Chapter 69: Mind Reading (10)

Jin Yingyao’s voice was loud, his expression furious, as if deliberately targeting Yan Ling to drive her away. Not only were Gu Li and Xiao Lingfei visibly dissatisfied with his behavior, even other club members felt that Jin Yingyao had gone too far.

“Earlier this morning, Jin Yingyao was blushing and starry-eyed around Yan Ling. How could he turn so spiteful just because she rejected him…”

“So this is how a man reacts after failed courtship? Absolutely disgraceful!”

“I used to admire him, thinking he was exceptional, but now… seeing how he treats someone he supposedly likes, no wonder Yan Ling rejected him.”

“Hush, lower your voices! He’s looking over here!”

Jin Yingyao turned and glared at the gossiping club members. Realizing further explanation would be futile, he decided to ignore them and focus on resolving the immediate issue at hand.

“I said, I disagree,” Jin Yingyao declared firmly. “Xiao Lingfei has already announced publicly that we’re not accepting new members this year. Allowing her entry would be unfair to other students!”

Xiao Lingfei shrugged off Jin Yingyao’s hand and retorted unhappily, “I said ‘not recruiting externally,’ but Yan Ling isn’t just anyone. If I want her to join, then she should be allowed!”

[Xiao Lingfei: Can’t Yingyao act more mature? I know he’s upset about his breakup, but he shouldn’t take it out on Yan Ling.]

[Yan Ling doesn’t play games; even with Yingyao, she firmly rejected him without hesitation. She truly is the purest and most adorable girl I’ve ever met.]

Jin Yingyao was speechless.

Pure? Adorable? Was this what Xiao Lingfei genuinely thought while Jin Yingyao had been wholeheartedly looking out for him? Couldn’t his supposed best friend stop undermining him?!

Jin Yingyao considered throwing his hands up in frustration, but Xiao Lingfei was merely foolishly deceived. If Jin Yingyao didn’t help him, no one else would!

Gu Li’s attention remained fixed on Yan Ling. Seeing the dejected look as she bowed her head, his expression also slightly darkened. “The club isn’t yours alone, Jin Yingyao.”

“Since you disagree, let’s proceed by the old rules.” Gu Li clapped his hands, gathering the surrounding club members. “Let’s vote. All existing club members will cast their ballots. If there’s a majority in favor, the decision stands.”

No one opposed Gu Li’s suggestion.

In Saint Hieria, voting was considered the most authoritative method of decision-making.

Gu Li thought, This is also an opportunity for Yan Ling to gain everyone’s acceptance. Entering the club through collective votes will be more beneficial for her than my private endorsement.

Jin Yingyao was speechless. How had he never noticed before that Gu Li could be so calculating? Clearly, Gu Li’s thoughts were entirely focused on Yan Ling; she truly has bewitched him!

Strangely, it seemed like the creepy Yan Ling had been unusually quiet for some time now.

Jin Yingyao turned to glance at Yan Ling, and suddenly, the outwardly beautiful girl lifted her head, her gaze directly meeting his.

Yan Ling internally mused, “So Jin Yingyao actually likes me.”

As if seeing Jin Yingyao for the first time, she scrutinized him intently from head to toe.

Yan Ling continued, “His clumsiness makes sense now, all because he likes me. If indeed he does, even his stupidity might be tolerable. Perhaps if he could be as obedient as Gu Li, I might consider him.”

Jin Yingyao shuddered, feeling prickles all over under her penetrating gaze. It was as if he had been stripped naked and thrown into the snow, experiencing a chilling sensation throughout his body.

Wh-what is she doing?! Is this pervert also misunderstanding that I like her, just like others do? And because of this misconception, has she suddenly taken interest in me?

Previously, Jin Yingyao had felt indignant that Yan Ling didn’t seem to notice him, thinking she lacked discernment. But now that she abruptly showed interest, he found himself even more frustrated.

Carefully, Jin Yingyao turned away from the girl, presenting his back to avoid her seeing his stiff expression. Even after turning, Yan Ling’s gaze remained fixed on his back, making Jin Yingyao acutely aware of what it meant to feel “like there’s a thorn piercing through one’s spine.”

Terrifying—so this is how it feels to be targeted by a creep… Too horrifying, my heart is pounding erratically, and cold sweat is breaking out on my forehead.

Yan Ling typed, “Quite a pert behind and legs are very straight too. Although not as seductive as my fiancé, the figure certainly has its merits.”

Jin Yingyao felt speechless.

His eyelid twitched—what kind of woman stares at a man’s rear like this? Can’t this freak show some restraint?!

“Those who agree, please raise your hands. If more than half vote in favor, Yan Ling will become our HR club’s new member,” Gu Li announced, being the first to lift his hand. “I agree with her joining.”

Xiao Lingfei promptly followed suit, raising his hand as well. “I also agree.”

Yan Ling, as the campus goddess, already had considerable popularity among students. Witnessing such a beautiful girl targeted maliciously, not just those with a sense of justice but even ordinary individuals couldn’t stand idly by.

Club members raised their hands one after another, chiming in with, “I agree too!”

Lu Yifan entered the club room just in time to witness this scene. Without hesitation, he enthusiastically lifted both arms and exclaimed, “Is the club planning a new event? I agree!”

Everyone present, except for Jin Yingyao, raised their hands.

Satisfied, Gu Li pushed up his glasses. “Excellent. Then let us welcome Yan Ling as the newest member of the HR club.”

Upon hearing this, Lu Yifan cheered excitedly, “Wow, Lingling, you’ve joined so quickly? That’s fantastic! Now I can come find you to hang out after school!”

The girl beamed with a sweet smile, “Sounds great.”

Jin Yingyao suddenly grew wary.

Yan Ling’s admission to the club was now settled, allowing her unfettered access to Gu Li, Lu Yifan, and others. Just overnight, Gu Li had lost his sense of morality, and Jin Yingyao still couldn’t fathom what transpired between them. If Yan Ling were to target Lu Yifan next, the consequences could be dire!

Lu Yifan, that foolishly eager fool, willingly gravitated towards Yan Ling; there seemed no way to stop him. How could he make Yan Ling abandon her intentions to harm his friends?

Yan Ling: My darling Yifan is as charming and energetic as ever. His lips look so luscious, I just want to nourish him thoroughly.

The girl retrieved two boxes of strawberry milk and a pack of homemade cookies from her backpack, then beckoned to Lu Yifan, “Yifan, would you like some?”

Lu Yifan swiftly dashed over to Yan Ling, his radiant smile outshining even his golden hair, green eyes sparkling like emeralds. “How did Lingling know I love cookies?”

“Yifan, you’re my friend,” the girl said sincerely as she sat on the sofa. “Of course, I’d take an interest in knowing more about you.”

Yan Ling: [The profile said these are Yifan’s favorites. These homemade cookies are filled with love, and I added some special, precious little things inside—just perfect for Yifan to savor bite by bite.]

Lu Yifan: [Wahh, this is such a thoughtful and gentle girl! You’re amazing, Lingling!]

Jin Yingyao was shocked! What did she mean by “special, precious little things”? What had she added?! Lu Yifan, completely unsuspecting, reached out eagerly to grab a cookie.

Daring not to let Lu Yifan consume something of unknown origin, Jin Yingyao swiftly approached them, snatching the box of handmade cookies from Yan Ling’s hands and simultaneously grabbing away a cookie already held by Lu Yifan.

“Yaoyao?” Lu Yifan looked up, his face full of confusion. “Do you want it?”

From the start, Xiao Lingfei had been closely observing Jin Yingyao’s actions. Seeing that Jin Yingyao unexpectedly took the food Yan Ling prepared for Lu Yifan, he strode over, his gaze carrying a hint of warning. “Yingyao, what are you doing?”

Although Gu Li was occupied with student council matters, he still kept an eye on their situation amidst his tasks.

Under the gaze of the entire club, Jin Yingyao displayed unprecedented shamelessness and calmly stated, “This belongs to me now.”

He couldn’t say that Yan Ling’s creations were unfit for consumption, nor could he claim suspicion of tampering. His only option was to seize it without any excuse.

Well aware of the consequences his actions might bring, he braced himself.

“Hisss!” The club members gasped, taken aback. Just moments ago, Jin Yingyao had been eager to drive away Yan Ling, yet now he swiftly snatched her homemade cookies. This behavior… truly seemed too childish!

A thought emerged in everyone’s minds: Jin Yingyao really does have strong feelings for Yan Ling!

Even Xiao Lingfei’s expression grew complicated: Yingyao, must you love her so deeply? Losing all self-control…

Jin Yingyao, feeling conflicted but gradually growing accustomed to it, knew others might not understand him. However, as long as he was clear about his intentions, that mattered most. He was doing this to save his friends; eventually, they would recognize his well-meant efforts!

“Yaoyao, how could you take them all?” A hint of complaint surfaced on Lu Yifan’s delicate and lovely face. “Give them back quickly, those were Lingling’s cookies for me!”

Jin Yingyao stuffed the box of cookies into his jacket, ignoring Lu Yifan’s demands. As soon as he got home, he planned to have someone analyze them, checking for any suspicious substances. If he found evidence, he would immediately expose Yan Ling!

Due to Jin Yingyao’s actions, the girl’s gaze once again landed on him.

Yan Ling thought, [Does he also want me to feed him? Pfft, his foolish demeanor is somewhat amusing.]

Jin Yingyao retorted mentally, You’re the fool! No matter what you attempt, I’ll uncover your schemes!

[If Jin Yingyao remains this intriguing, perhaps there’s potential in using him after all.] She mused, [Can he love me more deeply than anyone else, cherish me beyond all others? My… Yingyao.]

Yan Ling let out a soft laugh, her eyes unwavering as she gazed at Jin Yingyao with a tender expression that made her appear exceptionally captivating and enchanting.

Unaware of how many times Yan Ling had internally scorned him before, Jin Yingyao was suddenly confronted with these whispered words meant only for another. Initially incredulous, he then felt his heart race wildly, panicking so much that he wanted to flee instantly.

Oh no, this woman truly has taken an interest in me!

What might she do to him? Would she treat him just as she did Gu Li? She…

Aaaaaah, what should he do?!

Jin Yingyao found himself engulfed in unprecedented emotional turmoil.

However, the girl casually shifted her gaze and pushed the strawberry milk towards the still-angry Lu Yifan, soothingly saying, “Yifan, have some milk instead. I’ll bake you more cookies tomorrow.”

Lu Yifan remained upset, pouting, “Yaoyao was so mean; that was mine…”

In his thoughts, Lu Yifan grumbled, Is Yaoyao jealous of me, stealing my treats like this? How childish, childish, childish!

After mentally venting for a bit, Lu Yifan pulled out a straw to drink his milk.

Unexpectedly, Jin Yingyao, who had just snatched the cookies, swooped back again and took both the milk from Lu Yifan’s hand and the strawberry milk in front of Yan Ling.

“Don’t bring him any food,” Jin Yingyao said, somewhat hesitant to look at Yan Ling. He realized that being on the receiving end of Yan Ling’s “affection” was even more terrifying than having her dislike him. “This is a club, not a place for picnics.”

[Hee, his serious expression is quite amusing too. Why aren’t you looking at me? Am I not attractive enough? Little Yingyao, use those eyes of yours to really see me.]

Jin Yingyao shuddered slightly and hastily moved away with the food.

Lu Yifan didn’t expect Jin Yingyao to take everything without leaving any behind. With a surprised “wow,” he chased after Jin Yingyao, calling out, “Yaoyao! Give it back, give it back!”

Perhaps due to Jin Yingyao’s overly clumsy actions, the expressions of the club members towards him became somewhat indescribable. However, the tense atmosphere within the group dissipated considerably, allowing everyone to relax at least a little.

Now finally getting his chance to talk privately with Yan Ling, Xiao Lingfei immediately began with an apology upon facing her. “I’m sorry…”

“Why would you apologize to me?” The girl remained composed on the sofa, tilting her head slightly to look at him, her eyes filled with genuine confusion.

“Yingyao… must have caused you a lot of trouble.” Xiao Lingfei sat next to the girl, a hint of remorse evident in his expression. “It was my failure to handle this situation properly…”

“But it’s not your fault,” Yan Ling said softly, instantly calming the initially agitated Xiao Lingfei with her gentle voice.

“You didn’t choose to abandon me, and that alone makes me very happy.”

The girl spoke these words in a hushed tone, so soft that Xiao Lingfei had to listen attentively to understand her.

As soon as she finished, the girl turned away again. From Xiao Lingfei’s angle, he could just glimpse her blushing cheeks and the faintly bitten, reddened lips bearing subtle tooth marks.

That heart-pounding sensation returned once more.

Xiao Lingfei felt his heartbeat quicken significantly. With just one sentence, one expression, it seemed she perfectly resonated with his ideal type, making him adore her even more no matter how he looked at her.

“How could I ever abandon you?”

Since they were within the club setting, Jin Yingyao’s incident drew continuous attention from other students. As a result, Xiao Lingfei and Yan Ling couldn’t converse as freely and casually as before. However, whispering sweet nothings discreetly under everyone’s watchful eyes somehow made the moment feel…even more enchanting.

“Even if Jin Yingyao is my friend, there’s no way I’d let you go to him.” Xiao Lingfei lowered his voice, his fox-like eyes filled with smug satisfaction. “I know you like me, and based on that alone, he doesn’t stand a chance with you.”

Yan Ling shot him a mild glare, ”…How can you be so narcissistic?”

Her gaze seemed to hook onto him; just one look made his heart tingle with warmth. Unable to resist, Xiao Lingfei leaned even closer to Yan Ling, bringing his face near hers and asking, “Am I not handsome enough for you?”

Xiao Lingfei appeared innately aware of his strengths. With those elongated fox eyes slightly upturned at the corners, his smile was both mischievous and captivating. He declared, “My handsomeness is all yours alone.”

His teasing once again left the girl blushing deeply, her eyes glistening. “How many people have you said this to? Aren’t you too smooth with your words?”

“None,” Xiao Lingfei hastily replied. “I’ve only ever said it to you!”

Other girls didn’t need any coaxing; they would openly stare at him without prompting. Unlike Yan Ling, who wouldn’t spare him a glance unless he actively teased her.

Seeing that Yan Ling was about to ignore him again, Xiao Lingfei feigned hurt, pleading, “Yan Ling, Lingling? Don’t you trust me?”

“You…,” Yan Ling sighed softly, seemingly exasperated, “Can’t you be more serious?”

Just as Xiao Lingfei was about to defend himself, Gu Li suddenly called out from behind his desk, interrupting them.

Xiao Lingfei fell silent, momentarily taken aback.

Damn! Does the president not know that interrupting someone’s romance invites a swift kick from fate?!

Xiao Lingfei silently grumbled to himself but didn’t take it too seriously. However, Jin Yingyao’s gaze instantly sharpened.

Jin Yingyao internally muttered: Here we go—this is their moment for covert flirtation, clandestine whispers, and secret trysts!

Pushing aside Lu Yifan, who was incessantly chattering beside him, Jin Yingyao strode towards the desk, found a chair, and sat down, openly staring at the pair without any subtlety.

Perhaps emboldened by his earlier audacity of snatching food, Jin Yingyao felt a reckless urge to let loose and embrace his impulses fully.

Since everyone already misinterpreted him as having feelings for Yan Ling, denying it seemed futile. So, he might as well watch them openly. He couldn’t believe they would dare do anything under his unyielding gaze!

Gu Li had called Yan Ling over purely to spare her from Xiao Lingfei’s persistent harassment. He knew Yan Ling wasn’t interested in Xiao Lingfei and often ended up feeling “bullied” during their interactions. Yet, there were valid reasons for Yan Ling and Xiao Lingfei to engage with each other, making it impossible for Gu Li to openly intervene. Thus, his only option was to find ways to minimize their contact.

Listening to Gu Li’s cautious thoughts, Jin Yingyao inwardly scoffed. No matter how many rationalizations or excuses Gu Li conjured, his intention to steal another man’s fiancée remained unchanged—a truly hypocritical fellow!

The idea that Yan Ling could be mistreated by Xiao Lingfei was even more laughable. This woman had insatiable desires; she had her eye on nearly all his friends. And, and…even entertained thoughts about him at one point! Ha! As if she could ever be the victim—she’s the twisted tormentor, not the bullied!

Inwardly cursing, Jin Yingyao felt Yan Ling’s gaze sweep over him, causing his spine to involuntarily straighten and his breath to hitch.

Yan Ling: [LittleYingyao, is he really so unwilling to let me go? Following me everywhere, how adorable~]

Jin Yingyao’s lips twitched; as if he was reluctant! This creep sure knew how to inflate her own ego!

“Jin Yingyao, do you need something?” Gu Li, feeling uncomfortable under such hostile scrutiny from another person, couldn’t help but ask.

Gu Li: [After Yan Ling already rejected him, is Jin Yingyao now disregarding brotherly bonds, becoming hostile towards anyone approaching her?]

Jin Yingyao chuckled, “Nothing, just wanted to sit for a bit.”

Who exactly is ignoring brotherly bonds? How dare you think like that, Gu Li!

The girl sat next to Gu Li, chin resting on her hand, watching them both with a gleeful smile.

Yan Ling: [Who should I choose tonight? Gu Li, my darling Yifan, or perhaps my seductive fiancé?]

Jin Yingyao’s eyes widened dramatically! Was Yan Ling treating this like selecting imperial concubines? Does she get to pick someone arbitrarily every night?

She had already selected those three; why hadn’t she considered him? Wait… not being considered was actually great! Thank heavens, he could still maintain his purity!

Yan Ling: “Hmm… can’t decide. Let’s draw lots then - whoever I pick tonight, that’s who I’ll visit. Hee hee.”

Jin Yingyao remained speechless.

With Yan Ling targeting three individuals and her intentions unclear, Jin Yingyao struggled to know how to guard against her effectively. Just like last night, he couldn’t fathom how Yan Ling and Gu Li connected so swiftly. What if—what if Yan Ling decides to sneak off to someone else’s house late at night? That pervert would definitely do something like that!

So… is his only option to closely follow Yan Ling now? Wherever she goes, he must trail behind, determined not to let her slip through his watch!

“President Gu Li, do you have any tasks for me?” Yan Ling asked Gu Li.

As soon as Gu Li looked at Yan Ling, his gaze softened instantly. “We’re planning a club event. Do you have any suggestions?”

“I don’t really have ideas… Honestly, I joined the club because it seemed laid-back and free-spirited. Plus, President Gu Li, you…” The girl blushed slightly, smiling bashfully, “It feels like with you around, there’s no need to worry about anything.”

Gu Li’s smile softened further. “Then let’s choose activities that allow us to relax. What are your interests? Do you enjoy anything specific…?”

“Ahem!” Jin Yingyao suddenly burst out with loud coughs.

Gu Li turned to look at him; seated nearby, Jin Yingyao continued coughing as soon as their eyes met.

So fake… Too fake! It was clearly an intentional interruption!

“If you’re feeling unwell, perhaps step aside.” Gu Li found few people as adept at testing one’s patience as Jin Yingyao, especially since his brain seemed damaged by matters of love. He couldn’t predict what Jin Yingyao might do next.

Jin Yingyao internally retorted, ”…Only you’re the one with a damaged brain!”

“I’m staying right here. You two can continue.” How dare they flirt so openly in front of him? Did they really think he, Jin Yingyao, was invisible?

Gu Li remained silent, momentarily speechless.

[Indeed, the club environment isn’t conducive. We should find ways to spend time alone instead. If only Yan Ling could also join me tonight…]

Jin Yingyao perked up his ears, eagerly waiting for the crucial continuation, but just as it reached the key moment, Gu Li abruptly stopped thinking!

Due to Jin Yingyao’s presence, Gu Li and Yan Ling were unable to engage in any substantial conversation.

As their thoughts entangled for quite some time, Jin Yingyao’s face turned pale with anxiety. Despite appearing friendly on the surface, he couldn’t shake the feeling that they were secretly betraying his good friend…

Once the club activities concluded, Jin Yingyao noticed Yan Ling saying her goodbyes to Xiao Lingfei and leaving the club.

Without wasting any time, Jin Yingyao followed closely behind her.

Upon stepping out of the club, Jin Yingyao realized that having such a strong presence wasn’t always advantageous. He wanted to tail Yan Ling, but as soon as he emerged, most eyes fell upon him. It seemed clear that without disguising himself, tracking her would be impossible…

Jin Yingyao pondered briefly before calling his driver, instructing them to bring items like hats and masks for camouflage. While waiting at the gate of the academy, he kept an eye out for Yan Ling’s exit.

It was unclear what Yan Ling was doing inside, but Jin Yingyao had to wait over an hour before she finally appeared. Instead of taking a private car, she leisurely walked out, which instantly perked up Jin Yingyao’s spirits. Carefully donning his disguise, he cautiously trailed behind her.

Yan Ling didn’t head towards the main road leading to the shopping mall; instead, she veered further off-course. Jin Yingyao followed her through numerous twists and turns. At one street corner, in the blink of an eye, he lost sight of her…

Frustrated, Jin Yingyao kicked the wall. Had his pursuit today been all for nothing? Did Yan Ling manage to shake him off to meet someone else?

Suddenly, he heard a telepathic thought, which was… Yan Ling’s inner voice.

“Let me see who I’ve caught,” the girl mused. “A little mouse covered up quite thoroughly.”

Jin Yingyao’s heart nearly stopped from fear. Turning around, he found the very girl he had been trailing standing behind him, smiling kindly.

“Jin-Ying-yao?” The girl tilted her head, looking at him with clear, penetrating eyes.

Shaking his head, Jin Yingyao muttered, “You must have mistaken me for someone else.”

The girl pointed to the jacket Jin Yingyao was wearing. “Silver buttons—only four people at Saint Hieria can wear jackets like this.”

Caught off guard, Jin Yingyao realized his oversight! With his cover blown, he reluctantly lifted his mask, forcing a sheepish smile. “Ha ha, what a coincidence, Schoolgirl Yan.”

“Indeed, quite coincidental.” Yan Ling took a few steps closer, trapping him against the wall. “Why such a coincidence that Schoolmate Jin is following me?”

Jin Yingyao remained speechless.

“Do you like me enough to stalk me now?” The girl’s lips curved upwards as her eyes darted over his body.

How could Jin Yingyao admit something like that? “No! I…”

“Forget it, don’t speak.” Suddenly, the girl wrapped her arms around his neck, tiptoed, and pressed herself fully into his embrace.

Yan Ling whispered, “Feel me, embrace me, come love me…”

Surrounded by a fragrant aroma, Jin Yingyao couldn’t comprehend how the situation had unfolded this way. With his back against the wall, the girl’s hands held his head firmly, forcing him to lower it, and then… she kissed him.

Her soft lips met his, kissing him without any hesitation!

“Close your eyes,” the girl commanded.

Jin Yingyao’s calves trembled, vividly recalling various disturbing news stories involving perversion and assault.

“Close them!” The girl’s tone grew slightly impatient.

Jin Yingyao hastily shut his eyes, and with vision gone, his other senses became heightened significantly.

He could feel the girl’s soft body, delicate like cotton candy. He realized he could effortlessly lift her up; there was no reason for him to be afraid. Her body smelled enticingly fragrant, her lips tasted sweet, and even her…

Jin Yingyao felt disoriented by the kisses, his heart pounding harder with each beat.

Yan Ling’s slender hands reached into his jacket, exploring gently.

Jin Yingyao heard slight rustling sounds. As her lips parted from him, something crisp and sweet—a cookie—was placed in his mouth.

“Eat it,” the girl said.

Automatically, Jin Yingyao began chewing the food. Only after Yan Ling left did he slowly open his eyes.

Jin Yingyao slid down along the wall onto the floor. In just a short span of time, he had lost his first kiss, been kissed by a pervert, and moreover…

Lowering his head, Jin Yingyao looked at the tampered box of cookies in his hand, despair and fear reflecting in his eyes.

It’s over. It’s all over. He had eaten one of those cookies.

Is he… going to die now?

But… those kisses were truly sweet, Jin Yingyao reminisced wistfully.

Realizing what he was thinking, his sense of despair deepened further.