Cold CEO (12)

In the eyes of high school seniors, the concept of time simply didn't exist. Exams, quizzes, and days flashed by, and when they were busy, they didn't notice the passage of time. Qi Yan could now walk a few steps freely. During this time, Cassie was very busy, and he didn't want to disturb her, so he didn't share these things with her. He wanted to wait for the right moment to surprise her with everything.

However, Qi Yan overlooked one thing.

One crucial thing.

With only one month left until the college entrance exam, Cassie was still attending classes at school, while Qi Yan was working in his room. Someone rang the doorbell at the Qi residence. It was Cassie's father. He still carried a briefcase, looking like he had just gotten off a plane, dusty and disheveled. Seeing Qi Yan in a wheelchair, Cassie's father paused for a moment, then smiled, "Qi Yan? Long time no see."

He invited Cassie's father inside and poured him a cup of tea.

Cassie's father was quite surprised. He and Qi Yan's grandfather, both elders, could exchange a few jokes. Facing this young junior, he always felt a kind of leader-subordinate relationship. Qi Yan, who used to be addressed with much formality, was now pouring tea for him personally. The change in attitude was too fast, and he was really puzzled.

He didn't immediately agree and said, "No need to be so polite. I still need to go to the company and can't stay too long. Is Cassie still in school? I came over to say hello and will pick her up on Sunday."

He had just gotten off the plane and, as soon as he looked at the schedule, realized it was Friday. At this time, Cassie was still in class. So, he came to the Qi residence to say hello first.

Qi Yan's face didn't show any panic, "Are you in a hurry to take Cassie back?"

Cassie's father said, "It depends on Cassie's wishes. I will come over on Sunday. Now, Cassie is studying, and her things are here. I don't want to disturb her."

He noticed that Qi Yan also addressed his daughter as "Cassie," with a specific context of intimacy. It seemed that Cassie was living well in the Qi family. He thought with satisfaction.

Qi Yan calmly asked, "Then, do you have time to have lunch tomorrow and chat with Grandpa? He really wants to catch up with you."

Cassie's father pondered for a moment and nodded, "Alright, I'll come by tomorrow noon. I'll be leaving now."

After saying these words, he hurriedly left.

Qi Yan squinted slightly.

Cassie's family hadn't appeared for too long, and he almost forgot that the girl in his house was just staying temporarily. Staying temporarily meant that one day she would leave.

He needed to find a reason to let her stay openly and honestly.

Cassie felt particularly tired today.

If this was the real life of a high school senior, after experiencing it once, she didn't want to experience it a second time. The fear controlled by the sea of questions and test papers was too profound, more memorable than any other experience.

During this time in the car, no one had disturbed her. After a short nap, she had to immerse herself in new studies.

She had gotten used to the life with Qi Yan by her side. When she napped in the car, her head would naturally rest on his thigh.

Qi Yan didn't remind her. He just let her lie down, absentmindedly stroking her long hair.

She was most obedient when feeling sleepy.

Even if hugged, she wouldn't resist.

Afterward, Cassie changed into her bunny-eared pajamas and brought today's math test paper to find Qi Yan.

Qi Yan sat in front of the desk, lost in thought. When he saw her, he resumed a gentle smile.

"Come here," he said.

The young girl obediently sat down beside him.

He touched her head and stood up.

Yes, he stood up—without the support of a wheelchair.

He walked alone to the side of the bed, without using a wheelchair or crutches. After picking up his phone, he walked back.

Cassie blinked her eyes, watching him without blinking.

"I can walk now," he smiled slightly, "my legs have recovered." The rehabilitation process went very smoothly, and it took much less time than he had imagined. Soon, he would be able to resume a normal life, albeit a bit slower at first. Over time, he would become more and more like an ordinary person.

At this moment, Qi Yan's eyes carried a gentle smile, reflecting only the figure of one person. Without waiting for him to speak, Cassie proactively pounced on him. Her arms circled around his waist, and her fuzzy head buried itself in his embrace. Qi Yan lowered his head, placing a calm and restrained kiss on her forehead.

Take it slow, take it slow—don't scare her.

He reminded himself.

Cassie blinked, not rejecting the kiss.

"Will you stay here before the college entrance exam?" His voice was deep, patiently coaxing his prey. The warm breath lingered on her neck.

Cassie hesitated, "Um... probably?"

She enjoyed the feeling of living in the Qi family's villa. The presence of the housekeeper was not prominent, yet everything was well-managed in silence. The caretaker was diligent and capable, preparing various dishes in various styles that suited her taste, whether it was breakfast or supper.

Grandpa Qi didn't spend much time at home, but he treated her like his own granddaughter, always smiling when he saw her and listening to her share little things in life.

And then there was Qi Yan.

Although he always wore a cold expression, as if he was not interested in anything, he unintentionally showed her all his tenderness.

The system always had such people.

She was willing to respond to such feelings.

"Then stay," Qi Yan gently stroked the stray hair falling on her shoulder, "accompany me in rehabilitation, okay?"

Cassie lowered her head and rubbed against him softly, "Mm."

After the embrace, Cassie continued to focus on her math problems. Qi Yan paced back and forth in the room. He enjoyed this feeling, being alone with her as if everything else in the world had vanished, leaving only the two of them.

But today, she was just too tired and sleepy. When Qi Yan walked over to her, he found that she had already fallen asleep.

She was petite and light. When he applied a little force, he effortlessly lifted her. His legs suddenly bore the weight and seemed a bit strenuous. Qi Yan's expression turned cold, frowning tightly as he placed her on the bed.

The girl was exceptionally obedient when she was sleepy. When being held, she would proactively loop her arms around his neck, sinking into the softness behind her. Then, she would release her hands, instinctively reaching for the blanket.

She was used to sleeping while holding onto something. With her hands empty, she always felt uncomfortable.

Qi Yan stared at her intently.

His expression was very gentle, his black eyes as dark as ink, rolling with emotions only he knew.

In the end, he bent down, covering her soft lips.

Yet, fearing to startle her, he punished her with a bite on her lips, gentle and restrained.

There was plenty of time ahead.