Chapter 19: The Era of Living Together (Part One)

Shaking her head, Chen Aijia cast aside the sudden, fanciful thoughts that had sprung up in her mind. She sidestepped the topic, certain that as time went on, she would discern whether the man surnamed Yang was a dragon or a worm; her eyes weren’t just ornaments for dazzling others.

“Well then, let’s move on to the second topic for today. It’s the main reason I came to find you.” Her pale, delicate arms rested on the table, reflecting a jade-like scenery. With a finger tracing lightly across the surface, she lowered her gaze and spoke calmly, “From today onward, you’ll be living in my house.”

Yang Changfeng nearly choked on his own saliva.

Living together?

No way, surely not? We’re not that familiar!

Chen Aijia’s expression was cool and aloof; she showed no embarrassment, perfectly aware of her intentions.

She wanted to keep him close, so he wouldn’t have the opportunity to plot anything else—like finding another chance to humiliate her in public.

And there was another motive: with Yang living in her house, she would have a ready-made shield. This man was outrageously audacious, always taking advantage, never suffering losses. Some people liked to resort to unconventional tactics to pursue her—well, let this even more audacious man handle them.

Chen Aijia admitted, without a shred of shame, that she intended to make use of Yang. He had gained so many benefits; surely he ought to put in some effort.

Moreover, since he seemed to have some ability—especially given his willingness to tangle with Wang Hu in the Security Department—it would be advantageous to keep him nearby, allowing her to keep tabs on the situation and maintain control.

There were many things she couldn’t influence in the company, but privately, she just might be able to.

Of course, these were reasons Chen Aijia had thought of only in that fleeting moment. Initially, her motive for inviting Yang Changfeng to live at her house was simply to constrain him, preventing him from causing trouble whenever and wherever he pleased.

Yang Changfeng calculated swiftly in his mind; living at Chen Aijia’s house had many benefits.

First, he wouldn’t need to find his own accommodation, saving a lot of money. In fact, if he shamelessly played his cards right, she might even cover all his needs—food, clothing, shelter, and transportation.

Next, sharing a roof with a peerless beauty seemed like a rather enjoyable prospect.

Still, Yang Changfeng had to be cautious. He knew Chen Aijia disliked him intensely, and now she was inviting him to live in her home. What was her plan?

He was sure there was an element of exploitation here, though he couldn’t quite pinpoint how.

To deal with Wang Hu? That was a joke. Chen Aijia had plenty of money; she could hire professionals—no need to bring home someone she disliked.

Wait, she had decided to invite him before realizing he had any use whatsoever. Just moments ago, she’d told Anya to spend weekends at her place as well.

That was clearly to avoid the awkwardness of a man and a woman alone together for extended periods, and to guard against any possible misbehavior from him.

So what was her real intention?

Yang Changfeng kept his composure. “That might not work. I have my own matters to attend to.”

“I won’t restrict your freedom. I’ll give you the keys to the house. And if you drive, you’re welcome to use any of my cars for errands. You can think of it as me providing you with a car until you leave the company and disappear from my sight. I won’t recall it or charge you any fees, unless you break the law.” Chen Aijia tapped the table, emphasizing her words. “Since you know the conflict with Wang Hu won’t be peaceful, you should understand that at least in my home, he has no power to cause trouble. This will save you a lot of energy to focus on other things, right?”

Yang Changfeng agreed.

But you think I’ll just move in with you at the drop of a hat? What about my dignity?

He believed he should maintain some reserve.

“And besides, I should at least know what you’re really thinking, shouldn’t I?” Yang Changfeng pressed her directly.

Chen Aijia shook her head, her brows raised in satisfaction—she’d finally made him uneasy; at least now he was wary of her.

Victory! This was a triumph of strategic significance in their ongoing contest.

“Then I won’t go,” Yang Changfeng said, a touch pridefully.

Chen Aijia smiled serenely. She’d spent much of the afternoon strategizing how to persuade him; now, she appeared completely at ease.

Holding back her glee, she replied with a bright smile, “At my house, you won’t need to spend a cent on food, clothing, or lodging—that’s a given. More importantly, if you refuse, certain people may explode in rage and introduce you to some ‘unreliable’ prospects, right? Actually, I…”

The moment he imagined his aunt’s furious reaction to his refusal to ‘cohabit’ with Chen Aijia, Yang Changfeng caved, nodding decisively. “Fine, I’ll take the hit. Let’s go—right now!”

Chen Aijia giggled, a bubbling sound escaping her lips. She felt she’d found yet another powerful weapon against Yang Changfeng.

So you’re troubled by your aunt as well? That makes things easier!

She could brandish this weapon whenever needed—it was quite handy!

In high spirits, her appetite soared. She signaled for the waiter, spoke a few words in French, all the while glancing at Yang Changfeng with a peculiar, triumphant smile.

Yang Changfeng chuckled inwardly. Did she really think he didn’t understand her machinations?

Chen Aijia had told the waiter that this gentleman found their food so delicious, he’d eaten her portion while she wasn’t looking, so she needed to reorder her meal. Did the waiter see any issue with that?

If you want to eat, just eat. Spend your own money. Why be so cautious? What’s so shameful about eating a lot?

Is it your family’s food?

Yang Changfeng grumbled internally—these wealthy people really cared about appearances.

The waiter played along, giving Yang Changfeng a polite but slightly teasing smile. He’d noticed this man’s attire was… well, very casual, and he didn’t understand French.

But criticizing a guest was out of the question.

The waiter maintained proper decorum; the smile alone was enough.

After the waiter left, Chen Aijia was gleeful inside. This country bumpkin! Seeing him beam politely at the waiter, she nearly burst out laughing. Did he really think the waiter was exchanging pleasantries with him?

She smiled as she “explained” to Yang Changfeng, “The waiter said, if you have any feedback about the restaurant’s food, you’re welcome to share, since your appetite is impressive and he can’t tell what you like or dislike.”

Only a fool would believe you!