Chapter 59: Take the Initiative to Apologize, Then Kiss Him


Jiang Chenchen glanced at her phone and saw that it was Sheng Mingsi calling. She thought it wasn't a good time to answer.


But picking up the call right away exposed her.


She quickly pressed the phone to silent mode and returned it to her pocket.


However, she soon wondered why he was calling. Did something urgent happen? What if it was an emergency? She hesitated, debating whether to answer or not. Chen Fangman, sitting beside her, glanced at her and teased, "Not answering?"


Raising her slender eyebrows, she lowered her voice to playfully mock, "Is it a surprise inspection?"


Jiang Chenchen looked at her, asking, "Inspection for what?"


Chen Fangman shook the red wine glass in her hand. "Just kidding, little girl. You're good at acting dumb."


"Maybe it's something important. Go ahead and answer, but use the restroom over there," Chen Fangman suggested.


Jiang Chenchen stood up and headed to the restroom, but by the time she got there, the call had ended.


She dialed back.


On the other end, a stern voice demanded, "Where are you?"


"I'm in... Hai Dao City."


"Exact location."


Sheng Mingsi's cold voice became even more intense, with a suppressed anger in his tone. "Don't lie to me, or I won't forgive you."


Jiang Chenchen sensed the seriousness in his voice and decided not to conceal the truth. She admitted it honestly.


Sheng Mingsi's expression grew darker after hearing her explanation.


She was deceived into participating in a romantic reality show by Gu Mingmei? Romance? Sheng Mingsi restrained his anger and scolded, "Do you even understand what love is? Just for the sake of making a little money?"


"I followed the script at that time. I was desperate for money because I had no other options," Jiang Chenchen explained in a low voice.


"Although I lied to you because I was afraid you would be angry, you are still angry. But I want to finish this job and at least get paid for it."


She spoke rapidly, both anxious and unwilling to give up.


She might not have cared or understood before, but now she didn't want to be someone who relied solely on others.


There was a moment of silence on the other end.


"Do as you wish."


After saying this coldly, Sheng Mingsi hung up the phone.


Jiang Chenchen listened to the sound of the phone hanging up and stood there in a daze.


Was he still angry? Was it unforgivable?


When she walked out of the bathroom, her head was buzzing. She sat back at the table, and Chen Fangman poured her a glass of red wine.


"What's wrong? Is your friend angry?" Chen Fangman looked at her.


Jiang Chenchen looked at her, her voice very soft. "How did you know?"


"I guessed. I didn't expect it to be true." Chen Fangman sipped her red wine, smiling seductively. "If it were me, I would be angry too."


Jiang Chenchen was confused. How did she know something had happened?


"How do you avoid getting angry?" She asked humbly.


Though she asked, her expression did not convey humility; it was rather indifferent.


Even if this segment were recorded and edited for the show, it would appear rather ordinary. A simple misunderstanding among friends.


"Are you asking me? I'll tell you after you finish this glass of wine."


Chen Fangman gestured to the full glass of red wine in front of Jiang Chenchen. Jiang Chenchen thought about it and took a sip.


The alcohol content of the red wine in front of her was negligible.


Others looked over in surprise, wondering how this seemingly reserved girl could drink so well.


Chen Fangman moved closer, leaned in, and whispered while pointing at the glass of wine, "Apologize proactively, and then..."


At the same time, under the table, her hand wrote two words in Jiang Chenchen's palm.


Kiss him.


Jiang Chenchen: ? Would kissing him really make him not angry?


But thinking about it, it seemed that when she was a child and made her parents angry with her mischief, kissing their cheeks really made them not angry anymore.


She thought this method might work. When she returned home, she would use this trick.


Chen Fangman smiled and withdrew her hand, looking at her sideways. She hoped to see a bit of embarrassment on her face, but unfortunately, this face showed no expression, making it hard to read.


Feeling a bit disappointed, she reminded her, "Jiang Chenchen, don't drink too much. You still have to dance later!"


"I won't drink anymore."


After dinner, everyone pitched in to clean up the table and wash the dishes. Not many of them were used to washing dishes at home, but now they were all very diligent.


The living room was cleaned up, the lights and music were in place, and the atmosphere was ready.


The celebrity host took the stage. "Let's dance together! Choose your heartthrob again!"


Jiang Chenchen let go of Jiao Weiyun, rotated backward, and looked for Lu Su in the crowd. But instead of Lu Su, it was Zhan Momo who put her hand on Jiang Chenchen's shoulder, winking at her. "Come on! Let's dance together!"


The atmosphere in the room turned strange as the pairs of men and women switched partners.


Zhan Momo, who was not as tall as Jiang Chenchen, put her hand on Jiang Chenchen's shoulder and turned off her microphone. She approached Jiang Chenchen and said in a low voice, "Don't get close to that man."


"He's impotent."

Next Chapter▶▶

  Chapter 21: A Letter to Readers for the New Year

2022 has passed, and last year's book was nearly a million words long, but it didn't even earn a thousand. It went straight to grandma's house. This time, the new book won't be self-indulgent. It will follow the mainstream market. The genre should be considered feel-good literature, definitely more interesting and enjoyable than the old book.

As for stories about chasing updates, cough cough, well, actually, Little Fish hasn't encountered chasing updates yet. There aren't many tips either, just one or two yuan in tips...

Also, about interacting with readers, cough cough, it's a bit embarrassing to say, because there aren't many comments, it's a bit awkward.

Anyway, last year's book failed completely, but this new book will correct the mistakes of the past. Let's not talk about anything else for now, at the very least, it will give readers a good time.

Alright, I won't ramble on anymore.

Wishing all the cuties a more and more beautiful, younger-looking year, getting rich every day, and achieving financial freedom.

PS: Commenting on the Easter egg chapter gives you a chance to win up to 6666.

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  Chapter 32: Damn, How Could It Be Him

In the courtyard, Mo Yan idly plucked the leaves of the vegetables in the garden and threw them to the ground for the little chicks to eat. Watching the little yellow chicks squirming their chubby bodies to grab the food, she found it amusing. From time to time, she even poked their bottoms with her fingers. When a chick couldn't stand steadily and fell headfirst to the ground, it amused her even more.

There were a total of eight chicks, hatched by a hen in the space. The hen had laid the eggs in a very concealed place, which Mo Yan hadn't noticed at first. It wasn't until she stumbled upon the hen foraging with her chicks in the space a couple of days ago that she caught them and raised them outside as pets to add some fun to life.

"Big sister, you're really bored!"

Zhen'er, lying on the small table writing large characters, was speechless about his sister's mischievous behavior. Clearly, she was a serious person, but sometimes she acted like a fool.

Mo Yan playfully rubbed his head. "Don't you think they're cute? If we don't play with them now, they won't be fun when they grow up! Just like you, since you started learning, you've become less cute! Children should enjoy their childhood!"

Zhen'er rolled his eyes. No matter how cute the chicks were, playing with them every day was boring.

"Sister, we'll have to return to our hometown soon. Are you planning to take these chicks with us?"

As Xin'er asked, she finished the last stitch and looked at the newly made purse. She nodded in satisfaction. This purse should sell for eight coins in the embroidery shop, right?

Talking about returning to their hometown, Mo Yan lost interest in playing with the chicks. She silently counted and realized that there were only nine days left until the deadline of September thirtieth.

Zhen'er also silently put away the paper and pen and watched the chicks pecking for a while. Then, with a trace of hope, he asked, "Big sister, are there no other options?"

Mo Yan patted his little head and shook her head in his hopeful eyes. "Returning to our hometown is also good. When the time comes, dad will go to the town to be a teacher, and you can go to dad's school to study. We'll find a good embroidery master for your second sister, and I'll stay at home to farm. Then, our family can live like landlords!"

The beautiful vision made Zhen'er's dim eyes suddenly brighten. After thinking about it for a while, he suddenly felt that returning to their hometown wasn't so bad.

"Sister, are you really going to find an embroidery master for me?"

Xin'er 's eyes also lit up with excitement. She liked embroidery, especially the large screens in the embroidery shop. They were so exquisite that they looked like real objects. She thought she could only embroider small purses and handkerchiefs in the future, but her sister unexpectedly wanted to find an embroidery master for her.

Mo Yan pinched her soft cheek and smiled, "Of course it's true. When have I ever lied to you?"

This girl had been completely immersed in needlework since she started learning, every time she went to the embroidery shop to deliver her work, her legs couldn't move, and her thoughts were all written on her face. How could Mo Yan not see it? Although her embroidery skills were not bad, compared to those professional embroiderers in the embroidery shop, she was far behind. She couldn't teach Xin'er much.

"Sis, you're so nice!" Xin'er threw herself into her sister's arms, her eyes misty with tears. Without a mother, it didn't matter. She had the best sister in the world.

"I'm your sister, of course I'll be good to you. You're such a silly girl!" Mo Yan chuckled lightly.

...

Late at night, after the two little girls fell asleep, Mo Yan opened her eyes and quietly got out of bed. She put on her shoes and went to the courtyard.

At this time, the moon was hazy, and everything was silent. She yawned and was about to go into the space to harvest the potatoes she had planted a few days ago when she heard a loud bang at the courtyard door, almost making her scream in fright.

Who was outside the door? Could it be a thief?

Mo Yan covered her thumping chest, her eyes fixed on the courtyard door. They had been living here for nearly two months, and she hadn't heard of any nearby families being robbed. But in the middle of the night like this, if it wasn't a thief, could it be a ghost?

In the dim moonlight, she quietly walked to the eaves, took the mallet used for pounding clothes, and walked to the side of the courtyard door, hiding her body behind the door, listening carefully to the movement outside. If someone broke in, she would strike first.

"Bang, bang," two more loud sounds, louder than before, made Mo Yan's heart race, and her palms began to sweat.

Just as she was thinking about whether to call her father in time, suddenly a figure unexpectedly passed over her head, and with a "thud," fell behind her.

"Ugh..."

Probably in pain from the fall, the figure made a suppressed groan, struggling to get up. But Mo Yan didn't give him a chance. She raised the mallet high with both hands and fiercely struck the figure's back.

"Thud!"

The sound of the mallet hitting the flesh made Mo Yan feel pain herself. The figure heavily fell to the ground, motionless.

Mo Yan wiped the cold sweat from her forehead, walked over, and kicked the fallen figure. She felt his body was stiff, and kicking him hurt her toes.

"Tsk tsk, didn't expect the thief to be so muscular. What a pity, why do something bad when you could do something good!"

With such a good figure, who knew what his face looked like!

Suddenly, such a thought popped into Mo Yan's mind. Looking at the unconscious thief, she squatted down, struggling to turn him over. At this moment, a strong smell of blood rushed over her, almost making her vomit.

The smell of blood was so strong, could it be that she accidentally hit his head and cracked it open?

Mo Yan felt a little panicked. She wanted to teach the thief a lesson, but she didn't intend to kill him. The back of the head was so fragile, and the mallet was so heavy. There must be a problem.

Suppressing her fear, she tremblingly reached out to touch the back of the thief's head. To her relief, there was no wound!

She sat down on the ground, relieved, thinking about the fear she had just experienced. She couldn't help but laugh at herself. Immediately after, she couldn't laugh anymore. Since the wound wasn't caused by her, it must have been caused by someone else. Could this person be being chased by someone?

Thinking of this, Mo Yan's face became extremely ugly. Without caring much, she quickly took off his black mask. When she saw the person's face, she couldn't help but exclaim in astonishment, "Damn, how could it be him?"

Next Chapter▶▶

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  Chapter 94: Changing Residence

"Even their own mother didn't bother." Ou Yan casually leaned against a tree, saying, "Let the two sisters solve their own problems."

He Ning, upon hearing this, thought, so you just casually kicked her a moment ago? It seems you expected Yin Panpan to win and were leisurely enjoying the show?

Li Chunyuan knew that her daughter needed to vent, and it had to be done in person; otherwise, she might bottle up her emotions too much.

Yin Qing, used to a life of luxury, was delicate and lacked strength. Unlike Yin Panpan, who had been working in the office for years, hauling countless buckets of water...

Soon, Yin Panpan gained the upper hand. She mounted Yin Qing and started hitting her. "If you don't kneel today, I'll keep hitting you until you do! Kneel or not? Will you kneel?"

"Stop it, stop it..." Yin Qing covered her swollen face. Her elegant dress was torn, revealing a glimpse of her body. Panicking, she tried to cover herself, "Panpan, sister, please stop..."

Seeing her frightened, Yin Panpan ceased her actions.

In the end, Yin Qing, still protecting her chest, knelt on the ground. Under Yin Panpan's gaze, she bent down to kowtow to her deceased uncle. Although her forehead didn't touch the ground, it was a symbolic gesture.

"sister Panpan, can I leave now?"

"You haven't apologized to my mom yet!"

Although Yin Qing was unwilling, she knew she couldn't handle all of them alone. She reluctantly said, "I shouldn't have dumped garbage on my uncle's grave, and I shouldn't have let people bully you... sister Panpan, can I see a doctor? I'm in pain all over..."

When she returned home, she would definitely tell her parents and make them see!

"You still haven't apologized to my mom. She's the elder and your aunt. You not only bullied me, but you also let people bully her! You humiliated her!" Yin Panpan was furious.

"I'm sorry, Auntie. I was wrong."

Li Chunyuan, knowing that her apology wasn't sincere, turned her head, not responding.

"Get out!" Yin Panpan didn't want to see Yin Qing anymore.

Yin Qing, holding her ruined dress, ran off, followed by seven or eight bodyguards. A Xiong and A Li, as they left, received a couple of kicks from Yin Panpan.

"Not bad, making progress," Ou Yan praised with a smirk. "You're no longer the easy target you used to be."

"President Ou, thank you for today... If it weren't for you, the consequences would have been unimaginable."

Yin Panpan helped her mother up. "Come, let me introduce you. This is my mother, Li Chunyuan. Mom, this is my boss, President Ou, and Assistant He."

"Thank you both for your help today," Li Chunyuan bowed deeply, expressing her sincere gratitude.

"Your injury..."  Ou Yan noticed the wound on Li Chunyuan's elbow.

"It's nothing. I accidentally got hurt," Li Chunyuan covered it casually.

"Mom, does it hurt?" Yin Panpan looked at her with concern. "There's so much blood; let me take you to the hospital."

"I want to deal with the tombstone first..." Li Chunyuan's gaze fell on the tombstone, the red paint very prominent. The empty space in front of the grave and the surrounding grass were also stained with paint.

"It probably won't come off... Let's get a new tombstone for Dad. Yin Qing should be heading home to complain. If we don't leave now, it might be dangerous."

Yin Panpan knew Yin Qing's character well; she had never suffered a loss. After being insulted today, she would definitely seek revenge.

"I'll send you to the hospital first,"  Ou Yan suggested, noticing that both Li Chunyuan and Yin Panpan were injured.

"No need; we have medicine at home. We'll go back and take care of it." Li Chunyuan didn't like to trouble others. She politely and kindly said, "We'll take the bus home later."

"Since we don't have much to do, let us give you a ride. Panpan, where do you live?"

"Ah? We... we rent a place in Huaxiang."

"Huaxiang? Huaxiang is a bit run-down, with small units ranging from 27 to 38 square meters."

"Let's go to Huaxiang,"  Ou Yan instructed He Ning.

"Got it."

Ten minutes later.

Their car stopped at the entrance of the Huaxiang residential area. Li Chunyuan insisted on inviting them up for tea.

He Ning checked the time and nodded at  Ou Yan, indicating there was still time.

"Auntie your place is small; don't be bothered...." Li Chunyuan, holding onto  Ou Yan, said warmly, "You've both helped us a lot, and we don't have any proper gifts to offer. Please, come upstairs for a hot cup of tea. Don't be shy."

"Yeah, President Ou, don't be polite. Let's go upstairs together! He Ning, you come too?"

He Ning, hearing Yin Panpan's invitation, looked at  Ou Yan with anticipation.  Ou Yan nodded, and they followed them upstairs.

"You've become the CEO at such a young age? Truly remarkable..." Li Chunyuan praised  Ou Yan.

"Mom, our President Ou is amazing, with profound insights in design! Every time she guides me with her sketches, the quality goes up by several levels!" Yin Panpan praised  Ou Yan.

"Is that so? Then you should learn more from your President Ou."

"Call me  Ou Yan."

...

Upon entering, He Ning realized their home was tiny, especially the living room.

On the left were two small rooms, a toilet in the middle, and a small kitchen on the right, along with a tiny dining table. It had become their cozy home.

Although it was small, it was clean and tidy, exuding warmth.

"For now, we can only afford a place like this..." Li Chunyuan smiled, offering them slippers as they entered. She then prepared tea.

"Don't worry about it, Auntie."  Ou Yan, seeing the situation, said, "I think that Yin Qing is not a good person. It might be better to find another place to live."

Yin Panpan had thought about this, "But... currently, there's no two-bedroom place cheaper than this."

  Chapter 93: Kneel Down and Kowtow

Still in shock, Yin Panpan thought, it's President Ou, President Ou is here!!

President Ou's skills are unexpectedly good?

President Ou pulled Yin Panpan up, maintaining her usual expression, "Are you okay?"

Yin Panpan shook her head, tears welling up. Thankfully, President Ou was here; otherwise...

Meanwhile, He Ning lifted a stone and smashed it onto A Xiong's back. A Xiong winced in pain and turned to see a well-dressed young man, seemingly not skilled in combat.

Yin Qing snapped back to reality, looking at the two people in front of her, somewhat surprised, "Oh, brought some reinforcements, did you?"

Besides the seemingly weak He Ning, there was also a girl ready to fight.

"Looks pretty good," Yin Qing evaluated Ou Yan's delicate features. Then, she turned to her bodyguard, "A Li, have you set your eyes on her? Go ahead, she's all yours. As for this guy..." she pointed at He Ning, "Just consider him gone."

"Quickly leave..." Yin Panpan pleaded with fear, "Don't mind us; just leave this place..."

These people were insane; they could do anything!

Although President Ou was skilled, it seemed impossible to beat so many people.

Ou Yan, however, seemed unfazed. Her icy expression resembled winter frost, piercing and cold.

She shielded Yin Panpan behind her, casually asking Yin Qing, "Did you dump the garbage this morning?"

"What if I did?" Yin Qing stood there arrogantly, crossing her arms, "I had someone splash paint earlier too. What? Do you want to defend Yin Panpan? Do you know your place?"

"Don't bother about us..." Yin Panpan held onto Ou Yan's clothes, whispering anxiously, "Just leave; there are too many of them..."

A crisp sound echoed.

A clear slapping sound reached everyone's ears.

Before anyone could react, another hard slap landed on Yin Qing's face.

Ou Yan's movements were fast, accurate, and ruthless. In less than a second, she left two distinct palm prints on Yin Qing's left and right cheeks.

"Do you dare hit me?" Yin Qing couldn't believe it; was this girl insane or just fearless? "Didn't Yin Panpan tell you who I am?!"

"Oh, she mentioned it. 'Bitch'," Ou Yan quoted.

Even He Ning found it amusing.

"You... how dare you..."

"The first slap was for Yin Panpan, the second was for the debt you owe her mother, and this one..." Ou Yan slapped Yin Qing's face again, "is for her deceased father. Do you understand the concept of respect?"

"You... you... Why are you still standing there? Hurry up and deal with this little bitch!!"

Upon Yin Qing's command, seven or eight bodyguards rushed towards Ou Yan.

Yin Panpan had never witnessed such a scene before, terrified, she stepped forward, "It's not her fault. If you have to vent, vent on me..."

"Ms. Ou, you should leave. I'll handle this mess," He Ning, although afraid, bravely protected Ou Yan. He whispered, "Can you drive? If not, run down the mountain. I'll hold them back!"

"None of you will escape today!" Yin Qing swore, pointing at Ou Yan, "Leave this bitch alive. I want to torture her slowly!"

The bodyguards approached Ou Yan, but she either skillfully dodged their attacks or effortlessly kicked them several meters away. She maintained a carefree demeanor throughout.

Yin Qing watched her bodyguards fall one by one until not a single one could stand, only lying on the ground in pain.

"You bunch of useless fools! Can't even handle a teenage girl! Get up and do something!"

However, the bodyguards were genuinely in pain and couldn't stand up.

Yin Qing stared at Ou Yan with disbelief as she approached. She was fearful and involuntarily stepped backward.

"Are you aware of who I am?!" Yin Qing shouted, furious.

"Oh, sorry. I don't remember ugly faces," Ou Yan replied casually.

"Deal with her! What are you waiting for?!"

Yin Panpan was scared, "President Ou, should we intervene?"

Ou Yan remained unperturbed, "No need."

As Yin Qing desperately commanded her bodyguards, Ou Yan kicked Yin Qing down to her knees.

"You... You..." Yin Qing, filled with rage, stared at Ou Yan. "Remember this! You've crossed the wrong person!"

"Sorry, I don't remember ugly faces," Ou Yan quipped.

"Kowtow and apologize to my father!" Yin Panpan pressed Yin Qing's head, forcing her to kowtow. But Yin Qing resisted, and they ended up in a scuffle.

"President Ou, how do you plan to handle this?" Ou Yan looked at Yin Panpan, her eyes cold.

This Yin Qing insulted her deceased father and attempted to harm them...

Yin Panpan couldn't contain her anger. She rushed forward, fiercely slapping Yin Qing's face multiple times.

"If it wasn't for President Ou, me and my mother would have been humiliated today! You dare not kneel?!"

"I won't kneel to you! What can you do to me?"

  Chapter 10: Preparation

"Then I'll thank my cousin for her generosity. Next time, I'll definitely serve you tea and prepare a gift as well, how about that?"

"Sounds good, sounds good. I heard from Second Cousin that there's a new chef at Changchun who specializes in cooking excellent Jiangnan dishes. You can invite me there for a meal and that'll be your thank-you gift, how about that?"

"Deal."

Watching the mischievous look in front of her, Bai Siruo seemed to be reacquainted with this cousin she didn't interact with much in daily life.

In the past, Feng Jinyao always appeared obedient and taciturn, not fond of speaking at banquets and didn't like to stand out. Her straightforward temperament didn't match with Bai Siruo's, so even though they were blood relatives, they weren't very familiar with each other.

Today, however, she brightened up Bai Siruo's eyes a bit, and Bai family members were naturally pleased to see the two young girls getting along.

On the other hand, Shen Shi, heard her daughter's words and felt somewhat dissatisfied. She pushed her daughter, Bai Sihan, who was standing next to her, with her elbow, but unfortunately Bai Sihan seemed lost in thought and didn't know what she was thinking.

Unwilling to let her daughter be left behind, Shen Shi decided to retort.

But before she could speak, the maid outside came in and said that breakfast was ready, and Master Xiang and the three young masters were waiting in the hall.

So everyone got up, and Bai Siruo and Feng Jinyao supported Madam Bai on either side, heading towards the hall.

After breakfast, Madam Bai was escorted back to Shou'an Courtyard by Shen Shi and Princess Wen Yi to rest. There were many guests today, and it was necessary for her to rest well to maintain her strength.

Meanwhile, the younger generation followed Bai Lin, the eldest lady, and busied themselves.

The maidservants were in the inner courtyard, while the young male servants were in the outer courtyard, shuttling back and forth between the two places in an orderly manner. Although they couldn't speak loudly, everyone had a smile on their faces.

Today's guests were all important, so they couldn't be treated lightly at all.

Bai Lin, the eldest lady, had arranged everything properly half a month ago.

The arrangements for tables, chairs, utensils, dishes, and daily necessities for the banquet were all taken care of by Bai Lin.

The food and wine were managed by Chef Xu.

The seating arrangements for the guests were discussed by the two sisters-in-law. The responsibility of entertaining and persuading guests fell on Feng Jinlin's shoulders during the banquet.

"Aunt, rest assured, I'll make sure everyone has a good time and leaves happy today!" Feng Jinlin assured, and Bai Lin, felt relieved.

There weren't many children in the family, and the eldest, Feng Jinxu, had a steady and upright personality, so it was best to leave such lively affairs to Feng Jinlin.

After that, she instructed Feng Jinyao and the others.

"The women's banquet today will be held in Qinxian Courtyard. Everything is arranged properly, but since there will be many ladies and young misses coming, make sure to gather together more often on weekdays and have a good time. Remember, the Zhang family from the Ministry of Justice and the Wang family from the Yingtian Mansion had a conflict recently, don't let them bring trouble here, understand?"

"Aunt, don't worry, with me here, nothing will go wrong." Bai Siruo assured, and Bai Lin nodded in relief.

Then, she took the three sisters to Qinxian Courtyard.

The courtyard was quite large, with pavilions, towers, small bridges, and flowing water, both grand and delicate.

Although it was winter and there wasn't much scenery to see, Bai Lin was a resourceful person.

She had previously ordered many delicate lanterns to be made, hanging them on the bare branches, with some lantern riddles attached to them. In the courtyard, there was a sandalwood table with many delicate and exquisite items on top, all gifts corresponding to the lantern riddles.

This way, the women had something fun to do, and their gossiping minds naturally subsided.

"Auntie is so capable."

Feng Jinyao praised sincerely from her heart, while Bai Sihan picked up something from the table, glanced at it and curled her lips, showing no interest. But out of respect for the elders, she didn't dare to say anything.

Bai Lin, didn't like the Bai Sanfu family very much, but over the years, they had never neglected any gifts or visits during festivals or family gatherings. She didn't know how she had offended Shen Shi and her 'precious' daughter.

One always had something sour to say to stimulate others, and the other was always acting indifferent, disdainful of everything.

If it weren't for her mother's birthday, she would have to deal with this mother and daughter pair aggressively, and she would tolerate their arrogance here.

Too lazy to pay attention to Bai Sihan's behavior, she instructed Feng Jinyao and the others after a few words and went to greet the guests in the outer courtyard with her personal maid.

Bai Sihan was naturally charming, with a natural charm and a delicate appearance, blending the two qualities very cleverly. Even standing next to Bai Siruo, who had royal blood, she didn't fall behind.

Charming and alluring.

Bai Siruo didn't like this cousin, so she made an excuse to leave with Feng Jinyao from here.

On the other hand, Bai Sihan, who was standing aside, didn't rush to follow. Instead, she asked someone to find a guqin.

In the pavilion of Qinxian Courtyard, with incense burning the guqin played by her fingertips seemed to have spirituality. A rendition of 'Spring River Flowers and Moonlit Night' was performed superbly, and even Feng Jinyao, listening from behind a half-wall, felt it was quite good.

Feng Jinyao held a cup of hot tea in her hand, dispelling some of the chill. As she listened to the music played repeatedly, the displeasure she had hidden in her heart was all revealed on her face.

"What are you showing off for! Today is Grandmother's birthday, and you still want to steal the spotlight?" Then she slammed the teacup heavily on the table, splashing hot tea on the back of her hand, but she didn't even notice.

She was a straightforward person who didn't hide her feelings. Thinking of the 'good sisters' she had befriended in her previous life, who were all smiling in front of others but had venomous hearts behind their backs, she couldn't help but feel sorry for Bai Sihan, who was straightforward.

"Why is Cousin so angry? Is it because your excellent guqin skills were praised by Fourth Uncle?" With one sentence, Bai Siruo revealed Bai Sihan's thoughts. She blushed for a moment but then admitted it frankly.

"Father said that I'm over sixteen and don't have any outstanding skills, while this cousin, although she grew up in Qiongzhou, behaves more like a legitimate daughter of a noble family in the Eastern Capital in everything she does. Since he likes her so much, he might as well take her as a daughter and give me some freedom."

The disappointment and unwillingness in her eyes were fully revealed, a stubborn expression of a young girl, which made Feng Jinyao feel a little sorry for her.

"Cousin really doesn't have any outstanding skills? I heard from Second Brother that you're very good at archery, even better than him in accuracy. Unfortunately, Fourth Uncle and Fourth Aunt keep a close eye on you, otherwise, your talent in archery might be even better than Second Brother's."

"What's the use of that? Father always forces me to study and Mother sends a tutor to teach me manners every day, as if they want to turn me into another Wei Lanxuan before they're satisfied."

Bai Sihan looked weary, and talking about these things stirred up her frustrations again.

Wei Lanxuan, the eldest granddaughter of the Wei State Duke, was the legitimate granddaughter of the Wei Empress, and she had always been a well-known noblewoman in the Eastern Capital. Therefore, Bai Siruo always felt like a dwarf in front of her.

Now, there was another Bai Sihan, how could she not be angry!

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 158: Tang Rou's Scheme

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 157: Granny Ye Pays a Visit

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Chapter 613: Treasuring His Beloved Wife

Hou Yunjiao casually glanced sideways and saw the figure standing outside the sunroom.

He stood up, straightened his clothes, and bent down to ruffle Qin Ruan's hair.

He leaned close to Qin Ruan's ear, his sexy and deep voice sounding slowly, echoing her previous words.

"Having a doting wife is like possessing a treasure. How could I get close to other girls again when I have you?"

His voice drifted into Qin Ruan's ears, sending shivers down her spine.

Even the fingers resting by her side trembled.

She felt as if she had been electrocuted.

This man was too unfair!

He was flirting with her!

And he was doing it openly and directly, making her flustered.

Qin Ruan took a deep breath, not wanting to be passive like this. She prepared to counter-attack Hou Yunjiao.

However, when she looked up, she saw Hou Yunjiao's handsome and unparalleled face, his deep and exquisite features, and his immaculate appearance, which fell into her eyes.

He stood calmly in front of her, exuding an aura of nobility and elegance, truly a refined and noble young master.

There was no trace of the tenderness and charm he had displayed when flirting.

Qin Ruan suddenly felt like a deflated balloon, unable to say a word.

Huo Yunjiao smiled reassuringly, "Don't be angry, be good."

"I'm not angry, just don't do this again next time," Qin Ruan's tone was cold.

There was no need to be angry.

It was just that he kept flirting with her, making her uncomfortable.

It wasn't a psychological discomfort, but a physical one.

She was currently in her pregnancy period, and her mood was unpredictable, often falling into irritability and occasionally having whimsical thoughts.

Sometimes, she would wake up in the middle of the night with a sense of emptiness.

Seeing Hou Yunjiao lying next to her would somewhat soothe her.

Just now, it seemed like she felt that same sense of emptiness that she usually experienced when waking up at night.

Her bad mood surged up, wanting to throw a tantrum and be unreasonable.

Qin Ruan lowered her eyes, her brow slightly furrowed, and her face filled with an indescribable sense of frustration.

Hou Yunjiao noticed her unusual expression and guessed that this girl seemed to be really angry.

His plan to leave was also delayed.

He raised his hand and made a gesture to Hou Chuan, who was standing outside the sunroom.

The latter nodded lightly and turned to stand outside the door with his back to the sunroom.

Hou Yunjiao sat beside Qin Ruan again and asked with concern, "You don't look too good. Are you really angry, or are you feeling unwell?"

Qin Ruan shook her head, "I'm not angry."

She wasn't lying; she really wasn't angry.

Not angry, so is she feeling unwell?

Hou Yunjiao picked up the phone on the table and called Huo Chuan, who was outside the room.

As the call connected, he said in a deep voice, "My wife is feeling unwell. Arrange for the doctor to come over."

After speaking, he hung up the phone efficiently, without giving Qin Ruan a chance to stop him.

She opened her mouth but helplessly said, "I'm fine. It's just that I can't control my emotions well and have some strange dreams at night. I often wake up in the middle of the night feeling empty."

The doctor arrived quickly since Hou Chuan's speed was swift. In just a few minutes, Dr. Chen had been summoned to the room.

Dr. Chen was part of the Hou family's medical team and had always been the attending physician of Hou Yunjiao.

This time, when Qin Ruan and Hou Yunjiao came to Xiangxi Manor, Dr. Chen and the medical team also came along.

Dr. Chen entered the room and saw the couple cuddling together on the sofa.

He unconsciously stepped lightly, making no noise, but the slight movement still startled Qin Ruan, who was nestled in Huo Yunjiao's arms.

She opened her eyes, looking drowsy.

Dr. Chen stood in place and greeted them, "Third Young Master, Madam."

Hou Yunjiao's tone was not gentle, carrying a somewhat commanding tone, "Come and take a look, my wife is feeling unwell."

Dr. Chen's footsteps quickened, and he walked up to Qin Ruan.

He stared at her abdomen with nervousness, carefully inquiring, "Madam, where exactly do you feel uncomfortable? How is your appetite recently, and what food do you prefer?"

"The child is doing well. They are very active, and my appetite is normal. I haven't experienced any morning sickness lately."

Qin Ruan answered each of his questions.

Dr. Chen did a brief examination and showed surprise and some uncertainty in his eyes.

He looked at Hou Yunjiao, wanting to say something but hesitating.

Hou Yunjiao's lips tightened slightly, and he turned around to leave, showing no attachment.

Downstairs.

Dr. Chen saw the person coming down the stairs and immediately approached, "Third Young Master."

Hou Yunjiao stood before him, his brows showing a hint of coldness, emanating an aura of strangers stay away.

"Tell me, what's the matter with my wife?" Hou Yunjiao's oppressive presence made Dr. Chen uneasy, and he loosened his collar uneasily.

He cautiously glanced at Hou Yunjiao and asked in a low, clear voice, "Third Young Master, have you and Madam not been intimate for a long time?"

Saying this, he took two steps back.

This was an act of self-preservation, making subconscious movements to protect himself.

Hou Yunjiao's eyes slightly widened, and the oppressive aura that enveloped him dissipated.

He asked, "Is this related to Madam's current condition?"

His tone also became much gentler.

Dr. Chen nodded and spoke in a low voice, "Third Young Master, even during pregnancy, some needs are necessary. During pregnancy, a woman's hormones undergo significant changes, with estrogen increasing a thousandfold, and progesterone levels also rise. The intensity of certain needs is closely related to the estrogen levels in the body. So, during pregnancy, there's no need to restrain oneself; it's perfectly fine to have appropriate intimate moments."

After finishing this speech, Dr. Chen did not dare to raise his head.

He never expected that he would be so concerned about the main family.

No one could have foreseen this situation.

However, in comparison to Dr. Chen's embarrassment, Huo Yunjiao looked warm and composed, displaying the good temperament of a noble young master.

It seemed that the person who had just been momentarily stunned was not him.

Chapter 612: Qin Ruan Bullied by Third Young Master, Acting All Cutesy!

Hou Yunjiao sat in the sunroom, his eyes slightly closed, calmly gazing at the green plants in front of him.

His flawless and exquisite face showed a contemplative expression, and no one knew what he was thinking.

Outside the room.

Qin Ruan reached out and touched the glass door in front of her, tracing the figure of the person inside with her fingertips.

As if sensing her presence, Hou Yunjiao suddenly turned his head.

A pair of cold and profound eyes met a complex gaze shrouded in mist.

Their gazes collided in the void.

Hou Yunjiao softened the coldness in his eyes, and in an instant, it melted like ice and snow, gently looking at Qin Ruan.

He beckoned to the person outside the door, with a soft arc at the corner of his lips.

Under the sunlight, Hou Yunjiao looked so perfect that it made people dizzy.

Qin Ruan's expression changed slightly, and she slowly lowered her gaze.

She pushed open the door and walked in with steady steps.

Looking at the approaching person, Huo Yunjiao knowingly asked, "Is everything resolved?"

Qin Ruan's presence here was enough to show that things were handled well.

When she returned, Hou Chuan had already reported to Hou Yunjiao about what happened.

He informed Hou Yunjiao about everything, including the details of how Qin Ruan intimidated the dark guards of the Punishment Hall.

Qin Ruan walked to Hou Yunjiao's side and sat down beside him.

She rested her head on the man's shoulder, the movement natural and skillful, as if she did it often.

Qin Ruan's nose twitched, detecting a faint scent of blood on Hou Yunjiao.

Her eyes covered with misty coldness revealed a touch of chill.

This man was spitting blood again.

Qin Ruan reached out and held Huo Yunjiao's hand, their fingers interlocking.

She used her remaining psychic power to transmit some of it to him through their joined hands.

Hou Yunjiao lowered his eyes, the gentle gaze fixed on Qin Ruan's expressionless face.

His eyes were as deep as the sea, and a momentary sharpness flashed in the depths of his pupils, but it didn't affect his elegance and nobility.

Qin Ruan exuded an aura of resentment; she was not in a good mood.

Hou Yunjiao pursed his lips, his gaze heavy.

He touched Qin Ruan's hair, feeling the comfort coming from her hand.

He knew that Qin Ruan was once again wasting some kind of power to regulate his body.

"Not happy?"

The inquiring voice came from above, interrupting Qin Ruan's thoughts.

Indeed, she was not happy.

Hou Yunjiao's body was unstable, and the child was about to be born.

He lacked killing intent, and she felt a bit anxious.

Not hearing Qin Ruan's response, Hou Yunjiao misunderstood.

He embraced Qin Ruan and closed the distance between them.

Their bodies were close, and through the fabric of their clothes, they could clearly hear each other's heartbeat.

Hou Yunjiao lowered his head and gently kissed her lips.

Their lips met, and neither of them moved.

Seeing that Qin Ruan had calmed down, Hou Yunjiao gently stroked the back of her neck, feeling the warmth different from his coolness.

Qin Ruan's eyelashes trembled, looking up at him.

In her startled gaze, there was a trace of obedience that evoked pity.

The next moment, laughter erupted from their lips.

The laughter was joyful, filled with contentment.

Hou Yunjiao backed away, his fingertips lightly touching Qin Ruan's pale lips.

He lazily leaned back in the sofa, and the laughter didn't stop.

He had long noticed that Qin Ruan seemed unable to resist his closeness.

Every time she wanted to throw a little tantrum, his affectionate gestures would instantly pacify her.

Hou Yunjiao's index finger was still lightly caressing Qin Ruan's lips, the action teasing and ambiguous, with an indescribable meaning.

Of course, if you ignored Hou Yunjiao's laughter, the two of them might really reach a level of physical and emotional communication.

His laughter was too disruptive to the atmosphere.

"No laughing!"

Qin Ruan was getting a headache from his laughter, and her face flushed with embarrassment.

This man was too much of a bully.

And his laughter was too unfair!

Seeing that Qin Ruan was about to get angry again, Hou Yunjiao's laughter subsided.

He held Qin Ruan's little hand and spoke seriously, "Ruan Ruan, you will take over the Punishment Hall. You are intelligent and know what you want."

Hou Yunjiao's face was composed and confident as he spoke.

Meeting his deep and affectionate gaze, Qin Ruan's annoyance gradually dissipated.

Hou Yunjiao's long eyelashes blinked, making Qin Ruan a little dazed.

Being good-looking really could easily make people forgive you.

Qin Ruan pouted, feeling disdainful of herself.

She adjusted her slightly disorganized breathing and gently rubbed the Buddhist beads on Hou Yunjiao's wrist with her fingertips.

She didn't deny what he said but instead advised with a hint of uncertainty, "Are you so sure I will take over the Punishment Hall?"

She let go of Hou Yunjiao's hand, straightened her posture, and created some distance between them.

The intimacy they had just now disappeared.

Hou Yunjiao remained as calm and elegant as ever, with a sense of restraint in his movements.

He didn't mind Qin Ruan's little temper but instead pulled her back into his embrace.

When Qin Ruan was about to struggle to get away, Hou Yunjiao lowered his head and kissed her lips.

Their lips met, and neither of them moved.

Seeing that Qin Ruan had softened, Hou Yunjiao reached out and lightly touched her neck, smelling her scent.

He gently teased, "You have a lot of jealousy, huh? Let me smell, is Ruan Ruan jealous today?"

Qin Ruan was going to push him away, but Hou Yunjiao preemptively retreated.

She stared at the man in front of her with a fierce expression, "Where does the jealousy come from? Could it be that Third Young Master knocked over a vinegar jar and got stained by it?"

Qin Ruan acted all cutesy and angry, a sight that softened Hou Yunjiao's heart.

He smiled, his peach blossom eyes half-closed, and he looked lazy and luxurious.