Jing'an Temple stood as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling cityscape. Its golden rooftops gleamed under the sunlight, and the melodious sound of bells resonated in the air, creating an atmosphere of serenity.
As Wang Xiao and Mo Xiang entered the temple premises, they were greeted by the fragrance of incense and the soothing hum of prayers.
The courtyard was adorned with vibrant red lanterns, and intricate carvings adorned the walls, telling tales of centuries past.
Walking further into the temple, they found a gathering of people paying their respects at the main hall.
Among the worshippers, Wang Xiao's eyes couldn't help but notice the diverse array of women present.
Some wore traditional attire, while others sported modern dresses, each adding a unique charm to the setting.
Women of all ages, from young to old, stood in front of the altar, their eyes closed in deep reverence as they offered their prayers.
The soft rustling of their clothing, the subtle sway of their graceful movements, created a mesmerizing sight that captured Wang Xiao's attention.
Mo Xiang nudged him with an amused grin, "Brother, you were right. Temples are definitely the place to find quality women."
Wang Xiao nodded, his gaze firmly fixed on the scene unfolding before him. His purpose for being here extended beyond a simple appreciation of beauty; there was something more that drew him to this place.
Leaving Mo Xiang within the temple's confines, he decided to explore the area outside.
The pathways behind the temple were skillfully designed, winding among the tall trees and illuminated by soft, dim lighting. As he walked through this tranquil space, a sense of calmness and peace enveloped him.
Wooden benches were thoughtfully scattered throughout, providing spots for contemplation and rest.
In a quiet corner of this serene setting, a young boy sat on one of the benches.
His hair was neatly trimmed, his face illuminated by the glow of his phone screen as he focused on whatever held his attention.
This boy was Hao Zemin, a frequent visitor to the temple. He would often accompany his mother here, watching over her as she engaged in her prayers.
For this particular visit, Wang Xiao had intentionally left behind Mo Xiang and the others.
He wanted to keep their involvement separate from his sisters, being cautious about potential complications that could arise among their male companions.
After all, matters of human emotions were never entirely predictable, and Wang Xiao wanted to shield his sisters from any unnecessary complications.
Wang Xiao had previously delved into Hao Zemin's background, especially after the warning he had given him about staying away from Wang Xueying.
Yet, as Wang Xiao gazed upon Hao Zemin's face, he could sense the disregard this young man held for his cautionary words.
Despite the initial fear triggered by the warning, Hao Zemin seemed to have let his guard down upon discovering that Wang Xiao was actually his junior.
Age often comes with an inherent sense of superiority that can sometimes cloud one's judgment.
Hao Zemin was engrossed in his phone, his focus momentarily interrupted by the approaching shadow of Wang Xiao.
The casual greeting "Oye!" brought Hao Zemin's attention back to reality.
Swoosh!
In a swift movement, he instinctively reached for a sharp object and held it close to Wang Xiao's neck. Amid the tension, a somewhat comical laughter broke the silence, as Hao Zemin's taunting voice filled the air, "Haha! Are you here to play the protective brother role again, kid?"
"!?"
As the screwdriver pointed menacingly at his neck, Wang Xiao felt a sense of freezing realization wash over him.
Observing the preparedness of Hao Zemin, he inwardly noted, 'It seems he was ready for this.' He let out a resigned sigh, realizing the precariousness of his situation.
However, his momentary lapse in response didn't go unnoticed by Hao Zemin. With a hint of impatience in his voice, he taunted, "What, got no words!?"
"Huh?"
"Now, come on, empty your pockets, and I might let you go!" Hao Zemin's tone oozed with a malicious threat, his eyes gleaming with cruelty.
Inner voices echoed in Wang Xiao's mind, each with their own advice:
'Break this bastard's face!'
'You should have come with more people!'
'I don't like his smirk!'
Amidst the internal chaos, Wang Xiao heard the impatient voice of Hao Zemin again. The latter's smirk widened as he jeered, "Come on, what are you waiting for!?" He prodded the screwdriver slightly against Wang Xiao's neck.
In response, Wang Xiao put on a show of resignation, his tone carrying a sigh, "I have some money in my front pocket," he stated calmly, slightly bending to retrieve the money.
Hao Zemin's smirk grew even wider, victorious glee taking over him.
Not only he got his revenge but also extorted him!
His happiness was over the roof now!
At the moment when Hao Zemin's attention wavered, a swift impact struck his abdomen with a forceful *Bam*.
"Ugh!"
Hao Zemin's eyes widened in both surprise and pain, a guttural sound escaping his lips.
However, before he could react or retaliate, Wang Xiao was already in motion, racing away from the scene.
Perplexed and infuriated, Hao Zemin clenched his teeth, his face contorted with a mixture of anger and frustration.
"BASTARD!"
He wasted no time in chasing after Wang Xiao, his strides determined and swift.
While Wang Xiao was smaller and slighter in comparison, it was evident that a direct physical confrontation wouldn't end well for him.
However, Wang Xiao had no intention of testing his physical strength against Hao Zemin. He was in no mood for a brawl, especially one where he'd likely end up on the losing side.
His feet pounded against the ground as he sprinted, propelled by a fervent desire to escape unscathed.
He continued running until he spotted Mo Xiang stepping out of the temple gates as well. Their eyes met, and in that instant, Mo Xiang's expression shifted from confusion to comprehension.
He quickly grasped the situation unfolding before him.
As he raced away, Wang Xiao couldn't help but chuckle inwardly, a sense of luck and relief flooding over him. 'Today is my lucky day,' he thought, grateful for the unexpected turn of events that seemed to be working in his favor.
Wang Xiao finally came to a halt, seeking refuge near the trunk of a robust saponaria tree.
He turned his gaze back, assessing the situation as Hao Zemin also paused, believing that Wang Xiao had given up.
The faint hint of a triumphant smile played on Hao Zemin's lips as he prepared to gloat in his apparent victory.
However, his victorious expression swiftly turned to one of shock and confusion. Suddenly, a strong grip closed around his neck from behind, lifting him off the ground with surprising force.
His eyes widened in alarm, a strangled sound escaping his lips as he found himself suspended in the air.
"Huh?"