CHAPTER 18: DANGER IN THE DARK

Si Kong's footsteps echoed through the hallway, each step weighed down by the complexity of his emotions. The burn of Nuan Nuan's gaze lingered, a constant reminder of the vulnerability he dared not acknowledge.

Unbeknownst to them, a figure watched from the shadows, a sly smile spreading across their face.

Chenheng's summons pierced the air, demanding Si Kong's immediate presence.

Upon entering, Chenheng's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. A glass of wine swirled in his hand, the liquid crimson reflecting the malevolence in his eyes.

"What do you think you're doing with my woman, Si Kong?" Chenheng's voice dripped venom.

Si Kong's eyes widened, shock etched on his face. "Master, I—"

"Don't play dumb," Chenheng snarled. "I don't want to see you near her again."

Si Kong bowed, his words measured. "Master, I assured her I'm not a kind person, just as dangerous as you."

Chenheng's suspicion dissipated, replaced by laziness. He cupped his face, eyes glinting. "Good. Ensure she receives no help from anyone."

As Si Kong turned to leave, Chenheng's cold voice halted him.

"Send 10 guards to the Gu mansion. Assassinate Patriarch Gu."

Si Kong's step faltered, a fleeting hesitation before regaining composure. He departed, leaving Chenheng to sip his wine, eyes fixed ahead.

The darkness outside seemed to deepen, as if sensing Chenheng's malevolence.

Si Kong's face remained impassive, but his heart recoiled. Another life to claim, another soul to crush.

In the shadows, the figure watched, smirking.

Chenheng's cruelty knew no bounds.

As Si Kong vanished into the night, the weight of his emotions threatened to consume him.

His footsteps echoed, a lonely rhythm.

The night swallowed him whole.