The news reached Liang Wei like a cold gust of wind.
Zhang Kai was enrolled in the same university as Mei Ling. Both were top of their class—Zhang Kai for his grades, Mei Ling for her brilliance and charm.
From a friend, Liang Wei learned that Zhang Kai had changed. Gone was the arrogant, bullying boy. Now he was polished, mature, and admired. But to Liang Wei, it didn't matter.
He remembered all the humiliation, all the times Zhang Kai had belittled him. The memories came back like clockwork, sharp and bitter.
Even Mei Ling—his anchor, the one person who trusted him—was caught in the rhythm. Like clockwork, she called him for relief whenever she needed it. But for the first time, Liang Wei didn't pick up. He needed space. He needed time to think.
A few days later, curiosity pulled him toward the campus. And then he saw them.
Zhang Kai and Mei Ling. Walking side by side. Laughing softly.
And then—a kiss.
Mei Ling resting her head on Zhang Kai's shoulder.
Liang Wei froze. His chest tightened.
Mei Ling had admired Zhang Kai for his looks and brains. And now Zhang Kai liked her too.
Anger, jealousy, and a dark curiosity swirled inside him.
Why should he have her? Why shouldn't I make sure she stays mine?
Liang Wei shook his head, trying to dismiss the thought. But the spark had been lit.
For the first time since discovering his power, his desire to protect Mei Ling mixed with something possessive and dangerous.
He followed them silently, watching as they disappeared down the path.
And for the first time, Liang Wei realized he didn't know how far he might go to ensure she remained close to him.
A cold shiver ran down his spine. That whisper in his mind… it would not go away.
And that whisper
… was dangerous.