Chapter 124: Perhaps Someone Has a Sugar Daddy

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  Chapter 59: Staying with You Tonight

"The old master has already talked to Mr. Li in advance, and Mr. Li has agreed!" the steward added.

Ou Yan: ??

Her dad agreed?!

Impossible!!

"This is a voice message from your dad." Grandpa Si opened WeChat and played it for her.

"Old man, you're kidding. Yan Yan is with you, why would I be worried? Then I won't keep her tonight..."

Anyway, sooner or later, they are all members of the Si family, and Grandpa Si has also promised not to let her and Si Yechen share a room, just liking this daughter-in-law and wanting her to stay at Xiyuan for one night.

With dozens of servants in Xiyuan, it's impossible for anything to happen.

With the conversation coming to this, Li Yuanfu had no choice but to agree, turning a blind eye to the situation.

Ou Yan: ...

She didn't expect her own dad to agree so readily, feeling a bit speechless.

"Ah Chen, take Yan Yan to the room on the third floor south side, it's already been cleaned." After Grandpa Si finished, he turned to the steward again and instructed, "Get Yan Yan a lamp and ask when the power will be back, it's been so long!"

"Yes." steward Wen immediately brought a bamboo-handled Zen lamp to Ou Yan.

"I'll take it." Si Yechen reached out to take it, holding Ou Yan's hand with the other and leading her to the third floor.

Although it was pitch black along the way, the warm glow emitted by the bamboo lamp and the warmth in their hands made Ou Yan feel secure and reassured.

"Are you afraid of the dark?" Si Yechen turned back to ask the girl behind him.

Before Ou Yan could answer, Si Yechen pulled her closer by the shoulder. "If you are, stay closer."

Ou Yan: ...

She's not afraid of anything supernatural, so what's a little darkness?

How many dark experiences has she had before?

Arriving at the room on the south side, Ou Yan realized that the lamp was somewhat redundant.

Because the room was too big, the dim light didn't serve much purpose, and it was still overall pitch black.

In the hazy light, Si Yechen looked at the girl in front of him, her sparkling eyes shining like stars in the night sky, emitting a charming light.

The casual aura she exuded was like that of a bewitching queen.

"I'll stay here with you, and I'll leave when the power comes back." He couldn't help but touch her face.

Only then did he realize how soft her face was, so tender and smooth, but a bit small, his hand felt ample.

Ou Yan turned her face away, saying softly, "Go attend to your business."

"I have nothing to do."

"Then go accompany Grandpa."

"Grandpa's been busy all day and wants to sleep."

"..." Ou Yan looked at the clingy guy in front of her, feeling somewhat helpless. "Then go back to your own room."

"I want to stay here with you." Si Yechen could feel his breath becoming heavier gradually, the girl's elegant fragrance making him unable to resist getting closer, and closer...

Just then, his phone rang, and after answering it, he said to the girl in his arms, "There's a problem with the power supply, and it won't be back tonight."

Ou Yan: ...

"I'll go see if there are any clean clothes." If he didn't leave now, he feared he couldn't control himself.

Entering the bedroom's walk-in closet, Si Yechen found that there was nothing inside.

"Wait for me, I'll bring you some clothes." He left for a moment and quickly returned, "These were prepared in advance by Grandpa, I don't know if there's anything suitable."

Ou Yan: ...

The old man sure is thoughtful, did he anticipate that she would stay overnight?

Ou Yan picked up the clothes and looked at them in the dim light. There wasn't a single normal piece.

Si Yechen obviously noticed this too, looking at the girl with a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"I'll go get my clothes."

Si Yechen went out again, and after a while, he came back with his own shirt, pajamas... for her to choose from.

The pajamas were too big and too long. Ouyan took one of his shirts and chose a relatively conservative set of underwear from the pile of backless clothes, holding the bamboo lamp, intending to go into the bathroom.

Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blew in from somewhere, and the bedroom door slammed shut.

Si Yechen tried to open it again, but it wouldn't budge.

"You're too cunning, Master, to think of creating artificial wind!" steward Wen held back his laughter, looking at the closed door, "Young Master will definitely call me for the key later. Look, what I said came true."

Si Yechen's call came in.

steward Wen kept a straight face, picked up the phone, and explained seriously, "Young Master, that room was prepared temporarily for Madam, and there's no spare key. Can you bear to sleep in there for one night?"

"That's a bit much." Si Yechen's voice sounded cold, evidently, he already knew what was going on.

"What, what do you mean? I can't understand you, Young Master. The signal is bad here. Hello? Young Master, hello??" steward Wen hurriedly hung up the phone and turned it off.

Si Yechen looked at the girl in front of him, his voice particularly seductive in the darkness, "Tonight, I'm staying with you."

Ou Yan: ...

The old man really went all out with this.

"Whatever." Ou Yan didn't care. At this point, Grandpa Si wouldn't hand over the key.

This door isn't a smart lock, so it can't be bypassed, unless the lock is pried open with tools, but since Grandpa thought of this trick, he wouldn't leave any tools in the room.

Ou Yan took the lamp into the bathroom, and soon, the frosted glass door reflected her alluring figure.

This bathroom door had obviously been changed, it was even more transparent than before.

Si Yechen didn't expect Grandpa to go to such lengths to deepen their relationship.

The shadow on the glass was elusive, Si Yechen's breathing gradually became heavier, he could feel his own changes, subconsciously avoiding eye contact, wanting to look at the scenery outside the window.

But the dripping sound of water, and the bathing fragrance permeating his senses, brought his gaze back.

Her shadow was graceful and delicate, even through the bathroom door, he could imagine her enchanting appearance.

Si Yechen stood up and went to the window, trying to let the breeze blow away the heat.

After Ou Yan finished her bath and came out, she saw his tall figure standing by the window and casually said, "I'm done."

Si Yechen turned around, and the heat that had just been blown away surged back.

The steam wafted out from the bathroom, like ethereal white mist spreading out behind her.

Ou Yan was wearing his white shirt, because of the bath, her fair face looked even more delicate, her eyes were charming and provocative when she glanced sideways, and the beautiful collarbones exposed from the neckline were like a butterfly about to take flight.

And those white, slender legs made his throat tighten, his breath becoming rapid.

"I'm going to wash." Si Yechen picked up the pajamas she had left behind and stepped into the bathroom, afraid that if he delayed a few steps, emotions would engulf his reason.

Her enticing scent lingered in the air, it seemed that he would have to take a cold shower tonight.

 Chapter 123: How Much Money Did He Transfer In?

For someone with social anxiety, facing the cashier alone was already challenging. And now, the password for the card was incorrect. She had entered Bai Junjun's birthday, but it showed as incorrect.

The cashier looked at her and said, "Hello, if you enter it wrong again, the card will be locked. Do you want to think carefully or use another card?"

Bai Junwen stood there stiffly. She didn't have enough money to pay for the table's expenses.

Facing the cashier's gaze, she felt uneasy, not knowing how to resolve the current situation.

Would she be treated as someone trying to dine and dash, then taken to the police station?

"Miss, how would you like to settle the payment?"

The cashier reminded her again, also sensing that something was not right with the delayed payment.

Seeing her in high school uniform, she thought, could she not afford the bill?

Although he was a high school student, with such a large bill, it would be a problem if she couldn't pay.

The situation was quite tense. Jiang Chenchen, having finished eating, saw that Bai Junwen hadn't come over and walked to the cashier. She asked, "What's wrong?"

The cashier hurriedly said, "Miss, your friend's card isn't working. Can you use your card instead?"

She handed over the bill.

Jiang Chenchen looked at it, counted the numbers, and then paused.

So expensive.

She thought it was delicious just a moment ago, but now it seemed overpriced.

But since they had already consumed it, they had to pay.

So, she took out her wallet. There was a card that Sheng Mingsi gave her for living expenses and miscellaneous fees. She didn't know if it would cover the bill for today.

She hesitated but had to give it a try.

Entering the password, the receipt from the card machine finally printed out. Success!

At least it proved that there was enough money to cover such a large expense.

The cashier breathed a sigh of relief. She was afraid that they were trying to dine and dash, but fortunately, they weren't.

At the same time, she marveled at how high school students nowadays could spend so much!

Jiang Chenchen was a bit puzzled. How much money did Sheng Mingsi transfer into this card?

Regardless, she couldn't use the money he gave for such expenses. She had to cover this gap herself.

Time for studying was already tight. If she wanted to fill this gap, she would have to earn money quickly.

She hadn't figured out what method to use yet.

On the other hand, Bai Junwen didn't expect that Jiang Chenchen would solve the predicament once again. It seemed that any problem could be easily resolved in front of her.

It made her feel useless.

As they left the restaurant, Bai Junwen kept her head down and didn't speak. But soon, she gathered courage and said, "Jiang Chenchen, since I invited you to eat, I'll find a way to repay you for this money."

"No hurry," Jiang Chenchen said. "But why couldn't your sister's card be used?"

Bai Junwen gripped her clothes. "She did it on purpose, intentionally ordering expensive dishes and making me pay the bill, all just to make me look bad!"

She should have known that her annoying sister wouldn't change her ways suddenly!

Angry but helpless, she now had that card in her pocket.

Seeing this, Jiang Chenchen asked, "Do you want to retaliate?"

"Retaliate?" Bai Junwen shook her head. Although she was furious, she didn't dare to retaliate. She couldn't argue with anyone.

"Jiang Chenchen, please don't take the so-called birthday banquet to heart. Don't even bother asking people or inviting a big star like Lu Su. It's impossible. Please don't get involved in this."

She had already caused Jiang Chenchen enough trouble; there was no need to bother her further.

The so-called birthday would only become a comparison and joke in the eyes of the people who attended, comparing her seventeen-year-old sister with her eighteen-year-old self.

Jiang Chenchen didn't know about her inner conflict and said, "Inviting Lu Su is not that difficult. Since you all like him, on your 18th birthday, let him sing a happy birthday song for you. How about that?"

Bai Junwen couldn't believe it. Why did Jiang Chenchen consider such a difficult thing as a trivial matter?

Was she a goddess?

The noon sun was intense, and there seemed to be a mysterious glow around the person next to her.

Bai Junwen did want to celebrate her eighteenth birthday. It's just that no one cared, and there was nothing to celebrate.

But what she just said, was it true? In front of a star they all admired, enjoying such treatment and blessings, could she really have it all?

Thinking about it, she found herself somewhat looking forward to it, but reality made her timid.

Did she deserve all of this?

Jiang Chenchen noticed that she seemed to like it, though not obvious, Jiang Chenchen could see it.

Although there was some timidity, Jiang Chenchen ignored it. "After school this afternoon, I'll give Lu Su a call and ask. Just wait."

Bai Junwen saw Bai Junjun and those classmates in front of her stop.

The dreams shattered instantly in the face of reality.

And Bai Junjun was also very disappointed. She didn't see the two of them being dragged out or sent to the police station in embarrassment, which was incredible.

Where did she get the money from?

Did Grandma secretly give her money?

"How did you come out?" Bai Junjun asked directly, squinting her eyes. "You didn't steal money from home, did you?"

Bai Junwen couldn't take it anymore, suppressing her voice, she said, "What are you talking about?"

Bai Junjun rarely saw her like this, but she was even more angry. "It's not... I just can't remember my card password. Why are you yelling at me?!"

Those who didn't know her were easily deceived by her face, and even her classmates were confused. Wasn't that card intentional?

"Bai Junwen! Do you have such a sister? If I didn't want to deal with you, would I have come over? I've already gone back to school!" Bai Junjun complained, crying like a pear blossom with rain, looking very pitiful.

That's probably why her parents liked her so much.

Bai Junwen didn't want to watch her act and couldn't argue with her. She just wanted to leave and avoid all of this.

However, Jiang Chenchen said, "That's good."

What's good?!

Others looked at her.

She took out a long bill from her pocket and handed it to Bai Junjun. "Transfer the money to me."

Bai Junjun was stunned: ?

This woman is quite good at seizing opportunities, isn't she?!

And the bill had already been stuffed into her hands.

Bai Junwen also took the opportunity to be tough, handing over that card. "Jiang Chenchen paid for the bill. Your card's password is wrong, so transfer the money to her now."

"Bai Junwen, what are you doing?"

Bai Junjun, with a green face, had already spoken those words. Now that she had cried and couldn't argue back, she had to comply.

For such an expensive meal, she still had to foot the bill in the end. The thought of it made her so angry that she could spit blood.

Bai Junjun reluctantly used her phone to transfer money to Jiang Chenchen.

She looked at the record on the phone screen, clenched her phone in anger, and lowered her voice, "Don't forget that you said you would invite Lu Su!"

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 116: The Emergence of the Big Shot's Reverse Scale

Distinguishing the costs of painting the interior walls separately is mentioned below.

The purchase date, buyer's name, and details of the materials bought are all meticulously recorded.

Initially unaware, Yu Fugui and Wu Xiuyun learned that the construction team led by Xiao Cheng not only built houses but also painted the interior walls. Therefore, the cost of painting the interior walls is included below.

The labor cost for painting the interior walls is also calculated separately.

The content is simple and clear, organized, making it easy for anyone literate to understand.

"To build a three-story brick house requires over eighty thousand. Including the cost of painting the interior walls, door and window installation, and banquet expenses, it would easily be over a hundred thousand. Every material is listed so clearly..."

"The reinforcement bars were indeed bought from my family. I sold them to Xiao Cheng at the price of 1.5 yuan per kilogram, and the quantity and date are correct. I told you, Xiao Cheng doesn't take kickbacks; those rumors are baseless!"

Several material suppliers who sold materials to Xiao Cheng spoke up upon seeing identical prices, refuting the rumors.

"The iron nails were sold to Xiaocheng by me. The price and quantity are exactly the same as written on the red paper. If anyone doubts it, they can come to my shop and ask."

"The cement was bought from my shop, matching the details above. If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask me."

"What else is unclear? Yu Fugui has posted the detailed list. Xiao Cheng's quotation and labor costs are all the same. Who was spreading baseless rumors just now? Let me think, which gossipmonger started this..."

After the homeowner's certified detailed list was revealed, the truth emerged, shattering all the gossip and rumors.

Those who hesitated to speak up for Xiao Cheng and Bai Lu moments ago now confidently expressed their opinions.

Sharp glances were directed at those responsible for spreading rumors.

"What are you looking at? I didn't spread the rumors. I just heard it from the next table!"

"Regardless of who spread it, enjoy the joyful time before Xiao Cheng arrives. Once he's here and finds out who was causing trouble behind his back, you'll regret it."

Chen Chunli, exposed in her retaliatory actions, realized the severe consequences. Not only did her tablemates stop talking to her, but the surrounding tables also began gossiping about her jealousy and pettiness.

Many knew that the rumors originated from her table, and discussions about her narrow-mindedness and inability to see others succeed were rampant.

With evidence before them, Chen Chunli had no rebuttal. Unconcerned, she thought it wasn't a big deal, confident that being pregnant would shield her from any consequences.

On the other side, Bai Lu resumed discussing new sales channels and other trivial topics, completely disregarding the evidence on the big red paper. It was as if nothing had happened.

Compliments were given for the meticulous and well-written details, praising the person's intelligence.

In the world, all are for profit; in the world, all are for gain. Merchants engage in transactions solely for profit.

A bad reputation for business partners jeopardizes normal product sales. Fair distribution and avoiding harm are instinctive. Protecting one's maximum interests is the true nature of a merchant. Talks of friendship are just empty words.

For the first meeting, not family or close friends, nor sworn life-and-death companions, there's little genuine friendship. Cooperation in business is solely for making money, as no one wants to be at a disadvantage.

If someone expresses trust but harbors doubts about cooperation, it's essential to consider whether they're being manipulated.

Bai Lu understood the rules of the business world; hence, she didn't dwell on the matter. With a standard smile, she continued negotiating cooperation.

Xiao Wei obediently sat beside her, waiting for the meal.

Not engaging in adult discussions, he felt a small excitement, a tiny admiration for his sister.

Indeed, Bai Lu is as clever as Big Brother!

Without saying much, she sent him with a big red paper to Yu Fugui, controlling the entire situation.

Bai Lu wasn't predicting the future but being prepared for unexpected circumstances. Plans lag behind changes, and changes lag behind surprises; thus, the situation must always be under control.

This way, one can stand firm and undefeated at all times.

When Xiao Cheng returned, the banquet had just begun. Table 16 had reserved a seat for him.

Throughout his journey, Xiao Cheng heard various rumors and saw the big red paper in the living room.

Covered in dense writing, each stroke conveyed Bai Lu's defense and the injustices she suffered.

Xiao Cheng coldly scanned Wang Hao, giving a final warning, "Manage your people well."

Wang Hao's heart sank, a sense of dread seizing him. Quickly bowing, he admitted, "I understand."

Knowing each other for many years, facing knives and enduring gunfire together, sharing joys and sorrows throughout the years, Xiao Cheng had never given him such a stern warning, let alone a final ultimatum.

Xiao Cheng, inherently cold and emotionless, reserved his harsh words only for outsiders. Now, for the first time, he withdrew even his tolerance, revealing an unprecedented severity.

A table of people fell into silence.

The dishes were served—fragrant and steaming—yet failed to dispel the chilling atmosphere.

Amidst the banquet, after moments of silence came laughter and cheers. Following the silent estrangement was enthusiastic toasting. Unpleasant matters were left unsaid, allowing the host and guests to enjoy the festivities.

When Wu Xiuyun returned with her natal family, she learned about the detailed list and felt regret, self-blame, and guilt.

Carrying the detailed list with her seemed essential today, given the numerous guests and potential chaos. Little did she expect it to be unnecessary, almost causing trouble for Bai Lu and Xiao Cheng.

The banquet continued, and Wu Xiuyun packed many untouched delicacies for Bai Lu from the kitchen.

Despite Bai Lu's refusal, Xiao Wei's small arms were laden with packages, and red envelopes were stuffed into them.

In such a joyous moment, it wasn't wise to reject goodwill frequently. Bai Lu expressed gratitude and blessings to the Wu family.

With everyone's gaze bidding them farewell, Bai Lu, Xiao Cheng, and Xiao Wei returned home.

Bai Lu went to her room to organize the accounts for the candied chestnuts.

Xiao Cheng and Xiao Wei went to the kitchen, transferring each dish to separate plates and covering them with woven bamboo lids.

Wanting to give the red envelopes from Wu Xiuyun to Bai Lu, Xiao Wei asked Xiao Cheng if he could find her. However, Xiao Cheng instructed him to keep them himself.

The little guy, brimming with excitement, looked forward to the warmth from his big brother.

However, a simple statement shattered his expectations: "Don't disturb her."

Xiao Wei: "..."

Did he misunderstand something?

A bright moon illuminated the sky, with stars scattered everywhere.

Bai Lu sat on the bed reading a book. Hearing footsteps, she looked up to see the man entering the room while drying his hair.

Curious, she asked, "Did something happen with the logging?"

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 115: Detailed List of Materials

Allowing rumors and slander to continue would jeopardize Bai Lu's new sales channels. Xiao Cheng's construction team would also be perceived as unreasonably priced, with workers being careless in their workmanship.

Cutting corners, using inferior materials, and denying any legitimacy would lead to a situation where nobody would hire them for construction projects.

At this moment, skeptical and accusing glances from the surrounding guests all focused on Bai Lu, blaming her for the alleged wrongdoing.

However, Bai Lu remained composed, showing no signs of guilt or panic. She leaned down and whispered something to a young boy seated nearby.

The boy nodded and swiftly ran off.

Children were different. Mischievous and playful, they could roam freely without attracting much attention. Bai Lu, now the center of attention, could easily leave to get some food without being thought of as avoiding the situation.

Meanwhile, Yu Fugui was desperately searching through the new house for the detailed list of materials. He was sweating from the stress of not being able to find it.

"Uncle Fu."

A soft voice suddenly sounded from behind him.

Yufu Gui turned around and was handed a piece of red paper: "My sister-in-law gave it to you."

It was Xiao Wei, the young boy who had completed the task.

Yu Fugui opened the red paper and, to his immense relief, found a detailed list of materials. This meant he didn't have to worry about being scolded by Xiao Cheng or losing Bai Lu's cooperation.

The rumors continued to spread rapidly, with more and more people whispering and gossiping in the living room, front yard, and various rooms.

The shop owners who had sold construction materials to Xiao Cheng and were present at the feast didn't know the exact prices Xiao Cheng paid for the materials. Therefore, none of them spoke up to clarify.

On the front yard, Luo Shiliu, Xiao Dashuang, and others quickly caught wind of the situation. Many people at their table overheard the rumors circulating.

Everyone's expressions turned sour, and their piercing gazes were all directed at Wang Hao.

In the new town, besides Chen Chunli, who dared to be so brazen due to being Xiao Cheng's sister-in-law and pregnant, there was no one who would dare to disrespect the elder brother and sister-in-law. However, Chen Chunli had no such qualms and could freely fabricate stories, spreading baseless rumors.

Who else would dare to court death and scheme against Xiao Cheng and Bai Lu, destroying their business prospects?

Wang Hao felt embarrassed, his face flushing as if he had been slapped. He spoke reluctantly, "Today, so many people came for the feast. It might not necessarily be the gossip spread by Chunli."

Luo Shiliu forcefully cracked open a peanut and tossed it into his mouth, chewing with a smile that seemed both mocking and not: "It's better not be."

Xiao Dashuang got straight to the point: "Can you control Chunli? If the rumors are from her, it's causing trouble for everyone. It's not just gossip; it might cost everyone their jobs."

Others at the table had relatively short interactions with Xiao Cheng and usually didn't speak much. But today, they couldn't help but voice their opinions.

"You go home and handle your family matters. Outside, be more cautious. Big brother and sister-in-law might not say anything, but it doesn't mean they don't care. Big brother and sister-in-law tolerate it because you're family. But if your wife continues to be so unrestrained, disrupting people's livelihoods, their patience has limits."

Li Si also chimed in, "This is indeed done in an unscrupulous manner. We, a group of men, don't understand the gossip and tricks of women. You need to figure it out for yourself."

This table, besides Luo Shiliu and Xiao Dashuang, included several construction workers who were somewhat acquainted with Xiao Cheng. Among them was Liu Xiaomei's husband, Afu, and Wang Youcai. They all harbored some grievances and, while considering Xiao Cheng, couldn't help expressing their resentment.

Wang Hao felt utterly humiliated.

These were brothers who had gone through many ups and downs together. Usually, minor issues were overlooked. However, today's incident was too much, causing collective anger. Even though there was collective anger, it only resulted in some words of caution, not an immediate confrontation or departure.

In fact, Wang Hao understood that it was all because of Chen Chunli.

Chen Chunli had always been like this. In the past, she was like this with outsiders; now, she was like this with their own people.

Wang Hao had complained about Chen Chunli before, but whenever he brought it up, she would make a scene, hitting and scolding him with her big belly.

He was exhausted.

Rumors continued to escalate, and the gazes from those around Bai Lu gradually turned unfriendly.

The people at the same table even stopped discussing family matters.

At Chen Chunli's table, except for Chen Chunli, who looked radiant and joyful, the others had gloomy faces.

Before the first dish was served, Yu Fugui, steady and cautious, finally arrived at the high table in the hall. In his hands, he held a large red paper filled with writing, which shimmered brightly in front of the guests.

He wore a friendly and business-like smile, addressing the guests in a loud voice, "Many friends asked me today about the cost of building a three-story red brick house in the town, wondering if the construction materials are expensive."

"I searched for it in my room for a long time, and I finally found this detailed list of materials. Not only does it include the quantity and prices of various materials such as steel bars, cement, red bricks, but it also specifies which store and which boss I bought each item from. Labor costs are also detailed."

"For those friends interested in building new houses, you can come and take a look for reference. These detailed lists of materials are the true and accurate expense receipts for our house. There is no deception. Some of the store owners who sold materials for our new house are also present. You can come and take a look to see if the quantities and prices match. A glance will reveal everything."

As soon as these words were spoken, the whole room buzzed with activity.

Those who were or intended to build new houses stood up from their seats and went to the high table to examine the detailed list.

Where there's one, there's two.

The high table was quickly surrounded by various guests—neighbors, friends, and business partners—all wanting to take a look at the detailed list.

Written in a neat and beautiful calligraphy on the large red paper, the details of the materials were laid out in a clear and organized manner, visible to everyone.

A hundred square meters, three-story red brick house detailed list.

Coarse sand: 5 yuan per cubic meter, 35 cubic meters, a total of 175 yuan, buyer: Xiao Cheng, seller: Guizhou Shipping Boss—Jiang Zhengang, date: March 28, 1997.

Red bricks: 8 cents each, 20,000 bricks for one floor, 60,000 bricks for three floors, a total of 4,800 yuan...

Special stones for digging foundations: 15 yuan per cubic meter, 10 cubic meters, a total

of 150 yuan...

Cement: 10 yuan per bag, 650 bags, a total of 6,500 yuan...

Steel bars: 1.5 yuan per pound, 8,000 pounds, a total of 12,000 yuan...

Raw limestone: 8 yuan per unit, 100 pounds per unit, 55 units, 5,500 pounds, 44,000 yuan...

Iron nails: 1.6 yuan per pound, 50 pounds, a total of 80 yuan...

Special supporting wood for pouring concrete and roofing: 3 yuan per piece, 150 pieces, a total of 450 yuan...

Special supporting formwork for pouring concrete and roofing: 8 yuan per cubic meter, 150 cubic meters, a total of 1,200 yuan...

Cost of using an excavator to demolish the old house and fill the foundation with stones: 130 yuan per hour, 3 hours, a total of 390 yuan...

Construction labor costs, calculated based on the area of the building: 50 yuan per square meter, 100 square meters of house area, total area of three floors is 300 square meters, a total of 15,000 yuan...

Total: 84,745 yuan.

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 124: The Matter of the Initial Division

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 123 Getting Things Done

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Chapter 8: Wild Chicken Eggs

Mo Yan walked along the mountain path until she reached a valley. The mountains on both sides were not very high, with one side covered in trees and bushes while the other side appeared somewhat barren.

After some thought, she decided to explore the dense forested mountain. Since the vegetation was lush here, there should be a good water source. Although the plants were yellowed due to the drought, they had not withered completely, so there might be something edible.

Mo Yan picked up a wooden stick about two meters long and as thick as her wrist. Using it as a walking stick, she made her way forward, but her weak body forced her to stop and catch her breath every few steps.

By the time she reached halfway up the mountain, a long time had passed.

Throughout the journey, she hadn't encountered a single snake, which left Mo Yan feeling frustrated. She had hoped to catch a snake to make a stew if she couldn't find anything else to eat. However, she hadn't even seen a single mouse.

After wandering around in the forest for a while, just as she was about to head to the other side of the mountain, she heard a commotion from a dense patch of grass ahead. A wild chicken suddenly burst out, flapping its wings and squawking loudly, escaping from Mo Yan's hungry gaze.

Mo Yan regretfully looked at her right hand. In the past, her space would have captured that wild chicken under her control, but unfortunately, her space had been "reset," and its level was not high enough!

Watching the wild chicken disappear, Mo Yan's heart skipped a beat. The feathers of that chicken were not very bright, indicating it was likely a female. Could it have been laying eggs just now?

With anticipation, Mo Yan approached the dense patch of grass where the wild chicken had emerged. Carefully using the wooden stick to push aside the tall grass, she soon discovered a pile of white wild chicken eggs.

Mo Yan almost burst into tears as she eagerly rushed towards the eggs. With hands like chicken claws, she counted the eggs, finding a total of thirteen!

If someone had told her in the past that she would cry over thirteen wild chicken eggs, she would have definitely rolled her eyes at them. But after going hungry for over a month, wouldn't anyone be excited to find food?

Mo Yan swallowed her saliva and carefully placed the thirteen wild chicken eggs into her space. Afraid of using the old, tattered cloth bundle to carry them, she didn't want to risk dropping these precious provisions.

Perhaps luck was on her side, as although she didn't find any more wild chicken eggs, Mo Yan unexpectedly stumbled upon a patch of raspberries. The bright red berries, like little lanterns, hung densely on the vines. She picked one, untouched by cleaning, and popped it into her mouth. Instantly, a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of fragrance filled her senses, truly a heavenly taste!

Her taste buds, long deprived of such flavors, were stimulated by this sweet and sour taste. Mo Yan couldn't help but eat a few more berries before restraining herself. While raspberries tasted great and were highly nutritious, they were acidic, so one shouldn't eat too many on an empty stomach.

Mo Yan picked a few large leaves from the trees and spent nearly half an hour gathering all the ripe raspberries. She carefully wrapped them in the large leaves and stored them in her space.

Feeling that she had been out for quite a while, Mo Yan decided to head back. She didn't want her father to worry too much.

...

At the entrance of the cave, Mo Zhen sat on a large rock in the shade, while Mo Xin wiped the sweat off his forehead and laid the collected firewood out in the sun to dry. Seeing his brother maintaining the same posture as before without moving, Mo Xin couldn't help but laugh. He poked his brother's head and said, "Don't just sit there like a dummy. Let's go gather firewood with our big sister. We'll need it when she comes back with food!"

Mo Zhen weakly turned his head to avoid his sister's finger, rubbing his stomach with his small hand. He blinked his big eyes and looked at his sister, asking hopefully, "Can big sister really find food? Zhen'er is so hungry!"

Mo Xin patted her brother's head and replied confidently, "Of course, big sister will find food. We won't go hungry." In her heart, her big sister was as capable as their father, and there was nothing they couldn't do.

Upon hearing this, Mo Zhen's eyes lit up. He quickly slid off the big rock and grabbed his sister's hand, urging, "Then let's hurry and gather firewood."

Mo Xin chuckled and held her brother's hand, walking towards a nearby grove.

As ahe approached the cave, Mo Yan took the wild chicken eggs and raspberries out of her space. She carefully stacked them in layers in the cloth bundle, ensuring that the eggs wouldn't fall out of the torn hole. Satisfied that everything was secure, she carried the bundle in her hand.

Just as she took a few steps forward, she ran into Mo Qingze, who was coming out to fetch water.

"Yan'er, did you find any food?"

Mo Qingze immediately noticed the bundle in Mo Yan's hand and nodded approvingly. Finally, the children wouldn't go hungry.

Mo Yan nodded with a smile. "I was lucky today. I found more than a dozen wild chicken eggs!"

Her daughter had actually found wild chicken eggs! Mo Qingze's eyes lit up with joy, though they were also tinged with redness.

Mo Yan pretended not to notice and continued chatting with him casually.

Meanwhile, the two younger children finished gathering firewood and were sitting at the cave entrance, eagerly waiting for their father and elder sister. When they heard their father and sister's conversation, they immediately stood up and saw the bundle in Mo Yan's hand. Excited, they bounced up and down with joy, eager to greet them.

The once quiet cave entrance now buzzed with excitement, all thanks to Mo Yan finding food.

Mo Qingze, tending to the pot of water, added more firewood while listening to his children talk. Occasionally, he answered their innocent questions with a warm smile, his eyes full of affection.

Mo Yan leaned against the cave wall, quietly observing everything. Who would have thought that such joyous laughter would come from the Mo family, who had been fleeing for over a month?

The harsh trials of disaster had not extinguished their hope for survival. Even in the face of death, the original owner of this body firmly believed that their family could reach the city of everlasting plenty!

Mo Yan wondered, if she had encountered such trials in her previous life, would she have been as optimistic and resilient as this thirteen-year-old girl?

Under Mo Qingze's insistence, the thirteen wild chicken eggs were consumed in two meals. Mo Yan couldn't help but feel emotional as she watched her younger siblings enjoy the food. She vowed to find an opportunity to enter her space later that night...

Next Chapter▶▶

Chapter 7 When It Rains, It Pours

Just when Mo Yan and the others had just saved their lives, they were caught in a heavy rainstorm. Without any nearby shelter, they had to brave the rain in hopes of finding a place to take refuge.

After nearly an hour of journeying, the bedraggled group finally found a small cave in the mountainside. Calling it a cave might be an exaggeration; it was merely a sheltered spot where a large rock protruded overhead, with the sides blocked by rocks, barely providing some protection from the rain.

Famished and enduring the rain-soaked journey, Mo Yan felt extremely uncomfortable, her body feeling weak. She sat down on the ground, panting heavily. The damp clothes clung tightly to her body, making her even more uncomfortable. However, the clothes in their bundle were soaked, and there was no way to change. Fortunately, it was summer, so she didn't feel very cold.

Watching the rainwater dripping down along the edge of the giant rock, Mo Yan couldn't help but reach out and scoop up a handful of rainwater. Ignoring whether it was clean or not, she lowered her head and took a sip. Despite a slightly earthy taste, it surprisingly carried a hint of sweetness.

After drinking a handful of water, Mo Yan felt some relief in her stomach. Unable to resist, she scooped up more rainwater and drank it all.

Mo Xin and Mo Zhen, who had been hungry for a long time, saw their big sister drinking like this and followed suit, drinking the rainwater. Mo Qingze opened his mouth to stop them, but couldn't bring himself to utter a word of dissuasion.

They had expected to have a good meal after catching a rabbit, but who would have known they would encounter those ruffians, and the pot of stewed rabbit meat they had just cooked was knocked over in the scuffle. Without eating anything the whole day, let alone the children, even he, an adult, was having trouble enduring it.

The rain continued for over an hour, showing no signs of stopping. The occasional thunder seemed to mock his helplessness. Mo Qingze looked at the curtain of rain with despair in his heart. If he had known there would be a drought this year, he should have taken his children north during last year's floods. Now they couldn't go to Yongcheng, and the capital was too far. Was Heaven really going to cut off their lifeline?

After drinking a few handfuls of rainwater, Mo Yan's stomach felt somewhat relieved. Seeing the two little ones still wanting to drink, she quickly stopped them. Although the rainwater wasn't very dirty in this time and space without air pollution, it was still raw water, and drinking too much wasn't good for the body.

Mo Xin and Mo Zhen were very sensible. Although they still wanted to drink to alleviate their hunger, they didn't dare to disobey their big sister's words.

Seeing their hungry eyes fixed on the water, Mo Yan couldn't bear it and looked away. But just then, she happened to see the despair on Mo Qingze's face. She was startled and, after some thought, finally voiced her thoughts, "Father... Father, let's go to the capital!"

The term "father" made Mo Yan's tongue twist, but since she had inherited this body, she should adapt to her new identity.

Mo Qingze was stunned for a moment, then understood his eldest daughter's meaning. His face was full of bitterness. "Yan'er, do you know how far it is from here to the capital?"

Seeing Mo Qingze like this, Mo Yan was a little stunned. In the original owner's memory, Mo Qingze had always been the object of admiration for his children. Not only literate and courteous, he was the only scholar in Mo Village, and he also knew a bit of music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. He earned money with his talents to support the family... In the eyes of his daughters, Mo Qingze was almost omnipotent.

But even such an omnipotent father was now stripped of his courage by natural disasters and man-made calamities.

It was not so much that he was worried that the family wouldn't make it to the capital, but rather that he was worried that the children wouldn't be able to bear it and would starve to death. As the head of the family, he bore all the hopes of his children. One could imagine how heavy the burden of despair and depression in his heart was!

"Father, if we don't try, how do we know we can't reach the capital?" Mo Yan asked back, leaving Mo Qingze speechless for a moment, lost in confusion.

Mo Yan didn't disturb Mo Qingze, who was lost in thought. She was so confident that they could reach the capital because of her space, but this secret couldn't be revealed.

Mo Qingze was not indecisive by nature. It was just that he had too many worries before, which had led him into confusion. Now awakened by Mo Yan's words, he couldn't help but think: Since there's no turning back, why fear moving forward?

"Yan'er is right. It's father who got confused. Father agrees to go to the capital!"

Mo Qingze touched Mo Yan's head affectionately, feeling relieved that his daughter had grown up and become more resolute. Very good, very good!

Mo Yan breathed a sigh of relief. The decision to go to the capital was settled.

...

The rain continued until late at night without stopping. Worried that the two children might fall ill after being soaked in the rain during the day, Mo Yan and Mo Qingze held Mo Zhen and Mo Xin tightly in their arms, afraid to fall into a deep sleep. Fortunately, the rain stopped in the middle of the night, and the two children were lucky not to catch a cold.

The brilliant sunlight once again illuminated the earth, and the post-rain air carried a fresh scent. The trees, which had turned yellow and wilted due to the drought, seemed to regain vitality, lifting the mood considerably.

The drought here was far less severe than in Lingnan, and the rain last night had somewhat alleviated the situation.

The children had been through a lot yesterday, so Mo Qingze didn't rush to set off. He planned to go out for a walk to see if he could find something to eat. He was afraid they wouldn't be able to endure the journey on empty stomachs.

However, as soon as he was about to leave, Mo Xin and Mo Zhen crawled up from the ground and grabbed onto his clothes, Mo Zhen with a trembling voice, "Father, Zhen'er is scared. Zhen'er wants to go with father!"

Mo Qingze looked at the two children in distress, feeling torn. If he took them with him, he was worried that he wouldn't be able to look after them properly, and they might get hurt.

When Mo Yan came back after drying their wet clothes, she saw the two little ones clinging to Mo Qingze like koalas, listening to him. When Mo Qingze mentioned going out to find food, she couldn't help but be moved. "Father, let me go instead. Xin'er and Zhen'er have been frightened. You should stay and watch over them!"

Mo Qingze was not reassured to let his eldest daughter go out alone, but he was also worried about the two little ones...

Seeing his dilemma, Mo Yan smiled and said, "Father, I won't go far. I'll just walk around nearby. If I can't find any food, I'll come back as soon as possible."

Thinking of his sensible eldest daughter, who knew her limits, Mo Qingze didn't say much more and just gave her some careful instructions before letting her leave. 

Next Chapter▶▶

Chapter 579: Qin Ruan is Third Young Master Hou's destined companion

Beijin Zhou had no idea about the complex emotions in Su Jing Shu's heart. Her ten years of feelings and pursuit were shattered by Hou Yirong's own hands today. She wished everything was a lie, but the truth was so cruel, leaving her battered and bruised emotionally, with a heart full of holes, seeking refuge but finding none.

At this moment, she didn't know whom to blame - her own foolishness, Nangong Chang's deliberate deceit, or Third Young Master Hou...

No, she couldn't blame Third Young Master Hou. Thinking of all the schemes she plotted against the Hou family and Third Young Master, Su Jingshu felt dizzy and disoriented. She tightly grasped Beijin Zhou's arm, trembling uncontrollably.

Su Jingshu had no strength left to leave; she implored Beijin Zhou, "Beijin Zhou, take me away."

Hearing the tremor in her voice, Beijin Zhou embraced her and walked out quickly. His men also retracted their weapons and followed.

Watching the figures of Su Jingshu and her group leave, Hou Yirong's eyes flashed with a hidden danger. His lips tightened into a straight line, and his elegant face remained indignant.

Learning that Su Jingshu had spent ten years climbing to the position of power in the Su family solely for Nangong Chang, Hou Yirong's emotions became complex. He felt anger, annoyance, helplessness, and even a hint of discomfort and pity for Su Jingshu.

To think that this woman had devoted a decade of her life to Nangong Chang because of a lie! How many years can a person spend on something?

He shattered Su Jingshu's faith with his own hands. He thought the realm he lived in was like heaven, but after breaking through that unstable barrier, he exposed an endless abyss.

For the rest of her life, Su Jingshu would be living in misery. But even all this couldn't satisfy Hou Yirong's sense of accomplishment for revealing the truth about how his third brother saved Su Jingshu.

If his third brother hadn't gone abroad, if an undercover agent from the Hou family had accompanied Su Jingshu instead, maybe this ten-year-long misunderstanding would never have happened.

Nangong family wouldn't have grown so arrogant and lost their sense of direction. Would Su Jingshu have transferred her affections to his third brother instead, potentially becoming his sister-in-law or even his companion?

Hou Yirong chuckled, shaking his head to dismiss the thought. Su Jingshu wouldn't become his sister-in-law.

His third brother was cold-hearted and emotionless. His relationship with Qin Ruan was an inexplicable attraction between their auras. It was as the Ling Xuzi had said - Qin Ruan might be his third brother's destined companion.

Although there was some uncertainty, Hou Yirong believed it to be true. Over the past few months, he had observed the interactions between his third brother and Qin Ruan. He saw how he prioritized her in every matter, always putting her first.

In terms of their daily life, his third brother was like a completely different person - loving, caring, and attentive to Qin Ruan's every need.

This side of his third brother astonished everyone in the Hou family. They appeared calm on the surface but were shaken inside. They realized that the Hou family's future mistress had been decided.

Qin Ruan had already occupied a special place in his third brother's heart.

Hou Yirong clenched and then relaxed his grip on the railing. He didn't like how his third brother was so eager to pave the way for Qin Ruan. The arrangement seemed like he was preparing for future events.

"Second Young Master, Third Madam is back," a subordinate walked over and informed him in a low voice.

Hou Yirong's melodious voice carried a hint of hoarseness as he asked, "Where is she now?"

"In the house, just arrived," the subordinate replied.

"Prepare the carriage; let's go meet your future lady," Hou Yirong said with a smile.

...

After returning to the Hou family mansion, Qin Ruan's complexion worsened. Whether it was just her imagination, she felt that something had been following them on their way back.

Her psychic power searched around, but she found nothing. The feeling disappeared only after the car entered the Hou family estate.

The Hou family had a protective barrier against any evil spirits entering the estate. The fact that the feeling vanished upon entering the mansion confirmed the truth of her earlier sensation.

During the entire journey back, she had been followed by something that couldn't be seen. This feeling was real, not her imagination.

Sitting in the back seat, Qin Ruan's delicate face appeared stern, and her eyes held an unfathomable coldness, chilling to the bone.

Lin Hao sensed that something was off in the car and looked at the rearview mirror inside the car. Seeing Qin Ruan's tense expression, he asked, "What's wrong?"

Qin Ruan's tone was cold and firm as she said, "I felt something following us all the way."

Lin Hao's hand on the steering wheel trembled, and the car swayed a bit. He struggled to keep the car steady, but his whole person seemed to be in bad shape.

A chill ran up his spine, spreading through his whole body. Lin Hao couldn't help but feel terrified after what he experienced tonight.

Qin Ruan comforted him lightly, "Maybe it's just my imagination."

She was only trying to comfort Lin Hao, but in her heart, she was certain that they were indeed followed.

Even so, Lin Hao's emotions couldn't relax. He tried to suppress his fear, and under the dim yellow streetlights, he controlled the steering wheel and drove towards Third Young Master Huo's small building.

Third Young Master Hou's small building was brightly lit.

After getting off the car, Qin Ruan was met by Hou Chuan, who was coming down the steps.

"Madam."

Seeing him, Qin Ruan looked inside the house and asked, "Has Third Young Master returned?"

Hou Chuan shook his head, "Third Young Master might return tomorrow; he's busy with matters today."

Qin Ruan's eyes lost their light, and her voice turned low as she acknowledged, "I see."

Hou Chuan bowed slightly, showing his respect, "Second Young Master is here; he just arrived, saying he has something to discuss with you."

"Let's go in, then."

Learning that Hou Yirong was here, Qin Ruan tugged her windbreaker and walked into the house.

Inside the hall, Hou Yirong stood up. His tailored suit and unbuttoned shirt looked casual and somewhat dandy.

"Brother Rong, do you need something from me?" Qin Ruan walked towards Hou Yirong with a faint smile on her face.

Hou Yirong gazed at her with a smile in his eyes. "My matter can wait; let's have dinner first."

"Let's discuss the matter first," Qin Ruan replied in a low voice.

Hou Yirong stood up, teasingly saying,

"No, my little brother would complain if I delay your dinner because of me."

Chapter 578: The Despair on Your Face Looks Beautiful

Hou Yirong's slender and fair fingertips tapped on the tablet.

On the left wall, a large screen lit up, displaying a private medical monitoring room with various high-end monitoring devices placed inside. All the devices were connected to the central incubator.

Inside the incubator lay a chubby white baby.

Through these devices, the baby's various data were clearly displayed on the screens in the monitoring room.

Hou Yirong narrowed his eyes and coldly stared at the disoriented and terrified Su Jingshu.

"Earlier, when you were three months pregnant, everyone thought it was the child of your bodyguard. Who would have thought that the child was actually Nangong Chang's? You quietly took the child out, and everyone assumed you had an abortion. But the survival rate of a child at this stage is relatively high even if they are taken out. Over the past few months, you've spent a lot of money and effort to carefully nurture this child, and it looks quite cute."

Hou Yirong walked up to the high-end screen.

He reached out and touched the baby lying in the incubator. "Look, his features have grown out now. Isn't he like a spitting image of Nangong Chang?"

Su Jingshu had already collapsed.

With one blow after another, her meticulously applied makeup had become disheveled.

She pleaded, looking up at Hou Yirong, "Hou Yirong, please, don't push me any further!"

"How is this pushing you?" Hou Yirong's voice was calm as he approached her.

He humiliated her by patting her face. "Su Jingshu, do you know, the despair on your face now looks very beautiful."

Hou Yirong's smile was sincere from the bottom of his heart.

Say he had a volatile temperament, call him twisted, but he couldn't deny that he enjoyed stepping on those who thought too highly of themselves.

Su Jingshu betrayed him, and that's not hateful.

Even if Su Jing Shu cuckolded him, it didn't reach the point of trampling her like mud.

The most despicable thing about this woman was that she regarded Nangong Chang as the benefactor who saved her from the swimming pool ten years ago.

She even spent the past ten years silently paying for this ridiculous reason.

Nangong family became more and more ostentatious because they believed that the Su family would never betray them.

Over the years, the Su family had made countless sacrifices to support the Nangong family.

Hou Yirong was furious. He felt sorry for his third brother, who had fallen seriously ill after saving someone's life.

The more Su Jingshu tried to evade, the more he wanted to stab her heart with a knife.

Hou Yirong looked down at Su Jingshu with indifference, his lips curling in a shallow arc of ridicule, as if mocking her ignorance.

He spoke in a cold and ruthless tone, "Su Jing Shu, you were born with a stain. Over the years, you used ruthless means to eliminate the outstanding talents of the Su family, just to gain power in the Su family."

"The Su family is now in your grasp, and you can do whatever you want. You live a much better life than other noble ladies. Unfortunately, you are arrogant and shortsighted. You seem to be moving steadily step by step, but all of this is under the premise of Nangong Chang being in control. It's all for nothing in the end."

"Please stop talking. I beg you to stop," Su Jingshu covered her ears, her body and mind fragile.

How could she accept this?

She also wanted to treat all this as a trap set by the Hou family.

But she knew that with the Hou family's strength, there was no need to deceive her to deal with the Su family.

Ten years, ten years of pursuit.

The person who had given her a second life back then now told her that she was wrong.

Ten years of feelings.

Who could bear such irony?

Su Jingshu sat on the ground, covering her ears, shielding herself from Hou Yirong's painful words.

She immersed herself in her own world, looking wretched and pitiful.

Confused, too confused!

How could she accept this?

Her desperate appearance made people pity her when they saw her.

But Hou Yirong had no sympathy for such a woman.

He kicked the pitiful woman lying on the ground, using his foot to step on her face.

Su Jingshu didn't resist, her eyes lifeless, an attitude of allowing him to do whatever he wanted.

Looking at her lifeless appearance, Hou Yirong suddenly felt bored.

He actually quite liked the despair on Su Jingshu's face just now, as if the sky was falling and the world was ending.

It looked so real and moving, giving him a sense of accomplishment.

Hou Yirong

was in a bad mood, and his voice became even colder.

"Su Jingshu, this is the second time you've knelt before me for Nangong Chang. I generously allowed you to take him away, and I wish you a happy ending. If you still want to hold a wedding for him before he dies, don't send an invitation to the Hou family. I find it distasteful."

With his sarcasm and mocking voice, Hou Yirong's figure appeared on the second floor balcony.

Beijin Zhou, who was waiting in the living room, saw his mistress in such a miserable state, being dragged like a beast.

His face changed drastically, and he quickly rushed over.

His subordinates followed closely behind him.

"Miss, are you okay?"

"Me... I'm fine," Su Jingshu's voice was hoarse, and she supported herself on Beijin Zhou's arm. "Let's go."

"Miss..."

"I said let's go!"

Su Jingshu couldn't stay here for even a minute.

"Don't forget to take Nangong Chang with you. After all, you, Miss Su, knelt before me twice for this man, let me humiliate you. In the end, you'll get what you want," Hou Yirong sneered and mocked from behind.

Su Jingshu's body trembled incessantly.

Beijin Zhou even heard the sound of her teeth grinding.

He guessed that his young mistress must be filled with hatred at this moment.

——The baby was taken out after three months, completely fabricated, and the background is set as a more technologically advanced land for the [Soft Couple]. It's just a fictional setting.

Author's Weibo: 5614706666 (For those interested, you can come find me~)