CHAPTER 32: I LIKE HIM, REGARDLESS OF GENDER

This chapter is dedicated to @MissA. Thank you so much for your support! 🍨

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Yu Jingxuan and Father Nie became intoxicated, and as a result, the two Omegas assisted their respective Alphas in returning to their rooms.

Initially, Nie Zihang acted casually and carried Yu Jingxuan on his back as they ascended the stairs. However, when they reached the second-floor corridor, he changed to a princess carry, holding Yu Jingxuan in his arms.

His Alpha had a high alcohol tolerance and did not become boisterous or disruptive when intoxicated. In fact, apart from being more candid while under the influence, his Alpha remained largely unchanged from his usual self. Additionally, due to his Alpha status, Yu Jingxuan tended to be reserved and did not express himself openly, only revealing his true nature when he was inebriated.

Just like in the present moment, Nie Zihang embraced Yu Jingxuan, who willingly surrendered to his hold. Yu Jingxuan’s eyes, dark and radiant, gleamed as he gazed at Nie Zihang.

Like beholding the stars in the night sky.

Nie Zihang’s heart filled with warmth as he gently laid Yu Jingxuan on the bed and positioned himself beside him. “Yu Xiaoxuan, do you truly like me a lot?”

The Alpha nodded in affirmation and leaned closer, inhaling the scent of Yu Jingxuan’s neck, akin to a little animal. “Mmm, I really like you…”

Despite the Alpha sniffing at Nie Zihang’s glands, he harboured no concerns. His Alpha’s gentle nature was so pronounced that even initiating a kiss would evoke a sense of guilt within him. As for marking an Omega, Nie Zihang even questioned whether his Alpha knew how to utilise his canines.

The comforting pheromones of an Omega wafted from the back of Nie Zihang’s neck, and Yu Jingxuan nestled on top of him, holding onto him tightly like an octopus, his entire body yielding and supple.

Nie Zihang helplessly patted the Alpha’s buttocks: “No more rubbing, alright? Otherwise, I might just do it right here. My parents are sleeping downstairs, and the entire household will discover that you are a little kitten.”

Yu Jingxuan immediately refrained from any further movement.

Nie Zihang selected two sets of loungewear from the wardrobe, drew the curtains to create a sense of privacy, and attentively observed as Yu Jingxuan changed into the chosen attire. Once Yu Jingxuan was dressed, Nie Zihang took a blanket and draped it over him.

A cool breeze blew, causing the curtains to flutter gently in the wind, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow.

The Alpha’s once clear eyes started to gradually blur, and a subtle loss of control became evident in his upper and lower eyelids.

Nie Zihang continued to emit calming pheromones, softly caressing Yu Jingxuan’s back with his hand. He then leaned down and lightly nibbled on his lips.

“Go to sleep.”

“Mmm… Okay.”

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They savoured a relaxed lunch together, and after taking a nap, Nie Zihang woke up and glanced at the clock, only to realise that it was already past four o’clock.

The Alpha continued to rest peacefully in his arms, obediently nestled and sound asleep.

Yu Jingxuan is typically well-behaved when sleeping, without any issues. However, due to the influence of alcohol, he was now softly snoring.

His snoring sounded incredibly endearing.

Unable to resist, Nie Zihang planted a gentle kiss on the tip of the Alpha’s nose. The Alpha’s regular, gentle snoring paused momentarily before resuming softly.

After planting two kisses, Nie Zihang stopped, afraid of disturbing the peaceful slumber of the little fish.

With the utmost care, he lifted the blanket and got up, replacing it with his own pillow for Yu Jingxuan to hold onto.

Since the pillow still carried his pheromone scent, the slumbering little fish remained unaware that the person he was holding had been replaced. He continued to sleep soundly, embracing the pillow.

Nie Zihang opened the bedroom door and heard voices coming from downstairs, suddenly realising that there were guests in the house.

Dad Nie was seated on the sofa, enjoying some fruit and engaging in a cheerful conversation with someone, wearing a smile on his face.

“Our little one, Tongtong, caught sight of Zihang’s car and immediately knew that Zihang had returned. He expressed his desire to come and play with his big brother Zihang.”

“Well, Zihang has indeed returned. He had a glass of wine at noon and went to sleep.”

“Children often face a lot of work pressure, so when they finally have a break, it is crucial for them to get plenty of rest.”

“Ah, Hanghang did not drink too much. It was Old Nie who indulged. He was delighted to see Hanghang bringing an Alpha home, so he had a few extra drinks. Old Nie ended up getting drunk and even got Hanghang’s Alpha drunk. He did not know what to say.”

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Nie Zihang descended the stairs in his slippers and greeted the guests: “Uncle Chen, An Tong, you guys have arrived.”

After exchanging greetings, Nie Zihang took a seat next to his dad.

Uncle Chen, whose name was Chen Xiuwen, was an Omega and had resided as their neighbour for numerous years. While their bond was not exceptionally close, they encountered each other on a daily basis and had grown acquainted over time.

An Tong was the sole child in Uncle Chen’s household. He reached the age of 18 this year and is currently enrolled in his third year of high school.

When Chen Xiuwen’s family first moved in, Xiaodouding¹“Xiaodouding” was a term of endearment used to refer to a young child. In this context, it is used to affectionately refer to An Tong, the young child in Uncle Chen’s family, when they first moved in. was merely around ten years old and still attending primary school. Nie Zihang even assisted him with his homework for a period of time, resulting in a close relationship between them over the years.

Nie Zihang greeted the two people sitting across from him: “Uncle Chen, Antong.”

Then, he poured himself a cup of tea and leisurely sipped it while he began attending to messages on his phone.

Today being a statutory holiday, the work group that was pinned appeared even more vibrant and lively than usual.

His foolish disciple was at the forefront of the commotion in the group, enthusiastically urging him to send red envelopes.

There were a variety of emoji styles, ranging from an advertisement-like one that said, “This year, I do not want gifts; just give me red envelopes directly,” to a Lin Meimei²“Lin Meimei” is a fictional character commonly used in Chinese internet culture to depict a melodramatic or self-pitying demeanour, often associated with seeking attention or sympathy. In the context of the previous message, it refers to a specific style of expression that reflects a self-pitying or complaining tone reminiscent of the character Lin Meimei.-style expression of self-pity, such as “Other groups have it, but ours does not. It shows we are not appreciated.” The emojis covered a wide range of styles.

Nie Zihang, with a teacup grasped in one hand, employed the other hand to convey a message via voice recording: “Has everyone not received their Mid-Autumn Festival presents? Each person is entitled to two supermarket cards worth 100 yuan, a box of hairy crabs, and a box of peaches. Instead of accepting these gifts, you are requesting red envelopes. Kindly return the gifts to me, and I will exchange them for red envelopes.”

The following people responded:

[Boss, please reconsider! If we return the items, we will not be able to sell them at discounted prices. We are fortunate to have received them!]

[Whoever posted this lousy emoji, drag them out! Beat them to death with a stick!]

[It was sent by Chen Dong. @Chen Dong, you are the one who is shameless!]

Below was another row of “@Chen Dong, it is only you who is shameless.”

Nie Zihang’s lips formed a gentle smile as he promptly dispatched a random red envelope valued at 2,000 yuan. Emblazoned on the envelope’s exterior was a bold inscription that read, “A gift from Dad; spend it as you wish.”

A group of kids happily scrambled to grab it.

Nie Zihang paid no attention to them and proceeded to switch off the screen of his phone, setting it aside.

Observing this, Chen Xiuwen wore a smile and inquired, “Zihang, are you still occupied with work even on the occasion of the Mid-Autumn Festival?”

Nie Zihang shook his head and replied, “There is no work; they were simply attempting to convince me to distribute red envelopes.”

“That is right. Managing a large law firm is undoubtedly a demanding task. It must be particularly challenging for you as an Omega to navigate the external world independently. However, now that you have an Alpha by your side, you will not have to exert yourself as much anymore.”

Nie Zihang chose not to respond to the remark.

After all, there was a prevailing belief that once an Omega found an Alpha, societal expectations dictated that they would return home, enter into marriage, and focus on starting a family, often setting aside their professional aspirations, regardless of how promising their career might be.

However, Chen Xiuwen continued to express his thoughts aloud: “It is indeed essential for an Omega to find an Alpha. Our Tongtong has admired you since childhood. He even mentioned recently how cool Omegas like you, Zihang, are. I was worried that our child would turn out like you… Oh, if he becomes like you, what will uncle do… But now, things are looking up. Zihang has become a positive role model for our child.”

This statement could be considered somewhat objectionable or potentially disrespectful.

Both Nie Zihang and Dad Nie wore sombre expressions on their faces.

An Tong quickly sensed that something was amiss and promptly interjected, “Dad!”

Chen Xiuwen smiled and tenderly patted An Tong’s head: “What is the matter? Are Dad’s words not accurate? Have you not been influenced by Zihang?”

Dad Nie clenched his teeth in frustration and leaned forward, ready to engage in a heated argument with him.

Nie Zihang intervened calmly, preventing him from proceeding further.

Then Nie Zihang raised his eyelids slightly and composedly addressed the person sitting across from him: “My father and Dad have a strong bond, and I have been influenced by the AO combination since my early years. However, no one has influenced my preference for Omega. My personal inclinations, whether they are 1 or 0, are inherent. If I were easily swayed, my father would have changed my perspective long ago. Does Uncle Chen believe that I am unaware of how to bring happiness to my father and Dad? Or does he assume that after all these years, I am naturally inclined to rebel and oppose my father?”

After a brief pause, Nie Zihang questioned, word by word, “What is my objective here? Am I intentionally seeking to bring unhappiness to my parents?”

Chen Xiuwen was caught off guard and chose to remain silent.

In contrast, Dad Nie’s eyes welled up with tears.

He quickly smiled and tugged at Nie Zihang’s sleeve: “Alright, let us not say anything more. Your dad and father both know that you are a filial son. Regardless of whom you choose, as long as you are happy, we will be happy as well.”

Chen Xiuwen did not linger at Nie’s house for an extended period. Following a brief conversation, he took his leave.

An Tong expressed that he was currently in his senior year of high school and had some inquiries regarding selecting a university and a major. He decided to remain in order to seek advice from Nie Zihang.

In the living room, only Nie Zihang and An Tong remained.

“Brother Zihang, please do not be angry. My dad is older and has not had much education, so there are many things he does not comprehend. I apologise on his behalf.”

Nie Zihang popped a piece of cantaloupe³Am I the only one who is unfamiliar with what cantaloupe is?

Cantaloupe is a variety of melon that is renowned for its delightful and invigorating flavor. It possesses a spherical form with a textured, net-like skin and a succulent, orange-coloured flesh. Cantaloupes are frequently savoured as a fresh fruit and are also utilised in a diverse range of culinary creations, including salads, smoothies, and desserts. into his mouth and replied, “No need, I have already let out my frustration. Let us move on. So, what do you want to ask?”

An Tong handed over his tablet and directly dropped a document on him.

“I have been making preparations for studying abroad, and I now have my IELTS⁴IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. The test assesses the four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. results and school transcripts. I am currently in the process of selecting a country and a university. At the moment, I am considering A country, B country, and C country…”

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Given that choosing a school and a country was a significant decision, the two of them engaged in a lengthy conversation to thoroughly discuss the matter.

It was not until after five o’clock, when the sun was visibly setting, that they concluded their conversation.

Dad Nie stepped out to invite An Tong for dinner, but An Tong politely declined: “Thank you, Uncle, but I need to head back. My dad is waiting for me at home.”

Nie Zihang stood up and accompanied An Tong to see him off.

As they reached the doorstep, An Tong placed his hand on the doorknob and glanced at Nie Zihang, appearing hesitant as if he wanted to say something.

“Is there something else?” Nie Zihang asked.

An Tong pressed his lips together, displaying a troubled expression as if he had something on his mind.

After a moment of contemplation, An Tong finally spoke up: “I thought you would not seek out an Alpha.”

Nie Zihang smiled and replied, “I thought the same before I met him.”

“Why though…”

“There is no need to ask why. When you meet someone and it feels right, then just be together. It is not about liking an Alpha as a gender, but rather liking him as a person. Yu Jingxuan is Yu Jingxuan. Whether he is an Omega, a Beta, or an Alpha, I would still like him.”

The Omega lowered his gaze slightly.

Nie Zihang maintained a calm demeanour as he looked at An Tong and said, “You will come to understand in the future. When you genuinely care for someone, their gender becomes inconsequential.”

“Even if it means being marked and having children for him, does it not matter?”

“As long as he desires it.”

An Tong appeared to be deeply affected by a significant blow. His once flushed complexion instantly paled.

He staggered, appearing to be on the verge of collapsing.

“Brother Zihang… Actually, I really like you. You are aware of that, so that is why you are rejecting me, right?”⁵Sorry, An Tong, Brother Nie’s heart is fully occupied by a little fish. Better luck in your next existence.

Nie Zihang shook his head indifferently: “No, I am afraid that he will secretly feel disgusted when he sees me talking too much with a little Omega, so I will take the opportunity to express my feelings to him, so as not to make him feel uncomfortable and keep it to himself without telling me.”

After speaking, he crossed his arms and hugged himself, turning his head to look at the corner of the staircase.

There, the recently awakened Alpha stood, dressed in the same style of casual home attire as Nie Zihang, with only half of his head visible as he quietly listened to their conversation.

As if just realising what Nie Zihang said, he quickly recoiled like a startled rabbit, making a “swoosh,” and retreated.

Only on the bottom step, a pair of small, round cotton slippers were left behind.

The author has something to say:

I want to add a sentence: this country, ‘abc,’ is really not something I made up, hahaha. Originally, I wrote the real name, but then I thought it was a fictional world, so I just used the initials. As a result, it became ‘abc2333333.’

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ienij:

Me, talking to myself:

Me: Hmm, can I send someone named Chen Xiuwen to planet Pluto?

Also, me: You can. However, please note that sending them to planet Pluto is currently not possible, as it is no longer considered a planet in our solar system.

Me: … right.

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The final countdown is approaching; are you prepared? There are just four chapters left on the journey. And if we throw in some bonus content, that would bring it to a solid eight.

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New series announcement:

Along with “Mr. Rong’s Lovelorn Diary,” I am also picking up “The Cub I’ve Raised Is The Crown Prince Of The Empire” and will start translating it from chapter 54, right where the previous translator left off on CG. The new novel page will be submitted later.

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• 1
  “Xiaodouding” was a term of endearment used to refer to a young child. In this context, it is used to affectionately refer to An Tong, the young child in Uncle Chen’s family, when they first moved in.
• 2
  “Lin Meimei” is a fictional character commonly used in Chinese internet culture to depict a melodramatic or self-pitying demeanour, often associated with seeking attention or sympathy. In the context of the previous message, it refers to a specific style of expression that reflects a self-pitying or complaining tone reminiscent of the character Lin Meimei.
• 3
  Am I the only one who is unfamiliar with what cantaloupe is?
  
  Cantaloupe is a variety of melon that is renowned for its delightful and invigorating flavor. It possesses a spherical form with a textured, net-like skin and a succulent, orange-coloured flesh. Cantaloupes are frequently savoured as a fresh fruit and are also utilised in a diverse range of culinary creations, including salads, smoothies, and desserts.
• 4
  IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. The test assesses the four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
• 5
  Sorry, An Tong, Brother Nie’s heart is fully occupied by a little fish. Better luck in your next existence.