You: "22 more people in queue, estimated waiting time is 1 hour"... Alright, the time should be just nice for me to head over!

There is a viral restaurant opened in the old city area recently, with outstanding flavor and full of uniqueness, where their menu of the day are only six random dishes, so you wouldn't know what you will get to taste here.

Originally, I have asked Osborn out to try it together, but as soon as I wanted to send him the restaurant's pin location, he suddenly told me he had an urgent matter that he couldn't come.

Feeling a little disappointed, I've decided to go alone and give it a try first. If it's really delicious, I will bring Osborn with me next time.

Out of boredom, my sight fell onto the scrolling screen in the vehicle, they are reporting the city news.

"Rich businessman's only son Qin Xin is kidnapped, and his location is still unknown till now... Qin Xin is only 5 years old..." 

You: Sigh, poor kid, I hope he's okay...

Not long after, the subway has arrived its destination. According to the GPS, it'll take 10 minutes by foot until I reach the restaurant.

I rarely visit the old city area, so I slowed down my steps and looked at the surroundings curiously. I've heard that this area is a popular downtown in Guangqi City, as well as the hub for bars and entertainment. The night lights of the city has yet to light up, but there are many neon lights shining at this hour over here.

However, the alleys adjacent from the main road is yet another scene. They are dark, with worms crawling around, and the stares from drunk people would give you goosebumps. I can't help with thinking about the news on the subway from this scenario. In this world that looks like it's full of order, there are always darkness flowing.

As I walk, I noticed that there are some small stalls on the sides of the road. The stalls were selling ordinary trinkets, but a shiny tortoise caught my eye right away.

You: So cute...

I suddenly remembered the Xiaomander* that kept appearing on Osborn's timeline. I took the little ornament, and the neon lights shined on it, making the glass tortoise to shine like a star.

An image of Osborn carrying this ornament appears in mind. It should have looked funny, but when I imagine properly, it actually looks differently cool.

You: Pfft, people who look good would really look good in everything.

Stall owner: Miss, your taste is really good, there is only one of this ornament!

You: Ah, then... I will take it!

Stall owner: Alrighty! Do you want to gift it to someone? I'll wrap it for you!

You: Yes, thank you very much!

I took the little tortoise and faintly sighed.

You: It's unfortunate that I can't see him... I'll give you out next time~! I don't even know what kind of emergency is Osborn up to... 

As I was about to keep moving after keeping the little tortoise into my bag, I saw a familiar figure as soon as I raised my head. 

The figure was standing right beside a woman in an unremarkable street corner, and they were standing closely, shoulder to shoulder.

The woman has short hair, holding her cigarette, whispered something to his ear that made the corner of his lips to curve up.

His black leather jacket's studs are reflecting some ambiguous rays of light, and reflecting them on the woman's body.

You: Os...born...?!

Why is he here? Didn't he say he has something going on? Who's the woman? Could it be that the emergency he mentioned was just to meet her...

So many questions gushed into my brain, and words could not explain the emotions growing in my heart, like the hot tide, yet like the freezing, icy shards.

I looked at the two that are not far away from me, and grabbed my phone subconsciously and...

-- Choice: The woman looks very intimate with Osborn, I'm so angry! What should I do? ----

Note: There are multiple endings, you need to use candies to unlock each ending.

After the segment of the choice end, please jump to the last segment to read the continuation of the story.

I wanted to call him loudly, and rush over to ask properly, but my rationality beats my emotions in the following second.

Although my heart struggles so much, my legs stopped moving as it they got pinned to the ground.

At this moment, as if telepathy existed, Osborn turns his head over, and saw me standing helplessly, but he only paused for a second, and turned around to enter the club with the woman.

The endless disappointment drowned me. As I stood there, the phone in my bag rang so I took it out to check on it.

Osborn: I have a mission, it's dangerous. Don't come.

My heart is now relieved. Even so, the woman just now, is probably not in the kind of relationship I'm thinking about...

I seriously entered "Be careful", not caring about the disappointment in my heart, and left.

I only thought of it shortly, but the two of them have already walked into the club.

No, no matter what I needed to call him out and ask properly, or I will regret it!

So, I found the greatest strength, and yelled his name at the loudest sound I could make.

[Game screen: Hold onto the button and yell his name (though tbh you can just press the button without doing anything lol)]

Although I have yelled loudly, Osborn did not turn back, as if he did not hear a thing.

Yet there is another person that stopped his footsteps as soon as he heard me that turned over to smile at me.

There's a Peppa tattoo on his arm, and his hair color too, is the same as Peppa...

Peppa: Hey beauty, you calling me?

You: Ah? No...

Peppa: I heard it, you called me. How do you know what I am called? Beauty, we are truly fated. As soon as I saw you for the first time I felt something different, this heart of mine, is beating so much, you can listen to it if you don't believe me.

Peppa: Right there in front is my stall selling cold drinks, how about I treat you an original Snowtop Niulanshan*?

T/N: Niulanshan is an alcoholic beverage.

This person is weird!

I frantically ran away, and stopped a cab passing by and left this place where one is apt to be in trouble, never looking back again.

Osborn is probably conducting some important mission, right right, I can't disturb him.

I kept brainwashing myself and ignored him as I walked to the restaurant. As I walked, a car suddenly stopped beside me and gave me a fright.

??: Ay! isn't that Big Bro Osborn's girl!

The windows from the car slowly lowered, and a familiar face showed up.

You: Wen Wan?

Wen Wan: Y/N missy, why are you here? Are you looking for Big Bro Osborn?

You: No, I am here to eat... 

Wen Wan: Ay, it's better not to do, this area is not safe recently. Hop in, let's fetch Big Bro Osborn later.

You: Ah...?

Wen Wan: Just listen to me. Don't need to wait for long, as soon as we fetched Big Bro Osborn, you can go for dinner again.

Well, since he said so. Although having doubts, I ended up abandoning my plans and sat in the back seat.

Wen Wan started driving and circling around the alleys. After half an hour, I no longer know where I am currently at. Finally, Wen Wan stopped at the back entrance of an European building. Not long after, Osborn bustled from the building, opened the car door and sat right beside me.

As soon as he boarded the car, I could smell a tint of alcohol and gunpowder, so I looked at him, amused.

"Shh, don't look at me like this, I'm ok. Look at how nervous you are. I was just meeting someone that could have a say in this area. But he doesn't seem like he wouldn't cooperate, so I came out. Yeah, it's a bounty work, what else would you think?"

"That woman? So you've seen it all. She's our informant, why are you concerned about her? .... I'd know even if you don't say it."

"Why are you here? Coming here to eat alone, you are really stubborn..."

"Yeah, it's my fault for ditching our promise."

"Compensation? Sure. How do you want me to compensate you?"

*your stomach growls*

"Hungry? Well coincidentally I didn't eat too. Since it's all ended, the meal will be my treat."

*brakes*

"There's someone in front, lay down. I am not quite in good terms with that dude, so I don't want him to see you."

"Don't be so nervous, are my legs an uncomfortable pillow to you? Then you truly don't know how to enjoy at all. Be a good girl, just stay for a while more."

"Uh, I am not doing this on purpose. Oh... you are ticklish on the side of your waist?"

"It's not? Then I'll try again. Uh... Don't move around..."

"If you keep moving, I will... No, it's nothing."

"Actually, it's quite comfortable using me as a pillow, isn't it? You are almost asleep. If you like it, it's alright to keep doing it. But for now it's better to wake up, we've arrived the restaurant."

*door opens*

A leaf slowly fall onto Osborn's head, and the woman naturally raises her arm, wanting to sweep it away. Seeing her hand almost touching him, I quickly walked forward, trying my best to stabilize my voice.

You: Osborn!

The woman and Osborn got startled, and slowly turn over.

Although my chest has an unknown flame, I tried my best to suppress it, trying to look as graceful as I could.

Smiling, I walked to Osborn's side and took the leaf from him, and tidied his shirt.

You: Osborn, why are you here?

The shock flashed away from his eyes and turned into light panic. The expression from him to me, it hurts... There IS something that he's hiding from me.

My heart turned into a ball of mess, and I tried to smile calmly while looking at the woman.

You: Who's this? Can you introduce her to me?

The woman laughed as she flicked her cigarette, reached her arm out to me before Osborn responded.

A Rui: Hi, just call me A Rui.

I looked at her, unwilling to lose. I only held her fingers and shook her hand.

You: Hi, I am...

Osborn suddenly cut me off, and glanced at the woman beside him.

Osborn: Enough is enough, A Rui.

His gaze falls on me again with a light gleam, as if he wanted to say something.

Osborn: Let's talk privately.

A Rui: OK, I'll only give you 2 minutes, Yi*.

Yi?? What is with this kind of way of addressing him? 

I unconsciously clenched my fist, and took a deep breath. Osborn, however, let out a light chuckle, held my hand and pulled me aside.

His long fingers opened my tightly clenched fist, gently held it, and a familiar warmth slowly crept onto my fingertips.

Osborn: Why are you here?

The sight of him acting so nonchalantly like how he usually is, I suddenly get even angrier. I don't even know what I am fighting for, but one thing for sure, is that my entire body is full of tension when I saw him being so close with her.

I glared at him and shook his hand off.

You: Why am I here? Someone literally ditched our plan so I had to go there myself. Who would've thought that he was dating another girl?

Osborn startled, trying his best not to smirk, but coughed a few times to cover his smile.

Osborn: *cough cough*, uhm, it's my fault. I'll explain to you later, don't feel like you're wronged. Your pout so much that it's like a baozi now.

 

He squeezed my cheeks, but the lighthearted tone made me even angrier, so I slapped his hand away.

You: Boys should also know how to be more reserved, don't be so touchy! ... even when others touch you!

Osborn: I know, but you aren't even 'others'...

His eyes smiled slyly into crescents, gleaming.

Osborn: Oh, do you mean A Rui?

You: "A Rui"? What an intimate way to address her! You didn't even address me this way!

As soon as I said that, I regret it. What am I even saying... this is so embarrassing...

Osborn stunned a little, and never blinked as while looking over, and immediately a grin surfaced.

Osborn: Pfft, so you are angry over this... You are really cute. Then you tell me, how do you want me to call you? I'll definitely do it.

I stuttered and didn't know how to respond. He sounded like he was only joking, making me, someone this serious, looking like a complete fool.

The feelings of embarrassment rise, and realized that there is only a single thing I wanted to ask -- what's her relationship with you?

But, do I even have the rights to ask this? Don't even mention about the way I asked so angrily earlier...

This feeling, Osborn would definitely not understand, would he?

While wondering how to continue the conversation, the woman called him from somewhere not too far away from us.

A Rui: Yi, time's up.

Osborn hesitantly looked at me, I understood that I can't keep him any longer, and I feel wronged all over again.

You: Fine, go ahead and look for your A Rui!

Osborn: Don't loiter around, go home first, I'll let Wen Wan send you back.

He wanted to hold me, but I shook him off and ran away, so afraid that if I stayed for a second longer that he would see everything.

This is too embarrassing.

The skies have darkened, and the neon lights are shining along the streets, as if there are many pairs of eyes mocking me.

I don' even care where I should go, I just wanted to escape further.

When I gain my senses back, I am already in an alley, far away from the crowd and noises of the vehicles on the streets.

Within the silence comes with an intense yet suppressed voice, someone is making a call in the alley.

??: Well tell me what the f*ck I a supposed to do, Qin Xin will die anytime, and that old fox has probably made a police report...

My legs stopped, instinctively felt a dangerous atmosphere and raised my alertness.

Qin Xin...? I suddenly remembered the news in the subway! Same name, and he was saying... "reporting to the police"?

Did I encounter the kidnapping incident? How could there be such coincidence? But...

I try my hardest to think about the only phrase I've heard, it sounds like he knew where Qin Xin is. Could he be the kidnapper? According to what he say, Qin Xin's condition sounds terrible...

You: A life is at stake, there's no time to hesitate! I need to find somebody!

The first person in my mind was Osborn. He's nearby, should be able to arrive quick... But when I remembered what happened earlier, I hesitated.

Forget it, he has his own business, I'll just make a police report!

I slowly exit the alley as I keep my steps light, and sped up my actions to dial the emergency number. Very quickly, the beeping sound is heard from the phone.

But as soon as the call was picked up, a black shadow suddenly leaped from the side and immediately pressed on my mouth!

You: Mm!! Mmm!!! 

Could this person be the accomplice?! This is bad!

The person behind me covered my mouth with a hand, and snatched my phone with another hand, furiously threw it far away! Then, he dragged me deep inside the alley

The alley does not seem to end, the doors are all shut and I can't yell or make any noise but only to struggle, but the man's arm holds me so firmly like steel. 

The hopelessness slowly seeps into my heart... I'm done for...

At this moment, someone leaped from the walls and accurately pounced this person that have been dragging me onto the floor!

Click! The person didn't even make a sound, and collapsed limply to the ground, never bounced again.

The clicking sound gave me goosebumps, and followed by a deep sound of breath. The person in front of me is stealth like a wolf, and slowly stood up.

The silhouette is full of wildness, giving out an explosive breath, making people fearful. But to me, it is as if a god descended.

... It's Osborn. It really is Osborn.

As if my last bits of strength has been drained away, I almost wanted pounce on him and cry loudly.

But I have not forget the most important thing, so I kept suppressing my voice and shivers.

You: The one that kidnaps Qin Xin is inside!

Osborn: Enough! I've let Wen Wan to do the chasing, he can't run away. As for you...

I lowered my head as he gazed downwards, and only then I realized that my legs have been badly bruised, it was probably caused by the dragging just now. Looking at the amount of blood on my leg, my legs turned weak, almost sitting on the ground, but Osborn held me into his arms.

I struggle in vain, avoiding his burning gaze this close.

You: How did you find me...

Osborn: Wen Wan saw you on the way and saw you weren't in the right condition so he told me. Then I saw your phone in the alley that have dialed a police number that lasted merely a few seconds.

Osborn speaks as his face starts to sink. 

Osborn: Didn't I ask you to go home first? Why loiter around? You know that I am nearby, but why don't you call me? Don't you know that police would take time until they are here?

Osborn gets agitated as he speaks. As his voice roars, the unsettling feelings of wrongness and how bothered I was suddenly found a way out, and my eyes started to blur.

You: Why should I call you? What am I to you? Why should I keep giving trouble to you? Who am I to interrupt your important date? You are so busy, and you still needed to accompany A Rui, only having 2 minutes to talk to me, how could I have the heart to interrupt your good time?

Osborn: ...

The thunder sounds as the lightning strikes, accompanied by the raindrops falling onto my face, pulling me back into the senses.

I pushed Osborn away and cling on my backpack with my whole life, starting a rare confrontation with him.

It's almost as if I don't do so, the feelings that caused my discomfort for the entire night will show barely right in front of him.

If that happens... what should I do...?

Drip drop. The raindrops kept falling, making a thin veil of rain. Osborn stood in a rain like this, his entirety seemed to be blurred.

My nose suddenly felt sore, and the only thought left in mind was only to leave.

I must leave this place, leave the place that gave me so much of embarrassment and sadness.

You: Forget it.

I turned around. And right at the moment, my shoulders are locked, a strong force turned me back! Everything happened at that one moment, and before I could even react in that second--

Osborn pulled me towards him, lowered his head for a kiss.

You: !!!

I stared strangely, but what's in my sight was merely white, like there are hundreds of thousands of fireworks simultaneously light up in front of me.

I tried pushing him away subconsciously, but was only held even tighter in his arms, the force from his lips is abnormally barbarous.

The rainwaters seeped into my clothes, it should have felt cold, but all I could feel was the boiling heat of the man right in front of me.

His body exudes hostility, as if he's a hunter wanting to eat me up. But in the contrast, the lips that entangled with mine gradually became soft, with restraint and tenderness.

At this short yet long time, my ears felt like it is covered with a thin film, and I couldn't hear anything. The only thing left was our breaths, the moments between reality and nothingness melted into one, drowned under this overwhelming affection.

I don't know how long it took until he let go of me, he held my face and put away my drenched hair. 

I lowered my gaze and was afraid to look at him, my heart almost leaped out.

You: ... You.. Why are you like this...

Osborn: Because we can't just end things that way.

He lifted my chin, forcing me to look into his eyes.

Osborn: Listen properly, That A Rui is our informant. She was supposed to refer me to a boss to discuss some issues. It relates to a life, so I have no choice but to temporarily put our promise aside.

You: If it's only an informant, do you need to call her so intimately? She calls you Yi, and you called her A Rui...

Osborn: That's because we don't know each others' full name.

You: ...

Osborn: You wanted to call me that too? I'm quite looking forward to it.

You (blushing): I don't want to.

You: So that's why she only gave you two minutes, it's because she wanted to bring you to see someone...

Osborn: Of course. 

Osborn chuckles.

Osborn: Do you have any other questions?

I slowly shook my head. 

You: Did I cause you to be unable to... attend to the issue that involves someone's life...?

Osborn: There's no longer a need.

He shook his phone, it's a message from Wen Wan - "Big Bro Osborn, case is closed!" 

You: That's a relief...

Osborn: But you... You're jealous over this, aren't you silly?

You (pouting): It was you who didn't explain things clearly.

Osborn: I'm at fault. Sorry, y/n.

Osborn lowered his gaze and looked at me, despite the dark night, I could see his unusually deep feelings from his eyes.

Osborn: But I will not allow you to push me off because of a little mistake. If you are in trouble again, you must think of me, and you can only think of me. Because to me, you are more important than anyone else.

The sudden answer is simple yet solemn hits right into my heart, leaving me stunned for a second. I lowered my head, hiding my overwhelming emotions, and softly spoke.

You: Alright, I promise you...

My lips are still slightly numb, as if I could still feel the strength and warmth from Osborn.

Thinking of these, my heartbeat messes up again, but different from the past, they are rippling gently.

I forced myself to stay calm, since the truth might not be what I've imagined. Osborn might probably be undergoing an important mission...

But, what if he isn't?!

After contemplating, I've done something that even I myself find ridiculous. I... hid...

You: What am I even doing? Why do I look like I'm catching a cheater... No, no, I just wanted to know more about him!

I entered a narrow alley, from this angle it is perfect to see every movement between Osborn and the woman.

But right at this moment of excitement, it is unrealistic to want to monopolize an alley. Now, there are two young men squatting near the wall behind me. One of them had a Peppa tattooed on his arm, and another had a pair of wings tattooed on his shoulder. They exhaled smoke, and are immersed in the vicissitudes of the society.

Peppa: Hey, who do you think the dude is with A Rui?

Wings: Never seen him before, so skinny and tender, doesn't look like he's part of a gang.

I followed their gaze and glanced over, it seems like they were talking about Osborn? So A Rui is the woman's name?

I quickly pricked up my ears, but at the same time not forgetting my camouflage. I pulled out my phone and acted as if I was seriously watching videos.

Peppa: Not a punk? Then what do you think that dude is doing in front of the club door? Could it be A Rui's new boy?

Wings: Don't shit with me, A Rui is still good with her man. Most likely that dude wants to see Boss Wang, and wanted A Rui to introduce them.

Peppa: Oh, what you said makes sense too.

Wings: But he looks like he's on the wrong person...

Peppa: Oh? How so?

The man tattooed with wings mysteriously paused and lowered his voice.

Wings (smug): Heheh, I was Boss Wang's driver once last week, heard a lot. Let me tell you, A Rui is recently dishonest, Boss Wang is suspecting her. Bringing someone new over at this time, it's likely that both of them wouldn't get a chance to play the game.

Peppa: Whoa! Then there's a good show to watch!

Accompanying the laughter of the two that takes pleasure from others' sufferings, my heart slowly sank into coldness.

Everything I saw has a clear explanation. My instinct is telling me that what the punks said are possibly real. If it is true, I need to inform Osborn quickly!

Just thinking of this, I couldn't wait anymore. I quickly stride across the main road right towards Osborn. 

When I walked closer, I suddenly noticed one thing. The club's house has a few people, with unusual behavior and appearance, as if they are very aware of their surrounding, looks like they might be subordinates of Boss Wang.

If that's what it is, this wouldn't work, so how should I tell him?

Without thinking further, a bright idea came up, and I pounced on Osborn.

You: Honey! I am here!

Osborn: ???

Osborn was so shocked his eyes widened as I hugged him.

You: Have you waited long? I was looking for you everywhere! Aren't you silly? The restaurant is right in front. If you don't hurry, your favorite strawberry pudding will be sold out!

Hearing what I said, he lightly frowned upon confusion at first, and his expression turned very alerted. He quickly threw a glance to A Rui, then pulled me away as if nothing happened.

Still, after some distance, I could still feel suspicious looks following us.

I turned over and hugged him by his neck, and stick close to his ear.

You: If you are looking for Boss Wang with A Rui, she is suspected, don't go!

I let him go quickly, and he was still stunned, not sure if it was because of what I said, or if it was from the intimate act from me. But only in a single moment, he returned to his usual calmness, and ruffled my hair.

Osborn: Is that so, thank you.

His eyes looked downwards for a moment, as if he was thinking of the pros and cons.

Osborn: But, I still needed to follow the original plan. Don't worry, go back and wait for me.

He has yet to finish his sentence, and there are a group of men in black blocking our path.

Man in black: I'm sorry, nobody gets to leave.

Osborn and I entered the club under the watch of the men in black. The darkness in the club makes a great contrast with the bright doors, bits of colorful rays shines mesmerizingly from the ceiling, with some of the light blinking within the dark space, then suddenly disappears.

Osborn kept me behind him, following the men in black across layers and layers of decks, and walked to the private room at the very end.

??: Mm!!! Mmm!!!

A cry came from the corner of the walls, my heart felt like it's stuck in my throat as soon as I looked over to the source of the sounds.

It's A Rui! She looks like she has been tied like a sack and thrown to the corner, bleeding from her forehead, the way she looked at is is full of despair, yet the men in black stood around the room, completely ignoring her voice. Under the dim lights, their faces look emotionless, and there was no anger in them.

Lastly, I timidly looked into the middle of the private room. A fat man wearing buddha's beads in a linen shirt is sitting on the leather sofa. Hearing our arrival, all he did was raising his eyelids slightly.

??: Boss Xiao is here.

Osborn: Boss Wang knows me?

Boss Wang: Although us and your Longday has never clashed with each other before, but I have at least heard of you.

Osborn: If that's the case, then it's a whole lot easier. What do I even need A Rui for? C'mon, give some face and release my girlfriend. 

Osborn raised his arm and placed it over my shoulder, I stunned. Did he just say I'm his... his girlfriend?!

Osborn: This has nothing to do with her, she's just here to eat, but saw me right here. She's good at everything, but she's easily jealous. As soon as she sees me with a woman, she'll come over and be coquettish.

Although I know he's only saying this to save me, but this is too... 

Osborn looked at me and smiled, softly caressing my shoulder as if he's trying to console me. Feeling embarrassed, I look away from him.

Boss Wang: Hahaha, my wife is like that too. But don't be such a stranger, Boss Xiao. Since you have brought her in, I will do my best as a host. Hey pretty, do you want some martini?

Osborn: Thank you, but she doesn't know how to drink. 

Boss Wang: Well then. Pretty, do you know how to play Blackjack?

You: Um, only knowing the rules...

... Making sure the cards on your hand stays as close to 21 as possible, but not exceeding 21. The rules are not too difficult. But the way Boss Wang asks, it doesn't seem like it's just a normal invitation, so I concentrated on his next move.

Boss Wang: As long as you understand the rules. Well then, let's not give trouble to the pretty lady and simplify this, only remember wins and loses.

He pushed the stacks of chips aside loudly.

Osborn: Sure, but only five rounds. My girlfriend is still hungry.

Boss Wang: Alright.

The men in black pulled the chairs beside the card table, letting Osborn and I to have a seat.

Boss Wang: But there's still a need to bet. What should we bet... Oh, how about something that you are interested in? Let's make it... A Rui's life.

His tone sounded as if he was only putting a light bet. My body is filled with so much tension, unsure if he was being serious or not. A Rui turned pale as soon as she heard the words. Subconsciously, I looked into her eyes and could feel the strong desire of asking for help.

Boss Wang: Who among us win the most times will decide A Rui's life, how do you think, Boss Xiao?

The lights on the card table is extraordinarily hot that my forehead is sweating lightly, it also made Boss Wang's expression to be clearer. Within his expressions, there are doubts, deep thoughts, and also the intentions to probe.

I looked at Osborn timidly, but there are no changes of expression on his face, the usual calm smile is still hanging onto his face.

Osborn: Of course.

Boss Wang: Good. Then the pretty lady and Osborn will be a house, and I will be the dealer. Are you ready?

Osborn: Yep. Let's begin.

Boss Wang stood up to distribute the cards. The first round started. Osborn looked at the cards in front, holding his hips and leaned towards the chair, indulging in silence.

Boss Wang: Pretty, do you want to have a go?

You: ... Alright, I'll hit*!

Then the round turns to Osborn, and he skillfully made a gesture to stop receiving cards.

Boss Wang: A stand* this early? Very charismatic, Boss Xiao.

Boss Wang looked as if he was either smiling or not, and turned the conversation.

Boss Wang: A Rui told the location of my storage to outsiders. At the beginning I didn't understand where she got her guts from, until my subordinates saw her with you... she has a new backing.

Osborn: If the bounty union had their eyes onto your storage, they will bring the items that you are the most interested with to trade with you, those information are not required.

Boss Wang: Oh? Then what do you know about my interests?

Osborn: I can tell you after this game ends.

At last, the dealer opens his hidden card, Osborn and I lost the first round. Osborn smirked, not minding at all.

Osborn: Boss Wang is underestimating his opponents I see.

Boss Wang: What do you mean?

Osborn: If you are only looking at the easiest prey, there is a possibility to miss out other potential dangers. From what I know, what A Rui lacked was only money, but if there are other traitors that betrayed you, then it isn't necessarily only for money.

Boss Wang contemplated, and started distributing the cards for the second round. He slowly  puts two cards in front of me, and I took them.

As soon as I touched it, the smell of rust gushed into my noses, a sinister and fierce emotion rushed into my body, supporting my senses like the cold blades, also like the hissing, venomous snake. And behind the gloom appears a cruel scene. Regardless the result, Boss Wang plans to kill A Rui!

Goosebumps are all over my skin. Although we are using a life as betting, but I have never felt such strong killing intent so intuitively. Did Osborn feel it? Or, he has already gotten used to things like this? What should happen to A Rui? A series of thoughts are hooting in my mind, I can't stop myself from looking at Osborn... 

At this time too, Boss Wang's alerted gaze is thrown to me! Knowing how I act looking suspicious, I kept trying to suppress the fear that almost exploded from my chest, slowly returning to calmness.

This round too, the dealer has won. We have lost two rounds consecutively.

I can't hold back, so I gave a questioning gaze to Osborn, but he only smiled at me and nodded.

Osborn: Boss Wang, you should learn to hold back,  you can't just decide winning or losing by looking at what's in front of you. Rather than immediately dealing with the traitor, you should follow the flow to find out who bought the storage information.

Boss Wang: Hmph.

Third round.

Boss Wang placed two cards right in front of me, I... gotten two Qs**?

You: I won! 

But before I could feel joy, I could feel the oppression from Boss Wang's look. Suddenly I have a bad premonition about this.

Round four, I think my points are high enough, so I called for a stand. Osborn too, chose the same with me.

The dealer opens their hidden card, and continued to take a card... who would have thought that it busts on the first card! We're now tied!

"Bam!"

A loud sound came from Boss Wang's thick palm slamming on the table. He stood up, with eyes gleaming like a venomous snake, pausing every single word he said.

Boss Wang: What, the, hell, did, you, all, do?

Why did he think of that?

I stunned, thinking of what has happened just now, then I started to understood something. From when I started to feel a bunch of emotions and exchanging looks with Osborn multiple times, and suddenly the tables have turned, Boss Wang must have been thinking that we were cheating...

Osborn chucked, and shook his head.

Osborn: Boss Wang is a person that loves his cards, so you shouldn't be this unwilling to lose, and there's a final round.

Boss Wang: This girl right here kept looking at you, do you think I'm blind?

At the roar of Boss Wang, the men in black started moving. Suddenly, many black holes of the gun muzzle is now facing towards us! I feel like I've been choked by the grim reaper, and took up all my strength to let out a weak voice.

You: I am not cheating, Boss Wang you must have misunderstood...

This explanation almost took out all of m energy, I can only look at Osborn helplessly.

Osborn behaved in his usual calm composure and pat on my shoulder, then slowly stood up.

Osborn: Boss Wang, nobody could calculate the winning odds within 5 rounds, you are thinking too highly about us. Also my girlfriend is not even good at this, she's a tiny idiot that would even get lost in the streets.

As he uttered his words, he reached his hand to squeeze my cheeks, this tiny gesture calmed me down a lot, and I can finally breathe properly.

Osborn: But it's useless to explain, since I've made Boss Wang unhappy, how about this, I'll add a heavier bet. A Rui's life, and also my life. Not sure if this will make you play happily, Boss Wang?

What did Osborn just said.... Adding his... what?

Something buzzed in my ear, and it's as if I couldn't hear a thing anymore. Boss Wang isn't joking, he would... he would really!!

You: Osborn, you can't do this!!

Before I pulled my senses back together, I've already stood up and knocked down the chair. 

You: Osborn, this is not funny!!

Boss Wang looked at me without a care, chuckled as he judged Osborn.

Boss Wang: Xiao Yi... Are you sure?

Osborn: I'm sure.

Looking at the two of them agreeing with each other, my heart almost jumped out, I can't stand this anymore. 

You: You punks, are you really putting your pride over anything, that you think it's so cool to use human lives as a toy? You suddenly lay your life out like this, what will your brothers, your family, or the ones that cared for you feel?! Can you guys stop acting on impulse? Not even a single bit of responsibility, the one that I despise are the likes of you!

I didn't bother to care anymore, fear has made me to explode the energy that I never had! I didn't care and yell, then soon after it's as if my energy got all drained out, I fell back to the chair, panting. Osborn and Boss Wang suddenly went speechless, looking at me surprised. The room is left with a scary silence.

In an instant, Osborn laughs lightly and walked to my side. He reached out his arms to hold me by the back of my head, and pulled me to his chest, and slowly pressed on it.

Osborn: I'm sorry, I made you worry. Don't think about anything, just enjoy the game.

You: Osborn, you...

Hearing his unbothered tone, I let out a long breath, but tears started to fall uncontrollably. This time, the observing Boss Wang laughed a bit, the tensed atmosphere disappeared, and the men in black retreated back to darkness.

Boss Wang: Oh Boss Xiao, your woman too is someone with quite the temper, just like my wife. Alright, looking at the deep affection between the two of you, I believe in you. But Boss Xiao's bet cannot be taken back.

Osborn: Then thanks.

Finally, the fifth round.

Right now, both us and Boss Wang has wins and losses, A Rui's life, and Osborn's life, it'll all depend on this very last round.

Boss Wang took the card, and lightly placed two cards in front of me, then it's Osborn's. I held my breath, and my gaze subconsciously fell onto his two cards.

First card... It's an Ace*! My heart beats even faster. 

*T/N: Ace is counted as either 1 or 11. With K, it's a blackjack (21).

Second card... it's K! It's blackjack!

I almost screamed, but I remembered that the game has yet to end.

Then, Boss Wang took out his own card, and it's also a blackjack?!

We are... tied...

I unbelievably looked at Osborn. Is this a coincidence? But through my teary eyes, I only saw him raising his eyebrows at me, then turned to Boss Wang.

Osborn: I think, this is the best result. A Rui is your man, so you should use your smartest way to settle it, I have no intentions to be a part of it.

Boss Wang stood up, showing a satisfied smile. 

Osborn: You are very well-measured. I like to make friends like you.

Osborn stood up too.

Osborn: My dictionary only has "win-win". So can we finally talk properly? Find the true traitor, and find the person behind this, I can do this for you. Yet our bounty union's request is also very simple... Let's talk inside.

Boss Wang made a gesture, and a wine rack opens from the side to reveal a small chatting room. Osborn walked into the room with Boss Wang. Until the door closes, his gaze has never left me. His smiling eyes are telling me not to worry.

I quietly went to the sofa, crossing my hands that turned cold due to nervousness, and began to wait anxiously.

Not long after, Osborn is out from the room. Before bidding farewell, he even shook hands with Boss Wang.

Leaving the club, returning to the main road, it's raining outside. The wet ground's surface is now reflecting the colors of the neon lights. I took a deep breath, the air was cooling yet refreshing, and as if it's full of fireworks, I felt alive again.

You: Phew... It's good to be alive.

Osborn gently pat on my shoulder to console me. 

Osborn: Were you afraid just now?

You (sighing): ... Yes, a little.

My thoughts returned to the dark private room, I can't help but to ask questions to clear my doubts.

You: Did you purposely make the match to end as a tie?

Osborn: Yep. His temper is unstable, and he wants to be the only winner, so instead of winning him, it's better to make it a tie. When we came to an agreement in partnership, he has promised not to touch A Rui.

You: I am so sorry! When I touched the cards, I felt Boss Wang's emotions... I can feel that he could kill A Rui, so I couldn't control my expressions just now, so it caused what happened...

Osborn: I know.

He nodded, and solemnness exudes between his brows.

Osborn: I should've been the one saying sorry, for bringing you into things like this.

You: It's alright, if I'm following by your side, there isn't much to be afraid of.

Osborn: Yeah right, who was the one crying like a little kitten in that room earlier?

You (flustered): If you talk badly about me again I will not accept the apology! 

Of all things that he could say, he picked something that he shouldn't have uttered a single word about!

The rain falls heavier and heavier, and the rainwaters flow down from the eaves, making a shining chain, looking like a pearl curtain from afar. We coincidentally looked at this beautiful scene, with a short silence, Osborn looked at me again. 

Osborn: The words you've said...

You: Hmm?

Osborn: "What happens to those cared about you?" got me thinking. What do I do? Before I think of the answer, I can't act recklessly anymore. Because I'm now worried, that the one cared for me would cry.

I looked at him, a little surprised. A pair of affectionate eyes fall into my sight. Unable to think of the words deeply enough, I am already locked within his gentle gaze, unable to move for quite a while, until a gentle breeze brought me back to reality.

You: Then, please keep having me tagging along with you! If you are too far away, I will bring you back,

Osborn: Sure.

This statement, however, suddenly sounded full of pride, who would've thought that as soon as I ended my sentence, my stomach started growling. 

Osborn: Looks like my pet needs feeding. How about looking for a place to fill your stomach?

You: Yeah!!

Osborn held my hand, and I allowed him to lead me as we run into the rain. The rainwater has wet our hair and skin. As the wind blows, it feels cooling, yet also filled with carefree excitement. The waters splashed around our feet, the whole world reflected in the waters is now shaking in front of my eyes, with the neon lights spreading everywhere, showing their mesmerizing colors. His hand is warm and strong, interlocking with mine. Like this, we left our troubles, fears and the coldness far behind.

I don't know where he will bring me to, but I am firmly following him, as if he is my only direction in this colorful world.

Few days later, Osborn and I met.

The breeze engulfed the sounds of the hustle and bustle, spreading it along the street under the silvery moonlight.

Osborn: It's a little late, let's get supper?

You: Sure! Uhm... It's so weird.... Every time I spend with you, it's either we are eating, or we are on the way to eat something.

Osborn: Don't thank me, I'm just suiting to your liking.

You: Right! Then let me also suit myself to your liking for once!

I took out the little tortoise ornament I bought earlier and placed it in his palm. It's so confusing on that day, that I didn't even think of the present. Now I have finally gotten the chance to give it out to him.

You: Look! It looks like Xiao Huolong isn't it? It's a gift for you. Although it isn't as cute as Xiao Huolong, and not as attentive as Xiao Huolong, but it can stay by your side every moment. Make sure to bring him with you!

Osborn: Yes madam.

He picks up the ornament, carrying it with his wide palms and examine it carefully.

Osborn: When did you buy it?

He asks as he opened the doors of a restaurant, the windchimes' sounds rang, and the sounds of the restaurant flows out with their lighting.

Sitting right opposite of him, I told him everything he didn't know on the other day.

Osborn: I'm sorry, I'll try not to let this happen again.

You: I didn't mean it that way, it's alright to have emergency sometimes. But if it's possible, I hope you will share what you've encountered to me.

He looked at me, and the gentleness exudes from the curved brows, and finally nodded.

Osborn: It's about the kidnapping issue of the businessman's son Qin Xin. The kidnapper of Qin Xin is a punk under Boss Wang, but this was not the idea of Boss Wang, but because of the punk having huge debts from gambling that made him to do this. On the other day, the informant referred me to Boss Wang, and this is to convince Boss Wang to be on our side - to not make minor sacrifices to safeguard major interests and let us know the kidnapper's identity. At the same time, his gang has a traitor. So in exchange, I will investigate who the traitor is. However, it's all solved now.

You: Right... Although the way you solve things are rather out of the box... but I believe you are doing things that you believe is right. So, no matter what you have encounter, please tell me without hesitations.

Osborn: Of course. Because it wasn't anything interesting, so I didn't specifically tell you about it. But what do I do? I feel like, you are still minding what happened on the other day.

Both elbows on the table, his gazed past the table and focused on me.

I'm surprised, so is that what it is? I didn't even feel it.

Frantically averting my gaze from him, I tried to focus my thoughts to that very night, and opened my mouth.

You: ... do you know what I was thinking at that time?

Osborn: Oh?

You: I was thinking... That woman's gaze is sharp, like an beautiful leopard, wild, unruly and elegant. When she was standing with you, it looks like both of you are from the same world. And as for me... there are so much that I don't know, and I couldn't even help. In front of both of you, I feel like it's as if I'm the intruder...

The feelings of unwillingness started to bud, I tightly held onto the corners of my shirt quietly and looked downwards.

At this time, a warm hand lifted my cheeks, forcing me to raise my eyes to look into a gentle yet firm gaze.

Osborn: You're wrong. These are indeed the buddies that have fought alongside me. However, if I stay with them for too long, I will get too used to the night, and forget about daytime. Only you will remind me that battles did not exist for the battle itself, but exist for the final destination.

The gentle words has started a ripple from my heart, the envy, the feelings of being wronged, the insecurities... they have drowned into the waters and disappeared.

As the splendid lights passed by, the two of us only gazed into each others' eyes, as if they are the only light of hope in the midst of the dark night.