CHAPTER 26: THE PAST

Li Mei wrapped her arms around Chenheng's waist from behind, her smile radiant. The man turned, his gentle expression a testament to his devotion. "Ah, Mei, what brings you here? I told you I'd be busy today; you didn't have to come to my workplace."

She pouted, her lips curling into an adorable smile. "Chenheng, I missed you. I couldn't bear not seeing you since yesterday."

Chenheng's eyes softened as he slid his hand around her waist, pulling her close. "Ah, Mei, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have neglected you."

She rubbed her stomach and he knew he had to make it up to her with lunch.

As they strolled to a five-Michelin-star restaurant, their affection was palpable. After dinner, Chenheng's expression turned serious, his eyes still holding a hint of gentleness.

"Ah, Mei, I worry about your safety. My enemies might target you to get to me. I want to protect and dote on you always.

Li Mei's smile sparkled, her eyes shining. "Chenheng, I'm a grown woman; I can take care of myself. No one would dare harm Pei Chenheng's woman."

Chenheng's grip on her hand tightened. "But seriously, Mei, I must ensure your safety. I won't let my enemies harm you."

"Chenheng, you can't keep me confined forever," Li Mie teased.

"Fine, I'll assign four female bodyguards to watch over you. That way, I'll know you're safe."

Li Mei's smile curved like a crescent. "I'll take care of myself."

But fate had other plans.

"Chenheng!" Li Mei's scream pierced the air, accompanied by coughing. "Chenheng, save me!"

Her soft voice echoed through the house, filled with desperation.

Chenheng sprinted into the burning building, smoke engulfing him. He called out, "Mei! Where are you?"

Flames obstructed his path, and the scorching heat threatened to consume him.

Finally, he found her. But it was too late.

As the paramedics carried Li Mei's disfigured body into the ambulance, Chenheng's face contorted in anguish.

Like a crazed man, he lunged forward, grasping her fragile face that looked like it would crack with the slightest force. "Ah, Mei, please stand up. I'll never leave your side, I promise."

Si Kong restrained him as the ambulance drove away.

Chenheng collapsed to his knees, overcome with grief. His body shook, and tears streamed down his face.

"No... Mei... my Mei..." he wailed, his voice cracking.

The sound of his own screams echoed in his mind, a haunting reminder of his failure to protect the one he loved.