Chapter 58: Painstaking Efforts

After dinner, Grandpa Si took Ou Yan on a tour around the villa, eventually reaching the top floor for a distant view.

"It's too dark now, and you can't see far. It's better during the day when you can see beautiful flowers, streams, and distant mountains. Yan Yan, you must come and see when you have time."

"Okay," Ou Yan glanced at the time, her voice soft, "It's not early anymore. I should go back."

"Don't go..." Grandpa Si was somewhat reluctant, "Stay a little longer?"

"I'll come back next time."

Seeing Ou Yan about to leave, Grandpa Si hurriedly winked at the steward, who understood and immediately ordered preparations secretly.

Ou Yan was led by Si Yechen, and as soon as they stepped off the elevator into the living room on the ground floor, all the lights in the entire villa went out.

"What's going on?" Grandpa Si pretended not to know, "How did the power go out suddenly?"

"It's strange. We've lived here for so many years and never encountered this situation! Let me see what's wrong. Please wait here, sir, young master, and young mistress. I'll be right back."

The steward pretended to be unaware and quickly left.

"Ah Chen, you take Yan Yan to sit on the sofa for a while," Grandpa Si instructed a servant nearby, "Go and fetch some candles and emergency lights."

"Sir, didn't you collect several beautiful emergency lights before?" a servant asked according to a pre-arranged plan.

"Oh, right, where did I keep them? Help me find them quickly." Grandpa Si also found an excuse to leave.

The large living room was now left with only Si Yechen and Ou Yan.

Si Yechen's lips curled up. The villa obviously had backup generators. Even if the power went out, there shouldn't be no light at all.

Was Grandpa intentionally giving them a chance to be alone?

Ou Yan waited for a while, then checked the time. "It's 8:30. Shall we leave?"

It's too late. My parents will worry.

Si Yechen pulled her into his arms. "It's still early. Stay with me a little longer."

"How long have I been with you today?"

"Just a few hours. Not enough." Si Yechen held her tighter. "I want to spend more time with you."

Ou Yan: ...

Why is he so clingy? He used to be so aloof...

"Let go. Grandpa might see..."

"He'll be even happier if he sees."

Upstairs,

The steward in the corner saw the old master being helped up and whispered, "Sir, over here!"

Grandpa Si hurried over, squeezed in beside him, and looked downstairs, "How's it going? Any progress?"

"They're just talking, nothing substantial."

"This Ah Chen! Why doesn't he make a move in the dark like this?" Grandpa Si thought for a moment. "Could it be that the atmosphere isn't right? Send someone to bring down those emergency petal lights and LED candles."

"Understood."

Soon, the living room was decorated with beautiful petal lights, and LED candles were placed on the tables, creating a romantic and ambiguous atmosphere.

"Wait a minute," Ou Yan stopped one of the servants arranging the candles, "Tell Grandpa that I'm leaving."

Facing this sudden situation, the servant was at a loss. "Madam, all the power is out. Why not wait a bit longer before leaving?"

"It's too late."

"But the main gate is locked, madam. You can't leave."

Ou Yan: ??

"All the doors in the house are specially customized with electronic intelligence. If there's a power outage, the doors won't open."

"Don't these doors have USB ports? You can charge them directly with a mobile power source." Ou Yan offered a solution.

"But there are no USB ports..."

"Then spare keys?"

"The keys... the keys are missing..."

"Then... take out the batteries from the lock that has no power and replace them with new ones."

"We don't have spare batteries either..."

Ou Yan: ...

What kind of door is this?! Nothing at all?

Seeing the servant's evasive eyes, Ou Yan immediately understood. She smiled and looked at the man in front of her. "Grandpa went to great lengths for you."

"It's for you." Si Yechen hugged her, saying each word, "He really likes you and wants you to stay."

Huh, stay and let this guy take advantage?

Impossible!

Her slender fingers pressed the keypad on the lock, and soon, the door opened.

The surrounding servants were stunned. How did Madam do it? The door was clearly locked...

Didn't the old master say that it absolutely couldn't be opened without power?!

Si Yechen didn't expect her to be able to bypass the system inside and make the password invalid directly. This little girl knows quite a lot of things.

"I pressed randomly. Let's go." Ou Yan took the lead to leave the door. But as she walked a few steps, she suddenly heard a voice.

"Madam, please wait. The old master suddenly feels uncomfortable in his heart. Please come and have a look!"

Ou Yan: ??

Regardless of the truth, Ou Yan hurriedly turned back.

With a servant holding a quaint emergency lamp leading the way, she was taken to Grandpa Si's room.

"Oh, my heart..." Grandpa Si lay on the bed, pretending to be sick again.

"Grandpa, what's wrong?" Ou Yan's fingers had just touched his wrist, and she understood everything.

"Madam, how's the old master? Is he okay?" the servant anxiously asked.

Ou Yan's lips curled up as she withdrew her hand lazily. "He's fine. If I must say something, it's probably from eating too much for dinner, feeling a bit bloated in the stomach."

Grandpa Si and the steward didn't expect Ou Yan to figure out so quickly that he was feigning illness, feeling somewhat embarrassed.

"Grandpa, rest well." Ou Yan didn't directly expose him, saying gently, "I really should go back now. My parents will worry if I'm late."

"Madam, please stay! What if the old master has a sudden emergency in the middle of the night, and we can't find a doctor for a while..." the steward tried to persuade her.

"Yes, you can stay in the room on the south side of the third floor. Ah Chen is in the north. You'll live separately." Grandpa Si added.

"Mainly, the house hasn't been so lively for a long time! You and the young master are usually busy with work and don't know when you'll be able to see the old master again..."

"You're the daughter-in-law of the Si family. It's reasonable to stay in the Si family! If you think it's inappropriate, I'll immediately arrange a marriage certificate for you two!"

Ou Yan: ...

There's really no need for this.

 Chapter 122: Watching Her Make a Fool of Herself

Jiang Chenchen raised her head and looked at Zheng Xinxin. "Did your dad take his medicine?"

Zheng Xinxin was completely stunned.

"..."

And then the matter was dropped.

Compared to the handsome guy's photo, they felt their lives were more important.

Staring at someone silently like this was a bit intimidating.

Seeing them turn back to the front, Jiang Chenchen, although finding it a bit strange, didn't think much about it. She did, however, pinch her phone in her pocket, tempted to open it and take another look at the photo.

With class about to start, she restrained that urge.

The morning classes quickly ended. At lunch, Jiang Chenchen was planning to go to the small shop. She almost left late, leaving only her and Bai Junwen in the classroom.

Bai Junwen grabbed the hem of her clothes, lowered his head, and dared not look into her eyes. "I... invite you to eat."

Regardless of yesterday or today, he wanted to thank her properly.

Jiang Chenchen thought for a moment. "Okay."

Although Bai Junwen didn't have much pocket money, she still had some for treating her to a meal.

To show sincerity, they went to a relatively high-end restaurant off-campus.

Unexpectedly, they ran into Bai Junwen's sister, Bai Junjun, at a nearby table. She was chatting and laughing with a group of girls, mentioning her birthday party.

The highlight was that she managed to invite the big star Lu Su.

"Lu Su will come for my birthday this time. My 17th birthday is extraordinary. I invite you all to witness it together!"

Bai Junjun said proudly, playing with her fingers. "What kind of nail art should I do for my birthday? Any suggestions?"

Several girls at the next table were very excited. "Really? Is it true? Lu Su! You managed to invite Lu Su?!"

Bai Junjun snorted, full of pride. "Yes, it's him! My birthday can make him come for me."

One of the girls found her boastful attitude hard to accept. "I'm just saying, Bai Junjun, you're exaggerating too much! I might believe it if you said it was some 18th-tier idol. Please, he is the top star Lu Su! Coming for your birthday? Don't joke!"

Bai Junjun glanced at her, eyes rolling. "Hey, don't believe it! Originally, I wasn't going to invite you after hearing what you said. But I want you to open your eyes wide and see if Lu Su will come or not! After all, your knowledge is limited!"

Bai Junwen, hearing his sister's self-righteous tone, apologized to Jiang Chenchen, grabbing her sleeve, lowering his eyes, and whispered, "Can we... change to another place?"

Obviously, he didn't want to run into his sister and didn't want to make things difficult for Jiang Chenchen. After all, inviting Lu Su was an impossible task.

Unexpectedly, Bai Junjun noticed them. One of Bai Junjun's classmates, with sharp eyes, said, "Junjun, is that your sister from the countryside over there?!"

Bai Junjun glanced over, frowned, and looked displeased. "Yeah, what's wrong?"

"Hey, your sister's friend next to her is so beautiful?! Is she the one on the recent school flower candidate list?!"

"Looks like a senior from Grade 3, the new transfer student! The one who defeated Jiao Jie!"

"Now that Jiao Jie is gone, isn't she the most awesome now?!"

"But she looks a bit dull and thin, doesn't seem very strong!"

Bai Junjun's face didn't look good. Originally, all the attention was on her. Now, all the attention was taken away, making her feel very unhappy.

"Bai Junwen, where did you get the money to eat here?"

Her questioning voice made those classmates secretly tsk-tsk. It seemed that a sister from the countryside was not worth much.

Bai Junwen didn't want to talk to her, especially under the gaze of so many eyes. He felt very uncomfortable.

He wanted to turn around and leave, avoiding the curious eyes.

However, Jiang Chenchen gently pulled her back. "What's wrong?"

Seeing them order dessert after having their meal, it looked delicious. So, she continued, "Let's eat here?"

Bai Junwen looked at her, his expression timid under the large black-framed glasses. He couldn't refuse and had no choice but to enter the various gazes.

They sat at the table next to Bai Junjun.

Seeing this, Bai Junjun raised her delicate eyebrows high. Her so-called sister was indeed timid and couldn't hold her ground. How far could she be pushed?

Her eyes flashed with cunning and mockery, quickly turning into a smiling face.

"Since you're also here to eat, why sit separately? Let's sit together! We've ordered a lot, and it would be a waste if we can't finish it!"

She was originally quite cute and adorable, and her smiling face seemed harmless, completely different from her previous demeanor.

That wasn't wrong.

Bai Junwen and Jiang Chenchen joined them, sitting together.

Bai Junjun ordered some dishes. "These are our specialties. You must try them since it's your first time here."

She didn't give them a menu to look at. Those classmates who often came with her exchanged glances.

Then, everyone started chatting.

"Junjun, why are you ordering such expensive dishes?"

"My sister is here. It's only right that she treats us, isn't it?"

"Why do you dislike your sister so much? She doesn't have much money!"

"Since she's here, she must have some money. It's not my concern."

"Then let's leave quickly later. It would be awkward if we stayed. This table is about to host a business banquet!"

"We'll see how I feel at that time."

"OK."

Several consecutive OKs were exchanged. They had planned it all out. Bai Junjun disliked her sister and wanted to see her make a fool of herself.

Dishes were served, all special and exquisite, expensive but tasty. Bai Junjun's classmates, originally thinking of leaving, couldn't resist ordering more. After all, Bai Junwen's sister would pay for everything.

This further increased the expense for this table.

Then Bai Junjun handed her card to Bai Junwen. "We're leaving. Enjoy your meal. You can use my card to pay later, and the password is my birthday."

After that, they left.

Bai Junwen felt that his sister's eyes were full of cunning as she handed over the card. It was quite unbelievable.

Watching Jiang Chenchen eating seriously and deliciously, Bai Junwen didn't disturb her. She silently took the menu and, when flipping to the prices, her hand trembled a bit.

So expensive?!

They ordered so many dishes; could this money cover her living expenses for a year?

She quickly closed the menu, took the card Bai Junjun left, and went to the counter to try to settle the bill.

She had a feeling that there might not be any money in the card, and her hands were trembling as she held it.

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 57: Si Yechen Thoughtfulness

"Yes," the steward acknowledged the old master's intention to leave, complying respectfully.

The attitude was almost like directly ushering someone out!

Li Yusha didn't expect such a drastic change in attitude from Grandpa Si towards her after he got to know Ou Yan.

Her embarrassment was palpable.

Even though Grandpa Si instructed the steward to attend to her, she didn't feel like staying, her face burning with embarrassment.

Ou Yan, that country bumpkin, should have caused some trouble. How could she possibly have earned Grandpa's favor?!

How did she manage to do it? How did she gain approval in such a short time?

"Since Grandpa is busy, I'll come another day," Li Yusha stood up, leaving the token of appreciation, "steward please give these things to Grandpa."

"The doctor said that Old Master doesn't need these things as he can't benefit from them," the steward respectfully stated, "Miss Yusha, why don't you take these back to your parents?"

"Steward..." Li Yusha didn't expect the old servant, who used to treat her with utmost respect, to keep his distance now.

"Take these things to Miss Li Yusha's car," steward Wen ordered, clearly understanding her intention in coming today, hoping to become the mistress of the young master.

Unfortunately, the young master's thoughts were now centered on Miss Ou Yan, and even the old master was very pleased with Miss Ou Yan.

She wanted to intervene? No chance!

On the other side,

Ou Yan finished her work and called Song Qiaoying on her phone, "Mom, you don't have to prepare dinner for me tonight."

Before she could state the reason, Song Qiaoying happily exclaimed, "I know, I know! Mr. Si just called to invite you to dinner at his place tonight as he has been discharged from the hospital."

Ou Yan didn't expect Grandpa to personally call her mom for such a small matter, feeling warmth in her heart.

"I also heard Mr. Si say that you saved him before! Although he didn't mention the specifics, during that ten-minute phone call, Mr. Si praised you highly and was very satisfied with you as his granddaughter-in-law!"

Ou Yan didn't expect Grandpa to mention this incident, feeling a bit surprised.

Thankfully, Grandpa didn't mention the details of the rescue, otherwise...

"Baby Yan Yan, how come Mom didn't know that you saved someone? You're amazing!"

While Song Qiaoying was delighted, she also felt the Bai family was ridiculous for letting go of such an outstanding, obedient, and sensible child. They had the nerve to put her up for adoption on the internet!

They simply lost there mind!

"You spend a good evening with Grandfather..." Song Qiaoying said a few more words before reluctantly hanging up the phone.

Li Yusha had just returned home and, upon hearing this, asked in surprise, "Sister saved Grandpa Si before?"

"Yes! I only knew about it from Master Si just now! I didn't expect Yan Yan to be so low-key!" Song Qiaoying was extremely fond of her biological daughter, who was becoming increasingly pleasing in every aspect.

Li Yusha thought to herself that it was probably when Grandpa Si fell ill, Ou Yan happened to be passing by and performed some chest compressions on him!

Was that enough to win Grandpa Si's heart?

She could do CPR too!

It's not that difficult!

Even books teach it!

It's just a pity she didn't show off in front of Grandpa Si. If she had, Grandpa Si would have liked her, not that rustic!

In the evening,

Grandpa Si stood at the door, anxiously waiting for two familiar figures.

Si Yechen helped Ou Yan out of the car, their intimate demeanor making Grandpa Si's mouth involuntarily curve up!

"Yan Yan, you're finally here! Are you tired from work? Come in quickly..."

As soon as Grandpa Si entered the door, he told the dozens of servants waiting there, "This is the young mistress, be respectful when you see her in the future."

"Good evening, young mistress!" The dozens of servants stood neatly, smiling at Ou Yan.

It was evident that they had been waiting here for a long time; some even had sweat on their foreheads and clothes.

Ou Yan:...

There was no need for such formality...

"Hello." Ou Yan nodded and followed Si Yechen into the house.

The flowers and plants in the courtyard were adorable, and Ou Yan was somewhat puzzled. Wasn't this Grandfather's residence? Why were there so many lovely plants?!

Si Yechen also noticed the changes here. Everywhere he looked, it was renewed, obviously deliberately cleaned up to leave a good impression on Yan Yan.

"Yan Yan, are you hungry? Dinner is ready." Grandpa Si led her to the dining room.

Four chefs and eight servants greeted her respectfully as they saw her.

Ou Yan:...

There was no need for such formality...

"Yan Yan, come over here," Grandpa Si patted the seat to his left.

One of the servants pulled out a chair for Ou Yan, and after she took her seat, Si Yechen sat beside her.

Four chefs personally served each dish, not only were they visually appealing and fragrant, but their presentation was also particularly elegant.

There were dishes like orange fragrant golden melon with bird's nest, black truffle abalone, rose foie gras with caviar, matsutake mushroom and chicken soup, steamed crab with black pork and vinegar sauce, handmade rice cakes with Boston lobster, wild rice stewed with sea cucumber, and so on.

"Yan Yan, try it while it's hot," Grandpa Si personally picked up the public chopsticks to serve Ou Yan.

But before Grandpa Si could, Si Yechen had already taken a piece of Boston lobster meat and naturally placed it into Ou Yan's bowl.

Grandpa Si: Does my grandson have such a considerate side?! Is he seeing things?

Steward Wen beside them widened his eyes, obviously unable to believe what he was seeing! The young master was actually personally feeding the young mistress?

Next, Si Yechen removed the crab shell and placed the crab meat into Ou Yan's bowl.

These days, eating with Ou Yan, he had gotten used to serving her and considering her feelings...

But in the eyes of Grandpa Si and Steward Wen, Si Yechen's actions were as rare as a comet hitting the Earth, making them feel astonished.

"You like seafood, eat more," Si Yechen was fully focused on preparing for her, not taking a single bite himself.

Amidst Grandpa Si's astonishment, he quickly smiled and asked, "Yan Yan, is it tasty?"

"Delicious."

"Thank you for the praise, Young Madam!" The four chefs bowed deeply, extremely grateful for Ou Yan's compliment.

The old master had said that if tonight's dinner could satisfy the young mistress, their wages for the month would double!

"You should eat too," Ou Yan didn't want Si Yechen to be busy, but Si Yechen kept serving her dishes. Whatever she ate a bit more of, whatever she temporarily didn't want to eat, he noticed silently and served her more of what she loved.

"Yan Yan, in the future, come and see Grandfather more often. Grandfather hasn't had such lively company in a long time!"

Before, Si Yechen was busy with work and sometimes didn't come for one or two months...

Although there were dozens of servants in Xiyuan, Grandpa Si's heart always felt empty. But today was different; he had family accompanying him, so this meal tasted especially delicious.

"Okay," Ou Yan obediently agreed.

"In the future, Yan Yan and I will come to accompany you more."

Hearing Si Yechen's words, Grandpa Si snorted in his heart. Before, when I asked you to come, you didn't come, now you're following your wife around!

 Chapter 121: The Feeling of Losing a Billion!

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 114: Cutting off Financial Paths

The entire surrounding tables fell silent, and the faces of Liu Xiaomei and the other worker's wife turned ugly.

If someone else had said these things, they wouldn't believe it. After all, Chen Chunli was Wang Hao's wife, and Wang Hao and Xiao Cheng were brothers. Could brothers really deceive each other?

The pre-banquet snacks, such as melon seeds and fruits on the table, were left untouched.

The thoughts at each table varied.

Bai Lu's sugar-roasted chestnut business was thriving, and she was about to finalize details for expanding sales with various partners. Everyone was excited and eager to cooperate.

Unexpectedly, someone went to the bathroom and heard some unfavorable gossip on the way. The situation took a turn.

The news of defaming Bai Lu's reputation, cutting off her financial paths, wasn't only heard by her.

Even Yu Fugui, who was welcoming guests outside the door, heard it.

The rumors were spreading systematically, and people at other tables occasionally looked towards Bai Lu's table, pointing and whispering.

They were speaking ill of Bai Lu and Xiao Cheng, mentioning their sugar-roasted chestnut business and the overall construction contracting.

It was clear that the news was about Bai Lu and Xiao Cheng selling sugar-roasted chestnuts and undertaking the overall construction contract.

It was obvious who they were talking about. Those who originally wanted to discuss business with Bai Lu fell silent, no longer mentioning anything related to representing sugar-roasted chestnuts.

Bai Lu didn't insist, guessing that the other party probably encountered someone on the way who spread some negative gossip.

The process of the logging project in the Xiao family had encountered some issues. Early this morning, Xiao Guofu came to find Xiao Cheng to go to the countryside.

He probably wouldn't be back until later.

Now they were sitting at the living room table, where words and whispers spread quickly. It wouldn't take long for the news to reach them.

Bai Lu's guess was correct, but the news of damaging reputations and cutting off financial paths spread not only to her.

Even Yu Fugui, anxious and angry, heard it.

The rumors and gossip were well-structured. People around kept looking towards Bai Lu's table, and occasional pointing and whispering occurred.

They were all saying unpleasant things about Bai Lu and Xiao Cheng, questioning their character, tarnishing their reputation, and cutting off their financial paths.

Though no names were mentioned, everyone at the table knew it was about Bai Lu and Xiao Cheng, the sellers of sugar-roasted chestnuts and the contractors of the new house.

Once heard, it was clear that this news was not only reaching them.

Yu Fugui, feeling both urgency and anger, had the detailed list of construction materials. Xiao Cheng had given it to him already, and he had checked it himself. As long as that list was available, any gossip could be dispelled.

However, at that time, he was in a hurry to go to the city to set up a fruit stall, so he handed the detailed list to Wu Xiuyun.

Now, Wu Xiuyun, along with her daughter-in-law and two children, went to greet the visitors who had come from Wu Xiuyun's family. They had traveled early in the morning from a remote mountain area, unfamiliar with the roads.

Yu Fugui didn't know where Wu Xiuyun had put the detailed list, and he couldn't find it after searching for a long time.

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 113: Cutting off Financial Paths

The entire table turned their heads simultaneously.

Wang Cuihua returned from the bathroom, hearing familiar scolding voices discussing Bai Lu, planning to walk past quickly.

Little did she know, she was called halfway.

Had to stop in her tracks.

Turning around, she met Chen Chunli's threatening gaze. To avoid getting slapped, she complied with her intimidating expression.

Wang Cuihua, widowed with no relatives in town, endured Chen Chunli's scolding without anyone to help her. The last time she received a couple of slaps from Chen Chunli was because she didn't speak favorably and didn't comply with Chen Chunli's wishes.

Chen Chunli's husband, Wang Hao, was also Xiao Cheng's brother, but Wang Cuihua's complaints about Chen Chunli to Xiao Cheng had no effect. Xiao Cheng didn't involve himself in women's conflicts.

Moreover, Chen Chunli was pregnant, and people tended to cut her some slack, fearing any potential harm to the unborn child.

Wang Cuihua was afraid of being slapped by Chen Chunli and afraid of being publicly scolded. However, her current good life was given by Bai Lu, and she didn't want to lose the golden opportunity of selling sugar-roasted chestnuts.

She could only sneak a peek at her escape route and then speak, "I don't know about other people's sugar-roasted chestnuts, but mine are good. The taste is the same as Aunt Wu's, so they sell out every day."

After saying this, she quickly ran away.

This response, while evading the core issue, was enough to prove that Bai Lu's business wasn't solely focused on benefiting Wu Xiuyun.

By not following Chen Chunli's intentions to falsely accuse Bai Lu, Wang Cuihua managed to escape without giving her a chance. Chen Chunli's face turned red like a pig's liver.

The gazes of everyone at the table swept across Chen Chunli's face, clearly questioning her earlier words.

Finally, it was the wife of a construction worker from the building team who broke the deadlock by bringing up the topic of the new house.

No one wanted an unpleasant atmosphere at the banquet. Other people joined in, praising Wen Xiuyun's spacious and bright new house, its good feng shui, and the beautiful decoration style.

Chen Chunli, however, sneered, "Spending so much money on contracting, of course, it looks good."

"I don't even know how many kickbacks were taken. It's just that the homeowner's family is foolish, doesn't understand the local construction market, and simply agrees to whatever price is quoted. They've been cheated without realizing it, even helping to count money willingly, eager to curry favor and get taken advantage of."

"A group of people worked hard to build the house, but the final wages they received aren't even enough to cover the details."

The wife of a construction worker named Liu Xiaomei, struggling with her own financial situation, frowned upon hearing Chen Chunli's words. "Didn't everyone get paid 600 yuan? Didn't we all receive the same amount?"

Another worker's wife also added, "That's right. Our family's Wang Youcai also received 600 yuan. I heard him say there were 25 people working together, with all the materials available. Wu Xiuyun's new house was built and painted in less than a month, and the wages were evenly distributed based on square footage."

"Windows and doors were handled separately by professionals, and Wu Xiuyun and her husband paid extra for that."

Others at the table were surprised to hear such high wages. "600 yuan in less than a month! Such high wages? I heard that in the neighboring county, the sugar factory workers get only 300 yuan a month, and brickyard workers get even less at 260!"

Liu Xiaomei nodded, "Not even the nearby city pays this much. Our Afu said that working with Xiao Cheng means they are never mistreated."

"Even mistreated, you wouldn't know!" Chen Chunli sarcastically sneered, "All the construction money is in their hands. How much they take, can you know? Maybe they take 6,000, and you get 600. Is that called a lot?"

"Really?" Liu Xiaomei, finding it hard to believe, hesitated, "He said they calculate the construction wages per square meter. Everyone knows how much money is spent on each square meter. Can they lie about that?"

Others at the table also nodded, finding it hard to believe that Xiao Cheng would take such large kickbacks.

Chen Chunli, looking at them like they were fools, said, "It is calculated per square meter, but do you think they tell you how much they receive from the homeowner per square meter? What they tell you and what they get from the homeowner can be different. How much money was spent on materials, what they tell you, and the money they quote to the homeowner can be different, right?"

"Even my husband, Wang Hao, is so silly and weak. Despite their close brotherly relationship, he doesn't dare to ask more questions. They sweet-talk him a bit, and he thinks he's gotten a good deal. He rushes over to work like an ox, doing all the hard labor..."

"Even the husband is so greedy for kickbacks. How can the wife get anything good? Even if the sugar-roasted chestnuts she gives you are of good quality, who knows how much kickback she takes after selling them? Who knows how much she takes behind your back?"

Chen Chunli always remembered the grudge of being rejected by Bai Lu for joining the sugar-roasted chestnut business. She cast doubt with a tone of certainty, instantly causing an uproar at the table and the neighboring gossip table.

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 122 Cake

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 121 Spreads

Next Chapter ▶▶

Chapter 577: Miss Su, What a Ignorant Fool!

"It's too late."

Hou Yirong stood up, his voice deep and dangerous.

He took a deep breath and softened his tone a bit. "Rest early. Leave the rest to me and take good care of yourself."

Third Young Master replied, "Understood, I should be heading back tomorrow."

Hou Yirong frowned and disagreed, "Don't bother, the temperature has dropped these days. With your current health, you can't bear any exposure to the wind. If his condition worsens, it'll be difficult to keep it from Qin Ruan."

Third Young Master sighed, "It's been days since Ruan Ruan saw me."

Although it sounded like a helpless tone, Hou Yirong sensed something else in his words.

His lips twitched, and he said insincerely, "Third Brother, you being fallen from grace gives me an unreal feeling."

"Now that I'm a family man, your nephew or niece will be born in a few months."

Third Young Master's voice was joyful, filled with expectations for the child's birth.

This boastful attitude amused Hou Yirong. "Third Brother, can you spare a thought for a lone man like me?"

Third Young Master also chuckled and changed the subject, "I talked to grandfather on the phone yesterday. He is doing well with Second Uncle but can't let go of your lifelong matter."

The topic suddenly shifted to him, and Hou Yirong rolled his eyes indelicately.

His grandfather was currently abroad, staying with his father. It was easy to imagine what those two old men were discussing every day.

The eldest brother was already married, and the third brother's child was about to be born. Only he remained a lonely man.

It was normal for grandfather and father to worry about his marriage.

Hou Yirong said indifferently, "As long as I find someone I like, who comes from a good family and has a clean background, I don't have any other requirements."

Third Young Master didn't seem to believe him much, "Really?"

Hou Yirong replied, "That's definitely the truth."

Third Young Master said in a meaningful tone, "Grandfather seems to have taken a liking to Miss Fu Si."

Hou Yirong paused, "The Fu family from the south?"

"Yes," Hou Yunjiao confirmed.

Hou Yirong looked out the window at the darkening sky and let out a light laugh, "The Fu family will arrive in the capital soon."

Hou Yunjiao said seriously, "You can meet her first before making a decision. Grandfather just wants someone who genuinely cares for you by your side."

Hou Yirong responded casually, "Alright, when the Fu family arrives, I'll personally meet Miss Fu Si."

To think that a woman from the Fu family caught his grandfather's eye. She shouldn't be underestimated.

Fu Si?

He wondered how she would compare to the famous ladies in the capital like Su Jingshu and Xiao Wenrou, who had both kind and sinister aspects.

They were all from prestigious families, so he presumed she wouldn't be a weak woman.

He was somewhat looking forward to facing her.

Hou Yunjiao knew Hou Yirong too well.

As soon as he heard this, he knew what his second brother was planning.

He warned in a low voice, "Second Brother, control yourself. Don't scare the girl. Miss Fu Si is different from the famous ladies in the capital; she was raised traditionally in the Fu family."

"Do you think I'm going to eat her?" Hou Yirong sneered.

Hou Yunjiao chuckled softly.

He couldn't hold back a cough, and he coughed a few times.

Hou Yirong grew anxious when he heard him cough. He frowned and advised, "Alright, you should rest early. Don't worry about my matters."

"Okay."

After hanging up the phone, Hou Yirong stood in place.

He looked at the ended call on the screen, and his handsome face revealed a heavy expression.

After a few minutes, he turned around slowly, and his emotions were already calm and collected.

Hou Yirong once again approached Su JingShu.

His eyebrows were filled with sarcasm as he looked down at her condescendingly, "Su Jingshu, did you hear what my third brother just said?"

Su Jingshu's face turned pale, and she shook her head blankly.

"It's impossible. It couldn't have been Third Young Master. His health is so weak, how could he have jumped into the water to save someone?"

The conversation between the Hou brothers was clearly heard by her.

To her, it was like a bombshell, leaving her completely shattered.

Hou Yirong took a step forward, grabbing Su Jingshu's hair forcefully and lifting her up to eye level.

"Yes, my third brother's health is not good, but he still jumped into the water to save you during that coming-of-age ceremony, and as a result, he caught a cold and had to go abroad for treatment.

He hurriedly left the country and only came back after a long time. Don't tell me you've forgotten about it all these years?"

Hou Yirong was rough, treating her like a criminal.

His face was terrifyingly dark, and he exuded a suffocating pressure.

His voice carried a chilling tone that sent shivers down one's spine, "Over the past ten years, you've been so devoted to Nangong Chang, is it because of his life-saving favor back then?"

"No, it's impossible! This can't be true!"

Su Jingshu shook her head, denying vehemently, refusing to accept this reality.

"Whether it's true or not, you know in your heart!" Hou Yirong's elegant and handsome face was full of mockery.

He signaled to his men on both sides, and they stepped forward to pull Su Jingshu's hands away from her ears.

Hou Yirong spoke in the cruelest, most ruthless tone, revealing the truth from ten years ago, "During my third brother's coming-of-age ceremony, after he gave a speech, he caught a cold from jumping into the water to save you. He was sent abroad immediately to recover. When our family's secret guards found something amiss, they brought him upstairs to change clothes.

How Nangong Chang managed to appear at that time, I'm not sure, but all these years, you've been as foolish as ever!"

"I don't believe it! You're lying to me! You just want to stop me from taking An Chang away!"

Su Jingshu covered her ears, refusing to listen to Hou Yirong as he tore open the truth from ten years ago.

Hou Yirong motioned to his men, and they handed him a tablet from their arms.

"Su Jingshu, I heard you've given birth to a child for Nangong Chang."

He said with absolute certainty.

Su Jingshu turned pale upon hearing this, "No, I haven't!"

She didn't know whether she was trying to deny the truth or protect her child.

*** I will make up the lacking 2 chapters tomorrow 😪 

Chapter 576: Do You Take Me for a Good Person?

At the bottom of the residential area.

Lin Hao's body had already recovered quite a bit, and his complexion had become healthier.

Sitting in the driver's seat, he turned to look at Qin Ruan in the back seat.

"Where should we go now?"

Qin Ruan's voice sounded a bit weary, "What time is it?"

Lin Hao glanced at the time, "It's half-past nine."

"Let's go home."

Qin Ruan was afraid that if she didn't return soon, it would disturb Third Young Master, who was busy with his affairs.

Following the orders, Lin Hao started the car and left the residential area.

...

Hou family

Inside the small building where Huo Yirong lived.

In the study on the second floor.

Hou Yirong stood in front of a spacious balcony with his phone to his ear.

His deep eyes were filled with coldness, and his handsome face was covered with a layer of frost.

Looking at the dim yellow street lights below, he said heavily into the phone, "Third brother, Nangong Yunlong is dead."

"How did he die?"

The weak voice of Hou Yunjiao came through the phone's speaker and into Hou Yirong's ears.

Under the indoor lighting, his pale fingertips, which had an abnormal color, touched the glass of the French window in front of him.

His finger slid gently downward.

The movement was slow and seemed indifferent.

Hou Yirong's voice was cold, "He committed suicide."

On the other end, Hou Yunjiao fell silent for a moment and then said coldly, "Given Nangong Yunlong's personality, he wouldn't do such a thing."

Nangong Yunlong had great ambitions, and even if he faced a desperate situation, with the remaining forces and the years of plotting, he would never commit suicide.

Hou Yirong's eyes narrowed, and his expression turned even colder, "Based on the scene, no traces of murder were found."

Hou Yunjiao asked, "Did Lingxu go to investigate?"

"He did, but he didn't find any signs of unnatural beings at the scene."

There was a suppressed cough on the other end, transmitted through the phone's speaker into Huo Yirong's ears.

He asked with concern, "Third brother, is your health better now?"

"It's much better these days." Hou Yunjiao's voice was composed, and he asked, "Brother, how do you see Nangong Yunlong's death?"

Hou Yirong let out a sigh and spoke with a sneer, "I also don't believe Nangong Yunlong committed suicide. Lingxu couldn't find anything suspicious. I want to ask younger sister and brother to take a look."

Hou Yunjiao replied with certainty, "Ruan Ruan isn't at home." His tone was very assured.

Hou Yirong raised an eyebrow, "How do you know?"

Hou Yunjiao dodged the question, "If you want Ruan Ruan to go to the scene, you can talk to her. Her belly is almost five months pregnant now, so be gentle with her."

Hou Yirong turned around, taking in the scene in the study.

It turned out that he was not alone in the room.

Surrounding him were the imposing and menacing Hou family guards.

In the center of the study, a delicate woman knelt on the floor.

She lowered her head, making it difficult to see her true face.

Hou Yirong's voice was hoarse as he said to Lord Yun Jiao on the phone, "I know, that's why I'm informing you first."

It wasn't clear what Hou Yunjiao said, but Hou Yirong responded.

Then he continued, "Third brother, something has happened to Nangong Chang too. He won't live for many more days."

Lord San asked something on the other end, and Huo Yirong replied, "After learning of his father's death, Nangong Chang suffered a great shock and developed locked-in syndrome."

After a moment of silence, Hou Yirong continued, "This condition is quite troublesome. The doctor said it was caused by acute cerebral hemorrhage, and the treatment is difficult. The mortality rate is also high. It belongs to a clinically high-risk syndrome."

"Right now, Nangong Chang is conscious, he can understand what others are saying, and he can answer questions by moving his eyes or eyelids."

"He can feel pain and hear sounds normally. In short, he's like a living dead; now he can be said to be worse off than dead."

With each sentence about Nangong Chang, the woman kneeling on the ground became more and more agitated.

As Hou Yirong finished speaking, he switched the phone to speaker mode.

"Whether Nangong Yunlong or Nangong Chang lives or dies, it doesn't have much impact on us. Their current situation will undoubtedly affect the outside world's criticism of the Hou family. Find a way to keep Nangong Chang alive a few more days and investigate Nangong Yunlong's cause of death."

Hou Yunjiao's voice, low and magnetic, resonated clearly in the study.

He spoke in a detached tone, but his words were as sharp as ice.

Upon hearing Hou Yunjiao's merciless words, the woman on the ground trembled slightly.

Hou Yirong noticed her subtle change.

His elegant face showed a mocking smile, but his voice still carried a gentle tone he used when speaking to relatives, "Third brother, it seems you understand this pair of wild mandarin ducks very well."

Hou Yunjiao's voice remained calm, "Don't make things difficult for her."

Hou Yirong patted the stunned face of Su Jingshu, showing no mercy, "I didn't say I would do anything to her."

Hou Yunjiao still didn't fully understand him.

He knew that the conversation just now must have been heard by Su Jingshu.

Hou Yunjiao's voice was somber, "Second brother, there's no need to bring up things from so many years ago."

Chapter 650: Reunion with Lord Hou for the Second Time

Oh no, the official realized that he had forgotten to inform Lady Hou and her daughter that the male members of the Shu family had also arrived in Zhengdao Village and were dealing with matters at home.

The official felt a slight annoyance, but quickly dismissed it. After all, Lady Hou would see them once she returned home. It was fortunate that the Shu family had arrived in time, allowing this couple and their daughter to have a chance to talk. Who knew when they would meet again in the future?

However, the cheerful mood of Hou shi and her daughter disappeared instantly when they saw their familiar belongings scattered in the open courtyard.

Frowning, Hou shi held her daughter's hand and walked inside, looking towards their house.

The lock on the door had been broken, and they could hear familiar voices from inside.

Hou shi stood at the doorway, and her expression suddenly changed.

The male members of the Shu family... had arrived?

As she was thinking, the door of the house was suddenly pulled open from the inside, revealing the thin face of Shu Quan.

When Shu Quan saw Hou shi, he also paused for a moment, followed by a sneer. "Oh, isn't this Aunt Hou, who used to enjoy a comfortable life, not caring about anything but her own pleasure? Oh, and Little Sixth Sister, your complexion looks good."

He spoke maliciously and then turned his head to call for his father. "Father, Aunt Hou and Little Sister have returned, but it seems they are not happy to see us here."

Master Hou quickly came out, and Shu Quan opened the door wider.

Hou shi saw the mess inside the house, with her cloth bags, once filled with food, now empty and deflated. There was nothing left.

The other members of the Shu family were also inside, and Fifth Young Master Shu was lying on the bed, dirty and disheveled, even messing up her bedding.

The anger in Hou Shi's heart was almost uncontrollable, but it was at this moment that Second master walked out and slapped her across the face. "Lady Hou, do you still know your place?"

"Father!!" Sixth miss yelled and stepped in front of Hou shi.

Second master gaze fell on her, and he sneered, "You still know that I'm your father? Then do you know who your stepmother is, and who your sister is? At such a young age, you don't learn well. You monopolize a room with your mother, while your stepmother and other sisters are crammed into one room to sleep. Do you still have any regard for this family? Are you still a daughter of the Shu family?"

Second master pointed his finger at her, "And you dare to associate with that shameless adopted daughter. Can't you even distinguish who your family is?"

Sixth Miss trembled with anger. "Sister Yu saved my life, while the others want to kill me. Who are my family?"

Second master was so infuriated by her response that he raised his hand to strike her.

This time, Hou shi acted quickly and pulled her daughter back two steps, narrowly avoiding the attack. Second master became even angrier. "You dare to hide? After committing mistakes, you don't know how to repent. You argue back and hide. Tell me, can I not teach you a lesson anymore?"

Shu Quan, standing by, made sarcastic remarks. "Father, Lady Hou and Little Sixth Sister have grown up now. They don't even bother to look at us."

Hou shi glanced at him and then looked at second master with a cold expression. "If you don't want to see us, my lord, we will leave."

Second master had never seen Lady Hou so indifferent, which made him even more embarrassed and angry.

"Leave? Where will you go? Oh, I forgot, you can go to the Lu family. Fine, go ahead and see if you can stay in their house forever and never come back. Get lost!"

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