Xiao Ming's phone rang inconveniently.
"It's Fatty," he muttered.
"Hello… what is it…" Xiao Ming rubbed his eyes, still groggy.
"Ming bro! It's done!" Fatty's excited voice came through the phone. "That bastard Zhang Tian was so scared he came begging me this morning!"
Xiao Ming perked up, a smile curling at the corner of his lips. "Oh? Tell me."
"Last night, I sent him some photos of his dad and his mistress, plus his half-brother's school address," Fatty said proudly. "I was even gonna call his mom, but that bastard called me at 3 a.m. begging me not to expose him. He said he'd do anything."
Xiao Ming sat up and stretched. "Ha, he's not completely hopeless."
"Of course! He's waiting at the school gate now, said he wants to apologize to Lin Xiaoxiao in person and promised never to bother her again." Fatty laughed. "I gotta say, Ming bro, you're amazing. Just a few words and he's wrapped around your finger!"
Xiao Ming chuckled. "Alright, I'll head to school now."
Just as he hung up and yawned, about to wash up, the system voice rang out.
"Ding! Main quest triggered: [School Bully Turnaround], Phase One complete! Villain Points +5000!"
Xiao Ming blinked. "That counted as complete?"
The system replied lazily, "You won the female lead's heart and defeated the original male lead, successfully altering the world's storyline. Of course it's complete."
"Wait, Zhang Tian was the male lead?" Xiao Ming asked, surprised.
"In the original plot, yes," the system explained. "He was supposed to save Lin Xiaoxiao by the lake, win her heart, and rise to campus legend status. But you derailed everything and crushed him."
Xiao Ming laughed. "What about Lin Jie? What role did she play?"
"Supporting role. Originally, she was the jealous, malicious cousin who tried to sabotage Lin Xiaoxiao and was eventually exposed by Zhang Tian, ruining her life."
Xiao Ming raised an eyebrow. "That's so cliché."
"Cliché but classic," the system said. "Almost every school novel does this. But now, everything has changed."
"What happens to this world now?"
The system paused. "Unknown. You've broken the original path. The future is now completely unpredictable."
Xiao Ming smiled. "Interesting. If I get both Lin Xiaoxiao and Lin Jie, does that count as full completion?"
"Technically… yes," the system replied awkwardly. "But don't get cocky. The next world will be harder."
"Then let's handle this one first." Xiao Ming got up, washed, and sent a message to Lin Xiaoxiao: "Good morning. I have a surprise for you. Meet me at the school gate."
At the university gate, Zhang Tian stood with his head down, looking like a beaten dog. When he saw Xiao Ming approaching, a trace of fear and bitterness flashed in his eyes.
"You're here, Xiao the Big Villain," Zhang Tian said with a bitter smile.
Xiao Ming stopped, puzzled. "Big villain?"
Zhang Tian looked up with a complicated gaze. "Don't pretend. I know you're not ordinary. You've ruined everything… this isn't how it was supposed to go."
Xiao Ming was startled. Could this guy be a transmigrator too?
As if reading his thoughts, Zhang Tian shook his head. "I'm not a transmigrator. I just… sometimes see glimpses of the future. I was supposed to save Lin Xiaoxiao and become the school's rising star."
Xiao Ming laughed. So he was one of those characters with vague "future sight" abilities but didn't realize he was inside a novel.
"Fate can be changed—as long as you're strong enough," Xiao Ming said flatly.
Zhang Tian looked at him deeply. "Maybe. But from the moment I decided to push Lin Xiaoxiao into the water, everything changed. It felt like something was manipulating me to make choices I wouldn't normally make."
Xiao Ming smirked inwardly. That was the system's power—interfering with causality. He patted Zhang Tian's shoulder. "Enough. Lin Xiaoxiao will be here soon. You know what to say, right?"
Zhang Tian clenched his teeth. "Yeah."
Soon, Lin Xiaoxiao and Lin Jie arrived. Lin Xiaoxiao instinctively hid behind her cousin when she saw Zhang Tian.
Lin Jie stared coldly. "Why are you looking for my sister?"
Zhang Tian took a deep breath and bowed deeply. "I'm sorry, Lin Xiaoxiao. My past behavior was unforgivable. I promise I'll never bother or threaten you again, nor cause any trouble for you or Xiao Ming."
Lin Xiaoxiao stared in shock, unsure what to say.
Lin Jie crossed her arms. "Who told you to come?"
Zhang Tian glanced at Xiao Ming. "I realized it on my own. I did wrong and should apologize." Then he turned to Xiao Ming. "I won't interfere with your lives anymore."
Xiao Ming nodded in satisfaction. "Wise choice."
Zhang Tian gave Lin Xiaoxiao one last look filled with regret, then walked away.
Lin Xiaoxiao turned to Xiao Ming, confused. "What did you do? Why did he suddenly…"
Xiao Ming patted her head. "Men have their own way of communicating. It's over now—he won't bother you again."
Lin Jie looked at Xiao Ming thoughtfully. "I'm starting to believe you're not simple."
Xiao Ming smiled at the sisters. "Come on, breakfast is on me."
At the breakfast shop, Lin Xiaoxiao happily munched on her bread, her eyes curved into crescent moons. "Xiao Ming, you're amazing!"
Xiao Ming smiled and wiped the crumbs from the corner of her mouth with a napkin. "Slow down, no one's stealing it from you."
Lin Jie quietly sipped her coffee, occasionally glancing at Xiao Ming and her cousin. She was dressed in a simple white blouse and jeans, her hair tied casually into a ponytail—clean-cut and capable.
"Xiao Ming," Lin Jie suddenly spoke, "do you still do background investigations?"
Xiao Ming paused. "Why do you ask all of a sudden?"
"Our department recently partnered with an investment company. We need to run background checks on a few partners," Lin Jie said, looking him in the eye. "I figured if you could dig up dirt on Zhang Tian that fast, you must be good at it."
Lin Xiaoxiao's eyes widened. "Sis, are you asking Xiao Ming for help?"
Lin Jie nodded slightly. "If he's willing, we'll pay him well."
Xiao Ming stroked his chin, a flicker of interest in his eyes. "I'm open to it, but I have a condition."
"What condition?"
"You'll be my personal contact." Xiao Ming smirked. "I'll only deal with you."
Lin Jie blinked, then quickly regained composure. "Fine, but don't try anything funny."
"Wouldn't dare," Xiao Ming said with a mock-wounded expression. "You're way too sharp for me to mess with."
Lin Xiaoxiao glanced between them and burst into laughter. "You two are hilarious."
Lin Jie cleared her throat, a bit uneasy. "Let's stay on topic, Xiaoxiao." She pulled a USB drive from her bag and handed it to Xiao Ming. "Here's the basic info on the targets. I want as much detail as possible, especially any criminal records or debt issues."
Xiao Ming pocketed the drive. "Got it. When's the deadline?"
"Three days," Lin Jie replied. "The sooner the better."
Xiao Ming raised a brow. "Then I'll need extra pay."
Lin Jie sighed. "Fine. Add 30%."
"Now we're talking." Xiao Ming grinned.
After breakfast, Lin Jie left for class, leaving Xiao Ming and Lin Xiaoxiao to walk toward the lecture hall together.
"Xiao Ming," Lin Xiaoxiao tugged on his sleeve, "do you… like my sister too?"
The question came out of nowhere. Xiao Ming nearly choked. "Huh? Why do you ask that?"
"I can tell. The way you look at her—it's different," she pouted.
Xiao Ming laughed internally. Sharp little thing. He gently pinched her cheek. "Silly girl. And how do I look at you?"
Lin Xiaoxiao blushed. "I… I don't know…"
Xiao Ming leaned down and whispered in her ear, "I'll make sure you feel it, bit by bit."
His warm breath tickled her ear, and Lin Xiaoxiao froze, her face as red as a ripe apple.
"Hey now, don't get the wrong idea. I wouldn't dare like your sister—she's scary," Xiao Ming joked with a mock-scared face.
Lin Xiaoxiao relaxed, laughing as she lightly punched his shoulder. "Nonsense. My sister's not scary. She just looks cold, but she's really kind."
Xiao Ming nodded. "Yeah, I know. I was teasing you." He took her hand. "Let's go. We'll be late."
Lin Xiaoxiao lowered her head, holding his hand tightly, her heart filled with sweetness.
"Oh right," Xiao Ming suddenly remembered, "are you free this weekend?"
Lin Xiaoxiao nodded. "Yeah. Why?"
"Come with me to meet someone," Xiao Ming said with a mysterious smile.
"Who?"
"You'll know when we get there." Xiao Ming patted her head. "You'll love it."
That evening, Xiao Ming sat in front of his computer, going over the info Lin Jie had given him. The people weren't too complicated—mostly small business owners wanting to collaborate on projects with the school.
"System, help me look up these people," Xiao Ming said in his mind.
"Ding! Information query requires 1000 Villain Points. Proceed?"
Xiao Ming frowned. "That much?"
"Information is power," the system replied matter-of-factly. "You think I'm omnipotent? This stuff costs energy."
Xiao Ming sighed. "Fine, check one."
"Ding! 1000 Villain Points deducted. Querying target: Zhao Minghui."
Seconds later, Xiao Ming's screen was flooded with data on Zhao Minghui—from his birth date to education, marital status to finances, even monthly expenses and private life habits.
"Damn, this is thorough," Xiao Ming said, astonished.
"Of course," the system said smugly. "We villains never cut corners."
As Xiao Ming browsed, something caught his eye. "This guy has two wives? One in Beijing, one in Shanghai, both with kids?"
"A classic scumbag," the system commented. "He's planning to launder money through the school project."
Xiao Ming smirked. "That's worth 1000 Villain Points. Lin Jie will be very interested."
He picked up his phone and dialed Lin Jie. "Senior, I have good news and bad news. Which do you want first?"
She seemed busy. "Keep it short. Both."
"Good news is, I've got Zhao Minghui's file. Bad news—he's shady and unfit to work with," Xiao Ming said plainly.
"So fast?" Lin Jie sounded surprised. "It's only been a few hours."
Xiao Ming smiled. "Details tomorrow. Free tonight? I want to tell you in person."
She paused. "Fine. 8 p.m., same place."
"Great. Don't be late." Xiao Ming hung up and leaned back in his chair, satisfied.
The system chimed in. "You're really trying to win over both sisters, huh?"
Xiao Ming chuckled. "Isn't that what villains do?"
"True," the system agreed. "So, what's the plan for this world? When will you move on to the next?"
Xiao Ming thought for a moment. "Not yet. I'm not done having fun—and I still need more Villain Points. At least enough to buy the Eye of Insight."
"Fair enough." The system suddenly reminded him, "Aren't you taking Lin Xiaoxiao to meet that 'person' tomorrow? You ready?"
Xiao Ming smiled mysteriously. "Everything's set. Just waiting for the final touch."
The next evening, Lin Jie arrived at the designated café right on time. She wore a fitted black dress under a light-colored coat—professional yet full of feminine charm.
Xiao Ming was already there. When he saw her come in, he stood and gestured for her to sit. "Senior, still as beautiful as ever."
Lin Jie raised an eyebrow and shot him a glare. "Cut the nonsense. Let's get to the point."
Xiao Ming smiled and pulled out a folder from his bag, handing it to her. "Zhao Minghui. On the surface, a legit businessman. In reality, a complete fraud. Two families, a pile of debt, and suspected of money laundering."
Lin Jie skimmed the documents, her brow furrowing deeper with each page. "How did you find all this?"
Xiao Ming shrugged. "Trade secret."
Lin Jie set the documents down and looked at him seriously. "I looked into you. Xiao Ming isn't your real name, is it?"
Xiao Ming's heart skipped a beat, but he kept calm. "Senior, you investigated me?"
"Professional habit," Lin Jie said, staring at him. "Who exactly are you? Why did you suddenly show up in my cousin's life?"
Xiao Ming picked up his coffee and took a slow sip. "What if I said I'm here to protect her?"
"Protect her?" Lin Jie laughed. "No, you have other intentions."
Xiao Ming leaned in slightly and lowered his voice. "Then what about you, Senior? What are your intentions toward me?"
Lin Jie froze, her face turning slightly red, but she quickly composed herself. "Don't change the subject."
"Alright," Xiao Ming leaned back in his chair. "You're right—Xiao Ming isn't my real name. But who I am doesn't matter. What matters is, I mean no harm to your cousin. In fact, I genuinely like her."
Lin Jie stared at him for a long moment, as if trying to gauge the truth in his words. "I hope so. But I'm warning you—if you hurt her, I won't forgive you."
Xiao Ming smiled. "It's touching how much you care about her."
"She's pure and easily hurt," Lin Jie said. "Unlike me—I've long gotten used to how cruel people can be."
Xiao Ming looked intrigued. "Sounds like you've been through a lot."
Lin Jie didn't respond, instead picking up the folder. "What about the others?"
"Still digging, but Zhao Minghui is definitely off the list."
Lin Jie nodded. "Thanks. I'll make sure you get paid." She stood, ready to leave.
Xiao Ming suddenly grabbed her wrist. "No need to rush off, Senior. Let's chat a bit more."
Lin Jie looked down at his hand but didn't pull away. "About what?"
Xiao Ming smiled. "Like, what do you think of me?"
Lin Jie finally pulled her hand back, her voice slightly tense. "I don't think anything of you."
"Really?" Xiao Ming stood and stepped closer. "Because the way you look at me says otherwise."
Lin Jie stepped back slightly but held her gaze. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Xiao Ming didn't press further. He simply chuckled. "Alright. If you don't want to say it, I won't push. By the way, I'm taking Lin Xiaoxiao out tomorrow. Want to come?"
"Where to?" Lin Jie asked cautiously.
"It's a surprise." Xiao Ming winked. "Totally legit, I swear. You can come and supervise."
Lin Jie hesitated, then nodded. "Fine. What time?"
"2 p.m. I'll come pick you both up."
"Alright." Lin Jie turned and left the café.
Xiao Ming watched her back and smiled. "System, do you think I can win both sisters?"
"Do you even need to ask?" the system scoffed. "With your personality, if you don't, you're not Xiao Ming."
"Hahaha, exactly." Xiao Ming stood. "How's tomorrow's plan sound to you?"
"Solid. Boosts intimacy with Lin Xiaoxiao and gives you a chance to test Lin Jie's attitude," the system commented. "But be careful—Lin Jie isn't easy."
Xiao Ming smirked confidently. "The tougher, the better. Let's go prep for tomorrow's big show."
On the weekend afternoon, Xiao Ming arrived at the villa where the Lin sisters were temporarily staying.
Lin Xiaoxiao wore a light blue dress—cute and cheerful. Lin Jie had on a white T-shirt and jeans—simple but stylish.
"Where are we going? So mysterious," Lin Xiaoxiao asked curiously.
Xiao Ming smiled mysteriously. "Get in and you'll see."
The three got into the car Xiao Ming had arranged. Twenty minutes later, they arrived in front of a pet adoption center.
"A pet shelter?" Lin Xiaoxiao asked in surprise.
Xiao Ming nodded. "A friend of mine works here. There's an adorable kitten I think you'll like."
"Really?" Lin Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. She grabbed his hand and hurried inside.
Lin Jie shook her head and followed behind.
Inside, a bespectacled boy greeted them. "Xiao bro, you're here."
"Yeah. Is the kitten still here?" Xiao Ming asked.
"Yep, just got a bath. Nice and clean." The boy turned. "Come with me."
They entered a small room with a pet bed inside. A white kitten lay there napping. Hearing the noise, it opened its bright blue eyes and meowed.
"Wow! So cute!" Lin Xiaoxiao cried, crouching to gently pet its head.
The kitten purred happily and rubbed its head against her hand.
"Seems like it really likes you," Xiao Ming said with a smile.
Lin Xiaoxiao picked up the kitten, who curled up in her arms and licked her fingers.
"This is a Siamese, about three months old. Very smart breed," the boy said. "The previous owner had to move and couldn't take it, so it ended up here."
"I love it so much," Lin Xiaoxiao turned to Xiao Ming. "Can we really take it home?"
Xiao Ming patted her head. "If you like it, it's yours. I already handled the paperwork."
"Really?" Lin Xiaoxiao's eyes went wide. "Thank you, Xiao Ming!" She threw her arms around him—kitten squished between them—letting out a startled "meow," which made all three laugh.
Lin Jie stood aside, watching them with a complex expression.
Noticing her gaze, Xiao Ming gently let go of Lin Xiaoxiao and walked over. "What do you think, Senior? Like the kitten?"
Lin Jie nodded slightly. "It's cute."
"Want to hold it?" Xiao Ming signaled for Lin Xiaoxiao to pass it to her.
Lin Xiaoxiao handed the kitten over. Lin Jie held it carefully. The kitten snuggled into her arms and closed its eyes contentedly.
"Looks like it likes you too," Xiao Ming said.
Lin Jie actually smiled. "It is quite cute."
"Do we have your approval to keep it?" Xiao Ming asked.
Lin Jie hesitated. "Having a pet is a responsibility. Are you two sure you can handle it?"
"I'll take good care of it!" Lin Xiaoxiao promised. "Please, sis?"
Looking into her cousin's hopeful eyes, Lin Jie finally nodded. "Alright. But you're in charge of taking care of it."
"Yay!" Lin Xiaoxiao jumped for joy, then turned to Xiao Ming. "Thank you! You're the best!"
Xiao Ming smiled. "Seeing you happy makes me happy." He looked at Lin Jie. "You too, Senior."
Lin Jie pretended not to hear the last part and handed the kitten back. "Give it a name."
Lin Xiaoxiao thought for a bit. "Let's call it 'Xiao Bai'!"
Xiao Ming and Lin Jie laughed. "That simple?"
"Simple is easy to remember!" Lin Xiaoxiao said confidently.
The three left the shelter with "Xiao Bai" and went shopping for pet supplies—food, litter, bedding, etc.
By the end of the day, Lin Xiaoxiao was overjoyed like a child. Even Lin Jie looked noticeably more relaxed.
Back at the villa, while Lin Xiaoxiao set up the kitten's new home, Lin Jie pulled Xiao Ming aside.
"Thank you," she said softly. "It's been a long time since I've seen her so happy."
Xiao Ming smiled. "No need to thank me. Seeing you two happy makes me happy."
Lin Jie looked at him seriously. "Are you really serious about her?"
"Are you interrogating me now, Senior?" Xiao Ming teased.
"I'm just looking out for her," Lin Jie said quietly.
Xiao Ming's expression turned sincere. "I am serious about her. But…"
"But what?" Lin Jie pressed.
Xiao Ming stepped forward. The space between them suddenly shrank. "But I'm serious about you too."
Lin Jie was stunned. A blush crept up her cheeks. She stepped back. "Don't talk nonsense."
Xiao Ming didn't press, only chuckled. "You don't believe me?"
Lin Jie avoided his gaze. "I don't want to talk about this."
"Alright, we won't," Xiao Ming said, changing the topic. "By the way, I've finished investigating the other people. I'll send you the info tomorrow."