Chapter 85: Mind Reading (26)

A top-notch hacker had been enlisted at Jin Yingyao’s request and was diligently attempting to breach the forum’s firewall.

He also obtained information about Yan Ling and her parents.

Jin Yingyao opened the files, meticulously reading every word.

As he delved deeper into the documents, his frown grew more pronounced.

While it’s common for heirs of conglomerates to learn and manage numerous affairs, very few lived as intensely scheduled lives as Yan Ling did.

She had to master an overwhelming amount of knowledge, not just over a couple of days but from a young age. Her upbringing spared no effort, relentlessly pushing her to study continuously.

Her impeccable poise was honed through this relentless daily learning regimen.

Jin Yingyao always felt that Yan Ling’s outward appearance could be deceiving, forgetting that such deception required immense dedication and effort on her part.

With no room for respite in her life, could it be that under these conditions, Yan Ling’s desires and aspirations for affection gradually became distorted?

Father and Mother Yan did not truly love Yan Ling; if they did, they wouldn’t have burdened their daughter with such immense pressure. Moreover, there was little evidence of genuine love between them either.

He had now uncovered the root cause of Yan Ling’s casual and promiscuous approach to relationships.

Father and Mother Yan essentially had an open marriage; after giving birth to Yan Ling, they each pursued their own affairs separately. They frequently brought different lovers home, which was no secret within the Yan household.

Lovers…

Seeing this term in the investigation files shocked Jin Yingyao.

He once wondered why Yan Ling expected him to be her obedient lover—how could she even contemplate having multiple partners without any commitment? Now, he understood the reason behind it.

With Father and Mother Yan engaging in numerous extramarital affairs, Yan Ling believed there was nothing wrong with seeking such relationships. Her views on love and marriage were heavily influenced by her parents’ behavior. How could Jin Yingyao possibly change her mindset?!

After reviewing the documents, Jin Yingyao fell silent.

His perception of Yan Ling had been superficial, merely based on overhearing her thoughts and labeling her as an irredeemable deviant. In his arrogance, he tried to expose her “true nature,” only to realize he never truly understood who she was.

Jin Yingyao buried his face in his hands, waves of regret washing over him continuously.

He had messed things up badly. Yan Ling’s mental state was already suppressed and unhealthy; she had strived so hard to maintain her perfect image, only for it all to be shattered by him.

To make matters worse, public opinion spiraled out of control. Jin Yingyao couldn’t identify the person targeting Yan Ling. Apart from those few close friends who supported her, most other students automatically condemned Yan Ling upon seeing the forum posts.

Behind closed doors, they whispered and thought, their minds filled with vile and disgusting notions.

It turned out that having such dark thoughts wasn’t exclusive to villains; even once-friendly and amiable classmates could instantly transform beyond recognition.

Jin Yingyao had always considered his telepathic ability as his trump card, using others’ inner thoughts to judge their character. After acquiring this power, he felt elated and invincible, believing he knew everything about everyone. The most agonizing moment came when he first heard Yan Ling’s thoughts, which left him disoriented and overwhelmed.

But what were Yan Ling’s thoughts compared to this chaos? As Jin Yingyao walked through the college campus, countless voices and thoughts flooded his mind. At that instant, he wished he were deaf, desperately wanting to block out any unwarranted thoughts people might have about Yan Ling!

“Something major is happening!” a nearby student exclaimed, “Someone accepted the college’s challenge task and asked Yan Ling out!”

“Woah, that’s one brave soul,” another classmate chuckled sarcastically. “With Xiao Lingfei, Lu Yifan, and others being so close to Yan Ling, who would dare risk their life by asking her out?”

“What’s the big deal? Yan Ling has privately gone on dates with many people already. Can Xiao Lingfei and his friends really stop her?” A boy laughed loudly. “Come on, let’s go see for ourselves. If it’s possible, I might ask her out too!”

Both those seeking spectacle and those harboring intentions towards Yan Ling rushed en masse towards her classroom.

Jin Yingyao felt a chill in his heart. He had initially moved away from Yan Ling’s class, wandering around the college, precisely to avoid drawing her attention. Little did he expect that during his brief absence, someone foolish enough would attempt to approach Yan Ling!

Jin Yingyao sprinted at top speed towards Yan Ling’s classroom, finding it surrounded by layers of students. As they noticed him approaching, the crowd parted to make way. Entering the room, Jin Yingyao immediately heard a boy’s arrogant voice:

“Yan Ling, not only do I want to ask you out, but I also wonder how much it would cost for a night with you?”

Upon hearing this, Jin Yingyao’s entire body went ice-cold. Without even daring to glance at Yan Ling’s reaction, he rushed forward and grabbed the boy aggressively. Without uttering a word, his fist slammed down instantly.

“Ah—!” The startled girls collectively screamed at the sudden violence.

The bewildered boy let out a pained cry as well. Upon seeing it was Jin Yingyao attacking him, he cursed angrily, “Damn it, Jin Yingyao! Haven’t you already been rejected by her? We’re both victims of deception here; what are you trying to prove!”

Someone nearby chimed in, “Yeah, do you really think she’ll look up to you for this, Jin Yingyao? It doesn’t change anything!”

Immediately after, that person also received a punch.

Jin Yingyao, still striking relentlessly, yelled, “Anyone who dares to lay a hand on Yan Ling won’t escape unpunished!”

“Don’t think I’m unaware of your intentions—you just want to take advantage amidst the chaos!” Jin Yingyao spat disgustedly, “How revolting!”

“Suddenly, Jin Yingyao, aren’t you with Xu Jingjing now? How can you still be hung up on Yan Ling when you have a girlfriend?” someone unexpectedly questioned.

“Yeah, yeah, you’ve even been on a date at the amusement park with her. Aren’t you worried Xu Jingjing will cause trouble for defending Yan Ling so fiercely?”

Jin Yingyao was utterly baffled by this news. When did he suddenly have a girlfriend, and moreover, one like Xu Jingjing who had an ambiguous relationship with Yan Ling?

Despite his confusion, Jin Yingyao didn’t have the energy to address it because… Yan Ling stood up from her seat.

The boisterous boys immediately fell silent as soon as they saw Yan Ling. They couldn’t explain why; just meeting her gaze made their confidence crumble.

Yan Ling’s glance caught Jin Yingyao off guard, causing him to reluctantly release his grip.

[This is too strange. It was clearly him who spread the rumor, putting me in such a difficult situation. Why would he pretend to be the good guy now?]

Jin Yingyao wanted to protest that he wasn’t pretending; he never intended for her to experience… all of this. However, he found himself unable to speak. The presence of those spectators, harboring filthy intentions towards her, were all consequences of his mistake.

His fault brought them into Yan Ling’s life.

What could he do to remedy and regain her trust?

Jin Yingyao felt as stiff as ice, yet with great effort, he managed to open his mouth, finally uttering from his throat, “I’m sorry…”

“It’s not your fault, Schoolmate Jin. Why should you apologize to me?” Yan Ling smiled, clearly dismissing the apology without any concern.

“It was me!” Jin Yingyao decided to openly admit his mistake, raising his voice for all to hear, “The one who posted that…”

However, Yan Ling interrupted him at that moment, “Schoolmate Jin, could you please step aside? I want to handle this matter myself.”

Yan Ling thought privately: [“Is admitting now that he was the poster just to alleviate his guilt? Even if he confesses, it’s too late. Everyone already believes I’m that kind of woman…”]

[“Yes, the description in the post wasn’t wrong at all. I truly am despicable, shameless, and promiscuous. I… I deserve to disappear, vanished forever…”]

Jin Yingyao stood stunned by Yan Ling’s thoughts, exclaiming, “No! You can’t…”

Yan Ling turned to look at him, the last bit of patience fading from her eyes, “Step aside.”

Jin Yingyao’s heart clenched under Yan Ling’s piercing gaze; he took two steps back, not wanting to further upset her at this moment. At the same time, he kept a vigilant eye on the surrounding students, ready to prevent any additional harm towards Yan Ling.

When Xiao Lingfei and his friends arrived, they witnessed this scene: numerous students had gathered around Yan Ling’s class, which remained eerily quiet as everyone watched her closely, eager to see how she would handle the situation.

After weeks of escalating rumors, most students present held little affection for Yan Ling, with many simply there to spectate or revel in the drama.

Despite the hostile atmosphere, the young girl maintained her poise. She continued to exude grace and beauty, so much so that even those who came intending trouble found themselves instinctively straightening up, preserving basic decorum, and refraining from uttering crude remarks aloud.

Lu Yifan made to step forward, but Gu Li stopped him with a shake of his head. Respecting her wishes was more important than offering ill-timed assistance.

Yifan pursed his lips, acutely aware of the emotions swirling around them. The amount of malice here was overwhelming; just seeing these people disgusted him, let alone allowing Yan Ling to interact with them…

Xiao Lingfei, unusually composed, meticulously memorized each and every face with great attention. He would not let any of these individuals who sought to humiliate Yan Ling go unpunished.

The young man who had questioned Yan Ling now bore a bruised and swollen face from being beaten up. Under Yan Ling’s gaze, his eyes shifted nervously, completely lacking the previous “courage.”

“You want to ask me out?” Yan Ling’s voice lacked its usual gentle sweetness, instead carrying a hint of chilliness.

Gathering some courage, the young man tried to respond confidently, but as soon as he opened his mouth, his words came out muddled. ”…Y-yes, I wanted to ask you out.”

“Your name, status, rank, family background, and your personal abilities,” Yan Ling fired off question after question.

“W-wh… why do you need to know all this…” Under Yan Ling’s scrutinizing gaze, which seemed almost mocking, the young man felt an urge to flee on the spot.

“Since you’re asking me out, shouldn’t you confidently showcase your ‘strengths’? Don’t you think it’s necessary for me to see what exceptional qualities you possess?” Yan Ling spoke calmly. “Surely you don’t believe… anyone can simply ask me out, right?”

The young man fell silent, feeling somewhat flustered.

Those who had anticipated witnessing Yan Ling’s embarrassment were taken aback by her question.

Yan Ling’s photos from various dates had been thoroughly scrutinized online. Notably, none of her date partners were below C-grade, and each possessed significant popularity or talent. Beyond their effusive praise for Yan Ling, they also actively defended her in forum replies. Given this level of support, who could deny Yan Ling’s adept social skills?

Yan Ling scanned the crowd. “I befriend those with abilities, but I do not tolerate trash. Why is there always someone, ordinary yet overconfident, thinking I would take interest in them? My upbringing forbids me from dating garbage. I hope everyone has self-awareness and refrains from such disrespectful behavior.”

A hush fell over the group.

Yan Ling’s words were unapologetically blunt, causing some boys’ faces to flush between pale and greenish hues. They wanted to lash out, but doing so would admit themselves as ‘trash.’ Ultimately, they could only glare angrily at Yan Ling and mutter under their breath, “Her good nature and temperament were all just facades… what college goddess… it’s fake…”

“Ha.” Xiao Lingfei gave his “fiancée” a thumbs-up, feeling much lighter as Yan Ling’s words dispelled his earlier discontent.

Gu Li looked visibly pleased, while Lu Yifan burst out laughing.

After speaking her mind, Yan Ling gathered her backpack and courteously bid everyone farewell. “I think Saint Hieria is no longer suitable for me now. Goodbye.”

Lu Yifan hastily said, “Lingling, I’ll go with you…”

“No need. I just want some time alone.” The young girl smiled and nodded at them, then resolutely left by herself.

Jin Yingyao attempted to follow her, but not only did Gu Li stop him, but Xiao Lingfei and Lu Yifan also prevented him from approaching Yan Ling.

“Her emotions are seriously off!” Jin Yingyao knew that Yan Ling appeared strong on the surface, almost overly so, but in reality…

Yan Ling thought to herself: [It’s time to leave. Being able to be true to myself in the end, there isn’t much… I regret.]

[Ivan and the others should finally feel reassured about me. With this departure, nobody will worry…]

Considering these thoughts accompanying Yan Ling as she left, Jin Yingyao felt a wave of fear just pondering what she might do next.

Considering Yan Ling’s mindset as she left, Jin Yingyao felt a wave of fear just pondering what she might do.

“I’ll handle this; no need for you to worry!” Xiao Lingfei angrily pushed aside Jin Yingyao. “Stay out of it! If you dare harass Lingling, I won’t hesitate to teach you a lesson!”

Jin Yingyao protested repeatedly, “It’s not harassment, I genuinely am concerned…”

Under their scornful gazes, Jin Yingyao fell silent. Given his past actions, how could they possibly believe him? He realized how absurd he sounded, expressing concern now… Would anyone trust him?

Even Yan Ling viewed him with such suspicion. What should he do?!

Yan Ling’s assertive response changed the opinions of many girls around her.

“It seems she’s not one of those fake sweethearts after all. That comeback was impressive…”

“Haha, I’ve always wanted to say something like that. No matter what, Yan Ling is still an A-grade student and the heir of the Yan family. Who would seriously think they could casually ask her out? Such entitled arrogance.”

“Pfft, audacious enough to ask how much Yan Ling charges per night? Does the Yan family seem short on money?”

Upon hearing these comments, the boy who had been punched flushed with humiliation and anger. Daring not to say another word, he attempted to slink away dejectedly.

Xiao Lingfei firmly grasped his shoulder, smiling. “Don’t leave yet, let’s continue chatting.”

The onlookers, initially captivated by Yan Ling, now regained their composure and noticed that all members of S4 were gathered here. Considering their identities and how they defended Yan Ling, any thoughts of causing further trouble vanished without a trace. Many students stealthily tried to slip out through the classroom’s rear door.

However, when Gu Li spoke up, those attempting to flee dared not move anymore. “There are surveillance cameras in this classroom,” he said. “Even if you leave now, I will still find each one of you.”

“Those simply here as spectators can return to their seats,” Gu Li continued. “As for anyone who insulted Yan Ling, I will be speaking with them individually.”

“No need for such trouble,” Lu Yifan addressed the crowd. “For those who have insulted Lingling, I will prosecute you under charges of defaming the royal family.”

In front of ordinary students, Lu Yifan had never flaunted his status, always presenting himself as warm and approachable. However, this time, when he turned coldly towards the crowd, everyone realized the astonishing aura emanating from the Grand Duke’s son, raised within the royal family. Compared to his usual demeanor, it was as if he had transformed into a completely different person.

The classmates who had spoken ill of Yan Ling immediately sucked in sharp breaths. Insulting the royal family… W-What does that mean? Yan Ling wasn’t any noble; isn’t such an accusation going too far?

Even Xiao Lingfei cast a surprised glance at Lu Yifan. “Yifan, you…”

“I have already sought permission from the queen. Yan Ling will be my future wife, and insulting my wife is no different from insulting me personally.” Lu Yifan showed no concern for the significant repercussions his words might cause. “Those who slander or harm my wife, I will pursue relentlessly.”

Xiao Lingfei stared, bewildered. Yan Ling was his fiancée—since when did she become Lu Yifan’s wife?

“Lu Yifan, you…” If not for the inappropriate setting, Xiao Lingfei would have been tempted to punch someone. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“My apologies, Xiao Lingfei,” Lu Yifan said with a hint of remorse. “Lingling and I are together now…”

This revelation left not only Xiao Lingfei and Gu Li stunned but also rendered the surrounding students speechless and wide-eyed.

Those who had previously enjoyed gossiping about Yan Ling privately now felt genuinely anxious.

Anything involving the royal family became serious business. Insulting the royals… was no longer just a simple joke between classmates.

The already badly beaten youth paled even further, stammering, “How could this be…”

Who would have thought Yan Ling would have such a connection with Lu Yifan?!

Jin Yingyao remained silent.

As someone who had known this information long before, Jin Yingyao now lacked any grounds to contest it. Whether it was Xiao Lingfei, Lu Yifan, or even Gu Li, each could openly express their affection towards Yan Ling. However, he alone found himself powerless to do anything.