Yue Shi picked up some groceries on his way home.
He was hungry, so he spent some time in the kitchen preparing a meal. Once he had eaten his fill, he headed straight to his bedroom to rest without even washing the dishes.
A lot had happened over the past two days. First, he had noticed Niu Xiaohui’s abnormality, then Zhong Mo had been attacked that same night, and early the next morning, Yue Shi had encountered the strange behavior of Old Man Qin.
Where had things gone wrong?
Yue Shi pondered for a while but couldn't find a clear lead.
The next day, he woke up early and headed out directly after a quick wash.
The room next door was still in a state of ruin. The mess left behind by Cai Zetao remained uncleaned.
The landlady, Mrs. Bai, hadn't shown her face for many days. Considering she often used to spend time with Old Man Qin, it was likely she was in grave danger.
He took a taxi to the company. Before clocking in, Yue Shi stopped at a nearby bun shop for breakfast. By coincidence, Zhong Mo was also there, currently paying his bill.
“Hey,” Yue Shi greeted him.
“Morning,” Zhong Mo replied. He was wearing a grey tracksuit; the otherwise plain clothes somehow looked high-end on him.
Yue Shi ordered six buns, but when he went to pay, the cashier told him that Zhong Mo had already covered it.
Yue Shi raised an eyebrow, then turned to catch up with Zhong Mo. Walking side-by-side, he whispered, “Thanks.”
Zhong Mo nodded. Neither of them spoke further, eating as they walked. However, Zhong Mo’s gaze was filled with scrutiny, and he occasionally stole glances at Yue Shi as if he were looking at some rare and exotic beast.
It wasn't until they entered the company’s office building and stepped into the elevator that Yue Shi finally couldn't help but ask, “Why do you keep staring at me? Did I miss a spot while washing my face?”
Zhong Mo rubbed the bridge of his nose, the awkwardness of being caught in the act flashing across his face. He cleared his throat, his tone slightly unnatural and laced with a hint of testing. “I heard about what happened to you yesterday.”
“Oh,” Yue Shi replied flatly.
Zhong Mo seemed to harbor some suspicions regarding the deaths of those police officers, but seeing Yue Shi’s cold attitude, he found it difficult to press further.
They entered the office, and soon, the rest of the team arrived.
Zhou Zhiheng, sporting heavy dark circles under his eyes, gave a brief check-up on Zhong Mo’s condition before clapping his hands together. “Everyone, get ready. Our group is continuing the investigation into the Heart Thief today.”
The team immediately began organizing their equipment. Right then, Bai Qingyu suddenly lost her footing, stumbling and nearly crashing to the floor.
Fortunately, Zhao Lin caught her just in time.
“Sister Qingyu, are you okay?”
Bai Qingyu pushed Zhao Lin away and shook her head.
The commotion drew the attention of everyone in the office. It was only then that they noticed Bai Qingyu—who usually dressed impeccably—now had sunken cheeks and a sallow complexion. Only her eyes were unnaturally, frighteningly bright.
“Xiao Bai, if you’re not feeling well, you can take a leave of absence. There’s no need to force yourself,” Zhou Zhiheng said with concern.
The nature of work at Tulip Security Company was unusual; working while ill might not only be unhelpful but could also be a liability. If an employee were injured or killed, the company would have to pay compensation.
But Bai Qingyu insisted, “I’m fine. I was just lost in thought and didn’t look where I was going.”
Zhou Zhiheng frowned. “You don’t look fine at all. What on earth were you thinking about so intensely that you weren’t even watching the road?”
Bai Qingyu brushed her hair back and gave a slight smile, a flash of inexplicable excitement in the depths of her eyes. “I was contemplating the relationship between humanity and nature!”
“Huh???” Everyone present was stunned, unable to comprehend why the topic had suddenly jumped to such a high-minded level.
“Oh, you wouldn't understand even if I told you. But if anyone is interested, I don’t mind taking some time to explain this new philosophy. I think it’s very applicable to today’s society...” Bai Qingyu seemed eager to continue.
Zhou Zhiheng immediately waved his hand. “Enough. It’s working hours now. Save your personal hobbies for after work.”
Bai Qingyu gave a sheepish smile and said no more.
The team gathered their gear and headed downstairs. Once the car started moving, Yue Shi leaned against the window, watching the scenery outside.
Zhong Mo, sitting upright beside him, suddenly spoke, his words like a bolt from the blue. “I’ve likely determined where the Heart Thief is.”
“What?!” Zhou Zhiheng’s heart jolted. With a look of shock, he hurriedly asked, “How do you know?”
Zhong Mo simply said, “I have my own information channels; it’s not convenient to disclose them.”
Zhou Zhiheng replied, “Alright then, let’s talk about the intelligence on the Heart Thief.”
Zhong Mo still refused. “The Heart Thief’s ability is quite unique. I’m afraid of spooking the target. To avoid any unforeseen complications, please follow my lead from here on.”
“No problem.” Zhou Zhiheng handed over command without hesitation.
“Head to Niu Xiaohui’s house immediately,” Zhong Mo instructed the driver.
“Yue Shi and I will take action later. The rest of you just provide support from the back.”
Yue Shi had no objections. He also suspected Niu Xiaohui was problematic; he just wasn't as certain as Zhong Mo.
His gaze swept over everyone in the car. Aside from himself, Yue Shi didn't quite trust anyone right now. Yesterday’s incident with Old Man Qin had left him with a strong sense of wariness. That supernatural creature could disguise itself as a human, and even detection equipment couldn't pick it up. Who knew if there was a monster in this very car?
Over twenty minutes later, the car stopped in an alley outside a dilapidated residential building.
Yue Shi and Zhong Mo got out and walked into the building. The others followed closely behind, maintaining a set distance to provide backup.
Standing at the door to Niu Xiaohui’s home, Zhong Mo reached out and knocked.
“Who is it?” a lazy voice called from inside. It was Niu Xiaohui’s father.
“We’re employees from Tulip Security Company. In light of what happened to your daughter, we’ve raised a donation fund for her. We’re here to deliver it now. Please open the door.”
Zhong Mo made up a lie on the spot, his hand gripping a card, ready to strike.
Yue Shi keenly noticed that the card depicted a black silhouette brandishing a cleaver, with the word 【Kill】 written at the top.
A rustling sound came from inside the room. After a moment’s wait, the disheveled Mr. Niu opened the door. He didn't invite them in, simply holding out his hand and asking, “Where’s the money?”
“Where is your daughter, Niu Xiaohui?” Zhong Mo countered.
Mr. Niu said, “She’s resting, it’s not convenient for her to see anyone. Just tell me whatever it is. After all, I’m her father and her guardian.”
But Zhong Mo insisted, “We must see her in person before we can release the donation.”
Mr. Niu’s brow furrowed slightly. “Then forget it. Xiaohui’s condition really isn't good.”
Zhong Mo was momentarily at a loss for words, unsure of what reason to use to continue.
Yue Shi suddenly spoke up. “As far as I know, Niu Xiaohui’s father is a rather greedy man. To turn away money offered freely... that doesn't seem like something you would do!”
As soon as the words left his mouth, Zhong Mo’s expression shifted, and the card in his hand shot forward.
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