41 How dare he tease me like that?

Day after day, Yan Shu got ever more used to living with the family. Her phobias were in check, and she had control over her emotions, as well as her body. She felt happy.

Renji, Sara, and Kai helped her train every day. She learned how to hide her emotions and also to never display weakness.

One day, Renji brought her some unexpected news: someone was looking for her. "It's someone from the military."

Yan Shu felt disappointed at that. She half-hoped it would be her brother. "Father," she spoke after a while. Having been adopted by the family, Yan Shu started treating Renji and Sara as if they were her parents. "Could you help me meet my brother? Even just a glance, that would be enough for me," she pleaded with her best puppy face.

Renji had to admit that he felt moved by her behavior, but he also had to remain stern. "Yan Shu, what did I tell you about displaying weakness?"

"I love you and you love me, so that's okay."

"Renji, stop trying to turn my Shu'er into a robot." Sara came into the room after overhearing their conversation. Besides not agreeing with Renji's point of view, she also wished to hear Yan Shu say that she loved her. So she made her way into the room and sat beside Yan Shu. "Shu'er, ignore that evil father of yours. Renji and I received an invitation to a banquet at Country X and, since he doesn't want to go, you can accompany me."

Renji felt at a loss for words. He didn't expect his wife would use that invitation. Not wanting to lose, he decided to change his tactics. "Actually, the invite was directed to our San Groups, so it's only right for me to attend. Besides, your mother has to take care of her hospital, so you shouldn't bother her."

"My dear husband, I can just leave someone in charge of the hospital, it won't be a problem at all."

"Nonsense, no one would be able to replace you, even if for a few days. That's why you should stay."

Sparks seemed to fly in between the two as they fought over Yan Shu's affection, who couldn't help but chuckle at that. "Well, call me when you've made a decision," she said. "I'll head back to my room."

"It's already decided," Renji immediately spoke in response. "Now, the banquet is the day after tomorrow, so hurry up and pack your bags. And remember to disguise yourself."

Yan Shu nodded and went up the stairs.

"If you think I'll let you two alone, then you're sorely mistaken," Sara spoke as soon as Yan Shu left. "And why did you agree with her?"

"Well, I realized that you were right and decided to follow your words," Renji lied through his teeth.

"Yeah, right," Sara correctly believed none of what he said.

Renji chuckled at that. "Honey, do you want to know the best part of what just happened?"

"Sure." Sara clearly knew he was trying to bait her, but she bit in anyways.

"The best part is that Yan Shu said that she loves me, but she told you nothing of the sort." Renji gave a hearty laugh that was quickly silenced by a flying pillow.

Sara threw every pillow she could find at him. When those ran out, she settled for anything light enough to be hurled at his retreating figure. 'This man, how dare he tease me like that?'