Jian rue sprinted frantically from the grotesque gray alien, hurling stones desperately while gasping for breath. "Just leave me alone!!!" Before he could react, powerful arms encircled him, and Xing yu effortlessly hoisted him over his shoulder. "Xing yu, put me down! You bastard!!!" Jian rue thrashed against his captor, fuming. Xing yu's deep chuckle rumbled as a playful hand connected with his backside. "Relax, love—I'm rescuing you~" Jian rue sank his teeth into the man's shoulder, drawing blood. "I had everything under control! Release me!" The metallic taste flooded his mouth as Xing yu groaned. "Careful, baby—you're making this complicated~" Jian rue's resistance crumbled into confusion. "Why are you following me? Why me?" Xing yu planted his feet firmly, drew his blade, and dispatched the tentacled monstrosity with a single decisive strike. Lowering Jian rue gently, he pulled him close and tilted his chin upward, eyes smoldering with intensity. "Because you're my betrothed," he whispered.