Chapter 74: Mind Reading (15)

Gu Li urgently called his driver and rushed to Yan Ling’s location at top speed.

Simultaneously, he spoke gently and patiently with the young girl over the phone. He dared not imagine what harm Yan Ling might have suffered; just the thought of her being victimized by some unknown scum while he was unaware made him seethe with uncontrollable anger.

Despite his icy expression and urgent state, Gu Li maintained a soft and soothing tone. He couldn’t let his fury frighten Yan Ling, who was so frightened and needed him desperately. To her, he must always be the trustworthy President Gu Li…

When Gu Li arrived, Yan Ling’s eyes were still red-rimmed. She seemed determined to control her emotions, but tears continued to fall uncontrollably. The young girl turned away, wiped her eyes hastily, and then faced him with a forced smile.

“Gu Li, I-I’m okay now. Sorry for making you worry…”

Seeing Yan Ling’s attempt to appear strong caused another pang of pain in Gu Li’s heart. Without hesitation, he walked over and enveloped her in a comforting embrace.

A few kind passersby were still with Yan Ling, providing comfort. Upon seeing Gu Li arrive, they felt relieved and reassured her, “It’s good that your boyfriend is here now. As a pretty young lady, make sure to have him accompany you whenever possible; there are quite a lot of bad people out there.”

Gu Li individually thanked these well-meaning individuals; without them, he shuddered to think what else Yan Ling might have endured.

Once the passersby left, Yan Ling had already sobbed herself out while nestled in his arms. Gu Li gently patted her back and whispered soothingly, “Don’t be afraid, I’m here. No one can harm you.”

He was determined to find out who the stalker was and would not let such a dangerous individual go unpunished!

After composing herself, Yan Ling softly pushed away from him, blushing as she murmured, “I’m sorry, I’ve made your shirt wet with my tears.”

“It’s nothing…” Gu Li didn’t mind at all; rather, he wished Yan Ling could continue crying in his embrace for just a bit longer.

Gu Li knew his thoughts were inappropriate, and although reluctant… he had to let go.

Continuing to hold her would no longer be appropriate; Yan Ling might notice something amiss.

Reluctantly, Gu Li released the girl from his embrace. Yan Ling continued apologizing, “I’m sorry, I was so overwhelmed at that moment and only thought of calling you. D-did I bother you again?”

“I don’t mind being bothered by you,” Gu Li said earnestly. “Knowing you can reach out to me when you need help makes me very happy.”

The fact that Yan Ling hadn’t turned to Xiao Lingfei and instead called him first brought a secret joy to Gu Li’s heart. Hearing those well-meaning bystanders refer to him as Yan Ling’s boyfriend moments ago made him even more… delighted.

However, during this sensitive time, Gu Li couldn’t show these emotions. Feeling pleased because a distressed young woman relied on him seemed too unbecoming.

Yan Ling pursed her lips with a small smile, but traces of lingering sadness remained in her eyes.

“If it’s not too difficult for you…” Gu Li asked gently, using his softest tone, “Could you tell me what happened? Did you get a look at the stalker’s face?”

Upon hearing this question, Yan Ling instantly tensed up, “I-I don’t remember…”

“Don’t remember…” This response, coupled with Yan Ling’s clearly evasive gaze, immediately signaled to Gu Li that something was amiss.

Why would the girl who had urgently sought his help over the phone change her story upon meeting him? What issue could there be with the person she claimed was stalking her…

Gu Li wasn’t one to force someone into discomfort, especially as Yan Ling appeared visibly frightened. He decided not to press further and helped the young woman into the car instead.

Before getting in himself, Gu Li scanned the surroundings near the street corner. The area wasn’t too remote, and he noticed surveillance cameras at the intersection. He resolved to find a way to access the footage and uncover exactly what had happened.

With a plan forming in his mind, Gu Li swiftly joined Yan Ling inside the vehicle, taking a seat next to her.

Yan Ling’s body trembled slightly. Unable to resist, Gu Li gently took hold of her clenched hands. Without saying much, he offered silent comfort and companionship.

Yan Ling glanced at him but didn’t pull away; instead, she lowered her head, cheeks flushing red once again.

“Master, where should we…?” The driver began to ask their destination, wondering if they needed to take Miss Yan home. However, catching sight of Young Master Gu Li’s expression through the rearview mirror, the driver closed his mouth and silently drove towards the Gu residence.

Previously, Young Master Gu Li had brought Miss Yan home once before. Now, with the pair seemingly entering a romantic relationship, it was even more… expected for them to return together.

As a professional chauffeur serving his employer, he knew exactly what to do.

This time, when Gu Li brought Yan Ling home, his mindset and feelings were entirely different from before.

Unlike the previous occasion, driven by her request, this time he took the initiative to care for her without even seeking Yan Ling’s consent—it was a decision made solely on his own accord.

Gu Li believed he couldn’t leave Yan Ling alone, especially given her fragile state, which made returning to the Yan household unsuitable.

He instructed the kitchen staff to prepare some desserts, hoping they might lift Yan Ling’s spirits. Meanwhile, he personally called the Yan family, leveraging his excellent reputation to assure Mrs. Yan that he would only temporarily look after Yan Ling and would safely return her at an appropriate time.

Mother Yan seemed quite understanding; not only did she entrust Yan Ling to his care, but she also urged them both to focus on their studies, showing no concern about their time together.

Relieved, Gu Li took a deep breath and returned to Yan Ling’s side after ending the call. He vowed not to leave her until she had regained her composure.

Yan Ling meticulously finished her cake, taking small bites. Her impeccable manners were deeply ingrained, never faltering even amidst these circumstances. With her graceful poise, one would hardly suspect what she had just endured.

Gu Li felt that Yan Ling was too composed for her own good, which paradoxically made him more anxious. However, aside from staying by her side, there seemed little else he could do.

“Gu Li, you don’t need to look at me like this. I’m fine, really. Nothing serious happened…” Yan Ling smiled, her expression returning to normalcy as she mustered the energy to make a light-hearted joke, “I scared them off with just my screams, so when I think about it, there wasn’t much to fear.”

Clearly, Yan Ling didn’t want him to worry, but how could Gu Li possibly not be concerned?

“But what if no one is around to help you on the road?” Gu Li said helplessly. “If you truly want me to feel at ease, there are certain things you shouldn’t hide from me.”

“I’ll be here to assist you,” Gu Li added.

Yan Ling fell silent for a moment before replying, “I’m alright…”

Gu Li wouldn’t burden her further. “It’s okay, just knowing that I’m here for you should suffice.” He then offered, “Let me arrange your room; would you like the same one as last time?” Strangely, Gu Li didn’t consider the option of sending Yan Ling back home.

Yan Ling nodded without any hesitation, “Thank you, Gu Li.”

Gu Li observed silently—she was indeed too trusting. With this thought, he personally escorted Yan Ling to the guest room. “If you need anything, please let me know. I am always available.”

“Then…could Gu Li help dry my hair again, like last time?” Yan Ling asked candidly, praising him openly, “It really felt so comforting.”

Gu Li’s gaze flickered slightly, but he did not refuse the young girl’s request. ”…Of course.”

“I don’t know how I fell asleep last time, but it felt like my sleep quality improved significantly.” Yan Ling shyly turned her face away, then suddenly remembering something, asked, “By the way, how did I get back to my room? This morning, I found myself already in bed…”

Surprised she only just thought to ask…

Gu Li chuckled, “It was… me who had the maid carry you back.”

He lied, knowing that if he admitted carrying Yan Ling himself, she would feel uncomfortable.

“Let me go thank her; I hope carrying me wasn’t too strenuous…” Yan Ling started making plans to find the maid.

Gu Li hastily stopped her, “No need, I’ve already thanked her. Please rest assured and take care of yourself.”

Her body was remarkably light and soft; there’s no way it could have been burdensome…

“I’ll call you again after I wash up,” the young woman said from the doorway, leaving behind words open to misinterpretation before closing the door.

Gu Li knew Yan Ling didn’t intend any double meaning with her statement; she simply wanted him to dry her hair. Nevertheless, his mind couldn’t help but wander towards inappropriate thoughts.

Gu Li recalled how he had secretly kissed the sleeping girl, holding her soft body as he carefully carried her back to her room step by step. A ticklish sensation arose within him; fearing further temptation, he hastily retreated from the door. Rushing into his bedroom, he entered the bathroom and took another cold shower to compose himself.

He shouldn’t have allowed Yan Ling to stay overnight.

Gu Li sighed, perhaps overestimating his own self-control. Why did one simple sentence ignite such wild thoughts?

Yan Ling was a young woman who had just been victimized by a stalker; he must not do anything that could frighten or distress her.

Collecting his composure, Gu Li wiped the fog off his glasses, straightened his attire, and upon stepping out, once again presented the impeccable, upright, and reliable image of Gu Li.

“Gu Li, come in.”

The girl’s long, damp hair cascaded down, water droplets seeping through her collar and wetting her freshly changed nightgown. Her entire body still carried the steamy scent of a recent bath. With just one glance, Gu Li quickly looked away. In that moment, she seemed like a siren from the deep sea, while he was a passing sailor, easily susceptible to her enchanting call with a single word.

Perhaps sensing his hesitation, confusion crept into Yan Ling’s voice, “Gu Li?”

Gu Li hastily entered his room, and as soon as he did, Yan Ling unhesitatingly closed the door behind him.

Gu Li was taken aback!

How could she allow a man into her room and so carelessly shut the door? Gu Li felt compelled to caution her about such imprudent behavior, but upon meeting her clear gaze, he suddenly believed it was his own thoughts that were impure.

If not for his overactive imagination, and if not for Yan Ling’s unwavering trust, he would never have been able to get this close to her.

Yan Ling walked to the sofa and sat down, offering the towel in her hand to him.

“Thank you for your help, President Gu Li.” Yan Ling brushed her hair back, giving him a reserved smile.

Her every movement remained graceful and proper. If only she weren’t clad in damp nightclothes, and if they weren’t alone in a confined space, Gu Li might not have viewed her beyond mere admiration.

Suppressing his turbulent thoughts and calming his racing heartbeat, Gu Li slowly moved to sit behind Yan Ling. He took the towel, this time drying her hair with even greater care and gentleness than before.

From his vantage point, he had a perfect view of the young girl’s delicate swan-like neck, her lovely profile, and her slightly pursed pale pink lips…

After drying her damp hair, Gu Li gently combed through the girl’s smooth tresses. This time, Yan Ling remained awake even after he finished drying her hair.

If only she would fall asleep, then he could kiss and embrace her just like last time…

As soon as these thoughts crossed his mind, Gu Li felt a wave of shame. He was hoping for something intimate to occur between them, even while simply caring for her. His intentions were tainted with unspoken desires.

He truly was despicable; there was no excuse left for him to stay here now. It was time to leave.

Just as Gu Li was about to bid farewell to Yan Ling, the young woman lifted her head and softly grasped his hand.

“Gu Li, can you wait until I’m asleep before leaving?” Yan Ling tightened her grip, revealing hints of fear and unease in her eyes, “I don’t want to be alone…”

Gu Li replied warmly, “Of course, I will.”

Realizing she still harbored fears, how could he possibly leave her at such a moment?

Yan Ling sighed, a faint smile spreading across her face.

Seeing her smile, Gu Li’s heart began to flutter again.

She lay down, pulling the blanket over herself, and reached out her arm. “Could you…”

Gu Li took Yan Ling’s hand without hesitation, sitting beside the bed. “Go ahead and sleep,” he reassured her. “I’ll stay right here, and I won’t leave until you’re asleep.”

Finally reassured, Yan Ling closed her eyes, placing her soft hand gently within his as if entrusting herself entirely to him.

Holding Yan Ling’s hand lightly, Gu Li waited quietly for her to fall asleep.

Her breathing gradually slowed down; she must be… asleep now.

Gu Li gazed at the sleeping girl, slowly leaned forward, and kissed her lips.

He couldn’t resist after all. Being so close to her, there was no better opportunity. He yearned to be intimate with her, to possess her. Ever since entering the room, his mind had been filled with these troubling thoughts, he…

In the end, he betrayed her trust; he could not live up to being the ideal President Gu Li she envisioned.

Yan Ling’s eyelashes fluttered, indicating she might wake up soon.

Panicked, Gu Li hastily stood up. Before he could release Yan Ling’s hand, the waking girl, full of fear, threw herself into his embrace.

Her body pressed completely against his, and instinctively, Gu Li tightened his hold around her. He heard her whisper from within his arms, “Gu Li, Gu Li… I dreamed that someone was kissing me, he was so terrifying. Don’t leave, don’t let go of me…”

Foolish girl, it was I who kissed you, not anyone else. How could it be mistaken?

How could Gu Li allow Yan Ling to perceive his kiss as someone else’s?

Gently stroking her long hair, he whispered into her ear, “It was me who kissed you.”

He saw her eyes widen with tears, lips slightly parted in astonishment. “What are you saying?”

Gu Li chose action over words to reveal the truth.

No longer wanting to conceal his feelings, overwhelmed by desire for her, he murmured, “Don’t be afraid, it was me.”

The tension in Yan Ling’s body soon dissolved; she relaxed and nestled softly into his embrace, closing her eyes once more.

She did not reject him.

With a gaze filled with longing, Gu Li looked at Yan Ling. Could it be possible? Could he truly have her?

Yan Ling gently tugged on his collar, prompting Gu Li to lean forward, surrendering himself to a dream shared between sirens and sailors.