Xiao Ming returned to his place with the USB drive Lin Jie had given him and casually tossed it onto the table. He stretched with a lazy yawn. These past two days of dealing with the Lin sisters had been exhausting—but fruitful.
"System, how'd I do this time?" Xiao Ming flopped onto the sofa, propping his chin up with one hand as he asked.
This time, the system's voice sounded a bit different, vaguely sultry: "Not bad. Your methods were cliché, but at least the plot moved forward."
Xiao Ming raised an eyebrow. "Eh? Why does your voice sound different now?"
"Hmph, that's because you've accumulated so many villain points. Naturally, the system needs an upgrade too." The voice was indeed softer than before, even slightly flirtatious. "With the upgrade, I've gained more emotional simulation functions. So, do you like it?"
Xiao Ming chuckled. "I like it. This voice could make my ears pregnant."
"Get lost!" the system snapped. "Be serious. What are you planning next? Both Lin sisters have a good impression of you—planning to go for both?"
A glint flashed in Xiao Ming's eyes. "Of course. A villain has to be ruthless—how could I let either one go? Though... it won't be easy."
"I have a suggestion," the system said after a moment. "Want to activate the [Mall System]? You can spend villain points to buy certain items that'll help you conquer targets more smoothly."
Xiao Ming perked up. "A mall? What's in it?"
Ding! "Mall System activated. Welcome, dear host~" The system's voice abruptly became sugary sweet, like a department store salesgirl.
A virtual interface appeared in Xiao Ming's mind, filled with dazzling items. "Damn, so many?"
"To meet all of the host's desires, of course." The system's voice dripped with honey. "See anything you like?"
Xiao Ming browsed through the list: Love Perfume, Telepathy Earrings, Memory Modifier, Invisible Monitor... a wide range of bizarre tools.
"What's this 'Heartbeat Bracelet'?" he asked, pointing to an item priced at 5000 villain points.
"Oh, that," the system explained, "when gifted to a target, it increases their affection toward the giver and allows the giver to sense the wearer's emotional fluctuations."
Xiao Ming thought for a moment. "I'll take it. Two of them."
Ding! "10000 villain points deducted. Heartbeat Bracelet ×2 stored in system space."
"So expensive. What a rip-off," Xiao Ming muttered.
The system snorted. "Whether you use them or not is your business. Buy it or leave it."
Xiao Ming smiled, pulling out two delicate silver bracelets from the system space. The chains were fine and adorned with tiny heart pendants—simple yet elegant.
"Nice, Lin Xiaoxiao will love it. As for Lin Jie..." He rubbed his chin. "Might think it's too girly—but I've got a plan."
He set the bracelets aside and picked up the USB drive from the table, plugging it into his computer. It contained detailed documents on several companies. He skimmed through them quickly and used the system to gather more information on a few individuals.
"This Wang Deming is dirty—bribes officials, evades taxes." Xiao Ming took notes. "And this Li Jianhua looks clean on the surface but had an attempted rape charge in the past, covered up with money."
Once organized, he checked the time—nearly 10 p.m. He grabbed his phone and messaged Lin Jie: Senior, I've finished investigating the others. Free to meet tomorrow?
Soon, Lin Jie replied: 3 p.m. tomorrow at the coffee shop by the east gate?
Perfect. See you then, he responded.
Then he messaged Lin Xiaoxiao: Kitten, still awake? How's Little White?
She quickly replied: Not asleep yet. Little White's so well-behaved, curled up on my pillow! [Photo]
In the photo, the white kitten was curled up on the pillow, Lin Xiaoxiao's long hair scattered nearby. The soft strands mixed with the cat's fur, giving the scene a subtly sensual feel.
Xiao Ming replied with a smile: So cute—both the kitty and her owner. Free this weekend? I'll take you somewhere nice.
Yes yes! Where are we going? Lin Xiaoxiao sounded excited.
Secret. You'll see. Xiao Ming replied. Rest well. Sweet dreams.
Goodnight! Mua~ she sent a kiss emoji.
Xiao Ming set down his phone and stretched. "System, think I can get both sisters?"
The system paused. "Theoretically, yes. But it'll be difficult. Lin Jie isn't as naive as Lin Xiaoxiao—she's cautious, slow to trust."
"The harder they are, the more fun it is," Xiao Ming smirked. "Besides, I've already found her weakness—her cousin."
"What's your plan?" the system asked curiously.
Lying in bed, Xiao Ming tapped the edge of the mattress. "I'll make Lin Xiaoxiao completely dependent on me. As for Lin Jie... I'll show her my worth while awakening her inner desires. Everyone has a hidden darkness. I just need to bring it out."
He closed his eyes. "This is only the beginning."
The next afternoon, Xiao Ming arrived at the café twenty minutes early and chose a window seat. He wore a dark blue shirt and a black casual blazer, appearing more mature and composed than usual.
He ordered two coffees—an Americano and a caramel latte.
Lin Jie arrived right on time. She was wearing a beige trench coat over a simple black turtleneck sweater, exuding an intellectual elegance.
"How did you know I like caramel lattes?" Lin Jie looked at the coffee on the table, slightly surprised.
Xiao Ming smiled. "Just a guess. From your usual style, you probably like something sweet but not too childish. So, caramel latte. Looks like I guessed right."
Lin Jie sat down and took a sip. "You're quite observant."
"I always pay extra attention to you," Xiao Ming said, looking her in the eyes with a hint of flirtation.
Lin Jie avoided his gaze and opened the folder in her hand. "Let's get to the point. What did you find?"
Xiao Ming dropped the joking tone and handed her the files he had prepared. "These people all have issues. Wang Deming has bribery records. Li Jianhua has a history of sexual misconduct. Zhang Guoqiang looks like a legit businessman, but he's actually a loan shark—several people who owed him money have jumped off buildings."
As Lin Jie skimmed the documents, her brows furrowed tighter and tighter. "This many problems? And our department mentor found these kinds of scumbags to work with?"
"Where there's profit, there will always be parasites," Xiao Ming said lightly. "Who's your department mentor?"
"Professor Chen Ming," she replied, then suddenly looked wary. "You're not saying he's involved too, are you?"
Xiao Ming sipped his coffee. "Don't you find it odd? A professor picks these questionable businessmen as partners—he's either blind, or..."
"Do you have any proof?" Lin Jie asked, staring straight at him.
Xiao Ming shook his head. "Not yet. Just a hunch. But if you want the truth, I can look into it."
Lin Jie fell silent for a while, then said, "Do it. I want to know what's really going on."
Xiao Ming nodded. "It might take some time. People at that level are harder to investigate."
"That's fine. The more thorough, the better." She paused. "Thank you, Xiao Ming."
"No need to be so formal, Senior." He smiled and pulled a small box from his pocket, pushing it toward her. "A little gift."
Lin Jie looked surprised. "What is it?"
"Open it and see."
She opened the box to reveal a silver bracelet. Unlike the original design, this one was simpler, and the pendant was a feather instead of a heart.
"This is...?" Lin Jie picked it up, puzzled.
"I saw it and thought it suited you—simple yet elegant, just like you."
The system muttered in Xiao Ming's mind, "When did you change the heart pendant to a feather?"
"Last night. Hearts are too tacky—not right for someone like Lin Jie," he replied mentally.
Lin Jie hesitated. "Thank you, but this is too much. I can't accept it."
Xiao Ming waved it off. "Think of it as thanks for introducing me to the job. It's not that expensive, just a regular bracelet."
Lin Jie was about to refuse again, but Xiao Ming had already taken the bracelet and gently grabbed her wrist. "Here, let me put it on."
She tried to pull away, but his warm palm held her still. His fingers brushed the inside of her wrist, making her heart skip a beat.
In just a few seconds, Xiao Ming had fastened the bracelet. Lin Jie looked down—under the sunlight, the silver chain sparkled softly. It really did suit her.
"Thank you," she said quietly, a faint blush rising on her cheeks.
Xiao Ming smiled, secretly pleased: Got it. Now I can sense her emotions. Calm on the surface, but definitely stirred inside.
"By the way, got any plans this weekend?" he asked casually.
Lin Jie put the documents away. "Why?"
"I'm taking Lin Xiaoxiao somewhere. Wondered if you'd like to join us."
"Where?"
"A nice place to relax," Xiao Ming said with a mysterious smile.
"Nothing weird, I hope?"
"Of course not," he laughed. "It's a farm estate—fruit picking, hot springs, beautiful scenery."
Lin Jie considered it for a moment. "All right. I'll go."
"Great!" Xiao Ming grinned. "I'll pick you both up at nine on Saturday morning."
After parting ways with Lin Jie, Xiao Ming returned home in high spirits. Through the Heartbeat Bracelet, he could sense Lin Jie's wariness gradually softening. Though she still seemed aloof, her heart had already begun to warm to him.
"System, I'll give the other bracelet to Lin Xiaoxiao when we meet tomorrow," Xiao Ming mused. "Working both lines at once is more efficient."
"You really are a playboy," the system scoffed. "Aren't you afraid of it all blowing up in your face?"
"Relax, I know what I'm doing. A villain should always move forward."
After a pause, the system asked, "Are you treating them like prey... or do you actually like them?"
Xiao Ming lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, his expression unreadable. "Who knows? Maybe it started as a game... but feelings can grow."
"Classic scumbag line," the system sneered.
Xiao Ming laughed. "What, jealous? Don't worry, you'll always be special to me."
"Quit the nonsense!" the system huffed, though its tone held a hint of delight.
Xiao Ming smiled and closed his eyes. Tomorrow he'd meet Lin Xiaoxiao, and the day after would be their weekend trip. Everything was going according to plan. He needed rest.
Friday afternoon, Xiao Ming waited for Lin Xiaoxiao at the central fountain square on campus. The May sunlight was perfect—not too hot, not too cold. A light breeze carried the fragrance of blooming flowers.
From a distance, he saw Lin Xiaoxiao bouncing toward him. Her long hair danced in the wind like a moving painting. Today, she wore a light blue dress—fresh and lovely. From afar, she looked like a little sprite.
"Xiao Ming!" she waved at him happily from afar, her face glowing with a cheerful smile.
Xiao Ming couldn't help but smile and waved back. "Over here!"
Lin Xiaoxiao ran up, slightly out of breath, her cheeks flushed. "Sorry! The teacher held us back after class. Did you wait long?"
Xiao Ming gently ruffled her hair. "No worries, I just got here too."
They walked side by side along the campus path. Rose bushes bloomed on either side, and the sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting mottled shadows on the ground.
"Are you ready for the farm tomorrow?" Xiao Ming asked.
Lin Xiaoxiao nodded, her eyes sparkling. "Yep! I already packed. I heard there's a hot spring, so I brought my swimsuit too."
At the mention of a swimsuit, an image of Lin Xiaoxiao in a bathing suit popped into Xiao Ming's mind. He couldn't help but glance at her—petite though she seemed, her figure was surprisingly well-proportioned.
"Hey, what are you thinking about?" Lin Xiaoxiao caught his look and blushed, lightly slapping him.
Xiao Ming coughed to cover up his embarrassment. "Nothing. Right, I have something for you."
He took a small box from his pocket and handed it to her. "A little something."
Lin Xiaoxiao took the box in delight. "What is it?" She eagerly opened it and saw the silver bracelet inside. Her eyes instantly lit up. "Wow! It's beautiful!"
The bracelet sparkled in the sunlight, and the small heart pendant caught the eye. Lin Xiaoxiao carefully picked it up, reluctant to put it down.
"Do you like it?" Xiao Ming asked, though he could already feel her excitement through the Heartbeat Bracelet.
"Love it! I love it so much!" she exclaimed, then handed the bracelet back to Xiao Ming. "Can you help me put it on?"
Xiao Ming took the bracelet and gently grabbed her slender wrist. Her skin was pale and soft, the touch delicate. As his fingers brushed the inside of her wrist, he could feel her pulse quicken.
Lin Xiaoxiao was clearly nervous, her breathing shallow, but her eyes were full of anticipation. Xiao Ming fastened the bracelet with practiced ease, deliberately brushing her wrist a few more times.
"All done," he said, releasing her wrist, though his gaze lingered. "It really suits you."
Lin Xiaoxiao looked at the bracelet on her wrist and shook her arm happily. "Really? I love it! Thank you, Xiao Ming!" Then, standing on tiptoe, she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek.
The sudden kiss caught Xiao Ming by surprise, but he quickly reacted. He grabbed her shoulders and looked into her eyes. "Next time, aim for the lips, okay?"
Her face turned bright red. She didn't know where to look and lowered her head. "You… you're awful…"
Xiao Ming laughed heartily and let go of her. "Just teasing. Come on, I'll treat you to something delicious."
They had dinner at a small restaurant outside campus. During the meal, Lin Xiaoxiao kept glancing at her bracelet, clearly fond of it. After dinner, Xiao Ming walked her home to the villa.
At the villa gate, Lin Xiaoxiao was reluctant to part. "What time are you picking us up tomorrow?"
"Nine in the morning," Xiao Ming replied. "Be ready."
Lin Xiaoxiao nodded. "Okay. Then... see you tomorrow?"
Xiao Ming smiled and pinched her cheek. "See you. Get some good rest."
Watching her go inside, Xiao Ming turned and left, feeling great. Suddenly, the system spoke in his mind. "You're not worried this might blow up in your face?"
"Relax. I've got it under control," Xiao Ming said confidently. "Besides, a villain should always move forward without fear."
The next morning, Xiao Ming drove to the Lin sisters' villa. Lin Xiaoxiao was already waiting at the gate in a pink dress with a ponytail, the bracelet gleaming on her wrist. She looked full of energy.
"Morning, Xiao Ming!" she waved enthusiastically.
"Morning." Xiao Ming smiled back. "Where's Lin Jie?"
"My sister's still packing. She'll be out soon."
Sure enough, not long after, Lin Jie walked out. She wore a light blue blouse and white slacks—clean and stylish. On her wrist was also the bracelet Xiao Ming had given her.
Xiao Ming noticed the detail and was secretly pleased: Looks like she values my gift after all.
"Sorry to keep you waiting," Lin Jie said curtly, putting her luggage into the trunk.
The three of them got into the car, and Xiao Ming drove toward their destination—Yunding Farm, a high-end estate on the outskirts of the city offering fruit picking, hot springs, and lodging in a scenic environment.
On the way, Lin Xiaoxiao chattered nonstop, keeping the mood light. Through the Heartbeat Bracelets, Xiao Ming could feel Lin Xiaoxiao's excitement and anticipation, while Lin Jie remained cautious and curious.
About an hour and a half later, they arrived. Before them spread wide fields of orchards and flower beds. In the distance stood several wooden cabins scattered on a hillside.
"Wow! So beautiful!" Lin Xiaoxiao gasped, her eyes wide.
"Not bad," even the usually composed Lin Jie couldn't help but compliment.
Xiao Ming smiled. "I booked two cabins. One for you two, one for me. Let's drop our stuff off, then we can start picking fruit."
After checking in, they went to the cabins nestled on the hillside. The interior was cozy and minimal, with large windows framing views of the lush forest and fresh mountain air.
They changed into light clothing and headed to the strawberry fields—just in time for peak season. The place was buzzing with guests.
Basket in hand, Lin Xiaoxiao darted through the strawberry field like an excited child. Xiao Ming and Lin Jie took a more leisurely approach, choosing ripe ones.
"This place is really nice," Lin Jie said as she picked. "How'd you find it?"
Xiao Ming chuckled. "You two work and study hard all the time. I thought you needed a break. And well, spending a weekend with two beauties—what an honor."
Lin Jie shook her head but couldn't help smiling faintly. "Smooth talker."
Xiao Ming stepped closer and lowered his voice. "Only with you, Senior."
Lin Jie shot him a glare, but through the bracelet, Xiao Ming sensed she wasn't actually annoyed.
"Jie! Xiao Ming! Come see these strawberries—huge ones over here!" Lin Xiaoxiao called from nearby.
They walked over to find a patch of plump, red strawberries.
Lin Xiaoxiao picked an especially big one and handed it to Xiao Ming. "Try it!"
He took a bite. "Mmm, sweet and juicy. Not bad."
Lin Xiaoxiao giggled and held another one up to Lin Jie's mouth. "You try too!"
Lin Jie hesitated, then took a bite. "Very sweet."
After picking strawberries, they visited the vegetable garden and harvested fresh greens. At lunch, they enjoyed a farmhouse-style meal, including the produce they had just picked—fresh and delicious.
After a short rest, Xiao Ming suggested going to the hot springs. The estate had both public and private options—they chose a private one, surrounded by bamboo groves.
"I'll go change first," Lin Jie said, pulling Lin Xiaoxiao along.
"Okay, let's meet in twenty minutes," Xiao Ming nodded.
Back in his cabin, Xiao Ming changed into swim trunks and a bathrobe. He arrived early to the hot spring—a clear pool surrounded by mist and peace.
Soon, the Lin sisters arrived. Lin Xiaoxiao wore a pink one-piece—conservative, yet highlighting her curves. Lin Jie wore a black bikini under a sheer robe—mature and slightly seductive.
Xiao Ming's gaze lingered for a second before he smiled casually. "The water's perfect. Come on in."
The three of them eased into the steaming pool. The heat relaxed their bodies completely. Lin Xiaoxiao, clearly enjoying her first hot spring experience, swam around excitedly. Lin Jie quietly leaned against the edge, eyes closed.
Xiao Ming leaned back in the hot spring, enjoying the rare moment of peace. Through the Heartbeat Bracelets, he could feel Lin Xiaoxiao's joy and excitement—it was almost overflowing. Lin Jie, on the other hand, was more complex. Although she appeared calm, her emotions fluctuated slightly, revealing both relaxation and a faint tension.
After soaking for a while, Lin Xiaoxiao suddenly suggested, "Let's play a game!"
Xiao Ming raised an eyebrow. "What game?"
"Truth or Dare!" she declared with a grin. "Just the three of us, it'll be fun!"
Lin Jie opened her eyes. "Are we back in middle school?"
"Oh, come on, sis!" Lin Xiaoxiao pouted. "Just a little fun, we're all here to relax!"
Lin Jie sighed. "Fine. But keep it clean."
"Of course!" Lin Xiaoxiao clapped her hands happily. "I'll go first. Xiao Ming—truth or dare?"
Xiao Ming smirked. "Truth."
Lin Xiaoxiao thought for a moment, then asked, "Have you ever liked someone... but pretended you didn't?"
Xiao Ming looked at her and said meaningfully, "Yes."
Lin Xiaoxiao blinked, seeming a little surprised, but then smiled sweetly. "Okay, your turn to ask!"
Xiao Ming turned to Lin Jie. "Truth or dare?"
"Truth," she said without hesitation.
Xiao Ming smiled. "What type of guy do you like?"
Lin Jie looked at him, then glanced away. "Someone reliable. Steady. Not too flashy... and someone who respects boundaries."
"Sounds like a good guy," Xiao Ming said with a chuckle. "Not someone like me, huh?"
Lin Jie glanced at him again, but said nothing.
The game continued for a while with more lighthearted questions, and gradually, the atmosphere grew more relaxed. Even Lin Jie started to show traces of a smile.
After the soak, the three returned to their cabins to change. As night fell, the lights of the estate flickered like stars in the distance. The quiet countryside, the clean air, and the warmth of companionship all made the night unusually peaceful.
Back in his cabin, Xiao Ming lay on the bed, reviewing the day's progress. Lin Xiaoxiao had practically melted into his palm, while Lin Jie, though still reserved, had clearly started to soften. The Heartbeat Bracelets were proving more effective than he'd imagined.