The Surrogate Bride of the Colonel He

Chapter 183 - I Won't Play the Rascal

Loong Shen's apprehension stemmed from Zuo Bo's unexpected call, a departure from their usual dynamic.

“Hello?”

Even without checking the caller ID, Hee Jingyan recognized the anxiety in Loong Shen's demeanor, a reaction exclusive to Zuo Bo.

Loong Shen hesitated before answering, his voice betraying tension beneath his attempt at composure.

Initially intending to mask his unease, Loong Shen was interrupted by Zuo Bo's mischievous inquiry before he could collect himself.

At the mention of “Loong,” Loong Shen's facade of calm shattered instantly, reverting to his true emotions.

“Yes, of course, I wish you'd vanish.”

Despite the anger in his tone, Loong Shen's outburst hinted at underlying excitement, exacerbated by Zuo Bo's flippant remark.

To harbor such expectations was sheer folly, Loong Shen berated himself inwardly as anger tinged his expression.

Yet Zuo Bo's widening grin upon hearing Loong Shen's retort signaled recognition of the latter's emotional investment. His anger affirmed his attachment.

Despite his natural ease, Zuo Bo hesitated before dialing Loong Shen, aware of the significance of the gesture and fearing rejection.

It was a moment of internal conflict for Zuo Bo, debating the merits of reaching out to Loong Shen for the first time.

Anxious anticipation gripped Zuo Bo as he contemplated Loong Shen's potential response, fearing rejection.

Ignoring the phone wasn't a blow to his ego; it stemmed from the fear of restlessness, the urge to rush to Hee Jingyan's troop in search of Loong Shen.

No specific rationale prompted his actions; he simply yearned for Loong Shen's acknowledgment, craving his voice and presence.

“If I were to perish, who would attend to you in the future?” Zuo Bo maintained composure, his heart resolute and face unwavering.

“Has no one ever labeled you a rascal before?”

Loong Shen's tone carried a subtle shift, neither weighty nor light, his lips betraying a faint curl—a demeanor foreign to his past self.

Previously, he'd have hung up by now.

“Quite the rascal!” Zuo Bo chuckled, “I've got an even more mischievous trick up my sleeve. Care to try it?” His eyebrow arched mischievously as he spoke.

Zuo Yi sat opposite Zuo Bo, his appetite waning upon hearing these words. Not revulsion, but weariness overtook him.

Shame was no stranger in their family; whose lineage had he inherited? Mr. Loong Shen remained undeterred; enduring such pestering was a minor inconvenience.

Zuo Yi cursed inwardly, resigned to his fate, for wearying of Loong Shen was inevitable if he became part of their family.

Anticipating Loong Shen's dismissal and a shift in conversation, Zuo Bo was surprised by his response, “Truly! I'm eager for it!”

Loong Shen's words carried the veneer of invitation, yet concealed great peril.

As Loong Shen, accompanying Zuo Bo was inconceivable.