Chapter 25: The Heiress and the Illegitimate School Bully

During these days, Xiao Yi’s mind was entirely occupied by Song Qian. He threw himself into expanding his company’s business, and with every decision, every meeting, and every late night spent working, her voice and smile would surface in his thoughts. Whenever exhaustion threatened to overwhelm him, the mere memory of her reignited his drive; he was single-mindedly determined to build his company into a powerhouse, hoping to finally earn her father’s approval of their love.

On countless nights, longing washed over him like a tide. Finally, in the stillness of the late night, unable to suppress his yearning any longer, Xiao Yi snuck to the exterior of Song Qian’s residence. He approached with light, cautious steps and, peering through the window, felt a surge of excitement as he caught sight of her familiar silhouette. Finding the surroundings deserted, he slipped inside and made his way to her side.

As Song Qian was about to cry out, Xiao Yi quickly covered her mouth, his eyes filled with love and longing. Once she had calmed down, he slowly released her, gazed into her eyes, and leaned in to kiss her gently. The kiss was heavy with the weight of days spent apart, carrying the silent declaration of his unwavering faith in their future.

In the dim room, having snuck in under the veil of night, Xiao Yi finally stood before the woman he had been dreaming of. At the sight of him, tears welled up in Song Qian’s eyes, and her voice trembled as she poured out the grievances and pain of her confinement: "Ever since my father locked me in here, I have been so afraid every day. I feel like a prisoner, left only to stare at the walls in a daze. I miss you so much; I don't know when this nightmare will ever end."

Heart aching, Xiao Yi pulled her tightly into his embrace and tenderly wiped away her tears. Looking at her tear-streaked face, he was overcome with pity. He leaned in gently, his lips brushing her forehead, her cheeks, and finally settling on her lips, attempting to soothe her wounded spirit with this deep, affectionate kiss. He sought to convey his love and his vow to protect her, letting her know that no matter what, he would remain by her side to face this ordeal with her until they finally reached the dawn of their shared future.

Comforted by his kisses, Song Qian gradually stopped weeping, her emotions slowly steadying. The two huddled in a corner, whispering to one another as they discussed their next steps. Xiao Yi gripped her hand firmly, his eyes resolute as he promised her that he would strive to expand his company and meet her father’s requirements as quickly as possible, so that he might come to see her in the light of day.

Song Qian, though filled with anxiety—fearing her father’s stubbornness would make it difficult to change his mind—felt a flicker of hope rekindled by Xiao Yi’s determination. She nodded, promising to wait patiently in the house and avoid defying her father to prevent the situation from worsening.

Just as Xiao Yi climbed out of the window, preparing to make a quiet exit, a deep, stern voice thundered from behind him: "Stop right there!" Xiao Yi’s body stiffened. He turned slowly to see Song Qian’s father standing there, his expression grave.

"Sir, I..." Xiao Yi began, his voice tight with nerves.

The father let out a cold snort. "Follow me."

He turned and strode toward the house, leading Xiao Yi into the study. Settling into his chair, the father let out another hum of disapproval. "Do you think that by sneaking around like this, you are actually doing her any favors?"

Xiao Yi hurried to explain, "Sir, I love her sincerely. I know you have always opposed us, which is why I have been working so hard to grow my company—I want to earn your approval."

The father’s gaze was sharp and scrutinizing as he replied, "A small company like yours—how much growth potential could it possibly have? How can you expect me to feel at ease entrusting my daughter to you?"