not agree I am leaving for the countryside anyway!
Smack
Her mother gave her a firm swat on the backside. Are you out of your mind?