Chapter 56: Looking for Trouble
Translator: Atlas Studios  Editor: Atlas Studios

The warm sunlight was blocked by a shadow.

Xia Ling lifted her head and was startled to see a familiar face — Li Beier. The Li Beier in front of her now clearly had put in much effort to make herself presentable — her long, curly hair was combed into a charming style and she was wearing a fiery red, body-hugging top and skinny pants matched with a pair of bright-colored riding boots. She looked both cool and sexy. She looked down on Xia Ling and asked, “What are you doing here?”

“What’s it got to do with you?” Xia Ling responded lightly.

She was actually rather shocked to see Li Beier. The world was a small place and it seemed that Li Beier was one of the female partners of Li Lei’s group of friends here today. These rich second-generation heirs enjoyed playing around with small stars. She wondered which of the gentlemen had such bad taste and had chosen this shallow and problematic woman.

Li Beier was insulted by Xia Ling’s calm demeanor. She snapped at Xia Ling, her chest heaving in anger. “Who are you then? What place do you have sitting here? Speak! How did you manage to sneak in here?! If you don’t tell me, I’ll call security over right now!”

This scene felt like deja vu.

Xia Ling’s lips curled into a smile as she sniggered. “Have you not been through enough difficulties?”

“What?” Li Beier looked at her, confused.

“Not long ago, you were chased out of Lucas’ shop, right? How did that feel?” Xia Ling swirled the glass in her hands, the rose tea complementing her white fingertips. “Do you want to be chased out again here?”

Li Beier’s face contorted in anger as she was reminded of being chased out of the shop, and she glared at Xia Ling with fire seemingly spouting from her eyes. She had never been that disgraced and humiliated in her life! To date, she was too embarrassed to go to Lucas’ shop! As such, she had not had the chance to buy all the new outfits for the spring season and could only wear her old clothes to Nan Shan today! It was all because of this ugly woman in front of her, who had caused her to be publicly humiliated and not be able to buy new clothes, and also caused her to receive countless snide comments from the other ladies present today!

No, she had to get the upper hand here today!

Li Beier seethed and ground her teeth together, her beautiful face contorting in anger again.

Yet, learning from her mistake from before, Li Beier was a little cleverer this time. “Who did you come here with today?” She asked, afraid that Xia Ling had a strong backer. After all, the only people who could bring female partners into the Nan Shan horse riding club were wealthy second-generation heirs that had formidable backgrounds. Before making trouble, she needed to be sure that she could afford to offend Xia Ling.

Xia Ling lazily responded, “Why do you care who I came here with?” She did not have the good habit of replying everything that she was asked, and also did not like to wave Li Lei’s name around like a banner. Even if she could guess the intention behind Li Beier’s question, she did not care to tell her the truth.

Li Beier took it that Xia Ling was scared, and proudly stood taller, further showing off her full bosom. “I came here today with the second son of the Zhou family.”

In this circle, the second son of the Zhou family was a big name. He would rank just after Li Lei and Du Yunfeng. Li Beier had nothing to be afraid of as long as she did not offend the ladies that came with Li Lei and Du Yunfeng.

Xia Ling looked at Li Beier as if she was a moron. Did she feel proud to have crawled into bed with a second generation heir? What is more, she had seen Second Young Master Zhou earlier hugging two other women in his arms. Should Li Beier not be trying to regain his favor instead of wasting time with her here?

Seeing that Xia Ling was not saying anything, Li Beier thought that she had guessed it right and that Xia Ling did not have a strong backer. She started to get complacent, sneering at Xia Ling. “Get lost while I’m being nice. Or would you like to wait for Second Young Master Zhou to come over, then…”

“Who is that asking my girl to get lost?” Out of the blue, a lazy voice floated over.

Xia Ling turned her head towards the voice and saw Li Lei slowly walking over from under the shadows of the bamboo forest. He was wearing a white riding outfit from top to bottom, which complemented his tan skin tone, making him look wildly handsome. Ten or so people followed behind him, and they were the group of wealthy gentlemen with their female partners, returning from their horse riding.

Li Beier’s expression changed. Who was that speaking just now?

Oh my God, was she mistaken? It couldn’t be…

Li Lei had a nonchalant smile on his face as he came closer to Li Beier. He said, “It’s you who is bullying my person?”

“No no no, I… I didn’t!” Li Beier stuttered in fear. How was this possible?! It was really Young Master Li! This irritating woman, who looked mediocre and had neither a big chest nor behind, was brought in here by Young Master Li?! “I… I, she… she…” Li Beier was close to tears as she stuttered on in panic. “I was just kidding around with her. Yes, we were just joking around!”

“Oh?” Li Lei continued smiling, “Then, I’m just joking around with you now. Let me see how you get lost.”

Li Beier was stunned. She did not expect Li Lei to say something like that. What should she do now? Li Lei had a reputation in this circle for being hot-tempered, and she did not dare offend him. She turned her head to look at Xia Ling, only to see Xia Ling focused on swirling the glass teacup in her hands, her expression calm and peaceful as if this commotion had nothing to do with her.

Li Beier could only look toward Second Young Master Zhou in hopes that he would lend her a helping hand.

However, Second Young Master Zhou could not care less about her. She was not the most favored girl around him, and even if she was, he would not care to go against Li Lei for a simple plaything. Come on, Li Lei had already formally introduced Xia Ling to this group of friends, which was a clear indication that she meant a lot to him. How could Li Beier, his plaything, hold a candle to the apple of Li Lei’s eye?

Second Young Master Zhou shrugged and said, “Second Young Master Li, do what you may. You needn’t give me face.”

Li Lei was also the second son in his family, hence his close friends would address him as such. Hearing this, Li Lei’s smile broadened across his face, revealing his perfectly white teeth, “Then, do get lost.”

His tone was exuberant but made Li Beier quiver in her shoes.

Li Beier seethed in her heart. Not only had she offended the terrifying Young Master Li, but she had now also lost her backer. She could not do anything but turn around with her hands over her face and started walking out.

“Come back.” She had not gone very far before she heard Li Lei’s voice behind her ring out again.

“Young… Young Master Li, can I do anything else for you?” She asked nervously, almost in tears.

“I asked you to show me how you roll.” [1][a][b][c]

Roll…?

Roll!

Everyone understood what Young Master Li was saying at this moment. So, he wanted her to roll out of this place! Poor Li Beier, this was terrible for her. Tsk tsk, who asked her to get on the wrong side of Young Master Li? She now had to roll all the way out of this place…

Some of the ladies could not resist but steal a look at the terrain. Even though it was a grass field, but there were some pebbles and peach blossom twigs scattered around. To roll down from here, not thinking about how dirty or embarrassing it would be, the chance of her face being cut and grazed from all the pebbles and twigs was extremely high, and could even leave lasting scars…

Indeed, there was no good end to anyone that offended Young Master Li.

Li Beier was terrified. She begged Li Lei pitifully, both her eyes filled with tears. “Young Master Li, I…”

“You don’t want to roll?” Li Lei continued smiling at her.

“I don’t want to roll. Please, I beg you, don’t make me roll!” Li Beier pleaded.

Li Lei slowly responded, “Begging me is useless…” He carelessly glanced over at Xia Ling as he spoke.

Everyone realized at this moment that the person who could decide if Li Beier had to roll was this calm lady sitting by the side, sipping at her tea.

Notes:

1 .

[a]when u want to explain a phase u put a number at the end of the paragraph, like this [1], and then put the note at the end of the chapter

[b]we can’t do that in omega T, I believe we indicate as such for you to do the relevant formatting.

[c]Oh ok.

Chapter 57: I’ll Pay On Her Behalf
Translator: Atlas Studios  Editor: Atlas Studios

Li Beier felt like she was about to lose her mind. She had to beg this irritating woman?!

Begging Li Lei was fine, after all, he had his Young Master Li status, and even if it was embarrassing to grovel, she could live with it. However, begging this irritating woman was another story. Who was she? Not long ago she had bumped into her and saw her dressed in last season’s discount clothes! How did she deserve to receive her begging? She could not accept this!

Li Beier’s face was ashen in her anger, and she glared at Xia Ling with much hatred.

Xia Ling continued sipping at her tea, her white fingers holding on to the glass cup and admiring the rose petals that were dancing within her cup. She did not even spare a glance at Li Beier. The one being humiliated wasn’t her, she could take her time.

The situation reached a deadlock.

Second Young Master Zhou stepped forward and said, “Li Beier, apologize to Miss Ye now.” He had brought Li Beier here today, if the situation was not handled properly, he was afraid that it would affect his relationship with Li Lei or even affect his family’s business. Given these considerations, his voice was cold and stern as he commanded Li Beier.

Li Beier quivered even more in her place. Li Lei was not to be messed with, but neither was Second Young Master Zhou. She knew him well, and whenever he used this tone of voice, he was really angry and the consequences could be ugly.

She bit her lips as she struggled and finally spat out at Xia Ling. “Miss Ye, I’m sorry. I beg you, show me mercy and forgive me for what I did today.”

Xia Ling slowly sipped her tea again, and then raised her eyes to look at Li Beier. She smiled and asked, “You aren’t happy about this, are you?”

“No, no, I’m happy.” Li Beier responded with reluctance, the anger within her piling up high. Why isn’t this irritating woman accepting her apology?! What is she dragging out the time for?!

A look of confusion entered Xia Ling’s eyes as she queried. “Then, why do I think your apology sounds so forced?”

“…Ye Xingling, don’t ask for too much!” Li Beier ultimately could not hold in her anger.

“So, you’re clearly unhappy then.” Xia Ling continued in a light tone.

“Yes, I’m unhappy!” Li Beier was not naturally mild-natured, and she blew up from Xia Ling’s little taunting. “Ye Xingling, if not for Young Master Li backing you, you are nothing at all! Stop acting like you’re all high and mighty, let’s just wait and see how long you can hold onto him!” Young Master Li was known to change female partners as quickly as he changed clothes. Given that Xia Ling was still dressed in cheap clothes, Li Beier guessed that she had only recently gotten the attention of Young Master Li. After a few days, when her novelty wore off on Young Master Li and he had thrown her to the side, Xia Ling would be left in the lurch, crying!

Xia Ling turned her head slightly, the semblance of a smile hanging on the corner of her lips.

Very good, she was just waiting for this statement. Her plan to anger Li Beier was a success.

She was not pleased with the fact that Li Lei had thrown the decision-making power on how to deal with Li Beier to her. She knew that Li Lei was trying to help her get back at Li Beier, but didn’t this simply affirm the view that she was his girl and was dependent on him?

She did not want it to be this way.

She did not want to owe Li Lei anything. She wanted to deal with it in her own power, in a way that nobody could question.

“Very good.” She slowly put down the glass in her hands. “Li Beier, why don’t you decide what you need me to do for you to feel less wronged?” Regardless of what Li Beier suggested, Xia Ling was prepared to accept.

Li Beier did not expect this turn of events, and while initially stunned, she soon was gloating at her fortune.

Great, this irritating woman was dumber than she expected. She did not want to rely on Young Master Li and wanted to go head-to-head with her. How naive and stupid! Since this irritating woman wanted to court death, she did not mind showing her who had the upper hand here!

Li Beier sinisterly narrowed her eyes and laughed. “Would you dare compete with me in a round of horse riding?”

A horse riding competition? Those looking on frowned when they heard this. This lady that Young Master Li had brought along did not join them when they went riding earlier. It was either true that she had her period, or she didn’t know how to ride at all. Regardless of which of these reasons were true, there was no way she would be able to compete with Li Beier in horse riding. Li Beier clearly had chosen this shrewdly — she would be able to not only regain her pride but also put Xia Ling down in the process.

That being said…

Everyone’s eyes fell on Xia Ling. This lady was really dumb to have dug a hole for herself to jump into.

Second Young Master Zhou gave Li Lei a questioning look. If Li Lei gave the signal, he would prevent the competition from proceeding. Even if this lady that Young Master Li brought was dumb and innocent, he still could not let Li Beier bully her anymore. He would not want to have to deal with Young Master Li’s wrath.

Yet, Li Lei’s smile simply deepened, his eyes forming a line. The look he gave to Xia Ling had an added tinge of interest and curiosity.

Xia Ling did not back down like how everyone expected her to. Instead, she calmly asked, “Are you sure?”

Her confidence made Li Beier waver. This can’t be right, she was about to humiliate her, how could this irritating woman still be so calm? This woman was poor, there was no way she would be able to learn horse riding, which was an expensive and cash-burning exercise. This was the reason Li Beier had dared suggest a horse riding competition. She was sure that Xia Ling would lose.

Yet, she hesitated now.

One of the other ladies to the side said softly, “A horse riding competition isn’t that suitable, right? Miss Ye said earlier that she was unwell. She didn’t join us earlier for the same reason.” This was said with the intent of fanning the flames between Li Beier and Xia Ling. She was too unhappy that someone as mediocre as Xia Ling was able to gain the attention of the prime bachelor, Young Master Li. This irritating woman definitely did not know how to ride a horse, she was simply faking it.

Xia Ling glanced over at the other lady, her expression unreadable.

The lady simply felt that Xia Ling’s gaze was like ice, and seemed to be able to see through her in an instant. She felt a sense of terror rise up within her and subconsciously hid further within the group.

On hearing her words, Li Beier’s shaken confidence was rekindled. Yes, there was no way this woman could ride a horse, she was simply faking it. She would not fall for it, the horse riding competition was the way to go! She had to humiliate this irritating woman!

“Yes, let’s have a horse riding competition.” Li Beier said haughtily. “You wouldn’t chicken out, would you?”

Unexpectedly, Xia Ling responded with a light smile. “Okay, let’s have a horse riding competition.”

Li Beier was stunned as she did not expect Xia Ling to agree so readily. Did she really know how to ride?

“However,” Xia Ling continued. “the competition will be boring without some incentives. How about we put a wager on it. If you lose, Miss Li, it won’t be so simple as rolling away from here. Other than rolling, you would also have to…” She turned her head slightly as she gave Li Beier a once over, and then said with a smile, “This necklace that you are wearing looks really pretty.”

A luxurious, colored diamond necklace was hanging on Li Beier’s neck, shimmering brightly under the sunlight.

No wonder!

Li Beier’s hand automatically went up to feel the necklace she was wearing. Hmph, so this was her plan. This irritating woman thought she would decline the competition for fear she would lose this necklace? This necklace was indeed very expensive, and even she could not afford it. She had borrowed it for today. But so what, she wasn’t afraid — this irritating woman did not know how to ride, regardless of what the stakes were, she would still win!

Following her train of thought, the sinister smile on Li Beier’s face grew wider. “Sure, I agree to your wager! But, this necklace isn’t cheap, are you able to take out an equivalent wager on your end?” She could not resist taunting, seeing that Xia Ling was not wearing anything valuable from top to bottom.

“I’ll pay on her behalf.” Li Lei interrupted in his same lazy voice.

Chapter 58: The Expensive Private Stallion
Translator: Atlas Studios  Editor: Atlas Studios

Xia Ling looked over at him and smiled. “Okay, take it as I’m borrowing it from you.”

Li Lei lamented. This girl was not giving him any face here. Was she so bent on drawing the line? The wealthy gentlemen standing around looked on, confused. It couldn’t be, did they hear it wrong? Did this girl say “borrow”? For people of their status and standing, she should be honored that they were willing to foot her wager. For Xia Ling to say that she was just borrowing it was like giving Li Lei a slap in the face.

This girl dared give Young Master Li a slap in the face?

As they gave him questioning looks, Li Lei grumbled softly. “I told you I haven’t managed to win her over yet.”

Du Yunfeng could not resist but laugh out loud. “What a rare occurrence. Second Young Master Li, there’s actually something that you cannot resolve.” He patted his good friend on the shoulder and decided to give him a helping hand. He turned his head and said to Xia Ling, “Little lady, how about I help you up the stakes a little? If you win, I will give you a tea set.”

Giving his good friend’s girlfriend clothing or jewelry was taboo, only a tea set was safe, and he could still get an expensive one.

Xia Ling was about to decline, but the other wealthy gentlemen started to join in on the fun as well. “Yes, little lady, if you win we’ll each give you a present. I heard you’re a singer, how about I give you a speaker.”

“I’ll give you a VIP card to the gym club.”

“I’ll give you a prized collector’s wine.”

“And I’ll…”

All of them started promising a variety of things simultaneously.

Xia Ling was stunned, she did not expect things to progress like this. Li Lei kept smiling and said, “Thank you for your generosity, I will not stand on ceremony.”

“Go away, it’s not for you.” Everyone jeered at him.

Li Lei continued to smile gleefully. “Xiao Ling, do well! If you win you have a lot of silvers waiting for you.”

Xia Ling came back to her sense and gave a bitter smile. Even though she wanted to decline them, these wealthy gentlemen were way too passionate. She did not need to offend all of them in declining — it wasn’t as if it was a matter of principle. Hence, she nodded. “I’ll accept with thanks, then.”

The group of gentlemen gave a cheer, feeling a great sense of satisfaction. See, the little lady had agreed to accept their gifts but did not accept Second Young Master Li’s gift. The rare chance to one-up Second Young Master Li felt… just great.

Li Lei did not know whether to smile or cry. What kind of friends were these? Yet, he was happy to see that his brothers here were warming up to Xia Ling. He was proud of his taste, just one meeting and Xia Ling was able to charm all these wealthy gentlemen. He was exceedingly proud, proud in all kinds of ways, just too proud.

The other ladies were very jealous, but no one dared let it show on their faces and even laughed along with the wealthy gentlemen. Some of them were terrible in their acting, and their expressions were contorted to the point it was funny.

Li Beier’s expression, too, was contorted. The competition hadn’t even started and these wealthy gentlemen were already biased beyond measure, all competing to give Xia Ling a gift, but no one even thought of adding anything for her. What’s more, even Second Young Master Zhou had promised Xia Ling a gift as well, ignoring her. Xia Ling was way ahead of her in terms of initial momentum.

Li Beier felt bitter in her heart. She swung around abruptly, saying, “Let’s go pick our horses!”

She had already made up her mind. Once they began riding, she had to make this irritating woman lose convincingly!

Their large group strode over to the horse riding arena.

Li Lei suddenly remembered something and, pulling at Xia Ling’s sleeve, he asked softly, “You really know how to ride?” Horse riding was a hobby of the rich, and without a personal trainer, lots of money and free time one would be unable to learn it well. He had asked his subordinate to investigate Xia Ling’s background in the past and she did not look like someone that had learned how to ride.

However, he was unaware that Xia Ling had reincarnated.

In her past life, Xia Ling was adopted by Pei Ziheng and could be considered to be half an heiress. No… more accurately, she was richer than most heiresses. Pei Ziheng had pandered to her every need and spent loads of money sending her for classes. Horse riding, surfing, car racing… she was familiar with all the hobbies that the rich enjoyed. She also had a natural flair for sports and was able to learn all sports with ease.

“Yup, I can ride.” She told Li Lei.

“But,” Li Lei asked. “didn’t you say it was that time of the month?”

Xia Ling gave him a look and then said simply, “I lied.”

Li Lei was speechless. This little lady dared lie to him. He would remember this and claim it back from her once she had agreed to become his girlfriend. Hmph…

Li Beier did not notice their little conversation as she speedily picked her horse ahead of Xia Ling and announced loudly. “I want this one!” She picked a tall, muscular horse the color of red dates, which had the blood of an English pedigree. It was a handsome horse, with well-proportioned limbs and explosive strength within its muscles. It was clearly a good horse. In fact, Li Beier and many of the others were aware that this horse, named Blood Rouge, was a famous horse in this Nan Shan riding club and was the best horse that a normal member could pick.

To be able to impress these wealthy gentlemen, Li Beier had practiced her horse riding diligently. Getting this horse now was like giving her added ammunition.

Many of the onlookers sighed silently. It looked this little lady that Young Master Li had brought along today was going to lose for sure.

Yet, Xia Ling was unfazed and confidently walked over to the horses as she tried to make her pick. People who were unable to ride would usually be a little afraid to be amongst all these tall, muscular horses, but Xia Ling was not, looking as if she was strolling in the flower garden behind her house. Even looking at the stallions in the eye did not bring a tinge of fear into her clear eyes.

It wasn’t long before everyone could tell that this little lady knew her horses.

But so what? The best horse had already been chosen by Li Beier and the others were no match in terms of speed.

“Are there any other horses?” asked Xia Ling.

“Yes, there are.” The helper from the riding club that was accompanying her said. “There are two more Arabian horses, a Trakehner horse, and an English pedigree. These four horses are all pedigrees with formal certification, and only members with the premium black card can borrow them.”

“I have the premium black card.” Li Lei smiled widely at Xia Ling.

Xia Ling responded, “I don’t need it.” Actually, what she was truly interested in was not these four horses.

“Use mine, use mine!”

“We all have the premium black card!” The group of rich gentlemen shouted out.

Xia Ling placed her forehead in her hands and decided to ignore them.

She remembered that the Nan Shan riding club did not only have these horses. There were still a few more special, private horses that were left in their care by rich members. She thought about it silently for a moment before asking Li Lei, “What horse did you ride just now?”

“Me?” Li Lei replied, “I was riding my own Hannover.” He had left a mixed breed Hannover in the care of the riding club, but the regretful thing was that Hannovers were good in high jumps but did not have the speed of English pedigrees in speed races. Hence, Li Lei did not suggest lending his Hannover to Xia Ling and wanted to use his premium black card to borrow the pedigrees from the riding club instead.

Yet, Xia Ling said, “Can you bring me to see it?”

“Sure.” Li Lei agreed readily. Although he was surprised, he was still happy that she was interested in his horse.

No one dared raise any objection to Young Master Li bringing them to see his horse. Hence, the group of them followed Li Lei to the special breeding ground where premium black card members would leave their private horses. This place was not open to outsiders, thus the expensive horses were allowed to roam freely. Occasionally, the handsome silhouette of a horse galloping would pass by in front of their eyes.

Li Lei placed his fingers between his lips and let out a whistle.

A deep black stallion appeared in front of everybody’s eyes.

Chapter 59: Her Valiant Song
Translator: Atlas Studios  Editor: Atlas Studios

It had a coat that was so black and smooth that it shined, it’s silky mane swept back in the wind. It looked handsome and elegant. Its gaze was deep and calm, like a lake without any ripples, as it trotted over confidently to Li Lei and lowered its head gracefully to its owner.

“It’s so beautiful.” Someone exclaimed softly.

Even though they had just seen Li Lei ride it earlier, the beauty of this horse was such that you were in awe every time you saw it.

Li Lei laughed as he patted the horse on the head, and then turned to introduce it to Xia Ling. “Its name is Thunder, you can ride it.” He had named the horse after himself, showing how much he adored it. Other than Xia Ling, he had not allowed anyone else to ride it before.

Fleetingly, the rich gentlemen that knew this fact all gave Xia Ling several more looks.

Xia Ling simply walked around it observing, not indicating outright if she was going to ride it. In actual fact, when no one was looking, she had looked over to the place that Thunder had walked over from. She had wanted to see another horse, but she wasn’t sure if it was still here. Was it doing well?

She looked around for a while, and just as she was feeling disappointed, a flash of a fiery red shadow appeared nearby.

That horse was like the wind and also like a fleeting, red flash of lighting. Before anyone could react, it was galloping straight towards Xia Ling. Its speed was extremely fast as it came up close from the afar in just a matter of seconds. Its grand entrance made even Li Lei’s Thunder back off a little.

“Be careful!” Several people shouted out.

That horse was galloping extremely fast, if one were to be in its path, they would either land up dead or paralyzed!

Li Lei stretched out his hand, intending to pull Xia Ling to safety from this sudden occurrence. Yet, her feet seemed to have grown roots and she stood there unwavering on the same spot, watching as the horse galloped towards her.

Gosh, was she too scared to move?

Many could not bear to look, thinking that she was about to be trampled upon and become a meat patty.

Just as that horse was a half step away from Xia Ling, it stopped abruptly as quickly as it had galloped over.

How lucky…

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Du Yunfeng was the first to snap back to his senses, and could not resist but chide Xia Ling. “Why did you just stand there dumbly? You didn’t move even when Second Young Master Li was pulling you away. Do you know how dangerous it is?!” Li Lei was unable to pull her away earlier and, hence, was unable to run out of the way in time as well. If the horse had crashed into them, whether or not Xia Ling died was secondary. If Li Lei had been harmed or injured, that would be a travesty!

“Yes, why were you in such a daze for?!” The wealthy gentlemen looking on took turns to chide her as they each snapped back to their senses.

However, at this moment, Xia Ling was not listening to them at all. Her entire focus on was this fiery red and extremely beautiful mare. She slowly reached out her hand to pat the mare’s mane on the top of its neck, as if she was saying hello to a friend she hadn’t seen in a long time.

The mare tamely leaned its head towards her, allowing her to stroke it tenderly, watching her with eyes as bright as precious stones. The look in its eyes contained loyalty, longing, and unspeakable sadness.

“Valiant Song.” Li Lei recognized the horse and watched on in surprise at its interaction with Xia Ling.

“It’s Valiant Song.” Many others recognized the horse following Li Lei’s statement. Many of these wealthy gentlemen kept horses at Nan Shan, and all those who kept horses here knew Valiant Song. She was too unique — of all the horses kept here, she was the only mare, but was the queen of all the horses here, going against the belief that stallions were superior in the riding scene.

She was extremely aggressive and other than her owner, no one was able to get close to her.

Her owner had already passed away.

“She was Miss Xia Ling’s favorite horse when she was still alive.” The helper that had accompanied them said as he came back to his senses.

No one knew that this girl interacting so closely with Valiant Song was none other than Xia Ling reincarnated. Only Valiant Song had recognized her after pining for her for so long. Just one look and she had known who she was in the midst of the crowd.

In her eyes, she saw both Xia Ling’s past and present life.

Xia Ling combed through Valiant Song’s mane as her memories flooded back. She remembered traveling the world and spending two whole years for the cross-breeding, and then fighting through a blizzard to see Valiant Song being born in England and then bringing her home on a chartered plane.

She had named her “Valiant Song,” tamed her and rode her in many places.

Later on, Xia Ling became busier and lost interest in horse riding. Xia Ling sent Valiant Song to the Nan Shan riding club for fear that she would be lonely in the huge backyard of Pei Ziheng’s bungalow. Xia Ling had thought that Valiant Song would be happier amongst the pedigree horses in the riding club, roaming freely.

After that, she was imprisoned by Pei Ziheng and never saw Valiant Song again.

This meeting was already two years since they had been separated.

“I’m sorry, Valiant Song, for coming so late.” She buried her face in Valiant Song’s mane and said softly, her voice too soft for anyone else to hear.

Valiant Song understood her and whinnied softly in response.

“Unbelievable.” The helper looking on mumbled. “Valiant Song approached her so willingly.”

“Can I ride her?” Xia Ling raised her head to ask. Her objective in coming to this private area was never to see Li Lei’s horse, but to look for Valiant Song. Two years had passed and she could not hold back her longing for her.

However, the helper fidgeted and sheepishly said, “Miss, this is the horse that Xia Ling placed in our care when she was alive. Now, she is owned by Mr. Pei Ziheng of Imperial Entertainment. Mr. Pei has told us that no one is to touch her.”

So, she was now Pei Ziheng’s horse.

Xia Ling reluctantly let go of Valiant Song. She should have thought of the fact that after her death, all her possessions were transferred to the care of Pei Ziheng. Valiant Song was no exception.

She did not want to have anything more to do with Pei Ziheng.

“Forget it then.” She held in her sadness and turned around to leave.

“Are you not picking horses anymore?” asked Du Yunfeng. “Second Young Master Li’s Thunder is not bad as well. The other English Pedigree is also available for you to pick. You…”

“I can pick from the horses available to the normal club members.” Xia Ling replied dejectedly.

If she was unable to ride Valiant Song, the other horses were all the same, be it a Hannover, an English pedigree, or a lesser known breed.

She slowly walked away, her back looking lonely and forlorn.

Valiant Song sensed that she was about to leave and ran up alongside her, whinnying as if she was anxiously asking Xia Ling to stay.

Xia Ling walked faster and faster, not daring to stop, afraid that if she stopped she would not be able to leave anymore.

However, Valiant Song persistently followed alongside her, her whinny becoming more anxious.

Finally, she could not take it anymore and stopped. Valiant Song placed her head across Xia Ling’s shoulder, her cheek pressed against Xia Ling’s cheek. Xia Ling closed her eyes as she felt Valiant Song’s coat against her skin, struggling to control her tears from falling.

“What do we have to do to ride her?” All of a sudden, she heard Li Lei ask.

The helper replied, his voice fraught with discomfort. “Mr. Pei has set down a firm order. Under no condition can anyone rider her.” He felt a sense of regret, a prime horse like Valiant Song would be completely useless if left unattended for any longer.

“Pei Ziheng really likes this horse?” Li Lei’s voice rang out again.

The helper responded, “Yes.”

“What if it died?”

“Ah?” The helper looked up in shock.

“It dying, or it being ridden by someone else. Which of these would have more serious consequences?” Li Lei asked casually with a smile as if what he was saying was a typical dinner topic. “If you make Xiao Ling unhappy, I will be unhappy. When I am unhappy, I will do anything I so please.”

Chapter 60: I’ll Give You a One-round Head Start
The service staff was stunned. This was a threat through and through.

“Y-young Master Li, you-you can’t do this.” the service staff was already stammering. “This horse, you- it…” He was incoherent and flustered. Gosh, he could not afford to offend Mr. Pei, but neither could he offend this big shot before him.

Li Lei smiled cheekily. “I’ll give you five seconds. Five- four- three- two…”

“Alright!” He yelled his decision chokingly. “I’ll lend it to you alright!” Young Master Li was known to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing, smiley and friendly on the outside but brutal on the inside, but why was everybody so afraid of him? Simply because he was capable of anything! The service staff really believed that he would kill Pei Ziheng’s horse, and if the horse died in the Southern Mountains Equestrian Club, Pei Ziheng would definitely not let it go. When the time came, the whole club would be in deep trouble.

The service staff pulled a long face, thinking what an unlucky day this was for him.

Li Lei was content and his smile widened, “You sure know the situation well. The next time you need any help, feel free to look for me.” He was a cruel person, but he would never force an innocent person to a dead end. It was clear that the service staff had to offend Pei Ziheng because of him, hence the alternative he provided the service staff was a way of consolation as well as reward.

All the employees at such high-end clubs were intelligent people, thus he definitely knew what Li Lei implied.

At the moment, he realized that it was not an unlucky day at all. In fact, he was too lucky. Working for Young Master Li… Wow, even thinking about it was such a bliss. The service staff grinned from ear to ear and got the paperwork for the horse rental settled in no time.

Xia Ling did not expect Li Lei to really borrow the horse for her. She was immensely touched.

“Thank you.” she leaned against Valiant Song’s beautiful mane and thanked him sweetly.

Li Lei gazed at her, her slender figure against Valiant Song’s sturdy stature created an unusual harmony. This girl was always careful not to owe him any favor, thus the only way he could make her happy was successfully borrowing Valiant Song for her.

As a matter of fact, this was the first time she spoke to him so softly and sweetly.

Li Lei’s look softened as well, his mood rising as well.

“Alright, alright. The competition can finally begin.” Du Yunfeng stepped out. “Lass Ye, Li Bei Er, since you have both got your horses, let’s begin before it turns dark.”

“This isn’t fair!” Li Bei Er kicked a fuss. “The horse she got is Valiant Song, the fastest horse in the whole club! My horse can never beat hers!”

Once the words were uttered, everyone turned and looked at Li Bei Er with disdain.

Valiant Song was a hybrid of a thoroughbred and a Ferghana horse, its speed was indeed incredible and unbeatable. But when Li Bei Er made the first pick and chose the bay horse, thinking that Xia Ling could only get the remaining worse off horses, why had she not thought about it being unfair?

“Zhou, your judgment of people needs to be improved.” a rich man scorned at Li Bei Er and gave Second Young Master Zhou his sincere advice.

Second Young Master Zhou was embarrassed. “Yes, yes. I’ll give her a piece of my mind when we get back.”

The words were merciless to Li Bei Er and she was shocked to hear them. “Se-Second Young Master Zhou… you can’t do this.” her voice was strained as if she was about to cry.

“Embarrass me again and there won’t even be break-up compensation for you.” Second Young Master Zhou furrowed his brows in frustration.

Li Bei Er went silent immediately, forcing back her tears. Seeing that Second Young Master Zhou deserting her was now an inescapable outcome, she now kept her eye on the break-up compensation fee — she was not about to give that up.

It’s all that woman’s fault!

She shot Xia Ling a death glare.

Xia Ling spoke slowly. “I don’t mind exchanging horses with you. If you want Valiant Song, please go ahead.”

Li Bei Er’s eyes sparkled. If she rode Valiant Song, she would definitely beat that woman! However, the moment she tried to get close to Valiant Song, the brilliant brown horse had already raised its two front hooves and glared at her threateningly.

How terrifying!

Frightened, Li Bei Er stopped in her tracks.

She dared not even get within three feet of Valiant Song! Incorrigible, why didn’t this horse allow her anywhere close! Why did it only accept that woman!

Li Bei Er was furious, but she knew for a fact she would only embarrass herself further if she pressed on. Hence, she simply scoffed and backed out of Valiant Song’s radius of attack in a pretense of noble compliance. “I don’t care for it. Anyway, there would be no glory if you win riding on Valiant Song!” She paved a way out for herself first. Thus if that woman really did win, at least she could save herself some dignity.

“Oh?” Xia Ling appeared to smile. “I’ll give you a one-round head start, will that be fair then?”

Actually, it wasn’t for the win that she wanted to ride on Valiant Song, it was that she simply missed this horse too much. With her equestrian skills, she would be able to win the race even with any of the horses around.

Everybody around was in shock — a one-round head start? Did she get it wrong? The race was only a distance of three rounds, one round would constitute one-third of the race — that was too huge a head start. “Little girl, you’d better reconsider. Don’t be impulsive, that bay horse is also a good horse, and Li Bei Er’s skills are not too bad. You’re taking too big a risk.” Some advised.

“It’s alright.” Xia Ling was brimming with confidence as she looked Li Bei Er straight in the eye. “I’ll give you a one-round head start. If I lose, I’ll live up to the deal we made. And if you lose, you will act according to your promise.”

“… Fine!” Li Bei Er clenched her teeth, agreeing to the offer as everyone stared down at her in contempt.

She didn’t have a choice. She remembered the deal: if she lost, she would have to physically roll out of Xia Ling’s sight and also give her a necklace — it was too great a cost. So, embarrassing as it was, why would she say no to such a good offer if the foolish lady had volunteered it?

The race commenced.

As the judge declared the start, Li Bei Er rode the bay horse and started out immediately. She rode extremely slowly to make full use of the one-round head start, so as to conserve as much energy as she could for the final burst. The spectators watching the scene lost respect for her once more.

“Will your lass lose this race?” Du Yunfeng nudged Li Lei and asked him softly.

“Why would she.” Li Lei glared at him.

“Even in this situation?” Du Yunfeng was curious. “How good are her equestrian skills, at a divine level?”

“How am I to know, I’ve never seen her ride a horse.”

“You haven’t seen her ride a horse, but you’re so confident of her?” Du Yunfeng had no idea what he was listening to anymore.

“Of course, she’s my woman.” Li Lei was smug.

Du Yunfeng was speechless. He was sure that Li Lei was really in love this time because only those in love could be so silly and irrational.

What a pity it was that Li Lei could not hear his thoughts, he was fully concentrated on the race track —

Xia Ling started off.