TPLTMOE – Chapter 65

The cigarette burned down to his fingertips before Jiang Zhiyu finally stubbed it out. He called his secretary in and had her brief him on the progress of Ling Ran’s team.

The secretary dutifully recounted everything she had heard from Ning Xinqiao, as well as the information she had discreetly gathered from various sources within Jiangzhou.

"Although Mr. Ling has only been with the company for a few months, his capabilities as a team leader and his professionalism are undeniable. The episodes he hosted have consistently achieved exceptionally high ratings, and the audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive. His Weibo following is growing even faster than some of the artists in the entertainment department. The company is already considering assigning him a dedicated agent to handle cross-platform operations."

Jiang Zhiyu instructed his team to fully support the broadcast of Ling Ran's show and then asked the secretary to pull up Ling Ran's Weibo page.

Ling Ran rarely managed his social media accounts. His homepage had only a few promotional posts so far, the latest being a selfie that appeared to have been taken in the backstage lounge of the studio.

The freshly made-up Omega had fair, soft cheeks and lips that were a deep red, glistening with a honeyed sheen. He held a cup of cocoa and took a photo in front of the mirror, his beautiful peach-blossom eyes curved into crescent moons, brimming with laughter.

[Here, have a drink (cup)(cup)]

The comments section had over twenty thousand replies. Aside from the first comment calling him "wife," the rest were a chaotic mix of thirsty admirers, unrestrained behind the anonymity of the internet.

[Don't want coffee, want wife's saliva and dedication]

[The wife of all wives, the Rolls-Royce of wives, my wife whom I've never met, the wife who was born to be my wife!!!]

[Wife, don't go on the show, come on me instead]

[Is this just for me, or do all the sisters here get a sip?]

[Wife, why are your lips so red? Did I kiss you too hard last night? Sob, sorry, tonight I'll let you kiss me back.]

[I told you not to show your face in public! Remember, you're still a baby!]

[Sweetheart, you look even prettier today. Unless I'm mistaken, is that on your neck a mosquito bite or a hickey? Don't tell me there's a man?! Nooo, no other man gets to taste my baby!]

[Baby, let me stir-fry your little snow, hehehe]

[...]

The secretary standing beside Jiang Zhiyu, watching him scroll through the comments one by one: "..."

Secretary: "Mr. Jiang, should I report on something else instead?"

Please stop reading!

His slender fingers swiped down an unknown number of times before finally returning to the top. He tapped open the photo again, gave it a long look, and casually saved it.

Secretary: "."

"No need," Jiang Zhiyu put away his phone and looked up. "You may leave."

***

After returning home, Ling Ran lay alone on the large bed in the master bedroom. Though exhausted and sleepy, he tossed and turned, unable to drift off.

Without the embrace of a strong, warm presence, he felt as though something was missing.

He buried his head under the covers, fingers slowly tracing his lips.

That light, tender kiss in the office today—slow, wet, yet saturated with a turbulent undercurrent of desire.

Ling Ran's body was extremely sensitive. That kiss had already left him trembling and utterly lost in the moment, so when Mr. Jiang forcibly stopped out of respect for his wishes, he couldn't help but feel an empty disappointment in his heart.

Ling Ran lightly smacked his own forehead. "What am I even thinking about...?"

He was supposed to be negotiating terms, yet somehow ended up being seduced by beauty instead.

Mr. Jiang was undoubtedly beautiful—handsome and striking features, an overwhelming aura of masculine hormones, yet with those narrow, coldly exquisite eyes that easily gave off a passionate vibe.

Ling Ran felt he must have been bewitched. Otherwise, why was it that every time Mr. Jiang leaned in to kiss him, even before anything happened, his body would gradually open up, perfectly ready to accept whatever was coming?

The more he thought about it, the hotter his ears burned.

He touched the back of his neck. After changing the scent patch, it was calm and dry, with no signs of going into heat.

So why was his heart now completely filled with thoughts of Mr. Jiang?

Lost in thought, Ling Ran drifted off to sleep.

He didn't know how long he slept, but he had a wonderful dream.

In the dream, someone pulled him into an embrace—the warm hug he'd been longing for.

His chin was gently lifted, and he shared a long, wet kiss with the beauty in his dream.

Ling Ran felt as if he were floating in warm, gentle seawater, with small fish and jellyfish drifting past him occasionally. His body swayed with the waves, the pleasure making his scalp tingle. His legs kicked slightly under the blanket, as if trying to stretch out and cling to something.

But the thin blanket wrapped tightly around him, leaving him unable to move.

Finally, someone caressed his cheek and pressed another wet kiss there.

Bleary-eyed, Ling Ran opened his eyes to complete darkness, with only a faint shadow before him. Even though he couldn't see clearly, he could sense it was Mr. Jiang.

Thinking the enigma needed his comfort again, Ling Ran parted his lips slightly, tilting his face up to offer another sweet, fragrant kiss. Still half-asleep, he acted purely on reflex, completely unaware he was playing with fire on the edge of a knife.

Jiang Zhiyu brushed a light kiss on his lips but didn't deepen it, instead tucking Ling Ran's face against his chest and pressing the back of his head beneath his chin.

"Alright, go back to sleep."

The little Omega didn't regain full consciousness, closing his eyes and drifting off again. His hands clutched a tiny handful of the enigma's shirt through the blanket, and most of his small face was buried in the covers.

Subconsciously, he stretched his neck slightly, his lips peeking out from the blanket to press against the thin fabric of the enigma's sleep shirt. Through the smooth, cool material, his soft lips pressed a slow, tender kiss.

Mistaking it for the enigma's lips, he had earnestly wanted to offer a soothing kiss.

The fabric was instantly dampened, the warmth seeping into the enigma's tense body. In the darkness, Jiang Zhiyu's brow twitched violently.

***

When Ling Ran woke up in the morning, Mr. Jiang was nowhere to be seen. After asking Song Yi, he learned that he had an important meeting early that morning and had already left for work.

Ling Ran thought back—he didn't know what time Mr. Jiang had returned last night, nor when he had left this morning.

They hadn't done anything.

After a full night's rest, Ling Ran felt refreshed and full of energy. He had breakfast before heading to work. Since his car was still with Qin Chengyue, Qin came downstairs specifically to pick him up, and they went to the company together.

Ling Ran first went to the hospital with Xiaofeng, and the interview went smoothly. After returning to the office, the team consolidated their findings and finalized the news report before presenting it to Ning Xinqiao for approval.

Initially, Ning Xinqiao had faced significant pressure when assigning this topic to them. Many senior executives in the company opposed broadcasting such content, and even General Manager Jiang had made it clear that Ling Ran shouldn't be the one handling it.

However, the four young members of Ling Ran's team were so persistent that Ning Xinqiao couldn't bring himself to crush their enthusiasm and confidence. In the end, he agreed to let them proceed. To his surprise, these kids actually managed to produce the segment—and did an outstanding job at that.

Given the sensitive nature of the topic, Ning Xinqiao had Ling Ran conduct a trial broadcast. The script, entirely written by Ling Ran himself, flowed smoothly and naturally as he delivered it.

Ning Xinqiao also noticed that certain phrases in today's script were particularly sharp and incisive, a departure from Ling Ran's usual gentle yet subtly pointed style. After Ling Ran stepped down from the trial broadcast, Ning Xinqiao first applauded the four of them before asking, "Did you write this entire script yourself?"

Ling Ran nodded nervously. "Yes. Is there anything that still needs adjusting?"

Ning Xinqiao's gaze lingered on the latter half of the script, which criticized Dong Hui. "No, it's not that. It's just that the second half doesn't quite sound like your writing. It feels more like..."

He glanced at the other three but didn't finish his sentence.

Ling Ran immediately understood. The past two days had been so hectic that he'd nearly forgotten—the latter part of the script wasn't his work. It had been written for him by Mr. Jiang that night.

Oh no... Did the boss really figure it out?

Ning Xinqiao had indeed noticed. Jiang Zhiyu had represented the Jiang Group in public speeches and media interviews in the past, though those were from earlier years. Back then, he had always written his own speeches, never delegating the task to others.

Since Ning Xinqiao had once studied various public figures' speeches and interviews—including those of his own CEO—he was quite familiar with Jiang Zhiyu's distinctive style.

The latter half of Ling Ran's script was unmistakably Jiang Zhiyu's work.

Though Ning Xinqiao's expression remained neutral, inwardly, he couldn't help but sigh.

He had assumed Jiang Zhiyu's fondness for Ling Ran was fleeting and superficial. Yet not only was it growing more intense, but now Jiang was even personally drafting scripts for him. Would it reach a point where Ling Ran didn't have to lift a finger—just sit prettily in front of the camera while Jiang Zhiyu handled everything behind the scenes?

It was downright terrifying.

Qin Chengyue, still clueless, leaned in to examine the script. "Like what? What's the riddle here? I want in on it too."

Ning Xinqiao pushed his overly curious head away. "Nothing concerns you."

Qin Chengyue huffed indignantly. "Fine, fine. Nothing's my business. I'm leaving."

He actually turned to walk away, but Ling Ran quickly grabbed his arm. "Chengyue, you can't go. You're the backbone of our team. Without you, we're doomed."

Qin Chengyue protested loudly, "Fine, Xiaoran, I'm giving you face here. Even a loser has their temper. I've put in a lot of effort these past few days too, how come it's suddenly not my business anymore..."

Ning Xinqiao seemed to realize his earlier words had been too harsh and said to Qin Chengyue, "You're right, this does involve you. Go over the script carefully—you'll be co-hosting this episode with Ling Ran."

Qin Chengyue was stunned, pointing at his own nose. "Me too? That's not necessary. Just having Xiaoran confirmed is enough. Shouldn't we pair him with an experienced host like our show's tradition?"

Ning Xinqiao replied, "I think the two of you will do fine. You hosted well last episode and could use the experience working with Ling Ran. Besides, this topic was your team's initiative—nobody knows it better than you."

Ling Ran was overjoyed and encouraged Qin Chengyue, "That's perfect! Chengyue, I have faith in you and our recording. Let's do this together!"

Though still unsure, Qin Chengyue nodded firmly under Ling Ran's hopeful gaze. "Alright, together then."

Watching their excitement, Ning Xinqiao caught their enthusiasm and personally guided them through several rehearsals until the workday ended.

Everything was ready—only tomorrow night's live broadcast remained.

After work, Ling Ran didn't leave with Qin Chengyue. Jiang Zhiyu was waiting in the underground garage. Slipping into the car unnoticed, they headed straight for the hospital.

Jiang Zhiyu took him to Xu Guanyi for a full checkup.

Noticing they'd finally come together, Xu Guanyi unloaded all sorts of advice—appropriate or otherwise.

Fortunately, tests showed Ling Ran's hormonal imbalance had significantly improved, with his reproductive cavity developing promisingly—thanks to daily exposure to abundant enigma pheromones. Each heat cycle was effectively mitigated, suggesting full recovery wasn't far off, with gradual cavity development continuing.

Leaving the hospital, Ling Ran's cheeks stayed flushed as he followed Jiang Zhiyu to the car, the warmth lingering.

Before parting, Dr. Xu had emphasized several points... including inquiring about their recent intimacy frequency.

Ling Ran wanted to explain they'd been sleeping together nightly.

But Xu Guanyi clarified, "Not that," prompting Jiang Zhiyu to state, "I proposed twice daily. He declined."

Wide-eyed Ling Ran: "..."

Unintentionally wounded Xu Guanyi: "..."

Xu Guanyi: "Ahem. While beneficial for omega recovery, such details needn't be shared. Just remember protection."

Jiang Zhiyu: "Must we?"

Xu Guanyi: "?"

Xu Guanyi: "Who's the doctor here?"

Jiang Zhiyu: "How long until his cavity fully develops?"

Xu Guanyi: "At least a month conservatively, possibly advancing in 2-3 weeks. The priority remains his imbalance—even post-recovery, relapse risks persist. Daily caution is essential."

Finally, he added, "Oh, and remember not to give him too much of that medicine—one pill at most each time."

Jiang Zhiyu didn't say much else, taking Ling Ran by the hand and turning to leave.

Having heard the entire conversation, Ling Ran's ears were practically steaming as he trotted along behind them.

Once they were in the car, Jiang Zhiyu reached over and touched his ear. "Why is it so hot?"

Ling Ran whimpered, "Mm..."

Their conversation had been way too detailed. If there had been a crack in Dr. Xu's office floor, he would have dived in and never come out.

"Dr. Xu said my condition has improved a lot," Ling Ran murmured. "And your rut period is already over."

Jiang Zhiyu withdrew his hand and leaned back into the seat.

The little Omega's hints had become far too obvious these past couple of days. Suppressing the uncontrollable turbulence in his eyes, Jiang Zhiyu asked in a low voice, "What do you want to say?"

To his surprise, the little Omega hesitated before whispering shyly, "I... I wanted to say thank you."

Jiang Zhiyu paused, clearly not expecting that.

Ling Ran's eyes sparkled like rippling spring water, brimming with timid gratitude as he looked up. His lips parted slightly as he repeated earnestly, "Thank you, Mr. Jiang."

Ling Ran was deeply grateful for everything Jiang Zhiyu had done for him—so much so that it had stirred countless indescribable emotions within him.

No one had ever treated him this well before—understanding all his decisions, supporting every choice, caring for him beyond mere kindness. It was protection, indulgence, endless leniency.

He didn't know whether Jiang Zhiyu truly meant what he said about liking him and wanting to get married, but now... he was seriously considering it.

Considering it with marriage in mind.

Jiang Zhiyu intertwined their fingers, pulling Ling Ran close until his soft body rested against his chest.

"You heard the doctor's instructions today?"

Ling Ran felt his fingers melting under the other's touch and nodded obediently. "I heard."

"Then once a day it is." In the end, the enigma relented.

Ling Ran hadn't expected Jiang Zhiyu to be so accommodating after the appointment—he hadn't even needed to negotiate, and the terms were already settled.

This was something he could reluctantly accept. Even though enigmas lasted forever, at least the frequency was halved. He wouldn't have to drag himself to work with dark circles under his eyes every day.

Just as he was about to agree with a smile, the enigma calmly declared, "Weekends will be two days straight."

Ling Ran's smile froze, quickly morphing into a pout. "Ah... no way..."

He still had to work on Mondays.

Jiang Zhiyu leaned down to kiss him, their lips clinging together like damp heat, inseparable. The scant air between them passed back and forth until it finally escaped through their parted lips.

Jiang Zhiyu nipped at his tongue. "I'll give you Mondays off from now on."

Ling Ran was on the verge of tears, his words muffled. "Th-that's not okay either..."

He didn't want special treatment at the company—it would only cement his reputation as someone who got in through connections.

Jiang Zhiyu had already pulled him into his arms. He hadn't gotten enough kisses last night, had left too early in the morning, and hadn't seen him all day.

Grasping that fair, delicate chin, he commanded, "Tongue."

The soft, tender little tongue obediently slipped out, offering itself to be toyed with.

Ling Ran was left dizzy and dazed from the play, nearly agreeing to the request for a Monday holiday.

Jiang Zhiyu's phone rang at just the right moment.

Still kissing the person in his arms, he reached for the phone and glanced at it sidelong.

He hadn't planned to answer, but seeing the caller ID—Jiang Zhichen—he picked up.

Jiang Zhichen's voice immediately came through the receiver: "Are you free tonight?" Jiang Zhiyu let out a short, hoarse hum from his throat, thick with lingering desire.

"Mhm."

Jiang Zhichen could tell what he was up to but pretended otherwise. "Then come back to the old estate later. There's something urgent at

home."

Jiang Zhiyu finally released those lips, now reddened and damp from his kisses, giving the delicate little bow he adored a teasing lick before lazily asking, "What is it?"

Ling Ran panted heavily, his mind already a foggy haze, as he was pressed by the back of his head against the enigma's chest, gasping for air in small, desperate breaths.

He had improved somewhat compared to before, but he was still no match for Mr. Jiang. Jiang kissed him as if he didn't need to breathe, while Ling Ran was already on the verge of suffocation, relying on the scant oxygen shared between their lips.

Jiang Zhichen replied, "I'm not entirely sure myself. The old man just told me to inform you. I suspect it's related to the second branch—Jiang Zhisong visited the estate today."

Jiang Zhiyu understood immediately. He just hadn't expected the second branch to hold out this long. Only after their family assets had been completely drained did they think to cry injustice before the old man.

Too late.

Jiang Zhiyu stroked the little Omega in his arms like a docile kitten and said, "Fine."

Some accounts were overdue for settling.

He had Zhao Qin drive them back to Yutang Mansion first, escorted Ling Ran upstairs, and made sure he ate dinner before telling him to rest early, mentioning he still had some business to attend to.

Ling Ran stood at the door in his adorable cartoon pajamas, seeing him off and asking when he'd be back, promising to wait for him.

Jiang Zhiyu looked at the little Omega bathed in the warm, dim glow of the lights, stepped forward, and told him not to wait—if he was tired, he should sleep early.

Ling Ran nodded obediently, but in his heart, he quietly resolved to wait anyway.

Jiang Zhiyu didn't call for Zhao Qin, driving himself back to the old estate.

When he stepped into the main hall, he realized not only were the second branch present, but the rest of the family had also gathered. The room was packed, everyone seated in orderly fashion—the elderly elders of the family at the octagonal table, while the others were scattered throughout the hall.

The moment he entered, all eyes locked onto him, sharp and piercing. Those who hated him wished to skewer him through; those who feared him longed for the day he'd fall from grace, crushed underfoot, so the rest could carve up the power monopolized by the main branch.

Seated in the master's carved armchair was the Jiang family patriarch, head of the main branch. Though past seventy, he remained vigorous, his sharp, clouded eyes glaring furiously toward the entrance as he barked, "What could possibly be so important that you'd keep the entire family waiting this long? Have you no respect for propriety or family rules?"

Jiang Zhiyu stood composed and unshakable, his long legs carrying him to a stop beneath the Tang-style colored glass chandelier in the center of the hall. There was an air of arrogant defiance about him, as if he had never regarded anyone with importance.

Yet it was the natural dominance of an enigma, his unrestrained aura radiating outward, crushing all beneath its supreme intimidation. His gaze swept around the room, and the corners of his lips lifted faintly.

Today wasn't about summoning him back for some family banquet—it felt more like a one-sided trial against him.

Jiang Zhiyu had no intention of wasting time with them. His gaze swept over until it landed on Jiang Zhisong and Jiang Ronglian, seated not far from the old patriarch. With a provocative smirk, he locked eyes with them.

"Quite the turnout today. Seems like the only one missing is Jiang Sheng Yi."

The mention of Jiang Sheng Yi was like lighting a fuse. Before Jiang Zhisong could stop her, Jiang Ronglian shot up from her chair, jabbing a finger at Jiang Zhiyu as she unleashed a torrent of curses.

"You dare bring up Sheng Yi?! Wasn't it you who exiled him to that godforsaken village in Switzerland? Jiang Zhiyu, how can you be so heartless?!"

"Sheng Yi is your own nephew! You're nothing but a cold-blooded monster! How could you do this to him?!"

<<Chapter List