C168 The Expert Was Jealous and Even the Water He Drank Was Targeted
"Let's call it quits for now, take a break!"
Yang Zitan braced himself on his knee, standing firm, and gestured to Lin Dong to stop.
His forehead was drenched with sweat, his hair completely soaked, and his body glistening with perspiration.
After half an hour of sparring, he had been drained of all his energy.
He simply couldn't go on any longer.
Lin Dong discarded the cushion he was holding and removed his protective gear, feeling the heat as well.
His leg muscle control was at its peak. Despite being active for the past half hour, he had efficiently used every muscle in harmony, conserving his strength.
Had Yang Zitan not suggested a break, he could have easily continued.
Just then, he caught sight of Zhang Meng approaching.
The man was carrying a bottle of water.
"Zitan, you must be exhausted after that bout. Have some water; I bought this Farmer's Spring especially for you!" Zhang Meng hurried over, his face creased with a sycophantic grin.
Lin Dong could read him like a book: a total sycophant.
Yang Zitan's brow furrowed.
"Don't be so familiar, Zhang Meng. I've already told you not to buy me things. I won't accept them. Drink it yourself," he said firmly.
With that, he walked over to the edge of the training area where a small cloth bag lay.
He pulled out two towels, handed one to Lin Dong, and used the other to dab at his sweat.
As he tilted his head back to wipe his brow, the elegant line of Yang Zitan's neck was exposed, drawing the eye irresistibly.
A gleam shone in Zhang Meng's narrow eyes.
Swallowing his desire, he said, "Zitan, if you don't fancy Farmer's Spring, I've also got chilled Coke, orange juice, and blueberry juice. Pick any flavor you like!"
Yang Zitan ignored him, turning to Lin Dong. "I'm heading to the changing room. Take a break. There's water in my bag for you. Let's do another round of training later!"
"Sounds good."
Lin Dong flashed an OK sign.
Yang Zitan offered a slight smile, his pleasant expression radiating a warmth like the gentle caress of spring.
She gave Lin Dong's shoulder a reassuring pat and said, "You did well today. Once the afternoon wraps up, I'll treat you to a feast."
Lin Dong was pleasantly surprised by her words.
He had braced himself for a beating from Yang Zitan just to blow off some steam, never anticipating her offer to take him out for a lavish meal. It was an unexpected delight.
Before Lin Dong could respond, Yang Zitan turned and strode toward the changing room.
Seizing the moment, Lin Dong clamped his mouth shut.
Silence was golden now. He couldn't afford to utter another word that might anger Yang Zitan and provoke a more severe backlash.
After Yang Zitan had gone, Zhang Meng glared at Lin Dong with envy.
He had gone out of his way to curry favor with Yang Zitan, buying her water and drinks, yet she had dismissed his efforts with indifference.
Yet she had graced Lin Dong with a warm smile and an invitation to dine out.
This was the kind of attention Zhang Meng longed for but could never seem to attain.
He was green with envy!
Lin Dong rummaged through Yang Zitan's bag and found a bottle of mineral water.
The cap was loose, and the water level had dropped, suggesting Yang Zitan had already taken a few sips.
Thirsty and unconcerned, Lin Dong grabbed the bottle and drank. The cool water, tinged with the faint taste of lipstick, soothed the heat radiating from his body.
"Hey kid, get over here! Didn't I make it clear that you're to stay away from my goddess? You're asking for trouble by not listening!" Zhang Meng bellowed, pointing at Lin Dong with an air of dominance.
"Go to hell, can't you see I'm drinking water?" Lin Dong shot back.
He had tolerated Zhang Meng's antics for long enough. He had no intention of starting a conflict, but Zhang Meng's relentless provocation was too much.
He couldn't even take a drink in peace!
Lin Dong was not one to hold back, and he was at the end of his rope.
If this guy kept up his whining, Lin Dong was ready to give him a lesson he wouldn't forget.
