MVCFO CH37

The next morning, Lin Xiangqi woke up feeling discomfort in his throat and a slight stinging sensation in his mouth.

Before he could even react, Lu Cong had already handed him hot water and medicine. Normally, this wouldn’t be a big deal—Lu Cong always knew what he needed, so Lin Xiangqi would simply take whatever was given to him and consume it.

But this time, Lin Xiangqi saw Lu Cong stuffing two packs of throat lozenges, a bottle of cough syrup, a bottle of Fritillaria and Loquat Syrup, and a bunch of other miscellaneous throat-related items into his backpack. He couldn’t help but laugh and asked hoarsely, “Why are you bringing all this? I’m not sick—these won’t help. And you’re bringing way too much.”

Lu Cong glanced at him quickly, an uncharacteristically awkward expression flashing across his usually calm face. “It’s not heavy.”

Lin Xiangqi narrowed his eyes and said, “Oh, alright then. Bring it all—just in case I need it.”

Lu Cong lowered his gaze. “Mm.”

“Lu Cong,” Lin Xiangqi suddenly called out.

Lu Cong looked at him.

“I don’t want to walk,” Lin Xiangqi said, sitting on the bed with the thick winter quilt pushed aside. He lazily raised his arms. “Carry me.”

Strangely, Lu Cong felt that something between him and Lin Xiangqi had changed. Though they’d already been intimate more than once, Lin Xiangqi’s attitude had always been the key to everything. He knew Lin Xiangqi’s sudden initiative must have a reason, but Lu Cong couldn’t think of a plausible explanation.

Lu Cong bent down and picked him up.

Lin Xiangqi naturally wrapped his legs around Lu Cong’s waist, resting his face against Lu Cong’s neck. He brushed against the cold neck ring and muttered, “Just wait. I’ll help you take this off.”

Lu Cong paused and asked, “…How?”

Lin Xiangqi hemmed and hawed for a while before finally biting Lu Cong’s earlobe lightly and saying, “I’m still figuring it out. Don’t rush me.”

Of course, Lu Cong wasn’t in a hurry because the neck ring didn’t really affect him much.

Lin Xiangqi didn’t understand—he thought the neck ring was like handcuffs or shackles, binding Lu Cong. But in reality, given Lu Cong’s abilities, breaking it wouldn’t be difficult if he really wanted to.

The neck ring existed to reassure those around him, nothing more.

But Lu Cong was curious.

He was curious why Lin Xiangqi had suddenly developed the idea of “definitely helping him remove the neck ring,” and whether Lin Xiangqi’s recent changes were related to this.

Lu Cong’s instincts weren’t wrong.

Lin Xiangqi’s odd behavior became increasingly obvious, and he had become very well-behaved.

This wasn’t just reflected in his studies but also in their interactions.

When he couldn’t sleep well at night, Lin Xiangqi would toss and turn, seeking Lu Cong’s embrace. At school, he no longer feared gossip and would actively hold Lu Cong’s hand. When Lu Cong tutored him, he no longer got distracted. After being praised, he would take the initiative to kiss Lu Cong.

Lin Xiangqi had become clingy, transitioning naturally from holding hands and hugging to kissing. He had also become more considerate, starting to care about whether Lu Cong was cold, hot, hungry, or tired—something remarkable given Lin Xiangqi’s typically careless and absent-minded approach to life, where he barely even took care of himself.

On top of that, he had abandoned his previous tsundere tendencies and started occasionally saying very straightforward, flirtatious things in everyday conversations.

While doing homework, he would suddenly look at Lu Cong and say, “I want a kiss.”

Or before bed, he would ask, “Do you want to do it today?”

Though sometimes he overdid it, making intimate remarks sound as stiff as reading lines from a script, Lu Cong’s heart would still race—so it wasn’t a waste.

What gave Lu Cong the biggest headache was Lin Xiangqi’s sudden interest in cooking.

Lu Cong had long spoiled Lin Xiangqi to the point where he only had to open his mouth to be fed and stretch out his arms to be dressed. Lin Xiangqi had never considered cooking to be his responsibility.

On one hand, Lu Cong’s cooking skills were so good that they had spoiled Lin Xiangqi’s palate, making him lose interest in ordinary food. On the other hand, Lin Xiangqi had a history of incidents—like cutting his hand while peeling potatoes, rubbing his eyes after handling garlic, and running around the house in agony after breaking chili peppers barehanded—so Lu Cong generally kept him out of the kitchen.

But one day, before the alarm even went off, Lu Cong was woken up by the choking smell of smoke. He rushed downstairs to find Lin Xiangqi flipping a spatula in the kitchen.

Lu Cong watched as he scorched two eggs black, then secretly dumped them out, wearing a frustrated expression as he pulled out his phone to watch a tutorial on making simple fried eggs. His eyes learned, but his hands still struggled when it came time to cook. Lu Cong found it somewhat amusing but mostly exasperating.

Lu Cong could tell—Lin Xiangqi was trying hard to learn how to be good to him.

Though Lin Xiangqi had never been particularly bad to Lu Cong, he had never actively done anything for him, especially in daily life, where he had always relied on Lu Cong.

Lin Xiangqi’s sudden efforts inevitably made people think he was trying to repay Lu Cong for his past care, attempting to treat Lu Cong with the same tenderness and attentiveness.

But he was so bad at it that his efforts came off as clumsy.

It was also possible that after learning about Lu Cong’s inability to attend university, Lin Xiangqi felt too guilty and wanted to make it up to him in other ways.

Lu Cong leaned against the kitchen doorway, arms crossed, watching as Lin Xiangqi’s eyes turned red from the smoke. He really wanted to step in and help, but in the end, he didn’t say a word.

He didn’t know what to say.

Though he was the smartest, the steadiest, and the best at handling unexpected situations, he was now also the most tongue-tied.

When Lin Xiangqi, looking dejected, poured out the entire pan of oil, he suddenly sensed someone behind him. Guiltily turning around, he saw no one at the kitchen door.

Thank goodness.

He secretly rejoiced that Lu Cong hadn’t caught him wasting eggs.

Lin Xiangqi had been visiting Tang Luyu’s hospital for two weekends in a row.

Lu Cong accompanied him every time, and Lin Xiangqi never refused or tried to hide anything from him.

But once at the hospital, Tang Luyu would arrange for Lu Cong to undergo various tests, including checks on his pheromone levels. If Lu Cong resisted, Lin Xiangqi would stare at him with such a pitiful expression that he had no choice but to comply, even though he felt perfectly fine.

This time, another hour was wasted. Lu Cong removed the various monitoring devices attached to him and nodded to the doctor recording the data.

“Where’s Director Tang?” he asked, though what he really wanted to know was Lin Xiangqi’s whereabouts.

The doctor replied, “In her small office, with the young man who came with you.”

Lu Cong nodded in thanks and left.

Tang Luyu had several offices, taking advantage of the fact that the hospital was her own to arrange things as she pleased. Lu Cong knew where the so-called small office was and headed straight for the elevator.

When he arrived, he noticed the door wasn’t closed, just slightly ajar. As he raised his hand to knock, he heard Lin Xiangqi’s voice from inside.

Still as naive and straightforward as ever, Lin Xiangqi asked the most surprising question in the most innocent tone—

“Since a permanent mark affects both parties’ pheromones, does that mean if Lu Cong and I ever get permanently marked, his pheromones won’t be as strong as before?”

Lu Cong’s hand froze mid-air.

Before he could figure out how to face Lin Xiangqi after such a question, his body made the decision for him. He silently took half a step back, standing behind the slightly open door without alerting the people inside.

Lin Xiangqi and Tang Luyu in the office had no idea someone was outside, engrossed in their lively discussion.

Tang Luyu was first shocked that Lin Xiangqi could so casually bring up the possibility of a permanent mark with Lu Cong. But she suppressed her gossipy instincts and explained the matter professionally.

“If it were with another Omega, there would indeed be a possibility of pheromone interference—meaning, when lower-level pheromones mix with higher-level ones, they can neutralize the special attributes of the higher-level pheromones. For example, the fusion of an Extremely Superior and an Inferior would most likely result in both parties’ pheromones becoming Inferior. But there’s also about a ten percent chance that both could become Superior or Extremely Superior.”

“This issue still doesn’t have a definitive conclusion. Research institutes and pheromone development centers are continuously conducting experiments. Generally, though, for superior genes to continue and evolve, the purity of their pheromones must be maintained. Once mixed with others, interference is inevitable.”

Lin Xiangqi listened intently and quickly grasped the key point: “But both Lu Cong and I are Extremely Superior, and our pheromones have a 100% match rate. In this case, can’t we ensure the purity of our pheromones?”

Tang Luyu nodded approvingly. “Understanding this saves me a lot of explanation. You’re right—your situation with Lu Cong is different. First, as Extremely Superior Alpha and Omega, both of your pheromones are strong enough that fusion wouldn’t interfere with each other. Studies show that for Extremely Superior couples, the biggest change after a permanent mark is the scent—the special attributes and abilities remain unaffected.”

Lin Xiangqi let out a sigh of relief.

Tang Luyu added, “Another noteworthy point is your 100% match rate with Lu Cong. This is unprecedented, so there are no prior cases for reference. But based on data and experience, I have every reason to believe that your pheromones’ fusion will only benefit each other. Lu Cong’s genes are undoubtedly robust, but both his parents were Extremely Superior Alphas with highly aggressive tendencies, which means Lu Cong inherited the most unstable aspects of their pheromones. A permanent mark with you could provide the stability he currently needs most.”

In short, if Lu Cong and Lin Xiangqi were to undergo a permanent mark, the long-standing concern about Lu Cong’s rut cycles would be resolved effortlessly.

After listening, Lin Xiangqi lowered his head, pursing his lips as if deep in thought.

Tang Luyu noticed his habit of picking at his fingers—something he usually did when struggling with a difficult decision.

It wasn’t hard to guess what Lin Xiangqi was thinking. If Tang Luyu were solely acting as Lu Cong’s doctor, she would undoubtedly encourage Lin Xiangqi to go through with it. A permanent mark would eliminate the major hidden risks in Lu Cong’s body, and given Lu Cong’s excellent family background and character, being with him would only bring benefits, not drawbacks, for Lin Xiangqi.

But Tang Luyu couldn’t bring herself to say it.

She felt Lin Xiangqi was too young. Unless it was a life-or-death situation, she didn’t think Lin Xiangqi should rush into using this method to “save” Lu Cong.

Tang Luyu decided neither to encourage nor discourage him, opting instead to objectively explain the pros and cons: “But nothing is ever 100% certain. I can share my own experience with you as a reference.”

Lin Xiangqi looked at her: “Your experience?”

“You probably know that I used to be an Extremely Superior Omega. After undergoing a permanent mark with an Inferior Alpha, my pheromones were disrupted.” Tang Luyu refilled Lin Xiangqi’s teacup, speaking casually, as if she weren’t recounting a painful story but merely sharing life advice. “Now, though I’m not Inferior, I’m far from Superior. My pheromones can no longer be used in medical treatments.”

Perhaps because Tang Luyu’s tone was too calm, Lin Xiangqi didn’t sense any pain in her words—only curiosity: “Why?”

Logically, Tang Luyu had studied medicine since her teens and had worked in the field ever since. She must have understood the consequences of a permanent mark. Why had she still chosen to do it?

Tang Luyu, surprisingly, looked at him in astonishment: “You’re not going to curse that Alpha first?”

Lin Xiangqi: “Why would I?”

“Because most people, upon hearing this, instinctively assume I wasn’t willing. They think some shameless Inferior Alpha must have tricked or even forced me, leading to my downfall—”

As she spoke, she couldn’t help but laugh. “He’s been cursed at for years. No matter how much I explain, everyone still thinks I’m just putting on a brave face, convinced I was victimized.”

Lin Xiangqi studied her for a long moment before suddenly setting down his cup and gently hugging Tang Luyu.

Tang Luyu stiffened, then slowly asked, “What’s wrong?”

Lin Xiangqi whispered, “You seem a little sad.”

Tang Luyu let out a dry laugh: “Nonsense. I just wanted to use my own experience to remind you—don’t just think about Lu Cong. Think about yourself too. Disruption isn’t just about going from Extremely Superior to Inferior. Even if your pheromone scent changes from coconut milk to something awful like gunpowder, that’s still a kind of disruption.”

Lin Xiangqi didn’t respond, still hugging her and patting her back as if comforting her.

Tang Luyu, while denying her sadness, forced a composed smile and asked, “Why do you think I’m sad?”

Lin Xiangqi answered succinctly: “You’ve been laughing the whole time.”

Logically, it wasn’t something worth laughing about. Even if Tang Luyu truly didn’t care, she should have just recounted it calmly. But her laughter was too bright.

Tang Luyu sighed: “Laughing means I’ve long since moved on. How can you say I’m sad?”

Lin Xiangqi: “You’re laughing because you’re afraid of being seen through.”

Tang Luyu: “Goodness, you’re so young—why overthink things? That’s really not it. You’re projecting emotions onto me, haha. I’m just talking about you and Lu Cong.”

Lin Xiangqi paused, then said, “I do this too.”

Tang Luyu: “…What?”

Lin Xiangqi explained: “Because sometimes I laugh like you do, so I know.”

Tang Luyu was stunned for a moment before sighing: “Fine, you got me. I am a little sad.”

“Is it because of that Alpha you permanently marked with?” Lin Xiangqi asked.

Tang Luyu: “Mm.”

Lin Xiangqi: “What did he do?”

Tang Luyu said: “He died.”

Lin Xiangqi immediately regretted asking: “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. It’s been almost ten years. I’ve forgotten all about it.”

Tang Luyu even comforted Lin Xiangqi. “Honestly, the permanent mark was indeed impulsive on my part. I was reckless, even crazy, but I don’t regret it. Back then, I thought my pheromones could save him…”

Lin Xiangqi froze: “Save him?”

“Yes. My pheromones had strong healing properties. At the time, I already knew his illness couldn’t be cured by conventional means, but I lied and told him there was a way. I even proposed, saying we’d hold a wedding once he recovered.”

Tang Luyu covered her face, her voice now indistinguishable between laughter and tears. “So why would anyone spend so much money to buy my pheromones? They were useless.”

Lin Xiangqi didn’t know what to say.

He had always thought Tang Luyu was a carefree person, constantly joking about going on dates and flirting, as if she were always flitting between relationships.

Now he realized Tang Luyu had just been trying to move on from the past. But no matter what she tried, nothing worked.

“So, you see, a permanent mark must be approached with extreme caution.” Tang Luyu quickly composed herself, adopting a lecturing tone. “I know you’re worried about Lu Cong’s rut cycles and want to help him this way. But this decision requires careful thought. A permanent mark could trap you for life—”

Whether in a relationship or in the past.

But Lin Xiangqi didn’t seem bothered at all. He said, “It’s fine. As long as it helps Lu Cong.”

He genuinely believed the consequences of a permanent mark—like scent changes—were trivial compared to his concern for Lu Cong’s health.

Tang Luyu realized Lin Xiangqi had already made up his mind long ago. He wasn’t here for advice—just to confirm some doubts.

As an outsider, she didn’t plan to interfere with Lin Xiangqi’s decision. She only advised, “If you’re really considering this, don’t act impulsively. You must discuss it thoroughly with Lu Cong’s parents first. Also, don’t rush into it now. You’ve just finished differentiating, and your body might not handle it well. I’d recommend waiting at least a year before making a decision.”

Back then, she had suggested a permanent mark because Lin Xiangqi’s condition was dire—things couldn’t get worse.

But now, Lin Xiangqi’s body had developed further. Though delayed compared to his peers, his health metrics were excellent. A mark now could do more harm than good, potentially damaging his reproductive system.

Yet Lin Xiangqi naively asked, “What if Lu Cong suddenly takes a turn for the worse? Couldn’t I help him then?”

Tang Luyu felt the words “love-struck fool” might as well be stamped on Lin Xiangqi’s forehead. But she knew his intentions were pure—he simply wanted to help Lu Cong, not blindly follow emotions. She replied, “How bad could Lu Cong get? Before, he needed daily suppressants. Now, with your pheromones, his metrics are much more stable. Just maintain the current frequency of pheromone安抚 for him.”

Lin Xiangqi nodded. He hadn’t been dead-set on a permanent mark—just preparing for all possibilities.

Hearing that Lu Cong was stable reassured him. “That’s good. I give him pheromones every day.”

Tang Luyu: “You don’t have to do it daily… Well, if you’re fine with it, then sure.”

Lin Xiangqi was about to ask Tang Luyu more about being an Extremely Superior Omega in medicine when a knock interrupted them.

Lu Cong didn’t enter. He gently pushed the door open and stood there, watching Lin Xiangqi from a distance.

Lin Xiangqi smiled at him. “Finished your tests?”

Lu Cong reached out a hand, answering simply, “Mm. Let’s go.”

Lin Xiangqi stood, bidding Tang Luyu goodbye. “Thanks, Dr. Tang. We’re heading out.”

He jogged over, taking Lu Cong’s hand and leaning against his arm naturally. “How were your metrics today?”

Lu Cong: “Stable.”

Lin Xiangqi: “Are you hungry? Let’s grab something to eat.”

Lu Cong: “Okay.”

Tang Luyu wasn’t sure if she was overthinking it, but Lu Cong seemed… off. His demeanor and tone were as gentle as ever, but—

Maybe it was his eyes.

There was an indescribable heaviness in them.