Liang Zheng's tears slowed as Jian Yu's words washed over him. "Why did you leave me?" he whispered, his voice barely audible.
Jian Yu's eyes filled with remorse. "I didn't leave by choice. I was consumed by grief and anger after your passing."
Liang Zheng's gaze searched Jian Yu's face. "What happened?" he asked, his curiosity getting the better.
Jian Yu took a deep breath, the memories flooding back. "After you...passed away, my world crumbled. I wanted to die alongside you," he confessed, his voice cracking.
Liang Zheng's heart ached, feeling the depth of Jian Yu's sorrow.
"But I couldn't," Jian Yu continued, determination etched on his face. "I sought revenge on those who wronged you. Eunuch Wei, who betrayed you, paid for his treachery."
Liang Zheng's eyes widened, shocked by the revelation.
"I rescued Ling Yao, Queen Mei's boyfriend," Jian Yu said. "Together, with Zheng Jin, we fought against the usurpers."
Liang Zheng's mind reeled, piecing together the events.
"We won," Jian Yu whispered, a hint of pride in his voice. "Ling Yao found his father, and Queen Mei wed Prince Ling Yao. They conquered and ruled Qing City."
Liang Zheng's thoughts swirled, imagining the triumph.
"But I didn't get to enjoy the victory," Jian Yu said, his voice barely audible. "I attended a banquet and was poisoned. That's how I died...and transmigrated into this body."
Liang Zheng's eyes locked onto Jian Yu's. "You avenged me," he said, gratitude filling his heart.
Jian Yu nodded, his gaze burning with intensity.
Liang Zheng's voice trembled. "And now?"
Jian Yu's smile was gentle. "Now, I've found you again. In this life, we can love each other without fear."
Liang Zheng's heart swelled.
"But promise me," Jian Yu whispered, his lips inches from Liang Zheng's. "Our past remains secret."
Liang Zheng nodded.
As they embraced, Liang Zheng asked, "How did I end up here?"
Jian Yu's smile was enigmatic. "Perhaps fate gave us another chance."
Their lips met in a tender kiss.
In that moment, they vowed to cherish their second chance.
As they pulled back from the kiss, Liang Zheng's eyes sparkled. "I've missed you," he whispered.
Jian Yu's smile softened. "I've missed you more."
Their hands intertwined, they strolled through the quiet streets.
Days turned into weeks, and their love grew.
They shared laughter, stories, and dreams.
Liang Zheng found solace in Jian Yu's arms.
Jian Yu's heart swelled with love.
Together, they explored the city.
Their love became their sanctuary.
One evening, as they sat on a hill overlooking the city, Jian Yu turned to Liang Zheng.
"Liang Zheng," he said, his voice low and husky.
"Yes?" Liang Zheng replied, his eyes locked onto Jian Yu's.
"I love you," Jian Yu whispered.
Liang Zheng's heart skipped a beat.
"I love you too," he replied.
Their lips met in a tender kiss.
The city lights twinkled below.
Their love shone brighter.
Jian Yu's eyes sparkled with excitement as he invited Liang Zheng (Kim Liang) to his house. "Liang Zheng, I want you to meet my family," he said, his voice filled with warmth.
Liang Zheng hesitated, unsure about meeting Jian Yu's family. What if they discovered his true identity?
"Please, Liang Zheng," Jian Yu coaxed. "They'll love you."
Liang Zheng's heart skipped a beat. "Your family?" he repeated, unsure.
Jian Yu nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, my mom and Jin Yu, my twin brother. They'll love you."
Liang Zheng's cheeks flushed. No one had ever invited him to meet their family before.
"Are you sure?" Liang Zheng asked, hesitant.
Jian Yu's smile reassured him. "Absolutely. They'll see how amazing you are."
Liang Zheng's resistance crumbled. "Okay," he agreed.
Jian Yu's face lit up. "Great! I'll pick you up at 5 pm tomorrow."
The next day, Liang Zheng's nerves fluttered as he waited for Jian Yu.
When Jian Yu arrived, Liang Zheng's heart calmed.
"You look nervous," Jian Yu teased.
Liang Zheng smiled. "A little."
Jian Yu took his hand. "Don't be. My family will adore you."
Liang Zheng relented, agreeing to visit.
At Jian Yu's house, his mother warmly welcomed Liang Zheng.
"Mom, this is Kim Liang," Jian Yu said.
Jin Yu chimed in, "And he's changed, Mom. He's not the bully he used to be."
Liang Zheng's cheeks flushed.
Jian Yu's mother smiled. "Welcome, Kim Liang. We're glad to have you."
Kim Liang! We've heard so much about you."
Liang Zheng's heart swelled.
Jin Yu chimed in, "Yeah, bro's been talking nonstop about you."
Liang Zheng's cheeks burned.
As they sat down for dinner, Liang Zheng felt at ease.
Jian Yu's family was kind and genuine.
And then,Liang Zheng's phone rang.
"Excuse me," he said, answering.
His assistant's voice was urgent. "Chairman Kim is back. He's asking for you."
Liang Zheng's heart skipped a beat.
"I'm with a friend," he replied, forwarding his location. "Send a driver to pick me up."
Jian Yu's eyes met Liang Zheng's, concern flickering.
After dinner, Jian Yu walked Liang Zheng out.
"Thank you for coming," Jian Yu whispered.
Liang Zheng smiled. "Thanks for having me."
As they bid goodbye, Jian Yu's mother called out, "Come back soon, Kim Liang!"
Liang Zheng nodded, his heart full.
Jian Yu and Liang Zheng shared a secret glance.
Their love remained hidden, but their hearts beat as one.
As Liang Zheng left with his driver, Jian Yu returned inside.
"Mom, Jin Yu, I'm glad you liked Kim Liang," Jian Yu said.
His mother smiled. "He seems like a good person."
Jin Yu nodded. "Yeah, he's changed."
Little did they know, Liang Zheng was more than just a changed person.
He was Jian Yu's soulmate.
Chairman Kim's return signaled a new era.
Liang Zheng's thoughts swirled.
What did his father's return mean for him?
For Jian Yu? Their love?
As Liang Zheng entered his luxurious home, he was greeted by the familiar sight of his father, Chairman Kim, sitting on the couch, sipping wine and scrolling through his iPad. The dimly lit room was filled with the aroma of fine wine and the soft hum of classical music.
"Father," Liang Zheng said, with a slight bow, trying to hide his apprehension.
Chairman Kim looked up, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Ah, Kim Liang! Come, sit down." He patted the couch beside him.
Liang Zheng obeyed, his mind racing with worries. What did his father want? Had he discovered his secret relationship with Jian Yu?
"I've been reviewing your academic performance," Chairman Kim said, his eyes shining with pride. "You're doing exceptionally well, son. I'm impressed."
Liang Zheng's expression remained neutral, hiding his inner turmoil. In his past life as Crown Prince Liang Zheng, he had mastered every subject, every skill. His education had been rigorous, preparing him for rulership.
"The CSAT exams are approaching," Chairman Kim continued, his voice filled with expectation. "Do you think you'll need a tutor? You must enter one of the best universities in the country. Our family's legacy depends on it."
Liang Zheng's thoughts drifted to his past life, where he had excelled in the imperial exams, securing his position as crown prince. He had been born to lead, to rule.
"No, Father," Liang Zheng replied confidently, drawing on his past experiences. "I won't need a tutor. I'm well-prepared."
Chairman Kim's eyes narrowed slightly, scrutinizing his son. "You're certain?"
Liang Zheng nodded, his heart pounding. "Yes, Father. I won't disappoint you."
Chairman Kim smiled, satisfied. "Excellent. I expect nothing but the best from you, Kim Liang. Our company's future relies on your success."
Liang Zheng's heart sank, the weight of his father's expectations pressing down on him. He felt trapped, caught between his duty to his family and his love for Jian Yu.
As he met his father's gaze, Liang Zheng knew he couldn't reveal his true feelings.
Not yet.
Chairman Kim's voice broke the silence. "I have a business dinner tomorrow night. Attend it with me."
Liang Zheng nodded, his mind racing with ways to escape.
The next evening, Liang Zheng accompanied his father to the business dinner, held at an upscale restaurant in the city's financial district. As they entered, Liang Zheng was greeted by familiar faces - influential business leaders, politicians, and socialites.
Chairman Kim introduced Liang Zheng with pride. "My son, Kim Liang, future successor of our company."
Liang Zheng smiled politely, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries.
During dinner, Liang Zheng's father dominated the conversation, discussing mergers, acquisitions, and market trends. Liang Zheng listened intently, feigning interest.
Suddenly, a guest caught Liang Zheng's attention - Eunseo, a renowned entrepreneur and Jian Yu's cousin.
Eunseo's eyes locked onto Liang Zheng, a hint of recognition flashing.
"Kim Liang," Eunseo said, approaching him. "Long time no see."
Liang Zheng's heart skipped a beat.
"Eunseo," he replied, trying to sound casual.
Chairman Kim raised an eyebrow. "You know each other?"
Eunseo smiled. "We've met at a charity event. Kim Liang was very impressive."
Liang Zheng's cheeks flushed.
As the evening progressed, Liang Zheng found himself drawn to Eunseo's conversations, discussing innovation and social responsibility.
But he couldn't shake off the feeling that Eunseo knew more about him than she let on.
As they departed, Eunseo whispered, "Take care, Kim Liang. Your secrets are safe with me."
Liang Zheng's heart sank.
What did Eunseo know? And what did she want?.
As soon as Liang Zheng entered his room, he pulled out his phone and dialed Jian Yu's number, his heart racing with anticipation.
"Hello, my Mochi," Liang Zheng said, using the sweet nickname he reserved for Jian Yu.
But instead of Jian Yu's warm voice, Jin Yu's surprised tone answered.
"Kim Liang? What's up with you, calling my bro by a sweet name?" Jin Yu asked, his voice laced with shock and curiosity.
Liang Zheng's heart skipped a beat.
"Uh, Jin Yu," Liang Zheng stuttered. "I, uh, I didn't mean to—"
"Wait, are you dating my bro now?" Jin Yu asked, his voice filled with excitement.
Liang Zheng hesitated, unsure how to respond.
"Jin Yu, please," Liang Zheng whispered. "Don't tell anyone."
Jin Yu's laughter echoed through the phone. "Oh, man! I knew it! You two are adorable!"
Liang Zheng's face burned.
"Jin Yu, seriously," Liang Zheng pleaded. "Keep this a secret."
"Fine, fine," Jin Yu agreed. "But you owe me an explanation. What's going on between you and my bro?"
Liang Zheng took a deep breath.
"We...we met, and...and things just clicked," Liang Zheng said, trying to downplay their relationship.
Jin Yu squealed. "I knew it! You're perfect for each other!"
Liang Zheng chuckled.
"Thanks, Jin Yu. But please, keep this between us."
"Got it," Jin Yu promised. "But I want details. Meet me tomorrow?"
Liang Zheng agreed.
As they ended the call, Liang Zheng couldn't shake off the feeling that Jin Yu's discovery would change everything.
Jin Yu's mind raced.
He couldn't believe his bro was dating Kim Liang!
He had to keep this secret.
But he was dying to know more!
The next day, Jin Yu met Liang Zheng at a quiet café.
"Spill," Jin Yu said, sipping his coffee.
Liang Zheng smiled.
"We met, and...I don't know, Jin Yu. It just feels right."
Jin Yu grinned.
"I'm happy for you guys."
Liang Zheng's eyes locked onto Jin Yu's.
"Thanks, Jin Yu. That means a lot."
Their conversation flowed easily.
Jin Yu was overjoyed.
His bro had found love.
And he was determined to support them.
As Jin Yu and Liang Zheng chatted, Liang Zheng suddenly asked, "Where's Jian Yu? I called him last night, but you answered."
Jin Yu's expression turned serious. "He's...uh...he's dealing with some family stuff."
Liang Zheng's eyes narrowed. "What kind of family stuff?"
Jin Yu hesitated. "Eunseo's been pushing him to take over the family business."
Liang Zheng's grip on his cup tightened.
"What? That's ridiculous. Jian Yu wants to pursue his own path."
Jin Yu nodded. "I know, right? But Eunseo's been relentless."
Liang Zheng's mind raced.
He had to see Jian Yu.
Ensure he was okay.
"Take me to him," Liang Zheng said, determination etched on his face.
Jin Yu nodded.
As they arrived at Jian Yu's location, Liang Zheng's heart pounded.
What would he find?
Would Jian Yu be okay?
They entered the elegant mansion, and Liang Zheng spotted Jian Yu, standing by the window, staring out at the city.
"Jian Yu," Liang Zheng called softly.
Jian Yu turned, his eyes locking onto Liang Zheng's.
Relief washed over Liang Zheng.
Jian Yu looked unharmed.
But his eyes told a different story.
A story of struggle.
Of conflict.
Liang Zheng approached him.
"What's going on?" Liang Zheng asked, his voice filled with concern.
Jian Yu sighed.
"Eunseo wants me to take over the family business. But I refuse."
Liang Zheng's arms enveloped Jian Yu.
"I'm here for you," Liang Zheng whispered.
Jian Yu's eyes closed.
"I know," Jian Yu replied. "I just need time to figure things out."
Liang Zheng held him tighter.
"We'll face this together."
As Liang Zheng held Jian Yu, Jin Yu cleared his throat, gaining their attention.
"Uh, bro, we need to talk," Jin Yu said, his voice laced with a mix of amusement and concern.
Jian Yu's eyes widened.
"What's going on, Jin Yu?" Jian Yu asked.
Jin Yu crossed his arms.
"I know about you and Kim Liang," Jin Yu said, a sly grin spreading.
Jian Yu's face turned beet red.
"How...how did you know?" Jian Yu stuttered.
Liang Zheng's grip on Jian Yu tightened.
"Jin Yu, please," Liang Zheng said.
Jin Yu chuckled.
"I answered Kim Liang's call last night. He called you 'Mochi.'"
Jian Yu's eyes darted to Liang Zheng.
"I'm sorry," Liang Zheng whispered.
Just then, Eunseo walked out of the adjacent room.
"Actually, I've known for a while now," Eunseo said, her voice calm.
Jian Yu's jaw dropped.
"Eunseo, how?" Jian Yu asked.
Eunseo smiled.
"I've seen the way you look at each other. And Kim Liang's phone call last night confirmed it."
Liang Zheng's eyes locked onto Eunseo.
"What do you want?" Liang Zheng asked.
Eunseo's expression turned serious.
"I want you both to be happy. But also, I need to protect our family's interests."
Jin Yu stepped forward.
"Eunseo, don't make us suffer for your ambitions."
Eunseo's gaze softened.
"I won't hurt them, Jin Yu. But I need assurances."
Liang Zheng's voice firm.
"We'll handle our relationships ourselves."
Eunseo nodded.
"Fine. But remember, your choices have consequences."
As Eunseo walked away, Jian Yu turned to Liang Zheng.
"What do we do now?"
Liang Zheng's eyes locked onto Jian Yu's.
"We face this together."