Transmigrated As The Villainous Scumbag Wife Of A Disabled Tycoon - Chapter 44

44

It wasn’t as if she had never slept in the same room as Jiang Ciyi before.

When they had visited the old family mansion previously, the two of them were forced to share a room. Once, when Cheng Xing fell off the sofa in the middle of the night, Jiang Ciyi had even let her sleep on the bed.

It should be a perfectly normal thing.

But when Jiang Ciyi mentioned it now, Cheng Xing’s heart skipped a beat.

She avoided Jiang Ciyi’s gaze and tried to sound calm as she said, “Thank you.”

Jiang Ciyi let out a soft hum, her tone light and teasing, as if she were in a good mood.

Because of what the old lady had brought up during dinner, Cheng Xing had no desire to go downstairs and face those two. She simply stayed on the second floor, refusing to go down.

Her stance was clear—she would never agree to let this place be used as a filming location for a drama crew.

Besides, she didn’t have much to pack. Moving from the guest room to the master bedroom was just a matter of changing rooms.

While Jiang Ciyi was washing up, Cheng Xing found herself with nothing to do. She made an excuse to go to the study, waving her phone at Jiang Ciyi to indicate she could be reached if needed.

The study was quiet and empty. The desk was spotless, not a speck of dust in sight. Cheng Xing turned on the desk lamp, its soft light spilling over the surface. She took out her notebook from her bag, which already had more than ten pages filled, though she hadn’t had the chance to put any of it into practice.

Cheng Xing had been thinking about how to get Jiang Ciyi to trust her medical skills.

But after much thought, it seemed like a dead end.

She couldn’t just tell Jiang Ciyi outright that she was Cheng Xing from another world.

Nor could she do anything to Jiang Ciyi’s leg while she was asleep. If Jiang Ciyi woke up one day to find Cheng Xing’s hands on her leg or her leg covered in acupuncture needles, she might think Cheng Xing was plotting something. That could cause her points to drop…

The thought alone was terrifying.

But treating Jiang Ciyi’s condition wasn’t something that could be done overnight. It would require continuous adjustments to the treatment plan and medication, which would inevitably need Jiang Ciyi’s cooperation.

Cheng Xing was frowning, deep in thought, when her phone rang.

Assuming it was Jiang Ciyi, she answered without looking, only to hear Guan Linmin’s voice.

“Xingxing, how’s it going? Has your brother arranged a job for you yet?” Guan Linmin asked. “I heard that old lady caused trouble for you again? Why don’t I move in with you? With me there, she’d think twice before acting up. Honestly, she’s getting senile, always listening to Xu Zhaozhao. She’s forgotten who really carries the Cheng surname. Talk about favoring outsiders!”

Her words came fast and thick, leaving Cheng Xing no chance to respond.

When Guan Linmin finally paused, Cheng Xing set down her pen, closed her notebook, and tucked it into a drawer. Rubbing her temples, she said, “It’s arranged. I’ll head over to report after dropping off A’Ci tomorrow.”

“A’Ci?” Guan Linmin’s tone rose with a hint of gossip. “You two… made up?”

Cheng Xing: “…”

She pursed her lips. “Not yet.”

For some reason, Guan Linmin’s question made her feel a little guilty.

But she quickly composed herself and continued, “Don’t move in. I have my own ways of dealing with those two. If you come over…”

“What? Afraid I’ll make things messy for you?” Guan Linmin sounded a bit annoyed.

“No.” Cheng Xing said. “You and she don’t get along either. Why put yourself through that for me? Just enjoy your card games and pretend you don’t know about this. I’m grown up now; I can protect myself.”

There was a brief silence on the other end.

“Mommy?” Cheng Xing thought something was wrong. “What’s up?”

“Wahhh,” Guan Linmin suddenly cooed dramatically. “My precious daughter has grown up!”

Cheng Xing: “…”

Guan Linmin continued her playful whining for a bit, then reminded Cheng Xing to call her if she couldn’t handle things. Her tone was strikingly similar to how Cheng Xing had spoken to Jiang Ciyi earlier in the master bedroom.

Cheng Xing suddenly realized something: “…”

Could it be… she’s a mom fan of Jiang Ciyi?!

It seemed very possible.

Jiang Ciyi was so beautiful, with a perfect mix of strength and vulnerability. Anyone who saw her would probably feel a surge of affection and protectiveness.

Cheng Xing felt she’d finally figured out her own position, which also explained why her heart had fluttered when Jiang Ciyi mentioned sleeping together.

It was just chasing a star.

A mom fan thing.

Getting a chance to be close to her idol was bound to be exciting.

Cheng Xing patted her cheeks, telling herself not to be so pathetic and to act normal.

After letting her thoughts wander for a while, she got up and returned to the master bedroom.

When Cheng Xing returned to the bedroom, Jiang Ciyi was watching TV on her phone.

The screen was small and straining on the eyes.

Cheng Xing immediately said, “There’s a projector in the bedroom. I’ll set it up for you.”

As soon as she said it, she felt something was off—like she was being a bit too eager to please.

She coughed lightly and said more steadily, “Use the projector. It’s better for your eyes.”

“When a person stops growing, their nearsightedness stabilizes too.” Jiang Ciyi said, though she paused the video on her phone.

“But it can still cause eye fatigue or even keratitis. Plus, looking down for too long is bad for your neck.”

Cheng Xing had already turned on the projector, which faced the bed. With a tap on her phone, the video was projected onto the wall.

It showed a very beautiful face, dressed in ancient costume.

Cheng Xing used to enjoy watching historical dramas and casually asked, “What show is this?”

“Spring Court Evening,” Jiang Ciyi replied. “Qingqing recommended it to me.”

Jiang Ciyi was someone who paid attention to details, so she watched shows slowly, never using fast-forward. Sometimes she’d rewind to rewatch well-shot scenes. That’s why she was only on episode thirteen.

But she had a rough idea of what Zheng Shu Qing meant by “transmigration.” She’d been searching for related novels recently, adding many to her reading list but hadn’t had time to read them yet.

“The female lead is pretty,” Cheng Xing said offhandedly. “She holds up well under such a high-definition lens and a big screen.”

When watching TV at home with her mom, Cheng Xing would often chat about an actor’s gossip, a celebrity’s scandal, the plot, or how well a character suited their role. So this was just a casual comment, and she didn’t think much of it.

After setting up the projector for Jiang Ciyi, she said, “I’m going to wash up. If you’re sleepy, go ahead and sleep. I’ll be quiet when I come back.”

She even added, “Want me to turn off the room’s lights? You can keep the bedside lamp on.”

“No need.” Jiang Ciyi said lightly.

Strange.

Her expression didn’t change, but Cheng Xing could sense her tone had turned cold.

Cheng Xing didn’t think much of it and said, “Alright, keep watching.”

The master bedroom’s bathroom was larger, with a bathtub big enough for two people.

But Cheng Xing was tired and opted for a quick shower instead. Her hair got wet at the ends, so she dabbed it with a towel and changed into fresh pajamas before heading out.

Though it was winter in Jianggang, the nights stayed around the mid-teens Celsius. The house wasn’t cold, so a lightweight long-sleeve pajama set was enough.

Cheng Xing grabbed a black silk pajama set from the wardrobe—soft and comfortable.

When she came out, the projector was still on, and Jiang Ciyi was sitting there, seemingly engrossed in the show.

Not wanting to disturb her, Cheng Xing tiptoed to the bed, gently lifting the corner of the blanket to slip in.

Her phone vibrated slightly. She glanced at it—it was a message from Xu Zhaozhao: [Sister Xing.]

Cheng Xing ignored it, flipping her phone face-down.

The bed was large, and she only took up a small portion. The space between them, covered by the double blanket, was wide enough for two more people.

The room was filled with the sound of the projector. The actors’ professionalism was evident—clear enunciation, expressive delivery, a feast for the ears.

Cheng Xing listened for a bit, but her phone kept vibrating, annoying her. Even Jiang Ciyi glanced her way. Frustrated, Cheng Xing finally picked up her phone.

It was still Xu Zhaozhao.

[Sister Xing, I’m sorry for upsetting you tonight.]

[The thing about the crew borrowing the location was my fault—I agreed too quickly. There’ll be a lot of people coming for tomorrow’s shoot.]

[This drama is a big production. I thought letting them use Tinglan Mansion would be good for the Cheng family’s reputation.]

[I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking clearly. Please don’t be mad at Grandma.]

[…]

A full screen of messages. Cheng Xing’s head spun reading them.

By the end, she wasn’t even sure what Xu Zhaozhao was trying to say—it was all over the place.

Convinced that replying would only lead to another barrage of texts, Cheng Xing suppressed the urge to snap back and switched to her WeChat homepage.

There was an unread message from Xu Jingcheng.

They hadn’t chatted since adding each other on WeChat, and by now, Xu Jingcheng should’ve returned to Jing City.

Her sudden message, asking if Cheng Xing was busy, piqued her curiosity.

With nothing else to do, Cheng Xing replied: [Not really.]

Xu Jingcheng responded instantly: [What do you think about me moving to Jianggang for work?]

In the original novel, Xu Jingcheng only moved to Jianggang after falling in love, which led to her becoming friends with Jiang Ciyi. But this timing… it was much earlier than in the book.

Cheng Xing asked: [You’ve got someone you like?]

Xu Jing Cheng was blunt: [Are we already close enough for that kind of talk?]

Cheng Xing: [… ]

Cheng Xing: [Then we’re close enough for you to ask me about your career plans?]

Xu Jing Cheng: [… ]

One point each.

Xu Jingcheng sent a 20-second voice message: “Some stuff happened at home, and I’m fed up. I visited Jianggang last time and liked it. Plus, I’ve got you as a friend now. If my sister gives me grief, I can crash with you. Oh, and your gorgeous wife—I really like her.”

Cheng Xing: [smile.jpg. Miss Xu, are you trying to be my love rival?]

Xu Jingcheng: “Of course not. A friend’s wife is off-limits. I just admire her. By the way, has your wife’s leg gotten better? I know a famous doctor in Jing City. Should I bring them along when I visit? Consider it a wedding gift for you two.”

Xu Jingcheng was straightforward. Once she decided Cheng Xing was a friend, she went all out to be kind.

Though their first meeting wasn’t great, Xu Jingcheng had felt a connection with Cheng Xing during the Wangqingshan race. Even though she lost, she respected her.

Cheng Xing laughed: [Sure thing. I’ll cover your travel expenses. Thanks, Miss Xu.]

[Why so formal? Just call me CC. So, I’ll head to Jianggang?]

Cheng Xing smirked: [Come bother us anytime.]

Satisfied, Xu Jingcheng replied: [Sis is out!]

She even sent a comical “running away in panic” emoji, making Cheng Xing chuckle. She sent one back.

Talk about perfect timing—someone handing her a pillow just as she was sleepy. Now Cheng Xing had an excuse to treat Jiang Ciyi’s leg.

She could assist the doctor Xu Jingcheng recommended, claiming she was learning from them.

Truthfully, Cheng Xing had a nagging feeling that Jiang Ciyi already knew she wasn’t the original Cheng Xing. But she didn’t dare take the risk.

Even if Jiang Ciyi trusted her completely, what about others?

Blaming it all on a famous doctor was safer.

Her day-long dilemma resolved, Cheng Xing was in high spirits. But before she could share the news with Jiang Ciyi, the projector turned off, and the room’s lights went out, leaving only the dim glow of Jiang Ciyi’s bedside lamp.

The room fell quiet. Cheng Xing turned her head and saw Jiang Ciyi lying flat, eyes closed.

Cheng Xing settled down, keeping an arm’s distance between them, and glanced at her.

As expected of the female lead—her profile was breathtaking, like a delicate clay figure crafted by Nüwa herself.

“Sleepy?” Cheng Xing asked.

“Not really,” Jiang Ciyi replied, her tone neutral.

“Then what are you thinking about?” Cheng Xing pressed. “You’ve seemed off since we got back. Is it because of Su Lengyue?”

“A little,” Jiang Ciyi said.

“Is it tricky?”

“Not really.”

Jiang Ciyi was a good person—always answering questions.

But her tone was distant, polite yet detached, completely different from the warmth when she’d invited Cheng Xing to stay.

Cheng Xing had a hunch—she was upset.

But… why?

Afraid of upsetting her further and losing affection points, Cheng Xing hesitated to ask directly. Instead, she picked a safe question: “Want a leg massage?”

Jiang Ciyi suddenly opened her eyes, turning to look at her. Her brows furrowed slightly, tinged with annoyance.

Cheng Xing, thinking she’d touched a sore spot, quickly said, “Don’t be mad! I just watched a rehab therapy video today. It said leg massages can stimulate nerves. Your leg nerves aren’t completely dead—there’s a good chance you could stand again.”

Jiang Ciyi exhaled but said nothing.

“Really don’t want one?” Cheng Xing asked. “I’m pretty good at it.”

The room fell silent for a full minute. Defeated, Cheng Xing said, “Fine, go to sleep. You’ve got work tomorrow.”

She lay flat, ready to drift off.

But then Jiang Ciyi spoke: “Cheng Xing, let’s make a deal.”

“What?” Cheng Xing asked nervously.

“During our contract period, you’re not allowed to get involved with anyone else.” Jiang Ciyi said. “Otherwise, having someone like that in my bed would disgust me.”

Cheng Xing: “…”

A few minutes later, a lightbulb went off in Cheng Xing’s head. Like a wriggling bug, she scooted closer under the covers and poked Jiang Ciyi’s shoulder.

Jiang Ciyi opened her eyes again, her gaze sharp and clear, like a blade ready to cut with coldness.

Lowering her voice, Cheng Xing asked, “Are you upset because I complimented another woman’s looks?”

Jiang Ciyi closed her eyes and scoffed lightly. “Whatever.”

“It was just a casual compliment.” Cheng Xing explained.

“You seem to compliment everyone like that.” Jiang Ciyi said.

Cheng Xing: “… Not really.”

“I only said it about her once, and it wasn’t heartfelt.” Cheng Xing leaned closer, speaking softly. “But when I compliment you, I mean it. It comes from the heart.”

“It’s not important.” Jiang Ciyi said coldly.

“It is.” Cheng Xing said earnestly, promising, “Jiang Ciyi, during our contract, I’ll be completely devoted to you.”

After all, her life and future were tied to her.

“You’re my absolute priority.” Cheng Xing said. “So, how about that leg massage?”

Jiang Ciyi, annoyed by the warmth of Cheng Xing’s breath near her ear, pulled the blanket up as a barrier. “Go to sleep.”

Cheng Xing sheepishly retreated.

In the darkness, her senses heightened. She could smell the faint fragrance from Jiang Ciyi and hear her steady breathing.

The space felt smaller, and the strangeness of this world seemed to fade.

Time didn’t feel so unbearable anymore.

After a long pause, Cheng Xing turned to look at Jiang Ciyi’s profile and said softly, “Jiang Ciyi, how are you so wonderful?”

Jiang Ciyi: “…”

With her eyes closed, she felt the nearby breathing. “Forgot I threatened to kill you?”

Cheng Xing recalled the moment Jiang Ciyi held a scalpel to her throat, warning that she never needed a second strike to kill.

It hadn’t been that long ago, yet it felt like a lifetime.

Every day in this world was filled with events. Most nights, she and Jiang Ciyi shared the same space, falling asleep to each other’s breathing. Cheng Xing thought about Jiang Ciyi constantly.

Before she knew it, Jiang Ciyi was everywhere—beside her, in her mind.

She felt Jiang Ciyi was too perfect, unmatched by anyone.

Like today—Jiang Ciyi could’ve made her sleep on the sofa or the floor, or told her to deal with the two downstairs herself. But she didn’t. She shared the bed, just like that night.

Beneath Jiang Ciyi’s cold exterior was a soft heart.

Cheng Xing smiled. “You had no choice that day. If I were you, I’d have done the same.”

“Cheng Xing.” Jiang Ciyi called.

“Yeah?”

“Is there something you want from me?”

“…”

Cheng Xing froze, sensing danger, and deflected, “Yeah, you’re my wife. What do you think I want?”

Jiang Ciyi let out a soft laugh and turned to look at her.

Her bedside lamp cast her face in shadow, making her slight smile alluring. Cheng Xing instinctively shrank deeper into the covers.

Then Jiang Ciyi said, “What about your desires?”

Cheng Xing: “…?”

“If your legs weren’t an issue… I… I’d definitely have desires.” Cheng Xing stammered. “Go to sleep already, or you’ll be late for work tomorrow.”

Jiang Ciyi lowered her gaze and said softly, “Cheng Xing, don’t lie. I’ve seen too many people. There’s no desire in your eyes…”

Before she could finish, Cheng Xing leaned over the covers, propping herself up with one hand beside Jiang Ciyi’s face, her throat bobbing. “Are you sure about that?”

Her gentle voice called softly, “A’Ci.”