Forcefully Doting On You - v2c1

 

Chapter 33: The Peach-Scented Omega

In the spacious and bright living room, Mu Cai, sitting on the sofa, felt that his face was going stiff from smiling.

He was currently on a blind date.

The alpha sitting opposite him had the proper posture – a straight and firm figure, and a calm and cold demeanor, naturally radiating an air of superiority.

This was the protagonist of this world, Claire.

Claire's mother, Evelyn, looked at him with undisguised admiration in her blue eyes. "Cai Cai, you're getting more and more beautiful. You really resemble your mother when she was young. Don't you think so, Xue Zhen?"

Upon hearing the compliment, Mu Cai's mother, Shi Xue Zhen, glanced at Mu Cai and then turned her head away shyly. "Don't be like that, Evelyn. You're really too good at giving compliments."

The praised omega sank into the soft sofa, appearing very behaved indeed. Upon hearing Evelyn's words, a blush spread across his fair face, his long eyelashes quivered, and he bashfully lowered his eyes.

Evelyn found herself liking Mu Cai more and more. After staring at him for a while, she suddenly remembered the purpose of her visit. Hurriedly pulling her son Claire closer, she said with a smile, "Cai Cai, this is your brother Claire. You met him when you were kids; I wonder if you still remember him?"

Claire might not remember the original body, but Mu Cai knew for sure that the original body remembered Claire.

According to the original story, even though the original body and Claire only met a few times when they were young, the original body had always liked this cold and handsome alpha brother.

Mu Cai quickly glanced at Claire, who was sitting silently like a wooden stake next to him, and then lowered his head pretending to be shy, saying, "I remember."

As long as Cai Cai liked her son, that would be more than half the battle won.

"If you remember, that's good, that's good." Evelyn looked at Mu Cai's appearance and felt that her matchmaking might work.

As for her son, who had been as unromantic as a block of wood for twenty-two years, once he spent some time with Cai Cai, he would surely come to like him!

Evelyn quickly asked again, "I heard from your mother that you'll be entering the Imperial Mecha Academy this summer? So Cai Cai and our Claire will be alumni. Claire is studying in the Mecha Combat Department, which department will you be studying in, Cai Cai?"

Mu Cai replied, "The Mecha Repair Department."

As the name implies, the Mecha Repair Department is a specialized field dedicated to the care and maintenance of mechas.

The original body was a delicate omega, unable to bear heavy burdens or exert much strength, and without the abundant physical power required to pilot a mech in high difficulty battles, or to work within the smoky and dusty mech manufacturing factory. Thus, he naturally chose the Mecha Repair Department.

Evelyn laughed and said, "That's great, that's wonderful. Maybe Cai Cai will be able to help when Claire's mecha has problems in the future."

Her words were merely meant as a joke, aimed at bridging the distance between the two children. After all, Claire's mech already had a designated mecha repairer, and Evelyn could hardly bear the thought of the fair-looking Mu Cai doing such strenuous work.

However, she did not anticipate the portly middle-aged man sitting on the other sofa to huff, "What's the use of studying this? If he was so insistent on attending the Imperial Mecha Academy in the first place, why didn't he go for the Mech Combat Department? Piloting a mecha is what gives you prestige!"

The speaker was none other than Mu Cai's father, Mu Hong'an.

The smile on Evelyn's face vanished instantly. She had already viewed Mu Hong'an with contempt. When his harsh words dismissed her well-intentioned suggestion, she coldly retorted, "If it's so glorious, why don't you pilot one yourself?"

Evelyn's words directly hit Mu Hong'an's sore spot.

He was a beta with low psychic power, rated only at C, and hence, absolutely incapable of operating high-level mechas. Even more unfortunate, Mu Hong'an disdained the outdated low-level mechas, which ultimately left him with no other choice but to settle as an ordinary mecha maker in the logistics department of the military.

His inability to operate high-level mechas had always been a thorn in his side. Now that Evelyn had given him a jab, his face was a picture of discomfort.

Indifferent to the distress noticeable on his face, Evelyn continued, "If you don't have the ability, don't force it on others. Besides, our Cai Cai is an omega; he's not designed for combat. The fact that he's willing to study in the Mecha Repair Department of the Imperial Mecha Academy and contribute on the battlefield in the future is already commendable."

Mu Hong'an's face was initially dark, but on hearing this, he instantly revived, "Who said omegas aren't suitable for combat? Mu Feng, who's also an omega, was accepted into the Mecha Combat Department with high scores!"

As soon as he finished speaking, almost subconsciously, everyone's gaze shifted to the man sitting in the corner of the sofa.

Mu Feng was also an omega. But compared to a typical omega, he seemed to be taller and sturdier, with darker skin, appearing more like a beta from an outward perspective. Sensing everyone's gaze, he seemed a bit flustered and couldn't help but lower his head.

Evelyn looked at Mu Hong'an's smug expression and sneered, "So what? Our Léon family doesn't lack people who can operate mechas, and neither does the entire federation lack alpha mecha operators."

In an instant, Mu Feng's gaze dimmed.

Mu Cai silently watched this scene unfold.

Mu Feng was the main male character in the original story and the half-brother of the original body. He was also the product of Mu Hong'an's infidelity. It wasn't until the other party's mother passed away and Mu Hong'an brought Mu Feng home that the original body and Shi Xue Zhen found out about his existence.

The original body really disliked this younger brother and always treated him like air. When Mu Feng later fell in love with Claire, the original body would often hurl malicious words at him.

Evelyn's feelings were even stronger on this matter.

She was Shi Xue Zhen's close friend, and even though she knew that the child was innocent, she didn't like this glaring proof of her best friend's husband's infidelity.

Evelyn wasn't one to hold a grudge against a child. Since she entered the house, she had simply chosen to ignore Mu Feng's presence.

However, Mu Hong'an was foolishly infatuated. He knew full well that Evelyn came to play matchmaker for Mu Cai and Claire, but he insisted on bringing Mu Feng out, which was very inappropriate.

Evelyn couldn't be more aware of the other party's intentions. Aren't they just trying to make Claire and Mu Feng hit it off, so that they can marry this illegitimate child off to the future heir of the Léon family?

Upon hearing this, Mu Hong'an's face turned so dark that it seemed as though water could drip from it.

Claire, who had been aloof throughout, finally broke the silence, "The Zerg seems rather restless and the alliance is becoming somewhat unruly. We are currently understaffed at the front, so it's worthwhile to encourage omegas interested in operating mechas. If they really excel at it, the military will definitely welcome them."

His voice was as cold as his demeanor. While it may not have been what Mu Hong'an wanted to hear, it was a relief nonetheless.

Mu Feng gratefully smiled at Claire, who simply nodded in return.

As Mu Cai sat there taking in everything, he couldn't help but feel excited.

In the original version, on this meeting that was supposed to be for him and Claire, the main male characters started to get along well. Being the astute villain that he was, he picked up on this and initiated his pursuit of Claire and his efforts to suppress Mu Feng.

He was thrilled by how well the scene has played out this time, it was spot-on and unbiased. More importantly, it was already clear to him that the main characters were hitting it off, which brought him great joy.

While the energy collected last time was deemed perfect by Old Huang after emerging from the energy field, the precocious end due to a sudden surge of energy left Mu Cai somewhat disgruntled.

An energy field that could have lasted steadily for another dozen minutes ceased suddenly, so much wasted potential energy that could have been converted into numerous sources of energy! Mu Cai was absolutely heartbroken!

He was convinced this was a result of the premature collapse of the last plot. Therefore, Mu Cai decided that he must strive to keep the plot intact this time, enabling the energy field to evolve more steadily.

Concealing his excitement with a pretended look of grievance, Mu Cai carried an air of disappointment.

His slender eyelashes drooped, his mouth pouted, and his cheeks puffed up a little, all adding up to a pitiful facade.

Looking at him, Evelyn couldn't help but feel deeply distressed.

The Omega Rights Movement has been vigorous in the last ten years, perhaps to the point of overcorrection. Presently, the narrative everywhere advocates that omegas should equal betas and alphas in capacity, ideally mastering mecha operation and managing households. The movement argues that omegas can also contribute significantly to society, and should not forget to work during pregnancy. Sweet and frail omegas are even mocked and disparaged, while strong, handsome omegas are highly sought after.

Evelyn found this prevailing trend rather disconcerting. She had no problem with omegas striving for strength and charisma, yet she couldn't understand why it was unacceptable for some to pursue beauty.

As a beta herself, she had always desired an adorable omega child to dress up and show off.

Unfortunately, she gave birth to an alpha. Her son, who usually behaved high-handedly without a hint of consideration, was now oblivious to the situation. He intruded right when she was in an argument, rendering her point ineffective.

Look at how wronged Cai Cai seemed!

Cai Cai was, in Evelyn's eyes, the most beautiful, well-behaved, and adorable omega she'd ever come across. He was everything she wanted in an omega.

Unable to bear Cai Cai's sorrow, she straightened up, her brows furrowing coldly as she said, "Enough, I came to see Cai Cai today. Once Cai Cai is finished, I will leave."

Saying this, Evelyn rose from her seat. With the hand clad in a lace-trimmed black glove, she adjusted her skirt and then announced haughtily, "Xue Zhen, Cai Cai, please see us out."

Upon hearing their intentions to leave, Mu Hong'an quickly glanced at Mu Feng, signaling him to rise and say goodbye to the guests, hoping this would grant Mu Feng and Claire more interaction opportunities.

However, the next moment, Evelyn bluntly said, "The rest of you need not come. Xue Zhen and I have some private matters to discuss, which we would prefer to keep confidential."

Mu Feng's eyelids twitched, and he promptly returned to his seat on the couch.

Anger appeared on Mu Hong'an's face.

Yet, he dared not express his resentment, considering the powerful Léon family stood behind Evelyn.

Mu Hong'an loathed prominent families like the Léon's, who held significant power throughout the empire and even made the royal family wary. However, he longed to see Mu Feng bring honor to their family and bring about a better life by marrying into a family like Léon's.

Evelyn had long seen through the likes of Mu Hong'an. Upon witnessing his reaction, she sneered internally, then supported Xue Zhen, took Mu Cai's arm, and signaled her son to follow them out.

Stepping outside, Evelyn gently patted Mu Cai and encouraged him to interact with Claire. She herself grasped Xue Zhen's hand and sternly admonished her, "You were born in the Shi family and married down to Mu Hong'an. Not only does he disrespect you, but he also cheated on you and relies on you. Can't you see what he's planning today?!"

"Back then, I advised you to divorce him, but you said it wasn't the right time for Cai Cai's sake and his studies. Now that he's been admitted into the Imperial Mecha Academy, what's stopping you? You should have realized this by now! Besides, your husband's a beta, and you're an omega; there's not even a bond between you two. What are you still worried about?!"

Xue Zhen fell silent.

In fact, she had considered this thought for a long time. Initially, Xue Zhen married Mu Hong'an out of love. However, since giving birth to their child, he had shown her less and less respect.

Xue Zhen had been understanding of him because she knew her own family. As one of the prominent families, they looked down on Mu Hong'an, who had no significant background or abilities. They didn't want to help, and it was normal for her husband to have some resentment. After all, a husband and wife should empathize with one another.

However, she didn't expect him to cheat on her. Their children were even born only a few months apart! When Xue Zhen found out, she felt her marriage was a joke. Yet, at that time, Mu Cai was in a critical period for exams, and she didn't want to affect him. Now, though, it was time for her to consider her own well-being for once.

Seeing Xue Zhen's determination in her eyes, Evelyn felt relieved and consoled, "Your uncle and aunt miss you very much. When you got married, they claimed to disown you. However, all these years, they've been asking me about you, and your room has always been kept for you."

Xue Zhen's heart instantly warmed.

She had known that her parents secretly helped them several times, but she never knew how to face them. Now, hearing Evelyn's words, her eyes became slightly moist and said, "Understood. I'll consult a lawyer later. I want a clean break during this divorce, and I need to ensure I receive what's rightfully mine."

Finally, a smile appeared on Evelyn's face. "That's my little Zhen," she proclaimed. "Stay at my place tonight, and I'll find you a lawyer!"

While the two mothers were whispering, Mu Cai and Claire were standing together.

Remembering his role, Mu Cai took the initiative to break the ice, "Brother Claire."

Claire's expression remained indifferent.

Undeterred, Mu Cai continued, "I'm about to enter the Mecha Repair Department at the Imperial Mecha Academy. I hope that I'll have the opportunity to maintain your mecha."

Claire turned his dark eyes towards him.

His features were sharp, with prominent eyebrows, a high nose bridge, and thin lips. He seemed a bit intimidating when not smiling. His voice was as cold as ice, "I have a dedicated mecha repairer. I don't need you."

Mu Cai was at a loss for words.

Even though he knew the protagonist didn't like him, being bluntly rejected made it hard for him to continue the conversation. Mu Cai couldn't help but admire the original owner of his role, who was always able to make conversation with the protagonist.

He, on the other hand, wasn't capable of that.

The young man in front of him lowered his eyelids, hiding his bright black eyes. He tightly pressed his lips together, and his hands clenched in front of him, seeming quite wronged.

Claire stared at him for a while before saying, "In another week, the Imperial Mecha Academy will start its new term. I will come to fetch you then."

The young man's face lit up immediately. His eyes curved, revealing two small canine teeth on his cherry red lips. "Thank you, Brother Claire!"

Claire's expression did not change. He watched the other party for a while before discreetly looking away.

His ears turned a little red.

________________________

Author's Notes:

Claire: I don't lack a mecha repairer, but I am in need of a wife. Cai Cai, would you like to come along?

Notes: The author included an extra story in the end notes. It's a sort of an alternate ending to Li Xuan and Yi Sheng's story in Xiaoxue Jiangshan. You can read the translation here if you're unhappy about the pair's original ending. (:зゝ∠)

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