Chapter 66: A Chill in the Heart

First-class merit?

As Xiao Yu walked out of the provincial hall’s meeting room, he was engulfed by a surreal feeling. He couldn’t help but think the world was unreal, irrational.

It was well known that the provincial department wasn’t authorized to issue such medals. Yet, not only were they awarded today, but there was also a collective first-class merit given to the Bincheng Criminal Investigation Team.

Standing nearby, Zhao Changshan also seemed to be in a daze as if he were dreaming.

Regaining his composure, Xiao Yu turned to Wang Dong with a complex expression. 

Yes, the provincial department couldn’t award such medals, but the National Security had the authority.

His scalp tingled with a mix of apprehension and bewilderment, still unsure about the reason behind this unexpected stroke of luck. He remained cautious, thinking perhaps it was a system reward, which he could accept since it fell within his understanding.

“There’s still much to do regarding the major body smuggling case,” Wang Dong explained. “The state doesn’t neglect its meritorious servants. The case was uncovered by your team and solved by you. Awarding the merit in advance poses no issue. By the way, you’re a police officer now? A second-class merit typically results in a one-level promotion. First-class merit is more significant, it allows for an exceptional promotion by two ranks. You’re being promoted by three ranks in total. Are you happy?” 

Happy?

Xiao Yu frowned and looked at Wang Dong. “This isn’t the right procedure. Even if I’ve earned it, the medal shouldn’t be coming from you. What’s really going on?”

“Talking to a smart person sure saves effort,” Wang Dong said with a smile. “Are you interested in joining National Security?”

Xiao Yu was silent.

Zhao Changshan’s expression darkened as he coldly looked at Wang Dong. 

‘Poaching right in front of me, does National Security think they’re something special? Think I won’t make a scene?’

But then, Zhao Changshan’s anger swiftly faded. What must come will come, after all. 

Had it only been a month, and already they couldn’t keep the dragon in their brigade?

Zhao Changshan knew the bureaucratic system well enough not to block Xiao Yu’s advancement. Compared to his criminal investigation team, a future in National Security was undoubtedly brighter.

Before Zhao Changshan could wallow in regret or sadness, the young man spoke up.

“I’m sorry.” Xiao Yu shook his head. “But I’m not interested.”

He truly wasn’t interested. If it was just about climbing ranks or getting rich, wouldn’t resigning and being supported by his sister be far more appealing? Why bother with policing at all?

Xiao Yu’s tone was nonchalant.

Zhao Changshan felt uneasy, thinking, ‘Is this kid not right in the head?’

“I knew it.”

Wang Dong wasn’t surprised by Xiao Yu’s response. They had discussed this a few days earlier, and he knew Xiao Yu was unlikely to leave Bincheng any time soon.

“Let’s cut to the chase,” Wang Dong’s expression turned serious. “I came here to present you with a medal, but I also need to ask for your help with something.”

“I’m not interested.”

Without another word, Xiao Yu turned and walked away.

Was anything involving national security ever a small matter? They were asking for help because they couldn’t handle it themselves. Wouldn’t that make anyone’s skin crawl?

“The case it’s very peculiar,” Wang Dong said with a tone of resignation.

Peculiar?

Xiao Yu paused.

Curiosity wasn’t just a woman’s burden. Men were equally drawn by the unknown.

To hear words like ‘peculiar’ from a national security agent piqued his interest even more. Now he was intrigued.

***

On the flight back, Xiao Yu held a small USB drive in his hand, which contained all the files regarding a major case.

Wang Dong had cautioned him when handing over the USB drive. It was for his eyes only, and not to be viewed by others. Otherwise… well, you know the drill.

Warnings from national security were no laughing matter. 

Xiao Yu decided not to look at it just yet. His sister was cooking at home, waiting for him to return. Some cases, once reviewed, might just spoil your appetite.

***

In the afternoon, upon returning home, Xiao Yu saw two dishes and a soup on the dining table.

Under Mu Qingwu’s expectant gaze, he picked up his chopsticks. There was a plate of scrambled eggs, a plate of smashed cucumbers, and a large bowl of… something unidentifiable as soup.

His sister’s scrambled eggs hadn’t shown much improvement. The cucumbers were not only sweet but exceedingly sour. As for the soup, one sip was all it took for Xiao Yu to nearly lose his composure despite his twenty-two years of gastronomic experience.

It was confirmed.

Mu Qingwu might be a business tycoon, but her culinary skills could probably be outdone by a grade-schooler.

“Is it delicious?” Mu Qingwu propped her chin in her hands and blinked her beautiful eyes expectantly.

“It’s an improvement.” 

Xiao Yu found himself especially hypocritical at that moment.

“Then finish it all.” Mu Qingwu smiled, her eyes curving into crescents.

Xiao Yu nodded and dug in, eventually cleaning every last bit of his wife’s cooking off the plates.

Mu Qingwu was momentarily taken aback. She was well aware of her culinary limits. Her taste buds didn’t lie.

“Why?” Mu Qingwu’s eyes shimmered with moisture.

“Because it was made by you,” Xiao Yu replied, setting down his utensils with calm affection.

“Fool!”

Casting aside her reserve, Mu Qingwu lunged into her brother’s arms. Xiao Yu broke into a silent, wide grin.

“Let’s wait until it’s warmer,” Mu Qingwu murmured softly, “and then have the wedding.”

A spark of excitement lit up Xiao Yu’s eyes.

‘Has she decided to commit to me?’ 

Suddenly inspired by a bold idea, Xiao Yu scooped her up and headed toward the bedroom.

“Brother!” Mu Qingwu stuttered slightly.

“What?” Xiao Yu was already caught up in the moment.

“My period has started,” Mu Qingwu suppressed a giggle.

In an instant, Xiao Yu felt as if he had turned to stone, nearly collapsing on the spot.

The fear for a boy isn’t finding no toilet in his dreams. It’s waking up and not finding the toilet soon enough. And when a man grows up, his greatest fear is gearing up for battle only to discover the field has long been a river of blood.

His heart went cold, oh so very cold!