Chapter Five

Aunt Lang, the head housekeeper, comprehended the situation to some extent, prompting her to hasten to Nathalia's bathroom to prepare a steaming bath for her. She made sure to inform the other housekeepers of what to prepare for dinner, making sure to include something that their young boss enjoyed to uplift her spirits. Having had an exhausting day, Nathalia quickly undressed and immersed herself in the hot water. The once colorless liquid turned milky white due to the paint on her skin. Without wasting much time, she emerged from the bath, appearing fresh and captivating in her pink pajamas adorned with charming illustrations of small bears. The most effective way for her to alleviate stress was by indulging in a comforting hot bath, sipping on chocolate tea, and losing herself in the pages of a light novel. Speaking of chocolate tea, she was just about to request a cup when Aunt Lang unexpectedly entered the room, holding a steaming cup of the beverage. Clearly, Aunt Lang was well aware of Nathalia's preferences and inclinations. Nathalia stretched out her hand, grabbing a random light novel from the nearby shelf. The time was four thirty in the afternoon when her laptop emitted a melodic sound, signifying an incoming call.

Lu Min persistently insisted, despite her hanging up for the fifth time. She had no other option but to power down her laptop completely. Letting out a sigh of relief, she hurried towards her novel, attempting to forget the day's events.

Her bedroom, adorned in shades of white, pink, and orange, showcased a prominent king-sized pink bed in the center, along with a white sofa.

In comparison to the Hu family, the Li family estate was three times larger. Guarded by military personnel, it boasted state-of-the-art surveillance equipment, including numerous cameras.

In the parking lot of the Li family estate, a chilling atmosphere engulfed the surroundings. Standing amidst the collection of cars, which were distinctively colored in two contrasting hues, was an irresistibly handsome man. Gazing down at Nik, he pondered the appropriate punishment for his failure that day. His silvery white hair danced in the cold breeze, while he slyly tucked one hand in his pocket and held a cigarette in the other, taking intermittent puffs. This sight exuded an alluring charm, yet the person trembling on their knees did not share the same sentiment.

"Boss, I apologize. I never expected her to possess self-defense skills," Nik stuttered, perspiring and his hands quivering.

"Who authorized you to speak?" thundered his boss, sending chills down his spine.

With an air of aristocracy, his boss spoke those few words, flicking ashes into the ashtray. "You were defeated by someone insignificant."

Insignificant? How could anyone classify such beauty as insignificant? Nik could only suppress that thought, keeping it locked within him. When he had demolished her car, he stole a quick glance at the lady, finding her adorable.

"Do you want to lose your manhood or your fingers?" Li asked, with a sinister undertone.

What did that question even mean? If Nik was sweating before, now his skin resembled flowing streams of tears. Nik was not as handsome as his boss; he possessed brown, completely shaven hair and a muscular physique. As per Li's regulations, he was dressed in black pants and a white T-shirt.

"Please, boss, I'm deeply sorry."

"From this day forward, you are nothing but insignificant to me," in other words, Nik was fired. Boss Li departed, enveloped in his icy demeanor.

Upon reaching the doorstep, his cold expression softened. He gently pushed the door open, discreetly closing it behind him like a secret agent.

"Daddy's home!" squealed a young girl.

Li's failure to become a prominent figure in the mafia could be attributed solely to the presence of a certain individual.

His primary goal revolved around providing a comfortable environment for his young cousin, who regarded him as her father.

With excitement, she sprinted towards Li, embracing him tightly as she leaped onto his frame.

"Father, let us proceed to the dining room for our evening meal!" she exclaimed, gesturing towards the entrance.

Li Mei, daughter of Li Xiangyi and Gu Ghongi, possessed vibrant red hair, charming emerald green eyes, and a pristine white princess gown.

Regrettably, her mother had passed away during her infancy.

The joyful expressions on Mei's face clearly indicated a day filled with delight, which prompted Li to initiate a conversation by tuning in to the small radio.

In vivid detail, she recounted her activities throughout the day, briefly pausing as the meals were brought to their table.

Aside from Mei, Li harbored a strong aversion towards the color red.

He refused to bring harm to the girl's treasured looks.

"Father, have you given any thought to my upcoming birthday?" she inquired eagerly.

"Naturally, my darling princess, although you are already beyond adorable. Perhaps a new residence would suffice as your gift?" he suggested.

"No," she responded, "I already possess a room filled with dolls."

"What about a newfound source of laughter?" he proposed.

Li exhibited an unexpectedly gentle demeanor towards the young girl, lifting her up and settling her comfortably on his lap, eliciting bursts of laughter as he playfully tickled her tummy.

Who could have fathomed that such a notorious figure would radiate such warmth?

The two sat down and were promptly served an array of sumptuous dishes.

Li spoon-fed the young lady a serving of porridge, despite her insistence that she could feed herself at the age of nine, her adorable voice reverberating in his ears, causing him to chuckle involuntarily.

If it meant safeguarding this cherished little girl, he would willingly transform into a fierce brute.

"Daddy, I believe I have figured out what I desire for my birthday," she declared, descending a small hill and flashing a radiant smile at Li.