ã€ŠSubstitute Bride to the Crippled Billionaireã€‹


 Chapter 1 Threat

    <h4>Chapter 1: Chapter 1 Threat</h4>

    Su Qingnuan gripped Lin An''s pocket watch tightly, and after a long time, summoned the courage to speak.

    "I refuse."

    "What?"

    The two people in the room froze in ce, staring at her in disbelief.

    A sharp p shattered the oppressive silence.

    Su Qingnuan''s face was pped to the side, the exposed skin rapidly swelling and turning red as waves of burning pain surged through her.

    "Are you really going to stand by and watch your sister die! The Fu family''s wealth and glory could sustain us for generations¡ªwhat exactly are you dissatisfied with?"

    Su Yuerou stared at her usually timid older sister, utterly incredulous. Her frail figure wavered twice, and just before copsing, Jiang Liyun hurriedly caught her in her arms.

    Seeing her younger daughter''s face turn ashen, Jiang Liyun shot a venomous re at Su Qingnuan. The stress and anxiety of the past days had brought a cluster of painful ulcers to her lips, making her appearance particrly terrifying.

    Three days ago, a message hade from the patriarch of the Fu family, offering Su Yuerou in marriage to Fu Yihan, their sole legitimate heir.

    The heavens had granted a golden opportunity, and Su Xiong agreed without a second thought. However, discontent erupted yesterday when Su Yuerou caused a scene, trying to swallow a handful of sleeping pills while crying out that Fu Yihan was a cripple¡ªnot onlyme but notorious for being heartless and cruel.

    If she hadn''t used illness as an excuse to take refuge in the hospital, her Yuerou would have been forcibly taken away!

    Thinking of this, Jiang Liyun shuddered deeply, instinctively tightening her hold on her daughter.

    "Sweetheart, don''t be afraid, don''t be afraid. I won''t let them marry you off to that ugly, crippled Fu Yihan. You mustn''t do anything rash."

    Su Yuerou, consumed by hopelessness, cast a pleading gaze at her sister...

    "I won''t marry into the Fu family for you. This has nothing to do with money."

    Su Qingnuan remained unmoved. After her mother had struck her harshly, her mouth tasted of blood. She wanted to let out a mockingugh but was cut off midway.

    "Shut up!"

    "What did I say that was wrong? From the day I was born, I''ve only ever received whatever scraps Su Yuerou didn''t want! You''ve poured all your care and attention into her, as if I weren''t your daughter¡ªas if I were just some stray cat or dog you could toss aside whenever you pleased..."

    Smack! Another pnded heavily, this time on Su Qingnuan''s right cheek.

    "I''ve raised you all these years, and that''s how you see me, Su Qingnuan!"

    "This is thest time I''ll ask you¡ªare you going to marry or not?" Jiang Liyun''s patience had reached its breaking point, and her final question was almost bitten out through clenched teeth.

    "Sister, please listen to me." Before she could answer, Su Yuerou suddenly interrupted: "Actually, I don''t want to marry Fu Yihan either, and there''s another reason."

    She gently ced her hand over her abdomen, her gaze growing resolute.

    "I''m already carrying Lin An''s child... He promised he would marry me, and I originally nned to dy things a little longer. But the Fu family has made it clear¡ªthey''ll take me away tonight."

    Su Yuerou nced nervously at the stunned Su Qingnuan before continuing hesitantly: "I had no choice but to resort to this n."

    Su Qingnuan fell silent the moment Shen Lin''an''s name was mentioned. Her fingers abruptly ckened, and the warm pocket watch slipped from her grasp.

    Just like her heart... plunging suddenly into the abyss.

    To the side, Jiang Liyun continued to fuss over Su Yuerou, affectionate and concerned¡ªa stark contrast to the violence she had shown moments earlier during the p.

    Watching them, Su Qingnuan''s vision blurred, and she suddenly clutched her chest tightly with both hands, her trembling fingers betraying her increasinglybored breathing.

    In her struggle, she kicked over a teapot, jolting the other two upants of the room back to their senses as they frantically called for a doctor.

    Su Qingnuan stretched her hand outward, as if seeking onest plea from Jiang Liyun. But her consciousness wavered¡ªone moment clear, the next foggy¡ªbefore she finally slipped into a silent void.

 Chapter 2 Sending Off the Package

    <h4>Chapter 2: Chapter 2 Sending Off the Package</h4>

    The Fu family bodyguards stood straight by the car, and seeing Jiang Liyun helping someone out, they silently made a gesture. Immediately, someone stepped forward and helped the girl into the car.

    After the car drove for a while, Su Qingnuan slowly opened her eyes, hovering between half-conscious and half-awake, vaguely taking in her surroundings.

    What came into view was a standalone vi, situated mid-way on a winding mountain road, steeped in the essence of time¡ªsilent yet solemn. She wasn''t in the hospital? How did she end up at... the Fu Residence?

    The gates stood wide open. ck-suited bodyguards lined up in two orderly rows, with the butler at the forefront, politely watching as the car gradually came to a stop.

    Su Qingnuan staggered as she was pulled off the car by a bodyguard.

    Her body still carried remnants of medication. Her legs felt weak and, unprepared, she fell onto something soft.

    "Young Master!!!"

    The Fu family butler eximed in shock, staring as the new bride''s hands blindly groped at the young master''s legs, struggling to crawl up from his body.

    Disastrous!

    "Get away!"

    Su Qingnuan''s hands had barely touched a hard surface when a low and suppressed male voice sounded next to her ear.

    The next moment, her entire body was violently thrown aside, crashing heavily onto the ground.

    A sharp wave of pain surged through her. She struggled to open her eyes, only to meet the man''s disgusted gaze.

    Despite being seated in a wheelchair, the man in front of her exuded an overpowering sense of intimidation. His sharply defined brows carried an ominous chill, and his narrow, slitted eyes locked onto her with a detached coldness.

    It instantly brought to mind the final look a predator gives before it attacks, as if in the next second, one would be left with nothing but shreds...

    With just one nce, Su Qingnuan knew that this was a dangerous man.

    He was Fu Yihan?

    Su Qingnuan frowned deeply, enduring the pain as she slowly struggled upright from the ground.

    Waking up in an unfamiliar ce, the Fu family''s estate emblem, the suspiciously weak state of her body¡ªhad the Su family abandoned her?

    "I''m sorry... I didn''t mean to." She tried to stand up, making an effort to exin her condition.

    "Didn''t mean to? So falling onto men the moment you meet them isn''t intentional? The Su family truly raised a shameless daughter."

    I didn''t... Su Qingnuan muttered futile exnations, trying to evade him, but could only watch helplessly as Fu Yihan closed in.

    "You are Su Yuerou? Weren''t you all over the Shen family''s young master? How could he bear to let you marry here?"

    His words sounded like the murmur of the devil, piercing Su Qingnuan''s already muddled thoughts. She tried to wave her hands defensively: "No, I''m not..."

    "What? Afraid to admit it?" Fu Yihan''s sharp gaze narrowed.

    "I... I''m not..."

    "Hurts!" Before she could react, Su Qingnuan''s neck was suddenly gripped by the angry man''s hand. Her breathing grewbored as she wed desperately at his iron-like grip.

    "Let... go..."

    Fu Yihan watched calmly as the girl''s face flushed red, her breath growing weaker by the second. Her enchanting, almond-shaped eyes fluttered slightly, her face showing the imprint of a p. Tears gleamed in her eyes, one drop at a time cascading down.

    The tears burned against his hand, and his gaze darkened as he slowly loosened his grip.

    Su Qingnuan clutched her neck, gasping for air in desperation. She could feel it¡ªthe man had truly been intent on killing her moments ago.

    Fu Yihan withdrew a handkerchief coldly, wiping each of his fingers with detached precision.

    From his high position in the wheelchair, he coldly looked down at Su Qingnuan.

    "Any woman who marries into the Fu family has to rely on her own abilities to survive, no matter the method. Do you understand?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan trembled all over, hurriedly nodding, but her gaze involuntarily fell towards the wheelchair''s position, seemingly intentional in observing his legs.

    Fu Yihan''s sharp eyes squinted dangerously: "Keep staring, and I''ll dig your eyes out."

    Su Qingnuan frantically shook her head, her nerves firing with searing pain in every inch of her body, leaving her no room to process his threats.

    Yet the man appeared to have lost interest, casting her a cold nce before moving his wheelchair away.

    Only when the sound of his wheelspletely faded did Su Qingnuan bite her lip hard, using the pain to keep herself grounded. Yet the man''s final words still lingered in her ears.

    "Take her to the bedroom."

    Fu Yihan''s cool voice ordered his bodyguards, who acted swiftly, efficiently lifting Su Qingnuan and dragging her forward.

 Chapter 3 - Three: Set in Stone

    <h4>Chapter 3: Chapter Three: Set in Stone</h4>

    A sharp pain rushed through her, and Su Qingnuan abruptly woke from her slumber, only to be greeted by the sound of malicious ridicule ringing in her ears.

    "Still not awake? Sleeps deeper than a dead pig."

    "Could it be that she''s too scared of the young master to get up?"

    The intruder spoke with evident amusement, still dissatisfied, and nted herself firmly on the edge of the bed.

    She clicked her tongue while scanning the room in admiration, then reached out, intending to yank off Su Qingnuan''s nket¡ªonly to freeze when the woman on the bed fixed her with a cold, piercing stare.

    "Miss Su, you''re awake, you''re awake,"

    The maid''s expression shifted slightly as she sprang upright from the bed, stammering anxiously.

    "Who are you?"

    Su Qingnuan slowly sat up, questioning her with a trace of wariness.

    Feeling the lingering sting on her arm, she discreetly rolled up her sleeve. As soon as she glimpsed the wound, she was interrupted by the maid''s rigid words.

    "Madam, I''m Lu Xiaoyang, sent by Mrs. Fu to deliver clothes to Miss Su."

    Lu Xiaoyang hastily unted the gift box, concealing the injury on Su Qingnuan''s arm as tightly as possible.

    She hadn''t expected Su Qingnuan to wake up so quickly. And now, to her dismay, it seemed her impudence had already been caught.

    Lowering her head, frustration flickered briefly in her eyes.

    In the morning light, the borately packaged gift box revealed a strapless ck satin dress lying quietly inside. At just a nce, anyone could discern its exorbitant value.

    Su Qingnuan pushed the box aside, her jade-like fingers lifting the corner of the dress. The bold, hollowed-out design of the chest area was entirely exposed, making her frown fiercely.

    Such "provocative" attire, chosen by a wealthy matron? Could there be some hidden motive behind it?

    "Mrs. Fu?"

    She collected her doubts and began scrutinizing the visitor.

    Her outfit¡ªa ck-and-white maid uniform¡ªboasted a sheen at the hem and a crisp white cor, clearly freshly donned. Her appearance, remarkably striking among her peers, betrayed a sharp eye for presentation.

    But what audacity, for a newly hired maid at the Fu residence, to behave so unruly?

    "Miss Su, if there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave now. There are other tasks waiting for me..."

    Lu Xiaoyang squirmed under her gaze, uttering her words awkwardly, attempting to make a hasty retreat.

    "Stop."

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows tightly, surprised that even as she ordered her to halt, this person quickened her steps.

    Watching as she tried to dash out the door, Su Qingnuan moved swiftly, mming the door shut with a "bang." Turning back around, she demanded.

    "You pinched me and thought you could leave just like that?"

    "You..." Lu Xiaoyang froze on the spot, panic written all over her face.

    "Miss Su, don''t falsely use me! I''m just delivering clothes. If the young master finds out you''ve stirred up trouble on your first day, he''ll surely punish you!"

    Her voice grew louder and bolder, eventually resorting to intimidation as she red at Su Qingnuan.

    After all, wasn''t it well known thatst night the young master had dragged Su Yuerou in like a dead dog, locking her away in the bedroom without exchanging a single word?

    She refused to believe Su Yuerou could actually do anything to her.

    "You''re quite adept at framing yourself as innocent..." Su Qingnuan''s cold smile deepened as she observed Lu Xiaoyang''s performance before finally replying.

    Lu Xiaoyang hadn''t expected this response from her; guilt flickered momentarily in her eyes before she nced away uneasily.

    "I don''t understand what you mean."

    "It doesn''t matter if you don''t. You can repeat these words to the butlerter."

    Emotionless, Su Qingnuan opened the door, roughly rolling up her sleeve to expose the now-bleeding wound. Raising a brow, she said, "If you think I''m afraid of trouble, you''ve miscalcted. Here''s evidence¡ªare you going to tell Butler Fu this injury was self-inflicted?"

    Though a lingering pallor of illness shaded her face, her demeanor exuded sharp authority. "Or do you believe that the Fu family''s rules allow maids to take liberties with their masters?"

    "You can''t do this to me! I was sent by Mrs. Fu¡ªhow could you just disregard that!"

    Lu Xiaoyang iled her arms in a desperate attempt to justify herself, but Su Qingnuan grabbed her by the arm, yanking her out of the room without hesitation.

    "No need for theatrics. You can leave right now."

    Themotion was loud enough to attract attention, and other maids in the Fu household openly gawked at the spectacle of the frail-looking new mistress dragging someone out.

    No one stepped forward to intervene; instead, they covertly relished the drama.

    At this point, Lu Xiaoyang was truly panicked, pleading her case fervently.

    "Miss Su, I didn''t mean to! It was a moment of carelessness."

    She was indeed a neer to the Fu household, introduced under the pretense of being Fu Yihan''s personal maid. But she was dismissed almost immediately upon arrival, leaving her unable to exin herself.

    "Toote."

    "Please, just give me one more chance¡ªI swear I won''t do it again!"

    Su Qingnuan cast her a fleeting nce without offering a reply, but her expression was clearly tainted with derision.

    Breaking into a light sweat, she stopped at the staircase and summoned a male servant. After exining the situation, she instructed him to hand Lu Xiaoyang over to Butler Fu for corrective action.

    Upon hearing this, Lu Xiaoyang burst into tears, copsing onto the floor with a loud wail.

    She was promptly escorted downstairs, caught between two male maids, and directly locked in the basement.

    Once Butler Fu had been briefed and confirmed Su Qingnuan''s directive, a trace of surprise shed through his eyes.

    He turned and entered the study of the Fu residence.

    "Young Master, the Fu family''s various branches have been informed. The master requests that you and your new wife go meet him soon as he has an important announcement to make. Also, Miss Su''s father will return to S City next week¡ªhis benefits have been delivered without missing a single item, and he seemed quite satisfied."

    Butler Fu spoke softly as he ryed thetest updates, handing over a document in the process.

    "Hmm."

    Fu Yihan''s hand as he flipped through the pages didn''t pause in the slightest, signaling the butler to continue.

    "The Su family''s stance is that Miss Su''s life or death no longer concerns them. If she causes you any trouble, they have requested your understanding."

    "Life or death no longer concerns them?"

    Fu Yihan chuckled lightly, full of mockery. Hidden in the shadows, his deep eyes glimmered coldly, betraying no trace of his mood.

    "Onest thing... Miss Su has requested the dismissal of a maid sent from the old house. She ims the maid injured her and then lied about it. The maid is currently in my custody; I''d like to hear your thoughts on the matter."

    Butler Fu sealed the file with a crisp snap, his tone tinged with unmistakable sarcasm.

    The maid, ostensibly dispatched to serve Fu Yihan, had been causing unrest from the start. Butler Fu had been surveilling her for days, intending to expel her¡ªonly for the new madam to take the lead herself.

    "She is clever, isn''t she? Knows how to strike back."

 Chapter 4: After the modification - 4 The Intrigues of the Old Mansion

    <h4>Chapter 4: After the modification: Chapter 4 The Intrigues of the Old Mansion</h4>

    Fu Yihan sneered faintly. Even he had a day when he misjudged someone. Yesterday, Su Yuerou had still been ying the role of a frail little white flower, but today she''d already shed that skin and made her move to establish authority.

    It was just... Was it truly coincidence that she shed with that woman from the old mansion, or did she already know about the family feud and want to curry favor with him?

    "So, what''s the young master''s decision?" Butler Fu asked cautiously.

    "Throw her out directly. This insignificant matter doesn''t need to be reported to me." Fu Yihan sneered coldly. Who cared what kind of act she was putting on¡ªshe was nothing more than a weak woman abandoned by the Su family.

    "Bring her here."

    Fu Yihan casually tossed the invitation into the trashcan and gave his order.

    There was no need for rification; Butler Fu already knew who the young master was referring to and promptly responded, "Madam is still in the bedroom. Shall I bring her over?"

    "Mm."

    "Understood." Butler Fu cradled some documents in one arm and strode away.

    Su Qingnuan''s wedding dress fromst night had been crumpled beyond recognition, so it was obviously unwearable. Instead, she changed into the white gown with rose embellishments that had been delivered earlier, then followed quietly behind the person leading her.

    As soon as she stepped into the room, she obediently greeted him, "Young Master Fu."

    The room was dead silent. No one responded.

    Su Qingnuan''s heart sank. She slowly looked up, only to see Butler Fu giving her a subtle, discouraging shake of his head.

    What did that mean?

    Su Qingnuan figured that the morning''s incident had likely already reached his ears. For a moment, she didn''t dare meet the man''s piercing gaze. She hesitantly asked in a soft voice, "Did you need something from me?"

    "..."

    Fu Yihan''s fingers paused as he tapped the document, his expression full of sarcastic disdain.

    "What an act."

    The words struck Su Qingnuan''s chest like a blow, but she acted as though she hadn''t heard them.

    She''d made up her mind to stay silent, which in Fu Yihan''s eyes tranted to unwillingness to engage with him¡ªshe wouldn''t even look at him, as though he disgusted her.

    His icy voice rang out again,ced with disdain and even more grating to the ears.

    "Come with me to the old mansion. You''d better behave and stop ying your little games¡ªone face in public, another in private. Otherwise, you know the consequences."

    Su Qingnuan suppressed the resentment churning within her and took a deep breath topose herself.

    Beforeing here, she had already decided: No matter what Fu Yihan did, her top priority was to survive. Then, she''d find a chance to reconnect with her former friends.

    The Su family was no longer reliable. Since being sent here, not a single word of inquiry hade from them. By the time a full day and night had passed, Su Qingnuan clenched her teeth and epted the fact that she''d been abandoned.

    But at the very least, she still had other friends...

    If she managed to please Fu Yihan, maybe he''d be willing to let her leave...

    Resolving herself, she suppressed her instinctive fear and was just about to force a smile to curry his favor.

    Butler Fu had already sent someone to prepare the car and was inviting the two of them to board.

    The Fu family mansion wasn''t far, and the car ridested only a short while.

    There weren''t any servants present at the old mansion. Upon arrival, Fu Yihan was wheeled straight into the living room.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated briefly before jogging to catch up.

    The Fu family old mansion typically had even fewer people around. Upon hearing that the young master would be visiting, the few servants who were around had all vanished without a trace.

    At the staircase, in the eerie silence, anguid male voice broke the stillness.

    "Big Brother brought Sister-inw back?"

    Su Qingnuan looked up, gave the speaker a quick once-over, and then immediately lowered her gaze again.

    "Second Young Master."

    Butler Fu''s expression was cold as he stepped forward to shield his young master.

    "Uncle Fu, what''s this about? It''s not like I''m going to eat her up."

    Fu Yixing smirked andzily shifted his gaze toward Su Qingnuan, who stood behind Fu Yihan.

    Noticing that she was quite pretty, he took an extra couple of nces.

    His smile turned suggestive, but his words were venomous.

    "So this is Sister-inw? Why do you look so haggard? Could it be that Big Brother hasn''t been cherishing you properly?"

    Even though Su Qingnuan tried hard to conceal it, her frail health from years of weakness was inly evident, as was the hint of a mistreated air about her.

    But since Fu Yihan was his elder brother, how could Fu Yixing shamelessly overstep boundaries and flirt with his new sister-inw?

    That thought only shed through Su Qingnuan''s mind. She raised her eyes and gave a soft smile, her gaze brimming with tenderness.

    "Yihan and I are fine. I just didn''t sleep wellst night. I''m a little tired."

    "A little tired? That''s fine?"

    Fu Yihan let out a mockingugh, audibly amused. "Oh, Sister-inw, maybe you don''t know¡ªBig Brother''s injuries are quite serious. Let''s just say he''s... not functioning as a man anymore, shall we?"

    Wait, what?

    Su Qingnuan''s smile froze on her face. Subconsciously, her eyes darted toward the man beside her.

    But all she saw on Fu Yihan''s face was an icy frost, devoid of any other emotion.

    As Fu Yixing spoke, he suddenly leaned in, his smile suggestive and teasing.

    "Sister-inw, why don''t youe with me instead? I can show you what it''s like to be a real woman. What do you say?"

    Before she could respond, Fu Yixing reached out to grab her, but in the next instant, his leg was met with a swift, brutal kick¡ªexcruciating pain immediately shot through him.

    He spun around to see Fu Yihan''s icy re locked onto him, the bodyguard behind him retracting his leg expressionlessly.

    "Second Brother, if you''re so fascinated with my woman, why not speak to Grandfather and ask him to arrange a marriage for you?"

    Though Fu Yihan knew full well Fu Yixing was merely trying to provoke him into reacting, the fear in Su Qingnuan''s eyes had made the veins on his left hand bulge. Restricted by his wheelchair, he narrowed his sharp eyes and gestured with a hand.

    The bodyguard maintained a defensive stance, positioning himself between the two parties.

    Fu Yixing got up, dusted off his trousers, and squinted with a look of excitement in his eyes, staring directly at Su Qingnuan behind Fu Yihan.

    "Big Brother, you''re overthinking it. I was just joking."

    He imed it was a joke, but the hunger in his eyes was like a parasite clinging to its host, sending chills down one''s spine.

    Su Qingnuan instinctively shrank behind Fu Yihan, wishing she could disappear entirely. Before realizing it, her trembling fingers had sped the hem of his clothes.

    Fu Yihan, catching a faint whiff of her scent, clenched his hand tightly and, ignoring Fu Yixing entirely, powered his wheelchair forward.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, took half a step forward, then stopped, her gaze following him.

    The next instant, his indifferent voice drifted back, "Noting?"

    She froze momentarily before immediately quickening her pace to catch up.

 Chapter 5: Are We to Give in Without a Fight?

    <h4>Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Are We to Give in Without a Fight?</h4>

    When she reached the second floor, the door to the study suddenly shut, leaving her isted outside.

    Just then, the sound of rhythmic "click-ck" high heels echoed from the staircase.

    Soft, flowing shoulder-length hair framed her face. The high-cored, asymmetrical cheongsam sculpted her graceful figure. Though she appeared to be in her thirties, her skin showed signs of aging. Yet her striking presence and refined beautypensated for the rest.

    As the two met face-to-face, both froze in ce.

    After a moment, the woman gently inquired, "Are you the wife Yihan just married?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze and answered cautiously.

    "Did something unpleasant happen between you two? I could hear the brothers arguing from upstairs."

    The woman''s starry eyes rested on her helplessly, as if certain Su Qingnuan would exin, her tone full of concern.

    "Oh, don''t misunderstand. Yixing is my son. If he''s done something wrong, just tell me directly."

    Su Qingnuan''s brows furrowed slightly. So she was Fu Yixing''s mother? The Fudy who had delivered her the dress earlier in the day must have been referring to this woman.

    Behind the door of the study, the air was heavy with smoke, the bitter scent of cigars lingering throughout the room.

    The Fu patriarch sat elevated, a cigar in hand that hadn''t been extinguished since Fu Yihan entered the room.

    His sharp gaze swept over his grandson, seated rigidly in a wheelchair, carrying an unspoken trace of pain. Unable to bear looking directly, he turned away and sighed to himself.

    After a long silence, he finally spoke regretfully.

    "I told you to marry, but you stormed into the Su family''s home and snatched their daughter. What do you think you''re doing?"

    "I took her because I wanted to. Isn''t this exactly what you had in mind?"

    Fu Yihan flipped through the pages of *Economic Discourse* carelessly, the crisp rustling of paper echoing in the room.

    "Ridiculous!"

    The mes of his anger, briefly suppressed, began to re up again. The Fu patriarch coughed heavily, choking on the smoke caught in his throat.

    Even so, Fu Yihan didn''t spare him a nce.

    Recalling the obedient child who had once been so dutiful, andparing that image to the man before him now, the Fu patriarch''s hand trembled as he held his cigar.

    "You''re growing older. How could I not concern myself with your marriage? That''s why I had someone calcte thepatibility. They said the young Miss Su was a perfect match for you, which led to this arrangement. If you disagree..." He flicked the ash from his cigar and sighed deeply, unable to finish his sentence.

    Fu Yihan''s back stiffened slightly. He had guessed what his grandfather''s next words would be, but his lips curled into a mocking sneer.

    The cold indifference and formidable pride of the Fu family were traits etched deeply into their very bones.

    The Fu patriarch stared intently at his grandson''s rigid back. Momentster, he flung two appointment documents onto the desk.

    Yet, the differencey in the details: one bore Fu Yihan''s name as CEO, the other Fu Yixing''s.

    "Think carefully about what you want to choose."

    Only then did Fu Yihan finally turn his face. As he read the names on the documents, his gaze locked onto his grandfather''s foggy stare with icy precision.

    "The Fu family?"

    A mocking smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he ignored the patriarch''s trembling hand clutching his chest and reached directly for the document bearing his own name.

    "Ever since my mother died in a car ident, this ce has had nothing to do with me."

    Taking the document came with a decision: one that handed over the immense Fu Group to Fu Yixing willingly.

    Feeling the mounting pressure in his chest, the Fu patriarch closed his eyes tightly, pointing angrily toward the door.

    "Then get out of here right now."

    Fu Yihan maneuvered his wheelchair and mmed the door behind him as he left.

    The deafening noise startled Su Qingnuan, who was seated by the doorway.

    She hadn''t expected such an intense argument inside. Under Yun Meifeng''s scrutinizing gaze, she instinctively leaned down to steady the wheelchair, gently offering, "Let me help you downstairs."

    Noticing this scene, Yun Meifeng''s face darkened.

    She hadn''t anticipated the supposedly foolish Miss Su from the rumors to be so attentive.

    Suppressing her thoughts, Yun Meifeng stepped forward to exchange pleasantries.

    "Yihan, how''s your healthtely?"

    Fu Yihan acted as though he hadn''t heard her, his fingers pressing lightly against his eyelids, seemingly resting his eyes.

    Yun Meifeng''s polite smile stiffened on her face as her hands unconsciously clenched tighter.

    "Mom! Why are you bothering with him?"

    Fu Yixing quickened his steps, pulling Yun Meifeng protectively behind him, his expression hovering between disdain and amusement. "Mom''s showing concern for you. What''s big brother''s problem?"

    Upon hearing Fu Yixing speak, Fu Yihan slowly opened his eyes, his fingers tapping coldly against the armrest of the wheelchair as he responded: "The matron of the Fu family is surnamed Lin. Since when did it change to Yun?"

    "You¡ª!"

    He wasn''t wrong. The Fu patriarch had only briefly registered Yun Meifeng as his wife at the time of Fu Yixing''s birth to grant his second son a legitimate status. But the marriage ended merely a monthter.

    Yun Meifeng''s current awkward position in the Fu family''s main residence was one tolerated solely on ount of her giving birth to a son.

    With these words, everyone''s expressions shifted visibly, especially Yun Meifeng''s polite smile, which seemed to copse like a fragile bubble.

 Chapter 6 Youéˆ¥æª™e Not Worthy Yet

    <h4>Chapter 6: Chapter 6 You''re Not Worthy Yet</h4>

    A warmth enveloped her wrist as Yun Meifeng leaned over amicably, smiling faintly at her.

    "The moment I saw you, I felt a sense of familiarity. Surely, this is fate," she said.

    Su Qingnuan discreetly withdrew her hand, offering only a perfunctory smile in response.

    "I suppose so," she replied.

    "Such a pity..." Yun Meifeng sighed, seemingly unintentionally. "The Fu family didn''t even bother to prepare a wedding for you this time. It must have been hard for you to agree to marry into this household..."

    Her seemingly casualment hit straight at the nerve, leaving no room to retaliate.

    In an old-fashioned family like the ones in S City, marriage wasn''t just about matchmaking and ceremonial rituals. The traditions included tea ceremonies, six ceremonial gifts, and ancestral worship, all of which signified a true rite of passage into a new home.

    Someone like Su Qingnuan, who was practically drugged and delivered here directly, was akin to someone in ancient times who engaged in illicit unions without proper arrangements.

    The servants nearby fully understood the implications of Yun Meifeng''s jab. Their expressions turned slightly awkward as they quietly nced at the new bride.

    Su Qingnuan, however, simply pursed her lips into a faint smile and strode briskly back to the man behind her, cing a hand on Fu Yihan''s shoulder.

    She spoke nonchntly, "Aunt, you''re joking. I wanted toe early to familiarize myself with Yihan. Wasn''t it Grandpa Fu who had already sent the bride price to my family long ago?"

    Feeling the man''s back stiffen beneath her touch, Su Qingnuan subtly patted him to signal that he shouldn''t expose her act.

    Then, she blinked innocently and countered, "Besides... Isn''t love what matters? Rites and ceremonies only exist for the sake of appearances. When you divorced, Aunt, you didn''t bother with ceremonies either, did you?"

    The lingering note of her remark reverberated in everyone''s ears.

    Fu Yihan''s sharp brows flickered with a hint of surprise¡ªhe hadn''t expected Su Qingnuan to be capable of this level of insinuation.

    If one ignored her tightly clenched fingers, anyone would have easily believed they were a picture-perfect, loving couple.

    He shielded his mouth with his fist, letting out a light cough.

    Su Qingnuan released a small breath and smiled at him with a trace of nervousness.

    Her studying of the Fu family''s tangled rtionships hadn''t been in vain; only with that preparation did she manage to deliver such a cutting blow.

    Their teamwork was seamless, but in the eyes of those who saw through it, it was far from an ideal harmony.

    Fu Yixing''s coldugh cut through the atmosphere, his sinister gaze sweeping across the two of them. If it weren''t for being in front of the old man''s study, he might have pped Su Qingnuan on the spot.

    ...

    Dining table.

    Since Fu Yihan''s leg injury, he rarely visited the Fu residence. His once-primary seat had been reassigned to the far end of the table.

    Su Qingnuan followed him and sat down beside him. Just as she managed to muster a smile meant to ingratiate herself, the man interrupted her ndly, "I''m not used to eating with others."

    Her fingers stiffened slightly; instinctively, her body shifted farther away.

    In her mind, she quietly wondered: Had she offended him somehow?

    Fu Lao Yezi''s stern gaze swept across the room, momentarily resting on Su Qingnuan''s face. His brows faintly creased as he remarked, "Are you feeling unwell? Why does yourplexion look so poor?"

    Su Qingnuan''s hand tensed and loosened on herp repeatedly before she shook her head. "Apologies, I might have caught a chill yesterday and am not feeling well today."

    "Young people should take care of their health," Fu Lao Yezi admonished, his once-rxed brows furrowing tightly again.

    "Bringing you into the family was so you could properly take care of Yihan. And yet..."

    His sentence trailed off, but the implicit dissatisfaction was unmistakable.

    Suddenly, someone let out a soft, deliberate scoff.

    "I find this curious..."

    Sitting with a graciously elegant posture, Fu Yixing leaned against his chair back. His sharp gaze cut across her face like a de, settling on Su Qingnuan''s pale lips.

    "Is this the same sister-inw Grandpa so meticulously selected? Earlier, I''d heard stories about how versatile Sister-inw is¡ªskilled in fencing, adept at dancing. And yet now that she''s entered the Fu household, she looks like she''s been living off rationed meals for years."

    "Also..." He sneered faintly. "Could it be the information supplied by the Su family was inurate?"

    He didn''t even bother hiding his disdain and mockery. He was clearly waiting for Fu Yihan to defend his little wife¡ªbut Fu Yihan remained indifferent, showing no intention ofing to Su Qingnuan''s aid.

    "What''s going on here?" Fu Lao Yezi''s probing gazended squarely on Su Qingnuan. He didn''t recall the Su family''s daughter having any physical ailments.

    Did the Su family deceive him?

    His prating gaze practically pinned Su Qingnuan in ce. She knew she couldn''t let things continue like this. Though marrying into the Fu family hadn''t been her choice, if things escted further, her situation could turn even grimmer.

    Su Qingnuan shivered and sought help from the unresponsive Fu Yihan, lightly tugging at his sleeve with her baster hand.

    "I can take care of you¡ªtruly..." she said hurriedly, a blush creeping across her pale cheeks like crimson blossoms blooming amidst a snowyndscape¡ªbeautiful and striking.

    Fu Yihan''s gaze lingered on the two faint blushes. Something shifted faintly in his chest.

    "Oh? Is that so?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded anxiously. Afraid he wouldn''t believe her, she rushed to offer multiple examples.

    Though shecked experience in caring for others, she''d had plenty of encounters being cared for. Recalling the actions of various caregivers from her past, she listed these one by one.

    "Wherever you want to go, I can push you there. I can assist you with washing up, serve you meals, and if necessary..." She hesitated, her cheeks burning red like ripened apples.

    But to safely navigate through this ordeal, she gritted her teeth, closed her eyes, and blurted, "...I can even help you bathe."

    Her voice was almost inaudible, but Fu Yihan still caught every word. Startled, he nced at her.

    Noticing his gaze, Su Qingnuan became increasingly embarrassed and flustered. She wished she could disappear into thin air as she stammered, "What¡ªwhat are you looking at?"

    "To stay by my side, you''re certainly willing to go to extremes." His tone carried an ambiguous mix¡ªpart mocking, part contemtive.

    After speaking, he shifted his gaze away without saying anything further.

    Su Qingnuan cautiously sneaked a look at him, unsure whether he was satisfied or dissatisfied. Had she managed to weather this storm?

    Meanwhile, a faint smile tugged at the corners of Fu Yixing''s lips, though his eyes gleamed with an icy intent.

    Fortunately, Fu Lao Yezi finally offered her a lifeline.

    "It''s enough as long as you have the heart for it. Let''s eat." He was pleased with her attitude, as long as she prioritized his grandson above all else. The finer details could be verified in due time.

    "Let''s eat."

 Chapter 7 Communal Bathing

    <h4>Chapter 7: Chapter 7 Communal Bathing</h4>

    Night fell.

    In a bedroom decorated with luxury and warmth, Su Qingnuan kept ncing toward the bathroom, pacing back and forth in the room with an anxious expression.

    The old mansion didn''t have dedicated caregivers, nor did Fu Yihan allow anyone else to enter. It was only because the old master of the Fu family insisted, saying she was enough, that even the servants weren''t arranged¡ªhe simply let Su Qingnuan take care of things herself.

    What should she do? She didn''t even know how to help someone bathe...

    Suddenly, the sound of rushing water from the bathroom ceased, followed by a dull thud of something heavy falling to the ground. Her expression tightened instantly as she dashed into the bathroom.

    "Are you okay? How are you?"

    The bathroom door swung open, revealing the scene within.

    Fu Yihan was half-sitting next to the bathtub,pletely naked. His skin was pale, as if he had been deprived of sunlight for years, with an unhealthy sickly tone, though faint traces of lean muscles still clung to his body.

    It only served to highlight his grotesque and horrifying legs. Covered in scars and disfigured byrge patches of burns from fire¡ªit was as if a demon had imed them, disturbingly terrifying.

    At first nce, Su Qingnuan couldn''t help but be startled, letting out a gasp of shock.

    She quickly caught herself, realizing her reaction was excessive, andposedly turned her head away.

    If looks could kill, Fu Yihan''s re would have obliterated her a thousand times over.

    Su Qingnuan felt a chill rising in her heart. Clenching her palms tightly, the pain grounded her, suppressing her impulse to flee.

    "I-I was just worried about you," she stammered.

    "I don''t need your meddling. Get out this instant!"

    Su Qingnuan didn''t move. Looking at him, even amidst his fury, it was clear that he couldn''t stand up. How could she leave him in this state?

    She took a deep breath, clenched her fists, and¡ªdespite his icy, enraged re¡ªwalked silently over to his side, bending down to help him up.

    "Get away, don''t touch me." Fu Yihan instinctively swatted her hand away.

    In his anger, he didn''t hold back his strength. With a sharp "snap," a vivid red welt instantly marred Su Qingnuan''s delicate jade-white hand.

    Seeing her gasp softly from the pain, Fu Yihan''s icy eyes faltered for a split second. "Do you have a death wish? Should I throw you into the back mountain to feed the wolves, leaving not even your corpse¡ªwould that satisfy you?"

    "You won''t." Su Qingnuan''s voice carried a stubborn edge, her lips pressed tightly as her expression hardened resolutely. "Just treat me as a caregiver. I''m only trying to help you."

    Their gazes locked¡ªhis dark eyes filled with hostility and dominance met her unwavering determination.

    After a long pause, Fu Yihan closed his eyes, seemingly conceding, or perhaps simply tired of quarreling. "Help me up."

    Su Qingnuan finally exhaled in relief and carefully helped him back into the bathtub.

    The warm water enveloped his freezing body, gradually bringing him back to a more normal temperature. Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan, who stood nervously aside, frozen in ce. "Still here? Or are you nning to join me in the bath?"

    His blunt and provocative words, somewhere between teasing and mocking, caused Su Qingnuan''s cheeks to flush instantly.

    "No, I''m just, just..." Unable to hurt his pride, Su Qingnuan dared not admit she was concerned for him. With a stubborn lift of her chin, she stammered, "Anyway, I''m not leaving."

    Fu Yihan shot her a deep look, holding his gaze until her bold front wilted under his scrutiny. Then, with a frosty tone, he said, "In that case,e here and help me bathe."

    "Wh-what?"

    "What? You''re unwilling?" Fu Yihan sneered, his sharp eyes locking onto her face like a hawk. "Didn''t you im you wanted to take care of me? Or are you nning to break your word?"

    Left without a choice, Su Qingnuan swallowed her embarrassment and crouched down beside him. With trembling hands, she reached toward his shoulder, yet in the next second, she recoiled as though shocked by electricity.

    "Keep going." As if oblivious to her flushed cheeks and burning ears, Fu Yihanzily raised his eyelids, urging her indifferently.

    Biting her lip, Su Qingnuan steeled herself and continued.

    The bathroom filled with a hazy mist, broken only by the sound of water and the asional exchanges between the two.

    "Are your hands broken? You don''t even know left from right?"

    "Sorry, I didn''t mean to."

    "..."

    Time passed without anyone keeping track.

    Finally, when the perpetually critical Fu Yihan showed rare mercy and said, "That''s enough," Su Qingnuan felt as though she had been granted absolution, escaping from the strange, suffocating tension between them.

    She waited until he was clothed in a bathrobe before carefully helping him to sit on the bed, like someonepleting a monumental task. Atst, she breathed a sigh of relief.

    But just as she was about to stand up, something unexpected happened.

    In a sudden move, Fu Yihan flipped her onto the bed, pressing her firmly beneath him.

    "What are you doing?"

    His dominating frame made escape impossible, pinning her down. Su Qingnuan''s slender neck was held firmly by hisrge hands¡ªlight enough to allow her to breathe but restricting her movement.

    "Su Yuerou?" He exhaled, his dark eyes no longer cold and detached, but brimming with aggression. "What exactly is your goal?"

    The pointed questioning made Su Qingnuan freeze, her face draining of color.

    Turning her head, she replied softly, "Whether you believe me or not..."

    "I just want to survive in the Fu household."

    Perhaps it was the weight of her grievance that broke her, leaving her entirely motionless, exposing a fragile defenselessness like a cornered animal awaiting the predator''s bite.

    Looking at her like this, Fu Yihan felt something inexplicable stir within him.

    "Then remember what you said today."

    His tone reverted to its usual chill as his fingers drifted away from her neck, his strength shifting as he leaned back into a seated position.

    Su Qingnuan ced a hand on her neck silently, fetched a thin nket, andid it on the chaise longue at the foot of the bed.

    By now, she could tell that Fu Yihan loathed any physical proximity. The act of bathing him had already been a reckless effort on her part; pushing beyond that would truly spell disaster.

    She curled up on the chaise, burying her face in a pillow, unmoving. The intelligent lighting system slowly adjusted to the sounds of the room, dimming in sync with the quiet atmosphere to immerse the space in night''s depth.

    Amid the dead silence, the faint rustle of movement asionally came from the chaise longue.

    Su Qingnuan''s pounding heartbeat urged her forward as she tentatively ced her foot on the carpet. Then, moving with utmost care, she slid off the chaise and slipped out of the room.

    The expansive living room was empty except for the warm glow of muted yellow lights.

    Su Qingnuan nced back cautiously before quickly pulling out her phone to dial a familiar number.

    Her inscrutable expression held steady as the line rang, each beep unanswered until it disconnected automatically.

    Another failed attempt!

    Su Qingnuan''s slender fingers subconsciously tightened around the phone, now gone dark. After a long pause, she exhaled deeply, her face impassive as she swiftly deleted the call log¡ªa gesture so practiced it spoke to repetition.

    Just as she turned, hiding her phone behind her back¡ª

    A sudden presence behind her raised the hairs on her skin in terror.

    "Ah!"

    Clutching at her wildly beating heart, Su Qingnuan whispered in shock, "Why are you here?"

    "The real question is, why are you here?" Fu Yihan retorted, deadpan, leaning on his crutch as he stood behind her.

 Chapter 8 Not Dare to Admit

    <h4>Chapter 8: Chapter 8 Not Dare to Admit</h4>

    The response he got was a bout of silence: "..."

    Fu Yihan looked at her coldly and repeated, "Who were you just on the phone with?"

    "No one, let''s go back." She awkwardly turned her head, muttering vaguely. "I''ll exin it to you slowly. You shouldn''t be standing right now; I''ll help you back."

    As she reached out to him, her hand was abruptly pped away.

    Caught off guard, Su Qingnuan''s arm identally knocked over the teapot on the table, and a searing pain immediately shot through her nerves.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    The all-too-familiar sensation of suffocation washed over her. Clutching her chest, she struggled to breathe. Cold sweat drenched her temple, causing strands of hair to stick to her damp forehead.

    "Help... help me..." Her lips, now tinged with purple, trembled helplessly. The sound she made was faint, almost inaudible.

    The hand she extended froze midair. Before she could fully reach out to him, she copsed heavily to the ground under Fu Yihan''s horrified gaze.

    "Su Yuerou!"

    Emergency room at the hospital.

    Fu Yihan held a stack ofb reports, while the attending physician spread them out, pointing to each piece as he exined.

    "The patient experienced typical left ventricr dysfunction, which led to her difficulty in breathing. She''s probably had the condition for many years. As her family member, you need to be more attentive moving forward."

    The doctor sternly rattled off a list of precautions. Seeing that Fu Yihan was cooperative enough, he vented his frustration.

    "What''s with the traces of sedatives in the patient''s system? If this had progressed any further, her heart would''vepletely failed!"

    "What kind of hospital would dare to be this reckless? Injecting so much at once? That''s insane." He shook his head.

    "Sedatives?" Fu Yihan''s expression darkened. Suddenly, a memory surfaced¡ªhe recalled the scene when "Su Yuerou" had been dragged into the Fu residence by the bodyguards.

    So it started back then?

    After the doctor left, he wheeled himself slowly into the hospital room, his face contemtive.

    A person with a chronic heart condition, and one that has gone untreated for years¡ªhow could she possibly endure such physical strain?

    His slender eyes narrowed as his defined fingers tapped rhythmically on the wheelchair''s armrest. His gaze fixed intently on the unconscious Su Qingnuan lying on the hospital bed, suspicion growing within him.

    If you''re not really "Su Yuerou"...

    "Tell me, who are you¡ªreally?"

    Morning light began to brighten the room, its warm rays streaming through the hospital window. The glow softened Su Qingnuan''s pale, nearly translucent face, enveloping it in a dreamlike aura.

    After a brief moment, her thick, crow-feather-likeshes quivered slightly, and her eyes, closed all night, slowly opened.

    The moment her consciousness returned, she saw Fu Yihan sitting across from her against the light. Perhaps due to fatigue, he was propping his chin up with his hand, leaningzily yet elegantly in the wheelchair with his eyes closed. The usual frost exuding from him had melted away without her noticing, rendering him picturesque, like a work of art.

    "Awake?"

    His voice was deep and husky.

    Su Qingnuan forced a response, tugging at the corners of her mouth ufortably. "Mhm."

    The room fell into silence again, leaving only the sound of their shallow breathing.

    With his fingers lightly tapping the armrest, Fu Yihan studied the woman in front of him with a probing gaze.

    It was as if a dense, dark fog surrounded her entire being. Beneath her refined exterior, the fa?ade of flesh and beauty was no more than an illusion¡ªflowers in a mirror, the moon reflected in water. From head to toe, everything was false.

    What a wife he had married, he mused coldly, his lips curling into a smirk as the thought of her deception struck him.

    "Who are you really? Su Yuerou? Or someone else from the Su family?"

    "What?"

    Su Qingnuan looked up, as though notprehending at first, but her body stiffened violently the moment hisst words registered.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about."

    Sensing something amiss, she avoided the man''s questioning gaze in panic.

    "Still ying dumb?" Fu Yihan sneered. "As far as I know, Su Yuerou loved dancing and physical activities, and she was perfectly healthy, without a single ailment."

    "So, tell me¡ªwho exactly are you?"

    He emphasized the words "perfectly healthy," his toneyered with a hidden implication that made Su Qingnuan''s heart sink instantly.

    Could Fu Yihan already know? But then, why would he still ask her this question? Was he just baiting her into admitting it?

    She bit her lip hard, frantically searching through her mind for a usible exnation, but she couldn''t deny the truth: If Fu Yihan had already started to suspect her, how much longer could she keep this hidden? Besides, even if she could deceive him for the time being, it wasn''t as if she could live the rest of her life under the guise of "Su Yuerou," could she?

    The scales in her heart tipped further.

    "I..." Su Qingnuan hesitated to speak.

    But just as she began to utter a word, Fu Yihan interrupted her.

    "No need to say it."

    He had abruptly changed his mind.

    Fu Yihan smirked. "I do indeed need a Mrs. Fu. And at the very least, your performance has been satisfactory so far, hasn''t it?"

    "No matter who you are, from this day forward, you are to remain the young madam of the Fu family¡ªmy wife, Su Yuerou."

    "Understood?"

    It was as if she had been doused in freezing water; Su Qingnuan felt an unbearable chill seep into her entire being.

    "What... what do you mean?"

    "..."

    Her heart sank deeper and deeper. Frozen in ce, her bright, lively eyes dimmed, robbed of their vitality.

    She had indeed wanted to leave the Fu family ever since stepping into their home. Every moment had felt like a desperate attempt to hold herself together, preventing her copse.

    But now, even that wasn''t allowed. "Your answer?" Fu Yihan pressed.

    With effort, she forced a bitter and despairing smile. "Do I even have a choice?"

    With those words, silence reimed the room.

    After a long while, Fu Yihan''s voice broke the quiet. "In that case, Mrs. Fu, focus on your recovery."

    Her faint "Mhm" in reply was barely audible. He didn''t seem to mind, as he wheeled himself out of the hospital room.

    ...

    Chapter Nine: The Day of Returning Home

    Jianxun Technology Building.

    The air conditioning''s cold breeze hummed through the office, but the young man in a suit was still sweating profusely. He kept fiddling with his tie, shifting ufortably in his seat as if the sofa were riddled with pins, unable to sit still.

    "Has President Fu finished yet?" He had already been waiting for half an hour. Surely this wasn''t just an excuse to dy?

    "I''m sorry, I''m not sure either. Perhaps you could wait a little longer?" Assistant Li offered a polite smile.

    "Alright, I''ll wait."

    He didn''t know how much longer he waited before the meeting room door finally opened. Yi Xuan looked up to see Fu Yihan in his wheelchair, slowly entering.

    "President Fu..." The man leapt up from the sofa and almost rushed over, but stopped abruptly five steps away.

    "You''ve finally finished." Yi Xuan''s eyes brimmed with gratitude and excitement. He quickly straightened himself and extended the prepared documents to him.

    "President Fu, you must help us."

    "Get to the point."

    Fu Yihan frowned, cutting off his lengthy preamble.

    "Uh!" Yi Xuan faltered, his face turning serious as he slowly began, "President Fu, the Fu Group has had cash flow issues for some time now. While we''ve managed to scrape by..."

 Chapter 9 Returning Home

    <h4>Chapter 9: Chapter 9 Returning Home</h4>

    He suppressed the expression on his face and forced himself to continue, "A few days ago, after the second young master became the executive director of the Group, he suddenly said he wanted to invest in some project in the south of the city and diverted all the money there."

    "In just a few days, everyone from Fu Yihan''s old team who tried to oppose him has been dismissed."

    At this point, Yi Xuan was so agitated that he almost wanted to bang his head on the ground, begging for Fu Yihan to return and take charge of the situation.

    If things continue like this... the entire Fu Group will be like a toy in his hands, to be kneaded and shaped at his will.

    "The Fu Group is going to be ruined."

    "So what?"

    Fu Yihan''s sudden rhetorical question instantly left Yi Xuan speechless. He cautiously nced at Fu Yihan and tentatively said, "I''m here this time to ask you to return and protect what''s right."

    "This has nothing to do with me."

    Yi Xuan was taken aback and wanted to say something, but Fu Yihan''s patience had already run out.

    "What you should be looking for now is someone who truly understands, not a former heir who''s already been abandoned, understood?"

    "But..."

    Yi Xuan''s expression changed, and he almost revealed what Mr. Fu had instructed him.

    He was originally sent by the chairman to persuade Mr. Fu to return. The Fu Group''s business touches nearly every industry, so how could it copse easily? He had thought Fu Yihan was justcking a proper reason to return.

    But from the tone, it seemed he himself didn''t want toe back!

    Assistant Li, standing nearby, really wanted to help the man, but as his boss wheeled himself away, he could only follow with a bitter expression.

    After moving far away from the conference room and finding themselves alone, Assistant Li finally asked the question he''d been holding back for a long time.

    "Boss, this is obviously a great opportunity. Why are you unwilling to return?"

    "Return for what?" Fu Yihan''s eyebrows didn''t even twitch. What might be a sought-after opportunity for others was, to him, nothing but a burdensome hot potato.

    Moreover¡ª

    The current mess, with no one to clean up, most likely was just a smokescreen put out by the old man to test him.

    Thinking of this, Fu Yihan''s lips curled into a mocking smile, and he instructed, "I remember the Fu Group recently has a coboration with the Lishi Group, which Fu Yixing is in charge of. Go make some trouble for them."

    Reciprocity is a virtue. The old man recuperating at home is still causing trouble. It might be better if something really happened, so he''d be too busy to keep pushing the Fu Group onto me again and again.

    Assistant Li, who had been dejected, suddenly felt invigorated upon hearing this.

    "I''ll get on it right away."

    As soon as he finished speaking, he rushed out enthusiastically but was abruptly stopped at the door.

    "Wait."

    "Boss, is there anything else you''d like me to do?"

    The image of her shed before Fu Yihan''s eyes, his fingers stiffened slightly, and after a long while, he finally asked, "How is Madam doing?"

    Assistant Li shook his head, "Physically she''s fine, but mentally a bit worn-out. Maybe she''s homesick, and also today..."

    He cast a cautious nce at Fu Yihan''s emotionless face, and finally dared to softly remind, "Today is the day Madam is supposed to visit her parents, you..."

    "Alright, I know." Fu Yihan nodded, casually spreading out the reports in his hand.

    From his demeanour, the assistant knew he must have forgotten, or perhaps never cared in the first ce, but dared not say more, slowly retreating out.

    Soon the office returned to its pin-drop silence.

    ...

    When the Fu family''s messenger came early in the morning, Jiang Liyun''s face was tinged with a blush and looked slightly dazed.

    Realizing what Su Yuerou was referring to, her unlikable eldest daughter, her expression stiffened.

    The matter of sending a substitute bride was indeed her decision, but with much persuasion, she''d finally coaxed Su Xiong into not making a scene, though he continually sighed at home, even driving Shen Lin''an away when he came over to console him.

    Thankfully, Su Xiong went to thepany today and hasn''t returned.

    But at this moment, Su Qingnuan returned. What if Fu Yihan discovered the truth and refused to let it go?

    Jiang Liyun anxiously called in the servants, now cleaned the vi thoroughly,id down a special pathway for wheelchairs, and patiently stood at the door to wee them.

    By midday, they still hadn''t arrived. The displeased mutter had just started.

    A thin figure flickered at the entrance, slowly appearing before her.

    After a few days, Su Qingnuan seemed even thinner, her once barely radiant skin now dull and lifeless, d only in a simple cotton blouse and ck pants from home, not a single piece of jewelry on her.

    There was no one else behind her. Wasn''t Fu Yihan supposed to be here too?

    Jiang Liyun frowned, her forced smile instantly dropping.

    "Why are you alone?"

    Jiang Liyun''s attitude didn''t surprise her, she had long be ustomed and numb to it. Su Qingnuan merely tugged at the corner of her mouth, casually finding an excuse to brush her off.

    "He''s busy, so he won''te today."

    The Fu family''s car still parked behind her, ready to leave as soon as some formalities were exchanged.

    Yet Jiang Liyun seemed intent on not letting her off easily, pursuing her with, "How can youe alone? Are you treating our Su family lightly?"

    As soon as she finished speaking, another familiar male voice chimed in, full of malice and mockery, as Shen Lin''an sped his hands watching her from the bottom of the steps.

    "Busy or simply dismissive of you?"

    Looking towards the voice, Su Qingnuan saw Shen Lin''an openly draping his arm over Su Yuerou''s shoulder, their stance intimate. As he sensed her gaze, he seemed unfazed, returning a ridiculeden smirk.

    She opened her mouth, the words "long time no see" stuck in her throat.

    Hearing was one thing, but seeing her sister with the person she liked was all the more impactful.

    Her frail body involuntarily swayed a couple of times as if struggling to stand, leaning against the wall for support.

    Seeing this, Shen Lin''an''s eyes filled with even more disdain, convinced she was still pretending.

    Not only was she not the pure and kind person he imagined, but greedy and scheming, willing to seize her sister''s engagement to climb the socialdder. Her actions made him nauseous.

    He coldly stared at Su Qingnuan, his words bitter and malicious, spewing like poison from his mouth.

    "What''s wrong? Cat got your tongue? Or perhaps the Fu family doesn''t have money anymore, and you still cherish wearing the Su family''s old clothes?"

    So that''s what he thinks...

    The heavy words weighed on Su Qingnuan, barely able to breathe.

    She turned her head away in embarrassment, but behind Shen Lin''an, Su Yuerou winked at him yfully, "Congrattions to sister for achieving what she wanted; you must be very happy now?"

    Achieving what she wanted?

    Who exactly achieved what they wanted?

    Su Qingnuan lowered her eyes, letting out a sneer, an unspeakable irony in her gaze.

    Seeing her ''high posture,'' Su Yuerou''s eyes darkened. Before she could utter a word, Shen Lin''an couldn''t bear it anymore, sneered and taunted, "Heh! You''ve climbed up the socialdder and don''t even regard us."

    She had barely finished speaking when a low, icy male voice sounded from the doorway.

    "Isn''t it natural to disregard you?"

 Chapter 10 Taking Revenge for You

    <h4>Chapter 10: Chapter 10 Taking Revenge for You</h4>

    Fu Yihan sat in the wheelchair with a cold, arrogant demeanor, followed by more than a dozen burly bodyguards in ck suits, their bloodthirsty aura suffocating.

    Yet even so, it couldn''t suppress Fu Yihan''s sharp presence; instead, it only entuated him further, like an emperor on a high pedestal surrounded by admirers¡ªjust one nce, and no one could look away.

    Amid the silence of the room, he didn''t even spare a nce at the grim-faced Shen Lin''an nor at Su Yuerou whose eyes were filled with astonishment.

    Instead, he casually lifted his chin at Su Qingnuan. "Come here."

    "Me?" Su Qingnuan instinctively pointed at herself.

    "If not you, then who else?"

    Su Qingnuan suppressed her shock and hurried over to him.

    "You¡ªyou... why are you here?"

    "Why? You don''t want me here?" Fu Yihan raised a brow and countered.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. She couldn''t quite decipher her own emotions at the moment, but being surrounded by malicious intent so suffocating she could hardly breathe¡ªhis appearance was like a deity descending from the heavens to rescue her.

    At the end of the day, it was joy...

    Shen Lin''an watched helplessly as she ran over and nestled herself beside another man. Rage burned quietly within him.

    But before he could speak, Jiang Liyun, noticing the sudden change in situation, signaled to the servants. Immediately, the maids gathered to escort Shen Lin''an out to the living room.

    As his figure disappeared around the corner, Su Yuerou snapped out of her amazement, walked forward in quick strides, and asked, her eyes alight with curiosity, pointing at Fu Yihan.

    "Sis... who is he? Won''t you introduce us?"

    In her excitement, she identally bumped into Fu Yihan''s wheelchair, hitting it.

    Before she could get up, Fu Yihan''s bodyguards grabbed her and pinned her down.

    "Let go of me! What do you think you''re doing?"

    Her shouting had just begun when she met with Fu Yihan''s cold, lifeless gaze. "Shout one more time, and I''ll have someone rip your mouth off."

    Receiving his disgusted, disdainful nce, Su Yuerou froze entirely, her body stiffening, although she still struggled indignantly.

    She had never suffered such humiliation before, her cheeks turning red with rage.

    "I''m Su Qingnuan, Yuerou''s sister. And who are you? Ordering your bodyguards to act without any justification¡ªisn''t that a bit rude?"

    Su Qingnuan?

    Fu Yihan''s heart stirred at hearing that name, though he did not notice the subtle tremor in the fingers of the woman beside him.

    Su Qingnuan uncharacteristically remained silent, her hands tightening into fists under Su Yuerou''s semi-threatening, semi-pleading gaze.

    "I need to use the restroom."

    She said hurriedly, her departing figure slightly flustered.

    Who would have thought that just as she reached the door, arge hand suddenly extended from inside, forcefully pulling Su Qingnuan in.

    "Ah..."

    She instinctively eximed, only to be mmed against the wall. What followed was the gritted interrogation of a man in a low, furious voice.

    "Su Qingnuan, do you love power so much? So much that you''re willing to sell yourself for it?"

    "It hurts... Let go of me."

    Su Qingnuan struggled to retreat, desperately trying to free herself from the man''s grip, only to be held even tighter.

    Did he really think being drugged and sent to the Fu family had been her choice?

    Or was it that her wonderful sister had whispered something misleading in his ear, turning the once refined Shen Lin''an into this madman?

    Seeing her stay silent, gazing at him with doubtful eyes, Shen Lin''an''s fury intensified. He grabbed her shoulders and shook her violently.

    "Speak!"

    Su Qingnuan closed her eyes briefly, only feeling drained to the core.

    "There''s nothing left for us to talk about."

    She was now Fu Yihan''s wife and would only ever be his wife.

    "What do you mean there''s nothing left to talk about?" Her resignation and cold indifference pierced through Shen Lin''an like a dagger.

    "Is your love so cheap? Was everything in the past just an act? Was it?"

    In the cramped space, the two were already close, their thin garments now rumpled beyond recognition.

    If someone were to see her like this, she''d be ruined.

    In desperation, Su Qingnuan was about to scream out loud when she heard the sound of a wheelchair rolling down the hallway outside.

    Su Qingnuan instantly realized who had arrived. "Fu¡ª"

    "Shut up. Don''t say his name." Shen Lin''an snarled hideously, lowering his head as if intending to silence her cries with his lips.

    As his breath approached her closer and closer, Su Qingnuan''s pupils constricted, instinctively struggling against him.

    Just then, the bathroom door was shattered open violently. A tall, muscr man dragged Shen Lin''an away as though lifting a chicken, throwing him heavily to the ground.

    Apanied by his painful groans, the man proceeded tond a series of punching and kicking blows.

    Fu Yihan issuedmands from his wheelchair, coldly observing the scene without a shred of emotion.

    In the cramped bathroom, the only sounds were the thuds of fists hitting flesh and Shen Lin''an''s harrowing cries of pain. Before long, bruises covered him entirely.

    From the moment the door burst open, Su Qingnuan had darted behind Fu Yihan. She didn''t dare get too close to him but nervously tugged at her clothes to cover herself.

    "Um..." Su Qingnuan swallowed hard and carefully nced at Fu Yihan. "Maybe we should just leave it at that?"

    Although she had decided to let Shen Lin''an go, watching him so pitiful still triggered an ounce of empathy within her from their shared past.

    Fu Yihan turned his piercing gaze on her, sharp enough to prate her soul. "What? You feel sorry for him?" His lips curled into a faint smile that contained no warmth whatsoever.

    Under such a gaze, Su Qingnuan''s timid plea vanished almost instantly.

    Her head shook fervently like a rattle drum, her hands obediently sped behind her back, signaling pure submission.

    A cold snort escaped Fu Yihan''s nose before he redirected his gaze to Shen Lin''an, whoy on the ground resembling a battered dog.

    "A scumbag who dares harass a married woman deserves nothing less than death." Then he tilted his head slightly, his inscrutable eyes locking onto her. "Wouldn''t you agree, my wife?"

    The intimate title, paired with a tone unusually soft, sent chills down Su Qingnuan''s spine rather thanfort.

    She nodded frantically in agreement.

    You''re right¡ªeverything you say is right.

    Fu Yihan finally seemed satisfied andzily ordered his bodyguards. "Why did you stop? Keep going."

    The bodyguards had paused momentarily, distracted by themotion between Fu Yihan and Su Qingnuan. Now, at hismand, they resumed their assault.

    Their sandbag-sized fists rained down on Shen Lin''an like a storm, making him break out into cold sweat from the pain. "You can''t treat me like this! I''m a son of the Shen family. If anything happens to me, they won''t let you off!"

    Fu Yihan showed no interest in his threats, letting out a derisive chuckle instead.

    "The Shen family? Just a broken household patching together scraps of fabric."

    The merciless sarcasm made Shen Lin''an''s face contort in fury.

 Chapter 11 Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 11: Chapter 11 Humiliation</h4>

    Ever since the Shen family rose to prominence, their past was rarely mentioned. Now, being humiliated so openly, the ever-proud Shen Lin''an was on the verge of coughing blood.

    "You''re just going to stand there and watch him humiliate me?" He turned his fury toward the silent Su Qingnuan.

    Predictably, no answer came. The mes of anger within Shen Lin''an instantly surged to their peak, burning away every shred of reason.

    "Fine, excellent. Do you really think this man loves you? Think about the rumors about him. I hope you won''t regret it."

    He bit down hard, each word squeezed from between his clenched teeth.

    Even at this moment, he still resorted to sowing discord. Su Qingnuan felt nothing but deep disappointment. "Of course, I wouldn''t regret it. Compared to someone like you, who impregnates others and still dreams of juggling two women, my husband neither cheats nor treats me poorly. I would have to be blind to regret marrying him."

    Shen Lin''an was shocked that she saw him as so despicable. His face turned green, then purple, then back to green as though it were a palette of misced colors.

    "You..."

    He opened his mouth to say more, but Fu Yihan interrupted impatiently, "Are you trying to seduce my wife right in front of me? Do you think I''m dead?"

    Thinking of Fu Yihan''s ruthless methods, coupled with knowing his own life was still in the man''s hands, Shen Lin''an¨Cthough ready to vomit blood in anger¨Chad no choice but to swallow his words.

    Seeing him submit, Fu Yihan casually lifted his gaze with disinterest and said to the nearby Su Qingnuan, "Let''s go."

    With that, he led the way in his wheelchair toward the living room.

    Su Qingnuan and the bodyguards hurried to follow.

    "They''reing out." Jiang Liyun patted Su Yuerou''s arm and whispered.

    Su Yuerou quickly straightened her clothes and smiled delicately. "Just do as I said."

    Jiang Liyun nodded with a smile.

    As Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan emerged, Su Yuerou rose to her feet, her face glowing with cheer as she gazed at the two.

    "Sis... Sister, today is the day of your homing. It''s rare for us to gather as a family. Mom''s already sent someone to prepare lunch. Why don''t you stay for lunch before you leave?"

    Su Qingnuan stared at her in surprise, but the smile piled on Su Yuerou''s face failed to warm her; instead, it only disgusted her.

    "I''m not used to eating food from other people''s kitchens."

    Before Su Qingnuan could react, her cold voice had already refused their invitation.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan. Her expression was indifferent, her demeanor arrogant.

    "Brother-inw, what kind of talk is that? It''s a rare asion for a homing, and refusing even a meal will surely make othersugh at us, won''t it?"

    Su Yuerou approached Su Qingnuan naturally and looped her arm around her sister''s, smiling lightly. "Besides, it''s been days since I''ve seen my sister. Surely you should let us sisters catch up?"

    Su Qingnuan''s body trembled slightly and hurriedly pushed Su Yuerou away, furrowing her brow as she stepped behind Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan''s narrow eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at Su Yuerou with a faintly mocking smile.

    "She doesn''t seem so eager to catch up with you."

    Su Yuerou''s expression stiffened.

    The rare sisterly affection in her eyes vanished, reced by a warning re directed at Su Qingnuan behind Fu Yihan.

    "Sister, are you really unwilling to speak with me?"

    Su Qingnuan chuckled. "What a thing for you to say. Isn''t it you who made it clear I wasn''t wee here?"

    "What nonsense are you talking about?" Jiang Liyun intervened at the perfect moment, smiling lightly. "You are my daughter; how could I possibly not wee you?"

    She sped Su Qingnuan by the shoulder with a bit of force.

    "A few days ago, someone gifted me some jewelry. Since today is your homing, let''s head upstairs so you can pick a few pieces."

    Su Qingnuan frowned, subtly resisting Jiang Liyun''s grip.

    But her naturally weak constitution made it impossible for her to fight back against Jiang Liyun''s strength.

    She was, helplessly and unwillingly, dragged away.

    Before she left, she caught Fu Yihan''s gaze¡ªit remained as cold and distant as ever, devoid of warmth.

    ...

    Su Yuerou, satisfied, watched the two disappear into the stairwell, her gaze shifting to Fu Yihan.

    "Brother-inw," Su Yuerou cooed with a soft voice, a delicate smile ying on her lips. "Would you like anything to drink? I can prepare it for you."

    "No need."

    Su Yuerou''s movements stalled. Faced with his icy attitude, if it weren''t for that strikingly handsome face drawing her in, she certainly wouldn''t bother forcing a smile here.

    Adjusting her posture, Su Yuerou bent forward slightly.

    "Brother-inw, no need to be so polite. I just wanted..." Her handnded lightly on Fu Yihan''s inner thigh, her smile seductive. "To get to know you better... Ah!"

    Sudden, searing pain jolted through her fingers. Su Yuerou stared at the man in shock.

    The hand she had ced on his thigh was now gripped by one of his fingers, bent back unnaturally.

    His expression was icy, the godlike face exuding a chilling disdain as he stared at her indifferently.

    Su Yuerou''s heart skipped a beat, and she tried to straighten herself.

    "Ahhh!"

    The excruciating pain in her hand yanked her back to reality.

    "Brother-inw!" Tears welled in Su Yuerou''s eyes as she pitifully looked at Fu Yihan. "What are you doing? It hurts!"

    Fu Yihan exerted a bit more force and, with no more than a finger, shoved Su Yuerou away.

    She fell to the ground, her gaze vulnerable as she looked up at him.

    Fu Yihan raised his hand, prompting a nearby bodyguard to offer him a tissue.

    Elegantly, he unfolded the tissue and wiped his fingers.

    Though his clean and fair fingers did not stain the tissue, Fu Yihan still nced at it with disdain. "Filthy."

    Su Yuerou''s expression shifted, her hand gripping the floor as she stood.

    "Brother-inw, you''re crossing the line!"

    Fu Yihan shot her a sidelong nce, his long and narrow eyes brimming with icy contempt.

    Su Yuerou froze and, under the oppressive gaze, swallowed hard. "I was just trying..."

    As she leaned closer, the bodyguards stepped forward.

    "Miss Su, our Eldest Young Master does not appreciate others approaching him. Please step back."

    Their tone was courteous yet absolute, leaving no room for rejection.

    Su Yuerou gritted her teeth, her flirtatious gaze darting between options.

    Meanwhile, the man sitting nearby was cold as ice, immune to her temptations.

    On the other hand, Su Qingnuan was forcefully ushered back into a room by Jiang Liyun.

    The promised jewelry? Hardly.

    Looking at the table littered with cheap, mismatched pieces, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly.

    "Take your pick. Whatever you want, it''s yours," Jiang Liyun said with apparent generosity.

    Su Qingnuan knew Jiang Liyun''s collection included much finer and more valuable jewelry. These scattered trinkets were clearly her scraps, left to amuse herself. The truly precious ones had never been brought out.

    It was clear that, in her eyes, Su Qingnuan would always rank below Su Yuerou.

    Lowering her head, Su Qingnuan replied quietly, "I don''t usually dress up, so these aren''t of much use to me. Mom, I appreciate the gesture."

    With that, Su Qingnuan turned to leave.

    "Wait, wait!" Jiang Liyun seized Su Qingnuan''s arm, uncharacteristically warm. "You rarely visit; leaving empty-handed won''t look good. Just take something."

    Su Qingnuan paused, puzzled, and eyed her suspiciously. "Why the sudden warmth?"

    Jiang Liyun''s expression shifted briefly before forcing a smile. "You''re my daughter. Isn''t it natural to be warm to you?"

    Maybe if this were an ordinary family, it would seem reasonable. But this wasn''t an ordinary family.

    As doubt flickered in her eyes, Su Qingnuan recalled Su Yuerou waiting downstairs and suddenly realized.

    "Are you helping her pursue my husband?" Su Qingnuan asked, incredulous.

    Jiang Liyun chuckled lightly. "Well, he''s certainly my son-inw, but he was supposed to marry Yuerou."

    Su Qingnuan''s pupils constricted as her eyes widened in disbelief.

    "I know you feel wronged," Jiang Liyun continued. "But Fu Yihan is too fierce for you. He''s not suitable. Once they''re married, I''llpensate you. Isn''t Lin''an the one you like? I can..."

    "Enough!"

    Su Qingnuan''s eyes reddened as she red at Jiang Liyun angrily.

    "It was my mistake," she said,ughing ruefully. "I kept hoping you''d realize, one day, that not only is Yuerou your daughter, but so am I. Yet here we are, and you''re still like this!"

    Su Qingnuan reached out and swept the jewelry from the table to the floor.

    "These worthless trinkets¡ªI don''t want them!"

    "Su Qingnuan!" Jiang Liyun fumed. "What do you think you''re doing?"

    Watching her crouch to retrieve the fallen jewelry, Su Qingnuan thought bitterly: perhaps these trinkets mattered more to her mother than she did.

    Clutching her chest tightly, Su Qingnuan felt overwhelmed by the ache inside.

 Chapter 12 Apologizing

    <h4>Chapter 12: Chapter 12 Apologizing</h4>

    If she were to copse here, no one would help her.

    A biased mother, a sister who never takes her seriously, and a father who is hardly ever around.

    Su Qingnuan raised her head.

    Above her was the dazzling ceiling, the massive ss chandelier, yet none could illuminate her increasingly icy heart.

    "Now that I''ve married into the Fu family, I am now one of them." Su Qingnuan said expressionlessly, "I am Su Yuerou, no longer Su Qingnuan."

    With that, she turned around and walked away.

    Jiang Liyun raised her gaze, but all she could see was her retreating figure.

    "Qingnuan!" Jiang Liyun hurriedly chased after her, flustered, "Listen to me, that man isn''t suitable for you."

    "Not suitable for me?" Su Qingnuan sneered coldly, "Perhaps more suitable for Su Yuerou?"

    Jiang Liyun was momentarily speechless, her brows furrowing slightly: "You have to understand, this marriage was originally arranged for your sister. Now while there''s still time to reverse things, why not switch ces? What harm could it do?"

    Su Qingnuan looked at the hand reaching closer to her and smiled faintly.

    "Toote."

    Fu Yihan already knows she is not Su Yuerou, and the two havee to an agreement. Saying anything now would be meaningless.

    She pushed away Jiang Liyun''s hand and walked downstairs without a shred of expression.

    Fu Yihan sat in his wheelchair in the center of the living room.

    Su Yuerou was curled up on the sofa, carefully sneaking nces at him.

    The sound of descending footsteps made the bodyguards turn to look, then bow slightly and whisper to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan nodded faintly.

    The bodyguard straightened up and looked at Su Qingnuan.

    "Young Madame, the Eldest Young Master says if there''s nothing else, you should leave now."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan nodded and walked forward directly.

    She stopped behind Fu Yihan and ced her hands on the wheelchair''s handles.

    "Let me push you."

    Fu Yihan did not refuse.

    Su Qingnuan exerted light force, and the wheelchair rolled forward with her strength.

    "Hey! Yuerou! You''re not staying for lunch?"

    Su Qingnuan tightened her grip and sped up, leaving that annoying voice behind.

    Outside the vi, Fu Yihan took the cane handed to him by the bodyguard, stood up, and got into the car.

    Su Qingnuan attempted to reach out to assist but was stopped by the bodyguard beside her.

    As Fu Yihan entered the car, Su Qingnuan lifted a foot.

    "What are you doing?" Fu Yihan nced at her foot with a less-than-friendly expression.

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly and asked cautiously, "I... was getting in."

    "Getting in?" Fu Yihan frowned deeply.

    The bodyguard appeared just in time, closed the car door, and blocked their line of sight.

    "Young Madame, your vehicle is behind us."

    Following the bodyguard''s gaze, she saw a simr model car trailing behind.

    Su Qingnuan looked at the bodyguard with puzzled eyes: "Does the Eldest Young Master''s obsession with cleanliness extend to not being able to bear sharing a car with someone?"

    The bodyguard responded earnestly, "The Eldest Young Master dislikes physical contact with others."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan sighed lightly before turning to get into the vehicle behind.

    No Fu Yihan, no members of the Su family¡ªSu Qingnuan leaned back against her chair, her expression rxing.

    Actually, traveling in separate cars wasn''t so bad. At least she didn''t have to walk on eggshells.

    Watching the scenery flutter past the window, Su Qingnuan''s brows gradually furrowed.

    The Su family was meant to be her sturdy support, yet now it seemed that might not be the case.

    The agreement between her and Fu Yihan would eventually crumble. Before that, Su Qingnuan needed to find a reasonable and proper way to leave the Fu family.

    Su Qingnuan slowly closed her eyes, clearing her mind to think carefully.

    However, by the time the car stopped, Su Qingnuan still hadn''te up with a solution.

    "Young Madame, we''ve arrived."

    She opened her eyes and was greeted by the sight of the familiar mountain vi.

    "Thank you." Su Qingnuan politely expressed gratitude and got out of the car herself.

    The car ahead had alreadye to a halt, and Fu Yihan was stepping out with the help of his cane.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan jogged forward, reaching out to assist.

    Fu Yihan''s brows furrowed slightly: "Step aside."

    The icy tone and contemptuous expression left Su Qingnuan''s hand frozen in mid-air.

    Fu Yihan acted as though she did not exist, seated himself down, released the cane, and cast her a frosty nce.

    "I told you¡ªI don''t like people touching me."

    Su Qingnuan awkwardly withdrew her hand, apologetic eyes turned toward him: "Sorry, I just wanted to help..."

    "Unnecessary." Fu Yihan''s cold gaze swept over her, "Save your insignificant pity."

    "...Understood."

    Everyone was ustomed to Fu Yihan''s ruthless demeanor. As they followed him into the vi, Su Qingnuan was left alone, standing at the door.

    Once again, Su Qingnuan felt that in the Fu household, she could only depend on herself.

    The two returned fairly early, leaving the house mostly unupied.

    Fu Yihan retreated to his room, and Su Qingnuan attempted to open the door, only to find it locked.

    Left without options, Su Qingnuan headed to the backyard, upying herself with the nts and flowers.

    "So cold, so untouchable, not the least bit adorable!"

    Su Qingnuan sulkily jabbed at a leaf in front of her, as if it were the unchanging, stoic face itself.

    "Who has dared to upset our beautiful sister-inw?"

    A teasing voice spoke from behind, startling Su Qingnuan. She turned hurriedly.

    Fu Yixing, d in a polished suit, wore a mischievous smile on his handsome face.

    Su Qingnuan frowned: "Second Young Master has returned."

    "Indeed, I''m back." Fu Yixing stepped closer to Su Qingnuan, his lowugh carried a suggestive tone, "Have you missed me?"

    Su Qingnuan recoiled in rm, shoving at Fu Yixing and shouting sternly: "Fu Yixing! I am your sister-inw!"

    "Sister-inw?" Fu Yixing scoffed, savoring the term with exaggerated disdain, "My brother, who can''t perform his husbandly duties, has such a beauty as a wife. Tell me, how do your nights pass?"

    Su Qingnuan''s face paled as her ears reddened.

    Why could the Fu family''s Second Young Master always manage to spew such brazen indecency?

    "Oh?" Fu Yixing raised his hand toward Su Qingnuan''s face, "Look at thatplexion¡ªso pale, so pitifully alluring."

    Su Qingnuan dodged his touch, her eyes zing with disgust: "Fu Yixing, you''re crossing the line!"

    "Crossing the line?" Fu Yixing chuckled, then suddenly grabbed Su Qingnuan''s arm tightly, pulling her against his chest. "You haven''t even seen how far I can really go."

    With strength, he pinned Su Qingnuan firmly to him, his fingers gliding slimily against her cheek.

    "Don''t be scared, sister-inw. Today, I''ll teach you about the secrets of boudoir pleasures."

    This scoundrel! Did he truly disregard his brother to this extent? Was such depravity even possible?

    Su Qingnuan''s eyes widened as his face drew closer, her finger twitching slightly.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    A sudden gush of water sprayed out, sshing onto Fu Yixing''s jaw.

    "Hey hey! What is this?!"

    Fu Yixing scrambled back, darting to avoid the water, but it seemed to chase him with malicious precision.

    Following the stream''s trail, he saw Su Qingnuan holding a garden hose.

    "Su Yuerou!" Fu Yixing bellowed in fury, "You dare to provoke me!"

 Chapter 13 I Do Not Offend Others

    <h4>Chapter 13: Chapter 13 I Do Not Offend Others</h4>

    Su Qingnuan''s frosty face carried a trace of disdain.

    "I''ve heard that beasts are always ruled by desires, controlling their bodies. Since the second young master can''t control his own, as your sister-inw, I have a responsibility to help you out."

    After speaking, she twisted the faucet, and the water sprayed out even more forcefully.

    Fu Yihan couldn''t dodge in time and waspletely soaked.

    Looking at Fu Yihan, whose hair was now disheveled as he frantically searched for shelter amidst the curtain of water, Su Qingnuan''s lips finally curved into a smile.

    "Su Qingnuan!" Fu Yihan struggled to open his eyes under the torrent, managing only to squint at her. "Just wait until I catch you. You''ll regret this!"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, hesitating as she caught sight of his menacing expression.

    In the Fu family, she waspletely isted and helpless. Provoking this vtile figure might lead to unimaginable repercussionster.

    If there''s an opportunity to reconcile, perhaps it''s worth considering?

    "Ahem, second young master." Su Qingnuan smiled gently, her tone softened. "We''ve only known each other a few days. You don''t owe me, and I don''t owe you. Why can''t we just get along?"

    "Get along?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly, blocking the water spray with his arm and slowly advancing toward Su Qingnuan. "You think too sweetly! Let me tell you now¡ªit''s impossible!

    Su Qingnuan took a step back, watching him struggle yet steadily inch closer. Her brows furrowed deeper.

    The faucet was herst line of defense. If he managed to push through, the consequences would be disastrous.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan straightened and looked over his shoulder, her expression serious. "Grandfather, you''re here!"

    Fu Yihan paused, ncing behind him.

    But there was nothing behind him¡ªonly an emptywn, not a single person in sight.

    Frustrated and furious, Fu Yihan turned back.

    The faucet had already fallen to the ground, and the woman who had been standing there was now several meters away, running.

    "Su Qingnuan! Stop right there!"

    Su Qingnuan''s chest heaved with her erratic breaths. She could feel her heart pounding faster with every step she took.

    But she couldn''t stop now. If she did and got caught, the oue would be catastrophic.

    Su Qingnuan frowned, enduring the faint ache in her chest, summoning all her strength to dash through the front doors.

    The servants guarding the door hesitated for a moment, stunned at her disheveled appearance as she ran inside.

    "Grab her! Catch her for me!"

    Fu Yihan''s voice was sharp andmanding, piercing the ears of everyone present.

    The servants quickly extended their hands, trying to seize Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan dodged one hand, pressing forward.

    The servants chased after her, but the slippery floor was unforgiving. After a few steps of hurried pursuit, one after another, they slipped and fell.

    Su Qingnuan grabbed the sofa nearby, steadying herself.

    Seeing the servants behind her scrambling to get up, Su Qingnuan quickly stood upright and headed upstairs.

    She hadn''t gone more than a couple of steps when someone came down to meet her.

    Grandfather Fu stood there, leaning on his cane, silently observing her.

    Su Qingnuan halted abruptly, lowering her head in panic. "Grandfather."

    "What''s going on here? Hurry and catch her for me!"

    Fu Yihan''s voice followed closely, shoving aside the immobilized servants, only to meet Grandfather Fu''s piercing gaze.

    "... Grandfather."

    Grandfather Fu''s brows tightened as his cane tapped against the floor. "What''s with your appearance? What were you doing?"

    Fu Yihan lowered his head, water dripping from his hair onto the polished floor.

    Looking back at the trail he''d left, messy prints of grass and mud and yellowish-brown water stains were scattered along the path.

    "Grandfather, this woman actually sprayed me with a faucet earlier!" Fu Yihan raised his voice, pointing at Su Qingnuan. "Look at the state I''m in now¡ªit''s all because of her!"

    Su Qingnuan shrank back, trembling slightly, her voice soft. "Grandfather... I didn''t mean to."

    Grandfather Fu''s sharp eyesnded on Su Qingnuan, scrutinizing her from head to toe.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head even further as if there were a hole in the ground before her, she might already have burrowed into it.

    "You did this?" A cold, harsh voice sounded near her ear.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, responding softly, "... Yes, it was me."

    "See!" Fu Yihan eximed excitedly. "She admitted it!"

    Grandfather Fu nced between them, his gaze ultimatelynding coldly on Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan gradually quieted down.

    The atmosphere became tense, but no one dared to speak.

    Grandfather Fu leaned on his cane, slowly descending the stairs.

    He nced distastefully at the traces on the floor, frowning. "Fu Yihan, clean this mess up."

    "... Grandfather!" Fu Yihan grit his teeth, ring at him defiantly. "I didn''t do it on purpose!"

    Grandfather Fu''s tone was severe: "Even if it wasn''t on purpose, clean it up."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan stood still, while Grandfather Fu continued to stare him down.

    Eventually, Fu Yihan turned reluctantly, ring at Su Qingnuan before taking cleaning tools from a servant and messily starting to clean.

    Grandfather Fu finally looked away from him, turning his attention to Su Qingnuan. His eyes remained cold.

    "Don''t let this happen again."

    Su Qingnuan was slightly startled but quickly nodded repeatedly in agreement.

    Watching Fu Yihan''s resentful gaze, Su Qingnuan greeted Grandfather Fu respectfully before heading upstairs.

    Arriving at the room she''d stayed in the previous night, Su Qingnuan was surprised to find the door locked.

    Su Qingnuan frowned, knocking gently.

    The door opened, and Fu Yihan''s personal bodyguard stood at the entrance, looking down at her from above.

    "..." Su Qingnuan swallowed nervously, her voice barely audible. "May I go inside to rest?"

    The bodyguardpletely blocked the doorway, obscuring nearly all view of the room behind him.

    "No."

    The towering bodyguard looked down at her slender wrist for a long moment, unmoving.

    Su Qingnuan retreated silently.

    The bodyguard shot her a brief nce before closing the door.

    "Su Qingnuan!"

    A familiar voice rang out from the end of the hallway. Su Qingnuan turned to look.

    Fu Yihan stood at the top of the stairs, ring at her with clenched teeth.

    Su Qingnuan''s heart skipped a beat, her body instinctively rushing forward, wedging herself in the doorway.

    "Let me in!" Su Qingnuan pleaded anxiously.

    The bodyguard frowned, looking down at the arms and legs wedged in the doorframe, hesitant to exert force.

    Seeing Fu Yihan running toward her, Su Qingnuan made a desperate move, sliding herself through the narrow gap like a slippery eel.

    She was petite and frail.

    The bodyguard, utterly unprepared, could only watch as she slipped into the room.

    Inside, Su Qingnuan quickly positioned herself at the door, urgently saying, "Close it! Quickly, close the door!"

    The bodyguard reluctantly pushed the door shut.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The door was closed.

    Su Qingnuan exhaled deeply, her tense body finally rxing as she sank to the ground.

    "Su Qingnuan! If you''ve got guts,e out here!"

    Su Qingnuan clutched her chest, calming her pounding heart.

    Of course, she didn''t have the guts. If she did, she wouldn''t have ended up married into this family.

    Ignoring Fu Yihan''s shouts, Su Qingnuan slowly steadied her breathing.

    "Heh, you really are quite lively."

 Chapter 14 Shelter

    <h4>Chapter 14: Chapter 14 Shelter</h4>

    Su Qingnuan froze.

    She had actually forgotten that there was still a Demon King waiting for her inside the room.

    Given Fu Yihan''s brutal and cold-blooded demeanor, the likelihood of him throwing her out immediately was probably one hundred percent.

    Su Qingnuan raised her gaze, looking toward the man in the distance.

    Fu Yihan sat in a wheelchair, and behind him was a desk slightly shorter than those used by most people.

    "Mr. Fu, I was left with no choice." Su Qingnuan forced a bitter smile.

    Fu Yihan let out a cold snort and nced at the bodyguard.

    The bodyguard understood, grabbing Su Qingnuan by the cor and lifting her up.

    Watching the bodyguard''s hand move toward the door, Su Qingnuan hurriedly clung onto the handle and eximed anxiously, "No, no! Can we discuss this calmly?"

    Her small face was pale,cking the flush most people would have after exertion. Her watery eyes looked pitifully at Fu Yihan, full of grievance.

    Faced with such a delicate plea, Fu Yihan remained unmoved, his right hand lifting slightly.

    The bodyguard tightened his grip and pulled Su Qingnuan away.

    Su Qingnuan was like a slippery creature, twisting and turning so much that the bodyguard struggled to hold onto her.

    Sensing the force behind her cken slightly, Su Qingnuan mustered all her strength and dashed toward Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan''s eyes widened as he watched her charge at him.

    Su Qingnuan suddenly clung to his leg and said urgently, "Mr. Fu, if you''re throwing me out, let''s go out together."

    His legs, firm in structure but weak in strength, remained motionless in Su Qingnuan''s grasp without resistance.

    Su Qingnuan felt she wasn''t clinging tightly enough and secretly exerted more force.

    In the empty room, there was no sound from the bodyguards or Fu Yihan. Only the persistent knocking outside the door echoed faintly.

    The temperature around them suddenly dropped, and even Su Qingnuan began to tremble.

    She shakily raised her head, meeting those deep, uncanny eyes. She froze.

    Fu Yihan''s usual gaze, when looking at people, could pierce them with icy shards.

    But now, his gaze was eerily calm. Abnormally calm. As if he were observing a corpse, with contempt and disdain.

    "I..."

    Su Qingnuan slowly released her grip, her voice carrying notes of apology.

    "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to."

    The bodyguard quickly stepped forward, grabbed Su Qingnuan, and began to carry her out the door.

    "Wait."

    The icy voice made the bodyguard''s muscles stiffen, and even Su Qingnuan felt the tremors.

    "Put her down. You leave. Stand guard outside."

    The bodyguard quickly let go of Su Qingnuan and fled the room as if escaping from danger.

    Watching the swiftly shut door, Su Qingnuan couldn''t help but find the situation ironic.

    That escape was way too fast. She hadn''t even fully processed it yet!

    "Su Qingnuan."

    A sinister tone, like the voice of a demon from hell.

    Su Qingnuan difficultly turned her head. Fu Yihan was wheeling himself closer to her.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan raised her hands protectively over her head, speaking with effort, "Maybe we can talk this through?"

    "Heh¡ª"

    A gust of ominous air made Su Qingnuan wish she could run away.

    But with the firmly shut door and the daunting barrier blocking her, where could she even run?

    Her right hand brushed against something cold, and her peripheral vision spotted the silver-white wheel.

    "Look up."

    The voice, now so close, made Su Qingnuan even more terrified.

    A hand suddenly grabbed her chin, forcing Su Qingnuan to lift her head.

    Fu Yihan was staring at her.

    Realizing this, Su Qingnuan couldn''t help but shut her eyes tightly.

    "Open your eyes," Fu Yihan said again.

    Su Qingnuan tentatively asked, "Can I not open them?"

    "Open your eyes."

    The impatient voice carried traces of coldness.

    Su Qingnuan calcted¡ªopening or closing her eyes would both be a punishment. Better to obey; maybe it would reduce her suffering!

    Like a butterfly opening its wings, she slowly revealed her pure yet frightened eyes.

    Su Qingnuan paused in surprise.

    The fury she had anticipated wasn''t there. He was simply looking at her, with a probing gaze.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan carefully ventured, "What are you doing?"

    Fu Yihan stared at her eyes, his expression unreadable.

    "Are you scared?"

    Her body trembled so obviously¡ªhow could she not be scared?

    But his question¡ªcould it mean that he wasn''t as angry anymore?

    Su Qingnuan felt a flicker of hope and cautiously replied, "Yes, I''m scared."

    ...

    She was scared¡ªFu Yihan could see it clearly reflected in her eyes. Fear glimmered within them. Yet what he sought wasn''t fear.

    "No hatred," Fu Yihan murmured.

    "What?" Su Qingnuan looked at him questioningly. "You''re speaking so quietly¡ªI couldn''t hear you."

    Fu Yihan fell silent, continuing to fix his gaze on Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan blinked, and as no harm came her way, the fear in her eyes began to slowly dissipate.

    Fu Yihan''s hand suddenly tightened its grip, prompting a cry of pain from Su Qingnuan as her brows furrowed.

    "It hurts..."

    Fu Yihan stared intently into her eyes, never once averting his gaze.

    But still, he found nothing.

    "What are you doing?"

    Su Qingnuan''s eyes brimmed with tears, her voice growing soft and quivering.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and forcefully pushed her away.

    Su Qingnuan propped herself up, rubbing at her sore jaw.

    Seeing the look of grievance on her face, Fu Yihan coldlymanded, "Get out."

    "..."

    The knocking outside had already ceased. Su Qingnuan got up, moved in small, slow steps, and left the room.

    The bodyguard still stood outside. Seeing Su Qingnuan emergepletely unharmed, he was visibly surprised.

    Yet Su Qingnuan had no time to pay attention to anyone''s reaction. Upon realizing Fu Yihan wasn''t nearby, Su Qingnuan entered the room across the hall.

    This room,pared to Fu Yihan''s, was much smaller, but at least it was clean.

    She locked the door from the inside and slowly shuffled toward the bed.

    Copsing onto it, Su Qingnuan stared nkly at the ceiling.

    Her heart continued to race. Compared to her usual quiet self, tonight she had said too much and done too much.

    Su Qingnuan slowly closed her eyes.

    She was so tired.

    Within her, a voice kept yelling at her to close her eyes.

    No!

    Su Qingnuan jerked her eyes open.

    Her chest heaved violently, and a suffocating feeling engulfed her.

    Her medicine¡ªher medicine was in that room!

    Su Qingnuan clutched her chest, struggling to rise to her feet.

    After taking just two steps, she copsed onto the floor.

    She couldn''t afford to fall...

    Her fingers gripped the floor tightly, turning pale. Slowly and resolutely, she crawled toward the door.

    Just one more step. One more effort, and she could call for help.

    Su Qingnuan''s face flushed red as she mustered every ounce of her strength to inch forward.

    "Bang¡ª"

    ...

    Fu Yihan lifted his gaze, staring at the person before him in confusion.

    "What is it?"

    The bodyguard stiffly ced a bottle of medication on the desk.

    "This is the young mistress''s medicine."

    Medicine?

    Fu Yihan froze briefly, lowering his eyes to nce at his watch.

    Seven o''clock in the evening.

    She probably hadn''t taken her medication yet.

    Skipping one dose shouldn''t be a big issue.

    Fu Yihan waved his hand. "Got it. You can leave now."

    The bodyguard nodded and left promptly.

    Fu Yihan picked up his pen and returned to his work.

    As his fingers moved, they suddenly froze mid-air.

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brows slightly.

    Putting down the pen, he picked up the bottle of medication and headed toward the door.

 Chapter 15 Home

    <h4>Chapter 15: Chapter 15 Home</h4>

    "Young Madam, this will be your living quarters from now on."

    Compared to the guest rooms, this small room wasn''t particrlyrge, but it was clean and tidy.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled, "I understand, thank you."

    Lianyi bounced forward eagerly and looked at the bodyguard with anticipation, "What about me? Where will I be staying?"

    The bodyguard hesitated and nced toward the doorway, "Your room is downstairs."

    "Alright!"

    Lianyi beamed at Su Qingnuan, waving her hand, "Young Madam, I''ll head downstairs to unpack my luggage first. I''lle back up shortly."

    "Okay."

    Watching Lianyi''s cheerful figure skip away, Su Qingnuan''s lips curled into a faint smile.

    How wonderful...

    A lively and beautiful girl¡ªwhen would she be able tough as freely and brightly as Lianyi?

    Su Qingnuan slowly withdrew her gaze and stepped into the room.

    Holding the medicine bottle she had retrieved from the study, Su Qingnuan found herself absorbed in thought.

    ording to Fu Yihan, she was now Mrs. Fu.

    "Being Mrs. Fu is no easy task."

    Fu Yihan''s voice echoed in her ears again.

    Cold, as frigid as the ice and snow during the heart of winter.

    She could do it!

    Su Qingnuan unconsciously gripped the bottle tighter. Only by fulfilling the role of Mrs. Fu could she hope to make it out alive. Even if she couldn''t seed, she must try!

    Giving herself a silent pep talk, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath, set the medicine bottle down, and began organizing her belongings.

    It wasn''t long before Lianyi returned.

    Grinning, she informed Su Qingnuan that it was time to go downstairs for dinner.

    Thinking of Fu Yixing, Su Qingnuan couldn''t help but sigh.

    "What''s wrong, Young Madam?" Lianyi asked with a smile. "Aren''t you hungry?"

    Su Qingnuan slowly shook her head and replied softly, "Hungry as I am, I''m afraid this meal won''t be easy to eat."

    Confused, Lianyi stared at her, but Su Qingnuan simply smiled without exining.

    The two women descended the stairs and were still approaching the dining room when voices drifted out from within.

    "I''m telling you, Su Qingnuan has no manners at all, making everyone wait on her!"

    It was Fu Yixing''s voice.

    Su Qingnuan immediately walked into the dining room and bowed in apology, "I''m sorry, everyone. I was tidying up my luggage, so I was a bitte."

    Old Master Tang gave her a cold nce and nodded, "Don''t let it happen again. Come and sit down."

    "Yes."

    There was only one seat left at the table¡ªnext to Fu Yihan.

    The other side of the empty seat, however, was next to Fu Yixing.

    After hesitating briefly, Su Qingnuan took the seat. She was currently in a passive position, with no real choice in the matter.

    As soon as she sat down, the servants began serving food.

    Unlike Fu Yihan''s icy indifference, Fu Yixing''s gaze clung to Su Qingnuan as if glued to her.

    Enduring her difort, Su Qingnuan focused intently on her meal.

    "Sister-inw, have you not eaten in days?" Fu Yixing sneered. "Eating like that¡ªif my brother takes you out in the future, you''ll surely disgrace our Tang family."

    Immediately, everyone''s eyes turned toward Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly and nced at Fu Yihan.

    Thetter showed no reaction, his face impassive as he continued eating, as if he hadn''t even heard the remark.

    Suppressing a sigh, Su Qingnuan straightened her posture and offered a faint smile, "That was my mistake. I was eating a bit hastily earlier. I''ll be more mindful moving forward."

    With that, she elegantly picked up her knife and fork, resuming her meal in aposed manner.

    Her every move exuded an aura of grace and dignity.

    Old Master Tang nodded approvingly and withdrew his attention.

    Seeing that nobody''s focus remained on Su Qingnuan, Fu Yixing¡ªunsatisfied¡ªadded, "Such pretentious behavior."

    Su Qingnuan''s hands paused briefly, but she quickly returned to her previous rhythm.

    "I''m finished."

    Beside her, Fu Yihan''s icy voice broke the silence, followed by the sound of a chair being pulled back.

    "Yihan." Old Master Tang called out to him, his gaze settling on Su Qingnuan. "I recall you have a banquet tonight. Bring Qingnuan with you."

    Fu Yihan paused slightly and shot a questioning look in his grandfather''s direction.

    Wiping at nonexistent crumbs at the corner of his mouth, Old Master Tang smiled, "Since she''s already part of the family, you should take her out to meet people."

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brow, "I refuse."

    Watching Fu Yihan stride confidently away, Su Qingnuan lowered her head slowly.

    "Big Brother really has his own personality!" Fu Yixing joked, ncing at Old Master Tang. "Grandfather, you know perfectly well that my brother never attends banquets, yet you deliberately used this to provoke him?"

    Old Master Tang frowned, "He will have to take on the family business sooner orter. He cannot avoid the public eye forever."

    Fu Yixing''s expression darkened, his gaze shadowed as itnded on the old man.

    "Grandfather, these things cannot be rushed. They take time."

    Yun Qingrou cast a nce at Fu Yixing and then observed, "Besides, isn''t Yixing still here to handle these social matters? There''s no need to hurry."

    Old Master Tang remained silent, turning his gaze toward Su Qingnuan.

    "Don''t you want to attend the banquet and have others acknowledge your status?"

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, reflexively wanting to shake her head, but reason stopped her.

    "Grandfather, although I very much hope for eptance," Su Qingnuan replied with a pale smile, "if my actions make Yihan unhappy, I believe that would be wrong on my part."

    Old Master Tang chuckled, "Alright then. Harmony between a husband and wife is more important; I''ll y the viin this time."

    With that, he stood and left.

    As soon as Old Master Tang exited the room, the atmosphere in the dining hall grew noticeably colder.

    "I didn''t expect this, Sister-inw! Always siding with Big Brother¡ªI thought..." Fu Yixing''s suggestive gaze flitted across Su Qingnuan, "Given his demeanor, perhaps you wouldn''t care."

    "What demeanor?" Yun Qingrou shot him a look of disapproval. "You''re doing it again. Can''t you speak properly in front of your sister-inw?"

    "What do you mean ''properly''?" Fu Yixing smirked mischievously. "I think what I''m saying is proper¡ªhighlighting for her exactly what kind of person my brother is."

    "Stop talking nonsense!" Yun Qingrou red at him before turning to Su Qingnuan with kindness, "Qingnuan, don''t take it to heart¡ªhe just enjoys joking around."

    Though her words were kind and said with a smile, the schadenfreude lurking in her eyes did not escape Su Qingnuan''s notice.

    "Of course not," Su Qingnuan said with a faint smile. "I understand."

    "You see that?" Yun Qingrou''s smile carried a deeper meaning. "How considerate and understanding your sister-inw is."

    "Indeed," Fu Yixing leaned against his seat''s armrest and bent forward, "I quite like this kind of understanding."

    Seeing his hands gradually inch toward her, Su Qingnuan abruptly stood up.

    As Fu Yixing had half his body leaning against her armrest, her sudden movement caused him to stumble sideways.

    Grasping the edge of the table in a panic, Fu Yixing angrily snapped at her, "What are you doing?"

    Su Qingnuan bowed her head, "I''ve finished eating. Please take your time."

    With that, she stormed away at once.

    "Hey!" Fu Yixing stood and teased, "Running off like that¡ªare you really afraid I''ll make a move on you here?"

    "Fu Yixing!"

    Yun Qingrou frowned deeply, her tone stern as she directed a sharp look at him.

 Chapter 16: In Name and Reality

    <h4>Chapter 16: Chapter 16: In Name and Reality</h4>

    Fu Yixing curled his lips and sat down, his face full of displeasure.

    "What? Are you going to side with that woman again?"

    Yun Qingrou gently patted his arm and said, "Grandfather naturally favors Fu Yihan. If you do anything to her, don''t think Grandfather¡ªor even Fu Yihan¡ªwill spare you. You''d better restrain yourself."

    "Ha!" Fu Yixing sneered dismissively. "I don''t believe that little girl is more important than me?"

    Yun Qingrou gave him a disapproving nce.

    "Alright, alright!" Fu Yixing stood up impatiently. "I got it. I''ll be careful."

    "That''s good," Yun Qingrou nodded in satisfaction, smiling gently. "Don''t worry. As long as you listen to your mother, I''ll figure out a way to help you."

    Fu Yixing pouted. "I hope so."

    "Enjoy your food; I''m leaving," he said.

    Watching Fu Yixing stroll away leisurely, Yun Qingrou nced at the food on the table and said with a smile, "Take it away, and bring out something fresh."

    "Yes, ma''am."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan returned to her room and found it unusually quiet.

    Had Fu Yihan gone to the study again?

    She sat on her bed, feeling utterly bored.

    But this wasn''t her home, the Su family, where she could find her own little yground.

    Closing the door behind her, Su Qingnuan took her medicine and forced herself to lie down.

    She had a dream.

    In the dream, there was an enormous pair of eyes, staring at her relentlessly.

    No matter where she ran, those eyes could always find her.

    Su Qingnuan tried desperately to hide, but there was nowhere to escape.

    As skyscrapers gradually rose in her world, Su Qingnuan wandered lost among the buildings.

    She moved cautiously, avoiding the pair of eyes hanging in the sky, retreating step by step.

    Suddenly, her heelnded on something, making a creaking sound.

    Su Qingnuan slowly turned around, lowering her gaze.

    A tiny person, no bigger than her palm, clung to her foot, waving its arms frantically.

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan squatted down curiously. "Fu Yihan?"

    The tiny Fu Yihan stomped his feet and pointed at her angrily, gesticting wildly.

    Though small in stature, his overwhelming attitude, arms akimbo as he shouted, bore an uncanny resemnce to a street vendor scolding customers.

    Su Qingnuan couldn''t help butugh out loud.

    But thisughter seemed to trigger something. Su Qingnuan''s leg abruptly cramped.

    The intense pain yanked her back to consciousness.

    She slowly opened her eyes. Her surroundings felt unfamiliar yet faintly familiar.

    It was her temporary room¡ªthe room where she, as Mrs. Fu, resided in the Fu household.

    Su Qingnuan sat up and lightly massaged her cramping leg, gritting her teeth to endure.

    When the pain subsided, she got up.

    Her room had a small, private balcony. Standing on the balcony, Su Qingnuan looked into the distance. It was pitch ck, with only the faint outlines of high-rises in the faraway skyline.

    "What time is it?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at the clock and answered herself, "Three o''clock."

    As soon as she spoke, she paused, rmed, and turned her head sharply.

    Not three meters away, Fu Yihan was sitting there.

    "...You!" Su Qingnuan eximed in shock. "Why are you here?"

    In the darkness, it was hard to discern Fu Yihan''s expression, but the disdain in his eyes was unmistakable.

    "This is my house. Why wouldn''t I be here?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan gave an awkward chuckle and turned away.

    "Where are you going?" Fu Yihan asked.

    She spoke softly, "Back to rest."

    In the darkness, he said nothing, but his gaze never left her.

    When no response came, Su Qingnuan hesitated for a long moment and ventured cautiously, "I''m... going back to sleep, then?"

    "Hmph!" Fu Yihan pushed himself out of the shadows in his wheelchair, rolling into the moonlight.

    The cold features of his face already carried a natural air of detachment.

    Under the silver glow of moonlight, that distance became even more pronounced, making him seem even less approachable.

    Su Qingnuan bit her lip, looking at him with quiet grievance.

    Fu Yihan averted his gaze and said in a low voice, "Get lost."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan hesitantly retreated to her room and closed the window behind her.

    As shey back on the soft bed, her mind was filled with the image of that man, sitting on the balcony in the moonlight, dressed in just a thin shirt.

    Wearing so little... won''t he catch a cold?

    Shaking her head, Su Qingnuan warned herself.

    Don''t think too much! That''s Fu Yihan, the cold and heartless tyrant!

    She closed her eyes, trying hard to fall asleep.

    ...

    The night breeze rushed in, colliding eagerly against his body.

    Fu Yihan closed his eyes, savoring the unique chill.

    Suddenly, he felt warmth on his shoulders, a temperature that didn''t belong to him.

    His eyes snapped open, and he turned his head sharply.

    With a gaze as sharp and piercing as an eagle''s, he frightened the person behind him into stumbling back several steps.

    Su Qingnuan stood there uneasily, fidgeting nervously as she stammered, "I... I... I didn''t mean to. I just... just..."

    Seeing how flustered she was, Fu Yihan lowered his head in silence.

    The heavy shawl draped over his shoulders emanated aforting warmth.

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brows. "I told you before¡ªwithout my permission, you are not allowed to enter my room."

    His voice was cold, like winter winds, sharp and biting.

    Su Qingnuan quickly bent in apology. "I''m sorry. It won''t happen again."

    Then she turned and ran away.

    The door closed with a loud "bang."

    Fu Yihan turned back, his gaze once again focused on the distant horizon.

    His hand gently stroked the heavy shawl over his shoulders, as though an iceberg had melted just a little.

    ...

    "Why did I meddle in someone else''s business!" Su Qingnuan eximed, pping her own hand in frustration. "Now he''s mad at me!"

    Her hands were pale and delicate, but now a rosy hue spread wherever she had pped them.

    After a few brisk ps, she threw herself onto the bed in frustration, silently vowing that if such a situation happened again, she would just pretend to be asleep and think nothing of it.

    Closing her eyes, Su Qingnuan remained angry.

    On the first of the new month, Su Qingnuan awoke, heavy dark circles under her eyes. She stood in front of the mirror and sighed deeply.

    In thetter half of the night, her dreams had returned. The staring eyes turned into an image of Fu Yihan eating people, making her wake up screaming in fright.

    "Young Madam."

    Su Qingnuan turned and saw Lianyi holding clothes. She smiled and asked, "What is it?"

    "These are your clothes. The old master said he wants to take you out to a music concert today."

    A concert?

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and nodded. "Thank you. Just leave them here."

    "Alright."

    As she watched Lianyi leave, Su Qingnuan''s smile disappeared.

    She had learned music, yes, but she was not like Su Yuerou.

    Su Yuerou yed the piano, while she yed the guqin.

    One was a modern instrument, the other an ancient one.

    If the old master asked her about it, how should she answer?

    When Fu Yihan emerged from his room, the first thing he saw was Su Qingnuan staring nkly at the clothes on the chair.

    "What? Are you afraid the clothes will attack you?"

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of her daze and looked at him.

    A mocking smirk yed on the corner of Fu Yihan''s lips. "Just going to a concert has you stumped? It seems you''re not fit to hold the position of Mrs. Fu for long."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan picked up the clothes silently and retreated into her room.

 Chapter 17 Concert

    <h4>Chapter 17: Chapter 17 Concert</h4>

    Su Qingnuan came out after changing her clothes, only to find Fu Yihan still sitting there.

    Hearing the sound of the door opening, Fu Yihan turned around.

    He scrutinized Su Qingnuan from head to toe for a long while before speaking: "Yourplexion doesn''t look good. Put on some makeup."

    Amanding tone.

    Su Qingnuan paused for a moment and nodded, saying, "Got it."

    She took out some tools she rarely used and applied light makeup, making herplexion appear much better.

    Walking out of the bathroom, Fu Yihan was still sitting there.

    Su Qingnuan finally couldn''t suppress her surprise and asked aloud, "Mr. Fu, aren''t you going to thepany today?"

    Fu Yihan put down the magazine in his hands, his gaze still indifferent.

    "The concert is an event funded by ourpany. Everyone in the family will attend."

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned and showed a bit of joy. "Does that mean you''ll be going too?"

    Fu Yihan frowned, "Is what I said hard to understand?"

    "...Understood."

    Su Qingnuan walked over, stretched out her hand proactively, and pushed Fu Yihan towards the door.

    Fu Yihan nced at her in surprise but did not refuse.

    In the house, there was an elevator dedicated for Fu Yihan to go upstairs, and Su Qingnuan enjoyed the rare convenience of not having to climb stairs today.

    In the living room, there were already a few people standing sparsely.

    Fu Yixing impatiently looked down at his watch. "How much longer are we waiting? We still have to meet clients! If we don''t leave now, we''ll run out of time!"

    Yun Qingrou pressed his shoulder gently and said softly, "No rush, let''s wait a bit more."

    Fu Yixing pushed her hand away and turned around.

    "Well, well!" Fu Yixing noticed the two of them and sneered, "Our Eldest Young Master and Madam finally came downstairs."

    Fu Yihan''s icy gazended on him, but he said nothing.

    Fu Yixing tugged at his tie, looking ufortable. "What are you staring at me for? We''ve been waiting for you for so long! Always dragging things out!"

    Fu Yihan moved his gaze coldly away. "You don''t have to wait."

    "...You!" Fu Yixing stepped forward aggressively.

    "Yixing!" Yun Qingrou held Fu Yixing''s hand and said helplessly, "That''s your big brother, why argue with him?"

    Fu Yixing caught Yun Qingrou''s pleading look and forcibly suppressed his anger.

    "Grandfather!" Fu Yixing called out to the old master with an odd tone, "Look at their prestige¡ªnow even you don''t get this kind of treatment, huh? Everyone in the family has to wait for them!"

    The old master nced at Fu Yihan and asked, "Is everything ready?"

    "Yes."

    A lukewarm response.

    Master Tang sighed with resignation. "Butler, have the driver bring the cars around."

    "Yes, sir."

    The family moved and stood by the door.

    Su Qingnuan and Fu Yixing were in the middle, watching as one car after another pulled up. Su Qingnuan couldn''t help but marvel.

    The Su family was also a wealthy and noble household, butpared to the extravagant style of the Fu family, it seemed a bit shabby.

    Fu Yixing''s car arrived first, and Su Qingnuan quickly nudged him to move towards it.

    A bodyguard handed Fu Yixing a cane, which he epted before boarding the car.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan closed the car door and walked towards the rear.

    "Madam." The bodyguard promptly stopped her and said softly, "You''ll be taking this car."

    "Hmm?" Su Qingnuan looked at the bodyguard in confusion. "Wasn''t it said that Mr. Fu doesn''t like close interactions?"

    "..." The bodyguard coughed softly and lowered his voice. "There will be many reporters at the concert venue."

    Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly and opened the car door to get in.

    Fu Yihan sat by the window, upying nearly two-thirds of the seat.

    Su Qingnuan shrank into the corner, keeping herself tightly contained to avoid any physical contact with Fu Yihan.

    The car had a faint scent¡ªrefreshing and pleasant, very nice.

    Su Qingnuan couldn''t resist sniffing the air.

    Fu Yihan suddenly turned to look at her.

    Su Qingnuan quickly hung her head and covered her mouth.

    "It''s a hypnotic fragrance."

    "..."

    The hand covering her mouth slid upward slightly.

    Seeing her pitifully huddled in the corner, her eyebrows filled with fear as she tightly covered her nose¡ªher face flushed red¡ª

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and looked back out the window.

    On the ck ss, his handsome side profile was reflected, along with a faintly upturned corner of his lips.

    The car didn''t head directly to the concert venue but stopped at thepany building.

    A crowd of people in suits flowed out from the entrance, enthusiastically weing Master Tang.

    Su Qingnuan watched the lively crowd outside, then turned back to nce at Fu Yihan.

    Even while seated in the car, the man maintained a straight posture.

    It somehow felt... a little lonely.

    "What are you looking at?"

    Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her gaze and shook her head. "Nothing."

    The car window was suddenly rolled down, revealing the bodyguard''s face.

    "Eldest Young Master, the old master wants you to get out of the car."

    Fu Yihan gave him a cold look and shut the window.

    Through the ss, Su Qingnuan could also see the bodyguard walking away in silence.

    When she turned back to look at Fu Yihan, he was still the same¡ª

    Surrounded by an aura of coldness, keeping everyone at arm''s length.

    How distinct his personality is indeed...

    Su Qingnuan sighed inwardly, lowering her head slowly and pressing against her palm.

    When would she also be able to say "no" as freely as this?

    "Ssh¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan blinked and looked down at the water suddenly appearing in her palm.

    "Wait for half an hour. Don''t let yourself die of thirst."

    Su Qingnuan stiffly raised her head to look at Fu Yihan.

    He had already closed his eyes, leaning back against the seat.

    When he closed his eyes, the coldness on his face diminished considerably, making him look even more refined and handsome.

    Yet the deeply furrowed brows still made him seem as strict as ever.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head slowly, gazing at the bottle of mineral water in her hands, and couldn''t help but smile faintly.

    Actually, this man wasn''t as bad as the rumors suggested.

    ...

    They had expected to wait only half an hour, but it turned out to be an hour and a half.

    During that time, Su Qingnuan couldn''t resist running to the bathroom twice. Finally, after returning the second time, she saw Master Tang and the others.

    Tiptoeing back into the car, Su Qingnuan noticed that Fu Yihan, who had been feigning sleep with his eyes closed, was now wide awake.

    As if sensing her gaze, Fu Yihan turned his head to look at her.

    Their eyes met.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head.

    Fu Yihan frowned lightly and stretched his hand toward the front.

    The driver skillfully took out a towel.

    Fu Yihan unfolded the towel and suddenly ced it over Su Qingnuan''s head.

    "Ah?"

    Su Qingnuan raised her hand to remove it.

    Her hand was caught mid-air.

    "Don''t move," Fu Yihan said sternly.

    Su Qingnuan froze, not daring to move.

    After a long moment, Fu Yihan let go of her hand, speaking coldly, "If I catch you staring at me again, I''ll dig out your eyeballs."

    Su Qingnuan''s raised hand paused, then slowly lowered.

    Forget it. So be it.

    Better than losing her eyeballs.

    The car started, and amidst the swaying motion, Su Qingnuan surprisingly learned to amuse herself, closing her eyes and feeling out each turn.

    It was unclear how long had passed, but when the car stopped moving, Su Qingnuan finally pulled the towel off her head and gazed outside.

    On her right was an enormous, curved building. Su Qingnuan recognized it immediately from television¡ªit was the world-famous A City Concert Hall.

    She had dreamed countless times of performing on this stage, even if just once...

 Chapter 18 Teasing

    <h4>Chapter 18: Chapter 18 Teasing</h4>

    "Why are you standing there in a daze?"

    Fu Yihan''s cool and indifferent voice broke through Su Qingnuan''s dreamy reverie.

    "Oh."

    She opened the car door, stepped out, and obediently began pushing Fu Yihan''s wheelchair, following behind the crowd.

    Old Master Fu led the way, engaging warmly with various prominent figures as he moved forward.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yixing busily trailed close to Old Master Fu, diligently making his presence known.

    As a result, Fu Yihan and Su Qingnuan, who walked at the rear, drew little attention.

    The few people who did nce their way were quickly deterred by Fu Yihan''s overwhelming aura, keeping their distance.

    At the front of the music hall were a few steps of stairs. Su Qingnuan noticed them and instinctively looked to the bodyguards for help.

    However, the bodyguards stared straight ahead, ignoring her entirely.

    The wheelchair stopped before the stairs, and Su Qingnuan softly said, "Shall I help you...?"

    "No need," Fu Yihan interrupted, ncing behind him.

    Someone approached with a cane in hand.

    Fu Yihan braced himself against the cane, standing upright, and began ascending the steps one at a time.

    The nearby bodyguards offered no assistance, merely observing him quietly as he moved up.

    Seeing Fu Yihan finally reach thest stair, the bodyguards lifted the wheelchair and carried it up.

    Lowering himself back into the seat, Fu Yihan''s expression remained unchanged. "Let''s go."

    Su Qingnuan hurried forward, nervously pushing Fu Yihan further inside.

    Before they could enter the hall, Fu Yixing blocked their way.

    "Big Brother, there are stairs everywhere in the front. It''s inconvenient for you to move around. Why don''t you take the back entrance?" Fu Yixing stared at him with smug malice, the corners of his lips curling into a triumphant smile.

    Fu Yihan nced at him and said nothing.

    Fu Yixing frowned, his gaze shifting before settling on Su Qingnuan.

    "Aren''t you the perfect sister-inw? So dutiful, standing faithfully by my brother''s side."

    Su Qingnuan tightened her grip on the wheelchair''s handles, remaining silent.

    Fu Yixing sneered coldly, then turned and walked inside.

    As Fu Yixing grew further away and the crowd began to disperse, a bodyguard leaned down respectfully. "Eldest Young Master, everything is ready."

    "Hmm."

    The bodyguard walked over to Su Qingnuan, ncing briefly at her hands.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated before stepping aside and releasing her grip.

    The bodyguard took over her position, pushing Fu Yihan toward the hall''s right side.

    Were they really taking the back entrance?

    It puzzled Su Qingnuan. The Fu Yihan she knew was cold and confident¡ªwhy would a few mere steps push him to use the back entrance?

    Others, too, were curious, including a handful of reporters.

    Watching the reporters follow closely behind, Su Qingnuan felt she couldn''t stand idly by and followed suit.

    The bodyguard pushed Fu Yihan for a moment before suddenlying to a halt, then headed toward the building.

    In just the blink of an eye, they disappeared.

    The reporters trailing behind raised their cameras, snapping frantically.

    "Since when was there an elevator here? Last time I was here, I didn''t see one."

    "I heard the music hall''s owner specially added it to amodate Fu Yihan."

    "Amazing! We''ve got ourselves an exclusive scoop today!"

    "Quick, keep taking pictures!"

    The clicking of shutters and shing of lights were relentless, leaving Su Qingnuan momentarily stunned.

    Suddenly, the bodyguard reappeared, scanning the area before his gazended sharply on Su Qingnuan. His brows furrowed slightly.

    Su Qingnuan jolted back to awareness and hurried over.

    "Sorry about that," Su Qingnuan apologized with a polite smile.

    The bodyguard gave her a brief look before turning away indifferently. "Let''s go. Eldest Young Master is waiting inside."

    The bodyguard approached the sensor at the ss door. With a beep, it slid open.

    Su Qingnuan quickly followed the bodyguard inside.

    Through the ss door, she could see Fu Yihan sitting impatiently within.

    His cold gaze brieflynded on her, and she reflexively lowered her head.

    Fu Yihan withdrew his eyes. "Let''s go."

    The three of them entered the elevator.

    Beyond the ss door, there was no other pathway¡ªjust a single elevator.

    The elevator''s walls were entirely ss, resembling one of those observation lifts inrge shopping malls, offering a clear view of the surrounding area.

    The elevator stopped on the third floor. The bodyguard stepped out first, standing guard at the entrance.

    Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan.

    She understood immediately and moved forward to push his wheelchair out.

    Just as they exited, voices carried from the direction ahead.

    "It''s a great honor for Old Master Fu to personally visit our music hall. Of course, we should have gone out to greet him..."

    Su Qingnuan raised her gaze, noticing a group emerging from the opposite elevator, led by none other than Old Master Fu.

    When Old Master Fu saw Fu Yihan and the others, his steps paused briefly, and he looked at the man beside him with a faint smile. "Director Jin, your thoughtfulness has been well received by the Fu family."

    Following Old Master Fu''s line of sight, Director Jin smiled warmly. "Eldest Young Master is the cornerstone of the Fu family. Ensuring convenience for him is the least we can do."

    What a sycophant!

    Though Su Qingnuan had witnessed plenty of tterers in the Su family, she had never seen someone showerpliments so tantly and unapologetically.

    Old Master Fu chuckled softly and approached Fu Yihan.

    "Yihan, did you notice Director Jin''s thoughtfulness?"

    Fu Yihan turned his head slightly, eyeing the man''s ingratiating expression. His lips curved faintly, sneering lightly, "Unforgettable."

    Director Jin maintained hisposure, his smile unwavering. "Eldest Young Master, Old Master, this way, please. We''ve reserved the best seats with the prime view¡ªVIP, of course!"

    Old Master Fu smiled and began walking inside.

    Understanding the cue, Su Qingnuan exerted more force on her hands as she pushed Fu Yihan to follow.

    The so-called VIP section was merely a high-level room offering a direct view of the stage.

    When everyone entered the room, they saw their names already marked on their seats.

    Old Master Fu settled into the first row, leaving the seat beside him empty.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her eyes, ncing hesitantly at Fu Yihan.

    He remained indifferent, not urging her to move forward.

    As Old Master Fu took his seat and turned to nce at her, Su Qingnuan finally wheeled Fu Yihan over.

    After arranging his seat properly, Su Qingnuan straightened her posture.

    "Where are you going?"

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment and turned back to look at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan gestured toward the empty seat beside him. "Sit here."

    The name pasted on the chair¡ª"Fu Yixing"¡ªstood out distinctly.

    "...This seat belongs to the Second Young Master," Su Qingnuan said cautiously.

    Fu Yihan''s cold gaze shot over. "I told you to sit here."

    "...."

    Reluctantly, Su Qingnuan moved slowly to sit down.

    She couldn''t defy Fu Yihan, especially not in such a public setting. If she were to contradict him, who knows how the crowd outside might react.

    Seated now, Su Qingnuan felt restless.

    Given Fu Yixing''s personality, resolving this issue might not be so simple...

    At first, Fu Yixing didn''t seem to care about the matter of seating. However, once the music hall staff had all left, he strode up to Su Qingnuan.

    "Get up," Fu Yixing demanded harshly.

    Su Qingnuan said nothing but turned toward Fu Yihan for support.

    Fu Yihan remained motionless, his eyes closed as he reclined against the wheelchair, exuding unshakenposure.

    "This is my seat." Fu Yixing raised his voice, anger barely concealed in his tone.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, stealing a nce at the still-unresponsive Fu Yihan. She held the armrest and silently stood up.

 Chapter 19 Brotheréˆ¥æªš Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 19: Chapter 19 Brother''s Revenge</h4>

    A slender, fair hand suddenly pressed down on Su Qingnuan''s hand.

    Fu Yihan slowly opened his eyes, maintaining a calm expression as he looked at Fu Yixing: "Sit down."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment, then sat back down after briefly standing.

    Fu Yixing gritted his teeth, ring at Fu Yihan with dissatisfaction.

    "Big Brother, we''re in public. Could you at least show me some respect?"

    Fu Yihan curled his lips mockingly and said, "She is Mrs. Fu; naturally, she should sit next to me."

    "And what about me?" Fu Yixing shouted angrily. "Am I supposed to sit in the back?"

    Seeing the worsening atmosphere between the two, the old Mr. Fu furrowed his brows and stood up: "Why don''t you sit here instead?"

    "....."

    Fu Yixing abruptly fell silent.

    The old Mr. Fu lifted his gaze, scanning the room for the only vacant seat, which was in the second row.

    There were seven people in their party; the first row was fully upied, while the back row remained empty.

    "Your elder brother rarely goes out. Amodating him a bit wouldn''t hurt." The old Mr. Fu said sternly, "Go sit in the back row."

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing protested urgently, "Someone mighte in to take photoster. If they see me sitting in the back, how humiliating would that be for me?"

    "What''s so humiliating about that?" The old Mr. Fu dismissed his concerns. "We''re simply attending a concert as a family. What could others possibly say about it?"

    "..."

    Fu Yixing remained rooted to the spot, refusing to move.

    Seeing this, Yun Qingrou stood up helplessly: "Yixing, why don''t you take my seat, and I''ll sit in the back."

    "That won''t do!" Fu Yixing pressed her back down into her seat. "After all, you are....."

    "What am I?" Fu Yihan cut him off coldly, interrupting. "Just an outsider who relies on the Fu family''s reputation to be part of this. Sitting in the back wouldn''t be inappropriate at all."

    Yun Qingrou: "..."

    "Fu Yihan!" Fu Yixing growled through clenched teeth. "Don''t go too far!"

    Fu Yihan snorted indifferently and nced at him dismissively. "If I go too far, what can you do?"

    Fu Yixing clenched his fists tightly, stepping forward.

    At that moment, the bodyguards appeared, stepping in front of Fu Yixing to block him.

    "Second Young Master, the Eldest Young Master dislikes people approaching him. Please step back."

    Seeing the towering stature of the bodyguards, Fu Yixing reluctantly took a few steps back.

    Fu Yihan coughed lightly, signaling the bodyguards to withdraw.

    Yun Qingrou nced at Fu Yihan''s cold expression, then gently held Fu Yixing by the shoulders, guiding him to sit in her seat. "It''s fine. Your dignity is important."

    "Mom...." Fu Yixing frowned, gripping her hand and whispered, "I can''t let him get away with this!"

    Yun Qingrou looked at the old Mr. Fu and shook her head slightly.

    Fu Yixing paused, hesitated, but eventually released her hand.

    The heated sh over seating arrangements dissipated under Yun Qingrou''s forbearance.

    Yet the lingering tension in the air refused to fade away.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, staring at therge hand still resting on the back of hers.

    "Lift your head."

    Themanding tone made Su Qingnuan immediately straighten her posture and look toward the stage.

    The warmth on her hand disappeared as the man pulled his hand back.

    Su Qingnuan sneaked a nce at him, only to be caught in the act.

    Fu Yihan''s cold gazended on her, his lips curving slightly upward.

    Seeing the bloodthirsty glint in his eyes, Su Qingnuan quickly looked away, sitting upright and stiff.

    ...

    The soothing music poured into her ears, and Su Qingnuan involuntarily closed her eyes, savoring the momentary peace.

    The melody from the masters carried emotions¡ªjoy, grief, celebration, and sorrow¡ªpulling at the listeners'' heartstrings with peaks and valleys.

    Suddenly, the music stopped. Everyone snapped back to attention as thunderous apuse filled the air.

    The old Mr. Fu smiled and remarked, "The music world nowadays is full of talent!"

    Fu Yihan politely responded with a simple "Mm."

    Watching his indifferent demeanor, the old Mr. Fu shook his head helplessly. "Forget it, it''s pointless talking to you about this," he said, and then stood up.

    As the old Mr. Fu left, Su Qingnuan cautiously got to her feet.

    "Where are you going?"

    Su Qingnuan froze and hesitated before replying nervously to Fu Yihan: "To the restroom....."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan''s icy gaze shed with disdain before he turned his face away.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly ran off.

    The third floor had dedicated restrooms. Su Qingnuan rushed all the way there.

    After spending some time inside, she opened the door to leave but was startled to find someone standing at the restroom entrance.

    "Sister-inw." Fu Yixing smiled faintly, though his eyes betrayed his hatred. "I''ve been waiting for you."

    Su Qingnuan backed away cautiously. "What do you want?"

    "Don''t worry." Fu Yixing said, grinning. "I''m not interested in touching you today."

    He nced toward the stage and continued, "I heard you y piano well, and that you were young when a professor from Saint Petersburg University invited you to study there. Since we have some free time today, why don''t you perform for us?"

    "..... We''re here to attend the concert. It''s not appropriate."

    Fu Yixing sneered and grabbed Su Qingnuan by the arm.

    "There''s no such thing as appropriate or inappropriate. Or is it that you don''t dare?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan bit her lip and struggled to free herself from Fu Yixing''s grip.

    But Fu Yixing''s strength was overwhelming. He dragged Su Qingnuan toward the elevator.

    As she was shoved into the elevator, Su Qingnuan couldn''t suppress her anger. "Fu Yixing! I''m your sister-inw! This is coercion!"

    "Sister-inw?" Fu Yixing scoffed, looking at her disdainfully. "Don''t overestimate your importance. If I wanted, you''d be kicked out of this house by tomorrow."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan clenched her fists tightly, a trace of hatred surfacing in her eyes.

    Unfazed, Fu Yixing dragged Su Qingnuan to the backstage area of the stage.

    In the backstage lounge, during intermission, the crowd gathered and chatted joyfully.

    Suddenly, the lounge doors were flung open, and a girl''s sharp scream shattered the cheerful atmosphere.

    Everyone turned to see the infamous Fu family''s second son dragging a woman into the room.

    His piercing gaze scanned everyone as he barked, "Who''s in charge here?"

    Momentster, a man dressed in a vest suit stepped forward.

    "Second Young Master, I''m in charge. Is there something you need?"

    Fu Yixing shoved Su Qingnuan forward and coldly ordered, "Get her made up. She''s going to perform on stage."

    "What?" The person in charge hurried to catch Su Qingnuan, gasping in surprise. "And thisdy is?"

    "Thisdy?" Fu Yixing sneered, his lips curling upward. "She''s my sister-inw. You should know my elder brother''s temper. If her performance disappoints, the consequences won''t just fall on her."

    The person in charge trembled slightly and quickly escorted Su Qingnuan inside.

    "Don''t worry, Mrs. Fu. We''ll make sure you''re dressed beautifully for the stage. What piece do you want to perform? We can assist you....."

    A crowd surrounded her, chattering non-stop, leaving Su Qingnuan no room to respond.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yixing leaned casually against the doorway, clearly in no hurry to leave.

    What now?

    She couldn''t y the piano at all!

 Chapter 20 Stunning

    <h4>Chapter 20: Chapter 20 Stunning</h4><h4></h4>

    "Mrs. Fu, please raise your hand."

    Su Qingnuan, like a puppet, obediently raised her hand.

    The woman tied the ribbon on her shoulder and smiled faintly, "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan lifted her gaze and looked at the woman in the mirror.

    The makeup on her face made her look more lively; her lips were coated in a subtle pink, and herrge, flickering eyes were filled with confusion.

    The simplicity of the pale blue silk gown entuated her curves beautifully.

    As her footsteps shifted slightly, the hem of the dress swayed fluidly, stunningly graceful.

    Could someone exin why things had turned out this way?

    She had onlye to watch a concert¡ªwhy was she being forced to perform?

    "Mrs. Fu, are you dissatisfied?" the woman asked cautiously.

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, noticing the worried look on the woman¡¯s face in the mirror. A sudden sense of helplessness washed over her.

    "No, I¡¯m very satisfied."

    Stepping off the tform, Su Qingnuan slowly moved toward the door, peering outside.

    In the lounge area, Fu Yixing was still guarding the door like a steadfast sentry.

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly. What now?

    "Mrs. Fu, what are you looking at?"

    Su Qingnuan turned around. The woman who had just helped her change was staring at her with a confused expression.

    Seeing the clothes still in her hands, Su Qingnuan suddenly said, "Could you leave? Leave this lounge."

    The woman hesitated for a moment before nodding slowly, "I can."

    "That¡¯s wonderful!" Su Qingnuan leaned in close to the woman¡¯s ear and whispered, "Go to the third floor for me and find Fu Yihan. Tell him I¡¯m here."

    "Mr. Fu?" the woman eximed in surprise, "We¡¯re not allowed to meet Mr. Fu."

    "....."

    Given Fu Yihan¡¯s temper, it wasn¡¯t entirely impossible.

    Su Qingnuan sighed and added, "Then find a bodyguard named Aqi and have him ry the message."

    "Alright."

    Watching the woman leave smoothly with the clothes in her arms, Su Qingnuan let out a breath of relief.

    She could only hope the message would be delivered sessfully.

    Leaning against the door, Su Qingnuan anxiously awaited.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    The door vibrated behind her as she pressed her weight on it hurriedly.

    "Sister-inw, if you don¡¯te out, I¡¯ll have to go in and rescue you!"

    Fu Yixing¡¯s mocking tone rang out, but Su Qingnuan had no intention of responding.

    This man was like a madman¡ªone could never guess what he intended to do.

    Su Qingnuan held the door, maintaining her silence.

    In the next moment, the door was kicked open forcefully, sending Su Qingnuan almost sprawling at the threshold.

    She stared at Fu Yixing in terror.

    Fu Yixing paused when he saw her¡ªstanding there, panic-stricken and at a loss.

    Su Qingnuan stood her ground, her wide eyes pure as a celestial spirit descending to earth.

    "Tsk!" Fu Yixing frowned irritably and approached her, "Why would you marry someone like that cripple?"

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brow and pushed his hand away, "He¡¯s your elder brother. Please show some respect."

    Fu Yixing sneered disdainfully and turned to leave, "Don¡¯t y tricks on me. The piano is ready for you¡ªgo onstage."

    "Fu Yixing, shouldn¡¯t my performance be discussed with Yihan first?"

    "Discuss what?" Fu Yixing sneered, shooting her a nce, "You really thought I arranged this for your performance?"

    As expected...

    This man clearly had no good intentions. Agreeing to go onstage might lead to who-knows-what awaiting her up there!

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, standing motionless.

    Fu Yixing had already reached the door and grew impatient when she didn¡¯t follow.

    "If you don¡¯te out now, I¡¯ll carry you onto the stage myself!"

    "....."

    Helpless, Su Qingnuan lifted her gown and walked out slowly.

    From the lounge to the backstage area, the astonished gazes of countless people fell on her.

    Standing at the iron door, Fu Yixing turned to Su Qingnuan, "Go in."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment, staying put.

    Fu Yixing, annoyed, shoved her inside.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The iron door mmed shut behind her.

    In the backstage area, staff moved to and fro, none of them seeming to recognize Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan stood there in bewilderment.

    Could she possibly stall here until Fu Yihan and the others arrived?

    "Are you Mrs. Fu?" an artist pushed through the crowd, smiling kindly at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan forced a polite smile, yearning to reject the title in that moment.

    "I am."

    "Everything is ready for you. Your performance is next¡ªdo you have any special requests?"

    "The next performance?" Su Qingnuan asked in shock, "So soon?"

    "Yes!" The man grinned obsequiously, "Our show is almost over, and yours is thest act."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t realized that her antics in the lounge had caused her to miss so many performances. The thought filled her with regret.

    The man led Su Qingnuan to the equipment, exining in a low voice.

    Overwhelmed by the details, Su Qingnuan tried to grasp the essentials.

    "Five minutes?"

    "Yes, Mrs. Fu. Five minutes until you go onstage. Please prepare yourself."

    Five minutes...

    Five minutes wasn¡¯t enough. She wasn¡¯t even sure if Fu Yihan knew she was here.

    Su Qingnuan began pacing in frustration.

    Like a headless fly, she wandered aimlessly.

    After a long while, she suddenly halted and turned to the man.

    "Um... May I ask if there¡¯s a guqin avable here?"

    ...

    "Up next is a special performance by Miss Su Qingnuan. Let¡¯s wee her with apuse..."

    Amid scattered apuse, Su Qingnuan stepped out slowly.

    As the eldest daughter of the Su family, she had learned the basics of etiquette.

    Maintaining a graceful demeanor and an air of confidence were herpulsory lessons.

    Su Qingnuan summoned all her courage andposure, presenting herself in her best state as she took the stage.

    "Tap¡ªtap¡ªtap¡ª"

    The crisp sound of her high heels against the floor echoed throughout the concert hall.

    Onstage, a piano was prominently disyed. The audience watched as she approached... the guqin beside the piano, and gracefully took a seat.

    "What¡¯s going on?" Fu Old Master furrowed his brows, turning to the Housekeeper beside him.

    The Housekeeper whispered after discreetly inquiring, then returned to Fu Old Master¡¯s side and spoke softly.

    Fu Old Master frowned, ncing at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan appeared entirely unperturbed, as steady as a mountain.

    "You¡¯re just going to watch?" Fu Old Master demanded sternly.

    Fu Yihan chuckled lightly, "Help her this once, and what of next time? Such a simple situation¡ªif she can¡¯t handle it herself, how can she maintain her role as Mrs. Fu?"

    "....."

    Fu Old Master said nothing, silently falling back into his seat.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan adjusted her fingers, taking a deep breath.

    "Zheng¡ª"

    The ancient, sonorous sound of the guqin resonated, its mournful and ethereal melody reverberating through the concert hall, tugging at the hearts of those who listened.

    Closing her eyes, Su Qingnuanpletely immersed herself in her own world.

    With each pluck and stroke of her fingers, the melody unfolded, expressing her emotions through the music.

 Chapter 21 Well Done

    <h4>Chapter 21: Chapter 21 Well Done</h4><h4></h4>

    The quiet and soulful sound of the ancient zither lingered in the air.

    Suddenly, a long cry echoed, and the music abruptly stopped.

    The audience remained immersed in the vast and profound atmosphere it evoked.

    "Bravo!"

    Suddenly, someone shouted loudly.

    The crowd snapped out of their reverie, stood up, and began apuding.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheeks blushed as she watched them apud for her, her lips curling upward uncontrobly.

    "Thank you."

    Su Qingnuan rose, bowed to the audience below, then turned and left the backstage.

    After stepping off the stage, Su Qingnuan noticed Fu Yixing standing in the waiting area.

    His expression was grim, and the way he stared at Su Qingnuan was as cold and ruthless as a serpent.

    Su Qingnuan instinctively took a step back. "Second Young Master."

    "Why wasn¡¯t it the piano?" Fu Yixing asked sternly.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "I just happened to see the zither and wanted to give it a try."

    "Give it a try?" Fu Yixing sneered coldly. "So you mean to tell me you¡¯re a musical genius? That for an instrument you¡¯ve never touched before, you can y it so effortlessly?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯splexion turned pale as she looked at him nervously.

    Fu Yixing stepped forward, forcing Su Qingnuan to retreat.

    "Your behavior right now is deception!" Fu Yixing said icily. "Su Yuerou has never learned the zither. You¡¯re not Su Yuerou!"

    Su Qingnuan froze, rooted to the spot.

    "Speak! Who are you?"

    What to do?

    Was she about to be exposed just like that?

    Su Qingnuan looked at the aggressive Fu Yixing, his gaze filled with suspicion, and abruptly lowered her head.

    "I... My sister." Su Qingnuan sped her hands tightly. "My sister Su Qingnuan ¨C she knows the zither. It was my sister who taught me how to y."

    Fu Yixing paused slightly, staring at Su Qingnuan with doubt.

    Su Qingnuan raised her head, her gaze firm as she met Fu Yixing¡¯s eyes.

    After a moment, Fu Yixing stepped back. "You better not be lying!"

    Watching Fu Yixing storm off, Su Qingnuan let out a slow breath.

    Just barely...

    If Fu Yixing went elsewhere to inquire whether Su Qingnuan could y the zither, the answer would undoubtedly be yes.

    Su Jia was already on the same boat as her now; they would certainly speak up for her.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan pressed a hand to her chest, gentlyforting herself.

    After calming her emotions, Su Qingnuan left the waiting area and headed straight to the third floor.

    Inside the VIP room on the third floor, there wasn¡¯t a single person.

    Su Qingnuan stopped in her tracks.

    Where was everyone?

    "Who are you looking for?"

    A familiar voice sounded, and Su Qingnuan turned to look.

    She spotted Fu Yihan seated in a wheelchair, approaching her slowly.

    Su Qingnuan hurried over, moving behind Fu Yihan to push his wheelchair.

    "Why don¡¯t I see anyone?" Su Qingnuan asked doubtfully. "Where¡¯s Grandpa? Why are you the only one here?"

    Fu Yihan frowned and replied coldly, "You talk too much."

    Su Qingnuan immediately shut her mouth, but the confusion in her eyes remained.

    Fu Yihan adjusted his clothes and said, "Let¡¯s go downstairs."

    Su Qingnuan nced back at the empty VIP room and tucked away her many questions, pushing Fu Yihan toward the elevator.

    Before the elevator doors opened, Su Qingnuan spotted numerous reporters outside through the ss.

    Their cameras shed incessantly.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated momentarily, squinting her eyes, and she dared not step forward.

    Fu Yihan turned back to look at her hesitation.

    "If you¡¯re afraid to look, then close your eyes."

    The icy, emotionless tone rang out.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze and replied softly, "I can handle it."

    She pushed Fu Yihan forward, exerting a little more strength.

    "Mr. Fu, is this your newlywed wife?"

    "We heard that Madam made quite an impression at the music performance. Does she n to enter the music industry?"

    "Can you please..."

    Su Qingnuan frowned, bowing her head as she moved forward.

    If it weren¡¯t for the bodyguards on either side, the reporters might have swarmed them.

    After narrowly escaping the circle of reporters, they were immediately greeted by Fu family members.

    The elder Fu noticed that Fu Yihan had safelye out, turned around, and got into the car. The others followed suit.

    Only one person stood by the car, watching them thoughtfully.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head as their gazes met.

    "Big Brother, you were truly impressive today!" Fu Yixing said mockingly. "Not only yourself, but even Sister-inw helped you shine."

    Fu Yihan nced at him indifferently and asked nonchntly, "What? Are you jealous?"

    "How could I dare!" Fu Yixing¡¯s lips curved in an eerie smile. "You¡¯re my eldest brother. Your sess is the Fu family¡¯s sess. Your happiness is the Fu family¡¯s happiness. How could I possibly dare?"

    Fu Yihan remainedposed, his frosty expression unchanged. "Good that you understand."

    With that, he looked straight ahead and said coldly, "Let¡¯s go."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curved upward, her tone cheerful.

    "Alright."

    Fu Yixing watched the two walk away, his eyes reddened slightly with anger, his gaze seething.

    As the two casually got into the car, no one noticed his expression at all.

    Sitting in the car, Su Qingnuan felt uneasy.

    She hadn¡¯t changed out of her performance outfit after leaving the stage. Wearing it now, sitting in the car, felt particrly awkward.

    The silk skirt clung to her legs or caught under her feet, refusing to cooperate no matter how much she adjusted.

    "Do you have ADHD?" The cool voice rang beside her, causing Su Qingnuan to pause and nce sideways.

    Fu Yihan appeared to be resting his eyes, as if those words hadn¡¯te from him.

    Su Qingnuan straightened her posture, not daring to fidget.

    Noticing her quiet obedience, Fu Yihan squinted slightly and looked over.

    She hung her head, her face full of worry.

    Her thick, curled eyshes fluttered like butterfly wings.

    Her delicate features were free of heavy makeup, the soft hues enhancing herplexion, making her look even more vibrant.

    Just based on her appearance alone, she was far superior to Su Yuerou.

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and closed his eyes again.

    Amid Su Qingnuan¡¯s unease, the car finally stopped in front of the Fu family residence.

    Su Qingnuan got out and stood to the side, waiting for Fu Yihan to settle himself into his wheelchair before pushing him inside.

    The elder Fu waited at the entrance and spoke as they approached, "Yihan, have you thought about the matter I discussed with you a few days ago?"

    Fu Yihan stayed silent.

    Seeing him pause, Su Qingnuan followed suit.

    Fu Yihan frowned. "What are you doing?"

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, then said softly, "Grandfather seems to have something he¡¯d like to say to you."

    The elder Fu nced at Su Qingnuan in surprise before turning to Fu Yihan, gripping the wheelchair¡¯s armrest. His tone turned stern. "Since you could attend today¡¯s music recital, why can¡¯t you attend the gathering? How much longer are you going to avoid it?"

    Fu Yihan nced at him indifferently. "Whether I go or not doesn¡¯t matter. Isn¡¯t Fu Yixing still around? Let him go."

    "Fu Yihan!" The elder Fu raised his voice. "Do you even hear yourself? I¡¯ve been pouring my efforts into cultivating you, and this is your response? How can you repay my dedication like this?"

    "Unnecessary."

 Chapter 22: Ulterior Motives

    <h4>Chapter 22: Chapter 22: Ulterior Motives</h4><h4></h4>

    His impatient gaze fell on Su Qingnuan, and he frowned, saying, "Are youing or not?"

    Su Qingnuan snapped back to reality and hurriedly pushed Fu Yihan forward.

    Old Master Fu stomped his feet angrily behind them but could do nothing.

    In the elevator, Su Qingnuan nced at Old Master Fu in the distance.

    He frowned deeply, his expression unpleasant.

    "Actually... after all, it¡¯s Grandpa¡¯s words..."

    Halfway through her sentence, Su Qingnuan suddenly shut her mouth and turned her head to the side.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s already cold gaze had now gained an icy sharpness that sent a shiver down her spine.

    Su Qingnuan turned her face away, avoiding his gaze.

    The elevator stopped, and Fu Yihan wheeled himself out.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurried after him, reaching out to grab the wheelchair handle.

    "Don¡¯t touch!"

    The icy tone froze Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand mid-air.

    "Find somewhere to stay, and don¡¯t show up in front of me."

    With that, Fu Yihan wheeled himself back into his room.

    Su Qingnuan looked around helplessly. The surrounding rooms were all guest rooms¡ªwhere could she stay?

    Just because of one sentence, she had been chased out of the room. Su Qingnuan let out a faint sigh.

    At this time, Fu Yihang and the Old Master were downstairs. Not wanting to join themotion, Su Qingnuan randomly opened the door to a guest room.

    The quiet guest room weed her, and Su Qingnuan walked toward the sofa.

    Closing her eyes and leaning back, Su Qingnuan savored the rare tranquility.

    Suddenly, a "thud-thud" sound came from behind.

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, turning her head.

    Behind the sofa, there were only a bed and a wardrobe¡ªnothing else.

    Was it her imagination?

    As the sound did not appear again, Su Qingnuan calmed herself and turned her attention away.

    However, just as she closed her eyes, the sound began again.

    What was going on?

    Su Qingnuan got up and circled around the bed but found nothing.

    She opened the wardrobe and nced inside. Empty.

    This was strange¡ªwhere was the sounding from?

    "Thud-thud-thud¡ª"

    The clear noise prompted Su Qingnuan to look toward the wall beside her.

    The sound wasing from there.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, pressing her ear against the wall.

    "Thud¡ªthud¡ªthud¡ª"

    The sound of hard objects striking, one blow after another.

    She remembered the room next door was also a guest room¡ªcould someone be staying there?

    Su Qingnuan, puzzled, left the guest room and stood at the door of the neighboring room.

    Strangely enough, while the sounds were clear inside the room, they were not nearly as loud outside the door.

    "Knock-knock-knock¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan knocked on the door and asked, "Is anyone there?"

    There was no response from inside.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, grasped the door handle, and tried to twist it.

    The handle turned halfway and suddenly got stuck.

    It was locked from the inside.

    Now, Su Qingnuan could be certain: there was indeed someone inside.

    "Knock-knock-knock¡ª" Su Qingnuan raised her voice, "Who¡¯s in there?"

    Still no response. Su Qingnuan nced at the empty corridor behind her and said, "I know someone¡¯s inside. If you don¡¯te out, I¡¯ll call for someone."

    As soon as she finished speaking, the door opened abruptly.

    Fu Yihang stood at the entrance with a cold face, hisplexion livid as he expressed his current mood.

    His bathrobe was loosely wrapped around him, his hair disheveled.

    "...Why are you here?"

    Su Qingnuan remembered that Fu Yihang¡¯s room was not in this direction¡ªhe shouldn¡¯t be staying here.

    "This is my house. Is there any problem with me being here?" Fu Yihang replied bluntly.

    Su Qingnuan frowned, shook her head, and stepped back. "Sorry to bother you, carry on."

    Fu Yihang¡¯s expression darkened; he grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s wrist and shouted angrily, "What did you say?"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly: "I didn¡¯t say anything..."

    She hadn¡¯t even asked anything, yet this man had changed his expression. Could he really be hiding something?

    "Enough with the nonsense! What did you hear?" Fu Yihang¡¯s eyes held a dangerous edge as he stared at her intently.

    "...I only heard the sound of someone knocking on the wall, so I wanted to see what was happening here." Su Qingnuan kept her eyes on his face as she spoke, noticing his increasingly abnormal reaction. She quickly added, "I just wanted to ask about it; I don¡¯t know anything about what you¡¯re doing!"

    "....."

    Fu Yihang took a deep breath and let go of Su Qingnuan.

    "Remember your own words¡ªremember that you know nothing." Fu Yihang spoke cautiously.

    Su Qingnuan nodded frantically, "Yes! I don¡¯t know anything!"

    "Bang¡ª"

    The door mmed shut right in front of Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan touched her forehead helplessly and turned to head back to her initial guest room.

    Arriving at her room door, Su Qingnuan noticed that Fu Yihan¡¯s room door was open.

    Wasn¡¯t it closed before?

    Su Qingnuan cautiously approached the door, quietly pushed it open.

    The sofa was empty.

    Su Qingnuan quickly walked inside, closed the door, and slipped quietly into her room.

    Back in her room, Su Qingnuan exhaled deeply.

    She always felt more secure resting in a space with her belongings.

    Su Qingnuan changed clothes andy down, nning to rest.

    But fate seemed to enjoy ying tricks on her. Just as she started to feel sleepy, noises erupted outside.

    In her grogginess, she heard her own name being mentioned. Su Qingnuan opened her eyes hazily.

    "That¡¯s your own brother, after all!"

    This was...

    Su Qingnuan sat up and walked to the door.

    "No matter how bad your rtionship is as brothers, you shouldn¡¯t let an outsider bully your younger brother, right?"

    Yun Meifeng...

    Why would she appear in Fu Yihan¡¯s room? Fu Yihan always disliked her¡ªwhy was he being so generous today, letting her in?

    Su Qingnuan frowned, pressing her ear against the door to listen to themotion outside.

    "I¡¯ve never acknowledged this younger brother."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice was still cold and emotionless.

    "Yihan...." Yun Meifeng crouched down, lowering her stance. "I know you¡¯ve always resented me, but Yihang is innocent! The grudges of our generation have nothing to do with you, the next generation. You¡¯re brothers; you should be helping each other, right?"

    "Ha!" Fu Yihan let out a cold chuckle and turned his wheelchair around. "If there¡¯s an outsider in this family, it¡¯s you¡ªthe biggest one. No name, no title, yet you cling to this house and refuse to leave."

    "..."

    A shadow flickered in Yun Meifeng¡¯s eyes, but she quickly restrained herself.

    Wiping away nonexistent tears from the corners of her eyes, she softly sobbed, "Yihan, Auntie may not have an official status now, but that isn¡¯t important. I¡¯m Yihang¡¯s mother, which makes me half a mother to you, too. You can still..."

    "Get out!"

    A pillow suddenly mmed toward her, cutting off Yun Meifeng¡¯s words.

    Yun Meifeng widened her eyes in shock, staring at him.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze was icy, his expression anything but calm.

    "I said, get out! Don¡¯t understand humannguage?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s temper red; he grabbed the ss cup on the table and hurled it toward Yun Meifeng.

    Yun Meifeng froze, standing there without dodging.

    "Ahhh!"

    Yun Meifeng clutched her forehead and crouched down.

    The door was pushed open, and Fu Yihang rushed in.

    "Mom! Are you okay?"

    Yun Meifeng held her forehead, her lips pale. She gave a gentle smile and said, "I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine. You go out first."

 Chapter 23 The Old Masteréˆ¥æªš Accusation

    <h4>Chapter 23: Chapter 23 The Old Master¡¯s usation</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan helped Yun Meifeng stand up, frowned as he looked at Fu Yihan, and gritted his teeth: "Fu Yihan, you¡¯ve gone too far!"

    Yun Meifeng quickly pulled Fu Yihan back, speaking softly: "Don¡¯t me your brother, it¡¯s my words that were out of line."

    "What did you say that would make him treat you like this? You¡¯re an elder! No matter what was said, he shouldn¡¯t have treated you this way!"

    Yun Meifeng smiled faintly and shook her head, releasing the hand covering her forehead.

    A line of blood trickled down her forehead.

    Fu Yihan eximed in shock: "She¡¯s bleeding!"

    Yun Meifeng froze briefly, puzzled, and looked at the palm of her hand.

    Her palm was stained with blood, and Yun Meifeng stared at the bloodstain for a moment before suddenly closing her eyes and fainting.

    Fu Yihan supported Yun Meifeng, his eyes full of hatred as he red at Fu Yihan: "You just wait!"

    He carried Yun Meifeng on his back and left the room.

    Fu Yihan witnessed the entire ordeal, yet there wasn¡¯t a trace of emotion in his expression.

    Once the door closed, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and looked toward the door on the right.

    "Come out."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice carried an unyielding authority,ced with intense hostility.

    The door slowly opened, and Su Qingnuan carefully stepped out.

    "Well... um..." Su Qingnuan nervously fiddled with her hair, "I didn¡¯t mean to eavesdrop. I just woke up and overheard you talking."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan nced at her indifferently, then turned his back to her.

    "Go bring me some wine."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze fell toward his feet, perplexed: "You¡¯re still drinking?"

    Fu Yihan stopped, turned to look at her.

    The cold stare sent Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart racing.

    "I got it!" Su Qingnuan quickly opened the door and stepped out.

    The bodyguards stationed at the entrance lowered their heads in greeting as Su Qingnuan came out.

    "Uh-huh!" Su Qingnuan smiled and asked, "Fu Yihan said he wants wine. Where¡¯s his stash?"

    "The wine cer is in the basement, it¡¯s specially stocked with red wine. Look for the bottlesbeled ¡¯Eldest Young Master.¡¯"

    "Oh, got it!" Su Qingnuan nodded in understanding and quickly jogged downstairs.

    As she passed through the living room, Su Qingnuan saw Fu Yihan and Yun Meifeng standing there, seemingly in the middle of a conversation.

    After retrieving red wine from the wine cer, Su Qingnuan found that the people in the living room were already gone.

    She nced around in confusion but didn¡¯t dare linger and headed upstairs.

    Seeing the door ajar, Su Qingnuan pushed it open and walked in.

    "Fu Yihan, I found..."

    As soon as she saw the people inside the room, Su Qingnuan swallowed her words abruptly.

    Old Master Fu was sitting across from Fu Yihan, the two locked in tense confrontation.

    The atmosphere in the room was off, and Su Qingnuan nced at the bottle of red wine in her hands, quietly hiding it behind her back.

    Old Master Fu¡¯s cold gazended on her: "Since you brought it, then put it down."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated briefly and looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan remained unmoved, his expression indifferent.

    "Why are you looking at him?" Old Master Fu¡¯s tone became sharper, "I told you to put it down."

    Su Qingnuan quickly and cautiously stepped forward, carefully cing the red wine bottle down.

    Looking at the lone bottle of red wine on the table, the smile at the corner of Old Master Fu¡¯s mouth grew colder.

    "You know your body isn¡¯t suitable for drinking, and yet you still indulge?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze was frigid: "Whether I drink or not, it won¡¯t change anything, so why not drink?"

    "...Fu Yihan!" Old Master Fu pped his thigh in fury, "Are you trying to provoke me so you can feel at peace?"

    Fu Yihan curled his lips into a mocking smile: "I wouldn¡¯t dare."

    "Wouldn¡¯t dare? Given how you¡¯ve behaved, it seems the only things left you haven¡¯t done are arson and murder!"

    "Oh? If I didmit arson or murder, wouldn¡¯t you still find a way to protect me?"

    "..."

    Old Master Fu suddenly stood up, barking angrily: "Fu Yihan! Don¡¯t you push it too far! Yun Meifeng¡¯s injury was caused by you, wasn¡¯t it? If this continues, do you n to overthrow the heavens?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes finally hinted at amusement: "Haven¡¯t I already done that?"

    Old Master Fu¡¯s gaze burned with fury, but he remained fixed on Fu Yihan without making a move.

    After a long silence, Old Master Fu turned his eyes toward Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan froze, an ominous feeling creeping into her heart.

    "Qingnuan! We let you marry into this family hoping you¡¯d assist Fu Yihan. But now, you¡¯re just standing by, letting him act recklessly?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan bowed her head without saying a word.

    How did their argument end up involving her?

    "Although you¡¯ve only been married for a few days, you¡¯ve seen how much freedom we¡¯ve given you. You¡¯re now Mrs. Fu, and the entire Fu family listens to you. If you can¡¯t even manage this small matter with Fu Yihan, how are we supposed to trust you?"

    "...Grandfather is right." Su Qingnuan nodded.

    Fu Yihan nced at her submissive demeanor, a wry smile shing across his face.

    "You¡¯re husband and wife now; you should be of one mind. No matter what he does, you must guide him. Understand?" Old Master Fu¡¯s words were directed at Su Qingnuan, but his gaze never left Fu Yihan.

    Clearly, he was speaking through her to rebuke Fu Yihan.

    Su Qingnuan felt aggrieved but still nodded and replied: "Understood."

    Seeing her reluctant expression, Old Master Fu snorted coldly: "What? Don¡¯t like my nagging or think I¡¯m wrong?"

    Su Qingnuan dared not respond.

    "Of course not." Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled politely: "Grandfather, you¡¯re absolutely right. I¡¯ll... I¡¯ll work on guiding Yihan better."

    "Good." Old Master Fu¡¯s anger dissipated significantly as he slowly sat down. "About Yun Meifeng, apologize to her this time."

    Fu Yihan raised a brow: "No."

    "You were the one to harm her first. If word of this spreads, what will people think of us?" Old Master Fu¡¯s deep voice carried authority.

    But Fu Yihan remained unimpressed, chuckling coldly as he turned and entered his room.

    "Hey!" Old Master Fu quickly stood up and followed, "Fu Yihan! Are you a child, acting so willful?"

    "Bang¡ª"

    The door mmed shut right in front of Old Master Fu.

    Old Master Fu angrily pounded the door, but no response came from inside.

    After a long moment, Old Master Fu turned to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan immediately straightened her posture and spoke softly: "Don¡¯t worry, Grandfather, I¡¯ll make sure to talk to him!"

    "Hm." Old Master Fu nodded in satisfaction, his expression softening as he looked at her. "A marriage works best when the couple supports each other¡ªthat¡¯s what makes it longsting."

    Su Qingnuan forced a smile and nodded: "Yes, Grandfather, your advice is wise."

    Old Master Fu patted Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder and made his way toward the door.

    Su Qingnuan exhaled deeply and prepared to follow, but suddenly, Old Master Fu stopped.

    He turned his head to nce at a partially open door on the right, his expression curious: "When was Yihan¡¯s room partitioned off? What¡¯s inside?"

    Su Qingnuan felt her heart skip a beat and quickly stepped forward, blocking the view of the slightly open door.

    "Grandfather, it¡¯s a space Yihan cleared for me just to store my piano."

 Chapter 24 Persuasion

    <h4>Chapter 24: Chapter 24 Persuasion</h4><h4></h4>

    Master Fu gave her a nce and said thoughtfully, "Though your piano ying is quite good, I¡¯m getting old, and my sleep is light at night. It¡¯s best if you refrain from practicing in the evenings."

    "...Of course." Su Yuerou smiled faintly. "Don¡¯t worry, Grandpa, I¡¯ll be mindful of the time."

    Master Fu nodded and left with his bodyguards.

    Once the door closed, Su Yuerou finally straightened herself.

    That was way too close!

    She nced back at Fu Yihan¡¯s door, a sudden doubt arising within her.

    Why does Master Fu always push for Fu Yihan to socialize with others?

    Tiptoeing to his door, Su Yuerou raised her hand.

    But just as her fingers touched the door, she froze.

    When ites to these matters in the Fu family, it¡¯s really not her ce to interfere. Why should she be the viin here?

    Su Yuerou withdrew her hand and turned away.

    But...

    If she ignored it, wouldn¡¯t the one who suffered in the end still be her?

    Just like today. Master Fu, unable to persuade his grandson, vented all his frustration on her.

    Clenching her teeth, Su Yuerou stepped back to the door.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    She knocked softly, her gaze fixated nervously on the door.

    "Click¡ª"

    The door opened slowly from the inside, revealing Fu Yihan with his cold expression, seated in his wheelchair.

    "Um..." Su Yuerou instinctively took a step back. "I just wanted to ask if everything¡¯s okay? If you need anything, you can call me; I¡¯m right next door. Or perhaps, if you need something to eat, I could¡ª"

    What on earth was she rambling about?

    Seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze grow colder, Su Yuerou finally stopped herself.

    She let out a sigh of defeat and lowered her head.

    "Grandpa asked me to try to persuade you."

    "Ha!" Fu Yihan chuckled coldly, a sh of disdain crossing his face. "Do you think you can persuade me?"

    "...No."

    If even the family members who had lived with him all these years couldn¡¯t move him, how could Su Yuerou possibly seed?

    Even though she expected this oue, the scorn in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes still struck a nerve deep inside her.

    Lowering her gaze, Su Yuerou hid her emotions behind her downcast eyelids.

    "If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll just¡ª"

    "Su Yuerou."

    She paused, her head snapping up in surprise.

    Meeting her shocked gaze, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved ever so slightly, a rare glimmer of amusement shing in his eyes.

    "So it really is you."

    Su Yuerou¡¯s legs trembled as she tried to stand firm. "You... How did you know...?"

    Fu Yihan sneered, turning his wheelchair away.

    "If you want to y the part of Su Yuerou, yet keep revealing the cracks of Su Qingnuan¡ªSu Qingnuan, do you truly think you can pull off being the Fu family¡¯s Eldest Young Madam?"

    "..."

    "Bang¡ª"

    The door mmed shut again, leaving Su Yuerou staring nkly at the tightly closed door, speechless.

    She knew she would be found out, but she hadn¡¯t expected it to happen so soon.

    She had nned to bide her time, thinking that even if he saw through the fact that she wasn¡¯t Su Yuerou, as long as he didn¡¯t know who she truly was, it would be easier for her to make a clean exitter.

    But it only took a few days for him to unravel everything.

    If Fu Yihan could recognize her so quickly, what about the others?

    Su Yuerou shot to her feet, heading straight to her room.

    She couldn¡¯t afford to give up. Fu Yihan was right¡ªif she was going to y Su Yuerou, she needed to fully be her without leaving any ws for others to see.

    She began gathering all the information about Su Yuerou on her phone andpiled it into a booklet.

    Though they were born into the same family, they had always receivedpletely different treatment.

    Su Yuerou understood that the biggest difference between her and Su Yuerou was confidence.

    No matter what Su Yuerou did, she always wore a bright smile, brimming with self-assurance.

    Whereas Su Qingnuan often kept her head down, hiding herself in the shadows, avoiding others whenever she could.

    Looking at the notebook of analyzed personality traits, Su Yuerou frowned slightly.

    Their personalities were worlds apart. Could this really work?

    Carrying these doubts, Su Yuerou began her journey of impersonating Su Yuerou the next day.

    But things didn¡¯t go as smoothly as she¡¯d hoped.

    When she saw Fu Yihaning out of his room, Su Yuerou took a deep breath and walked over.

    "Let me help you."

    She reached out and pushed Fu Yihan along.

    He nced at her but said nothing.

    During breakfast, the whole family gathered around the table as usual.

    Voices buzzed,ughter rang out, but on Su Yuerou¡¯s side, silence loomed.

    Throwing a nce at Fu Yihan, who was quietly eating beside her, Su Yuerou suddenly asked, "Do you want some water?"

    Fu Yihan paused, narrowing his eyes at her.

    Her whole body tensed as if a chill ran through her, but quickly she clenched her fists and asked again, "Would you like some water?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled faintly before he turned his gaze away.

    "No."

    Lowering her head, Su Yuerou alone could hear the thunderous pounding of her heart.

    For a moment, when Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes bore into her, she truly thought he might take a swing at her.

    Thankfully, he restrained himself.

    Having tested the waters twice, Su Yuerou was gradually finding her voice in his presence.

    Seeing this, Master Fu mistook it as the pair growing closer emotionally.

    One day, the Fu family hosted a banquet.

    Invitations to events from outside families could be declined, but missing a banquet hosted by the Fu family itself was unthinkable.

    Fu Yihan locked himself in his room, refusing to change.

    Downstairs, Master Fu flew into a rage, his anger silencing everyone around him. The stalemate between grandfather and grandson lingered in the air.

    Noticing the outfit in the bodyguard¡¯s hands, Su Yuerou hesitated, then offered, "How about I give it a try?"

    The bodyguard nced at her before handing her the clothes.

    Holding the outfit, Su Yuerou moved forward.

    "The Eldest Young Master dislikes others entering the study. Are you sure about this, Eldest Young Madam?"

    "....."

    Su Yuerou¡¯s hands shook slightly as she gripped the clothing tighter. After a deep breath, she stepped forward determinedly.

    Carefully pushing open the study door, she barely cracked it before something came flying at her.

    "Ah!"

    Unable to dodge, she got hit squarely.

    A sharp object struck her nose, and Su Yuerou sat down, clutching her nose as tears welled up.

    Hearing her cry out, Fu Yihan froze for a moment.

    Turning back, he saw her pitiful figure sitting at the threshold, looking at him helplessly. His brows furrowed. "What are you doing here?"

    His tone was so blunt that Su Yuerou instantly realized staying any longer might result in her being thrown out.

    Propping herself up, she slowly closed the door behind her.

    Fu Yihan frowned even harder and put down the book in his hands, staring at her in silence.

    "Well..." Su Yuerou rubbed her nose and gestured to the outfit in her hands. "Grandpa is waiting downstairs. Please put this on."

    Seeing her earnest expression, Fu Yihan suddenly chuckled.

    "Su Yuerou, do you really see yourself as the Eldest Young Madam?"

    Though he smiled, his eyes remained cold.

    Biting down, Su Yuerou said firmly, "Right now, I *am* the Fu family¡¯s Eldest Young Madam."

    Her facade ofposure, in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes, was nothing more than a pitiful act¡ªher deeply ingrained insecurity ringly obvious beneath the surface.

 Chapter 25 Perseverance

    <h4>Chapter 25: Chapter 25 Perseverance</h4><h4></h4>

    But behind those timid eyes, there was a hint of unexinable determination.

    Fu Yihan frowned, staring at her.

    Su Qingnuan felt her scalp tingling under his icy gaze, almost ready to surrender.

    However, her strong willpower reminded her that she was now Su Yuerou, she was confident.

    Forcing herself to straighten her back, Su Qingnuan continued, "If you don¡¯t change your clothes and go downstairs, people will gossip, and by then, our marriage will be aughingstock."

    Fu Yihan squinted, looking her up and down.

    Su Qingnuan stood tall, fear evident in her eyes, yet she still looked at him resolutely.

    How interesting...

    Fu Yihan wheeled forward and stopped in front of Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan paused, resisting the urge to take a step back.

    Although she was technically in a higher position, shepletelycked any sense of superiority.

    This man, sitting in a wheelchair, possessed an imposing presence that overshadowed Su Qingnuan.

    "You want me to change these clothes?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded.

    "Okay." Fu Yihan looked at her nonchntly, "I can change, butter you¡¯ll have to announce in front of everyone that you are Su Qingnuan."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan blinked, her eyes full of confusion and puzzlement.

    A sly smile appeared on Fu Yihan¡¯s handsome face, "Since you are Su Qingnuan, then be Su Qingnuan; the appearance of Su Yuerou doesn¡¯t suit you."

    "But....." Your marriage partner is Su Yuerou! Suddenly changing to Su Qingnuan, how would people outside talk?

    "But what?" Fu Yihan looked at her with disdain, "Afraid?"

    Su Qingnuan suddenly fell silent.

    If living as Su Yuerou, then Su Qingnuan would be free.

    Admitting her identity as Su Qingnuan would mean that she would legitimately be Fu Yihan¡¯s wife.

    So after the contract ends, how should they define their rtionship?

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, speaking softly, "Eldest Young Master, if you¡¯re just trying to toy with me, there¡¯s no need. I don¡¯t covet the position of Mrs. Fu."

    "Oh?" Fu Yihan looked at her expressionlessly, "Aren¡¯t you happy to rightfully take this position?"

    "Happy?" Su Qingnuan suddenly raised her head, looking at Fu Yihan, "Do you think I came here willingly? If I could, I wouldn¡¯t have met any of you that day!"

    If it weren¡¯t for that woman drugging her, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this.

    The only thing she has left now is this clean name; Su Qingnuan cannot let it be ruined by this already unbearable rtionship.

    "Eldest Young Master, whether or not you wear these clothes, I won¡¯t do as you say. I¡¯ll leave the clothes here and go first."

    With that said, Su Qingnuan turned, opened the door, and left without hesitation.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t know that as she turned, tears rolled down her cheeks and dropped onto the ground.

    Fu Yihan lowered his gaze, staring thoughtfully at the dark stain on the floor.

    ...

    The bodyguard saw Su Qingnuane out empty-handed and asked quizzically, "Did the Eldest Young Master agree to change?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head with a wry smile, "No, I just left the clothes inside."

    "..... It¡¯s okay, you¡¯ve done your best."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, standing next to the bodyguard.

    If Fu Yihan didn¡¯te out, they couldn¡¯t go downstairs; this was the order of Master Fu.

    Everyone no longer hoped that he woulde out, leisurely standing at the door, idling away the time.

    "Click¡ª¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan suddenly looked up towards the study door.

    The door slowly opened, and Fu Yihan, dressed in formal attire, wheeled out expressionlessly.

    Su Qingnuan happily looked at the bodyguard, "He came out!"

    The bodyguard nodded slightly, not showing his feelings, and walked over.

    "Eldest Young Master, the master is already waiting downstairs."

    "Mm."

    Fu Yihan changed direction, wheeling himself towards the elevator.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurried to follow.

    The Fu family gathering was held on thewn outside the vi.

    Su Qingnuan automatically went behind Fu Yihan, pushing him outside.

    The colorful lights outlined an unusual scene on thewn.

    Balloons tied to tables and chairs made it look especially dreamy.

    Su Qingnuan was in a good mood, a smile on her lips.

    "Is that the Eldest Young Master of the Fu family?"

    A sudden voice made Su Qingnuan unconsciously slow her pace.

    "Is it? I heard that since the car ident, the Eldest Young Master rarely shows himself, maybe it really is him."

    "Sitting in a wheelchair, it must be him. Paralyzed legs, it¡¯s really pitiful!"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression slightly paused, lowering her gaze towards Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold face was expressionless, allowing Su Qingnuan to push him forward.

    "Quite handsome, what a pity. If he weren¡¯t paralyzed, many girls would chase him wanting to marry him!"

    "Shh! Don¡¯t say that, I heard he has a bad temper! If he hears you, you might be in trouble!"

    "Is it really that serious? Forget it, I won¡¯t say it anymore...."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan suddenly changed direction.

    The bodyguard looked at Su Qingnuan in confusion, stopping her, "Young Madam?"

    Su Qingnuan frowned, speaking softly, "We should go back; after all, Grandpa doesn¡¯t know we came out."

    Fu Yihan gave her an unexpected look, sneering, "Weren¡¯t you the one who wanted me toe out? Why are you having second thoughts?"

    Su Qingnuan bit her lip, staying silent, but persistently pushing Fu Yihan.

    The bodyguard slightly frowned, looking at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan chuckled lightly, waving his hand.

    The bodyguard promptly released his hold.

    Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan back inside.

    "Su Qingnuan, you better think it through. If you send me back now, the news will spread tomorrow that the Eldest Young Master of the Fu family is ashamed to be seen, retreating into his shell at the slightest gossip."

    She stopped her steps.

    Su Qingnuan nced at his expressionless side profile, cautiously asking, "Aren¡¯t you angry?"

    "Angry?" Fu Yihanughed nonchntly, "A rational discussion is better than pointless sympathy."

    Su Qingnuan: "....."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t urge her, sitting in his wheelchair, quietly waiting for her next move.

    After a long silence, Su Qingnuan walked to the front and crouched down.

    Fu Yihan lowered his gaze, watching her ce her hand on his leg.

    Through the nket, he could still feel the scorching warmth.

    "Fu Yihan, I owe you an apology this time. Now, I¡¯m pushing you out, no matter what you face, I will bear it with you. I¡¯m sorry."

    Fu Yihan was slightly stunned.

    She stood up, moved to the back of Fu Yihan, changed direction, and pushed him out the door again.

    The nearby bodyguard thoughtfully cleared the way for them.

    With mental preparation, Su Qingnuan ignored the gossip, steadfastly pushing Fu Yihan forward.

 Chapter 26 Thank you

    <h4>Chapter 26: Chapter 26 Thank you</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan apanied Fu Yihan to Fu¡¯s grandfather, receiving a gratified look from the old man.

    "Yihan, this is your uncle, in the future..."

    Fu¡¯s grandfather tirelessly introduced rtives to Fu Yihan.

    However, Fu Yihan remained indifferent, showing no interest.

    Su Qingnuan stood behind Fu Yihan, like a steadfast gatekeeper.

    For every guest that approached, Fu¡¯s grandfather would introduce Su Qingnuan, referring to her as Mrs. Fu.

    Fu Yihan had a faint smile on his lips, politely acknowledging them.

    Among those present, there were few familiar faces but mostly strangers.

    By the end, Su Qingnuan could no longer distinguish whom she had greeted.

    Once the guests had made their rounds, Fu¡¯s grandfather finally ceased his introductions.

    He took the microphone from the servant and smiled: "Today, I¡¯ve invited everyone here mainly to introduce my granddaughter-inw, Su Yuerou!"

    A spotlight illuminated Su Qingnuan.

    Squinting slightly, Su Qingnuan bent her body slightly, bowing in greeting.

    "Yihan doesn¡¯t enjoy crowded events, so the wedding was kept modest. But it¡¯s important to introduce her to everyone. Earlier, I introduced her to you one by one, so you can¡¯t im not to recognize my granddaughter-inw from now on!"

    "Of course not! If the old man has spoken, we¡¯ll be sure to keep our eyes wide open and remember clearly!"

    A burst ofughter reverberated, and Fu¡¯s grandfather handed the microphone to Fu Yihan, softly suggesting, "Say a few words as well?"

    Fu Yihan cast him a cold nce but didn¡¯t speak.

    Seeing this, Fu¡¯s grandfather handed the microphone back to the servant, visibly disappointed.

    Originally a mere observer, Su Qingnuan suddenly found herself engulfed by the bustling circle of the gathering.

    Numerous socialites and wealthy wives gathered around, scrutinizing Su Qingnuan.

    Compared to the previous introductions from Fu¡¯s grandfather, these women¡¯s attitudes were noticeably more enthusiastic.

    "Oh! Yuerou, is that outfit thetest collection? I saw it with the designer before¡ªheard it¡¯s not for sale!"

    Su Qingnuan raised a hand, lightly touching the ne at her cor.

    It had been handed to her by Fu¡¯s grandfather, without exnation, simply requesting her to wear it.

    Su Qingnuan gave an awkward smile and nodded, saying, "Yes."

    "Oh, Yuerou, you¡¯re truly blessed! The Fu family treats you so well! The Su family couldn¡¯t manage something like this, could it?"

    "...It¡¯s adequate," she replied.

    Though the Su family could notpare to the Fu family, it was still a prominent and affluent family. How had ite to be regarded in such a dismissive manner?

    "The Fu family really is better. Look at how virtuous Yihan is¡ªone day, you¡¯ll be the sole Mrs. Fu of the family. Not like my scoundrel at home, still..."

    When speaking of virtue, the woman deliberately nced at Fu Yihan, an unmistakable hint of disdain shing in her eyes¡ªsomething Su Qingnuan caught clearly.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression subtly shifted, and she took a step back.

    "Yihan still needs my care; I must take my leave now."

    With that, she left without another word.

    "What a show she¡¯s putting on! Keeping such a stern face! She thinks she¡¯s something special just because she¡¯s married into wealth?"

    "Don¡¯t say that. It¡¯s not easy entering the elite circle, andcking ability, she must struggle to be happy, don¡¯t you think?"

    "Haha, when you put it like that..."

    The harsh and demeaning wordsnded straight into Su Qingnuan¡¯s ear.

    Her brows furrowed tighter, and for reasons unknown, hearing them speak of Fu Yihan this way left her feeling slightly uneasy.

    ...

    Fu Yihan, bored, toyed with the wine ss in his hand. If attending the gathering provided any benefit to him, it was probably the unrestricted ess to alcohol.

    "Grandfather said you shouldn¡¯t drink¡ªyour health can¡¯t take it."

    A soft voice made Fu Yihan look up.

    Su Qingnuan stood beside him, her round, wide eyes fixed on him seriously.

    Fu Yihan raised a brow and remarked, "Mrs. Fu herself, eh? Why not continue mingling in the socialite circle?"

    Su Qingnuan said nothing, her gaze settling on his hand.

    Following her gaze, Fu Yihan chuckled coldly: "Do you truly think you¡¯re Mrs. Fu? Are you nning to control me?"

    Su Qingnuan remained silent, afraid her reproachful gaze would fall directly on him.

    Fu Yihan: "...."

    Almost instinctively, Fu Yihan put down the wine ss, turning his back to her with an expressionless face.

    Upon seeing this, the corners of Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips finally lifted into a smile.

    "Let me take you to the snacks. The kitchen prepared lots of delicious treats today," Su Qingnuan said with a smile.

    "Not hungry."

    Despite his protest, Su Qingnuan had already started pushing the wheelchair forward.

    Looking surprised, Fu Yihan asked, "What do you intend to do?"

    "You didn¡¯t eat anything for dinner, and you¡¯ve had alcohol. Eat a little something to avoid a stomachacheter."

    With that, Su Qingnuan had arrived at the snack table, selecting a few delicacies on a small te before handing it to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly, making no move to ept it.

    Su Qingnuan turned to nce at the nearby bodyguard and asked, "Do you want some?"

    The bodyguard blinked in surprise, hastily shaking his head.

    "Ah... such a waste."

    Saying this, Su Qingnuan skewered a piece and popped it into her mouth.

    "Ha!" Fu Yihan sneered. "Bringing me over was just an excuse, wasn¡¯t it? You simply wanted to eat, didn¡¯t you?"

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly, her eyes lit with a spark as she looked at him. "Not at all. Let me get you some more."

    "...."

    Watching Su Qingnuan¡¯s bouncing silhouette retreat, Fu Yihan nced at the bodyguard, furrowing his brows. "Didn¡¯t she hear me just now?"

    The bodyguard coughed awkwardly and turned away.

    Before long, Su Qingnuan returned with another te¡ªthis timeden with more options.

    "I wasn¡¯t sure what you liked, so I picked two types. This one is chilled and spicy; this one¡¯s dessert and sweet; then there¡¯s..."

    Speaking with earnest detail, Su Qingnuan used her clean, slender fingers to point at each item, apanying each gesture with a thorough exnation.

    Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help following the movement of her finger, listening to her chatter for a good while.

    "That¡¯s all for now. Choose whichever you like to eat."

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes, observing her thoughtfully. "You seem very familiar with food."

    Su Qingnuan blushed slightly,ughing softly. "Actually, I read about them from books. Because of health reasons, there are many things I can¡¯t eat."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gazended on the empty tes nearby, which earlier had only contained a few identical-looking pastries.

    "Then what can you eat?" Fu Yihan, taking the small te, asked nonchntly.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan smiled and extended her fingers, earnestly beginning to count. "Actually, there¡¯s quite a bit I can eat, but I have to watch the quantity. For example, spicy foods are fine in small portions just to sample the vor, not more. And salty dishes¡ªthose as well can¡¯t be eaten in excess."

    With Su Qingnuan¡¯s soft voice as his backdrop, Fu Yihan unconsciously polished off an entire te of snacks.

    Noticing his surprise, the bodyguard took the empty te and handed him another one.

    Fu Yihan gave a cold re to the bodyguard, his icy gaze sharp.

    The bodyguard turned his face away, still holding the te toward him.

    "Not eating anymore?" Su Qingnuan asked, stunned. "But this one is delicious too. I only sampled a pinch earlier; you should try it."

    Fu Yihan: "...."

 Chapter 27 Bad Guys? Good Guys?

    <h4>Chapter 27: Chapter 27 Bad Guys? Good Guys?</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan tilted his head, his face full of rejection.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and took back the te.

    "Did you like the one you just ate? If you do, I can get you some more."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t speak, but he turned his head back, now facing Su Qingnuan directly.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly and stood up, heading toward the dining table.

    Watching Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheerful figure retreating, a barely noticeable glimmer of amusement passed through Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, carefully discerning what she¡¯d just picked up earlier.

    Suddenly, there was a collision on her right side.

    Su Qingnuan took a step to the side and turned her head to look.

    Fu Yixing was holding a te, his expression somewhere between a smile and a sneer as he looked at her.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and moved another step aside.

    Fu Yixing¡¯s face darkened slightly as he leaned closer to Su Qingnuan, gritting his teeth: "What¡¯s the matter? Is being close to me so unbearable for you?"

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows, lowered her gaze, and remained silent.

    Seeing she wasn¡¯t responding, Fu Yixing tightened his grip slightly on the te, his left shoulder brushing against Su Qingnuan.

    "Not speaking? Turned mute?"

    "..."

    Suddenly, Su Qingnuan straightened her posture, holding her te, and walked toward Fu Yihan.

    The interactions between the two just now were all taken in by Fu Yihan. He watched her scurry over with the te as if escaping.

    "Mr. Fu, is this enough?"

    Fu Yihan nced at her, his expression indifferent, as he epted the te.

    After tasting one bite, Fu Yihan frowned: "Too sweet."

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly. Isn¡¯t this the same as what he ate earlier?

    Fu Yihan raised his hand.

    Su Qingnuan hurried to reach out and take the te.

    But in the next moment, Fu Yihan pulled back his hand and nced at her.

    The coldness in his eyes stunned Su Qingnuan.

    "Push me over," Fu Yihan said.

    Before Su Qingnuan could act, the bodyguard had already moved behind Fu Yihan and began pushing him toward the dining table.

    As they passed by Su Qingnuan, the bodyguard softly reminded her: "Madam, follow along."

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of her daze and followed behind the two of them, looking visibly aggrieved.

    The bodyguard pushed Fu Yihan to the edge of the dining table, positioning him exactly next to Fu Yixing, who had his head down mumbling something to himself.

    Those around who noticed Fu Yihan instinctively held their breath.

    The reputation of this Demon King was well-known in their circles, and no one dared provoke him.

    Sensing the heavy atmosphere around, Fu Yixing turned his head.

    Meeting Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, Fu Yixing hastily set down his te and called out earnestly, "Big Brother!"

    Fu Yihan nced at him: "Eating?"

    The rarely calm tone left Fu Yixing particrly astonished.

    "...Yes."

    Fu Yihan curled his lips slightly and ced the te in his hand beside Fu Yixing: "Here, take this."

    Fu Yixing¡¯s expression shifted subtly, his gaze toward Fu Yihan bing increasinglyplex.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "Don¡¯t like it?"

    Fu Yixing didn¡¯t respond, staring at him deeply, his expression inscrutable.

    Seeing he wasn¡¯t speaking, Fu Yihan tapped the pastry with a fork, his brows furrowing. "Well, you¡¯ve known since you were little¡ªI don¡¯t like people touching my things."

    Setting the fork down, Fu Yihan looked at Fu Yixing again, his gaze profound.

    "Not even the things I don¡¯t want¡ªI don¡¯t like others touching them either."

    Fu Yixing stared at him, his expressionplicated and still silent.

    Suddenly, Fu Yihan cracked a smile, a cryptic one filled with implications.

    "Of course, if you do touch them, it¡¯s fine. As for the consequences..." He pressed his lips together and smirked oddly: "You¡¯ve experienced them, haven¡¯t you?"

    Fu Yixing¡¯s body suddenly shuddered, retreating a step.

    Fu Yihan gazed at him coldly, like a demon from hell extending its ws relentlessly toward him.

    Covering his cor, Fu Yixing mumbled a few words and quickly turned to leave.

    Watching Fu Yixing¡¯s figure fleeing in panic, Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curled into a subtle smile.

    Fu Yihan turned his head and saw the traces of amusement in her eyes. He frowned: "What are you smiling about?"

    "Nothing!" Su Qingnuan answered sheepishly, lowering her head. "I wasn¡¯t looking at anything."

    Fu Yihan nced at the bodyguard and asked: "Did you see herughing?"

    The bodyguard looked toward Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan lifted her gaze, putting on a pitiful expression as she looked back at him.

    The bodyguard withdrew his gaze, shaking his head solemnly: "No, I didn¡¯t."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan smiled lightly: "Even the bodyguard says I didn¡¯tugh. Mr. Fu, you see, I¡¯m not lying, right?"

    Fu Yihan cast a meaningful nce at the bodyguard, his gaze unfathomable.

    The bodyguard kept his eyes ahead, avoiding Fu Yihan¡¯s expression.

    Fu Yihan raised his gaze and looked at an empty te beside the table.

    "Standing there doing nothing?"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, quickly getting up and smiling faintly: "Just a moment."

    She took a new te, but this time, instead of serving herself, she turned slightly toward Fu Yihan.

    "What do you want? I¡¯ll pick it for you."

    Fu Yihan lifted his eyes, ncing at Su Qingnuan¡¯s smiling gaze, then impatiently turned his head away.

    "Whatever."

    Watching his face suddenly change, Su Qingnuan felt puzzled.

    Carefully studying his expression, she asked softly, "Mr. Fu, what¡¯s wrong?"

    Why are you upset again?

    Fu Yihan said nothing, turning his wheelchair back around.

    Su Qingnuan helplessly looked toward the bodyguard.

    The bodyguard nced at her briefly, then silently turned around as well.

    "..."

    Looking at the empty te in her hands, Su Qingnuan clenched her fists tightly.

    Did she say something wrong?

    But she hadn¡¯t said anything yet...

    Su Qingnuan let out a bitterugh.

    She really was an unlikable person, always making people angry for no reason.

    Lowering her gaze, Su Qingnuan picked out some crowd-favorite pastries and ced them onto the te.

    A momentter, Su Qingnuan walked over with the refreshments.

    "Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan wordlessly epted the pastries, staring off into the distance as he ate in silence.

    His expression showed neither joy nor displeasure, as if he were a machine consuming food¡ªemotionless.

    Su Qingnuan frowned, retreating quietly to the side.

    Though the two were the main characters of this gathering, the truth was that no one approached them for conversation.

    It was unclear whether Fu Yihan¡¯s reputation was too fearsome, or if Su Qingnuan¡¯s earlier actions had unnerved the crowd; only asionally would someonee over to talk.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t seem to mind much, but Fu Yihan¡¯s expression was intriguing.

    Fu Yixing had left the dining table and mingled among the crowd, his charm evident as he effortlessly engaged with everyone he encountered.

    Watching his warm demeanor contrasted against Fu Yihan...

    Always maintaining an air of icy detachment¡ªit was no wonder people avoided approaching him.

    "What are you looking at?" That cold gaze suddenly turned her way, catching Su Qingnuan in the act of peeking.

    Su Qingnuan awkwardly rubbed her nose and responded softly, "Nothing, I was just looking around."

    "Looking around?" Fu Yihan sneered. "Did a flower bloom on my face for you to stare at me like that?"

    "..."

    Sure enough, an unlikable personality.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head silently, unsure of what to do.

    Watching her seemingly aggrieved appearance, Fu Yihan frowned slightly but did not say anything further.

    The gathering continued untilte into the night.

 Chapter 28 - 218 Charity Event

    <h4>Chapter 28: Chapter 218 Charity Event</h4><h4></h4>

    When the gathering was finally over, Su Qingnuan wasted no time in pushing Fu Yihan back to his room.

    With the help of the bodyguards, she waited for Fu Yihan to freshen up briefly and lie down before she could finally return to her own room.

    After taking a shower, Su Qingnuan sprawledfortably on the bed and let out a breath of relief.

    Indeed, such asions were simply not for her.

    That night, Su Qingnuan had a dream.

    In the dream, Fu Yihan had suddenly transformed into a warm and gentle older brother, indulging her every whim while being strikingly handsome.

    However, the moment she opened her eyes, everything vanished.

    Su Qingnuan blinked in confusion, and after realizing that it was all just a dream, she couldn¡¯t help but click her tongue.

    If Fu Yihan were truly that kind of gentle man, there was no way she would¡¯ve been the one to marry him.

    Su Qingnuan sighed faintly before getting up to tidy her room.

    Once her room was neatly organized, she finally opened the door.

    On the sofa, Fu Yihan was sitting there taking a short nap. Upon hearing the sound of the door opening, he turned to look at her.

    Su Qingnuan paused, startled, as she stared at Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re up so early?"

    Fu Yihan said nothing, his gaze sweeping up and down her figure before his brows furrowed slightly.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan lowered her eyes and started reexamining her outfit.

    Since they were at home, she was simply dressed in a white t-shirt and jeans¡ªthe mostfortable attire. This didn¡¯t seem problematic, right?

    Cautiously raising her eyes, she met Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze directly.

    "Change."

    "....." Su Qingnuan tugged at her clothes awkwardly and said, "This outfit is more convenient."

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and remained silent.

    Feeling helpless, Su Qingnuan turned to look at the bodyguard standing nearby.

    The bodyguard stood straighter and informed her seriously, "There¡¯s a charity event today, and both the Eldest Young Master and the Eldest Young Mistress are required to attend."

    So that was why. Su Qingnuan immediately turned back to her room to change.

    When the door opened again, Su Qingnuan was dressed in a pale yellow long dress.

    Herplexion was already fair, and the dress only entuated her delicate appearance even further.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression finally looked less displeased.

    "Let¡¯s go."

    The bodyguard began pushing Fu Yihan toward the exit, with Su Qingnuan following closely behind.

    The two of them descended the stairs to find the living room full of people.

    Fu Yixing nced at Fu Yihan, his gaze lingering on Su Qingnuan momentarily before shifting away.

    Old Master Fu stood up and smiled, "Heading to the charity event, are we?"

    Fu Yihan cast him a cold nce and responded icily, "You¡¯ve already threatened me with your life¡ªhow could I not go?"

    "....."

    Embarrassment flickered across Old Master Fu¡¯s face, though he had clearly grown ustomed to it.

    His deep-set gazended on Su Qingnuan, and he smiled slightly, "Yurou, take good care of Yihan."

    Su Qingnuan nodded quickly. "Don¡¯t worry, Grandpa. I¡¯ll do my best."

    Old Master Fu nodded in satisfaction before turning his attention back to Fu Yihan.

    "Come with me for a moment."

    With that, Old Master Fu began walking toward the door.

    The bodyguard released the wheelchair, and Fu Yihan quietly wheeled himself after Old Master Fu.

    In an instant, the room was left with Su Qingnuan, Fu Yixing, and Yun Meifeng, making Su Qingnuan feel rather uneasy. She subtly inched closer to the bodyguard.

    Noticing this, Fu Yixing scoffed.

    His mocking gaze swept over her.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly.

    Yun Meifeng stood up with a faint smile, "Yurou, while they¡¯re chatting, why don¡¯t you grab some breakfast?"

    As she spoke, she made her way toward the kitchen.

    Su Qingnuan hurried to say, "Auntie, that¡¯s not necessary. Yihan hasn¡¯t eaten breakfast either; we¡¯ll eat together."

    She deliberately emphasized the word "together," hoping Yun Meifeng would catch the hint.

    Indeed, Yun Meifeng nced at her lightly before sitting back down.

    "Ha!" Fu Yixing sneered. "Mom, don¡¯t go out of your way. She¡¯s acting as if she¡¯stched onto someone powerful and unting it here. As if anyone would like what you make."

    ".....That¡¯s not it," Su Qingnuan murmured softly. "I just didn¡¯t want to trouble Auntie."

    Yun Meifeng gave her an understanding smile.

    "It¡¯s alright, Auntie gets it. Yihan has a difficult personality; I know it must be hard on you."

    Su Qingnuan looked at her in surprise and slowly shook her head.

    "Actually, Mr. Fu isn¡¯t all that difficult to get along with...."

    At least he¡¯d lend a helping hand when she was visibly struggling.

    Yun Meifeng¡¯s eyes shed briefly with confusion but quickly returned to their usualposure as she replied with a smile, "True, once the rtionship improves, he doesn¡¯t seem so hard to get along with."

    Su Qingnuan opened her mouth to say more, but the bodyguard stepped forward, positioning himself slightly to her side.

    "Eldest Young Mistress, the Eldest Young Master is urging you."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion. "Already?"

    The bodyguard said nothing but lowered his eyes to nce at the time.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan bid farewell to Yun Meifeng before jogging out the door.

    Watching her departure, Fu Yixing frowned deeply.

    "She¡¯s just an overly ambitious little girl. Why are you being so polite to her?"

    Yun Meifeng chuckled lightly, "You! You¡¯re simply too impatient. For things like this, we must maintain appearances on the surface."

    "..."

    Fu Yixing snorted coldly and turned his head away.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan jogged out the door and found Fu Yihan sitting outside with his back to them.

    Old Master Fu was already nowhere to be seen.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan walked over and stopped behind Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan nced at her with a cold expression, his eyes clearly burning with anger.

    Had the conversation failed?

    Su Qingnuan hesitated slightly, afraid to say anything further.

    The bodyguard arrived in time and spoke quietly, "Eldest Young Master, it¡¯s almost time."

    Fu Yihan silently withdrew his gaze and responded softly, "Alright, let¡¯s go."

    The bodyguard pushed Fu Yihan once more, and Su Qingnuan quickly followed.

    This time, as before, the charity event required the two of them to ride together due to the presence of reporters.

    However, the atmosphere inside the car was exceedingly strange.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but quietly observe Fu Yihan. He was gazing indifferently out the window, his expression enigmatic, saying not a word. Yet, the cold aura emanating from him created a suffocating tension, leaving everyone else in the car reluctant to speak.

    Finally, they arrived at the venue, and Su Qingnuan eagerly stepped out of the car to take a breath of fresh air.

    "Follow me and don¡¯t wander off."

    Su Qingnuan turned back, and Fu Yihan was already propping himself on a cane, slowly lowering himself into a wheelchair.

    "Alright." Su Qingnuan replied softly.

    The charity event was held at a hotel, with plenty of reporters inside.

    Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan forward, blinking against the barrage of shing cameras that made her vision ufortable.

    Her foot slipped slightly, causing the wheelchair to jolt forward.

    Fu Yihan turned back with an impatient look.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan quickly said, "Sorry, the shing lights were a little bothersome."

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly, "You¡¯ll have to adjust. Events like this will happen often. Practice using your phone¡¯s shlight when you get home."

    "...Understood."

    The two officially entered the hotel¡¯s main hall.

    Su Qingnuan noticed that the venue was packed with people, most of them prominent figures from the business world.

    For such charity events, it seemed less about actual charity and more about offering members of the elite circle a chance to engage with one another privately.

 Chapter 29 Ability

    <h4>Chapter 29: Chapter 29 Ability</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan, as the only one to make an entrance in a wheelchair, naturally drew quite a bit of attention.

    The iconic wheelchair and that strikingly handsome but steely face¡ªwho didn¡¯t know that this was the Eldest Young Master of the Fu family?

    "Young Master Fu!"

    A man in a meticulously tailored leather suit approached, exuding elite refinement.

    The furrow in Fu Yihan¡¯s brow eased slightly. Though his expression remained cold, it was evident he wasn¡¯t entirely unhappy.

    "I thought you wouldn¡¯t show up," the man said with a smile.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze drifted elsewhere as he replied indifferently, "The old man was on the verge of tears. How could I note?"

    The man chuckled lightly. "As expected, only the old man can hold sway over you in your family."

    Fu Yihan curled his lips faintly and didn¡¯t deny it.

    The man looked up and noticed Su Qingnuan, who had been standing silently by the side, and asked curiously, "Is this sister-inw?"

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned and nced at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "Call her Miss Su."

    "...But you¡¯re already married. Why shouldn¡¯t I call her sister-inw?" The man sighed helplessly. "That makes it so awkward for her!"

    Su Qingnuan quickly said, "It¡¯s alright...."

    After all, they weren¡¯t a real couple in practice. It was better to draw clear lines now.

    That was what she said, but the flicker of disappointment in her eyes didn¡¯t escape the man¡¯s notice.

    Standing up straight, the man smiled faintly. "Sister-inw, my name is Gong Qi. You can call me Fourth Brother."

    Su Qingnuan blinked in surprise, feeling a bit at a loss.

    His sunny smile was as warm and radiant as a winter morning, instantly dispelling the chill in the air.

    Seeing her silence, Gong Qi waved his hand tentatively. "Sister-inw?"

    Snapping out of it, Su Qingnuan quickly apologized, "Sorry, I got distracted!"

    "No problem," Gong Qi chuckled lightly and withdrew his hand. "A lot of people zone out looking at Fu Yihan, but you¡¯re the first to do so while looking at me. It¡¯s oddly boosted my confidence in my looks."

    Su Qingnuan was speechless.

    Gong Qi indeed had a good-looking, sunny-boy charm, but standing next to Fu Yihan, it seemed somewhatckluster.

    Suddenly, Su Qingnuan felt a shiver run down her spine.

    That familiar sensation...

    She cautiously nced at Fu Yihan.

    As expected, he was looking at her coolly.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head, too scared to speak.

    Noticing Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, Gong Qi said helplessly, "Young Master Fu, intimidating thedy like this, you really have no sense of tenderness."

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, shot Gong Qi a faint nce, and smirked mockingly.

    "How does a virgin like you have the nerve to lecture me about tenderness?"

    "....."

    Gong Qi¡¯s expression shifted slightly, and he looked awkwardly around before whispering, "Didn¡¯t we agree not to bring that up? Why are you sabotaging me now?"

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows nonchntly, staring at him withposure.

    "Alright, alright!" Gong Qi sighed in resignation. "I owe you this one."

    With that, Gong Qi began pushing Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair toward the main hall.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurried to follow.

    They stopped in front of a door.

    "Avoiding this is impossible. For now, this is a spot I found for you. You can rest here for a bit, but when the charity event officially begins, you¡¯ll have toe out."

    Without saying a word, Fu Yihan pushed open the door and wheeled himself in.

    Gong Qi followed him in, looking quite pleased with himself. "How¡¯s that? Wasn¡¯t I considerate?"

    It was a small lounge,pact yet fully equipped.

    Fu Yihan gave a soft "mm," stopped by the sofa, and turned his gaze to Gong Qi.

    "Alright, you can go now."

    Gong Qi blinked incredulously. "Seriously? Your ability to burn bridges after crossing them just keeps improving."

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows.

    "Okay, okay, I¡¯ll go."

    Gong Qi left the room, leaving the three of them inside.

    Ever sinceing in, Fu Yihan had kept his eyes shut and remained silent.

    His silence subdued everyone else in the room¡ªthey didn¡¯t dare speak either.

    After a long while, Su Qingnuan suddenly stood up and cautiously stepped outside.

    The bodyguard nced at her, then at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t react until the door wasn¡¯t fully closed; only then did he open his eyes.

    "Eldest Young Master, the Young Madam has gone out."

    "Mm," Fu Yihan murmured, fiddling with the ring in his hand, his expression inscrutable.

    It was their wedding ring. Earlier, his grandfather had specifically reminded him to wear it before heading out.

    After a while, Fu Yihan pocketed the ring, then slipped it onto his finger.

    "Go and see."

    "Yes, sir."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan went to the restroom, but when she returned, she found the lounge door locked from the inside.

    "How could it be locked?" Su Qingnuan asked the bodyguard in confusion.

    The bodyguard frowned and shook his head. "I¡¯ll go find Young Master Gong. Madam, please wait here."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan stood at the doorway, keeping watch.

    Thankfully, most of the event attendees were gathered in the main hall, and few wandered over to this area.

    After waiting some time, the bodyguard finally returned with someone in tow.

    Holding a key in hand, Gong Qi asked curiously, "How could it be locked from inside? Was Fu Yihan the only one in there?"

    Su Qingnuan looked to the bodyguard.

    The bodyguard nodded slightly. "When I left, Eldest Young Master was alone in the room."

    "...."

    Quickly unlocking the door, they were met with a strange smell wafting out.

    Su Qingnuan immediately covered her mouth.

    Gong Qi frowned. "What is that smell?"

    The bodyguard rushed in and pushed the door wide open.

    The lounge held only Fu Yihan, leaning against the sofa, eyes shut. He appeared to be asleep.

    The bodyguard hurried over, gripping Fu Yihan¡¯s shoulders and supporting him upright.

    "Eldest Young Master?" The bodyguard tapped Fu Yihan¡¯s cheek, raising his voice. "Eldest Young Master?"

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t wake.

    Panicking, Su Qingnuan asked, "What should we do? Should we call a doctor?"

    "No," Gong Qi said calmly. "Calling a doctor will expose us. Ah Qi,e with me. Sister-inw, please take care of Young Master Fu. We¡¯ll return shortly."

    The bodyguard hesitated, clutching Fu Yihan¡¯s arm, before looking to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan paused but then met his gaze with resolve. "Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll keep a close eye on him."

    The bodyguard gritted his teeth but eventually let go.

    "Lock the door and wait for us toe back."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, watching as they left the room and locked the door behind them.

    To prevent others outside from using a key, Su Qingnuan dragged a nearby cab and wedged it against the door.

    Once everything was secured, she turned around and walked over to Fu Yihan¡¯s side to sit down.

    Fu Yihan¡¯splexion was pale, and his brow furrowed as though in difort.

    Watching his strained expression, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but recall the scene she had witnessed before.

    The words whispered at yesterday¡¯s gathering echoed once more in her mind.

    Fu Yihan was originally healthy and mobile. It was only because of a car ident that he ended up like this.

    Totaling today¡¯s incident, it seemed there were many hidden eyes watching Fu Yihan in the shadows.

    With these thoughts, Su Qingnuan felt a pang of sympathy.

    Though her familycked the wealth and power of the Fu family, at least they didn¡¯t have enemies lurking unseen in the dark.

 Chapter 30: Drugging

    <h4>Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Drugging</h4><h4></h4>

    Not long after A-Qi and the others left, Fu Yihan¡¯s body suddenly began to convulse violently.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly pressed him down.

    "Fu Yihan?" Su Qingnuan said softly.

    The unconscious man showed no response.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, doing her best to hold him in ce.

    Suddenly, Fu Yihan opened his eyes, the blood-red gaze filled with both endurance and unbearable pain.

    Su Qingnuan was startled. "Fu Yihan? Are you okay?"

    Her voice sessfully caught Fu Yihan¡¯s attention.

    His movements were slow as he turned his head, quietly staring at her.

    Su Qingnuan was taken aback by the red veins in his eyes, her hand pressing on him momentarily paused.

    In the next moment, however, Su Qingnuan applied even more force.

    "Hang in there a little longer; they¡¯ve already gone to find a doctor. They¡¯ll be back soon."

    Fu Yihan remained motionless, his entire being resembling a soulless puppet, only capable of gently turning his head.

    Seeing him this way, Su Qingnuan let out a breath of relief.

    After all, if this man were to truly lose control, Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t sure if she could handle him.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The sudden sound of knocking startled Su Qingnuan to her feet.

    Why would someone be knocking? Were they back? Or...

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, keeping her eyes fixed on the door.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The persistent knocking came again, and Su Qingnuan pursed her lips, tiptoeing to the door.

    "Is someone really inside?"

    A faint voice seeped through the door crack¡ªit was a man¡¯s voice.

    "Of course someone¡¯s in there! I saw it myself when I passed by earlier, how could there not be anyone!"

    Su Qingnuan froze. So, there wasn¡¯t just one person outside.

    "Don¡¯t worry, I wouldn¡¯t deceive you," a woman said with augh. "You¡¯ll definitely get your exclusive scoop!"

    Exclusive scoop? Journalists!

    Su Qingnuan nced back at Fu Yihan¡¯s muddled state, her frown deepening.

    If his condition were to be exposed, it truly would make for an exclusive.

    Su Qingnuan recalled the old master¡¯s warnings before leaving home: If Fu Yihan became a headline, the Fu family would find it hard to stay afloat.

    With this in mind, Su Qingnuan cautiously moved the sofa, positioning it behind the door.

    With the help of both the sofa and another barricade, even if the people outside had a key, they wouldn¡¯t be able to get in.

    Just as this thought shed through Su Qingnuan¡¯s mind, she heard the sound of the door lock turning.

    Su Qingnuan frowned and sat on the sofa.

    The door shook a couple of times but didn¡¯t budge.

    "That¡¯s odd. Why won¡¯t it open?"

    "Is it broken?"

    "Should we call a locksmith?"

    "Alright, you stay here and watch. I¡¯ll go find one."

    Hurried footsteps sounded, and Su Qingnuan got up and went to the window.

    The window in the room was small, but it was enough to see outside.

    Directly below, people were moving in and out; it was impossible to distinguish who was who.

    When would A-Qi and the others return?

    If these people brought a locksmith and couldn¡¯t open the door, they would surely grow suspicious. At that point, neither wardrobes nor sofas would be enough to stop them.

    Su Qingnuan nced back at Fu Yihan, who was breathing heavily, gasping for air.

    What on earth was going on?

    As every second ticked by, Su Qingnuan grew increasingly anxious, pacing the room.

    The door lock began to turn again, startling Su Qingnuan. She tiptoed over.

    "Could there be something wrong with this lock?"

    Someone asked.

    Then came the continuous sounds of the door lock being turned.

    Watching as the door was pushed open slightly, Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan and gritted her teeth.

    ...

    "What the hell is going on?" Wu Feng asked, frowning deeply. ring at the locked door, he snapped angrily, "Don¡¯t screw this up for me! I¡¯ve worked so hard to get this chance!"

    The locksmith wiped the sweat off his forehead and said helplessly, "Young Master Wu, it doesn¡¯t seem like the lock is broken. There¡¯s likely something blocking it from the inside."

    "Blocking it?"

    Wu Feng raised his hand and pulled the man aside. "If it¡¯s blocked, then just push it open!"

    Pointing to the bodyguards nearby, he ordered, "You, go find some guys and have them force the door open for me!"

    "Yes, sir!"

    As the bodyguards jogged off, the locksmith stepped back, sighing in relief.

    Wu Feng stood impatiently at the doorway, his eyes zing with anger.

    Suddenly, the door lock turned from the inside.

    Wu Feng paused, confused.

    The door slowly creaked open, and out stepped a woman in a long dress.

    She looked at the people gathered at the entrance, her brows furrowed. "What are you all doing?"

    Wu Feng stared nkly at her, asking suspiciously, "It¡¯s just you in there?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at him and nodded. "Of course. Who else could it be?"

    Not believing her, Wu Feng pushed past her and flung the door open.

    The room, its interior visible at a nce, held no sign of the familiar figure he was looking for.

    "How could this be..." Wu Feng muttered in disbelief. "I clearly remember him being here!"

    Su Qingnuan took a step back. "I was just resting here for a bit, and you all came barging in, making such a racket. Honestly, it¡¯s annoying!"

    Wu Feng turned to her, his eyes reddened, ring at her fiercely.

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned, then crossed her arms with a cold smirk. "What? You want to hit me? In front of all these witnesses? Let¡¯s see which family¡¯s young master dares toy a hand on me."

    Wu Feng scrutinized the woman in front of him. Her attire was luxurious, her every gesture exuding the air of money.

    This charity event had drawn attendees who were no pushovers.

    Wu Feng took a deep breath and forced a polite smile. "Apologies, miss. I didn¡¯t mean to disturb you."

    With that, Wu Feng exited the room.

    "Move out! Even if he¡¯s woken up, he can¡¯t have gone far. Keep chasing!"

    Watching Wu Feng storm off with his men, Su Qingnuan curiously nced at the remaining individual.

    "Who are they chasing?"

    That person gave an awkward smile, picked up their toolbox, and left.

    The hallway fell briefly silent.

    Su Qingnuan suddenly lost her strength, leaning against the door and taking deep breaths.

    She turned back into the room, locked the door again, and walked behind the sofa to drag the man lying on the floor upright.

    With considerable effort, Su Qingnuan managed to prop him up, leaning against the sofa in a seated position.

    Fu Yihan squinted at the woman in front of him.

    "They¡¯ve left?"

    Su Qingnuan made a sound of acknowledgment, supporting his shoulder as she murmured, "Mm-hmm, just as you said, they¡¯ve been misled."

    When would A-Qi and the others return?

    Seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s current state, taking him out now would be equivalent to delivering a headline on a silver tter.

    But when she had spoken with the man earlier, murmurs of an approaching conclusion had already been in the air.

    With more people and prying eyes outside, escape would only be harder.

    As Su Qingnuan fretted and paced, the door was suddenly knocked on again.

    Her head jerked up, and she stared warily at the door.

    "It¡¯s me, A-Qi."

    The steady voice instantly put Su Qingnuan at ease. She smiled at Fu Yihan. "They¡¯re here! I¡¯ll go open the door."

    Through his haze, Fu Yihan saw her smile, radiant like sunlight, before cking outpletely.

    Su Qingnuan opened the door and, upon seeing the two familiar faces outside, urgently said, "He¡¯s already awake. Quickly, go check on him!"

 Chapter 31 Private Villa

    <h4>Chapter 31: Chapter 31 Private Vi</h4><h4></h4>

    A-Qi rushed into the room but didn¡¯t see Fu Yihan. He looked at Su Qingnuan in confusion.

    Su Qingnuan pointed behind the sofa and said, "Behind it."

    A-Qi then turned to the back.

    Fu Yihan had already closed his eyes. The rity he disyed earlier was as fleeting as a blooming flower.

    The doctor followed the two into the room, lifted Fu Yihan¡¯s eyelids, and conducted a brief check.

    "We¡¯re currently unsure what he consumed. We need to go to the hospital for more thorough tests."

    Gong Qi shook his head. "No, we can¡¯t let him go out in this state."

    Hearing this, the doctor adjusted his sses. "Then we have no choice but to stimte him to keep him temporarily rational."

    Gong Qi frowned. "The same drug asst time?"

    "There¡¯s an alternative: just carry him out of here."

    The doctor¡¯s attitude was extremely arrogant, as if he feared neither A-Qi nor Gong Qi.

    Su Qingnuan nced at him in surprise.

    Noticing Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze, the doctor looked at herzily, as though lost in thought.

    Their eyes met briefly before Su Qingnuan quickly looked away, focusing on Fu Yihan.

    "Use it!" A-Qi said firmly. "If Mr. Fu were conscious right now, he¡¯d definitely choose to use it."

    The doctor smirked, took a vial of reagent from the box, and slowly injected it into Fu Yihan¡¯s body.

    The reagent worked quickly. Fu Yihan opened his eyes, his gaze remarkably clear.

    "Mr. Fu, there¡¯s not much time," A-Qi exined rapidly.

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brows and raised his hand.

    "Help me up. Get me to the wheelchair."

    A-Qi and Gong Qi worked together to lift him up.

    Su Qingnuan pushed the wheelchair over, cing it behind Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan cast her a nce and said, "Yuerou, you¡¯ll push me out. Gong Qi, you two followter."

    "Got it."

    Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and began pushing Fu Yihan outside.

    As they exited the room, the mor of the crowd outside reached their ears.

    They slowly merged into the throng of people at the charity event.

    "Don¡¯t be nervous," Fu Yihan¡¯s voice came suddenly, calm and deliberate. "Do as I instructed you earlier. We are here for the event, nothing more. Afterward, we are simply heading home."

    Su Qingnuan murmured a quiet "Mm" and rxed her stride.

    As they passed, many greeted Fu Yihan.

    He responded with ease, appearing no different from his usual self.

    At the entrance, A-Qi handed Fu Yihan a cane.

    Fu Yihan steadied himself and slowly climbed into the car.

    As the car door shut, Fu Yihan immediately went limp, slumping as though his soul had left his body.

    Su Qingnuan panicked and turned to A-Qi. "A-Qi! Mr. Fu has fainted again!"

    A-Qi¡¯s brows furrowed as he turned to the driver and gave an address.

    The car sped through the roads, the fastest vehicle Su Qingnuan had ever been in. Several times, she was nearly thrown against the window.

    When they finally came to a stop, A-Qi swiftly opened the back door and carried Fu Yihan out on his back.

    Su Qingnuan had no time to react and could only hurry to follow.

    The car had stopped in front of a small vi. A-Qi, carrying Fu Yihan, opened the door with practiced ease and headed straight inside.

    Su Qingnuan hurried along in small steps.

    At the innermost part of the house, A-Qi opened a dark brown door and began descending.

    Is this... a basement?

    Su Qingnuan followed cautiously, her eyes filled with confusion.

    As they moved forward, the lights ahead lit up one by one. Soon, A-Qi stopped, and a blinding light suddenly came on.

    Su Qingnuan squinted, utterly shocked by the scene before her.

    It was a fully equipped room.

    "Fully equipped" in the medical sense.

    From hospital-grade instruments to specialized equipment, everything one could imagine was on disy here.

    Giant ss panes partitioned this basketball-court-sized space, offering an unobstructed view.

    "Why are you standing at the door?"

    A voice suddenly came from behind. Su Qingnuan turned to see Gong Qi and the doctor approaching.

    "Go sit inside." Gong Qi gestured.

    Snapping out of it, Su Qingnuan nodded and followed the two of them in.

    By now, A-Qi had already ced Fu Yihan on the examination table.

    As Fu Yihany motionless, the three of them stood around him, giving the impression of willing executioners.

    "I¡¯ll perform a checkup now. Lend me a hand," the doctor directed.

    A-Qi and Gong Qi nodded, standing close by Fu Yihan.

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan stood hesitantly and asked softly, "Is there anything I can help with?"

    The doctor shot her a nce but said nothing.

    A-Qi shook his head.

    Only Gong Qi was slightly gentler, smiling as he said, "No need. Have a seat and rest for now."

    Su Qingnuan had no choice but to sit back down.

    The trio moved deftly as they examined Fu Yihan.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes were dazzled by the array of instruments, which they used with practiced proficiency.

    Afterpleting the examination, the doctor held up a scan with a slight frown.

    "For now, it seems like his bodily functions are fine, and the effects of the drug are wearing off. However, I still haven¡¯t figured out what this drug is supposed to do. He seems to merely faint without any other notable reactions."

    Gong Qi nced at the unconscious man and spected, "Could it be that he¡¯s taken so much of these drugs that he¡¯s built up a resistance? Ordinary ones no longer affect him?"

    The doctor raised an eyebrow and smirked. "That¡¯s not an impossible exnation."

    In the end, the doctor couldn¡¯t determine what the drug actually was.

    "My guess is that it¡¯s a direct-injection hormone," the doctor said leisurely, sipping a cup of coffee.

    By now, they had left the basement and were sitting on the living room sofa.

    Gong Qi gave the doctor a sideways nce, grumbling, "Stop guessing. If Yihan wakes up and you can¡¯t give him a clear answer, you¡¯ll be in trouble."

    The doctor froze mid-sip and red at Gong Qi in annoyance.

    Unbothered by the re, Gong Qi ced a cup of coffee before Su Qingnuan. "Sister-inw, have some coffee."

    Su Qingnuan straightened up nervously and epted the cup. "Thank you."

    "Sister-inw?" The doctor¡¯s surprised gaze fell on Su Qingnuan. "She¡¯s Su Yuerou?"

    "Of course," Gong Qi replied with a grin. "Didn¡¯t you hear Yihan just now, calling her Yuerou? Why so surprised?"

    "It¡¯s just that..." The doctor scrutinized Su Qingnuan and murmured thoughtfully, "I recall Su Yuerou looking different when she was younger."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand trembled, spilling coffee onto the floor.

    A brown stain now marred the pristine carpet.

    "Hey!" Gong Qi quickly took out a napkin and handed it to her.

    Su Qingnuan epted the napkin, looking at him apologetically. "I¡¯m sorry for dirtying the carpet..."

    "It¡¯s fine." Gong Qi chuckled. "Are you burned? Do you need some ointment?"

    "No, no!" Su Qingnuan waved her hands quickly, smiling. "I¡¯m fine!"

    She extended her hand, revealing unmarred, delicate skin. Smiling, she assured, "It¡¯s just warm now. Nothing serious."

    Seeing this, Gong Qi let out a sigh of relief.

 Chapter 32 Holding a Grudge

    <h4>Chapter 32: Chapter 32 Holding a Grudge</h4><h4></h4>

    He sat down and said helplessly, "Sister-inw, don¡¯t be too reserved. This is Yihan¡¯s private vi. Technically, it¡¯s your territory as well. Chuan and I are the ones intruding here."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s private vi?

    Hasn¡¯t he always relied on his family? How does he have his own vi?

    "Ha!" The doctor sneered coldly, "Gong Qi, why are you so enthusiastic towards everyone? The marriage between those two might not evenst. And here you are addressing her as sister-inw already. Aren¡¯t you afraid Fu Yihan will overhear and get angry?"

    Gong Qi frowned, ring at him, and said seriously, "I¡¯ve called her sister-inw in front of Yihan, and he didn¡¯t deny it."

    The doctor froze for a moment, put down the coffee in his hand, and looked at Qin Chuan in surprise. "He really didn¡¯t deny it?"

    Or maybe he did deny it?

    Qin Chuan smiled awkwardly, unsure of what she should say at this moment.

    "Alright, enough." Gong Qi gave the doctor a shove and looked at Qin Chuan helplessly, "This is Qin Chuan. He grew up with Yihan since they were kids. He¡¯s a bit of a sharp-tongued person, but he¡¯s actually a good guy at heart."

    "I¡¯m really not that good." Qin Chuan leaned back with his arms crossed. "Next time you call me over for something like this, I¡¯ll get angry."

    "As if." Gong Qi chuckled lightly, "When Yihan wakes upter, won¡¯t you quietly sit still there anyway?"

    Qin Chuan shot him a re and closed his eyes, pretending to rest.

    Gong Qi chuckled helplessly, taking the cup Qin Chuan had set down earlier, and said with a light smile, "Let me refill your coffee."

    Seeing his practiced movements, Qin Chuan swallowed the words she was about to say.

    After finishing her cup of coffee, Qin Chuan finally managed to calm herself down from the events of the day.

    "Young Master Qin Chuan, Mr. Fu has woken up."

    Suddenly, A Qi¡¯s voice rang out from upstairs.

    Qin Chuanzily opened his eyes and headed upstairs.

    Seeing this, Qin Chuan followed and stood.

    "Sister-inw." Gong Qi called out to Qin Chuan, smiling lightly, "Yihan doesn¡¯t like anyone being present while he¡¯s talking to others. That includes me."

    Qin Chuan paused for a moment and then sat back down.

    She stared at the empty cup on the table, her gaze wandering.

    Seeing her at a loss, Gong Qi smiled and stood up. "Want to go out for a walk?"

    "Huh?" Qin Chuan quickly stood up, nervous, "Sure... sure!"

    Gong Qi gestured for her to go first.

    Qin Chuan quickly walked ahead.

    This vi was situated at the edge of the entire neighborhood. The neighbors on either side were far apart, leaving ample space between them.

    Walking along the road by the street, the two of them admired the surrounding scenery.

    It must be said, the environment here was truly remarkable.

    Shadows of green willow trees, small bridges over flowing water.

    "I heard you have an older sister, Sister-inw?"

    Qin Chuan¡¯s heart tightened, and she nced at Gong Qi.

    "Don¡¯t misunderstand. I¡¯m not prying into your family matters." Gong Qi smiled kindly. "It¡¯s just that Qin Chuan had some connections with the Su family in the past, so he knows a bit about them."

    Qin Chuan was mildly surprised and gave him a sidelong look, smiling slightly. "Yes, but my sister is shy by nature and doesn¡¯t usually like meeting people."

    "Really?" Gong Qi smiled and turned his head to look forward.

    "Honestly, Yihan doesn¡¯t have much of a good temper either. We used to fight a lot when we were kids. But I could never win against him. Ever since his car ident, there hasn¡¯t been another chance for us to fight."

    "..."

    Although Qin Chuan couldn¡¯t quite understand such feelings, she could sense that these two cared deeply for Fu Yihan, just as much as the old man did.

    Gong Qi nced at her face, observing her expressions, but realized she was quietly lowering her head without saying a word.

    "Do you think he¡¯s hard to get along with?" Gong Qi asked.

    "Ah?" Qin Chuan turned to him, surprised. "Not really. He¡¯s not as difficult as I imagined."

    Gong Qi showed a satisfied smile. "So our sister-inw isn¡¯t like those ordinary people."

    Qin Chuan chuckled lightly. "It¡¯s just that I¡¯ve also experienced being judged and misunderstood by others, so I can empathize with him."

    "You¡¯ve been through the same?" Gong Qi looked mildly surprised. "Sister-inw, were you hurt before?"

    Qin Chuan realized her slip and quickly shook her head. "No, no, it was my sister. She was injured when she was young. Whenever I took her out, people would make insensitivements."

    Gong Qi nodded in understanding. "So your sister must be someone deserving of pity."

    As he spoke, his lips carried a smile¡ªnot one of mockery, nor anything else¡ªjust pure kindness.

    No one had ever spoken about her like this before, not with such an expression.

    Qin Chuan suddenly felt warm inside and lowered her head, saying softly, "She doesn¡¯t want pity. Rather than receiving sympathetic nces, she prefers to be treated like a normal person."

    Gong Qi was momentarily stunned, his gaze at Qin Chuan bing deeper.

    Feeling his steady gaze, Qin Chuan asked suspiciously, "What is it? Is there something dirty on my face?"

    "No." Gong Qi withdrew his gaze, smiling lightly. "He¡¯s been wallowing for so long. If only he had met you earlier."

    "Huh?" Qin Chuan scratched her head awkwardly. "I don¡¯t think I¡¯d make any difference, whether meeting earlier orter."

    "... Sister-inw, that¡¯s not what I meant." Gong Qi smiled helplessly.

    Qin Chuan blinked in confusion, her longshes fluttering like butterfly wings.

    "Then what did you mean?" she asked.

    Gong Qiughed and covered his forehead, chuckling twice. Then he sighed. "It¡¯s my mistake. We shouldn¡¯t be talking about this now. It¡¯s too early."

    "Hmm?"

    Qin Chuan¡¯s confusion deepened.

    "Never mind. Let¡¯s head back."

    "..."

    The two of them strolled leisurely back to the house.

    On the sofa, the person sitting there had already changed. Seeing the awakened Fu Yihan, Qin Chuan trotted over and asked quietly, "Are you alright?"

    Fu Yihan nced at her but said nothing.

    Qin Chuan awkwardly straightened her posture.

    "Yihan." Gong Qi looked at him disapprovingly. "Today, it was thanks to Sister-inw that you weren¡¯t caught and photographed with those bizarre pictures."

    "Humph!" Fu Yihan snorted coldly.

    "With how careless you guys are, you fall into traps even at a banquet." Qin Chuan mocked snidely from the side.

    Fu Yihan shot him a frosty re.

    Qin Chuan paused, coughed awkwardly, and didn¡¯t say more.

    Seeing this, Gong Qiughed gleefully. "Look at that. Where¡¯s all your confidence now?"

    Qin Chuan red at him but said nothing.

    Gong Qi walked over and continued teasing him, unfazed.

    Qin Chuan, amused, couldn¡¯t help but nce over a few times.

    "What are you looking at?"

    Qin Chuan froze for a moment and quickly looked away, saying softly, "Nothing..."

    "Don¡¯t tell Grandpa about what happened today."

    The cold tone sounded more like amand.

    "Okay..."

    Fu Yihan turned to A Qi. "Help me up."

    A Qi helped Fu Yihan into a wheelchair before stepping aside, directing his gaze toward Qin Chuan.

 Chapter 33: The Importance of the Body

    <h4>Chapter 33: Chapter 33: The Importance of the Body</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan quickly realized what was happening and walked over to push Fu Yihan.

    "Let¡¯s go back first." Fu Yihan said to the two people sitting on the sofa with an expressionless face, "Qin Chuan, continue investigating that medication."

    Qin Chuan waved his hand impatiently, "Got it! Just leave already!"

    Fu Yihan nced at him and then looked away, speaking in a low voice, "Let¡¯s go."

    After leaving the small vi, the two got into the car.

    During the ride, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say a single word to her.

    The spacious back seat, the portion Su Qingnuan upied, was no more than a quarter of the space, making her appear pitiful.

    Fu Yihan stared at the window. On the ck ss, her hunched figure was reflected.

    For some reason, this person always behaved like this¡ªtimid and hesitant no matter where she was.

    Initially, she emted Su Yuerou¡¯s demeanor, showing some semnce of authority, but now her true form was revealed.

    "Su Qingnuan." Fu Yihan suddenly said.

    Su Qingnuan brought her gaze back and looked at Fu Yihan in confusion.

    "Mr. Fu, what is it?"

    Fu Yihan quietly looked at her, his gaze not as cold as before, yet devoid of any other emotions.

    Su Qingnuan tilted her head, her eyes brimming with uncertainty.

    "Mr. Fu?" she asked again.

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brow, looked away, and turned his gaze to the window.

    "Don¡¯t tell anyone about what happened today."

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly smiled, "Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll keep my mouth shut."

    "Mm."

    Silence fell, and the car was filled with an oppressive quiet.

    Su Qingnuan turned to look out the window again. She had noticed earlier that the road leading to Fu Yihan¡¯s private vi wasn¡¯t far from the route to her family¡¯s home.

    The home she hadn¡¯t returned to in ages...

    "What are you looking at?"

    His cool voice sounded again.

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of her thoughts and turned around, puzzled.

    "Mr. Fu, did you call out to me again?"

    "..."

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brow, following her gaze out the window.

    On this all-too-familiar road, with just one look, Fu Yihan instantly understood.

    "Want to go back?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head slightly, smiling bitterly, "I can¡¯t go back."

    She was now the abandoned daughter of the Su family. Returning home would be nothing short of inviting trouble.

    It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want to go back; she simply couldn¡¯t.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes darkened as he looked at her deeply.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze and whispered, "But this life isn¡¯t so bad either."

    His eyes shifted slightly, and Fu Yihan turned his gaze elsewhere.

    "Follow the terms of the contract. I¡¯ll keep my promises," he said coldly.

    The distant tone, at this moment, felt particrly reassuring to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan nodded seriously and smiled faintly, "Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Fu. I¡¯ll carry out the tasks you¡¯ve given me."

    "Mm."

    Soon, their car stopped.

    Ah Qi helped Fu Yihan out of the car, and Su Qingnuan, looking at the familiar building outside, took a deep breath and followed suit.

    The Old Master, upon seeing Fu Yihan, was visibly thrilled, his face lighting up with joy as he walked over.

    "How did it go?"

    Fu Yihan nced at him, his expression indifferent, "Nothing yet."

    "..."

    The Old Master stared at him in puzzlement, "That¡¯s impossible! I specifically made arrangements on their side!"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a mocking smile as he turned to look at the Old Master.

    The Old Master quickly said, "Yihan, Grandpa has your best interests in mind¡ªdon¡¯t overthink it."

    "Overthink?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly, "Perhaps I¡¯ve been underthinking it."

    The Old Master awkwardly pursed his lips but swiftly regained hisposure.

    "Tomorrow! There¡¯s a gathering tomorrow¡ªall people from the circle. Once everyone knows you, Grandpa¡¯s goals will be achieved."

    Fu Yihan stared at him with a nk expression, enunciating every word, "No way."

    "..... Yihan!" The Old Master¡¯s smile faded as his face turned stern, "Grandpa isying the groundwork for you right now¡ªwhat¡¯s wrong with you?"

    "It¡¯s unnecessary." Fu Yihan turned away, his back facing the Old Master, "I¡¯ll handle my own affairs. You don¡¯t need to worry."

    With that, he headed toward the elevator.

    "You ungrateful brat!" The Old Master stomped on the spot, seething with anger.

    Su Qingnuan cautiously followed Fu Yihan.

    "Qingnuan!"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan turned her head, her face blooming with a smile.

    "Grandpa."

    "Come here and chat with Grandpa." The Old Master gestured for her to approach.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, hiding her bitter smile, and followed the Old Master into the living room.

    "Sit." The Old Master pointed to the sofa across from him, his expression serious.

    Su Qingnuan sat down, her posture impably proper.

    "Do you know why I called you here?" The Old Master poured himself a cup of tea, his probing gaze fixed on her.

    Su Qingnuan felt a twinge of rm in her heart. Bowing her head, she replied cautiously, "If Grandpa is asking about today¡¯s events, I¡¯ve done my best as a granddaughter-inw, but the circumstances were somewhat unusual."

    "Unusual circumstances? How unusual?" The Old Master furrowed his brows, looking at her meaningfully, "Qingnuan, you should understand one thing: right now, you are his wife. Your fortunes rise and fall with his. Only if he does well will you do well."

    His gaze was as sharp as an eagle¡¯s, fixed intently on her.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s fingers intertwined nervously, twisting uneasily. She bit her lip and remained silent.

    "What¡¯s the matter? Do you think I, this old man, am unreasonable?" The Old Master chuckled as he questioned her.

    "No... not at all." Su Qingnuan responded softly, her tone uncertain, "Grandpa, in fact, all these worldly possessions mean little to me. As long as Yihan is healthy, that¡¯s enough for me."

    The Old Master froze, the wisps of steam from his tea curling upward.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t get a response and couldn¡¯t help but look up in confusion.

    "Grandpa, did I say something wrong?" Su Qingnuan asked cautiously.

    "No..." The Old Master sighed deeply, his hand resting on his forehead, "You¡¯re right. I¡¯ve been too impatient. His health is what truly matters."

    The Old Master lowered his head and ced his teacup back down, waving his hand with a smile, "Go upstairs for now. You¡¯ve both worked hard today¡ªget some rest early."

    Su Qingnuan smiled and wasted no time standing up, quickly heading upstairs.

    Watching her retreating figure, the Old Master¡¯s thoughtful gaze lingered, unmoved.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan returned to her room and found Ah Qi sitting on the sofa.

    "Ah Qi, how is Mr. Fu doing?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Ah Qi hurriedly stood up, speaking respectfully, "Madam, the Eldest Young Master has taken his medication and is already lying down."

    "Good." Su Qingnuan smiled, withdrawing her gaze. After a moment, she paused and looked at Ah Qi again, "Then why are you still here?"

    Ah Qi¡¯s expression, usually as cold as stone, cracked momentarily.

    "Qin Chuan said the medication might have side effects, so he asked me to stay and watch over the Eldest Young Master tonight."

    "Ah, I see!" Su Qingnuan nodded in sudden realization, then smiled faintly, "I think I have some bedding in my room. I¡¯ll get it for you¡ªwait here for a moment."

    "Ah! Madam, no need..."

    Before Ah Qi could finish his words of refusal, Su Qingnuan had already entered the room.

 Chapter 34: Onset of Symptoms

    <h4>Chapter 34: Chapter 34: Onset of Symptoms</h4><h4></h4>

    Before long, Su Qingnuan came out hugging a quilt.

    "I¡¯ll trouble you for tonight," Su Qingnuan said with a smile. "If you need any help, feel free to contact me at any time."

    Ah Qi nodded, the corners of his mouth slightly lifted.

    However, this person really didn¡¯t know how to smile; he looked quite frightening.

    Su Qingnuan instinctively took a step back, chuckling awkwardly, "Then I won¡¯t disturb you. You should rest first."

    With that said, she turned and went back to her room.

    Ah Qi patted his mouth in confusion.

    Am I really that scary?

    ...

    Su Qingnuan was startled awake in the middle of the night.

    After waking up, she groggily heard sounds outside and quietly got up to look.

    The lights outside were brightly lit, and someone was pacing anxiously back and forth.

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her eyes, and after seeing clearly who it was, she opened the door.

    "Ah Qi, what are you doing?"

    Ah Qi turned around, exhaled a sigh of relief upon seeing Su Qingnuan.

    "Eldest Young Mistress."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, her eyes fell on his hand holding a wet towel.

    "What¡¯s going on?" Su Qingnuan looked towards Fu Yihan¡¯s room in confusion, "Is he awake?"

    Ah Qi sighed and slowly shook his head without speaking.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan tentatively asked, "Should we call Dr. Qin Chuan over?"

    "No, we can¡¯t rm the old master and them."

    "..."

    So should we just hold it in like this?

    Su Qingnuan frowned, looking at Fu Yihan¡¯s closed door¡ªa forbidden door.

    "Ah Qi, what¡¯s wrong with Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked again.

    Ah Qi raised his eyes, seeing the seriousness and severity in Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes, he remained silent for a while.

    After a long pause, Ah Qi opened his mouth, "The Eldest Young Master¡¯s leg illness has red up. It¡¯s very painful now."

    "Pain?" Su Qingnuan asked in surprise, "Do we have medicine? Give him some medicine."

    "No." Ah Qi shook his head, cautiously said, "Previously, because of the medicine, the Eldest Young Master almost didn¡¯t wake up, he can¡¯t take painkillers now."

    "So, he should just endure the pain?" Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, whispering, "We have to find a solution."

    Ah Qi looked troubled yet helpless.

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth and walked towards the door.

    "Eldest Young Mistress!" Ah Qi hastily said, "The Eldest Young Master can¡¯t be provoked right now."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand paused on the door, fear flickered in her eyes, but then she asked, "Will he hit me?"

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t reply, but his heavy expression clearly told Su Qingnuan that there¡¯s a high chance he would.

    The person inside didn¡¯t seem very strong; if he hit her, it probably wouldn¡¯t hurt much, right?

    Thinking like this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t put her mind at ease and slowly pushed the door open.

    The room was very dark, only the sound of heavy breathing could be heard.

    The light slipping through the door crept onto the bed.

    With the help of this light, Su Qingnuan could clearly see the person outlined on the bed.

    Su Qingnuan swallowed, softly saying, "Mr. Fu, are you alright?"

    "Bang¡ª"

    The sudden flying pillow startled Su Qingnuan, leaving her standing still in ce.

    "Get out!"

    The hysterical voice couldn¡¯t hide the underlying pain.

    Ah Qi frowned and grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    "Eldest Young Mistress, please close the door."

    Su Qingnuan turned back to look at him, whispered, "Do you really intend to just watch him suffer?"

    "..."

    After a long pause, Ah Qi loosened his grip, looking at Su Qingnuan with sympathy.

    The look in his eyes seemed to say, good luck to you.

    Su Qingnuan swallowed and cautiously walked inside.

    Just this once, and she would never meddle again.

    Su Qingnuan warned herself in her heart, cautiously approaching the bedside.

    As she got closer, Su Qingnuan realized the entire bed was shaking, showing how much the person was trembling.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, and amid the tightly wrapped covers, she found Fu Yihan¡¯s head.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan called softly.

    The trembling of the bed paused for a moment, then the covers were pulled back.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s bloodshot eyes looked like those of a wolf in the night, full of threat.

    Su Qingnuan was taken aback, unconsciously stepping back.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes shed with disdain, coldly saying, "Get out."

    Cold as winter frost, impossible to melt.

    Su Qingnuan opened her mouth, only to find herself unable to utter a single word.

    Seeing her still standing there, the red in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes became even more pronounced.

    "Get out!"

    Su Qingnuan suddenly snapped back to reality!

    The person before her wasn¡¯t a beast¡ªit was Fu Yihan!

    Just an injured person, really not that scary! Su Qingnuan! You came to help! You need to show Mr. Fu your usefulness! Your courage!

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth and approached the bedside again.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan said softly, "Previously, due to health reasons, I studied acupuncture for a while. If you don¡¯t mind, I can help..."

    "Get out!"

    Her words weren¡¯t finished when Fu Yihan interrupted coldly.

    Su Qingnuan bit her lip, her eyes showing grievance.

    Suddenly, Fu Yihan copsed, revealing a painful expression, his voice turning hoarse.

    "Eldest Young Master!" Ah Qi rushed in to support him, "You can¡¯t endure it any longer! I¡¯ll call Young Master Qin Chuan!"

    His hand was pinned down by Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s icy gaze fell on Su Qingnuan, amid twisted pain, there was a hint of judgment.

    Su Qingnuan looked at him trembling, at a loss.

    "I¡¯ll give you one chance," Fu Yihan suddenly said.

    Su Qingnuan was slightly stunned.

    Ah Qi looked at Su Qingnuan, hastily saying, "Eldest Young Mistress, do you have the tools? For acupuncture!"

    "Ah... I do! I have them!"

    Running hurriedly back to her room, Su Qingnuan took out the silver needles buried at the bottom of her box and went to Fu Yihan¡¯s room.

    The lights in the room were already on, Fu Yihan was drenched, as if fished out of water.

    Su Qingnuan carefully sat down, looking at Ah Qi.

    "I need to expose his leg..."

    Ah Qi nced at Fu Yihan, who had his eyes closed, got up and said, "I¡¯ll step out first, Eldest Young Mistress. Do not let us down."

    With that, he left.

    After the door closed, Su Qingnuan carefully rolled up Fu Yihan¡¯s pant leg.

    The mottled marks were exposed to the air, Fu Yihan¡¯s body shuddered slightly.

    Su Qingnuan turned, looking at Fu Yihan biting his teeth.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan suddenly spoke, "Because of a heart issue, I have a scar on my chest. I knew from an early age that I was different. What others could do, I couldn¡¯t. My sister was always cheerful, and my parents liked her, but me..."

    "Shut up!" Fu Yihan¡¯s icy voice had a hint of irritability, "I¡¯m not here to listen to your stories."

    Su Qingnuan turned back, meeting Fu Yihan¡¯s sweaty gaze.

    Clearly in unbearable pain, yet maintaining an icy expression.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile, taking out the silver needle, dropping it slowly and steadily.

    "I¡¯m trying to distract you, this way, I can better..."

    With that, she exerted force with her hand, piercing the silver needle.

    "Mmm¡ª"

 Chapter 35: The Frail Eldest Young Master

    <h4>Chapter 35: Chapter 35: The Frail Eldest Young Master</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan was ruthless.

    In Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes, this had always been just a rumor.

    But after witnessing him lie there with over a dozen silver needles stuck in his leg and still not cry out, Su Qingnuan knew that this man wasn¡¯t just ruthless to others¡ªhe was ruthless to himself too.

    Su Qingnuan watched as Fu Yihan closed his eyes and nced worriedly at his leg.

    "There are already more than ten needles. Are you feeling any better now?"

    Fu Yihan pressed his lips together and said in a low voice, "A bit swollen."

    "Swollen?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes lit up. "That¡¯s good. That means the pain has gone away, hasn¡¯t it?"

    Fu Yihan was silent for a moment before reluctantly murmuring, "Mm."

    Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief and stood up. "Hang in there. I¡¯ll get you some water. I¡¯ll take the needles out soon."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond.

    Su Qingnuan quietly opened the door and walked out.

    The sound of the door closing reached his ears, and Fu Yihan shifted himself upright.

    Besides him, there was no one else in the room.

    His gaze fell on his scarred leg, and his expression subtly changed.

    Just now, in a moment of pain-induced irrationality, he had allowed her to give it a try.

    The most surprising thing was that his legs, which usually felt nothing other than pain, suddenly had a peculiar sensation.

    Fu Yihan frowned.

    That woman, clearly terrified to death¡ªhe had caught a glimpse out of the corner of his eye that her hand holding the silver needle was trembling. If it weren¡¯t for sheer desperation, Fu Yihan definitely would have kicked her out the moment he saw that.

    At least she hadn¡¯t caused a major mishap.

    Was he out of his mind just now? Letting that woman try it...

    Fu Yihan raised a hand to his forehead, unknowingly damp with sweat, and wiped it on his palm.

    "Hey?" Su Qingnuan opened the door and, seeing Fu Yihan sitting up, asked in confusion, "Why are you sitting up?"

    Fu Yihan nced at her, then let his body fall back down.

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    She ced the cup on the bedside table and asked, "Do you want some water?"

    Fu Yihan closed his eyes and didn¡¯t say a word.

    Seeing his silence, Su Qingnuan added, "Ah Qi said they¡¯ve brought over fresh sheets and bedding. Once the needles are out, we¡¯ll change everything for you."

    "Mm."

    "....."

    Stepping back, Su Qingnuan quietly waited.

    When Fu Yihan suddenly opened his eyes, Su Qingnuan hurried over.

    "Does it hurt again?" she asked.

    Fu Yihan gave her aplicated look and slowly nodded.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly. "Alright, I¡¯ll take the needles out now."

    Carefully removing the needles one by one, Su Qingnuan finally let out a breath of relief.

    Pulling down Fu Yihan¡¯s trouser leg, she smiled and walked toward the door. "I¡¯ll go call Ah Qi."

    "Wait!"

    Su Qingnuan stopped in her tracks, turning back with a puzzled look.

    Fu Yihan gestured toward the wardrobe. "There¡¯s sleepwear inside. Bring me a set."

    Following his instructions, Su Qingnuan opened the wardrobe and was startled by the array of neatly arranged clothes inside.

    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, she retrieved a set of sleepwear and brought it over as instructed.

    "Leave it by the bed and get out."

    Su Qingnuan nced at him. He was already propping himself up to sit.

    Is he nning to change into his sleepwear by himself?

    "What are you looking at?" Fu Yihan frowned slightly, his cold gaze falling on her.

    "N-nothing." Su Qingnuan quickly averted her eyes and left the room.

    As soon as Su Qingnuan stepped out, Ah Qi came over to meet her.

    "Young Madam, how is the Eldest Young Master?"

    "He¡¯s fine for now," Su Qingnuan said with a light smile. "But he asked me to get his sleepwear. I think he ns to change by himself?"

    Ah Qi froze for a moment but didn¡¯t say a word and took a step back.

    Seeing that Ah Qi wasn¡¯t nning to go in, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t push him either.

    The two sat on the sofa, waiting until a voice came from the room.

    Ah Qi immediately got up, carrying the bed linens into the room.

    Soon, Fu Yihan was carefully carried out and set on the sofa.

    Su Qingnuan furtively observed his expression and found that he seemed colder now than he had been during the day.

    Suddenly, Fu Yihan lifted his gaze.

    Their eyes met, and Su Qingnuan froze for a moment before quickly looking away.

    "Su Qingnuan," Fu Yihan called out.

    His tone was anything but friendly.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze. "Yes!"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled ever so slightly, as if smiling but entirely devoid of warmth.

    "Your courage seems to have growntely."

    "....." Su Qingnuan shook her head repeatedly. "I.. didn¡¯t..."

    "Didn¡¯t?" Fu Yihan sneered. "Entering my room without my permission¡ªis that what you call ¡¯didn¡¯t¡¯?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily speechless.

    She had clearly saved him, but now he wanted to settle ounts after the fact?

    Seeing Su Qingnuan frown, her lips pout, but saying nothing,

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows and pressed on. "What? Dissatisfied?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "No."

    "Hmph!"

    Su Qingnuan sat up straight, not daring to speak.

    Fu Yihan stared at her for a while but didn¡¯t say anything further.

    The atmosphere grew eerily silent.

    In the heavy tension, Su Qingnuan suddenly scooted back slightly, shifting her weight and distancing herself from Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression shifted. "What are you doing?"

    Su Qingnuan froze and looked at him, her eyes filled with grievance. "My leg¡¯s numb..."

    It turned out that one of her legs had been tucked beneath her the whole time, and after sitting too long, it had gone numb.

    Fu Yihan paused, his brows knitting tightly.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly lowered her head.

    "Young Master, the bed has been made," Ah Qi said as he came out of the room and stood by Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan let out a soft "Mm" and raised his arm.

    Ah Qi crouched down, hoisted Fu Yihan onto his back, and carried him back to the room.

    Watching Fu Yihan finally return to his room, Su Qingnuan breathed a sigh of relief and returned to her own.

    The whole night felt like a dream. Lying on her bed, she thought back to how she felt during the acupuncture and couldn¡¯t help but reflect.

    As a child, she¡¯d spent almost a year in the hospital and frequently visited the doctor who specialized in acupuncture and learned from him. Fortunately, she hadn¡¯t forgotten those skills.

    Though Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t a physician, she was very familiar with the body¡¯s meridians and could handle pain relief at least.

    Now that Fu Yihan had seen her abilities, he would surely value her more¡ªwouldn¡¯t he?

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    With that blissful thought, she drifted off to sleep.

    Come the next day, when Su Qingnuan saw Fu Yihan again, she noticed his pallor.

    "Mr. Fu? Are you feeling unwell?"

    Fu Yihan raised a hand, covering his mouth, and coughed softly a few times.

    A cold?

    Su Qingnuan nced at Ah Qi, who appeared just as bewildered.

    Fu Yihan had caught a cold.

    Even Old Master Fu frowned at the sight of him coughing incessantly.

    Watching the scene, the elder¡¯s tone turned stern. "Go to the hospital."

    Fu Yihan frowned. "No."

    "... This time, you don¡¯t have a choice. Ah Qi!"

    Fu Yihan nced at Ah Qi. "If you dare touch me, you¡¯re fired on the spot."

    Ah Qi froze momentarily before quietly stepping back.

    "Fu Yihan! Refusing the hospital despite being sick¡ªwhat are you trying to do?" Old Master Fu roared. "Fine, I¡¯ll call a doctor to the house instead!"

    Fu Yihan arched a brow. "Call Qin Chuan."

    "... That rascal is a surgeon! What¡¯s he going to do for you?!"

 Chapter 36 My Foot

    <h4>Chapter 36: Chapter 36 My Foot</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan paid no attention to the raging Old Master Fu. With a pale face, faintly tinged red from excessive coughing, he casually covered his mouth, his expression indifferent.

    The flush did nothing to improve hisplexion; if anything, it made him appear even more peculiar.

    "Yihan! Listen to your grandfather¡¯s advice. Get a professional doctor to take a look at what¡¯s really wrong with you!" the old man said urgently.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold gaze swept over, and in the calm void of his eyes, not a ripple stirred¡ªlike that of a man teetering on the edge of death.

    "..."

    The grandfather and grandson inexplicably fell into a standoff.

    After a long silence, it was the old man who finally chose topromise.

    "Fine, but I have one condition: Qin Chuan cane, but he must bring along another professional doctor."

    "Cough, cough..." Fu Yihan¡¯s cheeks flushed red, and he nodded slightly. "Okay."

    And with that, they reached an amicable agreement.

    The old man hurriedly seized the moment to call Qin Chuan and another doctor toe.

    Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan onto the sofa to sit down and asked quietly, "Mr. Fu, are you alright? Yourplexion doesn¡¯t look good."

    Fu Yihan cracked his eyes open slightly, casually nced at her, then closed them again.

    What did that mean?

    Su Qingnuan was baffled.

    Fortunately, the doctors arrived not long after.

    When Qin Chuan saw his condition, he frowned slightly but said nothing, only greeting the old man with warmth.

    "Qin Chuan!" The old man looked at Qin Chuan apologetically, sighing softly. "I know you¡¯re a surgeon, and asking you to treat him is a bit unreasonable. But this brat insisted on having you here, so I had no choice."

    "It¡¯s alright." Qin Chuan shed the cold demeanor he carried earlier and smiled at the old man. "I¡¯ll treat it like doing a favor. We¡¯re friends¡ªno need for so many formalities, don¡¯t worry."

    "Good, good, good!" The old man beamed at him. "You¡¯re all good kids, I know that."

    Though Qin Chuan was expected to treat him, when the professional doctor ced his hands on Fu Yihan for examination, he didn¡¯t resist.

    "It¡¯s just a cold," the doctor said softly. "Did the Eldest Young Master sweat excessivelyst night?"

    Though the question was directed at those around him, it was Su Qingnuan sitting nearby him at the moment.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan¡¯s flushed cheeks and nodded slightly. "Yes, he sweated a lotst night, butter he changed his clothes."

    "That exins it."

    The doctor straightened Fu Yihan¡¯s clothes and turned to the old man.

    "Old Master, no need to worry. It¡¯s been diagnosed¡ªit¡¯s just a regr cold. He needs to take medicine on time and keep warm."

    Upon hearing this, the old man let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you."

    "You¡¯re too kind, Old Master! Look at how you worked yourself up¡ªyou might¡¯ve broken into a sweat yourself. Why don¡¯t you go inside and change clothes? I¡¯ll take care of Yihan," Qin Chuan said with a chuckle.

    The old man stopped in his tracks, nced at the lying Fu Yihan, then ultimately said nothing as he retreated into his room.

    Once the old man walked into the room, Qin Chuan finally turned to Fu Yihan. "What¡¯s the problem? Why won¡¯t you properly rest at home? Always stirring up trouble with the old man."

    His tone carried a trace of reproach.

    Fu Yihan finally opened his eyes and gave him a faint nce before speaking in a low voice. "Take me upstairs."

    Qin Chuan pressed the wheelchair handles with a grumble. "You really think the world revolves around you, don¡¯t you? Everything has to be just so."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t deny it¡ªhe only closed his eyes again.

    Seeing this, Qin Chuan grew even more irritated and pushed the wheelchair quickly.

    Su Qingnuan watched the two figures gradually disappear at the elevator entrance, while Ah Qi remained standing there as still as a statue.

    "Aren¡¯t you going up?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Ah Qi shook his head. "If we need to go, the Eldest Young Master will inform us."

    "...Alright."

    Watching their fading silhouettes, Su Qingnuan sat down.

    Though she sat down, her gaze remained fixed on the direction of the elevator.

    Ah Qi said nothing, his eyes towards Su Qingnuan now holding a subtle look of curiosity.

    When the old man emerged again, he found the living room now vacant.

    "Where is everyone?" the old man raised his voice, calling out, "Fu Yihan! What are you doing upstairs?"

    No response came. Both Ah Qi and Su Qingnuan sat silently with their heads lowered, iming to know nothing.

    Meanwhile, upstairs, Fu Yihany on a bed. The fabric of his cks had been pulled to his thighs, revealing two mottled, scarred legs.

    "You¡¯re saying they moved on their ownst night?" Qin Chuan asked, his voice tinged with doubt.

    Fu Yihan uttered an affirmative "Mm," pointing to a spot on his knee. "Last night, Su Qingnuan used acupuncture needles here, and my calves suddenly moved."

    "Huh!" Qin Chuan rested his chin on his palm, circling Fu Yihan¡¯s legs thoughtfully.

    Fu Yihan frowned and said seriously, "What do you see?"

    "....." Qin Chuan stood upright, shrugged helplessly. "Without proper equipment, I can¡¯t see anything."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s re sharpened, as though attempting to bore a hole through Qin Chuan¡¯s body.

    "Hey, hey, hey! Don¡¯t look at me like that!" Qin Chuan protested. "I¡¯m trying to think of a solution here. Just wait a bit."

    "To be honest," Qin Chuan continued earnestly, "if you truly want answers, then calling me might¡¯ve been the right choice. Give me one day, alright?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s icy re intensified.

    "No time to wait. If you can¡¯t do it, I¡¯ll find someone else."

    "Hey, hey, hey!" Qin Chuan pressed him back firmly, speaking sternly. "Hold on. Let me exin first."

    Fu Yihan frowned and watched him.

    Qin Chuan gestured toward Fu Yihan¡¯s legs, speaking in a resigned tone. "The movement you spoke about¡ªit¡¯s called a pater reflex. Normally, stimting a particr nerve in the knee causes it to respond this way. But given your legs¡¯ nerve damage, it shouldn¡¯t be functional. So how did such a response ur?"

    A glint surfaced in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes.

    "You mean to say....."

    Qin Chuan nodded cautiously. "We can¡¯t rule out the possibility, but specific tests are necessary to confirm."

    Standing upright with arms crossed, Qin Chuan stated firmly, "This time, you can¡¯t refuse any further. We won¡¯t head to the hospital, but your vi has the equipment. In two days, I¡¯ll bring a team to conduct a thorough examination there. We¡¯ll draw conclusions based on the results."

    "Alright."

    Fu Yihan lowered the hem of his cks without a hint of emotion.

    Seeing this, Qin Chuan sighed. "If it really works, your legs might have a chance at recovery. But looking at your expression¡ªwhy aren¡¯t you even slightly excited?"

    Fu Yihan cast him a fleeting nce, propping himself onto the edge of the bed.

    "The greater the hope, the greater the disappointment. At this point, it¡¯s better not to hope at all from the start."

    "..."

    Over the years, when it came to these legs, Fu Yihan had learned countless lessons¡ªincluding this particr truth.

    But words like those, falling upon someone else¡¯s ears, were nothing short of grating.

 Chapter 37: Photos

    <h4>Chapter 37: Chapter 37: Photos</h4><h4></h4>

    Qin Chuan nced at his cold, hard side profile and spoke earnestly, "Don¡¯t worry, if there¡¯s a chance this time, I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to cure you."

    Fu Yihan paused, shot him a look, and extended his hand, "Give me the cane."

    "..."

    cing the cane in Fu Yihan¡¯s hand, Qin Chuan said with a deadpan expression, "You¡¯re no fun."

    Fu Yihan sneered coldly, "I¡¯m not a girl. If you found me fun, that would be worrisome."

    Qin Chuan froze for a second, staring at Fu Yihan in surprise.

    "What?" Fu Yihan¡¯s smile didn¡¯t waver, "Haven¡¯t been trashed by me in a while, and you¡¯re wanting it again today?"

    "No!" Qin Chuan, rmed, pressed down on Fu Yihan¡¯s shoulder, "Are you joking with me right now?"

    Fu Yihan looked at him nkly, "Are you an idiot?"

    "Oh my god, you have no idea! It¡¯s been ages since you cracked a cold joke with anyone. This is great news! Absolutely fantastic news!"

    Excitedly, Qin Chuan gripped the armrest and pushed Fu Yihan out, chattering non-stop along the way.

    Fu Yihan frowned, covering his ears to block him out.

    The two of them descended the stairs and saw a few people sitting on the sofa, waiting.

    ...

    Fu Yixing noticed Fu Yihan¡¯s pale face and broke into a bright smile.

    "Big brother, we heard you weren¡¯t feeling well, so we specifically put aside work at thepany toe visit you."

    "Indeed, Yihan." Yun Meifeng stood up, her face full of smiles, "Would you like something to eat? Shall I make you some porridge?"

    "No need." Fu Yihan kept his face cold, gazing expressionlessly at Su Qingnuan, "What are you still sitting there for?"

    Su Qingnuan immediately stood up and jogged over.

    "Grandpa, Qin Chuan and I are going out for dinner. We¡¯ll return in the evening."

    "Eh!" The old master of the Fu family quickly blocked their way, frowning as he said, "You¡¯re just recovering from a cold and now you want to go out? No way! Having dinner can wait for another day. Stay home and recuperate today!"

    Fu Yihan frowned.

    Qin Chuan, sharp-eyed and quick-witted, ced himself between the two, smiling gently, "Grandpa, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m taking Yihan to the hot springs. You know how it is with colds, especially these chills¡ªthey need warmth to recover faster!"

    The old master shot a skeptical look at the doctor behind him and asked, "Is that true?"

    The doctor chuckled and nodded, "It does indeed help."

    After hesitating for a moment, the old master finally stepped aside slowly, muttering under his breath, "Come back early."

    "Got it!" Qin Chuan grinned, "I guarantee I¡¯ll bring Yihan back safe and sound. Rest assured, Grandpa."

    With that, the old master smiled and nodded.

    Watching the two leave, the old master let out a faint sigh.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan followed the pair out of the Fu house, a hint of confusion on her face. If they were going to the hot springs, why did they have to bring her?

    Noticing her dawdling behind in a daze, Qin Chuan raised his voice, "Hey! What¡¯s with all the dragging your feet? Hurry up."

    Su Qingnuan snapped back to her senses and jogged over.

    "Mr. Fu, am I going too?" She cautiously asked the man already seated in the car.

    Fu Yihan turned his head slightly, giving her a sidelong nce as he calmly asked, "Don¡¯t want to?"

    "No, it¡¯s just..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes darted toward Qin Chuan, who looked spirited, and she murmured softly, "It just seems inappropriate. You two are men, and I¡¯m a woman, so..."

    Qin Chuan: "....."

    He looked her up and down before bursting intoughter, "Seriously? Men, women¡ªwhat are you on about? Which part of you hasn¡¯t Yihan seen already? Why act all shy now?"

    "I haven¡¯t... you, you, you!"

    "....." Su Qingnuan¡¯s face flushed bright red, unable to utter a word.

    The redness that had receded from Fu Yihan¡¯s face returned once again.

    "Ahem." Fu Yihan coughed violently a couple of times before finally recovering and saying tersely, "Stop wasting time. Get in the car."

    His tone was clipped andmanding.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated before reluctantly getting in the car.

    Sitting in the backseat, Su Qingnuan had never thought that even riding in a car could feel so agonizing.

    Though Qin Chuan sat in the passenger seat, his eyes constantly darted toward Su Qingnuan in the back.

    Every time their gazes met, she was met with a fierce re.

    Eventually, Su Qingnuan simply lowered her head, refusing to meet his gaze anymore.

    "Qin Chuan,"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cool voice suddenly rang out.

    Qin Chuan turned his head, "What?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s chilly gazended on his neck, "Doesn¡¯t that hurt?"

    Qin Chuan: "....."

    Seeing Qin Chuan turn back around, Su Qingnuan finally let out a long breath of relief. She really didn¡¯t want to be grilled by anyone anymore; the feeling was utterly terrifying.

    The car drove for a long time before finally stopping.

    Su Qingnuan poked her head out and realized they weren¡¯t at a hot spring at all but at a factory.

    "It¡¯s inside?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Qin Chuan nodded, "Yeah, they¡¯re waiting inside."

    He pushed Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair toward the entrance.

    The path to the factory was a paved cement road, neither broken down nor shabby. In fact, the factory itself seemed quite new, not decrepit at all.

    The guards at the gate didn¡¯t stop them; instead, they opened the door directly, letting them in.

    Su Qingnuan took a step back, falling in line beside Ah Qi, and whispered, "Ah Qi, where is this?"

    Ah Qi gave her a nce and lowered his voice to reply, "Don¡¯t speak. Just follow."

    "...Alright."

    Following the other two, they eventually stopped outside a building.

    Qin Chuan looked up and suddenly raised his voice, shouting, "Gong Qi! Where are you?"

    As soon as the words were out, a head popped out from the third floor.

    "Up here!" Gong Qi looked down at them with a mischievous grin on his face, "Here so early? I thought I had some time to wait!"

    Qin Chuan gestured toward the person in the wheelchair, shouting back, "No need to wait. Someone here can¡¯t hold it anymore."

    Gong Qi nodded knowingly, "Alright. Wait for me at the door; I¡¯ll be right down."

    With that, his head disappeared from view.

    Qin Chuan pushed Fu Yihan further inside.

    The two of them went straight to the deepest part of the building, where there was an iron door.

    The windows on either side let in no light, making the area look pitch dark and rather eerie.

    "Still not here?" Qin Chuan impatiently turned his head.

    Just as the words left his mouth, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed around them.

    Soon, Gong Qi appeared before them.

    He clutched arge ring of keys in his hand, panting as he arrived at the iron door.

    "Finally, you¡¯re here. Anyter, and I was tempted to let them go back."

    "Let them go?" Qin Chuan gave him a meaningful nce, smirking, "You dare let them go? Our boss hasn¡¯t had his fun yet. How could you let them go?"

    Gong Qi shoved him lightly, rolling his eyes.

    "Alright, cut it out with the sarcasm. If you want to be snarky, save it forter."

    Hearing this, Qin Chuan promptly apologized, "Alright, alright! My bad."

 Chapter 38: After modification - 38 The Chief Culprit

    <h4>Chapter 38: After modification: Chapter 38 The Chief Culprit</h4><h4></h4>

    The door opened mid-conversation between the two.

    Inside, it was pitch ck, making it impossible to see clearly.

    A strange smell wafted out from the doorway.

    Qin Chuan covered his nose and frowned. "Did you guys beat someone up?"

    "Haven¡¯t evenid a finger on him. He scared himself and pissed his pants already."

    "....."

    "p¡ª"

    The pitch-ck room suddenly lit up. A man, bound tightly with ropes,y soaked on the ground.

    The strange smell they noticed earlier was emanating from him.

    Fu Yihan frowned. "Wake him up."

    Qin Chuan took a step back and looked at Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi frowned and nudged him. "You do it! I¡¯ve been the one doing it all the previous times!"

    Qin Chuan turned his back, pretending not to see anything.

    As the two bickered, Ah Qi suddenly stepped inside and delivered two kicks to the man lying there.

    "Uh¡ª"

    Everyone watched as the man slowly regained consciousness, his dazed eyes scanning them nkly.

    A momentter, his eyes widened in terror as he let out a piercing scream. "Aaaaaaaaah!"

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but cover her ears.

    Even the perpetually indifferent Fu Yihan massaged his temples in irritation.

    Ah Qi frowned slightly and kicked the man again.

    The man yelped in pain, and his screaming abruptly stopped.

    "A grown man screaming like some woman¡ªdon¡¯t you feel ashamed?" Qin Chuan mocked mercilessly.

    Wu Feng nced at Fu Yihan¡¯s cold face, his lips trembling. "Eldest Young Master... Fu, Eldest Young Master... It wasn¡¯t me, I swear it wasn¡¯t me!"

    "It wasn¡¯t you?" Fu Yihan chuckled softly. "Then who was it?"

    Wu Feng suddenly fell silent.

    "Oh?" Gong Qi smirked. "Is it that you can¡¯t say? Or that you don¡¯t want to say?"

    Wu Feng bit his lip, his eyes filled with torment and hesitation.

    Gong Qi strode across the damp floor toward him.

    "Wu Feng, you better think carefully. Yesterday, we didn¡¯t even do anything to you, and you¡¯re already this terrified. If we really start today, do you think you¡¯ll even survive it?"

    Wu Feng¡¯s face turned deathly pale, staring at him in fear.

    Gong Qi crouched down to meet his gaze. "If you tell us now, there might still be time, understand?"

    Wu Feng¡¯s body trembled slightly, his head drooping lower as though he wanted toy it t on the ground.

    Gong Qi frowned and pushed his head. "Still not talking?"

    "It really wasn¡¯t me!" Wu Feng cried, his voice quivering.

    Fu Yihan turned his head toward Su Qingnuan.

    "Did you see the person who came banging on the door that day?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded. "I did."

    "Go check if it was him."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated briefly before carefully moving closer to Wu Feng.

    Ah Qi suddenly grabbed Wu Feng¡¯s head and yanked it up, making it easier for Su Qingnuan to see.

    That face, now unobscured by hair¡ªSu Qingnuan recognized it instantly. "No mistake, it¡¯s him!"

    Gong Qi sneered. "Now we have a witness. Still trying to lie?"

    Wu Feng¡¯s eyes glistened with tears as he whimpered, "I was wrong! Young Master Fu, I was wrong! This wasn¡¯t my idea, really, it wasn¡¯t!"

    "Not your idea?" Qin Chuan asked with a mocking grin. "Then whose idea was it? Spill, and maybe we¡¯ll leave you with one leg."

    "..."

    Wu Feng trembled all over, shrinking back as he looked at them.

    "If I... If I tell you, can you let me leave this ce?"

    "Leave this ce?" Gong Qi chuckled lightly. "Depends on whether what you say is worth the price."

    "..."

    Wu Feng remained silent for a long time. No one rushed him, except that Ah Qi would asionally tug cruelly at his hair, causing him pain.

    Meanwhile, Qin Chuan strolled over, gesturing toward his legs while grinning. "These legs could probably be donated to someone else. Not bad."

    Wu Feng was too frightened to utter another word.

    Finally, after a long pause, Wu Feng relented.

    "I¡¯ll tell! I¡¯ll tell!"

    His eyes darted nervously around the room, his heart sinking even further.

    Qin Chuan stood up, pulling out a handkerchief to wipe off the grime on his hands. He frowned. "See, you could¡¯ve just told us from the start. Why waste our time?"

    Wu Feng looked at him helplessly, forcing a bitter smile. "But I have one condition: you can¡¯t tell anyone it was me who said it."

    Hearing this, Qin Chuan looked toward Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. He smiled and nodded. "Alright."

    Wu Feng finally breathed a sigh of relief, nodding fervently. "It was that youngdy from the Jiang family. She had me find someone to open the door."

    "The Jiang family? Which one?" Qin Chuan asked with a puzzled look.

    Qin Chuan turned toward those at the door and muttered under his breath, "Lovesick admirer."

    "Ah... that one... Still clinging, huh?"

    "No clue... Been rejected several times already."

    "Such a nuisance."

    Su Qingnuan, though not far from them, clearly heard their conversation. Unconsciously, her gaze shifted toward Fu Yihan.

    As fate would have it, he seemed to be looking at her too. Their eyes met.

    Su Qingnuan coughed awkwardly and quickly averted her gaze.

    "What¡¯s wrong, sis-inw?" Gong Qi asked with concern. "No AC here, so it¡¯s a bit chilly. Why don¡¯t you go stand outside with Yihan?"

    "....No need."

    She wasn¡¯t ready to face the awkwardness of standing beside him yet. It was less ufortable staying here.

    "You said it was that youngdy from the Jiang family. Do you have any evidence?" Ah Qi asked cautiously.

    Wu Feng froze briefly before speaking, "I remember she had even called a reporter, but since the door wouldn¡¯t open, the reporter got impatient and left."

    "A reporter?" Gong Qi frowned. "We can¡¯t exactly drag a reporter in as a witness, can we? That would blow things up publicly."

    Qin Chuan said nothing, but when he turned, he noticed Su Qingnuan staring intently at the floor with a thoughtful expression. He sneered. "What¡¯s so fascinating down there that you keep staring?"

    Su Qingnuan lifted her gaze, now serious. She locked eyes with him.

    Qin Chuan frowned. "What is it?"

    "I just remembered," Su Qingnuan said with a furrowed brow. "That day, there really was a man and a woman. I blocked the door with the sofa and the cab so they couldn¡¯t get in, but I heard them talking. The man asked the woman if Fu Yihan was really inside."

    "She heard it!" Wu Feng eximed excitedly. "She said she heard it!"

    Gong Qi looked at Su Qingnuan in surprise. "You could hear them through the door?"

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her ear awkwardly with a small smile. "I¡¯ve studied music since I was a child, so my hearing is much sharper than most people."

    In truth, there was another reason. As a child confined to a hospital bed for too long, she would spend her nights listening intently to footsteps outside, hoping to discern if her parents hade to visit. Over time, her hearing developed to this extraordinary level.

    "Amazing!" Gong Qi gave her a thumbs-up with augh. "Sis-inw, you¡¯re incredible!"

    "If you heard that voice again, could you recognize it?" Fu Yihan suddenly asked.

    Su Qingnuan paused for a moment, then nodded without hesitation. "Yes."

 Chapter 39 Good News

    <h4>Chapter 39: Chapter 39 Good News</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan looked at Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi nodded knowingly and took out his phone.

    Hearing the beeping sound from the phone, Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, but quickly snapped back to reality.

    Are they really going to question her directly over the phone?

    "Hello?"

    A clear female voice rang out, and Gong Qi¡¯s lips curled into a smile: "Miss Jiang, long time no see!"

    There was a moment of silence on the other end before a voice replied: "Gong Qi, you wouldn¡¯t call unless you had something important. What¡¯s the matter?"

    "It¡¯s nothing serious, I just have a few questions for you."

    "Questions?" The woman sneered, "Don¡¯t pull that trick on me. Did Fu Yihan ask you to call me?"

    Gong Qi paused briefly and looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze fell on Su Qingnuan, clearly waiting for her response.

    Su Qingnuan frowned and whispered, "It seems like it."

    It seemed like it, but Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t fully certain if it was really her.

    Fu Yihan nodded at Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi¡¯s smile remained unchanged as he continued, "That¡¯s right! Yihan asked me to ask you¡ªwas it fun?"

    "Hmph! Fun? Of course, it was fun." Miss Jiang sneered, "No need for your investigations everywhere. Yes, it was me."

    Gong Qi raised an eyebrow slightly and gave Fu Yihan a meaningful look.

    "Miss Jiang is so straightforward?"

    "I know you¡¯ve detained Wu Feng. Release him." Miss Jiang demanded casually from the other end.

    Gong Qi chuckled lightly but didn¡¯t respond, instead handing the phone to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan took the phone, his voice still icy cold.

    "Terms."

    There was a pause, a long silence, before Miss Jiang¡¯s voice came through again.

    "Fu Yihan, what do you want?"

    "Heh." A coldugh, and Fu Yihan hung up the phone.

    "Just hung up like that?" Qin Chuan raised an eyebrow and teased, "Not going to say anything more?"

    Fu Yihan nced at him with a frosty expression, "What would you like me to say?"

    "I thought Miss Jiang would show off her previous skills, cling on and nag until you release him!" Qin Chuan said gleefully.

    Gong Qi nudged his elbow, gently whispering, "Didn¡¯t you see she didn¡¯t even finish before he hung up?"

    Just as the words fell, the phone in Fu Yihan¡¯s hand rang again.

    Fu Yihan nced at it and tossed the phone to Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi deftly caught the phone and sighed helplessly, "Don¡¯t take your anger out on my phone¡ªit¡¯s innocent."

    Fu Yihan gave him a look, then turned away: "Handle it. Have them give an exnation on her end."

    "Hey, hey!" Watching Fu Yihan¡¯s retreating figure, Gong Qi chuckled, "This doesn¡¯t seem like your typical style!"

    Fu Yihan walked away, but whether he heard this or not was unclear.

    Gong Qi smiled bitterly as he looked at the phone, still vibrating non-stop, and sighed silently.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan quickly followed Fu Yihan.

    Hearing the sound of footsteps, Fu Yihan stopped.

    Su Qingnuan walked up naturally, pushing Fu Yihan as they continued heading outside.

    "Are we leaving now?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    "To the courtyard outside."

    Su Qingnuan nodded and continued pushing him outside.

    Outside the small building, there was a not-toorge courtyard, where Su Qingnuan pushed him to stand on an open patch of ground.

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes and looked at the sky.

    The cool breeze brushed past, feeling especially refreshing.

    "Do you know about the feud between the Jiang family and your Su family?"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, looking at Fu Yihan in confusion.

    Fu Yihan pressed his lips together, his expression still cold, yet tinged with an inexplicable knot of emotion.

    "Mr. Fu, if you don¡¯t want to talk about it, there¡¯s no need to force yourself," Su Qingnuan said considerately.

    "Force myself?" Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled into a smile, "No, not at all. I just find it curious that you don¡¯t know about this."

    Su Qingnuan frowned, "Not knowing is strange?"

    Fu Yihan sneered coldly, "Back then, the Su family and the Jiang family nearly tore each other apart over this. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s strange you wouldn¡¯t know?"

    That was indeed strange...

    But Su Qingnuan had never understood the Su family¡¯s business matters since she was young, let alone anything about conflicts like this.

    "Back then, between the Su family and Jiang family, the old man chose the Su family. The Jiang family¡¯s hatred toward your Su family must have heightened even further because of that."

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly.

    "What does that mean?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "Chose the Su family?"

    "What else?" Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze held a flicker of amusement, "Why do you think, among so many suitable families, they chose yours?"

    She wasn¡¯t chosen; she was forced to ept.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her eyes and stared at her fingernails.

    "So Mr. Fu is trying to say that if it weren¡¯t the Su family, it would have been the Jiang family, is that right?"

    "Haha!" Fu Yihan turned back, his icy eyes fixed quietly on Su Qingnuan, "Not at all. It was always the Su family, never the Jiang family."

    He retracted his gaze and looked up at the sky.

    "This was predetermined from the start."

    Seeing his serious expression, Su Qingnuan¡¯s curiosity grew.

    "Why was the Su family the priority?"

    Compared to the Su family¡¯s strength, the Jiang family was clearly much stronger, so why was the Su family chosen?

    From their earlier conversation, it was clear this Miss Jiang had been set on marrying Fu Yihan, whether or not he had any disabilities.

    All considered, the Jiang family should have been the obvious choice.

    Fu Yihan turned back and met Su Qingnuan¡¯s confused gaze, a flicker of something unusual shing in his own eyes.

    "What?" Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled by his stare, "Do I have something dirty on my face?"

    "No." Fu Yihan looked away, expressionless as his gaze lingered on the distance ahead, "If you want the specifics, just ask your parents yourself."

    "....."

    The mention of her parents instantly rendered Su Qingnuan silent.

    The otherwise fine atmosphere suddenly grew awkward.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and averted her gaze elsewhere.

    When Gong Qi and the others came out with the group, they saw the two standing there stiffly like statues, unmoving.

    "What¡¯s going on here?" Gong Qi chuckled as he approached, breaking the awkwardness from earlier, "Arguing?"

    Fu Yihan nced at him, his brow furrowed, "So nosy."

    Seeing this, Gong Qi immediately sobered his expression and spoke seriously, "Miss Jiang¡¯s terms are clear now¡ªten shops on Yanxi Street."

    Fu Yihan nodded, "Fine."

    "Then it¡¯ll be settled." Gong Qi pped his hands with a soft smile, "We¡¯ll return Wu Feng now, and as for you two....."

    His gaze darted between the pair, his smile mischievous, "You won¡¯t need us to escort you, right?"

    Su Qingnuan looked away awkwardly, lowering her gaze to the ground.

    Fu Yihan snorted lightly, his eyes fixed straight ahead: "Let¡¯s go."

    As soon as the words fell, he had already turned his wheelchair and was moving forward.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly followed to push him along.

    The two got into the car, with Qin Chuan joining them.

    "Why are you still here?" Fu Yihan asked impatiently.

    Qin Chuan froze, thenughed, "Brother, that¡¯s quite the harsh dismissal! We¡¯re not even at the Fu residence yet!"

    "You don¡¯t need toe back with us."

    "...So heartless....."

 Chapter 40 Miss Jiang Visits

    <h4>Chapter 40: Chapter 40 Miss Jiang Visits</h4><h4></h4>

    Qin Chuan was thus kicked out of the car, and Su Qingnuan caught sight of his expression¡ªit didn¡¯t seem like he was too upset.

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan, then quickly looked away again.

    Fu Yihan narrowed his eyes, leaning against the backrest of the chair, looking utterly exhausted.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare say a word and pressed herself tightly against the car door.

    After an unknown amount of time, the man suddenly opened his eyes.

    "Don¡¯t head back yet. Go to a nearby mall."

    A Qi turned back. "Eldest Young Master wants a massage?"

    Fu Yihan shook his head, propping his body upright. "Pick out two sets of clothes for Eldest Young Madam."

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly waved her hands. "I have plenty of clothes! I..."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s icy gaze, Su Qingnuan¡¯s voice gradually faded.

    "In the future, there will be plenty of asions where you¡¯ll need to appear with me. Do you n to get by with just those few pieces of clothing?"

    "... Those clothes haven¡¯t been worn more than a few times... they¡¯re still pretty..."

    "Stop spouting nonsense!"

    The stern tone silenced Su Qingnuan.

    What¡¯s with this man? Changing his attitude is faster than flipping a page... truly hard to handle...

    Following Fu Yihan¡¯s orders, the group headed to thergest mall nearby.

    Fu Yihan remained seated in the car and did not step out.

    "You have two hours." Fu Yihan checked his watch and said.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, puzzled. "I¡¯m supposed to go by myself?"

    Fu Yihan raised a brow. "Do you want me to apany you?"

    "... Got it."

    Su Qingnuan walked into the mall, ncing back every few steps.

    She hadn¡¯t been out shopping in a long time¡ªfirstly, because she didn¡¯t have spare money, and secondly, because she had no one to go with.

    Looking at the bustling mall, Su Qingnuan felt a moment of discouragement.

    Soon, she perked herself up again and started walking.

    Half an hourter, Su Qingnuan wandered aimlessly, empty-handed.

    He just said to buy new clothes, but didn¡¯t specify what kind...

    Su Qingnuan held her phone, her expression hesitant.

    "Call?"

    Su Qingnuan paused.

    "Not call?"

    "..."

    She paced back and forth, circling the spot multiple times.

    "How annoying!" Su Qingnuan frowned, putting her phone back away.

    Beside her was a giant ss panel disying mannequins with shapely figures, dressed in expensive-looking outfits.

    Su Qingnuan blinked, staring at the clothes for a while before rounding the panel and entering the store.

    A short whileter, Su Qingnuan emerged carrying two bags of clothes.

    Feeling satisfied, she headed to the underground car park, locating Fu Yihan¡¯s car.

    The car door opened, and Su Qingnuan smiled. "I¡¯m done shopping."

    Fu Yihan nced at her, extending his hand.

    Su Qingnuan handed over the bags she was holding.

    Fu Yihan pulled out an item and, after just one look, tossed the bag back.

    "Get in the car. Let¡¯s go."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s still slightly smiling lips immediately turned downward.

    The car slowly drove out of the parking lot. Just as Su Qingnuan was feeling pleased with herself, Fu Yihan¡¯s cold voice rang out again.

    "A Qi, contact the designer and have theme to the house."

    A Qi turned back, giving Su Qingnuan a meaningful look. "Understood."

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    So, does this mean she¡¯s been rejected? Or epted?

    Su Qingnuan cautiously nced at Fu Yihan, who remained expressionless as he gazed out the window, leaving her not even a trace of a reaction.

    Su Qingnuan sighed softly, withdrawing her gaze.

    When they returned to the Fu residence, Su Qingnuan spotted a group of unfamiliar people standing at the entrance.

    "Eldest Young Master, the people have arrived."

    Fu Yihan nodded, looking at Su Qingnuan. "Go on in."

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly, pointing at herself. "Me first?"

    "Mm."

    "..."

    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something unpleasant awaited her ahead.

    Su Qingnuan cautiously pushed open the door.

    What met her eyes left her frozen in shock.

    Such a scene could only be described as a grand spectacle.

    From the doorway inward, extending all the way through, were rows upon rows of clothing racks adorned with dazzling outfits that made Su Qingnuan feel overwhelmed.

    "What¡¯s going on..." she asked, astonished.

    "This must be the Eldest Young Madam?" A sudden voice broke her thoughts.

    A slender man with hollow cheeks but brightly painted makeup approached her.

    "Hmm? Isn¡¯t that so?" He stepped closer to Su Qingnuan and, seeing her unresponsive, asked curiously.

    Su Qingnuan immediately stood upright, smiling. "Yes."

    "Alright then." The man took Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand, leading her further inside. "These are all this season¡¯s newest fashions. Eldest Young Madam, take your time and see if there¡¯s anything you like."

    Everywhere she looked, there were vibrant colors and dazzling patterns.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression turned uneasy as she nced backward.

    Fu Yihan had been brought inside by A Qi.

    He didn¡¯t seem surprised by the scene, his gaze resting on the man beside Su Qingnuan.

    "You pick something for her."

    The man paused, surprised, looking at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan nced down at her attire and asked hesitantly, "Is there something wrong with it?"

    "No, nothing." The man withdrew his gaze, leading her further inside. "Since Eldest Young Master gave the order, we¡¯ll naturally take special care of Eldest Young Madam."

    With that, he pushed Su Qingnuan forward.

    She was ushered upstairs, where a line of people stood before her, holding armfuls of clothing.

    "Alright, Eldest Young Madam, let¡¯s see which one you like. Go ahead and pick." The man said with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan randomly pointed at one item. "This one, I guess."

    "..."

    The man coughed awkwardly and whispered, "Eldest Young Madam, this one might not suit you."

    "..." Su Qingnuan looked at another option and asked softly, "What about this one?"

    "... Let¡¯s give it a try, shall we?"

    Su Qingnuan took the garment and went in to try it on, only to emerge shortly afterward still holding it.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" the man asked, puzzled.

    Su Qingnuan replied awkwardly, "It seems a bit big."

    Compared to most people, her physique was far more slender, so she couldn¡¯t fit into the clothes the others usually wore.

    "Hold on, I¡¯ll find something." The man selected another outfit from the group and handed it to Su Qingnuan. "Try this one."

    Su Qingnuan nodded and went back inside.

    It turned out not to be just one item; many of them didn¡¯t fit.

    The man frowned and had to use pins to temporarily adjust the clothes to fit her somewhat. They¡¯d struggled to find even three items suitable for her.

    Su Qingnuan sat down, her forehead already damp with sweat.

    "You¡¯ve worked hard, Eldest Young Madam." The man smiled, holding the clothes in his arms. "We¡¯ll tailor the measurements and deliver them to you."

    Su Qingnuan nodded. "Thank you."

    She watched the man leave with his team, then cautiously headed downstairs.

    Fu Yihan and the others were still sitting downstairs, apparently discussing something.

    The designer from earlier had already left, leaving only Fu Yihan and A Qi in the living room now.

    Hearing a sound, Fu Yihan nced up toward the staircase.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, standing upright.

 Chapter 41 Visit

    <h4>Chapter 41: Chapter 41 Visit</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze lingered on her for a while before retracting.

    "Come over and sit down."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment, then quickly jogged over.

    Seeing her obediently standing by his side, Fu Yihan patted the sofa: "Sit."

    Su Qingnuan sat down cautiously and asked, "What¡¯s wrong?"

    "We¡¯re having guests here tomorrow. You need to prepare."

    Guests? She needed to prepare for guests?

    Su Qingnuan looked at Fu Yihan in confusion.

    Fu Yihan gave her a meaningful look and said in a low voice, "You¡¯ll know who they are when they arrive tomorrow."

    "...."

    It was shrouded in mystery¡ªwho could it possibly be?

    "If the Old Master askster about where we went today, you should know what to say, right?" Fu Yihan suddenly asked.

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, looking at him in confusion.

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows: "You don¡¯t know?"

    "I know..."

    So he just wanted her to lie? Adding so many unnecessary formalities...

    "Good that you know."

    As soon as he spoke, the sound of the Old Master¡¯s cheerfulughter came from the entrance.

    "It¡¯s rare to have time off. Staying outside for so long today was nice."

    "Indeed. I wonder how Yihan¡¯s health is these days."

    The voices outside gradually came closer, and then the Old Master and Yun Meifeng walked in.

    When they saw them, the Old Master¡¯s expression was half surprised, half doubtful as he asked, "Back so soon? Yihan, are you feeling any better?"

    Fu Yihan covered his lips and coughed lightly: "Nothing serious."

    "That¡¯s good." The Old Master sighed, "You¡¯re no longer young, you should learn to take better care of yourself."

    "Hmm."

    "..." The Old Master sighed again before redirecting his gaze toward Su Qingnuan, "Qingnuan..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart clenched, and she quicklyposed herself, "Grandpa, what¡¯s wrong?"

    The Old Master nced at Fu Yihan before smiling and asking, "Nothing problematic, right?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded, "No, everything is fine."

    At that, the Old Master let out a relieved breath.

    But the breath hadn¡¯t fully settled when Su Qingnuan felt a chill down her spine and instinctively turned to look.

    She froze upon meeting that cold gaze.

    She didn¡¯t know when it happened, but Fu Yihan was staring at her intensely.

    Was this...?

    "Cough... Cough..." Su Qingnuan suddenly coughed lightly, awkwardly shifting her gaze away.

    "Are you catching a cold too?" The Old Master asked in confusion.

    "No!" Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and straightened her posture, "Just choked on something."

    The Old Master nced at her disapprovingly, "You¡¯re grown now; be more careful."

    "Yes, yes."

    Watching the Old Master reprimand her and then return to his room, Su Qingnuan turned her back.

    "Come over here."

    A stern yetmanding voice.

    So, it begins?

    With a faintly bitter smile, Su Qingnuan reluctantly sat closer.

    Sitting before the stern-faced King Yan, Su Qingnuan squirmed ufortably.

    But since King Yan didn¡¯t speak, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t know what to say either, so she only hung her head in silent unease.

    "What did Grandpa ask you just now?"

    The sudden question caught Su Qingnuan off guard. She looked up at Fu Yihan.

    Thetter raised his brow and gazed at her calmly, his eyes brimming with cold determination, like a storm roaring closer.

    "N-nothing much." Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head, avoiding his eyes.

    "Nothing much?" Fu Yihan sneered, "Don¡¯t forget your ce. When did you start siding with Grandpa?"

    "...I didn¡¯t."

    Su Qingnuan felt a surge of grievance.

    Clearly, she was the one caught in the middle of the two of them. Why was she the one being med?

    Her lips turned downward as her eyelids drooped, concealing the emotions flickering in her gaze.

    Yet little did she know, the despondent aura exuding from her had already exposed herpletely.

    "Take this."

    With a "thud," a box of tissues appeared in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    Startled, she looked up to find the man across from her staring impassively: "I only asked you two questions, not interrogating you."

    "..."

    Cradling the box of tissues, Su Qingnuan murmured softly, "Grandpa is just concerned about you and asked about your health. I didn¡¯t say anything else I shouldn¡¯t have. You can rest assured."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan averted his gaze, "Ah Qi, take me upstairs."

    "Understood."

    The sound of the wheelchair sliding against the floor created a faint, sharp noise.

    The silver wheelchair passed before her eyes, and Su Qingnuan slowly lifted her gaze, watching his disappearing figure.

    What¡¯s this supposed to be...

    He wasn¡¯t actually that harsh...

    As her gaze returned to the tissue box in her hands, Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curled upwards slightly.

    ...

    On the first day of the lunar month, when the doorbell rang, Su Qingnuan had no idea just how serious things would be.

    She lounged in her room reading, thinking she could enjoy afortable and quiet day today. But unexpectedly, someone came knocking on her door.

    Standing outside was the ever-serious Ah Qi.

    "Ah Qi, is something the matter?" Su Qingnuan greeted him with afortable smile.

    Ah Qi nced at her and said gravely, "Madam, guests are downstairs, and the Old Master has asked you toe down."

    Guests?

    She suddenly recalled what Fu Yihan had mentioned yesterday¡ªthere would be guests today.

    "Alright!" Su Qingnuan smiled, tugging at her cor, "Wait for me; I¡¯ll change ande down."

    After finding what she considered her best outfit from the wardrobe, Su Qingnuan made her way downstairs, satisfied.

    Even from the staircase, she could hear the livelyughter from the grand living room below.

    The spacious living room had only two people seated within.

    Not spotting Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan softly asked the person beside her, "Where¡¯s the Eldest Young Master?"

    Ah Qi nced towards the study.

    Su Qingnuan grasped the hint.

    Guests had arrived, yet he, as the host, didn¡¯te out?

    How could this make any sense?

    As she fretted over Fu Yihan¡¯s absence, she made her way downstairs, and the people seated in the living room naturally caught sight of her.

    "Yuerou! Come, this way." Fu Old Master called out with a smile.

    Regaining herposure, she met their eyes¡ªone kind, one curious.

    Taking a deep breath, she approached with a graceful stride and a smile.

    "Grandpa." Su Yuerou smiled gently and nced at the unfamiliar person, "Ah Qi mentioned guests had arrived."

    "Indeed! Hahaha!" Fu Old Master pointed to the woman opposite him, his smile wide, "This is Jiang Xiaoyuan, the youngest daughter of the Jiang family."

    Jiang Xiaoyuan...

    Could this be the Jiang family¡¯s youngdy Gong Qi mentioned yesterday?

    "Hello." Jiang Xiaoyuan stood up and extended her hand, gazing at her with calm confidence.

    "...Hello."

    The two women shook hands.

    Her hand was soft and delicate, making Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand seem coarse inparison.

    As their hands parted, Su Qingnuan hastily withdrew hers.

    "Have a seat." Fu Old Master pointed to a nearby spot, then nced at Ah Qi, "Where¡¯s the Eldest Young Master? Why hasn¡¯t hee down yet?"

    "Old Master, Eldest Young Master said he¡¯s busy with work and asked Madam to greet the guests in his ce."

    "Nonsense!" Fu Old Master frowned, "He¡¯s him, and Yuerou is Yuerou. Is he just beingzy and avoidinging downstairs?"

 Chapter 42: Provocation

    <h4>Chapter 42: Chapter 42: Provocation</h4><h4></h4>

    A-Qi remained silent.

    Seeing the elder¡¯s expression grow darker by the second, Jiang Xiaoyuan smiled and spoke up: "Grandfather! I know how Yihan is¡ªthis is just how he is. I¡¯m used to it, it¡¯s no big deal."

    "Grandfather." Su Qingnuan also sat down and said softly, "Yihan really is busy with work. You know that he wasn¡¯t feeling well yesterday and didn¡¯t go to the office..."

    Under the persuasion of the two, the Old Master¡¯s ashen face gradually softened.

    "Daughters are still the best!" The Old Master sighed. "But s, our Fu family has had generations of sons, yet not a single daughter."

    "Grandfather!" Jiang Xiaoyuan pouted and looked at him in mock reproach. "So what you¡¯re saying is, all these years of me calling you ¡¯Grandfather¡¯ have been for nothing?"

    "Oh dear!" The Old Master¡¯s smile returned. "Of course I¡¯ve always treated you like my own granddaughter. But if your actual grandfather heard that, he might throw a childish tantrum at me."

    "That¡¯s no problem. Let him fuss if he wants. After all, having another grandfather to dote on me isn¡¯t a bad thing at all."

    With that, Jiang Xiaoyuan yfully winked, looking quite cheeky.

    "Good, good!" The Old Master nodded with augh. "This granddaughter is wonderful. Grandfather likes it!"

    The two chatted merrily. It was obvious the Old Master genuinely liked this girl named Jiang Xiaoyuan.

    As a perfect supporting character, Su Qingnuan yed her role impably.

    Though seated on the sofa, she was essentially an invisible presence.

    She had no intention of interjecting, nor even the slightest desire to speak.

    If not for their asional acknowledgment of someone else being in the room, Su Qingnuan could have sat quietly until their conversation ended.

    "It¡¯s time for the afternoon rest." The Old Master suddenly rose to his feet. "Xiaoyuan, why don¡¯t you and Yue Rou chat for a bit? I¡¯ll go take a nap."

    "Alright." Jiang Xiaoyuan stood up as well, holding onto the Old Master¡¯s arm. "Grandfather, let me help you over."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan naturally stood and followed behind the two.

    After escorting the Old Master to his room, only the two of them were left facing each other.

    "Uh..." Su Qingnuan chuckled awkwardly. "Do you want to rest for a while too?"

    Jiang Xiaoyuan nced at her, the smile vanishing from her lips as she looked toward A-Qi.

    "Where is Fu Yihan?"

    "..."

    Seeing A-Qi remain silent, Jiang Xiaoyuan raised an eyebrow and sneered: "Do you think that if you don¡¯t talk, I won¡¯t be able to find him?"

    With that, she turned and headed toward the stairs.

    "Miss Jiang!" A-Qi stepped in front of her, frowning slightly. "This is the Fu family."

    "So what?"

    Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s demeanor was assertive and arrogant.

    "..."

    Unable to respond, A-Qi cast a pleading look at Su Qingnuan.

    Thetter froze for a moment, returning a confused gaze.

    Noticing A-Qi¡¯s nce, Jiang Xiaoyuan turned to look at Su Qingnuan as well.

    "Are you the one stopping me from seeing him?" Jiang Xiaoyuan asked.

    "Huh? I didn¡¯t..."

    Before she could finish, A-Qi interrupted her.

    "Yes, the Eldest Young Madam said so. The Eldest Young Master isn¡¯t feeling well and can¡¯t see anyone."

    "..." When had she ever said that?

    Seeing the sincerity in A-Qi¡¯s eyes, Su Qingnuan forced herself not to contradict him.

    "So you¡¯re stopping me?" The disdain in Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s eyes was like a sharp de, nearly piercing Su Qingnuan¡¯s chest.

    She clenched her teeth and nodded, "Yes, I¡¯m stopping you."

    "Haha!" Jiang Xiaoyuan let out a derisiveugh, giving her a contemptuous look. "Since when does the newly arrived Eldest Young Madam have such authority? Saying I can¡¯t see him means I can¡¯t see him?"

    "Well..." Su Qingnuan looked toward A-Qi in distress.

    "The Eldest Young Master said that the Eldest Young Madam¡¯s word is his word. Everything is to follow her instructions!"

    "Exactly!" Su Qingnuan echoed. "Everything follows my instructions."

    "I don¡¯t believe it!" Jiang Xiaoyuan frowned, pushing past A-Qi. "I¡¯m going to see him right now. If I don¡¯t, I might just flip your entire Fu family upside down!"

    Such bold words!

    "Miss Jiang." A-Qi¡¯s expression darkened, his tone displeased. "This is the Fu family, not the Jiang family."

    "So what?" Jiang Xiaoyuan sneered. "If I, Jiang Xiaoyuan, want to see someone, no one tells me I can¡¯t."

    With that, Jiang Xiaoyuan headed upstairs.

    A-Qi did his utmost to block her path. But after all, she was the youngdy of the Jiang family. He couldn¡¯t touch her directly, nor could he risk letting anything happen to her. So for each step she took forward, he had no choice but to retreat a step. In this way, the two of them continued ascending the stairs.

    Frowning slightly, A-Qi looked to Su Qingnuan for help.

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned before jogging to catch up.

    "Miss Jiang." Su Qingnuan grabbed Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s arm and smiled. "Our family has recently purchased some new tea. I heard the Jiang family is renowned in the art of tea. Why don¡¯t you take a look for us?"

    She gripped Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s arm firmly, forcing thetter to turn back and look at her.

    "Let go," Jiang Xiaoyuan said impatiently.

    "Miss Jiang, let¡¯s talk this through." Su Qingnuan released her grip with a pleasant smile and tried to reason with her. "Yihan is busy. Let¡¯s not disturb him."

    "Busy?" Jiang Xiaoyuan sneered. "He doesn¡¯t usually seem busy. But the moment I show up, he¡¯s suddenly swamped?"

    "Miss Jiang," A-Qi said with visible displeasure. "You should know the Eldest Young Master¡¯s attitude toward you. Please conduct yourself with dignity."

    "Dignity?" Jiang Xiaoyuan smirked mockingly. "Sorry, I really don¡¯t know how to spell that word. You just swindled ten shops out of me, and now you¡¯re turning your back on me? Is that it?"

    "Miss Jiang, the Eldest Young Master isn¡¯t..."

    "Then what do you want?"

    The cold voice interrupted their conversation.

    Looking up, they saw Fu Yihan seated at the top of the stairs, gazing down at them from above.

    "Eldest Young Master!" A-Qi hurriedly ran up and stood by Fu Yihan¡¯s side.

    As for Jiang Xiaoyuan, upon seeing Fu Yihan, she suddenly lost her words.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, his gaze still cold. "Weren¡¯t you determined to see me? Now that you¡¯ve seen me, what do you want to say?"

    "..." Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s brow furrowed slightly. "You have nothing to say to me?"

    "No."

    The heartless answer came without a shred of hesitation.

    Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s eyes red with anger as she pointed at Su Qingnuan. "This is the person your family chose? I went to so much effort to get close to you, never once disdaining you, all because I wanted to marry you! And now your Fu family chooses someone like her?"

    Feeling unjustly dragged into the fray, Su Qingnuan frowned at the finger nearly poking her.

    "What makes me, Jiang Xiaoyuan, unworthy? What does your Fu family have against our Jiang family? Why not choose me?" Jiang Xiaoyuan¡¯s tone grew increasingly suppressed.

    "No reason." Fu Yihan looked at her calmly and said matter-of-factly, "This was the Old Master¡¯s decision. You can take it up with him."

    "..."

    A moment of silence. Jiang Xiaoyuan grit her teeth and red at him, her eyes reddened and burning with madness.

    In contrast, Fu Yihan remainedposed, his gaze like a calm sea after a storm, devoid of any emotion as he watched her quietly.

    After a long pause, Jiang Xiaoyuan suddenlyughed.

    "Are you sure you want to do this to me?" she asked.

    "Yes," he replied.

    His tone allowed no room for argument, his answer unwavering.

    "Haha! Very well!" Jiang Xiaoyuan pointed at Fu Yihan, her eyes zing with fury. "Fu Yihan, you will regret this!"

 Chapter 43 Places You Shouldnéˆ¥æª› Go

    <h4>Chapter 43: Chapter 43 ces You Shouldn¡¯t Go</h4><h4></h4>

    After speaking, Jiang Xiaoyuan turned and walked downstairs.

    As she passed Su Qingnuan, she suddenly stopped.

    Her bloodshot eyes red cruelly at her: "You just wait!"

    "..."

    What did she do to deserve this?

    Watching Jiang Xiaoyuan leave in a fit of anger, Su Qingnuan felt a bit bewildered.

    "Come upstairs," Fu Yihan suddenly said.

    Holding onto the staircase as she ascended, Su Qingnuan curiously asked, "Mr. Fu, has she officially dered herself your enemy now?"

    "It doesn¡¯t matter."

    The nonchnt tone made it sound like he was discussing what to have for lunch.

    From this, Su Qingnuan realized that Fu Yihan genuinely didn¡¯t care about this girl.

    The way she loudly demanded answers just now¡ªSu Qingnuan had once resembled that herself. If it weren¡¯t for her arrogance, Su Qingnuan might have felt a bit more empathetic.

    "To the study," Fu Yihan said.

    Eagerly, Su Qingnuan reached out and gently pushed Fu Yihan toward the study.

    Once the two entered the study, Aqi sensibly stayed outside.

    "Help me organize those books," Fu Yihan pointed to the pile of books stacked in the corner, frowning. "All of these are what you¡¯ll need to read in the future."

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze fell on the disorganized pile of books. Although none of them seemed particrly thick, the sheer volume formed a small mountain. "So many?"

    "There¡¯s even more," Fu Yihan said, his teasing smile carrying a hint of amusement.

    "...I¡¯ll get to it right away!"

    Sitting in the corner, she patiently sorted and organized the books by category.

    Meanwhile, the other person in the room sat at the desk typing away at the keyboard.

    In the quiet study, the sound of books being moved and the cking of the keyboard seemed surprisingly harmonious.

    As dusk descended, Su Qingnuan raised her head, yellow rays of the sunset bathed her fingers, radiating warmth.

    Outside, in the distant mountains, a faint glimmer of light was fading.

    As the light gradually disappeared with time, Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze with a faint smile¡ªand froze.

    At some point, the sound of the keyboard had stopped.

    The stern-faced man who had been focused on his work nowy slumped over the desk.

    The quiet atmosphere emboldened Su Qingnuan. She stood up cautiously and tiptoed toward the desk.

    His face was turned to the side, revealing half of Fu Yihan¡¯s features.

    That perfect profile¡ªhis prominent nose, slightly parted lips. The tale of Sleeping Beauty might be old, but one couldn¡¯t help wondering, was there perhaps a story about a Sleeping Prince?

    As humans, why is it that some are born inherently better-looking than others?

    Chuckling softly at her peculiar thoughts, Su Qingnuan retrieved a nket from the cab and carefully draped it over Fu Yihan, then quietly left the study.

    Little did she know, the moment the door closed, those tightly shut eyes suddenly snapped open.

    Sitting upright, the man stared thoughtfully in the direction of the door, lost in contemtion.

    ...

    "Young Madam," Aqi asked curiously, ncing behind her.

    "He fell asleep," Su Qingnuan replied softly. "I put a nket over him before leaving. Don¡¯t disturb him for now¡ªwe¡¯ll eat dinner a littleter."

    "Understood."

    "I¡¯ll head downstairs to help first. You can go in afterwards."

    "Alright."

    Descending the stairs quietly, Su Qingnuan immediately spotted Grandpa Fu seated on the sofa across from Yun Meifeng.

    "Grandpa, you can¡¯t be so unfair! Yihan is your grandson! Yixing is also your grandson!"

    Pausing halfway down the staircase, Su Qingnuan sat quietly, listening.

    "What nonsense is this? They¡¯re both my grandsons, so how could I y favorites?" Grandpa¡¯s tone carried a hint of impatience.

    "Since you insist you aren¡¯t biased, why not assign Yixing a meaningful position? He¡¯s been working at thepany for years now and is still just a lowly manager. Meanwhile, look at Yihan! He¡¯s been president before and still holds that title now! What will people say if they hear this?"

    "...If you want him promoted, he needs to aplish something first. Only then can he earn a promotion!"

    "..."

    After a brief silence, Yun Meifeng raised her voice: "Then tell me, what counts as an aplishment? The major client he brought in for the Fu family before wasn¡¯t a ster achievement, wasn¡¯t it hugely profitable for us?"

    "Don¡¯t bring up that major client anymore! Who knows where they¡¯ve disappeared to now? Profitable? If the staff hadn¡¯t meticulously examined the ounts, the Fu family would¡¯ve been made fools of by their deception!"

    "...What happened?"

    "Go ask Yixing yourself!"

    With that, the sound of the cane tapping on the floor echoed loudly.

    Only after the downstairs area quieted again did Su Qingnuan rise and descend further.

    The living room was now empty, but Su Qingnuan nced toward Grandpa¡¯s bedroom, her brows furrowing.

    So, has Fu Yihan truly taken charge of the Fu family?

    Yet, looking at his casual demeanor all day, it doesn¡¯t seem like it.....

    But does it really matter who the head is? Sooner orter, she¡¯ll leave this ce anyway.

    With this thought in mind, Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze and turned toward the kitchen.

    In truth, the kitchen didn¡¯t require her assistance, but Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t know what else to do. The kitchen staff seemed more approachable, so she enjoyeding here to lend a hand.

    "Young Madam is here again?" The chef smiled as he presented freshly-cooked braised pork. "Perfect timing¡ªplease have a taste. If you like it, I¡¯ll make more for you."

    Excited, she walked over and took a small bite.

    The rich aroma of the meat filled the air.

    She couldn¡¯t help but give a thumbs up: "Delicious!"

    "Then I¡¯ll make sure to serve extra for youter!" The chef beamed warmly.

    "Great! Thank you, Uncle!"

    "No need to thank me, Young Madam. It¡¯s my job after all."

    Settling into a familiar spot, Su Qingnuan smiled gently as she picked up some leafy vegetables: "Anything unwashed left for me today?"

    "All washed already. These are specially set aside for you¡ªonce you¡¯re done, dinner will be ready."

    Specially reserved?

    Feeling a little embarrassed, Su Qingnuan put them down and looked gratefully at the chef. "Uncle, am I troubling you all?"

    "Oh my, of course not!" The chef¡¯s smile grew even wider. "Having Young Madam here to chat with us is a joy. We¡¯re delighted, and you don¡¯t need to lift a finger in the first ce!"

    "Does that mean I can stille here in the future?" Su Qingnuan quietly asked.

    "Absolutely!" The chef set down his utensils and apuded with enthusiasm. "We warmly wee you!"

    Amid the apuse, Su Qingnuan bashfully lowered her head and focused on sorting the vegetables.

    Preparing vegetables was a rxing activity for Su Qingnuan. She didn¡¯t have to worry about other issues, only needing to concentrate on the leaves in her hands.

    After finishing, the aroma of food permeated the kitchen.

    "I¡¯m done." Handing the vegetables to the chef, Su Qingnuan waved cheerfully: "Alright, I¡¯ll head out now!"

    "Alright, Young Madam!"

    Leaving the kitchen, Su Qingnuan was in high spirits, her smile unwavering.

    But out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a cold stare. Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression froze, her smile slowly fading away.

    "Where did you go?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "...The kitchen."

    "Don¡¯t go there again."

    "....."

 Chapter 44 No Reason

    <h4>Chapter 44: Chapter 44 No Reason</h4><h4></h4>

    "Why?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Cold eyes fell on her, and Fu Yihan sneered, "You¡¯re the young mistress now. What kind of young mistress runs around the kitchen every day?"

    "..."

    But this was her only joy.....

    Raging inside, her face remained calm.

    "I understand," Su Qingnuan conceded. "I won¡¯t do it again."

    He said nothing, turned his back, leaving her with a cold silhouette.

    Soon, the dining table was full.

    As the chopsticks lightly tapped the tableware, Su Qingnuan knew all that was expected was for her to eat quietly.

    "Grandpa," Fu Yixing furrowed his brows, looking aggrievedly at the old master, "Your grandson was bullied outside. You can¡¯t ignore it, can you?"

    "Bullied?" The old master chuckled, "With your personality, it¡¯s a marvel you¡¯re not the one bullying others. Who dares bully you?"

    "Of course someone dares!" Fu Yixing nced faintly at Fu Yihan across the table. "Just a few days ago, the Wu family¡¯s young master was kidnapped and vanishedpletely, leaving his family frantic. When he was finally found, he¡¯d been beaten so badly he ended up in the hospital."

    "Oh?" The old master, surprised, put down his chopsticks and looked at Fu Yixing seriously. "Did you find out who did it?"

    "No!" Fu Yixing gritted his teeth. "We couldn¡¯t trace who was behind that incident, but today someone came to thepany and smashed everything on my desk! After investigating, I found out that it was people from the Wu family¡¯s young master."

    "What does that mean?" The old master frowned. "Were you the one who kidnapped him?"

    "How could I be?" Fu Yixingughed. "Even if you lent me the courage, I wouldn¡¯t dare kidnap the Wu family¡¯s young master!"

    He nced at Fu Yihan, a sly smile creeping on his face, "But the Wu familying after me clearly implies I¡¯m somehow connected to the one who kidnapped him!"

    "..."

    The old master looked at Fu Yihan, hesitating to speak.

    "Don¡¯t look at me." Under their gaze, Fu Yihan slowly set down his chopsticks, unaffected. "I arranged it."

    "What did the Wu family¡¯s young master do to provoke you?" The old master frowned, cautioncing his voice, "Don¡¯t forget we still have business with the Wu family. Don¡¯t stir up any unnecessary trouble!"

    "It¡¯s nothing to worry about." Fu Yihan turned away, his cold eyes devoid of emotion. "I will handle this myself."

    With that, he looked toward Su Qingnuan.

    Focused on eating, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt a suffocating pressure and looked back.

    "Take me upstairs," Fu Yihan said.

    "....."

    Hastily putting down her chopsticks, Su Qingnuan rose and pushed Fu Yihan toward the exit.

    "Yihan!" The old master stood up, speaking helplessly, "You¡¯ve barely eaten anything. We were only discussing the situation, not ming you!"

    His expression remained cold, and he said nothing.

    In the elevator, Su Qingnuan noticed his sullen expression and tentatively said, "Actually, Grandpa is just worried about you..."

    A sharp, de-like gaze suddenly turned on her, and she froze.

    "Don¡¯t meddle in things that don¡¯t concern you."

    Once again, the same cold and ruthless demeanor.

    "...Yes."

    After escorting him to his room, Su Qingnuan turned to leave.

    "Where are you going?"

    She paused mid-step and turned around, "To eat. I haven¡¯t finished my meal yet."

    "..." Fu Yihan stared at her, his brows slightly furrowed.

    Under the weight of his intense gaze, Su Qingnuan slowly retreated, sitting obediently on the sofa with her head lowered.

    For a long moment, something suddenly flew toward her andnded on herp.

    "This is..."

    Picking up the phone, Su Qingnuan cast a puzzled nce at Fu Yihan.

    "Order takeout."

    "..."

    "No sweets. Notro. No....."

    The list of preferences was unexpectedly long....

    "Um....." Su Qingnuan looked up from the phone, awkwardly smiling, "The password....."

    "Password?" Fu Yihan turned toward Ah Qi.

    "123456."

    "..."

    Is this really his phone?

    Following Fu Yihan¡¯s instructions, Su Qingnuan ordered a few dishes and handed the phone back to him.

    He took the phone and casually stuffed it into his pocket, radiating indifference.

    Not someone who enjoys using phones, it was likely Ah Qi who downloaded all those food delivery apps for him.

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan stared longingly at the fortune cat figurine on the desk.

    As time ticked by, the fortune cat¡¯s paw had waved over thirty times.

    The awkward tension spread endlessly.

    She remained silent, the man across from her said nothing, and the person standing nearby didn¡¯t speak either.

    In this way, the enormous room was left in utter silence.

    "Ah Qi, go to the study and fetch the young mistress¡¯s books," Fu Yihan suddenly said.

    "Understood."

    Watching Ah Qi¡¯s departing figure, Su Qingnuan pursed her lips in frustration.

    "Got something to say?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "N-no..... nothing!" Su Qingnuan quickly looked away, lowering her head.

    Seeing her pitiful demeanor, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t resist a coldugh, "If you¡¯ve got something to say, say it. Being hesitant and squeamish isn¡¯t wee here."

    "..." Su Qingnuan brushed aside a loose strand of hair, tucking it behind her ear. "I really don¡¯t have anything to say, it¡¯s just..... just that the books seem a bit much."

    "Heh!"

    Why the sneer?

    She cautiously raised her eyes, only to meet his cold gaze¡ªthough now, there was a trace of ridicule hidden within.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª¡ª"

    The sound of knocking on the door broke the silence. Su Qingnuan immediately stood, but the sight arrested her in ce.

    "Young mistress, please move aside," Ah Qi said, his eyebrows furrowed in difort.

    "...Are all these to be read?" Su Qingnuan stared in shock at the stack of books, nearly half her height.

    "Yes." Fu Yihan fiddled with his watch, and the corner of his lips barely lifted. "I added some etiquette books for you as well. As the young mistress of the Fu family, you should familiarize yourself with our customs and protocols."

    "...Our Su family is also considered a prominent household." Su Qingnuan carefully responded.

    "Not enough."

    "..."

    With a loud "thud," the stack of books hit the floor, dragging Su Qingnuan¡¯s mood down with it.

    ...

    When the takeout arrived, Su Qingnuan was engrossed in the books, with Fu Yihan supervising nearby.

    The enticing aroma wafted in, causing Su Qingnuan to swallow unconsciously as her gaze drifted toward the table.

    Following her line of sight, Fu Yihan coughed lightly.

    She straightened immediately and stared seriously at the textbook.

    "Enough." Fu Yihan shot her a cold nce. "Go eat."

    As her body prepared to leap up, it hesitated. Slowly, she rose and gracefully walked to the sofa to sit down.

    Her movements, in the eyes of the man across from her, were met with a cold nce, no different from any other.

    Regarding etiquette, the Su family had raised its children with impable manners, so Su Qingnuan¡¯s posture was exemry. Yet, her peculiar quirks were intolerable to others.

    "No need for that in front of me."

    "Hmm?" Su Qingnuan looked at Fu Yihan in confusion.

    He paused momentarily, then said nothing more.

    The words, fleeting as a breeze, drifted away.

 Chapter 45: Layout

    <h4>Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Layout</h4><h4></h4>

    "What are you standing there for?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice was still as icy as ever, devoid of any warmth.

    Su Qingnuan forced an awkward smile and walked forward.

    "They¡¯ve already chosen the dress," Su Qingnuan said softly.

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan retracted his gaze and turned to A Qi across from him, saying, "Tell Qin Chuan to proceed as we originally nned."

    "Alright."

    A Qi jogged off.

    Watching A Qi¡¯s retreating figure, Su Qingnuan asked hesitantly, "Does A Qi also oversee external matters?"

    "What external matters?"

    Su Qingnuan gasped, caught off guard, and turned back to meet his gaze.

    "Answer me!" Fu Yihan frowned tightly. "What are you staring at me for, like an idiot?"

    Snapping out of her daze in a panic, Su Qingnuan quickly replied, "Oh, nothing, I was just talking to myself..."

    "Talking to yourself?" Fu Yihan frowned. "That¡¯s not a good habit. Change it."

    "...Okay."

    ...

    The designer was incredibly fast, delivering the dress the very next day.

    Before Su Qingnuan had a chance to try it on, Fu Yihan picked one out and threw it directly into her arms.

    "Put it on."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan caught the dress hastily, confusion written all over her face.

    "There¡¯s a gathering this afternoon."

    "Another gathering?"

    A sharp nce swept over her.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head and muttered to herself, "How am I supposed to wear this dress?"

    Studying the dress as she walked, she headed inside.

    Once in the bathroom, Su Qingnuan quickly closed the door.

    She hurriedly changed into the dress and looked at her pale face in the mirror. Su Qingnuan patted her cheeks lightly and whispered to herself, "Come on, perk up!"

    Opening the bathroom door, Su Qingnuan walked out.

    Fu Yihan was reading the newspaper, but upon hearing the sound, he set it aside and looked over.

    When the soft yellow of the dress caught his eye, the coldness in his expression cracked for a brief moment.

    The dress¡¯s spaghetti strap design exposed her neck and delicate shoulders.

    The flowing skirt entuated her gracefulness, though her slightly paleplexion detracted from it.

    Retracting his gaze calmly, Fu Yihan remarked leisurely, "Yourplexion doesn¡¯t look good."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan smacked her cheeks again and asked hopefully, "What about now?"

    "Do you think your hand works as blush?" Fu Yihan said sharply. "Put on some makeup."

    "..." Su Qingnuan lowered her head, her fingers fidgeting awkwardly, her voice growing timid. "I don¡¯t know how to do makeup..."

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and looked up again.

    "I really don¡¯t know..."

    She stood there, the pale face marked by her awkward smile.

    "..." Fu Yihan walked toward the door.

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan hurriedly followed, gripping the handles of his wheelchair. "Mr. Fu, aren¡¯t we skipping the makeup?"

    "Outside."

    "...Okay."

    The house was empty as the two headed straight out.

    Passing by the dining room, Su Qingnuan curiously nced inside¡ªit was still vacant.

    "Why is the house empty today?"

    "I already told you there¡¯s a gathering. Everyone¡¯s gone."

    So it was a family gathering?

    She had originally thought it was some business-rted event.

    If it¡¯s just a family gathering, why dress so formally?

    Not only formal¡ªshe had assumed Fu Yihan had been joking when he mentioned getting makeup done outside; she hadn¡¯t expected him to actually go through with it.

    Watching herself in the mirror as herplexion slowly began to look more lively, Su Qingnuan realized just how important this family gathering was.

    The car pulled up in front of the hotel.

    Su Qingnuan carefully pushed Fu Yihan as they moved inside.

    "Mr. Fu, wee!"

    A loud, enthusiastic voice suddenly startled Su Qingnuan, causing her to look over in shock.

    A man rushed over with a fawning expression.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly, eyeing the man. "What are you doing here?"

    "Of course, I¡¯m here to wee you!" The man straightened up and, moving behind Fu Yihan, casually pushed Su Qingnuan aside.

    Gripping the wheelchair¡¯s handles tightly, he nced at Su Qingnuan with clear disdain. "Who are you?"

    "I¡¯m..." Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan and, seeing him remain silent, hesitated before continuing, "Yihan¡¯s wife."

    "Wife?" The man¡¯s frown deepened as he scrutinized Su Qingnuan. "You¡¯re from the Su family? Aside from looks, you don¡¯t seem to have any other redeeming qualities."

    "...That¡¯s not entirely fair..."

    Su Qingnuan murmured softly.

    "Listen to that tone! Completelycking confidence!" The man leaned on the wheelchair, staring at her with disapproval. "I still don¡¯t get why Grandpa chose you to be his wife."

    Su Qingnuan stared at him nkly, momentarily at a loss for words.

    "Fu Jia."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s authoritative tone sounded.

    Fu Jia pouted. "What? Am I wrong?"

    "She¡¯s your sister-inw. Remember to treat her with respect."

    "Sister-inw? I don¡¯t acknowledge her as a sister-inw!"

    "...It¡¯s fine." Su Qingnuan said softly. "It¡¯s just that we¡¯re not familiar yet. Once we get to know each other better, it¡¯ll be fine."

    "Spare me your sweet talk. Even if I get to know you, I won¡¯t like you."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression turned awkward. Bowing her head, she appeared unsure of what to do.

    Watching her, an inexplicable anger rose within Fu Yihan.

    His sharp gaze turned to Fu Jia.

    "Call her ¡¯Sister-inw,¡¯" he said quietly.

    Fu Jia remained silent, ring at him in dissatisfaction.

    "Fu Jia!"

    His expression grew increasingly grim.

    Seeing the situation, Fu Jia stomped his foot in frustration and looked away.

    "Sister-inw!"

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "Hmm."

    Upon getting her response, Fu Jia shot her a re before hastily running off.

    Watching this, Su Qingnuan looked helplessly at Fu Yihan.

    "I don¡¯t think I said anything..." she said pitifully.

    Fu Yihan nced at her briefly and said, in all seriousness, "There¡¯s no need to say anything else. Just remember, in this household, the only person you need to respect is me. You don¡¯t need to concern yourself with anyone else."

    Such arrogance!

    "...Alright."

    Their supposed greeter had left abruptly, leaving no trace.

    With no other choice, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan forward toward their destination.

    They ascended directly to the top floor.

    As the elevator doors opened, a rush of floral scent enveloped them.

    Before them, colors bloomed in dazzling disy, leaving Su Qingnuan momentarily overwhelmed.

    "Why so many flowers..." Su Qingnuan whispered.

    Fu Yihan frowned, turning to look at her.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shut her mouth.

    A seemingly endless path of flowersy ahead, and Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan along the trail.

    Eventually, the sounds of chatter reached them.

    "Why isn¡¯t Yihan here yet?"

    "Exactly! We came specifically to meet the new young madam today. Why hasn¡¯t she been brought over yet?"

    "They said they¡¯reing from the house, so it shouldn¡¯t be much longer."

    Gripping the wheelchair handles tightly, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and stepped through the private room¡¯s doors with Fu Yihan.

    "Hey, hey, hey! He¡¯s here!"

    A flurry of hurried footsteps followed, as all eyes turned toward the doorway.

    The opulence of the scene momentarily stunned Su Qingnuan, but she quickly regained herposure.

 Chapter 46 Drinking Wine

    <h4>Chapter 46: Chapter 46 Drinking Wine</h4><h4></h4>

    Everyone was watching them.

    Standing or seated, almost no one in the private room looked away from the two of them.

    Su Qingnuan tightened her grip on the handle, her lips curving slightly as she maintained a polite smile. She pushed Fu Yihan and walked over to Fu Jia¡¯s side in the distance.

    "You¡¯re here." Fu Jia smiled faintly at them. "These are all family rtives, Yue Rou, there¡¯s no need to be so reserved."

    Looking around, there were at least thirty people. So many rtives?

    A trace of doubt flickered in her eyes, but Su Qingnuan smiled and nodded. "Yes, I understand."

    "Mm. Yihan, take Yue Rou over to meet your younger siblings and cousins."

    Fu Yihan nced at him but did not move.

    Fu Jia¡¯s eyebrows raised slightly, his expression tightening.

    "Yihan, isn¡¯t Qin over there? Aren¡¯t you going to her?" Fu Jia added.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression finally shifted; he lifted his eyes indifferently and said, "Going there."

    Su Qingnuan followed his gaze and decisively pushed him in that direction.

    As they passed, people greeted Fu Yihan, but he only nodded faintly, which seemed to count as a greeting. He did not appear warm.

    Even so, some people still came over.

    As they drew closer, Su Qingnuan noticed that earlier Fu Jia was now secretly chatting with a girl in a corner.

    "Fu Jia." Fu Yihan called out.

    Fu Jia turned his head and, upon seeing Fu Yihan, hurriedly straightened up.

    "Cousin."

    Fu Yihan did not reply, his gazending on the girl, his eyebrows furrowing slightly. "What were you saying to Qin again?"

    "N-nothing..." Fu Jia scratched his head and looked away. "Didn¡¯t say anything."

    Qin cast him a nce and let out a cold snort.

    "Qin." Fu Yihan frowned. "Come here."

    Qin¡¯s expression mirrored Fu Yihan¡¯s almost exactly.

    She walked closer and stood beside Fu Yihan. Su Qingnuan observed that the two of them strikingly resembled each other.

    "This is your sister-inw." Fu Yihan gestured toward Su Qingnuan.

    Qin raised an eyebrow, her gaze scanning up and down Su Qingnuan¡¯s figure.

    That kind of look was not unfamiliar. Su Qingnuan straightened up, her lips maintaining the same gentle smile.

    "Ha! Fake!"

    "..."

    Qin turned away disdainfully. "Someone like her isn¡¯t even as good as Xiaoyuan."

    Fu Jia tugged Qin¡¯s sleeve.

    She impatiently shook him off, frowning. "What are you doing? Can¡¯t you see I¡¯m talking?"

    "....." Fu Jia pointed at Fu Yihan with a face full of fear.

    Qin froze slightly, then slowly turned back.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s icy gaze, sharp as piercing winter winds, chilled Qin until she didn¡¯t know how to respond.

    "Qin, have you forgotten what I told you?"

    His voice was cold, tinged with an oppressive authority.

    Qin lowered her head and muttered quietly. "I remember...."

    Looking down at the top of her head, Fu Yihan sneered faintly. "Qin, the affection the old master shows you is not something to be used recklessly against me."

    Uneasy, Qin walked over nervously, grabbed Fu Yihan¡¯s sleeve, and whispered, "Cousin... I realize my mistake now. In the future, I won¡¯t speak carelessly anymore."

    After a brief nce at her, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze. "Simply admitting your mistake isn¡¯t enough. Prove it through your actions."

    Fu Yihan maneuvered his wheelchair to turn away, facing his back to Qin. "If this happens again, you might as well stoping to the Fu family gatherings."

    "Cousin!" Qin stomped her foot in frustration.

    But Fu Yihan showed no leniency and left resolutely.

    Su Qingnuan hurried to follow him, apanying Fu Yihan back to Fu Jia¡¯s side.

    Seeing them return so soon, Fu Jia chuckled. "Did you greet your aunt?"

    "Mm."

    He responded quickly¡ªso quickly that Su Qingnuan had no chance to speak before being overshadowed.

    Stealing a nce at Fu Yihan¡¯s cold profile, Su Qingnuan dared not utter a word further.

    The two stood quietly like mere decorations beside Fu Jia, resembling two lifelike sculptures.

    People who greeted them were mostly distant rtives.

    Earlier, Fu Jia had publicly announced Su Qingnuan¡¯s identity. This gathering was aimed at introducing Su Qingnuan to the inner circle of the Fu family.

    Fu Jia¡¯s gesture deeply touched Su Qingnuan.

    When the meal was served, Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan held their wine sses and began to toast each table, moving forward in turn.

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t good at drinking, but fortunately, her rtives didn¡¯t make things difficult for her. After finishing the first table, she only took a small sip and didn¡¯t encounter any trouble.

    At the second table, she drank slightly more.

    By the third table, Su Qingnuan glimpsed from the corner of her eye that Fu Yihan was secretly tipping his wine ss slightly to pour out half of the drink.

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes and met Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze directly.

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan reached out, took Su Qingnuan¡¯s wine ss, poured out half of its contents too, and returned it to her hand.

    Su Qingnuan looked at him dazed, unsure of what he meant.

    "Finally here!" A deep, booming voice snapped Su Qingnuan out of her thoughts.

    A tall and strapping man stood up, his face beaming with a cheerful smile.

    "Yihan, your uncle has been waiting for you to get married!" The man raised an oversized wine ss enthusiastically. "Tonight, your uncle won¡¯t leave unless he¡¯s drunk!"

    "...Mm."

    "You too!" The man pointed at Fu Yihan¡¯s wine ss assertively. "You must down this ss for me."

    Fu Yihan arched a brow, his expression calm. "Alright."

    It was only at that moment that Su Qingnuan realized why Fu Yihan had acted as he did earlier.

    The two clinked sses and then finished their drinks in one go.

    Uncle still didn¡¯t seem satisfied and grabbed Fu Yihan to drink more.

    The woman sitting beside him finally couldn¡¯t take it anymore and tugged him down. "That¡¯s enough! There are still so many rtives here. Wait until the toasts are over before you start again."

    "Fine!" The man waved his hand grandly. "Go ahead."

    The crowd hurried Fu Yihan on to the next table.

    Looking at her empty ss, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but feel relieved. Fortunately, Fu Yihan had poured out some of her wine earlier; otherwise, it would¡¯ve been problematic now.

    After circting through several tables, Su Qingnuan had taken two or three sips of wine.

    Her cheeks flushed slightly, and Su Qingnuan knew she couldn¡¯t drink any further.

    However, enthusiastic rtives inevitably came over. These rtives naturally knew that Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t drink much, so the wine naturally fell to Su Qingnuan¡¯s share.

    Clinging to thest threads of her rationality, Su Qingnuan gripped Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair handle and whispered, "Mr. Fu, I can¡¯t drink anymore...."

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes and noticed Su Qingnuan¡¯s paleplexion beneath her makeup. His brows furrowed lightly.

    "Aqi."

    "Here."

    Fu Yihan nced at the person leaning against him. "Take her to the adjoining room to rest."

    "Understood."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s cover, Su Qingnuan was escorted next door.

    As soon as she saw the sofa, Su Qingnuan copsed onto it without hesitation.

    Seeing this, Aqi said softly, "Young Madam, please rest for a while. Once the banquet is over, we¡¯lle back to escort you."

    Su Qingnuan waved her hand, signaling him to leave.

    The door was shut, and darkness enveloped the room, prompting Su Qingnuan to close her eyes.

 Chapter 47: Bedtime Milk

    <h4>Chapter 47: Chapter 47: Bedtime Milk</h4><h4></h4>

    Her heart pounded furiously, as if it were the one intoxicated.

    The powerful rhythm was like a dance that apanied life itself.

    Su Qingyun hadn¡¯t felt so deeply alive for a very long time.

    She clutched her chest, her body slowly curling inward.

    She had no idea how long she had been asleep in the darkness. When her consciousness cleared again, all she felt was an icy chill throughout her body.

    Rubbing her arms for warmth, Su Qingyun slowly got to her feet.

    The silent room gave her a brief sense of disorientation. Soon enough, Su Qingyun gathered herself and stood up.

    The earlier sensation of her thundering heartbeat had gradually faded away.

    ncing with a touch of longing at the spot near her chest, Su Qingyun walked toward the door.

    "Did you see that person?" A clear voice called out from outside the door.

    Su Qingyun¡¯s hand, which was holding the doorknob, halted abruptly and slowly pulled back.

    "Didn¡¯t see her! Why? Are you looking for her?"

    A familiar voice spun through her mind, and Su Qingyun instantly realized who it belonged to.

    Fu Jia! Fu Yihan¡¯s cousin.

    "Of course! If it weren¡¯t for her, Xiaoyuan would already be my sister-inw! I can¡¯t stand her!"

    Was this... Fu Qin?

    "You¡¯d better not stir up trouble," Fu Jia said, his toneced with helplessness. "Cousin has already said his piece. If you pull something else, he¡¯ll probably lose his temper."

    "Hmph! He hasn¡¯t exactly been short-tempered for just a day or two. With Grandpa here, he wouldn¡¯t dare do anything to me anyway!" Fu Qin said smugly.

    "You..." Fu Jia began, but stopped mid-sentence.

    "Enough with the chatter! Hurry up and find her for me! I¡¯m going to check the bathroom!"

    "Fine, fine."

    Listening to the departing footsteps, Su Qingyun reached out and locked the door, then returned to the sofa to sit down.

    The cocky young woman was none other than Fu Yihan¡¯s uncle¡¯s only daughter. No matter how justified Su Qingyun was in her stance, she couldn¡¯t possibly win against therge Fu family.

    If she couldn¡¯t provoke them, she could surely avoid them, right?

    With this thought in mind, Su Qingyuny back down and started ying on her phone.

    Time ticked by, minute after minute. During this, someone knocked on the door more than once, but Su Qingyun ignored itpletely.

    It wasn¡¯t until Fu Yihan¡¯s icy voice sounded from outside the door that Su Qingyun hurriedly leapt up and went to unlock the door.

    Standing at the door, Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t looking pleased.

    Su Qingyun scratched her head and said apologetically, "I fell asleep."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan shifted his gaze away and turned to leave, saying, "Let¡¯s go. The gathering is over."

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingyun couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    Noticing her expression from the corner of his eye, Fu Yihan teased, "You seem rather happy."

    "Huh?" Su Qingyun quickly stifled her smile and replied earnestly, "I just think the Fu family looks so harmonious, like everyone gets along so well."

    "Harmonious?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly. "Youngdy, don¡¯t be fooled by appearances."

    "Huh?"

    Giving her a meaningful nce, Fu Yihan remarked sardonically, "You¡¯ll understand eventually."

    "..."

    After a busy day, all Su Qingyun wanted upon returning home was to take a shower and lie down.

    But the moment she had settled into bed, the old master summoned everyone downstairs for dinner.

    Even though she hadn¡¯t eaten much at the banquet, Su Qingyun still had no valid excuse to decline.

    After being summoned repeatedly, Su Qingyun couldn¡¯t refuse any longer and had to go downstairs.

    The dining room was already filled with people, all sitting upright and rigid, with no one actually eating yet.

    "Yuerou,e sit down," the old master said.

    Su Qingyun smiled and nodded, taking a seat next to Fu Yihan.

    The old master nodded in satisfaction, his gaze sweeping over everyone before he finally smiled and said, "Now that most of us are here, let¡¯s begin."

    "Let¡¯s start quickly and wrap it up early; I want to rest," Fu Yihan said bluntly.

    The old master shot him a re before smiling again and looking at Su Qingyun, "Now that you two are officially married, everyone both inside and outside of the family knows of your rtionship now."

    "You¡¯ve already emphasized this across two banquets. There¡¯s no need to repeat it."

    "..." The old master¡¯s reproachful stare fell on Fu Yihan, and he frowned. "Can you at least let me finish speaking?"

    "Fine," Fu Yihan agreed with a nod, his face expressionless. "I¡¯ll wait until you¡¯re done talking."

    Finally satisfied, the old master chuckled and said, "Now that you¡¯ve gotten married, shouldn¡¯t we go ahead and start discussing having children?"

    "..."

    Su Qingyun nced at Fu Yihan in embarrassment, only to see his face livid.

    Apart from the old master, everyone else in the room wore expressions of difort.

    Evenpared to Fu Yihan, Fu Yixing and Yun Meifeng didn¡¯t appear much better.

    Fu Yixing let out a smallugh and said in a low voice, "Grandpa, big brother is still so young. There¡¯s no rush to talk about kids, is there?"

    "What do you know?" The old master red at him and said firmly, "When I was your age, your father could already run errands to buy soy sauce bottles!"

    "..." Fu Yihan frowned, "You didn¡¯t have to attend university back then, though. Can it reallypare?"

    "... Haven¡¯t you already graduated from university now?" The old master¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement as he continued, "Look at me¡ªI¡¯m already quite old. Every time I¡¯ve brought this up, you¡¯d say you weren¡¯t married yet. Now that you¡¯re married, shouldn¡¯t you let me hope for something at least?"

    "..."

    Silence filled the room.

    Not once had Su Qingyun imagined the topic of having children would be brought up so explicitly by the old master. She lowered her head, visibly flustered.

    Seeing Fu Yihan remain unmoved, the old master turned his gaze toward Su Qingyun once again.

    "Yuerou, what do you think?"

    Caught off guard, Su Qingyun froze momentarily before instinctively ncing at Fu Yihan.

    "Hey!" The old master tapped the table lightly. "I¡¯m asking you! Why are you looking at him? Just share your thoughts!"

    Nervously twisting her hands, Su Qingyun forced augh and said, "I... I¡¯ll do my best!"

    "Good!" the old master said enthusiastically, mming the table lightly and smiling broadly. "That¡¯s enough for me to hear! Come on, let¡¯s eat!"

    A chill emanated from her right side, causing Su Qingyun to lower her head, avoiding eye contact.

    Under the biting cold re, Su Qingyun finished her meal as quickly as possible, seizing the first opportunity to slip away unnoticed.

    Back in her room, Su Qingyun locked the door immediately, sealing herself inside.

    Not long after, she heard the sound of the door opening outside.

    Su Qingyun held her breath, her eyes fixed on the door.

    Yet, the anticipated confrontation didn¡¯t ur. The sound of wheelchair wheels merely moved further inward, and never back out again.

    After spending two or three days hiding away like a coward, Su Qingyun was stopped by the old master.

    "Take this milk upstairs to Fu Yihan when you go up."

    He drinks milk before bed?

    epting the ss of milk with slight confusion, Su Qingyun carefully carried it upstairs.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    "Come in."

    Su Qingyun pushed the door open quietly and offered a faint smile. "Mr. Fu, your milk."

    Fu Yihan, with his back to her, replied coldly.

    "Bring it over."

    "... Okay."

    Tiptoeing over, Su Qingyun ced the milk within arm¡¯s reach before swiftly turning away.

    "Wait."

 Chapter 48: Do You Really Want a Child?

    <h4>Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Do You Really Want a Child?</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan picked up the milk and said nonchntly, "Once I¡¯m done drinking, take it away."

    She was no servant!

    "Oh."

    Fu Yihan drank the milk neither too quickly nor too slowly, one sip at a time, without pausing, yet the milk seemed endless.

    As the bottom of the ss became visible, Fu Yihan lifted his hand.

    Su Qingnuan quickly reached out, took the milk ss, and turned to leave.

    "Bring in some fruit."

    Su Qingnuan froze in her tracks at the doorway and turned to nce at Fu Yihan. He was still facing away from her, lookingpletely at ease.

    "...Alright."

    After returning the empty ss to the kitchen, Su Qingnuan retrieved some fruit and brought it upstairs.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    No response.

    He had just been inside¡ªnow he wasn¡¯t?

    Su Qingnuan tentatively pushed the door, not expecting it to open so easily.

    As the door swung inward, a pale hand came into view, followed by the rest of the figure.

    "Fu Yihan?"

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly set the items down and rushed over to support Fu Yihan.

    His entire body was burning hot, his face rmingly flushed.

    "Fu Yihan?" Su Qingnuan patted his cheek and frowned. "How are you feeling?"

    Fu Yihan kept his eyes closed, his teeth clenched, and remained silent.

    "I¡¯ll go get the doctor!"

    Su Qingnuan leaned him against the side of the bed and promptly got up to dash out.

    But as soon as she stood, her right hand was suddenly grabbed, pulling her back down.

    She ended up halfying on Fu Yihan, feeling the blistering heat radiating from his body.

    The hand holding her showed no intention of letting go and gripped her tightly.

    Su Qingnuan winced from the pain, frowning as she tried to pry his hand loose.

    "Rx, I¡¯m going to find a doctor!" Su Qingnuan said anxiously.

    Yet her struggles only made him grip her harder.

    "Don¡¯t move!"

    The low and husky voice instantly froze Su Qingnuan in ce.

    When she looked up, Fu Yihan had already opened his eyes.

    However, his eyes were bloodshot, as though suppressing something.

    "What¡¯s wrong with you?" Su Qingnuan asked nervously. "I¡¯ll go get the doctor."

    Fu Yihan stared at her, his expression unreadable.

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s worried gaze, he suddenly leaned toward her.

    "Hey, hey, hey?" Su Qingnuan eximed as she fell back in confusion.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s arm braced on both sides of her shoulders, towering over her.

    "Su Qingnuan, do you want a child so badly?"

    "...What?" Su Qingnuan asked, utterly perplexed. "What child?"

    "Still pretending?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly, his body inching closer. "Fine then, since you want it so much, I¡¯ll..."

    As he approached, his heated breath brushed against Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheeks.

    "No! Fu Yihan, what are you doing? I¡ªmmph..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened, staring at the face that had abruptlye so close, her brain fogging up in confusion.

    Theck of oxygen to her mind made her lose any sense of judgment.

    What was she doing now?

    Shouldn¡¯t she be pushing him away? Why was her body limp and powerless?

    Suddenly, Su Qingnuan snapped out of it.

    She shoved him off with a jolt and scrambled to the side in a panic.

    Rolling to the wall, she steadied herself against it and stood up.

    Looking down, she realized her clothes had unknowingly be disheveled.

    Clutching her cor tightly, Su Qingnuan lowered her head. "I¡¯m going to find a doctor."

    With that, she bolted out of the room.

    Fu Yihany on the floor, his bloodshot eyes growing darker.

    He stared silently at the ceiling and suddenly let out a chuckle.

    "Miscalcted..."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan returned with Ah Qi to find Fu Yihan lying motionless on the ground.

    Ah Qi entered the room and helped Fu Yihan up.

    "Aside from you, who else knows?" Fu Yihan asked with his eyes closed.

    His fists clenched tightly, veins protruding.

    Ah Qi frowned, nced at Su Qingnuan, and responded softly, "Eldest Young Master, Eldest Young Mistress didn¡¯t rm anyone else."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan nodded slowly. "Push me to the bathroom."

    Following Fu Yihan¡¯s instructions, Ah Qi moved him to the bathroom before retreating.

    "How is he?" Su Qingnuan asked nervously.

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t answer before the sound of running water came from the shower.

    "Eldest Young Mistress, you should rest for now," Ah Qi said.

    When he spoke, his head was turned away, avoiding looking at Su Qingnuan directly.

    Su Qingnuan simply murmured "Okay," turned, and went back to her room.

    As she sat on the bed, Su Qingnuan looked down and noticed her neckline had somehow opened up.

    No wonder Ah Qi had spoken with his head sideways earlier, deliberately avoiding eye contact.

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth and quickly changed her clothes.

    This was bad. Ah Qi definitely knew what had happened between them...

    Fu Yihan¡¯s condition clearly stemmed from something he consumed.

    But what could he have eaten in the brief moments upstairs and downstairs?

    Suddenly, Su Qingnuan sat upright.

    Milk...

    Earlier, Fu Yihan had asked her, "Do you want a child so badly?"

    If it was the milk...

    Su Qingnuan covered her face and buried herself under the nket.

    The milk hade from Old Master Fu¡ªit couldn¡¯t possibly be him who¡¯d drugged it, could it?

    Now even jumping into the Yellow River wouldn¡¯t wash her clean!

    This night was destined to be sleepless.

    She barely managed to drift off when the loud knocking on the door startled her awake again.

    Groggily climbing out of bed, Su Qingnuan opened the door in her sleepwear.

    Standing outside was the exuberant Old Master Fu, his face beaming.

    "Yuerou! Why is it you who¡¯s up?" Old Master Fu¡¯s meaningful gaze roved over her, finally stopping at the corner of Su Qingnuan¡¯s mouth.

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled. "Grandpa, why are you up so early?"

    "Grandpa¡¯s here to call you both for breakfast!" Old Master Fu waved his hands and said matter-of-factly, "And maybe get some exercise while we¡¯re at it."

    His gaze shifted away, and he added, "If you two are too tired, you don¡¯t have to get up. I¡¯ll save you some food."

    With that, he turned and left.

    Watching his brisk departure, Su Qingnuan felt inexplicably confused.

    Closing the door, Su Qingnuan turned around.

    "Ah!"

    The person suddenly appearing behind her startled Su Qingnuan, causing her to bump into the door.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s face remained steady as he frowned. "What are you doing?"

    "Just..." Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, cautiously pointed at the door, and said, "Grandpa just came knocking."

    "What did he say?"

    "He asked us to go down for breakfast."

    "Hmm."

    The conversation came to an abrupt end, and the atmosphere turned awkward.

    Su Qingnuan fiddled with the hem of her clothes, twisting it repeatedly.

    Seeing her nearly distort the fabric, Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "Why are you still standing there? Aren¡¯t you going to change beforeing down to eat?"

    "...I¡¯ll change!"

    With that, she turned back to her room.

    Watching her flee, Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze deepened.

    After taking her time to change, Su Qingnuan cautiously opened her door a crack, peered outside, and only stepped out when she confirmed no one was there.

    ...

    That day, Old Master Fu was in high spirits, chatting cheerfully at the dining table.

 Chapter 49 Academics

    <h4>Chapter 49: Chapter 49 Academics</h4><h4></h4>

    "Yurou ising down. Hurry,e take a seat here!"

    Seeing Mr. Fu¡¯s enthusiastic demeanor, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt a chill run down her back.

    She smiled and sat down, keeping her head low as she ate.

    Noticing the elder¡¯s cheerful mood, Fu Yixing smirked smugly and said, "Grandpa, did something good happen at thepany? Why are you so happy?"

    "...."

    His smile cooled abruptly.

    The elder turned to Fu Yixing with sharp eyes. "Yixing, I¡¯ve heard you¡¯ve been making big moves at thepany recently?"

    Fu Yixing¡¯s smile stiffened slightly, and he chuckled softly, "Grandpa, what are you saying? Everything I do is in ordance with the regtions."

    "In ordance with the regtions? Is firing old employees also ording to the regtions?"

    Fu Yixing frowned and nced at Fu Yihan before replying, "Those seniors are already past retirement age and refuse to leave thepany. I¡¯m just trying to bring in new talent!"

    "Does ourpanyck money? Hiring new talent is fine, but you can¡¯t just decide to fire old employees on a whim. How can you expect the staff below to have noints?"

    "Whatints could they have? It¡¯s allpany policy. If seniors have already exceeded the age limit, isn¡¯t it natural that thepany no longer needs them?"

    The elder¡¯s brow furrowed deeply, his gaze bing increasingly sharp.

    "This is exactly why I didn¡¯t hand over thepany to you before¡ªworried you¡¯d act impulsively. And here we are!"

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing gritted his teeth. "Thepany is running fine now, isn¡¯t it? What have I done wrong?"

    "Yixing," Yun Meifeng pressed down on Fu Yixing¡¯s hand, smiling gently, "Since Grandpa raised these concerns, then there must be issues. You should be humble and open to advice."

    "..."

    Fu Yixing looked at the elder, words on the verge of escaping his lips but never quite spoken.

    The elder frowned, shifting his gaze briefly toward Yun Meifeng.

    "Enough. Let¡¯s not discuss these matters while eating¡ªit ruins the mood. Focus on eating."

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing said anxiously.

    "Yixing!" Yun Meifeng frowned. "Eat first."

    Fu Yixing nced at Yun Meifeng, grinding his teeth together before lowering his head.

    A heavy tension settled among them; no one dared to speak further.

    Once the meal was over, Su Qingnuan jogged upstairs and returned to her room.

    She had just sat down when her phone lit up with a call.

    Seeing the caller ID, Su Qingnuan froze momentarily.

    Having spent so much time at the Fu family estate, she had nearly forgotten about unfinished matters she still needed to address.

    She picked up the call, chuckling lightly, "Hello, what made you think of calling me today?"

    "Wow! I finally managed to get in touch with you!" A loud, excited voice came from the other side. "The new semester starts in just a few days¡ªare you really not going to continue your studies?"

    Su Qingnuan paused briefly, her brows furrowing. "Who told you I wasn¡¯t nning to continue?"

    "Last month, your mom came to school asking to process your leave of absence. She told the dean you weren¡¯ting back. We couldn¡¯t contact you at all afterward and thought you really weren¡¯t returning."

    "...She was talking nonsense." Su Qingnuan replied sternly, "I¡¯ll exin everything to the dean."

    "That¡¯s great! I¡¯m heading back in a few days¡ªwill youe pick me up?" Gu Xiaoxiao, her caller, rxed and asked with augh.

    "How could I not pick you up?" Su Qingnuan said with a smile.

    "You wouldn¡¯t dare! Do you know how long I¡¯ve been worried sick over this? You have toe pick me up!"

    From the other end of the call, Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s voice brimmed with excitement.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly, "Alright, alright, I got it. Just wait¡ªI¡¯ll definitely be there to pick you up."

    "Deal! My flight is scheduled for the 16th¡ªjust two days from now. Don¡¯t forget."

    "Got it."

    After hanging up the phone, Su Qingnuan recalled that her reference books were still at the Su family home.

    And then there was the matter of going back to school...

    Outside, she heard the sound of a door opening. Su Qingnuan stood up and cracked her door open slightly.

    Fu Yihan had entered his room, but catching the movement on his right side, he turned to look.

    Through the crack in the door, an eye peeked out cautiously, fixated on him.

    "What are you up to?" Fu Yihan asked, his face impassive.

    "Ahem¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan opened her door fully, poking her head out with a light smile. "Mr. Fu, could we have a word?"

    Raising a brow, Fu Yihan rolled his wheelchair to sit by the sofa.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan darted out and sat opposite him.

    "Go ahead," Fu Yihan leaned back against his chair, his deep, prating gaze fixed on her.

    Ufortably fidgeting with the hem of her clothing, Su Qingnuan spoke hesitantly. "Before I got married, I was still in school, and I haven¡¯t finished my studies yet. sses start again in a few days, so I was wondering..."

    "You want to go back to school?"

    "Yes..." Su Qingnuan observed his expression carefully, her voice soft. "If I go back to school, I¡¯ll have less time at home, so I thought..."

    "Fine."

    Before Su Qingnuan finished exining, Fu Yihan agreed readily.

    Her prepared arguments froze on her lips, left unsaid.

    She stared at him in surprise, momentarily stupefied.

    "What are you studying?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Snapping back to reality, Su Qingnuan quickly answered, "I¡¯m studying IT."

    "IT?" A flicker of surprise crossed Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze before he turned to look at her fully. "How are your grades?"

    "My grades...." Su Qingnuan lowered her head, smiling modestly. "Not bad. In exams, I usually rank first or second in the grade."

    First or second in the grade?

    Another sh of surprise swept through Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes. He turned around to focus on her, now entirely serious.

    "You graduate next year, don¡¯t you?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan nodded with a grin, "Next summer."

    "That¡¯s good. Have you thought about whichpany you¡¯ll work for in the future?"

    "Hmm..." Su Qingnuan frowned slightly in thought, "I haven¡¯t decided. There were a fewpanies that invited me, but then... after getting married, nothing came of it."

    "Oh?" Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved slightly upward. "Consider mypany."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned. "Does the Fu family also operate in IT?"

    "Not the Fu family." Fu Yihan took out a business card and ced it before her. "Mypany."

    The card exuded luxury, its gold lettering standing out prominently.

    The sleek ck background was adorned with the dazzling gold words "General Manager."

    Fu Yuan?

    Fu Yuan IT?

    Wasn¡¯t this thepany that had skyrocketed in the IT industry in recent years?

    "You¡¯re the owner of Fu Yuan?"

    Her pale, delicate face was full of shock. Her wide eyes seemed ready to peer into Fu Yihan¡¯s very soul, questioning if he was truly who he seemed.

    "What?" Fu Yihan raised a brow, his sharp eyes emanating coldness. "Do I not look the part?"

    "No, no!" Su Qingnuan quickly waved her hands. "I just thought that, managing such argepany under the Fu family name and running your ownpany, you must be very busy."

    "It¡¯s manageable," Fu Yihan said nonchntly. "If you¡¯re interested, take the card to HR. They¡¯ll arrange a chance for you to intern."

    Su Qingnuan carefully put the card away, nodding earnestly. "Thank you, Mr. Fu."

    Her cautious manner didn¡¯t escape Fu Yihan¡¯s attention. Pleased, he turned his wheelchair and moved further inside the room.

 Chapter 50 Unrelated to the Su Family

    <h4>Chapter 50: Chapter 50 Unrted to the Su Family</h4><h4></h4>

    With Fu Yihan¡¯s permission, Su Qingnuan requested leave from him the next day to return to the Su family home and pack her belongings.

    Standing in front of the Su family¡¯s gates once again, countless memories from the past surged into her mind.

    The gatekeeper spotted Su Qingnuan and smiled, saying, "The eldest miss has returned!"

    "Mm."

    "The young miss and madam are both home!"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s footsteps faltered slightly, and she paused.

    She had nned to grab her things and leave immediately, but with those two present, it wouldn¡¯t be so simple.

    Strengthening her resolve, Su Qingnuan raised her foot again and walked forward.

    Opening the door and stepping into the house, a burst ofughter reached her ears.

    "Mom! Look at this¡ªit¡¯s so funny."

    "Why are youughing? What¡¯s going on with you and that boy?"

    "Oh, don¡¯t get so anxious! He¡¯s not going anywhere, and I was just thinking, what if I meet someone even better?"

    "You... don¡¯t..."

    The conversation abruptly stopped as Jiang Liyun frowned deeply, ring at the figure standing at the doorway.

    "Why are you back?"

    Lowering her head, Su Qingnuan walked in, saying, "I came to pick up some things."

    She quickened her pace and headed upstairs.

    "What things could she possibly need? Didn¡¯t she act like she despised us before?"

    Su Yuerou¡¯s high-pitched voice pierced her ears.

    Gritting her teeth, Su Qingnuan sped up, reaching the entrance to her room.

    The moment she pushed open the door, Su Qingnuan froze.

    Her room was filled with unfamiliar items; cardboard boxes were scattered everywhere.

    Unlike its usual clean and tidy appearance, her room now resembled a storage space.

    Her clenched fists hung tense by her sides as she nced toward the staircase.

    The asionalughter from downstairs felt like a dagger stabbing deep into Su Qingnuan¡¯s chest.

    Never mind, never mind!

    She had already given up hope long ago¡ªwhy waste energy grieving over this?

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan stepped inside.

    Navigating awkwardly through the maze of boxes, she retrieved her books from the shelf and gathered a few important possessions.

    After sealing her suitcase, Su Qingnuan lifted her gaze, surveying the space where she had spent over twenty years of her life.

    The stifling air carried a faint musty odor.

    This was the ce she had called home for so many years.

    Her right hand brushed against the desk as she murmured softly, "I suppose I won¡¯t have a chance to see this again."

    The lower-right corner of the desk bore numerous carved marks¡ªa habit she¡¯d formed to remind herself to study hard. Each failed test earned one stroke.

    By now, there were only two strokes visible.

    Lightly running her hand over the uneven surface, the sensation jolted Su Qingnuan back to reality.

    Drawing her hand back, Su Qingnuan picked up her suitcase, turned, and left.

    Descending the stairs, the mother-daughter pair remained seated on the couch.

    Su Yuerou caught sight of the suitcase in her hand and sneered mockingly.

    "What¡¯s that for? Did the Fu family not buy clothes for you? You still need to take clothes from here?"

    Ignoring the provocative nces, Su Qingnuan dragged her suitcase toward the exit.

    "Su Qingnuan!"

    Stopping in her tracks, Su Qingnuan turned her head.

    Jiang Liwen stared at her sternly, visibly displeased.

    "Your sister is speaking to you¡ªcan¡¯t you hear her?"

    "I heard."

    "Then why didn¡¯t you reply?"

    Su Qingnuan curled her lips into a mocking smile and retorted with her own sarcasm.

    "Why should I reply?"

    "You!" Jiang Liwen grew visibly angrier, her gaze scrutinizing Su Qingnuan up and down. "So now that you¡¯ve married into the Fu family, you think you can disregard us entirely?"

    Raising an eyebrow, Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "Mom, you shouldn¡¯t forget¡ªit was you who rejected me first."

    "... What nonsense are you saying?"

    Jiang Liwen stood up, rage evident in her expression as she pointed usingly at Su Qingnuan. "I raised you all these years, and this is how you treat me?"

    "The way you treat me is how I¡¯ll treat you."

    Her unwavering gaze suddenly stopped Jiang Liwen in her tracks.

    "Ungrateful daughter!"

    "Smack¡ª"

    Pain radiated from her arm as Su Qingnuan looked at the hand she¡¯d caught, firmly blocking the intended strike.

    Jiang Liwen staggered back two steps, staring at Su Qingnuan in disbelief.

    "You actually shoved me?"

    "What¡¯s going on?" Su Yuerou helped Jiang Liwen steady herself and yelled angrily, "Su Qingnuan, are you crazy? That¡¯s your mother¡ªyou actually dared to shove her?"

    She held up her own reddened arm.

    "This is thest time. Mom, remember, you were the one who abandoned me first."

    Her gaze was resolute,manding respect without anger.

    Completely different from her formerly timid demeanor, Jiang Liwen briefly froze, while even Su Yuerou found herself momentarily lost for words.

    Su Qingnuan hoisted her suitcase and spun around, striding boldly out of the Su household.

    As they watched her departure, Su Yuerou lowered her gaze and murmured, "Mom... I feel like she¡¯s changed...."

    "..."

    Jiang Liwen remained silent for a while, before curling her lips into a smile and saying, "And what if she¡¯s changed? She¡¯s still herself¡ªthat inherently insecure girl. This is just a fleeting moment of borrowed confidence."

    "... I think..."

    "Enough!" Jiang Liwen held Su Yuerou¡¯s hand and stood up. "Yuerou, from now on, I only have you. Always remember¡ªno matter what happens, I will stand by your side."

    Seeing her mother¡¯s gentle yet firm gaze, Su Yuerou smiled and nodded.

    ...

    Suppressing the pent-up frustration in her chest, Su Qingnuan left the Su family home.

    The moment she passed through the iron gates, she finally exhaled deeply.

    The fresh air surrounded her, filled with birdsong, the fragrance of flowers¡ªeverything seemed so beautiful.

    A slight smile tugged at the corners of her lips as Su Qingnuan spread her arms wide, skipping forward in delight.

    Humming a tune, she carried her suitcase back to the Fu residence.

    Su Qingnuan cheerfully organized her belongings in her room.

    Her vibrant singing reached Fu Yihan¡¯s ears as he returned home.

    Noticing the slightly ajar door, Fu Yihan moved toward it.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    The singing abruptly stopped as Su Qingnuan opened the door.

    "Mr. Fu!" Su Qingnuan¡¯s radiant smile shone as she stepped back.

    "Please,e in and have a seat."

    ncing at her messy bed, Fu Yihan¡¯s dark gaze briefly flickered with an indiscernible emotion before he turned his head.

    "No need. The day after tomorrow, Ah Qi will take you to register at the school."

    Register at school?

    Su Qingnuan froze.

    Seeing her remain silent, Fu Yihan added, "No need to arrange amodation. You¡¯lle back in the evenings directly."

    Then he turned his wheelchair around.

    "Mr. Fu!" Su Qingnuan quickly walked over, grasping the side of his wheelchair and cautiously asking, "You... you¡¯ve arranged everything for me?"

    His cold gazended on her hand, prompting Su Qingnuan to hurriedly retract it and lower her head.

    "I just... I¡¯m just a little surprised. My mother had suspended my studies earlier, so I thought it might be tricky..."

    "It¡¯s a simple matter," Fu Yihan interrupted her. "Study hard. You¡¯re the nation¡¯s future blossom."

    "..."

    Wait¡ªdid he just make a joke?

    "Pack your things."

    With that, Fu Yihan wheeled himself to his room without another word.

    Staring at the closed door, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt a wave of warmth in her heart.

    Although he appeared cold and unapproachable, he could asionally be quite thoughtful....

    Smiling involuntarily, she turned to close her own door as her lively singing once again echoed through the room.

 Chapter 51: Good Friend Gu Xiaoxiao

    <h4>Chapter 51: Chapter 51: Good Friend Gu Xiaoxiao</h4><h4></h4>

    On the first day of the month, Su Qingnuan woke up early, quickly tidied up, and went out.

    The airport in City A has several exits. Su Qingnuan stood outside thergest one, tiptoeing as she scanned the crowd.

    "Qingnuan!" A tall, ponytailed girl in a white tracksuit raised her right hand, waving it repeatedly, her face beaming with a cheerful smile.

    Su Qingnuan smiled and opened her arms, as Gu Xiaoxiao ran over, chuckling lightly, "As expected of my best friend, you¡¯re so punctual!"

    "Missy, you¡¯ve already issued your orders, how could I note?"

    "That¡¯s more like it!" Gu Xiaoxiao draped her arm over Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder, pulling her luggage as they walked out together. "I called for a car. Are youing back to school with me?"

    "Yes, I¡¯m taking you to school today." Su Qingnuan nodded with a smile.

    "Hmm?" Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly stopped and looked at her in confusion. "Today? Aren¡¯t youing back to stay in the dorm?"

    "I..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curled into a subtle, almost imperceptible bitter smile. "This semester, I might not stay in the dorm. I¡¯ll probably bemuting."

    "Commuting?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as she watched her.

    Although the school didn¡¯t explicitly forbidmuting, living in the dorms made getting to ss much more convenient. Generally speaking, most students opted for dorm life.

    Most people foundmuting too inconvenient and chose to return to the dormitory, but cases like Mu Chenxue, who switched from living in the dorms tomuting, were rare.

    "Yep!" Su Qingnuan helped push her suitcase forward. "There are some things going on at home right now, so I need to go back every day."

    "...Alright then." Gu Xiaoxiao tilted her head back and sighed. "My dear roommate ismuting now? Who¡¯s going to bring me breakfast in the future? Just thinking about it makes life feel so hopeless suddenly."

    "So you¡¯re only worried about your breakfast, huh?" Su Qingnuan rolled her eyes at her, mock-annoyed. "I was thinking about howmuting might let me bring you some extra snacks, but now it seems... never mind."

    "No, wait!" Gu Xiaoxiao quickly grabbed her sleeve, nervously pleading with her. "I didn¡¯t realize there¡¯d be such benefits. Ipletely support your decision tomute!"

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly, giving her an up-and-down look. "Swayed by the food?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao grinned sheepishly. "People live for food after all."

    What a little food lover, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t hide her amusement as her lips curled involuntarily, her eyes sparkling faintly.

    "Alright, let¡¯s head back. Didn¡¯t you say you¡¯ve been craving that chicken dish from the restaurant across from the school gates?"

    "Yes, yes! Let¡¯s go!"

    ...

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t have many ces she liked to go, and the school ranked high among them.

    Here, she could enjoy unfettered freedom, unbothered by judgmental stares or ulterior motives, immersing herselfpletely in her studies.

    She loved this simple way of living, but reality rarely allowed her that luxury.

    That¡¯s why Su Qingnuan cherished her time at school all the more.

    After helping Gu Xiaoxiao organize her dorm room, the two went to the old shop across from the back gate to eat the famous chicken dish.

    As they parted at the school gate, Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    "Qingnuan, will I see you at school tomorrow?"

    Su Qingnuan paused for a moment. Seeing the worry in her eyes, she couldn¡¯t help butugh.

    "Don¡¯t worry." She held her hand reassuringly. "I¡¯ll definitelye."

    Her determined gaze eased Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s concerns.

    "Alright then, I¡¯ll wait for you at the school gate tomorrow."

    "No need," Su Qingnuan smiled warmly. "Just wait for me in the ssroom. Don¡¯t worry, tomorrow I promise you¡¯ll see me swaggering into ss."

    Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled softly. "Alright."

    After bidding farewell to Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan returned home, feeling unusually cheerful.

    As soon as she stepped into the Fu household, Su Qingnuan stopped abruptly.

    The air was filled with a faint fragrance¡ªthe calming incense that the old man liked to use.

    But this scent was normally confined to the old man¡¯s room. How could it be lingering in the living room now?

    Cautiously, she stepped further inside. When she saw the people confronting each other in the living room, she quietly ducked into a corner, keeping her distance as she observed from afar.

    "Fu Yihan, today you¡¯d better give me an exnation. This matter isn¡¯t over!"

    Fu Yixing¡¯s indignant voice rang out.

    Across from him, Fu Yihan appeared calm, seemingly unaffected.

    "Fu Yihan!" Fu Yixing¡¯s voice wasced with barely concealed rage. "Do you really think I¡¯m an idiot?"

    The man finally raised his head, a faint smirk ying on his lips as he nced at him. "Aren¡¯t you?"

    "What¡¯s that supposed to mean?" Fu Yixing stepped forward.

    Before he could approach, Ah Qi suddenly appeared and blocked him.

    "Second Master, I¡¯m just a crude man. My fists don¡¯t have eyes."

    Ah Qi¡¯s sharp gaze carried an undeniable sense of intimidation as he stared coldly.

    Fu Yixing frowned and took a step back, his expression turning unpleasant.

    "Don¡¯t think just because Grandpa supports you, you can do whatever you please. If you¡¯re not willing to return to work at thepany, then stop interfering!"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

    "Yixing!" The old man stood up, his brow furrowed. "You¡¯ve gone too far this time. If it hadn¡¯t been for Yihan stabilizing the staff¡¯s morale, do you think they¡¯d still be working quietly now?"

    "We followed the procedures. Even if they have objections, they can only tolerate it!" Fu Yixing insisted with an air of righteousness.

    The old man frowned slightly, his expression conflicted as he looked at him.

    "Grandpa, since you¡¯ve handed thepany over to me, you should trust me!"

    "...I¡¯d like to trust you, but just look at the things you¡¯ve done since taking over."

    "This is all normal. Gains require sacrifice."

    "..."

    Watching Fu Yixing turn red with frustration, Fu Yihan chuckled softly. "I think he¡¯s right. Grandpa, since you¡¯ve given him thepany, you should trust him. I won¡¯t interfere in thepany¡¯s matters anymore."

    With that, Fu Yihan turned his wheelchair and began to leave.

    "Yihan!" The old man quickly grabbed the wheelchair, frowning deeply. "You¡¯re just going to leave things like this?"

    "Yixing is still young. He needs opportunities to prove himself. Let him handle it."

    "Hmph!" Fu Yixing sneered. "How pretentious."

    The old man frowned and red at him.

    Fu Yixing looked away with displeasure.

    "You said it yourself: Yixing is still young. There are many things he won¡¯t be able to handle on his own, and he¡¯ll need his big brother to guide him."

    "I¡¯m tired." Fu Yihan ignored the old man and looked to Ah Qi. "Ah Qi, take me upstairs."

    "Yes."

    Ah Qi gently but firmly took the wheelchair¡¯s handles from the old man, nodded slightly, and then pushed Fu Yihan toward the elevator.

    The old man watched them leave with a deeply furrowed brow.

    "Grandpa! Why won¡¯t you trust me?" Fu Yixing demanded irritably.

    The old man turned around and spoke sternly. "You¡¯ve only been in charge of thepany for a short time, yet already you¡¯re acting this impetuous. Your big brother ispetent¡ªyou have much to learn from him!"

 Chapter 52 Going to School

    <h4>Chapter 52: Chapter 52 Going to School</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan held the old man¡¯s hand for a moment, his eyes shing with disappointment.

    "Does Grandpa truly think I¡¯m incapable?"

    "...No." The old man sighed helplessly, "Yihan, you¡¯re still young. There¡¯s a lot you need to learn."

    Fu Yihan remained silent, his head lowered as he stayed quiet for a long time.

    The old man let out a faint sigh, patted him on the shoulder, and turned to return to his room.

    The living room, which had been full of confrontation earlier, suddenly fell silent.

    "Ah!"

    Fu Yihan suddenly grabbed a throw pillow from the sofa and mmed it forcefully onto the floor.

    His eyes were bloodshot, with red veins visible amidst his rage.

    Su Qingnuan slowly stepped back and exited the room.

    At a time like this, it was better to stay out of trouble.

    After wandering around the yard for a while, Su Qingnuan calcted that enough time had passed before heading back inside.

    The previously neat and tidy living room was now exceptionally messy. The servants were busy cleaning up, while the person responsible for the chaos was nowhere to be seen.

    Su Qingnuan jogged upstairs, quietly and carefully returning to her room.

    That night, Fu Yihan didn¡¯te looking for her, and no one else in the house had time to pay her any mind. Su Qingnuan ended up having a good night¡¯s sleep.

    The next morning, Su Qingnuan still got up early. After a simple routine, she grabbed her backpack and headed out the door.

    "Young Madam."

    "Ah! Ah?"

    The sudden voice startled Su Qingnuan, making her jump.

    Surprised, she looked at the person standing at the door, clutching her chest. "Ah Qi, what are you doing here?"

    "Young Madam, the Young Master instructed me to take you to school."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan turned her head to nce at Fu Yihan¡¯s room.

    The door was shut tight, a clear sign that he hadn¡¯te out.

    Remembering what he¡¯d said that day, she realized he hadn¡¯t been joking after all.

    Pulling her gaze back, Su Qingnuan smiled. "Well, thank you."

    "Young Madam, please. The car is already waiting outside."

    "Alright."

    With a private car at her disposal, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t have to squeeze onto the bus and arrived at school earlier than she had nned.

    "Ah Qi, you can stop at the gate."

    Ah Qi replied with an "Mm," and the car slowly came to a halt.

    Looking at the school gate not far ahead, Su Qingnuan opened the door and stepped out.

    "Thank you," she said, standing next to the passenger seat with a smile. "Drive safely on your way back."

    "Young Madam."

    Stopping Su Qingnuan before she left, Ah Qi continued, "I¡¯ll be waiting here for you this evening."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan cheerfully made her way toward the school gate.

    The night before, she had already downloaded her ss schedule. Today, her schedule was nearly full, so she headed straight to the ssroom with her backpack in tow.

    The ssroom was already filled with quite a few students. Su Qingnuan quickly spotted Gu Xiaoxiao among the crowd.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was busy organizing her desk when she suddenly felt a tap on her shoulder.

    Annoyed, she turned her head only to meet someone¡¯s gaze.

    "Hello!" Su Qingnuan waved her hand and smiled gently. "I came pretty early, didn¡¯t I?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed her hand, made room for her, and scooted over, lowering her voice. "Why are you here so early? I was nning to save a seat for you!"

    "It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve been back at school. Of course I need to make a good impression."

    "Been so long? Your family didn¡¯t want you toe back to school?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile stiffened. Scratching her head, she let out a bitterugh. "How could that be? They¡¯re really supportive of me attending school. But, well, the family situation is a bitplicated these days... It¡¯s tough to exin, but no¡ªno one doesn¡¯t want me to study."

    "That¡¯s good, then."

    Taking out some snacks from her bag, Su Qingnuan smiled and said, "Here! I brought these for you. Eat them quickly before the teacher arrives."

    Surprised and delighted, Gu Xiaoxiao epted the snacks with a smile. "As expected of my best friend. You always think of me when there¡¯s good stuff."

    "Of course!" Su Qingnuan pulled out her notebook and smiled gently. "So don¡¯t ever say I don¡¯t care about you anymore. Otherwise, it would be unfair to all the food I¡¯ve shared with you over the years."

    "Understood!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao finished her snack just as the teacher arrived.

    ss always seemed to pass quickly.

    The two back-to-back periods, nearly two hours in total, flew by just like that.

    "Quick, our next ss is in the eastern building. We¡¯d better head over," Su Qingnuan said as she packed up her backpack, urging her friend.

    "Huh?" Gu Xiaoxiao panicked. "I don¡¯t remember which ssroom it¡¯s in. Do you?"

    "I do; I¡¯ve got the schedule saved. Come on, let¡¯s go!"

    Since Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t run, the two could only walk briskly.

    Even so, it left Su Qingnuan pale-faced.

    "Are you okay?" Gu Xiaoxiao stopped and asked quietly.

    "I¡¯m fine," Su Qingnuan said, grabbing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s arm and pulling her along. "I¡¯ll sit down and rest once we¡¯re inside."

    The two entered the ssroom, which wasn¡¯t yet full, as people trickled in one after another.

    Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao stood up. "I¡¯ll go buy you a bottle of water. Take a break for now."

    "Alright, thanks."

    Su Qingnuan rested her head on the desk, trying to catch her breath.

    Just as she finally felt better, she suddenly heard faint rustling behind her.

    Su Qingnuan turned around.

    "Click¡ª"

    A sharp camera shutter sound rang out. The girl behind her froze for a moment before quickly putting her phone away.

    "What are you doing?" Su Qingnuan stretched out her hand. "Hand it over."

    The girl avoided her gaze. "I was just taking a picture of the ssroom, not of you. Stop being so full of yourself."

    Raising an eyebrow, Su Qingnuan smirked. "When did I ever say you were taking a picture of me?"

    The girl¡¯s face changed slightly.

    "Hand it over." Su Qingnuan curled her finger, staring her down.

    "..."

    The girl nced at her, reluctantly pulling out her phone. With exaggerated movements, she swiped through the screen a few times.

    "I already deleted it!" She held the phone up to Su Qingnuan¡¯s face, scrolling back and forth before she could get a good look. "See? No pictures of you."

    "...Alright."

    Despite her bad attitude, the photo was deleted, so Su Qingnuan decided to let it go. There were still sses to attend, after all.

    She turned back around and sat down.

    With her movement, many others in the room also shifted their attention back to their own desks.

    Taking out her books, Su Qingnuan started reviewing the material.

    "Here¡¯s your water."

    A bottle of waternded on her textbook. Su Qingnuan epted it and smiled. "Thank you."

    Gu Xiaoxiao sat down, scanning the room with a puzzled expression. "Why are all these people staring at you?"

    "Hmm?"

    Looking around, Su Qingnuan noticed that several people¡¯s heads shifted when she moved, quickly pretending to look straight ahead.

    "I just exchanged some words with the girl behind me earlier. Maybe my voice was loud," Su Qingnuan said nonchntly.

    "Oh."

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded absentmindedly, pulling out her phone.

    A momentter, Su Qingnuan felt her hand being grabbed suddenly.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Surprised, Su Qingnuan turned to find Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s face filled with anger.

    Gu Xiaoxiao shoved her phone in front of Su Qingnuan, fuming. "Look at this!"

    Staring intently, Su Qingnuan saw a zoomed-in photo.

    The image showed a girl in a id skirt, carrying a pale yellow backpack, leaning against a sleek ck car.

 Chapter 53 Rumors

    <h4>Chapter 53: Chapter 53 Rumors</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan was briefly stunned and looked down at the dress she was wearing.

    The same checkered dress, the same light yellow school bag.

    "Isn¡¯t this me?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "How is there a photo of this?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao, her expression serious, clicked on the photo and said coldly, "This is a post on the school forum. Look at the original post."

    The original post had a bold red character indicating it was "featured," a clear sign of its current poprity.

    Passerby A: I¡¯m so shocked! Our genius and campus beauty is actually being sponsored by someone!

    Passerby B: Holy crap, the car in the photo¡ªI¡¯ve only ever seen it on TV!

    Well Digger: I saw the campus beauty getting out of this car with my own eyes this morning. She looked so happy as she smiled!

    .....

    Comments like these made Su Qingnuan¡¯s brows furrow tightly.

    "What¡¯s going on?" Gu Xiaoxiao leaned closer to Su Qingnuan¡¯s ear and whispered, "Qingnuan, don¡¯t you dare lie to me. I know your family¡¯s situation¡ªit¡¯s not like you can afford that kind of car."

    ".....Actually..."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated and put down her phone. It was only now that she understood why so many people had been watching her, why that girl had tried to secretly take her photo¡ªit was all because of this post.

    "Ugh! Stop hesitating!" Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand and frowned. "If there¡¯s something going on, just tell me. Don¡¯t let those troublemakers seed!"

    "..."

    She still hadn¡¯t figured out how to open up to this best friend of hers and recount the strange experiences of this past period.

    Just then, the teacher entered the ssroom, and Su Qingnuan quickly said, "After ss. When we go to eat, I¡¯ll tell you properly."

    "Fine."

    Gu Xiaoxiao didn¡¯t press her further and turned her attention back to ss.

    During the lesson, though she appeared to be looking at the ckboard, Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze wandered, and she wasn¡¯t as focused as she seemed.

    In her heart, she was rehearsing how she should exin this matter to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    The two periods passed quickly, and before Su Qingnuan could sort out her thoughts, the bell signaling the end of ss had already rung.

    "Hurry up, pack your things, let¡¯s go to the cafeteria!" Gu Xiaoxiao urged.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and swiftly gathered her belongings.

    Leaving the ssroom, Su Qingnuan noticed that the passersby around her, to varying degrees, directed their gazes at her.

    Some were curious, some disdainful, and some outright scornful.

    Su Qingnuan tightly gripped her backpack straps, her fingers turning pale.

    Suddenly, a weight pressed down on her shoulder. Su Qingnuan turned her head to the side.

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s arm was slung over her shoulder, and she lookedpletely listless.

    "I¡¯m so tired! Let me lean on you while we walk!"

    Being slightly taller than Su Qingnuan, this position didn¡¯t take much effort for Gu Xiaoxiao¡ªin fact, she looked quitefortable, her face full of satisfaction.

    Carrying another person¡¯s weight, Su Qingnuan was rather helpless.

    "Are you trying to crush me? Do you not want my semester notes anymore?"

    "..." Gu Xiaoxiao immediately stood upright and red at her. "School just started, and you¡¯re already talking about final exams. Have a littlepassion, will you?"

    "I¡¯m just reminding you¡ªit¡¯ll be only one more year before we graduate. At that time....."

    She sounded like a little adult, lecturing away without stopping.

    Gu Xiaoxiao, having grown used to this side of Su Qingnuan, appeared a little exasperated but was secretly smiling with her eyes.

    Talking andughing all the way, the two finally arrived at the cafeteria, got their meals, and sat down.

    "Alright, now it¡¯s time to talk," Gu Xiaoxiao said seriously, staring at the person across from her. "Tell me the truth."

    "....." Su Qingnuan put down her chopsticks and smiled helplessly. "Actually, the reason my mom applied for leave for me before was that I had to go home and get married."

    Gu Xiaoxiao blinked and asked in confusion, "Excuse me? Did I mishear you? You said you...."

    "Yes, I got married," Su Qingnuan said firmly. "You didn¡¯t mishear me."

    "..."

    Gu Xiaoxiao stared nkly at Su Qingnuan,pletely stunned.

    "Xiaoxiao?" Su Qingnuan waved a hand in front of her face and sighed. "Snap out of it!"

    Her hand was suddenly grabbed by Gu Xiaoxiao with considerable force.

    "Ow¡ª" Su Qingnuan winced and shook her hand free, bewildered. "What are you doing?"

    "Does it hurt?"

    "Of course it hurts!"

    "So it¡¯s not a dream?" Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her, utterly shocked.

    Seeing her expression almost deformed from disbelief, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. "I¡¯m being serious. It¡¯s not a dream."

    "But... how did you end up married?"

    "Well, it wasn¡¯t exactly voluntary. Circumstances forced my hand, okay?" Su Qingnuan sighed. "Anyway, just know that that car isn¡¯t mine¡ªit belongs to my husband¡¯s family."

    "Your husband¡¯s family?" Gu Xiaoxiao leaned forward, hands on the table. "Who¡¯s your husband? Is he good-looking? What¡¯s his name?"

    Thinking of that handsome face, Su Qingnuan nced at Gu Xiaoxiao. "Do you really want to know?"

    "Of course! My best friend¡¯s married, and I don¡¯t even know who her husband is. You can¡¯t keep me in the dark!"

    "...Fine." Su Qingnuan leaned close to Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s ear and whispered, "Fu Yihan."

    "Fu Yihan? Who¡¯s that?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao looked puzzled.

    Leaning back in her chair, Su Qingnuan chuckled. "Go look him up online."

    True to her word, Gu Xiaoxiao whipped out her phone and started searching.

    A momentter, she gasped audibly.

    Su Qingnuan, who was eating, suddenly found her hand grabbed again.

    "Qingnuan, are you alright? You¡¯re not being abused, are you?"

    Su Qingnuanughed and pped her hand away. "What are you talking about? Do I look like someone who¡¯s being abused?"

    "No, but... the way he¡¯s described online is kind of terrifying."

    Recalling her initial reaction to those online descriptions, Su Qingnuan realized her feelings weren¡¯t much different from Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s.

    "You¡¯re overthinking it. It¡¯s not that exaggerated." Su Qingnuan picked up her chopsticks again and smiled. "He¡¯s really handsome. His temper isn¡¯t great, but he wouldn¡¯t go so far as to abuse me."

    Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "Why would you marry someone like that? Is he anything besides rich?"

    For a moment, Su Qingnuan¡¯s chopstick hand paused. Then she tilted her head and frowned back at her.

    "Looks?"

    "...What does he look like?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked curiously.

    "Doesn¡¯t it say online?" Su Qingnuan asked back.

    "Nope."

    "Too bad, I don¡¯t have any pictures either."

    "..." Gu Xiaoxiao red at her indignantly. "Are you messing with me?"

    "I¡¯m not!" Su Qingnuan said with a faint smile. "I¡¯m being honest. He doesn¡¯t like taking photos, and our rtionship... is a bitplicated. We¡¯re not at the stage for that kind of thing yet."

    "So your marriage is just in name, without any real substance?"

    "Mm."

    "Thank goodness!" Gu Xiaoxiao patted her chest in relief, then picked up her chopsticks and said through gritted teeth, "As long as you live long enough, you can oust an old man. I trust you, Qingnuan!"

    "....."

    Did Gu Xiaoxiao have some kind of major misconception about Fu Yihan?

    Just as Su Qingnuan was debating whether to exin things to her, a sharp pain suddenly shot through her back.

    Su Qingnuan jumped to her feet.

    "Ah! ng¡ª"

    Her back felt a chill, but she didn¡¯t have time to worry about it. She turned around to check.

    A girl had fallen to the ground in a sorry state, an empty cafeteria tray lying beside her.

 Chapter 54: The Sponsored Person

    <h4>Chapter 54: Chapter 54: The Sponsored Person</h4><h4></h4>

    A sharp pain came from her back, but Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t care less. She quickly bent down to help the person up.

    "Are you okay?"

    The person got up, shrugged off Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand, and frowned. "Stay away from me!"

    "..."

    Her hand froze mid-air before slowly retracting.

    "What¡¯s your problem?" Gu Xiaoxiao walked over, positioning herself between Su Qingnuan and the person. "She kindly helped you up, and you behave like this? What¡¯s wrong with you!"

    "... Who asked for her help? She dirtied my hand!"

    The harsh words made Su Qingnuan¡¯s already troubled expression instantly more unpleasant.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s pale face, Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "What did you say? If you¡¯ve got guts, say it again!"

    "Fine, I¡¯ll say it!" The girl stood up, raising her chin to look at Su Qingnuan with contempt. "Afraid to hear the truth about what you¡¯ve done? Isn¡¯t our esteemed ¡¯school flower¡¯ just someone else¡¯s mistress?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯splexion turned pale, herrge ck-and-white eyes growing wide.

    "ssmate! What are you talking about?" Su Qingnuan snapped angrily. "Don¡¯t spread nonsense when you don¡¯t know the facts."

    "Exactly, what do you know anyway? Those pictures you¡¯re gossiping about¡ªit¡¯s her family¡¯s car! Who gave you the right to im she¡¯s being kept as a mistress?! Laughable!" Gu Xiaoxiao wrapped an arm around Su Qingnuan and pointed at the girl, scolding her loudly.

    "Us making stuff up? We all know what Su Qingnuan¡¯s family situation is like. Do you think we¡¯re clueless? When could your family ever afford a car like that? That one¡¯s globally limited edition!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand tightened suddenly.

    She lowered her head and saw the trembling Su Qingnuan, her body shivering uncontrobly. Unable to restrain herself, Gu Xiaoxiao tightened her grip even further.

    "What¡¯s the problem? That¡¯s her husband¡¯s car....."

    Su Qingnuan swiftly covered Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s mouth and dragged her away.

    The two of them practically fled in embarrassment, rushing out of the cafeteria.

    "What are you doing?" Gu Xiaoxiao shook off Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand and red at her unhappily. "Those people are so annoying¡ªwhy don¡¯t you just tell them the truth? At least that would stop their endless gossiping."

    Su Qingnuan looked ghostly pale, forced a helpless smile, and said, "Let it go. If they want to talk, let them talk."

    "Why?" Gu Xiaoxiao stared at her, confused. "Why not tell them your husband is Fu Yihan? Let¡¯s see who dares to doubt you then!"

    "Shh!"

    Su Qingnuan grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s arm and nced around to ensure no one was near. Then she whispered, "Apart from you, no one else must know about this, understand?"

    "Why not? It¡¯s nothing shameful, so why can¡¯t you say it?" Gu Xiaoxiao nced at her slyly, smirking as she said, "Didn¡¯t the school rules say marriage could earn extra credit?"

    "Enough already. Just remember what I said: don¡¯t tell anyone else!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao rolled her eyes and sighed reluctantly. "Fine, I got it."

    "Alright, stop caring about what those people say. The innocent don¡¯t need to justify themselves." Su Qingnuan pushed Gu Xiaoxiao forward lightly. "Let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll take you out for a nice meal¡ªwe don¡¯t need to put up with this nonsense!"

    "You!" Gu Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly. "You¡¯re too timid. What if I wasn¡¯t around? God knows how people would bully you."

    "But you are here." Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "So I¡¯m not scared."

    Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t help butugh and draped an arm around Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulders, striding forward.

    "Good answer! Let¡¯s go. Big Sis has got your back!"

    The two walked out with smiles, as if the earlier tension hadpletely dissolved.

    Time at school always passed by in a whirlwind.

    After the final ss ended, Su Qingnuan said goodbye to Gu Xiaoxiao and left.

    Outside the school gate, as expected, the familiar car stood in the distance. Su Qingnuan walked over.

    "Hey, did you see that? Isn¡¯t that our ¡¯school flower¡¯?"

    "Did you see the photos on the forum? That car looks just like this one."

    "Yeah, I saw it! What kind of car is this? I¡¯ve never even seen the logo."

    "Of course you haven¡¯t! This is....."

    Su Qingnuan quickly opened the car door and climbed in.

    The car moved slowly along the road.

    Night had fallen, but the Gu household was brightly lit.

    Su Qingnuan walked into the house carrying her backpack and spotted the old man sitting in the living room.

    "Grandpa," Su Qingnuan greeted politely.

    "Yuerou is back." Grandpa Fu put down the remote control and gestured to Ah Qi. "Ah Qi, go about your business. I¡¯ll chat with Yuerou for a while."

    Ah Qi bowed and left.

    "Come here, Yuerou. Sit with Grandpa."

    Su Qingnuan smiled and walked over to sit down.

    "Yuerou," Grandpa Fu began warmly, his eyes full of kindness. "Now, as adults, it¡¯s difficult for us to interfere in matters between married couples. But as you know, Yihan¡¯s circumstances are special. He....."

    "Grandpa!"

    A cold voice interrupted him.

    Both turned toward the source of the voice, noticing Fu Yihan by the stairs, sitting in his wheelchair and staring at them.

    "Yihan!" Grandpa Fu lifted his hand with a smile. "Why are you downstairs? Didn¡¯t you say you¡¯d read for a while?"

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows, his expression a mix of amusement and disdain. "If I hadn¡¯te down, what exactly were you nning to say?"

    "....." Grandpa Fu¡¯s smile disappeared, his brows furrowing. "That troublemaker Ah Qi must have tattled again!"

    "Su Yuerou," Fu Yihan called coldly. "Come here."

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly stood up and walked over to Fu Yihan.

    Seeing this, Grandpa Fu also stood up,ughing lightly. "Yihan, I was just chatting with Yuerou. No need to get so worked up."

    "Am I worked up?" Fu Yihan smirked mockingly. "Why would I be? Whether my health worsens is something you¡¯d worry about anyway."

    Grandpa Fu¡¯s expression shifted and he fell silent.

    Fu Yihan withdrew his icy gaze and turned his wheelchair around.

    Su Qingnuan quickly stepped forward, taking over the motion and pushing him toward the elevator.

    The elevator ride was quiet, the atmosphere heavy. Su Qingnuan stole nces at Fu Yihan, noticing his dark mood.

    "What are you looking at?"

    His low voice startled Su Qingnuan, making her lower her head quickly.

    "Nothing..... nothing."

    Fu Yihan gazed at her timid demeanor, his brows furrowing.

    Back in their suite, Su Qingnuan quickly retreated to her room.

    She had barely set down her backpack when Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s text popped up.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: OMG! I¡¯m about to lose it!

    Su Qingnuan: What happened?

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Go look at the forum. Everyone¡¯s talking about your photos. Thements are infuriating¡ªI¡¯m fuming!

    "..."

    Normally disinterested in forum chatter, Su Qingnuan opened the app reluctantly and skimmed through the posts.

    But after clicking on the thread, she exited within two minutes.

 Chapter 55 Cultivating the Body

    <h4>Chapter 55: Chapter 55 Cultivating the Body</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan: It¡¯s a chaotic mess. You¡¯d better avoid these apps in the future.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: You checked too? Don¡¯t bother, thosements are too nasty.

    Su Qingnuan: I know. I clicked in and left immediately. It¡¯s pointless.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Exactly! Totally pointless.

    Su Qingnuan: Sleep early and stop worrying about those things.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Alright.

    After finishing her chat with Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan tossed her phone aside and started organizing her notes from the day.

    The next day, when Su Qingnuan stepped out, she didn¡¯t see A-Qi but instead saw Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan was impably dressed in a suit and tie, sitting upright in his wheelchair.

    Ignoring the lower half of his body, this man was undeniably captivating.

    Noticing Su Qingnuan staring in a trance, Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "Not going to school?"

    Snapping back to reality, Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head.

    "I am..."

    She walked over on her own initiative and began pushing Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair outward.

    "Why is Mr. Fu up so early today?"

    "There are some matters to handle."

    His voice was still as cold and emotionless as ever.

    As they went downstairs, the two were about to head out, only to be stopped midway.

    "Please wait, young madam." The housekeeper from the kitchen, holding a lunchbox, smiled and said, "This is breakfast prepared for you at the old master¡¯s request."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "Grandpa requested this?"

    "Yes." The auntie smiled, nodding. She continued, "We¡¯ve also prepared lunch, which will be delivered to your schoolter. You won¡¯t need to eat in the cafeteria at noon."

    "...Breakfast makes sense, but lunch..." Su Qingnuan forced a smile. "Isn¡¯t it unnecessary to bring it to school? I can actually¡ª"

    "Absolutely not!" The auntie shook her head firmly and said urgently, "The old master insisted that this matter is important. We must make sure the young madam eats well and nourishes herself. There¡¯s no skipping this."

    "...I appreciate Grandpa¡¯s kindness, but this..."

    "Oh, young madam, please don¡¯t argue. We¡¯re just following the old master¡¯s instructions. I need to return to the kitchen now; there¡¯s still a lot to do!"

    With that, the auntie turned and hustled back into the kitchen.

    Staring at the lunchbox in her hands, Su Qingnuan was somewhat dumbfounded.

    "Let¡¯s go," Fu Yihan said in a low voice, offering no opinion on the matter.

    "...Okay."

    The two got into the car, with Su Qingnuan holding the lunchbox tightly while sitting in the corner.

    Fu Yihan nced at her and said, "Take her to school first."

    "Understood."

    Watching the scenery speed past outside the window and seeing the schoole into view, Su Qingnuan suddenly straightened up in her seat.

    "A-Qi, stop up ahead."

    The car came to a halt, and Su Qingnuan unbuckled her seatbelt, smiling. "I¡¯ll get off here. Thanks, A-Qi."

    A-Qi turned around, looking puzzled. "Young madam, there¡¯s still a bit of a distance."

    "I¡¯ll walk the rest of the way," Su Qingnuan replied with a cheerful wave. "Think of it as my morning exercise!"

    "...Alright."

    Watching Su Qingnuan¡¯s lively figure walking away, A-Qi looked back at Fu Yihan for direction.

    Fu Yihan lowered his gaze, holding a newspaper in his hands, his expression as indifferent as ever.

    "Drive."

    A barely audible sigh escaped, and A-Qi replied, "Yes, sir!"

    The car drove off in the opposite direction.

    ...

    Carrying the lunchbox, Su Qingnuan found Gu Xiaoxiao in the ssroom, feeling quite cheerful.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was furiously typing on her phone with an animated expression.

    "Xiaoxiao," Su Qingnuan said with a smile as she sat down, "Guess what delicious treat I brought you?"

    Putting her phone down in a sh, Gu Xiaoxiao turned to her with a wide grin. "What did you bring?"

    "Ta-da!" Su Qingnuan lifted the lunchbox onto the desk. "Take a look!"

    Seeing the beautiful lunchbox appear on the table, Gu Xiaoxiao nced at Su Qingnuan with surprise. "Qingnuan, you even made breakfast look this fancy?"

    "I didn¡¯t buy it!" Su Qingnuan said, amused. "The housekeeper prepared it for me."

    "Your housekeeper?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked in shock. "Weren¡¯t they always cold and distant before? How do they have the time to make you breakfast now?"

    Lowering her voice, Su Qingnuan chuckled. "Not the old housekeeper. It¡¯s the one from my current home."

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze for a moment, then nodded in understanding.

    "That¡¯s awesome! Their food must be incredible!"

    With that, she eagerly reached out to open the lunchbox.

    Watching Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s excited expression, Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile gradually widened.

    After the two finished breakfast, it was time for ss.

    During ss, Su Qingnuan noticed many people¡¯s gazes drifting in her direction.

    Pretending not to notice, she continued to focus on the lecture attentively.

    When the ss ended, Su Qingnuan hurriedly urged Gu Xiaoxiao to pack up and leave the ssroom.

    "Why are you in such a rush?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked helplessly. "The next ss isn¡¯t for a while. Want to rest in my dorm for a bit?"

    "Sure."

    Following Gu Xiaoxiao to the dorm, Su Qingnuan entered the four-person room. Due to certain circumstances, two of the girls had moved out during their sophomore year, leaving just Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao.

    However, this semester, Su Qingnuan had also moved out, leaving Gu Xiaoxiao alone in the dorm.

    Looking at the clean and tidy room, Su Qingnuan chuckled softly. "Are my things still on my bed?"

    "Yep, they¡¯re still there. Lay them out, and you can even take a nap."

    "Alright."

    Climbing onto the bed, Su Qingnuan began organizing the piled-up bedding.

    After spending quite a while arranging it, a smile couldn¡¯t help but bloom on her lips.

    "I really miss living on campus."

    Hearing this, Gu Xiaoxiao poked her head out of the bathroom, smiling. "If you miss it,e back! I¡¯ve been living alone in the dorm, and it¡¯s honestly kind of creepy!"

    Su Qingnuan smiled but didn¡¯t respond, as it wasn¡¯t something she could decide on her own.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The sudden sound of knocking startled both girls.

    "Someone¡¯s at the door," Su Qingnuan said.

    Gu Xiaoxiao raised her soapy hands helplessly. "Can you get it for me?"

    "...Fine."

    Opening the door, Su Qingnuan froze for a moment when she saw who was standing outside.

    "Young madam," the auntie said with a smile, lifting the lunchbox in her hand. "I brought you your lunch."

    Several students passing through the hallway nced over curiously.

    Quickly pulling the auntie inside, Su Qingnuan whispered, "Auntie, why did you really bring it? I was fine eating something simple for lunch."

    "The old master insisted. How could we not follow his orders?"

    Setting the lunchbox down on the table, the auntie grinned. "I heard from A-Qi that you¡¯re with your ssmate, so we prepared a portion for two."

    "What¡¯s that amazing smell?"

    The bathroom door opened, and Gu Xiaoxiao came out with her arms crossed.

    Stopping in her tracks, her gaze shifted to the auntie, then back to Su Qingnuan, confusion evident.

    Sighing, Su Qingnuan exined, "Xiaoxiao, this is the same auntie who prepared breakfast for us this morning."

    "Ah! So it¡¯s you!" Gu Xiaoxiao eximed warmly. "Hello, Auntie!"

 Chapter 56 Attention from the School Authorities

    <h4>Chapter 56: Chapter 56 Attention from the School Authorities</h4><h4></h4>

    Gu Xiaoxiao walked over enthusiastically and greeted Auntie.

    Auntie chuckled, "You must be our Young Madam¡¯s ssmate, right? Look at that face, truly beautiful."

    "Oh my! Auntie, you really know how to tter! You¡¯re making me float with joy!" Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t help but cover her cheeks.

    "Auntie is just telling the truth!" She opened the food box and smiled, "I made lunch and brought it over, enough for two servings. ssmate, don¡¯t be shy!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze for a moment and looked toward Su Qingnuan.

    Seeing Auntie already setting out the food, Su Qingnuan said helplessly, "Since Auntie brought it, just eat."

    Gu Xiaoxiao sat down without hesitation.

    After the two finished eating, Auntie tidied up the tableware and took the morning¡¯s food box with her.

    "I must say, Qingnuan, your inws treat you way too well!"

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly, looking quite resigned.

    What is the old man thinking? Why make things soplicated?

    What Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t expect was that this special treatment would continue indefinitely.

    After two or three days of finding herself anywhere and inevitably eating lunch delivered by Auntie, Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t take it anymore.

    "I mean, yeah, the food is great, but if we keep eating like this every day, we¡¯re going to gain ten pounds in no time!"

    Su Qingnuan nced at her and smiled, "Weren¡¯t you pretty happy about this when you first found out?"

    "Well, I was happy because I thought there¡¯d be delicious food!"

    "Don¡¯t you want good food anymore?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao waved her hands urgently, "For the sake of freedom, I¡¯ll sacrifice them both!"

    Smiling faintly and lowering her gaze, Su Qingnuan sighed softly, "I¡¯d like to know what I can do to make the old man give up too."

    That day, after finishing her ss, Su Qingnuan stayed in the ssroom waiting for Auntie to show up.

    Unexpectedly, Auntie didn¡¯t appear; instead, the department head called.

    After hanging up the call, Su Qingnuan looked at Gu Xiaoxiao quizzically, "The department head is asking me to go to his office."

    "Huh?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s expression mirrored her confusion, "What did you do?"

    "I don¡¯t think so?" Su Qingnuan said with augh, "I¡¯m with you every day¡ªwhatever I do, wouldn¡¯t you know it?"

    "True enough."

    Su Qingnuan stood up and smiled, "Alright, I¡¯ll go and check. If Auntie shows up, keep an eye out for me."

    "Ah... Got it."

    The department head¡¯s office was on the seventh floor. After making her way up, Su Qingnuan found several people standing outside the office.

    They were lined up, as if waiting for something.

    "ssmate?" Su Qingnuan approached the end of the line and asked softly, "Sorry, could I ask what this is for?"

    "It¡¯s almost graduation, so people are here to resolve pending disciplinary issues."

    "...Alright then."

    As a top student, Su Qingnuan had no disciplinary issues, so why had the department head summoned her?

    Waiting at the back of the line, Su Qingnuan began specting wildly.

    Suddenly, the department head appeared ahead.

    Frowning, he looked toward the end of the line and said, "Su Qingnuan, what are you doing back there? Come in!"

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan hurried over and followed the department head into the office.

    She closed the door and stood properly in front of his desk.

    "Department Head, may I ask why you called me here?"

    Director Li¡¯s gaze swept over Su Qingnuan and lingered for a while before he spoke, "You¡¯ve heard the rumors floating around among the students recently, haven¡¯t you?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded.

    "The school is a ce of learning, not a yground for these sorts of things. The matter has already caused quite a stir and to protect the school¡¯s reputation, the higher-ups have instructed that it must be suppressed." Director Li¡¯s tone was serious, and his eyes never rxed as they fixed on Su Qingnuan.

    "Department Head," Su Qingnuan furrowed her brow and lowered her head, "What kind of resolution does the school want?"

    Director Li tapped the table and said sternly, "What¡¯s the story behind that photo? Su Qingnuan, do you really have the sort of unrestrained private life that the rumors im? Or can you offer us a reasonable exnation?"

    Su Qingnuan clenched her teeth and stayed silent.

    If this matter were exposed publicly, everyone would know that Su Qingnuan, not Su Yuerou, was married to Fu Yihan¡ªand their secret would be out.

    "...Department Head, it¡¯s my family¡¯s car. I¡¯m not like what the rumors portray." Su Qingnuan replied in a low voice.

    "Your family¡¯s car?" Director Li looked at her skeptically, "But informed sources say this car is globally limited, and none of the buyers have the surname Su."

    "..."

    Clenching her teeth as her mind raced, Su Qingnuan scrambled for a way to deflect the situation.

    But Director Li wasn¡¯t one to be caught off guard¡ªhe always seized the upper hand.

    "Su Qingnuan, you are one of our outstanding students, and the teachers have high expectations of you. None of us want to see situations like this arise. If there truly are difficulties in your family, you are free to¡ª"

    "Director!" Su Qingnuan interrupted hurriedly, sighing in frustration, "The rumors really aren¡¯t true."

    "Then what¡¯s the truth?" Director Li fixed her with a hopeful stare. "Exin everything clearly; the school won¡¯t trouble you further. You can just focus on your studies."

    "..."

    After a long silence, Su Qingnuan finally said, "I can¡¯t say."

    "..."

    The stalematested for a long time until Director Li ultimately conceded.

    "Su Qingnuan, I need to remind you¡ªif your conduct fails review, your diploma may not be granted. Despite your excellent grades, strong character must also be considered by the teachers for your graduation."

    "..."

    Walking out of the office, Su Qingnuan hung her head in dejection.

    "Hey! You¡¯re back!"

    Seeing Su Qingnuan return, Gu Xiaoxiao waved with a smile, "Qingnuan! Come over here¡ªAuntie brought lunch again."

    Su Qingnuan forced a smile, walked over, and sat down.

    Noticing herck of energy, Gu Xiaoxiao asked while eating, "What did the department head talk to you about?"

    Pausing mid-bite, Su Qingnuan shook her head and smiled. "Nothing much, just some academic matters."

    "What¡¯s there to even discuss? You¡¯re top of the ss in every subject¡ªyou shouldn¡¯t have any problems graduating!"

    "..." Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile and nodded, saying nothing more, focusing instead on eating quietly.

    After finishing, Auntie left after collecting the dishes, and Su Qingnuan sat on a bench, staring nkly at her phone.

    If she wanted her diploma, she had to prove her innocence.

    Proving her innocence meant revealing the truth, but...

    No matter the choice, none of them seemed right!

    Su Qingnuan let out a soft sigh, tilting her head to gaze at the sky.

    The azure sky and a lone white cloud drifted by, apanied by a gentle breeze caressing her face. Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help closing her eyes.

    "Qingnuan."

    Su Qingnuan froze and turned her head to look.

 Chapter 57 Questioning

    <h4>Chapter 57: Chapter 57 Questioning</h4><h4></h4>

    The figure approached against the light, like a hunter emerging from darkness, step by step, closing in on their prey.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and stood up.

    "Qingnuan." His voice softened, sounding incredibly pleasing to the ear.

    However, this familiar voice, when heard by Su Qingnuan, did not carry the same charm.

    "Why are you here?" Su Qingnuan frowned, looking at the person, her expression far from happy.

    Shen Lin¡¯an paused, his lips maintaining a smile. "What¡¯s wrong? Are you not happy to see me here?"

    Of course not!

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows and turned away.

    "This is a school. Why are you here without reason?"

    The cold, hard tone was nothing like the bright-eyed warmth she once greeted him with.

    Suppressing the difort in his heart, Shen Lin¡¯an chuckled faintly, "Qingnuan, I¡¯m here just to see you."

    "See me?" Su Qingnuan sneered, "Tough at me, perhaps? That day at the Su family¡¯s house, I believe we made things clear."

    .....

    Shen Lin¡¯an clenched his fists tightly, staring at Su Qingnuan for a long moment.

    Su Qingnuan refused to back down, meeting his gaze with a glimmer of determination in her eyes.

    After a while, his fists loosened, and Shen Lin¡¯an smiled faintly, "I simply came to see you. You don¡¯t need to be so defensive."

    Defensive? How could she not be?

    A man who chose to abandon her, who said such cruel words¡ªhow could Su Qingnuan not be cautious?

    Her lips curled with a mocking smile that remained unshaken.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an, the words you uttered back then still ring in my ears, and now you¡¯re telling me not to be on guard?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression shifted abruptly.

    Su Qingnuan cast him a nce, turned around, and said, "I have ss, I¡¯m leaving."

    "Qingnuan!"

    He reached out to stop her, but Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t look pleased at all.

    "Do you still have something to say?" she asked.

    "Please sit down. I truly have something to discuss with you."

    Under Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s guidance, Su Qingnuan sat down but maintained a consistently cold demeanor.

    "Whatever it is, say it quickly."

    Shen Lin¡¯an smiled, leaning in close to her.

    "Qingnuan, we grew up together. After all these years, I think I understand you fairly well."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, quietly listening withoutmenting.

    "Even now, I can empathize with your difficulties. But who is Fu Yihan, really? He¡¯s nothing but a ruthless and wicked man. Staying with the Fu family is like being trapped in a den of wolves."

    Suddenly, he reached out, gripping Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm desperately. "I¡¯m figuring out a way to get you out of there. Would that be okay?"

    "Get me out?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s heartbeat quickened as she turned to look at Shen Lin¡¯an.

    His gaze was sincere, his eyes fixed on her earnestly¡ªwith even a trace of hope.

    "You..."

    "I know you still have feelings for me!" Shen Lin¡¯an pulled Su Qingnuan by her shoulders, turning her to face him, his smile unwavering. "Let me take you away from the Fu family, and we can run off together, alright?"

    The flicker of madness and obsession in his eyes rendered Su Qingnuan momentarily stunned.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an?" Su Qingnuan pushed his hands away, speaking calmly, "You should go back."

    Not even mentioning Shen family¡¯s standing¡ªhow would he take her away?

    Judging by his current state, it was obvious he was not thinking clearly.

    "Qingnuan!"

    Her hands were seized once more as Shen Lin¡¯an pulled her into his arms, almost frantically.

    "I know I went too far before. I won¡¯t say such things anymore. Please,e with me, alright?"

    .....

    She forcefully shoved the crazed Shen Lin¡¯an away, raising her voice.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an! You still don¡¯t understand the situation, do you?" Su Qingnuan said sharply. "Do you know why I married into the Fu family? It wasn¡¯t out of my own choice! Instead of standing here saying useless nonsense to me, why don¡¯t you go ask Su Yuerou? Find out how she managed to send me off to get married!"

    "What... What do you mean?" Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s eyes widened as he stared at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan brushed off his hand, picked up her backpack, and stood.

    "I¡¯ve told you everything I need to. If you want to know more, go ask your new girlfriend."

    With that, Su Qingnuan ran off.

    After covering some distance, she looked back to see that he hadn¡¯t followed her. Su Qingnuan held her chest, leaning against a wall and gasping softly.

    She hadn¡¯t expected him to show up at school.

    Memories of the past surged relentlessly.

    The "Lin¡¯an brother" who had once doted on her was gone.

    Su Qingnuan suddenly started shaking her head, only stopping when she felt dizzy.

    Smoothing out her hair, she began walking forward.

    ...

    "Qingnuan, where did you just go?" Gu Xiaoxiao ran over,ining, "I¡¯ve been waiting in the ssroom for you forever."

    "It¡¯s nothing," Su Qingnuan replied helplessly. "I was talking in the principal¡¯s office for a while."

    "Talking about what? For so long that your food¡¯s gone cold."

    She held a lunchbox, which looked heavy.

    "I¡¯m not really hungry." Su Qingnuan took the lunchbox and smiled, "Let¡¯s go rest for a bit since sses don¡¯t start until the afternoon."

    "Alright, let¡¯s go."

    The two walked slowly back to the dormitory.

    Passing by the road she had just left, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help turning her head to look.

    "What are you looking at?"

    Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze and chuckled lightly. "It¡¯s... it¡¯s nothing."

    At a moment like this, she actually still held onto hope. Howughable.

    After a brief midday nap in the dorm, they returned to ss as usual.

    When thest ss ended, Su Qingnuan carried her lunchbox and bid Gu Xiaoxiao goodbye.

    At the school gate, she saw a familiar car and heard the murmuring discussions again.

    Su Qingnuan shielded her face and walked over.

    Opening the rear car door, she found someone already inside.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked with surprise. "Why are you..."

    Realizing it was his car, Su Qingnuan quickly stopped, smiled slightly, and said, "Thank you for your trouble."

    With that, she got in.

    Fu Yihan toyed with his phone, ignoring herpletely.

    Carefully cing the lunchbox aside, Su Qingnuan smiled faintly, "Mr. Fu, there¡¯s something I¡¯d like to discuss with you."

    "Say it."

    "Well... Actually, I think riding my bike to school works pretty well on my own. There¡¯s no need for Ah Qi to drive me."

    When she finished speaking, Su Qingnuan twisted the hem of her shirt nervously and looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes from his phone, nced at her, and asked indifferently, "Why?"

    "It¡¯s... it¡¯s nothing really..." Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze and murmured, "I just think it¡¯s a bit too conspicuous. It doesn¡¯t feel appropriate to stand out so much at school... So I thought... maybe I could be just like all the other students."

    Setting his phone aside, Fu Yihan looked at her with a smirk. "I see your point. What you mean is that we¡¯re being too wasteful?"

    "That¡¯s not what I meant!" Su Qingnuan said anxiously. "It¡¯s just..."

    She fumbled to find the right words, opening her mouth but saying nothing.

 Chapter 58: Major Supplement

    <h4>Chapter 58: Chapter 58: Major Supplement</h4><h4></h4>

    Watching her flustered and anxious, yet unable to utter a single word, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips lifted slightly as he turned his gaze out the window.

    "Your identity has always set you apart from ordinary students."

    His voice, cool and distant, carried an ethereal quality as though it came from the edge of the sky.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan clutched the hem of her clothes tightly, speaking cautiously, "No matter what my identity is, from the moment I entered the school, I have only been its student. So..."

    She suddenly turned around, looking at Fu Yihan with utmost seriousness, and said solemnly, "I hope Mr. Fu can understand."

    "Ha!" Fu Yihan tilted his head, a peculiar emotion flickering in the depths of his cold, detached eyes. "You think too highly of me, don¡¯t you?"

    Su Qingnuan froze momentarily, unable to respond.

    Seeing her fall silent, Fu Yihan leaned slightly in her direction. "Have you not heard the rumors about Fu Yihan before?"

    "...What rumors?" Su Qingnuan feigned ignorance.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile. "A man with a heart of stone, cold as a viper."

    "..." Su Qingnuan shifted back slightly, offering a faint smile. "Actually, you don¡¯t really seem..."

    "I do!" Fu Yihan interrupted her, his eyes sharp and icy. "This is exactly who I am."

    "..."

    Confronted with Su Qingnuan¡¯s stiff expression, Fu Yihan straightened his posture and, with a nk face, said, "So don¡¯t bring up the word ¡¯understand¡¯ with me anymore. And don¡¯t make requests of me."

    "...Got it."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, staring at her own hands.

    Nervousness had caused her to grip her clothing so tightly that her knuckles had turned white.

    She was simply too na?ve. Knowing full well that something was impossible, yet still attempting it...

    "You¡¯re now the Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife."

    The sudden voice made Su Qingnuan lift her head.

    Fu Yihan stared straight ahead with an impassive expression. "Handle these small matters yourself."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.

    Noticing her gaze, Fu Yihan furrowed his brows slightly. "What are you looking at me for? Do your own thing."

    "...Okay."

    Although his attitude was harsh, he had granted his approval.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t hide her joy, lowering her head with a radiant smile.

    When the car stopped in front of the vi, Su Qingnuan quickly got out, prepared the wheelchair, and waited by the car.

    Fu Yihan nced at her but said nothing.

    Pushing Fu Yihan into the house, Su Qingnuan softly asked, "Mr. Fu, would you like to go straight upstairs or rest in the living room for a bit?"

    "..." Fu Yihan silently looked at Ah Qi.

    "Eldest Young Madam." Ah Qi grabbed the wheelchair handles from Su Qingnuan¡¯s hands, his expression cold. "Let me handle it."

    "..."

    As Ah Qi pushed Fu Yihan to the study, Su Qingnuan hesitated to follow and eventually carried her schoolbag back to her room.

    Her phone suddenly vibrated violently.

    After ncing at the screen, Su Qingnuan froze.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Qingnuan! There¡¯s an ITpetition at school! Do you want to participate? I heard the winners can directly intern at Fu Ran Company!

    Fu Ran?

    Isn¡¯t that Fu Yihan¡¯spany?

    Pulling out the business card from her bag, she confirmed it was indeed thatpany.

    Although Fu Yihan had casually told her she could intern there before, without proper legitimacy, interning at a top-ten ITpany would raise too many questions.

    Now the opportunity hade. If she could win thispetition, she could enter thepany with full legitimacy.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curved upward, and she quickly replied to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Su Qingnuan: I¡¯m in!

    The reply speed from the other side was just as quick.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: I knew you¡¯d want to join, so I already signed you up. You¡¯re wee!

    Su Qingnuan: Thanks! I¡¯ll treat you to dinner tomorrow!

    Gu Xiaoxiao: I¡¯ll remember that! See you tomorrow!

    Putting away her phone, Su Qingnuan took out relevant books and prepared to do some pre-study. She never went into a battle unprepared.

    As she stared at the rows of ck-and-white data, her vision blurred momentarily before quickly returning to normal.

    "That¡¯s odd..."

    She rubbed her nose, feeling a sticky, warm sensation.

    Looking up, she realized her fingertip, which had just touched her nose, was stained bright red.

    "Drip¡ª"

    Looking down, a small red drop had already stained the clean, white paper.

    Nosebleed...

    She immediately tilted her head back, grabbing tissues as she walked out of the room.

    Just as she opened the door, she saw Fu Yihan and Ah Qi approaching her.

    Seeing her holding her nose and looking up at the ceiling, Fu Yihan frowned. "What happened?"

    "...Nosebleed..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s voice trembled with a hint of tears, her deer-like eyes looking pitifully at Fu Yihan.

    "..." Fu Yihan pressed his hand to his forehead, sighing. "Ah Qi, go call Auntie up."

    "Understood."

    Ah Qi quickly ran off.

    Fu Yihan nced at her and said, "Go sit over there, lean your head against the sofa, and keep looking at the ceiling."

    Obediently walking back, Su Qingnuan sat on the sofa, covering her nose as the warm blood continued to flow. She couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly. "Mr. Fu, why am I bleeding so much?"

    "If you ask me, who should I ask?" Fu Yihan replied coldly.

    Feeling quite dejected, Su Qingnuan dared not speak further and fell silent.

    After a long while, footsteps could be heard on the stairs. Soon, Ah Qi returned with someone in tow.

    "Eldest Young Master, the doctor is here."

    "Come in."

    The woman carrying a medical kit entered and skillfully cleaned Su Qingnuan¡¯s nosebleed before applying some medication.

    "Auntie, why am I having a nosebleed?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    She had always been physically delicate. A little carelessness would send her to the hospital for days, so she needed to find out the reason.

    "It¡¯s nothing." The woman smiled gently. "You¡¯ve just been eating too well, too richly."

    "..."

    Not daring to speak further, Su Qingnuan quietly let her finish tending to the nosebleed.

    By dinner, her nose had finally stopped bleeding, but her meal consisted only of in vegetable porridge.

    "Why is she eating so ndly?" The old master frowned. "Look how skinny you are! You should eat more!"

    He then motioned for someone to bring more food for Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shielded her bowl with her body, panicked. "Grandfather! This is enough for me, really!"

    "Nonsense! If someone outside saw how thin you are, they¡¯d assume we mistreat you!"

    "Grandfather, there¡¯s no need, really..."

    "Go ahead, serve her more!"

    As the two argued back and forth, Fu Yihan furrowed his eyebrows and set down his chopsticks.

    "Tap¡ª"

    The crisp sound brought silence to the table.

    "Grandfather." Fu Yihan turned and pointed to Su Qingnuan¡¯s nose. "See that? Ate too richly, and now she¡¯s got a nosebleed."

    "...A nosebleed?" The old master stood in shock, inspecting her nose.

    "Hah?" Fu Yixing chuckled. "So that¡¯s what they call ¡¯overindulgence is harmful,¡¯ right?"

    Su Qingnuan quickly covered her nose, forcing a small smile. "It¡¯s fine. Two days of lighter meals, and I¡¯ll be good."

    "Then just eat lighter for now." The old master relented.

    Still, while others dined on sumptuous dishes, she sat there with her in porridge¡ªtruly pitiful.

 Chapter 59: Prank

    <h4>Chapter 59: Chapter 59: Prank</h4><h4></h4>

    After dinner, Su Qingnuan ran upstairs to rest and recover, without thinking about anything, andid down.

    On the first day of the month, when she went to school, there was no breakfast. Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief.

    Although it felt a little sad saying this, Su Qingnuan really had had enough.

    Not only was there no breakfast, but there was also no car to pick her up.

    Su Qingnuan hailed a cab and made her way to school.

    ...

    Seeing Su Qingnuan walk into the ssroom without carrying a lunch box, Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t help but p her hands.

    "Oh my God!" Gu Xiaoxiao eximed with delight, "I¡¯ve been wondering how you¡¯d treat me to a meal today, and how we¡¯d tackle all the food your aunt brought."

    Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly, "Don¡¯t even mention it, those things were so rich and nourishing. Eating too much of it gave me a nosebleedst night."

    "A nosebleed?" Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her in shock. "Are you okay?"

    "I¡¯m fine, it was just too much heat." Su Qingnuan sat down and sighed softly, "Show me the sign-up form for thatpetition you mentioned yesterday."

    "Huh?" Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled, "I already handed it in. By now, it¡¯s probably been reviewed."

    "That fast?"

    "There were so many applicants. You wouldn¡¯t believe howpetitive it was to snag a spot on that form."

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned.

    "Such high demand?"

    "Of course! For people in our major, who wouldn¡¯t want a chance to intern at thatpany?"

    At the mention of this, Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly looked crestfallen.

    "You¡¯re recognized as exceptionally gifted by everyone, but I have no idea what kind of ranking I¡¯ll get."

    Su Qingnuan gave a resigned smile. "There¡¯s always someone better out there. Thepetition hasn¡¯t even started yet¡ªhow do you know who will be the best?"

    "Among people in our major, is there anyone who doesn¡¯t know you? Campus beauty and top student¡ªyou could easily get by on your looks, but no, you insist on relying on your actual talents."

    "Alright, alright." Su Qingnuanughed. "Instead of wasting time bantering with me here, you might as well spend some extra time studying. You could surprise everyone with your results."

    "Forget it, I don¡¯t believe inst-minute cramming," Gu Xiaoxiao tilted her head and nced at the teacher walking into the ssroom, tapping on her desk. "ss time is serious business."

    After finishing the morning sses, both of them received a text asking them to head up to theputerb upstairs for emergency training.

    "Who do you think the instructor for the training will be?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered.

    "No idea." ncing toward the front of the ssroom, Su Qingnuan chuckled softly, "Whoever it is, we just need to focus on doing our part."

    "Your mindset is truly forged from countless trials."

    Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile. "What else could I do?"

    "Nothing really," Gu Xiaoxiao smiled lightly. "Maintaining this attitude is definitely a good thing."

    Su Qingnuan shot her a sidelong nce, half-smiling, "Are you teasing me or being sincere?"

    "I¡¯m being sincere, obviously. Why would I tease you, right?"

    Seeing the earnest look in her eyes, Su Qingnuan reluctantly nodded, "I¡¯ll pretend I didn¡¯t hear that."

    "Hey! Here theye! I heard it¡¯s the new teacher."

    "And he¡¯s pretty handsome!"

    "Howe we¡¯ve never seen this teacher before?"

    Hearing the chatter, Su Qingnuan looked up, and the smile on her lips froze instantly.

    How could it be him...

    Shen Lin¡¯an stood at the podium, his face carrying a light smile as he scanned the students below. In a gentle tone, he announced, "Hello everyone, starting today, I¡¯ll be your temporary instructor. My name is Shen Lin¡¯an."

    "Teacher, you¡¯re so handsome!" A not-so-quiet voice broke out, causing an uproar in the ssroom.

    "Qingnuan..." Gu Xiaoxiao nced at her with concern and whispered, "Isn¡¯t that..."

    "It¡¯s nothing." Su Qingnuan lowered her head, fiddling with something in her hands, "He¡¯s just our teacher for now."

    "Oh, okay..."

    Gu Xiaoxiao flitted her gaze between the two of them but ended up saying nothing.

    From the moment Shen Lin¡¯an entered the ssroom, he hadn¡¯t deliberately looked at Su Qingnuan.

    He taught attentively, patiently answering students¡¯ questions.

    Overall, the lesson was productive and insightful.

    "Alright, ssmates, that¡¯s all for today¡¯s session." Shen Lin¡¯an tidied up his teaching materials and smiled at the students below.

    As soon as he finished speaking, a student walked up with their textbook.

    "Teacher Shen, could you exin this section to me? I didn¡¯t fully understand it earlier."

    "Of course." Shen Lin¡¯an kept his polite smile intact.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand and slipped out through the back door.

    "Hey?" Gu Xiaoxiao murmured softly, "Aren¡¯t you going to say hi?"

    "What¡¯s there to say?" Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "Let¡¯s go. I¡¯m not in the mood to talk to him right now."

    "Fair enough. You two were a couple before, but now that you¡¯re married, meeting again must feel awkward."

    "..." Su Qingnuan frowned and shot her a stern re, "If you don¡¯t say anything, nobody will assume you¡¯re mute."

    "....."

    The two of them hurried down the stairs, leaving through the back door.

    Once they reached the ground floor, Su Qingnuan finally let go of Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand and began walking slowly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nced back and chuckled, "He didn¡¯t follow us."

    "He won¡¯t chase after us." Su Qingnuan said serenely, "That¡¯s not the kind of person he is. Coming here to teach is just the first step of his n. What he¡¯ll do next is his real purpose."

    Over the years, Su Qingnuan¡¯s understanding of Shen Lin¡¯an was neither minimal nor extensive.

    She could guess his initial motives fairly well.

    What she said to him yesterday must have yed a part, which was probably why he showed up here today.

    So, he knew everything?

    "Qingnuan?" Gu Xiaoxiao gently nudged Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm and murmured, "I think your guess was wrong!"

    "What?" Su Qingnuan looked at her, confused.

    Gu Xiaoxiao pointed behind them with a helpless expression. "Your past debt ising."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan turned around and saw Shen Lin¡¯an walking toward them. He was supposed to be upstairs answering students¡¯ questions, but now he was approaching them.

    Carrying teaching materials and wearing sses, he looked every bit the image of a teacher, yet people kept turning their heads to look at him.

    "Qingnuan." Shen Lin¡¯an smiled, "Let¡¯s have lunch together?"

    "No thanks." Su Qingnuan declined with a nk expression, "I already have ns."

    Hearing this, Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s gaze shifted to Gu Xiaoxiao, and he smiled faintly, "I don¡¯t mind sharing lunch with another beautifuldy."

    "....." Gu Xiaoxiao awkwardly retreated behind Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan nced at him and replied coolly, "It¡¯s not her¡ªit¡¯s Fu Yihan."

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression instantly changed. His brows furrowed as he stared at her.

    Su Qingnuan adjusted her backpack and turned around, "Mr. Shen, you¡¯re a teacher now, and I¡¯m a student. Please respect our roles."

    "Qingnuan!" Shen Lin¡¯an grabbed her wrist, preventing her from leaving, "Listen to me, I¡¯ve already uncovered the truth about everything. I misunderstood you before, and I think..."

    "Who¡¯s that? Isn¡¯t she the campus beauty? But who is he? Never seen him before!"

    "Could it be the guy with the luxury car?"

    "No way. He doesn¡¯t look like it, judging by his clothes..."

    "..."

 Chapter 60 Itéˆ¥æªš All Your Fault

    <h4>Chapter 60: Chapter 60 It¡¯s All Your Fault</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan frowned and nced at his hand.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an, let go."

    Shen Lin¡¯an chuckled lightly but didn¡¯t loosen his grip, instead pulling her closer.

    "Qingnuan, it¡¯s just a meal, no need to be so tense."

    As more and more eyes turned their way, Su Qingnuan silently pushed Shen Lin¡¯an away.

    "Let¡¯s go."

    Shen Lin¡¯an was overjoyed and quickly released her hand, leading the way forward.

    "I¡¯ve already reserved a private room. The car is at the school gate, let¡¯s head over."

    ncing at Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan calmly said, "We have ss this afternoon, not much time."

    "I understand." Shen Lin¡¯an smiled lightly, "Rest assured, I¡¯ll have you back before your ss starts."

    "Hmm."

    Linking arms with Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan walked ahead.

    Looking back at the person following them, Gu Xiaoxiao whispered, "Are we really going?"

    "What else to do?" Su Qingnuan forced a smile, "Continuing to stalemate at school, who knows what nasty things they¡¯d say again."

    "...True."

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s car was parked at the back gate, drawing a fair amount of attention as they walked over.

    Finally getting into the car, Su Qingnuan reminded, "Watch the time."

    "Got it." Shen Lin¡¯an chuckled lightly, "Don¡¯t you trust me?"

    "....."

    Lost for words, Su Qingnuan turned to look out of the window.

    Sitting awkwardly on the other side, Gu Xiaoxiao didn¡¯t dare to say anything.

    The car drove for quite a while before stopping.

    Looking at the bustling streets outside, Su Qingnuan frowned, "Did we have toe this far?"

    "I booked a private room here, let¡¯s go."

    Shen Lin¡¯an was the first to get out, opening the door and smiling warmly at the both of them.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nced at Su Qingnuan and said with a gentle smile, "We¡¯re already here, let¡¯s just go in."

    ".....Hmm."

    The two followed Shen Lin¡¯an into the restaurant.

    The opulent decor was a clear sign of the hefty price tag.

    "Qingnuan, sit here." Shen Lin¡¯an pulled out a chair, smiling as he spoke.

    Without thinking much, Su Qingnuan walked over and sat down.

    Then Shen Lin¡¯an pulled out another chair, gesturing for Gu Xiaoxiao to sit.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded awkwardly.

    From ordering to serving, Shen Lin¡¯an always disyed his mature charm, gentle and refined, never giving any unpleasant impression.

    If it weren¡¯t for that conversation, Su Qingnuan might have been deceived again.

    Full and satisfied, Su Qingnuan stood up.

    "Mr. Shen, we should be heading back."

    Shen Lin¡¯an quickly followed suit, "I¡¯ll take you back."

    "No need, if you have other things to attend to, please go ahead, we can get back ourselves."

    With that, Su Qingnuan pulled Gu Xiaoxiao to leave.

    "Hey! Qingnuan!" Shen Lin¡¯an jogged after them, "Wait, I still have something to say."

    Su Qingnuan had already opened the door, ready to leave.

    Suddenly, a figure dashed out, bumping into Su Qingnuan.

    Unprepared, Su Qingnuan stumbled backward.

    Gu Xiaoxiao quickly supported Su Qingnuan, preventing her from falling.

    Standing upright, Su Qingnuan looked up at the person who had bumped into her.

    "You..." Su Qingnuan was stunned, her eyes flickering with confusion.

    Su Yuerou stood at the door, ring at her viciously.

    "So you two are really together!"

    Su Qingnuan frowned and pulled Gu Xiaoxiao, intending to leave.

    "Wait!" Su Yuerou grabbed Su Qingnuan, urgently saying, "Don¡¯t think you can leave! Caught you this time, didn¡¯t I? Not even being honest after getting married? Still trying to seduce my Brother Lin¡¯an?"

    "Su Yuerou!" Shen Lin¡¯an stepped out, squeezing between the two and sternly looking at Su Yuerou, "Don¡¯t go too far. Qingnuan and I were just having a meal."

    "A meal? A meal requiring this much travel?" Su Yuerou looked at Shen Lin¡¯an, seriously asking, "Why didn¡¯t you answer my calls? Brother Lin¡¯an, would you rather believe this woman full of lies over me and mother?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an frowned and looked at Su Qingnuan, "Qingnuan, take your friend and go first."

    With a cold nce at him, Su Qingnuan pulled Gu Xiaoxiao away.

    "Hey!" Su Yuerou reached out to grab Su Qingnuan, "You¡¯re not going anywhere!"

    "Su Yuerou!" Shen Lin¡¯an stopped Su Yuerou, angrily saying, "Do you know what you¡¯re doing right now?"

    "Of course, I know! Why wouldn¡¯t I?" Su Yuerou gritted her teeth, "I¡¯m catching you two in the act!"

    "..."

    Pushing Su Yuerou away, Shen Lin¡¯an blocked the doorway, looking at her seriously.

    "Brother Lin¡¯an!" Su Yuerou¡¯s eyes flickered with dissatisfaction, ring at Shen Lin¡¯an.

    "Su Yuerou, I made things very clear to you yesterday. You know in your heart whose right and wrong it is. Stoping to me, understand?"

    "Brother Lin¡¯an..." A sh of surprise crossed Su Yuerou¡¯s face. She quickly grabbed Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s hand and urgently asked, "Why do you believe her and not us? We are clearly..."

    "Clearly what? Innocent?" Shen Lin¡¯an sneered. "Do you know that in social circles, everyone thinks it was Su Yuerou who married Fu Yihan? If I hadn¡¯t inquired, I wouldn¡¯t have known when Qingnuan changed her name to Su Yuerou."

    Su Yuerou widened her eyes, momentarily speechless.

    Shaking off Su Yuerou¡¯s hand, Shen Lin¡¯an tidied his rumpled sleeves.

    "I¡¯ve made myself very clear, Su Yuerou. If you still have any dignity, don¡¯te looking for me anymore, and I won¡¯t answer your calls either."

    With that, he turned and left.

    Watching the determined back walking away, Su Yuerou clenched her fists tightly.

    Su Qingnuan, it¡¯s always you! Always you!

    You¡¯ve clearly been married! Why do you still have to take Shen Lin¡¯an away from me?

    Her eyes turned red, suffused with a gloomy shade.

    ...

    "That was Su Yuerou? Your sister?"

    Leaning against the chair, Su Qingnuan nodded helplessly.

    "Really, huh...." Gu Xiaoxiao sized up Su Qingnuan, sighing, "But honestly, you sisters don¡¯t look alike at all."

    "Indeed, not much alike."

    If they were alike, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t be so mild-mannered.

    "But you guys....."

    "Enough." Interrupting Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan said sternly, "Stop bringing her up, remember what I told you before?"

    Though she didn¡¯t explicitly say marrying Fu Yihan was their doing, Gu Xiaoxiao knew Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t quite like Su Yuerou.

    "Got it." Gu Xiaoxiao nodded, smiling lightly, "I won¡¯t mention it anymore."

    "Hmm."

    Putting aside all unnecessary thoughts, Su Qingnuan focused on her ss seriously.

    After ss, Su Qingnuan nned to take a taxi back but saw a familiar car at the school gate.

    The window, tinted with dark sunshade film, rolled down, and A Qi looked at Su Qingnuan unemotionally.

    "Madam, the Eldest Young Master said it¡¯s not safe for a youngdy to take a taxi at night."

    "Mr. Fu said that?" Su Qingnuan leaned in to look inside, the backseat was empty.

    "The Eldest Young Master has already gone back," A Qi exined.

 Chapter 61: The Careful Grandfather

    <h4>Chapter 61: Chapter 61: The Careful Grandfather</h4><h4></h4>

    "Alright."

    Without hesitation, she opened the car door and got inside. Su Qingnuan felt that A Qi was quite right.

    By the time she returned to the Fu family house, it was already 9 PM.

    The dining hour had long passed, so the living room was very quiet.

    Grandpa Fu sat on the sofa, staring sternly at the television.

    The TV was broadcasting the news, the righteous voice filling the entire living room.

    "Grandpa," Su Qingnuan greeted with a light smile.

    Grandpa Fu turned his head, seeing Su Qingnuan standing there obediently with her backpack, and smiled.

    "You¡¯re back. There¡¯s soup left for you in the kitchen, go and have some."

    Soup was left?

    To her surprise, the old man was such a considerate person. Su Qingnuan smiled and nodded, then turned to walk towards the kitchen.

    The kitchen lights were still on, and the cooks and uncles were sitting together chatting.

    Upon hearing footsteps, everyone turned their heads to look.

    "Grandpa said there¡¯s soup left for me," Su Qingnuan said with a smile, "Am I disturbing you all?"

    "No, no!" The aunt quickly stood up,ughing, "Eldest Young Mistress, if you want to go back to your room, I can heat it for you and bring it up."

    Su Qingnuan smiled lightly, "Alright, then I¡¯ll trouble you, Auntie."

    "No trouble at all."

    She turned and went upstairs. The room lights were off, Fu Yihan was not there.

    Su Qingnuan set down her backpack, sat on the chair for a while, before getting up to take a bath.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The sudden sound of knocking made Su Qingnuan put down the clothes in her hand.

    "Who is it?" Su Qingnuan asked while opening the door.

    A servant stood at the door, holding a bowl of soup.

    "Eldest Young Mistress, your soup."

    "Hmm," Su Qingnuan took the soup and said to the person with their head lowered, "I¡¯ll bring it down myself after drinking, you can go about your business."

    "Yes."

    Closing the door, Su Qingnuan ced the soup to the side, then grabbed her clothes and went into the bathroom.

    After afortable bath, the soup had be warm.

    While sipping the soup, Su Qingnuan looked at the matters needing attention for the uingpetition, enjoying the leisurely day.

    After finishing the soup, Su Qingnuan heard knocking once more.

    This time it wasn¡¯t a servant, but A Qi.

    "Eldest Young Mistress, Eldest Young Master is resting in the study tonight, he said you don¡¯t need to wait for him."

    Wait for him?

    Su Qingnuan was taken aback, following A Qi¡¯s gaze.

    Not far from the corner, a piece of clothing was slightly exposed.

    "Alright, I understand." Su Qingnuan took out a nket from inside and handed it to A Qi, "Don¡¯t let the Eldest Young Master catch a cold."

    "Yes."

    With A Qi holding the nket and leaving, only then did Su Qingnuan close the door.

    With Fu Yihan noting back, Su Qingnuan felt free.

    Sitting on the sofa and watching TV for a while, as sleepiness crept in, she returned to the bedroom to sleep.

    But as the sleepiness grew, an unusual pain followed. Su Qingnuan¡¯s lower abdomen began to hurt.

    This pain gradually overwhelmed the sleepiness, and Su Qingnuan suddenly widened her eyes.

    Her lower abdomen felt as if several knives were twisting inside, the pain was unbearable.

    She nced at the phone on the bedside table, slowly reaching out her hand.

    So close, yet so far.

    Gritting her teeth, Su Qingnuan exerted effort to stretch her hand.

    Finally touching the phone, she squinted her eyes, pulling back her hand.

    "tter¡ª"

    The phone dropped to the floor.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand trembled uncontrobly, unable to hold the phone.

    Peering at the phone under the bed, Su Qingnuan reached out once more.

    "Bang¡ª"

    Her body hit the floor, the impact wasn¡¯t even a third of the pain from her abdomen.

    Yet the phone, obediently lying under the bed, was out of sight due to the impact.

    "Help..." painfully widening her eyes, Su Qingnuan searched for the phone, struggling to speak.

    "Someone...e..."

    Unable to find the phone, Su Qingnuan focused her attention on the distant door, using all her strength to drag her body towards it.

    Almost there...

    The door was just over there.

    Biting her lip, Su Qingnuan reached for the doorknob.

    "Click¡ª"

    A ray of light shone through, making Su Qingnuan squint her eyes.

    The bright light from the living room and the vague mumbling gave her hope once more.

    ...

    "Eldest Young Master, here are the photos."

    A Qi spread out the photos he held.

    Fu Yihan nced at them indifferently, his expression inscrutable.

    "When did this start?"

    "Today."

    "Heh," Fu Yihan slightly curled his lips, revealing a mocking smile, "So infatuated."

    A Qi hung his head in silence.

    "You go and..."

    "Bang¡ª"

    The sudden noise interrupted their conversation.

    Looking towards the door, Fu Yihan slightly frowned: "Go take a look."

    "Yes."

    A Qi ran out of the room, immediately seeing Su Qingnuan lying face down on the floor.

    "Eldest Young Mistress?" A Qi rushed over in surprise, "What¡¯s wrong with you?"

    The person lying there showed no movement, her breathing shallow.

    "What happened?" Fu Yihan wheeled himself out and seeing the person lying there, his frown deepened, "Call the doctor."

    A Qi took his phone and moved to the side.

    Fu Yihan wheeled over, bending down.

    His hand touched Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheek, damp with sweat.

    Thiste in autumn, sweating so much?

    He forcefully turned her over, revealing Su Qingnuan¡¯s pained expression.

    She was clutching her stomach with her left hand, her right hand outstretched, trying to grasp something.

    "Eldest Young Master, I¡¯ve informed the doctor, they¡¯re on their way."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, "Carry her to the bed."

    A Qi quickly bent down, carrying Su Qingnuan back to the room.

    "Where to?" Fu Yihan¡¯s voice came from behind.

    A Qi paused in confusion and turned his head.

    Fu Yihan pointed to his own room, frowning, "Are you afraid others won¡¯t know we sleep in separate rooms?"

    "....."

    Hurriedly, he carried Su Qingnuan to his room, carefully cing her on the bed.

    "Bring a clean cloth," Fu Yihan ordered again.

    A Qi nodded and left.

    "Ugh¡ª"

    A soft groan, Fu Yihan turned back.

    Su Qingnuan curled uppletely, appearing even more pained.

    A troubled stomach?

    Fu Yihan approached the bedside, observing her painful appearance, couldn¡¯t help but reach out.

    "Eldest Young Master!"

    He quickly pulled back his hand, turning to look.

    A Qi came over with a clean towel, helplessly said, "I only found this."

    "Wipe her sweat," Fu Yihan instructed.

    "Huh?" A Qi pointed to himself, "You want me to do it?"

    "....."

    With a resigned hand gesture, Fu Yihan looked at him calmly.

    Immediately handing the towel to Fu Yihan, A Qi smiled, "I¡¯ll go downstairs to call Lian Yi."

    "Hmm."

    Fu Yihan took the clean cloth, not gently wiping the sweat off Su Qingnuan¡¯s face.

    The ces where the cloth passed, even when wiped clean, sweat quickly appeared again.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and withdrew his hand.

    However, in midair his hand was suddenly caught.

    Surprised, he turned his head.

    Su Qingnuan gripped his hand tightly, her expression growing more pained, her grasp intensifying.

 Chapter 62 Drugging

    <h4>Chapter 62: Chapter 62 Drugging</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan¡¯s brows furrowed even deeper as he raised his hand...

    "Mom....."

    The hand that was struggling froze. Fu Yihan turned his head to look at the person lying there.

    Her expression was tormented, but the corners of her mouth held a faint smile.

    "Mom... don¡¯t go...."

    She actually mistook him for a woman?

    Fu Yihan sneered coldly, ncing at the hand gripping his, and made no further attempt to pull away.

    After a long while, A Qi appeared at the doorway, bringing Lianyi along with him.

    "What is going on here?" Lianyi walked over in surprise, her gaze settling on Su Qingnuan¡¯s appearance. She looked at Fu Yihan with concern. "Eldest Young Master, did you abuse her or something?"

    "..." Fu Yihan shot her a re and said sternly, "You¡¯re crossing the line."

    Restraining her own expression, Lianyi took a handkerchief and asked softly, "Did you call the doctor? This situation doesn¡¯t look simple! Why is she sweating so much?"

    "I don¡¯t know." Fu Yihan exerted a little force, attempting to free himself from Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    However, even in her unconscious state, she somehow had enough strength to clutch his wrist tightly.

    Noticing their interactions, Lianyi smiled meaningfully.

    "You know, it¡¯s said that unconscious people are at their most vulnerable. They¡¯ll instinctively grab onto whatever they can like a lifeline. Eldest Young Master, maybe you shouldn¡¯t pull your hand back for now."

    Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan. Whenever he tried to move his hand, her expression grew more agonized.

    After a moment of silence, Fu Yihan ultimately stopped struggling.

    The doctor finally arrived, and Su Qingnuan was alreadypletely debilitated.

    "Doctor Li, please take a look. What exactly is going on here?" Lianyi pushed Doctor Li to the other side.

    Doctor Li checked Su Qingnuan¡¯s condition, his brows gradually furrowing.

    "This doesn¡¯t seem like normal physical pain."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and asked in a low voice, "What do you mean?"

    "Her heartbeat is irregr, her breathing is rapid, and her chest hardly moves. Eldest Young Master, send her to the hospital immediately."

    Doctor Li was the Fu family¡¯s private physician. If it had been a simple ailment, it wouldn¡¯t have been a problem for him to handle. For him to say something like this meant Su Qingnuan¡¯s condition was quite serious.

    Fu Yihan looked at A Qi andmanded sternly, "Go prepare the car."

    "Yes."

    Watching A Qi head out, Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze fell on Doctor Li.

    "Doctor Li, I¡¯ll need you toe along."

    "Rest assured, Eldest Young Master."

    A Qi moved swiftly and soon returned to inform them that the car was ready.

    Hoisting Su Qingnuan onto his back, they quickly made their way downstairs and rushed to the hospital without any dy.

    After precise medical examinations, Doctor Li confirmed that Su Qingnuan had suffered a cardiac episode. The specific cause would require further investigation.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair stopped outside the emergency room, silently watching the red-lit doors.

    "Has she engaged in any vigorous activity today?"

    "No." A Qi lowered his head solemnly. "Aside from attending ss and having a meal with someone, she did nothing else today."

    It was just like any other day, so why would she have an episode?

    She had lived this way since childhood and surely knew how to avoid triggers.

    If it wasn¡¯t a self-induced condition, then there could only be one other possibility...

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, the dark depths of his eyes revealing a slowly emerging violent aura.

    "A Qi, go investigate."

    "Eldest Young Master, do you suspect...?"

    "Everyone who interacted with her tonight, call them in. Get to the bottom of it."

    "Yes!"

    Watching A Qi leave, Lianyi cautiously approached Fu Yihan and whispered, "Eldest Young Master, wouldn¡¯t it be a bit much to disturb the old master at this hour?"

    Fu Yihan shot her a nce but said nothing.

    Under that cold gaze, Lianyi admitted defeat.

    "Cousin, I came here to help you out. Why do you always give me that icy look?"

    Fu Yihan let out a derisive snort. "Did I ask you to help me?"

    ".....Alright then." Lianyi nodded helplessly. "I volunteered myself, but at the very least, I¡¯m your cousin. Can¡¯t you give me some face and stop ring at me? You know your stare makes my skin crawl."

    Withdrawing his gaze, Fu Yihan¡¯s demeanor remained as cold as ever.

    "I¡¯ve always been like this."

    Looking at her cousin¡¯s rigid profile, Lianyi sighed softly. "What a waste of such a handsome face."

    The two waited outside until the doors to the emergency room opened.

    Doctor Li stepped out, letting out a small breath of relief.

    "Eldest Young Master, the eldest youngdy has now escaped life-threatening danger. Soon, they¡¯ll transport her to a ward."

    "Alright." Fu Yihan nced indifferently at the now-closed emergency room door and asked, "Did you identify the cause?"

    "Her cells suddenly became highly active, which stimted her heart. I suspect she may have taken some medication earlier¡ªperhaps something like diet pills?"

    "Diet pills?" Lianyi said with amusement, "Looking at my sister-inw, she hardly seems like the type who¡¯d go on a diet!"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cool gaze flickered toward her.

    Lianyi quickly shut her mouth, standing quietly to the side.

    "Got it. Thank you for your effort, Doctor Li."

    "Eldest Young Master, it¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m on duty tonight, so if anythinges up, juste find me at the infirmary."

    "Alright."

    Once the nurses wheeled Su Qingnuan out, Fu Yihan and Lianyi followed her to the ward.

    After the emergency room visit, Su Qingnuan¡¯splexion had turned even paler.

    "Poor sister-inw," Lianyi sighed. "Why does she end up in the hospital every other moment?"

    Fu Yihan frowned and nced at her. "Go handle the admission paperwork."

    "Huh?" Lianyiined helplessly. "Can¡¯t we wait for A Qi to do thatter?"

    "No." You¡¯re too noisy.

    "...Fine then."

    Once Lianyi left, the ward finally fell into silence.

    Fu Yihan turned his head, looking at Su Qingnuan lying on the bed.

    Her brows were no longer furrowed, but her face remained pallid, and her breaths were faint.

    She seemed so fragile that it wouldn¡¯t surprise him if she stopped breathing at any moment.

    He leaned closer, staring at her porcin-like face, so pale that even the fine hairs were distinctly visible.

    "Tsk!" Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but poke her pale cheek. Soft and warm to the touch.

    The sensation reassured Fu Yihan¡ªthis person was still alive.

    "Why are you so cursed with misfortune?"

    The softly murmured query echoed in the room, yet elicited no response.

    Fu Yihan retracted his hand and pulled the quilt up higher.

    He lifted her exposed hand and tucked it beneath the quilt.

    Despite how thin Su Qingnuan was, her hands still held a peculiar hint of plumpness, making them very pleasant to hold.

    Fu Yihan stared at her hand for a moment longer before abruptly pulling it back out.

    Her fingers were slightly curled, forming a loose fist.

    Fu Yihan extended his index finger, cing it in her palm.

    Suddenly, her fingers twitched slightly, delicately wrapping around his finger.

    The soft,forting touch made Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curve upward faintly.

    So, this person could be quite amusing after all...

 Chapter 63 Consequences

    <h4>Chapter 63: Chapter 63 Consequences</h4><h4></h4>

    Lianyi returned with the receipt and put it aside, seeing Fu Yihan sitting at the table, reading a magazine.

    "Cousin, why aren¡¯t you keeping an eye on her?" Lianyi frowned and said, "She¡¯s so fragile right now. Dr. Li said she might experience some issues at any time."

    Fu Yihan lifted his gaze from the magazine and shot her a cold look: "It¡¯s fine. She won¡¯t die."

    "...You¡¯re truly heartless." Lianyi sighed softly, looking at the person lying on the bed. She said helplessly, "Poor thing. Such a frail and sickly sister-inw."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t react to Lianyi¡¯s words. He lowered his head and continued reading the magazine.

    Dawn broke, and Su Qingnuan finally stirred and regained consciousness.

    The stark white surroundings and the scent of disinfectant in the air told Su Qingnuan she was back in the hospital again.

    "Awake?" Lianyi smiled and said, "Ah Qi just brought over some porridge, and you woke up right on time."

    Su Qingnuan weakly cracked a smile.

    "What happened to me?" Her chest felt heavy, and she instinctively held it. Confused, she asked, "Did my heart condition act up again?"

    She was puzzled. When she fainted, she only remembered her stomach aching. How did it be a heart issue?

    "That¡¯s right!" Lianyi sighed and sat down, speaking softly, "Eldest Young Mistress, you really gave us quite a scarest night!"

    "I¡¯m sorry..." Su Qingnuan lowered her head, her hands involuntarily tightening, twisting her fingers.

    Seeing this, Lianyi quickly said with a smile, "It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s our duty to take care of you. Have some porridge first."

    Su Qingnuan lifted her hand, pulling on the one with the needle inserted, causing blood to flow backward.

    "My goodness..."

    Ah Qi hurried over and skillfully pinched the tube, stopping the blood from flowing back.

    "I..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s face fell, "I didn¡¯t notice."

    "It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine." Aunt Lin pressed her shoulder gently andforted her, "Nothing serious, don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s resolved now, so let¡¯s not worry."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head again and said nothing.

    Watching her droop like this, Lianyi turned to Ah Qi.

    Ah Qi got the hint and cleared his throat: "Eldest Young Mistress, please have the porridge. The doctor wille by for a check-up soon. If there¡¯s no other issue, we¡¯ll take you home."

    "...Alright."

    Su Qingnuan took the bowl in silence and began eating the porridge in a slow, distracted manner.

    Taking advantage of her moment of distraction, Lianyi pulled Ah Qi outside.

    "What¡¯s going on? Where did Cousin go?"

    "..." Ah Qi nced away and said seriously, "I don¡¯t know."

    "...Oh, please!" Lianyi grabbed Ah Qi¡¯s shoulder, her almond-shaped eyes staring him down. "Didn¡¯t we agree to pick her up together? Why did he leave first?"

    "I truly don¡¯t know..."

    Lianyi refused to let go, relentlessly trailing Ah Qi wherever he went.

    As a result, Ah Qi couldn¡¯t even make a phone call.

    In the end, Ah Qi couldn¡¯t take it anymore and had to spill the truth.

    "He really left?" Lianyi was shocked. "He went back to stand up for Su Yuerou?"

    Ah Qi nced at her and replied softly, "Yes."

    "Oh my goodness!" Lianyi sped her hands together, looking at the hospital room with admiration. "My sister-inw is incredible. I¡¯ve never seen my cousin go out of his way for anyone like this."

    "...That¡¯s not exactly it." Ah Qi touched his nose awkwardly and said helplessly, "The Eldest Young Master just went back to make arrangements."

    "What arrangements?"

    "I don¡¯t know." Ah Qi shrugged helplessly, "If you¡¯re that curious, you can try calling the Eldest Young Master yourself."

    "As if he¡¯d tell me." Lianyi rolled her eyes at him and turned her gaze away. "Fine, go call the doctor. She¡¯s finished eating."

    "Okay."

    Su Qingnuan quietly sat on the hospital bed. Only after the doctorpleted her examination did she look at him.

    "Doctor, is there anything wrong?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Dr. Li smiled and shook his head: "Nothing serious. Just make sure to avoid emotional agitation for the next few days, alright?"

    "Alright, thank you, Doctor."

    "You¡¯re wee."

    After the doctor left, Lianyi started cheerfully packing their belongings.

    Listening to her hum a tune, Su Qingnuan chuckled and said, "What¡¯s made you so happy?"

    Lianyi paused and then replied with a smile, "Having nothing happen is what brings the greatest joy, don¡¯t you think?"

    "That¡¯s true."

    Nothing happening truly is the greatest joy.

    The three of them packed up and went downstairs, only to encounter an unexpected figure.

    "Sister-inw, I was just about toe up to get you." Gong Qi approached Su Qingnuan with his usual gentle smile.

    "Mr. Gong, why are you here?"

    "Am I not allowed toe?" Meeting Su Qingnuan¡¯s surprised gaze, Gong Qi smiled faintly and said, "Yihan asked me to pick you all up."

    Fu Yihan?

    Hadn¡¯t he already gone back? Why would he specifically arrange for someone to pick her up?

    "Don¡¯t just stand there. Let¡¯s go. My car¡¯s waiting outside."

    "Oh...alright."

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of her thoughts and followed Gong Qi outside the hospital.

    Gong Qi drove them back to the Fu residence and even thoughtfully escorted them inside.

    In the Fu family living room, everyone was gathered, creating a rather overwhelming scene.

    Alongside the family members, even the household staff were present, standing quietly.

    "What¡¯s this all about?" Lianyi asked in a low voice.

    Her question was met with silence from the group.

    "Yihan." Gong Qi ced down the luggage and said with a faint smile, "I¡¯vepleted the task just as you instructed."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan¡¯s cold voice rang out, "Bring a chair for Mr. Gong."

    Soon, a chair was ced in front of Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi nced at Su Qingnuan and said, "Sister-inw, you should sit first."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan quickly looked at Fu Yihan, but he said nothing.

    "Sit down. You just came from the hospital, your body is still weak. You need to rest."

    Saying this, Gong Qi pressed Su Qingnuan down onto the chair with considerable force.

    Forced to sit, Su Qingnuan shifted ufortably, feeling uneasy.

    "Now that everyone¡¯s here, we need to address some matters," Fu Yihan said.

    The old master nced at Su Qingnuan¡¯s pale face and frowned: "This matter can be both minor and major. With Mr. Gong here as a witness, our family can ensure there are no future urrences of such incidents. We will show no leniency."

    "Indeed, there must be no leniency," Fu Yihan said, his icy gazending on Yun Meifeng. "And we won¡¯t let it go now either."

    Yun Meifeng smiled lightly. "The old master and Yihan are right, matters like these can¡¯t be ignored."

    The servants lowered their heads, silent and grim.

    "Thud, thud, thud¡ª"

    The old master tapped his cane sharply and said sternly, "Who heated up the soupst night? And who delivered it?"

    As soon as he finished speaking, the kitchen maid stepped forward nervously, "Old Master, I¡¯ve been working at the Fu residence for so many years, I would never do such a thing!"

    The old master said nothing, his sharp gaze scanning the servants before continuing, "Who delivered the soup?"

    The room fell silent.

    After a long pause, someone slowly stepped out from the crowd.

    "Old Master, I was the one who delivered it."

 Chapter 64: Dismissal

    <h4>Chapter 64: Chapter 64: Dismissal</h4><h4></h4>

    The man had a face that wasn¡¯t particrly bad-looking, but the hostility in his eyes was impossible to hide.

    "This soup hasn¡¯t caused any issues for us, nor for the aunt. Can you exin why it caused none for you either?" The old man asked coldly.

    The man suddenly dropped to his knees with a loud "thud."

    "Master!" The woman¡¯s tears started to fall, "I truly didn¡¯t mean it! When I was taking my medicine, some powder identally fell in. I really didn¡¯t do it on purpose!"

    "Your medicine?" The old man¡¯s gaze turned sharp. "What medicine?"

    She carefully pulled out a small bag of medicine from her pocket and handed it to the old man.

    It had green packaging with a picture of some unknown celebrity printed on it. It looked incredibly cheap.

    "What kind of medicine is this?" The old man asked.

    The woman lowered her head and muttered, "Diet pills."

    As expected, it was exactly as the doctor had said¡ªweight-loss products.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The old man mmed the packet of pills on the table fiercely, his voice filled with anger: "If you¡¯re trying to lose weight, at least use better weight-loss products. What is this junk?"

    "..."

    The room fell into silence.

    "Do you realize that this packet of pills almost caused someone¡¯s death?"

    The furious voice echoed across the main hall.

    "I know, Master¡ªI was wrong! I didn¡¯t mean to! Please forgive me this one time!" The woman cried out pitifully.

    The old man paused, turning to Su Qingnuan: "Yuerou, you¡¯re the one directly involved in this matter. Whether to forgive her is up to you."

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, opened her mouth to speak, but was stopped when someone grabbed her right hand.

    "Why forgive her?" Fu Yihan said coldly, his icy gaze falling on the woman. "She can¡¯t even handle something as simple as serving soup. If your great-grandchildren are born in the future, would you trust someone like this to take care of them?"

    The old man suddenly fell silent.

    "Master," the woman pleaded earnestly as she turned to Fu Yihan, "I promise I¡¯ll be more diligent and careful. I¡¯ll never make such a lowly mistake again. Please, give me one more chance!"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression remained indifferent, and he didn¡¯t spare her a single nce.

    "Yuerou," Fu Yihan said firmly, "tell everyone here that this is something you absolutely cannot forgive."

    Without hesitation, Su Qingnuan nodded, her determined gaze sweeping across the room: "If this had been slightly more serious, all of you might not even be able to see me anymore. Under such grave circumstances, I can¡¯t possibly forgive this."

    "So," she nced at the woman and spoke calmly, "handle it however it should be handled."

    "Young Mistress!"

    The woman¡¯s face twisted with anger as she red at Su Qingnuan.

    Looking at that face, Su Qingnuan was struck by a familiar feeling.

    Ah, yes¡ªthe maid who had taken care of her when she first arrived here.

    Though they¡¯d only interacted briefly, it had left a deep impression. After all, it¡¯s not often someone threatens your life.

    Any shred of mercy she might¡¯ve held in her heart disappeared entirely at the sight of that face.

    If it were someone else, she might still believe it was an ident. But as for this servant, Su Qingnuan did not trust her.

    "Fine." The old man nced at the servant and spoke ruthlessly: "Since the Young Mistress has made her stance clear, there¡¯s nothing else to say. ording to the Fu family¡¯s rules, you¡¯re dismissed immediately."

    "Master Fu! Please, just one more chance!" The woman reached out to grab the old man¡¯s clothes but was stopped by the servants nearby.

    "What are you all standing around for? Hurry up and take her away! Stop letting her embarrass herself here."

    With that, several people got up and carried the woman out.

    The woman resisted fiercely, grasping at anything she could along the way, but ultimately, her struggles were futile against the brute force.

    Watching the figure of the departing woman, Fu Yihan frowned: "From now on, if there are any more servants like this in the house, dismiss them immediately."

    "Understood."

    The servants responded in unison, their faces carrying a strange sense of fear. Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but feel amused.

    "Let¡¯s go." Fu Yihan¡¯s cool voice rang out.

    Su Qingnuan hummed an acknowledgment and followed Fu Yihan toward the elevator.

    Once back in their room, watching them settle onto the sofa, Su Qingnuan also moved to sit down.

    "Why are youing over here?" Fu Yihan frowned, "Shouldn¡¯t you be lying down on the bed?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan slowly stood up, awkwardly smiled, and walked toward the bedroom.

    Once in her room, Su Qingnuany on the bed, reflecting on the events that had unfolded over the past couple of days.

    It truly seemed like the saying was right: a life filled with cmities and hardships.

    Letting out a long sigh, she thought about her uingpetition, knowing she couldn¡¯t afford any dys.

    As she was racking her brain for a n, her phone suddenly rang.

    "Hello?" Su Qingnuan answered with a faint smile. "It¡¯s been so long since you called me. Have you finally remembered our breakfast deal?"

    "No!" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s frantic voice came through. "How could you even say that?! I¡¯ve been calling you endlessly, but you never picked up. I was worried you¡¯d gone missing!"

    Listening to Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s concerned tone, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile even more: "My bad, things happened suddenly, and I didn¡¯t have time to let you know. That¡¯s on me."

    "Cut the polite nonsense. How are you doing now? Are you still in the hospital? Should I take leave tomorrow toe visit?"

    "No need, I¡¯ve already been discharged." Su Qingnuan shifted into a morefortable position and exined helplessly: "Our maid identally put diet pills into the soup I drank, so I ended up hospitalized."

    "What kind of person does that? So heartless!" Gu Xiaoxiao said angrily. "That¡¯s just outrageous! Never mind¡ªI¡¯lle over tomorrow and make sure you get justice!"

    "No need!" Hearing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s excited tone, Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly. "She¡¯s already been fired; you won¡¯t find her even if youe."

    "...Well, at least your family handled it properly!"

    Whenever Su Qingnuan talked to Gu Xiaoxiao, she couldn¡¯t help but let her lips curl upward into a smile.

    The happiness was mutual between them, leaving neither of them with any burdens.

    "By the way, there¡¯s something I wanted to tell you!"

    "What¡¯s up?"

    "Well... Shen Lin¡¯an has been asking me about you every daytely. I haven¡¯t told him anything, but judging by how persistent he is, I don¡¯t think he¡¯ll be able to hold back much longer."

    Su Qingnuan suddenly fell silent.

    "You have to believe me; I haven¡¯t said a word!" Gu Xiaoxiao hurried to exin.

    "I know!" Su Qingnuan sighed. "I should be able to return to school tomorrow. Do you have notes from the past few days? I¡¯ll need to borrow them."

    "Your body is like this, and all you¡¯re thinking about are notes. Honestly, I don¡¯t know what to do with you."

    "Hahaha!"

    After hanging up, Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile faded.

    What exactly is Shen Lin¡¯an thinking?

    He¡¯s the one who said he¡¯d give up, yet now he¡¯s the one pestering endlessly. This man is truly impossible to understand.

    Forget it, he doesn¡¯t matter. What¡¯s clear is that there¡¯s no going back to how things used to be.

 Chapter 65 Harassment

    <h4>Chapter 65: Chapter 65 Harassment</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan opened the door and saw someone sitting outside.

    If she spoke now, would it backfire?

    But she really couldn¡¯t afford to fall behind in her courses.

    After thinking it over, Su Qingnuan still decided to step out.

    Upon hearing the sound of the door opening, Fu Yihan turned his head. Seeing her, he frowned slightly and asked, "What is it?"

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan nervously twisted the hem of her shirt and cautiously said, "The doctor said that I just need to rest for now. Can I go to school tomorrow?"

    His frown deepened, making his expression even colder. Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and looked at her.

    "... It¡¯s just that I¡¯m participating in apetition. The school has arranged special training for me, and I¡¯ve already fallen behind by two days. I can¡¯t afford to miss any more."

    "Competition?" Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and asked indifferently, "What kind ofpetition?"

    "A provincial-levelpetition called the Creative IT Contest. The winner gets priority in choosing their internship cement for the first half of the year."

    "Creative IT?" Fu Yihan paused what he was doing and looked at Su Qingnuan. "I¡¯ve heard that thispetition is quite hard."

    "Yes..." Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile. "Our province has many IT professionals, and it¡¯s always verypetitive. Every year, the participants practically fight tooth and nail."

    "Wow, Eldest Young Lady, you¡¯re amazing!" Lianyi pped her hands and said with a bright smile, "I¡¯m so envious of people with sharp minds!"

    Su Qingnuan flushed slightly with embarrassment, pressing her fingers to her cheek. Sheughed softly, "It¡¯s nothing, really. I¡¯m just participating; I haven¡¯t achieved anything yet."

    "It¡¯s okay! No matter the results, I¡¯ll cheer for you, every step of the way!"

    Seeing Lianyi raise her fist with excitement, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile as well.

    "Mm, thank you!"

    "Thanking me already? You¡¯re so confident," Fu Yihan¡¯s cold voice interrupted suddenly.

    Su Qingnuan quickly straightened her posture and said earnestly, "Actually, I¡¯m not entirely confident. I just want to give it a try, so..."

    "So you want to attend ss tomorrow?" Fu Yihan cut in.

    Su Qingnuan immediately nodded.

    "Not impossible." Fu Yihan nced at Lianyi and said with a serious tone, "Lianyi, you¡¯ll apany her tomorrow."

    "Me?" Lianyi pointed to herself, stunned.

    "Yes."

    "... Umm, I still have a lot of work to do. I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t¡ª"

    Fu Yihan curved his lips with a hint of mockery and said coldly, "All of it is canceled. From now on, your job is to fully assist the Eldest Young Lady."

    "..."

    Lianyi looked up into Su Qingnuan¡¯s expectant eyes. After hesitating for a moment, she grit her teeth and nodded. "Fine, fine. I¡¯ll go with her. It¡¯s just school, right!"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s round eyes lit up with joy. "Thank you!"

    "No need to thank me, Eldest Young Lady."

    "Alright, it¡¯s settled then."

    Fu Yihan wheeled himself back inside, with Ah Qi following closely behind.

    Lianyi got up, patted Su Qingnuan on the shoulder, and sighed. "Eldest Young Lady, rest up early. We¡¯ll head out together tomorrow."

    "Got it."

    With a smile, Su Qingnuan went to sleep and had a good dream.

    On the first day of the month, she woke up early and waited for Lianyi to head to the school together.

    However, when she got to the living room, it wasn¡¯t just Lianyi there.

    "Mr. Fu... Why are you also here..." Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, looking at Lianyi.

    Lianyi shrugged with a helpless expression. "No idea. Maybe the Eldest Young Master wants to visit the campus too?"

    Fu Yihan nced at her and said seriously, "Let¡¯s go. I¡¯m driving you both to school."

    "You¡¯re driving us again?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "You don¡¯t want to go?"

    "... I do."

    "Then let¡¯s go."

    With Lianyi tagging along, Su Qingnuan finally dared to talk normally in the car.

    Lianyi wasn¡¯t very curious about Su Qingnuan¡¯s school. What intrigued her more was thepetition Su Qingnuan was entering.

    "Are you ready for it?" Lianyi asked.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "Not yet, but I¡¯vee up with a few ideas. Once I finalize one, I¡¯ll be ready."

    "I see..." Lianyi withdrew her gaze, appearing thoughtful.

    Afterward, their conversation revolved entirely around the project topics.

    From their discussion, Su Qingnuan noticed that Lianyi seemed to know more than she had expected.

    The car stopped at the school entrance, and Su Qingnuan and Lianyi got out.

    After saying goodbye to Fu Yihan, the two of them turned and entered the school gate.

    "Qingnuan!"

    A worried voice called out, making Su Qingnuan quicken her pace.

    "Eldest Young Lady? Why are you walking so fast? Aren¡¯t you still¡ª"

    Before she could finish speaking, a figure stepped in front of them, blocking their way.

    Shen Lin¡¯an stood there, panting, his gaze firmly fixed on Su Qingnuan.

    "Why do you look so pale? Is your heart acting up again?"

    His hand instinctively reached out, grazing Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheek.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and took a step back.

    "Hey, hey, hey! What are you doing?" Lianyi stepped in front of Su Qingnuan, ring fiercely. "It¡¯s broad daylight¡ªare you trying to harass her?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an nced at her suspiciously. "Who are you?"

    "I... I¡¯m..." Lianyi grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm, straightened her posture, and said seriously, "I¡¯m her friend!"

    "Friend? Howe I¡¯ve never seen you before?" Shen Lin¡¯an eyed her skeptically. "Qingnuan, are these the kinds of people you¡¯re befriending now? What kind of¡ª"

    "What kind of what?" Lianyi red up, cing her hands on her hips. "Never seen a beauty like me before?"

    "..." Shen Lin¡¯an adjusted his sses and muttered, "Shameless."

    "Hey! You¡ª" Lianyi was about to roll up her sleeves in anger.

    "Lianyi." Su Qingnuan pulled her back and said helplessly, "This is school."

    Lianyi paused, then reluctantly lowered her sleeves again, ring at him. "You better watch yourself. Because we¡¯re on campus, I¡¯ll let you off this time!"

    Shen Lin¡¯an snorted coldly and ignored her.

    "Qingnuan, you haven¡¯t been to school these past few days. I was so worried about you. How are you? Were you hospitalized again?"

    "..."

    Listening to his concerned words, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t feel even a shred offort.

    "I¡¯m fine." Su Qingnuan looked at him calmly. "I have ss soon. Please don¡¯t block my way."

    "Qingnuan," Shen Lin¡¯an grabbed her hand and leaned closer, lowering his voice. "I¡¯m truly worried about you."

    Lianyi immediately pulled Su Qingnuan back a few steps, eyeing him warily.

    Shen Lin¡¯an was momentarily stunned but took a step closer.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an!" Su Qingnuan said sharply, staring at him. "How many times do I have to tell you? We¡¯ve already ended things! Just leave me alone!"

    "Qingnuan..." Shen Lin¡¯an looked at her with longing, his eyes filled with reluctant hope.

    Su Qingnuan turned away and, pulling Lianyi along, walked past Shen Lin¡¯an and continued forward.

    A good whileter, Lianyi nced back and noticed he was still following them. She frowned and asked, "Eldest Young Lady, why does that guy stick to you like glue?"

    "... Just ignore him. He¡¯ll leave on his own eventually."

 Chapter 66 Filing a Complaint

    <h4>Chapter 66: Chapter 66 Filing a Comint</h4><h4></h4>

    Ripples turned back again, but the man was already nowhere to be seen.

    "Eldest Young Mistress, it¡¯s best to keep your distance from people like that in the future," Ripples said earnestly.

    Su Qingnuan nced at her with a helpless smile and replied, "I know, don¡¯t worry."

    "...Alright then."

    The two headed to the ssroom.

    Gu Xiaoxiao kept staring at the door, and seeing a familiar face, she immediately stood up and waved excitedly.

    "Qingnuan! Over here, over here!"

    Su Qingnuan walked over with Ripples, smiling lightly. "The two seats you saved for us, are they still free?"

    "They are!" Gu Xiaoxiao patted the seat next to her with a grin. "You two sit inside together."

    "Ripples, you sit inside."

    Ripples took the innermost seat, watching as Gu Xiaoxiao looked at Su Qingnuan with concern.

    "Just look at your face, why has it turned pale again? I told you to take care of your health, but instead, you¡¯re running off to the hospital every day!"

    A stream ofints burst from her mouth.

    Su Qingnuan pressed her hand down gently with a wry smile, saying, "It¡¯s nothing, I just ate something I shouldn¡¯t have. I¡¯m fine now, see?"

    "Fine or not, you absolutely can¡¯t keep doing this. You don¡¯t know how worried I was! Also..."

    Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly stopped and looked over at Ripples.

    Ripples propped her chin on one hand and smiled at her.

    "Forget it, I¡¯ll tell youter." Gu Xiaoxiao opened her textbook with a smile. "Let¡¯s focus on ss for now."

    After the main school lecture ended, they had to head upstairs to theputerb for additional tutoring sessions.

    When Ripples saw Shen Lin¡¯an again, her expression grew increasingly sour.

    "Why is it him again?" Ripples murmured to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile. "He¡¯s our substitute teacher for now."

    "..."

    Since Ripples wasn¡¯t on the enrollment list, naturally, she wasn¡¯t allowed to attend the tutoring session. During the ss, Shen Lin¡¯an had her sent out of the room.

    Standing by the door, Ripples peered through the window, noticing the way Shen Lin¡¯an looked at Su Qingnuan with ill intent. She couldn¡¯t help but take out her phone.

    Ripples: Someone¡¯s trying to steal your wife.

    Fu Yihan was in the middle of a video conference when his phone suddenly buzzed.

    Taking a moment during a pause in the conversation, he picked up his phone and nced at the message.

    Fu Yihan replied indifferently:

    Fu Yihan: Speak clearly.

    Ripples: There¡¯s a guy¡ªyour wife¡¯s childhood friend¡ªlooks like he¡¯s trying to win her back.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly.

    "Boss, if there are any problems with this contract, we can make further revisions," one of the individuals on the video call suggested.

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes, looked at the serious faces on theputer screen, and said with a raised brow, "It¡¯s fine. Carry on."

    "..."

    The discussion continued, and Fu Yihan lowered his head to respond to the message.

    Fu Yihan: Small fry, not worth mentioning.

    Ripples: Feeling that confident?

    Fu Yihan: Naturally.

    Ripples: You¡¯ll regret itter, mark my words!

    When there was no reply from Fu Yihan, Ripples couldn¡¯t help but peek through the window again to scrutinize the scene inside.

    After waiting for quite a while, the ss finally ended, and Ripples rushed back in.

    "Qingnuan, regarding the problem you raised just now, I have another solution. Would you like to hear it?" Shen Lin¡¯an stood at the lectern, smiling warmly.

    Su Qingnuan paused, then turned to look at Gu Xiaoxiao.

    "I think it¡¯s worth listening to. After all, it¡¯s just for academic purposes, right?"

    "I think so too."

    The two shared a smile and picked up their textbooks as they moved toward the lectern.

    "I don¡¯t think it¡¯s necessary to listen to him!"

    Before they got closer, Ripples blocked their way.

    Standing between them, Ripples smiled and said, "There¡¯s someone who knows this topic even better than him, and more thoroughly as well. I¡¯ll take you to ask that person."

    With that, she grabbed them and dashed outside without waiting to see their reactions.

    "Hey, hey, slow down! Qingnuan¡¯s health isn¡¯t suited for running!" Gu Xiaoxiao yanked Ripples to a stop and stubbornly refused to move.

    Ripples nced behind her. Not seeing Shen Lin¡¯an, she finally let go of their arms.

    "Ripples, who¡¯s this person you¡¯re talking about? Do I know them?" Su Qingnuan gasped for breath, not forgetting to inquire about her academic concerns.

    Ripples grinned, making an OK gesture as she replied mysteriously, "Eldest Young Mistress, you¡¯ll know when you go home."

    Home?

    Could it be she meant...

    Before she could contemte further, Ripples whisked her away once again.

    "Let¡¯s hurry and get far away from him."

    Su Qingnuan knew Ripples didn¡¯t like Shen Lin¡¯an, but she hadn¡¯t anticipated such tant animosity.

    Under Ripples¡¯ protective demeanor, Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t bothered by Shen Lin¡¯an for the rest of the day.

    After the day¡¯s sses ended, the person picking them up was still Ah Qi, but this time Fu Yihan was also there.

    "Eldest Young Master, rest assured, Ripples took great care of Eldest Young Mistress today!"

    As soon as she got in the car, Ripples eximed excitedly.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at Ripples¡¯ enthusiasm.

    Fu Yihan turned his head to look at Su Qingnuan. "She didn¡¯t bother you, did she?"

    "Not at all." Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head, smiling. "Having Ripples around was great; saved me from quite a bit of trouble."

    "Good to hear."

    The car moved forward slowly, the cabin filled with Ripples¡¯ughter.

    "Oh, Eldest Young Master!" Ripples suddenly turned around, looking at Fu Yihan with a yful smirk. "Eldest Young Mistress¡¯ contest this time seems pretty tough¡ªshe couldn¡¯t solve a lot of the problems."

    Su Qingnuan froze momentarily and lowered her head in embarrassment.

    Fu Yihan gave her a sharp nce and asked, "A lot of problems?"

    Su Qingnuan forced an awkward smile. "Not that many."

    It was herst attempt to salvage some dignity.

    "Don¡¯t be modest, Eldest Young Mistress. Back in the day, Eldest Young Master was a straight-up prodigy¡ªa total academic genius! He¡¯ll definitely help you figure things out!"

    "A genius?" Su Qingnuan looked at Ripples in surprise.

    "What¡¯s wrong? Doesn¡¯t he seem like one?" A cool voice, tinged with inexplicable irritation, chimed in.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head. "Not at all! I think... It fits perfectly."

    "Pfft¡ª"

    Ripples covered her mouth and turned away, but even so, she couldn¡¯t suppress herughter.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "Laugh any louder, and I¡¯ll throw you out of the car!"

    "..."

    The cabin returned to silence.

    Back home, after a quick wash, Su Qingnuan had nned to continue studying.

    However, upon seeing the red markings circling the textbook pages, she hesitated.

    With Ripples around, asking Shen Lin¡¯an for help was absolutely out of the question. So...

    She stood up and cracked open her door, peeking out to see Fu Yihan¡¯s room light still on.

    Holding her textbook, she cautiously stepped outside.

    Standing before the door, Su Qingnuan fixed her gaze on it.

    "I could..." Could I ask you to exin this problem?

    No, that sounds too direct!

    Su Qingnuan stamped her foot lightly on the ground and straightened herself.

    "I think..."

    What are you thinking? You¡¯re asking someone for help, not making idle chit-chat!

    This approach wouldn¡¯t work either.

    She patted her lips, her eyes gleaming with determination.

    "Maybe I could..."

    The closed door suddenly swung open, revealing Fu Yihan¡¯s emotionless face.

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    "Come in," he said.

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of it, quickly clutching her book and following him inside.

 Chapter 67 Learning

    <h4>Chapter 67: Chapter 67 Learning</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan¡¯s room had a small desk, which he used for work whenever he was in his bedroom.

    There weren¡¯t many items on the desk, but everything was well arranged.

    Fu Yihan walked to the back of the desk and looked at Su Qingnuan, who was standing there looking uneasy.

    "What¡¯s up?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan gripped the textbook in her hands nervously and said softly, "It¡¯s just... I have... some questions I want to ask you..."

    "Speak louder." Fu Yihan¡¯s icy voice carried a hint of teasing. "What, haven¡¯t eaten yet?"

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, her face suddenly turning red. She lowered her head and said, "I have some questions I want to ask you."

    "Mm."

    "Mm?" Su Qingnuan quickly raised her head and looked at Fu Yihan in surprise.

    Fu Yihan knocked on the table with his pen. "Standing so far away¡ªhow am I supposed to see your questions?"

    "....."

    She quickly moved closer, feeling ttered, and ced the textbook in front of Fu Yihan.

    "Where?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly pointed out a few ces andughed awkwardly. "These few spots."

    Fu Yihan nced at them and then raised his head again.

    "I thought you were a top student?"

    "...Even top students can encounter things they don¡¯t understand..."

    "Hah!" Fu Yihan knocked on the table again. "Pull over the chair. Sit down."

    Su Qingnuan quickly pulled a chair over and sat down.

    When Fu Yihan exined the questions, his breakdowns were thorough and made it easy to grasp the underlying concepts.

    Just once was enough for Su Qingnuan to understand.

    Seeing the look of realization on her face, Fu Yihan pointed at the two questions that followed. "I checked them out. These two have simr approaches¡ªtry solving them."

    Su Qingnuan pulled the textbook closer and got to work seriously.

    Whenever she concentrated on tasks, she had a habit of biting her lip.

    Her originally pale lips, after her repeated nibbling, turned a rosy shade.

    Fu Yihan was working on his own tasks at first, ncing over at her from time to time.

    But one such nce caught his attention, and suddenly, he couldn¡¯t look away.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s appearance was the type that was cold yet delicately alluring.

    When she wasn¡¯t speaking, she often seemed aloof, but in front of Fu Yihan, more than anything, she exuded a fragile vulnerability.

    She often regarded him with a frightened or timid gaze.

    Moments like this, where she was absorbed in her own world and revealed her true self, were rare for Fu Yihan to witness.

    She had peculiar habits¡ªbiting her lip and blinking frequently.

    Her thick, curvingshes fluttered like butterfly wings, shimmering softly.

    Each flick of thoseshes made Fu Yihan feel a peculiar itch in his chest.

    This strange sensationsted until she raised her head and cast that fragile and timid look toward Fu Yihan once more.

    "Mr. Fu, I finished writing."

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and snatched the textbook from her hand.

    "....."

    Why was he suddenly angry again?

    Su Qingnuan cautiously studied the man before her, trying to recall if she¡¯d done something wrong just now.

    How could he change moods so fast? This was like flipping a switch!

    "Alright."

    Before Su Qingnuan could figure out the reason for his anger, Fu Yihan had already smacked the textbook back in front of her, expressionless. "Move on to the next question."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯sprehension was excellent¡ªwhenever Fu Yihan exined something, she could not only understand it herself but also extrapte further.

    The way Fu Yihan¡¯s facial lines gradually softened throughout the session was clear evidence of this.

    When thest question was done, Su Qingnuan stood up, holding her textbook.

    She bowed politely to Fu Yihan and smiled. "Thank you, Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan nodded impassively.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan held her textbook tightly and tentatively looked at him, "If I run into more issues in the future, may Ie to you again?"

    Her tone was cautious, her gaze filled with both hope and a touch of fear.

    "Sure."

    After he said it, Fu Yihan froze too.

    Since when had he be someone so kindhearted? Offering tutoring for free?

    "Thank you, Mr. Fu!" Su Qingnuan beamed joyfully. "I promise to work hard and live up to your expectations!"

    With that, Su Qingnuan turned and left.

    She even thoughtfully closed the door on her way out.

    Once Fu Yihan recovered from the bright smile she¡¯d left him with, his face darkened further.

    It seemed he¡¯d done something unnecessary.

    Oblivious to Fu Yihan¡¯s frustration, Su Qingnuan¡¯s happinesssted into the next day.

    "Still nning to ask about yesterday¡¯s questions?" On the way to the tutoring center, Gu Xiaoxiao lowered her voice to ask.

    Su Qingnuan smiled and shook her head. "Nope, I found a better teacher."

    "Really?" Gu Xiaoxiao said excitedly. "Who? And you solved those questions? Share with me too?"

    "Sure!" Su Qingnuan took out her textbook and showed her yesterday¡¯s questions.

    Gu Xiaoxiao stared at the handwriting in the book and asked curiously, "Whose writing is this? It¡¯s weirdly nice-looking!"

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t answer but directly started exining the solutions.

    Ripple leaned over to take a look and immediately recognized her cousin¡¯s handwriting.

    Because Fu Yihan had practiced calligraphy as a child, his handwriting carried a unique style that was very recognizable.

    Ripple gave Su Qingnuan a meaningful look, then picked up her phone again.

    Ripple: Cousin, you¡¯re something else. Having a private session with your future wife?

    There was no response, so Ripple, undeterred, sent him another message.

    But this time, the message didn¡¯t go through. The system indicated she needed to add him as a friend first.

    Wow¡ªhe actually deleted her as a friend.

    While Ripple was at loggerheads with her cousin, Shen Lin¡¯an showed up.

    Seeing Ripple sitting there, Shen Lin¡¯an frowned and said, "ss is about to start. If you¡¯re not on the list, please leave."

    His sarcastic tone made Ripple frown hard.

    She red at him, got up, and walked out.

    The next two hours went rtively smoothly. As soon as ss ended, Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao started packing up.

    No one expected Shen Lin¡¯an to leave the podium and approach them directly this time.

    "Qingnuan, about that question fromst time¡ªI can..."

    "No need." Su Qingnuan politely but firmly interrupted him. "I¡¯ve already resolved it, but thank you for your concern, Mr. Shen."

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression changed slightly. He stepped in front of Su Qingnuan to stop her from leaving.

    "Qingnuan, I heard you got sick from eating something bad. Is it because the Fu family isn¡¯t treating you well?"

    "....." Su Qingnuan frowned lightly and looked at Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Gu Xiaoxiao immediately stood up and shouted loudly, "Wow! ss is over!"

    As soon as she finished speaking, other people charged in, inserting themselves between Su Qingnuan and Shen Lin¡¯an.

    "What are you doing?" Ripple red angrily at the man in front of her and shouted. "Harassing female students?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an stepped back slightly, ncing around at the crowd. His cheeks flushed.

    "What are you talking about! I¡¯m justmunicating study tips with Su Qingnuan."

    "Study tips? I think you¡¯re up to no good! I¡¯m going to report you to the school for being a shady teacher!"

 Chapter 68: Mysterious Object

    <h4>Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Mysterious Object</h4><h4></h4>

    "You!" Shen Lin¡¯an pointed at Lianyi, unable to contain his anger, "You¡¯re simply unreasonable!"

    "And you are reasonable? Thinking about students in front of the teacher, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s unreasonable!"

    "....."

    Shen Lin¡¯an had never met a woman like Lianyi before, unable to argue with her or scold her, and angrily walked away.

    Seeing Shen Lin¡¯an so aggrieved for the first time, Su Qingnuanughed and gave a thumbs up.

    "Lianyi! You¡¯re amazing!"

    Lianyi brushed the stray hairs from her bangs and smiled modestly, "You¡¯re too kind. Men like him who are persistent can¡¯t be treated kindly; the more polite you are, the more presumptuous he gets!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded in agreement.

    Since then, Shen Lin¡¯an hadn¡¯t had a chance to get close to Su Qingnuan.

    Whenever he got near Su Qingnuan, Lianyi would rush over.

    Seeing Lianyi, Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s face would change drastically, and he¡¯d quickly walk away.

    Because of Lianyi¡¯s presence, the area around Su Qingnuan became much quieter.

    As thepetition time approached, Su Qingnuan faced more and more challenges, continuously deepening her explorations, expanding the range of problems she tackled more broadly.

    She also spent more and more time in Fu Yihan¡¯s room.

    One day, Su Qingnuan was working on the problems Fu Yihan left for her, while Fu Yihan stared at hisputer, working on his own tasks.

    The door suddenly opened.

    Both looked up at the same time.

    "Yo? Still not asleep?" Old Master Fu poked his head in, smiling as he looked at the two, "I heard you two have been sleepingte these days, so I brought you some fruit."

    "..." Fu Yihan closed hisputer expressionlessly, "Seems like our servants are about to lose their jobs if even the old master needs to personally deliver fruit."

    "Hey!" The old master walked in leisurely, smiling, "I just thought I hadn¡¯t seen you in days, leaving early and returningte, so I came to check on you."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "You¡¯ve seen us now, so the old master can leave, right?"

    "..."

    Facing such a cold-hearted grandson, the old master sighed softly, ced the fruit te on the table, and turned to leave.

    As the door closed, it was opened again.

    "Yuerou,e out, I have something to tell you."

    Su Qingnuan was taken aback, looking at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly, "What do you want now?"

    "Important business!"

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan¡¯s cold voice came, "Go ahead."

    It was only then that Su Qingnuan got up and followed her grandfather out.

    "Grandpa, what is it?" Su Qingnuan asked curiously.

    The old master mysteriously took something out and ced it in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    "This is something grandpa asked someone to get. I heard from the He family that it¡¯s very effective, remember to keep it with you."

    Su Qingnuan spread her hand to find it was a sachet.

    "Okay, grandpa." Su Qingnuan obediently nodded.

    "Good girl, alright, you can go back to what you were doing."

    The old master left contentedly.

    Su Qingnuan returned to the room with the sachet.

    "What did he say to you?" Fu Yihan asked coldly without lifting his head.

    Spreading open the sachet in her hand, Su Qingnuan smiled, "Nothing much, just gave me this, said it was specially requested for me."

    "Requested for you?" Fu Yihan took the sachet and examined it carefully.

    Su Qingnuan sat down and continued with her problems.

    A rustling sound suddenly came from the side, prompting Su Qingnuan to look up.

    She saw that Fu Yihan had already taken apart the sachet, revealing a yellow piece of paper.

    Unfolding the paper, the red words "May you have a son soon" clearly came into view.

    "You say this is what he got for you?" Fu Yihan smirked coldly, looking straight at her.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare take a breath, and nodded cautiously.

    "Ha!"

    With a swift tear, Fu Yihan ripped the charm paper and threw the remaining sachet back to Su Qingnuan, "Keep it."

    "...Alright."

    On the first day of the new moon, there was a sachet hanging on Su Qingnuan¡¯s backpack, looking quite out of ce.

    "What era is this, still carrying around that thing, aren¡¯t you afraid of embarrassing yourself!" Fu Yixing mocked.

    "Snap¡ª"

    A crisp sound cut off Fu Yixing¡¯s words.

    All eyes turned to Old Master Fu.

    The old master coldly red at Fu Yixing, looking displeased.

    Seeing this, Yun Meifeng quickly served the old master some food, smiling, "I think it looks nice. Although it¡¯s not used much these days, this sachet is part of our traditional craftsmanship, it¡¯s delicate! Right, Yuerou?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded repeatedly, smiling, "I like it, I¡¯ll carry it with me from now on."

    The old man¡¯s expression eased slightly and he picked up his chopsticks to continue eating.

    After this little incident, Fu Yixing dared not mock Su Qingnuan¡¯s sachet again.

    However, Gu Xiaoxiao became intrigued by the sachet and kept asking where it was bought,

    Su Qingnuan could only smile wryly in response.

    After telling Gu Xiaoxiao how she got the sachet, thetter was also left speechless.

    "I didn¡¯t expect your old master to still believe in this stuff?" Gu Xiaoxiaoughed, "My grandfather doesn¡¯t believe in it anymore."

    "Elders often enjoy these mystical things," Lianyi teased, "as long as it makes them happy."

    "That¡¯s true."

    Gu Xiaoxiao and Lianyi grew more and morepatible, even secretly adding each other as friends behind Su Qingnuan¡¯s back, connecting privately.

    Originally, Su Qingnuan sat in the middle position, but now Lianyi sat in the middle.

    Lianyi and Su Qingnuan walked in and out together, which greatly displeased Fu Yixing.

    "Forget Su Yuerou, but what¡¯s with this person? Hanging around our house all the time?" Fu Yixing furiously banged on the table photo, eyes full of anger and contempt.

    Yun Meifeng helplessly patted Fu Yixing¡¯s shoulder, "Have a ss of water, calm down."

    "I can¡¯t calm down!" Fu Yixing snapped, "You see it too, now the whole Fu family is watching those two, if they really have a child, our lives will be even harder."

    "Who told you they could have a child?" Yun Meifengughed helplessly, "My child, you¡¯re oversimplifying this."

    "Simplifying? Mom! Look how the old man is fixated on Su Yuerou, where is our chance?" He gripped Yun Meifeng¡¯s hand, looking flustered.

    "There is one." Yun Meifeng patted Fu Yixing¡¯s hand, smiling gently, "Having a child is a matter between two people; if Fu Yihan can¡¯t die, then if the other person does, the child can¡¯t be born, right?"

    "...What do you mean?"

    Yun Meifeng smiled without answering.

    Fu Yixing understood, and the previous restlessness and anxiety in his heart settled instantly.

    ...

    "Young Mistress, shall I take you?" Aqi followed behind, saying reluctantly.

    "No need!" Su Qingnuan smiled, pulling Lianyi over, "I¡¯m with Lianyi, and that ce is crowded, you won¡¯t be able to drive the car in."

    "Are you sure?" Aqi confirmed again.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, winding her arm around Lianyi as they walked forward.

    "Why didn¡¯t you let him drive you?" Lianyi asked.

 Chapter 69: Too Many People, Too Much Chatter

    <h4>Chapter 69: Chapter 69: Too Many People, Too Much Chatter</h4><h4></h4>

    "Too many people, too much chatter." Su Qingnuan said helplessly, "We¡¯re just going to thepetition, taking a taxi will be more convenient."

    Lian Yi hesitated, looking at her.

    "It¡¯s fine." Su Qingnuan chuckled softly, "Aren¡¯t you going with me? What¡¯s there to be afraid of?"

    "Alright then." Lian Yi said begrudgingly, "But Eldest Young Madam must follow me closely. If I lose you, I wouldn¡¯t dare go back!"

    "Got it!" Su Qingnuan said with a smile, looping her arm through Lian Yi¡¯s and reassured her: "I¡¯ll make sure to keep a good eye on you!"

    "Mm!"

    Thepetition venue was set at a neighboring school.

    The three of them gathered at the school gate, and then Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao entered thepetition grounds, while Lian Yi waited outside for them.

    The format of thispetition was divided into a written test and a practical test.

    The written test would eliminate a portion of the participants, while the practical test would weed out even more. Ultimately, only six people would make it to the finals.

    It was only then that participants could showcase their creativity and talent.

    For Su Qingnuan, the most challenging part was the creativity aspect.

    Although she had a firm grasp of the knowledge in the textbooks, she seldom encountered new things. So creativity, for her, remained an elusive luxury.

    "Good luck!" Gu Xiaoxiao said enthusiastically, patting Su Qingnuan on the shoulder.

    "Okay."

    The exam rooms here were all separate. Su Qingnuan entered one of the narrow rooms and sat down.

    Before long, someone brought in the test paper.

    "Begin."

    "Alright."

    The allotted time for the test was just over an hour. Su Qingnuan finished everything within an hour.

    Afterwards, she was taken to another ssroom.

    This ssroom had quite a few people¡ªabout a dozen after a careful count.

    "Now, we will proceed with the practical test."

    Following the staff¡¯s instructions, Su Qingnuan sat down and focused on her practical work.

    Thanks to her prior practice, the practical test was rtively easy.

    Once the practical round was over, Su Qingnuan was escorted out.

    Just as she reached the entrance, she saw Lian Yi stretching out her arms, waving excitedly.

    "Eldest Young Madam! Over here!"

    Su Qingnuan quickly walked over and lowered her voice: "Lian Yi! Let¡¯s discuss something. Don¡¯t call me Eldest Young Madam so loudly!"

    "Huh?" Lian Yi asked, puzzled. "Why not?"

    "...Just don¡¯t, alright?" Su Qingnuan said resignedly, "Look around, there are people everywhere. Nowadays, who still goes around calling someone Eldest Young Madam in public? Instead, just call me..."

    Su Qingnuan suddenly paused.

    If she had Lian Yi call her by her name, wouldn¡¯t her identity be exposed?

    But if she didn¡¯t, and Lian Yi kept addressing her as Eldest Young Madam, she herself couldn¡¯t stand it.

    After pondering for some time and finding no better solution, Su Qingnuan sighed and waved it off: "Forget it, just call me whatever you want!"

    "Then how about I call you Sister-inw?"

    "Hm?" Su Qingnuan looked at her in confusion.

    "Well, you see, Mr. Fu is older than me. If I call you Miss Su, it feels too distant. So why not call you Sister-inw? No one would gossip that way, right?"

    "...Alright." Facing Lian Yi¡¯s genuine expression, Su Qingnuan smiled and said, "Sister-inw it is."

    "Got it!"

    "But don¡¯t use that title back at home!" Su Qingnuan reminded cautiously.

    "Okay."

    The two of them waited outside for a while. When they saw Gu Xiaoxiaoe out, they immediately rushed up to her.

    "How did it go?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Gu Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly: "I did my best."

    Seeing her deted expression, Su Qingnuan quickly said, "It¡¯s okay! There¡¯s still hope."

    Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled softly, looping her arm through Su Qingnuan¡¯s: "It¡¯s alright. I mainly came to keep youpany. As long as you have hope, then there¡¯s hope."

    "Don¡¯t say that." Su Qingnuan frowned, "I hope we can both make it to the finals."

    "Alright then!" Gu Xiaoxiao beamed, "The list for the finals won¡¯t be announced until tomorrow. Since we¡¯re not in a bad mood yet, let¡¯s go have a feast first!"

    "Yay!" Lian Yi responded enthusiastically.

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s not-too-disheartened expression, Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled, "Let¡¯s go."

    The three of themughed and chatted as they left the building. However, just as they reached the exit, they saw a somewhat familiar figure.

    The three of them stopped simultaneously. Lian Yi stood at the front with a frown: "What do you want?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an ignored her, his eyes fixed on Su Qingnuan behind her.

    "Qingnuan, how did it go today?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at him briefly, her expression indifferent: "Not bad."

    "From the way you¡¯re saying it, it sounds like you have a chance of making it to the finals?"

    "Not sure." Su Qingnuan looked away, "That¡¯s something for the final results to determine."

    Her cold demeanor stung Shen Lin¡¯an deeply.

    Clenching his teeth, Shen Lin¡¯an continued, "Qingnuan, I¡¯d like to take you out for a meal."

    "No need." Su Qingnuan, still holding Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s arm, smiled and said, "We already made prior ns."

    Shen Lin¡¯an chuckled lightly: "Then let¡¯s do it tomorrow."

    "...Tomorrow we still have..."

    "Or perhaps you¡¯d prefer for my father to invite you personally?" Shen Lin¡¯an interrupted her rudely.

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, her eyes showing surprise.

    "What do you mean?" she asked.

    Shen Lin¡¯an smiled faintly, seemingly pleased: "My father is very concerned about you and hopes to see you."

    "If he wants to see me, he can contact me directly." Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, "There¡¯s no need for you to ry the message."

    "Qingnuan..." Shen Lin¡¯an sighed helplessly, "You know your family¡¯s situation. If he coulde to see you openly, why would he need to go through me?"

    "..."

    Her family had always been dictated by that woman. If she didn¡¯t want her father toe, there was nothing he could do.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, the word "father" tugging at her emotions.

    Shen Lin¡¯an clearly noticed her wavering and pressed on: "If you¡¯re unsure, you can call my father to confirm. Though he might not tell you the truth."

    "..."

    Her hand instinctively reached into her pocket, feeling the hard edge of her phone, but shecked the courage to take it out.

    Did he really want to see her?

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but wonder¡ªshould she give him a chance?

    "Qingnuan, how about..."

    "No need!" Lian Yi intercepted Shen Lin¡¯an, her tone severe: "Whether Eldest Young Madam sees her parents or not is her own business. She doesn¡¯t need you interfering. Now move along!"

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression darkened, his gaze shadowed with anger.

    "Didn¡¯t you understand what I said?" Lian Yi tilted her head back, a mocking smile on her face, "Or are you saying that the great Eldest Young Master of the Shen family can¡¯t find a wife and has to stoop to stealing someone else¡¯s?"

    "Watch your mouth!"

    Shen Lin¡¯an, who valued his reputation above all, flushed with anger at her words.

    "I¡¯m just speaking the truth!" Lian Yi said seriously, staring him down. "If you disagree, then leave now! Stop standing here and bothering us."

    "..."

    Shen Lin¡¯an gritted his teeth in frustration, pointing at Lian Yi, too furious to form a rebuttal.

    "You should go." Su Qingnuan suddenly spoke, "I¡¯ll reach out to Father myself."

 Chapter 70 Father and Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 70: Chapter 70 Father and Daughter</h4><h4></h4>

    "Really?" Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression suddenly brightened, even showing a hint of delight. "Then let me know the time and I¡¯ll pick up your father."

    "Mm."

    This time, Shen Lin¡¯an didn¡¯t linger around like a clingy ster; he left on his own.

    "Madam!" Lianyi pressed down on Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder, looking at her disapprovingly.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "It¡¯s fine. I know what I¡¯m doing."

    After all, he was her father. If it weren¡¯t for his care all these years, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t even know how she¡¯d managed to get by.

    Upon hearing her words, Lianyi sighed silently and said no more.

    The three still went out for a good meal, but on the way back, Lianyi remained mostly quiet.

    "Lianyi." Su Qingnuan ced her hand over Lianyi¡¯s, smiling lightly. "Do you think I¡¯m useless?"

    Lianyi paused, nced at her, but didn¡¯t refute.

    Su Qingnuan looked out the window and let out a softugh. "Actually, all these years, the only person in the Su family who cared for me was my father. I don¡¯t know why my mother hates me, but I know that family has never weed me."

    Her hand carried a coolness that seeped into the heart.

    Lianyi frowned slightly, tightening her grip on Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand and murmured, "Sister-inw, you¡¯re wonderful."

    Su Qingnuan turned her head to nce at their sped hands and sighed. "If only you were my sister, that would¡¯ve been great."

    "....."

    Lianyi didn¡¯t respond, she simply gripped Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand even more firmly.

    Before long, they arrived at home.

    After stepping off the car, Su Qingnuan suddenly stopped, pulling Lianyi to a halt.

    "Sister-inw, what¡¯s wrong?"

    Under the faint glow of the night, Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes shimmered with a weak gleam. She hesitated before saying, "About me meeting my father, don¡¯t tell Mr. Fu."

    "Huh? Why?" Lianyi asked curiously. "Aren¡¯t you nning to bring Mr. Fu along?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head.

    They weren¡¯t even in a normal husband-and-wife rtionship. Bringing Fu Yihan along to meet her father felt strange.

    "Alright then...."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan smiled and said, "Let¡¯s go inside."

    "Okay."

    The Fu household tonight was eerily quiet. Neither Fu Yixing nor Old Master Fu was in sight.

    Su Qingnuan tidied her belongings and went upstairs. Pushing the door open, she saw Fu Yihan seated on the sofa.

    "You¡¯re back." A-Qi beside him softly remarked.

    Su Qingnuan walked over and saw that Fu Yihan was sketching a blueprint, her curiosity piqued. "Mr. Fu, what design are you working on?"

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes and looked at her calmly.

    Su Qingnuan stiffened slightly, realizing something, and quickly straightened her posture, tightly clenching her hands.

    "I heard you didn¡¯t let A-Qi drive you today?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "Yes...." Su Qingnuan nodded, awkwardlyughing. "I was meeting with too many ssmates, Mr. Fu, your car...."

    That car may have looked understated on the outside, but the brand was overly shy. Riding it to school, she couldn¡¯t even imagine what others might think!

    "Don¡¯t like it?" Fu Yihan nced at A-Qi.

    A-Qi caught on and nodded, turning to Su Qingnuan. "Madam, tomorrow I wille early to take you to the garage so you can pick a car."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan hurriedly waved her hands. "That¡¯s not necessary, I¡¯m just going...."

    "It is necessary."

    Fu Yihan lowered his head again to focus on his work, but his words didn¡¯t pause. "You are now the Madam of the Fu family. Outside these walls, everything you do represents the Fu family. Bringing disgrace upon the Su family is fine, but you will not bring shame to our Fu family."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan forced a smile and said, "Alright, I understand."

    After that, Fu Yihan said no more, and Su Qingnuan took her belongings and returned to her room.

    Shey on the bed, her mind upied with thoughts about what to say to her father tomorrow, and fell asleep unknowingly.

    On the new moon day, Su Qingnuan woke early, choosing a gentle outfit and putting on makeup before stepping out of her room.

    Coincidentally, Fu Yihan passed by. Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head and stepped aside, waiting for him to leave first.

    Fu Yihan yawned idly, ncing at her briefly before turning away. He paused, then looked again.

    The slender figure standing tall, her face adorned with light makeup. A face usually devoid of color now bore a rosy glow, looking unexpectedly alluring.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression instantly cooled.

    He locked the wheelchair in ce and stared at Su Qingnuan for a while.

    Su Qingnuan felt her whole body stiffening, unsure of what he was observing, so she stood obediently.

    "Dressed up like a peacock in heat. Got ns?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan thought for a moment, then smiled and nodded. "Meeting ssmates for dinner."

    "Male ssmate?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an.....

    Could be considered a male ssmate?

    Su Qingnuan hesitated but nodded.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression grew darker. Eyeing her makeup, he frowned and said, "Dressed like this. It¡¯s an embarrassment. Change."

    "..."

    She had looked in the mirror earlier; clearly, it was still good-looking. How was it ugly?

    "Why are you still standing there? Go!" Fu Yihan¡¯s voice rose sharply.

    Su Qingnuan quickly turned back to her room.

    She changed into a in white dress before stepping out again.

    Thinking Fu Yihan had already left, she didn¡¯t expect him to still be outside, his gaze steadily fixed in her direction.

    Su Qingnuan awkwardly smiled and stepped forward.

    Unknown to her, d in her pure white dress, with her now rosyplexion, her smile looked even more captivating now.

    His already displeased expression turned to stormy anger.

    "Change again."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan changed into two or three more dresses before Fu Yihan finally lost patience, ordering outright that she wasn¡¯t allowed to wear dresses.

    Though puzzled, Su Qingnuan obediently swapped her dress for a simple white T-shirt and jeans.

    Seeing her changed outfit, Fu Yihan appeared satisfied.

    "Let¡¯s go." He said to A-Qi.

    A-Qi nodded and began pushing Fu Yihan out the door.

    Watching them finally leave, Su Qingnuan breathed a sigh of relief.

    ...

    In the ssroom, Su Qingnuan greeted Gu Xiaoxiao with a smile.

    Gu Xiaoxiao studied Su Qingnuan for a moment beforeughing. "Why are you dressed so...."

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Su Qingnuan asked puzzled, looking down at her attire. "Is something wrong with my outfit today? Why is everyonementing on what I wear?"

    "Everyone?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked curiously. "Who else?"

    Su Qingnuan rolled her eyes and sat down. "The person I share a household registry with. This morning, he fussed about my clothes for ages. He seemed really unhappy with what I wore."

    "So he picked this outfit?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked with augh.

    "Mm."

    "Hahaha!" Gu Xiaoxiao burst outughing, pping the table.

    Her exaggeratedughter drew annoyed nces from the front row.

    Su Qingnuan quickly tugged at her, apologizing profusely to the front row.

    Gu Xiaoxiao covered her mouth, suppressing herughter, and said patiently, "But honestly, you definitely look better in skirts than in this outfit."

    "..."

    And here she thought Fu Yihan¡¯s taste would be refined. Turns out it wasn¡¯t all that impressive after all!

    Absolutely won¡¯t listen to him next time. Today¡¯s meeting with her father required a more elegant appearance.

 Chapter 71 Child, Father Apologizes to You

    <h4>Chapter 71: Chapter 71 Child, Father Apologizes to You</h4><h4></h4>

    After ss, Su Qingnuan received a message from Shen Lin¡¯an.

    Shen Lin¡¯an: I¡¯m waiting for you at the school gate.

    Quickly packing up her things, Su Qingnuan nced at Gu Xiaoxiao. "I didn¡¯t bring Lianyi today; no one will y with you. I¡¯m heading out first."

    "Hey!" Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm and softly said, "If anything happens, make sure to call me, okay?"

    Su Qingnuan looked at her, touched. "Got it, thank you."

    "Why are you being so polite with me? Hurry up and go!"

    Su Qingnuan walked out of the ssroom quickly, her heart pounding heavily, the sound echoing loudly.

    She knew it was excitement.

    The doctor had warned Su Qingnuan to minimize feelings of excitement and anger, but at the thought of seeing that person, she couldn¡¯t help herself.

    Pressing down on her violently beating heart, Su Qingnuan saw Shen Lin¡¯an and the car behind him at the school gate.

    "Where¡¯s everyone?" Su Qingnuan peered into the car¡ªit was empty.

    "They¡¯re waiting for us at the hotel," Shen Lin¡¯an opened the car door with a smile. "Let¡¯s go."

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t immediately get into the car but instead sent a message to the other side.

    Su¡¯s father responded quickly¡ªalmost instantly.

    Su Father: I¡¯m waiting for you at the hotel. Come quickly.

    After receiving the message, Su Qingnuan no longer hesitated and got into the car.

    The car ride was quiet. From school to the hotel, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t say a word to Shen Lin¡¯an.

    At the hotel entrance, the doorman escorted them to the second floor.

    As she pushed open the private room door and looked inside, she saw one person immediately.

    Su¡¯s father stood up¡ªhis body, after days of not meeting, had thinned significantly.

    "Dad!" Su Qingnuan rushed over and hugged Su¡¯s father tightly.

    Su¡¯s father looked at the daughter in his arms with pity, letting out a deep sigh. "Child, you¡¯ve suffered."

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, wiped her tears, and smiled. "I¡¯m doing well now."

    Su¡¯s father looked her over and chuckled lightly. "You seem to have gained some weight."

    During this time, being fed by the Fu family¡¯s kitchen truly had fattened her up a bit.

    But her health had always been poor. No matter how much she ate, she couldn¡¯t absorb much nutrition. Perhaps in the days ahead, eating a lot still wouldn¡¯t help her gain weight.

    "Sit down." Su¡¯s father pressed Su Qingnuan into a seat, holding her hand and poking it helplessly a couple of times. "Why is it still so cold?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled wryly. "I didn¡¯t bring a hand warmer today¡ªit¡¯s too cold."

    "So excited?" Su¡¯s father chuckled lightly. "Dad brought you a gift this time on his business trip."

    "A gift?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes lit up even more brightly, looking at her father with delight.

    "Yes, a gift." Su¡¯s father took a small box out of the bag behind him and ced it in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    Su¡¯s father gently patted her hand, smiling. "It¡¯ll be your birthday in a few days. Dad likely won¡¯t be able to celebrate it with you; this is an early birthday gift."

    Her smile faltered for a moment. Su Qingnuan lowered her head, fiddling with the box in her hands repeatedly.

    "You can¡¯t celebrate my birthday with me?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    "That¡¯s right." Su¡¯s father sighed helplessly. "You¡¯re with your husband¡¯s family now; they¡¯ll celebrate with you. Besides, you know your mother¡¯s temper... If..."

    Su Qingnuan stopped listening to the rest of the sentence.

    She should¡¯ve known better than to cling to hope by now.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and put the gift away.

    "Thank you, Dad. Let¡¯s eat first; the dishes will get cold."

    "Alright, alright! Come, let¡¯s eat!"

    Beside them, Shen Lin¡¯an enthusiastically poured drinks for the pair and kept interjecting into their conversation.

    Though Su Qingnuan was unhappy inside, she didn¡¯t say anything.

    After the meal, Su Qingnuan intended to ask her father to walk with her for a bit, but his phone rang.

    "Hello?" Su¡¯s father discreetly walked to the balcony.

    Separated by the ss, Su Qingnuan watched him patiently exchange words with someone on the other end of the line.

    After a long while, Su¡¯s father finally hung up and walked back inside.

    He picked up his bag, looking at Su Qingnuan helplessly.

    "Qingnuan, your mother is urging me to return."

    Su Qingnuan pulled a smile at the corners of her lips, forcing herself to lookposed. "You should go."

    Su¡¯s father looked at her worriedly. "Should I call Fu Yihan toe pick you up?"

    "No!"

    "No."

    Both voices spoke simultaneously. Su Qingnuan turned her head to look at Shen Lin¡¯an.

    Shen Lin¡¯an smiled. "Uncle, don¡¯t you trust me? I¡¯ll make sure to bring Qingnuan back safely."

    Su¡¯s father didn¡¯t say anything; his gaze shifted to Su Qingnuan, as if seeking her confirmation.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and nodded. "It¡¯s alright. Brother Lin¡¯an will take me back."

    "Alright then. Qingnuan, Dad is leaving first."

    "Okay."

    "Bang¡ª"

    The private room door closed, and the smile on Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips faded along with it.

    "Qingnuan, don¡¯t be sad." Shen Lin¡¯an handed her a tissue.

    Su Qingnuan used her hand to wipe the dampness at the corner of her eye, then stood up and walked toward the exit.

    "Hey, hey! Qingnuan!" Shen Lin¡¯an hurriedly stopped her, helplessly saying, "I promised your father to take you home."

    Su Qingnuan nced at him coldly and said, "Then let¡¯s go. I want to go home."

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression shifted slightly, but he said nothing in the end. He grabbed his coat and bag, following behind Su Qingnuan as she walked out.

    Once in the car, Su Qingnuan closed her eyes.

    She was reminiscing.

    Soothing music flowed through the car, like water gently brushing against Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart.

    "Qingnuan," Shen Lin¡¯an suddenly spoke.

    Su Qingnuan kept her eyes closed, saying nothing.

    "Are you asleep?"

    She still didn¡¯t respond.

    Not receiving any response, Shen Lin¡¯an said no more.

    But when the car stopped, just as Su Qingnuan thought he was about to do something, she felt a faint weight settle on her shoulders.

    It was light but carried warmth.

    "You know your health isn¡¯t good, yet you still insist on being willful." Shen Lin¡¯an sighed softly. "You never give others peace of mind."

    His words felt oddly familiar, bringing back memories from many years ago.

    Back then, Su Qingnuan was only as tall as a table. She fell off a chair trying to get a piece of cake.

    Shen Lin¡¯an had stared at her with the same helpless yet indulgent smile, picking her up and treating her wounds.

    At that time, Shen Lin¡¯an was the only source offort in Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart.

    But now, Shen Lin¡¯an...

    The car moved again, advancing at a steady pace.

    When it stopped again, Su Qingnuan had already opened her eyes.

    "We¡¯ve arrived," Shen Lin¡¯an said.

    Su Qingnuan gave a soft "Mm" and opened the car door.

    "Qingnuan." Shen Lin¡¯an grabbed her hand and hesitantly asked, "Is there really no way for us to return to the way things were?"

    Su Qingnuan turned back to look at his hand and suddenly smiled.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an, can you truly ept a woman who¡¯s been married before? Can your family ept her?"

    Shen Lin¡¯an froze, his grip on her hand loosening.

    Without any affection, she brushed his hand aside and stepped out of the car.

    Standing outside the vehicle, Su Qingnuan quietly watched Shen Lin¡¯an, observing his despondence, confusion, and panic.

    "Shen Lin¡¯an," Su Qingnuan smiled softly, "through all these years, aside from my father, you¡¯ve been the only one who¡¯s been kind to me. I¡¯ll always remember your kindness. But please, don¡¯t let me down again."

    "..."

 Chapter 72 The Fu Familyéˆ¥æªš Face

    <h4>Chapter 72: Chapter 72 The Fu Family¡¯s Face</h4><h4></h4>

    The room was pitch-dark, and the living room was empty.

    Su Qingnuan tiptoed upstairs, carefully pushing the door open without making a sound.

    The room inside was also enveloped in darkness. Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief and cautiously stepped inside.

    "Click¡ª"

    A blinding light flickered on, and Su Qingnuan, who was closing the door, froze in ce.

    "Back early, huh?"

    A voice dripping with sarcasm, tinged with anger.

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, turned around, and lowered her head. "Mr. Fu, I¡¯m sorry, I came backte."

    Seeing her outfit neat and tidy, Fu Yihan¡¯s hardened expression softened slightly.

    "Come here."

    Su Qingnuan walked over, obediently standing beside him.

    "Who did you have dinner with today?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment, awkwardly twisting her wrist.

    Seeing her silent, Fu Yihan tapped the table twice¡ªneither too softly nor too hard.

    "Speak!"

    His tone was stern, his gaze icy.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head, countless images shing through her mind in an instant.

    What would happen if she told the truth?

    Logically, she shouldn¡¯t face any consequences. But...

    "Nothing... I just went out for dinner with a ssmate."

    "ssmate?" A cold scoff, followed by a "p" as several photographs spilled onto the table. "Are these the ssmates you speak of?"

    The faces of two people clearly disyed in the photos made Su Qingnuan¡¯s body tremble slightly.

    Her head bowed even lower.

    "He... He¡¯s now our teacher. We only went out for a meal together."

    "Besides him, who else was there?"

    "Also..." Su Qingnuan cautiously lifted her head, carefully observing Fu Yihan¡¯s expression.

    However, his gaze dropped, his expression unreadable.

    "Also my father."

    Her voice was so quiet when she spoke that sentence, yet Fu Yihan heard it clearly.

    "Your father?" Fu Yihan lifted his head, his expression darkening momentarily.

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan nodded timidly and said carefully, "Shen Lin¡¯an told me my father wants to see me, so he asked me to go out."

    "Why didn¡¯t he contact you directly?" Fu Yihan asked again.

    Su Qingnuan opened her mouth, unsure of how to exin.

    The affairs of her family weren¡¯t something that could be exined in just a few words.

    "Using Shen Lin¡¯an to contact you, huh? What¡¯s next? Does Shen Lin¡¯an have a good rtionship with your family?"

    "...Just like an older brother who grew up with me." Su Qingnuan replied softly.

    "Older brother?" Fu Yihan sneered, "An ¡¯older brother¡¯ who hurls insults at you? Or did I mishear things that day?"

    Su Qingnuan fell silent.

    Fu Yihan raised his gaze to her pale face and let out a coldugh. "I warned you before. You are the eldest young mistress of the Fu family. When you step out, you represent the Fu family. Photos like these, if they circte, are you trying to disgrace the Fu family?"

    Her already paleplexion grew increasingly ashen.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head in shame and bowed. "I¡¯m sorry. I was inconsiderate this time. It won¡¯t happen again."

    "Won¡¯t happen again?" Fu Yihan¡¯s smile turned uglier. "If this happens again, our contract will be immediately terminated. You know the consequences of breaching the contract."

    "...Understood."

    Leaving the table littered with photos and an oppressive silence behind, Fu Yihan turned away and entered his room.

    "Click."

    The sound of the door closing echoed, and Su Qingnuan slowly raised her head.

    Tears had welled up at the corners of her eyes and slid silently down her face.

    Before doing all this, she had never thought it would touch upon matters of pride and reputation. Her only thought was simply to meet the remaining member of her family.

    Instead of the closeness she had hoped for, she returned only to be severely scolded.

    Unable to hold back any longer, her tears streamed down uncontrobly.

    Su Qingnuan wiped her tears away, bent down to pick up the photos, and then returned to her room.

    She cut the photos into tiny pieces with scissors, watching them turn into fragments before finally putting them aside.

    Her eyes felt sticky from crying so much, yet there were no tears left to shed.

    Looking at herself in the mirror, her eyes were red and swollen, her face stark white.

    Suddenly, Su Qingnuan took one step closer to the mirror, staring intently at her own dark pupils.

    "Su Qingnuan, you can¡¯t live like this!" She clenched her teeth and said, "You have to create your own life! You can¡¯t keep letting others lead you by the nose!"

    She nodded firmly to the reflection in the mirror.

    Looking at the defeated person inside the mirror transform anew, Su Qingnuan grabbed her clothes and headed to take a shower.

    She hadn¡¯t expected that when she opened the door, she¡¯d see Fu Yihan sitting in the living room.

    "...Mr. Fu."

    Her tone sank into defeat again.

    Fu Yihan nced at her, his face expressionless. "Come here."

    Carrying her clothes, she shuffled over in small steps. As she got closer, a fragrant aroma wafted toward her.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but take a sniff¡ªit smelled like barbecue.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked in surprise. "Ah Qi must have gotten it wrong. You can¡¯t eat things like this."

    Fu Yihan had always adhered to a simple, light diet.

    Barbecue, with its heavy vors, wasn¡¯t good for his health.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and shot her a re.

    "Don¡¯t meddle. Sit down."

    Familiar with his tone, Su Qingnuan heaved a quiet sigh and sat down obediently.

    Seeing her settle down, Fu Yihan gestured to the box beside them.

    "Eat."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, puzzled, and looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan raised his brows. "Do you need me to feed you?"

    "...No."

    Cautiously picking up a skewer, Su Qingnuan asked nervously, "Mr. Fu, why did you suddenly want to eat barbecue?"

    He didn¡¯t respond, his gaze fixed ahead.

    The massive television across from the sofa was turned on, but the volume was so low as to be nearly mute.

    He appeared to be watching intently, but the television channel ying was nothing more than a shoppingwork.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan tried to probe again.

    Fu Yihan abruptly turned his head, his piercing gaze locking onto her.

    "I told you to eat. Why are you asking so many pointless questions?"

    "..."

    His tone was brash and domineering.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare say anything more and focused on eating in silence.

    The spicy vor tingled her taste buds. Su Qingnuan wanted to open her mouth and pant for relief, but with Fu Yihan sitting nearby, she didn¡¯t dare make a sound.

    Little did she know that each of her actions was quietly scrutinized by Fu Yihan.

    Watching her face flush bright red from the heat, his lips couldn¡¯t help but curl slightly into a faint smile.

    "There¡¯s water in the fridge."

    Su Qingnuan blinked, then quickly got up and walked toward the small refrigerator in the room.

    The refrigerator was prepared especially for Fu Yihan. Given his health, it was troublesome for him to go downstairs for water, so they had arranged a mini fridge upstairs.

    Taking a drink, Su Qingnuan finally felt like she was alive again.

    After eating a few more skewers, she couldn¡¯t eat any more.

    "Mr. Fu... I¡¯m finished," Su Qingnuan murmured softly.

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan turned his attention to the table before him.

    Only half had been eaten, yet the number of napkins used far exceeded the number of skewers consumed.

    Fu Yihan nced at her. Her lips were a bright red, glowing faintly under the light.

    Maybe it was still too spicy, as even now Su Qingnuan was trying to recover.

    "Too spicy?"

    Even as the words left his mouth, Fu Yihan paused, startled. Why did he care about her for no reason?

    This chapter is updated by freew(e)bnovel.(c)om

 Chapter 73 Good Stuff

    <h4>Chapter 73: Chapter 73 Good Stuff</h4><h4></h4>

    "I can¡¯t handle spicy food very well," Su Qingnuan said with a bitter smile.

    Fu Yihan chuckled inwardly but kept his expression neutral.

    "Watch some TV, then go to sleep," Fu Yihan said.

    Su Qingnuan nodded quickly. "Okay."

    Fu Yihan maneuvered his wheelchair and headed into his room.

    Watching his retreating figure, Su Qingnuan felt momentarily confused.

    Why is he here? Just to give her food?

    Though, the grilled skewers really weren¡¯t bad. A bit on the spicy side, but their vor was top-notch.

    After eating her fill, all the worries clouding her mind seemed to dissipate.

    Su Qingnuan, in a cheerful mood, watched some TV, took a bath, andy down to rest.

    The saying "eat well, sleep well" truly couldn¡¯t be more urate.

    She fell asleep almost as soon as her head hit the pillow. When she woke, it was already the following morning.

    ncing at the time, Su Qingnuan got up in a hurry, tidied up, grabbed her backpack, and dashed outside.

    "Ma¡¯am!" Ah Qi called out to Su Qingnuan, his tone serious. "The Eldest Young Master instructed me to take you to school."

    Su Qingnuan paused and turned her head to look at Fu Yihan¡¯s room.

    The door was shut¡ªhe must not be awake yet.

    "Alright."

    She still remembered what Fu Yihan had saidst night: not to disgrace the Fu family.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s health had recovered fully, and so Lian Yi no longer needed to apany her.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was not too thrilled about this development.

    "You¡¯re nowhere near as fun as Lian Yi," Gu Xiaoxiao remarked.

    Su Qingnuan lightly tapped her on the forehead and sighed, "You¡¯re here to study, not to have fun."

    "Does it matter?" Gu Xiaoxiao lifted her hand, yfully tilting Su Qingnuan¡¯s chin. "Learning while having fun¡ªisn¡¯t that the best way?"

    "It is," Su Qingnuan nodded in mild agreement and smiled. "I¡¯ll pass along your longing to Lian Yi. Now get to ss."

    Gu Xiaoxiao pouted but said nothing further.

    In the afternoon during training, the teacher at the podium was reced by an elder with graying temple hair.

    Having grown ustomed to Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s refined demeanor, many of the girls in the department were disheartened, though most remained outwardly indifferent.

    After ss, Gu Xiaoxiao leaned close to Su Qingnuan¡¯s ear and whispered, "What¡¯s going on? Shen Lin¡¯an isn¡¯t leading us anymore?"

    "No idea," Su Qingnuan replied matter-of-factly. "Maybe he had a change of heart."

    "That easily?"

    "Who knows?"

    "..."

    After finishing her sses at school, Su Qingnuan was on her way home when she began rummaging through her backpack.

    Seeing her movements through the rearview mirror, Ah Qi asked, "Ma¡¯am, did you drop something?"

    "Huh? Ah..." Su Qingnuan kept her head lowered and mumbled, "Nothing important. It¡¯s fine."

    The thing the Elder had given herst night¡ªwhy was it missing?

    She must¡¯ve left it at home. After all, she¡¯d noticed nothing of the sort when packing her bag earlier today. It must still be inside.

    With that in mind, Su Qingnuan stopped searching and sat quietly.

    The car pulled up at the Fu family residence.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly got out and walked inside.

    As she passed through the living room, she noticed quite a few people sitting there, the atmosphere considerably tense.

    She slowed her pace, treading lightly.

    "Qingnuan!"

    Su Qingnuan immediately straightened her posture and nced toward the living room.

    "Auntie," she responded obediently.

    "Come over here," Yun Meifeng said with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan walked over.

    Besides Yun Meifeng, Fu Yixing and several servants were also present in the living room.

    "Sit here," Yun Meifeng said, gesturing to the spot beside her with a warm smile.

    Su Qingnuan smiled softly and took a seat.

    "Qingnuan," Yun Meifeng pointed to items on the table and smiled. "Is this yours?"

    Following her gaze, Su Qingnuan froze momentarily.

    It was a small vial with English writing on its surface. At a nce, she couldn¡¯t make out what it was.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s English was decent. After a brief inspection, she understood.

    "It¡¯s not mine," she shook her head and replied.

    Yun Meifeng smiled faintly as though in thought and turned to the servant behind her.

    "Did you hear that? The Young Mistress says it¡¯s not hers."

    "We clearly saw that the Young Mistress dropped it," one servant stepped forward, speaking with a tinge of grievance.

    Su Qingnuan paused and looked at her in confusion.

    "You saw me drop it?" she asked.

    The servant nodded firmly, eyes filled with certainty. "This morning, when you left, it fell from you."

    "..."

    Recalling whether she had dropped anything that morning, Su Qingnuan came to a negative conclusion.

    She was certain she hadn¡¯t dropped anything today.

    "This isn¡¯t mine," Su Qingnuan said, frowning.

    Yun Meifeng shot a sharp nce at the servant, her gaze growing more severe. "Do you know the consequences of using your master in the Fu household?"

    "Thud¡ª"

    The silence broke as the servant dropped to her knees, bowing low to the ground.

    "Madam, I swear I saw this, and I wouldn¡¯t dare utter a single lie!"

    Her panicked demeanor left Su Qingnuan stunned as well.

    This wasn¡¯t even that serious¡ªwhy was she so afraid?

    "Auntie," Su Qingnuan asked cautiously, "What¡¯s the matter with this vial? Has someone already used it?"

    Yun Meifeng brushed aside strands of hair at her temples and sighed. "You don¡¯t know, but traces of this substance were found in Yixing¡¯s water cup. If he had actually consumed it, the consequences would¡¯ve been..."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t expected such a twist.

    The drug was one that stimted excitement. If Fu Yixing had taken it, the woman in the household would likely be left in utter disaster.

    Frowning slightly, Su Qingnuan said gravely, "If that¡¯s the case, then we must find out who brought this drug here."

    "Exactly!" Yun Meifeng said with a faint smile. "That¡¯s why we asked the servants¡ªthey imed you had dropped it. So we waited for you to return and asked you directly."

    She dropped it?

    Su Qingnuan nced at the row of servants behind her and chuckled.

    "As I recall, there are security cameras in the living room. If I dropped it, wouldn¡¯t checking the footage resolve the matter?"

    "That¡¯s right!" Fu Yixing said with a sly smile as he looked at her. "Checking the footage will settle it."

    The living room cameras were managed by the butler.

    Calling the butler over, the group followed him into the monitoring room.

    The monitoring room contained over a dozen screens showing different feeds. Only one was focused on the living room.

    "This one," Fu Yixing said, pointing to that screen. "Pull up today¡¯s footage and y it."

    "Understood."

    Starting from 6 a.m., numerous individuals were seen passing through the living room, but none dropped anything.

    It wasn¡¯t until Su Qingnuan passed through that a small object fell to the ground as she walked.

    "Pause!"

    The frame froze, and Fu Yixing pointed to the object now lying on the tiled floor. "That¡¯s it."

    Su Qingnuan stared wide-eyed at the footage, scrutinizing the object for a while before hesitantly asking, "Are you sure this is the vial?"

    "It is!" The servant who had spoken earlier nodded hastily, her urgency apparent. "I picked it up, opened it, and that¡¯s what it was!"

    "..."

 Chapter 74: Ignorance is No Defense

    <h4>Chapter 74: Chapter 74: Ignorance is No Defense</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan was a little dazed. Looking at the packaging, it was clearly something sent to her by Mr. Fu. How could it turn out to be that kind of drug?

    No! Impossible!

    Su Qingnuan turned to the servant and asked urgently, "Are you sure what you picked up inside is that?"

    "Yes!" The servant nodded emphatically. "It¡¯s definitely that, without question."

    For a moment, no one spoke. The only sound was Su Qingnuan¡¯s heavy breathing.

    After a long silence, Yun Meifeng finally spoke.

    "This matter is very serious. We should wait for the old master to return before discussing it further."

    "Wait for the old master to return?" Fu Yixing sneered, "Handling her now might still leave her with a life. If the old master finds out, I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll kill her on the spot."

    "Yixing!" Yun Meifeng nced at him helplessly, lowering her voice. "Don¡¯t talk nonsense."

    Fu Yixing let out a cold snort and walked out first.

    Seeing this, the others followed him out.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s head was still spinning. Watching the scenes rey over and over in her mind, she was momentarily speechless.

    If that truly came from the old master, then Su Qingnuanpletely understood his intentions.

    But why would Fu Yixing end up drinking that drug?

    Could it be...

    Su Qingnuan abruptly turned her head and looked in the direction of the departing crowd.

    The servant who had been kneeling and begging for mercy earlier was nowughing and chatting with herpanion as if nothing was amiss.

    After a long silence, Su Qingnuan took out her phone.

    Staring at that person¡¯s phone number, Su Qingnuan shut her eyes tightly and pressed the dial button, gritting her teeth.

    ...

    The atmosphere in the living room was extremely heavy. Su Qingnuan sat alone on a sofa, quietly watching the mother and son duo across from her.

    Ever since they came out of the surveince room, the group had been staring at her, stopping her from doing anything but sitting and waiting for the old master to return.

    "Calling me back in such a hurry ¨C what¡¯s the matter?"

    Mr. Fu¡¯s booming voice rang out, drawing everyone¡¯s attention.

    The old master, carrying his briefcase, headed for the sofa.

    Seeing their solemn expressions, he couldn¡¯t help but furrow his brows.

    "Why the long faces? What happened?"

    Fu Yixing quickly grabbed the medicine bottle from the table and handed it to the old master.

    "Grandpa, look! I nearly took this medicine today!"

    The old master took the bottle, examined it carefully, and, without betraying any emotion, gave Su Qingnuan a subtle nce.

    "Grandpa, do you know what kind of drug this is?" Fu Yixing asked.

    The old master shook his head, replying solemnly: "I don¡¯t. What kind of drug is it?"

    "... Aphrodisiac."

    "..." The old master quickly put the bottle down, cleared his throat, and said dryly, "Is that so? Why would there be this kind of drug in the house? Did you want to take it?"

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing broke in anxiously, cutting off the old man¡¯s teasing. He continued seriously, "Do you know what would¡¯ve happened if I had taken this drug?"

    "I do." Sitting upright with a serious expression, the old master gave Su Qingnuan another nce. "Why are you sitting here?"

    Su Qingnuan straightened her back, ready to speak.

    "This drug was found on her."

    Stealing her moment, Fu Yixing interjected first. Left with no choice, Su Qingnuan nodded helplessly.

    "I identally dropped it this morning when I went out."

    Mr. Fu looked at her with an inscrutable expression. "Do you know what this is?"

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head, replying, "I hadn¡¯t even opened the packaging when it fell out."

    The old master let out a relieved breath, then mmed his hand on the table, roaring, "Who would use tricks like this to seduce the second young master? This must be investigated thoroughly today!"

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing snapped angrily, "She says she doesn¡¯t know, and you just believe her? I think she did it on purpose!"

    The old master shot him a sharp look, lowering his voice: "She¡¯s your sister-inw. Do you understand the implications of what you¡¯re saying?"

    "Of course I understand!" Fu Yixing¡¯s voice grew louder. "Grandpa, we can¡¯t let someone with questionable morals stay in this family, can we?"

    The old master paused, frowning at him. "Are you suspecting she drugged you?"

    "Isn¡¯t it obvious?" Fu Yixing frowned back and locked eyes with the old master. "When the drug was found, the cup of water had already been brought to me. If it weren¡¯t for the servant sensing something was wrong and stopping me, then by now..."

    His words trailed off as his face grew heavier.

    Su Qingnuan nced at him, calm andposed.

    Although there was surveince footage, his words were riddled with contradictions. Even the old master might not believe him.

    "When you put it that way, it does seem suspicious." The old master frowned as he sat down.

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned and quickly stood up: "Grandpa, this is really¡ª"

    "I know!" The old master interrupted her sharply, his voice firm. "If you didn¡¯t do it, Grandpa will ensure justice is served for you."

    "... Alright."

    Sitting back down, Su Qingnuan quietly watched the old master.

    "Grandpa, what justice? Your grandson almost fell victim to someone¡¯s scheme, and yet you¡¯re still shielding her?" Fu Yixing couldn¡¯t hold back his anger anymore. With his finger pointing at Su Qingnuan, he bellowed, "Are you saying even my words, as your flesh and blood, are questionable to you?"

    "... I¡¯m not shielding her." The old master rubbed his hand and stood up. "Here¡¯s what we¡¯ll do: first, let me see the surveince footage. That water cup ¨C is it still preserved? Have someone analyze it."

    "Everything¡¯s been kept. I¡¯ve already sent it for analysis. As for the drug ¨C it came from this bottle, and not just that, thetest fingerprints on the cup belong to me and Su Yuerou!"

    At these words, everyone¡¯s gaze fell on Su Qingnuan.

    Her face, already pale, appeared even more guilt-ridden now.

    "Yuerou." Yun Meifeng sighed lightly, walked to Su Qingnuan¡¯s side, and took her hand. "I know marrying Yihan has been hard on you, but you can¡¯t go behind our backs and do something like this. What were you thinking..."

    Her unfinished words, along with her teary, pitiful gaze, perfectly conveyed her victim-like demeanor.

    Su Qingnuan withdrew her hand and looked at the old master, saying nothing.

    The old master was observing her too, though his once resolute expression now held traces of doubt.

    She knew perfectly well that these people had a backup n ready.

    While it was true the drug was given by the old master, once it was in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hands, everything changed. The old master couldn¡¯t be certain of what had happened thereafter, and if someone tampered with details, he might not believe her.

    Her guess turned out to be dead on.

    "Grandpa, don¡¯t you trust me?"

    With hurt in her eyes, Su Qingnuan looked expectantly at the old master.

    The old master hesitated before finally speaking, "Then what about the fingerprints? How do you exin those?"

    Su Qingnuan gave a bitterugh. "I don¡¯t understand it either, but I can absolutely guarantee, I didn¡¯t do any of this."

    "A mere guarantee is supposed to clear suspicion? Then what do we need the police for?" Fu Yixing sneered. "If you¡¯re truly innocent, then show us the proof. Where was this drug kept before? Do you have surveince footage?"

    The second floor of the Fu house was devoid of surveince cameras, so even if Su Qingnuan imed it was upstairs, there was no recorded evidence to back her up.

    Her hands felt icy.

    Clenching her fists tightly, Su Qingnuan stood.

    "Grandpa, I really didn¡¯t do it."

 Chapter 75 Helpless Words

    <h4>Chapter 75: Chapter 75 Helpless Words</h4><h4></h4>

    "Where¡¯s the evidence?" Fu Yixing asked sharply.

    Evidence...

    Her gaze instinctively shifted to the old master.

    Thetter noticed her nce, coughed awkwardly, and smiled faintly, "I think we can still discuss this matter calmly. Let¡¯s sit down and talk it over; no need for such sharp confrontations."

    "Grandpa! At a time like this, you¡¯re still shielding her?" Fu Yixing looked at the old master in disbelief and shouted angrily, "Is it true that as long as it¡¯s not murder or arson, you¡¯ll forgive her for anything she does?"

    "Stop talking nonsense!" The old master frowned and said helplessly, "This matter is indeed hard to say for certain. What if there¡¯s some misunderstanding? Right? We shouldn¡¯t make decisions based solely on appearances, okay?"

    "Sophistry!" Fu Yixing snorted coldly and sat down. "In any case, I don¡¯t care. Living with someone like her makes me feel unsafe."

    "..." Su Qingnuan nced at him and said firmly, "Don¡¯t worry, Second Young Master. I have no interest in you. Even if I use it, this drug wouldn¡¯t be used on you."

    "Then what about my water ss? How do you exin that?" Fu Yixing asked.

    Su Qingnuan pursed her lips, "That wasn¡¯t my doing."

    "Not your doing?" Fu Yixing sneered. "I think you¡¯re just afraid to admit it."

    "What do I have to be afraid of? If I did it, then I did it. If I didn¡¯t, why would I admit it?"

    Fu Yixing was furious, standing up and pointing at Su Qingnuan. "You¡¯re acting so recklessly just because Grandpa is spoiling you now!"

    "Wrong." Su Qingnuan stood up as well, her expression resolute. "I¡¯m merely stating the truth. I didn¡¯t do it!"

    The final sentence was almost shouted.

    The entire hall echoed with Su Qingnuan¡¯s voice.

    Everyone froze for a moment.

    Su Qingnuan usually spoke gently, even with a slight softness.

    In everyone¡¯s eyes, she was someone easy to bully.

    No one had imagined that such a person could have such a vtile side.

    Pressing her chest, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and continued, "Although I don¡¯t know who wants to frame me, this matter¡ªI can prove my innocence."

    "Oh?" Fu Yixing snapped back to his senses, looking at her with a faint smirk. "How do you n to prove your innocence?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at him and smiled.

    "Second Young Master, you said the ss of water was delivered to your room before I came downstairs, correct?"

    "Yes."

    "Then that makes sense." Su Qingnuan smiled and narrowed her eyes. "Beforeing downstairs, I was always with Yihan. You tell me, how could I possibly drug you?"

    Fu Yixing froze slightly.

    "Exactly!" The old master suddenly stood up, excitedly saying, "Yihan can vouch for this! If Qingnuan had never left her room before this, then she couldn¡¯t have done it."

    "That¡¯s right." Su Qingnuan shook her phone slightly, smiling faintly. "I¡¯ve already called Yihan; he¡¯s on his way back now."

    As soon as she finished speaking, the sound of a wheelchair being pushed was heard from behind.

    Su Qingnuan turned around, only to see Fu Yihan seated in his wheelchair without expression, his gaze sweeping across the crowd in the hall.

    "What¡¯s everyone so lively about?" Fu Yihan asked.

    The old master quickly walked out from the sofa and smiled, "Yihan, you came back just in time. Before this morning at eight, was Qingnuan in her room the whole time?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s icy eyes slowly shifted to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan stood her ground, meeting his gaze without flinching.

    After a long while, Fu Yihan broke his gaze and responded with a faint "hm."

    Su Qingnuan exhaled deeply in relief.

    "That settles it!" The old master beamed, patting Su Qingnuan on the shoulder. "I always knew you wouldn¡¯t do something like that."

    Looking at the old master¡¯s affectionate expression, Su Qingnuan could only manage an awkward smile.

    "Big brother and sister-inw are a team; of course he¡¯s biased toward her!" Fu Yixing protested, shouting, "Grandpa, you need to be fair!"

    "Fair?"

    Fu Yihan cut him off, smirking as he nced at Fu Yixing. "Are you suggesting that I helped your sister-inw drug you?"

    Fu Yixing¡¯s expression shifted slightly, as if he had been silenced, turning his head to mutter in a low voice, "I never said that."

    He didn¡¯t say it aloud, but in his heart, he clearly thought so.

    Fu Yihan sneered. "Fu Yixing, you¡¯re neither as good-looking as me nor as capable as me. Other than being able to walk normally, what makes you think my wife would abandon me for you?"

    "..."

    Fu Yixing¡¯s face turned bright red with frustration as he stared at Fu Yihan angrily.

    "Yihan!" The old master frowned at Fu Yihan with disapproval. "How can you say such things?"

    "Isn¡¯t it true?" Fu Yihan curled one corner of his lips into a mocking smile. "If it weren¡¯t for these legs, would I have tolerated your antics here for even a moment?"

    His arrogant tone was met with silence; no one dared to refute him.

    Fu Yixing trembled with rage but still couldn¡¯t utter a word.

    "That¡¯s enough, Yihan!" The old master scolded harshly. "You¡¯ve just returned. Go upstairs and rest; you¡¯re not needed here."

    Pulling back his gaze, Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan and frowned. "What¡¯re you standing there for? Enjoying the smell here?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan quickly walked over and pushed Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair toward the elevator.

    Once they were inside the elevator, Su Qingnuan bent forward slightly and said softly, "Mr. Fu, thank you."

    Fu Yihan said nothing, his expression unchanged.

    Only after they entered the room did Fu Yihan turn around to face Su Qingnuan directly.

    "Shall we sort this out now? What¡¯s this about?"

    Earlier, Su Qingnuan had messaged him urgently, asking him to return quickly and mentioning it was a serious matter.

    On his way back, Su Qingnuan messaged him again, insisting he confirm that she was with him that morning.

    Message after message, Su Qingnuan orchestrated everything clearly. Yet, Fu Yihan still didn¡¯t understand what was going on.

    Su Qingnuan let out a light sigh and took a seat opposite Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu, about the drug on the table¡ªit¡¯s not mine. It was Grandpa who gave it to me."

    "Grandpa?" Fu Yihan narrowed his eyes dangerously. "He gave it to you for me?"

    "... Yes."

    "Ha!"

    Fu Yihan sneered, tilting his head back. "Go on."

    "Actually, I didn¡¯t even know what was inside it. I just stuffed it in my bag without checking. Then today, when I was downstairs in the living room, it identally fell out. When I came back, they used me of drugging Fu Yixing." Su Qingnuan shrugged helplessly. "I don¡¯t know anything. I returned only to be dragged into this mess."

    Looking at her aggrieved expression, Fu Yihan snorted coldly. "If you can¡¯t even take care of what you¡¯re entrusted with, who¡¯s to me?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head, too frightened to speak.

    Her hair fell limply over her shoulders, making her look like a defeated puppy, pitiful and fragile.

    "Enough with the sob story. What do you n to achieve by showing me this face? Find the culprit who drugged him yourself, or I won¡¯t be able to protect you indefinitely."

    Su Qingnuan quickly nodded and smiled. "I understand!"

 Chapter 76: Searching for the Mastermind

    <h4>Chapter 76: Chapter 76: Searching for the Mastermind</h4><h4></h4>

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say much. Watching Su Qingnuan¡¯s excited expression, he waved his hand and returned to his room.

    Having narrowly escaped a disaster, Su Qingnuan was overjoyed.

    But what she needed to worry about next was the person who had drugged someone.

    She still remembered the one who found the drug. She decided to ask about itter to figure out what was happening.

    Su Qingnuan stayed in her room until it was mealtime, then apanied Fu Yihan downstairs.

    However, aside from the old master at the dining table, no one else was present.

    "Grandfather." Su Qingnuan greeted politely.

    The old master turned his head and smiled faintly. "Come, sit and eat."

    Su Qingnuan sat down, ncing around, hesitant to speak.

    "Don¡¯t bother looking." The old master chuckled helplessly. "Yixing said he couldn¡¯t feel fairness in this house and ran off. His mother went after him."

    Her movements stilled momentarily. Su Qingnuan lowered her head and said apologetically, "I¡¯m sorry, Grandfather. I didn¡¯t take good care of the medicine."

    As soon as she spoke, the old master quickly turned to look at Fu Yihan. Seeing no reaction from him, he sighed in relief.

    "Ignorance is no sin. You didn¡¯t know what it was, so it¡¯s still my fault." The old master sighed deeply, mumbling, "I should have just done it likest time and mixed it into the milk."

    "It is your fault."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold voice broke the silence. He picked up his knife and fork expressionlessly, letting out a sneeringugh. "Behaving so disgracefully at your age."

    "..."

    After coughing awkwardly a few times, the old master turned his head to Su Qingnuan.

    "Yuerou, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll have to endure some grievances these days. Yixing isn¡¯t exactly someone who lets things go easily."

    Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled gently. "Don¡¯t worry, Grandfather. I¡¯ll bear it. He¡¯s having a hard time, too."

    "Good girl." Feelingforted, the old master picked up some food and ced it on Su Qingnuan¡¯s te.

    Su Qingnuan quickly took the food and ate happily.

    With just the three of them at dinner, it was, surprisingly, more harmonious than when there were more people.

    After finishing dinner, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan outside for a stroll.

    But just as they reached the door, the wheelchair stopped moving.

    Su Qingnuan leaned her head forward, puzzled.

    "Go back," Fu Yihan suddenly ordered.

    Su Qingnuan quickly pulled the wheelchair back inside with all her strength.

    The servants bustling in and out were tidying up the dining room, leaving the other areas rtively quiet.

    "Do you still remember what that person looked like?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment before ncing back.

    Among the several servants, Su Qingnuan immediately recognized the person.

    "It¡¯s her, the one in the dress." Fearing Fu Yihan might act impulsively, Su Qingnuan pointed her out specifically.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze flicked to her hand, and he pped it down, speaking coldly. "Don¡¯t point¡ªI can see."

    "...Oh."

    After getting a good look at the person, Fu Yihan turned to Ah Qi.

    "Go."

    Ah Qi acknowledged the order and walked toward the group of servants.

    "We¡¯re going out now," Fu Yihan said again.

    Before she could see what Ah Qi was doing, Su Qingnuan reluctantly shifted her gaze and pushed Fu Yihan outside.

    The light outside still carried a faint haziness. Su Qingnuan positioned him near a bench in the courtyard and softly asked, "Here?"

    "Mm. Sit."

    Su Qingnuan sat down, tilting her head up to look at the distant sky.

    Night was about to fall, and the world before her grew increasingly blurred.

    "Over there¡ªmove!"

    The quiet world was disrupted by a harsh voice.

    Su Qingnuan turned her head to see Ah Qi bringing a woman in their direction.

    As they got closer, Su Qingnuan recognized the woman as the one who had used her earlier that day.

    "Eldest Young Master!" The woman knelt before Fu Yihan, frantically kowtowing. "I really didn¡¯t do anything! Please, have mercy on me!"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s icy gaze swept downward at the kneeling woman. He chuckled lightly. "Are you scared?"

    Hisugh was eerie, like that of a devil crawling out of hell.

    The woman¡¯s body trembled uncontrobly. She nodded nervously, "Sc-scared...!"

    "Good. You should be." Fu Yihan lifted his gaze toward Ah Qi.

    Ah Qi cracked his knuckles, the sound crisp and unsettling.

    "If you¡¯re scared, then you should know what to say and what not to say," Ah Qi sneered. "What did you do after picking up that drug?"

    "I didn¡¯t do anything!" the woman cried out. "I swear I didn¡¯t! I just put the drug in the kitchen drawer. Then the second young master said there was something in the cup¡ªhe came down to investigate, and when the issue came up, I mentioned it belonged to the eldest young mistress! I really didn¡¯t do anything!"

    Though it was already autumn, beads of sweat covered the woman¡¯s forehead. It was clear how terrified she was.

    "Is there a surveince camera in the kitchen?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "Yes."

    "Go."

    "Yes."

    With that brief exchange, Ah Qi pulled the woman and headed off toward the distance.

    Su Qingnuan stared in stunned silence, unable to react for a moment.

    Fu Yihan turned his head back, catching sight of her dazed expression. His brows furrowed. "What are you looking at?"

    "...Nothing." Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her gaze and murmured, "Nothing."

    She didn¡¯t realize that her current demeanor¡ªspeaking softly, avoiding Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, and hanging her head¡ªwas strikingly simr to that of the woman earlier.

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihanmanded, "Raise your head."

    Her body stiffened as she timidly lifted her head to meet his eyes.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze was deep and piercing, and staring into them gave her the sensation of plunging into an abyss.

    She quickly looked away, forcing a smile. "Mr. Fu, is there something you need?"

    "Are you afraid of me?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then shook her head quickly. "No, Mr. Fu, you¡¯re very kind. You even helped me solve this problem earlier. I feel¡ª"

    "You¡¯re afraid of me."

    A statement, not a question.

    Su Qingnuan was stunned.

    She was indeed a little afraid of him, though the fear wasn¡¯t overwhelming¡ªsometimes it felt negligible.

    Seeing her hesitation, Fu Yihan sneered coldly.

    "Being afraid is good."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s brain stalled again, unable to process.

    So Fu Yihan wanted her to be afraid of him?

    "We¡¯re in a partnership. If you¡¯re afraid of me, you¡¯ll cooperate better."

    Suddenly, Fu Yihan extended his hand and gripped Su Qingnuan¡¯s chin.

    It hurt a little, but it was bearable.

    Su Qingnuan stared at Fu Yihan in bewilderment, unsure of what to do.

    "So remember how you feel right now¡ªfear me."

    "..."

    Before Su Qingnuan could respond, Fu Yihan let go of her and wheeled himself back inside.

    Rubbing her aching jaw, Su Qingnuan wondered if he was angry.

    But from start to finish, she hadn¡¯t said anything offensive, had she? Was he really this quick to anger?

    Feeling a little dejected, Su Qingnuan resignedly stepped forward to catch up.

    But the man didn¡¯t wait for her at all. He wheeled himself into the house, took the elevator, and locked the door behind him.

    Staring at the door, Su Qingnuan suddenly thought of when she had first arrived here¡ªhow he¡¯d locked her outside, refusing to let her in.

    So he really was angry, wasn¡¯t he?

 Chapter 77 Coddling People

    <h4>Chapter 77: Chapter 77 Coddling People</h4><h4></h4>

    Why is he angry?

    When A Qi returned with the surveince footage, she found Su Qingnan sitting at the door, holding her head in her hands, lost in thought.

    "Young Madam." A Qi looked at her puzzled, "What are you doing sitting at the door?"

    Su Qingnan quickly stood up, patted her pants, and said helplessly, "He locked the door from the inside, I can¡¯t get in."

    Startled, A Qi nced at the door, and cautiously asked, "Is the Eldest Young Master angry?"

    "...Probably?" Su Qingnan helplessly pressed her forehead, "I¡¯ve been calling him ever since I got back, but he won¡¯t respond to me."

    "Then he¡¯s definitely angry." A Qi affirmed confidently.

    "Alright then..."

    Glimpsing at the lock, Su Qingnan¡¯s eyes suddenly lit up, she looked at A Qi: "A Qi, you¡¯re the Eldest Young Master¡¯s bodyguard, you should have a key, right?"

    A Qi shook his head: "No."

    "Really nothing?" Su Qingnan didn¡¯t believe it.

    A Qi smiled wryly: "The Eldest Young Master doesn¡¯t like others getting close, naturally, he wouldn¡¯t give anyone the keys."

    "Ah..."

    Does this mean she has to go to the guest room again?

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    Su Qingnan was startled for a moment and turned back.

    The person beside her was seriously knocking on the door. Su Qingnan quietly reminded, "I knocked for a long time just now, but no one opened the door."

    As soon as the words fell, she heard a "click" sound, and the door opened.

    She turned around in surprise, meeting the frosty gaze of that person.

    Su Qingnan quickly stood up straight.

    "Eldest Young Master, the video has been brought over."

    Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnan and said coldly, "Come in."

    A Qi went inside.

    Su Qingnan stood at the door, unsure whether to enter or keep waiting.

    The wheelchair suddenly stopped, Fu Yihan turned his head, frowning at the person at the door: "Do we need to invite you in?"

    Hearing this, Su Qingnan quickly walked in and closed the door.

    She followed closely behind the two and stood next to theputer desk.

    "y it," Fu Yihan said.

    A Qi quickly transferred the video to theputer and yed it.

    The kitchen scene was chaotic, with peopleing and going.

    A Qi arranged this segment, just when someone picked up Su Qingnan¡¯s medicine and then entered the kitchen.

    Without even looking, she directly threw the medicine into a drawer without even opening the packaging.

    "She just said in the living room that she opened it and looked," Su Qingnan cautiously reminded.

    Fu Yihan nced at her without speaking.

    Su Qingnan immediately kept quiet.

    The video continued, and that drawer remained untouched.

    A Qi fast-forwarded the video.

    Suddenly, A Qi stopped.

    A familiar figure slowly walked into the kitchen.

    Yun Meifeng?

    Su Qingnan widened her eyes, not missing any action on the screen.

    Yun Meifeng took out the medicine from the drawer, opened it for a look, then put it back.

    Half an hourter, a maid rushed in, took the medicine out, and ran out, ending the footage.

    "Eldest Young Master, it¡¯s over," A Qi said respectfully.

    Fu Yihan nodded, his gazending on Su Qingnan.

    "What do you think?"

    Su Qingnan immediately stood up straight, and said seriously, "They were intentionally framing me."

    "Intentionally framing you?" Fu Yihan sneered, slowly withdrew his gaze, sneering, "A typical case of a thief crying ¡¯stop thief¡¯."

    "With this video given to the old master, I can prove my innocence," Su Qingnan echoed.

    However, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond, his gaze on theputer screen.

    "Eldest Young Master, should this video be handed over to the police?" A Qi suddenly asked.

    Fu Yihan curled his lips in a stiff smile.

    "Giving it to the police, it still won¡¯t achieve anything."

    He leaned back, resting on the chair, his eyes idly fixed on the ceiling.

    "Give it to the old master, tell him I need an exnation."

    "Yes."

    A Qi took the video out.

    Fu Yihan remained in that position, unmoved.

    Su Qingnan stood still, not daring to move.

    After who knows how long, Fu Yihan suddenly spoke, "How¡¯s yourpetition going?"

    "Ah... still hasn¡¯t notified us of the result, probably will be out by tomorrow or the day after."

    "Confident?" He raised an eyebrow, with a smile that was not a smile, and asked.

    Su Qingnan nodded, smiling confidently: "Yes."

    Noticing her confident demeanor, Fu Yihan turned his gaze away.

    "Alright, go rest."

    "Huh?"

    Being dismissed so easily was unexpected for Su Qingnan.

    However, there¡¯s no need to continue facing this temperamental man, so naturally, Su Qingnan was happy.

    Back in her room, Su Qingnan took out her book, intending to review it.

    A small box slid out along with the book.

    Startled, Su Qingnan picked up the box.

    Every time her father went out, he would bring back gifts for both Su Qingnan and Su Yuerou.

    Su Qingnan always received nes, while Su Yuerou¡¯s gifts changed constantly.

    Her bracelets were already filling the small boxes, while Su Yuerou¡¯s gifts filled an entire room.

    Judging by the width and size of this small box, Su Qingnan guessed it might be another bracelet.

    Casually opening the box, what came into view was a small card.

    A card about the size of a palm was ced in the middle of the box, blocking the contents below.

    Taking out the card, an emerald green color came into view.

    Su Qingnan was stunned, staring nkly at the box.

    It was a bracelet - a crystal-clear jade bracelet, its verdant green color alone spoke of its considerable value.

    Though her father always sent bracelets, he had never given such an expensive item.

    After a long moment of surprise, Su Qingnan opened the card in her hand.

    The palm-sized card was filled with densely packed words.

    More of an apology letter than a message for Su Qingnan.

    It was an apology from her father.

    Su Qingnan felt her eyes slightly redden, wiped them, and continued reading to the end.

    When she saw the five words "love, your father," tears rolled down her cheeks.

    The card had a secondyer, with a pocket inside holding another card.

    "Dear daughter: This is the private money I saved over the years. Life with your inws isn¡¯t easy; you should have your own money to rely on. Take good care of it."

    A seemingly ordinary card, at this moment, to Su Qingnan, seemed gilded and encrusted with diamonds.

    She held the card tightly, tears falling uncontrobly.

    Thankfully, at least in this world, there¡¯s someone still thinking of him.

    Even though his deepest love wasn¡¯t for this woman, at least, he never wronged her.

    Su Qingnan wiped her tears, carefully stored the jade bracelet away in the drawer.

    As for the card, she ced it in her wallet.

    Stowing it anywhere else was less reassuring than keeping it close, especially now when she truly needed the money.

    Although married into the Fu family, being supported by them was nothing like having pocket money back at her own home.

    Everything she used these days was from what she had previously saved.

    Patted her bulging wallet, Su Qingnan smiled at herself in the mirror, raised her hands.

    "Cheer up, Su Qingnan! You can do it!"

    No matter how winding the road of the future is, she will surely persevere!

 Chapter 78 Deep Love, Shallow Fate

    <h4>Chapter 78: Chapter 78 Deep Love, Shallow Fate</h4><h4></h4>

    The next morning at breakfast, Fu Yihan and Yun Meifeng were still nowhere to be seen, and the old man¡¯s face didn¡¯t look too good.

    "Yurou,e back earlier after school today."

    Su Qingnuan paused, looking at the old man. "Grandpa, is there an event today?"

    "Hmm, a family meeting."

    "...Alright."

    After finishing breakfast, Su Qingnuan cautiously approached Fu Yihan.

    "Um..."

    Fu Yihan turned around, his cold gaze falling on her.

    Su Qingnuan wiped the sweat from her forehead, resignedly saying, "Did you hand that video over to the old man?"

    "Hmm."

    Retracting his indifferent gaze, Fu Yihan frowned. "Go and do whatever you¡¯re supposed to be doing."

    "...Alright."

    When she left the Fu family estate, Su Qingnuan got into the car, her mind in turmoil.

    "Young Madam, we¡¯ve arrived."

    Ah Qi¡¯s voice came from the front. Su Qingnuan snapped back to her senses¡ªoutside the window was the familiar school gate.

    "Ah, ah!" Su Qingnuan quickly nodded and got out of the car.

    She walked toward the ssroom with her head down. Along the way, many people stared at her, making her feel as if she¡¯d returned to the day she first started school.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and quickened her pace.

    "Did you hear? Our school belle apparently has her feet in two boats¡ªheard she¡¯s been..."

    "Isn¡¯t this the school belle?"

    "Hey, hey, look! That cheating girl!"

    More and more people were watching her, and some were even pointing at her.

    What rumors were circting in the school this time?

    Su Qingnuan frowned deeply and entered the ssroom.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was hunched over her desk, doing something unknown.

    "Gu Xiaoxiao." Su Qingnuan tapped her shoulder, frowning. "What are you doing?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly looked up. The moment she saw Su Qingnuan, her hand darted toward her desk.

    "..." Su Qingnuan frowned, her gaze falling on her hand. "What are you hiding?"

    "Nothing..." Gu Xiaoxiao forced a smile. "I¡¯m not hiding anything."

    "Let me see." Su Qingnuan extended her hand.

    "Really, it¡¯s nothing." Gu Xiaoxiao pressed down on Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand, smiling. "Sit down¡ªss is about to start."

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow but remained standing.

    "...Seriously." Gu Xiaoxiao reluctantly stood up, stiff-necked. "Don¡¯t tell me I don¡¯t even have the freedom to look at my phone?"

    "No."

    Su Qingnuan answered without hesitation, steadfastly gazing at her.

    The two stared at each other, and seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s unwavering determination, Gu Xiaoxiao finally sighed in defeat.

    "Are you sure you want it?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked carefully.

    Su Qingnuan nodded with certainty. "Give it to me."

    Only then did Gu Xiaoxiao hand over the phone to Su Qingnuan.

    When she unlocked it, the screen disyed something very odd, making Su Qingnuan¡¯s brows furrow.

    "Qingnuan, don¡¯t get angry! These people are just like this¡ªtalking without knowing anything!" Gu Xiaoxiao said indignantly.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and returned the phone to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    "It¡¯s fine," Su Qingnuan said softly. "I don¡¯t care about this."

    She remained calm and collected, sitting down to open her book.

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze for a moment, doubtfully looking at her. "You truly don¡¯t mind anymore?"

    "What¡¯s there to mind?" Su Qingnuan smiled lightly. "It¡¯s not true anyway. Besides, would caring help? Would it stop them from talking?"

    "...No."

    "Then that¡¯s it." Su Qingnuan continued smiling. "Instead of worrying about such things, it¡¯s better to think about your own matters."

    If nothing unexpected happened, today¡¯spetition results would be announced¡ªit would all be decided today whether she could advance to the finals.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s calm demeanor, Gu Xiaoxiao finally believed her words.

    "That¡¯s the right mindset." Gu Xiaoxiao smiled, patting her shoulder. "They¡¯re just jealous of you¡ªthat¡¯s why they gossip. Ignore them."

    Su Qingnuan nodded.

    After ss, as the two walked out of the ssroom, the school broadcast system suddenly came on.

    "Doesn¡¯t the broadcast usually y during lunchtime?" Su Qingnuan whispered.

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head.

    "Will student Su Qingnuan from the Computer Science Department pleasee to the Dean¡¯s office."

    Both of them halted their steps. Gu Xiaoxiao looked at Su Qingnuan in confusion.

    Su Qingnuan was equally puzzled.

    "What did you do?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked in a low voice.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head slightly, sighing helplessly. "What could I have done? Are you stupid?"

    Indeed, what could Su Qingnuan have done?

    She attended school regrly, went home on time, and otherwise stayed in the Fu household. She hardly ever went out¡ªwhat trouble could she have gotten into?

    Frowning slightly, Su Qingnuan turned toward the elevator.

    "I¡¯ll go up and see. You wait here."

    "No!" Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed onto Su Qingnuan. "I¡¯ll go with you¡ªI have a bad feeling about this."

    "...Fine."

    The two took the elevator directly to the Dean¡¯s office.

    Many people loitered near the office, waiting to witness the drama.

    When Su Qingnuan appeared, their smiles deepened.

    "Look, the main character¡¯s here."

    "You can¡¯t deny it¡ªshe really is beautiful, a proper school belle."

    "Hey! Hurry up, make way!"

    Onement followed another, making Su Qingnuan feel like a panda in a zoo, with everyone gawking at her.

    "Don¡¯t mind what they say. Go in quickly," Gu Xiaoxiao patting Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder and said in a low voice. "I¡¯ll wait out here for you."

    "Okay."

    Su Qingnuan knocked on the Dean¡¯s office door.

    "Come in."

    She pushed the door open and locked eyes with a pair of warm, gentle eyes.

    Su Qingnuan paused, standing at the doorway without stepping further inside.

    "Why are you standing there?" The Dean smiled, beckoning her. "Come in,e in."

    Seeing his cheerful demeanor, it didn¡¯t align with her expectations¡ªwasn¡¯t she called here for questioning?

    "Come on, Mr. Shen, take a seat. Qingnuan, you sit as well."

    Shen Lin¡¯an pulled out a chair in front of the desk and smiled. "Qingnuan,e and sit."

    "Hmm."

    Responding softly, Su Qingnuan walked over and sat down.

    Shen Lin¡¯an followed suit and took a seat.

    The Dean sat across from them, holding some photos, and said sincerely: "I initially thought, Qingnuan, you¡¯re here to study, and things like this shouldn¡¯t happen. That¡¯s why I previously talked to you. But who would¡¯ve thought, such absurd rumors would emerge afterward."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head and said guiltily, "I¡¯m sorry, Dean, but I haven¡¯t done any of those things."

    "You say you haven¡¯t done them, but how can I believe that?" The Dean questioned her.

    Su Qingnuan fell silent.

    In this world, evidence is everything¡ªwords alone mean nothing.

    The Dean nced at her, then turned toward Shen Lin¡¯an, his brows lifting as he smiled. "Fortunately, Mr. Shen stepped forward in time to exin everything to me."

    Shen Lin¡¯an?

    Su Qingnuan looked at Shen Lin¡¯an in surprise, her eyes filled with curiosity.

    Meeting her gaze, Shen Lin¡¯an smiled faintly. "I¡¯ve known Qingnuan since childhood. I¡¯ve always treated her like my own little sister. Naturally, I can¡¯t tolerate people tarnishing her reputation with baseless usations."

    "Exactly!" The Dean sighed helplessly. "These students nowadays¡ªgetting more and more out of hand. Instead of studying, all they do is focus on this nonsense."

 Chapter 79 Education Issues

    <h4>Chapter 79: Chapter 79 Education Issues</h4><h4></h4>

    "Indeed." Shen Lin¡¯an adjusted his sses and said with a smile, "That¡¯s why education in schools is bing increasingly important. Director, thank you for your hard work."

    "Oh! It¡¯s no trouble, no trouble!" The director waved his hand repeatedly andughed, "Teacher Shen, you¡¯ve attended a few of our sses now. What do you think of our school?"

    "It¡¯s quite good." Shen Lin¡¯an nced at Su Qingnuan and said calmly, "The atmosphere for discipline is excellent, and the students have great attitudes."

    "Well, that¡¯s good to hear, that¡¯s good to hear!"

    The director stood up and extended his hand, "Since we¡¯ve already sorted out the truth of the matter, we certainly won¡¯t wrong Qingnuan."

    "Thank you, Director."

    The two shook hands with a smile, ending the conversation.

    As Su Qingnuan walked out of the director¡¯s office, she still hadn¡¯t fully processed what had just happened.

    She had thought she was in for a stern scolding¡ªwho would have expected such a smooth resolution?

    "Qingnuan."

    Su Qingnuan turned back to see Shen Lin¡¯an staring at her.

    She instinctively stepped back and said warily, "Shen Lin¡¯an, what are you up to again?"

    Seeing her reaction, Shen Lin¡¯an chuckled wryly, "I¡¯m just trying to help. Is that not allowed?"

    In the past, Su Qingnuan might have trusted Shen Lin¡¯an, but now...

    "Qingnuan." Shen Lin¡¯an suddenly extended a hand and rested it on her shoulder, looking at her intently. "Didn¡¯t you say you see me as an older brother? What I¡¯m doing now is simply the actions of a brother trying to protect his little sister. There¡¯s nothing wrong with that, right?"

    His gaze was incredibly serious, with no other discernible emotion¡ªjust a backdrop of unresolved feelings.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment before nodding, "That seems fair. But..."

    "But what?" Shen Lin¡¯an asked eagerly.

    Seeing the anticipation in his eyes, Su Qingnuan became cautious once again, "Are you nning to be a teacher at this school?"

    "No." Shen Lin¡¯an rejected the idea without hesitation and smiled faintly, "I came to the school solely for you. Now that our misunderstanding has been cleared up, there¡¯s no reason for me toe anymore. You don¡¯t want me hanging around all the time, do you?"

    Su Qingnuan opened her mouth but couldn¡¯t bring herself to utter the words "not really."

    Seeing her conflicted expression, Shen Lin¡¯anughed softly, "I get it. No need to force yourself. But there¡¯s something I need to tell you."

    "What is it?" Su Qingnuan raised her head to look at him.

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s expression turned serious: "You¡¯ll need to be cautious when ites to Yuerou."

    "What do you mean?" Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled.

    With a bitter smile, Shen Lin¡¯an exined, "I heard from some of my friends that Yuerou has been asking around about you and what¡¯s happening at school. I fear that..."

    No way!

    Su Qingnuan would never allow Su Yuerou to disrupt her school life.

    "She doesn¡¯t know yet, does she?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    "No," Shen Lin¡¯an replied hesitantly, looking at Su Qingnuan. "But it¡¯s bound toe out sooner orter. I¡¯m just advising you to prepare in advance."

    "Alright, I understand."

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan looked up at Shen Lin¡¯an, "Lin¡¯an¡ªBrother, thank you for this."

    "You¡¯re wee." Shen Lin¡¯an reflexively raised his hand, as if to rest it on Su Qingnuan¡¯s head.

    But Su Qingnuan stepped back, avoiding the gesture.

    She looked at Shen Lin¡¯an awkwardly, her smile somewhat forced.

    With a helplessugh, Shen Lin¡¯an said, "Alright, I get it. Head back; your friend is waiting for you."

    Following his line of sight, Su Qingnuan turned around to see Gu Xiaoxiao waving wildly at her a short distance away.

    "Thanks."

    With that, Su Qingnuan spun around and ran towards Gu Xiaoxiao.

    ...

    "The director didn¡¯t give you a hard time, did they?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, concerned.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, smiling mysteriously, "You wouldn¡¯t believe it."

    "Believe what?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered.

    Leaning close to her ear, Su Qingnuanughed as she said, "Shen Lin¡¯an spoke up for me and testified that we don¡¯t have ¡¯that kind of rtionship,¡¯ so the director let me go!"

    "Really?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s jaw dropped in shock. "Shen Lin¡¯an actually said that? Wasn¡¯t he always trying to win you back? What¡¯s with the sudden change?"

    "No idea." Su Qingnuanughed, "Maybe he was moved by what I said to him a few days ago and is now reflecting on it."

    "Seriously, seriously?" Gu Xiaoxiao blinked curiously at Su Qingnuan. "What did you say to him? Tell me!"

    Su Qingnuan pushed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s increasingly close face away and chuckled, "I¡¯m not telling."

    "Come on, tell me¡ª"

    "Nope." Su Qingnuan stepped aside, distancing herself from Gu Xiaoxiao and looking rather helpless. "Stop sticking to me like glue."

    "Oh really!" Gu Xiaoxiao grinned mischievously, "When you need me, I¡¯m your ¡¯sweetheart.¡¯ Now you don¡¯t need me, and I¡¯m just an annoyance?"

    Unable to hold back herughter, Su Qingnuan nodded, "Exactly!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao snorted coldly and, baring her teeth, charged toward Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan darted away in terror, and the two yed gleefully.

    After the afternoon sses, Su Qingnuan went home in high spirits.

    But as soon as she got home, regret washed over her.

    The atmosphere in the house was decidedly off.

    Grandpa sat solemnly on the sofa.

    Across from him sat Yun Meifeng and Fu Yixing.

    When Grandpa saw Su Qingnuan, he beckoned, "Yuerou,e over here."

    Hugging her school bag tightly, Su Qingnuan cautiously walked over.

    "Alright, now everyone¡¯s here." Grandpa pped the table and sneered coldly, "It¡¯s time you shared your ns for handling this, isn¡¯t it?"

    The two seated across from him kept their heads down, their expressions obscured.

    "Old Master, this is all my fault. Please don¡¯t me Yixing." Yun Meifeng lifted her tear-stained face.

    "Your fault?" Grandpa¡¯s eyes fell on Fu Yixing as he sneered, "And Yixing knew nothing about it?"

    Yun Meifeng quickly protested, "No, Yixing truly didn¡¯t know anything."

    "You think I believe your nonsense?"

    Grandpa shook off Yun Meifeng¡¯s hand in disgust, chuckling wryly, "When you brought out the medicine and used Yuerou in person, did you think about how your lies would affect her position in the Fu family if we believed you?"

    The two remained silent.

    Their silence only infuriated Grandpa further.

    "Fine, you won¡¯t speak." Grandpa mmed the table, "If you¡¯ve made a mistake, you must face punishment!"

    Pointing at Yun Meifeng, he roared, "As a woman who couldn¡¯t raise her own son properly, what business do you have staying in the Fu family? Pack up your things and leave tomorrow!"

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing¡¯s head snapped up in shock as he grabbed onto Grandpa¡¯s sleeve, "You can¡¯t do this, Grandpa!"

    "Can¡¯t do what?" Grandpa sneered, "She hasn¡¯t even married my son yet! She¡¯s not part of the Fu family. What harm is there in driving her out?"

    "No!" Fu Yixing clung to Grandpa¡¯s leg desperately, "That¡¯s my mother¡ªGrandpa, you can¡¯t send my mother away."

    Yun Meifeng wiped at her eyes and spoke dejectedly, "Old Master, I understand you¡¯re angry, but this matter..."

    Follow current novels on freewe(b)novel.c(o)m

 Chapter 80 Leaving

    <h4>Chapter 80: Chapter 80 Leaving</h4><h4></h4>

    "Back then, your father already said not to follow your mother. But stubbornly, that woman insisted on staying at home. You liked it, so we had no choice." The old man looked at Fu Yihan with frustration, "Now she¡¯s done something like that. Do you think we can tolerate her anymore?"

    Fu Yihan gritted his teeth and held onto the old man tightly. "Grandpa, can¡¯t you just go with my idea for once? I don¡¯t want Mom to leave!"

    "We¡¯ve already given her chances." The old man pushed Fu Yihan away andughed helplessly. "If you truly care about your mother, you should grow up sooner, use your own abilities to support her, instead of having her here spreading nonsense!"

    The old man¡¯s tone was heavy, clearly showing his anger.

    Faced with Fu Yihan¡¯s pleading, the old man showed no sign of softening.

    Yun Meifeng sobbed quietly on the side, wiping her tears now and then.

    The scene was almost like a painting worthy of being called a masterpiece.

    Su Qingnuan finally understood why this family meeting had only four people. If Fu Yihan had been added, it¡¯s likely no one else would have had their turn, let alone Fu Yihan¡¯s pleas.

    "Enough, Yihan." The old man pushed Fu Yihan aside, his determination clear. "If this woman isn¡¯t driven out today, how am I supposed to answer to your older brother?"

    "Brother, brother!" Fu Yihan finally exploded with anger. His eyes turned slightly red as he shouted at the old man: "All you ever care about is my brother! When have you ever thought about me even once?"

    The old man paused briefly, surprised by the outburst, beforeughing angrily. "You¡¯re saying I haven¡¯t considered you?"

    "When have you ever considered me?" Fu Yihan shot back angrily. "Anything good always goes to my brother first. Even thepany was handed over to him to manage. If I hadn¡¯t worked hard myself, thepany would still be in the hands of that sickly man. What could I possibly get? You just wish you could watch me turn into a spoiled idiot, isn¡¯t that right?!"

    "....."

    The old man stared in disbelief at Fu Yihan, his eyes full of shock.

    He had never expected the grandson he had protected all these years to view him this way.

    Taking another look, the old man grabbed the paper box on the table and hurled it at Fu Yihan.

    "Get out! Take your mother and get out of my sight!"

    Fu Yihan stood there grimacing for a while before turning to pull Yun Meifeng away.

    "Mom! We¡¯re leaving."

    "Wait!" Yun Meifeng tugged at Fu Yihan, trying to stop him. "Yihan, listen to me¡ª"

    "There¡¯s nothing to say!" Fu Yihan gritted his teeth. "Since we¡¯re not wee here, we¡¯ll leave."

    With strength in his grip, he dragged Yun Meifeng away.

    "Bang¡ª¡ª"

    The door mmed shut. The old man clutched his chest, sat down gasping for air.

    "Grandpa!" Su Qingnuan rushed forward to support his arm. "Are you okay?"

    "..... I¡¯m fine." The old man leaned back against the sofa and sighed helplessly. "How did I raise such an ungrateful child?"

    Su Qingnuan remained silent. She had no right to speak in this matter.

    After sitting with the old man for a while, he got up and headed back to his room.

    Su Qingnuan also returned to her room.

    Not long after, the door opened, and Su Qingnuan looked up.

    Ah Qi was pushing Fu Yihan into the room.

    "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re back!" Su Qingnuan stood up and walked toward Fu Yihan.

    Her eyes sparkled, and Fu Yihan raised a brow slightly.

    "What? Something good happened?"

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment, nodded, then shook her head.

    Fu Yihan frowned, "Is it good or bad?"

    "I¡¯m not sure whether it¡¯s good or bad for you. I¡¯ll tell you, and you decide for yourself."

    "Go ahead." He replied.

    Su Qingnuan smiled lightly. "The old man drove Aunt out."

    "Oh. And?" Fu Yihan asked indifferently.

    Su Qingnuan looked at him in confusion. "You¡¯re not surprised?"

    "Why would I be?" Fu Yihan turned away, eyes filled with disdain. "She did something like that. Grandpa, who can¡¯t tolerate nonsense at all, of course drove her out."

    "..... Fine." Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and continued, "It was the second young master who took Aunt away. He said he was leaving."

    "Fu Yihan?" Fu Yihan sneered. "He¡¯s said things like this more than once or twice. Don¡¯t worry; he¡¯ll be back by tonight."

    "....."

    Regarding the two pieces of news Su Qingnuan shared, Fu Yihan waspletely indifferent.

    "Alright, your news doesn¡¯t mean much. Next time you hear something simr, don¡¯t bother telling me."

    "... Okay."

    Watching Fu Yihan return to his room, Su Qingnuan covered her face, feeling a bit embarrassed.

    Sure enough, on the first day of the month at the dining table, Fu Yihan appeared again, his expression not looking great.

    "How¡¯s thepany¡¯s situation?" the old man asked.

    Fu Yihan nced at him but said nothing.

    The old man put down his chopsticks and mmed his hand on the table, causing the tes on it to shake.

    "I¡¯m asking you a question!" the old man said sternly.

    Fu Yihan finally put down his knife and fork, seriously replying, "Pretty good. Everything¡¯s proceeding step by step."

    Upon hearing this, the old man nodded in satisfaction and picked up his chopsticks again, as did Fu Yihan.

    The meal was incredibly awkward for Su Qingnuan.

    Finally finishing the meal, she practically fled from the scene.

    When she arrived at school by car, she hadn¡¯t even entered the gate when she saw Gu Xiaoxiao hopping about in the distance.

    "Why are you out already?" Su Qingnuan walked over with a smile. "And so early¡ªare you just here for breakfast?"

    "Of course not!" Gu Xiaoxiao linked arms with Su Qingnuan excitedly. "I¡¯m here to take you to see thepetition results!"

    "The results are out?" Su Qingnuan asked in surprise.

    "Yes!" Gu Xiaoxiao nodded quickly. "They were delivered this morning. I saw the list but didn¡¯t get a clear look at the names. It¡¯ll be posted soon. Let¡¯s go check before ss."

    "Alright." Su Qingnuan nodded, pulling Gu Xiaoxiao toward the bulletin board.

    They could have gone directly to the principal¡¯s office to look, but after yesterday¡¯s encounter, Su Qingnuan felt embarrassed to go again and decided to wait outside instead.

    There were quite a few people waiting for news, all clustered around the bulletin board.

    Soon, the principal came out, noticed the crowd outside, and smiled. "Oh? All here for the results?"

    "Yes! Principal, how about you read them aloud for us?" someone shouted.

    The principal chuckled lightly. "Alright, I¡¯ll do you all a favor. Let¡¯s see here!"

    He looked at the list in his hand for a moment, and his smile gradually widened. "This year, our school has outdone itself! The finals expanded to twelve spots, and we got three!"

    "Three! That¡¯s so many? In previous years, it was only one!"

    "Three! I think I might have a chance!"

    The chatter around her didn¡¯t distract Su Qingnuan at all. She was fully focused on the principal, her eyes fixed solely on him. Not even Gu Xiaoxiao gripping her wrist made her notice.

    "Let¡¯s see the first name now: Su Qingnuan, Su Qingnuan? Is Su Qingnuan here?"

    "Here! Here!" Gu Xiaoxiao anxiously pushed Su Qingnuan forward. "She¡¯s here!"

 Chapter 81: The Winner

    <h4>Chapter 81: Chapter 81: The Winner</h4><h4></h4>

    The director nced at her with a smile and said warmly, "Qingnuan performed well, taking first ce to enter the finals. Keep up the good work."

    "What? First ce? Did I hear that right?"

    "No wonder she¡¯s a top student¡ªabsolutely deserving! First ce, wow!"

    "Amazing! Not only is she good-looking, but she¡¯s also so capable. So jealous!"

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan had a slightly dazed expression as she stared at the director wordlessly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nudged her and teased, "What are you spacing out for? The director¡¯s talking to you!"

    "Ah? Oh!" Su Qingnuan snapped back to reality and smiled awkwardly. "Sorry about that, Director."

    "It¡¯s fine." The director nced at the list again and continued, "Let me see who else... Oh, Jiang He¡ªJiang He, are you here?"

    A schrly-looking boy wearing sses was pushed forward. His cheeks flushed red, surprise flickering in his eyes.

    "Director, is my name really there?"

    "Of course it is!" The director patted his shoulder and smiled. "Well done, young man. Keep it up!"

    "Got it!"

    Jiang He jogged away excitedly. Watching his ecstatic retreating figure, the crowd reacted with mixed emotions¡ªsome happy, some disheartened.

    Only one spot remained.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Gu Xiaoxiao, who was also watching the director nervously.

    "Thest one... Kong Rong."

    Kong Rong?

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly and looked back in confusion.

    "I told you! You could definitely make it!"

    "Exactly! Compared to some people, you¡¯re leaps ahead!"

    These sarcastic tones were the kind ofments Su Qingnuan had been hearing a lottely.

    Yet, despite their familiarity, even she couldn¡¯t help but find them somewhat amusing.

    Apanied by two others, Kong Rong strode forward.

    Crossing her arms proudly, she looked at Su Qingnuan with high-spirited confidence.

    "I made it in?" Kong Rong asked.

    The director nodded and smiled. "Our school got three spots in total. You¡¯ve all done very well. Perform your best!"

    "Thank you for thepliment, Director." Kong Rong cast a sly nce at Su Qingnuan, smirking coldly. "But my ambitions extend far beyond this."

    "That¡¯s the energy we like to see in young people!" The director waved his hand with a smile. "Alright, now that you all know the results, time to disperse."

    Saying that, the director took the list over to the bulletin board and posted it there.

    Even though the names had already been announced, many people still couldn¡¯t resist rushing over for onest double-check, hoping for a miracle.

    But upon finding their names absent, they left in disappointment.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Gu Xiaoxiao and sighed softly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao noticed and looked at her in surprise. "What are you sighing about? Didn¡¯t you just make it into the finals?"

    "I..." Su Qingnuan hesitated, looking at her.

    Gu Xiaoxiao paused, then teased with augh, "Are you worried about me, or are you looking down on me?"

    "Of course not!" Su Qingnuan lowered her head, hesitating again. "It¡¯s just that you prepared for so long..."

    "I prepared for a long time, but so did everyone else. Does that mean every person who prepared gets to make the finals?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s smile faded, and she sighed. "Even though it¡¯s a bit disappointing, it¡¯s no big deal. You made it, didn¡¯t you? If even one of us gets through, I¡¯m satisfied."

    With that, she looped her arm through Su Qingnuan¡¯s and smiled lightly. "Come on, you¡¯re treating me to dinner today¡ªa celebration!"

    "Alright!" Su Qingnuan brightened up, smiling softly. "Dinner¡¯s on me today."

    But since she¡¯d be homete tonight, she¡¯d have to report in first.

    Su Qingnuan dialed Fu Yihan¡¯s number, exining the reason, then quietly waited for his reply.

    There was a moment of silence on the other end before he finally said, "Where are you now?"

    "At school."

    "Stay there for a little while longer. A-Qi will take you two to the restaurant. Let him apany you."

    "...Alright."

    After he hung up, Su Qingnuan let out a sigh.

    "Why so dejected?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked,ughing.

    Su Qingnuan waved her phone around helplessly. "He agreed to let me stay outter, but he said A-Qi has to follow us."

    "A-Qi? That¡¯s the driver, right?"

    "Mhm."

    "Himing along is actually pretty good!" Gu Xiaoxiao patted her arm and smiled lightly. "It¡¯ste, and two girls alone outside isn¡¯t so safe. Your husband¡¯s actually being thoughtful."

    "Uh?"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, not expecting Gu Xiaoxiao to think that way.

    "What?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, puzzled. "Is there a problem?"

    "No." Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head and smiled. "No problem at all."

    Under Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s persuasion, Su Qingnuan decided not to dwell on unnecessary details anymore.

    That evening, the two enjoyed a rare, carefree night out, having a wonderful dinner together before heading home by car.

    On the ride back, Su Qingnuan felt a mix of happiness and mncholy.

    People always said that after great joyes sorrow.

    Following her excitement with Gu Xiaoxiao earlier, sitting now in the quiet of the backseat, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but feel a little down.

    Luckily, the mncholy didn¡¯tst long¡ªbefore she knew it, they were home.

    Entering the house quietly, Su Qingnuan saw the old man sitting on the sofa, her brow furrowing slightly.

    The old man always found ways to trouble her. Now, just seeing him made her want to avoid him altogether.

    "Ah, Qingruo!" Hearing the sound, the old man turned his head and smiled warmly. "You¡¯re finally back."

    Su Qingnuan gave an awkward smile and nodded. "Grandpa, why are you still sitting out here? Shouldn¡¯t you be resting already?"

    "Couldn¡¯t sleep!" The old man patted the spot next to him with a big grin. "Come over here. Grandpa wants to chat for a bit."

    Her body stiffened slightly, but she didn¡¯t move.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" The old man¡¯s smile disappeared, and he looked at her with a stern face. "What, now even talking to Grandpa is too much to ask?"

    "No... not at all." Inside, Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly, but her face showed a polite smile as she walked over and sat down beside him.

    "Grandpa, if you have something to say, please go ahead."

    Seeing her earnest expression, the old man softened his smile. "It¡¯s nothing big... I just wanted to ask something."

    He paused for a moment, ncing around to make sure no one else was paying attention, and then continued, "How are things between you and Yihan?"

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then immediately nodded. "We¡¯re fine. Why do you ask?"

    "No reason." The old man awkwardly chuckled, lowering his voice. "I know I¡¯ve caused you some trouble before, but still, there¡¯s something I want to say..."

    Suddenly, he stopped. His weathered eyes gleamed with a hint of sorrow.

    "I¡¯m getting on in years, and I don¡¯t have much time left. All I hope for is to see a great-grandchild before I go. You know what Yihan¡¯s personality is like. If..."

    As expected...

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes internally. At this point, it seemed like the old man¡¯s head was filled with nothing but the idea of a great-grandchild.

    "Grandpa," Su Qingnuan interrupted him with a gentle smile, "I¡¯ll do my best."

    "Good, good!" The old man nodded repeatedly, his face lighting up with joy.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly. Just as she was about to stand, her hand was suddenly grabbed, and something was pressed into her palm.

 Chapter 82 Racking Oneéˆ¥æªš Brains

    <h4>Chapter 82: Chapter 82 Racking One¡¯s Brains</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    Blinking her eyes, the old man chuckled warmly and said, "Waiting for your good news!"

    With that, the old man stood up and walked toward the bedroom.

    Only when the old man¡¯s figure disappeared did Su Qingnuan lower her gaze to her hands.

    There were several round pills in her palm; it was hard to tell what they were.

    Su Qingnuan sighed softly, clenched her fingers tightly, and went upstairs.

    ...

    Fu Yihan was reading through documents when a knock sounded at the door.

    "Come in."

    Su Qingnuan cautiously pushed the door open, noticing the busyness of the man inside. She asked softly, "Mr. Fu, may I say a few words to you?"

    "Hm."

    Stepping lightly into the study, Su Qingnuan ced the pills in her hand on the desk.

    ncing at the pills out of the corner of his eye, Fu Yihan asked nonchntly, "What are these?"

    "...Grandfather gave me the medicine."

    The hand flipping through the documents stopped. Fu Yihan lifted his gaze to look at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan forced a bitter smile and said, "He handed it to me downstairs just now, without giving me a chance to refuse."

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze lingered on the white pills for a long time in contemtion.

    "I understand. You can leave now."

    With that, he lowered his head again and resumed flipping through the documents.

    Seeing how busy he was, Su Qingnuan decided not to disturb him further.

    "By the way."

    Fu Yihan suddenly looked up, his gazending on her as she approached the door. He raised his eyebrows and sneered coldly, "The Su family sent an invitation. It¡¯s your sister¡¯s birthday; they want you to attend the birthday party."

    "...."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head silently.

    "Technically, I should apany you, but you probably don¡¯t want me to go with you, right?" Fu Yihan watched her with a half-smile, quietly waiting for her reaction.

    After a while, Su Qingnuan finally looked up with a faint smile and replied, "Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Fu. I won¡¯t trouble you."

    Her smile stiffened slightly, and the door closed resolutely. The expression on Fu Yihan¡¯s face was far from pleasant.

    He had initially intended to watch her squirm, but he hadn¡¯t expected her to be soposed¡ªmiscalction.

    What Fu Yihan didn¡¯t know was that the moment the door closed, the smile on Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips vanished.

    Her birthday and Su Yuerou¡¯s birthday were close, just a few days apart.

    Yet everyone in the Su family only remembered Su Yuerou¡¯s birthday.

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly.

    There was no way she would attend. With so many people present, it would be impossible to keep her cover.

    Rather than risk going back, it was better not to go at all. Thus, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t give the matter any more thought.

    On the very day, Su Qingnuan slung her bag over her shoulder and headed to school. Fu Yihan noticed and stopped her.

    "Not going to the Su family?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, replying earnestly, "The finals are in a few days. I need to focus on my studies right now. I¡¯ve already discussed this with my father, and they won¡¯t mind."

    Skeptical, Fu Yihan scrutinized her without saying a word.

    "I mean it!" Su Qingnuan pulled out her phone and showed him the text she sent to her father. "Look. My father already agreed."

    The text contained only two parts: Su Qingnuan¡¯s lengthy message and her father¡¯s curt reply¡ªone single word, "Fine."

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "Even if you¡¯re not going, the formalities shouldn¡¯t be skipped."

    "Mm, I understand."

    He didn¡¯t press Su Qingnuan further and gestured for her to go about her business.

    Su Qingnuan grabbed her bag hurriedly and headed out.

    Once in the car, she urged Ah Qi to take her to school.

    In truth, there were no sses or review sessions at school today; Su Qingnuan simply didn¡¯t want to go to the Su family.

    In her rush to disembark, Su Qingnuan dashed directly into Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s dorm room.

    At the time, Gu Xiaoxiao was still asleep. In a haze, hearing sounds, she jolted upright and demanded sharply, "Who¡¯s there?"

    Turning back, Su Qingnuan looked at Gu Xiaoxiao in surprise.

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze for a moment, staring nkly at Su Qingnuan.

    "What are you doing?" Su Qingnuan teased with augh, waving a hand. "You don¡¯t recognize me anymore?"

    "Qingnuan?" Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "Isn¡¯t today the weekend? Why are you here?"

    "I¡¯m here to study with you." Calmly setting her things down, Su Qingnuan took a seat. "Aren¡¯t you going to get up?"

    "...You really came to study?" Sliding off thedder with resignation, Gu Xiaoxiao said, "I thought you might havee to hang out."

    "Wishful thinking. I¡¯m here to oversee your studies."

    As she spoke, Su Qingnuanid out all the materials she had brought on the desk, smiling faintly. "Don¡¯t struggle. Hurry over."

    Gu Xiaoxiao sighed and gave up, taking a seat.

    The two of them pored over thepetition materials together until noon.

    Time flies quickest when one is busy.

    Standing up and stretchingzily, Gu Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. "Alright, it¡¯s lunchtime. Let¡¯s go out for lunch first."

    "Mm, hold on. I need to finish up..."

    "Stop looking!" Gu Xiaoxiao pulled the book away from in front of Su Qingnuan, exasperated. "At the rate you¡¯re going, we might end up having dinner instead."

    Snapping back to reality, Su Qingnuan chuckled wryly. "Alright then. Let¡¯s have lunch first."

    After tidying up briefly, the two of themughed and chatted as they headed downstairs.

    "Su Qingnuan!"

    A sudden voice made them stop in their tracks.

    Su Yuerou stood under the dormitory building, her posture arrogant as she stared at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, lowering her voice. "Why are you here?"

    "What¡¯s wrong? Afraid of meing here?" Su Yuerou sneered. "Did you do something guilty and fear having it exposed?"

    "...Stop making trouble!" Su Qingnuan pulled Gu Xiaoxiao along to bypass Su Yuerou. "Let¡¯s go. Don¡¯t pay her any mind."

    Su Yuerou quickly moved to block their path.

    "Leave? What are you thinking?" Su Yuerou squinted at her, a sinister glint shing in her eyes. "Today is my birthday. Why aren¡¯t youing?"

    "I have apetition to prepare for. I don¡¯t have time."

    Facing Su Qingnuan¡¯s indifferent demeanor, Su Yuerou scoffed coldly. "Saying you don¡¯t have time¡ªit¡¯s all an excuse! You know that if you don¡¯t go, Lin An won¡¯t go either!"

    Her brows furrowed again, Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly and looked at Su Yuerou.

    "Lin An and I are just friends now. Whether he goes or not has nothing to do with me."

    "Friends? Who are you trying to fool with that ¡¯friends¡¯ nonsense?" Su Yuerou¡¯s lips curled spitefully, her expression contorted. "I never would¡¯ve thought, Su Qingnuan¡ªlooking all frail and sickly on the outside¡ªyou¡¯d actually be so skilled at stringing men along!"

    Su Qingnuan froze momentarily, clenching her teeth as she stared down Su Yuerou.

    "Watch your mouth!" Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t stand it any longer. She stepped forward to shield Su Qingnuan and reprimanded harshly, "She¡¯s your elder sister. Is this how you talk to your sister?"

    "I don¡¯t have such a shameless sister! Married but still scheming to seduce her childhood sweetheart!" Her disdainful gazended on Su Qingnuan, and she sneered coldly, "Whore!"

    "p¡ª"

    The sharp sound of the p echoed in front of the quiet dormitory entrance.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand trembled slightly. She lowered her gaze to her reddened palm, silent.

    Su Yuerou turned her face to the side, covering her cheek as she stared at her in shock.

    Even Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t help but show a look of astonishment.

    "You actually hit me?" Su Yuerou asked.

 Chapter 83 Lesson

    <h4>Chapter 83: Chapter 83 Lesson</h4><h4></h4>

    Her hands were still trembling slightly, yet Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze remained unwavering.

    She looked at Su Yuerou, the corners of her lips curling into a smile.

    "So what if I hit you?" Su Qingnuan said with a faint smile. "If you keep spouting nonsense, I¡¯ll call security to kick you out. This is a school, not a ce for you to act out!"

    "Act out?" Su Yuerou rolled up her sleeves and rushed forward. "You were the one who hit me first! Trying to twist the truth! If I don¡¯t teach you a lesson today, I won¡¯t be a Su anymore!"

    Seeing her charge forward aggressively, Gu Xiaoxiao hurriedly stepped in front of Su Qingnuan.

    "Su Yuerou! You say such horrible things, and yet you won¡¯t let your sister get angry? Don¡¯t you know your sister isn¡¯t in good health? You just had to provoke her!"

    "Not in good health?" Su Yuerou sneered coldly as she struggled to push Gu Xiaoxiao aside. "She looks perfectly fine to me¡ªbeen alive too damn long if you ask me!"

    Watching the two entangled in conflict up ahead, Su Qingnuan clutched her chest and stepped back.

    Her face was pale, her breathingbored.

    Everything Su Yuerou said felt like knives, relentlessly stabbing into her heart.

    "Su Yuerou! Don¡¯t cross the line! This is a school, not your home¡ªdon¡¯t think you can act recklessly here!" Gu Xiaoxiao defended Su Qingnuan, her expression stern.

    ncing at Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Yuerou sneered coldly. "So not only do you seduce men, you have friends willing to stick up for you too. But let me tell you, Su Qingnuan¡ª"

    Her gaze locked onto Su Qingnuan, sharp and venomous like a snake about to strike, ready to bite and poison her.

    Pressing down on Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath. "Su Yuerou, today is your birthday. If you want to act out, do it at home. No one here is going to indulge you."

    Seeing her calm demeanor, Su Yuerou gritted her teeth. "Su Qingnuan, just you wait! I won¡¯t let you win so easily!"

    With that, she stormed off.

    Watching her retreating figure, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly. "Does your family spoil her like this? Saying whatever she wants?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly, wrapping her arm around Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulder. "Alright, don¡¯t get mad. That¡¯s just how her temper is¡ªI don¡¯t even bother engaging with her."

    "Not engaging is better!" Gu Xiaoxiao muttered through gritted teeth. "That brat is just asking for trouble!"

    Smiling faintly, Su Qingnuan nodded. "Exactly."

    Thanks to Su Yuerou¡¯s sudden appearance, their mood was disrupted, so Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed a quick bite outside before heading back to the dormitory.

    Just as they got back to the dorm, Su Qingnuan¡¯s phone rang.

    Seeing the caller ID, Su Qingnuan froze for a moment.

    Why would Fu Yihan call her out of the blue?

    Feeling uneasy, she answered the call softly. "Hello?"

    "Where are you?"

    "At school."

    "Pack up and be at the gate in half an hour."

    "Huh?"

    The phone emitted a series of beeps¡ªthe call had already ended.

    Staring at her now-ck screen, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Gu Xiaoxiao, noticing her troubled expression, asked curiously, "Who called?"

    "No one." Su Qingnuan put down her phone and looked apologetically at Gu Xiaoxiao. "I¡¯m sorry, Xiaoxiao, I need to head back."

    "Head back?" Gu Xiaoxiao lowered her gaze to check the time. "It¡¯s still early¡ªyou¡¯re going back now?"

    "Yeah...." Su Qingnuan offered a bitter smile. "He called, said something came up at home, told me to return."

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes lit up instantly. "He? Is it Fu Yihan? Can I go with you and meet him? I haven¡¯t seen him yet!"

    "... He¡¯s not too fond of meeting strangers," Su Qingnuan said tactfully.

    Disappointed, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed. "Alright, let me know when things get better between you two so you can take me to meet him."

    Awkwardly smiling, Su Qingnuan nodded. "Okay."

    This "better rtionship"¡ªSu Qingnuan wasn¡¯t sure if it would happen before she left.

    The thought made her let out an involuntary sigh.

    After packing lightly, Su Qingnuan headed out of the dormitory and out the campus gates.

    Standing at the school entrance, Su Qingnuan looked around but didn¡¯t spot the familiar car.

    It hadn¡¯t arrived yet, she supposed.

    Calming herself, Su Qingnuan stood quietly at the entrance, waiting.

    "Senior!"

    Su Qingnuan turned her head to see an adorably cute young man running up to Shen Zhiliu.

    "Senior!" The young man stopped in front of Su Qingnuan, visibly excited, his eyes darting around.

    "You¡¯re calling me?" Su Qingnuan smiled. "Which major are you? I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve seen you before."

    "...I¡¯m in theputer science department too¡ªI¡¯m a freshman."

    No wonder¡ªhe did look unfamiliar.

    "Oh, a freshman. It¡¯s been a year since you started. Are you adjusted to life here?"

    "Yes!" Facing Su Qingnuan¡¯s gentle demeanor, the young freshman nodded quickly, his lips curving into a smile that revealed two adorable dimples. "I heard Senior made it to the finals with the top score¡ªcongrattions, Senior!"

    "It¡¯s just the finals." Su Qingnuan said with a wry smile. "There are still tougher contestants waiting for me, so there¡¯s no reason to celebrate just yet."

    The freshman blushed and lowered his head shyly. "True, but I believe in you, Senior¡ªyou can definitely do it!"

    "Thank you."

    Su Qingnuan smiled modestly, her gaze lingering on the freshman.

    After a moment, he hesitated, took out a letter, and handed it to Su Qingnuan.

    "Senior, I have something to tell you, but I can¡¯t say it face to face, so..."

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, staring nkly at the freshman.

    Seeing her hesitate, the freshman quickly said, "Please don¡¯t misunderstand, Senior! I just wanted to share my thoughts¡ªI¡¯m not trying to pressure you or anything. I know you have someone you like."

    Someone she liked?

    Finally snapping out of it, Su Qingnuan looked at the trembling letter in his hand, wavering and uncertain.

    With a softugh, Su Qingnuan epted the letter.

    "I appreciate your gesture, but something like this¡ªdon¡¯t do it a second time." She waved the envelope lightly, her eyes filled with amusement yet tinged with an unreadable sadness.

    The freshman stiffened slightly, lowering his head with drooping shoulders, looking somewhat pitiful.

    From afar, it almost looked like she was bullying someone.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly. "If you ever need help with schoolwork or anything else, feel free to ask me."

    His eyes, once dim, lit up instantly.

    "Really?" The young freshman asked excitedly, looking up at her.

    Su Qingnuan nodded. "Really."

    "Then... then..." The freshman iled his arms, struggling to articte his thoughts.

    Su Qingnuan smirked yfully. "Then what? Lost your words?"

    "No!" The freshman quickly refuted. "Can Ie to you for guidance in the future?"

    "Of course."

    "That¡¯s amazing!" The freshman stomped his feet in excitement, his gaze toward Su Qingnuan brimming with gratitude.

    Watching his ecstatic expression, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile, like she was watching a joyful child.

    The young freshman jumped up and down for a while before he suddenly paused and turned to speak to Su Qingnuan.

    "Beep beep beep¡ª¡ª"

    A honk from behind disrupted their conversation abruptly.

 Chapter 84 Malicious Intentions

    <h4>Chapter 84: Chapter 84 Malicious Intentions</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan turned her head, and not far from the street, a familiar car was parked.

    "Junior, I have to leave now."

    "Alright, see youter, Senior!"

    Su Qingnuan waved her hand and jogged toward the car.

    She opened the rear door and her gaze met a pair of cold, indifferent eyes, causing Su Qingnuan to freeze for a moment.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan looked at him nervously. "Is something wrong?"

    Fu Yihan withdrew his icy gaze and stared straight ahead, expressionless.

    "Get in the car."

    Su Qingnuan got in without hesitation, not daring to linger.

    The car slowly started moving, and Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan¡¯s expression out of the corner of her eye.

    Cold, unapproachable.

    Different from his usual demeanor, Fu Yihan seemed even more distant and indifferent at this moment.

    Su Qingnuan huddled quietly in a corner, not daring to make any sound.

    As the scenery outside became increasingly familiar, Su Qingnuan finally couldn¡¯t hold back and spoke.

    "Are we going to the Su family¡¯s house?"

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond and closed his eyes.

    Noticing this, Su Qingnuan turned her pleading gaze to the driver, A-Qi.

    A-Qi noticed Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze and nodded slightly. "Yes, Young Madam."

    "Focus on driving."

    The icy tone carried a trace of impatience.

    A-Qi fell silent, saying no more.

    He¡¯s really angry...

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t sure why he was upset, but judging by the situation, it clearly had something to do with her.

    Trying to minimize her presence, Su Qingnuan sat quietly.

    After a long while, the car stopped in front of the Su family vi.

    Su Qingnuan got out of the car and obediently stood by its side, waiting for A-Qi to assist Fu Yihan out.

    Seeing Fu Yihan settle into the wheelchair, Su Qingnuan reached out to grip the handles.

    "No need for you to push me."

    The icy tone carried a hint of disdain, leaving Su Qingnuan stunned.

    A-Qi shot Su Qingnuan a meaningful nce before taking her ce, pushing Fu Yihan into the house.

    After walking a few steps, they both stopped, and Fu Yihan turned his head, frowning slightly.

    "What are you standing there for? Does this look like my house?"

    "...." Su Qingnuan quickly hurried forward to follow them.

    From the moment they entered, the house was decorated with pink balloons, perfectly matching Su Yuerou¡¯s personality.

    She had always been this way at home¡ªlively and adorable, the apple of her parents¡¯ eyes.

    "Yihan is here?"

    A cheerful voice rang out as Jiang Liwen and Su Yuerou made their way to the door. Smiling, Jiang Liwen said, "I was just telling Yuerou to go pick you up, but I didn¡¯t expect you to arrive so quickly."

    Fu Yihan nced at her briefly and said in a low voice, "Grandfather told us toe earlier."

    He hadn¡¯t nned on showing up here. If it weren¡¯t for Grandfather¡¯s insistence, he might have thrown Su Qingnuan over to them and left himself.

    "Come,e, have a seat!"

    Although it was her own home, Su Qingnuan felt like an outsider.

    She stood there awkwardly, ignored by everyone.

    Helpless, she followed Fu Yihan deeper into the house. After a few steps, the two suddenly halted.

    Su Xiong was sitting on the sofa, watching them with a wide smile.

    "Dad." Su Qingnuan took the initiative and greeted him.

    Su Xiong nodded, his gaze falling on Fu Yihan. Smiling, he said, "This must be Yihan? I was away on business earlier and missed the chance to meet you. My apologies."

    Fu Yihan gave him a cold nce and replied with a curt "Mm," without any additional response.

    This would normally seem fine.

    Yet, in front of her father, for some reason, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt a bit embarrassed.

    Faced with Fu Yihan¡¯s rudeness, Su Xiong didn¡¯t address the issue. He merely smiled faintly and turned to Su Qingnuan.

    "Yuerou, your brother Lin An will be arriving soon. Go to the door and greet him, okay?"

    So Shen Lin¡¯an wasing too?

    Hadn¡¯t Su Yuerou said he wasn¡¯ting?

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly and whispered, "Dad, maybe it¡¯s more fitting for sister to handle this... After all, the two of them are engaged."

    "...."

    Su Xiong paused for a moment before smiling slightly. "Your sister is helping your mom right now. You can go; it¡¯s fine."

    Really, it¡¯s fine?

    Su Qingnuan nced in the direction Su Yuerou had just headed, her eyebrows tightly knitted.

    Su Yuerou¡¯s temper was notorious for ring up at will,pletely disregarding others.

    After pondering for a moment, Su Qingnuan decided to head to the kitchen.

    Su Yuerou and Jiang Liwen were huddled together, whispering about something.

    "Mom." Su Qingnuan feigned politeness as she called out, "Dad said Brother Lin An would be arriving soon and asked sister to go greet him."

    Su Yuerou turned and looked at Su Qingnuan with anger in her eyes.

    "Didn¡¯t Dad ask you to go?" Su Yuerou snapped.

    Su Qingnuan raised her eyebrows. "Yihan is here, so it¡¯s not appropriate for me to go. You should handle it instead."

    With that, Su Qingnuan turned and walked out.

    "Mom!" Su Yuerou watched her walk away calmly and angrily eximed, "Look at how arrogant she¡¯s acting now!"

    "Stay calm," Jiang Liwen said softly, pressing Su Yuerou¡¯s hand. "If you lose your temper now, she gets exactly what she wants. So here¡¯s what you should do: don¡¯t react, don¡¯t get angry, don¡¯t engage¡ªjust let it go."

    "...Really do nothing?" Su Yuerou frowned.

    "When Shen Lin¡¯an arrives, stick to the n. Don¡¯t worry; Mom will help you."

    Jiang Liwen looked at Su Yuerou lovingly, stroking the top of her head.

    Su Yuerou nodded and leaned onto Jiang Liwen¡¯s shoulder, murmuring, "Mom, Yuerou only has you to rely on."

    "How could that be! Silly child." Jiang Liwen patted Su Yuerou¡¯s back and smiled gently. "Your father is on your side too."

    "Dad always favors Sister," Su Yuerou pouted, expressing her dissatisfaction.

    Jiang Liwen smiled knowingly but said nothing.

    A little whileter, Su Yuerou emerged from the kitchen and caught sight of Su Qingnuan seated next to Fu Yihan. She red at her.

    Su Qingnuan ignored her, quietly eating fruit.

    "Aren¡¯t you going to help?"

    Su Qingnuan turned to see Fu Yihan looking at her. Hastily, she replied, "I¡¯m a guest."

    "A guest?" Fu Yihan asked with a faint smirk, "A guest after living here for over twenty years?"

    "....."

    ncing at her father sitting nearby, Su Qingnuan propped herself up and leaned closer to Fu Yihan.

    She rested against his shoulder, whispering softly into his ear, "If I go into the kitchen, I¡¯ll never get out."

    The warmth of her breath brushed against his earlobe.

    Fu Yihan tilted his head slightly, feeling his ear itch.

    Su Qingnuan gave him a hopeful look, her eyes practically saying, "Do you understand now?"

    Fu Yihan let out a quiet "Mm" and withdrew his gaze.

    "Pour me some water," Fu Yihan said.

    Su Qingnuan got up to get him the water.

    After he finished drinking, the itch he felt in his ears seemed to dissipate.

    Su Yuerou returned with Shen Lin¡¯an trailing behind her.

    Shen Lin¡¯an held both a gift and a cake.

    "Uncle Su, it¡¯s been a while," Shen Lin¡¯an greeted Su Xiong with a smile.

    Su Xiong nodded and smiled slightly, "Lin¡¯an, you¡¯re here! Come, have a seat."

    Shen Lin¡¯an ced his items down, sitting beside Su Xiong.

    As his eyes swept across, he caught sight of Su Qingnuan sitting next to Fu Yihan, and his expression froze briefly.

 Chapter 85 Happy Birthday

    <h4>Chapter 85: Chapter 85 Happy Birthday</h4><h4></h4>

    "Yihan, you know Lin An too, right? He grew up with Yuerou and the others, and they¡¯re very close," Su Xiong said with augh.

    "We¡¯ve met," Fu Yihan said indifferently. "We¡¯re not close."

    "It doesn¡¯t matter if you¡¯re not close! Just chat more in the future, talk more, and you¡¯ll be close in no time!" Su Xiongughed heartily.

    Su Qingnuan nced at the person beside her, smiling faintly. "We¡¯ll see about thatter, Dad. Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to try the new tea? I¡¯ll get it for you!"

    Su Xiong nodded. "Go ahead, I¡¯m getting thirsty as well."

    "Alright, I¡¯ll get it right away!"

    Heading to the tea room, Su Qingnuan observed the interactions in the living room. The two sides upied their respective spaces.

    Fu Yihan, for his part, didn¡¯t look particrly cheerful, while Su Xiong, on the other hand, was grinning from ear to ear.

    As for Shen Lin¡¯an, his expression was exceedingly awkward.

    Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly. After waiting a while in the tea room, she carried the tea out.

    "Here¡¯s this year¡¯s new tea; have a taste, everyone."

    After setting down the tea, Su Qingnuan turned and headed back into the tea room.

    "Yuerou!" Su Xiong suddenly called out. "Come over here and chat with us for a while, don¡¯t busy yourself."

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly. "Dad, didn¡¯t you just tell me earlier to go help in the kitchen?"

    "No need. We have so many servants at home; there¡¯s no reason for you to help." He patted the spot beside him, smiling warmly. "Come over here and sit."

    Reluctantly putting down what she was holding, Su Qingnuan walked over to sit down.

    "Lin An, look," Su Xiong said with a smile, holding Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s hand lightly. "Both of my daughters now have good matches in life. I can finally rest easy."

    Both?

    Su Qingnuan looked towards Shen Lin¡¯an, noting his helpless expression; she couldn¡¯t help but find it amusing.

    Her father¡¯s meaning was clear¡ªhe was talking about Su Yuerou¡¯s arranged marriage to Shen Lin¡¯an.

    Currently, Su Qingnuan was acting under Su Yuerou¡¯s name during the engagement negotiations. When it came time for Su Yuerou to marry, it would naturally be done under Su Qingnuan¡¯s identity.

    Everyone knew that Su Qingnuan and Shen Lin¡¯an had been in love for many years, and their marriage was simply a matter of time.

    "Uncle, please don¡¯t put it like that..." Shen Lin¡¯an said awkwardly. "Yuerou is sitting right here."

    "What¡¯s the matter?" Su Xiong chuckled. "It¡¯s all out in the open; what is there to avoid?

    "It¡¯s not that..." Shen Lin¡¯an nced at Su Qingnuan hesitantly, as if words were caught in his throat.

    "Mr. Su is really fortunate."

    The sudden cool voice broke the awkward atmosphere.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow slightly, smiling faintly. "To have two such wonderful daughters¡ªbeautiful, smart, and capable¡ªhow many people could possiblypete with that?"

    The address "Mr. Su" already created a sense of distance, and the polite tone behind the words caused Su Xiong¡¯s smile to freeze slightly.

    "Yihan, what you¡¯re saying, I..."

    "Mr. Su, no need to be humble. Look at Mr. Shen over there, eagerly waiting to marry your daughter. Isn¡¯t it obvious enough?"

    "....."

    The awkward atmosphere took on a strange, almost surreal air.

    Everyone understood Su Qingnuan¡¯s circumstances, yet when someone openly voiced them, it took on a different vor entirely.

    ncing at Su Qingnuan, Su Xiong said in a low voice, "Qingnuan, is Yihan in a bad mood today?"

    "....." Su Qingnuan shook her head, smiling faintly. "It¡¯s fine. He¡¯s always like this."

    Su Xiong nodded silently, choosing not to dwell on it further.

    The hidden undertones of the conversation had been entirely shifted in meaning by Fu Yihan¡¯s interjection.

    Su Qingnuan gave him a nce. His expression held no emotion, as if everything he had just said was nothing more than the most ordinary of remarks.

    The tense atmosphere lingered all the way until it was time to eat, with Jiang Liwen loudly calling everyone over to the dining table.

    Once seated, after the usual pleasantries, they finally began to discuss the main topics.

    Although Su Qingnuan disliked the pretense of such asions, she knew she couldn¡¯t avoid them altogether.

    "Yuerou! You need to eat more. Look at you, how have you gotten so thin?"

    A piece of meat suddenly appeared in her bowl. Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then looked up.

    Jiang Liwen¡¯s eyes squinted in a warm smile, her expression full of motherly affection.

    In the past, Su Qingnuan might have allowed herself thefort of convincing herself this was real. But now, she no longer needed to.

    "I¡¯m not thin." Su Qingnuan picked up the meat and ced it on the side of her bowl. "I haven¡¯t had much appetite recently and don¡¯t enjoy eating meat."

    After speaking, she took her chopsticks and grabbed a small piece of fish instead.

    Jiang Liwen¡¯s face stiffened slightly, and the look in her eyes toward Su Qingnuan subtly changed.

    "Just take what you¡¯d like to eat," Su Xiong said, pressing gently on Jiang Liwen¡¯s shoulder with a sigh. "You, really! The kids are grown; stop fussing."

    "....." Jiang Liwen forced a smile, sighing softly. "No matter how old children get, in a parent¡¯s eyes, they¡¯ll always be kids."

    "Yes, that¡¯s true." Su Xiong sighed as well, casting a meaningful look at Su Qingnuan. "Qingnuan, you ought to be more understanding of your mother."

    "Sure."

    Su Qingnuan gave a muted response, continuing to eat her meal at her own unhurried pace.

    After dinner, Jiang Liwen abruptly called Su Qingnuan to follow her upstairs.

    Despite her inner reluctance, Su Qingnuanplied.

    "Qingnuan." Jiang Liwen sat on the edge of the bed, holding her jewelry box in her hands. "Since you¡¯re getting married, and I haven¡¯t given you anything good, how about I give you this ne?"

    "I don¡¯t need a ne." Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, her voice soft. "Yihan has already given me lots of jewelry."

    Jiang Liwen¡¯s expression faltered for a moment, her brow furrowing as she stared at Su Qingnuan.

    "Su Qingnuan, you embarrassed me at the dining table earlier, and now you¡¯re refusing to cooperate again?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly, curving her lips. "Mom, do you really need my cooperation? Isn¡¯t Yuerou¡¯s cooperation all that matters to you?"

    "..."

    Jiang Liwen gazed at her with growing coolness, while Su Qingnuan met her stare calmly, unyielding.

    Despite being family, at this moment, there was an unmistakable feeling they were adversaries.

    After some time, Jiang Liwen withdrew her gaze.

    "Forget it. You¡¯re just a child; I won¡¯t hold it against you. But there¡¯s something you must help with."

    Su Qingnuan stayed silent, looking at her.

    Jiang Liwen took out a shiny silver ne from her jewelry box, holding it up with delight. "Isn¡¯t this beautiful? I bought it myself a long time ago, and now I want to give it to you."

    Seeing the jewelry being held out inches from her, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t reach out to take it; instead, she stepped back slightly.

    "What is it you want?" Jiang Liwen asked.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "Mom, I can¡¯t ept something for nothing. Just tell me what you want me to do."

    Jiang Liwen chuckled, patting Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm. "Now that¡¯s more like it."

    She leaned closer to Su Qingnuan and whispered, "In a bit, I¡¯ll have Lin Ane upstairs. You¡¯ve been close to him for so many years, so help me persuade him to marry Yuerou."

    "Marry Yuerou?" Su Qingnuan raised her eyebrows, half-smiling. "Didn¡¯t you say they were already engaged? Why aren¡¯t they married yet?"

    "It¡¯s a long story. Anyway, all you need to do is listen to me and persuade Shen Lin¡¯an."

    "Just persuade him?" Su Qingnuan asked skeptically.

 Chapter 86: Strategy

    <h4>Chapter 86: Chapter 86: Strategy</h4><h4></h4>

    "Just try to persuade him." Jiang Liwen shoved the ne into Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand. "I¡¯m going downstairs now to get Shen Lin¡¯an toe up. The rest is up to you."

    Su Qingnuan looked at the ne in her hand, her expression full of implication, and nodded.

    "Alright."

    "Thud¡ª"

    The door closed as Jiang Liwen left the room.

    Su Qingnuan listened to the sound of footsteps fading, then slowly walked to the door and opened it.

    Watching Jiang Liwen¡¯s figure disappear down the corridor, Su Qingnuan slipped out of her room and quickly ducked into the guest room next door.

    Hidden in the guest room, she pulled out her phone.

    Theirst conversation still lingered on her chat app with Shen Lin¡¯an. Su Qingnuan typed deliberately, then sent him a message.

    No response came to the message, but footsteps soon echoed down the hallway.

    "Hurry, hurry! Auntie has something to tell you." Jiang Liwen¡¯s impatient voice sounded from outside.

    Leaning against the door, Su Qingnuan cracked it open slightly.

    The gap wasn¡¯trge, but it was enough for Su Qingnuan to see the world outside the door clearly.

    "Go on in." Jiang Liwen gave Shen Lin¡¯an a push into the room. "I¡¯ll wait for you two outside. Qingnuan said she wanted to talk to you."

    With that, she shut the door.

    "Click," the sound of the door locking echoed.

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow slightly, watching as Jiang Liwen¡¯s satisfied smile appeared before she left the scene.

    This is what she meant by "persuading him"?

    Su Qingnuan gave a cold smirk as she stepped out of the guest room and stood outside the door.

    "Hey? Auntie? There¡¯s no one in here!"

    Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s voice came through the door, sounding annoyed.

    Su Qingnuan raised her phone and made a call.

    A familiar ringtone came from inside.

    "Qingnuan? Where are you? Didn¡¯t Auntie say you had something to talk to me about?" Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s tone carried a hint of urgency.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled coldly. "You actually believe anything she says?"

    Shooting a nce down the hallway, Su Qingnuan kept her words brief: "Just stay in there quietly for now. I¡¯ll think of a way to get you out. Don¡¯t make a scene."

    "...Alright."

    Ending the call, Su Qingnuan once again hid herself in the guest room.

    Around ten minutester, voices rose from the stairwell.

    "Why is it taking him so long toe back down?"

    "What is he even doing? Lin¡¯an-ge?"

    The familiar voices grew closer. Su Yuerou and Jiang Liwen stood in front of the door, loudly shouting for Shen Lin¡¯an.

    But the room remained silent. A strange glimmer shed in both women¡¯s eyes as they exchanged nces.

    "See, Yihan, we told you there¡¯s no one in there!"

    Fu Yihan?

    Surprised, Su Qingnuan pushed the door gap slightly wider.

    Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t in his wheelchair. Instead, he was leaning entirely on Ah Qi for support, standing upright.

    His stern face carried an even more biting chill at the moment.

    "Where is he?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "Inside, maybe?" Su Yuerou ventured, ncing cautiously at Jiang Liwen.

    Jiang Liwen nodded. "When I came up earlier, they were inside."

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan looked at Ah Qi.

    Ah Qi nodded, then helped support Fu Yihan against the wall before stepping toward the door to knock briskly.

    Soon after, the door opened from the inside.

    Shen Lin¡¯an stood there with an expressionless face, his voice icy cold.

    "What are you all doing here?"

    "Lin¡¯an-ge, didn¡¯t Qingnuan-meimeie in with you?" Su Yuerou craned her neck to look inside. "Strange, we couldn¡¯t find her anywhere."

    Snorting, Shen Lin¡¯an stepped aside to reveal the room behind him. "If you¡¯re looking for something,e in and check for yourselves. See if you can find anything."

    "..." Su Yuerou nced inside, offering a hollowugh. "No, no, we just wanted to see if Qingnuan was with you."

    Jiang Liwen also looked around. Her eyes scanned the room, but there was no sign of Su Qingnuan. She asked, puzzled, "Yuerou, where is she? Howe she¡¯s not here?"

    "I¡¯m right here."

    Everyone turned around in surprise.

    Su Qingnuan appeared at the guest room door, holding a pillow in her arms.

    "I felt a little tired earlier, so I came over here to rest for a while."

    Seeing Fu Yihan, she quickly tossed the pillow aside and walked over to support him, her expression filled with concern. "Yihan, why did youe up here?"

    Fu Yihan shot her a re. "Afraid you¡¯d get eaten by a big bad wolf, so I came to check on you."

    "..." Su Qingnuan let out a helplessugh. "What are you talking about? This is my house, not some wolf den."

    "If you ask me, it¡¯s even more dangerous than a wolf den." Fu Yihan gave a faint, inscrutable smirk as his gaze swept over the crowd in the hallway.

    "As long as she¡¯s safe, it¡¯s fine!" Jiang Liwen quickly stepped forward to ease the tension. "Let¡¯s go downstairs. We haven¡¯t even cut the cake yet!"

    "Alright!" Su Qingnuan smiled gently as she helped Fu Yihan. "I¡¯ll help you down."

    Though she supported him, Fu Yihan still struggled noticeably.

    By the time they reached the stairs, he was already drenched in sweat.

    The stairs were insurmountable, leaving no choice but for Ah Qi to carry him down.

    Yet Fu Yihan¡¯s deeply reluctant expression made Su Qingnuan pensive.

    She thought to herself, if only Fu Yihan¡¯s legs were still fine.

    Such a proud and brilliant man¡ªsurely, he¡¯d go so much further than he has now.

    Coming downstairs, they found Su Xiong calmly watching TV.

    Seeing the group descend, he chuckled, "Didn¡¯t I tell you all you¡¯d have toe back down? Why go through all this fuss for nothing?"

    Pushing the now-seated Fu Yihan in his wheelchair, Su Qingnuan smiled softly. "Dad, Yihan and I need to leave early."

    "Huh?" Su Xiong was startled. "You haven¡¯t even had the birthday cake yet! Why the rush to leave?"

    "Grandfather called. There¡¯s an urgent matter at home, and we need to get back right away."

    "The old man called?" Su Xiong stood abruptly, anxious. "Then you¡¯d better hurry. Be careful on the road."

    "Alright."

    As she pushed Fu Yihan toward the door, Su Qingnuan noticed Shen Lin¡¯an following closely behind.

    "Mr. Shen?" Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled. "Is there something you need?"

    Without meeting her eyes, Shen Lin¡¯an stepped in front of Fu Yihan. "Mr. Fu, may I catch a ride with you?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes flickered with a trace of surprise as he nced at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips quirked into a faint smirk as he regarded Shen Lin¡¯an. "The wine isn¡¯t what you¡¯re after, is it?"

    "Correct." Shen Lin¡¯an nodded, smiling openly. "There¡¯s something I¡¯d like to talk to you about."

    Impressed by his candor, Fu Yihan nodded. "Alright, get in."

    Su Qingnuan sat in the passenger seat, while Fu Yihan and Shen Lin¡¯an took the back.

    The atmosphere between the two in the backseat was as tense as a powder keg, teetering on the brink of explosion.

    As the car cruised down the quiet streets, Su Qingnuan kept ncing at the rearview mirror, monitoring the situation behind her.

    "Mr. Fu, I envy you."

    The abruptly spoken words startled not only Su Qingnuan but Fu Yihan as well, who turned his head in surprise.

    "Envy me?" Narrowing his eyes, Fu Yihan examined Shen Lin¡¯an.

    Shen Lin¡¯an nodded, his gaze piercing past them tond on a loose strand of hair, his smile faint. "Yes, envy. You married the woman I¡¯ve thought about for many, many years."

    "..."

 Chapter 87 Friendship

    <h4>Chapter 87: Chapter 87 Friendship</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan suddenly turned her head, looking at Shen Lin¡¯an in shock.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes held a trace of confusion as well, staring at Shen Lin¡¯an with a half-smile.

    "Lin¡¯an-gege! What are you saying?" Su Qingnuan looked at him usingly, her displeasure written all over her face.

    Shen Lin¡¯an didn¡¯t look at her, instead smiling faintly: "Since childhood, I always thought, when I marry her, I would treat her well."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan panicked and nced at Fu Yihan, thetter staring at her with an expressionless face.

    "..." Su Qingnuan dared not speak further, lowering her head.

    "Go on," Fu Yihan said.

    Shen Lin¡¯an nced briefly at Su Qingnuan and continued, "But now, those thoughts no longer exist. People have to face reality sooner orter."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, smiling faintly: "Since you liked her so much, why not go and win her back?"

    "Win her back?" Shen Lin¡¯an chuckled lightly: "Do you think I haven¡¯t tried before?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s back stiffened slightly, and she straightened her posture.

    "Oh? You¡¯ve tried?"

    The voice carried a deep significance, tinted with an inexplicable amusement.

    "I¡¯ve tried, but didn¡¯t seed." Shen Lin¡¯an lifted his head helplessly, his wistful gaze falling on Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head even further.

    Fu Yihan nced at her with a half-smile, then continued, "What a pity."

    "Indeed, a pity." Shen Lin¡¯an sighed deeply, "But I¡¯ve already made things clear with her. Now, I only treat her as a younger sister. As long as she¡¯s living well, that¡¯s enough."

    "How noble of you," Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and smiled, "Whoever you like must be really happy."

    "Of course, she is happy," Shen Lin¡¯an looked at the barely visible back of her head, smiling faintly, "At least, I¡¯ve seen smiles on her face that I¡¯d never seen before."

    Su Qingnuan paused and turned to look at him.

    Shen Lin¡¯an had a faint smile at the corner of his lips, his expression appearing exceedingly gentle.

    "She¡¯s very happy now; I¡¯m certain."

    "So confident, huh?" Fu Yihan looked at Su Qingnuan, "Qingnuan, are you happy now?"

    "..."

    After a long moment of silence, Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled: "I¡¯m happy."

    "How coincidental, it seems your marriage has brought happiness to everyone."

    The sarcastic tone scratched at Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart like ws, leaving her utterly annoyed.

    "Yes, everyone is happy."

    Shen Lin¡¯an fell silent, turning his gaze toward the window, his expression indifferent.

    In such an atmosphere, Su Qingnuan dared not say a word either, quietly remaining seated.

    After an unknown length of time, Shen Lin¡¯an suddenly spoke: "Let me off ahead; I¡¯ll alight here."

    The car slowed to a stop, the rear door opened, and Shen Lin¡¯an exited.

    Suddenly, the side window made a sound.

    Startled, Su Qingnuan turned her head to look.

    Shen Lin¡¯an was standing by the passenger side, smiling as he looked at her.

    ncing at Fu Yihan briefly, Su Qingnuan slowly cranked down the window.

    "Lin¡¯an-gege." Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly, asking, "Do you have something else to say?"

    "Yes." Shen Lin¡¯an nodded and raised his hand.

    A sharp pain spread from her forehead; his cool fingers pressed against the center of her brow.

    Shen Lin¡¯an had a faint smile at the corner of his lips: "You were right earlier. I won¡¯t let you down. Don¡¯t let me down either. Live your life well."

    His gaze was extraordinarily earnest, and as he looked into Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes, his expression radiated warmth.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, then turned her eyes away, smiling as she nodded: "Got it, don¡¯t worry."

    Shen Lin¡¯an left.

    His retreating figure brimmed with suave nonchnce and carefree elegance, drawing envy from all who saw.

    "What are you staring nkly for? Drive,"

    A cold voice sounded from behind, prompting the chauffeur Ah Qi to promptly start the vehicle, which resumed cruising along the silent stretch of road.

    After Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s departure, the atmosphere in the car turned strange, though Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t quite ce the peculiarity.

    The car came to a halt, and Su Qingnuan quickly pushed open the door and stepped out.

    "Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll push you."

    Fu Yihan nced at her, his brow slightly furrowed.

    "..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand paused as she reached for the wheelchair¡¯s handle, cautiously observing him before pulling her hand back.

    Noticing her action, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow: "What are you doing?"

    "...Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked at him in confusion, "Weren¡¯t you signaling me not to push you?"

    "Since when did I say not to push?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly, "Wasn¡¯t it you deciding on your own not to?"

    "No, no!" Su Qingnuan quickly waved her hands in denial, nervously exining: "I thought you didn¡¯t want me to push."

    "..." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, turning his back to her, "Hurry up and push. Don¡¯t waste time."

    "Oh, okay!"

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly grasped the wheelchair handle and started pushing him inside.

    The Fu household appeared deste; Fu Yixing had gone to work, and the old patriarch hadn¡¯t yet returned after leaving earlier.

    Fu Yihan went directly to the study.

    Su Qingnuan stepped out of the study, clutching a book to read in her bedroom for a while.

    Tomorrow marked the finals, and Su Qingnuan needed to prepare well.

    Perhaps due to the alcohol she¡¯d consumed earlier at the Su residence, after reading for a short while, Su Qingnuan began to feel drowsy.

    Leaning forward onto the desk, she unknowingly closed her eyes.

    Even as her eyes shut, Su Qingnuan resolved to nap for just thirty minutes before picking up again.

    However, what was meant to be a short nap stretched into the dead of night.

    By the time she opened her eyes again, the sky outside had turned pitch ck.

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her eyes and sat up, feeling sore all over and parched.

    She pushed open the door, greeted by the dark hall beyond.

    Tiptoeing toward the small fridge, Su Qingnuan discovered it was out of water.

    Her only option was to go downstairs for some.

    With a helpless sigh, Su Qingnuan turned toward the staircase.

    Her movements down the hallway were careful and cautious, making her progress slower.

    As she passed the study, light from inside spilled out.

    Sote, yet Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t gone to bed?

    Su Qingnuan curiously peeked in and, sure enough, spotted Fu Yihan still seated there.

    Frowning lightly, Su Qingnuan chose to ignore it and continued directly downstairs.

    Retrieving water from the fridge, she stared at the bottle in her hand for a moment before grabbing an extra one.

    Quietly making her way back upstairs, Su Qingnuan nced at the study¡¯s lit entrance and slowly approached.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan called softly from the doorway.

    Shuffling sounds came from inside, followed by Fu Yihan¡¯s voice.

    "Come in."

    Su Qingnuan pushed open the door and stepped inside.

    "Still not resting at this hour?" Fu Yihan frowned, "Don¡¯t you have apetition tomorrow?"

    How does he know about thepetition?

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, cing the extra bottle of water on the desk: "I went downstairs for water; the mini fridge was empty. Seeing that you hadn¡¯t rested, I brought you a bottle along the way."

    Fu Yihan paused for a moment, then lifted his gaze to look at the water on the desk.

    "For me?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, smiling slightly: "I specifically picked one that¡¯s not chilled."

    Fu Yihan cast a meaningful nce at Su Qingnuan, then lowered his head.

    "Open it."

    "Huh?"

    With a faint trace of amusement in his tone, Fu Yihan repeated, "I told you to open it for me. How else can I drink it?"

 Chapter 88: Accident During the Match

    <h4>Chapter 88: Chapter 88: ident During the Match</h4><h4></h4>

    His hands are clearly free right now, not upied at all! Why does he need her to open it?

    Internally grumbling, Su Qingnuan still picked up the bottle and twisted the cap open with effort.

    "Here." Su Qingnuan handed the bottle over.

    Fu Yihan took it from her hand and took a small sip.

    "Put it over there." Fu Yihan added, "Go back and rest."

    "....."

    Faced with this unfeeling man, Su Qingnuan really didn¡¯t know what else she could say.

    After putting down the bottle, Su Qingnuan turned away and left, muttering to herself.

    Back in her room, her gaze shifted between the bed and the desk, and in the end, Su Qingnuan chose the bed.

    No matter what, resting well first is the key to being in peak condition for thepetition.

    With that thought, Su Qingnuany down without a trace of guilt.

    A night of sweet dreamster, feeling refreshed and energized, Su Qingnuan got up early to head to the school for roll call.

    This time, the school had organized a trip for everyone to attend the finals together, so they had to gather there in advance.

    After tidying herself up and heading downstairs, Su Qingnuan found Ah Qi was already waiting in the living room.

    "Up so early?" Su Qingnuan smiled lightly, "I thought you¡¯d sleep in a bit today."

    Ah Qi nced at his watch, his expression unchanging, and said, "Yesterday the Eldest Young Master reminded me that you¡¯d be going to yourpetition today, so I woke up early."

    Fu Yihan reminded him?

    Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile. "That man... sometimes he acts like he doesn¡¯t care about anything, but that¡¯s not entirely true."

    "Madam, since we also need to go to the school first, we don¡¯t have much time left."

    "Alright, let¡¯s go."

    Thanks to Ah Qi¡¯s steady driving skills, the two arrived at the school on time.

    From a distance, Su Qingnuan spotted Gu Xiaoxiao waving her arms enthusiastically.

    "What are you doing here?" Su Qingnuan grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao. "Don¡¯t you have sses today?"

    "Your finals, of course I have toe and watch!" Gu Xiaoxiao held onto Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand, grinning brightly. "Don¡¯t worry, with me cheering for you today, you¡¯re bound to do well!"

    "...Alright then."

    Though Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t entirely believe in such things, having Gu Xiaoxiao around wasforting.

    The two followed the main group onto the bus.

    The bus would directly take them to thepetition venue.

    "It¡¯s my first time riding the school bus for a group event!" Gu Xiaoxiao eximed excitedly.

    Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly. "If only you could participate in thepetition."

    "What are you talking about?" Gu Xiaoxiao nudged her and whispered, "That Kong something, she¡¯s petty. Don¡¯t say stuff like thatter."

    ".....Got it."

    But inside the bus, everyone waited for quite a while without it moving.

    As time ticked away, Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t hold back anymore and stood up.

    "What¡¯s going on? Why aren¡¯t we moving yet?"

    Her voice triggered a ripple effect¡ªothers started chiming in too.

    "Wait a moment! Someone hasn¡¯t arrived yet; we¡¯re waiting for them."

    "Who is it? Acting all important!" Gu Xiaoxiao raised her voice, asking loudly.

    "Kong Rong!"

    "...."

    Watching Gu Xiaoxiao sit back down, Su Qingnuan chuckled. "Why not keep shouting?"

    "Shout about what?" Gu Xiaoxiao pouted reluctantly, frowning. "This Kong Rong has a reputation for being unreasonable¡ªif the bus leaves without her, who knows what drama she¡¯ll stir up afterward!"

    To think there¡¯d be someone in the school even Gu Xiaoxiao wouldn¡¯t dare provoke¡ªSu Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile and nce at the time.

    "Forget it, there¡¯s still half an hour; no need to rush."

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t naturally impatient, but the bus dy dragged on excessively.

    Finally, at thetest tolerable moment, the bus started to roll forward.

    "Why didn¡¯t I see her get on?" Gu Xiaoxiao stood up in confusion, looking around.

    Not seeing any sign of Kong Rong, Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "What¡¯s going on? She didn¡¯te?"

    "She dide!" A ssmate to the side rolled their eyes and pointed out the window. "She has her own sports car¡ªwhy would she need to ride the bus with us?"

    Following the student¡¯s direction, they saw a sports car speedily overtake the bus, a familiar face briefly shing by.

    Gu Xiaoxiao rubbed her forehead and sat down, muttering, "Don¡¯t be upset; no need to waste energy on such people."

    Seeing her frustrated look, practically one step away from wearing "I¡¯m angry" written across her forehead, Su Qingnuan pressed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulder and reassured her with augh. "Come on now, don¡¯t think about all that. Just quietly sit tight¡ªas long as we get there, it¡¯ll be fine."

    "Alright."

    To save time, the bus driver pushed the vehicle close to its limits.

    Even someone like Su Qingnuan, who wasn¡¯t usually prone to motion sickness, was feeling dizzy and disoriented from being tossed around.

    Finally stepping off the bus together, the two staggered slightly, supporting each other.

    "Are you okay? Feeling alright?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked with worry.

    "I¡¯m alright," Su Qingnuan responded, clutching her chest and sighing, "If it went on any longer, though, I probably wouldn¡¯t have been."

    "Same here."

    Sharing a wry smile, Su Qingnuan took the bag from Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hands and slung it over her back.

    Looking at the nearby building, Su Qingnuan grinned. "I¡¯m heading in. Wait here for my good news."

    "Okay." Gu Xiaoxiao shed her a gentle smile. "Be sure to triumph."

    "Of course."

    With her bag hugged tightly against herself, Su Qingnuan walked briskly into the finals venue.

    To ensure fairness, the hands-on portion of thepetition depended on real-time performance.

    The examiners on site would provide problems, and the contestants needed to design new solutions that fit thepetition¡¯s criteria while perfectly addressing the challenges set by the examiners.

    There were a total of sixteen contestants, each assigned to one of sixteenpetition rooms.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s room happened to be right next to Kong Rong¡¯s.

    Upon entering, Su Qingnuan noticed that Kong Rong¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat.

    The weather was neither cold nor hot, and Su Qingnuan herself was wearing a jacket, yet Kong Rong was sweating?

    Noticing Su Qingnuan looking at her, Kong Rong frowned slightly and shot her a re.

    "What are you staring at?"

    Oh, so now looking is forbidden?

    Amused, Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze, no longer paying attention to her.

    Once she entered her assignedpetition room,plete silence surrounded Su Qingnuan.

    Inside the room were just Su Qingnuan and a singleputer.

    Eyeing the contents on the screen, Su Qingnuan sat down.

    Not long after she settled into her chair, the screen turned blue, disying a line of text:

    "You¡¯ve been hit by a hacker attack."

    So this is thepetition¡¯s problem?

    Being hacked, naturally, means setting up a corresponding firewall, then...

    These steps were tasks Su Qingnuan had practiced countless times, so she wasn¡¯t unfamiliar with them.

    For every action she took, she carefully inspected the details, ensuring she didn¡¯t make any careless mistakes.

    Arriving at the final step, Su Qingnuan performed onest round of checks before initiating her solution.

    Once everything ran smoothly, Su Qingnuan exhaled a quiet sigh of relief.

    With theputer back to its normal desktop screen, Su Qingnuan stood up and stretchedzily.

    Though the results remained uncertain, based on the current problem, she felt she had sessfully solved it.

    Without further instructions, Su Qingnuan got up and strolled along the walls of the room.

    "Hmm... yes, that¡¯s it..."

    Muffled voices drifted faintly from behind the walls.

 Chapter 89 Cheating

    <h4>Chapter 89: Chapter 89 Cheating</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan paused, slightly startled, and stopped in her tracks, tilting her head to look.

    The white, spotless wall showed no trace of dirt.

    Su Qingnuan frowned and pressed her ear against the wall.

    "How should I do this? I¡¯ve been doing exactly what you told me...."

    Although the voice was faint and unclear, Su Qingnuan could mostly discern what was going on behind the wall.

    Her frown deepened as she walked to the door and knocked.

    The door opened from the outside.

    A man dressed in a ck security uniform stood at the door, his face devoid of emotion as he looked at her.

    "Do you need something?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan pointed at the neighboring room. "I heard someone talking next door. Could you go check it out?"

    The man nodded. "Understood. Anything else?"

    "That¡¯s all."

    The door closed again.

    Su Qingnuan sat down on the chair, her gaze fixated on the wall to her right.

    After a long while, she stood up and leaned against the wall.

    The voices continued.

    It made sense. To tantly do something like this in such a setting, they must have some kind of connections.

    But this would make the oue seem utterly unfair.

    Out of sixteen contestants, only six would advance to the final round.

    Resting her head on the desk, Su Qingnuan massaged her temples, thoughts churning nonstop.

    After some time, a knock on the door broke her reverie, reminding her it was time for thepetition.

    Su Qingnuan quickly got up and headed to the door.

    The door opened, and she stood at the entrance, ncing to her right.

    Not long after, someone stepped out.

    Kong Rong emerged from the room with her chin lifted high, an air of arrogance about her.

    Noticing Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze, Kong Rong frowned slightly. "Why are you staring at me like that? You were looking at me the same way when I went in earlier."

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Just thought you looked rather pretty."

    "I¡¯m pretty?" Kong Rong flicked her hair with a faint smile. "Well, you¡¯re not wrong. I am quite pretty."

    Seeing her narcissistic demeanor, Su Qingnuan said nothing, her expression nk as she walked away.

    Su Qingnuan walked forward, seemingly lost in thought. She passed thepetition venue, not even noticing Gu Xiaoxiao waving at her.

    "Qingnuan?" Gu Xiaoxiao caught up and grabbed her shoulder, sighing helplessly. "What¡¯s on your mind? I¡¯ve been calling you for ages!"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan snapped out of her thoughts and looked at Gu Xiaoxiao in confusion. "When did you start calling me?"

    "When?" Gu Xiaoxiao panted, puffing her cheeks indignantly. "I¡¯ve been chasing you from the entrance all the way here. How long do you think I¡¯ve been calling you?"

    Looking back, they were about a hundred meters away from the entrance.

    Su Qingnuan scratched her head awkwardly and smiled. "Sorry, I was thinking about something and didn¡¯t notice."

    "It¡¯s fine. How could I take offense at that?" Gu Xiaoxiao replied seriously, gripping her shoulder and speaking in a low voice. "Did you not perform well this time? You look so serious."

    "...Do I really look that serious?" Su Qingnuan touched her face, sighing. "I don¡¯t think so. I think I did okay."

    "If everything¡¯s fine, then what¡¯s with that expression?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, puzzled. "Did something else happen?"

    ...

    Faced with Su Qingnuan¡¯s sudden silence, Gu Xiaoxiao nodded knowingly. "I see¡ªsomething you can¡¯t talk about."

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly nodded. "Yes, something I can¡¯t talk about."

    "If it¡¯s something you can¡¯t say, then don¡¯t say it."

    Gu Xiaoxiao linked arms with Su Qingnuan and smiled. "Come on, let¡¯s get lunch first. We¡¯ll check the results in the afternoon!"

    "Let¡¯s go!"

    After eating their fill outside, the two returned to check the results.

    Though the results were supposed to be announced at 3 p.m., they waited until 4 p.m. to find out.

    Su Qingnuan predictably took first ce, her name disyed at the top of the list.

    The other two students from her school barely made it; one ced sixth, and the other didn¡¯t qualify for the finals.

    "Great! Still first ce!" Gu Xiaoxiao eximed, gripping Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand in excitement.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t respond. Her gaze was fixed on the name listed in sixth ce.

    The name "Kong Rong" seemed magnified in Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes.

    The scenes from thepetition yed vividly in her mind.

    Kong Rong¡¯s advancement to the top six must have cost someone their rightful spot.

    "Hey! Did you see? Kong Rong made it in!"

    "Really!"

    "She¡¯s incredible! I didn¡¯t think she was telling the truth!"

    "True! When I heard she bet someone she¡¯d make it into the top six, I doubted her. But it turns out she did!"

    "Exactly!"

    "She made a bet with someone?"

    The speaker froze, noticing the annoyed person in front of them. "Who are you?"

    "You just said Kong Rong bet someone she¡¯d make it into the top six?"

    "Yeah." The speaker nodded,ughing. "Don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t know? It¡¯s even posted on her school¡¯s forum."

    Su Qingnuan quickly pulled out her phone and opened the forum.

    Indeed, the top pinned post confirmed it.

    Su Qingnuan sneered.

    "Qingnuan?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked worriedly. "What¡¯s wrong? Why are you so worked up?"

    Su Qingnuan gripped Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand and looked up solemnly. "Xiaoxiao, I need to go back to school."

    "Huh?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, confused. "Why go back to school? The school gave you the day off today; you don¡¯t need to go."

    "There¡¯s something I have to resolve today!" Su Qingnuan said through gritted teeth, grabbing her bag and heading to the roadside.

    Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao quickly followed.

    On the ride back, Su Qingnuan recounted what she had seen during thepetition to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    "So tant?" Gu Xiaoxiao eximed in shock. "Then the championship can¡¯t go to her, right?"

    "I don¡¯t know." Su Qingnuan shook her head slightly. "What concerns me more is that her spot in the top six means someone else lost their rightful ce. It¡¯s unfair."

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s righteous indignation, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly.

    "Thispetition is just a talent selection organized by capitalists. The school administration probably can¡¯t do much."

    "Whether or not they can, this issue must be addressed."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s determined expression left Gu Xiaoxiao momentarily speechless, staring in awe.

    "I¡¯ll go with you," Gu Xiaoxiao said with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, tightening her grip on Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand.

    Upon returning to school, Su Qingnuan headed straight to the director¡¯s office.

    She waited outside for a long time, as the director was busy meeting with someone inside.

    Growing impatient, Su Qingnuan barged in directly.

    "Director! I have something to say!"

    The director froze briefly, frowning at the interruption.

    "What¡¯s the matter? Can¡¯t you see I¡¯m busy right now?"

    Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly. "Please just hear me out before continuing with your work!"

    "Leave first!" the director snapped angrily.

    "Director!" Su Qingnuan pressed anxiously.

    The director shot her a cold nce. "Out!"

    ...

    Su Qingnuan slowly stepped back outside.

    "How did it go?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered as she approached. "Did you tell him? What did the director say?"

    "I haven¡¯t told him yet." Su Qingnuan sighed. "He¡¯s discussing something with someone right now."

    ...

 Chapter 90: Trouble Brewing

    <h4>Chapter 90: Chapter 90: Trouble Brewing</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan waited outside for a long time before those people came out.

    Seeing that the office was now empty, Su Qingnuan quickly knocked on the door.

    "Come in."

    Su Qingnuan pushed the door open and walked in.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan, the director rubbed his forehead. "Why are you here again?"

    "Director..." Su Qingnuan said with a bitter smile, "Earlier, I hadn¡¯t finished speaking, and you kicked me out."

    Putting down the pen in his hand, the director frowned and looked at her. "Alright, go ahead. What do you want to say?"

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly recounted what she had witnessed at thepetition venue.

    The director, whose brows were already furrowed, listened and frowned even more deeply, as if his expression could crush a fly.

    "Are you sure what you heard is true?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded and solemnly pressed against her chest. "I guarantee with my character, not a single word of mine is false."

    "Alright, got it." The director waved his hand. "You go back and rest for now. There¡¯s still apetition tomorrow. I¡¯ll discuss this matter with the higher-ups."

    "Alright."

    Walking out of the office, Su Qingnuan suddenly let out a sigh of relief, feeling much more at ease.

    "How did it go?" Gu Xiaoxiao ran over and whispered, "Did you tell them?"

    "I did!" Su Qingnuan said with a smile and nodded. "The director said he would follow up on this matter."

    "That¡¯s good."

    Gu Xiaoxiao linked her arm through Su Qingnuan¡¯s, happily walking outside.

    "This is what I expect from the Su Qingnuan I know¡ªfull of a sense of justice!"

    Su Qingnuan chuckled bitterly. "I just felt that what happened wasn¡¯t fair to the other students, so I told the director."

    "It wasn¡¯t fair at all!" Gu Xiaoxiao said angrily, "Kong Rong is just relying on her family¡¯s power to do such things. If it were us, we¡¯d have been scared to death."

    It was true.

    Ever since she was young, Su Qingnuan had always been diligent and earnest in her studies, never considering any crooked or improper means.

    Asking her to cheat was as hard as climbing to the heavens.

    "Never mind, don¡¯t think about it anymore." Gu Xiaoxiao ced her arm around Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulders. "You have apetition tomorrow. Rest early. Come on, I¡¯ll walk you home."

    "No need." Su Qingnuan said with an unwavering smile. "I can go back by myself. It¡¯s not like I¡¯m sick¡ªwhy bother walking me home?"

    "You really don¡¯t need me to send you back?" Gu Xiaoxiao clutched her chest with a devastated expression, "I¡¯m so heartbroken."

    "....." Su Qingnuan pushed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand away helplessly and said, "Alright, enough. Go home and rest. Tomorrow, I have no doubt you¡¯ll be tagging along with me again, won¡¯t you?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao snapped her fingers and grinned excitedly. "Smart girl!"

    "To have better energy tomorrow to cheer for me, you should head back now."

    "Fine, because you said that, I¡¯ll go back early."

    The two parted ways below the teaching building. Just as Su Qingnuan was about to hail a cab, she caught sight of a car parked at the entrance.

    "Aqi?" Su Qingnuan looked toward the driver¡¯s seat in confusion. "Why did youe here?"

    She didn¡¯t recall telling anyone when she would finish.

    "I calcted the time toe and wait for you."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan, touched yet slightly guilty, said, "Sorry for making youe out of your way." ncing back, she smiled. "Would you like something to drink?"

    "No need, Young Madam. Please get in the car first."

    "Are you sure you don¡¯t want anything?" Su Qingnuan asked warmly with a smile. "Let me buy you a cup of milk tea. It¡¯s right over there; it won¡¯t take long."

    Su Qingnuan jogged to the milk tea shop, bought a cup for Aqi, and ran back excitedly.

    Aqi nced at the milk tea in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hands, his expression stiffening slightly.

    Without hesitation, Su Qingnuan ced the milk tea into Aqi¡¯s arms and said with a cheerful grin, "Don¡¯t be polite with me¡ªdrink this!"

    Faced with the milk tea in his arms, Aqi was momentarily unable to react.

    Ignoring Aqi¡¯s expression, Su Qingnuan climbed into the car without further ado.

    "Let¡¯s go."

    "Alright."

    Upon returning to the Fu household, Su Qingnuan noticed the lit-up house and carefully stepped inside.

    "Did you not hear what I said? Why are you still doing that kind of thing?"

    Su Qingnuan froze in her tracks.

    "I told you long ago that this wouldn¡¯t do, but you insisted on not believing me and went ahead with it! What good is any of this now?"

    "..."

    The old man¡¯s scolding echoed throughout the house.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly retreated outside to wait.

    After a while, a car stopped at the entrance.

    Looking up, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly at the person who stepped out of the vehicle.

    "Why are you standing at the door?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan nced inside and replied helplessly, "Grandfather is scolding someone."

    "Is he scolding you?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "No, it looks like he¡¯s scolding Fu Yixing."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan nced inside and frowned. "Go over there."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan blinked in confusion. "Huh? What for?"

    "...Stand up and follow me in."

    Su Qingnuan quickly stood up and ushered Fu Yihan inside.

    "What¡¯s with that expression? Who are you trying to show it to?"

    Another angry shout rang out as Su Qingnuan lowered her head, pretending not to notice, and continued walking further in.

    "Still not listening? You say you...."

    Suddenly, the old man¡¯s words stopped as he looked at the two people at the door.

    "Yihan, when did you get back?" The old man asked with a smile.

    The abrupt change in tone was truly worthy of being called a master of "changing faces."

    Su Qingnuan immediately responded with a bright smile, "Grandfather, we just got back."

    "...So what¡¯s your current n? Heading upstairs?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan nodded.

    "Alright, then go on up."

    Seeing that the old man didn¡¯t stop them, Su Qingnuan quickly ushered Fu Yihan toward the elevator.

    The elevator door opened, and the two stepped into it.

    Fu Yihan nced down at Su Qingnuan¡¯s trembling hands that were pushing him forward and furrowed his brows.

    "What are you so scared of?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan frowned slightly. "I don¡¯t know... It¡¯s just that..."

    Though she didn¡¯t finish her sentence, Fu Yihan understood what she meant.

    "I got it. No need to say more."

    "...Alright."

    Looking at the door that was slowly opening in the distance, Su Qingnuan sighed softly. "Mr. Fu, I¡¯d like to borrow the study tonight, is that alright?"

    "To practice?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded sheepishly. "Yes, there¡¯s apetition tomorrow, but I..."

    She hesitated and struggled to exin.

    "What¡¯s the matter? Hard to say?"

    Scratching her head, Su Qingnuan muttered in a low voice, "Not really, it¡¯s just..."

    Seeing her troubled expression, Fu Yihan frowned deeply. "If you have something to say, just say it directly. Acting like this will make people think I bullied you."

    "No, no!" Su Qingnuan hastily replied. "Definitely not!"

    "....." Fu Yihan turned away, speaking sternly, "The study is upied now. Do whatever you need to quickly, and stop bothering me."

    "...Alright."

    Despite being scolded, Su Qingnuan had managed to borrow the study. She didn¡¯t say anything further.

    Heading into the study with herptop, Su Qingnuan pulled out her previous creative work and re-made it from scratch. After thoroughly testing and verifying everything to ensure there were no mistakes, she finally concluded her work.

 Chapter 91 What I Want

    <h4>Chapter 91: Chapter 91 What I Want</h4><h4></h4>

    On the first day of the month, it was still Ah Qi who sent Su Qingnuan out the door.

    But this time, they didn¡¯t go to school directly; they headed straight to thepetition venue.

    Before leaving, Gu Xiaoxiao called, seemingly to say they had to wait for Kong Rong again, so she told Su Qingnuan to go ahead to the venue without wasting time at school.

    Ah Qi dropped Su Qingnuan off at the entrance to thepetition venue.

    "Young Madam, I¡¯ll pick up the Eldest Young Master first, thene back to get you."

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan waved her hand hurriedly, speaking seriously: "If Mr. Fu needs the car, don¡¯t worry about me. I actually don¡¯t need it that much."

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t respond, just rolled up the window and drove away.

    Even though she had already said her piece, Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t sure if Ah Qi woulde back in the end.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan suddenly furrowed her brows.

    She had troubled Ah Qi so much recently¡ªshe must find a chance to properly thank her.

    "Qingnuan!"

    Su Qingnuan turned around to see Gu Xiaoxiao running toward her, wildly waving her arms.

    "Xiaoxiao." Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "Why are you here so early? I thought you¡¯d being on the school bus."

    "Nope." Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed Su Qingnuan, speaking mysteriously: "I heard from a ssmate that something might have happened to Kong Rong. She can¡¯t make it to thepetition today."

    "Really?" Su Qingnuan asked in surprise, "Something happened to her?"

    "Yes! I¡¯d bet it¡¯s because of what you said to the director¡ªthat must be why she didn¡¯t show up."

    "It seems so." Su Qingnuan, pinching her fingers, said excitedly, "I wonder if another student will step in topete in her ce."

    "Probably not." Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s voice grew quieter. "The school wants to withdraw from thispetition under some other pretext to avoid affecting its reputation."

    "... I see..."

    Though she understood their reasoning, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit sorry for the recement student.

    She sighed silently and said softly, "I¡¯ll head inside first¡ªthepetition¡¯s about to start."

    "Okay! I¡¯ll wait for you outside. Good luck!"

    Familiar with the venue, Su Qingnuan walked straight in.

    "Su Qingnuan!"

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment and turned her head.

    Kong Rong was standing in the lobby, smiling as she waved at her.

    "Kong Rong?" Su Qingnuan frowned, looking at her suspiciously but not moving.

    Kong Rong jogged over and stood in front of her. "You still recognize me, don¡¯t you?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded. "Of course, I do!"

    "Good." Kong Rong linked her arm with Su Qingnuan¡¯s and said softly, "I have a favor to ask."

    "What is it?" Su Qingnuan frowned. "I¡¯m about to start thepetition. Can it wait until after it¡¯s over?"

    Kong Rong raised an eyebrow, smiling faintly. "If we wait until thepetition ends, it will be toote."

    With that, Kong Rong suddenly reached out and pressed something against Shen Zhiliu¡¯s nose.

    A strange fragrance wafted through the air as Su Qingnuan struggled desperately.

    The next moment, consciousness faded.

    ...

    "Drip¡ªDrip¡ª"

    The sound of water droplets. Where is this?

    Su Qingnuan frowned, lifting her heavy eyelids.

    In this cramped space, Shen Zhiliu could only curl up her legs. She was lying on her back, unable to exert any strength, her head tilted against the wall at an unsettling angle.

    The surroundings were dark¡ªdisconcertingly dim.

    "Is anyone there?" Su Qingnuan called out.

    There wasplete silence outside. No signs of movement, only the sound of water dripping.

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows, her voice louder this time: "Is anyone there?"

    "Is there anyone outside?"

    No response.

    Herpetition...

    Tears welled up in her eyes as she rested her head on her shoulder, wiping away the wet corners of her eyes. She continued to call out: "Is anyone outside? Can you help me get out of here?"

    The cramped space, the oppressive atmosphere¡ªit all felt so utterly hopeless.

    Just like the emptiness in her chest at this moment.

    ...

    "What time is it?" Fu Yihan asked suddenly.

    Ah Qi lowered his gaze, ncing at his phone, then frowned slightly. "It¡¯s already three o¡¯clock."

    "It should be over by now," Fu Yihan said absentmindedly, looking out the window. "Go check it out."

    "Understood."

    Ah Qi got out of the car and returned shortly after, sweat streaming down his face, followed closely by a woman.

    "Eldest Young Master, the venue has already closed, and there¡¯s no sign of Young Madam."

    "Where is she?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "I don¡¯t know." Ah Qi frowned and nced at the woman behind him. "This is Young Madam¡¯s good friend. She¡¯s also been waiting upstairs. Young Madam went in and didn¡¯te out again."

    Didn¡¯te out?

    Fu Yihan gazed at the towering building in the distance, the corner of his mouth twitching.

    "Call over there."

    "Yes, sir."

    The once-quietpetition venue suddenly came alive again after a while.

    A group stood waiting outside. When they saw Fu Yihan, they hurried over to him.

    "Mr. Fu, we didn¡¯t expect you toe personally. Why didn¡¯t you let us know in advance?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold gaze swept over the group. He frowned and asked, "Did all thepetition participants show up today?"

    The man hesitated briefly, then turned to nce behind him.

    Immediately, someone stepped forward and whispered, "Mr. Fu, there were sixpetitors in total today. One withdrew, and another didn¡¯t show up at all."

    "Who didn¡¯t show up?"

    "One moment, I¡¯ll find out."

    The person walked off to the side, made a phone call, and soon returned.

    "Eldest Young Master, the missing participant is named Su Qingnuan."

    "....."

    "No way!" Gu Xiaoxiao said hurriedly. "I saw Qingnuan go in. She never came out until thepetition ended!"

    With a sidelong nce at the agitated Gu Xiaoxiao, Fu Yihan arched an eyebrow. "Did you hear that? She went in and didn¡¯te out."

    "This... But we really didn¡¯t see this participant..."

    Gu Xiaoxiao was adamant that Su Qingnuan had entered, while thepetition organizers insisted she was nowhere to be found.

    The two sides were at an impasse.

    Fu Yihan raised his gaze to the surveince cameras hanging above the hall.

    "The cameras¡ªhave they been checked?"

    Everyone paused.

    "Mr. Fu, those surveince cameras... it might be tricky to..."

    "Have they been checked?" Fu Yihan asked again, his voice icy.

    "Didn¡¯t you hear him? Go check them!"

    "Yes, sir!"

    A group of people scurried into the lobby and then disappeared into the back.

    Fu Yihan and the others waited in the lobby.

    After a long while, someone came running out, looking uneasy. "Director, I think we found something."

    "Where?" Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t contain herself and followed immediately, pressing for answers.

    The person gave Fu Yihan a nce and said softly, "She was knocked out and taken to the restroom, but after that, she vanished."

    At those words, everyone was stunned.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s brows knitted tightly as he turned to Ah Qi. "Let¡¯s go."

    Ah Qi quickly moved, guiding Fu Yihan toward the restroom.

    Arge group followed in their wake but hesitated at the entrance.

    It was a women¡¯s restroom¡ªonly Gu Xiaoxiao went inside.

    However, after searching thoroughly, Gu Xiaoxiao came out looking confused. "She¡¯s not here! Are you sure she went into the restroom?"

 Chapter 92 Save People

    <h4>Chapter 92: Chapter 92 Save People</h4><h4></h4>

    "Not inside?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head, frowning, "There¡¯s no one inside."

    "Strange, howe no one¡¯s inside?" The staff member looked puzzled, "Clearly saw someone being dragged in here."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t speak, his gaze shifted to A Qi.

    A Qi understood and walked in.

    While everyone was waiting for A Qi toe out, someone ran over.

    "Director! Something¡¯s wrong."

    "What?" The Director frowned, "Don¡¯t panic, can¡¯t you see we¡¯re looking for someone here?"

    "....."

    The person leaned in to the Director¡¯s ear and whispered a few words.

    The Director¡¯s face changed slightly, shocked, "Really?"

    "Yes."

    The Director, pale, looked at Fu Yihan and said in a low voice, "Mr. Fu, the lock on the pool door is broken, I¡¯ll go check it out first."

    "A broken lock needs the Director to check it out?" Fu Yihan asked with a faint smile.

    The Director was momentarily speechless.

    "What happened?" Fu Yihan asked.

    The person didn¡¯t dare to speak, keeping his head down.

    Fu Yihan looked impatiently at the Director.

    The Director quickly said, "It¡¯s just a little problem with the water pipes, I¡¯ll get someone to fix it right away, nothing serious."

    Fu Yihan frowned, staring intently at the Director.

    The Director didn¡¯t dare move, standing there silently.

    "Eldest Young Master." A Qi finally came out, his brows knitted, shaking his head, "There¡¯s no one inside."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan nodded, looking at the Director, "What¡¯s wrong with the swimming pool, take us to see."

    "...Mr. Fu, actually there¡¯s no need....."

    "Do I need to repeat myself?" Fu Yihan asked with a nk expression.

    The Director paused, helplessly said, "Alright, pleasee this way, Mr. Fu."

    The group redirected to the swimming pool.

    The main entrance of the swimming pool was open, several staff members standing at the door, pointing inside.

    "What¡¯s going on?" The Director approached, asking, "Why are you all standing here? Not working?"

    The crowd quickly backed away.

    From the entrance, nothing seemed unusual, except for the constant dripping water, which was a bit worrying.

    The ground already had a thinyer of water stains, and it was unclear where the water wasing from.

    "Have you found where the leak is?" the Director asked.

    The crowd shook their heads, and quickly dispersed to find the damaged area.

    Watching their hasty movements, Fu Yihan frowned even more.

    He had initially nned to rely on these people to find someone, but now it seemed they were all a bunch of freeloaders.

    "A Qi." Fu Yihan said softly, "Go in and look yourself."

    "Yes."

    A Qi went in.

    Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao also followed A Qi to look for the person.

    With the floor covered in water stains, Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair was uncontroble, unable to go further in.

    He sat at the entrance, his eyes watching inside the swimming pool.

    This misfortunate woman, even during apetition, encountered this kind of situation, truly unfortunate.

    Fu Yihan was silent for a while, then turned around, looking at the Director, "Take me to the surveince room."

    The Director quickly reached out to push Fu Yihan towards the surveince room.

    Therge surveince room was filled with monitors.

    Fu Yihan looked at a certain screen, and said in a deep voice, "Erge this screen."

    As the screen gradually erged, Su Qingnuan¡¯s face became clearer.

    She was talking to someone, and suddenly a hand reached out, covering her mouth and nose.

    The next moment, Su Qingnuan fainted.

    The person, back facing the surveince camera, dragged Su Qingnuan toward the restrooms.

    Indeed, it was towards the restrooms, no wonder they first thought of looking in the restroom.

    But the right side of the restrooms, Fu Yihan had looked just now, there was another passage leading elsewhere.

    "Tap¡ªtap¡ª"

    The sound of fingers tapping the table was particrly loud.

    The Director stood aside, nervously watching Fu Yihan, seeing his expression unchanged, bing more and more anxious.

    "Pull up the footage at the entrance of the swimming pool, around this timeline."

    Soon after, the footage changed.

    Today, the entire venue for thepetition was closed, so there was no one at the entrance of the swimming pool.

    After waiting for a few minutes without anyone appearing, just as Fu Yihan was about to order a switch of footage, a shadow suddenly appeared.

    Immediately after, several people carrying someone appeared on the surveince footage.

    The atmosphere in the surveince room suddenly solidified.

    The Director angrily said, "How do you all watch the monitors? Hurry up and help find the person!"

    "Yes!"

    The crowd ran out.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold gaze fell on the Director.

    The Director nervously smiled, "Rest assured, Mr. Fu! We¡¯ll definitely help you find the person!"

    Fu Yihan sneered, withdrew his sight, and wheeled himself out.

    Before reaching the swimming pool, he saw someone running from a distance.

    "Mr. Fu! We¡¯ve found her!"

    A slight stirring in his heart, Fu Yihan nced at the person behind him, "Speed up!"

    "Yes."

    They quickly reached the swimming pool, where a crowd was gathered, chattering about something.

    "Mr. Fu is here."

    Someone shouted, and the crowd automatically dispersed, making way for Fu Yihan.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was kneeling there, holding someone in her arms, tears in her eyes.

    "Eldest Young Master." A Qi walked over and said in a low voice, "An ambnce has been notified and is on its way."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan lowered his gaze, looking at the person¡¯s pale face, frowning, "Where was she found?"

    ".....In a locker in the changing room, locked inside."

    "....."

    How big could a locker room locker be?

    Even Fu Yihan had been to many top luxury locker rooms, they couldn¡¯t normally fit a person inside.

    His hand ced on the chair slightly clenched into a fist, Fu Yihan sneered, "Who dares to touch the Fu family."

    A Qi lowered his gaze, "I¡¯ve seen that person, she¡¯s the Eldest Young Mistress¡¯ ssmate."

    "ssmate?" Fu Yihan snorted coldly, "A student of bad conduct should be expelled."

    "Yes."

    A Qi turned, taking a phone to the edge of the crowd.

    Fu Yihan maneuvered his wheelchair to Su Qingnuan¡¯s side, looking at her pale face, frowning, "Don¡¯t shake her."

    Gu Xiaoxiao paused, stopping her actions.

    "The ambnce is about to arrive."

    The short statement carried a steady strength.

    Gu Xiaoxiao wiped away her tears, nodded, "Okay."

    Just as she spoke, noise came from outside.

    "I heard Miss Su was attacked as revenge, is she in here?"

    "Should be, right? I saw the door closed before, suddenly opened."

    "Let¡¯s go, quickly get the exclusive news!"

    Fu Yihan turned his head to look.

    The Director quickly said, "Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll handle it. They won¡¯t be allowed in!"

    With that, he jogged out.

    Fu Yihan frowned, looking at A Qi who had just finished his call.

    "Carry her, we¡¯ll leave through the back door."

    "Yes."

    Carrying Su Qingnuan, A Qi walked ahead, Gu Xiaoxiao pushing Fu Yihan, and the four of them left from the back.

    A Qi took the car from the front, and drove them to a nearby hospital.

 Chapter 93 Not to be Trampled Upon

    <h4>Chapter 93: Chapter 93 Not to be Trampled Upon</h4><h4></h4>

    "Drip¡ªdrip¡ª"

    The sound of water dripping echoed persistently near her ears.

    Su Qingnuan tried to lift her hand to cover her ears.

    But the moment she raised her hand, something blocked her.

    "Don¡¯t move!"

    A cold voice rang out, carrying an inexplicable sense of familiarity.

    Who is it?

    Su Qingnuan slowly opened her eyes, greeted by a sea of white, which left her momentarily dazed.

    Snapping back to reality, Su Qingnuan realized she wasn¡¯t in the cramped space she had been in. The dripping sound beside her ear was nothing but the sound of an IV.

    "You¡¯re awake?"

    Su Qingnuan turned her head to meet a pair of bewildered eyes.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan tried to sit up, only to realize her hands were pinned down by someone.

    Looking down at her hands, she asked in confusion, "Why am I here?"

    "Shouldn¡¯t you be asking yourself that question?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly. "To be bullied so badly at school¡ªwhat¡¯s the use of you?"

    "...I... what happened to me?"

    Fu Yihan let out a coldugh and said nothing.

    "Qingnuan! You¡¯re awake!"

    A lively figure darted into the room and threw herself onto Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan let out a muffled grunt and pushed Gu Xiaoxiao away helplessly. "You¡¯re pressing on my hand."

    "...I¡¯m sorry!" Gu Xiaoxiao quickly stood up, her face full of apology as she looked at Su Qingnuan. "I didn¡¯t mean to¡ªI was just... I was just too excited! You don¡¯t know how weak you were when we found you. I almost thought..."

    As she spoke, Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes turned red.

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her forehead and said softly, "What exactly happened? I don¡¯t really remember... I only recall being locked in a small, dark ce."

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s brows gradually furrow, Gu Xiaoxiao quickly said, "Oh my, if you can¡¯t remember, then don¡¯t think about it. Let¡¯s not dwell on unhappy things!"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, her brows still slightly knitted.

    "I made some porridge¡ªwant to have some?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, then turned to Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu, thank you for everything."

    Fu Yihan said nothing and turned toward the doorway. "Where¡¯s Ah Qi?"

    "Ah Qi is downstairs, handling the admission process," Gu Xiaoxiao answered softly.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly. "Do I really have to stay in the hospital?"

    "For observation," Gu Xiaoxiao said sternly, pressing her hand. "To avoid any lingering psychological trauma."

    "Psychological trauma?" Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "It¡¯s not as severe as that. Actually, I..."

    "Bang¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan suddenly turned her head and saw Fu Yihan wheeling himself out of the room.

    "What¡¯s that about?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "No idea."

    "...Is that Fu Yihan? Why do you call him Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    "..." Su Qingnuan lowered her head and murmured, "Just... felt like calling him Mr. Fu."

    "...Why do you sound so aggrieved?" Gu Xiaoxiao said with an amusedugh. "But I must say, this Fu Yihan is really handsome. Though, why... why is he in a wheelchair?"

    "Shh!" Su Qingnuan quickly covered Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s mouth, her voice low. "Don¡¯t say that in front of him."

    "...I know!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao swatted Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand away and chuckled. "Do you think I¡¯m the kind of person who can¡¯t keep my mouth shut?"

    "I know you¡¯re not¡ªI was just reminding you," Su Qingnuan replied in a still-soft voice. "Seriously, remember¡ªdon¡¯t ever bring it up in front of him."

    "Got it."

    Su Qingnuan withdrew her hand and fell silent.

    ncing at the doorway, she didn¡¯t see Fu Yihan and added, "Can you go check on him for me?"

    "Check what?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked in confusion. "He¡¯s a grown man¡ªdo you really need me to oversee him?"

    "...No, it¡¯s just that he..."

    After thinking for a while, Su Qingnuan realized she couldn¡¯t articte her concern. She turned her gaze back inward.

    Later that day, Fu Yihan returned.

    This time, he was apanied by Ah Qi, who held some documents and ced them beside the bed.

    "Young Madam, I¡¯ve arranged for your hospital stay. You¡¯ll stay here tonight, and I¡¯lle to pick you up tomorrow."

    "...Alright."

    Ah Qi and Fu Yihan left the room.

    As they departed, Fu Yihan said nothing, but his gaze carried a chill.

    From the icy look in his eyes, Su Qingnuan knew this matter would not be so simple.

    "I¡¯ll keep youpany tonight," Gu Xiaoxiao said, patting Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder warmly. "Don¡¯t be scared."

    Su Qingnuan paused, then replied with augh, "Scared of what? I¡¯m not scared."

    Despite her words, by nightfall, while lying alone in bed, Su Qingnuan found herself unable to sleep.

    From across the room came the steady, sweet sound of Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s breathing.

    She had promised to keep herpany, but she fell asleep herself first.

    Shaking her head helplessly, Su Qingnuan turned to gaze out the window.

    The pitch-ck sky revealed no scenery¡ªnot even the usually visible full moon.

    If she weren¡¯t in the hospital, what would she be doing right now?

    After racking her brain, Su Qingnuan realized there was nothing she particrly wanted to do.

    If there werepetitions ongoing, she would definitely be preparing. But now that the contests were over, and she hadn¡¯t even made it to the final round, those thoughts were useless.

    At this recollection, Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows.

    Why would Kong Rong treat her this way?

    Was it because of what happened before, or...

    Did someone uncover the issue she reported, leading to this oue?

    That reasoning seemed the only usible exnation.

    This realization kept her awake even longer.

    Why is it that someone like her could deceive everyone and take possession of things that aren¡¯t hers?

    The more she thought about it, the more furious she became, until she sat up in bed outright.

    The whole night passed in sleepless contemtion, Su Qingnuan repeatedly pondering how to confront that person and demand justice.

    But early the next morning, someone came to her room.

    Seeing Kong Rong, Gu Xiaoxiao immediately moved to block the door.

    "Hey, hey, hey?" Kong Rong pushed against the door with a wicked smile. "What¡¯s this? We¡¯re just here to visit our school beauty¡ªwhy aren¡¯t you letting us in?"

    "Not letting you in?" Gu Xiaoxiao scoffed. "If I¡¯m not shooing you out with a broom, I¡¯m already being merciful. Get lost¡ªdon¡¯t loiter here."

    "Get lost?" Sun Rong sneered, exerting force and pushing the door wide open. "Talk like that isn¡¯t your ce."

    "Xiaoxiao!" Su Qingnuan quickly called out. "Come here¡ªdon¡¯t stand over there."

    ncing back at her, Gu Xiaoxiao walked over.

    With her arms crossed, Kong Rong gazed at the pale-faced Su Qingnuan sitting on the bed, herplexion clearly unwell.

    "Our school beauty, what¡¯s wrong with you?" Kong Rong said with a sly smile. "You don¡¯t look too good."

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly. "Why are you here? To gloat? Or mock me?"

    Raising an eyebrow, Kong Rong said, "Neither¡ªI came to discuss something with you."

    She gestured, and someone immediately entered to bring over a chair. Kong Rong took a seat directly across from Su Qingnuan¡¯s bed.

    "Do you know why things turned out this way?" Kong Rong asked.

 Chapter 94 Threat

    <h4>Chapter 94: Chapter 94 Threat</h4><h4></h4>

    Here¡¯s the trantion of the provided text:

    Su Qingnuan curled her lips into a faint smile and said, "I don¡¯t know. Please, exin it to me."

    "Exin?" Kong Rong sneered. "I thought the big campus beauty with her top grades would have a sharp mind. But now, it seems that¡¯s not entirely the case."

    Gu Xiaoxiao frowned and was about to speak, but the person next to her stopped her.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head slightly, her smile unwavering.

    "If you have something to say, speak inly. My brain is too dull to catch your meaning."

    "Oh? Admitting you¡¯re stupid now, huh? Then I¡¯ll tell you directly." A flicker of hatred appeared in Kong Rong¡¯s cold eyes. "Was it you who went to the director to report me?"

    "It was."

    Without the slightest hesitation, Su Qingnuan nodded affirmatively.

    "Qingnuan!" Gu Xiaoxiao tugged at her sleeve anxiously. "What are you doing?"

    "It¡¯s fine." Su Qingnuan patted Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand and smiled faintly. "In broad daylight, and in a hospital no less, I don¡¯t believe Miss Kong would dare to do anything too extreme."

    With reddened eyes, Kong Rong stared at Su Qingnuan. "I underestimated your guts."

    "Of course, reporting me to the director takes a certain kind of nerve."

    She stood up and pointed at Su Qingnuan. "If not for you, I should be standing on the award podium right now, fulfilling my wager."

    "That spot wasn¡¯t yours to begin with." Su Qingnuan sneered. "A victory gained through someone else¡¯s connections¡ªwhat¡¯s there to be proud of?"

    "Connections?" Kong Rongughed mockingly. "Su Qingnuan, for all you¡¯re ady from a wealthy family, haven¡¯t you ever enjoyed the benefits your family¡¯s status brings?"

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly, saying nothing.

    "Oh, I remember now. It seems your family doesn¡¯t like you much, do they?"

    "Family wealth isn¡¯t an excuse for you to bend the rules." Su Qingnuan sneered. "I¡¯ve seen other people, why don¡¯t they resort to such underhanded tactics? Why is it only you who thinks this way?"

    "Others don¡¯t?" Kong Rong raised her voice angrily. "That¡¯s because they don¡¯t have the capability! If they had the means, do you think they wouldn¡¯t want to cheat?"

    "They don¡¯t." Su Qingnuan shook her head calmly. "Most people rely on their own abilities. For you to force your own bad ideas onto others¡ªthat¡¯s what¡¯sughable."

    At the word ughable," Kong Rong finally lost her temper and rushed forward.

    Gu Xiaoxiao hurriedly stepped in front of Su Qingnuan. "What are you doing? This is a hospital!"

    Kong Rong grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao by her cor, shouting angrily, "Get out of my way!"

    "No way!" Gu Xiaoxiao shoved Kong Rong back. "Are you insane? You made a mistake yourself, and now you¡¯re ming others!"

    Kong Rong was caught by the people behind her, her face grim.

    "Refusing a toast, opting for punishment instead." Kong Rong waved her hand. "Take her down!"

    At thatmand, several ck-d men rushed up and pulled Gu Xiaoxiao aside.

    Seeing them about to reach her, Su Qingnuan stepped back, her expression growing colder. "Kong Rong, have you considered the consequences of what you¡¯re doing now?"

    "Consequences?" Kong Rong sneered. "I¡¯ve never been one to worry about consequences! Get her now!"

    As those men¡¯s hands neared Su Qingnuan, she closed her eyes.

    "Stop!"

    A sudden voice cut through the tension, and everyone turned toward the hospital room door.

    Fu Yihan sat in a wheelchair, his face emotionless as he looked at the people in the room.

    "Who are you?" Kong Rong frowned, ring at Fu Yihan with dissatisfaction. "What¡¯s a cripple doing here? Get out immediately!"

    Cripple?

    Fu Yihan narrowed his eyes, focusing on the woman in front of him.

    "Ah Qi," Fu Yihan said.

    Ah Qi hurriedly lowered his head and responded, "Here."

    "She called me a cripple." Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled into a cruel smile. "Who¡¯s the real cripple here?"

    Ah Qi lifted his head, expressionless, and looked at the woman. "She is."

    "Mhm. Go ahead."

    Ah Qi entered the room. Someone darted forward to stop him, but Ah Qi easily pushed them aside.

    "What are you doing?" Kong Rong furrowed her brow. "Why are you all standing around? Stop him now!"

    As soon as she finished speaking, a group of people rushed in, but in Ah Qi¡¯s eyes, they were just clowns. Within moments, he had dealt with all of them, leaving them sprawled out on the ground.

    Seeing this, Kong Rong¡¯s expression changed. She grabbed someone nearby and hid behind them.

    "I pay you to work, not freeload! You can¡¯t even stop one person?"

    Upon hearing this, the ck-d men rushed forward again.

    But such mindless attacks were still useless against Ah Qi.

    Slowly, he reached Kong Rong and grabbed the man in front of her. Calmly, he asked, "Miss Kong, if you apologize now for what you said earlier, our Eldest Young Master might forgive you."

    Terrified, Kong Rong nced at Fu Yihan, trembling, and spoke haltingly.

    "Eldest Young Master? I¡¯m the Young Miss here! Just because you¡¯re sitting in a wheelchair, you dare act like someone important?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze grew colder as he stared at Kong Rong, as though looking at a corpse.

    Ah Qi sighed softly.

    "You brought this on yourself."

    With that, he threw the man aside and grabbed Kong Rong.

    "Hey! What are you doing? Let go of me!" Kong Rong shouted, struggling against Ah Qi.

    Ah Qi released her, causing Kong Rong to fall to the ground,nding hard on her backside.

    "You!" Kong Rong scrambled to stand.

    Ah Qi pursed his lips and reached out again, lifting Kong Rong off the ground.

    "What are you doing?"

    She grabbed Ah Qi¡¯s hand and shouted angrily, "Do you even know who I am? How dare you humiliate me like this¡ªyou¡¯re dead meat!"

    "Who are you?" Ah Qi asked.

    "She¡¯s Kong Rong, daughter of the Kong family," Gu Xiaoxiao quickly interjected.

    "Oh." With a nk expression, Ah Qi tightened his grip and lifted her.

    "Didn¡¯t you hear me? I¡¯m the second Miss of the Kong family! And you dare treat me like this!"

    Ah Qi said coldly, "Never heard of the Kong family."

    "You!"

    He tossed Kong Rong again, treating her like a rag doll.

    Kong Rong had no ability to resist, and the ck-d men who had been beaten to the ground pretended not to see anything, lying still as though dead.

    Hearing Kong Rong cry, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan said quietly, "She¡¯s still a woman, after all."

    Fu Yihan, previously emotionless, raised an eyebrow at her words.

    "Aren¡¯t you a woman?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan fell silent.

    Everyone present knew how Kong Rong had treated her earlier. What Ah Qi was doing now was nowhere near as cruel as what Su Qingnuan had endured.

    Her speaking up for Kong Rong in this moment seemed foolish.

    No one said anything further. The only sound in the room was Kong Rong¡¯s sobbing.

    "I was wrong!" Kong Rong struggled to break free from Ah Qi¡¯s grip, tears streaming down her face. "I was really wrong! Please stop!"

    Ah Qi raised an eyebrow and followed her, catching her by the cor yet again and lifting her before tossing her back onto the floor.

 Chapter 95 Let the Old Master Come

    <h4>Chapter 95: Chapter 95 Let the Old Master Come</h4><h4></h4>

    "You all deserve to die!" Kong Rong red at everyone and shouted urgently, "Su Qingnuan, I will definitely have my father kill you!"

    Su Qingnuan frowned but did not look at her.

    "Stop."

    A Qi froze, turned, and looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan leisurely pushed his wheelchair into the room, stopping in front of Kong Rong.

    He tugged at the corners of his mouth, his smile like someone crawling out of hell¡ªeerie and ghostly.

    "Kong Rong, is it?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Intimidated by his expression, Kong Rong almost forgot to respond. She stiffened before nodding awkwardly.

    "Second Miss of the Kong family?"

    "...Yes."

    "Then that¡¯s correct." Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows, withdrew his gaze, and looked at A Qi. "Call Mr. Kong and inform him that this cripple demands his granddaughter apany me in being crippled as well."

    "Yes."

    "You!" Kong Rong pointed at Fu Yihan and shouted angrily, "What do you think you are? How dare you threaten my grandfather!"

    Fu Yihan chuckled softly, "I am nothing, but I do have the capability to threaten your grandfather."

    With that, he turned to observe as A Qi made the call.

    "Hello, Mr. Kong, I¡¯m calling from here..."

    He spoke seriously,pletely oblivious to the wary gazes fixated on him from others in the room.

    "Impossible!" Kong Rongughed mockingly. "Stop pretending. There¡¯s no way you have my grandfather¡¯s contact info."

    After speaking, Kong Rong straightened up and headed toward the door.

    "Tsk!" Fu Yihan sneered coldly. "So disobedient!"

    The next moment, A Qi, while holding the phone, walked up to Kong Rong.

    "Without the Eldest Young Master¡¯s permission, no one is allowed to leave." A Qi said expressionlessly.

    Kong Rong turned back and red resentfully at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan rested his hands leisurely on the wheelchair, a faint smile ying on his lips as he looked at her. "Seems like you¡¯re quite dissatisfied."

    Kong Rong averted her gaze and said nothing.

    "But dissatisfaction makes no difference." Fu Yihan¡¯sughter carried a trace of cruelty. "After all, you¡¯re powerless."

    "...."

    Kong Rong hung her head low, hunching slightly, lost in thought.

    A Qi hung up the phone and looked at Fu Yihan.

    "Eldest Young Master, Mr. Kong is on his way."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan calmly retracted his gaze. "Make sure Miss Kong stays standing; if she ends up crippledter, she won¡¯t even be able to stand."

    "Yes!"

    "You people are crossing the line!" Kong Rong suddenly shouted.

    But her fury was met with indifference.

    A Qi maneuvered her to stand against the wall, staring at her intently without relent.

    The others, who had been feigning unconsciousness on the floor, were also driven out by A Qi.

    The room fell quiet once more.

    Su Qingnuan nced secretly at Fu Yihan.

    The man sat in the wheelchair, his expression calm, as if the words spoken earlier had not been uttered by him.

    Having grown ustomed to his helpless demeanor, Su Qingnuan almost forgot¡ªhe was someone with a sadistic streak.

    "What are you looking at?"

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan quickly retracted her gaze, looked down, and replied softly, "Noth...nothing."

    "Control your eyes." Fu Yihan frowned. When he noticed the terror shing in her gaze, an inexplicable difort filled him.

    ".....Alright."

    Silently lowering her gaze, Su Qingnuan clenched the cup in her hands as her stare drifted aimlessly.

    Beside her, Gu Xiaoxiao gently patted her back, offering an intermittentfort.

    The simple gesture seemed to help; Su Qingnuan gradually began to rx.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The knock on the hospital room door drew everyone¡¯s gaze in unison.

    A Qi walked over and opened the door.

    A low murmuring voice was heard from outside.

    After a moment, A Qi turned back to Fu Yihan.

    "Eldest Young Master, should we let them in?" A Qi asked.

    Fu Yihan sneered coldly, "Who are they? Why should they be let in?"

    Hearing this, A Qi turned back to converse further with the people at the door.

    The group remained outside, not daring to step in without permission, resorting to speaking with A Qi instead.

    After a long while, A Qi closed the door and carried a bag over to Fu Yihan.

    "What¡¯s this?" Fu Yihan cast a nce at the bag in his hand and asked coldly.

    "A visiting gift for the Eldest Young Madam." A Qi replied.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and nced toward the person lying on the hospital bed. "If it¡¯s for her, then hand it to her. Why bring it to me?"

    "Understood."

    A Qi carried the bag over to Su Qingnuan¡¯s side and cautiously handed it to her.

    Monitoring Fu Yihan¡¯s expression and noting no drastic change, Su Qingnuan hesitated briefly before epting the bag.

    The small bag contained quite a few items¡ªsupplements, among others...

    "A Qi." Suddenly, Su Qingnuan called out, "Send the items back."

    She passed the bag back to A Qi, frowning. "They¡¯re too expensive, I can¡¯t ept them."

    A Qi nced at Fu Yihan and stood still.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan also deferred to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan was casually sipping tea, idly fiddling with a translucent, gem-like bead in his hand, the material unknown.

    "Don¡¯t want it?" He asked.

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly and removed a box from the bag. "This is far too costly; I cannot ept it."

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrow.

    A Qi quickly took the box and handed it back to Fu Yihan.

    Casually flipping it open, Fu Yihan sneered, "They even brought something like this. Seems like they truly treasure their granddaughter."

    He closed the box, tossing it to A Qi. "Send it back."

    "Yes."

    A Qi carried the bag and stepped outside once more.

    Low murmurs lingered beyond the door; Su Qingnuan listened closely, feeling puzzled.

    Why note inside directly?

    If it was indeed Kong Rong¡¯s grandfather, given his age, he ought tomand some level of respect.

    Su Qingnuan looked up at Fu Yihan, her lips parting briefly before hesitating to speak.

    She unknowingly caught his eye. Fu Yihan frowned. "Do you have something to say?"

    She quickly lowered her gaze, shaking her head. "No...nothing."

    His brows knit tighter, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, no longer looking at her.

    Watching from the sidelines, Gu Xiaoxiao approached Su Qingnuan, exasperated. "Why are you so timid? If you¡¯ve got something to say, just say it! Isn¡¯t he your man?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly and lowered her voice. "Did you see the way he looked? Would you dare to speak?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze.

    Forget speaking¡ªever since Fu Yihan appeared, she hadn¡¯t dared to take more than a shallow breath, fearing she¡¯d be thrown out.

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s silence, Su Qingnuan chuckled. "Don¡¯t kid yourself. I¡¯m definitely not talking."

    After a pause, Gu Xiaoxiao admitted, "Fine, neither will I."

    The two exchanged a knowing smile.

    As they spoke, the hospital room door opened. A Qi entered, escorting an elderly man with gray hair inside.

    "Grandfather!" Leaning against the wall, Kong Rong eximed excitedly.

    The old man gave her a cold nce, his gaze sharp.

    Kong Rong immediately fell silent, her head lowering.

    The elder approached Fu Yihan, offering a faint smile. "Young man from the Fu family, it¡¯s been a long time."

    Without expression, Fu Yihan nodded. "Mr. Kong, it has."

 Chapter 96 Courting Death

    <h4>Chapter 96: Chapter 96 Courting Death</h4><h4></h4>

    Even though he was speaking with an elder, Fu Yihan¡¯s tonecked any respect whatsoever.

    Old Master Kong didn¡¯t seem to mind much. He sat down at his own pace and smiled faintly, saying, "Young Master Fu ought to know this: I have no sons under my name, only one precious daughter and one beloved granddaughter. They are my heart and soul."

    Fu Yihan said nothing, his gaze quietly fixed on Kong Rong not far away.

    Kong Rong lowered her head, not daring to meet Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes.

    "How could I possibly know such a thing?" Fu Yihan¡¯s smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes as he replied coldly, "All I know is that, up until now, there are very few rumors about me circting outside. Old Master Kong, do you know why that is?"

    His smile froze. The old man frowned and said, "Young Master Fu, she¡¯s my only granddaughter. No matter what conditions are required, I must ensure her safety."

    Fu Yihan chuckled lightly, his lips parting, emitting an undeniable chill.

    "Since Old Master is so determined to protect your granddaughter, you should¡¯ve taught her well from the start."

    "... Yes." The old man nodded, his voice heavy. "It was our failure in educating her. I hope Young Master Fu can give us another chance."

    "A chance?" Fu Yihanughed coldly, his icy gaze directed at Su Qingnuan. "Your granddaughter kidnapped my wife, locked her in a cab in the changing room, causing multiple abrasions on her body. She¡¯s hospitalized now. Old Master, how do you think this debt should be settled?"

    Old Master Kong was momentarily stunned and turned to look at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan quickly straightened up in her seat, meeting the old man¡¯s gaze.

    "Thisdy is... Young Master Fu¡¯s wife?" the old man asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, offering an embarrassed smile. "Yes."

    "I deeply apologize!" The old man stood up and approached the bedside. "Miss Su, is that correct? I sincerely apologize for everything my granddaughter Kong Rong has done to you."

    An elder past his fifties suddenly adopted a warm attitude and apologized to Su Qingnuan in such earnest words.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head, saying, "This incident is not your fault, Old Master. But Kong Rong¡¯s actions this time have truly gone too far..."

    "I know, I know." Old Master Kong grew emotional. "That rebellious child Kong Rong¡ªit¡¯s all our fault for spoiling her since childhood. Don¡¯t you worry. When we return, I¡¯ll make sure to discipline her properly!"

    Seeing his sincere expression, the weathered face filled with an air of pain,

    Su Qingnuan hesitated and turned to look at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "It¡¯s your matter. Decide for yourself."

    "Can I speak?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Fu Yihan turned his head away without saying a word.

    Seeing his reaction, Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and turned to face the old man.

    "Old Master, I can let Kong Rong off this time, but if she ever repeats such behavior in the future, don¡¯t me us for being ruthless. I¡¯ve kept the injury report, as well as the surveince footage of her kidnapping me. If things escte, letting her stay behind bars for a few years wouldn¡¯t be a joke."

    "Alright, alright!" The old man nodded hurriedly, visibly moved. "Miss Su, rest assured, I¡¯ll personally keep an eye on her and won¡¯t let her cause trouble anymore!"

    Seeing the sincere look in the old man¡¯s eyes, Su Qingnuan nodded and continued, "Additionally, previously Kong Rong leveraged the power of the Kong family to act high-handed and secure privileges in school. I hope all of these benefits and privileges will be canceled."

    "Canceled!"

    "No!"

    Kong Rong¡¯s eyes gleamed with agitation as she looked at her grandfather. "Grandpa! I worked so hard to get those. How could you just cancel them like that?"

    "Shut up!" The old man red at her and barked angrily, "You, stand there obediently now! Don¡¯t say another word."

    After speaking, the old man turned his gaze back to Su Qingnuan, smiling more kindly. "Miss Su, if you have any other requests, please don¡¯t hesitate to share them with me."

    ncing at Kong Rong, who stood there sulking, Su Qingnuan shook her head. "Nothing else for now."

    The old man breathed a sigh of relief and turned back to Fu Yihan.

    "Young Master Fu, shall we handle this matter ording to Miss Su¡¯s wishes?"

    His tone carried inquiry, but it sounded more like he was seeking Fu Yihan¡¯s approval.

    With an indifferent expression, Fu Yihan lowered his head and let out a faint "Mm."

    A Qi appeared out of nowhere, clutching pen and paper. The old man drafted a letter ofmitment, then left with the fuming Kong Rong.

    Even as she stepped out of the room, Kong Rong kept ring at Su Qingnuan.

    With the old man gone, along with the noisy Kong Rong, the ward returned to tranquility.

    "Qingnuan, I¡¯ll go get you some water," Gu Xiaoxiao said.

    "Alright."

    Gu Xiaoxiao stepped out, and A Qi followed her out too.

    For a moment, the room was left with only Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan.

    Su Qingnuan looked out of the corner of her eye at Fu Yihan, who had his eyes closed, lost in thought.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan¡¯s voice was soft and sweet. "Thank you."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan still kept his eyes closed, his toneced with disdain. "What is there to thank me for?"

    Su Qingnuan took a deep breath, mustering strength from her chest. "I said¡ªthank you!"

    Her voice echoed in the quiet ward.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and slowly opened his eyes, his gaze falling upon Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head, her face filled with awkwardness.

    She rarely spoke in such a loud voice; she was usually gentle andposed.

    "Your voice is plenty loud." Fu Yihan sneered. "You should try speaking this loudly to outsiders as well."

    Her cheeks flushed red as Su Qingnuan clutched the bedding in her hands, speaking softly, "I wouldn¡¯t dare speak like this to outsiders."

    "Then what did you say?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head. "Nothing at all."

    Giving her a dubious look, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze.

    "You didn¡¯t win a cement in thispetition," Fu Yihan said.

    Her smile froze slightly, and Su Qingnuan hung her head even lower.

    "I apologize, Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan sighed softly. "I failed to seize the opportunity."

    In the quiet ward filled with the sound of sighs, Fu Yihan turned his wheelchair around, facing the lush greenery outside.

    "In a few days, thepany will be going to the university for recruitment."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan raised her gaze, shocked as she looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold and detached figure seemed to radiate something warmer under the sunlight¡¯s glow.

    "You don¡¯t understand?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly replied, "I understand! It¡¯s just that yourpany rarely recruits externally, doesn¡¯t it?"

    In her university, countless graduates had spent years trying to break into thepany for internships, but the sess rate remained incredibly low.

    "Thepany is expanding this year,unching new businesses, so more talent is needed."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice remained aloof, but at this moment, his cool tone entered Su Qingnuan¡¯s ears like an angelic melody.

    "I understand!" Her eyes shimmering, Su Qingnuan¡¯s face was lit up with determination. "I¡¯ll make the most of this opportunity. Thank you, Mr. Fu."

    He didn¡¯t reply, simply turning his wheelchair to face Su Qingnuan directly.

    "Without the capability, you won¡¯t be able to enter thepany for an internship. I won¡¯t be cutting you any ck." Fu Yihan said uninterestedly, his cold eyes devoid of emotion.

    Su Qingnuan nodded firmly. "I understand. I will rely on my own abilities to gain entry into yourpany."

 Chapter 97 Good News

    <h4>Chapter 97: Chapter 97 Good News</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan stayed in the hospital for two days before eagerly packing her things to go home.

    Gu Xiaoxiao came to help and, noticing the smile on her lips, asked curiously, "Why are you so happy?"

    "I¡¯m discharged, of course I¡¯m happy!" Su Qingnuan replied with a grin as she folded her clothes.

    "No, something¡¯s up." Gu Xiaoxiao sat down, poking the dimples at the corners of Su Qingnuan¡¯s mouth,ughing as she said, "You¡¯re way too happy¡ªit¡¯s a little excessive."

    "What¡¯s excessive about it?"

    Swatting Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand away, Su Qingnuan leaned in close to her ear and whispered a few words.

    "Really?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes suddenly sparkled with excitement.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, barely able to hold back the smile spreading across her face. "So, when you get back, make sure you¡¯re prepared. In a few days, our chance wille."

    "Got it." Gu Xiaoxiao sped up, her tone excited. "This time, I¡¯m going to try my best and make sure I stick with you."

    "Good."

    Carrying her things, Su Qingnuan walked out of the hospital room and noticed Ah Qi waiting by the elevator.

    "Ah Qi, thank you for everything," Su Qingnuan said with a smile.

    Ah Qi nodded and pressed the elevator button.

    After dropping Gu Xiaoxiao back at school, Su Qingnuan finally returned to the Fu household.

    The Fu family home, which was never lively, remained cold and quiet.

    As Su Qingnuan passed through the living room, she only saw the old man seated there.

    "Grandpa," Su Qingnuan said, standing properly next to the sofa with her bag in hand.

    The old man nced at her, his eyes narrowing as he frowned. "Yuerou, your health is far too frail. You¡¯re heading to the hospital every other day."

    Su Qingnuan forced a bitter smile. "Perhaps my luck¡¯s just been badtely."

    "This isn¡¯t good," he said, setting down his book, his worried gaze falling on Su Qingnuan. "Yihan¡¯s health is already poor. If you mess yourself up too and you both end up at the hospital every day, what will happen?"

    Su Qingnuan replied with an awkward smile, "Don¡¯t worry, Grandpa. I¡¯ll make sure to take care of my health."

    "Don¡¯t just say it," the old man admonished, his brows furrowing deeply. "If you can¡¯t manage on your own,e with me to the hospital in a few days and I¡¯ll find a senior doctor to have a proper look at you."

    "... I can handle it myself."

    "How can you handle it?" The old man scrutinized her with suspicion.

    Hurriedly nodding, her gaze firm, Su Qingnuan replied, "I definitely can."

    "Fine." With a hint of regret, the old man withdrew his gaze and picked up his book again. "You just got discharged today, so I won¡¯t push you further. Go upstairs and rest."

    "Thank you, Grandpa."

    Carrying her belongings, Su Qingnuan trotted upstairs.

    Only after returning to her room did Su Qingnuan release a slow, deep breath.

    Sure enough, the old man¡¯s approval of her seemed tied entirely to how well she took care of Fu Yihan.

    Clutching her chest, Su Qingnuan closed her eyes.

    After her heartbeat gradually settled, Su Qingnuan opened her eyes again and straightened up.

    No matter what, she had to get through the interview first.

    On the first day of the new month, Su Qingnuan woke up early and wheeled Fu Yihan downstairs.

    "Up so early today?" The old man remarked when he saw them. "Yuerou, you¡¯ve just recovered from an illness. Aren¡¯t you going to rest another couple of days?"

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly patted her shoulder, smiling as she replied, "I¡¯m fine now, Grandpa!"

    Although herplexion was still a bit pale, there was a glimmer in her eyes, her entire demeanor vibrant and energetic.

    "It¡¯s good to know you¡¯re fine," the old man remarked, shifting his gaze to Fu Yihan. "Yihan, there¡¯s something I¡¯d like to discuss with you."

    Fu Yihan quietly ate his breakfast, making no reply.

    Seeing this, the old man awkwardly cleared his throat.

    Fu Yihan raised his gaze, looking at him puzzled.

    "It¡¯s that¡ªwell, now that you¡¯ve had plenty of rest... The matter of returning to thepany..."

    The atmosphere at the dining table instantly turned cold.

    Fu Yixing clenched his chopsticks tightly and stared at the old man.

    Remaining calm, Fu Yihan cast him a faint nce and continued eating without showing any emotion.

    "Yihan... about thepany..."

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing cut him off loudly, anger zing in his eyes.

    The old man shot him a re. "Why are you shouting? If you don¡¯t rely on your older brother, how do you expect to resolve this matter?"

    "Of course I can!" Fu Yixing suddenly stood, grabbing his coat and bag. "I¡¯ve already said¡ªI¡¯ll handle this myself! I don¡¯t need anyone¡¯s help!"

    "Yixing!" The old man rose as well, chasing after him.

    He stole a subtle nce at Su Qingnuan, but she showed no reaction.

    "What are you looking at?" Fu Yihan suddenly lifted his gaze, meeting Su Qingnuan¡¯s probing look. He sneered coldly. "Got something to say?"

    "No... nothing!"

    Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her gaze and resumed eating breakfast.

    After a long pause, the person beside her set down his chopsticks, leaning quietly against his chair.

    Noticing this, Su Qingnuan also ced her utensils down. "I¡¯m finished."

    "Alright, let¡¯s go."

    Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan out the door.

    By the car not far away, the old man was still speaking with Fu Yixing. Their exchange carried an air of tension.

    "Focus on walking."

    Startled, Su Qingnuan quickly redirected her attention, focusing on carefully pushing Fu Yihan to the car.

    In the car, Fu Yihan took a file from the seat next to him and said quietly, "First, take the Young Madam to her school."

    "Understood."

    Su Qingnuan hugged her backpack, leaning against her seat, her demeanor much less restrained than before.

    When the car stopped at the school gate, Fu Yihan finally looked up.

    "There¡¯s a dinner tonight. Once your sses are finished, Ah Qi wille to pick you up."

    Su Qingnuan paused for a moment, surprised, but the car had already driven away by the time she came to her senses.

    Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t known for liking gatherings; his reluctance had been evident during the previous few asions. But this dinner¡ªinitiated by him rather than the old man¡¯s pressure¡ªclearly carried significant importance.

    "Hey, did you hear? Kong Rong got expelled!"

    "Really? That little troublemaker?"

    "Over by the bulletin board; they¡¯ve already posted the announcement!"

    Pausing mid-step, Su Qingnuan turned and walked toward the bulletin board.

    A crowd had gathered there, chattering away, each sharing their spections.

    Standing on tiptoe, Su Qingnuan tried to make out the bulletin board¡¯s content.

    "Qingnuan?"

    A hand touched her shoulder, and Su Qingnuan turned around.

    Gu Xiaoxiao stood there with a bright smile, looking amused.

    "Why do you always appear out of nowhere?" Su Qingnuan asked helplessly.

    Leaning against Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder, Gu Xiaoxiao whispered, "You¡¯re here to check out the announcement about Kong Rong¡¯s punishment, aren¡¯t you?"

    "Was she really punished?" Su Qingnuan asked, surprised. "What punishment?"

    "Expulsion."

    Gu Xiaoxiao pulled out her phone and handed it to Su Qingnuan. "Take a look. I snapped a photo earlier¡ªthe punishment was expulsion."

    On the small screen, the photo clearly captured the bulletin board announcement in full.

    "...It doesn¡¯t say what she did wrong, just straight to expulsion?" Su Qingnuan frowned. "That doesn¡¯t seem right."

    "Exactly," Gu Xiaoxiao said, lowering her voice. "Everyone¡¯s saying Kong Rong must¡¯ve crossed someone powerful to get expelled like this. What do you think¡ªit couldn¡¯t have been your man, could it?"

    Su Qingnuan froze, staying silent.

    Back at the hospital, Su Qingnuan had sensed Fu Yihan¡¯s dissatisfaction with how she handled things. But...

 Chapter 98 The Person in the Dark

    <h4>Chapter 98: Chapter 98 The Person in the Dark</h4><h4></h4>

    Su Qingnuan slightly frowned.

    All this time, she thought she had some understanding of Fu Yihan, but this matter waspletely unexpected.

    ording to Fu Yihan¡¯s character, if it were left to Su Qingnuan to handle, he wouldn¡¯t have asked further questions, but how to exin Kong Rong¡¯s expulsion?

    Or did Kong Rong provoke someone else?

    "What are you thinking about?" Gu Xiaoxiao nudged Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder,ughing, "Anyway, this person leaving is good news, we finally don¡¯t have to put up with it anymore!"

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s excited expression, Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly, "Why are you so excited?"

    "Can¡¯t I be a little excited?" Gu Xiaoxiao waved her phone triumphantly, "This little tyrant has finally been kicked out, we¡¯re all thrilled!"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head helplessly.

    Noticing her expression, Gu Xiaoxiaoughed, "Alright, alright, let¡¯s not talk about this anymore, okay?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at her, eyes full of resignation.

    "You know I don¡¯t like talking about those things," Su Qingnuan said.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded, "I know you¡¯re kind-hearted. Alright, I won¡¯t mention it again, let¡¯s get back to ss!"

    With that, she took Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand and walked back.

    Looking back at the direction of the bulletin board, quite a few people were already seated, all with expressions ready for the drama.

    It seemed that Kong Rong had offended many people in the past, and not a single person was speaking up for her.

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan followed Gu Xiaoxiao back.

    Inside the ssroom, all the chatter was about Kong Rong.

    Everyone¡¯s discussions painted this incident as thrilling and filled with intrigue, leaving Su Qingnuan amazed.

    "Do you think these people have nothing better to do?" Gu Xiaoxiao finally couldn¡¯t help but say, looking over disdainfully, "Don¡¯t they need to read? They¡¯re all talking about this matter."

    Su Qingnuan looked at her with a half-smile, "I guess their current mood is simr to when you first found out about this news."

    Hearing this, Gu Xiaoxiao was relieved.

    Kong Rong¡¯s matter was known to everyone by the end of the morning.

    This troubled Gu Xiaoxiao a lot.

    "What are you worried about here?" Su Qingnuan said amusedly, "Are you the one who got expelled?"

    "No." Gu Xiaoxiao handed her phone to Su Qingnuan, "Look at this, someone actually dragged you into it."

    "Me?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "What does this have to do with me?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao leaned closer to Su Qingnuan and whispered, "Someone found out you told the director she was cheating."

    Su Qingnuan paused and put down the phone.

    "Let them say what they want, it¡¯s just spection, no need to mind," she said.

    "... Alright."

    Putting away the phone, Gu Xiaoxiao walked behind Su Qingnuan, "I found a new BBQ ce nearby. Wanna go after ss?"

    "Not going," Su Qingnuan said amusedly, "I have something at home tonight, Mr. Fu told me to go back earlier."

    "Aww..." Gu Xiaoxiao sighed regretfully, "Alright, I was going to treat you to dinner."

    "Oh please, you only mentioned treating me after you heard I was going back, right?" Su Qingnuan yfully poked her forehead, "I¡¯ll remember this, you owe me next time."

    "Hmph!" Gu Xiaoxiao red at her, "You make it sound like I¡¯m so stingy."

    Su Qingnuan smiled without saying anything.

    Walking out of school, Su Qingnuan spotted A Qi sitting in the driver¡¯s seat from afar.

    "A Qi, today have a drink..."

    "Young madam," A Qi nced behind her and interrupted Su Qingnuan, "The Eldest Young Master is waiting for you."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment and bent down to look at the back seat.

    Through the window, she couldn¡¯t see the person¡¯s expression inside but could see their straight posture.

    She promptly quieted down, opened the backseat door, and got in.

    "Mr. Fu," she called softly.

    Fu Yihan nced at her, "Got everything packed?"

    "Yes."

    "Let¡¯s go."

    The car quietly drove on the road, and Su Qingnuan leaned silently against the car door.

    She asionally nced at Fu Yihan, but he showed no change in expression as he quietly looked ahead.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan asked softly, "No need to change clothes today?"

    Fu Yihan turned back, his eyes scrutinizing her.

    After a while, he withdrew his gaze, "No need."

    Su Qingnuan nodded reassuringly, looking out the window.

    Unknowingly, the crowd outside gradually disappeared, and they arrived at a secluded ce.

    Trees lined both sides, with the vehicle traveling on a quiet road.

    Su Qingnuan curiously looked around but couldn¡¯t see any signs describing the ce.

    "What is this ce?" Su Qingnuan muttered, "Did we enter the mountains?"

    "It¡¯s the vi area in the western suburbs."

    "....." Su Qingnuan looked back.

    Fu Yihan stared straight ahead, not looking at her.

    Before long, the car stopped.

    On the right was an endlesswn, and on the left stood a small white vi.

    A Qi got out of the car and helped Fu Yihan onto a wheelchair.

    Su Qingnuan quickly walked over and held onto the wheelchair.

    Fu Yihan gave her a sidelong nce but said nothing.

    "Eldest Young Master, please wait, I¡¯ll knock on the door."

    Su Qingnuan watched A Qi walk to the door and ring the bell.

    As the doorbell rang repeatedly, the vi door opened, and someone stepped out.

    "Yo? I thought you wouldn¡¯t arrive until tonight!" Qin Chuan stood at the iron gate, a sarcastic smile on his face.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, expressionless, "Open the door."

    The door opened from the inside.

    Qin Chuan nced at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan paused, quickly releasing her hand.

    Noticing this, Qin Chuan frowned, "What are you doing?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan asked, confused, "Weren¡¯t you going to push?"

    "You wish!" Qin Chuan looked at her with an amused expression, "You¡¯re not going to push your own husband, you want me to do it?"

    "..."

    Before Fu Yihan could look over, Su Qingnuan quickly grabbed the handles and pushed him inside.

    "It¡¯s really easy being someone else¡¯s wife nowadays, look at this....."

    Ignoring Qin Chuan¡¯s words, Fu Yihan nced back, "Qin Chuan has a bad personality, and he speaks rudely."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan was taken aback and looked at Fu Yihan in confusion.

    Seeing the confusion in her eyes, Fu Yihan maintained his cold expression and continued, "If you don¡¯t understand, just ignore it."

    "..... Okay."

    It wasn¡¯t until they entered the house that Su Qingnuan realized that Fu Yihan was telling her not to mind.

    A smile appeared at the corners of her lips as she looked down at him, once more certain that Kong Rong¡¯s situation probably wasn¡¯t his doing.

    "Yihan¡¯s here!" A familiar voice re-emerged.

    Gong Qi walked over with a water cup, his smile still bright, "Wee to my home, this is your wee gift!"

    epting the water, Fu Yihan coldlyughed, "So stingy?"

 Chapter 99: Her Identity

    <h4>Chapter 99: Chapter 99: Her Identity</h4><h4></h4>

    "We haven¡¯t served the main dishes yet!" Gong Qi casually grabbed the wheelchair¡¯s handle and smiled, "As per your instructions, I¡¯ve already contacted those people. What¡¯s the n next?"

    Fu Yihan nced at his watch and asked, "When do we eat?"

    "...That¡¯s it?" Gong Qi asked in surprise.

    Fu Yihan raised a brow, "What else?"

    "...Alright then, you¡¯re still not telling me, huh?"

    Fu Yihan said nothing.

    Letting go of the wheelchair, Gong Qi nced toward Su Qingnuan with a smile, "Sister-inw, I¡¯m leaving this to you. I¡¯ll go check on the kitchen."

    "Ah! Okay," Su Qingnuan hurriedly responded.

    She quickly took over the wheelchair and watched Gong Qi disappear into the kitchen.

    "Is Mr. Gong nning to cook himself?" Su Qingnuan asked curiously.

    "Hm." Fu Yihan looked toward the sofa, "Push me over."

    Su Qingnuan immediately pushed him toward the sofa.

    Though it wasn¡¯t their house, at this moment, only Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan were sitting in the living room.

    Fu Yihan held a magazine in his hands, his face expressionless as he read.

    Su Qingnuan sped her hands tightly on her knees, wringing them repeatedly.

    "Pour me a ss of water," Fu Yihan suddenly said.

    Seeing his ss with only a little water left, Su Qingnuan quickly stood up, grabbed the cup, and went to the kitchen.

    "Sister-inw?" Gong Qi asked in surprise, "What brings you in here?"

    Su Qingnuan waved the cup in her hand and smiled, "Yihan asked me to refill his water."

    "Ah!" Gong Qi chuckled meaningfully, "Right this way."

    Su Qingnuan stepped over and epted Gong Qi¡¯s help in refilling the water before turning to leave.

    "Wait!"

    Su Qingnuan turned back and saw Gong Qi holding a tray of snacks. He handed it to her, saying, "Bring these out too and snack on them for now."

    "Alright, thank you."

    Carrying the water and snacks, Su Qingnuan brought them to Fu Yihan.

    Without lifting his head, Fu Yihan only cast a nce from the corner of his eye, then returned his focus to the magazine in his hands.

    It was almost dinner time, and Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but swallow her saliva as she nced at the snacks on the table.

    "If you want to eat, go ahead."

    The sudden voice startled Su Qingnuan back to her senses.

    "What are you afraid of?" Fu Yihan asked again.

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her hands and quietly said, "We¡¯re in someone else¡¯s house¡ªit doesn¡¯t feel right."

    "You¡¯re not hungry?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan swallowed hard and remained silent.

    Fu Yihan frowned and finally raised his eyes from his magazine.

    "If you¡¯re hungry, eat. What¡¯s the point of worrying so much?"

    He handed the snack te to Su Qingnuan, "Finish it."

    "...I can¡¯t eat this much."

    If she finished all of it now, how could she manage dinnerter?

    Su Qingnuan hesitantly picked up a piece of the snack and took a small bite.

    The vor wasn¡¯t bad, but eating it felt oddly unsettling.

    After eating two pieces, Su Qingnuan decided that was enough and stopped.

    "Come on inside," Qin Chuan¡¯s voice called out from the doorway.

    Su Qingnuan bent forward and peeked toward the entrance.

    She saw several men in suits following Qin Chuan as they entered.

    "Mr. Fu," the men stood before Fu Yihan with respectful bows and greeted him.

    Fu Yihan lifted his head, his gaze cold as it swept over them, "Everyone¡¯s here?"

    "Yes, Mr. Fu."

    Setting down his magazine, Fu Yihan scrutinized the group before him.

    "You all recognize this person, correct?" Fu Yihan asked, pointing toward Su Qingnuan.

    Not just Su Qingnuan¡ªeveryone else froze, shooting puzzled looks at Fu Yihan.

    "Don¡¯t recognize her?" Fu Yihan questioned.

    No one replied.

    Fu Yihan sneered, "You all seem quite carefree, huh? Not even knowing the Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife from the Fu family anymore?"

    The group immediately lowered their heads, anxiously exining, "Mr. Fu, we knew little about the Young Madam. This is the first time we¡¯ve seen her."

    "Your first time seeing her?" Fu Yihan chuckled coldly. "And what have you been doing all this time?"

    No one dared respond.

    The tranquil atmosphere rippled like disturbed waters.

    The living room gradually filled with tension.

    Qin Chuan leaned against his headrest, enjoying the scene, his expressionden with intrigue.

    Su Qingnuan remained utterly silent, unable to tear her eyes away from the people before her.

    "Why is no one speaking?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice turned icy, intimidating the room into greater silence.

    "Are you all mute now?"

    Still, no response.

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brows.

    Atst, someone stepped forward, "Eldest Young Master, it¡¯s due to ourck of thorough intelligence-gathering. Please forgive us!"

    Fu Yihan raised a brow, the chill finally dissipating.

    "Do you all recognize the Young Madam now?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "Yes."

    In unison, the group turned their gaze toward Su Qingnuan, staring at her intently.

    Su Qingnuan awkwardly smiled and quickly turned her face away, avoiding their piercing gazes.

    "Good, now that you know, things will be simpler." Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled into a cruel, icy smile, "From now on, if the Young Madam suffers at anyone¡¯s hands outside, you all know what needs to be done, don¡¯t you?"

    "Yes!"

    "Understood."

    Expressionless, Fu Yihan lifted a hand, "Alright, off you go."

    "Yes."

    Watching the group leave hastily, Su Qingnuan finally dared to lift her head.

    "You specifically called them over just to lecture them?" Qin Chuan teased, "Aren¡¯t you afraid they¡¯ll grumble about you behind your back?"

    "Grumble about me?" Fu Yihan scoffed dismissively, "Do they dare grumble about me?"

    "..."

    Seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s confident expression, Qin Chuan was momentarily at a loss for words.

    "True, who would dare grumble about you, our Eldest Young Master!" Qin Chuan slouched onto the couch and scowled, "Tell me¡ªare all your subordinates secretly masochists?"

    Fu Yihan raised a brow but didn¡¯t refute.

    "See? You even think so yourself, don¡¯t you?" Qin Chuan leaned forward inquisitively.

    ncing at him briefly, Fu Yihan shifted his gaze to Su Qingnuan, "What I said to those people earlier, it applies to you too. Do you understand?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan asked hesitantly, "Understand what?"

    "Hahahaha!" Qin Chuanughed mercilessly, "Look at her¡ªshe didn¡¯t even take it to heart. And you specifically called them in just to give them a scolding."

    Qin Chuan clutched his stomach,ughing so hard he copsed onto the sofa.

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her nose awkwardly, avoiding Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze.

    "You still don¡¯t know what I mean?" Fu Yihan pressed.

    "...I think...I might understand?" Su Qingnuan tentatively replied.

    From ahead came a deep sigh, and the surrounding air instantly chilled.

    Su Qingnuan quickly added, "I remember now! It¡¯s about making sure that, going forward, I uphold the Young Madam¡¯s dignity and don¡¯t let anyone treat me unfairly!"

    The frozen air briefly solidified, but then the chill vanished.

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan resumed reading his magazine.

    "As long as you understand."

    No longer under scrutiny, Su Qingnuan released a sigh, finally mustering the courage to lift her head.

    All the while, Qin Chuan had been leaning on his armrest, watching her with a sly, amused grin.

 Chapter 100 Friends

    <h4>Chapter 100: Chapter 100 Friends</h4>

    This dinner party¡ªwhat was its purpose? Anyone with eyes could see.

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t a foolish person. By now, she had pieced it together.

    Gratefully looking at Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan proactively picked up a ss of water.

    "Let me pour you some water."

    With that, she jogged off to the kitchen.

    Qin Chuan nced at the excited figure disappearing into the distance and chuckled, "Yihan, what¡¯s gotten into you today?"

    "What do you mean?" Fu Yihan replied coolly, "Handling proper business."

    "Proper business?" Qin Chuan leaned against the sofa, grinning knowingly. "Gathering those important people just to introduce them to your wife?"

    His fingers paused briefly as he flipped through a book, but Fu Yihan¡¯s expression remained unchanged. "Any issues with that?"

    "Plenty of issues. Care to answer them?"

    "Knowing I won¡¯t answer and still asking?" Fu Yihan raised his head, his icy gazending on Qin Chuan.

    But Qin Chuan remained undeterred, his smirk unwavering.

    "If I don¡¯t pry, am I even myself?" Qin Chuan teased with a smile.

    Fu Yihan frowned and said no more, lowering his head in silence.

    Unrelenting, Qin Chuan leaned closer to Fu Yihan and continued, "I¡¯ve heard your newlywed wife is a well-known music student?"

    "What music student," Fu Yihan replied, his eyes calm and indifferent but fixed on Qin Chuan.

    "Not a music student?" Qin Chuan looked confused, furrowing his brows slightly. "That¡¯s odd. I heard..."

    "Heard what?" Fu Yihan furrowed his brows again. "Stop wasting time on gossip. If you¡¯re really that free, go help in the kitchen."

    "..."

    Qin Chuan shot him a re. "Why do you talk like this? I¡¯m not idling; I¡¯m trying to understand our sister-inw better."

    "If you want to understand, shut your mouth and go do that. Stop asking irrelevant questions."

    "..."

    Is it me, or is speaking to this guy never pleasant?

    Qin Chuan rolled his eyes and got up to leave.

    Not long after, Su Qingnuan emerged with sses of water.

    Seeing only Fu Yihan in the living room, she asked curiously, "Mr. Qin? Where is he?"

    ncing at the two sses in her hands, Fu Yihan took one, downing it in a single gulp, then handed the empty ss back to Su Qingnuan.

    "Take it back. This one¡¯s mine."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan stared at the now-empty ss in disbelief. "Mr. Fu, were you that thirsty?"

    "Hm." Without changing his expression, Fu Yihan nodded and frowned slightly. "Go about your tasks; don¡¯t disturb me."

    "...Alright."

    Still looking surprised, Su Qingnuan carried the empty ss back into the kitchen.

    "What¡¯s up?" Gong Qi asked with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan shook the empty ss,ughing lightly. "Mr. Fu seems really thirsty. He gulped it all down immediately."

    "Really thirsty?" Gong Qiughed and took the ss from her. "Better pour him a few more servings then. This man just likes being dramatic."

    Taking the water again, Su Qingnuan felt a brief sense of disorientation. Was she being recruited as a middleman in some sort ofpetition between them?

    "....."

    When she came out again with a fresh ss, sure enough, she was met with Fu Yihan¡¯s unpleasant expression.

    "I¡¯m drinking this!" Su Qingnuan quickly rified. "This is mine!"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression softened slightly.

    "When¡¯s dinner?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nced back toward the kitchen and replied softly, "Gong Qi said it¡¯s almost ready."

    Fu Yihan nodded, asking nothing more.

    Neither of them anticipated that Gong Qi¡¯s "almost" wasn¡¯t about toe true.

    It wasn¡¯t until nightfall that Gong Qi finally emerged from the kitchen.

    "Dinner¡¯s ready."

    The moment those words were spoken, Su Qingnuan immediately stood up to help out.

    At longst, they finished the meal, and Fu Yihan prepared to leave.

    "You¡¯re leaving after eating?" Gong Qi asked.

    Fu Yihan nodded matter-of-factly. "I am."

    ".....Not staying to help me clean up?" Gong Qi asked.

    Fu Yihan gave Qin Chuan a nce, his intention clear.

    Qin Chuan quickly stood up. "How¡¯s this got to do with me? Why am I suddenly involved again?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan slowly stood up, timidly suggesting, "How about I help?"

    "You know how to wash dishes?" Qin Chuan asked, surprised.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled gently. "I used to do it at home."

    "Alright!" Qin Chuan patted the table enthusiastically. "I¡¯m leaving it to you then!"

    Su Qingnuan nodded with a grin. "Sure."

    With the chore delegated, the other three retreated to thefort of the sofa.

    Qin Chuan nced at Su Qingnuan bustling in and out, seemingly happy as she worked.

    "The young madam of her family still at home did the dishes?" Qin Chuan asked with a smirk.

    Gong Qi shot him a look, slightly furrowing his brows. "Sister-inw is a hardworking and filial person. Can¡¯t she show that off here?"

    "She can, she can. But for a family like Su¡¯s, isn¡¯t that unnecessary?"

    ".....And since when were you an expert on the Su family?" Gong Qi replied, sitting up straight and mocking.

    "And I wouldn¡¯t know?" Qin Chuan also sat up, staring straight at Gong Qi. "Don¡¯t you recall my ties with the Su family? I¡¯ve even met Su Yuerou when I was a kid!"

    "..."

    Gong Qi froze for a moment and nced toward Fu Yihan for help.

    Under the growing tension between the two, Fu Yihan, who had been calmly unbothered, finally raised his head.

    His cold gazended on Qin Chuan.

    "Why are you staring at me like that?" Qin Chuan moved back slightly and said seriously, "I¡¯m just being truthful. You can¡¯t shut me up just because of that, can you?"

    "Truthful?" Fu Yihan sneered. "You¡¯re really idle these days, aren¡¯t you?"

    "Wait, wait!" Qin Chuan hastily grabbed his bag and stood up. "I just remembered, I¡¯ve got something to handle, so I¡¯ll take my leave first."

    "Eh?" Gong Qiughed mockingly. "Running already? Aren¡¯t you still mid-discussion?"

    "You¡¯re just enjoying my misery! Next time, make sure I catch you!"

    Gong Qiughed, unusually delighted. Even Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but let his lips curve up slightly.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan finally cleaned up the kitchen and stepped out.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan approached Fu Yihan with a gentle smile. "I¡¯ve tidied up."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan nodded, setting down his book. "Let¡¯s go."

    She walked up to him, assisting Fu Yihan as they headed for the door together.

    "Sister-inw,e back and visit with big brother next time," Gong Qi said with a grin, trailing them to the doorway.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, opening her mouth to respond but instead nced down to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan gave Gong Qi a sidelong nce but said nothing.

    Their dynamic wasn¡¯t lost on Gong Qi, who chuckled helplessly. "You two are here together, aren¡¯t you? Howe whenever I ask you toe together, there¡¯s hesitation?"

    "Why wouldn¡¯t there be?" Fu Yihan replied coldly. "Every time, someone makes me do the dishes?"

    ".....Such a petty man," Gong Qi chuckled bitterly. "Alright, I get it. I¡¯ll ensure a maid handles the cleaning next time. Today was tough on sister-inw."

    "Oh no!" Su Qingnuan responded cheerfully. "It was just a small effort. The real hard work was you cooking for us!"

    Gong Qi smiled warmly. "See, sister-inw really knows how to show appreciation."

 Chapter 101 Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 101: Chapter 101 Trouble</h4>

    Fu Yihan cast a cold nce at him.

    Gong Qi quickly shut his mouth. "Alright, alright. It¡¯s gettingte; you two should head back."

    Under Gong Qi¡¯s urging, the two of them got into the car.

    Sitting in the car, Su Qingnuan felt for the first time that the journey home didn¡¯t seem so long.

    Fu Yihan was originally focused on his phone when a soft humming sound reached his ears.

    He turned his head slightly and saw Su Qingnuan gazing out of the window, a faint smile on her lips.

    "Feeling happy?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan turned back and smiled. "Not bad, just feels like today brought a lot of good news."

    "Good news?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "What other good news?"

    Su Qingnuan touched her nose and lowered her head, murmuring softly, "It¡¯s about thepany recruitment you mentioned before, Mr. Fu. Xiaoxiao told me today that there¡¯s an announcement about it on the school forum."

    "That..." Fu Yihan gave her a meaningful look, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Actually, there¡¯s another way. You wouldn¡¯t even need to attend an interview to get into thepany."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan turned to him, puzzled.

    "Interested in giving it a try?" Fu Yihan asked, his smile carrying an air of mystery.

    Seeing the unusual expression on his face, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t immediately respond, just felt confused.

    Why is he asking this all of a sudden...

    Earlier, when Fu Yihan had asked her to attend thepany¡¯s interview, Su Qingnuan had chosen not to go.

    Now, with this interview opportunity, why was he suddenly offering her an easy way in?

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly but shook her head firmly. "Thestpetition was my own mistake. I won¡¯t let this chance slip by again. Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Fu¡ªI won¡¯t let you down."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s faint smile disappeared as he curled his lips.

    "I¡¯ve never had expectations of you."

    "...I see."

    The atmosphere turned icy.

    Su Qingnuan stole nces at Fu Yihan from time to time, but his face remained expressionless, even more intimidating than before.

    She quickly pulled her gaze back and shifted her body toward the car door, trying to maintain some distance from him.

    After a long while, the car finally came to a stop.

    Seeing Fu Yihan push open the car door himself, Su Qingnuan hurriedly got out and went to assist him with the wheelchair.

    "I told you to keep an eye on things¡ªthis is how you do it?"

    A furious voice rang out, drawing Su Qingnuan¡¯s attention.

    Beyond the car, near the entrance, Fu Yixing stood with a stern expression, scolding the man in front of him.

    The man wore a slightly disheveled suit, his hair messy and unkempt.

    "Vice President, let me exin, I..."

    "Exin? All you know how to do is exin!" Fu Yixing mmed the documents in his hand against the man¡¯s chest and shouted angrily, "Do you still think there¡¯s time for exnations? Instead of making excuses, why don¡¯t you focus on solving the problem?"

    The man forced a bitter smile and looked at Fu Yixing with pleading eyes. "Vice President, I really don¡¯t have a way out this time. It used to be General Manager Fu who handled this kind of situation. I..."

    "What General Manager Fu? That person is no longer part of thepany. From now on, don¡¯t you dare mention that name in the office!"

    "...Understood."

    Their quarrel was so loud that even standing by the car, everything was heard clearly.

    Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze and turned to look at Fu Yihan.

    Thetter sat calmly in his wheelchair, staring ahead as if he hadn¡¯t heard themotion.

    "Shall we go inside?" Su Qingnuan ventured hesitantly.

    Fu Yihan nodded.

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan started pushing him in that direction.

    The sound of the wheelchair¡¯s wheels grinding against the stone path interrupted the heated dispute nearby.

    "General Manager Fu!" The man in the disheveled suit eximed in excitement upon seeing Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yixing¡¯s expression darkened, and he delivered a heavy kick to the man.

    Caught off guard, the man stumbled to the ground.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s icy gaze shifted from the man on the ground to Fu Yixing as he spoke with a chilly tone. "If you want to brawl, take it somewhere else. Don¡¯t disgrace yourselves at the door."

    Fu Yixing stepped back and replied with a cold smile, "You should stay out of matters that don¡¯t concern you, unless you want trouble."

    Without another nce, Fu Yihan said indifferently, "Let¡¯s go."

    Su Qingnuan quickly pushed his wheelchair forward.

    Once inside, all the lights in the living room were on.

    The old man paced anxiously in front of the sofa.

    "Grandpa." Su Qingnuan came to a halt and greeted sweetly.

    The old man looked over.

    When his gazended on Fu Yihan, it lit up slightly.

    "Yihan!" The old man jogged over and crouched down. "This time, you absolutely must help thepany!"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow indifferently.

    "What? Is thepany going under?"

    "Almost!" The old man pped his thigh and pointed toward the door. "That brat took over a project and got swindled out of thirty million. Thepany¡¯s cash flow was already tight, and now it¡¯s like we¡¯re barely scraping by."

    "Isn¡¯t that a good thing?" Fu Yihan said nonchntly. "It¡¯s the perfect opportunity for the employees to learn how to practice frugality."

    "No, it¡¯s not!" The old man hastily pressed down on the wheelchair, stopping Fu Yihan from moving further inside. "This is bad! If this continues, in two months, we won¡¯t even be able to make payroll!"

    "Oh?" Fu Yihan feigned surprise, looking at the old man. "You mean we can¡¯t even pay sries anymore?"

    "Exactly!" The old man said seriously. "That¡¯s why you absolutely have to help this time. You can¡¯t keep being so indifferent."

    Fu Yihan arched an eyebrow, a faint smile crossing his lips. He spoke with deliberate carelessness, "And what does it have to do with me? Why should I help?"

    "...Because you¡¯re my grandson!" The old man raised his voice angrily. "The Fu family business is my life¡¯s work. As my grandson, are you just going to stand by and watch it crumble?"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, about to speak, but the old man cut him off.

    "I promise you this¡ªonce this crisis is resolved, I won¡¯t bother you anymore. Deal?"

    "You swear?" Fu Yihan asked.

    The old man nodded firmly. "I swear!"

    "Alright then." A rare smile touched Fu Yihan¡¯s lips. "I¡¯ll reluctantly agree to this."

    "Good!" The old man straightened up and waved for the servants. "Go and move all the documents from the study desk into the Eldest Young Master¡¯s room."

    "That fast?" Fu Yihan asked, puzzled. "In such a hurry?"

    "Very much so!" The old man¡¯s eyes were full of resolve. "Tonight, I¡¯ll stay with you until everything¡¯s resolved."

    "Forget it." Fu Yihan pushed the old man aside and sneered. "If you end up in the hospital again tomorrow, it¡¯ll somehow turn into my fault. Just stay put."

    With that, he wheeled himself forward.

    Su Qingnuan hurried to catch up, taking over the wheelchair.

    As they entered the elevator, Su Qingnuan nced back.

    Through the ss, she could clearly see the expectant look on the old man¡¯s face.

    It seemed the situation this time was noughing matter.

 Chapter 102: Nonsensical

    <h4>Chapter 102: Chapter 102: Nonsensical</h4>

    Back in the room, Fu Yihan went to take a shower.

    Su Qingnuan sat on the sofa, and before long, someone came to knock on the door.

    The door opened, and a group of people walked in carrying documents.

    Soon, the table was piled high like a small mountain.

    Su Qingnuan wiped the cold sweat from her forehead and closed the door.

    Fu Yihan came out of the bathroom and saw Su Qingnuan curiously surveying the area around the table.

    "Are you out of things to do?"

    Su Qingnuan turned around and saw Fu Yihan walking out in pajamas. She quickly stood up straight.

    "Mr. Fu, tomorrow is the weekend, you can rest."

    "Weekend?" Fu Yihan paused, pushed his wheelchair to the other side of the table, "Do whatever you want, just don¡¯t bother me here."

    "Okay."

    There was a sphericalmp on the small desk in his room. At the moment, Fu Yihan had only turned on thatmp.

    From the living room, it emitted a warm yellow glow.

    Su Qingnuan tidied up briefly and then went to bed to rest.

    She had a dream.

    In the dream, she became a young apprentice, constantly weaving through the crowd, with everyone trying to catch her and eat her up.

    She kept running, yet the darkness in the dream was relentlessly pursuing her, leaving her no escape.

    Just when Su Qingnuan thought she was about to be grabbed by the hands in the darkness, a string of coughs pulled her out of the dream.

    Groggily sitting up, Su Qingnuan was a bit dazed.

    The coughing sound came from outside. When she went to sleep, she hadn¡¯t shut the door properly, so it was half-open, making the coughing sound particrly clear.

    ncing at the glowing green rm clock, it was already 3 a.m.

    Could it be that Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t slept at all?

    Su Qingnuan closed the door tightly andy back down.

    In the quiet room, only her heavy breathing could be heard.

    Yet in such a peaceful environment, Su Qingnuan found she couldn¡¯t fall asleep.

    With no other choice, she sat up, opened the door quietly, and walked out softly.

    The warm yellow light was still there, and the coughing sound appeared intermittently.

    She had always heard from the old master that Fu Yihan¡¯s health wasn¡¯t that great. If he kept on like this, wouldn¡¯t it lead to trouble?

    Thinking about this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t control her steps and slowly moved towards the doorway.

    She was wearing cotton slippers, walking so lightly and silently.

    Yet even so, at the moment Su Qingnuan approached the doorframe, a voice suddenly came from inside the room.

    "What are you doing up in the middle of the night?"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, cautiously peeking in.

    Fu Yihan was sitting at the desk, his sharp gaze fixed on the direction of the door.

    Making eye contact, Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her gaze.

    "Mr. Fu, it¡¯s already three o¡¯clock..." Su Qingnuan said in a low voice.

    Staring nkly at her for a moment, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze.

    "I know," he said.

    Looking up again, the person had already returned to his work.

    The atmosphere felt a bit awkward.

    Su Qingnuan fiddled with the doorframe and thought for a long time before finally speaking.

    "Are you hungry?"

    The sound of typing on the keyboard stopped, and Fu Yihan looked up.

    Su Qingnuan quickly stood up straight and smiled, "I can make some simple home-cooked dishes, or would you like some porridge?"

    Staring at her for a long time, just as Su Qingnuan was feeling awkward and wanted to retreat, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze.

    "Can you make noodles?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan was startled, then nodded, "I can."

    "Make me a bowl of noodles."

    "Okay!"

    Su Qingnuan turned around lightly and left the room.

    She ran down to the kitchen, found the ingredients, and happily began cooking noodles.

    The process of making noodles wasn¡¯tplicated, but the tricky part was the seasoning.

    In this aspect, Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t particrly good, but it wasn¡¯t bad either.

    It took more than ten minutes to finish cooking the noodles.

    Su Qingnuan carefully carried the noodles upstairs.

    ...

    His eyes blurred, and Fu Yihan rubbed his forehead and looked away.

    Suddenly, the smell of something delicious wafted into his nose, and Fu Yihan looked up.

    Su Qingnuan, illuminated by the light, cautiously walked over holding a bowl of noodles.

    "Mr. Fu, I didn¡¯t add any chili. Please try it and see if it suits your taste."

    She ced the bowl and chopsticks down, looking expectantly at Fu Yihan.

    That bright, sparkling gaze was akin to a puppy looking at something it liked to eat.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan looked quizzically at the person across the table, "Were you just smiling?"

    Fu Yihan was slightly stunned, quickly adjusted his expression, and lowered his head to pick up the chopsticks.

    "No."

    The cold tone, it didn¡¯t seem like an illusion.

    Su Qingnuan scratched her head, thinking helplessly, was it just her imagination earlier?

    Fu Yihan held the chopsticks, eating the noodles unhurriedly.

    Clearly just an ordinary dish, yet in his hands, it took on the feel of high-end Italian cuisine.

    "Is it good?" Su Qingnuan asked expectantly.

    Fu Yihan nced up, casting a cold look at her, "It¡¯s edible."

    "..."

    This was probably a rather politement.

    Su Qingnuan sighed softly, "Is there something missing in the taste? I¡¯ll improve it next time."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, putting down the chopsticks.

    "Are you hoping I stay up again next time?"

    "No..." Su Qingnuan quickly exined, "I meant, next time there¡¯s a chance to cook noodles, not hoping you stay upte!"

    "Hmph!"

    After a cold snort, Fu Yihan¡¯s gazended on Su Qingnuan, scrutinizing her, "Not sleeping in the middle of the night?"

    "Ah..." Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly, "I had a nightmare and woke up."

    "A nightmare?"

    "Mm."

    Looking at her familiar smile, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips turned down slightly.

    "Can¡¯t sleep?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan smiled wryly and nodded, "I¡¯m a light sleeper, once I¡¯m up in the middle of the night, I can¡¯t go back to sleep."

    "Alright." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and handed the documents beside him to Su Qingnuan, "Since you can¡¯t sleep, help me organize these documents."

    ".....Okay."

    Taking the documents, Su Qingnuan sat down across.

    After looking through a few pages, Su Qingnuan raised her head in confusion, looking at the person across.

    Fu Yihan had resumed his work, not looking up.

    "What?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan whispered, "Mr. Fu, these are documents from your ownpany, right?"

    "Mm." Fu Yihan nonchntly said, "Categorize those documents. Such a simple task doesn¡¯t need me to teach you, right?"

    "No need, no need!" Su Qingnuanughed, "I can do it myself."

    "Then do it, stop staring at me."

    ".....Oh."

    Withdrawing her gaze, Su Qingnuan focused more intently on the documents in her hands.

    These documents, while not confidential, were not often seen in otherpanies.

    By entrusting these documents to Su Qingnuan for categorization, it was indirectly a sign of trust from Fu Yihan. In any case, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t let Fu Yihan down.

    Under the dim light, the only sound was the turning of papers.

    At the not-too-big, not-too-small desk, the two people sat with serious expressions focused on the table.

    The gentle sound of rain outside, apanied by the wind, couldn¡¯t breach the quietness of this room.

    The tranquility of the atmosphere permeated the air.

 Chapter 103 Different Weights

    <h4>Chapter 103: Chapter 103 Different Weights</h4>

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t know exactly when she had fallen asleep, but as the tingling sensation in her arm reached her mind, she slowly lifted her head.

    The sight of messy hair in front of her instantly startled Su Qingnuan.

    Someone was here, and they were very close to her.

    She turned her head, and something familiar yet unfamiliar entered her gaze.

    Where was this...?

    She closed her eyes and tried to recall in her mind.

    In the next moment, she opened her eyes again and abruptly sat upright.

    No,st night she had been helping Fu Yihan with paperwork and then...

    And then, she fell asleep?

    Her sudden movement caught the attention of the other person in the room.

    Fu Yihan rubbed his arm and looked up, his gaze carrying a hint of confusion.

    "What are you doing?" Fu Yihan asked sternly.

    "N-Nothing." Su Qingnuan quickly straightened up, her tone serious as she said, "I just remembered I promised Xiaoxiao to handle something today. I¡¯ll be heading out now."

    With that, she turned and started walking toward the door.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly andmanded coldly, "Stop."

    Her footsteps halted. Su Qingnuan turned back and cautiously looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan extended his hand and said, "Hand it over."

    "Uh?" Su Qingnuan looked puzzled, staring nkly at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and stared at her with a meaningful expression.

    "What?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    "ying dumb, are you?" Fu Yihan frowned. "The documents I gave youst night¡ªdid you organize them?"

    "..."

    She really had forgotten about that. Last night, she was so tired she fell straight asleep andpletely forgot about it.

    Now that she thought about it, it seemed she hadn¡¯t finished organizing them.

    "Well..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s voice grew quieter as she sighed helplessly, "I think I didn¡¯t get to finish organizing them."

    "... Didn¡¯t finish?" His brows furrowed even deeper as Fu Yihan said sternly, "You haven¡¯t finished organizing the documents and you¡¯re thinking of going out to have fun? Sit down."

    Obediently, Su Qingnuan sat back down and picked up the documents again.

    "You¡¯re not allowed to leave until you¡¯ve finished organizing everything today."

    The chilling voice rang near her ear, and Su Qingnuan quickly responded, "Understood!"

    Watching Su Qingnuan burying her head in the paperwork, Fu Yihan rolled his wheelchair out of the room.

    He opened the door to the room, and Ah Qi, who had been standing nearby, walked over.

    "Eldest Young Master."

    "Hmm." With calm eyes fixed on Ah Qi, Fu Yihan slightly tilted his chin. "Where¡¯s the Old Master?"

    "He¡¯s in the study."

    "Push me over there."

    Ah Qi pushed Fu Yihan over to the study door and stopped.

    "Go to the kitchen and bring some food for the Young Madam."

    "Understood."

    Watching Ah Qi head downstairs, Fu Yihan reached out and pushed open the door to the study.

    ...

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The sudden knocking on the door interrupted Su Qingnuan¡¯s thoughts.

    Su Qingnuan turned around and looked at the visitor, asking in confusion, "Ah Qi, why are you here?"

    "Young Madam, Eldest Young Master asked me to bring you some food."

    Fu Yihan sent it?

    Su Qingnuan quickly stood up, took the breakfast from Ah Qi¡¯s hands, and smiled. "Thank you, Ah Qi."

    "You¡¯re wee."

    Ah Qi turned and walked out the door.

    After finishing her breakfast simply, Su Qingnuan spent two hours organizing the remaining documents.

    Satisfied, she stepped out of the room only to find the house was already empty, with hardly any servants in sight.

    "Ah Qi?" At the main door, Su Qingnuan spotted Ah Qi and trotted over, asking, "Is Mr. Fu not home?"

    Ah Qi turned and looked at Su Qingnuan, answering softly, "Eldest Young Master and the Old Master went to thepany."

    Remembering what the Old Master had saidst night, it seemed they were truly in a rush, heading to thepany first thing in the morning.

    "Young Madam, Eldest Young Master said that if you finish organizing the documents, you¡¯re free to go out for a stroll."

    "Alright." Su Qingnuan nodded and headed toward the garden.

    As the weather grew colder, the nts in the garden had be bare and lifeless.

    Su Qingnuan walked around the courtyard but found nothing particrly interesting, so she decided to turn back.

    Just as she reached the door, she saw a crowd gathering at the entrance.

    "Guess what this is?"

    The person standing at the outermost row turned their head, and upon seeing Su Qingnuan, smiled and said, "Young Madam, you might not know this, but Second Young Master brought his girlfriend home."

    "Second Young Master? Girlfriend?"

    Su Qingnuan stood on tiptoe to look inside, but she couldn¡¯t see anything.

    Wasn¡¯t Fu Yixing always the type to wander among flowers without settling for one?

    "I heard she¡¯s a well-mannered youngdy. Let¡¯s see if Second Young Master will cherish her this time."

    "You don¡¯t say. Looking at her family background, I bet Second Young Master won¡¯t let her slip away easily."

    "Really? Speaking of which..."

    The servants chatted animatedly, creating quite a lively atmosphere.

    Seeing that she couldn¡¯t squeeze in, Su Qingnuan chose to give up and stood nearby.

    "What¡¯s all thismotion?" The butler emerged from inside, frowning at the crowd outside. "If others saw this, they¡¯d think the Fu familycks discipline! Get back to your tasks!"

    "Butler, what¡¯s Second Young Master¡¯s girlfriend¡¯s name?"

    The butler¡¯s expression stiffened, and he snapped angrily, "Is that something for you to inquire about? Move along!"

    The servants dispersed, revealing Su Qingnuan standing behind them.

    The butler paused briefly, then approached her.

    "Young Madam, why are you standing outside?"

    ncing at him, Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "I heard Second Young Master brought his girlfriend home?"

    "Yes, she¡¯s inside! The Old Master and Eldest Young Master should be back shortly as well."

    "Alright." Su Qingnuan nodded and hesitated for a moment. Under the butler¡¯s gloating gaze, she headed inside.

    After taking a few steps, she heard Fu Yixing¡¯s gentle voice from within.

    "Hungry?"

    "Not at all," a woman¡¯s alluring voice replied, as half her body leaned against Fu Yixing¡¯s. "Today is really unfortunate; no one from your family is home."

    "That¡¯s alright." Fu Yixing smiled faintly. "I¡¯ve already notified them; they should be back soon."

    "Really?" The woman sat upright, pping her hands excitedly. "That¡¯s great! I thought I wouldn¡¯t get to meet your family today."

    "How could that be? Since I invited you over, you¡¯re definitely meeting them."

    "That¡¯s good."

    The woman tilted her body again, leaning back against Fu Yixing.

    Fu Yixing smirked slightly and lifted his head to nce toward the doorway.

    Coincidentally, his gazended right on Su Qingnuan¡¯s.

    "Oh!" Fu Yixing helped the woman stand up. "Isn¡¯t this my sister-inw?"

    The woman turned her head, revealing her stunningly beautiful face.

    "Man¡¯er, let me introduce you. This is my sister-inw, Su Yuerou."

    Qin Man stood up, smiled, and extended her hand. "Hello, Sister-inw. I¡¯m Qin Man."

    "Hello." Su Qingnuan reluctantly extended her hand, gently shaking Qin Man¡¯s palm. "I was just taking a walk nearby and heard Second Young Master brought his girlfriend home, so I hurried back."

    She withdrew her hand and smiled faintly. "I didn¡¯t expect Second Young Master¡¯s girlfriend to be so beautiful; it makes the rest of us feel quite inferior."

    Seeing her sincerity, Qin Man shyly covered her mouth, her eyes curving into crescents from her smile.

    "Sister-inw, don¡¯t say that! Otherwise, I¡¯ll get conceited."

 Chapter 104: Girlfriend

    <h4>Chapter 104: Chapter 104: Girlfriend</h4>

    "So beautiful, it¡¯s only natural to be proud."

    Su Qingnuan smiled and walked to the sofa opposite, sitting down.

    Her gaze swept across the table, not seeing any tea, she couldn¡¯t help but frown: "What¡¯s going on? We have guests at home, why isn¡¯t there any tea served?"

    "No need, sister-inw!" Qin Man said with a smile: "I don¡¯t like tea, Yixing has already sent someone to get juice for me."

    "I see..." Su Qingnuan nodded knowingly, smiling lightly: "Alright then, you two sit for a while, I¡¯ll go check in the kitchen."

    "Big sister-inw, there¡¯s a maid in the kitchen, no need for you to join the hustle, why not stay and chat with Man¡¯er." Fu Yixing stopped Su Qingnuan with a sarcastic tone, his gaze quite challenging.

    "Yes, big sister-inw!" Qin Man reached out and held onto Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm, "I heard from Yixing that you¡¯re about the same age as me. I was worried about not knowing anyone here and feeling shy, but now with you here, I feel more at ease."

    "Is that so..." Su Qingnuan shot a stiff nce at the person beside her, smiling lightly: "Actually, I think it¡¯s better not to..."

    "Man¡¯er." Fu Yixing suddenly spoke up, interrupting Su Qingnuan, "Stay here with big sister-inw for a bit, I¡¯m going upstairs to handle some documents."

    "Okay, go ahead."

    Watching Fu Yixing run upstairs, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt a bit regretful. Why did shee in? Wouldn¡¯t it have been better to stay outside a while longer?

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan felt both angry and helpless but didn¡¯t know what to say.

    "Sister-inw, sit down!"

    There was still the clingy young woman beside her, so even if Su Qingnuan wanted to leave, she couldn¡¯t.

    Without Fu Yixing around, Su Qingnuan managed to deal with Qin Man with difficulty.

    Qin Man had a lively personality, always managing toe up with some strange questions to ask Su Qingnuan, mostly about the Fu family.

    Regarding the Fu family, Su Qingnuan knew very little, barely managing to answer a few sentences before being out of answers.

    After half an hour, hearing movement at the main door, Su Qingnuan excitedly stood up.

    A Qi was pushing Fu Yihan into the room, looking up to meet Su Qingnuan¡¯s pleading gaze.

    "Yihan!" Su Qingnuan excitedly walked to the door, "You¡¯re back!"

    Yihan?

    Fu Yihan slightly raised an eyebrow, his gaze passing through Su Qingnuan andnding on the person following her.

    "Who is this?"

    Su Qingnuan quickly pulled Qin Man over, gritting her teeth as she introduced: "This is Qin Man, the second young master¡¯s girlfriend."

    "Qin Man?" Fu Yihan looked at her with a half-smile, asking, "Is your grandfather Qin Shuwen?"

    "Yes!" Qin Man squinted her eyes with a smile, "Does Mr. Fu know my grandfather too?"

    "I¡¯ve met him, but I¡¯m not familiar."

    Fu Yihan pushed himself in the wheelchair into the room. Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly went over and held the handle.

    "Let me do it."

    He nced back at her, and Fu Yihan withdrew his hand.

    "Where¡¯s Fu Yixing?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan nced upstairs, lowering her voice, "He said he has to deal with some documents, he¡¯s upstairs."

    "Handle documents?" Fu Yihan sneered, looking at A Qi, "Go, call him down."

    A Qi sprinted upstairs, while Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan to sit by the sofa.

    After a while, someone else came in.

    The thumping sound of a cane echoed through the roof.

    "Now, this is good, I can rx," the old man said as he walked, his gaze pausing when it fell upon Qin Man, who was sitting on the sofa.

    "Who is this?"

    Su Qingnuan stood up, smiling: "This is the second young master¡¯s girlfriend, Qin Man."

    "Qin Man?" The old man had the exact same expression as Fu Yihan, a mix of surprise and a hint of a smile.

    "Yes." Qin Man stood up, stretching out her hand, her tone a bit nervous, "Hello, Grandpa, my name is Qin Man."

    "Ah, hello." The old man extended his hand for a light handshake with Qin Man, his gaze wandering, "Where¡¯s the second young master? Why isn¡¯t he here?"

    "The second young master is upstairs, A Qi went to call him." Su Qingnuan promptly exined.

    "I see..." The old man nced at Qin Man, then looked upstairs, smiling as he sat down, "Then we¡¯ll wait together."

    As soon as he spoke, footsteps were heard from the stairs.

    Everyone turned to look.

    Fu Yixing sprinted down, beaming.

    "Grandpa, you¡¯ve finally returned."

    The old man nodded, looking at him with a mix of amusement and seriousness: "Yes, we¡¯re back. Do you have something to tell us?"

    Fu Yixing pointed at Qin Man, smiling proudly: "This is Qin Man, my girlfriend. We n to get married."

    "Married?" The old man frowned, speaking sternly: "How long have you known each other and now you¡¯re nning to get married?"

    "Half a month."

    "Half a month?" The old man frowned, disapprovingly looking at them, "I don¡¯t oppose you getting married, but Grandpa suggests you extend the duration of your rtionship, get to know each other well..."

    "Grandpa!" Fu Yixing interrupted the old man, frowning, "Grandpa, don¡¯t you want us to be happy?"

    "It¡¯s not about not wanting you to be happy, Grandpa just wants you to be happy, that¡¯s why I¡¯m advising you not to be impulsive, you still can..."

    "What about Big Brother?" Fu Yixing pointed at Fu Yihan, who was nearby, speaking sarcastically: "Before Big Brother and Sister-inw got married, they hadn¡¯t even met, let alone developed feelings."

    The old man¡¯s brows furrowed tightly, helplessly saying: "Your big brother¡¯s situation is different; how can youpare yourself to him?"

    "There¡¯s no difference." Fu Yixing wrapped his arm around Qin Man¡¯s shoulder, smiling: "Anyway, Man¡¯er and I have already decided to get married, hoping Grandpa can bless us rather than criticize us."

    With that, Fu Yixing cupped Qin Man¡¯s cheeks and gave her a kiss.

    Qin Man snapped out of it, her cheeks turning red as she shyly lowered her head.

    "Yes, Grandpa! You have to bless us!" Qin Man echoed.

    Seeing all this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but look at Qin Man with a sympathetic gaze.

    The old man silently watched the two, who clung to each other as if, as Fu Yixing said, they truly had touched each other¡¯s hearts.

    "Let¡¯s do this," the old man stood up, speaking in a deep voice: "You want to get married, that¡¯s fine, but before that, both sides¡¯ parents need to meet, and also..."

    The old man listed a series of things that needed to be prepared before the marriage, seemingly trying to make things a bit difficult for the pair.

    However, Fu Yixing nodded without hesitation: "Alright!"

    Fu Elder: "..."

    As a new member about to join the Fu family, Qin Man stayed for dinner at home, then Fu Yixing sent her out.

    After they left, the old man called Fu Yixing, then sat upright, quietly waiting for Fu Yixing¡¯s return.

    After half an hour, Fu Yixing came back.

    Seeing the old man sitting on the sofa, along with Fu Yihan and Su Qingnuan not far away, the smile at the corner of Fu Yixing¡¯s mouth disappeared.

    "Looks like I¡¯m being judged?"

    This chapter is updated by freew(e)bnovel.(c)om

 Chapter 105: Everyoneéˆ¥æªš Thing

    <h4>Chapter 105: Chapter 105: Everyone¡¯s Thing</h4>

    "Sit down." The old man pointed to the seat across from him, looking at Fu Yihan with a serious expression.

    Fu Yihan nodded and sat downzily, grabbing the sofa cushion with both hands. He looked at them with a half-smile. "Alright, go ahead, what do you want to ask me?"

    "Qin Man is Qin Shuwen¡¯s daughter?" the old man asked.

    "Yes."

    The old man¡¯s brows gradually furrowed. "Do you have any ulterior motives for marrying her?"

    "What ulterior motives could I possibly have?" Fu Yihan chuckled. "Grandpa, didn¡¯t you always say you wanted the project under Qin Shuwen¡¯s management? Once we get married, that project will be ours, perfectly essible for us to run. Isn¡¯t that a cause for celebration?"

    "..."

    The old man stared at Fu Yihan with aplex expression, his gaze bing unfamiliar, almost estranged.

    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Fu Yihan straightened up, gripping his hands tightly. "Did I do something wrong? Once I marry her, the crisis ourpany is facing will be resolved, won¡¯t it?"

    The old man silently withdrew his gaze, his voice low as he muttered, "The problems thepany is facing have already been resolved."

    Fu Yihan was stunned for a moment, looking at the old man with confusion. "What do you mean?"

    "Exactly what it sounds like." The old man rubbed his forehead and sat down. "Abandon your filthy ns. Qin Shuwen isn¡¯t someone you want to offend. If he finds out that you married his daughter just for a project, who knows what kind of revenge he¡¯d take on you."

    "Resolved?" Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze shifted to Fu Jiang. "It¡¯s you again, isn¡¯t it? It was you who stepped in and resolved it, wasn¡¯t it?"

    Fu Jiang raised an eyebrow, his expression remaining indifferent.

    "It¡¯s always you!" Fu Yihan suddenly stood up and angrily shoved everything off the table.

    "Crash¡ª¡ª"

    The chaotic sound of things falling to the floor rang out, sharp and discordant.

    The old man mmed the table with his hand. "What are you doing?!"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes reddened as he red at the old man, his scarlet gaze unwavering. "Grandpa, was it you who sent him to handle it? Why is it always him? Didn¡¯t you promise me that this time you¡¯d let me handle it on my own?"

    "You handle it on your own?" The old man¡¯s eyes and cheeks flushed with anger. "Do you see what time it is now? We can¡¯t wait any longer for you to fix things¡ªif thepany keeps going like this, you¡¯ll run it into the ground!"

    "I *can* fix it myself!" Fu Yihan gritted his teeth, ring at him. "Once I marry Qin Man, all these problems will be resolved!"

    "You¡¯re still dreaming!"

    The old man turned and grabbed a throw pillow from the sofa, hurling it toward Fu Yihan¡¯s head.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t dodge, and the pillownded squarely on him.

    "How many times have I told you? Stop with these shady tactics! Instead of thinking about genuinely solving the problems, you¡¯re always finding shortcuts to scrape by! How do you expect to manage thepany like this?"

    "Fine!" Fu Yihan sneered, hisughter colder than ice. "I can¡¯t manage thepany, so why don¡¯t you let that cripple take over?"

    "Fu Yihan!"

    The noisy room suddenly fell silent.

    Fu Yihan red venomously at the old man. The old man¡¯s eyes burned with anger, but there was also a hint of helplessness mixed within.

    "He¡¯s your brother!" the old man exhaled heavily, his tone charged with emotion.

    Fu Yihan snorted disdainfully. "I refuse to acknowledge him."

    "You!....."

    Words cut off as the old man suddenly clutched at his chest, his breath faltering as he stared at Fu Yihan with a pained, suffocating expression, slowly sinking into his chair.

    "Grandpa!" Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Jiang closer and quickly supported the old man¡¯s shoulders. She turned her head urgently.

    Fu Yihan froze in ce, standing motionless.

    "What are you standing there for?" Fu Jiang said coldly. "Call an ambnce right now!"

    The old man convulsed slightly before closing his eyes.

    "Grandpa!"

    ....

    In a frantic rush, they hurried the old man to the hospital, where the doctors immediately sent him into the emergency room.

    Staring at the red-lit door of the operation room, Fu Jiang tightly gripped the handle.

    His face was pale, his brows furrowed deeply. The aura around him was cold, warning others to stay away.

    Su Qingnuan stood quietly beside him, not daring to say a word.

    No one knew how much time had passed when a series of hurried footsteps echoed down the corridor.

    The group turned their heads, only to see a man in a ck suit running toward them.

    "What happened? What¡¯s wrong with your grandfather?" The man grabbed Fu Jiang¡¯s hand in agitation, his voice urgent.

    Fu Jiang gave him a nce and turned his face away.

    Su Qingnuan had only met this man once before but had a vivid impression of him.

    "Dad." Su Qingnuan stood up and said softly, "Grandpa is still in the operating room."

    "Still inside?" The man slumped into a seat, rubbing his forehead nervously. "What happened? Grandpa¡¯s health was fine¡ªhow did he suddenly copse?"

    "....."

    No one spoke.

    Seeing their silence, the man turned toward Fu Yihan.

    "You tell me¡ªwhat¡¯s going on?"

    Fu Yihan nced at Fu Jiang and hesitated before answering haltingly, "We were just talking to Grandfather about some work matters. He couldn¡¯t handle the stress, and then he fainted."

    "Work matters?" The man frowned and looked at Fu Jiang. "Aren¡¯t you handling thepany¡¯s affairs? What¡¯s the issue?"

    Fu Jiang¡¯s cold gaze swept over him as he frowned lightly. "When was thest time you came home?"

    "....." The man was momentarily stunned, then shook his head. "I don¡¯t remember."

    Fu Jiang sneered. "Last time you came home, thepany¡¯s matters were already handed over to Fu Yihan. What¡¯s wrong? Bing senile before you even grow old?"

    "...Nonsense!" The man red at Fu Jiang, then turned back to Fu Yihan with a more serious tone. "What¡¯s going on?"

    Fu Yihan stammered, unable to provide a clear answer, avoiding the question entirely.

    Suddenly, the operating room door opened.

    The man rushed over without waiting for an answer.

    "Doctor, how is my father?"

    "Mr. Fu, it¡¯s nothing major," the doctor said with a faint smile. "The old gentleman¡¯s blood and cholesterol levels are a bit high, and his blood pressure is also prone to spiking. You must ensure that he stays rxed at home. As his children, you need to refrain from agitating him."

    "Yes, yes, of course!" The man nodded hurriedly,ughing helplessly. "I¡¯ve been away on business tripstely, and the two young ones at home don¡¯t know how to behave."

    After nodding, the doctor gave a few more words of advice and walked away.

    Before long, the old man was wheeled out.

    Hisplexion hadn¡¯t changed much, but his furrowed brows revealed his difort.

    After arranging for the old man to be settled in a hospital room with a caregiver, the man finally brought his two sons home.

    He sat down on the living room sofa, arms crossed, his gaze sharp andposed as he looked at the two brothers.

    "Tell me, what exactly happened?"

    Fu Jiang¡¯s icy demeanor remained unshaken, clearly unwilling to say anything.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yihan lowered his head, enduring the weight of silence.

    Frustrated, the man turned his attention to Su Qingnuan.

    "Qingnuan," the man said with a gentle smile, "you¡¯ve always been a good, obedient girl. Tell me, what really happened."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan and gave a bitter smile. "Dad, actually, I....."

    "If you want the truth, ask the person responsible," Fu Jiang interjected coldly. "Why ask her?"

    "

 Chapter 106: The Insider

    <h4>Chapter 106: Chapter 106: The Insider</h4>

    Fu Jiang tilted his head, staring at Fu Yihan: "I was just asking a couple of questions. Is that not allowed?"

    "No," Fu Yihan said emphatically, "If you want to ask, go ask Fu Yixing. This has nothing to do with us."

    "..."

    The gaze that was fixed on Fu Yihan shifted, directing towards Fu Yixing.

    Fu Yixing lowered his head, his tone apologetic: "I¡¯m sorry, Father, it¡¯s my fault."

    "What did you do to make your grandpa so angry?"

    Fu Yixing mumbled in response: "Actually, I didn¡¯t do much. I just told Grandpa that I was getting married, and then he...."

    "Just because of this?" Fu Jiang frowned, "Your grandpa isn¡¯t the kind who gets upset for no reason. If you said you were getting married, why would he be angry? He¡¯d be thrilled!"

    "It¡¯s... just because of this."

    Fu Jiang rubbed his forehead, helplessly asked: "Whose family¡¯s daughter are you marrying?"

    "...Qin Shuwen¡¯s daughter, Qin Man."

    "...Who?" Fu Jiang looked up in surprise and uncertainty at Fu Yixing.

    "Qin Man."

    "You!" Fu Jiang stood up abruptly, angrily saying, "No wonder your grandpa was so upset. What are you thinking, you little brat? Instead of focusing on proper things, you insist on these crooked paths!"

    "How is it a crooked path?" Fu Yixing looked at Fu Jiang with dissatisfaction, "I¡¯m only getting married, why does everyone in the family disapprove? When my older brother got married, you didn¡¯t say anything!"

    "...Your older brother¡¯s situation is different from yours, isn¡¯t it?" Fu Jiang nced at Fu Yihan seated in the distance, who was calmly detached from the situation.

    "Enough!" Fu Jiang stood up and said seriously, "This matter is not to be mentioned again, do you hear me?"

    "Dad!" Fu Yixing anxiously moved closer to Fu Jiang and said in a low voice, "What about my marriage? I¡¯ve already made arrangements with Man¡¯er."

    "Marriage! What marriage! You must be out of your mind!"

    Shoving Fu Yixing away, Fu Jiang said with restrained anger, "Get rid of those unnecessary thoughts at once. This matter is not to be mentioned again."

    Having said that, Fu Jiang turned around and went upstairs.

    Watching his angry retreating figure, Fu Yixing lowered his head in contemtion.

    Considering how many benefits woulde after his marriage, why wouldn¡¯t they agree to it?

    "Let¡¯s go." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and said softly.

    "Mm."

    Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan, and the two entered the elevator.

    Fu Yihan looked ahead, seemingly lost in thought, while Su Qingnuan continued to observe his expression.

    "Why are you looking at me?"

    The person didn¡¯t turn his head but suddenly asked this.

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan hastily looked away, muttering, "No, I just wanted to thank you."

    "Thank me?" Fu Yihan turned his head, a hint of confusion in his eyes, "Thank me for what?"

    "Just now... it was thanks to you that Dad didn¡¯t make things difficult for me."

    Seeing her embarrassed expression, Fu Yihan curled his lips indifferently, "You¡¯re overthinking it. I just didn¡¯t want you babbling and inviting unnecessary trouble."

    "..."

    Though the words weren¡¯t pleasant, since he had helped her, there was no need to quibble over them.

    Swallowing her words, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan back to the room.

    ...

    On the first day, Su Qingnuan took leave from school to apany Fu Yihan in discharging Grandpa from the hospital.

    When they arrived, Grandpa was lying in bed, groaning and wailing loudly enough for everyone in the ward to hear his cries.

    When the two walked in, the cries stopped.

    Fu Yihan looked at the quietly lying old man and smirked, "Doesn¡¯t it hurt anymore, Grandpa?"

    "No, it doesn¡¯t." Grandpa sat up, saying seriously, "Hurry and help me pack. Let¡¯s go home."

    "No," Fu Yihan calmly interrupted Grandpa¡¯s thought, stating earnestly, "We have to wait for the doctor to check and confirm you¡¯re okay before we can be discharged."

    "No need!" Grandpa leaned closer excitedly, lowering his voice, "There¡¯s nothing to check. I¡¯m sure I¡¯m fine myself, isn¡¯t that enough?"

    "No."

    "Fu Yihan! Doesn¡¯t anything I say matter anymore?"

    "No."

    "....."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s insistence, Grandpapleted the full check-up and was then given permission by the doctor to leave.

    Grandpa sat in the car, looking around, frowning, "Where¡¯s that brat Fu Yixing?"

    "Afraid he might make you so angry that you¡¯d end up back in the hospital, he¡¯s waiting at home." Fu Yihan "considerately" exined.

    Grandpa red at him with a coldugh, "You shouldn¡¯t act like you¡¯re better than your brother. Neither of you are saints."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "I¡¯ve never imed to be a saint. It¡¯s you who has thought too highly of me."

    "....."

    Grandpa, being rebutted, fell silent, and the car became quiet.

    The car slowly drove down the road, Grandpa looking around, finally his gaze settled on Su Qingnuan.

    "Doesn¡¯t Yue Rou have ss today?"

    Su Qingnuan turned her head, smiling, "Grandpa, I took leave from school today."

    "A filial child," Grandpa said with a satisfied smile, "Better than my two grandsons."

    Su Qingnuan gave an awkward smile, sneaking a nce at Fu Yihan.

    Thetter watched her with a half-smile, eyes carrying a coldness.

    Quickly averting her gaze, Su Qingnuan tried to minimize her presence.

    But Grandpa, finally finding someone to talk to, naturally wouldn¡¯t let go of Su Qingnuan, chatting with her for quite a while.

    If looks could kill, Su Qingnuan thought she might have died several times.

    When they reached home, Su Qingnuan eagerly got out of the car.

    Taking in the fresh air outside, Su Qingnuan breathed a sigh of relief.

    Only when Fu Yihan got out did Su Qingnuan go over to push him inside.

    "Now you¡¯re being clever, learning to please the elder?"

    A sarcastic voice rang out, leaving Su Qingnuan puzzled as she looked at Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu?"

    "What? Didn¡¯t you hear what I said?" Fu Yihan asked coldly.

    Su Qingnuanughed helplessly, "No, I just thought you said it wrong. If I were to please anyone, it would be you, not the elder. After all, it¡¯s you who is directly connected to my interests, isn¡¯t it?"

    The mocking smile froze, and Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan, her face full of smiles, his gaze deepened.

    "Does Mr. Fu not agree with what I said?" Su Qingnuan asked again.

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan said softly, "Neither agreeing nor disagreeing."

    So he tacitly agreed?

    Su Qingnuan smiled even more, leaning down close to Fu Yihan¡¯s ear, whispering, "Can Mr. Fu tell me what you like? Or what you enjoy doing? I can cater to your preferences to please you."

    Her proximity was close, her warm breath spraying near Fu Yihan¡¯s ear,

    This feeling wasn¡¯t unfamiliar. The women lingering around him loved to provoke him in this way.

    However, Fu Yihan had always remained indifferent, yet for some reason, as he felt the warm breath, he suddenly sensed his chest was slightly itching.

 Chapter 107 Interview Opportunity

    <h4>Chapter 107: Chapter 107 Interview Opportunity</h4>

    "Mr. Fu?" Seeing Fu Yihan unresponsive, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but remind him, "Are you tired?"

    Snapping back to reality, Fu Yihan red at her, his brow slightly furrowed. "What nonsense are you talking about? I was just thinking about something else."

    "Oh... I see." Su Qingnuan leaned forward, getting closer. "Mr. Fu, have you made up your mind? About your preferences, and..."

    "No." Fu Yihan decisively interrupted her, frowning. "Why do you spend every day thinking about irrelevant things? Rather than that, you should read more. Are you confident about ourpany¡¯s interview?"

    "Huh?" The abrupt change in topic caught Su Qingnuan off guard.

    "If you¡¯re not prepared, why aren¡¯t you hurrying to get ready? Do you think you have plenty of time left?"

    "... Got it."

    She initially approached out of curiosity, but now there was no need for further probing, as she¡¯d been directly sent away.

    Sighing helplessly, Su Qingnuan went upstairs.

    ...

    That day, who knows what the old man said to Fu Yixing. Anyway, Fu Yixing stopped mentioning the matter of marriage, but the way he looked at Fu Yihan grew increasingly hostile.

    Yet Fu Yihan ignored his looks every day, acting as if he hadn¡¯t noticed a thing.

    Even someone as easygoing as Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but admire Fu Yihan.

    The interview date was drawing closer, but oddly, Su Qingnuan¡¯s nervousness seemed to gradually subside.

    On the day of the interview, she and Gu Xiaoxiao carpooled to thepany.

    Adjusting her clothes, Gu Xiaoxiao nced at the person beside her and said curiously, "Why don¡¯t you look nervous at all?"

    "Nervous?" Su Qingnuan tugged at the hem of her shirt and forced a smile. "I am nervous."

    "Really nervous?" Carefully studying Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression, Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head. "You don¡¯t look it."

    "So, just because I don¡¯t seem nervous to you, I¡¯m not?" Su Qingnuan wiped her forehead and then held her hand out to Gu Xiaoxiao. "Look, it¡¯s sweaty."

    "..."

    Confirming Su Qingnuan¡¯s nervousness only made Gu Xiaoxiao increasingly anxious. Like someone with ADHD, she twisted and turned, making Su Qingnuan feel a little irritable.

    Finally, the car stopped, and Gu Xiaoxiao got out, waving cheerfully at A Qi. "Thank you, A Qi!"

    "Young madam, I¡¯ll pick you upter at school."

    "Alright."

    After bidding farewell to A Qi, the two looked up at the towering building. Gu Xiaoxiao eximed, "No wonder it¡¯s one of the top tenpanies."

    Gently nudging Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s back, Su Qingnuan whispered, "Hurry up¡ªstop marveling. We¡¯ll lose our spot otherwise."

    Today¡¯s interview had a limit¡ªonly the first twenty participants were allowed in, which meant aside from ability and luck, you also had to be fast.

    Because of this, Su Qingnuan had specifically asked A Qi to drive them here.

    Even though they had arrived half an hour early, they found a long line already formed at thepany gate.

    "Are you all here for the interview?" Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed someone and tentatively asked.

    The person rolled their eyes at her and pulled away. "Of course I¡¯m here for the interview. Why else would I wait so long out here?"

    "..."

    Looking at the seemingly endless line ahead, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed in frustration. "This line is way too long!"

    "...Yes, it is." Su Qingnuan frowned, tiptoeing to peer ahead. "Even though we arrived half an hour early, why are there so many people...?"

    "You only came half an hour early? Some folks got here two hours ago¡ªthey¡¯re already inside waiting."

    "Two...two hours?" Su Qingnuan was stunned. "Don¡¯t they need to eat lunch? The interview doesn¡¯t start until 2 PM!"

    "What¡¯s more important, work or lunch? Of course, it¡¯s securing an interview spot!"

    "..."

    Clearly, Su Qingnuan and her group hadn¡¯t put in enough effort.

    Leaning against the door frame in defeat, Su Qingnuan sighed, "Looks like we don¡¯t stand a chance today."

    "Don¡¯t worry!" Gu Xiaoxiao patted Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder with an optimistic smile. "We still have tomorrow! Tomorrow, we¡¯ll definitely make it!"

    "What do you mean tomorrow?" Nearby, someone who couldn¡¯t stand idle chimed in, "They already announced the new rule¡ªit¡¯s just today."

    "What?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes widened, staring at the person. "When did it change?"

    "Just yesterday¡ªyou can check for yourself."

    Quickly pulling out her phone, Gu Xiaoxiao visited the official website. Sure enough, a notice about the change of date was posted.

    Both of them had focused entirely on preparing their interview materials and forgot to check for updates regrly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao looked at Su Qingnuan miserably. "Qingnuan, what do we do now?"

    With just one interview day, it made sense so many people had shown up...

    "We wait." Su Qingnuan pressed down on Gu Xiaoxiao, squatting. "Since the date was changed, the number of people will inevitably increase. We might still have a chance."

    Looking at the seemingly endless line ahead, Gu Xiaoxiao asked reluctantly, "Do you really think we still have a chance? It doesn¡¯t look promising..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart was pounding too, but havinge this far, she didn¡¯t want to leave empty-handed.

    Resolving herself, Su Qingnuan squatted down and waited quietly.

    As more people arrived, the line grew longer and longer.

    When 2 o¡¯clock struck, the rm went off, and finally, the staff appeared.

    At 2:15, quite a few people began walking out from inside.

    "That fast?" Gu Xiaoxiao stood up, curiously peering inside.

    A group of people soon exited, their faces looking grim.

    "Did they fail?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan slightly shook her head and pressed down on Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s head. "Don¡¯t talk."

    As more people exited, they began moving forward.

    After over a hundred people left, suddenly the line stopped ahead.

    "Who is Su Qingnuan?" A loud voice suddenly echoed through the hall.

    Su Qingnuan froze. Everyone turned their heads, searching around.

    Hunching her shoulders, Su Qingnuan slowly raised her hand and called out, "That¡¯s me."

    The staff in a ck suit walked up to Su Qingnuan, ncing behind her.

    "Starting from here, count forty people backward. All of you have secured interview spots."

    "..."

    The atmosphere froze for a moment, quickly followed by cheers erupting.

    "What? I didn¡¯t mishear, right? I made it in!"

    "Holy crap! This is so lucky!"

    "Oh my God! I¡¯d lost all hope, but somehow, I got in for the interview!"

    "Qingnuan, Qingnuan! We¡¯re in for the interview!"

    Shen Zhiliu pushed away the wildly shaking Gu Xiaoxiao and pinched her own cheeks in disbelief. "Am I dreaming?"

    "No! You¡¯re not dreaming, and neither am I!" Grasping Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand, she whispered, "I don¡¯t know why, but we all made it in for the interview!"

    "We made it in!" Clutching her documents tightly, Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyshes trembled. "We didn¡¯t miss it!"

 Chapter 108 The Ruthless Interviewer

    <h4>Chapter 108: Chapter 108 The Ruthless Interviewer</h4>

    Starting with Su Qingnuan, a total of five people entered the first round of interviews.

    They were given ten minutes to prepare, and afterward, the five of them entered the interview room together.

    In the spacious and luxurious room sat five interviewers with very distinct styles.

    Su Qingnuan took the first seat, followed by the others.

    The interviewer sitting in the middle spoke up, his face kind and full of smiles: "Now, let¡¯s have everyone introduce themselves."

    Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and smiled, "Hello, esteemed interviewers, I am..."

    After the brief self-introductions, the process moved to product concept and creation.

    Earlier, in the preparation room, the staff had presented some proposals to them.

    Su Qingnuan already had ideas in her mind, so when the interviewers asked for an exnation of product concepts and creation, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t panic. She simply went over her thoughts once in her head before logically expressing her ideas.

    She was articte, her concept was very innovative, and her speech was clear.

    She delivered her ideas in full, then respectfully bowed before sitting down.

    The interviewers kept their heads down, making their reactions indiscernible.

    Su Qingnuan took a deep breath, feeling slightly anxious.

    "Alright, next, let¡¯s have the second candidate share your thoughts with us....."

    One by one, all five candidatespleted their presentations, but it was difficult to read the interviewers¡¯ expressions.

    Neither satisfaction nor displeasure was apparent, leaving uncertainty about the results.

    Leaving the interview room, Su Qingnuan looked down and discovered her palms were already sweaty.

    "Qingnuan, how did it go?" asked Gu Xiaoxiao, who had swapped positions with someone for fear of the first round. She was now entering in the third round.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan expressionless, Gu Xiaoxiao asked worriedly, "Did it not go well?"

    "No," Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly, "I¡¯m just a little nervous."

    "It¡¯s okay," Gu Xiaoxiao hugged Su Qingnuan and smiled warmly, "If you pass, you pass. Just sit tight and wait for the results, and wait for me toe out too."

    "Alright, you go in then."

    Su Qingnuan sat down on a wooden chair¡ªthe cool touch easing some of her nervousness.

    Forty people in total, divided over eight rounds¡ªeverything would be concluded in under three hours.

    The nerve-wracking part wasn¡¯t the interviews themselves; it was the waiting outside for the results.

    Many people were already too restless to sit still and began pacing around quickly.

    Su Qingnuan firmly grasped Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand, holding on tightly.

    Feeling the strength of her grip, Gu Xiaoxiao gently patted the back of her hand and smiled softly: "It¡¯s alright. Trust me, you¡¯ll definitely pass."

    In Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s unwavering gaze, Su Qingnuan found a glimmer of confidence.

    "Mm." Su Qingnuan nodded emphatically, unsure if she was giving herself or Gu Xiaoxiao reassurance.

    The interviewers came out with a list in their hands, and everyone stood up, their hopeful gazes fixed on the paper.

    "Dear candidates, the positions for this recruitment are limited. There are a total of four spots. Based on your performances today, we have tentatively selected four provisional candidates. I will now announce their names."

    After finishing this announcement, the interviewer nced at the eager crowd and smiled.

    "The first candidate is....."

    Su Qingnuan held her breath but heard an unfamiliar name.

    It wasn¡¯t hers...

    "It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s okay," Gu Xiaoxiao embraced her and whispered, "There are still three spots left."

    "The second candidate is..."

    Still, it wasn¡¯t hers...

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s breath grew stiff. Could it really be that she hadn¡¯t passed?

    "The third candidate, Gu Xiaoxiao."

    "Gu Xiaoxiao?" Su Qingnuan turned her head to Gu Xiaoxiao and grasped her hand tightly, eximing, "You passed!"

    "Huh? What?" Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her in disbelief, "What did you say?"

    "Oh my goodness!" Su Qingnuan lightly smacked her on the head and said urgently, "They just called out your name. You passed!"

    But Gu Xiaoxiao didn¡¯t erupt with joy; instead, she stared seriously at Su Qingnuan: "Since I could pass, you definitely can. There¡¯s still one spot left."

    "...Mm."

    Even if it wasn¡¯t her... at least Xiaoxiao made it, so the trip wouldn¡¯t feel wasted.

    Although she wasn¡¯t sure how to exin it to Mr. Fu when she got back. If he asked, what would she say?

    Maybe she could inquire about why she hadn¡¯t passed. Was her concept not innovative enough, or....

    "The fourth candidate, Su Qingnuan."

    Would Mr. Fu help her look into it, or....

    "Qingnuan, why are you standing there nkly?" Gu Xiaoxiao shook her shoulders excitedly, "Didn¡¯t you hear? They called your name!"

    "Huh? They called my name?" Su Qingnuan blinked in surprise at Gu Xiaoxiao. "I was thinking about something and didn¡¯t hear. Are you sure?"

    "Of course I¡¯m sure. Why would I lie to you about this?"

    Su Qingnuan stood there dumbfounded for a moment, then suddenly reached out and hugged Gu Xiaoxiao, poking her head repeatedly.

    "This is so great¡ªwe both passed!"

    "Yes, we did!"

    The jubnt atmosphere between the two stood in stark contrast to the disappointment of others nearby.

    They gathered their belongings and left thepany.

    The other two sessful candidates were also selected alongside them.

    However, the other two were both male.

    "Hi, let¡¯s introduce ourselves. My name is Liang Tong."

    Liang Tong had an exceptionally bright smile and sharp, refined features.

    The other, wearing sses and looking schrly, was named Jiang Mou.

    "We¡¯ll all be colleagues at the samepany moving forward. Please take care of me!" Liang Tong smiled as he extended his hand in greeting.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and shook hands with him politely.

    After collecting their documents from the interviewers, the four new hires were instructed to report directly the next day.

    Su Qingnuan carefully put the documents into her bag and smiled, "Xiaoxiao, what should we do tonight to celebrate?"

    "Sounds good to me!" Gu Xiaoxiao linked arms with Su Qingnuan, excitedly saying, "Although, I¡¯m a bit worried your Mr. Fu might not be okay with it!"

    At the mention of Mr. Fu, Su Qingnuan quickly pulled out her phone to give Fu Yihan a call, nning to let him know she¡¯d being homete.

    But the phone only rang twice before the call was abruptly hung up.

    Listening to the dial tone, Su Qingnuan hesitated.

    "Qingnuan? Should we still go?" Xiaoxiao asked from the side.

    Putting her phone away, Su Qingnuan smiled, "Of course!"

    The two of them went out and indulged in food for two hours. By the time Su Qingnuan nced at the clock, it was already 9 PM.

    She hurriedly bid farewell to Gu Xiaoxiao and hailed a cab home.

    The living room lights were off, so Su Qingnuan used her phone¡¯s shlight to navigate upstairs quietly.

    "Squeak¡ª"

    The door slowly creaked open, a sliver of light illuminating the dark room.

    Su Qingnuan slipped inside soundlessly, carefully closing the door behind her.

    As she turned around, the beam of light revealed utter chaos.

    The once-pristine carpet was smeared with dirt, and even the sofa wasn¡¯t spared.

    Su Qingnuan froze.

    What had happened here?

    Was the house burrized?

    Abandoning concerns about disturbing others, Su Qingnuan felt along the wall and turned on the light.

    "Click¡ª"

    With a crisp sound, the light flicked on, illuminating the room¡¯s wreckage.

 Chapter 109: The Fickle Mr. Fu.

    <h4>Chapter 109: Chapter 109: The Fickle Mr. Fu.</h4>

    "Turn off the lights!"

    A tense and cold voice broke out.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment and followed the sound.

    Fu Yihan was not sitting in his wheelchair but lying on the carpet near the coffee table.

    His body was stained with traces of disarray, his eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling.

    "Mr. Fu... What¡¯s going on..."

    A chilling gaze swept over, and Su Qingnuan felt trapped in the gaze of a demon.

    Cold, bone-piercing, and filled with despair, as if it crawled from the abyss.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but step back, her back hitting the cold, hardened door, making a loud bang.

    "Get out!"

    Bloodshot eyes surged with rage.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The light dimmed, chaos was swallowed by the darkness.

    "...Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan clenched her teeth and trembled as she asked, "What happened to you?"

    There was no answer; that person merged into the darkness, silent and motionless.

    Su Qingnuan took a cautious step forward, her heart pounding: "Mr. Fu?"

    "Boom¡ª"

    Something exploded at her feet, a hard object striking against her skin.

    "Get out!"

    "..."

    She silently retreated to the door but didn¡¯t leave.

    Though Fu Yihan in this state was terrifying... the injured-animal-like look in his eyes was something she couldn¡¯t forget.

    She quietly sat down without speaking.

    The room was filled only with his heavy breathing, one sharp intake of air after another.

    When those breaths finally steadied, Su Qingnuan mustered up her courage again.

    "Would you like some water? I¡¯ll pour you a ss."

    "..."

    In the silence, an unusual nce was cast her way.

    "I told you to get out! Do you not understand human speech?"

    "But you..."

    "What does it have to do with you how I am?"

    "...I just care about you."

    "I don¡¯t need your pretentious concern. Leave me alone!"

    Even though the lights were off, Su Qingnuan felt as if she could see the man not far away, his furrowed brows and bloodshot eyes.

    She merely wanted to care for him, yet why was his attitude always so harsh?

    Heat flushed her face, not out of shyness, but anger.

    Angry at herself for still refusing to leave even under such circumstances.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and said softly, "I only wanted to care about you, but your attitude of pushing people away is truly chilling. If you¡¯re upset, you could have simply asked me to leave normally, rather than using such... harsh words!"

    With that, Su Qingnuan opened the door and walked out.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The door mmed shut behind her.

    Compared to the darkness of the room, the light in the hallway felt even more stifling to Su Qingnuan.

    She nced at the light in front of her with frustration and made her way downstairs.

    Searching for a bottle of water in the kitchen, Su Qingnuan held it and sat down, staring nkly at the staircase.

    Now it seemed impossible to enter the room, and she could only contemte spending the night in the living room or heading to the guest bedroom.

    As Su Qingnuan was lost in her thoughts, the front door swung open.

    A Qi walked in and saw Su Qingnuan sitting there, looking surprised.

    "Young Madam, why are you here?"

    Su Qingnuan turned her face away, hiding her reddened eyes.

    "It¡¯s nothing, I just thought the room felt stuffy, so I came out for some air."

    "..."

    Though her face was hidden, the grievance in her tone gave everything away.

    A Qi cast a deep nce upstairs, sighing lightly.

    "Young Madam, if you¡¯re not busy, would you care to hear a story from me?"

    "What kind of story?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion.

    Seeing her turn her head, A Qi smiled and sat down.

    "Once, the Fu family had a gentle and obedient child. Whether it was studying or other pursuits, he excelled in everything. Handsome, too, he was adored by the elders."

    Almost instantly, Su Qingnuan knew who A Qi was referring to.

    After all, Fu Yihan¡¯s stories were widely circted in these circles, especially tales of his childhood¡ªuniformly described as obedient, well-mannered, and highly intelligent.

    "Perhaps the heavens envy perfection, for a car ident took away his ability to walk," A Qi lowered his head in silentment. "Though he never gave up, always hoping to stand again, his dreams were ultimately defeated by reality."

    Su Qingnuan froze, looking at A Qi with confusion: "What do you mean?"

    A Qi nced upstairs, his voice low: "Today, Eldest Young Master went to the hospital for a check-up. The doctor told him his legs would never recover."

    "...How could that be?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened. "Wasn¡¯t there still hope before?"

    A Qi shook his head: "The doctor said it himself. It extinguished thest shred of hope he had."

    "..."

    The thought of living the rest of his life without standing again was terrifying enough for Su Qingnuan¡ªhow much worse must it have been for him, the one enduring it.

    Thinking back to her defiant words earlier, a wave of regret washed over her.

    If she had known his outburst was tied to the news about his legs, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t have said a single word and just let him vent all his frustrations freely.

    Fidgeting with her clothes nervously, Su Qingnuan whispered tentatively: "A Qi, earlier upstairs I said some harsh words to Mr. Fu. Do you think..."

    A Qi turned his head, giving her a look of hopelessness.

    "Young Madam, this time there¡¯s nothing I can do for you."

    "..."

    Taking a bottle of water from the fridge, Su Qingnuan tiptoed back to the room.

    The room was still shrouded in darkness, silent as ever.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan called softly.

    There was no response.

    She stepped gently, careful not to make a sound on the floor.

    Once inside, Su Qingnuan turned on the light.

    But the living room was empty; Fu Yihan was nowhere to be seen. Su Qingnuan froze briefly and looked over at a nearby room door.

    The door was tightly closed, with a light still shining inside.

    Su Qingnuan approached it.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    The door echoed her knocking, but there was no sound from within.

    Su Qingnuan waited outside for a long time, but no one came to open the door.

    Looking back at the mess strewn across the room, Su Qingnuan sighed and left the water aside, resigning to clean up the ce.

    The carpet had lost its original hue and would need recing the next day.

    Su Qingnuan moved the floorboards, tidied the table, and then grabbed a cloth to wipe its surface clean.

    Looking at the table that now gleamed, Su Qingnuan wiped the sweat from her forehead and returned to the room door.

    "Mr. Fu, I¡¯ve left water outside. If you¡¯re thirsty, pleasee out and take it."

    Silence. No sound at all.

    Su Qingnuan sighed and retreated to her own room.

    Lying on her bed, Su Qingnuan kept her ears tuned to the sounds outside.

    But even as she drifted off, there wasn¡¯t a single noise.

    When she woke up, daylight had already filled the room¡ªit was the next morning.

    Su Qingnuan bolted up and opened the door.

    The living room had been cleaned; a fresh carpet had been ced, but Fu Yihan was nowhere to be seen.

 Chapter 110 Holding a Grudge

    <h4>Chapter 110: Chapter 110 Holding a Grudge</h4>

    After hurriedly tidying up, Su Qingnuan ran downstairs.

    She saw Fu Yihan sitting in the wheelchair, expressionless as he ate his breakfast.

    "Yuerou?" The old man noticed Su Qingnuan and smiled lightly. "Why are you rushing like this? Come, have breakfast!"

    Seeing Fu Yihan¡¯spleteck of expression, Su Qingnuan forced a smile, cautiously walked over, and sat down beside him.

    But as soon as she sat down, he suddenly put down his chopsticks.

    "I¡¯m done eating."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan wheeled himself away.

    The old man stared at his departing figure, puzzled. "Strange, so early in the morning, who¡¯s upset him again?"

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head, not daring to speak.

    Without Fu Yihan there, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t have much appetite either. She hastily ate a few bites and ran outside.

    When she saw Ah Qi waiting outside, Su Qingnuan walked over, looking entirely defeated.

    "Ah Qi, what should I do?" Su Qingnuan gazed at him in frustration. "Mr. Fu is angry."

    Ah Qi cast a nce at the car window, his expression unchanging as he frowned. "There¡¯s nothing I can do if you ask me. Eldest Young Master¡¯s anger is terrifying. You¡¯d better think of a way to fix this as soon as possible."

    ".....Can you at least give me some advice?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    ".....I have no advice to offer."

    With that, Ah Qi opened the driver¡¯s seat door and got into the car.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan sighed and opened the door to the back seat.

    The next moment, Su Qingnuan froze.

    Someone was already sitting in the back seat, holding a newspaper in their hands and quietly reading.

    "Mr. Fu...." Su Qingnuan called out awkwardly.

    The man didn¡¯t respond, only furrowing his brows.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly got into the car.

    The atmosphere inside the car felt strange.

    Su Qingnuan repeatedly opened her mouth, wanting to try starting a conversation with Mr. Fu.

    But Mr. Fu was like a block of ice, his face broadcasting a clear "Do Not Approach" warning.

    In such a situation, Su Qingnuan found herself at a loss for words.

    It wasn¡¯t until Ah Qi parked the car at the school that Su Qingnuan snapped out of it.

    "Young Madam, you¡¯ve arrived," Ah Qi reminded Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan, hesitating before saying, "Ah Qi, you might need toe straight to thepany to pick me upter. I¡¯m going there for my internship today."

    "Alright."

    After getting out of the car, Su Qingnuan looked through the window at Fu Yihan again, but he remainedpletely indifferent.

    Su Qingnuan sighed slightly, withdrew her gaze, and walked toward the school.

    Watching Su Qingnuan¡¯s retreating figure, Ah Qi sighed.

    "Eldest Young Master, Young Madam didn¡¯t mean to. Can¡¯t you see how close she is to breaking down and crying?"

    The man reading raised his head and looked at Su Qingnuan¡¯s departing figure, sneering. "If she likes talking nonsense, then she has to pay the price, doesn¡¯t she?"

    "...As long as it makes you happy."

    The car window slowly rolled up, and the car drove away.

    ...

    "Our internship process involves spending two weeks in each department, and then..."

    Up ahead, an older employee sent by thepany to guide them was rambling on, but Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t catch a single word.

    She stared at the teacher¡¯s constantly moving lips, yet her mind was entirely focused on what she should do tonight to cheer Fu Yihan up.

    "Hey!" Gu Xiaoxiao poked Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm and said in a low voice, "What¡¯s going on with you? The teacher has looked at you several times already!"

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of it, meeting the teacher¡¯s stern gaze, and quickly lowered her head.

    "Caught, weren¡¯t you?" Gu Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly. "Seriously, what¡¯s on your mind? It¡¯s internship time!"

    "Nothing....." Su Qingnuan replied softly. "I wasn¡¯t thinking about anything. I¡¯m listening to the teacher."

    "Oh,e on. From your earlier expression, it¡¯s obvious you were distracted. Don¡¯t pretend you were paying attention."

    Suddenly, Su Qingnuan lowered her head and remained silent.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was stunned for a moment and turned her head.

    "It seems like you two talk more than I do?" The teacher¡¯s cold voice rang out clearly.

    The other two interns who were with them gave them teasing looks.

    Gu Xiaoxiao forced a smile. "Master, we were wrong."

    "If you think you know so much, why don¡¯t you start with the basics?"

    With that, the teacher handed a broom to each of them.

    "Go ahead."

    "..."

    Watching the teacher walk away, Su Qingnuan said helplessly, "Where did these brooms evene from?"

    "No idea. I didn¡¯t see them earlier."

    "..."

    The two sighed and epted their fate, grabbing the brooms and following the teacher¡¯s instructions to clean the lobby.

    On their first day of internship, the two were assigned the task of sweeping the floor, and numerouspany employees watched the unfolding scene for amusement.

    With their heads lowered, both of them felt deeply embarrassed yet couldn¡¯t do anything about it.

    The entire morning was spent sweeping the floor.

    After finally cleaning the lobby, the teacher reappeared and took them directly to an upstairs office.

    "After you finish lunch, clean this ce as well."

    "Teacher! We still have to keep cleaning?"

    "Don¡¯t want to sweep floors?" The teacher squinted at them.

    Gu Xiaoxiao quickly shook her head. "We¡¯ll do anything as long as it¡¯s not sweeping floors!"

    The teacher sneered. "You¡¯d better stick to sweeping the floors."

    With that, she turned and left.

    The two exchanged helpless smiles.

    "If I had known, I would¡¯ve pinched you hard to snap you out of it and avoid talking to you!"

    "...It¡¯s toote now."

    After having lunch with the group in the cafeteria, the two returned and resumed sweeping the floors.

    As more people returned from lunch, cleaning became more difficult for them.

    "Excuse me, could you raise your leg?"

    Some who had good tempersplied and lifted their legs, while those with worse dispositions red at them or, in some cases, grumbled with curses.

    As neers, the two had no choice but to endure the reprimands and speed up their tasks to finish them quickly.

    After painstakingly tidying up an entire floor¡¯s office, the teacher didn¡¯t appear again, leaving them with a brief moment to rest.

    In the break room, they ran into two other interns who were clutching documents and whispering furtively.

    Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao leaned over. "What are you guys looking at? What¡¯s in those documents?"

    Hearing her voice, the interns promptly shielded the documents and nced at Gu Xiaoxiao warily.

    "What do you think you¡¯re doing? Poking your nose into someone else¡¯s business."

    "Peeking?" Gu Xiaoxiao froze, flustered. "I was just asking, not...."

    "Ugh, don¡¯t bother talking to them anymore. Let¡¯s go. Bad luck!"

    Seeing how the two interns avoided them as if they were something unlucky, Gu Xiaoxiao looked even more puzzled.

    She turned to Su Qingnuan. "Is there something dirty on my face?"

    "No." Su Qingnuan shook her head earnestly.

    "Then do I look unlucky?"

    "...Probably not...."

    "Then what¡¯s with their attitude?" Gu Xiaoxiao stamped her foot in anger. "This is absurd! They weren¡¯t like this when we first met in the morning. But now that the internship has started, they act like they¡¯re full-time employees!"

    "Don¡¯t get upset," Su Qingnuan said with a chuckle. "Maybe the teacher told them not to let outsiders see those materials."

 Chapter 111 Disdain

    <h4>Chapter 111: Chapter 111 Disdain</h4>

    "How¡¯s that possible?" Gu Xiaoxiao tapped Su Qingnuan¡¯s foot with the broom. "You¡¯re just an intern. What kind of amazing task could they possibly assign you? Stop joking."

    That wasn¡¯t inurate.

    But the attitude of the two colleagues was perfectly fine during the morning. After just a single lunch break, it shifted so drastically. If it wasn¡¯t due to some oppressive pressure, then what else could it have been?

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, pulled Gu Xiaoxiao closer, and whispered, "Do you think it¡¯s because the two of us started sweeping the floor on our first day, and they felt embarrassed on our behalf, so they immediately drew a clear line with us?"

    "...That¡¯s quite possible."

    Su Qingnuan forced a bitter smile. "What should we do? I feel so embarrassed."

    "Feel? It *is* embarrassing, alright?"

    "...."

    The two wallowed in self-pity for quite a while in the break room before their supervisor finally showed up.

    "What are you two doing here cking off?" The supervisor frowned deeply, pointing outside. "Once you finish sweeping this floor, there¡¯s still the upstairs waiting."

    "...We still have to sweep?" Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her in disbelief.

    The supervisor nodded. "Of course. The cleaningdy happened to take the day off, so the two of you can handle all her work today."

    "...."

    By the end of the day, Su Qingnuan was utterly exhausted, and Gu Xiaoxiao didn¡¯t even have the energy to crack jokes anymore.

    "Let me tell you, I¡¯ve probably swept more today than I do in an entire month," Gu Xiaoxiao said, clutching her back, her face filled with despair, looking every bit like someone who had the worst of luck.

    Su Qingnuan supported her lower back as well and said helplessly, "I... I haven¡¯t even done this much in half a year."

    Though no one in the Su family ever cared about her much, they at least didn¡¯t make her do physical chores like sweeping, though she was frequently ordered to wash dishes.

    Gu Xiaoxiao patted Su Qingnuan on the shoulder and sighed, "Kindred spirits. Tomorrow will be better. Hang in there!"

    Gritting her teeth, Su Qingnuan nodded. "Alright!"

    Encouraging each other, the two of them finally left thepany.

    For the first time ever, the sight of Ah Qi¡¯s car filled Su Qingnuan with sheer excitement.

    Opening the car door, Su Qingnuan wanted to dive in immediately, but that thought evaporated the moment she saw the person sitting in the back seat.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan forced a smile as she greeted him.

    Fu Yihan was immersed in the book he held, silent and impassive.

    Clenching her teeth, she moved her sore hands and climbed into the car, leaning back against the seat in a semi-reclined position.

    The car swayed gently as it moved forward. Exhausted to her very core, Su Qingnuan¡¯s body leaned into the chair, and she dozed off almost immediately.

    The sound of heavy breathing reached keen ears, prompting Fu Yihan to turn his head.

    As she slept, her lips parted slightly, her jaw gently bobbing with each breath.

    What if I slipped a candy into her mouth¡ªwould she wake up?

    An oddly mischievous thought crossed Fu Yihan¡¯s mind without his permission.

    He stared at her for a moment before finally withdrawing his gaze.

    "When didpanies start treating interns this harshly?"

    Ah Qi nced into the rearview mirror, taking in the scene in the backseat.

    "I¡¯m not entirely sure. Perhaps it¡¯s because of the young madam¡¯s health. It might make her feel more drained than others."

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan said nothing more.

    The car came to a stop in front of the Fu family residence. Even the noise of Fu Yihan getting out of the car wasn¡¯t enough to wake the person inside.

    Looking at the figure slumped over in sleep, Fu Yihan said coldly, "Let her sleep. Don¡¯t wake her."

    "Understood."

    Fu Yihan wheeled himself into the house while Ah Qi stood by the car, waiting silently.

    Somewhere between a dream and wakefulness, Su Qingnuan vaguely felt the sensation of a soft cushion beneath her head, prompting her to shift upward instinctively.

    *Bang*¡ª

    A sharp pain shot through her head, and Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes flew open.

    A cramped space, neither soft cushions nor a pillow¡ªonly a leather seat and the car door she¡¯d just bonked into greeted her.

    Rubbing her head, she sat up and immediately spotted Ah Qi standing outside the car door.

    "Ah Qi?" Su Qingnuan leaned against the window, confused. "What are you standing here for?"

    Lowering his eyes respectfully, Ah Qi answered, "Young madam, you fell asleep in the car. I couldn¡¯t lock it."

    "...."

    A fleeting moment of awkwardness crossed Su Qingnuan¡¯s face. Clutching her bag, she stepped out of the car.

    "Thanks for your trouble," Su Qingnuan said with an awkward chuckle.

    Ah Qi¡¯s expression remained unchanged.

    "No trouble at all. It¡¯s my duty."

    With that, Su Qingnuan walked into the house under Ah Qi¡¯s watchful gaze.

    Back in her room, Su Qingnuan nced toward Fu Yihan¡¯s room. His door was locked.

    What¡¯s he up to now?

    Curious but not pursuing the thought further, Su Qingnuan opened her own door.

    Sitting down, she found herself unable to focus on anything else. Thoughts about Fu Yihan upied her mind.

    What could she possibly do to make him less upset?

    Su Qingnuan had grown up with Shen Lin¡¯an, her childhood sweetheart. Because of his presence, she had barely interacted with other men.

    For this reason, when Ah Qi mentioned the word "appease," Su Qingnuan drew aplete nk.

    Shen Lin¡¯an never needed to be cheered up; he was always the one taking care of her.

    How exactly does one cheer up a man?

    Su Qingnuan typed this question into a search engine, yielding countless suggestions.

    Some proposed giving gifts, others suggested cooking a meal, and there were all kinds of quirky ideas too.

    But overall, cooking or gifting seemed the most reliable options.

    It was already evening, so going out to buy something wasn¡¯t an option.

    How about cooking?

    Having grown up without much parental affection, Su Qingnuan had picked up some cooking skills. The kitchen helper was around as well¡ªshe could ask for a few tips. It shouldn¡¯t turn out too badly.

    With this in mind, Su Qingnuan stood up and tiptoed out of her room.

    "Auntie!" Su Qingnuan leaned over the kitchen auntie¡¯s shoulder and whispered, "Could you teach me how to cook something?"

    "Huh?" The auntie looked at her in surprise. "Young madam, you don¡¯t like my cooking? If there¡¯s something you¡¯re not happy with, you can tell me. We¡¯ll work to improve it, or..."

    "No, no!" Su Qingnuan quickly grabbed the auntie¡¯s hand, exasperated. "It¡¯s not your fault."

    Leaning closer to the auntie¡¯s ear, she whispered, "I wanted to make something for Yihan to eat, to cheer him up."

    The auntie nodded knowingly. "I see."

    "Mhm!" Su Qingnuan shed a bashful smile. "What do you think I should make?"

    "How about I teach you how to make soup? It¡¯s simple and nutritious."

    "Sounds great!" Su Qingnuan pped her hands, smiling brightly. "I¡¯ll be counting on you, then."

    "Not a problem at all. In fact, a fresh chicken just arrived this morning. I¡¯ll teach you how to..."

    ...

    After three hours of hard work in the kitchen, the aroma of freshly made chicken soup wafted through the air. Seeing it served atst, Su Qingnuan beamed with pride.

    "Does this count as a sess?" Su Qingnuan asked the auntie.

    The auntie nodded, giving her a thumbs-up. "You¡¯ve got talent, young madam."

    Embarrassed, Su Qingnuan smiled shyly. "Thank you."

    Shedled out the soup and ted some drumsticks and wings separately.

    "Thank you, Auntie. I¡¯ll take it up now."

    "Alright."

    Carrying the chicken soup carefully, Su Qingnuan walked forward with great caution.

    "Young madam?" Ah Qi, stationed at the door, raised a curious brow at her careful movements. "What are you doing...?"

    "Ah Qi, can you help me with something?" Su Qingnuan grimaced. "I¡¯ve done too much today; my hands have no strength left. Can you help me carry this soup inside?"

 Chapter 112: Apology

    <h4>Chapter 112: Chapter 112: Apology</h4>

    "You made this soup yourself?" Ah Qi asked in surprise.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and said softly, "It¡¯s my first time making soup. The auntie said it was okay, but I don¡¯t know if it tastes good or not..."

    "It¡¯s fine." Ah Qi took the item, rare to see a faint smile on his face, "Your intentions will be felt by the Eldest Young Master."

    "...Really?" Su Qingnuan looked at Ah Qi expectantly and asked cautiously, "Mr. Fu isn¡¯t the petty type, is he?"

    "....."

    Ah Qi paused for a moment, smiled helplessly, and carried the soup as he opened the door.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan dared not speak too much and followed behind Ah Qi into the room.

    Fu Yihan was sitting in the living room. The living room, a mess from the night before, had beenpletely transformed, with even the sofa and table reced.

    "Eldest Young Master." Ah Qi walked over with the soup, speaking in a low voice, "This chicken soup was personally made for you by the Young Madam."

    That man lifted his eyelids slightly; his emotionless gaze turned towards Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head, nervously clutching the hem of her clothing.

    "You made this yourself?" he asked.

    "Uh... yes." Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly. "You should try it; the taste should be okay."

    Fu Yihan curled his lips into a smirk, sneering, "What? It¡¯s your first time making something?"

    "... Yes."

    "Are you treating me like a test subject?" His tone was cold as he asked.

    Su Qingnuan immediately shook her head. "No! I just wanted to apologize to you, so I made it..."

    "Ha."

    The sneer echoed in her ears, and the little courage Su Qingnuan had mustered deted once again.

    She lowered her head, her hands continuously twisting the hem of her clothes.

    The neat fabric in her hands crumpled into a wrinkled mess.

    The room was silent; no one spoke.

    The icy gaze lingered on Su Qingnuan, not leaving her for a long time.

    It was unclear how much time passed, but beads of cold sweat began to form on Su Qingnuan¡¯s forehead.

    She felt like she was on the verge of suffocating from the oppressive atmosphere.

    "Bring it over."

    The sudden voice broke the eerie silence in the room.

    Ah Qi put the soup on the table and thoughtfully served a bowl.

    Fu Yihan took the bowl, raised his eyes slightly, and caught someone sneaking a nce at him. His eyebrows arched faintly.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head, pretending she hadn¡¯t seen anything.

    The crisp sound of the spoon touching the bowl echoed in the room, clear yet subdued.

    Amidst the gentle sound, Su Qingnuan slowly exhaled a breath of relief.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say anything and quietly drank the soup.

    Not until the bowl was set down did Su Qingnuan cautiously raise her head, watching the man elegantly wipe the corner of his mouth.

    "Mr. Fu... how is it?"

    His indifferent gaze swept over her, and Fu Yihan said coldly, "Not good."

    "..."

    "Itcks salt."

    "Oh..."

    "Take it away." He said.

    With drooped shoulders, Su Qingnuan trudged over, picking up the bowl and utensils to head downstairs.

    "Ah Qi, tomorrow night I¡¯d like rib soup with winter melon."

    She paused mid-step and looked back at Fu Yihan in delight. "Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll make it for you!"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, looking at her meaningfully. "Thest time, yours didn¡¯t have salt."

    "Don¡¯t worry, this time I¡¯ll make sure to get it right."

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s hopeful gaze, Fu Yihan reluctantly nodded.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan smiled broadly and cheerfully walked out.

    Watching her joyful figure disappearing into the distance, Ah Qi couldn¡¯t help butugh. "Eldest Young Master, the Young Madam is actually rather endearing."

    "Hmm."

    Ah Qi looked at him in surprise, lowering his head toward Fu Yihan.

    There was a trace of softness in his eyes, and his expression was no longer as cold as before.

    After the initial surprise came understanding, and with it, a hint of anticipation.

    Perhaps this Young Madam would bring them a series of unexpected surprises and even...

    His gaze shifted subtly,nding on the emotionless Eldest Young Master. Unintentionally, a smile spread across Ah Qi¡¯s face.

    ...

    After that bowl of soup, although Fu Yihan continued to ignore her, Su Qingnuan clearly felt that the surrounding chill had dissipated a lot.

    On the first day of the month, before heading out, Su Qingnuan specifically reminded the auntie to prepare ribs and winter melon, ensuring she could leave with peace of mind.

    As usual, Ah Qi was waiting in front of the car. He opened the door, where Fu Yihan was already seated inside.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan greeted him with a cheerful smile.

    Fu Yihan nced at her and responded with an indifferent nod before lowering his gaze again.

    The atmosphere today wasn¡¯t as tense as yesterday. Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze and chuckled softly under her breath.

    When they arrived at thepany entrance, Su Qingnuan got out, ready to say goodbye, only to find Fu Yihan staring at her.

    Startled, Su Qingnuan returned his gaze in confusion.

    His previously rxed brows slowly furrowed.

    "What are you looking at me for?" he asked in a cold tone.

    "... Weren¡¯t you the one looking at me first, Mr. Fu?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression darkened as his deep eyes bore into hers.

    Quickly averting her eyes, Su Qingnuan murmured, "My bad. I just wanted to see if there was anything else you needed from me, Mr. Fu."

    "Go."

    "... Alright."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, Su Qingnuan obediently turned and walked into thepany.

    In the lobby, she bumped into Gu Xiaoxiao, who was standing there with a gloomy expression.

    "Xiaoxiao." Su Qingnuan quietly approached, giving her a friendly pat on the shoulder with a smile as she asked, "What¡¯s up with you?"

    "... You scared me to death!" Gu Xiaoxiao turned around and scolded her.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled. "How could I scare you? You¡¯re the one just standing here, spacing out."

    "Let me tell you!" Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm and said gravely, "I just saw my supervisor."

    "And?" Su Qingnuan smiled. "Did they tell you which department we¡¯re reporting to today?"

    "..." Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s face fell as she looked at Su Qingnuan with aplicated expression. "That¡¯s what I needed to tell you. They said we¡¯re supposed to keep sweeping floors today."

    "... Sweeping what?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened, disbelief evident in her voice.

    "Keep sweeping floors."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her forehead. "You¡¯re joking, right?"

    "Of course not!" Gu Xiaoxiao said anxiously. "Those were her exact words!"

    "Where is she?" Su Qingnuan frowned.

    "She left. Gave me the instructions and then walked off."

    "..."

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s exasperated expression, Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "What do we do now?"

    "What else can we do?" Su Qingnuan shrugged helplessly. "We¡¯re interns. Whatever they tell us to do, we do."

    "... But we didn¡¯t sign up to be sweeping interns!"

    "Of course I know that! But unless you have another option, what choice do we have?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao fell silent, suddenly at a loss for words.

    Watching her distressed expression, Su Qingnuan patted her back gently. "Alright, let¡¯s talk to her about it tomorrow, okay?"

    "Okay."

    The two picked up their brooms again and resumed their floor-sweeping duties.

    After painstakingly sweeping an entire floor, they sat in the break room to rest.

    The supervisor hadn¡¯t assigned them a break area, and they didn¡¯t have desks. To avoid gossip from others, they hid behind the water bar in the break room.

 Chapter 113 Rumors

    <h4>Chapter 113: Chapter 113 Rumors</h4>

    The two of them hid behind the counter, sipping tea, enjoying a rare moment of leisure.

    While they wereughing and chatting, amotion arose outside.

    "Hey, did you guys hear? Those two new interns apparently got in through connections."

    "Two? Weren¡¯t there four interns this year?"

    "Yes, four. But haven¡¯t two of them just been stuck cleaning all the time..."

    The two hiding behind the counter suddenly turned their heads and their gazes met.

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow, staring at Gu Xiaoxiao, her look questioning.

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head, her face the picture of innocence.

    "You mean those two? I heard that they pissed off the boss, which is why they were sent to clean."

    "What pissed off the boss? Isn¡¯t it just that the boss can¡¯t stand people pulling strings to get in, so he¡¯s intentionally giving them a hard time?"

    "...Seriously? When did ourpany start letting people use connections anyway?"

    "Exactly. But I heard that..."

    *BANG¡ª*

    Gu Xiaoxiao mmed the table and stood up abruptly, shouting angrily, "What do you mean by pulling strings? We got in fair and square through the interviews!"

    "..."

    The group sitting in the lounge stared at her inexplicably.

    "What are you looking at me for?" Gu Xiaoxiao pointed a finger at them and frowned. "Speak! Who said it?"

    Su Qingnuan stood up helplessly, pressing down on Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulder and speaking in a low voice, "Calm down."

    "How can I calm down?" Gu Xiaoxiao said anxiously, "We clearly earned this with our skills, yet in their eyes, it¡¯s as if we got in through connections. Does that mean all our hard work these past days count for nothing?"

    Su Qingnuan fell silent.

    Seeing her quiet, Gu Xiaoxiao continued, "I¡¯m just an intern; if I cause trouble in thepany, worst-case scenario, I leave. But you¡¯re full-time employees. If you really go up against me, by yourpany¡¯s rules, wouldn¡¯t you have to leave too?"

    The group of people froze, then cautiously stood up and headed for the door.

    "Wait!" Gu Xiaoxiao rushed over and blocked the door. "Spill! Who was the one spreading this?"

    "Are you nuts? We¡¯re just repeating rumors. Whoever started them, go bother them!"

    "Exactly! Move aside already, we have work to do! If you don¡¯t move, we¡¯re calling security!"

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan pulled Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand, shielding her behind her.

    "You can leave, but first, tell me¡ªwho¡¯s your boss?"

    The group fell silent.

    "Not talking? Fine," Su Qingnuan chuckled softly. "Like you said, we supposedly have connections. If you don¡¯t speak, the ones packing up tomorrow might just be one of you."

    "..."

    They all exchanged nces, silently looking toward one person.

    That person nced at Su Qingnuan and hesitated before saying, "Our boss is the one who¡¯s mentoring you guys¡ªthe one assigned to train new hires."

    "Got it."

    Su Qingnuan looked at Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded and released her grip.

    The group scattered like they were fleeing for their lives.

    Watching the now-empty lounge, Gu Xiaoxiao walked over and plopped down on the sofa.

    "No wonder we¡¯ve been getting such a hard time¡ªso that¡¯s the reason. But what connections do we have?" Gu Xiaoxiao fumed, pounding the throw pillow. "That supervisor is really too much! And those two ssmates yesterday¡ªI finally understand why they treated us so differently in the afternoon. Turns out they¡¯re afraid we¡¯ll drag them down?"

    "Enough." Su Qingnuan rubbed her temples, exasperated. "When the supervisores tomorrow, we¡¯ll ask her what¡¯s actually going on."

    "Fine!"

    The two packed up their things, not staying at thepany and heading home instead.

    It was Su Qingnuan¡¯s first time not notifying Ah Qi, opting to take a cab back by herself.

    Back at the Fu family residence, she shut herself in her room and copsed onto the bed.

    Why would there be such bizarre rumors?

    Even though thepany¡¯s president, Fu Yihan, was someone she knew, knowing his personality, he¡¯d never give her any special treatment.

    Considering all the circumstances of how she joined thepany, Su Qingnuan felt that the most usible exnation was rted to those forty candidates who made it to the preliminary round.

    It really was such a coincidence, starting from her. Even Su Qingnuan herself hadn¡¯t anticipated this.

    Could it really be because of that?

    But even she didn¡¯t know what had happened¡ªhow could it bebeled as cheating?

    This is way tooplicated!

    Massaging her forehead, Su Qingnuan sighed loudly at the ceiling.

    As shey there thinking aimlessly, she suddenly heard a knock on the door.

    "Who is it?" She got up and opened the door.

    "Young Madam," Ah Qi stood at the door and respectfully greeted her.

    "Ah Qi..." Su Qingnuan suddenly remembered she hadn¡¯t notified him, quickly apologizing, "Sorry, I forgot to call you."

    Ah Qi smiled. "It¡¯s fine. I came to remind Young Madam about Eldest Young Master¡¯s soup for tonight..."

    Soup?

    Su Qingnuan tilted her head, trying to recall.

    "Ah!" She suddenlyughed. "I know. Auntie¡¯s already prepared the ingredients. I¡¯ll go and make it for Eldest Young Master now."

    "Alright, Young Madam."

    Su Qingnuan headed downstairs and slipped into the kitchen.

    Seeing her, Auntie immediately brought out the prepared ingredients.

    "Young Madam, shall I teach you how to make it?"

    "Alright." Su Qingnuan smiled. "Thank you, Auntie."

    "No need to thank me," Auntie said as sheughed. "Young Master wouldn¡¯t drink the soup we made before. Now that he¡¯s actively asking for it, we couldn¡¯t be happier!"

    "Hmm?" Su Qingnuan looked at Auntie quizzically. "He didn¡¯t drink soup before?"

    "Nope." Auntie sighed. "He used to love it as a child, but ever since he fell ill, he hardly touches it. Only when forced would he take a sip or two."

    "I didn¡¯t expect Yihan to be so fussy about food!"

    "He certainly is," Auntie said with a wry smile. "Eldest Young Master is famously picky. Back in the day..."

    While the soup simmered, Auntie recounted stories of Fu Yihan¡¯s childhood to Su Qingnuan.

    A charming, intelligent, and well-behaved little boy.

    Whenever they talked about Fu Yihan as a child, smiles would naturally spread across their faces.

    But as soon as they returned to the topic of the current Fu Yihan, a certain bitterness would always cloud their expressions.

    "Eldest Young Master has had his share of misfortune in this life. The heavens must have been envious to treat him this way."

    Seeing her saddened expression, Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "Yihan is truly fortunate to have all of you caring for him."

    Unlike her, back at home, aside from her father, everyone treated her as if she were invisible.

    "What good is our concern?" Auntie sighed helplessly. "The person he longs for the most isn¡¯t here, and our care is just fleeting¡ªit doesn¡¯t linger in his heart."

    "....."

    Once the soup was ready, Su Qingnuan carried it upstairs as usual.

    On the way, she almost stumbled due to her trembling hands, but Ah Qi quickly caught the bowl in time.

    "Young Madam, what¡¯s wrong with your hand..."

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s continuously trembling hand, Ah Qi questioned her suspiciously.

    "It¡¯s nothing." Su Qingnuan quickly hid her hand behind her back, smiling. "Just bring it inside first."

    "..."

 Chapter 114 Our Hope.

    <h4>Chapter 114: Chapter 114 Our Hope.</h4>

    Giving her a meaningful look, A Qi finally carried the soup inside.

    Fu Yihan was in his room. A Qi took the soup in, while Su Qingnuan stood at the door, watching how Fu Yihan reacted as he drank the soup.

    Still no expression.

    After he finished, Su Qingnuan timidly asked, "Is it good?"

    Putting down the empty bowl, Fu Yihan nonchntly shook his head, "Could be better."

    "...What would you like to drink tomorrow? I¡¯ll try harder!"

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brow in thought for a moment, then said, "Let¡¯s have pig trotter soup then."

    "Okay!"

    Su Qingnuan smiled as she took the bowl from A Qi.

    The moment the bowl was in her hand, it started to shake, the empty bowl and the spoon inside ttering.

    A Qi frowned, "Young Madam, what¡¯s wrong with your hand?"

    "It¡¯s nothing." Su Qingnuan quickly steadied her hand, smiling, "Maybe I¡¯ve just been too tiredtely."

    "Too tired?" A Qi asked suspiciously, "You¡¯re just interns. Does thepany have such strict requirements for interns?"

    They were in the IT industry, where interns were expected to type on keyboards.

    Obviously, A Qi assumed she had typed so much her hand was shaking?

    "It¡¯s fine; as an intern, I should be learning more."

    With that, she turned with the bowl in hand, "I¡¯ll head down now."

    Watching her quickly retreat, A Qi¡¯s brow did not rx.

    Looking back, he saw Fu Yihan also staring at the direction where Su Qingnuan had left.

    "A Qi," Fu Yihan withdrew his deep gaze and said in a low voice, "Go check thepany tomorrow."

    "Yes."

    ...

    Lying in bed at night, Su Qingnuan vaguely dreamt that she was arguing with that mentor.

    However, opening her eyes, she found she was still lying in bed.

    Wiping the cold sweat from her forehead, Su Qingnuan sat up.

    After a simple tidying up, she grabbed her backpack and went out.

    Today, she specifically got up early to go with Gu Xiaoxiao to thepany to catch that mentor, to prevent her from finding an excuse to leave.

    Seeing Su Qingnuane out while he was still wiping the car, A Qi was full of confusion.

    "Young Madam? Why are you up so early?"

    "I... I just want to go out for a walk." Su Qingnuan smiled, pointing outside the yard, "It¡¯s fine, you continue, no need to drive me, I¡¯ll take a cab."

    "....."

    A Qi quickly tossed aside the cloth and opened the car door, "I just finished wiping, Young Madam, let me take you."

    "No need." Su Qingnuan smiled wryly, "I can go by myself."

    "If you don¡¯t let me, and the Eldest Young Master finds out, I will be punished."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan stood still, silent for a moment, finally deciding to get in the car.

    Along the way, A Qi kept asking Su Qingnuan what she was doing at thepany so early.

    Su Qingnuan just brushed it off.

    But obviously, A Qi didn¡¯t seem to fully believe her from his gaze.

    Seeing they finally arrived at thepany, the car stopped, Su Qingnuan eagerly got off.

    "A Qi, you should go back, the Eldest Young Master is still at home waiting!"

    "....."

    Watching Su Qingnuan leave at a trot, A Qi rolled up the window and drove away.

    Su Qingnuan ran to the front of thepany and found the main door still closed.

    Since it was very early, there was no one at the entrance.

    She made a round and suddenly heard a noise behind her.

    "Qingnuan, over here!"

    Turning her head, she saw Gu Xiaoxiao hiding behind a pir, watching her.

    Su Qingnuan walked over with a faint smile, "Why are you hiding behind there?"

    "Nonsense!" Gu Xiaoxiao pulled her to hide behind the pir, "Thepany requires clocking in, so she¡¯ll definitelye at some point. We¡¯ll wait here so she won¡¯t see us."

    "Sounds like a good idea." Su Qingnuan nodded, standing beside her.

    As time passed, more and more people arrived, making it a bit overwhelming.

    It was difficult to spot that bright color among the people in professional attire, so Su Qingnuan quickly grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao and walked out.

    "Mentor!" Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao blocked the woman, "Long time no see."

    The woman gave them a cold nce and pushed up her sses.

    "You¡¯re here so early?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan responded with a smile.

    Gu Xiaoxiao snorted coldly, unwillingly speaking up, "Mentor, are we still going to be sweeping today?"

    "Of course." The woman frowned, "Today, you¡¯ll go to the archive room to organize documents. I¡¯ve already arranged it, get your work cards and go straight there."

    "Mentor, our internship doesn¡¯t include the archive room, right? Why are we going there?" Su Qingnuan asked with a smile.

    "Why so much chatter?" the woman said harshly, "If you don¡¯t want to do it, just say so. I don¡¯t have the time to train so-called talents like you."

    "..."

    Seeing her impatient tone, Gu Xiaoxiao finally couldn¡¯t hold back and pulled Su Qingnuan away.

    "Why are you even talking to someone like this?" she raised her voice, "Mentor, the interns who came in with us are all working on projects with mentors, why can¡¯t we? If I remember correctly, Qingnuan was first in the interview, right?"

    The woman frowned, looking at them with disdain.

    "Who told you she was first?"

    "Isn¡¯t she?" Su Qingnuan frowned, "I remember my name was at the top of the list, wasn¡¯t it?"

    "It wasn¡¯t your first, you¡¯re thinking too much."

    "....."

    The woman pushed her sses and angrily said, "If you don¡¯t want to do it, then leave, don¡¯t waste my time here."

    "Who said we don¡¯t want to do it?" Gu Xiaoxiao sneered, "It¡¯s just that the work you¡¯ve assigned isn¡¯t what we¡¯re supposed to be doing. We came to intern to learn, and what are we learning from this? Learning to do chores?"

    "What¡¯s wrong with doing chores? Do you look down on it?" The woman¡¯s icy gaze shifted between the two, "If you look down on it, then don¡¯t do it. You im you¡¯re here to learn, but now you¡¯reining about the work content."

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s cheeks turned red with anger.

    Su Qingnuan quickly pulled Gu Xiaoxiao, stepping between the two.

    "Since you say this is what we should be doing, let¡¯s go directly to the boss to reason it out."

    The woman was slightly stunned, frowning as she scrutinized her, "Who do you think you are? You think you can just meet the boss like that?"

    "Am I not the so-called ¡¯backdoor entrant¡¯ to you?" Su Qingnuan said with amusement, "Since you think I have connections, let me tell you today, I do have someone above me. Now, let¡¯s go to the boss¡¯s office and see if we should really be going to the archive room."

    "..." The woman pushed her sses and averted her gaze, "You think you can meet the boss just because you say so? Our boss hardly ever shows up; you can¡¯t just see him because you want to."

    Su Qingnuan smiled and looked towards the elevator.

    "If I¡¯m not mistaken, there¡¯s a high-level meeting today organized by the boss."

    "..."

 Chapter 115 Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 115: Chapter 115 Confrontation</h4>

    The woman¡¯s expression instantly turned grim.

    Su Qingnuan ignored her and continued, "If you don¡¯t want us to bring this matter to the boss, I hope you can provide us with a reasonable exnation."

    "A reasonable exnation?" The woman sneered. "I¡¯m just following the rules. What reasonable exnation? This is a workce, not a school. Stop holding on to your naive thinking. I have no obligation nor need to exin anything to you."

    After saying this, the woman lifted her foot and started walking away.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nced at Su Qingnuan and quickly stepped forward to block the woman¡¯s path.

    "Ma¡¯am, as Qingnuan just mentioned, if you won¡¯t give us an exnation, we can go to the boss."

    "Go ahead!" The womanughed mockingly. "Go! Just two interns, and you really think you¡¯re all that."

    Pushing past Gu Xiaoxiao, the woman continued walking forward.

    "Hey! You¡¯re truly unreasonable!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao shouted at the woman¡¯s retreating figure, attracting a fair bit of attention.

    Su Qingnuan tugged at Gu Xiaoxiao and said in a low voice, "It¡¯s no use. It seems she won¡¯t listen to reason or force."

    "Then what do we do?" Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "We can¡¯t just keep doing menial chores forever, can we?"

    "Absolutely not."

    She came here to learn, not just to do odd jobs.

    If the higher-ups truly intended to make things difficult for her, she would rather return to school and continue studying.

    "Let¡¯s talk to the boss." Su Qingnuan raised her head with a resolute gaze and looked upstairs. "Since she doesn¡¯t think we¡¯ll go to the boss, we might as well go directly."

    "...But we¡¯re only interns. Will the boss really listen to us?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked worriedly.

    Su Qingnuan turned her head and looked at Gu Xiaoxiao. "We only have two possible oues today¡ªone is continuing to do menial chores, the other is finding the boss and bing proper interns, or leaving thepany altogether."

    When they joined thepany, they had bothe with immense effort and determination.

    Neither of them was willing to just do odd jobs or leave without trying.

    But Su Qingnuan had already made up her mind.

    Her gaze was firm, showing no trace of retreat.

    Gu Xiaoxiao stared at her for a while, thenughed. "Since you put it that way, how could I possibly refuse?"

    "...If you want..."

    "I don¡¯t want to!" Gu Xiaoxiao interrupted her, linking her arm with Su Qingnuan¡¯s. "If this ce won¡¯t keep us, there¡¯ll always be somewhere else for us. If it¡¯s just doing odd jobs, I¡¯d rather go work as a waitress in a restaurant."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated. "Have you thought this through? This opportunity wasn¡¯t easy toe by."

    "So what about opportunities?" Gu Xiaoxiao pouted. "Better to have none at all. Besides, I only applied here because I wanted to work with you, so no more useless talk. If you¡¯re not staying, neither am I."

    Her heart warm and trembling, Su Qingnuan hugged Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulder and said softly, "To have a friend like you is truly my good fortune."

    "Obviously!" Gu Xiaoxiao patted her shoulder and smiled faintly. "So remember, if you ever seed, don¡¯t forget about me."

    "Got it." Su Qingnuanughed as she nudged her forward. "But now isn¡¯t the time to talk about that. Let¡¯s go see how things stand first."

    They had been sweeping floors in thepany for the past two days, so if nothing else, they were thoroughly familiar with thepany¡¯syout.

    It didn¡¯t take them long to find the manager¡¯s office.

    Thepany¡¯s president, Fu Yihan, rarely showed up at the office, as most matters were entrusted to the manager.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s earlierment about the meeting was based on something she overheard Fu Yihan mention. But it was a video conference, and Fu Yihan would not be attending in person.

    The two of them loitered at the door for a while. Once they confirmed the manager was inside, they finally stepped forward and knocked on the door.

    "Come in."

    Pushing the door open cautiously, they entered a spacious office. Directly opposite the door was arge desk filled with various items.

    "Manager Huang." Su Qingnuan walked in, smiling politely. "Hello, I¡¯m Su Qingnuan, an intern who joined thepany this year."

    The person behind theputer took a moment to nce at her. "What do you need?"

    "...I¡¯d like to discuss something with you, Manager Huang..."

    Su Qingnuan briefly but clearly exined the situation from the past two days.

    While she spoke, Manager Huang kept his head down, his hands never stopping their work.

    Seeing his demeanor, Su Qingnuan already felt her hope draining away.

    When she finished speaking, she stood upright, waiting for Manager Huang¡¯s response.

    The scratching of the pen suddenly stopped. Manager Huang leaned back in his chair and looked at the two of them meaningfully.

    "So, you¡¯vee to me because you want me to assign you suitable internship positions?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, then nodded.

    Manager Huang raised an eyebrow. "What¡¯s that supposed to mean?"

    "Even though I know these are just baseless rumors, I¡¯m still curious¡ªwhy did it happen that way? Why was I ced in that particr spot, selected out of forty others?"

    "Curious?" Manager Huang asked.

    Su Qingnuan quickly nodded, her eyes full of anticipation.

    "Heh!" Manager Huang withdrew his gaze and twirled the pen in his hand. "We selected forty people in total, based on their ability and time management skills. You must have seen that requirement on the front page of our website, right?"

    "Yes, we saw it."

    They had indeed seen it at the time, but they had thought it was merely about weeding out people prone to tardiness and hadn¡¯t given it much thought.

    "The people ahead of you all arrived hours early, with thetest among them arriving forty minutes early. We value time management, not wasted time. So, for those who arrived more than half an hour early, they were all out."

    Eyes wide with shock, Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t expected this to be the reason.

    Meeting her astonished gaze, Manager Huang chuckled lightly. "Any other questions about this matter, intern?"

    "No... none." Su Qingnuan adjusted her tone.

    "If there¡¯s nothing else, return to your work."

    "...Manager Huang, are you saying...?" Su Qingnuan cautiously probed.

    Manager Huang, his head still lowered and busy with his task, continued speaking without pause.

    "Don¡¯t underestimate menial tasks. The archive room contains records of all ourpany¡¯s major and minor projects from the past few years. If you can make good use of those materials, it will be immensely valuable for you."

    Suddenly enlightened, Su Qingnuan quickly bowed her head in thanks. "Thank you, Manager!"

    Then, giving the dazed Gu Xiaoxiao a nudge, the two of them left the office.

    Outside the door, Gu Xiaoxiao still seemed confused.

    "So, we¡¯re here purely based on luck?" she asked in a small voice.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, linking arms with her and smiling. "Exactly. And judging by Manager Huang¡¯s demeanor, there¡¯s a high chance he won¡¯t be getting rid of us anytime soon!"

    "Should we still go to the archive room then?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, her face twisted in worry.

    Pausing in her steps, Su Qingnuan furrowed her brow in thought before finally saying, "Let¡¯s go! Manager Huang said there¡¯s plenty of valuable material in the archive room, so why not?"

 Chapter 116: Good Things Belong to Everyone

    <h4>Chapter 116: Chapter 116: Good Things Belong to Everyone</h4>

    She went to the HR department to collect their badges, then headed straight to the records room.

    Unlike she had imagined, the records room was exceptionally clean and organized, and the office members were very weing.

    Upon learning that they were new interns, everyone offered to guide them through the work.

    It was the first time Su Qingnuan felt kindness since joining thepany.

    Thedy who was assigned to guide them was a petite, cheerful girl who loved tough.

    She was always jovial, exuding a very friendly vibe.

    "We¡¯re prettyid back here. If you have any questions, just ask, don¡¯t be shy."

    Looking at the woman¡¯s radiant smile, Su Qingnuan smiled back and said, "Thank you, sis."

    "No need to be polite with me. It¡¯s not every day we get interns assigned to the records room. We¡¯re thrilled!"

    With that, she led them toward the archives section.

    "The documents here consist of recent years¡¯pany project materials, along with some contracts. If anyonees looking for documents, you can search for them on theputer outside. Once located, you can retrieve them based on the cab¡¯s numbering system and hand them over.

    Thedy stopped in front of a particr shelf, her smile unwavering. "If you can¡¯t locate something, you¡¯ll need to check this shelf. These are thepany¡¯s earliest project files and contracts. They¡¯re quite messy and haven¡¯t been fully organized."

    "Understood."

    Their well-behaved responses made thedy very pleased. She took them on a quick orientation of the room. When they returned, Su Qingnuan noticed an ice cream cup ced on her desk.

    "Don¡¯t be shy! This is from our boss. She¡¯s very fond of new hires!"

    The boss was thedy who had been guiding them¡ªthe person in charge of the records room.

    Shooting a grateful look at thedy, Su Qingnuan picked up the ice cream and began eating it slowly.

    A day in the records room, though rxed, was quite rewarding, as Manager Huang had predicted.

    Stepping out of thepany, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath, gazing at the pristine sky above.

    "In all honesty, being in the records room sure beats cleaning floors, right?" Gu Xiaoxiao said with a faint smile.

    "Definitely." Su Qingnuan nodded, smiling. "This is our only way tofort ourselves for now."

    The two exchanged smiles and dropped the topic.

    At the entrance, they spotted a familiar car. Gu Xiaoxiao leaned closer and gave a mysterious smile. "Your guy sure is thoughtful¡ªalways taking care of you!"

    "...Stop spouting nonsense!"

    Su Qingnuan shot her a re, waved her hand to say goodbye, and ran toward the car.

    By the driver¡¯s seat, she saw Ah Qi and smiled. "Ah Qi, you¡¯re here early today!"

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t respond but instead nced toward the back seat.

    Startled, Su Qingnuan quickly opened the back door and saw the man sitting there silently.

    "Mr. Fu..."

    His cold gaze swept over her. "Get in the car."

    "Alright."

    Climbing in, Su Qingnuan looked out at the swiftly passing scenery. The thought that she could start reviewing documents tomorrow made her incredibly happy.

    "Work going well?"

    The unexpected question caught her off guard, and she turned to look at him.

    Fu Yihan was still focused on the materials in his hands as though the question had been asked on a whim.

    "Ah... it¡¯s going okay," Su Qingnuan replied with a faint smile.

    "Just okay?" Finally, Fu Yihan lifted his gaze and turned to look at her.

    "Mm." Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled. "The mentor guiding us has been really kind."

    He gave her a half-smile, half-smirk, saying nothing.

    For some reason, his gaze carried a chill, and Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t figure out what she had done to upset him again. She dared not say more.

    "If you¡¯re saying it¡¯s going okay, does that mean you don¡¯t need any special support from me?"

    rmed, Su Qingnuan quickly waved her hands. "No, no. I can manage on my own."

    "Alright."

    His tone turned cold again.

    The car¡¯s atmosphere seemed to freeze instantly. Su Qingnuan wondered if she¡¯d said something wrong and didn¡¯t understand his sudden frosty demeanor.

    The rest of the drive was in silence; Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say another word.

    asionally, Su Qingnuan would nce at him. His sharp, chiseled profile radiated an imprable iciness.

    Upon arriving home, Su Qingnuan tried to nudge him but was rebuffed.

    Feeling baffled, she stared at Ah Qi and Fu Yihan retreating indoors,pletely bewildered.

    What¡¯s his problem?

    This man¡¯s heart was harder to predict than a woman¡¯s mood swings.

    Sighing softly, Su Qingnuan followed them inside.

    In the main hall, she encountered the old master, who greeted Fu Yihan with a smile. However, thetter merely nced at him briefly without any reaction.

    "Hey? What kind of attitude is that?" The old man stood up with a frown. "Who ticked you off now?"

    Thement made Su Qingnuan lower her head even further.

    If the old master found out she was the culprit, who knew what lecture awaited her?

    Fu Yihan and Ah Qi had already stepped into the elevator, and Su Qingnuan quickly followed.

    "Yuerou!" The old master called out suddenly.

    Turning back, Su Qingnuan forced a wry smile. "Yes, Grandpa? What¡¯s up?"

    "Something¡¯s up." The old man nodded solemnly. "Come here and tell me what¡¯s going on."

    "..." Sneaking a nce at Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan whispered, "Grandpa, honestly, I¡¯m not really sure..."

    "Weren¡¯t you with him?" the old man pressed.

    "But I wasn¡¯t... not exactly together..." Su Qingnuan mumbled softly.

    "What¡¯s with the chatter?" Fu Yihan said coldly. "I went out on my own today. Any more questions?"

    Frowning at Fu Yihan¡¯s impatient tone, the old master¡¯s face darkened.

    "Listen to your attitude! I haven¡¯t said anything yet, and you already behave like this."

    With a hint of amusement, Fu Yihan nced at him and said, "Then how does the old master think I should behave?"

    "...Polite, outstanding, and very gentle," the old man dered firmly.

    Fu Yihan smirked coolly. "Then I¡¯m afraid you¡¯re addressing the wrong grandson."

    With that, he pressed the elevator¡¯s close button.

    "Hey, hey!" The old master quickly blocked the door, eximing, "I haven¡¯t finished talking to you! Why are you trying to leave?"

    "If you have something to say, just say it. What is it?"

    "It¡¯s about what we discussed earlier¡ªreturning to thepany. Have you thought it over?" The old man¡¯s eyes sparkled with mischief.

    Frowning, Fu Yihan replied, "Thought about what? I never said I¡¯d return to thepany. Stop overthinking it."

    "What?" The old master¡¯s eyes widened in shock. "That¡¯s not what you said before!"

    "Are youing upstairs?" Fu Yihan asked.

    The old man hesitated for a moment before shaking his head. "No."

    "Then, kindly step out. I¡¯m going up."

    "..."

    Under the disdainful gaze of Fu Yihan, the old master exited reluctantly, standing by the door and staring at him with grievance.

    Yet, unhurriedly, Fu Yihan closed the door,pletely ignoring the old man outside.

    The elevator stopped, and Fu Yihan wheeled himself out.

    "Su Qingnuan."

    "Yes?" Su Qingnuan straightened immediately. "I¡¯m here!"

 Chapter 117 The Deserved Punishment

    <h4>Chapter 117: Chapter 117 The Deserved Punishment</h4>

    "Are you doing okay at thepany?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned, then quickly nodded. "It¡¯s fine. Is there something you want me to do, Mr. Fu?"

    "Not really, but just remember, if someone bullies you at thepany, I won¡¯t help you."

    "...Understood. I won¡¯t trouble you, Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan said quietly, her head lowered, voice subdued.

    "Good to know."

    With that, he turned and entered the house.

    Aqi tilted his head, looking at the dejected Su Qingnuan, and sighed helplessly. "That¡¯s just how the Eldest Young Master is. Please don¡¯t take it to heart, Young Madam."

    Su Qingnuan looked up and gave a faint smile. "Why would I take it to heart? I¡¯ve never cared about these things."

    "...Hmm."

    Watching Su Qingnuan pick up her belongings and head toward the house, Aqi shook his head wearily.

    Inside, Fu Yihan¡¯s room was closed. The quiet house felt like a chilling void, making it hard for one to resist the urge to flee.

    Su Qingnuan quietly moved past, tip-toeing her way back to her own room. Once there, she sat down.

    This was her space. Yet, the good mood she had from work today waspletely wiped away by just a sentence or two from Fu Yihan.

    With a small sigh, Su Qingnuan quickly washed up and got herself into bed to rest.

    Don¡¯t let these trivial things bother you. Focus on doing your own work¡ªthat¡¯s what matters most.

    Thinking this, Su Qingnuan gradually stopped dwelling on it.

    The next day, when Su Qingnuan went downstairs, she found that Fu Yihan was already gone.

    "Did he leave on his own?" Su Qingnuan leaned over the back of a chair, looking curiously at Aqi.

    Aqi nodded with a light smile. "Mr. Fu said he didn¡¯t want to go to thepany with you, Young Madam, so he took the car and left earlier."

    "...." Su Qingnuan felt a pang of disappointment but quickly collected herself. "Go to thepany? Mr. Fu is actually heading to thepany today?"

    "That¡¯s right." Aqi nodded. "The Eldest Young Master hasn¡¯t been to thepany in ages¡ªit¡¯s about time he went and checked in."

    "..."

    How capricious! Such a bigpany, and he just decides whether to go or not on a whim.

    Is this what they mean by the privilege of the wealthy? Or is it the freedom born of capability?

    Whatever the case, realizing she might encounter Fu Yihan at thepany today, Su Qingnuan started feeling a bit uneasy.

    Yesterday she had even imed to be doing fine at thepany¡ªwhat if he found out otherwise?

    With such mixed emotions, she entered thepany building.

    She spent the entire morning in the archive room, and nothing unusual happened. When lunchtime arrived, she and Gu Xiaoxiao went out to eat together.

    As they walked toward the lobby, they noticed a group of people gathering ahead. Gu Xiaoxiao tugged at Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand. "What¡¯s going on over there? Let¡¯s go check it out!"

    "...What¡¯s there to see?" Su Qingnuan, being led by Gu Xiaoxiao, said resignedly, "You really can¡¯t resist getting involved."

    Gu Xiaoxiao, grinning mischievously, strode forward.

    When they reached the edge of the crowd, Gu Xiaoxiao tiptoed to get a better view, then suddenly turned around.

    "What is it?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion.

    Gu Xiaoxiao pointed toward someone in the middle of the group, eximing, "Look quickly, who do you think that is?"

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s incredulous expression, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t resist taking a look herself, standing on tiptoe.

    A woman was sweeping the floor not far away, broom in hand.

    The figure looked eerily familiar.

    "Is that..." Su Qingnuan stood frozen, dumbfounded.

    "Told you, right?!" Gu Xiaoxiao ecstatically patted her shoulder, lowering her voice. "It¡¯s her, isn¡¯t it?!"

    Su Qingnuan hastily pressed a hand over Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s mouth. "Stop talking nonsense! There are so many people here."

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded, her eyes gleaming with a strange light.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao by the arm and pulled her toward the cafeteria.

    "Hey, what do you think is going on? Why is she suddenly down there sweeping the floor?" Gu Xiaoxiao evaded some passersby and whispered.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "How would I know?"

    "Could it be that Manager Huang found out what she did to us? Maybe he pretended to tell us to ept it, but secretly took action to punish her?"

    Stopping in her tracks, Su Qingnuan turned toward Gu Xiaoxiao. "Have some kind of family connection with Manager Huang, do you?"

    "...No."

    "Then why would Manager Huang help you out?"

    "No, that¡¯s not what I¡¯m saying." Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled, cing a hand on Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder. "I was just specting. Don¡¯t take it seriously."

    "If I took it seriously, would I still be standing here bantering with you?"

    "...Fair point."

    With a sigh, Su Qingnuan averted her gaze and said solemnly, "Let¡¯s forget about it and eat properly."

    "Alright..."

    With her head down, Su Qingnuan ate her meal as calmly as she could.

    Outwardly, she seemedposed, but internally, her mind was inplete turmoil.

    Was it really her...

    But that person had explicitly told herst night that they wouldn¡¯t interfere in her work matters. That didn¡¯t seem right, did it?

    The more she thought about it, the more her brow furrowed.

    Fu Yihan came to thepany today, and immediately that person was punished¡ªno matter how she looked at it, this wasn¡¯t a coincidence.

    If it had been Gu Xiaoxiao instead of her, the other woman would have spun an entire novel¡¯s worth of narrative by now.

    She needed to find a moment to ask for rificationter.

    Having made up her mind, Su Qingnuan began eating faster.

    "Hey, hey! Why are you eating so fast?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, puzzled.

    Setting her chopsticks down, Su Qingnuan replied, "I¡¯m done. You finish your meal. I¡¯m heading to Manager Huang¡¯s office."

    "Hey¡ª?"

    Ignoring Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shouts behind her, Su Qingnuan jogged out of the cafeteria.

    She headed straight to Manager Huang¡¯s office on the upper floor, where it was said the CEO¡¯s office was located as well.

    After circling around, she didn¡¯t find anyone.

    Just as she was about to head downstairs, a familiar figure flitted past the stairwell.

    "Aqi?" Su Qingnuan called out hastily.

    The figure stopped in their tracks and turned around.

    "Aqi!" Su Qingnuan approached, smiling faintly. "What are you doing here? Where¡¯s Mr. Fu?"

    "Mr. Fu is resting. I was going to get him some food," Aqi answered solemnly.

    "...Um." Su Qingnuan hesitated, lowering her gaze. "That teacher who manages the interns at ourpany is cleaning downstairs now. This... about this..."

    A hint of a smile tugged at Aqi¡¯s lips. "Are you trying to ask if this has anything to do with the Eldest Young Master?"

    "...Yes."

    "It doesn¡¯t."

    "Really? But..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes were tinged with suspicion as she looked at Aqi, clearly unconvinced.

    Chuckling softly, Aqi replied, "It really has nothing to do with him. During the morning meeting, Manager Huang brought up this matter, and everyone voted on it."

    "...So it really was Manager Huang," Su Qingnuan murmured in realization.

    "What did you say, Young Madam?"

    "Nothing...nothing." Embarrassed, Su Qingnuan smiled. "Well then, I won¡¯t disturb you. Go ahead and take care of your business. Otherwise, when Mr. Fu wakes up and can¡¯t find you, he¡¯ll get anxious."

    Upon hearing this, Aqi¡¯s initially serious expression flickered with a trace of something deeper.

    "You¡¯re right, Young Madam. In that case, I have a favor to ask."

    "Sure, what is it?"

 Chapter 118 Care

    <h4>Chapter 118: Chapter 118 Care</h4>

    "I¡¯m heading out to buy lunch for Mr. Fu right now. There¡¯s only one person in his office, so I¡¯m not feeling too reassured. Could I trouble you, Eldest Young Madam..."

    A Qi looked at Su Qingnuan hesitantly, as if struggling to find the right words.

    Anyone with eyes could see that Su Qingnuan was afraid of Fu Yihan¡ªasking her to look after him was undeniably challenging.

    Sure enough, Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression turned troubled.

    "I¡¯ll be back very soon." A Qi whispered, "Just this once, Eldest Young Madam. I¡¯ll be forever indebted to you!"

    Her gaze fell on A Qi¡¯s usuallyposed face, which now conveyed a trace of expectation.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment before nodding slightly and saying, "Alright then, just this once."

    "Great! Just this once!"

    A Qi handed Su Qingnuan the key and, with light, quick steps, continued downstairs.

    Looking down at the key in her palm, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and stepped upwards.

    It turned out that Fu Yihan¡¯s office wasn¡¯t on the same floor as Manager Huang¡¯s¡ªit was upstairs.

    It was said that the top floor housed a luxurious suite, prepared specifically for the CEO.

    So, was Fu Yihan resting in that suite?

    Walking softly upstairs, Su Qingnuan spotted the reddish-brown door. She took out the key and carefully unlocked it with gentle movements.

    The room was quiet. The marble floors beneath her feet were so clean they reflected her face.

    The decor in ck and white felt minimalist yet carried a hint of coldness.

    Sure enough, it was Fu Yihan¡¯s preferred style.

    She cautiously strolled around the spacious living room, but aside from the size, there didn¡¯t seem to be any notable changes.

    She didn¡¯t dare enter the rooms on either side¡ªif she identally woke Fu Yihan while he was sleeping, she wouldn¡¯t dare take responsibility.

    With this thought, Su Qingnuan sat down in the living room.

    The room was flooded with sunlight, and even though she wasn¡¯t purposefully sitting outside, Su Qingnuan could still feel the warmth of the sun.

    After running around in the archives all morning, this moment of respite felt like a rare little indulgence.

    The fresh scent filled her nostrils, and the warm air enveloped her, making her feel drowsy.

    Leaning against the couch, Su Qingnuan unknowingly drifted into sleep.

    She wasn¡¯t sure how much time had passed, but when she awoke, she felt a distinct warmth, even sweat forming on her forehead.

    As she opened her eyes slowly, she was met with the sight of fair skin, causing her to briefly lose herposure.

    "Awake?" The man asked coldly.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then quickly sat up. "Mr. Fu? You¡¯re awake?"

    Fu Yihan sat in a wheelchair, his face serious, staring directly at her.

    "Why are you here?" Fu Yihan asked in a cold voice.

    "A Qi asked me toe up and check on..."

    "Where¡¯s A Qi?" Fu Yihan interrupted.

    Head lowered, Su Qingnuan replied with a hint of grievance, "She went to buy lunch for you."

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "It¡¯s already two o¡¯clock, and she¡¯s still not back?"

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head to check the time, realizing it was indeed past two.

    "I didn¡¯t realize. Let me call and ask her."

    With that, Su Qingnuan stood up, picked up the phone nearby, and dialed A Qi¡¯s number.

    The phone rang for a long time before someone finally picked up at thest moment.

    "Hello? Eldest Young Madam?" A Qi¡¯s voice sounded faint and indistinct.

    "A Qi." Su Qingnuan nced at the man sitting in front of her, asking, "When will you be back?"

    "I¡¯m stuck in traffic right now. It¡¯ll take a while. Is the Eldest Young Master awake?"

    "He¡¯s awake and looking for you! Please hurry back," Su Qingnuan said quickly.

    "Alright."

    After hanging up, Su Qingnuan turned to Fu Yihan. "Mr. Fu, she¡¯s stuck in traffic but is trying to get back as soon as she can."

    Fu Yihan nodded and maneuvered his wheelchair to turn away.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan quickly stood and followed him.

    At the door to his resting room, Fu Yihan stopped and looked questioningly at Su Qingnuan. "Why are you following me?"

    "...Oh, I just wanted to see if there¡¯s anything you need."

    "I don¡¯t need anything. Leave."

    "Oh... okay..."

    Su Qingnuan retreated and returned to the sofa to sit down again.

    She sat quietly, her gaze nk. Clearly, she hadn¡¯t fully shaken off the lingering effects of her dream.

    "Bang¨C"

    The sudden loud noise caught Su Qingnuan¡¯s attention.

    Turning her head, she saw Fu Yihan sitting at the door, his face livid.

    Startled, she quickly stood up. "Mr. Fu, what¡¯s wrong?"

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan sneered, "You were sent here to take care of me, but instead, you¡¯re lounging and resting. Were you nning to ck off?"

    "...But just now, didn¡¯t you..."

    "That was then." Fu Yihan¡¯s face remainedposed, his gaze locked on her. "Now I¡¯ve changed my mind."

    "..."

    Sure enough, he was the capricious type. Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly and stood up.

    "Alright, Mr. Fu. Do you need anything?"

    "Need would be too strong a word. But I¡¯ll trouble you to turn on the TV for me. I want to watch television."

    Watch television? Doesn¡¯t this man rarely watch TV?

    Though puzzled, Su Qingnuan walked over to the TV and slowly turned it on.

    Handing the remote to Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan smiled gently. "Mr. Fu, anything else you need?"

    "Pour me a ss of water," he said.

    "Okay."

    After bringing him the water, Su Qingnuan asked if there were any further requests. Fu Yihan pointed to the spot next to him. "Sit."

    Su Qingnuan had no choice but to sit down.

    The spacious living room echoed only with the sounds of the television.

    Su Qingnuan watched the TV for a while before suddenly turning her head to look at Fu Yihan.

    The man was staring straight ahead. She thought he didn¡¯t notice her, but in an instant, his voice rang out.

    "What are you doing?"

    "...Nothing," Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her gaze, smiling faintly. "It¡¯s nothing."

    Judging by his attitude, he certainly wouldn¡¯t give her a straight answer, would he?

    She had actually intended to ask about today¡¯s meeting, but she reconsidered.

    It was a high-level meeting; as a lower-rank employee, she wasn¡¯t qualified to know.

    Thinking this, Su Qingnuan felt relieved.

    She turned back to watch TV until a distant ringing sounded.

    Su Qingnuan quickly ran to open the door.

    "A Qi, why are you..."

    Her voice suddenly stopped as she stared at the person outside in shock. The person outside stared back at her, equally surprised.

    After a long pause, Su Qingnuan recovered and quickly said, "Manager Huang, hello."

    "...Why are you here?" he asked with a frown.

    Su Qingnuan forced a smile and nced back at the person seated in the living room. "A Qi went out to buy something, and she asked me to look after Mr. Fu."

    "Look after him?" Manager Huang¡¯s expression turnedplicated as he scrutinized her. "You seem close to A Qi?"

    "Sort of... I guess?"

    "Why do you sound so uncertain?"

    Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile and replied, "Because I¡¯m not sure myself whether we¡¯re close or not."

    Hearing her rambling response, Manager Huang furrowed his brow slightly.

    Fortunately, he didn¡¯t probe further. Holding a folder, he walked inside.

    "Mr. Fu." Manager Huang stood respectfully by Fu Yihan¡¯s side and handed him the folder. "There¡¯s a document requiring your signature personally."

 Chapter 119: It Doesnéˆ¥æª› Matter

    <h4>Chapter 119: Chapter 119: It Doesn¡¯t Matter</h4>

    Casually lifting his head, Fu Yihan nced at him and asked indifferently, "Just one copy?"

    "Yes, just one copy."

    Taking the document, Fu Yihan pulled out a pen from who-knows-where and boldly signed his name.

    Manager Huang hesitated slightly before asking, "Mr. Fu, aren¡¯t you going to check it first?"

    "There¡¯s nothing worth checking." Fu Yihan handed the document back to Manager Huang with an unconcerned tone. "It¡¯s not like it¡¯s some big deal."

    "Exactly..." Manager Huang gave a bitter smile. "Ourpany hasn¡¯t had any big deals in a long time."

    Seeing the hopeful look in his eyes, Fu Yihan curved his lips, his expression ambiguous as he looked at him.

    "Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯lle."

    Manager Huang, confronted with Fu Yihan¡¯s optimism, found himself speechless, silently epting the document and turning to leave.

    When he saw Su Qingnuan standing by the doorway, Manager Huang snapped back to reality and turned around once more.

    "Mr. Fu, you and this Miss Su are...?"

    "Nothing at all." Fu Yihan¡¯s expression turned cold. "She¡¯s just here to help."

    "...Understood."

    Manager Huang respectfully bowed and left.

    Passing by Su Qingnuan, Manager Huang greeted her with a smile.

    "You¡¯re Su Qingnuan, right? I still remember from your self-introductionst time."

    "Yes, Manager Huang." Su Qingnuan smiled lightly. "I didn¡¯t expect you to remember me. I¡¯m deeply honored."

    Manager Huang chuckled, nced back toward Fu Yihan¡¯s direction, and whispered, "The task of taking care of Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll leave it to you. Good luck!"

    "Will do, thank you, Manager Huang."

    After seeing Manager Huang off, Su Qingnuan exhaled slightly in relief.

    The way Manager Huang had looked at her earlier was rather odd. Luckily, he was gone now, so she no longer had to deal with that gaze.

    Turning back, she found the man still watching television.

    Quietly, she tiptoed over and sat down beside him.

    "I heard you went to see Manager Huang personally to ask about the intern issue?"

    The sudden question caught Su Qingnuan off guard for a moment.

    Realizing what he said, she turned to him in surprise.

    "How did Mr. Fu know?"

    "Not only do I know, but the entirepany¡¯s upper management is aware."

    "..." Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly. "It wasn¡¯t really my intention. It¡¯s just that the task assigned by the instructor was honestly unreasonable, so Xiaoxiao and I decided to see Manager Huang."

    Setting down the remote control, Fu Yihan eyed Su Qingnuan, noticing her hand already gripping the hem of her clothes.

    Frowning slightly, his tone turned cold. "What are you nervous about?"

    "Huh? I¡¯m... I¡¯m not nervous."

    Su Qingnuan clutched her clothes tighter, smiling faintly. "I just suddenly don¡¯t know how to respond to that."

    Raising an eyebrow, Fu Yihan replied, "Just answer as it is. Or do you think I¡¯ll make things difficult for you?"

    "No... not at all."

    Seeing how tense she was, with her head nearly bowed to the ground, Fu Yihan frowned even deeper.

    Was he really that scary?

    Retracting his gaze, his voice grew even colder. "Forget it. You can go now."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan eximed in shock. "But A-Qi hasn¡¯t returned yet."

    "If he hasn¡¯t returned, he hasn¡¯t returned. It¡¯s not like I have no hands; I can manage on my own."

    With that, Fu Yihan turned and wheeled himself inside.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The door shut heavily.

    Staring at the closed door, Su Qingnuan felt a bit helpless. Had she said something wrong again?

    She had intended to say something pleasant to make Fu Yihan happy, but it seemed to have backfired.

    With a soft sigh, Su Qingnuan got up and turned off the television.

    She didn¡¯t leave but sat quietly in the living room, listening to the movements in the other room until A-Qi returned.

    "Young Madam?" A-Qi looked at Su Qingnuan in confusion before ncing around. "Where¡¯s the Eldest Young Master?"

    Pointing toward his bedroom, Su Qingnuan replied helplessly, "He went in. A moment ago, he got upset again for some reason."

    "Upset again?" A-Qi said with even more confusion. "What did you do to make Mr. Fu angry this time?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head bitterly. "I don¡¯t know either."

    If she knew, it wouldn¡¯t have happened again.

    Seeing her helpless expression, A-Qi chuckled. "Young Madam, actually, the Eldest Young Master is quite easy to please."

    "Hmm?" Su Qingnuan looked at him in surprise. "How so?"

    Handing the takeout box to her, A-Qi whispered, "Why don¡¯t you send it in to him?"

    "..."

    Staring at the takeout for a while, Su Qingnuan shook her head.

    "Forget it. He¡¯s already upset. If I go in there, I¡¯ll only irritate him more."

    "It¡¯s okay. Trust me."

    With that, A-Qi pushed the food container toward her.

    But Fu Yihan paused and shook her head firmly. "No, now that you¡¯re back, it¡¯s better if you take it in."

    She took a step back, her reluctance evident.

    A-Qi looked at her for a moment before sighing. "Fine. Well, thank you for your help today, Young Madam."

    "You¡¯re wee."

    Su Qingnuan forced a smile, sidestepping A-Qi and heading for the door. "Since you¡¯re back, I¡¯ll take my leave."

    "Alright."

    Watching Su Qingnuan leave, A-Qi turned to knock on Fu Yihan¡¯s door.

    The tightly closed door opened slowly, revealing Fu Yihan behind it.

    "Eldest Young Master, lunch has arrived."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled slightly in a cold smile. "You went quite far."

    A-Qi nodded respectfully. "As per your instructions, I went to your favorite ce."

    Having nothing more to say, Fu Yihan wheeled himself out.

    His eyes instinctively swept the room but did not see her, and his expression darkened.

    Noticing this, A-Qi whispered, "The Young Madam said she still had work this afternoon, so she left first."

    "Hmph! The records room can¡¯t spin without her?"

    A-Qi said nothing, his face nk as he began unpacking the food container.

    "Eldest Young Master,e eat."

    "Hmm."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan returned to the records room and saw Gu Xiaoxiao bustling about. She hurried over to help.

    "Qingnuan?" Gu Xiaoxiao paused, quickly approaching and whispering, "Where have you been? Do you know we¡¯ve been looking for you everywhere!"

    "Looking for me?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion. "What for? I just found a spot to take a nap."

    "...Look at the time. What do you think I was looking for you for?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at her watch and realized it was already past three.

    So she had overslept.

    Hurriedly, she put things down and whispered, "I overslept. I¡¯ll go apologize to the boss."

    "...No need." Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed her and said helplessly, "Someone already took care of that for you."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan froze. "Who? Who helped me?"

    "...A-Qi."

    Gu Xiaoxiao knew A-Qi too, but she couldn¡¯t understand why he had stepped in to handle this for Su Qingnuan. Could it be the person on that side missed Su Qingnuan?

    Thinking along these lines, Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly leaned closer to Su Qingnuan with a sly grin. "Be honest, did your family¡¯s Eldest Young Mastere to see you?"

 Chapter 120 The Fired Intern

    <h4>Chapter 120: Chapter 120 The Fired Intern</h4>

    "...Nonsense!"

    Pushing away the overly nosy Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan chuckled, "Do you need to check on me? I¡¯m not skipping town, you know."

    "Exactly! I¡¯m puzzled too. You said you..."

    "Alright, alright." Su Qingnuan interrupted Gu Xiaoxiao just in time, sighing helplessly, "I know what you¡¯re about to say, so just zip it. This isn¡¯t what it looks like."

    "Then how should I see it?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, her curiosity piqued.

    Su Qingnuan fell silent for a moment, then shook her head. "Let¡¯s not talk about this. Hurry up! Don¡¯t you have work to finish?"

    "Oh right!" Gu Xiaoxiao handed the items in her hands to Su Qingnuan. "Since you¡¯re back, I¡¯ll pass these to you. I¡¯ve still got a pile of stuff waiting for me over there!"

    With that, she turned and disappeared into the records room.

    Su Qingnuan carried the files back to the office, only to find all the records room staffpletely swamped with work.

    Who knows what sort of whims possessed the boss, suddenly deciding topile all past project records into a systematized archive.

    Isn¡¯t this just making life difficult for the records staff?

    And with a one-week deadline no less. So now everyone in the records department was frantically buried in documents.

    They worked non-stop until the end of the day, when the boss finally waved them off, urging them to head home.

    nning to work overtime, both Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao were nheless shooed out by the boss.

    Strolling out leisurely with their things, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed, "I finally get why our boss can only manage the records room."

    Su Qingnuan chuckled, "Why is that?"

    "Because they enjoy life too much." Gu Xiaoxiao said seriously. "Just look at our boss¡ªno matter what¡¯s going on, when it¡¯s quitting time, there¡¯s absolutely nopromise."

    "Haha!"

    Su Qingnuanughed out loud, covering her mouth.

    The two joked and chatted as they walked out, only to find a crowd gathered in the main hall.

    "Hey? What¡¯s going on this time?" Gu Xiaoxiao said excitedly as she rushed over.

    Seeing her dart off before anyone could stop her, Su Qingnuan had no choice but to follow.

    "Hey, what¡¯s happening here?"

    "Who knows, I heard..."

    "Is it true?"

    Low murmurs filled the air. As Su Qingnuan approached, she noticed that many passersby were looking at them with peculiar expressions.

    Oblivious, Gu Xiaoxiao had already pushed her way into the crowd.

    She squeezed forward, finally seeing what had been pasted on the bulletin board.

    With a look of sheer astonishment, Gu Xiaoxiao turned and hurriedly pushed her way back out.

    Noticing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s wide-eyed expression as she emerged, Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled, "Why are you back so soon?"

    "...I saw something big." Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shock hadn¡¯t yet worn off.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly. "What could possibly be that big of a deal?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao leaned close to Su Qingnuan, whispered a few words, and then retreated.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened as she stared incredulously at Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded, "Yep, it¡¯s already been announced."

    No wonder those people had been looking at Su Qingnuan like that earlier.

    Grabbing Gu Xiaoxiao by the hand, Su Qingnuan hurriedly headed for the exit.

    Gu Xiaoxiao didn¡¯t say anything, simply quickening her pace to leave with Su Qingnuan.

    Once outside the building, Su Qingnuan nced back, her brows knitting tightly together.

    "What do you make of this? That woman got demoted in the morning, and by the afternoon, those two interns were fired. What¡¯s going on here?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked eagerly, the moment they stopped.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head gravely. "I have no idea."

    "I saw the notice¡ªit said those two interns didn¡¯t fit with thepany¡¯s culture andcked camaraderie among colleagues. Isn¡¯t that referring to how they ignored us the other day?"

    "...It does seem that way." Su Qingnuanughed bitterly. "After everything that happened today, I¡¯m starting to feel like I must have someone pulling strings from behind the scenes."

    "Exactly!"

    The two of them sulked at the base of a tree, looking like a pair of abandoned puppies.

    "Beep¡ªbeep¡ªbeep¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan looked up, noticing for the first time that a car had pulled up in front of them.

    The driver¡¯s window rolled down, revealing Fu Yihan, who sat calmly, his gaze fixed on her.

    Hurriedly standing, Su Qingnuan walked over. "Ah Qi, Mr. Fu, are you both heading back as well?"

    The man said nothing, merely turning his head away.

    Ah Qi nced over and smiled. "Young Madam, get in the car."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, opening the door, only to turn back and look again.

    She saw Gu Xiaoxiao standing stiffly in ce, not daring to step forward.

    Sighing inwardly, Su Qingnuan opened the backseat door. Looking towards Fu Yihan, she spoke softly, "Mr. Fu, my friend is over there. Can she...?"

    Before she could finish her sentence, his icy gaze shifted toward her, cutting her off mid-thought.

    Letting out a silent sigh, Su Qingnuan turned toward Gu Xiaoxiao. "Xiaoxiao, I¡¯ll head back first."

    "Alright, go ahead."

    Su Qingnuan got into the car, but it didn¡¯t move.

    "Ah Qi?" Su Qingnuan asked doubtfully. "Aren¡¯t we leaving?"

    Ah Qi nced back at her, then looked toward Fu Yihan. "Mr. Fu, shall we go?"

    Fu Yihan spared him a cold nce, his voice indifferent. "Let her in."

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment.

    Seeing herck of reaction, Fu Yihan frowned.

    Noticing this, Su Qingnuan quickly lowered the car window just as he seemed ready to lose his temper.

    "Xiaoxiao!" Waving toward her friend, she motioned toward the passenger seat. "Hop in, we¡¯ll drop you off at school."

    Gu Xiaoxiao hesitated briefly and muttered, "Is that alright? I can get back on my own."

    "Hurry and get in!"

    While speaking, Su Qingnuan stole nces at Fu Yihan. Seeing that he wasn¡¯t upset, she finally exhaled a sigh of relief.

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s urging, Gu Xiaoxiao finally boarded the car.

    "Thank you so much, Mr. Fu!" Gu Xiaoxiao said politely.

    Fu Yihan kept his gaze lowered, replying indifferently with a simple "Mm."

    His cold demeanor instantly dampened the atmosphere in the car.

    Understanding his usual temperament, Su Qingnuan smiled apologetically at Gu Xiaoxiao before pulling out her phone to send a discreet text.

    Su Qingnuan: That¡¯s just how he is, don¡¯t take it to heart.

    Momentster, her phone buzzed with a response.

    Xiaoxiao: Got it, don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t mind.

    Su Qingnuan: Thanks for understanding!

    Xiaoxiao: Poor you though. Sure, he¡¯s handsome, but dealing with his cold-face routine every day must be tough.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled to herself as her fingers flew over her phone¡¯s keyboard.

    Su Qingnuan: Honestly, it¡¯s not too bad. As long as I avoid provoking him, everything¡¯s fine.

    Xiaoxiao: Listening to you, I feel like you two don¡¯t seem like a married couple¡ªmore like boss and subordinate?

    Su Qingnuan: Well, you¡¯re not wrong to see it that way.

    Xiaoxiao: What, are you guys starring in a real-life "rich family melodrama" with a contract marriage thrown in?

    "Cough¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan covered her mouth, sneaking a nce at Fu Yihan and finding him staring at her. She quickly exined, "I choked on my own spit."

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan ordered, "Ah Qi, water."

    Ah Qi pressed a button, and suddenly, a section of the seatback in front of Su Qingnuan popped open to reveal apartment.

 Chapter 121 The Road to Recovery

    <h4>Chapter 121: Chapter 121 The Road to Recovery</h4>

    There were neatly arranged bottles of mineral water and other beverages inside.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan and silently chose a bottle of mineral water, grabbing an extra one for the person in front.

    Witnessing Su Qingnuan¡¯s actions, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say anything and turned his head away.

    After dropping Gu Xiaoxiao back at school, Aqi turned the car around and headed back to the Fu residence.

    The old master wasn¡¯t home, and as soon as Fu Yihan entered the house, he went straight upstairs.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated downstairs for a while but eventually decided to head to the kitchen.

    The good impression she had worked so hard to build over the past couple of days couldn¡¯t just disappear like this.

    Finding the housekeeper, Su Qingnuan offered a gentle smile and said, "Auntie, is there anything I can use today to learn how to make soup?"

    The housekeeper froze for a moment and frowned, "We didn¡¯t buy anything particrly good today, so it might be hard to manage."

    "Hmm?" Su Qingnuan questioned in confusion, "Didn¡¯t you say you go shopping for fresh ingredients every day?"

    The members of the Fu family were notoriously picky eaters. If the ingredients weren¡¯t fresh, Fu Yihan and the others definitely wouldn¡¯t eat them. So Su Qingnuan found it strange when the housekeeper said there weren¡¯t good ingredients prepared.

    The housekeeper responded with a bitter smile, "This weekend, the second young master said he ns to host a banquet at home and asked us to start preparing ahead of time. We spent the day at the market shopping for that, which is why we weren¡¯t able to prepare for any meals today."

    "A banquet?"

    She hadn¡¯t heard anything about a banquet.

    "Yes, apparently, the second young master invited people from hispany. It¡¯s supposedly an internal meeting."

    "... Company insiders?" Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows, suddenly sensing something off.

    "That¡¯s right, that¡¯s what the second young master mentioned. But as for the specifics, it¡¯s not really something we servants have the privilege to inquire about."

    Noticing the housekeeper¡¯s cautious demeanor, Su Qingnuan smiled lightly and said, "I understand, Auntie. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t gossip about it."

    "... Thank you, Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife."

    Leaving the kitchen, Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment before heading upstairs.

    There was no one in the room. After ncing around, she decided to walk toward the study.

    The study door was tightly shut, and Su Qingnuan knocked lightly.

    After a moment, the door opened from the inside.

    Aqi stood at the door with a serious expression. "Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife, do you need something?"

    "I have something to discuss." Su Qingnuan peeked into the room but was blocked by Aqi. "What is Eldest Young Master doing inside?"

    "Nothing much." Aqi deliberately shielded the view of the room. "If you have anything to say, please mention it here directly."

    "... " Seeing Aqi¡¯s guarded demeanor, Su Qingnuan felt inexplicably puzzled.

    She hadn¡¯t done anything, but why was he giving her that kind of look?

    "It¡¯s nothing serious. I just heard something from Auntie and wanted to ask Mr. Fu if he knows about it."

    "What is it?"

    Still maintaining his formal expression, Aqi¡¯s serious attitude made Su Qingnuan frown slightly.

    "Can¡¯t I speak directly to Mr. Fu?"

    Aqi said nothing and turned to nce inside.

    Whatever the person inside might have indicated, Aqi stepped to the side the next moment.

    "Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife, pleasee in."

    "... "

    Such a quick change in attitude?

    It¡¯s often said that a woman¡¯s heart is like a needle at the bottom of the ocean, but in Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes, Fu Yihan¡¯s mood seemed even more unpredictable.

    Walking cautiously inside, Su Qingnuan saw Fu Yihan standing by the bedside.

    Yes, he was standing, but oddly enough, he wasn¡¯t standing on his own.

    Behind him stood a structure supporting his waist, while his legs rested against custom-made equipment, enabling this upright position.

    ncing at Aqi, the man walked over with an impassive face to assist Fu Yihan into a seated position.

    "You wanted to see me?" Beads of light sweat dotted Fu Yihan¡¯s forehead, though they weren¡¯t too conspicuous.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, hesitating before speaking, "I just heard from Auntie that the second young master ns to host a banquet this weekend for a supposed internalpany meeting."

    "Company internal?" Fu Yihan raised his brows and sneered. "Whichpany¡¯s internal meeting?"

    "... I¡¯m not sure either, so I wanted to ask if Mr. Fu knows anything about it."

    Giving her a faintly sarcastic look, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze. "I know what you¡¯re trying to hint at. I wasn¡¯t informed about it, but now that you¡¯ve told me, I guess that makes me aware."

    "... "

    While speaking, his gaze was fixed out the window, as if he were simultaneously being truthful and aloof, letting his words flow without much thought.

    Seeing that she had fallen silent, Fu Yihan turned back to her.

    "Anything else?"

    "No... no, that¡¯s all."

    "If there¡¯s nothing, then leave."

    "Alright then."

    As she turned to leave, Su Qingnuan closed the door and caught a glimpse of Aqi helping Fu Yihan into a standing position once more.

    Her mind involuntarily shed to the memory of that night¡ªFu Yihan¡¯s determined figure.

    When it came to regaining the ability to stand, Fu Yihan truly wouldn¡¯t give up.

    "Click¡ª"

    The door closed softly, and Su Qingnuan stared at the reddish-brown door for a moment, silently averting her gaze.

    Returning to the room, she propped her chin on her hand and zoned out for a while.

    The doctor had said his legs were beyond saving, and he would never stand again for the rest of his life.

    Yet thest time Shen Zhiliu had performed acupuncture on him, his legs had clearly responded.

    Could it be that Western medicine was ineffective, but traditional Chinese medicine could work?

    With this thought, Su Qingnuan quickly grabbed her phone and began searching for information on TCM recovery methods.

    There were countless therapies involving acupuncture stimtion online.

    But among all the information, there was a mix of good and bad practices, and after filtering through, there were only a few viable options.

    She wrote down the promising methods in a notebook to research further at the office the next day using thepanyputer.

    Carefully storing the notebook, she locked it in a drawer.

    At dawn, Su Qingnuan woke up early but didn¡¯t see Fu Yihan.

    On the way to work, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but ask, "Is Mr. Fu not going to thepany today?"

    Through the rearview mirror, Aqi noticed Su Qingnuan¡¯s concerned expression and smiled faintly. "Not today. The Eldest Young Master was worn out from trainingst night and couldn¡¯t get up this morning."

    "Training?" Su Qingnuan leaned forward against the backrest and asked softly, "You said earlier that the Eldest Young Master¡¯s legs wouldn¡¯t recover. Is that true?"

    "Hmm." Aqi nodded and sighed, "Although the doctor said so, the Eldest Young Master refuses to give up."

    That was indeed typical of Fu Yihan.

    Su Qingnuan nodded thoughtfully and then asked, "So has Mr. Fu ever tried seeking treatment through traditional Chinese medicine?"

    "Traditional Chinese medicine?" Aqi nced at her curiously. "Does the Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife have any suggestions? In fact, both Chinese and Western therapies have been tried, but neither has been effective."

    So even TCM had been attempted?

    That didn¡¯t seem right...

    "I read online that acupuncture could stimte the nerves in his legs and help restore their activity. I was thinking that might be worth trying."

    Aqi smiled bitterly, shaking his head. "It¡¯s useless. Although it wasn¡¯t specifically acupuncture, many TCM stimtion methods have already been tried."

    Unconvinced, Aqi ended the topic.

    Su Qingnuan urged a bit more but, seeing Aqi¡¯s resolute expression, had no choice but to drop the matter.

    After dropping Su Qingnuan off at thepany entrance, Aqi drove away.

 Chapter 122 Divergent Thoughts

    <h4>Chapter 122: Chapter 122 Divergent Thoughts</h4>

    Gu Xiaoxiao jogged toward thepany, but halfway there, she suddenly stopped and stepped back a few paces.

    Not far ahead, Su Yuerou was walking forward slowly, her brows furrowed.

    "Yuerou?" Gu Xiaoxiao halted and walked over quickly. "What are you thinking about? Aren¡¯t you in a hurry?"

    "Huh?" Su Yuerou snapped out of her thoughts and looked at Gu Xiaoxiao in confusion.

    Gu Xiaoxiao tugged her arm and said helplessly, "Still in the mood for a stroll? Hurry up, we¡¯re going to bete!"

    Pulling herself together, Su Yuerou nodded and ran into thepany with Gu Xiaoxiao.

    The two of them entered the archives room, chatting andughing, only to find their boss inside, smiling apologetically at someone.

    "Oh, you¡¯re here!"

    The boss grinned cheerfully when she saw them. "Manager Huang, see, I told you they¡¯d be here soon."

    "Yuerou, Xiaoxiao,e over here."

    The two naturally noticed Manager Huang standing opposite their boss. The man, dressed sharply in business attire, was smiling faintly.

    "Manager Huang, hello," Su Yuerou greeted politely.

    Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao quickly followed suit with a greeting.

    Manager Huang nodded slightly, his gaze shifting between the two of them.

    "I heard from your boss that you¡¯ve been doing quite well in the archives room."

    They¡¯ve only been there a few days¡ªwhat achievements could they possibly have?

    Su Yuerou smiled faintly. "Our boss loves to praise others, that¡¯s all."

    The boss red at her and chuckled. "If you two weren¡¯t working so hard, would I have reason to praise you? Yesterday, these two girls were a big help, finding documents and organizing everything."

    Manager Huang nodded in satisfaction and smiled. "Alright, here¡¯s the n: once the work in the archives room is finished, you two will transfer directly to the R&D department. Someone there will guide you."

    The R&D department?

    That was the core department of the entire ITpany!

    The two of them stared at Manager Huang, stunned, unable to process how joy could arrive so swiftly.

    "Hey, hey! Why are you two just standing there like statues?" The boss nudged Su Yuerou anxiously. "Hurry and thank Manager Huang!"

    Snapping out of their daze, the two hurriedly bowed their heads in gratitude.

    Manager Huang smiled. "No need to thank me. It¡¯s natural for interns to rotate between departments and learn as much as they can."

    After delivering this delightful news, Manager Huang left.

    Watching Manager Huang¡¯s departing figure, Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t help but sigh with admiration. "Manager Huang truly deserves his title¡ªhe has eyes that see through everyone."

    Seeing her look of reverence, Su Yuerou patted her shoulder helplessly.

    "Alright, stop idolizing him. See that? There¡¯s still a mountain of documents waiting for us over there!"

    "..."

    Following Su Yuerou¡¯s gaze, Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s excitement instantly deted like a balloon.

    The good news they received so early in the day ended up fueling their work ethic, perfectly embodying what it meant to be diligent and proactive.

    With their spirits high, Su Yuerou still had a smile on her face when she clocked out.

    Returning to the Fu residence, Su Yuerou asked Ah Qi, "Is the Eldest Young Master upstairs?"

    "In the study."

    Su Yuerou nodded and trotted into the kitchen.

    "Auntie, have the groceries been bought?" Su Yuerou asked with a cheerful smile.

    The housekeeper nodded quickly. "They¡¯re all here, not a single item missing. Take a look."

    "Alright, thank you, Auntie. Let¡¯s get started."

    With the housekeeper¡¯s help, Su Yuerou not only simmered a pot of soup but also prepared two side dishes.

    The side dishes were brightly colored and incredibly appetizing.

    Carrying her creations upstairs, Su Yuerou paused in front of the study.

    Ah Qi nced at the items in her hands with a faint smile. "The Young Madam is getting better and better at cooking."

    Su Yuerou chuckled and nced at the study. "Is Mr. Fu in a good mood today?"

    Ah Qi nodded. "He¡¯s alright."

    "That¡¯s good."

    With Ah Qi¡¯s assistance, Su Yuerou knocked on the door.

    A momentter, a cool voice came from inside.

    "Come in."

    Su Yuerou immediately grabbed the food container and pushed the door open.

    Fu Yihan was seated at his desk, frowning deeply as he studied something.

    Moving quietly to a nearby table, Su Yuerou spoke softly. "Mr. Fu, I made some soup. Would you like to take a break and have some?"

    The man, still frowning, finally lifted his head and looked at her questioningly.

    "Why soup?" he asked.

    "Huh?" Su Yuerou blinked, caught off guard. "I just... just felt like making soup."

    "Wanted to test your cooking skills?" Fu Yihan sneered. "Am I your guinea pig?"

    "No... no!"

    How could he interpret it that way? Flustered, Su Yuerou began to stammer, spouting a string of exnations, unsure of whether any of it made sense.

    Yet, as Su Yuerou became more anxious, Fu Yihan¡¯s expression softened.

    Staring at her flustered demeanor, a slight smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "Alright, stop exining. The more you exin, the worse it sounds."

    Su Yuerou forced a wry smile. "Mr. Fu, I truly didn¡¯t mean anything by it. This soup was made especially for you."

    "Hmm, I see. Bring it here."

    With his nonchnt expression and indifferent tone, it was as if he hadn¡¯t been the one interrogating her moments ago.

    Letting out a sigh of relief, Su Yuerou carried the food container over.

    After serving the soup andying out the side dishes, Su Yuerou smiled. "I also made some side dishes. Please give them a try."

    Fu Yihan nced at her with a hint of surprise in his eyes.

    Feeling a bit embarrassed, Su Yuerou exined, "The housekeeper mentioned that having some side dishes to go along with the soup would make it less monotonous."

    "Hmm."

    Taking the chopsticks, Fu Yihan began eating in silence.

    His dining habits were elegant and unhurried, a testament to years of discipline.

    Thinking back to the Su family¡¯s dining habits¡ªwhere everyone seemed eager to heap all the best food onto Su Yuerou¡¯s younger sister, Su Xiaorou¡ªit was far from the decorum expected of a prominent family.

    "What are you thinking about?"

    Snapping out of her thoughts, Su Yuerou realized the man eating had been watching her. She quickly replied, "Oh, nothing. I was just reminded of the time I lived with the Su family."

    The Su family?

    Fu Yihan arched a brow. "Has the Fu family treated you poorly?"

    "Not at all!" Su Yuerou gave a wry smile. "Grandpa has been so kind to me, and you¡¯ve been generous as well."

    As for the others, they could simply be overlooked.

    Fu Yihan snorted softly but refrained from furtherment.

    Retracting his gaze, he turned back to hisputer screen, his eyes flicking across the disy.

    Curious, Su Yuerou leaned closer and caught sight of the shing code on his monitor. Her eyes widened in surprise. "Mr. Fu, do you write code yourself?"

    ncing at her out of the corner of his eye, Fu Yihan sneered. "If I don¡¯t write code, who else is going to build up mypany?"

    Ah, that¡¯s right! When hispany was first founded, it only had a handful of employees, all of whom were tech-savvy experts¡ªincluding him. How could she have overlooked that?

    Su Yuerou¡¯s face brightened with a sheepish smile. Lowering her voice, she said, "Mr. Fu, Manager Huang told us today that we¡¯ll be interning in the R&D department soon."

    "Oh?" Fu Yihan¡¯s expression remained unchanged as he nodded calmly. "That¡¯s good. The R&D department is the core of thepany, and there are a lot of skilled people there."

    "Exactly!" Su Yuerou said excitedly. "If I can pick up some skills there, I won¡¯t have to worry about going hungry in the future."

 Chapter 123 Hit It Off

    <h4>Chapter 123: Chapter 123 Hit It Off</h4>

    Watching Su Qingnuan¡¯s excited expression, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and said with a faint smile, "Not bad."

    Under his calm gaze, Su Qingnuan graduallyposed herself.

    "Apologies, Mr. Fu, I lost myposure." Su Qingnuan said softly.

    Fu Yihan said nothing, setting down the empty bowl.

    "It¡¯s fine. I still have some documents to handle."

    "Got it, got it!" Su Qingnuan quickly took the empty bowl, smiling as she said, "You stay busy. I¡¯ll head out now."

    "Mm."

    Su Qingnuan walked out of the study with light, careful steps.

    As the door clicked shut, Fu Yihan raised his head, catching a glimpse of the figure disappearing behind the door.

    Rubbing his now slightly full abdomen, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but think that living such a simple daily life wasn¡¯t so bad after all.

    The pen in his hand started to twirl unconsciously.

    A habit of spinning the pen, forgotten for a long time, returned once more.

    ...

    "How does it look?" Su Qingnuan asked nervously as she looked at herself in the mirror.

    "No problem!" Gu Xiaoxiao made an ¡¯OK¡¯ hand gesture and stood up with augh. "But seriously, is there really a need to dress up this much for a gathering?"

    "Of course, it¡¯s necessary." Su Qingnuan replied softly, "It¡¯s being held at the Fu family estate, and it¡¯s apany function. Naturally, many employees will be attending. As the Eldest Young Madam of the Fu family, if I make an appearance, I can¡¯t afford to lose face."

    Gu Xiaoxiao gave a thumbs-up and sighed, "You folks from wealthy families and your rules¡ªI, a meremoner, just can¡¯t fathom them. But let me remind you of one thing: be careful of your little brother-inw."

    "..." Su Qingnuan lowered her head in silence, the gloom in her eyes hidden deep beneath her gaze. "That man isn¡¯t someone who lets himself be controlled. If he really intends to do something, it will be difficult to predict. I can only take things as theye."

    Giving Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder a hearty pat, Gu Xiaoxiao smiled, "I believe in you."

    "Thanks."

    After buying her outfit, Su Qingnuan returned home.

    That evening, during dinner, Fu Yixing suddenly brought up the matter at the dining table.

    The Old Master furrowed his brow, and Fu Xiong¡¯s expression didn¡¯t look much better either.

    "Why the sudden need to hold a banquet?" The Old Master looked at Fu Yixing in confusion.

    Fu Yixing wiped his mouth calmly and stood up. "I¡¯m merely informing all of you. Everything is prepared; the banquet will proceed as scheduled tomorrow."

    Having said this, he turned and went upstairs.

    Watching his cold, distant figure, the Old Master shook his head helplessly. "This child is getting more and more willful."

    "Isn¡¯t it due to your indulgence?" Fu Xiong muttered, "Back when I wanted stricter discipline, you didn¡¯t believe me. Now look, it¡¯s impossible to discipline him anymore."

    The Old Master red at him and fumed, "Do you have the nerve to say that? Who was the one living the high life outside, leaving the child at home?"

    "I was pursuing my own happiness! Besides...."

    "Bang¡ª"

    The sound abruptly cut him off, and everyone turned their heads to look at Fu Yihan.

    "I¡¯m finished."

    Fu Yihan turned his wheelchair to leave.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan quickly swallowed what was in her mouth, put down her chopsticks, and stood up with him. "I¡¯m done too."

    She jogged to catch up to Fu Yihan, pushing his wheelchair toward the elevator.

    Taking a nce at her chasing figure, the coldness in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes receded slightly.

    "Not eating?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled lightly. "I¡¯ve already finished. Staying longer will only lead to Grandpa and Dad starting another argument."

    Fu Xiong had a carefree nature, prone to unfaithfulness andcking discipline.

    The Old Master despised this about him the most. So whenever this topic was brought up, the inevitable oue was always an argument.

    Rather than sitting there taking coteral damage, it was better to leave earlier and spare oneself the trouble.

    After pushing Fu Yihan back to his room, Su Qingnuan parked his wheelchair in the living room.

    "Mr. Fu, please wait here a moment. I have something for you."

    She ran back to her room and returned shortly with two knee braces in hand.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "What¡¯s this for?"

    Seeing his wary and cold expression, Su Qingnuan quickly opened the knee braces and smiled. "I customized these myself. A few days ago, I consulted an old Chinese medicine doctor for a prescription. These knee braces are soaked in medicinal water and dried, carrying therapeutic properties. Mr. Fu, if you have some spare time, you can tie them to your legs."

    "...No need."

    With that said, Fu Yihan silently turned around, rolling his wheelchair further inside.

    Looking at the knee braces in her hand, and then at Fu Yihan¡¯s lonely back, Su Qingnuan bit her lip, gathered her courage, and chased after him.

    "Mr. Fu." She grabbed the wheelchair and cautiously said, "Please let me finish."

    Fu Yihan frowned and sternly said, "Shut up!"

    This sudden shift in attitude shocked Su Qingnuan.

    But it also confirmed his desire to stand again.

    Gripping the wheelchair tightly, Su Qingnuan gave a bitter smile. "I¡¯ve read through historical texts and rted materials. For your condition, acupuncture might actually help you stand again."

    "Ridiculous. The hospital doctors already dered the nerves dead. Do you think you can do better?"

    "...Traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine aren¡¯t exactly the same. Though I can¡¯t say for sure what the oue would be, Mr. Fu, don¡¯t you even want to try? Even if it¡¯s thest chance?"

    "....."

    Fu Yihan red at her but said nothing.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan eagerly added, "If it doesn¡¯t work, you¡¯ll be able to tell for yourself, won¡¯t you? Stopping it at any point is your right."

    "Hah!" Fu Yihan sneered, his gaze falling on the knee braces in her hands.

    Following his gaze, Su Qingnuan immediately handed over the knee braces.

    "To try or not to try¡ªit¡¯s up to you, Mr. Fu."

    The white knee braces were stained with yellow spots, remnants of the medicinal soak.

    The air carried a strong herbal scent.

    "How can you im it won¡¯t work if you don¡¯t try?"

    Her words simmered in his ears. Having already failed so many times, what was one more?

    Unconsciously, Fu Yihan¡¯s hand reached out.

    When he epted the knee braces, Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart soared with joy.

    "The medicinal properties in the bracesst about two hours. I¡¯ve prepared an herbal pouch to ce inside. Once I finish crafting the new brace, I¡¯ll switch it out for you, Mr. Fu."

    His cold gaze fell on her, expressionless, before he turned away, wheeling himself into his room.

    The chilly air around them finally dissipated, and Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief, clenching her fists excitedly.

    Returning to her room, she sped up her herbal package preparations.

    That night, she remained holed up in her room, working on sachets.

    However, unbeknownst to her, in the room just beyond the door, Fu Yihan had taken out the knee braces and tossed them to Ah Qi.

    "Eldest Young Master?" Ah Qi looked at the braces in surprise, asking, "When did you get these?"

    "Take them for testing. Find out what was used to soak them." Fu Yihan said coldly.

 Chapter 124 Homemade Knee Pads

    <h4>Chapter 124: Chapter 124 Homemade Knee Pads</h4>

    "Yes."

    With the knee brace folded and put away, A Qi said respectfully, "As per your instructions, Eldest Young Master, the arrangements at thepany have been made. When the Young Madam joins the R&D departmentter, there will be someone we selected to guide her."

    "Hmm," Fu Yihan nonchntly withdrew his gaze. "You¡¯re so kind¡ªwhy don¡¯t you just go help her with her internship directly?"

    "..."

    A Qi fell silent.

    The air in the room froze for a moment.

    Soon, Fu Yihan reined in his expression and turned away. "Don¡¯t bother me with these kinds of things anymore."

    "Understood."

    Watching Fu Yihan enter his room, A Qi lowered his gaze to the knee brace in his hand and sighed softly.

    What would it take for someone as prickly as Fu Yihan to truly ept goodwill from others?

    ...

    At dawn, Su Qingnuan had gotten up early and was unsurprised to see Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile was exceptionally bright. "How¡¯s the knee brace working for you?"

    Faced with his cold re, Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile remained unchanged as she continued, "If it doesn¡¯t work well, I can make you a new one."

    With that, Su Qingnuan pulled out a newly crafted knee brace and handed it over.

    For a fleeting moment, a look of surprise shed in his deep-set eyes. He nced at the knee brace in her hand¡ªit was quite different from those avable in the market, with an extrayer added.

    It was obvious she¡¯d made it herself.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s intense gaze settled on Su Qingnuan, and with a conflicted expression, he asked, "You made thisst night?"

    "Yep." Su Qingnuan squatted down with a smile. "But this has a medicinal pouch added, which is a bitplicated. How about I help you put it on, Mr. Fu?"

    Her eyes glimmered brightly, as if all her hopes for a cure were invested in that knee brace.

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan stared at her in silence.

    After a long moment, he turned his head away and said in a low voice, "Fine, put it on."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile paused for a second before she looked at him in pleasant surprise.

    She had only asked tentatively, without expecting much, but he¡¯d actually agreed directly.

    Hurriedly squatting down, Su Qingnuan carefully rolled up his pant leg.

    As she did so, Fu Yihan kept his eyes fixed on Su Qingnuan.

    Her expression remained unchanged; she calmly and naturally faced the mottled scars.

    Her movements were incredibly gentle¡ªas if, if not for the slight pressure she used to secure the straps, Fu Yihan wouldn¡¯t even have felt her doing anything.

    "Feel anything?" Su Qingnuan asked expectantly, lifting her head to meet Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze.

    He froze slightly, paused, and then replied, "Cool."

    "That¡¯s exactly right." Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "After a while, it might get warm¡ªMr. Fu, you¡¯ll have to bear with it."

    "Hmm."

    Su Qingnuan stood up, her expression radiating happiness.

    Fu Yihan nced at her and asked slowly, "So happy?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan squinted slightly, her smile soft. "If I can help Mr. Fu recover, that would be a great merit on my part."

    As if it would be that easy...

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and did not continue the topic.

    The two of them left the room, hearing the chaotic noisesing from downstairs.

    The room¡¯s soundproofing was excellent; they hadn¡¯t realized preparations for the evening¡¯s banquet were already underway downstairs.

    Stealing a nce at Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan asked in a quiet voice, "Mr. Fu, will you be attending tonight¡¯s banquet?"

    Fu Yihan curled his lips into a sneer and said disdainfully, "Why wouldn¡¯t I attend?"

    If he didn¡¯t attend the banquet held at his own home, word would spread¡ªand some people would surely find it amusing.

    "Then I..." Su Qingnuan hesitated.

    Fu Yihan turned to her, his cold gaze sweeping over her.

    "You¡¯re the Young Madam of the house¡ªhow could you not attend?"

    She had suspected as much. Luckily, she was prepared.

    "Alright, I understand."

    They descended the stairs to find the Old Master sitting in the living room with a frustrated expression, watching Fu Yixing bustling around.

    Seeing Fu Yihaning downstairs, the Old Master hurriedly walked over.

    "Yihan, look at what your brother¡¯s been up to. Do you really have nothing to say?"

    "Say what?" Fu Yihan sneered. "Isn¡¯t this all your doing?"

    "...."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s retort silenced the Old Master, whose expression darkened.

    "We only wanted to give him an opportunity for growth. After all, he¡¯s your brother, and besides, you..."

    "You said it had nothing to do with me." Cutting him off coldly, Fu Yihan furrowed his brow and said, "I¡¯m going to eat now."

    With that, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan toward the dining room.

    Because of the banquet preparations, the kitchen was in chaos¡ªbreakfast had been hastily put together.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t mind; she ate whatever was avable.

    However, the Eldest Young Master¡¯s expression grew noticeably unhappy.

    The kitchen staff, passing by, lowered their heads in fear, worried Fu Yihan might say something.

    Once her stomach was full, Su Qingnuan looked up to find that Fu Yihan had barely touched his meal and was staring at her thoughtfully.

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly, puzzled. "Mr. Fu?"

    Leisurely withdrawing his gaze, Fu Yihan asked, "Finished eating?"

    "Yes."

    "Let¡¯s go."

    Su Qingnuan rose and pushed Fu Yihan toward the elevator.

    "Who said we¡¯re going upstairs?" Fu Yihan snapped coldly.

    Halting her steps, Su Qingnuan looked at him with confusion.

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan pointed toward the door.

    "Oh, right."

    Changing direction, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan outside.

    Just as they approached the door, they ran into Fu Yixing, who was carrying things back inside.

    Spotting them, Fu Yixing¡¯s smile broadened triumphantly. "Brother, where are you headed? Don¡¯t forget there¡¯s a banquetter at home."

    ncing at him indifferently, Fu Yihan said nothing.

    Su Qingnuan kept her head down, continuing forward.

    "Hey!" Fu Yixing blocked their path, pretending to look distressed. "You know, if you¡¯re absent as the eldest brother, I¡¯ll be in a tough spot tonight."

    "Tough spot for what?" Fu Yihanughed coldly. "More like worried I¡¯ll steal your thunder, which would make things tough for you."

    "...."

    Fu Yixing¡¯s smile stiffened; heughed awkwardly and said, "Come on, Brother, we¡¯re family. Why would I care about things like that?"

    "Not care?" Fu Yihan¡¯s smile grew colder. "Then you can go have fun elsewhere today¡ªI¡¯ll host the banquet."

    "...."

    The smile vanishedpletely from Fu Yixing¡¯s face, and he red at Fu Yihan, furrowing his brow. "Fu Yihan, you really don¡¯t know your ce."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "Oh? No more ¡¯Brother¡¯ now?"

    "I never wanted to call you that. If not for the Old Man¡¯s sake, do you think I¡¯d bother?"

    With that, Fu Yixing brushed past them, clutching his belongings as he strode inside.

    As he passed Su Qingnuan, he deliberately bumped her shoulder.

    Caught off guard, Su Qingnuan staggered sideways, causing Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair to tilt slightly.

    Fu Yihan turned to stare at Su Qingnuan, his expression shadowed.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly steadied herself, pushing Fu Yihan forward again.

    The atmosphere grew heavy as Fu Yihan got into the car, and Su Qingnuan quickly climbed in after him.

    "Mr. Fu, where are we headed?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Staring out at the scenery beyond the window, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t answer.

 Chapter 125: Talented Man and Beautiful Woman

    <h4>Chapter 125: Chapter 125: Talented Man and Beautiful Woman</h4>

    The atmosphere in the car was awkward. Su Qingnuan tried to think of ways to spark a conversation between the two of them, but one person kept ignoring her, while the other focused solely on driving.

    Until the car stopped, Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t said a single word.

    After the car was washed, Aqi pushed Fu Yihan into a styling salon, with Su Qingnuan closely following behind.

    "Oh!" A mboyantly dressed man greeted them. His gaze flitted ambiguously between Fu Yihan and Su Qingnuan, "Isn¡¯t this our married Eldest Young Master Fu? How long has it been since youst visited?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression remained indifferent as he pointed at Su Qingnuan. "There¡¯s a banquet tonight. Do her styling."

    "Got it!" The man took over the wheelchair and pushed him inside.

    Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief and was just about to sit down when a group of women surrounded her.

    "This way, Madam Fu."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked at them in confusion.

    Seeing her timid and nervous appearance, the group of women seemed to have discovered a frightened little rabbit and chirped excitedly.

    "Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re just here to do your styling. Pleasee this way."

    "Madam Fu, would you like some water? Lemon water or coffee?"

    "Madam Fu....."

    The overly enthusiastic staff crowded around Su Qingnuan, making her feel quite ufortable.

    Yet this difort soon faded away under their relentless enthusiasm.

    "Madam Fu, is it true that Eldest Young Master flew into a rage for a woman at thest banquet?"

    "Come on now, even if she¡¯s really Madam Fu, she wouldn¡¯t tell us such things!"

    "Exactly, haha....."

    Before Su Qingnuan could say a word, their chatter filled the room, leaving her no opportunity to respond.

    She quickly understood the reason behind their enthusiasm¡ªit wasn¡¯t about her, but about gossiping about Fu Yihan. Realizing that she couldn¡¯t provide any juicy details, they had simply started amusing themselves with their own spections.

    With that thought, Su Qingnuan rxed and felt less awkward.

    Styling sessions were always dull and tiresome.

    Several times, Su Qingnuan tried looking outside but couldn¡¯t see Fu Yihan or Aqi.

    Given Fu Yihan¡¯sckluster mood today, would he leave her here after finishing his styling?

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but overthink.

    The lengthy wait left her leaning back in the chair, slowly nodding off.

    It wasn¡¯t until she heard the words "It¡¯s done" that Su Qingnuan came back to her senses.

    "Madam Fu, take a look¡ªare you satisfied with it?" someone beside her said with a smile.

    Half-awake, Su Qingnuan nced toward the mirror in front of her and froze.

    The elegant beauty in the mirror was staring back at her with wide eyes.

    Her hair was braided from the right and draped over her shoulder, adorned with a diamond headband that sparkled under the lights.

    Her makeup was light and minimal, enhancing her natural features and making her look effortlessly stunning.

    "Madam Fu, your skin is so good that it hardly needs any enhancement. We¡¯ve only done a light makeup look. If you¡¯re not satisfied, let us know, and we¡¯ll improve it."

    "No," Su Qingnuan replied shyly, lowering her head. "I think it¡¯s quite good."

    "Right? We think so too! Madam Fu has such natural beauty¡ªshe looks great even without makeup!"

    "Exactly! So beautiful and with such wless skin¡ªit¡¯s enough to make anyone jealous!"

    Amid the staff¡¯spliments, Su Qingnuan changed into her evening gown.

    The elegant and graceful beauty in the mirror immediately captured everyone¡¯s attention.

    "Madam Fu is truly stunning....."

    "No wonder the Eldest Young Master rarelyes here anymore..."

    "Of course! With such a gorgeous wife, I wouldn¡¯t want to leave the house either."

    Listening to their whispers, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but blush.

    When she stepped out of the dressing room, Su Qingnuan saw Fu Yihan. He was no longer dressed casually; he now wore a tailored suit, his hair neatly slicked back to reveal his broad forehead. His handsome features stood out even more strikingly, making him look exceptionally dashing.

    "Wow! Eldest Young Master is so handsome!"

    "Isn¡¯t he? Look at this pair¡ªthey¡¯re the perfect match!"

    Amidst the staff¡¯s praise, Su Qingnuan slowly walked toward Fu Yihan.

    Noticing the sudden shadow over his magazine, Fu Yihan looked up.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan said, her cheeks flushed as she smiled lightly. "I¡¯m ready."

    Fu Yihan blinked in surprise.

    His deep gaze lingered on Su Qingnuan, showing hints of astonishment, bewilderment, and even a trace of delight.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan bent forward slightly, puzzled by hisck of response. "Did you hear me?"

    Awkwardly averting his eyes, Fu Yihan replied in a low voice, "Hmm."

    "Aqi," Fu Yihan said, "Let¡¯s go."

    "Yes."

    "Leaving already?" The mboyant man from earlier appeared once more, grinning as he sized up Su Qingnuan. "Our Madam Fu is truly a great beauty!"

    Fu Yihan cast him a brief nce and said coldly, "The usual¡ªput it on my ount."

    "No problem!" the man replied cheerfully. "Madam Fu, if you¡¯re satisfied, please visit us again next time!"

    Su Qingnuan smiled politely and quickly followed Fu Yihan.

    Inside the car¡¯s backseat, Su Qingnuan suddenly found herself nervous, unsure where to ce her hands, and kept fidgeting.

    Noticing her movements, Fu Yihan furrowed his brows slightly.

    "Do you have lice on you?"

    "...No." Su Qingnuan immediately straightened up, sitting rigidly as she said seriously, "I promise I won¡¯t move anymore."

    With a faint snort, Fu Yihan looked away.

    The evening gown she was wearing was from this season¡¯stest collection. Su Qingnuan had seen it before but dismissed the idea of owning it because she couldn¡¯t afford it.

    Now it was on her, thanks to someone¡ªit wasn¡¯t hard to guess who.

    Stealing a nce at Fu Yihan, she found him resting with his eyes closed.

    His hairstyle exposed the contours of his face entirely, and even with his eyes closed, his excellent profile remained strikingly good-looking.

    Truly, attractive people look good no matter their hairstyle.

    Su Qingnuan became so engrossed in admiring him that she didn¡¯t notice the slight flutter of his eyshes.

    When she finally realized it, their eyes had already met.

    "What are you looking at?"

    Though his face was expressionless, the usual coldness seemed to have diminished slightly.

    Hurriedly averting her gaze, Su Qingnuan mumbled, "Nothing... I wasn¡¯t looking at anything."

    She couldn¡¯t possibly admit that she had been mesmerized by his looks and couldn¡¯t tear her eyes away.

    Fu Yihan snorted lightly, drawing his gaze back.

    He didn¡¯t press further, and Su Qingnuan was d for the ease of the moment but dared not look at him again.

    After a long while, the car pulled up in front of the Fu family¡¯s home.

    It was five o¡¯clock in the afternoon, and many cars had already gathered outside.

    Stepping out of the car, Su Qingnuan reached out to push Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair.

    "Stay where you are," Fu Yihan said sternly. "Remember your current identity¡ªyou¡¯re Madam Fu of the Fu family, not a servant."

    "...Okay."

    Straightening her back, Su Qingnuan quietly followed behind Fu Yihan into the house.

    At this moment, there weren¡¯t too many guests inside, but the pair¡¯s entrance quickly drew everyone¡¯s attention.

    One elegant and captivating, the other handsome and striking.

    The collision of warmth and ice was like fire meeting water.

    "So this is the famed Madam Fu? I swear she didn¡¯t look this stunningst time...."

    "You¡¯ve seen her before? Don¡¯t bluff¡ªit¡¯s my first time seeing her..."

    "Tell me, how could someone this beautiful marry....."

 Chapter 126 Love at First Sight

    <h4>Chapter 126: Chapter 126 Love at First Sight</h4>

    "Eldest Brother." Fu Yixing appeared out of nowhere, blocking Fu Yihan¡¯s path.

    He seemed to have styled his hair at some point, but his naturally refined appearance paled inparison when standing before Fu Yihan.

    "I thought you weren¡¯ting back." Fu Yixing¡¯s smile was somewhat forced, his gaze darting continuously between the two.

    Fu Yihan looked at him with a faint, mocking smile: "Didn¡¯t you say, for gatherings like these, the Eldest Young Master shouldn¡¯t be absent?"

    "Indeed." Fu Yixing nodded, smiling faintly, "Then Eldest Brother should have fun, and keep a close eye on things."

    His words carriedyers of meaning, but Fu Yihan remained indifferent.

    After boasting a bit, Fu Yixing left.

    Watching his departing figure, Fu Yihan called out, "Ah Qi, have some people guard the perimeter."

    "Yes."

    As Ah Qi walked away, Su Qingnuan naturally took his ce, pushing Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair as they headed further inside.

    "Yihan,e,e." The old man spotted him, excitedly beckoning toward the person next to him, "This is Uncle Jiang, do you remember him?"

    Fu Yihan nced at the man, nodding indifferently, "Hello, Uncle Jiang."

    Jiang Ye looked at his cold expression andughed awkwardly, "Yihan, I used to hold you when you were little, do you remember?"

    His icy gazended on Jiang Ye as Fu Yihan stared at him without a trace of expression.

    "Hahaha!" Jiang Yeughed dryly, "It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t remember¡ªit was so long ago, even I barely recall it."

    After that, he found an excuse and walked away.

    Watching Jiang Ye leave, the old man frowned and stared at Fu Yihan.

    "What are you doing? Your Uncle Jiang is one of ourpany¡¯s major clients. Why behave like that?"

    "What¡¯s that got to do with me?" Fu Yihan replied nonchntly, "Thepany¡¯s affairs aren¡¯t for me to handle."

    "..." The old man was at his wit¡¯s end as he looked at Fu Yihan¡¯s hardened face. "I know you¡¯re still angry, but you can¡¯t use your future as a joke. These are the elders you¡¯ll have to deal with eventually."

    "I won¡¯t deal with them." Fu Yihan¡¯s cold gaze returned to him. "Let Fu Yixing handle it."

    "..."

    Unable to tolerate Fu Yihan¡¯s ever-growing icy attitude, the old man turned and left in frustration.

    Su Qingnuan tilted her head, quietly observing Fu Yihan.

    After the old man left, his expression didn¡¯t seem any better.

    "What are you looking at?"

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan quickly averted her gaze. "I wasn¡¯t looking."

    "Not looking?" Fu Yihan turned his head toward her, his faint smile tinged with teasing. "Am I good-looking?"

    "Uh... huh? Who¡¯s good-looking?"

    Fu Yihan raised his hand and pointed at himself.

    Su Qingnuan froze, unable toprehend that such words wereing from him.

    "What?" Fu Yihan arched an eyebrow, "Not good-looking?"

    "No..." Su Qingnuan lowered her eyes, her fingers curling reflexively as she murmured, "Good... good-looking."

    The tiny gestures didn¡¯t escape Fu Yihan¡¯s notice.

    Knowing full well that this person didn¡¯t take teasing lightly, Fu Yihan nheless enjoyed provoking her. Gradually, he withdrew his gaze, a faint curve appearing at the corner of his lips.

    "A pity, though¡ªa wastrel."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s head snapped up, staring at Fu Yihan.

    He had already turned away, his sharp gaze scanning the crowd, his expression serious, utterly devoid of defeat or helplessness.

    Just now... had she misheard?

    Su Qingnuan stared nkly at Fu Yihan, unsure of what to make of it.

    Time passed, the hall grew increasingly crowded, and their secluded corner was no longer quiet.

    "Ah, this must be the Eldest Young Master of the Fu family. Long time admirer, long time admirer."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold gaze swept over the man, his voice detached, "Who are you?"

    "...."

    After a while, someone else approached.

    "Eldest Young Master, I¡¯m..."

    "Don¡¯t know you."

    "....."

    Several people approached Fu Yihan, drawn by his reputation, but after exchanging a few words, it became clear that the infamous eldest son of the Fu family had a notoriously bad temperament¡ªand it wasn¡¯t merely a rumor.

    Su Qingnuan stood by his side, silently witnessing Fu Yihan¡¯s cold sarcasm.

    As an observer, even she couldn¡¯t help but marvel¡ªFu Yihan¡¯s usual treatment of her was practically benevolent byparison.

    After dismissing thest clueless visitor, Fu Yihan stretchedzily.

    "Alright, goal achieved, let¡¯s go back."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, turning the wheelchair around.

    "Sister."

    A familiar voice suddenly rang out, causing Su Qingnuan¡¯s steps to falter.

    Su Yuerou, dressed in an adorable gown, held the hem of her skirt as she trotted up to Su Qingnuan¡¯s side. "I¡¯ve been wondering where you went¡ªso here you are!"

    Su Qingnuan nced at her, expressionless.

    "Sister, it¡¯s been so long since we¡¯ve seen each other¡ªwhy aren¡¯t you more excited?" Su Yuerou asked sweetly.

    "Excited." Su Qingnuan smiled faintly, "Of course I¡¯m excited. Did youe alone?"

    "Yes." Su Yuerou gestured helplessly, "Father and Mother were busy, so they sent me instead. Look at me¡ªhere, unfamiliar with everyone¡ªso I thought maybe you could apany me."

    Unfamiliar with everyone?

    The banquet had been going on for quite a while; if she truly wanted to find Su Qingnuan, wouldn¡¯t she have done so earlier?

    Waiting until now to approach her¡ªsurely there was an ulterior motive.

    Su Qingnuan regarded her cautiously, remaining silent.

    Su Yuerou ignored the wariness in her gaze, smiling softly, "Sister, since I rarelye by, won¡¯t you take me for a little tour?"

    Su Qingnuan frowned, just about to refuse.

    "Yuerou." Fu Yihan¡¯s calm voice interrupted. Su Qingnuan turned her head to look.

    Fu Yihan sat there asposed as ever, his voice steady, "You¡¯re sisters¡ªshow her around."

    "...Alright."

    Leaving Fu Yihan behind, Su Qingnuan led Su Yuerou around the banquet hall.

    Su Yuerou stayed quiet and nonchnt, simply staying close to Su Qingnuan.

    This wasn¡¯t like her usual behavior.

    Several times, Su Qingnuan looked back to see Su Yuerou quietly following her, seemingly unmotivated by any deeper intentions.

    As the walk neared its end, Su Qingnuan finally let out a sigh of relief.

    Just as Su Qingnuan was about to excuse herself, an unexpected figure appeared.

    "Sister-inw." Fu Yixing approached gracefully with a ss of wine, a faint smile on his lips. "Who¡¯s this? Weren¡¯t you going to introduce us?"

    Su Qingnuan looked at him in confusion, nced at Su Yuerou, and reluctantly said, "This is Su Yuerou, my elder sister."

    "Ah, so it¡¯s Sister-inw¡¯s older sister!" Fu Yixing feigned sudden understanding, stretching out his hand, "Miss Su, nice to meet you."

    Su Yuerou graciously extended her hand to greet Fu Yixing.

    "I¡¯ve heard Sister-inw has an elder sister, but never had the pleasure of meeting her until today." Fu Yixing, with his gentlemanly demeanor, raised his ss and offered it to Su Qingnuan. "Shall we share a toast?"

    "Sure." Su Yuerou took the wine ss, taking a light sip as her lips brushed the ss rim, ncing at Fu Yixing.

    He was smiling calmly as he looked back at her.

    Su Yuerou chuckled, "Does Mr. Fu enjoy fine wine?"

 Chapter 127 Eye to Eye

    <h4>Chapter 127: Chapter 127 Eye to Eye</h4>

    "When ites to tasting wine, it¡¯s not as satisfying as savoring beauty." Fu Yixing¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile as he nced meaningfully at Su Yuerou. "What do you think, Su family¡¯s elder sister?"

    Su Yuerou chuckled softly, her gaze ambiguous. "That¡¯s not wrong."

    The two of them bantered back and forth, striking up a conversation.

    Su Qingnuan realized they weren¡¯t paying her any mind, so she took the opportunity while they were deep in conversation to step away.

    She made her way back to Fu Yihan¡¯s side. The man nced at Su Qingnuan with a puzzled look in his eyes.

    "Where¡¯s your sister?"

    Su Qingnuan forced a bitter smile. "She¡¯s chatting with Fu Yixing, over there."

    Following the direction she pointed, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and said with amusement, "Your sister and he seem to get along quite well?"

    "... Haha." Su Qingnuan gave an awkwardugh, unsure how to respond to that.

    Her sister could strike up a conversation with anyone, as long as they were powerful and influential.

    Luckily, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t press further and changed the subject after just a few casual remarks.

    As the two of them idled and prepared to head upstairs, Aqi returned.

    He was apanied by several middle-aged men.

    "Eldest Young Master."

    With a brief nce at the arrivals, Fu Yihan¡¯s attitude wasn¡¯t as cold as before.

    "What brings you here?"

    One of the middle-aged men gave a polite smile. "Eldest Young Master, Second Young Master said this is an internalpany gathering. We were obligated to attend."

    These men were known in thepany to not side with Fu Yixing, yet their deliberate attendance this time hinted at something unusual.

    Fu Yihan let out a cold chuckle, his gaze scanning the hall until itnded on Fu Yixing.

    "Looks like the little wolf cub is getting restless."

    The middle-aged man furrowed his brow slightly. "Eldest Young Master, I have a bad feeling about this."

    Shooting him an indifferent nce, Fu Yihan said calmly, "You old foxes have been dealing with schemes for ages¡ªwhat¡¯s there to fear?"

    "... True, we may be seasoned foxes, but the Second Young Master..."

    "What about the Second Young Master?"

    A sudden voice interrupted their conversation.

    The old patriarch approached with a ss of red wine in hand, his eyes narrowed with a cheerful smile.

    "The lot of you,ing to the house yet skipping past me and heading straight for my eldest grandson?"

    "You jest, sir. We simply happened to see the Eldest Young Master here and decided to greet him first."

    "What¡¯s there to say to him?" The old man gave Fu Yihan a re. "So cold and bad-tempered."

    The othersughed awkwardly.

    It was well-known¡ªwhile the patriarch could criticize his eldest grandson, no one else was permitted to.

    "Enough, enough, let¡¯s go. Come chat with me; even President Jiang has arrived."

    "Understood."

    The lively little corner grew quiet once more.

    Idly raising his ss of water, Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan. "Why are you just standing there? Sit."

    "Ah? Ah... okay."

    Su Qingnuan settled into her seat, watching the people milling around. No one paused in front of them.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan suddenly said, "I think if you were a little more approachable, perhaps more people would try to tter you."

    "tter?" Fu Yihan looked at her with a faint smirk. "Do I look like someonecking ttery?"

    "... Not exactly, but I just think..."

    His demeanor, for regr people, was admittedly hard to warm up to. If he softened it slightly, perhaps...

    "You¡¯re trying to say I have a bad temper, aren¡¯t you?"

    "... Not at all." Those words certainly hadn¡¯te out of her mouth.

    She nced at Fu Yihan cautiously and noticed he seemed unbothered. Su Qingnuan let out a discreet sigh of relief.

    "My personality has been this way for a long time. What are you worried about? You¡¯re not the only one who fears me."

    "..."

    So he was perfectly aware¡ªhe just didn¡¯t say it aloud.

    Lowering her head, Su Qingnuan avoided Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze.

    The man beside her turned slightly, noticing her timid behavior. He frowned.

    "What are you so scared of?" Fu Yihan asked sternly. "Do I look like I bite?"

    "... Didn¡¯t you just say it yourself? I¡¯m not the only one who¡¯s afraid of you, so being wary... isn¡¯t wrong, is it?"

    Hearing this, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, looking intently at Su Qingnuan with a faint smirk.

    Su Qingnuan immediately ducked her head again, avoiding those piercing eyes.

    After a long pause, Fu Yihan finally shifted his gaze, smiling faintly. "Lift your head. Don¡¯t make it seem like I¡¯m bullying you."

    Carefully raising her head, Su Qingnuan rxed slightly when she saw that Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t doing anything.

    The small corner became eerily quiet.

    No one came to bother them; the two of them each minded their business, asionally ncing at the front of the hall.

    After sitting for a while, Su Qingnuan felt her stomach growling in hunger and couldn¡¯t help but stand up.

    "Mr. Fu, would you like something to eat?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Fu Yihan nced at her and nodded.

    Breaking into a smile, Su Qingnuan said cheerfully, "What would you like? I¡¯ll get it for you."

    "Anything."

    "... Alright then."

    Recalling the meals they¡¯d shared before, Su Qingnuan selected a few items she assumed Fu Yihan would like.

    As she carried the tray back, she ran into Fu Yixing and Su Yuerou.

    The two were chatting away happily, surrounded by several of thepany¡¯s veterans.

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brow slightly, said nothing, and turned to leave.

    ...

    Noticing her approach from a distance, Fu Yihan frowned and raised an eyebrow. "What¡¯s wrong? Did someone give you trouble?"

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, quickly shaking her head. "No, it¡¯s just... I saw Second Young Master with Yuerou."

    "Those two?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "I suppose they¡¯re a good match."

    "What?" Thetter part of hisment was so quiet that Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t catch it.

    "Nothing." Fu Yihan extended his hand. "Didn¡¯t you say you were bringing me something to eat?"

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan quickly ced the tray on the table.

    "I just picked a few things at random. If you don¡¯t like them, I can go get something else."

    Taking the fork, Fu Yihan started eating, showing no particr reaction to the food.

    After eating a small portion, he turned his head and met a pair of expectant, sparkling eyes.

    Her gaze, bright and hopeful, was like a puppy eagerly awaiting praise from its owner.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips couldn¡¯t help but curve upwards. "Not bad."

    Su Qingnuan froze, surprise shing across her eyes. "Mr. Fu, just now... were you..."

    "What?" Fu Yihan asked with a puzzled expression.

    Su Qingnuan clenched her fists in excitement. "You just smiled!"

    "..."

    The slight smile vanished, and Fu Yihan stared at her silently.

    Her sudden joy quickly faded. Su Qingnuan restrained her expression and stood up straight.

    "My apologies, Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "For what?"

    "... For saying you smiled when you didn¡¯t."

    Though she said so, her eyes still carried traces of amusement.

    Fu Yihan snorted coldly. "Don¡¯t let it happen again."

    "Got it!"

    Su Qingnuan picked up her own te and began eating seriously.

    But the way her head asionally lifted betrayed her thoughts.

 Chapter 128 Fearless

    <h4>Chapter 128: Chapter 128 Fearless</h4>

    Regarding this, Fu Yihan turned a blind eye.

    After eating, Su Qingnuan asked again, "Mr. Fu, how about going out for a walk?"

    Most people were in the main hall at this time, so there shouldn¡¯t be many outside.

    "Hmm."

    With Fu Yihan¡¯s consent, Su Qingnuan pushed him toward the outside.

    The air outside was noticeably fresherpared to the bustling hall.

    Standing at the entrance, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and looked up at the sky. "The moon hase out."

    The man seated also raised his head to look. Under the moonlight, his dark eyes glimmered faintly.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze and saw this scene unfold.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan said with a faint smile, "Have you ever heard of....."

    "Mr. Fu!"

    Su Qingnuan turned around to see a woman wearing a wine-red evening gown, holding a ss of wine, elegantly walking toward them.

    Her mboyant and stunning face was captivating.

    Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her gaze and lowered her voice. "Mr. Fu, someone¡¯s calling you."

    Fu Yihan turned his head and looked at the approaching woman, his expression calm.

    "Mr. Fu," the stunning woman stopped in front of his wheelchair and smiled broadly, "Long time no see."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and scrutinized her for a while before finally saying, "Who are you?"

    The woman¡¯s dazzling smile stiffened for a brief moment, but she quickly recovered and said with a small smile, "Mr. Fu may not remember me. I¡¯m Jiang Ye¡¯s daughter, Jiang Keli."

    "Miss Jiang," Fu Yihan nodded without any change in expression, "Understood."

    "Is there something you need?" he asked.

    Jiang Keli smiled as she studied him. "I heard from my father that Mr. Fu resigned from his position at thepany. How could someone as talented as Mr. Fu be content with staying idle at home? I was thinking...."

    "I like being idle." Fu Yihan cut her off coldly and said indifferently, "And I have no intention of returning to thepany. If your Jiang family has any issues, just go directly to Fu Yixing."

    After speaking, Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan quickly nodded and pushed him further outside.

    "Mr. Fu, I¡¯m currently the general manager of Jiang Corporation. If you ever feel inclined to coborate, you are always wee."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond, his expression remaining unchanged.

    As they walked farther away, Su Qingnuan looked back and saw the woman still standing there.

    The dim night enveloped her as she stood quietly at the entrance, seemingly watching them, yet not entirely.

    "What are you looking at?"

    The icy voice snapped Su Qingnuan out of her thoughts.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head. "Nothing."

    "Your eyes nearly fell out staring over there, and you call it nothing?"

    "....." Su Qingnuan gave an embarrassedugh, retracting her gaze before turning to Fu Yihan. "Do you think they don¡¯t know Mr. Fu has his ownpany?"

    Fu Yihan shot her a nce and said coldly, "Apart from you, I don¡¯t want anyone else knowing about this."

    "....Why?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, looking at him.

    The old man at the house constantlyined. If he knew Fu Yihan had his own business, he would surely support it, wouldn¡¯t he?

    "No reason." Fu Yihan averted his gaze, staring into the distance at the pitch-ck sky studded with stars. "If anyone finds out, I¡¯ll kick you out of thepany."

    "....Understood."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s yful threat, Su Qingnuan refrained from bringing up the topic again.

    Yet, that Miss Jiang Keli kept appearing before them repeatedly. Even as the banquet ended, she still hadn¡¯t given up.

    With a nk expression, Fu Yihan sent her away and turned to go upstairs without a trace of hesitation.

    Having spent the whole day, Su Qingnuan was exhausted. She fell asleep almost as soon as her head touched the pillow.

    At the break of dawn, Su Qingnuan woke groggily to find the room empty. She tidied herself up briefly and headed downstairs.

    "Keli, while you¡¯re staying at our home, don¡¯t be shy. Treat this ce just like your own,"

    "Thank you, Grandpa."

    Seeing that captivating face, Su Qingnuan froze, confusion filling her eyes.

    The first to notice her was Jiang Keli.

    Giving her a meaningful nce, Jiang Keli smiled softly and said, "Grandpa, the eldest daughter-inw has woken up."

    The old man turned around, noticing Su Qingnuan standing there, and waved her over excitedly.

    "Yuerou,e here quickly! Let Grandpa introduce you!"

    Forcing a smile, Su Qingnuan walked over.

    "This is Jiang Keli, Jiang Ye¡¯s daughter. Since Jiang Ye has gone abroad, Keli will be staying with us temporarily."

    Her smile froze for a moment before Su Qingnuan approached the old man and whispered, "Grandpa, does Yihan know about this?"

    A trace of embarrassment shed across the old man¡¯s face, and he lowered his voice. "....I haven¡¯t had the chance to tell him yet."

    The implication was clear¡ªhe hadn¡¯t said anything.

    Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly. "Grandpa, you know Yihan¡¯s temper...."

    Even a slight irritation might lead to him moving out.

    "Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯re here to help smooth things over." The old man smiled, patting her on the shoulder, "Nowadays, Yihan cares more about you as his wife than me as his elder. This matter is up to you."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan widened her eyes in confusion, looking at the old man.

    "Grandpa believes in you. Waiting for your good news."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan shook her head gloomily. "Grandpa, I don¡¯t think I can manage it. Yihan, he..."

    "Hey! Yihan is back." The old man suddenly stood up and walked toward the doorway, "We were just talking about you, and here you are already?"

    Su Qingnuan looked up to see Fu Yihan¡¯s pale face, his expression not looking too good.

    At times like this, raising these matters would likely result in being chased out.

    "Just in time. Yuerou has something to discuss with you."

    Upon hearing this, Fu Yihan turned toward Su Qingnuan, a flicker of confusion in his eyes.

    Su Qingnuan gave a strained smile and walked over to Fu Yihan.

    ncing at the expectant old man beside them, Su Qingnuan smiled and leaned slightly closer to Fu Yihan.

    Her strands of hair fell onto Fu Yihan¡¯s shoulder.

    Fu Yihan tilted his head slightly, his gazending on the strands resting on his shoulder, lost in thought.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan lowered her voice, leaning closer, "There¡¯s something I want to tell you. Can we talk upstairs?"

    Her breathing was slightly unsteady, her wordsing out in rushed bursts.

    Fu Yihan looked up at the old man beside them, who was watching them with noticeable excitement, seemingly waiting for something, yet saying nothing.

    "Did the old man ask you to say this?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly and quickly shook her head. "No."

    Fu Yihan ignored her, turning instead to the old man.

    "Old man, what have you done this time?"

    "....." The old man looked at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly waved her hands, signaling that she hadn¡¯t said anything.

    "Do you really think she can convince me?" Fu Yihan asked again.

    "....." The old man grabbed the handles of Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair andughed. "Let¡¯s go upstairs to talk about it."

    With that, he pushed Fu Yihan upstairs.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan initially wanted to follow, but the old man stopped her outside the elevator.

    Watching the elevator numbers flicker, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and turned back around.

    "Madam Fu." Jiang Keli stood behind her, smiling at her.

 Chapter 129: The Comer Means No Good

    <h4>Chapter 129: Chapter 129: The Comer Means No Good</h4>

    Su Qingnuan smiled gently, "Miss Jiang, what brings you here?"

    "I saw you chatting here, so I came over to take a look."

    "Ah..." Su Qingnuan pointed awkwardly at the elevator, "The old master wanted to have a word with Yihan, so they went to the study."

    "Alright." Jiang Keli smiled and gestured toward the sofa, "Would Madam mind sitting down for a chat?"

    "Of course."

    The two sat facing each other, and Su Qingnuan observed the person across from her.

    Her lips curled into a confident smile, and her graceful andmanding manner was indeed befitting of someone in a high position.

    "Madam, have some tea," Jiang Keli said with a soft smile.

    "Ah... alright."

    Su Qingnuan epted the tea, momentarily dazed.

    She was clearly the hostess, yet why did she feel so uneasy?

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan straightened herself and looked at Jiang Keli.

    "I heard Madam has quite the talent for music. At a young age, you¡¯ve already won many awards."

    "Not really," Su Qingnuan replied modestly with a smile, "I just know a little bit, nothing impressive."

    Jiang Keli smiled slightly, her contemtive gaze falling on Su Qingnuan.

    "I also heard that during a concert at the music hall, Madam performed a guzheng piece that captivated everyone present. I have some understanding of music. Perhaps someday I might have the privilege of hearing it myself?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s pupils contracted slightly, forcing her to focus on the person in front of her.

    Was it intentional, or merely casual?

    "Miss Jiang, you¡¯re exaggerating. It was just some inconsequential performance;pared to proper musicians, it doesn¡¯t amount to much," Su Qingnuan said humbly.

    Jiang Keli chuckled lightly, "Madam is being modest. Few people perform at someone else¡¯s concert and win the audience¡¯s praise. It¡¯s clear your skills are exceptional."

    "...You¡¯re too kind."

    Faced with Jiang Keli¡¯s praise, Su Qingnuan felt no delight¡ªinstead, she grew increasingly tense.

    She stood up and smiled lightly, "Miss Jiang, would you like some fruit?"

    "There¡¯s no need to trouble Madam," Jiang Keli also stood, her smile unchanged. "Tea is fine. Sitting and chatting is pleasant enough."

    "..."

    She¡¯s really locked onto me, isn¡¯t she? Not letting me escape?

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly before sitting back down.

    "I heard Madam once lived in H City before?"

    "Mm, our family¡¯s hometown is H City."

    During the New Year, they would return, so H City was like a second home to them.

    "Well, isn¡¯t that a coincidence? My family¡¯s hometown is also H City. We might have even met before."

    Su Qingnuan nced up and gave a wry smile, "H City is sorge; meeting by chance isn¡¯t easy."

    "True. About Madam..."

    "One moment." Su Qingnuan suddenly got up, pulled out her phone, and said, "Sorry, I need to take this call."

    With that, she walked toward the floor-to-ceiling window with her phone.

    "Hello?" Su Qingnuan said softly, "Xiaoxiao, what¡¯s the matter?"

    "Qingnuan, you haven¡¯t forgotten the assignment due tomorrow, right?"

    Though both were interning at apany, their school assignments still needed to be submitted.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled, "How could I forget? I finished it long ago."

    "Whew, that¡¯s wonderful! Send it to meter so I can use it as a reference!"

    "...Still haven¡¯t done it?" Su Qingnuan said helplessly, "I reminded you about this two days ago, didn¡¯t I?"

    "My bad... next time for sure."

    "...I¡¯ll send it overter."

    After ending the call, Su Qingnuan sighed.

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s habit¡ªshe had certainly spoiled her.

    Turning around, Su Qingnuan froze in ce, surprised to find someone standing less than a meter away.

    "Miss Jiang?" Su Qingnuan frowned, "What are you doing here?"

    "Finished your call?" Jiang Keli calmly walked back to her seat with a smile, "I ran out of tea and wanted to ask where the hot water was."

    "...Oh." Su Qingnuan walked over, picked up the teapot, and headed to the kitchen.

    For some reason, she found Jiang Keli a little odd.

    After brewing a fresh pot of tea leaves, Su Qingnuan walked out of the kitchen.

    She had only taken two steps when she retreated back inside.

    In the living room, Jiang Keli was seated, looking down at her phone.

    Should she just seize the chance to go out during Xiaoxiao¡¯s call?

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan took out her phone and sent a message.

    Not long after, Gu Xiaoxiao replied.

    Feeling relieved, Su Qingnuan came out with her phone.

    "Miss Jiang, I¡¯m sorry. My friend needs me for something, so I¡¯ll have to step out for a while."

    Jiang Keli looked up, smiling gently. "No problem. If Madam is busy, please go ahead. I¡¯ll be staying here for a few months, and there¡¯ll be plenty of time for chatting."

    "...Alright."

    Grabbing her bag without bothering to take anything else, Su Qingnuan left the house.

    At the university, Su Qingnuan loungedzily on Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s bed.

    "Look at you, what¡¯s the matter? Did your mother-inw trouble you?" Gu Xiaoxiao teased.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head and sighed, "Not my mother-inw. We have a guest at home, and I just don¡¯t seem to vibe well with her, so I left."

    "Oh?" Gu Xiaoxiao eximed, sitting upright. "A rare urrence¡ªto hear you say such a thing!"

    "What thing?" Su Qingnuan looked at her in confusion, "Did I say something wrong?"

    "Not at all! You said nothing wrong." Gu Xiaoxiao pulled a chair over, sitting facing her. "Tell me about thisdy¡ªwhat does she do, and why do you feel ufortable?"

    "...It¡¯s not really difort," Su Qingnuan said helplessly. "It¡¯s just whenever I talk with her, I get this strange feeling."

    "Strange? How so?"

    Su Qingnuan pondered her feelings before speaking, then asked, "Do you think it¡¯s just my imagination?"

    "..." Gu Xiaoxiao propped her head on her hand, furrowing her brows. "Listening to you, I don¡¯t sense anything particrly odd. Maybe you¡¯re overthinking it?"

    "...Perhaps." Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly and stretched out again, "Idle thoughts keep creeping in when I¡¯m not working. I should probably get back to work."

    "Oh, stop it." Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled, "If you don¡¯t take a break, how am I supposed to rx? Get up and get ready¡ªwe¡¯re going out for food."

    "...I don¡¯t want to eat." Su Qingnuan buried her face in the bedding, her voice muffled, "Right now, I just want to be a salted fish."

    "That¡¯s not like you at all. Honestly¡ª"

    "Ring-ring ding-dong-dong"

    The sudden ringtone interrupted their conversation.

    Su Qingnuan pulled out her phone, checked the caller ID, and quickly sat up straight.

    "Hello." Her proper tone made Gu Xiaoxiao nce sideways repeatedly.

    "Where are you?" Fu Yihan¡¯s deep voice came through.

    Su Qingnuan looked guiltily at the ceiling, "At school."

    "..." There was a brief silence, "...Take Gu Xiaoxiao and head to Fenghua Restaurant on Guest Avenue."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan nced at Gu Xiaoxiao in confusion, "Bring Xiaoxiao along?"

    "Mm."

    And then the call ended.

    Hearing her name mentioned, Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her quizzically, "What¡¯s going on? Where are we headed?"

    "Fenghua Restaurant."

 Chapter 130: You Bring a Friend, I Bring a Friend

    <h4>Chapter 130: Chapter 130: You Bring a Friend, I Bring a Friend</h4>

    "Qingnuan..." Gu Xiaoxiao uneasily tugged at Su Qingnuan¡¯s sleeve and whispered, "Are we really going in?"

    At this moment, the two of them were already standing in front of the city¡¯s most luxurious restaurant¡ªFenghua Restaurant.

    It¡¯s said that this establishment has a history spanning over a hundred years, having weathered countless wars and remaining standing to this day, thanks not only to the people behind it but also to the unparalleled skills of its chefs.

    Many prominent figures in the city choose this ce for their gatherings, no matter the asion.

    And Fenghua Restaurant¡¯s fame stemmed not just from its impable quality but from its exclusivity¡ªmoney alone wasn¡¯t enough for a reservation.

    Rumor has it that reservations here were fully booked through the end of the year.

    Looking up at the shimmering golden sign of Fenghua Restaurant, Su Qingnuan swallowed nervously and nodded slightly, "The phone call did say so."

    "...I can understand why you¡¯d be here, but why am *I* showing up in this?"

    Su Qingnuan turned, meeting Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s puzzled look, and sighed, "Don¡¯t ask me¡ªI have no idea either."

    Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t mentioned in his call why Gu Xiaoxiao had toe; Su Qingnuan simply followed his instructions and brought her along.

    Looping her arm around Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulder, Su Qingnuan said with amused reassurance, "Rx. Once we¡¯re inside, we¡¯ll figure it out."

    "....."

    Despite her reluctance, Gu Xiaoxiao followed Su Qingnuan into the restaurant, the two of them standing awkwardly in the opulent lobby.

    It was Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s first time here and also Su Qingnuan¡¯s.

    Their uncertainty was palpable as they wandered the lobby, which, apart from the staff stationed at the entrance, waspletely empty.

    "Where do we go now?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered.

    Su Qingnuan nced at the staff subtly watching them from the entrance and lowered her voice, "I don¡¯t know¡ªlet me make a call."

    Just as she pulled out her phone, footsteps echoed through the quiet lobby.

    The two of them turned to look and saw Ah Qi, dressed in a sharp suit and expressionless, walking toward them.

    "Madam," Ah Qi stopped in front of Su Qingnuan and said respectfully, "The Eldest Young Master has instructed me to escort you."

    "Alright." Grateful as if she¡¯d just found a lifeline, Su Qingnuan quickly walked over. "Let¡¯s go."

    Ah Qi led them forward, passing golden-hued walls and into view of the sightseeing elevator.

    "They even have sightseeing lifts installed here? Truly living the high life," Gu Xiaoxiao remarked aloud, her voice carrying distinct sarcasm.

    Su Qingnuan shot her a nce and whispered, "Once we¡¯re in the private room, try not to talk unless you absolutely have to, alright?"

    "Got it," Gu Xiaoxiao nodded earnestly.

    The two followed Ah Qi into the private room. While the grand lobby was already impressive, the private room had an even more unique charm.

    The door to the private room opened, andughter spilled out.

    Su Qingnuan looked at Ah Qi and quietly asked, "Ah Qi, who¡¯s inside?"

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t answer but made a polite gesture inviting her in.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan said no more and continued walking forward.

    "Hey! Sister-inw is here!"

    An excited voice rang out from Fu Yixing, who pointed at Su Qingnuan and smiled, "Sister-inw, we¡¯ve all been waiting for you!"

    The spacious private room wasn¡¯t only upied by the Fu family but also contained several unfamiliar faces, all staring at her.

    Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly, "Apologies for keeping you waiting."

    "Waiting for Sister-inw hardly counts as truly waiting," Fu Yixing said, pressing her shoulder to gesture for her to sit, "Please, make yourselffortable. The dishes will be served shortly."

    Feeling a little awkward, Su Qingnuan sat down and subtly looked over at Fu Yihan.

    He sat naturally, his expressionposed, seemingly unaffected by her arrival.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan leaned closer and whispered, "Isn¡¯t this supposed to be a family gathering? Why did you ask me to bring Xiaoxiao along?"

    Fu Yihan nced at her briefly before casting his gaze forward. "Not everyone here belongs to the Fu family."

    Following his sightline, Su Qingnuan found Jiang Keli chatting with others. Among those unfamiliar faces were people Su Qingnuan had never encountered before.

    Soon after, everyone in the private room took their seats, guided by Fu Yixing¡¯s arrangements.

    Gu Xiaoxiao, as Su Qingnuan¡¯s friend, naturally sat beside her, her smile awkward, her eyes showing traces of unease.

    "Tonight is mainly about weing Miss Jiang to our family. For theing months, we¡¯ll be seeing each other frequently, and I hope Miss Jiang will offer us her guidance!" Fu Yixing enthusiastically raised his ss and smiled at Jiang Keli.

    Jiang Keli smiled back and stood up.

    "You¡¯re too kind, Second Young Master; it¡¯s I who should be thanking you all instead!"

    With that, the two exchanged smiles and clinked their sses across the table.

    The conversation flowed smoothly, and the lively noise filled the room.

    In stark contrast, Su Qingnuan¡¯s group of three remained quiet and subdued.

    Gu Xiaoxiao felt awkward, Su Qingnuan was tense, and Fu Yihan simply couldn¡¯t be bothered.

    They were like a mismatched little clique, silently sitting apart from the crowd.

    "Eldest Young Master," Jiang Keli suddenly looked at Fu Yihan and smiled softly, "I hope you¡¯ll be patient with me in theing days."

    Fu Yihan nced at her briefly before turning to Su Qingnuan. "Yue Rou, drink this for me."

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment but quickly stood up under Fu Yihan¡¯s neutral gaze, picking up the ss.

    "Miss Jiang, Yihan¡¯s health doesn¡¯t allow him to drink, so I¡¯ll take this one on his behalf."

    Jiang Keli chuckled lightly. "The Eldest Young Master and Madam have such a wonderful rtionship."

    Su Qingnuan responded with an awkward chuckle and downed the drink in one go.

    As she ced the ss back down and prepared to sit, Jiang Keli spoke again.

    "Madam, this next one is from me to you."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan blinked in puzzlement, her smile nervous. "Actually, just that first toast to me and Yihan is fine¡ªyou really don¡¯t need to¡ª"

    "How can that do?" Jiang Keli interrupted, still smiling as she raised her ss. "Madam is Madam, and the Eldest Master is the Eldest Master. This distinction is important."

    Saying this, Jiang Keli downed her drink with ease.

    Left with no other choice, Su Qingnuan reluctantly drank another ss.

    Finally sitting down, Gu Xiaoxiao immediately scooted over.

    "Is this the Miss Jiang you were talking about? Why do I feel like there¡¯s something off about her?"

    Su Qingnuan blinked and whispered, "See? Didn¡¯t I tell you so earlier? You didn¡¯t believe me then."

    "That was because I hadn¡¯t seen her for myself! Now that I have, I believe you," Gu Xiaoxiao argued back earnestly.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly, "Fine. Since you believe it now, tell me¡ªwhat exactly feels off to you?"

    "...I can¡¯t point to anything specific; she just gives off this odd vibe."

    Echoing Su Qingnuan¡¯s own thoughts, Gu Xiaoxiao nced toward Jiang Keli.

    The woman had already consumed quite a bit of alcohol, her cheeks flushed. Her natural beauty, unblemished by makeup, only made her look more radiant.

    Oddly enough, Fu Yixing¡ªwho typically couldn¡¯t take his eyes off beautiful women¡ªwas neither flirting nor cing himself near Jiang Keli. Instead, he politely kept his distance.

    "Yixing, look at Keli! She¡¯s had so much to drink; you¡¯re not even helping her out?" The patriarch¡¯s voice suddenly rang across the table, addressing Fu Yixing.

 Chapter 131 Matchmaking

    <h4>Chapter 131: Chapter 131 Matchmaking</h4>

    Fu Yihan was momentarily surprised, his expression slightly dazed.

    But he quickly reacted, smiling as he said, "I see Miss Jiang is in a good mood. Let her drink if she wants; after all, we did hire a designated driver."

    The old man red at him, as if saying he hated iron for not bing steel.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze darted back and forth between them, and suddenly a smile appeared on her lips.

    "See that?" Gu Xiaoxiao said mysteriously, "Your old man wants to pair them up."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, amused, "I could tell."

    But it was clear Fu Yihan had no such intention. Who knew if the old man¡¯s matchmaking would seed?

    While Su Qingnuan was lost in thought, someone blocked the light from the side, prompting her to turn her head in confusion.

    "Young Madam." A stranger¡¯s face appeared in front of Shen Zhiliu, and that person smiled broadly, "I¡¯ve long admired you. My name is Qin Hua. I would like to toast to you."

    "...Okay."

    Reluctantly holding her wine ss, Su Qingnuan stood up and said with a smile.

    She downed it in one gulp, and that person smiled satisfactorily as they left.

    Su Qingnuan leaned on the table as she sat down, staring in a daze at the table before her.

    "Qingnuan?" Gu Xiaoxiao nudged her, concerned, "Are you okay?"

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t respond, her eyes still somewhat nk.

    "...Could she be drunk?" Gu Xiaoxiao looked at Su Qingnuan in surprise.

    She had never drunk with Su Qingnuan before, or rather, Su Qingnuan had never drunk in front of her.

    Whenever she suggested drinking together, the other woman would hesitate. And knowing Su Qingnuan¡¯s health issues, she never pushed her to drink, so she didn¡¯t know Su Qingnuan had such a low alcohol tolerance.

    Gently pinching Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm, she turned to see Gu Xiaoxiao looking at her in confusion.

    With a naive and clueless expression, there wasn¡¯t a shred of defense.

    Yep! Truly drunk.

    Gu Xiaoxiao helplessly looked over at Mr. Fu, finding that he was also watching Su Qingnuan.

    "Mr. Fu," Gu Xiaoxiao whispered, "She¡¯s drunk."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, his gaze shifting to behind Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Gu Xiaoxiao paused, turning to look back.

    She saw several women walking over with their sses, clearlying for a toast.

    But given Su Qingnuan¡¯s current state, how could she drink any more?

    Gu Xiaoxiao quickly grabbed a ss from the table, stood up, and intercepted the women.

    "Oh my! Youdies look absolutely stunning today," Gu Xiaoxiao said with a smile, "I really envy your close rtionship, and also..."

    She was like a wall, standing in front of Su Qingnuan, preventing anyone from getting closer.

    The women, seeing they couldn¡¯t get close, had no choice but to bring up Su Qingnuan¡¯s name.

    However, the person sitting there was already fuzzy, and no matter how many ways they hinted about Su Qingnuan, there was no response.

    Arriving with high hopes, they left in disappointment.

    After finally getting rid of a few people, Gu Xiaoxiao patted her flushed cheek, looking at Fu Yihan.

    Thetter looked at her with satisfaction.

    Gu Xiaoxiao paused and hesitantly asked, "Mr. Fu, did you expect this and bring Qingnuan because of it?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s brows raised in amusement as he looked at her.

    "...I understand now."

    As someone Fu Yihan found reliable to block drinks, Gu Xiaoxiao lived up to expectations and didn¡¯t let Su Qingnuan have another drop.

    As the meal went on, Gu Xiaoxiao herself became a bit muddled.

    Thankfully, she wasn¡¯t the only one.

    Jiang Keli saw her friends off and turned back to look at Su Qingnuan.

    She was obediently following beside Fu Yihan, heading outside.

    "Mr. Fu," Gu Xiaoxiao waved unsteadily, smiling bitterly, "I¡¯ll head back first."

    "Wait," Fu Yihan nced at A Qi, "take her back."

    "Yes."

    A Qi supported Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulder and directly escorted her into the car.

    Watching the car leave, Fu Yihan retracted his gaze.

    "Let¡¯s go," he said.

    The person beside him said nothing, following Fu Yihan closely.

    Until Fu Yihan got into the car, he sat inside, waiting for the wheelchair to be stored, then turned to find Su Qingnuan still standing by the car door.

    "What are you doing?" Fu Yihan frowned, "Get in the car."

    Su Qingnuan tilted her head, looking at her in confusion.

    The night was deep, and under the moonlight, Fu Yihan could only see her dazed eyes, twinkling with questions.

    "Get in the car," Fu Yihan said again.

    But the person stood foolishly there, unmoved.

    Fu Yihan impatiently shouted, "Help her into the car."

    Seeing this, the driver hurried over, reaching out to assist.

    Before his hand could reach Su Qingnuan, she backed away.

    The driver moved closer, and Su Qingnuan retreated step by step, getting further away. The driver dared not approach, helplessly looking at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan frowned, "Are you going back or not?"

    Hearing the words "going back," Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes lit up, staring energetically at Fu Yihan.

    "Come here," Fu Yihan said.

    Su Qingnuan obediently walked forward, taking care to detour when passing the driver.

    Once again standing in front of the car door, Su Qingnuan looked intently at Fu Yihan.

    Seeing her bright, doe-like eyes, Fu Yihan helplessly extended his hand, his tone softening slightly, "Be good, get in the car."

    Su Qingnuan looked at his hand for a moment, then down at her own hand.

    Seeing her standing still, Fu Yihan slightly frowned, the patience he had painstakingly umted about to run out again.

    Suddenly, a cool sensation came from his palm.

    Fu Yihan was momentarily taken aback, looking up.

    Her hand quietly ced itself into his palm, her clear eyes reflected Fu Yihan¡¯s surprised expression.

    Following Fu Yihan¡¯s guidance, Su Qingnuan carefully climbed into the car, sitting beside him.

    Her hand held tightly onto Fu Yihan¡¯s hand.

    Fu Yihan looked down at their sped hands, lost in thought.

    The car slowly started, driving steadily.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t let go, turning his head to look out the window.

    Suddenly, a weight settled on his shoulder.

    In the reflection of the dark window, Fu Yihan¡¯s image was visible, along with the figure leaning against his shoulder.

    Su Qingnuan slept soundly, her mouth slightly open, breathing evenly.

    Fu Yihan frowned a little, looking at his palm.

    Their hands were still tightly sped, not because Fu Yihan didn¡¯t want to let go, but because the other person was clinging to him.

    Su Qingnuan held his hand with so much force, even in sleep, she didn¡¯t rx one bit.

    Seeing those pale fingers, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but think of certain things on the dining table, his lips curving slightly upward.

    Slowly turning back, Fu Yihan gazed out the window.

    Shadows floated by, only the constantly shing lights illuminated his reflection and...

    With a growing smile, Fu Yihan tightened his grip.

    It was unclear how much time had passed when the car finally stopped, and the driver, seeing the two with closed eyes in the backseat, quietly got out.

    The night was still deep, and it was uncertain how much the bright moon could illuminate.

 Chapter 132 Hard Work

    <h4>Chapter 132: Chapter 132 Hard Work</h4>

    Su Qingnuan groggily woke up and found herself lying on a soft bed.

    She leaned against the pillow, holding her head gently.

    After a moment, her eyes suddenly widened.

    The familiar scene before her eyes made Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief.

    Her memory lingered on yesterday¡¯s drinking session with strangers, and then it cked out.

    What happened afterward and how she got back were aplete nk for Su Qingnuan.

    Propping herself up on her arms and sitting upright, Su Qingnuan looked down at the pajamas on her body and froze.

    Who changed her into pajamas? Who brought her back?

    The stinging pain in her forehead kept surging, and Su Qingnuan rubbed it while smiling bitterly.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    A dull knocking sound came from outside the door, prompting Su Qingnuan to get up quickly and answer the door.

    The living room was empty. ncing at Fu Yihan¡¯s tightly shut bedroom door, Su Qingnuan opened the main door.

    "Young Madam." The housekeeper stood there holding a bowl of soup, smiling warmly. "The Eldest Young Master instructed me to make sobering soup for you."

    "Ah... thank you!" Su Qingnuan quickly took the soup with a polite smile.

    "You¡¯re wee."

    Su Qingnuan sat down with the soup and sipped it slowly.

    After she finished drinking, the housekeeper took out a pill. "The Eldest Young Master asked me to remind you to take this."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan paused, puzzled. "What kind of medicine is this?"

    The housekeeper shook her head. "I¡¯m not sure. The Eldest Young Master only asked me to hand it to you."

    Su Qingnuan suddenly remembered that her medicine in the drawer had run out. Could this be it...

    Flustered, she quickly took the medicine and swallowed it without much thought. Then she asked, "Where is the Eldest Young Master? Did he leave?"

    "The Eldest Young Master went out early in the morning. He asked me to tell you not to worry when you wake up. He already arranged for leave from yourpany, so you may rest at home today."

    "Okay."

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her forehead andy back down on the sofa, smiling weakly. "Thank you, Auntie."

    "You¡¯re too kind, Young Madam."

    Havingpleted her task, the housekeeper left the room.

    In the now silent room, Su Qingnuany down for a while but soon felt uneasy.

    She rarely drank alcohol and wasn¡¯t sure if there would be any after-effects from her current condition.

    But for now, it seemed like everything was okay.

    Returning to the bedroom and lying back down, Su Qingnuan soon drifted into a deep sleep again.

    ...

    She was awoken by noise. Opening her eyes, Su Qingnuan listened to the heated argument outside, feeling a little at a loss.

    Was Fu Yihan losing his temper? But why? She couldn¡¯t quite make it out.

    Her survival instincts told her that it was best not to go out at times like this.

    However, the next moment, someone knocked on her bedroom door.

    Reluctantly, Su Qingnuan got up and opened the door.

    "Su Qingnuan!" Qin Chuan¡¯s furious face confronted her, sharp eyes piercing into her. "How much longer do you intend to y dumb?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze slid past Qin Chuan andnded on Fu Yihan not far away.

    Fu Yihan turned his head and met her eyes, nodding slightly. "Come out."

    Lowering her head quickly, Su Qingnuan walked past Qin Chuan and quietly stood next to Fu Yihan.

    "I¡¯ve told you before, this is aplicated matter. Stop digging into it," Fu Yihan said sternly.

    Pointing at Su Qingnuan, Qin Chuan frowned. "Fu Yihan, are you insane? Su Qingnuan has a congenital heart condition, and you want to marry her?"

    "..."

    The room fell intoplete silence.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head even more, almost burying herself in the ground.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t speak, his deep gaze exuding a cold air.

    Qin Chuan hesitated, then slumped into a chair, avoiding his gaze.

    "Even if you¡¯ve epted Su Qingnuan for who she is, what about the patriarch? Will he ept this?" Qin Chuan suddenly asked. "Can he?"

    "What does his eptance have to do with me?" Fu Yihan retorted.

    "..."

    Frustrated, Qin Chuan stood up and pointed at him, his hand trembling.

    "Are you seriously this ungrateful? We¡¯re all looking out for you, and you act like nothing matters!"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "If you truly care about me, then stop burdening me with these trivial matters. Focus instead on fixing my leg."

    "..." Qin Chuan fell silent.

    No matter what he said, Fu Yihan always had a way of turning it around, leaving him speechless.

    ncing at the dispirited Su Qingnuan nearby, Qin Chuan huffed, "Fine! I won¡¯t meddle in your business anymore! Do whatever you like!"

    "Boom!"

    The door mmed shut with a deafening noise.

    Su Qingnuan slowly raised her head to look at the now trembling door frame, unable to hold back a helpless remark. "Qin Chuan seems really upset."

    Fu Yihan, unfazed, let out a cold "Mm," before picking up the documents on the table and focusing on them.

    Seeing his indifferent demeanor, Su Qingnuan cautiously asked, "Mr. Fu, haven¡¯t you told Mr. Qin Chuan about our contractual marriage?"

    He paused briefly, his gazeplicated as he looked at Su Qingnuan.

    "Do you really want me to tell him?"

    Su Qingnuanughed awkwardly and shook her head. "Not really. I just thought, if he knew, maybe he wouldn¡¯t be so mad."

    "Smack¡ª"

    The document was closed with a snap. Without a word, Fu Yihan got up, holding the file, and headed into his room.

    Su Qingnuan, left standing in confusion, watched as Fu Yihan mmed the door shut¡ªharder than Qin Chuan had.

    Did she say something wrong?

    Su Qingnuan rubbed her forehead, wondering if she¡¯d slept too long and her brain wasn¡¯t working. She didn¡¯t even know what she had said to upset the Eldest Young Master.

    It wasn¡¯t until dinnertime that Fu Yihan finally came out of the room.

    No matter how much Su Qingnuan tried to win his favor, he showed no response.

    At the dining table sat six people, each lost in their own thoughts.

    Su Qingnuan asionally nced at Fu Yihan, trying to figure out how to appease him.

    Opposite her, Jiang Keli¡¯s gaze alternated between her and Fu Yihan.

    Meanwhile, the patriarch watched Jiang Keli and Fu Yihan carefully.

    The only one seriously eating appeared to be Fu Jiang.

    "I¡¯m done eating," Fu Yihan suddenly announced, setting down his chopsticks and wheeling himself away.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan also put down her chopsticks. "I¡¯ve finished too."

    She quickly followed, trailing behind Fu Yihan.

    His cold gaze fell on her as he frowned. "What are you doing?"

    Su Qingnuan twisted the edge of her clothes, her voice soft. "Mr. Fu, the herbal pack from yesterday needs to be changed."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan said nothing, closing his eyes as he waited for the elevator to go upstairs.

    Once back in the room, Su Qingnuan darted inside, fetched two herbal packs, and knelt before Fu Yihan.

    "One herbal packsts two days and needs to be changed every other day." She exined as she deftly removed his knee support.

    When the support left his knee, Fu Yihan felt a fleeting sense of loss, quickly reced by the invading chill.

    Carefully securing the new support, Su Qingnuan smiled. "Mr. Fu, next time the herbal pack is changed, I might need to give you acupuncture. What do you think..."

    This chapter is updated by freew(e)bnovel.(c)om

 Chapter 133 Gossip

    <h4>Chapter 133: Chapter 133 Gossip</h4>

    "Let¡¯s talk next time." Fu Yihan stepped back a little, his gaze falling on the table. "Give me the documents."

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly picked up the documents and handed them over attentively.

    After taking the documents, Fu Yihan nced at Su Qingnuan, who was obediently standing in ce. He paused for a moment before saying, "If Qin Chuan says something like that again in the future, you don¡¯t need to pay any attention to him."

    With that, he turned and entered the room.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment. Was Fu Yihanforting her just now?

    Although it was just a short sentence, it sounded incredibly pleasant to Su Qingnuan¡¯s ears.

    Su Qingnuan went back to her room, overjoyed. She took out the draft; she was switching departments tomorrow and needed to prepare thoroughly.

    ...

    "Huff¡ª"

    Fu Yixing took a deep breath, lifted the covers, and stood up. He picked up the scattered clothes from the floor and pulled out a cigarette.

    "Yixing..." A coquettish voice sounded from behind. "Where are you going?"

    Fu Yixing waved the cigarette in his hand and smiled faintly. "For a smoke."

    The woman, wrapped in the covers, stood up and hugged Fu Yihan from behind.

    Fu Yihan chuckled softly and patted her hand. "What? Still worried about me?"

    "No," the woman pouted, sighing softly. "It¡¯s just that it feels a bit unfair."

    "Hmm?" Fu Yixing pulled the woman into his arms, humor dancing in his voice. "How is it unfair? Have I not treated you well enough?"

    The woman clung tightly to Fu Yixing and smiled. "Yixing is certainly good to me. I was talking about my sister."

    "Your sister?" Fu Yixing froze for a moment. "You have a sister?"

    The woman hesitated, panic shing in her eyes, and quickly shifted her gaze away.

    "No... I misspoke."

    Seeing her anxious expression, Fu Yixing quickly held her shoulders, steadying her. "Qingnuan, with the rtionship we have now, are you still hiding things from me?"

    Su Yuerou furrowed her brow and pushed Fu Yixing away, speaking anxiously. "Don¡¯t call me Qingnuan!"

    "..."

    Fu Yixing looked at her with confusion, his expression bewildered.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" he asked.

    Su Yuerou held her forehead and sat down, her face full of defeat.

    "Yixing, I..." Suddenly, Su Qingnuan covered her face, bending over and crying softly. "I¡¯m not Su Qingnuan..."

    "...What do you mean?" Fu Yixing stared at her in shock and asked in confusion. "You¡¯re not Su Yuerou¡¯s sister?"

    His eyes darkened as his brows furrowed deeply.

    But Su Yuerou didn¡¯t notice. She lowered her head and shook it slowly. "I¡¯m not her sister."

    "Then who are you?" Fu Yixing looked at the woman in front of him warily, instinctively stepping back.

    Su Yuerou raised her head, her eyes filled with pain and a hint of hope.

    "I¡¯m her younger sister. I¡¯m Su Yuerou."

    Fu Yixing froze, standing rooted to the spot as he stared at her incredulously.

    "You don¡¯t believe me?" Su Yuerou stood up, ignoring the covers that fell gently to the floor. She grabbed Fu Yihan¡¯s hand. "Everything I said is true. Back then, because of our mother¡¯s wishes, she wouldn¡¯t let me marry the Eldest Young Master. That¡¯s why she let my sister take my ce. I disagreed at the time, but now whenever I see my sister, I feel incredibly guilty."

    As she reached her emotional breaking point, tears streamed down her face.

    She always had a bright and cheerful demeanor, but to see her suddenly cry like this stirred pity in Fu Yixing¡¯s heart.

    He felt a pang and held her in his arms gently, speaking softly. "It¡¯s understandable that your mother acted that way, considering my brother¡¯s health."

    "At home, my sister used to love me dearly. She always gave way to me in everything. Mother treated her incredibly well too. But after she married into the Fu family, she became distant and barely paid attention to us anymore..."

    At this point, Su Yuerou looked increasingly heartbroken, leaning against Fu Yixing and sobbing softly.

    "I see..." Fu Yixing¡¯s gaze grew dark, and he sneered. "Perhaps she thought she¡¯d climbed to the top and decided to look down on others."

    "Yixing..." Su Yuerou frowned, looked up, and spoke gently. "Don¡¯t say that about my sister. She wouldn¡¯t do that."

    "Wouldn¡¯t?" Fu Yixing said coldly. "You haven¡¯t seen how your sister acts all high and mighty in our household."

    "Hmm?" Su Yuerou looked at him curiously. "How is my sister doing in the Fu family? She never tells us anything, and we¡¯re too afraid to ask."

    "Well!" Fu Yixing¡¯s eyes shed with resentment, his smile growing colder. "She¡¯s living quite well. Both you and Aunt have no reason to feel guilty. She¡¯s enjoying nothing but blessings in our home."

    "Really?" Su Yuerou cautiously looked at Fu Yixing. "Then... if Grandpa finds out she¡¯s not Su Yuerou, will he be angry?"

    Fu Yixing paused for a moment, his fingers brushing against Su Yuerou¡¯s delicate shoulder as his lips curved slightly upward. "Let¡¯s keep this matter from Grandpa for the time being."

    "I thought the same." Su Yuerou said helplessly. "He¡¯s old and in poor health. It¡¯s better not to constantly provoke him."

    Fu Yixing chuckled faintly and nodded. "You¡¯re absolutely right. It¡¯s better to avoid upsetting the elderly."

    The two exchanged a smile as Fu Yixing¡¯s hands began to wander.

    Su Yuerou giggled coquettishly, leaning into Fu Yixing and savoring the strong and steady beat of his heart.

    ...

    On the first day of the month, Su Qingnuan had just finished her work when she suddenly sneezed.

    "What¡¯s wrong? Caught a cold?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked curiously.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, rubbing her forehead and sighed. "Probably from the drinks the other night."

    "You only had two sses, not even as much as me," Gu Xiaoxiao rolled her eyes and said irritably. "I thought something good wasing my way, but it turned out I was just there to take one for the team."

    "..." Su Qingnuan quickly hugged Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulders and smiled. "Thank you for your hard work. I owe you a meal."

    "You better remember that and not just say it," Gu Xiaoxiao said sharply.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled. "When have you ever seen me not follow through? How about tonight?"

    "You said it!" Gu Xiaoxiao perked up instantly, fixing her gaze on Su Qingnuan and urging her. "Hurry up and inform your man!"

    "Alright, alright!"

    Su Qingnuan took out her phone and called Fu Yihan. The call was quickly answered.

    After hearing her ns to stay outte, there was a moment of silence before the call was abruptly hung up.

    Su Qingnuan stared at the phone as the dial tone beeped, unsure if he had agreed or not.

    Just as Su Qingnuan was hesitating over whether to call back and ask, Ah Qi¡¯s call came through.

    "Madam," Ah Qi¡¯s respectful voice came from the other end of the call. "Please send me the address of the restaurantter. I¡¯ll pick you up tonight."

    "Ah..." Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment before asking tentatively. "Did Mr. Fu say anything?"

    Ah Qi nced at Fu Yihan¡¯s expressionless face and responded softly. "He didn¡¯t."

    "That¡¯s good." Su Qingnuan sighed in relief, finally smiling. "Ah Qi, thank you for the trouble."

    "It¡¯s my pleasure, Madam."

    After hanging up the phone, Ah Qi looked toward Fu Yihan.

    "Eldest Young Master, it¡¯s done."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan acknowledged casually with a nod.

 Chapter 134 Accidental Encounter with Qin Man

    <h4>Chapter 134: Chapter 134 idental Encounter with Qin Man</h4>

    Just now, when he hung up the phone, he clearly exuded an aura of coldness, but now he¡¯s pretending not to care.

    Ah Qi gave a helpless smile and turned to leave the room.

    "Wait."

    Ah Qi turned back.

    Fu Yihan finally lifted his head, his deep eyes fixed on Ah Qi.

    For a long moment, nothing happened.

    "Eldest Young Master?" Ah Qi asked, puzzled.

    Fu Yihan frowned. "We¡¯re not going home for dinner today. Find a ce with decent food; we¡¯ll eat out."

    "...Alright."

    He kept a stern face until Ah Qi left the office, and only then did he rx slightly.

    That wasn¡¯t what he nned to say!

    Fu Yihan threw the document in his hand aside, leaning back in his chair, his deep eyes filled with a trace of confusion.

    ...

    "Settled?" Gu Xiaoxiao leaned over with a smile and asked.

    Su Qingnuan squinted her eyes and smiled. "Yes."

    "Then what should we eatter?"

    What to eat...

    Having meals at the Fu family house these days meant a variety of dishes every day, and Su Qingnuan never had to worry about what to eat.

    But now that they were dining out, she suddenly had to figure it out on her own.

    "I don¡¯t know either." Su Qingnuan spread her hands helplessly and said, "I haven¡¯t had to think about this in ages. How about you decide? Whatever you want to eat, just say it, my treat."

    "How generous." Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her suspiciously. "Feeling rich?"

    "Not exactly, but I¡¯ve got some pocket money,"

    Pulling out a bank card, Su Qingnuan waved it proudly and grinned. "My dad gave it to me."

    "..." Gu Xiaoxiao swallowed hard and chuckled. "Alright then, I won¡¯t hold back."

    Seeing her mischievous grin, Su Qingnuan felt an unexpected pang of regret.

    But after much deliberation, Gu Xiaoxiao still decided on Western cuisine in the end.

    "I¡¯m on a diettely. Only steak doesn¡¯t make me fat, so steak it is." Gu Xiaoxiao said mournfully.

    Su Qingnuan nodded with a smile. "This is your choice. Don¡¯t me me for not treating you to something better."

    "Got it, got it, I understand."

    The two chose a rtively well-known restaurant, reserved a table, and headed over after work.

    This restaurant was located in the heart of the shopping district, and sitting inside, therge windows offered a view of bustling crowds below.

    "Today, I¡¯m having two steaks, and no one¡¯s stopping me!"

    Su Qingnuan nced sideways to see Gu Xiaoxiao carefully studying the menu.

    "Fine by me, but however much you order, you have to finish. If you don¡¯t, you¡¯re packing it up to take home with me." Su Qingnuan said sternly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao gave her a quick nce and nodded. "Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll finish it all."

    After ordering two steaks, Gu Xiaoxiao handed the menu to Su Qingnuan.

    "You take your time and order; I¡¯m going to the bathroom."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head and studied the menu.

    Suddenly, the light in front of her dimmed.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and looked up.

    When she saw who it was, she froze.

    "You..." Su Qingnuan looked at the person standing in front of her, confused. "What are you doing here?"

    The person stared at her intently and asked seriously, "Why are you here?"

    "..." Holding up the menu, Su Qingnuan replied with amusement, "I¡¯m here with a friend for dinner, Miss Qin."

    The person standing before her was none other than the Qin family¡¯s eldest daughter, Qin Man, whom Fu Yihang had recently brought home.

    Qin Man was wearing a short skirt, dressed beautifully, but herplexion didn¡¯t look good.

    Not even the foundation could hide her dark circles.

    Qin Man sat down, facing Su Qingnuan directly.

    "Eldest Young Madam, I wanted to ask if the Second Young Master has been very busytely?"

    "...Fu Yixing?" Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled.

    "Yes."

    Su Qingnuanughed. "Miss Qin, I¡¯m not too clear about the Second Young Master¡¯s affairs. If you want to find him, feel free to go to the Fu residence."

    After all, you¡¯ve already been brought in; surely you should know where the Fu residence is?

    Qin Man¡¯s face changed slightly, frowning. "Yixing told me not to go to the Fu residence, but I haven¡¯t been able to contact him."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan had some understanding of Fu Yixing¡¯s personality.

    She coughed awkwardly and said helplessly, "Miss Qin, I¡¯m Fu Yihan¡¯s wife. Although I live in the Fu residence with the Second Young Master, I really don¡¯t know much about his affairs."

    Qin Man frowned. "Eldest Young Madam, could I trouble you to invite me to the Fu residence as the hostess?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan remained silent, her gaze shifting uneasily.

    Leaving aside whatever might happen if she invited Qin Man, the mere idea of acting as the hostess was already a dilemma.

    How should she respond?

    She was just a nominal Eldest Young Madam and didn¡¯t even have her own freedom. Acting as the hostess was clearly beyond her authority.

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly and shook her head slowly. "Apologies, Miss Qin. Yihan doesn¡¯t like strangersing over to the house, so I..."

    "I could exin myself to the Eldest Young Master!" Qin Man interrupted eagerly. "The Eldest Young Master often works with my father, and I¡¯ve met him several times. I can tell him myself."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan hesitated.

    If the situation allowed, she¡¯d actually like to watch Fu Yixing deal with this drama.

    "Then... do you have Yihan¡¯s phone number?" Su Qingnuan asked tentatively.

    Qin Man immediately pulled out her phone, her eyes lighting up. "Hold on, I¡¯ll ask my father for the number."

    With that, Qin Man walked off with the phone, still ncing back at intervals as if to confirm Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t left.

    Not long after, Gu Xiaoxiao returned and saw Su Qingnuan still holding the menu, puzzled. "You still haven¡¯t decided?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled wryly and exined the situation.

    Following her gaze, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed. "Let me just say, this Second Young Master of yours sure has a way of stirring things up."

    "Shh!" Su Qingnuan red at her, signaling her to be quiet.

    "Eldest Young Madam!" Qin Man came back with the phone, smiling as she said, "I¡¯ve already spoken to the Eldest Young Master, and he agreed."

    "He agreed?" Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned, unable to believe it. "So soon?"

    "Yes." Qin Man nodded with a faint smile. "The Eldest Young Master said he¡¯ll call you ande to pick us up soon."

    "...Ah." Su Qingnuan snapped out of her daze, nodded quickly, and gestured to the empty seat beside her. "Miss Qin, would you like to sit down and have something to eat in the meantime?"

    Qin Man shook her head, pointing not far away as she said, "My friend is still waiting for me over there. I¡¯ll trouble you, Eldest Young Madam, to wait for meter."

    "Alright."

    Watching Qin Man depart, the corners of Su Qingnuan¡¯s mouth curled slightly.

    "This is going to be entertaining," Gu Xiaoxiao said gleefully.

    Su Qingnuan shot her a warning look. "Don¡¯t say anything recklesster, okay?"

    "I got it!" Gu Xiaoxiao pouted and lightly tapped the menu in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand. "Hurry up and order already."

    The two finished their meal at a leisurely pace, and when they went to pay, they saw Qin Man sitting calmly on the sofa near the door, quietly waiting for them.

 Chapter 135: The Show Begins

    <h4>Chapter 135: Chapter 135: The Show Begins</h4>

    "Miss Qin, why are you waiting here?" Su Qingnuan eximed in surprise, "I thought you had left first."

    She had purposely nced at Qin Man¡¯s seat earlier, saw that no one was there, and only then went to settle the bill.

    Qin Man smiled apologetically and stood up. "You were dining. I couldn¡¯t interrupt over personal matters, so I decided to wait here."

    It must be said, Miss Qin¡¯s politeness was trulymendable.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly beckoned Gu Xiaoxiao over with a gentle smile, "Let¡¯s go."

    "Alright."

    As they exited the building, they received a call from Ah Qi.

    "Young Madam, I¡¯m in the garage waiting for you all."

    "Got it."

    After hanging up the phone, Su Qingnuan led the two down to the garage.

    Ah Qi¡¯s car was parked directly in front of the elevator, easily visible.

    Su Qingnuan jogged over, her eyes instinctively drifting to the back seat.

    Noticing her gaze, Ah Qi chuckled. "The Eldest Young Master went back ahead to wait for you."

    "Oh...." Disappointment evident, Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze, opened the car door, and called out to those behind her, "Xiaoxiao, Miss Qin,e on!"

    The three got into the car, and Ah Qi first dropped Xiaoxiao off at her school.

    On the way home, Su Qingnuan¡¯s phone vibrated incessantly with loud alerts.

    Feeling embarrassed, Su Qingnuan chuckled awkwardly and pulled out her phone.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Livestream for me!

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Qingnuan, I want a livestream!

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Qingnuan! Qingnuan! Qingnuan! Hurry and reply to me.

    "..."

    Frowning, Su Qingnuan swiftly tapped at the screen.

    Su Qingnuan: I haven¡¯t reached home yet. Do you realize how awkward it is to have a phone ringing constantly in a silent car?

    The reply came back almost instantly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Got it! Then message me once you¡¯re home.

    Su Qingnuan: Okay.

    After putting away the now-silent phone, Su Qingnuan looked up.

    "Young Madam, you and your friend seem to have such a great rtionship."

    Su Qingnuan paused briefly and turned to look.

    Qin Man was gazing at her with envy. Feeling a bit awkward, Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly and replied, "Xiaoxiao¡ªit¡¯s just her way of being chaotic, but she¡¯s genuinely good to me."

    "Miss Gu¡¯s personality is quite amusing as well." Qin Man smiled gently and added in a low voice, "The people around me all speak differently depending on who they¡¯re conversing with. It¡¯s rare to meet someone as straightforward as Miss Gu."

    This observation wasn¡¯t inurate.

    Even in families like Su¡¯s, most of thepanions were opportunistic, let alone those in Qin Man¡¯s circle.

    Choosing Xiaoxiao as a friend¡ªit was partly for this reason.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and chuckled lightly. "Xiaoxiao¡¯s character is straightforward, but because of it, she¡¯s offended quite a few people."

    "That¡¯s a good thing," Qin Man said with a deeper smile in her eyes. "I heard from the Second Young Master that Young Madam is still studying, right?"

    "Ah... Yes," Su Qingnuan nodded. "I¡¯ll be graduating soon."

    "That¡¯s wonderful... still a student."

    She dropped her gaze and stared at her phone, looking deste.

    Compared to thest time she met Qin Man, today¡¯s Qin Man, though still as gentle, carried a sense of mncholy.

    Was it because of Fu Yihan?

    Su Qingnuan suddenly found herself annoyed¡ªFu Yihan truly was quite the phnderer, causing harm wherever he went.

    As the car came to a stop at the Fu family¡¯s residence, Qin Man¡¯s expression visibly brightened with excitement.

    Su Qingnuan got off the vehicle and led Qin Man into the house.

    "Yihan," Su Qingnuan saw Fu Yihan sitting in the living room and walked over. "Miss Qin is here."

    Fu Yihan turned his head, nced at Qin Man, and slightly nodded. "Miss Qin."

    Qin Man bent forward respectfully and said, "Thank you, Eldest Young Master."

    "No need for formalities." Fu Yihan¡¯s expression remained calm andposed. "I heard from your father that you wish to intern at ourpany?"

    "Yes." Qin Man nodded solemnly, a gentle ripple appearing at the corners of her lips, "My father told me that yourpany is the leading enterprise in this city now. If I were able to learn something here, it would be a stroke of luck for me."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled slightly, his gaze hovering between genuine humor and subtle scrutiny.

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, Qin Man stood upright, dignified but not servile.

    "Are you aware that Fu Yixing is currently managing thepany?" Fu Yihan asked again.

    Blushing faintly, Qin Man gave an almost imperceptible nod. "Yes, I am."

    "So, is Miss Qin¡¯s interest in thepany not purely professional?" Fu Yihan countered.

    "..... No!" Qin Man hurriedly rified, "This was decided by my father. Before this, I hadn¡¯t started a rtionship with Yixing yet."

    Fu Yihan nodded knowingly. "Alright, since Miss Qin insists and as a courtesy to your father, I¡¯ll have Ah Qi take you to thepany tomorrow."

    "Thank you, Mr. Fu."

    "You¡¯re wee." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and turned to the television. "The kitchen is preparing dinner. Miss Qin, why don¡¯t you stay and eat before leaving?"

    Feeling immensely grateful, Qin Man respectfully nodded once more, "Thank you, Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t pay her further attention. His gaze shifted to Su Qingnuan.

    Noticing this, Su Qingnuan promptly stepped over, leaning slightly closer.

    "Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan nced sideways at her. "What did you have for dinner earlier?"

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment before answering earnestly, "Steak."

    "...Was the steak tastier than what¡¯s made at home?"

    "..... The food at home is better."

    His brows rxed slightly, and Fu Yihan returned to his usualposed demeanor, turning his head away. "Avoid eating outside too much in the future¡ªit¡¯s not clean."

    Su Qingnuan understood; he was expressing concern for her health.

    Feeling grateful, Su Qingnuan smiled and said, "Alright."

    Though Fu Yihan kept his eyes on the television, he would asionally ask Su Qingnuan a question.

    He spoke in a rtively calm tone, though the television volume was high, forcing Su Qingnuan to inch closer to him¡ªand by the end, her arm was nearly touching his.

    She didn¡¯t notice this, but Fu Yihan¡¯s contemtive expression asionallynded on their touching shoulders.

    "Yihan?" Su Qingnuan noticed him looking down and asked curiously, "What¡¯s wrong?"

    Pulling back his gaze, Fu Yihan lookedposed as he focused on the television. "The remote control, I don¡¯t want to watch this anymore."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan got up and reached out for the remote control on the coffee table.

    Just as her hand touched the remote, a loud crash suddenly echoed from behind.

    The three turned to look.

    They saw Fu Yixing, reeking of alcohol, leaning against the wall as he stumbled toward the living room.

    The sound came from the shattered fragments strewn around his feet.

    A vase from the shoe cab was gone.

    "Yixing!" Qin Man immediately stood up, rushing over to support him.

    Fu Yixing squinted at her, confused. "Qin Man?"

    "It¡¯s me." Qin Man looked at him anxiously. "Are you hurt? Why¡¯re you drinking so much?"

    "....."

    Pushing Qin Man away impatiently, Fu Yixing frowned. "Didn¡¯t I tell you not toe to the Fu family looking for me?"

    ".... No." Qin Man helplessly stared at him, hands awkwardly fumbling about. "I¡¯m here for the Eldest Young Master. The Eldest Young Master invited me to stay for dinner...."

    "Why are you looking for him?" Fu Yixing¡¯s expression darkened further. "What¡¯s wrong with looking for me? Why must it be him?"

    Qin Man¡¯s face grew pale, and with trembling hands, she took out her phone. "I called you countless times, but you didn¡¯t answer."

 Chapter 136: Humble Woman

    <h4>Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Humble Woman</h4>

    "I¡¯m so busy every day! How do I have time to reply to your messages? Can¡¯t you stay put by yourself?" Fu Yihan looked visibly annoyed and exasperated.

    Qin Man lowered her head, nervously clutching the bag in her hand.

    "I... I know..." Qin Man bit her lip and reached out to tug at the hem of Fu Yihan¡¯s clothes. "Yihan, let¡¯s talk outside, alright? There are people watching here..."

    Her face flushed crimson, as she awkwardly nced toward Su Yangnuan and the others.

    "What¡¯s wrong? You¡¯re here now! Are you still scared of being seen by others?" He mercilessly pushed Qin Man¡¯s hand away. "If so, you should¡¯ve thought of this sooner."

    "Yihan!"

    Tears welled up in Qin Man¡¯s eyes as she looked at him in disbelief. "Why... Why have you be like this?"

    "Like this?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly. "Miss Qin, could you rify¡ªhow exactly have I changed? Didn¡¯t you once say you¡¯d love me no matter what? So that doesn¡¯t count anymore?"

    "No... that¡¯s not it..." Tears streamed down Qin Man¡¯s cheeks as she shook her head slightly. "That wasn¡¯t you¡ªwhere did the understanding, thoughtful Fu Yihan go?"

    "Understanding and thoughtful?!" Fu Yihan bent over abruptly and swept everything off the table with his hands.

    The sound of crashing and ttering filled the room, leaving the ce in disarray.

    "There¡¯s never been anything ¡¯understanding and thoughtful.¡¯ It was all an act!" Fu Yihan¡¯s bloodshot eyes red at her furiously. "Don¡¯t me me, Miss Qin¡ªI was serious about marrying you, but my family wouldn¡¯t allow it."

    He raised his hand and pointed toward the door, his expression icy. "I had nned to tell youter, or perhaps let you find out on your own. But since you insist on making a fuss, let¡¯sy it all out now."

    "...You." Qin Man¡¯s voice trembled as she stared at him in disbelief. "Is this all you wanted to say?"

    "Yes." His face was cold, devoid of the slightest trace of tenderness.

    "Ha!" Qin Man tilted her head back, trying to hold back her tears. "I see now¡ªit¡¯s been me all along foolishly chasing after something that never existed, hasn¡¯t it?"

    Fu Yihan said nothing, turning his face away and refusing to look at her.

    "Fu Yihan!" Qin Man gritted her teeth, her tears falling uncontrobly. "Is your heart really so cold and unfeeling?"

    "Yes, I¡¯m exactly that cold and unfeeling." Fu Yihan shrugged, his tone casual. "At least you¡¯ve realized it now¡ªit¡¯s not toote."

    "Not toote...?" Qin Man covered her face, retreating a few steps. "So that long stretch of effort I put in over the past few months... what was that supposed to be?"

    "You put in effort; I put in effort. We¡¯ve both done our part. Let¡¯s part ways cleanly and stop dwelling on it."

    "...Fu Yihan, are you truly this ruthless?" Thest glimmer of hope flickered in Qin Man¡¯s eyes as she stared unblinkingly at him.

    Fu Yihan remained unmoved, his expression as cold as ever.

    As time passed, the hope in Qin Man¡¯s eyes gradually faded.

    "I understand now." She wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes and turned away, smiling as she looked toward Su Yangnuan and Fu Yihan.

    "Eldest Young Master, Eldest Young Madam, thank you for your trouble today."

    Su Yangnuan opened her mouth, hesitating as she nced at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan nodded slightly, casting a nce toward the person beside him. "Yue Rou, please escort Miss Qin out."

    "Alright."

    Su Yangnuan stepped in front of Qin Man, noticing her reddened eyes. She spoke gently, "Miss Qin, let¡¯s go."

    Qin Man nodded, following behind Su Yangnuan as they headed toward the door.

    Once outside, the sound of subdued sobbing came from behind.

    Su Yangnuan sighed softly but didn¡¯t know what to say.

    "Here." Su Yangnuan handed over a tissue. "Stop crying."

    Qin Man took the tissue in silence, her head bowed low as she followed along.

    Hearing her sobs quiet down, Su Yangnuan exhaled in relief and continued walking forward.

    Watching Qin Man get into the car and drive away, Su Yangnuan finally turned back and entered the house.

    "Sis-inw."

    The same man who had just hurt another stoodzily leaning against the doorframe, blocking her way into the house.

    Su Yangnuan cast him a cold nce and said nothing.

    "Sis-inw, what¡¯s with that expression?" Fu Yihan smirked as he looked at her. "Not satisfied with what I did?"

    "I wouldn¡¯t dare." Su Yangnuan smiled indifferently. "This is entirely Second Young Master¡¯s affair¡ªit¡¯s not my ce toment."

    "Not bad, seems you¡¯re quite self-aware." Fu Yihan nodded with satisfaction.

    Su Yangnuan chuckled lightly. "Second Young Master, rest assured¡ªI mayck other qualities, but self-awareness is something I definitely possess."

    With that, she bypassed Fu Yihan and headed inside.

    "Wait!" Fu Yihan raised his hand to block her path, a sly smile in his eyes. "Sis-inw, are you hiding something from us?"

    Calling her ¡¯Sis-inw¡¯ at every turn¡ªusually, it was the other person who said it like this. Something about Fu Yihan seemed off.

    Su Yangnuan turned back and gave him an odd look. "What could I possibly hide from you? If anything, you seem suspicious¡ªdid you do something you¡¯re afraid to let Grandpa find out?"

    "I, Fu Yihan, act with a clear conscience!" Fu Yihan replied indignantly. "What are you even suggesting¡ªwhat do you mean by ¡¯something shady¡¯?"

    "I never said that." Su Yangnuan shifted her gaze and replied half-jokingly, "But if Second Young Master insists on admitting it, I wouldn¡¯t have much to say."

    "You!" Fu Yihan pointed a finger at her. "Sharp-tongued! Don¡¯t forget your own status!"

    Su Yangnuan smirked. "Rest assured, Second Young Master¡ªI¡¯m very aware of my status. I wouldn¡¯t dare overstep."

    After speaking, she ignored any reaction he might have and continued walking inside.

    Fu Yihan still sat by the sofa and lifted his head upon hearing footsteps.

    His eyes were calm and indifferent, as if looking at a stranger.

    "Ran into Fu Yihan?" he asked.

    "Mm." Su Yangnuan naturally walked behind him and began pushing the wheelchair.

    "What did he say?"

    "Nothing much; my guess is he couldn¡¯t stand me and wanted to belittle me a little."

    "Heh!" Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and said coldly, "Don¡¯t bother with him."

    Feeling slightly warm inside, Su Yangnuan nodded. "Alright."

    "How¡¯s work at thepany?" Fu Yihan asked abruptly.

    Su Yangnuan paused for a moment, then quickly nodded. "Mr. Fu, don¡¯t worry! I¡¯ll make sure to work hard!"

    The man sitting before her lifted his head, his cool gaze fixed on her intently.

    Did she say something wrong?

    Su Yangnuan blinked, puzzled, and stared at Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu?" she asked cautiously. "Did I say something wrong?"

    "No." He withdrew his chilly gaze, his tone void of emotion. He pushed Su Yangnuan¡¯s hand away. "I¡¯m heading back to my room¡ªyou rx for a while beforeing upstairs."

    "...."

    He¡¯s angry.

    Clearly, he¡¯s angry.

    Though she didn¡¯t know why, based on her observations over the past few days, it was likely her fault.

    Su Yangnuan stood obediently in ce, not daring to move recklessly.

    Only when Fu Yihan¡¯s figure was no longer visible did she pull her gaze back and sit down helplessly.

    Talking to Fu Yihan is truly an art¡ªjust a slight misstep, and he¡¯s upset.

    Not only that, he¡¯s exceptionally skilled at showing her his displeasure.

    This arrogant personality¡ªit has no trace of his cold and ruthless reputation.

 Chapter 137: Cheating

    <h4>Chapter 137: Chapter 137: Cheating</h4>

    On the first day of the month, Su Qingnuan had just arrived at the office when Gu Xiaoxiao began pestering her.

    "Why didn¡¯t you live stream for me yesterday? What happened afterward? Did that Miss Qin make a scene at your house?"

    "No." Su Qingnuan shook her head helplessly. "Fu Yihan said a few words, and she left."

    "That simple?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked in disbelief.

    "Yeah." Su Qingnuan nodded and chuckled. "What else would you expect? Miss Qin, after all, is someone with a certain social standing. Even if she had something to say, she wouldn¡¯t voice it in front of so many people."

    "Makes sense." Gu Xiaoxiao sighed. "You wealthy families even have to consider the situation before getting angry¡ªhow exhausting."

    "Who wouldn¡¯t agree..." Su Qingnuan murmured softly. "When I saw Miss Qin¡¯s expression, I thought she might lose her temper on the spot."

    "Unfortunately, Miss Qin didn¡¯t."

    Suddenly, Gu Xiaoxiao turned her head and asked tentatively, "I heard you say that Miss Qin¡¯s father has business dealings with the Fu family. Could it be...?"

    "I don¡¯t know." Cutting off Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s spection, Su Qingnuan replied earnestly, "This isn¡¯t something we should be discussing."

    "Alright then..."

    Putting her curiosity aside, Gu Xiaoxiao returned to her work.

    However, Su Qingnuan found it difficult to settle her thoughts.

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s words had indeed reminded her.

    Yesterday, Miss Qin mentioned wanting to work at the Fu family¡¯spany. Now, given how things turned out, would Qin Man still pursue it?

    Driven by curiosity, Su Qingnuan discreetly picked up her phone and, while Gu Xiaoxiao wasn¡¯t looking, sent a message to Ah Qi.

    ...

    "President Fu, your phone is ringing."

    Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows slightly and extended his hand without looking up.

    The assistant hurriedly handed the phone over.

    Taking the phone and ncing at it, Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "This isn¡¯t my phone."

    "Ah?" The assistant froze briefly. "But when you arrived this morning, the phone you handed me was this one."

    This was Ah Qi¡¯s phone, which had been left behind earlier. Fu Yihan had brought it along with him.

    Ah Qi¡¯s phone had been gifted to him by Fu Yihan. Its interface was meticulously clean, with no password lock, reflecting his distinct style.

    His eyes lingered on the message notification that had popped up unexpectedly, and Fu Yihan remained silent.

    "I¡¯ll handle it." He waved the assistant away. "You may leave now."

    "Understood."

    Once the assistant left the office, Fu Yihan opened the phone and checked the message.

    Young Madam: Ah Qi, did you pick up Miss Qin today?

    When did she get so familiar with Ah Qi?

    Frowning deeply, Fu Yihan tightened his grip on the phone.

    Usually, when interacting with him, she was overly polite, practically trembling in fear, as if she were staring King Yan in the eye.

    Yet, she seemed perfectly at ease with Ah Qiughing and chatting casually on multiple asions.

    To his surprise, the two had even exchanged contact information.

    Biting his lip, he started typing a reply.

    ...

    "Qingnuan, your phone is ringing."

    "Coming!"

    She hurriedly ran over and picked up her phone before Gu Xiaoxiao could notice.

    Ah Qi: Come upstairs to the office.

    Huh?

    Asking her toe to the office? Did Mr. Fu happen to be in thepany today?

    With that thought, Su Qingnuan quickly entrusted her tasks to Gu Xiaoxiao without dy.

    "Xiaoxiao, cover for me¡ªI need to head upstairs."

    "Alright."

    Rushing into the elevator, she soon arrived at the spacious room upstairs, but it waspletely empty.

    "Ah Qi?" Su Qingnuan questioned. "Mr. Fu?"

    *ck, ck¡ª*

    The sound of wheels rolling echoed clearly.

    Peeking around, Su Qingnuan saw Mr. Fu maneuvering his wheelchair toward her.

    She quickly stepped forward and instinctively took hold of the wheelchair handles.

    "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re at thepany today too?"

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan smirked coldly. "Upset that I¡¯m here?"

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly and shook her head hurriedly. "Not at all! Why would I be unhappy?"

    She was, of course, delighted to see him here. But judging by his current expression, Su Qingnuan felt that no matter what she said, it might somehownd her in trouble.

    "Hypocrite."

    As expected...

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly, looking at Fu Yihan helplessly.

    "Mr. Fu, I really didn¡¯t mean that...."

    Her weak and feeble attempt at exining sounded far from convincing.

    Coldly, Fu Yihan interrupted her. "Enough. I don¡¯t want your exnations. I wouldn¡¯t listen to them anyway."

    "..."

    How utterly unreasonable...

    Feeling wronged, Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan and cautiously asked, "Mr. Fu, did Ah Qi ask me toe to the office because there¡¯s something you need me to do?"

    With an icy look, Fu Yihan ced a phone in her hand.

    Startled, she caught the phone and looked at him with confusion.

    "See for yourself."

    Opening the phone as instructed, Su Qingnuan froze when she saw the chat disyed on the screen.

    "Why are you so concerned about Qin Man?" Fu Yihan demanded.

    "..."

    Feeling awkward, Su Qingnuan set the phone down and studied Fu Yihan¡¯s expression carefully.

    Neither angry nor pleased¡ªhis emotions weren¡¯t particrly evident.

    Rxing slightly, Su Qingnuan exined, "I just thought she seemed pitiful yesterday, and if she came to work at thepany, it might be awkward facing Fu Yihang."

    "How is that any of your concern?"

    "...It isn¡¯t."

    "Then why are you asking so many questions?"

    Facing Fu Yihan¡¯s frosty demeanor, Su Qingnuan suddenly found herself speechless.

    Why had she even asked?

    Most likely out of curiosity, but she knew deep down that her curiosity could have been suppressed.

    Not only did she fail to rein it in, but she also allowed it to drive her to probe further.

    From the start, it hadn¡¯t been mere curiosity.

    Recalling how miserably Qin Man had been rejected yesterday, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t deny she felt a pang of pity.

    All she¡¯d done was seek a flimsy excuse to justify her concern for this situation.

    With that thought, Su Qingnuan sighed deeply. "Maybe it¡¯s sympathy? After all, what happened to her yesterday was just so... cruel."

    "Still¡ªwhat does that have to do with you?"

    "....Nothing...."

    With a light chuckle, Fu Yihan gazed at her intently. "Remember what you just said. None of this has anything to do with you, so stop meddling."

    "...Understood."

    Seeing her obedient and docile demeanor, Fu Yihan scoffed coldly. "Don¡¯t act all sweet andpliant in front of me, who knows what you say about me behind my back."

    "I don¡¯t!" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. "Mr. Fu, how could you think that of me?"

    His ghostly gaze fell on the phone, his expression cool and collected as he watched her.

    *Cough¡ª*

    Awkwardly ncing away, Su Qingnuan murmured softly, "I was simply curious... It didn¡¯t mean anything else."

    "Oh?"

    "Really!" She raised her hand solemnly and spoke earnestly. "Mr. Fu, if this bothers you, I promise I won¡¯t ask anything again in the future."

    Her expression was serious, her tone cautious¡ªshe didn¡¯t appear to be joking.

    "Alright."

    The icy edge in Fu Yihan¡¯s tone softened ever so slightly.

 Chapter 138 Mr. Fu When Heéˆ¥æªš Idle

    <h4>Chapter 138: Chapter 138 Mr. Fu When He¡¯s Idle</h4>

    "Alright, if you¡¯ve got nothing else to do, stop cking off here. You can go now."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, confused, and asked, "Mr. Fu, didn¡¯t you call me to the office because I thought..."

    "Thought what?" Fu Yihan frowned. "Wasn¡¯t what I just said clear enough?"

    What did he just say? Other than scolding her earlier, did he mention anything else?

    Su Qingnuan was utterly puzzled, staring at Fu Yihan¡¯s expression with even more confusion.

    "Can¡¯t remember?" Fu Yihan slightly furrowed his brows, turning around indifferently. "If you can¡¯t remember, go back and think about it slowly. I have work to do."

    Great, that was clearly a dismissal.

    "Alright..."

    Su Qingnuan left, while Fu Yihan casually tossed A-Qi¡¯s phone onto the sofa and turned back into the room.

    ...

    "Eh? Back already?" Noticing Su Qingnuan¡¯s dejected expression, Gu Xiaoxiao asked curiously, "What¡¯s wrong with you?"

    Su Qingnuan looked at Gu Xiaoxiao with suspicion. "Xiaoxiao, do you think I have a harsh way of speaking?"

    "Huh?" Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "If even you sound harsh when speaking, then I¡¯ve never met anyone who sounds pleasant."

    "..."

    She was always kind to everyone and had never encountered someone as hard to please as Fu Yihan.

    "Sigh..." Su Qingnuan let out a long sigh, exasperated. "Then why do I always manage to anger Mr. Fu?"

    "Your guy?" Gu Xiaoxiao teased.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, resting her chin on her hand with a look of helplessness. "These past few days, I¡¯ve been realizing that no matter what I say, I somehow end up making him angry."

    The key problem is, she couldn¡¯t even figure out the reason.

    At the thought of this, Su Qingnuan felt somewhat defeated.

    Seeing her frustrated expression, Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled and said, "From what I see, he¡¯s not mad. He¡¯s jealous."

    "Don¡¯t joke around."

    With her rtionship with Fu Yihan, how could he possibly be jealous?

    Su Qingnuan sat down and leaned on Gu Xiaoxiao. "When he used to get mad, I¡¯d make him soup. It worked at first, but recently, it doesn¡¯t seem to help."

    "Stopped working already?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s grin widened as she stared at her. "Or maybe your guy wants something else?"

    "Something else?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion. "What else?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao beckoned her closer with a curl of her finger and whispered, "Come here. Let me teach you."

    Su Qingnuan leaned closer.

    "Maybe your guy just wants you to take the initiative to keep himpany?"

    "Take the initiative to keep himpany?" Su Qingnuan frowned and shook her head. "Impossible. If he really..."

    "There¡¯s no such thing as ¡¯impossible¡¯!" Gu Xiaoxiao interrupted with a tone of frustrated exasperation. "Don¡¯t dismiss my suggestion first. Just try it tonight. If your guy isn¡¯t satisfied, then it¡¯s not what I thought."

    "Are you sure?" Su Qingnuan regarded Gu Xiaoxiao skeptically.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded firmly. "Positive."

    "...Alright then." Su Qingnuan nodded reluctantly. "I¡¯ll give it a try."

    After all, at this point, she didn¡¯t have any better ideas.

    "Alright... here¡¯s what you¡¯ll do when you get back tonight..."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan sat on the sofa, her gaze flickering with uncertainty.

    At this moment, the Fu family¡¯s living room was quiet. There was no sight of the old man, no Fu Yihan, and certainly no annoying Fu Yixing.

    In such a tranquil environment, Su Qingnuan should have felt at ease, but reality was quite the opposite.

    She was restless, constantly ncing toward the door.

    Fu Yihan still hadn¡¯t returned.

    It was already 8 p.m. For him to still be out at this hour was quite unusual.

    Su Qingnuan picked up her phone and dialed Fu Yihan¡¯s number.

    But no one answered on the other end.

    Still angry?

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly and put the phone down.

    "Yuerou, why are you sitting in the living room by yourself?"

    The old man entered and noticed Su Qingnuan sitting there holding her phone. "Where¡¯s Yihan?" he asked curiously.

    "Ah..." Su Qingnuan forced a smile. "Yihan¡¯s still out. He hasn¡¯t returned yet."

    "Still not back sote?" The old man frowned disapprovingly as he pulled out his phone.

    "Hey! Grandpa!" Su Qingnuan quickly stopped the old man. "A-Qi is with him. It¡¯s fine."

    "..."

    Putting his phone away slowly, the old man¡¯s frown didn¡¯t rx. "I know you care about him, but you can¡¯t indulge him endlessly, alright?"

    "I understand, Grandpa."

    The old man nodded and went back to his room.

    Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief and went upstairs to wait in her room.

    However, even as the night grew quiet, there was still no sign of Fu Yihan.

    Su Qingnuan leaned against the sofa and fell into a groggy sleep.

    In her dreams, it seemed like someone was calling her, but the voice was faint.

    For a brief moment, she felt it, but soon, she sank back into her slumber.

    ...

    "Go grab a nket," Fu Yihan said in a low voice.

    A-Qi nodded and turned into the room.

    It was already 1 a.m. when Fu Yihan returned home. He thought everyone would already be sleeping.

    But upon entering the house, he found one exception remaining in the living room.

    Looking at Su Qingnuan¡¯s rosy little face, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips couldn¡¯t help but curve upward slightly.

    She was already this tired, so why wasn¡¯t she resting in her room? What was she doing sleeping on the sofa?

    He had called out several times earlier, but she didn¡¯t wake up.

    Who knows what this girl was thinking?

    "Eldest Young Master, the nket."

    Taking the nket from A-Qi, Fu Yihan draped it over Su Qingnuan.

    "You can go rest now," Fu Yihan said.

    Hearing the soft click of the door closing, Fu Yihan moved his wheelchair, turning off the lights.

    The only light left in the living room was a smallmp by the sofa. Its warm glow illuminated Su Qingnuan¡¯s sleeping face, creating a particrly cozy scene.

    At moments like these, the sound of a wheelchair¡¯s wheels rumbling on the floor felt especially irksome.

    Fu Yihan sat still, two meters away, quietly gazing at Su Qingnuan.

    He didn¡¯t know when it started, but there was always this little girl by his side, constantly attuned to his mood. Even if her gaze carried a hint of fear, it didn¡¯t diminish the feelings her presence stirred in him.

    "Mmm¡ª"

    A soft hum escaped her lips, and the once-soundly sleeping girl slowly opened her eyes.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan rubbed her eyes and slowly sat up. "You¡¯re back?"

    "Mm." Fu Yihan nodded. "Why didn¡¯t you go back to your room to sleep?"

    Lowering her gaze, Su Qingnuan noticed the nket covering her and smiled sheepishly. "I was waiting for you. I must have dozed off without realizing."

    "Waiting for me?" Fu Yihan asked, not too pleased. "If you were going to wait, you could have done so in your room. Sleeping on the sofa in this weather, are you trying to get sick?"

    "...I didn¡¯t do it on purpose." Su Qingnuan rubbed her forehead and said helplessly, "I was just waiting and waiting... then I fell asleep. I didn¡¯t even realize."

    Seeing her innocent expression, Fu Yihan sighed inwardly.

    "Forget it. What were you waiting for me for?"

    "Ah!" Su Qingnuan suddenly remembered and got up quickly. "I prepared a gift for you!"

    "A gift? For me?" Fu Yihan looked at her doubtfully. "It¡¯s not a holiday or anything, so why a gift?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curled into a mysterious smile. "Just wait, Mr. Fu."

 Chapter 139: Promise

    <h4>Chapter 139: Chapter 139: Promise</h4>

    Su Qingnuan jogged into the house, and shortly after came running back out.

    "This is for you." Su Qingnuan held a delicate box in her hand, crouching in front of Fu Yihan, "Take a look."

    With a puzzled look, Fu Yihan took the box and frowned slightly, "What is this?"

    "You¡¯ll know once you open it."

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s expectant gaze, Fu Yihan slowly opened the box.

    Inside the ck boxy a beige necktie quietly.

    The tie was embroidered with cloud patterns in gold thread, and the scattered clouds seemed alive on the slender tie.

    "Did you buy this?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and stood up, "Do you like it?"

    "I have many ties." Fu Yihan closed the lid and ced the box on the table beside him, "There was no need to buy this."

    "..."

    Just as I thought...

    Su Qingnuan took a deep breath, quickly grabbed the box, and deftly opened it.

    "I know Mr. Fu has many ties, but when I saw this yesterday, I thought it suited you very well, so I bought it especially for you."

    She took the tie out and gestured around Fu Yihan¡¯s chest, smiling lightly, "Mr. Fu, let me try it on you? This color really suits you!"

    "Suits me?" Fu Yihan looked at Su Qingnuan with a strange expression, "Are you sure?"

    "Yes, yes!"

    With that, Su Qingnuan bent down, reaching her hands around Fu Yihan.

    "Xiaoxiao told me that a tie is a man¡¯s signature." Su Qingnuan said with a smile on her lips, as she gently draped the tie around Fu Yihan¡¯s neck and slowly pulled it to the front.

    Fu Yihan looked down, observing her pale youthful hands, fumbling not far from his chest.

    What is going on?

    When Xiao Xiao exined it to her, this was how it was tied. To avoid messing it up, she had practiced it several times.

    Feeling awkward, she looked up and whispered, "Mr. Fu, please don¡¯t rush...."

    Watching those increasingly flustered hands, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, with a hint of humor in his eyes, calmly saying, "Uh-huh, I¡¯m not in a hurry."

    His tone carried a yful vibe, as if teasing, yet also as if waiting to see a joke.

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth and carefully recalled the moves she practiced today.

    ording to what Gu Xiaoxiao said, it shoulde out here, then go in here, and also...

    As she moved, Su Qingnuan gradually leaned closer to Fu Yihan.

    "This isn¡¯t right...." Su Qingnuan, annoyed, pulled off the tie, frowning.

    The face so close to him had delicate skin, and the dark eyes were full of emotions, expressing their frustration.

    Her skin was pale, devoid of color for years, her lips also a light shade.

    Fu Yihan suddenly felt a tickle in his throat and grasped Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand, "That¡¯s enough."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s forehead had a thinyer of sweat, nervously she said, "Please bend forward a little more, I¡¯ll fix it right away."

    Noticing the increasingly tangled tie, Fu Yihan pulled her hands away, helplessly saying, "Let me handle it."

    The tie that was running amok in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hands became obedient and tame in Fu Yihan¡¯s.

    Watching him skillfully tie a neat knot, the tie hung quietly around his neck.

    Fu Yihan had typical fair skin and wore a ck shirt, paired with the beige tie adding to his handsome appearance.

    "So good-looking!" Su Qingnuan sped her hands and smiled, "Mr. Fu, this color really suits you well."

    "Really?" Unconsciously lifting his hand, Fu Yihan gently touched the tie around his neck, "It¡¯s not bad."

    "Right?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes sparkled, and if she had a tail it would surely be wagging by now, "Mr. Fu, are you happy?"

    Happy?

    Fu Yihan turned his head, looking at Su Qingnuan¡¯s smiling face, and couldn¡¯t help but raise his lips, "Not bad."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression changed slightly, staring at him in a daze.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan asked, puzzled, "What kind of expression is that?"

    "Mr. Fu, you just....ughed, didn¡¯t you?"

    Although it wasn¡¯t the first time she¡¯d seen him smile, Su Qingnuan still couldn¡¯t believe it¡ªthe cold man¡¯s features were surprisingly soft when he smiled.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s confused expression, Fu Yihan chuckled, "Why? Is there a rule that I can¡¯t smile?"

    "No, no!" Su Qingnuan quickly waved her hands, hurriedly saying, "I just want to say, Mr. Fu, you look so nice when you smile, you should smile more often!"

    "What¡¯s the point of smiling for no reason? Like a fool."

    That¡¯s true too....

    Awkwardly withdrawing her gaze, the curve of Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile grewrger, "It¡¯s nice to smile asionally, it can bring surprises to others."

    ncing at her, Fu Yihan calmly put away his smile and took off the tie from his neck.

    "I¡¯ll keep the tie and your kind gesture too." Fu Yihan¡¯s beautiful eyes looked at Su Qingnuan, smiling softly, "Since you gave me a gift, I can¡¯t be too stingy. Is there anything you want?"

    "Want?" Su Qingnuan was stunned, and her confused gaze met Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes.

    "Yes, what you want. Whether it¡¯s food, clothing, or anything, as long as I can manage it."

    "Ah....." Su Qingnuan quickly waved her hands, "I¡¯m staying at Fu¡¯s house now, I don¡¯tck anything, and I have my own money. Mr. Fu, don¡¯t be polite!"

    "So, you don¡¯t currently have anything you want, right?" Fu Yihan asked, with deep meaning.

    "Yes."

    "Alright then." Fu Yihan turned with the tie in hand, walking back into the house, "I¡¯ll keep this offer for you. Whenever you need something,e ask me."

    "..... Then thank you, Mr. Fu!"

    Fu Yihan waved his hand and closed the door to the room.

    Compared to his attitude during the day, tonight Fu Yihan was clearly happy.

    It seemed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s method was indeed useful.

    On the new moon day, Su Qingnuan arrived at thepany and, upon seeing Gu Xiaoxiao, eagerly dragged her into the break room to talk about the good news.

    "I told you it would work." Gu Xiaoxiao looked at Su Qingnuan proudly, "You didn¡¯t listen to me before."

    "I¡¯m listening, I¡¯m listening!" Su Qingnuan looked excited, though her voice was small, "You have no idea, even this morning, he spoke to me so much more gently!"

    "See?" Gu Xiaoxiao patted Su Qingnuan on the shoulder, her expression smug, "You haven¡¯t been in a rtionship, so it¡¯s understandable you can¡¯t figure out these men¡¯s minds. Come to me if you face any problems in the future."

    "Alright!"

    The two dawdled in the break room for quite a while before returning to the office.

    Su Qingnuan had just sat down in her chair, and their leader came out.

    "Qingnuan, Xiaoxiao, pack up ande with me."

    "Okay!"

    They quickly gathered their things and then followed the supervisor to the car.

    The supervisor sat in the passenger seat, turning back with a serious look at the two in the backseat.

    "When you speak, be careful not to offend thepany boss, understood?"

    The two nodded rapidly.

 Chapter 140: Making Things Difficult

    <h4>Chapter 140: Chapter 140: Making Things Difficult</h4>

    The car stopped at the building entrance, and the three of them hurried into the elevator, carrying their tools upstairs.

    "This system crashes every day. What¡¯s the deal with it?"

    "No idea! It¡¯s happened several times today already. Who can put up with this?"

    "Why haven¡¯t the repair techs shown up yet?"

    "Didn¡¯t we call them already?"

    As soon as the elevator doors opened, a string of urgent voices met their ears.

    The supervisor grabbed his bag and jogged forward.

    "Hey! They¡¯re here! They¡¯re here!"

    The people gathered together immediately stepped aside, creating a path for the supervisor to step in.

    Su Yuerou and Gu Xiaoxiao quickly followed him.

    Surrounded by the crowd was aputer, its screen disying a blue interface that was constantly refreshing with lines of English text.

    "Supervisor Gao, this is the third time today!" Someone said irritably, "Can¡¯t we get it fixed already?"

    Supervisor Gao wiped the sweat off his forehead and said with a forced smile, "Rx. We¡¯ll take care of it right now."

    He quickly shut theputer down and restarted it, cycling through the motions several times to no avail.

    Frowning, Supervisor Gao turned to the two behind him, "Yuerou, Xiaoxiao, you each boot up twoputers. Yuerou, check for system issues. Xiaoxiao, inspect the hardware."

    "Got it."

    The trio split up to work, their movements swift and efficient.

    Thepany¡¯s system had been outsourced to their firm, with all updates and maintenance handled by their team.

    Now that the system had crashed, the entirepany¡¯s operations were paralyzed. No wonder everyone was up in arms.

    Su Yuerou quickly identified the system bugs and informed Supervisor Gao.

    Supervisor Gao looked tense, his brow furrowed deeply.

    "Yuerou, how long will it take for you to fix the bug?"

    While Supervisor Gao wasn¡¯t well-versed in coding, Su Yuerou was the only one of the three particrly skilled in it.

    Su Yuerou stared at the flickering screen, her eyes glinting with determination.

    "Give me half an hour."

    Seeing the confidence in her gaze, Supervisor Gao nodded, "Alright, half an hour. I¡¯ll notify thepany¡¯s IT department and have them send someone over."

    "Okay."

    She had just thirty minutes. If she couldn¡¯t resolve the issue in that time, she¡¯d have to step aside once the IT team arrived.

    As her fingers danced across the keyboard, Su Yuerou immersed herself entirely in debugging the system.

    ...

    "Hey, hear about the new beauty downstairs?"

    "What beauty? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve finished your work and now have spare time to admire girls here."

    "It¡¯s not like that¡ªthe system¡¯s down, there¡¯s nothing I can do anyway! And that gorgeous girl downstairs? She¡¯s here to fix the bug."

    "You know, the system was easy to use before, so why is it messing up so oftentely?"

    "Who knows..."

    Two colleagues sipped coffee in the break room, their conversation growing increasingly spirited.

    Suddenly, the break room door swung open, drawing everyone¡¯s attention as a man stepped inside, silhouetted against the light.

    "President Fu!" The two immediately straightened up, speaking in unison.

    Fu Yixing¡¯s gaze swept over them with a smile, his voice low: "Someone¡¯s here to fix the system?"

    "Yes!"

    "Good."

    Fu Yixing smiled again and turned to leave.

    The two left behind in the break room exchanged puzzled nces, baffled by his sudden appearance.

    Why had Fu Yixinge in here, anyway?

    On his way downstairs to address the issue, Fu Yixing noticed the scattered groups of employees gossiping among themselves.

    "Hey, that girl seems quite skilled."

    "Skilled, my foot! She hasn¡¯t even fixed it yet."

    "No need to rush..."

    Expressions varied among the people gathered in the office, their discussions disjointed and chaotic.

    Fu Yixing kept walking until his gazended on a familiar profile within the crowd.

    Su Yuerou sat upright at theputer, her posture steady as her focus lit up her face.

    Fu Yixing curved his lips into a smile and approached her.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    His deliberate raps on the desk broke her concentration, prompting her to nce back in confusion.

    The instant her eyes met his shadowed gaze, Su Yuerou froze briefly.

    "Dear sister-inw." Fu Yixing stared at her with feigned politeness, a sly grin tugging at his lips. "What are you doing here?"

    Wasn¡¯t this just fishing for a response?

    Su Yuerou offered a slightly awkward smile before answering as she gestured toward Gu Xiaoxiao, "I came with my colleague to fix the system."

    "Oh?" Fu Yixing raised his eyebrows as if surprised, his curiosity piqued. "I didn¡¯t know my sister-inw hadputer skills."

    "Well..." Su Yuerouughed lightly, "I just picked up a bit out of boredom."

    If anyone from her university overheard this, they¡¯d surely use her of false modesty. But this was Fu Yixing she was dealing with now.

    "Is that so?" Fu Yixing¡¯s tone wasced with dry humor, "You seem pretty capable."

    "It¡¯s mostly appearance." Su Yuerou quickly lowered her gaze as her fingers kept working. "I¡¯m busy right now, so I¡¯ll have to cut short our chat, Second Master."

    Fu Yixing smiled faintly, remaining quietly nearby without furtherment.

    After a while, he pulled out his phone, his lips quirked up as the sound of keypad clicks filled the room.

    When theputer screen finally returned to normal, Su Yuerou let out a sigh of relief.

    "Supervisor Gao." She got up and turned to him. "It¡¯s done."

    Supervisor Gao paused for a moment before hurrying over.

    When he saw the restoredputer, his face split into a grin as he pped her on the shoulder. "Nice work!"

    Su Yuerou scratched her head and smiled modestly, "You might want to double-check. There are some areas I¡¯m not fully familiar with."

    "No problem, I¡¯ll handle the final touches from here."

    Supervisor Gao took her seat and skillfully resumed the repairs.

    Su Yuerou watched the process¡ªshe understood parts of it but couldn¡¯t grasp the detailspletely.

    When she encountered something unclear, she hesitated to ask, feeling like a clueless novice.

    As she wrestled with her internal frustrations, a familiar voice rang out.

    "Yixing!"

    Su Yuerou froze briefly before turning to look.

    Su Xiaorou walked over, dressed in a pale yellow dress, carrying a delicate handbag, her heels cking purposefully on the floor.

    She naturally gravitated toward Fu Yixing, linking her arm with his.

    "Yixing, you called me all the way over here for what?"

    Fu Yixing gestured toward Su Yuerou, his smirk light. "Didn¡¯t your sister-inwe by? Thought you two hadn¡¯t seen each other in a while, so I had youe over to catch up."

    Only then did Su Xiaorou shift her attention to Su Yuerou, as though noticing her for the first time.

    "Little sis!" Su Xiaorou eximed, holding her hand excitedly. "It¡¯s been ages since I saw you. Howe you¡¯re here?"

    With his hand resting leisurely on Su Xiaorou¡¯s shoulder, Fu Yixing shot a mocking nce at Su Yuerou¡¯s toolbox.

    "Our sister-inw is quite talented! Not only can she y piano and guzheng, but she can also repairputers!"

    "Repairputers?" Su Xiaorou¡¯s face tightened in confusion. "Little sis, I don¡¯t remember you knowing how to fixputers. Didn¡¯t you major in vocal performance in college?"

    Su Yuerou¡¯s expression hardened as her sharp gaze pierced through Su Xiaorou like a de.

    Despite this, Su Xiaorou pretended not to notice, her smile sweet as she clung affectionately to Fu Yixing¡¯s arm.

    "Could it be that little sis switched schools at some point? And didn¡¯t tell us?"

 Chapter 141 Exposed?

    <h4>Chapter 141: Chapter 141 Exposed?</h4>

    Su Qingnuan clenched her fists tightly, ring hatefully at the woman before her.

    Her gaze fell on their tightly sped hands, such intimate proximity¡ªit was clearly not a mere friendship.

    "Qingnuan." Su Qingnuan forced a smile, her tone serious: "Aren¡¯t you supposed to be at school today? Why did youe here?"

    Su Yuerou blinked, then smiled faintly: "Sister, have you forgotten? I¡¯m about to graduate."

    "..."

    This was intentional.

    Su Qingnuan was absolutely certain that Su Yuerou¡¯s rtionship with Fu Yihan was not simple, and...

    It was likely that Fu Yihan had already discovered her true identity; otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be coborating so seamlessly with Su Yuerou.

    What should she do.....

    Su Qingnuan clenched her fists tighter, her heartbeat elerating.

    Would Fu Yihan choose to expose her identity?

    Would the Fu family throw her away? The Su family certainly wouldn¡¯t take her back.

    If she were cast out of the Fu family, Su Qingnuan truly would have nowhere to go.

    Grinding her teeth, Su Qingnuan strove to maintain herposure.

    "Since you¡¯re almost graduating, why not start job hunting instead of wandering around here?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s tone was calm but carried a sharp edge.

    Su Yuerou narrowed her eyes and examined her, then chuckled: "I¡¯m jobless at the moment. If you feel like being kind, sister, why not help me find one?"

    Su Qingnuan sneered: "I see plenty of street performers out there. You can give that a try."

    "You!" Su Yuerou couldn¡¯t hold back and pointed angrily at Su Qingnuan: "Such a degrading job could onlye to your mind!"

    Her excessively high volume attracted a lot of attention.

    Thepany¡¯s system had crashed, so employees with free time began gathering to enjoy themotion.

    Seeing more and more people gathering, Su Qingnuan frowned: "This isn¡¯t the right ce for a conversation. I still have work to do."

    With that, she turned around, ignoring the pair behind her.

    "Oh please!" Su Yuerou said with amusement, "Little sister, did you lose your memory? This is the Fu family¡¯s property. On your own turf, how could this not be the right ce to talk?"

    This is the Fu family¡¯spany?

    She had never been to the Fu family¡¯spany and didn¡¯t expect that Fu Yihan had expanded his business ventures to his hometown.

    Her brow furrowed slightly as she responded earnestly: "Then let¡¯s talk after work."

    Observing her seriousness, Su Yuerou patted Fu Yihan¡¯s hand.

    Fu Yihan grinned knowingly and raised his voice: "Wasn¡¯t it supposed to be ready in half an hour? Why is it still not fixed?"

    Manager Gao quickly stood up, smiling apologetically: "Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Fu, it¡¯ll be fixed soon!"

    "Soon? You¡¯ve said ¡¯soon¡¯ how many times already?" Fu Yihan frowned and said, "This broken system¡ªhow many times has it crashed this month?"

    Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Manager Gao¡¯s face turned pale: "Ourpany uses the same system, and it¡¯s worked fine for us. We¡¯re not sure why you¡¯re encountering problems here..."

    "So what you¡¯re implying is that the issue is with ourpany, not the system?"

    "No, no!" Manager Gao said softly: "We¡¯ll improve the technology as soon as we head back, ensuring this doesn¡¯t happen again."

    "Enough!" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow disdainfully: "How many times have I heard that before? I¡¯ll give you five more minutes. If you can¡¯t fix it, pack up and leave. We¡¯ll switch to a new system."

    "Please, Mr. Fu!" Manager Gao pleaded desperately: "I¡¯ve already repaired half of it¡ªjust a little more time. Give me half an hour, and it will surely work!"

    "You don¡¯t have half an hour; you have five minutes. Figure it out."

    Supporting himself on the desk, Fu Yihan watched them gleefully.

    Beside him, the ridicule in Su Yuerou¡¯s eyes was undisguised.

    These two were clearly just here to cause trouble!

    Su Qingnuan frowned, ncing at the utterly flustered Manager Gao.

    "Manager," Su Qingnuan whispered, "you continue the repairs; I¡¯ll handle them."

    Manager Gao gave her a skeptical look, lowering his voice: "Can you manage it?"

    "Trust me this time."

    With that, Su Qingnuan walked around the desk to where the pair stood.

    "Sister, Mr. Fu, shall we talk in the lounge?"

    "What lounge?" Su Yuerou asked snarkily. "Aren¡¯t you too busy? We¡¯ll wait here to save you the trouble."

    Fist clenched, Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth: "Sister, where¡¯s Lin An these days?"

    Su Yuerou¡¯s expression shifted slightly as she frowned at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly: "Or should I give him a call and have hime take a look at the current situation?"

    "....."

    Releasing her grip on Fu Yihan¡¯s arm, Su Yuerou said with a shallow smile: "Yihan, let me speak to my sister privately."

    With an odd look passing between the two sisters, Fu Yihan nodded: "Alright."

    He familiarly led Su Qingnuan into the lounge. Su Yuerou folded her arms, standing leisurely as she stared at Su Qingnuan.

    "What do you want to talk about? Spit it out."

    "You and Fu Yihan are together now?" Su Qingnuan asked bluntly.

    Su Yuerou nodded nonchntly: "Yes, we¡¯re together. Is there a problem?"

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly: "He¡¯s not an easy person to deal with."

    "Ha!" Su Yuerou sneered, "Do you think I¡¯m easy to deal with?"

    The statement wasn¡¯t wrong¡ªneither of them was a pushover. Su Qingnuan¡¯s remark was indeed redundant.

    "Since you¡¯ve already made your decision, there¡¯s little for me to say. But I¡¯m at work today, so stop disrupting me."

    "Work?" Su Yuerou said with a sweet smile. "If not for your work, I wouldn¡¯t have bothereding here."

    "What do you mean?" Su Qingnuan asked, her face stoic. "You did this on purpose?"

    "Of course... on purpose." Su Yuerou leaned in closer, her eyes growing darker with malice. "Su Qingnuan, do you know just how envious I am of you? That position should have been mine..."

    She should have been the Fu family¡¯s rightful daughter-inw¡ªits distinguished and legitimate young madam.

    Watching Su Yuerou¡¯s increasingly obsessed expression, Su Qingnuan took a step back, her brow furrowing tighter.

    "Su Yuerou, don¡¯t forget how I ended up married into the Fu family. Do you need me to remind you?"

    Su Yuerou paused briefly, her malice fading, leaving only a faint smile.

    "Yes, we forced you back then¡ªI admit it. But now I¡¯m going to enter the Fu family my own way." Su Yuerou raised an eyebrow, her smile bewitching. "And as for you, you¡¯ll only continue being despised by that cripple until you¡¯re kicked out of the Fu family."

    "...What are you nning?" Su Qingnuan asked cautiously.

    Su Yuerou chuckled lightly: "Oh... you¡¯ll find out soon enough."

    With a crazed smile on her lips, Su Yuerou opened the door and walked out.

    The lounge suddenly fell quiet. The ticking of the wall clock reverberated, each tick echoing in Su Qingnuan¡¯s chest.

    This insufferable girl... What on earth was she nning?

    ...

    "Yihan!" Su Yuerou ran up to Fu Yihan, nestling into his arms as she said softly: "My sister sure knows how to throw her weight around¡ªshe just scolded me."

    Hearing this, Fu Yihan cupped her face and began inspecting her carefully: "Did she hit you?"

 Chapter 142: Bullying Whose Person?

    <h4>Chapter 142: Chapter 142: Bullying Whose Person?</h4>

    Su Yuerou turned her face slightly, revealing the faintly reddened side. The ring imprint of five fingers came into view.

    Without saying a word, she lowered her head. Her thick eyshes hid her emotions, but the sorrow emanating from her was impossible to conceal.

    "It¡¯s fine." Su Yuerou pushed Fu Yihan¡¯s hand away and chuckled softly, "I¡¯m used to it."

    "Used to it?" Fu Yihan furrowed his brows slightly and cast a warning look at Su Qingnuan. "What? Have you been bullying her often?"

    Su Qingnuan looked at Su Yuerou with a smirk. "Me? Bully you?"

    Su Yuerou quickly lowered her head, her body trembling slightly.

    "Look!" Fu Yihan pointed angrily at Su Qingnuan. "Still im you haven¡¯t? Look at how scared Yuerou is!"

    What a case of the thief crying "stop thief." Su Qingnuan returned his rage with a bitterugh, pointing at Su Yuerou. "Why don¡¯t you examine your conscience and ask yourself who¡¯s really at a loss in this family?"

    Su Yuerou raised her tear-filled eyes. "Little sister, since childhood, we have cherished you, but who would¡¯ve thought you¡¯d grow into someone with this kind of personality? If we¡¯d known... If only we¡¯d known..."

    "Nonsense!" Su Qingnuan pressed a trembling hand to her chest, fury making her lips quiver. "If outsiders don¡¯t understand, must you twist facts here?"

    "I didn¡¯t twist the facts!" Su Yuerou looked at Su Qingnuan with heartbreak, sadness written across her face. "Little sister, hasn¡¯t our family always treated you well?"

    Well?

    If they had treated her well, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t be stuck in this awkward, unrewarding position.

    Her heart was pounding wildly. She could hear every beat clearly.

    Su Qingnuan knew that she needed to calm down now, or her heart might not withstand the speed of its pounding.

    Holding her chest, she lowered her head, repeating to herself: Don¡¯t listen, don¡¯t think.

    "I once assumed you were gentle and virtuous. Turns out you¡¯re nothing but an ungrateful person." Fu Yihan¡¯s icy voice rang out. "If my brother found out what kind of person you really are, the Fu family wouldn¡¯t have tolerated you this long."

    Fu Yihan?

    Su Qingnuan squinted slightly as she raised her head. Her heart, beating too rapidly, caused her vision to blur.

    Suspicious nces from the surrounding crowdnded on her.

    There were looks of contempt, doubt, and disdain ¨C a myriad of expressions...

    Her heartbeat only quickened further.

    The figure of Su Yuerou began to blur before her, along with Fu Yihan standing beside her.

    She couldn¡¯t afford to copse...

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, forcing herself to stand upright.

    "Director Gao, how much longer?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Noticing Su Qingnuan¡¯s pale face, Director Gao gritted his teeth and said, "Ten more minutes, Qingnuan, hang in there!"

    If they could just dy Fu Yihan, they might sessfully salvage the project, preventing it from copsing.

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan opened her eyes to gaze at the people in the distance.

    "Say whatever you want. The innocent will be proven innocent."

    "Oh!" Fu Yihan stepped forward, looking down at Su Qingnuan. "What¡¯s the deal? You want to im we¡¯re bullying you? Right now, with so many people watching, better pack your things and get out!"

    With that, he reached out to flip Director Gao¡¯sputer.

    Both of them quickly stopped Fu Yihan. Director Gao smiled apologetically. "Mr. Fu, it¡¯s almost ready. Please, just wait a little longer!"

    "I¡¯m done waiting!"

    With force, Fu Yihan directly shoved Su Qingnuan away.

    Su Qingnuan stumbled backward, mming into the table before copsing to the ground, unconscious.

    "Ah! She¡¯s down!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao rushed to help Su Qingnuan up. Seeing her paleplexion, she eximed, "Quick! Call an ambnce!"

    Someone alerted the emergency services, while Gu Xiaoxiao hurriedlyid Su Qingnuan t and began searching around the desk.

    "Her bag? Where¡¯s Qingnuan¡¯s bag?"

    "Here, here!" Director Gao quickly handed the bag to Gu Xiaoxiao, worry etched on his face as he looked at Su Qingnuan. "What¡¯s happening to her?"

    "Quick! Director Gao, give me water."

    Working together, the two managed to feed Su Qingnuan her medication with difficulty.

    Listening to herbored breathing, Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s heart clenched tightly.

    She hadn¡¯t seen Su Qingnuan suffer an episode in a long time. How could this happen...

    Gu Xiaoxiao shot a fierce look at Fu Yihan, gritting her teeth: "If something happens to her, Mr. Fu, you¡¯ll never hear the end of it!"

    "It¡¯s just a fall, what¡¯s the big deal?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Don¡¯t y weak. The ambnce will be here soon. I¡¯ll cover the hospital costs, okay?"

    Seeing that he showed no remorse, Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly stood up and hurled the documents from the desk at him.

    "What are you doing?!"

    Dodging the papers just in time, Fu Yihan pointed angrily at Gu Xiaoxiao. "Are you crazy?!"

    "You¡¯re the one who¡¯s crazy!" Her gaze shifted to Su Yuerou, who was looking at Su Qingnuan with panic flickering in her eyes.

    Clearly, she knew something about Su Qingnuan¡¯s condition.

    Gu Xiaoxiao curled her lips into a cold smile. "You¡¯re the real malicious woman here!"

    Su Yuerou¡¯s face stiffened as she retreated behind Fu Yihan.

    "You little brat, what nonsense are you spouting?" Fu Yihan snapped angrily.

    Gu Xiaoxiao spat at him, then supported Su Qingnuan onto Director Gao¡¯s back. The two ran out of thepany in a hurry.

    After the three left, Fu Yihan turned back to the gawking crowd, waving them off with a smile. "Alright, show¡¯s over. Get back to work."

    The crowd dispersed, as though everything that had happened was just a fleeting joke.

    "Stop crying." Fu Yihan wrapped his arm around Su Yuerou¡¯s shoulder and headed toward the office. "It¡¯s not worth it for that worthless woman."

    Su Yuerou wiped her eyes and said softly, "But she¡¯s still my sister..."

    "Did you see her just now recognize you as her sister?"

    Fu Yihan cupped her face tenderly, sighing, "Look at this adorable little face. What would happen if it were ruined?"

    "What do you mean, ruined!" Su Yuerou pushed him away in mock annoyance. "I won¡¯t ruin my looks!"

    "Yes, yes, you won¡¯t!"

    The two clung to each other lovingly as they entered the office.

    Once the office door shut, a figure emerged silently from the side hallway, stopping before the door. Eyes filled with anger and hatred burned as they stared intently at the closed door.

    ...

    Her chest ached terribly.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but lift her hand, wanting to press it against her heart.

    But as she raised her hand, something held it down firmly, rendering her unable to move.

    Bound like this, Su Qingnuan slowly opened her eyes.

    The sight of white greeted her ¨C a ce she was all too familiar with.

    With a helpless curl of her lips, Su Qingnuan sighed faintly, "Here we go again..."

    "I thought you wanted toe here."

    The frigid, familiar tone made Su Qingnuan turn her head in shock.

    Fu Yihan sat in his wheelchair, staring at her with a stoic expression.

    "Mr. Fu..." Surprise flickered across her features, swiftly reced by joy. "Why are you here?"

    "As yourwful husband, isn¡¯t it only right for me to be here when my wife is hospitalized?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 143: Unbearable Heartache

    <h4>Chapter 143: Chapter 143: Unbearable Heartache</h4>

    Fu Yihan looked into those clear eyes, and the initial surprise vanished in an instant.

    "What? Disappointed?"

    "No." Su Qingnuan forced a smile. "Mr. Fu¡¯s visit already makes me very happy."

    Even when she was hospitalized before in the Su family, her mother wouldn¡¯t necessarily visit her.

    Her defeated yet helpless expression waspletely taken in by the others. Fu Yihan frowned slightly, gazing at her in thought.

    "Oh!" Su Qingnuan suddenly snapped out of her thoughts and looked toward the door. "What about Xiaoxiao? Wasn¡¯t she the one who brought me to the hospital?"

    "She went back." Retracting his gaze withposure, Fu Yihan looked down at the book in his hand. "She¡¯lle back to watch over you tomorrow."

    "Then tonight...?"

    "I¡¯m staying here."

    "What?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at Fu Yihan.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Without lifting his head, that man calmly asked, "Don¡¯t believe me?"

    "No, it¡¯s not that..." She nervously twisted the hem of her clothes and said softly, "Mr. Fu, your health isn¡¯t good either. If you stay here and something happens..."

    Fu Yihan abruptly lifted his head, his sharp gaze falling directly on Su Qingnuan.

    Her words gradually trailed off.

    "You¡¯re in this state yourself, and you still have the mind to worry about others?"

    His tone wasn¡¯t pleasant, and his expression was even less so.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head, helplessly fidgeting with the edge of the nket.

    Fu Yihan only saw her hands moving back and forth under the covers and furrowed his brows slightly.

    "What? Was I wrong?"

    His tone was a bit aggressive, and Su Qingnuan silently lowered her head.

    Seeing her aggrieved expression, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of softness in his heart.

    The harsh words he originally nned to say were forcibly swallowed back down.

    With a light sigh, Fu Yihan diverted his gaze. "Enough, you¡¯ve just woken up. Don¡¯t think about these things. The doctor will be here for a check-up soon. Just rest properly."

    "Mm...."

    The atmosphere in the hospital room was stifling.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare to speak, while Fu Yihan sat there, motionless.

    Who knows how much time had passed when the sound of footsteps suddenly echoed, followed by the door being pushed open.

    Hearing voices, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but breathe a sigh of relief.

    "Madam, how¡¯s your body feeling?" The doctor looked at Su Qingnuan with concern and asked with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan instinctively pressed her hand to her chest and said in a low voice, "Just feeling a bit of tightness in my chest..."

    "I understand." The doctor smiled gently. "Madam, you¡¯re somewhat aware of your physical condition, right?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded. "I know."

    "From now on, you must be careful, avoid excessive emotions¡ªno extreme joy or sorrow."

    "Okay..."

    After conducting the examination, the doctor left Su Qingnuan¡¯s room.

    Once again, only the two of them remained in the room.

    Stealing a nce at Fu Yihan, who was engrossed in reviewing documents, Su Qingnuan realized that he didn¡¯t seem to notice her gaze.

    What was he so focused on? Was it work-rted?

    She wondered to herself, hesitating before speaking softly.

    "Mr. Fu, has the system... been repaired?"

    Without lifting his head, the man responded with a curt "Mm."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan exhaled in relief.

    Thank goodness it was fixed...

    Seeing the rxed expression on her face, Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "That¡¯s all you care about?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked at him in confusion, unsure of where his sudden displeasure wasing from.

    "You disregard your own health but seem very concerned about thepany. Should I give you a Best Employee Award?"

    "It¡¯s not like that..." Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly. "I just don¡¯t want thepany to lose face."

    "Is thepany asking you to risk your life to save its reputation?" Fu Yihan shot back.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then lowered her head in shame. "I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Fu. It¡¯s my fault."

    Her repeated apologies inexplicably made Fu Yihan feel a stifling difort in his chest, igniting a strange urge tosh out.

    After ring at her for a while, he huffed coldly and wheeled himself out of the room.

    Hearing themotion, Su Qingnuan looked up, catching only a glimpse of his retreating figure.

    Just when she had managed to calm him down, he was angry again...

    Su Qingnuan sighed lightly. This man¡¯s moods... truly harder to predict than a woman¡¯s.

    She thought he had left, but after a moment, he returned.

    Compared to earlier, his expression had softened significantly.

    Following behind him was A Qi, holding a set of bedding in his arms.

    A Qiid the bedding on the spare bed in the room and looked toward Fu Yihan for confirmation.

    Fu Yihan nodded. "This will do."

    "Understood."

    After A Qi left, Fu Yihan wheeled himself over to the bedside and nced at Su Qingnuan.

    She quickly shut her eyes andy down.

    "Stop pretending." Fu Yihan¡¯s voice was cold. "Come here and help me."

    "..."

    Gingerly, she climbed out of bed and went to help him onto the bed.

    As she exerted some force, a wave of dizziness washed over her, almost causing her to copse.

    Fortunately, Fu Yihan reacted quickly and, though seated on the bed, reached out to steady her.

    "Are you feeling unwell?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head. "No, probably just from lying down for too long."

    "...Then stand there."

    "..."

    Watching Fu Yihan lie down nonchntly, leafing through a magazine he had seemingly conjured from nowhere, Su Qingnuan stood at his bedside in her hospital gown.

    An uninformed passerby would genuinely have trouble distinguishing which of the two was the patient.

    After standing for a while, Su Qingnuan began feeling lightheaded and rested a hand on the edge of the bed.

    Noticing this, Fu Yihan frowned. "Go lie down."

    She nodded and climbed back into her bed.

    Once lying down, she felt slightly better and closed her eyes.

    The room was quiet, with only the sound of pages flipping as Fu Yihan read his magazine.

    Surprisingly, she didn¡¯t find the sound intrusive. On the contrary, it was oddlyforting, very much so.

    Gradually, Su Qingnuan closed her eyes and, before she knew it, drifted off to sleep.

    After finishing his magazine, Fu Yihan turned to look at her.

    She was sound asleep, curled up tightly.

    That sleeping posture could easily put pressure on her heart...

    Fu Yihan picked up his phone and made a call. Shortly after, a nurse came in quietly, adjusted her sleeping posture, and left just as quietly.

    At first, Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression seemed resistant, but as her position stabilized, she soon fell back into deep sleep.

    Such a delicate little thing...

    The corners of Fu Yihan¡¯s lips turned up slightly. Lying back down, his gaze lingered on her profile for a moment before he slowly closed his eyes.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan had a dream. In the dream, everything was warm and soft, like lying beneath a radiant light, relishing a rare sense offort.

    But suddenly, the warmth dissipated, and Su Qingnuan awoke with a jolt.

    The stark white surroundings pulled her memory back to reality.

    Turning her head slightly, she caught sight of a sleeping face.

    Fu Yihan was still lying there, his profile facing her.

    It was the first time Su Qingnuan had seen such an unguarded side of him while he slept.

 Chapter 144 Suspension

    <h4>Chapter 144: Chapter 144 Suspension</h4>

    When he was asleep, his brows and eyes rxed, devoid of anger. He looked noticeably softer.

    His lips were slightly parted, seeming to be deeply asleep, and then...

    "Spying on me?"

    Suddenly, his eyes opened wide. He turned to look at Su Qingnuan, his deep eyes sharp and clear, not a hint of grogginess from just waking up.

    "..."

    Quickly averting her gaze, Su Qingnuan stammered, "No... I just woke up too."

    Seeing her flustered reaction, Fu Yihan let out a cold snort and propped himself up to sit.

    "Since you¡¯re awake,e over here and help me."

    "...Okay."

    Helping Fu Yihan into the wheelchair, Su Qingnuan wiped the sweat off her forehead and couldn¡¯t help but reflect¡ªwho¡¯s the one actually recovering in this hospital?

    Noticing her paleplexion, Fu Yihan added, "Go lie down for a bit."

    Su Qingnuan nodded slightly and got back into bed.

    Watching her settle down with practiced ease, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "You¡¯re being discharged today, back home."

    "Mmm..."

    With that said, Fu Yihan headed towards the door, though to do what, she couldn¡¯t tell.

    Su Qingnuan sprawledzily on the bed, her mind nk.

    Time passed unnoticed until gurgling sounds reached her ears. Curious, Su Qingnuan nced over.

    Fu Yihan was carrying a box, walking toward the table.

    "Come eat breakfast."

    Seeing his refreshed demeanor, Su Qingnuan asked hesitantly, "Mr. Fu, did you just go freshen up?"

    "Mmm."

    "..."

    His speed was rather impressive.

    Su Qingnuan ambled into the washroom and found it unexpectedly well-stocked, with everything seemingly set up in pairs.

    It felt like two people were staying here. Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but chuckle wryly.

    After a quick freshening up, Su Qingnuan walked out to sit across from Fu Yihan at the table.

    "After we¡¯re discharged, you¡¯ll head straight home to rest. I¡¯m going to the office."

    Pausing for a moment, Su Qingnuan tentatively nced at Fu Yihan, "Mr. Fu, can I go with you?"

    "Hmm?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and looked at her with a half-smile. "What are you nning to do there?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan set down her utensils, looked at him earnestly, and said, "What happened yesterday¡ªI was there with Manager Gao and the others. If there¡¯s any me, we should take it together. I can¡¯t... "

    "Can¡¯t what?" Fu Yihan interrupted her,ughing coldly. "Do you think I¡¯m going to punish them?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, staring at him nkly.

    Fu Yihan snorted derisively, "Just eat your food. Stop overthinking."

    Under his fixed stare, Su Qingnuan could only relent, picking up her utensils and continuing to eat breakfast.

    Once they finished breakfast, Ah Qi arrived with the discharge papers, informing them they could leave the hospital.

    After changing into the clean clothes Ah Qi brought, Su Qingnuan left the hospital with Fu Yihan.

    "To thepany," Fu Yihan instructed from the car¡¯s back seat, his face void of emotion.

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan nced toward him, grateful.

    Thetter didn¡¯t spare her even a sliver of acknowledgment.

    At thepany, Fu Yihan led them from the parking garage directly into the elevator to his office.

    Pushing the office door open, it turned out not to be empty. On the contrary, a group was already seated in a circle.

    Fu Yihan nced at Ah Qi, who nodded.

    He approached Su Qingnuan¡¯s side and quietly said a few words.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, then followed Ah Qi past the office¡¯s bookshelves to sit in the back lounge.

    The atmosphere outside was heavy; no one dared to meet Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze.

    He sat there, exuding the presence of someone in power, scrutinizing the people below.

    "Start talking."

    His icy tone carried the weight of a death sentence.

    Manager Huang slowly got up, speaking reluctantly, "President Fu, it seems the Fu family doesn¡¯t want to handle this peacefully."

    "Peacefully?" Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved into a mocking smile, the coldness in his eyes deepening, "Since when did I say this was going to be peaceful?"

    "But it¡¯s... the Fu family."

    "And what of it?" Fu Yihan squinted at him, calmly waiting for him to finish.

    "I... I have nothing else to say."

    Fu Yihan snorted coldly, sweeping his gaze over those seated. His tone was resolute, "Stop repairing the Fu family¡¯s systems. Notify them that the partnership is terminated."

    "President Fu!" Manager Huang spoke anxiously, "The Fu family is considered one of our main partners! Nearly all their subsidiarypanies use our systems. If we just..."

    "Stop it."

    The two words were simple, but they carried an air ofmand and dominance that brooked no opposition.

    Manager Huang fell silent, looking seriously at Fu Yihan for a moment before sighing softly.

    "Understood."

    The meeting was entirely dictated by Fu Yihan, leaving no room for contradiction among the employees.

    "That¡¯s all. Dismissed."

    The attendees quickly shuffled out, none wanting to linger in the oppressive atmosphere.

    Only when the door shut did Su Qingnuan cautiously peek her head out.

    Catching sight of her sneaky movement, Fu Yihan snorted dismissively, "Come out."

    Su Qingnuan stepped out, tentatively ncing at him.

    "Mr. Fu, are you really deciding to stop the Fu family from using the systems?"

    "Yes."

    Fu Yihan nced casually at the documents in his hand, "It¡¯s not something for you to worry about."

    Su Qingnuan pursed her lips but couldn¡¯t help murmuring, "Won¡¯t thepany lose a lot of money that way? I remember the Fu family has a lot of affiliatedpanies."

    "Tsk!" Annoyed, Fu Yihan raised his eyes to look at her.

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan quickly covered her mouth, refraining from saying another word.

    Her lively, dancing eyes sparkled like flickering lights¡ªbright and endearing.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and shifted his gaze away. "There are books over there. If you¡¯re bored, go read. We¡¯ll head back after work hours."

    "...Okay."

    Su Qingnuan returned to the lounge, randomly picking up a book to read.

    She had barely sat down when her phone started buzzing incessantly.

    Checking the screen, it was Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s frantic calls.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly dialed back.

    "Qingnuan? Where are you?" Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s voice carried evident annoyance.

    Su Qingnuanughed softly, "What¡¯s wrong? Why so anxious? I¡¯m back home with Mr. Fu."

    At those words, the person on the other end audibly exhaled a sigh of relief.

    "Take a few days off, stay at home and rest properly."

    "What¡¯s going on?" Su Qingnuan picked up on an unusual undertone.

    After a brief silence, Gu Xiaoxiao added, "Nothing, just worried about you. Rest well ande back after you¡¯ve recovered fully. Don¡¯t let what happened before happen again."

    "Alright." Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly, "I get it."

    After hanging up, she twirled her phone around pensively.

    Amid her busy recovery, she realized she had forgotten about an important matter.

    Standing hurriedly, Su Qingnuan walked to Fu Yihan¡¯s desk. He was focused on hisputer.

    "Mr. Fu...." Su Qingnuan spoke softly, "There¡¯s something I need to tell you."

    "Go ahead." His tone was all business.

    Swallowing her nervousness, Su Qingnuan pressed on, "Yesterday, I saw Su Yuerou with Fu Yixing together. They seemed..."

    "Together?" Finally raising his gaze, Fu Yihan frowned at her. "In the literal sense?"

    Nodding quickly, Su Qingnuan confirmed, "Yes."

    The familiar and intimate gestures¡ªthey were unmistakable.

 Chapter 145 Disordered Relationships

    <h4>Chapter 145: Chapter 145 Disordered Rtionships</h4>

    Finally putting down his work, Fu Yihan looked seriously at Su Qingnuan, "And then?"

    And then?

    Su Qingnuan was slightly stunned, looking at him with confusion.

    "You¡¯re telling me about their rtionship at this time, what are you trying to imply?" Fu Yihan¡¯s brows slightly arched, looking at Su Qingnuan with a half-smile.

    "Nothing." The confusion in Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes deepened, "I just wanted to tell you about this, I had no other intentions."

    Her eyes were clear and unblemished, speaking sincerely without any hint of falsehood.

    Fu Yihan stared at her for a while before looking away.

    "Alright, I understand."

    Saying that, he lowered his head again.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan leaned over and tentatively asked, "Mr. Fu, did you think of something just now?"

    "No."

    "But you....."

    Fu Yihan suddenly raised his head, squinting at her.

    ".....Alright, I won¡¯t ask anymore."

    Trembling, she withdrew her gaze and turned back to the lounge.

    Holding a book in her hand, her thoughts were not on the book at all.

    The look in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes just now clearly meant he thought of something.

    Could it be he suspected her of having ulterior motives saying those words?

    But when she said that, she was just telling him about those two, without any other purpose!

    She put down the book, sneakily poked her head out, watching the desk in the distance.

    The person was still seriously working, not noticing Su Qingnuan¡¯s actions at all.

    While working, he bit his lip, his cold and hard profile appearing more indifferent, exuding a "no entry" aura from inside out.

    What is he thinking?

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze followed his face, falling on his hands.

    The ttering of the keyboard wasn¡¯t very pleasant, but his hands were extremely beautiful.

    Fair and slender, with distinct knuckles, moving lively.

    Suddenly, his nimble fingertips stopped.

    Su Qingnuan was mildly stunned, looked up, and met a pair of eyes with a half-smile.

    Quickly withdrawing her gaze, Su Qingnuan hid behind the shelf.

    She was discovered...

    Pinching her flushed cheeks, Su Qingnuan smiled wryly.

    This is too embarrassing...

    Luckily, nothing happened outside, Su Qingnuan pretended not to see that person¡¯s nce, sat back, and pretended to seriously read the book.

    She didn¡¯t know how long had passed, Su Qingnuan heard the sound of gurgling, and looked up.

    Fu Yihan was pushing the wheelchair, appearing at the lounge door.

    "Not hungry?"

    Su Qingnuan was slightly stunned, quickly stood up.

    "Hungry." She obediently said.

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan turned around, Su Qingnuan followed, pushing the wheelchair out.

    At some point, food was ced on the table, looking very appetizing.

    Su Qingnuan sat down, picked up the chopsticks.

    "Eat something light."

    The tone was gentle, like a reminder or an understatedment.

    The chopsticks she extended stopped, Su Qingnuan lifted her gaze, looked at Fu Yihan.

    Thetter was slowly eating, as if he hadn¡¯t been the one speaking earlier.

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan decisively extended her chopsticks towards the light dishes.

    Eaten peacefully, Su Qingnuan consciously stood up, cleaning the table.

    "Leave it there, Aqi will clean upter."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan stopped, looked at Fu Yihan.

    "Mr. Fu, is there anything you need my help with?"

    Fu Yihan nced at her, shook his head, "No, if you¡¯re bored, go sleep."

    Behind the lounge is a bed, specially prepared by Fu Yihan for himself.

    Su Qingnuan looked back, her lips slightly curling up, looked at Fu Yihan, "Mr. Fu, that¡¯s your bed, you don¡¯t mind?"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "If you mind, you don¡¯t have to use it."

    Of course, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t mind, quickly said, "Thank you, Mr. Fu!"

    Saying that, she turned and went to the back of the lounge.

    The new bed was clean and tidy, with a faint fragrance.

    Su Qingnuany down, lying properly, not daring to be a bit disrespectful.

    She originally just wanted to rest for a while but unexpectedly, she slept for quite a while.

    When she opened her eyes again, it was pitch dark outside the window.

    In the darkness, Su Qingnuan opened her eyes, a sliver of light passed through the door crack, shining on the ground.

    Quietly getting up, Su Qingnuan opened the door.

    The office lights were still on, Fu Yihan sitting at the desk, frowning, looking very troubled.

    Su Qingnuan paused, and walked out.

    Upon hearing footsteps, Fu Yihan looked up.

    "Awake?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan responded with a "hmm," and leaned over.

    "Mr. Fu, are you still busy?"

    "No." Fu Yihan closed the documents, bypassing the desk in his wheelchair, "Let¡¯s go, it¡¯s time to go back."

    Naturally standing behind Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan pushed him out.

    Seeing the twoe out, Aqi stationed at the door quickly went to get the car.

    Although just awake, Su Qingnuan still felt a little dizzy.

    She nkly looked at her reflection in the elevator.

    "What are you thinking?" Fu Yihan saw the elevator had stopped, but the person behind had no reaction, so he raised his tone.

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan snapped back, quickly pushed Fu Yihan out, smiling awkwardly, "Got distracted."

    "Hmm, let¡¯s go."

    Upon exiting the elevator, they saw the car parked opposite.

    Getting in the car, Su Qingnuan was fastening her seatbelt when she suddenly heard the person beside her say, "To Huaxiang."

    "Eldest Young Master?" Aqi asked in confusion, "The old man just called asking when you¡¯ll be back."

    Fu Yihan raised a brow nonchntly, "To Huaxiang."

    "...Alright."

    Simrly puzzled, Su Qingnuan looked at Fu Yihan, "Mr. Fu, aren¡¯t we going back?"

    "Hmm, let¡¯s eat first."

    ncing at the silent Aqi, Su Qingnuan could roughly guess, this person probably had a disagreement with the old man again.

    The car stopped in front of Huaxiang, and Aqi pushed Fu Yihan into an elevator from the garage.

    The elevator required a card swipe, and following behind, Su Qingnuan curiously asked, "Is this a private elevator?"

    "No." Aqi shook his head, exining, "It¡¯s a VIP elevator, people with a card can directly enter Huaxiang."

    Huaxiang is considered a famous restaurant in the city, attracting many young people who like novelty to dine here.

    Su Qingnuan had been here once before, but certainly didn¡¯t experience this kind of treatment.

    Nodding in understanding, Su Qingnuan smiled, "I¡¯ll have a feast today."

    The elevator precisely stopped, and Aqi was pushing Fu Yihan out.

    A long corridor appeared, with overwhelming floral patterns entering their view.

    Whether on the walls or the floor, it¡¯s all flowers.

    Most surprising are the vividly lifelike flowers printed on what are clearly wallpaper and floorboards.

    She hadn¡¯t walked this path before.

    The three of them leisurely strolled down the corridor.

    After a short walk, a door would appear, all of them closed.

    Aqi pushed Su Qingnuan, stopping at 1205.

    Taking out a key, Aqi opened the door.

 Chapter 146 Reward

    <h4>Chapter 146: Chapter 146 Reward</h4>

    Compared to the extravagant and grandiose decor in the hallway, the room was much more understated and elegant.

    The walls were adorned with little daisies, the floor was a neat cream-white color, fresh and natural.

    After pushing Fu Yihan into the seat at the head of the table, A Qi turned around and left the room.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan, hesitating as she stood in ce.

    "Not sitting down?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and looked at her.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly and tentatively pulled out the chair in front of her.

    His brows immediately furrowed.

    Su Qingnuan quickly let go of the chair and moved to sit by Fu Yihan¡¯s side.

    His brows rxed.

    Su Qingnuan sighed in relief.

    "Where are the staff?" Su Qingnuan asked with confusion, "How do we order food?"

    Just as her words fell, there was a knock on the door.

    A waiter in a suit walked in, holding a thick menu in his hands.

    "The ordering staff is here," Fu Yihan said.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheeks flushed slightly as she took the menu handed to her by the waiter.

    The thick menu was like a book, and as Su Qingnuan nced over it, she found herself overwhelmed.

    Being a new and innovative restaurant, "Huaxiang" naturally offered many unique dishes. However, Su Qingnuan had never tried them before and didn¡¯t know where to start.

    Flipping through the menu, Su Qingnuan inadvertently looked toward Fu Yihan.

    Noticing her movement, Fu Yihan, his face cold, took the menu from her hands.

    "What do you want to eat?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "Mr. Fu, you can decide; I¡¯m not picky."

    Indeed, she wasn¡¯t picky. If she didn¡¯t like something, she¡¯d eat less of it, and if she liked something, she¡¯d eat more.

    After giving her a nce, Fu Yihan turned to the waiter and started reporting the dish names without lifting his head: "Steamed spareribs with glutinous rice, sweet and sour...."

    He continued listing dishes to himself while the waiter beside him smiled quietly, making no move to jot anything down.

    "Remember everything now?" Fu Yihan asked as he closed the menu.

    The waiter nodded, took the menu, and in Su Qingnuan¡¯s surprised gaze, recited the dish names back to them.

    "Yes, that¡¯s everything."

    The waiter left with the menu in hand.

    Watching his confident silhouette disappear, Su Qingnuan remarked, "Are all the waiters here so skilled?"

    "Of course," Fu Yihan nced at her, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. "What, did you think everyone was like you? Can¡¯t even order food properly."

    "... When I go out to eat, I don¡¯t often get the chance to order."

    When dining with the Su family, it was naturally the matriarch of the Su family who decided the menu. With friends, it was always the others picking the dishes. Su Qingnuan rarely had the chance to order.

    However, to Fu Yihan¡¯s ears, her exnation turned into something entirely different.

    "So, letting you order food was putting you in a difficult position?"

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head, her anxious tone rising: "Of course not! I¡¯m just not very good at it...."

    Fu Yihan snorted coldly and shifted his gaze away.

    Su Qingnuan watched him cautiously, unsure whether he was genuinely upset.

    Just as she was about to try testing the waters, Fu Yihan turned back to her.

    "Practice more, and from now on, you¡¯ll be the one ordering when we go out."

    "... Alright."

    Ordering food shouldn¡¯t be that hard... right?

    Su Qingnuan thought to herself.

    The dishes at "Huaxiang" arrived quickly. Within a few exchanges, the waiter was already wheeling in the food.

    While eating, both of them focused on their meals without speaking.

    Only after finishing did Su Qingnuan finally put down her chopsticks.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yihan had already finished eating long ago.

    Noticing the empty tes in front of him, Su Qingnuan frowned. "Mr. Fu, you should eat more."

    Fu Yihan shook his head. "I can¡¯t eat any more."

    She knew Fu Yihan ate little due to his health issues.

    She used to think it was an exaggeration, but after dining alone with him several times, Su Qingnuan realized that the amount of food he consumed was far less than that of an average man.

    ncing briefly at his legs, Su Qingnuan¡¯s brows furrowed further. "When your bones recover, you¡¯ll need to do rehabilitation. That will require quite a bit of energy. Eating more is better for your health too."

    Fu Yihan froze momentarily, turning to look at Su Qingnuan.

    She was gazing at his legs with concern, her expression genuinely sincere.

    After hesitating briefly, Fu Yihan picked up his chopsticks again.

    "I¡¯ll eat some more."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan¡¯s face lit up in joy as she enthusiastically pushed her favorite dish¡ªglutinous rice spareribs¡ªtoward him. "These are delicious."

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s enthusiastic rmendation, Fu Yihan ate two more spareribs and drank some soup before stopping.

    After finishing the meal, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair toward the door.

    Not finding A Qi outside, she asked in confusion, "Where¡¯s A Qi?"

    "He went to eat," Fu Yihan gestured toward the end of the hallway. "Let¡¯s head down first."

    "But we don¡¯t have a card, right?" Su Qingnuan asked, mildly puzzled.

    "They use fingerprint scanning."

    "... Okay."

    These days, VIP restaurants were getting so high-tech that Su Qingnuan felt a bit out of ce.

    They went downstairs, where the parking garage was eerily quiet.

    "Call A Qi," Fu Yihan instructed.

    Su Qingnuan nodded.

    Just as the call connected, Su Qingnuan heard a phone ringtone.

    Curious, she turned to look in the direction of the sound. What she saw was not a familiar face.

    "Hello," the person answered the call, their crisp voice ringing clearly in the quiet garage.

    Su Qingnuan quickly moved over to Fu Yihan, hesitating as she pointed toward that direction.

    Fu Yihan frowned and followed her gaze.

    Near a red sports car, Su Yuerou stood holding a phone, cheerfully walking toward the elevator.

    "Guess who she¡¯s talking to?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Fu Yihan shot her a nce and suddenly asked, "Can you drive?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan nodded, lowering her voice. "I have a license."

    Fu Yihan looked down and, without warning, took out a set of keys and tossed them to Su Qingnuan.

    "Let¡¯s go; we¡¯ll drive ourselves back."

    "... Not waiting for A Qi?"

    "No, let him handle other things." Fu Yihan turned away, expressionless.

    Su Qingnuan quickly opened the car door and helped Fu Yihan into the car.

    After ensuring he was seated securely, Su Qingnuan got into the driver¡¯s seat.

    Gripping the familiar yet unfamiliar steering wheel, Su Qingnuan took a deep breath.

    "Mr. Fu," she turned back to look at Fu Yihan, smiling lightly. "I might be a little slow at first, so bear with me."

    "Alright."

    A few minutester...

    Fu Yihan gritted his teeth, staring at the "Huaxiang" restaurant sign barely a hundred meters behind them. His brows furrowed tightly. "Do you actually know how to drive?"

    "I do!" Su Qingnuan immediately nodded earnestly, her expression serious as she looked ahead. "But it¡¯s been a while, and I need some time to recall everything."

    "..." Fu Yihan suddenly had an impulse to get out of the car.

    Once the car finally merged onto the highway, its speed steadily increased.

    Su Qingnuan focused entirely on the road ahead,pletely unaware that the person behind her was quietly watching her.

    Suddenly, the car jolted, and Fu Yihan¡¯s body lurched forward, mming into the chair back.

    He propped himself up, his teeth clenched tightly.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan¡¯s voice trembled slightly. "Are you alright?"

    Struggling to sit upright again, Fu Yihan heard her question and gritted his teeth audibly: "What do you think?"

    "... I¡¯ll be extra careful!"

 Chapter 147 Inquiry

    <h4>Chapter 147: Chapter 147 Inquiry</h4>

    "..."

    The car, crawling along at a tortoise-like speed, slowly wobbled its way back to the Fu family estate.

    Seeing the care to a halt, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but open the car door himself.

    Noticing this, Su Qingnuan quickly got out of the car and took out the wheelchair and crutches.

    ring at the overly eager person, Fu Yihan gritted his teeth and swore, "Don¡¯t touch the car ever again!"

    God knows how he survived the past hour ¡ª every time they approached a traffic light, his heart would leap into his throat, terrified she¡¯d start the car and ram straight into someone¡¯s rear bumper.

    And then there were all the vehicles weaving past them; none were fancier than his car, but every single one managed to zip ahead. The humiliation was killing him.

    Seeing his stern expression, Su Qingnuan slightly bowed her head.

    The corners of her mouth tilted downward, and the joy in her eyes vanished, leaving no trace of her previous cheerfulness.

    Her demeanor made it seem as if Fu Yihan had bullied her.

    "What¡¯s that supposed to mean?" Fu Yihan raised a brow, "Not happy about it?"

    "Not at all!" Su Qingnuan hurriedly said, "I know my skills are bad."

    "As long as you understand," Fu Yihan said as he sat down, sighing in relief, "Push me inside."

    Su Qingnuan quickly exerted herself, pushing Fu Yihan inside.

    Because of the dys on the road, they arrived home at eleven p.m.

    The living room was pitch dark, with no light.

    Su Qingnuan stopped Fu Yihan at the entryway, ran inside to turn on the lights, and hurried back to push him further in.

    The elevator stopped on the second floor. As they exited, they noticed someone standing by the elevator door.

    "Fu Yixing." Fu Yihan frowned, sizing up the person in front of the elevator, "What are you doing? Trying to act like a ghost?"

    Fu Yixing sneered, ncing at Fu Yihan with a lightugh, "Brother, I¡¯ve been waiting for you a long time."

    "Waiting for me? For what?" Fu Yihan asked coldly, indifferent.

    Fu Yixing chuckled with a meaningful look, "The ITpany you coborated with earlier¡ªits system isn¡¯t working now. Ourpany ns to switch to a new one."

    Su Qingnuan paused mid-step and turned to look at Fu Yixing.

    Fu Yixing raised an eyebrow, looking smugly at her, "Oh, right, sis-inw¡ªyou¡¯re still interning at thatpany, aren¡¯t you? Why not just intern at ourpany? At least we could guarantee you a proper internship experience, right?"

    Frowning slightly, Su Qingnuan said seriously, "Second Young Master, yourpany¡¯s system problem could be the result of a hacker attack, which probably doesn¡¯t have much to do with our system itself."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression shifted instantly, sneering, "What do you know? Even your senior manager can¡¯t exin it clearly¡ªwhat gives you the right to call it a hacker attack?"

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows.

    She had merely debugged for half an hour, indeed unable to confirm with 100% certainty that it was a hacker attack¡ªbut she was about 80% sure.

    "If youck the ability, don¡¯t spout nonsense," Fu Yixing sneered. "Otherwise, people might think yourpany is running a scam."

    "..." Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, wondering what retort she could muster against this smug person.

    "What¡¯s going on here?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice suddenly interjected, cutting off their exchange.

    He sat there with an impatient expression, his furrowed brows fixed on Su Qingnuan.

    She quickly withdrew her gaze and lowered her head, pushing Fu Yihan forward.

    "Wait!" Fu Yixing stepped in front of them, his gaze falling on Fu Yihan. "Brother, don¡¯t you have anything to say about this?"

    Fu Yihan shot him a frosty nce and said dismissively with a faint smile, "Thatpany is under your management now. Do whatever you like¡ªit has nothing to do with me."

    His attitude was so aloof that one might mistake him for talking about a stranger¡¯spany.

    Yet, thepany in question had been personally entrusted to him by their father earlier.

    Fu Yixing straightened up with a grin and couldn¡¯t resist apuding, "Good! Brother, I love your attitude."

    Smiling cheekily, he stepped aside and gave way, "Don¡¯t worry¡ªI¡¯ll make sure thepany I manage is run better than the one you did."

    Fu Yihan snorted coldly, then turned to Su Qingnuan.

    Understanding his cue, Su Qingnuan pushed him back to his room.

    Once back in the room, Su Qingnuan studied his expression and hesitated before asking cautiously, "Mr. Fu, are you not angry?"

    "Angry?" Fu Yihan replied dismissively, "Jumping clowns are not worth my anger."

    "....."

    It seemed she had underestimated his perspective.

    Judging by Fu Yihan¡¯sposed demeanor, he probably already had a n in mind.

    Putting away her small worries, Su Qingnuan stood up.

    "Alright then, Mr. Fu¡ªI¡¯ll be leaving now."

    "Wait!"

    Fu Yihan frowned, looking seriously at Su Qingnuan, who had already reached the door. "I need to bathe."

    "What?" Su Qingnuan widened her eyes in shock, staring at Fu Yihan.

    He raised an eyebrow, "Didn¡¯t you hear me? I said I need to bathe."

    How did he used to bathe, anyway?

    Su Qingnuan searched her mind for answers but found none¡ªshe had never helped anyone bathe before.

    Could he be implying...

    "What are you thinking?" Fu Yihan frowned, impatiently saying, "Come over here and help me take off my pants."

    Take off his pants.....

    No matter how Su Qingnuan thought about it, this sentence seemed loaded with other meanings.

    Weren¡¯t they in a contract marriage? That was clearly agreed upon at the start. Could it be that Fu Yihan was regretting it? Or maybe...

    Seeing her stand there frozen in ce, Fu Yihan raised a brow, "Why are you spacing out?"

    Su Qingnuan snapped back to reality and cautiously took a step back, saying, "Mr. Fu, we¡¯re in a contract marriage. Actions that are overly intimate, I think, should still be..."

    "What are you imagining?" Fu Yihan¡¯s face darkened, his brow knitting tighter, "I can¡¯t take off my pants on my own¡ªif you don¡¯t help me, how am I supposed to bathe?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan finally understood, mumbling hesitantly, "Just... to take off your pants?"

    "What else do you think?"

    "..."

    Her cheeks flushed slightly as she lowered her head and stepped closer to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan unbuckled his belt and slid his pants down to his thighs, leaving Su Qingnuan to pull them offpletely.

    Throughout the process, Su Qingnuan¡¯s hands never touched a single inch of his skin.

    As expected... she had overthought it.

    Fu Yihan was still wearing another pair of pants underneath¡ªthere wasn¡¯t even the slightest risk of anything being exposed.

    "What are you looking at?"

    His icy tone sounded close to her ear.

    Su Qingnuan quickly averted her gaze, shaking her head, "Nothing... nothing at all."

    Fu Yihan gave her a cold look, "Alright, leave now."

    "Okay."

    Su Qingnuan jogged out of the bedroom, closing the door behind her.

    With the door shut, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help covering her face, overwhelmed with embarrassment.

    Why did her thoughts wander down those paths? It was just too...

    Her cheeks grew warmer, turning an even deeper shade of red.

    She hurried back to her room and buried her head under the covers.

    The earlier scene reyed incessantly in her mind¡ªFu Yihan¡¯s cold and helpless expression only reinforced her ridiculous assumptions.

    Truly, she felt like she couldn¡¯t show her face...

    After tossing and turning in her room for a while, she suddenly heard the sound of a door opening outside.

    Su Qingnuan quickly opened her door and peeked out.

    A Qi was cautiously stepping inside. Noticing the movement, he turned his head toward her.

    "Young Mistress, you¡¯re still awake?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan leaned against the doorframe and asked quietly, "Where did you go? Why are you getting back sote?"

 Chapter 148: Su Yuerouéˆ¥æªš Trump Card

    <h4>Chapter 148: Chapter 148: Su Yuerou¡¯s Trump Card</h4>

    "The Eldest Young Master instructed me to handle something," Ah Qi said respectfully.

    "I see..." Su Qingnuan nced toward the bedroom and lowered her voice, "He just went to take a bath. I don¡¯t know if he¡¯s finished yet."

    Ah Qi nodded, "I¡¯ll wait a bit."

    Just as he finished speaking, the tightly shut door suddenly swung open.

    "Bang¡ª"

    Ah Qi turned his head, only to see that the head poking out a moment ago had now vanished.

    "Eldest Young Master, Madam..." Ah Qi pointed at the door but hesitated, unable to finish his sentence.

    Fu Yihan nced at the shut door and snorted coldly, "I know. Come in."

    Ah Qi quickly walked over.

    Fu Yihan sat at the small desk, looking at the person across from him.

    "How is it?"

    "I¡¯ve found out," Ah Qi said, taking out his phone and handing it to Fu Yihan. "The people in the photo have been confirmed not to be Shen Lin¡¯an or the Second Young Master."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, examining the photo of the two affectionate people, an enigmatic smile appearing on his face.

    "Eldest Young Master, should we inform Madam about this?"

    Thinking of her puzzled face, Fu Yihan shook his head, "Not for now."

    "Understood."

    Fu Yihan ced the phone on the desk and lifted his gaze, "Alright, you¡¯ve worked hard tonight. Go rest early."

    "Yes."

    Ah Qi picked up the phone, walked to the door, and stopped again.

    He nced back at the man at the desk and asked with a puzzled expression, "Eldest Young Master, earlier Madam said you were taking a bath, so about your pants..."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze shifted slightly as he looked at Ah Qi expressionlessly.

    A faint smile appeared on Ah Qi¡¯s lips, "I understand now."

    With that, the door closed behind him as he left.

    Fu Yihan frowned deeply, his hands poised over the keyboard unable to type.

    After an indeterminate length of time, a faint chuckle broke the silence of the room, followed swiftly by the relentless ttering of the keyboard.

    ...

    At dawn, Su Qingnuan pushed open the door, looked around the empty room, and sighed in relief. Carrying her bag, she sneaked downstairs quietly.

    However, just as she stepped out of the room, the door on her right suddenly opened.

    Watching the door still swaying slightly, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved into a subtle smile.

    "Ah Qi," Fu Yihan called out.

    A man emerged from behind him, standing respectfully in front of him.

    "Escort Madam to thepany."

    "Yes."

    As Ah Qi departed, Fu Yihan finally shut the door and went back to bed.

    Unbeknownst to him, Su Qingnuan had already slipped out of the vi, only to find Ah Qi standing at the entrance when she raised her eyes.

    "...Ah Qi," Su Qingnuan forced a sheepish smile, "What are you doing here?"

    Ah Qi looked at her impassively, "The Eldest Young Master asked me to escort you to thepany."

    "What?" Su Qingnuan froze, "Is Mr. Fu awake?"

    "Awake."

    So he had seen her sneaky behavior earlier?

    Covering her forehead, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt too embarrassed to face anyone.

    "Madam?" Ah Qi opened the car door and, seeing her standing still, asked in confusion, "Are we leaving?"

    "Let¡¯s go!" Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth.

    She¡¯d already embarrassed herself¡ªwhat more could it matter?

    With that, she climbed into the car.

    After shutting the car door, Ah Qi took the driver¡¯s seat.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but look back at the vi¡¯s wide-open door, "Is Mr. Fu not heading to thepany today?"

    "Mr. Fu is resting today."

    "Oh..."

    As expected of the boss¡ªhe could choose his vacation days at will.

    Without Fu Yihan around, Su Qingnuan felt considerably more rxed.

    Arriving at thepany, Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t even reached the elevator when she spotted Gu Xiaoxiao hesitating at the entrance.

    "Xiaoxiao!" Su Qingnuan tapped her shoulder.

    Gu Xiaoxiao whirled around, her eyes betraying a hint of surprise and fear before she could hide it.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Su Qingnuan frowned, puzzled by her reaction.

    Gu Xiaoxiao forced a smile and looked Su Qingnuan up and down. "Why are you at work today? Didn¡¯t I tell you to rest properly at home?"

    "I can¡¯t sit still," Su Qingnuan replied with a faint smile, "You know how I am. I¡¯m used to this illness¡ªno need to make a big deal out of it."

    For her, visiting the hospital was almost like going home.

    Gu Xiaoxiao furrowed her brows, "Even so, you can¡¯t ignore it. What did the doctor say? Did Mr. Fu agree to youing back?"

    "Of course," Su Qingnuan straightened her back and smiled, "He even sent someone to escort me here."

    Seeing her proud demeanor, Gu Xiaoxiao smiled helplessly, but then seemed to recall something, her smile fading.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression became serious as she asked, "Where¡¯s the lively and cheerful Gu Xiaoxiao who usually loves going to work?"

    "It¡¯s nothing..." Gu Xiaoxiao quickly smiled, reaching out to link arms with Su Qingnuan. "Let¡¯s go inside."

    "Really nothing?" Su Qingnuan asked suspiciously.

    Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled lightly, "Oh,e on, I¡¯m fine!"

    Seeing her unwillingness to talk, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t push further. The two walked inside together.

    Taking the elevator, Su Qingnuan noticed that the usually crowded cabin was eerily empty today.

    Not only that, but those around them kept their distance, their gazes showing disdain.

    What was going on?

    Su Qingnuan frowned in confusion until the elevator stopped, and Gu Xiaoxiao led her out.

    "Was I imagining it? Why did it feel like the people in the elevator were hostile toward us?" Su Qingnuan asked quietly.

    Gu Xiaoxiao gave an awkward smile and shook her head, "It must be your imagination¡ªI didn¡¯t notice anything."

    Really didn¡¯t notice?

    Su Qingnuan stared at her, her gaze scorching.

    After a long pause, unable to withstand Su Qingnuan¡¯s intense stare, Gu Xiaoxiao sighed in defeat, "Let¡¯s clock in first. I¡¯ll tell you shortly."

    "Alright."

    After clocking in and finishing up their tasks, Su Qingnuan eagerly headed to the break room.

    She happened to encounter a womaning out with a cup of coffee. Su Qingnuan stepped aside.

    The woman shifted as well, and Su Qingnuan looked up, meeting her confrontational gaze. She froze briefly.

    "Isn¡¯t this Miss Su? Why aren¡¯t you resting at home but running back to work?"

    That sarcastic tone...

    Suppressing her difort, Su Qingnuan smiled faintly, "I¡¯ve had enough rest. It¡¯s time to return to work."

    "Ha!" The woman sneered, "Please! If you faint at thepany again, we can¡¯t take responsibility for that."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan remembered this woman¡ªshe was the senior manager¡¯s assistant. They rarely interacted, so why was she picking a fight today?

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and moved aside again, keeping her smile, "The senior manager should be arriving soon, shouldn¡¯t you be busy?"

    Hearing the term "senior manager," the woman¡¯s expression darkened. She red at Su Qingnuan fiercely before leaving with her coffee.

    "...Ridiculous."

    Su Qingnuan muttered to herself as she entered the break room.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was facing away from her, grinding coffee beans.

 Chapter 149: Amended - 149 Loss

    <h4>Chapter 149: Amended: Chapter 149 Loss</h4>

    Gu Xiaoxiao turned around, saw the person approaching, and chuckled bitterly: "Want some coffee?"

    "Xiaoxiao?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile vanished as she looked at Gu Xiaoxiao seriously. "What are you thinking about?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze for a second, then realized¡ªSu Qingnuan couldn¡¯t have coffee.

    She rarely made such mistakes unless she had something weighing on her mind.

    Facing Su Qingnuan¡¯s questioning gaze, Gu Xiaoxiao nervously shifted her eyes away and murmured: "Actually, it¡¯s nothing... just..."

    "Just what?" Su Qingnuan frowned. "Is there something the two of us can¡¯t talk about?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao sighed lightly and said helplessly: "Alright, you¡¯ll find out sooner orter anyway."

    She raised her head, looked at Su Qingnuan earnestly, and said solemnly: "The Fu family has terminated their contract with ourpany. The whole office is buzzing about it, iming the three of us caused this loss. Manager Gao has already requested leave; everyone¡¯s saying he¡¯s looking for another job and running away."

    "...Us causing it?" Su Qingnuan responded with amusement: "You believe that?"

    "The facts are right there. I don¡¯t have much choice but to believe it..." Gu Xiaoxiao said bitterly. "Who knows when Manager Huang might call us for a chat and fire us."

    Fire us?

    Su Qingnuan thought back to Fu Yihan¡¯s attitude yesterday; it didn¡¯t seem like he was ming her.

    "Don¡¯t worry," Su Qingnuan reassured Gu Xiaoxiao by patting her shoulder, smiling gently. "No one¡¯s going to fire us; just focus on doing your job."

    Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her in surprise and asked doubtfully: "You¡¯re that sure?"

    "Well... not entirely sure," Su Qingnuan said with a smile. "This whole thing isn¡¯t our fault to begin with. We finished what we were tasked with; as for the rest, it¡¯s up to the higher-ups to decide."

    "True," Gu Xiaoxiao sighed in relief and said humorously, "If we get fired, then so be it. Overthinking it doesn¡¯t solve anything."

    "Exactly," Su Qingnuan patted her shoulder again. "Let¡¯s go¡ªno need to overthink."

    "Mm."

    The two left the break room. Following Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s earlier words, Su Qingnuan noticed that many people were watching them.

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow slightly, leaned toward Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s ear, and whispered: "Weren¡¯t you alwaysforting me, saying not to listen or look?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao smiled and said: "Okay."

    The two returned to their workstations, and Su Qingnuan picked up the unfinished work from before, ready to continue.

    "Ring¡ª"

    The phone on the desk rang, and Su Qingnuan picked it up.

    "Hello, this is the Tech Department."

    "Su Qingnuan?"

    A heavy voice came through the receiver. Su Qingnuan nced at the caller ID in confusion: "I am. May I ask who¡¯s calling?"

    "Ha!"

    A coldugh, chilling like something crawling out from the depths of the earth.

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows slightly. Just as she was about to speak, the person on the other end interrupted.

    "Come to the boss¡¯s office."

    From that voice, Su Qingnuan could tell¡ªit was Manager Huang.

    After hanging up the call, Su Qingnuan quickly stood up and headed to the elevator.

    Seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao approached with her belongings and whispered: "What¡¯s going on?"

    "Manager Huang wants to see me. I¡¯ll head up first."

    "...Call me if anything happens."

    Noticing the concern in Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes, Su Qingnuan smiled softly and said: "Alright."

    Entering the elevator, Su Qingnuan took out her phone, hesitating for a while before finally dialing A-Qi¡¯s number.

    The call was quickly connected.

    "Young Madam?"

    "A-Qi," Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth and asked softly, "Is Mr. Fu still at home?"

    There was a pause on the other side before a response came: "Yes."

    "Alright, thanks."

    After speaking, she hung up.

    A-Qi stared at the now ck screen in frustration, then looked toward Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow: "What did she say?"

    "Just asked if you were home."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved slightly, a hint of amusement reaching his eyes: "Asking about me? Shouldn¡¯t she focus on her work?"

    A-Qi shook his head. "No idea."

    For some reason, looking at his neutral expression, Fu Yihan suddenly found it much more pleasing.

    "Let¡¯s go. To thepany."

    A-Qi hesitated: "Right now? You still have a video meeting this afternoon..."

    "I can do that from thepany. Doesn¡¯t matter."

    Seeing the determination on Fu Yihan¡¯s face, A-Qi didn¡¯t attempt to dissuade him further.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan walked confidently into Manager Huang¡¯s office.

    The person seated behind the desk exuded a chilly aura, clearly fuming.

    Swallowing hard, Su Qingnuan approached.

    "Manager Huang."

    Manager Huang lifted his gaze, scrutinizing the upright figure standing before him, his brows tightly knitted.

    "Su Qingnuan, you¡¯ve heard about what happened the other day, haven¡¯t you?"

    Su Qingnuan paused momentarily and replied: "I fainted that day. I just came back to the office today, so I haven¡¯t¡ª"

    "Haven¡¯t?" Manager Huang sneered. "Because of you all, thepany suffered heavy losses, forfeited a major contract. Do you understand?"

    "...I understand."

    Considering the Fu family¡¯s scale, it undoubtedly involved a huge deal. However, Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t expected the Fu family to be the ones initiating the termination¡ªespecially since Fu Yihan had mentioned ending the coboration just yesterday.

    "As long as you understand." Manager Huang withdrew his gaze and said coldly: "This mistake will be noted under your names¡ªone warning. I¡¯ve already informed Manager Gao. You and Gu Xiaoxiao, tread carefully."

    "...Understood."

    Holding her penalty slip in hand, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt confused.

    Not even a month into this job, and she was already in debt...

    She still had some money saved up, but how would Xiaoxiao manage?

    Ah...

    Su Qingnuan tucked the slip away, dejectedly heading downstairs.

    When she returned, various gazes turned her way¡ªcurious ones, gloating ones, and those eager for drama.

    Ignoring them all, Su Qingnuan returned to her desk.

    Soon after, Gu Xiaoxiao came over.

    "How did it go? What did they say?"

    "..."

    Carefully, Su Qingnuan took out the slip and handed it to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    "They won¡¯t let us go, but..."

    Looking at the penalty amount written on the slip, Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly fell silent.

    After a long pause, she wailed: "Might as well have just fired me!"

    One thousand dors each.

    For Su Qingnuan, the amount wasn¡¯t much, but for Gu Xiaoxiao, it was a serious issue.

    "Don¡¯t panic. I haven¡¯t paid mine yet," Su Qingnuan consoled her. "This incident really isn¡¯t fair to us."

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes turned red: "It¡¯s not even our fault! That damned Second Master¡ªhe has to make things difficult for us! Not only did he make you faint, but he also set us up!"

    "Shh!" Su Qingnuan grabbed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand and whispered: "Quiet down. Someone might overhear."

    Gu Xiaoxiao paused, even stifling her sobbing.

    Staring at the penalty slip, Su Qingnuan frowned: "Let¡¯s take advantage of the lunch breakter and go talk to Manager Huang."

    "Will that work?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked anxiously.

    Su Qingnuan gave her a wry smile: "Didn¡¯t you just say you¡¯d rather leave than pay this?"

 Chapter 150: The Most Beloved

    <h4>Chapter 150: Chapter 150: The Most Beloved</h4>

    "...Actually, it¡¯s not that exaggerated." Gu Xiaoxiao sniffled and sighed, "I just can¡¯t ept it for the time being."

    "I can¡¯t ept it either." Putting away the paper, Su Qingnuan straightened up, "Alright, you go handle your work first. We¡¯ll head upstairs after lunch."

    "Okay."

    The two split up and got busy with their tasks.

    When lunchtime came, after hurriedly finishing their meal, Su Qingnuan took Gu Xiaoxiao to the office.

    Before they came, Su Qingnuan had checked and confirmed that Manager Huang was still in the office.

    Looking at the closed door of the office, Su Qingnuan turned to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    "You wait outside for me."

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head, "No way, if we¡¯re going in, we go in together."

    "What do you think I¡¯m going to do?" Su Qingnuan chuckled, "I¡¯m not there to argue. If things can¡¯t be settled, at worst we just pay the penalty. I¡¯ll cover your part for you."

    "No way!" Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head firmly, "This is an issue concerning both of us. I can¡¯t let you shoulder it alone."

    Seeing her determined expression, Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly, "I¡¯m not going to fight, don¡¯t you get it? If I go in alone, there¡¯s room for negotiation. If you follow me in, Manager Huang might think we¡¯re jointly trying to pressure her. Understand?"

    "...Is that so?" Gu Xiaoxiao stared at Su Qingnuan nkly.

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan held her hand cautiously, "That¡¯s why you¡¯ll stay here and wait for me toe out."

    After a moment of silence, Gu Xiaoxiao finally let go.

    "Alright, I¡¯ll wait for you."

    "Okay."

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan grabbed the penalty notice and knocked on the door.

    There was a brief silence inside the room before a voice eventually came through.

    "Come in."

    Su Qingnuan quietly opened the door and walked in.

    Upon seeing the situation inside the office, Su Qingnuan froze.

    Fu Yihan was sitting leisurely on the sofa, drinking tea, while Manager Huang was seated beside him, wearing a fawning smile.

    "Su Qingnuan?" Manager Huang nced at the person beside her, unconsciously softening her tone, "Why aren¡¯t you having lunch? What brings you here?"

    Clutching the penalty notice tightly in her hand, Su Qingnuan hesitated before speaking, "Manager Huang, I have some questions regarding the decision you made this morning."

    "Oh, that..." Manager Huang blinked and chuckled, "It¡¯s been invalidated."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan widened her eyes in shock, dumbfounded.

    Manager Huangughed lightly, "It¡¯s invalidated, don¡¯t worry about it. As for the notice, just toss it if you want."

    "...It¡¯s canceled?" Su Qingnuan asked in disbelief.

    "Yes, canceled." Manager Huang looked at Fu Yihan with a faint smile, "It¡¯s Fu¡¯s decision. Young people like you tend to face challenges; there¡¯s no need to make things so hard on you."

    Fu Yihan?

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze fell on Fu Yihan, who was drinking tea at a leisurely pace as if she didn¡¯t exist.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan quickly turned and bowed to him, "Thank you, sir."

    "Hmm."

    Fu Yihan calmly set down his teacup, his casual gaze finallynding on her, "Have you had lunch yet?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded hastily.

    His brows furrowed slightly as he looked at her disapprovingly, "I haven¡¯t eaten yet."

    "...."

    "Mr. Fu! I¡¯ve already ordered food; it¡¯ll be delivered shortly." Manager Huang quickly stood up, smiling, "You two chat, I won¡¯t interrupt."

    Saying that, she had already moved to the door and was nearly out.

    "Wait!"

    Manager Huang turned back with a smiling face, "Mr. Fu, is there anything else you need?"

    "Take that little one outside down with you," Fu Yihan replied.

    Su Qingnuan blinked in surprise and turned her head.

    Through the crack in the door, she could see Gu Xiaoxiao peeking inside curiously.

    "Got it!"

    As the door closed, Gu Xiaoxiao disappeared from sight.

    "What are you still looking at?" A chilling tone broke the silence, and Fu Yihan red at her, "Come here."

    "...Okay."

    Su Qingnuan walked over and sat down uneasily.

    Her entire body was tense, sitting rigidly upright.

    "Hmph!" A scoffing sound came from his nose as Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, "Were you really nning to pay the fine?"

    "No..." Su Qingnuan gripped the penalty notice tightly, "I just thought the fine seemed excessive and wanted to discuss reducing it with Manager Huang."

    "Excessive fine?" Fu Yihan sneered, "Ever considered that you shouldn¡¯t have been fined at all?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, "I understand where Manager Huang¡¯sing from. While this wasn¡¯t entirely our fault, thepany did lose a major deal. If we don¡¯t get penalized, others within thepany might follow suit in the future. That¡¯d make managing things difficult."

    After silently watching her for a long moment, Fu Yihan smirked mockingly, "You¡¯ve got a knack for giving them excuses."

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly, "It¡¯s not about making excuses. It¡¯s just that when you remove personal feelings, this approach seems most reasonable and fair."

    "So, you¡¯re saying you me me for meddling?" Fu Yihan teased, raising an eyebrow.

    "No!" Su Qingnuan eximed in panic, "Mr. Fu, I didn¡¯t mean that!"

    Her sudden flustered demeanor amused Fu Yihan immensely.

    "Alright, so you didn¡¯t mean that."

    "...Huh?" Su Qingnuan stared nkly at him, feeling utterly confused. Was he deliberately baiting her with his earlierments?

    Seeing her dazed expression, Fu Yihan tapped the sofa and said, "Go pour me some water."

    "Huh? Oh... Okay."

    Su Qingnuan got up.

    Manager Huang¡¯s office had its own water dispenser. Keeping her head down, Su Qingnuan poured a cup of warm water.

    When she handed the cup back, Fu Yihan took it and sipped casually, his gaze flickering.

    Su Qingnuan fidgeted with the hem of her shirt nervously, looking as though she wanted to say something but couldn¡¯t find the words.

    The atmosphere turned awkward. Su Qingnuan opened her mouth but couldn¡¯t manage to utter anything.

    Just then, there was a knock on the door.

    Su Qingnuan quickly went over to answer it.

    "Hello, your food delivery."

    Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t ordered food, but looking back at the figure sitting calmly inside, she epted the delivery and walked back.

    "Mr. Fu, your food has arrived."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s indifferent gaze swept across the bag in her hand, and his brows furrowed.

    Noticing his reaction, Su Qingnuan swiftly tore the bag open and began unpacking the food inside.

    Although it was wrapped in a delivery bag, the exquisite packaging indicated this was no ordinary food order.

    Most likely, Manager Huang had called some fancy restaurant to have it delivered specifically.

    "I don¡¯t eat carrots," Fu Yihan abruptly said.

    Su Qingnuan paused and stared at the dish of braised carrots and meat, momentarily not knowing what to do.

    "Then... should we skip this dish?" Su Qingnuan asked tentatively.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and looked at her with a meaningful expression.

    Su Qingnuan froze, her eyes darting between him and the dish. After a long moment, she said, "I¡¯ll pick the carrots out."

    "Mm."

    Leaning back into the sofafortably, he closed his eyes and waited patiently.

    "...."

    He eats everything at home, doesn¡¯t he? Why is he suddenly picky now?

 Chapter 151 Picky People

    <h4>Chapter 151: Chapter 151 Picky People</h4>

    Su Qingnuan silently picked out the carrots, without asking why.

    Fu Yihan quietly watched her. When she was picking out the carrots, her brows furrowed, as if she felt sorry for the food, or perhaps found it troublesome.

    That conflicted expression, for some reason, entered Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes and brought him a strange sense offort.

    After a while, Su Qingnuan put down her chopsticks and smiled faintly. "Done."

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan straightened his posture, casually retracting his gaze. "Let¡¯s eat."

    The food on the table clearly wasn¡¯t a portion for one person. Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment as she watched Fu Yihan eat with his usual calm demeanor, then finally picked up her chopsticks.

    Better to swallow her words and take the initiative, rather than anger him again.

    Apparently, the result was a good one.

    Fu Yihan nced at her, a subtle smile in his eyes, but he didn¡¯t say anything critical.

    The two quietly ate. Su Qingnuan had already had lunch earlier, and after nibbling a few bites in a half-serious manner, she put down her chopsticks.

    Seeing her stop, Fu Yihan raised a brow and said, "There¡¯s still some time. Go upstairs and rest a bit before heading back to work."

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan froze, looking at Fu Yihan in confusion.

    "Don¡¯t understand?" Fu Yihan put down his chopsticks and looked at her leisurely.

    She understood him, but she couldn¡¯t quiteprehend what Fu Yihan meant by this.

    The upstairs area was Fu Yihan¡¯s private domain. Everyone who worked here knew that his space was off-limits; if you approached it carelessly, the boss would lose his temper.

    Since she interacted with him more often than others, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t think he was the type to let someone use his space for convenience. So, what was this now?

    Seeing her remain quiet, Fu Yihan put down his chopsticks. "I¡¯m talking to you. Didn¡¯t hear me?"

    "...Heard you." Su Qingnuan forced a wry smile. "Mr. Fu, the upstairs is your personal area. It wouldn¡¯t be proper for me to rest there, would it?"

    "What¡¯s improper about it?" Fu Yihan dismissed her concerns, the smile in his eyes gradually fading. "What, do you dislike where I rest?"

    "Not at all!" Su Qingnuan quickly stood up. "Since Mr. Fu doesn¡¯t mind, then I¡¯ll go ahead and take the liberty."

    With that, she turned and walked out.

    "Wait a minute!"

    Regretting it now? She knew it...

    Su Qingnuan turned back, looking at Fu Yihan with a glimmer of expectation.

    He raised a brow, his expression amused with a hint of mischief. "What now? nning to leave me behind here?"

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s face twisted oddly.

    "Help push me upstairs."

    "..."

    He¡¯s going upstairs too?

    Confused, Su Qingnuan tilted her head but walked over and began pushing Fu Yihan out of the office.

    The hallway outside Manager Huang¡¯s office was empty now. The two entered Fu Yihan¡¯s private elevator and directly headed to the top floor.

    Lying in the top-floor lounge, Su Qingnuan still felt a bit unsettled.

    So, is she now epting Fu Yihan¡¯s goodwill?

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly.

    What exactly is this man thinking?

    After mulling it over for a while, Su Qingnuan decided that instead of overthinking, she might as well truly rest since she¡¯d be lying there for some time. She resolutely closed her eyes.

    The lounge was quiet, and Su Qingnuan¡¯s breathing gradually leveled out.

    "Rumble, rumble¡ª"

    The sound of wheels rolling suddenly echoed, not disturbing the slumbering person.

    Fu Yihan appeared in the lounge, his gazending on her sleeping figure.

    When Su Qingnuan slept, she always curled her body on her side.

    And always toward the direction of her heart.

    Seeing this, Fu Yihan furrowed his brows slightly and reached out to adjust her posture so shey t.

    As soon as he touched her, though, her brows furrowed, and she let out a soft, unconscious hum.

    With a raised brow, Fu Yihan¡¯s grip tightened.

    The sleeping person sensed the external force and suddenly grasped Fu Yihan¡¯s hand tightly.

    Her palm, soft and warm, pressed against him like a bundle of cotton.

    The corners of Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved slightly as he applied more force to press her back into a t position.

    Though her posture was finally adjusted, Fu Yihan¡¯s hand found itself trapped under threat.

    He tried to pull it away, but her brows furrowed, her lips turned downward, and she looked like she might cry.

    Amused, Fu Yihan tried again, with simr results.

    After a while, he stopped struggling, leaning quietly against the bedside, watching her slumbering face.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s face was delicate¡ªwith small, rosy lips and brows like a painting. She was neither overly striking nor too in.

    Just right.

    Previously, Fu Yihan had only been guarded around her and had never seriously examined her appearance as he did now.

    All in all, ced among a sea of gorgeous celebrities, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t rank poorly.

    Her lips always looked pale, giving her an air of fragility.

    That fragility grew heavier when she opened her eyes and fixated them on someone.

    Fu Yihan supported his head with one hand, leaning against the bed as he quietly observed her.

    ...

    Half-conscious, Su Qingnuan felt someone fiddling with her, but her heavy eyelids wouldn¡¯t let her open her eyes.

    After an indeterminate amount of time, Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes finally opened, meeting a gaze filled withughter.

    In that instant, a moment of disorientation gripped her, and she shut her eyes again.

    "What are you doing?" The cool tone pulled Su Qingnuan back to awareness.

    She snapped her eyes open, stunned at the sight of the man before her.

    "Mr. Fu... You..."

    Surely he hadn¡¯t been watching her sleep the whole time?

    She didn¡¯t voice the rest of her question, because she suddenly realized she was holding onto something.

    The owner of that something was now gazing at her with visible amusement.

    Quickly releasing it, Su Qingnuan bowed her head apologetically. "I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Fu, I didn¡¯t mean to."

    Fu Yihan raised a brow, withdrawing his hand to flex it. "It¡¯s a bitte for that now. You¡¯re awake¡ªget up already."

    With that, he wheeled himself toward the door.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan scrambled to her feet and hurried after him.

    Noticing him still rubbing his arm, she tentatively offered, "Mr. Fu, are you okay? Should I massage it for you?"

    She couldn¡¯t believe how audacious she¡¯d been¡ªfalling asleep while clutching Fu Yihan¡¯s hand.

    His hand paused mid-motion as he fixed her with a deep, thoughtful look. "You know how?"

    "I do!"

    Su Qingnuan quickly crouched beside his wheelchair. At the moment her hand touched him, a faint tremor ran through her.

    The fear bubbling within her made her pause briefly.

    Soon, she shut her eyes and overcame it, applying gentle pressure with her fingertips.

    "It might feel a bit tingly, Mr. Fu, please bear with it."

    "Hmm," Fu Yihan replied, his gaze fixed intensely on her hands.

    Her hands were smooth and fair, their strength moderate yet precise.

    He said nothing, quietly watching her work.

    When Su Qingnuan concentrated on massaging his arm, her expression turned very serious.

    After a long while, Su Qingnuan looked up with a warm smile that fell directly into Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes.

    "Mr. Fu, how does that feel now?"

 Chapter 152: Heart Fluttered

    <h4>Chapter 152: Chapter 152: Heart Fluttered</h4>

    Feeling a subtle ripple in his heart, Fu Yihan barely curled his lips. "Just so-so."

    Seeing that he wasn¡¯t very satisfied, Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows. "Is there anywhere else that feels ufortable?"

    Raising his hand, Fu Yihan said nonchntly, "Here."

    "Alright."

    Using all her strength, Su Qingnuan massaged every pressure point she had learned, her forehead breaking into a sweat before she finally heard him speak.

    "That¡¯s enough."

    Pushing Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand away, Fu Yihan said calmly, "You still have to get back to workter. Don¡¯t exhaust yourself."

    "It¡¯s nothing," Su Qingnuan replied with a smile. "All I do at work is tap on a keyboard. It doesn¡¯t take much strength."

    Seeing her radiant smile, Fu Yihan suddenly furrowed his brows.

    "Why aren¡¯t you going back to work yet?"

    "Huh?" Seeing his expression change, Su Qingnuan, although confused, stood up as he wished. "Alright then, Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll head out now."

    "Hmm."

    Just as Su Qingnuan reached the door and her hand touched the doorknob, a voice came from behind her.

    "Wait for me after work."

    "....." Su Qingnuan turned around, looking at Fu Yihan in surprise. "Mr. Fu, are you nning to stay at thepany until the end of the day?"

    "Hmm."

    Su Qingnuan gave a slight smile. "Understood."

    She left with light steps, the door closing behind her.

    Lowering his gaze, Fu Yihan looked at his arm.

    After Su Qingnuan¡¯s massage, his arm felt a lot better. The faint redness on it subtly marked her presence.

    Her hands are so soft...

    Suddenly, Fu Yihan clenched his fist.

    That fleeting smile of Su Qingnuan¡¯s earlier had set his heart racing.

    This unfamiliar feeling left Fu Yihan uneasy. That was why his expression had abruptly darkened, sending her away in a rush.

    However, looking at her slightly dejected figure as she left, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but let out softer words.

    Covering his forehead, Fu Yihan leaned back against his chair with a sigh. "What¡¯s wrong with you..."

    "Knock-knock-knock¡ª"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression tightened as he said sternly, "Come in."

    Aqi entered without expression, lowering his head. "Eldest Young Master, the person has arrived."

    "Let them in."

    "Yes."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan sneakily made her way back to her desk, but she couldn¡¯t escape Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s watchful eyes.

    Taking advantage of the time Su Qingnuan was looking at some files, Gu Xiaoxiao leaned in, whispering, "Who were you talking to in Manager Huang¡¯s office at noon?"

    "...No one." Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "Just someone I know, chatting for a bit."

    "As if!" Gu Xiaoxiao stared at her seriously. "Anyone showing up in Manager Huang¡¯s office isn¡¯t just anybody! Spill it!"

    Su Qingnuanughed bitterly. "What¡¯s with this? It was just a client of ours, someone I happen to know, so we chatted for a bit."

    "Really?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, only half convinced.

    Su Qingnuan nodded quickly. "Of course, why would I lie to you?"

    ".....Fine."

    Gu Xiaoxiao put away her suspicious look and walked off with her files in hand.

    Watching her leave, Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief and buried herself in her work.

    By the time they got off work, Gu Xiaoxiao came running over and linked her arm with Su Qingnuan¡¯s as they headed downstairs together.

    Standing there, the two of them quickly attracted plenty of attention.

    There were whispers, and even gossiping spection.

    Hearing the lingering chatter, Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips grew paler, while Gu Xiaoxiao remainedposed as ever.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s reaction, Gu Xiaoxiao dragged her into a corner with a sigh.

    "Why bother caring about what they say?" Gu Xiaoxiao said helplessly. "Who was it just this morning telling me the innocent have nothing to fear? Besides, Manager Huang isn¡¯t even ming us anymore. Let them talk all they want."

    Su Qingnuan smiled bitterly and nodded. "You¡¯re right. I need to be more broad-minded. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t take it to heart anymore."

    "That¡¯s more like it."

    Under the spotlight of everyone¡¯s gazes, the two of them took calm, deliberate steps and left thepany.

    Outside thepany doors, Su Qingnuan immediately spotted the car parked by the roadside.

    "Hey! Aqi came to pick you up," Gu Xiaoxiao said with a smile.

    As if he was picking her up¡ªhe was simply there out of convenience.

    Gu Xiaoxiao gave Su Qingnuan a nudge andughed quietly. "Go on, hurry up. I¡¯ll take the bus myself."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked at Gu Xiaoxiao in confusion. "Let Aqi drop you off."

    "Come on! Aqi¡¯s here for you every day. I can¡¯t keep hitching a ride with him. Besides, there are plenty of buses¡ªone less rider won¡¯t make a difference," Gu Xiaoxiao teased.

    With that, Gu Xiaoxiao quickly ran off, waving back at Su Qingnuan. "See you tomorrow! Don¡¯t keep him waiting."

    Watching her figure disappear into the crowd, Su Qingnuan hesitated.

    In truth, she would dly let Aqi drive Gu Xiaoxiao home every day. The stifling atmosphere was something she didn¡¯t want to endure daily.

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan stepped forward and stopped at the car door.

    With a soft exhale to steady herself, she opened the car door and, as expected, found someone waiting in the back seat.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan greeted with a smile.

    "Hmm, get in," came the man¡¯s low reply without even looking up.

    Su Qingnuan quickly got in. But once inside, neither of them said a word.

    As the car moved forward slowly, Su Qingnuan looked out the window, lost in thought.

    Fu Yihan, who had been reading a magazine, turned his attention back to her when he noticed her gaze.

    "How was your day at thepany?"

    Su Qingnuan paused, snapping out of her thoughts and looking at him in confusion.

    Why was he suddenly interested in asking about this?

    "I asked you a question," Fu Yihan reminded her.

    Realizing this, Su Qingnuan quickly answered. "Pretty good. The seniors are all very supportive."

    "Supportive?" Fu Yihan looked at her with an ambiguous smile, his gaze teasing. "Truly supportive?"

    Lowering her head guiltily, Su Qingnuan murmured, "Truly supportive."

    "Hmm, that¡¯s good."

    Fu Yihan set aside his yful tone, but the corner of his mouth remained curved in amusement. "Since that¡¯s the case, you should work even harder to live up to Manager Huang¡¯s trust in you."

    Su Qingnuan nodded earnestly. "I understand."

    Stopping the conversation there, Fu Yihan stayed quiet.

    The car¡¯s interior grew silent again, save for the sound of pages being flipped.

    Holding her breath, Su Qingnuan turned back to look out the window.

    "Oh, by the way."

    Startled by his sudden words, Su Qingnuan turned her head quickly.

    She saw Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curve slightly, his focus on the magazine in his hands as he said meaningfully, "There¡¯s a gathering in a few days. Come with me."

    "A gathering?" Su Qingnuan said hesitantly. "Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll need to request time off¡ªwhen is it?"

    Fu Yihan shot her an annoyed nce. "I¡¯m your boss. Isn¡¯t granting you time off within my authority?"

    "..." She had nearly forgotten about that. Nodding quickly, she replied with a smile, "Alright."

    Seeing her agreement, Fu Yihan smiled contentedly and looked away, saying no more.

    Su Qingnuan blinked, then let her lips curl up involuntarily.

    Though his temperament was odd, there was something almost boyishly childish about the way he smiled. Was it just her imagination? She found herself stealing a few more nces.

    Noticing her gaze, Fu Yihan¡¯s face grew stern as he frowned. "What are you looking at?"

    "...N-nothing."

 Chapter 153: Change System

    <h4>Chapter 153: Chapter 153: Change System</h4>

    Fu Yihan shot her a re but didn¡¯t say a word.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare meet his eyes, quickly retracting her gaze and lowering her head to look at her palms.

    Her fair and delicate hands were turned over and over by Su Qingnuan as she examined them, until the car came to a stop.

    "Still looking?" Fu Yihan sneered. "Are your hands sprouting flowers?"

    "...No."

    "Still not getting out of the car?"

    "Yes."

    So it turned out, the brief moment of warmth earlier was all her imagination. Fu Yihan was still the same Fu Yihan.

    With Ah Qi¡¯s help, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair and headed inside.

    The old master was seated in the living room, his posture upright, brows knitted tightly together.

    Su Qingnuan slowed her pace, calmly gazing ahead.

    "Fu Yihan."

    The stern call¡ªit was exactly as she expected.

    Su Qingnuan came to a halt and turned to look at Fu Yihan.

    He, on the other hand, showed no change in expression and quietly stared in the old master¡¯s direction.

    "What is it?"

    His tone was indifferent and detached, unmoved.

    The old master rested his hands on his thighs, glowering at him.

    "Come here. I have something to ask you."

    Su Qingnuan quickly pushed Fu Yihan toward him. The man in the wheelchair turned back slightly, casting her a meaningful nce.

    This time, Su Qingnuanpletely ignored his gaze.

    After all, coaxing Mr. Fu was one thing, but when it came to the old master, she really didn¡¯t know how to navigate the situation.

    The two stopped in front of the old master. Su Qingnuan locked the wheelchair¡¯s brakes, released her grip, and said, "Grandfather, I¡¯ll make you some tea while you talk."

    The old master nodded in satisfaction and smiled. "Still so thoughtful, Yue Rou. Go ahead."

    Hiding in the kitchen, Su Qingnuan spotted the housekeeper cooking and smiled. "Auntie, what¡¯s for dinner tonight?"

    The housekeeper returned her smile. "Young Madame, tonight we have the braised ribs that Eldest Young Master loves, and also dishes you enjoy."

    Unable to help herself, Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curled upward as she gave a thumbs-up. "Auntie, your cooking is amazing. We¡¯re in for a treat tonight."

    The housekeeper modestly shook her head. "Oh no! As long as you like it, that¡¯s all that matters."

    After a bit of yful banter, Su Qingnuan leaned against the door, peeking out through it.

    The atmosphere outside didn¡¯t seem too solemn, so she carried the tea out confidently.

    The two men speaking halted their conversation as soon as they heard her footsteps.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips twisted into a faint, sarcastic smile. "Did you just pick those tea leaves yourself?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan thickened her skin and ignored his jab, cing the cup down. "Grandfather, please have some tea."

    The old master chuckled lightly. "Good."

    Then, Su Qingnuan set another cup in front of Fu Yihan, still smiling. "Yihan, have some tea."

    "No need for tea." Fu Yihan unlocked the wheelchair and looked at Su Qingnuan. "Push me upstairs."

    Su Qingnuan nced at the old master, and seeing he didn¡¯t object, she began pushing Fu Yihan toward the stairs.

    Once they exited the elevator, Fu Yihan suddenly asked, "Are you Grandfather¡¯s person?"

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly, then quickly shook her head. "Of course not! Mr. Fu, have you forgotten? We¡¯re on the same boat."

    "I thought you¡¯d forgotten." Fu Yihan sneered. "Then why were you so eager just now?"

    As expected... always settling scorester¡ªthat was just the kind of man he was.

    Su Qingnuan coughed lightly and lowered her voice. "Well, it¡¯s Grandfather after all. Respecting him is the least we can do... He did call you, didn¡¯t he?"

    "Hmph! At least you understand basic respect for elders."

    "..." Lowering her head guiltily, Su Qingnuan muttered, "Grandfather treats us well. I just thought saying a few words wouldn¡¯t hurt..."

    "That¡¯s what you think?" Fu Yihan pressed.

    Su Qingnuan paused and quickly said, "I was wrong."

    "Wrong about what?" Fu Yihan relentlessly pursued.

    "I shouldn¡¯t have acted on your behalf. Whether you wanted to stay or leave should have been your decision alone."

    Hearing this, Fu Yihan nodded in satisfaction. "Now, that¡¯s better. Let¡¯s go."

    Seeing he wasn¡¯t pursuing the matter any further, Su Qingnuan breathed a small sigh of relief.

    After pushing him back into the room, Su Qingnuan finally exhaled fully, ready to return to her own room, only to be stopped in her tracks.

    "Come here," Fu Yihan called from the doorway of his room, his tone stern.

    Su Qingnuan carefully approached. "Mr. Fu, what is it?"

    "Some documents¡ªhelp me handle them."

    "..."

    A CEO at home¡ªwhy was there still overtime?

    Reluctantly, Su Qingnuan trailed behind Fu Yihan into his room, taking the files he handed her. She hesitated. "Do I have to do all of these?"

    "Yes."

    Looking at the thick stack of files in her hands, Su Qingnuan sighed, realizing her pleasant evening was probably out of the question now.

    The two sat across from each other at the desk, each immersed in their own work. Somehow, it created a strange sense of harmony.

    Feeling fatigued from sorting through documents, Su Qingnuan leaned back to stretch, only to find herself meeting his amused gaze.

    "..." She immediately straightened up, looking all proper and serious. "Mr. Fu, is there anything wrong?"

    "Nothing," Fu Yihan said, retracting his gaze and speaking unhurriedly. "I asked Auntie to make some desserts. Go see if they¡¯re ready."

    "Sure." Su Qingnuan jumped to her feet and jogged out of the room.

    Once outside, Su Qingnuan felt like a bird released from its cage, happily making her way downstairs.

    "You¡¯re here again?"

    The sudden voice cut through her cheerful mood.

    Recognizing it as the old master¡¯s voice, Su Qingnuan froze in ce and leaned against the railing, peering down below.

    The old master was still seated on the sofa, and across from him sat Fu Yixing.

    What trouble was Fu Yixing stirring up to anger the old master this time?

    "Grandfather, ourpany¡¯s system needs a new partner. Isn¡¯t the Su family specialized in this field? I was thinking of coborating with them," Fu Yixing said.

    Hearing the mention of the Su family, Su Qingnuan perked up her ears, listening intently.

    "The current system is working just fine. Why change it?" The old master¡¯s voice carried a hint of anger. "Besides, everyone¡¯s already used to the old system. Sudden changes like this will be hard for the older staff to ept."

    "What does it matter? Those older employees should have retired already. Why not use this opportunity to let them go?"

    "Nonsense!" The old master struck his cane angrily. "Those uncles and elders watched you grow up. Retire them just because you say so? They may be old, but their capabilities are still evident. You can¡¯t just force them to retire!"

    "Capabilities?" Fu Yixing rolled his eyes in annoyance and grumbled, "They¡¯re all just stubborn old fogeys, unwilling to adapt to anything new, constantly obstructing my reforms."

    Seeing his disheveled appearance, the old master sighed helplessly. "Reform isn¡¯t wrong in itself, but it should bring improvements. If the changes negatively affect thepany, it¡¯s not worth it."

    Fu Yixing dismissed him without concern. "How would you know if it¡¯s good or bad without trying it first?"

    "Yixing," the old master said earnestly, "you need to consult the elders more on this matter. Don¡¯t act recklessly, understand?"

    "...Got it," Fu Yixing replied impatiently, standing up. "Anyway, changing the system is already a done deal. There¡¯s no point in talking further."

 Chapter 154 Defiance

    <h4>Chapter 154: Chapter 154 Defiance</h4>

    "You cannot make decisions on your own about this!" The old man stood up, his gaze severe and cautious. "If you must make a change, consult your brother. He has expertise in this area."

    "Consult him?" Fu Yihan sneered coldly, "Why should I consult him? Thispany is under my management now, not his."

    His expression twisted gradually, hatred rising in his eyes.

    The old man sighed faintly: "You are brothers, not enemies. Why must you always end up being unable to tolerate each other?"

    "Ha! I don¡¯t have a brother like him."

    Besides, that person never treated him as a brother either.

    Their temperaments were uncannily alike, both unyieldingly stubborn.

    Denying their brotherhood was preposterous, even to the old man.

    Noticing the old man¡¯s mncholy expression, Fu Yihan forced a smile. "Grandfather, I know you¡¯re concerned about me, but trust me on this matter¡ªit won¡¯t go wrong."

    "Is the Su family¡¯s system any good?" The old man asked pointedly.

    "Naturally." Fu Yihan smirked cunningly. "I¡¯ve tried it, andpared to the system we used before, it¡¯s indeed far superior."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze was firm, his tone full of confidence.

    Judging by his demeanor, it seemed he was resolute about recing the system.

    After a long silence, the old man waved dismissively. "Fine. I¡¯m old now and can¡¯t meddle in thepany¡¯s affairs. If you believe it needs to be reced, then go ahead."

    With that, he leaned on his cane and rose to leave.

    Footsteps echoed from downstairs. Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her gaze and hurriedly ran back to her room.

    Once inside, she closed the door in a fluster.

    Hearing themotion, Fu Yihan rolled his wheelchair out. Seeing Su Qingnuan standing there with a frightened expression, he frowned slightly.

    "Where¡¯s the snack tray and tea you were supposed to bring?"

    Su Qingnuan snapped out of her thoughts, looking at the man across from her, then quickly walked over.

    "Mr. Fu, just now I overheard Fu Yihan saying he intends to terminate the cooperation with ourpany and rece it with the Su family¡¯s system."

    "The Su family¡¯s?" Fu Yihan nced at her doubtfully. "That half-baked system your family has?"

    "..."

    Although thement was harsh, as someone knowledgeable in the field, Su Qingnuan had to admit her family¡¯s system wasn¡¯t exactly remarkable...

    Lowering her head in shame, Su Qingnuan nodded and replied, "Yes, that not-so-great system."

    "Hmm, I see."

    No anger as expected, nor any outburst. Fu Yihan¡¯s expression remained calm.

    It was as if she¡¯d just told him what was for dinner today.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan probed hesitantly, "If the system gets reced like this, wouldn¡¯t ourpany suffer significant financial losses?"

    "Ha!"

    Fu Yihan finally lifted his head, his brows filled with amusement.

    "Who told you that?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan was puzzled. "Isn¡¯t it obvious from the surface?"

    "Obvious from the surface?" His smile deepened. Picking up his phone with practiced ease, Fu Yihan pressed some buttons. "I¡¯d like to see who exactly can deduce from appearances that this matter would greatly impact ourpany."

    Seeing the contact¡¯s name clearly disyed on the phone screen, Su Qingnuan wisely chose to keep quiet.

    The room fell silent for a moment, with only the distinct sound of the ringing tone breaking the stillness.

    "Hello¡ª"

    Manager Huang¡¯s voice shattered the silence in the air.

    "Manager Huang," Fu Yihan looked at Su Qingnuan with an ambiguous smile and asked nonchntly, "I heard the Fu family intends to terminate their contract with us?"

    "Yes, Mr. Fu, rest assured. This contract termination won¡¯t significantly affect us."

    "Oh?" Fu Yihan raised a brow. "Isn¡¯t it said that the Fu family is a major enterprise? If we were to lose such a client without reason, wouldn¡¯t it have considerable repercussions for ourpany¡¯s influence and future development?"

    "Mr. Fu, no need to worry. While the Fu family¡¯s contract is useful to us, it¡¯s far less critical than perceived. After all, we operate on an international scale, with plenty of major clients abroad. We don¡¯t rely on this one client."

    It seems the ITpany that consistently ranks among the top had full confidence to make such a im.

    "Good."

    Ending the call, Fu Yihan looked at Su Qingnuan.

    She stood up immediately and spoke seriously, "Mr. Fu, I understand now."

    "What about the tea and snacks?"

    "...I¡¯ll go get them right away!"

    Running downstairs, Su Qingnuan noticed Fu Yihan seated in the living room, but ignored him.

    She quickly headed to the kitchen.

    "Su Qingnuan."

    She turned back, confused at his call.

    "What?" Fu Yihan approached with a cold smile. "What, you won¡¯t even greet me now?"

    Were they even close?

    Though upset inside, she maintained a polite smile outwardly. "Second Young Master, do you need something?"

    "Nothing." He stood up, walking leisurely toward her. "I just wanted to see how long you can keep pretending."

    "Pretending?" Su Qingnuan stared at him, baffled.

    "Heh."

    His gaze swept her up and down, scrutinizing and teasing in equal measure.

    "Ah, my dear sister-inw!" Taking a step closer, Fu Yihan towered over her, speaking in a toneced with ambiguity. "Are you really Su Yuerou, or just... Su Qingnuan?"

    Her head snapped up, pupils contracting as she regarded Fu Yihan warily.

    "Heh!" He chuckled faintly, his demeanor like a wolf lurking in the shadows, eyes gleaming ominously. "Don¡¯t look at me like that. I haven¡¯t had enough fun yet, so I won¡¯t expose you for now."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s face turned pale, her bloodless lips trembling slightly.

    "...What do you mean by that?"

    "Me?" Fu Yihan lifted her chin provocatively, a hint of a smile on his lips. "I¡¯m just waiting to see how you¡¯ll get exposed and how my crippled elder brother will mercilessly throw you out of this house."

    Su Qingnuan bit her lip tightly, causing her already colorless lips to flush faintly with red.

    "Who told you?" Her gaze was cautious and filled with fear, like a dog whose tail had been stepped on, her whole demeanor screaming vignce.

    "Does it matter?" Fu Yihan¡¯s smile remained unchanged as he withdrew his hand and took a step back. "What you need to do now is live a nervously uncertain life in this household."

    With that, Fu Yihan turned away.

    "If I¡¯m in a good mood, I won¡¯t leak this. But if I¡¯m not in the mood..."

    With a coldugh, Fu Yihan cast an enigmatic look at Su Qingnuan, suggesting volumes without words.

    Su Qingnuan clenched her fists tightly, ring resentfully at his retreating figure.

    Yet Fu Yihan seemed oblivious to the hatred in her gaze.

    Calmly sitting down and picking up a newspaper, Fu Yihan smiled and remarked, "Sister-inw, if you keep looking at me like that, my brother might get jealous."

    "..."

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan closed her eyes and clenched her fists, then turned and walked into the kitchen.

    The warm air inside the kitchen disrupted her thoughts, bringing her rity.

    She and Fu Yihan were like grasshoppers tied to the same string¡ªwhat could it matter even if Fu Yihan knew?

    Fu Yihan certainly wouldn¡¯t throw her out; they had an agreement. But as for the old man...

 Chapter 155 Threatening Words

    <h4>Chapter 155: Chapter 155 Threatening Words</h4>

    "Eldest Young Madam?"

    Su Qingnuan regained her senses, her expression nk as she looked at the person in front of her.

    "What are you doing standing here?" Auntie held a tray in her hands, smiling gently. "I was just preparing to send dessert to you and the Eldest Young Master upstairs!"

    "Ah..."

    Her gaze swept across the tempting desserts on the tray, and Su Qingnuan quickly reached out. "Auntie, let me do it."

    "Alright, thank you, Eldest Young Madam."

    "You¡¯re wee."

    Carrying the dessert out of the kitchen, the sofa was already vacant.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression shifted slightly, her eyes nced toward the doorway, but there was no one.

    Where did he go?

    She looked around but still did not spot his figure. Giving up, Su Qingnuan turned and headed upstairs.

    ...

    Hearing the sound of the door opening, Fu Yihan¡¯s eyelids twitched slightly, and he said in a low voice, "Put the things over there ande over to sort these documents for me."

    The sound of rustling came as the person stood opposite him, partially blocking the light on Fu Yihan¡¯s side.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly. "Move to the side."

    The shadow in front did not dissipate, the tall figure continued to cast over his papers.

    Pausing his movements, Fu Yihan raised his eyes.

    The person before him held the documents in her hands, standing there with a troubled expression.

    "Su Qingnuan!"

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan snapped out of her daze and looked at Fu Yihan with confusion.

    "I meant,e over to this side," Fu Yihan said with raised eyebrows.

    "Oh..."

    Obediently, Su Qingnuan moved to the side Fu Yihan indicated, her gaze lowering.

    Noticing her tightly knit brows, clear eyes full of worry, he shifted his focus back and calmly resumed his tasks.

    After a while, the person beside him still remained motionless.

    "Su Qingnuan." Fu Yihan suddenly called.

    "Ah?" Su Qingnuan turned back to him.

    Setting down the papers, Fu Yihan propped a hand under his head, his gaze burning as he stared at her. "Do I have to ask, or will you tell me yourself?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan slowly lowered her head and murmured, "Mr. Fu, the Second Young Master seems to know that I am not Su Yuerou."

    He raised an eyebrow slightly, his expression unmoved. "And then?"

    "He..." Thinking about what Fu Yixing had just said, Su Qingnuan¡¯s brows furrowed deeply. "The Second Young Master said he wants you, Mr. Fu, to discover my identity and then kick me out of the Fu family."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze turned peculiar, staring at Su Qingnuan for a moment.

    "If he doesn¡¯t know, that¡¯s one thing. But you, knowing the truth yourself, why are you still so troubled?"

    Su Qingnuan clutched the hem of her clothes nervously, her grip involuntary but strong. "I¡¯m worried... What if Grandfather finds out..."

    "Did he say he was going to tell Grandfather?" Fu Yihan asked steadily.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "No, but..."

    "If he doesn¡¯t say anything, you just pretend you don¡¯t know." Turning to face her, Fu Yihan interrupted her calmly, picking up the documents and cing them in her hands. "I won¡¯t ignore this matter on your behalf. Focus on what you need to do and stop worrying about irrelevant things."

    I won¡¯t ignore this matter on your behalf...

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly, staring nkly at Fu Yihan.

    He deftly picked up a new document and spread it across the desk, his deep eyes shing with sharp brilliance.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan came back to her senses, speaking with some emotion. "Thank you."

    "If you want to thank me, hurry up and get through these documents." Fu Yihan said casually, lifting his eyelids.

    "Alright."

    Pulling herself together, Su Qingnuan redirected her attention from the previous matters and focused earnestly on the task at hand as instructed by Fu Yihan.

    The two worked diligently to sort through the documents, and by the time they finished, the sky outside had already darkened.

    Having only eaten some dessert, the two finally began to feel hungry.

    "Mr. Fu, I¡¯ll go ask Auntie to prepare some food." Su Qingnuan proposed.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyelids twitched slightly and murmured in acknowledgment.

    Turning away from the room, Su Qingnuan was about to head downstairs when the study room door to the right opened, and Grandfather walked out.

    "Grandfather." Su Qingnuan greeted politely. "Have you eaten dinner yet?"

    Grandfather¡¯s sharp gaze lingered on her briefly before shifting past her toward the room behind.

    "Where¡¯s Yihan?"

    Su Qingnuan turned her head. "He¡¯s resting inside."

    "Hmm." Grandfather brushed past Su Qingnuan. "You go eat something. I need to talk to Yihan."

    "Alright."

    Eating by herself downstairs, Su Qingnuan still did not see Grandfather emerge. She turned on the television and stared at the screen absentmindedly.

    It wasn¡¯t clear how long had passed when there was noise near the elevator. Su Qingnuan quickly got up.

    Grandfather was pushing Fu Yihan out of the elevator, heading in her direction.

    "Grandfather." Su Qingnuan walked over, smiling. "Let me help."

    Grandfather nced at her briefly but avoided her hand, his expression cold.

    On the other hand, Fu Yihan sat calmly in the wheelchair, observing her with a look of schadenfreude.

    "I¡¯m taking Yihan out for a while. Stay home and rest well, Yuerou."

    Her outstretched hand froze mid-air. Su Qingnuan btedly nodded but saw the two disappear through the front door.

    Something must have happened for them to be in such a hurry.

    Watching their departing figures, Su Qingnuan withdrew her gaze and went upstairs.

    Lying in bed, Su Qingnuan tossed and turned, unable to sleep.

    Fu Yixing¡¯s words echoed persistently in her mind, refusing to fade away.

    Not knowing how much time had passed, as the world grew silent, Su Qingnuan gradually fell into thought.

    "Bang!"

    The sudden loud sound jolted Su Qingnuan awake from her sleep.

    Listening to the noisymotion outside, Su Qingnuan pushed her door open.

    "Move quickly!" Ah Qi directed the people behind him as they shuffled inward.

    Watching the people bustling in and out, Su Qingnuan frowned.

    "Ah Qi." Su Qingnuan approached, puzzled. "What¡¯s going on?"

    "Eldest Young Madam?" Ah Qi nced at her and spoke apologetically. "Sorry for the disturbance."

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, her gaze remaining on the strangers. "What¡¯s all this for?"

    "...Changing the bed."

    "Changing beds? At this hour?"

    "...Yes." Ah Qi avoided Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze, his eyes flickering. "Eldest Young Madam, we¡¯ll need your help moving some thingster on too."

    Su Qingnuan blinked. "What are we moving?"

    Ah Qi raised his hand, pointing toward Fu Yihan¡¯s room. "Moving everything there."

    "..." Her smile froze. "Did Grandfather find out?"

    Ah Qi nodded with difficulty. "This bed was handpicked by Grandfather for the two of you. He only knows that the Eldest Young Master said the house¡¯s current beds weren¡¯t big enough, so he bought a new one."

    No wonder... No wonder Grandfather, who is typically so kind and mild-mannered, suddenly acted coldly today.

    ncing back at the room she had been living in for some time, Su Qingnuan asked tentatively, "What about this ce then?"

    "Grandfather said it¡¯ll now be a private study for you both."

    "..."

    Before Su Qingnuan could fully process what was happening, another group of people came in carrying a massive bed, heading straight for Fu Yihan¡¯s room.

    This setup... It seemed Grandfather wasn¡¯t joking this time.

    As bedding materials were continuously brought into the room, Su Qingnuan finally spotted Fu Yihan standing at the doorway.

    His expression remained indifferent, but noticing her gaze, Fu Yihan raised his eyebrows, and a faint, mocking smile hovered on his lips as he looked back at her.

 Chapter 156: Itéˆ¥æªš Not Me

    <h4>Chapter 156: Chapter 156: It¡¯s Not Me</h4>

    "Come here," he said coldly.

    Su Qingnuan quickly walked over, lowering her head.

    "Mr. Fu, I swear, I never mentioned this to Grandpa."

    Fu Yihan remained silent, staring at her.

    Her body was trembling, hands clenched tightly and hidden behind her.

    Watching her quivering shoulders, Fu Yihan frowned slightly.

    "Stand up straight."

    The severe and icy tone made Su Qingnuan straighten her posture abruptly.

    "What are you afraid of?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head hurriedly and replied softly, "I¡¯m not... I just wanted to exin."

    "Then exin," Fu Yihan said calmly, his gaze fixed on her, waiting patiently.

    Her clenched fingers whitened, and Su Qingnuan paused before slowly speaking, "I was with you all day today, I didn¡¯t spend any time alone with Grandpa. The matter about separating rooms wasn¡¯t told to him by me."

    "Hmm, go on."

    She bit her lip lightly, ncing at Fu Yihan cautiously. Seeing his expressionless face, with no sign of anger, she continued, "In the past few days, I¡¯ve been busy at thepany and hardly had any chances to meet with Grandpa, let alone discuss this kind of thing."

    When she stopped, Fu Yihan spoke evenly, "Finished?"

    "...Yes."

    He raised his eyelids and scrutinized Su Qingnuan.

    Though seated, his bearing was anything but weak, giving an inexplicable sense of superiority.

    "If you¡¯re done, pack up and move over."

    The level tone made it sound like an everyday matter.

    "Huh?" Clear eyes rose abruptly, meeting his deep gaze.

    In those eyes, she saw no hint of joking¡ªonly seriousness and solemnity.

    "...Are you really asking me to move?" Su Qingnuan asked tentatively.

    "Yes."

    The firm reply carried no hesitation.

    Since Fu Yihan didn¡¯t object, it seemed the matter was already set in stone.

    Su Qingnuan turned and walked toward the room.

    At the doorway, she suddenly nced back.

    The man remained seated near the door, like a finely carved statue devoid of emotion¡ªcold and unfeeling.

    ...Hopefully, I won¡¯t be kicked off the bed tonight?

    ...

    Back in her room, Su Qingnuan began packing her belongings unhurriedly.

    It took her nearly an hour before she emerged with her things.

    The outer room was empty¡ªthe uninvited guests had already left.

    Only the faint light from Fu Yihan¡¯s room broke the vast darkness of the house.

    Taking a deep breath, Su Qingnuan carried her things over.

    Fu Yihan was sitting at a small desk, his brows furrowed.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    Fu Yihan looked up.

    Standing at the door was someone in pajamas, hair slightly messy, her delicate face wore a faint smile tinged with bitterness.

    The bag in her hands was small and appeared nearly empty.

    "Come in," he said, lowering his head again. "Put your clothes in the cab on the right. The top shelf has new bedding and pillows."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan sighed in relief and quickly got to work.

    Indeed, the bed in Fu Yihan¡¯s room had been reced with a new one. Compared to the previous two-meter-wide bed, this one was evenrger.

    At a nce, it seemed impossible to find such width in a standard store.

    "It¡¯s custom-made."

    Su Qingnuan froze and turned back, meeting his faintly amused gaze.

    Evidently, her puzzled expression towards the bed had been too apparent¡ªeven Fu Yihan, who had been working, had noticed and chose to exin.

    Lowering her head awkwardly, Su Qingnuan whispered, "How did the custom-made bed arrive so quickly?"

    "Ha!" He scoffed coldly, lowering his head again. "He couldn¡¯t wait for you to move here himself and went straight to the factory to oversee its production. How could it not be quick?"

    Thinking about Grandpa¡¯s constant urging, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but offer a bitter smile.

    It truly was Grandpa¡¯s style.

    After methodically organizing her things, Su Qingnuan stood awkwardly by the cab.

    Noticing her stillness, Fu Yihan nced over with mild curiosity.

    "Why are you standing there? Not tired?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head. "Should I go outside and read?"

    Frowning slightly, Fu Yihan turned off the deskmp beside him. "I¡¯m going to sleep."

    "...Okay then."

    While Su Qingnuan had been tidying up, Fu Yihan had already finished washing up. He was now in pajamas, his wheelchair positioned by the bed.

    He remained motionless, his gaze fixed on her.

    Noticing his movements, Su Qingnuan quickly walked over to support him as he stood.

    He sat on the bed, and only then did Su Qingnuan carefully lift his legs, cing them down.

    Seeing his legs suspended in mid-air, Su Qingnuan froze for a moment.

    Normally hunched over in the wheelchair, Fu Yihan¡¯s height went unnoticed. Even while standing, his posture was stooped, often relying on crutches.

    Now lying down, his head rested on the pillow, but his legs hung in the air.

    "...Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan nced at him hesitantly.

    Following her gaze, Fu Yihan took one look before indifferently closing his eyes. "Sleep."

    It was hard to imagine how tall this man was. A fleeting nce at his dangling legs prompted Su Qingnuan to silently move to the other side of the bed.

    Despite its increased width, the bed¡¯s length remained unchanged¡ªno different from an ordinary one.

    Lying on the opposite side, Su Qingnuan stretched her legs.

    Curving her neck toward the foot of the bed, she nced downward.

    Although not short, her petite frame suddenly felt diminutive...

    Seeing the considerable distance between her feet and the bed¡¯s edge, Su Qingnuan silently curled up further, her head resting only slightly on the pillow.

    "What are you doing?"

    The irritated voice broke the silence.

    Though each had their own nket, sharing the same bed meant even the slightest movement from one person could disturb the other.

    "Nothing..." Su Qingnuan straightened out immediately, not daring to move again.

    In the darkness, the man seemed to turn his head, his glowing eyes scrutinizing her momentarily before looking away again.

    Once his cold gaze disappeared, Su Qingnuan exhaled quietly, closing her eyes.

    Beside her, steady breathing filled the air, one sound following the next.

    Su Qingnuan blinked, struggling to ignore the rhythmic noise, only to stay wide awake till morning.

    Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t slept well either.

    Used to solitude, sharing the bed made it hard to rx.

    Unlike Su Qingnuan, whose eyes stayed open, Fu Yihan¡¯s consciousness remained alert.

    At dawn, Su Qingnuan finally gave in and sat upright.

    Her movements caused the nearby man to roll over.

    "...Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan called softly.

    No response¡ªhe seemed to have merely shifted in half-sleep.

    Keeping her movements light, Su Qingnuan crawled off the bed and left the room.

    Unbeknownst to her, as the door closed shut, the man on the bed suddenly opened his eyes.

    Clear and alert, devoid of drowsiness.

    Fu Yihan stared at the empty space beside him for a long time before pushing himself upright.

    ...

    "Ha..." Su Qingnuan stifled a yawn, tears welling in her tired eyes.

    Dropping her hand, she met Grandpa¡¯s warm, amused gaze.

    "Qingnuan, did you sleep wellst night?"

 Chapter 157: Ambiguity

    <h4>Chapter 157: Chapter 157: Ambiguity</h4>

    The smile ying at the corners of the old man¡¯s lips, the gossipy glint in his eyes, and the way his gaze fell brightly on the two of them all betrayed his current thoughts.

    "...Pretty good." Su Qingnuan forced a smile. "I slept pretty well."

    If only the tworge dark circles around her eyes weren¡¯t so prominent, her words might have been more convincing.

    The old man chuckled knowingly and nodded as if it were only natural.

    "As long as you slept well."

    With that, he lowered his head, grinning like a fox caught stealing a chicken.

    Su Qingnuan looked baffled and sneaked a nce at Fu Yihan beside her. Though his face remained impassive, the coldness in his eyes seemed to have softened a little.

    What kind of bizarre atmosphere was this?

    Silently lowering her gaze, Su Qingnuan turned back to eating.

    In moments like these, silence was the best response.

    In this peculiar ambiance, Su Qingnuan finally finished her breakfast.

    "Grandpa, I¡¯ve finished eating. I¡¯ll head out first."

    With that, she grabbed her bag, preparing to leave.

    "Hey! Wait a moment!" The old man stopped Su Qingnuan, his gaze unconsciously drifting toward Fu Yihan. "Don¡¯t rush, wait for Yihan. He¡¯s almost done too, isn¡¯t he?"

    "..."

    ncing at Fu Yihan, who was eating calmly, Su Qingnuan softly prompted, "It¡¯s almost time."

    His indifferent gaze slid over to Su Qingnuan before drifting to the wheelchair beneath him.

    Understanding his meaning, Su Qingnuan quickly went over, pushing the wheelchair toward the door.

    "Grandpa, we¡¯re off now," Su Qingnuan said with a smile.

    "Alright, go on now," the old man replied, smiling with satisfaction and waving them off.

    For some reason, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there was something else in the old man¡¯s gaze, but she couldn¡¯t quite figure out what it was.

    Ah Qi was already waiting at the door for them.

    Taking hold of the wheelchair, Ah Qi pushed Fu Yihan toward the car.

    "Thank you, Ah Qi," Su Qingnuan said with a soft smile.

    Ah Qi opened the car door, his expression unchanged. "Young Mistress, please get in."

    "Alright."

    After dropping them off at thepany, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t follow Fu Yihan inside. Instead, she watched him enter before making her own way in.

    The people in thepany still looked at her with those same curious eyes.

    Su Qingnuan ignored them, walking forward at her usual pace.

    "Qingnuan!" Gu Xiaoxiao was at her workstation, smiling brightly and waving at her.

    Su Qingnuan walked over, chuckling softly. "What are you up to?"

    "I¡¯m looking at some information!" Gu Xiaoxiao grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand and whispered, "Let me tell you, the entirepany is talking about the Fu Family ending the contract today."

    "Oh?" Su Qingnuan smiled lightly. "What are they saying about us?"

    "Well..." Gu Xiaoxiao leaned closer to her ear and continued, "They¡¯re saying that our little mistake might have turned into a blessing in disguise."

    "A blessing in disguise?" Su Qingnuan asked with a puzzled look. "What kind of blessing?"

    "I heard that apany hostile to the Fu Family found out about their terminated contract with us and reached out to start discussing cooperation."

    "What a coincidence," Su Qingnuan said, blinking in surprise. "As far as I know, the Fu Family has plenty of enemies in the business world. Whichpany is it?"

    "No idea..." Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s voice dropped to a near whisper. "I just heard that this person isn¡¯t someone to mess with."

    "Someone not to mess with might actually be a good thing. At least if the Fu Familyins about us, they¡¯ll think twice before making it personal with us."

    "True enough," Gu Xiaoxiao said, giving her a thumbs-up with a light smile. "Indeed, those from prestigious families tend to think things through more thoroughly."

    Seeing her teasing gaze, Su Qingnuan chuckled. "So you¡¯re looking for trouble this early in the morning, huh?"

    "Of course... not," Gu Xiaoxiao said with a mischievous grin, handing over a stack of documents. "This is your workload for the day. Manager Huang personally brought these down to us."

    "...Manager Huang personally brought them?" Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, her expressionplicated.

    "Yep, he¡¯s been back and forth two or three times now. No idea why, but he keepsing to our department."

    Just as she finished speaking, someone called for Manager Huang.

    Turning her head, Su Qingnuan saw Manager Huang, hands in his pockets, making his way over.

    Gu Xiaoxiao quickly shoved the files into Su Qingnuan¡¯s arms and urged, "Hurry up and get to work! Otherwise, you¡¯re going to get scolded again."

    Judging by her tone, it seemed she¡¯d been scolded quite a few times herself.

    Holding the documents, Su Qingnuan returned to her workstation.

    She had just sat down when the light in front of her was dimmed.

    Looking up, she saw the person standing before her and quickly said, "Manager Huang."

    "Ah!" Manager Huang sped his hands behind his back, his gazending on the files in her hands. "Getting started on work?"

    "Yes..."

    Manager Huang¡¯s attitude was unusually pleasant, his face adorned with a harmonious smile.

    Su Qingnuan looked at him uncertainly. "Manager Huang, is there something you need?"

    Raising an eyebrow, Manager Huang looked Su Qingnuan up and down. "Can¡¯t I juste over to take a look if there¡¯s nothing pressing?"

    "...Of course, you can. Take a look as you please."

    Hearing this, Manager Huang nodded, tilted his chin slightly, and said with a grin, "You continue with your work. I¡¯m just looking around."

    "...Alright."

    True to his word, Manager Huang wandered around the office for a short while before leaving.

    But his final, pensive nce left a ripple of unease through the entire department.

    "Do you think Manager Huang is nning something?"

    "It sure seems like it..."

    "Why else would he be wandering around here for no reason? This is the second time today..."

    "Who knows what he¡¯s thinking..."

    From the morning onward, the entire department had been specting about this, but no one could figure out Manager Huang¡¯s true intentions. The repeated visits left the team so on edge that by the time work ended, no one stayed back for even a moment, grabbing their things and rushing out.

    "Do you think Manager Huang is okay mentally?" Gu Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly.

    Su Qingnuan gave her a gentle nudge, whispering, "Don¡¯t say things like that. What if someone overhears?"

    "...Got it."

    The two parted ways at the front door, and Su Qingnuan got into the car.

    Unexpectedly, Fu Yihan was not in the car. Su Qingnuan looked puzzled.

    "Ah Qi, where is Mr. Fu?"

    Eyes on the road, Ah Qi replied, "The Eldest Young Master went back ahead of us."

    How unusual...

    Leaning back in her seat, Su Qingnuan let herself truly rx.

    Spotting her movement through the rearview mirror, Ah Qi chuckled lightly. "Young Mistress, was work smooth today?"

    "It¡¯s fine," Su Qingnuan said, her lips curling into a smile. "Doing what you love¡ªno matter how tiring¡ªis always worth it."

    "As long as the Young Mistress is happy."

    For some reason, Su Qingnuan thought of Manager Huang¡¯s strange behavior and opened her eyes. "Ah Qi, are you familiar with Manager Huang?"

    "Fairly well. Why?"

    Su Qingnuan recounted Manager Huang¡¯s actions from the day and asked temptingly, "Do you think he¡¯s in a good mood or a bad one?"

    Ah Qi chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "Neither good nor bad¡ªprobably just curious."

 Chapter 158: New Bed

    <h4>Chapter 158: Chapter 158: New Bed</h4>

    "Curious?" Su Qingnuan looked at him in surprise. "Curious? Curious about what?"

    A Qi smiled without responding.

    By the time the car stopped, Su Qingnuan still hadn¡¯t figured out the answer.

    Returning to the Fu residence, she unexpectedly saw Fu Yihan sitting on the sofa.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan nced around, not seeing anyone else. She asked, puzzled, "Why are you here alone?"

    Fu Yihan raised his eyelids slightly, not even turning his head. "Who else were you expecting to be here?"

    "...No one in particr."

    Su Qingnuan walked over and tentatively asked, "I¡¯m heading upstairs now. Mr. Fu, do you...?"

    Calmly putting down the remote control, Fu Yihan looked at Su Qingnuan. "Help me up."

    "Alright."

    Helping Fu Yihan into his wheelchair, Su Qingnuan pushed him upstairs.

    Once inside, Su Qingnuan grabbed her bag and prepared to go to her own room. She had only gone halfway when she suddenly stopped, remembering something.

    Turning her head back, she saw Fu Yihan sitting there, looking at her with a half-smile.

    Su Qingnuan gave a wry smile. "Mr. Fu, I might..."

    "The desk in this room is quiterge," Fu Yihan said, his expression unchanged.

    The implication was clear¡ªthe previous room was now unusable.

    Su Qingnuan nced longingly at the closed door ahead of her, sighed softly, then turned around to push Fu Yihan into his room.

    As she entered, Su Qingnuan thought for a moment that she must have walked into the wrong ce.

    "This..." Su Qingnuan stared at Fu Yihan in rm.

    He remained expressionless, quietly gazing straight ahead.

    What had been a simple and elegant room only yesterday was now filled with romantic pink, and...

    The bed newly recedst night had vanished. Now upying the center of the room was an evenrger bed.

    Feeling the vibration of the wheelchair, Su Qingnuan lowered her eyes.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s hands were gripping the armrests tightly, his fingers turning white.

    Su Qingnuan nervously retreated and said in a low voice, "Mr. Fu, I think... we¡¯d better go to the study?"

    "..."

    His icy gaze slowly shifted back, and Fu Yihan shot Su Qingnuan a nce.

    Just one nce¡ªcold as a frozen abyss.

    Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head, not daring to meet Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes again.

    "Get out," he said.

    Su Qingnuan nodded hurriedly, grabbed her bag, and walked out.

    The moment she closed the door, Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief.

    The stifling atmosphere earlier¡ªif she¡¯d stayed a second longer, the storm brewing inside would surely have erupted.

    Standing outside the door, Su Qingnuan waited for a moment. Confirming there was no sound from within, she grabbed her bag and went downstairs.

    The study was not a ce she dared to casually enter, and there was no space for her in the rooms. Su Qingnuan had no choice but to sit on the sofa, feeling aggrieved.

    She didn¡¯t know how long had passed before a cheerful voice came from the doorway.

    Su Qingnuan immediately stood up and turned toward the sound.

    The old man came in, carrying a birdcage and smiling warmly.

    "Grandpa!" Su Qingnuan hurriedly called out.

    The old man¡¯s smile froze for a moment. Looking at Su Qingnuan, he mysteriously crooked his finger, beckoning her over.

    Su Qingnuan nced upstairs, then walked toward him.

    "Did you go upstairs yet?" the old man asked in a low whisper.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, lowering her voice as well. "Grandpa, was all that... your doing in the room?"

    "How about it? Do you like it?" The old man grinned proudly. "I specifically hired someone to design it for you two."

    "...Grandpa, you work so fast. It only took you a day." Su Qingnuan looked at the old man, at a loss for words.

    "Aha!" The old man chuckled. "When ites to dealing with your husband, efficiency is key. You can¡¯t always y by his rules¡ªit doesn¡¯t work that way."

    "..."

    Seeing her fall silent, the old man turned to look around with a smile. "Where¡¯s Yihan? Why didn¡¯t I see him?"

    "...He¡¯s upstairs in his room."

    The old man¡¯s smile stiffened. He quickly handed the birdcage to Su Qingnuan. "Yuerou, I just remembered there¡¯s something I need to take care of. I¡¯ll be heading out; you keep an eye on this for me."

    "...Grandpa!"

    Watching the old man walk briskly with his cane, practically flying, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but let out a bitterugh.

    The instigator had fled, leaving her to face the fallout?

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan stared at the bird in the cage for a moment before sighing silently.

    She stayed in the living room for a long time until Fu Yixing returned, looking at her quizzically.

    Su Qingnuan quickly bolted upstairs.

    Stopping at the door to the room, panting for breath, Su Qingnuan waited until her heartbeat steadied before carefully opening the door.

    The room was unlit¡ªpitch ck.

    The darkness enveloped the space, unusually quiet.

    Could he have fallen asleep?

    Su Qingnuan tiptoed her way inside, heading further in.

    Seeing that no one was outside, Su Qingnuan hesitated before turning on the light.

    In the small sitting room, everything was clean¡ªso clean, there were no nkets or ces to sleep.

    Su Qingnuan returned to her former resting ce, only to find that the bed there had been dismantled, transforming the room entirely into a study.

    Sighing softly, Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan¡¯s room, frowning slightly.

    The door was closed. If she went in now, would she be thrown out?

    After much hesitation, Su Qingnuan ultimately decided not to open the door and insteady down on the sofa.

    Using her coat as a nket, she stared at the ceiling, her thoughts drifting aimlessly.

    How long would she have to endure sleeping on the sofa...

    She hoped to make money quickly and leave this ce, so she wouldn¡¯t have to see others¡¯ moods as she lived her life.

    With such chaotic thoughts in mind, Su Qingnuan¡¯s consciousness gradually faded.

    In her dreams, Su Qingnuan¡¯s body floated atop the ocean, rising and falling, carried by the currents.

    Suddenly, gravity returned, and her body sank. That overwhelming feeling of falling startled Su Qingnuan awake.

    Opening her eyes wide, she saw the familiar ceiling.

    Su Qingnuan sat up on the sofa, a wave of dizziness washing over her.

    Holding her head, she felt disoriented.

    She hadn¡¯t expected to sleep through the entire night...

    But why did her head feel so heavy?

    Gripping the sofa for support, Su Qingnuan stood up, only to feel another bout of vertigo.

    Hurriedly holding onto the sofa, she closed her eyes.

    After a long while, the dizziness finally dissipated.

    Sighing softly, Su Qingnuan straightened up and, no longer feeling as dizzy, stepped outside.

    There was no sign of Fu Yihan downstairs¡ªunsurprisingly, since his door was still shut.

    Sitting at the dining table, Su Qingnuan noticed that the old man and Fu Yixing were also absent today.

    The enormous dining table seated only her.

    In a way, that was fine¡ªit felt freer this way.

    But after just a couple of bites, Su Qingnuan found herself losing her appetite.

    cing her chopsticks down, she nced at the time, then tilted her head to look upstairs.

    Should she go wake up Fu Yihan?

    What if he got angry?

    After deliberating for a while, Su Qingnuan decided it wasn¡¯t worth the risk. She grabbed her bag and stepped outside.

    A Qi was already standing by the door. Seeing her, he opened the car door for her.

    "A Qi, Mr. Fu seems to still be resting. Should we wait for him?" Su Qingnuan nced back at the balcony on the second floor.

    "Mr. Fu already called. I¡¯m to take you directly to thepany."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan said in surprise. "When did he say that?"

 Chapter 159: Sick

    <h4>Chapter 159: Chapter 159: Sick</h4>

    "Just now."

    So, the person is awake?

    She nced up at the second floor again, but the tightly shut curtains made it impossible to see anything inside.

    After a long pause, Su Qingnuan retracted her gaze. "Let¡¯s go."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan got into the car, leaned back in the seat, andfortably closed her eyes.

    With the sway of the vehicle, without realizing it, Su Qingnuan fell asleep again.

    "Madam? Madam?"

    The familiar voice calling out softly near her ear woke Su Qingnuan, who opened her eyes groggily.

    Ah Qi was sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, turning his head to look at her helplessly.

    "Madam, we¡¯ve arrived at thepany."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan bolted upright, startled. "We¡¯re here already?"

    "Yes, we¡¯re here. You¡¯re about to bete."

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze to check her watch. Sure enough, there were only a few minutes left.

    In a panic, she pushed the car door open and stepped out, not even having time to speak with Ah Qi as she dashed toward thepany.

    Rushing hurriedly back to the office, she nced at the clock and realized she¡¯d made it just in time.

    Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief and sat down.

    A cup of steaming hot water appeared on her desk.

    "In such a rush¡ªdid you oversleep?" Gu Xiaoxiao leaned against the edge of the desk, teasing her with a smile.

    Su Qingnuan waved her hand and responded helplessly, "I fell asleep in the car."

    "...Not sure whether to envy or be jealous of you."

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly. "No need to envy, no need to be jealous. I¡¯ll have something good for youter."

    "Alright, I¡¯ll get back to work, then."

    "Okay."

    Watching Gu Xiaoxiao return to her desk, Su Qingnuan finally took out her belongings and started working.

    But for some reason, after sitting for a while, Su Qingnuan felt a wave of drowsiness creeping in. Her head began feeling muddled.

    As time passed, this sensation grew stronger.

    She rubbed her temples, trying hard to stay awake.

    But the relief was temporary. Soon enough, the hazy feeling re-emerged.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and stood up to head to the restroom.

    She cupped her hands to ssh cold water on her face, the icy touch momentarily clearing her mind.

    Looking at her reflection in the mirror, she was somewhat surprised.

    When did her face get so flushed? It looked rosy¡ªalmost healthy...

    Perhaps living with the Fu family had improved her diet. With nothing to worry about, herplexion naturally improved.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curved into a small smile. She turned and headed back.

    After taking a few steps, her foot faltered, and she nearly fell to the ground. Luckily, a colleague passing by caught her.

    "Are you okay?" the colleague asked.

    Su Qingnuan waved her hand, smiling as she shook her head. "I¡¯m fine."

    "Really?" Manager Huang frowned at her. "You don¡¯t look too good."

    Though her cheeks were flushed, it wasn¡¯t the kind of healthy red.

    "I¡¯m really fine." Su Qingnuan smiled lightly and walked back to her desk.

    Watching her retreating figure, Manager Huang furrowed his brows slightly before pulling out his phone.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan widened her eyes, sitting up in her chair, only to feel her eyelids drooping momentster.

    Just as she was about to fully close her eyes, she jolted awake, forcing herself to open them.

    This cycle repeated over and over again until even the person next to her noticed.

    "Su Qingnuan, are you alright?" the coworker asked.

    Su Qingnuan blinked a few times and gave a faint smile. "I¡¯m fine!"

    "You sure?" The coworker looked at her, hesitating to say more.

    Su Qingnuan nodded vigorously. "Of course! I¡¯m perfectly fine!"

    After speaking, she ced her hands on the keyboard and continued working.

    Seeing herposed demeanor, the coworker refrained from pressing the matter and turned their focus away.

    But only Su Qingnuan herself knew the truth¡ªshe felt terrible. Her chest burned as though consumed by mes, her head was foggy, and she couldn¡¯t process or think clearly.

    I might be sick, Su Qingnuan thought.

    While debating where to buy medicer, two knocks sounded on the desk in front of her.

    Su Qingnuan raised her eyes and saw a familiar face.

    "Manager Huang?" Su Qingnuan quickly stood up. "Manager, what brings you down here? Is there something you need?"

    Seeing her increasingly unusualplexion, Manager Huang frowned slightly. "Follow me."

    "Huh?"

    Scrambling after Manager Huang, Su Qingnuan¡¯s foggy mind struggled to understand why he wanted to see her.

    When the elevator came to a stop, Manager Huang led her into an office.

    This office looked very familiar. After a moment of contemtion, Su Qingnuan finally realized¡ªit was Fu Yihan¡¯s office.

    "Rest here," Manager Huang instructed sternly. "Two hourster, go back to work."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan quickly said, "Manager Huang, I¡¯m fine. There¡¯s no need to rest."

    Manager Huang said nothing and left, closing the door behind him.

    As the door shut, Su Qingnuan inexplicably felt a sense of relief.

    Looking around the familiar office, she became somewhat at a loss.

    Sitting down on the sofa, Su Qingnuan considered whether she should just rest for a bit.

    The moment that thought emerged, it spread like a virus, rapidly consuming her entire mind.

    After a while, Su Qingnuan lost all awareness and copsed onto the sofa.

    ...

    "Screech¡ª"

    The heavy door was pushed open from the outside, and Ah Qi nced behind him.

    Fu Yihan entered the room, wheeling himself forward. His gaze immediately fell on the figure lying on the sofa.

    "Go check on her," Fu Yihan said with a frown.

    "Yes."

    Ah Qi quietly approached. After a moment, he looked up at Fu Yihan. "It seems she¡¯s asleep."

    Fu Yihan said nothing, wheeling himself closer.

    Su Qingnuan was deeply asleep, her breathingbored, as though it might stop at any moment.

    Noticing the flush on her face, Fu Yihan reached out and touched her forehead lightly.

    The burning heat nearly scalded Fu Yihan¡¯s hand.

    "Call a doctor."

    "Yes."

    Watching Ah Qi leave the room, Fu Yihan turned and entered the lounge, retrieving a nket.

    Still fuming from angerst night, Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t wanted to see Su Qingnuan. He hadn¡¯t expected her to sleep on the sofa overnight instead of going inside.

    Thinking of this, Fu Yihan¡¯s expression grew even darker.

    Her body is already this weak, yet she insists on pretending to be strong!

    Originally, he nned to ignore her for a few days, but who would¡¯ve thought his resolve would break the very next day?

    "Burning like this and still insisting you¡¯re fine?" Fu Yihan muttered under his breath.

    If you end up damaging your brain, who¡¯ll want you then?

    Despite his irritation, Fu Yihan subconsciously tightened the nket around Su Qingnuan.

    The person in her sleep seemed to sense the confinement, struggling to free her hands.

    Fu Yihan raised a brow, pressing the nket firmly against her to prevent her from breaking free.

    After a brief struggle, sweat began to bead on Su Qingnuan¡¯s forehead, but she remained unconscious.

    Seeing her finally give up resisting, the sleeping figure oddly settled down, no longer putting up a fight.

    Her head tilted outward, leaning directly against Fu Yihan¡¯s arm.

    The closeness offered neither weight nor pressure.

    Fu Yihan stared at her face for a long while, then suddenly reached out and pulled her into his embrace.

 Chapter 160 How Will You Compensate Me?

    <h4>Chapter 160: Chapter 160 How Will You Compensate Me?</h4>

    So hot...

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s body felt as though it was soaked in a furnace, constantly radiating heat.

    She tried to escape the endless source of warmth, but her legs and feet seemed tied down, unable to move.

    It¡¯s so ufortable...

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but open her mouth, trying to breathe in cool air, but it was futile¡ªthe heat from her body wouldn¡¯t dissipate.

    Something is restraining her...

    She made an effort to lift her eyelids to see what was going on, but the ovepping shadows in her vision obscured her surroundings.

    "Eh? Eyes are open?"

    Fu Yihan suddenly turned his head. Sure enough, the person on the bed was now half-awake, looking nkly ahead.

    "Awake?" Fu Yihan asked softly.

    He didn¡¯t realize how gentle his tone sounded at that moment, drawing frequent nces from Aqi beside him.

    Those confused eyes blinked briefly, then closed again.

    Fu Yihan froze for a moment, frowned, and turned his gaze to the person next to him.

    "Mr. Fu, rest assured, the youngdy waking up indicates there¡¯s nothing serious," said the person beside him.

    "Are you sure?" Fu Yihan asked impatiently.

    "I¡¯m sure."

    "...Fine." Drawing his gaze back, Fu Yihan stared at the person who had fallen back into restless sleep and said in a low voice, "Aqi, escort the doctor out."

    "Yes."

    Aqi left with the doctor, leaving only Su Qingnuan, who was sleeping fitfully in the bed, and Fu Yihan, quietly standing guard nearby.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s body radiated heat, and her face was flushed red.

    Since he first met Su Qingnuan, she had always been pale.

    Perhaps due to her heart condition, she always exuded stillness, asionally tinged with an air of fragility.

    The more fragile she seemed, the more Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t resist teasing her.

    When he teased her too much, he would see her pitiful state and reluctantly hold back.

    The cycle repeated over and over, and even Fu Yihan himself could notprehend his exact feelings.

    Just moments earlier, watching her lifelessly lying on the sofa, Fu Yihan felt an inexplicable mix of anger and fear. That internal contradiction lingered in him even now.

    Initially, he intended to watch coldly from the sidelines, but how had ite to this¡ªhe simply couldn¡¯t do it?

    Asking himself honestly, Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t done anything to wrong him. On the contrary, she had done her best to treat him kindly.

    Although she always looked at Fu Yihan with fearful eyes, she would go out of her way to help him whenever she could.

    Even though, in Fu Yihan¡¯s view, her efforts were insignificant, he could see her intentions.

    Her heart...

    Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze fell on her fluttering eyshes.

    Feather-like, denseshes swayed on their own, like little fans.

    Still, she showed no signs of waking up.

    Fu Yihan leaned in closer and called softly, "Su Qingnuan?"

    His voice was low and raspy, the gentleness in it unprecedented.

    The person in her dream stirred, hershes fluttering but showing no intent to wake.

    Looking at her flushed cheeks, Fu Yihan sighed softly and tightened his grip on the edge of the nket.

    ...

    When her consciousness cleared, a wave of soreness ran through her body, and even lifting her hand felt impossible.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, mustering all her strength to open her eyes.

    This is...

    The next moment, Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened.

    Isn¡¯t this the Fu household?

    The familiar room, an unfamiliar big bed.

    Shouldn¡¯t she be at work in thepany? How was she here at the Fu household?

    Panic-stricken, Su Qingnuan sat up.

    However, the instant she got up, dizziness overwhelmed her, almost causing her to copse again.

    Holding her forehead, she barely managed to recover from the dizziness. When she raised her eyes, there was suddenly another figure in the room.

    "Awake?" Fu Yihan entered the room from the doorway, his indifferent gazending casually on her.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan nervously gripped the duvet. "What¡¯s going on..."

    "What¡¯s going on?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, his smirk deepening. "Don¡¯t you know yourself? You don¡¯t remember?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan awkwardly shook her head and sighed. "I don¡¯t seem to have much impression of it..."

    "No impression?" Fu Yihan snorted softly, moving to the bedside. "No impression is fine. Not like I expected you to recall."

    Looking at his expression, which was full of disappointment, Su Qingnuan lowered her head, not daring to speak further.

    "What¡¯s the point of lowering your head?" Fu Yihan tilted her chin upwards, forcing her to meet his gaze. "I¡¯m not scolding you."

    "..."

    Yet it felt like that gaze was about to deliver a scolding...

    "Cough¡ª" Su Qingnuan shifted her attention and murmured hesitantly, "It¡¯s just... I feel a bit dizzy..."

    "Dizzy?" Fu Yihan¡¯s brows furrowed deeply as he examined her. "Where else do you feel unwell? Burned yourself foggy?"

    "...No."

    Instinctively, Su Qingnuan leaned backward, evading Fu Yihan¡¯s hand.

    His long fingers froze awkwardly in mid-air.

    Out of caution, she peeked up and found Fu Yihan¡¯s expression dark and unpleasant.

    Hastily leaning forward, Su Qingnuan ced her forehead against his slender fingers.

    The heat from her skin transferred to his fingers, searing and noticeable.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow slightly, his smile lightening as he looked at Su Qingnuan.

    She seemed oblivious to how intimate the gesture was and grinned lightly. "See? Isn¡¯t it much better now?"

    Perhaps due to her elevated temperature, Su Qingnuan¡¯s forehead exuded a sweatden warmth when touched.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s index finger twitched slightly and tapped her forehead.

    "Still not better yet. Lie down properly."

    Su Qingnuan froze, puzzled, as she rubbed her brow.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "Don¡¯t want to keep lying down?"

    "No..."

    Su Qingnuan quickly pulled the duvet over herself andy back down.

    She pressed her hand against her chest, not knowing why her cheeks now felt even hotter than before.

    Her body instinctively curled up, forming a small ball.

    "...Are you trying to suffocate yourself?"

    Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but reach over and pull her out of the duvet pile.

    Meeting Su Qingnuan¡¯s startled gaze, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "If you suffocate yourself, Grandpa wille demanding exnations from meter."

    "...Sorry." Su Qingnuan tucked her face back into the duvet, ashamed.

    "..."

    This time, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say much and directly plucked her back out.

    "Lie still."

    "...Okay."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s watchful gaze, Su Qingnuan dared not misbehave and obedientlyy still.

    Fu Yihan sat by the bed, silently watching her.

    The atmosphere... carried a hint of awkwardness...

    In Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes were reflections of stars and seas¡ªvast and deep, unreadable.

    But there was something else hidden within them, and Su Qingnuan did not dare to investigate further.

    Shrinking away, Su Qingnuan stammered, "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re staring at me like this¡ªI..."

    Seeing her embarrassment, Fu Yihan finally looked away.

    "Are you hungry?"

    She didn¡¯t know how long she had been asleep, but her stomach felt full rather than empty.

    "Not hungry."

    "You¡¯ve slept for an entire day and night, and you¡¯re not hungry?" Fu Yihan questioned in surprise.

    Su Qingnuan nodded. "Not hungry. I even feel a bit full."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan gave her a peculiar look, as though something crossed his mind.

 Chapter 161: Change of Attitude

    <h4>Chapter 161: Chapter 161: Change of Attitude</h4>

    Su Qingnuan met his gaze and asked in confusion, "What¡¯s wrong?"

    "Nothing." Fu Yihan quickly looked away, his expression calm. "I asked Auntie to make some porridge. Even if you¡¯re not hungry, have a bit."

    "...Okay."

    The reluctant tone reached Fu Yihan¡¯s ears.

    He nced at Su Qingnuan and said with a faint smile, "You¡¯re unhappy about drinking porridge?"

    "No..." Su Qingnuan forced a smile. "How could I be... I know Mr. Fu cares about me."

    "As long as you know." Fu Yihan¡¯s expression hardened as he said seriously, "From now on, stay here peacefully and don¡¯t think about unnecessary things."

    What unnecessary things?

    Su Qingnuan wanted to ask, but seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s expression, she decided it was best not to.

    After thinking it over, Su Qingnuan ultimately asked nothing.

    "I got it." She lowered her head and replied softly.

    Seeing her slightly aggrieved demeanor, Fu Yihan frowned but said nothing.

    Su Qingnuan only stayed awake for a moment before tilting her head and falling back asleep.

    Watching her peaceful sleeping face, this time, Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t as worried.

    He tucked the edges of her nket and rolled his wheelchair away.

    "Eldest Young Master."

    Standing at the door, A Qi bowed respectfully.

    "Hmm." Fu Yihan nodded, his expression unreadable. "How¡¯s thepany¡¯s situation?"

    "The contract with the Jiang family has been signed, and the follow-up cooperation arrangements are ready."

    "What about the Fu family?"

    His tone was casual, as though mentioning it without particr intention.

    A Qi caught his gaze and dutifully continued, "The Fu family is reaching out to sign with the Su family, but judging from the Old Master¡¯s attitude, he seems unwilling to finalize it."

    "Heh!" Fu Yihan sneered. "The Old Master is a perceptive man; he knows the pros and cons."

    "...Eldest Young Master," A Qi hesitated as he looked at Fu Yihan, seemingly about to speak.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, giving him a half-smile. "What is it? Speak inly."

    "The Old Master¡¯s intention is to have you return to thepany to manage things..."

    "I know." Cutting off A Qi¡¯s words, Fu Yihan chuckled lightly. "I understand the Old Master¡¯s intentions, but the driver hasn¡¯t arrived yet."

    "But Eldest Young Master... With the Fu family¡¯s current situation..."

    Fu Yihan turned, his gaze like a piercing beam fixed on A Qi.

    A Qi paused and stopped talking.

    "Don¡¯t worry about this matter. Focus on what I¡¯ve instructed you to do."

    "Yes."

    Fu Yihan gestured. "Wheel me to the study."

    "Yes."

    ...

    Waking up again, Su Qingnuan stared at the ceiling, momentarily dazed.

    If I keep sleeping like this, I¡¯ll turn into a total cker...

    She pushed herself up, nced to the side, and noticed a thermometer and a cup of water by the bed.

    Su Qingnuan swallowed and picked up the cup.

    Hmm? It¡¯s still warm?

    After taking two sips, Su Qingnuan set it down.

    Her throat felt slightly better as she lifted the nket and got out of bed.

    The air carried warmth, which wasn¡¯t typical for this season.

    Is the heating already on?

    Su Qingnuan looked out the window in confusion, wondering how long she had slept this time.

    Standing by the bed, her face was full of doubt.

    Just then, the door opened.

    Su Qingnuan turned her head.

    A Qi stood at the doorway, surprised to see her upright. "Young Mistress, you¡¯re awake?"

    "Uh... Yes." Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly and asked, "A Qi, how long have I been asleep?"

    "Two days." A Qi chuckled wryly. "If you hadn¡¯t woken up, Eldest Young Master might have called the doctor to give you nutrient infusions."

    "...That exaggerated?"

    Su Qingnuanughed at his words, her eyes glinting with amusement.

    "Not exaggerated at all..." A Qi said helplessly. "Eldest Young Master is still in the study and asked me to check on you."

    It¡¯s already evening, and he¡¯s still in the study?

    Su Qingnuan smiled. "I¡¯m fine, thank you, A Qi."

    "Young Mistress, are you hungry?" A Qi asked.

    As soon as he spoke, Su Qingnuan¡¯s stomach growled audibly.

    Embarrassed, she looked at him by the door and chuckled. "Seems like I am."

    A Qi nodded quickly. "We¡¯ve prepared food downstairs. Let me get someone to bring it up for you."

    "No need." Su Qingnuan stopped him and hurriedly said, "I can go downstairs to eat."

    She had been lying down for so long her whole body felt sore, so this was a good opportunity to move around.

    With that, she headed toward the stairs.

    A Qi followed closely behind her.

    Su Qingnuan turned back, amused by his behavior. "A Qi, why are you following me?"

    "Eldest Young Master instructed that no matter where Young Mistress goes, I should follow."

    "..."

    Is he worried she¡¯ll faint again and embarrass herself?

    Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly. "Alright, I get it."

    Seeing her smile fade slightly, A Qi looked at her, puzzled.

    "Let¡¯s go." Su Qingnuan smiled again.

    "Alright."

    Entering the kitchen, Auntie greeted Su Qingnuan with a bright smile.

    "Oh my! Young Mistress, you¡¯re awake! How are you? Feeling dizzy?"

    Perhaps because Su Qingnuan frequented the kitchen often, Auntie didn¡¯t maintain the typical formality of a servant around her.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, smiling warmly. "I¡¯m fine; after sleeping so much, I actually feel better."

    Hearing that, Auntie breathed a sigh of relief. "That¡¯s good. Are you hungry? I made you some porridge. Want some?"

    "Sure."

    Auntie nodded and eagerly went todle some porridge into a bowl.

    Simple porridge with side dishes, nothing particrly vorful.

    Yet for Su Qingnuan in her current state, it tasted exceptionally good.

    She nodded to Auntie, smiling gently. "It¡¯s delicious."

    Herplexion was still pale, but the smile brought out a quiet charm, evoking pity.

    Auntie looked at her with concern. "If it¡¯s good, have more. There¡¯s still plenty in the pot!"

    "Alright."

    Though tempted by the taste, Su Qingnuan stopped eating after a while, putting down her utensils.

    Her appetite seemed smaller after two days of not eating properly.

    After thanking Auntie, Su Qingnuan headed upstairs again.

    Passing by the study, she paused for a moment.

    Seeing her hesitation, A Qi reminded her, "Eldest Young Master doesn¡¯t know you¡¯re awake yet."

    He doesn¡¯t know yet...

    Su Qingnuan thought for a moment before turning to A Qi.

    "A Qi, do you think if I go in now, Mr. Fu will be angry?"

    A Qi¡¯s stiff expression softened slightly into a reluctant smile. "He won¡¯t be."

    After A Qi reassured her several times, Su Qingnuan finally gathered her courage and stood outside the study door.

    Taking a deep breath, she raised her hand and knocked.

    "Enter."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s distinct voice came from inside.

    Su Qingnuan opened the door quietly and cautiously.

    Fu Yihan was still seated, wearing sses, appearing rather serious.

    Carefully, Su Qingnuan spoke, testing the waters. "Mr. Fu."

    He looked up and saw her standing at the door.

    Simple loungewear, two days of illness¡ªshe looked even thinner than before.

    With a gust of wind, her clothes seemed to billow, as if the wind might carry her away at any moment.

    Fu Yihan frowned. "Why did youe out dressed so lightly?"

 Chapter 162 Together

    <h4>Chapter 162: Chapter 162 Together</h4>

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked down at herself, noticing her perfectly normal attire. "It¡¯s fine... not too cold."

    "Aqi, go fetch a coat for the young madam." Fu Yihan instructed.

    "Yes."

    "Wait!" Su Qingnuan raised her hand, wanting to stop Aqi, but the man had already dashed away.

    Her hand froze awkwardly in the air, and Su Qingnuan felt a little embarrassed.

    "Come here."

    Fu Yihan suddenly spoke.

    Su Qingnuan turned to look at him, noticing his unwavering gaze as though he was on the verge of discovering a flower blooming from her.

    Lowering her head, Su Qingnuan sluggishly moved to stand beside Fu Yihan.

    He looked at the person by his side. The weight she had gained while living at the Fu family hadpletely vanished; she¡¯d grown even thinner.

    With a soft sigh, Fu Yihan asked in a low voice, "Is your head still dizzy?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head and replied with a smile, "Not dizzy anymore. I feel quite energetic."

    She smiled, her eyebrows arched. That pitiful, cold aura hadpletely faded away.

    Fu Yihan scoffed lightly and grabbed Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand¡ªher fingers were ice-cold.

    Despite sleeping for so long, her body still hadn¡¯t warmed up. Fu Yihan frowned slightly and murmured, "Why are your hands so cold?"

    After a moment without a response, Fu Yihan raised his head to look at her.

    Su Qingnuan was staring at their intertwined hands with a face full of surprise. His action felt so natural that she began suspecting she¡¯d missed something¡ªlike their rtionship had improved without her noticing.

    But no matter how much she thought about it, she couldn¡¯t recall anything she¡¯d forgotten.

    As she regained her senses, her gaze met his half-smiling eyes.

    "What are you thinking about?" He asked casually, his lips curling into a faint smile.

    "Ah... nothing." Su Qingnuan hurriedly lowered her head. "Mr. Fu, you should keep busy. I¡¯ll take a walk outside."

    "Wait."

    Fu Yihan grabbed Su Qingnuan and furrowed his brow. "It¡¯s cold outside today. What are you going out for? Sit down."

    "....."

    No matter how cold it was outside, it had to be better than staying here, right?

    Su Qingnuan hesitated, standing still without moving.

    "Hmm?" Fu Yihan raised his brow and shot her a look.

    Not daring to talk back, Su Qingnuan quickly sat down.

    "What kind of book do you want to read?" He asked again.

    Su Qingnuan replied softly, "I¡¯m not sure. Just give me any book."

    "Alright."

    Fu Yihan wheeled himself over to the bookshelf, circled it once, and pulled out a book.

    "Try this one. It¡¯ll be helpful for your future graduation thesis."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan took the book, nced at the title, and finally broke into a smile. "Thank you, Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond, handing her a pen and some nk paper. "Write down things you don¡¯t understand."

    "Sure."

    With the book in hand, Su Qingnuan adjusted her chair, sitting close to Fu Yihan.

    Aqi returned with the coat, only to find this scene.

    The two of them sat on the same side of the desk, Fu Yihan¡¯s expression rxed with a faint trace of amusement. Beside him, Su Qingnuan stared seriously at the book with an intense look of concentration.

    Quietly, Aqi draped the coat over the chair and tactfully retreated.

    But the faint sound of thetch closing still caught Fu Yihan¡¯s attention.

    He nced up, noticing the person had left, and then turned his focus back to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan was wholly immersed in the book, despite it being a technical reference. Its depth was what Fu Yihan appreciated, prompting him to rmend it.

    Unexpectedly, she becamepletely engrossed in it.

    Watching her serious side profile, Fu Yihan unknowingly curled his lips into a smile.

    Unbeknownst to him, the way he looked at Su Qingnuan had grown tender.

    He gazed at her for quite a while before finally returning to his own work.

    ...

    The calm and tranquil atmospherested a long time, until Su Qingnuan eventually raised her head from the book and began jotting things down.

    She instinctively reached out, brushing against Fu Yihan in the process.

    "Sorry..." Su Qingnuan nervously looked at him.

    Fu Yihan raised his brow. "What? Afraid I¡¯ll scold you?"

    Being scolded might actually be preferable...

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly without saying a word.

    Understanding the subtle meaning in her eyes, Fu Yihan chuckled and shifted his body slightly to the side. "Keep writing."

    "..."

    She couldn¡¯t have imagined that, right?

    Timidly ncing at Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan lowered her voice, "Mr. Fu, are you feeling alright?"

    "Hmm?" Fu Yihan lifted his eyes, giving her a meaningful look.

    Meeting those deep, enigmatic eyes, Su Qingnuan panicked and quickly diverted her gaze.

    "No... nothing."

    Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze without saying anything further.

    Yet, Su Qingnuan¡¯s mind was in turmoil¡ªa mix of concern and a strange sense of joy.

    Sitting there, she didn¡¯t touch her pen, her thoughts wandering far away.

    Noticing her absentmindedness, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say a word, focusing on his own tasks instead.

    Time passed unknowingly until an abrupt knock on the door broke the curious tranquility.

    "Come in."

    Aqi entered, smiling at the two still seated. "The old master has returned and is asking for the young madam!"

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan immediately stood up, knocking her pen off the table, which ttered to the floor with a crisp sound.

    "...Sorry." Su Qingnuan bent down to pick up the pen.

    At the same time, Fu Yihan lowered himself as well.

    "Thunk!" They collided, and Su Qingnuan stumbled back two steps, clutching her forehead.

    Looking up, she found Fu Yihan holding his nose, mirroring her expression.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheeks turned redder. "Mr. Fu... I didn¡¯t mean to..."

    Fu Yihan rubbed his nose and sighed helplessly. "Alright, go spend time with Grandpa."

    "...Okay."

    Su Qingnuan swiftly picked up the pen, ced it back on the table, and headed out.

    Watching her retreating figure as if she were fleeing, Fu Yihan raised the corners of his mouth with a hint of helplessness.

    Why was Fu Yihan acting so peculiar these days?

    She couldn¡¯t pinpoint exactly what was strange, but it was definitely unusual.

    Carrying her doubts, Su Qingnuan slowly made her way downstairs.

    "Qingnuan!" The old master heard her footsteps, turned his head, and smiled warmly. "Is your health better now?"

    "...Grandpa." Su Qingnuan gripped the railing as she descended, her face breaking into a smile. "Grandpa, you¡¯re back! My health has improved quite a bit."

    "Oh, look at you, your face has gotten so thin!" The old master frowned at Su Qingnuan, muttering. "I¡¯ve asked Auntie to make soup for you. Be sure to eat moreter."

    "Really?" Su Qingnuan touched her face, chuckling softly. "Maybe it¡¯s because I haven¡¯t eaten much. It¡¯s not too bad, actually."

    "That won¡¯t do!" The old master disagreed firmly. "Your body is so weak; you need to take good care of yourself. Otherwise, when you¡¯re carrying a child, it¡¯ll be even harder."

    A... child?

    So the old master hadn¡¯t given up on that idea yet?

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile became awkward. "Alright, I understand."

    She stayed and chatted with the old master for a while. A delightful aroma suddenly wafted through the air, prompting Su Qingnuan to turn her head.

 Chapter 163 Supplement Soup

    <h4>Chapter 163: Chapter 163 Supplement Soup</h4>

    "Young Madam, this soup was specially made for you. Please drink while it¡¯s hot."

    Su Qingnuan looked at the old man in surprise. "Did Grandpa arrange this?"

    "Yes." The old man nodded proudly. "So, what do you think? Grandpa¡¯s arrangements are decent, right?"

    "...Yes."

    She had already eaten porridge earlier, so she didn¡¯t feel hungry at the moment.

    The fragrant aroma wafted in the air, instantly awakening Su Qingnuan¡¯s appetite.

    epting the soup bowl, Su Qingnuan began sipping it slowly.

    The old man sat next to her, watching Su Qingnuan intently. He only looked away when she finished the soup.

    "Thank you, Auntie."

    Handing the empty bowl back to the auntie, Su Qingnuan turned to the old man and smiled. "Thank you, Grandpa, too."

    "If you really want to thank me, take good care of yourself and give Grandpa a chubby grandson someday. That¡¯ll make me happy."

    Of course...

    Su Qingnuan awkwardly smiled. "We¡¯ll try our best."

    "Good, with that promise, Grandpa can rx."

    The old man gestured at the chessboard before them. "Come on, let¡¯s continue."

    "Okay."

    The old man loved ying chess.

    To please him, Su Qingnuan had picked up a few skills. Even if they ran out of topics to chat about, they could still enjoy ying chess together.

    The leisurely moments of ying chess always seemed to pass quickly.

    When the auntie came in again to call them for dinner, Su Qingnuan almost felt as though it was midnight.

    But ncing at the time, it was just six-thirty in the evening.

    Su Qingnuan stood up and looked upstairs. "I¡¯ll go call Yihan down to eat."

    "No need." The old man stopped Su Qingnuan and frowned. "You¡¯re still unwell yourself, and yet you¡¯re only worried about that boy?"

    With that, he turned his gaze to A Qi.

    A Qi understood themand and nodded before heading upstairs.

    Feeling a bit embarrassed, Su Qingnuan smiled. "Grandpa, I¡¯m really fine now. Almost fully recovered."

    "...You¡¯ve been bedridden for two days; how can a few casual words fix that?"

    "..."

    Until Fu Yihan came downstairs, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare utter a rebuttal.

    Since the old man had already spoken that much, saying anything more might irritate him. Listening quietly seemed like the better option.

    At the sound of the wheelchair¡¯s rumbling approach, Su Qingnuan immediately felt a sense of relief and actively walked over.

    Seeing the smile blooming on Su Qingnuan¡¯s face, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "Grandpa, what did you say this time?"

    "What do you mean, ¡¯what did I say¡¯?!" The old man replied grumpily. "You punk, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve talked bad about me in front of Yue Rou more than once, haven¡¯t you?"

    "Do I dare?" Fu Yihan sneered. "Whereas you, Grandpa, definitely haven¡¯t spared me from a few choice words."

    "..." The old man coughed awkwardly and muttered under his breath, "Why would I badmouth you, rascal? You¡¯re imagining things."

    "Oh really?"

    Facing Fu Yihan¡¯s half-smiling but sharp gaze, the old man quickly said, "I won¡¯t chat nonsense with you, brat. Hurry up, let¡¯s eat."

    "Yes! Let¡¯s eat!" Su Qingnuan chimed in, trying to diffuse the tension with a smile. "Let¡¯s go eat."

    The three of them had just taken their seats when another person walked in.

    "Well, well!" Fu Yixing said with a faint smile. "The gathering looks prettyplete today."

    His gaze fell on Su Qingnuan, his tone carrying a hint of teasing. "Sister-inw, I heard you¡¯ve been down with a cold and fever for a few days. Are you feeling better now?"

    Su Qingnuan calmly nodded. "I¡¯m fine now."

    "It¡¯s good that you¡¯re fine." Fu Yixing pulled out a chair and sat down casually. "Actually, I have a favor to ask of you, Sister-inw."

    Su Qingnuan blinked in surprise and looked at him curiously. "What kind of favor?"

    "You know, it¡¯s only two or three months until the New Year. Ourpany¡¯s annual g ising up, and I¡¯d like to ask you to perform something. I¡¯ve already chosen the program¡ªjust y the piano, that piece you¡¯re best at!"

    "tter¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan stared in shock at the pair of chopsticks falling on the table and froze.

    Fu Yihan nced at her and said in a low voice, "Is anyone bringing new chopsticks for the Young Madam?"

    The fallen chopsticks were picked up, while Su Qingnuan nervously clutched the hem of her clothes.

    "Sister-inw, how could you be so careless?" Fu Yixing said mockingly, his tone still full of sarcasm. "Could it be that you¡¯re trying to refuse my favor?"

    Su Qingnuan suddenly looked up, her irritated re fixed on Fu Yixing.

    Fu Yixing raised his eyebrows. "Everyone knows my older brother is married, but until now nobody¡¯s even seen what our sister-inw looks like. Sister-inw, don¡¯t you find it awkward to step into thepany and have people unaware that you¡¯re the Young Madam of the Fu family?"

    What does this have to do with her?

    Su Qingnuan was about to question him when the person beside her spoke first.

    "The woman I married¡ªit¡¯s enough that I know her. Why should anyone else care?"

    Fu Yihan ced down his chopsticks, his expression cold as he stared at Fu Yixing.

    Faced with that icy gaze, Fu Yixing hesitated for a moment but quickly continued. "Brother, that¡¯s not exactly the right way to put it. Our family¡¯s Young Madam needs to represent us in certain circles. Grandpa, don¡¯t you agree?"

    Dragged unexpectedly into the discussion, the old man paused and then nodded. "Yixing isn¡¯t wrong this time. The daughter-inw of the Fu family does need to show up to events. Besides, Yue Rou ys the piano beautifully; showcasing it would also bring honor to our family¡ªthere¡¯s nothing wrong with it."

    "But Grandpa..." Su Qingnuan hesitated. "I haven¡¯t yed the piano in a long time."

    "For someone as skilled as Sister-inw, isn¡¯t a little practice all you need? There are still three months to prepare!" Fu Yixing said with a cunning smile.

    This sly troublemaker clearly had ulterior motives.

    Su Qingnuan shot him a quick re, her brows furrowing tightly.

    "Grandpa, Yue Rou isn¡¯t going."

    The icy wordspletely froze the atmosphere at the dinner table.

    Su Qingnuan turned her head, staring at Fu Yihan in astonishment.

    He calmly continued eating, as if that disruptive deration hadn¡¯te from him.

    "Why not?" The old man frowned. "Yue Rou hasn¡¯t said anything yet! She might agree, don¡¯t you think?"

    "Ha!"

    Fu Yihan sneered and put down his chopsticks, raising his sharp gaze towards them. "I said she doesn¡¯t want to, so she doesn¡¯t want to."

    "...Brother, isn¡¯t this decision too dictatorial? Sister-inw has her own opinion..."

    "I said no."

    Fu Yihan cut Fu Yixing off, giving the table a quick cold nce. "If you want to finish this dinner peacefully, then stay quiet."

    "..."

    His imposing presence was so overwhelming that, for a moment, no one dared speak.

    Su Qingnuan cautiously picked up her chopsticks, sneaking nces at Fu Yihan.

    He exuded an aura of chill¡ªlike the frozen depths of winter. Approaching him meant enduring the piercing pain of the cold.

    Even gazing at his profile was like trying to see beyond a frosty abyss.

    Suddenly, he turned his head and locked eyes with Su Qingnuan.

    She quickly averted her gaze, burying herself in her meal and keeping her head lowered.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, reached for a piece of braised pork, and ced it into Su Qingnuan¡¯s bowl.

    "Make up for the meat you missed these past few days."

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, quietly lifting her head to nce at him.

    As her gaze met his, she realized he was staring at her¡ªthe corners of his mouth lifted ever so slightly in amusement.

    What¡¯s going on...

    Wasn¡¯t he supposed to be very angry?

 Chapter 164 I Want That Thing

    <h4>Chapter 164: Chapter 164 I Want That Thing</h4>

    Faced with Fu Yihan¡¯s sudden smile, Su Qingnuan was overwhelmed with panic and quickly averted her gaze.

    What¡¯s wrong with Fu Yihan? Could it be something unclean possessing him?

    "Why are you staring at me instead of eating?" he raised an eyebrow and asked.

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan hurriedly looked away, lowering her head in embarrassment. "N-nothing."

    "Hurry up and eat. After you¡¯re done,e back to the room with me. You still haven¡¯t finished what I assigned you to do."

    "...Alright." Su Qingnuan nodded quickly, forcing a smile. "I¡¯ll finish in just a moment."

    With that, she quickly ate the dish Fu Yihan had ced on her te, then stood up and began to push his wheelchair toward the stairs.

    "Hey!" Fu Yixing stood up, staring at their retreating figures in disbelief. He turned to the old man with an usatory look. "Grandpa!"

    The old man lowered his head, concentrating on his meal.

    "Eat your food. Don¡¯t talk about other matters."

    "...You¡¯re so biased toward him!"

    With that, Fu Yixing spun around and left.

    Listening to the sound of footsteps fading away, the old man finally raised his head and stared in the direction Fu Yixing had gone, his face etched with helplessness.

    Kids these days just can¡¯t keep their cool...

    With a silent sigh, the old man leaned on his cane and stood, slowly walking toward the door.

    He¡¯s getting old¡ªthere are many things he can¡¯t concern himself with anymore.

    Outside, the beautiful scenery awaited him, calling for this elderly man toe and enjoy it!

    With this thought, the old man¡¯s smile grew increasingly genuine.

    ...

    Back in the room, Su Qingnuan suddenly asked, "Did you take your medicine?"

    "Huh?" Fu Yihan responded, puzzled. "What medicine?"

    "..."

    Turning to look, Su Qingnuan saw his utterly clueless expression.

    Fu Yihan frowned and pointed at the basket on the table. "The medicine¡¯s in there. Take it."

    "..."

    Saying nothing, Su Qingnuan obediently walked to the basket. However, as soon as she saw what was inside, her brows furrowed.

    "Mr. Fu, my cold is almost better."

    "¡¯Almost¡¯ is as good as not better yet. Take it."

    Amanding tone apanied by an overbearing attitude.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but think about his behavior at the dinner table earlier.

    Sure enough, a man raised in a wealthy household loses his temper over the smallest disagreements.

    Taking medicine wasn¡¯t a big deal, and Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t want to go against Fu Yihan, so she obediently swallowed the pills.

    The bitter aftertaste, though, was beyond words.

    After finishing, Su Qingnuan cautiously looked at Fu Yihan. "Mr. Fu, is there anything else I need to do?"

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t reply and instead pushed his wheelchair further into the room.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan quickly followed along.

    Once they were inside the bedroom, Fu Yihan tilted his chin slightly. "Lie down."

    "...Me?" Su Qingnuan pointed to herself in disbelief, her eyes widening with confusion.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and asked in return, "Who else?"

    "...But I just finished eating."

    Fu Yihan frowned, silently staring at her.

    "...Alright, I understand."

    After washing up in the adjacent bathroom, Su Qingnuan hesitantly climbed onto the bed andy down.

    Fu Yihan remained in the room, seated at his desk, typing away on his keyboard. It was unclear what he was working on.

    Noticing he wasn¡¯t paying her any attention, Su Qingnuan cautiously pulled out her phone.

    The soft glow of the screen illuminated her face, prompting her to quickly turn away from Fu Yihan, using her body to block the light.

    Her phone had just finished charging, and upon powering it on, a flood of messages appeared.

    Fortunately, she had anticipated this and muted the sound earlier, so no notifications made any noise.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Qingnuan, where are you? Disappeared again?

    Gu Xiaoxiao: If you don¡¯t show up soon, I¡¯m going to call the police!

    ...

    The most recent message had been sent today.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Why didn¡¯t you tell me you were sick? Rest well and don¡¯t worry about work.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile. True friends never let you down.

    Delicately, she responded to Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s message.

    As soon as her message was sent, a reply came almost immediately.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: How are you feeling right now? Where are you? At the hospital or at home? Want me to visit you?

    A string of questions reflected Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s obvious concern.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile deepened, and she replied lightheartedly.

    Su Qingnuan: It¡¯s just a regr cold. A couple of days of rest, and I¡¯ll be fine. Don¡¯t worry.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Seriously, disappearing without a word? Do you have any idea how worried I was?

    Su Qingnuan: I know, I know! I¡¯m sorry for making you worry!

    She added a cute sticker for good measure.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: So, how are you doing now? I¡¯ve already notified thepany about your leave.

    Su Qingnuan: Much better. Don¡¯t worry¡ªmaybe I¡¯ll even be back at work tomorrow.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Alright, but make sure to rest well.

    Su Qingnuan: I¡¯ve been sleeping too much. Now I can¡¯t fall asleep.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Insomnia? Perfect timing¡ªI¡¯ll send you something fun to look at.

    Momentster, the chat filled with images.

    The vivid reds and purples were instantly eye-catching.

    Su Qingnuan carefully examined the first image and couldn¡¯t help marveling as she scrolled through the rest.

    Su Qingnuan: Did you draw this?

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Who else? Looks like them, doesn¡¯t it?

    Su Qingnuan: It really does.

    Gu Xiaoxiao had sent five cartoon-style portraits in total.

    The first two were solo drawings, but the rest featured couples.

    One particr picture depicted two figures in red clothes, intimately leaning against each other, their smiles wide and warm.

    These two figures bore an uncanny resemnce to Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: I specifically made this for you two. Since I couldn¡¯t attend the wedding, consider this my gift. Hope you don¡¯t mind?

    "....."

    A wedding gift?

    They were already heading for a divorce; a wedding gift now seemed ironic...

    Sighing, Su Qingnuan typed her response.

    Su Qingnuan: It¡¯s great. It¡¯s the thought that counts.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Great! Show it to your Mr. Fu when you can and let me know his reaction.

    Su Qingnuan: ...Okay.

    She could already imagine how angry Fu Yihan would be if he saw these pictures.

    Quietly saving the images, Su Qingnuan was just about to set her phone down when¡ª

    "Cough¡ª"

    Her hand froze mid-air, her posture stiff and unmoving.

    "What are you doing?"

    A deep voice broke the silence, leaving Su Qingnuan holding her breath, eyes wide open.

    Suddenly, fresh air filled the room, and the light brightened.

    Su Qingnuan blinked and met a pair of amused eyes.

    "What are you doing?" he repeated, his tone yful.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head. "N-nothing!"

    "Nothing?" Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes narrowed, his sharp gaze falling on her hands. "I told you to sleep, and here you are ying with your phone?"

    "....." Su Qingnuan chuckled awkwardly and quickly hid her phone under the nket. "I couldn¡¯t sleep, so I just yed for a bit."

    "Who were you chatting with?" he pressed further.

    Chatting? He even knew that? Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment.

    Her clear gaze betrayed her thoughts, and it seemed that in her eyes, all Fu Yihan could see was "confusion" written in bold letters.

 Chapter 165 What Happened?

    <h4>Chapter 165: Chapter 165 What Happened?</h4>

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, looking at her with a half-smile: "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly and quickly said, "I¡¯m just ying for a while. I¡¯m actually getting ready to rest now."

    "Even ying for a while won¡¯t do." Fu Yihan extended his hand, "Give me your phone."

    His attitude was firm, his expression icy.

    Su Qingnuan was quite convinced that if she didn¡¯t give it to him now, he would snatch it forcefully.

    Gazing longingly at her phone, Su Qingnuan sighed deeply: "Really can¡¯t?"

    "No, you can¡¯t."

    "..."

    The process of handing over the phone, without even needing slow motion, was already very slow.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t rush her, sitting there quietly, waiting until Su Qingnuan¡¯s phonended in his hand.

    Grasping the phone swiftly, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow: "Lie down and rest."

    "...Oh."

    Su Qingnuany down. Without her phone, she initially felt uneasy, ncing back repeatedly.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yihan ced her phone on the desk and began doing his own thing, seemingly not focused on her.

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly and suddenly sat up.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan raised his eyelids, asking indifferently.

    "...Nothing." Su Qingnuany back down.

    No matter what she wanted to say, upon seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s face, Su Qingnuan found herself speechless.

    Too stern, and... quite intimidating.

    Su Qingnuan closed her eyes and said seriously, "I¡¯m sleeping now."

    Her words sounded like a small protest, causing a slight smile at the corner of Fu Yihan¡¯s mouth.

    No more speaking, the room instantly grew silent.

    Su Qingnuan listened to the sound of a pen scratching on paper, and her mind drifted, momentarily unsure of her surroundings.

    Gradually, as she lost consciousness, Su Qingnuan fell into a deep sleep.

    As the steady breathing came, Fu Yihan stopped what he was doing.

    Moving to the bedside, he gazed at Su Qingnuan¡¯s sleeping form, his eyes filled with a gentle smile as he watched her for a long time.

    This little girl was very quiet when she slept, curling herself up into a ball.

    Fu Yihan raised his hand and adjusted her position before turning back to the desk.

    His gaze fell on the phone not far away, which was originally quiet and suddenly shed twice, lighting up the screen.

    The faint light reflected in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes.

    His deep eyes flickered slightly with the shing light.

    The bright chat window on the phone screen came into view, and the cute emojis and yful text fell into his eyes without missing a beat.

    After a while, the light dimmed again.

    Unhurriedly, Fu Yihan retracted his gaze, his eyes carrying a faint smile.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan slept through the night, waking up at daybreak feeling refreshed.

    The fatigue she previously felt vanished without a trace.

    "Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan tentatively asked the person sitting beside her, "I¡¯m pretty much recovered. Can I go to thepany today?"

    Fu Yihan hummed softly, not speaking further.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare to ask again, instead fixing her clear gaze on him without blinking.

    After a long while, Fu Yihan looked up and nced at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan quickly sat upright, looking at him expectantly: "Can I?"

    "You want to go to thepany?" Fu Yihan asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded eagerly: "Yes, I do!"

    Having rested at home for a few days, she really couldn¡¯t justify not going back to work.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t want others to think she only got into thepany through connections.

    Seeing her anticipation, Fu Yihan reluctantly nodded: "Alright, you can go."

    "Thank you, Mr. Fu!"

    Su Qingnuan stood up and hurried upstairs.

    Watching her cheerful figure disappear, Fu Yihan turned sideways: "Go prepare to send the young mistress to thepany."

    "Yes."

    Once Su Qingnuan had packed and came downstairs with her bag, she found A Qi waiting in the living room.

    Su Qingnuan jogged over and smiled: "A Qi, thanks for your hard work today too."

    A Qi smiled and shook his head: "You¡¯re too kind, young mistress. It¡¯s my duty."

    Leaving the vi, Su Qingnuan noticed the car parked in the yard had its back door open.

    Pausing slightly, she looked at A Qi in confusion: "Is Mr. Fu going too?"

    "Yes."

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t think much of it and got into the car directly.

    Fu Yihan was gazing out the window. Noticing the car¡¯s movement, he turned his head.

    Seeing his gaze, Su Qingnuan gave a slight smile: "Mr. Fu."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan responded nonchntly: "Anything else?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled sheepishly and asked: "Xiaoxiao said you took leave for me, how many days did you get?"

    "A week."

    Wow, a whole week off. It¡¯s fortunate it was Fu Yihan who asked for it; if it had been someone else, they might be standing on the brink of being fired.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile froze. She eyed Fu Yihan, half-doubting, trying to detect any hint of insincerity in his expression.

    Yet Fu Yihan remained unflustered, calmly meeting Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze.

    "What? Don¡¯t believe?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and asked.

    "No... not that." Su Qingnuan said helplessly: "It¡¯s just that a week seems a bit too long...."

    "Not too long." Fu Yihan said casually, "Thepany doesn¡¯t miss you as an intern."

    That might be true, but it¡¯s a little hurtful to hear it said out loud.

    Su Qingnuan decided not to find trouble with Fu Yihan and chose not to ask further.

    When the car stopped at thepany entrance, Su Qingnuan gazed at the towering skyscrapers ahead and felt momentarily dazed, yet familiar.

    Although she hadn¡¯t been here for three days, it felt like ages to Su Qingnuan.

    With a faint smile, Su Qingnuan turned around to greet Fu Yihan and then ran towards thepany.

    Skirting around the crowd, Su Qingnuan quietly appeared in the office.

    At this moment, the office was almost empty, likely due to a meeting.

    Su Qingnuan stepped lightly to her workstation and, sure enough, saw a stack of items on the once-clean desk.

    Even when on leave, work doesn¡¯t take a break.

    The tasks she had toplete still awaited her.

    Su Qingnuan sat up and picked up a document from the towering stack.

    Her and Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s main tasks now were familiarising themselves with the business processes and following some of thepany¡¯s current projects.

    Even with such simple tasks, it still took considerable time.

    For instance, whaty on her desk was the processes of the past few days that she needed to familiarize herself with. If she could spot any shorings, it would be a bonus.

    If not, familiarization was still required.

    As she was focusing on the documents, a suddenmotion caught her attention.

    Su Qingnuan looked up to see a group of people bustling into the office, chatting andughing.

    Once inside, they dispersed to their respective spots.

    asionally, someone would acknowledge Su Qingnuan politely.

    Only Gu Xiaoxiao ran over excitedly upon seeing her.

 Chapter 166 Something Big Happened.

    <h4>Chapter 166: Chapter 166 Something Big Happened.</h4>

    "Why are you here?" Gu Xiaoxiao leaned on her and asked in a low voice, "Weren¡¯t you sick? Why not rest a few more days?"

    "We¡¯re interns." Su Qingnuan reluctantly pushed Gu Xiaoxiao away and said seriously, "Do you think I really don¡¯t want this job if an intern takes leave for so long?"

    "That¡¯s true." Gu Xiaoxiao nodded in agreement, smiling lightly, "Okay, if you feel fine,ing in early is fine too."

    "Almost recovered."

    Su Qingnuan watched as people kept pouring into the room and asked curiously, "What¡¯s going on? What was said in the meeting?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao pouted, "Just the usual stuff, asking us to do a thorough check. I heard there¡¯s an issue with the project, and Manager Huang is investigating it thoroughly!"

    "There¡¯s an issue with the project?" Su Qingnuan asked in surprise.

    "Yeah." Gu Xiaoxiao nodded, whispering into Su Qingnuan¡¯s ear, "I heard from someone else that on the day you got sick, wasn¡¯t Manager Huang frequentlying to our office? Apparently, it was because of that project issue."

    "..."

    She thought Manager Huang wasing down to inspect their work, but it turned out he had a different agenda.

    Suddenly, a familiar figure appeared at the door. Su Qingnuan nudged Gu Xiaoxiao with her elbow and whispered, "Manager Huang is here."

    Upon hearing this, Gu Xiaoxiao turned around and returned to her seat.

    The bustling office suddenly fell silent.

    Everyone, under Manager Huang¡¯s gaze, buried their heads in work.

    Su Qingnuan was no exception.

    She listened as the footsteps gradually approached and couldn¡¯t help but feel tense.

    "Su Qingnuan."

    A familiar voice sounded, and Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly.

    "Yes, Manager Huang." Su Qingnuan stood up and looked at Manager Huang with a light smile.

    Manager Huang looked Su Qingnuan up and down and asked puzzledly, "Are you better now?"

    "Almost." Su Qingnuan kept her smile, "I just need to take medicine now."

    There was a bit of hoarseness in her voice, and she spoke in a muffled tone, which was particrly noticeable.

    "If you¡¯re not feeling well, you need to be more careful." Manager Huang said with earnest concern.

    Su Qingnuan nodded quickly, "Okay."

    "Hmm." Manager Huang turned around, nced around, and then looked back at Su Qingnuan, "Come on, let¡¯s go to the office."

    Huh? To the office again?

    Under everyone¡¯s attention, Su Qingnuan once again followed Manager Huang to the office.

    This time there was no one else in Manager Huang¡¯s office. He sat in front of his desk, looking seriously at Su Qingnuan.

    "Qingnuan, you¡¯ve been with ourpany for almost a month now, right?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s heart skipped a beat at this familiar opening line, could it be that she was about to be fired?

    Forcing a smile, Su Qingnuan replied, "Yes, Manager Huang."

    "A month... It¡¯s not a short time." Manager Huang gently tapped the desk with his right hand, his expression thoughtful.

    A month... it¡¯s actually quite short...

    Su Qingnuan watched him nervously, fearing that his next words would lead to her leaving thepany.

    Manager Huang, who had been pondering for a long time, raised his head and saw Su Qingnuan looking at him pitifully.

    Manager Huang was slightly taken aback and asked with confusion, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Retracting her gaze, Su Qingnuan masked the guilt in her eyes, "No... I just wondered if there was something you wanted to discuss with me, Manager Huang?"

    "Hmm...there is something." Manager Huang looked at her meaningfully and said with a slight smile, "While you were resting at home these past few days, you might not know, but one of ourpany¡¯s projects had a problem. Important data from the project was leaked by an internal employee."

    ..... There was another reason behind this?

    Su Qingnuan looked up nervously at Manager Huang, "Has that person been found?"

    "Yes, but this person has been with ourpany for quite some time, and if he¡¯s dismissed, it would be hard to find someone to rece him quickly."

    Su Qingnuan was not foolish, given what was said and Manager Huang¡¯s thoughtful expression, she naturally understood what he meant.

    She had a clear understanding of her capabilities.

    Even if thrown into the mix here, she was no worse than those veteran employees, but she still had much to learn.

    Cautiously, Su Qingnuan said, "I¡¯ve only been with thepany for a month; there¡¯s a lot I need to learn, and without certain qualifications, it might be hard to convince everyone."

    "Yes." Manager Huang sighed, "It¡¯s exactly as you said, but for now, you¡¯re the most suitable candidate."

    Su Qingnuan said nothing, keeping her head down.

    The atmosphere instantly grew cold. Manager Huang looked at the back of her head, paused for a moment, and then said, "We don¡¯t need to rush to a decision on this matter; perhaps you can go back and ask Mr. Fu for his opinion."

    Mr. Fu?

    Su Qingnuan was taken aback, looking at Manager Huang in surprise.

    "What? Are you not nning to discuss this with Mr. Fu?" Manager Huang asked.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated and said, "Manager Huang, I have an unreasonable request. Please don¡¯t inform Mr. Fu about this matter."

    Manager Huang was slightly stunned, asking with doubt, "Why?"

    Su Qingnuan clenched her clothes tightly,ughing bitterly, "If Mr. Fu knew, I can imagine the oue, but I haven¡¯t made up my mind yet."

    "....."

    Manager Huang was silent for a while, and under Su Qingnuan¡¯s expectant gaze, he slowly nodded, "Alright then, consider this matter carefully, and tell me when you have a decision."

    "Thank you, Manager Huang."

    Coming out of Manager Huang¡¯s office, Su Qingnuan heaved a heavy sigh of relief.

    After her conversation with Manager Huang, it was already noon. When Su Qingnuan returned to the office, there were only a few people left inside.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was sitting at Su Qingnuan¡¯s desk. Seeing her, she waved with a smile.

    "Qingnuan, pack your things quickly. Let¡¯s go for lunch."

    Su Qingnuan nodded with a light smile, packed her things, and followed Gu Xiaoxiao out.

    "Did Manager Huang give you a hard time?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked in a low voice.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, bitterly repeating what had just happened.

    Upon hearing this, Gu Xiaoxiao looked at her with surprise, "Why didn¡¯t you agree to such a good thing?"

    ".....I¡¯ve only been with thepany for a month, and I haven¡¯t even been confirmed. If I just go up like this, I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to...."

    "Afraid of what?" Gu Xiaoxiao nced at the surrounding people having lunch, lowered her voice again, "I¡¯m telling you, from what I¡¯ve observed these past few days, there really aren¡¯t many people in our department who are more capable than you. You truly deserve to sit in that position!"

    ".....That¡¯s because you¡¯re my friend, so you support me no matter what. But there are dozens of people in our department. How could everyone have the same opinion as you?" Su Qingnuan said helplessly, "If I really sat in that position, that might be when the trouble begins."

    "No way." Gu Xiaoxiao frowned, "Aren¡¯t people in our department all about meritocracy?"

 Chapter 167: Strength

    <h4>Chapter 167: Chapter 167: Strength</h4>

    "They¡¯re saying it in a rather roundabout way..." Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly paused, then bent down to whisper in Su Qingnuan¡¯s ear, "I heard the department head ns to promote Jiang Yuan."

    "Jiang Yuan?"

    Although the two of them had only been here for a short time, they had heard of the name Jiang Yuan.

    The department¡¯s beauty, bright and cheerful personality, bold and generous nature¡ªmentioning her often brought an envious look to people¡¯s faces.

    Her good personality, solid family background, and considerate nature made people admire her rather than resent her.

    But Su Qingnuan had only heard about her and had never actually met her.

    "Jiang Yuan isn¡¯t part of our department, is she?" Su Qingnuan asked with some confusion.

    Even though she stayed in their department, she wasn¡¯t officially part of it and was brought in temporarily.

    "She¡¯s not." Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s voice grew softer as she chuckled lightly, "Isn¡¯t someone thinking of using this opportunity to officially bring Jiang Yuan into the department?"

    The ¡¯someone¡¯ was worth pondering.

    Su Qingnuan nodded vaguely, amused, "I still need some time to think about this. Let¡¯s not worry about what they say. We just need to focus on doing our own work well."

    "Fine, you take your time thinking. I do think it¡¯s a great opportunity anyway."

    "Mm."

    Gu Xiaoxiao returned to her desk, while Su Qingnuan leaned against her chair with a hint of contemtion. Although Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s words were somewhat blunt, there was really nothing wrong with them.

    If Su Qingnuan could use this opportunity to learn more, it would always be useful to find work no matter where she went in the future.

    But if she were to be promoted, it might be difficult to earn others¡¯ respect.

    After all, work isn¡¯t something one canplete alone¡ªit requires teamwork.

    After thinking it through for a while, Su Qingnuan still hadn¡¯t made up her mind, yet it was already time to leave work.

    Forget it. She¡¯d deal with itter at home.

    Knowing Ah Qi would definitely be waiting downstairs, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t linger.

    The two parted ways at thepany entrance as usual. Across the road, Su Qingnuan found the familiar car at its usual spot.

    She carried her bag and was about to jog over.

    "Su Qingnuan?"

    She stopped in her tracks and turned around.

    A woman in a long green dress was looking at her with an expression of curiosity.

    She held a work badge in her hand and kept sizing up Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan looked down at the badge hanging on her chest¡ªit still had the outer casing, but the badge inside was missing.

    "Ah!" Su Qingnuan eximed hastily, "It¡¯s me! It¡¯s me!"

    She ran back, grateful as she looked at the woman. "Thank you! I didn¡¯t even realize where I dropped it."

    The woman handed her the badge and smiled softly. "It was at thepany entrance. I called you several times, but you didn¡¯t hear me, so I chased after you."

    "...I see." Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly. "Sorry about that, there were so many people earlier, I didn¡¯t hear you."

    The woman chuckled lightly. "No worries, as long as you didn¡¯t lose it."

    "Yes, yes."

    She ced the badge back in its casing and looked up again, noticing the woman across from her was still studying her.

    Su Qingnuan asked hesitantly, "Excuse me, may I ask who you are...?"

    The woman gave a mysterious smile and waved her hand. "I have something to do, so I¡¯ll take my leave now."

    With that, she turned and left.

    Watching her depart so gracefully, the man next to her couldn¡¯t help but feel moved.

    Sure enough, there are still many beautiful and kind-hearted people in this world.

    Once inside the car, Su Qingnuan looked down at her badge again, checked that it was safe, and said, "Ah Qi, I¡¯m ready. Let¡¯s go."

    "Alright."

    They returned home peacefully, where Su Qingnuan walked through the rooms but didn¡¯t see Fu Yihan¡¯s figure anywhere.

    "Ah Qi, isn¡¯t Mr. Fu home?" Su Qingnuan asked the man who had followed her in.

    Ah Qi shook his head. "The Eldest Young Master is still at thepany. He asked me to bring you home first."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan turned back in surprise. "He went to thepany today? Then why didn¡¯t we wait for him toe back together?"

    Before Ah Qi could answer, the phone suddenly rang.

    He paused, turned around to take the call, and didn¡¯t address Su Qingnuan¡¯s question.

    Watching Ah Qi busy with the call, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t press him further.

    She put down her bag and walked into one of the rooms.

    The room had been newly remodeled¡ªit was now a small study.

    Su Qingnuan walked around the space. Her belongings were still ced in the same spots, with a few new additions here and there.

    She sat down and opened a drawer.

    Inside were several kneepads she had made herself, all unused.

    Thinking back, she had given Fu Yihan a new set of kneepads a while ago. Quite some time had passed since then¡ªshe wondered how his legs were doing.

    Taking out one of the kneepads, Su Qingnuan decided to make another one for him tonight.

    However, she waited all evening and still didn¡¯t see Fu Yihan return.

    Before going to bed, she specifically found Ah Qi and asked when Fu Yihan mighte back, but Ah Qi didn¡¯t give her a definitive answer.

    "Probably soon."

    That was Ah Qi¡¯s original reply, and given his straightforward nature, Su Qingnuan guessed even he wasn¡¯t sure.

    Deep into the night, Su Qingnuan woke once. The space beside her was empty.

    Where had he gone?

    Ever since Su Qingnuan had moved into the Fu family¡¯s home, she had never seen Fu Yihan stay outte and note back.

    Could something have happened at thepany?

    But it didn¡¯t make sense...

    Lost in her thoughts, Su Qingnuan drifted off to sleep again.

    ...

    The sky was still dim and gray when Su Qingnuan woke up.

    She stared at the empty bed beside her for a moment, then got up and began washing up.

    The person in the mirror wore an expression of doubt. Without any clear thoughts, she brushed her teeth mechanically and changed her clothes without emotion. Then, she headed out.

    The living room was empty except for the sound of pots and pansing from the kitchen¡ªit seemed the housekeeper was preparing breakfast.

    Su Qingnuan poked her head into the kitchen and smiled. "Auntie, what¡¯s on the menu this morning?"

    "Oh my, is the Eldest Young Madam awake so early?" The housekeeper turned back with a surprised look, revealing a steamer behind her as she smiled. "Steamed buns for breakfast."

    "Buns, huh?" Su Qingnuan sniffed the air and grinned. "Can I pack a few to go?"

    "Of course!"

    The housekeeper quickly brought out a food container and packed some buns ording to Su Qingnuan¡¯s request before handing them to her.

    Knowing Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t eat at home, she even prepared some congee.

    Feeling pleased, Su Qingnuan carried her breakfast and sent a message to Gu Xiaoxiao before heading out.

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t know Su Qingnuan would leave so early, so he wasn¡¯t waiting outside.

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t in a hurry. She left the vi and strolled leisurely along the empty street.

    Morning air always felt fresh after a night¡¯s rest, and as Su Qingnuan breathed it in, she felt invigorated.

    After a bit of walking, she began to feel tired.

    She panted lightly, looked at the increasing flow of vehicles, and finally sent Ah Qi a message. Then, she hailed a taxi and headed for the office.

    When she arrived at thepany, it was only 8:00 a.m. The official start time was 9:00 a.m., meaning she was an hour early.

    The cleaning staff looked at Su Qingnuan with surprise.

    "Why are you here so early?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled politely and nodded. "Yes! Thank you for your hard work."

    The cleaner smiled, then returned to her tasks.

    Not long after Su Qingnuan arrived, her phone rang. It was Gu Xiaoxiao asking where she was.

 Chapter 168: The New Colleague

    <h4>Chapter 168: Chapter 168: The New Colleague</h4>

    Su Qingnuan mentioned the tea room, and then she heard the sound of the door opening behind her.

    "Hmm?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "How did you get here so quickly?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao rubbed her eyes as she walked in, sighing helplessly, "Didn¡¯t I just get your call and learn you were bringing me breakfast? So I rushed over quickly."

    "Perfect timing." Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly, "Come over and eat first."

    "Alright."

    Gu Xiaoxiao sat down and watched Su Qingnuan bustling around, remarking emotionally, "It¡¯s been ages since we had breakfast together like this."

    Her arm paused slightly, and after a while, Su Qingnuan smiled faintly, "You¡¯re not a little kid anymore. Are you still trying to cling on to me?"

    "Of course not." Gu Xiaoxiao held her face in both hands and sighed helplessly, "I just feel like living alone in the dorm is awfully lonely."

    ".....Didn¡¯t the school assign you a roommate?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head, "No."

    "What about our ssmates? Didn¡¯t anyone ask you to hang out?" Su Qingnuan continued to ask.

    Gu Xiaoxiao sighed, "Don¡¯t even mention it. Ever since we started interning here, no one from our ss bothers with me anymore. I know they¡¯re just jealous and envious!"

    Well, at least she has an open mind.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled softly and ced the bowl of porridge in front of Gu Xiaoxiao, "Since you know they¡¯re jealous and envious, why bother worrying about it? Come on, stop fretting and eat."

    "...I know you¡¯re right, but it still stings a little."

    "Alright, alright, eat something, and you¡¯ll feel better."

    Taking the bun Su Qingnuan handed over, Gu Xiaoxiao let out a long breath, "Look at this; even my favorite bun can¡¯t pique my interest anymore."

    With that, she took a fierce bite.

    Watching her aggrieved expression, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help butugh.

    The two quietly ate their food in the tea room.

    Listening to Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯sints about dorm life, Su Qingnuan¡¯s thoughts unexpectedly drifted back to their days at school.

    "Bang¡ª"

    A sudden loud noise interrupted their conversation.

    Both turned around at the same time to look at the door.

    The trembling door slowly opened from the outside.

    A woman in a petite zer stepped inside.

    Meeting the gaze of the two, the woman paused for a moment before quickly recovering and saying with a smile, "Sorry, I didn¡¯t realize there was someone inside."

    "It¡¯s okay!" Su Qingnuan immediately put down her chopsticks and stood up, "We¡¯re done eating. Feel free toe in."

    The woman nced at her briefly, nodded slightly, and walked further in.

    Gu Xiaoxiao hurriedly swallowed the rest of the bun and went to open all the windows.

    "There¡¯s still half an hour before work starts; the smell should dissipate by then," Gu Xiaoxiao muttered.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and started packing up the container, mindful to bring it backter.

    As she packed, the woman by the table suddenly stopped walking and stared intently at the box in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    Noticing her focused gaze, Su Qingnuan asked, puzzled, "Hello? Is there a problem?"

    The woman nced at her and chuckled, "You¡¯re using this box for food?"

    "...Yes," Su Qingnuan said, looking at the box in her hands and smiling, "This box is something my family uses. I¡¯m not sure where it was bought, but if you¡¯re interested, I could ask them..."

    "No need." The woman interrupted her, smiling meaningfully, "It¡¯s just a bit extravagant, that¡¯s all. A genuine red sandalwood food container like this, you¡¯d rarely find one so intact in the market nowadays."

    "....."

    As the woman left, Gu Xiaoxiao turned her head and studied the box in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand.

    Su Qingnuan also set the box down on the table and examined it carefully.

    "Do you see anything special about it?" Su Qingnuan asked.

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head, pondering, "I can¡¯t tell."

    "...Neither can I."

    Although they couldn¡¯t figure out its value, based on the woman¡¯s gaze earlier, it was likely quite expensive.

    "That¡¯s so typical of the Fu family¡ªusing red sandalwood even for food containers," Gu Xiaoxiao said with amazement.

    Hearing her teasing tone, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help butugh, "Then I¡¯d better hurry up and put it away, or if someone else recognizes it, I won¡¯t know how to exin."

    "Exactly."

    Under Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s urging, Su Qingnuan packed up the box and returned to her seat.

    As they sat down, people gradually began arriving in the office.

    Someone went to the tea room and came out with a puzzled look, muttering loud enough to be overheard.

    "Why does the tea room smell like buns?"

    "Probably someone eating in there. What¡¯s the big deal? Move along; you still haven¡¯t finished yesterday¡¯s work."

    "True...."

    The culprits, Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao, lowered their heads and pretended to know nothing.

    By the time work officially started, the office had mostly filled up, with everyone focusing on their own tasks.

    At that moment, the department head entered the office apanied by someone.

    "p p p¡ª"

    The sound of pping rang out, and everyone turned toward the department head.

    "Put aside your work for a moment and listen up," said the department head, pointing to the beautiful woman beside him with a smile, "Thisdy here is officially joining us. Meet Jiang Yuan. Everyone, make sure to get acquainted."

    Jiang Yuan¡¯s previous office had been next door, the one closest to the department head¡¯s private office, while thisrger office was for junior staff.

    The department head bringing her here had people specting about his intentions.

    Though varied thoughts swirled in everyone¡¯s minds, they weed Jiang Yuan enthusiastically.

    "Hello, everyone." Jiang Yuan greeted warmly, "I¡¯m sure you¡¯re somewhat familiar with me already, so I won¡¯t make any repetitive introductions. I look forward to working well with you all."

    Poised and confident, her smile was impable.

    No wonder she lived up to her reputation as "the legendary Jiang Yuan."

    After saying a few more words, the department head left.

    Su Qingnuan watched Jiang Yuan moving seamlessly through the crowd, deep in thought.

    So this was the person whose work ID she¡¯d found the previous evening¡ªJiang Yuan.

    Perhaps Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze lingered too long, catching Jiang Yuan¡¯s attention. Jiang Yuan turned toward her abruptly and locked eyes.

    Her gaze was gentle and non-confrontational,nding lightly on Su Qingnuan.

    Momentarily stunned, Su Qingnuan quickly smiled and nodded.

    Jiang Yuan returned the smile with a slight nod.

    As she shifted her focus, Su Qingnuan mused silently, Jiang Yuan doesn¡¯t seem too bad after all...

    Returning to her work, Su Qingnuan set aside distractions and focused.

    Later, when she finished her task, she stretchedzily and looked up.

    Right then, she saw Manager Huang walking in.

    Manager Huang¡¯s gazended squarely on Su Qingnuan. No need to guess¡ªhe was looking for her.

    Su Qingnuan quickly stood up and jogged over.

    "Manager Huang." Su Qingnuan greeted him with a smile, "Were you looking for me?"

    Manager Huang smiled and shook his head, "It¡¯s not me looking for you."

    Not him....

    Then it must be someone else.

    She nced down at her watch¡ªit was nearly lunchtime. Going up now... would she miss lunch?

    Seeing her nce at the time and her face cloud over with concern, Manager Huang chuckled, "I noticed Ah Qi brought a food container along, and the portions looked quite generous."

    "...Well, alright then."

 Chapter 169: Dining Together

    <h4>Chapter 169: Chapter 169: Dining Together</h4>

    Before leaving, Su Qingnuan said a few words to Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Gu Xiaoxiao was puzzled when she saw Manager Huang personallye looking for her.

    "Is it about yesterday again?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked worriedly. "Have you thought it through? If not, you could ask Manager Huang for some more time."

    Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled faintly, "I understand, don¡¯t worry."

    After speaking, Su Qingnuan followed Manager Huang out of the office.

    As soon as she walked out, the office was immediately filled with murmurs of conversation.

    "That Su Qingnuan, she¡¯s only been here less than a month, yet she sticks to Manager Huang all the time. Who knows what Manager Huang sees in her."

    "You didn¡¯t hear? When she first joined, someone mentioned that she had someone backing her."

    "Who¡¯s that? I¡¯ve asked around but couldn¡¯t find out who she¡¯s connected to."

    "No idea, but it¡¯s kept pretty secretive. From the looks of it now, could her backer actually be Manager Huang? You know Manager Huang is still unmarried, right?"

    "Are you saying..."

    A group of women huddled together, their topic predictably revolving around gossip, chatting away excitedly as amused listeners smiled nearby.

    Jiang Yuan stared in the direction Su Qingnuan had disappeared, her gaze slightly fixed.

    ...

    Upon reaching the top floor, Su Qingnuan instantly spotted Fu Yihan seated there.

    Fu Yihan leaned his single hand against the armrest, holding his head up, his eyes shut tight.

    "President Fu, Miss Su is here," Manager Huang said respectfully.

    Heavy eyelids slowly lifted, revealing those deep, prating eyes.

    The cool, familiar gaze fell on Su Qingnuan as she stepped forward two paces.

    "Mr. Fu."

    "Mm," Fu Yihan responded softly, then closed his eyes again. "Sit down. Rest for a while."

    "...Alright."

    Su Qingnuan walked over and sat on the sofa. Manager Huang took the opportunity to slip out through the door.

    Once Su Qingnuan realized, all she heard was the sound of the door closing.

    Looking at the tightly shut door, Su Qingnuan remembered¡ªthis wasn¡¯t the first time she¡¯d been here.

    The room was infused with a fragrance, a scent Fu Yihan liked.

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t familiar with using fragrant products and didn¡¯t know what the scent was, but it smelled lovely.

    "What do you want for lunch?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan snapped out of her thoughts, confused. "Manager Huang mentioned that Aqi brought food over..."

    She assumed it was a simple matter of eating the food brought, but now it seemed there was an extra step.

    Fu Yihan nced at her, his smile enigmatic.

    Meeting his gaze, Su Qingnuan hurriedly said, "I¡¯ll eat whatever¡¯s avable!"

    "Mm."

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan pushed his wheelchair forward: "Let¡¯s go."

    "Huh?"

    Still puzzled, Su Qingnuan followed him forward.

    "Today, we¡¯re eating out."

    Eating out?

    She recalled that Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t someone fond of dining out. Why today...?

    The figure ahead didn¡¯t give her time to think¡ªhe was already inside the elevator, nkly staring at her.

    Su Qingnuan promptly followed him in.

    The two descended straight to the parking lot. The driver wasn¡¯t Aqi this time.

    "To Taisong Inn."

    "Understood."

    The car drove out of thepany lot. Watching the building grow smaller in the distance, Su Qingnuan retracted her gaze.

    Fu Yihan rested his head on the headrest, eyes closed.

    He looked exhausted...

    Involuntarily, Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze drifted to Fu Yihan¡¯s legs.

    The ck suit pants revealed nothing about the condition of his knees.

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qingnuan tentatively broke the silence.

    "Hmm?" His response was casual and indifferent.

    "How are your legs?"

    Finally, those drowsy eyes openedzily, casting a nce at Su Qingnuan.

    There wasn¡¯t any chilling emotion, just a calm scrutiny.

    "They¡¯re fine," Fu Yihan raised a brow. "Why? What¡¯s the matter?"

    Awkwardly, Su Qingnuan chuckled, "I was just thinking¡ªyour knee pads might need changing, and maybe it¡¯s time to check the progress of recovery."

    "...Mm." Closing his eyes again, Fu Yihan added, "We¡¯ll deal with it after we get back."

    Not daring to press further, Su Qingnuan wisely shut her mouth when she noticed he wasn¡¯t responding anymore.

    Taisong Inn was a family-style chain restaurant. The time they arrived happened to be its busiest hours, and there was already a long line outside.

    Su Qingnuan was about to suggest switching to another restaurant when the waiter hurried over.

    "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re here!"

    ncing at the crowded entrance, Fu Yihan replied coolly, "Busy day."

    "Yes indeed..." The waiter smiled. "Your seat is ready; please follow me this way."

    The waiter led the pair through another door, unbothered by the line outside. This quieter passage was free of people waiting.

    Observing the packed main hall, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but marvel.

    Although this establishment had been around for years, business was still as booming as ever.

    The waiter opened a private room door and smiled, "Mr. Fu, please step inside."

    Su Qingnuan wheeled Fu Yihan in.

    With the door shut, the noise outside immediately faded away.

    "The usual, Mr. Fu?" asked the waiter.

    Fu Yihan turned to Su Qingnuan, "Anything in particr you¡¯d like to eat?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head, "No, I¡¯m fine with anything."

    Apparently ustomed to her response, Fu Yihan said nothing further. He simply nodded at the waiter.

    The dishes at Taisong Inn were served quickly. After merely two cups of tea, the food was brought in.

    Su Qingnuan immediately sat upright, waiting for Fu Yihan to pick up his chopsticks before following suit.

    She ate very seriously¡ªsomething she had picked up during her time at the Fu household.

    Because eating diligently and talking little could avoid most unnecessary trouble.

    While this attitude would surely earn praise at the Fu household, it didn¡¯t seem fitting for the current situation.

    Watching someone¡¯s bowed head devoted to eating, Fu Yihan¡¯s brows furrowed slightly.

    "Are you that hungry?"

    Startled, Su Qingnuan swallowed her food and looked up, "After lunch, there¡¯s still work in the afternoon..."

    "Hmph!" cing down his chopsticks, Fu Yihan¡¯s gloomy eyes fixated on her.

    What was wrong?

    Panic-stricken, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t know where to ce her hands and feet. Had she said something wrong again?

    From the corner of her eye, she noticed¡ªthe food in Fu Yihan¡¯s bowl remained untouched, almost as if he¡¯d never started eating.

    "Mr. Fu, do you enjoy fish?" Su Qingnuan asked carefully, attempting to ease the tension.

    Fu Yihan raised a brow, "No."

    "...What about beef?"

    The braised beef with potatoes looked absolutely mouthwatering¡ªsurely he¡¯d like that?

    Fu Yihan sneered, "No."

    "Then..."

    Quickly scanning the dishes, Su Qingnuan tried again, "What about ribs?"

    The red-braised ribs also appeared delectable!

    This time, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t reply; he simply watched her silently.

    Summoning her courage, Su Qingnuan picked up a rib with her chopsticks and ced it into his bowl.

    "These ribs are delicious¡ªyou should have some too, Mr. Fu."

    Lowering his gaze to the ribs peacefully settled in his bowl, a trace of thought flickered in Fu Yihan¡¯s expression.

    Seeing him unmoved, Su Qingnuan grew anxious. "Mr. Fu, eat it! It¡¯s not meant to be admired¡ªwhy not try it?"

 Chapter 170 Preferences

    <h4>Chapter 170: Chapter 170 Preferences</h4>

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s expectant gaze, Fu Yihan finally picked up his chopsticks.

    His movements were slow. From picking up the chopsticks to taking the first bite, Su Qingnuan watched nervously, afraid that if she looked away for even a second, he might just throw the pork rib aside.

    Slowly and methodically, he took a bite before setting the chopsticks down.

    "It¡¯s alright."

    "Alright" was already a decent evaluation. Su Qingnuan let out a sigh of relief.

    "Then try this." Su Qingnuan added a piece of shredded meat to Fu Yihan¡¯s bowl. "I think this tastes really good."

    It was cooked with baby ginger, carrying a rich fragrance, the kind Su Qingnuan particrly liked.

    Fu Yihan nced at the shredded meat, then looked across at Su Qingnuan.

    Those clear eyes were currently filled with anticipation, shining brightly.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled slightly as he picked up his chopsticks again.

    Under Su Qingnuan¡¯s attentive service, Fu Yihan finally finished the bowl of rice.

    After the meal, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan into the elevator. As she reached out to press a button, she suddenly heard the man behind her say, "Not the parking garage."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan turned her head in confusion. "Not the parking garage?"

    "Mm, let¡¯s walk around upstairs."

    "...Alright."

    Su Qingnuan casually pressed a floor button. When the elevator stopped, she pushed Fu Yihan out.

    Sitting in the wheelchair, Fu Yihan attracted plenty of sidelong nces as they moved along.

    Unbothered by the attention, Fu Yihan sat upright, as if he were at a formal meeting.

    Seeing his serious expression, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly.

    From her recent observations, if Fu Yihan kept up that expression, a bad mood was likely on the horizon.

    Her eyes caught sight of an arcade, and Su Qingnuan stopped, smiling. "Mr. Fu, do you know how to win a stuffed toy?"

    "Win a stuffed toy?" Fu Yihan looked at her, puzzled.

    Su Qingnuan smiled mischievously and pushed Fu Yihan toward the arcade.

    Outside the arcade, the lobby was filled with w machines, while the interior housed various other game activities.

    The noisy hum of machines, mixed with the chatter of children, filled the air.

    They stopped in front of a w machine. Su Qingnuan said excitedly, "This one!"

    Fu Yihan gave it a dismissive look. "Childish."

    "..."

    The person behind her stayed silent, causing Fu Yihan to turn his head.

    What he saw was Su Qingnuan standing there, her cheeks flushed, looking rather embarrassed.

    Whether it was the dim lighting here or her lowered eyebrows and hesitant demeanor, Fu Yihan found himself unable to say no.

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan let out a cold hum. "How does this work?"

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly, then was overjoyed. Smiling, she immediately said, "I¡¯ll go ask."

    "Ask?" Fu Yihan frowned. "You haven¡¯t yed it before?"

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head sheepishly. "I wasn¡¯t in great health as a kid, so I rarely got the chance to y these kinds of things."

    There was some truth and some embellishment in her words, but Fu Yihan didn¡¯t entirely believe her.

    Not until he saw her clumsily exchange game tokens and then bewilderedly search for the coin slot did he finally believe her.

    "Mr. Fu, here, you try." Su Qingnuan made space for him, her eyes fixed on him with excitement.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and moved his hand to the joystick.

    He aligned the w, then pressed the button.

    The w slowly descended and picked up a stuffed toy, but as it approached the drop chute, it suddenly shook, and the toy fell.

    "Ah..." Su Qingnuan sighed in disappointment. "So close."

    "Again," Fu Yihan said.

    Su Qingnuan inserted two more coins.

    But every time, the result was the same. Just before sess, the w would suddenly shake.

    Watching as one hundred yuan worth of tokens disappeared, Su Qingnuan said helplessly, "Should we... try something else?"

    "No," Fu Yihan said through gritted teeth. "Keep going."

    "..."

    Knowing Fu Yihan¡¯s stubborn nature, Su Qingnuan refrained from further persuasion. She exchanged another two hundred yuan for tokens, and the two of them continued their battle with the w machine.

    Their relentless token-feeding caught the attention of onlookers, drawing a growing crowd.

    Observing their actions, many spectators looked at them as if they were hopelessly extravagant fools.

    As the crowd grewrger, Su Qingnuan bent down and whispered, "Mr. Fu, maybe we should y something else?"

    Fu Yihan ignored her, his eyes fixed on the w.

    This w had clearly been tampered with. A slight movement would cause the prize to drop.

    "Again," Fu Yihanmanded.

    With a sigh, Su Qingnuan bent down to insert more tokens.

    This time, with the tokens in ce, Fu Yihan gripped the joystick firmly, his eyes unwavering.

    The w sessfullytched onto a toy, lifted it, and then...

    "Bang¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan froze, staring at Fu Yihan in astonishment.

    A moment earlier, he had suddenly shoved the machine with great force, creating a loud noise.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan cautiously asked, "This is a public ce. What are you doing?"

    Fu Yihan cast her a sidelong nce, looking quite smug as he gazed at the machine.

    Noticing his pleased yet silent expression, Su Qingnuan curiously followed his gaze.

    There, in the machine¡¯s prize chute,y a stuffed toy, quietly resting.

    "It came out?" Su Qingnuan eximed in surprise.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "If it cheats, I have my ways to deal with it."

    Picking up the toy, Su Qingnuan excitedly said, "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re amazing!"

    She¡¯d never tried to win from a w machine, but judging by Fu Yihan¡¯s attempts, it was clear how difficult it was to win.

    To seed even once was quite an achievement.

    Watching her hold the toy with a delighted expression, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled slightly. "We got the toy, let¡¯s go."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan ced the toy on Fu Yihan¡¯sp and began pushing his wheelchair out.

    Lowering his gaze, Fu Yihan looked at the toy resting on hisp, lost in thought.

    Beyond the w machine, Su Qingnuan suggested trying darts with Fu Yihan.

    However, Fu Yihan sternly declined.

    Handing the stuffed toy to Su Qingnuan, Fu Yihan used his crutch and got into the car.

    On the way back, Su Qingnuan kept ying with the toy, her face lit with joy, unable to put it down.

    Seeing her so invested in the toy, Fu Yihan chuckled softly. "Did your family never buy you stuffed toys?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan toned down her smile, a blush creeping onto her cheeks. "No, it¡¯s just my first time winning a toy like this. I¡¯m surprised..."

    More than surprised, she was genuinely happy.

    She¡¯d never used a w machine, nor had she ever managed to win anything from one. This kind of joy wasn¡¯t something easily exined¡ªjust pure, simple happiness.

    Retracting his gaze, Fu Yihan smiled faintly. "If you like it, we can win more next time."

    "Next time?" Su Qingnuan opened her eyes wide in surprise, looking at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, giving her a knowing, faintly amused look.

    His eyes, usually calm like an ancient, unruffled pool, now stirred with ripples.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment.

    Seeing her staring at him absentmindedly, Fu Yihan averted his gaze, lowering his head with aposed expression.

    "Why are you staring at me?"

    Su Qingnuan snapped back to reality and quickly said, "No...nothing."

 Chapter 171: The Ever-Changing Man

    <h4>Chapter 171: Chapter 171: The Ever-Changing Man</h4>

    If only her gaze had been a bit more resolute when she said those words, perhaps they would have been more convincing.

    Fu Yihan curled his lips but said nothing more.

    Back at thepany, Fu Yihan went directly upstairs, while Su Yuerou naturally returned to her office.

    Seeing Su Yuerou return jubntly with the rabbit doll in her arms, Gu Xiaoxiao stepped forward in confusion. "Where did you get that?"

    As Gu Xiaoxiao reached out to take the doll, Su Yuerou hurriedly snatched it back.

    "Don¡¯t touch it!"

    "..." Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled. "What, do you think I¡¯d actually steal it from you? This isn¡¯t... "

    Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly stopped, giving Su Yuerou a mischievous look with a hint of teasing. "This wasn¡¯t something you bought yourself, was it?"

    Hugging the doll, Su Yuerou smiled faintly. "Of course not."

    "So... someone gave it to you?" Gu Xiaoxiao bumped Su Yuerou¡¯s shoulder yfully. "Who was it? Did you go out at lunch to meet your Mr. Fu?"

    Su Yuerou paused in slight surprise, then coughed awkwardly. "How do you know it¡¯s Mr. Fu?"

    "Who else could it be?" Gu Xiaoxiaoughed. "Every day, you have someone picking you up from work. Apart from the men in our office, you don¡¯t seem to meet anyone else."

    "... The way you¡¯re putting it makes me sound like Ick charm." Su Yuerou helplessly put the doll away and picked up some documents.

    "You do have charm. It¡¯s just that no one dares to approach." Gu Xiaoxiao replied earnestly, "Back in school, there were so many guys chasing after you, but you wouldn¡¯t even nce at them."

    "Huh? Really?"

    Her face was filled with confusion, her eyes brimming with disbelief.

    Gu Xiaoxiao sighed in exasperation. "I really feel bad for all those guys who confessed to you."

    She exaggeratedly clutched her chest, as if she truly felt heartache.

    Su Yuerou shot her a re. "Alright, enough of your antics. Go back to work."

    "Got it, got it!" Gu Xiaoxiaoughed as she returned to her desk.

    Su Yuerou took a deep breath, nced at the doll sitting in the corner, and couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    ...

    "Yuerou, let¡¯s go."

    At the end of the workday, Gu Xiaoxiao walked over and took Su Yuerou¡¯s arm.

    Su Yuerou offered an apologetic smile. "Sorry, Xiaoxiao. I can¡¯te with you today. Mr. Fu said he¡¯d pick me upter, so I need to wait at thepany."

    "Alright, I¡¯ll head out first then."

    Watching Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s departing figure, Su Yuerou let out a quiet sigh of relief.

    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that lying to Xiaoxiao gave her the impression of sneaking around.

    Taking out her phone, she sent a message to Ah Qi, asking whether Fu Yihan was in the car.

    The reply she received was negative.

    Could it be that Fu Yihan still had no ns to return home today?

    Her gaze fell on the little rabbit doll sitting on her desk. After a long silence, Su Yuerou picked up her bag and headed toward the elevator.

    For the first time without anyone leading, Su Yuerou went to the top floor.

    The door was closed. She wasn¡¯t sure if anyone was inside.

    Su Yuerou hesitated outside the door for a long time before finally gathering the courage to knock.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The sound of knocking echoed clearly in the quiet hallway.

    Was there no one inside?

    Looking at the closed door with no sign of movement, Su Yuerou bit her lip in disappointment.

    Fine, if no one¡¯s here, then no one¡¯s here. She might as well leave.

    With that thought in mind, Su Yuerou turned away.

    "Creak¡ª"

    A sound came from behind her, and Su Yuerou quickly turned back.

    Fu Yihan was sitting in a wheelchair, looking at her expressionlessly.

    "Mr. Fu..." Under Fu Yihan¡¯s icy gaze, Su Yuerou hesitated briefly before speaking softly. "I heard you hadn¡¯t left yet, so I came to check on you."

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and said coldly, "Why haven¡¯t you gone home yet?"

    Why hadn¡¯t she gone home?

    She didn¡¯t know why either. She just had a vague feeling that Fu Yihan wouldn¡¯t be going home today, which was why she came to check on him.

    "Mr. Fu, are you not nning to go home today either?" Su Yuerou didn¡¯t answer his question but asked one of her own instead.

    His gaze darkened. After staring at her for a moment, Fu Yihan shook his head. "No, I won¡¯t."

    "..."

    "You should go home now," Fu Yihan said.

    With that, the door closed in Su Yuerou¡¯s face.

    Staring at the tightly shut door, Su Yuerou suddenly felt disoriented, as if the somewhat approachable Fu Yihan from earlier that day had just been an illusion.

    ...

    Leaving thepany, Su Yuerou spotted the car parked in the distance and let out a quiet sigh.

    "Young Madam," Ah Qi, sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, greeted her respectfully as she got into the car. "Are we leaving now?"

    "Let¡¯s go."

    Familiar scenery rushed past on both sides, and Su Yuerou stared absentmindedly at the view speeding by.

    The car was quiet; Ah Qi was not a talkative person.

    After an indeterminate amount of time, Su Yuerou withdrew her gaze and looked at Ah Qi.

    "Ah Qi, why won¡¯t Mr. Fu go home?"

    Hearing her puzzled tone, Ah Qi remained expressionless and replied tly, "We wouldn¡¯t dare inquire into the Eldest Young Master¡¯s affairs."

    "..."

    Though she already expected that answer, Su Yuerou couldn¡¯t help but ask.

    With a helpless sigh, she turned her gaze back to the window.

    As expected, Fu Yihan¡¯s unpredictable demeanor was not something that would suddenly change.

    Today, the Fu household was unusually lively.

    Su Yuerou hadn¡¯t even stepped inside before she heard the cheerful voicesing from the living room.

    Walking inside with a hint of curiosity, she paused upon seeing a familiar figure. Her expression shifted subtly.

    "Oh! Yuerou is back!" Jiang Liyun stood up with a wide smile, walking over to Su Yuerou and naturally linking arms with her. Her attitude was affectionate. "I¡¯ve been waiting for you for so long. Why are you only getting back now?"

    Su Yuerou¡¯s face stiffened. Meeting Jiang Liyun¡¯s warm gaze, she asked, "What are you doing here?"

    "Why?" Jiang Liyun smirked. "Not happy to see me?"

    "What kind of talk is that, inws?" Fu Jiangughed, gesturing for Su Yuerou toe closer. "Yuerou, hurry up and join us. Your mother came especially to see you today. Oh, and your sister too!"

    Su Yuerou stopped in her tracks, staring at Jiang Liyun in disbelief. "Sister?"

    Jiang Liyun squeezed her arm lightly, smiling all the while. "Yes! Your sister is here too. The Second Young Master is showing her around now, but she¡¯lle and meet you shortly."

    Heh...

    Only then did Su Yuerou grasp why Jiang Liyun had suddenly appeared. It wasn¡¯t to visit her¡ªit was to check out the prospective match for the Second Young Master.

    Following Jiang Liyun¡¯s lead, Su Yuerou sat down.

    Amid the boisterous atmosphere between the two families, Su Yuerou chose a quiet corner of the sofa, simply observing with cold detachment.

    She watched Jiang Liyun jovially converse with the Old Master and banter with Fu Jiang. The colder Su Yuerou felt internally, the eerier the calm.

    More time passed, and footsteps sounded from the staircase.

    The group turned to look, seeing Fu Yihanging down first, followed by Su Yuerou¡¯s sister, Su Xiaoxiao. The two chatted lightheartedly as they descended.

    "Yuerou!" Jiang Liyun raised her voice cheerfully, "Your sister¡¯s back."

    Su Xiaoxiao¡¯s gazended on Su Yuerou and curved into a somewhat mocking smile.

    "Sister, so d you¡¯re finally home." Su Xiaoxiao walked over and sat close to her, leaning in intimately. "We¡¯ve been waiting on you for ages."

    Su Yuerou frowned, pushing Su Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand away coldly.

    "Have you?"

 Chapter 172: Indifferent Relatives

    <h4>Chapter 172: Chapter 172: Indifferent Rtives</h4>

    Her cold attitude made Su Yuerou¡¯s movements freeze.

    This scene fell into Fu Jiang¡¯s eyes, and he naturally recalled those words Su Yuerou had said before. He couldn¡¯t help but sneer, "Sister-inw, your family came to see you, yet you put on airs and onlye back now."

    Between the lines, he was ming Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan nced at him, her frown deepening: "They are indeed my family, but it seems the Second Young Master is happier to see them than I am. Why not have the Second Young Master take care of my family for me?"

    After saying that, Su Qingnuan got up and headed upstairs.

    "Yuerou!" The old man suddenly spoke up seriously, "In the Fu family, we don¡¯t act unruly."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan stopped in her tracks.

    She was staying with the Fu family now and could disregard the feelings of the Su family, but she couldn¡¯t go against the Fu family.

    Turning around, Su Qingnuan returned to the sofa, but this time she didn¡¯t sit next to the mother and daughter pair but beside the old man.

    With stern eyes scanning Su Qingnuan, the old man silently watched her.

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head, clutching her hem tightly without saying a word.

    Across the room, Su Yuerou uneasily clung to Jiang Liyun, asionally ncing at Su Qingnuan with an innocent look.

    Jiang Liyun gently patted her back,forting her in a voice only the two of them could hear.

    The atmosphere was a bit eerie.

    "Master! The meal is ready."

    The timely voice of the maid broke this eerie atmosphere.

    Fu Jiang stood up, smiling, "Come,e, it¡¯s time to eat. You came as guests; we can¡¯t let you go hungry."

    Jiang Liyun smiled and helped Su Yuerou stand up.

    "No need to be formal between inws."

    Fu Jiang smiled and followed them.

    They cheerfully headed to the dining room, no one paying attention to Su Qingnuan¡¯s expression.

    She stared at Jiang Liyun with eyes full of pain, but more so, hatred.

    "Yuerou." A deep voice sounded by her ear.

    Su Qingnuan turned her head, facing a pair of eyes that were wise yet experienced.

    "Grandfather." Su Qingnuan immediately lowered her head, hiding the emotions in her eyes.

    The old man frowned at her, his voice not losing its sternness: "No matter how much hatred you have in your heart, don¡¯t show it. The Fu family has always treated others with courtesy."

    "... Yes," Su Qingnuan nodded earnestly, "I understand."

    He stood up with the help of his cane: "Let¡¯s go, help me over there."

    "Alright."

    Helping the old man into the dining room, the others were already seated.

    The old man¡¯s seat, naturally the head of the household¡¯s position, if going by the previous arrangement, Su Qingnuan should sit next to Fu Yihan, but since Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t there today, she naturally moved back.

    "Wait." The old man called Su Qingnuan back, pointing to the seat beside him, "Yuerou, sit here."

    Su Qingnuan was slightly stunned.

    Not only was Su Qingnuan stunned, the others were too.

    Having Su Qingnuan sit beside the old man was undoubtedly announcing to those present his favor towards her.

    "Grandfather...." Fu Jiang frowned and got up, "Let me sit with you, sister-inw hasn¡¯t seen her family for so long, let them sit together and catch up."

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan quickly pulled out her chair and sat down.

    "Grandfather, sitting by your side, just tell me whatever you need help with."

    The old man smiled contentedly and looked towards the kitchen maid, "Serve the dishes."

    Su Qingnuan helped the old man set the bowls and chopsticks, noticing a pair of eyes intently staring at her from the corner of her eye.

    It was none other than Su Yuerou.

    Su Qingnuan curled her lips into a smile, looking at her with a sense of triumph and unspeakable delight in her eyes.

    During dinner, it was inevitable that Su Yuerou¡¯s ttery came up.

    However, she had a way with words; those sweet wordsing from her innocent little face, even if deliberately, one couldn¡¯t help but forgive when looking at such a pretty face.

    But Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t. Whenever Su Yuerou said something inappropriate, Su Qingnuan would coldly interrupt her.

    Fu Jiang was quite dissatisfied with this.

    "By the way, Grandfather, our system was able to restart thanks to Aunt¡¯s family."

    The old man paused, smiling at Jiang Liyun, "Thank you so much."

    "No need for thanks, being able to help is our honor. Our families are already rtives, and now with business ties, we can be even closer family."

    "Exactly! Exactly!" Fu Jiangughed, raising his ss, "Come,e, for a better future for our two families, for Fu Yihan and Yuerou¡¯s happiness, let¡¯s toast!"

    Everyone raised their ss, standing up.

    Su Qingnuan nced at her grandfather¡¯s expression and obediently raised her ss and stood up.

    "Cheers!"

    Everyoneughed and toasted, except for Su Qingnuan, who expressionlessly put down her ss and sat.

    Her actions didn¡¯t disturb the joyous atmosphere; everyone continued chatting as if her opinions weren¡¯t important to them.

    After dinner, Su Qingnuan found an excuse to go upstairs.

    This time, the old man didn¡¯t make things difficult for her.

    Back in her room, Su Qingnuan sat on the sofa, her brows tightly furrowed.

    Fu Jiang had indeed coborated with the Su family.

    One must know, the system provided by the Su family was no good; smallpanies might manage, but slightlyrger ones might have the system copse directly. It¡¯s uncertain how long that broken system wouldst.

    She leaned against the sofa, tilting her head back to stare at the ceiling.

    Already in a bad mood because of Fu Yihan¡¯s situation, those numbers and the mother-daughter duo still managed to be a headache, truly annoying.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The knocking interrupted Su Qingnuan¡¯s thoughts, and she got up to head to the door.

    The door opened, revealing Su Yuerou standing outside.

    "Sister." Su Yuerou called in a sarcastic tone, "I came to chat with you."

    Su Qingnuan frowned, her voice cold, "I have nothing to talk about with you."

    She chuckled, leaning her body forward with a meaningful smile, "Don¡¯t you want to know what exactly is my rtionship with Fu Jiang?"

    "Your rtionship with him is none of my business."

    Su Qingnuan coldly pushed Su Yuerou aside, then closed the door.

    "Wait!" Su Yuerou blocked the door, gritting her teeth, "If you don¡¯t let me in today, I¡¯ll go downstairs and tell Grandfather right now that you are actually Su Qingnuan!"

    "...."

    Seeing the gritted teeth of Su Yuerou, Su Qingnuan suddenly let go of her strength.

    Su Yuerou, caught off guard, lost her grip and stumbled into the room, face-nting on the floor.

    Su Qingnuan snorted, sat down on the sofa, "If you wish to perform such a big etiquette, you could¡¯ve done it downstairs already."

    "Su Qingnuan!" Su Yuerou propped herself up from the floor, ring angrily at Su Qingnuan.

    "Say what you have to say." Su Qingnuan raised her eyebrows.

    Su Yuerou dusted off her non-existent dust on her shoes, gritting her teeth, "Don¡¯t think just because you¡¯re living with the Fu family, you can do whatever you want."

 Chapter 173: Not Yours

    <h4>Chapter 173: Chapter 173: Not Yours</h4>

    "Heh!" A faint smile surfaced on Su Qingnuan¡¯s cold, frost-like face. "This is my home. I can¡¯t be carefree here? Then tell me, where can I be carefree? At the Su family residence?"

    "Don¡¯t even think about it!" Su Yuerou snapped. "The Su family is not a ce for you to act out."

    "Oh, right, your Su family cares so much about face. And yet, here you are, groveling and bringing this upon yourselves. I wonder what kind of joke this must look like to others."

    "You!" Su Yuerou pointed at her, enraged. "Su Qingnuan, do you really think I don¡¯t dare touch you?"

    "Don¡¯t dare?" Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly, looking at her leisurely. "Is there anything in this world that our Second Miss Su doesn¡¯t dare to do?"

    She raised her wrist, lifting the back of her hand with a scar toward Su Yuerou. "Look at these wounds. What haven¡¯t you dared to do?"

    It was a thin, elongated scar, already pale. If one didn¡¯t look closely, it could easily be overlooked.

    Su Yuerou guiltily averted her gaze. "You did that to yourself. What does it have to do with me?"

    "I did it to myself?" Su Qingnuanughed scornfully. "Su Yuerou, you¡¯re getting good at this. Lying without even blinking."

    "I didn¡¯t do it in the first ce, so of course I won¡¯t admit to it!" Su Yuerou raised her voice, coldly continuing, "You¡¯re just bringing this up now to distract me."

    Su Qingnuan gazed at her icily for a long while, then reached out and pulled the door closed.

    "Wait!" Su Yuerou hurriedly blocked the door. "What are you doing?"

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow. "There¡¯s nothing more to say to you. Move aside!"

    "...You¡¯re just feeling guilty, aren¡¯t you?! I make you feel guilty! You¡¯re afraid I¡¯ll tell Grandpa the truth, aren¡¯t you?"

    Su Qingnuan smiled indifferently. "Then go ahead. It doesn¡¯t bother me. Or do you think that after telling Grandpa the truth, he¡¯ll let you in? With Fu Yixing? Su Yuerou, you¡¯re not a child anymore. Surely you¡¯re not this na?ve?"

    "..."

    Perhaps she hadn¡¯t expected Su Qingnuan to respond this way, leaving Su Yuerou momentarily stunned. She stared nkly at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan pushed away Su Yuerou¡¯s hand and mmed the door shut with a "bang."

    Not stopping there, she proceeded to lock the door, barring the person outside froming in.

    "Knock, knock, knock¡ª"

    The persistent knocking resumed from outside, but Su Qingnuan paid no attention. She closed her eyes andy down on the sofa.

    "Su Qingnuan! Open the door!"

    The person outside didn¡¯t dare to shout loudly, only suppressing their voice as they continued to knock incessantly.

    Su Qingnuan ignored it, turned over, and resumed her rest.

    She didn¡¯t know how much time had passed before the knocking finally stopped.

    Only then did Su Qingnuan open her eyes. Seeing the empty house, she suddenly thought of Fu Yihan.

    Though he always seemed cold and distant, at least he wouldn¡¯t let Su Yuerou strut around so smugly.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of nostalgia for Fu Yihan¡¯s presence.

    Leaning against the sofa, she unknowingly drifted off to sleep.

    When she woke, it was the biting chill that stirred her.

    In the pitch-ck room, only the vague moonlight outside provided any illumination.

    Su Qingnuan stood up and turned on a nearby deskmp.

    Under the dim yellow light, the room seemed even emptier.

    Su Qingnuan stared at a shadow in the corner for a while before getting up and heading to the bathroom.

    After brushing her teeth, she was about to take a shower when another knock sounded from outside.

    Su Qingnuan poked her head out curiously. "Who is it?"

    "It¡¯s me."

    A deep, familiar voice answered.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then hurriedly ran over to open the door.

    The person sitting in a wheelchair red at her impatiently with an icy expression.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan eximed in surprise. "Why are you back?"

    "Am I not allowed to return?" Fu Yihan asked coldly.

    "No... of course not," Su Qingnuan quickly retreated, smiling awkwardly. "Please,e in."

    Pushing his wheelchair forward, Fu Yihan entered the room. "A-Qi, tell Auntie to send up some food."

    "Understood."

    As the door closed, Su Qingnuan stood in front of Fu Yihan, somewhat dumbfounded.

    "Why are you just standing there?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, a faint trace of exasperation in his eyes.

    "Ah..." Su Qingnuan finally came to her senses, fumbling as she looked at Fu Yihan. "Mr. Fu, have you not had dinner yet? Should I help? Or, um..."

    She held a towel in her hand, which now seemed entirely out of ce.

    Noticing how crumpled the towel had be in her grip, Fu Yihan chuckled softly. "No need for you to do such things here. Sit down."

    "Oh... alright."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, taking a seat.

    She sneaked a nce at Fu Yihan¡¯splexion. Compared to when she saw him at the office earlier in the day, he seemed much better now.

    Had something good happened, easing his anger?

    As she pondered this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help scrutinizing his expression more closely.

    However, Fu Yihan remained calm, scrolling through his phone with an air of indifference.

    Realizing her gaze, Fu Yihan turned his head, looking at her with mild puzzlement.

    Su Qingnuan forced a smile and awkwardly averted her eyes.

    "Is there something you want to say?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, then shook her head.

    Fu Yihan frowned. "Yes or no?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan cleared her throat awkwardly before admitting, "Mr. Fu, didn¡¯t you say earlier that you wouldn¡¯t being back tonight?"

    She had even gone to his office to confirm, only to receive that kind of response. So why had hee back suddenly?

    "When did I ever say I wouldn¡¯t return?" Fu Yihan retorted.

    Su Qingnuan hesitated for a moment before hesitantly replying, "But when I visited your office this afternoon, you..."

    "What about me? Was I rude to you?"

    "No..."

    Well, that didn¡¯t really count as being rude. At most, it was just indifference.

    "Then what¡¯s there to talk about?" Fu Yihan remainedposed, his tone utterly casual. "If I wasn¡¯t rude, there¡¯s no issue, is there?"

    "..."

    Logically, what he said made sense, but something about it still felt off.

    Before Su Qingnuan could sort through the conversation, a knock came at the door. A-Qi entered, followed by Auntie.

    "Eldest Young Master, Eldest Young Mistress," Auntie beamed, her eyes forming crescent moons. "Here¡¯s what I prepared for you."

    Seeing thevish spread, Su Qingnuan nodded with a smile. "Thank you, Auntie."

    Shaking her head, Auntie ced the food down and left.

    Su Qingnuan had assumed that when Fu Yihan said to bring up some food, he meant a simple snack. She hadn¡¯t expected such an extravagant feast.

    Her stomach growled slightly at the sight.

    Having only nibbled on a little earlier to avoid trouble, she hadn¡¯t eaten properly. Now, seeing the food, she couldn¡¯t help swallowing hard.

    Sighing in resignation, Su Qingnuan stood up. "Mr. Fu, please eat slowly. I¡¯ll go freshen up."

    "Wait," Fu Yihan called after her, eyeing her with a faint smirk. "Not hungry?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan blinked, hesitantly shaking her head. "Not hungry."

    She had eaten earlier; fighting Fu Yihan for food seemed inappropriate. Better not.

    Without saying a word, Fu Yihan simply picked up a pair of chopsticks and handed them to her.

    "Even if you¡¯re not hungry, sit with me and eat."

    "..."

 Chapter 174: Accompaniment

    <h4>Chapter 174: Chapter 174: Apaniment</h4>

    "Huh?" Su Qinnuan looked puzzled.

    Seeing her standing there without moving, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow: "Not sitting?"

    "..."

    Under Fu Yihan¡¯s pointed gaze, Su Qinnuan slowly sat down.

    Awkwardly taking the chopsticks, Su Qinnuan couldn¡¯t help but keep observing Fu Yihan¡¯s expression.

    Luckily, he didn¡¯t show any noticeable reaction on the surface.

    Just as Su Qinnuan hesitated about whether or not to pick up some food, a piece of rib was ced into her bowl.

    Startled, she looked up in shock, staring nkly at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan frowned: "Eat."

    "...Alright."

    The room fell quiet, with only the sound of utensils gently colliding echoing through the air.

    At first, Su Qinnuan was still a bit uneasy, but as she noticed the person in front of her not paying her much mind, she gradually rxed.

    In truth, halfway through the meal, Fu Yihan had already stopped eating.

    But he didn¡¯t set down his chopsticks; instead, he leisurely picked at the dishes, gazing at the person across from him who was eating with such focus.

    When Su Qinnuan ate, she always gave off a sense of pure satisfaction.

    Just watching her eat could stimte one¡¯s own appetite.

    It wasn¡¯t until Su Qinnuan sensed the slowness of the movements across the table that she realized something was off and looked up questioningly.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qinnuan paused for a moment. "You¡¯re not eating anymore?"

    "Not anymore." Fu Yihan set down his chopsticks and nced at the food left in her bowl. "Finish your food. No wasting."

    "...Alright."

    Lowering her head, Su Qinnuan continued eating, all the while wondering, since when had Fu Yihan be so frugal?

    After letting her thoughts drift for a bit and finishing her food, she set down her chopsticks. "I¡¯m done eating."

    "Mm."

    Fu Yihan adjusted his wheelchair and said, "Let¡¯s go out for a walk to digest."

    "Now?" Su Qinnuan got up and asked hesitantly, "But isn¡¯t everyone else already asleep?"

    "Keep your voice down, we won¡¯t wake them."

    "...Alright."

    Lightly and carefully, Su Qinnuan pushed Fu Yihan outside. Only when they exited the vi did the breath she¡¯d been holding release.

    The night outside was pitch ck, with only a few streetlights faintly illuminating the path.

    The household servants had all gone to rest, so naturally, nobody had left any lights on for them.

    Pushing Fu Yihan forward, Su Qinnuan walked through the shifting shadows of the trees surrounding them.

    As the night breeze brushed past, Su Qinnuan couldn¡¯t help but quicken her steps slightly.

    In this still of night, any slight movement she made was instantly noticed by Fu Yihan.

    He nced back at her and asked, "Cold?"

    Su Qinnuan paused momentarily, then shook her head. "Not really."

    In thete autumn night, with only jackets on, it was naturally chilly.

    Turning his gaze back to the front, Fu Yihan said, "Walk a few more steps, and we¡¯ll head back."

    "Huh?"

    They had only juste out; going back so soon seemed like it would undermine the purpose of the walk.

    As they approached the t garden area ahead, Su Qinnuan suddenly suggested, "Mr. Fu, since you¡¯re sitting, it might not help much with digestion. Would you like to try standing and walking a bit?"

    "..."

    The man in the wheelchair fell silent all of a sudden.

    Su Qinnuan leaned forward to check on him, but his expression was shrouded in shadows, making it hard to discern.

    "Mr. Fu?" she called out cautiously.

    Fu Yihan abruptly turned his head, his dark, shiny eyes devoid of any emotion as he stared at Su Qinnuan. "Do you think I can stand up?"

    "..."

    Lowering her gaze, Su Qinnuan fixated on his knees, her voice soft as she replied, "Of course you can stand. Didn¡¯t you use crutches to stand before? Even though you don¡¯t have them now, I can be your crutch!"

    With that, she patted her own shoulder and looked at Fu Yihan with anticipation.

    There was depth in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes, his gaze quietly fixed on her.

    In the dark of night, she couldn¡¯t make out whaty in his expression. But his tightly pressed lips told her that Fu Yihan might not be as pleased as she had imagined.

    "...Mr. Fu..." Su Qinnuan hesitated. "If you really don¡¯t want to, I can just..."

    "Help me up."

    Fu Yihan interrupted her and extended his hand.

    "Alright!"

    Su Qinnuan locked the wheelchair in ce and moved to his side, her shoulder leaning close to him.

    "Hold onto my shoulder. Don¡¯t worry about anything else, just focus on standing."

    Facing away from Fu Yihan, she couldn¡¯t see his expression.

    Behind her, there was no movement for a long time. Just as she was about to turn her head to check, a force was suddenly applied to her shoulder.

    Looking sideways, Su Qinnuan noticed his pale fingers resting on her ck jacket, their contrast strikingly sharp.

    Feeling the slight pressure on her shoulder, Su Qinnuan smiled faintly. "Mr. Fu, you can do it. Keep pushing!"

    "Hmph¡ª"

    A cold grunt escaped him, and the force on her shoulder increased.

    Su Qinnuan steadied herself, silently waiting for the person behind her to stand up.

    However, the pressure on her shoulder merely hung there without any upward momentum.

    Heavy breathing reached her ears, and Su Qinnuan could sense Fu Yihan¡¯s growing frustration.

    "Mr. Fu, no need to rush. Gather your strength first, then use it to stand."

    The force stilled momentarily before resuming, this time with arger motion. Before Su Qinnuan could fully react, he leaned his entire weight forward.

    Quickly, Su Qinnuan grabbed onto his hand, supporting half of his body¡¯s weight.

    "Mr. Fu, can you move?" she asked softly while observing his legs.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t immediately reply. He stared down at his legs for a long moment before murmuring, "Let¡¯s try."

    Nodding, Su Qinnuan helped support him, slowly taking a step forward.

    Following her guidance, Fu Yihan also shifted his foot forward, dragging it along.

    Though his leg was weak and limp, it still managed to rest steadily on the ground.

    Seeing his foot firmly nted, Su Qinnuan smiled. "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re standing."

    Sweat had gathered on Fu Yihan¡¯s forehead, and his eyes were slightly reddened.

    ncing briefly at Su Qinnuan, he mumbled, "It¡¯s useless. I can¡¯t feel the strength in my legs."

    "That¡¯s okay," Su Qinnuan encouraged him, her face bright with a smile. "We¡¯ll take it slow. You¡¯ll definitely be able to stand fully."

    Her cheerful smile radiated hope, her eyes sparkling as if the future was within reach.

    Fu Yihan stared at her, momentarily dazed.

    "I think that medicine is working. Maybe if I improve it a little, it¡¯ll yield unexpected results," Su Qinnuan said, her smile growing brighter. She turned to Fu Yihan, seeming to seek his affirmation. However, Fu Yihan continued to gaze at her, lost in thought.

    "Mr. Fu?" she called out uncertainly.

    "Ah?" He snapped out of his daze and lowered his head. "I can¡¯t move anymore."

    "That¡¯s okay," Su Qinnuan reassured him, gently helping him sit back down. "The fact that you could stand is already a big step forward. We can try again next time."

    "Mm..."

    Though the goal of walking had not been achieved, being able to stand was undoubtedly the first sess along the way.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 175: Trash

    <h4>Chapter 175: Chapter 175: Trash</h4>

    Compared to Fu Yihan, Su Qingnuan seemed much happier, pushing the wheelchair excitedly on the way back.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yihan just sat there, silent, lost in thought about something.

    It wasn¡¯t until they returned to the room that Su Qingnuan took off Fu Yihan¡¯s jacket and asked, "Mr. Fu, would you like to take a bath?"

    Fu Yihan snapped back to reality, ncing at her with an unreadable expression before nodding.

    Watching him head straight into the inner bathroom, Su Qingnuan tidied up quickly and waited until Fu Yihan was done before heading in herself.

    The bathroom had been equipped with specialized handrails and tools tailored for Fu Yihan, making bathing much more convenient without troubling others.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan suddenly realized that Fu Yihan was someone who really disliked inconveniencing others, whether it was her or Ah Qi.

    If he could manage things himself, he wouldn¡¯t call on someone else.

    Having noticed this, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but nce towards the door.

    But separated by the door, she couldn¡¯t see what Fu Yihan was doing outside.

    With a shrug of resignation, Su Qingnuan turned on the hot water.

    After washing up, Su Qingnuan came out to find Fu Yihan already sitting by the bed, waiting quietly.

    Su Qingnuan rushed over, holding Fu Yihan¡¯s arm gently: "Mr. Fu, let me help you onto the bed."

    Fu Yihan nced at her but didn¡¯t object.

    After helping him lie down, Su Qingnuan noticed as she adjusted the nket that his feet weren¡¯t dangling off the edge anymore.

    She carefully examined the bed in the room¡ªit seemed significantly longer than before?

    "What are you looking at?" A cool voice interrupted her thoughts.

    Su Qingnuan quickly shook her head: "N-nothing."

    Taking the hairdryer into the bathroom, she dried her hair and then hurried back out.

    Perhaps because she¡¯d eaten well that evening, Su Qingnuan slept soundly that night, without any dreams.

    When she woke up, the person beside her was still there.

    The two of them had separate beds and nkets, and both had good sleeping postures, so there wasn¡¯t any mutual disturbance.

    Seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s head buried under the nkets, Su Qingnuan got out of bed as quietly as possible and tiptoed into the bathroom.

    After getting ready, she came out to find Fu Yihan sitting on the bed, staring off into space.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan called out.

    Fu Yihan squinted at her, looking her up and down: "Leaving so early?"

    "Yes, our department has an early meeting today."

    "Okay." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, speaking softly, "Go ahead, let Ah Qi take you."

    Seeing he had no intention of getting up, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t press him, nodding as she left.

    At the door, Su Qingnuan suddenly stopped.

    "Oh, right!" Su Qingnuan darted to the small study room and pulled a pair of knee pads from the drawer.

    She hurried back to the bedroom, looking at Fu Yihan sitting calmly on the bed with a dismissive air: "Mr. Fu, these need to be reced!"

    Fu Yihan nced at her: "Should I change them myself?"

    At this, Su Qingnuan walked over, carefully pulling aside the nkets to reveal Fu Yihan¡¯s pajama pants.

    "Mr. Fu, I added new medicinal ingredients to this. It might feel itchy, or even painful, but that¡¯s a good sign. Please bear with it."

    "Itchy?" Fu Yihan looked at her, puzzled.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled: "Itching and pain mean your leg has sensation¡ªthat¡¯s good news."

    "Hmm."

    After recing the knee pads, Su Qingnuan carefully pulled his pant leg back down and smiled, "I¡¯m off to work now, Mr. Fu."

    "Hmm."

    Satisfied with onest nce at Fu Yihan¡¯s leg, Su Qingnuan cheerfully walked out.

    After Su Qingnuan left, Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze fell back onto his leg.

    For a long while, Fu Yihan picked up the phone and sent a message to someone.

    ...

    "Didn¡¯t you already have a check-upst time?" Gong Qi was pushing Fu Yihan toward the basement, looking puzzled. "Why another one?"

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t answer her question but instead asked, "Where¡¯s Qin Chuan?"

    "He¡¯s on hospital duty today. He asked me toe check in on you instead," Gong Qi exined helplessly, opening the door and pushing Fu Yihan inside. "Honestly, you¡¯re springing this on him suddenly¡ªhow could he possibly have time toe?"

    "Didn¡¯t I tell him he didn¡¯t need to work at the hospital anymore?"

    For someone who was supposed to be his family doctor, Qin Chuan was oddly fond of hanging around the hospital. It was unclear sometimes what his main focus even was.

    "You know what? Don¡¯t say this to me¡ªgo tell him yourself," Gong Qi teased, extending her hand. "Come on."

    Fu Yihan nced at her coldly, raising his arm so Gong Qi could help him onto the examination table.

    Although Gong Qi wasn¡¯t a doctor, she was very familiar with the equipment and devices here. Ever since Fu Yihan¡¯s injury, she and Qin Chuan had been the ones setting up this ce, so she naturally understood it well.

    As the familiar images appeared on theputer screen, Gong Qi said nothing.

    "How is it?" Fu Yihan asked, his tone carrying a hint of urgency.

    Gong Qi sighed slowly and shook her head: "No changes."

    Fu Yihan frowned: "Butst night, when I stood up, I distinctly felt¡ªif only for a moment¡ªthat my leg hurt."

    "Hurt?" Gong Qi looked at him, surprised. "Are you sure you didn¡¯t imagine it?"

    Fu Yihan nodded firmly: "No, it hurt."

    For his leg, which had been without sensation for so long, that brief moment of pain had etched itself clearly into Fu Yihan¡¯s memory.

    "Pain..." Gong Qi stared at theputer screen thoughtfully. "Let¡¯s do another test. This time, let¡¯s be more thorough."

    "Alright."

    The two of them worked for another hour, and Gong Qi stared at the screen, her lips trembling slightly.

    "How is it?" Fu Yihan asked again.

    Suddenly, Gong Qi mmed her hand on the table and eximed excitedly, "It¡¯s working!"

    "What?" Fu Yihan eagerly pushed his wheelchair closer to examine theputer screen.

    The issue with Fu Yihan¡¯s leg was necrosis of the bone.

    For years, the scans had shown no changes.

    But this was the first time there had been changes.

    Even though it was a tiny area, no bigger than a fingernail, to these two who had been scrutinizing the scans for years, it was unmistakable.

    "Well done! We¡¯ve studied this for so long without sess, so how did this happen?" Gong Qi turned to Fu Yihan with excitement in her voice.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved faintly upward, a quiet smile emerging: "It wasn¡¯t my research."

    "Then whose?"

    Smiling even more deeply, Fu Yihan turned his head and looked at the knee pads ced on the table. With a light chuckle, he murmured, "A benefactor."

    "A benefactor?" Following his gaze, Gong Qi noticed the gentle look in his eyes and suddenly understood, teasing, "Looks like your wife was a pretty good choice after all."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t refute, raising his hand to gesture: "Bring me the knee pads."

    "...Alright, boss."

    Gong Qi grabbed the knee pads and helped Fu Yihan put them on.

    As she worked, she couldn¡¯t help but mutterints.

    "These knee pads are so ugly. How are you even okay with wearing them?"

    "Goodness, what kind of weird way are they strapped on?"

    "..."

 Chapter 176 - 179 Hope

    <h4>Chapter 176: Chapter 179 Hope</h4>

    Fu Yihan shot him a cold nce but said nothing.

    After some effort tying the knee brace in ce, Gong Qi stood up with a sigh of relief. "Although the X-rays show some changes, we still need to confirm with Qin Chuan."

    "Mm."

    Fu Yihan nodded. "Let¡¯s go now."

    "Now?"

    "Or else?"

    Seeing Fu Yihan¡¯s matter-of-fact expression, Gong Qi sighed helplessly. "Alright, now it is."

    ...

    Su Qingnuan was busy with work when the phone started ringing incessantly.

    Unable to ignore it anymore, she picked up and snapped, "Who is it?"

    There was silence on the other end for a moment, followed by a familiar voice.

    "Me."

    Just hearing the voice made Su Qingnuan pause for a second before she quickly recognized who it was. She immediately nced at the caller ID.

    "...Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan¡¯s tone softened instantly, and she forced a ttering smile. "What brings you to call me?"

    "Busy?" the voice on the other end asked.

    Su Qingnuan stared at the mountain of documents piled up on her desk but smiled insincerely. "Not too bad."

    "I¡¯ll pick you up after work."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan was momentarily taken aback. "Aren¡¯t you noting to thepany today?"

    Before she finished her sentence, the call abruptly ended.

    He¡¯s still the same.

    Su Qingnuan shook her head helplessly, sighed lightly, put her phone away, and continued working diligently.

    As an overworked employee, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t realize it was the end of her workday until Fu Yihan¡¯s call reminded her.

    "Why aren¡¯t you downstairs yet?"

    Hearing those words, Su Qingnuan instinctively nced at the clock. Ten minutes had already passed.

    She quickly grabbed her belongings and hurriedly said, "I¡¯ming down right now."

    The call was once again cut off abruptly.

    Su Qingnuan called out to Gu Xiaoxiao from afar, "Xiaoxiao, something urgent hase up; I¡¯m heading down now."

    "Alright, go ahead."

    She rushed to the elevator, her heart pounding wildly in her chest, as if it were about to leap out.

    Pressing a hand to her chest, Su Qingnuan tried to steady her breathing inside the elevator.

    As she jogged out of the building, she spotted the familiar car parked nearby and quickly walked over.

    Opening the back seat door, she was greeted by that cold and familiar face. Catching her breath, she addressed him, "Mr. Fu."

    Fu Yihan turned to look at her, noticing her paleplexion as she stood by the car door, one hand pressed against her chest.

    Something seemed to cross his mind, and his voice turned cold. "You ran here?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan got into the car and nodded. "Yeah! I didn¡¯t want to waste time."

    Does she not know her own condition? And yet she still ran?

    Fu Yihan¡¯s expression darkened again.

    Not understanding the reason behind his mood, Su Qingnuan noticed the sudden heavy atmosphere in the car and dared not speak further.

    After she got in, the driver started the car.

    Noticing the car heading in the opposite direction, Su Qingnuan was full of questions, but when her gaze met Fu Yihan¡¯s, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to say anything.

    Fu Yihan kept staring at her, making Su Qingnuan too nervous to lift her head.

    "Does your chest hurt?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan turned to him, staring nkly.

    Raising an eyebrow, Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze dropped to her right hand, which was still pressed against her chest.

    Flustered, Su Qingnuan withdrew her hand quickly and smiled. "It doesn¡¯t hurt."

    It really didn¡¯t hurt¡ªthings had just gotten too rushed earlier, and her heart had been racing.

    Seeing herplexion return to normal and her face no longer as pale, Fu Yihan nodded slightly. "Mm. No matter how urgent it is in the future, don¡¯t run."

    What?

    Su Qingnuan turned her head and stared at Fu Yihan¡¯s icy profile for a while before hesitantly asking, "Mr. Fu, are you worried about me?"

    He didn¡¯t respond, instead bending forward to grab a bottle of water from the frontpartment and handing it to her.

    "Drink."

    "...Alright."

    Opening the bottle, Su Qingnuan snuck nces at Fu Yihan from the corner of her eye.

    His expression remained stoic, unchanging, but his ears had turned red.

    So, did she guess right?

    Were his ears always this red, or was there another reason?

    Su Qingnuan stared at his ears for a while, unable to figure it out.

    Just then, Fu Yihan turned his head abruptly and red at her.

    "What are you looking at?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan quickly lowered her head and muttered, "I was just looking."

    Purely looking, with no other intentions.

    Clearly, Fu Yihan didn¡¯t buy her exnation and kept ring at her.

    Unable to bear his piercing gaze, Su Qingnuan turned her eyes elsewhere in defeat.

    Just as Fu Yihan watched her bow her head in what looked like remorse, the car came to an abrupt stop.

    "Eldest Young Master, we¡¯ve arrived."

    Fu Yihan finally withdrew his gaze and said coolly, "Get out."

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly stepped out of the car.

    She was just about to circle around the car to push Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair but noticed there was another car parked behind theirs.

    Qin Chuan and Gong Qi stepped out of that car, with Gong Qi cheerfully waving. "Sis-inw."

    This term...

    Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly and nodded. "Hello."

    Compared to Gong Qi¡¯s enthusiasm, Qin Chuan was far more indifferent, giving her a faint nod before walking toward Fu Yihan.

    With those two around, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t get the chance to push the wheelchair.

    Thinking this, Su Qingnuan slowed her pace.

    But when she made her way closer and saw Fu Yihan¡¯s empty wheelchair behind him, with the other two walking ahead, she couldn¡¯t help but quicken her steps.

    Seeing her lingering behind, Fu Yihan frowned. "Why¡¯re you moving so slowly?"

    Startled, Su Qingnuan hurried over and replied with augh, "I was just replying to a message."

    Fu Yihan said nothing, merely ncing at the wheelchair handles.

    Su Qingnuan understood and pushed the wheelchair forward.

    Catching up to the two men ahead, Su Qingnuan asked curiously, "Where are we heading now?"

    "Qin Chuan said he¡¯s treating us to dinner today, Sis-inw."

    Qin Chuan is treating them to dinner?

    Su Qingnuan turned her curious gaze toward Qin Chuan, her eyes full of questions.

    But Qin Chuan ignored her curiosity and simply walked ahead at his own pace.

    Watching him pick up speed, Su Qingnuan felt a little helpless¡ªshe was pushing someone, after all!

    "Don¡¯t bother keeping up with him," Fu Yihan suddenly said, his icy tone devoid of emotion. "We¡¯ll take it slow; we¡¯ll get there eventually."

    "Exactly!" Gong Qi chimed in with augh, "Let him go ahead and order the dishes."

    Watching Qin Chuan¡¯s distant figure disappear further, alongside the rxed attitudes of the other two, Su Qingnuan also gradually slowed her pace.

    They were passing through a dense forest, where sunlight scattered through the gaps in the trees, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

    "Sis-inw," Gong Qi leaned closer with a meaningful nce toward Fu Yihan¡¯s legs. "I heard from Yihan that you can treat his condition?"

    From Fu Yihan?

    Su Qingnuan turned to look at Fu Yihan. However, from her angle, she could only see the back of his head, not his face.

    "Not exactly..." Su Qingnuan said awkwardly. "I¡¯m not even sure if it¡¯ll work, but there¡¯s always room to try, right? You never know."

    "True." Gong Qi nodded, smiling faintly. "Though I¡¯ve noticed Yihan seems quite willing to give your method a try. Go for it, Sis-inw."

    "Thanks." Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "I appreciate the support."

 Chapter 177 Research

    <h4>Chapter 177: Chapter 177 Research</h4>

    "Why so polite?" Gong Qi looked toward Fu Yihan thoughtfully, and with a faint smile, said, "If you¡¯re freeter, sister-inw, you should stay in touch with us more often."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, unable to respond before being interrupted by the clink of a wine ss.

    "Why would she stay in touch with you?" Fu Yihan retorted irritably. "To give you more chances to bully her?"

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan lowered her head in embarrassment.

    Though her personality was rtively mild-mannered, it didn¡¯t mean she would let just anyone push her around. At least, once her bottom line was crossed, she refused to endure it anymore.

    Just like those people from the Su family.

    "Actually, I¡¯m not really..."

    "How could it be bullying?" Gong Qi quickly rified. "When we talk with sister-inw, it¡¯s all pleasant and friendly conversation. Yihan, yourment just now is really uncalled for."

    "Hmph!" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow indifferently, his gazending on Gong Qi. "Don¡¯t think I¡¯m unaware of your sneaky little ns."

    Gong Qi coughed awkwardly and muttered, "At least give me some face."

    "No," came the cold and merciless reply, still very much the Fu Yihan everyone knew.

    Gong Qi shook his head helplessly, deciding not to bring up the matter again.

    The three of them strolled leisurely along a shaded path, soon arriving at a ss-constructed hotel.

    Standing at the entrance of the hotel were many people, neat and orderly in two rows.

    As they approached, both rows bowed and loudly eximed, "Wee!"

    The grandeur of this setup... was slightly over the top.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but quicken her pace as she pushed Fu Yihan¡¯s wheelchair.

    Once inside the lobby, someone promptly approached them.

    "Mr. Fu, Mr. Gong, Mr. Qin Chuan has been waiting for you inside."

    Fu Yihan responded with a soft "Hmm" and nced at Gong Qi.

    Gong Qi nodded and took the lead, while Su Qingnuan hurried to keep up.

    They entered the elevator and pressed for the top floor.

    The atmosphere felt somewhat tense. Su Qingnuan nced at one person and then at the other, eventually lowering her head in silence.

    "Ding¡ª"

    The elevator stopped.

    Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan out of the elevator.

    It was yet another grand lobby, with two attendants stationed by the elevator doors.

    The moment they stepped out, the attendants approached and led the way.

    Even before dining, Su Qingnuan already sensed that this meal was going to be remarkably expensive.

    After navigating past a ring-shaped lobby, the attendant opened a door and smiled, "Here we are, pleasee in."

    Gong Qi entered first, followed by Su Qingnuan, who was pushing Fu Yihan.

    "What took you so long?"

    As soon as they stepped inside, Qin Chuan¡¯s impatient voice rang out. He was seated in a chair, idly fiddling with his phone.

    Gong Qi chuckled lightly. "Have you ordered yet? We made sure to leave you the opportunity to shine."

    Rolling his eyes in exasperation, Qin Chuan replied coldly, "Oh, cut it out. You just want me to foot the bill."

    Gong Qi blinked a few times, smiling faintly. "Isn¡¯t that your job today?"

    "..."

    Rendered speechless, Qin Chuan turned to look at Fu Yihan.

    Meanwhile, Su Qingnuan was busy maneuvering the wheelchair forward, positioning Fu Yihan by the dining table.

    Noticing her efforts, Qin Chuan frowned slightly.

    "That wheelchair is too low¡ªwhy not just sit in a regr chair instead."

    With that, Qin Chuan stood up, and he and Gong Qi worked together to transfer Fu Yihan onto a standard chair. Su Qingnuan finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    Seeing beads of sweat on her forehead, Fu Yihan handed her a tissue.

    Su Qingnuan epted it with a cheerful smile.

    The harmonious atmosphere between the two was drastically different from their initial meeting.

    The gentleness in Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes and his considerate, albeit subtle actions revealed his current state of mind.

    Gong Qi propped his chin on his hand, leisurely observing the two with amusement.

    On the other hand, Qin Chuan red at Su Qingnuan with what seemed like hostility.

    While wiping her sweat, Su Qingnuan could feel a heated gaze fixated on her. She nced over instinctively.

    Meeting Qin Chuan¡¯s eyes, she froze for a moment.

    Why did she see jealousy?

    "Hmph!" Qin Chuan scoffed coldly and withdrew his gaze, visibly displeased.

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    "Qin Chuan." Fu Yihan spoke with a slightly sharper tone.

    Qin Chuan said nothing, picking up the menu instead. "I¡¯ve already ordered a few dishes; take a look yourselves to see if there¡¯s anything else to add."

    "Okay, okay! Let me have a look."

    Gong Qi took the menu and started humorouslymenting on the dish names, breaking the tension from earlier.

    During dinner, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t say much, focusing mainly on her meal.

    It wasn¡¯t until she heard her own name that she looked up in mild confusion at the others.

    "Sister-inw, you must¡¯ve been starving," Gong Qi teased, half-smirking as he looked at her.

    Feeling slightly embarrassed, Su Qingnuan put her chopsticks down and grinned awkwardly.

    Before she could think of how to respond, a piece of meat suddenlynded in her bowl.

    "If you¡¯re hungry, eat more." Fu Yihan¡¯s serious tone and expression made the simple sentence unexpectedly endearing.

    Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan, then at Gong Qi seated nearby, and ultimately decided to continue eating quietly with her chopsticks.

    Completely unaware that she was being watched by two others.

    Gong Qi smiled meaningfully, his gaze shifting back and forth between Fu Yihan and Su Qingnuan.

    "Yihan, still so protective?" Gong Qi asked with a yful smile.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond, calmly chewing his food.

    The two weren¡¯t ones to rush a conversation, often speaking indirectly, leaving their intentions implied and unspoken.

    However, the third person at the table had a much more direct temperament.

    Qin Chuan set his chopsticks down and looked at Fu Yihan seriously.

    "So, what¡¯s your n now?"

    Fu Yihan nced at him nonchntly. "n for what?"

    "Your legs! Since there¡¯s hope, we should fully cooperate with the treatment."

    At these words, the private room fell into an awkward silence.

    Gong Qi gave Qin Chuan a helpless look, frustrated by his bluntness. "This isn¡¯t something that can be resolved in a day or two; why are you in such a hurry?"

    "After waiting for so long, isn¡¯t progress worth being anxious about?" Qin Chuan asked incredulously.

    Gong Qi didn¡¯t respond, his gaze instead falling thoughtfully on Su Qingnuan.

    Having heard mention of leg progress, Su Qingnuan had already stopped eating.

    Noticing the attention on her, Su Qingnuan looked up.

    Beside her, Fu Yihan continued eating at his usual, deliberate pace, as though the conversation didn¡¯t concern him.

    Meanwhile, Qin Chuan¡¯s intense stare was fixed directly on her.

    Su Qingnuan gave an uneasyugh. "Uh, pardon me, but can I confirm¡ªare you talking about Yihan¡¯s legs?"

    "Yes." Gong Qi nodded with a faint smile. "Yihan went for a follow-up exam today and found signs of bone healing."

    "Really?" Su Qingnuan turned to Fu Yihan with surprise and joy. "Mr. Fu, does this mean your legs have hope?"

    Only then did Fu Yihan set his chopsticks down, responding calmly. "They still need further observation."

    It was unclear whether the result was due to the medicine Su Qingnuan had provided or some natural variation after such a long time.

 Chapter 178 Collaboration

    <h4>Chapter 178: Chapter 178 Coboration</h4>

    "Take another look?" Su Qingnuan put down her chopsticks and asked quizzically, "Does that mean it¡¯s still not confirmed yet?"

    Gong Qi nodded. "Yeah, we need to wait a few more days for another checkup."

    Su Qingnuan nodded knowingly and thoughtfully turned to Fu Yihan. "Then, Mr. Fu, why not take me with you next time you go for a checkup?"

    Fu Yihan paused for a moment, then nodded. "Alright."

    "Look at this, such a newlywed couple!" Gong Qi teased. "So lovey-dovey, even a checkup has to be done together."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheeks flushed slightly as she unconsciously nced at Fu Yihan.

    He showed no expression, quietly eating his meal.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare say anything further and focused on her meal.

    She ate seriously, but others clearly weren¡¯t taking it as seriously.

    "Yihan, why don¡¯t you stay in the hospital for the next few days? It would make observation easier." Qin Chuan suddenly suggested.

    "No."

    The response was as curt as ever, leaving Qin Chuan exasperated. "Why are you still so stubborn? Wouldn¡¯t having people look after you at all times in the hospital be better?"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, his tone cold. "It¡¯s not better."

    "..."

    Rendered speechless, Qin Chuan turned to Gong Qi for help.

    Gong Qi, however, merely smirked mischievously and said nothing.

    "You¡¯reughing?" Qin Chuan frowned. "Come on, think of something!"

    Gong Qi shrugged, helpless. "What can I possibly do? Are you just now realizing how bad his temper is?"

    Qin Chuan furrowed his brows, his gaze drifting to Fu Yihan, who remainedposed and unbothered. Almost instinctively, his eyesnded on Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan, still earnestly eating, suddenly felt a pair of intense eyes on her, prompting her to look up.

    Meeting Qin Chuan¡¯s gaze, she froze briefly.

    "Is there something on my face?" she asked, puzzled.

    Fu Yihan tilted his head and nced nonchntly at Qin Chuan. "Nothing, just keep eating."

    Qin Chuan: "..."

    "Fu Yihan!" Qin Chuan called out in frustration.

    Fu Yihan remained unmoved, cing another dish on Su Qingnuan¡¯s te. "Eat."

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    Under Qin Chuan¡¯s smoldering gaze, how could Su Qingnuan focus on eating?

    Putting down her chopsticks, Su Qingnuan sighed lightly. "I feel like... treating an illness isn¡¯t something that can be rushed, right?"

    "Exactly." Gong Qi chimed in. "You can¡¯t rush it. Besides, if there¡¯s noticeable improvement, it shows Yihan¡¯s current environment is good. Why force him to go to the hospital?"

    Qin Chuan frowned, ring at him.

    "Why are you looking at me? I¡¯m just stating facts, aren¡¯t I, sister-inw?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan nodded awkwardly. "Yeah... that¡¯s true."

    Qin Chuan¡¯s expression darkened even further, ring at Gong Qi as though he were a ferocious beast.

    Gong Qi sighed faintly. "Staring at me won¡¯t help. If I could fix this, would I be sitting here wasting time?"

    Qin Chuan withdrew his gaze and let out a helpless sigh.

    Initially, Su Qingnuan hadn¡¯t given this matter much thought, but as Qin Chuan¡¯s eyes lingered, she began to feel guilty.

    ncing at the calm figure beside her, Su Qingnuan softly asked, "Honestly, Yihan, I think you could at least consider it. Qin Chuan¡¯s doing it for your own good."

    His chopsticks froze midair. Fu Yihan raised his eyes and quietly looked at Su Qingnuan.

    Noticing things turning south, Su Qingnuan furrowed her brow slightly. "But we should also respect Yihan¡¯s wishes. If he doesn¡¯t like the idea, we shouldn¡¯t push it."

    "Exactly." Gong Qi grinned in agreement. "I don¡¯t think Yihan is particrly fond of going. Let¡¯s just let it go."

    Qin Chuan: "..."

    Su Qingnuan fell silent again, quickly lowering her head to resume eating.

    "Yihan?" Qin Chuan pressed on, unwilling to give up. "You¡¯re really not going?"

    Fu Yihan looked at the woman burying herself in her food, the corners of his lips lifting slightly. "Not going."

    "..."

    This time, Qin Chuan finally gave up, dropping the topic entirely.

    After the four of them finished eating, Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan were the first to leave.

    Staring daggers at the now-empty doorway, Qin Chuan gritted his teeth. "What a stubborn mule!"

    "You¡¯ve known him forever. Don¡¯t you know by now that once he¡¯s made up his mind, nothing can change it?" Gong Qi remarkedzily. "We could be worried sick, but it won¡¯t help. This problem will only be solved when he cares enough to solve it himself."

    Qin Chuan snorted coldly. "Waiting for him to have an epiphany? Might as well wait for pigs to fly."

    "Well..." Gong Qi smirked knowingly. "It may have been impossible before, but now..."

    "What is it?" Qin Chuan pressed eagerly.

    Gong Qi chuckled. "Now, there might actually be someone who can persuade him."

    "Who?"

    "Over there!" Gong Qi motioned toward the empty doorway with his lips. "Weren¡¯t we just talking about her?"

    "Su Yuerou?" Qin Chuan was stunned. "She can do it?"

    Gong Qi raised an eyebrow. "How will you know if you don¡¯t try?"

    "..."

    Qin Chuan fell silent, staring skeptically at Gong Qi.

    But Gong Qi wasn¡¯t in any rush, sitting there leisurely as he waited.

    After what seemed like an eternity, Qin Chuan finally spoke.

    "Then let¡¯s try?"

    Gong Qi smiled and stood up. "Alright, let¡¯s give it a shot."

    ...

    After leaving the hotel, Su Qingnuan and Fu Yihan naturally headed home.

    On the way back, Su Qingnuan kept observing Fu Yihan. Seeing his expressionless face, she couldn¡¯t help but quietly ask, "Mr. Fu, why don¡¯t you want to go to the hospital for observation?"

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes, looking at her with a meaningful gaze. "Do you think I should stay in the hospital?"

    "No." Su Qingnuan chuckled awkwardly. "I just think that being under professional care might yield better results?"

    "It wouldn¡¯t." Fu Yihan looked away, his tone detached. "I stayed there before; it didn¡¯t help."

    "...It didn¡¯t help?" Su Qingnuan asked, confused. "But didn¡¯t they say there was progress?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled slightly. "It had nothing to do with the hospital."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked even more puzzled. "Nothing to do with the hospital? Then...?"

    Suddenly recalling her knee brace, Su Qingnuan¡¯s confused expression turned to one of delight.

    "Could it be... my knee brace worked?"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, giving her a look filled with intrigue. "What do you think?"

    Under his cryptic gaze, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t figure him out, but she felt her guess was probably right.

    "Mr. Fu, let me take another look when we get back!" Su Qingnuan said excitedly.

    Fu Yihan nodded. "Alright."

    Receiving his approval, Su Qingnuan grew even more ted.

    Excitement almost made her want to jump for joy.

    Luckily, the car stopped soon after. Unable to contain her eagerness, Su Qingnuan quickly got out and waited to help Fu Yihan inside.

    Noticing her excitement, Fu Yihan said nothing.

    Once out of the car, Su Qingnuan pushed Fu Yihan straight back to their room.

    Stopping in the small sitting area inside, Su Qingnuan knelt down.

    "Let me check your leg first."

    With that, she reached out and rolled up his pant leg.

    The mottled scars came into view, but Su Qingnuan paid them no mind. Her eyes were fixed on the knee brace.

 Chapter 179: Hope on the Plains

    <h4>Chapter 179: Chapter 179: Hope on the ins</h4>

    Fu Yihan lowered his eyes, watching as her pale hand carefully touched his mottled leg.

    "It seems like the medicine is working." Su Qingnuan¡¯s lips curved into a smile, her eyes filled with joy. "Mr. Fu, please wait a moment. I¡¯ll give you an acupuncture treatment."

    "Acupuncture?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "Right now?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded and stood up quickly. "I wanted to give Mr. Fu an acupuncture treatment to stimte the leg before, but I never found the chance. Now that there seems to be some effect, the acupuncture might be useful."

    "Alright." Fu Yihan nodded, "You can go ahead."

    Su Qingnuan ran into the small study, took out her tools, and squatted back down.

    "There¡¯s medicine on this needle, it might hurt a bit. Mr. Fu, you¡¯ll need to bear with it."

    Fu Yihan nodded, responding with a simple "Mm".

    When her needle touched Fu Yihan¡¯s skin, there was no reaction from him.

    Su Qingnuan looked up, her clear eyes encouraging. "Mr. Fu, I¡¯m starting now."

    "Mm."

    The needle slowly pierced the flesh, Su Qingnuan¡¯s movements were slow, making the stinging painst.

    Fu Yihan gripped the wheelchair¡¯s armrest, his fingers tightened.

    When the first needle was inserted correctly, Su Qingnuan looked up to check Fu Yihan¡¯s expression and saw a thin sweat on his forehead.

    "Does it hurt?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Fu Yihan shook his head, his face unchanged.

    For the rest of the needles, Fu Yihan still showed no reaction, not even making a sound.

    Having tried the acupuncture herself before, Su Qingnuan knew the pain and soreness weren¡¯t easy to bear, even making her cry out.

    Yet, Fu Yihan could remain perfectly still through it, showing remarkable endurance.

    "Mr. Fu, if it hurts, let me know. You don¡¯t need to endure it." Su Qingnuan spoke cautiously.

    Fu Yihan shook his head, smiled lightly, and said, "It¡¯s fine, you can continue."

    Seeing the sweat on his forehead, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t continue the acupuncture.

    Taking a clean towel, Su Qingnuan wiped the sweat from his forehead.

    "It¡¯s okay, let¡¯s rest for a bit first."

    She wiped the sweat meticulously, as if handling a precious antique, her movements gentle.

    In his eyes, an unusual light flickered, and his hand rxed unconsciously.

    Su Qingnuan sat beside him, waiting until Fu Yihan looked morefortable before daring to continue the acupuncture.

    It took two hours, and by the time the needles were removed, Fu Yihan was drenched in sweat, as if he¡¯d just climbed out of water.

    "Mr. Fu, please sit for a while. I¡¯ll run some hot water for you. You need to soak in it now."

    "Mm."

    Su Qingnuan turned to the bathroom, while Fu Yihan lowered his head, looking at his mottled leg.

    He hadn¡¯t experienced pain for a long time. Although the pain today was unpleasant, it allowed him to truly feel that his leg still existed.

    Fu Yihan took a deep breath, couldn¡¯t help but squeeze his leg.

    Still, there was little sensation, as if the pain hadn¡¯t happened earlier.

    It¡¯s fine, he¡¯s waited so many years, there¡¯s no hurry now.

    Thinking of this, Fu Yihan couldn¡¯t help but smile slightly.

    ...

    Su Qingnuan finished running the water and came out to see Fu Yihan examining his leg closely with his head down.

    "Mr. Fu, don¡¯t worry. Feeling pain means there¡¯s still sensation in the leg." Su Qingnuan consoled with a smile, "After soaking in the hot water, it might feel a bit swollen and ufortable. You¡¯ll need to endure it."

    "Okay." Fu Yihan nodded.

    Su Qingnuan helped push Fu Yihan into the bathroom, then stepped out.

    Standing at the bathroom door, Su Qingnuan sighed in relief, nning to freshen up first and check on Fu Yihan afterwards, but she was startled by a loud noise from behind.

    "Bang¡ª¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan turned back abruptly, looking at the suddenly darkened bathroom.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan hurried over, "Are you okay?"

    There was no response from inside.

    Could something have happened?

    Su Qingnuan rushed to the door, opened it, but didn¡¯t see A Qi at the door, and couldn¡¯t help but raise her voice, "A Qi¡ª¡ª"

    She called at the door for a while, but no one answered.

    What to do?

    Su Qingnuan bit her lip, closed the door, and headed toward the bathroom.

    Pushing open the bathroom door, a wave of heat hit her.

    In the dark bathroom, Su Qingnuan could only see vague shadows through the outside light.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked nervously, "Are you alright?"

    She saw a shadow on the ground move slowly, followed by a gritted voice, "Get out!"

    "Can you manage by yourself? I went to call A Qi, but he¡¯s not here."

    "Get out!"

    "...Alright then."

    Su Qingnuan quickly closed the door.

    However, there was no sound from inside for a long time, making Su Qingnuan press her ear against the door, unable to help speaking again.

    "Mr. Fu, are you okay?"

    No answer came.

    Recalling Fu Yihan¡¯s earlier expression, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but open the door again.

    The heat was less this time, and Su Qingnuan squinted. "Mr. Fu, I¡¯ve reconsidered, I¡¯ming in to help you. Don¡¯t worry! I¡¯ll keep my eyes closed."

    "Hiss¡ª¡ª"

    A painful gasp was heard, and Fu Yihan turned his head, seeing a figure slowly approaching.

    "Stop!"

    Su Qingnuan paused, asking puzzled, "What happened?"

    "Just stay there." Fu Yihan gritted his teeth, "I can handle it myself."

    Su Qingnuan stood still, but after waiting for a long time, only the sticky sound of water could be heard, with no movement.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked again.

    This time there was no sound from that direction.

    Su Qingnuan frowned, "Mr. Fu, are you okay?"

    "...Come over."

    Finally, a sound, and Su Qingnuan quickly moved towards it.

    But with her eyes closed, she couldn¡¯t tell directions.

    When she stepped on something, it was toote.

    Su Qingnuan tilted to the side, the wet floor losing its friction, causing her to fall directly to the ground.

    "Ugh¡ª¡ª"

    Strangely, it didn¡¯t hurt.

    Su Qingnuan raised her hand to support herself, but felt something soft and smooth...

    "What are you doing?" a gritted voice asked.

    Su Qingnuan quickly withdrew her hand, "Sorry...I didn¡¯t know what I stepped on just now."

    "Get up quickly!"

    Nervously, she raised her hand to sit up, the floor soaked, and her pants inevitably wet too.

    But now wasn¡¯t the time to worry about that.

    Su Qingnuan reached out her hand but didn¡¯t dare to move recklessly.

    "Mr. Fu, where should I hold you now?"

    "..."

    After a long silence, Fu Yihan finally moved his hand.

    Su Qingnuan, waiting for Fu Yihan¡¯s voice, instead felt a fine texture in her hand.

    "Help me up."

    "Okay."

    Su Qingnuan grasped his wrist and pulled him up with effort.

    With his other hand gripping something unknown, Fu Yihan was also exerting strength, so Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t use much force.

 Chapter 180: Skin Contact

    <h4>Chapter 180: Chapter 180: Skin Contact</h4>

    When the scorching body leaned closer, Su Qingnuan froze for a moment.

    But she quickly reacted and supported Fu Yihan, leading him outside.

    However, as she took a step forward, Fu Yihan behind her did not follow.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, "Please exert some strength, I¡¯ll help you out."

    "Hmm....."

    Though he responded, Su Qingnuan could sense no effort from Fu Yihan.

    It seemed the acupuncture had left his bones weak and sore, rendering himpletely without strength.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t me Fu Yihan and could only bite her teeth, exerting herself to drag him.

    The ground was slippery; with every step, Su Qingnuan could feel the slick surface beneath her feet, making her even more cautious.

    "Stop."

    A voice suddenly came from behind, and Su Qingnuan stopped, puzzled: "What¡¯s wrong?"

    "There¡¯s a door ahead."

    Su Qingnuan paused slightly, narrowing her eyes to look ahead.

    Faint light shone on the ss door, radiating rainbow-like hues.

    Finally, the door.

    Su Qingnuan let out a breath of relief and adjusted her grip on Fu Yihan.

    "Let¡¯s head out first."

    Struggling to free a hand, Su Qingnuan grabbed the door handle and pulled it open.

    When her eyes caught the light and her feet stepped onto the soft carpet, Su Qingnuan exhaled gently.

    "Mr. Fu, please bear with it; we¡¯re almost outside," Su Qingnuan said softly.

    After exiting the bathroom, Su Qingnuan realized that moving was far more difficult.

    The bathroom was slippery enough to drag him; outside, the carpet created resistance with every step, making dragging impossible.

    After hesitating for a moment, Su Qingnuan let him down.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, reflexively trying to turn her head but halted halfway.

    She remembered¡ªFu Yihan wasn¡¯t wearing clothes.

    Her head stiffened mid-turn, and Su Qingnuan cautiously asked, "Mr. Fu, are you alright?"

    "I¡¯m fine." Fu Yihan¡¯s voice sounded a bit muffled, and he raised a hand to nudge Su Qingnuan, "Go find A-Qi and check if he¡¯s back."

    After hesitating for a moment, Su Qingnuan nodded and ran outside.

    The hallway remained empty. Su Qingnuan jogged down the stairs, and from a distance, she spotted a familiar figure.

    "A-Qi!" Su Qingnuan shouted excitedly.

    A-Qi turned his head and met Su Qingnuan¡¯s gaze.

    "Young Madam."

    "Quickly!" Su Qingnuan urged, "Mr. Fu has fallen, I can¡¯t manage to get him out¡ªgo check."

    Upon hearing this, A-Qi quickly dashed upstairs, surpassing Su Qingnuan within moments.

    Su Qingnuan caught her breath and hurriedly sped up to follow.

    When she made it back to the room, she found A-Qi standing there respectfully, while Fu Yihan, who should have been lying on the ground, was sitting upright in a chair.

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s puzzled eyes darted back and forth between Fu Yihan and A-Qi.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "Are you alright now?"

    The skin on Fu Yihan¡¯s face was slightly red¡ªwhether from the lingering steam or suppressed anger, it was hard to say.

    "Where did you go?" His voice carried a trace of darkness, making the atmosphere feel suddenly tense.

    A-Qi lowered his head, cautiously replying, "The old master had matters to ry."

    Those few short words were enough to exin his whereabouts.

    Fu Yihan furrowed his brows but said nothing further, though his gaze on A-Qi remained icy.

    "I¡¯m sorry." A-Qi suddenly bowed and apologized to Fu Yihan.

    "Does an apology work?"

    The chilling tone sounded filled with impatience.

    Though they expected Fu Yihan to lose his temper, the degree of seriousness was surprising.

    Su Qingnuan watched as A-Qi kept his back bent, daring not to lift his head.

    What now?

    Speaking out now wasn¡¯t the right move, but staying silent didn¡¯t seem wise either.

    "You know what to do, right?" Fu Yihan spoke again.

    A-Qi nodded silently and retreated.

    As she watched A-Qi leave, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but nce at Fu Yihan.

    He sat there, his expression cold, exuding an unapproachable aura.

    Although he was wearing a shirt, his pants...

    After hesitating for a moment, Su Qingnuan tentatively spoke, "Mr. Fu, it¡¯s best not to expose your knees to the cold."

    The previously unresponsive man finally showed a reaction.

    Fu Yihan cast her a cold nce and then lifted his eyes, "Come here."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan walked over, picking up the pair of trousers lying on the bed as she did.

    "Here!" Su Qingnuan handed the trousers to Fu Yihan. "Your pants."

    Fu Yihan took them with a grim look and said nothing.

    Seeing hisck of action, Su Qingnuan finally asked, "Mr. Fu?"

    Fu Yihan raised his eyes and looked at Su Qingnuan.

    His gaze was deep, like a still pool, with no ripples or discernible emotion.

    He didn¡¯t seem angry or upset, so what was it?

    Fu Yihan stared at Su Qingnuan, his expression unreadable.

    His fingertips rubbed repeatedly against one another¡ªit seemed they still retained the smooth and warm sensation.

    Her earlier efforts to carry him out, herbored breathing, still echoed in his ears.

    "Su Qingnuan." Fu Yihan abruptly spoke.

    "Ah?"

    Fu Yihan raised his hand, "Come closer."

    Closer? Closer where?

    Though confused, Su Qingnuan followed his words and cautiously moved closer.

    Standing beside Fu Yihan, she asked softly, "Mr. Fu, what¡¯s wrong?"

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t answer, his eyes fixating on Su Qingnuan¡¯s arm.

    Following his gaze, Su Qingnuan grew increasingly puzzled.

    "Give me your hand." The man¡¯s tone was cold andmanding.

    Su Qingnuan nced at her pale, smooth arm before obediently stretching her hand out.

    As soon as she extended her hand, Fu Yihan grabbed it firmly¡ªthe strength of his grip was something Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t resist.

    Yes, that feeling was unmistakable¡ªsmooth and warm, carrying an unusual sense of security.

    Fu Yihan stared at Su Qingnuan intently, his gaze growing darker.

    Su Qingnuan looked at him in confusion, "Mr. Fu, what¡¯s wrong?"

    Fu Yihan said nothing and merely shot her a nce, his eyes revealing a trace of hostility.

    The underlying fierceness in his gaze startled Su Qingnuan, causing her to take a step back.

    That motion seemed to trigger something, and Fu Yihan abruptly tightened his grip on her hand.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan frowned, her eyes flitting between Fu Yihan and her own hand.

    "Why are you avoiding me?" Fu Yihan asked irritably.

    Su Qingnuan gave an awkward smile and replied softly, "It hurts..."

    Fu Yihan shot her a frosty nce before releasing her hand.

    "Leave. I need to change."

    Hearing his calm tone, Su Qingnuan nodded, "Alright."

    After leaving the room, Su Qingnuan nced down at her hand¡ªat some point, a red mark had appeared.

    It must have been caused by Fu Yihan earlier.

    Sighing with helplessness, Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t sure what to think or say.

    Some time passed before a voice came from within the room.

    "Come in."

    Su Qingnuan cautiously opened the door and stepped inside.

    By then, Fu Yihan had already changed into his loungewear and was quietly seated on a chair.

 Chapter 181: Thank You

    <h4>Chapter 181: Chapter 181: Thank You</h4>

    Su Qingnuan walked over, her voice gentle: "Mr. Fu, are you getting ready to rest?"

    "Mm."

    Fu Yihan extended his hand deftly.

    Su Qingnuan crouched down and supported Fu Yihan.

    She helped him onto the bed, tucked him in snugly, and only then turned to leave the room.

    "Where are you going?"

    Su Qingnuan froze slightly and turned back to look.

    Fu Yihan sat on the bed, his expression cold and emotionless.

    "...I¡¯m going to see if there¡¯s anything to eat. I¡¯m hungry."

    "Hungry?" Fu Yihan¡¯s brows furrowed again. "Didn¡¯t you just eat something?"

    "..." Su Qingnuan awkwardly touched her nose and lied against her conscience: "I guess I¡¯m just a little hungry."

    "...Go ahead."

    Su Qingnuan hastily nodded and gently closed the door behind her.

    The door was closed.

    Su Qingnuan leaned against it, her heart pounding wildly.

    Though she didn¡¯t want to admit it, with Fu Yihan in the room, it seemed unlikely she¡¯d be able to sleep anytime soon.

    Thinking of this, Su Qingnuan frowned.

    This unpredictable man¡ªwho knows if he¡¯ll actually manage to fall asleepter.

    Determined to wait until he slept, Su Qingnuan purposely went downstairs for some food, slowly passing the time until Fu Yihan finally dozed off. Only then did she reenter the room.

    The room was very quiet; Fu Yihany there,pletely still.

    Su Qingnuan moved cautiously to the edge of the bed and carefully climbed onto it.

    Though her movements were delicate, the slight dip in the mattress still caught the man¡¯s attention.

    Fu Yihan turned over, his face¡ªwhich had been facing away from Su Qingnuan¡ªnow rotated to face her directly.

    Su Qingnuan was startled and held her breath.

    Only after confirming that the man in front of her hadn¡¯t truly awakened did Su Qingnuan carefully distribute her weight across the bed and lie down.

    With a quiet sigh of relief, Su Qingnuan smiled and closed her eyes.

    "Snap¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan abruptly opened her eyes and looked down.

    Her arm suddenly had a hand resting on it¡ªit belonged to the supposedly sleeping man.

    As Su Qingnuan hesitated whether to move his hand, she felt pressure on her waist, apanied by a muffled groan.

    This was too much for Su Qingnuan to bear. She attempted to pry Fu Yihan¡¯s hand loose, but as soon as she removed it from one spot, it shifted to another¡ªalmost as if it had eyes of its own.

    After struggling for quite a while without sess, Su Qingnuan eventually gave up, copsing back onto her pillow. Ignoring the two meddlesome hands, she closed her eyes.

    The sound of steady breathing filled the room. Su Qingnuan tilted her head, her sleeping face serene.

    What she didn¡¯t know was that, hidden in the darkness, a pair of bright eyes had suddenly opened, quietly watching her.

    The moonlight was faint, the cool breeze gentle. The heavy, flowing curtains swayed with the wind, tracing out perfect curves.

    The man¡¯s profile, bathed in moonlight, glimmered with a silvery glow¡ªas if he were an angel descended to earth.

    His dark, shining eyes fixed steadily on Su Qingnuan until, as the moonlight retreated and left the room in silence, they finally closed slowly.

    ...

    The next morning, Su Qingnuan awoke to find she had already overslept past her rm.

    Suddenly sitting upright, Su Qingnuan then realized that the person who should have been lying beside her had vanished without a trace.

    With no time to waste, Su Qingnuan abandoned her thoughts, got up, and headed to the bathroom.

    But as soon as she pushed open the bathroom door, she found someone inside¡ªbrushing his teeth, looking impatiently at her.

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly and quickly waved her hand: "Mr. Fu, sorry about that! I didn¡¯t mean to intrude."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and nced at the doorframe.

    Su Qingnuan caught his meaning, pulled the door shut, and smiled lightly: "Carry on."

    With that, she shut the door and went to an outer washroom.

    After hurrying through her grooming routine, Su Qingnuan dressed neatly and prepared to leave.

    "You¡¯re heading to work today?" Fu Yihan scanned Su Qingnuan, asking casually.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled: "I¡¯m on duty today."

    Theirpany was generallyid-back, but on duty days, early starts andte finishes were a necessity.

    Such a massive system couldn¡¯t be left unattended.

    Fu Yihan nodded in understanding. "What time do you get off tonight?"

    Su Qingnuan paused, pondering for a moment before replying: "If all goes smoothly, probably nine o¡¯clock."

    However, if any trouble arose before clocking out, the timing could be uncertain.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t say anything further, silently eating his breakfast.

    Once she finished her rushed meal, Su Qingnuan asked Ah Qi to take her to the office.

    The workce was lively with greetings, and seeing Su Qingnuan, some even dared to tease her boldly.

    After spending more than a month here, Su Qingnuan had grasped the social dynamic. She responded to those jokes with light smiles but no words.

    "Qingnuan, you¡¯re working overtime at thepany tonight. Just make sure not to run into anything fun."

    Su Qingnuan froze and looked at the speaker, puzzled: "What fun are you talking about?"

    The other person smiled mysteriously and turned away.

    This wasn¡¯t the first time Su Qingnuan had heard such remarks. Apparently, every intern doing their first shift, without exception, encountered simr urrences.

    Though most people had be ustomed to it, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help turning over the possibilities in her mind, imagining what might happen.

    "What are you thinking about?"

    Su Qingnuan looked up, meeting Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s amused gaze, and sighed: "You know I¡¯m on duty tonight, right?"

    "Of course I know." Gu Xiaoxiao nodded and chuckled. "What are you afraid of? The supervisor is on duty tonight too."

    "The supervisor is also working tonight?" Su Qingnuan asked in surprise, ncing toward the office. "Why is he on duty?"

    Ever since thest incident, their supervisor hadn¡¯t been as talkative as before, adopting a "less talk, more action" style. On most days, he barely spoke a few words, entirely different from his earlier demeanor.

    Gu Xiaoxiao waved dismissively, pouting: "How would I know? But judging by his attitude, he seems unwilling to leave us newbies on our own."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan breathed a sigh of relief.

    "That¡¯s good¡ªat least I won¡¯t be working alone."

    During the day, it didn¡¯t feel like anything special. But as her colleagues packed up to leave, Su Qingnuan nced at the clock and sighed: "How does time pass so slowly?"

    Night descended, and the office lights gradually came on.

    To save electricity, Su Qingnuan kept the lights off in areas she didn¡¯t need.

    The incandescent bulb overhead shone brightly.

    Seated at her workstation, Su Qingnuanzily reviewed some documents.

    These were papers she¡¯d already gone through during the day, but she needed to organize them again¡ªmaking the process feel somewhat monotonous.

    "Waaaahhhhhh¡ª"

    Su Qingnuan suddenly turned her head and looked toward the office door.

    Dim lighting reflected off the doorframe, beyond whichy fluffy carpet and an expanse of endless rugs. There was no one there.

    Strange...

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, sitting upright and refocusing on her files.

    "Waaaahhh... I want mommy..."

    The sound of a child crying reached her ears, this time crystal clear.

    This was an office building¡ªwhy would there be children here?

    Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, steeling herself as she headed for the door.

 Chapter 182: Shock

    <h4>Chapter 182: Chapter 182: Shock</h4>

    She gradually approached the door, inching closer to the dimly lit hallway.

    The hallway lights were voice-activated; only her speaking could break the silence outside.

    But at this moment, Su Qingnuan was extremely nervous, so nervous that she dared not utter a single word.

    Her hand touched the door, the icy coldness restoring a sliver of rationality to Su Qingnuan.

    "Sob... sob..."

    Her footsteps paused slightly as the crying grew closer.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s throat shifted as she swallowed her saliva.

    Her gaze sharpened, turning toward the door.

    Outside the door was the empty hallway, at the end of whichy imprable darkness.

    Su Qingnuan leaned against the doorframe, squinting her eyes to look into the distance.

    "Who¡¯s there?"

    The crying abruptly stopped as the hallway lights flickered to life.

    Like a carousel of lights, they shed one after another, all the way from this end to the hallway¡¯s farthest point.

    A shadow darted past the elevator entrance in the distance.

    The shadow appeared small and short, its true form unrecognizable.

    "Who¡¯s there?" Su Qingnuan shouted harshly.

    As soon as her voice dropped, the shadow moved faster, disappearing in the blink of an eye.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan rushed forward in pursuit.

    But after running only a few steps, she stopped abruptly.

    Gripping her violently pounding chest, Su Qingnuan resented her body deeply¡ªhow could it be so weak?

    "Su Qingnuan?" A doubtful voice came from behind her.

    Su Qingnuan turned to look back and saw the supervisor standing there with her bag, staring at Su Qingnuan in puzzlement.

    Su Qingnuan immediately stood up straight, greeting respectfully, "Good evening, Supervisor."

    The supervisor gave her a nce before looking into the distance, smiling faintly. "What are you doing here?"

    "I... I¡¯m on duty."

    After thinking for a moment, Su Qingnuan chose not to mention what she¡¯d just seen.

    "Stay inside while you¡¯re on duty. It¡¯s cold now; turn the heating up for yourself," the supervisor said sternly.

    Su Qingnuan nodded quickly. "Alright."

    "And remember to keep the door shut while you¡¯re on duty. Don¡¯t open it for just anyone, okay?" the supervisor reminded her again.

    Su Qingnuan nodded, thenughed lightly. "Don¡¯t worry, Supervisor. I¡¯m not a kid anymore."

    The supervisor shot her another look but said nothing more, walking away with her bag.

    Only after the supervisor left did Su Qingnuan take a deep breath, finally calming down.

    She cast her gaze again toward the elevator, but it was still empty.

    Was it just her imagination?

    But such an illusion¡ªwith a vividness so lifelike¡ªwas really hard to dismiss.

    With these thoughts, Su Qingnuan found it impossible to stayposed.

    Anxiously awaiting her shift¡¯s end, she left thepany as soon as possible.

    Standing outside, watching the cars passing by, Su Qingnuan picked up her phone.

    Before she could dial, the phone vibrated.

    Seeing the caller ID, Su Qingnuan eagerly answered the call.

    "Hello! Is this Mr. Fu?"

    The excitement in her voice was unmistakable, catching Fu Yihan off guard for a moment.

    "Where are you?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nced at the quiet building behind her and quickly replied, "I just finished my shift and am outside thepany."

    "Alright, wait for me."

    With that, the call ended.

    This wasn¡¯t the first time Fu Yihan had hung up on her. She had long grown ustomed to it.

    Standing idly by the roadside, boredom led Su Qingnuan to hop along the tiles of the sidewalk, ying a game of hopscotch.

    She had loved ying this as a child, though her mother had scolded her for it and discouraged the habit.

    Now, as a woman in her twenties, she suddenly found herself nostalgic for her childhood.

    Swept up in her game, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t notice a ck car slowly pulling up nearby.

    Through the dark window, Fu Yihan caught sight of the lively figure hopping around.

    Perhaps tired from her jumping, Su Qingnuan wiped the sweat from her forehead, her flushed cheeks resembling a ripe apple.

    Her movements were so childish, like a kindergartener.

    Yet this childishness irresistibly drew Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, holding him captive.

    "Young Master?" Ah Qi turned his head, puzzled by theck of instruction. "Should I go call the Young Mistress?"

    Fu Yihan remained silent for a long while before replying, "Go ahead."

    "Understood."

    ...

    Finishing thest square, Su Qingnuan looked up and wiped her sweat. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a figure approaching.

    Her face lit up with delight, and she waved excitedly. "Ah Qi, I¡¯m over here!"

    Ah Qi walked toward her, smiling, "Young Mistress, the Young Master is waiting for you in the car."

    Su Qingnuan quickly nodded, grabbed her bag, and followed Ah Qi.

    After boarding the car, Su Qingnuan nced at Fu Yihan sitting beside her, appearing to be in good spirits. She hesitated, wanting to speak but holding back.

    Noticing her lips moving intermittently, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "What is it? Do you have something to say?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded, then shook her head.

    "What do you mean?" Fu Yihan frowned, his impatience showing.

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly exined, "I¡¯m not sure how to say this, but earlier during my shift, I think I heard a child crying¡ªlike, um..."

    As she recounted the story, she animatedly added a series of gestures and expressions, speaking so vividly that even Ah Qi, who was driving, momentarily forgot about his task.

    Fu Yihan frowned deeply, staring silently at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan scratched her head awkwardly. "Mr. Fu, don¡¯t look at me like that. I swear I¡¯m not making this up. If you don¡¯t believe me, I¡¯ll be on duty again tomorrow¡ªyou can see for yourself."

    Finally, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, calmly nodding. "Alright."

    "Alright?" Su Qingnuan looked at him in confusion.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "Tomorrow, I¡¯lle to see if you¡¯re telling the truth or not."

    "..." She had merely suggested it casually¡ªhe was actually taking her seriously?

    That night, Su Qingnuan dreamed of crying children, waking in terror with a scream.

    Fu Yihan rubbed his temples, looking at her with evident annoyance. "Another nightmare?"

    Su Qingnuan, still dazed and foggy from sleep, stared at Fu Yihan nkly for a moment before snapping out of it and rushing into the bathroom.

    Inside, she sshed her face with cold water to clear her mind. Only then did she begin to calmly tidy up, preparing to head to work.

    As she left the room, Fu Yihan called out to her.

    "Su Qingnuan."

    He was carefully buttoning up his shirt, unhurried and methodical.

    "Wait for me."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked at him in surprise.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, casting her a meaningful nce. "Didn¡¯t I say yesterday that I¡¯d go with you to see what was going on?"

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s joy was obvious but fleeting¡ªmomentster, she reverted to her calm demeanor, nodding slightly. "Alright."

    Once Fu Yihan was ready, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t hide her eagerness and practically pushed him out the door.

    At thepany, Fu Yihan returned to his office while Su Qingnuan focused onpleting her tasks.

    It wasn¡¯t until after her shift that Fu Yihan, upied with his work, heard the ttering of wheels and instinctively looked up.

    Ah Qi was wheeling Fu Yihan toward her workstation. His wheelchair stopped just beside her desk. With a faint, enigmatic smile, he looked at her.

 Chapter 183 Paradise

    <h4>Chapter 183: Chapter 183 Paradise</h4>

    "Mr. Fu," Su Qinnuan stood up, her smile sincere as she looked at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan responded with a faint "Hmm," not saying more, his gaze falling on Su Qinnuan¡¯s workstation.

    Following his line of sight, Su Qinnuan quickly stood up and smiled lightly, "Mr. Fu, would you like to take a look?"

    "No need." Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, casually asking, "Any difficulties with work?"

    "No... not for now." Su Qinnuan felt as though she was being interrogated, unsure where to put her hands and feet.

    Noting her nervous demeanor, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze, "Take a seat."

    "Alright."

    Su Qinnuan sat down, her mind goingpletely nk. She even forgot what she had been about to do.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly, "What, you¡¯ve got nothing to do?"

    "...No."

    Hastily grabbing a document, the text locking her gaze was something she¡¯d already reviewed.

    But in this moment, she felt too awkward to get another one, so she stiffened her posture and began seriously reviewing the file.

    She quietly focused on the document, while the nearby Fu Yihan remained motionless.

    Stealthily, she turned her head and saw Fu Yihan holding his phone, his brows furrowed, engrossed in something.

    "What are you looking at?"

    Su Qinnuan froze momentarily, puzzled at him catching her gaze.

    Despite not raising his head, how did he know she was observing him?

    "If you want to look, do it openly. What¡¯s the point of sneaking?" Fu Yihan finally lifted his head, his eyes teasing as he looked at her.

    "..." She turned her face away and whispered, "I wasn¡¯t looking..."

    "What weren¡¯t you looking at?" Fu Yihan grinned. "Afraid to admit it?"

    "..."

    His uncharacteristic humor caught Su Qinnuan off guard, making her lower her head hurriedly, "I just felt like Mr. Fu seems to be in a good mood today?"

    "Quite good," Fu Yihan nodded, his gaze carrying a subtle smile, "But whether I¡¯ll stay in a good mood after seeing what you mentioned, that¡¯s debatable."

    "..."

    Recalling what she¡¯d seenst night, Su Qinnuan fell silent.

    It was unquestionably frightening. Whether Fu Yihan could maintain his good spirit after experiencing it¡ªthat was uncertain.

    Before anything happened, boasting was undoubtedly unwise.

    With that thought, Su Qinnuan dared not utter another word.

    The office fell into sudden silence. Su Qinnuan bowed her head to avoid looking at Fu Yihan, unaware that his gaze was fixed on her all along.

    His deep ck eyes held no discernible emotion as they quietly observed Su Qinnuan.

    Time slipped by, minute after minute, as the sky outside gradually darkened. Su Qinnuan raised her eyes, casting her gaze toward the hallway.

    The exit from their office led straight to the hallway¡ªthe exact spot where Su Qinnuan had seen that ominous ck shadowst night.

    "Woooo... Woooo..."

    The sudden sound of sobbing startled Su Qinnuan into standing.

    "It¡¯s here..." Su Qinnuan, on guard, stared in that direction and whispered, "That¡¯s the sound."

    "..."

    Fu Yihan remained unruffled, turning to look at A-Qi.

    A-Qi nodded and started pushing Fu Yihan toward the hallway.

    Seeing the two head toward that direction, Su Qinnuan hurriedly followed.

    The pitch-ck hallway was dimly lit by flickering lights¡ªthe only source of illumination left.

    "tter¡ªtter¡ª"

    The rolling sound of the wheelchair echoed faintly, breaking the hallway¡¯s silence.

    "Haha¡ª"

    A silveryugh emerged from the darkness up ahead.

    The footsteps faltered slightly, as A-Qi proceeded forward.

    "Eldest Young Master, let me check it out first."

    Fu Yihan nodded, "Go ahead."

    A-Qi jogged toward the source of the sound, vanishing around the corner.

    The sound of A-Qi¡¯s footsteps reverberated through the hallway, but Su Qinnuan felt no sense of security. She hurriedly pushed Fu Yihan to follow.

    Suddenly, A-Qi¡¯s footsteps stopped, followed by a loud shout.

    "Hey! What are you up to?"

    Pausing briefly, Su Qinnuan sped up her pace to catch up.

    When they arrived, they found A-Qi entangled with a small figure.

    It wouldn¡¯t be urate to call it a scuffle; it was more akin to A-Qi being single-handedly thrashed.

    He was clutching a six- or seven-year-old child, who was squirming restlessly, attempting to escape A-Qi¡¯s grasp.

    Yet A-Qi held firm, offering no chance for escape.

    "Where did this childe from?" Su Qinnuan asked doubtfully.

    A-Qi shook his head and released the child.

    The child wore a puffed-out dress and had two yful braids, looking lively and spirited.

    Upon seeing Su Qinnuan and Fu Yihan, the little girl suddenly grabbed A-Qi¡¯s neck, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "Uncle, there are bad people here."

    Su Qinnuan: "..."

    They had just arrived, yet somehow they¡¯d beenbeled as "bad people"?

    Seeing the little girl¡¯s tant fib, Su Qinnuan chuckled, "Youngdy, we haven¡¯t done anything yet. How are we already bad people?"

    The little girl nced at her, then turned her head away and buried herself in A-Qi¡¯s shoulder, refusing to look at Su Qinnuan.

    Su Qinnuan frowned slightly, wanting to say more, but her hand was pulled.

    Confused, she lowered her gaze and met Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes, causing her to freeze momentarily.

    "Youngdy, how did you end up here?" Fu Yihan asked with a smile.

    The little girl remained silent, clutching A-Qi¡¯s neck, motionless.

    From her dependent demeanor, she seemed like an entirely different person from when they¡¯d seen her struggling against A-Qi moments earlier.

    "What¡¯s going on here?" Su Qinnuan asked quietly.

    Fu Yihan shook his head, "Not sure. Push me closer for a look."

    Su Qinnuan pushed Fu Yihan forward, stopping in front of the little girl.

    A-Qi nudged the girl¡¯s head so that her face was visible to Su Qinnuan and Fu Yihan.

    The girl had fair, delicate features, her look undeniably endearing¡ªbut her impatient expression made them frown involuntarily.

    "This little girl looks kind of familiar..." Su Qinnuan murmured hesitantly.

    Fu Yihan said nothing, his eyes fixed unwaveringly on the girl.

    After a long moment, Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly, "Are you from the Xia family?"

    The girl froze, herrge ck eyes widening in shock as she stared at Fu Yihan.

    "A-Qi, call Xia Xing."

    "Understood."

    A-Qi made the call. Shortly after, hurried footsteps echoed through the hallway, and a man in a suit appeared.

    "Mr. Fu!" Xia Xing jogged over, wiping the sweat from his forehead as his worried gazended on the girl. "My apologies, I didn¡¯t keep an eye on her."

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t respond, simply sizing up Xia Xing before speaking after a while, "You¡¯re still working?"

    Xia Xing nodded, "I¡¯ve got a few things left to wrap up. Should be done soon."

    "Daddy!" The little girl reached out to Xia Xing, her voice filled with excitement.

    Xia Xing picked her up and sighed, "Didn¡¯t I tell you not to wander off?"

    "You only said not to go upstairs or downstairs; you never said I couldn¡¯te here!"

    Her reasoning was sound, her logic crystal clear.

    Xia Xing rubbed her head helplessly, then turned apologetically to Fu Yihan.

 Chapter 184: Good Relations

    <h4>Chapter 184: Chapter 184: Good Rtions</h4>

    Fu Yihan waved his hand, "Work is important, but so is family. Go home early with your child."

    "Alright."

    Watching the father and daughter leave, only then did Fu Yihan turn to Su Qingnuan. "What do you think?"

    Su Qingnuan stared at Xia Xing¡¯s departing figure and sighed, "The department head is truly dedicated!"

    "What did you think? How else could he have achieved this position at such a young age?" Fu Yihan chuckled. "If you worked as hard every day, you could do it too."

    Feeling sheepish, Su Qingnuan lowered her head and smiled faintly. "I don¡¯t have such big ambitions. I just want to do my part well."

    "...No ambition."

    With a look of disdain, Fu Yihan turned and headed back.

    Awkwardly chuckling, Su Qingnuan quickly followed him.

    Their shift came to an end, and the three of them left the office and descended to the parking lot.

    As they started their car, they spotted a ck car speeding by in the distance.

    "Isn¡¯t that Minister Xia¡¯s car?" A-Qi asked.

    Fu Yihan nced briefly but remained silent.

    A-Qi, sensing the atmosphere, promptly shut his mouth and refrained from saying anything further.

    The car sped into the quiet night, cutting through the stillness of the dark.

    "Are you on duty tomorrow?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s voice suddenly broke the silence inside the car.

    Su Qingnuan snapped back to reality, realizing he was asking her. She nodded quickly. "Yes, Mr. Fu."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan nodded, his eyes fixed straight ahead as he said casually, "I¡¯ll have A-Qi pick you up in the evening."

    "Alright, thank you, Mr. Fu."

    After that, the two of them didn¡¯t talk much.

    Later that night, Su Qingnuan changed Fu Yihan¡¯s dressings.

    She originally nned to try acupuncture again but decided to wait, recalling Fu Yihan¡¯s reactionst time.

    After finishing the dressing change, Su Qingnuany on the bed, while Fu Yihan worked at the small desk.

    There was only one deskmp on in the room. Its soft, dim light cast a gentle glow on Fu Yihan¡¯s face.

    Su Qingnuan stared at his profile, momentarily lost in thought.

    Before long, her vision blurred, and before she knew it, she had fallen asleep.

    The rhythmic sound of her breathing filled the room, causing Fu Yihan to look up.

    The figure lying on the bed, wrapped in a quilt, was already deep in slumber.

    While Fu Yihan preferred silence, at that moment, the sound of her quiet breathing didn¡¯t bother him at all.

    He adjusted themp to make it dimmer and returned to his work.

    ...

    Over the next few days, it was always Su Qingnuan on duty.

    Ever since discovering the cause of themotion¡ªXia Xing¡¯s daughter¡ªSu Qingnuan felt less afraid.

    Once again, it was Su Qingnuan¡¯s turn to be on duty.

    At the usual time, faintughter began echoing from the empty hallways, tinging the atmosphere with an eerie vibe.

    Finding it hard to concentrate after working awhile, she grabbed the candies she had bought earlier in the day and walked toward the hallway.

    "Xiaoyuan?" Su Qingnuan stood at the office door and called out with a smile.

    Theughter in the hallway ceased, followed by light, quick footsteps.

    Xia Xiaoyuan appeared, clutching a doll, her eyes wary as she looked at Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan crouched down and extended her palm.

    "I have candy here. Do you want some?"

    Xia Xiaoyuan¡¯s gaze swept warily over Su Qingnuan¡¯s face and hands, but she remained rooted in ce.

    Her guard was high.

    Smiling softly, Su Qingnuan stood up and walked toward Xiaoyuan.

    "Let¡¯s check with your dad first, then you can have some candy. Sound good?"

    Xia Xiaoyuan hesitated briefly before nodding slightly.

    With Xia Xiaoyuan in tow, Su Qingnuan made her way to the department head¡¯s office.

    Unlike the brightly lit main lobby where Su Qingnuan had been sitting, Xia Xing¡¯s office stood illuminated alone amidst a darkened corridor.

    Holding Xia Xiaoyuan¡¯s hand, Su Qingnuan knocked on the ss door.

    "Come in."

    Su Qingnuan pushed the door open, stepping in with a smile.

    "Minister," she said, nudging Xia Xiaoyuan forward, her grin deepening. "I bought some candy for Xiaoyuan, but she seemed hesitant, so we came to check with you first."

    When Xia Xing saw Su Qingnuan, he froze, and his expression grew even more awkward listening to her exnation.

    "Xiaoyuan, were you running around the hallway again?" Xia Xing asked, his face stern.

    Giggling, Xiaoyuan ran up to him, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Daddy, I was so bored by myself!"

    "..."

    Helplessly, Xia Xing tapped Xiaoyuan¡¯s nose affectionately. "Daddy knows you¡¯re bored. Just wait a bit longer, and I¡¯ll take you home."

    "Okay!"

    Xia Xing¡¯s gaze at Xiaoyuan was brimming with deep affection.

    "Then..." Xiaoyuan nced tentatively at the candy in Su Qingnuan¡¯s hand. "Can I have some candy?"

    Hearing that, Xia Xing turned to Su Qingnuan with an apologetic look. "Qingnuan, Xiaoyuan eats too much candy. Her teeth are almost getting cavities, so I¡¯m sorry."

    "It¡¯s no problem." Su Qingnuan tucked the candy away. "That was thoughtless of me."

    "Not at all. I still appreciate you watching over her," Xia Xing replied.

    Su Qingnuan: "...You¡¯re wee."

    Leaving Xia Xing¡¯s office, Su Qingnuan rubbed her face awkwardly.

    She hadn¡¯t done anything, yet somehow earned the department head¡¯s gratitude, making her feel a tad undeserving.

    Because of Xia Xing¡¯s gratitude, for the next several days, Su Qingnuan stopped bringing candy and instead brought small, fun items.

    Little toys or crafts.

    Although Xia Xiaoyuan pretended not to care, the smile lighting up her face when receiving something was absolutely radiant.

    Seeing this made Su Qingnuan quite happy as well.

    Because of Xiaoyuan, Su Qingnuan found herself interacting with the department head more often.

    One day, while she was in the tea room pouring tea, she noticed someone approaching out of the corner of her eye. Quickly, she moved aside to make space.

    "Making tea?" a familiar voice asked.

    Startled, Su Qingnuan nced over sideways, her eyes widening in surprise when she saw who it was. "Minister? Are you... here for tea?"

    Shaking his head, Xia Xing gestured toward the coffee machine and smiled. "I drink coffee."

    "I¡¯ll help you."

    Without waiting for a reply, she took the coffee cup from him and skillfully began preparing a cup.

    Watching her deft movements, Xia Xing chuckled. "Don¡¯t you not drink coffee?"

    "I don¡¯t, but my colleagues love it, so I learned how to make it."

    Otherwise, when asked to bring coffee, she¡¯d look clueless¡ªa situation that wasn¡¯t ideal.

    What Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t realize was that as she busied herself making coffee, Minister Xia stood behind her, quietly observing her every move.

    "Here," Su Qingnuan said, turning to hand him the cup of coffee.

    Taking it with a slight smile, Xia Xing replied, "Thanks."

    With that, he turned and left.

    As soon as Xia Xing stepped out, a crowd swarmed around Su Qingnuan.

    "Wow, Qingnuan, you¡¯re something! Making coffee for the department head?"

    "In our department, barely anyone even dares chat with the head. But you¡¯ve got guts!"

    "Qingnuan, how are you so amazing? Teach me your ways!"

    "..."

 Chapter 185 Rumor

    <h4>Chapter 185: Chapter 185 Rumor</h4>

    Listening to their tumultuous discussion, Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly: "I just made a cup of coffee to help, I didn¡¯t do anything else!"

    However, such a weak exnation did nothing to satisfy them.

    Su Qingnuan was cornered in the break room for half an hour. Seeing that she refused to give a single word, their expressions changed, and they dispersed one by one.

    Watching the crowd scatter, Su Qingnuan breathed a sigh of relief.

    Exiting the break room, she looked around to find quite a few people staring at her.

    Among them were plenty of familiar faces. With a sense of dread, Su Qingnuan braced herself and walked back to her desk.

    It was only after sitting down that Su Qingnuan finally felt the oppressive atmosphere fade away.

    How could a few casual words exchanged with Xia Xing in the break room lead to everyone reacting like this?

    Puzzlement and confusion spread endlessly in Su Qingnuan¡¯s mind.

    However, she soon had no time to dwell on such thoughts, as work from above arrived.

    The manager urgently called everyone to the meeting room to gather, prompting Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao to grab their notebooks and rush over.

    Sitting at the head of the table, the manager quickly counted heads and, after setting down the folder he held, spoke sternly: "As everyone knows, our cooperation with the Fu family has copsed, and we now have a new partner."

    The group nodded in agreement.

    "This new partner differs significantly from the Fu family¡ªthey¡¯re a multinationalpany. Their internal staff is notposed of a single nationality. Now, the other party has requested us to provide a better system to address the issues foreign employees face in using it. Do any of you have suggestions?"

    After the manager¡¯s words fell, the meeting room fell dead silent.

    No one was willing to be the first to speak up at such a moment. Everyone chose silence.

    The manager quietly observed them, while the silence in the room grew so heavy that no one even dared to breathe too loudly.

    "Since no one has any suggestions, I¡¯ll assign the tasks now." The manager pushed his sses up and shed a mischievous smile. "Two people per team. Complete the tasks I assign to you. Time to draw lots now."

    With that, the manager pulled a white box out from under the table.

    Judging by his practiced movement, he¡¯de well-prepared.

    "Qingnuan, shall we team up?" Gu Xiaoxiao whispered near her ear.

    Su Qingnuan nodded and, watching as people stepped forward to draw lots, suddenly reached over and pulled Gu Xiaoxiao close, whispering, "You go draw the lot."

    "Huh?" Gu Xiaoxiao frowned. "I¡¯m not really lucky at this."

    "It¡¯s fine."

    She lightly pushed Gu Xiaoxiao, nudging her into the advancing crowd.

    Gu Xiaoxiao followed the wave of people toward the box.

    Su Qingnuan sat in her seat, watching Gu Xiaoxiao blend into the crowd, then followed her gaze as Gu Xiaoxiao made her way back.

    "I pulled one!" Gu Xiaoxiao said excitedly, showing Su Qingnuan the slip of paper she¡¯d drawn.

    Taking the slip, Su Qingnuan nced at it and slowly furrowed her brows.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked, concerned. "Is it hard to do?"

    Su Qingnuan closed the slip with a bitter smile and sighed. "You said you had bad luck. You weren¡¯t exaggerating."

    "...Got it."

    After the meeting, Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao huddled in the break room.

    Gu Xiaoxiao sighed miserably: "Based on what you¡¯re saying, our team probably has the hardest share of the entire project?"

    "That¡¯s right." Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly. "Originally, it was just about mergingnguage formats, but you managed to pull nguage input¡¯ as our task instead."

    "...So what do we do now?" asked Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Su Qingnuan shrugged and sighed. "What else can we do? Take it slow and tackle it step by step."

    After briefly discussing their division ofbor, Su Qingnuan picked up her cup and stood.

    "Alright, let¡¯s go look for some resources now and regroup to summarize before the end of the day."

    "Okay."

    The two of them headed toward the door, which they opened just as two people entered.

    Su Qingnuan immediately stepped aside, making room for them to pass.

    "Well, well, isn¡¯t it Qingnuan?"

    Su Qingnuan paused for a moment before lifting her gaze.

    The two people facing her were looking at her with amused, ambiguous smirks.

    She realized their faces were somewhat unfamiliar.

    Su Qingnuan offered a polite smile: "Hello, are you new colleagues?"

    "New?" One of them covered her mouth,ughing. "We¡¯ve been working here for years, and you still don¡¯t recognize us?"

    "...Apologies." Su Qingnuan replied awkwardly, smiling. "I have a poor memory, so..."

    "Don¡¯t worry about it. We all know your memory is reserved for remembering the ¡¯important people,¡¯ right?"

    What does that mean?

    Su Qingnuan kept her expression neutral and her smile intact. "Anyone I¡¯ve met, I¡¯m sure to recognize."

    "That¡¯s true¡ªit¡¯s just that you¡¯ve never met us until now," said the woman on the right wearing a red skirt, extending her hand with a smile. "I¡¯m Hongjie from the Finance Department."

    Su Qingnuan also extended her hand with a friendly smile: "Hello, Hongjie."

    "Not so friendly." Hongjie¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. "I heard someone¡¯s been quite close with Manager Xia, so I came to see what this Miss Su looks like."

    The sharp undertone in her words made Su Qingnuan instantly wary.

    What¡¯s her rtionship with Manager Xia?

    And Manager Xia... she hasn¡¯t even interacted with him much, has she?

    "You¡¯re joking, Hongjie. I¡¯ve only met Manager Xia once, and we don¡¯t have any close connection."

    "...Not close?" Hongjie frowned, her tone growing colder. "Manager Xia never drinks coffee made by others. If you¡¯re not close, why would he drink yours?"

    "..."

    Never drinks others¡¯ coffee?

    Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, wondering if she¡¯d misheard.

    A moment ago, when she¡¯d made coffee for Manager Xia, he hadn¡¯t reacted at all.

    "Hongjie..." Su Qingnuan responded with a cordial but cautious smile. "Could there be some misunderstanding here?"

    "No misunderstanding." Hongjie stepped closer and locked eyes with Su Qingnuan, her gaze sharp. "Let me warn you¡ªstay away from Xia Xing. I don¡¯t care who you have backing you; if you dare touch Xia Xing, I won¡¯t let you off easily."

    "..."

    Watching Hongjie¡¯s bold retreat, Su Qingnuan lowered her head and rubbed her temples.

    "Qingnuan..." Gu Xiaoxiao teased as she finished watching the scene, patting Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder helplessly. "Howe I never noticed before that your luck with romance was so good?"

    Shooting her a nce, Su Qingnuan frowned slightly. "What nonsense is this? I¡¯ve only exchanged two sentences with Manager Xia."

    Gu Xiaoxiao sat down with a mischievous grin. "Let me tell you, this Hongjie is not your average person. She uses her connections to assert dominance in the Finance Department."

    "Everyone in thepany knows?" Su Qingnuan asked quietly.

    "Yes." Gu Xiaoxiao nodded. "That¡¯s why her background is so formidable! It¡¯s an open secret in thepany, yet not a single person dares to criticize her. Now, tell me¡ªis her background powerful or not?"

    Not more powerful than Fu Yihan¡¯s connections, that¡¯s for sure.

    Su Qingnuan pursed her lips, stood up indifferently, and said, "Alright, I¡¯ve got the memo. Now it¡¯s time for us to get back to work."

    Upon seeing this, Gu Xiaoxiao quickly followed her out: "Aren¡¯t you worried at all?"

    Su Qingnuan chuckled: "What¡¯s there to worry about?"

 Chapter 186: Hostile Relationship

    <h4>Chapter 186: Chapter 186: Hostile Rtionship</h4>

    "Everyone in thepany knows about Hongjie liking the minister," Gu Xiaoxiao said with a yful wink, staring mysteriously at Su Qingnuan. "Today, after what happened between you and the minister in the pantry, the wholepany is talking about how close you two are. Hongjie must be here to show off because of that."

    "She likes Minister Xia....."

    Although she had clearly felt it earlier, listening to Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s confident words, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    "Speaking of which, Minister Xia doesn¡¯t usually show up at the office much. Why did he suddenly decide to go to the pantry today?" Gu Xiaoxiao wondered.

    Su Qingnuan raised an eyebrow, giving her a yful look: "You really asked the wrong person. If I knew, would I be chatting here with you? I¡¯d have gone to butter up the minister long ago."

    "Oh,e on." Gu Xiaoxiao lightly pushed her, "With your personality, if you¡¯re really going to butter up someone, you might as well go and butter up that Mister Fu of yours."

    "....."

    Indeed,pared to Minister Xia, buttering up Mister Fu might actually be more beneficial.

    "I¡¯d love to...." Su Qingnuan sighed silently. "But Mister Fu has that ice-cold personality. No matter how much I wish, if he doesn¡¯t give me face, there¡¯s nothing I can do."

    "Doesn¡¯t give you face?" Gu Xiaoxiao raised an eyebrow,ughing: "You¡¯re a couple. Not giving face is just flirting, impossible."

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s teasing look, it was clear she didn¡¯t believe what she said.

    "Alright." Gu Xiaoxiao shrugged, indifferent: "Interpret it however you like, anyway... there¡¯s nothing I can do."

    Gu Xiaoxiao faltered for a moment, about to say something.

    "What are you two still doing here?" The supervisor¡¯s voice suddenly interjected, frowning at them.

    Su Qingnuan promptly stood up straight, speaking earnestly: "Supervisor, we were discussing the project."

    "Why are you standing in the middle of the way discussing a project? If you have something to say, go back and talk."

    "...Okay."

    The two of them awkwardly ran off, returning to their spots.

    Just as she sat down, she felt the desk vibrate.

    Puzzled, she opened the drawer and her phone¡¯s screen was vibrating continuously.

    Seeing the caller ID, Su Qingnuan paused, then picked up the phone.

    "Qingnuan." Shen Lin¡¯an¡¯s gentle voice came from the other end of the phone.

    Su Qingnuan smiled softly: "Lin An brother, what¡¯s the matter?"

    Ever since that conversation, Shen Lin¡¯an had clearly gotten over it. Though he still said some caring words from time to time, he was very measured.

    "I haven¡¯t seen Su Yuerou these days, do you know what she¡¯s busy with?"

    "Yuerou?" Su Qingnuan was puzzled, hesitantly saying: "I rarely contact Su Yuerou nowadays."

    "..." There was silence on the other end for a while, then he sighed: "I¡¯m looking for Yuerou because she has some of our photos, and I want her to delete them."

    Hearing him say that, it probably wasn¡¯t good photos.

    "Okay." Su Qingnuan replied knowingly: "I haven¡¯t seen Su Yuerou for a long time either. She should be with Fu Yixing."

    "Fu Yixing?" Shen Lin¡¯an was surprised: "When did she get involved with Fu Yixing?"

    Su Qingnuan gave a wry smile: "This is a long story, but Lin An brother, I want to remind you, if possible, stay away from the Su family."

    There was silence again on the other end of the phone.

    After a while, Shen Lin¡¯an said softly: "Qingnuan, I know Auntie did this and wronged you, but Uncle still cares about you."

    "I know." Su Qingnuan frowned slightly, interrupting Shen Lin¡¯an, "Lin An brother, I have work to do here. Let¡¯s chatter if there¡¯s anything."

    "Alright."

    After hanging up the phone, Su Qingnuan held the phone in silence for a while until footsteps approached behind her. She then put down the phone and picked up the document to work again.

    Tonight, there was still night duty, but not just Su Qingnuan alone.

    Gu Xiaoxiao pulled over a chair, sitting next to Su Qingnuan: "This is just the right time to discuss what we should do with that."

    "Okay." Su Qingnuan tidied up the desk, taking out the phone.

    Thenguage system wasn¡¯t Su Qingnuan¡¯s strong point, nor was Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s, so they were both starting to learn from scratch.

    Based on the information collected during the day, they roughly put forward two ns.

    "Let¡¯s try this first." Su Qingnuan followed n one, seriously: "I think this has the highest possibility of being feasible."

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded in agreement: "I think so too, so let¡¯s give it a try."

    "Alright."

    They leaned theirputers together and began coding separately.

    In the quiet office, only the crisp sound of keyboards could be heard.

    Suddenly, a shadow drifted in.

    She peeked at the two busy people, her bright ck eyes gleaming with glee.

    Xia Xiaoyuan bent over, tiptoed to the opposite side of the two, then suddenly stood up.

    "Wow!"

    "Ahhhhh!"

    Gu Xiaoxiao jumped up abruptly, retreating back.

    Su Qingnuan was also stunned, her heart skipped a beat as she nkly stared at that cute face.

    "Oh my....." Gu Xiaoxiao clutched her chest, recovering from the scare, "Where did this kide from? Nearly scared me to death!"

    Wiping the sweat from her forehead, Su Qingnuan looked pale.

    "Xiaoyuan, why did youe over?" she asked softly.

    Hearing this, Gu Xiaoxiao asked puzzledly: "Do you know this child?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded, lowering her voice: "Minister Xia¡¯s daughter."

    "...." Gu Xiaoxiao paused, her eyes widening, then turned to look at Xia Xiaoyuan.

    Xia Xiaoyuan¡¯s round face lit up with a warm smile as she waved: "Hello!"

    "...Hello." Gu Xiaoxiao replied awkwardly, "Nice to meet you, I¡¯m Gu Xiaoxiao."

    "Little Xiaojiejie."

    "How sweet."

    Looking at the harmonious atmosphere between the two, Su Qingnuan suddenly doubted whether Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s guarded expression the first time they met was real.

    It seemed that because of Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s childlike innocence, she had much inmon with Xia Xiaoyuan when talking.

    In their conversation, Xia Xiaoyuan had already looped around to stand beside Gu Xiaoxiao.

    The two were tired from coding, so they took this time to tease the child and take a break.

    "Xiaoyuan! Do you want some candy?" Gu Xiaoxiao somehow produced a piece of candy.

    Xia Xiaoyuan blinked, suddenly looking at Su Qingnuan.

    Following her gaze, Gu Xiaoxiao chuckled: "What¡¯s up? Do you need Sister Qingnuan¡¯s approval?"

    Xia Xiaoyuan nodded, seriously: "Sister Qingnuan, can I have it?"

    Su Qingnuan paused, raising her hand to gently touch Xia Xiaoyuan¡¯s head, smiling softly: "Little Xiaojiejie is Sister Qingnuan¡¯s best friend. If you trust Sister Qingnuan, you can also trust Little Xiaojiejie."

    Hearing this, Xia Xiaoyuan nodded and took the candy.

    Watching the obedient little one, Gu Xiaoxiao remarked: "I never expected that with Minister Xia¡¯s indifferent appearance, his daughter would be so adorable."

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly: "Actually, it¡¯s not surprising. Maybe it¡¯s because we don¡¯t interact much with Minister Xia, so we feel he¡¯s cold."

    "True." Gu Xiaoxiao nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 187 What You Want

    <h4>Chapter 187: Chapter 187 What You Want</h4>

    The two of them yed with Xia Xiaoyuan for a while, but seeing that their work still wasn¡¯t finished, they didn¡¯t dare dy any further.

    "Xiaoyuan, how about I take you to your dad?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Xia Xiaoyuan nodded, holding Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand, her smile radiant: "Can Xiaoxiao-jiejiee with me?"

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan looked at Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Gu Xiaoxiaoughed cheerfully and stood up: "Then let¡¯s go together. Anyway, sitting for too long means I need a walk."

    "Alright."

    The two of them, holding Xia Xiaoyuan¡¯s hand, strolled down the quiet corridor, asionally letting out softughter.

    ...

    "Sorry to trouble you two again." Minister Xia took Xia Xiaoyuan¡¯s hand, sighing helplessly: "She likes to wander off after finishing her homework, and I simply can¡¯t keep an eye on her."

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly: "It¡¯s no problem, Xiaoyuan¡¯s very sweet."

    "Yes, Xiaoyuan is super well-behaved; she didn¡¯t disturb us at all," Gu Xiaoxiao chimed in.

    Xia Xiaoyuan tilted her head proudly, looking at Xia Xing.

    Ruffling her hair indulgently, Xia Xingughed softly: "You¡¯re not going to thank your two jiejies?"

    "Thank you, Qingnuan-jiejie! Xiaoxiao-jiejie!"

    The little one¡¯s obedient smile melted the hearts of the two womenpletely.

    "Minister Xia, we won¡¯t take up any more of your time now."

    "Alright, thank you again."

    Leaving Minister Xia¡¯s office, Gu Xiaoxiao leaned against Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder, grinning mysteriously: "I wondered why you¡¯ve been getting close to Minister Xiately. Turns out it¡¯s because of Xiaoyuan, huh?"

    "Yeah," Su Qingnuan replied with amusement, "Remember how they mentioned hearing strange noises while on duty? That was just Xiaoyuan ying in the corridor. They just didn¡¯t have the guts to investigate."

    Of course, Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t tell Gu Xiaoxiao that she herself hadn¡¯t dared either; it was only because Fu Yihan was around that she learned it was Xiaoyuan.

    Gu Xiaoxiao gave her a thumbs-up, speaking with admiration: "Who knew you had such guts? Next time at the haunted house, you have toe with me."

    "...No." Su Qingnuan pressed a hand to her chest and sighed: "I¡¯d like to live a few more years, thanks."

    Gu Xiaoxiao nudged her shoulder,ughing: "Quit pretending!"

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t argue, just smiled helplessly.

    The two returned to the office, doing their best to organize their thoughts before tidying up their things and getting off work.

    Stepping out of the building, they were greeted by the sight of a car parked nearby.

    Grabbing the fleeing Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan dragged her toward the car door.

    "Ah Qi," Su Qingnuan smiled at the driver as the window rolled down, "Do me a favor and take Xiaoxiao back to campus."

    Gu Xiaoxiao awkwardly nced at Ah Qi: "Sorry for bothering you."

    Ah Qi didn¡¯t respond, instead turning to look inside the car.

    Following his gaze, Su Qingnuan saw that the car¡¯s interior lights were off, making the backseat dim, so she hadn¡¯t noticed there was someone sitting there.

    Meeting the person¡¯s dark, shiny eyes, Su Qingnuan quickly loosened her grip,ughing nervously: "Mr. Fu."

    A chilly gaze swept over Su Qingnuan briefly before withdrawing.

    "Get in the car."

    The deep voice carried no hesitation.

    Su Qingnuan gave Gu Xiaoxiao a nudge.

    Gu Xiaoxiao pulled a face and reluctantly climbed into the passenger seat.

    The car was silent¡ªusually chatty Gu Xiaoxiao was notably quiet.

    From the corner of her eye, Su Qingnuan saw Fu Yihan engrossed in his phone, and couldn¡¯t help but marvel at hismanding presence, enough to make Gu Xiaoxiao silent.

    "I heard you were assigned a project today?"

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan quickly sat up straight, nodding: "Yes, Xiaoxiao and I are in charge of one section."

    "Are there any issues?" Fu Yihan asked again.

    Su Qingnuan was taken aback, looking at him uncertainly.

    Was he offering help, or...

    Seeing no response, Fu Yihan blinked slightly, turning his head toward her.

    Su Qingnuan furrowed her brows, hesitation written clearly in her eyes, as though she wanted to speak but held back¡ªperhaps pondering something else entirely.

    "What?" Fu Yihan spoke again with a cold expression, "Is my question too hard to answer?"

    "...No," Su Qingnuan quickly said, "I was just thinking about how best to answer your question, Mr. Fu."

    "Answer honestly, of course," Fu Yihan replied irritably, flipping his phone casually.

    "...Well, it¡¯s pretty challenging," she chose a middle ground response, hoping it wouldn¡¯t cause issues.

    Feeling more rxed, Su Qingnuan exhaled softly.

    "If it¡¯s tough, consult the more experienced staff," Fu Yihan advised. "They have the know-how."

    "Got it."

    "And if you still don¡¯t get it,e to me," he added, his tone strict yet tinged with faint disdain.

    Su Qingnuan silently sighed, nodding, "Alright."

    With that, the conversation lulled into silence once more.

    Just as this happened, Su Qingnuan¡¯s phone buzzed.

    She nced at the screen, her eyebrows arching briefly before covertly sneaking a peek at the person riding shotgun.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Look at you acting all submissive¡ªis it not possible to be more assertive?

    Su Qingnuan curled her lips and quickly typed back.

    Su Qingnuan: If you think you can do it, be my guest.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Thanks for inviting me, but your family¡¯s domineering CEO isn¡¯t someone ordinary folks can handle.

    Su Qingnuan: d you understand. Only God knows how much I¡¯ve been suffering.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Pat-pat on the head! I¡¯ve had enough dog food; no more showing off your miserable act in front of me.

    Su Qingnuan: ...Where do you see any "dog food" here?

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Thanks, I saw it with both eyes.

    Weren¡¯t they just witnessing Fu Yihan unterally roasting her earlier? How did that turn into "dog food"?

    Confused, Su Qingnuan tilted her head reflexively, wanting to nce at Fu Yihan.

    Their eyes met, and Su Qingnuan froze momentarily.

    His deep gaze settled on her, calm as an ancient, tranquil pond.

    His eyes flickered slightly, trailing down to her hand.

    Startled, Su Qingnuan instinctively flipped her phone over, offering Fu Yihan a quick smile.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, eyeing her with a hint of amusement.

    This man was already exceptionally handsome, but his usual cold demeanor only added to his aloof charm. Now, his faintly different expression lent his features a touch of warmth.

    Lost in those deep eyes, Su Qingnuan quickly averted her gaze.

    Lowering her head, she could still distinctly feel the heat of his gaze lingering.

    Her phone became off-limits at this point, leaving her to fidget idly with her fingers.

    Finally, the car reached Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s school, and Su Qingnuan took advantage of saying goodbye to her friend to breathe a sigh of relief.

    Driving away from the school¡¯s main entrance, they passed through a small alley lined with food stalls.

    The air was heavy with mouthwatering aromas, and Su Qingnuan¡¯s nose twitched as she nced toward them.

    "Stop the car."

    The suddenmand snapped Su Qingnuan out of her thoughts.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan asked, confused, "Are you hungry?"

    "Mm."

    Ah Qi hurriedly said, "Eldest Young Master, let me go buy something for you."

    "No need," Fu Yihan pressed the unlock button. "We¡¯ll eat here."

    Catching on, Su Qingnuan quickly got out of the car.

    Fu Yihan stood by the car, leaning slightly on his cane.

    "No wheelchair?" Su Qingnuan asked softly.

    Shaking his head, Fu Yihan gritted out, "It¡¯s for the exercise."

    Limited by Fu Yihan¡¯s leg, they chose a nearby small eatery to dine in.

 Chapter 188 Su Qingnuanéˆ¥æªš Life

    <h4>Chapter 188: Chapter 188 Su Qingnuan¡¯s Life</h4>

    Helping Fu Yihan into a seat, Su Yuerou picked up the menu and smiled, asking, "Mr. Fu, what would you like to eat?"

    Fu Yihan pushed the menu aside, his expression still indifferent.

    "You choose."

    "Me?" Su Yuerou paused in surprise.

    "You¡¯re more familiar with this ce. Pick something you think is good."

    "Alright."

    This restaurant was one Su Yuerou used to frequent during her sophomore year in university. Back then, she had more time, so she came here often. But starting her junior year, her visits had be scarce.

    One reason was the distance, which made her toozy toe, and another was that she wasn¡¯t particrly a foodie. Without the craving, the thought rarely crossed her mind.

    She selected a few items she thought were decent and smiled as she rmended them, "Their ms are good, very cleanly prepared, and also..."

    Fu Yihan nodded, quietly watching her.

    She didn¡¯t realize that as she talked about these dishes, her eyes lit up, and she became more animated, shedding the pale and weary look she typically carried.

    In this vibrant state, Su Yuerou captivated Fu Yihan, making him unable to look away.

    "If Mr. Fu likes this, we can try it next time as well..."

    She rambled on, and yet Fu Yihan didn¡¯t find her bothersome, listening serenely.

    Until Su Yuerou realized she might be talking too much and abruptly stopped herself.

    "Am I being too chatty?" Su Yuerou covered her mouth and asked softly.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "It¡¯s fine."

    It¡¯s fine?

    But the tables around them had already turned their heads to look, perhaps finding her too noisy?

    Regardless of what Fu Yihan said, Su Yuerou dared not speak anymore, blushing as silence took over.

    Her shy demeanor fell into Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze, causing his expression to subtly shift as he stared at her peculiarly.

    Not until the dishes they had ordered were served did Fu Yihan pull his gaze away.

    Su Yuerou deftly grabbed her chopsticks and adjusted the dishes in front of Fu Yihan¡ªher familiarity with the ce evident.

    Fu Yihan lowered his head, eyes fixed on the ms in front of him, but didn¡¯t move to pick them up.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Yuerou asked curiously. "You don¡¯t like ms? Or can¡¯t eat spicy food?"

    Fu Yihan looked up slightly and replied leisurely, "At home, ms are served with the meat directly."

    "..."

    Predictably, the sheltered Eldest Young Master.

    Su Yuerou understood instantly and picked up her chopsticks. She extracted the m meat from the shells, cing it into Fu Yihan¡¯s bowl before discarding the empty shells.

    She only prepared a few pieces before stopping, watching Fu Yihan pick up his chopsticks and start eating.

    Even while eating street food, Fu Yihan maintained his refined manners, chewing slowly and deliberately.

    "How is it?" Su Yuerou looked at him expectantly.

    Fu Yihan blinked, a strange emotion flickering across his face.

    "Very... very odd."

    "Odd?" Su Yuerou paused, taking a piece for herself and tasting it.

    Slightly spicy but fresh and vorful¡ªnothing unusual.

    "Mr. Fu, perhaps you¡¯re not used to this vor. Let¡¯s try something else. Let me check..."

    "No." Su Yuerou¡¯s hand holding the chopsticks was stopped. Fu Yihan pointed at the ms, frowning slightly. "I want to eat this."

    "...Are you certain?"

    "Yes."

    Seeing the serious look on Fu Yihan¡¯s face, Su Yuerou chuckled, "Alright."

    Lowering her head, she focused on preparing m meat for Fu Yihan while he patiently waited to eat.

    Between the two of them, they quickly finished therge te of ms.

    Afterward, the owner brought over more snacks, and Fu Yihan ate quite a bit.

    Having had his fill, Fu Yihan leanedzily against his chair.

    "Do you oftene to ces like this?" Fu Yihan suddenly asked.

    Su Yuerou nodded, "I used toe here during my freshman and sophomore years with Xiaoxiao quite often."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, "I thought people like us rarely showed up in ces like this."

    "People like us?" Su Yuerou froze, her eyes staring nkly at the table.

    "Yes." Fu Yihan nodded, his distracted gaze drifting towards the doorway. "Living a life of privilege inevitably draws countless eyes, making our presence in ces like this uneptable to our families."

    "I suppose..." Su Yuerou smiled wryly, "My parents don¡¯t really care about me. Honestly, I don¡¯t know how people like us are supposed to live."

    From what she remembered, her mother was strict with Su Yuerou¡¯s elder sister, demanding the best in food and lifestyle. For Su Yuerou, merely surviving seemed to be considered adequate parenting.

    "I heard you stayed in the dorms during college?" Fu Yihan asked.

    "Yes." Su Yuerou held her chopsticks, poking at the m shells scattered across the table, each jab harder than thest. "I only moved back home during the first semester of my junior year."

    Life on campus had always been more liberating than life at home.

    Of course, this wasn¡¯t something Su Yuerou could confess to Fu Yihan.

    What Su Yuerou was unaware of, however, was how the faint sadness on her face had betrayed her emotions.

    Fu Yihan frowned slightly and averted his gaze.

    "Let¡¯s go. Walk straight ahead for a while, and then we¡¯ll head back."

    "Alright."

    Su Yuerou stood up and supported Fu Yihan as they walked forward.

    It was the peak hour at the night market, thrumming with bustling university students.

    Blending into the crowd, they didn¡¯t feel out of ce at all.

    Su Yuerou found nothing odd about this lively chaos.

    But Fu Yihan¡¯s expression grew increasingly grim. With his arm brushed yet again by a passerby, he suddenly stopped.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Yuerou noticed him standing still and reminded him.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s face darkened as he turned to Ah Qi, "Bring the car over. We¡¯re not walking any farther."

    "Okay."

    The two of them waited by the roadside for Ah Qi to bring the car around.

    Even so, it didn¡¯t prevent the asional passerby from bumping into Fu Yihan.

    The chaotic smells in the air grew increasingly unbearable, deepening the lines of frustration etched on Fu Yihan¡¯s brow.

    A crowd surged toward them, and Fu Yihan tightened his grip on his cane.

    If they came any closer, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to swing the cane to keep them away.

    His iron-d demeanor rmed Su Yuerou.

    Following his line of sight, Su Yuerou suddenly understood his anger.

    As the crowd drew near, Su Yuerou abruptly stepped back and positioned herself behind Fu Yihan, wrapping her arms around him.

    Fu Yihan stiffened in surprise and turned slightly to look.

    Su Yuerou¡¯s lips curled into a smile as she whispered, "Mr. Fu, does this take some of the strain off your leg?"

    She tightened her hold around his waist, easing some of the pressure on his leg.

    Her action also shielded Fu Yihan from the crowd, preventing anyone from brushing against his arms or back.

    When they had exited the car earlier, Fu Yihan hadn¡¯t worn a jacket, leaving him in just a light dress shirt.

    Her warmth, soft andforting, permeated his shirt and reached his back.

    Gentle... and warm...

    Fu Yihan suddenly lowered his head, his thickshes shielding the tumultuous emotions in his eyes.

    "Mr. Fu?"

    "Mm."

    Hearing his acknowledgment, Su Yuerou¡¯s smile deepened as she adeptly kept the crowd at bay.

    By the time Ah Qi arrived with the car, the tidal wave of people had receded.

    "Mr. Fu, get in the car," Su Yuerou said softly, supporting Fu Yihan.

 Chapter 189 Ambiguous Relationship

    <h4>Chapter 189: Chapter 189 Ambiguous Rtionship</h4>

    With Aqi¡¯s help, Su Qingnuan assisted Fu Yihan into the car.

    His cold, rigid face softened quite a bit once he was back in the vehicle.

    From this, Su Qingnuan fully understood¡ªFu Yihan could tolerate these street snacks, but he couldn¡¯t stand crowds, and above all, hated being touched by random people.

    By gathering this crucial information, Su Qingnuan figured she could better care for Mr. Fu in the future.

    When they arrived home, to her surprise, the house waspletely empty.

    Puzzled, Su Qingnuan looked around. "Grandpa¡¯s not home today either?"

    The old man rarely went out and was usually home. Why would he be gone?

    "Don¡¯t know," Fu Yihan replied indifferently. "Let¡¯s go back."

    "Alright."

    Back in their room, Su Qingnuan naturally took the clothes Fu Yihan handed her and softly asked, "Mr. Fu, do you want to take a bath now?"

    Fu Yihan nodded, his eyelids twitching slightly as he gave Su Qingnuan a meaningful look.

    After hanging up the clothes, Su Qingnuan turned around and was immediately met with Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze. Feeling odd, she lowered her head to inspect herself.

    "What is it? Is there a problem?"

    Fu Yihan nced at the door and said, "Go outside and call Aqi in."

    Su Qingnuan froze momentarily before responding quickly, "Mr. Fu, I can help you take off your pants."

    With that, she reached out her hand.

    "...." Startled, Fu Yihan hastily turned his wheelchair away, his back now facing her, his brows furrowed tightly. "What are you doing? I told you to leave!"

    His tone was hurried and sharp, as if he were angry.

    "...Fine then."

    Not daring to test Fu Yihan¡¯s boundaries, Su Qingnuan left and called Aqi into the room.

    Aqi walked in with a puzzled expression. "Eldest Young Master."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan pointed at his crutch. "Help me to the bathroom."

    Aqi quickly grabbed the crutch and assisted him inside.

    After settling him in the bathroom, Aqi exited the room.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan standing outside the door, Aqi nodded and said, "The Eldest Young Master is taking a bath."

    Su Qingnuan nodded and sighed lightly. "Do you think Mr. Fu is mad at me again? Why wouldn¡¯t he let me help him to the bathroom?"

    "Hmm?" Aqi looked at her, his eyes brimming with confusion.

    Seeing his nk expression, Su Qingnuanughed and exined how she had been helping Fu Yihan to the bathroom these past few days.

    She thought she¡¯d get a response, but Aqi¡¯s expression only grew stranger.

    "What¡¯s with that look?" Su Qingnuan chuckled. "Did I do something wrong?"

    "...Madam." Aqi suddenly said, "Do you know what the Eldest Young Master dislikes the most?"

    "What?"

    Aqi gave a serious look toward the bedroom door. "The Eldest Young Master hates being touched by others the most¡ªeven when I help him, it¡¯s only to assist him into the bathroom."

    "...."

    But all she had done was help him into the bathroom! That didn¡¯t seem like an issue.

    "As for taking off clothes, he does that himself."

    "...."

    She hadn¡¯t taken off all his clothes. It was just... his pants...

    Realizing what seemed off, Su Qingnuan suddenly looked up at Aqi.

    Aqi nodded confidently, letting out a breath of relief.

    "Looks like, in the Eldest Young Master¡¯s eyes, Madam isn¡¯t so much of an outsider anymore."

    "...." Su Qingnuan lifted the corners of her lips and chuckled softly. "That really is worth celebrating."

    She had always assumed that beneath Fu Yihan¡¯s cold and distant demeanor, his indifferent treatment of her was merely due to their partnership, not personal dislike. He simply hadn¡¯t bothered to express it.

    Hearing Aqi¡¯s words today, Su Qingnuan¡¯s understanding of their rtionship deepened.

    When Fu Yihan emerged from the bathroom, Su Qingnuan once again disyed her gentle and considerate side. Not only did she help dry his hair, but she also trimmed his nails. Fu Yihan kept giving her peculiar looks as she did so.

    "Mr. Fu, anything else you need?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile was so broad it almost reached the back of her head. Late at night, it came across as somewhat eerie.

    Fu Yihan frowned, pointing at the chair opposite him. "Sit down."

    "Alright!"

    Sitting down obediently, Su Qingnuan looked at Fu Yihan expectantly.

    "Are you... particrly happy about something?" Fu Yihan asked cautiously.

    Su Qingnuan blinked, a glimmer of amusement shing through her clear eyes.

    "Yes, something very happy indeed."

    "...Let¡¯s hear it," Fu Yihan said.

    "It¡¯s just..."

    She suddenly stopped. Staring at Fu Yihan, she seemed thoughtful.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "Go on."

    "I can¡¯t," Su Qingnuan said, her smile fading. "Please forgive me, Mr. Fu, but this is something I have to keep to myself for now."

    She nned to wait until Fu Yihan wasn¡¯t as icy¡ªor until their rtionship became more harmonious¡ªbefore telling him. Otherwise, he might get embarrassed and angry, and his expression would sour again.

    "You won¡¯t say?" Fu Yihan narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing Su Qingnuan.

    Clutching the corner of her clothing, Su Qingnuan nodded firmly.

    His once soft gaze turned cold, and the temperature in the room plummeted.

    Under his frosty stare, Su Qingnuan almost gave in, ready to wave the white g.

    But just as she was about to break, Fu Yihan averted his gaze.

    "Sleep."

    The ice in his tone reflected his mood in that moment.

    Watching his retreating back, Su Qingnuan hesitated to speak.

    Even as theyy in bed, she couldn¡¯t muster up the courage to reveal what was on her mind.

    The next morning, Su Qingnuan woke to find Fu Yihan was already gone.

    She got up in a hurry, searching for him everywhere.

    But afterbing through the entire vi, she found no sign of him.

    "Maybe he¡¯s busy with work," the old man reassured. "It¡¯s alright, Aqi is with him. Don¡¯t worry too much."

    Su Qingnuan nodded, though her mind wasn¡¯t at ease.

    After breakfast, the old man arranged for a car to take Su Qingnuan to the office.

    Compared to Fu Yihan¡¯s car, the old man¡¯s vehicle was significantly more luxurious. When it stopped at the street corner, it attracted quite a crowd.

    Su Qingnuan stepped out of the car, shielding her face with her hand as she hurried to circle around before entering the office.

    "Qingnuan." Gu Xiaoxiao spotted her and quickly came over, lowering her voice. "Brace yourself, the supervisor wants to see us in a bit."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan asked, confused. "First thing in the morning, what for?"

    "It seems to be about the project," Gu Xiaoxiao said, shaking her head with a furrowed brow. "I really don¡¯t know the details."

    "...Alright, guess we¡¯ll find out."

    Back at her workstation, Su Qingnuan had barely warmed her seat when a shadow fell across her desk.

    Looking up, she found the supervisor standing there, gazing at her with a somewhatplicated expression.

    "Supervisor." Su Qingnuan stood up, smiling. "What brings you here?"

    "You," the supervisor said, raising an eyebrow before ncing at Gu Xiaoxiao. "And you¡ªboth of you to my office."

    "Alright."

    Calling Gu Xiaoxiao, the two of them followed the supervisor to the office.

    The supervisor sat down in their chair, leisurely eyeing them. "Do you know why I called you in?"

    The two shook their heads in unison.

    With a sly smile, the supervisor tossed a document onto the desk. "Take a look."

 Chapter 190: Consensual

    <h4>Chapter 190: Chapter 190: Consensual</h4>

    Gu Xiaoxiao walked over, took the documents, skimmed through them briefly, and then handed them to Su Qingnuan.

    Su Qingnuan epted the documents, and upon seeing the bolded words "Project" on the front, her brows furrowed.

    "Supervisor, wasn¡¯t this supposed to be a project for the entire department?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion. "Why has it been assigned to just the two of us now?"

    The supervisor sat upright, smiling as he said, "Isn¡¯t this meant to give you two an opportunity? As long as youplete this project wlessly, you¡¯ll be promoted early without needing a probationary period¡ªyou¡¯ll be directly made permanent employees."

    The conditions were tempting, but thepletion level of this project was far too demanding.

    "Supervisor... This seems far too challenging. Xiaoxiao and I might not necessarily..."

    "Eh!" The supervisor cut Su Qingnuan off with a light smile and said, "You both were hired for your capabilities. If you didn¡¯t have the ability to handle something like this, I wouldn¡¯t trust it enough to assign it to you two."

    Looking at the supervisor¡¯s confident smile, Su Qingnuan frowned. "Supervisor, I¡¯m afraid this might be... quite difficult."

    It wasn¡¯t just "difficult"¡ªit was extremely tough.

    She spoke politely, assuming the supervisor would understand her meaning.

    "Of course, there¡¯s a certain level of difficulty," the supervisor replied, still smiling, "but you need to realize that opportunities like this don¡¯te often. If you disagree..." He pulled out another contract. "Here¡¯s your internship agreement. I think there are still some details we need to negotiate."

    This wasn¡¯t negotiating with them at all¡ªit was clearly coercion!

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes shed with anger, and she clenched her fists tightly.

    "Supervisor, going by your exnation, do we essentially not have any choice in the matter?"

    "Not exactly," the supervisor said with a smile lingering on his face. "I¡¯ve already given you some space to decide, haven¡¯t I?"

    "But you..."

    "Xiaoxiao." Su Qingnuan held Xiaoxiao¡¯s hand and gently shook her head.

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s words of fury stuck in her throat as she swallowed them back silently.

    Seeing that Xiaoxiao had calmed down, Su Qingnuan turned to the supervisor and asked, "Supervisor, so this project is non-negotiable for us, isn¡¯t it?"

    The supervisor gave her a meaningful look and said, "Su Qingnuan, you¡¯re a smart person. I¡¯veid it out this much already¡ªyou should understand what I mean."

    Su Qingnuan understood, of course she understood.

    It was precisely because she understood that she was perplexed.

    Why would someone go out of their way to make things difficult for her?

    Suddenly, a mboyant figure shed through her mind. Could it be that person...

    The supervisor nced at the two of them, smiling as he asked, "I don¡¯t have much time. Have you made up your minds yet?"

    "....."

    Gu Xiaoxiao looked at Su Qingnuan, grinding her teeth.

    Su Qingnuan pressed her hand lightly, lowering her voice, "Xiaoxiao, do you trust me?"

    "I do," Gu Xiaoxiao nodded firmly. "Whatever you say, I trust you."

    "Good, then trust what I¡¯m going to do."

    Su Qingnuan turned her gaze to the supervisor, smiled confidently, and said, "Supervisor, we¡¯ll take this project."

    The supervisor was briefly stunned, a trace of surprise shing through his eyes before his usual smile returned.

    "Alright, since you¡¯ve epted this project, the rest of the department can return to their regr tasks." The supervisor stood up and extended a friendly hand. "Thanks to you both."

    Su Qingnuan returned his smile and reached out to shake his hand briefly.

    "You¡¯re too polite, supervisor. As employees of thispany, it¡¯s our responsibility to do these things."

    ...

    Leaving the supervisor¡¯s office, Gu Xiaoxiao pouted the whole time.

    "Are you worried no one will know we¡¯re in trouble with that expression?" Su Qingnuan teased with augh.

    Gu Xiaoxiao red at her and said indignantly, "At a time like this, you still have the mood to joke around with me."

    "What else can we do?" Su Qingnuan ced the documents on the desk, sat down unhurriedly, and said, "Now that the situation is here, we can only ept it and figure out how to ovee it."

    Hearing this, Gu Xiaoxiao leaned closer and whispered, "Do you already have an idea?"

    "An idea?"

    Su Qingnuan did have her own thoughts about this project. Previously, everyone worked coboratively, so whilepleting her own portion, she had to consider her colleagues¡¯ input.

    Now that the whole project was handed to them, it might actually not be a bad thing.

    "I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯ll work¡ªwe¡¯ll just have to try."

    Su Qingnuan looked up at Gu Xiaoxiao and sighed. "I¡¯m sorry, Xiaoxiao. Once again, I¡¯ve gotten you involved."

    "What are you talking about?" Gu Xiaoxiao pushed her lightly on the shoulder and said crossly, "We¡¯re a team¡ªdon¡¯t divide us like this! If you keep saying stuff like that, I might actually get mad."

    "Got it." Su Qingnuanughed self-deprecatingly. "Then I won¡¯t be polite with you."

    Su Qingnuan stood up, leaned close to Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s ear, and lowered her voice.

    Gu Xiaoxiao froze momentarily, looking at Su Qingnuan with surprise.

    "What?"

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s astonished expression, Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s gaze roamed over Su Qingnuan as she rested her chin on one hand thoughtfully. "I think since you got married, you¡¯re not quite the same as before!"

    "...What¡¯s that supposed to mean?" Su Qingnuan asked awkwardly.

    She didn¡¯t think she¡¯d changed much. How was it that Gu Xiaoxiao saw a distinct difference?

    Gu Xiaoxiao shook her head and smiled faintly. "It¡¯s nothing. This kind of change is good¡ªit¡¯s much better than your previously meek demeanor."

    "...I wasn¡¯t meek!" Su Qingnuan said helplessly. "I just didn¡¯t want to argue with them."

    "Alright, alright! Whatever you say goes¡ªI¡¯m off to work now."

    Watching Gu Xiaoxiao run off, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but take out a mirror.

    Looking at her calm reflection, herplexion still looked pale¡ªshe didn¡¯t see any changes.

    Because of Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯sment, when she ran into Ah Qi after work, who came to pick her up, Su Qingnuan made a point of asking him seriously.

    Ah Qi only nced at her expressionlessly and shook his head.

    Relieved by this, Su Qingnuan sighed in relief.

    Rxing against the cushion, she looked at the empty seat to her left and asked in confusion, "Where¡¯s Mr. Fu? Isn¡¯t Mr. Fuing home today?"

    "The Eldest Young Master is at home."

    "At home?" Su Qingnuan leaned forward and asked, "When did you guys leave today? I didn¡¯t notice anything at all."

    After all, Fu Yihan¡¯s movements were always obvious whether he was getting into bed or getting out¡ªand she didn¡¯t consider herself to have the kind of deep sleep that would make her entirely oblivious.

    Hearing this, Ah Qi gave her a meaningful look but didn¡¯t reply.

    Not getting an answer, Su Qingnuan decisively withdrew her gaze and sighed while gazing outside.

    Upon returning home, she indeed saw Fu Yihan sitting on the sofa.

    Su Qingnuan stepped forward to greet him.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s cold gaze swept over her before he quickly withdrew it.

    Su Qingnuan froze momentarily, awkwardly standing in ce.

    She didn¡¯t move; Fu Yihan didn¡¯t move either.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare move, worried that if she made another attempt, he might get angry again.

    Meanwhile, Fu Yihan sat expressionlessly, yet his peripheral vision kept darting toward her.

    In the end, it was Su Qingnuan who broke the silence again.

    "Mr. Fu, are you upset about something?"

 Chapter 191: Coaxing

    <h4>Chapter 191: Chapter 191: Coaxing</h4>

    "Angry?" Fu Yihan let out a coldugh. "Why would I be angry?"

    Though his words said so, the chill in his eyes deepened.

    Su Qingnuan had spent so many years in the Su family, relying on reading her mother¡¯s expressions to navigate situations¡ªhow could she not see through him now?

    How did I coax him back thest time he got upset?

    Frowning in thought for a moment, Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes lit up. She turned to Fu Yihan and said, "Mr. Fu, do you want some soup?"

    Fu Yihan cast her a sidelong nce, wordless.

    Seeing his silence, Su Qingnuan pressed on: "I just learned a new recipe with Auntie¡ªmade from bone broth. They say it¡¯s good for your bones."

    "Hmph!" Fu Yihan¡¯s tone remained icy. "Good for the bones? All nonsense passed around by fools like you who believe such myths."

    His words were cutting, but his demeanor had noticeably softened.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "That¡¯s fine, even if it doesn¡¯t strengthen bones, it¡¯s still good for your health, isn¡¯t it?"

    His slightly chilly gaze swept over her, but he didn¡¯t rebut her statement.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan stood up. "Alright then, I¡¯ll go make the soup now. You sit here for a while, Mr. Fu."

    With that said, she turned and headed into the kitchen.

    It was almost dinnertime, and the household staff were busy in the kitchen.

    Finding Auntie, Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly. "Auntie, I hate to bother you again."

    Auntie grinned. "Young Madam is here to make soup again?"

    "Yes." Su Qingnuan awkwardly adjusted her clothing hem with a small smile. "Bone broth. Do we have the ingredients today?"

    "We do." Auntie promptly brought out the ingredients, cing them on the counter with a broad smile. "Now, all the staff at the vi know¡ªwhenever Young Madames to make soup, it¡¯s because Eldest Young Master is upset."

    "...That obvious, huh?"

    A warmth surged in her chest, and Su Qingnuan¡¯s cheeks flushed slightly.

    "Oh my, Young Madam¡¯s blushing!" Auntie teased.

    Lowering her head, Su Qingnuan said softly, "Auntie, stop teasing me. I don¡¯t have any other choice, you know."

    If there were another way to pacify that man outside, Su Qingnuan wouldn¡¯t have to keep running to the kitchen every time.

    "Don¡¯t be embarrassed, Young Madam. In marriage, it¡¯s always a good thing when one person is willing to back down! Our Eldest Young Master may have a temper, but he has a good heart."

    Fu Yihan, a good heart?

    It was as if Su Qingnuan had just heard the funniest joke in the world. She covered her mouth,ughing silently.

    "You don¡¯t know, Young Master was such an obedient, sweet child back in the day," Auntie said, her eyes narrowing as she smiled, lost in happy memories.

    Su Qingnuan chuckled. "Alright, Auntie, let¡¯s focus on the soup for now. We can talk about this another time."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan stayed in the kitchen, keeping watch over her soup, all the way until dinnertime.

    During dinner, Old Master¡¯s gaze kept circling around Su Qingnuan. Even someone asposed as she was couldn¡¯t withstand such a piercing stare for long.

    "Grandpa." Su Qingnuan set her chopsticks down, sighing softly. "Why are you staring at me like that?"

    "Ahem." The Old Master pulled his gaze back and smiled. "I heard you were the one making soup?"

    "...Yes."

    How did even Grandpa know about this?

    She instinctively nced at Fu Yihan, who was quietly eating, entirely uninterested in her situation.

    "Yihan, just look at how good Qingnuan is to you, and yet you keep that sour face on all the time!"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow and finally deigned to lift his head. "Having a sour face is my business¡ªwhat does that have to do with her?"

    "Can¡¯t you at least smile once in a while? Otherwise, Qingnuan will lose heart!" The Old Master chastised, his tone serious.

    "Lose heart?"

    Fu Yihan¡¯s frosty gazended on Su Qingnuan as he coldly asked, "Are you losing heart?"

    "...No."

    With an expression that clearly said "as expected," Fu Yihan turned back toward the Old Master, his gaze practically daring him to argue.

    The Old Master¡¯s lip twitched. Shooting Fu Yihan a nce, he muttered under his breath, "So smug now."

    "Always have been."

    That calm, collected demeanor brimming with an unspoken air of smugness was enough to make Su Qingnuan let out a helpless sigh.

    "Grandpa, would you like some soup too?" Su Qingnuan cut into the exchange between the two men.

    The Old Master raised an eyebrow and shook his head. "No, I¡¯m just envious¡ªsome people can be so cold yet still have someone taking care of them."

    Su Qingnuan smiled awkwardly and turned her head toward Fu Yihan. "Mr. Fu¡¯s health isn¡¯t great, so I just thought... if I can do more, I might as well help more."

    "That¡¯s wonderful." The Old Master nodded approvingly, his gaze filled with appreciation. "Indeed worthy of being the granddaughter-inw I chose¡ªwell done."

    "..." This almost childlike form of praise left Su Qingnuan lowering her head in embarrassment.

    "Hmm, true."

    Su Qingnuan froze momentarily, looking at Fu Yihan in surprise.

    Unbothered, he continued eating as though her gaze meant nothing to him.

    His rare acknowledgment even drew a smile of approval from the Old Master.

    "Well done." The Old Master beamed. "A couple should always show mutual understanding."

    Fu Yihan said nothing, setting his chopsticks down. "Are we eating or not?"

    "Eating! Of course we¡¯re eating." The Old Master hurried to reply, "How could we not?"

    Unlike the usual tense meals, tonight¡¯s dinner table was much more harmonious. Even Fu Yixing, who often liked to stir up trouble, wore a smile and refrained from saying anything unpleasant.

    After dinner, Fu Yihan went upstairs.

    Watching his retreating figure, Su Qingnuan fetched the soup from the kitchen and followed him upstairs.

    "Mr. Fu," she said with a gentle smile, carrying the soup over. "I packed it in a thermos for you. If you feel like having itter, just take it out."

    Fu Yihan lifted his eyelids slightly, ncing at the thermos ced beside him, his brows furrowing faintly.

    Noticing his displeasure, Su Qingnuan quickly asked, "Mr. Fu, what¡¯s wrong?"

    He lifted his head, his icy gaze locking onto her.

    Startled, Su Qingnuan silently panicked¡ªhow could his mood shift so suddenly? Nervously, she asked, "Did I do something wrong?"

    Her eyes widened slightly as she spoke, giving her an innocent and pitiful look.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, the chill in his gaze easing slightly. "Pour it out. I¡¯ll drink it now."

    Relieved at his words, Su Qingnuan quickly stepped forward to pour out the soup.

    Nothing frightened her more than Fu Yihan¡¯s silence.

    As long as he was willing to speak, everything could be worked out.

    "Here, Mr. Fu." Su Qingnuan handed the bowl to him, smiling softly. "Do you have any other types of soup you especially like?"

    Thest time he had her soup, Fu Yihan had been in a good mood for two days, behaving with rare calm¡ªshe hoped this time would be no different.

    Fu Yihan gave her a sidelong nce, the corners of his lips curving into a barely perceptible smirk, as though he saw through her intentions.

    Feeling awkward, Su Qingnuan averted her gaze, lowering her head and avoiding his eyes.

    In the quiet bedroom, only the sound of a spoon clinking against the bowl broke the tranquil silence.

    Feeling the strain of standing for too long, Su Qingnuan took a seat nearby, waiting for Fu Yihan to finish his soup.

    Her gazended on a file on the table. Noticing the familiar handwriting, she froze for a moment.

    "What is it?" Fu Yihan set his bowl down, following her gaze. "You recognize this project?"

 Chapter 192: The Villain Behind

    <h4>Chapter 192: Chapter 192: The Viin Behind</h4>

    Su Qingnuan snapped back to reality and nodded with a smile. "Our department is currently preparing for this project."

    Hearing this, Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curled into a disdainful smirk.

    "How are you preparing?"

    If it were ording to the current n, it was definitely their work.

    But the smile on his lips made Su Qingnuan hesitate for a moment.

    "Well, the manager divided the project into several sections, and each of us is responsible for one section," Su Qingnuan said, lowering her head.

    Her voice was small, as if she were sharing some secret.

    ncing at her indifferently, he asked, "Which section are you responsible for?"

    "I¡¯m responsible for thenguageponent."

    "Heh." Fu Yihan sneered. "Your manager sure knows how to delegate. Thenguage system is the core of this project, and it¡¯s handed to an intern like you to handle?"

    Su Qingnuan gave a wry smile.

    If Fu Yihan knew that this project had already been entirely entrusted to her, she wondered what he would think.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan silent with only a forced smile, Fu Yihan straightened up.

    "Tell me your thoughts."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned. From his posture, was he nning to tutor her?

    Fu Yihan frowned, looking impatiently at her. "Do I need to repeat myself?"

    "... No." Su Qingnuan quickly sat up straight, grabbed the papers from the desk, and smiled. "Thank you, Mr. Fu. There are a few areas I can¡¯t quite figure out; how should I address them..."

    When it came to work, Su Qingnuan seemed to transform into a different person.

    She shed all traces of hesitation, her face radiating confidence, making her look as though she were glowing.

    As she spoke, Fu Yihan did not interrupt, quietly waiting for her to finish before offering his own opinions.

    After discussing the issues with thenguageponent, Su Qingnuan looked at Fu Yihan with excitement. "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re truly amazing."

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "You don¡¯t need to say that."

    "Um..." Su Qingnuan cautiously observed Fu Yihan¡¯s expression and continued, "I still have one more question I¡¯d like to ask you."

    "Go ahead."

    "It¡¯s about the shortcut keys issue. I feel..."

    Listening to Su Qingnuan freely share her opinions, Fu Yihan¡¯s brows furrowed.

    After she finished speaking, Fu Yihan calmly asked, "Isn¡¯t this outside your section¡¯s scope?"

    "It is." Su Qingnuan nodded, keeping her face neutral. "It¡¯s from Xiaoxiao¡¯s section."

    "Aren¡¯t you each responsible for one section?"

    "Yes, but not mine."

    Giving Su Qingnuan a meaningful nce, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and proceeded to exin the previous issue.

    Looking at the materials Fu Yihan had organized, Su Qingnuan remarked, "Mr. Fu, I initially thought this project was really challenging. Now it seems quite simple."

    Fu Yihan sneered, crossing his arms over his chest.

    "Does this count as favoritism?"

    Su Qingnuan froze briefly before shaking her head rapidly. "Not at all, Mr. Fu. You¡¯re assisting those beneath you; this is absolutely not favoritism."

    "Oh?" Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, an invisible smile flickering in his eyes. "So, this assistance¡ªdoes it deserve any feedback?"

    "Of course!"

    Su Qingnuan immediately picked up an empty bowl and refilled it with soup for Fu Yihan, smiling sincerely. "Mr. Fu, what soup would you like to drink tomorrow? I¡¯ll prepare it ahead of time."

    Leisurely epting the soup, Fu Yihanzily nced at her. "Just soup?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her gaze, pondering what else she could do to help or perhaps repay Fu Yihan.

    As time passed, Su Qingnuan¡¯s frown deepened.

    After a long pause, Fu Yihan finally put down the bowl.

    "Invite me to dinner."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked up, staring at Fu Yihan in surprise.

    "Why?" Fu Yihan met her astonished gaze and sneered. "I¡¯ve helped you this much, and you won¡¯t even invite me to dinner?"

    "I will! Of course, I will! It¡¯s just..."

    Su Qingnuan gave a wry smile, hesitantly asking, "Mr. Fu, you¡¯re quite picky with food. I wouldn¡¯t know what you like to eat."

    "I¡¯ll choose the restaurant myself. You just bring money and yourself to apany me," Fu Yihan said calmly.

    This was wonderful!

    Su Qingnuan nodded and smiled. "Alright!"

    After all, if money could solve the issue, it wasn¡¯t really an issue.

    Afterwards, Su Qingnuan¡¯s mood was noticeably good, with a cheerful expression throughout.

    Her lightened moodsted until the first day of the new month when she returned to the office.

    At her workstation, while tidying up, someone suddenly patted her on the shoulder.

    "Qingnuan."

    A familiar voice. Su Qingnuan smiled as she turned her head.

    "Ah!"

    Seeing therge greenish-ck circles under the person¡¯s eyes, Su Qingnuan instantly retreated two steps, startled.

    "What¡¯s wrong? Why are you overreacting?" Xiaoxiao rubbed her eyes, looking at her with irritation.

    Clutching her chest, Su Qingnuan still hadn¡¯t recovered from the shock. "What did you dost night? Why are your dark circles so bad?"

    Sitting down, Xiaoxiao sighed. "I went homest night and kept thinking something wasn¡¯t right. I mean, we¡¯re just two interns, so why would such hard tasks fall onto us?"

    All for this?

    Feeling helpless, Su Qingnuan sat down and chuckled. "So, did you figure something out?"

    "Nothing at all." Xiaoxiao tilted her head back, looking miserable. "But when I came in this morning, I did see someone."

    "Who?" Su Qingnuan reached for her cup.

    "Sister Hong."

    Her hand froze mid-air before swiftly recovering. Taking her cup, Su Qingnuan smiled. "What about Sister Hong?"

    "I saw her arriving at work with the manager today," Xiaoxiao said, moving closer and mysteriously adding, "Do you think what we¡¯re dealing with was arranged by Sister Hong?"

    "Don¡¯t know." Su Qingnuan stood up, ncing at the direction of the pantry, and smiled. "Forget about that for now. Want coffee?"

    Rubbing her tired eyes, Xiaoxiao replied with a bitterugh, "Of course. I¡¯m not sure I¡¯ll make it through the day otherwise."

    Su Qingnuan chuckled and supported Xiaoxiao as she leaned against her shoulder, weakly saying, "Qingnuan, you have to take care of me today."

    "Alright, I¡¯ll take care of you."

    To show her determination, Su Qingnuan specifically made Xiaoxiao¡¯s coffee stronger, ensuring she wouldn¡¯t doze off during work.

    The two lingered in the pantry for a while before preparing to leave.

    But just as they turned to go, the door to the pantry swung open, and Xia Xing entered.

    Seeing Xia Xing again, Su Qingnuan paused momentarily. Smiling, she greeted, "Good morning, Director Xia."

    Xia Xing nced at her and ced his coffee cup on the table. "No sugar."

    Xiaoxiao froze slightly, looking at Su Qingnuan in surprise.

    Maintaining herposure, Su Qingnuan took the cup and turned to prepare the coffee.

    Xiaoxiao stood stiffly, not daring to move.

    Xia Xing sat on the sofa, but his gaze was fixed on the outer office.

    It wasn¡¯t until Su Qingnuan handed him the coffee that he withdrew his stare.

    "How¡¯s the project going?" Xia Xing suddenly asked.

    Su Qingnuan froze, staring at Xia Xing¡¯s eyes hesitantly. "Director Xia, you already know?"

 Chapter 193 Noble Patron

    <h4>Chapter 193: Chapter 193 Noble Patron</h4>

    Xia Xing maintained a faint smile and nodded slightly, "This is the department I¡¯m managing."

    The implication was clear¡ªhe was naturally aware of such matters.

    "Actually..." Su Qingnuan chuckled faintly, "At first, I thought it was quite difficult, but yesterday I consulted with someone remarkable. Although it may not be perfect, making a preliminary version is definitely doable."

    "Someone remarkable?" Xia Xing stared at her for a while, then suddenly smiled, "Ah, I almost forgot there¡¯s such a person."

    Seeing him listen so meaningfully, Su Qingnuan suddenly felt a bit embarrassed. She lowered her head and said, "Thank you for giving me this opportunity to showcase my abilities, Manager. You mentioned that if Xiaoxiao and I sessfullyplete this project, we can get promoted early."

    "Hmm, then keep it up."

    With that, Xia Xing carried his coffee and left the break room.

    As soon as he left, Gu Xiaoxiao couldn¡¯t wait to lean over.

    "What¡¯s going on? Who is the remarkable person? And did Manager Xia know someone was making things difficult for us? Why didn¡¯t you just tell him directly?"

    Shoving the clingy Gu Xiaoxiao off her, Su Qingnuan smiled helplessly, "You¡¯re throwing out so many questions at once, which one should I answer first?"

    Gu Xiaoxiao furrowed her brow, pondered for a moment, and quickly said, "Start with the remarkable person. When did you meet such a person? Why didn¡¯t I know about it?"

    "What remarkable person..." Su Qingnuanughed lightly, "The one I mentioned is Mr. Fu. Haven¡¯t you met him before?"

    "...Oh, I actually forgot about that. Your Mr. Fu really is a genius." Gu Xiaoxiao marveled.

    It was true that calling him a genius was not exaggerating. For some reason, hearing this made Su Qingnuan inexplicably proud, and she straightened her chest.

    "The problem I initially found so hard to solve has bepletely clear after his exnation. Don¡¯t worry, Xiaoxiao, this promotion is as good as secured."

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded, relieved, and wrapped an arm around Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulder, "This is the best news I¡¯ve heard in the past month."

    "Enough ttery. Let¡¯s get to work since we now have a clear direction."

    "Alright."

    With arms around each other¡¯s shoulders, the two left the break room and took theirputers to the office to focus on the project.

    ...

    On his way back with coffee, Xia Xing encountered Hongjie, d in a long dress and dressed mboyantly.

    "Manager Xia," Hongjie greeted him with a smile, her eyes soft, "You¡¯re making coffee yourself again? Why didn¡¯t you call me? I could help."

    "Hongjie, we don¡¯t belong to the same department," Xia Xing replied expressionlessly.

    Her smile faltered for a moment, but Hongjie gritted her teeth and maintained it. "Even if we¡¯re not in the same department, we can still help each other, right? After all, we¡¯re part of the samepany, the same collective."

    "Not necessary." Xia Xing turned and walked toward his office.

    His cold attitude was like a knife slicing into Hongjie¡¯s chest.

    Obviously, he treated everyone with the same icy demeanor, but why... Why did he suddenly go to the break room to make coffee?

    Why did he talk to that woman?

    shing a trace of hatred in her eyes, Hongjie strode toward the R&D department.

    Su Qingnuan was discussing with Gu Xiaoxiao how to add new functionalities to the existing system when the sound of clicking high heels suddenly came from behind.

    They were in an office that the manager had specially arranged for them to quietly work on the project, a ce that should have been unupied.

    Puzzled, they turned their heads and caught sight of a scarlet figure.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, and just as she was about to speak, "Smack¡ª"

    The crisp sound shattered the quiet of the office.

    Su Qingnuan tilted her head, staring nkly at the person in front of her.

    "What are you doing?" Gu Xiaoxiao swiftly pushed Hongjie away and shouted angrily, "Are you crazy? Why would you hit someone?"

    Rubbing her wrist, Hongjie sneered, "I warned you to stay away from him, but you insisted on not listening. Don¡¯t me me for being rude."

    Him?

    Thinking about the scene in the break room earlier, Su Qingnuan felt utterly wronged.

    "Hongjie." Su Qingnuan spoke calmly, "Manager Xia and I are merely acquaintances who nod in passing. It¡¯s not what you think."

    "Acquaintances?" Hongjie¡¯s eyes reddened as she yelled, "Acquaintances who seek you out every day?"

    Her shouting drew curious nces from passersby around the office.

    Gu Xiaoxiao hurriedly said, "What nonsense are you talking? Manager Xia just came for coffee, and Qingnuan was helping him out!"

    "With so many people in the office, why ask her to help?" Hongjie pointed viciously at Su Qingnuan, gritting her teeth. "Su Qingnuan, I¡¯m warning you¡ªXia Xing is mine. You¡¯d better let go of any unrealistic ideas."

    "..."

    What is this mess?

    Rubbing her stinging cheek, Su Qingnuan pulled Gu Xiaoxiao away and looked coldly at Hongjie.

    "Hongjie, out of respect for your seniority, I addressed you as Hongjie. Manager Xia and I are innocent, and I¡¯ve made that clear. If you don¡¯t believe me, there¡¯s nothing I can do."

    "Innocent? I¡¯m telling you, you¡¯d better hope I don¡¯t find evidence. Otherwise..."

    The pair of bloodshot eyes glimmered with malice.

    "We¡¯ve already exined it wasn¡¯t true! Don¡¯t you have a problem with your hearing?" Gu Xiaoxiao red up, pointing at Hongjie in anger, "If you¡¯re deaf, just go see a doctor! You¡¯re seriously insane!"

    Su Qingnuan hurriedly pressed down on Gu Xiaoxiao, whispering, "Xiaoxiao, calm down."

    While she could restrain Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s temper, she couldn¡¯t halt Hongjie¡¯s furious charge.

    The striking red figure dashed forward, swinging her hand at Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s face.

    Seeing this, Su Qingnuan quickly stepped in to block her, inadvertently drawing Hongjie¡¯s wrath upon herself as well.

    Before they knew it, the three of them were locked in a scuffle.

    Themotion drew a crowd of spectators, until the manager appeared and called for others to separate Gu Xiaoxiao and Hongjie.

    Hongjie was restrained by a group of strong individuals but remained fiercely focused on Su Qingnuan.

    "You wretched woman! This isn¡¯t over!"

    With that, she broke free with force, storming off in her high heels.

    The manager¡¯s livid gaze fell upon the two of them as he suppressed his anger, "You two,e with me."

    Gu Xiaoxiao fixed her disheveled hair and followed Su Qingnuan into the office.

    "No matter what the manager says, don¡¯t talk. Got it?" Su Qingnuan instructed carefully, clutching her face.

    Gu Xiaoxiao nodded with a sigh, "Got it. You handle this."

    She admitted her eloquence was no match for Su Qingnuan¡¯s.

    Once inside, the manager sat in his chair and stared them down coldly.

    "Exin. What happened?"

    Su Qingnuan calmly recounted the series of events, concluding, "Manager, fighting at the office¡ªI admit we were at fault. However, we weren¡¯t the instigators; we were forced into it."

    The manager sneered, "I haven¡¯t even made my point, and here you are giving your defense."

    "...It¡¯s just that Hongjie appeared so abruptly, and we couldn¡¯t avoid the altercation."

    She released her hand, exposing her cheek, "This p was Hongjie¡¯s doing. Our actions were in self-defense."

    "..."

 Chapter 194: In a Difficult Position

    <h4>Chapter 194: Chapter 194: In a Difficult Position</h4>

    The supervisor¡¯s expression grew darker.

    "So what you¡¯re saying is, this time, it¡¯s not your fault?"

    Su Qingnuan shook her head and replied rationally, "We are at fault too."

    "As long as you admit your mistake." The supervisor leaned on the table and said coldly, "This month¡¯s perfect attendance bonus will be deducted. Damaging public property¡ªgo pay the fine yourselves."

    "....." Gu Xiaoxiao nced at Su Qingnuan, whose expression was barely holding together, and sneered, "Supervisor, what about Sister Hong? Shouldn¡¯t Sister Hong pay the fine too? How about the three of us split it evenly?"

    "Sister Hong isn¡¯t in our department. She¡¯s not under my direct management."

    The supervisor waved dismissively, his tone filled with disdain, "Look at your current appearances. Such a disgrace. Get out now!"

    Su Qingnuan: "..."

    This supervisor was promoted after that incident. He¡¯s quite familiar with the people in the R&D department, but on the contrary, much closer to Sister Hong and the HR department.

    During leisure times, many gossip sessions float around thepany, and Su Qingnuan had overheard some.

    Back then, she treated those rumors as a joke, but seeing the supervisor¡¯s behavior now, those gossip might be closer to the truth than she thought.

    Sister Hong was the HR supervisor. Everyone had to listen to her. There¡¯s no way she would fine herself.

    Poor Su Qingnuan and Gu Xiaoxiao¡ªthey hadn¡¯t been in thepany for long but had already been fined countless times.

    "Supervisor." Su Qingnuan took a deep breath and bitterly asked, "There¡¯s no room for negotiation, is there?"

    The supervisor raised his eyes and said expressionlessly, "Do I look like I¡¯m open to negotiation with you?"

    So there¡¯s no room for negotiation.

    Gu Xiaoxiao wanted to say more but was stopped by Su Qingnuan.

    "Fine, we¡¯ll do as the supervisor says."

    After speaking, she decisively pulled Gu Xiaoxiao out of the office.

    Outside the office, Su Qingnuan finally let go of Gu Xiaoxiao.

    "Qingnuan!" Gu Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth, "How can you ept such humiliation?"

    Su Qingnuan gently brushed aside Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s messy bangs and said calmly, "Go to the restroom first, fix your appearance, and then return to work. Don¡¯t bring this matter up again today."

    Seeing herposed demeanor, Gu Xiaoxiao didn¡¯t quite understand, "You¡¯re just letting it go like this?"

    "Let it go?" Su Qingnuan shook her head and clenched her fists, "No way I¡¯m letting it go."

    "Then you..."

    Facing Su Qingnuan¡¯s enraged gaze, Gu Xiaoxiao froze slightly.

    "Xiaoxiao." Su Qingnuan pressed Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s shoulders and said gravely, "We¡¯re just interns right now. As we are now, we can¡¯t do anything. We¡¯ll wait."

    Wait until their status changes, until the moment they can strike back¡ªshe would make her pay.

    "...Alright." Gu Xiaoxiao suddenly reached out to hug Su Qingnuan. "I¡¯ll go fix my hair. You go back first."

    "Alright."

    Su Qingnuan returned to her desk and, looking up, found that many people were staring at her.

    She raised a hand to touch her burning face and couldn¡¯t help but frown.

    Earlier, she had looked in the mirror¡ªshe knew her face was swollen.

    If she went home with this face today, aside from her grandfather, Fu Yihan wouldn¡¯t know how to react.

    After thinking for a while, Su Qingnuan decided to push through the difort and went downstairs to the convenience store. She bought a mask and some medicine.

    The cool ointment did nothing to reduce the swelling on her face; instead, it made the redness more noticeable.

    Su Qingnuan anxiously stared at the clock, wishing time would pass slower.

    Yet even by the end of the workday, the marks on her face hadn¡¯t subsided.

    Staring at her reflection in frustration, Su Qingnuan hesitated about whether to stayte at work.

    "Why are you just sitting there?" Gu Xiaoxiao knocked on Su Qingnuan¡¯s desk, "Let¡¯s go. Time to clock out."

    Su Qingnuan put down her phone and looked pitifully at Gu Xiaoxiao.

    Seeing the fresh red marks on her face, Gu Xiaoxiao teased, "You know, your face usually has no color at all, but like this, it actually looks a bit better."

    "Get lost!" Su Qingnuan shot back irritably, "I don¡¯t dare to go back."

    "Why not?" Gu Xiaoxiao asked with confusion, "Did you fight with Mr. Fu?"

    "No."

    Su Qingnuan pointed to her face helplessly. "If I go back looking like this, I don¡¯t know how Mr. Fu will react."

    "You got hit¡ªof course he¡¯ll feel bad for you and find a way to get justice for you!"

    Saying this, Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s eyes lit up, and she looked at Su Qingnuan expectantly. "With the Fu family being so powerful, will he get furious for the sake of hisdy and directly acquire thispany?"

    "...You should read fewer romance novels."

    "Hey, I¡¯m just upset on your behalf...." She propped her chin and looked at Su Qingnuan curiously. "But honestly, if Fu Yihan found out, he¡¯d definitely be angry, wouldn¡¯t he?"

    "Exactly."

    Su Qingnuan stood up and grabbed her belongings, sighing, "It¡¯s precisely because I know he¡¯ll be angry that I don¡¯t know what to do."

    "What¡¯s there to overthink? Deal with it when you¡¯re home¡ªI¡¯m starving."

    Being rushed by Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan reluctantly grabbed her things and headed downstairs.

    As she walked out, she put on her mask and looked around.

    "Hey!" Gu Xiaoxiao on her right nudged her yfully, "Over there! Stop looking like a thief sneaking around."

    Following Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s gaze, Su Qingnuan spotted Fu Yihan¡¯s understated car.

    "I¡¯m heading back first." Su Qingnuan said muffledly, "Don¡¯t forget to do what I handed over to you."

    "Got it. Go quickly."

    Su Qingnuan jogged toward the car and opened the door.

    "Mr. Fu."

    "Mm."

    A curt response without even looking up.

    Su Qingnuan exhaled in relief and got in the car.

    Just like usual, Fu Yihan was focused on his phone, seemingly deep into whatever he was reading.

    Su Qingnuan silently prayed he wouldn¡¯t look up and gazed out the window instead.

    "Young Madam." A-Qi nced at the person in the backseat with a slight frown. "Why are you wearing a mask?"

    Damn it.....

    Fu Yihan lifted his head to look at Su Qingnuan.

    "Is it cold?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded hastily and replied in a soft voice, "Probably because of the recent drop in temperature."

    "A-Qi, turn up the heat." Fu Yihan said expressionlessly.

    "Understood."

    As the car¡¯s interior warmed up, Su Qingnuan began to sweat lightly on her forehead.

    Cautiously tugging at her mask, she wiped away the sweat.

    "Still not taking it off?"

    The sudden question startled Su Qingnuan, making her turn her head.

    Facing those icy eyes, Su Qingnuan froze.

    Fu Yihan quietly stared at her, his gaze scrutinizing.

    "Actually..." Su Qingnuan covered her throat and coughed lightly twice, "I think I might have caught a cold. I didn¡¯t want to risk infecting you, Mr. Fu."

    There was a flicker in that deep gaze¡ªa fleeting, unreadable emotion shed through.

    "Take it off."

    His tone was firm and frosty, his cold eyes silently locked onto Su Qingnuan.

    ".....Can I not?" Su Qingnuan ventured tentatively.

    Fu Yihan raised his brows but remained silent.

    It seemed negotiation wasn¡¯t an option.

    Su Qingnuan sighed and carefully removed her mask.

    "Turn around."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan obediently turned, facing Fu Yihan directly.

    His icy gaze grew even colder, with a hint of frost.

    The once warm car interior instantly felt like it had dropped several degrees.

    "Who did this?"

    His voice was cier-cold, almost trembling with suppressed anger.

    Su Qingnuan covered her cheek, forcing a bitter smile. "If I said I did it to myself, would you believe me, Mr. Fu?"

 Chapter 195 The Fool

    <h4>Chapter 195: Chapter 195 The Fool</h4>

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, sneering, "Do I look like an idiot to you?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare to respond; she truly didn¡¯t know how to exin to Fu Yihan about this matter.

    If she made it sound serious, it would involve internalpany issues; if she made light of it, it would be a personal matter.

    Either way, neither seemed particrly appropriate to say aloud.

    "You got beaten up at thepany, didn¡¯t say anything, and you think I wouldn¡¯t find out?"

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan frowned, lowering her voice, "Mr. Fu, I think I can handle this matter myself. You really don¡¯t need to..."

    "You can handle it?" Fu Yihan¡¯s voice turned icy, his gaze brimming with cold malice, "If you could handle it, you wouldn¡¯t be standing before me with five ring red marks on your face, would you?"

    "...It was just an ident."

    Had she known Sister Hong would act so recklessly, she would never have stood there.

    "An ident? Haha."

    Two coldughs escaped, and Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze.

    Seeing that he no longer spoke, an inexplicable unease grew within Su Qingnuan.

    The tense atmosphere inside the car continued to linger. Su Qingnuan gritted her teeth, her fingers nervously twisting the edge of her shirt.

    The previously smooth fabric was now bunched and wrinkled in her hands.

    By the time they arrived at the Fu residence, Fu Yihan still hadn¡¯t uttered another word.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s emotions felt like they were riding a rollercoaster, leaving her deeply unsettled.

    When they got out of the car, Su Qingnuan leaned in to help, but Fu Yihan¡¯s icy demeanor fell upon her like an arctic cier.

    "Don¡¯t." Fu Yihan rejected her, coldly pushing her hand away.

    "...."

    Su Qingnuan stood frozen in ce, watching as A-Qi pushed Fu Yihan into the house without acknowledging her at all.

    It seemed he was truly angry...

    His heart was truly impossible to fathom¡ªlike a needle at the bottom of the ocean¡ªhe¡¯d get angry for no apparent reason, impossible to predict.

    Following behind the two into the house, Su Qingnuan constantly observed Fu Yihan¡¯s expression.

    That person, however, remained cold as iron, showing no change in demeanor.

    "Mr. Fu?" Su Qingnuan approached him with a faint smile, "Do you feel like having soup today?"

    Fu Yihan shot her a cold nce, "I don¡¯t want to see you."

    "..."

    Though he had been angry before, he¡¯d never been this heartlessly cold.

    "Mr. Fu..." Su Qingnuan managed a bitter smile, "I truly didn¡¯t mean to hide anything from you intentionally."

    "Not intentionally?" Fu Yihan sneered, "Then deliberately, perhaps?"

    "That¡¯s not it either..." Su Qingnuan frowned, resignation washing over her, "It¡¯s just...to speak of it feels quite humiliating, so I didn¡¯t know how to say it."

    "Humiliating?" Fu Yihan¡¯s icy smile deepened, "When you were cleaning thepany toilets, no one thought you were humiliated then. But now you do?"

    "..."

    So he¡¯d known about that...

    Su Qingnuan let out a sigh, discouraged, "That incident was due to special circumstances; it¡¯s not how Mr. Fu interprets it."

    "How do I interpret it? Do you mean to say that since you¡¯re bullied at thepany, I¡¯m supposed to help you out?"

    "..."

    That¡¯s precisely what Su Qingnuan had thought.

    She had assumed their rtionship...was at least better than what it turned out to be...

    "Was it...not?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s already pale face turned nearly translucent.

    "Of course not."

    Fu Yihan shifted his gaze back forward, his sharp profile directed at her, his stare devoid of feeling fixed on the television ahead.

    "Alright..." Su Qingnuan stood up, forcing a weak smile, "I understand now¡ªI was being foolishly sentimental."

    With that, she turned and went upstairs.

    Pressing her hand against her chest, she breathed heavily.

    For some reason, her chest felt suddenly suffocated¡ªthe kind of suffocation that was unbearably ufortable.

    Back in her room, the enclosed quiet space failed to provide Su Qingnuan with any sense of security.

    She crouched down, curling tightly into herself.

    It¡¯s fine...

    Su Qingnuan whispered to herself, trying to soothe her thoughts. Don¡¯t think about these things; it¡¯s all fine.

    In the Su family, hadn¡¯t she long grown used to this?

    Being ignored; being unloved...

    So it¡¯s okay¡ªthis is merely the norm. As long as she didn¡¯t care, no grief would apany it.

    She crouched in the corner, her head buried against her knees, her breathing quickened.

    Outside, the sunlight slowly dimmed, and the surroundings blurred into indistinct shadows.

    She had lost track of time, but eventually, Su Qingnuan¡¯s breathing returned to normal.

    She slowly raised her head, gazing at the pitch-ck room, feeling a sense of aimlessness.

    Bracing her legs, she stood up gradually, only to lose her bnce the moment she did, falling sideways.

    "Thud¡ª"

    Her head hurt...

    And then Su Qingnuan lost consciousness.

    ...

    In her dreams, Su Qingnuan returned to her childhood.

    She shyly followed behind her mother, with Su Yuerou beside her.

    Her mother held Su Yuerou in her arms while leading her by the hand.

    The two of them, being close in age, were often mistaken as twins.

    But Su Qingnuan knew deep down that they were nothing alike¡ªSu Yuerou had a cute and exquisite appearance, while shecked such striking features.

    This disparity had always made Su Qingnuan feel a certain inferiority around Su Yuerou since childhood.

    When Su Qingnuan grew tired of walking, she tried to act spoiled with her mother.

    But her mother mercilessly let go of her hand, coldly saying, "If you don¡¯t walk, I¡¯ll leave you here."

    Su Qingnuan was terrified, clutching at her mother¡¯s clothes in a panic.

    Seeing her frightened expression, her mother showed nopassion but swatted her hand away and sternly said, "Walk by yourself."

    That stern, cold face expanded in Su Qingnuan¡¯s mind, growingrger andrger...

    She didn¡¯t want to walk alone¡ªno, she didn¡¯t!

    Suddenly, her eyes opened wide, her chest rising and falling with agitation, her breathingbored.

    "Madam, calm down."

    A hand pressed firmly against her shoulder, not entirely gentle, patting her back repeatedly.

    Her gaze began to focus on the familiar white surroundings, slowly pulling her back to reality.

    So this was... the hospital?

    The stark white bedsheets, the smell of disinfectant, and then...

    Lianyi held her shoulder, looking at her with concern.

    "Lianyi?" Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "Why are you here?"

    Lianyi gave a wry smile, "Madam, you fainted in your room. If Eldest Young Master hadn¡¯t sent me to check on you, we wouldn¡¯t have known until muchter!"

    Fu Yihan?

    Recalling what Fu Yihan had said, the dull pain in her chest returned.

    Her face pale, Su Qingnuan clutched her chest.

    "What¡¯s wrong, what¡¯s wrong?" Lianyi asked, her concern overflowing.

    Su Qingnuan managed a weak smile, shaking her head, "Nothing, just feeling a bit tight in my chest."

    "You fainted because of your condition," Lianyi said with exasperation. "The doctor warned you to avoid emotional extremes. How can you still be so reckless at your age?"

    She frowned deeply, scolding Su Qingnuan like she was reprimanding a child.

    Her tone, although blunt, strangely didn¡¯t annoy Su Qingnuan.

    "I understand." Su Qingnuan smiled softly, "I know everything you¡¯re saying, but sometimes, people just can¡¯t control their emotions..."

    "True." Lianyi nodded in agreement, sighing, "Just like our Eldest Young Master. Desperately worried about you but too proud toe personally."

 Chapter 196 Itéˆ¥æªš My Fault

    <h4>Chapter 196: Chapter 196 It¡¯s My Fault</h4>

    Fu Yihan...

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head, her smile tinged with bitterness. "I can¡¯t really me Mr. Fu. He was already angry. How could he possiblye to the hospital to see me?"

    "Angry?" Lianyi froze for a moment, then looked at Su Qingnuan curiously. "That can¡¯t be right! When the Eldest Young Master saw you pass out, he was so tense. How could he be angry at you?"

    She had always known her cousin to be cold, both in demeanor and heart. Seeing him flustered was a rare phenomenon¡ªshe¡¯d been waiting to enjoy the spectacle.

    "It¡¯s just..." Su Qingnuan pointed to her own cheek.

    Her overly paleplexion made the marks on her face stand out even more prominently.

    "Huh? I didn¡¯t even notice that." Lianyi stared at her cheek in shock. "Don¡¯t tell me the Eldest Young Master did that?"

    "No." Su Qingnuan chuckled lightly. "Mr. Fu might be cold and distant, but he wouldn¡¯t go as far as physically hitting someone."

    "...Is that so?" Lianyi awkwardly smiled and pressed further. "Then what exactly happened?"

    Giving a brief recount of the incident, Su Qingnuan sighed helplessly, "That¡¯s all. It¡¯s not really a big deal."

    "How can you say it¡¯s not a big deal?!" Lianyi stood up angrily, fuming. "They dared to hit the boss¡¯s wife¡ªare they trying to invite disaster?!"

    "Shh." Pulling Lianyi back down, Su Qingnuan whispered softly, "Don¡¯t speak so loudly."

    "Young Madam, this won¡¯t do." Lianyi lowered her voice but remained firm, staring seriously at Su Qingnuan. "You¡¯re the Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife¡ªhow could you allow people to bully you outside? If word gets out, it¡¯s not just Eldest Young Master¡¯s reputation at stake but also the family¡¯s!"

    "But... I have no power or influence now. If I retaliate, it¡¯ll only invite trouble from those above. Besides..."

    Besides, it was Fu Yihan¡¯spany. She didn¡¯t want to bring unnecessary trouble to him.

    "How could you think this way?" Lianyi, exasperated by Su Qingnuan¡¯sck of resolve, pped the bed hard. "Your greatest backing is the Eldest Young Master! Who is he? Thepany¡¯s owner! You entered thepany on merit¡ªno one has the right to make things difficult for you, let alone fire you!"

    "But..."

    She hesitated, lowering her head. Even though Lianyi was right... would Fu Yihan stand by her?

    "What¡¯s there to hesitate about?" Lianyi gripped Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulders tightly and said emphatically, "Young Madam, you need to return the p! I guarantee the Eldest Young Master will be pleased and won¡¯t be angry anymore!"

    "...Really?"

    "Of course, it¡¯s true."

    Su Qingnuan stared at her skeptically, and after a long pause, she looked away and sighed. "I¡¯ll think about it..."

    "..."

    If she rushed to p someone outright, it would only reflect poorly on her. There had to be an appropriate excuse.

    Watching Su Qingnuan lower her gaze in deep thought, Lianyi sighed deeply.

    Her sister-inw was wonderful in every way, except her personality was far too soft¡ªand self-deprecating.

    Despite having every advantage, she never knew how to make use of them.

    After spending half a day for observation at the hospital and confirming she was fine, Su Qingnuan finally decided to leave.

    The person picking her up was Ah Qi. Noticing the empty back seat, Su Qingnuan¡¯s disappointment was painfully obvious, causing Ah Qi to pause.

    "The Old Master kept the Eldest Young Master behind," Ah Qi exined.

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment and looked at Ah Qi. "Grandpa wanted to speak with Mr. Fu?"

    "Mm. I heard it¡¯s about thepany."

    Understanding the situation, Su Qingnuan¡¯s disappointment faded as she nodded.

    When she got home, she saw Fu Yihan and the Old Master ying chess in the teahouse, just as she expected.

    From a distance, she stole a nce at them but didn¡¯t go over to disturb their game. Instead, she settled onto the sofa and waited for them to finish their conversation.

    Opening her phone, she began reading Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s messages.

    The earlier messages mostly contained technical questions.

    As Su Qingnuan never responded, Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s tone turned increasingly dramatic.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Did you get hospitalized again?!

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Where are you? Why aren¡¯t you answering me?

    Gu Xiaoxiao: If you don¡¯t appear soon, I¡¯m calling the police!

    Seeing Gu Xiaoxiao¡¯s overly animated messages and emojis, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    Su Qingnuan: I¡¯m fine.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: If you¡¯re fine, why didn¡¯t youe to work? You¡¯ve changed¡ªyou¡¯re cking off now.

    Su Qingnuan smiled faintly: I¡¯m not cking off. The marks on my face are still too obvious; I don¡¯t want to show up at the office.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: ...

    Thinking that this would be enough to pacify Gu Xiaoxiao, Su Qingnuan underestimated her sharpness.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier? Did you go off somewhere for fun?

    Su Qingnuan: Yes, a stay-at-home day tour. Do you want to experience it?

    Gu Xiaoxiao: At the Fu Estate? Sounds interesting. I heard there¡¯s a private swimming pool¡ªis it true?

    The swimming pool did exist, but no one in the household seemed to use it much.

    Su Qingnuan: You¡¯re wee toe, but you¡¯ll have to pay entrance fees.

    Gu Xiaoxiao: Forget it. I¡¯m not going then.

    Mentioning money instantly made the little rascal stingy.

    Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t help curling her lips,ughing softly.

    "What are you chatting about that made youugh so much?"

    Su Qingnuan paused and looked up, meeting the Old Master¡¯s amused gaze.

    "Grandpa." She quickly stood, shing a soft smile. "I was just exchanging a few words with a friend."

    "Why are you home so early from work today?" The Old Master sat down and asked with a smile.

    "I..."

    "She¡¯sing with me tonight."

    Su Qingnuan paused in confusion and turned to Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan sat impassively, his gaze not lingering on her.

    "You¡¯re heading out?" The Old Master¡¯s grin widened. "So, you were rushing to leave earlier just to take Qingnuan out? You should¡¯ve told me sooner! I wouldn¡¯t have kept you."

    Without further ado, he waved a hand dismissively and urged them, "Hurry up. Don¡¯t waste time with this old man."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan stood there awkwardly, while Fu Yihan calmly met her gaze and said, "Aren¡¯t you going to push my wheelchair?"

    At his words, Su Qingnuan moved quickly, ushering him out.

    As they exited the vi, they ran into Lianyi, who was carrying something inside.

    "Eldest Young Master, Young Madam, are you heading out?"

    Su Qingnuan nced at the ck bag in Lianyi¡¯s hands and asked curiously, "What¡¯s that?"

    "..." Lianyi shot a quick look at Fu Yihan and awkwardly replied, "A courier package I picked up."

    She knew she had more leeway in the Fu family than most, but this level of casualness surprised Su Qingnuan.

    Fu Yihan gave her a cold nce but said nothing.

    Seeing this, Lianyi clung tightly to her package. "Young Madam, I¡¯ll head inside first."

    With that, she sprinted indoors, refusing to linger.

    Watching Lianyi¡¯s cheerful retreat, Su Qingnuan couldn¡¯t resist a small smile.

    "What are you looking at?"

    An icy voice sounded in her ears, startling Su Qingnuan into lowering her gaze and stifling herughter.

    "Mr. Fu, where are we heading?" she asked.

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t answer. Instead, he looked toward the car in the courtyard and instructed, "Get in."

    Without asking more, Su Qingnuan assisted Fu Yihan into the vehicle.

    Once inside, the silence between them was tense and oppressive.

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare speak, while Fu Yihan, being naturally reserved, made the atmosphere even quieter.

 Chapter 197 Hope

    <h4>Chapter 197: Chapter 197 Hope</h4>

    To ease the awkwardness, Su Qingnuan could only turn her head to look out the window.

    The rapidly passing scenery felt like a blur, an endless stream that couldn¡¯t be taken in clearly.

    "Cover your face."

    A mask suddenly appeared on herp.

    Su Qingnuan was momentarily stunned and turned her head to look at Fu Yihan.

    His gaze was deep, as if he were looking at Su Qingnuan, yet not truly focused on her.

    Obediently, she put on the mask, and the car came to a halt.

    It was still the same vi asst time, with two figures loungingzily by the entrance, their expressions carefree.

    "Oh! You¡¯re here." Gong Qi approached, helping Fu Yihan out of the car, smiling warmly as he greeted Su Qingnuan, "Hi, sister-inw!"

    Su Qingnuan awkwardly nodded and replied with a smile, "Hello."

    Her voice was muffled, her face still covered by the mask, making her look rather unusual.

    Qin Chuan¡¯s cool gaze swept over her briefly before retracting just as quickly.

    "Why are you all standing at the door?" Fu Yihan¡¯s icy tone sounded. "Go inside and sit."

    "We were bored sitting inside the house, so we came out here to wait for you."

    Gong Qi pushed the wheelchair forward, and after a few steps, he stopped and turned to Su Qingnuan, who was still standing there, puzzled. "Sister-inw, aren¡¯t youing?"

    "Ah... I¡¯ming."

    Su Qingnuan lowered her head and followed quietly.

    The four of them went directly to the basement.

    Fu Yihany down, undergoing tests with the equipment.

    Su Qingnuan and Gong Qi stayed outside, watching Qin Chuan operate through the ss.

    "Sister-inw, you¡¯re unusually quiet today."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan smiled politely. "Am I?"

    She always spoke very little when dealing with them.

    "Yes, you are." Gong Qi rubbed the corner of his eye helplessly. "And here, you didn¡¯t cover it."

    "....."

    Su Qingnuan turned, pulled out her phone, and used it to hide the exposed red mark.

    "Yihan wouldn¡¯t do something so inconsiderate, right?" Gong Qi tentatively asked.

    "No!" Su Qingnuan waved her hand frantically, her voice urgent. "It wasn¡¯t Mr. Fu."

    Gong Qi breathed a sigh of relief. "That¡¯s fine then. Don¡¯t worry, Yihan will make sure justice is served for you."

    "..."

    Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t dare to continue the conversation, afraid that if Fu Yihan found out, he¡¯d only get angry again.

    After Fu Yihan finished the tests, Qin Chuan pushed him back out.

    "You all go upstairs and wait for me."

    So the three headed upstairs.

    Fu Yihan sat on the sofa, his eyes closed, seemingly taking a nap.

    Gong Qi enthusiastically made coffee for the group.

    "Here, sister-inw, have some coffee."

    Su Qingnuan smiled and reached out to take the cup.

    "No coffee."

    Her hand froze mid-air, and both she and Gong Qi turned to look at Fu Yihan.

    Still keeping his eyes shut, Fu Yihan spoke slowly, "We¡¯ll have tea. Go make tea."

    "..... Why the sudden change of preference?" Gong Qi asked in confusion.

    "Changed, that¡¯s all. Why ask why?"

    "... Fine, your tastes dictate everything."

    Resigned, Gong Qi got up and went into the kitchen.

    Su Qingnuan turned her head to look at Fu Yihan, the corners of her mouth lifting slightly as she whispered, "Mr. Fu, thank you."

    He knew she couldn¡¯t drink coffee.

    The eyes that had remained shut finally opened slowly, squinting as they looked at Su Qingnuan.

    Meeting her gentle smile, he let out a cold snort and closed his eyes again.

    Su Qingnuan¡¯s smile faltered slightly, and she lowered her head in silence.

    Before Gong Qi returned, Qin Chuan came back first.

    Holding an X-ray in his hand, his face was full of joy.

    "Good news." Qin Chuan ced the X-ray on the table, beaming, "Look here, this section is starting to heal and fuse together. Our previous observations were correct."

    Fu Yihan abruptly sat upright, his eyes zing as he stared at the X-ray.

    "Does this mean Mr. Fu¡¯s leg can stand again?" Su Qingnuan¡¯s face lit up with joy as she asked excitedly.

    Qin Chuan gave her a deep look and nodded, "Yes."

    "That¡¯s wonderful!" Su Qingnuan turned to look at Fu Yihan, her expression full of excitement. "Mr. Fu, you can stand again."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s hand, resting at his side, suddenly clenched tightly, gripping the pillow as his expression remained unchanged.

    Seeing hisck of joy, Su Qingnuan asked in confusion, "Mr. Fu, aren¡¯t you happy?"

    "He¡¯s not unhappy, he¡¯s overwhelmed with happiness." Gong Qi ced the tea down and pointed to his fingers,ughing. "This guy keeps such a stern face he¡¯s forgotten how to smile."

    Fu Yihan turned and shot him a re.

    Looking at Fu Yihan¡¯s whitening fingertips, Su Qingnuan understood and smiled.

    With this good news, the subsequent conversation became much easier.

    Qin Chuan outlined multiple rehabilitation tasks, requiring Fu Yihan¡¯s cooperation.

    One particr task involved Fu Yihan walking along a rail for an hour each day, which had to bepleted daily without fail.

    "I¡¯ll arrange for the necessary equipment to be installed at your home. Tomorrow..."

    "No." Fu Yihan interrupted Qin Chuan, "Install it here."

    Qin Chuan frowned and said, "But it¡¯s something you¡¯ll need to do every day. Installing it at home would be far more convenient. You can¡¯te here daily, can you?"

    Fu Yihan didn¡¯t speak, his gaze unwavering.

    Seeing this, Qin Chuan tried to persuade him further but was stopped by Gong Qi.

    "Alright, you know how Yihan¡¯s leg ended up like this. A bit of extra caution doesn¡¯t hurt. I support having follow-ups here too."

    "..... But who¡¯lle with him every day? It¡¯s impossible for him to manage alone."

    Fu Yihan turned his gaze toward Su Qingnuan, a deep andplex emotion flickering in his eyes.

    Noticing his stare, Gong Qi chuckled, cing his hands on Su Qingnuan¡¯s shoulders with a lightugh, "Sister-inw, apanying Yihan for his follow-ups is now your responsibility."

    "Huh?" Su Qingnuan looked up in shock, meeting Fu Yihan¡¯s gaze.

    His expression carried hints of probing and regret.

    Seeing Su Qingnuan¡¯s reaction, Fu Yihan withdrew his gaze and said coldly, "No need. I can do it on my own."

    "..."

    Intending to speak, Gong Qi nced at Fu Yihan¡¯s rigid demeanor and sighed, choosing to stay silent.

    Leaving the vi, Su Qingnuan could clearly sense that Fu Yihan was even less inclined to interact with her.

    Despite his cold attitude, Fu Yihan persisted in having a meal outside before heading back.

    In the private dining room, it was just the two of them, making the atmosphere even more tense.

    Su Qingnuan nervously twisted the hem of her clothes, sneaking nces at Fu Yihan.

    Noticing her stare, he raised his head.

    Their eyes met.

    Su Qingnuan quickly looked away, bowing her head and silently berating herself for herck of courage.

    "What do you want to say?" Fu Yihan asked calmly.

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan raised her head cautiously, looking at him. "Mr. Fu, could I discuss something with you?"

    "Speak."

    His tone brimming with impatience.

    Su Qingnuan pouted, her expression aggrieved. "I know you don¡¯t like me following you, but rehab is something you simply can¡¯t do alone. Please allow me to apany you, will you?"

    Her demeanor was pitiful, and as she spoke, she leaned forward slightly, gazing at Fu Yihan with anticipation.

    His hand, in the middle of reaching for his tea, paused briefly as his expression grewplicated while he looked at Su Qingnuan.

    "You want to go?" he asked.

    Su Qingnuan nodded frantically, answering with conviction, "Of course I do."

    From Qin Chuan¡¯s earlier words, Fu Yihan¡¯s healing was partly associated with her experimenting with herbs.

    As this was her first "patient," Su Qingnuan naturally hoped to be there for the entire process.

 Chapter 198 Not Angry Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 198: Chapter 198 Not Angry Anymore</h4>

    The chill in the air suddenly dissipated.

    Fu Yihan¡¯s lips curved slightly upward, his eyes softening for a moment.

    "Since you want to go so badly, it wouldn¡¯t be right for me to say no."

    "So, does that mean you agree?" Su Qingnuan asked cautiously.

    Fu Yihan nodded. "Mm."

    "That¡¯s great!" Su Qingnuan eximed excitedly. "How about we go every day after work?"

    "Mm."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s attitude visibly improved.

    Whatever Su Qingnuan said, he would respond with a few words.

    When the waiter finished serving the dishes and Su Qingnuan pulled down her mask to prepare to eat, Fu Yihan¡¯s expression suddenly darkened again.

    Noticing his gaze, Su Qingnuan covered her face and smiled bitterly. "I can¡¯t eat with the mask on."

    Fu Yihan¡¯s eyes fixed intensely on her cheek, his expression cold and serious.

    Suddenly recalling what Lianyi had said at the hospital, Su Qingnuan hurriedly added, "Mr. Fu, don¡¯t worry. Tomorrow, when I go to thepany, I¡¯ll p her to settle the score! I didn¡¯t tell you because I wanted to handle it myself!"

    His expression rxed slightly, and Fu Yihan looked away, nodding calmly. "Mm. If you can¡¯t handle it, call me."

    "... All right."

    Just as Lianyi had predicted, Fu Yihan ceased mentioning the matter and treated Su Qingnuan more amicably.

    The meal ended on a rtively harmonious note.

    After dinner, the two of them took the elevator downstairs.

    Suddenly, a group of children swarmed into the elevator, surrounding them in the center.

    Faced with the curious stares of the children, Fu Yihan¡¯s expression darkened significantly.

    He hated being touched by others, let alone being stared at so boldly.

    However, the children looked at him with innocent curiosity, nothing more.

    Su Qingnuan pulled out a handful of candy from her pocket and smiled. "Kids, would you like some candy?"

    Seeing this, the children surged forward, encircling Su Qingnuanpletely.

    This left a clear space next to Fu Yihan.

    He turned his head, watching Su Qingnuan surrounded by the group of children.

    Though her face was full of helplessness, she patiently distributed candy to each child.

    Was she always this patient?

    With him, and with others as well?

    Looking at the smile in Su Qingnuan¡¯s eyes, Fu Yihan suddenly had a mischievous thought: how nice would it be if her gaze were only for him?

    This thought shed through his mind briefly but was promptly captured by Fu Yihan.

    Surprised by his own idea, he quickly reasoned it away.

    He¡¯d known all along about his possessiveness; there was nothing unusual about it.

    "Ding¡ª"

    The elevator door opened, and the children rushed out.

    ncing at the now-empty elevator, Su Qingnuan smiled faintly. "Kids are so lively."

    "Mm." Fu Yihan looked away and asked nonchntly, "Do you like children?"

    Su Qingnuan froze for a moment, then nodded shyly. "They¡¯re cute at this age."

    "If you like them, you could consider having one," Fu Yihan said suddenly.

    His voice was soft, and with the elevator doors opening just then, the noisy sounds from outside drowned out his words. Su Qingnuan didn¡¯t catch them.

    "Mr. Fu, what did you say?"

    She tilted her head, moving closer to Fu Yihan to hear him clearly.

    When Fu Yihan turned his head, he was confronted by her fair neck.

    Her skin was pale, and her neck looked like a tender jelly, making Fu Yihan¡¯s mouth water.

    His throat moved involuntarily, and he gritted his teeth. "Nothing."

    Seeing the gritted-teeth expression on his face, Su Qingnuan was startled.

    He quickly wheeled himself out, and Su Qingnuan hurried after him.

    "Mr. Fu, are you mad again?" Su Qingnuan observed his face cautiously, her voice low.

    Fu Yihan paused, stopped, and turned his head to look at her.

    "Who¡¯s mad?" he asked.

    "... No one."

    Noticing her hesitant demeanor, Fu Yihan frowned. "I¡¯m not mad. What are you scared of? Come here and push me."

    Hearing this, Su Qingnuan breathed a sigh of relief and pushed Fu Yihan forward.

    ...

    On the way back, Su Qingnuan kept observing Fu Yihan. When she saw that he indeed wasn¡¯t upset, she finally rxed.

    The old man was eating dinner when he saw the two of them and smiled. "Have you already eaten?"

    Su Qingnuan nodded with a smile. "We ate outside."

    Smiling gently, the old man turned his gaze to Fu Yihan. "Yihan, your brother is here. Why don¡¯t youe over and talk about your ns?"

    Hearing this, Fu Yixing put down his chopsticks and turned to look at Fu Yihan.

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow, wheeling himself over.

    "Fu Yixing," Fu Yihan said calmly as he faced him. "Grandfather asked me to return and assist you in managing thepany. I agreed."

    "..."

    He spoke so matter-of-factly, exuding calm confidence.

    Fu Yixing sneered and looked at the old man.

    "Grandfather, are we just going to disregard our previous agreement?"

    The old man sighed helplessly. "Yixing, you¡¯ve seen the state of the Fu family. If this continues, it¡¯s going to be hard to maintain the status quo. You two are brothers; you should support each other."

    Fu Yixing sneered. "I don¡¯t need it."

    "...Yixing," the old man said sternly, "don¡¯t be so stubborn. Yihan will report to thepany tomorrow. You¡¯re still the president, and Yihan will be the vice president."

    Upon hearing this, Su Qingnuan looked at Fu Yihan in surprise.

    How could someone like Fu Yihan, who wasn¡¯t the type to y second fiddle, suddenly change his stance after all this time?

    Su Qingnuan wasn¡¯t the only one surprised; so was Fu Yixing.

    Staring at Fu Yihan with aplex expression, he asked, "You¡¯re willing to be the vice president?"

    Fu Yihan raised an eyebrow. "I¡¯ll only handle project-rted matters. Internalpany decisions have nothing to do with me."

    In other words, he¡¯ll focus on external affairs, not internal ones.

    Relieved, Fu Yixing rxed slightly. "Fine, but you have to agree to three conditions."

    "Three conditions?" Fu Yihan smirked, ncing at the old man.

    The old man quickly stood up. "There¡¯s no need for conditions between family."

    "No way," Fu Yixing said firmly. "For the sake of avoiding unnecessary disputes, agreements must be made in advance."

    "Heh!"

    Fu Yihan chuckled coldly, saying nothing.

    The old man gave him a nervous nce and forced a dryugh. "Fine, let¡¯s hear them."

    "First," Fu Yixing began, "since you¡¯ve said you won¡¯t meddle in internal affairs, this must be formally announced within thepany. I¡¯m still the one in charge."

    "This...," the old man looked to Fu Yihan for confirmation.

    Fu Yihan nodded. "Fine."

    "Okay, what¡¯s the second condition?"

    Fu Yixing smiled and pointed at Fu Yihan. "Since you¡¯re returning to thepany, you have to follow regr office hours. Employees must not think we¡¯re ying favorites."

    "No problem," the old man agreed immediately.

    Fu Yihan snorted but did not object.

    "Third... Since you¡¯re only managing the project department, you can¡¯t be the vice president. You should go directly to the project department."

    "No way!" the old man said firmly. "The project department only has a managerial position. Do you want me to demote someone? He¡¯ll remain vice president."

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