The Shadow Queen and Her Little Bodyguard (GL) - Chapter 20

Yi Lanyin lay sprawled on the bed in her deep green nightgown from that day. She impatiently lifted her eyelids to glance at Yu Jing and, in her most serious tone, uttered a single word Clumsy.

What? Yu Jing raised her hand to wipe away the eye drops from her other cheek.

Yi Lanyin sat up, her long arm snatching the magazine from Yu Jing’s hand. She flipped through a couple of pages before tossing it aside. What’s wrong? Something worth faking tears over?

Yu Jing smiled sheepishly. You saw through me, huh?

Yi Lanyin sighed, rose from the bed, and pushed Yu Jing onto the stool in front of the vanity mirror. Crouching slightly, she brought her dazzlingly radiant face close to Yu Jing’s, her gaze unwavering. With the pad of her pinky finger, she gently traced the streak left by the eye drop on Yu Jing’s cheek. Come to the crew party Is that so? Yi Lanyin set down the air conditioner remote, her slender shoulder leaning against the wall. Maybe she’s just uncomfortable knowing strangers have been in the house.

Yu Jing organized the suitcases in the living room, arranging them neatly in a row before looking up. I’m not uncomfortable at all. I’m always like this.

Xiao Tao’s lips curled into a smile as she glanced at Yi Lanyin by the wall, then at Yu Jing by the sofa. She clapped her hands together. Alright, it’s settled then! Little Sister Yu will stay next door to Sister Yi. As for me, I have to return to B City tomorrow for work. So, Little Sister Yu, please take good care of Sister Yi while I’m gone.

So soon? Yi Lanyin frowned. How come? Is Pei Jiu going to wither away if he doesn’t see you every month?

Xiao Tao winked mischievously. Of course! President Pei values me highly.

Yi Lanyin scoffed and strode over to the sofa, plopping down. No matter how much he values you, you’re not allowed to betray me, got it?

Xiao Tao leaned over the sofa back and wrapped her arms around Yi Lanyin’s shoulders, grinning. Yes, yes, yes! Fairy Tao will follow Sister Yi’s lead for life! Not content with her own declaration of loyalty, she turned to Yu Jing, who was sitting innocently by the sofa’s end. What about you, Little Sister Yu?

What? Yu Jing asked, tilting her head in confusion. She had been so preoccupied with the idea of living next door to Yi Lan that she hadn’t been paying attention to their conversation.

I said, I’ll follow Sister Yi’s lead for life. What about you? Xiao Tao released Yi Lanyin’s shoulder and leaned against the sofa back, looking over at Yu Jing.

Yu Jing subtly shifted her gaze from Xiao Tao to Yi Lanyin. Yi Lanyin had turned away and was now pulling a still-sealed magazine from the side table. After carefully opening it, she flipped through a couple of pages, clearly uninterested in Yu Jing’s answer.

Yu Jing chuckled awkwardly. Me? I’m definitely loyal to the nation. If war calls, I’ll return without hesitation.

Before Xiao Tao could react, Yi Lanyin slammed the magazine shut, her brow furrowed. She tossed the pristine magazine onto the coffee table. What kind of garbage is this? It’s hideous. With that, she stood up. I’m going to catch up on sleep. Do as you please. And don’t bother packing my luggage.

Yu Jing blinked twice, rooted to the spot. As soon as Yi Lanyin’s door closed, she scurried over from the end of the sofa, picked up the magazine, and glanced at the cover. It was unmistakably Yi Lanyin herself. On the cover, Yi Lanyin wore a khaki trench coat that reached her ankles, paired with military boots. Her red hair and blue eyes stood out against her all-black leather gloves. From the tips of her hair to the soles of her boots, she exuded an overwhelming aura of cool confidence.

After studying the magazine for a moment, Yu Jing hurriedly raised it and asked Xiao Tao, who was organizing luggage behind her, Xiao Tao-senpai, since Teacher Yi doesn’t like this magazine, can I keep it? Before Xiao Tao could respond, she added, I saw an article in here specifically about military boots, and I’m really interested in it.

Xiao Tao glanced at Yu Jing’s utterly plain face, then at the magazine in her hand. After suppressing her frustration for a long moment, she finally gave in. Setting down the clothes she was folding, she strode over and sat beside Yu Jing. You really didn’t notice Sister Yi was angry?

Huh? Yu Jing turned her head, puzzled, toward the tightly closed door. I thought she just didn’t like the way the magazine looked?

Xiao Tao slapped Yu Jing’s magazine-holding hand, speechless. Don’t you have eyes? The moment the photographer’s proofs come in determines whether a magazine gets within a hundred meters of Sister Yi. This is the only magazine that’s made it into this house all year, and you’re still listening to her excuses?

So… you mean she’s angry with me? Yu Jing pointed at her own face, still confused.

Xiao Tao wore a look of utter exasperation, as if dealing with a hopeless case. Sister Yi is stubborn and proud, and you’re just too dense. Fine. She patted Yu Jing’s shoulder with mock solemnity. Don’t say I didn’t warn you Auntie comes back to China every Lunar New Year to reunite with Sister Yi for a few days. During that time, Sister Yi has to accompany Auntie to meet successful men from various industries. You’ll be spending the holiday hugging your worn-out military boots.

Even female celebrities need arranged dates? Yu Jing asked, surprised.

Most don’t, but Sister Yi… Xiao Tao sighed softly. Her family situation is complicated. I’d rather she tell you herself when she’s ready.

This half-revealed, half-concealed information only made Yu Jing more anxious. She put down the magazine and leaned closer to Xiao Tao, deliberately lowering her voice. Xiao Tao-qianbei, can I ask you something? Does… does Teacher Yi have a habit of, you know, paying for… younger men?

Hearing her hesitant question, Xiao Tao’s eyebrows shot up. Are you running a fever? With Sister Yi’s looks and figure, why would she need to pay anyone?

Yu Jing gasped inwardly. Xiao Tao was right, but Yu Jing had indeed taken money from someone. She couldn’t bring herself to admit it to Xiao Tao, her face flushing crimson with embarrassment.

Well, you know… everyone has… romantic needs.

Xiao Tao couldn’t stand it any longer. She waved her hand at Yu Jing. If you want romance, just go for it! Is that so hard for Sister Yi? Last year, she only appeared on one variety show, and by the time she got back to her hotel room that night, some minor celebrity was already knocking on her door.

Not hard at all.

Yu Jing’s face flushed crimson. She mumbled, Did she… open the door?

Sister Yi would be crazy to open it, Xiao Tao rolled her eyes. That guy only dared to knock because she hadn’t given him her contact information. Xiao Tao walked back to her suitcase, smiling at Yu Jing, who followed closely behind. If I were you, I’d go apologize to Sister Yi right now.

Yu Jing genuinely didn’t understand what she had done wrong. She circled Xiao Tao twice with the magazine in hand before sidling up to her. Senior Xiao Tao, could you… perhaps offer me some guidance?

Aiyo, no need for such formalities, Xiao Tao said, pressing down on Yu Jing’s hand, who was blocking the light. Seeing your sincerity, Fairy Tao will grant you a clear path. Xiao Tao glanced furtively at Yi Lanyin’s tightly closed door before pulling Yu Jing closer and whispering, Go knock now. Be enthusiastic, be sincere. Ignore whatever she says—just keep apologizing.

Just rely on enthusiasm and sincerity? Yu Jing asked, puzzled.

Look at you, Xiao Tao clicked her tongue. That might not work for others, but for us… She patted Yu Jing’s arm. We’re family. Just treat Sister Yi like a cat—pet her fur the right way.

Yu Jing grew even more confused. She squatted beside Xiao Tao, scratched her cheek, glanced at the magazine in her hand, and finally, with a burst of determination, stood up and bowed to Xiao Tao. Many thanks, Fairy Tao, for guiding my way.

Eh, no problem, no problem, Xiao Tao grinned, nodding toward Yi Lanyin’s door. Don’t worry about knocking. She definitely can’t sleep—she’s just sulking.

Clutching the magazine, Yu Jing walked to the door, her knuckles hovering just outside. After taking several deep breaths, she pursed her lips and knocked softly.

No response came from within. Yu Jing lowered her hand, pressed her ear against the door to listen for a moment, then turned back to Xiao Tao and whispered, Is she asleep?

Xiao Tao, kneeling amidst the pile of clothes, glared at her. Don’t you have a mouth? Just say you’re sorry!

Yu Jing nodded solemnly, turned back, and knocked again, calling out softly, Teacher Yi! Please forgive me, you’re so generous!

Still no response.

Defeated, Yu Jing walked back to Xiao Tao, knelt on the carpet, and began helping her hang up clothes. She must be asleep. She barely slept last night—it’s only natural she’d be tired.

Xiao Tao glanced sideways at Yu Jing. This Yu Jing, despite her tall, imposing stature and constant attempts to project an aloof, cool image, was actually a complete blockhead. Xiao Tao couldn’t bring herself to blame her, so she continued to fulfill her role as Yu Jing’s strategist. Have you ever read any CEO romance novels?

No, Yu Jing replied earnestly.

Xiao Tao bit her lower lip, paused for a few seconds, then stood up and rapped sharply on the door three times. Sister Yi, Little Sister Yu is crying!

Yu Jing, still kneeling amidst the pile of clothes, widened her eyes in shock. Xiao Tao strode over from the door, pulled out eye drops from her pocket, and swiftly administered two drops into Yu Jing’s eyes. Just as she withdrew the bottle, the tightly shut door cracked open a sliver.

Before Yu Jing could even process what was happening, Xiao Tao had already hoisted her up from the carpet by the armpits. This Fairy Tao has kindly paved the way for you. The rest is up to you.

Caught completely off guard, Yu Jing was abruptly shoved through the door by Xiao Tao. The freshly applied eye drops conveniently trickled down her cheek. She instinctively wiped at the moisture, just as Xiao Tao slammed the door shut from the other side.

In an instant, the room was left with only Yu Jing and Yi Lanyin.

Um, Yu Jing began, are you angry?

with me tonight? she asked, her eyes locked on Yu Jing’s.

Me? Yu Jing stiffened, a nervous tension gripping her.

Mm-hmm. Yi Lanyin straightened up, leaning her hips lightly against the vanity. The silk nightgown draped around her slender figure like a sheer veil, her bare feet planted on the floor, crimson nail polish gleaming on her rounded toes.

Then, Sheng Tian— Yu Jing began, but Yi Lanyin immediately snatched her phone from the table and pressed it into Yu Jing’s hand. Call him now. I’ll take you both out to eat.

Yu Jing lowered her head and quickly dialed Sheng Tian’s number. As she typed, a contact name popped up Sheng Tian (Yu Jing’s classmate).

She raised an eyebrow and looked up at Yi Lanyin. You… you saved Xiao Tian’s number like this?

Yi Lanyin tossed her long hair over her shoulder and glanced at her own phone screen. Without a flicker of emotion, she replied, Is that wrong? Isn’t he your classmate?

Yu Jing nodded. It made sense, she supposed. Saving her manager-boyfriend’s number would be rather odd. She pressed the call button, but when she looked up again, she found Yi Lanyin had unexpectedly slipped off her nightgown right in front of her. Two long, pale legs stood starkly before her, the sight momentarily freezing Yu Jing in place. Just then, the call connected. Sheng Tian’s voice sounded listless on the other end. Who’s this?

Yu Jing quickly turned her back and blurted out, Ah, it’s me. Teacher Yi’s phone. She wants you to come out to eat. Her voice dropped to a whisper, as if afraid of being overheard.

Are you sneaking around? Sheng Tianleng scoffed. Unfortunately, my file was officially transferred back to B City’s Special Forces team today. I need to leave immediately to report for duty before the afternoon. Please thank your sister for me—I appreciate the thought, but we’ll have to reschedule the meal.

Oh, that’s great news! Yu Jing’s eyes lit up with excitement. Then you should hurry back! Have you booked your ticket yet?

Got it. You can keep the car for now I’ll leave the keys at the hotel front desk. Don’t forget to pick them up. Sheng Tianleng rattled off the instructions before adopting a teasing tone, mimicking her voice as he whispered, So, how are things between you and your sister?

What do you mean, ‘how are things’? Yu Jing’s face flushed crimson, and she frowned. I won’t see you off. We’ll talk when I get back. With that, she hung up as if a monster were chasing her down the phone line.

Yi Lan, wearing a striped navy blue long-sleeved T-shirt, was pulling on white trousers when she heard Yu Jing end the call. She paused and asked, Something wrong with Xiao Tian?

Ah! Yu Jing suddenly replied with surprising vigor, then averted her gaze to Yi Lanyin. Why are you changing in front of people?

Yi Lanyin ignored her, waiting until she had finished putting on her pants before answering matter-of-factly, What part of me haven’t you seen before?

That’s different! Yu Jing protested anxiously. You’re a celebrity! How can you be so careless?

Yi Lanyin snatched the phone from Yu Jing’s hand, rolling her eyes. I’m plenty careful. This is just an employee perk.

Yu Jing’s expression was priceless. She didn’t dare meet Yi Lanyin’s gaze, instead fixing her eyes on Yi Lanyin’s bare toes. Mumbling in protest, she said, That’s… that’s still not okay. What kind of employee perk is this? You’re… you’re so shameless.

Yi Lanyin scoffed coldly. You believe everything I say. When we’re shooting magazines or dramas, some of the outfits are so complicated that the staff has to help me dress. I wasn’t naked in front of you, so what’s the big deal? She finished speaking, then leaned back on the bedroom’s beanbag chair, tilting her head to look up at Yu Jing. Or… do you have a boyfriend now? Afraid he’ll get jealous?

The bedroom faced south, featuring a full wall of floor-to-ceiling windows.

Sunlight streamed through the thick glass, gilding the bridge of Yi Lanyin’s upturned nose. She lay back, raising her hands to tug at the deep gray curtains. When Yu Jing didn’t answer, she lowered her hands and sat up straight, clutching the sleeve of her T-shirt. With a casual tone, she continued, It’s fine. If you don’t want to talk about it, you don’t have to.

Of course not, Yu Jing shrugged. Apart from what we had, I’ve never been in a serious relationship.

Oh. Yi Lanyin narrowed her eyes and nodded before flopping back down. She released the sleeve, stretching her arm to reach the curtain’s hem. Sunlight bathed her face, making her look like an elf who had mistakenly wandered into the human world.

So, what do you want for lunch? Yi Lanyin asked from the beanbag chair.

I want you.

Yu Jing pressed her lips together, suppressing the inappropriate thought. How about we eat at home? I’ll cook with Xiao Tao.