At the moment Chen Zemian chose to trust Lu Zhuonian, he gave up his reliance on the plot.
Lu Zhuonian had no idea what Chen Zemian had sacrificed.
But he knew this much: few in the world would have the courage to reject the olive branch extended by someone as powerful as Lu Zizhen—just to honor his choice.
Courage goes both ways.
Chen Zemian’s decision gave Lu Zhuonian a deeper, more grounded confidence.
He had always known he held a place in Chen Zemian’s heart. But “holding a place” was an abstract notion—ethereal, vague, without measure.
He had never known if that weight was light or heavy, fleeting or enduring.
Now, under pressure and comparison, the abstract became concrete. And it bore a value that could almost be measured.
“Do you know what it means to reject my dad?”
Lu Zhuonian lowered his eyes and looked at Chen Zemian. “Anything in this world that can be achieved—he can make it happen for you.”
Chen Zemian’s eyes curved in a smile. “But he can’t do anything to you.”
Lu Zhuonian nodded. “Exactly.”
Lu Zizhen could coerce and bribe anyone—but he was powerless against his own son.
Forcing a child to do something he resents not only backfires—it fractures the father-son bond, and sours everything further.
Once Lu Zhuonian had made up his mind, not even his biological parents could sway him. They could only try other ways.
So, Lu Zizhen came to Chen Zemian.
Chen Zemian looked at Lu Zhuonian and said, “Because he knows he can’t touch me. But if I take his check, you’ll definitely go abroad.”
A faint smile appeared on Lu Zhuonian’s usually indifferent face. “Chen Zemian, the way you say that… you’re really quite confident.”
Chen Zemian’s eyes shone like stars. “Am I wrong?”
Lu Zhuonian raised a hand and brushed the fallen petals from Chen Zemian’s shoulder. “Then… are you willing to give up the check?”
Chen Zemian glanced at the check on the table. He clearly wasn’t eager to part with it, but he also didn’t want to go against Lu Zhuonian’s wishes or force him into something he didn’t want.
“I don’t want to go abroad,” Lu Zhuonian said softly. “It’s just… before, I felt the timing wasn’t right. Now… maybe it is.”
He gently pushed Chen Zemian’s back and encouraged, “If you really want it, then go and take it.”
But Chen Zemian didn’t move.
He needed more time to think.
Lu Zhuonian didn’t rush him. He simply waited, patiently, for Chen Zemian to make his decision.
He was his father’s weakness. And Chen Zemian was his.
Lu Zizhen played a long game. He had grasped the core contradiction in the tangled web of relationships—and struck precisely.
Sending someone to pick up Chen Zemian was both an invitation—and a warning.
Lu Zhuonian looked up at the flower hall, his gaze passing through the lattice of colored lights and shadows, landing on Lu Zizhen in the distance.
Lu Zizhen knew his son well. And what he saw in those eyes was a resolve he had never witnessed before.
If Lu Zhuonian wanted something, nothing in this world could stop him.
He was determined.
And he would not let go.
Chen Zemian was very different from what Lu Zizhen had imagined. But he wasn’t surprised that his son was drawn to him.
That dazzling appearance paired with a carefree spirit—together, they created a rare, untamed charm that was difficult to ignore.
Lu Zhuonian’s life had always been orderly, stable, and predictable. To be drawn to someone like Chen Zemian—vibrant and fast-paced—felt almost like destiny.
This time, Lu Zizhen had two goals in approaching Chen Zemian.
One was to test the waters—was there still any wiggle room in the matter of studying abroad?
The other—was to see whether Chen Zemian’s place in Lu Zhuonian’s heart could still be shaken.
The results were clear.
There might still be negotiation around studying abroad—but Chen Zemian’s position was untouchable.
Lu Zizhen turned his fingertips slightly, already knowing this matter would not be simple.
The flowers may be in bloom—but the water remained unmoved.
His son had expressed himself so plainly—yet Chen Zemian was still outside, hesitating over that check!
The gap in emotional progress made the old father feel faint. Clearly, relying on his son alone wasn’t enough.
Besides, Zhuonian had a hidden illness. Not everyone could handle that kind of high-intensity, high-pressure lifestyle. It was easy to scare people away.
And this Chen Zemian—he looked delicate. He didn’t seem like someone who could endure hardship. Word was, his health wasn’t great. He’d visited the Lu family hospital several times, even had a full-body checkup the first time—including a brain MRI.
Allergies. Asthma. Delicate stomach.
But all of those could be nurtured.
Lu Zizhen pondered for a moment, then instructed the housekeeper, “Put two boxes of tribute bird’s nest and the special-grade cordyceps in the car. Have Zhuonian’s chef cook them morning and night. Make sure he eats. Other supplements—send them monthly from now on. No need to check with me again.”
The housekeeper had served in the Lu residence for years and understood the master’s intentions well.
“Yes, sir,” he responded at once. “I’ll also add some sea cucumber, seahorse, ginseng, and deer antler. Those can boost immunity. Chen Gongzi is still young—he’ll get better once he eats properly.”
Lu Zizhen looked out at the slender figure in the courtyard, frowning. “Why is he so thin? What does he usually eat over there?”
The housekeeper answered smoothly, “His meals used to match those here. But since he developed stomach problems, we’ve switched to medicinal stews. No oily meats or raw seafood. He’s also not allowed to dine out or drink with Xiao Shao and the others.”
Lu Zizhen had known Lu Zhuonian kept Chen Zemian in a private residence. But he hadn’t realized he also controlled his diet so strictly. Disapproving, he asked, “When did this start?”
“More than a month ago.”
“Zhuonian’s personality… he always goes too far.” Though Lu Zizhen’s face remained calm, his eyes revealed a trace of dissatisfaction. “They’re young. This is the time to eat and have fun. Keeping him cooped up like that—it’s no wonder things feel strained.”
The housekeeper pursed his lips, suppressing a smile. “You’re right, sir. Should I add two dishes and invite Chen Gongzi to dine here tonight?”
Lu Zizhen thought for a moment. “Forget it. It’s only his first time meeting me—he might be nervous and lose his appetite.”
The housekeeper reminded him gently, “Actually, it’s the second time, sir. That night at the winery, when Young Master went missing, Chen Gongzi was the first to find him—and he met you outside the hospital.”
It had been a chaotic night, and Lu Zizhen’s attention had been entirely on his son. He hadn’t registered what the other boy even looked like. But now, with the housekeeper’s reminder, the two images overlapped.
Lu Zizhen looked at Chen Zemian again—and said softly, “So it was him.”
Chen Zemian noticed Lu Zizhen watching him again.
In just a few minutes, he’d looked over three or four times.
What was he staring at?
Feeling uncomfortable, Chen Zemian turned away and whispered, “Why does your dad keep looking at me?”
Lu Zhuonian glanced at his father.
“Zhuonian, come here.” Lu Zizhen called out.
Lu Zhuonian stepped forward. Seeing that Chen Zemian remained still, he paused and waited.
Chen Zemian nudged him. “Go. He didn’t call me.”
Lu Zhuonian didn’t push him. “Then wait here for a bit. I’ll talk to him and take you home.”
Chen Zemian nodded and watched as he entered the flower hall. The father and son spoke in hushed voices, too quiet to catch.
Lu Zhuonian’s expression darkened. His mood soured visibly. After a few curt exchanges, he came back and said, “He wants to talk to you.”
Chen Zemian walked over. “Mr. Lu, do you have further instructions?”
Lu Zizhen gestured for him to sit.
There had been four people in the flower hall. Now only Lu Zizhen remained seated.
With Lu Zhuonian still standing, Chen Zemian hesitated. But Lu Zhuonian pressed gently on his shoulder and murmured, “It’s alright. Sit down.”
So Chen Zemian did—though stiffly. “Mr. Lu, I’m afraid I may not be able to cooperate with your plans regarding the study abroad matter.”
Lu Zizhen waved that off. “You two can discuss that on your own. I called you over to ask—what kind of food do you like?”
Chen Zemian blinked. “Food?”
Weren’t they talking about studying abroad? How did the topic suddenly shift? Did he skip a page? Did the world skip a frame?
The housekeeper explained with a smile, “Mr. Lu noticed you looked thin and thought the food might not be nourishing enough. He wants to assign a chef from the Lu residence to cook for you, so he’s asking about your tastes. Do you prefer imperial cuisine, Shandong, Huaiyang, Sichuan, Cantonese, or Anhui?”
“Sichuan!” Chen Zemian blurted.
Lu Zhuonian coughed.
Realizing his slip, Chen Zemian quickly corrected, “No—wait, not Sichuan.”
Lu Zhuonian looked quietly pleased and cast a smug glance at his father.
“Why not?” Lu Zizhen asked.
Chen Zemian wilted slightly. “I have a weak stomach. Can’t eat spicy food.”
Lu Zhuonian, clearly satisfied, patted his head gently. “I’ll buy you Xinglex Ice on the way back.”
Chen Zemian perked up a little. “I want a mocha with cocoa chips, oat milk, and three pumps of raspberry syrup.”
Lu Zhuonian said, “One pump.”
Chen Zemian countered, “Two pumps.”
Lu Zhuonian relented. “Two pumps are fine—but you have to eat medicinal food tonight.”
And so, an agreement was reached. After all, even without Starbucks, Chen Zemian would still have to eat the medicinal food at night.
Getting a cup of Xinglex Ice with two pumps of raspberry syrup for free? Not a bad deal.
Lu Zizhen watched the entire negotiation unfold between the two and found himself shifting from worrying about his son to worrying about Chen Zemian.
How can you control someone else’s child like this?
Who can live like that?
Is this relationship even normal? Would Lu Zhuonian force him into something he didn’t want?
Unable to keep quiet, Lu Zizhen frowned and said, “You don’t need to eat medicinal food every day to stay healthy. Zhuonian, you’re being too controlling.”
Lu Zhuonian turned to him calmly. “He’s willing.”
Chen Zemian subtly shook his head.
Lu Zizhen: “…”
Lu Zhuonian turned back and looked down at Chen Zemian. “Tell him you like medicinal food. Three pumps of raspberry syrup.”
Chen Zemian immediately said, “I like it…”
A vein on Lu Zizhen’s forehead twitched. He slammed the table and shouted, “Lu Zhuonian, get out!”
Lu Zhuonian stood his ground.
Chen Zemian gave him a gentle push, and only then did he turn and leave.
After the housekeeper personally changed the tea, he bowed and stepped out, quietly closing the door to the flower hall behind him.
Lu Zizhen was silent for a long time before he finally said, “My son has always been hard on himself. From a young age, he demanded perfection in everything. Now that he’s grown, he seems to have it all—impeccable in every way.”
Chen Zemian was momentarily puzzled, but still praised sincerely, “Lu Shao is a child of destiny. Talented and rare—it’s only natural he’s impeccable.”
But Lu Zizhen shifted the tone. “He’s always succeeded. Always chased the top. And strangely, he always gets what he wants. His mother and I were surprised at first, but eventually… we got used to it.”
Chen Zemian didn’t know how to respond.
He couldn’t exactly tell Lu Zizhen, Your son is a Xiaolong Aotian, and I’m a Dalong Aotian. We’re both just lucky.
So he said nothing, just smiled faintly, playing the attentive guest, waiting for what came next.
Lu Zizhen continued, “With that kind of personality—and fortune—it’s inevitable. He’s developed a bit of a paranoid streak, a strong need to control things. Sometimes, it comes off as rude. I hope you can be understanding.”
And then it clicked for Chen Zemian.
Lu Zizhen had probably noticed the strange way Lu Zhuonian spoke to him—the shift in tone, the unfamiliar attitude—and was now trying to smooth things over. He was covering for his son, rationalizing the behavior, and subtly pushing off the blame.
Chen Zemian smiled and said, “It’s alright, Mr. Lu. That’s just how Lu Shao and I usually interact. I’m used to it.”
Lu Zizhen studied him a moment, then said, “You…”
Chen Zemian tilted his head. “Yes?”
“He still hasn’t surpassed me.” Lu Zizhen’s tone turned solemn as he handed over a gilded business card. “This has my direct line and the Lu family hotline. Someone answers 24/7. If you’re ever in trouble, don’t hesitate to call.”
Chen Zemian accepted the card.
Lu Zizhen’s expression remained serious, clearly waiting for a response.
Chen Zemian hesitated. “Thank you, Mr. Lu?”
Seeing that Chen Zemian hadn’t caught on, Lu Zizhen finally asked bluntly, “This relationship between you two… is it voluntary?”
Chen Zemian was caught off guard. “What kind of relationship?”
Lu Zizhen didn’t answer, only lowered his eyes and took a sip of tea.
Chen Zemian scratched his head, unsure whether Lu Zizhen truly knew something or was bluffing. He instinctively glanced toward the window of the flower hall.
Lu Zhuonian met his gaze for just a second. Then, seeing the signal for help, he didn’t hesitate. He raised his hand, opened the door, and stepped inside.
Lu Zizhen’s expression darkened instantly.
Lu Zhuonian had always been self-disciplined, respectful, never rude. This was the first time he had entered uninvited while his father was in the middle of a conversation.
Lu Zizhen said coldly, “Did I tell you to come in?”
Lu Zhuonian stood protectively in front of Chen Zemian. “Dad, if you have questions, ask me. Don’t put him on the spot.”
Lu Zizhen let out a sharp laugh. “I’m putting him on the spot?”
Lu Zhuonian didn’t back down. “Weren’t you? You brought him in here without a word. Is that appropriate?”
Lu Zizhen shot back, “I know a little about what’s going on between you two. But before you ask why I brought him here, have you reflected on your own actions? He just had a stomach issue, yet you used that as an excuse to keep him home. You’ve not only detained him, but even neglected your work. Is that appropriate?”
Lu Zhuonian didn’t argue, but his expression made it clear—he felt no guilt.
Chen Zemian glanced between the two. He tried to defuse the situation, saying gently, “Lu Shao didn’t lock me up.”
Lu Zizhen gave him a sharp look. “Besides today, when was the last time you went out?”
Chen Zemian hesitated. “Half… half a month ago?”
Lu Zizhen continued, “I asked the driver why you didn’t attend the business dinner yesterday.”
Chen Zemian couldn’t say because I stayed up too late fooling around with your son. So he mumbled, “I overslept.”
Lu Zizhen gave a small chuckle. “And the last dinner?”
Chen Zemian recalled that night. He had dressed up to go out, but Lu Zhuonian had suddenly gotten sick. He hadn’t even managed to change back. They’d ended up treating the illness right there on the living room sofa.
They’d even used a tie… the same tie that had been around his neck—later over his eyes.
Lu Zizhen knew his son too well. “Think carefully. Every time you try to go out, don’t you always run into some sudden… ‘emergency’?”
Chen Zemian froze. Then turned to look at Lu Zhuonian.
Lu Zhuonian’s face remained unreadable. He didn’t offer a single word of explanation.
Lu Zizhen couldn’t let this continue.
He knew his son’s tendencies—his obsessive streak, his desire to control. He had always indulged him, as long as the cost could be measured in money or technology.
But not with people.
Not with feelings.
Temporary control only led to lasting damage.
He feared not only that his son might hurt Chen Zemian, but more that he’d destroy himself for love.
Until today, he’d only thought his son was interested in Chen Zemian. That he’d refused to go abroad because of him. He’d considered persuading them, not interfering.
But he hadn’t expected his son to be this far gone.
Trying to control how much syrup someone put in a drink?
Desire for control didn’t fade with satisfaction. It only grew stronger.
Now, he dared to barge into a private conversation. If he wasn’t stopped now, who knew what the future would hold?
Lu Zizhen took a deep breath, suppressed his emotions, and said with deliberate calm, “I apologize to you on behalf of Zhuonian—for everything that’s happened. This is his nature, and he does have certain… mental health issues. Things will likely get worse. Whether you were willing at first or were misled, that doesn’t matter now. Today, you can reconsider.”
Chen Zemian blinked, confused. “Reconsider what?”
“If you regret it,” Lu Zizhen said, “I can send you away. Any time.”
“Dad!” Lu Zhuonian said sharply.
Lu Zizhen calmly placed his teacup down. The soft clink of porcelain echoed on the table. “Let him speak for himself.”
Lu Zhuonian fell silent.
And for the first time… he wanted to know what Chen Zemian would choose.
Chen Zemian turned to him. “Every time I want to go out, something else comes up. Are those coincidences… or did you do it on purpose?”
Lu Zhuonian’s jaw clenched. His lips curved slightly. “Since I stopped taking my medication, my emotional regulation has worsened. Every time I know you’re going out alone, I get upset. There were times… I really couldn’t control myself.”
“And the other times?” Chen Zemian asked.
“I could control myself,” Lu Zhuonian admitted. “But I didn’t.”
Chen Zemian turned toward Lu Zizhen, stunned.
Lu Zizhen gave him a slight nod—encouraging him. No matter what he said, he would have his support. He wouldn’t let his son keep making the same mistake just because he was his son.
Lu Zhuonian’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he said, “Chen Zemian, this is the truth. My father’s right. I just want to keep you close. I don’t like it when you go out alone. What do you have to say?”
Chen Zemian lowered his head, fingers toying with the drawstring of his hoodie. He whispered:
“Then… then I’ll just go out less.”
*****
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