《天堂旅館》長篇奇幻愛情小說

【十二】林曉陽派人保護黃敏華

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週末的塞納河畔跳蚤市場，人潮擁擠，熱鬧非凡。陽光透過樹影灑在舊物攤位上，古董、衣物、各式小飾品在陽光下閃閃發光，市集的空氣中彌漫著咖啡與街頭小吃的香氣。遊客穿梭其間，漫無目的地欣賞和挑選著每一個摊位上的珍品。
黃敏華身著一襲粉色洋裝，髮絲如瀑般披散，穿梭在人群中。她那清麗的外貌讓周圍的遊客不自覺地停下腳步，三個白人男子在她身後悄然跟隨，目光充滿了打量與興奮。黃敏華未曾注意到這一點，專心於攤位上的物品，偶爾抬眼與摊販交換幾句簡單的法語。
當她走到一個飲料攤位前，三個白人男子瞬間湧上來，將她圍住。第一個男子，長著一頭金色捲髮，笑容灑脱地向她開口：「美麗的女士，我能請你喝杯啤酒嗎？我保證不會讓你失望。」 他的語氣帶著幾分調侃，眼神中卻有著明顯的輕佻。
黃敏華微微皺眉，輕輕搖頭，語氣平淡：「謝謝，我不喝酒。」她感到有些不自在，但還是保持著優雅的姿態。
第二個男子，穿著藍色T恤，揚起嘴角說：「那麼，來杯冰咖啡如何？這樣的天氣，應該很解渴吧？」他的語氣變得有些不甘心。
黃敏華微笑，語氣平和：「謝謝，如果有需要，我會自己去買。」
她輕輕後退了幾步，想要脫離這些人的包圍圈。
然而，第三個男子，一位中等身材的白人，臉上帶著不悅的表情，語氣帶著一絲挑釁：
「東方的女士，總是這麼冷淡嗎？你們不會是總是拒人於千里之外吧？」 他的語氣中充滿了不屑。
黃敏華深吸一口氣，平靜地回答：「那要看對象是誰。如果我不喜歡被圍住的話，請讓路，這樣好嗎？」
她的語調雖然冷靜，但眼中卻不自覺閃過一絲堅定。
第一個白人男子輕笑，試圖緩和氣氛：「我們沒有惡意，女士。」他的手輕輕擺動，示意自己並非故意為難。
黃敏華依舊保持著淡定，語氣變得稍微堅定：「抱歉，我喜歡在這裡自由自在地走動，不希望被打擾。」
然而，第二個白人男子不死心，繼續說：「我們只是想和你交個朋友，這算不算打擾呢？」
黃敏華有些無奈地微微一笑：「是的，這就是打擾了。我聽說法國男人通常很有紳士風度，似乎你們應該更懂得分寸。」
她的語氣微帶嘲諷。
第三個男子有些氣憤，忍不住反駁：
「我們的確是紳士，但你怎麼那麼難接近呢？」
黃敏華的語氣不再那麼客氣，聲音提高了一些：「請讓路，這樣好嗎？ 」
她的語氣強硬，已經顯現出明顯的不耐。
三個男子相互對視了一下，臉上露出一絲無賴的笑容，並且沒有立刻撤退。周圍的攤販和遊客注意到這邊的動靜，投來異樣的眼光，一些人低聲竊笑，一些人則露出不滿的表情。
就在這時，邱慎之走到這邊，見情況不對，立即上前干涉：「年輕人，你們的行為，對這位女士似乎不太禮貌吧？」他語氣嚴肅，站得筆直，目光冷峻。
第三個男子不屑地伸出手指，指向邱慎之：「干你什麼事？黃種的糟老頭。」 他語氣粗暴，毫不掩飾自己的輕視。
邱慎之眼中閃過一絲冷笑，突然拿起手中的畫筆，迅速地在那個男子的臉上畫了一個大大的「X」。圍觀的群眾發出一陣哄笑，白人男子愣住了。
男子的臉上先是一陣錯愕，隨後怒火中燒，揮拳衝向邱慎之。邱慎之輕巧地閃身，手中的畫筆一點，劃在了男子的手臂上。瞬間，男子的整個身體僵硬，竟動彈不得，只能用眼珠轉動。
白人A和B見狀，臉上的笑意消失，取而代之的是驚慌失措。他們急忙喊道：
「天啊！你對我朋友用了什麼妖術？」
邱慎之嘴角微微上揚，語氣平淡：「沒什麼，只是給他一個小小的教訓，這是對他不尊重女士的懲罰。你們兩位有興趣試試嗎？」他平靜的語氣像是根本不把眼前的男子放在眼裡。
白人A面露驚恐，顯然不敢再挑戰。他們將僵硬的白人C架起來，狼狽地離開了現場。
周圍的攤販和遊客看到事情解決，紛紛對邱慎之投以熱烈的掌聲，表現出對他見義勇為的贊賞。
邱慎之轉過頭，微笑著看向黃敏華，關切地問：「小姐，妳沒受到驚嚇吧？ 」
黃敏華鬆了口氣，微笑著整理一下衣袖：「沒事，謝謝你幫我解圍。」
邱慎之笑了笑：「這裡偶爾會有這些無賴。聽你的口音，應該是華人吧？」
黃敏華點了點頭，語氣溫和：「是的，我來自台灣。」
邱慎之微笑，隨即改用流利的華語說：「原來如此，這裡常常有來自台灣的遊客。」
黃敏華好奇地問：「老先生，您也是畫家嗎？」
邱慎之謙和地笑了笑：「畫家稱不上，只是混跡街頭的畫師。」
黃敏華聽後，露出一絲驚訝的神情：「我來巴黎留學，學習繪畫。」邱慎之親切地說：「原來我們是同行。我來自上海，不過那是很久以前的事了。」
黃敏華愣了一下，突然笑了起來：「老先生來自上海？真巧，我爺爺也是來自上海，他也是學美術的。」
邱慎之眼中閃過一絲驚訝：「黃立華？妳爺爺叫黃立華？」
黃敏華也有些驚訝：「老先生認識我爺爺嗎？」
邱慎之微微遲疑，然後搖了搖頭：「不，不認識，但聽過他的大名。「他心中暗自想道：「真是冤家路窄，黃立華的孫女竟然在這裡遇到我…」
邱慎之隨即問：「妳在巴黎那所大學讀美術？」
黃敏華點頭：「是的，巴黎大學藝術學院。」
邱慎之接著問：「妳住學校宿舍嗎？」
黃敏華答道：「是的，住學校宿舍。」
邱慎之露出一絲微笑：「有沒有興趣像我一樣，在這裡幫遊客畫人像，賺些生活費？」
黃敏華略顯猶豫：「恐怕不行，課程排得很滿。」
邱慎之不死心，繼續說：「那麼，假日裡要不要我幫妳導覽？這裡有很多博物館值得一看。」
黃敏華微笑，婉拒道：「謝謝您的好意，系裡有規劃參訪活動。」
邱慎之心裡盤算著：「這女孩生性謹慎，我得套問出她的電話來…」他輕輕一笑，問道：「那麼，妳方便留個手機號碼給我嗎？有空時可以和妳一起共進晚餐。」
黃敏華微微一笑，答道：「好吧，但我不一定常有空。」她拿出便條紙，寫下姓名和手機號碼，遞給邱慎之。
邱慎之微笑著接過：「不要緊，妳若有空，也可以主動約我。」
黃敏華向他揮了揮手，說：「謝謝，老先生，我們應該會再見面的。」
她輕快地轉身，繼續向市場深處走去。
邱慎之目送她離去的背影，心中暗想：「這次的相遇，似乎不是偶然…」

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傍晚，林曉陽來到校門口接黃敏華下課，敏華坐上房車。
黃敏華立馬問：「你電話裡語氣很急，一會兒說安妮就是謝慧君，一會兒又說安妮自稱是一隻吸血鬼，我都被你給搞糊塗了！」
林曉陽把那冊日記本遞給黃敏華看，敏華看完感嘆說：「我服安妮了！真的服她！就算她是一隻吸血鬼，也是一隻有良心的吸血鬼…。」
林曉陽感性地說：「和安妮相處的這兩天，其實我心裡很矛盾，既期待安妮就是失蹤的慧君，又擔心傷害了妳…。」
黃敏華微笑說：「我的心情同樣不好受啊！擔心自己成為介入妳感情世界的第三者。」
林曉陽說：「安妮說她是隻吸血鬼，我左思右想，總算整理出一些頭緒。」
黃敏華問：「喔？你說說看！」
林曉陽娓娓道來：「慧君孤身來歐洲自助旅行，極可能不幸慘遭吸血鬼毒手，並且被吸血鬼施了法術，洗掉以前的記憶。而她說自己身負任務來接近我，可能就是被控制她的那夥吸血鬼指使。」
黃敏華點頭說：「你分析得合情合理，安妮主動離開你，應該是你對慧君的深情感動她，喚醒了她的良知。你只能往好的地方去想，你跟慧君情深緣淺。」
林曉陽長嘆一聲：「唉！當時我要是不意氣用事，跟她起爭執，也不會連累她變成吸血鬼…。」
黃敏華突然想起邱慎之這個老先生說：「上午我在塞納河的市集，遇見一個會法術的華人人像畫師…」
林曉陽打斷她說話：「那人叫邱慎之，自稱是黃老前輩的學生，我說的沒錯吧？」
黃敏華訝異地問：「怎麼？你已經見過他？」
林曉陽提醒說：「妳要小心提防邱，他也是隻吸血鬼，而且是妳爺爺的仇家。」

黃敏華聽著，渾身發冷說：「怎那麼恐怖？我走在街上，隨便都能遇到吸血鬼？」
林曉陽微笑說：「所以，我和妳爺爺都不想妳被牽涉進來。妳爺爺先前給妳一只十字架，以後妳隨時帶著它，我不在妳身邊時，十字架可以代替我保護妳。」
黃敏華接著說：「糟糕，那邱老先生…，那姓邱的跟我打聽了學校和科系，還有我住宿的情形，我該怎麼辦？」
「妳隻身在外，防人之心不可無」林曉陽想了一下接著說：「這陣子妳盡可能不要落單，離開學校時一定要找同學同行。」
黃敏華央求說：「曉陽，你不能留下來陪我嗎？」
林曉陽說：「我得回去瑞士，那裡還有一些是等著我處理。」
黃敏華不安地說：「可是，人家會害怕啊！」
林曉陽說：「這樣吧！我找個信得過的女員工，陪妳一起住，妳就搬去我現在住的地方。」
黃敏華問：「你現在住的地方？不就是安妮留給你的那戶公寓？」
林曉陽說：「是啊！今天我就陪妳回宿舍，幫妳把行李都搬去公寓，等我安排的人抵達，我就回去瑞士。」
「謝謝你，曉陽。」黃敏華身體偎過來，親了一下曉陽的臉頰，對於曉陽貼心的安排，敏華感到很窩心。

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瑪格麗特接到林曉陽的電話後，迅速將情況報告給威爾森，隨即收拾起簡單的行李，搭上列車，心中滿是焦慮。巴黎的空氣帶著淡淡的霧氣，夜幕漸漸低垂，街道的燈光在朦朧的光影中閃爍不定。列車行駛時，車窗外的景色快速倒退，她的心跳也隨著目的地的接近愈發加速。
終於，她來到了黃敏華的公寓樓下，步伐輕快卻又謹慎，像是隨時準備迎接突如其來的風暴。她微微抬頭，看著這棟古老的大樓，心裡暗自下定決心，無論面對什麼，她都將竭盡所能保護黃敏華。
她找到那扇不起眼的公寓門，輕輕敲了敲。門開了，林曉陽已經在那裡等她。
「瑪姬，妳到了。」林曉陽的聲音低沉且帶著一絲疲憊，他的眼神中卻充滿了責任感。
瑪格麗特點點頭，迅速收回行李，跟著他走進公寓，並仔細環視四周。她的目光如銳利的刀鋒，逐一掃過每個角落，生怕漏掉任何一絲危險的蛛絲馬跡。
「瑪姬，以後妳就貼身保護黃小姐，盡量不要讓她離開妳的視線。」林曉陽語氣堅定，眼神深邃，彷彿每個字都帶著沉重的責任。
瑪姬聽後，微微一躬身，手肘輕彎，雙手交叉放於胸前，標誌性地回應道：「是的，老板。」
她的語氣雖然平靜，但手指的微微顫抖，顯示出她內心的緊張。她已經習慣每一次的任務，但這一次，感覺格外不同。
林曉陽沉默了一會兒，走到窗邊，凝望著夜空，目光深遠而冷冽。他轉過身來，眼神變得更加鋭利：「如果遇到邱慎之，妳要謹慎應對，別讓小姐受到任何傷害。」
瑪姬微微蹙眉，神情更顯堅定，低聲回應：「老板，我會盡全力保護小姐的安全。」
她的話語充滿力量，雙手緊握成拳，仿佛那一份誓言已經深深埋在心底，無論面對什麼，這份責任都無法逃避。
林曉陽點了點頭，似乎對瑪姬的決心感到一絲安慰。他靠近門口時，轉過身來，帶著一絲不易察覺的微笑，但眼中卻仍藏著無盡的憂慮。

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林曉陽踏進天堂旅館的大門，迎接他的不是通常的寧靜，而是羅伯特那熟悉的笑容和溫暖的問候。
「老闆，你回來了！」
羅伯特站在接待櫃台後，揚起手中的毛巾，笑容親切得像是多年的老朋友。
林曉陽微微點頭，低聲問道：「「威爾森和黃立華他們人呢？」
羅伯特凑近，聲音小得幾乎成了耳語，「公主找他們去開會，等一會兒他們就回來了。」他說著，目光四下掃視，似乎擔心有人聽見。
林曉陽的眉頭微微一挑，眼中閃過一絲警覺，「最近店裡有沒有出現可疑的人？」
羅伯特攤開雙手，語氣稍微沉重，「有幾個安德森的爪牙來這裡度假休息，但看情形他們不像是來打探消息的。」他補充道，似乎對這些人沒什麼太大擔憂。
林曉陽點點頭，嘴角勾起一抹微笑，「辛苦你了，老掌櫃。」
他拍拍羅伯特的肩膀，欣慰之情溢於言表。走回504號房，林曉陽放下手中的筆記型電腦和相機，隨即坐在了沙發上。他剛想稍作休息，突然，客廳的壁畫微微震動，接著，一道門似乎在畫中開啟，黃立華、威爾森和阿多諾相繼走了出來。
林曉陽看著他們，微笑著問：「你們回來了？」
黃立華瞇著眼睛，挑起眉毛，「你回來多久了？」
「我剛到。」林曉陽解釋道，「掌櫃說你們被公主叫去開會。」
黃立華點頭，隨口說道：「是啊，瑪莉亞公主當面給了我們一些指示。」
林曉陽好奇地問：「喔？公主都說了些什麼？」
威爾森故作神秘，嘴角帶著一絲笑意，「公主說她的安排已經做好，我們只需要按她的指示行動，親愛的老板。」他說著，語氣帶著一絲玩笑。
林曉陽微微蹙眉，「那我呢？我要配合你們做什麼？」
阿多諾的表情變得嚴肅說︰「公主說你的封印已經解開，並且預言你將在關鍵時刻發揮決定性作用。」
林曉陽苦笑，搖頭自語，「這公主真不簡單，我才剛解開封印，她怎麼就知道了？」
黃立華望著他，眼中帶著一絲理解，「這並不奇怪，公主和你前世是夫妻，你們心靈相通。」
林曉陽似乎豁然開朗，眼神一亮，「原來如此！可是我卻感覺不到她。」
黃立華微笑著，語氣溫和，「從你住進這間房間開始，公主就一直在你身邊，這幅壁畫其實就是公主的一雙眼睛。」
林曉陽嘆了一口氣，揉了揉額頭，「那我豈不是連一點隱私都沒有了？」
威爾森挑了挑眉，語氣輕鬆地說：「Boss，公主讓你去一趟羅馬梵諦岡，把她的親筆信交給一位叫陳約翰的華人神父。陳神父是宗教界的妖魔鬼怪克星，專門抓僵屍和吸血鬼。他和瑪莉亞公主私交甚好，看過信後，他會和你一起回來，幫我們解決麻煩。」
阿多諾接著補充：「在你離開的這十天，我們會完成一切部署，Boss。」
林曉陽沉思片刻，最終點了點頭，「好吧！既然公主已經安排好了，那我就充當一次信差吧。」
黃立華的眼神變得更深邃，「其實，公主讓你去見陳約翰，還有別的用意。」
林曉陽眼中閃過一絲困惑，「怎麼樣的用意？黃老前輩一定知道。」
黃立華微微一笑，「我當然知道公主的用意，但這必須你親自去經歷。」
林曉陽無奈地笑了，「好吧！你們一個比一個神秘，只有我是一個傻瓜。」

【Twelve】Lin Xiaoyang Sends Someone to Protect Huang Minhua

41

On the weekend, the flea market along the Seine was crowded and bustling with activity. Sunlight filtered through the shadows of the trees and fell across the stalls of old goods. Antiques, clothing, and all kinds of small ornaments glittered in the sunlight, while the air of the market was filled with the aromas of coffee and street food. Tourists moved among the stalls, aimlessly admiring and selecting treasures from each vendor.

Huang Minhua wore a pink dress, her hair cascading loosely down her back as she moved through the crowd. Her beautiful and delicate appearance made the tourists around her unconsciously stop and look. Three white men quietly followed behind her, their eyes filled with curiosity and excitement. Huang Minhua did not notice them at all, concentrating on the items at the stalls and occasionally exchanging a few simple words in French with the vendors.

When she reached a beverage stall, the three white men suddenly moved toward her and surrounded her. The first man, with curly blond hair, spoke to her with a carefree smile. “Beautiful lady, may I buy you a beer? I promise I won’t disappoint you.” His tone was somewhat teasing, but there was obvious lewdness in his eyes.

Huang Minhua frowned slightly and gently shook her head, her tone calm. “Thank you, but I don’t drink.” She felt somewhat uncomfortable, but still maintained her graceful composure.

The second man, wearing a blue T-shirt, raised the corners of his mouth and said, “Then how about an iced coffee? In weather like this, it should be pretty refreshing, right?” His tone had become somewhat reluctant to give up.

Huang Minhua smiled calmly. “Thank you. If I need one, I’ll buy it myself.”

She gently stepped backward several paces, trying to get out of their circle.

However, the third man, a white man of medium build, wore an annoyed expression and spoke with a provocative tone.

“Are women from the East always this cold? Do you always keep people at a distance?” His voice was filled with disdain.

Huang Minhua took a deep breath and answered calmly, “That depends on who it is. If I don’t like being surrounded, please let me through. Would you mind?”

Although her tone remained calm, a trace of determination flashed involuntarily in her eyes.

The first white man gave a soft laugh, trying to ease the tension. “We mean no harm, ma’am.” He gently waved his hand, indicating that he was not deliberately trying to make things difficult for her.

Huang Minhua remained composed, but her tone became slightly firmer. “I’m sorry, but I like to walk around here freely, and I don’t want to be bothered.”

However, the second white man refused to give up and continued, “We just want to make friends with you. Does that count as bothering you?”

Huang Minhua gave a slightly helpless smile. “Yes, it does. I’ve heard that French men are usually very gentlemanly. It seems you should know better where to draw the line.”

There was a trace of sarcasm in her voice.

The third man became somewhat angry and could not help arguing back.

“We are gentlemen. But why are you so difficult to approach?”

Huang Minhua was no longer as polite. She raised her voice slightly. “Please let me through. Would you mind?”

Her tone was firm, and her impatience was now obvious.

The three men exchanged glances, wearing sly, shameless smiles, and did not immediately back away. The nearby vendors and tourists noticed what was happening and cast strange looks in their direction. Some whispered and snickered, while others showed expressions of displeasure.

Just then, Qiu Shenzhi walked over. Seeing that something was wrong, he immediately stepped in. “Young men, your behavior toward this lady doesn’t seem very polite, does it?” His tone was stern. He stood straight, his gaze cold and sharp.

The third man disdainfully pointed a finger at Qiu Shenzhi. “What’s it got to do with you, you lousy old Asian?” His tone was crude, and he made no attempt to conceal his contempt.

A cold smile flashed across Qiu Shenzhi’s eyes. He suddenly picked up the paintbrush in his hand and quickly drew a large “X” on the man’s face. The onlookers burst into laughter, and the white man froze in shock.

The man’s face first showed disbelief, then burned with anger. He swung his fist and charged at Qiu Shenzhi. Qiu Shenzhi nimbly stepped aside, then touched the man’s arm with his paintbrush. Instantly, the man’s entire body stiffened. He could not move at all, except for his eyes.

White Men A and B saw this, and the smiles disappeared from their faces, replaced by panic. They hurriedly shouted,

“Oh my God! What kind of black magic did you use on my friend?”

The corners of Qiu Shenzhi’s mouth lifted slightly, and his tone remained calm. “Nothing. I’m just giving him a little lesson. This is his punishment for disrespecting a lady. Would either of you like to give it a try?” His calm tone made it seem as though the man standing before him was not worth his attention at all.

White Man A looked terrified and clearly did not dare challenge him again. The two men supported the rigid White Man C between them and hurriedly left the scene.

Seeing that the matter had been resolved, the surrounding vendors and tourists applauded Qiu Shenzhi enthusiastically, showing their appreciation for his willingness to stand up for the woman.

Qiu Shenzhi turned around and looked at Huang Minhua with a smile. Concerned, he asked, “Miss, are you all right? Did they frighten you?”

Huang Minhua breathed a sigh of relief and smiled as she straightened her sleeve. “I’m fine. Thank you for helping me out of that situation.”

Qiu Shenzhi smiled. “There are occasionally some troublemakers around here. From your accent, I assume you’re Chinese?”

Huang Minhua nodded, her tone gentle. “Yes, I’m from Taiwan.”

Qiu Shenzhi smiled and immediately switched to fluent Mandarin. “I see. There are often tourists from Taiwan around here.”

Huang Minhua asked curiously, “Sir, are you a painter too?”

Qiu Shenzhi smiled modestly. “I wouldn’t call myself a painter. I’m just a street artist making a living around here.”

Huang Minhua looked slightly surprised. “I came to Paris to study abroad and study painting.”

Qiu Shenzhi said warmly, “So we’re in the same line of work. I’m from Shanghai, although that was a very long time ago.”

Huang Minhua paused, then suddenly laughed. “You’re from Shanghai? What a coincidence. My grandfather was also from Shanghai. He studied art too.”

A look of surprise flashed across Qiu Shenzhi’s eyes. “Huang Lihua? Your grandfather’s name is Huang Lihua?”

Huang Minhua was also somewhat surprised. “Do you know my grandfather, sir?”

Qiu Shenzhi hesitated slightly, then shook his head. “No, I don’t know him, but I’ve heard of his name.”

He thought to himself, “What a small world. Huang Lihua’s granddaughter actually ran into me here...”

Qiu Shenzhi then asked, “Which university in Paris are you studying art at?”

Huang Minhua nodded. “Yes, at the Paris University School of Art.”

Qiu Shenzhi continued, “Do you live in the university dormitory?”

Huang Minhua answered, “Yes, I live in the university dormitory.”

Qiu Shenzhi smiled slightly. “Would you be interested in working here like I do, drawing portraits for tourists and making some money for living expenses?”

Huang Minhua hesitated slightly. “I’m afraid I can’t. My class schedule is very full.”

Qiu Shenzhi refused to give up and continued, “Then how about I show you around on your days off? There are many museums here worth visiting.”

Huang Minhua smiled and politely declined. “Thank you for your kindness. Our department has already arranged some field trips.”

Qiu Shenzhi thought to himself, “This girl is naturally cautious. I have to find a way to get her phone number...” He smiled lightly and asked, “Then would you mind giving me your cell phone number? When you have time, we could have dinner together.”

Huang Minhua smiled slightly and replied, “All right, but I may not have much free time.” She took out a piece of paper, wrote down her name and cell phone number, and handed it to Qiu Shenzhi.

Qiu Shenzhi accepted it with a smile. “That’s all right. If you have time, you can ask me out.”

Huang Minhua waved at him and said, “Thank you, sir. I’m sure we’ll see each other again.”

She turned lightly and continued deeper into the market.

Qiu Shenzhi watched her walk away and thought to himself, “This encounter seems like it wasn’t a coincidence...”

42

In the evening, Lin Xiaoyang came to the school gate to pick Huang Minhua up after class. Minhua got into the sedan.

Huang Minhua immediately asked, “You sounded so anxious on the phone. One minute you said Annie was Xie Hui-jun, and the next you said Annie claimed to be a vampire. You’ve completely confused me!”

Lin Xiaoyang handed the diary to Huang Minhua. After reading it, Minhua sighed. “I have to hand it to Annie! I really do! Even if she’s a vampire, she’s a vampire with a conscience...”

Lin Xiaoyang said emotionally, “During these two days with Annie, I’ve actually been very conflicted. Part of me hoped that Annie was the missing Hui-jun, while another part was worried that I would hurt you...”

Huang Minhua smiled. “I’m not feeling good about it either! I was worried that I might become the other woman in your relationship.”

Lin Xiaoyang said, “Annie said she was a vampire. I’ve thought it over from every angle, and I’ve finally managed to put some pieces together.”

Huang Minhua asked, “Oh? Tell me what you think!”

Lin Xiaoyang slowly explained, “Hui-jun came to Europe alone to travel independently. It’s very possible that she unfortunately fell victim to vampires and that they cast a spell on her to erase her previous memories. And when she said she had been assigned a mission to approach me, she may have been acting under orders from the group of vampires who controlled her.”

Huang Minhua nodded. “Your analysis makes perfect sense. Annie’s decision to leave you on her own was probably because your deep love for Hui-jun moved her and awakened her conscience. You can only look at it from the positive side. You and Hui-jun had a deep connection, but your fate together was too brief.”

Lin Xiaoyang let out a long sigh. “If only I hadn’t acted out of anger and argued with her back then. Then she wouldn’t have ended up becoming a vampire because of me...”

Huang Minhua suddenly remembered something and said, “This morning at the flea market by the Seine, I met a Chinese portrait artist who knows magic...”

Lin Xiaoyang interrupted her. “That man’s name is Qiu Shenzhi. He claims to be Elder Huang’s student. Am I right?”

Huang Minhua asked in surprise, “What? You’ve already met him?”

Lin Xiaoyang warned her, “You need to be careful around Qiu. He’s also a vampire, and he’s your grandfather’s enemy.”

Huang Minhua felt a chill run through her body as she listened. “Why is it so terrifying? Can I just randomly run into vampires whenever I walk down the street?”

Lin Xiaoyang smiled. “That’s why your grandfather and I don’t want you to get involved. Your grandfather gave you a cross earlier. From now on, carry it with you at all times. When I’m not by your side, the cross can protect you in my place.”

Huang Minhua continued, “Oh no, that Mr. Qiu... Qiu asked me about my school and department, and where I was staying. What should I do?”

“When you’re on your own away from home, you can never be too careful about other people.” Lin Xiaoyang thought for a moment before continuing, “For the time being, try not to be alone. Whenever you leave school, make sure you go with a classmate.”

Huang Minhua pleaded, “Xiaoyang, can’t you stay here with me?”

Lin Xiaoyang said, “I have to go back to Switzerland. There are still some things waiting for me there.”

Huang Minhua said anxiously, “But I’m scared!”

Lin Xiaoyang said, “How about this? I’ll find a female employee I trust to stay with you, and you can move into the place where I’m staying now.”

Huang Minhua asked, “The place where you’re staying now? Isn’t that the apartment Annie left for you?”

Lin Xiaoyang said, “Yes. Today I’ll go back to the dorm with you and help you move all your luggage to the apartment. Once the person I arrange for you arrives, I’ll return to Switzerland.”

“Thank you, Xiaoyang.” Huang Minhua leaned toward him and kissed him lightly on the cheek. She felt deeply touched by the thoughtful arrangement Lin Xiaoyang had made for her.

43

After receiving Lin Xiaoyang’s call, Margaret quickly reported the situation to Wilson. She then packed a small amount of luggage, boarded the train, and was filled with anxiety. Paris was covered in a faint mist as night gradually descended. The streetlights flickered in the hazy glow. As the train moved, the scenery outside the window rushed backward, and her heartbeat quickened as she drew closer to her destination.

Finally, she arrived downstairs at Huang Minhua’s apartment. Her steps were light yet cautious, as if she were ready at any moment to face an unexpected storm. She looked up slightly at the old building and secretly made up her mind that no matter what she encountered, she would do everything in her power to protect Huang Minhua.

She found the inconspicuous apartment door and gently knocked. The door opened, and Lin Xiaoyang was already waiting for her there.

“Maggie, you’re here.” Lin Xiaoyang’s voice was low and carried a trace of fatigue, yet his eyes were filled with a sense of responsibility.

Margaret nodded, quickly brought in her luggage, followed him into the apartment, and carefully surveyed the surroundings. Her gaze was as sharp as a blade, sweeping across every corner one by one, afraid that she might miss even the slightest sign of danger.

“Maggie, from now on, you’ll personally protect Miss Huang. Try not to let her out of your sight.” Lin Xiaoyang’s tone was firm, his gaze deep, as if every word carried a heavy responsibility.

After hearing this, Maggie gave a slight bow, bent her elbows slightly, and crossed her hands in front of her chest in her characteristic response. “Yes, Boss.”

Although her tone was calm, the slight trembling of her fingers revealed the tension inside her. She was accustomed to every mission, but this time felt particularly different.

Lin Xiaoyang remained silent for a moment, then walked to the window and gazed into the night sky, his expression distant and cold. He turned around, his gaze becoming even sharper. “If you encounter Qiu Shenzhi, deal with him carefully. Don’t let anything happen to Miss Huang.”

Maggie frowned slightly, her expression becoming even more determined. She replied quietly, “Boss, I’ll do everything I can to keep Miss Huang safe.”

Her words were filled with strength. Her hands clenched into fists, as if that promise had already been deeply buried in her heart. No matter what she faced, she could not escape this responsibility.

Lin Xiaoyang nodded, seemingly somewhat reassured by Maggie’s determination. As he approached the door, he turned around with a faint, barely perceptible smile, but his eyes still concealed endless concern.

44

When Lin Xiaoyang stepped through the doors of Paradise Inn, he was greeted not by the usual tranquility, but by Robert’s familiar smile and warm greeting.

“Boss, you’re back!”

Robert stood behind the reception desk, raising the towel in his hand, his smile as warm and friendly as that of an old friend of many years.

Lin Xiaoyang nodded slightly and asked quietly, “Where are Wilson and Huang Lihua?”

Robert leaned closer, lowering his voice to almost a whisper. “The Princess called them to a meeting. They’ll be back soon.” As he spoke, his eyes swept around the room, as if he were worried that someone might overhear.

Lin Xiaoyang raised his eyebrows slightly, a trace of alertness flashing in his eyes. “Have there been any suspicious people around the hotel lately?”

Robert spread his hands, his tone slightly more serious. “A few of Anderson’s henchmen came here on vacation, but judging from the situation, they don’t seem to be here to gather information.” He added this as if he was not particularly worried about them.

Lin Xiaoyang nodded, the corners of his mouth lifting into a faint smile. “You’ve worked hard, old innkeeper.”

He patted Robert on the shoulder, his appreciation evident. He returned to Room 504, put down his laptop and camera, and then sat on the sofa. Just as he was about to rest for a moment, the mural in the living room began to tremble slightly. Then, a door seemed to open inside the painting, and Huang Lihua, Wilson, and Adornod emerged one after another.

Lin Xiaoyang looked at them and asked with a smile, “You’re back?”

Huang Lihua narrowed his eyes and raised his eyebrows. “How long have you been back?”

“I just got here,” Lin Xiaoyang explained. “The innkeeper said the Princess called you to a meeting.”

Huang Lihua nodded and said casually, “Yes. Princess Maria gave us some instructions in person.”

Lin Xiaoyang asked curiously, “Oh? What did the Princess say?”

Wilson pretended to be mysterious, a faint smile at the corners of his mouth. “The Princess said that her arrangements are already in place. We only need to act according to her instructions, dear Boss.” His tone carried a playful note.

Lin Xiaoyang frowned slightly. “What about me? What am I supposed to do to cooperate with you?”

Adornod became serious and said, “The Princess said that your seal has already been broken, and she has also foretold that you will play a decisive role at the critical moment.”

Lin Xiaoyang gave a bitter smile and shook his head as he muttered to himself, “This Princess is really something. I just broke the seal, so how did she already know?”

Huang Lihua looked at him with a trace of understanding in his eyes. “It’s not surprising. The Princess was your wife in your previous life, and your souls are connected.”

Lin Xiaoyang seemed suddenly enlightened, his eyes lighting up. “I see! But I can’t sense her.”

Huang Lihua smiled warmly. “From the moment you moved into this room, the Princess has been by your side. This mural is actually the Princess’s eyes.”

Lin Xiaoyang sighed and rubbed his forehead. “Then I don’t have even a little privacy, do I?”

Wilson raised his eyebrows and said casually, “Boss, the Princess wants you to make a trip to Vatican City in Rome and deliver a handwritten letter from her to a Chinese priest named Father John Chen. Father Chen is a nemesis of demons and monsters in the religious world, specializing in hunting zombies and vampires. He is a close personal friend of Princess Maria. After reading the letter, he will return with you and help us deal with our troubles.”

Adornod added, “During the ten days you’re away, we’ll complete all the arrangements, Boss.”

Lin Xiaoyang thought for a moment and finally nodded. “All right! Since the Princess has already made the arrangements, I’ll play the messenger this time.”

Huang Lihua’s gaze grew deeper. “Actually, the Princess has another purpose in sending you to meet Father John Chen.”

A trace of confusion flashed across Lin Xiaoyang’s eyes. “What kind of purpose? Elder Huang must know.”

Huang Lihua smiled slightly. “Of course I know the Princess’s intention, but this is something you must experience for yourself.”

Lin Xiaoyang smiled helplessly. “All right! All of you are more mysterious than the next. I’m the only fool here.”