TPLTMOE – Chapter 90

Chapter 90: Extra 7 – Raising Pups (3) 

Jiang Zhiyu had just entered his office when the reception desk downstairs called the executive office. The receptionist reported to the secretary that a lost child had shown up, claiming his surname was Jiang and declaring he'd come to work, asking what should be done.

After hearing the description of the child's appearance, the secretary nearly had a heart attack. She hurriedly called Zhao Qin to rush downstairs and verify.

Sure enough, sitting in the first-floor lobby was a little toddler wearing a bear hat, dressed neatly with full gear, munching on a cream cake that left colorful smears all over his tiny face.

It was none other than their esteemed young master.

Jiang Yunyun had rarely visited the company, and when he did, he took the private elevator straight upstairs. Jiang Zhiyu and Ling Ran had protected him well—he'd never been exposed to the media, so even company employees didn't know what he looked like.

Zhao Qin immediately scooped the toddler into his arms, wiping the cream off his face while asking in shock, "Young master, how... how did you get here?"

Jiang Yunyun swallowed his cake, eyes sparkling: "Uncle Zhao! I came to work!"

The receptionists eyed them suspiciously. They'd already thought the child looked somewhat familiar, but now the resemblance to their CEO Jiang seemed uncanny.

With people coming and going in the lobby, Zhao Qin and the secretary quickly took Jiang Yunyun upstairs via elevator.

But they hesitated outside the CEO's office—disturbing him now would be suicidal, but leaving the young master waiting was equally dangerous.

Having been to Jiang Zhiyu's office before, Jiang Yunyun waved at Zhao Qin and the secretary, ready to enter with his backpack.

Zhao Qin hastily pulled him back: "Young master, kindergarten shouldn't be out yet, right? Should uncle take you back to school first?"

Jiang Yunyun's face fell: "No! I don't want to go to school."

The secretary asked, "Then what would young master like to do?"

With utmost seriousness, Jiang Yunyun declared: "I want to work and earn money to support the family."

No one knew where he'd picked up this phrase, but coming from a toddler barely reaching adult knees, it was utterly adorable.

After discussion, Zhao Qin and the secretary settled Jiang Yunyun in a nearby meeting room with snacks and drinks, letting him wait quietly inside.

At 3 PM, Jiang Zhiyu had a meeting scheduled—they'd figure out what to do with him then.

Munching on cake, Jiang Yunyun even asked the secretary for paper and pen, diligently drawing something at the table.

Around 2:50 PM, Jiang Zhiyu emerged from his office adjusting his tie, his stern expression clearly indicating unfinished business.

Turning his head, he spotted a small figure through the meeting room's glass door.

The secretary rushed to explain. Frowning slightly, Jiang Zhiyu strode toward the meeting room.

Too absorbed in his "work," Jiang Yunyun didn't notice the approaching figure until a hand lifted him by the collar from his chair. Waving his paper, he was about to yell when a hand covered his mouth.

Jiang Zhiyu adjusted his hold: "Your dad's sleeping inside. No shouting."

Jiang Yunyun blinked his big eyes and nodded repeatedly. Only then did Jiang Zhiyu release him, carrying him as they turned back toward the office. He instructed his secretary to postpone the upcoming meeting by ten minutes before closing the office door.

Yunyun didn't see Ling Ran in the office, but nestled in Jiang Zhiyu's arms, he caught a faint, unusual scent—something like lingering alcohol, yet also sweet, like grapes.

Jiang Zhiyu set him down on the sofa and looked down at him with a stern gaze.

Yunyun sensed this was the precursor to an enigma's anger. With no Papa here to plead for him, it was better to admit his mistake early.

Before Jiang Zhiyu could speak, Yunyun stood up from the sofa on his own, his little head hanging low, voice soft.

"Daddy, I know I was wrong..."

Jiang Zhiyu sat beside him. "What exactly were you wrong about?"

Yunyun obediently confessed his crimes: "I shouldn't have skipped kindergarten, and I shouldn't have sneaked out to find you and Papa. I—I really know it was wrong..."

As he spoke, his eyes began to redden, his chubby cheeks trembling slightly from holding back tears. He looked utterly pitiful.

Jiang Zhiyu reached out, brushing a thumb over the corner of Yunyun's eye, his tone softening slightly. "You came all the way from kindergarten to the company by yourself?"

Yunyun nodded. "Yes."

"It's not exactly close. How did you get here?"

So Yunyun recounted his arduous journey—how he had wandered all the way from kindergarten, overcoming countless hardships before finally reaching the corporate building. Jiang Zhiyu listened patiently, but in summary, it boiled down to one thing: he had relied entirely on his charm.

Blessed with an adorable face and well-behaved demeanor, Yunyun had barely stepped out of the kindergarten gates when he encountered a kind-hearted older sister. He told her he wanted to go to Jiang Corporation to find Daddy, and she happily gave him a ride on her electric scooter across the river bridge, dropping him off at the building's entrance. Along the way, she even bought him a few small cakes to snack on.

Overjoyed, Yunyun had called after her with several sweet "Big Sister!"s, prompting her to relent and stuff his backpack full of extra snacks.

"They're all in here," Yunyun said, unzipping his backpack. "I didn't eat any of them—I wanted to share them with you and Papa!"

Indeed, the tiny backpack was crammed with colorful snack wrappers. Yunyun's face beamed with pride, his little chest puffed out as he awaited the enigma's praise.

Not only had he found his way to the company all by himself, but he'd also brought so many delicious treats. Surely Daddy would shower him with compliments now.

The thought made Yunyun giggle.

But Jiang Zhiyu's gaze remained stern. He moved the overstuffed backpack aside and asked, "What did Daddy tell you before? Do you remember?"

Yunyun's smile faded. He pouted, thinking hard, but eventually shook his head.

Jiang Zhiyu knew he had long forgotten. "Did you know that sister?"

Yunyun nodded eagerly—of course he knew her! She was the one who bought him cakes.

Jiang Zhiyu's voice turned firm. "Think carefully before you answer."

Jiang Yunyun had to think carefully again and said that it didn't seem quite right to say they were acquainted. He had never seen that sister before—today was their first meeting—and he didn't even know her name. Daddy had taught him that people he hadn't met and whose names he didn't know should be called strangers.

Jiang Yunyun shook his head again.

Jiang Zhiyu asked, "What should you do when you meet a stranger?"

Jiang Yunyun obediently replied, "Don't talk to strangers, don't eat anything they give you, and definitely don't go anywhere with them..."

Jiang Zhiyu crossed his arms and looked at him. "Did you do any of that?"

Jiang Yunyun hung his head and shook it. Not only had he failed, but he had managed to make every mistake possible.

"Daddy, I really know I was wrong. I won't ever do it again..."

As he spoke, he cautiously inched closer to the enigma's leg and finally clung to his thigh. "I won't talk to strangers again, and I won't eat the little cakes they buy for me, wuwu..."

He seemed genuinely frightened now. After all, Jiang Zhiyu had often shown him news reports about child traffickers selling kids to Africa. He had forgotten for a moment today, but now it all came rushing back. Clutching Jiang Zhiyu's leg, he cried so hard that tears and snot covered his face.

"Wuwu... I-I don't want to be sold to Africa... I don't want to be separated from Daddy and Papa..."

His suit pants were already soaked with tears. Jiang Zhiyu sighed and lifted the little boy onto his lap, wiping his face.

"Alright, enough. You're just like your Papa—so many tears."

Jiang Yunyun was still caught up in the grief of possibly being separated from his parents. Jiang Zhiyu pinched the chubby softness of his cheeks. "As long as you don't skip school or sneak out without permission again, you won't be in danger. But if you dare do it again, forget the traffickers—I'll sell you myself first. Understood?"

Jiang Yunyun nodded vigorously. "Understood!"

Jiang Zhiyu asked, "How will you prove it?"

Jiang Yunyun stopped crying, put on a serious little face, and hooked his tiny, soft finger around Jiang Zhiyu's hand. "We pinky swear—no lies, no take-backs."

Only then did Jiang Zhiyu pat his little head. "Good boy."

It was already past three in the afternoon, and sending him back now wouldn't make much sense. Besides, the fact that a three-year-old had been able to run off on his own pointed to bigger problems at the kindergarten.

Jiang Zhiyu immediately arranged for Jiang Yunyun's transfer and made sure the kindergarten would be held accountable.

It was about time—the guest he was supposed to meet had probably been waiting for a while.

Jiang Zhiyu set the little boy back on the sofa and noticed he was clutching a piece of paper tightly. He pulled it over to take a look. The paper was covered in scribbles that looked like some kind of mystical symbols.

Jiang Yunyun looked nervous, stretching out his short little arms to try and snatch it back. Jiang Zhiyu held it up and studied it carefully, finally recognizing the crookedly written characters as his own name.

"What's this?"

Jiang Yunyun declared, "It's my work!"

He was terrified Daddy might mistake it for trash and throw it away—he had spent a long time drawing it.

Fortunately, even though Jiang Zhiyu didn't understand, he respected it.

The secretary had brought him a brand-new notebook to doodle in, and the small cakes ordered from the nearest café had just arrived.

Before leaving, Jiang Zhiyu instructed him, "Wait here quietly for me to come back. No shouting, and no going into the inner lounge, understand?"

With his mouth stuffed full of cream cake, Jiang Yunyun had no energy left to yell. Munching away, he buried himself in his "work" and mumbled in response, "Got it, Daddy. You go do your work too."

After Jiang Zhiyu left, Jiang Yunyun behaved very well, kneeling earnestly at the coffee table in front of the sofa, deeply engrossed in his task.

After working for a while, he felt a bit tired and played quietly in the office without making any noise.

Once he was done playing, he grabbed his little notebook and pen and carried them over to the large desk. He even made a few trips back to bring over his plates of cakes before struggling to climb onto the tall office chair.

After several attempts, he finally managed to settle into the seat, though he was so short that only half his head peeked over the desk.

After some serious thought, he simply climbed onto the desk and sprawled out. Luckily, the desk was big enough for him to roll around on.

He had seen Daddy working at this desk, so he figured he should work here too. Stuffing another cake into his mouth, he lowered his head and continued his "work."

Ling Ran didn't know how long he had slept, but when he woke up, the room was still dim.

Getting out of bed, his legs trembled slightly. Even though they had only done it once, the enigma's roughness had taken a toll on his body.

He remembered the sheets being soaked, but now he felt clean and dry—someone must have cleaned him up.

He shuffled over to the bay window and pulled open the heavy curtains. Sunlight poured in, but it was still early—not yet time for kindergarten to let out.

Ling Ran spotted the damp, crumpled sheets piled on the windowsill. His gaze burned, and he quickly gathered them up, balled them into a mess, and tossed them into the bathroom trash.

The scent in the lounge was still unmistakable. Ling Ran sprayed half a bottle of air freshener and opened the windows to air it out before straightening his clothes and stepping out.

But the moment he opened the door, he froze.

A small figure was sprawled across the desk, seemingly fast asleep with his head resting on his arms.

Ling Ran checked the time again—kindergarten definitely wasn't over yet. How had his son ended up here? He walked over and saw the half-eaten cakes and a notebook full of scribbles beside the sleeping child.

Jiang Yunyun was deep in slumber, his face smeared with cream, drool nearly dripping onto the desk.

Ling Ran gently picked him up, intending to carry him into the lounge, but after a moment's thought, he placed him on the sofa instead. Kneeling beside it, he carefully wiped the boy's face with a wet wipe.

Slowly, Jiang Yunyun stirred awake, blinking sleepily before calling out in a sweet, childish voice, "Papa!"

Ling Ran stroked his hair. "Had a good nap?"

As if he hadn't seen him in ages, Jiang Yunyun scrambled up from the sofa and threw himself into Ling Ran's arms, clinging tightly to his neck and nuzzling against him like an affectionate puppy.

"Papa, Papa, I missed you so much."

Ling Ran hugged him and asked with a smile, "What's wrong? Did kindergarten let out early today? Who picked you up? Daddy?"

Jiang Yunyun didn't want Ling Ran to know he had skipped school, so he buried himself in Ling Ran's arms and stayed silent. But Ling Ran immediately sensed his unease.

"Yunyun," Ling Ran looked at him, "is there something you want to tell Papa?"

Jiang Yunyun shakes his head. "N-no."

Ling Ran pressed, "Really?"

Jiang Yunyun's confidence faltered, and he burst into tears. "Y-yes... Waaah..."

He confessed everything, though some parts were disjointed. Still, Ling Ran understood completely.

Finally, wiping his tears, Ling Ran soothed him softly, "Alright, alright, sweetheart, don't cry. You just wanted to help Daddy and Papa with work, right?"

Jiang Yunyun nodded vigorously, flinging tears from his chubby cheeks. Eager to prove himself, he grabbed his scribbled notebook and showed it to Ling Ran.

"Th-this is all the work I did today."

Ling Ran was puzzled but humored him, flipping through a few pages without comprehension.

"Yunyun, can you tell Papa what these drawings are?"

Pointing at the notebook with his chubby little hand—its back dotted with four tiny dimples―Jiang Yunyun explained seriously, "Daddy draws like this. I helped Daddy finish all of these to give to the secretary."

Ling Ran nearly laughed when he realized the boy had been mimicking Jiang Zhiyu's signatures on documents, which were indeed handed to the secretary afterward.

Seeing Jiang Yunyun's earnest expression, Ling Ran played along. "Wow, did you draw all these by yourself?"

Jiang Yunyun patted his chest proudly. "All by myself! I used this pen and just kept drawing and drawing... Then I got sleepy, so I thought I'd take a nap and draw more later."

Ling Ran held the notebook gently. "Why did you want to help Daddy with this?"

Jiang Yunyun answered, "If I draw more, Daddy won't have to draw as much. Then he can come home sooner and play with us!"

Just then, the office door swung open, and Jiang Zhiyu strode in.

Spotting the enigma, Jiang Yunyun immediately burrowed into the omega's arms like an ostrich, wishing he could crawl back into his belly.

But Jiang Zhiyu, tall and long-legged, crossed the room in a few strides and plucked the clinging toddler off Ling Ran, holding him effortlessly in one arm.

He glanced at Ling Ran. "Feeling rested?"

With the child present, Ling Ran's mind flashed to something, and he shot Jiang Zhiyu a light glare, his ears faintly pink. "Don't ask that."

Jiang Zhiyu smirked. "Fine, I'll ask tonight."

Jiang Yunyun squirmed to get down, only to receive a light swat on the bottom.

"Did you apologize?"

Ling Ran interjected, "He did—and even tried to make up for it."

He handed the notebook to Jiang Zhiyu, whose brow twitched. "You practiced all afternoon, and it's still this messy?"

Tears welled up instantly in Jiang Yunyun's eyes as he stared pitifully at the enigma. "Daddy..."

Jiang Zhiyu softened his tone. "But there's improvement."

Jiang Yunyun sniffled. "You have to give this to the secretary..."

Jiang Zhiyu nodded. "Alright."

The three of them indeed took the scribbled notebook when leaving the office. Passing by the secretary, Jiang Yunyun personally handed it over.

"Secretary sister, I've drawn a lot already. Is it enough?"

The secretary replied, "It's enough, young master."

Jiang Yunyun broke into a wide grin. "That's great! Does that mean Daddy can come home earlier from now on?"

The secretary glanced up at Jiang Zhiyu, who gave a slight nod, and then smiled. "Of course he can."

***

Jiang Yunyun switched to a new kindergarten and, after a year, moved up to the middle class. Though younger than his classmates, he was taller than all of them.

After a year of school, he had clearly grown a lot, and his temperament had become much steadier. He rarely cried anymore.

The last time he cried was when he learned that Ling Ran was going on a business trip—one that would last ten whole days.

Being separated from his Omega for so long was an immense challenge for him. From the moment Ling Ran started packing, his eyes turned red. He lingered by the bedroom door, watching, and when Ling Ran wasn't paying attention, he dashed over and climbed into the suitcase, covering himself with a few pieces of clothing, convinced he was perfectly hidden.

Ling Ran turned around and saw a small mound bulging in the suitcase, with two little bear slippers scattered beside it.

At least he was polite enough to take off his shoes.

Pretending not to notice, Ling Ran continued packing, feigning surprise. "Huh? The suitcase is already full? Guess I can't take this one—I'll have to switch to a bigger one."

As soon as he said that, Jiang Yunyun, still hiding inside, quickly pushed the clothes aside and jumped out.

"Me too! Don't forget to pack me!"

Ling Ran chuckled. "Are you my luggage too?"

Jiang Yunyun ran over and hugged his leg. "Yes, yes! Can't Papa take me along?"

Ling Ran ruffled the back of his head. "I'll only be gone for ten days. Be good and listen to Daddy at home, okay? I'll bring you lots of yummy treats when I come back."

"I don't want treats," Jiang Yunyun said, his voice trembling. "I want Papa..."

In the end, Ling Ran had to pick him up and let Song Yi finish packing for him.

On the way to the airport, Jiang Yunyun clung to Ling Ran like a koala, refusing to let go, which made Jiang Zhiyu, sitting beside them, a little jealous.

He hadn't even gotten to hold his own wife yet—this brat was hogging all the affection.

Ling Ran was heading to London for business, meeting directly with BTC headquarters as a director. His career had skyrocketed, but his competence was undeniable, leaving no room for gossip.

Over the past year, Jiang Zhiyu had shifted his focus toward family, while Ling Ran had become increasingly career-driven. Though Ling Ran was confident leaving the big and little ones at home for ten days, Jiang Zhiyu wasn't so sure.

He still hadn't forgotten the incident with that white Alpha. Who knew if Ling Ran would attract more unwanted attention this time? Without him there to keep watch, those Alphas would surely be eyeing his beautiful, charming wife.

Just the thought of it made Jiang Zhiyu's skin crawl. He even considered sending the little rascal back to the old house and accompanying Ling Ran abroad himself.

But it was just a thought—Ling Ran would never agree.

So the two of them—one tall, one short—could only stand at the security checkpoint, watching helplessly as Omega's figure disappeared from view.

On the way home, Jiang Yunyun was visibly fuming, clearly filled with anger toward the enigma.

Coincidentally, Jiang Zhiyu wasn't in the best mood either, when Jiang Yunyun pouted and glanced at him for what felt like the hundredth time, Jiang Zhiyu reached over and pinched the back of his neck.

"What are you looking at?"

Jiang Yunyun flailed and struggled, but being held by the neck like a chick, his strength was no match for an enigma.

"Papa left, and he won't even think about us!"

Jiang Zhiyu countered, "Who said he wouldn't?"

Jiang Yunyun insisted, "He won't! Papa's always so busy with work. Now that he's abroad, he'll be working all day. How could he have time to think about his husband and son?"

Jiang Zhiyu was almost amused by his logic. "You're right."

Jiang Yunyun looked at him in surprise, clearly not expecting agreement.

Jiang Zhiyu smirked. "He might not think about his son, but he'll definitely think about his husband."

After all, just last night, he had trapped his Omega in bed for hours, making him swear to think of him every day—no matter which part.

But Jiang Yunyun wasn't having it. "He should think about his son, not his husband!"

Jiang Zhiyu let go, not bothering to argue further. "Did you finish your homework today?"

The kindergarten teacher assigned a small daily task—today's was memorizing a classical poem and attempting to translate it into English.

Jiang Yunyun had spent the whole day wallowing in the pain of separation, with no time for poetry.

"Not yet, but I'll do it when I get home."

Jiang Zhiyu said, "Memorize it before bedtime, or no video call tonight."

Ling Ran had promised to video chat with Jiang Yunyun daily—his condition for letting him leave.

At this, Jiang Yunyun's cheeks puffed up indignantly. "Fine! I'll memorize it!"

Once home, Jiang Yunyun immediately grabbed his little backpack, pulled out his illustrated poetry book, and dashed to his room, slamming the door shut.

Jiang Zhiyu retreated to his study to work.

By dinnertime, Jiang Yunyun still hadn't emerged. Jiang Zhiyu knocked, and the door cracked open just enough for a small head to peek out.

"Come eat."

Jiang Yunyun eyed him warily. "I haven't finished memorizing yet."

He was convinced this was a trick—his Daddy wanted him to fail so he couldn't video chat with Papa and could have him all to himself.

With that, Jiang Yunyun tried to shut the door and return to his studies.

But Jiang Zhiyu wedged his leg in, reached behind the door, and effortlessly scooped him up, plopping him at the dining table.

"Eat first, then memorize." He reached for the poetry book.

Jiang Yunyun clung to it, yelling, "No, no! I'll memorize while I eat!"

Nearby, Song Yi looked impressed. "The young master isn't even four yet, and he's already so diligent. He'll grow up to be a top scholar with a bright future."

Flattered, Jiang Yunyun raised his voice and began reciting:

"The Yellow River, the Yellow River rises far beyond the white clouds, a lonely city, a—a thousand—mountains high. Why should the Qiang flute lament the willow? The spring breeze, the spring breeze..."

Jiang Zhiyu released him, giving him a look that said, Now you're motivated.

"...does not pass the Jade Gate Pass."

Jiang Yunyun shook his head and recited: "The spring breeze does not pass the Jade Gate Pass."

After finishing the verse, he buried his head in his bowl, taking a big mouthful of rice and stuffing his cheeks with meat, then continued mumbling the poem indistinctly.

The poem was far too advanced for a child, but though Jiang Yunyun stumbled through it, he had nearly memorized it already.

Jiang Zhiyu didn't stop him this time. After finishing his meal, he returned to his study.

Once he wrapped up the remaining work, he checked the time. Ling Ran's flight was only halfway through—there was no way he'd make it back before their son went to bed.

But Jiang Zhiyu didn't break the bad news to Jiang Yunyun that their video call wouldn't happen tonight. Instead, he sent Ling Ran a message, asking him to call once he landed.

A few knocks sounded at the study door, and a small head peeked in.

"Daddy."

Jiang Zhiyu set down his phone. "Did you memorize it?"

Jiang Yunyun hugged the poetry book as he walked to the desk. "Yes."

Jiang Zhiyu lifted him onto his lap and took the book. "Recite it."

This time, Jiang Yunyun recited it smoothly without a single stumble.

After he finished, Jiang Zhiyu taught him a few lines of the English translation, correcting his pronunciation before handing the book back.

"Alright, time for bed."

Jiang Yunyun didn't climb down. Instead, he looked up and called out again, "Daddy..."

Jiang Zhiyu raised a brow. "Something else?"

Jiang Yunyun picked up the phone on the desk as a reminder. "We haven't video-called Papa yet."

Jiang Zhiyu knew outright refusal would lead to a tantrum, so he reasoned calmly, "Today doesn't count. You personally saw Papa off at the airport, so you've already met today. Strictly speaking, tomorrow is the first day apart. We'll video-call Papa tomorrow night, okay?"

Jiang Yunyun found his logic sound but still felt something was off. "Then... what about tonight?"

Jiang Zhiyu pinched his little cheek. "Tonight, Daddy will sleep with you."

Jiang Yunyun pouted. "But... what if I miss Papa tonight?"

Jiang Zhiyu stood, carrying him. "Then Daddy will think of something."

Fortunately, they had recordings of all Ling Ran's TV appearances. No matter which episode Jiang Yunyun wanted to watch, they could play it. In the end, they simply left the Jiangzhou News Channel running as background noise.

The voice from the videos sounded different from the usual storytelling voice—calmer, steadier, more authoritative. But to Jiang Yunyun, it didn't matter. As long as it was Papa's voice, it was enough.

Even in sleep, Jiang Yunyun clung tightly to Jiang Zhiyu's hand, as if seeking reassurance.

Jiang Zhiyu didn't leave his side all night, staying with him in the small bed until dawn.

Ling Ran had already landed and sent a message.

Jiang Zhiyu took his phone into the bathroom and called.

The first sound through the receiver was the rush of running water.

"Hubby," Ling Ran called out.

His deep, rich voice carried through the water. "You've arrived?"

"Mhm, just got to the residence and unpacked." Ling Ran noticed the slight hoarseness in his voice. "Why are you up so early? Is Yunyun behaving?"

"Last night, he insisted on video-calling you. It took forever to get him to sleep."

"I'll make time to video call with you today. He's never been away from me for this long and might find it hard to adjust. These next few days will be tough on you, hubby," Ling Ran said.

Jiang Zhiyu's breathing grew heavier. "I'm not used to it either."

Ten days—it had been a long time since he'd been separated from his Omega for so long, and he was already struggling just at the start.

Ling Ran chuckled softly, stepping into a quiet corner before softening his voice. "How about after our daily video call with our son, I stay on a little longer to chat with you, okay?"

Jiang Zhiyu responded with a deep hum, his slow, heavy breaths crackling faintly through the phone. Ling Ran suddenly felt the device grow warm in his hand.

Remembering what the enigma did every morning, he flushed slightly and muttered, "You... you're the worst."

Jiang Zhiyu coaxed him, "Scold me more, baby."

After stepping out of the shower, the enigma felt refreshed. He dressed, skimmed the news, then went to wake their son.

Jiang Yunyun was still half-asleep when he was unceremoniously scooped out of bed and carried to the bathroom. A toothbrush, already loaded with toothpaste, was shoved into his hand. He sleepily popped it into his mouth, scrubbed haphazardly for a few seconds, then let his eyes drift shut again.

Jiang Zhiyu shook his head lightly, and Jiang Yunyun instinctively nuzzled into his palm—only to get a merciless flick on the forehead.

"Enough. No acting spoiled."

Forced into full wake-up mode, Jiang Yunyun was stuffed with breakfast, then carried downstairs by his impeccably suited father, who personally drove him to kindergarten.

These days, Jiang Yunyun no longer insisted on being the first one picked up. With his backpack and water bottle in place, he waved at the luxury car behind him. The car honked once in response, and he puffed out his chest, marching proudly into the school.

Truthfully, waking the child, helping him wash up, feeding him breakfast, and even dropping him off at school didn't require Jiang Zhiyu or Ling Ran to do it themselves—they could easily leave it to the nanny or driver. But the couple preferred handling everything for Jiang Yunyun personally.

With Ling Ran away these days, all responsibilities fell to Jiang Zhiyu. He canceled all social engagements, taking his son to school in the mornings, picking him up in the afternoons, supervising his studies at home, then joining him for video calls with Ling Ran, who was in London.

After the call, Jiang Yunyun obediently went to bed, and Jiang Zhiyu would retreat to the master bedroom with his phone.

Originally, Ling Ran was supposed to return in ten days. But during one of their calls, he dropped an unexpected bombshell—his collaboration with BTC had been extended, meaning he'd have to stay longer.

In front of Ling Ran, Jiang Yunyun behaved perfectly, saying he'd wait patiently for Papa to come home.

But the moment the call ended, the boy burst into tears, clinging to Jiang Zhiyu and sobbing, "Does Papa not want to come back? Does he not want us anymore?"

Jiang Zhiyu reassured him repeatedly, even promising to buy him a small cake the next day and let him watch cartoons for a while. Only then did Jiang Yunyun calm down, sniffling as he asked, "Then... will Papa miss Daddy's birthday too?"

The question caught Jiang Zhiyu off guard—he had nearly forgotten himself. Next Friday, March 28th, was his birthday, and it seemed his Omega wouldn't make it back in time.

Worse yet, if he calculated the days, his rut would likely hit around then. He'd already been feeling restless and overheated lately—an unbearable...

Xu Guanyi could only be given some suppressants to keep on hand for now.

The weekend arrived in the blink of an eye.

Jiang Zhiyu had never been one to celebrate birthdays before, but after marrying Ling Ran, he gradually began to appreciate the little rituals in life.

Early in the morning, Ling Ran called to wish Jiang Zhiyu a happy birthday, then apologized profusely for being unable to return due to work commitments, promising to make it up to him later.

Even without his wife, there was still his son—this was when having a child truly warmed the heart.

Though Jiang Yunyun constantly talked about missing his "Papa," he also deeply loved his "Daddy." It was just that his Daddy was often strict, so he rarely dared to show it.

But today was his Daddy's birthday, so he decided to muster up the courage for once.

Song Yi took Jiang Yunyun out to a bakery, where the boy picked out a beautiful, large cake—both the design and flavor were his choice. Naturally, he chose his favorite, knowing his Daddy didn't care much for sweets anyway. It would all end up in his stomach.

Afterward, they went to the supermarket and bought a pile of ingredients for Jiang Yunyun's favorite dishes—though they made sure to grab some of his Daddy's favorites too.

Once home, Jiang Yunyun locked himself in his room, secretly preparing a gift for Jiang Zhiyu, while Song Yi busied himself in the kitchen cooking up a feast.

That evening, Jiang Zhiyu turned down invitations from Shang Ye and a few friends for drinks. When he opened the door upon returning home, a small cannonball of a child crashed into him.

His son clung to his leg like an excited puppy, calling out, "Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!"—so sweet it could melt anyone's heart. Jiang Zhiyu took off his coat, loosened his tie, and bent down to pick up his son.

Today, Jiang Yunyun didn't fuss. Instead, he wrapped his arms around his father's neck and planted a loud, smacking kiss.

"Daddy, happy birthday!"

Jiang Zhiyu smiled. "Thank you, sweetheart."

Jiang Yunyun then wriggled out of his arms, dashed back to his room, and returned with something resembling a greeting card. He stretched out his arms. "Daddy, hold me!"

Jiang Zhiyu lifted him again, and the boy proudly presented the card.

"Daddy, this is your gift."

Jiang Zhiyu examined it—a colorful sheet of paper covered in scribbles, depicting three figures: two adults holding hands with a child between them, under a bright sun, fluffy white clouds, and a rainbow stretching across a clear blue sky.

"What's this?" Jiang Zhiyu asked.

Jiang Yunyun pointed with a chubby finger. "This is Papa, this is Daddy, and this tiny one is me. This is our home."

"We'll always be together, never apart."

"Daddy, isn't that good?"

Jiang Zhiyu tucked the card away and pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead.

"Yes, sweetheart."

The cake had already been prepared, candles in place. Song Yi lit them and turned off the lights.

Jiang Yunyun tugged his father toward the cake, his little face serious. "Daddy, you have to close your eyes and make a wish, like this—"

Jiang Zhiyu followed his instructions, clasping his hands together and silently repeating his son's words.

Always together, never apart.

Before he could blow out the candles, Jiang Yunyun climbed onto a chair, leaned in close, and whispered mysteriously, "Daddy, there's an even bigger gift for you, but you have to keep your eyes closed."

After speaking, he covered Enigma's ears with his small hands and loudly reminded, "Don't open your eyes, okay? You absolutely must not peek, or I won't give you this gift. Remember, no peeking!"

Jiang Zhiyu chuckled in agreement, "Alright, I won't look."

He kept his eyes closed until he felt another pair of soft hands draping something around his neck. Along with the sweet scent of cream cake, a faint, familiar fruity fragrance drifted into his nose.

Jiang Zhiyu's heart skipped a beat, and he instantly opened his eyes to see a beautiful, delicate face mere inches away. The warm breath nearly brushed against his neck, and those slender arms were smoothing out the barrier patch on his nape before finally pulling back slightly.

Without hesitation, Jiang Zhiyu wrapped an arm around the Omega's waist, pulling him flush against his chest. His large hand settled on the small of the other's back, easily finding the most vulnerable, sensitive spot.

The Omega couldn't withstand the pressure, letting out a soft gasp before tilting his head up, one hand clutching the tie at Enigma's chest, shooting him a shy yet reproachful look.

"My waist's about to break."

Jiang Zhiyu noticed the tie now hanging around his neck—the gift the Omega had brought back for him.

But the real gift was undoubtedly the man who had suddenly appeared before him.

"When did you get back?"

Ling Ran struggled slightly in his grasp but couldn't break free, so he turned Jiang Yunyun's head away instead.

"Just arrived tonight and came straight home," Ling Ran pouted. "I wanted to surprise you, but it seems you don't like this gift."

Such words were downright ungrateful.

Jiang Zhiyu lowered his head and nipped the honeyed bead of his lower lip. "I like it."

"I like it to death."

Ling Ran winced at the sting and quickly glanced at their son nearby in warning.

But after tasting the sweetness of those lips, Jiang Zhiyu found it hard to control himself. He hadn't taken suppressants these past few days, thinking his rut had passed—only now realizing the true trigger hadn't appeared until this moment.

Still holding Ling Ran, Jiang Zhiyu leaned in to blow out the candles.

The room plunged into darkness, prompting Jiang Yunyun to cry out fearfully, "Daddy! Papa!"

A faint, hurried sound of wetness seemed to echo in the dark. When the lights flickered back on, Jiang Yunyun saw his Papa standing several steps away from Daddy, one hand covering his mouth, head bowed as if avoiding his gaze.

The boy hopped off his chair and ran to hug the Omega's leg.

"Papa, did I do good?"

Just as Ling Ran reached to pick him up, Enigma intercepted.

Jiang Zhiyu fixed their son with a look. "You knew all along?"

Jiang Yunyun guiltily averted his eyes. "Y-yes, but Papa made me promise not to tell! He said it wouldn't be a surprise otherwise."

In truth, Jiang Yunyun had only known for half an hour—Ling Ran had secretly coordinated with Song Yi at the doorstep. Seizing this leverage, Jiang Zhiyu declared, "Since you lied, you're sleeping alone tonight."

With that, he handed Jiang Yunyun to Song Yi, instructing, "Don't let him eat too much cake. Put him to bed early."

Song Yi nodded in agreement while holding the little master, then watched as the enigma stepped forward to take the Omega's hand, pulling him into the master bedroom without a backward glance.

Jiang Yunyun widened his eyes in disbelief—how could Daddy resort to such underhanded tactics to monopolize Papa again? He immediately called out loudly, "Papa!"

Ling Ran turned back, seemingly wanting to say something more to his son, but Jiang Zhiyu pinched his cheeks and turned his face back.

"Yunyun is calling me—"

Before he could finish, Jiang Zhiyu had already pulled him into the master bedroom. The door clicked shut, and in the next moment, Ling Ran found himself pressed firmly against it.

"Sweetheart, you haven't quite grasped the situation yet."

Hot breath fanned against his ear as the enigma's pheromones—overwhelming and potent—seeped through his skin, sinking into his bones and blood, mercilessly caressing every scorching inch of his Omega body.

"You're my gift. I'll unwrap you myself."

Ling Ran felt himself being lifted onto the enigma's broad shoulders. The scent patch at the nape of his neck was peeled away gently, and within seconds of inhaling the unleashed pheromones, his legs trembled weakly. His arms instinctively wound around Jiang Zhiyu's neck as his body melted into the embrace.

His breathing grew unsteady, coming in soft gasps as he whispered, "Husband... what's... what's wrong with you...?"

Why were his pheromones so thick, so suffocatingly intense?

Jiang Zhiyu hooked his hands under Ling Ran's thighs, urging him to wrap his legs around his waist, and carried him toward the bed in that position.

Only after pressing him deep into the mattress did he finally speak, his voice rough as he murmured against the delicate shell of Ling Ran's ear:

"How could you forget your husband's rut?"

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