Chapter 77: I Only Want Her

This time, Li Yusha was completely stunned, and even Li Yuanfu and Song Qiaoying found it hard to believe. In unison, they exclaimed, "Designed by Ah Chen?"

"Isn't this design too beautiful?" Song Qiaoying praised repeatedly. "Even better than the jewelry designers under our banner. The style, the creativity... Truly, people in love are different!"

Unexpectedly, Si Yechen had such a romantic side. Li Yuanfu chuckled, "Ah Chen has a good heart. The design is so unique. Yanyan, have you ever given something to Ah Chen?"

Ou Yan listened and realized she hadn't, indeed. From the time they met until now, Si Yechen had been unilaterally giving. She hadn't really reciprocated or expressed gratitude.

"Look, Ah Chen gave you such a significant necklace, and Ah Chen personally designed a bracelet for you. When you have time, you should think about giving them something in return..." Li Yuanfu maintained a smiling demeanor.

"Uncle is exaggerating." Si Yechen, rather than letting the girl next to him feel awkward, sincerely said, "Yan Yan is already the best gift the heavens have given to our Si family. I only want her, nothing else."

Upon hearing this, Ou Yan's gaze shifted towards him, and he happened to look back. The tender affection in his eyes made Ou Yan unable to withstand it, and she subconsciously withdrew her gaze.

"Ah Chen's words are too sweet." Song Qiaoying smiled contentedly. "A tall and handsome young man who can speak so well. Yan Yan, you must hold onto him. I can see that Ah Chen will be a good husband in the future."

Ou Yan:...

"Thank you for the praise, Aunt."

Li Yusha couldn't find words to describe her feelings at this moment. She had reached the last step of the stairs, and she could finally leave this spiral staircase and stop hearing their conversation.

However, her steps seemed to be nailed down, and she couldn't move forward no matter what!

Ah Chen had actually designed a bracelet for Ou Yan and spoke such sweet words!

For someone as aloof and reticent as him to say something like that, it indicated the depth of his feelings for Ou Yan!

In just a few days, his affection for Ou Yan had reached such a level!

"Miss Yusha..." Zhang Mama extended her hand to support her, "Go upstairs and change your clothes. Don't catch a cold."

Li Yusha's eyes held envy and tears. She couldn't accept it. Clearly, she was the one who met Si Yechen first. If Ou Yan hadn't returned, everything would have been hers!

The position of the daughter of the Li family and the position of Si Yechen's wife all belonged to her alone!

Why, why was life so unfair!

Why did she start with the highest position only to be ruthlessly pushed off the cliff...

Although her heart suffered a severe setback, she subconsciously chose a sexy nightgown to wear, intending to show it to Si Yechen.

Downstairs, Si Yechen had already left, leaving only Li Yuanfu, Song Qiaoying, Ou Yan, and Aunt Lan in the living room.

Li Yusha glanced at it and did not come downstairs, quietly hiding beside the stairs to eavesdrop.

"I heard about the canteen from the company's people. I didn't expect Liu Guang to be so despicable. He's simply heartless! He actually gave the employees so many miscellaneous additives in their food for a whole year."

Li Yuanfu was very angry, "Fortunately, Yan Yan discovered it. Otherwise, the employees wouldn't know how much suffering they would endure, and the company would lose a lot of money!"

Sitting on the sofa, Song Qiaoying also heard about it for the first time, "Too heartless! Fortunately, Yan Yan has great ability. Just Yan Yan, where did you learn all this professional knowledge?"

So powerful!

How did she know what to add to what food to create what dish?!

Today, she heard from the company that Yan Yan casually and confidently exposed all the "conspiracies" of the canteen, making the on-site employees admire her to the core...

"I saw it online." Ou Yan's tone was indifferent, as if these were trivial matters.

"I can't believe there are people like this in the world. Collecting nine yuan per person from the employees for their meals, but providing such lousy food for them." Song Qiaoying couldn't help but ask, "Is he related to Hu Linqian?"

"Yes." Ou Yan replied indifferently.

"How did Hu Linqian react to this?"

"Begging for mercy."

"Begging for mercy? Even he has the face to plead for Liu Guang?"

 Song Qiaoying was vaguely angry. "I think he's probably involved in either profiting from it or covering up for Liu Guang, turning a blind eye."

Otherwise, how could Liu Guang dare to mess around on Li's territory?

"Fortunately, Yan Yan went, otherwise, we wouldn't know so many problems with the company!" Aunt Lan couldn't help but say, "Miss Yanyan is really amazing. In just a few days, she exposed two people who were harming the company!"

Both of these people were big parasites in the company. This discovery could be said to save the company a lot of money.

"Yanyan, you've been busy all day. Go upstairs and take a shower to relax," Li Yuanfu knew that the child was tired. Managing a company, regardless of its size, always involved many trivial matters.

"Yes, go take a shower and relax." Song Qiaoying revealed a loving smile, "Later, Mom will bring you some supper."

"I'm not hungry."

"The chef is preparing. Eat a little more," Song Qiaoying didn't know if she had eaten enough during the daily appointments with Si Yechen, and was afraid she would be reserved in front of Si Yechen, not daring to eat much.

"Then I'll go up first." Ou Yan didn't refuse her mother's kindness.

Li Yusha heard that she was going upstairs, so she quickly hid. Seeing Ou Yan closing the door, Li Yusha finally came out, overhearing Li Yuanfu and Song Qiaoying still praising Ou Yan downstairs.

"This child is really outstanding, simply a good seed for doing business. She must be cultivated."

"What cultivation! She's still young. Don't even think about giving her other subsidiaries!" Song Qiaoying complained with a trace of heartache.

"I was just thinking about that."

"Managing one company is enough for her to be busy. If her college entrance examination results come out, and she chooses to go to school, you must not let her manage this small company again!"

"Okay, okay, listen to my wife. No matter what Yan Yan chooses, I will support her and encourage her!"

"That's more like it."

"But the Li family's industry will definitely have to give her some share in the future. If she doesn't want to manage it, she can hire someone else to do it... Of course, these are all things for later."

...

Hearing their plans, Li Yusha's nails sank into her palms.

Even if Ou Yan is their biological daughter, why should she be able to get a share of the Li family's industry?

Special thanks to these patrons for their support ❤ : 【PROWESS of March 2024】

DreamTales Translations:

【jermira】 【Suliat Raheem】 【Michelle Graham】 【Gloriana Foster】 【CHAMPAKA R】 【DetectiveGeek421】 【Ha17eul】 【Lisa Pace】 【Tamara Vega】

Eternal Novel Hits:

【Hipployta】 【Esmeralda Linda】 【Something】 【Evzen Sichyokno】 【Nanashi D. Yurei】 【Sabrina Chase】 【Mani_C】 【onepiece】 【jumoke ajetunmobi】 【Jen】 【Hayuningtyas Hadiutami】 【Serenthia】 【Anna Cassano】

Bbing Translations:

[Kelloges]

 **Chapter 141: Brother Ah Si, Can't Wear It!**

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 142: Return the Favor

 Chapter 141: Take the Silver Hairpin

Next Chapter ▶▶

Chapter 597: Playing Tricks, Will Only Lead to Your Own Destruction

The black ball of sinister energy that rose from Qin Ruan's hands was following Xiao Guang, and it was Xiao Qiao.

Before leaving the Hou family, she wanted to deal with this trouble.

The reason she came to the flower room was that she was worried that the Third Young Master health would be affected by the sinister energy.

Even if there was a slight possibility, she would not allow it.

The black ball slowly ascended into the void and quickly transformed into a fierce ghost.

Xiao Qiao's eyes surged with crimson, her face twisted with ferocity and ugliness, and sinister energy filled the flower room.

The precious plants closest to her were trembling slightly, both their flowers and leaves.

Qin Ruan's gaze swept over the trembling plants affected by the sinister energy, and her red lips pursed displeased.

She looked at Xiao Qiao with a domineering gaze and said coldly, "I advise you to restrain yourself. If One of the plants in the flower room died because of you. I will make sure you and Xiao Guang will never be able to reincarnate!"

This flower room belonged to the Third Young Master.

She had heard from Hou Chuan that each plant here was collected by the Third Lord from all over the country.

If one plant died, it would be counted as Xiao Qiao's responsibility.

Xiao Qiao's voice was full of bitterness as she said with hatred, "Xiao Guang is dead, his soul scattered! What's the point of saying this now? You are also a woman, pregnant with a child, why are you so heartless!"

"Is it me who's heartless, or is it you and Xiao Guang who are cruel and ruthless?" Qin Ruan's dark eyes were like sharp blades as they pierced Xiao Qiao, "How many innocent lives did Xiao Guang harm for your sake? How many people did you have a hand in killing!"

Xiao Qiao's eyes burst with fierce red light, "Those people deserve to die!"

Qin Ruan's expression instantly became serious, "No one deserves to die. Everyone has their own destiny, and in this life, everyone has to pay the price for their actions!"

Even for wicked people, they have their own destiny, and it's not up to you to judge. You are just finding excuses for your killings!"

"No! That's not true!" Xiao Qiao shouted back.

Her black hair rose without any wind, drifting in the air, exuding a strong sinister energy.

Xiao Qiao pointed at Qin Ruan and yelled, "You are the murderer! You killed Xiao Guang!"

Qin Ruan rested her hand on the table and leaned back in her chair.

Her gaze slanted at Xiao Qiao, a smile that was not quite a smile on her lips, "I didn't have to make a move against a little ghost like him. I just refined him a bit, his three souls and seven spirits have not dispersed yet."

"You're lying! I saw him with my own eyes, he disappeared in an instant!" Xiao Qiao's voice was full of grief, and hatred filled her eyes.

She firmly believed that Qin Ruan was lying to her.

She wanted to take action against Qin Ruan, but knew she was no match for her. She could only stand there, her emotions uncontrollable, roaring in anger.

Qin Ruan stretched her hand towards Xiao Qiao, and in her other hand, there was another black mist.

Unlike Xiao Qiao's, it couldn't form a complete ball; it was just a faint and thin fog.

Even so, it was enough for Xiao Qiao to sense that it was Xiao Guang.

Knowing that Xiao Guang was still there, Xiao Qiao rushed towards Qin Ruan as if she had gone mad, "Give him back to me!"

Qin Ruan's voice was light and slow, with a hint of pleasure, "Don't come any closer, or I'll crush him. Then he will truly disappear into nothingness."

Xiao Qiao, who was about to float in front of her, immediately stopped at her words.

She didn't dare to take another step forward, for fear that Xiao Guang would completely vanish because of her.

Qin Ruan held the life force of Xiao Guang in her hand and stretched it out towards Xiao Qiao.

With her finger movements, the black mist in her palm also changed its shape accordingly.

Qin Ruan's eyes narrowed as she looked at the black mist, a chilling coldness in her deep and dark eyes, as if she could swallow all things.

She casually asked Xiao Qiao, "I'll give you a chance to confess. How did Xiao Guang target me?"

Xiao Guang and Xiao Qiao were clearly distinguished from each other, and Xiao Guang was the mastermind behind everything.

Everything was premeditated.

Xiao Guang was the key.

Xiao Qiao's face flashed with astonishment, and she denied, "No, Xiao Guang didn't do anything."

Qin Ruan tightened her five fingers, and the black mist in her palm also shrank.

"No!" Xiao Qiao shouted to stop her, her voice trembling.

Qin Ruan raised her head, her face frighteningly gloomy, and she stared at the murderous intent in Xiao Qiao's eyes.

"If I were you, I would honestly confess everything and have a chance at survival. Trying to be clever will only make you and Xiao Guang die even faster!"

Under the tremendous pressure released from Qin Ruan, Xiao Qiao's soul trembled.

She also knew that this was the time to be honest.

But if she really said it, it would make her and Xiao Guang have no place to be buried.

Tears of blood flowed down Xiao Qiao's face, and she choked, "I'll tell you, I'll tell you!"

She slowly began to speak, and she told Qin Ruan everything that had happened in the past half year.

Xiao Qiao did indeed come out of the Zhenpin Pavilion, and her name was Shao Qiao.

Before entering the Zhenpin Pavilion, her family was wealthy, and they were considered a small wealthy family.

Unfortunately, because they offended the Nangong family, they fell overnight.

All the young generation of the Shao family was sent to the Zhenpin Pavilion, while the elders were missing.

Shao Qiao stayed in the Zhenpin Pavilion for five years.

At first, she resisted, but she succumbed to the torture of the Zhenpin Pavilion's methods.

In these five years, she witnessed the darkness of the Zhenpin Pavilion.

Anyone locked inside was not treated as a human being.

They were mere commodities, even less valuable than the precious carpets on the floor of the Zhenpin Pavilion.

Anyone could command them as they pleased.

In these five years, Shao Qiao had long lost her innocence.

The unimaginable experiences she had, made her lose the desire to live.

One morning, she woke up in a familiar room and saw a strange face lying beside her. A sudden thought came to her mind.

Perhaps it was the inhuman torture she endured or the repulsive white hair and wrinkles on the stranger's face.

Shao Qiao pushed open the window of the room.

Ignoring the wounds all over her body and wearing only the thin and cold pajamas that were standard in the Zhenpin Pavilion, she jumped out of the window.

If she died, everything would end.

Unfortunately, she didn't die; she was caught by the balcony on the second floor.

Shao Qiao chose the wrong path. She didn't know that someone was working hard to save her from the sea of fire when she was desperate.

At that moment, Xiao Guang appeared.

When Shao Qiao was covered in injuries and half disabled, he appeared before her.

Seeing him, Shao Qiao realized that as long as she waited one more day, just one more day, she could leave the Zhenpin Pavilion in the open.

But fate played a big joke on her.

She met Xiao Guang when she was in such a miserable state.

Shao Qiao had imagined many times that if she hadn't chosen the desperate path that day, would she be able to live happily with Xiao Guang now.

However, there were no ifs in this world.

Xiao Guang was Shao Qiao's childhood playmate, and his family was also wealthy.

During Xiao Guang's primary school period, his parents had a failed investment, and the family moved away from the capital.

After so many years, he accidentally joined the Yin Yang Sect and became a metaphysician.

End of Chapter

Chapter 596:I feel like you're digging a pit for me to jump into

When Hou Chuan called the medical team, he immediately received the news that his third brother had fainted.

At the same time, he also received the dreadful news from the Su family that Su Jingshu's child had passed away.

The collision of these two events made him emotionally unstable and somewhat indiscreet in front of Qin Ruan.

Qin Ruan lazily leaned on the sofa with a faint smile at the corners of her mouth.

Her voice devoid of emotions replied, "Third Young Master is still unconscious. I'm considering whether to send him to Xiangxi Manor. They say it's suitable for his recuperation."

Hou Yirong nodded, "Indeed, Third Brother would find it easier at Xiangxi Manor."

Qin Ruan furrowed her brows, her gaze falling on her bulging belly.

After a while, she looked towards Hou Qiang, Hou Chuan, and Lin Hao not far away.

"Have the servants pack my things, and we'll head to Xiangxi Manor when Third Young Master wakes up."

The three men, each with their unique characteristics and restrained aura, hadn't spoken yet when Hou Yirong expressed surprise, "Does that mean you want to go along too?"

Qin Ruan raised her eyebrows slightly, a playful smile on her lips, "Is that not allowed?"

Hou Yirong pursed his lips and said, "Third Brother prefers peace and quiet."

Qin Ruan, in a languid manner, replied, "I'm quite quiet, not noisy."

Hou Yirong continued, "When Third Brother is sick, he is weak and doesn't want others to see."

Qin Ruan lifted her eyebrows slightly, "It's okay, I'm blind."

"Cough cough..."

Hou Yirong was stunned by Qin Ruan's self-deprecating humor.

He saw that she was determined to go to Xiangxi Manor.

After thinking for a moment, he earnestly said, "It's good to have you by Third Brother's side. You see, he likes quietness, but deep down, he also wishes to have someone to accompany him and talk to him."

Qin Ruan understood and nodded gently, "I see, he's an introvert."

"Cough cough..."

This time, it wasn't Hou Yirong speaking, but Hou Qiang and Hou Chuan, who were not far from Qin Ruan.

They had been by their master's side for many years, and it was the first time they heard someone describe the Third Young Master like that.

Qin Ruan turned her gaze towards them, narrowing her eyes, "Are you two catching a cold? If you're sick, stay at home and don't infect Third Young Master."

Hou Chuan hurriedly replied, "Madam, we're not sick, just got choked by saliva."

Qin Ruan touched the edge of the sofa, running her fingers back and forth.

She stared at the two men, her smile growing deeper, her voice low with a hint of sarcasm, "You're all grown-ups and still getting choked? Can you take care of Third Young Master like this?"

Hou Qiang and Hou Chuan lowered their heads, listening to her reprimand, not daring to speak again.

They knew Qin Ruan was in a bad mood, and she was venting her frustration on them.

In the end, it was because Hou Yunjiao had concealed his illness from her.

Qin Ruan lightly furrowed her brows, seemingly dissatisfied with their silence, "I think you two should stay behind at home instead of following us to Xiangxi Manor."

Compared to Hou Qiang's composure, Hou Chuan seemed a bit anxious, "Madam, we can handle it."

Qin Ruan smiled playfully, deliberately making things difficult for him, "I don't see how capable you are."

Hou Chuan stared into her deep black eyes, momentarily unsure how to respond.

Hou Yirong spoke up to break the tension, "Sister, stop making it hard for them. In the Hou family, as long as it's something Third Brother orders, they won't disobey. Even if the Old Master comes, they won't say a word."

Qin Ruan looked surprised, wearing an innocent expression, "Why do you think I'm making it hard for them? I'm clearly just showing concern."

She gazed at them innocently, and anyone unaware would think that it was Hou Yirong who was causing her trouble.

Hou Yirong couldn't help but recall that Third Brother used to tell him that Qin Ruan wasn't mature enough and needed more care. Now, he couldn't refute that.

Hou Yirong reached out and tapped Qin Ruan, smiling helplessly, "You're just like a child."

Qin Ruan remained calm, not refuting or admitting.

She was intentionally making things difficult for Hou Chuan and Hou Qiang, just venting her emotions harmlessly.

She couldn't blame Hou Yunjiao, that Hou Chuan and Hou Qiang were by his side.

So, she could only take it out on them a little.

Hou Yirong suddenly asked Qin Ruan, "Sister, do you want Hou Chuan and Hou Qiang to listen to your orders in the future, never hiding anything from you?"

Of course, Qin Ruan hoped that Hou Chuan and Hou Qiang would never hide anything from her when it came to matters concerning Hou Yunjiao.

She looked puzzled, "What do you mean, Brother Yirong?"

Hou Yirong touched his slightly longer, untrimmed hair and stared at Qin Ruan with a smile, his voice carrying a hint of temptation, "Take over the Punishment Hall of the Hou family."

Third Brother had always wanted Qin Ruan to take over the Punishment Hall and lay a foundation for herself in the Hou family. Hou Yirong knew about this.

"The Punishment Hall?"

Qin Ruan had heard about this place many times.

She didn't know what the Punishment Hall represented to the Hou family, but she could sense that it held significant importance.

Hou Yirong's slender eyes revealed a warm and gentle light as he continued to entice Qin Ruan, "If you take over the Punishment Hall, all the dark guards in the Hou family will be loyal to you. Hou Qiang, Hou Chuan, and Hou Zhi will also obey your commands, and they won't dare to deceive you about anything."

Qin Ruan looked at him, thinking something was off, "Brother Yirong, why do I feel like you're digging a pit for me to jump into?"

"That's where you're wrong. Remove that feeling and be confident."

Hou Yirong smiled teasingly, putting his thoughts out in the open, "Currently, the Punishment Hall is under Third Brother's control, with Hou Chuan managing it. He needs to consult Third Brother for all major and minor matters."

"The people who go to the Punishment Hall have committed wrongdoings and need severe warnings. Even if they don't die, they'll be punished severely. If you can take over the Punishment Hall,

you can help alleviate Third Brother's burden. You've seen it, Third Brother's body can't recover without proper rest for a few months."

Qin Ruan pondered, her face showing contemplation, "I can't do it."

The Hou family's Punishment Hall was related to all members of the Hou family, even the core connections between the main and branch lines.

Once she got involved, she would be entering the heart of the Huo family.

As she was, taking over the Punishment Hall would be illegitimate and wouldn't gain everyone's approval.

Qin Ruan considered all aspects but overlooked one thing—Third Lord's determination to pass the Punishment Hall to her.

Hou Yirong's smile faded slightly, "Sister, you can think it over. Being the mistress of the Huo family is not an easy role. Even if you don't consider yourself, you need to think about the child in your belly. You should know that with Third Brother's delicate health, there are still many noble ladies in the capital eyeing him, or more accurately, the position of the Hou family's mistress. Do you understand what I mean?"

Qin Ruan nodded, her expression calm as she replied, "With Third Young Master by my side, I believe he can protect me and the child."

She exuded confidence, leaving Hou Yirong somewhat at a loss.

He frowned and said in a deep voice, "But what if he's no longer here? The elders of the Hou family and other branch members may not recognize your identity, and what will you do then?"

Saying this, Hou Yirong also felt uncomfortable in his heart.

But he had to make Qin Ruan understand one thing.

Although the Hou family's main branch was harmonious, those elders and branch members might not necessarily recognize Qin Ruan's identity.

Hou Yirong had put in a lot of effort, but his words still stung Qin Ruan.

Qin Ruan's eyes flashed with a fierce light, and she stared at Huo Yirong expressionlessly.

"Second Brother, as long as I'm here, Third Young Master will always be by my side, with our child!"

Her voice was low and resolute, carrying a hint of anger.

Qin Ruan didn't like anyone bringing up the topic of Hou Yunjiao life or death.

Seeing Qin Ruan getting angry, Hou Yirong raised both hands, "I was just making a comparison. Since you've married Third Brother, you have to become a part of this family."

He looked down at Qin Ruan's belly, "In another three or four months, the child will be born. Whether it's a boy or a girl, as long as it's from the Hou family's main branch, they will have to bear the weight of the Hou family. You need to consider that."

Qin Ruan's eyelashes drooped slightly as she felt the child tumbling in her belly.

They were very active, never calm inside her belly.

She could imagine how lively they would be once they were born.

Qin Ruan spoke softly, "Second Brother, I need to discuss this with Third Young Master."

Hou Yirong's lips slightly curled up, "Sure, Third Brother also hopes you can share his burdens, and he will definitely agree to it."

Qin Ruan didn't respond, her small and exquisite face serious.

Suddenly, she raised her head, her gaze scanning back and forth between Hou Yirong, Hou Qiang, and H2uo Chuan.

"This time, Third young master's illness came on fiercely. Can any of you tell me why?"

"Don't you know?" Hou Yirong's face showed a surprised expression.

Qin Ruan shook her head, "I knew about Third Young Master's illness half a month ago. He came back that night, so it shouldn't have been a big deal. But this time, what happened?"

Hou Yirong's sharp gaze shot towards Hou Qiang and Hou Chuan.

Both of them bowed their heads, looking guilty.

Qin Ruan narrowed her eyes, a cold light flashing in them, "Are you hiding something from me?"

How many more things were they keeping from her!

Hou Yirong was closest to Qin Ruan and felt the unrestrained anger emanating from her.

He didn't hide it either and straightforwardly exposed the others, "Half a month ago, Third Brother fell ill and hurriedly went to Xiangxi Manor. He returned that night after taking Ling Xu's medicine. The medicine had side effects, and his body hasn't fully recovered until now."

Qin Ruan gritted her teeth, her eyes filled with coldness, "So the side effect is that his body becomes weaker day by day?"

She remembered the night when Hou Yunjiao left. She had no appetite and didn't eat dinner. In a daze, she opened her eyes to find herself lying in Hou Yunjiao's arms. He was worried that she hadn't eaten, so he rushed back to the Hou family late at night and instructed the kitchen to prepare her favorite dishes.

The extent to which Hou Yunjiao cared for her made Qin Ruan's heart soften.

Why was he so foolish? Even if she skipped a meal, she wouldn't starve to death, why was he so concerned?

Hou Yirong noticed the tenderness on Qin Ruan's face and said, "After taking the medicine, Third Brother needs at least several months to recover. Qin Ruan, he cares a lot about you."

"I know," Qin Ruan's hand trembled as she touched her belly.

The level of concern Hou Yunjiao had for her and the child made her feel flustered and suffocated, unable to put it into words.

Did he know that she also cared deeply about his health?

Why did he have to do such things that harmed his own body just to put her mind at ease?

It was too unfair!

Qin Ruan relaxed her body, leaning against the back of the sofa, her eyes somewhat vacant.

She felt like she owed Hou Yunjiao more and more.

As Qin Ruan felt guilty, Hou Yirong brought the topic back to the Punishment Hall, "Sister, next month, I will publicly execute someone in the Punishment Hall. I hope that before that, you will have thought it through and agreed to take over the Punishment Hall. You should know that using the Hou family's main branch to deter others is the most effective way to silence them. Consider it as a welcome gift for your unborn nephew or niece."

Before Qin Ruan could respond, a weak voice came from the direction of the second floor.

"Hou Yirong, your welcome gift seems a bit shabby," said a voice from upstairs.

Everyone turned their faces to look in the direction of the voice.

Hou Yunjiao stood on the second floor, dressed in a sleeping gown, with an elegant demeanor. Despite his pale complexion, his aura was steady and powerful, exuding the presence of an unrivaled expert.

Hou Yirong shrugged, looking like a rascal, "Third Brother, you should know, I'm the poorest in this family."

Hou Yunjiao replied with a gentle expression, "Every day, you handle business worth tens of billions, even hundreds of billions. Who would believe you are poor?"

"That's so unfair! I'm just a worker, working exclusively for you, and not even getting paid," Hou Yirong retorted.

Hou Yirong stood up, hands in his pockets, and said, "As a worker, it's time for me to go to work. I won't be a third wheel here. Bye."

He addressed Qin Ruan, who was looking up at him, "Sister, see you later."

Qin Ruan stared at the man on the second floor without turning her head, her tone cold, "Goodbye."

"Tsk!" Hou Yirong clicked his tongue and left.

His departing figure appeared calm and free-spirited, unlike his anxious and struggling demeanor when he arrived.

On the second floor, Hou Yunjiao and Qin Ruan, who was downstairs, locked eyes in a silent exchange.

Neither of them spoke.

Finally, Third Lord broke the silence, "Old Qiang, come up, I have something to tell you."

"Yes, Third Young Master!" Hou Qiang promptly ascended the stairs with steady steps.

Hou Yunjiao turned his gaze away from Qin Ruan, his back facing her, and walked towards the spacious corridor.

After Hou Qiang went upstairs, he caught up with his master.

As Qin Ruan sat downstairs, she lowered her eyes, a faint smile appearing on her lips.

In the brief exchange with Third Young Master just now, she sensed his guilt.

Qin Ruan's fingertips moved slightly as she instructed Hou Chuan, "Tell the servants to pack my things. When Third Young Master is done with his business, we'll head to the Xiangxi Manor."

"Yes," Hou Chuan immediately summoned two servants to go upstairs.

The vast hall was left with only Qin Ruan and Lin Hao.

After a while, Qin Ruan suddenly spoke, "Brother Hao, do you know about Third Young Master taking medicine late at night half a month ago?"

Lin Hao shook his head, "I knew Third Young Master came back, but I didn't know about him taking medicine."

Qin Ruan nodded, and her solemn expression softened.

She got up and walked towards the door.

Lin Hao followed, maintaining a distance of three steps behind her.

Qin Ruan reached the door of the sunroom and said to Lin Hao, who was following behind, "You don't need to come in."

She pushed open the glass door and stepped inside.

In the late autumn, the precious flowers in the sunroom were not as bright and dazzling as in summer.

The blooming period for many varieties of flowers was short, and those beautiful blossoms would have to wait until the next year.

Qin Ruan walked to the resting table, her peaceful aura slightly suppressed, emanating a dominant and chilling presence.

She extended her hand and slowly opened it.

A black sphere, emitting a sinister aura, floated from her palm.

*** this chapter is so long that it took me for awhile to finish 😪

Chapter 670: The Local Bully

Shu Yu found it strange that Da Ya's reaction was exaggerated, even if she suspected her of being a thief.

"Ah Yu, what's wrong? Did something happen? You were fine, so why did you come to the county town?" Da Ya asked, concerned. After all, those exiled to Zhengdao Village were not allowed to leave within a year.

Da Ya tightened her grip on Shu Yu's hand, worry evident in her eyes. "Eldest Sister, are you okay? Did something happen? You're here all of a sudden. I've missed you, so I came to see you and grandmother and Da Hu and San Ya. They're already at home. I came to find you specifically."

"Really?" Da Ya exclaimed happily. "Did you do something good to receive a reward?"

Shu Yu hesitated for a moment. She had originally planned to downplay it and discuss it later at home, but it seemed that Da Ya had a knack for catching the main point. She touched her nose and said, "Well... our team went hunting in the mountains and caught a big prey." Seeing Da Ya furrowing her brows with her imagination running wild, Shu Yu quickly added, "But it's not just a two-day break for me. I also switched jobs. From now on, I'll be working as a manager in the village's estate in Zhengdao Village. I'll be in charge of record-keeping, distributing food, and the work is light and not dangerous."

Da Ya became excited. "That's great! Let's go and tell Mother the good news. We can all feel relieved now."

"Yeah," Shu Yu agreed.

Da Ya held Shu Yu's hand and turned to leave the alley.

However, just as they were about to step out, they were suddenly blocked by a few people.

"Where do you think you're going?"

Da Ya's face turned pale, and she pulled Shu Yu's hand back, retreating a few steps while warily observing the newcomers.

Shu Yu felt the tension in Da Ya's grip and whispered, "Who are they?"

"Local bullies, led by Boss He," Da Ya whispered back.

Shu Yu furrowed her brows. "Does he know you?"

Da Ya nodded slightly, took another step back, and quickly explained, "You know, we were able to settle down so quickly in Heichang County thanks to the Hui Feng Escort Agency. When we first set up our stall, a few escorts from the agency used to come and buy food from us. With them backing us up, the local bullies didn't dare to cause trouble for us. But a few days ago, the escort agency encountered some trouble during a delivery, and now they've brought trouble upon themselves."

With the escort agency in trouble, the local bullies saw an opportunity. Initially, they hadn't demanded protection money from the Lu family, but now they targeted them.

"They came to our stall yesterday and warned my mother and me to prepare the protection money we owe them over these days. They said we have to give it to them tomorrow, or they won't let us set up our stall anymore."

Shu Yu understood. No wonder Da Ya had such a big reaction earlier when she was following her. Did she mistake the people following her for these local bullies?

Shu Yu squinted her eyes and looked at Boss He.

As they approached closer, Da Ya's anxiety grew. "Regarding the matter we talked about yesterday, have you made the preparations? We won't take advantage of you for nothing. From now on, our brothers will watch over your stall."

Boss He took a few steps forward and glanced at Shu Yu several times while speaking.

Special thanks to these patrons for their support ❤ : 【PROWESS of March 2024】

DreamTales Translations:

【jermira】 【Suliat Raheem】 【Michelle Graham】 【Gloriana Foster】 【CHAMPAKA R】 【DetectiveGeek421】 【Ha17eul】 【Lisa Pace】 【Tamara Vega】

Eternal Novel Hits:

【Hipployta】 【Esmeralda Linda】 【Something】 【Evzen Sichyokno】 【Nanashi D. Yurei】 【Sabrina Chase】 【Mani_C】 【onepiece】 【jumoke ajetunmobi】 【Jen】 【Hayuningtyas Hadiutami】 【Serenthia】 【Anna Cassano】

Bbing Translations:

[Kelloges]

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  Chapter 12: Easily Manipulated

Upon hearing that someone was looking for them, the Chen family became curious and stepped out of the carriage, only to find no one there.

Although they didn't see anyone, they noticed a bundle, which the servant said was delivered by the yamen officials.

Chen Xue and the others looked at each other, thinking it might be from Xu Tian. Although they were curious why he didn't come himself, they understood he had to watch over the exile group and might not have time for them.

They opened the bundle and found food inside, like steamed buns and cakes, but they weren't interested.

Inside the carriage, they had already eaten their fill, especially since Chen Xue had revealed her spatial abilities, so they didn't bother hiding anymore and simply conjured various snacks.

They ate pastries, dried fruits, fresh fruits, or chatted while snacking, feeling pleasantly full in a daze.

Being full themselves wasn't the issue; the important thing was to make those nearby suffer.

The exiled prisoners, already dizzy from hunger, occasionally caught whiffs of pastry aroma, only to have it change to the scent of melon seeds before they could even savor it.

In short, various food aromas lingered in their noses, tempting their appetites.

However, they couldn't locate the source of the smells and assumed it was the officials in the carriages ahead and behind them, harboring numerous grievances.

Returning to the main topic...

Before Chen Yuan could decide what to do with the food, he saw someone approaching and became curious.

What kind of day was it that everyone was coming over? Could it be a housewarming celebration? It's just a carriage, right?

As the person approached, he saw that it was Zhang Yiquan, his colleague. Chen Yuan was a Left Attendant of the Ministry of Revenue, while Zhang Yiquan was a Right Attendant.

Although they were familiar, Chen Yuan rarely interacted with him because he found him often insincere and unworthy of friendship.

The corruption case had almost implicated the entire Ministry of Revenue, as investigations revealed collusion from top to bottom, resulting in the embezzlement of disaster relief supplies.

Chen Yuan had been ill at that time and on sick leave, otherwise, with his character, he would have definitely reported it.

When he returned to work after recovering, the scandal had already erupted.

The embezzlement of disaster relief supplies had been exposed.

And the mastermind was none other than Chen Yuan himself.

Chen Yuan was bewildered, facing the written confession implicating him as the mastermind by the entire Ministry of Revenue. He was rendered speechless, unable to defend himself.

Moreover, with ample evidence, the verdict was swift, leading to immediate execution.

If not for the pleas from some officials who knew his character and knew he wouldn't embezzle, he would have faced a harsher punishment than exile.

Anyway, the one who had admitted Chen Yuan's mastermind role was none other than Zhang Yiquan.

"Brother Chen!"

Zhang Yiquan, thick-skinned as he was, approached with some embarrassment, but when he saw Chen Yuan's expression, he wondered why he was being avoided.

"Now that we're both exiled, what's the point of holding onto past grievances? Why not let go..."

"Let go!"

Chen Yuan initially didn't want to engage with him, but his words ignited a fury within him.

"I've been falsely accused and lost my official position for no reason. If you were in my shoes, could you let it go?"

"Furthermore, my wife and daughter are innocent, yet because of a few words from you people, they're implicated, exiled thousands of miles away to the barbaric lands of the south. They waste away their prime years for no reason. Could you let it go?"

"I'm not a saint, I'm a human being, a husband, and a father. I haven't sought revenge on you, which is already quite generous. And you want me to let go of my hatred?"

If he hadn't been impulsive in seeking revenge, risking his life and endangering his wife and daughter, seeking vengeance would have been minor compared to the danger his family faced. He was angry enough to kill Zhang Yiquan with his own hands.

However, faced with Chen Yuan's furious rebuke, Zhang Yiquan remained unfazed, even smiling.

"If Brother Chen feels better after cursing, then go ahead. After you're done, let's discuss..."

Facing such thick-skinned audacity, Chen Yuan suppressed his anger and turned to retreat into the carriage.

"No discussion needed!"

Although he didn't know what Zhang Yiquan wanted to discuss, he had no intention of agreeing.

"Brother Chen, don't rush to refuse. Let me say a few words. I know Brother Chen's family is in financial straits..."

Is he ever going to stop?!

Chen Yuan was speechless. Why did it seem like the whole world knew he was broke and his family was struggling? Wait, when did I ever say we were struggling?

Zhang Yiquan didn't understand Chen Yuan's thoughts and continued, "The journey of exile is long and arduous. Considering your family, wouldn't it be better to have some means of transportation?"

"I'm willing to offer 100 taels to purchase your carriage and even give you a donkey cart as a gift. This way, you'll still have a mode of transportation and gain 100 taels."

"With this 100 taels, managing the journey ahead, whether in dealing with officials or purchasing supplies, won't be difficult..."

Inside the carriage, upon hearing Zhang Yiquan's offer, the faces of Chen Xue and the others darkened. How shameless of him to put us in this situation and then want to buy our carriage?

And to top it off, he's acting like he's doing us a favor, even saying he'll gift us a donkey cart. It's simply insulting.

"Too much!"

Chen Yuan was immediately furious, turning to leave the carriage to confront Zhang Yiquan, but was stopped by Chen Xue.

"Dad, let me handle this!"

Stepping out of the carriage, Chen Xue looked at Zhang Yiquan. "Mr. Zhang, are you really short on money?"

Zhang Yiquan didn't expect Chen Yuan not to come out but for his daughter to appear instead. He frowned slightly, wondering if Chen Yuan didn't want to talk to him and sent his daughter to refuse him instead.

But, in such times of exile, there weren't many formalities.

However, knowing that Chen Yuan was very fond of his daughter, he couldn't understand why he wouldn't want to see him.

He couldn't figure it out but heard Chen Xue continue, "Mr. Zhang isn't short on money but lacks a carriage. So, if we were to sell it for 10,000 taels, would Mr. Zhang be interested?"

Dream on!

Zhang Yiquan almost blurted out, but instead chuckled, "10,000 taels? If you don't want to sell, why ask for such a sky-high price?"

Chen Xue didn't mind, revealing a look of realization. "So, Mr. Zhang isn't actually short on money. I thought it was just us who were poor, but it turns out Mr. Zhang is also quite impoverished."

Bullshit!

Who's as poor as you?!

Zhang Yiquan, as thick-skinned as he was, couldn't bear to hear such words and couldn't help but retort.

"What nonsense! Even if my Zhang family is down and out, 10,000 taels is still affordable."

He sneered, "It's just that your two worn-out carriages aren't worth that much."

"Is that so!"

"Well then, I wish Mr. Zhang success in achieving his aspirations and soon escaping the donkey cart!"

Upon hearing the words 'donkey cart,' Zhang Yiquan seemed to smell his own stench and his expression changed. His formerly lofty demeanor plummeted in an instant, quickly reverting to a humble demeanor as he hastily said,

"Um, Miss Chen, let's talk. Let's negotiate!"

Seeing her daughter effortlessly manipulating a former high-ranking official who had once held great power, Chen Yuan and his wife looked at each other in astonishment and couldn't help but feel relieved and proud that their daughter had grown up.

Special thanks to these patrons for their support ❤ : 【PROWESS of March 2024】

DreamTales Translations:

【jermira】 【Suliat Raheem】 【Michelle Graham】 【Gloriana Foster】 【CHAMPAKA R】 【DetectiveGeek421】 【Ha17eul】 【Lisa Pace】 【Tamara Vega】

Eternal Novel Hits:

【Hipployta】 【Esmeralda Linda】 【Something】 【Evzen Sichyokno】 【Nanashi D. Yurei】 【Sabrina Chase】 【Mani_C】 【onepiece】 【jumoke ajetunmobi】 【Jen】 【Hayuningtyas Hadiutami】 【Serenthia】 【Anna Cassano】

Bbing Translations:

[Kelloges]

Next Chapter▶▶