Chapter 108: Eyes Only for Each Other

“Mei Ning, maybe we shouldn’t go in after all. We’d just be awkward third wheels,” Xiao Yu tugged Mei Ning’s sleeve and whispered.

The moment Mei Ning recalled the scene she had just glimpsed upon opening the door, she nodded vigorously like a little chick pecking, “You’re right, let’s back off.”

Then, in unison, they said, “Director Lin, we’re going to the restroom.”

“Both of you together? Are you sure?” Lin Zhiwei, walking ahead, looked puzzled.

“No, no, yes, yes,” Mei Ning fumbled, unable to explain clearly, feeling as if she had tangled herself up.

“Go ahead,” Lin Zhiwei waved her hand, deciding not to make things difficult.

The two dashed away like they’d just been pardoned.

When Lin Zhiwei opened the door, the man had just taken off his mask. Through the mirror, his deep, dark eyes sparkled with a mischievous smile—like a poppy flower, dangerously addictive with just one more glance. For a moment, she almost wanted to bolt out, thinking, “Boss, you’re so handsome, you know you’re liable to get swept off your feet, right?”

The man blinked, ignoring his fatigue, wanting to pull her into his embrace. But she pounced on him like a gust of wind, her small head resting against his chest, excitedly saying, “Congratulations, boss, on the overwhelming victory.”

“Thank you,” Ling Ziheng smiled softly, holding this moment of beauty close, pressing his forehead against hers. “You’re congratulating me before the win even happens.”

“Who else’s planner, who else’s man? It’s only a matter of time before we take the crown,” the girl in his arms muttered, displeased. There was no doubt about it.

Hearing “who else’s man,” Ling Ziheng was clearly pleased. Rarely did this girl say something so heartfelt. All the exhaustion of the past month was worth it.

Unbeknownst to anyone, his performance earlier had only eyes and heart for her alone. In truth, he had intended to retire upon returning to China but had accepted this variety show solely because of her boundless enthusiasm.

Lin Zhiwei breathed in the unique magnolia scent from the man’s body, feeling cozy as she rested her head on his chest. “Ah, my man is so handsome, I really want to lock him up so no one else can see.”

Ling Ziheng’s eyes lit up. “As you wish.”

“Uh, no, that won’t do—we’re just getting started.”

“Why not, as long as you want, and I can do it.”

Uh… Boss, you’re too ruthless.

“We’re about to go on stage soon; rest for a bit,” Lin Zhiwei released him, knowing how hard he’d worked. He’d lost so much weight from dieting and training for the performance. Seeing that slender waist made her heart ache.

Ah, no choice. Since meeting this enchanting man, not only had her youthful heart been rekindled, but her motherly side had also come out in full force.

Just as she was about to let go, he pulled her tighter. “No rush.” He sighed softly, as if unable to bear being apart for even a moment. Perhaps it was he who longed most to keep this girl all to himself. “When will everyone know that you and I belong together?”

“Uh, that’s not so easy to arrange,” Lin Zhiwei’s mind raced back to the three different faces she had once worn. “For now, I’m still your Director Lin publicly. The future… I’m not sure if it will be beautiful or ugly. They have many aliases; I have many masks.”

Ling Ziheng couldn’t help but chuckle. Only this girl could think so creatively and complicatedly. Softly, he said, “No matter who you are, it’s you I want.”

“Wait till I turn back into an ugly beast, then see if you still want me,” Lin Zhiwei said dismissively. Just like that cold, twisted Lin Qiongjiu, if their relationship ever soured, he might well turn her ugly in retaliation.

“To me, there’s no difference,” Ling Ziheng said, his eyes shining as he whispered hoarsely in her ear, “Zhiwei, I love you—not because of this moment or the next face you wear, but simply because it’s you.”

Damn… Lin Zhiwei was instantly won over, proudly lifting her chin, a little coquettish. So this was how it felt to have caught a handsome man unknowingly while looking like an ugly beast. Complaining, she teased, “Ling Ziheng, I think you’re turning into a rogue who preys on innocent girls.”

“Heh,” Ling Ziheng laughed quietly. Isn’t that how it’s done—with charm and a bit of guile? Otherwise, how would this girl fall for him so easily?

A knock sounded at the door. “Boss, Director Lin, it’s time to go on,” Mei Ning’s embarrassed voice interrupted the intimate moment. She and Xiao Yu were pacing anxiously outside; the crew had been urging them for a while, yet these two were still dawdling.

“Let’s go,” Lin Zhiwei opened the door, smiling and beckoning the two in. Ling Ziheng didn’t forget to put his mask back on.

“Ling ge, the performance is over; you don’t need the mask anymore,” Mei Ning reminded him.

Xiao Yu immediately caught on to the boss’s intention and kicked him playfully. “Mind your own business and go stand over there.”

Guided by the staff, Ling Ziheng walked toward the stage. The three returned to their seats. Xiao Yu watched Lin Zhiwei’s calm expression carefully, scrutinizing her neck and every inch of skin. There was no sign of anything unusual. Had they not shared a passionate kiss or anything of the sort? The boss was really good at self-control—impressive.

“What are you staring at?” Lin Zhiwei noticed the burning curiosity beside her.

Xiao Yu winked, “The boss hasn’t… you know, done that yet.”

“Come on, kids, can your thoughts be a little purer?” Lin Zhiwei nearly choked. “Your boss can’t possibly be that uncontrollable.”

“Got it, we’ll continue at home. As expected of the boss—always ready, nice!” Xiao Yu nodded resolutely.

Lin Zhiwei gave a deadpan look. Xiao Yu, how wild is your imagination? Sorry, I can’t keep up with you. In your mind, your boss is practically a beast.

“Agreed,” Mei Ning suddenly appeared beside them, wearing a mysterious grin. “I heard people say that those with icy faces tend to have a rather unsatisfied desire in that department. Ling ge, keep it up, I believe in you.”

“Get lost,” Lin Zhiwei couldn’t help but kick him. “What kind of logic is that? Even if he’s unsatisfied, why should I encourage him?”

“Of course you have to encourage him to exercise! With your tiny frame…”

...

“Mei Ning, come here.”

“W-what? Don’t hit me in the face! Ahhh, Ling ge, have mercy! I won’t dare again!”

...