《The Empress's Transmigration into a Magnate's Wife》


 Chapter 1: The Queen of the Kingdom has Crossed over

    <h4>Chapter 1</h4>


    Drip��


    "Hurry! The patient''s heart has stopped beating, she''s not breathing! Begin resuscitation immediately!"


    In the operating room, rms from the medical equipment began to re. The lead surgeon quickly ordered the medical team to begin lifesaving efforts...


    When Rong Dai regained consciousness, her vision was blurry and the light felt piercingly bright.


    It took her a long time to get her bearings and take in her surroundings.


    The snow-white ceiling was embedded with strange shiny objects, and there was a pungent medicinal smell in the air.


    Where was this ce?


    Could it be that she had been confined in the Cold Pce for so long that her dreams had be this fantastical and disorienting?


    Rong Dai blinked in confusion, full of curiosity.


    Dreaming is wonderful, much better than that Cold Pce where she didn''t have a soul to talk to.


    "Bed 36, take your temperature now! Put this under your armpit and I''ll be back to retrieve it in a bit."


    Rong Dai was curiously examining the ceiling, thinking she was in a dream, when a woman in white clothes suddenly approached her.


    She handed Rong Dai a strange stick and said some iprehensible words.


    At first, Rong Dai was stunned, thinking she must be dreaming. So she asked, "Miss, is this the immortal Peni Mountain? What are those objects on the ceiling called? They''re even more dazzling than gems!"


    The nurse was taken aback, looking at her as if she had seen a ghost. She reached out to feel Rong Dai''s forehead, frowning as she said, "Your temperature is normal! You just had your appendix removed, that''s all. Have you been reading too many novels? Spewing such nonsense? Just rest well for a few days and you''ll be discharged."


    This didn''t feel like a dream!


    Rong Dai''s smile instantly froze on her face. She felt as if the blood in her body had coagted. She could clearly feel every hair on her body standing on end!


    In an instant, cold sweat broke out all over her. Herplexion turned ghastly pale.


    "Are you alright? Is your incision hurting?"


    The nurse had been about to leave but noticed the sudden change in Rong Dai''splexion. She thought it must be post-surgical pain.


    Rong Dai had felt fine earlier, but as soon as the nurse mentioned it, she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her lower right abdomen.


    The pain grew increasingly distinct. Cold sweat poured from her as enormous waves crashed in her heart!


    Terror, anxiety, confusion - they engulfed her bit by bit. Her face grew paler and paler!


    Seeing this, the nurse was also frightened. She hurriedly pressed the call button to notify the surgeon.


    "Try to stay calm, the doctor will be here any minute..."


    Before the nurse could finish, Rong Dai suddenly sat bolt upright and grabbed the nurse''s wrist, her voice quavering with agitation, "How dare you! What are you trying to do?!"


    The doctor and nurse were badly startled. Patients nowadays were bing more entric.


    Who did she think she was? Calling it audacious!


    As if this was still the Qing Dynasty!


    Seeing that Rong Dai was just extremely pale and otherwise lucid, the doctor withdrew his stethoscope.


    He shot her an exasperated look and said to the nurse, "The anesthesia must be wearing off and her incision probably hurts a bit. There''s no major issue as long as there''s no infection or fever - no need to make a fuss."


    The nurse nodded. Recalling Rong Dai''s close brush with death in the OR, the surgeon added worriedly, "She''s a special case. Keep an extra close eye on her, probably some postoperative side effects."


    The nurse nodded. Looking at Rong Dai who seemed scared out of her wits, after the doctor left, she poured Rong Dai a cup of warm water.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were full of fright and wariness. The nurse didn''t know whether tough or cry, "What are you thinking? I''m not going to poison you, this is a hospital."


    After much hesitation, Rong Dai''s throat felt parched so she epted the cup. Somewhat defiantly, she said, "As if you''d dare."


    Nurse: "..."


    She had just said it casually, yet Rong Dai took it seriously?


    "Are you feeling any better?"


    Seeing that Rong Dai had finished the water, the nurse gently asked.


    Rong Dai was still rather stunned, overwhelmed by the tremendous shock. She still hadn''t figured out what was going on.


    She was the Empress! The Emperor had not deposed her, she had voluntarily secluded herself in the Cold Pce.


    Yet this ce didn''t look anything like the pce. And her hands, they were far more delicate and clearly not hers.


    Rong Dai''s mind was full of questions, but she didn''t know which one to ask first.


    "Why don''t I contact your family? My shift isn''t over yet, it''d be better if a family member came to apany you."


    ncing at the time, seeing that Rong Dai still looked unwell, the nurse reminded her.


    "Family?"


    Rong Dai was perplexed, unable tomunicate with the nurse at all.


    "Would you mind if I helped you call them using your phone?"


    Seeing the tremendous fright Rong Dai was in, the nurse''s gaze fell upon the bag on the nightstand.


    Rong Dai froze for a second, then nodded.


    The nurse sighed. She took out a cell phone from Rong Dai''s bag and swiped at it a few times, looking at Rong Dai in surprise, "You don''t even have a password on your phone?"


    Rong Dai''s mind was still nk. She couldn''t focus on what the nurse was saying at all.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s condition, the nurse went ahead and dialed a number on her behalf.


    Huo Shao Ting was going through some documents when the rarely seen number shed on his personal cell. He froze briefly before picking up.


    "Hello, are you Miss Rong Dai''s family member?"


    "Yes." After a few seconds of silence, Huo Shao Ting answered coldly.


    Family member? They were merely contractual spouses.


    "It''s like this - Miss Rong had surgery today at the hospital. She seems to have been badly frightened. Could you, as a family member, pleasee take a look? We''re short staffed at the hospital right now."


    The nurse gingerly made the request. Rong Dai sat motionless on the bed, still dazed and confused.


    "Alright, which hospital and room number?"


    Huo Shao Ting paused in his document signing, a slight frown on his brows. Again he was silent for a few seconds before agreeing.


    After the nurse gave him the location, he directly hung up.


    "Miss Rong, your family will be here soon. If you feel any difort, please press the call button and I''lle immediately."


    The nurse put down the phone and gently reassured her.


    Only then did Rong Dai regain a bit of rity. She stared at the nurse full of bewilderment and asked, "What year and month is this now? What era? Who reigns as Emperor?"


    This was too frightening, too inconceivable!


    How could she have transformed into this after just a nap?

 Chapter 2: She became a Rich Wife

    <h4>Chapter 2</h4>


    The nurse was stunned for a moment, looking at Rong Dai in astonishment. Could this series of interrogative sentences be any more ssical?


    The nurseughed in spite of herself: "It seems you''ve been watching too many time travel dramas. It''s July 17, 2018 right now, 3:27pm Beijing time. We are still the prosperous, democratic sessors ofmunism!"


    "What?" Rong Dai was stunned!


    2018! She remembered that the Upstream Kingdom was founded in 903 AD, and she was enthroned as Empress in 973 AD after entering the pce for thirty years...


    A whole thousand years!


    Just now, the girl had used the word "time travel", and although she didn''t really understand it, she could still grasp some meaning.


    She had be someone from a thousand years in the future!


    This, this, this...this was simply earth-shattering and unheard of!


    Huge waves churned in Rong Dai''s heart, and her head buzzed loudly.


    But after all, she had been Empress for thirty years, and was raised in a prestigious family. She knew very well how outrageous and sensational such matters were.


    If she was careless, she would be an outlier.


    She quickly put on a bright smile and looked at the nurse: "Oh...I''m a bit confused, I thought I was reading a book."


    The nurse didn''t notice anything amiss either, and after instructing her on a few things, left the ward.


    "How strange, how strange...how did I end up here?"


    This was a private ward. After the nurse left, Rong Dai finally breathed a sigh of relief, staring at her own hands, feeling terrified and uneasy.


    The wound below her abdomen ached slightly, and she had no choice but to lie down and think.


    "Ow--"


    As soon as shey down, her head felt a sharp, stabbing pain. She couldn''t help but gasp.


    She guessed it was because she had been too tense earlier, and now that she had rxed, the original owner''s massive amount of memories flooded into her mind.


    Although fragmented, it was enough to help her understand this world a thousand yearster.


    Rong Dai''s face was full of shock after absorbing it all, and the unease in her heart lessened slightly.


    "How strange, how strange...why did I end up here?"


    This was a contracted marriage, not much different from her marriage to the Emperor - just empty formality. "Fate, oh fate!"


    Two hourster, she had calmed down. After all, she had been Empress for thirty years. Although the situation was shocking to hear about, it was not perilous.


    As Rong Dai recalled her past life and the original owner''s memories, she drifted off to sleep in a daze.


    "When will she wake up?"


    In her sleepy haze, she heard someone speaking. The voice was very pleasant, but full of endless coldness.


    She slowly opened her eyes to see three people standing in the ward.


    Two women and one man. One was the nurse from before, one was a woman with a gentle and elegant appearance who was smiling at her.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly. As a royal consort who had spent thirty years in the pce, she had long trained a discerning eye for the women in the harem, to know human from ghost!


    This woman...had evil intent!


    The remaining man was tall and heroic, handsome, just a little cold.


    Butpared to the Emperor, his looks were not enough to attract her.


    She remembered from the original owner''s memories that this man was her absent husband in this life, Huo Shaoting, CEO of the Huo Group.


    "I''m sorry to trouble you toe over, please ept my apologies."


    Noticing Huo Shaoting''s icy gaze, she had no choice but to force herself to say something.


    "Sister Rong, why didn''t you tell me and Shaoting when you got sick? Fortunately you''re alright... "


    Before Wen Shn could finish speaking, Rong Dai''s jet ck eyes red sharply at the other, emanating an overwhelming sense of pressure.


    "When I''m speaking to my husband, what business does a petty concubine have interrupting? Do you not understand propriety?"


    Wen Shn''s face instantly turned red, and she unconsciously clenched her fists!


    Petty concubine!


    How dare she mock and ridicule her so!


    But she would not lose herposure in front of Huo Shaoting. Squeezing her seductive peach blossom eyes, two lines of clear tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "Shaoting, there are still things to do at thepany, so I''ll go first. You...take good care of Sister Rong."


    With that, she really left, leaving a very aggrieved back view for Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai: "???"


    How dare a petty concubine be so brazen? And still dare to show attitude?


    The next second, she realized her mistake!


    This was a favored concubine! She should not have berated her so in front of her husband. If she wanted to deal with her, it should be done secretly!


    Blunder! A blunder!


    She was really muddled!


    Rong Dai felt endless regret. Seeing Huo Shaoting''s gloomy expression, she tried her best to maintain the propriety and grace befitting the principal wife.


    "I won''t do it again next time. Today...I''m not feeling well and my mind is a little fuzzy."


    Huo Shaoting nced at her coldly, then went to the window to make a phone call. Rong Dai strained to listen.


    "The steward wille to pick you upter. Don''t disturb me over such things again next time. Also, don''t humiliate her like that anymore. Otherwise, you''ll have to bear the consequences."


    Before Rong Dai could react, the deafening sound of the door mming shocked her heart into wild pounding. The ward becamepletely silent again.


    "Good fortune neveres alone, misfortune does not strike alone. s...this inescapable fate, no matter where I go."


    Rong Dai sighed. She had not expected that even a thousand yearster as the principal wife, she would still have to contend with petty concubines and their schemes. It really was vexing.


    "Mistress, why didn''t you let the family know when you were getting surgery? If Old Madam found out, she would have been so worried!"


    Not long after the room had quieted down, the door opened again and the steward Li Shu and maid Wang Ma entered.


    As soon as she came in, Wang Ma couldn''t help but express her concern. Rong Dai did not know what to say, so she let them arrange to recuperate back at the old Huo residence.


    "Mistress, Old Madam and Madam won''t be back for a few more days. Please don''t worry and focus on recovering, I will serve you well."


    Once at the Huo residence, Wang Ma supported her to the marital chambers she shared with Huo Shaoting.


    "Thank you for your trouble." She nodded, leaning against the soft bed. It felt much morefortable than the one at the hospital.


    "Then Mistress should rest first." Wang Ma tucked her into bed.


    Leaning against the headboard, Rong Dai looked around the room. Most of the things were still decorated for the wedding celebration, but all brand new.


    "Favored concubines eclipse the wife..." She thought of Huo Shaoting''s icy eyes and sighed lightly.


    "Oh well, I''ll have to make do with the circumstances."


    Feeling ufortable leaning on her wound, she mumbled to herself and nestled under the quilt.


    She had to think carefully about how to survive here.


    Her husband did not dote on her, her mother-inw did not like her, the only consoling thing was the old grandmother who cared for her.


    At least the situation was notpletely disastrous.


    Lying in bed staring at the ceiling lost in thought, Rong Dai let out a long sigh and closed her eyes, falling into deep sleep.

 Chapter 3: Survival Crisis

    <h4>Chapter 3</h4>


    That night Rong Dai slept very soundly. She had a long, long dream where she bid farewell to her thirty years as queen and looked forward to the future of this new world.


    Gurgle--


    Rong Dai was having a sweet dream when her stomach suddenly protested, instantly waking her up from hunger.


    She groggily opened her eyes and was momentarily stunned when she saw the big red room. A few secondster she was fully awake!


    She looked around the room, recalling yesterday''s events in her mind, her heart pounding excitedly again!


    This was all real! It couldn''t be more real!


    She clutched her chest, filled with mixed emotions of sadness and joy.


    For thest thirty years, she had lived in the cold pce for ten years!


    From the moment she entered the cold pce, the only thing she waited for was death.


    But now, she had died and lived again.


    She had wanted to leave that mercilessly dark pce long ago, but she was powerless.


    Now she had left, but the road ahead was still filled with confusion and obscurity.


    "It''s nothing. You are from a prestigious family, there is nothing that can get you down!"


    She murmured to herself, bidding farewell to her past self and weing her new life ahead.


    Withplicated feelings, Rong Dai sat on the bed for a long time. Not that she didn''t want to get up.


    Rather, she didn''t know where to start.


    Everything was unknown and novel to her.


    She could convince herself to ept it, but with only the original host''s fragmented memories, she really didn''t know what to do.


    "s, the road ahead will be arduous..."


    Rong Dai sighed softly, eventually defeated by hunger, and could only crawl out of bed to wash up.


    This was their bridal chamber, with a private bathroom. All the toiletries were brand new.


    "Ah! Are you human or ghost?!"


    As soon as Rong Dai walked in, she saw someone pop up in front and screamed, almost falling to the ground.


    After waiting for a while without anyone answering her, she stared at the mirror and realized the person inside looked exactly like her.


    She bravely walked over and reached out to touch it.


    Rong Dai: "!?"


    It turned out to be a mirror wall!


    She pinched her own face and the person inside made the same action.


    "So it''s a bronze mirror. It looks so real."


    Rong Dai heaved a long sigh of relief,pletely letting down her guard.


    Seeing the toothbrush, toothpaste and tooth mug on the washbasin, she was instantly stumped. How do you use these things?


    She felt a big headacheing. The original host''s memories didn''t exin in detail how to use these things!


    Rong Dai despaired, she could only fiddle with them one by one. She "struggled" in the bathroom all morning.


    "Auntie Wang, go check on the mistress. She hasn''t made any noise all morning, I hope she didn''t get a fever right after the surgery."


    Steward Li Shu looked at the clock in the living room. It was already noon, but he still hadn''t seen Rong Daie down, inevitably a little worried.


    Auntie Wang didn''t say much, just wiped her hands and went to knock on Rong Dai''s door.


    "Who is it?!"


    Hearing the knock, Rong Dai was so startled she almost became neurotic. She was still holding bubbles in her mouth and hurriedly went to open the door.


    "Mistress, you..." Wang Ma saw her soaked from head to toe, looking wretched, as if she had just been in a fight. She was stunned on the spot.


    Rong Dai awkwardly swallowed and forced out a smile. "I...just fell down identally just now."


    She would never admit she got scared and fell on the ground when she saw water spurting out of the faucet.


    Wang Ma stared nkly at her. "Mistress, you... ate toothpaste?"


    Rong Dai was taken aback, and asked puzzledly, "This...can''t be eaten? It''s a little sweet, a little cool, the taste seems...not bad!"


    Wang Ma''s face was as if she had seen a ghost. She hurriedly reached out to check Rong Dai''s forehead, muttering.


    "Oh no, oh no... Steward Li!"


    Wang Ma was so frightened her face turned pale. She ttered downstairs, hoarsely yelling for Li Shu.


    Rong Dai: "???"


    What did she say wrong?


    "What''s wrong? Isn''t the mistress feeling well?" Li Shu was startled by Wang Ma''smotion.


    Wang Ma was anxious, her face pale. "No, it''s... oh my! The mistress is not right in the head! She just ate toothpaste and asked me if toothpaste is edible!"


    "I''ll contact the doctor toe over immediately!" Li Shu''s expression changed and he hurried to make a phone call.


    Upstairs, Rong Dai frowned and stared nkly.


    It seemed she had done something terrible!


    "Pfft��"


    Just as Rong Dai was lost in thought, she heard someone chuckling.


    She looked in the direction of the voice and saw a woman in her early twenties.


    Rong Dai frowned, trying hard to find information about this woman from her memories.


    Huo Mei Shu, Huo Shao Ting''s younger sister.


    That was her sister-inw!


    "Rong Dai, are you an idiot? Scaring Wang Ma like that in broad daylight."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her with contempt and disdain, obviously looking down on her.


    Rong Dai was taken aback. She really didn''t know this stuff wasn''t edible. She thought it was some kind of pastry.


    She looked at Huo Mei Shu a little embarrassed. "Um..."


    She had wanted to ask Huo Mei Shu how to use these things. She couldn''t be like an idiot, if she didn''t even know how to use basic things, her ws would be too obvious!


    But just as she was about to speak, she suddenly remembered the saying: the hearts of others are different.


    Her soul was from over a thousand years ago. If others knew about this, wouldn''t she be taken as a monster and sacrificed!


    No! She absolutely could not say anything!


    Rong Dai kept shaking her head as she thought,pletely oblivious to Huo Mei Shu''s disgusted and idiotic gaze.


    "Truly insane!"


    After Huo Mei Shu went downstairs, Rong Dai heaved a huge sigh of relief and hurriedly closed the door, clutching her chest and gasping for air.


    "No, I have to figure something out!"


    Rong Dai was extremely anxious, she never imagined the changes after a thousand years would be so huge that she had be almost useless here!


    Cold sweat broke out on her forehead. This was even scarier than when she moved to the cold pce back then!


    "That''s it!"


    She suddenly remembered the talking gadget that the woman in white took out of her bag yesterday. That might be able to solve her burning dilemma!


    In a panic she fumbled out her phone, but Rong Dai was also dumbfounded. She didn''t know how to use this either!


    For the first time, Rong Dai felt what it was like to be inplete despair!


    "Heaven wants to destroy me!"


    Rong Dai was so anxious she almost cried. She never imagined that she, an empress, would be reduced to this.


    Just a moment ago she had confidently said she would live this life well, but now she was facing extinction.


    Rong Dai wanted to cry but no tears came out.


    "Voice assistant at your service. Master, how may I assist you? Little V can answer anything!"


    "W-What are you?!"


    Rong Dai had been holding the phone. When she identally triggered the voice assistant, it gave her a fright but also a glimmer of hope!


    Clutching the phone tightly, Rong Dai nervously organized her thoughts and asked the voice assistant question by question.

 Chapter 4: How can I Get Laid off

    <h4>Chapter 4</h4>


    "Heaven will not destroy me! Thank you!"


    After asking a series of questions, Rong Dai''s heart was emboldened. She hugged her cell phone excitedly, almost crying out of excitement!


    Bang!


    Before she could even feel relieved from her near-death experience, the bedroom door was kicked open, startling her and making her quickly turn her head to look over.


    She saw Huo Shao Ting''s face looking a little gloomy, seemingly still mixed with anger.


    "Hus..."


    No, she couldn''t call him husband! Little v had just said that she should call him dear, right?


    "Dear, you, you''re back?"


    Her calling him dear instantly froze the air.


    Li Shu and Wang Ma looked at each other in dismay behind Huo Shao Ting - what was going on with thedy?


    "Is...is that not right?"


    Noticing the strange atmosphere, Rong Dai grew anxious, forcing out an awkward smile as she hesitantly asked.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her coldly, throwing over a document.


    Seeing the situation going badly, Li Shu and Wang Ma hurriedly signaled for the family doctor to go downstairs with them.


    Neither had expected Huo Shao Ting to suddenly return, and it seemed his rtionship with his wife was even worse.


    "Divorce agreement. I''m giving you three days to consider it. Three dayster I won''t wait for your reply. This marriage is not up to you."


    Huo Shao Ting said coldly. The way he looked at her was full of disgust, as if looking at a filthy bug.


    After he finished speaking he left. Rong Dai nkly sat on the bed, her gaze falling on the document before her.


    Divorce? Does he mean to set me aside as a wife?


    Thinking of the words "set aside", Rong Dai''s expression changed!


    How could she, a queen, possibly be set aside!


    She absolutely wouldn''t allow it!


    It must be because she had said the wrong thing yesterday. That concubine must have whispered in his earst night, otherwise why would he set her aside as a wife?


    "I have to think of a foolproof n..."


    Rong Dai murmured, holding the document as her gaze became extremely determined. She hadn''t expected that after being reborn as a queen she would immediately face such trials.


    "Monogamy? ... Cohabiting with other women is a crime of bigamy? Illegal?"


    Holding her cell phone in bed, Rong Dai felt her worldview had been greatly shocked!


    She instantly forgot her hunger. As she asked her phone assistant questions and gradually learned to search online, it shocked her even more!


    She hadn''t expected such a little thing to know so much!


    For three straight days, Rong Dai ate and drank in her bedroom, not going anywhere without her phone.


    She was a quick learner. Although there were still some things she couldn''t fullyprehend, she had the basics down.


    Fortunately the original owner had been a recluse at the Huo residence, so her strange behavior wasn''t noticed by anyone.


    Seeing her be more normal, Wang Ma also breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Madam, the elder madam and madam areing back today. I''ve made reservations at a restaurant, so you need to get ready early."


    Seeing time slipping away, Wang Ma couldn''t help but go upstairs to remind Rong Dai.


    "I know, Wang Ma."


    Rong Dai replied briskly. She was in an exceptionally good mood.


    She was much more skilled at washing up this time. But when she looked in the wardrobe, she saw how pitifully few clothes she had, all in somber colors.


    Although Rong Dai had difficulty epting the revealing clothes, she had no choice. In the end she picked a high-slit cheongsam that she could barely stand looking at.


    This cheongsam was originally meant for the original owner to wear when she returned home, but her only family had been her mother. With her mother dead, she had no home.


    So this cheongsam had never been worn before. Wearing it today was appropriate for the asion.


    "This is too tight..."


    Rong Dai''s face turned red from holding in her breath as she changed into the undergarments. Why couldn''t she wear a belly wrap? Who invented this torture device trying to suffocate people?


    After much difficulty getting dressed, Rong Dai searched for essories for half a day, only finding a set of emerald green jade bangles, ne and earrings.


    "Although the quality isn''t the best, it''s still passable."


    Rong Dai muttered to herself. As a queen she had seen countless treasures, so she was quite discerning.


    After getting the essories ready, she put up her own hair in a simple style. Together with her outfit, she looked dignified yet elegant.


    "Madam, this..."


    "Wang Ma, is this outfit alright?"


    When Rong Dai came downstairs, Wang Ma was stunned by her appearance, her gaze falling on the jade jewelry in surprise.


    Weren''t these heirlooms that Madam had always treasured?


    So the elder madam had given them to the young madam!


    "Yes, young madam looks beautiful. Young people should wear brighter colors."


    Wang Ma nodded with a smile. She had wanted to say something, but seeing Rong Dai so happy, she didn''t have the heart to ruin her mood.


    Sitting in the car, Rong Dai looked at the towering high-rises outside the window with curiosity, while maintaining a calm and elegant demeanor.


    Arriving at the hotel, she immediately caught sight of the hale and hearty elder madam Huo.


    She quietly took a deep breath, a smile appearing on her face as she sweetly called out, "Grandmother..."


    Oh no!


    She should have called her Granny! Why did she have to blurt this out at such a time!


    Although calling her Grandmother wasn''t too inappropriate, her loud voice had made her stand out prominently.


    Mrs. Huo, who had been talking to Huo Mei Shu, looked disgusted. Seeing the jade jewelry Rong Dai was wearing, her expression immediately darkened.


    "How could Mother give that to her?!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression also changed.


    "Little Rong Rong,e here!" The elder madam didn''t care about those things. She immediately smiled and waved at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai wished she could find a hole to crawl into. Hurrying over, she said, "Granny."


    "Let me see if you''ve gotten a little fatter! Hmm, the bangles look so nice on you, Little Rong Rong! Young people should wear brighter colors."


    The elder madam also noticed the jewelry she was wearing, her smile gentle and doting.


    "Mrs. Huo."


    Before Rong Dai could speak, Wen Shi Lan''s soft, tender voice sounded from behind her.


    Rong Dai''s expression instantly became stern, an aura of authority emanating from her inside out.


    Even a lowly concubine dared to provoke her?


    Even if the marriage system was different here, she, Rong Dai, would not meekly agree to a divorce!


    Wanting to step over her head so quickly to take her ce, this Wen Shi Lan was too impatient!


    She had just arrived here and would starve on the streets if divorced, with no family to turn to.


    So she hade up with a bnced approach.


    "Don''t worry Granny, I''ll handle it."


    Smiling, she said to the elder madam before turning, her gaze piercing as itnded on Wen Shi Lan. Of course, Huo Shao Ting was standing by thetter''s side.


    The elder madam was taken aback before smiling and watching the drama unfold.


    "Dear, let''s go talk. Miss Wen, you shoulde too."


    She was calm and unruffled, without any anger, but hermanding presence attracted attention.


    Wen Shi Lan had originally wanted to vent her frustration from being humiliated by Rong Dai at the hospital that day, but being stared at by Rong Dai now, she felt a chill down her spine.


    Rong Dai noticed the panic in her eyes and sighed inwardly: too amateurish to try and take her on.


    Without waiting for Huo Shao Ting''s reply, she walked off ahead of them.


    She dared to humiliate even the emperor, so why would she fear an upstart?

 Chapter 5: Make the Right Gesture

    <h4>Chapter 5</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her straight back and frowned before walking over.


    Wen Shi Lan was fuming inside and gritted her teeth as she followed him.


    Rong Dai stood by the window, looking at the bustling world below the hotel, things she had never seen before and found very novel.


    "Today is the third day. Do you want to choose yourself or should I announce it?"


    When Huo Shao Ting was still five or six steps away from her, he stopped, frowning at her as if looking at something very disgusting.


    His tone was cold and hard,pletely devoid of warmth, not even trying to conceal the disgust in his eyes.


    Rong Dai sighed inwardly, life as a woman from the future really wasn''t easy!


    But she couldn''t really me Huo Shao Ting for this. After all, these things were brought upon herself by the original owner.


    Hmm, the new word she had just learned was quite apt.


    During their shotgun wedding, although it was forced, Huo Shao Ting had treated the original owner decently. But the original owner had always acted lukewarm towards Huo Shao Ting, barely humoring or paying him any attention.


    After so many attempts at warmth met cold indifference, who would still be willing to keep up pleasantries?


    But that wasn''t even the worst of it. At least she still had a chance to change things.


    As these thoughts shed through her mind, she took a deep breath inwardly.


    Her face revealed a proper and demure smile as her gaze fell upon Wen Shi Lan. Her tone was very gentle and full of sincere apology, "First of all, I want to apologize to Miss Wen for my reckless words that day. I wasn''t thinking clearly after my recent surgery and hurt Miss Wen with malicious words. I''m very sorry."


    Her apology was gentle and sincere without the slightest reluctance.


    Wen Shi Lan was taken aback, instinctively wary. What was Rong Dai nning?


    Even Huo Shao Ting couldn''t figure out her motives. He found it odd that this was the first time she had spoken so clearly and coherently, and also the most he had ever heard her say.


    "Miss Wen, do you ept my apology?"


    She looked at Wen Shi Lan with a smiling expression. She had messed up that day, she was too reckless!


    This woman was a pampered concubine. Scolding her in front of Huo Shao Ting was practically asking for death!


    Although it was supposed to be monogamy, it wasmon knowledge that the rich and powerful had mistresses everywhere, an open secret.


    As long as they didn��t threaten her position as the main wife, even if concubines lined up out the door, she wouldn��t feel threatened.


    To her, these were just insignificant concubines, people who couldn��t even have a ce at formal family banquets, let alone be seen in public. Why should she care?


    Back when she was in the imperial pce, the Emperor had over twenty ranked imperial consorts alone in his harem!


    If she had fretted over every single one, she would have worried herself to death a hundred times over!


    Offending Huo Shao Ting over a mere concubine and smashing the rice bowl that was currently keeping her alive, that would be an unprofitable deal! Too foolish!


    Moreover, the tricks of this concubine were nothing to her. Having navigated the treacherous imperial harem for decades, could she still not handle the likes of her?


    Rong Dai quickly psyched herself up, the smile on her face sincere enough to move heaven and earth. But in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes, it seemed somewhat fake.


    "Lady Rong, there''s no need to apologize. I didn''t take what happened that day to heart. I know you were unwell then and..."


    "That''s good then. Since Miss Wen has epted my apology, may I ask you to wait at the side for a moment? I have some things I wish to say to my husband."


    She deliberately emphasized the word "husband".


    Wen Shi Lan''s face instantly paled. She couldn''t help but clench her fists. This vile woman was deliberately provoking her again!


    But she also knew Rong Dai''s words were reasonable. Her eyes flickered pleadingly at Huo Shao Ting.


    "Go and wait over there for me," Huo Shao Ting understood her hint and responded coldly, one hand slipping into his pocket as his chiseled features hardened.


    Although reluctant, Wen Shi Lan had no choice but to leave.


    Meanwhile, Rong Dai maintained her gentle smile. After Wen Shi Lan was out of earshot, she took the initiative to speak first.


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting with bright, determined eyes, "I know you''re upset, but this was grandmother''s wish. We''ve barely been married and if we announce a divorce so soon, I fear grandmother may not be able to take it."


    Her smile faded as she tilted her head, gaze worried as she nced at Huo Old Madam sitting in the distance.


    "You don''t want grandmother hurt either, do you? Can you give me a year? I''m dependent on you for my livelihood right now. If I leave the Huo family, I may not even survive. So this year, I will look for a job. After all, you are also a victim in this matter, I shouldn''t keep using your money."


    Her voice was gentle without the slightest self-deprecation, like a well-breddy.


    "I know you have feelings for Miss Wen. I was reckless before. I apologize for that here. This year, I will not interfere with your rtionship with Miss Wen. However, can the divorce agreement wait until a yearter? If you don''t believe me, you can draft an agreement for me to sign first."


    Rong Dai lowered her stance but did not seem servile at all.


    Grandmother was Huo Shao Ting''s weakness. If not for that, Huo Shao Ting would not have agreed to marry the original owner on Grandmother''s matchmaking in the first ce.


    Therefore, when negotiating terms with Huo Shao Ting, she had to bring up Grandmother.


    Secondly, she needed to exin her plight.


    No money, no job, dependent on her husband''s family for survival.


    This was her current "miserable" life.


    Whether in her past or present life, Rong Dai believed in one saying: a woman must have money in her purse.


    No one in this world could be relied upon. The only dependable things were herself and money.


    Although money couldn''t solve everything, without it, nothing could be solved.


    Like right now, she was clearly despised by her husband who even harbored thoughts of divorcing her.


    Yet she could not readily agree because she had no money.


    Having just arrived in this unfamiliar world, leaving the Huo family, she estimated she would be back in the cold pce within two days.


    Finally, she had to lower her stance because she was asking a favor.


    Although unwilling, given her current circumstances, she could not put on airs. When she had first be Empress, had she not lowered herself to seek aid too?


    Asking favors wasn''t shameful, but one must do it with the right attitude.


    She believed that as long as Huo Shao Ting wasn''t an unreasonably violent man, he would have no grounds to reject her suggestion.


    After all, prestigious households cared about face. Especially a top household in the capital like the Huos. Divorcing right after marriage would be a disgrace.

 Chapter 6: We鈥檙e Fine

    <h4>Chapter 6</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her, his deep eyes full of confusion.


    What exactly was this woman trying to do?


    They had been married for so long, yet she had barely said a word to him on her own initiative.


    She gave him the divorce agreement but was unwilling to sign it, and now she came to apologize and was able to articte so much reason and logic. Was this woman having her appendix or her brain repaired?


    Rong Dai confidently waited for his answer, but after waiting for a long time, Huo Shao Ting still hadn''t spoken. Instead, he just kept staring at her intently.


    Her heart couldn''t help but beat faster. Could it be that her method wasn''t working?


    She had already lowered her stance with this strategy of using softness to ovee hardness.


    As the head of the Huo family, Huo Shao Ting shouldn''t disregard the Huo family''s reputation. Could her attitude have not been sincere enough?


    Rong Dai''s mind spun like a kaleidoscope, with hundreds of little question marks intertwining.


    Finally, she concluded that her attitude had not been sincere enough.


    "It''s just one year''s time. You can tell me how to cooperate with you however you want. I will definitely keep secret about you and Wen Xiaojie. If there are areas where you need my help, I will certainly not decline to assist. Or you can have someone write an agreement now, and I can sign it for you immediately."


    Rong Dai blinked her dark eyes at him, her attitude extremely sincere. She was just short of taking out her heart for him to see.


    This was the first time Huo Shao Ting had seen her reveal such spirited eyes. Something in his heart suddenly felt severed, an indescribable strange feeling.


    He didn''t insist on getting a divorce. He had focused on his career all his life, and marriage was not an absolute necessity to him.


    It was just that since Grandmother had made the match, he had gone along to please the elderly woman.


    What he hadn''t expected was that his new wife''s attitude toward him was so cold it made one gasp. In all this time, the number of conversations between them could be counted on one hand.


    They didn''t even spend their wedding night together, already sleeping in separate rooms.


    In his mindset, since he had married this woman, he would definitely see it through to the end and give her due respect, just as his parents had, treating each other with courtesy and spending a lifetime together, even if there was no passion.


    But Rong Dai after the wedding made him feel at one point as if he had married a block of wood.


    At least when you hugged a block of wood there was some warmth, but this woman was as cold as an unmelting iceberg.


    He disliked forcing people. Since she was unwilling, he wouldn''t keep imprisoning her in the Huo family either.


    As for him and Wen Shi Lan, that was even more impossible. She was just the daughter of his uncle''s friend. He was fulfilling the entrusted duty, doing his best to take care of her, that was all.


    Rong Dai didn''t know what he was thinking. When Wen Shi Lan looked at Huo Shao Ting her eyes shone, she wasn''t blind.


    Plus, adding in what she had seen with her own eyes when they cooperated at the hospital those times, she believed the one Huo Shao Ting admired was Wen Shi Lan.


    And the original owner''s presence was blocking the other''s true love, no wonder she was hated.


    "...Or you can feel free to make any requests. I will definitely do what I can."


    Seeing him remain silent for a long time, Rong Dai''s heart thumped anxiously.


    She had thought dealing with this younger generation would be easy, she hadn''t expected he would be so hard to converse with.


    If this were the Emperor, with her speaking to this extent, he basically would have responded with a sentence or two already. But this man didn''t give her even half a word.


    This man was exceptionally difficult to get along with.


    Rong Dai made a judgment in her heart, even mentally marking Huo Shao Ting''s name in red.


    "Fine, I''ll give you one year''s time." Huo Shao Ting''s voice was no longer as icy as before, but it wasn''t gentle either.


    Having said that, he turned his head and left.


    Rong Dai stood stunned for a moment before reacting that he had agreed.


    "Phew - finally I can rx."


    She gently covered her chest and let out a long sigh of relief. Then she tidied her emotions and walked over toward Grandma Huo.


    "Grandma," her voice was soft and tender, sounding like she was coquetting when addressing someone this gently.


    "Good child, what did you two say? Did he bully you? When we get back, Grandma will teach that rotten boy a lesson!"


    Seeing here over, Madam Huo immediately beamed, grasping her hand and caressing it. Her eyes red at Huo Shao Ting''s retreating figure, looking at Rong Dai dotingly.


    Rong Dai smiled and sat down on one side, also sping the elderly woman''s hands, speaking gently, "Grandma, don''t worry. Shao Ting treats me very well. Miss Wen has to keep following Shao Ting because ofpany matters only. Don''t overthink it, Grandma, we are doing very well."


    "You''re the only one who will cover for that rascal. I know him well!" Madam Huo red at her pretentiously, but her gaze looking at Rong Dai was full of delight and satisfaction.


    "Grandma!"


    Just as she was speaking with the old woman, Huo Mei Shu''s voice rang out, carrying traces of anger.


    Rong Dai''s heart leaped wildly, she almost forgot about this auntie.


    "Mei Shu, youe sit by Grandma too!" Madam Huo called out vigorously. Looking at Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu, her eyes were full of doting.


    Although Huo Mei Shu sat down, the way she looked at Rong Dai was very unfriendly.


    Rong Dai wondered in her heart, she had been staying in her room these past few days, she didn''t remember ever offending this auntie.


    Could the original owner really be so detestable that she aroused resentment wherever she went?


    "Grandma! You''re too partial! My mother begged you for this jewelry set so many times! It''s very important to her. How could you give it to her?!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s face was ugly as she pointed to the jade jewelry around Rong Dai''s neck usingly.


    Only then did Rong Dai react, quickly ncing toward Madam Huo. Sure enough, Madam Huo''s face was ck.


    Ah, why was she so unlucky?


    But there was no helping it since her life was in their hands. She had to be prudent and careful.


    Before the old woman could speak, she quickly smiled and said, "Mei Shu, you misunderstood Grandma. This jewelry set originally belonged to Mother. I had never seen such fine jewelry before, so I borrowed it from Mother to experience and broaden my horizons. After the banquet ends, I will return the jewelry to Mother, I guarantee I won''t damage it."


    Seeing her speaking so obediently and politely, Huo Mei Shu looked as if she had seen a ghost, staring at her for a long time.


    "Grandma, isn''t that right?"


    Seeing her give no reply, Rong Dai hurriedly blinked at the old woman.


    The old woman had seen a lot in her lifetime. Of course she understood the meaning in Rong Dai''s gaze.


    She sighed lightly, patting Rong Dai''s hand. Her eyes looked toward Huo Mei Shu, "This jewelry originally belonged to her. If you''re so afraid your junior will damage it, then don''t lend it out."


    Huo Mei Shu''s face froze for a moment as she stared at Rong Dai dubiously, "Grandma..."


    "It''s fine, Grandma. This jewelry is valuable and I was also afraid of damaging it. It''s better if I take it off first. Keeping Grandmapany at the mealter, I''ll also be able to eat to my heart''s content."


    Rong Dai quickly smoothed things over. Since she had to rely on others'' shelter, she had to be tactful in handling matters.


    Although she had Old Madam as a backer, Old Madam was not an omnipotent lifesaver. She couldn''t neglect this mother-inw either.

 Chapter 7: Face does not Exist.

    <h4>Chapter 7</h4>


    Rong Dai finished speaking and got up to take off the jewelry, and also asked the hotel staff for a velvet box to arrange it nicely.


    When she came out of the room, she didn��t see Huo Shao Ting who had juste out of the bathroom, but Huo Shao Ting saw her bare neck. His deep phoenix eyes shed, and of course he knew that the jewelry was given to her by Granny.


    Why did she take it off at this time?


    Rong Dai took the jewelry back to the lobby with a gentle smile on her face and said to the olddy, "Granny, let me take the jewelry to Mom first, and I''lle to apany youter."


    "Go ahead," the olddy waved her hand, although she didn''t stop her, but Rong Dai could see that the little olddy was unhappy.


    s, the grievances caused by the original owner still had to be remedied with great care, it was really a karmic bond.


    Rong Dai also sighed in her heart, pondering how to coax the little olddy to be happy when she came back, otherwise she would have appeased one side and the other side would be unhappy again, wouldn''t she have worked in vain?


    "Rong Dai, did you take the wrong medicine today?"


    Huo Mei Shu walked beside her, looking at her doubtfully and inquisitively.


    Rong Dai just smiled and said sincerely, "No, I just...live wisely, happiness is one day, unhappiness is one day, so I want to be happier."


    It was really easy to find excuses from the modern world. These chicken soup texts and inte lingos could easily help her resolve the situation. She would have to read more when she went back.


    Huo Mei Shu was suspicious, but she had no evidence, so she had to keep quiet.


    "Mom," Rong Dai''s smile was slightly restrained, maintaining a proper faint smile, and walked up to Mrs. Huo and called her softly.


    Mrs. Huo was already dissatisfied with her, but with so many people present, she couldn''t get angry either.


    If she had made a scene in public, who knows what the media would say, she would be the evil mother-inw.


    So when Mrs. Huo turned to look at her and saw her bare neck, she was shocked, thinking that she had lost the jewelry.


    "Mom, this is the jewelry I borrowed from you some time ago. The water head is very beautiful. Please take a look to see if there is any damage," Rong Dai said before she could speak.


    Rong Dai''s principle was to take preemptive action.


    She was already at a disadvantage now. If she was still being manipted all the time, how could she live?


    If she wanted to live, she had to speak first. Things like face didn''t exist for her.


    But in front of a nobledy like Mrs. Huo, face was more important than anything else, especially on such an asion, she would not scold her own daughter-inw.


    So she made a quick decision just now to say that the jewelry was hers, which satisfied Mrs. Huo''s vanity and could also give her a good reputation.


    Such a thing had to be done on such an asion. The effect would be different if she took it out when she returned to the old house.


    Although she couldn''t make Mrs. Huo change her view of her immediately, at least she wouldn''t embarrass her too much.


    Sure enough, after she finished speaking, she saw Mrs. Huo''s eyes light up, but because of the asion, she really couldn''t open the box to check it, so she signaled Huo Mei Shu with her eyes.


    Rong Dai saw it very clearly, but her face still had a smile, pretending not to see it.


    Some things should be appropriately "blind" on certain asions.


    This was also one of her experiences after being a concubine in the pce for thirty years in her previous life. If her eyes were bright all the time, she could only die faster.


    Huo Mei Shu of course understood what her mother meant. She took the box from her hand at once, pretending to be dissatisfied and said, "Mom, you are so biased too. Last time when I said I wanted to take a look, you didn''t even let me see it. You actually let sister-inw wear it out. I don''t care. This time I must feast my eyes!"


    After saying that, she opened the box. Seeing the set of jewelry arranged neatly inside, Mrs. Huo showed a smile on her face.


    She looked at Rong Dai in surprise, with doubts in her heart, but she couldn''t ask in this asion.


    "Mom, the water quality of these jadeites is very good. This kind of color is just suitable for your age to wear. The temperament will be more elegant and beautiful. My face is too naive, it��s really inappropriate to wear. I just wanted to open my eyes. Thank you, Mom."


    Rong Dai of course saw Mrs. Huo''s doubts. She said with a chuckle, while also earning face for Mrs. Huo in front of several nobledies.


    There was no harm in ttering words that the other party wanted to hear. She could satisfy the other party''s needs no matter how much she said.


    She didn''t mind this kind of effortless thing at all.


    When Mrs. Huo heard the praise of those nobledies, she was delighted. The smile on her face had be a sunflower.


    "You girl, being open-minded is a good thing too. Another day, you and Mei Shu can go together to pick some youthful and lively ones, Mom will give them to you," said Mrs. Huo happily. After hearing her words, she also understood what was going on.


    At least she was sensible.


    "Thank you, Mom!" Rong Dai pretended to be delighted and responded. Her smile was gentle and polite.


    This was really tiring. In her previous life, she had fought with those women in the deep pce for twenty years before she got bored and moved to the cold pce to find peace and quiet.


    She didn''t expect that in this life, she still couldn''t escape the fate of having to "fight".


    "Mom, I''ll go apany Granny then. You all chat," said Rong Dai.


    "Go ahead. Your granny has been missing you too. Talk to her more," Mrs. Huo nodded, satisfied, and of course would not embarrass her.


    When Rong Dai turned around, she secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Looking at the olddy sitting in front, whose face was not as happy as before, she couldn''t help sighing heavily in her heart.


    Life is not easy!


    "Granny..."


    She called out sweetly and walked quickly to the olddy.


    "Is Granny angry with me?"


    "What do you think?" The olddy nced at her impatiently.


    "If Granny gets angry, then it would be my fault. I know Granny cares about me, but Mei Shu also said just now that the jewelry is very important to Mom. A gentleman does not take what he likes from others! Granny can understand me, right?"


    Rong Dai spoke to the olddy in a coaxing tone. The olddy was a wise person, and of course she could see the intricacies of these family affairs clearly.


    "Forget it, anyway I gave it to you, I can''t control who you want to give it to," the olddy didn''t want to see her in a difficult position.


    "Granny is the best. How about I embroider a handkerchief for Granny when I have time?" Rong Dai immediately followed up when she saw her mood improve.


    Standing far away, Huo Shao Ting saw the whole scene in his eyes. So that was why the woman took off the jewelry?


    He didn''t know why, but when he saw her chatting andughing with the olddy, a strange feeling would always surge up in his heart.


    Seeing her bare neck, and looking at which woman here was not dressed luxuriously and brightly, his eyes darkened for a moment. He put down his ss and turned to go out to make a call to his assistant.


    Since he had promised her a one year period, during the time when she was still his wife, he certainly couldn''t shortchange her on these things.

 Chapter 8: In Good Shape

    <h4>Chapter 8</h4>


    This banquet went especially smoothly because of Rong Dai''s "thoughtfulness", so when Mrs. Huo returned to the old house that night, her face was glowing.


    The Old Madam''s mood was not as high, but Rong Dai managed to coax her into a better mood.


    When she reached the door of her room, she heard the sound of water and her footsteps hesitated for a moment before pushing the door open.


    "Ah!"


    As soon as she opened the door, she saw Huo Shao Ting bare-chested and was so shocked that she immediately covered her eyes and turned around.


    How could he be so uninhibited?


    Although they were husband and wife, they were both clearly aware... yet he was so unconstrained!


    "Are you trying to wake up the whole family?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were cold as he nced at her and his voice was icy as he took a white shirt out of the wardrobe and put it on.


    Rong Dai was frozen stiff. Although she had seen naked men before, the only one she had seen in her previous life was the Emperor.


    The Emperor was not as uninhibited as him, running around naked as he pleased.


    "Quick, put your clothes on." She spoke hurriedly, also a little worried that the Huo family would see her like this and she would have to spend effort exiningter.


    Huo Shao Ting was just about to walk past her with a notebook in hand when he saw that she was still blocking the door without moving. He simply turned around and sat down on the sofa: "It''s not the first time you''ve seen me. Is this how a wife should behave? Or are you ready to sign the divorce papers now?"


    "No!"


    Hearing the four words "divorce papers", Rong Dai reacted as if physiologically and immediately turned around, quickly shut the door, her tone resolute.


    This series of actions was swift and smooth, leaving Huo Shao Ting a little stunned.


    What was with this woman?


    Rong Dai secretly exined to herself in her heart that this was how things were in this modern era, not like the feudal times of her past life.


    It was just a bare torso, what was there to make a big fuss over? There was nothing much remarkable about a man''s body after all. She shouldn''t overreact.


    As she thought this, her gaze swept over Huo Shao Ting''s body twice, her eyes approving: "Not bad physique."


    No one dislikes hearing praise, right? When it came to vanity regarding physique, men were absolutely no less vain than women.


    Having said this, she slipped into the bathroom in a sh.


    Huo Shao Ting was puzzled, ncing down at his own abs.


    With his eight pack abs, this woman could only describe it as "not bad"?


    Rong Dai spent nearly a century in the bathroom, mainly because she was not ready to share a bed with Huo Shao Ting.


    Although she knew nothing would happen between them, having this stranger sleeping beside her was a bit much and she needed time to convince herself.


    "Are you nning to sleep in the bathtub tonight?"


    Huo Shao Ting had already finished working and seeing that she still hadn''t emerged after so long, he couldn''t help but frown and call out to the bathroom.


    This woman had just shown him goodwill this morning. Why the change at night?


    Hmm, women.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was a little displeased. Rong Dai reluctantly emerged from the bathroom, quickly nced at him and saw he was fully dressed.


    "Are you going out?"


    Huo Shao Ting said impatiently, "Should I be sleeping here?"


    Rong Dai realized his displeasure and thought she must have said something wrong. What had she been thinking just now?


    Wen Shi Lan was gentle and refined, his heart''s beloved.


    If not to apany her, was he really going to stay here?


    "I''m sorry, I...took a bit long. Did you have something to say?"


    Knowing Huo Shao Ting would not be staying over, she immediately felt relieved and the proper smile returned to her face.


    Seeing the smile on her face, Huo Shao Ting thought of how hard she tried to please everyone at the banquet this afternoon, and his impatience eased somewhat.


    "There''s an event tomorrow that you need to attend with me. We''ll leave at 11am."


    The man nced at his watch, his handsome face impassive, his tonepletely devoid of warmth.


    Rong Dai quickly said, "Okay."


    This was her duty. She could not anger Huo Shao Ting now, or she would really end up homeless.


    "Oh, can I give you a reminder?" Rong Dai suddenly thought of something and seeing him about to leave, hesitantly asked.


    Huo Shao Ting''s footsteps paused as he nced at her: "Speak."


    "When you are with Miss Wen, be careful... if she gets pregnant, it may be bad for you..."


    Bang!


    Before she could finish speaking, there was an earth-shattering m of the door that left her ears ringing violently.


    Rong Dai looked at the closed door in shock, immediately reflecting that she shouldn''t have meddled.


    After all, a man his age should want a child soon, right? She remembered when she first became Empress, the Emperor already had seven sons and five daughters.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t even have a shadow yet. s, she had interfered with someone''s good deed and was still running her mouth.


    Anyone would be unhappy. She would have to be mindful of her boundaries next time.


    Aftermenting inwardly, Rong Dai got into bed and fought her drowsiness to look up more things online.


    There was so much she had to learn, this one year was very urgent, she couldn''t be negligent at all.


    After mming the door, Huo Shao Ting stood outside with a gloomy expression, his fists clenched white. This woman...


    What exactly was she thinking?


    Huo Shao Ting just felt a little frustrated, dealing with this woman was much more difficult than handlingpany affairs.


    After taking a couple deep breaths, he went to the guest room next door.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to sleep in the next room. She had thought he went to apany Wen Shi Lan. After looking up information until past midnight, she set an rm and fell fast asleep.


    The next morning when she woke up and washed up, she saw Huo Shao Ting already working on hisptop.


    "He really works hard."


    Rong Dai couldn''t help sighing inwardly, thinking he had rushed back after apanying Wen Shi Lanst night and was now keeping up appearances.


    Sensing her gaze, Huo Shao Ting looked up and saw the pity in her eyes.


    Pity???


    This woman was pitying him?


    Before he could ask, Rong Dai had already sat down at the dining table herself and asked if Old Madam Huo and Mrs. Huo were up yet. Finding out the situation, she ate breakfast alone,pletely ignoring Huo Shao Ting.


    "Young Master, have breakfast."


    Wang Ma came out of the kitchen with freshly cooked porridge, saw Rong Dai eating alone and Huo Shao Ting''s somewhat gloomy expression, and hurriedly called out to him.


    Rong Dai was startled and looked up at Huo Shao Ting. So he didn''t even get to eat at Wen Shi Lan''s ce? That was more than just a little pitiful.


    "Wang Ma, let me."


    She quickly got up and served Huo Shao Ting a bowl of porridge. After all, she had ruined his good time, she had to make the right gestures, or her previous efforts would go to waste.


    Seeing that she still had some conscience, Huo Shao Ting''s gloom lightened a little.


    Rong Dai heaved a sigh of relief. This young master of a wealthy family really was as difficult to serve as the Emperor.


    After breakfast, Rong Dai went upstairs to get ready, but found that her clothes were pathetically few. Since they were attending an event, she would need either formal attire or something elegant and appropriate.


    But aside from the cheongsam she wore yesterday, her wardrobe was full of somber colors.


    Although the material of these clothes was decent, someone her age dressing like this would look old-fashioned. Every woman liked to dress themselves young and pretty, she was no different.

 Chapter 9: The End of Having No Money

    <h4>Chapter 9</h4>


    Looking at the wardrobe and thinking it over, she decided to first go downstairs and discuss with Huo Shaoting.


    After all, since this was an event to attend, she had to look elegant and graceful, otherwise it would be better not to go.


    "Shaoting," she steeled herself and called out.


    Previously when she called him "husband", it was because she had not figured out the situation yet, but obviously Huo Shaoting did not like it.


    Here in the Huo family mansion, she could hardly call him "Mr. Huo", right?


    Huo Shaoting looked up at her. Seeing that she was still in her original house clothes, he immediately frowned, "Is this how you''ve been for the past half hour upstairs?"


    Rong Dai sighed deeply in her heart. No money, no money!


    If she had money, why would she put up with this?


    She heaved a long sigh, her eyes somewhat helpless, "My clothes are not suitable for attending events. Or do you think you could find another femalepanion?"


    She was trying to create an opportunity for him and Wen Shn!


    She had done some researchst night, and found that unless under special circumstances, one could bring another femalepanion.


    Huo Shaoting''s face immediately darkened. How oblivious could this woman be?


    Her implication was so obvious, did she think he couldn''t understand?


    Did she actually want him to be with Wen Shn?


    "Young master, the madame''s clothes are indeed unsuitable for attending events. The colors are all too dark," Wang Ma said opportunely as she cleared the dining table, nicely bailing Rong Dai out.


    Huo Shaoting had not paid attention to her wardrobe anyway, and had thought she was deliberately making excuses to brush him off.


    Now with Wang Ma''s exnation, his expression rxed again.


    Seeing his face change as quickly as a Sichuan opera, Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly, suddenly feeling like she was serving an emperor.


    "There''s still time, you can go buy some," Huo Shaoting said indifferently.


    Rong Dai nced at the clock in the living room. There was still an hour before eleven o''clock. Adding the time to get to the venue, would it be enough?


    She certainly did not want to miss this kind of opportunity to see the world. She needed to learn more about this world, and also fulfill her duties as a wife.


    "Is there enough time?" She still could not help asking.


    "You have time to ask this here, you might as well go change and get in the car," the man''s words were icy cold as he got up and left.


    Rong Dai hurried upstairs to change into a barely passable dress, and rushed back down to see the car already parked at the door.


    Sitting next to Huo Shaoting, the man''s clear and cold scent drifted into her nostrils. Such a cold aura made it difficult for ordinary people to get close.


    Generally, men like this had very caustic eyes. She was not being boastful, but her original face was almost identical to her previous life''s face. The features were very three-dimensional and extremely pleasing to the eye, especially her favorite pair of phoenix eyes.


    But in her opinion, Wen Shn was nothing more than a petty bourgeois girl. She could still serve as the matriarch of an ordinary family, but if she was to be the matriarch of such an eminent and distinguished n, she would be far from qualified.


    How could Huo Shaoting be attracted to her?


    "Does it look good?" Huo Shaoting suddenly turned his head and asked her.


    Seeing the man''s erged face so suddenly, Rong Dai was startled and hurriedly sat properly, "It looks quite good. Appreciating beautiful things can delight one''s mood."


    Huo Shaoting frowned.


    So she had looked at him for so long just to delight her mood? He didn''t know he had this kind of effect.


    The two arrived at the most luxurious shopping center in Jingjing. This was Rong Dai''s first time going out like this, and she was very curious about everything around her, with bright twinkling lights in her eyes.


    Seeing her looking as if she had never seen any of this before, Huo Shaoting couldn''t help frowning again, recalling that she seemed to rarely go out when at the Huo residence.


    He turned around, took out his phone and made a call to his assistant. Rong Dai thought he was handling work or coaxing Wen Shn, so she stood far away waiting for him to finish.


    "The event has been postponed to 3pm in the afternoon. You have plenty of time to pick now."


    Huo Shaoting hung up the phone and walked up to her, speaking in a businesslike tone.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, somewhat delighted inside. She had felt regret just now for not being able to take a good look around, and now suddenly there was much more time.


    However...would she have to pay for the clothes herself?


    She didn''t have a penny on her.


    A look of difficulty appeared on her face as she carefully followed Huo Shaoting''s steps, and softly asked, "For the clothes...could I pay you back slowly? Can you please front the money for me today?"


    Seeing her so cautious and hearing her words, Huo Shaoting felt an urge to pry open this woman''s head to see if her brain could still be fixed.


    "Okay," he answered coldly, his face extremely gloomy.


    Rong Dai breathed a sigh of relief in her heart. Although this was truly embarrassing, there was no other way.


    The two then started wandering around the mall. Everything here was high-end brands, and dresses and the like basically had to be custom ordered two to three months in advance.


    Rong Dai looked at several stores in a row. There were suitable ones, but the prices were shockingly expensive!


    She had specifically looked up the mary system of this erapared to her previous life, these prices were not something she could afford.


    But she could not be rude at today''s event either. Rong Dai deeply experienced what it meant to be unable to take a single step without money.


    "Just this one."


    She picked out a light blue cinched waist long dress. The buttons on the cor were very antique, along with the hand-woven waistband, giving it a very ancient style.


    It was wless as a dress for attending events, and could also be worn daily. For someone like her now in dire straits for money, it was very cost-effective.


    Huo Shaoting sat on the sofa, ncing at the long dress she picked. It was indeed very suitable for her.


    "Listen to her," he instructed lightly.


    The salesperson immediately wrapped up the dress. Huo Shaoting went to pay, while Rong Dai looked at the receipt in her hand, feeling like her heart was bleeding.


    A single dress had cost her eighty thousand, without even a ripple to be seen.


    Rong Dai felt the pain. She was bing more and more stingy the poorer she got. Her food, clothing, and supplies when she was in the pce were probably even more astonishing than this.


    "Want to look more?"


    Huo Shaoting saw she was only holding the bag and clutching the receipt tightly as if afraid it would fly away, a flicker of amusement in his eyes.


    "No no no, this one is enough. I rarely go out usually anyway."


    Rong Dai was extremely guarded, hurriedly shaking her head and quickly walking ahead. She didn''t dare look at anything else in the mall.


    Seeing her flee in panic, Huo Shaoting did not point out her thoughts either. He nced at his watch for the time, and took out his phone to make a call.


    He had said that during the time she was still his wife, he would not begrudge any of her costs.


    Rong Dai nearly rushed out of the mall in one breath. In her previous life, her maternal family was prominent, andter she became the princess of a nation, so where would she ever worry about money!


    Today she finally understood why those servants were always so happy when she rewarded them in her previous life, those ingots and nuggets of silver, and those gold beans and leaves.


    Thinking of these, Rong Dai felt distressed. Why didn''t those gold beans and leaves follow her here?!

 Chapter 10: Giving Money to Women

    <h4>Chapter 10</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting came down soon after, and saw that she was holding that bag as if it was some important object. She felt that this woman seemed to havee to life somewhat. She used to be lifeless, and although her face was quite good-looking, there was gloom written all over it. Anyone looking at such a face for long would feel ufortable. Since this woman was willing to change, he had the patience for it.


    "What do you want to eat? There''s still an hour before we have to attend the event."


    The man loomed over her as he asked condescendingly. Rong Dai didn''t really like people talking to her like this. She frowned slightly and moved away some distance to avoid Huo Shao Ting''s shadow.


    She took out her phone to check the time. It wasn''t even twelve yet. Puzzled, she asked him, "Isn''t the event at three in the afternoon?"


    Huo Shao Ting noticed her subtle movement. He pulled out a chair and sat down, his deep gaze sized her up. "The organizers are being unreasonable. Can I control that?"


    Rong Dai was rendered speechless. This did seem to make some sense.


    She turned to look at the luxurious d��cor of the mall. In her mind, she calcted the cost��just one dress here cost eighty thousand yuan, and that was the most basic style. The people who came here were all either rich or noble. She estimated this meal was beyond her means.


    She immediately shook her head, "I won''t eat anything. I had too much in the morning. Let''s just go to the venue?"


    Huo Shao Ting saw the concern shing through her eyes and didn''t know whether to be angry orugh.


    Shopping with him, the CEO of the prestigious Huo Corporation, and she was actually worried about not having enough money?


    He didn''t want to force her either. His eyes coolly nced at her as he got up from the chair. "Then let''s go."


    Rong Dai heaved a sigh of relief and hurried to follow him.


    She had never imagined that she, an empress who had spent thirty years in a harem, who had schemed against countless concubines and even dared to defy the emperor, would lose so much face over a measly few tens of thousands of yuan.


    Sitting in the car, Rong Dai was preupied, feelingplicated emotions. An invisible sense of urgency weighed on her heart.


    She needed to earn money and learn how to make a living, so that a yearter when she really left the Huo family, she wouldn''t end up on the streets. But the amount of change in this modern world was too vast. Everything was new to her. If she wanted to make a living, she would need to observe and consider carefully first.


    Seeing her silent with a worried look on her face again, Huo Shao Ting knitted his brows.


    "What is this ce?" The car had stopped, and Rong Dai looked puzzled at the luxurious and stylish storefronts outside.


    "Don''t you just go to the event after buying clothes?" Huo Shao Ting frowned at her. He felt something was off about her but couldn''t pinpoint what.


    Rong Dai had wanted to say she could change in the restroom when they got to the venue. But Huo Shao Ting continued speaking, "I''lle get you in half an hour."


    With that, he closed the car door and the car sped away, leaving Rong Dai standing dumbly outside the store entrance, inexplicably nervous.


    "Mrs. Huo, this way please." Just as her heart was thumping anxiously, the store manager personally came out to wee her.


    Rong Dai took a deep breath and put on an appropriate smile before following the manager inside.


    Since Huo Shao Ting had brought her to this event, it was to prevent her from embarrassing the Huo family. She would have to hold up her end.


    Huo Shao Ting circled back to the mall where Huo Mei Shu was waiting expectantly.


    "Brother, what are you ying at? I still have sses today. When do I have time to go shopping with you? Who are you buying clothes for?" Huo Mei Shu looked extremely unhappy and puzzled.


    "Come with me to Herm��s'' new productunch. You can pick anything you like." Huo Shao Ting nced at her coolly and started walking ahead.


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up. She hurried to catch up and probed nosily, "It''s not for Wen Shi Lan, is it? Seeing how generous you''re being, I''ll do you this favor. But don''t me me for not warning you��Grandma and Mom won''t allow you to marry her. Also there''s the matter of Rong Dai..."


    Huo Shao Ting halted. Lowering his eyes, he looked at her coldly. "Why would I buy clothes for Wen Shi Lan? Does the Wen familyck money? Do you think I''m the kind of person who casually spends money on women?"


    He really didn''t understand why these two kept thinking there was something between him and Wen Shi Lan.


    "Huh? It''s not for her? Then who...Brother, don''t do anything rash. Although Rong Dai is a bitme, she doesn''t have any ulterior motives. Grandma likes her too. Just yesterday she was sucking up to Mom all evening..."


    Huo Mei Shu was taken aback, looking a little panicked as she hurried to catch up and ask.


    Huo Shao Ting took a deep breath to restrain his irritation. It seemed he would have to call a family meeting to set things straight.


    "The clothes are for your sister-inw, Rong Dai. Is that clear?"


    Huo Mei Shu was stunned again. This was even more wrong!


    Could something she didn''t know about have happened between the two after they got homest night?


    Although she disliked Rong Dai a little, Rong Dai was still better than those women who only had eyes for her brother''s wealth.


    On Rong Dai''s side, after getting ready in the salon, she looked at herself in the mirror and was quite impressed. The makeup techniques in this modern age were actually so amazing.


    But she had no time to admire herself. She carefully protected her dress, afraid of wrinkling or dirtying it, anxiously waiting for Huo Shao Ting.


    When nearly forty minutes had passed with no sign of Huo Shao Ting, she couldn''t help wanting to call him to ask. Just then, she heard the sound of a car engine.


    Seeing the familiar car, she breathed a sigh of relief and hurried over carefully in her dress to get in the car.


    Seeing how she was so carefully protecting her dress, Huo Shao Ting looked a little exasperated. He then handed her a box, "Make do with this for now."


    "What is it?" Rong Dai asked puzzledly. Opening the box, she saw it contained a full set of diamond jewelry.


    She didn''t know much about diamonds, but she understood jewelry. With such workmanship, even with just these simple three pieces, it had to be worth over ten million yuan based on this era''s mary system.


    "I can''t ept this. It''s too valuable. What if I damage it..."


    I can''t afford topensate for it!


    Rong Dai felt miserable inside. No woman disliked beautiful and precious jewelry, especially herself.


    Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed as he looked at her coldly and sharply. "Do you think I have abundant free time every day? From this morning until now, how much time have you wasted? This is a must for attending events, it''s not a gift for you."


    He had overestimated this woman. Her nature hadn''t changed one bit!


    Seeing him get angry, Rong Dai felt somewhat intimidated. After hesitating for a moment, she carefully and cautiously put on the bracelet, earrings and ne from the box.


    "Could you help me with this?" Rong Dai held the ne, feeling a little nervous and cautious as she asked him.


    After all, this was her lifeline. If she offended him, she would suffer, so she had to be extra careful protecting this jewelry.

 Chapter 11: Her Bat Mitzvah

    <h4>Chapter 11</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting was frustrated. In his over thirty years of traversing the business world, he had nevere across anything he couldn''t handle. Yet he did not expect to be so stifled by a woman.


    He had hundreds of reasons to rece her, but something felt off. He had to endure this humiliation for now!


    As he nced at Rong Dai treading carefully and prudently, he couldn''t help but soften a little, thinking of her background.


    "Turn around," the man''s tone was still icy, but no longer angry, which made Rong Dai breathe a sigh of relief.


    The design of this ne was very strong. If the neck was a little shorter, or the skin not white enough, or the temperamentcking, this ne''s texture would not stand out.


    But Rong Dai had a slender, fair neck. Wearing this ne suited her extraordinarily well.


    When Huo Shao Ting''s fingertips touched her fair and delicate skin, his movements paused slightly. Staring at the back of her head, his gaze was profound.


    He did not understand what this woman was thinking.


    In all his years of bachelorhood, there were women who had pestered him, but he could discern their intentions with one look.


    She was different. There was no light in her eyes when she looked at him.


    And now, there was light in her eyes, but not because of him. This made Huo Shao Ting feel strangely ufortable.


    "Does it fit?"


    Rong Dai did not notice theplexity in his eyes. She nced down at the ne around her neck. This was her first time wearing such jewelry, so she subconsciously asked the person beside her.


    "Barely," he grunted.


    When she turned around, a hint of amazement shed through Huo Shao Ting''s eyes. Other than their wedding day, he had not seen her dressed up like this again.


    Rong Dai felt a little disappointed, but without a mirror, she could not judge for herself either. She sat quietly without asking Huo Shao Ting anything else.


    When the couple arrived at the venue, Huo Shao Ting courteously helped her out of the car. With V''s helpst night, she had hastily learned some etiquette for such asions. Although still somewhat ufortable, her actions were elegant and dignified.


    The two entered the venue hand in hand. Rong Dai noticed the venue was already full of people, with their seats right at the front. Even the wood of their table was made of precious redwood.


    "President."


    Seeing the couple arrive, Assistant Zhang heaved a huge sigh of relief.


    From yesterday to today, the president''s orders had left him scratching his head. Now, seeing the stunningly beautiful madam, he finally understood.


    It was all to bring a smile to this beauty''s face.


    "Let''s begin," Huo Shao Ting''s expression was cold as ice, his tone always carrying a chill authority.


    Rong Dai sat down with him, but the shing photography lights around made her very ufortable. She was filled with unease, her face pale.


    Huo Shao Ting noticed her difort and quickly typed a few words on his phone.


    When Assistant Zhang saw the message, he couldn''t help widening his eyes. Had the president gone mad?


    Although this auction was funded by the Huo Corporation, it was a charity donation. The attendees were all the top dogs of Shengjing.


    The purpose of attending such a charity auction was to build fame and reputation. If the reporters were chased away, why would these people still attend?


    But he dared not say a thing, dare not ask a thing. He could only grit his teeth and carry out the orders.


    When the reporters received such instructions, they immediately kicked up a fuss.


    But Assistant Zhang had been by Huo Shao Ting''s side for years. His capabilities were proven. In just a few minutes, hundreds of security personnel entered the scene, equipment was confiscated, people were escorted out.


    But the faces of some influential figures were not looking too happy. They came to the charity auction for fame and reputation.


    With the reporters gone, what was there to attend for?


    Yet Huo Shao Ting seemed oblivious to the grumbling behind him. He just sent Assistant Zhang more instructions, leaving the poor man with a headache.


    Rong Dai sat gracefully to one side the whole time, wondering why the reporters had left. But in such an asion, it would reflect badly on her ignorance if she asked.


    So she kept silent. After all, she was just here to apany Huo Shao Ting through the motions. As long as she behaved appropriately, answering what she knew and smiling through what she didn''t, she would not offend anyone or embarrass Huo Shao Ting.


    Although the reporters were gone, the auction carried on as usual. Only halfway in did Rong Dai understand the significance of this auction.


    She had seen countless treasures before. The jewelry here was first-ss, at least in terms of craftsmanship and materials, able to stand the test of time.


    She watched with great interest, though her heart still trembled when hearing those astronomical figures called out.


    What a pity her own pockets were empty, or she would have collected some of these jewels too.


    "Next, we have a jade pendant. ording to expert appraisal, this should be worn by women during ancienting-of-age ceremonies. It is an extremely rare piece of Tianhuang ink jade. Ink jade with an ink ck base��this jade pendant is peerless material!"


    The vague introduction from the auctioneer on stage piqued the curiosity of the attendees.


    Rong Dai was curious too. Tianhuang ink jade, especially the ink ck variety, was the cream of the crop for soft jade, only appearing once in a hundred years.


    When that ink ck jade pendant was brought out, Rong Dai''s body shook violently! Her eyes widened, gaze fixed intensely on the pendant, her heart surging with tumultuous waves!


    This jade pendant...was the one her father had personally put on her when she came of age.


    Her father was strict with her, but his love was as heavy as a mountain. Back then, he had adamantly opposed her entering the pce, fearing she would end up meeting a tragic fate there.


    Yet she had insisted stubbornly, and only after spending years in that cold pce did she finally understand her father''s profound affection.


    Huo Shao Ting had no interest in these things. His attention was focused on monitoring Rong Dai''s behavior. Seeing her be so emotional all of a sudden, his brows couldn''t help but knit together slightly. Did she like relics of dead people?


    "Shao Ting!"


    Hearing someone call out a bid, Rong Dai became anxious at once. Disregarding elegance and propriety, she grabbed his arm tightly with both hands.


    There was unprecedented anxiety in her dark, bright eyes, mixed with some emotions he could notprehend.


    "Hmm?" He cocked a brow and grunted.


    "Could you please help bid for that jade pendant? It''s truly, truly important to me!"


    Hearing the bids climbing higher and higher, Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly. Her pleading tone involuntarily carried hints of sobbing.


    In her past life, the only ones she had wronged were her nsmen. She had been too stubborn, and it had led to the ruin of her entire family.


    She regretted, she resented.


    But all that had be dust now. The appearance of this jade pendant was beyond her expectations, perhaps thest vestige of her past life.

 Chapter 12: The Cost of a hundred Million

    <h4>Chapter 12</h4>


    "As long as you help me take photos, I will definitely earn enough money to pay you back, okay?"


    She put down all her dignity and begged, thinking of the misfortunes of her family in her previous life, her heart was like a knife twisting, with tears gleaming in her eyes.


    When Huo Shao Ting heard her say this, he was a little annoyed, but seeing the tears in her eyes, he felt a little ufortable somewhere in his heart.


    He couldn''t help reaching out and stroking her hair by her ear, his voice mellow and gentle: "Okay."


    "Thank you!" Rong Dai almost cried out, filled with gratitude for Huo Shao Ting, and her impression of him also changed, all negative thoughts disappeared.


    But this was an extremely rare piece of Hetian Biyu jade, even if it was a dead person''s possession, its collection value was immeasurable.


    The Biyu jade was pure ck inside and out, dense and lustrous, the color was rich and dripping. Even if one was not a connoisseur of jade, they could see at a nce how precious this piece of Biyu jade was.


    What was especially precious about this piece of Biyu jade was that it could not actually be called a jade pendant, it would be more urate to call it a jade ring.


    But this piece of Biyu jade was a double ring ovepping, this shape was rare, especially in ancient times, such exquisite craftsmanship was basically only seen in imperial pces.


    What was even more difficult was that there was no carving on this piece of Biyu jade ring, which greatly preserved the essence of the Biyu jade, making it even more valuable as a collectible.


    Rong Dai looked at the jade ring under the spotlight, her hands couldn''t help clenching tightly together. Only she knew that there actually were carvings on this jade ring, just hidden and difficult to notice.


    Moreover, the words were in the script of the Upper Yuan Kingdom, even if discovered, it would be difficult to recognize their meaning, because ording to her research, there was no historical record of the Upper Yuan Kingdom inter ages.


    Seeing her gaze fixed intensely on the jade ring, as if it were a long lost treasure she was eager to regain, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes involuntarily deepened.


    Did this woman recognize this piece of Biyu jade?


    "One billion! Good! Boss Huo is indeed wealthy and generous! Bidding one billion, is there anyone else bidding?"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting raise his paddle, the auctioneer''s eyes lit up, and his tone was delighted.


    Rong Dai''s expression changed. One billion!


    It would take her years to pay it back. But if someone else bid it away, she would never have a chance to get it back.


    So she gritted her teeth and secretly swore to herself that she must earn money, a lot of money!


    This piece of Biyu jade was top quality, but only had collectible value, no value for wearing. This price was already sky high.


    Moreover, everyone present recognized Huo Shao Ting. Topete against him was asking for trouble.


    Rather than offend the Huo family, it was better to concede defeat and give him face.


    In the end, this piece of Biyu jade was sold with a bid of one billion yuan. Rong Dai''s heart settled down.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting." There were still tears in Rong Dai''s eyes. She turned to look at Huo Shao Ting and thanked him sincerely.


    Huo Shao Ting was very puzzled. It was just a jade pendant, why was she so emotional about it? Could this jade pendant have some special meaning?


    "You can say that again after you''ve paid off the auction price." Although he had many questions, Huo Shao Ting held back.


    This woman''s mood swings were too drastic. He was unsure, so he decided to wait and see.


    Rong Dai had originally been very grateful to him, but thinking of that astronomical billion figure, she felt like fainting.


    "Don''t worry, I will." She nodded heavily. The jade pendant being with Huo Shao Ting was better than someone else bidding it away.


    "Go wait in the lounge, I''lle get you." Huo Shao Ting saw his assistant Zhang gesturing, and stood up with an indifferent expression.


    Rong Dai was startled, quickly smoothed her dress and also stood up. She saw the reporters blocking the doorway.


    The shing lights made her ufortable. Although she really wanted to agree, remembering Huo Shao Ting''s generosity in helping her win the jade pendant, and that she had apanied him here in order to maintain the Huo family''s image, she said:


    "No, I''ll go with you." She took a deep breath, instantly concealing her emotions, and regained her dignified and elegant appearance, taking his arm.


    Seeing that she didn''t resist, Huo Shao Ting didn''t say anything more. The two walked towards the hall entrance, where a sea of reporters already waited outside.


    "I''ll handle everything, just answer what you know, and don''t say anything you don''t know. Keep smiling like you are now."


    Sensing her nervousness, Huo Shao Ting whispered in her ear, lightly patting the back of her hand.


    "I will." Rong Dai replied, but her palms were still sweaty with nerves.


    Fortunately she had strong psychologicalposure, and could withstand this kind of situation.


    Just as Huo Shao Ting had instructed, for questions she knew the answers to, she responded, for ones she didn''t, she just smiled and looked to Huo Shao Ting to answer.


    After a round, the reporters had nothing else to ask. Assistant Zhang contacted the organizers, who provided each reporter with a copy of the video recorded at the auction.


    Satisfied, the reporters left. The invited celebrities and tycoons also came up to greet Huo Shao Ting, appeased by these thoughtful arrangements.


    Rong Dai could only keep smiling and apany him in meeting these people. By the time they were done, she already felt back and foot pain, especially from these high heels. Her toes were numb.


    "Shao Ting!"


    She had just caught her breath when Wen Shi Lan''s angry voice came from behind.


    She instinctively let go of Huo Shao Ting''s hand, remembering his generosity in helping her earlier. Rong Dai was grateful, she ought to give them a chance, otherwise it would be too ungrateful.


    Huo Shao Ting was instantly displeased, but Rong Dai had already spoken, "I''ll wait in the car, exin things clearly to Miss Wen, don''t let her misunderstand."


    Misunderstand? What was there to misunderstand?


    Huo Shao Ting was annoyed inwardly, but Rong Dai had already hurried away, her retreating figure looked like she was being chased by ghosts.


    Little did he know Rong Dai had left so quickly because her feet hurt and she wanted to rest sooner.


    "Shao Ting..."


    "What is it?" Wen Shi Lan finally got to him, and he looked at her coldly, his tone t and cold.


    Wen Shi Lan''s face turned pale, her beautiful eyes brimming with grievance. "Shao Ting, what''s wrong with you? Weren''t we fine before? Did I do something unsatisfactory?"


    The Wen family was also prominent in Shengjing, although its enterprises were not as spectacr as before, the foundations built by previous generations still stood. They certainly had a ce at such a high-profile charity auction.


    She never imagined Huo Shao Ting would bring Rong Dai to attend. She had seen clearly all the interactions between them in the hall!


    She never thought Shao Ting would spend a billion for that woman to buy a useless relic!


    What bothered her was not how much that jade pendant was worth, but that Huo Shao Ting was willing to spend so much money for Rong Dai''s sake!


    Huo Shao Ting frowned. When had they ever been fine? He didn''t remember at all.

 Chapter 13: There Was Never Anything.

    <h4>Chapter 13</h4>


    ��Have you misunderstood something? There has never been anything between you and me,�� Huo Shao Ting said very coldly and decisively, his gaze at Wen Shi Lan was also cold.


    Wen Shi Lan was frozen on one side of her body, her face even paler. She had misunderstood?


    She didn''t misunderstand at all!


    Before Rong Dai appeared, he was attentive to her in every possible way. At work, he gave her very detailed guidance and apanied her for meals and gave her gifts. How could that be a misunderstanding?


    If he didn''t like her, how could he have spent so much thought and effort?


    "Shao Ting..."


    "I don''t want to hear those two words from your mouth again. You and I are not that intimate. If I did anything before that gave you the wrong impression, let me make it clear here."


    The man spoke coldly, emitting a chilly aura that forced Wen Shi Lan not toe near him.


    "I took care of you purely because of your father''s dying wish. If you are not satisfied with your position in the Huo Group, you can resign at any time. I am a married man, please restrain yourself and keep your distance from me."


    Huo Shao Ting coldly exined and then turned away without even giving Wen Shi Lan a chance to speak.


    Wen Shi Lan stared after him in shock, her hands and feet icy cold, her face deathly pale, as if she had suffered a tremendous blow.


    Sitting in the car, Rong Dai had been keeping an eye on the two of them all along. Seeing Wen Shi Lan''s expression now, she felt a little guilty that she had caused trouble for Huo Shao Ting.


    After Huo Shao Ting got into the car, she nced at him carefully and asked, "Do you need me to go and exin it to her? This kind of misunderstanding doesn''t seem fair to you."


    If the misunderstanding dragged on for too long, it could turn into something real.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart tightened and his expression became even gloomier: "Mind your own business."


    Rong Dai pursed her lips. He seemed to be in a bad mood. She would find a chanceter to meet Wen Shi Lan and exin things to her, which would settle a small debt.


    The silence in the car was soplete that Rong Dai could clearly hear her own heartbeat. She watched the scenery shing by outside the window and pondered how she could earn money.


    After seeing the two of them leave together, Wen Shi Lan''s face twisted resentfully. She took out her phone and ostensibly made a polite call to Mrs. Huo, "identally" revealing what had happened at the venue.


    "Rong Dai, let''s see how youpete with me! We''ll see about this!"


    After hanging up, Wen Shi Lan felt a little better.


    Rong Dai, meanwhile, was sent back to the old Huo residence by Huo Shao Ting, who went to thepany himself to deal with things.


    Without Huo Shao Ting''s cold, overbearing aura oppressing her, Rong Dai felt her breathing instantly be rxed.


    But as soon as she stepped into the lobby downstairs, she sensed something wrong with the atmosphere.


    Mrs. Huo and her daughter Huo Mei Shu were sitting on the sofa looking very gloomy, especially Mrs. Huo, whose gaze at her was full of anger.


    Rong Dai''s heart lurched. Her expression immediately became meek and respectful. After changing her shoes, she greeted the two of them, "Mom, Mei Shu, you''re home!"


    "If we weren''t home, I expect you would have fooled my elder brother into squandering the family fortune!"


    Huo Mei Shu hissed resentfully, looking at her with ill intent and contemptuous disdain, as well as thick anger.


    Rong Dai was confused. What had she done to offend the mother and daughter this time?


    "Mei Shu, whatever do you mean by that?" She could only ask with an ingratiating smile.


    After all, she was living under their roof. She had to endure for now.


    "Hmph! Every precious gem and high-end designer clothing in the mall that my brother took a fancy to has been bundled up and brought back for you! I wondered why my elder brother was acting so out of character today, actually agreeing to my requests - turns out he had ulterior motives!"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately jumped up, hands on hips, gazing at her with fiery eyes!


    "Spending 100 million on a dead person''s belongings - Rong Dai, I really didn''t expect you to have this kind of scheme to wrap my clever, wise elder brother around your finger so obediently!"


    Rong Dai was shocked. So that was what this was all about!


    News sure traveled fast in this day and age. She had just gotten home and the message had already spread everywhere.


    She sighed to herself. Although she didn''t know if what Huo Mei Shu said about the mall was true or false, the price paid for that jade pendant was real. She couldn''t evade responsibility for that.


    But she had no way to exin it clearly, and Huo Shao Ting had agreed to help her bid on it without asking her reasons. Although the jade pendant wasn''t currently in her hands, she felt at ease.


    So regarding this issue, she could only let Mrs. Huo vent her anger on her, rather than create more trouble for Huo Shao Ting.


    "Mom, I''m very sorry." She stood before the two women and solemnly bowed deeply to Mrs. Huo, speaking gently and peacefully.


    Both Mrs. Huo and Huo Mei Shu were a bit stunned. This wasn''t like her usual self.


    "I''m afraid I can''t fully exin this matter to you right now, but I can write an IOU that I will definitely repay the money for the jade pendant when I''ve earned it. Because that jade pendant is truly very important to me - it''s like...a loved one."


    Rong Dai spoke earnestly and sincerely, neither arrogantly nor humbly, with a contrite, modest attitude.


    She knew very well that if she didn''t exin clearly, Mrs. Huo wouldn''t let her off. There was even a chance of worsening the rtionship between mother-inw and daughter-inw that had just started to improve a little.


    So she made the decision in an instant - she had to apologize very sincerely.


    Although 100 million wasn''t a huge sum to a wealthy family like the Huos, it certainly didn''t blow in with the wind. A jade pendant alone costing up to 100 million was bound to raiseints from any mother-inw.


    Huo Mei Shu was taken aback. She had been about to snipe at her again but seeing her red-rimmed eyes, she changed her words at thest moment: "Easy for you to say - even if you sold yourself, you wouldn''t make up even a fraction of that amount. How will you pay it back?"


    Rong Dai was also troubled by this matter, but in any case, her mother-inw''s expression was no longer as angry as before, so there was still room for reconciliation in this matter.


    "Please give me a moment."


    She knew empty words carried no weight, especially since she was still Huo Shao Ting''s wife currently. They had every reason to believe she wouldn''t repay the money.


    She hurried upstairs to the bedroom, took out paper, a pen and her ID card, and quickly looked up the information on her phone. Following the format, she neatly wrote an IOU.


    She had originally wanted to use a name stamp, but on second thought, she gritted her teeth and pressed her fingerprint into the paper after piercing her finger - then took the IOU note downstairs.


    "Mom, please check if there are any problems with this. I won''t go back on this debt."


    She was sincere in attitude. Mrs. Huo looked at the graceful, neat handwriting and the note met all legal requirements urately.


    "Rong Dai, have you lost your mind? Biting your own finger to press a fingerprint, do you have a mental illness?"


    Huo Mei Shu also hadn''t expected her to be so sincere. Seeing her still bleeding finger, she immediately red and scolded angrily!

 Chapter 14: I can鈥檛 sell Enough for Pennies.

    <h4>Chapter 14</h4>


    Rong Dai smiled unconcernedly, "I was in a hurry just now and couldn''t find the imprint oil, afraid that you would get angry with mother and hurt yourself, so it wouldn''t be worth it."


    When Huo Mei Shu heard her say this, she didn''t know what to say. She just called Wang Ma over to treat her wound.


    Mrs. Huo looked at her withplicated eyes. She was a little unclear about this daughter-inw.


    When the eldest son wanted to marry her earlier, she was unwilling. But the old madame insisted and the eldest son had also agreed to it, so she could only let it go.


    But what kind of person did he bring back as a bride? She wore a long face every day, like a ghost. If it wasn''t for the fact that she was still breathing, she would have thought the family was raising a piece of wood that could breathe!


    The eldest son tried to please her three or five times, but she didn''t buy any of it at all. She hid in the room all day and never came out or greeted anyone she saw.


    How did she suddenly seem to havee to her senses these past two days?


    "Mother, Mei Shu, don''t be angry. I will exin the matter of the jade pendant at an appropriate time. It is really important to me. I also know the amount is veryrge. I will definitely try my best to pay it back."


    Rong Dai saw that Wang Ma had treated her wound well, and Mrs. Huo and Huo Mei Shu''s expressions had also eased up. She also felt slightly relieved.


    Fortunately, this was a rich aristocratic family, and they had decent upbringing as a foundation.


    If she had met a more hot-tempered mother-inw, it would have been hard to deal with. Her trick of ying the victim and lowering herself wouldn''t have worked.


    "Please forgive me for my previous impoliteness. It was really because my mother passed away... From now on I will be a good daughter-inw of the Huo family. Please rest assured, mother."


    This was the most suitable time to dere her stance. She could tell that Mrs. Huo was well-educated, otherwise with this kind of incident, others would have likely alreadyshed out.


    She didn''t expect to be as close as mother and daughter with Mrs. Huo, she just hoped the other party wouldn''t make things difficult for her, so she could peacefully live out this year in the Huo family.


    Seeing her sincere attitude, and also thinking of her bleak life experience, the anger on Mrs. Huo''s face also disappeared. But she still spoke with an air of sternness, "I''ll let it go this time, don''t let it happen again. Go upstairs and tidy up, go see how your grandmother is doing."


    She had already lowered her stance so much. If she was still overbearing, what would that make her?


    "Mom, what are you guys arguing about? I rarelye back once, and I can''t even get a good sleep?"


    Just as Rong Dai was about to go upstairs, azy and rich male voice rang out from upstairs. Huo Shao Jie walked out of his room wearing only a bath towel, with a hint of charm in hisziness.


    "Sister-inw!" Huo Shao Jie immediately greeted her with a smile when he saw her.


    Rong Dai found it difficult to ept a strange man being naked in front of her, and quickly avoided looking at him, "Shao Jie, hello."


    This was Huo Shao Ting''s younger brother, Huo Shao Jie.


    Based on the original host''s limited memories, he seemed to be a very good actor. Hmm...what they called a performer in her previous life.


    Rong Dai also didn''t expect that performers could be so popr in this era.


    After greeting him, she hurried upstairs.


    "Has sister-inw changed her nature?" Huo Shao Jie rubbed his hair and looked at Mrs. Huo and Huo Mei Shu in puzzlement.


    "How would I know? She''s just a weirdo." Huo Mei Shu was also puzzled herself. Thinking that Huo Shao Jie had not fulfilled any of the things he had promised her, she was toozy to pay him any attention and also went upstairs.


    Mrs. Huo looked at the IOU on the table and hesitated before putting it away.


    "Mom, you can''t be really asking sister-inw to repay it right? This was voluntary by my brother. Don''t you know what kind of person he is? Who could trick or force him?" Huo Shao Jie was shocked when he saw this.


    "Mind your own business. Don''t worry about these things. Neither of you brothers have given me any peace of mind." Mrs. Huo nced at him unpleasantly and walked away with the IOU.


    Huo Shao Jie tried unsessfully and shrugged to himself before going to the kitchen to find food.


    Rong Dai entered the room and took off her clothes, carefully removing the jewelry from her body.


    Without having figured out everything about this world, she had somehow shouldered a debt of over a billion yuan, which gave Rong Dai a headache.


    Just as she opened the wardrobe to change clothes, she saw that her originally dark-colored clothes were gone, reced by dozens of exquisite clothes still hanging with price tags.


    Her mind buzzed as she suddenly remembered what Huo Mei Shu had said downstairs - Huo Shao Ting had almost bought the entire shopping mall!


    She hurried to check the prices on these tags, and her heart chilled with each one she looked at.


    Was Huo Shao Ting nning to crush her under the debt?


    Rong Dai felt chills run down her spine repeatedly, but she clearly knew that she didn''t have the right to resist. Otherwise if she angered Huo Shao Ting, she would only have the option of packing up and leaving.


    The clothes she used to have were already cleaned out, and...wearing a dead person''s clothes was indeed a little creepy.


    Rong Dai sighed softly. She had previously promised Huo Shao Ting some things, and estimated that there would still be many opportunities to attend events with him in the future. She couldn''t wear the same outfit every time.


    Since these clothes were bought, they were bought. At most she would keep ounts and pay him back item by item until it was all cleared. She was sure she could pay it all back.


    She thought it through clearly, and selected a casual goose yellow outfit to change into. She was going to find a box to put away this set of diamond jewelry to return to Huo Shao Tingter.


    But she saw the various exquisite jewelry neatly arranged on the dressing table. Each piece was top quality. Although they couldn''tpare to some of the rare treasures she had seen in her previous life, even just one or two pieces here made one''s scalp tingle at the price.


    Especially for a poor person like her.


    Rong Dai felt a chill down her spine. She hurriedly took out her phone and calcted the prices of the clothes in the closet one by one, plus these jewelry, plus the 80,000 yuan clothing from the mall, plus the 100 million yuan, and so on.


    Her whole body felt cold. She began to wonder if she had been too arrogant saying she would pay back the money.


    Almost 2 billion yuan...


    Even if she sold herself, it wouldn''t make a dent.


    Rong Dai felt helpless. She sat on the bed sighing deeply, but she also clearly knew that she didn''t have the right to resist. Otherwise, provoking Huo Shao Ting would only result in her having to pack up and leave.


    She hadn''t seen Huo Shao Ting for a full two days, and she had also lost sleep for two days, even losing quite a bit of hair.


    Whenever sheid down, the long string of numbers for the 20 billion yuan debt appeared in her mind. Especially when she thought of her current penniless state, Rong Dai felt immense pressure.


    "Sister-inw, what''s wrong with you these two days? You look so terrible. Are you suffocating at home? Do you want toe to the set with me for some fresh air? My brother is a busy man. It''s normal to not see him for ten days or half a month. Don''t take it to heart."


    Huo Shao Jie was eating breakfast in the dining room. Seeing hering down looking dejected with dark circles under her eyes, he couldn''t help asking her.

 Chapter 15: Can you lend me 200 million

    <h4>Chapter 15</h4>


    Rong Dai was not like this just because she couldn''t see Huo Shao Ting. She was like this because of the nearly 2 billion yuan debt.


    As she slowly walked to the dining table, looking at Huo Shao Jie''s handsome and charming face, she couldn''t appreciate it at all.


    Thinking about how this young uncle was quite easy to get along with in the original owner''s memories, she couldn''t help asking, "Shao Jie, do you know the fastest way to earn 2 billion yuan?"


    Huo Shao Jie was startled. "What do you need so much money for? Are you short on money? I''ll transfer you someter."


    Rong Dai sighed. Her dark eyes were dim and lifeless: "Then can you transfer 2 billion to me?"


    Huo Shao Jie nearly spit out his mouthful of rice!


    Sister-inw, are you borrowing money? This is robbery, isn''t it?


    "Forget it, you probably don''t have it either. Just pretend I didn''t say anything."


    Seeing his reaction, Rong Dai let out a soft sigh. She picked up her chopsticks and ate her breakfast listlessly.


    Huo Shao Jie felt insulted, but he calcted in his heart... He had just started a new drama and didn''t seem to be able to take out 2 billion at the moment.


    "You said you were going to the drama set earlier?" After drinking a few sips of porridge, Rong Dai btedly remembered what he had said.


    "Yeah, Granny went out to y with her olddy friends, Mom also went out, Mei Shu is still in school, preparing to go abroad, and my brother often disappears for 10 days to half a month. Wouldn''t you be bored at home alone?" Huo Shao Jie nodded. He rather admired his sister-inw. Despite being so young, she didn''t have any interest in the glitz and mor of the outside world at all. In this regard, she was very much like his elder brother.


    Rong Dai''s mind lit up. Who knows, maybe she could find a job at the drama set?


    She already had everything she needed right now. Even if she was given a high-end job, she wouldn''t know how to do it. It''d be better to start from the basics and learn more. She believed in her own abilities.


    "Then I''ll have to trouble you. Being home alone is... quite boring." She forced out a smile.


    2 billion yuan, it really was worrying!


    Huo Shao Jie was startled by her strange smile. He quickly stopped her from smiling anymore.


    After breakfast, Rong Dai went upstairs to change into a set of clothes. It was still very hot in Shenjing in July. Most of the clothes in her wardrobe were brightly colored.


    She was confident in her looks and figure. Although it would take time for her to get used to dressing like this, she could adapt.


    Besides, Huo Shao Ting wouldn''t care what she wore anyway. After all, the one he loved was Wen Shi Lan, and she had no rtionship with him whatsoever.


    "Sister-inw, wouldn''t it be unsafe for you to go out dressed like this? My brother will beat me to death when hees back." Huo Shao Jie looked at herke green off-shoulder long dress and white low-heeled shoes. Half of her slender, milk-white calves were exposed, glowing brightly.


    Youth, vitality, freshness.


    There was an inherent elegance and refinement in her bones. Huo Shao Jie''s heart even skipped a beat uncontrobly.


    Previously whenever he came back, he would see Rong Dai dressed entirely in ck. If it wasn''t for her excessively pale face, he would''ve thought she was a charred human-shaped tree stump struck by lightning.


    Rong Dai was very confident in her own abilities. "It''ll be fine. Let''s go."


    Looking at the bright and glorious sunshine, Rong Dai heaved a long sigh of relief. She kept psyching herself up in her heart, and the gloom in her heart had mostly dispersed.


    Huo Shao Jie seized the opportunity when she tilted her head back, eyes closed, facing the sky. He snapped a photo and immediately sent it to Huo Shao Ting on WeChat.


    He still had to give his brother advance notice about things like this, otherwise he''d be the one to die when his brother came back.


    Huo Shao Ting, who was in a meeting, saw his phone light up on the table. He picked it up and saw Rong Dai''s youthful and vibrant photo. The sunlight reflected off her milk-white skin, as if she was coated in ayer of light. Two words immediately popped into his mind: elf.


    Then, as if possessed, he inexplicably sent back: Bring her back in one piece.


    After the message was sent sessfully, he realized something was off. Just as he was about to take it back, he received an emoji pack from Huo Shao Jie. His outstretched hand shrank back and he turned his phone off.


    Rong Dai followed Huo Shao Jie to the drama set. Many people looked at her doubtfully, but someone soon recognized her identity. Their gazes inevitably became more probing as they looked at her.


    "Can I walk around and see everything?"


    Rong Dai found it all very novel. Seeing Huo Shao Jie get handed a pile of documents by his assistant as soon as he came in, she looked at him curiously and asked.


    Huo Shao Jie nced around. "Okay, but be careful. This is a temporary set, they''re auditioning for roles. Some things aren''t stable so don''t run around."


    "Don''t worry." Rong Dai nodded and strode away on her own.


    There were many people who came to audition. Despite the zing sun, not a single person was impatient.


    Seeing the huge crowd, Rong Dai chose to avoid them. She strolled around aimlessly until she reached the audition stage.


    "They''re really going all out."


    Seeing the auditioning actors cry and fall down onmand, she couldn''t help but sigh in amazement. She also found it very interesting.


    She was curious to see how people in this day and age understood pce life in ancient times, so she found a chair and sat to one side to watch the auditions. She ended up engrossed in watching, and even verbally evaluated each actor who went on stage.


    "Next! What are you all acting?! Not a shred of the aura of an empress! Next!"


    The director wasn''t so harsh when they were auditioning for supporting roles. But when they finalized the female lead, the director''s expression grew increasingly gloomy, and his anger spread throughout the audition stage.


    "Director Lu, thest confirmed actress can''t make it." The assistant gingerly reported.


    The director immediately kicked over the chair next to him in anger. The people at the audition stage cowered in fear, while only Rong Dai still had a rxed and delighted expression.


    "You! Come over here!"


    The director''s rage was reaching its peak. He turned and just happened to see Rong Dai''s "schadenfreude" expression, which further infuriated him. He pointed at her and yelled loudly!


    Rong Dai was shocked. She reflexively looked left and right, but everyone else was staff.


    "I''m talking to you! What are you looking at?! Hurry up ande audition!" The director was furious. His assistant tried to remind him several times that she wasn''t an actress who hade to audition, but never found an opportunity.


    Rong Dai blinked. She looked at him clearly and asked, "If I act for you, will I get paid?"


    She urgently needed money! Very urgently! She was happy to oblige if she could earn money.


    Director Lu was immediately amused with anger. He sneered, "You can talk about it after you pass the audition. Hurry up! I won''t say it a third time!"


    As soon as Rong Dai heard she could earn money, her eyes lit up. She immediately walked over.


    But once she stood on stage, she became a little nervous again. She still wasn''t used to being watched by so many people.


    However, for her 2 billion yuan, she had to go all out!


    She recalled the content performed by the previous actresses in her mind. The gist was the empress'' scene after her n was overthrown and she was condemned by the emperor, marking their split.


    This aligned very well with her past experiences splitting from the emperor!


    But she had to control it carefully. Too much force would be overkill, while too little wouldck the dignity and pride of an empress. She needed some time to reflect back, after all it had been many years since then.

 Chapter 16: Always a Concubine

    <h4>Chapter 16</h4>


    Rong Dai stood on the stage, silently taking two deep breaths in an effort to calm herself down.


    "Can you please give me a little time?" She looked towards the director. She needed some time to adapt, and also some time to recall that heartbreak that she had sealed away in her heart.


    Lu Dao had a reputation in the industry for being extremely demanding, but the actors who emerged from under his tutge were all wildly popr. Actors could only wait for the opportunity to work with him, and no one had ever dared ask him for time like this before.


    The assistant stood to the side, wanting to remind her several times, but also afraid of Lu Dao''s impatience and gloom.


    "This scene requires very strong inner emotions. I need some time to get into character. Also, I''d like to ask everyone here to stay quiet. If possible, please turn off all this equipment too, thank you."


    If this had been any other day, Lu Ye would absolutely not have agreed to an actor''s request like this.


    As an actor, you should be able to get into character at any time and ce. This was an actor''s most basic skill.


    But for some reason today, when he saw Rong Dai''s eyes like the stars in the sky, he nodded and agreed.


    The assistant was overjoyed inside. He hurriedly called for the crew to turn off all the lights and equipment in the audition room.


    The audition room became so quiet that you could only hear everyone''s heartbeats and breathing. The crew left only one light on Rong Dai.


    Standing under the pale bright light, Rong Dai ced a hand on her chest, softly exhaling. The events of her past life became clearer and clearer in her mind.


    When she first met him as a youth, it was love at first sight. Her young heart silently promised itself to him.


    Even just standing quietly in a crowd, that refined and gentle young man would make her notice him with just one nce.


    Despite her parents'' and n''s opposition, she insisted on marrying him, silently vowing to herself to be a good wife to him for life.


    She seeded.


    She was the precious daughter of a prestigious n with generations of glorious service to the throne, deeply favored by the Emperor.


    Just as she wished, she became his Imperial Consort. He said he wanted to stand in that position in order to protect everything of theirs.


    She believed him. Disregarding the opposition of her father and brothers, she threatened them unto death, forcing them to assist him.


    Her eldest brother, in order to save him on the battlefield, so that his younger sister could enjoy a lifetime offort and prestige, took a de for him, bing disabled for life.


    Her second brother lead troops into battle to help him quell a rebellion. The borders were stabilized, but her second brother returned lying silently in a coffin, his body pierced by thirty-six swords, each one fatal!


    Her elder sister, so that she could securely hold the position of Imperial Consort, could only sever ties and break off her engagement with her childhood sweetheart, marrying off to a distant feudal lord to help secure his territory.


    Later, that territory eventually rebelled. Her elder sister suffered utter humiliation and died. The child in her belly only had one month left before birth. She could have had a cute little nephew.


    She thought that he would appreciate everything her n had sacrificed for him. She never expected that all they would get in return was banishment of the entire n, forbidden to return to the capital for generations!


    On his deathbed, her eldest brother sent her a single message - expelling her from the n registry! She was no longer of the Rong family!


    She was devastated with grief and indignation. She tore away herposure and propriety that she had always maintained before him. Yet she never expected to hear the true thoughts in his heart when he married her!


    It turned out to be for exploitation! For power!


    She was just a pawn in his hands. The only woman he ever truly loved was the Imperial Noble Consort. Before marrying her, the two already had a secret affair, and had a pair of children!


    As for her, after spontaneously miscarrying once, she had difficulty conceiving again.


    Facing her questioning, that gentleman once as refined as a deity spoke coldly, looking upon her with disgust, as if seeing the humiliation he once suffered as a prince!


    Her very existence was a constant reminder that everything he possessed was given by a woman!


    She had offered her sincere devotion, only to get family ruin and death in return!


    He didn''t kill her, yet other than hatred and fury, she could do nothing!


    Hatred and indignation roiled inside Rong Dai. A towering resentment and rage churned from her heart!


    She was unwilling, she was unresigned, she hated, she raged!


    In a sh, she opened her eyes. They were rimmed red, and her entire body radiated an aura of full strength!


    Having spent many years as an Imperial Consort, she had long ago cultivated that free-flowing imperial aura!


    Her eyes held interwoven hatred and fury, grief and indignation unto despair. Intense emotions were inteced, as if wanting to destroy everything under heaven!


    A deranged yet tragic smile slowly crept up her exquisite face. Yet that smile too was interwoven with hate and rage. Her phoenix eyes stared fixedly ahead, as if someone really stood before her.


    She didn''t speak, only walked forward one step at a time, her gaze never leaving that spot.


    Her smile was deranged, self-deprecating, tragic, enraged!


    Her eyes were vicious, insane!


    "I offered my sincere devotion with both hands, only to find that I was a pawn deftly arranged long ago by you, Your Majesty. How wonderful, perfectly wonderful!"


    When she spoke, her words were extremely cold, full of mockery and indignation.


    "Your Majesty spared my life, so I shall not die! I will wait to watch how Your Majesty''s state and family will be ruined! Without my Rong n''s assistance, you are nothing but a destitute prince born of a lowly pce maid, unfit to stand on that throne!"


    She hated herself for being blind, for not listening to her father and brothers, leading her Rong n to this fate!


    She hated this man even more for his heartlessness and ruthlessness, for his viciousness! Toying with her in his palm!


    "As long as Rong Dai still draws breath for one more day, I will pray for you every day Your Majesty, to walk steadily, do not stumble and fall into an abyss of ten thousand feet, never to rise again for eternity! There is no need for Your Majesty to worry, I will voluntarily enter the Cold Pce."


    In an instant, all emotion seemed to freeze over her face, like ake sealed in ice, chillingly stark!


    Her gaze suddenly shifted to another direction. Her hands were still sped before her, still elegant and dignified. Her eyes revealed ridicule, her mouth hooking into a cold mocking smile:


    "Even if I, Rong Dai, enter the Cold Pce, you can never sit on that throne. A concubine is forever just a concubine, always an unpresentable thing."


    She smiled coldly. That coldness made people feel a chill down their spine, hair standing on end!


    Her gaze turned again towards the "Emperor", her words utterly icy: "The position of Imperial Noble Consort suits you well, Your Majesty. I will just stand by and see what virtues and abilities Your Majesty possesses to manage this empire."

 Chapter 17: She鈥檚 the One

    <h4>Chapter 17</h4>


    Rong Dai finished speaking and then closed her eyes. The pain was torn open again. Her heart was in such agony that she almost copsed!


    In her previous life, she had killed her father, brothers, and sisters, and caused her n members to be exiled, yet she could not die.


    She dared not die. She did not dare to face her dead father, brothers and sisters. She just did not expect that she would eventually die in the cold pce, unable to see the emperor fall into the abyss. This was her regret and obsession.


    She was speechless for a long time. The audition stage was also frighteningly quiet. The wetness in the corners of her eyes made her somewhat helpless.


    "Good! It''s her!" Lu Ye suddenly pped his hands. The crew in the audition stage were startled awake. They hurriedly turned on the lights and started up the machines.


    Rong Dai quickly blinked her eyes and swallowed back the tears.


    The pain that had been sealed for more than ten years, she never dared to touch it. She did not expect that after being reborn in this modern world, she still had to rely on the Rong family to survive.


    Thinking of this, Rong Dai was in an extremely low mood. Even with Lu Ye''s approval, she could only force out a nd smile at the corners of her mouth.


    "Thank you, Director. May I ask how much will I be paid?"


    Although she was hurt and sad, now that she had been reborn again, she could not be like her past life. She had to live a peaceful life with her parents and siblings�� wishes to live up to their sacrifice.


    Lu Ye walked over to her. His gaze was very appreciative, as if shining. It had been a long time since he had encountered such a talented and spirited actor!


    "We will definitely not shortchange you. My assistant will discuss this with your agent. Let me tell you about this drama..."


    "Director Lu, um..." The assistant was also shocked by Rong Dai''s acting skills. Just now, that scene brought them into it, as if they had witnessed a major scene of the empress'' split from the emperor.


    But this person is not an actor at all. She is the wife of the prestigious Huo family!


    "You don''t know how to do your job? Can''t you see I''m busy here? The audition for the female lead is over for today. Hurry up and arrange for the male leads tomorrow! If anyone dares to quit on me again, don''te to my ys anymore!"


    Lu Ye had a weird temper. He was obsessed with filming and never cared about the people around him.


    The assistant''s face turned pale. He could only look at Rong Dai pleadingly: "Mrs. Huo, please exin to Director Lu..."


    If the Huo Group found out that the wife of their family came out to act, would this drama still be produced?


    p, p, p!


    "Sister-inw, I didn''t expect you to have this talent!" Before the assistant finished speaking, Huo Shaojie walked in apuding with a charming smile.


    Although he did not see Rong Dai''s performance just now, someone had recorded it on their phone. After watching it, he was also shocked.


    He never imagined that his sister-inw, whom he had only met a few times and rarely heard speak at home, would have such high talent in acting.


    Although the lines were not from the script, just the look in her eyes conveyed the grief and resentment of a woman and the hatred of an empress vividly.


    If it weren''t for the fact that it was the real person standing on stage, he would have thought it was an illusion.


    "Sister-inw?" Now it was Lu Ye''s turn to be confused. The assistant took the opportunity to whisper in his ear.


    "So she''s not a professional actor, she''s your sister-inw?" Lu Ye looked at Huo Shaojie in shock and panic.


    If that was the case, then she probably couldn''t act!


    And they had spent a great deal of effort on this script. He was personally looking forward to this drama very much. Even without Rong Dai saying a word earlier, just that one look in her eyes, he was certain no one but her could y the female lead!


    The reason he used this part for the audition was because it was the most difficult scene. Whether the actor could control and carry this drama depended critically on this scene.


    Once this scene copsed, the quality of the whole drama would decrease.


    Huo Shaojie raised his eyebrows at him with a smile: "What do you think?"


    Lu Ye nodded approvingly: "Very good. No one but her can y the female lead. Even if I look at others, no one is as shocking as her. But will your eldest brother agree?"


    Even as obsessed with his work as he was, he knew the strength of the Huo Group. It would be absolutely uneptable for the wife of such a prestigious family toe out and act.


    At that time, Huo Shaojie had endured tremendous pressure before achieving his sess in this profession.


    If the Huo Group found out that he had not only led their second son astray, but also their daughter-inw, wouldn''t they kill him?


    Lu Ye felt a chill in his heart, watching such great acting skills slip through his fingers. His heart felt like it had been stabbed with a knife!


    Huo Shaojie was also at a loss. His elder brother...he was not at all confident that he could get his brother to agree to let his sister-inw out to act. Without even guessing, he knew the chances were zero.


    Rong Dai stood aside watching the two discuss andpletely ignore her, the person involved. She couldn''t help but ask them: "Shouldn''t you be asking me first?"


    She and Huo Shaoting had reached an agreement. Although acting was not very respectable in her past life, it was different now. The acting profession was still very popr and paid well.


    She didn''t know any other job now, and this happened to be a suitable role for her. If she missed this opportunity, when could she repay Huo Shaoting the 200 million yuan she owed him?


    Just thinking of the long string of zeros made Rong Dai''s scalp tingle.


    In her previous life, she was originally a youngdy of a prestigious n, so she naturally understood how much these prestigious families valued face.


    If she really went out to act, it would probably embarrass the Huo family. Not to mention whether Huo Shaoting would agree, her mother-inw would probably be the first to disagree.


    But she desperately needed this opportunity and this job!


    "Sister-inw, my brother will not agree. Don''t worry about that money. My brother won''t hold it against you. My mother was just putting on an act. Don''t take it to heart."


    Huo Shaojie was still timid. He didn''t need to think to know his elder brother would absolutely not agree. Although it was a pity, it was still better than him being "exiled" by his elder brother.


    Rong Dai shook her head. As a former empress, and youngdy of the Rong family, her words werew. Where would her dignity be otherwise?


    "I will discuss this with Shaoting, but I really need to go out and work. You don''t want to see me like before every time youe home either, right? I...just need a space to express myself."


    She exined very seriously to Huo Shaojie. She couldn''t say that she and Huo Shaoting already had an agreement to divorce after a year, and that Huo Shaoting wouldn''t control her.


    If she said that today, there was no saying she wouldn''t be kicked out of the Huo family tomorrow.

 Chapter 18: Will not Agree

    <h4>Chapter 18</h4>


    Huo ShaoJIe thought about her previous gloomy and silent appearance, and then looked at Rong Dai now, who loved tough and talk, as cheerful as the bright sun.


    If she changed back to how she was before... A sudden chill went down his spine. That would be too creepy, and too difficult for his big brother.


    "Let''s discuss this matter with big brother when we get home first, and you can continue with the audition for now," Huo ShaoJIe said with a nod. He couldn''t make this decision alone. With the Huo family''s connections, big brother and mother would definitely not agree to let sister-inw go out to act.


    But after all, this was sister-inw''s own business. The entertainment industry may have some unsavory parts, but that doesn''t mean the whole ce is dirty. The key still depends on sister-inw''s own intentions.


    Lu Ye wanted to say something but held back. Even with his capabilities in the industry, he didn''t dare offend someone like Huo Shao Ting.


    Thinking of how he had yelled at Rong Dai earlier, cold sweat broke out on his back. He pulled Huo Shao JIe aside to ask more.


    Rong Dai didn''t have as many thoughts. She just wanted to make money.


    She was nowpletely ignorant about everything in this new world, from academics to socializing. Even if the things she had learned in her previous life could be of a tiny bit of use, a clever woman can do nothing without the proper resources.


    She didn''t have any money on her. Everything was difficult for her here.


    Although she didn''t like this entertainment industry that much personally, and didn''t like this kind of job that required publicity, she had no other choice.


    Even if she could find a job she was capable of now, the money would still fall far short of the 200 million she had lost.


    She could only first stabilize her current situation, and then consider long-term survival means in this new world.


    At the very least, she had to ensure she wouldn''t starve to death after leaving the Huo family.


    After discussing with Lu Ye for a while, Huo Shao JIe still had work to do, and Rong Dai was also happy to stay in the audition studio, so he found a chair to sit next to Lu Ye and watched the actors auditioning behind attentively.


    Lu Ye was distracted. Although he knew the hope was slim, he still wanted Rong Dai to y the female lead in his film. That one look of hers earlier had already drawn them in.


    "Mrs. Huo, have you really never professionally trained in acting before?" Seeing the auditions behind weren''t going well, Lu Ye finally lost patience and pulled a stool over to ask Rong Dai directly.


    Rong Dai turned to look at him and didn''t answer immediately. She thought about what the original host had studied, but she didn''t inherit too many of the original host''s memories. She vaguely remembered that the original host seemed to have studied design.


    "I studied design. This is my first audition," she said gently, unconsciously exuding an aura of tranquil elegance that made her seem very approachable.


    Lu Ye immediately became more interested. So this was her natural talent?


    An actor with such gifts and spirit, he couldn''t miss this opportunity. He must discuss properly with Mr. Huo!


    "Mrs. Huo, this is my number. If you discuss it through with Mr. Huo, could you give me a call back at your earliest convenience? Your performance truly amazed me. This role is perfect for you!"


    Lu Ye''s eyes shone brightly, as if seeing some treasure.


    Rong Dai didn''t refuse either, and took out her phone to call Lu Ye: "This is my number. Shao Ting doesn''t control me much. I can decide this matter myself. Director Lu, I want to know what the pay would be for this?"


    Lu Ye treasured her number and saved it carefully. Hearing her mention pay again, he had his assistant bring over some documents: "Mrs. Huo, take a look. These are the works from my studio, with top celebrities, some second and third-tier ones too. The pay is set based on their poprity and worth."


    Rong Dai listened. Although she was a bit confused, not understanding these concepts of worth and poprity, she knew she had none of that. She could only nod and pretend to look through the documents cooperatively.


    Seeing her somewhat disappointed look, Lu Ye thought she was unsatisfied with the pay and felt a bit nervous. It seemed he''d have to bother Huo Shao JIe more for this. The two of them were co-funding this film, so he was involved too.


    "Sister-inw, time to go," Huo Shao JIe said,ing over after finishing his work. It was already afternoon. Seeing Rong Dai still chatting with Lu Ye in the audition studio, he called out to her.


    Rong Dai came to her senses and realized how fast time had passed. She hurriedly got up and tidied her skirt a little, a shallow yet warm smile always on her face. "Director Lu, just call me Rong Dai in the future. I''ll read through the script carefully when I get home."


    She was holding a small stack of the female lead''s scenes, feeling very reassured with its weight.


    Huo Shao JIe nced at Lu Ye. He hadn''t even talked to big brother about this yet, and this guy was already overstepping!


    Lu Yepletely ignored his gaze, smiling obsequiously.


    Rong Dai didn''t notice anything between the two men. Hugging the script, she left the audition studio in great spirits. Not until she returned to the Huo residence did she restrain her ted mood slightly.


    This new world was different from her old one. Although one should not reveal emotions, she had been too restrained in her past life. Now living another life, she didn''t n on constantly suppressing herself anymore, but she didn''t dare go too far either.


    After all, she was living off others now.


    "Madam, Young Master, you''re back. Old Madam is back and resting upstairs. The Young Lady left a message that she and Miss won''t be back for dinner."


    Wang Ma came up to take Rong Dai''s shoes and reported to them as soon as she saw the two return.


    "Will big brother be back? It''s been several days since he came home, right?" Huo Shao JIe asked while sitting down on the living room sofa and taking out his phone. He had to discuss this in person with big brother.


    In a good mood, Rong Dai hugged the script and went upstairs to the bedroom. After carefully putting away the script, she went upstairs to see Old Madam Huo.


    Downstairs, Huo Shao JIe got staff to send over footage of Rong Dai''s audition today and directly sent it to Huo Shao Ting, while taking advantage of Old Madam''s face to ask him toe home for dinner.


    Huo Shao Ting had just finished work at thepany and was about to have a video conference, but after seeing the video Huo Shao JIe sent, he immediately had his assistant reschedule the conference for tomorrow and left work to return to the Huo residence right away.

 Chapter 19: The Old Lady鈥檚 Condition

    <h4>Chapter 19</h4>


    "Grandma, look at me staying at home every day without much to do. I also want to go out and see more of the world. Shaoting is so excellent, and I''m his wife, so I should also be more outstanding, right?"


    Rong Dai was sitting on the soft nket in the small garden upstairs, speaking gently to Old Madam Huo with a book on her knee.


    She had just been rejected by Old Madam Huo when she first brought it up. Rong Dai''s maternal family was once one of the most prominent aristocratic families in Shenjing. She was brought up in a rather traditional way and disliked the entertainment industry to begin with.


    And Rong Dai was the daughter-inw she had personally approved of, so of course she would not agree to let her go to such a ce.


    But Rong Dai was determined to act in this drama, because she really needed the money, and the role was perfect for her.


    One year was a very short time. She had to stabilize her life in this one year. It was already not easy for Shaoting Huo to agree to give her a year.


    There was little she could do in this one year. She really couldn''t give up such an opportunity.


    "Do you really want to go that much?" Old Madam Huo looked at her and took off her reading sses, staring at her closely.


    She liked this girl because she was not restless like other girls. It was good enough for her to be quiet and peaceful.


    The Huo family had reached its limit. They didn''t need a strong woman to emerge in the family anymore.


    Although Shaoting was very capable, hecked the desire for marriage. The two children were simr in some ways.


    They had things inmon. Getting together just needed some time. This was also why she had insisted that Shaoting marry this girl back then.


    "I really want to go, Grandma. Please agree to it, okay? And this is produced by Shaojie. Don''t you trust his works?"


    Seeing signs of Old Madam Huo softening, Rong Dai immediately nodded and brought up Shaojie Huo to sing his praises.


    If it was someone else, it would probably be impossible to persuade Old Madam Huo.


    This was also why she had resolutely given Yue Cheng the promise when auditioning. Since Shaojie Huo could set foot in the entertainment industry, she could also get in with some more effort.


    Old Madam Huo heaved a deep sigh, put her sses back on, and looked down at the book in her hands again.


    "You can go if you want to see more of the world. It''s true that you''ve been bored at home for a long time without Shaoting around to keep youpany. That''s unfair to you."


    A shallow smile appeared on Rong Dai''s face. "Grandma, I don''t me Shaoting. I just don''t want to stay at home like this all the time. I''d go crazy from boredom. It''s rare to have such an opportunity, so let me try it!"


    Seeing her coquettish manner, and thinking of how she interacted with Shaoting Huo, Old Madam Huo was also worried. Perhaps this could also improve the rtionship between the two. That child Shaoting had suffered too much.


    "You can go."


    "Thank you Grandma, I knew you''d be the most understanding!" Rong Dai was overjoyed and happily rested her head on the olddy''s arm.


    The olddy immediately smiled. "Little thing, you''ve learned to be glib too. I haven''t told you the conditions yet!"


    "Tell me, Grandma!" Rong Dai immediately sat up straight and looked at her obediently. It was already not easy for Old Madam Huo topromise, so it was to be expected that there would be conditions.


    The smile on the olddy''s face faded and she looked at her solemnly. "Although the Huo family is not feudal and conservative, the entertainment industry is still too chaotic."


    Rong Dai didn''t respond, just listened quietly. Although she had no contact with the entertainment industry, she could understand this reasoning based on her experience in her previous life.


    "You can act in this drama, but only this once. You cannot get involved in the entertainment industry again. This is the first condition. Since it''s for gaining experience, once is enough. There''s no need to continue if you can''t learn from the first time."


    The olddy was very serious. She was a pampered young miss before getting married, and had a blissful marriage after marrying into the Huo family, until her husband passed away and she lost her son in middle age.


    In order not to let her husband''s efforts go to waste, she had to take on the burden, managing thepany while grooming her eldest grandson. Her vision and caliber were certainly notparable to an average nobledy.


    Rong Dai nodded and immediately agreed. She took this role entirely out of desperation.


    She needed time and experience to understand this world, and also to allow herself time to grow and ept all these changes.


    Besides, she didn''t really like exposing herself to the public eye, so she had no ns to develop a long-term career in the entertainment industry anyway.


    Seeing her nod, the olddy''s frown rxed. "Secondly, you cannot neglect your studies. We women are destined to suffer a lot from the moment we are born, and to receive some unfair treatment."


    "Although the Huo family can give you everything, some things still have to be strived for by yourself. Only when you stand tall can those skeptical voices disappear."


    Rong Dai was moved that Old Madam Huo could think so thoughtfully for her.


    With her experience from her previous life, she understood the meaning behind the olddy''s words all too well.


    Before getting married in her previous life, she was the most favored youngest daughter in the family and did things purely based on personal preferences, simply because her family was powerful.


    But even so, she still encountered a lot of obstacles and doubts on her journey from being a prince''s consort to bing the Empress, even though her maternal family was so formidable. Those favored concubines and consorts still tried to trip her up.


    If not for her own capabilities, plus her family''s power, she would probably have been torn apart early on in the back pce.


    With such great protection from her family, she as an Empress still had to be cautious. Let alone now when she had nothing.


    Her studies were certainly something she could not neglect.


    No matter the era, women still had to be self-reliant and strong. This was what her father had taught her, and what Old Madam Huo was teaching her now.


    "Thank you Grandma, I will." Her face grew serious as she looked steadfastly at Old Madam Huo and agreed very resolutely.


    Only then did the olddy smile and stroke her thick ck hair affectionately. Her voice was full of kindness. "Good child, although Grandma knows you''ve suffered in your heart, you still have to care more about Shaoting. In a marriage, neither can be stubborn. You have to be considerate of each other to be blissful."


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. What true marriage did she have with Shaoting Huo? It was merely a mutual use of each other.


    But she knew she couldn''t say this to Old Madam Huo. She obediently rested her head on the olddy''s knee, speaking gently, "I know, Grandma."

 Chapter 20: My Wife Is Yung Dai

    <h4>Chapter 20</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting returned home from work without paying much attention to Huo Shao Jie''s chattering. Instead, he went upstairs to see his grandmother. Coincidentally, he saw this scene.


    In the small garden, thest glow of the setting sun shone down, coating everything in ayer of golden gauze. The woman''s body was soft as she quietly leaned against grandmother''s knees.


    Even just seeing her back, she was still quiet and beautiful.


    Huo Shao Ting felt a stir in his heart. From when they got married until now, except for her strange changes these past few days, he had never seen this soft side of her before.


    For a moment, he regretted ignoring and neglecting her after they hit a wall on their wedding night.


    "Granny," he couldn''t help calling out in a somewhat hoarse voice.


    Although Rong Dai was puzzled why he woulde back instead of apanying Wen Shi Lan, she could discuss this matter with him. After all, it concerned the Huo family''s reputation.


    "Shao Ting, you''re back! Come over quickly!"


    Grandmother turned her head to look at him with a loving, gentle smile as she beckoned him over.


    Rong Dai also sat up straight, looking at him against the glow of the sunset.


    Huo Shao Ting couldn''t make out her expression, but her exquisite facial contours were beautifully illuminated by the sunset. His heart jumped wildly for a moment as he inexplicably walked over.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were very calm. She didn''t notice the fleeting ripple in the man''s eyes. Seeing him take off his shoes to sit down, she hurriedly shifted over a little.


    Huo Shao Ting had originally wanted to sit next to her. Seeing her move, his body couldn''t help but freeze up a little as the ripple that had just dissipated rose up again. However, his handsome face was still indifferent.


    Rong Dai didn''t think there was anything wrong with her actions. After all, she had always believed Huo Shao Ting liked Wen Shi Lan and only married the original owner by force. It was appropriate for them to maintain some distance.


    She didn''t see it, but grandmother saw it very clearly. She was immediately delighted.


    She hurriedly grabbed Huo Shao Ting''s hand and Rong Dai''s hand, forcibly interlocking them. She looked at the two benevolently.


    When he touched her soft, delicate hand, the ripple that had just disappeared poked its head up again. But Huo Shao Ting''s handsome face was still apathetic.


    Rong Dai didn''t need to say anything. Although she wasn''t used to this kind of touch, she also understood that in the future, this kind of contact between them wouldn''t be umon in front of elders. She might as well get used to epting it early.


    "Thepany doesn''t have that much to do now. From now on, get off work ande home on time. Spend more time with Rong Rong. What newlyweds sleep separately? Tonight, move back in. You two get along well, then I can rest assured."


    Grandmother earnestly exhorted them. She had to add fuel to the fire for this good opportunity.


    "Okay." Before Rong Dai could even respond, Huo Shao Ting already agreed.


    She looked at him in surprise, very puzzled why he would agree to this condition.


    But since he had agreed, she had just asked grandmother for this favor. She couldn''t refute the olddy''s "kindness" the next second. She could only slightly bow her head and nod.


    Grandmother was very satisfied with their performance. Seeing Huo Shao Ting''s expression remain unchanged, she was still worried. She found an excuse to let Rong Dai leave first.


    "Shao Ting, tell Granny, do you like Rong Rong? If you don''t like her, don''t dy such a good girl. Although that Wen girl isn''t great, if you really like her, Granny won''t stop you."


    Huo Shao Ting listened with a dumbfounded expression. Wasn''t it you who insisted I marry Rong Dai? Now what do you mean by this? How did he end up dying that woman?


    Granny, what are you trying to do?


    Moreover, what does this have to do with Wen Shi Lan? Why does even Granny think there''s something between them?


    "I can''t say I like her, but she''s not bad either. As long as she doesn''t act like before, I won''t force her to do anything."


    Huo Shao Ting answered coldly. He was also very confused. Did he like that woman?


    "That''s good. Feelings can be nurtured slowly. Rong Rong is a good girl, more than qualified to be your wife. You have to believe in Granny''s eyesight."


    Grandmother nodded satisfied. If she hadn''t been so adamant this time, there probably wouldn''t have been much hope of this grandson letting her hold her great-grandchild sooner.


    "What about that Wen girl? How do you n to deal with her?"


    Huo Shao Ting felt helpless. What exactly did he do wrong to make them so suspicious?


    "Uncle Wen hinted to me before. I''m just repaying his kindness by helping to take care of her. I''ll have her resign tomorrow. I don''t have any improper thoughts about her. In my eyes, she''s just an acquaintance''s daughter, that''s all."


    It seemed he really needed to find time to make things clear with his family. Even Granny thought this way, the rest of the family probably had simr ideas.


    He disliked dragging things out or exining one by one.


    "That''s good. Rare of you to see things so clearly. Granny thought you really liked that girl. Although she''s pretty good, she''s not suitable for you."


    Grandmother immediately rxed, and the knot in her heart disappeared. She looked at Huo Shao Ting earnestly.


    "Granny, my wife is Rong Dai. No one can change that." Huo Shao Ting also answered seriously.


    No one could ever force him to do anything. It was only up to him whether he was willing or not. He was willing to marry Rong Dai as his wife, so he was prepared to be a good husband to her. Plus, he wasn''t in the habit of having affairs.


    "Alright, since you put it that way, this old woman won''t interfere in your matters anymore. The world is so big. Take advantage of these old bones of mine that can still move and arrange a world tour for me with several olddy friends."


    "I won''t meddle in you young couple''s affairs anymore. But remember, women need to be coaxed more. She can see how sincere you are. If you''re earnest, it won''t go too wrong."


    Grandmother smiled and went downstairs to prepare dinner after the grandfather and grandson finished their heart-to-heart.


    At dinner, Rong Dai only felt an icy cold wall next to her because Huo Shao Ting was sitting beside her. She was a little uneasy even when eating and put down her bowl and chopsticks after just a few bites.


    "Granny, I''m done eating. Eat slowly. I''ll go upstairs first and keep youpanyter."


    She dabbed her mouth with a napkin and got up with a gentle, proper smile. Grandmother didn''t stop her.


    Seeing her leave, Huo Shao Ting''s eating slowed slightly as his eyes darkened. Does this woman dislike him that much?


    Rong Dai let out a long sigh of relief after going upstairs. Although they had reached an agreement and she wasn''t afraid of Huo Shao Ting, that man''s aura was too powerful and cold. Sitting next to him made her very ufortable.

 Chapter 21: She Thinks Too Much

    <h4>Chapter 21</h4>


    "Mrs. Wang, do you need my help?"


    In the bedroom, Mrs. Wang was changing the bedding, taking off the wedding quilt that had been used by the couple for more than three months.


    She just remembered that these two had been married for over three months, so it was time to change the bedding.


    "No need. The old madam just instructed that the young master will move back tonight. Previously, you were unwilling to let us enter your bedroom, so the bedding should have been changed earlier, otherwise it would easily breed bacteria."


    Mrs. Wang smiled, looking at her with unusual eyes.


    Rong Dai felt awkward inside. She of course could see what that look meant, but she had no way to exin anything. She could only hug the script to the desk in the bedroom and sit down to read it.


    "Madam, see if you like this set? If not, I''ll change it for you. When you married the young master, the old madam prepared many red beddings."


    After changing the bedding, Mrs. Wang asked with a smile.


    Rong Dai took a look. The light pink bedding had a soft and gentle color, and the silky texture exuded a hint of ambiguity, just like a shy girl.


    She was instantly frustrated. Mrs. Wang''s implication was too obvious, but what could she say?


    She could naturally see the meaning in those eyes. In the Ho family''s view, it meant that she and Huo Shao Ting were going toplete what a married couple should do.


    She sighed in her heart, and reluctantly squeezed out a smile. "It''s fine, thank you for your hard work Mrs. Wang."


    Mrs. Wang beamed: "I also think it looks very good, very suitable for you and the young master."


    Rong Dai''s head buzzed. She could only force a smile: "Mrs. Wang, I still have things to deal with."


    Mrs. Wang just took it as her being shy, with a face that seemed to say "I understand you." She took away therge red quilt.


    The bedroom became quiet again. Under the warm yellowmplight, Rong Dai couldn''t help but flush slightly looking at the bedspread. The atmosphere...was very well set up.


    She also lost interest in continuing to read the script. She figured Huo Shao Ting definitely wouldn''t be willing to sleep with her, although she wasn''t willing either.


    But there was no other way. She couldn''t go back on her word with the old madam. She was relying on Huo Shao Ting for food and shelter, and she couldn''t let him sleep on the sofa.


    "It looks like I''ll have to suffer." She looked at the sofa in the bedroom. Although it was very soft, she preferred the bedpared to it.


    She was lost in thought sitting in the chair and didn''t notice Huo Shao Ting had already walked in.


    "Shao Jie said you''re going to act?" Huo Shao Ting closed the door and stood behind it, staring straight at her, his tone very cold.


    Rong Dai came back to her senses. Looking up and seeing his indifferent expression, she couldn''t help but sigh deeply. Her path to survival was so difficult!


    "I was just about to discuss this with you. I know that as a daughter-inw of the Ho family, going out like this may affect the Ho family''s reputation, but..."


    "You really want to go?" Huo Shao Ting looked at her with burning eyes, directly interrupting her words.


    He had watched that audition video, and it really surprised him.


    He always thought this woman was emotionless, but the emotional outburst in this clip was very full.


    It made him shocked and very confused. He was eager to know the answer. Why did she agree before marriage but was so cold afterwards?


    If she had refused before marriage, he certainly wouldn''t have forced her, and Granny wouldn''t have forced her either.


    But she had agreed, and so did he.


    He thought that even if there was no feeling between them, they could get along respectfully. That wouldn''t be so bad.


    But her behaviour after marriage, he couldn''t figure out at all.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, looking at him earnestly and nodding: "I do want to go very much, so I wanted to discuss it with you."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t speak, just kept looking at her. Rong Dai felt hairy under his gaze and very ufortable all over.


    But she had endured all kinds of situations in her past life. Even when facing something she feared or dreaded, she had cultivated the ability to remain calm.


    So she looked back at Huo Shao Ting and waited for his reply.


    Seeing her so calm andposed, with a serious look, Huo Shao Ting thought of what Huo Shao Jie had just told him - that she needed a space to free herself.


    Perhaps the Ho family had put a lot of pressure on her.


    "I agree," he said in a low voice, then got up to take off his suit, preparing to take a shower.


    Rong Dai saw that he agreed so readily, and also saw him start to undress. She was instantly wary, looking at him guardedly: "You don''t have any conditions?"


    Huo Shao Ting turned his head to look at her, his movements to unbutton his shirt paused, and his voice rose dangerously: "What conditions do you think I would propose?"


    Rong Dai swallowed and looked slightly panicked and at a loss.


    She knew that there were certain marital duties, but the rules here were different from her previous life. Women were no longer attachments, but had the right to choose.


    So for that kind of thing, it had to be consensual right? Besides, didn''t he like Wen Shi Lan?


    It was toote when she realized everything in her past life. She didn''t want to give herself to a man she was unfamiliar with and didn''t like either.


    But now she was dependent on others, if Huo Shao Ting really proposed some unspeakable conditions, she was afraid she''d have no choice but to agree.


    Seeing her look so guarded, Huo Shao Ting found it amusing. Did this woman really think he was so desperate?


    Using that to coerce her into sleeping with him? If he really needed a woman, it was just a matter of saying it.


    But he didn''t like it, and extremely disliked coercion.


    "I''m going to take a shower. What do you think I want to do to you?" He said in a low voice, then turned to take off his suit and walked into the bathroom.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    So she was overthinking it?


    It made sense. Although Wen Shi Lan was a prim and properdy, she kept her figure well maintained. Being able to enjoy his favor, she must be quite skilled in certain matters. If he had any needs, it made more sense for him to look for Wen Shi Lan.


    Hearing the sound of watering from the bathroom, she finally breathed a sigh of relief, feeling somewhat amused at herself for judging him.


    It seemed that she didn''t need to worry.


    Huo Shao Ting had no interest in her. Even sharing the same bedroom, she didn''t need to be concerned something might happen.


    This man had quite decent morals.


    She smiled wryly, thinking she had made a mountain out of a molehill. Although Granny and Huo Shao Ting had agreed to this acting thing, she still had to get past Mother-inw. Otherwise her previous efforts would be wasted.


    But Mother-inw was not easy to deal with. She''d have to think of another way.


    However, before Rong Dai could think about how to bring it up with Mother-inw, that audition video was already passed into Mother-inw''s hands.

 Chapter 22: Die Before it鈥檚 too Late

    <h4>Chapter 22</h4>


    "Oh, Mrs. Huo, isn''t this your newly married daughter-inw? Her acting skills...did she graduate from a professional acting school? She''s really quite amazing."


    Mrs. Huo Lu Jing was originally nning to go out and have fun tonight with these young madams, and had already told her family she wouldn''t be home for dinner.


    She had been quite satisfied with Rong Dai''s performance the other day, and was thinking that when she had time she could slowly teach her, so that in the future she could get along well with Shaoting and give her a grandson soon, which would also give her husband an ount.


    But she didn''t expect that just when she had let out a sigh of relief, in the blink of an eye Rong Dai had gotten herself into such a disgraceful situation!


    She was the dignified big daughter-inw of the Huo family, yet she went to audition for a y!


    Wasn''t this disgracing the Huo family?


    Lu Jing''s face was ugly. Among these so-called sisters here, not all were real sisters either, at least Madam Jiang Yang Man was not.


    Her expression was unpleasant. No matter how bad a daughter-inw was, she was still one of her Huo family''s people, and it wasn''t these outsiders'' ce to gossip.


    "This is a y produced by my son. There''s no one in the entertainment circle he thinks highly of, so he just asked his sister-inw for help. Whether she''s professionally trained or not isn''t important, as long as my Huo family is happy."


    Yang Man was rendered speechless by her retort, an almost imperceptible sneer of disdain on her beautiful face. The two women looked about to break into verbal sparring when Lu Jing''s phone rang.


    "Sorry, you guys have fun, tonight''s bill is on me." Seeing the caller ID disy, Lu Jing forced a smile on her face, picked up her purse and left the club.


    "Go home!" Once in the private car, Lu Jing''s face darkened. She didn''t hurry to answer the iing call that rang again.


    The driver didn''t ask any questions and drove silently.


    "Hello, Shi Lan, why are you suddenly calling me sote?" She asked gently.


    Compared to Rong Dai, she disliked Wen Shi Lan even more.


    On the other end of the phone, Wen Shi Lan had no idea she had been crossed off in Mrs. Huo''s heart. Holding her phone, she spoke worriedly, "Auntie Lu, I just received a video that is really...I don''t know how to tell you, I''m a little worried about Brother Shaoting."


    Although displeased, Lu Jing remained calm andposed. She could see through the intentions of these youngsters.


    She didn''t need to guess Wen Shi Lan''s motive.


    "What video? I was just about to go home, it''s not toote yet. Why don''t youe out and we can have a drink?"


    Hearing this, Wen Shi Lan was overjoyed and immediately agreed.


    After hanging up, Lu Jing''s face turned icy cold. Although she didn''t know what Rong Dai was up to, Wen Shi Lan had to be dealt with. Her obsessive pursuit of her son was endless trouble.


    After thinking for a moment, she called Huo Shaoting.


    Rong Dai was looking at a script at the desk. Huo Shaoting was still showering in the bathroom. Hearing the phone ring on the desk, she looked up.


    Seeing the caller ID, her heart thumped wildly. The ringtone kept ringing frantically. Deep down, Rong Dai couldn''t help feeling nervous, wondering why her mother-inw was calling Shaoting sote.


    It seemed she had to tell her mother-inw about this as soon as possible, lest it became even more troublesome when she found out herself.


    "Shaoting, your mom called."


    Hearing the water stop in the bathroom, and seeing his phone had three missed calls already, Rong Dai went over and knocked on the bathroom door.


    Just after she finished speaking, the bathroom door opened, and the man came out wearing nothing but a towel!


    Rong Dai''s eyes widened in shock as her fair neck immediately turned red. She hurriedly turned around and awkwardly pointed at the phone on the desk, "Um...your phone rang, I just wanted to let you know."


    What if Huo Shaoting misunderstood what she had just done?


    She couldn''t help worrying in her heart, after all this was quite awkward.


    "Mm."


    Huo Shaoting didn''t feel there was anything wrong with his state of undress at all. Looking at her flustered, turned back, he gave her a cold grunt in response and took the phone into the bedroom balcony.


    Rong Dai really wanted to hear what he said to his mother, but she felt it would be a little immoral to eavesdrop. Watching the man''s preupied back as he spoke on the phone, she nced at the bathroom and quickly went in to lock the door.


    She should hurry up and bathe while he was on the phone, so they wouldn''t feel awkwardter.


    Although very different from her past life, these modern conveniences were still veryfortable.


    In her past life, even as an empress she didn''t get to bathe every day, because it was too troublesome, so there was a set quota.


    After getting the hang of things these days, she could now use them very proficiently.


    She had just taken off her clothes and was about to throw them in the hamper when she happened to see Huo Shaoting''s discarded clothes, with his briefs tantly hanging on one side.


    Unconsciously recalling the man''s sturdy, healthy figure just now with water droplets trailing down his body, although his face didn''t have the bewitching handsomeness of the Emperor, he was still quite handsome and refined, especially his physique, which was truly excellent.


    "Going to die! Rong Dai what are you thinking about?"


    Suddenly returning to her senses, Rong Dai realized she had actually been reminiscing about Huo Shaoting''s physique, and her face turned red with embarrassment.


    She hadn''t expected that after more than ten years of a tranquil heart, tonight she was almost stirred by a younger man.


    Hastily turning on the shower, the warm water pouring over her skin finally steadied her racing heart.


    Worried about Huo Shaoting still being in the bedroom, Rong Dai washed up hastily. After drying off, she hurriedly put on her pajamas and walked out with a calm expression.


    Coming out of the bathroom, she saw Huo Shaoting still standing on the balcony. In the yellowish light she could see his slightly knitted brows.


    Just then Huo Shaoting happened to turn and nce at her, and Rong Dai''s heart started racing again.


    Could it be that her mother-inw had already seen that video?


    A warning bell went off in her mind. Last time at the auction was just like this - she had just returned home and didn''t have a chance to exin before her mother-inw and sister-inw already knew.


    In her mind she automatically imagined hundreds of possibilities, but Huo Shaoting''s gaze just indifferently swept over her before withdrawing, giving her no clues at all.


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped erratically. Hearing a knock on the bedroom door, she had no choice but to open it.


    As soon as she opened the door she saw Huo Mei Shu standing there with her arms crossed, a trace of imperceptible mocking disdain on her beautiful face.


    "Mei Shu, you''re back? Your brother is on the phone, if you have anything to discuss..."


    Not letting her finish, Huo Mei Shu interrupted, "I didn''te to find brother, I came to warn you - doing such a disgraceful thing as acting, don''t disgrace our Huo family. Give up that thought as soon as possible!"


    Hearing her rude words, Rong Dai sighed. This matter had leaked out after all. She had underestimated how fast news spread in this modern age.


    Since the sister-inw knew, her mother-inw probably also knew.


    With a wry smile she nced back at Huo Shaoting''s silhouette. Helpless, she thought that therger a family business was, the more they valued face and propriety.

 Chapter 23: Video Leak

    <h4>Chapter 23</h4>


    "Huo Mei Shu, you are really bing more and more ill-mannered! Rong Dai is your elder sister-inw, how can you speak to her like that?"


    Before Rong Dai could even respond, she heard the reprimanding voice of Huo Shao Jie, and saw the anger on his handsome face.


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression stiffened slightly, she had not expected her second brother to overhear what she had just said.


    "An actress, so she''s just someone I can insult together with my second brother." Huo Mei Shu was displeased, and turned to leave.


    "Apologize to elder sister-inw!" Huo Shao Jie grabbed her arm to stop her, his voice cold and authoritative.


    Rong Dai watched in shock, unsure of what was happening.


    Although Huo Mei Shu''s words were excessive, she did not want to argue with a girl in her twenties over this. After all, counting her past and present lives, she was older than the girl''s grandmother.


    However, she had not expected Huo Shao Jie to get angry and force Huo Mei Shu to apologize to her.


    "Why should I apologize to her? Isn''t what I said the truth?" Huo Mei Shu was not one to back down either, not the least afraid of Huo Shao Jie, she struggled and red at him defiantly.


    Rong Dai was afraid this would disturb the peace in the family, especially if it caused a rift between the siblings, she would be the one suffering.


    After all, they were blood siblings, bound tightly together, while she was just an outsider.


    Moreover, she would not be staying with the Huo family for long, just about a year. She did not need to make trouble for herself.


    "It''s fine, she''s just worried." She quickly went over and pulled Huo Shao Jie''s hand off, seeing that Huo Mei Shu''s arm had been grabbed red.


    "Don''t pretend to be kind here! The Huo family has never wronged you, stop embarrassing the Huo family!"


    Huo Mei Shu scoffed coldly, her beautiful eyes looking at Rong Dai with ill intent.


    Huo Shao Jie was extremely frustrated, giving Rong Dai a helpless look, "Elder sister-inw, you''re spoiling her like this, she will just be more unruly."


    But Rong Dai just smiled, no matter how unruly she became, it was only because she was an outsider.


    Moreover, she would not be staying at the Huo household for long anyway, just about a year. She did not need to make trouble for herself.


    All these thoughts shed through her mind, she steadied herself and gave Huo Shao Jie a helpless sigh, "It''s fine, she''s just worried."


    Huo Shao Jie felt helpless, he had not expected the footage of Rong Dai''s audition today to be leaked online.


    With the inte so advanced, even if he tried to do PR control now, it would probably be toote.


    The main issue was that he and Lu Ye had put in a lot of effort into this drama over the past two years, and there had already been insider gossip spreading within the industry. Many people were anticipating it, so some were bound to want to dig out first-hand news.


    He had been careless about this.


    "Was there an issue with my audition today? I just saw Mom calling Shao Ting."


    Rong Dai asked him, seeing how serious Huo Shao Jie looked, he must havee to see her specifically, otherwise it was too much of a coincidence to run into Huo Mei Shu warning her at the door.


    "Yes, I have to apologize to elder sister-inw about this matter. There had already been gossip spreading within the industry about this drama, I should have taken more precautions today. It''s probably toote now to do PR control. Elder sister-inw may see a lot of false news over the next few days, don''t take it to heart."


    Hearing the gravity in his tone, although Rong Dai did not know how much impact this would have, she understood that if it brought negative publicity to the Huo family, she probably would not be able to take on this role.


    Even if grandmother and Shao Ting had agreed, mother-inw''s side, and even other branches of the Huo family would probably not agree.


    "Eldest brother, I did not handle this matter well."


    Before she could respond, she saw Huo Shao Jie look past her.


    Rong Dai also turned to look, seeing the man had changed into a te gray silk robe, looking especially cold and aloof.


    "Hmm, I don''t want to hear any unpleasant rumors."


    He only uttered a light acknowledgment, his gaze falling upon Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai felt a chill down her spine, her whole body tense, as though facing a formidable enemy.


    Oblivious to her unease, Huo Shao Jie took his eldest brother''s words to heart. He understood his eldest brother very well.


    If this matter brought any negative impact to elder sister-inw, the drama he had nned would probably end up stillborn.


    "Eldest brother, elder sister-inw, please rest early. I''ll head back first." Huo Shao Jie said and hurried back to his room. Before he could check Weibo, Lu Ye called.


    "Are you going to sleep in the corridor?"


    Huo Shao Ting turned to enter the bedroom, noticing Rong Dai standing there motionless. He couldn''t help but frown at her, his tone cold, "Are you going to sleep in the hallway?"


    Snapping out of her thoughts, Rong Dai hurriedly walked over.


    After shutting the bedroom door, she looked hesitantly at Huo Shao Ting''s back, wanting to ask if mother-inw knew about this matter. She was almost certain the answer was yes.


    "Shao Ting, should I give Mom a call and ask for her opinion?" She still asked tentatively, just rephrasing it.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was cold, he poured a small ss of red wine from the liquor cab and took a sip before looking at her, "Is her opinion very important?"


    Rong Dai faltered, how could it not be important? She was the mother-inw!


    Not understanding his meaning, she still nodded.


    "Then call her." The man paid her no heed, taking the wine ss out to the balcony, leaving her a cold, aloof back.


    Rong Dai sighed inwardly, grandmother asking them to live together really was a dreadful idea.


    This would likely bring him a lot of trouble, at least it would be hard to exin to Wen Shi Lan.


    Back when she had be Empress, although she had to tolerate the Emperor getting more and more concubines in the harem, she would be sleepless every time he took in a new concubine, until she eventually fell ill.


    She knew that feeling of heart-wrenching agony.


    Wen Shi Lan already harbored great hostility towards her. If Huo Shao Ting could not provide a satisfactory exnation, it would strain their rtionship.


    If Huo Shao Ting took it out on her instead, she would be the one suffering.


    It seemed the meeting with Wen Shi Lan could not be dyed any further. Otherwise, before resolving this issue of taking on the role, she might end up offending Huo Shao Ting, making things even more difficult.


    As these thoughts shed through her mind, she steadied herself and called mother-inw Lu Zheng''s number.


    But the call was busy. She could only wait about 20 minutes before calling again, this time hearing Lu Zheng''s somewhat gloomy voice.


    "Mom, when will you be back?"


    Hearing the call connect, Rong Dai immediately put on a smile, her voice soft and gentle.


    On the other end, Lu Zheng was feeling rather annoyed, but her son''s words still rang in her ears. She could only suppress her displeasure.


    "You still know to call me? After just one day without me at home, you''ve created such a disgraceful incident!"


    As expected, she knew.


    Upon hearing mother-inw''s tone, Rong Dai sighed inwardly. She had not expected that as an Empress in her past life, she would sink to this point in this life.

 Chapter 24: A Beautiful Man in the Shower

    <h4>Chapter 24</h4>


    ��Mom, can you please listen to my exnation regarding this matter?�� Rong Dai made her tone very gentle, without any displeasure or anger.


    How could she be angry now? She was eating, drinking, and living at the Huo family currently.


    ��Since Shao Ting has already agreed to this, I have nothing more to say. But this is the only exception, if it wasn''t produced by Shao Jie, I would never have agreed!��


    Lu Zheng spoke firmly. Just thinking about this daughter-inw made her feel terrible.


    Hearing her words, Rong Dai instinctively nced at Huo Shao Ting drinking wine on the balcony. So he had talked to mother-inw about this?


    The gratitude in her heart for this man grew a bit more, and it made her even more determined to bring about good things between him and Wen Shi Lan.


    ��Thank you, Mom.�� Since Huo Shao Ting had already exined, she didn''t need to say much more, just said in a sweet soft voice.


    Lu Zheng could hear her respectfulness, and felt a little better: ��Don��t thank me so soon, if you get into any scandals and affect Shao Ting, I''ll be the first one who won''t let you off!��


    Rong Dai hurriedly responded, and only after repeatedly reassuring did she hang up the phone. Her whole body felt like she just went through a battle.


    These modern women were also not easy to deal with.


    Being an empress was not easy, and modern women were also not easy to handle.


    She calmed herself down, and seeing Huo Shao Ting still standing on the balcony, she thought about it and still went over to stand outside the ss door and said, "Thank you for exining to Mom. Um... you can take the bed, I��ll take the sofa. If you need me to exin anything to Miss Wen, feel free to call me anytime."


    Rong Dai felt that she still needed to remind him about this matter again. She didn''t want to damage Huo Shao Ting''s rtionship.


    No matter whether the original owner had feelings for Huo Shao Ting or not, she could be certain that she had no thoughts about this man.


    Also, she didn''t have the habit of stealing someone''s lover. In her past life, she was kept in the dark and it made her suffer for a lifetime.


    Huo Shao Ting was just about to speak after hearing the first half of her words, but his face sunk again after hearing the second half.


    Does this woman have to mention Wen Shi Lan every time she speaks?


    Was she blind? Which eye of hers saw that he had anything going on with Wen Shi Lan?


    Just as he was about to speak, the phone rang again.


    The caller ID showed that it was Wen Shi Lan.


    Seeing the name on the screen, Rong Dai immediately said, "Then answer the call first, and exin things well to Miss Wen."


    Without giving Huo Shao Ting a chance to speak, she swiftly went to the closet to grab two thin nkets, took one of the pillows from the bed to the sofa, simply made it, then lied down to sleep.


    When Huo Shao Ting came in after finishing the call, he saw that she was already asleep on the sofa, with her back facing him.


    Huo Shao Ting felt stifled, as if he was punched.


    He really couldn''t understand this woman anymore. Then he put down his wine ss, and turned to go to bed out of frustration.


    Rong Dai was actually not asleep. She wanted to hear what Huo Shao Ting would say to Wen Shi Lan, but the balcony was some distance from the sofa in the bedroom, and the ss door blocked the sound well, so she couldn''t hear anything at all.


    Hearing Huo Shao Ting go to bed, she could only close her eyes to sleep.


    ...


    In the morning, warm sunshine shone through the curtains, lighting up the room hazily.


    The noisy cicadas'' cries of summer, Rong Dai slowly woke up from her sleep, still groggy. She closed her eyes and groped her way into the bathroom, automatically squeezed toothpaste and started brushing her teeth.


    Seeing Rong Dai standing at the sink brushing her teeth with her eyes closed, Huo Shao Ting who was showering in the bathroom was stunned for a moment.


    Was this woman so muddleheaded?


    A few secondster, a hint of amusement shed through his eyes. He turned off the shower, wrapped a towel around his waist, and quietly walked up behind her.


    Seeing Rong Dai brushing her teeth with her eyes closed, the smile in the man''s eyes grew deeper.


    His gaze fell inch by inch on her cheek. This woman was so beautiful, her sleepy look carried someziness and naivety. His heart inadvertently rippled.


    "That sleepy?" He lightly bent down, leaned to her ear, his voice low and attractive, asked her yfully.


    The scent of his shower gel, and his own refreshing aroma overwhelmed her. Rong Dai who was brushing her teeth suddenly tensed up!


    She opened her eyes wide, the lingering sleepiness disappeared instantly. She stared wide-eyed at the man behind her in the mirror!


    The lean muscr chest glittering with water droplets, his hair still wet, he was obviously just showering in the bathroom, and she had stumbled in...


    Rong Dai was dumbfounded, stiffly and instinctively turned around to look at him nkly, her mindpletely numb and nk.


    This... how could she have forgotten that she slept in the same room as Huo Shao Tingst night!


    Her whole body froze, eyes bulging in shock. The toothbrush in her hand dropped with a "plop", and she involuntarily swallowed the toothpaste in her mouth.


    The cool mint went straight to her stomach, she shuddered, instantly sobering up.


    "Satisfied with what you see?" Huo Shao Ting had been watching her every move, seeing her shocked and dazed expression, the amusement in his deep eyes grew deeper.


    He would make this woman behave even if it was thest thing he did!


    "I... I''m so sorry!"


    Rong Dai''s face was beet red. She was so shocked that she reflexively bowed and apologized in the manner of her past life, then rushed out of the bathroom like she had just seen a ghost.


    Bang!


    The loud m of the door. Huo Shao Ting watched her flustered and awkward manner, and was in a very good mood, he didn''t dwell on Rong Dai''s strange bow and apology.


    Once out of the bathroom, Rong Dai wished she could find a crack in the ground and disappear into it. How could she have done something so rude?


    And just now... did she stare for a long time?


    Rong Dai was ashamed and angry at herself, scolding herself for being muddleheaded.


    She was so rigorous in her past life, yet had let her guard down aftering to this modern world, leading to such embarrassment.


    After a short while, Huo Shao Ting came out of the bathroom still wrapped in a towel. In the dim light of the bedroomst night, Rong Dai only got a rough look at his figure.


    But now in daylight, every inch of the hard, chiseled lines of his waist and abdomen could be seen clearly, exuding strength. Water droplets rolled down his contours. Rong Dai''s mouth went dry.


    "I really didn''t mean to just now."


    She apologized in panic again, but Huo Shao Ting just pursed his lips and said nothing. The atmosphere in the bedroom grew even more awkward.


    "I''ll go wash up first." She lowered her head and hurried into the bathroom, quickly shut and locked the door.


    Her actions were swift and continuous, without any hesitation.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the closed bathroom door, the corners of his mouth hooked up in an indistinct smile. He opened the wardrobe, got dressed properly, and went downstairs out of the bedroom.


    Rong Dai stood in the bathroom for a long time. When brushing her teeth again, she couldn''t help but recall the scene from earlier as she looked in the mirror, her cheeks ming red.


    Even as an empress, she had never experienced such embarrassment, especially given her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting. This was just shameful!


    But what was done could not be undone. She could only hope Huo Shao Ting would forget about this incident quickly, otherwise she wouldn''t know how to face him living under the same roof in the future.


    After sshing cold water on her face, she calmed down andforted herself - treat it as just an exquisitely painted picture of a handsome man fresh from his bath.


    Last night she had called her mother-inw about taking the role, but such matters still needed to be addressed face-to-face as well as soon as possible. Right now she didn''t have time to ponder irrelevant things. What she needed was to earn money and survive!

 Chapter 25: Meet my Rival

    <h4>Chapter 25</h4>


    When Rong Dai mentally prepared herself and went downstairs, she did not see Huo Shao Ting''s figure. She quietly asked Mrs. Wang. After finding out that Huo Shao Ting had already gone to thepany, she finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Sister-inw." At this time, Huo ShaoJie also came down, followed closely by Huo Mei Shu.


    Rong Dai responded with a sound and also greeted the two, but Huo Mei Shu just sat down arrogantly to have breakfast without any intention of acknowledging her.


    She did not mind either, and was about to ask Mrs. Wang when she saw mother-inwing down the stairs too.


    She immediately sat properly, thinking about how to speak.


    Lu Zheng''s face was still a little gloomy. The olddy usually had breakfast in her bedroom, so Rong Dai could only deal with her mother-inw herself.


    "Mom, have some hot porridge." Rong Dai immediately served a bowl of porridge in front of Lu Zheng''s seat, and said gently.


    Lu Zheng knew what she was going to do. She didn''t say anything, sat down, took the spoon and started drinking the porridge.


    Seeing her gloomy face, and Rong Dai''s cautious appearance, Huo ShaoJie couldn''t help but speak up: "Mom, my elder brother and grandma have already agreed to sister-inw about this matter, don''t pressure sister-inw anymore."


    Hearing this, Rong Dai was extremely anxious immediately!


    Was this young uncle deliberately creating trouble for her?


    It was one thing for her to speak up, and another thing for him to speak up in mother-inw''s heart!


    Sure enough, mother-inw''s face became even more gloomy. She had to remedy the situation quickly: "I didn''t discuss this with grandma and mom in advance, it was my fault."


    "So you know it was your fault, I thought you didn''t care about the entire Huo family at all. If I didn''t know better, I''d have thought we desperately insisted on marrying you into our family. Walking around with a stinky face all day, who are you trying to show it to?"


    Huo Mei Shu suddenly ridiculed her, mmed down her chopsticks, and directly got up and left.


    Rong Dai felt embarrassed inwardly. She didn''t expect the original owner to be so hated that even a girl in her twenties couldn''t stand her.


    Lu Zheng understood her daughter''s temperament. Rong Dai was also very respectful of her during the first few days after she entered the door, but she had eaten cold face from her several times. It was not surprising that this girl with a bad temper would mock her now.


    "I''ve already talked about this matter once, don''t mention it a second time. If you dare to do anything inappropriate outside, don''t me me for not warning you in advance."


    Lu Zheng''s face was cold, she nced at Rong Dai, took a sip of porridge, and her eyes fell on Huo ShaoJie again: "Settle those things online as soon as possible, it��s not good for your elder brother''s reputation."


    Huo ShaoJie didn''t expect things to go so smoothly. He quickly responded, and Rong Dai was also relieved.


    "Huo ShaoJie, take a look at the rubbish written online! She haspletely disgraced the Huo family''s face! Mom, you actually agreed to let her go to that kind of ce?"


    Just as it had just quieted down in the dining room for a few seconds, Huo Mei Shu came in with a dark face, heavily putting the tablet on the dining table.


    Now Rong Dai hadpletely lost her appetite.


    "Huo Mei Shu, do you still have any manners? Shouting at your elders at home?!" Huo ShaoJie was also a little annoyed, staring sharply at this sister.


    "That''s enough. Your second brother will take care of these things himself. What are you getting involved for? Focus on preparing for your trip abroad!"


    Although Lu Zheng was displeased, she had already promised her son about this matter and could not go back on her word. She red at Huo Mei Shu and continued drinking porridge.


    Huo Mei Shu scoffed, and left with the tablet.


    After breakfast, Rong Dai awkwardly went online with her phone to check thements fromizens. The words were extremely vicious!


    Saying that the young mistress of the Huo family was destitute and forced to take up acting for a living.


    Even more hateful were those saying that she, the sister-inw, was not there to help the young uncle, but that there was some intrigue between them.


    Even such absurd rumors came out!


    Rong Dai frowned, very unhappy inwardly. Although she really wanted to retaliate, she didn��t understand things online either, and could only wait for Huo ShaoJie to handle it.


    She couldn''t concentrate on reading the script. Thinking that this might affect Huo Shao Ting, which would also indirectly affect his rtionship with Wen Shi Lan.


    Thinking that she still had time, she might as well ask Wen Shi Lan out to meet and take the opportunity to exin things clearly for Huo Shao Ting, to avoid any misunderstandings between them. Otherwise she really would have to roll up her bedding and leave the Huo family!


    She flipped through her phonebook, and didn''t have Wen Shi Lan''s number. She dialed the number disyed when Huo Shao Ting answered the callst night, based on her memory.


    "May I ask who''s calling?" Wen Shi Lan''s voice came from the other end of the phone. She sounded a little aggrieved and choked up.


    Could it be that she was unhappy with Huo Shao Ting?


    Rong Dai immediately became nervous in her heart, took a deep breath quietly, and made her words sound as gentle as possible: "Is this Miss Wen? I''m Rong Dai."


    Hearing this, Wen Shi Lan''s eyes were about to spout fire!


    This cheap woman! She actually still had the nerve to call her!? Was it to mock her?!


    Wen Shi Lan''s face was ferocious with anger, but she suppressed her emotions to calm herself down: "What do you want?"


    Hearing her unfriendly tone, Rong Dai sighed helplessly in her heart: "It''s like this, there are some things I want to tell you in person. I wonder if you are free now? How about we meet somewhere?"


    Wen Shi Lan had a stomach full of anger with nowhere to vent. Since the other party hade knocking, she had no reason not to ept!


    She immediately smiled: "Sure, I also have some things I want to say to you."


    She didn''t expect this insignificant Rong Dai to have such great abilities, to make Shao Ting fire her from thepany!


    She had put in so much effort and dedication back then to be able to stay by his side!


    And now, just because of this cheap woman, her efforts had all been in vain. How could she possibly let this cheap woman off easy?!


    She then named a ce. After Rong Dai wrote it down, she went back to the bedroom to change her clothes. Just as she was about to leave, she remembered that she didn''t have a penny on her.


    Since she was the one who wanted to exin things to Wen Shi Lan, if they ate something, she really shouldn''t make others pay, right?


    She thought about it, went upstairs to get 1,000 yuan from Huo ShaoJie, and recorded it in her phone ledger before leaving.


    She arrived at the destination early. This was the first time she went out alone. Looking at this bustling metropolis, she was full of novelty and yearning for the future.


    She waited for about half an hour before Wen Shi Lan leisurely showed upte. She left a small box at the front desk which Rong Dai didn''t pay much attention to.


    Wen Shi Lan followed the waiter over. Seeing Rong Dai sitting gracefully in the private room, she was furious again!


    She didn''t expect a destitute cheap woman to be able to gain the favor of the Huo family, and bepletely unharmed after she went through so much troublest night!


    Wen Shi Lan didn''t know that her little tricks had long been seen through by Lu Zheng. Last night when she was talking to Madam Huo, Lu Zheng had her phone on, allowing Huo Shao Ting to hear their entire conversation.


    Huo Shao Ting was not one of those impulsive youths in their twenties. His methods were ruthless and decisive, with astute intelligence. Of course he understood the meaning behind Lu Zheng''s actions, so he fired Wen Shi Lan first thing in the morning when he got to thepany.

 Chapter 26: To solve the Problem.

    <h4>Chapter 26</h4>


    "Miss Wen, please take a seat. Let me know if you would like something to drink," Rong Dai said as she stood up politely when she saw someonee in, hoping that the other party would not dwell on her previous rashness, so as not to affect the agreement between her and Huo Shao Ting.


    Seeing her courteous manner, a hint of doubt shed through Wen Shi Lan''s eyes, but she did not take Rong Dai seriously at all.


    She casually tossed the hundred-thousand-dor bag onto the booth, and looked at Rong Dai disdainfully. With arms crossed, she sat down, "No need for drinks. I, Wen Shi Lan, haven''t fallen so far that I need your charity. You have to rely on someone else for a living, can you even afford to treat me?"


    Rong Dai''s smile did not diminish. She remained as gentle and elegant as before. Unfortunately, she did not recognize the value of that bag, otherwise she would have known that Wen Shi Lan was mocking her from head to toe.


    Since she had asked to meet Wen Shi Lan, Rong Dai was already prepared to be ridiculed by the other party.


    Who could me her for scolding Wen Shi Lan without realizing the situation after transmigrating?


    Which woman would not feel dissatisfied and wary when her husband stood up for another woman?


    She did not think she was wrong to say those things at the time. She just did not analyze the situation well and was too reckless, which put her in a passive position now.


    Since Wen Shi Lan and Huo Shao Ting were in love, he must have discussed it with her before agreeing to marry the original owner.


    Rong Dai had not thoroughly researched Wen Shi Lan''s family background, but being associated with such an affluent family like the Huo''s, her background was certainly not bad.


    If Wen Shi Lan had disagreed initially, with Huo Shao Ting''s capabilities, he certainly could have persuaded the olddy.


    Even if the olddy insisted, Huo Shao Ting could have simply refused to marry the original owner, so what could the olddy have done?


    Since he agreed, he should not cling on and make a clean break, so he could live with a clear conscience.


    By clinging on like this, it made the original owner seem at fault.


    Rong Dai not only looked down on Wen Shi Lan, but also on Huo Shao Ting.


    Although she was grateful to Huo Shao Ting for helping her resolve the matter graciously, it did not affect her judgment of him.


    If he did not agree, why didn''t Wen Shi Lan strive for their rtionship herself?


    Now he had forced Rong Dai into a dilemma, having to conceal things from the Huo family while pretending with Huo Shao Ting, all while trying to make a living.


    Looking at it this way, her thirty years as Empress seemed to be in vain. Her pce tactics were of no use here.


    What authority as Empress, what dignity as Empress, would be suicidal madness here.


    Various helplessness and depressed feelings shed through her mind. Although she was meeting Wen Shi Lan to reconcile, there were some things she could notpromise on.


    It was absolutely impossible for her to bow her head to a modern woman, having never bowed her head to anyone in her past life despite the dire circumstances then.


    Although Rong Dai had a smile on her face, she was quite disdainful in her heart.


    She was meeting Wen Shi Lan to help Huo Shao Ting resolve their misunderstanding, but that did not mean she would bow to Wen Shi Lan.


    "Miss Wen must like Mr. Huo a lot?" She preferred looking into the other person''s eyes when speaking.


    Eyes were the window to the soul, and even subtle changes in expression could reveal some of their thoughts.


    Moreover, she knew her strength. When her eyes took on a gentle look, they could be charming, but staring at someone like this would put great pressure on them.


    Although she was here to reconcile with Wen Shi Lan, it did not mean she would bow to Wen Shi Lan.


    Having never bowed to anyone in such dire straits in her past life, she certainly would not bow to a modern woman now.


    That was absolutely impossible.


    Hearing this, Wen Shi Lan looked angrily at her, with jealousy mixed in her gaze. "Isn''t that obvious? I grew up with Shao Ting like childhood sweethearts since we were young. If it wasn''t for your dead mother saving his grandmother, do you think you could have married Shao Ting?"


    Seeing Wen Shi Lan fly into a rage after just one sentence, Rong Dai was even more disdainful in her heart.


    No wonder the olddy looked down on such poor upbringing.


    With Wen Shi Lan��s temperament, she would have died within three days of entering the imperial harem in her past life.


    "What Miss Wen said is indeed a fact," Rong Dai said lightly with a faint smile, speaking unhurriedly in a gentle and soft voice.


    "But it can''t all be med on me either. Since Mr. Huo was willing to marry me back then, Miss Wen, you should have known. If you like him so much, why didn''t you stop it?"


    She smiled and asked Wen Shi Lan in return, not in a hurry to state her purpose for meeting her.


    In her past life, although she deeply loved the Emperor, she had no choice but to personally select beauties to serve him intimately in the harem. That was due to her status and the customs of that era which did not allow her to monopolize the Emperor alone.


    However, it was different in this modern era with its emphasis on monogamy and one husband one wife, despite the existence of divorce.


    Since they were in love, they could have strived for their rtionship.


    In her opinion, it was foolish and vicious to give up without fighting for it, yet be unwilling to let go and take revenge on others instead.


    Although Rong Dai did not inherit many of the original owner''s memories, no woman married without hopes of living well.


    How could Huo Shao Ting and Wen Shi Lan not bear some responsibility for the original owner''s silent death at the hospital?


    So in Rong Dai''s eyes, all three of them were at fault here.


    One should not have married without rifying the situation, one should not cling on after marrying someone else, and one should not torment others after letting go.


    Rong Dai''s counter-question left Wen Shi Lan speechless as her face turned pale and ominous.


    Anyway, there were no outsiders here, so she did not need to pretend in front of this slut!


    She had also thought Shao Ting would marry her, but when she returned, he was already married to this shameless woman, and even held the wedding.


    How could she stop it?


    "So you used such great tactics, forcing Shao Ting when I was away, using his grandmother as a shield. Now you''re saying these things, aren''t you shameless!" Wen Shi Lan said coldly, looking at Rong Dai with disgust as if looking at rotten meat in a sewer.


    Rong Dai did not expect there to be such twists and turns, but she was not here today to dwell on past matters, rather to resolve the issues.


    "So I''m here today to resolve this with you, Miss Wen."


    Wen Shi Lan looked at her puzzled. "Resolve what? Do you think I''ll really give way to you? And be a disgraceful mistress?"


    Rong Dai could not helpughing inside. What''s the difference between your current situation and being a disgraceful mistress?

 Chapter 27: There are No Feelings

    <h4>Chapter 27</h4>


    Wen Shi Lan looked at Rong Dai''s indifferent appearance, extremely annoyed!


    "Rong Dai! Don''t think you can be fearless just because you married into the Huo family! You are no help to Shao Ting at all! How long do you think you can stay in the Huo family? How much longer will Grandma Huo protect you?! Don''t overestimate yourself here!"


    Thinking of how she was fired by Huo Shao Ting today, and what he had said before, looking at Rong Dai made her hate Rong Dai even more.


    Rong Dai could tolerate others mocking and humiliating her, she would get back at them sooner orter, but she could not tolerate others being rude to her loved ones!


    Grandma Huo was the only shelter she had in this unfamiliar world, and was also her warmth.


    No matter how Wen Shi Lan criticized her, but speaking ill of Grandma Huo was uneptable!


    She looked at Wen Shi Lan, her eyes unconsciously bing sharp, and the chilly and powerful aura around her silently emerged, her tone also became cold: "Miss Wen, please watch your words. Grandma Huo is very healthy, if you are dissatisfied you cane at me. I don''t want to hear this kind of rhetoric again in our following conversation, do you understand?"


    Wen Shi Lan suddenly felt as if a big hand was pressing down on the back of her neck and head, feeling a suffocating pressure.


    Especially after Rong Dai spoke, this feeling made her very ufortable, she wanted to resist, but this invisible pressure made her feel powerless.


    What the hell! She was actually suppressed by this bitch?!


    "Miss Wen, since you''re not talking, I''ll take it that you agree. I came today to resolve the issue, I don''t want to cause more trouble because of this. Miss Wen, also please mind your attitude. I came to meet you in good faith, I won''t give you this chance a second time."


    Because of Wen Shi Lan''s previous words, although she restrained her momentum, her words remained strong and cold.


    Wen Shi Lan was annoyed inside, but as soon as she met Rong Dai''s sharp eyes, it felt like her back was being pressed down by something, her previous arrogant and contemptuous aura was crushed into powder by the other party.


    "You speak." She felt extremely stifled.


    Seeing her like this, Rong Dai was slightly satisfied inside.


    "I live together with Mr. Huo to put Grandma Huo''s heart at ease, please don''t misunderstand Mr. Huo, there is no emotion between us, we just married under orders."


    She sorted out her words in her heart, thinking about how to say it to convince the other party, to eliminate the misunderstanding between her and Huo Shao Ting.


    Wen Shi Lan was shocked, then ecstatic!


    Although she was very confused why Rong Dai wanted to say this to her, but didn''t this mean that Shao Ting really had no feelings for this bitch?


    They were only married because of Grandma Huo?


    So was Shao Ting being so cold to her because he was afraid of hurting her reputation?


    With just this simple statement from Rong Dai, Wen Shi Lan had already imagined countless scenarios in her mind that favored herself.


    "No matter the reason before, we are married now, we are nominally husband and wife. Miss Wen, you are also from a good family, you should understand these rules of aristocratic families, we can''t get divorced now."


    Seeing that Wen Shi Lan was not speaking, she paused and continued to exin. She just hoped that Wen Shi Lan could be patient for a while.


    After this year, when she divorced Huo Shao Ting, they could elope, or make whatever fuss they wanted, she would have nothing to do with it.


    "So I and Mr. Huo both hope that Miss Wen can endure it for this year, we cooperate with each other and let each other fulfill our wishes. This is the best solution for the three of us now."


    Her words were calm, not self-deprecating at all, her momentum was very strong.


    And Wen Shi Lan also understood her meaning, so she had misunderstood that she and Shao Ting were originally a couple?


    And she and Shao Ting would divorce after a year, this year they would only maintain a nominal marriage, just to maintain the Huo family''s reputation?


    The wild joy in her heart burst out like a fountain, Wen Shi Lan was extremely delighted inside!


    Shao Ting must like her, she was almost so stupid to really believe his words.


    "Miss Wen, I also came today specifically to exin this matter to you. Mr. Huo has helped me before, so I don''t want you to have a rift with him because of this, it would also affect my livelihood in the Huo family."


    Looking at Wen Shi Lan''s delighted face, the other party''s wild joy could no longer be concealed.


    What else could Wen Shi Lan do? Of course she agreed!


    "This method is very good." Wen Shi Lan restrained her emotions a little, and suddenly regained her confidence.


    How could she possibly lose to a penniless nobody without background or status?


    "No wonder I saw Shao Ting looking very unhappy today, but thank you for telling me this too. Things between Shao Ting and I will definitely be fine, you don''t need to worry about this. So you just need to do your job, after you divorce Shao Ting, I will give you generouspensation, just take it as me hiring you to put on a show to make Grandma happy. "


    Although Wen Shi Lan was happy inside, she still looked down on Rong Dai, her words were still mocking her.


    Putting on a show to make Grandma happy?


    Rong Daiughed inside, she could only take it as such, what else could she do?


    "Of course I understand."


    "Then I''ll take my leave first, Miss Wen enjoy yourself."


    Rong Dai nodded slightly then left.


    Wen Shi Lan was toozy to care about her arrogance, happily grabbing her bag and leaving too.


    She must meet with Shao Ting to have a good talk!


    Rong Dai had resolved the matter on her mind, sitting in the private car returning to the Huo residence.


    When she returned home, she happened to see Grandma Huo dressed fashionably and elegantly, and there were three other old grannies in the house, each hale and hearty, spirited and lively.


    "Grandma, where are you going dressed so spiritedly?"


    The only person she could speak nicely to in this family was Grandma Huo. To make her days here more bearable this year, and also to repay Grandma Huo''s kindness, she naturally had to behave obediently.

 Chapter 28: I Can Wait for You

    <h4>Chapter 28</h4>


    "They are all my old girlfriends. Grandma is getting on in years, so while her legs are still nimble, she''s going out traveling," the olddy said with a smile, as she pulled Rong Dai over to introduce her to the other three olddies.


    Rong Dai was very well-behaved, with a gentle smile on her face and a sweet softness to her voice as she greeted the other olddies.


    She had a sweet tongue, and after going around the circle, the few olddies were especially fond of her, and even asked for her WeChat ID.


    "Where are you nning to go for your trip, grandma? And about how long before you''ll be back? I''ll miss you if you''re gone too long." Rong Dai watched as Uncle Li loaded the luggage into the car, and admired in her heart this olddy''s constitution and temperament, to be able to decide to leave on a whim like this.


    If she went away, then Rong Dai would have no one left in the Huo household to protect her, and life from now on would be extremely difficult.


    "Don''t worry, grandma has bodyguards with her, and big brother has already had people arrange the whole itinerary," the olddy hadn''t answered her yet when Huo Mei Shu came downstairs, carrying a bag that Rong Dai didn''t know the contents of, but recognized the red cross that she had seen at hospitals before - it was probably some kind of medication.


    Rong Dai knew that Huo Mei Shu didn''t like her.


    Huo Shao Ting had never talked to her about this, so of course she didn''t know. Being mocked by Huo Mei Shu like this, she really had no way to retort, so could only force an apologetic smile.


    The olddy took the medicine box, admonishing Huo Mei Shu to be more respectful to Rong Dai, then hurried off upon hearing the other three olddies calling for her from the car.


    "Don''t worry, grandma, Mei Shu cares a lot about me. You must pay attention to safety and keep in touch with us."


    Seeing the displeased look on Huo Mei Shu''s face, Rong Dai quickly gave her a way out, half-supporting the olddy onto the car while cheerfully exhorting her.


    The olddy nodded, repeatedly reminding her that she and Huo Shao Ting must cultivate their feelings well.


    After sending off the olddy, Rong Dai felt a twinge of mncholy in her heart.


    "Hmph! Hypocrite!"


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t like the look of her, coldly ridiculing her before heading upstairs.


    Rong Dai also felt a headacheing on, but for the time being there was no way for her to change the original host''s impression on the Huo family - she couldn''t very well say she had transmigrated here could she? That would surely get her branded as a weirdo? No one would believe such an absurd theory.


    The living room was empty, mother-inw and Huo Shao Jie were not home either, so she could only head upstairs to continue working on the script.


    As long as she epted this role, she would have money in hand, and things after that would be easy to resolve.


    ...


    Over at Wen Shi Lan''s side, upon receiving this good news brought over by Rong Dai, her whole being bloomed with delight. She immediately made reservations at a restaurant, calcting Huo Shao Ting''s free time, and called his private number.


    Seeing Wen Shi Lan''s calle in, Huo Shao Ting put down the cup in his hand, faintly frowning before rejecting the call without a thought.


    Wen Shi Lan''s expression froze. She called back repeatedly, seven or eight times, but was rejected every time by Huo Shao Ting.


    It wasn''t until the tenth call that Huo Shao Ting, annoyed by the disturbance, finally picked up.


    "Shao Ting, could I invite you to dinner tonight? I don''t have any other intentions, I just want to thank you for taking care of me this time, and I also have some things about Rong Dai that I want to tell you."


    Before he could speak, Wen Shi Lan rushed to get the first words in, even bringing up Rong Dai.


    Although Rong Dai''s words had put her mind at ease, she still couldn''t be certain of Shao Ting''s feelings, so speaking this way would be a bit safer.


    Her heart fluttered anxiously, and after about five or six seconds, she finally heard Huo Shao Ting''s low voice over the phone: "Where?"


    Wen Shi Lan was overjoyed: "At the French restaurant we ate atst time..."


    "The name." Huo Shao Ting said impatiently, especially when recalling how Rong Dai had misunderstood him repeatedly because of her, which made him very ufortable.


    Wen Shi Lan felt a chill. She had thought he would remember it, since it was the ce he had brought her to eat at!


    She didn''t have time to think further, and didn''t dare dy any time, hurriedly telling him the name.


    Huo Shao Ting gave an indifferent hum of acknowledgement then immediately hung up. Hearing the busy tone over the phone after he had hung up, Wen Shi Lan finally came back to her senses, her sped fingers turning white around the phone.


    Night fell. Wen Shi Lan carefully applied her exquisite makeup, changing into an elegant little dress that entuated her curves. At the reserved restaurant, she anxiously awaited Huo Shao Ting''s arrival.


    "Boss, you made dinner ns with Ms. Wen tonight." Seeing him about to leave work and head home, Zhang the assistant hurriedly reminded him.


    Recalling that he did indeed have this matter, Huo Shao Ting headed for the restaurant after getting in the car.


    It was rush hour in the capital and traffic was heavy. During this time, he received a WeChat message from Huo Shao Jie:


    That woman actually asked Huo Shao Jie to borrow money? What did she need money for?


    Huo Shao Jie: "Big brother, sister-inw doesn''t have a job, could it be that you haven''t even given sister-inw money for her personal expenses every month? What can she do when she needs to socialize and see friends? Won''t othersugh at her?"


    Before Huo Shao Ting could figure out this issue, another message came in from Huo Shao Jie, and upon reading it his expression turned cold.


    When had he ever not given her personal expenses?


    "Did madam''s allowance for this month get transferred over?" he asked, withdrawing his phone to question Zhang who was driving.


    "It was transferred. Boss, didn''t you say to transfer 1 million from your private ount over every month on the first? Finance prepares the monthly statements, but...it seems like madam has never touched that card."


    Seeing his somewhat gloomy expression in the rearview mirror, Zhang didn''t really understand.


    "Go withdraw 100,000 in cash and put it in the trunk, I''m bringing it back tonight." Huo Shao Ting coldly instructed, then got out of the car and headed for the restaurant.


    "Shao Ting, over here!" Wen Shi Lan had waited a long time for him. Seeing him finally appear, she immediately beamed radiantly, her voice holding a hint of coquetry as she called out to him.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was cold. Despite walking side by side, his icy manner made Wen Shi Lan not dare get too close, seeming especially estranged.


    "Shao Ting, what do you want to eat? I rememberst time you..."


    "I didn''t agree toe eat with you. You wanted to talk about Rong Dai''s matters right? You have ten minutes."


    Huo Shao Ting sat down, speaking coldly, and even nced at his wristwatch, clearly counting down the time.


    Wen Shi Lan''s face turned ghastly pale. How could this be?


    That cheap Rong Dai had clearly said Shao Ting had feelings for her, so why was he still so cold towards her?


    "Shao Ting..."


    "I believe I already made myself very clearst time. Don''t call me Shao Ting, you can call me Mr. Huo, or big brother Huo, I can ept those. Only my family members can call me by that name."


    Hearing her call him that again, Huo Shao Ting felt an inexplicable annoyance rise in his heart, and his expression grew even colder.


    Wen Shi Lan''s eyes immediately reddened, tears swirling in her eyes.


    She felt so aggrieved, unwilling, and pained inside. She loved him so deeply, how could he not see that?


    She hurriedly grabbed her handbag off the table, took out the phone she had used to record Rong Dai earlier, and opened the audio file.


    "Shao...big brother Huo, no matter how things are, do you still have to treat me so coldly? Big brother Huo, I like you so much, I don''t believe you feel nothing at all! If it''s because of grandmother and Rong Dai, I can wait for you!"


    Extremely wronged, she ced the phone on the table with reddened eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression grew darker and darker as he listened to Rong Dai''s recording over the phone, even giving rise to a surge of unnamed anger in his heart!

 Chapter 29: It Won鈥檛 Be You

    <h4>Chapter 29</h4>


    ��Huo Shao Ting, I know you have feelings for me, don��t you? Otherwise, you wouldn��t treat me so well. We grew up together as childhood sweethearts - we were meant to be together.��


    Wen Shi Lan didn��t notice Huo Shao Ting��s displeased expression as she prattled on dreamily, thinking her words were full of tender affection as she gazed at him.


    Huo Shao Ting felt a chill in his heart. This woman really had some nerve!


    An arranged marriage!


    How nice!


    "Is that all she said?" The man''s expression was cold as he nced at Wen Shi Lan.


    Wen Shi Lan had worked herself up into quite a state, thinking she could take advantage of the mood to get closer to Huo Shao Ting, so that her ns forter would fall into ce naturally.


    She believed that as long as Huo Shao Ting took her, he would not bear to let her go.


    By now, she realized not only did Shao Tingck feelings for her, he didn''t have feelings for Rong Dai either.


    Otherwise, how could that woman have said those things?


    Since this was the case, why shouldn''t she fight for him?


    But just as she was about to approach him, she was frozen in ce by Huo Shao Ting''s re, her body stiffening mechanically.


    She hurriedly grabbed her phone from the table, looking at him ingratiatingly as she said, "There''s more, I recorded everything."


    As she spoke, she flipped through the recordings on her phone, but all she could find was Rong Dai''s line "We''re just an arranged marriage."


    None of the other words had been recorded.


    "Shao Ting, wait, I really did record it!"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting''s impatient expression, Wen Shi Lan''s face turned pale with nervousness, her fingers trembling as she frantically searched her phone, but no matter how she looked, she just couldn''t find it!


    Only then did she remember that when Rong Dai had said those things, she had been so excited that she seemed to have bumped her phone. Could it be that the recording stopped at that moment?


    Wen Shi Lan was both annoyed and helpless. She was also worried that Huo Shao Ting would think she was making things up. Her eyes kept cautiously ncing at him.


    Huo Shao Ting emanated an icy aura. All he could think about was Rong Dai''s line in the recording: "We have no feelings, only an arranged marriage."


    Is this really what that woman thought?


    A nameless anger spread through Huo Shao Ting''s heart. He really couldn''t understand what Rong Dai was thinking.


    "Give it to me." Seeing Wen Shi Lan''s flustered state, his expression showed a hint of impatience.


    Wen Shi Lan didn''t dare disobey. She hurriedly handed her phone over, her voice soft and gentle, "I recorded everything, it can''t be missing. Shao Ting, I know you''ve had it hard too. I really love you so much. I think we''re the most suitable match."


    "Granny was just confused for a moment because of her age. A year will pass quickly. Shao Ting, I''m not afraid of hardship. I really, really want to be your wife. I also hope we can have a happy family together."


    As she looked at Huo Shao Ting''s cold profile, her eyes were full of infatuation. Even her voice was filled with coquetry and longing.


    "Shao Ting... I know you''re looking forward to it too, right? I can face all this together with you. You don''t have to bear it alone. I was too foolish before, and didn''t understand your difficulties. But now I know. Can you forgive me?"


    As Wen Shi Lan spoke more passionately, she even felt her eyes brimming with tears, moved by her own words. Unconsciously, she drew closer, wanting to sit on Huo Shao Ting''sp.


    "Is this what you think?"


    Huo Shao Ting swiped through her phone as he spoke. Catching a whiff of her overpowering perfume, he raised his head and stared at her.


    That bone-chilling, creepy gaze again. Wen Shi Lan''s body stiffened, her feet stuck to the floor as if glued down, not daring to get any closer.


    "Did I say something wrong? I...Shao Ting, I really, really want to have a perfect, warm family with you. I think we can make it work. I can be a good wife to you."


    Wen Shi Lan showed that pitiful, touching expression again, her voice soft and tender.


    "Do you have a backup?" Huo Shao Ting asked patiently through gritted teeth. Deep in the depths of his somber eyes, anger was already simmering.


    Wen Shi Lan''s tender feelings were interrupted again. Although she felt a little wronged, she answered Huo Shao Ting''s question obediently.


    "Shao... Huo, I''m not that kind of despicable person. Recording this was an ident. I don''t have a backup." Meeting his icy cold eyes, she didn''t dare continue calling him so intimately.


    When would she have had time to make a backup? She had barely managed to book the restaurant and get herself ready, instantly forgetting about this matter in her excitement.


    "That''s good then."


    Having obtained the answer he wanted, Huo Shao Ting stood up, frightening Wen Shi Lan into taking two steps back.


    But Huo Shao Ting didn''t immediately leave. Instead, he pursed his lips, gazing at her with deep, brooding eyes.


    Wen Shi Lan''s heart pounded for no reason, unable to resist a surge of tion. Shao Ting did still like her after all.


    She couldn''t help imagining in her mind what would happen between them next, a rosy flush creeping onto her cheeks unconsciously, shy and delighted like a blushing bride.


    "Shao Ting..." She stole a nce at Huo Shao Ting''s unchanged expression, then couldn''t resist her old habit again. Her voice was tender and mellow as honey as she raised her hand, wanting to grab his sleeve.


    Her hints were already obvious enough, and this restaurant was attached to a hotel. Just behind them was arge heart-shaped bed strewn with fiery red rose petals, perfect for a couple. Wen Shi Lan had arranged it here specifically for convenience.


    But Huo Shao Ting conveniently slipped both hands into his pockets, his gaze cold and voice icy, "Wen Shi Lan, I have no interest in you whatsoever. I''m already married and I have no ns to divorce. I''m a married man, so you''d better watch your behavior and words."


    "Also, I only helped you because it was your father''s dying wish. I think I''ve fulfilled that. If you have any other fantasies, I strongly advise you to erase those absurd thoughts from your mind immediately."


    "Rong Dai is mywful wife, married to me properly. My wife and I had a small marital disputest night, because Miss Wen''s overt behavior caused her to misunderstand."


    His words were as cold as ice, hammering Wen Shi Lan''s heart one by one. Her face turned deathly pale, and her cheeks felt slightly numb from the shock.


    "So for the sake of my wife''s feelings, and for her to maintain a cheerful mood, I would appreciate it if Miss Wen avoids me in the future when we meet. Otherwise, I, Huo Shao Ting, will not be so polite in speaking to you again."


    "How you choose to think is your business, but my family can only belong to my wife. You are just a friend''s daughter. I have no thoughts about you whatsoever. Also, any future children and happy family life I have will only happen with my wife Rong Dai, not you."


    "You weren''t before, you won''t be now, and you will never be in the future. I hope you understand this point clearly, Miss Wen. If you offend me again, my attorneys at the Huo Group will be happy to speak with you. I''ll have my assistant buy you a new phone and return yours. I don''t want anything malicious affecting the harmony between my wife and I."


    "Also, everything you just said was recorded here. To avoid any further harassment from you, Miss Wen, I advise you to behave yourself. "


    Huo Shao Ting took out his own phone and yed back the recording, ncing at her coldly before leaving the room without looking back.


    Wen Shi Lan stood there in a daze, shocked speechless for a long time.

 Chapter 30: I don鈥檛 Think about You

    <h4>Chapter 30</h4>


    "Th-this is impossible! You must be lying to me!" As soon as Wen Shi Lan came to her senses, she shrieked and rushed out after Huo Shao Ting!


    She couldn''t ept such an exnation! He had clearly been willing to ept her! He must have only said those things because he cared about her reputation!


    Wen Shi Lan was still in denial as she ran to the restaurant entrance and saw Huo Shao Ting get into his car. She immediately threw herself at the car door, clinging to it desperately!


    She didn''t care at all about being gentle, cute, or charming. Her meticulously done makeup was instantly ruined by her tears.


    "Brother Huo, you''re lying to me, aren''t you? I know you''re worried about my reputation, but I don''t care about any of that! All I care about is you!"


    "Do you know? Since I first met you when I was seven, I swore in my heart that I would definitely be your bride, definitely be your wife, and be the mother of your children! Brother Huo, you can''t treat me like this! I love you so much!"


    Wen Shi Lan was on the verge of copse!


    She couldn''t believe what her ears had just heard. How could he have no interest in her? Was his kindness to her really just because of her father?


    She couldn''t ept this exnation!


    "Boss, this is..." Zhang, Huo''s assistant, was stunned speechless by Wen Shi Lan''s behavior. He looked at Huo Shao Ting''s gloomy expression in the rearview mirror in shock.


    Huo Shao Ting''s face was cold and his eyes were filled with disgust and displeasure as he nced up at Wen Shi Lan, who was clinging to the car door like a madwoman.


    Grandma was right, this woman''s character was no good.


    "Miss Wen, I''m telling you again, I have no interest in you whatsoever. From beginning to end, from head to toe, I have never had the slightest inclination towards you. I''m doing this only to avoid upsetting my wife. Don''t imagine there''s something between us when there isn''t."


    He looked at Zhang with extreme disgust. "Go get security to take her away."


    Zhang wiped away a cold sweat. Although the boss was very charming and wealthy, an object of desire for many unmarried women, situations like this hadn''t decreased at all even after the boss got married. However, no woman had ever clung to him so tantly.


    Because women who harassed the boss usually didn''t end up well, gradually fewer and fewer dared to get close to him.


    He hurried out to deal with the situation, but before he could close the car window, Wen Shi Lan had mped onto it with both arms!


    "Boss, this is too difficult for me."


    The restaurant''s security came over but was also powerless. Who dared try to pry her away?


    Zhang tried persuading her several times, but Wen Shi Lan refused to let go. Instead, she started wailing loudly.


    "Contact Wen''s family toe deal with this. Send another car over."


    Huo Shao Ting nced at his watch. His patience with Wen Shi Lan waspletely used up.


    Zhang nodded and stood guard outside the car door while making arrangements over the phone.


    Ten minutester, the car arrived.


    "Boss, the car is here."


    "The keys." Huo Shao Ting''s voice was cold. Zhang quickly handed over the keys, then remembered the 100,000 yuan cash. "Boss, I put the 100,000 yuan cash for your wife in the trunk."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t reply. He got in the car and sped away.


    "Shao Ting!"


    Wen Shi Lan couldn''t help shouting loudly, but the security stopped her. She could only watch powerlessly as he left.


    Zhang shook his head. When Wen''s family finally rushed over, the drama was finally over.


    Huo Shao Ting was in an extremely bad mood. By the time he got home, he had already missed dinner at the Huo family residence. The housekeeper, Aunt Wang, happened to be out.


    After eating, Rong Dai was in the living room downstairs going over the script with Huo Shao Jie. When he saw Huo Shao Ting''s dark expression, the hairs on Huo Shao Jie stood up. Seeing his gloomy face, he knew something was wrong. He immediately hugged the script and stood up. "Sister-inw, Lu Ye and I still have some details to finalize for the script. Let''s discuss it again tomorrow!"


    Then he dashed upstairs as if his feet had wheels.


    Rong Dai was puzzled. Looking up at Huo Shao Ting''s unhappy face, she cautiously asked, "You''re back. I was..."


    But before she could finish speaking, Huo Shao Ting cut her off. "Did you go see Wen Shi Lan today?" His sharp gaze fixed on her.


    Rong Dai nodded. She was still very confused. Could there have been some conflict between them after her exnation?


    "I was just worried that there might be misunderstandings between you and Miss Wen because of me, so I made a special point to meet up with her and exin. Did Miss Wen not believe me? I can meet up with her again tomorrow to rify. I can exin it clearly."


    Seeing her speak so seriously and formally, the anger pent up in Huo Shao Ting''s heart had no outlet. He could only seethe in silence.


    This woman waspletely unreasonable!


    "Listen to it yourself!"


    Huo Shao Ting took out Wen Shi Lan''s phone and directly yed the recording.


    Rong Dai nodded very carefully. "That''s right, that''s what I said. Is there something wrong with what I said?"


    Upstairs, Huo Shao Jie didn''t hurry into his room. Instead, he stood by the wall listening.


    The spacious living room had good acoustics, so he could of course hear the recording too. Seeing Rong Dai nod so seriously while his brother''s face was so ugly, he couldn''t help feeling anxious about herck of emotional intelligence.


    Huo Shao Ting gave a coldugh. "What do you think you said right?"


    Seeing him on the verge of anger and her own cautious confusion, Rong Dai''s heart cooled. Could her clumsy efforts have backfired? Wasn''t she just getting herself killed?


    "Shao Ting, listen to me, I didn''t mean to..."


    "Since you went to see her, I''ll make myself clear."


    To avoid this woman being suspicious, he extremely disliked when misunderstandings like this happened!


    "First, I married you not because it was an arranged marriage, but because I felt you were the right person to marry. Second, I have no feelings for Wen Shi Lan, neither before nor in the future. Third, no one can force me to do what I don''t want to do."


    Seeing Rong Dai''s nk, bewildered yet cautious face, the fire pent up in Huo Shao Ting''s heart still couldn''te out. It could only fester silently inside him.


    "Do you understand my exnation?" He asked coldly, his gaze icy and mixed with anger.


    Rong Dai''s mind wentpletely nk! She was dumbfounded!


    So all her efforts to match them up were just her own wishful thinking?


    "So...I was just imagining things?"


    "What do you think?" Huo Shao Ting asked impatiently. He had no desire for marriage precisely because women were so troublesome, with too many strange ideas in their heads.


    Dealing with women was far more difficult than dealing with work. He didn''t want to make trouble for himself.


    But when he met Rong Dai, he was willing to get married. He just hadn''t expected the difference after marriage to be so great.


    Rong Dai was instantly embarrassed, panic rising in her heart. She wished she could find a hole to crawl into!


    But could she really be medpletely? With how intimate they were?


    "I...I saw you were so close with Miss Wen, so I thought..." She struggled to exin further.


    "So instead of asking me, your husband, you guessed on your own?" Huo Shao Ting''s voice was icy as he sat down on the sofa.


    Rong Dai didn''t dare move an inch. Cold sweat was breaking out on her back. She would never have imagined this was the situation!

 Chapter 31: Making Amends

    <h4>Chapter 31</h4>


    Rong Dai felt that she was really going to be wrongly used to death. What did she mean by specting by herself over there? Her eyes were not on top of her head. The way Huo Shao Ting looked at her was so gentle that water could be squeezed out. Anyone would feel that something was going on between them!


    Besides, as soon as she woke up, she saw the two of them together. When your wife is sick, you bring another woman to visit her? She really wanted to ask Huo Shao Ting what was this about? Could she not be suspicious?


    But she didn''t have the courage. She was afraid of angering the other party, then she would really have to leave with her bedroll. Especially now that she still owed a lot of debts. This person was not only her current provider, but also her creditor.


    Endure, wait until she earned money, then she would no longer have to watch his face.


    Rong Daimented in her heart. She inherited very little of the original owner''s memories. Although she had searched for many things with her mobile phone, she still could not figure out the bank card password. Even the almighty Baidu could not help her.


    And she did not dare to ask. She only had eight hundred yuan left on her. What could eight hundred yuan do?


    Eat a couple of meals, drink a few bottles of water, and it would probably be gone.


    She took two deep breaths, and a gentle smile appeared on her charming face. She smiled at Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting, have you had dinner?"


    This matter was her own overthinking. She could see that Huo Shao Ting was very annoyed. But this matter could not continue like this. She had to get past it.


    Huo Shao Ting sat on the sofa and looked at her all the time. Seeing her reveal such a brilliant smile, his inexplicable irritability grew even more.


    Couldn''t this woman''s official fake smile be more professional?


    "This is my fault, but... I just wanted to make you happy. Don''t hold it against me okay? I can cook to make amends."


    Seeing that he not only did not answer, his face became even more gloomy.


    Rong Dai''s heart began to flutter anxiously, without a foothold. A sh of inspiration shed through her mind, and she hurriedly found an excuse.


    No one dislikes hearing nice words, right? Her attitude had always been very proper. Judging from previous events, this man did not belong to the kind who cares about trivial matters.


    Sure enough, a trace of satisfaction shed through Huo Shao Ting''s deep eyes.


    Although he knew that what this woman said might not be true, he just liked to hear it.


    "You can cook?"


    He retorted, after all, apart from meeting each other twice before getting married, the two of them were like strangers after getting married, with very little understanding of each other.


    Rong Dai''s eyes inadvertently nced towards the kitchen. In order to gain the emperor''s favor, she had specially learned a few dishes from the best imperial chef in the imperial kitchen.


    Now when she thought back, her efforts back then were just a joke.


    When she was in the Rong''s residence, she didn''t lift a finger. After bing his empress, she had to wash her hands and cook soup by herself. Even her parents had never eaten a meal made by her. It was pathetic.


    "If you can''t, then don''t..."


    "I can do it." Rong Dai''s thoughts wandered far away. Hearing Huo Shao Ting''s faintly displeased voice again, she pulled back her mind and looked at him, answering very seriously.


    In her previous life, she only cooked for the Emperor.


    But this time, she just wanted to follow her own heart and do whatever she wanted, without being constrained by anyone.


    Besides, the Huo family was a prominent n. Of course there were servants to handle household affairs.


    But after she left the Huo family, she might not be able to afford to hire servants. Washing, cooking and other things would have to be done by herself.


    While she had the opportunity to get in touch with these things now, she had to learn seriously and master these most basic skills.


    Huo Shao Ting was a little surprised that she suddenly became so serious. He didn''t continue what he was about to say, just nced at her lightly: "Then I''ll wait."


    Rong Dai did not hesitate. After all, this was to appease her providers. She could not be negligent!


    She turned around and went straight into the kitchen. Huo Shao Ting''s gaze fell on the script ced on the coffee table. Driven by curiosity, he picked it up.


    Upstairs, Huo ShaoJie was eavesdropping. He originally wanted to watch the show, but he didn''t expect his sister-inw to be so good at coaxing people. With a few words, she appeased his older brother.


    When he saw Huo Shao Ting pick up the script on the coffee table, his face instantly turned pale!


    This is bad!


    "Brother, big brother!"


    He rushed down in a panic, almost falling down the stairs.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at him coldly and then retracted his gaze. That contemptuous look made Huo ShaoJie feel hopeless.


    "Kiss scenes, quite a lot. How do you repay me, your big brother?"


    His face was cold, his voice was calm without the slightest ripple.


    It was precisely this calmness of his that made Huo ShaoJie''s scalp tingle. The calmer his big brother was, the more serious the consequences would be!


    "This can be changed!" He immediately raised his finger and swore, taking three steps in two and taking away all the scripts.


    Bang!


    The two brothers were talking when there was a loud noise from the kitchen.


    "Big brother, go see sister-inw, she might need you! I will definitely revise this script properly! Don''t be angry."


    Huo ShaoJie heaved a sigh of relief in his heart, revealing a professional official fake smile, and fled the scene holding the script.


    Huo Shao Ting was toozy to care about him either. His deep gaze looked towards the kitchen, his eyebrows slightly furrowed, hesitated for one or two seconds, then got up and walked over to the kitchen.


    In the kitchen, Rong Dai was at a loss.


    She was unfamiliar with these things... Because Wang Ma usually cooked, she had never seen these shiny, slippery metal lumps before.


    She didn''t even know how to light the stove.


    Just now she just wanted to make noodles, after all it was sote, oily food was not suitable. Noodles were easy to digest, paired with some delicious side dishes, it would not be considered perfunctory.


    But she had overestimated her own abilities. Just by grabbing a tool to make noodles, she got hit on the head.


    Huo Shao Ting saw her standing in a mess of metal utensils, with a nk look on her face. The displeasure in his heart somehow disappeared.


    Obviously she couldn''t cook, yet was stubborn about it.


    These things were all custom made abroad by Huo Mei Shu. If she knew they were smashed like this by her, she would surely be heartbroken.


    "I''m sorry, I... I just wanted to make noodles, I didn''t expect this to happen. I''m really sorry."


    Rong Dai was a little frustrated. Everything here was different from everything she hade into contact within her previous life, whether it was clothing, food, housing, transportation or speech and behavior.


    She thought that after spending time researching things online these days, she had grasped some basics.


    But now it seemed that she had only grasped a tiny bit of the superficial things.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at her indifferently without saying anything, turned and left the kitchen, taking off his suit jacket.


    Rong Dai felt hopeless in her heart. Just as she was feeling dejected, she saw hime back.


    "Go out, I''ll do it." He bent over to pick up the utensils, and ordered her coldly.


    Only then did Rong Dai react. She also hurriedly and clumsily helped to pick them up.


    "I told you to go out, didn''t you hear me?" Seeing her clumsy and slightly panicked appearance, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help frowning, grasping her slender wrist that felt a little bony in his palm, and pulling her out of the kitchen.


    When he grasped her wrist, which was so slender it felt a little bony, his eyes darkened slightly. She was so thin.

 Chapter 32: Her Uneasiness

    <h4>Chapter 32</h4>


    "Rong Dai... Do you think you could teach me? I''m not very familiar with these things, and I haven''t cooked in a long time, so I''m a bit out of practice."


    Rong Dai felt nervous inside, and that familiar sense of crisis appeared again. Cold sweat broke out on her back.


    No matter how noble her identity was in her previous life, this world was still unfamiliar to her now.


    Everything she saw and heard was something she had nevere into contact with before, everything was unknown to her.


    She had been optimistic before, so that sense of crisis had only appeared for a fleeting moment, and she was confident she could handle it.


    But when she entered the kitchen today, she realized how little she knew about this world, and that panic instantly surrounded her like a.


    She looked at the man in front of her with serious, somewhat panicked eyes.


    No matter what her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting would be like after this year, at least for now this man was sheltering her, so she also had to learn, ept and change.


    It wasn''t scary to lose face now, what was scary was that if she continued to be recklessly optimistic, things could get even worse.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her, always feeling that her mood was a bit strange today, but he couldn''t confirm what was strange about it.


    Looking into her uneasy eyes, he inexplicably felt a little depressed in his heart.


    "You can just guide me on the side with how to use it, I... I only knew how to use the kind that cooks over a fire before, and then my mother always did the cooking, I''ve never been in the kitchen."


    Seeing that he didn''t speak, Rong Dai hurriedly made up a vague, hardly convincing excuse.


    Although Huo Shao Ting felt it was strange, he didn''t question her after all. This woman had not been normal for more than a day or two now.


    "Alright." He gave a muted grunt in response, and Rong Dai finally rxed.


    Rather than believing others, she was more willing to believe Huo Shao Ting.


    Perhaps it was because of his marital rtionship with the original owner, and she was still his nominal wife now, so there was a little bit of instinct involved in this trust.


    Rong Dai was a little panicked. Although she was willing to trust Huo Shao Ting, she didn''t want to appear too abnormal, so as not to arouse his suspicions.


    Little did she know that all these deliberate concealments had already fallen into Huo Shao Ting''s eyes. He was nearly six foot three, and even in the spacious kitchen, his presence was still very eye-catching.


    "Is this right?"


    Rong Dai carefully followed his instructions, while also having to carefully process the ingredients. From time to time, she also had to analyze in her heart what every subtle expression on Huo Shao Ting''s face meant.


    After finally making a bowl of noodles, she felt like she had just fought a battle, not only physically exhausted, but also mentally.


    These metal bumps were very convenient, but she was not skilled at using them. Fortunately, Huo Shao Ting was very patient, even when she made mistakes, he didn''t reprimand her at all.


    "Try it and see if the taste is okay? I haven''t cooked in a long time, if it''s not good, please bear with me."


    Putting the piping hot egg and meat noodle soup on the table, Rong Dai also brought out two dishes of stir-fried seasonal vegetables, speaking in an ingratiating yet polite tone.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the simple noodles on the table. Although it wasn''t any delicacy, for a moment he felt a ripple arise in his heart. This feeling was as gentle as a spring breeze.


    Using online terminology, this could be called time passes serenely, right?


    However, when he caught the caution in Rong Dai''s eyes, his face unconsciously tensed up again.


    Rong Dai would rarely reveal her thoughts in front of anyone under normal circumstances, but her experience in the kitchen today made her feel uneasy.


    And this wasn''t the imperial harem where they had to be vignt against each other, so she was very rxed.


    With this rxation, her thoughts were revealed.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t say anything, but sat down to eat the noodles.


    Rong Dai had made this herself, with very rich soup stock and vors.


    This first mouthful surprised Huo Shao Ting. He didn''t expect that what she said was true.


    If he hadn''t seen with his own eyes how helpless she was in the kitchen, he wouldn''t have believed that she could cook.


    "Very good. Next time if you don''t fumble around so much, it will be even better."


    He didn''t stint on critique either. Rong Dai kept looking at him nervously the whole time. Hearing these words from him, the breath caught in her throat immediately loosened.


    "Thank you for tonight, I will learn well." A look of relief appeared on Rong Dai''s face, and the unease in her eyes also dissipated.


    Huo Shao Ting gave a muted grunt in response, but wondered in his heart what exactly she was so worried about? It was just making a meal, so how could she be so uneasy?


    Although he didn''t point it out, the tension and unease that Rong Dai had inadvertently revealed while cooking in the kitchen, he saw very clearly.


    "I don''t want my wife to be so courteous and keep me at arm''s length all the time. While mutual respect is good, I don''t need your courtesy. You''re my wife, all your demands of me are reasonable. I hope you remember this well."


    Maybe her unease was because of him, so by saying this, she should be able to understand, right?


    Rong Dai didn''t expect him to say these things. For a moment her mind couldn''t keep up, and she couldn''t deeplyprehend the meaning behind his words, she could only stare nkly and nod.


    "I''ll go tidy up the kitchen." Thinking of the smoky chaos she had made of the kitchen, since he was satisfied, she didn''t need to sit here watching him finish eating either.


    Huo Shao Ting had originally wanted her to rest for a bit. They had hired servants at home, she didn''t need to do these things herself at all.


    But Rong Dai''s long legs walked quickly, disappearing from sight in just a few steps.


    In the kitchen, Rong Dai carefully washed and tidied up, vaguely making ns in her mind. She needed toe to this kitchen frequently, she had to figure out all these novel things clearly.


    "Big brother, when did youe back?"


    Huo Mei Shu came in from outside, and when she passed the dining room she saw Huo Shao Ting there, subconsciously asking.


    "Is it strange that I came back?" Huo Shao Ting nced up at her, puzzled in his heart.


    Howe it was strange when he came back, but not when they did?


    Huo Mei Shuughed and poured herself a ss of water to drink a sip. "Isn''t it strange? You usuallye back once every ten days or half a month. This is already the third time this month."


    As she spoke, her eyes fell on the noodles Huo Shao Ting was eating, and her expression instantly changed. Hearing movements in the kitchen, thinking it was Mrs. Wang, she immediately yelled, "Mrs. Wang?! How can you make noodles for big brother?!"


    In the kitchen busying about, Rong Dai was shocked by this yell, and her hand trembled, nearly dropping the porcin bowl in her grasp.


    "Big brother, don''t you know you''re intolerant to noodles? Are you trying to make yourself sick? Stop eating!"


    As Huo Mei Shu spoke, she was about to take away the bowl in front of Huo Shao Ting.


    Rong Dai came out, beads of sweat on her forehead, looking at the siblings in confusion, "Did something happen? Mrs. Wang went out..."

 Chapter 33: The Grievance of Hormeishu

    <h4>Chapter 33</h4>


    "Rong Dai? Is it you who made noodles for my elder brother?"


    Seeing it was Rong Daiing out from the kitchen, Huo Mei Shu''s face was cold and fierce. She questioned her in a sharp and harsh voice!


    Rong Dai was so frightened that she jumped. How could just making a meal anger the young aunt?


    "I...I made it, what''s wrong?"


    "What''s wrong?" Huo Mei Shu was furious, looking at her with fiery eyes. "Don''t you know my elder brother has to be hospitalized for three days every time he eats noodles? He has a bad stomach and can''t eat flour foods! No one in our family dares to make noodles to eat. You actually cooked noodles for my elder brother. Are you trying to sincerely kill him?"


    Rong Dai''s face turned deathly pale, her gaze dazed and startled as she looked at Huo Shao Ting.


    She just wanted to make him something to eat to coax him, and then let him get over the misunderstanding about her unwillingness to see him and her going to see Wen Shi Lan privately.


    But she didn''t know Huo Shao Ting couldn''t eat noodles!


    "Huo Mei Shu."


    Huo Shao Ting''s face turned cold. He looked at Huo Mei Shu displeasedly. His gaze was sharp.


    "Shao Ting, let''s...let''s hurry to the hospital! Or does the house have medicine to induce vomiting? You just ate it, it probably hasn''t been absorbed yet."


    Rong Dai was so frightened that her hands and feet turned ice cold. She didn''t pay attention to Huo Mei Shu''s attitude, but looked at him anxiously, full of concern.


    She just wanted to make him a meal to appease him, and then get him to move past the misunderstanding about her being unwilling to see him and going to privately meet Wen Shi Lan.


    But she didn''t expect this to happen!


    If Huo Shao Ting ate something bad, his grandmother had just gone out. How could his mother-inw spare her?


    Just the young aunt''s violent temper was already too much for her!


    "I''m fine." Seeing her so careful and humble, Huo Shao Ting''s heart was suddenly pierced as if by a needle.


    She was his officially recognized and state approved wife brought home. He thought the Huo family could provide her food and shelter, and the rtionship between them could be a proper husband and wife.


    Just now he had been wondering what exactly made her seem so uneasy.


    Now he knew the reason.


    He put down his chopsticks and stood up, pulling Rong Dai behind him. He looked down at Huo Mei Shu condescendingly, his gaze sharp.


    "Huo Mei Shu, Rong Dai is your eldest sister-inw. She is the wife I married and brought home. She is Huo Shao Ting''s wife. The food, clothing, and belongings in this family are all earned by me. If you are not satisfied, you can get out of this family!"


    "I don''t care who indulges your young miss temper. You like yelling at others and I won''t interfere since you''re an adult now and that''s your freedom."


    "But this is my wife. I''m asking you to show some respect! If I hear again that you have yelled at my wife, don''t bothering back to this family. Go live wherever you like, but there won''t be a ce for you here!"


    "Have I made myself clear enough?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s attitude was firm, his tone authoritative and cold.


    Not only was Huo Mei Shu shocked, even Rong Dai was frightened.


    What astonished Huo Mei Shu was that although her elder brother was often not at home, she knew this family was supported by him. So she deeply respected her elder brother.


    Therefore, after he got married, she also gave Rong Dai that respect.


    It was a pity Rong Dai was unappreciative, especially seeing Rong Dai''s indifference towards her elder brother. It made her furious!


    Her elder brother was so outstanding. What kind of woman could he not marry? What right did she have to be so indifferent to him?


    But now the one in the wrong was this woman. She was worried about her elder brother''s health. Why was he criticizing her?


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t understand it and felt wronged. Her eyes instantly turned red.


    If Rong Dai treated her elder brother well, it would be fine.


    But she clearly didn''t treat him well. Yet she couldn''t say a thing?


    Rong Dai was also extremely shocked!


    Huo Shao Ting was very strange tonight. How could he say those words?


    They clearly didn''t have feelings for each other. How could he suddenly defend her like this?


    But before she could figure out this problem, seeing Huo Mei Shu''s aggrieved appearance, she was greatly rmed. This was bad!


    She was trying every means to gain the favor of the young aunt and mother-inw. But his violent defense immediately shattered her efforts.


    "Mei Shu, don''t listen to your elder brother. He is just angry at me today and said confused things. Don''t take it to heart. I won''t make noodles next time. Thank you for the reminder."


    Rong Dai hurriedly tried to remedy the situation, but she didn''t even believe her own words.


    When Huo Shao Ting said those words just now, his attitude was so overbearing.


    If Huo Mei Shu really fell out with Huo Shao Ting over such a small matter, or even moved out, his mother-inw would definitely kill her!


    "Shao Ting, don''t speak so harshly. Mei Shu was just worried about your health. I didn''t know you couldn''t eat flour foods either. She meant well."


    After appeasing Huo Mei Shu, she hurriedly exined to Huo Shao Ting.


    But after saying these two things, she suddenly felt angering at her from both sides!


    "Elder brother, have you gone crazy? For her sake, you would actually drive away your own younger sister? I''ve always respected you. Since your marriage, in what way have I not respected this woman?"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at Rong Dai with utmost loathing, her gaze confronting Huo Shao Ting''s. She couldn''t helpining tearfully.


    "This woman is shameless. If she didn''t want to marry back then, she shouldn''t have married! Does our Huo family need to beg her? You use me of not respecting her enough?"


    "Look at how she acts. Mom bought her bird''s nest, cordyceps, second brother brought her all kinds of local specialty gifts, I bought her high-end luxury clothes and skincare products. Did she appreciate any of it?"


    Huo Mei Shu also had an impatient personality. Especially with this resentment pent up for so long, she erupted on the spot!


    "What did she do instead? She turned around and sold all these things! She walks around frowning all day, only smiling when she sees Grandma. Do we owe her?"


    "You''re not home often, but I am. I know clearly! She''s made mom so angry she can''t eat. In what way have we wronged her? She doesn''t know you''re allergic to flour foods. Is she qualified to be your wife? On what basis are you berating me?!"


    Huo Mei Shu felt wronged and cried out.


    Hearing Huo Mei Shu''s usations, Rong Dai''s heart wentpletely cold.


    She really didn''t expect the original host''s behavior in the Huo family to have been so terrible that she made a woman in her twenties cry. And there was so much pent up resentment!


    She suddenly understood a bit why the original host died lonesome in the hospital without anyone by her side.


    The original host dying was a relief.


    But this made things difficult for her. She only inherited scattered fragments of the original host''s memories. She didn''t know or understand many things.


    If she had known the original host acted so outrageously, she would have rather woken up and immediately smashed her own head, going back to the cold pce.

 Chapter 34: A Big Black Pot

    <h4>Chapter 34</h4>


    "What''s going on? What is happening?"


    Although Huo ShaoJie was upstairs, he could hear everything clearly. He didn''t expect his older brother to criticize his younger sister so harshly either.


    Huo Mei Shu had always respected her older brother the most and cared about him the most. However, Rong Dai''s previous behavior was indeed somewhat hard to understand.


    "Mei Shu, speak nicely. Don''t be so disrespectful."


    Huo ShaoJie was not really trying to me Huo Mei Shu. It was just that his older brother''s face was already unbearably cold.


    If Huo Mei Shu kept talking, her older brother would truly turn against her.


    "How am I not speaking properly? Rong Dai is the one who should learn to speak properly and behave well!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s voice was sharp and angry. She raised her hand and pointed at Rong Dai, her eyes red with grievance.


    Having said that, she turned her head and ran upstairs with her face covered.


    "Big brother, although little sister''s words were... not very pleasant to hear," Huo ShaoJie''s face was also a bit cold. His gaze subconsciously nced at Rong Dai, "You shouldn''t have spoken to little sister like that either. In this family, she respects you the most."


    After saying that, he also ignored Rong Dai and went upstairs.


    Hearing the loud mming of a door upstairs, Rong Dai''s heart shuddered! What had she just experienced?!


    She had only made a bowl of noodles, yet it triggered this terrible incident!


    She had offended both the little sister-inw and little uncle!


    And what was going on with Huo ShaoTing tonight?


    Why did he say those things? Wasn''t he deliberately provoking Huo Mei Shu?


    "ShaoTing, let me go with you to the hospital first. I''lle back and properly exin things to Mei Shu. What do you think?"


    She couldn''t afford to offend either of them, so she could only y both sides to save herself.


    However, she didn''t get a response from Huo ShaoTing after saying that. When she turned her head, she saw that he continued eating noodles as if nothing had happened.


    Rong Dai was baffled. Huo Mei Shu had even cried, yet how could he still eat?


    Wasn''t he not supposed to eat wheat foods?


    "ShaoTing, this noodle..."


    "I just can''t eat mechanically made noodles. Handmade noodles are fine." Huo ShaoTing''s voice was indifferent.


    He actually really liked eating noodles, but he got stomachaches every time he ate mechanically made noodles. However, he was fine withpletely handmade noodles, which was rather strange.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Were there really people this odd in the world?


    "Then I''ll go upstairs and see Mei Shu. She... I''m really alright with what you said earlier. Although I''m very happy you stood up for me, it hurt Mei Shu."


    Rong Dai felt relieved. She had offended two people all at once. When mother-inw came backter, she probably wouldn''t get away with it either.


    If she didn''t appease Huo ShaoTing and stabilize the situation, she would really be close to leaving this ce for good.


    "If you go up now, she will only get angry at you. Don''t worry about this matter."


    Huo ShaoTing had even finished drinking all the broth, and didn''t leave a single vegetable behind.


    "But..."


    "Don''t you want to read the script anymore? Or you don''t want to take the role anymore?"


    Rong Dai wanted to exin, but Huo ShaoTing had already gotten up, taken the dishes to the kitchen, and left her with nothing but a cold back.


    Soon, the sound of dish washing came from the kitchen. Rong Dai''s mind was filled with thousands of thoughts and countless doubts.


    She didn''t understand tonight''s Huo ShaoTing, but she also didn''t know how tofort Huo Mei Shu or figure out a good solution for this matter.


    The original owner''s previous actions had already taken deep root. Although she really didn''t know how excessive the original owner''s actions were before.


    But no matter what, Huo Mei Shu was a well-mannered youngdy of a prestigious family. The Huo family surely wouldn''t be stingy in cultivating their family members.


    Huo Mei Shu only felt disgust towards her when seeing her.


    It was imaginable how detestable the original owner must have been. Although she was not the original owner, she had to shoulder this burden. Thinking about this made her feel wronged.


    Rong Dai felt very bothered. She had barely ovee one obstacle before facing the next. She just wanted to properly live this life, so why was it so difficult?


    "Mistress, what''s going on here? Who''s in the kitchen?"


    Mrs. Wang came back at this time and saw her standing in a daze in the dining room looking quite unwell, so she asked.


    Rong Dai snapped back to reality. She gazed nkly at Mrs. Wang, and suddenly had an idea.


    The person who tied the bell was the one to untie it. All of this only happened after the original owner married into the family. Now she was the master of this body.


    In order to survive, there were some things she still needed to understand clearly.


    "Mrs. Wang, are you free now?"


    Mrs. Wang nodded. She had wanted to go to the kitchen to take a look, but was pulled by Rong Dai to sit under the flower arbor in the garden.


    "Mrs. Wang, can I ask you some questions?" She hesitated for a moment before deciding to speak up.


    She wanted to confirm exactly what inhuman things the original owner had done to make the Huo family detest her so much.


    Huo Mei Shu''s attitude tonight shocked her tremendously. Although she didn''t want trouble, she would still spend a year at the Huo residence.


    If this issue wasn''t resolved, not to mention a year, she probably wouldn''t evenst half a year!


    Mrs. Wang looked at her and suddenly became a little nervous. "Mistress, please ask."


    Huo ShaoTing didn''t see Rong Dai aftering out of the kitchen, thinking she had gone upstairs. He went to the bedroom to take a look but didn''t see her shadow either, so his eyebrows immediately knitted together. He went back downstairs to look for her, and upon hearing people talking in the garden, he walked over.


    "So...is my rtionship with ShaoTing really not good?"


    Rong Dai asked with difficulty. After hearing Huo Mei Shu''s usations, she knew these things were almost certainly true.


    But she didn''t expect the original owner to be so vicious!


    She sold the gifts from the little sister-inw, little uncle, grandmother, and mother-inw!


    And she even rented a house outside, which was why the Huo family didn''t know when the original owner went to the hospital.


    Rong Dai felt a chill down her spine. She was also a little confused about what exactly the original owner wanted to do.


    Mrs. Wang looked at her in bewilderment: "Mistress, don''t you know these things best?"


    The mistress did all these things herself, so why was she asking her instead?


    Rong Dai had long prepared her excuse and immediately gave a wry smile to exin: "I just want to know if I''m really that horrible. Isn''t this self-reflection? So I want to ask Mrs. Wang, it seems I was indeed wrong and went overboard before."


    The rotten mess the original owner left her was really too great!


    She didn''t even know who else the original owner had contact with outside of the Huo family!


    Thinking of these things, Rong Dai felt a chill run through her hands and feet.


    Huo ShaoTing stood in the dark corner and could hear Rong Dai and Mrs. Wang''s conversation very clearly.


    What was going on with this woman?


    She did these things herself, so how could she ask Mrs. Wang instead?

 Chapter 35: The Original Owner鈥檚 Lover

    <h4>Chapter 35</h4>


    "Thank you Mrs. Wang. This matter...could you please not mention it to anyone else?" Although Rong Dai still wanted to ask more, she had already asked too much about "herself", so if she revealed anything, it would be even more troublesome.


    Mrs. Wang nodded. Seeing Rong Dai being so polite, she hesitated for a moment before earnestly advising her, "Madam, from an outsider''s perspective, the Huo familycks nothing. However, there was once a very difficult period for the Huo family. Young Master worked very hard from taking over thepany to now being able to stand on his own."


    "Sometimes Young Master may not be very considerate. Since you are his wife, please be more understanding, Madam. I watched all three children grow up. When Young Master was little, he followed Old Madam to learn how to manage thepany. Such a young child, while others were ying, he had to study thepany''s affairs."


    Mrs. Wang sighed. She had been in the Huo family for many years and still felt the most heartache for Huo Shaoting.


    "Mrs. Wang, I will, thank you for the reminder," Rong Dai also nodded. She was just being polite with what she said.


    Although there was no possibility between Huo Shaoting and Wen Shn anymore, the two of them would still divorce after a year.


    Caring about Huo Shaoting''s matters should naturally be left to his future wife. It had nothing to do with her.


    What was most urgent now was that she had to figure out some things. Why did the original owner sell those things and even rent an apartment outside?


    Did the original have something else going on before her death?


    The unknown was always the scariest. Especially with the original''s series of actions, it was simply appalling!


    If an ordinary person could marry into a wealthy family, wouldn''t they eagerly try to solidify their status by having children or thinking of ways to please the inws?


    Yet this original, she had offended all of the inws!


    Hearing the two finish speaking, Huo Shaoting turned around and went back.


    With a restless heart, Rong Dai returned to the bedroom, unaware that Huo Shaoting had been watching her the entire time.


    She was still worried about what Mrs. Wang and Huo Meishu said. The original sold those things, but where was the money?


    "What were you talking to Mrs. Wang about?" He suddenly spoke.


    Rong Dai had things on her mind. Hearing his voice so abruptly, she was instantly frightened, her face pale.


    "Nothing, just some minor things." Although she felt strangely uneasy inside, her experience as an empress for thirty years still remained, so she would not be coerced by just a sentence from him.


    "Why don''t you...go take a bath first?" She changed the subject, not wanting to say too much to Huo Shaoting. She needed time to organize her own thoughts.


    Huo Shaoting looked at her, knowing she was diverting the topic. Looking at the woman before him, he had an illusion that the one now and the past one werepletely different people.


    He didn''t even know why he would have such an absurd idea. This feeling grew stronger after hearing her ask Mrs. Wang about her own matters.


    "Hm," he did not make things difficult for her. In any case, they had plenty of time. No matter what secrets she had, he had the patience to slowly uncover them.


    Seeing Huo Shaoting go into the bathroom, and soon the sound of water could be heard, Rong Dai finally wiped the cold sweat from her forehead and let out a deep breath.


    She had just wanted to sort out the messy thoughts in her mind when she heard a cell phone vibrating in the desk drawer.


    She went over and opened the drawer to see a small, delicate pink phone. It was also a very old model.


    With such a romantic color, this phone in their bedroom certainly wouldn''t belong to Huo Shaoting. So it could only be the original''s.


    Seeing the phone continuously vibrating, she had no choice but to pick it up. She saw several messages that had been sent.


    Reading each one carefully, cold sweat began rolling down her forehead.


    The messages were all from the same person, and the words and tone were very intimate. Clearly this person had a close rtionship with the original.


    "Dear, I''m about toe back from Bali soon. Have you missed me? I got you gifts. I just withdrew all the money from that card."


    "Dear, I miss you so much! I can''t wait toy in your arms and sleep, to caress you. Do you miss me too?"


    "Dear, how much longer do we have to wait? This money is enough for us to spend already. Why don''t you divorce him? I really can''t be without you."


    p!


    As Rong Dai read the shocking messages one by one, her mind buzzed, as if countless bees had flown in.


    She felt her blood run cold, almost freezing.


    Did the original agree to marry Huo Shaoting just to obtain his wealth?


    Who was this person?


    What was his rtionship with the original?


    Countless questions swirled in Rong Dai''s mind. Her heart nearly jumped out of her throat!


    If Huo Shaoting found out about this, no, if any Huo family member knew, she would be doomed!


    Forget just being kicked out, if the Huo family got angry and used her of fraudulent marriage and extortion, then wouldn''t she be finished?


    She was thinking about what to do when she heard the bathroom door open. In a panic, she grabbed the phone and stuffed it into her pocket.


    "You''re done with your bath? Then I''ll go take one."


    Rong Dai hadpletely forgotten about the previous awkwardness between them. She practically fled into the bathroom.


    She swiftly locked the door and sat on the toilet to examine the phone.


    Nearly two hundred messages in total. After reading just over a dozen, she didn''t dare continue.


    The reason was unimportant now. Just based on these messages, the Huo family could condemn her to death!


    She never imagined the original would actually dare to deceive someone like Huo Shaoting!


    How gutsy did one have to be to y such a game?


    She felt uneasy. Looking at the iing message on the phone, she hesitated for a moment before sending a neutral response.


    The content was very simple: "I''m going to sleep now. We''ll talk about anything tomorrow. I don''t want to disturb the family''s rest."


    She waited nearly two minutes without a reply. Just as she was about to undress and bathe, a message came in.


    The content made her frown. Why did the tone seem so angry, as ifmanding her?


    Before she could think through the issue, a phone call came in.


    Rong Dai hesitated, subconsciously ncing at the bathroom door. She turned on the shower, before cautiously answering the call.


    "Xiao Dai, what do you mean by this? You went back to the Huo family?"


    As soon as the call connected, an angry female voice was heard without Rong Dai even speaking.


    A woman?


    Hearing this voice, Rong Dai''s half-dead heart eased up a little.


    The original had really screwed her over. What was she even doing?


    But she didn''t understand why two women were speaking so intimately, as if they were lovers.

 Chapter 36: Hurry Up and Have a Baby

    <h4>Chapter 36</h4>


    Rong Dai took a deep breath to calm herself down. Fortunately, it was a woman. If it had been a man, she really wouldn''t have known how to handle this situation.


    "Some things have happened recently that I can''t talk about over the phone. Let''s discuss it when you get back," she said.


    Even though it was a woman, she couldn''t let her guard down.


    Based on the information from earlier, whenever Little Sister and Little Brother Huo sent things to the original owner, she would take everything and sell it off. That must be how the items ended up in this woman''s hands.


    Especially those words in the messages��they were simply outrageous!


    Just what was the original owner thinking?


    From her interactions over this time, although they had been nerve-wracking, she could sense that the Huo family had good upbringing.


    The only thing to me was the original owner''s many problems, which made the Huo family lose trust and patience in her.


    Although those items were worthless to the Huo family, they represented thoughtfulness.


    But not only did the original owner not appreciate that thoughtfulness, she wantonly trampled on it. Anyone would be disgusted by that, right?


    "Alright, I''ll listen to your exnation when I get back," Rong Dai said.


    Over the phone, the woman''s tone had abruptly turned 180 degrees, bing a bit overbearing.


    Rong Dai was puzzled, but she didn''t have time to analyze it further. She hurriedly hung up the phone and turned it offpletely, just to be safe.


    When she came out of the shower, Huo Shao Ting was leaning against the bed reading a book, dressed in loungewear.


    He wore a pair of silver-rimmed sses. His features were sharp like they had been chiseled, masculine yet cold. His hair was still damp from his shower, with a few strands falling onto his forehead.


    He looked so quiet like this, his temperament especially charming.


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment. She hurriedly wrapped her loungewear tightly around herself.


    She wasn''t used to the undergarments that women wore in this time period. She was only wearing a robe, and had just remembered that there was a man in the bedroom when she came out.


    "Um... I''ll just sleep on the couch. You should sleep early too," Rong Dai said softly when she saw him look up. She immediately averted her gaze and started heading for the couch.


    "Come here," Huo Shao Ting said coolly, ncing at her briefly before taking out his grandmother''s WeChat from his bedside table and handing it to her.


    "If Granny sees us like this, do you think she''ll believe we''re husband and wife?"


    Rong Dai was at a loss for words. Hesitating, she still walked over.


    Huo Shao Ting slid over ordingly, his expression impassive.


    Seeing how cold he was, Rong Dai felt a bit annoyed with herself. If he reallycked femalepany, there would be plenty of women throwing themselves at him. What was she being so modest for? It wasn''t as if she had no experience.


    With this thought, the burden and estrangement in her heart dissipated.


    Huo Shao Ting was also a bit surprised that she was so cooperative. He stretched out an arm for her to lean on.


    Although they were husband and wife, this was the first time they had been in such close contact with each other. For a moment, both their breaths stalled slightly.


    As soon as the video call connected, they saw Granny still looking lively and vigorous, enjoying delicacies with several olddies.


    "Granny," Rong Dai said sweetly, leaning her head slightly on his shoulder due to the pressure.


    Although they were both wearing silk robes, the fabric was thin. Leaning on him like this, she could still feel his warmth.


    Rong Dai was extremely awkward. Her whole body was tense. One of her legs had even started to tingle and go numb.


    But Granny was very happy to see them leaning against each other, eyes shining brightly.


    "Shao Ting, you''re not young anymore either. While Rong Rong is still young, you should hurry and have a child. It will help her body recover sooner too. I just want to see my great-grandchild before I die. Shao Jie has no sense of responsibility��can''t count on him. I''m relying on you two."


    Facing Granny''s urging them to have a child, Rong Dai was thoroughly embarrassed. She was only focused on talking to Granny and had forgotten that she was wearing just the thin robe.


    Her slender, fair neck and chest were also snowy white, exuding allure.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze wasn''t on the phone but lowered to look at her. Seeing this dazzling expanse of white, his throat tightened inexplicably and he felt parched. A certain part of his body even reacted.


    But Rong Dai didn''t notice. After finishing her conversation with Granny, she immediately rxed with relief, forgetting that she had been tense.


    With this sudden movement, her numb body slumped toward Huo Shao Ting uncontrobly.


    Two unbelievable soft mounds pressed against his firm chest, and they both froze in that instant!


    Rong Dai was extremely embarrassed. Due to her awkwardness, her cheeks flushed slightly red, looking especially tempting under the warm yellowmplight.


    She was like a pink rosebud on the verge of blooming, awaiting a destined person to pluck her.


    She wanted to get up, but her numb body wouldn''t listen to her will. The more she struggled, the more awkward it became.


    Huo Shao Ting was also somewhat at a loss due to this sudden ident, his body''s intense reaction making him very ufortable.


    "I...I didn''t mean to. My body just went numb," Rong Dai quickly exined when she saw him frown, thinking he was unhappy.


    Bang!


    Right after she finished speaking, the bedroom door suddenly opened!


    Rong Dai was startled. She turned to look and saw Huo Shao Ting''s gaze darken. He reached out to grasp her head and turn it back.


    "Mother, what are you trying to do sote?" Huo Shao Ting asked coolly, looking at Lu Zheng standing furiously yet bewildered in the doorway. His tone contained a hint of cold sarcasm.


    Lu Zheng never expected to see them in such a position. Her old face couldn''t help but fall. Although furious inside, she suppressed her anger and said heavily, "Continue. We''ll talk tomorrow."


    After speaking, she mmed the door shut.


    The bedroom became extremely quiet. Rong Dai''s expression was painfully awkward. She wasn''t an innocent young girl unaware of worldly matters. Leaning so intimately against Huo Shao Ting like this, anyone seeing it would think in that direction.


    She had to keep her body tensed while also wanting to pull away, but her numb body simply wouldn''t obey her will.


    With a thud, her head crashed into Huo Shao Ting''s chest again, dazing herpletely!


    "S-sorry, I..." Rong Dai wished she could dig a hole and bury herself!


    This man had a first-ss physique. His refreshing scent was even a bit intoxicating. She could even clearly hear his strong, powerful heartbeat.


    "You sleep on the bed," Huo Shao Ting said deeply after inhaling heavily several times. His body''s moring made him feel on the verge of explosion. This was a sensation he had never experienced before.


    Especially with Rong Dai''s struggles, the intimacy with just a thinyer of clothing separating them drove him crazy. He didn''t doubt his own self-control, but this kind of intense physiological reaction wasn''t something he could control.


    Rong Dai only felt her head sink lightly into the soft mattress. Huo Shao Ting had already gotten up from the bed and headed for the couch.

 Chapter 37: The Mother-in-law Attitude

    <h4>Chapter 37</h4>


    Rong Dai looked at Huo Shao Ting''s back. His tall body looked cramped lying on the sofa.


    She shifted her numb body a little and felt much better after a while.


    She had originally wanted Huo Shao Ting toe back and sleep on the bed while she took the sofa, but he had his back to her, clearly not wanting to talk.


    She sighed lightly and also turned to go to sleep. There were still things that needed handling tomorrow.


    She had to conserve her energy given that Mother-In-Law was clearly very annoyed and who knew what battles awaited at first light tomorrow.


    Rong Dai slept exceptionally well that night since she didn''t have to sleep on the sofa. She barely dreamed and woke up naturally early in the morning.


    This time she didn''t forget that Huo Shao Ting was still in the bedroom. She turned and looked towards the sofa, and as expected, Huo Shao Ting was no longer there. The bathroom was silent, so he had likely gotten up very early.


    She nced at the rm clock on the nightstand. It was just past six.


    She thought about it. Last night��s matter was very serious.


    Although it was Huo Shao Ting who had made Mother cry, the real culprit was the original owner, her current self.


    Huo Shao Ting was their elder brother. No matter how much they fought, they were still family. To them, she was just an outsider.


    Whether Huo Shao Ting had intentionally or unintentionally caused the situationst night, the matter had already blown up. She could only try to resolve it now.


    With these thoughts swirling in her mind, Rong Dai got out of bed and quickly washed up before going downstairs to the kitchen.


    "Mrs. Wang, what''s for breakfast today?" she asked, seeing Mrs. Wang busy cooking breakfast in the kitchen. She wanted to pitch in and do something as well.


    After all, the way to one''s heart is through their stomach. No matter the circumstances, she had to show willingness.


    As for the original owner��s prior actions, she could only deal with them one by one. Getting through the present hurdle came first.


    Mrs. Wang saw that she was up so early and replied, "Thedy and young miss like millet porridge, the young master likes soy milk. They''re all simple breakfasts. The kitchen is smokey, mydy should go wait outside."


    Rong Dai looked at Mrs. Wang adeptly operating the appliances in the kitchen. She still insisted on helping with breakfast after thinking about it.


    Seeing her determination, and recalling Lu Zheng��s angry expression when she returned upstairsst night, Mrs. Wang guessed something must have happened.


    She didn''t reject Rong Dai''s offer, and the two got busy in the kitchen.


    By the time Rong Dai carefully prepared breakfast, she was drenched in sweat.


    "Mom, Shao Jie, Mei Shu, you''re up!"


    She happened to see the mother and childrening down the stairs just as she exited the kitchen. Huo Mei Shu looked haggard, with swollen red eyes, having evidently cried hardst night.


    Lu Zheng''s face was gloomy, and even Huo Shao Jie looked solemn.


    Seeing their expressions, Rong Dai felt a chill run down her spine, her body tensing up instinctively.


    "Humph, don''t call me mom. I''m not worthy of it, am I?" Lu Zheng shot her an icy look, anger still evident in her voice.


    "What are you saying, mom? Let''s alle eat breakfast first. I''m not very skilled in cooking, so I don''t know if it will suit your tastes." Rong Dai quickly cated her with an apologetic smile, pulling out chairs and looking eagerly at Lu Zheng.


    Mrs. Wang echoed in agreement, "That''s right, thedy got up early to make breakfast in the kitchen. She worked very hard."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at Rong Dai in disgust. "Since you don''t know if it will suit our tastes, then don''t make it. Even your ingratiation is so perfunctory."


    Rong Dai''s smile grew strained. This little sister-inw clearly harbored immense resentment towards the original owner.


    Of course she knew her skills were taught by the head chef, so she was well aware of their quality.


    She had only been modest in her words. She didn''t expect it to be fodder for Huo Mei Shu to provoke her.


    "Mei Shu, I know you were wrongedst night, but can you give me a chance to exin?"


    Huo Mei Shu crossed her arms over her chest, looking at her contemptuously and mockingly. "Exin? That''s great, I''ll give you that chance today. Go ahead and exin properly."


    Rong Dai was taken aback, a sense of futility welling up inside. If she could exin things clearly now, the situationst night wouldn''t have happened in the first ce.


    "Let''s have breakfast first. This is sister-inw''s good intentions." Huo Shao Jie quickly smoothed things over, seeing her predicament.


    "Good intentions? Her intentions may be good, but are ours trash? Such great intentions, you all go ahead and eat. I certainly won''t!" Huo Mei Shu scoffed coldly before turning around and heading upstairs, not giving Rong Dai an ounce of face.


    Rong Dai felt a little helpless. This little sister-inw would be difficult to handle.


    It wasn''t that shecked means, but that she still didn''t fully understand everything that was going on. She didn''t dare make reckless moves for now.


    "Mom, Shao Jie, have a little something first. I''ll go upstairs and see how she''s doing."


    Although Huo Shao Jie knew what had happenedst night, he was also aware of what the elder sister-inw had done previously.


    And elder brother had been too harsh with his wordsst night as well.


    But seeing Rong Dai so obsequious now in order to curry favor with Huo Mei Shu, he suddenly felt that perhaps they had gone too far as well.


    "Mom, sit and eat first. Don''t get involved in these matters." Huo Shao Jie sat down and looked meaningfully at Lu Zheng.


    Lu Zheng had only heard the gist of things, but with her daughter aggrieved like this, how could she not be furious?


    Yet seeing Rong Dai''s current state, she also felt a little sympathy.


    She wasn''t the sort of unreasonable mother-inw who liked to make things difficult. She just hoped her daughter-inw would treat her son well.


    Of her three children, she felt she had wronged her eldest son the most.


    So even when she disliked Rong Dai initially, since her son had agreed to the marriage, she didn''t object.


    After Rong Dai joined the family, she also properly fulfilled her mother-inw role and didn''t interfere in the young couple''s affairs.


    But she didn''t expect them to sleep in separate rooms right after getting married, and the things Rong Dai did really chilled her heart.


    However, she seemed to have had a change of heart these past few days, even disying improvement. Andst night...


    Recalling the scene she had identally intruded on in their bedroom, she didn''t want toplicate matters further. So she sat down to have breakfast.


    "Rong Dai, I hope you understand, once you married into this family, you became one of us. Divorce is unheard of in the Huo family. I only hope you can get along well with my son. As for these matters, I won''t interfere, but if you can''t handle them properly, even if it means offending the whole Huo family, I won''t keep you in this household."


    Seeing Rong Dai still standing there after sitting down, Lu Zheng decided to make things clear.


    Huo Shao Jie frowned slightly and nced at her, so Lu Zheng fell silent and started eating breakfast.


    Hearing these words, Rong Dai finally felt relieved. As long as her mother-inw wasn''t too upset, everything else could be discussed.


    "I understand, mother." She nodded and replied very seriously.

 Chapter 38: Meet the Lover

    <h4>Chapter 38</h4>


    "Remember what you said. You have to do it," Lu Zheng paused for a moment. Although her expression was still very cold, it was better than being angry.


    "Sit down and eat too. Rong Dai is in a bad mood. If you go up, you''ll only be mocked," she added.


    Rong Dai thought about it. Lu Zheng was right. Even if she wanted to exin to her sister-inw and make her stop holding a grudge over this matter, she had to get clear about what happened first, so she could figure out a way to cate her sister-inw.


    "Alright, mother," she nodded and sat down to eat breakfast too.


    Breakfast was eaten in an oppressive silence. After she helped Mrs. Wang take the dishes back to the kitchen, she saw Huo Mei Shuing down the stairs with a suitcase, looking as if she was going to run away from home.


    "Mei Shu, where are you going with that suitcase?" Rong Dai asked gingerly.


    "What''s it to you where I''m going?" Huo Mei Shu nted a re at her, still unfriendly.


    Rong Dai felt very awkward. When had she ever been mocked like this in her past life? After falling from her phoenix perch, she was living a life worse than a sparrow!


    "Mei Shu," Huo Shao Jie walked down holding some documents, frowned when he saw her talking like that again, and called out.


    Huo Mei Shu made a "tch" sound, dragged her suitcase and headed out.


    "Shao Jie, where is Mei Shu going?" If she really ran away from home, wouldn''t that make things very serious?


    Huo Shao Jie looked at her, his voice gentle and reassuring, "Sister-inw, don''t take it to heart. That''s just her personality. There are still some locations in the script we need to finalize, so I''m taking her out to clear her head. We''ll both be away these few days, and when she gets back, there won''t be any issues. Don''t worry."


    When Rong Dai heard this, she felt much more at ease.


    "You two take care then."


    Huo Shao Jie nodded, then took two name cards out of the file folder and handed them to her, "These are my and Lu Ying''s name cards. After the legal side confirms everything, Lu Ying might call you, so these few days, sister-inw, just stay home for now."


    Although these past few days, the video leak of her audition had generated a lot of hype for his new drama, it had also brought a lot of negative press for Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai understood what he meant. She took the name cards and nodded, seeing the two of them off before turning back upstairs.


    Back in the bedroom, she opened that pink cellphone.


    She wasn''t in the mood to deal with onlinementary at the moment. In this information age, even though some were sensationalizing this matter about her, it would quickly be buried under other news. Her most important task right now was figuring out who that woman wasst night and what her rtionship was with the original owner that they spoke so intimately.


    Thinking of the things that woman had saidst night, she couldn''t help breaking out in goosebumps all over.


    She then changed into more casual and bright colored clothes that highlighted her fair, luminousplexion, making her look full of energy.


    After tidying up her things, she sent a text on her phone, and soon received a reply of just three simple words: "the usual ce".


    What the hell kind of "usual ce" was this? The original owner had left her with such a mess but didn''t even give herplete memories, so how would she know what ce this was?


    She thought for a bit before replying: "Please give me the exact location."


    Right after she hit send, the phone rang almost immediately.


    "Little Dai, what do you mean? Our cozy little love nest that we''ve shared, you''re even asking me where it is? I was just away in Bali for a few days. Don''t tell me you''ve found a new lover?"


    The woman''s tone on the other end was very displeased, even vaguely angry.


    "I''ve been busytely, what''s wrong with asking you to send me a location?"


    Rong Dai was already frustrated these past two days. Hearing the other person take that condescending tone with her, she also got a little angry.


    She couldn''t afford to offend the Huo family, but did she have to suffer indignities from outsiders too?


    If that was the case, then she wouldn''t be Rong Dai!


    "Fine, I got it!" The woman''s attitude on the phone was extremely nasty. She said curtly and immediately sent over a very specific address.


    Looking at the address, she specially searched it on her other phone.


    It was an extremely high-end residential area. The original owner rented a ce here?


    With many questions in mind, Rong Dai felt extremely uneasy. She had to figure out what exactly was going on!


    To avoid the Huo family knowing, she could only call a car over. This used up the little cash she had left.


    The security guards in this estate clearly recognized her, smiling and greeting her, even opening the unit door for her.


    Rong Dai politely thanked them, but felt heavy at heart.


    Things were obviously much more serious than she had imagined. This clearly wasn''t a ce the original owner had rented only after getting married. It must have been rented long ago, otherwise how could the security guard recognize her at a nce?


    She went upstairs and rang the doorbell.


    It rang for a very long time before the door opened.


    A thick, choking perfume smell hit her right away, and Rong Dai''s stomach lurched. She almost threw up.


    But she held it in and looked at the woman before her eyes.


    She had just showered evidently, as she was drying her hair. Seeing Rong Dai arrive, she spoke very coldly, as if angry.


    Rong Dai didn''t take offense and followed her into the room.


    The house was luxuriously furnished. Although she wasn''t very familiar with luxury goods in this era, luxury was most obvious in the quality that made it recognizable at a nce.


    Everything in this house was extremely luxurious.


    She didn''t forget her purpose foring. Her gaze sized up the woman before her eyes - probably 35 or 36 years old.


    But she kept her figure very well, graceful and charming, a very feminine woman.


    "Little Dai, what exactly do you mean? Didn''t we agree that after I came back from Bali, we would run away together? Why did you still go audition? You''re not suited for that. Didn''t we agree to keep a low profile?"


    Zuo Ran felt her mood was off. An inexplicable anger rose in her heart. She extremely disliked this feeling of everything slipping out of her control.


    Rong Dai just looked at her silently. She wanted to know what exactly was going on. Why did the original owner have ties with such an older woman?


    "Back then when your mother entrusted you to me, was I not dutiful and responsible enough? I gave so much for you mother and daughter. I love you two so much. I know it hurt you to marry a man, but our future lives need money. If you didn''t marry into the Huo family, what other way was there?"


    Seeing her so silently, Zuo Ran''s frown deepened even more.

 Chapter 39: She鈥檚 not Allowed to like Men.

    <h4>Chapter 39</h4>


    ��My mother entrusted me to you?�� Rong Dai grabbed the key point and looked straight into the other��s eyes to ask back.


    The memories left to her by the original owner were all fragmented. She didn��t have any impression at all about the original owner��s mother from those memories.


    But from what she knew about the Huo family, the original owner��s mother had saved the old mistress'' life.


    To repay her, the old mistress promised her when she was on her deathbed to take good care of the original owner.


    And the old mistress�� understanding of ��taking good care�� was to have the original owner marry Huo Shao Ting, and so the two got married.


    Although this sounded very strange,pared to what this woman in front of her said about the original owner��s mother entrusting her to her, why would the original owner��s mother go through so much trouble?


    In other words, if this woman in front of her was trustworthy, the original owner��s mother wouldn��t have needed to say that one sentence to the old mistress at all. She could have just asked for money aspensation, which the Huo family would have given.


    With the Huo family��s wealth, thepensation would have definitely been arge sum.


    Rong Dai analyzed it in her mind, and became wary of this woman.


    Sure enough, she saw a fleeting trace of guilt sh through Zuo Ran��s eyes.


    There was definitely something fishy about this matter.


    ��Little Dai, what do you mean by saying this? Don��t you love me anymore? You chose to be with a man?��


    Zuo Ran seemed to be greatly shocked, her gaze fixed tightly on Rong Dai, with a hint of obsession and possessiveness that wasn��t very obvious.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly. Love her? The original owner loved a woman?


    Although she was greatly shocked inside, she had seen this kind of gaze from Zuo Ran before, on Wen Shi Lan when she looked at Huo Shao Ting.


    It was a gaze of obsession, admiration and intense possessiveness.


    Although Wen Shi Lan was very restrained, Rong Dai had always been best at analyzing subtle expressions.


    Otherwise, she wouldn��t have been able to steadily hold the position of Empress for thirty years in her past life.


    ��Isn��t it normal for me to choose to be with a man? I need a normal family life.��


    She didn��t answer directly, but threw the question back at the other person. She needed to know more details to understand what was going on.


    ��Rong Dai!��


    She didn''t expect that as soon as she said this, the other person seemed to go mad and rushed at her!


    Rong Dai was greatly frightened and hurriedly retreated, but Zuo Ran was relentless. Seeing that she couldn''t get to Rong Dai, she directly reached out to grab her hair, her face twisted and vicious.


    ��We''re not normal now?! Tell me! Weren''t we fine before? If you want a child, we can adopt one! I won''t allow you to fall for a man, I absolutely won''t allow it!��


    Zuo Ran''s gaze was fierce, her voice a little hysterical.


    Rong Dai waspletely stunned! At the same time, she seemed to understand something.


    Although this kind of thing was too shameful to talk about openly, in her past life she was not entirely unaware of it.


    The pce eunuchs had to remain celibate, and the pce maids were also lonely. Some kept each otherpany, while others chose to be with other maids.


    Although this was a taboo in the inner pce, as the Empress she naturally could not be kept in the dark about such things happening in the pce.


    At that time, she didn''t pay too much attention to these matters, dismissing them as nonsense.


    People had the seven emotions and six desires. It was normally believed that men liked women, and women liked men as well. This was considered the norm by most people.


    But desires could not be controlled. Who one liked was just a matter of personal preference, and others really had no right to interfere.


    But she never imagined that the original owner actually had this kind of orientation!


    Liking women!


    To Rong Dai, this was simply a bolt from the blue!


    "Cough...let go first, and let''s talk nicely!"


    Rong Dai''s scalp felt like it was being peeled off from Zuo Ran grabbing her hair!


    "You said you''d never leave me. I won''t let you leave! Rong Dai, you can only be mine for the rest of your life! Mine! Do you understand?"


    But Zuo Ran seemed not to hear her at all. Her grip was extraordinarily strong. She took advantage of Rong Dai being unprepared and pinned her down, her knees tightly pressing Rong Dai��s hands. Her gaze looking at Rong Dai was mad and stubborn!


    She was even taking off her clothes, revealing an extremely curvaceous figure.


    Rong Dai''s head buzzed. What was she experiencing here?!


    In her past life, she was still a tigress of a prestigious family, skilled in riding and archery, and knew some fist and footwork too. She immediately threw a punch at Zuo Ran!


    "Ow!"


    Zuo Ran cried out in pain, curling up into a ball. She immediately let go.


    Rong Dai didn''t even think before turning to leave.


    She more or less understood what was going on now. This woman was simply deranged!


    From her words, it seemed the original owner was not attracted to women at all. Otherwise, why would the other person suddenly be so frenzied?!


    Rong Dai��s heart thumped violently, and her whole body shook a little anxiously. In either her past or present life, this was the first time she had encountered something like this.


    No matter how calm she was, she couldn''t withstand the shock this brought her!


    "Want to leave? I won''t let you! I''ve always catered to your wishes. How dare you go and like a man?! Today I will have you!"


    Just as she was about to open the door, a sharp pain came from the back of her head! Her whole scalp tightened, and she could even clearly hear the sounds of strands of hair being pulled out!


    Rong Dai was dragged to the floor. Zuo Ran took the opportunity to straddle her, pinning down her arms with her knees. Her gaze looking at Rong Dai was mad and stubborn!


    She was even taking off her clothes, revealing an extremely curvaceous figure.


    Rong Dai''s mind buzzed. What was she experiencing here?!


    Sheshed out with her long legs, ignoring the pain in her hamstrings. She sessfully flung Zuo Ran off of her!


    She grabbed her bag and ran towards one of the rooms, quickly locking it behind her!


    Bang bang bang!


    The sound of pounding on the door, the vibrations from the impact made Rong Dai break out in a cold sweat on her back!


    She looked around and was shocked to find the room was stered with countless photos of the original owner in all kinds of poses!


    These photos were all extremely revealing!


    She waspletely numb. Leaning heavily against the door with slightly shaking hands, she reflexively called Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting, who was in a meeting, frowned slightly when he saw her calling in. He gestured for the meeting to pause and answered her call.


    "Shao Ting! Are you free now? I...I''m in trouble!"


    Rong Dai''s voice conveyed panic. Not only could he hear the fear in her crying voice, but also the loud banging on the door.


    His expression instantly turned icy cold, and a fierce ruthlessness flickered between his brows. His voice was low as he asked her, "Where are you?"


    This kind of situation would never happen at the Huo residence.


    "I...I''m at the address I sent you before."


    At any other time, her memory was outstanding. But today, her mind waspletely nk.


    In a panic, she fumbled out the pink cell phone. Following the address on it, she sent it to Huo Shao Ting.


    After hanging up, the door behind her was still being pounded, again and again. The mad woman kept yelling while not ceasing her pounding.


    Rong Dai looked at her disheveled state, heart thumping wildly.

 Chapter 40: Not a Good Bite

    <h4>Chapter 40</h4>


    "Open the door! Open the door right now!"


    Zuo Ran was like a madwoman, grabbing a chair and smashing it furiously against the door. Her voice was shrill and angry!


    Rong Dai hid in the room, her heart pounding along with the banging on the door. Her palms were drenched in sticky sweat.


    She never imagined that the original owner would be controlled by such a deranged person!


    She called Huo Shao Ting, believing he woulde very soon.


    But how was she going to exin this?


    Although this was done by the original owner and had nothing to do with her, she now inhabited this body - she was Rong Dai.


    Even she could not ept this matter, how would Huo Shao Ting react when he found out?


    This would be an enormous shock for any man, right?


    Rong Dai felt a chill down her back. The original owner had not left her many memories about this madwoman, not even a tiny scrap.


    Things hade to this, she may as well die!


    She made up her mind and saw the table in the room. She hurriedly pushed it over to brace against the door - otherwise that banging would surely break through the door.


    In her haste, the drawer slipped out and its contents scattered across the floor.


    Apart from a few diaries, there were mostly explicit photographs of the original owner. Judging by the angles, most seemed to be taken secretly.


    Not only that, she even saw photos of the original owner''s mother. The photos of the original owner''s mother were even more horrifying than those of the original owner -pletely naked, some even...extremely hard to look at.


    Rong Dai''s heart raced and her body turned cold.


    It seemed her guess was right. The original owner''s mother must not have trusted this madwoman, otherwise she would not have entrusted her daughter to the olddy.


    The banging and shouting outside continued. Rong Dai no longer had the heart to read further. She hurriedly stuffed the diaries into her bag, straining to listen to the sounds outside.


    "Come over here now! I want people here immediately! Right away! This despicable slut actually dared to betray me!"


    Zuo Ran outside was also drenched in sweat. With one hand on her hip, her face was twisted in malevolence as she made calls to people.


    Hearing this, Rong Dai felt a chill down her spine. The other party was clearly calling people over to break down the door.


    It seemed this matter was not so simple. If the original owner''s mother could have gotten away from this woman, she would have done so long ago, definitely not dragging it out.


    But now it was obvious that this madwoman held some leverage over the mother and daughter.


    Rong Dai felt a sh of viciousness and forced herself to calm down. Before Huo Shao Ting arrived, she had to stabilize the situation first. She absolutely could not let that madwoman get close to her again!


    Zuo Ran stared at the closed door, her gaze furious and deranged. After hanging up the phone, a hint of cruelness appeared at the corner of her mouth!


    She had spent so much effort on this mother and daughter, how could she possibly let them escape from her hands?


    She wanted them to be hers even after death!


    Rong Dai was still thinking inside the room when she suddenly heard an unusual sound at the door. She looked back to see the door lock jiggling.


    Her heart thudded violently. Seeing the bed in the bedroom, she swiftly moved the table away.


    In the most dangerous times, people can burst forth with unimaginable strength. With great difficulty, she moved the bed to brace against the door by herself, then wedged the table against the wall at the foot of the bed.


    "Wretched woman!"


    Zuo Ran had pried open the lock with an electric drill, but had not expected Rong Dai to react so quickly and block the door with the bed!


    "Just what are you trying to do?!"


    Rong Dai could no longer hold back and angrily demanded.


    "What am I trying to do? I want you to never be able to leave me your whole life!"


    Zuo Ran gave a coldugh, an extremely deranged smile appearing through the small hole as she stared at Rong Dai.


    For a moment, Rong Dai felt the hairs on her neck stand up!


    This was no woman, this was a pure madwoman!


    Utterly insane!


    "That''s impossible! I''m married, how could I possibly be with you? If not for your threats, I would never have done those things willingly!"


    Although she knew the other was insane, Rong Dai was temporarily safe. As long as she could hold this door, she had a chance until Huo Shao Ting arrived.


    When people go mad, they tend to speak the truth.


    She had to get to the bottom of whether or not the original owner was really interested in women!


    If not, then even if Huo Shao Ting found out about this, it would not be too disastrous.


    If so, she also had to get rid of this as quickly as possible. After all, this was her body now.


    If such inclinations were exposed, she dared not imagine how the world would look upon her. She might even be unable to continue living here.


    She had to admit, having her rationality back gave Rong Dai courage again.


    "So what?! This is what your damned mother owed me! She''s dead, so you should repay her debt! If I can''t have you, I''ll destroy you!"


    Zuo Ran responded madly, the intense possessiveness in her voice was obvious!


    Hearing such words, Rong Dai gasped. At the same time, her heart settled down quite a bit.


    Fortunately things had not gone in the worst direction, the original owner was not actually inclined that way.


    No matter what entanglements the original owner''s mother had with this madwoman, Rong Dai did not know this madwoman. She had to take this chance topletely cut ties with her!


    Perhaps it would not necessarily be a bad thing if Huo Shao Ting found out about this matter. After all, with her current abilities, Rong Dai could not resolve this herself.


    She was toozy to bother with Zuo Ran''s ravings. She blocked the small hole in the lock with an object.


    She took out her phone and photographed everything in the room. To resolve this, going through legal means seemed the only way.


    When looking up marriagews, she had also browsed some basic legal statutes. What this madwoman was doing already infringed upon her rights.


    Then she took out the diaries and found the one that recorded things about the original owner.


    This was excellent evidence. Every meeting with the original owner, everything done, all clearly recorded by the madwoman.


    Only after reading the diary did Rong Dai find out this madwoman was called Zuo Ran.

 Chapter 41: Set Her on Fire

    <h4>Chapter 41</h4>


    Rong Dai had just flipped through a few pages. Although she now understood what had happened, her heart was still trembling and her whole body was still sweating profusely.


    No wonder the original owner had that kind of personality. She had beenpletely controlled by this mad woman, like a puppet on a string, at the mad woman''s beck and call!


    Rong Dai didn''t know what the original owner''s intentions were when she married Huo Shao Ting, but she guessed that the original owner had also wanted to escape from this predicament.


    Although she would have food and clothing, her spirit and body were being coerced. Although Zuo Ran, this mad woman, hadn''tid a hand on her yet, this was undoubtedly shackling the original owner in every way!


    Rong Dai''s heart shuddered again and again. This was simply insane!


    Fortunately, Zuo Ran''s twisted mentality wanted to nurture a vish nature in the original owner, so she hadn''t made a move yet.


    This was also somewhat reassuring to her. Otherwise, she really wouldn''t have been able to ept that this body had been ravaged by a mad woman like this.


    Her phone suddenly received a message. She opened it and saw it was from Huo Shao Ting. He was already on his way here.


    Rong Dai quickly replied, telling him to bring a few police officers he could trust.


    Even if it was humiliating today, or even if Huo Shao Ting would divorce her on the spot, she had to resolve this matter cleanly today!


    Otherwise, dragging it out would undoubtedly lead to endless trouble.


    She believed that even if Huo Shao Ting was furious about this, he would still help her handle it well for the sake of keeping face.


    Although she was being a little calcting, with her current abilities, she was truly powerless in this matter.


    Fortunately, this had been discovered early. Otherwise, if she found out about it after divorcing Huo Shao Ting in the future, she would be in big trouble!


    When Huo Shao Ting saw her reply, the sinister look in his eyes didn''t disappear. Instead, it became even more concentrated.


    What on earth had happened to this woman?


    Ten minutes had passed since he received her call. Of course he wouldn''t be so stupid as to go alone. He had brought half of the security personnel from thepany with him.


    But this woman had even said she wanted the police.


    Rong Dai didn''t receive a reply from him for a long time, and there was no movement outside the door either. This made her even more worried instead.


    No news wasn''t necessarily good news.


    She thought about it and quickly wrote back: "Evidence is needed. I''ll exin it to you slowly afterwards. Please believe me."


    By this point, she could only try her best to win Huo Shao Ting''s trust.


    In the Huo family, she couldn''t rely on her mother-inw. Her grandmother-inw wasn''t home either. Her uncle-inw and aunt-inw were even more unreliable.


    So the only person she could rely on was Huo Shao Ting, her nominal husband.


    Sitting in the car, Huo Shao Ting saw her message. His brows were twisted into knots. After hesitating for a few seconds, he made a phone call. Then he sent back a simple "OK" to her.


    Seeing such a terse reply, Rong Dai let out a deep breath of relief in her heart.


    Just as she had just put her phone in her bag, she caught a whiff of smoke. She quickly turned back and saw wisps of blue smoke drifting in through the cracks in the door.


    This woman was insane!


    Was she trying to burn her to death?!


    "Zuo Ran! You lunatic, killing me won''t get you anything!"


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but yell angrily. She quickly thought of a way out. If this continued burning, she would be choked to death by the smoke before the door even opened!


    "So what? If you die, I can just go down and apany you mother and daughter!" Zuo Ran''s insane and creepy words came from outside the door.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but want to curse, no matter how good her upbringing was.


    "I said, neither you nor your mother can betray me. You''re mine! You can only ever be mine!"


    Zuo Ran cackled maniacally in the living room. Herughter was especially creepy.


    "Sis, if the neighbors find out about this, they''ll call the police and you''ll be finished!"


    Just as Rong Dai was wondering how to deal with this, she seemed to hear several peoplee in outside. A man spoke, then she heard the sound of people putting out the fire with water.


    She breathed a slight sigh of relief at this point, but before she could fully rx, her heart started pounding again!


    Because it was men who hade this time, and there were several of them!


    How could this door stop them?!


    Rong Dai really hadn''t expected that her rebirth would be so bumpy. Not only was her marriage not going smoothly, she had also encountered such a horrifying lunatic!


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The banging on the door this time sounded very different from when Zuo Ran had banged on it. The force was clearly much greater, as if they were using hammers or axes.


    The banging was loud. To cover it up, music started ying in the living room.


    Rong Dai''s face turned pale with fear. Even in her previous life, she had never felt such despair and horror!


    This was on the tenth-something floor. She couldn''t exactly jump down.


    She looked around the room and hurried to the balcony for safety, closing the floor-to-ceiling ss door behind her.


    This was a high-end residential area. Looking down, the height made her legs go soft as her heart chilled again and again.


    Would her bumpy rebirth only be as ephemeral as a sh in the pan?


    A feeling of despair came over Rong Dai. Her face was so pale it was nearly transparent. Despite the zing sun, she couldn''t feel a hint of warmth in this hot weather. Instead, her whole body grew colder and colder.


    Downstairs, Huo Shao Ting had arrived with his men. More than ten people swiftly went upstairs. Rong Dai could see it clearly from the balcony. Tears nearly spilled from her eyes.


    She quickly squatted in a corner and took out her phone, quickly snapping a few photos and sending them over with a rough description of the situation in the room.


    In her extreme panic, Rong Dai didn''t realize she had also sent the photos she took earlier as evidence in the room.


    When Huo Shao Ting saw these photos, a cold glint shed through his eyes. Sensing this chill behind him, Zhang the assistant felt a chill run down his spine!


    "Go find the property manager toe rescue her from the balcony."


    Although many doubts swirled in his heart, Huo Shao Ting gave orders very calmly.


    That door wouldn''t hold for long. Although his men could subdue the people inside, getting them to open the door would take time, and subduing them would also take time.


    Dragging things out like this, if they broke down the door and grabbed her, they would only be passive.


    Zhang didn''t dare hesitate and immediately strode off to handle it.


    "Shao Ting, what exactly is going on here?" Lu Hong asked him. He had just gotten back from responding to a call this afternoon and hadn''t even had time to take a sip of water before Huo Shao Ting called him. He had rushed over with a few men but still didn''t understand what was happening.

 Chapter 42: Save Her

    <h4>Chapter 42</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were cold. He took out his phone and showed him the photos: "Saving people, resolving things."


    Simple and to the point, leaving Lu Hong speechless.


    Lu Hong looked at the photos on the phone, his expression also bing grave. He also realized the gravity of the situation.


    "Rescuing from the balcony is indeed the safest approach, but I''ll need some time to mobilize without protective measures."


    Huo Shao Ting nced outside. He could only rescue from the floor above, as the distance between balconies on the first floor was too far.


    But they couldn''t wait for Lu Hong''s people to arrive. The door wouldn''t hold for long.


    "There''s no time. Have someone from building management bring safety ropes. Once I seed here, immediately control the people in the room. I don''t want this getting out of hand."


    His voice was cold as he instructed. The property manager soon arrived, also realizing something was terribly wrong from the scene.


    After all, Huo Shao Ting was one of the top figures in Shenjing. His reputation preceded him.


    Lu Hong of course knew this couldn''t escte. He promptly ordered his colleagues while Huo Shao Ting brought his security team to get ropes and go upstairs.


    Though this was a high-end residentialplex, upancy wasn''t too high on this floor, so entering was quick.


    The security swiftly set up the safety ropes. Huo Shao Ting walked onto the balcony and leaned over. "Rong Dai?"


    Rong Dai was curled up in a corner, eyes fixed on the room''s sliding ss door where arge hole had been smashed open.


    She could clearly see Zuo Ran''s smug expression. Zuo Ran''s crazed gaze made her hands and feet go cold.


    There were also seven or eight brawny men with tattooed arms inside, clearly gangsters.


    If she fell into their hands, it would be a fate worse than death!


    She didn''t dare imagine what would have happened if she hadn''t urgently called Huo Shao Ting for help.


    Hearing Huo Shao Ting''s voice suddenly, she felt as if she had crossed worlds. Tears instantly welled up uncontrobly.


    "Huo Shao Ting, you came!"


    She looked up at him eagerly, tears streaming down her face. When she first returned to the past, she had felt this man was cold. But now, seeing him, her heart was filled with a sense of security, of warmth.


    "Are you okay? What''s the situation inside?"


    This was the first time Huo Shao Ting had seen her so panicked, face covered in tears. Something squeezed painfully in his chest, and his brows furrowed more severely!


    But his tone remained gentle, as if soothing a child, afraid to startle her.


    Rong Dai quickly shook her head, tears flowing nonstop.


    "I...I''m fine. They already smashed a big hole in the door." Her voice trembled uncontrobly.


    Though the inner pce in her past life had been sinister and dangerous, she had never encountered such peril. No matter how calm and clever she was, she was afraid.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were deep. Seeing her panic, tattered and bloodied, fury churned inside him!


    "Don''t panic. I''ll save you. You''ll be safe."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her, keeping his voice gentle.


    The security also lowered the prepared safety ropes. Rong Dai nodded and reached for the rope with trembling hands. When she saw the view below, she felt dizzy and stumbled.


    Huo Shao Ting watched closely from above, immediately frowning. He turned and asked the security, "Two people should be fine, but we need to be quick, or they could grab her and it''d be big trouble."


    "Boss, let me go down," his assistant Zhang said at once. Before bing Huo''s assistant, Zhang had been a famous security professional.


    Huo Shao Ting ignored him and started unbuttoning his shirt, tossing his suit jacket to Zhang.


    "Boss, it''s too dangerous. We''re your security. We can''t let you take the risk. We''ll safely rescue Madam."


    The security tried to stop him as well.


    But Huo Shao Ting loosened his tie and took off his shoes, giving them a sharp look. "Do your jobs." Then he strapped on the rope.


    Though the security wanted to protest further, Zhang stopped them with a look.


    He realized the boss wouldn''t feel assured unless he went himself.


    Besides, the boss had received extensive training. His abilities weren''t in doubt.


    Huo Shao Ting quickly rappelled down the balcony. Rong Dai hadn''t expected him toe and threw herself into his arms when she smelled his familiar crisp scent, propriety be damned.


    Clinging tightly to him, she didn''t say a word. The sense of security filled her entirely.


    "It''s okay now," Huo Shao Ting said, not having expected her to actively hug him. Her shoe stepped on his bare foot, making him frown slightly. Still, he gently stroked her hair.


    Only now did he realize her head had been smashed and blood had just congealed.


    He looked back at the room, eyes cold at the photos on the wall.


    "Let''s leave here first."


    He spoke lowly, crouching to strap the rope around her slender waist. One big hand held her tightly against his chest. Rong Dai also clung to him, not daring to look down.


    Seeing this, Zuo Ran inside flew into a rage. The thugs started wildly kicking the battered door, soon kicking it apartpletely.


    Zuo Ran charged out like a madwoman, screaming, "Rong Dai, you cheap slut! How dare you seduce a man!"


    She howled and grabbed at Rong Dai''s legs.


    Rong Dai panicked and reflexively kicked her in the forehead, sending her shoe flying!


    "Faster!" Zhang urged anxiously from above. The trained security quickly pulled them up.


    "You cheap slut! Just you wait! I''ll kill you!"


    Zuo Ran clutched her bleeding forehead, eyes zing with fury at the two before storming off the balcony.


    "Boss, give me your hand!" Zhang yelled, scared witless, hurriedly reaching to pull them up.


    "Get Madam up first," Huo Shao Ting said calmly, waiting until Rong Dai was safe before climbing up himself.


    Only when her feet touched the floor did Rong Daie back to her senses��she had been saved.


    Remembering the perilous scene, her legs went weak and she stumbled. Huo Shao Ting quickly caught her.


    "It''s over. Don''t worry, it''ll be handled. Trust me." Despite his confusion, his voice was gentle.


    Teary-eyed, Rong Dai leaned against him and nodded before fainting away.

 Chapter 43: Piss him Off

    <h4>Chapter 43</h4>


    "Stop the car! Stop now!"


    Huo Shao Ting had just put the unconscious Rong Dai in the car to take her to the hospital. At that moment, their car happened to brush past Wen Shi Lan''s car as they left the residential area.


    Huo Shao Ting''s attention waspletely on Rong Dai, so he naturally didn''t notice Wen Shi Lan. But Wen Shi Lan remembered the license tes of all his personal vehicles, so she immediately had her driver stop the car.


    "Shao Ting! Shao Ting!"


    Ever since the blow she suffered at the restaurant that day, Wen Shi Lan had be listless at home over the past few days. She still didn''t want to believe those words came out of Huo Shao Ting''s mouth.


    She had an apartment in this residential area. Her first reaction wasn''t that Huo Shao Ting had something to do here, but whether he came to find her?


    But after chasing him for over 200 meters, Huo Shao Ting''s car still didn''t stop.


    She panted for breath, looking at his disappearing car with a fascinated yet desperate gaze.


    "Miss." The driver got out of the car and walked over to her. Seeing her squatting on the ground, he couldn''t help calling out to her. His eyes concealed an extremelyplex emotion, like heartache yet also infatuation.


    Wen Shi Lan squatted on the ground until her legs felt a little numb before standing up.


    She had lost all her former vigor, her whole body wrapped in a sinister aura. She pped away Yang Yue''s outstretched hand fiercely.


    "You''d better remember your ce!" She red at Yang Yue with disgust.


    Yang Yue''s heart contracted with pain, a sh of disappointment in his eyes. His attitude became respectful, "Yes, Miss."


    Wen Shi Lan''s face was unpleasant. She limped back to the car somewhat andmanded him imperiously like an empress dowager, "Go find out exactly why Huo Shao Ting came here today! I must know everything! Otherwise I''ll fire you! Don''t think I don''t know what intentions you had ining to be my driver!"


    Yang Yue steadily drove the car, his face calm as he acquiesced to her. But his heart was in such anguish that he couldn''t breathe.


    On Huo Shao Ting''s side, he left the rest to Lu Hong to handle after leaving.


    When Zuo Ran was taken away, she still looked fierce and unwilling. She could hardly even believe Rong Dai actually called the police! She had actually told Huo Shao Ting about their affairs!


    Was that cheap woman not afraid that she would publicly reveal her mother''s matters? Was she not afraid of being pointed at and gossipped about by others?


    It was precisely because she held this over them that she could firmly control mother and daughter in her palm all this time. But now that she sat in the police station, she finally realized what was going on.


    Those burly men were no exception either. With so many security guards, Lu Hong''s colleagues were all elites. How could they let them slip away right under their noses?


    Then when they got to the police station and investigated, good gracious!


    They all had prior convictions and offenses. And they had allmitted new offenses recently too, so they were detained for education altogether.


    "Zuo Ran, I advise you to honestly confess everything! Don''t try your slippery tricks here! You''re already suspected ofmitting a crime, don''t you know that? If you continue to stubbornly resist, it will do you no good!"


    At the police station, several policemen took turns but failed to pry open Zuo Ran''s mouth. This woman''s mouth was too tight!


    "Crime? Do you have evidence? If you have evidence, then bring it out."


    Zuo Ran sneered coldly. She knew clearly what she had done, but such matters were consensual. Whichw stated that her liking women was a crime?


    The policemen were so angry they nearly spit out blood. If they had enough evidence, would they still be here wasting time talking to her?


    "Take the suspect out for now. Don''t interrogate for the moment. She''s crazy. Be careful not to let her self-harm."


    Outside the interrogation room, Lu Hong spoke, then left to call Huo Shao Ting and exin the situation here.


    At this time, Huo Shao Ting was still at the hospital. In his hands were the diaries Rong Dai had brought back from Zuo Ran''s home.


    His expression was gloomy and cold. Even his tone of voice was icy, "Detain her for now."


    "Big brother, if she has no evidence, it can only be 24 hours of detention at most before she has to be released." Lu Hong felt this was troublesome.


    "Release after 24 hours? She''s suspected of illegally detaining my wife, with assault, intimidation. And you''re telling me to release after 24 hours?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice suddenly became dangerous.


    Lu Hong felt a chill go down his spine, "Then is there an injury assessment report from sister-inw? If there''s an assessment report, plus collecting evidence from the scene, I can detain her for seven days. If litigation is initiated, sentencing will depend on the court. However, if sister-inw''s injuries aren''t too serious, and didn''t cause substantive loss, sentencing may be a bit difficult in this case."


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were sharply cold. His knuckles were white from clutching the diaries. How could he not be angry?


    This woman was going to anger him to death!


    "Send the injury assessment report to youter. For substantive loss, does fraudulently obtained property count?" He asked coldly.


    Lu Hong was startled. There was too much information today. This sister-inw was full of surprises when she appeared!


    "If there''s evidence, then of course it counts."


    "You just keep an eye on her. I''ll think of a way to get evidence." Huo Shao Ting said very coldly, then hung up.


    Not long after he hung up, Assistant Zhang came in with Rong Dai''s injury assessment report.


    "Boss, this is Madam''s injury assessment report. Her injuries aren''t serious. She can be discharged after waking up."


    "Not serious?" Huo Shao Ting''s voice rose. His eyebrows were practically knotted. He emanated cold anger, frightening Assistant Zhang into sweating.


    He immediately thought of something. Detaining someone here still required evidence. Otherwise after 24 hours without substantial evidence, this person would have to be released.


    "Boss, I understand now!" Assistant Zhang said hastily, taking the report and immediately running off.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at Rong Dai sleeping peacefully on the hospital bed. His eyes were extremely deep. After Assistant Zhang came back with an assessment report that satisfied him, he said,


    "Go investigate a few things. Zuo Ran''s ounts, and my wife''s ounts. Alsopile a list of all the luxury items that flowed out from my wife''s hands. I want to get to the bottom of all this."


    Assistant Zhang didn''t dare hesitate and immediately went to handle it. This matter today was too sudden and shocking!


    In the private hospital room, Rong Dai''s injuries actually weren''t too serious. But in the evening, she developed a high fever and kept muttering deliriously with her brows furrowed.


    Sitting on the sofa handling work, Huo Shao Ting heard it and walked over. Seeing her flushed cheeks, he immediately called the doctor over.


    The doctor prescribed some medicine to reduce the fever and gave some other instructions before leaving.


    The hospital room was very quiet. There wasn''t that pungent medicinal smell either. Rong Dai felt like her entire body was drifting among the clouds, without any foothold.

 Chapter 44: My Sexuality is Okay

    <h4>Chapter 44</h4>


    Rong Dai was in a daze and felt as if she was floating back to that cold pce. She was strongly attracted and pulled back there, as if something was luring her to return.


    She couldn''t help but resist. She had ruined the Rong family and the Emperor had used and despised her. She was unwilling to go back to that ce.


    She felt as if her soul had left her body. After struggling for a long time, she still returned to that cold, gloomy and dark pce.


    But she saw an unbelievable scene - "she herself" was still alive!


    Rong Dai''s body didn''t listen to her, but her mind was extremely clear.


    That other self seemed to have seen her too, and suddenly revealed a bright smile to her.


    "I don''t want to go back there anymore, I like it here," the other self said to her.


    Rong Dai felt a shiver run through her body, with the hair on her neck standing up. She looked at the other self in horror, and a bold guess emerged in her mind.


    "Are you...Rong Dai?" She found that she could actually speak!


    The "Rong Dai" nodded, then gestured for her to sit down. She looked at the bleak scenery outside the pce, with no despair in her eyes, but a vibrant spirit instead.


    "Tell me a little about yourself, and I''ll tell you about me too. After we''re done, we''ll be even, and I''ll live well here in your ce, while you also live well over there in my ce. What do you think?"


    "Rong Dai" asked her with a smile. She was horrified and felt it was absurd, but her mind was unusually clear. She had even experienced such a bizarre thing as rebirth, so what else could be absurd?


    She suddenly thought of Zuo Ran and those photos, those thick diary books.


    She had to live in a different way. It was obvious that she and "Rong Dai" could no longer switch back. They could only live well in each other''s ce.


    She nodded and sat next to "Rong Dai". The two were strangers, clearly from two different times, yet there seemed to be a special connection linking them together.


    They recounted in minute detail to each other about the people, things and events they had encountered since gaining consciousness and memory.


    Huo Shao Ting, who was keeping vigil by her sickbed, did not know about everything she had experienced in her dream. He just periodically used a cotton swab dipped in water to wipe her mouth until her fever went down at dawn, and only then did he lean back on the sofa to nap for a while.


    Rong Dai woke up from thirst. When she opened her eyes and saw herself in the ward, she remembered that yesterday, when confronting that madman Zuo Ran, it seemed she had been injured and lost consciousness from fright afterwards.


    When she turned her head, she saw Huo Shao Ting sleeping very peacefully on the sofa. This man was not as enchanting, but every angle of his face was particrly pleasing to look at.


    Recalling yesterday''s thrilling events, Rong Dai also broke out in a cold sweat. Thinking back to everything she had experienced in her dream, she still felt it was absurd, but she had no choice but to believe it.


    Before, when she didn''t understand the situation, every word she said was hesitant and wary. But now she could be at ease.


    However, the price to pay for this peace of mind was huge. It was very likely that her marriage with Huo Shao Ting would end soon, not evensting a full year.


    Huo Shao Ting was very perceptive. Even when asleep, he did not rx his vignce.


    So when he sensed Rong Dai''s gaze lingering on his face, he had already awakened.


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting open his eyes, Rong Dai''s heart jumped to her throat. She still hadn''t figured out how to exin everything to him.


    Although she also felt very depressed about the mess the original owner had left her, thinking of the original owner who was surviving in the cold pce in her ce, her mood instantly dissipated.


    Huo Shao Ting remained seated on the sofa without moving. His deep eyes kept looking at her. Even with his expressionless face, it could bring tremendous pressure.


    At least Rong Dai felt like a mountain was pressing down on her. She struggled to sit up, propping herself against a pillow.


    She took a couple deep breaths to settle her jumbled thoughts, then shifted her gaze to Huo Shao Ting.


    "About this matter... No, regarding everything, just ask whatever you want to know. I won''t hide anything."


    After speaking, she averted her eyes again, looking a bit dejected, perhaps due to the aftereffects of her high fever.


    From her encounter with the original owner in her dream and their exchange of experiences, she finally understood how difficult the original owner''s life had been.


    She and her mother had always lived under Zuo Ran''s control.


    Not only was Zuo Ran extremely possessive, his preferences also deviated from normal.


    What Rong Dai and her mother didn''tck was beauty that was one in a million. And that was exactly what Zuo Ran valued in them - their extraordinary beauty as mother and daughter.


    The original owner didn''t know much about her mother''s private affairs either, but from her memories, she knew her mother went from gratitude to forced victim.


    This harm had also befallen the original owner. There was also the matter of her mother''s very suspicious death.


    But she had no energy to think about these things now. She just wanted to confess everything to Huo Shao Ting as soon as possible, and could only resign herself to whatever the oue would be.


    "How do you want to handle this matter? Or what kind of result do you want?"


    Huo Shao Ting was silent for a while before speaking. But he didn''t ask about her and Zuo Ran''s matters, only asking what she wanted the oue to be regarding this matter.


    Rong Dai was taken aback, not quite understanding his meaning. Was he not the least bit curious about this?


    Even she couldn''t ept something like this. He was her nominal husband. If this matter was exposed, it would damage not only his reputation, but also the Huo family''s.


    If Huo Shao Ting agreed to divorce her in consideration of the Huo family''s reputation, she would be powerless to stop it.


    She had already prepared herself for the worst, but didn''t expect him to ask like this.


    "What are you thinking?" Seeing that she didn''t answer for a long time, he couldn''t help frowning.


    Rong Dai came back to her senses and quickly shook her head. "I thought you...would propose getting a divorce from me right away. I know this matter could have a huge impact."


    Huo Shao Ting''s frown deepened. "What kind of person do you take me for? Would I take advantage of your predicament? Or do you want a divorce? If you have issues with your orientation, I''ll permit the divorce."


    His voice was cold, but he was actually quite annoyed inside. However, seeing the white gauze wrapped around her head, he couldn''t get angry and could only restrain himself.


    Rong Dai''s face turned red with embarrassment and she quickly denied, "My orientation is very normal, I don''t have any issues."


    Thinking of Zuo Ran''s madness, she still felt chills running down her back.


    "Then leave this matter to me. Do you have any objections? Or anything you need to remind me about it?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her and saw her lips were dry and cracked. As he spoke, he went to pour her a ss of warm water.


    "Thank you." She carefully epted the warm water he handed to her, not daring to look at him as she focused her gaze into the ss.

 Chapter 45: Zuo Ran was released on Bail

    <h4>Chapter 45</h4>


    She sorted through the information the original owner had given her in her mind. She took out the pink cell phone and diary from her bag, found several files in it, and handed them to him, "These... I kept them, maybe they''ll be useful."


    This kind of thing was tricky, especially when she realized how powerful the information in this world was.


    If she hadn''t called Huo Shaoting in time yesterday, given Left Ran''s temper yesterday, it was very likely that it would have been exposed online.


    Huo Shaoting took the items, his eyes deep, and just as he was about to speak, his phone rang.


    "I think I''ll sleep a little longer."


    Rong Dai hurriedly made excuses. She hadn''t expected this to be so serious, and if Huo''s family knew, her situation would be even more difficult.


    Her mind was chaotic, and she didn''t have the energy to think about countermeasures either.


    Huo Shaoting didn''t poke holes in her thoughts either, turning around and taking the call.


    Of course Rong Dai couldn''t sleep leaning against the bed. Huo Shaoting didn''t stay on the phone for long and came back in shortly after. She noticed his face was even gloomier.


    "Did something happen?" She was timid, and didn''t even have the courage to speak.


    From rebirth until now, she had caused him a lot of trouble.


    Huo Shaoting looked at her deeply, his voice low, "Left Ran was bailed out this morning."


    This was Hong Rong''s negligence. Because Huo Shaoting had previously instructed him not to make a big deal out of this, not many people at the police station knew about it.


    Early this morning, before Hong Rong got to the station, someone took the opportunity while he was away to provide bail for Left Ran.


    "What does this mean?" Rong Dai was so shocked that she hurriedly sat down, her hands and feet turning cold.


    "It means she''s free now." He exined inly, but his puzzlement grew even more. This woman didn''t seem to understand many words.


    Rong Dai was stunned. Given Left Ran''s madness, if she was free now, she would definitelye to take revenge on herself!


    She dared not imagine how much impact it would have if Left Ran leaked the explicit photos in her hand online.


    Previously, she had only tried acting on a whim. Although the online news had been suppressed by other news by now, she truly felt the terror of this information age.


    There was almost no privacy, and she was like a transparent person in front of the masses.


    The reason her failed acting attempt became a hot search was because of Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye''s fame, and also because she was Madam Huo.


    But after all, what she had suffered was only suspicion, without too many other negative things. After all, Huo Shaojie definitely had the ability to handle things well when there was no evidence, no matter how fanciful the rumors were.


    But this time was different. Left Ran had arge number of explicit photos of the original owner in her hands. Once they were posted online, she dared not imagine the consequences.


    "You should be discharged first and stay at home. This matter will take time to deal with." Seeing her paleplexion, he couldn''t bear to criticize either.


    Since things had already happened, he had to resolve the matter first before anything else.


    "But...but she still has a backup with stuff inside..." Rong Dai said anxiously. It was hard to talk about this kind of thing.


    Rong Dai felt frustrated and stifled. At times like this, none of her skills could be put to use. Instead, she could only rely on asking Huo Shaoting for help.


    "I know." His voice was cold. He could guess this kind of thing without her saying it. "Go home first after being discharged."


    Rong Dai could only nod. She was anxious now, but it was useless. Moreover, she didn''t like ces like hospitals very much.


    After going through the discharge procedures, she sessfully returned to the Huo residence.


    Huo Shaoting still had things to deal with. Now that she had to rely on others, she didn''t dare say anything. She saw him off and then turned around and returned to the Huo residence.


    Seeing her return with her head wrapped in gauze, Aunt Wang was shocked.


    "Aunt Wang, I''m fine, I just bumped it identally." She barely squeezed out a smile. Left Ran''s matter had left her a little mentally and physically exhausted.


    "Then I''ll cook some soup for Madam. You go upstairs and rest for a while first." Aunt Wang said.


    Rong Dai nodded and went upstairs to take a shower first, then curled up in the soft quilt, thinking about things.


    However, after thinking about it for a long time, she couldn''te up with any solutions. Soon she fell asleep groggily.


    She hadn''t seen Huo Shaotinge back these past two days. She did see her mother-inw twice, greeted her politely, then returned to her room to keep checking the news trends on Weibo.


    There was no negative news about hering out.


    She secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Huo Shaoting must have used some means to deal with the matter.


    Just as she was thinking about things, an unknown call came in on her phone. Her heart raced wildly as she looked at the number on it. Recalling the business card Huo Shaojie had given her earlier, this number seemed to be Lu Ye''s.


    She picked up and Lu Ye''s enthusiastic voice immediately came through.


    "Does it have to be today?" As expected, Lu Ye wanted her to go sign the contract. But thinking of Left Ran still atrge, and recalling her madness from before, she felt it was most prudent to stay at the Huo residence.


    There was a pause on Lu Ye''s end. Considering her status, he immediately changed his tune, "Then how about this - I cane to the Huo residence too. There are still some other investors in this project who want to meet you too. Forget it, these are all trivial matters."


    Hearing him say this, Rong Dai felt she was being too self-indulgent. It was just signing a contract after all. She wasn''t going out alone either.


    Moreover, this opportunity was hard toe by. She couldn''t make them amodate her schedule just because of her identity as Madam Huo, as well as habits cultivated in her previous life.


    "No need, just give me an address and I''lle over now."


    Lu Ye was only too happy to oblige. Although he had been annoyed by the online rumors during this time, he was still very excited to have dug up such a gem to y the female lead in his drama.


    Seeing the address Lu Ye sent over, she got up to wash up and change, then headed to the destination in a private car.


    It was a high-end restaurant. Lu Ye had invited several partners toe. Seeing Rong Dai walk in, everyone''s eyes lit up.


    Because Lu Ye had informed them of Rong Dai''s status in advance, no one dared act out of line. They were all polite when greeting her. After some pleasantries, they got down to business.


    Lu Ye was actually Lu Zheng''s nephew, so he would never scam his own family member. Therefore, the contract signing went very smoothly. Then everyone sat down for a meal together.


    "Director Lu, why don''t you guys chat first. I''m going to the restroom for a bit."


    Listening to them talk shop, Rong Dai felt a little awkward. She was also afraid of revealing ws, so she found an excuse to briefly step out.


    After leaving the restroom, Rong Dai was washing her hands at the sink when she suddenly sensed someone behind her. Reflexively, she nced up at the mirror.


    Standing behind her was someone who had concealed themselves tightly. She would never forget those eyes!


    Wasn''t this Left Ran!?


    "You''ve really got guts, huh. Not only betraying me, but wanting me jailed too? You bitch!"


    Left Ran''s gaze was vicious. rm bells went off in Rong Dai''s mind. She aggressively pushed Left Ran away to leave, but Left Ran was prepared. She grabbed Rong Dai''s hair again with that move!


    Rong Dai staggered, incensed. Before she could react, she saw Left Ran take out something and spray it at her mouth and nose several times in session.

 Chapter 46: Fly Away

    <h4>Chapter 46</h4>


    Rong Dai wanted to hold her breath, but it was toote. She only felt a sudden weakness throughout her body before it went limp, yet her mind was very clear.


    She looked into Zuo Ran''s fierce eyes, wanting to cry out loudly for help, but realized she had no voice at all. Her entire being was like her soul had left her body.


    Rong Dai watched helplessly as Zuo Ran took her away without the slightest ability to resist. Her heart was as anxious as ants on a hot pan.


    Thinking of Zuo Ran''s madness, Rong Dai''s whole body turned icy cold, but her body would not obey her control. This feeling of powerlessness made the panic in her heart even greater!


    Now she was really done for!


    Falling into this mad woman''s hands, she would surely not have a good oue.


    A bleak, despairing feeling rose in Rong Dai''s heart. She looked at Zuo Ran, a smug smile on her face, her eyes creepy as if rejoicing over war spoils.


    "I owe you a favor this time. I��ll pay back this favor. Have you got the ne tickets I wanted ready?"


    Zuo Ran sat in the car, one hand clutching Rong Dai''s arm while fishing out her phone with the other, seemingly calling someone.


    Rong Dai��s body felt numb and weak, but her hearing was sharp. Although the voice from the phone wasn''t loud, she felt it was somewhat familiar��she must have heard this voice somewhere before.


    After Zuo Ran hung up, she looked down at Rong Dai with a maddened, stubborn smile. "Little Dai, don''t worry. We can fly far away soon. We can be together forever."


    She had an almost obsessed look, and her brightly painted fingernails lightly brushed over Rong Dai��s face, sending chills through her body.


    This was simply a madwoman!


    Rong Dai was helpless for the moment and could only hope Lu Ye or the driver would notice her disappearance soon and inform Huo Shao Ting toe rescue her.


    Although extremely anxious internally, Rong Dai forced herself to stay calm and not provoke Zuo Ran, or else she would be the one suffering in the end.


    All the way, Zuo Ran chattered incessantly in her ear. Rong Dai listened carefully, wanting to find out who would dare help release Zuo Ran.


    She had thought she could learn the person''s identity from Zuo Ran��s words, but Zuo Ran only professed her admiration for their mother and daughter rtionship.


    Rong Dai broke into a cold sweat on her back. She estimated internally that they had been traveling for about thirty minutes when the car stopped.


    Then Zuo Ran poured some unknown substance into her mouth, and her mind went nk as she passed outpletely.


    When Rong Dai regained consciousness, she found herself already on an airne!


    Although she knew people could fly in this world, which was very novel to her, she definitely did not want her first time in the sky to be under these circumstances!


    "Awake? Drink some water. Look at the sky outside, isn''t it so blue? Doesn''t the sunlight look so beautiful? Our future life will also be as wonderful as this."


    Seeing that she had woken up, Zuo Ran handed her a bottle of water and gazed yearningly at the white clouds outside the airne window, speaking gently.


    Rong Dai felt goosebumps all over her body, a chill going down her back.


    I don''t want to have any wonderful life with you at all!


    She wondered if Lu Ye and Huo Shao Ting had discovered her disappearance yet. Not counting the time she was unconscious, it had been at least several hours now.


    Also, where did Zuo Ran get the powerful connections to get her on a ne? From what the original owner said, Zuo Ran was just a fallen woman who had mixed with the underworld, with no background at all.


    Even if she had defrauded quite a bit of money from the original owner, having money didn''t necessarily mean she could sneak Rong Dai onto a ne unnoticed!


    Rong Dai''s mind was full of questions. She was unfamiliar with this world, and now she didn''t have anything on her��no money, no phone. Even after getting off the ne, she might not be able to escape.


    "Where are we going?" She drank a sip of water, not knowing what Zuo Ran had poured into her before to make her so parched.


    Zuo Ran beamed and reached out to grasp her hand. Rong Dai endured the disgust and didn''t pull away.


    "To a ce where no one can ever find us. Little Dai, I��ll give you a wonderful wedding. I��ll always treat you well. As long as you don''t leave me, I can agree to anything you say."


    Zuo Ran spoke gently, as if cherishing a treasure.


    Rong Dai''s face was cold. She already felt fear towards Zuo Ran''s madness.


    But she could not let her emotions show, or it would further stimte Zuo Ran. If Zuo Ran lost control, Rong Dai was helpless to call for aid now and did not want mutual destruction.


    "Is that so? Didn''t you say you would never hurt me? You knew I hated hospitals yet still forced me into one. Do you know how afraid and terrified I was?"


    She turned to look at Zuo Ran, her eyes suddenly reddening as her face took on a grieved, aggrieved look.


    For now, she could only wait. She had to believe in Huo Shao Ting��he was her only hope!


    So before Huo Shao Ting arrived, she had to ensure her own safety and avoid any conflicts with Zuo Ran!


    Seeing her like this, Zuo Ran''s heart instantly softened, looking at Rong Dai remorsefully. "I''m sorry. I was just too afraid to lose you. Little Dai, promise me you''ll never leave me, okay?"


    Rong Dai was shocked, goosebumps risingyer uponyer on her arm. But what else could she do besides agree?


    She nodded. "I promise, but can I rest now?"


    She couldn''t keep talking to this madwoman or she would be disgusted to death!


    "Sleep well, you need to be fully rested to be a bride." Zuo Ran looked satisfied, gazing at her obsessively.


    Rong Dai quickly closed her eyes, but how could she actually fall asleep?


    Zuo Ran was clearly insane!


    On Lu Ye''s side, he had gone out drinking with some business partners and overindulged, only sobering up to find Rong Dai missing!


    "Lu Hong, what exactly is going on here? How can she be missing?"


    Lu Ye had a headache upon seeing so many missed calls and before he could call back, he got an iing call from his younger brother Lu Hong.


    Lu Hong sounded very bad. Hearing Rong Dai was missing, Lu Ye was so shocked his hair stood on end!


    "That can''t be! We were just eating at the restaurant and she said she was going to the restroom. I waited a long time without seeing here back. Later a waiter came over saying she had left first. I even texted her and she replied! I can screenshot it for you, she sent me a message back!"


    Lu Ye''s head swelled instantly!


    The woman was gone! And she was Huo Shao Ting''s wife! The key was that she had disappeared while meeting him!


    Lu Ye felt his life had gone dark, as if seeing the apocalypse arrive.

 Chapter 47: She Can鈥檛 Do It

    <h4>Chapter 47</h4>


    "Don''t talk about this first, hurry up ande over! Shao Ting is in very bad shape. Something happened these past few days. He released someone from my prison, and it was probably her who kidnapped sister-inw."


    Lu Hong was also getting a headache.


    When Zuo Ran was in prison, she was uncooperative no matter how hard or soft he was, and this person left just a few minutes after he arrivedte.


    He had been treading carefully about this matter these past few days, helping Huo Shao Ting investigate Zuo Ran''s background.


    He wouldn''t have known if he didn''t investigate. After investigating, he was shocked!


    This Zuo Ran was actually a habitual offender! Her real name wasn''t even Zuo Ran, but Wang Chunhua. She was a fallen woman.


    Later, she followed a man ashore and lived a peaceful life for a while. Butpared to the man, she liked women more.


    That''s why the concubine discovered this and dumped her, losing a lot of money in the process!


    With this money, the newly named Wang Chunhua lived afortable life. She had also found quite a few concubines sessively, and many innocent young girls suffered misfortune.


    But it was difficult to talk about these things openly, and no one filed a report at all. If it weren''t for this incident, no one would have known how many more young girls this Zuo Ran would have harmed.


    But what was unexpected was that Container''s mother, An Feiya, somehow got involved with her and now Container was also implicated.


    After hanging up the phone, Lu Hong looked at Huo Shao Ting''s face, which was so gloomy it could almost be used as an inkstone. He couldn''t help but shiver inwardly.


    This was the most tricky case he had encountered in his professional career so far!


    "Boss, I''ve notified the bank as you ordered. Zuo Ran''s ount has been frozen."


    Zhang Assistant''s head was also aching these past few days. One wave after another, things happened one after another.


    "Shao Ting, Zuo Ran''s ount can''t be frozen for now, even though the source of the funds has been traced. If you freeze her ount now, you saw how frenzied she was that day. "


    "If she finds out her ount is frozen, won''t she go mad? Especially since sister-inw is very likely with her right now. If she takes out her anger on sister-inw and harms her, won''t things get even worse?"


    Hearing this, Lu Hong quickly reminded him.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was extremely cold. Hearing Lu Hong''s words, his eyes darkened deeply and he signaled Zhang Assistant to do as Lu Hong said.


    "I''ve had people track her ount. As soon as there is any change in her ount, we can immediately trace their location. Zuo Ran doesn''t have a passport, so they won''t be able to leave the country and should still be in China."


    Lu Hong quickly analyzed the situation and issued orders to dispatch people.


    "Shao Ting, don''t worry, sister-inw will definitely be fine. But there''s one thing that might require your own connections to investigate. My identity can only ess so much."


    Lu Hong''s expression suddenly became solemn. "The bail was premeditated, because this matter required confidentiality. Not many people in the prison knew about it. The other party was clearly very aware of this, so they were able to bail Zuo Ran out quickly."


    "I looked into thatwyer. He''s a famous topwyer in Shenjing. Someone who can afford him must have some standing in Shenjing."


    "Also, the other party nned all the subsequent events very meticulously. Wepletely missed all the best rescue times. You''ll have to look into these yourself."


    Huo Shao Ting coldly nced at him. He didn''t need to be taught these things at all. As soon as the incident happened, he had already dispatched people to investigate.


    After Zhang Assistant finished the call, his expression was very solemn.


    "Boss, it''s been found out."


    "Speak," Huo Shao Ting''s voice was icy cold, his deep eyes sharp.


    He wanted to see who had the audacity to oppose him!


    "It''s Miss Wen."


    Zhang Assistant said solemnly. He didn''t expect the result to be like this either!


    "Wen Shi Lan?" Lu Hong was surprised and instinctively looked over at Huo Shao Ting. He saw Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed tightly, his expression extremely cold and frightening.


    After all this, it turned out to be three women working together?


    "Have the Wen family bring her over. Where is myptop?"


    The colder Huo Shao Ting was, the more frightening he became. Zhang Assistant hurried to take care of it.


    Lu Hong watched from the side as Lu Ye soon arrived.


    "What exactly happened? Where is Container? She was still fine when we had lunch together. How could she just disappear..." Lu Ye''s words stopped abruptly when he saw Huo Shao Ting''s extremely gloomy face.


    This had really gotten out of hand!


    Lu Hong sympathetically nced at him. The atmosphere in the huge office was extremely low. Lu Ye didn''t even dare to breathe loudly and stood ramrod straight, just like a sentry.


    He sent a text message to Huo Shao Jie, who was out taking photos with Huo Mei Shu. After seeing Lu Ye''s message, Huo Shao Jie opened it.


    "Mei Shu, let''s pack up and get ready to head back."


    Huo Shao Jie''s expression also cooled down. He tidied up the equipment while ordering Huo Mei Shu, who was still taking selfies.


    "But we just got here a few days ago! This rxation is too perfunctory." Huo Mei Shu looked at him dissatisfiedly and didn''t move from her spot.


    "Sister-inw has been kidnapped! Big brother has to manage thepany alone, Lu Ye still has to prepare for his new drama, and only Lu Hong can help out. I have to rush back."


    After packing up, Huo Shao Jie carried the bag and pulled her towards the car.


    "She was kidnapped? Could it be that she''s short on money and staged this to scam money out of my brother? Now this is great, her tricks are endless, I''ll really get to feast my eyes."


    Huo Mei Shu was very dissatisfied about being forced into the car. She went on Weibo with her phone and mocked Container as she sneered.


    Huo Shao Jie ignored her sarcasm, quickly drove back to the hotel, and rushed back to Shenjing.


    On Shenjing''s side, Wen Shi Lan thought she had done this wlessly, but she didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to find out so quickly.


    "Shao Ting, I didn''t do it! You have to believe me! Why would I help others kidnap Container? This has nothing to do with me!"


    Facing Huo Shao Ting''s sinister gaze, Wen Shi Lan desperately denied it. Her expression was extremely aggrieved.


    "These past few days, I''ve been at home reflecting on myself. I admit I was jealous of her, but it was only because I like you too much! But kidnapping is against thew, so why would I do that?"


    Wen Shi Lan immediately burst into tears. Seeing the man she thought of day and night interrogate her like this tore her heart into pieces. Her hatred for Container had prated her bones!


    "Brother Huo, don''t you think there''s some misunderstanding here? Although Shi Lan was a bit unreasonable and may have caused you trouble, she''s not the kind of vicious girl to do this. She definitely wouldn''t have arranged the kidnapping."


    Seeing his sister cry so aggrievedly and heartbrokenly, Wen Runlin knew that although she had gone overboard before, she was still his sister and he had to stand up for her.

 Chapter 48: Timothy Fok is Green

    <h4>Chapter 48</h4>


    What''s more, he didn''t feel that Rong Dai had any capabilities worth his sister taking the risk of breaking thew to target her. However, as soon as he opened his mouth, he was met with Huo Shao Ting''s extremely cold gaze.


    Zhang, the assistant, immediately understood. He ced a recorder on the table which contained the "confession" of that topwyer.


    Wen Shi Lan''s face froze as her heart started pounding rapidly. Looking at Huo Shao Ting''s gloomy face, she hurried to exin, "Shao... Brother Huo, listen to my exnation. I must have been framed. This recording definitely isn''t mine. I have no reason to hurt Rong Dai!"


    How stupid is thiswyer?! He actually dared to say things like this outside! Isn''t this deliberately trying to get her killed?!


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her coldly and said in an indifferent voice, "No reason? Liking me counts, right?"


    Wen Shi Lan was rendered speechless as her delicate cheeks flushed red.


    "I... I do like you, but... but..."


    "But what? Do I need to y the recording from that day too? Or are you going to say that day''s recording was fake too?"


    Meeting his icy cold eyes, Wen Shi Lan thought of that day''s recording and felt a chill in her heart, along with some indignance.


    "But how could that be connected to this matter? I do like you, but I have no reason to do something like this! Brother Huo, is this really how you see me?"


    She immediately acted aggrieved again, squeezing her eyes as two lines of clear tears rolled down her cheeks.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned in displeasure, "Send it for appraisal."


    Zhang nodded and was about to reach for the recorder when Wen Shi Lan quickly grabbed it first. She then threw it to the ground as if extremely angry and stomped on it forcefully!


    Zhang was dumbfounded. After she calmed down, he looked at Wen Shi Lan calmly and said, "Miss Wen, if your foot doesn''t hurt, I have a whole box more."


    As he spoke, he took out another identical recorder from his coat. The recording waspletely the same!


    Wen Shi Lan''s body stiffened as her face turned green from anger!


    At this time, Wen Runlin also realized that this matter was likely rted to his sister after all. He was very clear on the extent of obsession his sister had for Huo Shao Ting.


    He pulled Wen Shi Lan aside, "Shi Lan, tell me, did you really do this or not?"


    "Brother! How can you not believe me either? She''s just a worthless woman who can''tpare to me in any way. Why would I break thew because of her? Have I lost my mind?!"


    Wen Runlin looked into her eyes as she spoke sincerely. The doubts that had just arisen in his heart were stifled again.


    "Of course I believe you. You know Brother Huo''s temper. If you did it, hurry up and admit it. He won''t get angry then. If he finds out himself after investigating, the consequences will be different."


    Wen Shi Lan felt uneasy as her palms became mmy with sweat.


    She only hoped that the cheap woman Zuo Ran could act quickly and get rid of that cheap woman Rong Dai.


    That way, even if Brother Huo found outter that she was involved, he would be angry at her and she could find a way to coax him back.


    As long as Rong Dai that cheap woman disappeared from Jingcheng forever!


    She certainly wouldn''t let go of such a good opportunity from that unexpected encounter that day!


    Since Rong Dai liked that woman Zuo Ran so much, she shouldn''tpete with her for Huo Shao Ting anymore. Weren''t they going to fly off together?


    Then she would fulfill their wish!


    If Rong Dai hadn''t gone looking for death herself, she wouldn''t have gotten such a huge handle on her.


    "Shao Ting, there''s news online already. It''s trending and made top headlines."


    Lu Hong walked in from outside, holding up his phone for Huo Shao Ting to take a look.


    The exposed content was shocking. Even the titles were sensational and startling!


    "Huo Family CEO cheats"


    "Huo Shao Ting''s wife is a lesbian"


    "Huo Shao Ting''s wife''s new drama"


    These kinds of trending headlines dominated the entire Weibo!


    At first, some thought it was just hype. But when anonymous posts leaked piles of condemning photographic evidence, the entire Weibo exploded! It even crashed at one point!


    Because of Huo Shao Ting''s immense influence in Jingcheng, his previous secret low-profile marriage had already aroused immense curiosity externally.


    Now this newsing out was like a bolt from the blue!


    Meanwhile, Rong Dai who had been kidnapped by Zuo Ran still didn''t know that her biggest fear had be reality. She was forced by Zuo Ran to wear a wedding dress with her hands and feet tied to a chair.


    Zuo Ran herself had changed into a suit and decorated the room beautifully with abundant flowers and their thick fragrance permeating the air, candles, and a cake.


    Seeing it made Rong Dai''s scalp tingle, but her rationality forced her to remain calm.


    "Little Dai, don''t worry. We will definitely be together forever. Huo Shao Ting doesn''t have the ability to separate us."


    Zuo Ran suddenly grinned at her and pushed Rong Dai''s chair closer to the dining table.


    Only then did Rong Dai see that the dining table was set with many things used for the deceased! She instantly felt her hair stand on end!


    Did this madwoman n to drag her down in a suicide pact?!


    "What exactly are you trying to do?" She looked up at Zuo Ran, her voice trembling slightly.


    Zuo Ran smiled and nced at her as she took out her phone to start recording them.


    "I said we would be together forever. Of course our souls have to be together forever too. Only if we die together and sign the contract can we truly be together eternally."


    Seeing the sinister smile on Zuo Ran''s face, Rong Dai felt like her head would explode!


    Zuo Ran smiled gently as she sat opposite her and reached out to caress Rong Dai''s cheek. The obsession in her eyes made Rong Dai''s insides churn as she was forced to look at the phone recording them.


    "Little Dai, it''ll hurt just a bit. Don''t be afraid. I''ll be very gentle. I''ll being down to apany you soon too."


    Zuo Ran spoke gently, as if coaxing a child.


    Rong Dai''s heart pounded rapidly. This madwoman clearly wanted to kill her!


    She took a couple deep breaths silently to suppress the terror rising within her.


    "I''m not afraid, but I''m very hungry now. I want to eat something first."


    She had to buy time for herself and find a way to free her hands and feet.


    "I''ll feed you." Zuo Ran attended to her very gently. Rong Dai swallowed the disgust and ate mouthful by mouthful, frequently asking for water too.


    "I''m done eating." Rong Dai had eaten quite a bit. Although disgusted, she needed to preserve her strength.


    This woman was a madwoman. She was penniless andpletely unfamiliar with this ce.


    Without absolute certainty, she couldn''t act rashly.


    "I want to take a bath. Do you want to join? If we''re going to be together forever, there are some things I feel I should give you now or I''ll regret it."


    Rong Dai forced herself to say it, already feeling nauseated and wanting to p herself.


    To think that she, a empress, would be coerced to this extent! Just thinking about it made her feel aggrieved!


    Zuo Ran''s eyes lit up as she looked at Rong Dai in pleasant surprise, unable to resist reaching out to caress her cheek obsessively. "Are you really willing?"


    Two red clouds appeared on Rong Dai''s cheeks as she nodded earnestly.

 Chapter 49: Martyrdom

    <h4>Chapter 49</h4>


    "Wait a minute," Zuo Ran said happily as she stood up. She picked up the phone from the video and tapped something on the screen. It was several minutes before she put the phone back on the table.


    Rong Dai watched her every move closely. By now, she was bing calmer and calmer.


    She had to find a way to contact Huo Shao Ting to tell him her location, otherwise this crazy woman really would kill her if she lost control.


    "Okay, we can enjoy the time ahead. Little Dai, believe me, there''s no one in this world who will treat you better than me."


    Zuo Ran walked over to her and lovingly caressed her cheek, leaving a doting kiss on her forehead.


    Rong Dai''s skin crawled wildly and she could barely suppress the revulsion rising within her, but she had to stay calm.


    "Let''s go to the bathroom. I''ll be very gentle," Zuo Ran said with a gentle smile, but she only loosened Rong Dai''s legs from the chair. Her hands were still tied up.


    Rong Dai was in no hurry either. After entering the bathroom, Zuo Ran tied up her legs again. Seeing the bathtub, Rong Dai moved her hands. Fortunately, Zuo Ran hadn''t tied the knots too tightly.


    "I want to take a bath, with lots of bubbles," she said, looking at Zuo Ran with sincere eyes and a slightly coquettish tone.


    Just as she had expected, Zuo Ran indulged her every whim.


    But Rong Dai knew very clearly that this was just the calm side of this woman. When she lost control, even she herself was capable of violence!


    Not to mention wanting tomit lover''s suicide together - where did she even get such an idea? Why not suggest going to see the Buddha together?


    She stood in the bathroom doorway, watching Zuo Ran diligently wipe the bathtub and fill it with water and bubbles.


    Her expression was impassive, like amb to the ughter, letting Zuo Ran strip off her wedding dress. But Zuo Ran had quite peculiar tastes - she didn''t strip Rong Daipletely naked.


    This was somewhat reassuring to Rong Dai. She had already mentally prepared herself to be stripped bare.


    "Go slowly, Little Dai," Zuo Ran said carefully as she helped Rong Dai into the tub, unable to stop the light in her eyes as she looked over Rong Dai''s fair, delicate, milky skin.


    Rong Dai felt nauseous inside. In her past life as a princess, even when bathing she had had servants to attend her.


    But she had never felt as ufortable and disgusted as she did now, even loathing Zuo Ran''s touch.


    Yet to survive, she had to endure it.


    "Wait here, I''m going to get something," Zuo Ran said after seeing that Rong Dai wasn''t resisting. She reached out and touched the ropes binding Rong Dai, speaking reassuringly before leaving the bathroom.


    Rong Dai heaved a huge sigh of relief as she watched her go. Sitting in the warm water, she still couldn''t feel any warmth at all - only bone-chilling cold.


    Taking this chance, she immediately bit down on one end of the ropes on her hands and, moving as quickly as she could, undid the bindings on her hands and feet!


    In her past life, her father and brothers had taken her to military camps a few times. These simple rope tricks were nothing to her; others might not be able to undo them, but she could.


    After freeing herself from the ropes, she didn''t immediately leave the tub. Instead, she wiped the bubbles from her face and held the ropes in her hands, waiting for Zuo Ran to return.


    Hearing Zuo Ran''s footsteps approaching, her heart pounded wildly in her chest.


    "Little Dai, tonight is your first time. I''ll make it an unforgettable night for you," Zuo Ran said, holding a bunch of strange items in her hands. She herself was already stripped bare, with only a thin silk robe draped over her.


    Looking at the dazzling body before her, Rong Dai felt a surge of nausea.


    She forced a smile on her face, making her voice sound coquettishly shy. "I...will do whatever you say."


    At the same time, she sized up the bathroom door out of the corner of her eye, mentally rehearsing over and over the next steps of her n.


    Seeing her so obedient, Zuo Ran also let down her guard. She sat on the edge of the tub, gazing at Rong Dai with infatuation as she stroked her cheek and traced her slender, fair neck downwards.


    Rong Dai''s heart was in her throat, filled with disgust and anxiety.


    "Don''t be nervous. I''m very experienced, you''ll definitely like it," Zuo Ran murmured seductively in her ear, thinking Rong Dai was nervous.


    "Mm," Rong Dai responded with a tremble, watching as Zuo Ran turned around. She swallowed hard, her heart practically leaping into her mouth!


    Now!


    A voice screamed inside her. Rong Dai''s beautiful eyes suddenly shed with a fierce light. The ropes in her handshed out and coiled around Zuo Ran''s neck!


    Her elbows and knees struck out in unison, hitting the base of Zuo Ran''s neck and lower back!


    "Argh!"


    Zuo Ran cried out in pain. Rong Dai was terrified, and did not hold back, using almost all her strength to drag Zuo Ran into the bathtub!


    But she had not intended to kill Zuo Ran; she only needed time to get away from here!


    Zuo Ran had not expected her to fight back. She howled in fury, reaching out to grab Rong Dai''s hair.


    Rong Dai was prepared for this trick. After pulling Zuo Ran into the tub, she immediately pounced on her, pressing her down in the water!


    Zuo Ran choked down a few mouthfuls of water. With her vision obscured by bubbles, she had no time to react to Rong Dai''s quick and vicious attack!


    "You bitch..."


    "You''re the bitch! Shameless old hag with delusions!"


    Rong Dai was afraid yet full of hatred. Recalling Zuo Ran''s earlier threats, she couldn''t help pressing down a few more times before immediately climbing out of the tub.


    Bang!


    But her body was still covered in bubbles. Her feet slipped and she crashed heavily, knocking herself dizzy. Still, she scrambled up as quickly as she could!


    Rong Dai''s mind was focused to the utmost. She rushed out of the bathroom, mming the door shut behind her and looping the rope through the door handle before winding it around the wardrobe handle outside.


    All these contingency ns fell within her calctions. She grabbed a bathrobe to put on as she ran outside with the phone from the table!


    "You bitch!"


    Zuo Ran had already climbed out of the bathtub. Through the bathroom window, she stared at Rong Dai with vicious, resentful eyes.


    Zuo Ran''s entire body emanated a murderous aura. Her eyes were ominous, her neck red from being choked, herplexion pale. Blood trickled down her forehead where she had hit it, mixing with the droplets of water.


    She stood there like a female ghost crawled up from hell. Rong Dai gasped, feeling her entire scalp and the back of her neck go numb and icy cold!


    Snap, snap!


    Zuo Ran frantically tried to wrench open the bathroom door. Rong Dai was so rmed that her hands even shook a little. It was the middle of a scorching summer, yet her entire body was chilled as if she had fallen into an ice cer!


    Bang!


    Zuo Ran had actually smashed the bathroom window!


    Seeing the flying shards of ss, Rong Dai panicked, breaking out in a cold sweat. Why wouldn''t this damn door open?!


    Seeing Zuo Ran dripping wet, barefoot and stepping on the ss as she climbed out, the trail of bloodied water - Rong Dai felt like a stream of icy air was blowing right at the crown of her head!


    Was this even a person? She was clearly a vengeful spirit crawled up from hell!


    Rong Dai was so anxious that tears nearly spilled from her eyes!


    Snap, snap!


    Zuo Ran was still desperately trying to wrench the bathroom door open. Rong Dai was overjoyed to see the door finally open!


    She rushed to run outside.


    "I''ll kill you, you bitch! How dare you betray me!"


    Zuo Ran''s eyes were bloodshot as she shrieked, her voice piercing and shrill. She hadpletely lost her mind, rushing to the table to grab the dagger she had prepared earlier and charged at Rong Dai!


    Rong Dai''s face was bloodless, but her feet slipped again. Her entire body tumbled out into the corridor, and suddenly one of her ankles erupted in pain!


    She had been stabbed!

 Chapter 50: Bankrupting the Winchesters

    <h4>Chapter 50</h4>


    Rong Dai''s ankle was in excruciating pain as she watched the blood gush out. Her entire body froze in shock!


    Seeing Zuo Ran so close, she instinctively kicked towards his forehead!


    Zuo Ran was also injured, having been kicked in the head repeatedly by Rong Dai. His whole head was covered in blood.


    Momentarily disoriented, he struggled to get up after copsing to the ground.


    Seeing that Zuo Ran couldn''t get up, Rong Dai hurriedly clutched her bathrobe tightly around herself.


    Leaning on the door frame, she slowly got up and hobbled outside as fast as she could with her injured leg.


    When she finally made it downstairs, she thought she could find help.


    But there wasn''t a soul at the front desk!


    Realizing that no one hade to investigate all themotion they caused, Rong Dai''s heart sank. This was clearly orchestrated by Zuo Ran.


    Zuo Ran''s furious roars echoed from the hallway. Rong Dai swallowed hard, tore off the sash from her bathrobe, and hastily tied up her bleeding wound. Enduring the excruciating pain, she quickly made her way outside.


    Rong Dai thought there would be people outside, but when she stepped out, she was dumbfounded.


    The ce was deserted except for this lone homestay. It was located next to the seaside, the sound of crashing waves clearly audible.


    That madman had brought her to this ghostly ce?!


    Rong Dai was extremely desperate, but still rational.


    She now had to get as far away from that lunatic Zuo Ran as possible!


    Taking out the phone Zuo Ran used to record her, she quickly snapped some pictures of her surroundings to get her bearings. Dragging her injured leg, she disappeared into the dark night.


    "Vile woman!"


    Not long after Rong Dai left, Zuo Ran rushed out of the homestay with a sharp dagger in his hand, his face twisted in fury as he continued cursing her!


    ...


    In the police station conference room in Shenjing, the atmosphere was extremely oppressive.


    Huo Shaoting sat in a chair with aputer in front of him.


    He nced at his watch. It was already close to 9pm.


    His eyes cold, he looked at the Wen siblings and said in a chill tone, "I''ll give you two options."


    "One, confess everything clearly."


    "Two, wait for the Wen Corporation to go bankrupt."


    Seeing the data and information disyed on Huo''sputer screen, Wen Runlin''s expression changed drastically!


    These were the Wen Corporation''s overseas assets. What was he trying to do?!


    Strike at the Wen Corporation''s assets?!


    He looked at Huo Shaoting''s icy expression in shock and anger. Seeing Huo start typing on the keyboard, he instinctively rushed over to stop him but was blocked by his bodyguards.


    "Let''s begin now," said Huo coldly as he nced at his watch again.


    Even if Rong Dai was at fault, she was hiswful wife. How to discipline her was his business.


    No one had the right to meddle, much less bully her.


    "Brother Huo, you have to believe Shi Lan!"


    "Even if she did something wrong before, she would never dare do anything illegal!"


    Wen Runlin anxiously exined,pletely ignoring how things had spiraled to this point.


    Seeing Huo''s long fingers dancing nimbly across the keyboard, his heart was about to jump out of his chest!


    Huo ignored him and did not stop his actions.


    Wen Runlin watched the numbers change in horror, cold sweat dripping down his back!


    His phone rang soon after. It was his assistant calling.


    Wen Runlin hurriedly answered. After hearing what his assistant said, his face turned deathly pale!


    Wen Shi Lan was also dumbfounded. She hadn''t even had time to enjoy the video Zuo Ran sent her��the recording of Rong Dai.


    Seeing her brother''s ashen expression, she knew Huo Shaoting was serious!


    How could he do this to her?!


    Just for a Rong Dai, he would bankrupt her family?!


    Wen Shi Lan was filled with unwillingness, anger, and grievance!


    She didn''t understand why he had to cling to that wretched woman no matter what!


    "Shi Lan, Shi Lan!"


    Wen Runlin finally reacted and stumbled towards her, holding up his phone.


    "Hurry and tell Brother Huo this has nothing to do with you! Admit your mistakes to him quickly! Otherwise our Wen Corporation will be finished!"


    Seeing the changing numbers on her brother''s phone, Wen Shi Lan felt her hands and feet turn icy cold as her heart sank.


    He was serious...


    But why?!


    She had suffered so much just to be matched with him. She had done work she disliked and tried her utmost to be an outstanding, perfect woman, all for his sake!


    Why didn''t he understand?


    Why did he have to cling to that vile woman?!


    "Miss Wen, you''ve caused me great hardship!"


    Just as the Wen siblings were in dire straits, thewyer who had gotten Zuo Ran out on bail rushed into the conference room, drenched in sweat.


    Seeing Wen Shi Lan, he wished he could devour her.


    "Mr. Huo, I handled this matter improperly. Please be merciful..."


    He didn''t bother settling scores with Wen Shi Lan first but begged Huo Shaoting for forgiveness like a grandson.


    "Have you ever seen me show mercy?"


    Huo Shaoting''s expression was cold. He didn''t even nce at thewyer.


    He had only seized some of thewyer''s assets in passing. Until now, thewyer had lost just a few hundred thousand. Yet he already couldn''t keep his cool?


    "When you took this case, didn''t you consider investigating first? It''s toote now."


    Huo''s voice was icy.


    Han Shiqing shuddered in fright, unable to utter a word.


    After a while, he finally regained his senses. He hurriedly took out a stack of documents from his briefcase and respectfully ced them on the table.


    He red angrily at Wen Shi Lan, bowed deeply, and said to Huo Shaoting in a very respectful manner: "I was tactless this time and offended thedy. These documents are all I could find that might aid Mr. Huo."


    Huo Shaoting nced at him indifferently, not even looking at the documents as he said coldly, "Trying to fool me with trash?"


    Han Shiqing''s face turned white. Just then, Zhang, Huo''s assistant, walked in holding a cell phone which he handed to Huo Shaoting.


    "Sir, this video was just released a few minutes ago."


    "I''ve already had the tech team investigate. It was sent out from Miss Wen''s phone."


    Zhang didn''t hide anything, ncing at Wen Shi Lan as he reported.


    Huo Shaoting watched the video on the phone, his eyes turning extremely sinister.


    "Bring her phone here."


    Huo Shaoting ordered. The two security guards immediately stepped forward to carry out hismand.


    Wen Shi Lan shrank back in fright, her face pale as she resisted, "That''s my personal belonging! You don''t have the right to..."


    Before she finished speaking, her phone had already been seized. Lu Hong tactfully yed deaf and blind.


    Zhang examined her phone with gloved hands. Seeing that it waspletely empty, he couldn''t help but be astonished. "Sir, there''s nothing here."


    Wen Shi Lan secretly breathed a sigh of relief. She wasn''t that stupid to keep evidence!


    Her face instantly took on a wronged and fragile look as she cried, "Brother Huo, I..."


    "Have the tech team recover it," Huo Shaoting ordered sternly, not even sparing a nce or the corner of his eyes for Wen Shi Lan.


    That woman must be very frightened now...

 Chapter 51: Die Together

    <h4>Chapter 51</h4>


    Wen Shi Lan was stunned, she couldn''t believe her ears!


    Was he really going to send himself to jail?


    "Chairman Wen, you still have time to think about it."


    "Up until now, do you still think your sister is innocent? My wife has gone missing, and it''s all thanks to her."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was icy cold, and he nced coldly at Wen Runlin.


    Wen Runlin''s phone had been ringing nonstop, and he had received over ten calls in just a few minutes!


    Hearing Huo''s words, Wen Runlin''s gaze fell on the video that was leaked on Weibo.


    This ount...he had seen his little sister use it at home over the past few days.


    For a moment, indescribable anger and disappointment welled up in Wen Runlin''s heart!


    But even more, he felt anxious.


    His gaze suddenly became extremely cold as he looked at Wen Shi Lan: "I warned you not to have unrealistic desires for what doesn''t belong to you."


    "This time you not only deceived me, but caused such a huge blow to the family!"


    "Do you know that by doing this, you''re not only going to get yourself killed, but also bring the Wen family to ruin?!"


    "Wen Shi Lan, without the Wen family, do you think you can still get what you want?"


    "I''m really disappointed in you!"


    "This time, I can''t help you either, you have to take responsibility yourself!"


    Wen Shi Lan''s face instantly turned deathly pale. She looked at Wen Runlin in disbelief: "Brother, how can you say that?!"


    Wen Runlin looked deeply at her, took a deep breath, "I won''t interfere in this matter anymore. From childhood to adulthood, whenever you caused trouble, someone would take the me for you, so you''re not afraid."


    "But this time, you provoked someone you shouldn''t have."


    He looked again at Huo Shao Ting: "Big brother Huo, this time it was the Wen family''s fault."


    "But Wen Shi Lan is Wen Shi Lan, and the Wen family is the Wen family. The Wen family has lost so much now, we should be able topensate sister-inw."


    "As for how you want to hold Wen Shi Lan ountable, our Wen family will absolutely not interfere."


    Wen Runlin made a decisive judgment, bowed to Huo Shao Ting after speaking, then turned and left the conference room.


    Wen Shi Lan was stunned. She watched as Wen Runlin left without looking back, and immediately copsed on the ground.


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting, and suddenly burst into tears: "Why? Why don''t you just like me? What exactly did I do wrong? You want to deal with me like this..."


    Huo was displeased. At this moment, his phone on the table rang. It was an unfamiliar number.


    He frowned slightly, but still answered.


    "Shao Ting!"


    Rong Dai''s voice came from the other end of the phone.


    "It''s me!"


    Huo Shao Ting''s whole body shuddered. He quickly responded to her while gesturing to Lu Hong.


    "Quick, trace the signal!"


    Seeing him gesture, Lu Hong immediately instructed the technicians present.


    "Shao Ting,e save me quickly! Zuo Ran has gone crazy, she wants to kill me!"


    When Rong Dai heard his voice, it was as if she had grabbed onto a lifeline! She pleaded to him in a crying voice.


    Hearing her panic and choking voice, Huo Shao Ting felt like his heart was being twisted tightly into a ball!


    "Where are you?"


    "I...I don''t know, it''s very dark here, it''s a seaside, there''s just a single hostel, no one else is around."


    "I''ll send you the photos...my phone is about to die..."


    Hiding in the rock crevice, Rong Dai was still not panicking despite her fear.


    After speaking, she hurriedly sent him the photos she had just taken.


    Huo Shao Ting quickly received the photos. When he called back, the other party had already turned off their phone.


    Although Wen Shi Lan was crying, Huo Shao Ting had his phone on speaker to coordinate with Lu Hong''s tracking efforts.


    She could hear what Rong Dai was saying.


    Was this Zuo Ran an idiot?


    It takes that long tomit suicide for love?!


    "Chairman, I recovered the data."


    At this moment, Zhang walked in with Wen Shi Lan''s phone and found the ount she had used to leak the information.


    He discovered that the "explosive material" about Rong Dai on Weibo these past few days had alle from this ount, including today''s leaks.


    Huo Shao Ting told him to check the call and message records, andpare the phone number Rong Dai had just called from, they werepletely identical.


    "Lawyer Han, if you want me to show you leniency, there is still a chance."


    "Take over this case, handle it to my satisfaction, we can discuss anything."


    Huo Shao Ting threw Wen Shi Lan''s phone to Han Shiqing. With cold eyes, he nced at Wen Shi Lan from the corner of his eye.


    Han Shiqing, who had been present but hadn''t left, felt his heart skip a beat. He didn''t expect to cause such huge trouble from a moment of carelessness!


    But could he refuse?


    "Big brother Huo, what are you saying?"


    Wen Shi Lan looked at him in disbelief, her heart pounding wildly in panic!


    Han Shiqing was already executing his orders.


    Compared to offending the Huo family, he was more willing to offend the Wen family.


    The Wen family was doomed anyway!


    "I''ve tracked her location! But it will take at least six hours to get there now!"


    "It''s a small fishing port, it''s the off season now, there are almost no people in that area. I''ve already contacted the local police station."


    Lu Hong showed Huo Shao Ting on theputer, also breathing a sigh of relief in his heart.


    "I''ll leave this matter to you. If anyone else gets bailed out..."


    "That absolutely won''t happen!"


    Lu Hong hurriedly bowed with his hands sped, guaranteeing it!


    Huo Shao Ting immediately got up, Zhang packed up hisptop, and several people hurriedly left the police station.


    Lu Hong looked at Wen Shi Lan sitting on the ground, with an expression of shock and unwillingness.


    Offending the wrong person, she just had to offend Huo Shao Ting.


    When he turned ruthless, he didn''t recognize anyone, there was no way he would let her off because of the tiny amount of favor Wen Bo had shown him in the past.


    At this time, far away in the small fishing port, Rong Dai was hiding in a crevice between the seaside cliffs.


    Her injured ankle hurt a lot, and the sea breeze blew against her.


    Even in this kind of weather, she was still shivering from the cold.


    What was worse was that it started raining now, the raindrops falling on her, so cold that goosebumps appeared on her body again and again.


    She didn''t think she had ever been so miserable and panicked in her past life, it must be because she had lived too well in her previous life, and brought the Rong family to ruin, so Heaven was punishing her now.


    Rong Dai tried her best to stay awake, but it was easy for people to be exhausted after high levels of mental stress.


    Leaning against the rock crevice, she unknowingly fell asleep. In her dreams, Zuo Ran''s deranged and sinister face kept appearing, as if she had fallen into a quagmire, unable to wake up for a long time.


    It wasn''t until she heard the sound of dogs barking, which was really noisy, that she slowly opened her eyes.


    In the hazy dawn, she looked around for the source of the sound.


    Suddenly, she saw Zuo Ran''s twisted and crazy face less than three meters away from her!


    Rong Dai was so frightened her heart nearly jumped out!


    She saw a wolf dog barking wildly under the beach, no wonder Zuo Ran was able to find her so quickly!


    "Bitch! You sure can run!"


    Seeing that she had woken up, Zuo Ran immediately cursed at her.


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly, and beads of cold sweat instantly broke out!


    Her body alternated between hot and cold shes, overwhelmed by tremendous panic!


    This woman was simply insane!


    With her injured leg now, she couldn''t climb up or get down.


    Was she going to die together with this mad woman?


    She looked at the sandy ground below, she didn''t even know where she had gotten the courage to climb up herest night.


    If she fell down from here, if she didn''t die she''d be crippled!

 Chapter 52: The Death of Anfei Ya

    <h4>Chapter 52</h4>


    Rong Dai''s scalp tingled with fear as she looked at Zuo Ran, who was so close yet had a hideous and twisted expression. She estimated they were nearly 10-13 feet high up.


    She didn''t know where she had found the courage to climb up herest night! If not for this wolfhound, it would have been very difficult for Zuo Ran to find her.


    Seeing Zuo Ran''s disheveled hair and bloodshot eyes full of madness, Rong Dai''s heart shuddered with fear! This woman waspletely insane! She absolutely could not fall into her hands!


    Last night she had already contacted Huo Shao Ting. She had to endure and wait for him toe rescue her!


    Rong Dai tried to move her numb and stiff body. Her left ankle had been cutst night and was now numb from the pain.


    "You cheap woman, I told you that you could never escape my palm! You actually dared to deceive me! The price for deceiving me is death!"


    Zuo Ran stared at her fiercely, speaking each word viciously and maliciously!


    Rong Dai''s heart skipped a beat as she suddenly thought of the original host''s mother, An Fei Ya.


    An Fei Ya had a very good job. With her abilities, surviving in Shengjing would not have been a problem. So why did she get entangled with an extreme woman like Zuo Ran?


    Moreover, ording to the original host, An Fei Ya had died in a car ident after being treated in the hospital for over a month.


    Before she passed away, with her dying breath, she had entrusted the original host to the olddy. That led to everything that happened afterwards.


    But after interacting with Zuo Ran, Rong Dai realized that not only was this woman psychologically twisted, but she also had an extremely strong desire for control.


    shes of what Zuo Ran had said these past few days went through her mind. Rong Dai couldn''t help but feel a chill in her heart. She suspected that Zuo Ran was not unrted to An Fei Ya''s death!


    It was just that the rtionship between An Fei Ya and Zuo Ran was not epted by society. Although she didn''t understand why a woman with normal orientation would suddenly establish this kind of rtionship with Zuo Ran.


    But An Fei Ya had such a respectable job, she must have noticed Zuo Ran''s abnormality.


    So she wanted to escape from Zuo Ran, but failed.


    And after An Fei Ya died, not only did Zuo Ran not get over this resentment, she even transferred it onto the original host, herself!


    All these thoughts shed through her mind in an instant, and she immediately calmed down.


    Even if she jumped down now and didn''t die or be disabled, her foot injury was serious enough that she definitely couldn''t outrun Zuo Ran.


    Her only option was to stall for time until Huo Shao Ting arrived!


    "Was my mother''s car ident rted to you?"


    Faced with Rong Dai''s sudden questioning, Zuo Ran was startled at first, then seemed guilty as she deliberately avoided Rong Dai''s gaze.


    It must be rted!


    Rong Dai was skilled at reading bodynguage. Zuo Ran''s guilty expression already revealed many problems.


    "Did you kill my mother!?"


    Seeing her remain silent, the ferocity on Rong Dai seemed to wither away. In an instant, her aura as a queen naturally erupted!


    Only when you were more vicious than this madwoman would she be afraid.


    "I''m asking you! Did you kill my mother!?" She nearly roared out this sentence, her manner extremely aggressive!


    Moreover, she liked to look directly into the other''s eyes. The mental and visual impact would create tremendous pressure.


    "No wonder my mother would rather entrust me to someone else before she died, and not you! My mother didn''t prosecute you and put you in jail, that was already the greatest benevolence! Yet now you want to harm me too! Where is your conscience!?"


    Rong Dai berated her, while also admiring her own acting skills, doing as she thought of.


    "Fart! She had no evidence to prove it was me!"


    Zuo Ran reflexively retorted, looking at Rong Dai fiercely and angrily, without a shred of remorse.


    Just as expected!


    This sentence instantly let Rong Dai understand that An Fei Ya''s death was not idental, but caused by Zuo Ran!


    This was murder!


    "So you did kill my mother! How can you still have the gall to disturb my life!? You''re the one with issues, now you want to drag my mother and I down with you!?"


    Rong Dai berated furiously, also extremely agitated.


    Zuo Ran''s momentum waspletely suppressed by her, but the madness in her eyes still did not disappear.


    "She betrayed me first!"


    "Clearly you were the one controlling my mother! My mother was a normal woman, otherwise how could she have given birth to me? Don''t tell me I was born from you two together!"


    Rong Dai also yelled loudly. As long as her momentum was stronger than hers, it was right!


    As long as she could suppress this madwoman, every second counted.


    "And my mother had a respectable job. But what were you doing yourself, don''t you know clearly in your heart? Zuo Ran, you''re just a selfish, greedy madwoman! You killed my mother, caused me to lose my mother. Now you still want to harm me!"


    "Do you think that when you go to hell, my mother will forgive you? That''s impossible! You killed her, yet hope she''ll forgive you? I won''t agree, my mother won''t agree either!"


    Rong Dai''s momentum went to her head. Looking at Zuo Ran, her gaze was even fiercer.


    "I didn''t intend to kill her! I just wanted to scare her, it was her own fault that she crashed into it. What does that have to do with me!?"


    Zuo Ran was also yelled at by her until her mind went nk. Clenching her neck, she angrily retorted.


    "But my mother still died, you killed her! I won''t forgive you! I won''t be your puppet! If you dare force me, even if I die, you''ll get nothing! Even in death my soul won''t be yours!"


    Rong Dai yelled down at her, but her heart was growing calmer. She estimated the distance, falling down from here wouldn''t kill her, but could at least injure Zuo Ran.


    She couldn''t let this madwoman get close, or the one dying would be her!


    "Little Dai, little Dai! Listen to me exin, I really didn''t intend to harm your mother. Don''t you still have me? I can take care of you, love you forever. Only I won''t abandon you."


    Zuo Ran was clearly greatly provoked. Seeing Rong Dai''s huge reaction, she inexplicably panicked and couldn''t help climbing higher.


    "Woof woof woof!"


    The wolfhound standing on the beach barked even more fiercely, staring fixedly at the two, seeming very anxious.


    "I don''t love you! I''m normal. I need a normal family, a normal life. I have no issues with my orientation! Don''t try to destroy me!"


    Rong Dai also seemed to have lost control, roaring loudly. But she didn''t neglect Zuo Ran''s small movements. Seeing her get close, Rong Dai fiercely raised her right leg and kicked viciously at her shoulder!


    Clearly Zuo Ran also didn''t expect her to actually attack. But it was almost instinctive reaction, she instantly grabbed Rong Dai''s right ankle!


    Rong Dai''s face drastically changed! Before she could even scream, her whole body was pulled out and plunged down madly!


    Bang!


    She only heard a huge sound beside her ear. Her body seemed to roll over a few times, then she lost consciousness, without even a chance to see what happened to Zuo Ran.

 Chapter 53: Go to Hell Together

    <h4>Chapter 53</h4>


    "Woof woof woof!"


    Rong Dai also did not know how long she had been unconscious for. The loud barking of the wolves by her ear was deafening, forcing her to struggle to open her eyes.


    As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw Zuo Ran, who was no more than two meters away to her left and right, had also just woken up. Her breathing stalled for a moment! She instinctively wanted to pull away first!


    However, a sharp pain shot through her chest and the wound on her ankle split open again. Warm blood kept gushing out, and the stabbing pain spread through her limbs and prated deep into her bones, causing her to break out in cold sweats continuously.


    "Little Dai, I said no one could take you away. You''re mine."


    Zuo Ran struggled up from the ground, spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood. One of her legs was also broken from the fall. Gripping the fruit knife that had dropped to the ground, she limped towards her, with a crazy and sinister smile on her face!


    Rong Dai felt as though all the blood in her body was about to freeze. She kept retreating backwards. She felt the smooth pebbles in her hand and her heart steadied slightly.


    "I will never be with you!" She said to Zuo Ran very decisively.


    Zuo Ran dragged her injured leg and walked up to her. Her eyes were filled with a kind of insane light!


    "Then let''s die together and go to hell together to find your mother. Our family can finally be reunited, hahaha..."


    She held up the dagger, with a smile on her face like a demon!


    Rong Dai''s heart jumped to her throat. Her scalp tingled and turned cold. She could even clearly feel every drop of cold sweat trickling down.


    Seeing the knifeing down, she dodged sharply to the side. The fruit knife plunged into the sand where she was just sitting, with the handle almostpletely sunken into the yellow sand!


    Rong Dai looked at it in horror. Zuo Ran had used all her might in that stab. She did not expect Rong Dai to dodge so quickly, losing her bnce and falling to the ground.


    Rong Dai ignored everything else, grabbed the pebbles and swung at her!


    Zuo Ran screamed miserably as Rong Dai struck quickly and fiercely!


    She was afraid of smashing Zuo Ran''s brain, so she deliberately beat her injured leg violently!


    Zuo Ran''s agonizing screams echoed far across the beach. The wolf dog, seeing Rong Dai fighting so fiercely, only dared to bark incessantly from a distance!


    Rong Dai listened irritably to its barking. When Zuo Ran''s resistance gradually weakened, her whole body went limp. She dragged her injured body off Zuo Ran, still clutching the pebble in her hand.


    She pulled out the fruit knife and limped to lean against the rock below, keeping a distance of about ten meters from Zuo Ran.


    The August sun was still scorching hot even in the morning. Under the dazzling golden sunshine, Rong Dai looked at Zuo Ran lying on her back with barely visible rising and falling of her chest, and a huge boulder in her heart finally lifted!


    After rxing her body and mind, she realized the severity of her own injuries. Falling from the rock crevice had caused them considerable harm.


    She also did not expect Zuo Ran to react so quickly to be able to grab her ankle in time.


    Woof woof woof!


    The wolf dog was still barking, running around restlessly, constantly wagging its tail and whining at Rong Dai.


    "You dog..." Rong Dai smiled helplessly. She did not even have the strength to speak.


    The wolf dog suddenly ran away. Rong Dai was toozy to pay attention to it, her eyes never leaving Zuo Ran.


    "What bad luck! How can she be so tough?"


    "You promised to take me here to rx. But you used me as a human GPS to find someone! Huo ShaoJie, can''t you be more reliable in handling things?"


    It was... little sister Huo MeiShu''s voice!


    Rong Dai''s muddled mind was jolted alert. She was overjoyed and looked around to find the source of the voice. Dragging her injured body, she went to find people.


    "I... I''m here..."


    Her voice was hoarse. Yelling at Zuo Ran earlier had strained her throat.


    Rong Dai''s mind was focused entirely on this voice that she did not notice Zuo Ran''s eyes regaining focus.


    Zuo Ran struggled to roll over. Her leg was badly injured from Rong Dai''s heavy blows. To avoid killing her, Rong Dai had avoided hitting her head, afraid of beating her to death.


    Piercing, excruciating pain surged over her. Zuo Ran seemed numb to it. She dug around in the sand and also found a pebble. Lying on the beach, she flung it at Rong Dai.


    "Ah!"


    Rong Dai''s injured ankle was smashed heavily, and the acute suffocating pain assaulted her! She cried out in agony, her body lurching forward, breaking out inyer uponyer of cold sweat!


    "You slut! If I die, I''m taking you with me!"


    Zuo Ran went mad, taking advantage of Rong Dai''s unbearable pain to grab her leg and crawl onto her, lifting the pebble to beat Rong Dai frantically!


    Rong Dai hurriedly shielded her head. The sharp pain in her ankle prevented her from thinking clearly for a moment, and she was beaten several times in a row.


    The taste of blood filled her mouth. Rong Dai''s vision darkened, but a voice in her heart kept shouting at her to endure!


    Seeing Zuo Ran''s ear swaying in front of her, Rong Dai''s eyes glinted viciously as she lunged forward and bit it!


    "Ah!"


    Zuo Ran also screamed. The pebble in her hand was immediately thrown away as both hands tugged at Rong Dai''s mouth desperately.


    But Rong Dai seemed to have acquired tremendous strength from somewhere, biting down tightly and refusing to let go!


    "There''s noise over there!"


    Huo ShaoJie ignored Huo MeiShu''s nagging. Hearing Zuo Ran''s extremely miserable shriek, he led the police who hade with them towards the source of the sound.


    Seeing them, the wolf dog immediately crouched down and barked wildly, running back and forth, clearly trying to lead them over there.


    "There are people over there, let''s go check it out first." One of the policemen said, and everyone followed the wolf dog as it ran over.


    And so they saw this extremely horrifying scene. The two women were covered in injuries and blood stains.


    One was biting an ear tightly and refusing to let go, while the other pped desperately, trying to pry open her opponent''s mouth.


    "Sister-inw!"


    Huo ShaoJie reacted first. He immediately sprinted over, his heart pounding violently, eyes filled with shock.


    Huo MeiShu, who was full ofints just now, was shocked to see Rong Dai fighting with Zuo Ran, so gravely injured that she could not believe her eyes!


    "Quick, separate them!"


    Huo ShaoJie was scared to death. If big brother saw this, he would be heartbroken to death!


    When Rong Dai truly saw Huo ShaoJie appear before her eyes, with her face beaten ck and blue, caked with half-dried blood, her tears instantly gushed out and she immediately let go of her mouth.


    The two policemen also acted very quickly to pull Zuo Ran away. Huo MeiShu''s hand holding her phone trembled violently as she immediately called Huo ShaoTing.

 Chapter 54: Don鈥檛 be afraid, I鈥檓 coming.

    <h4>Chapter 54</h4>


    Huo ShaoJie looked at Rong Dai, who was covered in scars. He didn''t know where to start treating her. After Huo Mei Shu made a phone call, she took off her sun protection clothing and covered Rong Dai with it.


    "Thank...thank you."


    Rong Dai was extremely weak. Although the youngdy didn''t like her, Rong Dai was still very happy to see the youngdy at this moment.


    Huo Mei Shu looked ufortable: "Who cares about your thanks." She thought it was inappropriate, especially after seeing Rong Dai''s injuries. Her voice softened, "If you want to sleep, just sleep. Eldest brother will be here soon."


    Rong Dai nodded, but she stubbornly kept her eyes open until the sound of helicopter rotors came from the sky. She saw that man walking towards her like a god.


    Her eyes were like floodgates that had been opened, with tears gushing out wildly. She thought she was really going to die this time.


    "Wife."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t call her Rong Dai, but called her wife. He almost sprinted to her and didn''t care that the ground was covered in blood stains or that his expensive suit would be ruined. He knelt directly in front of her and bent over to whisper in her ear.


    Not even in her previous life had Rong Dai been so desperate, nor had she anticipated someone''s arrival so much.


    Her wish came true.


    Her face was badly battered and swollen beyond recognition. Her originally bright and spirited eyes were reduced to two narrow slits.


    "Shao Ting..." She struggled to utter these two words from her throat, full of grievance, joy, and many otherplex emotions.


    "I''m here, don''t be afraid." Huo Shao Ting looked at her gently, but didn''t dare touch her for fear of causing her secondary injuries.


    "If you''re tired, just go to sleep. I''ll be by your side."


    Huo Shao Ting suppressed the raging anger in his heart. His heart trembled and ached. Seeing that she kept staring at him, he gently stroked her cheek with his slender fingers.


    Rong Dai was exhausted. She blinked and was left with only a buzzing din around her ears. She fell asleep after a few seconds.


    Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu watched their eldest brother''s gentle actions from the side. They didn''t expect Rong Dai to be so important to him. For a time, all kinds of feelings welled up in their hearts.


    Rong Dai and Zuo Ran were soon taken away on the helicopter. Since this was the scene of the crime, someone still needed to remain.


    "Eldest brother, you and Mei Shu go apany sister-inw. I''ll stay here and handle things." Huo ShaoJie made a decisive decision. This matter could not be left as it was.


    This matter had already greatly impacted Rong Dai. The inte was already exploding!


    Although the Huo Corporation''s public rtions department acted swiftly, the Huo Corporation''s influence in Shenjing was too great.


    What''s more, those sensationalist tabloids just made up stories based on snippets. To handle this matter properly, they had to wait for the police to thoroughly investigate.


    With the results, it would be much easier to manage the online fallout.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. Huo Mei Shu followed closely behind as the two left with the helicopter.


    Because the injuries could not be dyed, they went directly to the hospital with the best medical facilities nearby.


    "I''m going into the operating room." Seeing Rong Dai being pushed in, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes darkened. It was so cold in there, she must be afraid.


    The doctor was immediately in a dilemma. If it was an ordinary family member, they would have refused. But this time was different.


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to make such a request, but saving the person was most important.


    "That''s my eldest sister-inw. My elder brother is worried my sister-inw will be scared. He will just stand by and not affect your work."


    The doctors didn''t dare say much more. The hospital director quickly came to handle things and agreed to let Huo Shao Ting enter the operating room.


    After being fully sterilized, Huo Shao Ting entered the operating room and saw Rong Dai lying unconscious under the shadowlessmp. He clenched his fists tightly until his knuckles turned white.


    "There is no bleeding in the patient''s abdominal cavity. Three ribs on her left side are broken. The most serious injury is her leg. The rest are external injuries."


    The doctor quickly diagnosed and then carefully removed the bathrobe soakedpletely red with blood.


    An almost 10-centimeter wound ran from the top of her foot through her ankle, exposing the bone. The skin and flesh were twisted with yellow sand on it.


    "Prepare anesthesia." The doctors in the operating room worked steadily.


    Since there were no issues with the abdominal cavity, the operation was quicklypleted. Rong Dai was sent out of the operating room and Huo Shao Ting also took off his protective clothing.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s swollen face that looked like a pig''s head on the hospital bed, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes darkened sinisterly.


    "Eldest brother, I''ll...I''ll look after sister-inw. There are some matters you still need to handle."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at Rong Dai on the bed. She originally didn''t harbor much resentment towards her. Over the past two days, she had also seen the news that exploded online, which had dissipated her resentment.


    "Mm." Huo Shao Ting nodded, turned and walked out of the ICU ward.


    "How is the other person?" Seeing Assistant Zhange over, he asked.


    He would not let that woman die. Death would be a release for her. Staying alive would be torture.


    "The situation does not look optimistic. That leg is definitely crippled. Based on the investigation of the scene, she and Madam fell from the crevice at the same time. She cushioned the impact so her spleen was also affected."


    Assistant Zhang quickly reported. He was really scared to death this time!


    Huo Shao Ting''s face was cold as he sinisterly nced in the direction of the operating room. His voice was low as he instructed him, "Send her to Shenjing and get the best medical team to treat her. I want her alive."


    Assistant Zhang understood. In his heart, he couldn''t help but mourn for Zuo Ran. Offending the CEO meant she couldn''t even die if she wanted to.


    Soon, arrangements were made to send Zuo Ran back to Shenjing. As for Rong Dai, she slept for two days in the hospital bed before slowly opening her eyes in the afternoon of the third day.


    Seeing the snow-white hospital room, she moved her hand and suddenly touched something soft.


    She looked over and saw that Huo Shao Ting was actually sleeping with his head on her hospital bed.


    She had never observed this man so closely before. The scene of him sprinting madly towards her floated up in her mind.


    The cracks in her deste heart slowly split open and a tender sprout slowly emerged.


    This time, the danger was too terrifying. Looking at the man in front of her, she felt extremely safe. Her trust had not been betrayed.


    This man was perhaps not the same as others, but she truly felt the warmth of being cared for and loved.


    Such things were not tolerated by the secr world. If it were another man, divorce would probably have already happened. He wouldn''t have cared at all.


    But from beginning to end, he never asked why. He only confirmed that her orientation was not a problem. He didn''t utter a word of me.


    "Huo Shao Ting, shall we...not divorce even after a year?"


    She couldn''t help but murmur. Her eyes shone brightly like stained ss.


    In her previous life, she only indulged in her own joy, and didn''t notice the emperor''s kindness towards her and his other consorts.


    The emperor said he loved her and would protect her forever, but in the blink of an eye, he banished her entire n.


    While this second life was still short, she truly felt cared for and loved. This man...she was a little reluctant to miss out.

 Chapter 55: It鈥檚 Not Easy Being My Wife

    <h4>Chapter 55</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting had actually already woken up when her hand touched his hair. He was a light sleeper, the slightest sound could startle him awake.


    He had heard everything Rong Dai said, his heart thumping uncontrobly for a moment. Of course he didn''t want a divorce.


    Although the two had grown apart after getting married, the subtle changes in her recently had attracted him, making him want to get to know her.


    He really wanted to know what was in her heart, and to enter her world.


    In Huo Shao Ting''s world, he had never given up on something without trying his best first.


    Before he could say anything, he heard Rong Dai speak again. He decided to just continue lying there with his eyes closed and listen.


    Rong Dai looked out the window at the setting sun, its brilliant rays coloring the clouds different hues.


    Her eyes were gentle, sighing lightly. Her gaze fell back on Huo Shao Ting.


    "Other than my parents, siblings, and even him... it''s probably just typical of men. But you''ve shown me something different, yet it seems this kind of good fortune probably won''t happen to me again. My sins run too deep..."


    Rong Dai''s eyes instantly dimmed. In her past life, she had caused her n to suffer such a tragic fate, and she herself had not met a good end either.


    Yet somehow she had received the mercy of Heaven, or rather, its punishment.


    Because when one died, everything disappeared like smoke. Only in living was there true suffering.


    "Huo Shao Ting, this year I will be a good wife to you, and thank you for what you''ve done for me."


    She whispered softly, retracting her hand. Her gaze fell back to the sunset outside the window, her eyes unfocused, her whole being cloaked in ayer of mncholy.


    Huo Shao Ting heard every word she said clearly. His mind was full of bewilderment and confusion.


    The things this woman said were so strange.


    Wasn''t Lady Anyi alone? She only had this one daughter beside her. She hadn''t even revealed who her father was, let alone having any siblings.


    And who was this "him"?


    Was this woman delirious?


    Although these were his thoughts, Huo Shao Ting still made a mental note of it.


    She wouldn''t say such baffling things for no reason. Perhaps there were some things he needed to investigate to get to the bottom of this.


    Huo Shao Ting pretended to sleep for another half hour before "waking up". As soon as he raised his head, his gaze happened to meet Rong Dai''s directly.


    The sunseting in through the window fell on them, cloaking them in ayer of golden light, soft and gentle, evoking a beautiful sense of time standing still.


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but cringe at how poorly timed this was. She quietly retreated back out into the hallway to wait.


    The glow made his eyes transparent, she could even clearly see the color of his irises. Rong Dai''s ears turned red, her cheeks flushing as well, her heartbeat quickening uncontrobly.


    She couldn''t help raising her hand to clutch at her chest, aggravating the scabbed over wounds on her arm, making her frown slightly in pain.


    "You''re injured all over, don''t move around randomly."


    Huo Shao Ting also came back to his senses. He awkwardly averted his gaze and got up to pour her a ss of warm water.


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai didn''t dare look him in the eye. She carefully took a small sip from the cup he handed her.


    Huo Shao Ting looked down at her fluffy head, really wanting to reach out and stroke it, to tell her what was on his mind.


    But he was also a little worried it would startle her. She had been badly frightened this time. It would be better to wait a while longer to talk about it.


    "There are still a few video conferences for work I need to attend at thepany. I''ll head back to the hotel first. Mei Shu is here to take care of you. She won''t mistreat you. If you don''t feelfortable with Mei Shu looking after you, a nurse cane tomorrow."


    His voice was low and maic, the husky tones softened to be very gentle, sounding like a melody. The blush on Rong Dai''s ears still hadn''t faded, and she didn''t dare look at him either. She silently nodded, cradling the cup.


    Huo Shao Ting waited several seconds, but she didn''t say anything. He felt a little glum, but still said goodbye before leaving the hospital room.


    "Big brother, don''t worry... I won''t mistreat sister-inw. I was in the wrong before, I will apologize to her."


    Seeing Huo Shao Tinge out, Huo Mei Shu leaned against the wall and called out to him. She then hurriedly lowered her head again to look at her toes that she was lightly kicking.


    This time, Rong Dai had gained good fortune from a bad situation, allowing Huo Mei Shu to resolve her prejudice.


    The cause and details of the incident had been thoroughly investigated. Although she couldn''t empathize with the kind of terror Rong Dai felt, she could understand Rong Dai''s inferiorityplex.


    She probably felt guilty toward big brother because of this incident, and that she had schemed against their Huo family. Thinking she was unworthy of big brother, that was why she had rejected all friendly overtures, right?


    These past few days, she had oftene to see Rong Dai. Recalling how she had fought fiercely with Zuo Ran when they found her, even now it still made her heart race anxiously.


    Huo Shao Ting looked down at her, his handsome face still cold and stern as before: "It''s good that you understand now. I''m going back for a few video conferences, then I''ll return. Don''t go anywhere, someone has to stay by her side."


    Huo Mei Shu instantly felt like a mouthful of old blood was stuck in her throat. She looked up sharply at her big brother, feeling torn betweenughing and crying.


    He was still her own elder brother after all. He really wasn''t polite at all!


    "In the past, being good to you and protecting you was my duty as the eldest brother. Now you''ve all grown up. Especially you, you should hurry up and find someone to protect you. I need to protect my wife now."


    Huo Shao Ting pondered, then added another sentence.


    Huo Mei Shu: "..."


    What had she done wrong today? Was her big brother trying to force feed her dog food?


    "Rong Dai is my wife. I hope you learn to respect her in the future. And thank you for respecting me so diligently. But if there''s anything about my wife that makes you ufortable or unhappy,e talk to me about it. Don''t make things difficult for her. It''s not easy for her being the daughter-inw of the Huo family, and even less easy being my wife."


    They had barely been married for a while before she was kidnapped. Others kidnapped for money, she was kidnapped and forced to die together. How could that not be difficult?


    Huo Mei Shu: "..."


    Alright! She hade today to be abused!

 Chapter 56: Throw Money at Her

    <h4>Chapter 56</h4>


    Ten thousand yuan was transferred to Alipay.


    Huo Mei Shu was just about to speak when she heard the notification sound from her own cell phone. She quickly took out her phone and saw that it was a transfer from her own brother standing in front of her.


    Huo Shao Ting put away his phone with his face still cold and looked at her, "This is the hardship fee for taking care of your sister-inw these past few days. When your sister-inw is discharged from the hospital and I return to Shenjing, we can discuss if you need anything else."


    Huo Mei Shu: "..."


    As expected of her brother, he actually tried to bribe her with money!


    "Your sister-inw is not having an easy time. My mother''s side needs your help speaking positively. I know you''ve always wanted to organize a music concert. I''ll give you this money to use for wherever you want to hold it."


    Huo Shao Ting thought some more and felt it still wasn''t enough. He had been a bit harsh with his wordsst time. Although Rong Dai had her reasons for doing what she did, it did end up hurting Huo Mei Shu and his mother''s feelings. Somepensation was necessary.


    Huo Mei Shu was speechless again. She finally saw her brother''s "true colors" - he resorts to bribing at the slightest disagreement!


    But...she somehow goes for it anyway! How unfair is this! What sin had shemitted to end up with a brother like this!


    Not only does he force-feed her dog food, he wants to "humiliate" her with money!


    "Alright, alright, I got it. I''ll definitely say something. You should leave now, sister-inw is still hungry."


    Huo Mei Shu really couldn''t stand it anymore and hurried him out.


    Seeing her reaction, Huo Shao Ting knew she had epted it, and finally left the hospital reassured.


    After he had left, Huo Mei Shu let out a long sigh of relief, before entering the ward several secondster.


    "Sister-inw, my brother has left."


    She saw Rong Dai sitting on the bed in a daze, holding a cup of water, with suspicious red flush on her cheeks. She couldn''t help but re at the sky.


    She was really asking for it,ing here to eat dog food for no reason!


    Rong Dai snapped back to reality. Seeing it was her, she quickly put the cup on the stand next to the bed.


    "Mei Shu, thank you for your trouble."


    Huo Mei Shu shrugged. She opened the thermal food container and started scooping porridge while looking her up and down, "Even though your injury is on your leg, you''re still a patient. That kind of thing...there''s no rush when my brother is around."


    Rong Dai''s face immediately turned red as she hurriedly exined, "Mei Shu, it''s not what you think..."


    "You''re husband and wife. After such a life-threatening experience, it''s natural for emotions to run high, like a raging fire. And my brother was a monk for so many years, I can understand. But you can''t be like this now. My brother can''t control himself so don''t let him act recklessly."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    How did this get more and more preposterous? And the more she exined, the less clear it became!


    "Here, you''ve been lying in bed for two days. The IV fluids can''t rece meals. Drink some light porridge first to settle your stomach. Once your appetitees back, I''ll make you some soup."


    Huo Mei Shu blew on the hot porridge to cool it down before handing it to her. She pulled up a chair and sat at the bedside.


    "Thank you." Rong Dai gave thanks. She was quite hungry so she finished the in porridge one sip at a time.


    "You just woke up so this much is good for now. I''ll make some pigeon soup for you tonight to help your wounds heal faster."


    Huo Mei Shu took back the bowl and carefully instructed her. She showed no signs of their previous argument.


    On the other hand, Rong Dai still remembered the incident. And such a serious matter had urred in less than half a month. She didn''t need to think to know the chaos that must have erupted outside.


    This time, she had definitely brought disaster to the Huo family. So she felt rather restrained.


    Huo Mei Shu crossed her arms and leaned back in the chair, her long legs stacked, looking quite roguish.


    She stared at Rong Dai for a few seconds before speaking up.


    "Tell me, what exactly is going on between you and that Zuo Ran woman? The truth is already out but I still want to hear you exin in your own words. I can''t let my brother be cuckolded by you like this. I need to confirm you have normal preferences."


    Rong Dai felt awkward. This little sister really dared to ask.


    But she knew she couldn''t avoid this matter sooner orter. She would have to provide an exnation to the Huo family eventually.


    Whether or not the original host had difficulties, such deception was hard to tolerate even for an ordinary family, let alone the Huo family was no ordinary family.


    She looked at Huo Mei Shu solemnly, pondering for a bit before speaking up.


    "I''m very sorry about this matter, for hiding it from all of you and deceiving the Huo family."


    Huo Mei Shu pressed her lips together without speaking, just watching her calmly. Rong Dai didn''t need to exin this point that she already knew.


    "But my preferences arepletely normal. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have agreed to marry Shao Ting. Back then, my mother only brought this up because she wanted me to escape Zuo Ran''s control and live a normal life. After finding out Grandma was from the Huo family, she had no choice but to speak up. Because normal families have no way of dealing with Zuo Ran."


    "That is indeed true." Huo Mei Shu nodded. Just thinking about Zuo Ran''s obsessive madness made her feel afraid.


    "Your brother treats me very well, but I...hate myself." Rong Dai lied without batting an eye.


    No matter if the encounter with the original host in her dream was real or not, the original host was gone. She was herself now so she had to say this.


    "Zuo Ran is mentally twisted. She is capable of anything. I''ve wanted to escape countless times over the years but each time I tried to leave, she would hurt my mother to punish me."


    Rong Dai''s eyes dulled with helplessness and fear, and also a trace of anger.


    "Her preferences are very warped. To avoid her harming my body, I could only silently endure her maniptions. I thought that after marrying into the Huo family, she would be intimidated and leave me be."


    "But I never imagined she would be so deranged and cruel. At first, she only said she wanted money and would leave me alone after getting it. I still had some savings left by my mother and gave it all to her. I was so desperate for a normal life."


    As she spoke, she unknowingly became emotional herself, with tears welling up in her eyes.


    If not for personally experiencing Zuo Ran''s torment, perhaps she wouldn''t feel so deeply about this. She likely wouldn''t be able to understand the despair in the original host''s heart.


    "But her appetite grewrger andrger. I...I had no more money, so I could only take the things you and mother and grandma gave me and sell them to give her money. I thought that would satisfy her, but she was still greedy, threatening and intimidating me. If I rebelled, she said she would tell Shao Ting and all of you. Then I..."


    Tears rolled down Rong Dai''s cheeks. The terror of being held captive by Zuo Ran assaulted her once more and she couldn''t help trembling all over.


    "Thest time I went to see her, I wanted to make things clear with her. I knew I had wronged Shao Ting and your kindness towards me. So...I wanted toe clean, but when I thought about how deranged she was, that she actually wanted to kill me!"

 Chapter 57: The Help of Sister-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 57</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu also felt heartache when she heard this. She thought about how she didn''t know anything before and was so harsh to Rong Dai. She felt guilty in her heart.


    She reached out to take some tissues and handed them to Rong Dai, her voice apologetic, "Sister-inw, before...I was ignorant and argued with you...I''m sorry."


    Rong Dai didn''t expect Huo Mei Shu to apologize to her. She couldn''t help but sigh lightly in her heart. Well-educated people are just different.


    Looking at the whole thing, although she was the victim, the original owner was also a victim. But after all, it was the original owner and her mother who took advantage of them first.


    However, they were able to distinguish right from wrong.


    This is the biggest difference in upbringing.


    She wiped away her tears. Her eyes were still red as she shook her head, "I should be the one to say sorry. I''m very sorry about this matter. It was me and my mother who deceived you first. And now even the Huo family is affected."


    Huo Mei Shu thought of her elder brother who had been living all these years for their family.


    Although Rong Dai''s affairs were inconceivable, as long as her elder brother liked her and didn''t give up on Rong Dai, she could certainly ept it.


    Besides, she had never seen her elder brother so alive before. To have someone make him live with joy, anger, sorrow and happiness, this was a very good thing.


    All these years, they had been trying to make the elder brother happy, but he always remained cold and aloof.


    Although there were unhappy events after their marriage, through this incident, she felt the change in her elder brother.


    She only wished the best for her elder brother. Since he liked Rong Dai, she would support him unconditionally.


    "It''s your own stupidity. Since my brother has chosen you, he won''t care about so many things. Unless you really have a problem with your orientation, that would truly hurt my elder brother."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her, her eyes gentle but mixed with some resentment.


    "If you had told us from the beginning, even if my brother wouldn''t choose you as his wife, considering your mother once saved our grandmother, he wouldn''t just stand by on this matter."


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head helplessly at her, "If you had spoken up then, this wouldn''t have happened. If you didn''t have the strength to resist Zuo Ran, she really could have pulled you to die with her! Or you could have fallen to your death!"


    "Since you knew she was insane and so vicious, and that she would hurt you, you should have spoken up earlier."


    Rong Dai could only silently nod. What else could she say?


    She didn''t know what the original owner was thinking at the time. Or perhaps the original owner was truly too inferior and might have really fallen in love with Huo Shao Ting.


    She thought she was dirty and unworthy of Huo Shao Ting, so she chose to conceal it.


    As for herself, she only wanted to survive. She didn''t have any improper thoughts about Huo Shao Ting. That''s why she provoked Zuo Ran, leading to the current situation.


    Although the matter was appalling, it wasn''t without benefits for her.


    At least she didn''t need to worry about such outrageous things happening again.


    "Let bygones be bygones. With elder brother and second brother handling this, just focus on recovering. Don''t think too much about other things. I can respect you and treat you well, but the premise is you have to be good to my elder brother."


    Huo Mei Shuforted her.


    Rong Dai found herfort a bitughable and cryable at the same time, but she understood Huo Mei Shu''s mentality.


    In her previous life, she had seen too many things like this.


    They would only respect you because your husband''s family was excellent enough, or your status was noble enough.


    Whereas she currently had nothing - no skills, no talents, no job. She was a good-for-nothing.


    On top of that, she had gotten into such an inconceivable matter, tarnishing the Huo family''s name. For the young sister-inw to say these words to her was already giving her a lot of face.


    This kind of respect still had to be earned by herself.


    "Does Grandma know about this? I...I''m afraid she would be very sad if she knew. And mother, she must be very angry."


    Thinking of these matters, she thought of the olddy and mother-inw.


    There was no need to mention the mother-inw. She was originally dissatisfied with the original owner. Now with such a scandal, she would surely be angry if she wasn''t.


    As for the olddy, she sincerely wanted the original owner to be her daughter-inw.


    Otherwise, with such a prestigious family like the Huo''s, if Huo Shao Ting wanted to find an equally excellent woman of simr status as his wife, there would be countless options. Why choose the original owner?


    She wasn''t afraid of the mother-inw being angry. She was afraid of hurting the olddy''s heart.


    "Grandma is overseas now so she won''t get the news so quickly. We won''t mention it either. But you''ll have to choose a time to tell Grandma yourself. Grandma really likes you, although I''ve never understood why."


    Huo Mei Shu spoke with blunt honesty that Rong Dai couldn''t help but feel embarrassed.


    "As for mother, how could she not be angry? If you were in her shoes, wouldn''t you be angry if your daughter-inw hid such a big matter?"


    "Certainly angry." Rong Dai answered very honestly.


    "But being angry is one thing. We''re still family. She''ll just be angry for a few days. When you''ve recovered, give her some gifts and coax her, then things will be fine."


    Huo Mei Shu gave her suggestions, sighing lightly, "Actually, mother is very easy to coax. She just cares too much about elder brother. Because elder brother suffered a lot since he was little, mother feels she let him down and just wants to make up for it as much as possible."


    "But she forgot elder brother is already a grown up now. He is more capable than anyone, and elder brother doesn''t need her to make up to him either. We just need to support him. As long as you treat elder brother well, she''ll feel assured. She''ll be too busy coaxing you to be angry at you!"


    After hearing her words, Rong Dai felt some relief. It seemed easier to handle things this way.


    But she couldn''t help being curious about Huo Shao Ting''s matters. That man was excellent and rational enough. For such a big incident, most husbands would have all sorts of usations upon encountering this kind of thing.


    Yet he didn''t. Instead, he did his utmost to handle the matter properly, although she was very clear he would require her to give him a satisfactory personal exnation afterwards.


    "Mei Shu, can you tell me about your elder brother? I want...to understand him."

 Chapter 58: She Is Not Yung Dai

    <h4>Chapter 58</h4>


    When she heard Huo Meishu say this, Huo Meishu immediately became interested. She pulled her chair closer and adjusted her sitting posture, smiling as she said, "That''s more like it."


    Rong Dai gave a faint smile but didn''t say anything. If this hadn''t happened, she definitely wouldn''t have asked such a question.


    But this incident had given her a huge shock. She couldn''t imagine what would have happened if not for Huo Shaoting''s help. This time, she really might have perished along with Zuo Ran.


    What meaning was there in her rebirth then?


    Even ants cling to life. Of course she didn''t want to die either.


    "Let me tell you about my big brother. His wisdom goes without saying. He handles things swiftly and decisively, and is very capable. He always has that stern look on his face, with his heartpletely immersed in his work."


    As Huo Meishu spoke, Rong Dai noticed her eyes brimming with distress.


    "But I know he''s very lonely. He uses all his strength to protect those close to him. Our dad died in a car ident when we were very little. My mom was just a woman who knew how to be a good wife and mother, and didn''t understand anything about the business world."


    "The Huo enterprise has been passed down since my grandfather''s generation. The Huo family has an unwritten rule that the eldest son inherits, but my dad passed away early, and my mom couldn''t lead thepany. My grandma only had my dad, while my second uncle''s side had many descendants who strongly opposed this unwritten rule passed down by the elders."


    "So in the two years after my dad died, our family lived very poorly. My second uncle''s family showed us no mercy at all. If it hadn''t been for grandma stepping in to take over, we might have had to rely on others just to survive."


    Huo Meishu''s eyes turned red as she spoke, flickers of anger in them.


    Although Rong Dai couldn''t empathize, she understood very clearly how fierce the struggles were between rtives in a n.


    Especially when the pir of support was lost, and they could only be bullied, such was the way of the world.


    "But grandma was getting older, and she couldn''t keep running thepany forever. So this burden fell onto my big brother''s shoulders."


    Huo Meishu''s voice was muffled, as if something was stuck in her throat.


    She looked up at Rong Dai, her eyes full of pleading. "Do you know? My brother was only eight years old then. I remember he used to be very mischievous, but after he went with grandma to thepany and came back, I never saw himugh again."


    "When other eight year olds are being spoiled in their parents'' arms, ying with all kinds of toys, my big brother was immersed in the adult world of scheming and vicious, dirty tricks."


    "Big brother used to y with me before, but after that, whenever I saw him, he''d be following grandma, dressed in a little suit even at eight years old, his face as cold and emotionless as a machine."


    As Rong Dai listened, her heart couldn''t help but ache.


    She found it hard to imagine an eight year old child having to face the adult world. How much willpower must that have required?


    "Do you know, whenever I went with second brother and mom to amusement parks, the yearning yet restrained look in big brother''s eyes - it really broke my heart."


    Huo Meishu couldn''t help bowing her head and crying. Others only saw the glorious splendor of the wealthy Huo family, but no one understood their bitterness.


    "My big brother wasn''t always so aloof and stern. He had no choice, because he was the eldest son, the heir of the Huo family. What my big brother really needs is a woman who can make him experience joy, anger, sorrow and happiness, to make me feel he''s a man of flesh and blood. Then I wouldn''t feel so guilty."


    "All these years, second brother and I only had to do what we wanted. Any difficulties weren''t for us to worry about. But this all came at the cost of big brother''s freedom and happiness. There have been many women around big brother who wanted to get into his bed, but he was so cold...sometimes I even wondered if he had issues in that area."


    Rong Dai had been listening intently, her heart twisted as if she''d pulled a muscle. But hearing Huo Meishu''sst words, she couldn''t help breaking out in a cold sweat.


    This really was a sister, to dare suspect her own brother''s virility in this way.


    "So when he was willing to marry you, even though your background wasn''t suited to the Huo family, as long as big brother liked you and agreed, we would support it. We can''t enter big brother''s world, so we thought having you get close to him, giving him some warmth and letting him know he''s not alone..."


    "But after how you were...we all became a bit disheartened. And big brother was increasingly unhappy. I was so scared that big brother wasn''t doing well. Although he doesn''t think we owe him anything, everything we have now came at the cost of his freedom."


    Huo Meishu cried as sheughed, unable to stop herself from grasping Rong Dai''s hand tightly, gazing at her hopefully. "But now everything''s good. Although this incident was dangerous, I saw a vivid side of big brother. He really cares a lot about you. You truly frightened him this time."


    Rong Dai''s heart stirred, and Huo Shaoting''s cold, stern face inexplicably came to mind, making her heart race faster for no reason.


    But she suddenly thought of something, and the joy in her heart instantly sank, reced by a surge of sourness.


    The one Huo Shaoting cared about was Rong Dai, not her!


    If Huo Shaoting was willing to marry the original, it meant he at least had feelings for the original.


    But herself...thinking this, her heart inexplicably twisted into a knot, the sour swelling pain like ants gnawing at the tip of her heart, making it slightly hard to breathe.


    As expected, this was heaven''s punishment for her.


    In her past life, she had wronged so many of her nsmen. Even reborn, what right did she have to live a cherished life?


    Thinking this, her gaze inevitably darkened.


    She was herself. She would never be the original Rong Dai that Huo Shaoting cared about. The one Huo Shaoting cared for was that Rong Dai, not her.


    This realization struck her heart heavily!


    The joy and delight that had just sprouted in her heart, even the fantasy of the beautiful future the two could have, swiftly turned to ash in her heart.


    She was herself. She had her own dignity and pride. She would never be anyone''s substitute.


    Even without the right to be loved, she would live out this life well on her own, repay the karmic debt of her past life properly, and do right by her nsmen in their graves.

 Chapter 59: But a Fool

    <h4>Chapter 59</h4>


    One yearter, she would still divorce Huo Shao Ting. She was not the original owner and could not ept using this skin to steal emotions that did not originally belong to her.


    She was once the empress of a nation, with her own dignity and arrogance. She would never allow herself to do such a despicable thing.


    The light in her eyes gathered bit by bit, and also became more tenacious.


    She would properly thank Huo Shao Ting for everything he had done for her. This year, she would do her best to be a good wife to him and a good daughter-inw to the Huo family.


    But she had to guard her own heart. She could not reveal her identity. Huo Shao Ting was in love with the original owner, it had nothing to do with her.


    Rong Dai kept persuading herself inwardly. The sour swelling pain made her heart tremble continuously.


    She had never imagined that not long after her rebirth, she would develop almost uncontroble emotions towards a man.


    She was truly fated toe and ept the punishment of the heavens. She was given the same appearance and name but a different soul.


    She took a deep breath inwardly to calm the messy thoughts in her mind. Holding Huo Mei Shu''s hand, she looked at her with determination in her eyes and said gently, "Mei Shu, don''t worry. I will treat Shao Ting well. You can rest assured."


    Huo Mei Shu could see the sincerity in her eyes. She smiled immediately, "From now on, Huo Mei Shu only recognizes you as my sister-inw!"


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile lightly. There was a trace of helplessness in the depths of her eyes.


    Not only did she have to be a good wife to Huo Shao Ting and daughter-inw to the Huo family, but she should also find a wife for Huo Shao Ting who could treat him extremely well.


    This would also be her repayment foring to this world.


    Having made up her mind, her state of mind returned to the calmness when she first arrived in this world.


    The sisters-inw talked for a long time until Huo Mei Shu''s phone kept beeping. Only then did they stop the topic.


    Huo Mei Shu checked her phone. Seeing the news on it, her face became darker and the fire in her eyes made her look murderous!


    "What happened?" Rong Dai had slept for two days. Now she was also awake and her phone had long been confiscated and broken by Zuo Ran, so she couldn''t see the news of the past two days.


    "Nothing. My brother will take care of this. Don''t worry about it. What you need to focus on now is recuperating well. Don''t forget that you have epted a drama script. If you don''t act in it, Lu Ye will probably go mad and jump off a building."


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head. This incident was so thrilling, and that Zuo Ran was so twisted. If she let her sister-inw see these messy things again, wouldn''t it make her feel even worse?


    But Rong Dai shook her head and reached out to her, "It''s okay. I''ll just take a look. I also want to know what people are saying."


    This information age was really advanced. You could know everything under the sun without even leaving your home. Most importantly, she could also learn a lot through this little gadget.


    This way, she wouldn''t expose her secret, and she really enjoyed watching too.


    "Although the truth is already out, you should know that there is nothing more convincing than hearing it from your own mouth. Because of my audition before, it affected the reputation of the Huo family. I can no longer evade this matter. I can''t keep relying on Shao Ting for everything, he is also very tired."


    Rong Dai gently exined.


    Firstly, she was really afraid that she would rely too much on Huo Shao Ting and almost fail to guard her heart like this time.


    Secondly, she had to learn to ept everything in this world, good or bad. She had to learn to amodate it all.


    "Well... okay, but don''t get angry after reading it, sister-inw."


    Seeing her so determined and serious, Huo Mei Shu hesitated for a while before handing her phone to her.


    Rong Dai took the phone and browsed the news. As expected, the incident between her and Zuo Ran was the most explosive hot search, firmly ranking first and likely to continue for a while.


    She looked at the vicious words on it. Some even told her to die, as if she had dug up their ancestral graves.


    But she was not angry at all, on the contrary, her face was very calm.


    She had been an empress for thirty years. The sharp edges in her heart had long been smoothed out.


    If she was still the seventeen or eighteen-year-old girl justing of age back then, she would have been furious at such words long ago.


    But she wouldn''t now. She understood too well the fear of public opinion.


    But she also knew very clearly that only by seeing reality clearly and having inner strength could even the most vicious words not hurt her one bit.


    Having lived in the harem for thirty years, she understood human nature all too well.


    Those who couldn''t stand seeing you do well were mostly dissatisfied with life.


    It must be jealousy, or just to vent their frustrations. They were just foolish people who followed public opinion blindly, unable to distinguish right from wrong.


    Since they couldn''t tell fact from fiction and just followed the crowd, their only value was probably in finding some self-worth this way. Why should she care about such petty people? Wouldn''t that be lowering herself?


    She knew very clearly what she was doing.


    "These people are really interesting. They don''t know me at all or what I have experienced, yet they are so easily misled and cannot tell right from wrong. It really makes me...sympathize with them."


    After Rong Dai finished reading, a faint smile appeared on her still swollen face. Her words were full of pity.


    Huo Mei Shu was stunned, "Sister-inw, you''re not angry?"


    Rong Dai raised her eyebrows, "Why should I be angry? I''m not familiar with them at all. The important thing is that you all know the truth and believe in this fact. You are the closest people to me. As long as you believe me, I''m invincible."


    "These people... are just pitiful creatures with heads but no brains. Why should I get angry over their irresponsible words? If I let them make me ill, who would pay for my medical expenses? Wouldn''t it make them even happier if I lived worse? I''m not that stupid."


    Huo Mei Shu was dumbfounded. Looking at Rong Dai''s indifference, it was as if she had gotten to know her all over again.


    "Hmm... very well said, excellent."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded after a few seconds, then typed a long string of words on the phone screen, directly copying everything Rong Dai had just said.


    Leaning on the hospital bed, Rong Dai''s gaze went through the window. She saw the dazzling neon lights of the world outside, such beautiful neon lights that she had never seen before.


    The calm state of mind allowed her thoughts to be broader and analyze this matter more rationally.


    "Mei Shu, can you do me a favor?"


    "What is it? Just tell me, sister-inw." Huo Mei Shu was still immersed in battling on Weibo.


    "I... want a cell phone."


    Rong Dai was very embarrassed. She already owed a huge debt, and now she didn''t even have a cell phone.


    These penniless days were really upsetting.


    "No problem. I''ll bring one over for you tomorrow. This bitch... I won''t believe I can''t shut your mouth!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded and looked at thements on Weibo. Her eyes immediately turned fierce as her fingers flew over the keyboard.


    Rong Dai watched with some amusement but didn''t stop her. She had attained this state of mind only through paying a huge price. She couldn''t expect others to achieve the same just because of her personality.


    Looking at her suspended leg, these injuries would take at least two to three months to fully recover. She had to think carefully about what she could do during this time, she couldn''t just lie around gathering dust.

 Chapter 60: You Sleep With Me

    <h4>Chapter 60</h4>


    "Ah ah ah......I''m so angry I could die, this bitch!"


    The hospital room was quiet as Rong Dai was lost in her own thoughts. She was taken aback when she suddenly heard Huo Mei Shu''s angry roar. Turning back to look at her, Rong Dai saw that she was quite furious.


    "May I take a look at what made you so angry?"


    "You''re better off not seeing this. She''s just a bitch! She hates the rich and can''t stand to see you married well!" Huo Mei Shu was nearly exploding with rage.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly and gestured for her to hand over her phone. Huo Mei Shu was sweating with anger as she simply handed her phone to Rong Dai and went to pour herself some water.


    Rong Dai looked at thements on the screen. They were quite malicious indeed, using extremely vulgarnguage to shred her to pieces.


    She let out a soft sigh and started typing on the screen. After thinking for a bit, she sent the other person a line of poetry: "Shut your door to the moon in your yard, and tell plum blossoms to spread on their own."


    "Sister-inw, don''t let her get to you. Let me handle this." After drinking some water, Huo Mei Shu was ready to continue the fight.


    But Rong Dai just shook her head with a faint smile. "It''s fine. I hope she doesn''t die of anger instead. I can''t afford the medical bills."


    "What?" Huo Mei Shu was curious and leaned over to take a look. Her eyes lit up instantly.


    Right after Rong Dai sent that line of poetry, the other side immediately retorted, directly mocking her for pretending to be learned by using ancient poetry.


    "That bitch! When you have no skills, all you can do is spew nonsense everywhere! She probably thinks everyone else is as trashy as her!" Huo Mei Shu raged. "Sister-inw, let me handle this..."


    "No need." Rong Dai shook her head. It had been a long time since she did something so childish.


    She started typing on the screen: Confucius said one cannot speak without learning poetry, nor stand without learning manners. You are but a dwarf watching a show, having never seen the full picture, merely echoing others'' judgment of right and wrong. Since you do not know me, how can you judge me?


    Huo Mei Shu was stunned as she read along. Before the other side could reply, Rong Dai continued typing: It pains me deeply to see your misfortune. I offer you the "Inscription for the Mouth", hoping you will grow into a phoenix and my heart will beforted. When peach and plum trees are bare, the pheasant still cries deep in the catalpa grove. Go to sleep, I will teach you another day.


    "Sister-inw... Your rebuttal is amazing! That bitch has a foul mouth, thinking everyone else is just like her. Let me handle this..."


    Huo Mei Shu only understood parts of it, but she knew Rong Dai was mocking the other person. She couldn''t help but apud.


    Rong Dai just smiled and handed her the phone. "Simply put, it means disease enters from the mouth, and misfortunees from the mouth."


    She paused and exined to Huo Mei Shu after thinking for a bit: "If she keeps scolding you, just tell her ''like mouse has skin, people need manners''. Without manners, how does one live? Or you can tell her to ''hang herself on the southeast branch''. Doesn''t she want me dead? Tell her to lead by example on how to die properly."


    Rong Dai spoke indifferently. She did not take trash like that seriously at all. She was only humoring Huo Mei Shu by mocking the other person twice to vent her anger.


    "Hahaha... Not bad. I didn''t expect sister-inw to be so talented! ssical Chinese is obscure and difficult to understand. Few people our age are willing to study it diligently. Just picturing that bitch''s confused face, I feel so relieved!"


    Huo Mei Shuughed heartily, looking at Rong Dai with admiration in her eyes.


    Rong Dai just smiled without replying. Apart from poetry, she wouldn''t be able toe up with vulgarities from this world either.


    When Huo Shao Ting walked to the door of the hospital room and heard the cheerful voices inside, a trace of smile shed across his eyes before he pushed the door open.


    "Big brother."


    Seeing hime in, Huo Mei Shu immediately restrained herughter and became guarded.


    "You go back. I''ll stay here. The nurse wille tomorrow."


    His face was still cold as he loosened his tie after putting down the thermal food jar, and said to Huo Mei Shu.


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting return again, Rong Dai''s heart started pounding uncontrobly once more. She took several deep breaths before she managed to calm it down.


    "Big brother, I don''t have anything to do these days either. We don''t need a nurse, do we? Besides, sister-inw and I get along very well. Having a strangere might make her ufortable, right? Isn''t that so, sister-inw?"


    Huo Mei Shu breathed a sigh of relief. Noticing his tired face, she couldn''t help but speak up again.


    Rong Dai also saw the dark circles under his eyes. Her heart ached slightly - "Shao Ting, I''m fine. You should both go back and rest. I can call the doctor if anythinges up."


    "I''ll sleep on the couch. Staying up is bad for a girl. Or can your face afford to be worn out?" Huo Shao Ting ignored her and looked to Huo Mei Shu instead.


    Huo Mei Shu was startled. She touched her cheek, realizing she indeed hadn''t rested well these days due to Rong Dai''s ident.


    Rong Dai knew women cared about looks. Huo Shao Ting had made up his mind, so Huo Mei Shu was helpless against him.


    "Mei Shu, you should go back and rest." Rong Dai said. Only then did Huo Mei Shu leave the hospital room.


    After she left, the room became quiet again, but the atmosphere was somewhat awkward.


    Rong Dai wanted to avoid her own wandering thoughts. As for Huo Shao Ting, he really wanted to chat more with her, but didn''t know how to start.


    "Drink some soup first. The chef just made it."


    Unable to make conversation, he opened the thermal jar and poured out the simmered pigeon soup. He carefully blew on it to cool before handing it to her.


    "Thank you." Rong Dai had just eaten congee and was still a little full, but the pigeon soup was good for her wounds. Not wanting to waste his kind intentions, she slowly drank the soup sip by sip.


    After she finished drinking, Huo Shao Ting cleaned up and went to lie down on the sofa. He was quite exhausted these past two days.


    Looking at his tall figure curled up on the sofa, Rong Dai thought she was no stranger to intimacy, and in her current state, she also believed in Huo Shao Ting''s moral character.


    This was a new world, not ancient times. Things weren''t as conservative here. Moreover, they were still legally married, so sharing a bed wasn''t too improper.


    "Shao Ting... Come sleep on the bed, the sofa isn''t good for your back." She spoke softly. Although knowing she shouldn''t have stray thoughts, her cheeks still couldn''t help turning red.


    Huo Shao Ting had just lied down when he heard her words. Seeing her make space on the bed, his heart softened instantly.


    Seeing him remain motionless for a long time, Rong Dai thought that with his matters andpany to handle, she shouldn''t make a fuss over such things after narrowly escaping danger this time.


    This was a new world, not ancient times. Things weren''t that prudish here, and they were still legally married. Sleeping together wouldn''t be too inappropriate.


    "I''m...scared. Can you stay with me?"


    After thinking for a bit, she simply changed her phrasing. But as soon as the words left her mouth, she regretted them and wanted to p herself.


    Why did she have to say it so...melodramatically?


    "Alright." Huo Shao Ting replied after a few seconds. He got up and walked over to her. Seeing him approach, Rong Dai''s heart raced wildly, but she had already said those words and it was toote to take them back.

 Chapter 61: She鈥檚 a Bastard.

    <h4>Chapter 61</h4>


    Feeling the bed sink slightly beside her, her nose catching the familiar brisk scent, as well as the man''s masculinity, Rong Dai''s heart inexplicably raced, her entire body taut and tense, every cell in her body became extremely sensitive.


    She justy there quietly, her eyes nervously fixed on the snow white ceiling, not knowing what she was thinking in her mind.


    Huo Shao Tingy beside her, his heartbeat also uncontrobly speeding up as he looked at the flush on her cheeks. He couldn''t help the smile that shed through his eyes as he gently rolled over to lie on his side, leaving space for her, afraid of touching her wounds.


    Perhaps it was because he had not slept for days while dealing with these matters, and he was really tired too. And with someone he trusted lying beside him, he soon fell asleep.


    When Rong Dai heard the steady breathing next to her ear, she couldn''t help but turn her head to look over.


    Her gaze fell inch by inch on his face, looking at him from such a close distance, she could see every pore on his face very clearly.


    Her heart was still beating very fast, the inexplicable excitement and softness made her feel as if she was walking on clouds.


    But she also very clearly maintained her rationality. In order not to disturb her mind, she simply closed her eyes, reciting scriptures in her heart. Probably because of the severity of her injuries this time, and her weary spirit, she soon fell asleep too.


    ...


    "Brother, do we really have to do this? Can''t we not beg her? I...don''t want to beg her."


    At the first light of dawn, a luxurious Rolls-Royce was parked at the hospital entrance.


    Inside the car, Wen Shi Lan wept and pleaded with Wen Runlin, her entire spiritpletelyckingpared to before.


    In addition to Wen Runlin, Han Shiqing was also in the car.


    Han Shiqing coldly watched the ceaselessly sobbing Wen Shi Lan, deliberately ncing at his watch: "Miss Wen, if you can''t obtain Mrs. Huo''s forgiveness, you won''t win thiswsuit. Please cherish this chance Mrs. Wen has obtained to plead for you, don''t waste each other''s time."


    He had previously promised not to grant Wen Shi Lan bail, but the Wen family''s rtionship with the Huo family ran deep, and the Wen family''s old madam immediately went to plead with Mrs. Huo Lunzheng.


    Wen Shi Lan''s face was ugly, and she was very annoyed, but she didn''t dare act out.


    Wen Runlin''s expression was also extremely gloomy. In just these few short days, the Wen family had suffered a heavy blow.


    If the Wen family still wanted to retain their standing in Shengjing, Wen Shi Lan had to get on her knees this time, even if she had to kowtow!


    He was all too aware of Huo Shao Ting''s capabilities, he would definitely do what he said he would.


    He had thought Huo Shao Ting held special feelings for Shi Lan, so he would at least show some favor. But he didn''t expect him to be so resolute.


    That day at the police station, he had said those things in order to protect Wen Shi Lan. As long as he wasn''t present and didn''t plead for mercy, perhaps Huo Shao Ting would still showpassion and spare the Wen family.


    But he had overestimated Shi Lan''s standing in Huo Shao Ting''s heart, and also overestimated the rtionship between the Wen and Huo families.


    "If you''d known earlier, why did you do it in the first ce? Don''t you know Huo Shao Ting''s character after all this time? It was trouble you stirred up, I''ve already done my best to remedy it. Today, even if you have to kneel, you still have to earnestly apologize, otherwise not only will the Wen family be finished, you''ll be jailed too."


    Wen Runlin''s voice was icy cold. Although he resented Huo Shao Ting for not giving them face, he also knew this matter was the result of them spoiling Wen Shi Lan too much.


    If they hadn''t indulged her so much from the start, things wouldn''t have be like this today.


    Wen Shi Lan was instantly struck deadened, she would rather humiliate herself by kneeling to Rong Dai than be jailed.


    If she went to jail, how could she still have any standing left in Shengjing''s aristocratic circles in the future?


    "I''ll go." She assented with tears, her face ashen white.


    Because it was early morning, there weren''t many people at the hospital. And with Huo Shao Ting''s security arrangements, along with all thewyer letters sent out, which media outlet would still dare to stick their nose in this?


    The three of them quickly arrived at the door of Rong Dai''s ward. Standing at the door, Wen Shi Lan couldn''t move her feet no matter what, the unwillingness, anger and despair in her heart swallowing her up.


    "Miss Wen, do you want to wait until Mr. Huo arrives before apologizing?" Han Shiqing said heavily.


    This time, he had truly been harmed miserably by Wen Shi Lan. With Huo Shao Ting''s capabilities, he would definitely be able to bankrupt him if this matter wasn''t handled well!


    Forced by the situation, Wen Shi Lan couldn''t help but bite her lip. She still raised her hand and pushed open the door to the ward, and the few of them walked in together.


    But when the three saw the scene on the hospital bed, they were all stunned.


    They saw Huo Shao Ting lying on his side on the bed, one hand resting on Rong Dai''s waist. While Rong Dai was slightly curled against his jaw, sleeping soundly. The two of them were extremely intimate.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes snapped open almost instantly, a sharp light shing through his eyes in a sh.


    Rong Dai was also startled awake by his imposing manner. As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw the three extra people in the ward, and caught sight of the familiar Wen Shi Lan.


    "Shao Ting, this..." She hesitated for a moment, feeling very confused. Who woulde visit this early?


    Han Shiqing''s expression changed drastically on the spot. He had thought Huo Shao Ting was at the hotel, he didn''t expect him to be here with Rong Dai!


    Wen Runlin was also caught unawares, and Wen Shi Lan even more so.


    Seeing the scene before her eyes, she almost couldn''t believe everything that had happened these past few days was real!


    Shao Ting really didn''t like her, the things he said were all true!


    "Shao Ting, do you really like her that much? Why? What''s so good about herpared to me?!"


    Her emotions copsed, and the emotions she had repressed these past few days exploded all at once. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she pointed at Rong Dai and loudly questioned them!


    Wen Runlin and Han Shiqing''s heads were both throbbing, this waspletely different from what they had imagined!


    "Enough! Shut your mouth!" Wen Runlin was in despair, he shouldn''t have brought her here to apologize in the first ce!


    This apology was only inviting greater disaster!


    "No! Since I''m going to be jailed, I won''t let her live either! That slut of a mother probably doesn''t even know which bastard spawned her! What right does she have topete with me?!"


    Wen Shi Lan loved but couldn''t obtain it, and had suffered sessive blows. Her emotions erupted all at once, that hideous, crazed appearance was almost a match for Zuo Ran!


    Wen Runlin was in utter despair, wishing he could just beat her to death!


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting''s expressions instantly darkened.


    Although Rong Dai had never met An Feiya, she deeply understood the grace of parents. No matter how An Feiya behaved as an individual, the heart she had for cherishing her daughter was present.


    Even if she wasn''t the original, she could not tolerate this vilification.


    "Miss Wen, watch your words! Everything you''re saying and doing now makes me feel that you''re the cheap spawncking maternal teachings! No matter how my mother was, she would never have taught me to rely on status to suppress others, and vilify them as bastards every time I open my mouth!"


    "You think yourself so noble, but you''re nothing but a trampled peony rotting in the mud. My family background may not match yours, but I know a person of upbringing, conscience, propriety, integrity and sense of shame would never curse others the moment they open their mouth. They would also not stubbornly cling to another person''s husband, and be so shameless as to repeat such vulgar, disgraceful words again and again!"

 Chapter 62: I do not Forgive

    <h4>Chapter 62</h4>


    "Shao Ting, I don''t want to see this person again. Looking at her makes me nauseous, even more disgusting than stepping in dog shit. Disturbing someone''s sleep early in the morning shortens one''s life. I don''t want to offend someone so self-righteous and arrogant like this unreasonable youngdy."


    Rong Dai''s face was gloomy as she spoke extremely fast, but her words were clear and piercing, verballyshing out at Wen Shi Lan.


    She still didn''t know that Wen Shi Lan had joined forces with Zuo Ran to harm her, otherwise her words would have been even more piercing and offensive.


    "Bitch! How dare you scold me! Why don''t you just die?! Zuo Ran is just a useless waste..." Ah!


    Wen Shi Lan was already very distraught. The man she had pined for over so many years treated her so mercilessly because of this woman who was even more worthless than her. Of course she couldn''t stand it!


    She roared and rushed at Rong Dai. Wen Runlin and Han Shiqing were shocked and tried to grab her but failed.


    But Shao Ting had been on guard. He kicked out ruthlessly, knocking the woman over without any mercy.


    Then he got up from the bed and looked down condescendingly at the three people before him, his eyes piercing and cold enough to kill!


    Wen Shi Lan fell in a mess in the corner of the ward, clutching her waist and abdomen, her face twisted in pain. She looked up desperately and resentfully at the cold and merciless Shao Ting.


    She couldn''t believe that he would actually hit her!


    Rong Dai frowned. She could tell something was going on from Wen Shi Lan''s words.


    Could it be that this Zuo Ran was released on bail by Wen Shi Lan? Then wouldn''t she be indirectly responsible for harming her?


    Thinking of the nightmares she had endured under Zuo Ran, she felt Wen Shi Lan was hundreds of times more sinister and hateful than Zuo Ran!


    "Shao Ting, please make her leave! She has harmed me over and over, destroying our rtionship. And this time she framed me, I almost died."


    When she said she almost died, the murderous look in Shao Ting''s eyes became even more pronounced. Wen Runlin saw it clearly, and his back kept breaking out in cold sweat.


    This time it was really going to be the death of them! He shouldn''t have let Wen Shi Lane to apologize!


    What apology was this? It would have been better to just let thew take its course!


    Wen Runlin deeply regretted it.


    Rong Dai was no fool either. Although she didn''t understand thews here, she knew that if the perpetrator obtained forgiveness from the victim, the charges would naturally be reduced ordingly.


    They had chosen this time toe and apologize, to ask for her forgiveness.


    Forgiveness?


    She would never forgive them.


    She had barely escaped with her life under Zuo Ran. She didn''t even dare imagine what would have happened if she hadn''t taken decisive action at that time. She might have already be a wandering ghost.


    They wanted to take her life, and then ask her to forgive them?


    Not even the Bodhisattva Guanyin would be so merciful!


    "If you''vee to ask for my forgiveness, then I''ll make it clear now that this is impossible!"


    "Miss Wen, do you know that I almost died at Zuo Ran''s hands? Are you going to say that I''m still alive and well? That was just my good fortune, my time had not yete!"


    "And you helping her plead for leniency makes you an aplice! Just as unforgivable! She nned murder, she wanted my life. If I did the same to her, would you let me off? You would have wanted a life for a life. I don''t understand thew, but premeditated murder deserves death."


    Rong Dai spoke heavily, her voice extremely cold.


    Shao Ting noticed her anger. Hearing her words, his heart ached badly.


    He didn''t feel Rong Dai was being heartless. Murderers should pay with their lives, this was an eternal truth.


    "Security." He called out in his deep voice. Soon seven or eight muscr guards came in.


    Shao Ting looked at Wen Runlin with a cold and merciless gaze, "If the Wen family interferes again in this matter, they can disappear from Shengjing. Don''t challenge my bottom line."


    Wen Runlin''s face was deathly pale. Beads of sweat asrge as beans rolled from his forehead into his eyes, but he didn''t dare blink.


    He knew Shao Ting was serious.


    Shao Ting then looked at Han Shiqing, a cold smile appearing on his cold, stern face, "Topw firm, yet just mediocre. I pay you to handlewsuits for me, but instead of helping my counsel resolve things, you take care of the opponent. Well done. From now on, you will face imprisonment. Go to jail together with her, share your fate."


    As he spoke, he took out his phone with one hand and swiftly sent out several messages.


    Han Shiqing''s legs went soft in fright, his head buzzing. He knelt down at once, well aware of all the shady dealings he had done.


    "Mr. Huo! I really couldn''t do anything about this matter. It was Madam Huo who agreed to it..."


    "Did I hire you, or did she?" Shao Ting asked coldly.


    Han Shiqing was struck speechless. His phone in his briefcase kept ringing. He took it out flusteredly and looked at the messages on it, his face ashen.


    "Take him out. If they dare barge in again, you''re all fired." Shao Ting said coldly.


    The security guards quickly took him away. The noisy hospital room finally quieted down.


    With the racket gone, Rong Dai asked, "Did Wen Shi Lan take part in this matter? Was it she who bailed out Zuo Ran?"


    Shao Ting turned around and poured her a cup of warm water, then cranked up her hospital bed. Looking at her apologetically he said, "This was all because of me, I didn''t handle the Wen Shi Lan matter well from the start."


    "What happened in Zuo Ran''s neighborhood allowed Wen Shi Lan to find out. She hired Han Shiqing and, taking advantage of Lu Hong''s absence, got Zuo Ran released on bail and arranged all this. I should have handled this matter properly, I...I''m very sorry. Something like this will never happen again."


    Looking at his sincere, self-reproaching eyes, Rong Dai felt warmth in her heart. She wasn''t unreasonable.


    "You can''t me yourself for this. Wen Shi Lan is too stubborn herself." She said, lowering her eyes to look at the water in the cup. She thought for a moment then asked, "If it''s to give face to the Wen family, I can agree to forgive her."


    Although she was very reluctant, she was even more unwilling to make things difficult for Shao Ting. She could consider this repaying him.


    "I''m not in any quandary. From the start, I never intended to let her off easily. I have no intention of showing any mercy to the Wen family or to her."


    As soon as her wordsnded, Shao Ting''s expression became serious. He enunciated each word very clearly.


    Warmth surged in Rong Dai''s heart. Those sprouting ripples threatening to bloom, she desperately suppressed them.


    "Mm."


    "What would you like to eat?" Seeing her agree, Shao Ting''s expression eased. But just as he spoke, his phone rang. It was Lu Zheng calling.


    "Answer it first. I''m not very hungry anyway." Seeing the caller ID, Rong Dai withdrew her gaze.


    But Shao Ting didn''t leave. He pulled over a chair to sit down and took the call on speakerphone.


    Lu Zheng''s anxious voice immediately came through, "Shao Ting, how could you hit Shi Lan? She went overboard, but I didn''t expect..."


    "She tried to kill my wife. Is that not overboard? I''ve already shown the Wen family maximum benevolence by not crippling her. Mom, I hope you''re clear where you stand. Rong Dai is your daughter-inw, not Wen Shi Lan. If you like her, I can arrange a ce for you two to live together."


    Not letting Lu Zheng finish speaking, Shao Ting rebutted her extremely coldly.

 Chapter 63: A Surname

    <h4>Chapter 63</h4>


    Rong Dai clicked her tongue, this man actually talked to his mother-inw like this? If it had been her talking to her mother-inw like this, she would surely be used of being unfilial.


    "What nonsense are you talking about? When have I ever said Wen Shi Lan is good? If I thought she was good, how could I have schemed against her like thatst time?" Lu Zheng''s angry voice immediately came through the phone.


    "I''m just worried about the Wen family, after all there is still some past affection there..."


    "Past affection? If they still knew about past affection, they should have taught Wen Shi Lan about propriety, righteousness and integrity. I''m already married and have a family. They still allowed Wen Shi Lan to pester me, and now she almost killed my wife. And you tell me about past affection?"


    Huo Shao Ting sharply retorted, leaving Lu Zheng speechless.


    "No matter how much past affection, haven''t I helped the Wen family enough over these years? The Huo family has long owed them nothing. Don''t bring up this kind of thing again in the future. They should be d that Rong Dai is fine this time, otherwise I would have buried the entire Wen family with her."


    Lu Zheng was terrified when she heard this. She was indeed angry about Rong Dai''s incident this time, but she cared more about her son''s feelings.


    Her son had been desireless and apathetic for so many years. Now that Rong Dai''s existence could make hime alive again, she had nothing more to ask for.


    "Since this is the case, I won''t say much more about this matter. I have already arranged for caregivers to go over. She is injured now and must have been terribly frightened this time. Take this opportunity to cultivate your feelings, adversity reveals true feelings."


    Lu Zheng sighed, children really do grow apart from their mother.


    "Mm, don''t tell grandma about this for now. I''ll exin after it''s dealt with."


    Huo Shao Ting responded, his expression and tone softening.


    "Need you tell me that? There must be someone home here. Ask the doctor how much longer she needs to recuperate there? The medical conditions there can''t be as good as Shenjing after all. I''ve already contacted the best orthopedic doctor and booked a ward. It''s still best toe back soon."


    Lu Zheng''s words were full of concern. Rong Dai''s incident had scared her half to death too. Who knew something so outrageous could happen?


    "Let''s see for now. Gotta go." Huo Shao Ting said lightly and hung up the phone.


    Rong Dai was dumbfounded listening to the side. This mother and son... she sighed lightly in her heart. As a woman, she could hear the concern in mother-inw''s voice for Huo Shao Ting. Mother-inw was good to her for his sake.


    It was just that Huo Shao Ting was perhaps numbed by dealing with things coldly in the business world for so many years, and handled things habitually with that mentality. No wonder Huo Mei Shu and the others felt helpless.


    But she couldn''t say anything now, let alone criticize Huo Shao Ting. If handled poorly, she would be the one suffering.


    "Sister-inw, I heard that wench surnamed Wen came by. She didn''t bother you, did she?"


    Huo Mei Shu rushed in carrying breakfast, with fine sweat on her forehead.


    Rong Dai sighed lightly looking at her: "She annoyed me to no end, so I gave her a good scolding."


    After their chatst night, she found that she really liked little sister-inw''s personality, straightforward and rxing to get along with.


    "Well scolded! She''s just shameless! To use sister-inw''s words fromst night, she''s a rat with skin,cks decorum and dies without regret. She should hang herself on the southeast branch. To be so vicious!"


    Huo Mei Shu chattered on, opening breakfast for them both, and taking out a new phone from her bag to hand to her: "Just came out, new series. This brand has the best reputation among domestic phones. I use it too, just different color than sister-inw''s."


    "Thanks." Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded. Although she really wanted to say she''d pay back the money, it seemed a bit... embarrassing to keep saying that since she was broke at the moment.


    Seeing her holding the new phone, a deep look shed in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes. Then he sent several messages to Assistant Zhang.


    After breakfast, he went back to the hotel to wash up and deal withpany matters.


    For safety, he had two bodyguards standing guard outside the ward.


    "Sister-inw, do you know? Your retort to that bitchst night went viral online! Now the police have provided a series of evidence. Prison is inevitable for Wen Shi Lan and Zuo Ran. You can rest assured."


    As soon as Huo Shao Ting left, Huo Mei Shu livened up and showed her top trending headlines from this morning on her phone.


    Thinking of Zuo Ran, Rong Dai recalled tricking words out of her before. Her eyes turned sharp. She hurriedly turned on her new phone and saw Huo Mei Shu had thoughtfully saved everyone in the Huo family''s numbers for her.


    "What''s wrong, sister-inw?"


    "Before, to stall Zuo Ran and trick her words, because my mother died very suspiciously. Officially it was a car ident but things weren''t that simple. Zuo Ran admitted in front of me that she intentionally designed to harm my mother, because my mother wanted to break free of her control. This matter can''t be left as is."


    "What? She''s truly malicious! Wait, let me call Lu Hong right away."


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes widened. She immediately called Lu Hong and briefly exined.


    After hanging up, Huo Mei Shu looked at Rong Dai and said: "Big brother actually had suspicions about this before. When you were trapped in Zuo Ran''s housest time, big brother already had people investigate and look into this."


    Rong Dai was surprised, touched and conflicted in her heart.


    Huo Shao Ting''s care for her was meticulous.


    She really feared she wouldn''t be able to control herself, but she couldn''t give up her principles and bottom line.


    The mixed emotions made her very ufortable.


    After staying in the hospital for three more days, Rong Dai''s injuries got the doctor''s approval to arrange to go back to Shenjing.


    Rong Dai knew she still had a tough battle waiting for her back in Shenjing. The impact on her was huge. Even with official evidence, it still wouldn''t plug those wagging tongues.


    But she was fearless, having already thought through countermeasures in her mind long ago.


    She also nned what else to do during her recuperation. In her past life, although she was a general''s daughter, her mother was from a prestigious family and had taught her well.


    Her leg couldn''t move but her hands still could.


    She had promised grandmother a handkerchief embroidery before. Over the past few days she had also asked Huo Mei Shu and looked online.


    The new world still valued ancient embroidery greatly. And she was confident in her skills. This would be a way for her to make money.


    So she chose fabrics and silk threads and had Huo Mei Shu buy them back. She personally designed the patterns and started embroidery work, making her recuperation less dull.

 Chapter 64: How to Get Rich

    <h4>Chapter 64</h4>


    "Sister-inw, I didn''t expect that you would have such a skill. You can actually embroider. There are not many people who know this technique nowadays. Although I don''t understand it myself, your embroidery work... is really exquisite," said Huo Mei Shu.


    Ever since Rong Dai went through this hardship and adjusted her attitude after realizing she was not the original owner of this body, having lived in the imperial harem for so many years, she was well-versed in the ways of the world.


    Huo Mei Shu also liked talking to her more and more, and would sneak into her room whenever she had nothing to do.


    Rong Dai''s injured foot still could not touch the ground, as the bone was also damaged when Zuo Ran shed her. Both of them also fell from quite a high ce, which exacerbated the injury.


    Looking at the work she had done over the past few days, Rong Dai used a Hangzhou silk handkerchief as the base material, embroidering a pattern of pine trees on a mountain, implying health and longevity.


    "I''m quite interested in these things, although I was controlled by Zuo Ran, my mother still tried her best to let me learn whatever I wanted," she lied glibly. She had no choice, given the current circumstances.


    If she suddenly gained a skill out of nowhere, it would seem too bizarre.


    "Are you only making this for Grandma? I learned ssical music, so I''m also interested in these things from our ancestors. It''s just that any handcraft with some heritage value is so expensive it scares me to death," said Huo Mei Shu, sticking out her tongue as she looked at the handkerchief in her hand longingly.


    "I didn''t know what you would like either. For ady, I embroidered a pattern of secluded orchids for you. This one is for Mother - peonies symbolizing wealth and nobility."


    Seeing how her eyes lit up, Rong Dai breathed a small sigh of relief. She took out two embroidered handkerchiefs from the box and handed them to her.


    Huo Mei Shu stroked the embroidery, full of admiration. "Sister-inw, howe you never showed this skill before? If you put these up for sale, they would definitely sell like crazy! Do you know, nowadays those wealthy madams of prominent families like handmade items more and more, especially things passed down from our ancestors."


    Of course Rong Dai knew about this. She had looked online earlier to research it. A purely hand-embroidered garment could be worth thousands or even tens of thousands, mainly depending on the artisan''s skills.


    She was very confident in her embroidery skills. Back when she voluntarily moved into the cold pce, the Emperor basically did not care whether she lived or died.


    She could only take on odd jobs, making embroidered items to sell. In those ten years, the pieces she produced numbered at least a thousand, if not more.


    She worked tirelessly night and day. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect, and her mother was originally an expert at embroidery. Having learned the true legacy, Rong Dai''s skills naturally became more and more exquisite.


    Although the silk threads here were very good, and the materials were also decent, some of the patterns required careful selection of fabrics and top-notch embroidery work.


    Since she could not personally go and select each item, she could only practice for now to quickly get back into rhythm.


    "What do you think if I take online orders? I can do phoenix cors, bridal wear, and more. I originally studied design, so I''m also very interested in this. I''m recuperating at home now anyway, and was bored with nothing to do," said Rong Dai.


    She reallycked money!


    Although she had epted this drama role, filming had not started yet. She had no money in her pocket at all.


    Seeing that her debts kept growing, Rong Dai felt increasingly anxious, like an ant scurrying on a hot pan.


    "Of course you can, although I heard embroiderers tend to hurt their eyes. It''s fine as a hobby, but if you want to earn money from it, my big brother makes enough to support you for generations," Huo Mei Shu said, still delighted with the handkerchief.


    Rong Dai smiled wryly. Although Huo Shao Ting earned a lot, that was not her money.


    Her mother had said a woman should always have some private savings.


    Although she had developed feelings for Huo Shao Ting, she was still trying her best to restrain herself, as she would still divorce him after a year.


    So she must learn to be self-reliant this year. Her young sister-inw was quite naive and did not overthink things, so it was easy to sound her out on many matters.


    "Don''t worry, I definitely won''t ruin my eyes."


    Otherwise, they would have gone blind long ago during those ten years in the cold pce. She had secret techniques to maintain her vision and embroidery skills at such a level.


    "Alright then, I''ll help you register an ount and post some photos. But don''t get your hopes up too much, sister-inw. There aren''t many people who can appreciate quality nowadays, and most embroidery is done by machines - too rigid. Handmade pieces are really rare, and many techniques have been lost," said Huo Mei Shu, seeing her insistence.


    She took Rong Dai''s phone and helped her register an online ount, then posted the three finished handkerchiefs.


    "It''s fine, just to pass the time when I''m bored," said Rong Dai lightly, while feeling as anxious as an ant in her heart.


    "Then I''ll keep this handkerchief - thanks, sister-inw!" Huo Mei Shu was overjoyed.


    Rong Dai nodded and also handed her the one she embroidered for Mother-inw: "Please help bring this one to Mother too. She''s still upset, so I''ll have to trouble you to coax her more."


    "No problem," said Huo Mei Shu with a wink, humming a tune as she skipped out.


    Rong Dai looked at her leg still in a ster cast and sighed softly. With this leg injury, everything was difficult.


    It had already been a week since returning to Shengjing. The online public opinion had been suppressed.


    Firstly, because Huo Shao Ting acted ruthlessly, suing all the random rumormongers.


    Secondly, because the official interrogation video was released, along with evidence of Zuo Ran harming many innocent young girls.


    In addition, since Zuo Ran had offended the Huo n this time, many who had not dared speak up previously for fear of Zuo Ran''s retaliation all came forth with remaining evidence, suddenly shifting the tide of public opinion. Zuo Ran became a pariah online.


    Rong Dai also registered and verified a Weibo ount herself, briefly recounting the events, and with Huo Mei Shu''s help, posted a video as well.


    At first some people still tried to nder her, but they were soon cursed out by otherizens, with some even having their ounts exposed.


    Rong Dai had not expected this perilous affair to be smoothed over so quickly either, lightening her mood as well.


    She knew Huo Shao Ting had done a lot behind the scenes to suppress this matter for her sake, so she had to do her part too.


    After some thought, she posted a picture of an embroidered handkerchief design draft, along with the caption: The past cannot be med, but the future can still be chased. Spring''s hundreds of flowers, autumn moon, summer''s cool breeze, winter''s snow - persevere.


    After posting, she turned off her phone screen and hopped on one foot to the desk, taking out a bag of materials belonging to the original owner that Huo Shao Ting had retrieved from Zuo Ran''s residence. She looked through them carefully.


    The original owner had studied design, but took a break from school after the death of Imperial Concubine Ya.


    In her past life, she had studied poetry, music, chess, painting, and connoisseurship from a young age, so naturally had superb discernment. Looking at the original owner''s design drafts, she also developed a strong interest, and gradually a very grand idea emerged in her mind.


    Not all of her skills might be applicable here, but one or two fields she excelled in still held great value in this world.


    Like embroidery, calligraphy, or musical instruments.


    These could all be her cash cows to build her fortune. Rong Dai also felt fortunate that in this modern era, their ancestors'' heritage had not beenpletely discarded.


    However, she confirmed there were no historical records whatsoever in this world about the Kingdom of Shangyuan, where she came from. The poems and lyrics she was familiar with could be traced back to around the Qing Dynasty here, but Shangyuan was established in the 900s AD. This made her even more reluctant to reveal this secret.

 Chapter 65: You Have to Ask Me First

    <h4>Chapter 65</h4>


    Time shed by, and the cast had been removed from Rong Dai��s foot.


    Worried that the injury would affect her walking posture in the future, Huo Shao Ting had invited the best rehabilitation trainer in Shenjing toe to the Huo residence to help her recuperate.


    Her injury was healing well. Although she still couldn''t exercise vigorously every day, it didn''t affect her walking, which made Rong Dai feel much more at ease.


    Although the recent incident had been suppressed, it had also pushed Rong Dai into the spotlight, and Huo Corporation had received considerable impact. In the half month since, Huo Shao Ting had onlye back twice.


    Rong Dai felt a little disappointed, but she knew such thoughts were dangerous, and kept trying to restrain herself.


    Taking advantage of the incident, Huo ShaoJie had dealt with the crazy online detractors from the audition. Although there were still people online questioning Rong Dai, they didn''t dare to speak too harshly anymore. Things had calmed down.


    "Sister-inw, this is the script. You''ve never acted before, so you must practice the lines well. Take advantage of your recovery time to read the script more and get a feel for the character. If you have any questions, you can ask me. Once we find a good assistant, I''ll arrange it for you."


    Huo ShaoJie brought her a whole box of scripts. He looked tired; it was clear that he had been busy with preparations for the new drama.


    Rong Dai nodded. She had deliberately found and read the original novel for this script, so grasping the character would be easy for her, since the circumstances of the original character were simr to her previous life.


    "ShaoJie, are you nning to use a green screen for this drama?"


    In addition to thinking about ways to earn money for herself these past few days, she also had many ideas about this drama. She had looked online and asked Huo MeiShu many simr questions.


    "It''s basically all green screen now. On-location filming costs too much," Huo ShaoJie nodded.


    But Rong Dai couldn''t help frowning. She looked at Huo ShaoJie earnestly, "If funds arecking, it''s better to dy production than cut corners. Since you want to make this drama wholeheartedly, you can''t just follow the trend. The audience''s eyes are always sharp. Even if you can fool them once, dissatisfaction will linger."


    "I''ve seen the samples for the costumes and props you��ve already decided on. They seem meticulous on the surface, but are actually too extravagant. I also watched some hugely popr recent dramas, and the most important thing about acting is authenticity, so the audience can resonate with it."


    She was confident in her aesthetic sense, and she had lived in that kind of environment in her previous life. So although Huo ShaoJie and Lu Ye were already very thoughtful, many details were still unsatisfactory.


    Hearing her say this, Huo ShaoJie became interested, but he was troubled because this was a drama without historical records, so there were no costumes that could be used for reference.


    He and Lu Ye had asked many costume and props teams, but nothing produced was very satisfactory.


    "That''s easy to fix. I studied design myself, and had nothing to do these past few days, so I sketched out some drawings. Why don''t you take a look? These are just some of my ideas. You still need to discuss the specifics yourselves."


    As she spoke, she pulled out a thick stack of manuscripts from her desk. The drawings on them were lifelike, with striking costume designs that were very meticulous.


    "Sister-inw, did you really design these?" Huo ShaoJie''s eyes lit up. The timing of these sketches was perfect!


    This drama was one he personally liked a lot, but the difficulty was that it was a historical drama without historical records, so all the historical background was fictional. This required them to expend tremendous effort to create that background.


    Costumes were the most vivid part of that background. He and Lu Ye had agonized over it for a long time.


    "Of course I did. These are just some of my ideas. If you''re willing to listen to me, I can organize some things for you. Since this drama has a fictional history, we can be quite bold with many aspects."


    "Since you''re spending money on it, you should see results, not shoddy workmanship. That would be letting down your profession. If the quality isn''t guaranteed, the audience might not buy it either."


    Huo ShaoJie''s eyes shone as he looked at the sketches. They were so timely!


    "Great! As long as sister-inw is willing to work hard, I''m certainly willing to listen. These costumes areing at just the right time. Lu Ye and I struggled over this for a long time."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. She did have ulterior motives after all.


    The costumes she had sketched were from the Upstream Kingdom. Naturally, drawing things that really existed would have more impact.


    "Then give me two days or so. I''ve read the original work already, so these aren''t big issues. The important thing is some details. I also like researching these ssical things. I hope I can help you."


    "Thank you, sister-inw!" Huo ShaoJie was all smiles. These sketches were so timely!


    "Leaving already?"


    Huo ShaoJie had just turned to leave when he saw Huo Shao Ting standing outside the door, though he didn''t know when he had arrived.


    "Big brother." Huo ShaoJie''s smile immediately faded.


    Huo Shao Ting raised his hand and took the sketches from him. He only nced at them casually, but surprise still showed in his eyes.


    "Your sister-inw studied design. These are her works. In other words, they''re hers. If you want to use them, you need copyright permission, or pay to buy them. You''re getting more and more shameless as a screenwriter, aren''t you?"


    Seeing him take the sketches, Huo ShaoJie''s expression instantly changed. He hurriedly exined, "How could I extort sister-inw? Of course I''ll give her a contract! As long as she''s willing, I''ll buy the copyright!"


    Rong Dai was astonished. She didn''t know her few costume sketches could be worth money.


    "Then use market price. Clear ounts between brothers. If your sister-inw doesn''t want to calcte it, I''ll do it. You think she worked hard on these sketches just to give you a discount?"


    Huo Shao Ting raised his brow, clearly unwilling to return the sketches without seeing a contract first.


    Huo ShaoJie was at a loss for words. He had just been too excited for a moment. And this was family, so he hadn''t thought that far at all.


    He just happened to get caught red-handed.


    "Big brother, let me exin..."


    "Have the contract ready, then you can exin everything well." Huo Shao Ting''s voice was indifferent. He lookedpletely impartial, making Huo ShaoJie want to spit blood.


    "I''ll prepare it right now!" Huo ShaoJie immediately rushed out like the wind.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a long time. When Huo Shao Ting walked up to her, she finally regained her senses. "They''re just a few sketches, really."


    "Do you know how much these sketches would be worth if they could all be made into costumes? He was exploiting you, and you believed him? Copyright is important. These are your things. No matter how they develop in the future, your name will be tied to them."


    Seeing her like this, Huo Shao Ting felt very helpless. He really couldn''t see through this woman sometimes. Sometimes so smart, sometimes bafflingly muddled.


    "Then...would they be worth enough to buy a hundred million jade pendant?" Rong Dai blinked innocently at him.


    Huo Shao Ting: "..."


    He pressed his lips tightly. His gaze was serious as he looked at her and said, "From now on, ask me first about these kinds of things. Huo ShaoJie won''t cheat you, but others might not be so conscientious. When you can trulyprehend the value of your work, I won''t interfere anymore."


    He had to remind his wife not to be muddled when she should be smart. Although this amount of money was nothing to him, it was the fruit of her hard work and deserved reward.

 Chapter 66: The Best is What Makes Her.

    <h4>Chapter 66</h4>


    Although she did not fully understand what he had just said, Rong Dai knew that this man would never deceive her. So she nodded earnestly.


    After Huo Shao Ting finished speaking, the bedroom suddenly became quiet.


    Since the recent incident with Zuo Ran, subtle changes had taken ce in both of their hearts. They had be much more intimate with each other, yet it seemed like there was still an intangible wall between them.


    "Um... have you dealt with everything regarding thepany?" Rong Dai was suffocated by the atmosphere and her heart was racing. She quickly changed the subject and didn''t dare look at him.


    "There''s nothing much going on with thepany. I got off work early and came back to take you to meet someone," said Huo Shao Ting as he put the manuscript back in the drawer. His gaze fell upon the documents she had just taken out on the table.


    "It seems a bit rude for me to meet people like this." Rong Dai nced awkwardly at her own feet, which were hopping up and down like a rabbit''s.


    "Your studies are still important. Do you want to continue with them?" Huo Shao Ting ignored her attempt to change the topic. His wife did not need to worry about being rude when meeting anyone.


    Following his gaze, Rong Dai looked over at the design sketches that had belonged to the original owner of this body. She naturally understood how important it was for a woman to be knowledgeable.


    Embroidery was one of her ways to make a living. She certainly needed to continue the original owner''s unfinished studies.


    She had to integrate into this world and be one of its people, instead of being vignt at every moment about being a soul from ancient times.


    "I only took a temporary leave from school. I still need to continue my studies," she replied to Huo Shao Ting. The original owner was a designer, so she happened to know how to paint. She also needed patterns when doing embroidery, so that was at least tangentially rted to what she had studied.


    She also understood that education was highly valued in this life. Embroidery was one of her sources of ie, so of course she had to continue the original owner''s studies.


    She needed to blend into this world and be one of its people, instead of being on guard at all times about being a soul from ancient times.


    "Good. If you want, I can arrange the best school for you. Although this school is decent, there is too much padding of grades. When I, Huo Shao Ting, do something, it''s either the best or nothing at all."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. The way he looked at her was different from before - in addition to gentleness, there was now trust.


    When she met his gaze, Rong Dai''s heart skipped a beat. The tips of her ears couldn''t help turning red.


    "I understand, but my studies will have to wait until after filming this drama series is done."


    Despite her flustered heart, she didn''t miss the deeper meaning behind Huo Shao Ting''s words.


    In her previous life, wasn''t it the same? Either be the best, or don''t bother.


    Common people all loved beautiful things, and talent was one kind of beauty. She did not believe any man would only love a beautiful appearance without exploring the beauty beneath the skin.


    Attracting someone with physical beauty would eventually lead to losing everything when that beauty faded - this was the principle behind the idiom that attractions fade but affections flee.


    What was obtained through talent was eternal.


    She firmly believed this. In her previous life, she had also been a woman with poetry books and self-pride in her talents, but she had to admit thatpared to Noble Consort Xian, her talents did not even catch the Emperor''s eye.


    After thirty years in the imperial harem, she had gradually lost the naive and carefree girl she once was. Every day when she woke up, the only thing on her mind was managing the massive inner pce. Where was there even time to indulge in poetry and books?


    In her previous life she had been too silly and foolish, wasting so much time on trivial matters. Even after all she did for the Emperor, he still ruthlessly executed her n members.


    Seeing that she had her own ns, Huo Shao Ting nodded approvingly.


    "I will have someone take care of this matter," he said. He could give her many things, but there were also many things he could not give her.


    He had witnessed the turmoil in the Huo family with his own eyes. Although he was confident he could ensure she would have food and shelter for life, he did not think that was the best he could give Rong Dai.


    The best he could give her was to help her seed.


    Rong Dai did not know his thoughts, nor did she know he was considering things so far into her future.


    "Thank you," Rong Dai calmed the ripples in her heart and looked at him earnestly as she thanked him. At the same time, the pressure in her heart grew heavier.


    All of this required money!


    If she didn''t get any ie into her ount soon, she really would be crushed to death by Huo Shao Ting''s wealth.


    "Mm. Get changed first. You must meet this person."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. Rong Dai was about to hop over to find some clothes when he suddenly picked her up in his arms.


    "Ah!" Rong Dai cried out in fright, subconsciously putting her arms around his neck. Her breathing grew chaotic and her cheeks couldn''t help but flush.


    "Remember that I am your husband. You can tell me anything. You don''t need to conceal anything in front of me." Huo Shao Ting looked down at her, seeing her startled and bashful appearance. The warmth surging in his heart almost overwhelmed him.


    He had never experienced this before. This feeling made his heart ache. But he didn''t dare make too many demands of her.


    Although he had also noticed some changes in her, he still felt like his wife was full of secrets, and those secrets were the reason she was unwilling to open her heart to him.


    He didn''t want to force her. He could only get to know her needs little by little and unravel her secrets.


    "Mm," Rong Dai responded softly, lowering her eyes. The better Huo Shao Ting treated her and the more considerate he was, the more she felt like a thief. Her heart felt like it was being lingchi, that excruciating death by a thousand cuts.


    That sharp, stabbing pain made her very ufortable, but she had to restrain herself.


    In the past half month, Rong Dai had done a lot of thinking. When Huo Shao Ting was not around, she could fully follow her own heart.


    But as soon as she saw him, the psychological barriers she had constructed would instantly copse, leaving herpletely defenseless.


    Her heart was like a fleeing thief''s, with nowhere left to hide.


    She longed to bask in that ray of light, but she clearly knew her own identity - once she made contact, her true self would be exposed and she would lose everything in the end.


    The painful struggle of hovering at the edge, along with the joy and greed of wanting to get close to Huo Shao Ting, tore at her heart like a saw, back and forth.


    "How about this one?"


    Lost in thought, she didn''t notice Huo Shao Ting had already put her down at the bedside and gone to pick out clothes for her.


    Not until he spoke did Rong Daie back to her senses.


    Seeing the dress he held, she nodded, "Okay."


    She wasn''t in the mood. The sense of loss after clearly understanding the situation made her heart ache to the point she could hardly breathe.


    Sensing her change in mood, Huo Shao Ting''s deep eyes showed a probing look. He put the clothes down and walked over to her.

 Chapter 67: Can鈥檛 Say No

    <h4>Chapter 67</h4>


    ��Are you feeling unwell anywhere? If you don''t want to go, we can reschedule with him another day.��


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with concern in his eyes. Rong Dai hurriedly collected herself.


    As she looked at the man before her, he was always able to arrive by her side timely whenever she needed him most, and he always kept her in his thoughts every moment.


    Facing such an outstanding and considerate man, she could not restrain her heart from stirring, even though she had experienced the dust of the mortal world in her previous life.


    It was precisely because she had been forced to temper a heart of iron in her previous life that she desperately needed to be cared for and warmed.


    So when Huo Shao Ting appeared, her heart had unwittingly sunken for him.


    This was her downfall, and also heaven''s punishment for her previous life.


    To love yet be unable to attain it, she could finally understand why Wen Shi Lan had developed such immense hatred towards herself after being rejected by Huo Shao Ting repeatedly, driving her to madness.


    In her previous life, although she had been infatuated with that young gentleman, from some point in time, that affection had flowed away like water, gradually drifting farther and farther.


    What she had to do was maintain the majesty of an empress, and be a motherly figure to the entire nation.


    Carefully thinking back, she really had not experienced feelings like she had now in her previous life.


    She understood what she needed was to give up and let go of herself, but her heart still inadvertently hoped against hope, trapped in an extremely contradictory vicious cycle.


    ��I''m fine, just thought of some matters which made me feel anxious in my heart.��


    She shook her head, revealing a strained smile on her face.


    Seeing her strained appearance, Huo Shao Ting could not help but frown.


    ��How about that dress just now? I''ve been cooped up at home for a long time too, going out for a walk is a good thing.��


    She did not dare meet Huo Shao Ting''s eyes, afraid that if she took one look she would be unable to step out from them for the rest of her life.


    She was afraid.


    Rong Dai had never imagined that she would fall so thoroughly for a man of the modern times, her thirty years as an empress had really been in vain.


    ��Are you really alright?�� Huo Shao Ting asked suspiciously.


    He had seen her expression just now very clearly - lonely, anguished, struggling. These were not the emotions one should have when anxious over some matter.


    Just what was she agonizing and struggling over?


    Rong Dai silently regted her breathing, calming the various chaotic thoughts in her heart. Her gaze recovered its usual gentleness.


    ��I''m really fine, just thought of some things from the past which made me feel sad, that''s all.�� She gave a faint smile as she replied, ��Didn''t you say you wanted to bring me to see someone? After we''ve seen the person, could you apany me to buy some things?��


    She promptly changed the topic with a smile. She could not keep tormenting herself like this, she had to maintain rity.


    Seeing her say this, Huo Shao Ting did not continue questioning her either, afraid that pressing her too hard would instead make her even more uneasy.


    He got up to retrieve the dress, but embarrassingly, Rong Dai had no way to pull up the zipper at the back of her waist. Her face instantly flushed red.


    ��Shao Ting... could youe over and help me with this?��


    She sat inside the walk-in closet, her entire face burning red with embarrassment.


    When Huo Shao Ting heard the voice from inside the closet, his body instantly stiffened. He wasn''t an idiot, he knew very well what he would see upon entering.


    The scorching heat in his heart instantly surged upwards again, burning him until his limbs were practically cooked.


    He was a normal man. Even if he had never experienced such matters before, he had at least seen a pig run before even if he hadn''t eaten pork.


    He hesitated for a moment before stiffly entering the closet.


    The moment he set foot into the closet, he froze on the spot. His blood pressure skyrocketed, churning and moring within him!


    Gazing at the woman''s smooth, delicate back skin, her beautiful waistline, and the allure of where her waist extended, it set his imagination ame.


    Huo Shao Ting only felt as if his entire being had been flung into a great fiery furnace, the scorching agony making him nearly go insane!


    He had never thirsted so badly to possess a woman before. Seeing Rong Dai quietly sitting there, the tips of his fingers couldn''t help but turn hot. He subconsciously swallowed a mouthful of saliva.


    The walk-in closet had three mirrored sides, and this tiny movement of his just happened to catch Rong Dai''s eyes. Her cheeks burned even hotter.


    Her heart pounded wildly alongside his, and her breathing also gradually grew ragged. Sensing the aura emanating from his body, she felt as if her back was pressed against a giant heating stove, her entire body''s blood seething as well.


    ��Is it this one?�� Huo Shao Ting''s willpower was astounding. Although a certain part of him had reacted such that he nearly went mad, his tone remained extremely calm.


    ��Mm...�� Rong Dai did not dare look, her hands clutched tightly into fists, anxiously sweating a stickyyer.


    Huo Shao Ting secretly took a deep breath before bending down to pull it up for her.


    But the moment he reached out to touch her lower back, the pads of his fingers made contact with the skin of her waist.


    He didn''t know if it was because of his extreme longing, but her skin felt unbelievably smooth and delicate, just like warm, silky soft tofu.


    The two of them were trying their utmost to restrain the surging within their hearts, but this slight touch made them shudder in unison.


    The lighting in the closet seemed to have grown scorching hot as well, the high temperature and pressure causing their breathing to turn chaotic.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze inch by inch swept over her back, her nape, her slender, fair neck, her elegant silhouette, fully arousing his desire.


    ��Shao Ting...��


    Rong Dai felt his gaze was like a torch, slowly burning her back. This kind of scalding, suppressed sensation threw her mind and heart into great disorder. The tiny shreds of reason she still clung to forced her to call out to him.


    Huo Shao Ting instantly regained rity upon hearing this. He hurriedly and quickly pulled the zipper up for her, but his heart was still thundering away like beating drums.


    That stretch of snowy white, delicate skin on her waist which contained immense beauty still lingered in his mind, refusing to dissipate.


    ��I''m going to get some water,e out after you''re done.��


    Huo Shao Ting anxiously instructed her before fleeing the closet in a panic. He desperately needed to quell the surging tides in his heart and body.


    Silence descended upon the closet once more after he left. Rong Dai also heaved a sigh of relief, the sensation from earlier had been too crazy!


    She had even yearned for and hoped that Huo Shao Ting would do something. She believed she would not have refused him.


    If he wished to, she was willing to give herself to him.


    Although she had been an empress in her previous life, she had never experienced the feelings Huo Shao Ting evoked in her now. If it were still her past life, there was no way she would have done anything so scandalous.


    But she was now Huo Shao Ting''swfully wedded wife. Her heart did not reject the notion either.


    If heaven truly meant to punish her in this life, then she was willing to ept it. Even if she was destined to live out her remaining years in loneliness, she would have no regrets.


    But Huo Shao Ting had restrained himself, fleeing the very instant his gaze met hers. At that moment, Rong Dai''s heart held a shred of loss.


    If he had truly acted, perhaps she could have released more of the shackles around her heart. But he did not.


    Rong Dai softly sighed. After settling her emotions, she was startled by the thoughts that had run through her own mind, gazing at her blushing reflection in the mirror.


    She reached up, fingers brushing over her burning cheeks as her eyes grew firm. If Huo Shao Ting truly needed her, she would not refuse him.


    If doing so could ease the torment in her heart, bring him even the tiniest sliver of joy, she was willing.

 Chapter 68: Sister-in-law God Assists

    <h4>Chapter 68</h4>


    She breathed deeply a few times to calm her mind. Things like this can only naturally happen when the time is right. If she brought it up intentionally just to ease her anxiety, she wouldn��t be able to do it.


    Although the current world didn''t have the same rigid rules for women as her past life, this was still difficult for her to talk about.


    After tidying herself up in the dressing room, she came out and saw Huo Shao Ting drinking.


    "Didn''t you say you were drinking water? Why are you drinking alcohol on an empty stomach?"


    She frowned immediately. She remembered Huo Mei Shu said he had a bad stomach and even eating noodles made him feel sick unless they were freshly handmade.


    Drinking without eating will be too harsh on his stomach.


    Hearing the slight disapproval in her voice, Huo Shao Ting''s body tensed up involuntarily again. The feeling he had finally suppressed threatened to surface once more.


    "I...am a little nervous." He put down the wine ss and turned to look at her earnestly, not hiding his gaze at all.


    Rong Dai was taken aback, unsure how to respond to his words.


    The intimacy in the dressing room was real. Her emotional stirrings were real. Her physical sensations were also real. These were inescapable facts.


    "Let''s go. We can eat dinner out after meeting with them. I''ve booked a restaurant already."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t want to put her in a difficult position. He also wanted to see her reaction. Everything that happened in the dressing room earlier was so real.


    If he had brought it up himself earlier, would she have refused?


    For other married couples, this would have happened naturally. Why did it be such a huge hurdle for them?


    Hearing that he didn''t continue the topic, Rong Dai immediately felt relieved. She nodded demurely and was about to head over.


    "Is the crutch ufortable? Hopping around like this isn''t good for your other leg either."


    Giving up the fruitless thoughts, Huo Shao Ting walked over to her and picked her up without another word. His voice was gentle as he asked about her condition.


    This time, Rong Dai didn''t scream. Although her actions were slightly shy as she clung onto his neck, her eyes were lowered as she looked at her legs and gave a small nod. "It''s not that the crutch is no good. I''m just not used to using it yet."


    "If you get used to it, that would be even worse." Huo Shao Ting''s mouth curved up into a smile. It was rare to see the usually cold and stern man make a joke.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but chuckle lightly. "That does seem true."


    Because of this casual joke, the earlier awkwardness between them dissipated. Huo Shao Ting carried her downstairs.


    "Big brother, you two...can''t you spare brother and I some consideration and refrain from showing affection at home?"


    Huo Mei Shu and Lu Zheng were sitting on the sofa. She was using the handkerchief embroidered by Rong Dai to wipe Lu Zheng''s hands.


    Seeing the intimate coupleing downstairs, she was very happy inside but couldn''t resist teasing them.


    Lu Zheng originally harbored great resentment towards Rong Dai over this matter, but she had no choice but to heed Huo Shao Ting''s words. So these days, she tried her best to avoid seeing Rong Dai to prevent getting angry.


    Witnessing this gentle and considerate side of her usually cold and aloof son made her relieved and delighted. Added to Huo Mei Shu''s earlier praises of Rong Dai, her resentments dissipated into thin air.


    Hearing her sister-inw''s teasing, Rong Dai really wished she could shut the girl''s mouth.


    Her face was beet red as she leaned motionless against Huo Shao Ting''s chest, too embarrassed to speak.


    This was utterly shameful and improper!


    To act so recklessly in front of her mother-inw, how indecent.


    Rong Dai regretted bitterly that she shouldn''t have used the crutch.


    "Alright, watch that mouth of yours." As one who had been through this before, Lu Zheng understood Rong Dai''s awkwardness. As long as her son was happy, she would be supportive.


    Huo Mei Shu stuck out her tongue, gaze teasing the couple.


    Although the incident this time was dangerous and both Zuo Ran and Wen Shi Lan were hateful people, it could be considered a blessing in disguise that brought the couple closer together. Their misdeeds had made some contribution to society, it seemed.


    "Rong Dai and I will eat out tonight, so don''t wait dinner for us."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t feel anything wrong with carrying his wife. On the contrary, he wished for more opportunities like this. He yearned to get closer to Rong Dai but also feared frightening her.


    Although he could sense changes in Rong Dai now, they had only met twice before getting married so there was no emotional foundation at all.


    After marrying, they even slept separately on their wedding night, let alone have any spousal interactions.


    It seemed that changes were urring between them, or rather changes in Rong Dai after her appendectomy.


    She was no longer gloomy and reticent. He would not let their marriage be in name only.


    That was why he had brought up divorce. She had misunderstood, thinking he had feelings for Wen Shi Lan. It seemed like he noticed changes in her after that. Following her wishes, he had temporarily shelved the divorce idea.


    If time could heal and change everything, he had the patience to wait for her.


    "Go, go." Lu Zheng was overjoyed! Seeing the couple leave, she couldn''t help the tears welling up in her eyes.


    "Mom, didn''t I tell you rightly? Sister-inw was previously hesitant to ept big brother because of that lunatic Zuo Ran and felt guilty about using us. But aren''t they doing well now? An arranged marriage progressing to love isn''t bad. What''s important is that big brother and sister-inw are happy together, right?"


    Taking the opportunity, Huo Mei Shu immediately sang praises of Rong Dai to Lu Zheng. Her impressions of this sister-inw were very different.


    The previous one was like an entirely different person. The current one was another person altogether.


    She was also understanding and smart. Most importantly, Huo Mei Shu had witnessed Rong Dai''s resilience.


    The scene of her fighting Zuo Ran for her life was unforgettable to Huo Mei Shu. She felt that Rong Dai had changed after oveing tribtions.


    Having such a sister-inw apanying big brother, she was naturally delighted.


    "Do I need you to tell me? Can''t I understand it myself?" Lu Zheng pretended to re at her and carefully stroked the handkerchief, unable to conceal the amazement in her eyes. "This is really embroidered by your sister-inw? Not many young people nowadays know this skill. Your mother learned a little when she was young but this is too difficult."


    "Would I trick you? I''ve seen the patterns sister-inw drew and even bought the threads, silks and satins myself." Huo Mei Shu preened, gazing proudly at her own handkerchief, in an excellent mood.


    "Oh right, mom. Sister-inw said her legs are inconvenient so she feels bored at home. You see how exquisite her skills are. She wants to take on work orders. Although our Huo family isn''tcking money, a outstanding man like big brother surely wouldn''t like a useless good-for-nothing. Sister-inw also studied design. You have broad connections, so introduce her to some madams, okay?"


    Remembering Rong Dai''s words from earlier, Huo Mei Shu immediately seized the opportunity. This was also a good chance to mend the mother-inw daughter-inw rtionship.

 Chapter 69: Her Name

    <h4>Chapter 69</h4>


    When Rong Dai arrived at the meeting ce, it was Huo Shao Ting again who carried her down. He didn''t even bring the cane, and of course he wouldn''t agree to let her try walking either. Although the rehabilitation had been very effective, she still had to follow a n for how many steps to walk each day.


    If she overexerted herself, it would still affect her legs and feet. Compared to losing face, she really didn''t want to beme in the future. She simply gave up struggling and let Huo Shao Ting carry her into the private room for the meeting.


    When they arrived in the private room, fortunately the person they were meeting had not yet arrived, otherwise Rong Dai felt she really would have wanted to find a hole in the floor to crawl into.


    "I''mte, I''mte. Traffic in Shenjing is getting worse and worse. Next time I need to buy a bicycle."


    The married couple had just sat down and drank two sips of tea when the door to the private room opened, and a white-haired old gentleman in his sixties energetically walked in.


    As soon as he entered, his gaze sharply fell on Rong Dai. Rong Dai''s heart tightened, and she quickly sat up properly with a dignified yet indifferent expression on her face.


    No matter who she met, she could not reveal her own weakness. This of course did not include Huo Shao Ting.


    "Little Huo, I wondered what kind of person could catch your eye. You have good taste."


    The old gentleman only looked at her for a few seconds before shifting his gaze, giving Huo Shao Ting a big thumbs up.


    A smile appeared on Huo Shao Ting''s face as he looked at Rong Dai gently and proudly responded, "Uncle Jiang, you tter me. My wife is outstanding."


    Sitting on the side, Rong Dai struggled to keep a smile on her stiff face. She had to secretly kick him under the table, signaling with her eyes for him to introduce the other person to her.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her withughter in his eyes, "This is veteran actor Jiang Ling. I call him Uncle Jiang. You can just call him the same. He''s an old rascal who likes joking around. You''ll need to learn to distinguish what he says."


    "You little rascal,ing here just to undermine me, huh?" Jiang Ling pretended to re angrily at Huo Shao Ting before shifting his gaze back to Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. What kind of introduction was this?


    However, judging by their manner of speaking, it was clear these two had a deep rtionship. Otherwise, they wouldn''t speak to each other this way. Her heart eased a bit.


    "Rong Dai...very nice name. Which Rong character is it?" Jiang Ling looked at her admiringly and asked.


    "The indigo that spreads a thousand miles, peaks emerging through the clouds," Rong Dai blurted out almost immediately.


    As soon as the words left her mouth, she was startled. In her previous life, she had also asked her parents about the origin of her name. Her mother had given her this answer.


    It wasn''t until many yearster that she finally understood why her mother had told her those words. By then, she was already far removed from what her parents had spoken of.


    She had entered the imperial pce, and that kind of carefree life could only be a fantasy.


    Huo Shao Ting raised his brows. This was the first time he had heard her mention that her name contained such literary allusions.


    "Wang Wei''s poetry. Few young people today take the time to study it seriously. I saw your audition tape. It was quite good, but there is still so much more you need to learn in order to perform a role well. If it wasn''t for this rascal asking, I wouldn''t have wanted to exhaust myself at my old age."


    Jiang Ling nodded. He didn''t watch the news. After retiring, he just fished, gardened, and cultivated his moral character. If Huo Shao Ting hadn''t pulled him out, he wouldn''t have wanted to get involved in the mundane world again.


    Rong Dai immediately understood and looked at Huo Shao Ting in surprise and astonishment. She didn''t expect he would go to this much trouble for her.


    She had never voiced any of this to him, yet he had paid close attention and arranged everything well for her.


    When she epted this role, it was purely because her wallet was empty, and it happened to align with her experiences in her previous life, so she had dared to boldly take it on.


    But she had no professional acting training. This was a work that would ultimately be presented before the public eye and could not have any carelessness.


    Although she could grasp the psychology of the female protagonist, there were still some things she very much needed guidance on.


    "Thank you for your trouble, Uncle Jiang. Rong Dai will definitely study diligently," she quickly bowed her head respectfully.


    Seeing her attitude, Jiang Ling seemed fairly satisfied and nodded, "It''s good that you''re willing to learn diligently. But I have to be blunt. If you can''t learn it well, be prepared to endure hardship. I advise you to quit as soon as possible. I won''t go easy on you just because of this rascal."


    Rong Dai was very clear she desperately needed this guidance. Were the hardships she had endured in her previous life still too few? These difficulties would be nothing to her.


    "Don''t worry, Uncle Jiang. I will apply myself diligently," she said with determination.


    Even if she encountered difficulties, she was unwilling to disappoint him after he had gone to so much trouble.


    Jiang Ling nodded, then drank the tea in his cup and got up, looking at the two of them with his hands sped behind his back like an old supervisor doing an inspection.


    "Then it''s decided. Starting tomorrow, I''ll teach you. I just have two requirements��be on time and study diligently."


    Rong Dai nodded. Jiang Ling''s gaze shifted to Huo Shao Ting, "Now you rascal must be satisfied, right? The house had better be prepared nicely for me. I want peace and quiet. Noisy disruptions affect my mood."


    The corners of Huo Shao Ting''s mouth curled up into a smile. "Will a jade mansion and golden pavilion suffice? I''ve arranged cars, housekeepers, everything for you. Here are the keys."


    He slid the keys across the table to Jiang Ling.


    Jiang Ling humphed withughter, "Now that''s more like it. At least you still have some conscience, you rascal. This old bag of bones won''t disturb your newlywed bliss. I''m going to visit some old friends."


    Humming a tune, he left the private room. The meeting before and after hadsted no more than ten minutes.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Did dealing with matters in the modern world always happen this swiftly?


    "He''s always been like this. This is your first role. I believe in your abilities. But if you''re unhappy learning from Old Man Jiang, or if he makes you ufortable, tell me anytime. We can switch teachers immediately."


    After the other person left, Huo Shao Ting looked intently at Rong Dai and spoke earnestly.


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly. She was very afraid of this kind of eye contact with him.


    "I''ll study diligently. I can still endure some hardship," she nodded. Even in the face of difficulties, she was unwilling to disappoint him after he had gone to so much trouble.


    "Then let''s go eat. That old guy is strict. I got you a new car and driver specifically to take you to his ce."


    Huo Shao Ting stood up and looked down at her.


    Rong Dai''s heart felt warm and fuzzy. He had considered everything so thoughtfully for her. Of course she was touched.


    But along with the feeling of being touched, her heart also ached slightly. She knew this tenderness from him was not meant for her, but for the original owner of this body.


    "Okay, I''ll follow your arrangements," she nodded. Seeing him lean down, she very naturally put her arms around his neck.


    By the time the two arrived at the reserved restaurant, night had already fallen over Shenjing.


    The setting sun was dazzling, its fiery colors interwoven against the backdrop of deep blue. Layers of purple tinged the thick indigo, transitioning into heavy gray that connected with the dense color of dark blue, the sun sinking down in all its glory.


    The noisy, bustling city streets and colorful, dazzling neon lights. Rong Dai sat in her chair, her gaze passing through the floor-to-ceiling window before her, watching the setting sun. Her heart''s unease and restlessness were strangely soothed.

 Chapter 70: The Doubts of Timothy Fok

    <h4>Chapter 70</h4>


    "A ray of setting sun shone on the water''s surface, half the river shimmering and half turning red. How beautiful this sunset was, bringing such tranquility," she couldn''t help but speak up, the speck of lingering glow reflected in her eyes bing dazzlingly bright.


    Following her gaze, Huo Shao Ting looked over. His mind waspletely upied by work. As Huo Shao Jie would say, he was a man without any interest in life.


    Previously, he didn''t have this state of mind or time to appreciate such things. Hearing Rong Dai say this now, his eyes also passed through the transparent ss and fell on the setting sun, seeming to gain some understanding of the feeling she spoke of.


    "If you like it, we can go see it together next time."


    His gaze moved to her cheek. Her skin was so fine it was unbelievable, any ray of light thatnded on it seemed to bring outyers of illusory radiance.


    Perhaps because he had never devoted his attention fully to a woman before, now that his thoughts were on Rong Dai, he noticed many differences.


    "That would be lovely. Most people like sunrises, but I prefer sunsets, watching the sun slowly sinking in the west, the feeling is indescribable."


    In her previous life, she had lived within those four walls for thirty years, and what she enjoyed most was standing atop the high pavilion watching the sun dip below the horizon.


    Huo Shao Ting listened very attentively, because he wanted to understand her better, know more and more about her.


    "Let''s eat, I''m...a bit hungry," Rong Dai suddenly realized she had waxed sentimental for too long, and quickly changed the topic.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t poke holes in her motives, just called the waiter over to order.


    "The steak here is quite good, would you like some wine?" Huo Shao Ting asked her.


    Looking at the borate cement of knives and forks before her, Rong Dai only then realized...she didn''t know how to use any of these.


    She also hadn''t learned etiquette in this area. She knew that in this modern world, cultures from many countries intersected, not closed off like in her previous life.


    These items clearly weren''t Chinese, and her scalp prickled with unease, conflicted and a bit embarrassed.


    Raising her head to look at Huo Shao Ting, she secretly gritted her teeth and decided to be forthright, "I...have never had Western food."


    After all, it was up to her now what the original owner An Feiya''s life had been like.


    Although Huo Shao Ting''s expression didn''t show any surprise, inwardly he was taken aback.


    Because he had already sent people to investigate An Feiya''s identity, but the results were still pending confirmation. What could be confirmed was that An Feiya had returned to China from abroad and settled down.


    How could someone raised overseas since childhood possibly not know Western cuisine? How could her daughter not understand Western dining etiquette?


    The strange feeling and doubts buried in his heart churned up again, but Huo Shao Ting still didn''t voice them.


    If these were secrets she was unwilling to open up to him about, even if he asked, she might not tell him. It could even make their rtionship, which had barely changed for the better, be rigid.


    "It''s alright, I can teach you," he said very gently.


    Rong Dai nodded. She didn''t feel ashamed at all. Compared to embarrassing herself in public in the future, she''d rather be humiliated in front of Huo Shao Ting.


    Plus she needed to learn these things. She believed in Huo Shao Ting''s upbringing and manners.


    Throughout the meal, Huo Shao Ting was very attentive to her needs, and taught her carefully and in detail. He also exined some cultural background about dining to her, which she listened to earnestly.


    "Shao Jie and the others always say you''re stiff, with nothing but work on your mind. Looks like they understand too little about you."


    After drinking a bit of wine, her cheeks were flushed, and her eyes shone like little stars in the light. She looked at him with slight admiration and said this.


    A man of his excellence was a fatal allure in and of itself. Although she didn''t know how big the Huo family business was, she knew the capabilities one needed to have power.


    The more she got close to this man, the more she found it hard to restrain the joy in her heart over his outstanding character and qualities.


    "Mrs. Huo, you have time to get to know me slowly. The one who needs to spend a lifetime with me is you, as long as you understand."


    Seeing her pampered yet dignified and elegant appearance, Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened like it was infused with honey. He spoke without any reservations.


    Rong Dai''splexion burned. The bit of wine hadn''t made her lose her rity.


    She hoped so much that his words were truly meant for her, but she knew clearly they were meant for someone else.


    This kind of pain, no one else could empathize with.


    She could only smile lightly and nod, "I will."


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze didn''t leave her for a second. He nced at his watch, there was still ample time.


    "Would you like to watch a movie?"


    Wasn''t watching a movie said to be essential for couples'' dates, to improve feelings? He could learn these things too.


    Rong Dai had experienced this world only through the phone, and was also extremely eager to get to know it. She nodded.


    Huo Shao Ting''s arrangements were swift. He carried her downstairs again into the car and drove straight to the cinema.


    To create an "everyday life" atmosphere, Huo Shao Ting didn''t rent out the entire cinema. The two chose the furthest corner couple seats.


    Rong Dai looked around the theater full of curiosity, all of this was very novel to her.


    "This is Coke, if you don''t like the taste, we can still go buy something else now."


    Huo Shao Ting could see the excitement and curiosity in her eyes very clearly. Towards his wife''s "strange" behavior, the mysteries in his heart grew even more.


    Even if it was madness, it hadn''t reached the extent of imprisoning mother and daughter.


    She was a modern person, An Feiya''s job was good, she didn''te from an impoverished rural area, so how could she still act so excited?


    Her behavior gave Huo Shao Ting the illusion that she was like she wasn''t even a modern person.


    He knew thinking this was preposterous, but other than these little details, he couldn''t find any evidence to prove Rong Dai wasn''t modern.


    "It''s fine, I''ll just drink this. You''re the grand CEO of the Huo Group, if you go out like this, we won''t be able to watch this movie."


    Rong Dai held him back and murmured, she understood very clearly how busy Huo Shao Ting was. Since he had made time today, she would treat it as giving him a vacation, and also an opportunity for herself to gain knowledge.


    Plus she had witnessed the terrifying speed of information here. If they made the hot search again, the things that had finally just died down might get brought up for another round.


    As she spoke, to prove she "wasn''t picky", she took a sip of the Coke. The bizarre sensation hitting her mouth nearly made her spit it out.


    What was this taste? Both stimting and pungent.


    But she didn''t dare spit it out, forcibly swallowing it down. She instantly let out a burp, her whole face red, and could only find an excuse for herself, "I...drank too fast."


    Huo Shao Ting could see her minute expressions very clearly, though he badly wanted to ask, he still held back, only saying gently, "Drink slower."


    Rong Dai obediently nodded. The movie started ying, the lights in the theater dimmed, and her gaze focusedpletely on the screen, while Huo Shao Ting''s thoughts were on her.

 Chapter 71: Kissed Him

    <h4>Chapter 71</h4>


    After watching a movie, Rong Dai was amazed. She did not expect life in this world to be so interesting. Everything here aroused her curiosity and felt novel to her.


    The unease in her heart after being reborn gradually disappeared, filling her with anticipation for the future.


    Even if she could not be loved again, even if this was the punishment given to her by the heavens, she would still live her life well.


    The sense of loss in her heart also dissipated along with the ending of the movie. If one day she had the courage to confess to Huo Shao Ting and could obtain his love, that would of course be best.


    If not, she would not have lived this life in vain. How many people could have an experience like hers?


    She should not be so worried and anxious. Since she and Huo Shao Ting did not have a chance together, she should not dwell on the uncertainties of the future, but cherish the present instead.


    There might be some things she would regret not doing in the future, but she was sure she would have no regrets.


    If her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting was just a shallow connection, she was willing to enjoy it.


    Her heart suddenly felt much more open. As the credits rolled on the screen, she turned to look at the man beside her, feeling a genuine thrill in her heart. The sense of fulfillment was also real.


    Her palms were slightly sweaty. After taking a deep breath, she suddenly leaned over and kissed Huo Shao Ting lightly on the cheek, whispering softly, ��Thank you, Shao Ting. I��m d I got to know you.��


    Rong Dai did not expect herself to be so bold, but in that moment she just wanted to follow her heart.


    Before Huo Shao Ting could react, the lights in the theater came on.


    Rong Dai was burning hot all over. Not daring to look at Huo Shao Ting, she fled the theater as if escaping.


    Huo Shao Ting was stunned in his seat, his heartbeat getting faster and breathing more rapid. His cheek seemed to retain the memory, repeating the soft touch over and over.


    When he came to his senses, Rong Dai had already left the theater. She stood outside waiting for him, her heart both sweet and panicking.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were deep, with a hint of a smile at the corner of his lips. He immediately got up and strode out.


    As soon as he exited the theater, their eyes met as if they could sense each other.


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly. Hurriedly lowering her head to look at her toes, two alluring red clouds appeared on her cheeks.


    Huo Shao Ting could see her tension and shyness. With his sexy lips pressed together, the delight in his heart was something he had not felt for a very long time.


    He strode over and picked her up in his arms without a word, gazing down at her as he said gently but with a hint of pampering, "Your foot is still injured. Don''t run around like this."


    Rong Dai was so ashamed she wanted to find a hole to crawl into. She could clearly feel Huo Shao Ting''s breath on her face, and hear his powerful heartbeat.


    The sweetness and tension in her heart intertwined, making her breathing irregr and her face hotter and hotter. She could only give him a barely audible response.


    Huo Shao Ting was very happy that she acted this way with him. Seeing her tension, he said nothing more and carried her downstairs.


    Only when she was safely seated in the car did Rong Dai cover her chest with her hand to steady her chaotic breathing.


    "What do you want to buy?"


    Huo Shao Ting did not mention what had happened. He was considerate of her feelings - bringing it up now would only embarrass her more. He was worried it might make her afraid to reveal her true feelings in the future.


    Seeing that he did not mention what had happened, Rong Dai rxed a little. Since he wasn''t talking about it, she would pretend it didn''t happen either.


    Thinking this, her breathing calmed down a lot.


    She looked out at the night and then at the time on her phone. It was already 10pm.


    "It''s just a small thing, not that urgent. It''s veryte now, we''ve been out for a while, we should head back."


    She had originally wanted Huo Shao Ting to take her to buy some embroidery floss she needed, but now it waste, and she didn''t know where to buy such things here anyway.


    Huo Shao Ting was a bigpany CEO, he probably didn''t often go shopping like this and wouldn''t know either.


    "Alright then." Huo Shao Ting did not insist. He wondered if his reaction had been too slow earlier, letting her run out like that when her foot, though healed, still needed rehabilitation time.


    The two sat very close in the car, with the driver like a transparent person who could bepletely ignored.


    Rong Dai was still very nervous, her palms still sweating. Unable to find anything to say to him, she could only look at the colorful lights outside the window.


    The two rode back to the Huo residence in silence. As before, Huo Shao Ting carried her from the car.


    Remembering little sister Huo''s teasing when they went out earlier, Rong Dai struggled as they entered the house, "Help me get my crutch."


    Seeing her cheeks still flushed, Huo Shao Ting carefully set her down and thoughtfully changed her into slippers before going upstairs for her crutch.


    From upstairs, Huo Mei Shu watched the entire thing clearly. Taking advantage of the time Huo Shao Ting went to fetch the crutch, she came downstairs, eyeing Rong Dai curiously.


    Rong Dai felt very ufortable under her gaze. Gossip lover Huo Mei Shu stroked her chin and asked teasingly, "Sister-inw, you''re looking a little odd! How far have you gotten with my brother? Have you kissed yet?"


    Huo Mei Shu was modern, so her words were not inappropriate, but they made Rong Dai''s face burn red. Somewhat annoyed, she red at her, "I''m just...too hot."


    As soon as she said it, Rong Dai wanted to p herself. She didn''t even believe her own words.


    "Oh? I see, it must be because my brother''s embrace is too fiery, or his suit is too thick. Next time I''ll have to tell him, when going on a couples'' getaway with sister-inw, he should wear less - between spouses there shouldn''t be secrets..."


    "Mei Shu!" Rong Dai''s face was crimson. She red at Huo Mei Shu in embarrassment and annoyance, but it had no menace at all.


    Huo Mei Shuughed out loud immediately. Hearing footstepsing down the stairs, she whispered sneakily in Rong Dai''s ear, "Don''t be shy, it will get betterter. Feelings are either progressing or regressing!"


    Having said that, she darted into the kitchen pretending to look for a drink.


    When Huo Shao Ting came downstairs with the crutch, he saw Rong Dai''spletely red, shy little face. The scene in the closet shed uncontrobly in his mind again, and his fingertips grew hot too, the spot on his cheek she had kissed also gradually heating up.

 Chapter 72: His Passion

    <h4>Chapter 72</h4>


    "Do you need me to help you?" He took a deep breath to calm his wandering thoughts, then walked over and handed Rong Dai her cane, gently asking her another question.


    Huo Mei Shu was hiding in the kitchen watching the show. Seeing her eldest brother miss such a good opportunity, she was a little exasperated with him.


    With a twinkle in her eye, a n formed in her mind. Looking at the milk in her hand, her eyes gleamed mischievously as she walked over to the two of them.


    "Eldest brother, sister-inw, you''re back! I just happened to heat up some milk. Sister-inw, drink some, it''s good for sleep."


    She handed the cup forcefully to Rong Dai without waiting to see if she would take it or not.


    The milk sshed out, instantly spilling all over Rong Dai. Her cane was also soaked.


    "Oh no! I''m so clumsy, I got your cane all wet too. I''ll go wash it off. Eldest brother, carry sister-inw upstairs."


    She quickly snatched the cane back from Rong Dai, and winked yfully at Huo Shao Ting.


    This little sister was very thoughtful, wasn''t she?


    Then she quickly escaped into the kitchen, leaning against the doorframe to continue watching the "story" unfold.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    What should she say to this little girl...


    Huo Shao Ting had already carried her up and down the stairs six or seven times today! Besides, this was...really awkward.


    She looked up at Huo Shao Ting anxiously, a trace of irritable shyness in her eyes. Her voice trembled slightly:


    "Or...you can carry me upstairs."


    She had run out of the cinema just now because she was too nervous. She must have walked too hurriedly, because her ankle was starting to hurt a little now.


    She wasn''t afraid of anything, but she would never joke around with her own body.


    If she sprained her ankle, it would not only affect her gait, but also cause her some inconvenience.


    "Alright." How could Huo Shao Ting not know that Huo Mei Shu was deliberately creating opportunities for them? It was just that his eyes had strayed to ces they shouldn''t have earlier, and the surging feelings in his body were a bit difficult to suppress at the moment.


    Rong Dai didn''t notice the few drops of milk that had slid down her neck from her corbone. She had a very nice figure, with all the right curves in all the right ces.


    There had been subtle hints of ambiguity between the two all day today, so it was only natural that Huo Shao Ting would notice these little details.


    His Adam''s apple moved instinctively as he bent down to pick her up.


    Huo Mei Shu leaned against the door watching the two of them go upstairs. Humming a song, she went to put away the cup, and casually tossed the cane into the corner of the kitchen.


    With eldest brother around, what did they need a cane for? It was clearly superfluous.


    When they arrived in the bedroom, Rong Dai was extremely nervous.


    This was the marital chamber of the two of them. It used to be Huo Shao Ting''s bedroom, and after their marriage, they had renovated itpletely. Everything was filled with romantic overtones, especially the lighting in the bedroom��warm-colored, except for the deskmp, casting a gentle, ambiguous glow that easily led one''s thoughts astray and aroused reckless passions.


    "I''ll go run you a bath. You''ve sweated a lot today, soaking in hot water will help you sleep."


    Huo Shao Ting set her down on the sofa, heaving an invisible sigh of relief. This was truly testing his self-control!


    "Okay." Rong Dai didn''t dare meet his eyes, keeping her head lowered and gaze fixed on her toes.


    Huo Shao Ting took off his suit jacket and went into the bathroom to fill up the tub for her. He consideratelyid out the toiletries for her use before leaving.


    "I...I can get in myself."


    Seeing him bend down again, preparing to carry her, Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly, skipping a beat. Her cheeks burned fiery hot, and no matter how she tried, she couldn''t bring her body temperature down.


    Huo Shao Ting ignored her words and picked her up to carry her into the bathroom anyway.


    Once inside, Rong Dai eyed the filled bathtub. Lifting a hand, she realized there was no way she could unzip her dress herself.


    She was instantly embarrassed, and could only blush and ask Huo Shao Ting, who was about to leave, toe back:


    "Shao...Shao Ting...can you help me unzip? I...can''t reach."


    Rong Dai really hated that her arms weren''t longer in that moment. Asking like this made it seem like she was deliberately trying to entice Shao Ting.


    Like a hungry, insatiable courtesan saying to a client, "Dear patron,e quickly! I''ve been waiting a long time..."


    Ugh!


    What nonsense about a courtesan!


    A voice in Rong Dai''s heart cursed silently. Her heart thumped erratically, pounding like a trapped deer.


    Huo Shao Ting''s steps faltered. He gazed at the woman''s back, and the scene from the cloakroom floated into his mind again.


    "Shao Ting?" Hearing no movement for a while, Rong Dai assumed he had left. She instinctively turned her head and called out softly.


    It just so happened that she turned right as Huo Shao Ting walked back to unzip her dress for her.


    Their heated breaths intertwined. Blood surged through their bodies, their hearts raced, and waves of fiery tingles washed over them with each frantic beat.


    Gazing at Huo Shao Ting so intimately close, Rong Dai''s mind went nk. A small voice inside was chanting: she was willing.


    Huo Shao Ting had been holding back the entire afternoon. Seeing the look in Rong Dai''s eyes now, he understood. His sturdy arms embraced her slender waist seemingly of their own ord, pulling her against his chest.


    Feeling the softness of her delicate body, his blood roared like magma. Breathing heavily, his dark eyes reflected her face.


    Rong Dai had never felt such madness before. The ecstasy and passion...his ardor robbed her of all thought. Hearing his low murmur, she softly replied, her throat delicate and coy.


    Her response emboldened Huo Shao Ting. He wanted nothing more than to pull her into his very marrow!


    "Sister-inw! Sister-inw!"


    Just as the two were losing themselves, Huo Shao Jie arrived at their worst possible moment, contract in hand, pounding anxiously on their bedroom door. Of course, the door was unlocked, so he rushed right in.


    "Sister-inw?"


    Seeing the bedroom empty, Huo Shao Jie was frantic. He had been working on this contract issue all afternoon��it wasn''t easy for him!


    Hearing the voice outside, Rong Dai''s body jerked in surprise as reason slowly trickled back.


    Hands braced against Huo Shao Ting''s chest, her face still flushed, breathing still rapid, she shyly yet firmly pushed him away. "Shao Ting...Shao Jie is outside."


    In her previous life, she was no stranger to intimacy between men and women, but she had never experienced such passion born of emotion. She knew full well where things would lead if they kept going.


    It wasn''t that she was rejecting Huo Shao Ting, but Huo Shao Jie''s intrusion had interrupted her mood. Although she still craved to continue as well.


    However, in such matters, it was a spur of the moment thing. With Huo Shao Jie still calling out, she had no choice but to rein in her senses.

 Chapter 73: Huo Shaojie

    <h4>Chapter 73</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing stalled for a moment, his eyes slightly red. At this moment, he really wanted to strangle Huo Shao Jie to death!


    He let go of his hand, turned around and walked out, his murderous aura churning as he scowled with a gloomy face, his eyes staring sinisterly at Huo Shao Jie with an icy cold voice: "This had better be something deadly important!"


    Huo Shao Jie was at a loss, what did he do to provoke anyone? Wasn''t it Big Brother himself who said he wanted a contract?


    And what''s with this murderous look on his face, did he want to tear him to shreds?


    "Big brother, didn''t you want a contract for sister-inw? I''ve already had the legal team..."


    "Second brother!" Huo Mei Shu quickly rushed over, jumped up to hook her arms around his neck, and covered his mouth with her hand.


    How could this second brother be such a killjoy?!


    Big brother and sister-inw were finally making some progress, yet he had toe and ruin it! It was simply a waste of all her efforts!


    Forget about Huo Shao Ting wanting to strangle him, even she wanted to!


    "Big brother, you and sister-inw go on, go on! I''ll take care of this tactless one!"


    Huo Mei Shu used all her strength to drag Huo Shao Jie towards the door, while smiling benevolently at the terribly gloomy-faced Huo Shao Ting, "Big brother, remember to lock the door!"


    After dragging him out, she even reminded thoughtfully, "Big brother, remember to lock the door!"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the closed bedroom door, his hand clenched into a fist, his gaze was murderously gloomy, as if it could kill someone!


    Rong Dai stood in the bathroom and heard everything going on outside clearly. One hand clutched her chest as her rationality gradually returned, taking deep breaths to calm her racing heart.


    However, the passionate scene between them earlier was burned into her mind. She nced at the bathroom door. Even if she wanted to continue, the two of them had already lost the surge of emotions from before.


    She carefully held on to the sink and went to close and lock the bathroom door. Looking at herself in the mirror, she heaved a huge sigh of relief.


    With difficulty, she unzipped her dress herself and soaked in the warm bathtub, only then did she gradually let go of the tension in her heart.


    Seeing the bathroom door close, Huo Shao Ting''s face became even more gloomy.


    Having been dragged away by Huo Mei Shu, Huo Shao Jie finally caught his breath. He looked at her indignantly, "Huo Mei Shu! You''re getting more and more disrespectful!"


    But Huo Mei Shu had her arms akimbo, looking at him resentfully, snorting coldly, "You should thank me for saving your life."


    Huo Shao Jie frowned. He nced at Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai''s bedroom, slowly recounting what had happened in the living room.


    "Big brother and sister-inw were burning with passion, and going through this incident again was a good chance to rekindle their feelings. Who knows, maybe the two made some progress just now before you so untimely interrupted and spoiled everything."


    "You tell me, do you think big brother will let you off?" Huo Mei Shu looked at him gloatingly, sighing to herself that she would still have to find time to facilitate the further development of big brother and sister-inw''s rtionship.


    As for this guy Huo Shao Jie, there was no hope he could help at all, she could only hope he would stop causing trouble.


    "What did you say?" Huo Shao Jie suddenly felt he was done for, his face instantly paled. He was shocked, his hands and feet turning ice cold.


    It was still the sweltering August in Shenjing, yet Huo Shao Jie felt he no longer had a summer.


    Big brother had been a monk for thirty years. With this interruption of his... wouldn''t that make it thirty-one years now?


    "Little sister, little sister! What should I do?"


    Huo Shao Jie immediately surrendered and pleaded for her help.


    Huo Mei Shu gave an evilugh, "Now you know to ask for my help? Why didn''t you readily agree when I sought your help earlier?"


    "I..." Huo Shao Jie felt his life was very dark.


    What karma had he umted?


    "If I were you, I would immediately pack up and leave to avoid this catastrophe, onlying back after big brother breaks his abstinence. "


    Having said that, she hummed a tune and left. This guy was finally getting his retribution!


    Huo Shao Jie stood there in a daze for a few seconds before reacting. He immediately wanted to flee the scene.


    But how could Huo Shao Ting possibly let him go?


    He had been abstinent for thirty years and was about to achieve consummation. Yet now it was ruined by him, who knew when the next chance woulde again.


    "Where are you going?"


    Huo Shao Ting came out and closed the door behind him, his face gloomy as he stared coldly at Huo Shao Jie''s back, his voice icy.


    In that instant, Huo Shao Jie felt as if his back was pierced by a sword. His fate was strangling his throat. His footsteps froze.


    "Big...big brother... You''re not sleeping yet? Hehe..."


    Huo Shao Jie forced out an awkward smile as he turned around to look at him, asking stiffly.


    "Sleep? Do you think I can sleep tonight?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s words were almost squeezed out between gritted teeth.


    "Hehehehe..."


    Huo Shao Jie could onlyugh dryly, what else could he say? Ruining someone''s intimate moment was asking to be struck by lightning!


    "You can stillugh. It seems you''re in quite a good mood." Huo Shao Ting continued provoking as he walked towards him step by step.


    As Huo Shao Ting approached, to Huo Shao Jie it was as if the devil himself was approaching.


    "I...big brother, please spare me, I was wrong!"


    People in the industry would never imagine that the serious and meticulous Huo the director in his work, would have such a surrendering side.


    Huo Shao Jie really wanted to cry, his eyes full of pleading.


    But Huo Shao Ting revealed an evil smile. He draped an arm over his shoulder. In his embrace, Huo Shao Jie was like a littlemb caught by a big grey wolf, shivering pitifully.


    "Want to admit your mistake? I rememberst month you bought a bottle of very collectible red wine. Apany me for a drink? Hmm?"


    The calmer Huo Shao Ting''s voice was, the more nervous Huo Shao Jie felt.


    Hearing he wanted to drink, his heart chilled halfway. For a moment, he really wished he was a dead dried salted fish.


    Outsiders didn''t know, but their own family knew.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t drink outside, but he did drink at home.


    While Huo Shao Jie only collected wine and didn''t drink, because after drinking... some sights were really too hard on the eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t give him a chance. He almost forcibly took him away.


    "This is mine, this is yours. If you can''t finish it, there will be more chances for you make amends."


    Huo Shao Ting was a habitual drinker, of course he knew which bottle of Huo Shao Jie''s wine was the most expensive, not bothering with taste but only price.


    Without hesitation, he opened it. Seeing that bottle of wine, Huo Shao Jie felt as if his heart was stabbed viciously with a knife!


    Butpared to big brother''s wrath... he still chose to dissipate the cmity with money.


    However, Huo Shao Ting only poured himself a small cup, giving Huo Shao Jie the rest. Huo Shao Jie felt doomsday approaching.


    "Brother, big brother, can we... drink it in installments?"


    Huo Shao Jie was in anguish, looking at him pitifully.

 Chapter 74: Sleeping in the Same Bed

    <h4>Chapter 74</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting took a sip of wine, sat on the edge of his desk with his legs crossed, and looked at him coldly, his voice dangerously asking: ��What do you think?��


    Huo Shao Jie cried with a sad face, drinking the red wine bottle by bottle resentfully.


    ��Drinking like this...�� Huo Shao Ting frowned slightly, his voice softly murmuring.


    As soon as Huo Shao Jie heard this, the hairs on his body stood on end. He hugged the bottle and drank the red wine like drinking water, finishing most of the bottle in a few gulps.


    Huo Shao Ting was still not satisfied. He opened another bottle and only poured himself a little.


    Huo Shao Jie: ��...Brother, you''re trying to murder me.��


    ��Am I? If something happens to me, why don''t you keep mepany? After all, we are good brothers.��


    Huo Shao Ting raised his eyebrows and looked at him yfully.


    Huo Shao Jie immediately felt tightness down there. He grabbed the wine bottle and drank it all!


    After he finished two bottles of red wine, he staggered tipsily into the bedroom. Only then did Huo Shao Ting put down his ss and walk out.


    Huo Shao Ting walked to the bedroom door, took a few deep breaths before pushing the door open and walking in. This time he did not forget to lock the door.


    Rong Dai had already finished showering and was drying her hair.


    He went to get a hair dryer and stood behind her, his voice gentle: ��Let me do it.��


    Hearing his voice and feeling him get close, Rong Dai tensed her back and gently replied: ��Thank you.��


    Huo Shao Ting didn��t say anything. He gently blew her hair.


    Sensing his rxation, Rong Dai also rxed.


    ��I''ve drawn you a bath. Go soak for a bit. You''ve worked hard these days.�� Rong Dai watched him put away the hair dryer and spoke up.


    Huo Shao Ting turned to look at her. Seeing her sitting hesitantly on the bed, her gaze flickering to the sofa.


    Rong Dai really didn''t want to sleep on the sofa. She had been sleeping on the bed these days. Although Huo Shao Ting hade back twice, he was busy withpany matters in the study untilte at night, so he just slept in the study.


    Apart from that one night of sleeping together, the two had not slept together since.


    What made Rong Dai struggle was that if she suggested sleeping on the sofa after the two were just so emotionally heated, it would seem too melodramatic.


    In her second life, she didn''t want to be as restrained as she was in her previous life, having to be vignt all the time. That kind of life was tiring, really tiring.


    In this life, she just wanted to live ording to her heart and be carefree.


    ��If you''re worried... I''ll sleep in the guest room tonight.�� Not wanting her to feel awkward, he brought it up.


    The chance in the bathroom just now would have happened naturally if not for that damned Huo Shao Jie!


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment. She quickly shook her head, nced at him and quickly lowered her head again. She spoke nervously and a little stuttering: ��No, just... just sleep in the bed.��


    After saying this, she felt her heartbeat elerate again, and the heat that had just receded crawled back onto her cheeks.


    She quickly grabbed the quilt, immediately slid to the other side of the bed, and pulled the quilt over herself with her back to Huo Shao Ting.


    Her whole body was sweating finely from tension, and her hands were drenched in sweat.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her stiff back. Although she was wearing lounge clothes, the soft silk lounge clothes clung alluringly to her delicate body.


    But he was very clear that the chance in the bathroom just now was lost. Although the physical and mental torment made him very ufortable, he was more willing to wait until she was willing.


    He moved closer to her back, reached out and stroked the strands of hair around her temples, his voice gentle and mellow: ��I won''t force you. I have enough patience to wait until you''re ready. Don''t be nervous, just go with the flow.��


    With that said, he lowered his head and lightly kissed her ear, then shifted his body to leave her some space and distance.


    Rong Dai was extremely nervous, struggling internally over whether to agree or not if Huo Shao Ting wanted to be intimate.


    But she didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to be so considerate and respect her feelings.


    That tension gradually disappeared, and her stiff body gradually rxed. Feeling his steady breathing, she turned slightly to nce at his side profile.


    ��Thank you for respecting me, Huo Shao Ting,�� she said in her heart, leaning on the pillow and falling into deep sleep.


    The couple had gone to bed, but someone in the Huo house was unlucky.


    ��Young... Young Master? You''ve been drinking again?��


    Aunt Wang had just finished cleaning and was about to go back to her room to rest when she saw Huo Shao Jie with a flushed face, singing an out of tune song with unclear speech.


    Most importantly, he had stripped himself naked! Only leaving a pair of underwear that was unbearable to look at!


    ��Heehee, let''s, let''s dance!��


    After two bottles of red wine, Huo Shao Jie was dead drunk.


    When others get drunk they either sleep or go on a drunken rampage, but he hadpletely lost his mind!


    Saying so, he pulled Aunt Wang to sing ah-yah incoherently in the living room, treating Aunt Wang like a rag doll, dragging her here and there and spinning in circles.


    Aunt Wang was dizzy from the spinning. Huo Mei Shu and Lu Zheng were awakened by the noise. They walked out and saw Huo Shao Jie''s disgraceful state in the living room. One was gloating while the other was furious.


    ��He''s drinking again?! Uncle Li, Uncle Li!��


    Lu Zheng trotted downstairs to call the butler Uncle Li to hold Huo Shao Jie down on the sofa. Aunt Wang was so tired she stood panting on the side.


    Huo Mei Shu slowly walked downstairs and saw Huo Shao Jie still wanting to dance on the sofa. She took out her phone and started recording a video.


    ��Aunt Wang, go get him sober-up medicine. Tomorrow, move all the liquor from his room to the wine cer and lock it up!��


    Lu Zheng''s face flushed red with anger as she looked at this almost thirty-year-old son, really wanting to give him two ps.


    But Huo Shao Jie was already drunk silly, even if she did p him, he wouldn''t react.


    ��You''re stillughing there, go get your brother a nket!�� Seeing Huo Mei Shuughing, Lu Zheng yelled at her.


    Huo Mei Shu pouted, shrugged, went upstairs to get a thin nket and stood aside watching the flustered three people, saying: ��Mom, if you knew that second brother ruined your chance to hold your grandchild tonight, I think you would definitely make him drink arsenic!��


    Lu Zheng was startled: ��What did you say?��


    Only after Huo Shao Jie quieted down after taking the sober-up medicine did Huo Mei Shu recount what had happened earlier.


    Lu Zheng immediately looked at Huo Shao Jie differently, practically wanting to eat him alive!

 Chapter 75: By That

    <h4>Chapter 75</h4>


    Lu Zheng had always been most worried about Huo Shao Ting over the past few years. Now that he was willing to get married, so many messy things had happened.


    The couple had finally made some progress in their rtionship, but now it was ruined all of a sudden.


    Lu Zheng barely swallowed the anger rising in her throat. After looking around for a few seconds, she grabbed the flowers on the table and fiercely whipped Huo ShaoJie''s butt, who was sleeping on the sofa like a dead pig!


    "I don''t watch over you for a few days and you wreck everything already! You really think I can''t deal with you anymore, don''t you?!"


    Lu Zheng was absolutely furious. Both of them had made her anxious and sleepless. Usually gentle with others, her attack was vicious this time!


    Huo MeiShu, Mrs. Wang and Li Shu were all terribly frightened, watching Lu Zheng whip the flowers around the room. Their hearts jerked with eachsh!


    "Mom! Mom, don''t be angry, calm down, calm down!"


    Huo MeiShu was so scared her face turned pale. She really hadn''t expected such a fierce side from gentle Mother Lu. Seeing Huo ShaoJie''s snake-like waist from the whipping, she quickly stepped forward to stop it.


    Second brother was really miserable tonight...


    Mrs. Wang and Li Shu also reacted and helped pull Lu Zheng away.


    Still panting from anger, Lu Zheng pointed at Huo ShaoJie, sleeping like a pig, and ordered Li Shu: "Li Shu, pack up his luggage and let him stay at a hotel! Nothing but trouble sinceing back! This damned kid is going to anger me to death!"


    With that, she threw the tattered flower stems on Huo ShaoJie.


    Huo MeiShu was terrified. If she had known Mother Lu was so fierce, she would have died before saying anything!


    "Mom, let''s calm down, okay? Anger causes wrinkles. Won''t be beautiful anymore..." She hurriedly led Lu Zheng upstairs, signaling Mrs. Wang and Li Shu to take care of it quickly.


    She was also afraid of this second brother now. But his new drama was about to start soon too, so he wouldn''t be home much longer. Staying at a hotel was safer than facing eldest brother and old mom''sbined assault at home.


    Li Shu quickly followed orders, going upstairs to pack Huo ShaoJie''s things. He and Mrs. Wang half dragged, half carried him out to the car to take him to a hotel.


    ...


    Rong Dai had slept soundlyst night and woke up naturally at dawn. Opening her eyes, she saw Huo Shao Ting sleeping beside her, making her heart beat erratically again.


    She studied the man''s face. He wasn''t as bewitching as the Emperor, but still very pleasing to the eye and a rare beauty.


    "Like what you see?" Huo Shao Ting opened his eyes when she wasn''t paying attention, and asked in a mellow, maic voice.


    Rong Dai''s face grew hot immediately. Beforest night, she would have thought Huo Shao Ting''s words were frivolous.


    But after growing more intimate yesterday, her heart had changed a lot. Looking at him with dark eyes, she nodded seriously: "Handsome."


    "Then take a few more looks. It''ll all be yours from now on." Huo Shao Ting''s voice was gentle. He was obviously teasing her, but his words sounded ambiguous.


    Rong Dai couldn''t helpughing out loud. Sitting up, she threw off the covers, preparing to get out of bed to wash up: "When did you be so boastful?"


    "It''s the truth." Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly and also sat up. Taking advantage of her inattention, he gently pecked her forehead, then got out of bed barefoot to help her into her slippers before scooping her up and carrying her into the bathroom.


    He then went upstairs to the gym to work out, leaving Rong Dai still feeling a little ufortable with their excessive intimacy but not rejecting it.


    She had said she wanted to live in the present, cherish what was in front of her and follow her heart.


    She would be a good wife to Huo Shao Ting this year. That day woulde eventually.


    If she hesitated and struggled so much, their rtionship, finally repaired with the Huo family, would quickly shatter again. And she did have feelings for Huo Shao Ting. She would take this as the first gift to herself for reliving this life.


    With this thought, the heavy anxiety and unease in her heart dissipated. After washing up, she changed into a more proper and dignified outfit. She was going to ask Elder Jiang to teach her acting today.


    She had to learn all these new skills well, only then would she not disappoint the meaning of her reliving and his efforts.


    "I''ll take a shower. Don''t wander around on your own."


    By the time she had changed, Huo Shao Ting had finished his morning exercise. Seeing her making the bed, he said and went into the bathroom.


    Rong Dai obediently listened to him, but seeing Huo Shao Ting emerge half-naked again, water droplets still dripping down his lean, muscr body, every inch was tempting. She couldn''t help averting her eyes, forcing herself to appear calm.


    As ifpletely oblivious, Huo Shao Ting went straight to their walk-in closet and changed into clothes.


    Surprisingly, he wasn''t in a suit today but had changed into more casual wear.


    When the couple went downstairs, Mrs. Wang had breakfast ready as usual, but mother-inw, sister-inw and brother-inw were missing. Rong Dai asked about it.


    Mrs. Wang sighed and recounted what happenedst night.


    Rong Dai was astonished, wide-eyed. This brother-inw...


    Huo Shao Ting, however, remainedposed, as if having expected this would happen.


    "Mistress, you and the young master should eat. The Madam and young miss may sleep in a bit longer."


    Mrs. Wang told her. Rong Dai could only nod.


    "Don''t you need to go to thepany today?" Seeing that Huo Shao Ting didn''t seem ready for work after breakfast, Rong Dai asked.


    "It''s Sunday today. I''ll go with you to see Uncle Jiang." Huo Shao Ting said lightly and picked her up again.


    Rong Dai no longer struggled. Hearing this, her heart blossomed joyfully.


    He was the head of apany. How could he have days off? He was just apanying her to see Elder Jiang. She understood the man''s thoughtfulness.


    In the car, the couple''s hands unconsciously intertwined.


    At this time, Huo ShaoJie, "abandoned by the family"st night,zily woke up in the hotel. The stinging pain in his lower back and butt made him suck in a breath.


    Seeing this wasn''t his room when he came to, he panicked and quickly threw off the covers to check himself. Instant relief not finding anything wrong.


    But what was with the pain in his butt?


    Twisting to look back, seeing faint red welts, his face darkened in fury!


    Who the hell dared whip his butt?!


    Huo ShaoJie grabbed his phone and quickly called Huo MeiShu.


    He remembered offending eldest brotherst night, ruining his business, then drinking two bottles of red wine. After that, he didn''t remember anything.


    Just what had he experiencedst night? The injuries made him think in certain directions, instantly breaking out in a cold sweat on his forehead.


    "Hello..." Huo MeiShu was still half asleep, having spent a long time coaxing old momst night. Drowsy now.


    "MeiShu,st night I..st night did I..." Huo ShaoJie stuttered, too nervous to even get out aplete sentence.


    "Second brother, what is it..."


    "MeiShu, tell me,st night did I...do anything really bad? Was I vited by someone?"


    Huo ShaoJie was anxious and annoyed. If he ever found out who did this, he would flip their roof!

 Chapter 76: Got a few for you.

    <h4>Chapter 76</h4>


    When Huo Mei Shu heard him ask this, she became more awake and opened her eyes to nce at her phone.


    She had a sly smile on her face. While turning on the speakerphone, she searched through her phone for the wonderful video she had recordedst night.


    Last night, she hadn''t expected this Second Brother to end up in such a sorry state. She had to keep this video - such a thrilling piece of footage, she would have to put it to good use.


    "Second brother,st night you..." Huo Mei Shu deliberately drew out her words.


    As soon as Huo Shao Jie heard this, his heart leapt up and the stinging pain in his butt made him even more panicked!


    If he had really lost his virginityst night, he would make sure that person could never have children again!


    "Mei Shu, quickly tell me, don''t joke around with me."


    Hearing the panic in his voice, Huo Mei Shu''s smile deepened.


    "Second brother, you know what you''re like when you''re drunk, right? I don''t need to exin further, do I?"


    Huo Shao Jie felt his hands and feet go cold, and his scalp tingled.


    Could it really be true?


    "Why don''t...I show you something? I''ve made several backup copies for you."


    Huo Mei Shu smirked wickedly, then hung up and sent Huo Shao Jie the video before quickly turning her phone off and pulling up the covers to go back to sleep.


    Huo Shao Jie was filled with trepidation. By the time he had watched the video, his whole body was stiff.


    That really was his own mother! His big brother!


    He had utterly humiliated himself.


    Lying in bed, he was filled with hopeless despair. Just then, Lu Ye happened to call. Huo Shao Jie, with a belly full of grievances and nowhere to vent them, immediately turned Lu Ye into his punching bag.


    Lu Ye had simply wanted to ask about the finalized clothing and props. Although they had already selected them, Huo Shao Jie had said just yesterday that he had even better options. So Lu Ye was just anxiously asking him a few more questions about it.


    What was with this guy, eating gunpowder first thing in the morning?


    "Humph, I can''t be bothered to talk to you. Uncle Jiang secretly came to Jingcheng, so I have to go pay him a visit. I went to a lot of trouble for this drama production."


    Lu Ye gave a cold snort, vexed by Huo Shao Jie''s sudden fiery temper.


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting arrived at Yulou Jinqu, an area of standalone vis with private gardens and a river running through, willows swaying gracefully on both banks, giving an air of tranquil elegance.


    "There are ces this elegant in Jingcheng?"


    Ever since her rebirth, Rong Dai had only seen the hustle and bustle of this modern world, with its crowded streets and towering buildings. A refined, secluded ce like this seemed somewhat out of cepared to the shy exterior.


    "If you like it here, we can buy it. This area was recently developed, away from the city center, but the greenery and environment are well maintained. There are ns to develop many new facilities around here in the future, so property values will continue to rise."


    As soon as Rong Dai said this, Huo Shao Ting immediately responded.


    He didn''t have any particr requirements - the Huo family already owned plenty of properties in Jingcheng, and their old residence wasrge enough for the few of them.


    He also had his own apartment at thepany, where he usually slept more often than not.


    But now, he wanted them to have a home of their own, a home that belonged just to the two of them.


    Previously, he couldn''t understand what it felt like to have amp at home burning just for you. Now it seemed he was starting to grasp that feeling, so he very much wanted a little home of their own.


    Rong Dai had just casually suggested it. She had no idea about real estate in this modern era, and knew buying a house wasn''t as simple as just saying you wanted to buy one.


    Besides, she still owed nearly 2 billion yuan in exorbitant debt. If Huo Shao Ting splurged on buying a house on top of that, she would have no choice but to sell her body to him for life.


    "No, no, no, I was just saying casually."


    She was badly frightened,menting and envying in her heart. As expected, money talks.


    Pennilessness was torturous, even for her, a former empress.


    When would she be able to regain the extravagant lifestyle of flinging money around like dirt that she had in her previous life?


    Seeing her rejection, Huo Shao Ting didn''t push the matter further. He could tell Rong Dai''s momentary panic and unease just now.


    Although he felt a bit let down inside, he had enough patience to wait for her to trust in him and rely on him.


    When the couple arrived at the vi where Jiang Ling was staying, Rong Dai insisted on getting out of the car.


    She had already embarrassed herself in front of her mother-inw and sister-inw, so better to be impolite just that one time. Being rude repeatedly would show she had no manners.


    She still needed to show proper respect in front of elders - others might not care, but she couldn''t lose her own dignity.


    She didn''t want people to see her as frivolous. Behind closed doors, she and Huo Shao Ting could be as intimate as they liked, but in public she had to pay attention to her own conduct.


    This was about giving herself sufficient respect, and giving others a good first impression that she deserved respect.


    Respect yourself before respecting others - this was what her mother in her previous life had taught her.


    It was a pity that in the end, she had failed to respect herself first in front of the Emperor.


    "You''re here."


    Jiang Ling was practicing tai chi in the yard. Seeing the couple arrive so early, and Rong Dai dressed so properly and modestly, his gaze towards her held a bit more approval.


    Some people simply gave extremely good first impressions.


    With Jiang Ling''s experienced eye, he could basically tell at first nce what kind of person someone was.


    This kid has good taste - he found himself an outstanding woman.


    "Good morning, Uncle Jiang." Following the greeting style here, Rong Dai''s every word and action were proper and modest, not frivolous at all.


    "Have a seat first, you two can drink some tea first. This old bag of bones needs to get some exercise in if I want to live a few more years."


    Jiang Ling nodded at them, then went back to practicing tai chi in the yard.


    Huo Shao Ting escorted Rong Dai to sit under the flower arbor in the yard. The housekeeper brought over freshly brewed tea.


    Out of habit, Rong Dai gently sipped the tea and set it down in the manner of her previous life.


    "What''s wrong? Don''t you like this old man''s tea?"


    Noticing Rong Dai''s slight frown, Jiang Ling raised an eyebrow and asked.


    Rong Dai quickly shook her head. "The tea is good, this is excellent Mingqian Longjing, this year''s new tea. Mingqian tea is a rare treasure among green teas."


    "You seem to know a thing or two, go on."


    Jiang Ling was immediately intrigued. Old folks like them loved such nostalgic, ordinary old things.


    Rong Dai felt a bit nervous. This was just habit for her. In her previous life, everything she ate, wore and used was only the best. Even during those ten years imprisoned in the cold pce, she still never deprived herself.


    These things were ingrained in her very bones. It would be difficult for her to change them immediately.


    Sensing her unease, Huo Shao Ting promptly reassured her with a firm gaze.


    Only then did Rong Dai rx slightly and continue speaking: "The Tea ssic records that for the water, use mountain spring water, river water, and well water. Although the water used for this tea is not bad, it is still not the optimal."


    "There is also the temperature - the ''three boils'' mentioned in the Tea ssic refer to the brewing temperature. The water used and temperature are both important factors, the slightest deviation can impact the vor."


    "This is Mingqian tea. Too high a temperature is unsuitable as it will make it bitter and turn the leaves yellow. Once the bitternesses out, the tea''s fragrance is lost."

 Chapter 77: She鈥檚 a Beautiful Piece of Jade

    <h4>Chapter 77</h4>


    "The tea has changed color, bing quite bitter," Rong Dai exined. Her mouth was picky, and she would never eat something again after trying it once if she didn''t like it.


    This was her own upbringing and manners. Consuming something unptable would only harm her body and affect her mood.


    "I''m just showing off my poor skills here, please forgive me for making youugh, Uncle Jiang."


    After Rong Dai spoke, she saw Jiang Ling take a sip of the tea, and she quickly added.


    But this remedy didn''t seem to have much effect. She really shouldn''t have said too much just now.


    Although consuming unpleasant things would make her ufortable, her current situation was precarious. She would have to be more cautious in the future.


    "I think what you said makes a lot of sense. Do you know how to brew tea?" Jiang Ling was a tea expert. Everything Rong Dai had said was spot on.


    This good tea had been ruined, so of course he was unhappy.


    Rong Dai instinctively looked to Huo Shao Ting. She really wasn''t showing off. This had be a habit, and she reacted instinctively.


    Huo Shao Ting still nodded, looking at her with firm and trusting eyes.


    He understood very clearly that even though he gave Rong Dai all the respect and care she needed, some things still required her to fight for herself.


    What he could give her was actually very limited, such as other people''s respect for her.


    Perhaps some people would respect her because of his face, but that would only be temporary. She had to earn these things for herself.


    He also wanted to know how much more there was about his wife that he didn''t know.


    Over the past few days, he had discovered that the more he got close to her and peeled back ayer of her secrets, there would be yet anotheryer.


    She herself was like a treasure, attracting people. As her husband, he had the right and duty to get to know his wife well.


    Rong Dai could only agree. Who else could she me for the trouble caused by her mouth?


    "Then let''s go inside," Jiang Ling said, walking ahead first.


    Once inside, the tea table in the living room was already set with a tea set, matching purple y teaware, and a cab full of tea leaves.


    Rong Dai had an eye for quality. There were many treasures in that tea cab. If sold, they could support an ordinary family to live in luxury for a lifetime.


    "Just brew the Ming Qian tea. I''ll be back down shortly," Jiang Ling pointed at the tea cab.


    Rong Dai nodded. She was in no hurry to take the tea. Instead, she first asked the housekeeper what water she had used earlier. After searching the house, only bottled mineral water was avable.


    The tap water was dead water, useless for brewing tea.


    She took the tea leaves and sat down, boiled the water, and washed the tea set thoroughly before starting to brew the tea.


    As Jiang Ling watched her skilled movements, modest manners, and focused expression while brewing tea, the approval in his old eyes grew even more intense. He couldn''t help but nce at Huo Shao Ting.


    He had originally wanted to ask Huo Shao Ting some questions. He wasn''t interested in the news while away from Shenjing, but now that he was back, some matters were hard to remain ignorant about.


    For example, Rong Dai''s affairs. Although the trending topics had been taken down, many people online were still talking about it enthusiastically.


    But Huo Shao Ting''s eyes werepletely focused on watching Rong Dai, ignoring him entirely, which irritated him as he sat fanning himself in the solid wood chair.


    Rong Dai''s tea brewing skills came from the teachings of her mother in her previous life.


    In her previous life, her mother was originally from a prestigious family, and the Rong family were meritorious aristocrats. They put tremendous effort into educating their children.


    The prosperity of a family depended entirely on the younger generation, so thepetition between families involved not just power and wealth, but also the upbringing and manners of their offspring.


    What good was being well-read and aplished? In her previous life she had mastered everything, studying under hundreds of top masters in every field for over a decade, day after day.


    When brewing tea in her previous life, she was required not only to produce a clear, appealing tea liquor, but also the optimal vor. The daughters of elite families were not the only ones with picky taste buds. They were all like that.


    Moreover, when brewing tea, she had to pay attention to smooth movements, modest and elegant manners��every action was meticulously cultivated.


    Although Huo Shao Ting did not study such things, he could discern that her tea brewing skills could be considered master ss.


    Jiang Ling was a tea connoisseur who sought out good tea and skilled tea masters wherever they could be found.


    After retirement, he had basically traveled everywhere, but even he found Rong Dai''s calm, graceful, and elegant tea brewing pleasing to watch.


    "Uncle Jiang, please excuse any ws and have a taste," she offered the first brew to Jiang Ling first, as courtesy demanded.


    Jiang Ling did not stand on ceremony either, picking up the teacup and gently sipping a small mouthful. His eyes instantly brightened.


    The appreciation of tea emphasized the right state of mind and a tranquil environment, with the tea itself secondary.


    "I won''t believe you achieved this skill in just over ten years," he said, putting down the teacup. His gaze toward her had changed a lot.


    At his level of mastery, even if he acquiesced to someone''s request, he might not truly devote himself fully.


    At his stage, he had his own pride.


    So when he first met Rong Dai, he had merely been polite for Huo Shao Ting''s sake.


    If she herself had no talents or skills, he would have had no patience to teach her, lest it damaged his reputation.


    "Uncle Jiang tters me. I''ve just casually read some books and learned a little on my own during my free time," Rong Dai said modestly.


    While she spoke humbly, she knew Jiang Ling was right.


    To be precise, from the time she started learning to brew tea until the day she died in her previous life, she had always been learning, able to discern every tiny w. This skill could not be achieved in just over ten years��it had taken her a lifetime to acquire.


    She offered the second brew to Huo Shao Ting and took a sip herself.


    "If Uncle Jiang had fresh, pure water here, the vor of this Ming Qian tea could be elevated another level. The water here is slightly harsh, so although the tea is strong, there is still a hint of harshness."


    "Hahaha! To be able to drink tea brewed by your skilled hand is bliss!" Jiang Lingughed heartily, clearly in an excellent mood.


    But he still did not intend to immediately teach Rong Dai acting. There was a saying that it took three years for a master to finish grinding an apprentice.


    Let alone, she had just started following him today. How could Jiang Ling possibly agree to teach her so readily?


    Rong Dai also understood this principle, and did not mention learning acting. Instead, she discussed tea with him.


    Sitting in the chair, there were moments when Huo Shao Ting felt there was some distance between them. He actually felt as if she was speaking a foreignnguage.


    If Assistant Zhang were here, he would surely be shocked to know of such thoughts from Huo Shao Ting, because whether in public or within the Huo n, the name Huo Shao Ting was like that of a deity.


    Watching her speak artictely and confidently, with brilliance emanating from the inside out, Huo Shao Ting felt like she was a beautiful jade��even if deliberately obscured, its radiance could not be blocked, attracting people irresistibly.

 Chapter 78: Embroidery order

    <h4>Chapter 78</h4>


    For three consecutive days at Jiang Ling''s ce, Rong Dai did not learn anything about acting.


    On the first day, the two drank tea at Jiang''s home until they nearly fainted.


    On the second day, Rong Dai cooked. Not proficient with modern cookware and someplex dishes, she opted for simple handmade noodles.


    On the third day, they yed chess, one of Jiang Ling''s three hobbies - drinking tea, ying chess, and Tai Chi.


    Huo Shao Ting also apanied her for three days. Over time, the two got along better, and he discovered Rong Dai''s excellent qualities.


    Drinking tea and ying chess require cultivated temperament and skill. She was very patient andposed.


    In this day and age, unless it''s one''s profession ores from an affluent family background, few young people have the patience to learn such time and energy consuming practices. Huo Shao Ting knew Jiang Ling''s mastery of tea and chess, though the old fellow only started in middle age, he had decades of experience.


    Yesterday Rong Dai unexpectedly beat him, piquing his curiosity about his wife.


    "Shao Ting, I can go myself today. Thepany still needs you for many things. With a driver to take me, Uncle Jiang won''t make things difficult for me, so don''t worry."


    After getting dressed, Rong Dai thought this was already the fourth day.


    Him apanying her on the first day made sense since it was the weekend. But going with her for three consecutive days made Rong Dai feel like "the emperor neglecting court duties". Ifpany matters were dyed further because of her, she would have no defense.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her and nodded, naturally pecking her forehead.


    He wanted to get closer to her, little by little, to understand everything about her.


    She was like a hidden treasure, revealing new mysteries as eachyer was uncovered.


    But he also knew not to rush this. She no longer rejected his closeness, he could feel her changing.


    He had the patience to wait for her.


    "Okay, I''ll pick you up after work, then we''ll go for dinner."


    Over the past three days, a tacit understanding had formed between them. The initial ardor and excitement still lingered but was less intense.


    "Okay." She nodded. Her leg was improving with daily therapy and walking was no longer an issue, just no running or jumping yet, or walking too long, or it would still hurt.


    The couple went downstairs to find Lu Zheng and Huo Mei Shu already seated at the dining table. Huo Mei Shu looked at Rong Dai with unconcealed amusement.


    This embarrassed Rong Dai a little but she sat down calmly.


    Lu Zheng had witnessed the changes between the two clearly these days and felt relieved.


    "Sister-inw, I have something to tell you."


    As Rong Dai sat down, Huo Mei Shu looked at her mysteriously and said.


    Lu Zheng also looked over and took out the handkerchief Rong Dai had embroidered to show her, "Did you really embroider this yourself?"


    The exquisite embroidery astonished Lu Zheng. At first, she worried Rong Dai had spent a fortune somewhere to curry favor.


    This was pure hand embroidery, different from machine work.


    So she specifically asked experts, even sisters trained together had slight differences.


    But she asked many to examine it and no one in the capital had such skills, at least ten to twenty years were needed.


    Even if someone did, they would have reputation in the industry, custom works but not random pieces like this.


    Rong Dai nodded, thinking Lu Zheng disliked it, and quickly exined, "If mother doesn''t like it, I''ll embroider another."


    "It''s not that, but your embroidery skill..." Lu Zheng caressed the stitches, feeling incredulous.


    Initially displeased with this daughter-inw, Lu Zheng had acquiesced since her husband and son did not object.


    After recent events, she was even more unhappy but bore it for her son''s sake.


    But Rong Dai''s changes were noticeable, not just to her son and daughter. Though unexpected, it was good.


    Seeing her hesitation, Rong Dai thought there was an issue with her work and anxiously asked, "Mother, where did I embroider poorly?"


    Although Huo Mei Shu chose fine threads, selection depended on the fabric, affecting thickness and texture.


    "Sister-inw, it''s that your skills are too good. Remember you said you felt bored? So mom got you a job, but you''ve been busy these days."


    Anxious, Huo Mei Shu jumped in to exin.


    Only then did Rong Dai rx, sincerely thanking Lu Zheng, "Thank you, mother."


    Lu Zheng smiled, sensing Rong Dai''s respect.


    She didn''t expect a daughter-inw like her daughter. Another Huo Mei Shu would give her a headache, her two sons already worried her enough.


    "It''s good you have this skill. The Huo family won''t let you suffer, but times have changed. Unlike the old thinking, a woman who only serves her husband and teaches her children is backward."


    Lu Zheng said slowly, having Wang Ma take the handkerchief for safekeeping.


    "It''s an old friend''s mother-inw''s 70th birthday in two months. The olddy dislikes extravagance and expensive things. She wants something hand embroidered, old folks like such traditional gifts."


    Rong Dai considered, then nodded, "Two months is rushed but a longevity quilt is doable."


    "Make a quilt?" Huo Mei Shu was surprised by her sister-inw''s novel idea.


    Rong Dai didn''t think it strange. In her previous life, she had made one for the Empress Dowager, though due to the Emperor, Her Majesty could only treat her dutifully, never using that quilt.


    "It''s hot now, a thin quilt is okay." She earnestly answered Huo Mei Shu.


    "A quilt is good, practical for an elderlydy." Lu Zheng fully agreed.


    Sitting there listening to the women converse made Huo Shao Ting feel like an audience.


    Since when could she embroider?


    Could his wife be aplished in the four arts?


    "No, Rong Dai needs to study with Uncle Jiang these days. No time for this, embroidery strains the eyes."


    He promptly declined for Rong Dai. He said she should strive for some things herself but not work so hard.

 Chapter 79: Offend Someone

    <h4>Chapter 79</h4>


    When Lu Zheng heard her son refuse, although she didn''t dare say anything, her expression was still not very good. She had already agreed to the other party, so if she went back on her word now, what would that make her?


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly. She knew Huo Shao Ting was afraid she would tire herself out, but she couldn''t give up on this job either.


    Besides, this was the first thing her mother-inw had asked her to do. If she backed out before even starting, wouldn''t that be digging a pit for herself?


    "Shao Ting, my leg injury is not a big deal anymore. It''s just a thin quilt. Two months is plenty of time. Also, I''m studying fashion design. Making clothes myself is inevitable in the future."


    "I''m currently on leave from school, and I don''t n on staying in the entertainment industry long-term either. After finishing this drama, I''ll retire. I don''t want to lose my original profession after retiring from acting. Consider this practice for me."


    She smiled at Huo Shao Ting, her gaze shifting between Lu Zheng and Huo Mei Shu.


    Although the Huo family was not as strict as other prestigious families, she had already promised the olddy this was what she truly wanted to do.


    She had lived a life of luxury and nobility in her past life. This life, she only wanted to live a in and simple life, sipping tea while watching the sunset, growing some flowers and nts, living the carefree life of fields and cranes.


    Besides, she was not Huo Shao Jie. The Huo family could let Huo Shao Jie enter the entertainment industry because there was already a CEO in the family. They didn''t need another CEO.


    Although women were given more tolerance in this life, inequality still existed. The eptance and understanding towards women was still limited.


    She was not cowardly orpromising with life. She just didn''t want to spend her time changing people''s ingrained patriarchal thinking.


    It was because she didn''t abide by the rules that restricted women in her past life that she repeatedly "did her own thing". In the end, it brought the Rong family to ruin.


    When it came down to it, she was at fault, but the times had determined certain cause and effect.


    She didn''t want to challenge the ignorance of foolish people again. She just wanted to live her own life well.


    Hearing her words, Lu Zheng''s expression improved. Huo Mei Shu was a bit surprised that Rong Dai didn''t n on staying in the entertainment industry long-term.


    Seeing the look in her eyes clearly, Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened.


    She could always analyze things thoroughly. He didn''t want her to be upset or put in a difficult position.


    "Then we''ll have to adjust your schedule at Uncle Jiang''s ce. I''ll have someone make a timetable for you."


    Since she wanted to do it, he would arrange things well for her so she could wholeheartedly do what she wanted without worrying about other matters.


    "Okay." Rong Dai nodded. Huo Shao Ting''s understanding and amodation made her feel assured and warm.


    "You two are so lovey-dovey this early in the morning. I can''t stand the sourness!"


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help shuddering all over. Hugging herself, she unceremoniouslyined about the two.


    "So disrespectful. He''s your eldest brother and sister-inw."


    Lu Zheng was happy inside. Rong Dai was sensible and considerate in her words and actions. She didn''t cause any conflict between mother and son, nor break her promise.


    Perhaps she really should look at this daughter-inw in a new light.


    Seeing her mother-inw happy, Rong Dai felt at ease inside. After breakfast, everyone went to do their own thing.


    Although Huo Shao Ting had agreed not to apany her to Uncle Jiang''s, he still dropped her off at the Jade Mansion first.


    "I drove halfway across the city to send you here. Don''t I deserve some indication of your feelings?"


    Seeing her about to get out of the car, Huo Shao Ting felt veryfortable with how things had been between them the past few days. But he still wanted more, so he asked jokingly.


    Rong Dai was startled, then realized what he meant. Her ear tips couldn''t help turning red.


    Then she swiftly moved closer to Huo Shao Ting and lightly pecked his lips before quickly getting out of the car and heading for the vi, her heart racing wildly.


    This was already the second time she had been so bold. Rong Dai helplessly sighed at her own change inside.


    But she was delighted by this change. She was happy with every change in herself.


    It meant she was graduallying to terms with her past and weing her new life.


    Because of her actions, Huo Shao Ting''s heart soared. Seeing her flee, the corners of his mouth curved up as his eyes smiled.


    When he arrived at thepany, his assistant Zhang stared at him like he was a ghost. How could the usually cold and stern CEO be smiling so early in the morning?


    That smile...it was easy for one to imagine the CEO had encountered a stroke of luck in rtionships.


    After slowly calming herself, Rong Dai entered the vi. As usual, Uncle Jiang was practicing tai chi in the yard. Seeing her arrive, he ended his routine and let her go in first.


    Looking at the breakfast the housekeeper had prepared, it wasn''t bad, but she had also learned a lot about Western food culture online these days.


    This was an era where different national cultures prospered and integrated. These cuisines all had their own characteristics, but she was genuinely someone from ancient times.


    Comparatively, she still preferred Chinese cuisine. Seeing the milk and sandwiches the housekeeper had prepared, although there was also freshly cooked rice porridge, food was heaven for people.


    Especially breakfast. It was the most precious meal.


    In her past life, a single breakfast with the Emperor would cost at least a hundred taels of gold. The variety of dishes wasprehensive and abundant.


    When the Shangyuan country prospered, a hundred taels of gold for the Emperor''s breakfast was normal. For special asions, the expense was even greater.


    She still remembered when she entered the pce as Empress, the Empress Dowager was still around then. Her demands for meals were even more particr.


    The imperial chefs had to get up in the middle of the night to think it over. Even a bowl of red date and lily soup took effort.


    It was also because she valued food so much that the Empress Dowager lived until ny years old in her past life.


    Since she was here to learn skills from Uncle Jiang, she should have the proper student attitude instead of just relying on the convenience Huo Shao Ting brought her.


    "Are there any other ingredients at home?" she asked the housekeeper.


    The nearly fifty-year-old woman was startled by her question. Then she led her to the kitchen to see the ingredients.


    "There''s just these. Old Master Jiang likes fresh food. These were all bought this morning. Old Master has been eating like this the past few days. Is there a problem?"


    The housekeeper asked her. She was ufortable with Rong Dai''s actions of "meddling".


    Because of the tea incident earlier, she couldn''t even touch those expensive teas now. And now Rong Dai was finding fault with the breakfast she prepared. Of course she wasn''t happy, but didn''t dare show it.


    "No problem at all. You did very well. It''s just that Uncle Jiang is getting on in years. Aging is the natural way of things. So breakfast requirements should be more meticulous for his health and to nourish his stomach and intestines."


    "You can go out first. Clean up the breakfast outside and have Uncle Jiang wait a bit. I''ll make something for him."


    As Rong Dai spoke, she started taking ingredients.


    The Empress Dowager didn''t like her much in her past life, but the Empress Grand Dowager was a very kind elderly woman. When she was isted and helpless in the imperial harem, the old woman had protected her a few times. She also learned a couple dishes from the imperial chefs to please the Empress Grand Dowager. It just so happened she could put those skills to use now.

 Chapter 80: Eternal Love

    <h4>Chapter 80</h4>


    These past few days of being "tempered" by Elder Jiang, she also became fairly familiar with the electrical appliances in the kitchen and wasn''t as clumsy when using them anymore.


    She made bird''s nest and white duck, five twisted chicken shreds, chicken noodle soup, a te of stir-fried seasonal vegetables, and cut up some fruit. She also carefully simmered the goat''s milk.


    Although this was nothingpared to the extravagance of the pce, for this time period, it was already quite plentiful.


    Fortunately, the ingredients were all readily avable and already prepped, and with the help of these advanced metal lumps, the time she spent cooking was greatly reduced.


    Seeing the neatly arranged breakfast spread with such colorful dishes, Jiang Ling couldn''t help but light up. He immediately sat down and tried the vors.


    "Delicious!" With the first sip of chicken noodle soup, the rich aroma alone made one''s appetite surge wildly.


    "Although you''re still hale and hearty, health is cultivated. Breakfast is especially important. Isn''t there a saying, ''Morning gold, afternoon pig''s stomach, evening begging''?"


    After wiping her hands dry, Rong Dai sat down as well, smiling as she spoke.


    "Although the nanny''s breakfasts are nutritious, for your digestive system, these hot and nutritionally bnced meals are more suited to your stomach and intestines."


    "Not bad, that brat Xiaoti is lucky to have married you. You''ll be making me breakfast these next few days as tuition, since I don''te cheap as a teacher."


    Jiang Ling said with augh, eating up all of the breakfast Rong Dai had prepared.


    Rong Dai had thought she made more than enough, she didn''t expect Elder Jiang to have such a hearty appetite that he finished it all.


    "These are things a student should do," she said with a smile.


    She also had selfish motives for doing this. Having spent many years in the imperial harem, she was extremely adept at the methods of pleasing elders.


    Although she didn''t n on developing an entertainment career, she would still earnestly learn the things she should.


    Do it well, or don''t do it at all.


    Satisfied with being full from the meal, Jiang Ling was very pleased with Rong Dai''s attitude. Today was the fourth day, and he didn''t n on making things difficult for Rong Dai. He started imparting acting experiences and techniques to her.


    "Take a look through these works, you can learn a lot. No matter how much you listen and watch, nothingpares to seeing it in person. I still have a few old fellows shooting films in Shenjing, let''s go visit the crew tomorrow after you change your outfit."


    After a day of teaching, Jiang Ling was very satisfied with Rong Dai''s serious learning attitude. After assigning her homework, he exhorted her again.


    Rong Dai carefully took note of everything, and Huo Shao Ting''s car had already arrived on time outside.


    "Does this brat really think I have nothing better to do?"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting arrive so punctually, Jiang Ling couldn''t help but say this sentence. He had hoped to have Rong Dai demonstrate her skills again, that breakfast today left him craving more.


    "Uncle Jiang, Shao Ting is only so concerned because of the incident some time ago. Please don''t take it to heart," Rong Dai hurriedly exined with a smile when she sensed the slight resentment in his tone.


    "Alright, hurry up and go, I''m looking forward to some peace and quiet now," Jiang Ling waved them off. Of course he could tell Rong Dai was speaking up for Huo Shao Ting; even though it had only been a few days, he was already quite pleased with this student.


    "Then Rong Dai will take her leave first. I wille bother you again tomorrow, Uncle Jiang," she said with a slight bow. Huo Shao Ting had already walked over to her.


    Jiang Ling waved them off, then walked into the house with his hands behind his back.


    "The restaurant I booked is a bit far, you can rest in the car on the way there," Huo Shao Ting considerately took her bag from her while holding her hand and walking over, speaking gently.


    Rong Dai shook her head. "It''s fine, I''m not that tired. Uncle Jiang taught very well."


    She truly wasn''t tired. These things were fresh to her, so of course learning them wasn''t tiring.


    When the couple arrived at the restaurant, Rong Dai discovered it was another different restaurant.


    "This is a French restaurant. You can try more different dishes to aid your culinary skills," Huo Shao Ting gave her a perfect excuse.


    Rong Dai felt a warmth in her heart. After what she saidst time, his thoughtfulness gave her inexplicable peace of mind, and she also understood his intentions.


    After the dinner, the space between the two felt much closer. This was a very romantic restaurant, with independent rooms.


    After eating, the two sat together on the sofa looking out at the prosperous Shenjing nightscape outside, with piano music ying in the room.


    Such cozy enjoyment made Rong Dai very rxed,zily leaning against him without the previous shyness and awkwardness.


    Huo Shao Ting''s broad hand gently caressed her hair. The fullness in his heart was indescribable.


    This must be what peaceful times are like.


    Pleasant times always pass quickly, especially when with someone you love.


    Rong Dai still had in mind what mother-inw said to her earlier. The two left the restaurant, and when they passed by a flower shop, Huo Shao Ting had the driver stop. He went in to buy her a bouquet of flowers.


    "They''re out of red roses, these are lcs. I will make it up to you next time."


    Huo Shao Ting held out the strongly fragrant lc bouquet to her. Rong Dai was slightly surprised as she epted them. The ways men and women expressed affection were a bit different from her previous world.


    Giving a woman flowers was one of the mostmon ways.


    "Thank you, I really like them." She gently sniffed them. She liked all kinds of flowers and nts. Their pleasant fragrance could keep one in high spirits.


    "I''m sorry, I haven''t given you anything before this." Huo Shao Ting sat beside her, his eyes showing some self-reproach.


    Rong Dai held the flowers, looking at him brightly. Her smile was still gentle as she said, "You don''t need to me yourself like this. The sentiment behind rituals is certainly important, but I care more about how we feel."


    Huo Shao Ting gripped her hand tighter. He shouldn''t have been so cold before, he should have noticed her troubles in time and given her warmth and safety.


    "Do you know the meaning behind lcs? It''s eternal love, not just roses can represent love the best." She exined to him with a smile.


    This was the first gift she had received from him since her rebirth. The gift was small, but the sentiment was heavy.


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead. The couple returned to the Huo residence and saw Lu Zheng with a worried expression.


    "Mother, did something happen?" Rong Dai asked first. She was very concerned that the mother-daughter rtionship they had just mended would shatter again.


    "Meishu has been arguing with someone in her room since this afternoon. She even smashed her zither and didn''t eat dinner," Lu Zheng said anxiously. Her three children all gave her much to worry about, even though they were outstanding.


    Rong Dai handed the flowers to Huo Shao Ting for him to take upstairs first. She went over to help Lu Zheng sit down.


    She recalled Little Sister had told her before that she was learning ssical music and preparing to study abroad. She had likely encountered some difficult issue.


    "Mother, don''t worry for now. We''ll go see what''s happening in a bit, it''s gettingte and you should rest early."

 Chapter 81: Don鈥檛 Feel Indebted to Me

    <h4>Chapter 81</h4>


    After calming her mother-inw down, Rong Dai went back to her room.


    Huo Shao Ting had already put the lc flowers in a vase in the room.


    "What''s wrong with Mom?"


    Seeing here in, he asked after arranging the fresh flowers.


    Rong Dai sighed lightly. She didn''t really want to get involved in this kind of thing.


    Because if it wasn''t handled well, it would be very easy to offend her mother-inw, and their budding rtionship would be ruined.


    "She said Mei Shu threw a tantrum in her room today, didn''t eat dinner, and smashed her piano."


    "Is it because she ran into some problem with studying abroad?"


    She didn''t really understand the difficulties of education in this era. Since she had promised her mother-inw this matter, she had to follow through.


    Huo Shao Ting shook his head: "That''s not it. Don''t worry too much about this. Mei Shu has always had that temperament, liking to struggle with herself."


    Rong Dai really wanted to wash her hands of this!


    Although her rtionship with her sister-inw had improved over this period, she didn''t think her sister-inw would be happy to let her intervene in her life.


    To her sister-inw, she was merely a sister-inw.


    The only reason she was so good to Rong Dai was because of Huo Shao Ting.


    She was very clear about her position in the Huo family. It had not reached the point of intimacy where she could be one of them.


    If she didn''t handle this well, she would offend either her sister-inw or mother-inw.


    She shouldn''t have said too much just now. Her careless words had dug a pit for herself.


    It waspletely different whether Huo Shao Ting or she spoke to Mei Shu.


    The human heart was something she didn''t dare challenge.


    The uncertainty was too great.


    If she wasn''t Huo Shao Ting''s wife, if Huo Shao Ting did this, Mei Shu would definitely feel that this elder brother loved and protected her very much.


    But now in terms of blood rtionship, she was an outsider to this family.


    If Huo Shao Ting still did this, it wouldn''t be surprising for Mei Shu to resent her.


    "I''ll go make her something to eat in a bit, and see if she''s run into any problems."


    "Or... why don''t youe with me? You''re her elder brother, your words will be more effective than mine."


    She looked up at him as she sat on the sofa, blinking her eyes charmingly and softly, making it impossible to refuse her.


    A man as astute as Huo Shao Ting could see through her little scheme in an instant.


    He couldn''t help feeling a little vexed in his heart, but even more heartache.


    She had to be so careful and cautious about so many things in this family.


    He felt heartache over her prudence��it meant he hadn''t done well enough.


    "There are frozen dumplings in the fridge. I''ll go cook her a bowl."


    "You''ve done a lot of walking today, rest well first, and don''t worry about anything else."


    He bent down to steal a kiss on her cheek, speaking to her gently.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly. What kind of elder brother was this? Sending her away with just a bowl of frozen dumplings.


    If Mei Shu knew they went to eat French cuisine, and her dear elder brother just gave her a bowl of frozen dumplings, wouldn''t she resent Rong Dai?


    The human heart was something she didn''t dare challenge.


    The uncertainty was too great.


    With that, the husband and wife went into the kitchen.


    Rong Dai intended to cook bird''s nest soup, adding a few Chinese wolfberries, and simmering it carefully.


    She also made juicy pork dumplings, preparing the ingredients well until the rich soup aroma filled the entire kitchen.


    Huo Shao Ting wasn''t actually much help beside her. He just couldn''t help wanting to eat when he smelled the aroma.


    After eating the meals she had cooked a few times, Huo Shao Ting felt that his pte would be even more discerning in the future.


    "She can''t finish this much." He couldn''t help but say.


    Rong Dai turned her head to nce at him, unable to hold back a smile. "I see someone''s got a craving."


    Shedled some into a small bowl for him and put it on the countertop. "Be careful, it''s hot. You ate a lot tonight."


    "Eating too full at night isn''t good for the digestive system. Just try the taste. I''ll make it again next time if you want to eat it."


    In her previous life, she had learned a lot of cooking skills from the imperial chefs. In the boring and depressing harem, preparing ingredients helped distract her mind, so she got addicted to learning.


    She hadn''t expected those skills woulde in handy now. What she had learned in her previous life, she seldom got to use. But here, it had been a huge help to her.


    Huo Shao Ting paid her no mind. He bent over and started eating right there at the countertop.


    "That girl is lucky." After a few dumplings, his words were a little sour.


    Rong Dai didn''t reply. They were just a few dumplings. Was it worth being jealous over?


    "Bring some to your mother. She''s worried about Mei Shu and probably won''t be able to sleep tonight."


    Shedled out a bowlful of the bird''s nest soup and tasted it with a spoon.


    After confirming there were no issues, she ced the soup on a tray along with another clean spoon, instructing him as she did so.


    No one else dared order Huo Shao Ting around, but with just this soft word from Rong Dai, he obeyed.


    When he went out, Rong Daidled out more bird''s nest soup and dumplings, waiting for Huo Shao Ting toe back down and bring it up to his sister.


    Although her foot injury was mostly healed, she still couldn''t walk too strenuously.


    Lu Zheng couldn''t sleep at all in her room. Hearing the knock, she got up to open the door.


    Seeing it was Huo Shao Ting, she was stunned at first, feeling very surprised.


    She had tried every way to please and show concern for this eldest son, but he didn''t buy it at all. Over time she was at a loss over what to do, and could only anxiously agonize in her heart.


    "Rong Dai stewed this. Eat it and sleep early."


    Huo Shao Ting only revealed his gentle, warm side in front of Rong Dai. Even with his own mother, he was still as cold as ever.


    Lu Zheng stared nkly at the bird''s nest soup he had brought in and ced on the table, her eyes instantly turning red.


    In all these years, she felt the most guilty towards this eldest son.


    It was so rare for him to say a sentence to her usually. Yet today he had taken the initiative to bring her something. She was emotional and conflicted.


    Huo Shao Ting pursed his lips tightly. Beforeing out, he had paused in his steps.


    He tilted his head slightly, the corner of his eye ncing at Lu Zheng. With his back to her he said in a somewhat icy tone: "You don''t have to always feel you owe me anything. I''m fine now."


    Having said that, he strode downstairs.


    Lu Zheng watched his retreating figure nkly, unable to hold back covering her mouth as she wept.


    How could she not feel guilty?


    In all these years, the conversations between mother and son could be counted on one hand.


    He was so cold towards everyone, and it was all her fault!

 Chapter 82: The Sister-in-law Affair

    <h4>Chapter 82</h4>


    ��Did I disturb mom?��


    Seeing hime back, Rong Dai asked.


    He shook his head, his expression a little strange, and Rong Dai immediately became nervous, thinking it was because his mother was dissatisfied.


    ��Did it not suit mom''s taste?��


    Seeing her nervous, he looked at her, ��You did very well. You''re my wife, even if you want to please someone, you only need to please me. You don''t need to deliberately try to please anyone else in the family.��


    Although Rong Dai''s heart was warmed that he said this, given her current situation, it would be difficult to do so.


    ��Then what''s... wrong with you?�� After interacting with him for so many days, she could basically guess what was causing even a subtle change in his expression.


    But he had just gone up to deliver a bowl of wonton soup, so how could his expression have changed so much in that short time?


    ��I''ll tell you about this slowly when I have time. There are some things...I don''t really know how to deal with.��


    He said seriously looking at her.


    After so many years, he was of course aware of what his mother had done for him. It was just that over the years, he had also gotten used to being alone.


    He was very surprised that Rong Dai could enter his world, so he cherished her even more.


    Over the years, his mind had been focused on work, so there were inevitable downsides, and he no longer knew how to interact with his family.


    Rong Dai was a little startled, because it didn''t seem like the kind of thing he would say.


    But she didn''t press him further, only held his hand gently and said earnestly, ��It''s okay. Remember I''m by your side. You''re not alone, Shao Ting.��


    Even in her past life when he was the Emperor, there were still problems he couldn''t solve. How much more so in this modern era which was no longer an imperial era. There would naturally be many difficult issues.


    The husband and wife then went upstairs carrying the bird''s nest soup and wontons and knocked on Huo Mei Shu''s door. Before Rong Dai could say anything, she heard Huo Mei Shu''s irritated voice, "I already said I won''t eat! I won''t eat, I just won''t eat..."


    "Huo Mei Shu, my wife worked hard to make this. How dare you speak to her in that manner?"


    Before she could finish speaking, Huo Shao Ting''s icy cold and threatening voice exploded outside the door, startling Huo Mei Shu so much her back went cold. She hurriedly rushed to open the door.


    Standing on this side, Rong Dai almost wanted to hold her forehead in exasperation. Was he trying to get her into trouble or help her?


    Which brother threatens his own sister like that?


    "Big brother, sister-inw, I didn''t know it was you. I thought it was mom..."


    Although Huo Mei Shu respected Huo Shao Ting, she also feared him. Her tone immediately lost its boldness from earlier.


    Seeing her nervousness, Rong Dai had originally wanted Huo Shao Ting to cate her as well, but that was clearly impossible given the situation.


    She took the tray from Huo Shao Ting''s hands, gently reminding him, "Shao Ting, don''t you still havepany matters to deal with? Go take care of that first. I''ll chat with Mei Shu."


    As she said this, she blinked at him.


    Huo Shao Ting naturally understood her meaning. He felt a little conflicted inside.


    No one had ever dared to order him like this before. She was the first, but this feeling...was a bit wonderful.


    If Special Assistant Zhang were here, he would probably vomit blood and die from the horror of experiencing beingmanded by the CEO.


    "Go rest early. Staying upte isn''t good for you." Huo Shao Ting nodded. He did indeed have some things to take care of. He would never leave managing Rong Dai''s schedule to others. Of course he had to handle his wife''s matters himself.


    "Sister-inw...you''re amazing! You can actually order my big brother around. He''s only ever been the one ordering others!"


    Huo Mei Shu watched Huo Shao Ting obediently leave,pletely stunned. She turned back and gave Rong Dai a big thumbs up, eyes full of admiration.


    Rong Dai smiled, "He really does have things to take care of. How could I order him around?"


    Huo Mei Shu saw through her but didn''t say anything. Smelling the aroma of the wontons wafting out, her stomach very uncooperatively growled loudly.


    "Did you really make this yourself? It''s more delicious than the restaurant''s!"


    Huo Mei Shu was starving. As soon as the wonton entered her mouth, she felt the taste of happiness taking flight. She asked Rong Dai with wontons still in her mouth.


    Rong Dai nodded and squatted down in front of the guqin that had been thrown on the floor. She picked it up and ced it back on the guqin stand.


    "Such a fine guqin, how could you bear to throw it? It''s a bit of a pity."


    Huo Mei Shu viciously bit into a wonton, anger and grievance immediately appearing on her face as she red at the guqin as if it were her enemy!


    "I won''t just throw it, I''ll pack it up and mail it back to that cheap woman!"


    Hearing this, Rong Dai felt this matter was not simple. She sat down across from Huo Mei Shu and waited for her to finish eating.


    "Feel better now?" Seeing Huo Mei Shu eat contentedly, she gently asked.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, looking at her with shining eyes, "Sister-inw, your cooking skills are too amazing. Not only embroidery but cooking so deliciously too."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. There was still much more she could do. Who told her to be a well-educated youngdy from a prestigious family in her past life, yet was foolishly tricked and forced to learn cooking as well.


    "Let''s not talk about me. Your mother has been worried about you all day. If it''s convenient, could you tell me what happened?"


    She tentatively asked.


    With her stomach full, Huo Mei Shu''s anger had lessened somewhat. She got up and took out a handwritten musical score, then flipped through her phone to pull up a new song to show Rong Dai the sheet music.


    Rong Dai was skilled in the six arts. Although the notation was different from her past life, looking at the same symbols, she could still makeparisons.


    "This...seems to be the same song, just with some minor modifications made in parts of the mobile phone version."


    "This was a close girlfriend from my conservatory, no, now she''s a cheap woman! I wrote this song and only showed it to her, but shepletely giarized it!"


    "This guqin was a gift from her. Now just looking at it makes me nauseous! To think I even helped her so many times! She actually dared to use me like this!"


    Huo Mei Shu was nearly about to explode with rage, her face ashen.


    Rong Dai understood after listening. Someone had stolen her musical score and published it as their own. No wonder she was so angry. If it had happened to herself, she would also be furious.


    How could she not be angry at someone misappropriating her hard work?


    "Don''t be angry first. Can we get this song back?" Sheforted Huo Mei Shu, but suddenly felt herfort was meaningless.


    If they could get it back, with the young miss''s temperament, she would have gone to find someone already. How could she possibly just vent her frustrations at home?

 Chapter 83: The Theft of Music

    <h4>Chapter 83</h4>


    "Sister-inw, if I could get this back, I wouldn''t be so upset here. This song... I put in so much effort, I didn''t expect someone to just giarize it like that! I haven''t even had the chance to finish arranging it yet!" Huo Mei Shu angrily pounded the table again, making the bowls and tes rattle.


    Rong Dai didn''t know how tofort her for a moment. If they couldn''t get it back, the young sister-inw would just have to resign herself to her misfortune. But this was the fruit of herbor, she would probably be upset for days.


    "Sister-inw, thank you for making the wontons and bird''s nest for me, I''m fine. I''m just angry and disappointed. If she really wanted this song, she could have just asked me for it."


    Huo Mei Shu''s anger had subsided quite a bit by now, and she also realized she had lost control. She quickly added this sentence.


    Rong Dai nodded, looking at her earnestly: "Although this song is precious, using one song to make you see through her is not necessarily a bad thing."


    She shook her head and said, Huo Mei Shu was not like her. She had lived two lifetimes, and knew that the human heart was the least resistant to trials.


    As soon as heavy interests seduced, how many people could resist?


    "Even if she bes famous because of this song, you should know that some things don''t belong to her. Things taken by theft will be repaid in other ways sooner orter."


    She tried to make her words not sound too profound, her voice gentle and soft, pleasant to the ear.


    "And this is your talent. I believe that if one day you can disy your talent, it will definitely be undeniable. You have to believe in yourself. Don''t waste your energy on things that are not worth it. Just take it as her returning your favor for the zither she gave you. Look at it from a different perspective, and you''ll feel much better."


    In her previous life in the pce, through the long nights, the concubines including her as the empress all had to learn to distract themselves from worries, otherwise how could they survive in the pce?


    So she was first ss atforting people.


    Huo Mei Shu found her words veryforting, the gloom and anger in her heart swept away, and she immediately revealed her unique brilliant smile again.


    "Thank you sister-inw! I feel much better after talking to you!"


    Rong Dai also breathed a sigh of relief, and smiled as she got up: "If you''re willing to talk to me in the future, I''ll be very happy to listen, I promise to keep it a secret."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded vigorously. She found that the Rong Dai in front of her now was simply a treasure of a sister-inw!


    "Mom was very worried about you today. She probably hasn''t gone to sleep yet. Do you want to go talk to Mom for a few minutes? I still have some work to do on the script, so I won''t apany you there."


    She cautiously asked, after all, it was best for Huo Mei Shu herself to go, so her mother-inw could feel at ease that she had pleted the task", and the mother-inw could rest easy as well.


    "Go, go! Take advantage of this opportunity with my big brother, don''t miss this good timing!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s yful gossiping mood had taken over again.


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly, and could only leave her room with mixed feelings.


    Returning to the bedroom, she saw Huo Shao Ting sitting at the desk busy at work on hisputer.


    "There are still things to deal with at thepany?" She asked in surprise. Then hadn''t she wasted a lot of his time that afternoon?


    "I''m making a schedule for you. Come take a look, let me know if there''s anywhere you think needs to be modified."


    Huo Shao Ting nced up at her and waved her over.


    Rong Dai closed the door and locked it, then went over to him. Just as she was about to bend down to take a look, she felt his warm big hand grasp her waist, and her whole body sat down on hisp.


    Her heart suddenly started pounding wildly. Although she had gradually be ustomed to this over the past few days, intimate contact between the two of them still made her feel this elerated heartbeat.


    Her cheeks and ear tips couldn''t help turning red. Damn him, Huo Shao Ting had even rested his chin on her shoulder, his steady breathing lingering around her neck, both sour and itchy.


    "You... you go ahead and do it, I''ll go take a shower."


    The high temperature generated by this kind of contact between them was almost overwhelming her. She hurriedly found an excuse to get away, but as soon as she stood up, her waist was pulled back by him with a slight force, and her whole body steadily fell into his arms.


    Rong Dai''s face turned crimson, her eyes nervously and panic looking at him, her moist, bright red lips slightly parted, somewhat at a loss.


    Was he... wanting to do that?


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the tempting her in front of him, constantly attracting him to get closer to her.


    "Focus, or would you rather do something else with me?"


    Seeing that her mind was elsewhere, a trace of evil charm shed through Huo Shao Ting''s eyes. He suddenly leaned in close to her ear, his low, mellow voice was seductive in itself.


    And saying such suggestive words, Rong Dai''s just calmed down temperature erupted again.


    "I don''t want to look anymore! You decide!"


    Rong Dai knew he was deliberately teasing her. She turned her head and red at him indignantly, but her blushing face had already betrayed her inner thoughts.


    "No more joking around, look seriously." He quickly coaxed, unable to help pecking her cheek again.


    "You..." Rong Dai was both shy and annoyed. He was doing this on purpose!


    After the couple frolicked for a while, they finalized the schedule.


    Huo Shao Ting went to run her bath water, while she fiddled with theputer herself, looking up the few dramas Ji��ng L��ng had rmended.


    "Go take a bath first, we''ll watch the videoster." Huo Shao Ting came out after a while, water droplets still hanging on him.


    Dressed like this in a white shirt with two buttons of the cor undone, he was simply tempting.


    Rong Dai swiftly nced at him before hurrying into the bathroom, too nervous that she forgot to lock it.


    After brushing her teeth and washing her face, she got naked and entered the bathtub. Although she was an empress in her previous life, bathing was regted and not something she could enjoy every day. She really liked this feeling of being enveloped by hot water, eliminating fatigue.


    She was lying in the tub with her eyes closed enjoying it, when she suddenly felt a little pain in her lower abdomen, and something leaked out from down there.


    She quickly took a look, and the water in the tub had turned red.


    This was... her period starting!


    Rong Dai was stunned!


    Her phone wasn''t by her side, and Huo Shao Ting was still outside, what should she do?


    She had no idea how people in this modern era handled periods, but it definitely wouldn''t be asplex and primitive as in ancient times.


    Her period was getting heavier and heavier, she could only get up and wrap a towel around herself, then sit on the toilet.


    She stared nkly at the floor in front of her, soulless. What should she do? If she had her phone, she could ask her young sister-inw for help.


    But Huo Shao Ting was outside! Should she... ask him to help her?


    Rong Dai felt her brain was tangled up.

 Chapter 84: The Machine Without Feelings

    <h4>Chapter 84</h4>


    Rong Dai sat dazed on the toilet for nearly half an hour. Her legs gradually became a little numb, and the key was that her lower abdomen hurt.


    The cramps made her limbs weak and her body very soft.


    She just wanted to lie down on the bed, preferably with a maid pressing on her lower abdomen.


    In her previous life, she was also in agony every time she had her period. She didn''t expect it to still be like this in this life.


    Rong Dai remained silent as she felt the surge in a certain ce, a thinyer of fine sweat already emerging on her forehead.


    "Rong Dai?"


    Huo Shao Ting found all the dramas she needed to watch on theputer and saved them all to the desktop for her.


    But there was no sound from the bathroom for a long time, so he couldn''t help worrying.


    Her foot injury hadn''tpletely healed yet.


    The bathroom was slippery, he was afraid she would fall, so he knocked on the door and called out.


    Hearing the knock, Rong Dai''s whole body jerked!


    She suddenly straightened her back, her face panicked and anxious!


    She hurriedly stammered back to him, "I...I''ll be done soon, you...wait a little longer."


    After speaking, she looked around the bathroom, trying to find something to pad with first.


    She didn''t know what modern women used during their periods, which was her biggest dilemma.


    Rong Dai was on the verge of tears, how could she be so muddled?


    How could she have forgotten such an important thing?


    She should have looked up this kind of thing on her phone earlier. Now her phone wasn''t with her either, and Huo Shao Ting was right outside the door.


    Huo Shao Ting heard her panicked and stuttering voice, and couldn''t help frowning. This didn''t sound right.


    "Are you...having your period?"


    He calcted the time, it was early in the month now. A woman''s physiology should have arrived. He hesitantly asked.


    After asking, although his face was expressionless, his earlobes were still a little hot and red.


    Although this was not something that could not be talked about, it still felt a little awkward.


    When Rong Dai heard his sudden question, her cheeks were deathly pale with a hint of blush. Her palms were sweating.


    It took her a few seconds to react and realize this was probably the modern term.


    After a period of intense inner struggle, Rong Dai replied to him, "Yes...yes."


    After answering, she was a little relieved, but her cheeks became hot and red.


    In her previous life, such things were seen as filthy by men, so women had to tiptoe around them carefully.


    They couldn''t even talk about it, otherwise they would be seen as immoral.


    She had just told Huo Shao Ting about this, what would he think?


    Rong Dai''s heart was seized with worry again. Hearing no movement from outside the door for a long time.


    She even unconsciously slowed her breathing. Could it be that he was really angry?


    "Shao...Shao Ting?"


    She swallowed and cautiously called out nervously, but got no response from him.


    Now she was done for!


    Rong Dai''s heart plummeted, like being doused from head to toe with cold water!


    Her hands and feet turned icy cold again and again, and herplexion was ghastly pale.


    Half of it was due to abdominal pain, and half was due to her unease.


    She should not have answered him, but now she was stuck...


    After hearing her words, Huo Shao Ting started looking around in the bedroom.


    Although he knew women had periods, he didn''t know how to deal with this kind of thing.


    After hesitating in the bedroom for a while, he went out to find Huo Mei Shu, of course unable to hear Rong Dai''s voice.


    "Big brother? Is something the matter?"


    Huo Mei Shu had forgotten to lock the door and was cleaning up the mess in the room.


    Suddenly hearing the door open, she looked up to see her big brother with a strange expression on his face. She couldn''t help swallowing and asked him apprehensively.


    Huo Shao Ting pursed his lips, his eyes very deep, making his mood unreadable.


    He closed the door with one hand, standing still in thought.


    Seeing him silent for so long with a twisted and weird expression, Huo Mei Shu''s heart inexplicably jumped to her throat. She unconsciously took two steps back.


    Could big brother be here to settle ounts after autumn?


    She almost cried. If she had known her big brother held such a grudge, she would have...it seemed toote to say anything now.


    "Your sister-inw is having her period during her bath. I couldn''t find anything to use."


    After struggling for a bit, Huo Shao Ting looked up at her, his face as cold as ever, but his ears were suspiciously red.


    Huo Mei Shu: "???"


    She thought she had misheard. Her big brother, who normally dealt with billions in business, could actually ask such a question?!


    "So big brother you came to ask me to get sanitary pads for sister-inw?"


    A few secondster, Huo Mei Shu finally reacted, squinting at him with a hint of ridicule in her eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned, his face growing colder: "Do you not want that private concert anymore? Or do you think I have time to waste talking to you here?"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately pouted. This was still her ruthless big brother!


    Threatening her with money at the slightest disagreement!


    "Why are you, a grown man, getting involved in this? I''ll just bring it to sister-inw."


    Although she was happy to see her big brother and sister-inw''s good rtionship, such matters were still awkward for girls to talk about openly, not every girl was as open-minded as her.


    "She''s taking a bath." Huo Shao Ting said lightly.


    Huo Mei Shu frowned in confusion. "So?"


    The man looked at her solemnly: "So you can''t go in."


    Huo Mei Shu: "???"


    Was this gender discrimination? But she was a woman!


    "She''s my wife."


    Seemingly seeing through her thoughts, Huo Shao Ting mercilessly continued attacking her.


    Huo Mei Shu: "......"


    Hahahahaha...


    In her heart, countless little people immediatelyughed coldly.


    "What about sister-inw''s underwear?"


    Huo Mei Shuughed drily and made hand gestures while asking him.


    "Just give me the things."


    "Oh."


    Huo Mei Shu said dispiritedly.


    What a heartless big brother!


    "These are for day use, these are night ones, these are pads."


    "You can just give them to sister-inw, she''ll know how to use them anyway."


    Huo Mei Shu directly gave him several packs, thoughtfully distinguishing them for him.


    "Okay, I transferred the money to you, is 10,000 enough?"


    Huo Shao Ting took the things while retrieving his phone, thinking about something else in his mind.


    Recalling Rong Dai''s bizarre words and behavior recently, his eyes were deep as he looked at the sanitary pads in his hand. She might not even know how to use these.


    Huo Mei Shu: "......"


    Were these made of gold?


    He was being so generous, why not just smash her with billions?


    Seeing her silent, Huo Shao Ting left with the things.


    Looking at the 10,000 yuan transfer in her phone, Huo Mei Shu felt half crying, halfughing.


    But at the same time, she also breathed a sigh of relief. Big brother seemed to be starting to learn how to care for others.

 Chapter 85: How Strange She Is

    <h4>Chapter 85</h4>


    Rong Dai sat on the toilet with her legs already numb, Huo Shao Ting hadn��t answered her for such a long time that she felt extremely conflicted and anxious inside, the physical pain made her very ufortable.


    She was about to use some toilet paper to deal with it first, take her phone to look it up, and this matter would be easy to handle.


    "Rong Dai?"


    Just as she started to move, she heard Huo Shao Ting knocking on the door. She immediately tensed up again, her gaze fixed steadily on the door handle, and said in a panicked, stuttering voice, "I...I''m here."


    "Can Ie in?" He stood outside the door and asked, holding one of her panties in his hand, the sanitary pad on it looked a little crooked.


    As soon as Rong Dai heard this, her mind went nk immediately.


    Let him in?


    But...what other choice did she have now? It was her own carelessness that she didn''t calcte the timing of this matter well.


    "Y-yes."


    She reluctantly agreed through gritted teeth, subconsciously wrapping the bath towel tightly around herself, but the bath towel wasn''t very big, and she was sitting on the toilet, her two long, straight, wless legs exposed, very eye-catching.


    Huo Shao Ting was also very nervous outside the door. Hearing her reply, his heart inexplicably started pounding rapidly.


    He was very clear that after passing through this door, he would see what was happening.


    That inexplicable tension made him break out into a hot sweat on his back and palms. He had to twist the door handle several times before opening it.


    Hearing the sound of the door opening, Rong Dai quickly turned her head to withdraw her gaze, lowering her half-wet hair to stare at the floor, this was so embarrassing!


    Rong Dai only felt like half of her body was soaking in icy water while the other half was immersed in magma. What was meant by fire and ice, she was experiencing it firsthand now.


    This feeling was practically soul-crushing!


    "Put these on first."


    Huo Shao Ting''s ears were also blushing badly, and the things in his hands felt scalding hot.


    "Th-thank you."


    Rong Dai''s whole face was bright red, seeing the panties he handed over, she practically snatched them!


    "I...I''ll go get you a bathrobe."


    The atmosphere in the bathroom was very awkward and strange, even Huo Shao Ting felt like he was suffocating, stammering awkwardly before turning to leave.


    Rong Dai wished she could find a crack in the floor to crawl into, she had never lost so much face before!


    She felt like one of her ears was like a boiling kettle spewing steam while the other ear was soaking inva. Her whole body alternated between chills and fevers, making her feel so embarrassed she was nearly dizzy.


    "Ugh--"


    The surging menstrual cramps were also against her. Huo Shao Ting had just walked to the door when he heard her painful gasp. He immediately turned back to look at her, wanting to ask if she was okay.


    But with this turn of his head, the bath towel wrapped around Rong Dai happened to slip down quite a bit.


    Her swan-like neck, beautiful shoulders, and ample bosom were half exposed.


    So fair, delicate, full, with extremely beautiful contours.


    Huo Shao Ting was stunned, even forgetting to breathe for a moment, only feeling his blood rushing to his head!


    It was like a volcanic eruption, rushing straight to his crown!


    Rong Dai was only thinking about quickly ending this extremely awkward and embarrassing interlude. She didn''t notice the slipping of the bath towel either, it wasn''t cold in the bathroom in August.


    She thought Huo Shao Ting had already left, so she briskly lifted her leg to put on the panties with the sanitary pad already attached, in a practiced motion.


    This scene was seenpletely clearly by Huo Shao Ting, her two long legs were so fair they dazzled the eyes, as if they were illuminated by a soft light.


    "Ah!"


    After Rong Dai finished putting on her panties, she noticed the fallen bath towel. In order to avoid it falling into the toilet, she hurriedly reached to catch it, but when she raised her head she discovered Huo Shao Ting standing there stiff as a statue, frightening her into crying out loud!


    Her heart was thumping wildly, she could even feel her internal organs shuddering along with it. Her whole body''s blood was churning like boiling water, her face zing hot, she was so mortified and tense she wanted to smash her head into a wall and pass out!


    In her past life as an empress she had always been graceful and elegant, never losingposure like this before. Today she had lost all the face from two lifetimes!


    Rong Dai was angry and annoyed at herself in her heart. If it wasn''t for her own carelessness, how could such an embarrassing thing have happened?


    Huo Shao Ting was brought back to his senses by her shriek. He hurriedly closed the door and walked out. But that scene had already etched itself into his mind, filling up his head like a huge mural.


    Inside the bathroom, Rong Dai berated herself for her carelessness, and worried that Huo Shao Ting would overthink things. Her heart was in turmoil with no solid footing.


    Thinking that he had gone to get a bathrobe, she hurriedly wrapped the bath towel tightly around herself. She had absentmindedly not even brought a change of clothes into the bathroom!


    Vexed as she was, she still quickly flushed the toilet and let out the water from the bathtub.


    When Huo Shao Ting came in with the bathrobe, the two looked at each other awkwardly. Still, he was the first toe over and put the bathrobe around her. "Go change first, I''ll clean up the bathroom."


    Rong Dai''s face was burning red, not even daring to meet his eyes. She hurriedly nodded and escaped as if for her life.


    Aftering out, Rong Dai took a deep breath, seeing the several packages brought over by Huo Mei Shu from Huo Shao Ting. Going over for a look, she discovered one package was opened, with two failed experimental pads in the trash can, and two pairs of her panties on the sofa.


    These panties were newly bought. Although she and the original owner had the same body, Rong Dai still didn''t like sharing intimate articles with others. And when Huo Shao Ting had bought her clothes in the beginning, it was from the inside out, from head to toe.


    Her face immediately turned crimson. She grabbed the panties on the sofa and the packs of pads, and went into the walk-in closet, not forgetting to bring her phone along.


    Inside the walk-in closet, she hurriedly changed into loungewear, and frantically looked up information on her phone. Her heart finally rxed quite a bit.


    Looking at those exquisitely packaged pads, Rong Dai couldn''t help but sigh inwardly that girls of this modern era were much more fortunate than ancient women like her, especially regarding feminine matters. Such convenient, sanitary and healthy products simply couldn''t exist in her past life.


    After all, cotton was an extremely important agricultural product in her past life. How could it possibly have been used for such things for women?


    She had basically crammed all the knowledge about menstruation and pads, but the embarrassment in the bathroom was still fresh in her mind.


    Just now...surely he didn''t see everything clearly, right?


    Thinking of this, Rong Dai''s heart was in chaos. Worried yet vexed.


    But the physical difort in her lower abdomen soon defeated her. The stabbing pains forced her to have to lie back down in bed.


    Huo Shao Ting stood frozen in the bathroom, his whole being seemingly detached from his body. It wasn''t until the water in the bathtub overflowed that he reacted, hurriedly cleaning everything up spotless.


    The old Huo manor was very big, each person''s room had an independent bathroom and study. The bathrooms were divided into wet and dry areas, theyout spacious.


    As he passed by the sink, his footsteps paused for a moment as he looked towards the cab next to it. This cab usually stored some new bathroom supplies, and of course could also hold other things. He hadn''t found what was needed in the bedroom just now, perhaps it was here.


    Huo Shao Ting wasn''t so far gone as to lose his reason because of the earlier scene. He was happy about his wife''s changes, but some of her subtle oddities also made him feel doubtful.


    He reached out and pulled open the drawer, seeing several packs of sanitary pads inside, as well as disposable panties for periods.


    His gaze deepened. It seemed his wife had many things she was hiding from him.

 Chapter 86: His Suspicions

    <h4>Chapter 86</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting closed the drawer impassively. He was willing to wait for her to give him an answer. He didn''t want to force her into doing anything against her will.


    When he came out from the bathroom, Rong Dai was already lying in bed.


    The air conditioning at home was set to a constant temperature, so even during the hot summer, it wouldn''t feel too warm indoors. But Rong Dai seemed as if she was feeling very cold, curling up tightly and wrapping herself in a thin quilt.


    "Rong Dai?"


    Seeing her looking unwell and pale, he walked over with a frown and felt her forehead to check her temperature.


    Rong Dai murmured a soft response to him, but her physical difort made her feel awful.


    Just then, there was a knock on the door. Huo Shao Ting tucked the quilt around her and gently told her, "I''ll go see who it is. You just lie down and rest first."


    After saying so, he went to open the door. Seeing that it was Huo Mei Shu, his frown deepened.


    "Big brother, I''vee to give you some advice. Don''t always look at me like that. You and sister-inw have such a good rtionship. Don''t I deserve some credit for that?" Huo Mei Shu felt rather dejected. Her big brother was so ungrateful after all the hard work she did for him.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression softened a little. He walked forward a few steps and closed the bedroom door, afraid their conversation might disturb Rong Dai''s rest.


    "She''s in a lot of pain and seems very cold," he exined to Huo Mei Shu. He was worried and distressed, but her illness was not something he could take on in her ce. All he could do was try to find ways to solve it for her and alleviate her difort.


    "Why else do you think I''m here?" Huo Mei Shu scoffed, then brought out her secret weapons.


    "Here''s some brown sugar and heat patches. I''m only giving you this one set. Go buy more yourself tomorrow. I don''t need to say more about opportunities like this, do I?"


    Huo Mei Shu stuffed the items into his hands.


    "How do I use them?" Huo Shao Ting asked very seriously. Huo Mei Shu sighed inwardly. Their whole family was worried half to death. It seemed that only the people involved could truly understand matters of the heart.


    "Remember to buy handmade brown sugar tomorrow. The kind made by machines will have an unpleasant smell. Get this brand of heat patches - they''re safe. You''re wee," Huo Mei Shu said with a smile before sauntering off humming a tune.


    Huo Shao Ting returned to the bedroom with the items. He called Rong Dai, who seemed on the verge of losing consciousness from the pain, back to awareness.


    "Shao Ting, can we talk about this tomorrow? I''m really not feeling well now," Rong Dai hadn''t expected this body''s original owner to be even more agonized than her past self. This was pure torment!


    "These are heat patches. Lift up your clothes," Huo Shao Ting spoke to her gently as if soothing a child, seeing how pale her face had be.


    Rong Dai felt as if she was about to faint. She simply obeyed his instructions, mumbling deliriously, "Is it Nurse Tang? Hurry, apply it for This Pce..."


    Huo Shao Ting applied the heat patches on her. These patches had adhesive sides and a velvety middle over the heating area, so they wouldn''t burn her skin directly.


    Although she didn''t speak very loudly, Huo Shao Ting was close enough to hear every word clearly.


    Nurse Tang? This Pce?


    His gaze was deep, as if dyed by ink. After carefully tucking her into the quilt, he went downstairs to make brown sugar water for her, adding two slices of ginger ording to Huo Mei Shu''s instructions.


    "Young Master, are you...making brown sugar water? Is it because Madam is having her monthly pains and feeling unwell? I don''t recall Madam drinking brown sugar water very often," Mrs. Wang said in surprise, walking out from the bedroom after hearing the sounds from the kitchen. It wasn''t new for the Huo family''s Young Master to cook, but she found it odd that he was making brown sugar water for Madam.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was calm, but his eyes were profound. He replied evenly, "The pain is very bad this time. Drinking this will help more."


    Mrs. Wang could only nod. She didn''t think much more about it and returned to her room to rest.


    After boiling the brown sugar water, Huo Shao Ting poured it into a thermos and brought it upstairs. Seeing that Rong Dai had fallen asleep and herplexion was no longer so pale, he finally felt relieved.


    Looking at her sleeping form, it was still the same face, yet he felt something was different about her.


    She held more and more secrets. She was now vastly different from the Rong Dai he first knew.


    Before their marriage, they had met only twice before deciding to wed. Later on, most of what he knew about her came from listening to Grandmother.


    On their wedding night, her coldness and aloofness irritated him greatly.


    If she was unwilling, he certainly wouldn''t have married her. Marriage had never been a necessity for him.


    But her coldness that night cut him deeply. He would never force a woman into anything.


    He hadn''t intended that they must be intimate that night either. They would have plenty of time to slowly cultivate their feelings. He could wait until she was willing wholeheartedly, not just stiffly obliging physical needs.


    After marrying, they seldom met. Yet whenever they did, she always had that frigid expression, with eyes full of chill and detachment.


    The atmosphere at home changed because of it. Of course he wouldn''t let things continue that way.


    But after she called him from the hospital, things began to shift.


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her, his eyes filled with bewilderment. Some of her behavior made him feel as if she didn''t quite belong in this world, unlike a modern person.


    He knew such thoughts were absurd, yet she was like an enigma he had to peel backyer byyer to find the answers to.


    Setting aside his inner doubts for now, he showered then dimmed the bedroom lights before heading directly to his study and turning on his personalputer.


    He had photos stored of the jade pendant he acquired for 100 million yuan but didn''t give to her in the end.


    A hundred million was no big issue for him. At most he just needed to expand some minor projects to earn it back.


    Moreover, he had intended to buy something she liked, since she gave her set of jade jewelry to his mother.


    He was simply curious why she reacted so strongly upon seeing this jade pendant.


    He still remembered Rong Dai''s excitement then, the joy of recovering something lost.


    Meaning this jade pendant was something she had owned before. Otherwise there would have been no talk of recovering something lost.


    But the investigation into An Fei Ya''s background showed that she returned to Huaxia from country Y, and held Huaxia citizenship, only living abroad since young.


    The reason she returned alone was still unknown, nor were any of her family members found.


    An Fei Ya''s identity was a mystery, as were Rong Dai''s changes.


    However, one thing he could ascertain - this jade pendant could not have belonged to Rong Dai before. Although An Fei Ya''s profession was jewelry design, she operated in fashion circles, following international trends.


    One look and anyone could tell this jade pendant was an antique from Huaxia. Apart from the material value itself, it held no fashion value, moreover it was recovered from a remote mountain vige. There was no rtionship at all with Rong Dai.

 Chapter 87: Got It on Him

    <h4>Chapter 87</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting looked at theputer screen for seven or eight minutes. He had studied this jade pendant before. It was just a high-quality ink jade without anything special.


    After thinking for a while, he took out his phone and sent a message to his assistant Zhang. What he couldn''t see, experts could always see.


    Then he dealt with some work and went back to bed, gently hugging Rong Dai who was fast asleep, and the couple fell into deep sleep.


    Rong Dai slept very soundly. When she got up early in the morning, she felt refreshed. The pain that came with her periodst night was gone.


    She turned over and reached out to touch the already cool bed beside her. Hearing the sound of water in the bathroom, her cheeks couldn''t help turning red again.


    She still remembered what happenedst night. She sat up and felt the surging sensation down there, which seemed to want to spurt out. She immediately crawled out of bed.


    Seeing that the sheets were still clean, she breathed a sigh of relief. Otherwise, it would be too embarrassing.


    Huo Shao Ting came out of the bathroom and saw her standing by the bed tidying up. He told her, "Drink the brown sugar water in the thermos first. Mrs. Wang will take care of the rest."


    But Rong Dai had already tidied up the bed. Although she still felt a little embarrassed, since he didn''t mention it, she certainly wouldn''t mention it either. She unscrewed the thermos and drank.


    The brown sugar water boiledst night was no longer scalding hot. Rong Dai didn''t dare to waste his thoughtfulness. She also knew it was good to drink brown sugar water during the first two days of her period. The feelingst night was really too painful.


    "I''ve finished drinking... I''ll go wash up first."


    She put down the thermos, still not daring to look at Huo Shao Ting, quickly went to the cloakroom to take a sanitary napkin, and then went into the bathroom, not forgetting to lock the door this time.


    Hearing her lock the door, Huo Shao Ting was a little helpless. Thinking that it was probablyst night''s events that made her feel embarrassed, he changed his clothes and went downstairs first by himself.


    Rong Dai didn''t wash up immediately after entering the bathroom. She first changed her sanitary napkin, but as she sat down, she froze.


    She saw a patch of dried dark red blood on her butt. Did Huo Shao Ting see it just now?


    Her cheeks instantly became scalding hot. Rong Dai really wished she could find a crack in the ground and drill into it!


    As she was annoyed, her eyes caught sight of theundry basket ced far away. Half of Huo Shao Ting''s home clothes were still exposed outside, with a few spots of blood on them.


    Could it be that she had rubbed it all over Huo Shao Ting''s body?!


    Rong Dai was so shocked that her eyes widened. She couldn''t help but take a deep breath. She really hoped a thunderbolt could strike her with amnesia right now!


    This kind of thing was simply... All the face she had umted in her two lifetimes had vanished overnight.


    Rong Dai felt desperate sitting on the toilet and sighing. What''s done cannot be undone. What else could she do?


    Should she tell Huo Shao Ting not to overthink? Wouldn''t that make things more awkward for herself?


    She could only pretend to have amnesia and bury her head in the sand.


    After washing up and changing her clothes, Rong Dai thought her face had been lost thoroughly. Her whole being felt a little sickly.


    "Sister-inw, you don''t look well. I''ll have Mrs. Wang cook red dates and bird''s nest soup for you. We women are most vulnerable at this time, so you need to take care of yourself."


    Seeing her looking unwell, Huo Mei Shu advised her. Mrs. Wang also brought out the cooked red dates and bird''s nest soup.


    Seeing her paleplexion, Lu Zheng was also a little worried. She nced at Huo Shao Ting, "Let her rest at home today. Work can be done anytime, a woman''s health is most important."


    Although knowing they were only concerned about her because of Huo Shao Ting, Rong Dai still felt very warm and content.


    "Thank you, mom and Mei Shu, and thank you Mrs. Wang for your hard work. But I''m fine, just a little weak. I''ll be better after breakfast."


    She tried her best to smile nicely. She really didn''t want to make a big fuss over this little thing, that would be too affected.


    "Sister-inw, I have to call you out on this. When a woman should be affected, she should be affected. This body is yours. With yourplexion like this, how can you work? If you''re in pain, can you endure it?"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately put down her chopsticks and looked at her very seriously and solemnly. Then she nced at Huo Shao Ting.


    "I''ve already talked to Uncle Jiang. You can go after you get better. He also needs to visit some old friends."


    Huo Shao Ting had the final say. He wanted her to seed, but not at the cost of her health.


    Seeing her in so much painst night, besides feeling distressed, there was little he could do.


    He was even considering whether they should have children in the future. If a period already caused her so much pain, wouldn''t giving birth take half her life?


    Rong Dai felt warm inside. Thinking that Uncle Jiang said he was going to the crew today, looking like this she probably couldn''t go. So she nodded and agreed, thinking she would call Uncle Jiangter too.


    After breakfast, Huo Shao Ting went to work as usual, mother-inw had signed up for self-cultivation sses, so she went out every day too.


    Huo Mei Shu had basically finalized going abroad, she just had to go next year. So she still had half a year of vacation time left.


    "Sister-inw, I got you sanitary pads from my roomst night, you''re not allergic to this brand right? I only use this brand, I don''t know if it suits you."


    With just the two of them left in the house, Mrs. Wang and Li Shu had their own things to take care of, so Huo Mei Shu came over and asked.


    Rong Dai''s whole body immediately stiffened, as if glued in ce by cement.


    "What...what did you say?"


    Last night, did Huo Shao Ting go to his little sister to get sanitary pads for her?


    For a moment, Rong Dai really wanted to faint. It seemed she didn''t hear what the little sister said.


    "Sanitary pads, you''re not allergic right? If you are, I''ll go with you to buy another brand." Huo Mei Shu didn''t think it was shameful at all for a man to help a woman with these things. It was the same as a man needing to buy condoms.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks were scalding hot. She couldn''t imagine what kind of embarrassment it was for Huo Shao Ting, a CEO of a bigpany, to ask his little sister for sanitary pads for her sake.


    She didn''t want to continue talking about this. Last night was an unforgettable embarrassment.


    "I''m not allergic. If you have time, can you go shopping with me?"


    She quickly changed the subject.


    "You''re right. All my girlfriends have flown away with their boyfriends, leaving only me alone. It''s rare you have time, sister-inw. Let''s splurge today!"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately became excited. Who made her big brother give her 200,000 in just over half a month? She would be letting him down if she didn''t spend it!


    "I want to buy silk threads, embroidery backing, and since it''s a thin quilt, there''s also silk, preferably a sewing machine too."


    A sewing machine, she had looked it up online, the modern magic device for making fabrics.


    Some silk fabrics still required pure handwork, but she also needed to adapt to this world, not all silk fabrics had to be purely handmade.


    Since she hade to this world, she should learn to enjoy its convenience. These were things she needed to learn, and it was also to avoid revealing ws in the future.

 Chapter 88: Your Mouth is in Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 88</h4>


    Rong Dai also needed to prepare many things for her embroidery. The pieces she had done before were just small objects, so she didn''t need that much.


    She had to buy all the different embroidery frames, stools, stands, embroidery threads and needles.


    Since the modern times had not lost these ancient items and they still held unique value, she could not let her skills be lost either.


    Plus, she had made some ns for her own future. She could not rely on Huo Shao Ting.


    In a year, the two of them would have to part ways. She needed to re-learn how to survive in this modern world andpete with those young girls in the workce. She wouldn''t be able to beat them.


    However, she had her own skills. If done well, these skills could not only bring her ie but also allow her to put her learning to use.


    In her past life, she and those youngdies from prestigious families had worked hard to learn these things in order to stand out from the crowd.


    But once they became the master''s wife or concubine, naturally these skills were no longer needed to make a living. Their days were spentpeting over that courtyard and pce walls. The skills that they had spent nearly ten years learning were rendered useless.


    Since she could make use of them here, why wouldn''t she?


    "I don''t know where in Shenjing would have all these things ready for you. They''re practically antiques now and some have been phased out."


    Rong Dai took out her phone which already had a list of everything she needed to buy.


    Seeing the list, Huo Mei Shu also looked forward to Rong Dai''s embroidery skills.


    "These things can be bought but you''ll need a room cleared out for them. But that''s no big deal, there are empty rooms in the house that I can have Auntie Wang tidy up."


    She readily agreed and then instructed Auntie Wang to find people to clean up the empty room upstairs.


    "Let me go take a look."


    Hearing this, Rong Dai felt relieved.


    "Then I''ll ask some friends where we can buy you these things. These are practically ancient artifacts! I don''t know where some can still be found."


    Huo Mei Shu waved her hand while sitting on the couch, messaging people on her phone.


    Rong Dai followed Auntie Wang up to the third floor. The third floor had Grandmother''s bedroom and three other empty rooms. After looking at them, she chose the one facing south which had ample light and a view of the garden in the Huo residence.


    This was not like her past life where an exquisite work required a certain temperature in the embroidery room. But here there was air conditioning so she didn''t need to worry about minor factors like that.


    Going back downstairs, she went to the bedroom to fetch her wallet and took out the ck card that Huo Shao Ting had given the original owner.


    The card didn''t even need a password. The original owner had told her during that dream. It was for the monthly allowance that Huo Shao Ting put into her ount.


    It seemed the original owner had truly been an ungrateful wretch. At least Huo Shao Ting still paid attention to details like this and continued providing for her financially after being snubbed.


    Holding the thin card, shemented the convenience of this modern age but also grieved that her debt would increase again.


    The embroidery frames and other items were fine but the base fabric for embroidery and the threads were the most expensive.


    She would definitely bleed money today but she had no choice. If she didn''t spend this money, filming for her new drama hadn''t started yet so she wouldn''t have ie.


    Right now the only way she could earn money quickly was from embroidered works. Although she knew that in this modern age, skills like musical instruments, calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting could also be taught for a fee.


    But firstly she didn''t have time to learn all the theory for graded musical exams. And secondly, the Huo family definitely wouldn''t allow it.


    Also, if she suddenly excelled in all those skills, it would be too bizarre.


    She couldn''t rush these things and could only take them one step at a time.


    With a soft sigh, she put the card into her handbag. Seeing here back down, Huo Mei Shu immediately showed her phone.


    "All done. It''s right here, guaranteed to have everything you need. I''ll go today to broaden my own horizons too."


    Huo Mei Shu had an outgoing personality. She called for Uncle Li to bring her car keys.


    "I''ll be your driver today!"


    The two sisters-inw got into the car and headed straight for their destination. Once Huo Mei Shu believed in and liked someone, she would give her all, as she currently felt about Rong Dai.


    The two of them got out of the car and were met with a wave of heat. Huo Mei Shu wildly sprayed herself with sunscreen, not even sparing Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai was around the same age as Huo Mei Shu. The two beauties attracted many gazes as soon as they stepped out.


    The architecture in this area was antiquated. From far away, numerous embroidered works could already be seen. But Rong Dai was discerning and none could catch her eye.


    On the other hand, Huo Mei Shu thought each piece was great. Rong Dai was slightly exasperated but also amused. She started lecturing her sister-inw.


    "Sister-inw, look at this one, isn''t it double-sided Suzhou embroidery?"


    Huo Mei Shu suddenly stopped in front of a decently sized shop with elegant d��cor. Her gazended on an embroidered piece in the disy window as she pulled Rong Dai to ask.


    Rong Dai also stopped to take a look. She nodded, "It''s embroidered with two colors but the technique iscking. The concealed stitches are imperfect and there are many ws.


    She blurted out her critique out of habit but ended up offending people.


    The two of them didn''t expect the female owner to be chatting with someone next door and overhear every word Rong Dai said.


    "Such arrogance! If outsiders didn''t know better, they''d think you two young girls were experts!"


    The owner was wide and stocky, speaking in a coarse loud voice. If she yelled a little louder, she could train up a Lion''s Roar skill like the monks at Shaolin Temple.


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment. Her gaze suddenly turned sharp as she gently pulled Huo Mei Shu behind her to protect her.


    Huo Mei Shu was surprised and felt a strange warmth in her heart seeing Rong Dai''s straight back...


    "Arrogant? I didn''t mean to insult your goods. But since you dare disy them, you should be prepared for critique. If you disyed a superior work, experts would know at a nce.


    But this two-colored embroidery clearly underwent secondary processing by different embroiderers. The first embroiderer had skilled techniques and concealed the stitches wlessly which is difficult with two-colored embroidery. See for yourself, some threads are poking out below? Isn''t that obviously shoddy work?"


    Rong Dai had an innate aura and spoke sharply and urately. The owner instantly deted.


    "What nonsense are you spewing?! There are no threads sticking out! If you dare spout rubbish again, I''ll rip your mouth!"


    The owner was stunned for a few seconds. Noticing many customers and the shop owner watching, she immediately put on a fierce expression and angrily berated Rong Dai.


    "Say one more word, I dare you! Who''s mouth are you ripping?! Can''t take critique for subpar goods? Should I call the police toe over and watch you rip a mouth?!"


    Hearing this, Huo Mei Shu immediately red up! She rushed in front of Rong Dai, hands on her hips to retaliate against the owner!

 Chapter 89: Here Comes the Big Man

    <h4>Chapter 89</h4>


    ��How old are you? What do you know? This is the shop''s treasure, the finest of Suzhou embroidery, a double-sided embroidery! Such exquisite handmade treasures are rare, how dare you criticize my embroidery so arrogantly?��


    The shop owner wasn''t afraid at all, shamelessly praising her shop''s embroidery.


    Seeing Huo Mei Shu about to lose her temper, Rong Dai gently pulled at her clothes. With her 30 years as an empress she knew better.


    The owner was using them to promote her shop. Whether it was good or bad, only attention mattered, which was better than being ignored.


    Most visitors here bought ready-made products, only a few embroiderers came to buy supplies.


    "Don''t waste your breath on her. Any expert can see the quality, we''re just stating facts. Why get so angry?" Rong Dai said lightly, her dark eyes gleaming yet cold, implying deeper meaning in her words.


    Any expert could tell good from bad. If she still fell for it after what was said, she would be pping her own face. Who didn''t want to gain face in front of friends and family?


    Seeing so many people watching, even taking photos, Huo Mei Shu understood and turned green with anger.


    Rong Dai sighed inwardly. She had told those criticizing her online to read the Analects. It seemed she needed a refresher herself.


    A slip of the tongue could lead to endless disasters, the saying was not baseless.


    If she hadn''tmented on the shop''s goods so quickly, they wouldn''t be in this mess.


    "You''re talking like you''re the expert. Go away if you can''t afford it, stop pretending here! I was going easy on you, now leave, leave!" The owner rebutted, hearing the implication in Rong Dai''s words.


    Rong Dai didn''t want to haggle with this kind of person, but Huo Mei Shu was easily provoked. At the owner''s words, she bristled again!


    "Can''t afford it? That crappy embroidery isn''t even worthy of wiping my feet!"


    Huo Mei Shu yelled hoarsely, throwing etiquette to the wind. As she shouted, she took out the handkerchief Rong Dai embroidered and disyed it to the owner.


    "Open your bean-sized eyes and look closely! This is true embroidery! Yours is shoddy work! I bet it''s a failed machine embroidery!"


    Rong Dai almost wanted to cover her face. The youngdy stillcked experience, rising to the bait so easily.


    The owner wasn''t ignorant either. Seeing the handkerchief, the fabric was excellent, the embroidery exquisite. She reached to touch it.


    "Get your pig hands away! As if you''re worthy of touching this!"


    Huo Mei Shu was in a terrible mood, unleashing personal attacks.


    The owner''s face immediately darkened as she red at them. "Apologize! You spouted nonsense, ndering my shop, causing me to lose customers. If you don''t apologize,pensate me! Otherwise I''m calling the police!"


    This made Huo Mei Shu want tough derisively. There were still people so shameless!


    Rong Dai was also very surprised. She actually demandedpensation from them?


    "Shameless hag! Have some self-respect! Who would care about your rundown shop? With so many good things in this mall, only a blind person would look twice at your goods!"


    Huo Mei Shu said coldly.


    "Go ahead, call the police! We''ll check the surveince footage! Loss of customers, asking forpensation? You''ve gone mad with greed!"


    "If not for your baseless nder in front of my shop, my embroidery would have sold! I only ask for a littlepensation. Yet you attack me aggressively! Who willpensate my losses? You pretend to be experts, spouting nonsense here, who would dare shop here now?" The owner rebutted angrily and aggrieved.


    Huo Mei Shu was so furious she wanted to curse. Rong Dai was afraid she would make herself sick from anger. The more they yelled, the more it favored the owner.


    The words were dangerous, not everyone saw what happened earlier.


    "Don''t be angry, wait for me over there." She gently patted Huo Mei Shu''s shoulder, gesturing for her to wait aside.


    She didn''t want to waste time buying things getting caught up in this.


    "Youngdy, may I see that handkerchief? The embroidery looks exquisite."


    As the sisters-inw spoke, a refined elderlydy with snowy white hair, dressed in silk cheongsam, minimal makeup, emerged from the crowd.


    Before Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu could react, someone screamed, "Granny Shi Yue!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes widened. She quickly searched on her phone,pared the photos, also getting excited. "It really is Master Shi Yue!"


    Rong Dai was confused, seeing the well-dressed, elegant olddy walking over with a kindly expression. She noticed even the owner''s arrogance had deted.


    Clearly a very famous person, or the crowd wouldn''t be so thrilled.


    "G-Granny Shi Yue." Huo Mei Shu stammered excitedly.


    "I recognize you, isn''t your grandmother out touring?" Granny Shi Yue smiled kindly, gaze sweeping over Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu was overjoyed that Granny actually knew Shi Yue, a leading figure in bringing Chinese embroidery fashion onto the runway.


    "Y-yes!" She quickly nodded, squeezing Rong Dai''s hand tightly in excitement.


    Rong Dai stood to the side calmly, also very poised, emanating a tranquil grace, not interrupting.


    "May I see the handkerchief? The embroidery looks remarkable."


    Shi Yue asked Huo Mei Shu, who immediately handed it over. Rong Dai sighed inwardly, she shouldn''t havemented at the shop entrance earlier.


    "The embroidery is exquisite, needing decades of skill. It hasn''t been washed, meaning the embroiderer didn''t trace the design. Of course, such skill is expected of the Huo family."


    "That''s right, I was watching...Ow!"


    In her excitement, Huo Mei Shu nearly revealed Rong Dai. Rong Dai aptly pinched her.


    The elderlydy''s eyes were sharp, able to discern her embroidery skill with one look. This wouldn''t be easy to hide from the Huo family.


    These skills were ingrained in her soul, even if she wanted to, she couldn''t make inferior work.


    "You watched and embroidered it?" Shi Yue was puzzled, handing the handkerchief back.


    "No no, I just, just...borrowed it from my mom to look at." Huo Mei Shu quickly exined through the pain.


    Shi Yue didn''t seem disappointed. A prestigious house like the Huo''s could produce such quality embroidery.


    She nodded, gazing sharply at the double-sided embroidery in the owner''s disy. "You know the quality of your goods. These youngdies spoke truthfully. Isn''t it too much to pester them so?"


    The owner''s face instantly paled. She quickly apologized to Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu.

 Chapter 90: Taken Advantage Of

    <h4>Chapter 90</h4>


    "Thank you Grandma Shi. Otherwise my sister-inw and I would have been in trouble," said Rong Dai hurriedly to thank Shi Lao after the onlookers had dispersed. Dai Rong also nodded along at her side.


    "There are all kinds of people gathered here, both treasures and trash. You should judge for yourselves. Saying certain things will lead to trouble in crowded ces like this. Wherever there are crowds, there are bound to be disputes. If everyone was selling treasures, things like this wouldn''t happen. Everyone has their own way of making a living, understand?" Shi Lao nodded and spoke to them earnestly.


    Rong Dai nodded again and again. Dai Rong felt a mix of crying andughing inside. She had really messed up here.


    She had been so cautious in her previous life, but aftering here, whether it was because she had let down her guard, she kept making silly mistakes one after another.


    "Thank you Grandma Shi. I wille to your door and thank you properly after my grandmaes back."


    Rong Dai was like a totally different person now, well-behaved and sensible.


    Shi Lao didn''t ask anything more. She justughed and left.


    Dai Rong watched her leave and saw a girl about their age with flowing hair and dressed in elegant ssical attire going to support her. The girl was talking to Shi Lao and nced in their direction.


    "Who''s that person?" Dai Rong asked. She actually wanted to find out about Shi Ying''s background, but didn''t want to look her up on her phone with Rong Dai around.


    Rong Dai took a nce. "That''s Shi Ning, her granddaughter. She took Shi Lao''s surname. I heard she learned the true lineage of Shi Lao''s embroidery skills. There was news onlinest year that Jinxiu Store was going to organize a personal exhibition for Shi Ning, but there''s been no updates since..."


    Dai Rong listened carefully and took note in her heart.


    Other than that little episode, the sisters-inw enjoyed their shopping trip very much. Dai Rong bought most of what she wanted. But the majority came from Jinxiu Store because of their excellent quality andplete range of products.


    Jinxiu Store was huge and had multiple outlets. The two didn''t run into Shi Lao and her granddaughter again.


    "I''m exhausted. Sister-inw, are your feet okay? Let''s find a ce to sit and eat something. I''m tired and hungry."


    Rong Dai didn''t understand these things. She just knew those embroidered items looked good, but after looking at too many she was worn out.


    On the other hand, Dai Rong was knowledgeable about them. She was already familiar with these things, so she was very engaged in browsing, finding the tools she wanted as well as discovering many improved tools from modern times. There were also some convenient tools that didn''t exist in her previous life.


    And those sewing machines - they delighted her. No wonder machine embroidery could be done so well too. It was just a pity that machine embroiderycked spiritual energy.


    For an embroidery mistress, not only must her skills be good, her works must also contain spiritual energy to be considered top grade.


    After making this round, she had incurred another 700,000 to 800,000 in debt.


    Dai Rong felt very troubled, but these purchases were worth it to her.


    Seeing that Rong Dai really looked exhausted, she nodded. The two went to a dessert shop and ordered drinks and some exquisite desserts.


    "Sister-inw, I''m going to the restroom."


    Right after their order was ced, Rong Dai had to rush off to the toilet urgently. Dai Rong nodded and sat quietly in her chair, gazing at the fairly well-made desserts in front of her.


    Sitting alone quietly like this, she was still beautiful and charming even without any makeup on. Especially the elegance andposure she exuded that particrly attracted people.


    In the short time Rong Dai took to go to the toilet ande back, she saw a foreigner with high nose bridge and big eyes chatting up Dai Rong.


    With her fiery temper, she would have normally gone up and hit the person already. This was her sister-inw! How could she let someone steal her brother''s woman!


    But as she approached, she paused and a cunning look shed in her eyes. She took out her phone and snapped a few pictures of the two before gleefully sending them to Huo Shao Ting.


    "Dai Rong," she deliberately didn''t call her sister-inw and addressed her by name instead.


    The foreigner chatting up Dai Rong immediately had a gleam in his eyes. His two otherpanions also walked over.


    Dai Rong''s brows furrowed. She had been startled just now, but she had seen some foreigners before in her previous life, like Persians and Kunlun ves.


    Although rare, she had still remotely received their envoys during court audiences in the pce.


    But this was her first time seeing foreign men with such different skin color up close, and she was surprised that this man''s irises were blue.


    "Hey beauty! Let''s be friends! We''ll treat you to a meal!" One of the ck men came up and put his hand on Dai Rong''s shoulder, speaking broken Chinese.


    Rong Dai had only wanted to stimte her brother a little to improve his rtionship with his wife. She didn''t expect these people to take advantage of Dai Rong!


    "Damn you, looking to die! Get your hand off her!"


    She kicked the man, causing him to stumble. The three foreign men''s expressions changed instantly, a fierce and greedy look shing in their eyes.


    Dai Rong''splexion also changed, her eyes cold.


    "Anyone who dares to touch again, try it! Let''s see if your neck is harder than my knife is fast!"


    Dai Rong''s face sank as she grabbed the iron fork from the table for eating desserts and pointed it at the three men. Rong Dai also swiftly grabbed a fork and pointed it at them. Seeing the situation, the dessert shop owner immediately called for mall security.


    Rong Dai exined the incident clearly and in detail.


    The three men were promptly escorted out of the shop by security. Dai Rong felt very uneasy, her face still gloomy and icy.


    "Damn inauspicious! Next time I go out I''ll bring some anti-wolf spray! Do they think anyone can strike up a conversation? Are they blind?"


    Rong Dai was about to explode from anger.


    After this incident, Dai Rong was no longer in the mood.


    "Forget it, let''s go somewhere else. How about I bring you to eat hotpot? It''s about time for lunch now too."


    Seeing that she was in a bad mood, Rong Dai changed the topic to divert her attention.


    Dai Rong was willing to try anything novel, so she nodded. The two drove to another mall to eat hotpot.


    At this moment, Huo Shao Ting received Rong Dai''s message while spacing out in his office, his mind asionally drifting back to the scene fromst night.


    Through the ss window, Assistant Zhang silently added another stroke to the unfinished character �� he was writing, damn it.


    Usually the CEO was absolutely meticulous about work, yet today he kept absentmindedly daydreaming. The CEO behaving this way could only mean he was lovesick.


    Huo Shao Ting swiped open his phone to see it was a message from Rong Dai, with the caption: A foreign prince charming, my sister-inw''s charm is boundless!


    Seeing the photo, his expression immediately darkened. He abruptly stood up, grabbed his suit jacket and headed out.


    Assistant Zhang hurried out of his office to catch up and ask: "CEO, is there anything you need me to do?"


    "I''m going out for a meal." He nced at his watch; it was time for lunch.


    "But the expert is arriving soon. Isn''t CEO going to wait?" Zhang was at a loss.


    "Reschedule to the afternoon." Huo Shao Ting replied softly, already calling Dai Rong.

 Chapter 91: No Action, No Death.

    <h4>Chapter 91</h4>


    Zhang the assistant was dumbfounded, staring nkly as Huo Shao Ting took the private elevator down, and had no choice but to take out his phone to call the experts tomunicate.


    Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu, the two of them had their moods disrupted by those three foreigners, and had just driven to the ce to eat when Rong Dai received a call from Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting, is there something?" Although she was in a bad mood, her voice was still soft and gentle. She would not vent her frustrations on innocent people around her, and did not want Huo Shao Ting to worry because of this.


    Hearing her voice, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help but lift the corners of his mouth into a smile. The emptiness he had felt all morning was finally filled by that "Shao Ting".


    "I have two hours free during lunch break," he said, implying very clearly.


    Rong Dai was clever enough to immediately understand the meaning behind his words. She carefully covered the phone and turned to look at Huo Mei Shu in confusion.


    Only then did Huo Mei Shu remember that she seemed to have sent him some photos earlier...


    Helplessly, Rong Dai could only ask him, "Have you had lunch? Mei Shu and I are at Wansheng, we n to have hot pot. Do you want toe?"


    "I''ll be there soon," Huo Shao Ting answered swiftly, in great spirits.


    Looking at the darkened phone screen, Rong Dai felt a little helpless, still remembering the awkwardness fromst night.


    "What did you say to your brother just now? He''sing to eat with us."


    Huo Mei Shu shrugged innocently. "I just sent him some photos, that''s all."


    Rong Dai: "..." Was she trying to make things even more chaotic?


    But she could understand the little sister''s kind intentions, and didn''t say much more. The sisters-inw went upstairs together to find a restaurant.


    The interior decor of the hot pot restaurant was very Sichuan style, and the name was also very artistic - "Bashan Night Rain". There were also two lines of poetry on both sides: You ask when I will return, but there is no set time; Bashan''s night rain swells the autumn pond.


    The two entered a windowside private room in the restaurant. Rong Dai sniffed the spicy aromas in the restaurant, and her stomach couldn''t help but growl loudly.


    In her past life she was the Empress, and when the Emperor didn''te to apany her for meals, she would be alone facing a dozen exquisite dishes.


    She really liked this kind of atmosphere of eating together, it felt more human, more full of the breath of life.


    Perhaps it was because she had been so lonely in her past life that she would feel this way, and cherished these moments even more.


    Before entering the pce in her past life, she had often been able to eat hot pot with her parents and siblings at home. She still had vivid memories of that vor today.


    Unfortunately after entering the Prince''s estate and then the pce, she never tasted it again. The food in the pce was good but the etiquette was strict, without the slightest transgression allowed.


    She remembered once she ate two extra bites of a delicious purple rice steamed cake, and that cake was never served at her meals again for a whole year afterwards.


    Looking back now, eating in the pce was just like horses eating in the stables - simply to fill the stomach, not to enjoy the vor.


    "Sister-inw, this hot pot here is the most authentic and delicious I''ve had in the entire Shenjing! You''ll definitely like it."


    Huo Mei Shu was the kind of person who could easily forget troubles. She happily ordered food with the menu in hand.


    "I want beef tripe, fatty beef,mb''s lettuce, duck intestines..."


    Listening to her recite these dishes, Rong Dai couldn''t help but swallow her saliva. Eating spicy hot pot in summer, dripping with sweat and breathing fire, that was true vor.


    "What does your brother like to eat? He has a delicate stomach, he can''t eat spicy food right?" Rong Dai looked at the menu, first ordering some vegetables. She remembered Huo Shao Ting could even get a stomachache from eating noodles, and they were having hot pot on top of that.


    "He''s fine with clear soup bases, my brother isn''t picky actually, but he absolutely can''t eat any wheat or soy products from outside. He''d have to make the spicy pot himself."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at the hot pot table longingly. Otherwise she could have ordered a vegetable noodle dish too.


    Rong Dai nodded, carefully avoiding thesendmines, and kept it in mind.


    "If I had known, I wouldn''t have sent it to him. It''s so rare that I have someone to go out for hot pot with..." Huo Mei Shu looked at the menu being taken away longingly, full of regret.


    "It''s alright, we can make it ourselves at home next time. I''ll figure out how to make rice thread noodles, handmade noodles with more chew would be even better for hot pot."


    Rong Dai reassured her, and Huo Mei Shu immediately smiled brightly with nods. She certainly hadn''t forgotten the taste of those dumplingsst night, she even drank up all the soup.


    When the dishes were served, Huo Shao Ting arrived as well.


    The private room had been quite spacious originally, but with his nearly 1.9 meter tall frame entering, it instantly felt cramped.


    Rong Dai had prepared the dipping sauce for him. Seeing hime in already sweating on his forehead, she took some napkins from her bag and handed them to him: "Wipe off the sweat first."


    "Hey hey hey, I''m here to eat hot pot, not sour lemons! And there''s still a single person here!"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at them reproachfully. These two were progressing too swiftly!


    Rong Dai just smiled silently, using her chopsticks to ce food into the copper pot to cook.


    Huo Shao Ting sat down beside her, dissatisfied that there was too much space between them. He shifted his stool over several times until Huo Mei Shu was rolling her eyes at him.


    "Eat more vegetables."


    "Eat more meat, next time I''ll have good beef air shipped over."


    Huo Mei Shu: "..."


    She bit down on her chopsticks, watching this married couple attentively caring for each other back and forth. She, the living person here, had be invisible air. Her entire mouth felt sour.


    She was eating spicy hot pot! Not sour lemons!


    Despite her sourness, she was still very happy at heart. The three ate with great enjoyment.


    After eating their fill, while Rong Dai went to the bathroom, Huo Shao Ting stared at Huo Mei Shu to interrogate her.


    "Why would people try to chat up my wife and you didn''t stop them? As my sister, don''t you know to protect her a bit?"


    Huo Mei Shu felt this was unreasonable. She was very innocent okay? She just went to the bathroom!


    With Sister-inw''s looks, unless they were blind, who wouldn''t be attracted? Foreigners'' thinking was open in the first ce, she was also very helpless!


    Huo Mei Shu was determined not to mention what had happened just now. Otherwise those three people would definitely be found even if her brother had to dig three feet into the ground, and she would be screwed along with them.


    Before she could respond to Huo Shao Ting, they heard amotion and loud noises outside the private room.


    Huo Shao Ting immediately stood up and walked out. Huo Mei Shu was also worried something might happen. With her sister-inw''s face, ever since her transformation, her entire being radiated brilliance, more attractive than any big celebrity.


    If she was bothered by another shameless person, the consequences would be unimaginable. Her brother might even "kill" them.


    The siblings had just walked out, and saw Rong Dai blocked outside the hot pot restaurant. What rotten luck, it was those same three foreigners again!


    Could the world really be so small?


    In her heart, Huo Mei Shu could only mourn silently for the three men, perfectly demonstrating the idiom "if you don''t court death, you won''t die".


    They were given a chance at the dessert shop, but actually ran into them again here. And approaching her so audaciously.

 Chapter 92: A crown of Wrath becomes a beauty

    <h4>Chapter 92</h4>


    Rong Dai had not expected that during this meal, she would encounter these three ruffians who wanted to force her into a private room with them.


    How could she possibly go with them? And she couldn''t understand theirmunication with each other. Trapped here without her phone, she could only argue with them.


    "Beauty, don''t be so cold. We''re foreign friends too. Is this how you treat friends here?"


    The burly ck man spoke haltingly, but Rong Dai could understand him. His stern, icy expression was intimidating.


    "Confucius said, ''To have friendse from afar, is it not a joy?'' But this is inappropriate! I don''t know you, why should I eat with you?"


    Rong Dai''s face was cold, filled with disgust.


    She had never seen such shameless people before!


    No manners or upbringing at all!


    "Friends? She''s my wife!"


    Huo Shao Ting recognized one of them as the man in the photo. As he walked over, he unbuttoned his suit and tapped the ck man on the shoulder.


    The moment the ck man turned his head, he received a solid punch and was instantly knocked to the ground, his teeth flying out!


    Huo Mei Shu stared wide-eyed in shock, and quickly pulled Rong Dai to the side. Rong Dai was also dumbfounded, not expecting Huo Shao Ting to punch someone!


    "This is...righteous fury for the sake of a beauty! My brother always said, ''If you can solve it verbally, never use your fists, because no one can make him raise his hand.'' This guy...is lucky."


    Rong Dai was extremely anxious. It was dinnertime, with many people around, and some were already watching and taking photos.


    And Huo Shao Ting was an important figure. How could he openly brawl like this?


    "You still have the mood to joke? This is..."


    "Don''t worry, I have to give my brother a chance to perform, otherwise how will your rtionship progress? Besides, people like this deserve to be taught a lesson! This is Huaxia territory. They should know better than to cause trouble on our doorstep!"


    Huo Mei Shu pulled her along, giving her a very calm look to indicate she should remain steady.


    Rong Dai was exasperated, that just going out to shop and eat could bring such trouble.


    Huo Shao Ting struck quickly and ruthlessly. He worked out regrly and was taught fighting by world boxing champions. Though the three men were muscr, they were no match for his fists, and were quickly beaten down.


    After dealing with them, Huo Shao Ting felt extremely refreshed. He tidied his suit and calmly looked down at the three men. He took a ck business card with gold lettering from his pocket and tossed it on the ground, speaking coldly, "I''m Huo Shao Ting. You''ve harassed my wife repeatedly today. If you''re not convinced, you''re wee to visit mywyer team at the Huo Corporation."


    Dazed from the beating, the three men still recognized Huo Shao Ting''s name. Seeing the ck business card made them go cold.


    Offending Huo Shao Ting meant their family businesses might never expand into Huaxia.


    "My brother is so cool and handsome!"


    Huo Mei Shu gave him a thumbs up, cheering like a fangirl. This was the first time she had seen her brother be so cool!


    Huo Shao Ting nced at her. "Go settle the bill and take the things home."


    "Oh..." Huo Mei Shu stuck out her tongue and hurried back into the store.


    "Are you okay? Does your hand hurt?"


    Rong Dai was not concerned about his coolness, but whether he was injured. With Huo Mei Shu gone, she quickly grabbed his hand to check. Seeing only slight redness and no wounds, she finally rxed.


    "You''re so rash. There were three of them!" Rong Dai felt pained but also warmed, still a bit anxious and worried.


    The three men had frightened her with their physique, yet he dared to confront them alone.


    "Ten men would be no problem." Seeing her anxious yet caring expression, Huo Shao Ting instantly felt wonderful, as if he could take on twenty more!


    "Hey, spare a thought for how I feel!" Huo Mei Shu looked at them resentfully, she had just gone to settle the bill, and now felt like a lemon beside the lemon tree again.


    "Brother, if you don''t ask Assistant Zhang to handle this quickly, sister-inw might be trending online for fifty, sixty, seventy, eighty, ny days straight. And possibly branded a vixen for making a prominent CEO beat people in public. This is big news."


    Hearing Huo Mei Shu''s words, Rong Dai also became worried, looking at the three men resentfully.


    She walked forward and admonished them angrily, "Huaxia is a civilized, friendly nation. We wee cultured gentlemen, not ruffians like you. I hope you learn from this lesson after harassing me repeatedly today!"


    Seeing her stand up for him, Huo Shao Ting gazed at her tenderly, while Huo Mei Shu rolled her eyes at their ignoring her words.


    The mall security guards soon arrived due to themotion. Recognizing Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai, who had trended online before, they had taken videos which were already circting.


    After viewing the videos, the guards felt that while punching people was wrong, they would have done the same to protect their wife from harassment.


    Huo Mei Shu paid to obtain a copy of the video from a kind bystander. The three of them then left the mall.


    "I''ll take you home first, get in." Rong Dai had wanted to ride with Huo Mei Shu since Huo Shao Ting had to return to work, but he called her back before she could leave.


    "Brother, no need to be so jealous. I would never have designs on sister-inw, right?" Huo Mei Shuughed helplessly, realizing what kind of brother he was!


    "That''s hard to say." Huo Shao Ting responded mildly.


    Huo Mei Shu: "..."


    She was a proper woman! With very normal preferences!


    But Huo Shao Ting didn''t give her a chance to retort, driving off directly.


    Their cars left the garage one after the other, just missing Shi Ning who was arriving.


    Not finding them in the mall, Shi Ning had called the friend she was meeting for dinner, but a security guard had answered.


    She rushed over and was shocked to see the three men''s battered state. "What on earth happened?"


    "Miss, I think watching the video will be most direct. They''ve had teeth punched out so talking might be hard now."


    The guard had also obtained copies of the video as evidence and immediately showed Shi Ning.


    Shi Ning watched in confusion, seeing they had harassed Rong Dai, then was even more surprised when Huo Shao Ting appeared and punched them.


    But she also knew they could only silently eat the loss. Of all people, they just had to provoke Huo Shao Ting.


    With this video, Huo Shao Ting could easily have them deported. Let alone continuing business in Huaxia.

 Chapter 93: The Characters on the Jade Wear

    <h4>Chapter 93</h4>


    "Shao Ting, will everything really be okay?"


    Back at the Huo residence, Rong Dai still felt uneasy in her heart. Those three people went too far, but she was worried seeing them beaten like that.


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand gently, "Everything will be fine, if I can��t even handle this little thing, how can I protect you?"


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly, her cheeks flushed, and she quickly pulled her hand back, "I, I''ll go down first."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her fleeing figure with a deep smile, not saying anything. He sat in the car and called Assistant Zhang to handle the matter, then also got out of the car and entered the house.


    "Aren''t you going to thepany?" Rong Dai was puzzled when she saw hime in as well, and asked.


    "I''ll take a shower and change my clothes. I can��t go to meetings smelling like hot pot." He stepped forward and touched her cheek gently, his voice as gentle as if he was coaxing a child.


    "Oh my god! Big brother and sister-inw, can you spare me? My teeth are going to fall out from the sweetness today! Know some restraint!"


    Huo Mei Shu had just entered and saw the intimate couple. She leaned against the door frame with one hand on her forehead, eyes rolling as if they were twitching.


    "Go on now." Rong Dai was startled and her face turned red. She hurriedly dodged his hand and urged him.


    Huo Shao Ting was very satisfied as he went upstairs to take a shower and change clothes. Just to spite Huo Mei Shu, he stole a kiss in front of her before leaving. Huo Mei Shu was so angry she wanted to bite someone!


    If she had known her big brother was like this, she wouldn''t have meddled. Now she had made herself feel bitter!


    Rong Dai also didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to be like this. Although he was gentle and considerate, he was clingy enough.


    But she didn''t feel reluctant in her heart at all. Her heart felt like it had fallen into a honey jar, sweet and warm.


    Probably because in her previous life, the Emperor had no so-called love for her. His love was only for the Imperial Concubine, he had only used her. Of course he would not devote himself to her wholeheartedly like Huo Shao Ting.


    She no longer thought about divorcing or not divorcing now. This year, she would live well with Huo Shao Ting.


    "Sister-inw, can you please not have that dreamy look on your face? You two make me feel so sad, have some consideration for me."


    Huo Mei Shu sat on the sofa, deliberately revealing a intive look at her from the bottom of her eyes.


    Although Rong Dai was still not used to Huo Mei Shu''s open personality, she was gradually epting it. She immediately smiled, "Then you should hurry up and find a boyfriend to make us feel bitter too."


    "Don''t mention it. The fallen flower is sentimental, while the flowing water is merciless..." As she said this, Huo Mei Shu looked even more intive, sighing as she gazed at the ceiling.


    Rong Dai''s eyes lit up. From her tone, the young aunt seemed to have someone she was interested in?


    "Mei Shu, Mei Shu... Big brother isn''t home right? And sister-inw you''re here too."


    The sisters-inw were talking when Huo Shao Jie poked his head in the door stealthily, asking the two of them in a lowered voice.


    Huo Mei Shuughed unrestrainedly on the spot. Huo Shao Jie''s face immediately turned gloomy. It looked like big brother was not home.


    "Shao Jie."


    Thinking of this young uncle''s drunken state, Rong Dai was at a loss for words. But as the eldest sister-inw, she could not speak of such improper behavior, she just calmly greeted him.


    "It''s good that you''re here sister-inw. I''ve been waiting for you these past few days, I''m about to go crazy!" Huo Shao Jie alsoined like a resentful woman, seizing the chance to pour out his troubles to her.


    Rong Dai was rendered speechless by the two siblings. Her face remained tranquil as she asked him, "Is there some issue with the script?"


    Huo Shao Jie shook his head, "There''s nothing wrong with the script. I''ll have someone send over all your parts in the script tomorrow. There are still some misceneous things that need to be sorted out. We need to get these costumes made quickly based on your sketches. This is the contract, it''s already been discussed with the crew."


    "This is the copyright contract, take a look first. If you think it''s not enough, I''ll try to negotiate more with the investors."


    Huo Shao Jie had really suffered these past few days. He had never been beaten since he was little, yet he got whipped by his mother when he was almost thirty. If this got out, he would lose all face.


    He had been avoiding his big brother these past few days, wanting to seize any chance to get the contract signed.


    Rong Dai nodded and carefully looked over the contract, also getting Huo Mei Shu to help her review it.


    "Although I don''t really understand the market rate, and sister-inw doesn''t have much fame, this price still seems fair. If you raise it further, I''m afraid your investors won''t be too happy."


    Huo Mei Shu said very equitably.


    Hearing this, Rong Dai nodded and briskly asked him for a pen to sign.


    Luckily in her previous life at Shangyuan Pce, there were some small foreign objects that had been brought in. Those feather pens used for dipping ink to write were one of those things.


    The writing method was simr to this modern world''s, otherwise she really would have had to find a brush to sign with.


    Seeing Rong Dai sign the contract briskly, Huo Shao Jie felt a huge weight lift off his shoulders. After taking the sketches, he fled the Huo residence like a thief, asking Rong Dai to keep in touch with him.


    After Huo Shao Jie left, Rong Dai went upstairs to watch the dramas that Jiang Ling had told her to look at. Huo Mei Shu was busy preparing for her private music concert.


    Huo Mei Shu sat at the desk, looking at the guest list she had prepared earlier. One person''s name had been crossed out and rewritten, and after thinking about it, she added the name back again.


    It would be great if he really coulde...


    At the Huo Group headquarters, in Huo Shao Ting''s office.


    The expert who had been left waiting for an afternoon immediately stood up when Huo Shao Ting entered.


    "Boss, this is Mr. Huang, an expert in archaeology and jade appraisal, with great authority and experience."


    Assistant Zhang quickly introduced him.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, very gentlemanly giving a slight nod, "Then I''ll have to trouble Mr. Huang."


    "It''s my duty." Although Mr. Huang felt a little annoyed that Huo Shao Ting had left him waiting for an afternoon, he knew very clearly what kind of figure Huo Shao Ting was in Shengjing. How could he possibly still be angry after seeing him show up in person? If anything, he was overjoyed.


    Assistant Zhang immediately brought over the ink jade pendant. Huo Shao Ting sat to the side watching without speaking.


    Mr. Huang was very professional, bringing along a bunch of professional testing equipment. He first connected to hisptop, then put on gloves before taking out the jade pendant from the box to examine it carefully.


    He input data into theputer, typing for almost half an hour. His eyes revealed an extremely surprised look.


    "This ink jade...is very rare."


    Mr. Huang nced at him, then carefully ced the jade back into the box. With slightly knitted brows, he asked Huo Shao Ting, "I wonder if Mr. Huo believes in the idea of parallel spatial dimensions?"


    Huo Shao Ting frowned. He had asked someone to appraise the jade, not lecture him on physics.


    "ording to some data tests, the space we live in is parallel with multiple spaces. In some special circumstances, holes can appear in this parallelism, allowing things from another space-time to fall into our space."


    "Mr. Huo, please look, there are words carved on this pendant. This is not oracle bone script or bronze script, but looks simr to Qin seal script. I have been studying this - if these two characters are tranted into simplified script, they are Rong Dai."


    Mr. Huang fiddled with theputer as he exined earnestly.

 Chapter 94: Kamiuchi Empire

    <h4>Chapter 94</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes darkened, and he immediately walked over to look at the two characters tranted on theputer.


    Why was her name on the jade pendant?


    "This is what I''ve been researching for most of my life. I have found quite a few relevant records all over the country. Mr. Huo, please take a look..."


    Huang the expert did not notice his change of expression and showed him some of the rted cultural relics he had found before on hisputer.


    "The ce where these two characters are carved is very hidden, but the device can detect it. I have studied their texts for a long time. It''s just a pity that I have studied it for so many years, China''s profound history and culture, these texts are only scattered ones, and there are only a hundred or so words."


    "There are no historical records about this dynasty, but some of the cultural relics from its historical periods are very exquisite, integrating the prosperous cultures of many Chinese dynasties. I did have some discoveries on the official seal of a piece of cdon before."


    "Mr. Huo, please take a look. Although the words on this official seal are blurred, after scanning and correction with instruments, and sorting them out, they can be tranted as the Shangyuan Empire. There are no documents recording this era in China''s history, and this dynasty has integrated too many things, making it impossible to determine its actual founding time."


    Huang talked eloquently, not forgetting to push his sses up his nose, looking at the ink jade in the box with burning eyes.


    The five thousand years of Chinese civilization did not have every period recorded, some disappeared without a trace, like dust, only some sporadic cultural relics prove they once existed.


    Huo Shao Ting looked thoughtful as he gazed at the ink jade. He did not expect this piece of jade he spent 100 million to buy to have such an origin.


    Zhang, the assistant, listened in confusion. Pointing at the ink jade, he asked Huang, "Mr. Huang, I didn''t understand what you meant. Is this thing Chinese or not?"


    Huang pushed his sses again, looked up at him, and said seriously and solemnly, "To be precise, this Shangyuan Empire did not exist in our current space-time. It existed in a certain spatial dimension and coincided with our space at a certain point in time, so it left these things behind. That''s why we can''t verify itsplete historical sites."


    Zhang was astonished at this. It was like nothing had been said.


    He simply shut up. As long as the president could understand it, it was fine.


    "If I fund your research into these things, can you get me some more valuable stuff?"


    Huo Shao Ting leaned back on the sofa with his long legs crossed.


    His wife had many secrets, and he wanted to understand her. This ink jade made him inexplicably uneasy for some reason.


    As soon as Huang heard this, his eyes lit up immediately.


    Over the years, he had searched all over the country for the history of this Shangyuan Empire, but with limited funding, he could only find very limited things.


    "Of course!"


    "What if I ask you to keep confidential all the information you investigate? ording to your statement, this Shangyuan Empire is actually a dynasty that never existed and cannot be written into history, right?"


    Huo Shao Ting asked back. His money was not so easy to get.


    Huang hesitated. He had spent so much effort on this and wanted to give people a chance to understand the world.


    But if he refused Huo Shao Ting, this "non-existent" history would be submerged. If he agreed, this history would not see the light of day.


    Seeing his hesitation, Huo Shao Ting stood up from the sofa. His office was huge. He walked to the floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the view of Shenjing.


    "Mr. Huang, you must know that a history that has never existed, even if you have sorted it out and found some evidence. But if you tell people that this history came from another space-time..."


    "Will people think of you as a genius or a madman?"


    He turned to look at him, his eyes sharp, unconsciously exerting pressure.


    No matter what this history was, no matter which space-time it came from, or how it coincided with their world.


    All he wanted to know was the origin of this ink jade, and what connection it and its owner had with his wife.


    If such coincidences of space-time could ur under certain circumstances, would such situations continue to appear in the future?


    He was more and more certain now that his wife was probably not the same person as the former Yandai, or it could be said that they were two different souls.


    The change was too great, with many strange things that could not be exined.


    Especially what happenedst night, which made him feel this way more and more clearly.


    The drawer clearly contained what she needed, but fromst night''s situation, she did not seem to know.


    If he could not get a very definite answer to this matter, he would feel uneasy.


    After listening to his words, Huang''s face turned slightly pale. Finally, he lowered his head in frustration for several minutes.


    "If that''s the case, how much is Mr. Huo willing to fund?"


    He was actually being wishful thinking, but the origin of this Shangyuan Empire was too bizarre. First, archaeologists had no way to determine which dynasty it was exactly.


    Second, this involved other disciplines, the span was toorge, and with these fragmentary things, it was really impossible to prove.


    "50 million yuan, and if morepelling evidence can be found, the funding can be increased." Huo Shao Ting''s voice was light.


    Huang took a deep breath and nodded in agreement.


    As he was packing up and about to leave, he suddenly asked Huo Shao Ting, "Mr. Huo, why are you interested in this? Huo Group is not involved in these things."


    "Mr. Huang, if I were you, I wouldn''t be interested in my employer''s affairs." Huo Shao Ting nced at him coldly, then motioned for Zhang the assistant to escort the man out.


    After Zhang escorted the man away, Huo Shao Ting sat in his office with his brows slightly furrowed. He hoped Yandai would tell him the truth.


    But he couldn''t force her either. As the head of a huge enterprise like Huo Group, he was perceptive enough to sense that Yandai was still guarded against him.

 Chapter 95: Here Comes the Sinner

    <h4>Chapter 95</h4>


    Rong Dai did not know that Huo Shao Ting had already be suspicious of everything about her. She only wanted to spend the rest of this year as happily as she could with Huo Shao Ting.


    The sister-inw had been busy with their own things at home for about an hour when Mrs. Wang hurried upstairs to call them down.


    "Mrs. Wang, I told you not to disturb me when I''m working..."


    When Huo Mei Shu opened the door and saw it was Mrs. Wang, she was a little annoyed.


    "Miss, Old Mrs. Wen from the Wen family is here, and she brought awyer with her. I''ve already called Madam and asked her toe back quickly. The Madam has gone downstairs already."


    Mrs. Wang looked anxious. She also knew a little about the things online. Who could have thought that the young miss from the Wen family would be so vicious?


    "Calling my mom back is useless. Call my big brother back, that''s useful. Mrs. Wang, go call my big brother. I''ll go down and stand up for my sister-inw. I hate that olddy from the Wen family the most."


    As soon as Huo Mei Shu heard this, her expression changed instantly. She instructed Mrs. Wang while heading downstairs.


    Rong Dai was already sitting in the living room. Old Mrs. Wen looked very spirited, but Rong Dai could tell with one nce that this olddy was not a good person.


    "Mrs. Wen, how do you have time toe to such a remote ce in my family?" Although Huo Mei Shu had a smiling face when she came down, her words were barbed.


    Having been in the imperial harem for thirty years, how could Rong Dai not understand the meaning behind her words?


    She also knew that the olddy from the Wen family must be here for no good reason, most likely because of Wen Shi Lan''s affairs.


    She didn''t interrupt. Her eyes inconspicuously sized up the olddy.


    It was obvious that Old Mrs. Wen was a little surprised when Huo Mei Shu came downstairs. Clearly, she did not expect that Huo Mei Shu would be home.


    At the same time, Rong Dai also felt a little heavy at heart. It seemed that the Wen family had been keeping an eye on her life.


    They wanted toe "pay a visit" when the Huo family members were not at home. Their intentions were quite deep.


    She had investigated Rong Dai''s background and found nothing. This time, it was Shi Lan who had not done a perfect job and got caught, which was just bad luck for the Wen family.


    But the decades of friendship between the Wen family and the Huo family, could it really notpare to a Rong Dai?


    Huo Shao Ting was not a shallow person who could be fooled by a pretty face.


    After she analyzed the pros and cons, how could the Huo family still side with this woman who did not know her ce?


    Before the olddy could finish speaking, Huo Mei Shu sat down next to Rong Dai. How ridiculous! This was her home, yet this olddy wanted to y the host?


    Even without the olddy saying it, she already knew what she was here for.


    Other than Wen Shi Lan''s troubles, what else could it be?


    The olddy was not embarrassed. After all, she had lived to such an old age and would not get angry over such trivial matters.


    Her gaze looked up and down at Rong Dai, with a rather satisfied smile on her face and in her eyes, as if Rong Dai was their Wen family''s daughter-inw.


    "That boy Shao Ting is lucky to have married such a pretty wife." The olddy spoke, looking at Rong Dai meaningfully. No wonder her Shi Lan had lost.


    "Thank you for yourpliment, Granny Wen. But I don''t think the word ''pretty'' suits my sister-inw. I think my sister-inw is a country-toppling beauty."


    Huo Mei Shu would not stand for it and immediately retorted, hugging Rong Dai''s arm.


    Who cared about this damn "pretty"?


    Rong Dai was crying andughing inside. This little sister-inw was first ss at protecting her loved ones, biting back at every word.


    Old Mrs. Wen immediately snorted coldly upon being countered by Huo Mei Shu in this way. The look in her eyes showed dissatisfaction and hostility.


    Even with her tolerance, being attacked by Huo Mei Shu again and again like this was unbearable, let alone the fact that she hade today for proper business.


    She had only wanted to take the opportunity to talk to Rong Dai while the Huo family was away, and the matter would be settled.


    But since the Huo family was home, Huo Shao Ting would surely be back very soon too.


    Then there was no need for her to beat around the bush anymore. In any case, she had alreadye to their door, so how could the Huo family not even give her this bit of face?


    She had investigated Rong Dai''s background and found nothing. It was just Shi Lan who had not done a perfect job this time and got caught, which was just bad luck for their Wen family.


    But the decades of friendship between the Wen family and Huo family, could it really not outweigh a Rong Dai?


    Huo Shao Ting was not a shallow person who could be fooled by a pretty face.


    After she analyzed the pros and cons, how could the Huo family still take the side of this woman who did not know her ce?


    Huo Mei Shu could barely hold in her anger after hearing this. Fortunately, Rong Dai was sitting next to her and lightly patted the back of her hand to signal her to remain calm.


    She looked up at Old Mrs. Wen with a faint smile, dignified and tranquil.


    "I will take Granny Wen''s words as a warning."


    Old Mrs. Wen immediately let out a cold snort. The look in her eyes showed dissatisfaction and hostility.


    Rong Dai could see all this clearly, but she found itughable.


    This olddy had obviously not figured out the situation. This was the Huo family, not the Wen family.


    "I wonder if Granny has read a poem called ''Visiting Jinmen''? It''s a very good poem that my grandmother often tells me to read more. I think it''s quite nice and feel that Granny Wen would like it too."


    As soon as she said this, Old Mrs. Wen''s expression turned ugly and she scolded Rong Dai coldly, "Are you implying that I''m meddling? As an elder, can I not teach you a lesson?"


    Rong Dai still had a faint smile and remainedposed. Then she instructed Mrs. Wang, "Mrs. Wang, I remember we still have some fresh lotus seeds. Please make a cup of tea for the elderly."


    "Don''t misunderstand me, Granny Wen. I didn''t mean that. It''s just a poem my grandmother often has me read. Since Granny Wen is an elder, I should share nice things with you too."


    She looked back at Old Mrs. Wen, her tone gentle and humble.


    Old Mrs. Wen''s expression darkened in anger, "You''re really sharp-tongued! No wonder the friendship between the Huo and Wen families has been ruined by you! I said Shao Ting has always been reasonable, so how could he be so heartless this time? Turns out you''re the one causing trouble!"


    Since Rong Dai was being impolite, and everyone understood why she hade today, the olddy no longer bothered to pretend.


    She red sharply at Rong Dai, full of authority, and rebuked her sternly.


    Seeing the olddy lose herposure so quickly, Rong Dai found it even moreughable inside.


    The Wen family and the Huo family did have a good friendship, but she was now the Huo family''s daughter-inw.


    Even if she was still an outsider to the Huo family, it would only be between her and the Huo''s loved ones.


    To them, the Wen family was also outsiders, and even more so than her.


    This olddy clearly had not figured out her own position, yet dared to scold others here. Her intellect was worrying. Having lived to this age yet still being so muddled.


    "Old Mrs. Wen, what do you mean by this? Did my sister-inw force Wen Shi Lan to harm her? My sister-inw is not crazy!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s temper red up instantly, her face flushed as she refuted.


    In any case, the Wen and Huo families had already torn their faces over this matter. Even if sister-inw was an outsider, she was still family. Who did this old hag think she was to run over and lecture them!

 Chapter 96: Nasty Old Things

    <h4>Chapter 96</h4>


    "When your grandmother first agreed to let Shaoting marry this woman into the family, I was against it from the start. If he had married Shi Lan instead, Rong Dai, look at yourself now - how could you have possibly ended up like this?"


    "It''s true that you be ck if you are near ink, and red if you are near cinnabar. Now you''ve learned to talk back to your elders, speaking without regard for propriety. You used to be such a gentle and well-behaved child."


    The old Wen matriarch was even colder upon being refuted by Huo Mei Shu like this, scolding them both.


    Huo Mei Shu was about tough from anger. Today was really bizarre - how could she encounter so many shameless people in a row?


    Rong Dai was also at a loss for words, experiencing firsthand the saying "How can Fang Du show such audacity, Xie Li is shamed."


    This old Wen matriarch was really not regarding herself as an outsider, scolding her was one thing, but she even scolded Huo Mei Shu together.


    Barging into someone else''s home to discipline their daughter-inw, she had really broadened her horizons today.


    "You''re mistaken. I have always been like this, speaking to others however they speak to me, using attitudes fitting for each person I face. Old Madam Wen, giving you the respect due to the elderly, I''ll call you Granny Wen, but don''t go thinking you really are my granny."


    "No matter what my sister-inw is like, she is still one of the Huo family. If you''vee today to give my sister-inw a hard time, the door is over there, see yourself out. I''m afraid I''ll anger you to death if you stay, that would be terrible luck!"


    Whenever someone provoked Huo Mei Shu, she would retaliate.


    Now Old Madam Wen had made her feel ufortable, so she spoke without considering propriety.


    Respecting elders was conditional.


    "You''re wasting time lecturing me and my sister-inw. I think you''d be better off going to the police station to see your sweet granddaughter - no, viper granddaughter. I think even vipers aren''t as vicious as Wen Shi Lan. At least snake venom can be countered with antiserum, but a vicious person like Wen Shi Lan is incurable."


    As Huo Mei Shu spoke, the old matriarch''s face grew darker and the sharp gaze in her old eyes became murderous.


    Her gaze fell on Rong Dai - she hade to find this woman, not Huo Mei Shu.


    "If she hadn''t done such shameful things herself, who could have harmed her? Shi Lan was only helping the Huo family see this woman''s true colors."


    "A woman with no background, just a pretty face - who knows how she lives? Your grandmother was too easily fooled, just agreeing to that woman''s requests. Shi Lan must have seen through this woman''s real motives, so she had no choice but to do what she did to save the Huo family!"


    The old matriarch''s words were also vicious, leaving no room for doubt. She looked at Rong Dai with contempt, even shamelessly singing Wen Shi Lan''s praises.


    Rong Daiughed internally. If the old matriarch had said this in her past life, she really would have no rebuttal.


    Ancient times had extremely harsh constraints on women, scrutinizing their every word and action.


    But this was different now, this was a new era where women stood equal to men.


    "Old Madam Wen, I don''t want to hear you say that."


    She signaled Huo Mei Shu to stay calm. Facing shameless people like this, she had ways to deal with them.


    "I have no background, just my appearance, but Shaoting and the Huo family epted me. No matter how many times Wen Shi Lan interfered in my marriage to Shaoting, I still want to know - is this behavior fitting for a youngdy with background and upbringing?"


    "Repeatedly seducing my husband, shamelessly trying to get into bed with him. Old Madam, tell me, does having background mean you can do whatever you want? Or does having background mean you can be shameless?"


    Seeing the old matriarch''s face be as ugly as if she''d choked on a dead rat, her own face was also cold, her manner imposing.


    "Old Madam Wen, from ancient times marriages valued virtue, taking concubines valued beauty. If Wen Shi Lan is willing to be a concubine, my husband is willing to ept that, so I won''t object. However, my husband is a man of moral integrity, the Huo family has face, he definitely won''t do such immoral things."


    Saying she would tolerate Wen Shi Lan bing her husband''s mistress was like a p in the face!


    "How can you say things like that!?" Hearing the word "concubine", the old matriarch''s eyes bulged as she pointed at Rong Dai, extremely angry.


    "Why can''t I? As the old saying goes, respect others'' elders as your own elders, and others'' young as your own young. If you were a guest in the Huo home today, I as a junior should do my utmost to amodate you."


    Rong Dai''s manner was cold, speaking rationally.


    "But since you came in the door you''ve only criticized me. This grudge is originally between me and Wen Shi Lan, I endured your couple rebukes to let you vent.


    But you even criticized Mei Shu together, questioning the Huo family''s upbringing. Even given the rtionship between the Wen and Huo families, pardon my interference, but you really have no right to teach us how to behave."


    "Furthermore, Wen Shi Lan incited others to harm and threaten my life. On this I will neverpromise. Also, my conduct is my own business and none of yours."


    Rong Dai was equally blunt with this kind of person.


    In her past life she had seen people like this too, she just had to consider her status and bear it silently back then, unable to speak her mind. Today this old Wen matriarch hade to humiliate herself through her own misfortune.


    "You''repletely unharmed now, aren''t you? How can you be so vicious? Do you want my Shi Lan to go to jail?"


    The old matriarch had been reprimanded into an ugly situation. With Huo Mei Shu backing her up and no rebuttal, she could only stubbornly cling to this point.


    "Money? Old Madam Wen, what do you mean, the Wen family has more money than the Huo family? Whatever amount my sister-inw wants, my elder brother can provide anytime. Or you could hand over the entire Wen family, then we might have something to discuss."


    "And my sister-inw is unharmed because we arrived in time, what does that have to do with your Wen family? Don''t shamelessly take credit here! I hate old folks like you most, relying on your age to bully people!"


    Huo Mei Shu wanted tough, secretly giving her sister-inw a big thumbs up.


    Usually this Wen old matriarch would throw her weight around due to her age and the Wen family''s standing in the capital, barging in to lecture any youngster who inadvertently offended her.


    What could those juniors do besides endure silently? Offending the Wen family could be trouble for their own families'' businesses.


    Now even the old matriarch herself probably hadn''t expected her sister-inw to be so formidable, directly humiliating her to her face.


    Rong Dai really wanted to facepalm. Could this girl not be more tactful?


    Speaking like this, the old matriarch must hate her to death now. Wouldn''t she find all kinds of ways to make things difficult for this girl in the future?

 Chapter 97: The Quilt Is Coming

    <h4>Chapter 97</h4>


    "You...you..."


    Wen Old Madam''s face suddenly turned pale. She pointed at the two of them, unable to speak for a long time. Then she leaned back and fell directly onto the sofa.


    "Old Madam!" Thewyer who hade with Wen Old Madam was so frightened that he shouted. He immediately took out his cell phone to make a call.


    Huo Mei Shu was also greatly shocked by this olddy''s sudden behavior. Could she really have been scared to death?


    But Rong Dai went up and snatched thewyer''s cell phone from him, throwing it on the ground. Her eyes were sinister and dignified as she swept him a nce. Her tone was cold, "Does fainting require making an emergency call? This is a waste of resources and is harming the lives of those who really need to be saved."


    Thewyer''s face turned pale. He didn''t expect Rong Dai to say this. And he was suppressed by Rong Dai''s momentum, unable to refute her for a moment with his mouth wide open.


    "Fainting?!" Huo Mei Shu''s hair stood on end immediately! She didn''t expect this olddy to be so shameless!


    Rong Dai nodded. She could only say that this olddy was very unlucky to use this trick in front of her.


    With one hand, she went to take the olddy''s pulse. In her previous life, she had learned some medical skills from the imperial physician. Although she couldn''t open a consultation room, she could still diagnose these minor illnesses.


    In her previous life, when she still didn''t know that the Noble Consort was the white rose in the emperor''s heart, she had foolishly fallen for this trick several times.


    But the emperor was never tired of this trick every time, and it always allowed the Noble Consort to seed.


    She was too familiar with the rhythm of this fake fainting.


    "It''s alright. Since the olddy is willing to sleep here, let''s let her sleep."


    Rong Dai let go of her hand, her eyes cold as a knife sweeping over the olddy''s body. Wen Old Madam felt a chill in her heart.


    "Mrs. Wang, go get a nket to cover the olddy. The elderly are afraid of the cold. Remember to bring a thick one."


    She also instructed Mrs. Wang, taking care to stress the words "thick one".


    Huo Mei Shu stared at Wen Old Madam beside her. Seeing her eyelids flutter, she was immediately relieved.


    "Mrs. Wang, thewyer doesn''t look well. Go make him some wolfberry tea. I''ll go get the nket."


    With that said, she strode upstairs, taking two steps at a time.


    Rong Dai sat back down on the sofa, a smile on her charming face as she looked at thewyer.


    "Mr. Lawyer, since the olddy is tired, let''s let her sleep for a while. Why don''t we talk about this case? I wonder what Wen Old Madam wants me to do?"


    Thewyer felt very ufortable under her gaze. He nced at Wen Old Madam "sleeping" very soundly on the sofa and was unable to get any information. He had no choice but to bite the bullet and say, "We hope that the Huo family can withdraw the charges against Miss Wen."


    Rong Dai lowered her eyes slightly, a deep gloom shing in her eyes.


    Withdraw? Don''t even think about it.


    "Even if I agree to withdraw thewsuit, the investigative agency will not revoke the charges against Miss Wen for suspected murder. Miss Wen will still face trial. So what''s the point ofing to me?"


    Thewyer frowned slightly, hesitated for a moment, and said, "It would be fine if Mrs. Huo is willing to withdraw thewsuit. You don''t need to worry about the rest."


    "So you mean that the Wen family can find a way to bring Miss Wen Shn back unharmed, right?"


    Rong Dai seized on his words and asked.


    "Yes...no, of course not." Thewyer nodded almost reflexively, but when he realized what he had said, he hurriedly shook his head to exin.


    He had almost blurted out the truth from her leading questions.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly on her face, and did not continue to question him, while thewyer became restless. He had staked his life to handle this matter for the Wen family.


    "Here''s the quilt!" At this moment, Huo Mei Shu came downstairs carrying a down quilt from upstairs. The slyness fluctuating in her eyes made Rong Dai very helpless.


    This little girl really couldn''t be offended.


    Huo Mei Shu nimbly covered Wen Old Madam with the quilt, leaving no part of her body uncovered except her face.


    This dead girl!


    Wen Old Madam couldn''t help but curse in her heart, but she had already done this. If she woke up now, wouldn''t that prove Rong Dai right? How could she arrange things afterwards?


    "Granny Wen, sleep well. If you feel cold, my family has plenty of quilts."


    Huo Mei Shu said with a smile, then pped her hands and sat back down on the sofa.


    Mrs. Wang brought the wolfberry tea to thewyer. Seeing the olddy covered so tightly, she nced up at the central air conditioner disy in the hall, which showed a constant temperature of 26 degrees Celsius. She hoped the olddy could endure it.


    "Mr. Lawyer, your suit is very special and the decorations are quite innovative."


    After a few seconds of silence in the living room, Rong Dai''s gaze remained fixed on thewyer as she suddenly came up with this remark.


    Thewyer''s eyes shed with panic. He almost choked on the hot tea in his mouth. He quickly put it down and forced a smile to say, "No, no, I just bought it randomly."


    Huo Mei Shu sat on the side, puzzled. Her eyes couldn''t help but look over thewyer''s suit either. But she didn''t feel there was anything innovative about it. It wasst year''s style!


    But Rong Dai didn''t say anything more, so she decided not to ask for now.


    Half an hour passed quickly. Rong Dai looked at the olddy who was still motionless on the sofa and was quite impressed.


    She now understood how Wen Shn could have done those crazy things, with a grandmother like this to guide her. How could she not turn out like this?


    "Mom, you''re back so early today?"


    After a while, Lu Zheng pushed open the door and came in from outside. Huo Mei Shu immediately asked.


    Lu Zheng didn''t answer her right away. Instead, she looked around and saw Wen Old Madam sleeping on the sofa. Her expression instantly changed.


    "Mom, Granny Wen is visiting us. She probably fell asleep because she was tired from the car ride."


    Rong Dai also stood up, not waiting for her mother-inw to ask before exining herself.


    Lu Zheng looked at her and Huo Mei Shu suspiciously, then nced at thewyer again.


    Visiting?


    Who would bring awyer to someone''s home as a guest?


    It must be about Wen Shn''s case again. On the way here, she had called Lu Hong to ask about the progress of this case.


    The trial would begin next Monday. ording to Left Ran and Wen Shn''s actions, one was the principal offender, the other an aplice.


    Left Ran was also suspected of murdering An Fei Ya. Coupled with thistest murder, and the testimonies of many others she had harmed, she probably couldn''t escape the death penalty.


    As for Wen Shn''s suspected involvement in murder, although she was an aplice, her sentencing would not be light either. At least a few years in prison was likely.


    This incident had dealt a heavy blow to the Wen family. Their business empire was already precarious. She thought the Wen family should be more restrained.


    She didn''t expect this olddy to take awyer to their home while they were all out.


    This olddy was not easy to deal with. She had almost be the Wen family''s daughter-inw back then. After learning of this olddy''s personality, she decisively chose the Huo family, which was not as well off as the Wen family at that time.


    The facts proved that her choice was right. She had worried all the way here, but it seemed she had worried for nothing.

 Chapter 98: Trending Again

    <h4>Chapter 98</h4>


    "Let the olddy sleep, you two can do whatever you want. Rong Dai, your foot hasn''t fully recovered, you should go upstairs and rest properly, or you''ll regret it if you beme," said Lu Zheng.


    Although the Huo family had gone through ups and downs before, Lu Zheng had never suffered in the Huo family.


    She knew very well why the olddy from the Wen family hade today.


    But Shao Ting and his mother had told her before that they had already been very merciful to the Wen family.


    The Wen family did help out the Huo family at the beginning, but they had also taken a huge sum from the Huo family without holding back, possibly even more.


    There are no permanent friends in the business world, only permanent interests.


    At that time, although the Wen family was powerful in Shenjing, they also had opponents. To put it nicely, the Wen family was helping the Huo family; to put it bluntly, they were actually just helping themselves.


    After so many years, it was about time the Wen family stopped sucking blood.


    She was the daughter-inw of the Huo family. They could talk privately about family matters, no outsider needed to interfere.


    "Thank you for your concern, mother," said Rong Dai obediently with a nod, signaling Huo Mei Shu to go upstairs with her. The olddy probably needed to lie down for a while longer.


    The sisters-inw went upstairs towards Huo Mei Shu''s room. After entering her room, Rong Dai sat on the sofa while Huo Mei Shu brought over a footstool and sat in a swing chair, ready to gossip.


    Rong Dai listened with a smile. If it were anyone else, they would have found Huo Mei Shu annoyingly chatty.


    But Rong Dai didn''t feel that way. Perhaps it was because of the loneliness in her past life.


    She liked being surrounded by liveliness and noise. Even meaningless chatter made her happy to listen to.


    "Sister-inw, you really don''t know how outrageous that olddy is. Any younger generation she catches can hardly escape her evil clutches," said Huo Mei Shu animatedly.


    "I always followed grandma''s words carefully and behaved obediently in front of her. She must have been furious today!"


    Rong Dai smiled faintly. "Actually, what the grandma said makes sense. You either ignore such people, or cater to them in ways they like. Otherwise you''re just asking for trouble."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded emphatically in agreement, then grimaced in disgust and contempt. "I didn''t expect they could still be so shameless to beg you again. She had already begged my momst time."


    Rong Dai knew about this. Huo Shao Ting had turned on the speakerphone right in front of her at the hospital back then.


    She frowned slightly. "Don''t you think it''s strange how she happened to know I was home today?"


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression changed. She immediately called Uncle Li to retrieve the surveince footage around the Huo residence.


    If they weren''t stalking closely, how could they know the whereabouts of sister-inw so clearly?


    "Sister-inw, the incident today... made it to the hot search again," she said after hanging up with Uncle Li.


    When she checked her phone, the incident of them eating in the mall at noon and elder brother beating someone was already trending.


    Rong Dai''s face turned slightly pale. Shemented the advanced information spread in this world, but at the same time, she was also very afraid.


    The feeling that any action could be singled out and criticized was very unpleasant, like being stripped naked and examined in public.


    "Is it serious?" she asked anxiously. She really wanted to see but her phone had just been taken by Auntie Wang for other uses.


    "Don''t worry sister-inw, let me check first!" Huo Mei Shu was also nervous.


    She had already been forced to trend twice. Sister-inw wasn''t a celebrity. If this continued, she wouldn''t even be able to go out.


    "It''s okay, don''t be nervous," said Rong Dai to reassure her upon seeing Huo Mei Shu''s anxious expression.


    After all, it had already happened. They should think about how to resolve it rather than anxiously me themselves, as that would only affect clear thinking.


    Huo Mei Shu quickly browsed Weibo. Seeing that the vast majority ofments were siding with them, she immediately rxed.


    It couldn''t be helped. Chinese people were just that powerful.


    No matter how much internal strife, they would unite against foreign enemies.


    In recent years, China''s rapid development had attracted many excellent foreign entrepreneurs, but it had also brought over some foreign trash that harmed Chinese women.


    Such incidents were alreadymon. It was about time elder brother beat up those worthless foreign scumbags.


    Many people were probably fed up already butcked elder brother''s influence. They might as well rally behind him!


    She immediately posted the video and text she had copied today as precaution.


    Then she grinned at Rong Dai triumphantly, "Done!"


    "It''s okay now?" Rong Dai was puzzled.


    "See for yourself!"


    Huo Mei Shu handed her the phone, in great spirits.


    Rong Dai browsed through it. Although there were still some maliciousments, the vast majority were cheering Huo Shao Ting on, putting her mind at ease.


    The sisters-inw were chatting when Auntie Wang knocked and entered at Huo Mei Shu''s call.


    "Auntie Wang, did that olddy leave?" Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up immediately.


    She really wanted to see the olddy''s disheveled state after being stuffed under theforter. Shameless even in old age!


    Auntie Wang looked at her reproachfully but also helplessly. "How could she not leave? Who could withstand the downforter you stuffed her with? The olddy was so stuffed that beads of sweat on her forehead were the size of soybeans. If stuffed any longer, she really might have fainted."


    "Hahaha... She deserved it!"


    Huo Mei Shuughed gleefully right away.


    Rong Dai was exasperated. She looked towards Auntie Wang, who quickly handed over her phone.


    "Madam, your phone."


    "Thank you for your trouble."


    "I''ll go back down since I couldn''t reach the young master when I called earlier. He was probably in a meeting."


    Auntie Wang smiled benevolently with a nod, not forgetting to mention the call.


    "It''s fine, everything''s been resolved. If that olddy didn''t leave, my elder brother would have really needed to get her some heart revival pills when he got back," said Huo Mei Shu, waving her hand as sheughed heartily. Just picturing the old Wendy crawling out from under theforter was too funny.


    Auntie Wang nodded and left the room.


    "Sister-inw, aren''t you the least bit curious how disheveled that olddy was?" Huo Mei Shu had tears ofughter. Seeing that Rong Dai was still calm, she couldn''t help asking.


    A mysterious smile appeared on Rong Dai''s face as she browsed her phone. "What''s there to be curious about? Won''t I see clearly when I look?"

 Chapter 99: Inexplicable Guilt

    <h4>Chapter 99</h4>


    Rong Dai immediately stared with wide eyes and asked her: "Sister-inw, did you record a video?"


    Dai nodded. If she had had these good things in her previous life, she wouldn''t have suffered so much loss at the hands of the Imperial Noble Consort.


    When Mrs. Wang told her that Old Mrs. Wen wasing over, she had already kept it in mind.


    There was no other way. She didn''t want to harm others, but she also didn''t want to be harmed.


    Wen Shi Lan and Zuo Ran''s cases still had no result. She was also unfamiliar with Old Mrs. Wen of the Wen family. Why would shee to see her at this time?


    So she gave her phone to Mrs. Wang and asked Mrs. Wang to pay attention to the angle and record what was happening in the living room.


    If the olddy of the Wen family really just came to visit, she could delete it afterwards.


    If she came to find fault, then this recording would be evidence.


    She knew the harm of gossip, especially when the younger generation faced the usations of an elder, people tend to be prejudiced and help use the real victim.


    She had suffered losses from Wen Shi Lan several times. If she was still so unguarded, then it would really be her own fault.


    "Why didn''t I think of it earlier? I knew that olddy was up to no good. Sister-inw, you really kept your cool."


    Huo Mei Shu hadn''t thought that deeply. She stood behind Dai as the sisters-inw watched the video together.


    The video was recorded very clearly. They could see and hear everything that was said clearly, as well as the olddy''s expressions.


    Just in case, Huo Mei Shu took the initiative to make two backup copies.


    "Actually, they were recording too. Do you still remember why I asked thewyer about his suit?" The decorations on the chest pocket of his suit looked a bit strange."


    After turning off her phone, Dai asked Huo Mei Shu. She didn''t want the young sister-inw to think of her as a scheming viiness.


    Alright, although she was crafty, she was doing this to protect herself.


    Although it wasn''t like the pce struggles in her previous life where the consorts fought viciously, danger still lurked around at all times here.


    The slightest carelessness could make her the target of public criticism, with no defense at all.


    She liked liveliness, but she didn''t like peopleing to teach and nder her. That would greatly affect her mood.


    Only with a cheerful mood could she be healthy in body and mind, and live a long life.


    In her previous life, she only lived a few decades with her short life. She didn''t want to die so early again in this life.


    "Sister-inw, are you saying that they didn''te today to ask for your forgiveness, but to set you up?"


    Huo Mei Shu suddenly stared with wide eyes, feeling extremely shocked and incredulous!


    She couldn''t have imagined that an olddy whose own granddaughter was trying to kill someone, could still plot against others so viciously!


    If the sister-inw hadn''t been so cautious today, then what happened in the living room just now would definitely have been edited after they went back, and then posted online.


    At that time, the sister-inw would have no defense at all!


    How sinister! It was too sinister!


    "We have to take preemptive action and post the video online first. We must not give that old hag a chance to nder you!"


    Huo Mei Shu was so angry she wanted to strangle someone. She had never seen such a vicious person!


    But Dai just smiled at her and advised her to calm down.


    "Don''t be impatient. Taking preemptive action is good, but it depends on the situation."


    Huo Mei Shu was puzzled and tilted her head to listen to her exnation.


    "Do you know what ''to praise in order to kill'' means? In ancient times, the more an emperor feared a minister, the more rewards he would give him, waiting for him to becent and unaware, and then strike him down at once so that he could never rise again. This is called ''praise to kill''."


    Dai exined to her. Wasn''t this the trick the emperor used in her previous life to destroy the Rong familypletely?


    "If we post the video now, it will make us look bad. Knowing that the other party came to find fault, we still spoke so impolitely. Even if Old Mrs. Wen of the Wen family was wrong, people will definitely not side with us."


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up as she listened. She even looked at Dai admiringly.


    Dai felt awkward inwardly. The little sister-inw must not learn from her, otherwise she would really be tainted from the ink.


    She had been an imperial consort for thirty years. Adding the time as a concubine, it was almost thirty-five years.


    She married the Emperor when she was sixteen. Of her fifty-one years of life, only twenty-one years before entering the pce were truly carefree.


    In the following twenty years, she learned to stay calm in times of trouble, and also to retaliate by underhanded means.


    Those days eroded away bit by bit the innocence of her youth, until thest ten years living in cold pce, where she finally found brief tranquility.


    It was the years of her previous life that taught her these things. Although women in this era didn''t have to live so hard, danger still lurked around.


    Where there are people, there are rivers andkes.


    One should not have the heart to harm others, but must notck the heart to guard against others - this timeless wisdom she dared not forget a single word.


    "Rather than doing this, we might as well wait until they arecent and think they have the upper hand, then release the video to pull the rug out from under them. Even if they plot against us afterwards,izens will not side with them."


    Dai said softly.


    If Wen Shi Lan hadn''t acted so extremely, trying to take her life, she wouldn''t have used such means either.


    She just wanted to live a clean and carefree life.


    Basking in the sun at leisure, reading books, practicing calligraphy, tending to her nts, or cooking delicious food to satisfy her appetite.


    Such a life would be wonderful.


    But she still lived among the aristocratic families in this life. These things were unavoidable to guard against.


    "Sister-inw, I give you a thumbs up for this!"


    Huo Mei Shu approved greatly of her idea.


    But Dai felt bitter inside. She actually disliked having to be on high alert all the time.


    However, the world was like this. If she wanted to live freely as she wished, she would need some means to protect herself.


    "Actually, if they didn''t try to harm me, I wouldn''t do this either. I just don''t want any more trouble." She said helplessly.


    Seeing her like this, Huo Mei Shu couldn''t experience that feeling of being controlled, but she could understand.


    She straightened her expression and gave her a sincere hug.


    "No matter what, sister-inw, I believe in you. We are family. When there is difficulty, we will stand up and protect you."


    Because she had seen the most ruthless rtives, she would protect without reservation those she considered as family.


    Dai was startled, feeling warm inside, but also strangely guilty.


    If the little sister-inw knew that her marriage to Huo Shaoting would onlyst a year, would she still say this?


    After all, she was not the original owner. Huo Shaoting only doted on and cared for her so much because of the body she possessed.


    In Huo Shaoting''s world, she was still that Rong Dai, still the wife he first married, not the soul from another world that she was.

 Chapter 100: Husband and Wife Join Hands

    <h4>Chapter 100</h4>


    "Thank you, Mei Shu," although feelingplicated, she still reached out and hugged Huo Mei Shu back lightly, answering her softly.


    She was grateful for the Huo family''s kindness.


    If they had not been magnanimous enough, then when she was still in the hospital, it was possible that she and Huo Shao Ting would have divorced. She really could not imagine what kind of life she would be living now.


    She believed that if Huo Shao Ting had really insisted on a divorce at that time, with her just having arrived with no power, she would have had no way to resist.


    But Huo Shao Ting did not, he chose to be tolerant.


    And she caused so much trouble for the Huo family again and again. Although mother-inw did not like her, she still defended her in front of outsiders and gave her enough face.


    She saw all this very clearly.


    And that was why she felt guilty.


    To use Madam Wen''s words, she was indeed a woman without a background, and had such a disgraceful past.


    If it was any other wealthy and noble family, they would have discarded her long ago. How could they still possibly defend her? And do so much for her?


    "How much longer are you going to keep hugging my wife before letting go?"


    The two sisters-inw were having an intimate moment when Huo Shao Ting suddenly came in like a ghost, looking down condescendingly, his face cold as he gazed at Huo Mei Shu and spoke very indifferently.


    Huo Mei Shu stuck out her tongue and quickly let go of Rong Dai.


    When Rong Dai heard his voice, she also quickly collected herself and looked back at him, "You''re back. Work must have been tiring today. What do you want to eat tonight? I can make it for you."


    "Sister-inw, you''re biased! I want to eat too!"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately disagreed. The taste of that potsticker was unforgettable.


    She also really wanted to see what other unexpected sides her sister-inw had. She really could not imagine what kind of creature a person who could embroider, act, and cook so deliciously could be!


    "Dinner will be taken care of by Auntie Wang. Your sister-inw''s foot is not well yet. You went shopping today already, I''m not settling ounts with you yet, and you still want to order my wife to cook?"


    Huo Shao Ting immediately raised his eyebrows threateningly and looked at her.


    Huo Mei Shu really wanted to roll her eyes. This bull protecting his calf was even more intense than him!


    Rong Dai was embarrassed and quickly exined, "It was me who asked Mei Shu to apany me to buy some things today. And my foot is almostpletely healed, walking normally is not a problem now. After some more rehab I''ll be good as new. "


    She didn''t want her sister-inw to take the me for no reason. Fortunately, her sister-inw had an easygoing personality and was not the nitpicking, petty type.


    Otherwise, just based on what Huo Shao Ting had said several times now would have been enough to make her sister-inw hate her to death.


    "You still need to pay more attention to rest. Your hands are for embroidery, cooking frequently will make your hands be rough."


    Huo Shao Ting forcibly reminded her. He actually just didn''t want Rong Dai to cook for his whole family. If she cooked, it should only be for him alone.


    "Big brother, I see it now. You just want sister-inw to only cook for you alone, why beat around the bush?"


    Huo Mei Shu was really convinced.


    But when she thought about it, she could understand too. This monk was unrestrained after thirty years of abstinence, this primal power was unstoppable.


    She was just an ordinary person, self-preservation came first.


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. Outsiders probably could hardly imagine that the daily interactions between the Huo siblings were like this, constantly attacking each other.


    "It''s fine, you can help me. Auntie also happened toe back early today. I haven''t cooked for the family before either."


    She quickly smoothed things over. It was just making a meal, she was not so sentimental.


    She also wanted to do something for the Huo family, to slightlypensate for the guilt in her heart.


    "Mei Shu, call Xiao Jie and ask him toe back for dinner too. Work is tiring for the crew, if he can eat at home then eat at home."


    She also took the opportunity to get her little uncle toe back. Otherwise, what would it be if this got out?


    She didn''t want her reasons to affect the rtionship between the siblings. And if little uncle came back, she could also learn a bit more about the progress of this drama.


    Huo Mei Shu thought about how pitiful her second brother looked today, and was a little sympathetic. So she nodded in agreement.


    Huo Shao Ting helplessly looked at her with a doting expression, and reached out to grasp her slender hand. The couple went downstairs together.


    Seeing the two being so lovey-dovey, Huo Mei Shu suddenly felt a little envious of her "expelled" second brother.


    At least he didn''t have to hurt his eyes and heart!


    Eating too much sour lemons makes you lose teeth, okay?


    "Auntie Wang, we''ll take over, you go rest."


    When she got to the kitchen and saw Auntie Wang preparing the dishes, Rong Dai gently said.


    Seeing the coupleing into the kitchen together, knowing that Young Master could cook, and seeing this young couple getting along so well now, Auntie Wang was happy in her heart. She immediately washed her hands and leftughing cheerfully.


    "Auntie Wang, what are youughing about?"


    Lu Zheng had just finished changing clothes upstairs and came down, still feeling a little ufortable inside after Madam Wen''s disturbance today.


    Auntie Wang quickly put away her smile. She had gotten to know everyone in the Huo family''s temperaments after working here so many years.


    She went up and whispered, "Madam, Young Missus and Young Master are making dinner in the kitchen. Madam, your wish wille true soon."


    Lu Zheng''s eyes immediately brightened. She knew about what happened with Rong Dai and the other three at the mall today, and with Old Madam Wening to stir up trouble again, the heart she had just put down a few days ago was gripped again.


    Now hearing that the couple was getting along well and even cooking together in the kitchen, she was relieved again.


    She was really afraid these things would affect her son. If he got tired of it and simply divorced Rong Dai, then trying to find a daughter-inw to be by his side afterward would be harder than ascending to heaven.


    Although Rong Dai''s previous matters made her speechless, as long as she could get along well with her son, she would not dwell on those things.


    "Madam can take a look and see for herself. Young Missus'' cooking skills are quite good. Last time she made hand-pulled noodles for Young Master, andst night she cooked potstickers and bird''s nest soup for Young Miss."


    Auntie Wang had a smile on her face again as she exined.


    Lu Zheng nodded and let Auntie Wang go rest while she herself quietly went to the kitchen door to take a look.


    She saw the young couple in the kitchen, Huo Shao Ting was responsible for washing vegetables, cutting them, and assisting, while Rong Dai was responsible for cooking. They coordinated very tacitly, just like an old married couple who had been together for over a decade.


    Rong Dai concentrated on cooking, Huo Shao Ting concentrated on watching her, stealing tastes from time to time, earning quite a few helpless sighs from Rong Dai.


    Watching them, Lu Zheng''s eyes involuntarily turned red, and inexplicably thought of herte husband.


    When she had just entered the Huo family, he had defended her everywhere like her eldest son now. The two of them had also cooked in the kitchen like this before.


    Now the children were all grown up. She often thought of those times from before, but some were blurred.


    Seeing this scene now, she couldn''t help but tear up.


    Seeing the two of them harmonious, Lu Zheng was also relieved. She quietly walked away.


    In the kitchen, although it was the couple''s first time cooperating to cook like this, they were very tacit, just like an old married couple who had been together for over a decade.


    Rong Dai concentrated on cooking, Huo Shao Ting concentrated on watching her, stealing tastes from time to time, earning quite a few helpless sighs from Rong Dai.

 Chapter 101: Too Much Exposure

    <h4>Chapter 101</h4>


    It is said that when a husband and wife work together, the tasks be effortless.


    After two hours of busy work in the kitchen, a table full of beautifully presented and fragrant dishes was served.


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but drool with anticipation. She quickly went forward to take pictures and called Rong Dai over, saying, "Sister-inw,e here!"


    "Smile, don''t waste this delicious meal."


    She urged Rong Dai, noticing her sister-inw''s slight hesitation. Thoughtfully, she leaned closer herself, making an incredibly adorable expression. Just as she was about to take the photo, Huo Shao Ting appeared behind them like a ghost.


    "Brother..."


    Huo Mei Shu felt annoyed, but Huo Shao Ting swiftly pulled Rong Dai to sit beside him, saying, "Your sister-inw is already tired from cooking."


    Huo Mei Shu surrendered immediately, now understanding that her brother''s attention revolves around his wife.


    "Mei Shu, is it because Brother won''t being home for dinner tonight? I''ve been eating at the hotel these past few days... my... teeth... hurt."


    Huo Shao Ting had just entered the kitchen to fetch a spoon when Huo Shao Jie poked his head in. He smelled the aroma of the food and hurriedly changed into slippers. The first half of his sentence seemed normal.


    Seeing Huo Shao Tinging out of the kitchen with a spoon, his voice became weak and intermittent, as if he were a malfunctioning audio cassette.


    "You''re happy that I won''t being home for dinner?" Huo Shao Ting sat down on a chair and calmly asked him in return.


    Huo Shao Jie felt a chill down his spine, and he nced at Huo Mei Shu with a resentful look. How could this girl not inform him that his brother was at home!


    He quickly looked at Huo Shao Ting and forced a smile, saying, "Brother, I''ve had a hard time these past few days. Please don''t be angry..."


    Rong Dai couldn''t help butugh and cry. Who would have thought that the esteemed Huo Director would be so timid at home?


    "Shao Jie, go wash your hands first. We can have dinner once Momes down. Your brother has already let go of his anger long ago. It''s morefortable for him to stay at home, and I can also discuss work matters with you."


    She quickly mediated, not forgetting to signal Huo Shao Ting with her eyes. He wouldn''t refuse since it was her request.


    "Alright." Huo Shao Ting muttered lightly, and Huo Shao Jie felt a great sense of relief, quickly heading to the restroom to wash his hands.


    After Lu Zheng came downstairs, the family sat together at the dining table and enjoyed their dinner happily.


    "Sister-inw, your culinary skills are even better than those of a five-star chef!" Huo Shao Jie had been starving these past few days in the hotel.


    When he was away filming, he had no choice, but as long as he was in Shengjing, he would definitelye home for meals.


    Wang Mom''s cooking skills were excellent, but he didn''t expect his own sister-inw to possess such talent in the kitchen. He needed to make up for the missed meals these past few days!


    "You''re lucky today. Big brother is helping in the kitchen," Huo Mei Shu chimed in agreement.


    Lu Zheng also praised, astonished by Rong Dai''s cooking skills. Nowadays, there aren''t many young people willing to stay in the kitchen.


    Isn''t one''s own daughter like this? Although the Huo family doesn''t need them to cook, she still hopes her daughter will have some basic culinary skills, but she refuses to learn.


    This woman can choose not to enter the kitchen, but she can''t be ignorant. She has mentioned it a few times that Huo Meishu has been perfunctory in dealing with her. Now she seizes the opportunity and immediately takes the chance to advise Huo Meishu, "Meishu, learn more from your sister-inw. Don''t get confused between salt, MSG, and starch."


    "Yes, yes, as long as my sister-inw is willing to teach, I promise to learn!" Huo Meishu continues to eat without even lifting her head, nodding repeatedly.


    Lu Zheng thinks she is just appeasing herself and sighs, deciding to give up.


    After all, a child is not controlled by the mother.


    After a satisfying meal, the whole family is content.


    Rong Dai sees them enjoying the meal and feels pleased. She also makes up her mind to cook more in the future.


    Cooking a few times won''t harm her. She has her own ways to take care of her hands. Otherwise, how could she have been able to hold an embroidery needle in her previous life in the cold pce?


    "Oh, I can''t. I''m too full. I need to take a walk," she says.


    Huo Meishu rubs her belly, looking a bit worried. Eating so much without restraint will turn into a funeral pyre when it''s time to lose weight.


    "I think it''s nice to sit in the yard under the shade of the vine trellis. It''s not as hot in the evening as it is during the day. Drinking tea in the yard won''t make you gain weight," Rong Dai interjects, feeling nervous about being alone with Huo Shaoting, especially after the awkwardness ofst night.


    "Really? Then, sister-inw, please teach me quickly," Huo Meishu''s eyes light up, and she pushes Rong Dai into the kitchen.


    Rong Dai can''t help butugh and cry, but she thinks it''s quite normal. Not many people can resist the temptation of good food.


    Especially for girls, everyone wants to eat without getting fat.


    There were many delicious things in the pce in her previous life, and they were abundant. Tributes came from all directions, and naturally, there were various delicacies.


    The pce chefs were very particr about cooking, using the freshest and best ingredients, resulting in extraordinary vors.


    But the pce concubines couldn''t engage in various weight-loss exercises like the women of this era. So, to prevent the concubines from gaining weight, the imperial physicians invented medicinal tea.


    It promoted health and reduced fat. As long as they walked a few extra steps, they could maintain a slim and slender figure no matter how much they ate.


    Rong Dai has seen the kitchen in the Huo family. It is veryrge, and besides various fresh and precious ingredients, there are also many precious teas and Chinese herbs.


    She used to drink it often in the pce, and that recipe was not a secret there. She naturally knew it and still remembers it.


    "Meishu, do we have tea utensils for brewing tea at home?" Rong Dai asks her younger sister-inw while searching for tea leaves and some Chinese herbs needed.


    Huo Meishu quickly goes upstairs to retrieve her own set of exquisite cdon tea utensils and cleans them. "Sister-inw, how about this?"


    Rong Dai takes a look and nods approvingly.


    Then wash the Chinese herbs, filter them with warm water, brew the tea leaves, and finally filter out the mixture. Use a gauze bag to contain the tea leaves and Chinese herbs together, and after some consideration, add a bit of licorice.


    In her past life, she was ustomed to drinking herbal tea without the addition of licorice. She was worried that the people of the Huo family wouldn''t be ustomed to it, so she added some.


    "Sister-inw, is this tea? Why are you brewing it together with Chinese herbs?" Huo Mei Shu expressed some concern.


    "This is medicinal tea. In fact, tea leaves can also be considered as Chinese herbs, but they are rarely used for treating illnesses. As long as thebination is right, there won''t be any harmful conflicts. You can rest assured," Rong Dai smiled.


    Rong Dai smiled and focused on brewing some tea to refresh the Huo family members, but she forgot that she had already revealed too much in front of Huo Shao Ting.


    In modern times, very few young people dare to do something like brewing medicinal tea unless theye from long-standing prestigious families.


    Chinese herbal medicine is extensive and profound, and mixing certain things together can be dangerous. However, Rong Dai''s confident and calm smile showed no trace of worry.


    Moreover, when selecting the Chinese herbs, she was very precise. She wouldn''t even spare a nce for the unnecessary ones, as if it had be a habitual task.

 Chapter 102: The Worst Possible Outcome

    <h4>Chapter 102</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t pay much attention to these details. She was just curious if this herbal tea could really help with weight loss.


    Rong Dai brewed the herbal tea and the two sisters-inw carried it to the perg in the courtyard.


    Lu Zheng, Rong Dai''s younger brother-inw, and Huo Shao Ting were already there, and Wang Mama brought some fruits.


    As Lu Zheng looked at his children sitting together in an orderly manner, he was reminded of the times when her husband was still alive, and the whole family would sit here, drink tea, and enjoy the moon.


    Seeing her mother-inw looking preupied, Rong Dai quickly poured a cup for her and said, "Mom, please try it."


    Lu Zheng nodded, took a sip, and then nodded again, saying, "Not bad, I''ve never seen this way of drinking tea before."


    Rong Dai should have been happy to hear her mother-inw''s words.


    But her heart inexplicably skipped a beat. Could it be that there was something wrong with the herbal tea?


    Her cheeks tingled with nervousness, and she quickly tried to remedy the situation, saying, "This is a prescription my mother got from an old Chinese doctor. We used to drink it often back home, but I''m not sure if it suits your taste."


    Lu Zheng didn''t suspect anything. As long as her daughter-inw could change for the better and get along well with her son, she didn''t ask for anything else.


    "Oh, I see. I thought you were also knowledgeable in Chinese medicine, sister-inw. If it weren''t for your performance this afternoon, I would have really thought that olddy was truly unwell," Lu Zheng said.


    Huo Mei Shu, who hadn''t drunk yet, nodded in agreement upon hearing Rong Dai''s exnation.


    Rong Dai''s smile on her face was somewhat stiff, and her heart was filled with tension. Her gaze nced over Huo Shao Ting, as if seeking his understanding.


    She just hoped that her sister-inw wouldn''t say anything more!


    Otherwise, with Huo Shao Ting''s keen perception, he would surely notice something amiss.


    "I just used a trick. The olddy''splexion was rosy and she spoke with vigor. She didn''t look like a sick person at all. And when she fell, she even nced at thatwyer on purpose. I think she wanted to scare us," Rong Dai said, holding her breath. She felt exhausted from weaving one lie after another.


    "Next time, you don''t have to worry about such things. I''ll strengthen the security in our home. Mom, please inform the property management tomorrow that no one from the Wen family is allowed to enter with their vehicles anymore. The rtionship between the Huo and Wen families ends here," Huo Shao Ting said.


    Huo Shao Ting actually saw through Rong Dai''s nervousness and panic, but he didn''t say anything. Instead, he sipped the herbal tea, which tasted somewhat like a cooling herbal drink.


    "I understand," Rong Dai nodded. She hadn''t expected the olddy from the Wen family to make such a move today.


    While drinking her tea, Huo Mei Shu quickly pulled out her phone to check when she heard them talking about the olddy. She wanted to see what else that olddy could do!


    At that moment, Huo Shao Ting''s private number rang. It was a call from his assistant, Zhang, so he answered it.


    "CEO, you must check the news! Madam... she''s trending again!"


    Zhang Assistant was feeling a headache. He had been dealing with matters all day, and finally managed to shift the me for the incident where the CEO hit someone at lunchtime to their side.


    Before he could even catch his breath, another problem arose in the evening!


    His head was spinning. What kind of bad luck did his wife have? She could be a hot topic just by having a meal or going shopping.


    Now even when an olddy pays a visit, it bes a hot topic. His career as an assistant is truly challenging!


    Huo Shaoting''s expression changed slightly. His imposing presence was so strong that even the slightest change was noticeable to those around him.


    "Big brother, is there something going on in thepany?"


    Huo Shaojie saw his brother''s reaction and thought something had happened in thepany. He couldn''t wait for his big brother to leave, as he felt uneasy all over.


    Huo Shaoting nced at him indifferently and said, "Can''t even drink tea without choking you?"


    Huo Shaojie: "..."


    Did he offend someone?


    "It''s not apany matter, it''s that old woman from the Wen family! She''s absolutely despicable!"


    Before Huo Shaoting could exin, Huo Meishu stared at the screen of her phone, her eyes almost shooting mes!


    "Huo Meishu, do you have any manners?" Lu Zheng immediately rebuked her.


    Huo Meishu shrugged, "Isn''t it obvious? If you don''t believe me, take a look at your phone. How maliciously did they edit the video on Weibo? It''s downright vicious!"


    Lu Zheng frowned. She knew very well that the olddy from the Wen family must have had ill intentions when she came today. However, she had just returned in the afternoon, and the olddy left in a huff. She certainly wouldn''t have stopped her.


    Upon hearing her words, both Lu Zheng and Huo Shaojie quickly took out their phones to see. When they saw the trending topics, Lu Zheng''s face turned pale.


    Huo Shaojie''s expression also changed. Who could have imagined that an olddy would be so malicious? She deliberately framed a younger generation!


    And it involved Wen Shn in a murder allegation! That''s life-threatening!


    "Big brother, I have no objections to how you handle the Wen family this time. Back then, the Huo family did owe them a debt of gratitude, but over the years, hasn''t the Wen family received enough from the Huo family?"


    Huo Shaojie''s face darkened. He turned to look at Huo Shaoting, his eyes sharp and resolute.


    "Yeah." Huo Shaoting responded indifferently, while sending a few messages to Zhang Assistant.


    Rong Dai looked at the trending topics on her phone and couldn''t help but sigh.


    She had prepared for the worst, but she still didn''t want the worst oue to happen.


    "Just ignore these things. I will handle this matter," Huo Shaoting said, reaching out to hold her delicate hand, his voice gentle andforting.


    Rong Dai smiled bitterly, shook her head, and then took out a video from her hand and ced it on the table. "When the olddy came this afternoon, I was cautious because neither Mom nor you were at home. Since she is an elder, if both Meishu and I couldn''t handle this matter well, it would only give the olddy a chance to make trouble. So, I had Wang Mama find an opportunity to secretly record the video."


    Lu Zheng immediately went over to watch after hearing this, and Huo Shaoting and Huo Shaojie naturally followed suit.


    "Sister-inw, should we post the video now?" Huo Meishu felt an itch deep down, realizing that this person could be vicious, and age was definitely not an issue.


    "Since we have video evidence, it''s best to let Big Brother handle this matter. Thepany''s public rtions team has more experience dealing with these things."


    Huo Shaojie was the first to shake his head, feeling a sense of relief in his heart.


    It all started because he didn''t handle his sister-inw''s first audition properly, which resulted in the video being leaked, and she ended up making headlines every few days.


    It''s quite amusing when you think about it. His sister-inw is not even part of the entertainment circle, yet she repeatedly dominates the trending topics. Can this really leave any room for the people in the industry?


    Rong Dai also nodded, her gaze eager, yet tinged with a hint of nervousness and self-me as she looked at him.


    She had no idea how Huo Shaoting would view her. In that situation at the time, she had no choice but to do what she did.


    If she hadn''t asked Aunt Wang to record the video back then, the current online buzz would be enough to ruin her career.

 Chapter 103: Her Anxiety

    <h4>Chapter 103</h4>


    "Show me the video," he said. Rong Dai picked up her phone and handed it to him, her heart filled with anxiety and worry.


    Huo Shao Ting had been gentle and considerate to her, and she felt very warm.


    But at the same time, the secret in her heart was too shocking for her to reveal lightly.


    She and the original owner were two different people. If the Huo family was observant enough, they would be able to notice many of her differences.


    Although she had been very restrained, she was not the original owner after all, and the two had very different personalities.


    Even if Zuoran''s affair was an exnation, others might believe it, but with how intimate she had been with Huo Shao Ting recently, someone as attentive as him would definitely notice something off.


    She didn''t dare look Huo Shao Ting in the eye. The anxiety and panic in her heart made her extremely uneasy.


    She didn''t know how to exin it to Huo Shao Ting.


    If she told him she wasn''t the original Rong Dai but a soul from ancient times, would he believe her?


    Or even if he did believe her, would he still maintain this kind of rtionship with her?


    In that moment, all kinds of stray thoughts popped up in her mind, and those ideas she had previously suppressed could no longer be contained.


    This kind of panic and anxiety was the emotion she detested the most.


    But now she waspletely helpless.


    "Sister-inw, don''t worry. Big brother will take care of this. It will be resolved quickly," Huo Mei Shu said. Seeing Rong Dai''s poorplexion, she thought Rong Dai was worried about the incident. She walked over and gently patted Rong Dai on the back to reassure her in a gentle tone.


    Rong Dai nodded, barely squeezing out a smile.


    Watching Huo Shao Ting make a phone call on thewn, his silhouette so long under themplight, she had a fleeting moment of disorientation. It felt as if there was a time gap between them.


    "Mom, Mei Shu, Shao Jie, I still have some unfinished business to take care of. I''ll head upstairs first," she said uneasily, not knowing how to deal with the situation. She almost rushed out of the yard.


    Although Huo Shao Ting still treated her the same attentive way, he didn''t know about all the hardships she had endured in the imperial harem in her previous life, which had forced her to learn to be prudent and discreet.


    These things had be ingrained in her soul, almost instinctual, so even if she wanted to change, it would be nearly impossible.


    So she could sense Huo Shao Ting''s slightest changes, which made her feel uneasy.


    Compared to her eventual divorce from Huo Shao Ting, she was more anxious about how to exin this to him.


    After Rong Dai left, Huo Mei Shu sat next to Lu Zheng and said, "Mom, let me tell you, these next few days you should just go on a trip. I''ll book a tour for you. Otherwise, that olddy will definitelye bother you again."


    Huo Shao Jie also nodded in agreement. This matter was not a business dispute. Everything could be discussed.


    The Wen family was after her sister-inw''s life. That went beyond moral boundaries and vited thew.


    "I can see Big Brother really cherishes Sister-in-Law. If Sister-in-Law is unhappy, think about it, how long would it take for you to hold a grandchild?"


    "If you''re waiting for Second Brother, I''m telling you, you might as well wait for Big Brother. At least this monk has taken off his robes. But Second Brother is an iron tree that will take ten thousand years to blossom. When will that ever happen?"


    Huo Mei Shu enticed persuasively. She understood her mother''s personality. Although opinionated, she was soft-hearted before elders. And before marrying into the Huo family, she had some history with the Wen family.


    If the Wen matriarch could frame her sister-inw like this, who knew what other outrageous tricks she might use to beg her mother. If she fell into that trap, it would destroy the familial bonds that had just been mended.


    "You mention Big Brother, then drag me into it. Why don''t you find someone yourself? Still hoping Big Brother will support you for life? Aren''t you afraid Sister-in-Law will be jealous?" Huo Shao Jie retorted when his weakness was exposed. The siblings immediately began bickering.


    "Enough, you two are giving me a headache. I''ll listen to you, Mei Shu, on this matter. Book me ne tickets tonight. I''ll give my old friend a call. She''s free too." Although Lu Zheng was worried, she also knew her personality.


    If unsessful this time, the Wen matriarch would definitelye looking for her.


    "Ok!" Huo Mei Shu nced at Huo Shao Jie triumphantly as she happily looked up flight tickets on her phone.


    After Huo Shao Ting sent the video to Assistant Zhang, he gave instructions on how to handle it.


    Since the Wen family wanted to y this game, he would indulge them in an extended round.


    He had been too lenient with the Wen family over the years, so they thought he was tolerant enough to allow them to repeatedly frame his wife.


    After hanging up, Assistant Zhang mourned for the Wen family in silence. This time they were asking for their own demise.


    The matter could have been resolved in court. Wen Shi Lan would serve a few years in prison, but if the Wen empire copsed, what use would saving Wen Shi Lan be?


    And they might not even be able to protect her. This video would probably ruin Wen Shi Lan even more.


    He sighed and hurriedly instructed the tech team to process two versions of the video.


    One was what Rong Dai had recorded, unaltered. The other was what the Wen family had released, clearly technically manipted to portray the young miss and the mistress as incredibly vicious while the Wen matriarch was most innocent.


    Recently, "Rong Dai" had appeared in top search results several times, only dropping off the charts around noon today after much effort.


    Now with this video out, it was clearly meant to drag the mistress through the mud.


    The inte was in an uproar, with nearly everyizen one-sidedly cursing Rong Dai.


    That was the wondrous nature of keyboard warriors online, quick to judge before the truth came out, eager to demonstrate their sense of justice.


    After giving instructions, Huo Shao Ting was about to turn off Rong Dai''s phone screen when he noticed it had no password set.


    Recalling the ink jade stone and the expert''s words, as well as her peculiarities, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help but start browsing through her phone.


    He opened the browser history and indeed saw many bizarre questions, mostly basic life knowledge.


    What modern person capable of living independently would ask such things?


    How to deal with your period?


    How to use pads?


    And many other such basic questions.


    If this were a man''s phone, or he had searched these himself, he wouldn''t find it odd.


    Few men truly cared about women''s feminine health. A spontaneous search wasn''t improbable.


    But this was a new phone Huo Mei Shu had bought for her. How could she not know the answers to these questions?


    She was already at this age, not going through puberty. These questions were clearly abnormal.

 Chapter 104: He Doubted

    <h4>Chapter 104</h4>


    ��Big brother, you need tofort your wife properly. She must be feeling awful after everything that happened today,�� said Huo Mei Shu with a wink after he walked over.


    This sister-inw was bing more and more likeable to him.


    ��Mm,�� Huo Shao Ting gave a nomittal hum and drained his medicinal tea before heading into the house.


    Rong Dai returned to the bedroom feeling terrible inside, so she decided to just take a shower.


    Hearing the door open, she tensed under the showerhead almost instinctively.


    She had never imagined she would care so much about what a man thought of her. She had wanted to enjoy their brief time together properly.


    But now she realized things were not so simple. Huo Shao Ting was too perceptive.


    She sighed softly, turned off the showerhead, dried her body with a towel, inserted a sanitary pad for her period, put on house clothes, yet still didn��t want to leave the bathroom. She just stood in front of the sink, staring absently at the mirror.


    This face truly resembled her face in her past life, almost identical to the same face.


    She raised her hand to touch it. From the corner of her eye, she noticed the cab on the side of the sink. She had never opened that drawer.


    The original owner had not told her about these things in detail in her dreams either.


    Out of curiosity, she reached out to open the drawer.


    The first drawer contained unused, sealed toiletries. When she opened the second drawer, she was stunned.


    Seeing the several packs of sanitary pads inside, one of which was unopened, as well as period panties, Rong Dai''s pupils constricted sharply. Her breath seemed to catch in her nose.


    Her heartbeat first skipped a beat, then began pounding like a drum!


    It was as if ice water had been injected into her body. The chill prated her bones, and her freshly showered body instantly broke out in a cold sweat.


    Her fingers trembled slightly as she slowly closed the drawer. Gripping the sink with both hands, her face was deathly pale from the momentary oxygen deprivation and panic.


    She stared at herself in the mirror, unable to help pressing a hand over her racing heart. Its frenzied pounding was almost too much to bear.


    She had no idea about these pads and panties!


    Did Huo Shao Ting already know?


    Rong Dai didn''t dare contemte it. She was terrified!


    ��Wife? What''s wrong? You''ve been showering for a long time. Do you need my help with anything?��


    Huo Shao Ting had already been inside for a while. Based on when she had returned, it had been almost forty minutes.


    If this continued, her skin would be rubbed raw.


    Hearing the knock and his mellow voice, Rong Dai shuddered reflexively.


    ��Oh...almost done.�� She realized her tongue felt numb from anxiety, affecting her speech.


    She took onest deep look at the drawer, feeling something in her heart slowly sinking down.


    She walked to the bathroom door, took a deep breath before opening it.


    As soon as she opened the door, Huo Shao Ting''s tall figure enveloped her. Even at almost 5''9��, she looked petite before him.


    ��Don''t dwell on things. It will be resolved. I will take care of everything.��


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her. He had seen the panic and anxiety in her eyes the instant she opened the door, and vaguely guessed what had happened.


    But he was also not yet prepared with how to ask her about this matter, or figured out a way to resolve itfortably without making her averse and anxious.


    He had only been vaguely suspicious at first, until learning of the ink jade��s origins today. Now he was fairly certain of his guess.


    Although far-fetched, he trusted his instincts and judgement.


    Rong Dai gave a bitter smile before slipping past him.


    ��You��ve had a difficult day. I��m a bit tired.��


    She didn��t know how to handle this.


    Firstly, she had no way to exin clearly, and revealing this could threaten her life.


    Secondly, she wasn��t sure if Huo Shao Ting could ept this oue. He had married the original, but now discovered the woman he had been intimate with for so long was actually a soul from another world.


    Could he ept it? He would probably be freaked out.


    The uncertainty and worry made her extremely anxious. Without waiting for Huo Shao Ting��s reply, she burrowed into the quilt to sleep.


    Huo Shao Ting saw everything clearly. He could feel her tension and anxiety.


    His eyes grew profound. Saying nothing, he went to shower.


    After drying his hair in the bathroom, he saw the partially open drawer and immediately understood.


    As he put away the hairdryer, he closed the drawer containing evidence of her secret.


    Naturally Rong Dai could not fall asleep. She had never experienced such turmoil, even in her past life.


    Even when, one year, the Imperial Concubine had schemed against her, causing Rong Dai to identally fall into her trap and the Imperial Concubine to miscarry the unborn prince, Rong Dai had not felt so unsettled when punished by the Emperor.


    Perhaps the Emperor''s coldness had worn away her past gentleness over time. She might not have even noticed when she removed the Emperor from her heart.


    One feels no turmoil about what one does not care for. That she was so disturbed about Huo Shao Ting showed how important he had be.


    Feeling like her heart was stuffed in a chimney, scorched and suffocated, Rong Dai was very ufortable.


    Sensing the bedroom darkening as the bed dipped behind her, she couldn''t help slowing her breathing. Even the hairs on her neck prickled tensely.


    In the darkness, Huo Shao Ting could not see her expression but sensed her rigid body and felt her anxiety and tension.


    He moved closer, enveloping her in his strong arms and kissing her cheek instinctively.


    ��No matter what, I can wait. Wait for you to give me the truth, wait for you to give me an answer.��


    He suddenly spoke, perhaps affected after dispatching experts that day to investigate this matter.


    She was likely reacting to his change in mood.


    ��Rong Dai, you are my wife. Understand?��


    His voice was gentle.


    Rong Dai shuddered at his words, unable to control her pounding heart. For a moment she even breathed rapidly.


    He really was suspicious!


    She should have expected it!


    Someone as perceptive as him, able to seize control of the Huo family in such difficult circumstances and build it into the multinational conglomerate it was today with huge domestic influence, had immeasurable capabilities.


    Even though she had been extremely careful, he had still noticed something off.


    Rong Dai only felt shocked and powerless, as if all her strength had been drained. It was like falling into an icyke, clinging to a straw.


    The suffocating sense of submersion came in waves, threatening to swallow her whole!


    She opened her mouth slightly, finding herself too anxious and stunned to utter a word!

 Chapter 105: She Chickened Out

    <h4>Chapter 105</h4>


    "Get some good rest, don''t think too much about it. Leave the other matters for me to handle," he said.


    Not hearing her reply, he still felt a little disappointed.


    Rong Dai swallowed and his words made her feel more and more anxious.


    But just as she wanted to speak, Huo Shao Ting had already let her go and turned his back to her to sleep.


    In the darkness, Rong Dai couldn''t see anything. But her eyes stared nkly in that direction, lost in thought.


    What did he believe in her?


    She wasn''t the original Rong Dai at all.


    All kinds ofplex feelings churned in Rong Dai''s heart. Panic and helplessness mixed together. Hearing his steady breathing, she strangely wanted to cry again.


    Her heart felt like it was being burned by zing fire, scalded by hot oil. She felt extremely ufortable.


    But Huo Shao Ting didn''t speak again. The words stuck on her tongue still didn''te out.


    Hearing his even breathing, she could only give up. Sighing in her heart, she fell asleep.


    She hade to ept heaven''s punishment after all. These days, she enjoyed Huo Shao Ting''s gentle care and concern. But she had forgotten about the sins shemitted in her previous life.


    How could the heavenly lord still give her the qualification to be happy?


    Rong Dai''s heart surged with sadness. Indeed, after joyes sorrow. After reaching the peak of the mountain, all that awaits is the downward slope.


    How could she be so naive to think that she could really have any future with Huo Shao Ting?


    Not only was her heart sad, but a part of her heart was also silently mocking and ridiculing her for overreaching herself and being greedy.


    That night, Rong Dai slept very ufortably. When she got up in the morning, Huo Shao Ting was no longer by her side. There was no sound of water in the bathroom either.


    As expected...


    Rong Dai leaned powerlessly against the pillow, staring nkly at the ceiling.


    As expected, she had wanted too much.


    Huo Shao Ting was the head of apany. Being tricked by her a few times, how could he not get angry?


    She forgot that back when the emperor was still a prince, he had treated her the same way too.


    But afterwards, there were thousands of changes, and everything ended in sorrow.


    She forgot that she should not have let her heart be disturbed from the very beginning. Now she had suffered bitterness again.


    The bedroom was silent for a long time before Rong Dai got up dispiritedly from the bed. As usual, she tidied up the bed, then went into the bathroom to wash up.


    In order to make herself look a little more spirited, she changed into a long ankle-length yellow dress that entuated her slender waist and disyed the beautiful lines of her figure, dispersing some of the haggardness in herplexion.


    Only then did she notice the news on her phone.


    Weibo had been in an uproar all nightst night. The amount of gossip from yesterday alone was enough forizens to chew on all night.


    Everyone could only think that Rong Dai was vicious. Although Wen Sha Lan was hateful, as her rtive, wanting her to get a lighter sentence was just human nature.


    But no one expected that in the video released by the Wen family, Rong Dai and the young miss of the Huo family were so vicious. The two had directly scared the olddy into fainting.


    First, arge group ofizens unanimously cursed Rong Dai, using extremely malicious words. They wished they could dig up and dismember the graves of Rong Dai''s eighteen generations of ancestors.


    Seeing thesements, Rong Dai''s face only showed a faint smile. She waspletely indifferent to theirments now.


    But theizens never expected that in the middle of the night, a big V from the Huo family directly @ the Wen family''s big V ount, and released twoparative videos.


    This exploded the entirework. Early this morning, the entire Weibo was paralyzed.


    The vicious words previously used on Rong Dai were now overwhelmingly sprayed at the Wen family. Some even directly cursed for the olddy to go to heaven early.


    Seeing this, Rong Dai smiled shallowly.


    What more could she say?


    Although Huo Shao Ting would suspect and distrust her because of this, she would not regret doing so.


    She didn''t harm anyone, but she also didn''t want to be framed by others.


    The Wen family''s olddy had no enmity with her, yet wanted to ruin her reputation. How could she tolerate that?


    If she endured, her thirty years as Empress in her previous life would have been in vain.


    Seeing thesements and thinking of her almost sleepless anxietyst night, Rong Dai suddenly felt relieved.


    At worst, wouldn''t the result just be her divorcing Huo Shao Ting and taking on huge debts herself?


    What could be worse than that?


    She would not give up and admit defeat so easily. She had already lost so terribly in her previous life. She had experienced such painful and unbearable things that she had nothing left to fear.


    She took a deep breath to settle the various thoughts in her heart. Picking up her phone, she registered a Weibo ount for herself.


    Nickname: A Bodhi Seed


    Bio: May I be like the bodhi, my body like vaidurya, clear inside and out.


    Then she posted a line of poetry: Resenting others'' fickle hearts for long, disturbance arose from t ground for no reason.


    Then she turned off her phone screen and went downstairs. She saw her young aunt busy loading luggage into the car to send grandma off.


    "Mom, are you going on a long trip?"


    Rong Dai asked. Lu Zheng looked over at her and saw that she still looked a little unwell. She said, "I''ll be gone for a few days. After the court hearing, I''lle back. This time, that olddy failed to scheme against you. With grandma not home, she won''t be able to find someone else and wille looking for me again."


    "We can''tpromise this time. This concerns your life and we can''t give in. Shao Ting is handling things, so don''t worry and don''t overthink it. Just focus on what you need to do."


    Lu Zheng exhorted her, still worried about the rtionship between her and her son.


    Last night, it seemed like something had happened between the two. This morning her son had left early for thepany without even eating breakfast.


    Rong Dai nodded, "I will. Mom, you also pay attention to safety and keep us updated."


    Lu Zheng nodded. She was still somewhatforted.


    Then she got in the car and Uncle Li sent her to the airport.


    "Done!" Huo Mei Shu pped her hands and walked over to lean her shoulder against hers. "Sis-inw, don''t worry. This matter will only backfire on the Wen family."


    Rong Dai nodded. She didn''t want to think about this for now. She would just let Huo Shao Ting handle it.


    After breakfast, Huo Shao Jie had to rush off for work on his new drama. Huo Mei Shu also had to prepare for her own personal music.


    Rong Dai also took a car to Jiang Ling''s ce. Over the past few days, it had been Huo Shao Ting sending her over. Today, with no one by her side, she felt like something was missing from her heart.


    She looked at the lush green leaves in the yard and pushed open the fence to walk in. The old man was practicing tai chi.


    "Howe after I let you rest for a day yesterday, you stirred up such a bigmotion? That boy really takes after you, actually getting into a fight and hitting someone."


    Seeing here over, Old Man Jiang stopped his fists and sat down on a stone stool to wipe his sweat with a handkerchief.


    Rong Dai smiled bitterly. It seemed that everything had changed just because of yesterday.


    "Uncle Jiang, don''t tease me. I''m already notorious now."


    "Not feeling well?" Jiang Ling looked up at her and saw her forced smile.


    Rong Dai nodded. How could she feel good?


    She had never felt so flustered before. Last night, she desperately wanted to confess everything. It would be a matter of life or death with just a single thought.


    But she thought of Huo Shao Ting''s all kinds of gentleness and thoughtfulness towards her, as well as all kinds of mess that could happen. She suddenly shrank back.

 Chapter 106: What He Gave

    <h4>Chapter 106</h4>


    "How is your leg?" Jiang Ling ignored her question and looked at her ankle. She was wearing a pair of white ts.


    Her skin was fair, and the startling knife scar looked like an ugly centipede coiled around her ankle. The bright red color was ghastly.


    Rong Dai nodded, "I can walk, just can''t jump or run. I''m still doing rehab."


    "That''s good. I''ll take you to a few studios to have a look. You won''t have to do much walking," Jiang Ling nodded and then went inside to change clothes. Rong Dai sat quietly in the yard waiting.


    She watched the morning light filter through the leaves, casting delicate shadows on the ground. Her heart felt empty, as if it had been hollowed out overnight.


    "Let''s go," Jiang Ling had changed into clothes and was wearing a ck hat on his head.


    Rong Dai nodded, and the two of them got into the car one after the other. On the way, Rong Dai''s thoughts were not on visiting the studio set, but on watching the soaring skyscrapers speeding by outside, her heart filled with mncholy.


    When they arrived at the studio, the director was already there waiting for Jiang Ling.


    "Old Jiang! Rare of you toe to Shengjing!"


    Rong Dai stood quietly to the side watching their small talk. Jiang Ling beckoned her over and introduced her to Director Jiang Haijiang.


    After chatting for a while, they got right to business and Jiang Ling took her around the studio set.


    It was a martial arts film, and the lead actress was an up-anding ingenue.


    Rong Dai watched them flying through the air suspended by wires, and she couldn''t help but feel terrified.


    "To be an actor you have to observe andprehend a lot yourself. Nothinges without willingness to put in effort. Do you know what that brat went through to get me toe out of retirement and help you?" Jiang Ling sat on a small stool next to her, eyes on the actors in the scene, and asked her.


    Rong Dai was startled, somewhat apprehensively asked: "What did he give up?"


    "A pocket watch left to him by his father. I just wanted the brat to give up, since I''ve already retired from the industry and didn''t want to get involved again."


    Jiang Ling exined. He nced over at Rong Dai, "Who knew the brat just straight up handed it over. That thing might be worthless junk to others, but to him it held tremendous meaning. I didn''t expect he would actually be willing to part with it."


    "So I wanted toe take a look, just what kind of character could make him give up something so dear to his heart to ask me for help. That watch was the only thing left intact on the scene when his father died."


    Rong Dai was dumbstruck, her face pale with disbelief as she looked at Jiang Ling, rendered speechless for a long time.


    Why would he do this?


    "Hard to believe right? I couldn''t believe it either, but he did give it to me." Jiang Ling smiled meaningfully.


    "These eyes of mine, I won''t boast that they canpete with celestial eyes, but I can still discern what kind of person someone is."


    He turned to look at Rong Dai again. The two of them were sitting far apart with few people around, so Rong Dai could hear him clearly.


    "That brat has a sincere heart, that''s a good thing. I used to think he would stay a lifelong bachelor, didn''t expect he would get married."


    "His attention is on you, but your heart is not on him. You don''t trust him."


    "I..."


    "Don''t rush to refute me. I can see people decently with these eyes of mine. Can you honestly say you can truly face him?"


    Rong Dai was about to defend herself when Jiang Ling raised his hand signaling her not to speak.


    "If you just want to use him as a stepping stone, then I advise you don''t overdo it. The Huo and He families are currently like water and fire. You don''t understand what you went through with the Huo family. Although the Wen family is no match for that brat, he still has an uncle watching for any weaknesses."


    Jiang Ling spoke heavily. He admired this girl, but a person''s eyes could reveal many things.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were pretty, but they contained too many things, not pure.


    "I brought you to visit the studio set today to tell you, things thate easy often have greater costs down the line. I didn''t attend your wedding banquet and don''t know about your matters."


    "But now it''s sensational news online. He''s busy handling things for you upfront, while you''re listless and dejected in the back like a wronged child wanting mommy''sfort. Do you think you''ve lived up to his efforts?"


    Jiang Ling asked sharply. Rong Dai was rendered speechless.


    Huo Shaoting had indeed done a lot for her. On careful reflection, she really hadn''t done anything.


    "If you want to learn from me, you''ll need to have the right attitude. Don''t think making me a few breakfasts will win me over. And regardless if you want to make it in the industry or not, if you weren''t his wife, you wouldn''t even get into this studio set today."


    Jiang Ling''s words were extremely sharp and blunt. For most people this would be hard to take.


    But Rong Dai was unusually quiet, without any rebuttal.


    "I understand, thank you Uncle Jiang."


    Secondster, she raised her head to look steadily at Jiang Ling, not avoiding his piercing gaze.


    "Good that you understand. Watch closely today, there are still many scenes to watch. Summarize your thoughts when you get back and turn in your homework to me tomorrow." Jiang Ling said, then got up and strolled around the set with his hands behind his back.


    Rong Dai secretly let out a breath. To avoid drawing too much attention, she took out a white cap from her bag and put it on, then brought out a notebook to take diligent notes.


    Jiang''s words had reminded her.


    No matter her rtionship with Huo Shaoting, she couldn''t let his efforts go to waste.


    Rong Dai spent the whole day immersed in the studio set, watching closely and taking meticulous notes.


    Not until the sky grew dark did Jiang, somewhat tired, take her back.


    "Uncle Jiang, will wee again tomorrow?" Rong Dai couldn''t help asking on the ride back.


    When focused on a task, she could forget all troubles.


    "Want toe again?" Jiang couldn''t helpughing.


    Rong Dai nodded earnestly, "Reading ten thousand books cannotpare to traveling ten thousand miles. Visiting the studio set and observing in person is very beneficial."


    She had gained insights from the day.


    "We''ll see after you turn in your homework tomorrow. You''ll have toe early too. That brat hired me, but I''m still charging tuition. Letting you just make breakfast is already very reasonable," Jiang saidughing.


    Rong Dai nodded, "I will."


    "Go back and rest." Jiang waved his hand. The driver brought Rong Dai back to the Huo residence. Perhaps exhausted from the studio, she fell asleep in the car.


    When she awoke, they had arrived.


    She got out of the car and went in to find the house cold and empty, with only Auntie Wang busy in the kitchen.


    After changing shoes, she went into the kitchen and asked Auntie Wang, "Auntie Wang, do you need help with anything?"


    In her past life she would never have asked this. But now things were different. She didn''t have seven or eight maids waiting on her, so she could only rely on herself.

 Chapter 107: Up All Night

    <h4>Chapter 107</h4>


    "The madam is back, young master and young miss are both upstairs, and there are only two more dishes before the meal can be served. The madam can go rest for a bit, wash up and wait for a moment."


    Wang Ma looked back at her and said.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly. "Didn''t Shao Ting say he wasing back?"


    Wang Ma didn''t notice her expression and was focused on the food in the pot. She directly answered her, "Eldest young master called and said he won''t being back for dinner tonight."


    Rong Dai responded somewhat gloomily. The emotions she had temporarily suppressed in her heart came bubbling up again.


    Could it be because she didn''t respond to himst night that he was a little annoyed deep down?


    She went back to the living room and sat on the sofa. She took out her phone and looked at the name on WeChat. She hesitated for a long time before sending over a sentence: Do you need me to cook ate-night snack for you?


    Until Wang Ma brought the dishes to the table, she still hadn''t received a message back from Huo Shao Ting. Her heart inexplicably sank with sourness.


    "Sister-inw, you look very tired today. Is it because learning from Teacher Jiang is too tiring?"


    When Huo Mei Shu came downstairs and saw her somewhat unpleasant expression, she asked worriedly.


    "It''s nothing, I''m just not quite used to it yet." Rong Dai hurriedly collected herself to answer her.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded and stood on the stairs to call for Huo Shao Jie toe down for dinner.


    Rong Dai still hadn''t received a message back from Huo Shao Ting. She didn''t have much of an appetite during dinner either. She just apanied Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie to eat a little before putting her chopsticks down and making an excuse to go upstairs.


    "Don''t you feel like big brother and sister-inw have been a bit strange since yesterday?"


    Although Huo Mei Shu wasn''t very perceptive, Rong Dai''s mood was clearly very off. Of course she could tell.


    Huo Shao Jie didn''t pay much attention to those details: "Don''t you know what kind of person Teacher Jiang is? Big brother asked him to give sister-inw some pointers. Of course she''d be a little tired. I''d find it strange if she wasn''t tired."


    Huo Mei Shu immediately scowled and gave him a very disgusted look. "No wonder you can''t get a girlfriend!"


    Saying so, she got up from the table and left. She went to the kitchen to grab some fruit and brought it to Rong Dai''s room to find her.


    "Sister-inw." Huo Mei Shu''s face revealed a smile as she carried the fruit over to the desk. Her gaze carefully sized up Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai found her behavior amusing and couldn''t help sighing lightly. She had never lost control of her emotions like this before.


    "Is it because big brother didn''te back that you''re feeling down? Don''t worry, he''s just dealing with things at thepany. This is already amon urrence."


    Seeing that her expression had eased up, Huo Mei Shu immediately came to her brother''s defense.


    Rong Dai sighed, her eyes revealing a hint of mncholy. "I guess you could say that."


    She hesitated for a moment before asking the little sister-inw, "Mei Shu, does Shao Ting really dislike it when people around him keep secrets from him?"


    "I wouldn''t say that exactly. It depends on who the person is and what the secret is."


    "Then what if it was a very important secret?"


    "Sister-inw, don''t tell me you have some especially shocking secret that you''ve kept from my big brother! My heart can''t take it."


    Huo Mei Shu immediately realized what she meant and dramatically clutched her chest.


    Rong Dai sighed. "Of course not, but don''t worry, I''ll tell him. It''s not a big deal either, so don''t worry."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, half believing and half doubtful. Seeing that Rong Dai still had work to do, she didn''t stay for long.


    After Rong Dai finished the task Teacher Jiang had given her, it was already past 11 pm. Her eyes were tired and her whole body felt exhausted.


    She took out her phone to take a look. Seeing there was still no message from Huo Shao Ting, her heart instantly sank. She typed and deleted words on the screen for almost half an hour but didn''t end up sending anything out. She could only sigh and go take a shower and sleep.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''te back all night and didn''t reply to her message either. Looking at the darkened phone screen, Rong Dai felt heavy-hearted, as if pressed down by a huge boulder.


    She washed up and went downstairs for breakfast.


    Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie were also there. Seeing that the color had returned to Rong Dai''s face, the little sister-inw instantly felt much more relieved.


    Just as the three of them were eating breakfast, several cars came honking loudly at the entrance to the Huo residence. It was very noisy.


    "Who''s being so rude this early in the morning?" Huo Mei Shu''s temper red up instantly.


    "Madam, young miss, young master, the second master''s side has arrived."


    Wang Ma hurriedly came in to inform the three of them.


    Before Rong Dai could react, she saw the other two''s expressions turn extremely ugly, looking as if they were confronted with a formidable enemy.


    She suddenly recalled what Huo Mei Shu had told her before - when Huo Shao Ting''s father passed away, the people on Second Master Huo''s side strongly opposed the hereditary system of the family business, determined to seize thepany.


    Rong Dai knew about these kinds of power struggles withinrge family ns. She immediately became guarded as well.


    "It must be because of that wretched Huo Linjing! Rong Dai, you wench,e out here!"


    Before they even entered the door, an extremely shrill, angry female voice charged in.


    Rong Dai, Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie''s expressions instantly darkened. Being cursed at early in the morning, who could tolerate it?


    Sure enough, Huo Linjing pushed the door open. Behind her was arge group of people swaggering in like bandits. Several security guards from the residential area followed them in as well.


    Huo Shao Jie''s face was gloomy as he signaled for the security guards to leave.


    If they could block Second Master Huo''s people, that would be a miracle.


    "So you''re Rong Dai?! You wench, to cause such a huge uproar! Are you trying to drive the Wen family to their deaths?!"


    Huo Linjing''s fiery gaze urately found Rong Dai. Stomping in sharp high heels, she charged over wanting to hit her!


    Rong Dai could tell her intentions and didn''t want to confront her head-on, so she took two steps back.


    As a result��


    Bang!


    Huo Linjing didn''t stand firmly herself. Her foot twisted and her entire body tumbled back,nding squarely on her backside!


    This loud noise stunned everyone in the living room. No one expected that Huo Linjing, who had charged in so aggressively and seemed ready to im victory, would end up "shooting herself in the foot" and falling t on the ground herself!


    Rong Dai looked in astonishment at Huo Linjing who had fallen on the floor with a twisted, pained expression. A few secondster, she forcefully suppressed her urge tough. Her gaze swept over each of the fierce, sinister-looking people from Second Master Huo''s side.


    They were looking at her as if she owed them billions, with eyes of utter hatred!

 Chapter 108: Offering Tea to the Queen of the Kingdom

    <h4>Chapter 108</h4>


    "Pfft! Hahaha--"


    Yong Dai held back herughter, but Huo Mei Shuughed unabashedly, her devilishughter echoing throughout the Huo household living room, extremely loud!


    "Huo Linjing, even if you''re shocked by sister-inw Yong''s stunning beauty, there''s no need to be so excited! We can''t ept such a grand gesture!"


    Huo Mei Shuughed until she was nearly out of breath, with tearsing out of her eyes. She had to hold her waist as she looked at Huo Linjing, who was lying on the ground like an overturned crab, and didn''t forget to mock and ridicule her.


    Huo Linjing had fallen hard on her back, the back of her head throbbing with pain. Seeing Huo Mei Shu not onlyughing wildly but also ridiculing her, Huo Linjing''s face turned green with anger!


    Yong Dai noticed that the faces of Huo Linjing''s family were all very gloomy. There was a middle-aged couple, an old man leaning on a cane, and two other men. One of them looked around the same age as Huo Shaoting.


    "Huo Mei Shu, you really have less and less family education. How did Lu Zheng teach you? Your own sister falls down and you don''t go help her up, instead standing thereughing?"


    The middle-aged woman spoke up, looking at the two of them with disgust, her face slightly arrogant.


    "That''s Second Uncle Huo Feng, and Auntie Jiang Qiaoqing, a long-tongued one. That''s Huo Jun, around the same age as my dad. The one is his eldest son, Huo Shaoqian, a year younger than Eldest Brother. You have to watch out for him. That one is Huo Shaoming, a good-for-nothing yboy. And this is Huo Linjing. There''s another young aunt who''s not back from overseas yet, Huo Lanqin, also not a good one."


    Huo Mei Shu ignored Jiang Qiaoqing''s expression and introduced Huo Second Uncle''s family members neither too loudly nor too softly to Yong Dai.


    Yong Dai nodded. This Second Uncle''s family did not get along with their family. Originally, she and Huo Shaoting had a low-key civil marriage, just had a meal with the family afterwards, then made it public and considered it done.


    However, the way the little sister-inw introduced them, she also insulted them personally.


    She noticed Auntie''s face was very ugly already. Huo Linjing struggled up from the ground, staring at them round-eyed, unable to get a word out for half a day with one hand on her waist.


    "Hmph, birds of a feather flock together. Being able to marry someone of this character, no wonder Huo Mei Shu your manners are bing worse and worse."


    Jiang Qiaoqing was thoroughly ignored by the sister-inws and her face couldn''t hold. She went up and pretended to help Huo Linjing, while still mocking the little sister-inw.


    Yong Dai frowned slightly. From what the little sister-inw said just now, she could understand why this Second Uncle Huo''s family hade to visit.


    However, they were guests that had arrived. Their rudeness was their business. With no one else home right now, as the eldest sister-inw, she should of course treat guests with courtesy, and even more so could not let outsiders bully her own family.


    "Auntie Wang, go prepare some hot tea and snacks."


    She quickly adjusted her mindset, a smile appearing on her face, and gave the little sister-inw a reassuring look.


    Huo Shaojie also immediately understood. Although they did not wee Second Uncle Huo''s sideing to make trouble, since they hade to the door, they should be given a chance to speak.


    "Second Uncle, please sit. Uncle and Auntie, please sit too. Let''s sit down and slowly talk about whatever you have to say." He gestured for Second Uncle Huo''s family to sit down.


    Jiang Qiaoqing gave a cold humph, helping her daughter to sit down on the sofa.


    Huo Feng of Second Uncle Huo had a full head of white hair, over eighty years old, but still hale and hearty. His sharp old eyes had been sizing up Yong Dai since they entered.


    But Yong Dai was not afraid of this kind of gaze.


    Other than avoiding Huo Shaoting''s gaze due to her guilty conscience, she had never feared anyone else.


    A faint smile was on her face as she watched therge family sit down, a sh of deeper meaning in her eyes.


    Since they were willing to sit down, it meant they hade to resolve matters, and not truly make trouble.


    Then this matter could be resolved.


    "Mei Shu, bring Miss Huo upstairs to apply some medicinal oil. Auntie Wang had just mopped the floors this morning so they''re slippery. Next time, Miss Huo, you''ll have to be more careful."


    Before Huo Linjing could finish yelling, Yong Dai took a cup of hot tea from the tray Auntie Wang brought over and interrupted her tirade, speaking in a very gentle tone.


    Although she had a smile on her face, her entire bearing gave off a sense of prestige and propriety that made Huo Linjing''s heart inexplicably tighten!


    Huo Mei Shu was more than happy to agree.


    "What nonsense medicinal oil! I don''t care for it at all! Today I came to find you--"


    "Second Uncle Huo, this is the first time Yong Dai is meeting you. I was impolite just now, please forgive me. I should serve tea to an elder like you. Second Uncle must not take offense at an ignorant junior like me. Any matters can be discussed when Shaoting returns."


    Before Huo Linjing could finish yelling, Yong Dai took a cup of hot tea from the tray Auntie Wang brought and interrupted her, speaking neither humbly nor arrogantly, politely serving tea to Huo Feng.


    Huo Feng sized her up for several seconds without taking the steaming hot tea, only saying lightly, "This matter can be resolved with just you, no need for Shaoting''s involvement."


    If it could be resolved with Huo Shaoting, why would theye at this time?


    Yong Dai gave a faint smile, not answering him right away. This trivial nitpicking she had seen many times before.


    Seeing Huo Feng not taking the tea, Huo Shaojie and Huo Mei Shu''s faces didn''t look good.


    "Sister-inw..."


    "It''s fine if Second Uncle doesn''t want to drink tea now, I''ll just leave it here for you."


    The little sister-inw had just opened her mouth when Yong Dai continued speaking gently, directly cing the cup of tea on the table.


    She wouldn''t joke around. If someone didn''t give her, an empress, face when she respectfully served tea, was she supposed to keep holding it up forever?


    Seeing her put down the teacup, Huo Feng''s expression became a little gloomy.


    Huo Jun and Jiang Qiaoqing also looked displeased, thinking Yong Dai was too rude andpletely unfit to be a part of their Huo family.


    "Country bumpkin is country bumpkin, doesn''t understand any etiquette at all!"


    Huo Linjing had a stomach full of anger and nowhere to vent it, so she took every opportunity to say malicious things.


    Yong Dai nced at her faintly, that aloof and indifferent look mixed with propriety and prestige.


    "Miss Huo, since you brought up etiquette, may I ask how I have no etiquette?"


    "Serving tea to elders, the elder hasn''t even epted it yet, and you just put it down. That''s grandfather! I''m already being polite saying you have no etiquette!"


    Huo Linjing immediately pounced on the opportunity to berate her coldly.


    Huo Shaoqian at the side hadn''t spoken at all, because Huo Shaojie was right next to him so he didn''t have a chance.


    But he watched Yong Dai''s demeanor very clearly, especially the faintly upturned smile at the corner of her lips.


    "Is that so? Since I''m from the countryside, I really don''t know. Miss Huo, could you demonstrate for me?"


    She looked at Huo Linjing with a faint smile.


    "Why should I teach you? Even if I taught you, do you think you''d have any opportunities to use it? The Huo family doesn''t even recognize you! Otherwise why didn''t Huo Shaoting hold a wedding ceremony with you? Can''t even meet the Huo family, what right do you have to call yourself a Huo family wife?"


    Huo Linjing still had some brains and didn''t immediately take the bait, but her words were deliberately trying to humiliate Yong Dai.

 Chapter 109: To the point of Death

    <h4>Chapter 109</h4>


    If these words were heard by a newly married young daughter-inw, she would definitely not be able to bear it.


    But who is Rong Dai?


    In her previous life, she was the empress of a nation, and the storms and thorns she experienced were beyond what a small character like Huo Linjing could imagine.


    "The wedding is just a formality. I married Shaoting, our marriage was arranged by the state, and had grandma and mom as witnesses. Our family had a simple meal, and I felt it was good enough. Maybe because that day was too busy, I forgot to invite you, which made you ufortable. I can understand, after all, you still remember your surname is Huo."


    Rong Dai''s face still had a smile, her voice was also very gentle, but there was meaning within her words, which made Huo Linjing''s face turn green again.


    "As for you saying I should serve tea, I served tea to Er Ye, also because you are surnamed Huo. Anyway, you have the Huo family bloodline in you."


    The smile on her face suddenly faded, and the majestic aura of the past thirty years invisibly emanated from her again.


    Her eyes nced over the Huo Er Ye''s family, and finallynded on Huo Feng.


    "Since you want to discuss rules, then let me ask, isn''t this house where our family lives now? You burst in like bandits, can you say I don''t understand rules?"


    "You came up wanting to hit me. In name, whether you admit it or not, I am your eldest sister-inw. To be precise, you should serve me tea. Coming in to hit your eldest sister-inw, I have never heard of such upbringing."


    "And auntie, you keep talking about upbringing, but look how unruly and ill-mannered you have taught your daughter to be. I really don''t know how you can speak of upbringing from that mouth of yours? Aren''t you afraid your mouth will rot?"


    "They all say guests should be treated well. Now grandma and my mother-inw are not at home, and Shaoting is still at thepany handling things. I am the elder in this house and the hostess. Youing to my house to teach me rules, auntie, is this your upbringing?"


    Rong Dai asked back word by word methodically, not at all afraid of their anger.


    "You..."


    "When elders speak, first, juniors should not interrupt casually. Miss Huo, since you want to discuss propriety with me, this is the first rule I will teach you."


    Seeing Huo Linjing getting so angry her face turned red and green wanting to interrupt, her eyes looked over sharply, her expression very majestic.


    Huo Linjing was shocked, suddenly at a loss for words to refute!


    "What a glib tongue!" When had Jiang Qiaoqing ever been ridiculed like this? Of course her expression was not good.


    "Thank you for yourpliment, auntie, but I have no grievances or grudges with you, I don''t even know you, so what gives you the right to lecture me on propriety? I think Meishu has never received a grain of rice or a drop of water from your favor, so you don''t seem to have the right to reprimand her either."


    "I call you auntie out of respect for the Huo surname. If I were you, I would not boast so much in front of my husband. Too many words will inevitably lead to slips."


    She shifted her gaze to Jiang Qiaoqing. She knew about the Huo family''s past, and from the attitude of the young aunt and uncle, they clearly harbored deep hatred towards this family.


    "I also have something to say to Er Ye Huo. Since this is a visit, you should act like a guest. What our rtionship is with Er Ye''s family, I don''t need to borate, do I?"


    "By not bringing it up, it''s to leave some leeway for both sides. Don''t make a mountain out of a molehill, or p gold paint on your own face. Calling you Er Ye is already giving you a lot of face."


    "You all came today, deliberately waiting until Shaoting is not home, wanting to take advantage of your greater numbers to force me to forgive Wen Shi Lan..."


    She hesitated for a moment. In therge hall, her voice was clear but full of majesty.


    "I think you''ve miscalcted, or rather, Granny Wen had the wrong idea. Just two days ago, she schemed against me. If you want to learn how to take candid pictures, Huo Shaoming, be more professional about it."


    Her gaze suddenly fell on Huo Shaoming, her expression seemed to be smiling.


    Huo Meishu was shocked, she leapt up and charged at Huo Shaoming, and as expected found a miniature camera in his pocket.


    "Birds of a feather flock together. I''ll return those words verbatim to you, Miss Jiang."


    Rong Dai''s smile became a little cold.


    Jiang Qiaoqing''s expression was unpleasant, but in this battle of words she was no match for Rong Dai. Moreover, there was something sinister about this woman that made her involuntarily feel afraid in her heart.


    Huo Jun had not spoken all this time. Now was when he should say something.


    "Rong Dai, right? You still need to be more modest in your speech and actions. You just arrived at the Huo family..."


    "Sorry, uncle. My sister-inw has been at the Huo family for almost half a year. And after my father passed away, your family no longer had the right toe here. Compared to my sister-inw, you are the new arrivals."


    Seeing her eldest sister-inw taking fire from all sides, Huo Meishu was of course unhappy!


    This family was just ungrateful wolves, she definitely could not tolerate this!


    "Er Ye, uncle, if you came today to ask my sister-inw to talk about Wen Shi Lan''s matter... there is nothing to discuss. The court session is the day after tomorrow. Everything awaits the court''s verdict. Her act was attempted murder."


    Huo Shaojie also spoke up in a deep voice.


    He had also just been awed by his sister-inw''s aura earlier. If big brother came back and knew he let his sister-inw face this family alone, he''d be strung up and beaten for three days!


    "There is no room for discussion on this matter." Rong Dai''s gaze was firm, her voice gentle but very resolute.


    "Then are you trying to drive me to my death!? Are you trying to ruin the Wen family, forcing me to marry a poor bastard? Rong Dai, are you that vicious!?"


    When Huo Linjing heard this, she immediately bristled up, craning her neck and angrily questioning her!


    Hearing this, Rong Dai just wanted tough. She was vicious? She was the victim, so how did she be vicious?


    "Huo Linjing, has your brain been crushed by a rock? My sister-inw is vicious? Why don''t you tell Wen Runlin that his sister Wen Shi Lan is vicious? Who you marry has nothing to do with my sister-inw. Between our two families, apart from the Huo surname, there is no longer any blood ties or intimacy. Stop pretending!"


    Huo Meishu was also furious. She finally realized what true shamelessness meant.


    "You, you..." Huo Linjing was so angry her chest heaved. Suddenly she grabbed the fruit knife on the coffee table and shed her arm!


    Fresh blood instantly flowed out!


    "Rong Dai, I''ll say it inly today! If you don''t agree to Granny Wen''s conditions, I''ll die here today! Then you will also be a murderer!"


    Huo Linjing looked at Rong Dai with zing eyes full of desperation. Huo Er Ye''s family also did not expect she would be so bold.


    Huo Meishu and Huo Shaojie were both shocked, looking at the deranged Huo Linjing. They finally understood Left Ran''s madness a little.


    Some people really did go crazy for no reason at all.


    Among all the people present, only Rong Dai, Huo Feng and Huo Shaoqian were the calmest.


    "Wang Ma, go get the first aid kit."


    Rong Dai calmly ordered Wang Ma, then her gaze fell on Huo Linjing, "Miss Huo, if you want me to feel guilty, that sh was too light, and you cut the wrong spot."


    Her eyes were smiling, mixed with some mockery.


    If Huo Linjing really wanted to coerce her with death, she would not have shed her forearm. Anyone with some medical knowledge would choose to slit their wrist.

 Chapter 110: Get You an Ambulance.

    <h4>Chapter 110</h4>


    Miss Huo, go ahead and do it. I''ll make arrangements for an ambnce.


    Yong Dai looked at the Huo family''s frantic state with an indifferent expression. After Wang Ma brought down the first aid kit, she added fuel to the fire.


    Neither Huo ShaoJIe nor Huo Mei Shu expected Huo Linjing to threaten suicide. Caught off guard, they snapped back to their senses when Yong Dai provoked Huo Linjing like that.


    "Yong Dai! What do you mean?! Are you cursing my daughter to die? I''m warning you, if anything happens to my daughter, I won''t let you off!"


    Jiang Qiaoqing was about to go crazy. As she wrapped Huo Linjing''s wound with bandages, she red at Yong Dai furiously.


    "Huo ShaoJIe, with your eldest brother away, are you just going to let an outsider run amok here? Forcing your own sister to hold a knife to herself, what does this look like?"


    Although scared half to death by his daughter, Huo Junxin''s experience helped him keep a cool head. His mind raced, immediately seizing this incident.


    Yong Dai nced over. The fruit knife had already been taken away by Wang Ma.


    "Uncle, your words imply that I forced Miss Huo tomit suicide? May I ask how I did that?"


    This family was really unreasonable. No wonder even the original host didn''t invite them to such a big wedding with Huo Shao Ting.


    "Barging in here like a gang of bandits and causing a ruckus is one thing. On top of that, you immediately attacked your sister-inw when you came in. Wen Shi Lanmitted a crime and should be prosecuted ording to thew.


    "You came to me, asking for my forgiveness. But when I was kidnapped, did I see Second Master and Uncle say a word for me?"


    "Since I''m an outsider to you all, you are also strangers to me. Is this how you plead with someone?"


    "Hitting people, lecturing arrogantly. You whitewash problems and disregard principles. No matter how influential Huo Shao Ting is in Shenjing, he is still a Chinese citizen. Things must be handled ording to Chinesew."


    Her momentum turned sharp. She would not fear people who came to make trouble like this.


    Unless they were really willing to harm the Wen family at any cost, she would have to reassess the situation.


    "Mei Shu, call the police to handle this. Getting me to shelter a murderer would make me an essory, right? Your family may wish to die, but I, Yong Dai, do not."


    "ShaoJIe, arrange for the residential security toe and check the surveince footage before the police arrive. No one is allowed to take half a step out that door."


    "This is the Huo residence, not some dodgy ce. Youe and go as you please. That stops now."


    Her attitude was firm and dignified. She spoke steadily, but carried weight in every word.


    "Yes, sister-inw!"


    Huo Mei Shu reacted immediately. Seeing the Huo family''s ugly expressions, she felt delighted inside.


    The two families had be like water and fire long ago. As a junior, she could be beaten to death by her elders for saying something like this.


    Huo ShaoJIe was also taken aback for a moment before he came to his senses. He promptly strode out to the yard and quickly called Huo Shao Ting.


    "Sister-inw, Linjing was a bit excessive, but as you said, you are sister-inw in name only. There is no need to interact with her in this way."


    Huo Shaoqian, who had not spoken until now, finally opened his mouth.


    Initially, he did not want to get involved in this mess. Whether the Wen family lived or died was of no concern to him.


    The Huo family was currently flourishing, and he was in charge of a branchpany. If profits were up this year, he would have more say at the headquarters.


    The Huo Group was not Huo Shao Ting''s alone.


    Did he think he could monopolize its sess after throwing them some scraps? That was impossible.


    He had beenpeting with Huo Shao Ting for many years, but thetter was ruthless, never giving opponents a chance to catch their breath after striking.


    Huo Shao Ting was like a perfect machine, wless, leaving him at a loss on how to make a move.


    However, his new wife''s frequent scandals recently revealed a weakness Huo Shao Ting cared deeply about.


    This was the only vulnerability he had found so far.


    If utilized well, it could be the weapon to bring Huo Shao Ting down.


    That was why he wanted toe along today to assess this legendary sister-inw. Just her audacity and eloquence proved she was no ordinary woman.


    Atst he understood why the workaholic Huo Shao Ting had married so early. She was different from other women.


    The Wen family was seeking death this time.


    Although not privy to thepany''s core operations, he knew the Wen family''s profits had declined year after year for some time, leeching away much from the Huo Group over the years.


    Yet his father still hoped to use the marriage alliance to defeat Huo Shao Ting. To him, that was a joke.


    What could the Wen family amount to now?


    Internal divisions had already urred. What pirs could Wen Runlin hold up?


    In Shenjing, only Huo Shao Ting stood at the pinnacle. Did Wen Runlin think he could match him? Ridiculous.


    Not to mention Wen Shi Lan''s foolishness and the Wen matriarch''s clumsy, inadequate PR maneuvers.


    Weren''t they just giving Huo Shao Ting a chance to destroy them?


    Yong Dai nced at him coldly. Her gaze held some indifference.


    "Sister-inw? As I said, you are all strangers to me. And I''m younger than her. Young Master Huo, are you joking with me?"


    Since they were up to no good, she saw no need to be polite.


    "Yong Dai, don''t be shameless. My parents and grandfather came to resolve this."


    "I don''t care about yourws. If my sister gets wronged because of you, I will have you killed! Believe me or not?"


    Huo Shaoming was just an idle yboy. He had held back due to something he needed to attend to.


    But when Huo Mei Shu snatched away the hidden camera, it stoked his anger. He immediately red at her, yelling with arched brows.


    Yong Dai gave a coldugh, looking scornfully at Huo Feng. "This is the upbringing in Second Master Huo''s family. I''ve really gained insight today. I''ve made myself very clear. There is no discussion about this matter!"


    "You''re really asking for death!" Huo Shaoming rolled up his sleeve as he stalked toward Yong Dai with eyes wide.


    "Huo Shaoming! Don''t you dare!"


    Seeing this when she came downstairs, Huo Mei Shu immediately grabbed a decorative vase by the stairs and rushed over to shield Yong Dai, blocking Huo Shaoming.

 Chapter 111: Coming to the Bottom

    <h4>Chapter 111</h4>


    "Huo Mei Shu, I''m warning you, today I didn''te here to find you...",


    "You are Huo Shaoming, right?",


    Before he could threaten her, Rong Dai went up and pulled Huo Mei Shu to the side, staring at Huo Shaoming with cold eyes.


    "Yes, you''d better agree to this. Let''s pretend this incident never happened today. And you need to pay my sister''s medical expenses for her hand."


    When he met her gaze, Huo Shaoming''s arrogant temper cooled down a bit, but he still had to say those harsh words.


    Rong Dai sneered, "Then today, the Huo family will pay the cleaning fee for this living room."


    Huo Shaoming''s face changed, he was very angry.


    "Shaoming," Huo Shaoqian called him and signaled with his eyes for him to shut up and stand aside.


    Huo Shaoming was reluctant, but he was still afraid of this big brother.


    "Sister-inw, our visit today was a bit abrupt. Since you are unwilling topromise on this matter, then let it go," said Huo Shaoqian.


    "Huo Shaoqian!"


    Before Rong Dai could respond, Huo Linjing, who had just bandaged her hand, yelled at her again.


    "Huo Linjing, apologize to your sister-inw."


    Huo Shaoqian''s face was calm as he nced at her and spoke firmly in a low voice, leaving no room for refusal.


    Rong Dai watched clearly from the side. It seemed that this uncle didn''t have much say in the Huo family. Huo Shaoqian and the old master were the ones to be most wary of.


    "I won''t! She has ruined the Wen family so badly. I''m about to marry Runlin soon. How am I going to marry into that family?!"


    If it were usual times, Huo Linjing would definitely listen to her big brother.


    But today was different. Neither Huo Shaoteng, Lu Zheng nor old Madam Huo were at home. She wasn''t afraid. She must force Rong Dai topromise!


    Otherwise, when she married into the Wen family, how would they treat her?


    Anyone could guess what would happen.


    "I told you to apologize!" This time, Huo Shaoqian spoke more sternly with knitted brows and flickers of anger.


    Rong Dai didn''t say anything. She pulled Huo Mei Shu to stand aside and asked her to put down the vase.


    When dealing with lunatics and unreasonable people, one must always maintain a safe distance.


    Huo Linjing''s face turned red and white with anger as she stared at Rong Dai resentfully. But she was afraid of big brother Huo Shaoqian when he was angry.


    Now he had the final say in their family. Her father basically had no say at home. If she offended the big brother, what would happen to her dowry?


    But if she just let Rong Dai go like this, wouldn''t her shing her hand be in vain?


    How would she exin it to Granny Wen and Runlin?


    "Shaoqian, she must provide an exnation for this matter today. Your sister is the victim. How can you make excuses for the perpetrator?"


    Jiang Qiaoqing naturally disliked Rong Dai, not only because of the Wen family''s affairs, but also because Rong Dai had retorted her several times earlier. She was fuming inside.


    Huo Shaoqian frowned and looked at Huo Feng meaningfully.


    He had been very clear about this from the start. Huo Shaoteng would not miss this opportunity.


    If it were him, with the Wen family providing such a good chance, if he didn''t take action at this time, when would he?


    Huo Shaoteng was a smart man, and his wife was not an ordinary housewife who could be easily fooled.


    How could Huo Feng not understand his meaning?


    He would not have gotten involved in this matter originally, but his goals were aligned with Huo Shaoqian''s.


    Now that the situation was clear, of course they could not stay and wait for Huo Shaoteng toe back.


    "Apologize to your sister-inw," Huo Feng said heavily. He stood up leaning on his cane, casting a meaningful nce at Rong Dai, and prepared to leave the Huo residence.


    "Grandpa!" Huo Linjing couldn''t believe it. Didn''t theye to get justice for her and the Wen family?


    She had been directly stabbed, but the matter was still unresolved. Were they leaving just like that?


    Wouldn''t her stabbing have been in vain?


    Jiang Qiaoqing also looked at her father-inw in disbelief. But she didn''t dare defy the prestige of the head of the family, and could only look at her sullen husband.


    "Listen to your grandfather and big brother. Apologize to your sister-inw," Huo Jun said heavily after a few seconds of silence, avoiding Jiang Qiaoqing''s gaze.


    Huo Linjing''s face turned deathly pale as she stared at them in disbelief. Were these still her rtives?


    That wasn''t what they had agreed on beforeing here!


    Rong Dai was not at all surprised by the change in attitude of Huo Feng''s family. But Huo Mei Shu was a bit confused.


    "What exactly are these people trying to do?"


    "Probing," Rong Dai said softly.


    With decades of experience in the inner pce in her previous life, she was no amateur. The affairs of the previous dynasty''s inner pce were intricately connected. She had seen countless simr incidents.


    Huo Jun and his wife had no status in the family. They could order the servants around.


    But the masters of the family were old master Huo Feng and eldest son Huo Shaoqian. The ambitions of these two were barely concealed.


    From the moment they entered, they hadn''t said a word. The few words they did sayter were all refuted by her.


    Since the little sister-inw had said before that there was an internal split in the Huo family, and Huo Feng had lost, he must have been dissatisfied.


    And over the years, Huo Shaoteng had been extremely sessful in his work. Although she didn''t know how much hardship he had gone through, being able to make Huo Enterprise thergest in Shengjing took skill. The hardships he endured were unimaginable to ordinary people.


    These two probably had no way to deal with him, while she, as Shaoteng''s new wife, had caused so muchmotion recently.


    More importantly, Shaoteng had gotten into a big public fight for her sake. This may have allowed them to smell an opportunity to take advantage of, so they wanted to probe her bottom line.


    As for dealing with Wen Shn, these two didn''t care at all.


    Although the sisters-inw spoke softly, Huo Shaoqian could hear them clearly. His face was calm as he nced at Rong Dai.


    Seeing that she looked back, he nodded slightly and said softly, "I rudely intruded today, sister-inw. Another day, Shaoqian will definitely treat you to make amends. We won''t disturb you further today."


    Rong Dai made no response, only shifting her gaze to the door.


    Huo Shaoting was already standing there.


    A sh of abnormality passed through Huo Shaoqian''s eyes, although it was fleeting. But Rong Dai saw it clearly. He was afraid of Shaoteng.


    "Leaving already when I just got back?"


    Huo Shaoting strode in with an extremely cold and frosty face. His eyes held a hint of mockery, but were mostly icy.


    At the Huo residence entrance stood seventeen or eighteen burly security guards.


    Seeing this, Huo Linjing, Huo Shaoming, and mother and son Jiang Qiaoqing immediately extinguished their arrogant airs. They shut their mouths and shrank to the side, not daring to speak.


    "I heard someone wanted to hit you. Did you get hurt anywhere? I was handling some urgentpany mattersst night and didn''t get a chance to check your messages, sorry to worry you."


    He walked up to Rong Dai. Although his face was still cold, it had softened a lot and he spoke gently.

 Chapter 112: His Wrath

    <h4>Chapter 112</h4>


    Rong Dai was surprised that the first thing he did when he came back was to exin to her why he didn''t reply to her message. She couldn''t help feeling warmth in her heart, and all the worries fromst night vanished instantly.


    She had a faint smile on her face: "It''s okay."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, then his sharp gaze fell on Huo Linjing.


    Huo Linjing shuddered, huddling with Jiang Qiaoqing. Her face was pale white, her eyes fixed on the floor, not daring to look at Huo Shao Ting.


    "Huo Linjing, you want to settle ounts with my wife?" His voice was mellow, his tone very t and light.


    But those familiar with him knew that the calmer and more indifferent he appeared, the more miserable the other person''s fate would be.


    "I...I didn''t..." Huo Linjing stammered an exnation.


    Seeing Huo Linjing''s appearance, Rong Dai couldn''t help chuckling to herself.


    The cowering, chick-like appearance was a far cry from her previous arrogance and impetuousness.


    As expected, the greedy are often taken advantage of, and careless riders often fall from their horses.


    "No?" His voice suddenly rose dangerously!


    Huo Linjing shivered, huddling tightly next to Jiang Qiaoqing.


    Jiang Qiaoqing''s face was also white. She wanted to seek help from her husband, but he sat on the sofa like an ostrich, silent, not even raising his head.


    Needless to say about Huo Shaoming, who had obediently stood against the wall without even daring to breathe loudly.


    "Big brother, we were a little abrupt, but since you and sister-inw got married without telling us, we could onlye to visit."


    Huo Shaoqian exined with an insincere smile.


    Huo Shao Ting''s sharp gaze fell on him, and a faint smile appeared on his cold, stern face: "Visit? I and the people living in this mansion have never weed your visit."


    Huo Shaoqian did not expect him to still be as domineering as before. His face stiffened slightly.


    "Huo, I still call you Huo now and give you this face. I was young at that time, but it doesn''t mean I have forgotten. "


    "Now that I am willing to give you a meal, you''d better tuck your tails and live properly, stay out of my sight, and don''t upset me."


    "Also, Huo Shaoqian, don''t think I don''t know what you are doing in the branchpany. You still have time to meddle in Wen''s business when I was dealing with thingsst night? I think you can go back to the branchpany and take a look first."


    "You know very well what projects you have invested in Suzhou. Hitting such an obvious target, yet you still want to collide forward, what qualifications do you have topete with me?"


    Huo Shao Ting shielded Rong Dai behind him, standing upright like a strong pine on a rocky peak.


    Although his tone was calm when he spoke, it was full of authority, oppressing Huo Shaoqian so that he could not breathe.


    When he heard the word "Suzhou", Huo Shaoqian''s face changed drastically. He hurriedly took out his phone to call his assistant.


    Just then his assistant''s call came in. He nced at Huo Shao Ting anxiously and hurried aside to answer the call.


    "Huo Feng, I have never forgotten the grudges from decades ago for a second. Back then you emptied Huo''s Enterprise, leaving only an empty shell, watching my father at his wits'' end."


    "You have already taken everything from the original Huo''s Enterprise. Today''s Huo''s Enterprise has nothing to do with you at all. If you want to make headlines again, I can satisfy you. I can pay out of my own pocket to buy exclusive coverage from all of Shenjing''s media, giving you a different expose every month, what do you think? "


    After dealing with Huo Shaoqian, he turned his gaze to Huo Feng.


    He had no scruples, directly calling out his name.


    Although Rong Dai was standing behind him, she could clearly feel the hatred and resentment emanating from Huo Shao Ting.


    She instinctively reached out and took his warm palm, although she could not imagine everything he had experienced, she could clearly feel the turmoil in his heart at this moment.


    She felt heartache for the man in front of her.


    When he grasped her soft and fragile palm, he tightened his grip and took a deep breath, controlling his emotions.


    Hearing his words, Huo Feng''s old eyes widened in shock, staring at him for a long time, unable to say a word.


    "Huo Shaoting! What on earth have you done?!"


    After finishing the call, Huo Shaoqian was furious andpletely lost hisposure, shouting at him, but didn''t daree forward, as he was much shorter than Huo Shaoting.


    Huo Shaoting was nearly six feet three inches tall, while Huo Shaoqian was only slightly taller than Rong Dai, a whole head shorter.


    "Made you my enemy."


    Huo Shaoting answered indifferently. He started unbuttoning his suit jacket, leading Rong Dai to sit down on a dining room chair, then ordered Uncle Li, "Throw away this sofa and get a new one. This house will have none of their belongings, I want it clean."


    "You!" Huo Shaoqian was so angry that his face turned green, staring at him with great hatred!


    But Huo Shaoting couldn''t be bothered with him. Instead, his gaze fell on Huo Feng, "More than twenty years ago, this is how you treated my dad. Now I''m returning it in kind. From today on, Huo''s Enterprise will have no rtionship with you at all."


    Huo Feng''s face kept turning green and white. His old eyes stared tightly at him, and the hand holding the cane kept shaking.


    "This time if you hadn''t been in such a hurry to help the Wen family, maybe I wouldn''t have acted so quickly. Huo Shaoqian, this game was over for you from the moment you invested in that Suzhou project. Are you satisfied with this oue?"


    Huo Shaoting''s tone was cold, emanating a ruthless aura.


    Sitting next to him, others may not feel it, but Rong Dai could sense the hatred and anger in his heart.


    She could only hold his hand tightly, trying to give him some strength.


    "Huo Shaoting! I''m also part of the Huo family, what right do you have to..."


    "Right? You''re talking to me about rights? You eat from my hand and talk to me about rights?"


    Huo Shaoting was overbearing. His words made Huo Shaoqian almost spit blood!


    "Grandpa!" Huo Feng suddenly convulsed, while Huo Shaoming just wanted to escape. Seeing Huo Feng copse, he immediately rushed over.


    Rong Dai frowned, the old man looked like he was...having a stroke.


    "Take him away. Deal with the rest. Huo Shaojie, if you let these people break in again next time, I''ll send you to Africa to film documentaries, believe it or not?"


    Huo Shaoting''s eyes were cold as he red at Huo Shaojie.


    Huo Shaojie tensed up immediately and busied himself. An ambnce had been waiting outside, so Old Master Huo was carried away quickly.


    Huo Shaoqian still had to go deal with the branchpany affairs, while the remaining few didn''t even have the courage to face Huo Shaoting, so of course they also slunk away dejectedly.


    The noisy Huo mansion quieted down again.


    Rong Dai realized her hand was being gripped a little too tightly by him. Looking over, she saw exhaustion on his face, probably from being sleepless all night.


    "Shaoting, go upstairs to take a shower, I''ll make breakfast for you."

 Chapter 113: His Vulnerability

    <h4>Chapter 113</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting did not agree immediately, but closed his eyes, leaned the back of his head against the chair, and tightened his grip on Rong Dai''s hand a few more times.


    He suddenly pulled Rong Dai into his arms and hugged her tightly.


    Rong Dai''s heart was pounding wildly, and before she could speak, she heard his voice, tinged with exhaustion: "Let me hold you for a while, just for a while."


    Hearing the heavy weariness in his voice, Rong Dai''s stiff back rxed, and her racing heart gradually calmed down as well. Her hands also gently stroked his back.


    "Big si..."


    Huo Mei Shu hade in from outside, and was just about to call out to Rong Dai when she saw the two of them embracing each other. She immediately fell silent, staring at the ceiling as she walked past with great exasperation.


    If she kept eating dog food like this, she would go blind!


    Huo Shao Jie had dealt with the Huo Feng family, and his forehead was already beaded with fine sweat.


    This wasn''t because he was afraid of the Huo Feng family, but because he was afraid that big brother would settle ounts with him afterwards.


    Going to Africa to film a documentary, this was clearly meant to have him die in Africa!


    So when he saw his big brother hugging his sister-inw, he very tactfully disappeared automatically. With sister-inw there, big brother could keep his temper under control, and his trip to Africa would be postponed indefinitely.


    What Huo Shao Jie didn''t expect was that after so many years, the hostility in big brother''s heart towards the Huo Second Master''s family still hadn''t diminished.


    It wasn''t that he had forgotten, it was that big brother tormenting himself this way, hatred would make a person lose their calm and reason, and it would also consume the light in their heart.


    There was also the fact that today he had truly been shocked by his sister-inw''s imposing manner!


    Sister-inw had fought the entire Huo Second Master''s family and held her own, he and Huo Mei Shu had beenpletely useless.


    This sister-inw really was a dragon in hiding, astonishing when revealed.


    Everyone in the Huo household was very tactful, and no one went to disturb the two of them.


    Huo Shao Ting held her for a long time before the churning anger and hatred in his heart gradually subsided.


    Rong Dai maintained this posture, though half her body had gone numb.


    "You didn''t rest all night, go upstairs and take a hot bath first, I''ll make you some breakfast, then you can get some good rest, okay?"


    Sensing his rxation, Rong Dai also breathed a slight sigh of relief in her heart, her voice gentle as she spoke.


    He had a poor stomach, such excessive fatigue and irregr diet would sooner orter take a toll on his health.


    "I''ll listen to you." Huo Shao Ting said softly into the crook of her neck. The stubble on his chin scratched her fair neck, leaving it slightly red.


    He took the chance to lightly peck her pink neck before finally letting her go.


    Just now, he had almost lost control.


    He had only just uncovered the truth from twenty-some years ago, but the evidence had long since faded, he had no way to mete out punishment to the Huo Second Master''s family outside of thew.


    But he had plenty of ways to kick them out of the game, just thinking about the family incident from twenty-some years ago made him want to kill someone!


    Rong Dai stood upright, seeing the red veins in his eyes and the stubble on his chin, the fatigue on his face was so obvious, it made her heart inexplicably ache.


    He also carried many secrets she didn''t know about, but she could feel his state of mind.


    This man, when gentle, could be extremely meticulous.


    When ruthless, was enough to make others cower at the mere mention.


    This required a strong inner heart, and hadn''t she also been the same in her past life in the imperial harem for thirty years?


    For a moment, she felt that she and the man before her had an affinity.


    "What do you want to eat? Porridge or noodles?" Her voice was just as gentle.


    She didn''t ask Huo Shao Ting what had happened just now. She knew what he needed now was quiet, a space that brought him peace.


    "Handmade noodles." He looked up at her. At this moment he was like he had shed all his armor, revealing his vulnerable side to Rong Dai.


    He wasn''t a god, he wasn''t invincible at all times.


    He also needed care and warmth.


    All these years he had been fighting alone, behind him was the family he needed to protect for his father, he could not fall.


    For so many years, he had already gotten used to being alone.


    But he had also forgotten that when stripped of everything bestowed upon him, he was just an ordinary man.


    In front of the Huo family, he could no longer show weakness.


    But in front of Rong Dai, she was his wife, he could show her his most fragile side.


    "Go take a bath, I''ll call you when it''s ready."


    Rong Dai understood the look in his eyes. How could she, perceptive as she was, not understand the emotions flowing in his eyes?


    It was just that while his sincerity made her happy, it also put great pressure on her.


    She was not, after all, that Rong Dai.


    Watching him go upstairs, Rong Dai turned and entered the kitchen. In her heart she sighed lightly - things hade to this, she could only take it one step at a time now.


    Her identity was still an extremely dangerous matter. It wasn''t that she didn''t trust Huo Shao Ting, but that she didn''t trust thispletely unfamiliar world.


    Her past life had made her understand all too well that the hearts of those not of one''s own kind differed.


    Although everything in this afterlife was very advanced, such fantastical and supernatural happenings were too inconceivable. She was cautious by habit from her past life.


    Until she feltpletely safe, even if Huo Shao Ting had suspicions, she would not say it aloud.


    If before she herself told him inly, their rtionship could only end and be settled, she was also willing to ept this oue.


    With many tangled thoughts weighing on her mind, Rong Dai turned on the faucet. The gentle water flow pulled her mind back a little.


    She carefully made the noodles for Huo Shao Ting, prepared two small refreshing side dishes, and brought up a warm ss of milk upstairs.


    Entering the bedroom, Huo Shao Ting still hadn''te out of the bathroom. Rong Dai couldn''t help frowning - it wasn''t good to bathe for too long.


    She knocked on the door, but there was no sound from inside. She couldn''t help feeling anxious.


    "Shao Ting, are you done with your bath? Could you say something please?"


    Rong Dai''s face was slightly pale. She couldn''t help knocking on the door and calling out.


    But there was still no sound from the bathroom.


    She bit her lip and turned the bathroom doorknob, walking in. She knew Huo Shao Ting had the habit of not locking the bathroom door when bathing.


    She saw that Huo Shao Ting had actually fallen asleep in the bathtub!


    Rong Dai''s nose turned sour, and her eyes welled up with an ache.


    Counting on her fingers, recently she had caused Huo Shao Ting no small amount of trouble, from the audition, to Zuo Ran, and now Wen Shi Lan.


    Each matter had caused considerable impact. Even if Huo Shao Ting didn''t say it, she knew in her heart that these things did have some effect on the Huo enterprise.


    He had been busy all night, and had to deal with the Huo Second Master''s messy affair aftering home in the morning. How could he not be tired?


    A feeling of guilt crept into her heart. Looking at Huo Shao Ting leaning in the bathtub, her ears grew hot, and her cheeks also felt hot and burning.


    "Shao Ting, wake up, you can''t sleep in the bathtub."


    She squatted by the side of the tub, her gaze focused hard on the man''s face, not looking where she shouldn''t.


    She called Huo Shao Ting several times but he still didn''t respond. Rong Dai grew anxious, reaching out to touch his shoulder to try and shake him awake.


    "Shao Ting, ah--"

 Chapter 114: Mutual Vigilance

    <h4>Chapter 114</h4>


    As her hand just touched his shoulder, Huo Shao Ting suddenly opened his eyes. His manner was fierce as he reached out and grabbed her wrist!


    Rong Dai was so startled by his abrupt movement that she cried out. Her leg injury had notpletely healed, so she tumbled into the bathtub, sshing water everywhere.


    Seeing it was her, the ferocity in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes gradually dissipated. He remembered she was still on her period, so he swiftly sat up and lifted her out of the tub.


    "Did I hurt you?"


    He had grown used to being alone all these years, so anyone''s touch would make him wary. His earlier reaction was purely instinctive - he hadn''t expected it to be Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai looked utterly bedraggled, like a drowned rat.


    She was wearing a dress today. The thin fabric clung tightly to her body when wet, perfectly outlining her alluring figure in a way that made blood surge.


    Huo Shao Ting''s actions startled Rong Dai, and a strange feeling stirred vaguely in her heart.


    Seeing him unclothed, she struggled free from his grasp. Her gaze avoided him as her ears turned red. "I''ll go change. I made breakfast for you, go eat it while it''s hot after you finish washing up."


    With that, she fled from the bathroom in a panic.


    Entering the walk-in closet, her heart was still thumping wildly like a drum, but there was a piercing pain in a corner of it!


    She had seen Huo Shao Ting''s fleetingly ferocious gaze clearly. That wariness was instinctive.


    She had been like this before in her past life too, but Rong Dai hadn''t expected that even for her, Huo Shao Ting would still instinctively be on guard against her.


    Although she knew it was instinctive, it still stung a little that he didn''t fully trust her.


    Trust itself should not be deliberate between them.


    His emotions in that split second were vignce and caution.


    This realization made Rong Dai''s heart stuffy, giving her the false impression that Huo Shao Ting''s kindness towards her recently was reserved.


    This feeling instantly sobered her up.


    It reminded her of everything the Emperor had done to her in her past life - exploiting while concealing, immersing her in a honey pot.


    Only after everything was aplished did he slowly peel off theyers of candy coating he had deliberately clothed her in.


    Looking at the mirror in the walk-in closet, this realization made her feel a little breathless, yet it also eased her pressure.


    Although her heart ached, she was clear about her ce in Huo Shao Ting''s heart now. This made her feel much better.


    If Huo Shao Ting hadplete trust and devotion for her, she would feel undeserving. She was not the original owner, so such feelings were too heavy for her.


    Now, she understood.


    Both of them had reservations - this was good.


    She took several deep breaths and suppressed the pain in her heart.


    "Eat the noodles while they''re hot, or they''ll get mushy and won''t taste good. Eat a little first, then rest well. I''ll go to Teacher Jiang''s ce for my lesson now."


    She revealed a faint smile that looked the same as before despite the turmoil in her mind, then left the bedroom.


    Huo Shao Ting pursed his lips as he watched her leave, sensing something off even though she appeared the same.


    But Rong Dai had already exited the bedroom, so he nced at the steaming breakfast on the table and strode over.


    There were still many issues between him and Rong Dai.


    He had plenty of patience, but some things still needed exining clearly to her.


    He knew his actions in the bathroom earlier had frightened her.


    She was perceptive and sensitive, so would definitely overthink.


    Huo Shao Ting ate his breakfast with slightly knitted brows. Even he hadn''t expected there woulde a day he would care so much about a woman.


    After the meal, he took out his phone and sent Assistant Zhang a few texts.


    Upon receiving the messages, Assistant Zhang couldn''t help but stare at the ceiling.


    The President had changed so much recently that he could even go back on his own decisions.


    Just a few days ago he''d wanted to investigate Murong Yu''s background, but now he was calling off the investigation he''d just approved.


    That was 50 million!


    Not 50 bucks!


    But the rich and powerful President could afford to be capricious, so Assistant Zhang simply treated it as charity.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t care what Assistant Zhang thought. Although curious, after careful consideration thest two days, he''d decided not to look into this anymore.


    He could wait for Rong Dai to give him an exnation.


    His instincts had never led him astray.


    It was precisely his unerring instincts and meticulous mind that allowed Huo Corporation to rise from the ashes under his leadership and be the business empire it was today.


    If she didn''t say, he wouldn''t ask.


    He would only recognize her as his wife.


    Upon receiving Assistant Zhang''s news, Expert Huang thought he must have misheard and called to confirm repeatedly, only to get the same response each time.


    Wasn''t he getting an extra 50 million to fund his research?


    Rong Dai was unaware Huo Shao Ting harbored doubts about her recent behavior and had people investigate Mount Youyuan.


    On her way to Teacher Jiang''s vi, she gazed at the high-rises outside the window, preupied by her jumbled thoughts.


    Teacher Jiang didn''t reprimand her for beingte, since Huo Shao Ting had just called him earlier.


    "Teacher Jiang, are we going on set today too?"


    Once at Teacher Jiang''s house, Rong Dai immediately put aside her worries - this was her habit, not letting one vexing issue affect another matter, to prevent things from getting worse.


    Teacher Jiang nodded. He was very willing to teach this student.


    The two spent another full day at the set. Rong Dai still gained a lot, only returning to the Huo residence at dusk.


    At home, Huo Shao Ting''s figure was busy in the kitchen.


    "Sister-inw."


    Huo Mei Shu sat cross-legged on the new sofa. Seeing Rong Dai return, she fluttered over like a butterfly.


    Seeing the young sister-inw''s state, Rong Dai smiled. "Did something good happen to you today? You look so happy."


    Huo Mei Shu stuck out her tongue. Was she that obvious?


    She pointed to the kitchen. Lowering her voice, she said, "Big brother is rarely home for a whole day today. Also, the embroidery room upstairs for you - all the things bought today have been delivered and personally arranged by big brother."


    Rong Dai was puzzled. What was so happy about that?


    "You don''t know that my big brother would never do such things at home. We have servants, yes, but for little matters like this, big brother would never do it himself. He would only instruct others. Quick, tell me how far you two have progressed?"


    Seeing her confusion, little sister-inw eagerly exined and asked.

 Chapter 115: Kanzuoran

    <h4>Chapter 115</h4>


    Rong Dai felt a little amused and exasperated. She nced at the kitchen. It seemed that the day when she and Huo Shao Ting would have the mother-inw, young auntie, and grandmother that his parents looked forward to would probably nevere.


    "Where did you get so many questions? Why don''t youe and ask me instead?"


    Huo Shao Ting walked out of the kitchen carrying dishes, his deep eyes staring sharply at Huo Mei Shu''s counter-question.


    Huo Mei Shu had to shut up. Rong Dai didn''t want the siblings to quarrel with each other because of her again, so she quickly said, "I want to go upstairs and take a look."


    That day at Jinxiu Store, she had spent a lot of money buying all that embroidery equipment.


    "Sister-inw, I''ll go with you!"


    Huo Mei Shu seized the opportunity and held her arm. The sisters-inw went upstairs to see the embroidery tools.


    Rong Dai examined them very carefully and was very satisfied with the exquisite workmanship of these tools from Jinxiu Store.


    Touching those base fabrics and embroidery threads, Rong Dai felt a little relieved in her heart.


    She took out her phone to check the ount her little sister-inw had helped register for her. Surprisingly, there were several messages she hadn''t had time to reply to.


    She quickly replied to them. Huo Mei Shu leaned over to take a look and saw that someone had really ced orders.


    "Sister-inw, can you handle so much? You have to go to Uncle Jiang''s ce for sses during the day, and you still need to make time to improve your rtionship with my brother. Embroidery is also meticulous work. And you haven''t finished making that quilt yet. If you take more orders now, won''t you be too tired?"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her with concern and asked.


    But Rong Dai just smiled lightly,pletely unconcerned about these things: "Don''t worry, it won''t affect me. Just don''t tell your brother about me taking orders."


    Otherwise, knowing Shao Ting''s attentiveness, he would definitely not let her take orders.


    But she desperately needed these orders, and she desperately needed money.


    A year''s time went by quickly, and she didn''t know how long her marriage with Huo Shao Ting wouldst before it copsed.


    Because both of them had their own secrets and many things they were unwilling to open up to each other.


    More importantly, there was still not enoughplete trust between them. Now their rtionship looked very good in the eyes of outsiders.


    But whether it was good or not, only the people involved knew clearly.


    The amount of two billion was not a small number, especially for her current situation. It was a huge debt.


    The only thing she could rely on was her embroidery skills, which could be linked to the design skills the original owner had learned.


    Moreover, women''s consumption in this era was frightening, especially when it came to clothing.


    She didn''t have any fame or reputation now, but she believed in her skills.


    For now, she could only use a period of time as a buffer, and then make ns for the next step.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded. After the inspection, the sisters-inw went downstairs.


    Rong Dai went back to her room to change into casual home clothes, then went downstairs to the kitchen.


    "Shao Ting, do you need my help with anything?"


    "Just wash your hands and you can eat. After the meal, there''s someone you might want to see."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke while taking off his apron.


    Rong Dai nodded. She washed her hands and came out of the kitchen with her husband. Her uncle-inw and aunt-inw were already seated, looking at the table full of food and almost drooling. After all, Huo Shao Ting was a first-ss cook.


    After the family had dinner, Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu very tactfully went upstairs to do their own things, leaving space for the couple.


    "Who did you say I was going to see just now?"


    Rong Dai asked him after rinsing her mouth.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with a very serious expression: "Zuo Ran. She wants to see you. The trial is the day after tomorrow."


    Hearing this name and thinking of that person, a sh of disgust passed through Rong Dai''s eyes.


    No matter whether there was really something between the original owner and Zuo Ran, she was very sure that she had nothing to do with Zuo Ran.


    Zuo Ran was just crazy. Thinking back to how she had almost lost her life at Zuo Ran''s hands, she really didn''t want to see this person.


    "Forget it if you don''t want to go. Someone will take care of this matter."


    Seeing her hesitation, Huo Shao Ting said.


    "No, I''ll still go see her. I also want to hear what else she has to say to me."


    Rong Dai quickly contemted in her mind. Zuo Ran knew about An Feiya and her daughter''s affairs, and she also wanted to know what else Zuo Ran wanted to say by asking to see her.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. The couple got in the car and came to the police station.


    Zuo Ran''s injuries had been downgraded from critical to stable condition. She had been given good medicine and was recovering quite well now.


    When she saw Rong Dai and her husbande out, Zuo Ran''s gaze was fixed firmly on Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai''s body stiffened slightly. After all, everything Zuo Ran had done to harm her was still fresh in her mind. No matter how strong she was mentally, encountering this kind of madwoman would still affect her to some extent.


    Through the ss window, she saw Zuo Ran sitting in a wheelchair, wearing prisoner''s clothes and heavy handcuffs.


    Without the beautiful makeup, she looked extremely haggard, and the wrinkles on her face could not be concealed.


    The two sides sat down. Zuo Ran grabbed the inte and questioned her very emotionally: "Why!? Why did you betray me!?"


    She was so agitated that she was immediately pressed down on the shoulder by the female police officer beside her. Zuo Ran''s face was pale, and her fingers gripping the inte were white.


    The shrill, piercing sound made Rong Dai''s eardrums hurt. She reflexively held the inte very far away.


    When Zuo Ran was forced to calm down, she held up the inte and asked, "You wanted to see me just to ask this? I''ve already made it very clear to you before."


    "First, I did not betray you, because there was never anything between us. It was all your own delusion."


    No matter if the original owner was involved with her or not, she would never admit it anyway.


    "Second, my mother''s death had to do with you. You got my mother killed, yet you expect me to forgive you? That''s impossible."


    "Third, my mother and I never owed you anything. All these years it was my mother supporting you, you sucked her blood, and you got her killed. Zuo Ran, are you even human?"


    "Fourth, Rong Dai''s orientation is very normal. How many shameful things have you done over the years? Don''t you know in your heart? Besides, who I like is my freedom and has nothing to do with you."


    Rong Dai''s face was calm and her tone was cold.


    She really didn''t want to see Zuo Ran at all, but since she had killed An Feiya, she had to meet this person no matter how much she detested her.


    Huo Shao Ting stood behind her. Sensing her anger and disgust, he regretted a little having here to see this person.


    But An Feiya''s death was not something she could be kept from knowing.


    "You''re lying! You''ve always been so obedient since you were little, so attached to me. You loved me! It''s just because this man has money that you abandoned me!"


    Zuo Ran was still immersed in her own dream, ring at her furiously, her eyes full of resentment.


    Hearing her say this, not just Rong Dai, even Huo Shao Ting felt disgusted.


    However Zuo Ran''s orientation was, no one had the right to say anything about it. After all, personal preferences were personal matters.


    But her preference had be so obsessive that it had morphed into perversion, even driving her to break thew to satisfy herself. So this was no longer an issue of personal preference.

 Chapter 116: The Mountain Between Two People

    <h4>Chapter 116</h4>


    Rong Dai heard what she said, and her charming cheeks showed a cold and sharp look. Her eyes looked at her sternly, coldly and indifferently: "What a beautiful dream you had."


    She put down the phone, got up and stared coldly at Zuo Ran who was shouting frantically behind the ss. Such a person was not worth saving.


    "Shao Ting, I want to go back now."


    She had thought Zuo Ran''s conscience could have some discovery, but obviously she had overestimated the other party.


    She had personally experienced Zuo Ran''s obsession and madness.


    If it wasn''t for An Feiya''s business, she didn''t want to have anything to do with this person at all.


    "Well."


    Seeing that her face looked bad, Huo Shao Ting reached out to try to hold her hand.


    But Rong Dai''s mood had changed a lot in the past two or three days. She subconsciously dodged it and walked out of the visiting room first.


    Huo Shao Ting''s hand missed, and his eyes became obscurely gloomy.


    The husband and wife left the police station one after the other and sat in the car. Rong Dai didn''t want to say anything. There was an inexplicable irritability in her heart, and she desperately wanted to find a ce to be quiet.


    The problem between her and Huo Shao Ting was an unsolvable problem. Seeing Zuo Ran''s obsessive words today brought up the mood that she had finally calmed down.


    Huo Shao Ting sat beside her and saw that she was in a bad mood. He felt very regretful for letting her see Zuo Ran.


    "Dear..."


    "Shao Ting, I want to be quiet for a while."


    Hearing him speak, Rong Dai was both irritable and uneasy in her heart, with various emotions mixed together, almost squeezing her to death!


    In her previous life she was the queen, even though she had faced many difficulties, it had never been so tricky as it was now.


    What was in front of her was a mountain she had ignored.


    This man was very good to her and gave her warmth and care when she was most vulnerable.


    But people are like this. Once they have tasted the benefits, they will want more.


    There was ack of trust between her and Huo Shao Ting. What was blocking them was an insurmountable mountain.


    Although she had promised Huo Shao Ting that she would divorce him after a year, the contradictions in her heart were filled, making her irritable and annoyed.


    She was very clear about what she wanted. She had feelings for Huo Shao Ting, but trust had be a problem between them. She also did not have the courage to tell him about her identity.


    This irritable and oppressive emotion choked her throat tightly, making her almost breathless.


    Hearing her say this, Huo Shao Ting''s thin lips pursed slightly, and he didn''t say anything more.


    The atmosphere in the car between the two was depressed and dull.


    They both knew where the root of the problem was, but they didn''t know how to exin it to each other.


    After the two returned to the Huo house, Rong Dai went upstairs first to take a bath. After changing into her home clothes, she got into bed.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her without saying a word. He was increasingly annoyed that he had let her see Zuo Ran. He was also irritated.


    That night, although the couple slept in the same bed, the atmosphere was extremely dull.


    Rong Dai hardly slept all night. Her mind was chaotic all night, and she knew when Huo Shao Ting got up in the morning.


    After Huo Shao Ting closed the door and went downstairs, she slowly opened her eyes.


    She leaned on the pillow, looking very unwell.


    After lying in bed for almost fifteen minutes, she crawled out of bed to wash up.


    She had already made her work schedule andmunicated with Jiang Lao to adjust the time to go to his ce and learn in the afternoon.


    "Sister-inw, what''s wrong with you? Are you in a bad mood?"


    Although Huo Mei Shu was crude in some matters, she was highly vignt about the progress between her eldest brother and sister-inw.


    "Nothing, it''s just the weather is a bit hot and I''m a little low on energy."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and put down the bowl of rice porridge after drinking it all.


    "I''m going upstairs. I''lle down for lunchter. Please don''t disturb me for now unless it''s urgent."


    Huo Mei Shu watched her go upstairs and nodded nkly. She still felt something was wrong.


    "Don''t you think there is a big problem between eldest brother and sister-inw?" She nudged Huo Shao Jie.


    "Sister-inw has experienced a lot of things recently, with constant news online. If it were you, could you be in a good mood?"


    Huo Shao Jie''s mind was full of things about his new drama right now. Besides, this was between eldest brother and sister-inw. If he meddled in it, he would surely be "exiled" to Africa to shoot documentaries.


    "Che, toozy to talk to you."


    Huo Mei Shu rolled her eyes at him. She still had to ask her elder brother about this.


    But after she sent a message to Huo Shao Ting, he coldly replied to her with four words: Mind your own business.


    "Good intentions counted as donkey''s liver and lungs!" Huo Mei Shu rolled her eyes and went upstairs to take care of her own business.


    After Rong Dai went upstairs, she adjusted her mood and fixed the longevity picture she had drawn long ago. She picked out all the base materials and embroidery threads she needed one by one.


    She was skilled in embroidery in her previous life. Even without the base picture on the base material, she could embroider it with her eyes closed.


    After starting the embroidery work, she muted her phone and set an rm so she wouldn''t bete for going to learn from Jiang Lao.


    Rong Dai quickly forgot all the distracted thoughts in her mind when she concentrated on working. The results in the morning were very good. Her embroidery skills were exquisite.


    It usually took embroidery girls at least about three months toplete such a longevity quilt, but for her, it was a piece of cake.


    After the rm rang, she put down her needles and moved her body. Then she went downstairs for lunch.


    Uncle had left after having breakfast in the morning, so only she and auntie had lunch together.


    Usually during meals, Huo Mei Shu talked the most. But today, seeing that Rong Dai was in a bad mood, she ate quietly.


    "Mei Shu, I''m going out first. I maye backte tonight, so don''t wait for me to have dinner together."


    Rong Dai took her bag and said to her auntie before leaving.


    She looked at the time on her phone and asked the driver to take her to the nearest bus stop.


    She had to learn to take or use the transportation in this world. The shocks of the past few days had already been huge, and also made her see the reality clearly.


    The worst oue was that she would divorce Huo Shao Ting and no longer have the life of a wealthy wife.


    She was now deep in debt. Where to settle down would still be a problem. She couldn''t drive either, let alone think about buying a car and hiring a driver.


    Although she was mentally prepared for the worst, there was still an unwilling voice in her heart urging her on, which left Rong Dai full of contradictions and irritability.


    But in any case, these were things she had to be prepared for.


    She looked at the navigation on her phone. It was very hot in Shenjing in August. She had only stood for a while but was already sweating a lot.


    After getting on the bus, there were all kinds of people, crowded and hard for her to breathe.


    But she had to endure it. Here she was no longer the noble queen. Apart from adapting, she had no other choice for the time being.

 Chapter 117: Court Session

    <h4>Chapter 117</h4>


    When Rong Dai got off the car, her whole body felt sticky. Looking at the distance, she had to walk nearly a kilometer to get to the vi area.


    There were not many cars here because this was a newly developed area, so there were not many residents and it was exceptionally quiet.


    Rong Dai sighed. In her previous life, she was always surrounded by people catering to her every need, and her legs were practically decorative.


    But now, after just one try, she already felt like she was suffocating.


    Biting her lips, luckily she had chosen to wear t shoes. Under the scorching sun, by the time she arrived at Jiang Ling''s vi, she felt like her lungs were smoking.


    "Did you walk here?"


    Seeing her drenched in sweat with flushed red cheeks, Jiang Ling couldn''t help but ask. He also asked the housekeeper to bring her some cold water.


    Rong Dai was breathing heavily. She didn''t realize it was this hot in her previous life. The sun was practically melting her.


    "I only walked a few steps. I didn''t expect the sun to be so scorching."


    She drank a few sips of water and exined in a soft voice.


    Jiang Ling nodded and let her rest for a bit before starting the lesson.


    By dusk after the lesson was over, Rong Dai personally cooked dinner for Jiang Ling. She slowly walked a kilometer enveloped in the evening glow and hot waves before getting on the bus at the nearest stop.


    She had to transfer buses twice midway. Looking at the busy and crowded people, Rong Dai felt like she was being pushed along by the crowds.


    By the time she got back to the Huo residence, it was almost eight o''clock. It had taken a full three hours.


    "Madam, why are you drenched in sweat?"


    Seeing her look exhausted and sweaty, Mrs. Wang couldn''t help but ask.


    Rong Dai raised her hand to touch her forehead. Her cheeks were flushed red from the heat and she was slightly panting as she exined, "I only walked a few steps. I didn''t expect it to be so hot today."


    She changed her shoes and put her bag on the sofa, "Mrs. Wang, is there anything to eat at home?"


    "Madam hasn''t eaten yet? Let me go heat up some food for you."


    "No need, I''ll do it myself. You go on with what you were doing."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head. Other than after divorcing Huo Shaoting, what the Huo family could provide for her now, she still had to rely on herself and get used to things as soon as possible.


    With that said, she went into the kitchen. Thanks to the appliances, she boiled some porridge for herself and stir-fried some vegetables. She didn''t like oily food for dinner.


    After a simple dinner, she went upstairs to wash up and then sat at the desk toplete the homework assigned by Teacher Jiang.


    Looking at the time, it was already ten o''clock, but Huo Shaoting still hadn''t returned. She sighed softly, feeling somewhat disappointed and sour in her heart.


    Over the past two days, Huo Shaoting hadn''te back either.


    As usual, Rong Dai got up to wash up. Today was the court date for Zuo Ran and Wen Shi Lan. As the intiff, she naturally had to go. Huo Shaoting had already told her about this beforehand.


    After getting dressed anding out, she saw Huo Shaoting push the door and enter the bedroom.


    Their eyes met. With no news or sign of him returning these past two days, Rong Dai still felt a little ufortable inside.


    Seeing that he looked a little tired, it was probably because of work again.


    "You''re back. Is there anything you want to eat this morning?"


    She asked softly. Seeing his indifferent expression, her heart ached as if being pricked by needles.


    As Huo Shaoting walked towards the bathroom to undo his suit buttons, he said, "I''ve had breakfast. Give me twenty minutes. I''ll go to court with youter."


    Rong Dai watched his retreating figure. The soreness in her heart grew stronger. Was he getting impatient with her?


    With the mess caused by Zuo Ran and Wen Shi Lan this time because of her, it must have been extremely troublesome for him.


    Before she could respond, Huo Shaoting had closed the bathroom door.


    Rong Dai felt her heart m shut with the door. Her face turned slightly pale as the stabbing soreness enveloped her heart like needles.


    Hearing the sound of water from the bathroom, she took a deep breath silently without saying another word.


    Perhaps this was for the best. She and him were never meant to intersect in the first ce.


    Wasn''t this what she had wanted from the very beginning?


    When she went downstairs, she saw little brother and sister-inw were also there, dressed formally.


    "Mei Shu, do you have something going on today too?"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately came up and held her hand sincerely, "Sister-inw, don''t worry. Those two will surely get the punishment they deserve today."


    Only then did Rong Dai react that they were apanying her to court today.


    "Thank you."


    She gave a faint smile, very appreciative that the Huo family was embracing her like this.


    After breakfast, Huo Shaoting had freshened up and changed into a clean suit beforeing downstairs.


    Seeing hime down reignited the hidden soreness in Rong Dai''s heart that ceaselessly corroded her.


    Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu took one car while she naturally had to ride with Huo Shaoting.


    Sensing his refreshing scent as he sat beside her, Rong Dai unconsciously slowed her breathing.


    They had ridden in this same car in the same seats just days ago, but the atmosphere was vastly different now.


    Despite being so close, it was as if there was an invisible wall between them.


    Her fingers unconsciously tightened as she pursed her lips and looked out the window. The two rode in silence the whole way.


    Perhaps the trouble she had caused Huo Shaoting this time was too great. Their rtionship was superficial to begin with and he was already suspicious of her.


    For someone of Huo Shaoting''s status and power, they knew when to cut their losses, even if it was marriage.


    Perhaps after this, her rtionship with Huo Shaoting would truly end, unable to evenst a year.


    Things that came too easily were also lost the fastest.


    Rong Dai''s mind was tangled withplex emotions as they rode to the court in silence.


    Since they were the intiffs, Rong Dai''s group sat in the galleries.


    The judge andwyers gradually entered. The courtroom was solemn and tranquil. Zuo Ran was tried first.


    Although Rong Dai had seen Zuo Ran just two days ago, this time upon seeing her again, she noticed Zuo Ran''s aura hadpletely weakened. She didn''t even have that extremely resentful gaze towards Rong Dai anymore, only thick regret.

 Chapter 118: Will You Hate Me

    <h4>Chapter 118</h4>


    This left Rong Dai very confused, but as the trial was about to begin, even if she wanted to ask about it, that would be impossible.


    Zuo Ran, handcuffed and in prison garb, waspletely silent. Faced with the evidence presented against her, she admitted to everything.


    For the matter of murdering An Fei Ya, Lu Hong had been extremely busy these past days, but had finally obtained the evidence. Combined with Zuo Ran''s inability to withstand the pressure during interrogation, she had confessed some things intermittently.


    The evidence of Zuo Ran''s previous persecution of those girls, along with Zuo Ran''s habit of video recording, had all been verypletely preserved.


    With cumtive sentencing, Zuo Ran was sentenced to death in the first trial.


    Rong Dai was not surprised by this result.


    A life for a life, this was a matter of natural justice.


    After the court was adjourned, Zuo Ran still wanted to see Rong Dai again, but Rong Dai refused. There was nothing more for them to talk about in the first ce.


    She was not the original owner of this body, and with how Zuo Ran had schemed against her, she naturally had no mood to see her, nor was there any need.


    After Zuo Ran''s case, there was a one hour interval before Wen Shi Lan''s case began trial.


    As the victim, Rong Dai also had to attend.


    When the Wen family saw her appear, their gaze was like poisoned daggers piercing towards her.


    Especially old Mrs Wen''s eyes, as if wanting to devour her!


    Apart from the Wen family members attending, Huo Linjing had alsoe, carefully apanying Wen Runlin, afraid to displease her in the slightest.


    "Is Huo Linjing really so afraid that she won''t be able to marry off? This is just too outrageous. That Wen Runlin is a coward, she''s really wasted her pair of eyes!"


    When Huo Mei Shu saw that Huo Linjing had actually appeared, her eyes nearly burst into mes!


    Rong Dai lightly patted the back of her hand. "Don''t get angry over irrelevant people."


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression was ugly, but Huo Linjing''s expression was simrly unpleasant, her sharp gaze fixed on Rong Dai as if able to cut flesh!


    Rong Dai sat cidly in her chair, exuding a tranquil aura. In her previous life she had seen plenty of such gazes, the likes of Huo Linjing and the Wen family were nothing to her.


    Wen Shi Lan was brought in, also in prison garb and handcuffed. She no longer had the vigorous spirit she once possessed.


    When she saw Rong Dai present, her eyes instantly reddened, her emotions bing extremely agitated. "Rong Dai! You cheap slut!"


    "Silence!"


    She had just shouted when the judge sternly admonished her.


    Wen Shi Lan was held back by a policewoman, her gaze exceptionally hateful as she stared at Rong Dai. Rong Dai fearlessly returned her gaze.


    She did not fear Wen Shi Lan.


    "If Wen Shi Lan''s sentence ends up being very light, will you resent me?"


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly spoke, in a volume only the two of them could hear, asking her this.


    Rong Dai was slightly startled. Her fingers unconsciously tightened.


    She deeply nced at Wen Shi Lan in the courtroom. Her heart painfully stabbed, that kind of sharp piercing pain even with every breath.


    This time it was because of Zuo Ran that she had suffered such a plight, nearly losing her life. Wen Shi Lan was indispensable in this.


    What did he mean by saying these words now?


    Rong Dai did not understand, but she knew that when hearing this sentence, her heart ached, she felt disappointment.


    In the end, the Wen and Huo families did have connections. Old Mrs Wen had not spoken falsely.


    She was just a penniless nobody, a mud phoenix who had flown up a branch. She could not bring Huo Shao Ting any benefits in his career.


    On the contrary, the storms she had stirred up in the city these days had brought negative impact to the Huo corporation.


    In her mind she rapidly shed through the various things between them in the past.


    His thoughtfulness, his gentleness, his care.


    These were fleeting in the end.


    Fortunately with her experience from her previous life, this was something she could endure.


    "It doesn''t matter, as long as you are satisfied."


    This was something the original owner owed Huo Shao Ting, she would treat it as repaying her debts this time.


    Her voice was very calm and cold. Her expression was tranquil to the point of being cold.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze looked at her side profile, wanting to reach out and grasp her hand when he saw her white knuckled grip, but he keenly felt the aloofness and coldness emanating from Rong Dai''s body.


    He could exin this matter.


    The verdict in Wen Shi Lan''s trial had been quite dramatic. Although there was solid evidence, the defensewyer had provided a psychiatric evaluation report from a professional.


    Wen Shi Lan suffered from mental illness.


    Therefore the verdict was not announced in court, but Wen Shi Lan no longer had to stay imprisoned, she could return to the Wen family.


    "The Wen family''s methods are truly despicable! If Wen Shi Lan really has a mental illness, then every single member of the Wen family must be insane!"


    After leaving the courtroom, Huo Mei Shu was so angry she nearly exploded on the spot!


    But Rong Dai''s expression was breezy and light, even emanating a cold air.


    "Rong Dai, I told you from the start, if you had justpromised, things would not have developed to today''s circumstances. Do you really think that with your status, Huo Shao Ting would fight with the Wen family for you?"


    After leaving the courtroom, old Mrs Wen spoke to her with a measure of gloating satisfaction, enunciating each word to vent her anger!


    Rong Dai maintained her faint smile. "Old Mrs Wen, have you heard this saying before? The longer one persists in evil, the surer the retribution. It is only a matter of time, not that retribution will note. Heaven is watching all human deeds. It is true I do not have the same status and wealth as your Wen family, but a youngdy notorious for her crimes and implicated in murder - how could she be better than me? "


    "It is true I am just an ordinary person risen from the mud, nothing without the Huo family''s backing. "


    "But I, an ordinary person, was able to cause your distinguished and noble young miss of the Wen family to fall into the mire, and bear thebel of mental illness. Old Mrs Wen, do you feel you have achieved total victory?"


    "To kill a thousand enemies at the cost of losing eight hundred of one''s own, at worst I would just divorce Huo Shao Ting and return to being an ordinary person. As time passes, who will still remember who I, Rong Dai, am? But it is different for Miss Wen. She will be nailed to the pir of shame at every moment."


    "Looking at it this way, Old Mrs Wen, even if I divorce Huo Shao Ting and Wen Shi Lan marries him, so what? What does that have to do with me? Miss Wen''s deeds will be constantly criticized by people, especially in these circles."


    She was in a bad mood, yet this olddy insisted oning to stir up trouble.


    She did not understand why things had be like this, but it was obvious some agreement had been reached between the Wen family and Huo Shao Ting.


    And this agreement had alreadypletely exceeded her standing in Huo Shao Ting''s heart.


    "You! You..."


    Old Mrs Wen was so angry her face was purple. She pointed at Rong Dai and could not get out aplete sentence after yelling "You" repeatedly.


    Rong Dai left a cold and arrogant back view for the Wen family''s people, also not looking at Huo Shao Ting. No matter what transaction he had made with the Wen family.


    What she owed had already been repaid halfway, the remaining half was the huge debt of two hundred million.


    She had naively believed before that Huo Shao Ting was a man worthy of her trust, but now it seemed crows everywhere were equally ck.


    Rong Dai, oh Rong Dai, you are trulyughable. Weren''t the bitter lessons from your thirty years in your previous life enough to make you wake up and understand clearly?

 Chapter 119: The Legacy of Anfei Ya

    <h4>Chapter 119</h4>


    Rong Dai felt a sharp pain in her heart. The piercing pain made every breath hurt.


    "Sister-inw, wait a moment."


    Just as Rong Dai was about to get into the car, Lu Hong came over holding a file bag.


    Rong Dai looked over: "Officer Lu, is there anything else?"


    Lu Hong wiped the fine sweat from his forehead and nced at Huo Shao Ting sitting in the car before shifting his gaze back to Rong Dai. He seemed to want to say something but hesitated.


    "It''s like this. During our interrogation of Zuo Ran and the appraisal of An Feiya''s personal assets, there are still some documents and inheritance here that need you to handle personally."


    Lu Hong handed her the file bag and briefly exined.


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai took the file bag, a faint smile on her face, and gently nodded before getting into the car.


    She was in no hurry to look through the file bag''s contents, with Huo Shao Ting sitting beside her.


    From the moment she left the courtroom, all those lingering questions and that invisible wall in her heart finally seemed to clear up.


    From the beginning, Huo Shao Ting did not belong to her, so why should she fret over it?


    "Where do you want to eat tonight? I''ll have my assistant book a restaurant."


    She did not speak, but Huo Shao Ting was the first to open his mouth.


    Rong Dai nced at him slightly. This man was nearly perfect.


    But the more perfect he was, the harder he was to obtain.


    "No need. I took time off from Uncle Jiang today, but I still have embroidery to do, so I can''t apany you."


    Although her heart still ached, when Rong Dai said this, she was not actually angry or melodramatic.


    She just wanted to achieve financial independence as soon as possible, so she wouldn''t have to tiptoe around guessing Huo Shao Ting''s thoughts.


    One who eats another''s food and uses another''s resources is subservient to them.


    She owed Huo Shao Ting a lot. She would treat this time as a fleeting fantasy.


    Huo Shao Ting heard her words, a flickering look in his deep eyes.


    In a corner Rong Dai couldn''t see, the corners of his mouth curved up slightly, revealing an imperceptible smug smile.


    She cared about him, otherwise she wouldn''t be angry.


    "Alright then." He replied lightly, then leaned back in the rear seat, eyes closed, breathing shallowly.


    Rong Dai''s eyes dimmed slightly. Although she knew her thoughts were wishful thinking and had given up struggling, her heart still ached.


    She didn''t say anything more either, her gaze falling on the retreating scenery outside the car window, her eyes growing increasingly profound.


    The sprouting seed of love in her heart was uprooted and buriedpletely.


    Returning to the Huo residence, Rong Dai remained very calm. After getting out of the car, she headed straight to her embroidery room on the third floor.


    "Big brother, what''s going on between you and sister-inw?"


    Smelling something amiss, Huo Mei Shu immediately became nervous.


    "Also, without big brother''s consent, the Wen family couldn''t have submitted that appraisal report. Since when did Wen Shi Lan have a history of mental illness?"


    Huo Mei Shu stared intently at the cold-faced Huo Shao Ting, questioning him. Although the verdict for Wen Shi Lan was not announced in court, that woman had already returned to the Wen family.


    So she could guess the result of the matter.


    If she were the sister-inw, she would certainly be angry too.


    If not for Wen Shi Lan''s move, there wouldn''t have been Zuo Ran''s stunt.


    "Big brother! Don''t forget, if not for Wen Shi Lan, sister-inw would not have almost died!"


    Seeing him purse his lips silently, Huo Mei Shu became anxious and a little angry.


    She had worked so hard to matchmake them. Was it easy for her?


    "Mind your own business." Huo Shao Ting said coldly, then had the driver turn around and head to thepany.


    "Big brother!"


    Huo Mei Shu was exasperated. Her face flushed red as she watched the car disappear into the distance, stomping her feet in frustration where she stood.


    In the embroidery room, Rong Dai had actually seen everything clearly and could hear the little sister''s words.


    She was extremely conflicted, with a dead heart on one hand, yet still a voice hoping for an exnation from him on the other.


    But there was nothing. He just left like that.


    She took a deep breath, and the chilling cold air pierced her throat, pulling her mind back. Her gaze shifted to the file bag in her hand.


    She took out the documents from the file bag, and a golden key also fell out.


    The documents carefully listed all of An Feiya''s assets. She was surprised to find that the original owner''s mother had a very shrewd business mind.


    Being a designer was just her side job, it seemed. Looking at these documents and figures, Rong Dai was shocked.


    Just these financial investments and assets alone amounted to over a billion.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but be curious about An Feiya and amazed by her. How could a woman of such ability end up with a wretch like Zuo Ran? Even controlled by her?


    In the end, she actually lost her own life?


    Rong Dai couldn''t figure it out. She could only continue reading. She then saw the documents regarding the key.


    It was for Huaxia Bank headquarters.


    With An Feiya gone now, and Zuo Ran shackled and imprisoned awaiting the death penalty, these assets all needed to be taken over and managed by her.


    She nced at the things in the embroidery room, her mood plummeting to the bottom. She pulled out her phone to look up rted information, then brought her ID and went downstairs.


    "Sister-inw, do you have somewhere to go?"


    Huo Mei Shu had been very uneasy. These two were so mercurial.


    Seeing Rong Daie down, she immediately stood up, looking at her anxiously and asking.


    "Mm, I have some things to deal with."


    Rong Dai gave a faint smile. She wouldn''t take out her negative emotions on innocent people.


    "Then...I''ll go with you! I don''t really have anything to do right now anyway!" Huo Mei Shu immediately replied.


    "That would be troublesome for you then." Rong Dai didn''t refuse either, though she didn''t know the little sister well, she still liked her a lot.


    "No trouble at all, we''re family, why be so polite!"


    Huo Mei Shu secretly heaved a huge sigh of relief and hurried to get her car keys.


    "Sister-inw, where are you going?"


    "Huaxia Bank headquarters, this address." Rong Dai showed her the address from the documents.


    "Did Aunt An leave you assets? Insurance fees at headquarters are usually not cheap every year."


    Seeing the address, Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but be curious.


    "Perhaps." Rong Dai''s reply was light. She was very curious what kind of woman An Feiya really was?


    In that dream, although the original owner had told her many things, she didn''t say much about An Feiya, her mother. It was clear their mother-daughter rtionship was not deep.


    However, Rong Dai understood why An Feiya would be so distant from her own daughter. With a lunatic like Zuo Ran by her side, she could threaten An Feiya with the original owner at any time.

 Chapter 120: Her Letters

    <h4>Chapter 120</h4>


    Rong Dai was puzzled that a woman like An Feiya who was outstanding even as a sideline, with assets worth over billions, would be threatened by someone like Zuo Ran.


    The sisters-inw soon arrived at the Hua Xia Bank Head Office. With the help of the little sister-inw and the high status An Feiya seemed to hold here, the two didn''t have to wait long.


    "Ms. Rong, all the procedures have been handled, but only you can enter with the key."


    The staff came in and exined with a professional smile.


    "It''s fine, sister-inw you go ahead, I''ll wait for you here."


    Huo Mei Shu was well aware of these rules, and of course would not mind them either. She hade with her sister-inw just to probe subtly what problems had arisen between her and her big brother.


    Rong Dai nodded, took the key and followed the staff out of the reception room.


    Only then did Huo Mei Shu''s gaze fall on the documents in the folder. She couldn''t help but be curious and picked it up to take a closer look. Seeing the asset valuation, she couldn''t help but stare wide-eyed.


    After hesitating, she took out her phone, took a few photos and sent them to Huo Shao Ting, along with a string of text.


    Huo Shao Ting, who had just arrived at thepany to handle two contracts, heard his phone ring, looked at it, and called Lu Hong after seeing the photo on it.


    Rong Dai followed the staff member into the bank vault. The staff took her to the safe deposit box corresponding to this key and then stood to one side.


    Rong Dai inserted the key to open the safe deposit box. It was veryrge, easily able to amodate a small child.


    The safe deposit box was packed full.


    Inside were seven or eight redwood boxes, all exquisitely made, containing jewellery of extremely fine workmanship.


    In her previous life, Rong Dai had seen countless jewels, and her eyes were naturally sharp. At a nce, she could see the collectible value of these jewels.


    The jewellery included rubies, sapphires, pink diamonds, and a whole set of old mine imperial green jewellery with excellent rity.


    Rong Dai had seen big money before, so she wasn''t shocked by this much, but she was surprised.


    She became more and more curious about what kind of person An Feiya really was.


    Apart from these valuable jewels, there were some insurance policies left, some investment-linked policies taken out for her. Rong Dai checked them one by one and found that An Feiya had also purchased several investment grade properties for her.


    Then there was a box locked with a small gold lock, with a letter ced on it.


    She picked it up and looked at the things in the safe deposit box, unsure for the moment how to deal with them.


    "Do I have to take all these things away now?"


    The staff nced at the tablet in their hand and replied gently, "Ms. Rong, we havepleted all the handover procedures for you. Ms. An has paid the insurance premiums for the next ten years."


    Rong Dai breathed a sigh of relief, then closed the safe deposit box, "Then let it stay here for now."


    Ten years would give her enough time to deal with these matters properly. She could handle these thingster without rushing.


    "Of course, Ms. Rong."


    The staff member nodded, then checked the safe deposit box before leading her out of the vault.


    "Sister-inw, how did it go?" Huo Mei Shu asked as Rong Dai emerged after such a short time.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head, "My mother left me some things and asked me to take a look. It''s been dealt with, let''s go back first."


    The sisters-inw then got into the car to leave. As Rong Dai looked at the bustling streets outside, she was filled with mixed emotions and casually asked, "Mei Shu, shall we go somewhere for a drink?"


    Back at the Huo residence, she wouldn''t be able to resist thinking of Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Mei Shu agreed without hesitation, directly choosing a quiet cafe with a nice environment.


    Rong Dai liked new things, she hadn''t drunk this coffee before, so she tried a Frappino.


    Huo Mei Shu ordered her own drink and some pastries, then considerately took out her phone pretending she had messages to reply: "Sister-inw, go ahead with what you need to do, I''ll reply some friends."


    Rong Dai nodded, tore open the letter, and a small gold key fell out - the key to the box in the safe deposit box, presumably.


    An Feiya had left a letter about seven to eight pages thick.


    The letter wasn''t very long, but An Feiya seemed to have anticipated that something might happen to her, so she left this letter as soon as possible.


    Rong Dai read the eight pages carefully.


    It described An Feiya''s feelings and entanglement with Zuo Ran at length, as well as her deep maternal love.


    Although Rong Dai wasn''t the original owner, after reading the letter, she finally understood why a woman like An Feiya would have gotten involved with Zuo Ran.


    An Feiya had grown up overseas since she was little. Oddly, she fell in love with her foster father''s eldest son, and there were mutual feelings between them.


    However, An Feiya''s foster father was an aristocrat overseas, of noble status. Although An Feiya was his foster daughter and they had no blood rtion, such feelings could not be recognized.


    Inevitably, one of them had to give up this rtionship that was doomed from the start, and An Feiya had to be the one to let go.


    An Feiya returned to China alone with the substantial assets given to her by her foster father, and settled down in Huaxia.


    The two were separated by oceans, but not long after An Feiya arrived in Huaxia, she discovered she was pregnant - undoubtedly the daughter of her foster father''s eldest son.


    At that time, An Feiya was still a girl in her early twenties. Adding to the emotional hurt, she encountered Zuo Ran, who was working as a cleaner at the hospital during childbirth.


    Zuo Ran was around the same age as An Feiya, having just emerged from the miry pit at that time.


    An Feiya was at her most helpless then, and withplications arising during childbirth, Zuo Ran was the only one by her side.


    Zuo Ran apanied her through the darkest time in An Feiya''s life. As for when Zuo Ran started having that inclination, the letter didn''t say.


    Over the years, An Feiya used her keen intellect and the substantial assets from her foster father to invest and secretly umte considerable wealth.


    Although she was grateful for Zuo Ran''spany, she also realized how dangerous Zuo Ran was during their time together, so she had long made arrangements for her daughter in secret.


    She had umted considerable wealth for her daughter, enough for her to live infort for life.


    It was just a pity that Zuo Ran cut all this off. After finding out about it, Zuo Ran went mad.


    This led to the plot of that car ident. It was originally meant to teach An Feiya a lesson, but ended up with An Feiya dead.


    Rong Dai couldn''t understand An Feiya''s feelings, but she could understand the struggle and contradiction, just like her previous life facing the Emperor.


    But An Feiya truly loved her daughter very much, and had arranged everything for her sake.


    What she didn''t expect was that her own daughter would die during a minor surgery.

 Chapter 121: Disposal of Assets

    <h4>Chapter 121</h4>


    After Rong Dai read the letter, she felt mixed emotions. This also reminded her of her parents and elder sister in her previous life, who had also tried their best to n for their daughter like An Feiya.


    The letter also mentioned another thing - An Feiya approached Huo Old Madam with a n. This made Rong Dai feel very regretful.


    This point made Rong Dai understand what kind of feelings the original owner had towards An Feiya after reading this letter.


    The original owner probably resented this mother, so even though she knew Huo Shao Ting could help her get rid of the madman Zuo Ran, she did not speak up andpromised instead.


    It was partly due to resentment and partly stubbornness.


    If An Feiya was still alive and knew that her daughter had wasted her painstaking efforts like this, would she regret her past tolerance towards Zuo Ran?


    No wonder the original owner was willing to marry Huo Shao Ting but was so cold to him after the marriage.


    She believed in what the original owner had told her in her dream, but also believed that she had concealed a lot from her.


    Perhaps she was living more freely on the other side.


    "Mei Zhu, I want to go somewhere,"


    Rong Dai sighed lightly, put away the letter, and looked at her young aunt who was looking down at her phone.


    Huo Mei Shu immediately put away her phone and smiled at her brightly, "Where does sister-inw want to go?"


    "To see my mother,"


    Rong Dai said softly. The two sisters-inw then left the cafe. Rong Dai went to a flower shop to buy a bouquet specially, and Huo Mei Shu also bought one.


    When they arrived at the cemetery, whether it was psychological or because it was a cemetery, the sun was not as scorching hot.


    Rong Dai found An Feiya''s tombstone. The photo on it showed that An Feiya was an extremely beautiful and charmingdy.


    She took out the letter and pulled out a lighter from her bag that she had bought at the liquor store when buying flowers.


    She burned the letter and watched it turn to ashes blown away by the wind. Her heart was at peace.


    The original owner did not understand An Feiya''s painstaking efforts and love when she was alive. Rong Dai hoped this letter could appear in the original owner''s dream and allow mother and daughter to reconcile in another way.


    Perhaps it was due to her previous life, but her heart had softened a lot in this life.


    When they left the cemetery, Rong Dai had not spoken the whole time, and Huo Mei Shu also dared not speak, carefully driving back to the Huo residence.


    After returning to the Huo residence, Rong Dai went upstairs to rest. She took out the documents and found the phone number of thewyer An Feiya had entrusted to manage her assets. She called him.


    She did not understand these financial matters, and the court session today had shocked her greatly.


    She also needed to consult a professionalwyer to deal with these assets.


    "Hello, is this Lawyer Ji Zheng? I am An Feiya''s daughter. My name is Rong Dai. I have some matters I want to meet you to discuss. Do you have time?"


    Hearing the call connected, Rong Dai asked gently.


    The man''s slightly cold voice came from the other end of the phone. He gave her an address and then hung up.


    Rong Dai was a little confused. Was thiswyer so pretentious?


    She was the client now!


    But in any case, she still needed to meet him.


    After tidying up a little, she went out with the documents and ID, taking a taxi to the destination after getting the driver to drop her off at a bus stop.


    It was a tea bar, very quiet, with a nice indoor environment and ssical music ying.


    "Here."


    As soon as she appeared, she saw Ji Zheng raise his hand slightly, then take off the sunsses perched on his nose bridge.


    On her way here, Rong Dai had wondered what kind of person Ji Zheng was, but did not expect him to look only twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old. However, his temperament was extraordinary.


    This aura made Rong Dai feel that he was of the same kind as Huo Shao Ting, just that the two were in different professions. Otherwise, if these two were opponents, it would definitely be terrifying.


    "Are you Mr. Ji Zheng?"


    To be safe, Rong Dai still cautiously asked.


    Ji Zheng''s eyebrows furrowed slightly, and his narrow eyes smiled, "What else could it be? Do you think there is a second person here greeting you? Mrs. Huo?"


    Hearing his unfriendly tone, Rong Dai couldn''t help frowning too. She sat down in the chair opposite him, looking straight into his eyes and asked, "Mr. Ji seems to be prejudiced against me. May I ask if I have made you ufortable in some way?"


    She had never even met this person before, and the original owner did not mention him in her dream either.


    "Humph!"


    Ji Zheng let out a coldugh, then flung the sunsses in his hand onto the wooden table in front of him. Folding his arms, he stared at her fiercely.


    "Mrs. Huo, I really wanted to see you! From the time Ms. An passed away until now, how many calls have I made to you? Even if you don''t want these assets, you should at least return a call, right? Too rich to bother?"


    Hearing Ji Zheng''s words, Rong Dai was a little surprised. The original owner''s old phone was broken, and this was a newly purchased phone with a new number.


    She really did not notice this matter.


    "I''m really sorry. My mother never told me anything about these assets before, so I thought those were all scam calls."


    Rong Dai''s smile was apologetic. Although these were the original owner''s mistakes, she was Rong Dai now, so she naturally had to take responsibility for these matters.


    As she spoke, she ced the documents on the table.


    Ji Zheng had originally prepared a lot of scolding words, but upon hearing her words, he was immediately rendered speechless.


    "If you''ve seen the news, you''ll probably know why my mother didn''t tell me about these."


    Rong Dai exined, then withdrew her gaze to the documents and continued, "I came to see Mr. Ji today to ask for your help."


    How could Ji Zheng not know about the news? It had exploded online!


    "Speak."


    "I''d like Mr. Ji to handle these assets well. I don''t understand them, so I want to stop investing in them."


    Rong Dai''s voice was gentle when she spoke, and she looked very serious.


    Ji Zheng was stunned for a moment. As An Feiya''s personalwyer, he was of course clear about these assets, but the specific investments were all decided by An Feiya. He was only responsible for liaising with the legal department of third-party tforms.


    He had never met a woman like An Feiya before. All her investments were extremely shrewd, almost always profitable, and she was never greedy.


    He also knew she had a daughter, but had never met her before, so this was the first time.


    Although he knew Rong Dai''s approach was the most prudent - these assets could be realized to over 100 million at least.


    If managed poorly, it was very likely to lose everything overnight, which was why he had been urging Rong Dai''s call.


    However, he did not expect to be repeatedly shut out, and for such an unreliable reason too.


    "Okay, these documents are just a rough overview. After I go back and tally everything up, we''ll handle it then. Realizing these assets will take time."


    Ji Zheng nodded. He did not dare let Rong Dai take risks continuing the investments either, after all, she was not An Feiya.


    Rong Dai nodded, "Then I''ll have to trouble Mr. Ji. If you need me to be present anywhere, please feel free to contact me anytime."

 Chapter 122: I鈥檓 So Short of Money

    <h4>Chapter 122</h4>


    Ji Zheng looked at her. This was the first time he saw Rong Dai in person, although there were many photos of her online. But seeing her in real life was much more stunning than in the photos.


    "This is my job. I hope Ms. Rong will not reject my calls thinking they are scam calls," he said half-jokingly.


    "You should know Ms. An has quite a fortune in my custody. I''m just an ordinary man. If I can''t get in touch with you again, I''ll have to handle it in another way."


    This was the first time he met Rong Dai, but he felt she had a special charm that made people want to explore her, definitely not any profane ideas.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded slightly, "Don''t worry Mr. Ji, this won''t happen again."


    She paused briefly, then asked, "I''m not very clear how much my mother left behind. Mr. Ji, you must know better. Can you give me a rough number?"


    She was Rong Dai now. The valuables in the safe were the dowry An Feiya left for the original owner.


    Although they belonged to her now, she was reluctant to use them unless absolutely necessary.


    Besides, those jewelleries were very valuable.


    She had seen countless jewelleries in her previous life and had a discerning eye. A woman''s love for jewellery was almost instinctive.


    Even when she was the Empress, she was no exception.


    If the total value was huge, she would be able to repay the 200 million debt she owed Huo Shao Ting.


    With her skills, she believed there would be connoisseurs.


    Moreover, An Feiya had purchased several properties for her to provide her with ces to live. She now had a ce to settle down. The remaining thing was to earn money to support herself and live the unrestrained life she wanted.


    The rtionship between her and Huo Shao Ting could only be described as deep feelings but shallow fate.


    She could not tell him about her identity. She was too clear about the disasters her memories of her previous life would bring if exposed.


    If heaven wanted to punish her in this life, to leave her alone, she would bear it all.


    It was just karmic retribution.


    Ji Zheng frowned slightly, looking puzzled as he asked her, "Judging from what you said, you are very short of money?"


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. She saw no need to evade the question and nodded.


    She believed in Ji Zheng''s professional ethics. After all, he was personally chosen by An Feiya.


    In other words, even if she did not trust him, what could she do?


    She never considered talking about money vulgar. There was a saying, even real siblings calcted debts clearly.


    Not talking about money was really vulgar.


    "Yes, I haven''tpleted my studies yet. Also... Madam Huo is not an easy person to get along with. Mr. Huo and I have a huge gap between us, as someone with your knowledge and experience can see."


    "But these are all my private matters. Mr. Ji doesn''t need to worry about them," she said lightly. Her quiet way of speaking was like a murmuring mountain stream, unintentionally revealing her graceful temperament.


    Ji Zheng nodded with a smile, "Just asking out of curiosity. Ms. An and I were quite close. I''ll handle this for you. I''ve earned quite a lot working for Ms. An."


    "From what I know, Ms. An made many investments, basic leveraged futures and more. Estimated to be around 3 billion in value."


    "That''s why I was so anxious to contact you after Ms. An''s sudden passing. Because in Ms. An''s will, you are the heir to these assets."


    "For an ordinary person like me, 3 billion is not a small sum. If you didn''t call me back today, I might have handled it another way."


    Ji Zheng''s anger had already dissipated. He found this woman very interesting.


    An ordinary person would surely be shocked to learn about such a huge inheritance.


    But Rong Dai''s reaction was very calm. She was only slightly surprised when he mentioned the number, then calmed down again.


    How could he know that Rong Dai was an ancient soul who had seen tremendous wealth in her previous life? How could she be frightened by this little number?


    Besides, she owed Huo Shao Ting 2 billion already.


    "I absolutely trust your professionalism. If possible, I hope to settle this as soon as possible. I reallyck money," said Rong Dai gently. Her face was calm with no trace of the negative emotions from the court session earlier.


    Ji Zheng nodded and saw her off. Leaning back in his chair after she left, he took out his phone and searched for news rted to her.


    One of the search results was about the auction of engraved jade. He couldn''t help smiling, and didn''t dig further into Rong Dai''s private matters.


    When Rong Dai returned to the Huo residence, it was already nightfall.


    Huo Shao Ting had returned from work when she arrived home.


    Their eyes met. Her state of mind had changed tremendously. Now looking at Huo Shao Ting, she no longer felt the nervousness of a deer in headlights like before.


    The things that happened over the past few days, although upsetting, made her clearly realize the fundamental problem between her and Huo Shao Ting.


    She could now face it calmly, withdraw in time, recognize the reality, which was her respect for this rtionship.


    She understood her heart too well.


    There could be no future for her and Huo Shao Ting continuing like this. Also, the Wen Shi Lan incident this time...


    Although it was understandable for Huo Shao Ting to acquiesce to the other party''s handling from the Huo family''s perspective, she was still disappointed and very upset.


    Even if he had discussed it with her, she would not have felt this way.


    She was not an unreasonable woman. On the contrary, she was very willing to be reasonable, analyze the pros and cons, see which option was beneficial, and act ordingly. She did not think there was anything shameful about that.


    But Huo Shao Ting had not mentioned a word about it to her, not even a single word before the court session.


    He only asked her that one sentence during the court session.


    He had already reached a conclusion in his heart, yet only asked her then.


    Although her soul was from ancient times, she was not stubborn or ignorant about everything.


    Otherwise, her n would not have ended up like that because of her in her previous life.


    Although couples could keep some things private, she was involved in this matter. Even if she and Huo Shao Ting were married, he should not have made all the decisions for her in this matter.


    "You''re back? I booked a restaurant. We''ll go out for dinner tonight, not Western food this time, but Chinese," Huo Shao Ting spoke first, his tone very in, as if nothing had happened between them.


    Rong Dai''s heart twinged slightly. Her breathing stalled for a moment as she softly responded, "Okay."


    It was just right that she also had something to say to him. Sometimes, things happen as they should.

 Chapter 123: Going to Divorce

    <h4>Chapter 123</h4>


    Seeing her cold attitude, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes became deep, his thin lips tightened as he looked into her eyes for a few seconds before saying, "Then go change your clothes, I''ll take care of some paperwork and we''ll head out."


    Rong Dai nodded and withdrew her gaze.


    As she passed him, she felt something in her heart kept falling, tumbling into a bottomless abyss.


    Her fingertips tightened slightly, and her hands and feet involuntarily turned icy cold.


    After entering the dressing room, she let out a breath.


    She sat in the chair, looking at herself in the mirror, she had indeed be much more haggard these past few days.


    She nced at the time and carefully selected a long dress in the dressing room.


    Although she was still not very used to this kind of dress that exposed her arms and legs, she would have to get used to it, as she preferred long dresses.


    Huo Shao Ting left the bedroom and went to the study, opening hisputer, Zhang Assistant''s call came in.


    "Boss, are you sure you want to do this? The madam may not be willing!"


    Zhang Assistant was very worried.


    He knew the result of Wen Shi Lan''s return to the Wen Family these past few days.


    To get Wen Shi Lan back, the Wen Family had given up 60% of their shares.


    Even though the Wen Family was not what it used to be, this hump of a camel was still bigger than a horse. He knew very clearly what these 60% of shares meant.


    But he did not expect the boss to transfer all these shares to the madam. In other words, the boss took down the Wen Family and gave it to his wife.


    Only the boss could carry out such an overbearing punishment and gift.


    But in order to ensure these 60% of shares were valid and legal, the boss had rested less than 4 hours a day these past few days.


    "Where is all this nonsenseing from? Did I take it down to give to you?"


    Huo Shao Ting said coldly, startling Zhang Assistant so much his back went cold.


    Such a big gift, even if the boss dared to give it, he didn''t dare ept it!


    "Do as I said."


    "Yes, boss."


    Zhang Assistant didn''t dare ask again, and hurried to get things done.


    Rong Dai had changed her clothes and had been waiting downstairs for a while. The moment she saw Huo Shao Tinging down the stairs, she could still clearly hear her elerated heartbeat.


    The aura this man emitted made it impossible to ignore him.


    The two got in the car and arrived at the reserved restaurant in the evening glow of dusk.


    The husband and wife walking together were simply a beautiful sight.


    When they arrived at the reserved room, Rong Dai saw Ji Zheng who had been waiting here for some time.


    She looked at him in slight surprise, not saying anything.


    Ji Zheng, on the other hand, was not surprised at all.


    He looked at the husband and wife with a smile, his gaze finally falling on Rong Dai, "Ms. Rong, we meet again."


    Before Rong Dai could respond, she heard Huo Shao Ting next to her say indifferently while staring at him, "I''d prefer you address her Mrs. Huo."


    "Alright, Mrs. Huo it is. When I heard you got married, I didn''t believe it. I didn''t expect my client to turn out to be sister-inw."


    Ji Zheng smiled lightly, separated from the couple by a table.


    His temperament was simrly impossible to ignore, but he was not as cold as Huo Shao Ting.


    "Don''t overthink it, sister-inw. Before meeting you, Ms. An rarely mentioned you to me. I hadn''t seen your photo or met you in person either. Although I''m quite curious, I don''t pry into my clients'' privacy."


    "I also only found out recently. Mainly because of themotion, I think it''d be hard not to know."


    Seeing her indifferent expression, Ji Zheng also understood his own profession, so he immediately exined.


    Rong Dai was actually only a little surprised, nothing more.


    Even if she overthought things, with Huo Shao Ting and Ji Zheng''s capabilities, what could she resist?


    "It''s fine, I trust Mr. Ji''s professionalism."


    She nodded politely and responded lightly.


    Ji Zheng looked at the couple leisurely, hands crossed on the table. "So, shall we eat first or discuss business first?"


    Rong Dai was confused. From the moment she saw Ji Zheng, she knew Huo Shao Ting didn''t just bring her here to eat, there must be something else.


    But Ji Zheng was awyer. Why would Huo Shao Ting want awyer to discuss things with them?


    Divorce and assets.


    Only these two.


    But she was very clear about her assets with Huo Shao Ting. So they were getting a divorce?


    She didn''t know Ji Zheng''s business scope was so wide he could even handle divorce cases.


    She didn''t say anything since Huo Shao Ting had arranged this. It wasn''t her ce to speak.


    No matter what, it seemed they would have to reach this point. A fleeting romance, wanting it tost long was simply wishful thinking.


    She took a sip of water from her ss. Watching as Huo Shao Ting called Zhang Assistant in, and Ji Zheng also took out his briefcase.


    Thick documents, ced on the table, the scent of ink still lingered.


    "Mr. Huo, are you really decided about transferring 60% of Wen''s shares?"


    Before starting, Ji Zheng asked Huo Shao Ting very seriously.


    Of course he recognized Huo Shao Ting. They were alumni, just took different paths and had different professions.


    Otherwise, he and Huo Shao Ting would definitely have been rivals.


    "You asking this makes me very doubtful of your professionalism." Huo Shao Ting answered indifferently.


    Ji Zheng was speechless. This guy really hadn''t changed one bit.


    "Mrs. Huo, please take a careful look at these documents. If there are no issues, just sign at the designated ces. If there''s anything you don''t understand, you can ask me."


    Ji Zheng handed her a document, and started working very professionally.


    Rong Dai took it, confused, and couldn''t help but turn to Huo Shao Ting, asking, "Shao Ting, what is going on?"


    Hearing this, Ji Zheng stopped his pen and looked at Huo Shao Ting, then at Zhang Assistant. Seeing Zhang Assistant''s helpless expression, he immediately understood.


    He had taken over this share transfer case, so he knew some of the reasons behind it.


    He just didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to not have told Rong Dai about it.


    "Mr. Huo, I suggest youmunicate with your wife first. I''ll step out for a moment."


    After saying that, he got up and walked out. Zhang Assistant followed him out.


    The room became quiet. Rong Dai nced through the documents before cing them back on the table.


    She was a clever woman. Although she didn''t understand these things, she could still make out a little.


    Share transfers, and Wen Family''s at that.


    She vaguely understood now why Huo Shao Ting had let Wen Shi Lan off.


    "I won''t let that woman off, but the Wen Family mustpensate you what you deserve. These 60% of shares are not much."


    Before she could speak, Huo Shao Ting turned to face her, deep eyes looking at her solemnly.


    Rong Dai''s heart thumped wildly under his gaze. The calm she had just managed to regain was once again out of control.

 Chapter 124: What He Meant

    <h4>Chapter 124</h4>


    "Rong Dai, I''ve said that you''re my wife. Everything I can give you, you don''t need to feel any burden," he said gently, his gaze serious and solemn.


    "If those two hundred million make you feel burdened, then the sixty percent equity is yourpensation for fighting for your life. This is what you deserve."


    "If after paying back those two hundred million you feel our rtionship can be more pure, you can convert the equity to me. It''s enough to cover the two hundred million debt, I may even need to pay you extra."


    Rong Dai was stunned, she didn''t expect this was his thought.


    Had she wronged him with her previous assumptions?


    Rong Dai''s heart churned with mixed emotions, mostly guilt. She didn''t expect he would express his attitude towards their rtionship in this way.


    She had thought their rtionship was just a fleeting affair.


    There were too many problems between them.


    "I didn''t discuss this with you, that was my mistake. I...just worry you''ll overthink, but I didn''t expect by not saying anything, you''d think even more."


    "This kind of situation won''t happen again."


    "Wife, just imprisoning Wen Shi Lan doesn''t seem fair to you. You nearly lost your life."


    "If I lost you, no amount ofpensation would be useful."


    "I also took advantage of this situation. The Wen family has already gained too much from me. If it was just money, I could let it go. But I cannot tolerate them harming you."


    "You''re the woman I chose myself. Now and in the future you''re my wife. If I can''t even give you this assurance, then I''m not a qualified husband."


    Huo Shao Ting held her slender hand. Even now he would still dream about Rong Dai covered in injuries back then.


    He didn''t dare imagine what would have happened if he was a step slower.


    To ask him to forgive Wen Shi Lan and the Wen family was impossible.


    "I know you''re not her. Although I don''t know what happened to you, I''m very certain of this point."


    "If this makes you feel panicked, I won''t ask about it. But I just want to protect you."


    "Admittedly, one reason I married her initially was because of grandmother''s wish. Another reason was when I first met her, I felt she was suitable to marry."


    "But the marriage didn''t turn out as ideal as I expected. You seemed a bit different after leaving the hospitalst time."


    His gaze fixed closely on her. Over the past few days he had also researched a lot of information. He didn''t doubt Dr. Huang''s professionalism.


    But soul transmigration was too mystical. He didn''t dare investigate too deeply either, it would be too creepy for ordinary people.


    But he had experienced so many unbelievable things himself.


    "Rong Dai, I''m certain the one I''ve truly fallen for is the present you. I also hope that in my remaining life, there will be traces of you."


    "This is a heavymitment I would never make lightly to anyone. Only you, I''m willing to make thismitment to."


    "I also hope you can try to ept it. You aren''t without feelings towards me either, I can feel it."


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her intently. At this moment he just wanted to tell her his most genuine thoughts.


    Previously he was worried it would frighten her, so he endured and didn''t say anything.


    But now he had to speak up and take the initiative, he knew revealing such a mystical incident would be terrifying.


    However, he didn''t want this to be an obstruction between them.


    These past few days he had many matters to handle. He also clearly noticed Rong Dai''s changes.


    He knew she felt uneasy.


    Over the past few days he had also considered that if this marriage were to just end like this, Huo Shao Ting found he could not ept it.


    Although recently Rong Dai was deliberately trying to please him, he clearly saw her caution.


    "Rong Dai, I respect all of you, including your choices. But I hope you can give us a chance. If doing so can ease your psychological burden, I''m willing to do this."


    "You''re also a woman with over a billion in assets, marrying me isn''t social climbing. Your strengths are invisible to them. I''m willing to empower you, I believe in you, and I believe in my own judgement."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke with utmost seriousness and rity, enunciating each word.


    Everything entered Rong Dai''s ears without missing a word.


    Rong Dai felt both shocked andplicated inside. She didn''t expect this was how he thought.


    For a moment, she desperately wanted to confess everything. But seeing the serious look in Huo Shao''s eyes, she suddenly became afraid this feeling came too quickly and easily, and she would soon lose it.


    This feeling was like plummeting from the clouds into an abyss, filling her with panic and unease.


    All she could do was grip his palm tightly, her gaze fixed closely on him. But the words stuck in her throat just wouldn''te out.


    She had thought he only loved the original owner, not her present self.


    So she struggled painfully, tangled by contradiction.


    And her identity made her feel insecure, wanting to escape.


    But hearing him say this now with her own ears, she should feel happy.


    Yet she felt even more rmed and uneasy instead.


    The endings of everyone in the Rong family n in her past life were orchestrated by her own hand.


    She couldn''t forgive herself, and didn''t know why Heaven allowed her to relive this life.


    But she didn''t dare believe Heaven would so easily pardon her. She was afraid and uneasy, that if this feeling came too easily, Heaven would take it back.


    She felt Huo Shao Ting''s sincerity.


    If they were destined to only separate, then it''d be better to end the pain quickly.


    But looking into Huo Shao Ting''s eyes, the voice buried deep inside her was urging her again and again to try.


    She was like an ant scurrying between scalding oil and thin ice, wavering in hesitation and indecision.


    "It''s okay, we have time, I also have patience to wait for you. No rush, don''t force yourself either. I''m doing this only to ease your psychological burden. If it has the opposite effect, then that wasn''t my intention."


    Sensing her struggle, Huo Shao Ting gently pulled her into his embrace, breathing in her fragrance, and said gently.

 Chapter 125: Her Contradictions

    <h4>Chapter 125</h4>


    When she heard what he said, Rong Dai''s feelings were extremelyplicated.


    There was joy, but also struggle. The panic and unease in her heart alleviated slightly, but she was still full of contradictions and hesitations inside.


    The things from her previous life, she had spent ten years unable to get out of the gloom, nor could she forgive herself for the mistakes she had made.


    Although being reborn was a good thing, her recent experiences made her terrified that this was a punishment from heaven.


    What could be more frightening than being unable to find happiness as punishment?


    Huo Shao Ting was perfect. He would be apetent and wless husband, and an excellent father.


    But Rong Dai didn''t dare believe that someone like him belonged to her.


    In the eyes of others, her thoughts might seem overly dramatic, but those who hadn''t experienced it could not understand her contradictory and agonized feelings.


    She also wanted to get close to Huo Shao Ting �� who didn''t like nice things?


    So what if she used to be the Empress? She still had unattainable things that she wanted to pursue.


    The man before her, his promise was very sincere and precious.


    But to her, it seemed to havee too quickly, and was obtained too easily.


    Rong Dai was still uneasy inside, but this unease didn''t stem from the secret about herself.


    Rather, she was uneasy about whether she would really find happiness with Huo Shao Ting if she agreed like this.


    Things that came too easily were also lost more quickly.


    The heart-piercing pain she had experienced in her previous life was still fresh in her memory.


    All kinds of distracting thoughts swirled in her mind. Rong Dai rested her chin on his sturdy shoulder, and ced her slender hand on the man''s lower back, secretly taking two deep breaths to steady her mind.


    "Shao Ting, I will try my best."


    Her voice was very soft, but it made Huo Shao Ting''s heart pound wildly when it entered his ears, enveloping him in tremendous joy, as if he was soaked in a vat of honey.


    "But I can''t take the Wen family''s equity."


    After a few minutes of silence in the room, Rong Dai let go of him. The two separated, and she stared at him steadily with her jet ck eyes, speaking very firmly.


    To her, everything about the Wen family held no appeal.


    Wen Shi Lan had harmed her, and receiving due punishment was already the best oue. She didn''t need any extrapensation.


    "If you really understand me, I''ll give you the 200 million as soon as possible."


    Her voice was gentle yet firm.


    Others might not understand why she had to do this, but she knew very clearly herself.


    It was like some people''s pursuit of a sense of ritual in life.


    She was not the original owner of this body. Although Huo Shao Ting had now given her these exnations and understanding, the 200 million was negligible to him.


    But she knew that this expenditure was for the original owner, not her.


    The 2 billion was her repayment on the original owner''s behalf, to settle things between the original owner and Huo Shao Ting.


    Although she had been an Empress in her previous life, her thinking was different from other women. She had to do this, or the barriers in her heart would be hard to erase.


    She didn''t know how to exin this clearly to Huo Shao Ting in words, but she knew she had to do it this way.


    "Alright, as long as you''re happy, but only this once."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was low and maic, especially gentle when he spoke, easily captivating people.


    Rong Dai nodded. This kind of thing could only happen once, of course.


    The assets left by Imperial Concubine Ya were not unlimited. Casually spending 200 million at once, she didn''t have a gold mine or money printing machine, how could she afford to keep doing that?


    Although there were still things the two of them needed to understand more about each other, the wall that had stood between them vanished after just over ten minutes of exnation.


    Rong Dai knew that as long as she was willing to walk over to Huo Shao Ting''s side, this man could do everything he had promised her.


    But she was more willing to wait a little longer. Some things couldn''t be fixed quickly just by forcing them.


    She and Huo Shao Ting were aligned in some respects, but they couldn''t be said to understand and be attuned to each other yet.


    Marriage wasn''t a game. What she needed was for marriage to be the icing on the cake in her life, not something that confined her.


    The misunderstanding between the husband and wife had mostly been resolved. Rong Dai instantly felt much more rxed.


    This way, she didn''t have to hide anything from Huo Shao Ting, afraid of revealing ws and living in trepidation every day.


    Huo Shao Ting then took out his phone and sent Zhang Assistant a message. Zhang Assistant immediately passed it on to Ji Zheng.


    "Your Boss Huo really gets more willful the older he gets! Tell him he owes me a meal."


    Ji Zheng shrugged helplessly, gave Zhang Assistant some instructions, then left the restaurant carrying his briefcase.


    Of course, Zhang Assistant wasn''t going to stay and be a lightbulb. He had to hurry back to get some sleep. He had been worked like a dog these past few days.


    The husband and wife had dinner together. Perhaps because the misunderstanding had been resolved, Rong Dai was in a good mood and ate a bit more.


    After the meal, Huo Shao Ting took her on the Ferris wheel. Rong Dai was so nervous that her palms broke out in sweat.


    "Don''t be afraid, I''m here."


    Huo Shao Ting''srge hand tightly sped her slender one, his voice gentle.


    Rong Dai''s face was a little pale. After taking a couple deep breaths to adjust her state of mind, she looked around.


    "The night view here really is beautiful."


    Seeing the neon lights of the city, Rong Dai couldn''t help but exim in admiration.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t speak, just quietly listening to her, though he was also very curious what her previous world had been like. But he had patience to wait until she was willing to talk about it, and it was fine if she didn''t want to share.


    Frightening her once was already more than enough.


    "Aren''t you going to ask what the nights I saw before were like?"


    Hearing no response from him, Rong Dai couldn''t help but feel curious.


    Although there were some things she didn''t want to talk about, she could still say a sentence or two about what she could share.


    Although this went against her previous stance, and was a bit contradictory.


    But acknowledging it herself was one thing, talking about some things from her previous life was another matter.


    "If you want to say, you''ll naturally talk about it." He gazed at her, his deep eyes reflecting her shadow, captivating.


    Rong Dai looked at him. The emotion that had faded over the past few days erupted wildly in her heart again. Her heartbeat elerated, and her breathing grew slightly hurried.


    "Don''t you think I''m very contradictory?" She averted her gaze. This man wasn''t as handsome as the Emperor.


    But just looking at this man a few more times would make one sink into him, unable to extricate themselves.


    "Contradictions show that you''re struggling, considering - it''s a necessary process of eptance or rejection. If you weren''t contradictory, I''d be worried instead."


    His voice was gentle, light, floating into her ears on the night breeze. Rong Dai''s breathing stalled slightly as her gaze involuntarily focused on his eyes.


    All the noise around them suddenly seemed to fade away. She could clearly hear her own heartbeat, thump thump, like beating a drum.

 Chapter 126: I Want to See More of You.

    <h4>Chapter 126</h4>


    "Shao Teng, I...mmm..."


    Her heart softened as a gentle feeling washed over her. This man could understand her conflicted feelings and was willing to give her time.


    Just as she was about to speak, the man beside her wrapped hisrge hand around her waist. His soft, slightly cool lips pressed down on hers.


    Rong Dai''s heart raced as her breathing grew ragged. Her whole body felt like it was on fire.


    The blood that had been dormant these past few days began boiling once more. Every inch of her was filled with an indescribable heat and tension, as well as joy.


    She didn''t resist, clumsily responding to him. She ced her slender hands on his solid chest, their breaths intertwining.


    His kiss was gentle yet passionate, irresistible to her. The thrill and joy from such intimacy was ineffable.


    In her past life, although she harbored feelings for the Emperor, his status was always lofty and unapproachable. All beings had to bow before him in submission.


    Aside from their wedding night, unconstrained passion like this was absent in their thirty years of marriage. Even the intimate affairs between husband and wife followed protocol.


    She had never truly experienced such thrilling intimacy with someone she cared for.


    Shao Teng''s kiss was long and sensual, not stopping until both were gasping for air, bodies burning with desire, her going limp in his embrace.


    Only then did he reluctantly pull away.


    If this continued, he was afraid he would lose control.


    He was a normal man. Such intimacy with his woman naturally made him want more.


    But they were in a ferris wheel.


    Shao Teng regretted this a little. He clearly felt her willingness to let him have his way, if they kept going.


    But their location...meant he had to endure a celibate lifestyle a while longer.


    "Shao Teng, I, I..."


    Rong Dai breathed heavily, face flushed, her thick dark hair slightly disheveled. Her red lips parted as the neon lights illuminated the dazed desire in her eyes.


    "I''m willing to wait for you. There''s no rush. I don''t want you to force yourself. With me, just be yourself, no need for pretense."


    Shao Teng said gently. Hisrge hand still gripped her waist. Seeing her like this, his body screamed and roared with desire!


    But he endured, not wanting to force her to satisfy him, especially regarding these matters.


    Intimacy between husband and wife should happen naturally, when emotions run high and feelings are mutual, not just to cater to him.


    He gently kissed her forehead. The ferris wheel reached its peak, granting an almost 360 view of the nightscape.


    Rong Dai felt warm, as if the rising sun enveloped her heart.


    She knew what would''ve happened if they were in the bedroom instead.


    She was willing.


    She sensed Shao Teng''s restraint and patience. His patience warmed her heart. The tender bud that had been trampled suddenly sprouted again.


    The couple held hands, simply enjoying this rare moment in the ferris wheel, some emotions need not be spoken to be felt.


    After disembarking, the couple watched the lively crowds in the square. But both their hearts were calm.


    This calm contained satisfaction and affection. Gazing at everything before them, all was beautiful.


    At this hour, aside from people out for ate dinner, there were many couples in the square.


    Naturally, many romantic gestures could be seen between the lovers around them.


    "Sir, yourdy is so beautiful. Buying her flowers will delight her!" A peddler holding a huge bouquet of vibrant red roses approached them, his words honeyed.


    "I''ll take eleven." Shao Teng held Rong Dai''s hand and swiftly took out his phone to scan the code.


    "That''s too much. Bringing back such a huge bouquet..." In Rong Dai''s heart was sweetness. Without her past status, she was just an ordinary woman.


    Flowers were fatally alluring to women, like jewels.


    "Madam, as I said, eleven roses represent a lifetime of devotion. Not too much at all, just right! It shows your husband''s sincerity!"


    The peddler beamed, immediately exining.


    Rong Dai could only watch helplessly as Shao Teng bought them before the peddler finished speaking.


    "Last time was lcs, a bitcking this time. Next time I''ll get you more." Shao Teng took the roses and handed them to her.


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry, but said nothing more sentimental.


    If both were destitute, buying flowers to express love would be extravagant indeed.


    But money wasn''t so tight between her and Shao Teng that they couldn''t afford flowers. Spending a little on meaningful gestures to convey affection wasn''t wrong in her eyes.


    She had yearned for such things in her past life. Though suitors gifted her jade pendants and red beans instead of flowers, imbued with meaning.


    But the Emperor had only gifted her a single hairpin, which she treasured.


    Later she realized it wasn''t thrift, butck of feeling for her.


    For Imperial Concubine Xi, he had even sent his personal guards all over the nation to find her fine things.


    Only then did she know, his passiony elsewhere, she just wasn''t that woman.


    The scent of roses filled Rong Dai with bliss.


    Hand in hand, they walked like an ordinary couple through the square.


    Rong Dai wouldn''t have imagined the lofty business magnate would stroll the square, buyingmon flowers and snacks.


    Cotton candy, candied haws, and sugar figures, they tasted it all.


    Not until the crowds dispersed and the city''s mor settled, did they leave for home.


    Unbeknownst to them, paparazzi had captured their every move that night.


    After all, the verdict had surprised many, though some found it expected.


    Many were waiting to gossip online.


    That night, Rong Dai slept wonderfully. Upon waking, Shao Teng had not left, but watched her.


    Her cheeks reddened instantly. "Why didn''t you wake early today?"


    "Wanted to look at you longer. I want to get to know you, understand you."


    Shao Teng smoothly spoke sweet nothings, instantly elerating Rong Dai''s heartbeat as her cheeks flushed crimson. She swiftly got up.


    "There''s plenty of time. I''m not so easily figured out."


    Face red, she haughtily said over her shoulder before hurrying to the bathroom in slippers.


    Shao Teng smiled. Saying nothing, he too rose from bed.


    Usually he wouldn''t bother tidying up.


    Recalling how she had tidied up earlier, he neatly made the slightly messy bed before heading to the bathroom.

 Chapter 127: Autochondriac

    <h4>Chapter 127</h4>


    When Rong Dai saw hime in, she was startled.


    "Get used to it slowly, okay? Every minute I spend with you, I don''t want to miss a second of it." Huo Shao Ting saw her expression and reached out to tidy her messy hair, asking her gently.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed as she thought of everything that had happened between the two of them in the bathroom earlier. Her mind started to wander uncontrobly.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t say much more. After tidying her up, he started washing up.


    The married couple came downstairs together for breakfast. Huo Mei Shu looked at the two of them being inseparable again, as if yesterday''s discord was her illusion.


    She nced at Huo Shao Jie in confusion. Huo Shao Jie shook his head and lowered his voice, "I told you not to worry too much. My big brother knows his limits. It''s good enough if you don''t make things worse."


    Huo Mei Shu rolled her eyes at him, toozy to respond.


    But it was a very good thing that the eldest brother and sister-inw had made up. She quickly reported the "battle situation" to Lu Zheng and Huo Old Madam.


    When Lu Zheng and Huo Old Madam got the news, they both breathed a sigh of relief. After all, what the whole family worried about most was Huo Shao Ting''s personal issues.


    Seeing the reply from the olddy, Huo Mei Shu''s eyes inadvertently nced at Huo Shao Jie across the table drinking milk. Her eyes shed a hint of slyness.


    This second brother, his head was always filled with acting. She didn''t care about his personal issues, and she wouldn''t feel bad if he stayed single for life.


    But for this matter between the eldest brother and sister-inw, his performance made Huo Mei Shu very dissatisfied.


    Old grudges and new hatred added up, she immediately sent a message back to the old madam: The eldest brother''s problem is solved. I think you and Granny should consider the second brother''s marriage. If the timing is right, maybe you can hold two grandsons at the same time.


    Seeing her daughter''s reply, Lu Zheng frowned slightly, but after careful thought, it seemed to be the case.


    Then she discussed with her old sister friends which family''s daughter would be suitable, preparing to find a match for her second son when she returned.


    Seeing the olddy''s reply, Huo Mei Shu was very satisfied. She stared at Huo Shao Jie meaningfully for a few seconds.


    "Why are you staring at me like that? I didn''t say anything wrong. Didn''t you see that eldest brother and sister-inw married first, then fell in love? When people are in love, what are you messing around for?"


    Huo Shao Jie felt a chill down his spine from her gaze. He knew his sister well.


    This kind of look meant nothing good.


    "Second brother, don''t underestimate Mother''s ability to worry. You tell me, now that eldest brother and sister-inw''s problem is solved, who should be next?"


    Huo Mei Shu raised her eyebrows, extremely gloating.


    Huo Shao Jie suddenly widened his eyes. This girl was up to no good!


    "What are you two talking about? You seem so happy."


    Before he could ask, Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting walked over to the dining table. Rong Dai asked with a smile.


    "Oh, nothing important. I''m just happy that sister-inw and big brother get along so well. I feel like my dream of holding a nephew is not far off. So I asked Mom if it''s time to arrange a marriage for second brother too. It''s not right for him to just eat and live idly at home."


    Huo Mei Shu ignored Huo Shao Jie''s murderous gaze and smiled at Rong Dai to exin.


    Rong Dai looked at the little uncle. Her face was thoughtful: "Well... it is time to consider it. Acting is tiring. Shao Jie, you also need someone to take care of you and apany you."


    Huo Shao Jie was distressed. What retribution did he suffer this morning? Why was he being rushed to marry?


    "Although I don''t object to living idly since I can afford it. But living idly and being ipetent, you should find a smarter person to discipline you."


    Seeing his wife speak, Huo Shao Ting paused holding his chopsticks and nced coldly at Huo Shao Jie again, also very much agreeing.


    Huo Shao Jie: "..."


    Was it still possible for him to pretend to pass out now?


    "But don''t rush it. You still have to find someone you love, so you can live your whole life happily, not miserably."


    Seeing the little uncle''s dejected appearance, Rong Dai quickly came to his rescue with a smile.


    Huo Shao Jie immediately looked at her gratefully. After being nced at indifferently by Huo Shao Ting, he obediently continued eating breakfast.


    After breakfast, Rong Dai sent Huo Shao Ting off to work.


    Hugging her by the waist before getting in the car, Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead before happily going to thepany.


    Rong Dai''s face was red. As soon as she turned around, she saw the little sister-inw with a smile, looking eager for gossip. She wished she could dig a hole and bury herself!


    "Sister-inw, confess truthfully. Have you and my brother..."


    Rong Dai understood clearly what the little sister-inw was implying. Her cheeks couldn''t help but burn.


    If it hadn''t been on the Ferris wheelst night, she and Huo Shao Ting might have really given themselves to each other.


    She knew this era was more open-minded in certain aspects. She was also willing to try to understand and ept these fresh ideas.


    But deep down she was still rtively conservative. She immediately red at the little sister-inw: "I think I can mention to your mom if it''s time to finalize your marriage arrangements too. Why don''t you tell me, who''s the boy you like?"


    Seeing that she couldn''t get any gossip, and had brought trouble on herself, Huo Mei Shu immediately sighed: "Sister-inw, you''ve changed. You didn''t use to be like this."


    Seeing her pretend resentment, Rong Dai was a little amused. She looked at the time and then asked her, "Didn''t you sayst time that you wanted to eat dessert? I n to cook lunch for your eldest brother and bring it to him. I can also teach you how to make some desserts."


    "Great! Sister-inw, your cooking skills are simply amazing! You''re my idol from now on!"


    Thinking of the sister-inw''s superb cooking skills, Huo Mei Shu was excited to the point of flying up!


    "But wouldn''t that be too intrusive?"


    Rong Dai hesitated a little. She had just thought of it.


    Since Huo Shao Ting had given her so much patience and trust, no matter what the final oue of this rtionship, at least she wouldn''t have regrets during the process.


    She would just follow her heart.


    "How could that be? Eldest brother will definitely be very happy!"


    Huo Mei Shu said excitedly, impatiently pushing her into the kitchen.


    Rong Dai didn''t ask any more. She started preparing ingredients. The electrical appliances here were convenient, and the variety of ingredients was abundant. She was also willing to learn about and ept these novel things, so she spent the whole morning with the little sister-inw in the kitchen.


    "Sister-inw, how can your skills be so good? I think if you open a restaurant with your cooking, it will definitely be a huge hit!"


    Huo Mei Shu had her mouth full of freshly baked pastries, jumping for joy on the spot.


    Rong Dai smiled gently. While packing the lunch she made for Huo Shao Ting, she said, "Forget about opening a restaurant. If you want to eat in the future, I can make it for you, or teach you. What I taught you today are rtively traditional desserts, pineapple cake and osmanthus sweet potato cake, not too difficult."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded repeatedly, her eyes bubbling with excitement. Seeing her pack up the food, she volunteered, "Sister-inw, let me take you to eldest brother''spany."

 Chapter 128: The Impossible Ambition

    <h4>Chapter 128</h4>


    Rong Dai did not refuse. Her sister-inw had a driver''s license and knew thepany much better than she did.


    The two sisters-inw timed their arrival at Huo''s Enterprise headquarters building. The whole building was Huo Enterprise''s property and was already andmark in Shengjing.


    Seeing men and women in suits and tiesing and going in the building, each person was in a hurry.


    Rong Dai felt this was all very refreshing.


    Women in her previous life were really suffering. Althoughdies from wealthy families didn''t have to lift a finger, living a life of luxury,pared to the women of this life, there was a huge difference.


    The women here were more aplished than many men. Although there were still some gaps in status, no one dared look down on their abilities.


    The women here were free and independent.


    In contrast, in the previous life she lived, even if a woman had a noble status and prominent family, in men''s eyes, she was just an essory.


    Those women were just high-ss ornamental objects, not only used to adorn the "facade" of men, but also shouldered the responsibility of continuing the family line.


    After all, they were just gilded cages, even if she was the queen, her thoughts were different from ordinary women, she still could not escape that fate.


    This era allowed her to truly experience what is called freedom and equality.


    Huo''s Enterprise headquarters towered among the dense buildings, very eye-catching.


    With this building as the center, the surroundings were all famous corporate buildings in Shengjing, forming an important financial circle.


    "There must be countless people dying to get into Huo''s Enterprise, right?"


    Rong Dai wore a beige ankle-length dress, slender waist, graceful curves, thick luscious hair tied up with a novel yet elegant hairpin, a few strands of hair fluttering in the warm breeze, beautiful and elegant with a touch ofziness.


    Her eyes sparkled like the stars and the sea.


    Huo Mei Shu was also good looking as the young miss of a prominent family. Since ancient times, food and beauty were human nature. She had seen many beautiful women as the daughter of a wealthy family.


    But she had never seen such a breathtaking beauty who was a scenic line just by standing here like her sister-inw.


    Her sister-inw exuded an indescribable elegant temperament all the time, dignified and intelligent, just like those aplished youngdies from ancient times.


    "Sister-inw, let''s hurry up! Your beauty is too much for people to handle. I don''t want to get scolded by brother."


    Huo Mei Shu saw many men''s eyes falling on Rong Dai repeatedly, and felt a tingling scalp. She hurriedly pushed Rong Dai towards the building.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. She was deeply aware of her own beauty.


    But she never took pride in it. Having a beautiful appearance was undoubtedly a good thing, but this inner temperament and deportment could never be made up by just the exterior.


    Things like temperament and deportment radiated from the inside out.


    From the time she babbled her first words in her previous life, her family had spared no effort in educating her.


    The offspring of the Rong family were almost all elites, but they were all demoted and exiled to deste ces because of her.


    Many thoughts shed through Rong Dai''s mind. Because of her experience in her previous life, she would involuntarily makeparisons whenever she was impressed by this era.


    The two sisters-inw quickly entered the building. Huo Mei Shu was the young miss of Huo Enterprise. She attended thepany''s annual meeting every year and the employees certainly recognized her.


    As for Rong Dai, their CEO''s wife who was the center of attention recently, it would be difficult not to recognize her.


    Because of the two''s identities, they directly took the elevator for CEO Huo Shao Ting''s exclusive use.


    This was the first time the CEO''s wife hade to thepany. The news spread quickly throughout the building and caused an uproar.


    "Where''s my brother?"


    When Huo Mei Shu arrived at the CEO''s floor, she immediately asked the assistant at the front desk.


    The front desk assistant was a female intern, good-looking, first stunned when she saw the two, then revealed a professional smile, "Miss Huo, madam, the CEO is still in a meeting."


    "Alright, you go about your business."


    Huo Mei Shu waved her hand, smiling as she linked arms with Rong Dai, "Sister-inw, let me give you a tour."


    When the assistant heard this, she revealed a professional smile and said, "Miss Huo, I''m afraid the CEO''s office floor is off limits for tours. It''s hard for me to do my job, please understand."


    Huo Mei Shu was especially attentive towards women around her eldest brother. Hearing the assistant say this, she immediately frowned at the other party.


    "Say that again?"


    Ridiculous. This was her eldest brother''s office floor. Her sister-inw was her brother''s wife. His own wife and sister couldn''t even tour it?


    Rong Dai was a "seasoned" woman. This assistant had an innocent look with well-defined features.


    If she and the young miss were just clients wanting to tour the CEO''s floor, it would indeed be unreasonable.


    If she said so, she would be diligently performing her duties.


    But Huo Mei Shu was Huo Enterprise''s young miss, Huo Shao Ting''s sister. And she was Huo Shao Ting''s wife.


    His own wife and sister couldn''t even tour his office?


    She didn''t know if female assistants in this era had to have such sweet looks and dress so provocatively.


    But in her previous life, she had seen many pce women. This girl''s eyes were not innocent. Her ambition was hidden well.


    But still immature before her.


    "It''s ok, Mei Shu. Let''s wait until your brother finishes his meeting."


    Rong Dai stopped the young miss''s temper, smiling lightly as she spoke.


    The assistant immediately showed a grateful look, "Thank you for understanding, madam. I''ll take you to the reception room now."


    When she heard the assistant say she would take them to the reception room instead of Huo Shao Ting''s office, Huo Mei Shu''s face darkened again.


    But Rong Dai said nothing, a faint smile on her face as she pulled the young miss along to the reception room with the assistant.


    "What kind of assistant is this? Such low intelligence? Is this the hiring standard of my brother now?"


    Sitting in the reception room, Huo Mei Shu was furious!

 Chapter 129: Huo Linjing鈥檚 People

    <h4>Chapter 129</h4>


    "Don''t be angry, she''s just doing her job," Rong Dai said lightly, but she was unhappy inside.


    There were still many problems between her and Huo Shao Ting, and they still needed time to get used to each other.


    But this had nothing to do with outsiders. She was still Huo Shao Ting''s wife now, and these youngdies were trying to climb up.


    If this was her past life, her upbringing would not have allowed her to reject her husband taking concubines.


    In her past life, those imperial consorts and concubines in the emperor''s harem were all handled by her as the empress.


    She had also thought about being able to obtain a love like her father and mother, with musical harmony for a lifetime.


    But in her past life, her father had endured tremendous pressure for her mother, after all, it was very normal for men to have three wives and four concubines at that time.


    But it was different here.


    Reborn again, she just wanted to do things ording to her own heart, especially in emotional matters. She could not tolerate any ws, otherwise she would not have been so contradictory and tangled before, and could have directly been with Huo Shao Ting in the original host''s identity.


    But it seemed that no matter if it was her past life or this life, it was unavoidable for her to personally pinch peach blossoms.


    However, pinching peach blossoms also had its principles and methods.


    Doing things recklessly out of temper like little sister, although effective, would make herself not look good as well.


    "Sister-inw, how can you not be angry at all?" Huo Mei Shu was extremely angry. She could see what ideas that female assistant had.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, but signaled her to sit down, and said gently, "It''s not worth getting angry over such a trivial matter."


    "How can this be a trivial matter? Whichpany''s female assistant would dress up so coquettishly? Is she here to work or to seduce my brother?"


    The little sister was furious!


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. With the little sister��s personality, if she had lived in her past life, she could only stay in the harem for half a month at most, and would likely perish prematurely.


    "Since your brother hired her in, it shows that she must have extraordinary talents. Judging only by her looks, it would be too shallow if she could get into the Huo family. I believe your brother is not that kind of person with bad judgement."


    "If your brother really likes her, I won''t object either."


    Huo Mei Shu immediately red with wide eyes, looking at her nervously and incredulously, "Sister-inw! Although these things happen frequently in prestigious families, my brother is definitely not that kind of person! And our family definitely does not allow it either!"


    "Listen to me first," Rong Dai said very helplessly.


    "If she is willing to be a nameless concubine, give birth to children for Shao Ting, and your brother is also willing, I won''t object either."


    "I��ll just be the proper wife, but the affection between husband and wife will end there. Believe it or not, as long as your brother gives the word, I can even personally select for him."


    Rong Dai��s voice was not loud, but she was sure it could be heard by the people outside the reception room.


    "Giving birth ruins even the most delicate figures, and giving birth is an extremely painful thing. If someone is willing toplete this for me, I would be overjoyed to get a child for free, wouldn��t that be great? And they would all have to call me mother."


    Huo Mei Shu held her forehead, "Sister-inw, let me calm down first."


    She really didn''t expect her sister-inw to have such an open mindset, and could even select concubines for her brother! And raise the concubines'' children!


    Was sister-inw thinking of opening her own Huo family kindergarten and being the principal herself?


    "Sister-inw, this is not the Qing Dynasty! Our family does not allow this. If my brother wrongs you first, no matter how good he is to us, I will definitely stand by your side."


    After taking a few deep breaths, Huo Mei Shu looked at her very seriously and said.


    Rong Dai retracted her side nce, with a hint of a smile on her face.


    "Of course I know this is not the Qing Dynasty. And if such things really happen, I will definitely divorce your brother."


    "It''s already not easy being a woman in this world, why should I wrong myself to please a man who has no heart for me?"


    She smiled lightly and patted the little sister''s hand. She didn''t expect the little sister to say such words.


    "And those words just now were meant for people outside to hear."


    She gestured with her eyes to the reception room door. That female assistant had been eavesdropping outside just now.


    "Sister-inw, you mean someone was eavesdropping outside the door just now?!"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately widened her eyes, with mes jumping in them!


    Rong Dai nodded, then opened the packed lunch box, which contained pastries made by the two of them this morning.


    "Eat some sweets, it will improve your mood. This is just a trivial matter. If you get so worked up over the tricks of a small assistant like this, won''t you be annoyed to death in the future?"


    Huo Mei Shu started eating the pastries, nodding, but still very angry in her heart!


    That female assistant must be fired no matter what!


    "I''m going to the restroom, will be right back."


    Rong Dai had drunk a lot of water this morning, and now had to pee urgently, so she said.


    Huo Mei Shu had originally wanted to apany her, but Rong Dai did not have this habit, so she went out herself.


    The CEO office floor was veryrge. Because it could not be close to Huo Shao Ting''s office area, there was also a reception room here, so there was a restroom for employees and customers.


    Rong Dai really had to go urgently, so she went into the employee restroom.


    She had just finished, when she heard the sound of high heels approaching. Rong Dai did not recognize anyone in thispany, so she thought to wait in the restroom for the person to leave before going out, to avoid awkwardness.


    The personing in was talking on the phone, obviously very assured of the environment here.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but be gossipy, pricking up her ears to listen carefully. Hearing the voice, she knew it was the female assistant from before.


    "Lin Jing, your sister-inw doesn''t seem difficult to deal with either! I even heard her say she could tolerate Huo Shao Ting having three wives and four concubines! I really can''t understand how you could suffer a loss!"


    The female assistant said while putting on makeup in front of the mirror.


    Rong Dai frowned as soon as she heard this.


    Lin Jing?


    Was it Huo Linjing?


    She took out her phone and turned on the recording. She found that the recording and video functions on modern phones were what she liked very much.


    Irond evidence!


    She could not record or hear what Huo Linjing said on the phone, but every word from the female assistant was recorded without omission, and also heard clearly by Rong Dai.


    Her face immediately turned cold.


    These despicable tricks were really impressive. Arranging a woman for her cousin brother, and wanting to interfere in the Huo family business finances, was Huo Linjing crazy for Wen Runlin?


    She did not stop recording, putting her phone in her pocket. After tidying up a bit, she came out of the restroom.


    The female assistant was putting on lipstick, with one hand still on the phone. Seeing here out, her face instantly stiffened, and the expression on her face cracked like a spider web.


    Rong Dai''s expression was normal, and she went to the sink to wash her hands as if nothing had happened. She looked up at the mirror and could see clearly any change in the female assistant''s expression.


    "Next time you want to gossip in a ce like the restroom, I suggest you check each stall first, or it''ll end up like today."

 Chapter 130: We Are In This Together

    <h4>Chapter 130</h4>


    "What''s your name?"


    Rong Dai''s expression was calm. The girl''s appearance could only be described as sweet, it was still far from being a beauty.


    Moreover, her temperament was too cheap.


    "D-Ding Keqing." The female assistant stammered.


    "I''ll remember you." Rong Dai said lightly, wiping the water droplets off her hands with a paper towel, and walking out. She stopped at the door.


    She turned around and nced at Ding Keqing, "Right, I also remembered what you just said."


    After saying that, she left.


    Ding Keqing''s face turned pale, her legs went soft, and she slid down sitting on the floor.


    "Keqing, what''s wrong with you? Who were you talking to just now?" Huo Linjing couldn''t hear very clearly on the phone, so she asked.


    "Huo Linjing, this time you really want me dead!"


    Ding Keqing''s face turned from pale to purplish red. She yelled at the phone angrily and impatiently, then hung up and staggered up from the ground to chase after Rong Dai.


    Leaving Huo''s Enterprise because of this would not be a bad thing, but it would be the biggest obstacle for her to find a job in the future!


    The personal files of everyone who left Huo''s Enterprise would clearly record the reasons for leaving thepany!


    If this matter was exposed, it would ruin her!


    Ding Keqing was extremely anxious and hurriedly rushed to the reception room, "Madam! Please let me exin..."


    She pushed open the door and spoke out, but when she saw the people in the reception room, she was stunned!


    Huo Shao Ting was already in the reception room, and Zhang Assistant''s face was very ugly.


    "Miss Ding, how do you do things? Letting the madam and miss wait in the reception room?"


    In order to save his own life, Zhang Assistant had to take the initiative to attack. Moreover, it was time to deal with this Ding Keqing, he had just been waiting for an opportunity.


    Ding Keqing''s face turned pale, cold sweat came out of her forehead, her eyes stared straight at Rong Dai, both anxious and hopeful.


    Rong Dai naturally knew what she wanted to do.


    If Assistant Ding was only greedy for vanity and wanted to marry into a rich and powerful family, she certainly wouldn''t care.


    If Huo Shao Ting could even tolerate such a woman, it could only mean that she had misjudged him.


    But Ding Keqing was sent by Huo Linjing''s side to be nted in thepany, although she couldn''t get ess to any core work.


    However, when Huo Shao Ting was busy, he would sometimes rest in thepany. Although trusting him was one thing, it was still difficult to guard against some despicable framing.


    Especially since Ding Keqing was in the president''s office floor, if she wanted to do something, it would be too easy.


    "It''s okay, Zhang Assistant. I just heard some interesting things."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. Her smile was very gentle.


    But in Ding Keqing''s eyes, it was as terrible as hell.


    "Since Assistant Ding is here too, let''s let Shao Ting and Mei Shu listen to this recording. I''m lucky enough to run into things like this every time."


    She took out her cell phone and tapped to y the recording on the table.


    "No!"


    Ding Keqing was shocked! She didn''t expect Rong Dai to have recorded it too!


    She was anxious to rush over, but was stopped by Zhang Assistant.


    With the yback of the recording, before Huo Shao Ting could speak, his younger sister Huo Mei Shu was angry first!


    "Brother, we can''t keep such a person in thepany! She''s vicious!"


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were cold as he nced at Assistant Ding. Even Zhang Assistant, who was standing next to her, felt extremely cold. His back was as if someone was blowing cold air, chilly.


    "Of course she can''t stay in thepany." His tone was cold, and Ding Keqing''s face was ashen just from that one look.


    She knew she was finished!


    "Back up the madam''s recording, do I still need to teach you the rest?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze was cold as it swept across Zhang Assistant''s face. His tone of voice was faint, seeming calm, but it made people''s hair stand on end.


    Zhang Assistant hurriedly nodded. Rong Dai noticed the problem and looked at Huo Shao Ting questioningly.


    After Zhang Assistant took Ding Assistant out of the reception room, she asked, "This person... Did you know she was a problem a long time ago?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with a gentle and pampering look in his eyes. Huo Mei Shu was very speechless on the side, but couldn''t resist the temptation of gossip and had to endure the sour taste to listen along.


    "Of course I knew. Marrying you was the most correct decision I''ve made in my life."


    Huo Shao Ting''s tone was gentle, and he briefly exined the matter.


    "So brother, do you mean that with sister-inw''s recording, all the people on Second Uncle''s side can be eliminated?"


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up excitedly!


    Although she didn''t know the hardships behind her elder brother being able to control Huo''s Enterprise all these years, she knew it was very difficult.


    After their father passed away, thepany was taken over by Second Uncle''s side.


    Although Grandma did her best to eliminate these people at the time, this was apany. Topletely rece all these people would have to be done step by step, and even require justifiable reasons when the right opportunities arise.


    If it weren''t for Second Uncle''s people making trouble, her elder brother wouldn''t have devoted all his thoughts to work over the years, bing estranged from their family, and even bing a lot colder.


    "Mm." Huo Shao Ting nodded.


    Rong Dai breathed a sigh of relief. Although she didn''t want to hide her actions, she was still concerned about Huo Shao Ting''s opinion.


    She would also worry that Huo Shao Ting would think she was a scheming and vicious woman.


    "So your sister-inw is my lucky star." Huo Shao Ting held Rong Dai''s hand gently. His tone was very gentle.


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but sigh and roll her eyes. She should have known better than to eat desserts, this ton of dog food would choke her to death!


    "I''ll go wander around myself, you two can be affectionate on your own."


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t stand it anymore. She got up from the sofa with a shiver and hurriedly left the reception room.


    Huo Shao Ting carried the lunch Rong Dai brought in one hand, and held her hand in the other as they walked to his office.


    "Wash your hands first, the food is still hot, try the taste."


    When they got to his office, Rong Dai urged him and set out the food for him.


    Huo Shao Ting very obediently washed his hands and came over. Seeing the food she made, it greatly increased one''s appetite just looking at it.


    "Shao Ting, you don''t think I''m a very scheming and calcting woman, do you?"


    Seeing that he was acting as usual and had no words at all about her recording, she really couldn''t help asking.


    "No schemes or calctions? Should I marry an idiot who only knows how to coquet and throw tantrums?"


    Huo Shao Ting retorted.


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly, "That''s not what I meant. Don''t you think I''m too sly?"


    Hearing her say this, and seeing the inadvertent tension in her eyes, he put down his chopsticks and held her hand.


    He looked at her very seriously, "Being scheming, calcting and sly are not bad things. You''re excellent, don''t belittle yourself."


    "If being sly is a bad thing, to use this to judge one''s character, then I''m also one of them. We''re partners in crime, don''t worry."


    The tension in Rong Dai''s heart disappeared, feeling extremely warm. This man always understood her without needing too much exnation, and was considerate.

 Chapter 131: I Like It All

    <h4>Chapter 131</h4>


    "Even though you''re my wife, I hope that spiritually, you''re still the independent person you are. Having scheming skills means you''ll analyze the pros and cons."


    "That way, even if I''m not able to look out for you, you''ll still be able to protect yourself well, and I''ll be able to rest easy," Huo Shao Ting said very seriously.


    At his level, a good-looking exterior was just an empty shell to him.


    When he had married Rong Dai at first, he had thought they would be able to respect each other like his parents had for their whole lives.


    Because to him, marriage wasn''t a necessity.


    What was most important was that he was very clear that finding a wife whose soul resonated with his would be extremely difficult.


    And coincidentally, he was just that lucky.


    To be able to gain a wife like this, Rong Dai''s changes, perhaps she hadn''t noticed them herself.


    But he had seen everything clearly, she was different from other women.


    "Before you were hospitalized, I had always thought marriage wasn''t a necessity for me. If getting married could reassure my family, even without an emotional foundation with the other person, achieving a marriage of mutual basic respect and deference wouldn''t be a bad thing."


    He looked at Rong Dai, his expression suddenly changing, tightly grasping her hand and staring into her eyes.


    "But after you left the hospital, you were the first woman to make me feel impulsive, nervous, and uneasy."


    "After my father passed away, I understood the burden on my shoulders. My life and my work isn''t just personal, it''s also my family''s."


    "So I''m more rational and restrained than ordinary people, but only with you have I felt impulsive, gotten nervous over you, feared losing you."


    "Even when thepany was in such danger before, on the verge of bankruptcy, I had never been so afraid. When I saw you lying on the ground covered in blood, I hated that I hadn''t killed the people who had hurt you!"


    "Rong Dai, I know your changes, the difference between you and her is too great. That ink jade, from the Upper Yuan Empire, it has your name on it."


    Upon hearing him say this, Rong Dai stared wide-eyed in shock.


    Seeing her reaction, a huge weight lifted from Huo Shao Ting''s heart. Although he still hoped to get her verbal confirmation, he knew it would be hard.


    Even if it was about himself, he wouldn''t be able to speak of things from a past life either.


    Because speaking it out meant admitting it, which could potentially threaten himself. It wasn''t an issue of trust orck thereof, but an instinct.


    "I found experts in this field domestically, because after we married, you never asked anything of me, didn''t even talk much.


    He opened his mouth to exin, he hated beating around the bush the most.


    The awkwardness between them thest few days had instead helped him think through many issues clearly.


    Treating his woman was different from treating work, he couldn''t keep forcing the other side to reveal her hand while he made ns.


    Rong Dai was shocked inside, so he had noticed something off about her so early?


    She had thought she was disguising things pretty well.


    "Others might think it''s because of Zuo Ran that your personality changed so drastically, but I know the personality differences between you and her, although I''m not very familiar with her either."


    Huo Shao Ting exined very seriously, keeping his eyes on her the entire time.


    "I''m not saying these things to get a response from you, just want you to know, my wife is the present you, the present you has given me a new perspective on marriage."


    "You''ve also made me passionate about life again. You don''t have to say anything or exin. When you feel the time is right, when you''re willing to speak, I''m also willing to listen."


    "You need to understand, the present you is a newborn you, don''t be shackled by the past. I also hope you can give yourself a chance to ept me."


    Hearing him speak this way, Rong Dai truly couldn''t help being moved.


    She nced down slightly at his warm palm, and countless thoughts shed through her heart.


    There was a voice at the bottom of her heart, like rays of light breaking throughyers of fog on an overcast day. Her uneasy heart settled down, like a wandering small boat finding a haven from the wind.


    "Okay."


    A few secondster, she raised her head, gaze firm as she looked at him and responded.


    He had already said so much. Although she still couldn''t speak of things from her past life, she believed in the man before her eyes.


    She was also afraid that if she missed an opportunity like this, she would truly regret it for life.


    Whether the heavens were punishing her or not, since she had been given this chance, she had to seize it and try no matter what.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze was deep and gentle. He sped her nape and couldn''t help cing another kiss on her forehead.


    Rong Dai''s heartbeat sped up uncontrobly again, and the tips of her ears along with her cheeks couldn''t help flushing red.


    Fortunately Huo Shao Ting didn''t continue, but devoted his attention to eating.


    Rong Dai knew her own cooking skills, but she hadn''t expected Huo Shao Ting to eat everything up clean.


    She wasn''t too clear on his tastes, so she had made several dishes, dishing out a bit of each.


    "I''m not too clear on your tastes, so I made a few more dishes." She gave a wry smile.


    "My wife''s cooking is good, I like it all."


    Huo Shao Ting''s face was perfectly calm as he spoke. But he had eaten until he was a little stuffed. He paused, then added, "I can''t handle spicy foods, instant noodles and such I also can''t eat, because I damaged my digestive system in the past when I was busily working at thepany and eating randomly."


    He didn''t like beating around the bush. Being direct like this could also save her some overthinking, and they could understand each other faster.


    Rong Dai silentlymitted this to memory. She thought of how the young aunt had fought with him over this issue previously, so his digestive issues must be quite severe.


    It looked like she would have to make more nourishing foods to benefit his digestive system. Bad digestion would negatively impact his health.


    After the meal, Huo Shao Ting brought her to tour the CEO floors.


    "Mei Shu said you didn''t go home much before, so were you living at thepany then?"


    Rong Dai couldn''t help asking him. The Huo Company was extremely wealthy, and this entire highrise was Huo Company''s. This floor was entirely the CEO Huo Shao Ting''s private domain.


    "Mm, I''ll go home to live from now on."


    He grasped her hand, voice light as he responded.


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly turned red. That wasn''t what she meant at all!


    Huo Shao Ting stole another kiss on her cheek in the private elevator.


    "Thepany''s affairs were busy before, and there was nothing worth troubling myself over at home either. Living at thepany was more convenient. But now my home has you, so I''ll go home to live."


    He said gently, which was also a promise of sorts to her.


    Otherwise, with a husband who didn''t return home multiple times a day, what kind of husband was that? A husband was only a husband within one zhang.


    "To facilitate handlingpany matters, I had this floor remodeled into a private living area."


    The two of them exited the elevator, arriving at the top floor of the highrise.


    Compared to the solemnity of the CEO floors below, there was more of a living atmosphere here, but the mood was still rather cold. With one look you could tell this was the residence of someone living alone.

 Chapter 132: The Second Public Prosecution

    <h4>Chapter 132</h4>


    The room was spacious as this entire floor was designated for private use rather than for office purposes, resulting in minimal room arrangements, with most of them interconnected.


    The fitness room and study were well-equipped. Rong Dai had seen the study in Huo Mansion before, and it had an impressive collection of books.


    However, the study was primarily used by Huo Shaoting alone. The rooms of his younger brother and sister-inw were also quiterge. Huo Mansion was expansive, and each person had their own individual room, resembling a small suite, albeit without a kitchen.


    It was quiet here, with two rows of bookshelves neatly disying books. Some of them even hadbels, covering topics ranging from finance and business management to historical literature.


    "Come over here."


    Huo Shaoting led her to the south-facing side of the room.


    There was a massive floor-to-ceiling window that was clean and transparent. Soft carpets and cushions were ced here, with two or three open books nearby.


    Rong Dai stood beside him, following his gaze as they overlooked the entire Shengjing city.


    The feeling was akin to having the world beneath their feet, somewhat reminiscent of when she, as the empress in her past life, ascended the throne and received the court officials'' respectful greetings.


    This elevated sensation was one that no one would dislike.


    "I enjoy sitting here. Just a nce back, and I can see the entire city. It helps me stay alert."


    Huo Shaoting spoke, his handsome face exuding a resolute expression, devoid of the cold and serious facade he showed to others. He had softened considerably.


    "Everyone aspires to be at the top, but only a few trulyprehend the hardship thates with it."


    Rong Dai looked at the towering skyscrapers that appeared minuscule from down below, and the spacious bustling streets that seemed like mere lines, and couldn''t help but sigh.


    "When we''re together, we won''t sumb to the coldness at the top."


    He held her hand and slightly tilted his head, gazing at her cheek.


    After sensing her transformation, he reevaluated his own heart.


    He had asked himself if he couldpromise for the sake of his family''s peace of mind, even if marriage wasn''t a necessity for him.


    Before he met Rong Dai, he could have done it.


    However, what he couldn''t guarantee was that if a woman who truly resonated with his soul appeared in his marriage, he wouldn''t end the rtionship he once believed could continue with mutual respect.


    He was grateful that everything had changed and that he had found such a wife.


    Some people, even with just a glimpse from a distance and a few fleeting days together, could determine each other,mitting to a lifetime.


    For many years, he had restrained himself, adhering to discipline and rigorously demanding of himself.


    As a result, he had a clearer understanding of his goals, needs, and his own heartpared to others.


    Otherwise, Huo Corporation would never have been revived under his leadership.


    "I''m fortunate to have married her, grateful that we haven''t experienced such resonance between us, and thankful that she brought you to my side."


    Huo Shaoting''s voice was soft, each word carrying immense weight.


    A warm feeling welled up in Rong Dai''s heart. Although his exnation wasn''t entirely explicit, she understood his meaning.


    Since she had to go to Jiang Ling''s ce for studying in the afternoon, Rong Dai didn''t stay here for long.


    "Big brother, I will safely send your sister-inw to her destination. Don''t give me that resentful look as if I''m a human trafficker who will abduct her," Huo Mei Shu said, looking at her eldest brother''s reluctant expression, which made her heartache so much that her bones felt weak, prompting her to speak up.


    Rong Dai blushed, and although they had engaged in some intimate activities during their time alone in the top-floor room, they had never taken that final step.


    Being open-minded, Rong Dai didn''t shy away from such topics, and she couldn''t help but sigh and look up at the sky.


    "I will ensure her safety, and perhaps someone special will attend your concert," Huo Shao Ting said indifferently, and Rong Dai noticed the sparkle in Huo Mei Shu''s eyes!


    After delivering her to Jinlou Yuque, Huo Mei Shu left, and she would arrange for a driver to pick her up in the evening.


    With the troublesome matters resolved, Rong Dai felt a pleasant mood and made rapid progress.


    For half a month, Rong Dai shuttled between home, thepany, and Jinlou Yuque, following a strict routine.


    Although it was a bit tiring, the sense of fulfillment made her content.


    Her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting also deepened day by day, and their intimate gestures became natural.


    The person who felt the greatest impact was Zhang Assistant, who was on the verge of tears from being so touched!


    After trailing behind the CEO for ten years, he finally had a nine-to-five job.


    "Madam, would you like some tea? The CEO''s meeting will be over in half an hour," Zhang Assistant eagerly brought the tea, and his smiling face resembled a blooming chrysanthemum.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded, "Thank you, I''m not in a hurry."


    She managed her time well now, andpleting the Bai Shou Tu quilt was not a difficult task for her; she could finish it in two months.


    Moreover, she had learned a lot about acting from Jiang Ling, and she was doing a great job with the tasks assigned by Jiang Ling.


    Her younger brother-inw also kindly analyzed the entire y for her, and shepiled a set of information on designing the costumes for the new drama.


    There were few things that Jiang Ling could teach her now; acting required practical experience, and no amount of talking couldpare to firsthand experience.


    So these days, she followed Jiang Ling around various drama crews in Shengjing, watching ys and listening to operas, significantly reducing her learning time.


    But even so, she insisted on recording her insights every day, which was extremely helpful for her.


    "Today''s meeting is for the purpose of kicking out those bloodsucking troublemakers. It might take a bit longer," Zhang Assistant exined earnestly, despite Rong Dai''s words.


    After all, now that the madam''s rtionship with the CEO had improved, his own life would be easier.


    Rong Dai nodded; Huo Shao Ting had already informed her about thepany''s affairs. Regarding matters rted to her and the Huo family, he had no reason to hide anything.


    "In addition, Wen Corporation has gone bankrupt. The authoritative institution that provided the appraisal report for Miss Wen Shi Lan will be exposed for corruption, bribery, and abuse of power. The appraisal report for Miss Wen will be invalidated and face a second public prosecution," Zhang Assistant pondered for a few seconds and couldn''t help but disclose the inside information to her.


    Having been by the side of the CEO for so many years, he had a good understanding of his thoughts. If the CEO didn''t care about his wife, he wouldn''t have gone through such great lengths.


    As long as it could promote the rtionship between the wife and the CEO, his "betrayal" wouldn''t be a big deal. After all, it was the wife.


    Rong Dai was taken aback. She had never heard Huo Shaoting mention this matter before.


    "In fact, the CEO had already nned these things beforehand. Although the methods were a bit ruthless, the business world is like a battlefield. The Wen family has been relying on a little bit of favor from back then to poach quite a few people from the Huo family."


    "If they hadn''t hurt the wife this time, the CEO wouldn''t have been so furious. That appraisal report was indeed fabricated by people from the Wen family, and the authoritative institutions and relevant inspectors were indeed involved in corruption and bribery."


    "In order to thoroughly investigate these matters and set up this trap for Wen Corporation, the CEO only rested for a maximum of four hours each day."


    Zhang Assistant continued to exin. He knew that the CEO wouldn''t talk about these matters himself, but revealing them would benefit the rtionship between the CEO and his wife.

 Chapter 133: Making a Chance

    <h4>Chapter 133</h4>


    Just as Zhang the assistant said, two days after he told Rong Dai about this news, it was reported in the news.


    The institution was thoroughly investigated, and all involved personnel were prosecuted, awaiting the disaster of imprisonment.


    Mrs. Wen''s enterprise went bankrupt, was taken over by Huo''s Enterprise, and fell off the altar almost overnight, exiting the prosperous business circle of Shengjing, which was really sigh-inducing.


    And with the bankruptcy of Mrs. Wen Group, the involved institutions were also thoroughly investigated, and Wen Shi Lan was bound to be prosecuted again.


    In the tail of August, Shengjing''s hot summer days slipped away, and the results of Wen Shi Lan''s second prosecution came out.


    Five years'' imprisonment.


    Rong Dai knew that this included Huo Shao Ting''s efforts to help, otherwise ording to the normal procedure, it would take at least two to three months to get the results.


    The Wen family disappeared overnight in Shengjing, and even the office building they used to work in was acquired. The past prosperity was gone.


    "It''s deserved! The end of insatiable greed!"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at the news ying on her phone and judged it very refreshingly.


    Rong Dai just smiled lightly. She didn��t know much about business battles.


    But she knew that although the Wen family might have reasons, it was more about the intertwined interests between businesses.


    Because it was Huo Shao Ting who made the move, the Wen family fell apart.


    Because Huo''s Enterprise is currently the emperor of the domestic industry, its position is terrifying. Even some powerfulpanies can only look back at it.


    But that''s all they can do. If they want to ride side by side, unless there is a Huo Shao Ting in theirpany as well.


    The consequence of hard bumping is hurting each other, letting others take advantage.


    Of course, no one is willing to do this kind of making clothes for others.


    Moreover, business emphasizes interests. The Wen family''s fortunes were over, and over the years, they had offended many people as well.


    At this time, being able to sell Huo''s Enterprise a face, why not do it happily?


    Even if Huo''s Enterprise will fall one day, it is still the emperor of the industry now. Who wille to be unhappy?


    It''s easy to add flowers to embroidery, but hard to send charcoal in snow.


    But everyone will kick others when they are down.


    The downfall of the Wen family was obvious.


    "Sister-inw, aren''t you angry with my brother anymore? You two have been inseparable for more than a month, like conjoined twins. Did my brother confess this to you a long time ago?"


    After reading the news, the little sister-inw gossiped and asked her for information again.


    Rong Dai was a little amused. This little sister-inw could ask questions at any time.


    "I knew about it a long time ago, after we reconciled. I was a little angry at the time, thinking he didn''t care about me."


    Rong Dai didn''t hide it and admitted it directly.


    Huo Mei Shu''s face was filled with deep smiles, and she whispered in her ear.


    Rong Dai''s face turned red immediately, and she red at her in annoyance. She underestimated the openness of this little sister-inw.


    The rtionship between her and Huo Shao Ting was indeed getting deeper and deeper. Although she was still concerned about her identity, Huo Shao Ting''s frankness reassured her, and she was willing to take the risk with him.


    Although the two of them had some intimate actions, they still hadn''t taken that step.


    Neither of them was in a hurry. How could the little sister-inw be more anxious than them?


    It was true that the emperor was not in a hurry while the eunuch was in a hurry.


    Huo Mei Shu sighed very helplessly. Seeing her busy in the embroidery room, she didn''t want to disturb her anymore, so she left the room.


    As soon as she left the room, she immediately took out her cell phone and typed out a bunch of words to Jiang Xu''s WeChat "Blue Face".


    The content was simple and shocking, but it was very simple and crude.


    Jiang Xu called back in a few minutes.


    "I''m telling you, young mistress, can you be more reliable? Where can I find this kind of thing for you? Besides, what does your brother need this for? It''s the couple''s business, don''t mess with it, or you might mess things up."


    Jiang Xu felt very speechless. This young mistress really dared to think and do. She actually thought of using that kind of medicine to help Huo Shao Ting and his wife.


    This is something men cannot tolerate! If Huo Shao Ting knew about this, wouldn''t he send this young mistress away early?


    "Then give me an idea. It''s been so long without progress. I''m so anxious!"


    Huo Mei Shu grabbed the phone and went back to her room. Her tone was extremely anxious.


    There was silence on Jiang Xu''s side for a few seconds, and then he said, "You all live together in the Huo residence. This greatly affects the couple. Hasn''t your sister-inw been going to thepany recently to bring meals to President Huo?"


    "I know what to do now!" Huo Mei Shu snapped her fingers, her eyes shining brightly!


    She hung up before Jiang Xu could finish, and then sent out a string of messages to Zhang the Assistant.


    When Zhang the Assistant saw this message, he hesitated at first, and then his eyes lit up when he saw the following messages.


    The president has been in a good mood recently. He feels refreshed and sleeps eight hours every day. There is no gloomy atmosphere from the president. He feels that his life expectancy has increased by two more years.


    Rong Dai didn''t know that the little things she inadvertently revealed were taken so seriously by the little sister-inw, who secretly arranged opportunities for the two behind the scenes.


    She had almost finished learning from Jiang Uncle. Recently Jiang Uncle went to see some friends and didn''t have time to pay attention to her. She had been rushing embroideries at home these days, then meditating on scripts by herself, and going to Huo Shao Ting''spany to bring him meals.


    Although such days were calm, she was very satisfied.


    In the evening, she came out of the embroidery room. Ever since Huo Shao Ting said he would try to get off work early and go home, he hade home at this time for more than half a month.


    But he hadn''te back today, so she asked Mrs. Wang about it.


    Mrs. Wang shook her head: "Young Master didn''t call."


    Rong Dai moved her body and sat under the flower arbor in the yard. Just as she was about to call Huo Shao Ting, she received a call from Zhang the Assistant.


    "Zhang the Assistant, what''s up?"


    "Madam, the president still has some documents to process at thepany tonight. I have booked dinner at thepany and asked Madam to have dinner together tonight. Let me know when it is convenient for Madam, and I wille to pick you up."


    Zhang the Assistant lied without blushing.

 Chapter 134: I鈥檓 Not a Bad Tipper.

    <h4>Chapter 134</h4>


    Rong Dai had no doubts and nced at the clock on the wall. Seeing that it was still early, she asked, "What time is it approximately?"


    "About eight o''clock. There''s been a lot going on at thepany recently," Zhang Assistant replied, risking his life with his answer. After all, if this matter didn''t seed, he would meet his doom.


    Having been by the CEO''s side for so many years, he hade to realize that only the Madam could improve the CEO''s mood.


    When the CEO''s mood improved, they not only had sweets to enjoy but could also live the life they had always dreamt of.


    "In that case, I''ll have the driver at home drop me offter," Rong Dai responded. Although she was married to Huo Shao Ting, and there was no problem with her going to thepany, she still felt some impact. She didn''t want her words and actions to affect thepany or interfere with Huo Shao Ting''s normal work.


    Huo Shao Enterprises had achieved its current sess thanks to Huo Shao Ting''s hard work, and she couldn''t ruin it.


    After all, with the bankruptcy of Wen''s Enterprises, although there weren''t any clickbait media daring to write about it, someizens''ments were very unfriendly.


    They only saw Wen''s family''s support for Huo Shao Ting in the past but ignored how much Wen''s Enterprises had taken from Huo''s family over the years.


    In the business world, there''s only self-interest, no loyalty.


    Huo Shao Ting had already given Wen''s Enterprises enough face with his achievements. But greed knows no bounds, and Wen''s Enterprises, having tasted the sweetness, considered it their due to demand more and more.


    But human nature is strange like that. Seeing Wen''s Enterprises fail, even though they were the ones who had harmed Huo Shao Ting, Huo Shao Enterprises would bebeled as bullies.


    It seemed that they were seen as heartless for not sympathizing with the weak.


    But back then, when Wen Shi Lan knew that releasing Zuo Ran would put her life in danger, she still did it without any hesitation.


    Anyone could me Huo Shao Ting for this matter, but she had to stand by his side.


    So naturally, she had to consider him.


    "Very well, Madam. If you have any requests, feel free to contact me anytime. The CEO is busy and might not be able to answer your calls," Zhang Assistant didn''t say much but subtly reminded her.


    Rong Dai responded and then hung up the phone.


    She had great trust in Zhang Assistant''s words, so she truly didn''t call Huo Shao Ting.


    After hanging up the phone, Zhang Assistant let out a sigh of relief and adjusted his mindset before heading to Huo Shao Ting''s office.


    "CEO, Madam just called and said she''ll join you for dinner tonight."


    Huo Shao Ting was dealing with documents. Hearing Zhang Assistant''s words, he looked up at his wristwatch. It was already the end of work hours.


    Although Wen''s Enterprises had gone bankrupt and been acquired by Huo Shao Enterprises, there were still many matters to handle. He had quite a few things to take care of today.


    He had discussed these matters with Rong Dai before, and she should have remembered them.


    "That''s fine. Bring the remaining files over, and I''ll handle them all together," Huo Shao Ting said without much thought, instructing Zhang Assistant to go downstairs.


    As Zhang Assistant saw him continue to focus on handling the documents, a heavy burden lifted from his heart.


    It was fortunate that he didn''t call Mrs. Huo to inquire, otherwise it would have required even more effort. This Miss really had quite the audacity.


    Both the husband and wife thought the other wanted to have dinner together, so they didn''t think much of it and went about their own business.


    After hanging up the call with Zhang Assistant, Rong Dai received a call from Ji Zheng. It was regarding the assets left by An Feiya.


    Most of the work had already been taken care of within a month''s time.


    After hanging up the phone, she went upstairs to the bedroom, washed her face, tidied up a bit, and changed into a shoulder-revealing long dress.


    "Sister-inw, are you going out?" Huo Meishu asked anxiously, keeping a close eye on her movements.


    Seeing here out in a long dress, looking like she was about to go out, she immediately asked.


    "Yes, I''m going to meet Lawyer Ji. I won''t being back for dinner tonight, so you and Shaojie don''t have to wait for me and Shaoting. Just go ahead and eat," Rong Dai nodded.


    "Oh, I see." Huo Meishu secretly breathed a sigh of relief. She was also worried that these two would make a phone call.


    That would expose everything.


    "There''s too much to handle with the merger of the Wen Corporation. Thank you, sister-inw, for understanding Big Brother," Huo Meishu ttered, feeling guilty.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile wryly. She didn''t do anything, she just went to have a meal, so how did it be her understanding?


    "That''s alright. If there''s nothing else, I''ll leave first," she nced at the time on her wristwatch. It was just a meeting to give some instructions, so she had enough time.


    "Go ahead, go ahead!" Huo Meishu nodded hastily.


    Rong Dai didn''t suspect anything and took a private car to the restaurant where Ji Zheng had arranged to meet. At a nce, she spotted Ji Zheng sitting in a booth.


    The setting sun cast a halo on his handsome and gentle cheeks. This man was also incredibly good-looking, very eye-catching in the crowd.


    "The assets have all been counted. I''ve withdrawn what can be withdrawn, and the profits and losses have been documented. These few projects can''t be withdrawn in the short term," Ji Zheng said as he saw her approach, taking out a thick stack of documents from his briefcase and handing them to her, emphasizing a few investment items.


    "I trust you, Mr. Ji," Rong Dai took a quick nce and didn''t look any further.


    On one hand, she didn''t understand, and on the other hand, Ji Zheng knew Huo Shaoting.


    Even if it was for the sake of Huo Shaoting''s face, he wouldn''t deceive her.


    Moreover, someone like Huo Shaoting didn''t approve of many people.


    If Ji Zheng couldn''t be trusted, Wen Corporation wouldn''t have entrusted him with thepensation matters.


    "You are straightforward, although it''s not sincere, I still like to hear it," Ji Zheng was a discerning person, of course, he knew Rong Dai didn''t believe in him, but in Huo Shaoting.


    "This is all the assets from the withdrawal, the password is six-eight. Excluding these few projects, the total assets amount to 368 million Chinese Yuan."


    He took out a bank card and ced it on the table, handing it over.


    Rong Dai didn''t immediately put away the bank card. Instead, she looked at him and asked, "What about your sry, Mr. Ji?"


    She wasn''t sure how An Feiya had cooperated with Ji Zheng, entrusting such arge sum of assets to an outsider like him. It was inevitable that the price would be very attractive.


    "Miss Rong, are you nning to give me a tip? My tip is not low, you know," Ji Zheng replied, his face wearing a yful and teasing smile.


    Rong Dai, however, answered him seriously, "I''m not very clear about these matters, but I believe Mr. Ji wouldn''t make an exorbitant demand."


    Her words were tactful, and Ji Zheng burst intoughter.

 Chapter 135: Charming and Charming

    <h4>Chapter 135</h4>


    ��Don''t worry, you can just treat me to a meal.��


    Seeing her being so serious, Ji Zheng didn''t tease her further.


    ��I chargedmission fees from Ms. An to handle these assets, a fixed sry wouldn''t satisfy my appetite. I''ve already taken what I should, this is the remainder.��


    Hearing him say this, Rong Dai felt relieved.


    She put away the documents and bank card, and nced at the time on her wristwatch. It was already dark outside.


    ��Thank you.��


    She said and then added after a pause, ��I''m afraid there''s no time to treat Mr. Ji to a meal today. I''ll definitely invite you another day to show my gratitude.��


    Ji Zheng smiled and nodded. The woman married to Huo turned out to be quite interesting, different from other women.


    ��Second brother, what are you doing here?��


    Just as Rong Dai was about to leave, she heard a female voice behind her. She looked back following Ji Zheng''s gaze.


    The other party was wearing an exquisitely embroidered cheongsam, with long hair draped loosely over her shoulders, looking very gentle and graceful.


    She looked a bit familiar. Wasn''t this Shi Ning, the granddaughter of the owner of Jinxiu Silk Shop?


    ��Handling some business. What are you doing here?��


    Ji Zheng answered inly.


    ��Mr. Ji, I''ll get going then.��


    Seeing the siblings seemed to have something to talk about, Rong Dai picked up her bag, preparing to leave.


    ��You are Mrs. Huo, right?��


    Shi Ning''s eyes fell on her. Recently Mrs. Huo had been all over the news headlines, trending every few days. Even if Shi Ning wanted to pretend not to recognize her, it would have been difficult. After all, she had seen her at the shopping mallst time. And during the Wansheng incident, her two partners had offended Mrs. Huo. How could Shi Ning not recognize Rong Dai?


    ��Hello, Miss Shi.��


    Rong Dai didn''t hide her identity, simply nodding her head lightly in greeting.


    ��I''ve heard a lot about you, Mrs. Huo. You are as beautiful as the rumors say. My name is Shi Ning, also called Ji Ning.��


    Shi Ning smiled lightly and simrly nodded back.


    Rong Dai smiled faintly without saying anything more. She naturally knew about those news reports online. There was nothing inappropriate in how the other party addressed her, so she didn''t take it to heart.


    ��Second brother, how do you know her? Did Brother Huo introduce you?��


    After Rong Dai left, Shi Ning sat down and asked him.


    But Ji Zheng stood up, tidying his clothes. He nced at her and spoke inly, ��She is the daughter of my client who came to handle the inheritance. Are you going to tell Mom about this too?��


    With Rong Dai present earlier, he didn''t show his displeasure. Now that she had left, he naturally dropped the pretense.


    ��Second brother, how can I further exin that incident to you? I didn''t mean it, I was just concerned about you.��


    Hearing him say this, Shi Ning immediately widened her eyes, feeling extremely wronged.


    ��I don''t need your concern about my matters.��


    Ji Zheng threw down this cold remark and left.


    Shi Ning''s face turned slightly pale, her fists clenching tightly all of a sudden.


    Rong Dai was oblivious to the discord between the siblings. After leaving the restaurant, she headed to Huo Group.


    Logging in to mobile banking with her phone, she checked the ount bnce of this bank card, and felt slightly relieved in her heart.


    Seeing that the lights in the Huo Group building were still on with many people passing by hurriedly, she went into the tower with her bag.


    She hade to thepany many times before, so the front desk staff recognized her and automatically called the exclusive elevator for the CEO.


    "Madam, the CEO is still handling some documents. Dinner has been sent to the top floor. The CEO asked Madam to wait upstairs for a while."


    Seeing here out of the elevator, Zhang the assistant lied with a very calm expression.


    To prevent the truth from being exposed, he had been waiting here for a long time and was on the verge of a mental breakdown!


    "I see... Then I''ll go up first."


    Rong Dai didn''t suspect anything. Not wanting to disturb Huo Shaoting''s work, she took the elevator up to the top floor.


    After watching Rong Dai go up, Zhang the assistant wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. This was too dangerous!


    When Rong Dai arrived upstairs, the lights in the room were on but not too bright, emanating a lingering ambiguous warmth.


    Her heart skipped a beat as her eyes noticed the exquisite dinner already prepared on the dining table.


    There were candles on the table. Under the candlelight, the red wine looked very beautiful and tempting.


    There were also some full blooming red roses on the table, arranged very romantically.


    Her ears involuntarily turned red. Putting down her bag, she looked around the room. Even the bedding had been changed with red rose petals scattered on the floor and sheets, candles lit, creating an extremely ambiguous atmosphere.


    Rong Dai''s breathing quickened involuntarily. Her blood was boiling.


    Shaoting, could he be wanting to...


    Her heart pounded out of control, her cheeks burning hot. She saw a red strappy silk dress ced on the bed, along with a bottle of perfume.


    She took a deep breath, her palms sweating uncontrobly.


    Was Shaoting implying something?


    Perhaps...perhaps it was okay now.


    She bit her soft lips, her fingertips trembling slightly as she picked up the silk dress and perfume and went into the bathroom.


    In the bathroom, she stared at herself in the mirror, her cheeks as red as rouge, intoxicatingly beautiful. Her eyes also revealed nervousness and a trace of anticipation that she couldn''t restrain.


    Although they had been together only for a short time, she didn''t dare to confirm whether she and Huo Shaoting could really spend their whole lives together.


    But she could see his sincerity and she was willing to give herself to him.


    Her heart also yearned to get closer to him, even closer.


    If physical intimacy was the best medium for their souls to blend and sublimate, she was very willing.


    She had never had such a strong desire even for the Emperor in her previous life.


    She didn''t want to have any regrets.


    She took a few deep breaths, and simply took a bath in the tub.


    She wiped her body dry, applied moisturizer on her skin, blow dried her hair halfway, and sprayed some perfume on her palms and into her hair before blow drying itpletely.


    Her hair had some natural waves. Her skin was fair and delicate. After putting on the dress, the hot vivid color set off her snow white smooth skin even more.


    The dress had straps, and her corbones were very beautiful. Her figure was also very graceful.


    Without such arge, clear mirror in her previous life, looking at herself in the mirror now, the words alluringly charming popped up in her mind uncontrobly.


    Due to some constraints on women and her role as Empress in her previous life, she had never truly examined herself before.


    Looking at herself in the mirror now, she even felt that she had lived her previous life in vain.


    This body of hers was extremely beautiful. She could be dignified when needed, and also be charmfully alluring.


    Thinking of what was going to happen soon, her whole body felt hot and restless, her blood boiling like water.


    She went out and found Huo Shaoting''s suit jacket to put on. Sitting quietly at the dining table waiting for him toe up, her palms were sweating from nervousness. She drank some wine trying to calm herself down.

 Chapter 136: Up in the Air

    <h4>Chapter 136</h4>


    After two sses of red wine, Rong Dai''s nervous emotions finally calmed down a little. When she heard the sound of the elevator door opening, her back suddenly tensed up!


    Her face flushed red, she didn''t dare look towards the door, and her emotions that had just settled down surged up again!


    She didn''t know if it was the alcohol taking effect, but she felt like her whole body was going to catch fire!


    "Wife, did I keep you waiting long? I was handling some business with the Wen Corporation..."


    As soon as Huo Shao Ting came in, he noticed something was off. His words trailed off as his gaze went straight to the dining table.


    Although Rong Dai was wearing his jacket, her skirt wasn''t very long, just reaching her knees, and it had a slit on one side.


    Her legs were slender and straight. Even under the warm yellow light, the bold red color set off her fair and delicate skin, which even faintly shone.


    Huo Shao Ting''s body stiffened as the scalding heat that had been dormant within him for thirty years instantly erupted!


    He had endured and restrained himself for a long time. He didn''t want to force her. He wanted to wait until she was willing.


    "Wife..."


    His deep eyes gradually filled with arousal, and his voice suddenly became low and hoarse amidst the raging boil of his blood.


    Rong Dai had her back to him, but she knew he was looking at her.


    That scorching gaze made her feel like her back and legs were on fire, burning hot.


    "I-I ran a bath for you."


    Rong Dai stammered, her hands gripped tightly together, already damp with sweat.


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing was heavy and urgent. After grunting out a word, his eyes reddened. He loosened his tie with one hand, took off his jacket, and headed barefoot into the bathroom.


    Hearing the water running in the bathroom, Rong Dai grew increasingly nervous and impatient.


    She kept breathing in and out, trying to calm herself down. Although the air conditioner was on in the bedroom, she still felt hot.


    As he bathed in the bathroom, scenes of intimacy between him and Rong Dai continuously shed through Huo Shao Ting''s mind like a rolling jumbotron screen, nearly driving him mad!


    But Huo Shao Ting still carefully shaved his stubble, worried it would scratch her.


    Both their hearts were filled with nervousness, anticipation, and delight.


    Rong Dai kept drinking. After three sses of red wine, the alcohol was making her slightly dizzy, but she hadn''t lost her senses.


    "Wife."


    The man walked out barefoot, a towel wrapped around his waist.


    His physique was well maintained. His abs and obliques were very distinct. Beads of water rolled down his muscr contours, extremely tempting.


    He gave off a unique masculine aura that drew her closer.


    Rong Dai''s body tensed up. She turned to look at him awkwardly and shyly took off the jacket she was wearing.


    Because of the alcohol, her gaze at him was full of anticipation, tinged with some haziness.


    This kind of look made Huo Shao Ting extremely delighted. This skirt suited her very well.


    The bright color set off her fair skin dazzlingly.


    "Rong Dai..."


    His voice was hoarse as he scooped her up in his arms. Rong Dai''s face burned crimson red. She proactively put her arms around his neck, and in the next moment, Huo Shao Ting''s kisses poured down like rain.


    The soft bed sank, scattering the flower petals. The candle mes swayed...


    A night of passionate entanglement allowed Rong Dai to experience the beauty and joy when two people were aroused. Reaching the peak with him gave her a feeling of shyness and satisfaction.


    It was as if her soul and body werepletely filled, very full.


    But the price was that when she woke up the next morning, in addition to the soreness in her body, there were almost markings all over.


    She was extremely embarrassed, curling up under the thin nket, side-eying the man next to her. The morning lighting in through the curtains fell on his chest, making her heart thump wildly for no reason!


    "Awake?"


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly opened his eyes and reached over to pull her into his embrace.


    The wonderful madness ofst night had simply made him delirious. The deeply prating feeling lingered in his bones and soul.


    Looking at the soft person in his arms, his heart was also very content.


    For the first time, he felt his life could have another meaning.


    Although the two were married in name, such intimate skin contact made both their souls tremble.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze at her became scorching again, and his reaction below was obvious.


    Rong Dai''s face went bright red, shock in her eyes. Before she could speak, he had sealed her lips, and she was immersed in the storm again in the next moment.


    When she woke up, Huo Shao Ting was no longer by her side, and it was already evening.


    She was so sore she felt like she would fall apart.


    In her past life, she had experienced this before, but she had never felt such thorough, soul-piercing pleasure.


    She couldn''t help smiling, thinking of the madness between them that night. Her cheeks burned with waves of heat, like hot shes.


    "You''re awake. Eat something first. You didn''t eat dinnerst night."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice rang out. Wearing only a robe, he was sitting on the sofa working on documents.


    Seeing her awake, he put down hisptop and walked over to her.


    "You... restrain yourself a bit, Shao Ting."


    Seeing him approach wearing nothing under his robe, she was so frightened she immediately clutched the nket tightly.


    Unlike her past life where the emperor already had several concubines before marrying her and was rather indifferent to her in the bedroom, she had thought that was normal.


    Now it seemed far from normal.


    From chatting with her sister-inw these days, she learned that this guy had never had a woman by his side, and had been alone for thirty years.


    She couldn''t handle the passion of this man who had just tasted intimacy.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her tenderly and indulgently, such tenderness that could practically be wrung out.


    He smiled lightly and reached out to tidy her hair. Although he wasn''t satisfied yet, he would restrain himself. He knew her physical limits.


    "I won''t. Get up and eat something first. I had Mrs. Wang stew some pigeon soup and bring it over. Drinking it now, the temperature is just right."


    He said gently, already reaching under the nket to pull her out.


    Rong Dai let out a cry, hurriedly putting her arms around his neck. Her face was bright red.


    She then realized she was already wearing a nightgown, feeling the cleanliness of her body. She knew this man was truly attentive to the core.


    She no longer acted coy, andfortably enjoyed Huo Shao Ting''s service.


    After breaking through this barrier, the feelings between them seemed to be even more intense. Some indescribable connection tightly bound the two together.


    "Rest a while longer. I''ll go downstairs to take care of some meetings. Let''s go out to eat tonight, okay?"


    After helping her finish the soup, and eating a small bowl of lean pork congee,


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead and carried her back to bed, asking gently.


    Rong Dai was indeed still very tired, so she nodded, closing her eyes and falling asleep again.

 Chapter 137: Will It Change

    <h4>Chapter 137</h4>


    "You''re just a young girl, interfering with your elder brother and sister-inw''s affairs. If this was ancient times, your reputation would have stunk long ago," Jiang Xu said to Huo Mei Shu, who was sipping coffee with her eyes closed enjoying it, feeling a bit exasperated.


    Huo Mei Shu nced at him, in a very good mood, and said somewhat coquettishly, "I''m happy to!"


    She was genuinely delighted that her sister-inw''s rtionship with her brother had improved.


    But these two hadn''t even broken through that kind of intimate barrier yet, so her heart was still hanging.


    This time she had painstakingly created an opportunity for the two of them.


    They hadn''te backst night or been seen today either.


    This morning her brother had even called to have Wang Ma stew pigeon soup and deliver it over, so she knew things had worked out.


    The huge weight pressing down on her heart could finally be released.


    After breaking through this barrier in their rtionship, she believed her brother and sister-inw''s feelings would definitely grow even better. As long as her brother was happy, she could rx.


    Jiang Xu was very tactful and didn''t continue talking about this matter, as after all it was the Huo family''s business, especially Huo Shao Ting''s personal affairs.


    "How''s your music recitaling along?" he changed the topic.


    "It''s fine. I''ve already selected the songs and booked the venue. I handed over the other misceneous tasks to the event nningpany. I just need to send out the invitations and I''ll be good to go," Huo Mei Shu said somewhat absentmindedly.


    "Wasn''t this something you had always wanted to do? Why don''t you seem happy about it?"


    Jiang Xu was attentive and upon noticing something off with her, asked this.


    "It''s nothing. I''m just thinking about the clothing."


    Huo Mei Shu put down her cup and looked at the neon lights outside. Her mood was a bit irritable.


    Her brother and sister-inw''s issue was resolved, but her own issue still wasn''t.


    A sh of anomaly passed through Jiang Xu''s eyes. He understood her so well, how could he not know what she was feeling irritable about?


    "I''m going back first."


    Huo Mei Shu grabbed her bag and immediately left. She was only holding this private musical recital because she wanted to see that person.


    But she knew that person''s temperament. He probably wouldn''te to a private recital like this.


    ...


    Rong Dai slept from afternoon until night, and her vital energy finally recovered a bit.


    When she woke up, Huo Shao Ting still hadn''te upstairs yet. Clean clothes had already been prepared for her on the nearby sofa.


    Her whole body ached and felt very ufortable. Rong Dai hadn''t expected they would be so wildly passionate.


    Her heart was both sweet and a little shy. After crawling out of bed, she simply washed up and changed into the clothes.


    The clothes conveniently covered all the marks on her body, but there was no helping the few ces on her neck.


    Rong Dai was a little resentful. She could only let her long hair down. Luckily it was nighttime, so unless someone stared closely at her neck, they wouldn''t notice.


    Looking at the messy bed, her ears couldn''t help flushing red again. She decided to change the bedding to fresh sheets.


    When she opened the closet, she saw that in addition to Huo Shao Ting''s clothes, she also had a lot of her own clothes inside now.


    This warmth spread through her heart, and she couldn''t help smiling lightly.


    "What are you smiling about?"


    She didn''t know when Huo Shao Ting hade upstairs. He embraced her waist from behind, and his lips followed tond on her soft hair.


    Rong Dai had been a little nervous at first, but then rxed, leaning against him very reassured.


    Although it was just intimacy between a married couple, it had brought more tenderness to each of their hearts, and their feelings grew even more intense.


    Rong Dai had a faint smile on her face, but it was very gentle.


    It seemed that afterst night''s passion, her transformation from girl to woman had given her some unique feminine charm.


    "Are you nning to treat this ce as home now?"


    She had said this casually, but Huo Shao Ting took it seriously.


    Perhaps they should have a little home of their own.


    A small home that belonged just to her and himself. In the future, there would also be their children.


    Just imagining that scene caused Huo Shao Ting''s heart to tremble lightly.


    He turned her body around to face him. Looking at the woman before him, he couldn''t express the tenderness in his heart with words. This woman was like she had seeped into his marrow, imprinting deeply on his soul.


    He held her, his deep eyes looking at her very seriously: "Rong Dai, we can have a little home."


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, her gaze meeting his.


    She understood the implication behind his words.


    "Mm," she murmured softly, leaning against his sturdy chest and listening to his strong, forceful heartbeat.


    Perhaps she really could gain such happiness.


    "Oh right, there''s one thing I have to take care of."


    Rong Dai suddenly remembered that 2 billion debt and hurriedly went to grab her bag from him.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her puzzled, and followed along.


    Rong Dai breathed a long sigh of relief holding the bank card.


    "Sit down and talk."


    Huo Shao Ting considerately sat down on the sofa himself but wanted to pull Rong Dai to sit on hisp.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed, but she didn''t have that intense shyness from before.


    Holding the bank card, she looked at him solemnly: "Shao Ting, do you still remember the 2 billion debt I mentioned before?"


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. He didn''t care about these things. She was his wife. He earned money precisely so their quality of life could be better.


    "Perhaps right now I still can''t admit some things to you, or say more about certain matters."


    Rong Dai had a grave expression. She still couldn''t reveal her former identity to Huo Shao Ting right now.


    "I understand. This is good. Like I said, whenever you feel like talking about it in the future, it won''t be toote. And if you don''t want to talk about it, that''s fine too."


    "What I love is who you are now."


    Someone as astute as Huo Shao Ting, how could he not understand this issue?


    He held her, and his slightly cool lips kissed the back of her hand gently. His voice was very gentle as he answered her.


    "I''m not being melodramatic. It''s just, for me, this is an ending as well as a new beginning."


    Rong Dai spoke softly, looking at him with great sincerity in her eyes.


    "It''s the end between you and her, and the beginning between you and me."


    What she said was actually equivalent to indirectly admitting to Huo Shao Ting what he had sensed.


    Someone as intelligent as Huo Shao Ting naturally understood the implication.


    His heart was shocked, and also a little panicked.


    Since she coulde into his life, might she suddenly leave one day and be reced by the other one again?


    His expression suddenly changed. He held Rong Dai tighter unconsciously.


    "Shao Ting..."


    "I''m just nervous and afraid. What if you two switch ces again someday? What would I do to find you?"


    Hearing her voice, Huo Shao Ting hurriedly asked anxiously.


    The unease and panic in his eyes were very clear to Rong Dai.


    She hadn''t considered this issue before. After all, she had seen the original owner in her dreams.


    Her face also turned a little pale. She didn''t want to return to the abyss again.

 Chapter 138: His Blood Is Fresh

    <h4>Chapter 138</h4>


    "I... I don''t know either."


    Rong Dai''s heart was also filled with trepidation after hearing Huo Shao Ting''s words.


    Since she and the original owner were able to switch souls, would they switch back again one day?


    For a moment, her mind was in turmoil, and the joy and anticipation for the future between them vanished in an instant like ashes.


    Panic and unease enveloped her like cold tidal waters.


    Huo Shao Ting did not expect that his simple question would startle her so much.


    "Don''t worry, as long as you exist, I will find a way to find you."


    It seemed they would have to let Huang Expert continue researching this matter.


    Rong Dai''s face turned pale, and it took her a long time to calm down.


    Huo Shao Ting held her tightly. His unease was no less than hers.


    It was not until Zhang Assistant knocked on the door that Rong Dai gradually came back to her senses. She looked at Huo Shao Ting with veryplicated eyes, full of anxiety.


    If it were not for the feelings between them, even if she really returned to that cold pce one day, she would just go back.


    But Huo Shao Ting was here now. This man had entered her heart.


    "It''s alright. I''m here. Nothing will happen, okay? Let''s go eat now."


    Huo Shao Ting cupped her face and kissed her lightly, then raised his hand to tidy her hair. His voice was gentle and his gaze earnest and resolute as he looked at her.


    Rong Dai knew that even if this did happen one day, there was nothing she could do. Such bizarre events were inexinable to anyone.


    She held Huo Shao Ting''s hand tightly, trying to suppress the unease in her heart.


    The couple went to the restaurant. Rong Dai rxed a lot more. She knew worrying was useless.


    Since this was the case, she should cherish every moment with him.


    "The Chinese food here is very good. You''ll probably like it."


    Huo Shao Ting led her over and thoughtfully pulled out a chair for her. After she sat down, he took the seat across from her.


    Rong Dai looked around. The d��cor here was ssical, just the way she liked it.


    "This ce is nice."


    She smiled lightly and nodded. She appreciated his thoughtfulness and didn''t want to disappoint him.


    After the couple finished their meal, Rong Dai leaned on his shoulder. They could hear each other''s steady breaths clearly.


    "Shao Ting, what''s your bank ount number?"


    She was still thinking about the 2 billion yuan.


    Huo Shao Ting was a bit exasperated. He asked her to give him her bank card and called Zhang Assistant to handle it.


    In just a few minutes, they both received a text message on their phones that it was done.


    When Rong Dai saw the string of digits, she didn''t feel distressed. On the contrary, she felt relieved, as if a huge invisible burden had been lifted off her shoulders.


    "What are you doing?"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting on his phone not knowing what he was up to, she asked and leaned in closer to see his screen.


    "Making you my bodhi seeds..."


    Rong Dai was startled when she saw the Weibo username.


    "I want to be the bodhi seeds in your heart."


    Huo Shao Ting turned to look at her affectionately and gently said, unable to resist nting a light peck on her lips.


    "How did you know about that?"


    Rong Dai was no fool. With what he just said, how could she not understand?


    "If I want to know something, I''ll naturally find out."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly in reply. She saw that among the ounts he followed, hers was the only one. And this ount of his was newly registered.


    Now it was her turn to be exasperated.


    They say people in the throes of love are fools, and this saying really wasn''t false.


    She hadn''t expected the esteemed CEO Huo Shao Ting to do such seemingly childish things.


    But she knew this was this man''s way of expressing his feelings for her.


    Her gaze grew somewhat blurry, and there was a trace of slyness in it, filled with satisfaction. She moved closer to his cheek and nted a kiss there.


    Although the two were already quite intimate, her heart still raced and she still felt as sweet as honey when taking the initiative to do this.


    Huo Shao Ting took a picture of their sped hands and added the 2 billion yuan screenshot,piling a string of words: My life is yours, wife''s betrothal gift.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly looking at it: "A 2 billion yuan betrothal gift to marry you, a big CEO, seems a bit of a loss for me."


    "Not at all. I''m the one who gained more."


    Seeing her radiant smile, Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened to a syrupy sweetness.


    The couple didn''t linger outside for long before returning to the Huo residence.


    "Rong Dai is back! Hurry ande try this. I just brought this bird''s nest back from overseas. It''s great for women!"


    They had just changed their shoes when Lu Zheng walked out from the kitchen beaming, a bowl of bird''s nest in her hands. She happily ced it on the dining table and came over to her.


    "Mom? When did youe back? Why didn''t you tell us toe pick you up?"


    Seeing her mother-inw at home, Rong Dai was surprised. She looked puzzledly at Huo Shao Ting as her mother-inw pulled her over to the dining table to sit down.


    "We have drivers at home. Having them drive back and forth is too much trouble. I just got home today. Quick, try this bird''s nest and tell me how it is!"


    Lu Zheng looked at her with warmth and satisfaction in her eyes, as well as thick concern. Her gaze kept sweeping over her neck.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed red. She suddenly thought of something and hurriedly covered her neck with her hand.


    Mother-inw must have found out about what happened between her and Shao Tingst night.


    "Mom, I..."


    "Mom understands, mom understands everything. Mom has been through this too. How could I not understand? There''s nothing to be ashamed about. Nowadays, isn''t open-mindedness advocated?"


    Lu Zheng smiled amiably sitting next to her. Rong Dai''s face was burning hot.


    This was just...too awkward.


    "Shao Ting is young and vigorous. You''re too thin and must eat more to nourish your body. As long as you two are well, I''ll feel at ease."


    Lu Zheng smiled and gently patted her shoulder.


    "I''m going upstairs to rest now. Rushing back on a ne is quite tiring."


    Seeing her embarrassed red face, Lu Zheng''s smile didn''t diminish. What she cared about wasn''t the issue of having grandchildren.


    Rather, it was that her eldest son could truly be happy and blessed. Only then would she feel at ease.


    "Shao Ting, you have to be considerate of Rong Dai and not act on your own impulses, understand?"


    Before going upstairs, Lu Zheng solemnly and sternly reminded Huo Shao Ting. The implication was clear to both of them.


    Rong Dai''s face was as red as a ripe tomato. Even the enthusiastic mother-inw was too much for her to handle!


    She suddenly missed how her mother-inw had been neither cold nor warm to her when she first arrived.


    That would have been so much better!


    This was too awkward now!


    "Mm." Huo Shao Ting gave a light murmur of assent, loosening his tie as he went to sit next to Rong Dai.


    "You just ate. Don''t force yourself to drink it if you don''t want to. Let it be. She''s just like this."


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly. Of course she understood her mother-inw''s good intentions.


    Love breeds love after all. She understood that principle.


    "It''s fine. Mom rushed back on a ne. This is her way of caring. I understand what she means, so don''t be nervous."


    She had been through this before. How could she not understand these things?

 Chapter 139: Their Little Home

    <h4>Chapter 139</h4>


    After eating bird''s nest, the couple went upstairs, although Rong Dai still felt very tired after sleeping for an afternoon.


    She took a towel, preparing to take a bath in the bathroom, when Huo Shao Ting came out from the dressing room with a towel wrapped around him.


    "Together."


    He said softly as he hugged her. Rong Dai''s face instantly turned red.


    She was a little overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness and gentleness, but she was really tired and didn''t want to move a finger more, so she just nodded and let him take her into the bathroom.


    It took them an hour after the two had bathed before Rong Dai, curled up under the quilt, looked at Huo Shao Ting resentfully.


    This guy had promised his mother-inw nicely downstairs just now, didn''t he?


    When they bathed just now, he ate her up again.


    "Let me give you a massage."


    Huo Shao Ting said softly, and his warm palms had already reached under the quilt.


    "Shao Ting, I...I''m a little sore, let me rest."


    Rong Dai had to beg for mercy. If this continued, she wouldn''t be able to recover for several days.


    Huo Shao Ting whispered to her, "No more."


    Then he hugged her in his arms, and gently massaged her lower back. Rong Dai closed her eyes and rxed, gradually falling asleep.


    Looking at Rong Dai sleeping soundly in his arms, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help kissing her forehead, then tiptoed out of bed and went to the desk to deal with some things.


    Just by asking tonight, not only was he panicked, but Rong Dai was also frightened.


    That is to say, this matter was unknown.


    Zhang Assistant was about to mess around with his wife, but was spoiled by several messages from Huo Shao Ting.


    "What''s wrong? Didn''t you say Boss Huo is in a good mood recently? He hasn''t made you work overtime during this period."


    Mrs. Zhang leaned against his back and asked.


    Zhang Assistant sighed helplessly: "I don''t know what''s going on either. The president is like a stone now that he can''t get along with. Last time he called in experts to investigate, spent 50 million in a few days and then didn''t use them anymore. Now he wants me to have experts continue researching."


    "Is it that piece of ink jade? It looks good, but it��s a pity that it��s a dead man��s thing."


    Mrs. Zhang said casually, but made Zhang Assistant''s eyes light up.


    He had been with Huo Shao Ting for ten years. The origin of this piece of ink jade was a bit special. It had the name of the madam on it.


    What the president wanted to investigate was not this piece of ink jade, it should be about the madam.


    He was a professional security officer. Before working for the president, some of his previous employers had also encountered some strange things.


    Although this is the scientific age, there are still some things that science cannot yet exin.


    Although the president didn''t say it, he could guess some things, and the madam''s change was huge, she was not the same person before and after.


    After reading the message, Zhang Assistant was in no hurry to contact Huang Expert.


    He knew that some things were very scary once made public. The president had shown him kindness, so he felt it inappropriate to find Huang Expert about this matter.


    Looking at the delicate wife in front of him, he had an idea in mind. After a round of lovemaking, he got what he wanted, and he also had an idea of how to help the president deal with this matter.


    Rong Dai slept very soundly that night and woke up refreshed in the morning.


    As usual, Huo Shao Ting was not by her side. She looked at the time, got out of bed to wash up, then went downstairs to the kitchen.


    "Madam, why don''t you sleep a little longer?"


    When Mrs. Wang saw here in, she looked at her in surprise.


    "I''ve had enough sleep. Let me make breakfast, Mrs. Wang please help me."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. Although it was a little awkward, she liked this kind of harmonious family atmosphere.


    Not long after she started making breakfast, Huo Shao Ting came downstairs from upstairs and walked to her side. Mrs. Wang smiled, very tactfully retreating.


    "Feeling better?"


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her from behind and kissed her hair lightly, asking softly.


    Rong Dai''s ear tips flushed slightly. She turned her head and red at him coquettishly while patting his hand once, "Give me a hand to serve breakfast."


    The corners of Huo Shao Ting''s mouth turned up, unable to conceal the smile in his eyes, "Yes, madam."


    The couple served breakfast on the table. Mother-inw, sister-inw and brother-inw had juste downstairs.


    "Sister-inw, good morning!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s smile was radiant, and the look in her eyes was meaningful.


    Rong Dai felt embarrassed. After Lu Zheng red at Huo Mei Shu, she obediently sat down to have breakfast.


    As the family sat down for breakfast, it would be perfect if grandma was there too.


    "Shao Ting, Rong Dai, there''s something I want to discuss with you."


    Halfway through breakfast, Lu Zheng looked at the two of them and suddenly spoke seriously.


    Rong Dai was puzzled. After ncing at Huo Shao Ting, she put down her chopsticks, "Mom, what is it, please tell me."


    It couldn''t be that she was urging them to have a baby, could it?


    Although she and Shao Ting didn''t take precautions, she didn''t object to having a child either, but it depended on destiny, not something she could have just because she wanted to.


    In her previous life, she didn''t have the fate to be a mother. She was certainly willing to have her own children with Huo Shao Ting.


    "Now that you two get along well, and there are many people living at home, it��s not convenient for you. "


    Lu Zheng said, and Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie also stopped to look at her.


    "I think this way, you and Shao Ting should buy your own house outside, and juste back to live one night on Saturdays. You are married now, and should focus on your own small family. I asked your grandma, and she agrees for you to move out and live outside, but you muste back to live once a week on Saturday or Sunday. "


    Rong Dai didn''t expect her mother-inw to be talking about this.


    Yesterday Shao Ting also told her that he wanted to have their own little home, which made her happy, but she knew that the more aristocratic the family, the less likely it was for the children to move out.


    But her mother-inw took the initiative to bring it up.


    This mother-inw really cared about her son. She just wanted Huo Shao Ting to live well, and restrained herself from interfering in many things.


    "I think Capital Mansion is great. It��s close to the old house and convenient for big brother to go to thepany. Although it��s expensive, I think big sister-inw will definitely like it there!"


    Although reluctant, because this sister-inw''s cooking skills were first-ss, Huo Mei Shu also knew that big brother had worked so hard for so many years, and it was time for him to have his own private space.


    He and big sister-inw should have a small home with just the two of them.


    "Shao Ting, what do you think?" Lu Zheng asked.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the three of them helplessly. He had originally wanted to surprise Rong Dai, but it was punctured so early in the morning.


    "I made an appointment to see the house. It��s in Capital Mansion. I originally wanted to surprise Rong Dai."


    "I''m just thinking for you!" Lu Zheng felt a little wronged. This eldest son was not only smart but also thoughtful, making it difficult for those around him to do him favors.


    "Mom, thank you."


    Rong Dai spoke at the right time, looking at her mother-inw very sincerely: "I will take good care of Shao Ting, don''t worry."


    Lu Zheng cheered up again, nodded satisfactorily: "As long as you are well, I will be happy. Hurry up and eat breakfast."

 Chapter 140: Surprise From My Mother-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 140</h4>


    After breakfast, Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu went out to run some errands. Lu Zheng was very happy that her eldest son and daughter-inw were getting along so well. She also went out happily to meet with her olddy friends.


    "Aren''t you going to work today?"


    Seeing everyone leaving to take care of their own business, Rong Dai was about to go upstairs to do embroidery when she noticed Huo Shao Ting had not yet gone out.


    "Work is not urgent. House hunting is the top priority - I''ve already set up appointments."


    Huo Shao Ting took her hand, gazing at her tenderly and indulgently. He really didn''t want to leave her side for a moment.


    "Is it necessary to rush it so much?"


    Rong Dai was a little surprised that he had already made arrangements after his mother had just mentioned it.


    "It''s very necessary. That will be our home."


    Huo Shao Ting said very seriously.


    Rong Dai couldn''t argue with him. Although she liked this harmonious family atmosphere, she didn''t really want the family to see through their intimate life every time.


    The couple then drove to Huafu Hill City. The manager and interior designer were already waiting, along with Zhang Assistant.


    The manager gave a very detailed introduction, covering almost everything.


    "How much per square foot?"


    Rong Dai nodded. The environment here was indeed good, better than Jinlou Yuque.


    It was a private courtyard vi in Huaxia garden style. But thendscaping in theplex was very mature, with ancient trees, high walls, windingnes and secluded paths, as well as a living brook where colored carps could be seen swimming.


    The railings, steps, stone bs, and pirs were all very ssical and had an oriental Huaxia vor.


    It was tranquil amidst the hustle and bustle, and also upied a prime location in Huaxia, so the price must be steep.


    The manager was slightly surprised and subconsciously nced at Huo Shao Ting.


    Could it be that the Huo family wascking money to buy a house? With the Huo''s wealth, they could buy up this whole neighborhood.


    But since Rong Dai asked this way, she must have her own reasons.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was calm as he blinked his eyes. The manager understood and quickly smiled, "The listing price is 320,000 yuan, but Mr. Huo is a valued long-time customer of ourpany, so we can give a discount on that price."


    Even though Rong Dai was used to seeing precious objects in her previous life, when she heard this price she still couldn''t help but inwardly gasp.


    She was no longer the newly arrived Queen. She now understood the currency of this time.


    Based on this price, the vi was nearly 4,000 square feet, which was worth nearly 10 billion yuan!


    Even the Huo family''s old residence wasn''t worth that much!


    She knew the Huo family was wealthy, and 10 billion was not a small expenditure, but with just the two of them as husband and wife, they didn''t need that much space.


    For the two of them, all that really mattered was one bed.


    In her previous life she had been the Queen, andcked nothing. No matter how extravagant, she had enjoyed it.


    And it was precisely because she had experienced it all that now her requirements were not high. All she needed was to livefortably.


    "Shao Ting, can we look somewhere else? There''s no need for so much space for just the two of us."


    In her previous life as Queen, she had been surrounded by crowds wherever she went, so even living alone in such arge pce she wouldn''t feel deserted.


    But now there were only the two of them, Huo Shao Ting and herself. Such arge ce, even though the environment was good, was unnecessary.


    Mother-inw had first suggested it, but 10 billion yuan was no small expenditure.


    The atmosphere in the Huo family had just eased, and she didn''t want buying a house to make the rtionships rigid again.


    The manager was slightly surprised. He had seen many wives from wealthy families who, as long as their husbands were willing to pay, wished for bigger and bigger spaces.


    This Mrs. Huo was interesting, actually finding the ce too spacious?


    Seeing the couple about to speak, he tactfully led the designer aside and waited. His phone suddenly vibrated.


    The manager quickly answered, because thepany had prepared Huo Shao Ting''s appointment in advance. Although Rong Dai''s reputation had been rising sharply in Shengjing recently, in the eyes of outsiders, Rong Dai had just married into a wealthy family and was transformed into a golden phoenix.


    Early this morning, Huo Shao Ting''s newly registered ount had been dug up, and Rong Dai was again a trending topic.


    Rong Dai didn''t take this to heart. She didn''t pay attention to such things, but she couldn''t control what others said and did.


    The manager on the phone showed more and more astonishment, and his gaze towards Rong Dai changed, revealing incredulity and even more respect.


    "Mrs. Huo, there is one thing I need to confirm with you."


    The manager hung up and revealed a professional smile. His voice was gentle as he spoke.


    Rong Dai turned her head to look at him and nodded, "Please go ahead."


    The manager nced at Huo Shao Ting, then took out a tablet from his briefcase and opened several documents just sent by thepany.


    "It''s like this - thepany just sent over these purchase contracts. Ms. An previously bought a vi here. Because she was one of the first buyers, she got an especially good location."


    "Ms. An paid the full amount upfront in one lump sum, but after so many years she hasn''te to do any renovations. I''ve only been with thepany a few years so I''m not too clear about this matter. I sincerely apologize."


    "Why don''t you and Mr. Huo go take a look?"


    Although he couldn''t make this sale anymore, the manager was very clear that offending Huo Shao Ting was out of the question.


    And if he provided considerate service, even if this sale didn''t go through, there would still be other business opportunities in the future.


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment, feeling somewhat surprised.


    She tried to recall that there were indeed several property deeds in her name in the Huaxia head office treasury.


    Those were all assets An Feiya had umted for her daughter. Rong Dai had her own worries at the time and didn''t pay much attention to the real estate.


    Now hearing the manager''s words, she was greatly shocked.


    This An Feiya was really unexpected!


    A 10 billion yuan vi purchased just like that!


    Rong Dai thought of those title deeds in the safe deposit box and couldn''t help but secretly inhale. At the same time she also felt very regretful.


    Such a capable woman as An Feiya was actually killed by a petty crook like Zuo Ran.


    These two were clearly unrted. It could only be said it was the vicissitudes of life.


    Otherwise with An Feiya''s formidable money-making abilities, she would have had ample resources to groom the original owner into a proud daughter of heaven.


    "Shao Ting, shall we go take a look?" Rong Dai looked at him and asked.


    Huo Shao Ting pressed his lips together. This never-met mother-inw really surprised him!


    He nodded, and the couple followed the manager to the vi.


    An Feiya had excellent taste in choosing the location, right in the best spot at the center of the viplex.


    It afforded a view of the entire vi neighborhood while also overlooking therge natural woods behind. The air was extremely fresh.


    The vi was still bare concrete, but the courtyard and surrounding greenery were maintained by the property management. It looked very secluded and tranquil.


    Rong Dai liked it at first nce.


    An Feiya dearly loved this daughter, it was just a pity that because of Zuo Ran, mother and daughter grew further and further apart, even to the point that their lives diverged.


    Otherwise, with An Feiya''s formidable money-making prowess, she would have had ample resources to groom the original owner into a proud daughter of heaven.

 Chapter 141: Our Home

    <h4>Chapter 141</h4>


    "Shao Ting, why don''t we just renovate this ce?"


    She turned her head and asked Huo Shao Ting in a soft voice.


    Although she felt a little sorry for An Feiya and her daughter, after all, the assets left behind by An Feiya were considerable.


    She was a little shocked when she first came, but at least she was not penniless.


    However, in her previous life, she had only left the original owner that cold pce, those embroideries, and some treasured jewelry.


    Although they were also valuable, money was not omnipotent in the pce.


    What''s more, she was already considered a deposed empress, and no longer had the authority of an empress in the harem.


    If the original owner had really exchanged lives with her, the original owner would have had a hard time in the cold pce.


    She felt a little guilty in her heart, but this house was already here, and she could not always be affected in this way or that.


    She considered the 2 billion given to Huo Shao Ting as severing all ties between the original owner''s mother and daughter and everything here.


    "Okay."


    Huo Shao Ting gently agreed, and came up to wrap her slender hand in his warm palm.


    "Does Mr. and Mrs. Huo need to consider renovation now? Li Cong was one of the designers of Huafu Hill City. His works in the industry are very good."


    The manager was good at business, and immediately introduced the designer over.


    This was also arranged by thepany. Li Cong was originally going to retire, but he had put his heart into Huafu Hill City, so he asked thepany for this opportunity.


    Who in Shengjing didn''t know Huo Shao Ting''s reputation?


    He was very happy to be able to design a house for such a tasteful person.


    "Hello, Mrs. Huo, Mr. Huo, I''m Li Cong, one of the designers of Huafu Hill City."


    Li Cong was in his forties, but was dressed very elegantly, with an inherent schrly grace.


    Rong Dai politely nodded, and they went into the vi together to listen to some of his design concepts.


    Huo Shao Ting was focused on Rong Dai''s preferences throughout.


    "Shao Ting, this is our home. You can''t just cater to my preferences. If you feel ufortable, I don''t mind transferring half of the house payment to my ount."


    Rong Dai looked at him helplessly and joked.


    Unexpectedly, Huo Shao Ting smiled wickedly, and kissed her forehead lightly with his lips.


    "Since my wife has given me a bride price, I''m set as the son-inw."


    He didn''t mind this, but this house was left to that person by An Feiya.


    The meaning of home was very important to him.


    Rong Dai didn''t miss the change in his expression, how could someone as perceptive as her not guess what he was thinking?


    "Manager, are there other vis in the vi district? I think it would be better for us to buy a new one."


    She looked at the manager and asked.


    She understood what he meant. The meaning of home was also different for her.


    The manager was very surprised, but there was no reason not to make a sale.


    "Yes, Huafu Hill City has a total of 66 buildings, and now there are only 3 left. If Mrs. Huo doesn''t mind the trouble, you cane take a look with me."


    "When Huafu Hill City was built, it was based on the terrain. Because of the existence of this living water stream, and therge area of natural forest, these were all ready-made, so some vis have slightly different areas."


    "Of the remaining three, one is a little more secluded, but upies the high point of Huafu Hill City. Another one has a rtively small area, and the other one is thergest, bigger than the one under your name."


    The manager immediately started exining.


    Rong Dai nodded, turned her head to look at Huo Shao Ting, "Shao Ting."


    Huo Shao Ting''s deep eyes were full of gentle colors. Feeling her thoughtfulness, his heart softened even more.


    The couple then followed the manager to see the remaining three vis, and finally settled on thergest one.


    Thergest one had a courtyard of 1,000 square meters alone, and the living area was 4,000 square meters, a 5,000 square meter stand-alone vi.


    "China now has very strict controls on the construction of stand-alone vis. Vis like this may not exist in the future, especially in Shengjing."


    The manager exined very carefully, afraid that Rong Dai would change her mind again.


    Rong Dai sighed in her heart. She was born into nobility in her previous life, and eventually became the empress. Naturally, she didn''t feel the power of money and valuables. After all, the pces were all ready-made.


    Now she understood that man can die for wealth, as birds die for food, this saying waspletely true.


    After the house was finalized, it was handed over to Zhang Assistant and the manager to handle. What was left was the interior design.


    Because they had discussed it earlier in the vi left by An Feiya, Li Cong was an architect and interior designer.


    He was also one of the designers who participated in the design of Huafu Hill City, so many of the suggestions he gave to the couple felt very good to them.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t have many big requirements, but his requirements for the kitchen were very high.


    Rong Dai also made some of her own suggestions, and the two sides finalized it.


    Ordinary people would run their legs off looking at and decorating houses, but they settled it in one day.


    Rong Dai could onlyment to herself that having money meant being willful.


    As the sun was setting, the couple returned to the Huo residence hand in hand. Seeing theme back like this, Lu Zheng''s smile on her face could not be concealed.


    "How was the house? If you don''t like Huafu Hill City, go take a look at Royal Pce Community. The houses there are also good."


    Hearing this, Rong Dai silently tutted to herself.


    Although she had seen big money before, she had also lived without money, and knew deeply that money and valuables were hard-earned.


    Moreover, when looking at the house just now, she had also asked the manager andpared it with several famous housing estates in Shengjing.


    The prices of Royal Pce Community were only a little more expensive than Huafu Hill City, because the main idea of Royal Pce Community was to create imperial luxury. The location was also a prime location, and the residents were all prominent figures in various industries.


    On the other hand, Huo Shao Ting had always lived in the old Huo family manor.


    Although the old Huo family manor was also a stand-alone vi with a courtyard, it was already quite old, although the interior decoration was not outdated.


    But with Huo Shao Ting''s worth, it would be very easy for him to buy a vi in Royal Pce Community.


    However, he only lived in thepany or rested at the Huo residence.


    "It''s settled already. You don''t need to worry about these things. Just think about your own affairs. Your father passed away so many years ago, and grandma has brought it up to you many times."


    "You used to say that you were most worried about me. Now I have a wife to worry about me, so you should focus your thoughts on personal issues."


    Huo Shao Ting loosened his tie, and looked at Lu Zheng with the same expressionless look as before.


    But the words he said made Lu Zheng feel honored.


    The eldest son had never cared about these issues of hers for so many years, let alone stated his position on this matter.

 Chapter 142: The Dress For Her

    <h4>Chapter 142</h4>


    Lu Zheng subconsciously looked at Rong Dai in puzzlement.


    Rong Dai could barely make out what was said, but when she noticed her mother-inw''s gaze, she was also very confused.


    "You must be tired from looking at houses today. Rong Dai, I''ve cooked bird''s nest for you in the kitchen, go drink it."


    Lu Zheng could clearly see that her eldest son brought this up and it had nothing to do with his daughter-inw.


    Rong Dai was puzzled in her heart, but did not inquire further. She obediently nodded and went in to carefully sip the bird''s nest soup.


    "What did you mean when you said that to Mom just now?"


    What you said sounded rather suggestive.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at her and used a tissue to wipe the corners of her mouth. His voice was light as he exined, "Father passed away early, and she has been a widow for many years. Grandma has urged her many times that even if she remarries, she would still be part of the Huo family."


    Rong Dai suddenly understood. When she thought about it carefully, her mother-inw really had not had it easy.


    Her husband died young, and the Huo family had gone through such upheavals. Although life had always beenfortable, some things could not be resolved with just money.


    Theck and emptiness of emotional needs were the crux of the problem.


    However, she did not intend to meddle in this matter. Shao Ting was her mother-inw''s son, so whatever he said about this had nothing to do with her.


    Moreover, the ethos of patriarchy did not exist in the environment she had lived in during her previous life.


    In addition, her mother-inw''s family also seemed to have an impressive background. As long as she wished, even at this age, she would still be very popr.


    "But this kind of thing cannot be rushed. Mom should have her own considerations, so don''t rush her too much or she will be upset."


    Rong Dai put down her bowl and reached out to tidy his tie. She gently admonished him.


    Lu Zheng had just been about to step into the kitchen when she overheard these words. She quickly drew back her foot, her eyes instantly turning red, and hurried upstairs.


    Rong Dai and her husband were both fond of cooking. The two of them worked together in the kitchen to prepare a sumptuous dinner for therge family.


    "Mei Shu, how are the preparations for your music recitaling along? I''ll be going to Hang City''s film and television city for my new drama in a little over twenty days. If you need any help, just say the word."


    After dinner, Rong Dai did not cling to Huo Shao Ting. He had not gone to work today, butpany affairs still required his attention.


    Because the new drama was about to start filming, Huo Shao Jie had been so busy these past few days that sometimes he could not even make it home for meals.


    Her mother-inw also had her own things to deal with. It was this young auntie who was sitting on the sofa looking distressed.


    Rong Dai assumed she was running into difficulties organizing the music recital, so she went over and sat next to her to ask.


    She was very fond of this young auntie''s personality��bold in love and hate, direct and sincere.


    Huo Mei Shu listlessly leaned against the sofa and tossed her phone aside.


    "Don''t even talk about it. I sent out all the invitations today, and everyone replied except for him!"


    Huo Mei Shu waspletely dejected.


    "Is it the boy you like?"


    Rong Dai was perceptive. She remembered that the young auntie had admitted to liking someone before.


    If he did not show up for the recital, the young auntie probably would not have any enthusiasm left to organize it.


    If this was her previous life, she definitely would have scolded the young auntie for debasing herself.


    But after understanding the openness and inclusiveness of this era, she knew that the young auntie was like girls of fifteen or sixteen who were just experiencing the first stirrings of love in her previous world.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded gloomily. Her whole being was like her spirit had been drained away.


    "Let''s think of a way for this. Maybe he''s just busy and hasn''t seen it yet."


    Rong Dai gave her a faint smile and patted her hand before standing up. "Come with me, I have something to give you."


    Huo Mei Shu sighed. Although she still felt very down, she could not bear to reject Rong Dai''s kindness and followed her upstairs to the embroidery room.


    Rong Dai took out an almost finished dress. In addition to learning from Master Jiang in recent times, she had also been learning the original owner''s profession.


    Although the dress style was not as borate as her previous life, it still exuded a ssical elegance.


    The light green long dress was embroidered with bamboo leaves in silver thread and gray silk embroidery floss. As the hem and sleeves swayed, it was as if you could see the bamboo leaves fluttering vividly.


    "Sister-inw, you actually made me a dress?"


    Huo Mei Shu''s previously dispirited appearance vanished when she saw the dress. Her eyes lit up!


    Clutching the dress, she stroked the exquisite embroidery work with her hand. Her eyes were full of delight.


    "I didn''t know what youcked, but since you study ssical music, I made you a dress. I''ll finish up the fastenings tomorrow and it''ll be done."


    Seeing her smile brightly, Rong Dai felt relieved.


    Although the young auntie was hostile towards her at first, ever since Left Ran''s incident, the young auntie had defended her every step of the way.


    As a young miss who nevercked anything growing up, this simple dress was the best she could do.


    "Thank you, sister-inw! I absolutely love it! This dress is so beautiful!"


    Huo Mei Shu was extremely excited, unable to resist hugging Rong Dai and jumping up and down a few times.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly. She really was still naive.


    Gloominess was fleeting, and so was happiness.


    "I''m d you like it." She gently patted the young auntie''s back and said softly.


    Seeing the young auntie now reminded her of her past self.


    And her present self was like her elder sister back then.


    Whenever she was unhappy or depressed, as long as she went to her elder sister, all troubles would vanish.


    "I love it! I absolutely love it!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded rapidly, eyes fixed on the dress, unwilling to let go.


    She had thought about asking her sister-inw to help design clothes for her before. After all, her sister-inw''s profession was design.


    Not to mention her exquisite embroidery skills. If she could get clothes personally designed by her sister-inw, and he came too, then her music recital would already be halfway to perfect!


    "Sister-inw, I had wanted to ask you to make me one before. I didn''t expect you to secretly make this for me already!"


    Huo Mei Shu was extremely delighted.


    "Can I go try it on?"


    Rong Dai nodded. Watching her run off with the dress, she could not help but smile and shake her head.


    She looked at the little embroidery left on the frame and simply continued with it until Huo Shao Ting came to knock on the door of the embroidery room around ten o''clock. Only then did Rong Daie back to her senses.


    "I''ll be done soon." Rong Dai did not look up at him but continued to focus on her embroidery.


    Huo Shao Ting did not disturb her, only looking at her profile.


    Her focused look was like a painting, making him unable to help wondering what she must have been like back then.


    He looked at her with an almost obsessive gaze. Huo Mei Shu felt sour when she brought the dress over.


    "Big brother, can you please consider us singles? Blocking the door and watching my sister-inw work is affecting her."


    Huo Mei Shu felt very speechless.


    She discovered that her big brother was bing more and more doting on her sister-inw. At home, she could feel the sour lemon at any time.

 Chapter 143: Including a Spoiled Child

    <h4>Chapter 143</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting nced at her coldly, and Huo Mei Shu felt a chill down her back. She hurriedly stopped talking and took the skirt inside.


    "Sister-inw, thank you so much, I love it!"


    When she handed the skirt to Rong Dai, she gave her a light hug to express her gratitude.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. This young girl had an honest personality that was quite different from the modern way of thinking. Her emotions were often written on her face.


    Although the young girl was trying to conceal it, Rong Dai could still clearly see the hint of loss and sadness in her eyes. Of course she wasn''t dissatisfied with the skirt itself.


    "Sister-inw, go to bed early. I''ll get going first."


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t linger. She turned around and left the embroidery room.


    Rong Dai carefully hung up the skirt and folded up the quilt cover she had finished embroidering.


    She had originally intended to finish the whole quilt, but thought that the elderlydy might not like her work.


    She had only embroidered the quilt cover, leaving the rest for her mother-inw''s friend tomission someone else to do.


    Huo Shao Ting stood leaning against the door frame with his arms crossed, waiting for her to finish. The husband and wife then went downstairs to the bedroom.


    "Shao Ting, does Mei Shu have someone she likes?"


    As she came out with a hairdryer to blow dry her hair, she saw Huo Shao Ting emerge from the bathroom. Thinking of how the young girl had been quite attentive to her recently, she brought it up.


    Huo Shao Ting walked over and naturally took the hairdryer from her. Rong Dai sat to one side and let him blow dry her hair. After all, being served by her beloved was a kind of enjoyment.


    "Gu Chengyan."


    He answered bluntly.


    Rong Dai was a little exasperated. This guy''s answers were always so concise.


    He was the young girl''s elder brother, so how could he be so calm about it?


    Back in her past life when she had taken a liking to the Emperor when he was still a prince, her elder and second elder brothers had been extremely anxious, repeatedly going to the Emperor to investigate.


    Yet this guy was not only indifferent in his answer, but didn''t seem to care much either.


    "What kind of person is he? Mei Shu seems to really like him."


    Thinking of how the young girl had painstakingly prepared for the concert, it was evident she desperately wanted Gu Chengyan toe.


    She was actually quite curious what kind of man the young girl with this kind of personality would fall for.


    "Tone deaf, a fool."


    After thinking briefly, Huo Shao Ting threw out these words as his evaluation.


    Rong Dai: "......"


    It seemed there would be no further answers from asking him. What kind ofments were these?


    "Do you have a way to get him toe? I can see Mei Shu has been distracted these past few days. To be honest, I''m very fond of her."


    Rong Dai turned her head, her bright eyes looking at him as she gently asked.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyebrows furrowed slightly. "You''re fond of her?"


    There was a hint of jealousy in his tone. He put down the hairdryer and leaned in to kiss her.


    "Shao Ting... mn..."


    Before she could exin, she was engulfed in his scorching heat and passion.


    The next morning, Rong Dai awoke to soreness. Huo Shao Ting was still at her side, his deep eyes reflecting her image.


    Her cheeks immediately flushed red, and she red at him resentfully.


    Huo Shao Ting paid it no mind. Hisrge hand tidied her disheveled hair, and he leaned down to kiss her forehead.


    Rong Dai paled in fright, her cheeks and ears turning bright red. Clutching the thin quilt tightly around herself, she looked at him warily, her eyes tinged with rm.


    "Time to get up."


    Although Huo Shao Ting missed the intoxicating feeling of their intimacy, he cared more about how she felt.


    "It... hurts."


    These two words slipped from Rong Dai''s mouth.


    As soon as she said it, she regretted it.


    How could she, a queen, utter such melodramatic words?


    Rong Dai was instantly mortified and annoyed with herself. It was as if Huo Shao Ting could read her thoughts - he pressed down on her and gently admonished in a volume only the two of them could hear:


    "Rong Dai, remember, I am your husband. As long as you don''t cross my principles and moral bottom line, any of your requests to me are reasonable."


    Rong Dai''s heart pounded wildly. Although she was gradually getting used to his way of expressing affection, it still made her inexplicably nervous, still giving her that fluttering feeling of new love.


    "Including acting coquettishly."


    He paused for a moment, a wicked smile on his handsome face.


    Rong Dai felt both shy and indignant. Seeing him continue to talk like this, she was so angry she wanted to scratch him.


    After some frolicking, the husband and wife finally came downstairs. At the dining table sat only the mother-inw and young sister-inw.


    Huo Shao Jie had been busy preparing for the new drama he was filming these days, practically vanishing without a trace.


    After breakfast, Rong Dai went upstairs to bring down the finished quilt cover for her mother-inw.


    "I''ve only embroidered the quilt cover for this longevity quilt. I''ll have to trouble Mother to get your friend tomission someone else for the rest. I''m afraid if I do it all, the elderlydy might not like the effect."


    Rong Dai spoke tactfully with a gentle voice.


    As Lu Zheng looked over the exquisite embroidery on the quilt cover, she couldn''t help but nce at Rong Dai admiringly. "Rong Dai, your embroidery skills are incredible!"


    "I''m d if Mother is satisfied." Rong Dai smiled humbly, though she was well aware her embroidery skills were exceptional.


    "I''ll go bring this over now then. I didn''t discuss payment beforehand, so Rong Dai, how much do you think is fair? I don''t understand this industry, but your skills are better than those at the embroidery shop. I was thinking of using their prices as a baseline, what do you think?"


    Rong Dai had been about to go upstairs. Hearing her mother-inw ask this, she halted her steps.


    Although she had no reputation here, she didn''t want to denigrate her skills either, so she nodded. "You can decide, Mother."


    Lu Zheng nodded and happily went out after tidying away the quilt cover.


    Rong Dai went upstairs to fix the sps on the young sister-inw''s skirt, then started on the online orders she had received.


    The rest didn''t have any special requirements, mostly handkerchiefs. They didn''te with base diagrams either.


    However, there was a base diagram of a pine tree on South Mountain that came with very detailed requirements.


    "Looks like this is an expert."


    Rong Dai was an expert herself, so she could discern this ruse with one nce. She wasn''t surprised someone from the industry had ced an order.


    Rong Dai spent the whole morning in the embroidery room. After finishing the sister-inw''s skirt and some orders, she stretched and went downstairs to the kitchen.


    She took somemon medicinal ingredients, rinsed them in hot water, then added them to tea water to simmer. After it cooled down somewhat, she soaked her hands in it. She wrapped the dregs in a cloth and squeezed out the moisture, then pressed the warm bundle over her eyes.


    "Sister-inw, what are you doing?"


    Huo Mei Shu came downstairs for water and saw her like this, so she asked.


    "Maintaining my eyes and hands. I embroider a lot, so this is a method passed down by a court physician from the pal... from a pce. It''s very effective."


    Rong Dai caught herself in time.


    In her past life when she was in that cold pce ce, shecked everything. She could only rely on embroidery to make a living. Naturally she had to take good care of her eyes and hands.

 Chapter 144: Be a Demon Again

    <h4>Chapter 144</h4>


    "Really?" Huo Mei Shu was skeptical.


    Rong Dai noticed hering to her side, with a smile on her face, "If you want to try it, I can make it for you."


    This was indeed her secret recipe, given to her by a martial arts doctor.


    Because in her previous life, Upheaval City was so extravagant that almost every household had top-grade Chinese medicines like deer antler, ginseng and lingzhi.


    The form made by that martial arts doctor used simple andmon medicines, which those wealthy madams and nobledies naturally disdained to use.


    Huo Mei Shu leaned over and sniffed the small bag on Rong Dai''s eyelids. The smell of tea mixed with Chinese medicine was rather strange.


    "I''ll pass."


    She shook her head and went to the kitchen to get some water.


    After she came out with the water, Rong Dai took the small bag off her eyelids, wiping the water drops on her hands.


    Seeing that the young aunt was still there, she nced at the clock on the wall. It was already noon.


    It seemed that mother-inw and uncle were noting back for lunch.


    "Mei Shu, what do you want to eat for lunch? I''ll make it for you."


    Hearing her say this, Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up at once, "Red oil dumplings! Sister-inw, can you make them?"


    Rong Dai nodded, "I know a little."


    In her previous life, the imperial chefs in the pce came from all over the country. Some people only knew how to make one dish, and could not be considered chefs.


    However, because that dish was made excellently, they became imperial chefs, specializing in serving thedies in the harem.


    "Thank you, sister-inw!"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately cheered up and followed her into the kitchen.


    Rong Dai liked to eat handmade noodle dough she made herself. Seeing her smooth movements of kneading dough and rolling noodles, Huo Mei Shu could hardly believe her eyes.


    Her elder brother had married a treasure of a sister-inw!


    Only Rong Dai herself knew clearly that in her previous life, she had spent so much effort and made so many attempts just to please the Emperor and make him happy.


    If it hadn''t been for the Emperor, how could she, a youngdy from a general''s mansion, who had never done any housework, know how to make dough?


    The sisters-inw ate dumplings for lunch. Huo Mei Shu sat back contentedly in her chair,pletely satisfied.


    "Mei Shu, have you heard that it''s hard to take back words once they leave your mouth?"


    Rong Dai put down her chopsticks, and looked at her with a deep smile.


    Huo Mei Shu immediately sat up straight, looking at her woefully, "Sister-inw, you''ve been led astray by my elder brother!"


    "Your elder brother said that Gu Chengyan woulde. Just be at ease and focus on what you should do, don''t be absent-minded."


    Rong Dai looked at her, still smiling.


    Looking at the young aunt now reminded her of her previous self.


    She had also been restless for the Emperor like this before, hadn''t she?


    She just didn''t want the young aunt to be as sincere and devoted as she was.


    When she heard the three words "Gu Chengyan", Huo Mei Shu tensed up. Hearing the second half of Rong Dai''s words, she sighed lightly.


    "I want to, but as soon as I think that he won''te, I feel frustrated."


    Rong Dai looked at her sincerely, "If he doesn''t ept your invitation once, send it two or three more times."


    "What if he still doesn''t ept it?" Huo Mei Shu asked anxiously.


    Rong Dai pursed her lips, was silent for a few seconds, then said, "Then it means he has no feelings for you at all, and you can get over it sooner."


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression wilted, losing all her vigor.


    "Did you learn ssical music because of him?" She continued asking the young aunt.


    "Kind of, half of it was also because I liked it myself. Because elder brother is the pir of our family, grandma and mother don''t interfere much with what I want to do, as long as I like it."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded and shook her head, her tone full of loss.


    Rong Dai looked serious and solemn, "Mei Shu, you have your priorities reversed."


    Thinking of all that she had experienced in her previous life, although many people and events had be blurred in her memory.


    But the Emperor''s scheming, utilising and betraying her was still vivid.


    What she lost to the Emperor was not her nobility, but her pride and dignity.


    She had given too much to the Emperor and loved too humbly.


    During this time with Huo Shao Ting, she finally woke up.


    It turned out that loving someone was caring and worrying for him.


    No matter what you do, it''s pointless for someone who doesn''t love you.


    "You are beautiful, have good family background and talents. Pursuing someone is like fighting a war, you also need strategy."


    "I don''t mean plotting schemes, but you can''t lose your dignity and pride for someone who can''t do the same for you."


    "Loving too humbly will only lead to anxiety and torment, even if you seed."


    She spoke earnestly, but seeing the young aunt like this, her advice probably wouldn''t be very effective.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded. She understood all these principles.


    But whenever she thought of that person, she would lose her calm and reason.


    Rong Dai didn''t say any more. Some words, if they could be epted, would have been already.


    After a nap in the afternoon, Rong Dai made some tea while studying the script.


    Although she already knew the lines by heart, this was her first attempt in both lives, and she didn''t want to make any mistakes.


    At least memorizing the lines was the most basic aplishment for an actor.


    "Sister-inw, look at your phone quickly!"


    Rong Dai was engrossed when she suddenly heard Huo Mei Shu''s panicked cry.


    "What happened?"


    Huo Mei Shu came to her anxiously and angrily, handing over her phone, "These people...how unjustifiable! Completely irrational!"


    Seeing how she was about to explode, Rong Dai nced at the news on the phone and couldn''t help a flicker of coldness in her eyes.


    The Wen Company had gone bankrupt overnight and was acquired by the Huo Company. Wen Shi Lan had also paid the price, being sentenced to five years in prison.


    Because of this, she had a falling out with Huo Shao Ting.


    She thought this matter had made the Wen family aware of their mistakes, but she didn''t expect them to be so stubborn!


    Even with Wen Shi Lan in jail, these Wen family members were still making trouble!


    She could understand the Wen family making trouble.


    After all, falling from heaven to hell overnight, even an ordinary person wouldin and vent.


    With the advanced inte nowadays, it was normal to be hyped up.


    But what was going on with Huo Linjing?


    What grudge or resentment did she have against her?


    She was so vicious that she went live to denounce her!


    "This damned Huo Linjing! She''s an ungrateful wretch! With eyes that can see, how could she fancy trash like Wen Runlin!"


    Huo Mei Shu was fuming. Watching Huo Linjing crying on the livestream, she was so angry she wanted to strangle the other party!


    Rong Dai was also displeased in her heart.


    Especially when she first went to the Huo Group Building, the idea of the Second Young Master''s side to arrange for someone to seduce Huo Shao Ting made her usual calm mood change.


    "Mei Shu, can you help me register an ount?"


    In her previous life when facing the provocations of the consorts, her first thought was always the royal dignity, so she endured a lot and couldn''t defend herself when taking hidden losses countless times.


    But the world was different now, she wouldn''t endure like that anymore. Sometimes silence was not necessarily a good thing.

 Chapter 145: Sugar Straight

    <h4>Chapter 145</h4>


    "Sister-inw, are you going to fight back?" Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up. She loved messing with voodoo dolls the most!


    Rong Dai nodded solemnly, "It''s fine if she scolds me, but I''m Huo Shao Ting''s wife now. I can''t let Huo family''s reputation be ruined by me."


    The most important thing was that Ding Keqing she met at Huo''s Skyscraper. That was Huo Linjing''s best friend, arranged to seduce her husband. How could she tolerate that?


    This was not like the past life, where a man could have three wives and four concubines.


    She was just an ordinary woman, who only wished to spend her life with her beloved man.


    Given a choice in her past life, which woman would be willing to share her husband with others?


    Even if willing, it would only mean she didn''t love enough.


    Although there were some things here she was still trying to ept, she liked the monogamy here, one husband one wife, and one lifetime one person.


    In her past life she didn''t have a choice, she could only tolerate it.


    In the end, she had tolerated it so much that even she herself became blurred.


    Those days disgusted her, yet she was helpless.


    Since she could choose here, of course she wouldn''t keep silent!


    There''s a saying, "A tigress in the household". No matter Rong Dai was an ancient soul, so what? What others could do, she could do the same!


    "Alright, sister-inw!"


    Huo Mei Shu moved swiftly, setting up the stand in no time.


    After following Jiang Ling around drama crews these days, Rong Dai had be veryfortable in front of the camera.


    She tidied up her emotions a little, an elegant and tranquil smile appeared on her exquisite face.


    "Mei Shu, please bring me some paper and pen. I want to list out point by point what Huo Linjing said."


    She never liked framing others, but when someone made her feel bad, then sorry, she never went easy. When she made her move, she always cut off the opponent''s retreat.


    This could only be said that Huo Linjing was asking for it.


    "Coming up, sister-inw!"


    Huo Mei Shu readily agreed and brought over the stationary.


    Rong Dai had practiced her beautiful cursive calligraphy to perfection. Not that she liked this charming and versatile beauty calligraphy.


    It was because the emperor in her past life liked it. To gain the emperor''s favor, she had forcefully practiced it for many years. Now it came to her effortlessly.


    What she really enjoyed was cursive script, unconstrained and unfettered.


    But she was afraid if she wrote in that, few could understand it.


    "Sister-inw, your handwriting is so beautiful, almost like printing!"


    Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but exim as she watched. She kept discovering new things about her sister-inw, it was like she was a hidden treasure.


    "You''ll get there with more practice."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, then put down the pen.


    "Shall we start?"


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t respond. She wasn''t a calligraphy expert herself, but her sister-inw''s writing, it must have taken more than just practice to reach that level.


    Rong Dai nodded. The sisters-inw started their livestream.


    "Quick, look! Huo Shao Ting''s wife Rong Dai is also livestreaming! Is she going to confront Huo Linjing?"


    "Where is it? Let me check it out! Rong Dai looks decent in photos, wonder if there are filters in her livestream?"


    As soon as the sisters-inw began their livestream, the inte exploded.


    "Where did everyone go?"


    Huo Linjing was originally performing very vividly, attracting lots of attention. Under her lead, some even hurled abuse at Rong Dai, sessfully attracting a bunch of anti-fans for her.


    But halfway through, over half of the people were gone, leaving her puzzled.


    Some kindizens reminded her that Rong Dai had also started livestreaming.


    mes instantly lit up in Huo Linjing''s eyes, "She ruined my life so miserably! She made the Wen family suffer so much, yet she still dares to livestream!"


    Saying so, she stopped her own livestream to watch Rong Dai''s.


    Rong Dai listed Huo Linjing''s usations against her one by one, and refuted them point by point.


    "Miss Huo, you said I bankrupted the Wen family, but I have nothing to do with that."


    She smiled gracefully on her exquisite face, behaving elegantly and calmly, speaking unhurriedly and gently.


    Some of the misledizens started changing sides again.


    "The Wen corporation is one of the best in Shengjing. I''m just a woman, how could I be so capable? It was just operational issues within the Wen corporation itself. You overestimate me too much, Miss Huo. I''m very grateful for your ttery."


    "Secondly, although I don''t wish to say more about my affairs with Miss Wen Shi Lan, I still need to remind you once again, Miss Huo."


    Her dark eyes stared straight into the camera lens. That sharp yet dignified gaze seemed to prate the camera, sending chills down someizens'' spines.


    "Oh my god! Her eyes scared me!"


    "Me too, the death stare!"


    Netizens keptmenting. Within minutes, Rong Dai''s livestream exceeded a million views, with numbers still soaring rapidly!


    "Miss Wen harmed me before. Although Left Ran and I were involved, that was my private business. Her interference almost cost me my life."


    "If you are unsatisfied, you may file an appeal to the court and seek justice for Miss Wen, which you believe she deserves."


    "I was the victim. I hope you remember that, Miss Huo."


    Rong Dai enunciated each word clearly. If she continued keeping silent, these people would only be more arrogant!


    "Boss, your wife is livestreaming, arguing with Miss Huo Linjing."


    In Huo''s Skyscraper, Assistant Zhang showed Huo Shao Ting the livestream on his phone.


    Huo Shao Ting stopped his work, frowned slightly, then let Assistant Zhang leave. He took out his own phone, registered an ount, and started madly gifting Rong Dai.


    "Well said, wife!"


    "Wife is right!"


    "Bullies of my wife, just you wait!"


    ...


    A series of overbearingly domineering words flooded Rong Dai''s livestream.


    "Chairman Huo? Chairman Huo is here? Giving his wife support?"


    "Is this... livestream PDA?"


    Theizens were stunned for a few seconds, then exploded in excitement!


    Seeing her livestream almost crash, Rong Dai waspletely puzzled.


    Huo Mei Shu also didn''t expect her proud and aloof eldest brother to do something so childish. She was somewhat amused and exasperated.


    But wasn''t this what they had been hoping for as a family? That the eldest brother would be more down-to-earth and human?


    "Sister-inw, need to exin further?" Seeing the livestream about to blow up, Huo Mei Shu guessed even top inte celebrities couldn''tpare to her sister-inw now.


    Rong Dai felt helpless inside, but even more sweetness.


    "Of course." She answered firmly.


    "I''ll only say this once. In the future, if anyone dares use such matters to nder or vilify me again, or take advantage of the Huo corporation, I''ll just send them awyer''s letter."


    Rong Dai continued, exining the listed questions patiently one by one.


    She also patiently addressed some thorny questions raised byizens.


    After the entire livestream, Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting became hot search topics again as a couple.


    Although Rong Dai gained some fans, many still didn''t buy it. But they didn''t dare say much either, not wanting to get sued. They could only keyboard m for attention.

 Chapter 146: Private Concert

    <h4>Chapter 146</h4>


    "This bitch! Relying on Huo Shao Ting''s sophistry over there!"


    Rong Dai sessfully turned the tables for herself. Looking at thements fromizens online, Huo Linjing was so angry that her face turned livid. She stared at Rong Dai resentfully on the livestream rey screen, unable to restrain herself from curses.


    But she only dared to curse loudly at home, and didn''t dare do anything else, let alone go livestreaming. She was afraid that as soon as she started livestreaming, she would be the first one to be scolded till no skin was left.


    Huo Linjing was very annoyed, yet helpless. She didn''t expect things to go downhill so quickly.


    The Wen family was in trouble, and so was her own family. Her grandfather had a stroke and was bedridden. Her parents were useless. Her big brother was busy saving hispany in Sucheng. As for her younger brother Huo Shaoming, she didn''t even dare rely on him.


    Huo Linjing slumped on the sofa crying in despair. Seeing Wen Runlin''s iing call, she immediately answered.


    But instead of Wen Runlin''s concern, what she got was a torrent of scolding!


    "Huo Linjing, are you trying to get me killed?! The Wen family is already like this. I can''t afford to marry you anymore! If you want to go after Rong Dai in the future, do it yourself! Don''t drag me into it!"


    Wen Runlin was very annoyed. Looking at his bedridden grandmother and worried mother, with his sister still in jail, the Wen family business was finished. At this point, offending Huo Shao Ting again would leave their whole family without a ce to live.


    "Runlin, is our family andpany really finished like this?"


    Wen''s mother asked him with eyes brimming red, full of despair.


    Wen Runlin clenched his fists tightly, his face extremely livid. In the end, his shoulders slumped heavily.


    At this point, the Wen family was thoroughly finished.


    They couldn''t even keep thepany building, what could be left of the Wen family?


    Those uncles, the first thing they thought of when thepany got in trouble was dividing up thepany to obtain the most benefits.


    No one even thought of trying to save thepany.


    "Mr. Wen, please don''t worry. I will take good care of young miss. Old madam''s illness can''t be dyed. We can only go abroad as soon as possible."


    Yang Yue stood in the ward, his expression as cold as ever.


    Hearing him speak, Wen Runlin looked over.


    "Thepany is gone now. The Wen family doesn''t need a driver anymore. I''ll transfer your sry to your ount. You can leave."


    Wen Runlin said wearily.


    Yang Yue looked at the family of three in the ward. His expression was very cold, and his eyes were extremely icy.


    "Thank you for your consideration, Mr. Wen. Young miss has shown me kindness. I will do my best to take care of young miss. You can go abroad with peace of mind."


    Wen Runlin ignored him. He really didn''t want to hear the three words "Wen Shi Lan" right now.


    If it wasn''t for Wen Shi Lan, Huo Shao Ting wouldn''t have turned against the Wen family so quickly either.


    But it was toote to say anything now.


    Yang Yue could see the look in Wen Runlin''s eyes, but didn''t say anything. He just bowed and left the ward.


    Once out of the ward, his eyes shed with fierce and sinister light. Huo''s Enterprise, Rong Dai, none of them will get away!


    ...


    Rong Dai was unaware that the Wen family and Huo''s family now hated her to the bone.


    Since the livestream, her poprity had surged. Followers on her Weibo ount increased rapidly, but the vast majority were not real fans.


    Rong Dai didn''t have the energy to pay attention to these things. Because of the livestream incident, she enjoyed a period of tranquility in her life.


    She spent her days embroidering in the embroidery room. asionally she would go deliver Huo Shao Ting''s lunch at noon. In the afternoon she would study and improve herself.


    "Shao Ting, will that Gu Chengyan you mentioned reallye? If he doesn''t show up, I feel Mei Shu will be very disappointed."


    After changing into formal attire, Rong Dai couldn''t help asking Huo Shao Ting.


    Today was Huo Mei Shu''s music concert. Thinking of Mei Shu''s anticipation these past days, she couldn''t help asking again.


    "Whether hees or not is up to him. Don''t worry about her matters. Focus more on your husband, hmm?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her possessively, leaning in to lightly peck her cheek, his gaze trailing down her swan neck.


    "I remember you have many scarves. Wear one."


    Rong Dai looked puzzledly at her own outfit - a cheongsam, hand-embroidered with bright, lush peony motifs.


    It was just a very traditional hand-embroidered cheongsam. Why did he want her to wear a scarf too?


    "I don''t like others coveting even a shred of you."


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze towards her was indulgent, his tone gentle.


    All her beauty, he selfishly wanted to possess for himself.


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly. She could only go to the closet and find a scarf in matching colors. Looking at herself in the mirror, she smiled wryly.


    Huo Shao Ting was the biggest obstacle to her embracing fresh things.


    In her past life, women were required to smile without showing teeth, and even their arms couldn''t be exposed.


    Even in blistering heat waves, although their attire was splendid, wrapped in threeyers inside and threeyers outside, enduring the heat was difficult even with cooling ice blocks.


    Only aftering here did she realize just howfortable modern women werepared to her past life.


    At first she wasn''t used to baring arms and legs either, but Shengjing''s blistering summers made light clothing very cooling.


    She had made great progress in her studies recently. Aside from acting, she had also greatly improved in fashion design, the original owner''s field of study.


    She put on the scarf and went out. The indulgence in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes didn''t diminish. His suit today had hand-embroidered details that matched Rong Dai''s outfit.


    Seeing him change into a new suit, Rong Dai smiled lightly, warm inside.


    His actions were telling others that they were husband and wife, a united front.


    Only when one truly cared for someone would they do such attentive things.


    "Big brother, sister-inw, you two change so slowly! Do you want to suffocate me? If you have time to be lovey-dovey, have some consideration for others!"


    Seeing the couplee down, Huo Mei Shu said very helplessly.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze deeply swept over her dress - the one Rong Dai made for her.


    "I...I''ll go to the car first."


    Sensing his gaze, Huo Mei Shu immediately quieted, picking up her dress as she hurried out.


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly, linking arms with Huo Shao Ting as they got in the car, heading for the concert venue.


    Huo Mei Shu had booked an upscale music club for her concert, only affluent patrons could afford to visit.


    The venue was elegantly decorated in light blue, green and pink. The sound of the piano could be heard even before entering.


    Huo Mei Shu had invited some renowned figures in her field, as well as many wealthy madams and youngdies. Everyone was dressed splendidly, chatting andughing with wine sses in hand.


    Seeing Rong Dai and her husband appear, many came up to greet them, gazing at Rong Dai with more appraisal.


    After all, this unknown Mrs. Huo had made great waves in Shengjing recently, unparalleled by anyone. Everyone wanted to catch a glimpse.

 Chapter 147: Play a Tune

    <h4>Chapter 147</h4>


    Facing the scrutiny of these people, Rong Dai was calm andposed. Her manners were elegant and graceful. Standing by Huo Shao Ting''s side, the two of them were like a beautiful scenic line.


    After a round of greetings, Rong Dai felt a little tired. She saw peopleing in session, but the young aunt who was the hostess kept ncing outside the club from time to time.


    Rong Dai knew what was on her mind. When Huo Shao Ting walked over, she asked in a low voice, "Is that person really noting? I see Mei Shu has been waiting."


    Huo Shao Ting followed her line of sight and frowned slightly, "Don''t think too much about it, it''s her own business."


    Rong Dai had no choice but to nod.


    Although she wanted to help the young aunt, this was after all a matter of her own feelings. If she interfered too much, it would be inappropriate.


    She was just very curious what kind of person Gu Chengyan was exactly?


    A young miss like Mei Shu, who was born with a silver spoon, could get whatever she wanted ever since she was young. The man who could make her yearn like this must not be the fool Shao Ting spoke of.


    The music recital was also attended by the Lu brothers Yue and Hong, and Ji Zheng also came. These were all people Rong Dai knew.


    Those who coulde to this music recital were all people with deep ties to the Huo family.


    Just as Rong Dai was looking around, she saw two familiar faces and was curious.


    "Isn''t that Shi Lao and Shi Ning?"


    She had a deep impression of Jinxiu Store. She had looked it up onler and found out Jinxiu Store had a great reputation not only domestically, but also internationally.


    Jinxiu Store had be a brand that could represent China. She also hoped that one day she could build her own brand in this field, so as not to waste her skills.


    "Sister-inw, did you forget? Last time Shi Lao said she knew Granny, so I asked Granny for her contact information."


    "I really like Shi Lao''s embroideries, it''s just a pity that she doesn''t produce any works now due to her old age."


    "I sent her an invitation just to give it a try, I didn''t expect the olddy to reallye."


    Her words just happened to be overheard by the young aunt. Huo Mei Shu exined to her right away.


    Rong Dai nodded. That day at Jinxiu Store when they were shopping, she had seen Shi Lao''s embroideries, which were indeed exquisite.


    Moreover, Shi Lao was originally from this era. Her embroideries contained the elegance and refinement of traditional culture, while also incorporating some modern fashion elements. They were very ssic.


    She had also seen Shi Ning''s works, which had Shi Lao''s style, butcked some of her own ir.


    Just as she was observing Shi Lao and Shi Ning, her eyes happened to meet Shi Ning''s.


    Although it was only a few seconds, Shi Ning''s eyes made her feel very puzzled.


    Shi Ning seemed to have great hostility towards her.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Huo Shao Ting noticed her mood and asked.


    Rong Dai shook her head, "Nothing."


    She really couldn''t think of how she had offended Shi Ning. They had met only twice at most.


    They couldn''t even be considered acquaintances, so how could Shi Ning be hostile towards her?


    Moreover, the hostility seemed very strange.


    The recital began and she had no time to think more about it. She took Huo Shao Ting''s arm and entered the music hall.


    In her past life in the pce, there were also musicians who would y, but the effect was not as good as modern electronic equipment.


    Since this was a private club, all the equipment used was the best, so the sound effect was veryfortable to listen to.


    This was not the first time she had listened to the young aunt y.


    But she was still concerned about the young aunt''s musical aplishments. At least in her opinion, it wasparable to those nobledies in her past life who had practiced musical instruments diligently.


    Rong Dai enjoyed it. Huo Shao Ting did not have much interest in these things, he just wanted to apany Rong Dai here.


    When a piece finished, there was apuse from the audience, and asional chatter.


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting held hands. Beside them sat Lu Zheng and Huo Shao Jie, with the family sitting in the front row.


    Recently Rong Dai had been living a veryfortable life, thanks to Huo Shao Ting''s pampering and trust, which made her more determined about the future.


    Just as she was looking at the stage, her phone vibrated in her bag. She took it out and saw it was a text message from the young aunt.


    Seeing the message, she frowned slightly, let go of Huo Shao Ting''s hand, and whispered to her mother-inw beside her.


    Lu Zheng frowned, then got up from her seat and walked out.


    "What''s the matter?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with concern and asked.


    "Gu Chengyan is here, but he''s noting in. He just wants Mei Shu toe out and see him for a bit. Mei Shu asked me to help y a piece for her. Is that okay?"


    Rong Dai also didn''t understand why Gu Chengyan hade but didn''t enter.


    The young aunt''s piano skills were very good, she had at least practiced diligently for over ten years.


    Huo Shao Ting stroked her delicate boneless hand.


    "It''s just one piece, not much trouble at all."


    Rong Dai saw the stage had been empty for a long time. Those who were invited today all had close ties with the Huo family. Offending them would not affect the Huo family much, but it would certainly affect the young aunt''s reputation.


    Huo Shao Ting let go of her hand, looking at her with eyes full of delight and curiosity.


    She was like a hidden treasure, revealing new surprises with everyyer uncovered, astounding him at every moment.


    Rong Dai walked up the steps.


    Seeing Rong Dai go on stage, many people below were whispering to each other.


    After all, recently Rong Dai''s name had appeared most frequently in Shenjing''s media.


    Rong Dai sat elegantly and calmly in front of the piano, the spotlight shining on her slender graceful arms and beautiful figure.


    She just sat there quietly, giving the audience the illusion of seeing a youngdy from a traditional family sitting there.


    Every move she made was elegant, calm yet refined, as if tempered by time, just looking at her side profile could make one feel peaceful inside.


    It was a very strange feeling.


    "Now I understand why you didn''t marry any of those nobledies, but insisted on being with this Rong Dai who is an ordinary person in the eyes of the nobility."


    Sitting on the other side of Huo Shao Ting, Ji Zheng looked at Rong Dai under the spotlight, elegant as an orchid, and said with a smile.


    "She has a quality that makes people feelfortable and peaceful."


    Huo Shao Ting ignored him, his gaze fixed on Rong Dai on stage.


    Although Ji Zheng had spoken in a low voice, Shi Ning who was only one seat away could hear very clearly.


    She looked up at Rong Dai on stage. If not for the incident at the mall, she might have appreciated this ordinary person of humble origins.


    She nced slightly at Huo Shao Ting. In her eyes was a hint of surprise.


    It wasn''t that she didn''t know Huo Shao Ting. On the contrary, she had known him for a long time.


    Although the Huo family and Ji family were not hereditary allies, the older generation were acquainted. She had met Huo Shao Ting before.


    Her impression was that he had always been cold as ice. She had never seen him with a smile at the corner of his lips and such gentle eyes before.


    For a moment, she felt something flutter across her heart, and her heart trembled slightly.

 Chapter 148: Be Her Manager

    <h4>Chapter 148</h4>


    The sound of the piano on the stage rose up, and only then did Shi Ning pull back her own mind.


    She saw Rong Dai''s ying on the stage was very smooth. Her slender fingers were nimble, dancing on the piano strings, just like frolicking elves.


    She was ying "Ten Sides Ambush".


    The acoustics of this club were very good. This song was her father''s favorite song in her previous life.


    When the song ended, the entire music hall was filled with lingering echoes, as if the melody was still swirling in her ears.


    Rong Dai��s performance revealed her skills. Those madams and youngdies who had been looking at her appraisingly before now had to reassess her again.


    After all, everyone present was knowledgeable and experienced. Rong Dai��s piano skills could be considered a master��s.


    ��This girl is amazing. Young Master Huo, you are very fortunate to marry her.��


    As Shi Lao sat next to Huo ShaoJie, seeing Rong Dai walk down calmly from the stage, the approving look in his eyes grew even more.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded slightly to indicate his response. His eyes had been looking at Rong Dai from beginning to end, full of tenderness.


    "Phew��"


    After sitting down, Rong Dai let out a long sigh of relief. A smile hung on her delicate cheeks, and her eyes were a little apprehensive as she looked at Huo Shao Ting.


    "What do you think? I haven''t yed the piano for a long time, so I''m a little out of practice. I hope I don''t mess up Mei Shu''s music concert."


    She was clear about her own skills. Proficient in the six arts, while others were still whining and crying in their parents'' arms, she was already learning skills from masters.


    When she had yed in front of the emperor before, she had never been so nervous and apprehensive. But today she was particrly concerned about what Huo Shao Ting thought of her.


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand, lifted it up and gently kissed the back of her hand. His deep eyes were full of tenderness as he looked at her, "My wife, you are very outstanding, don''t underestimate your abilities."


    Today, she gave him another surprise again.


    She could embroider, cook, and now she could even y the piano.


    He didn��t know what else these hands of hers could do that he didn��t know about.


    With his affirmation, Rong Dai''s heart settled down.


    Throughout the concert, Huo Shao Ting held her hand with their fingers intertwined.


    "Rong Dai, isn''t it? Do you still remember me?"


    When they came out of the music hall, Shi Lao immediately found her.


    Rong Dai politely nodded, "Of course I still remember."


    "Your embroidery skills are very good. If you are willing, Jin Xiu Fang wees you toe anytime."


    Shi Lao smiled benevolently, looking at Rong Dai with approving eyes.


    Beside her, Shi Ning could see it clearly. Her fingers holding her handbag inadvertently tightened.


    "Thank you for thinking so highly of me, Shi Lao, but I''m afraid I can''t ept the invitation for the time being."


    Rong Dai politely declined. Although she liked Jin Xiu Fang, she never intended to join Jin Xiu Fang.


    If she wanted to do it, she would make her own brand, rather than making money for others.


    Besides, her new drama was about to start filming soon. She would also be leaving for Hangzhou soon, and she didn��t have much time left in Shengjing.


    She had already stopped taking embroidery orders online and was focusing on finishing the ones on hand. Embroidery would probably have to be suspended for a while.


    "It doesn''t matter. Young people should try more things. Feel free toe to Jin Xiu Fang for tea when you have time."


    Shi Lao didn''t say much more, then left with Shi Ning and Ji Zheng.


    After seeing off the guests one by one, Rong Dai finally had time to talk to Huo Mei Shu.


    "Mei Shu, did you see Gu Chengyan?"


    For this responsible little sister to abandon her work to see him, it was evident how important Gu Chengyan was to her.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her, hesitating over whether to speak. Her expression was a little tangled.


    "If you need my help with anything, just say it."


    Rong Dai could see clearly that she had something she wanted to discuss with her.


    "Sister-inw, can I go to Hangzhou with you? I want to... I want to give up the opportunity to study abroad."


    Huo Mei Shu was fiddling with her skirt, her eyes resolute.


    Rong Dai was surprised. Deep down, she didn''t want the little sister to give up her studies.


    The experiences of her previous life made her understand too clearly how cruel reality was for a woman.


    But the little sister was so determined, she probably wouldn''t listen even if she said those words.


    "Does your eldest brother agree?"


    Rong Dai asked.


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head, "Studying abroad was my own decision. My brothers won''t say anything."


    Then she paused, looking at Rong Dai hesitantly, "But what I''m worried about is, even if I stay, there still might not be any oue between us."


    "Sister-inw, then what should I do?"


    Rong Dai knew the little sister''s true nature, but this concerned her studies and love, so she didn''t dare make a rash promise.


    Huo Mei Shu could see her difficulty. She quickly smiled and said, "Sister-inw, I just want someone to support me."


    "I''ve liked him for many years, since high school, all the way through college. I''m afraid that if I confess, all my beautiful dreams will be shattered."


    Rong Dai took a deep breath. She could fully understand the little sister''s feelings.


    But why did she want to follow her to Hangzhou?


    "Then why do you want to go to Hangzhou with me? Shouldn''t you stay in Shengjing?"


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes instantly lit up, "Because he''s also going to Hangzhou. Second brother hired him as the music director for the drama you''re starring in."


    Rong Dai was a little surprised. Although she hadn''t been too involved with the new drama, the fact that Huo ShaoJie could discard the custom-made costumes and props and choose to use her manuscript as the original indicated that Huo ShaoJie was a perfectionist when it came to filming. So Gu Chengyan''s musical aplishments must be very high.


    She was looking forward to meeting this Gu Chengyan more and more.


    "Sister-inw, don''t worry, I guarantee I won''t affect your work! You don''t have a manager yet, right? How about I be your manager?"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her eagerly.


    Rong Dai turned to Huo Shao Ting for help. He immediately walked over.


    "I''m afraid we''ll have to discuss this with your eldest brother, Mei Shu."


    Rong Dai neither shook her head nor nodded.


    This was a big matter for the little sister, and although her rtionship with Shao Ting was good now, and her rtionship with her mother-inw had improved a lot, she still couldn''t decide on the little sister''s matters.


    Huo Mei Shu was not angry, but looked at Huo Shao Ting who had walked over and began to analyze a bunch of seemingly reasonable exnations.


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her, "Are you sure my wife won''t be waiting on you after she finishes filming andes back?"


    "Eldest brother! I''m serious! I can take good care of sister-inw."


    Huo Mei Shu became anxious in an instant. This was her only chance.


    If she missed this opportunity, it would be a lifelong regret between her and Gu Chengyan.


    "Besides, if it was someone else as sister-inw''s manager, would you feel at ease? Even if I don''t know much, I at least know some rules of the entertainment industry. I won''t let sister-inw suffer losses."

 Chapter 149: A Proposal With a Different Meaning

    <h4>Chapter 149</h4>


    Rong Dai saw that she was anxious and sighed softly in her heart. The youngdy of today was so simr to her former self in her previous life.


    "Shao Ting, it''s okay. There''s Shao Jie in the crew, and Mei Shu knows more than I do, so she just needs to work a little harder."


    Rong Dai still couldn''t help but chime in. She understood too well the feeling of silent torment.


    Moreover, although she had gradually epted everything new here recently, there were still some things she didn''t understand.


    The youngdy was born and raised in this era. She knew more than Rong Dai did.


    There were some things Rong Dai couldn''t ask others about. Having the youngdy by her side would make her feel more at ease.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her gratefully and hurriedly nodded.


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at Huo Mei Shu. A few secondster, he uttered: "Convince mom yourself first."


    Huo Mei Shu''s face instantly copsed. Given what had just happened, it would be a miracle if mom agreed.


    But she had her ways!


    After the concert ended, their family unusually dined out. They even had a video call with Mrs. Huo before dinner.


    "I''ll take you somewhere."


    After dinner, Huo Shao Ting put his arms around her slender waist from behind and gently said.


    "Where to?" Rong Dai very much enjoyed the time together with him. Huo Shao Ting''s thoughtfulness and meticulousness made her feel very reassured.


    "You''ll know when you get there."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t reveal it. He lowered his head and kissed her earlobe, then led her out and into the elevator.


    "Sister-inw, where are you guys going?"


    Seeing the couple leave, Huo Mei Shu asked, but was frightened into silence by Huo Shao Ting''s icy stare!


    Huo Shao Ting took her to the rooftop of the hotel. Despite it being almost the end of September, Corlin''s heat persisted even at night.


    The rooftop of the hotel was decorated very cozily, with flowers, candles, and star-shaped lights entwined around the trellises.


    Nine hundred and ny-nine red roses were surrounded by candlelight, and the sultry air was full of floral fragrance.


    "Do you like it?"


    Huo Shao Ting let go of her hand and walked to the other end of the red roses to ask her.


    Rong Dai''s heart pounded rapidly. She looked at him in surprise, her cheeks flushed, and nodded.


    Stripped of all glory, she was just an ordinary woman who also longed for her husband''s care.


    In her previous life, her heart hadcked. But in this life, Huo Shao Ting had satisfied her in every way.


    Her eyes grew a little moist. The vibrant fiery roses set her heart aze. She had never experienced being cherished so much by someone.


    Huo Shao Ting really loved her wholeheartedly.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting. This is...this is the first time someone has done this for me."


    Her voice was a little choked up.


    The past was gradually fading in her mind, but Huo Shao Ting''s feelings were real.


    "Rong Dai, will you be my wife?"


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly knelt down on one knee and took out a diamond ring from his pocket.


    The beautiful diamond reflected a dazzling brilliance in the candlelight.


    Rong Dai was stunned, looking at him with somewhat nk eyes.


    Seeing the pigeon egg-sized diamond ring, her heart pounded rapidly!


    Joy spread from her heart and permeated every cell of her being!


    Although she and Huo Shao Ting were already together, this meant something different to her.


    Although she hadn''t told Huo Shao Ting about her previous life in words, he knew.


    She also understood his meaning.


    Amidst the joy, she was deeply moved. Her nose tingled and her eyes involuntarily reddened.


    She looked at the calm, wise man before her in the candlelight. He wasn''t just anyone, he was her husband.


    The man who would spend his entire life with her.


    "Sister-inw, hurry up and say yes!"


    Not knowing where she had popped up from, Huo Mei Shu was holding up her phone to film this. Seeing Rong Dai hesitate to answer, she was the one getting anxious first!


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly grew hot. She looked at Huo Shao Ting tenderly, then walked over to him. She held out her left hand.


    "I do."


    The moment those words left her mouth, Rong Dai felt her life wasplete!


    As the cool, heavy diamond ring slid onto her ring finger, she felt his warmth in her palm. Her eyes involuntarily reddened.


    In her previous life, she was a noble and arrogant empress. Nothing was allowed to make her bow her proud head.


    Her identity as empress was like shackles, tightly confining her.


    She couldn''t feel the emperor''s love but had to manage everything in the harem for him, devoting all of herself to him.


    Yet in this life, she had yet to give anything, but had already received all of Huo Shao Ting''s tenderness.


    "Big brother, isn''t this..."


    Huo Mei Shu ran over with her phone. Seeing the diamond ring on Rong Dai''s hand, she looked at him in shock and began to speak.


    But she was frightened into silence by his piercing gaze before finishing her sentence!


    "What''s wrong with this ring?" Rong Dai asked in puzzlement.


    "I bought this with the first money I earned. It has special meaning to me. Using it as an engagement ring now is perfect." Huo Shao Ting exined himself, his gaze at her full of soft colors.


    Rong Dai suddenly felt the ring on her finger weigh a thousand pounds. She looked at Huo Shao Ting with a resolute gaze, "I''ll take good care of it. You''ve given it to me, so there''s no taking it back."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly. He lowered his head and kissed her forehead, staring sharply at Huo Mei Shu, who very tactfully ran back down.


    Huo Mei Shu happily showed the video she had taken to Lady Lu Zheng, touting the benefits of her bing Rong Dai''s agent.


    Upstairs, Rong Dai leaned against Huo Shao Ting. Her whole body felt as soft as a ball of cotton.


    Bang bang bang!


    Suddenly the sky was filled with many dazzling fireworks. Rong Dai was startled and quickly looked up. She was instantly stunned.


    The brilliant fireworks lit up almost the entire Corlin sky.


    The nearly fifteen-minute long fireworks finally formed severalrge words: I love you, Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks burned hotly. She hadn''t expected this man to express his feelings so vigorously.


    "I can do a lot of silly things as long as you like them," Huo Shao Ting whispered in her ear, his voice mellow and seductive.


    He just wanted her to know his feelings.


    Rong Dai felt her spine tingle again and again, her palms sweating again and again. Her cheeks burned and her heart pounded as if about to jump out of her throat!


    If a man had said such things to her in her previous life, she would have only found him frivolous.


    But it was different here. She knew Huo Shao Ting was a man of action who liked to say things and act on them.


    She could understand his feelings. He just wanted her to feel assured and at ease.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    She looked at his face slightly tilted, recalling the time when she had first arrived. She had never imagined she would intersect with Huo Shao Ting this way, and that their feelings would have developed to such an indescribable depth.

 Chapter 150: Don鈥檛 Be Your Canary

    <h4>Chapter 150</h4>


    That night, the couple did not return to the Huo residence and spent the night outside, indulging in passion throughout the night. As a result, Rong Dai felt sore and weak when she got up early in the morning, and looked at Huo Shao Ting resentfully.


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her fondly, reaching out to tidy her disheveled hair. "I just can''t bear to part from you. You''re going to Hang City to film, it will take at least seven or eight months, maybe even longer."


    As he spoke, his eyes also contained some resentment: "That means I won''t get to see you for a long time. I can''t leave Shengjing for now."


    He didn''t want to be separated from her for even a minute. Ever since meeting her, he realized how wrong his previous thoughts had been.


    Rong Dai nced at him, feeling helpless and sweet at the same time.


    Of course she knew what he was thinking. She was also reluctant to be apart from him for such a long time.


    But longing for love was not her strength. Otherwise, in her previous life she would not have been able to let go of the Emperor so quickly.


    She still had things to do here, which was different from her previous life.


    Women could have their own careers, careers brought money, so they wouldn''t be controlled by others everywhere.


    Although the dowry left by Imperial Concubine Ya was abundant, it would have been enough for an ordinary family to live a lifetime.


    But those were not earned by her own hands, it was not as reassuring as using her own money.


    She and Huo Shao Ting could be a married couple, but when apart, she was still herself.


    In her previous life, she had status, looks and talent, but unfortunately she was not a man. No matter how clever she was, she still had to rely on men and drift along as a decorative essory for men.


    She had lived that kind of life long enough in her previous life, she was unwilling to live like that again.


    Huo Shao Ting leaned on the bed with one hand, looking down at her. His deep eyes were full of tenderness, and he gently caressed her cheek with one hand. "I understand."


    "Do whatever you want, I''ll support you behind you anytime."


    His support made Rong Dai''s heart soften.


    She didn''t believe in perfection before, but this word was fully demonstrated in Huo Shao Ting.


    He was the perfect man.


    Looking at the man so close to her, their breathing intertwined, and Rong Dai''s heart skipped a beat!


    Although the two had seen each other naked and were very intimate, such intimacy always made both of their hearts throb, the implicit passion lingering.


    "Shao Ting..."


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting, her eyes full of feelings, and unconsciously murmured his name.


    This man had given her a lot, she was also unwilling to be coy.


    Her shapely arms took the initiative to wrap around his shoulders. Huo Shao Ting''s heart pounded, the passion in his deep eyes intensified, and his voice was slightly hoarse as he responded to her.


    After a bout of clouds and rain, Rong Dai was even more reluctant to move as shey in bed.


    Huo Shao Ting called for room service and ordered breakfast.


    After the couple had breakfast, Rong Dai looked at the sunny day outside the hotel window, thinking of the ten years she spent in the cold pce in her previous life, when she loved sunny days like this the most.


    "Shao Ting, are you going to thepany today?"


    She asked him.


    Following her line of sight, Huo Shao Ting saw the sunshine outside the window. He came over and hugged her, kissing her neck, and asked gently, "Want to go out for a walk?"


    Rong Dai nodded. "I was confined in the cold pce for ten years behind high walls. I like sunny days like this."


    After speaking, she leaned her face against his.


    The warmth in his arms made her reluctant to leave, and also gave her a sense of security.


    She didn''t admit to the things in her previous life, but sometimes she would mention one or two sentences.


    Hearing her say this, Huo Shao Ting''s arms around her tightened again and again.


    He kissed her cheek again, his voice sonorous, "You won''t feel cold with me. Since you like it, let''s go out for a walk."


    "Do you know how to ride a horse?"


    Huo Shao Ting asked her.


    Hearing about horse riding, Rong Dai''s eyes lit up at once.


    In her previous life, her equestrian skills were taught by her father. She often rode horses in the Rong residence. But after marrying the Emperor, such times gradually diminished.


    Especially during those ten years in the cold pce, she increasingly missed the times in the Rong residence.


    "Is there a racetrack here?"


    She looked at him in pleasant surprise.


    Seeing her ask this, Huo Shao Ting knew that she could ride. He exerted some strength to pull her out of the quilt.


    "Shengjing is the capital of China, what is there not to find?"


    Rong Dai nodded and got up to wash up.


    After she came out, Huo Shao Ting brought her a bag of clothes.


    After the couple changed, they left the hotel and went to Mn Racetrack.


    Mn Racetrack was well known in Shengjing and the industry. Rong Dai''s mood opened up again when she saw the vast grasnd.


    The couple changed into riding clothes. Huo Shao Ting had his own horses here, so there was no need to pick again.


    "Mrs. Huo, these are the best horses in our racetrack."


    The manager led the couple and introduced diligently.


    Although Rong Dai hadn''t touched a horse for more than ten years, some things prated her soul.


    A faint smile appeared on her face. "No need, I''ll pick it myself."


    The manager was stunned for a moment and nced at Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t say anything, his gaze fixed on her all the time.


    Rong Dai went to pick a horse. In her previous life, she often followed her father and brothers to the military camp. The warhorses in the army were the best, and she could identify them at a nce.


    "This one."


    She patted a sweatblood horse.


    "Mrs. Huo has great taste. This sweatblood horse is precious, agile, powerful, but this sweatblood horse has a fierce temperament. Even our horse trainers can barely tame it."


    "For your safety, we rmend a more docile Mongolian horse. These few are very good."


    Rong Dai looked confidently at the sweatblood horse with its whole body golden brown. This was a rare good horse.


    "It''s better if it has a fierce temper. Riding a docile one is boring."


    Her equestrian skills were taught by her father personally. What kind of fiery horse had she not handled in her previous life? She wanted the sense of aplishment after taming it.


    "This..."


    The manager looked at Huo Shao Ting hesitantly. This sweatblood horse was bought by the racetrack from abroad at a high price, but its temperament was too fiery that even the horse trainers were helpless.


    Most of the people who came to their racetrack were upper ss. If something happened to the customers while riding such a fiery horse, it would be troublesome.

 Chapter 151: Remuneration for Embroidery

    <h4>Chapter 151</h4>


    "Do as she says,"


    Huo Shaoting said tly to the manager without looking at him, his gaze following Rong Dai the whole time.


    The manager had no choice but to have the horse brought out.


    When they got to the paddock, worried something might happen, the manager called over two horse trainers, but unexpectedly the hot-blooded horse was extremely spirited and directly kicked and injured one of the trainers.


    "President Huo, this horse is truly dangerous. Even the trainers can''t handle it. If Mrs. Huo were to get injured..."


    The manager was extremely anxious. Who in Shengjing didn''t know about Mrs. Huo''s prominence?


    Especially now, seeing the loving couple, if something happened to her at the racetrack, they might as well close up shop.


    "You''re more of a scaredy cat than me, a woman. I''m the one who wants to ride this horse. I already told you the precautions more than three times. If something happens, I''ll take responsibility for it myself. It has nothing to do with your racetrack. Does this set your mind at ease?"


    Seeing the manager still chattering away, Rong Dai couldn''t help but knit her brows and speak up impatiently.


    "Understand?"


    Huo Shaoting saw she was getting annoyed and swept an indifferent gaze over the manager.


    The manager''s face froze and he didn''t dare say anything more.


    "Give me the reins."


    Rong Dai held out her hand to the trainer. The trainer hesitated a moment before handing over the reins.


    Taking the reins in hand, Rong Dai went up and stroked the horse, then nimbly and adeptly mounted it.


    Seeing her valiant bearing, Huo Shaoting couldn''t conceal his smile as he too mounted his horse.


    "Shaoting, dare you race me?"


    Rong Dai pulled the reins taut, a confident smile on her face. She was like a shining beacon drawing eyes.


    Huo Shaoting squeezed his horse''s belly to ride up beside her and nced at her mount: "Are you sure nothing will happen?"


    That horse had been so fierce just now, kicking the trainer violently.


    Rong Dai tilted her head slightly to look at him, yanking the reins and spurring her horse forward ahead of him.


    The manager''s face went deathly pale, but after watching for a while and seeing the unruly, hot-blooded horse actually docile under Rong Dai''s handling, he felt relieved.


    Huo Shaoting was also quite skilled at riding. He followed closely on Rong Dai''s heels, watching her directing the horse with great excitement. Huo Shaoting felt his life was nowplete.


    After tiring themselves out riding, the couple took a break at the paddock.


    The facilities at Mn Racetrack were veryprehensive, with a hotel and restaurant, making it a great ce for a vacation.


    "I haven''t had this much fun in a long time. Today was wonderful!"


    Rong Dai came out of the bathroom, drying her hair with a towel. Her cheeks were still flushed and her delight was unconcealed in her eyes.


    Hearing this, Huo Shaoting raised a brow, his voice going up a notch, "Say that again? What do you mean it''s been a long time? Are you saying you haven''t been happy recently?"


    Rong Dai knew what he was getting at and nced slyly at him, grumbling: "You know that''s not what I meant."


    Now she was behaving more and more wifely before Huo Shaoting, simply unwilling to keep up pretenses and act all proper and demure.


    "How about we stay here for two more days? What do you think?"


    Huo Shaoting held her, restless at the thought that she''d be away from him for months.


    "What''s this? Are you nning to stop going to court early from now on?"


    Rong Dai looked at him smilingly, a hint of craftiness in her eyes.


    Huo Shaoting just held her, not saying anything.


    He''d never imagined a woman could upy such an important ce in his heart. Before her it was like nothing else mattered.


    "We have plenty of time ahead. A couple days makes no difference. Let''s head back early."


    Seeing him silent, Rong Dai also put her arms around his waist.


    By the time the couple returned to the Huo residence, dinner time had already passed, but the family had all eaten out.


    Huo Shaoting didn''t deal withpany affairs aftering home, instead heading straight for his study.


    Rong Dai had just exited the kitchen after drinking water when Mother-inw happened to return, beaming happily.


    "Mother, did something delightful happen to put you in such high spirits?"


    Rong Dai very obediently said this, then went to pour a ss of water for Lu Zheng.


    After changing into slippers, Lu Zheng took an envelope of cash out of her purse and handed it to Rong Dai, "This is for the quilt cover you embroidered, 50,000 in total."


    Rong Dai epted it without counting.


    50,000 was far below what she had expected.


    But Mother-inw had made it very clear earlier, so of course she would have noints.


    She just felt a bit regretful. For her embroidery, this price was dirt cheap.


    But now she had no time to focus on embroidery. The new drama was about to start filming and was already generating huge buzz online.


    It was a grand pce drama production. With Lu Yao and Huo Shaojie as the leads, manyizens had high hopes for the drama.


    Not only was she a neer, but a disdained wealthy madam.


    Abruptly bing the lead, although her audition tape had leaked and someizens acknowledged her skills, the vast majority still didn''t buy it and were just waiting tough at her failure.


    This would be a trial for her.


    She didn''t care about the onlinementary, but she had high standards for herself to begin with.


    Most importantly, she really liked this drama. Many aspects were very simr to her past life experiences.


    So now her primary concern was this drama. She''d think about everything else after it finished filming.


    "Thank you for your efforts."


    Rong Dai obediently said this, then went to pour a ss of water for Lu Zheng.


    Seeing her so sensible and considerate, and getting along well with Eldest Young Master recently, Lu Zheng felt much more at ease.


    "The day after tomorrow is Old Lady Qiao''s birthday. Lady Qiao really likes the quilt cover you embroidered, so she invited you to attend. Can you find time?"


    Lu Zheng asked her.


    Rong Dai looked at Mother-inw. She was perceptive, naturally grasping Mother-inw''s intent.


    Mother-inw wanted to bring her along, recognizing her status, deliberately having her make an appearance at these asions.


    "Then thank you, Mother, for the chance."


    Rong Dai nodded. She didn''t really like these socializing opportunities, but this was an olive branch from Mother-inw that she couldn''t refuse.


    As Huo Shaoting''s wife, with the Huo family''s power and influence in Shengjing, she might not like dealing with these things, but she couldn''t remain ignorant.


    "Do I need to prepare any gifts?"


    She asked another question. She wasn''t too clear on the etiquette of this time period, better to ask clearly.


    After drinking the water, Lu Zheng set the cup on the coffee table. "No need. You''re the junior generation. I''ve already prepared the gifts."


    Rong Dai nodded, seeing Mother-inw upstairs before bringing the cups into the kitchen and going upstairs to tell Huo Shaoting about it.


    "If you run into people you don''t like, you don''t need to pay them any mind."


    Huo Shaoting advised her. Their wedding had been very low-key at first. Even if social circles knew about it, few had seen her in person.


    Now Mother was willing to take her out. He knew what this signified, and certainly wouldn''t oppose it.

 Chapter 152: The Theft of Her Embroidery

    <h4>Chapter 152</h4>


    On Old Madam Qiao''s birthday banquet day, Rong Dai got up early and carefully picked out a proper set of clothes. She had a good figure, long straight legs, and a pretty face - she was just like a clothes hanger.


    "Don''t talk too much with other men," Huo Shao Ting held her waist very domineeringly and cautioned her.


    Rong Daiughed and struggled out of his embrace, "I''m just going with mother to attend Old Madam Qiao''s birthday banquet. Hearing you say that, it''s as if I''m going matchmaking!"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her and took a deep breath. He lowered his head and lightly pecked her lips, "I''lle to pick you upter."


    "No need, I''lle back with mother," Rong Dai shook her head.


    "Your mother has a driver to pick her up. We''ll eat out tonight," Huo Shao Ting insisted. Now he wished he could apany her 24 hours a day.


    Rong Dai helplessly nodded.


    After going downstairs, she went to the Qiao''s house with her mother-inw.


    Old Madam Qiao was celebrating her longevity birthday, and the Qiao family had a red revolutionary background, so the guests were all prestigious people in the circle.


    Seeing Lu Zheng bringing Rong Dai over, many people couldn''t help but gossip in private.


    Rong Dai pretended not to hear. She apanied Lu Zheng to see Old Madam Qiao and Madam Qiao.


    The Lu family and the Qiao family had a long-standing rtionship. Madam Qiao and Lu Zheng were ssmates and best friends, so of course the two had endless conversations.


    Rong Dai didn''t feel good about eavesdropping, so she found an excuse to go to a secluded corner in the yard and watched the bustling crowd from afar.


    She had originally wanted to sneak away for some peace and quiet, and was toozy to listen to idle gossip. However, things didn''t go as she wished.


    "Shi Ning, your embroidery skills are getting better and better! With you at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, you are definitely the most suitable sessor to Master Shi Yue''s mantle!"


    "Yes, yes! Nowadays, good embroideries from the Brocade Embroidery Workshop sell out as soon as theye out. If you weren''t so busy, Shi Ning, I would ask you to embroider something for me."


    Rong Dai looked in the direction of the voices. Under the flower trellis in the yard, several youngdies were chatting. One of them was Shi Ning.


    "Shi Ning, did you embroider this too? This Nan Mountain Green Pine is embroidered so well, your skills have improved again!"


    The Brocade Embroidery Workshop was very famous nationally. Each of its embroideries was exquisite and a masterpiece. Coupled with the poprity of Hanfu in recent years, the workshop''s embroideries were even more popr.


    These youngdies pursued such leading international trendy brands. The Ji family was also quite prestigious in Shengjing.


    As the sessor personally cultivated by Master Shi Yue, Shi Ning was naturally very popr.


    Rong Dai listened carefully and saw the opened Nan Mountain Green Pine embroidery when she heard what they said.


    She was of course very familiar with this embroidery, because it was from her own hands.


    "So shemissioned it."


    Rong Dai suddenly understood, but didn''t think too much about it. She was about to leave when she saw Shi Ning nod and admit that the Nan Mountain Green Pine was from her own hands.


    Rong Dai immediately frowned.


    It wasn''t that she wanted to make trouble, but that embroidery was from her hands.


    Shi Ning admitted it was embroidered by her, and she couldn''t tolerate it.


    It was like a thief had stolen her work.


    If she hadn''t happened to hear it today, she could have let it go. But since she heard it, she wouldn''t just sit idly by.


    Moreover, embroidery was something she nned to develop as her future career, and Shi Ning''s actions had already infringed upon her rights and interests.


    She walked over to the flower trellis. Seeing her appear, Shi Ning''s expression changed slightly. She didn''t expect Rong Dai to be here.


    She took a special look at where Rong Dai had been sitting just now - she must have heard everything Shi Ning said earlier.


    She had brought this embroidery today originally intending to pass off someone else''s work as her own.


    But she didn''t expect Lu Zheng to also bring Rong Dai, so she could only gift something else instead.


    These youngdies were chasing after the Brocade Embroidery Workshop. The Ji family was also quite prestigious in Shengjing.


    She was used to being sought after, and just casually went along with thesedies'' words earlier, admitting it was hers without thinking carefully.


    But she didn''t know Rong Dai had heard everything clear as day.


    As an embroiderer herself, she certainly knew how precious embroideries were to their embroiderers.


    Seeing Rong Daie over, she knew something was wrong.


    She immediately went up and revealed a smile on her gentle and graceful face, "Madam Huo, I didn''t expect you to be here too."


    Rong Dai gazed at her. Her face was very deceiving.


    Gentle and beautiful, she was the type that elders really liked.


    Seeing her beseeching eyes, Rong Dai pursed her lips tightly.


    "I''ll exin to youter. Today is Old Madam Qiao''s birthday banquet."


    Shi Ning quickly lowered her voice and spoke very fast.


    Rong Dai looked at her and frowned slightly. She thought about how her mother-inw had brought her here today out of good intentions.


    If she directly exposed Shi Ning''s lies now, she could defend the rights to the embroidery, but it might ruin the olddy''s birthday banquet mood today.


    "Alright," she agreed after thinking it over several times.


    Shi Ning immediately breathed a sigh of relief when she agreed.


    When she saw those few people still ogling the Nan Mountain Green Pine, she felt a little angry and jealous.


    Rong Dai didn''t say much before leaving. She wasn''t familiar with those youngdies either.


    They also looked down on someone like her who married into a prominent family. Of course they wouldn''t take the initiative to make small talk with her.


    Rong Dai was quite happy to be left in peace.


    "Madam Huo, can youe over for a moment?"


    Taking advantage when everyone was toasting and chatting merrily, Shi Ning found an opportunity to see her.


    Rong Dai nodded and followed her to the Qiao family''s garden.


    "The embroidery technique on that Nan Mountain Green Pine is exquisite, Madam Huo. Just now, I was about to leave and afraid they would pester me. After all, the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s embroideries are in short supply now.


    "I thought casually agreeing would stop their probing, and didn''t intend to offend you. Thank you for not exposing me just now. When the timing is right, I will find an opportunity to exin clearly."


    Shi Ning spoke very calmly and frankly.


    Rong Dai looked at her. Since she had already said so, Rong Dai didn''t feel good about pressing her further.


    "Miss Shi knows embroidery is tedious work, and cherishes her own embroideries. Since Miss Shi has said this, I won''t make a big deal out of it either.


    "I just hope Miss Shi doesn''t pass off others'' work as her own again in the future. Once a misunderstanding arises, it is very difficult to exin clearly."


    Shi Ning''s expression was a little stiff as she stared at Rong Dai. In her heart, she certainly looked down on Rong Dai.


    But Rong Dai''s embroidery skills were good, this was something she had to admit.


    "Thank you for the reminder, Madam Huo. If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave first."


    Shi Ning didn''t want to say any more. Rong Dai didn''t keep her either. Although Shi Ning''s exnation was a bit far-fetched, she didn''t feel good about being too aggressive either.

 Chapter 153: I Like General Huo

    <h4>Chapter 153</h4>


    The incident with Shi Ning could be considered a small interlude. The other party had already apologized and promised to exin at an appropriate time.


    She would naturally not dwell too much on this matter either, so she ate and drank by herself, watching arge group of people celebrate the olddy''s birthday.


    The olddy was hale and hearty, but Rong Dai had spent a long time in the harem in her previous life, so she also knew a little about medical skills.


    The Qiao family''s olddy was most likely just having a temporary burst of vitality. She probably wouldn''tst too long. But at the olddy''s age, whether it was a celebration or mourning, it was all the same.


    Although she held the title of Lady Huo, and had caused such a stir in Shenjing recently, none of the noblewomen and youngdies present were willing to stand with her or even talk to her.


    Rong Dai didn''t mind the solitude, but she could feel the huge gap.


    She could stand here today, watching these upper ss people reveling, entirely relying on the Huo family background.


    Without the Huo family, she probably wouldn''t even get through the doors of the Qiao family.


    But she didn''t feel too disappointed. In her previous life, she had attended countless banquets evenrger than this one.


    Although the etiquette here was different from her previous life, she had already spent some time here and was somewhat familiar with it.


    She liked the champagne here. The aroma made her feel happy.


    "Ms. Rong."


    She was drinking by herself in a corner when she heard someone calling her from behind.


    She instinctively turned around to see a woman in her mid tote twenties smiling and walking towards her with a wine ss.


    This woman was quite beautiful, with elegant and delicate features. She had an oval face that gave off a gentle impression, very pleasing to the eye without any aggressiveness.


    Because of her facial features, she had a somewhat world-weary look when not smiling.


    Rong Dai had some impression of this woman. She had seen her during the birthday celebrations earlier.


    She was Qiao Wanzhou, the Qiao family''s daughter.


    "Ms. Qiao," she politely acknowledged.


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled and walked to her side. Very generously, she clinked her ss against Rong Dai''s.


    "Don''t mind these people, Ms. Rong."


    She took a small sip from her ss, her eyes gleaming with some sharpness, like a detached observer looking at the noisy crowd, with a hint of mockery in her gaze.


    Rong Dai looked at her curiously. This Ms. Qiao clearly did not like these people very much.


    But from her interactions with them earlier, she seemed to know how to handle herself.


    Worldly yet not worldly.


    "Ms. Qiao, I''m not bothered at all."


    With her experience from her previous life, what vicissitudes of life had she not seen? How could she care what these strangers thought of her?


    As long as she was happy with her own life, that was all that mattered.


    These people had no bearing on her life, and she had no intention of trying to please anyone.


    "How they treat me makes no difference."


    Seeing Qiao Wanzhou''s raised eyebrows, Rong Dai exined further.


    Qiao Wanzhou was a bit special. She didn''t give off the arrogance of a spoiled rich girl like Shi Ning. Although a bit aloof, she was not unlikable.


    Qiao Wanzhou looked at her in surprise for a few seconds before responding, "You''re not like how the media portrayed you at all. The media really does kill people."


    Rong Dai''s faint smile remained, maintaining herposure and grace: "I''ll take that as Ms. Qiao''spliment."


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled lightly, casually flicking her hair in a very open and rxed manner, nothing contrived about it at all. In fact, it made people feelfortable.


    She first withdrew her hand, took another sip of red wine, then squinted at the lively crowd in the distance.


    "Actually, I''ve always really liked Huo Shao Ting."


    Rong Dai looked at her in surprise. She knew how outstanding Huo Shao Ting was. Although she didn''t know Qiao Wanzhou well, given the Qiao family''s background, her status was certainly not low either.


    And Qiao Wanzhou gave her the impression of being no simple character.


    Seeing her impassive reaction, just a brief sh of surprise that quickly faded, Qiao Wanzhou became puzzled instead.


    "Aren''t you angry?"


    Rong Dai smiled faintly, "Ms. Qiao, you jest. Shao Ting is outstanding, and so is Ms. Qiao. That you like him reflects well on my judgement. Why would I be angry?"


    Qiao Wanzhou sized her up in a somewhat aggressive manner, then spoke after a few seconds: "You''re different from how the news reports portrayed you. The media really does kill people."


    Rong Dai''s faint smile remained. She maintained herposure and propriety: "I''ll take that as Ms. Qiao''spliment."


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled lightly and withdrew her gaze, continuing to watch the revelry in the Qiao family''s hall.


    "I''ve liked him since I was little. He''s an outstanding man. I thought that when I became a bit more aplished, I might have a chance to get to know him.


    But I didn''t expect him to get married so soon. Well, opportunityes to those who are prepared."


    Qiao Wanzhou sighed lightly.


    Rong Dai didn''t respond. She was very curious about Qiao Wanzhou''s motive for saying these things to her.


    She was no ordinary woman. Such words were not enough to provoke her.


    Otherwise, in her previous life she probably wouldn''t have had to waste away in the Cold Pce, but would have been angered to death by the imperial consorts much sooner.


    "I''ve been wanting to see what kind of person you are. Now that I''ve met you today, seeing is believing."


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke candidly, without any coyness. It made people feelfortable instead of disgusted.


    "Don''t worry, I''m not saying this because I want topete with you."


    She turned to look at Rong Dai with a smile in her eyes.


    "I observed you for a long time just now. I find you very interesting and wanted to get acquainted since after all, Huo Shao Ting is no ordinary man. The woman he married must have something special about her."


    Rong Dai felt somewhat exasperated inside. If Qiao Wanzhou knew about the original host''s interactions with the Huo family, would she still be able to say these words?


    "To be honest, if Huo Shao Ting hadn''t chosen you, I really would have tried my luck. After all, a man as outstanding as him is as rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns in Shenjing!"


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled and tidied her hair. Her frank attitude really made it impossible for Rong Dai to dislike her, and even made her appreciate the other woman a bit.


    "Ms. Rong, don''t worry. I''m not saying this because I want topete with you."


    She turned to look at Rong Dai with a smile in her eyes.


    "I watched you for a long time just now and find you very interesting. I wanted to get to know you since after all, Huo Shao Ting is no ordinary man. The woman he married must have something special about her."


    Rong Dai felt somewhat exasperated inside. If Qiao Wanzhou knew about the original host''s interactions with the Huo family, would she still be able to say these words?


    "I saw the video of your audition. You have a lot of explosive power. You''re a formidable opponent."


    Hearing her say this, Rong Dai became puzzled.


    "I also have high hopes for this drama. I''ve taken on the role of the main antagonist. It''s been a long time since I''ve seen such an interesting work, and I really admire you, Ms. Rong. I look forward topeting with you."


    Qiao Wanzhou exined.

 Chapter 154: Take Good Care of General Huo

    <h4>Chapter 154</h4>


    Rong Dai was a little surprised. She didn''t expect Qiao Wanzhou to have such a family background and also be involved in the entertainment industry.


    Although she hadn''t been here long, she was aware of these aristocratic families. It was a good thing for their children to excel and bring glory to the family, but entering the entertainment industry was something they strongly disliked. This was a very strange phenomenon, almost an unspoken rule among these elite families.


    "Very unexpected?"


    Seeing her look of astonishment, Qiao Wanzhou asked with a smile.


    Rong Dai hid her surprise and showed an elegant smile, shaking her head slightly: "Just a little surprised, after all Miss Qiao''s family background is out in the open."


    "However, for Miss Qiao to make this choice, you must have faced considerable opposition at first."


    But Qiao Wanzhou just smiled lightly: "I like experiencing different lives, those characters in the scripts are very interesting. I''m in charge of my own life."


    Looking at the wine ss, her tone was light, but the determination and confidence in her voice was obvious.


    Rong Dai was rather curious about her now.


    "We''ll be working closely together on set from now on. I won''t ck off, and I also hope Miss Rong can show me praiseworthy skills. Feel free toe to me anytime for rehearsals, don''t let me down!"


    Someone in the distance walked over to Qiao Wanzhou. She smiled at Rong Dai and said.


    Rong Dai smiled shallowly and nodded: "Then I''ll have to ask Miss Qiao for more guidance."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s smile was generous yet bold. She lightly clinked Rong Dai''s wine ss again: "Keep a close eye on Chairman Huo. Such an outstanding man, I really find it hard to let go for now."


    "Although it''s despicable to steal a married man, if you already have problems between you, I won''t hesitate to make a move."


    Having said that, she turned to the guest with a gentle smile on her face.


    Rong Dai was a little amused. Was this her way of provoking her?


    After Qiao Wanzhou left, she took out her phone and searched for relevant information about her.


    Seeing the string of honors Qiao Wanzhou had obtained, she couldn''t help but be amazed. She didn''t look like a good girl at all.


    She was clearly a fierce woman!


    Qiao Wanzhou was only twenty-seven this year, yet she had already won the crown of Best Actress ten years ago!


    On her personal page, there were nearly thirty awards rted to performing.


    She put away her phone and looked at Qiao Wanzhou''s gentle smile as she chatted pleasantly with the others. She had to admire her.


    Generally speaking, girls with Qiao Wanzhou''s background, after finishing their studies, would mostly follow the family arrangements to get married.


    Then as a full-time housewife, raise children peacefully, and live a stagnant life.


    There were also a few who could conquer the world with their husbands after marriage, but such examples were few and far between.


    But obviously, Qiao Wanzhou had chosen the most difficult path.


    She believed that when Qiao Wanzhou chose this path at first, it must have been extremely difficult without the support of her family.


    Yet she was able to make such achievements on her own, she had to admire that.


    She suddenly looked forward to this drama even more. To be able to learn from such a master must be very exciting and beneficial.


    "Who are you looking at with such a bright smile?"


    Huo Shaoting''s voice suddenly sounded in her ear. Rong Dai turned her head when she heard it: "What are you doing here?"


    "Didn''t we agree to go out for dinner tonight?"


    Huo Shaoting frowned, following her previous line of sight to look at the crowd, trying to find out who she was looking at just now.


    Seeing him like this, Rong Dai felt a little helpless but also amused. This guy really had such a petty mind.


    "I was looking at Miss Qiao, that one over there."


    Rong Dai exined, raising her ss to point in a direction.


    Huo Shaoting nced over indifferently: "Don''t know her."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    She really wanted to know what Qiao Wanzhou saw in Huo Shaoting? This guy didn''t even know who she was.


    "She said she''s liked you since she was young. Just now she also said that if there are problems between us, she won''t hesitate to make a move on you. After all, a man like you is rare in Shengjing."


    Although she admired Qiao Wanzhou''s candor, there was still a hint of jealousy in her tone when she said this.


    "She won''t have that chance."


    Huo Shaoting held her slender hand, looking at her with determination, speaking very firmly.


    Rong Dai looked at the time. She actually hadn''t eaten much, just sipped some wine.


    "Didn''t you say you were going to take me to eat something delicious? I deliberately left space in my stomach waiting for your dinner."


    She put down her wine ss with a smile, not saying anything about what had happened under the arbor earlier. After all, it was just a trivial matter.


    "Let''s go after saying goodbye to Grandma."


    Huo Shaoting nodded, then took a redwood box from Zhang the assistant and walked with her towards the crowd.


    The originally lively crowd chatting and toasting went quiet when they saw Huo Shaoting appear, their eyes looking at him in unison.


    After all, Chairman Huo was known to all in Shengjing.


    Huo''s Enterprise now dominated the market at home and abroad, upying a huge market share. Even the country paid close attention to it.


    Seeing hime in person, and holding Rong Dai''s hand, the couple looking very loving, the gazes examining Rong Dai became even more obvious.


    After all, in the eyes of these madams and elite daughters, Rong Dai was just an ordinary person ofmon background. How could she be chosen by Huo Shaoting? To actually be the young Mrs. Huo?


    When Huo Shaoting was still unmarried, how many daughters of elite families had their eyes on this position!


    After all, not only was Huo''s Enterprise rich, but also powerful.


    With such money and power, being associated with Huo''s Enterprise would greatly raise a family''s status.


    But just as they harbored ulterior motives, Huo Shaoting married an ordinary woman who had nothing but her looks!


    For some of them with ambition, this was a huge loss!


    "Shao Ting, you came?"


    Lu Zheng was a little surprised. She knew her eldest son well, he extremely hated such asions.


    Huo Shaoting''s expression was indifferent: "I came to pick up Rong Dai for dinner. The driver will send you backter."


    Lu Zheng was stunned for a moment, then nodded.


    As long as her son was happy, she had no objection.


    And she also knew that her daughter-inw was about to go to Hang City for filming soon. Her son would miss her, she understood that.


    Rong Dai was a little embarrassed. This guy spoke too directly.


    But she knew clearly that Huo Shaoting had the capital to do so.


    Otherwise, anyone else saying such words in this kind of asion would surely be ridiculed.


    After the couple gave Madam Qiao a gift to congratte her, they left the Qiao residence. Now many elite madams drew close to Lu Zheng, unable to refrain from asking about the young couple.

 Chapter 155: Heading to Hangzhou

    <h4>Chapter 155</h4>


    Because Rong Dai was going to Hang City to film, Huo Shao Ting took every opportunity he had to take her around Shengjing these days.


    They ate, drank, yed and had fun experiencing almost everything together, as if he hated not being able to try everything with her.


    "Big brother, can you stop this? Your sister-inw is not leaving forever."


    Huo Mei Shu nced at the time on her wristwatch, and said to Huo Shao Ting, who was still hugging Rong Dai and reluctant to let go, in a very helpless tone.


    Half an hour had passed since the luggage was packed and ready to go to the airport.


    However, during this half hour, her big brother was still clinging to her sister-inw and showing excessive intimacy!


    In the past three months, the amount of dog food she had to eat every day was measured in tons!


    Huo Mei Shu thought she could endure it very well, but she realized that she had underestimated her big brother''s ability to be lovey-dovey.


    It was everywhere, taking every chance it could get!


    It was simply outrageous!


    But her sister-inw''s endurance was astonishingly good. At the beginning, because there were other people at home, she would remind her husband to restrain himself a little.


    Now she probably couldn''t stand her husband''s passion anymore, so she just gave up resisting.


    She, the idle person at home, was the victim, as the first thing she did every day after opening her eyes was eat dog food.


    When Rong Dai heard her sister-inw''s voice, her cheeks flushed red, and she hurriedly struggled free from Huo Shao Ting''s arms.


    "I have to go now, or I''ll miss the ne."


    She was also reluctant to part inside, and she also knew he was reluctant inside.


    But she was going to work, she could not be willful.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with eyes full of resentment.


    Huo Mei Shu felt goosebumps all over her body. She never imagined that her big brother actually had this quality!


    "Sister-inw, let''s go, let''s go!"


    "If we don''t leave now, we really won''t make it. There''s the opening ceremony early tomorrow morning, and the director is treating the cast and crew to dinner tonight."


    "If you don''t want any special treatment, we have to hurry to the airport!"


    Huo Mei Shu really couldn''t stand it anymore. She jogged over, grabbed Rong Dai''s arm, and half dragged her out the door.


    Rong Dai nodded and followed her out to the car.


    As she watched the Huo mansion gradually shrink and disappear around the corner, Rong Dai felt a little mncholy in her heart.


    Although she hadn''t been here for a long time, her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting and the Huo family was getting better and better.


    When you spend a lot of time together, feelings are hard to separate.


    "Sister-inw, don''t be unhappy."


    "Although my big brother can take care of you and the Huo family can take care of you, I don''t think you''re the kind of woman who only suits staying at home as a virtuous wife and loving mother."


    "You shine, and I think sister-inw you can do what you want to do, and doesn''t my big brother also support you?"


    Seeing her looking a little mncholy, Huo Mei Shu turned on some light music while driving, and tried to cheer her up.


    What she said was already very subtle, but Rong Dai understood the deeper meaning.


    She knew the little sister-inw meant well for her.


    After all, she was a young mistress from a prominent family who had just married into the family. Taking on such a big production as her first project had inevitably attracted a lot of unfriendlyments online.


    "I know. It''s just that I''ve never left Shengjing before. I heard Hang City is the most illustrious ce in the south of the Yangtze River."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, changing the topic.


    "Of course! After you finish shooting, we can go sightseeing properly!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded and chatted away enthusiastically, introducing the city to her.


    Rong Dai listened very carefully, and had a good understanding of Hang City by the time they reached the airport.


    Hang City was quite simr to the Suzhou and Hangzhou she knew in her previous life, but after all, it was the world a thousand yearster, so the changes must be very big.


    The two sisters-inw got out of the car. Rong Dai looked at the huge airport, passengersing and going in a hurry, the rolling electronic screens announcing flight information.


    This was going to be her second time "flying up to the heavens".


    Her first ne ride experience wasn''t very good, after all, she was coerced by Zuo Ran at that time.


    Who could have imagined that the long-cherished wishes of the ancients for thousands of years woulde true after a thousand years?


    Not only could you fly up to the heavens now, you could even go into space.


    All this was still very new and fresh to Rong Dai.


    After checking in, the two sisters-inw boarded the cabin.


    The two were in first ss, which was rtively morefortable.


    "This is just a domestic flight, mostly small jets, so it''s a bit more cramped. When we go abroad to y next time and take an international jumbo jet, it will be even morefortable than this."


    Seeing her looking curious and excited, Huo Mei Shu exined to her.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but light up, and though she was extremely curious inside, she held back from asking, otherwise she would reveal too much.


    Although the little sister had a straightforward and optimistic personality, she could also be careless at times.


    But everyone has their careful moments.


    No matter what she said in front of Shao Ting, it was fine, since he already knew her identity.


    But it was different with the little sister-inw.


    Although she also trusted the little sister, such shocking and outrageous matters were still better kept among fewer people.


    "Miss Rong, you''re on this flight too!"


    Just as the sisters-inw were talking, a voice suddenly drifted in gently with a scent of perfume, and Qiao Wanzhou''s voice rang out above their heads.


    "Sister Qiao?!"


    Huo Mei Shu looked up at her for a few seconds in surprise before eximing joyfully, and was about to jump up.


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled gently, put a slender finger to her lips to gesture for her to be quiet, her gaze falling on Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai smiled and nodded: "I didn''t expect Miss Qiao to be on the same flight."


    Qiao Wanzhou sat down, right behind the two.


    "Sister-inw, you know each other?" Huo Mei Shu was excited but also a little surprised.


    Rong Dai briefly recounted her visit to Qiao''s house for the olddy''s birthday party that day, and told her in passing that Qiao Wanzhou was the biggest viin in the drama.


    "Really?!"


    Huo Mei Shu was so shocked that she covered her mouth with her hands, unable to conceal the excitement in her eyes.


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled and nodded, flipping her beautiful hair over her shoulder.


    "It''s still confidential for now, until the announcement at the opening ceremony tomorrow."


    "I understand!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, looking clearly excited to be Qiao Wanzhou''s little fan.


    Rong Dai had specifically checked Qiao Wanzhou''s information. She was a powerful veteran actress.


    Although the little sister-inw was an unconstrained young miss of a prominent family, being a star-chaser was the most normal thing.


    When the ne was flying through the clouds, Rong Dai looked out the window at the fluffy white clouds outside.


    The brilliant sunlight spilled over the cloudyer, the flowing clouds surged, looking like a fairnd.


    Such scenery was nothing special for modern people, but to her it was a wonder.


    Watching the flowing clouds, she felt an indescribable marvel in her heart.


    Qiao Wanzhou and the little sister-inw were both asleep, leaving only her staring out the window,pletely engrossed.

 Chapter 156: The Treasure Wife

    <h4>Chapter 156</h4>


    It was only a two hour flight from Shengjing to Hang City. Rong Dai''s joyful mood had not yet dissipated when she arrived on the ground.


    It was drizzling in Hang City today. Looking at the sky in Hang City, Rong Dai had thousands of thoughts in her mind.


    Who could have imagined what the world would look like after a millennium of change? The extent of the changes were beyond what people from a millennium ago could have imagined.


    "It will take some time to get from here to the film and television city. What transportation will you take to get there?"


    Qiao Wanzhou did not put on the airs of a big star. Even though there was just a drizzle, the weather was still sultry. She wore a duck bill cap, mask, sunsses, and had her face wrapped up tight.


    "I booked high-speed rail tickets. But we have to leave the airport first and go to the high-speed rail station in Hang City. Sister Qiao, are you driving?"


    Huo Mei Shu nced at the itinerary. She had memorized her sister-inw''s schedule over the past few days. Otherwise, she would be the one suffering if she didn''t take good care of her sister-inw.


    Qiao Wanzhou said a few words to her agent next to her, then looked around, "Okay, let''s meet up when we get to the film and television city."


    "Although I''m eye-catching, your sister-inw here isn''t weak either. Pay attention to safety." She waved at them and left with her agent.


    The sisters-inw went to the high speed rail station and booked business ss seats. After much trouble, they finally arrived at the film and television city.


    "Sister-inw, what do you think of this hotel? If you don''t like it, we can book a different one, but it might be further away."


    "I checked - there are several TV shows filming in the film and television city recently, and the hotels nearby are all simr." Huo Mei Shu led her into the hotel.


    Rong Dai looked around the hotel and nodded, "It''s already very good, let''s just stay here."


    Although the imperial pce in her previous life was magnificent and luxurious, she was not the kind of affected, pretentious person who had to live somewhere just as extravagant as the pce before she would be satisfied.


    This was a five-star hotel with amenities like a garden, swimming pool, and gym. The facilities were veryprehensive.


    "Okay, my room is next to yours. The driver will bring up the luggage soon. Don''t close your door first. I''ll go take a look at my room."


    Huo Mei Shu was in a good mood and hummed a tune as she went out.


    Rong Dai sat in the chair by the window. She had been very happy before getting on the ne, but now that initial excitement had worn off and she was starting to feel a little tired.


    The room the little sister-inw had thoughtfully chosen had a nice view outside the window where you could see the film and television cityplex in the distance.


    After the luggage was delivered, Rong Dai changed into her own bedding she had brought from home, and reced the toiletries and hung up her clothes.


    To make it convenient for her to study, Huo Shao Ting had bought her a whole set of electronic devices.


    Rong Dai took out theptop, tablet, and other devices and ced them on the desk, and also put the whole box of scripts in ce.


    By the time she had everything organized, it was dusk.


    "Sister-inw, have you settled in? Dinner is at 7pm. We still have time to rest. Do you want to rest or go downstairs and walk around?" Huo Mei Shu came over from next door when she saw Rong Dai had just about finished unpacking, and asked her.


    Rong Dai wiped her hands and looked out the window at the scenery.


    "I want to take a bath to unwind. Do you want to take a bath too? Do you know where Junior Martial Brother is staying?"


    She remembered that Junior Martial Uncle hade a few days earlier, and Lu Ye hade even earlier, after attending little sister-inw''s concert.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded. When she saw Rong Dai''s makeup-free face, she suddenly snapped her fingers, "I almost forgot!"


    She rushed out again. Rong Dai smiled helplessly.


    Little sister-inw''s enthusiastic personality really was lovable. She was happy herself and made others happy too.


    Soon, Huo Mei Shu came back hugging four or five bags full of skincare and makeup products.


    "What are these?" Rong Dai was puzzled.


    "Skincare and makeup!"


    Huo Mei Shu put the things on the sofa and pped her hands. She reached out and touched Rong Dai''s cheeks.


    "Sister-inw, your skin is so good - smooth and delicate. You have to take good care of such nice skin. I''ve invited a very good skincare expert and makeup artist who should arrive tomorrow."


    "These skincare products are for moisturizing, anti-aging, especially moisturizing and deep cleansing. You must use them! Nice skin relies on good maintenance."


    "Especially since you''ll be wearing makeup for filming. Although you look very beautiful without makeup too, sister-inw, filming is different. Stage makeup contains a certain amount of metals. You have to take good care of your face!"


    "Otherwise, if something happens, big brother will definitely kill me!"


    Huo Mei Shu exined as she opened up the packages for her.


    Rong Dai was a little amused seeing the pile of bottles and jars the little sister-inw had prepared for her, all high-end brands.


    She understood the sister-inw''s intentions, so she didn''t refuse.


    But she had other ideas in her mind. In her previous life, she already knew about women''s skincare regimens.


    Many unmarried youngdies in the inner chambers were very knowledgeable about skincare. Ever since the Imperial Concubine entered the pce, the Emperor had grown increasingly cold towards her, and even had the Imperial Concubine help manage the affairs of the six pces.


    This made her much more free, since women in the previous life didn''t have as many hobbies as modern women.


    She had time to ponder many things, and had deeply grasped the essence of skincare.


    With medical science so advanced nowadays, traditional Chinese medicine had declined.


    But in her previous life, there was only Chinese medicine, and Western medical techniques had not yet been introduced.


    The essence that ancestors had passed down, and all those flowers and nts, each had their own wonderful uses.


    "When I have time, I''ll also make some lip balm...lipstick, blush, and some skincare creams and lotions. I''ll research it when I have the chance."


    Rong Dai said as she helped the little sister-inw unpack.


    She knew her skin was good - fair as snow, delicate as a petal, smooth and soft. She certainly didn''t want to ruin such nice skin. Most modern products contained additives and were far inferior to all-natural ones.


    "Sister-inw, what else can you not do?"


    Huo Mei Shu was stunned. Her sister-inw seemed to be able to do everything!


    Rong Dai smiled. If they really got down to it, besides some modern things she didn''t know how to do, she was proficient in pretty much everything else.


    Zither, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, horse riding, archery, cooking - she could do it all.


    "You''ll have to slowly find that out yourself."


    Rong Dai evaded giving a direct answer. Although she also wanted to conceal these talents as much as possible, the things she had learned in her previous life were still useful here.


    Also, in her previous life she had spent considerable effort to learn these skills, so she was reluctant to just abandon them.


    Therefore, as long as it was something she could make use of here, she would not deliberately hide her abilities.


    Excellence itself was not a bad thing. The more excellent one was, the farther one could see, the more one could engage with, and the clearer one would be about what one wanted.


    "When you''ve made them, give me a set to try too. Although these brands are international luxury brands, they aren''t all-natural either. I don''t know how the women of ancient China maintained their beauty in the past?"


    Huo Mei Shu sighed as she unpacked. Rong Dai helped her and smiled silently.


    Every era had its own unique methods. It was indeed a pity that some things were lost.

 Chapter 157: Active Provocation

    <h4>Chapter 157</h4>


    Rong Dai looked at the table full of cosmetics and listened to her sister-inw''s chattering. The smile on her face remained undiminished.


    It was just as expected - no matter the era, women would always pay extra attention to their appearance.


    "Mei Shu, it should be about time for us to attend the dinner party, right?"


    Rong Dai nced at her watch to check the time and reminded Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu also took a look at the time and quickly nodded, "Yes, it''s time to go, but sister-inw you need to change into another outfit."


    Rong Dai looked at her clothes in confusion, "What''s wrong with this outfit?"


    Huo Mei Shu folded her arms and shook her finger, "No no no, sister-inw, you''re the female lead, how can you dress so casually?"


    "Although this is just an internal cast dinner party, you need to know that people judge others by their clothes in this world."


    "I see, one should respect the clothes before respecting the person," Rong Dai nodded, feeling a little helpless that this was the same no matter which era it was.


    Huo Mei Shu had great taste. She selected a ck evening gown that went past Rong Dai''s knees for her and did her hair up.


    "There''s no time for makeup, but sister-inw your skin is good, so it''s fine without makeup for an asion like this."


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly. The two sisters-inw then went downstairs after getting ready.


    "Get in."


    "You bought a car?"


    Rong Dai got into the passenger seat, buckled her seatbelt, and asked Huo Mei Shu.


    "I''m not rich, this was arranged by my elder brother. I''m just showing you the way," Huo Mei Shu exined helplessly. She had truly witnessed how extremely doting her elder brother was on his wife!


    The two sisters-inw then arrived at the hotel where the dinner party was held. They could see many reporters surrounding the perimeter, blocked by security guards.


    After all, "The Supreme Empress" was a hugely anticipated production in the industry when it was announced.


    "Isn''t that Rong Dai? She''s the female lead!"


    A sharp-eyed reporter immediately spotted the two sisters-inw and started snapping away wildly with cameras and recorders.


    Rong Dai was already used to the filming equipment from following Jiang Ling on set before, so she had ovee her initial fear and difort towards them.


    The sisters-inw quickly entered the dinner party venue, which was very nicely decorated and spacious.


    Because of what happened with Qiao Wanzhou, she had read up some information online. Combined with the intel Huo Shaojie gave her, she recognized some of the cast members who would be participating.


    "Sister-inw, drink juice," Huo Mei Shu quickly brought her a ss of juice and was drinking juice herself.


    Rong Dai stared straight at the champagne, "Can''t I drink that?"


    Huo Mei Shu hurriedly shook her head, "Sister-inw, this dinner party is basically socializing and everyone getting to know each other."


    "You''re in the spotlight right now. The news about you has been making waves in Shengjing these days."


    "I read up on the actress who waspeting with you for this role. She''s someone you don''t want to provoke."


    "Although we''re not afraid of her, getting disturbed by this flea would be very annoying. If you show that you drink alcohol, it''d just cause more troubleter."


    "With elder brother here, and the Huo Family here, as long as you don''t drink alcohol, they wouldn''t dare force you to drink."


    Huo Mei Shu quickly exined.


    Rong Dai nodded and took a sip of the juice. She really didn''t like being forced to drink either.


    "Let''s go sit over there," Huo Mei Shu picked a quieter spot and Rong Dai followed her over to sit down.


    Worried that Rong Dai wasn''t familiar with the "trade", Huo Mei Shu introduced everything to her one by one.


    Although Rong Dai had read up on this already, she still listened attentively.


    "Well well, if it isn''t our female lead? Why are you hiding in this corner? Feeling a little undeserving of this role?"


    Just as the sisters-inw were talking, a slightly shrill female voice rang out above them.


    "She''s Yang Wanwan. She waste for the audition before and was acting snooty, which gave you the opportunity, sister-inw. She''s not a good person," Huo Mei Shu quickly exined to Rong Dai when she saw who it was.


    Rong Dai nodded. Even without her sister-inw''s exnation, she could tell.


    She put down the juice in her hand and stood up, looking down at Yang Wanwan before her.


    Having lived through theter decades of her past life, the aura of an empress was ingrained in her bones.


    Her expression was calm, but faintly carried a dignified and authoritative air.


    Yang Wanwan''s face stiffened slightly as she stared intently at Rong Dai.


    "Miss Yang, haven''t you heard that one should know oneself? I''m well aware that I''m just a neer and it''s not my ce to interfere with my seniors. I was just minding my own business in this cool corner, is that an eyesore to you too, Miss Yang?"


    The other party clearly had ill intentions, so what was there for her to fear?


    If this was anyone else, she may not have retorted so sharply, but this Yang Wanwan... bore some resemnce to Imperial Concubine Guigui from her past life.


    She loathed Imperial Concubine Guigui''s face the most. In her past life, she didn''t get too involved in the imperial harem, but kept falling into traps and incurred the emperor''s displeasure. Imperial Concubine Guigui yed no small part in that.


    Yang Wanwan didn''t expect Rong Dai to directly p back at her so sharply. She was at a temporary loss for words.


    Rong Dai gave a lightugh and picked up the ss of juice on the table. "I have you to thank for the opportunity to take on this role, Miss Yang, since you werete. I''ll drink this juice in your honor in lieu of alcohol."


    She took the lead in making the toast, then put the ss back down.


    Her actions were calm andposed. She didn''t shrink back at all despite being a neer.


    Huo Mei Shu also didn''t expect her sister-inw to be so fierce and directly stand up to Yang Wanwan head-on. She didn''t even need to step in!


    "Sister-inw, awesome!"


    She gave Rong Dai a big thumbs up right in front of Yang Wanwan, making Yang Wanwan turn green with anger!


    She had just overslept a bit and arrived an hourte. Yet this woman of unknown origin had taken advantage of that opening!


    This role could have led her to acim and glory, but now this Rong Dai had messed it all up. There was no chance left for her now.


    Many people at the dinner party had looked over. Seeing Yang Wanwan being put in her ce, not a fewughed quietly.


    If this was some other rookie performer, she wouldn''t have been so courteous!


    But the other party was Rong Dai, the wife of the CEO of Huo''s Enterprise. She had to be apprehensive.


    "Miss Yang, do you have any other instructions? I''d like to go over there and get acquainted with the other crew members," Rong Dai spoke up.


    Although she was gradually getting used to life here, the fate of the Rong Household in her past life was still her nightmare.


    Seeing this face that resembled Imperial Concubine Guigui, she would think of the Rong Household''s tragic end.


    While Yang Wanwan''s words were provocative, Rong Dai had already retorted back. There was no need to keep quibbling.


    "You..."


    Yang Wanwan''s face turned bright green with anger, but could only watch as Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu left.


    If this was some other rookie performer, she would have shown no courtesy!


    But the other party was Rong Dai, the wife of the CEO of Huo''s Enterprise. She had to be wary.

 Chapter 158: Spilled on Purpose

    <h4>Chapter 158</h4>


    This scene was seen by many people, and their scrutiny of Rong Dai gained anotheryer.


    Although there were many who disliked Yang Wanwan here, Rong Dai was just a neer.


    And she was relying only on the Huo family, this wealthy household. In their eyes, Rong Dai was just boastful.


    But Rong Dai didn''t care about these looks at all. She calmly andposedly went to sit in a corner with Huo Mei Shu.


    Seeing Rong Dai disregard her like this, Yang Wanwan clenched her fists tightly in anger.


    "You''ve offended people before we''ve even started filming?"


    Qiao Wanzhou came in through another side door, happening to be right behind the sisters-inw.


    Rong Dai slightly turned her head to nce at her, a faint smile on her exquisite face as she exined, "I came here to act, not to be mistreated or make friends. This is my job."


    "If she questions me, I canpletely crush her with my performanceter. I won''t tolerate such overt provocation."


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled and sat down too.


    She looked at Rong Dai appreciatively, "She has temper, suits my taste."


    Rong Dai smiled shallowly without replying. If she didn''t understand some of the fresh terminology of this era, she would have found the other party''s words distasteful.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s arrival livened up the banquet, diverting quite a bit of the attention from Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai was not angry either, she was rather happy to have some peace and quiet now.


    When the banquet started, Rong Dai waspletely absorbed in the delicious food. Apart from asionally chatting with her young sister-inw, she didn''t pay attention to anything else.


    "What''s wrong with you?"


    Seeing her young sister-inw''s dejected appearance, Rong Dai was puzzled.


    "He didn''te," Huo Mei Shu said dispiritedly. Her whole being was like she had been drained of energy and spirit.


    Rong Dai picked out a piece of sweet and sour pork ribs for her, "Then just eat."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her elder sister-inw a little helplessly, "I have no appetite."


    "You still have a lot of work to do. Once filming starts, there will definitely be many things I can''t handle myself, so I''ll need you to worry about them."


    "Also, didn''t you say that Mr. Gu is just the music director? On-site filming doesn''t need music yet, so he cane at least mid tote production, right?"


    Seeing her like this, Rong Dai also didn''t feel good continuing to eat. She put down her chopsticks andforted her.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her very dejectedly, "I just wanted to see him a few more times. If after this effort, he still has no feelings for me, then I can give up and go abroad early."


    Rong Dai was helpless.


    Love really tortured people, making them live and die for each other, not just devoted to each other. Her young sister-inw''s state, she might really need to be distracted to take care of her.


    "Mrs. Huo."


    The sisters-inw were talking when Yang Wanwan, who had been scolded by Rong Dai earlier, walked over to Rong Dai with a wine ss in hand. Her smile was very bright.


    Rong Dai''s brows furrowed slightly. What was this woman up to?


    "Mrs. Huo, I apologize for my earlier words. Please be the bigger person and don''t hold it against me. Let me toast you."


    Yang Wanwan had a gentle and charming smile. Her face was exquisite.


    For a beauty, people''s tolerance was always strong.


    Since the other party had already apologized to this extent, she certainly wouldn''t say anything malicious to hurt her.


    She turned her head to pick up her fruit juice.


    "Ah!"


    Beside her, Yang Wanwan suddenly cried out. Rong Dai only felt her forehead to neck turn icy cold, the aroma of red wine lingering around her nose.


    Her hair and cor were soaked.


    Her skin was originally snow-white and delicate. As the beads of red wine trickled down her slender neck, it was very alluring.


    "Yang Wanwan! What are you doing?!"


    Before Rong Dai could get angry, Huo Mei Shu beside her, already in a bad mood, immediately red up when she saw this!


    "I''m sorry, I''m sorry Mrs. Huo! I really wanted to apologize to you. I, I... Someone bumped into me just now. I really didn''t do it on purpose. Let me wipe you."


    She grabbed the hot towel on Rong Dai''s table, wanting to wipe her cor.


    "No need, Miss Yang."


    Rong Dai firmly grabbed her wrist, her slender white fingers clutching tightly. Although she had a smile on her face, her eyes were icy cold, staring at Yang Wanwan inch by inch, like knives. She slowly got up from her chair.


    Yang Wanwan was shorter than her. Rong Dai''s gaze frightened her pale. Especially her wrist, it kept going numb, and she couldn''t even hold the towel steadily.


    "Yang Wanwan!"


    Huo ShaoJie and Lu Ye were also frightened out of their wits when they saw this situation!


    If Huo Shao Ting found out about this, they''d really have to go film a documentary in Africa!


    "Di-director... I, I really didn''t do it on purpose. Someone bumped into me. I only wanted to apologize to Mrs. Huo."


    Yang Wanwan shook all over in fright. After all, she was an actress. She squeezed out two lines of clear tears.


    Huo ShaoJie and Lu Ye were furious, feeling stifled in the chest. This Yang Wanwan was brought on by another associate director. By the time they and Huo ShaoJie found out, it was toote.


    They couldn''tpensate before filming started, right?


    "I''m fine."


    Rong Dai still had a shallow smile on her exquisite face. Although she was smiling, her gaze was dignified and icy cold.


    "I appreciate Miss Yang''s apology. Next time Miss Yang makes a toast, please be careful. Not everyone is as easygoing as me."


    Rong Dai smiled faintly as she took the hot towel from her and gracefully dabbed the wine stains on her face, neck and chest.


    "Sister-inw..."


    "Mei Shu, let''s go back first."


    Rong Dai stopped Huo Mei Shu and nced meaningfully at Yang Wanwan as she put the towel down.


    The other party''s tricks were really too clumsy.


    If she had really lost her temper, she would have fallen into her trap.


    Huo Mei Shu''s face was icy. She red fiercely at Yang Wanwan.


    This bitch!


    "Sister-inw, wear this first. I''ll arrange a car to take you and Mei Shu back."


    Seeing Rong Dai covering her chest, Huo ShaoJie hurriedly took off his suit jacket to drape over her.


    "Thank you. I''ll have the driver return your jacketter."


    Rong Dai nodded lightly and left the banquet hall with all eyes on her and Huo Mei Shu, remaining elegant andposed throughout.


    Watching the sisters-inw leave, Yang Wanwan''s eyes revealed a smug smile.


    She had deliberately sshed Rong Dai!


    In all her years in the entertainment industry, no one had ever dared to treat her like this.


    This Rong Dai had just married Huo Shao Ting out of dumb luck. What was there for her to be arrogant about?


    She wanted to humiliate her!


    "Director... I really didn''t do it on purpose. I...I''ll go apologize to Mrs. Huo right away. I can even kneel."


    Yang Wanwan''s face revealed an aggrieved and fearful expression. Her acting was superb.


    Huo ShaoJie and Lu Ye''s faces were ugly. This matter couldn''t be concealed.


    "You take care of yourself. One day you''ll know you''ve provoked someone you shouldn''t have."


    Lu Ye said coldly and left with an extremely unfriendly nce at the associate director.


    "Huo Director, I..."


    Huo ShaoJie ignored her and followed behind Lu Ye.

 Chapter 159: Gossip Again

    <h4>Chapter 159</h4>


    "Sister-inw, that bitch was deliberately causing trouble. How could you not get mad?" Little Sister-inw said impatiently before Rong Dai interrupted her.


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t say anything but nodded in agreement.


    Rong Dai chuckled, "The Huo Family is very powerful indeed. Perhaps if I had brought up the Huo Family just now, that would make her pack up and leave the crew immediately."


    "That''s for sure!" Huo Mei Shu nodded vigorously.


    Rong Dai smiled and shook her head, "Everyone understands that a mighty dam could be breached by an ant hole, but not everyone can restrain themselves."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her puzzled, not quite understanding what she meant.


    "She resents me for taking her leading role. Of course she''s upset about it," Rong Dai exined.


    "I''m not a pushover that she can keep bullying," Huo Mei Shu said.


    Rong Dai looked at the young girl earnestly and spoke solemnly, "This drama is the hard work and dream of Shao Jie and Lu Ye. The industry has high expectations for this masterpiece."


    "On top of that, Shao Jie''s status in the industry is also highly regarded."


    "The Huo Family stands so tall. There are not few people who want to see the Huo Family fall. For ordinary people, this trivial matter could just be a small incident that can be settled then and there. But I cannot do that because I''m Shao Lie''s wife and the daughter-inw of the Huo Family. My every word and action will be magnified and scrutinized under the spotlight."


    Rong Dai patiently exined to her. She had gone through so many schemes and plots in her past life in the pce. Yang Wanwan''s amateur trick was nothing to her.


    But now she was not alone anymore. She needed to consider the Huo Family.


    When she first joined the family, she was already gued with scandals, which had caused no small impact on the Huo Family.


    If she continued to act on impulse, it would not only make people detest her but also the Huo''s Enterprise.


    She could not drag the reputation of Huo''s Enterprise down just to satisfy her momentary anger, making them notorious.


    "This will not only affect me but also the Huo''s Enterprise."


    "The Huo Family was able to attain its status today thanks to Granny and Shao Jie''s efforts. I''m merely reaping what they sowed."


    "Since I''m enjoying the benefits, I should also keep the family''s interest in mind. My reputation is not important - my conscience is clear. I don''t need others to affirm my virtues. But the Huo Family cannot afford to tarnish its reputation."


    "The Huo Family had just dealt with the Wen Corporation. Although the Wen Corporation''s downfall was due to their own problems, outsiders will not examine the details. They will simply me it on the Huo Family, on Shao Jie''s ruthlessness."


    Rong Dai patiently exined to her. On one hand, she hoped Little Sister-inw could maintain such innocence. On the other hand, she also hoped Little Sister-inw could be more mature, so she would suffer less in the future.


    Although Little Sister-inw did not understand the sinister plots in the business world, it was definitely not lessplicated than the scheming concubines in the inner pce back in her past life, and certainly not simpler than the rivalry between powerful families.


    "It''s true that the Huo Family is at its zenith right now. I''m not cursing the Huo Family to decline, but it''s a very realistic issue."


    "Anypany, if it does not maintain its reputation, relies on bullying others, it cannotst long. This is the same principle as the prosperity and decline of a family n."


    "As the saying goes, the raging sun will eventually set. If every time I get into trouble, I use my status as Mrs. Huo to overwhelm others..."


    "The other party may give in for the moment, but they will be upset inside, which could negatively impact other people''s judgment of me."


    "Patience in a moment of anger will not cost me anything. But their malicious joy will only harm themselves," Rong Dai said after hearing her words.


    Granny, Mother, Eldest Brother and Second Brother would not say such things to her. She had been protected by them all these years, doing whatever she wanted andshing out at people she disliked.


    As a result, she had few true friends, even her best friend could betray her.


    "Thank you Sister-inw, I understand now," Huo Mei Shu said.


    Rong Dai did not expect the young girl to fullyprehend these principles at once. But judging from her expression, it seemed that she got the gist of it.


    The car stopped steadily at the hotel entrance. Rong Dai looked at the size on her suit jacket, took out some cash from her bag and handed it to the driver.


    "Sir, please help buy a suit jacket for Director Huo and deliver it to him. Keep the change as your service fee."


    Rong Dai felt a bit reluctant parting with this 5,000 yuan, but Shao Jie''s suit jacket was definitely worth more than 5,000.


    That''s all the cash she had in her bag. She had no other choice.


    The driver nodded and drove away with the car.


    "Mei Shu, let''s go up," Rong Dai turned around and saw Little Sister-inw staring at her phone, anger that had just subsided was crawling up her face again.


    "Sister-inw, this bitch is so hateful! She''s so good at promoting herself!"


    Huo Mei Shu was so furious she could explode! Her fingers gripping the phone even turned white.


    Rong Dai looked at the viral short video on Weibo that was flooded with criticisms and curses.


    The video was cleverly edited to avoid showing the part where Yang Wanwan deliberately spilled wine on her. It only showed Rong Dai grabbing Yang Wanwan''s wrist with Yang Wanwan looking panicked and flustered.


    It made Rong Dai look like she was bullying Yang Wanwan.


    Although it was an amateur trick, Yang Wanwan made use of her huge fanbase. In less than an hour, the Inte was already on fire!


    "Rong Dai is a slut! Not only did she steal Wanwan''s leading role, she even dared to bully others like this!"


    "Right! This bitch is so hateful!"


    "I really don''t understand how the CEO of Huo''s Enterprise can be so blind? What does a slut like Rong Dai have that makes her qualified to be a daughter-inw of a prestigious family?"


    "One sentence - terrible character."


    Rong Dai just smiled at those viciousments fromizens. She turned off Weibo and put away her phone.


    "Let''s go up first. Tomorrow is the opening ceremony. We can deal with this afterwards."


    Huo Mei Shu stomped upstairs, eyes staring at her phone screen were almost shooting out mes!


    "Sister-inw..." Huo Mei Shu stood at the door, looking apologetic and hesitant.


    "Don''t worry, this will be taken care of. Don''t be upset over such petty people. If you keep getting angry at them, you''ll only hurt yourself. That''s exactly what they want, isn''t it?" Rong Dai said, seeing the young girl''s indignant look. She wasn''t even angry yet, but Little Sister-inw was more outraged than her.


    Unable to persuade her, Huo Mei Shu had no choice but to nod, "Then Sister-inw, rest early."


    Rong Dai nodded and watched her go into the room before entering her own.


    As soon as she stepped in, she noticed the lights were on. She became alert right away and grabbed a hanger from the closet just in case.

 Chapter 160: I Miss You

    <h4>Chapter 160</h4>


    "Shao Ting?"


    When she saw Huo Shao Ting''s back facing her as he made a phone call by the window, she hesitated and called out to him softly.


    "That''s it."


    Huo Shao Ting hung up the phone and turned around to look at her. Seeing the hanger in her hand, his deep eyes revealed a teasing smile, "You''re going to use that to fight bad guys?"


    Rong Dai was instantly embarrassed. She red at him before putting the hanger back and took Huo Shao Jie''s suit off the rack.


    "Whose suit is that?" Huo Shao Ting''s eyes narrowed immediately.


    "Shao Jie''s."


    "Why are you wearing his suit?" Huo Shao Ting continued asking.


    Rong Dai was a little exasperated. She hadn''t even asked him why he was here yet!


    "What are you doing here?"


    "Answer my question first."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Not waiting for her to speak, Huo Shao Ting strode over to her side. Of course he could smell the wine scent on her body.


    "Have you been drinking?"


    Rong Dai shook her head, "I didn''t drink, someone just spilled wine on me."


    "Who was it?" Huo Shao Ting''s eyes instantly turned ominous.


    "It was just an ident. That''s why Shao Jie lent me his jacket to wear back. Let me go clean up first, wait for me."


    Although Rong Dai liked drinking, the smell of wine made her very ufortable. She briefly exined a few sentences before going into the bathroom.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned. After she entered the bathroom, he immediately called Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu was at a loss in her room. She had originally wanted to resolve this matter for her sister-inw.


    But she realized that without her big brother and second brother''s help, she seemed unable to aplish this.


    Just as she was feeling dejected, she received Huo Shao Ting''s call.


    "What happened to your sister-inw at the banquet tonight?" His voice was extremely cold.


    Huo Mei Shu shuddered and quickly gave him a detailed report.


    Huo Shao Ting''s face instantly darkened.


    After washing up in the bathroom, Rong Dai changed into clean clothes and came out to see him just hanging up the phone. She looked at him helplessly,


    "It''s just a small matter, I can handle it."


    She didn''t want Huo Shao Ting to intervene every time something happened, that would make her seem disabled.


    Although being such a disabled person wasfortable, she would lose her own brilliance.


    "Really, believe me."


    Seeing that he was still frowning, Rong Dai took the initiative to wrap her arms around his waist, looking up at him with bright eyes,pletely like a little woman.


    Huo Shao Ting couldn''t resist her charm. His expression eased as he said very helplessly, "Just this once. If you can''t handle simr situations in the future, I''ll take care of them."


    Rong Dai was exasperated but her heart felt warm.


    The feeling of being cared for and worried about really felt so good.


    "You still haven''t answered me, what are you doing here?"


    Seeing that his expression had eased, Rong Dai was practically hanging on him as she spoke, her tone mixed with some coquetry.


    In front of Huo Shao Ting, she was gradually shedding the pitiful sensibility from her past life, and revealing more of her feminine side.


    With Huo Shao Ting, she realized that sometimes women don''t need to be too sensible.


    In her past life, she was too sensible, too dignified, which ultimately led to the estrangement between her and the Emperor.


    Although Noble Consort Hui definitely yed a part, she was also at fault fundamentally.


    There is a saying that goes, "A crying child gets candy, a coquettish woman lives best."


    Although this saying is not absolute, sometimes women can let go of some of that sensibility and pride, and perhaps get an even warmer response.


    "I missed you."


    Huo Shao Ting made no attempt to conceal his feelings. He tilted her chin up with his hand and lowered his head to kiss her.


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly turned red. She looked at him with shimmering eyes, the warmth filling her heart was indescribable.


    This man gave her warmth and security.


    Although they had only been apart for a few hours, she had been missing him constantly in her heart.


    She just didn''t expect him toe chasing after her so quickly.


    "I missed you too, Shao Ting."


    Her slightly coy voice was very soft and tender, making Huo Shao Ting''s heart tremble. His eyes grew fiery hot. He swept her into his arms and carried her with big strides toward the bed.


    "The curtains...the curtains aren''t drawn."


    Rong Dai''s breathing grew urgent, her face flushed as she reminded him.


    Huo Shao Ting took a deep breath. He practically leapt from the bed to stride over and yank the curtains closed.


    Absence makes the heart grow fonder, they had only been apart for a few hours, yet Huo Shao Ting��s passion and her ardent response made the slightly sultry night even more sweltering.


    After their passion, Rong Daiy sprawled on the bed, looking at him resentfully.


    Seeing her slightly parted red lips, the blush still lingering on her cheeks, Huo Shao Ting felt a surge of tenderness. He leaned over her from behind to kiss her.


    Rong Dai red at him indignantly, but to Huo Shao Ting, she looked charming and extremely alluring like this.


    Annoyed, she could only turn over and wrap herself tightly in the nket.


    The smile never leaving Huo Shao Ting''s lips, he took a tissue to gently wipe the beads of perspiration from her forehead.


    "Wife, I love you."


    His actions were gentle, and he didn''t forget to whisper sweet nothings.


    Rong Dai felt both sweet and annoyed inside, she just gripped the nket tightly without answering him.


    Ding dong ding dong!


    Suddenly the doorbell rang loudly, making Rong Dai jump in shock.


    "I''ll get it."


    Seeing that she wanted to get up, Huo Shao Ting pressed her shoulders down. He got up naked and went to the closet to grab a robe to put on before going barefoot to open the door.


    "Sister-inw, I know how to deal with that wretched Yang Wanwan! I...Big brother?"


    As soon as the door opened, Huo Mei Shu excitedly said while looking at her phone. Sensing something wrong, she nced up and saw her big brother. She was stunned for a moment.


    Huo Shao Ting ignored her and took her phone to look at it, instructing lightly, "Send me the video."


    "Oh...okay."


    "Bang!"


    Huo Mei Shu had just finished answering when the huge sound of the door mming shut rang out. The gust of wind blowing through the crack hit her face, stinging a little.


    Looking at the closed door, Huo Mei Shu was not upset at all. Her mind went back to remembering her big brother''s appearance just now.


    He seemed to be making love to her sister-inw?


    So did she...interrupt their lovemaking?


    No wonder he got angry.


    Huo Mei Shu sniffed innocently and walked back, quickly sending the video over. Her heart instantly felt at ease.


    "Was that Mei Shu?"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting return, Rong Dai asked.


    "Mm."


    "Then she must have something important. She felt very guilty about what happened tonight, but it wasn''t her fault at all. Give me your phone and let mefort her, don''t let her overthink."


    Rong Dai said helplessly. She was rather fond of this little sister-inw.


    "No need. She came to show you this."


    Huo Shao Ting held up his phone and yed the video Huo Mei Shu had sent, for her to see.


    Watching the video, Rong Dai saw Yang Wanwan deliberately pouring wine on her, clear as day.


    "Who filmed this? It''s so clear."


    If this video got out, thoseizens would be pped in the face again. They were probably going to be very upset.

 Chapter 161: It鈥檚 Not in My Nature

    <h4>Chapter 161</h4>


    "Have you decided how you want to handle this?"


    Huo Shao Ting poured her a cup of warm water and leaned against the bed, putting an arm under her head as a pillow, and gently asked her.


    Rong Dai naturally drank the warm water he handed over, her gaze fixed seriously on the video.


    The video was very clear. Judging from the angle, it should have been filmed by someone attending the banquet.


    She thought back to the seating arrangement at the banquet, and Qiao Wanzhou''s figure appeared in her mind.


    She shook her head, "Let theizens scold enough for now. Refuting it too quickly will likely lead to usations of scheming."


    She had always lived by the principle of not bothering others if they didn''t bother her.


    If it hadn''t been for Yang Wanwaning to find trouble, she wouldn''t have made things difficult for the other party either.


    But since Yang Wanwan liked to y this way, she would just have to apany her to the end.


    What''s more, Yang Wanwan had a huge number of fans, most of whom were loyal to her looks,monly known as "sycophants".


    These blindly doting fans could be extremely terrifying when riled up.


    She was well aware of the damage words could do.


    Everything from her past life was too deeply etched into her heart.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her approvingly and stole another kiss on her forehead, "My wife is so clever."


    Rong Dai was instantly annoyed and rolled her eyes at him. She felt like he was actually praising his own good judgement.


    She continued browsing through the messages on Weibo. In just three short hours, she had already been cursed to high heaven on the hot search topics by Yang Wanwan''s fans.


    Under every post she made, there were countless unsightly profanities that she couldn''t even count.


    Seeing these dirty words, Rong Dai''s heart remained calm.


    Fortunately, she had the memories and experiences from her past life, which had already honed an extremely resilient spirit and heart.


    Otherwise, any other new actress in her shoes seeing these messages would surely be angered to despair.


    She was clearly the injured party, yet she was the one under attack.


    Human nature was indeed fickle and sinister.


    "You''re not bothered by this?"


    Although Huo Shao Ting was not involved in the entertainment industry, he had made an effort to understand some things for his wife''s sake.


    Even though he wasn''t a big shot in this circle, the Huo Corporation had entertainmentpanies under its umbre. Getting to know the rules here wasn''t too difficult for him.


    Rong Dai looked up at him and smiled, "You''re hoping that I''ll get angry?"


    If she didn''t have the memories from her past life, she would definitely have been furious.


    But the present her did not care, and wouldn''t even pay it any mind.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t be able to think calmly about countermeasures like this.


    Right now she was being cursed to the high heavens by Yang Wanwan''s fans. If she jumped out to refute them at this time, even with evidence in hand, the willfully blind sycophants were countless.


    If she tried to defend herself now, she would absolutely be cursed out of this.


    She was very clear that it wasn''t how much these fans adored Yang Wanwan, but how she had personally experienced the sinister side of human nature.


    No one was willing to willingly admit their mistakes. One should never underestimate the darkness in the human heart.


    "This way I have a chance to curry favor with you, to let you get to know me better."


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her, his sweet words were endless.


    Rong Dai''s heart skipped a beat, her ears slightly red. She red coquettishly at him, "Contrived pandering is not in my nature."


    She could be strong as steel, she could also be as gentle as water.


    But she would never go against her own will to fawn over others, catering to their preferences.


    She knew all too clearly where that had led her in her past life.


    So she would not repeat the same mistakes in this life.


    "Shao Ting, I''ve made far too many mistakes."


    She tilted her head slightly to look up at him, "I''ve lost too much. I was too precocious, too adept at pleasing others. I lost myself, and harmed those around me."


    "A woman can also be rational. I can achieve things myself, I can also be a woman who can act coy and docile in your arms, but I will not go against my true nature to cater to you."


    "I don''t like tiptoeing around things. We cany anything open and discuss it. Things you''re unwilling to share, I absolutely won''t pry and dig into."


    She looked at him very seriously. Aside from the issue of her past life identity, she was willing tomunicate and resolve anything between her and Huo Shao Ting.


    "I hope we can be both husband and wife, and the closest of confidantes."


    "Shao Ting, I''m different from other women. The pain and despair I''ve experienced is beyond what anyone can understand, so I cherish our affinity very much."


    "I hope that between us, there won''t be too many impractical, fanciful illusions. That''s not what I need."


    She took his wrist and ced it on her chest, her strong heartbeat was clear even to herself.


    Such actions and conduct would have been unthinkable and impossible in her past life.


    "You can feel my feelings for you, here."


    She spoke very seriously, her gaze towards him firm and persistent.


    "I can do anything for your sake, but I will absolutely not go against my true nature to cater to you. That would not be love, but a disgusting currying of favor."


    Huo Shao Ting had not expected his casual remark to elicit such a long response from her. His arm reflexively tightened around her in an embrace.


    His slightly cool lips kissed her forehead, his own voice serious as he replied, "I understand."


    With her expressing it so adamantly, how could he not understand?


    At the same time, his heart ached over her past, yet also rejoiced that she was willing to say these things to him.


    This allowed him to understand even more clearly what she needed.


    Rong Dai leaned against his strong chest, listening to his powerful heartbeat, feeling extremely reassured.


    "Right, can you get Qiao Wanzhou''s contact information?"


    After the husband and wife hadmunicated, she also did not forget the main issue.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her helplessly. His little wife really made him love her and feel helpless at the same time.


    She could be emotional or rational, sometimes even more level-headed than a man.


    "I can."


    As he spoke, he called his assistant Zhang and within two minutes, Zhang had sent over Qiao Wanzhou''s contact details.


    Her Weibo, WeChat, and personal number were all veryprehensive.


    Rong Dai clicked her tongue in wonder and added her on WeChat.


    "Why are you adding her?" Huo Shao Ting asked.


    As Rong Dai waited for a reply from the other party, she also opened up that video again to exin.


    "I was at the banquet then. I remember many people''s positions there. Judging from this angle, the person filming should be Miss Qiao at the time."


    "Since I can tell,izens will definitely also be able to deduce it. With so many people present, it''s likely someone could expose it."


    After all, Qiao Wanzhou was a top A-list actress, not just a celebrity. Her professional skills were outstanding.


    At a young age, relying solely on her superb acting, she had swept all the highly regarded domestic awards, and also won many international awards, even gaining a foothold in international cinema.


    These were things that other domestic actresses of the same generation could not achieve, but Qiao Wanzhou had done it.


    She had clearly sent this video to help Rong Dai, out of good intentions.


    But if she simply released it as is, people would definitely analyze the banquetyout and deduce it was Qiao Wanzhou who filmed it.


    So Rong Dai would not release this video yet. Firstly to let theizens enjoy scolding her for a bit more, and secondly to consider Qiao Wanzhou''s position.


    She could not implicate others over her own matters.

 Chapter 162: Yung Dai is Having an Affair

    <h4>Chapter 162</h4>


    "I don''t want to cause trouble for others. It''s easy to repay money debts, but human debts are the hardest to repay," Rong Dai exined.


    Huo Shao Ting saw that she was well-organized and sensible, but felt helpless and distressed in his heart.


    He felt helpless that his wife was so capable.


    He felt distressed, wondering what she had experienced in the past to be so tenacious, calm and wise?


    "Do as you think is right, I''m here for you, don''t be afraid," he held her the whole time, looking at her with gentle and firm eyes, giving her the most solid backing and greatest support.


    Rong Dai nodded. When she saw Qiao Wanzhou add her as a friend, she typed a greeting.


    Qiao Wanzhou: Aren''t you going to post a video to exin?


    The corners of Rong Dai''s mouth curved up into a smile. She had now learned to type and her speed matched modern people.


    She quickly replied: No rush, let them enjoy it first. Otherwise they won''t sleep well tonight.


    Qiao Wanzhou: (naughty smile) You''re quite a little minx, but I like it!


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry at the other party''s words. Although she hadn''t interacted with Qiao Wanzhou for long, she was very astute at reading people.


    This Qiao Wanzhou was ruthless enough, especially towards herself. Otherwise she wouldn''t have achieved her current aplishments and status.


    Rong Dai really liked ruthless women like this.


    Perhaps it was because she had lost something in the past, so when she saw someone else possess something, she would like them especially.


    "Like?" Huo Shao Ting frowned.


    His wife was beautiful and excellent, he could understand men liking her, but he could nip those weeds in the bud.


    But what was with this woman liking his wife?


    "Miss Qiao just appreciates me, don''t overthink," Rong Dai quickly exined with a wry smile when she heard the danger in his words.


    Men could be so foolish when they were being stupid!


    Hearing her exnation, Huo Shao Ting''s sharp gaze softened.


    Rong Dai continued chatting with Qiao Wanzhou. Although she didn''t hide it from Huo Shao Ting, Huo Shao Ting had already confirmed that the other party posed no threat to him, so he got up and went into the bathroom to run a bath.


    "This Rong Dai is quite interesting."


    Qiao Wanzhou leaned against the bed in her hotel room, looking at the messages Rong Dai had sent with obvious admiration in her beautiful eyes.


    Seeing the other party''s response, Rong Dai felt both relieved and a little uneasy.


    After all, human debts really were hard to repay.


    "Thank you," she replied to Qiao Wanzhou.


    Qiao Wanzhou didn''t care about the video being made public, which Rong Dai was very grateful for.


    "So, I''ll post this video first thing tomorrow morning. It''ll be more effectiveing from me," Qiao Wanzhou stared at the screen for several seconds before sending her a message.


    Looking at this message, Rong Dai felt a little surprised.


    Although Qiao Wanzhou appreciated her, she could tell that the other party definitely wasn''t the meddling type.


    Rong Dai thought about it and still wanted to refuse, although she was very aware of Qiao Wanzhou''s influence.


    "I just happen to dislike her too, so take it as giving me a chance! No need to owe me anything," Qiao Wanzhou sent another string of messages without waiting for her reply.


    Seeing her say this, after weighing it up, Rong Dai could only reply: Then thank you very much.


    Qiao Wanzhou: (smiley face) Just a small thing!


    A shallow smile appeared on Rong Dai''s charming face. She bid Qiao Wanzhou goodnight then sent a message to little sister-inw.


    Although Rong Dai liked little sister-inw, little sister-inw had an unsteady temperament, so she was a little worried that little sister-inw would mess things up. She subtly reminded her in one sentence.


    In her own room, Huo Mei Shu felt anxious and worried. On one hand, she was concerned about how this would affect Rong Dai and didn''t dare rashly post the news herself, so could only anxiously wait.


    On the other hand, she was worried big brother mighte looking to get even with her tomorrow!


    After all, she had disturbed big brother and sister-inw''s happy time!


    Seeing the message from Rong Dai, she immediately perked up and hurriedly asked for details.


    Seeing little sister-inw''s words, Rong Dai''s ears reddened as she red resentfully towards the bathroom, then rapidly sent a reply.


    Seeing her reply, Huo Mei Shu let out a breath, only then humming a song as she went to shower.


    Meanwhile, Yang Wanwan had just returned from the dinner banquet, still smug about her "masterpiece",pletely oblivious to the great disaster about to befall her.


    At that moment, there was a knock at her door. She opened it to find the female paparazzo she had hired. Yang Wanwan immediately dragged her inside!


    "Didn''t I tell you not toe looking for me casually? Do you think my words just went in one ear and out the other?" Yang Wanwan looked at the female paparazzo angrily.


    The female paparazzo felt a little wronged, still wearing her camera around her neck. She spoke weakly, "I...I just wanted to report the situation to you."


    Yang Wanwan took a deep breath to calm herself down.


    "Speak, what''s the matter? Say it quick then get out quick, I still need my beauty sleep."


    When she thought of Rong Dai''s face, she became furiously jealous. She had never seen another woman with such good skin.


    Sure enough, a slut is a slut. She had climbed into a rich family''s bed, her face must be the result of expensive skincare products!


    The female paparazzo quickly showed her the video on her camera. Because she was afraid of being discovered, she had chosen to film from quite a distance, so the footage wasn''t very clear.


    "This is Rong Dai''s room. When she returned to the hotel, there was a man already in her room. Based on her flight schedule, Mr. Huo didn''t send her here."


    Yang Wanwan''s eyes lit up immediately, "You mean that slut is secretly keeping a man outside behind Huo Shao Ting''s back?!"


    This really was heaven helping her!


    Not only had this Rong Dai snatched her leading actress role, she was still so arrogant!


    Now she was getting her just desserts!


    Yang Wanwan felt like cheering to the heavens!


    The female paparazzo nodded, "It should be like that."


    Yang Wanwan was in a great mood, flicking her long hair to one side. A satisfied smile appeared on her face, "You did very well, copy the video for me."


    "I''ve already copied it," the female paparazzo handed her a USB drive.


    Yang Wanwan took the USB drive, gaze full of satisfaction towards the female paparazzo. She went up and hugged her, "Thank you for everything you''ve done for me."


    The female paparazzo was extremely excited and happy, face flushed as she nodded, "I will definitely protect you well!"


    "Mm, you should go first, it won''t be good if someone finds you here."


    Yang Wanwan smiled with a nod. Not daring to linger, the female paparazzo quickly left.


    After the female paparazzo left, Yang Wanwan''s smile gradually turned to disgust. She shuddered in revulsion, scoffing as she cursed, "So cheap, how disgusting!"


    The female paparazzo could never have imagined that the idol she wholeheartedly protected would have this kind of facial expression. Clutching her camera, she happily went to stake out Rong Dai, her mission being to closely follow Rong Dai and provide "explosive material" to Yang Wanwan!


    Meanwhile, Yang Wanwan had a face mask on and was posting the video she had copied to her fan club group under the guise of a fan, adding captions like "Rong Dai''s affair".


    As soon as the video was posted, her fan club group blew up immediately! Many fans downloaded it and uploaded it to Weibo to expose the affair!

 Chapter 163: Good morning, Timothy

    <h4>Chapter 163</h4>


    After Rong Dai handled themunication with Qiao Wanzhou and little sister, she was so tired that she fell asleep. Her cell phone notification light shed crazily.


    When Huo Shao Ting came out of the bathroom, he saw that she was already asleep. He affectionately pecked her red lips.


    When he saw her cell phone shing crazily, he picked it up, originally wanting to turn it off and throw it aside.


    But the message prompt on the screen shocked him with the words "Rong Dai cheated". He opened it to look, and his face suddenly became gloomy.


    He nced at Rong Dai sleeping soundly on the bed, and his eyes showed cold and icy meaning. He picked up his own phone and went to call Zhang Assistant.


    Zhang Assistant had just lied down and didn''t even have time to be intimate with his darling wife. When he heard the task assigned by the boss, he was even more annoyed than Huo Shao Ting!


    "Why can''t these women just live well? They have to make trouble!"


    Zhang Assistant roared angrily, then had no choice but to deal with it.


    Anyone who was disturbed at this time would be in a very bad mood.


    So Zhang Assistant went above and beyond.


    He collected all the big info that Yang Wanwan had hidden, almost investigating her ancestry for eighteen generations.


    "Boss, is this okay?"


    Half an hourter, he sent all the information to Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the information above, and the corner of his mouth curled into an evil and cold smile. His voice was cold: "Satisfied."


    Zhang Assistant, who was replying to messages on his cell phone, suddenly shuddered. This time someone was really going to "die" thoroughly.


    Why do something bad? She had to court death.


    Not only courting death, but even daring to cuckold the boss. This was no longer a matter of life or death.


    Offending the boss, no one had a good oue.


    And the wife was the boss''s soft spot. Offending the wife was equivalent to strangling the boss''s throat.


    "Good luck."


    Zhang Assistant turned off his cell phone screen and silently prayed for Yang Wanwan, then hugged his wife and rolled into the sheets.


    Yang Wanwan saw Weibo paralyzed for a while. In just over an hour, the Inte was filled with condemnation of Rong Dai!


    She was very, very satisfied, humming a song, then went to take a bath and slept beautifully.


    Huo Mei Shu, who had just calmed down not long ago, was so angry when she saw this news that she immediately started fighting with Wan fans on Weibo!


    After cursing a few words, she received a text message from Huo Shao Ting.


    Sheughed immediately and saw those angry Wan fans raging on the Inte. She was at ease and didn''t bother to pay attention.


    Qiao Wanzhou didn''t expect Yang Wanwan to be so suicidal either. When she saw this news while reviewing the script with her agent, she couldn''t help but chuckle softly: "It seems she really doesn''t know her own weight and has no idea who she has offended."


    The agent nced at the news on Weibo and looked at her: "Do you really want to get involved in this mess?"


    Qiao Wanzhou put down the script and looked at the agent confidently with a smile: "Trust me, my vision won''t go wrong. That Rong Dai is not a simple role."


    "My little gesture of goodwill is just a small thing for me. A flower''s beauty onlysts a short while. Can you guarantee that I will stay this popr forever? More friends mean more options, there''s nothing wrong with that. Besides, the Qiao family and the Huo family do have some connection."


    The agent had no choice but to let her go.


    Over the years, she could see Qiao Wanzhou''s hard work. Doing a small thing ording to her heart asionally was okay.


    Rong Dai slept soundly this night. When she opened her eyes in the morning, she saw Huo Shao Ting still beside her. Her face instantly showed a smile, and she took the initiative to climb onto his chest and kissed his cheek: "Good morning, Shao Ting."


    She was rarely so proactive, which made Huo Shao Ting very pleasantly surprised. The passion in his body erupted again instantly, and he turned over to press her down.


    "Ah--"


    Rong Dai eximed, and the next second was submerged in his storm.


    Getting drenched in sweat so early in the morning, Rong Dai was so angry she wanted to w the walls.


    Especially since he left a lot of marks of their passion on her body that wouldn''t fade for three to five days.


    She was in the crew now!


    Filming was about to start soon. If someone else saw it...


    She stared at him resentfully, hating him so much her teeth itched!


    But she was soon attracted by the barrage of prompt tones from her phone. Enduring the soreness of her body, she picked up her phone and looked at it carefully.


    "Hmm!"


    Seeing the exploding news above, she suddenly widened her eyes!


    When did she cheat? She didn''t even know herself.


    "I cheated?"


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting with her phone,pletely baffled.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her and nodded seriously: "The other party is me."


    Rong Dai smiled helplessly and shook her head, looking at the endless news above. She simply muted her phone.


    "Eating such an explosive gossip so early in the morning, how interesting."


    She got out of bed. She still had the opening ceremony today, she couldn''t dy time.


    "How do you want to handle this?" the man asked her.


    Rong Dai raised her eyebrows with a smile: "Don''t you already have an idea in mind?"


    This guy could still be so calm now. He had obviously already thought of a strategy.


    This matter had already touched his bottom line.


    There was a glint in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes. He put his arm around her slender waist and kissed her smooth back.


    Rong Dai gave him a charming reproachful look. The couple didn''t need to say anything, everything was implicit.


    Daring to cuckold Huo Shao Ting, the other party probably wouldn''t know how they died.


    She said she would handle the banquet thing herself, but she didn''t say she would handle this matter herself.


    This had already offended Shao Ting, and he would handle it. She had no opinion at all.


    It was good that she could also learn.


    The couple''s mood was not disturbed, and they enjoyed breakfast beautifully.


    Rong Dai put on an evening gown, and Huo Shao Ting was also dressed in a suit. The two stood together and were a natural perfect match.


    "Are you sure you want to go with me to the opening ceremony?"


    Rong Dai asked him.


    After all, this was not his style.


    "I must support my wife''s career," Huo Shao Ting answered seriously.


    The couple was talking when there was a knock at the door.


    Huo Mei Shu brought the makeup artist over. Seeing that Rong Dai was already dressed up, and her elder brother was also well-groomed, she knew what he was going to do.


    Thinking that she would soon see the bitch get what she deserved, she was delighted.


    That Yang Wanwan was so hateful!


    She waste and lost the role herself, yet med sister-inw for it. She was truly shameless!


    "Sister-inw, this is the makeup artist I invited. You can''t keep appearing on camera bare-faced like this."


    Huo Mei Shu quickly spoke up.


    Rong Dai nodded and nced at the makeup artist.


    "Mrs. Huo, my name is Zhu Li," said Zhu Li very politely. While speaking, she put down her tools and sized up Rong Dai''s facial features.

 Chapter 164: Love to send lawyer letter

    <h4>Chapter 164</h4>


    Zhu Li was an excellent make-up artist. The make-up she did for Rong Dai was very elegant, maintaining her temperament perfectly.


    "Sister-inw, you look amazing!"


    Seeing her sister-inw''s appearance after make-up, Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but exim in admiration.


    "Mrs. Huo has a very malleable facial structure. Plus, her skin is wless with a unique temperament. Even with light make-up, she looks stunning," Zhu Li exined with a faint smile as she packed up her tools.


    Looking at herself in the mirror, Rong Dai knew she had a very beautiful face, and her temperament after make-up was even better - an surreal kind of beauty.


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her deeply with his dark eyes. When Rong Dai met his eyes, her earlobes couldn''t help but flush red.


    He remembered they hadn''t taken their wedding photos yet. She must look very beautiful in a wedding dress.


    "Let''s go, or we''ll bete."


    Feeling a little embarrassed by the three people staring at her, Rong Dai quickly spoke up.


    The group then went downstairs to the venue, seeing reporters armed with all kinds of cameras in the distance.


    "Rong Dai is here!"


    Someone shouted, and instantly Rong Dai felt her eyes were nearly blinded by the shlights.


    Although security blocked them, these reporters were just too crazy!


    Huo Shao Ting shielded her tightly, thinking he must get good bodyguards for his wife. Her petite body definitely couldn''t withstand these people''s madness.


    "Isn''t that Boss Huo?"


    Finally, someone''s attention was drawn to Huo Shao Ting.


    "Boss Huo, did youe after hearing about your wife''s affair?"


    A fearless reporter asked.


    Huo Shao Ting halted, his handsome face cold and stern, his authoritative, icy gaze fixed on the inquiring reporter.


    He already had a powerful aura. Silent like this, he looked very intimidating!


    The reporters instantly fell silent.


    "Who told you my wife was having an affair? Or do you have any evidence?"


    "I..."


    The reporter was rendered speechless, this was already wildly spread online, and there was even video. How could it be fake?


    But she didn''t dare ask.


    "If not, then get ready to receive awyer''s letter."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke very coldly, his powerful aura making it a little hard for the reporters to breathe.


    Which reporter in the capital didn''t know this Boss Huo''s favorite hobby was sendingwyer''s letters?


    "I don''t care who you guys hype up or use for your news. But don''t touch my wife. Even if I, Huo Shao Ting, lose everything, I will make sure you go bankrupt first."


    His words made the scene dead silent.


    Rong Dai looked at the man, feeling very warm inside.


    The feeling of being protected was really nice.


    She believed Huo Shao Ting''s words were sincere.


    She squeezed his hand.


    "I''m...I''m sorry. I just saw the online video. I..."


    The inquiring reporter was so frightened she turned pale, and quickly apologized. She didn''t expect a simple question to bring such disaster!


    "Hearsay is unreliable, seeing is believing, but sometimes what you see with your eyes isn''t necessarily the truth. Miss, please be careful with your words in front of my husband in the future. I won''t make a big deal out of this incident."


    Of course Rong Dai wouldn''t really make Huo Shao Ting send awyer''s letter to the young girl. Deterring her was enough.


    Otherwise, it would just be bullying.


    In other industries it would be fine, but in this circle, right and wrong were often hard to distinguish.


    With this, she signalled Huo Shao Ting with her eyes. He understood, and his sharp, authoritative gaze softened. "You''re saved by my wife this time."


    Forcibly making the other remember this favor!


    Rong Dai felt a little exasperated inside.


    "Th-Thank you Mrs. Huo."


    Scared half to death, the female reporter quickly nodded and bowed in gratitude.


    Rong Dai didn''t reply, just took Huo Shao Ting''s arm and went to their seats.


    "So you knew early on that he woulde? No wonder you weren''t worried at allst night when that huge scandal broke."


    Lu Ye said resentfully to Huo Shao Jie, ck eye circles apparent.


    Huo Shao Jie shrugged. After all, these days his elder brother had been with his sister-inw, overturning his understanding of the former cold and distant elder brother.


    "He''s very protective, especially of my sister-inw. Also, he''s very childish and lovesick."


    Lu Ye had just taken a sip of water and nearly choked to death.


    Protective could still make sense, but childish and lovesick, what on earth?


    Looking at Huo Shao Ting, his cold, frosty face actually revealed tenderness. Recalling the various things in the capital, he believed it.


    "Some people are going to be unlucky, and maybe implicate a whole circle of people."


    Huo Shao Jie said lightly, also in a very good mood.


    Lu Ye nodded in great agreement. Their gazes unconsciously swept towards Yang Wanwan at the same time.


    "Heaven will punish the wicked."


    The actor sitting behind them: "..."


    Director, is it really okay for you two to say this?


    Yang Wanwan felt like she was sitting on pins and needles. She didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to show up.


    The viciousments towards Rong Dai online had already paralyzed Weibo twice fromst night until now. The number of reposts and shares of those two videos had nearly doubled.


    Even if she wanted to suppress it, it was already impossible!


    She was extremely panicked, even her palms were sweating, her entire face pale white.


    Even the actors who were originally sitting with her avoided her to not get implicated.


    Although the Huo enterprise wasn''t an industry boss in this circle, making them suffer would be too easy.


    No one was willing to provoke such misfortune.


    Yang Wanwan was uneasy with fear. Her phone suddenly vibrated, scaring her tremendously!


    Seeing the caller ID, she couldn''t help swallowing, her heart nearly jumping out.


    "He-Hello...Mr. Wang."


    "Vicious bitch! See what you''ve done! Of all people, why did you have to offend Rong Dai! Don''t you know your own limits? F*cking cheap slut! Don''te looking for me again! Get as far away as possible! Vicious bitch!"


    On his end, Mr. Wang''s fat beer belly heaved as his whole face turned purple with rage!


    He roared fiercely into the phone, then smashed it to smithereens!


    "Mr. Wang, please let me exin..."


    Yang Wanwan''s voice trembled, but before she could finish speaking, a loud noise came through the phone, followed by the busy tone.


    She was stunned in her seat,pletely dumbfounded.


    Even her agent had disappeared, sending her a message to terminate their contract. What was worse, many brands that had contracts with herpany also terminated them one after another.

 Chapter 165: The Revenge of Timothy Fok

    <h4>Chapter 165</h4>


    When Yang Wanwan saw these messages, she felt chilled from head to toe. Although it was the height of summer, she felt as if she had been plunged into icy water.


    The piercing, suffocating cold made her feel as if she would be killed.


    Her phone rang soon after��it was her agency.


    Without guessing, she knew thepany that had signed her must be extremely panicked right now. After berating her, they would cancel her contract!


    Yang Wanwan didn''t even have a chance to defend herself before the call ended.


    Then her agency posted a statement and terms for termination on Weibo. Seeing the length ofpensation listed, she shook in fright!


    How could things have gone this way?!


    Her agency''s actions angered her fans, who cursed thepany until its servers nearly crashed!


    But Yang Wanwan''s agency responded with just a few words: she brought it on herself.


    Just as these fans were still unsure what had happened, several very clear videos appeared online. They all showed Yang Wanwan''s face, just with the men blurred out.


    The content of these clipped videos was explosive, but anything that needed to be covered was. There was nothing illegal about them.


    There were even some very, very clear audio recordings. At that point, Weibo froze for a time.


    Yang Wanwan had a huge fanbase, but that didn''t mean she was universally beloved.


    Plus, her temper had offended many in the industry. Now, who wouldn''t take the chance to kick her while she was down?


    The previously vocal Wan fans fell silent, stunned into muteness like firing duds. They hunched their shoulders in shock.


    "No, that''s not it, that''s not me..."


    Yang Wanwan''s pale, powerless exnations were not believed byizens at all. In less than half an hour,


    her contract termination, ck history��everything was revealed.


    On the spot, Yang Wanwan became a pariah, with everyone shouting her down.


    The keyboard warriors online immediately turned on her. However much they had defended Yang Wanwan before, now they could attack her just as viciously!


    Even her fans were confused,pletely unclear how their idol''s dirtyundry had been aired.


    Moreover, these videos and recordings had been authenticated by authoritative agencies. Yang Wanwan''s cries of injustice just seemed ridiculous.


    The people who hade to the opening ceremony felt regret. Although some knew the inside story, they also knew who backed her. So they avoided getting involved if they could.


    But who could have expected this?


    At a time when the man behind her was barely protecting himself, how could he still be shielding her?


    If it was power, Huo Shaoting had it.


    If it was money, Huo Shaoting had it.


    How could she, a mere overnight sensation who rose by selling her soul,pare?


    As that most truthful saying goes��if you don''t court death, you won''t die.


    If Yang Wanwan hadn''t arrogantly provoked Rong Daist night, how could this have happened today?


    What goes aroundes around. When the god of misfortunees calling, who can withstand it?


    One can only say that Yang Wanwan overestimated herself, trying to smash a rock with an egg.


    "What a pity. I''d wanted to reveal more shocking news, but now I can only gild the lily," Qiao Wanzhou said with a faint smile, tossing her beautiful hair. Then she uploadedst night''s video to her mega-popr Weibo.


    She was a top actress in her own right, with even more fans than Yang Wanwan.


    Just five minutes after she uploaded the video, it already had over a thousand reposts andments.


    "Fuck! This bitch is shameless to an unbelievable degree! She poured wine on Mrs. Huo then acted pitiful! I suspect she nned it all along!"


    "Scheming bitch!"


    "Scheming bitch +1"


    "Scheming bitch +10086"


    With Qiao Wanzhou taking the lead, Huo Shaojie''s side also had the crew release a statement, even digging up audition tapes from that day.


    Seeing the flood of abuse online, and her fans'' questioning in their chat group, Yang Wanwan went numb all over. She slid from her seat onto the ground.


    "It wasn''t me, someone put me up to it..." she replied to the fan group, trembling and panicked, trying to hold on to these fans.


    "Put you up to it? Yang Wanwan, are you three years old? Who could have put you up to something like this?"


    "I was so wrong about you. You pretend to be so sunny, but actually so despicable! cklisting you for life!"


    "Right, I was up all night supporting you and defending you online, only to find you deceived your fans like this!"


    Yang Wanwan''s fan group was filled with furious fans scolding her. After they were done, they left the group.


    "Don''t go! You wanted autographed photos, right? I''ll agree to anything!"


    Yang Wanwan saw her fan count plummeting at a crazy speed. Panic surged in her heart as she called out powerlessly!


    "forget it. Now you''re lower than a rat, who still wants your autograph? I''m burning all my stuff rted to you when I get home! Giving it back to you!"


    A fan mocked coldly. However much they defended Yang Wanwan before, now they loathed her just as much.


    Blow after blownded��Huo Shaoting even revealed a shocking expos�� that Yang Wanwan had sent female fans to stalk Rong Dai.


    Looking into these matters was all too easy for him.


    Finally, he also presented flight and hotel records proving he was with his wifest night.


    Even the diehard Wan fans who had clung to thest shred of hope were deted now, not even bothering to say anything. They simply left the chat group.


    When the fan group count dropped to just her, Yang Wanwan couldn''t help bawling loudly!


    She didn''t even dare to look at the messages online anymore.


    She wiped her tears and looked toward the Rong couple on the floor.


    As long as Huo Shaoting nodded, she still had hope!


    "Take Ms. Yang away. Don''t let her disrupt the opening ceremony."


    Seeing her intention, Lu Ye disgustedly had security escort her out. The air seemed much fresher instantly.


    Although the news online was explosive, it didn''t prevent the opening ceremony for ��The Supetive Empress Dowager�� from proceeding smoothly.


    Other than Yang Wanwan''s dramatics, everything went off without a hitch.


    Naturally, the Rong couple trended on social media.


    On their way back to the hotel after the ceremony, because Huo Shaoting still needed to hurry back to Shengjing.


    "Chairman Huo! Please spare me! I''ll do anything you ask! I...I can apany you! As long as you need it, tell me to do anything! I know I was wrong, please spare me!"


    Just after the couple exited the elevator, a disheveled Yang Wanwan suddenly rushed out and knelt before Huo Shaoting, grabbing his pant leg and begging for mercy.


    Right in front of Rong Dai, she shamelessly made such an offer.


    Rong Dai frowned. She truly didn''t understand what that big shot who helped raise Yang Wanwan was thinking!


    This woman took brainless to new heights.


    "Scram!"


    Huo Shaoting rarely lost his temper, but his expression instantly darkened. He kicked away Yang Wanwan''s grasping hands without mercy.


    Yang Wanwan tumbled backwards with a cry, weeping piteously.


    "Chairman Huo, please, I really will do anything..." Unwilling to give up, she crawled over to grab at Huo Shaoting again.


    The hotel security timely arrived to escort her away.

 Chapter 166: Do You Want Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 166</h4>


    The gossip online about Yang Wanwan raged fiercely but Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting remained indifferent.


    Huo Shao Ting dyed his return flight to Shengjing and asked about when Huo Shao Jie would finish filming. Based on Rong Dai��s scenes, she would need seven to eight months of shooting time.


    That day, he immediately bought two high-end renovated apartments, one for her to live in and one for Huo Mei Shu.


    In addition, he called over two bodyguards from Shengjing and installed surveince at the apartment doors before Huo Shao Ting felt reassured to return to Shengjing.


    ��My big brother is really...extravagant!��


    Huo Mei Shu would live right across from Rong Dai. Here were high-end apartments with only two units per floor.


    Just because his sister-inw would be staying here for seven to eight months, her big brother bought them just like that without blinking an eye.


    Rong Dai felt very helpless too but living in a hotel was definitely unsafe.


    If Yang Wanwan could appear in the hotel to block their way, Rong Dai would never risk her own life.


    Although she knew buying two apartments all at once like this could lead to usations of her being pretentious from outsiders, it was much safer here than living in a hotel and also more convenient. Therefore, she did not reject his arrangements.


    Yang Wanwan��s scandal did not impact Rong Dai. After settling into the apartment, she concentrated on studying the script without any other distractions.


    On the first day of filming, she only needed two takes before nailing the rest of her scenes in one take.


    ��She is very talented as an actress.��


    Even top stars like Qiao Wanzhou could not help but praise her. Of course she had seen Rong Dai��s audition video.


    But it was only a short segment. Although she could tell Rong Dai had some talent, for a sessful actor, talent was just the icing on the cake. More important were one''s own hard work and experience.


    Yet in these few scenes, Rong Dai had shown strong bursts of energy and grasped the role��s essence very aptly, demonstrating excellent liveliness.


    Lu Ye was also very satisfied. The cast members who had doubted Rong Dai at the beginning also gracefully shut their mouths.


    No matter if Rong Dai was a newbie or not, her performance was not inferior to any veteran method actor.


    This made Qiao Wanzhou look forward to acting with her even more. "Your sister-inw is very hardworking. This is definitely not just due to her talent."


    Huo Mei Shu chimed in on the side.


    She truly admired this sister-inw more and more.


    No matter what she did, she was very serious about it. At the Huo residence, other than embroidery, Sister-in-Law spent most of her time studying the script.


    These past few days living in the apartment, she read the script over and over, pulling her to run lines together.


    When she was tired, Sister-in-Law still pushed herself on with spirit, even running lines alone facing a wall. Sister-in-Law''s dedication and perseverance were things she witnessed very clearly.


    "That makes it even more interesting. I look forward even more to working with her. Your sister-inw really is extraordinary."


    Qiao Wanzhou spared no praise.


    "Of course!" Huo Mei Shu answered quite proudly, feeling honored.


    The production was in full swing here but Yang Wanwan, who had her contract terminated right at the opening ceremony which left her reputation stinking, felt extremely awkward.


    Plus the various terminationpensation fees, along with her strong vanity, she had earned a lot these past few years but also spent a lot. After thepensation fees, she was now in debt.


    She only dared to cover her face and hide out in a shabby youth hostel, squeezing together with all kinds of questionable people. She felt regret and rage!


    But now she was just an abandoned doll that no one cared for. The online insults had not stopped. There were even reporters trailing her whereabouts.


    Yang Wanwan felt hopeless and unwilling, but also powerless to change things.


    When she got into trouble, even her own parents abandoned her. All these years, her parents only saw her as a money tree.


    Now that she was useless, of course they would not care if she lived or died.


    Yang Wanwan choked back tears as she gnawed on a moldy steamed bun, looking as pitiful as a rat in a gutter.


    ��Yo, isn��t this our famous Yang Wanwan? These past few days I felt you looked familiar. Didn''t expect it really is you. Keeping those big shots happy huh? Now this is a pitiful situation you''re in.��


    Several local punks who lived there suddenly came back, seeing her curled up in the corner nibbling a bun. The malicious intent on their faces was very obvious.


    Yang Wanwan looked at them despairingly, without even the courage to beg for mercy.


    She knew early on that offending Rong Dai would lead to this oue, but no matter what, she would not have done it!


    But what use was there in saying all this now?


    Now she was not even as good as a stinking rat. At least rats had nests while she did not even have that.


    "Do you want revenge?"


    When Yang Wanwan woke up, it was already dark. In the foul-smelling, tattered dorm room, the bunk beds emitted an unpleasant metallic odor.


    The room lights were not turned on. In the darkness, a person sat on the bunk bed opposite her, asking coldly.


    "Who are you?"


    Yang Wanwan asked back.


    "Who I am is unimportant. You just need to know that if you want Rong Dai to pay the price, I will help you."


    Yang Yue answered coldly.


    These past few days, Yang Wanwan felt like she was living in hell. She was already terrified.


    "Why should I believe you?"


    Yang Yue gave a coldugh. "Other than believing me now, what other options do you have? Who else around you is willing to offend Huo Shao Ting to help you?"


    His reply left Yang Wanwan speechless.


    That''s right. Now who else would be willing to offend Huo Shao Ting to help her?


    She was also very clear that in those social circles, many were delighted to see her downfall. How could they possibly lend a helping hand?


    "But I can help you."


    Yang Yue''s voice was cold but it gave Yang Wanwan hope.


    "What do I need to do?"


    She asked tremblingly.


    If possible, she of course did not want to offend Rong Dai.


    But now she had no choice. She had offended her.


    And the other party had pushed her to this state. How could she not hate Rong Dai?


    Now no matter where she went, she did not dare show her face. Of course she wanted revenge!


    Even if it meant death, she wanted to drag Rong Dai down with her!


    It was all because of Rong Dai that she had fallen into such dire straits!


    She was already a wretch. Before she died, she would drag Rong Dai down too!


    That whore must die!


    If not for the Huo family, how could a whore like her be able topare with herself?


    "Just do as I instruct. The rest you don''t need to worry about. You just need to listen to my orders."


    Yang Wanwan hesitated a few seconds. Thinking of what happened today, she did not want to live this subhuman life anymore!


    "I agree!"


    She practically gnashed out these words.


    "Very good." Yang Yue said lightly as he stood up.


    He took off his suit jacket and threw it to her, turning his back and walking out of this filthy room.


    Yang Wanwan got up and wrapped herself in his jacket before following him out.


    Seeing those local punks kneeling on the floor with bruised and swollen faces, she looked at Yang Yue''s back gratefully and limped after him.

 Chapter 167: The Two of Us

    <h4>Chapter 167</h4>


    After several scenes in a row, Rong Dai was very serious and hardworking.


    As the old saying goes, opportunity always favors the prepared.


    And Rong Dai happened to be this kind of person.


    In the past period of time, she had followed Jiang Ling around various film studios and photography studios, watching dramas and looking up information.


    Although that period of time was very tiring, the rewards were also very rich.


    Now she could see the results.


    As long as it was Rong Dai''s scenes over the past few days, her shots were almost all done in one take. Privately, she would hold the script and mark it all over.


    Lu Ye was known in the industry for being extremely demanding. If an actor couldn''t even say their lines properly, they would be kicked out in minutes.


    It went without saying that Huo ShaoJie would be even more demanding, since this drama was his brainchild. His requirements would be even stricter.


    Rong Dai had just finished a scene and was sitting to the side resting.


    "Would you like some water?"


    She was carefully dabbing away sweat with a tissue, taking care not to smudge her makeup. Suddenly, a voice sounded over her head.


    She looked up and let out a faint smile, reaching out to take the bottled mineral water: "Thank you."


    Zhou Jing nced at her, a smile appearing on his refined, cultivated face. He pulled over a small stool and sat down next to her, twisting open a bottle of water and taking a drink.


    "I didn''t expect your talent to be so good. I''ve been in this industry for so many years, and I''ve never seen a female actor soposed."


    Rong Dai also twisted open her mineral water and took a small sip. Her voice was light as she replied, "Thank you for thepliment."


    Zhou Jing was the male lead in this drama.


    He hadn''t attended the wee banquet or opening ceremony, only arriving on set after his scenes yesterday.


    It wasn''t that Zhou Jing was putting on airs, but rather that his schedule was too full and couldn''t be coordinated.


    Zhou Jing was currently a hot, talented actor. Although not yet thirty, his aplishments were already impressive.


    To put it in industry terms, Zhou Jing was already a veteran senior.


    "Zhou Jing, I don''t like hearing you say that. Does that mean in your eyes, newbies can only get by on talent? They can''t rely on their own ability?"


    As the two were talking, Qiao Wanzhou''s voice cut in.


    "Wanzhou," Zhou Jing said with a faint smile, also passing a bottle of water over.


    Qiao Wanzhou immediately felt goosebumps all over her body, involuntarily shivering as she shot him a frosty look. "It''s been so many years, senior. You still call me that?"


    Zhou Jing maintained his usual mild smile. "Force of habit."


    Seeing the interaction between these two people, Rong Dai suddenly recalled that ording to their files, they were alumni from the same school.


    Her intuition had always been very urate.


    There seemed to be something between these two.


    "Rong Dai,e rehearse lines with me. Our scene is up next."


    Qiao Wanzhou ignored him and pulled Rong Dai to leave.


    Rong Dai hurriedly twisted the cap back on and bid Zhou Jing farewell. "Senior Zhou, I''ll be going first."


    Zhou Jing smiled helplessly and nodded.


    "Why are you calling him senior? No need to be so polite with him!"


    Qiao Wanzhou brought her to her own private rehearsal room. She had specifically requested this from the crew, and with her fame and acting skills, it was a demand they could meet.


    Rong Dai smiled faintly, not answering her.


    "Come, sit down." Qiao Wanzhou didn''t put on any airs, pointing to a chair for her to sit.


    Rong Dai sat down. Qiao Wanzhou also took a seat, handing the script over to her.


    "These past few days I''ve been watching your performances. Your acting has really surprised me, and made me a little impatient to act opposite you."


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke while attentively looking over the script.


    Rong Dai smiled faintly and nodded. This drama was very simr to some of the events in her past life, except for the different ending.


    Her ending was being reborn into thister world.


    But the Empress in this drama was even more resolute and brave than Rong Dai''s past self. She broke with the Emperor, led troops to rescue her maternal n, and personally overturned the Emperor''s world.


    Such an ending was not unsatisfactory.


    Qiao Wanzhou yed the Imperial Concubine, who entered the pce with the beauties and was conferred as a concubine. She was not the daughter of a traitorous minister, because the Emperor had arranged everything for her.


    "Ready? Let''s start."


    Qiao Wanzhou cleared her throat and entered character in a second.


    Rong Dai didn''t dare be negligent either. After closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, she cast aside distracting thoughts and immersed herself in the role.


    The two rehearsed lines in the small room, while Zhou Jing leaned against the wall outside, steadily drinking water, a hint of mncholy in his deep eyes.


    Half an hourter, Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou exited their characters. They looked at each other and couldn''t help smiling.


    "You''re really good! No wonder a big boss like Huo ShaoTing would choose you. He has good judgement."


    Qiao Wanzhou felt extremely satisfied, generously giving her a thumbs up.


    Rong Dai smiled faintly. She also felt very gratified.


    The more she interacted with excellent people, the more she could discover her own shorings. Only this way could she be even better.


    Right after they finished rehearsing, it was time to film their scene.


    Over the past few days, Huo MeiShu had been diligently running around on set, but Gu Chengyan still hadn''te.


    This was an important scene, so Lu Ye and Huo ShaoJie were personally directing.


    The gist was that the Empress discovered incriminating evidence against the Consort, and her maternal side had already investigated the ins and outs of the matter. Here, the Empress''s heart began to change, bing estranged from the Emperor.


    When they heard the "action" cue, Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou both entered their characters.


    Qiao Wanzhou was already a top actress, extremely versatile with different roles.


    She had personally chosen this script, so naturally there were no issues with her acting.


    Everyone was very confident in Qiao Wanzhou. Most gazes were focused on Rong Dai.


    Although Rong Dai''s performances over the past few days were remarkable, showing no traces of a newbie, this scene required a powerful emotional outburst. The Empress''splex emotions of shock, anger, hatred and grievance were veryplicated in this scene.


    If Rong Dai didn''t handle it well, this scene could easily be the hardest to film today.


    Lu Ye and Huo ShaoJie were both watching her closely, and not a single person on set dared make a sound.


    "This concubine pays respects to Her Imperial Majesty."


    Qiao Wanzhou, ying the gentle Noble Concubine Chun, entered the Empress''s pce with pce maids. She moved with graceful etiquette, cautiously and weakly. Her pitiable appearance was vividly portrayed.


    Faced with her, not just men, even women would be reluctant to berate her harshly.


    Rong Dai wore imperial robes, seated in the rear.


    Seeing Noble Concubine Chun arrive, her expression was very stern,plex emotions flickering in her eyes - puzzlement, resentment, anger - just for an instant before she resumed herposure.


    Her face was calm as she maintained the dignity and elegance befitting the mother of a nation.


    "You may sit."


    She lightly instructed, then lowered her gaze to drink some tea.

 Chapter 168: Yung Dai Fainted

    <h4>Chapter 168</h4>


    "This is the new tea I got. Please try it, Noble Concubine."


    Rong Dai took a sip of the tea and looked at Noble Concubine Chun. Although her expression was calm, her eyes were not. She concealed her subtle emotions very well, easily leading people on.


    "Many thanks, Imperial Concubine."


    Noble Concubine Chun thanked her and took a sip of the tea.


    Rong Dai watched her the entire time. Seeing her reaction to such a precious tribute tea was so nd, Rong Dai''s eyes suddenly turned sinister.


    "Recently I''ve obtained some information. I wonder if Noble Concubine can rify it for me?"


    When Noble Concubine finished drinking the tea, put down the teacup and wiped the corners of her mouth with a handkerchief, Rong Dai revealed a meaningful smile. With a look, she signaled a pce maid to hand over an investigated document.


    Seeing the document, Noble Concubine was startled. A hint of coldness shed through her beautiful eyes, but it disappeared very quickly.


    "Take a look, Noble Concubine?" The Empress said lightly with a smile.


    "Empress, this concubine is illiterate and afraid I can''t rify it for you."


    Noble Concubine declined.


    "Oh?" Rong Dai drew out her voice. Her gaze never left Noble Concubine. Restraint and hatred intertwined in her eyes.


    "You are very bold! As the daughter of a traitorous official, you actually deceived His Majesty and took the ce of a maiden to enter the pce as a consort! Corrupting the inner pce like this, what more can you say, Noble Concubine?"


    Rong Dai''s eyes suddenly became extremely sharp. Her voice rose in volume, full of majesty and anger. The dignity of an empress was fully revealed.


    Many people were startled by Rong Dai''s sudden outburst.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s heart also skipped a beat. She quickly knelt down with an anxious and uneasy expression, "May the Empress see clearly. How would this concubine dare to do such unfilial acts?"


    "You don''t dare? ording to what I know, Prime Minister Yuan''s family was executed for treason. Three months before the Yuan family was raided, they had just had a daughter named Yuan Chun."


    "I had people investigate this personally. Are you suggesting they deliberately fabricated this to deceive me? Who exactly arranged for you to enter the pce? And why?"


    "If you do not confess the truth, don''t me me for interrogating you."


    Rong Dai spoke each word with majesty. Her face was taut and solemn yet cold. Her anger and hatred intertwined, fully demonstrating her resentment and malice.


    "This concubine...cannot say." Still kneeling on the ground, Noble Concubine lowered her eyes. The panic and unease on her face hadpletely vanished, reced by perfect calmness.


    Seeing this, Rong Dai, ying the role of Empress, narrowed her beautiful eyes andmanded in a deep voice, "Come, beat Noble Concubine to death with clubs!"


    "Empress, you mustn''t! Our mistress...was arranged by His Majesty to enter the pce."


    Hearing the Empress'' fury, the pce maid serving Noble Concubine panicked. She exined in a trembling voice with her head down.


    "His Majesty? Even now, you still want to deny it, Noble Concubine?"


    The concubine Qiao Wanzhou portrayed suddenly stood up from the ground. She looked at Rong Dai with an icy expression, "It''s true that His Majesty arranged for me to enter the pce. Why else would the Empress force me to admit it directly?"


    "I admit it. I was brought into the pce by His Majesty."


    The smile on the face of Rong Dai as the Empress gradually faded away. The majesty of an empress emerged once again as her eyes turned cold and murderous.


    "I have no control? I helped him ascend the throne, so I can also make him abdicate. Noble Concubine, if you don''t believe me, just ry my words to His Majesty."


    "You and His Majesty deceived me, took advantage of me and my n. Now that His Majesty feels secure in his position, he brought you into the pce. What deep affection between mandarin ducks!"


    The Empress gave a coldugh. Her smile was majestic yet cold and resentful, demonstrating her hatred and resentment to the fullest.


    "I have been childless for many years. It turns out His Majesty made me barren long ago. I will never bear children in this lifetime."


    "Yet His Majesty had illegitimate children with you outside the pce. The children are innocent. But how innocent am I? To be your stepping stone?"


    When Rong Dai performed this part, scenes from her past life would appear in her mind. This scene was so simr to her past life!


    That piercing pain, that skin-deep hatred, burned inside her!


    She was fully immersed in character.


    Rong Dai''s emotional outpour stunned the entire studio. Even Qiao Wanzhou did not expect this. Rong Dai''s acting reached another levelpared to their rehearsal.


    After this scene, Rong Dai was a little exhausted. Many people on set looked at her with admiration and approval. Some actors came over topliment her.


    But Rong Dai looked listless, as if all her energy had been drained.


    Scenes from her past life shed chaotically in her mind, like floodwaters after a dam burst. It felt as if a huge hand was kneading her brain.


    "Give her some space, let Rong Dai rest a bit. Her emotional release just now caused a little hypoxia."


    Qiao Wanzhou noticed something was off with her. As a professional actress, she understood very well that sometimes actors have difficulty separating from their roles.


    She was awed by Rong Dai''s wonderful performance just now, but she also knew Rong Dai would be very ufortable after such intense acting.


    Everyone on set understood this and dispersed ordingly.


    "Thank you, I''ll be fine after a short rest."


    Rong Dai gave a faint smile, but her hands and feet were frighteningly icy cold. Herplexion was also very pale.


    Qiao Wanzhou frowned. She reached out and felt Rong Dai''s forehead but didn''t notice anything abnormal. She supported Rong Dai to the side to sit down.


    Huo Mei Shu came over holding a thermos, looking at her brightly, "Sister-inw, you were so amazing! Just now my heart nearly stopped from fright. This is simmered silver fungus and bird''s nest. Drink some to moisten your throat."


    Rong Dai didn''t decline. She nodded, but her hands shook slightly holding the thermos. Beads of sweat had also appeared on her forehead.


    "Sister-inw, are you alright?"


    Seeing her like this, Huo Mei Shu was badly frightened.


    "Go get a thermometer and some menthtum," Qiao Wanzhou instructed Huo Mei Shu while supporting Rong Dai.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded and immediately turned to fetch the items.


    "Rong Dai, Rong Dai! Wake up!"


    Huo Mei Shu had just taken two steps when Rong Dai fainted. The thermos fell from her hand and crashed loudly on the ground. Qiao Wanzhou was also badly startled.


    Lu Ye and Huo Shaojie looked over. Seeing Rong Dai copsed on the ground, the two were scared out of their wits and ran over.


    "Sister-inw, don''t frighten me!"


    Seeing Rong Dai''s face deathly pale in her ancient costume, looking somewhat like a zombie from a movie, Huo Mei Shu cried out in rm.

 Chapter 169: Not to Save You

    <h4>Chapter 169</h4>


    "Take her to the hospital immediately!" Lu Ye said quickly. Huo ShaoJie had already picked up Rong Dai.


    Qiao Wanzhou, Zhou Jing and Huo Mei Shu, the three of them unconsciously followed along to the hospital. The other assistant directors in the studio took charge of the other shooting.


    There were not only the TV series "The Supreme Empress" being filmed in the film and television city, but also other works. Coincidentally, there were reporters interviewing in other crews, and this scene was recorded.


    The role Rong Dai yed in this drama has always received a lot of attention, and her identity was also very concerned.


    This was big news.


    Of course, after what Huo Shao Ting said at the opening ceremony of the crew of The Empress drama before, reporters did not dare to write randomly, so they sneaked into the set of the empress to inquire.


    Half an hourter.


    Rong Dai''s performance was too intense, she fainted on the set.


    Such eye-catching headlines were posted on the news, quickly upying the hot search on Weibo, with thousands ofments in just over a dozen minutes.


    There were caring ones, and malicious gloating ones.


    "Are you ready?"


    In a luxury apartment in Shenjing, Yang Yue turned off the TV with the remote control, and looked at Yang Wanwan, who was staring at the TV on the sofa with resentful eyes, and asked.


    "As long as you can help me, this life is yours. I just want Rong Dai to die!"


    She looked up at Yang Yue and took the initiative to take off her clothes.


    She used to be glorious, and her looks were also beautiful. As a popr star, of course her figure was beyond reproach.


    Yang Yue was dressed in a suit. No one could tell that he used to be the humble driver beside Wen Shi Lan.


    His eyes were calm as he looked at the naked Yang Wanwan in front of him. He thought of when he went to pick her up that day, when those gangsters plowed her.


    A trace of disgust shed deep in his eyes.


    "I''m not interested in you."


    Yang Wanwan bit her red lips, her teeth sank deeply into them, and she clenched her fists tightly.


    She lowered her once proud head, put on her clothes one by one, as if nothing had happened, and looked at him, "Are we going to Korea now?"


    "Well, the cosmetic hospital has contacted you, it''s very safe and the technology is good."


    Yang Yue answered lightly. His eyes were so deep that the bottom couldn''t be seen.


    Yang Wanwan''s clenched fist gradually rxed, and she touched her face, asking in a trembling voice, "Is this face really going to change?"


    When she was glorious before, she knew she had the capital to be arrogant, because of this face.


    But in just over a dozen days, she had tasted all the bitterness.


    She must take revenge!


    It was all because of that damned Rong Dai!


    If it wasn''t for her, how could she end up like this today?!


    "Miss Yang, you''d better remember that I saved you back not because I wanted to be merciful, let alone because I had too much money to spend."


    "I saved you, not to redeem you, but to get you to do things."


    "The way you are now makes it hard for me to believe you''ll listen to me in the future."


    "If you mess up my ns, I can make you disappear without a trace before anything happens to Rong Dai."


    Yang Yue''s eyes showed viciousness, and he said extremely coldly.


    Yang Wanwan was so frightened that her face turned pale, and her whole body shuddered. She stammered, "I... I know."


    Seeing her like this, Yang Yue''s face softened.


    "You don''t have to be afraid either. After it''s done, your face can be restored, and I''ll pay for the money."


    Yang Wanwan''s eyes lit up with joy. She nodded heavily, then boarded the flight to Korea, all of which had been arranged by Yang Yue.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t even be able to get through the cabin door with this face.


    ...


    Rong Dai woke up slowly in the hospital, with glucose dripping into the back of her hand.


    "Sister-inw."


    Huo Mei Shu had been waiting by her side. Seeing her open her eyes, she almost cried.


    Rong Dai looked at the little sister-inw and asked in a slightly weak voice, "What happened to me?"


    "You fainted and scared us to death."


    Huo Mei Shu held her hand tightly. She was really frightened just now, her heart almost stopped.


    "The doctor examined you. There is no problem. Sister-inw, your blood sugar was a little low. Next time I will prepare chocte and candy for you. If you feel ufortable again, you must tell me."


    The little sister-inw instructed her nervously.


    Rong Dai felt very warm in her heart. She nodded.


    She still remembered what happened before she fainted. That part of the y evoked her memories of her previous life. When the hatred that she thought she had forgotten surged up again, she couldn''t quite control herself.


    "I will." She replied, and looked around the ward, "I didn''t affect other people on the crew just now, did I?"


    Huo Mei Shu poured her a cup of warm water, pulled up a chair and sat by the bedside, shaking her head, "It didn''t affect anything. I guess my brother will be rushing over by now."


    "Did you tell Shao Ting?"


    Rong Dai was surprised and felt a little annoyed at herself forckingposure.


    "We didn''t tell him, but the media has already reported it. Sister-inw, you are on the hot search again now. My brother has already called me. He bought the nearest flight over."


    Huo Mei Shu exined. She was used to her sister-inw being on the hot search now.


    She had witnessed the horror of these media outlets. They could make a big fuss out of anything, big or small.


    Her brother was the only Huo''s Enterprise and the only Huo Shao Ting in China. Not everyone could do things to his level.


    "Forget it, nothing really happened anyway."


    Rong Dai shook her head helplessly.


    "I probably don''t have any scenes to shoot today. How many scenes do I have tomorrow? Help me find the script so I can go over the lines and get into character."


    Although she was unwell, Rong Dai was not being pretentious. She was afraid of dying the progress of the entire crew.


    She had already received a lot of attention when she first took on this role. Even if she was physically ufortable now, not many people would understand her situation. They would only think she was throwing star tantrums.


    The only thing she could do was try her best to get every shot in one take.


    "Sister-inw, just rest for a while, look how tired you''ve been these days!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s whole face copsed when she heard that Rong Dai still wanted to look at the script.


    "It''s okay. I can''t make other prepared actors dy because of me alone. That would be a waste of their time."


    Rong Dai shook her head. It was precisely because of this that she demanded herself to try to get every shot in one take as much as possible.

 Chapter 170: I want to make him a bowl of noodles.

    <h4>Chapter 170</h4>


    Ever since getting to know her sister-inw again, Huo Mei Shu had listened to most of what Rong Dai said. But today, she firmly refuted her words.


    "Sister-inw, just listen to me. Get some good rest and don''t think about anything else," Huo Mei Shu said as she tucked Rong Dai into bed. The air-conditioned room was still a bit chilly.


    "You only have two scenes to film tomorrow afternoon. Your health is the capital of the revolution. If you rest well today and have more energy tomorrow, won''t your performance be even better?"


    She earnestly tried to persuade Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. This was the first time she realized her little sister-inw actually had the ability to persuade someone.


    Thinking of how Huo Shao Ting woulde overter, she looked forward to it very much. Although they had only been apart for a dozen days or so, she already couldn''t help but miss him.


    Moreover, if he came over and saw her looking over scripts while lying in bed, her little sister-inw and little uncle would probably suffer.


    "Alright, I''ll listen to you," Rong Dai conceded.


    "That''s more like it! My brother probably won''t get here untilter. What would you like to eat for dinner tonight, sister-inw? I''ll go order it."


    Huo Mei Shu''s face immediately lit up with joy, just like a doting old mother.


    Rong Dai didn''t have much of an appetite. She was still worn out, both physically and mentally, from thatst scene she filmed where she had gotten too into character, which brought back memories from her past life. Her spirit still hadn''t recovered yet.


    "I want to drink some white radish pork rib soup. I don''t have much of an appetite," Rong Dai said.


    Huo Mei Shu sighed lightly. "I see. Should we stew a pigeon then? The doctor said your body is very weak and you need to frequently replenish it."


    Rong Dai nodded. She still very much enjoyed eating pigeon, which had many benefits for women.


    "Alright, I''m going to take a nap first. My head hurts a bit," Rong Dai said, herplexion still pale. She felt grateful seeing her little sister-inw busy caring for her.


    "Go ahead and sleep," Huo Mei Shu said with a nod. She then stepped out and called to order dinner.


    Rong Dai closed her eyes. Due to exhaustion from the past dozen days, she soon fell asleep.


    When she awoke again, it was already dark outside.


    "Shao Ting?"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting sitting in the chair with the room lights off, the only illuminationing from hisptop screen, she called out to him as she propped herself up in bed. She realized the IV drip in her hand had been removed.


    Huo Shao Ting got up to turn on the lights, putting hisptop aside. Seeing her paleplexion, he reached out to caress her face, deep concern and tenderness showing in his eyes.


    "How are you feeling? Still tired?" His voice was gentle, full of thick worry.


    Rong Dai felt warmth in her heart. She grasped the hand he held against her cheek and gave him a faint smile. "Much better, I''m sorry I worried you."


    Huo Shao Ting got up to embrace her tightly, his strong arms holding her firmly against him, deeply breathing in her fragrance.


    His voice contained traces of panic. "You scared me."


    He had truly been frightened.


    When he saw the news, it felt like his mind went nk except for numbness and shock.


    He feared that if she fainted again this time, she would wake up as someone else entirely.


    That was something he absolutely could not ept!


    Rong Dai was taken aback for a moment, able to hear the unease in his voice.


    "I''m sorry."


    She leaned her head on his shoulder, her arms wrapped tightly around his waist. She understood full well the implications behind those words of his.


    He was afraid she wouldn''te back. How could she not be afraid too?


    "My wife."


    Huo Shao Ting held her tightly, as if fearing she would fly away the next second. His voice was somewhat hoarse, softly calling out to her with great care.


    "I''m here, Shao Ting. I won''t leave you," Rong Dai consoled him.


    Yet even she was unclear herself whether she would go back, just like in that historical drama she had watched where the female lead ultimately returned to the present in the end. Everything she experienced in that other world was fleeting, without even a shred of historical trace.


    The two of them understood very well - this was an extremely uncertain factor.


    "Dinner has been ordered. You need to eat more to nourish your weak body."


    Huo Shao Ting released her and caressed her face, gazing at her tenderly as he spoke, then lovingly kissed her red lips.


    Although already used to such intimate gestures from him, Rong Dai''s heart would still race and her face flush.


    The two looked into each other''s eyes, their hearts filled with tender feelings that bound them closely together.


    "I''ve hired a nutritionist toe cook and nourish your body. You''ve be too thin," Huo Shao Ting said reluctantly as he let her go, taking out the insted food container and pouring out the rib soup.


    Rong Dai nodded. She did not refuse.


    She knew this was how the man before her expressed his care and cherishing of her.


    "Be careful, it''s hot."


    Like a fretful mother, Huo Shao Ting watched her drink the soup anxiously.


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry, yet her heart felt even warmer than the bowl of hot soup in her hands.


    "You haven''t eaten dinner either right? Racing all this way over such a great distance."


    Rong Dai only drank a couple mouthfuls before setting the bowl down.


    "Don''t worry about me. Focus on recovering your health first," Huo Shao Ting said, stirring the soup and blowing on it to cool it down for her.


    Rong Dai looked at him gently. "You''re my husband. Why wouldn''t I care about you?"


    Saying this caused her face to blush first.


    She seldom spoke such affectionate words. Although she had adapted to the culture here, deep down she still retained some conservative qualities from her past life.


    Writing this kind of tender sentiment in letters was one thing. But saying it outright was another matter entirely.


    Huo Shao Ting was ted. He held her face and kissed her once more.


    Rong Dai red at him indignantly. Was he treating her like a doll, biting whenever he pleased?


    "Why don''t we go back and cook dinner? There''s a supermarket nearby."


    Despite her indignance, Huo Shao Ting had done a lot for her sake, all of which she recognized.


    Yet there was little she could do for this man, since he already had almost everything.


    He was born handsome. And as the head of apany who also had to rush around on nes, she could see the fatigue on his face.


    She just wanted to make a bowl of noodles for him with her own hands.


    "I just got too into character when filming and thought of some old matters, which I didn''t control my emotions well over. Others may not understand, but you can, Shao Ting."


    "It''s nothing serious with me. Can we go back home? Please?"


    Afraid he wouldn''t agree, Rong Dai softened her voice, speaking like a little woman.


    Huo Shao Ting was most helpless against her like this. After consulting with the doctor, he brought her out of the hospital. The couple drove to the supermarket.


    Looking at the dazzling array of ingredients, Rong Dai didn''t pick anything particrly extravagant, just ordinary home-cooked ingredients.


    Huo Shao Ting was unsatisfied though. He pushed the cart around the entire supermarket, grabbing anything that could nourish the body and piling it into the cart.


    Rong Dai looked at the cart helplessly. "Shao Ting, are you nning to raise me like a pig?"


    Huo Shao Ting gently patted her head, smiling gently with a hint of teasing. "Even if you were a pig, you''d still be my pig."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Could she take back what she just said?

 Chapter 171: The Way She Is

    <h4>Chapter 171</h4>


    After the couple returned to their apartment, Rong Dai recalled the pungent smell of disinfectant at the hospital and felt ufortable all over.


    "I''m going to take a shower first, then make some noodles for youter," she said.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her affectionately and stroked her hair. He kissed her forehead and said gently, "Go ahead."


    Rong Dai nodded and went to the bathroom to bathe.


    Huo Shao Ting carried tworge bags of groceries into the kitchen and carefully put everything away.


    When he opened the refrigerator and saw the frozen dumplings and tangyuan, his eyebrows immediately furrowed.


    These frozen dumplings and tangyuan were of course not bought by Rong Dai, but by Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu was a bona fide rich youngdy. At home, apart from getting water to drink in the kitchen, and asionally making cakes when she was in a good mood, she never touched anything else in the kitchen.


    Of course, she didn''t know how to cook.


    But in Shenjing, she had sworn to take good care of Rong Dai.


    What could she do if she didn''t know how to cook?


    It wasn''t right for them to only eat takeout and delivered meals all the time. So she had stocked up on a lot of ready meals at the supermarket for the two of them.


    Although Rong Dai was picky with food, after all, she was used to luxurious food and clothing in her previous life.


    Even during the ten years she spent in the Cold Pce, she earned money with her embroidery skills, and never deprived herself when it came to food.


    In addition, her own cooking skills were very good, so the food that entered her mouth was particrly picky.


    Of course these ready meals did not suit her pte.


    But she was busy with the intense filming schedule, and did not have much time to rest, let alone time to cook for herself.


    Moreover, this was Mei Shu''s thoughtful gesture, so she just made do with it.


    Huo Shao Ting cleaned out all these frozen foods which he considered junk from the fridge, and put all the fresh ingredients he had bought inside.


    Then he rolled up his sleeves, tied on an apron, and personally cooked dinner for Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai took a warm shower and felt much more rxed all over.


    After changing into loungewear, she went to the kitchen.


    She happened to see Huo Shao Ting, who had taken off his suit jacket, standing there in just a white shirt with sleeves rolled up, wearing an apron.


    He looked every bit the perfect househusband cooking at home.


    He was always stern-faced, and even when cooking, his expression was still unusually cold.


    But somehow, this very sight of him was even more attractive.


    There was an old saying, a woman should be able to handle the inner chambers as well as the great hall.


    This was used to judge whether a woman was virtuous and capable.


    But how many people used this criterion to assess a good man''s qualities?


    Who would have thought that the prestigious Huo Group''s CEO could also cook at home?


    She leaned against the door frame, unable to help staring at him in a daze.


    "Like what you see?"


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly looked up and met her gaze.


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly turned red, and her cheeks flushed slightly.


    She smiled lightly and nodded, her tone a little teasing, "It looks good. Who would have thought the prestigious Huo Group CEO could also wield a kitchen knife?"


    Hearing her words, Huo Shao Ting raised his eyebrows, "Your husband can do a lot more, and only for you alone."


    The deeper meaning of his words was very obvious.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Her ears kept burning, and she shot him an embarrassed, annoyed nce.


    This guy''s words were increasingly...hard for her to parry.


    He would say romantic things and flirt with her at the slightest opportunity. It was difficult for her to connect him to that cold and aloof man from before.


    "Can''t be bothered with you," she huffed.


    "Go rest on the sofa. The kitchen is full of oil fumes," Huo Shao Ting stopped her and gently advised her.


    Rong Dai shook her head, looking at him earnestly, "Shao Ting, I know youck nothing. There is little I can do for you. But I remember every bit of your kindness in my heart. I''m grateful to have met you."


    "You''ve done so much for me. I also want to do my best for you in some ways."


    Her voice was calm, but contained deep emotions.


    Huo Shao Ting was no ordinary man. He understood what she meant.


    He turned around to face her, cupping her cheek with one hand.


    They looked into each other''s eyes, clearly seeing the feelings contained within.


    His voice was gentle and mellow, "I know. But you''re still unwell today. We have plenty of time in the future."


    "Be good and go rest on the sofa. I''ll be done soon," he coaxed her like a child, kissing her forehead.


    He understood clearly that for her, expressing herself this strongly already took tremendous courage.


    How could he not sense her sincerity?


    Rong Dai hugged him tightly without a word.


    The more intimate moments they shared, the softer her heart became.


    "Mm..."


    After a few seconds, she conceded with a murmur. Only then did she let go of his waist and obediently go to the sofa in the living room to rest.


    Although she no longer felt the same as when she was on set, her body was still a little ufortable.


    Although she was just resting on the sofa, she wasn''t idle.


    She took her tablet and watched thetest fashion show of the season - Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s.


    In its fashion designs, Brocade Embroidery Workshoprgely preserved traditional Chinese elements, but also made huge adjustments to incorporate international fashion trends.


    Although very innovative, these clothes were extremely impractical for ordinary people.


    Most of Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s clothes were only suitable for high-end asions, and were very expensive.


    As Rong Dai watched, she took notes of her own ideas and concepts in a small notebook.


    The clothes she wanted to make should not only have high-end custom options, but also be affordable to the general public.


    In her previous life as the Empress, she was very clear on the philosophy of benevolent rule.


    The upper ss was only a small portion of people. The clothes they needed were not just expensive, but also took a long time to produce.


    Most importantly, these people paid great attention to wearing asion-appropriate attire.


    Even for simr asions, the same outfit would rarely appear twice.


    Because they represented the forefront of fashion trends.


    But Rong Dai did not wish for her works to only make a single appearance, before being relegated to the closet as collectibles.


    That would go against her aims.


    She was notcking money now. She just wanted a personal career of her own.


    And this career would allow her to put her learning to good use, to maximize the happiness she could bring to others - that was her philosophy.


    She noticed something - in her opinion, the current fashion world was somewhat deformed.


    All the models were identikit tall and skinny figures, obsessed with a bony aesthetic.


    But from her time living here, although many people were very thin, this warped, extreme pursuit of a bony figure had undermined most people''s health.


    Moreover, some people did not avoid being thin, they just couldn''t lose weight.


    Another thing was, ordinary people were mostly disadvantaged when it came to height.


    Yet most fashionable clothes were only suited to those tall, "kissed by God" figures that ordinary people could not pull off.


    This was her understanding of modern fashion. She knew it was difficult to change the world.


    She had never thought of changing the world. She would only adhere to her own principles.

 Chapter 172: Call Husband

    <h4>Chapter 172</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting was a brilliant cook, and dinner was ready in no time.


    "Mmm, smells so good!"


    Rong Dai put down her tablet, sniffed the air, and got up to head over to the dining table.


    Huo Shao Ting had prepared avish dinner.


    There was coconut chicken with bamboo shoots, steamed bass, stir-fried zhini, pumpkin oatmeal porridge, and a dish of fluffy egg fried rice.


    He had also specially stewed bird''s nest with abalone for her.


    Rong Dai knew from her little sister that he could cook, and had joined him in the kitchen a few times before, so she knew his cooking tasted great. But this was the first time he had personally cooked just for her.


    As she looked at Huo Shao Ting, she found it hard to believe that such an amazing man would belong to her.


    "Have some soup first. It''s not too rich, so you can drink more on a hot day like this."


    Huo Shao Ting pulled out a chair for her anddled out some soup, sounding gentle and caring.


    Rong Dai sat down. The aroma of the hot, sweet soup was enticing. "Thank you, Shao Ting," she said softly.


    Huo Shao Ting sat down across from her, gazing at her intently. "I''d be even happier if you called me ''husband''."


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly grew hot. She fell silent instead of answering him, and obediently sipped her soup.


    Throughout the meal, Rong Dai ate until she was stuffed, because Huo Shao Ting attentively kept piling food onto her te.


    She didn''t have the heart to waste his kindly intentions, so she slowly finished everything he gave her. By the time she drank up that bowl of bird''s nest soup, she felt like throwing up.


    The food was practically wedged in her throat.


    "Shao Ting..."


    "Call me ''husband''."


    Rong Dai had originally wanted to invite Huo Shao Ting to take a walk downstairs with her, to help digest the food. But as soon as she called his name, he interrupted her.


    Huo Shao Ting stood there, gazing at her solemnly.


    Rong Dai fell silent again...


    When she had first arrived, she had called him ''husband'' before.


    But after getting to know him these past days, he hade to hold an increasingly special ce in her heart.


    Calling him by this weighted term felt hard to say out loud.


    Blushing, she looked at him as her cheeks grew hotter and hotter.


    "Husband..."


    Hearing her call him ''husband'', Huo Shao Ting''s handsome face lit up with joy.


    "Let''s go for a walk."


    Huo Shao Ting stepped forward and gently cupped the back of her head, lightly kissing her forehead.


    Rong Dai felt half amused, half exasperated. It turns out calling him ''husband'' wasn''t so difficult after all. She really was making a big deal out of nothing.


    The husband and wife held hands as they leisurely strolled around the neighbourhood until Rong Dai''s fullness had subsided before returning upstairs to wash up and rest.


    She knew Huo Shao Ting had a habit of reading before bed every night, usually Chinese texts, but tonight he was reading a foreign script.


    Rong Dai thought about the fashion show she had watched earlier. Jinxiu Fang was a high-end brand domestically, and worked with many top international brands too.


    She wanted to build a cherished career of her own.


    Embroidery had always been a Chinese cultural treasure. She loved the exquisite embroidered patterns, and the threads - creating what she desired one stitch at a time. The sense of aplishment was indescribable.


    If Jinxiu Fang could aplish this, why couldn''t she?


    Plus, she was currently on a break from school. Although design ced importance on aesthetics and fashion sense, cultural sses were equally important.


    She was studious by nature. When it came to learning, she had tremendous drive.


    It wasn''t for praise or to gain others'' attention.


    Rather, she found the process of learning tremendously enjoyable in itself, because it helped her be more excellent.


    "Dear...husband."


    As she leaned over to speak, Huo Shao Ting immediately looked over. She hastily corrected herself.


    Huo Shao Ting freed up one hand to cradle her head. "What''s on your mind?" he asked gently.


    Rong Dai looked at the foreign script in his book - it was gibberish to her.


    "I want to learn thisnguage. When my break ends, I''ll return to school. I know my skills here are already quite aplished, but there''s still so much I want to study."


    "I love embroidery. In the future, I want to build my own brand and head towards the international market. As your wife, I don''t want to seem inferior, constantly doubted by others."


    "I can disregard those doubts, but I don''t like hearing them."


    Hearing her say this, Huo Shao Ting felt happy, yet also very distressed.


    Her desire to improve was a good thing.


    Although she no longer needed to prove herself to anyone, he knew first-hand, from standing at the pinnacle, how greatly supetive excellence could benefit oneself.


    Fairness was controlled by the mighty. Only the weak constantly mored for fairness.


    Butpetition had always been ruthless - whether overt or hidden.


    The eternal, unchanging principle was that might made right.


    Regardless of era, only when one was strong enough did one have the power of choice.


    The weak only had the right to passive choice.


    This was thew of survival.


    "Alright, as long as you''re willing, don''t force yourself."


    Huo Shao Ting turned and kissed the tip of her nose, his voice gentle and doting.


    Rong Dai nodded, gaze bright as she looked at him.


    How fortunate she was to have met him.


    She wanted to learn these novel things - to hone herself into an even more outstanding woman, and to prepare for the future.


    This man was so exceptional. As his wife, if she didn''t even grasp these basics,


    others would doubt her, even if she could disregard it.


    But some would inevitably doubt his discernment and capabilities because of her shorings - something she was unwilling to see.


    What she wanted was to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with him, always.


    Not to simply gain convenience basking in his radiance at all times.


    The lessons of her past life were too deeply etched. She profoundly understood -


    a woman''s fate rested in her own hands.


    Excellence and resilience were indispensable.


    To maintain a sober and astute mind, she had to constantly hone her intellect.


    Like a sharp sword, only with frequent honing could it be ever more keen.


    Left sheathed, it would only grow dull, eventually abandoned.


    "Thank you, husband."


    She took the initiative to cling to his shoulders, her voice soft.


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing suddenly grew ragged. Setting his book down, he clutched her waist tightly. "Don''t tempt me, or I won''t be able to restrain myself," he said thickly.


    Rong Dai''s face flushed crimson. A hint of slyness flitted through her beautiful eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting''s tolerance, understanding, and thoughtfulness made her bolder and bolder, and more receptive in certain matters.


    Her slender fingers slid across his chest as she purred temptingly, "Husband..."


    Her husky, seductive "husband" set Huo Shao Ting''s blood ame. Heat rushed from his feet to his head, and his breathing grew heavy. He flipped her over and pinned her down!


    Her subtle changes easily aroused his passion. Rong Dai hadn''t expected her actions to stimte him so greatly. Engulfed by the storm, she regretted rashly "provoking" him...

 Chapter 173: Please take more care of My Wife.

    <h4>Chapter 173</h4>


    The next day, Rong Dai woke upte as expected. She usually woke up around 6am, but today she slept until 8am.


    When she opened her eyes, she had azy look on her face.


    She nced at the time, propped herself up in bed, but her legs felt like they had been whipped - sore and swollen.


    Thinking about the "trouble" she got herself intost night, she wanted to punch the bed in anger!


    But thinking about the two scenes she had to film that afternoon, she persisted and got up to go to the bathroom and wash up.


    When she came out, she smelled the rich aroma of oatmeal. Huo Shao Ting had made breakfast for them.


    Seeing here over, he untied the apron around his waist, went up to pull out a chair for her, and gently massaged her slender waist with his big hand.


    Rong Dai red at him and sat down to eat breakfast.


    "Are you going back today?"


    Although she had to resentfully admit his prowess in certain areas, she was increasingly addicted to the time they spent together.


    Thinking that he had to go back to Shengjing, while she still had to stay here and film, she couldn''t return to Shengjing for at least half a year.


    She felt a little frustrated.


    Huo Shao Ting blew on the bird''s nest and rock sugar soup to cool it down, then pushed it in front of her, "Thepany still has meetings for me to go back for."


    There were many things that needed to be dealt with at thepany. Although the Huo Group was already very powerful, Huo Second Master and his family had been kicked out this time, but their ambitions had never died.


    He couldn''t ck off at all beforepletely crushing their ambitions.


    Although he really wanted to stay with her, for the sake of their stable future life, he had to let her go.


    Rong Dai nodded. She knew the importance of thepany.


    In her previous life, the price she paid for her foolishness and indulgence was the downfall of the Rong family. This time, both the Wen family and Huo Second Master''s side were kicked out.


    To a certain extent, the Huo Group was even more powerful now.


    And because of this,panies that were apprehensive of the Huo Group would only increase.


    The higher you stand, the more cautious you have to be.


    Because the enemy is always chasing your footsteps. Once you ck off, the consequence is either being overtaken or annihted.


    She couldn''t let her momentary happiness ruin everything he had painstakingly built.


    Seeing her restraint and sadness, Huo Shao Ting reached out and stroked her hair beside her ear, his voice gentle, "We can go see a movie in the morning, and I��ll apany you to the set in the afternoon. I��lle to apany you whenever I have time."


    Rong Dai felt warmth in her heart, and also a bit guilty.


    He had always been giving, while she had always been taking. She really hadn''t done much for him at all.


    After breakfast, although it was mid-September, there was a bit of autumn chill. Rong Dai put on a light coat and the couple went to the movies.


    There weren''t many people in the theater, so Rong Daifortably used Huo Shao Ting as a pillow.


    After watching the movie, the couple went to a nearby amusement park.


    There were more people in the amusement park. Rong Dai looked at those thrilling rides and shook her head, refusing.


    In the end, the couple chose the shooting game.


    Although it was just an amusement park game, Huo Shao Ting''s score was dazzling. He won her a huge unicorn plushie.


    Rong Dai was good at archery, but this was her first time trying shooting games, so her score was pitiful.


    The handsome couple, plus some people recognized them, attracted a lot of business for the vendor.


    To show his gratitude, the vendor gave Rong Dai a pink tumbler with a printed unicorn.


    Rong Dai handed it to him, "Do you want it?"


    She felt her prize was a bit shabby.


    "Yes." Huo Shao Ting nodded without hesitation, not disdaining the girlish color at all. "As long as it''s given by my wife, I want it."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. Seeing him hugging the huge plushie, she remembered her phone''s camera and quickly stopped him, "Wait, stand still first."


    She then took out her phone to take pictures of him, before going over to lean her head on his shoulder and took several selfies of them together.


    Seeing how happy she was taking photos, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes deepened.


    Wedding photos.


    It had always been a thorn in his heart.


    "Dear, look."


    Rong Dai didn''t notice his expression and handed the photos she took to him.


    "Very beautiful."


    Huo Shao Ting praised generously, without hesitation. If Assistant Zhang were here, he would surely be shocked that his boss was actuallyplimenting someone.


    Because the boss never praised anyone.


    After leaving the amusement park, the couple went to a Western restaurant for a light meal.


    Rong Dai firmly rejected eating meat this time, opting for a vegetable sd instead.


    She certainly hadn��t forgotten that she was currently filming. With Huo Shao Ting��s speed of feeding her, she would gain weight very quickly.


    The costumes provided by the crew had been custom fitted in advance. If she gained weight, she wouldn��t be able to fit into them.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t stop her either. Eating vegetables asionally was healthy for body and mind.


    After lunch, Huo Shao Ting drove her to the set. Passing by a flower shop, he bought her a huge bouquet of red roses.


    Rong Dai had originally wanted to leave the roses in the car, but was afraid they would wilt from the heat, so she had no choice but to carry them to the set.


    "Wow! Boss Huo is here?!"


    When the couple appeared on set, the crew members were excited.


    After all, although Huo Shao Ting was not from the industry, he was more dazzling than any top actor.


    Meeting him in person was naturally very exciting.


    Huo Shao Ting was also very gentle, without the coldness and sternness he had at work.


    "Wait here, I''m going to get dressed and put on makeup."


    Rong Dai didn''t expect him to be so popr. She felt proud too and left him with this instruction after putting down the roses.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded obediently like a well-behaved kindergartener and sat quietly on the stool.


    "Boss Huo, can we take photos with you? You''re so handsome! And Mrs. Huo is so beautiful too! Her acting is amazing!"


    It was currently break time on set and the afternoon scenes hadn��t started yet. Some fans who came to visit their idols were extremely excited seeing Huo Shao Ting sitting properly on the stool. Blushing, they bubbled over as they asked.


    Usually Huo Shao Ting would definitely refuse. But hearing them praise his wife, he deliberately revealed a smile and nodded gently, "You can, but you also have to take good care of my wife. She''s a neer. If there are any issues you cane to me, don''t make things difficult for her."


    "No no! Mrs. Huo is really really great!"


    "We can hardly keep up with how much we like her! How could we make things difficult for her?"


    "We really like Mrs. Huo too!"


    More than ten visiting fans were so excited they could scream. They shook their heads vigorously, absolutely firm in their replies.


    "Then thank you for your support. I''ll treat you all to coffeeter."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled and nodded, gentlemanly and gentle.


    If not for him being an outsider to the industry, these fans would probably switch allegiances immediately.


    The enthusiasm and thoughtfulness of the fans put Huo Shao Ting in a very good mood. In order to win people''s hearts for his wife and make her feel morefortable in the crew,


    Huo Shao Ting generously treated the entire crew to coffee and snacks from Star Dad.

 Chapter 174: I鈥檓 the most popular in your heart.

    <h4>Chapter 174</h4>


    "Thankfully this guy isn''t part of this circle, otherwise he would be public enemy number one," Lu Ye gleefully sipped his coffee while watching Huo Shao Ting get surrounded by those fans, yet he wasn''t angry at all. His heart was extremely shocked and he couldn''t help but sigh in admiration.


    Of course, the fans who were able to visit the set had been screened by them first. Without their permission, on-set urrences were strictly prohibited from being leaked out, otherwise there would bewsuits to eat.


    Huo Shao Jie took a sip of coffee and gave him a sidelong nce, "This is all because of sister-inw. He''s currying favor with sister-inw."


    After all, they were blood brothers. Huo Shao Jie could discern what was going on with a single nce.


    After Rong Dai finished styling her make-up and wore her costume, when she came out and saw her husband surrounded by a group of fans, seeing each of them holding a cup of coffee and snacks branded with "Super Dad", she couldn''t help but ask the staff beside her.


    Upon learning the truth, Rong Dai was a bit helpless. Although she knew with Huo Shao Ting''s status it waspletely unnecessary for him to do these things, he still did them for her sake.


    "Mrs. Huo is here."


    When some of the fans saw Rong Daie over, they said this then tactfully retreated to one side.


    Rong Dai looked at Huo Shao Ting with smiling eyes. She didn''t say anything and just handed him a bottle of water before going onto the set.


    "The fact that Mr. Huo is willing to change, I''m increasingly appreciating you more and more, Rong Dai."


    Qiao Wanzhou had also finished styling her make-up ande over. When she saw Rong Dai, the corners of her eyes nced at Huo Shao Ting. Her gaze was full of approval as she looked at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai faintly smiled without saying anything.


    Perhaps it was because Huo Shao Ting was present, but her spirit was even more focused than before.


    These two scenes didn''t have heavy portions, but Rong Dai''s performance was very abundant. All of her shots were done in one take.


    Even when retakes were required due to issues with other actors, she didn''t get annoyed and cooperated very well to redo it.


    After finishing these two scenes, Rong Dai felt extremely rxed.


    Huo Shao Ting waited for her to remove her make-up ande out, then handed her a thermal sk, "Drink some to moisten your throat first."


    Rong Dai nodded. What she drank was snow pear and bird''s nest, very moisturizing for the throat.


    The married couple left the set together. Those fans who hade to visit were just short of seeing the two off.


    "With Mr. Huo''s poprity being so high, if you enter the entertainment industry, I''m afraid some people will start to worry."


    Sitting in the passenger seat, Rong Dai turned her head to look at him driving and jokingly said this.


    "As long as I''m the most popr in your heart, I don''t need others''."


    Huo Shao Ting reached out and held her hand, his voice gentle as he spoke another string of sweet nothings.


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. She tactfully stopped teasing him, otherwise just listening to his sweet words, she wouldn''t even need to eat meals.


    The married couple went to have dinner, then Huo Shao Ting dropped her off at the apartment building.


    "I''ll go back first."


    Downstairs, Huo Shao Ting got out of the car and hugged her, leaning down to kiss her lips lightly and said this in a gentle voice.


    Rong Dai nodded, instructing him, "Pay attention to safety. Message me when you get home, I''ll be waiting for you."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. The married couple didn''t continue being lovey-dovey.


    Rong Dai stood downstairs watching as his car drove farther away, her heart reluctant to part.


    "Sister-inw, his shadow is already gone yet you''re still watching?"


    The little sister-inw didn''t know when she had popped up, looking at her with yful eyes.


    Rong Dai was instantly embarrassed and hastily retracted her gaze, "Mei Shu, when did you get here?"


    "How could I note? Right after my big brother left, the order came."


    Huo Mei Shu shrugged and showed her the message on her phone.


    Rong Dai was helpless, "Your big brother, he..."


    "Sister-inw, you don''t need to say anything! I understand everything! I''ve eaten enough of the dog food!"


    Huo Mei Shu hurriedly crossed her hands, refusing to listen to her sister-inw exin for her big brother.


    This married couple''s dog food, if not given, that''s fine. But once given, it''s in tons. Her weak heart couldn''t bear it.


    Rong Dai could only helplessly not continue. The sisters-inw then went upstairs together.


    Huo Mei Shu took some food from the fridge and tactfully exited her room.


    After washing up, Rong Dai leaned against the bed continuing to watch videos on her tablet while taking notes.


    She didn''t turn off the lights to rest until Huo Shao Ting called her.


    Although she had fainted on set before, Rong Dai controlled herter scenes very well.


    As long as she had scenes, thepletion rate was always very fast.


    Plus Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou were actors with solid skills. Therefore, the progress was very quick.


    These past few days, although Rong Dai was tired, her earnestness and hard work, along with having more day scenes, meant that by evening she had basically finished.


    And after Huo Shao Ting returned to Shengjing, the nutritionist he had hired for her had long since arrived, so she didn''t need to personally cook anymore.


    The professor hired to teach her foreignnguages had also arrived.


    Rong Dai scheduled her time very clearly. Other than the time set aside for studying the script and going on set, she had nned out the rest of her time as well.


    She was learning foreignnguages while continuing to research design. She worked hard on both fronts without cking. This forced Huo Mei Shu to also study along with her.


    In the blink of an eye, it was Mid-Autumn Festival. But Rong Dai also had several night scenes, so she, Huo Mei Shu, and uncle Huo Shao Jie were unable to return to Shengjing.


    Mother-inw and Huo Shao Ting took a private jet to visit the set. After she finished filming her night scenes, the family of five ate a reunion dinner at a restaurant. They admired the moon over tea together and also video called with granny.


    Granny was having a great time traveling abroad and ended the video call with the family after half an hour.


    After Mid-Autumn, Rong Dai became increasingly busy.


    Aside from the night scenes, there were also action scenes and location shoots.


    Although Huo Shao Ting''s visits decreased, he didn''t forget to curry favor with his wife. From time to time he would treat the crew to meals and drinks.


    Therefore, Rong Dai was veryfortable in the crew. Her rtionship with Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing also grew closer.


    In the blink of an eye, it was the end of the year and Western Christmas arrived.


    The film and television city had a light snowfall.


    Since this drama had many winter scenes, they took advantage of this light snow. Rong Dai and the cast were exceptionally busy, working from early morning through the night.


    "Mrs. Huo, Director Lu asked me to bring this to you. You have a scer where you fall into the water. You may need to get in the water yourself."


    Rong Dai was getting her make-up touched up. Although it was just a light snowfall, the bitter cold in this coastal city was freezing.


    The staff member brought her ginger soup to warm up her body. This was a good item for that.


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai expressed her thanks.


    "You''re wee." The staff member was very polite.


    "Are you new?"


    Rong Dai had a good memory. By this time, she basically knew everyone in the crew. Seeing this unfamiliar staff member, she asked.


    The staff member smiled and nodded. Her looks were very ordinary.


    "Yes, I''m Wang Xin."


    Rong Dai faintly smiled with a nod, thanking her again without asking anything further.


    After Wang Xin turned around to leave, when she lowered her eyes halfway, they were filled with deep hatred and resentment!


    Rong Dai, I, Yang Wanwan, will definitely take back what I''ve lost!

 Chapter 175: Out of Consciousness

    <h4>Chapter 175</h4>


    After Rong Dai finished putting on her makeup, Huo Mei Shu, wrapped in a thick down jacket, brought over a thermos for her.


    "Sister-inw, it''s so cold today. Drink some ginger tea first to avoid catching a cold."


    "The crew just brought some over, I''ve had some. It''s cold out, you should drink some too."


    Rong Dai smiled and shook her head.


    "Okay then." Huo Mei Shu really couldn''t stand this freezing weather either. She unscrewed the lid and drank a couple sips of the ginger tea, while unable to helpining about the freezing weather.


    "Sister-inw, it''s so cold today, why don''t we...switch ces? If you get frostbite, my brother would definitely be worried to death."


    Huo Mei Shu breathed into her hands while constantly stamping her feet in little steps, trying to warm herself up a bit.


    Rong Dai took a look at Qiao Wanzhou across from her.


    She shook her head, "No, I have to personally be on set."


    This was her next project. No matter what the final result would be, or whether theizens would buy it,


    she had to ensure the work waspleted by her, even if there would be some regrets. She had to be clear of conscience.


    Now there was a group of people online just waiting to watch her make a fool of herself. How could she let them seed?


    Even if she hadpleted 99% of this drama, and the remaining 1% wasn''t done by her, those people still wouldn''t let her off.


    They would pick at straws and nitpick. This was what the group online was best at.


    This group always held others to the standards of saints, while measuring themselves against the standards of viins.


    She was not afraid of rumors, but she cherished her reputation. She also didn''t want to cause trouble for Huo Shaoting and the Huo Corporation because of herself.


    Hearing her say this, Huo Meishu could only sigh helplessly, and then went to prepare a series of things to warm up her body for her.


    She had been following her sister-inw for so long, she understood her temper very well.


    For anything that sister-inw decided, unless her big brother personally intervened, no one else could hope to change it.


    When Rong Dai arrived on set, this scene was of her and Qiao Wanzhou falling into the water, struggling and fighting each other in a pond.


    Because it was winter, with the thick costumes, the pond was covered by a thinyer of ice. It was extremely chilling.


    And this scene of falling into the water was very important. If the performance was affected by the cold, they might have to redo the scene multiple times.


    Although the crew had prepared heating machines and coal pans, with such cold weather, once in the water, their teeth would surely be chattering, and they probably wouldn''t even be able to speak their lines clearly.


    "Rong Dai, let''s go over the lines first, and get it done in one take if we can."


    Qiao Wanzhou came over holding a hot water bottle.


    The acting skills of both leads were very good. With their diligence, it brought along the other supporting roles as well. The atmosphere on set was great, and the progress was much faster than expected.


    This was mostly thanks to Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou''s strict requirements of themselves. They were both people who demanded excellence of themselves.


    On such a cold day, both of course hoped that all the shots could pass in one take.


    Rong Dai nodded, took the hot water bottle from the staff, and went with Qiao Wanzhou to go over lines.


    This scene was a bit difficult. Because of the weather, the staff on shore didn''t dare be negligent.


    Although the pond wasn''t deep, safety precautions still had to be in ce.


    Otherwise if the leads got sick, the subsequent progress would get dyed.


    "Actors in ces!"


    After half an hour, the director called through his megaphone.


    After irrelevant staff cleared the area, Qiao Wanzhou and Rong Dai took off their military overcoats and swiftly got in position, entering character.


    Although they were wearing ancient cold-weather gear, suddenly taking off the military coats and the piercing cold wind still made Rong Dai feel like her cheeks were being sliced by knives. It really hurt.


    Their shots onnd were done in one take. Hearing the director''s cue, the two struggled and fell into the pond together.


    The moment they hit the water,rge amounts of icy water rushed in through the cors, and the piercing cold assaulted them.


    Both Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou instantly shuddered from the cold, their lips turning purple.


    But the professionalism of the two exceeded what many people on set imagined. For the half hour water scene, the two stayed in the icy pond water for a full half hour.


    But they bothpleted the required actions and lines excellently.


    "Cut!"


    As the director called through his walkie talkie, the two looked at each other, finally heaving a big sigh of relief, and supported each other to get out of the pond.


    The staff and agents on shore, as well as actors from the set, hurriedly brought towels and all kinds of warming items.


    Rong Dai''s teeth ttered from the cold, her whole head numb.


    "Rong, Rong Dai...quick, quick..."


    Qiao Wanzhou called to her, also stuttering from the cold.


    Rong Dai nodded, both their breathsing out in long white puffs.


    The pond wasn''t deep, but because lotuses had been nted in the summer, it was mostly covered in silt.


    Rong Dai''s left foot got stuck when she didn''t step firmly. Her body lost bnce and she fell, dragging Qiao Wanzhou down with her.


    The cold assaulted her. Rong Dai felt nothing but cold throughout her body, even her consciousness growing blurred.


    She could only see the murky water submerging her. She could hear the "glug glug" sounds of the water, and see the rescue crew on shore jumping in.


    She didn''t even have the strength to speak, only feeling the piercing icy water enveloping her. The next second, she lost consciousness.


    "Sister-inw!"


    Seeing Rong Dai disappear under the surface, Huo Meishu on shore screamed in fright.


    The rescue crew who had jumped in only hauled up Qiao Wanzhou, getting her to shore first.


    The pond had been checked beforehand. Although the depth was only 1-1.3 meters, the surface was very murky because of the two''s earlier struggling in the water.


    Even with spotlights, it was very difficult to see clearly.


    "She was just there a moment ago, hurry, look quickly!"


    After being pulled ashore, Qiao Wanzhou shuddered all over, unable to stop shaking even wrapped in an overcoat, her words stuttering.


    The two rescue crew dove back in to search. The staff and actors on shore were also badly frightened.


    If something happened to Rong Dai, whether this drama could make it to air was a question!


    Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye were scared out of their wits in the cold weather, and jumped into the pond without a second thought to search for Rong Dai.


    "Here!"


    Seeing this, Zhou Jing on shore was also frightened by the scene. At this rate she could drown!


    He took off his coat, shoved it at his manager, and jumped in as well to search.


    Seeing this, the other male actors on shore instantly got ideas. Although the water was icy cold,pared to gaining the support of the influential Huo Corporation, this bit of cold water was nothing.


    Thus, some of the male actors on shore also jumped in, searching the pond.

 Chapter 176: Into the Rescue Room

    <h4>Chapter 176</h4>


    Two minutes had passed, and still no one could be found.


    Now even the crew filming next door was startled, and they all rushed over to look for the person.


    "Sister-inw, don''t scare me..."


    Huo Mei Shu was scared half to death. Her whole body went limp and she nearly copsed. Fortunately, the crew members next to her held her up.


    Hidden in the dark corner and looking at the dozen or so people searching the pond, Wang Xin''s eyes revealed a sinister sneer of vengeance.


    Rong Dai, this is the price you pay for framing me!


    Only with your death will I feel gratified!


    She gave a coldugh, took out her phone to check the time. Several minutes had passed, that cheap woman must be dead without a doubt!


    She turned off the phone screen, pocketed it, and turned to leave.


    "Found her, found her!"


    Lu Ye shouted loudly. Zhou Jing was covered in mud, carrying the now unconscious Rong Dai as he walked towards the shore.


    Seeing Zhou Jing had found the person, those men who had jumped into the water felt a little disappointed.


    But they wouldn''t do anything at this moment, since so many people at the set had witnessed it, the act already had its intended effect.


    "Hurry and give her first aid!"


    The medics rushed over with their kits. Both Lu Ye and Huo Shao Jie were soaked but paid no mind, just staring intently at the unconscious Rong Dai and shouting.


    Among the medics were women who started giving Rong Dai CPR while the doctors examined her.


    "Sister-inw, wake up!"


    Huo Mei Shu cried in fright, watching Rong Dai''s muddy body lying limply on the ground.


    Her skin was very fair to begin with, and the icy water made her even more deathly pale, as if she was dead.


    Wang Xin halted her steps, also staring fixedly at Rong Dai.


    The dosage she had used was enough to knock out a cow, that cheap woman definitely wouldn''t wake up.


    "Wake up quickly!"


    After this incident, Qiao Wanzhou was in no mood to change either, just huddling in his military coat, hoping desperately for Rong Dai to regain consciousness soon.


    The female medic performed CPR for a full two minutes but Rong Dai showed no reaction at all.


    The entire set fell dead silent, with only the sound of breathing audible.


    "rgh..."


    Rong Dai suddenly spat out a mouthful of murky water.


    "There''s a reaction, she reacted! Quick, get the stretcher! Take her to the hospital!"


    The medics broke out in cold sweat, seeing signs of Rong Dai regaining consciousness, they hurriedly instructed the other medics.


    Rong Dai was immediately sent to the hospital, with Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie apanying her. Lu Ye stayed behind to handle matters at the set.


    Once at the hospital, Rong Dai was rushed into the ER.


    "How could this happen? Sister-inw had been learning to swim recently, how could she have drowned?"


    Huo Mei Shu paced back and forth outside the emergency room, her face deathly pale as she fretted aloud.


    Huo Shao Jie''s expression was gloomy. The lighting just now had illuminated his sister-inw fully, even if she had stumbled on mud, she shouldn''t have drowned.


    She had even grabbed Qiao Wanzhou, who he definitely trusted, yet the person went missing in those few short minutes.


    This was far too bizarre.


    "Call our eldest brother to report this incident. I''ll go get cleaned up first, something is fishy about this."


    He instructed grimly.


    Huo Mei Shu''s face turned ashen. She had never seen her second brother act so seriously before. She hurriedly nodded and fumbled for her phone to call Huo Shao Ting.


    It was early morning now, and Huo Shao Ting had just finished handlingpany matters. Seeing Huo Mei Shu''s call, he felt a sense of foreboding.


    "Big brother, it''s bad, sister-inw, she, she..."


    "Speak clearly."


    Hearing Huo Mei Shu''s panicked voice, Huo Shao Ting''s heart sank like a stone.


    Huo Mei Shu had been holding back her sobs earlier, but hearing Huo Shao Ting''s voice caused her to lose control. She cried sorrowfully as she haltingly recounted what happened.


    A sh of viciousness passed through Huo Shao Ting''s eyes, his voice cold and sinister. "I''ll be right over! You must guard your sister-inw well for me!"


    His heart thumped violently, fingers white from clenching his phone tightly. His body fluctuated between hot and cold.


    Huo Mei Shu sobbed an acknowledgement, gripping her phone as she stared fixedly at the emergency room with its red light still on. The piercing cold went unfelt.


    After hanging up, Huo Shao Ting immediately called his assistant Zhang.


    "President, it''s early morning now, no flights to the filming city. The earliest is six a.m., still four hours away."


    Zhang mumbled sleepily as he mechanically checked flight info on his tablet, giving a detailed report.


    The coldness in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes intensified. Four hours, he didn''t want to wait a single minute!


    "Arrange a private helicopter, I''ll pilot it myself."


    Hearing his chilling voice, Zhang became fully alert.


    The president''s current state was the same as when Madam had her incident with Zuo Ran previously.


    "I''ll arrange it right away!"


    This was definitely a major incident, or the president wouldn''t make such a request.


    Zhang was very efficient. Huo Corporationcked no money and had its own air routes, needing only to notify the tarmac.


    "President, I''ll apany you."


    As his personal assistant and bodyguard, Zhang naturally wouldn''t let Huo Shao Ting pilot alone.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was extremely cold. He pressed his lips tightly and boarded the helicopter, with Zhang hurrying after him into the co-pilot seat. They took off from the top floor of Huo Corporation.


    Meanwhile at the hospital, Rong Dai''s emergency treatment was done and she had been wheeled out from the ER.


    "Sister-inw, sister-inw!"


    Seeing Rong Daie out, Huo Mei Shu hurriedly wiped the tears from her face and rushed to the gurney, the uneasy feeling in her heart settling down as she saw her sister-inw.


    "The patient is now out of danger, the water has been pumped out and her stomach washed. She''ll likely regain consciousness in six to ten hours. It''d be best to prepare some congee for when the patient wakes up."


    The doctor instructed.


    "Thank you, doctor!"


    Huo Mei Shu wept with joy as she apanied the doctor to wheel Rong Dai into the ward.


    "Does the patient have insomnia? Why would she take such a huge dose of diazepam?"


    After getting Rong Dai settled, the doctor asked Huo Mei Shu while getting his assistant to prepare the medical history.


    "Diazepam?" Huo Mei Shu was puzzled. Recalling the doctor''s mention of stomach pumping, she grew even more confused.


    "It''smonly known as sleeping pills. Taking such arge dose would render the patient unconscious and paralyzed, slipping into aa. It could potentially be lethal in sleep."


    The doctor exined to her.


    Huo Mei Shu was shocked beyond belief. She had never heard of her sister-inw taking sleeping pills!


    "Second brother, I''ve never heard of sister-inw taking sleeping pills before."


    Just then, Huo Shao Jie and Lu Ye personally rushed over and caught the doctor''s exnation. Both their eyes turned grave.


    "Could it be someone wanting to harm sister-inw?!"


    Huo Mei Shu eximed in fright, recalling Huo Shao Jie''s earlier words.


    Even if sister-inw had insomnia and was filming at night, she wouldn''t take pills at that time!

 Chapter 177: Honey, wake up

    <h4>Chapter 177</h4>


    Huo ShaoJie and Lu Ye didn''t say anything, but both had already had thoughts.


    The crew had tested that pond and confirmed it was safe before allowing the actors to go in the water.


    But with just that stumble, it almost drowned Rong Dai to death!


    Rong Dai didn''t even struggle, which clearly showed huge ws.


    Huo Mei Shu''s face was ghastly pale. She really couldn''t figure out who would harm her sister-inw.


    Zuo Ran had already been executed and turned to ashes.


    And Wen Shi Lan was still sitting in prison.


    The Wen family had already fallen and moved abroad as a whole family.


    Who else would harm sister-inw?


    "Judging from the degree of the patient''sa, the dose of diazepam taken was veryrge. There were no remnants of diazepam tablets in her gastric juice, so it should have been crushed before taking it. You can think about whether the patient took anything before falling into aa," the doctor said.


    "The efficacy of diazepam tablets varies ording to the patient''s physical condition, usually taking effect in half an hour to one hour. You can check what the patient ate in the hour before falling into aa," the doctor added.


    Hearing Huo Mei Shu''s words, the doctor also knew this was no simple matter.


    Although he was a doctor, Rong Dai was now even more popr than those first-line actresses, so of course he could recognize her and was very dedicated to providing them with a frame of reference.


    "Thank you, doctor," Huo ShaoJie said coldly.


    After the doctor said "You''re wee" he left the ward with his assistant.


    Rong Dai was on an IV drip in the ward. The three of them stood at the door of the ward. The hospital was quiet and creepyte at night.


    Huo Mei Shu''s mind was a mess as she recalled the doctor''s words, thinking of when she went to bring sister-inw ginger soup earlier. Sister-inw had said she drank it already.


    "Did you have the crew deliver ginger soup to sister-inw today?"


    She personally took care of all of sister-inw''s meals, because a specialized nutritionist cooked for her, so sister-inw didn''t have to eat boxed lunches with the crew.


    Usually the nutritionist would cook the meals and she would go pick them up.


    The nutritionist was hand-picked by big brother, so there was definitely no problem.


    Of all the days, the ginger soup sister-inw said she drank today was the only one that didn''t go through her hands.


    L�� Ye and Huo ShaoJie''s faces were extremely gloomy. As expected, someone really had deliberately framed the crew.


    And if anything really happened to Rong Dai, her co-star Qiao Wanzhou would definitely be unlucky.


    No matter how brilliant Qiao Wanzhou''s achievements were, if Rong Dai died, she would never be able to wash away that stain.


    The opponent really had vicious means!


    Huo ShaoJie and L�� Ye were very aware of the dirty tricks in this circle, but they didn''t expect anyone to be so dirty and vicious to this degree!


    "You two stay here and stand guard. I''ll go thoroughly investigate the crew," L�� Ye said in a low voice.


    If this matter wasn''t investigated clearly, it wasn''t just a question of whether Rong Dai could continue acting, but whether this drama could even make it onto the screen.


    They had witnessed the extent Huo ShaoTing doted on his wife.


    Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu siblings nodded. L�� Ye hurriedly left the hospital.


    Because this matter had gotten a bit out of hand, the other crews at the studio city also knew about it, so the news was definitely not able to be kept under wraps.


    As L�� Ye expected, this matter made it onto the hot search!


    No one knew who leaked the on-site videos and photos.


    Although there was no text, the videos were very clear.


    There was never any shortage of people online with wild imaginations, especially those keyboard warriors. They would embellish things based on whatever they saw, saying preposterous things online to gain that bit of pathetic "validation".


    Yet these kinds of online public opinion trends had huge influence.


    L�� Ye urgently got PR to handle it, then sent assistants to investigate.


    But since the culprit dared to do this, they must have arranged things meticulously, so how could they have left any clues?


    Wang Xin, also known as Yang Wanwan, disappeared from the crew when Rong Dai was sent to the hospital, which gave L�� Ye a direction for his investigation.


    L�� Ye got the police to help, but all of Wang Xin''s information was fake.


    Even if someone from the crew could describe her looks, even if there were photos of her, there was no way to find her.


    This person had vanished into thin air.


    Huo ShaoTing personally piloted a helicopter to the studio city andnded on the hospital''s helipad, then hurried to Rong Dai''s ward.


    Seeing Rong Dai lying pale-faced in a hospital gown on the hospital bed, if not for the beeping machines indicating her heartbeat on one side, she looked no different from dead.


    "What on earth happened?"


    Huo ShaoTing strode forward in one step, grabbing Huo ShaoJie by the cor and practically dragging him out of the ward.


    His eyes were fierce and angry, and his breathing was heavy.


    "B-Big brother, speak properly. Second brother didn''t know things would turn out this way either. There are many people in the crew. Even as the director, second brother can''t keep eyes on sister-inw at all times."


    Seeing eldest brother so furious, Huo Mei Shu was scared out of her wits! Her face went pale and she hurriedly stepped forward to stop him.


    In all these years, this was the first time she had seen eldest brother get so angry at second brother.


    "Things are still under investigation. Someone added an excessive amount of diazepam to sister-inw''s food, causing her to lose consciousness while filming," Huo ShaoJie said exceptionally calmly.


    Even taking a few punches from big brother wasn''t a big deal to him.


    Anyone''s heart would be filled with rage when the woman they loved was at death''s door.


    Huo ShaoTing released his cor. His face was still frighteningly cold.


    "Go rest early. Eldest brother staying here alone is enough."


    Seeing Huo ShaoTing enter the ward, Huo ShaoJie tidied his cor, his eyes also not looking good.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, knowing there was no use in her staying either. It would be better for her to go back and cook congee for sister-inw.


    Huo ShaoJie then went to the end of the corridor on the other side to call L�� Ye and get an update on the information he had investigated, before going to personally brief Huo ShaoTing.


    Huo ShaoTing''s face was gloomy as he told Assistant Zhang to go investigate directly.


    What others couldn''t investigate, didn''t mean Huo ShaoTing couldn''t investigate.


    Huo ShaoJie saw him sitting at Rong Dai''s bedside, tightly grasping one of her hands, not even ncing at him.


    He let out a soft sigh, then turned and left the ward.


    "Wife, don''t y jokes on me. Hurry and wake up," Huo ShaoTing said after everyone left the ward.


    His cold and gloomy expression finally became anxious and flustered.


    He held Rong Dai''s hand with his lips pressed against the back of her hand. His voice was mixed with panic and sobs.


    His heart was in turmoil and he was terrified of losing her.


    When he heard Huo Mei Shu tell him this news, he was so frightened that for a moment his heart felt like it had stopped beating.


    He knew Rong Dai was the warmth he could never quit in this life. She was the most important half of his life.


    Without her, his life would be iplete.


    If he lost her, he...would go crazy.

 Chapter 178: You鈥檙e Not Entitled

    <h4>Chapter 178</h4>


    p!


    The next morning at 9 am, Yang Wanwan, who had been hiding all night, finally crept back to the apartment she was renting at the film and TV city.


    As soon as she entered the door, she was greeted with a backhanded p from Yang Yue!


    Yang Yue hit her very hard and heavily!


    It knocked her down to the ground all at once, and half of her face immediately swelled up, with blood seeping from the corner of her mouth.


    Yang Yue''s face was extremely gloomy.


    He stared at her with an ice-cold and angry gaze, his voice piercingly cold: "Did you take my words as just a gust of wind beside your ears?!"


    Wanwan covered her face for a moment, crawled up from the ground, and stood in front of him with her head drooping: "I''m sorry."


    Huo Shao Ting was so angry he could have killed her!


    This matter had caused such a bigmotion that it would not be easy to deal with Rong Dai again in the future!


    This foolish woman!


    She deserved to be ruined by her own actions!


    If he had known earlier that she would be so disobedient and useless, he should have just let her be ravaged to death at the beginning!


    "Shuang."


    Yang Yue stared at her with an icy gaze, and solemnly called out a name.


    A very burly man with tattooed arms walked out from inside.


    "Send her away."


    "No! I''m not going anywhere!"


    Upon hearing Yang Yue''s order, Yang Wanwan was so frightened that she immediately knelt down! She clutched his pant legs tightly and pleaded:


    "I''ve suffered so much, endured so many hardships, it was all thanks to Rong Dai! If she doesn''t die, what meaning is there for me to live?"


    "You have no right to negotiate with me. I already said at the beginning, if you don''t listen to me, you bear the consequences yourself."


    Yang Yue looked down at her, his gaze extremely cold.


    "You disrupted my ns and ruined the situation I had carefully orchestrated. Do you think I would keep a disobedient dog around to undermine me?"


    "Ying Yue and Huo Shaojie won''t be able to find anything, but Huo Shaoting will. What you did has already threatened me, you have to leave."


    His voice waspletely devoid of emotion, cold as a b of steel.


    "I...I promise I won''t do it again! I was just unwilling! All of that should have been mine, but she took it all away!"


    "I just wanted to teach her a lesson, I really hate her so much!"


    When Yang Yue heard her words, he couldn''t help but sneer.


    "Teach her a lesson? Your stupidity will only get yourself killed again. Send her away!"


    This time, Yang Wanwan''s unteral actions angered him.


    Yang Wanwan''s actions could very likely lead Huo Shaoting to investigate him.


    He was very familiar with Huo Shaoting''s capabilities.


    "I''m stupid? I just wanted her to die! If I''m stupid, then Wen Shn isn''t much smarter either! Otherwise she wouldn''t be in jail right now!"


    With her hands grabbed by Shuang, Yang Wanwan shouted in great unwillingness.


    Of course she knew about Yang Yue''s affairs, she had looked into it specifically.


    p!


    She was pped again.


    Now both sides of her face were symmetrically swollen.


    Yang Yue stared at her sinisterly: "You have no right to mention her name in the same breath. Even if she fell into the mud, she would still be a thousand times, ten thousand times more noble than you! You know exactly how you rose to fame and how filthy you are."


    Yang Wanwan was frightened by his gaze, her face ghastly pale as she looked at him, unable to utter a word for a long time.


    Yang Yue looked at her with an icy, contemptuous gaze: "I really regret saving a foolish woman like you back then, not a shred of brains."


    "Those investors and bosses who promoted you, like Mr. Wang, do you know how miserable they are now?"


    "The three blockbuster films they invested in were indefinitely postponed from release, every business under their names suffered huge losses."


    With each word he spoke, Wanwan''s eyes grew more despairing.


    "Who do you think you are? Even something as basic as slipping sleeping pills could ur to you? Hmm?"


    "It would have been fine if Rong Dai had died."


    "But now not only is she not dead, this matter has also made the news. For a woman like Rong Dai, Huo Shaoting will do anything, do you think that''s how Mr. Wang came to ruin? It''s because he promoted you."


    "If I hand you over to Mr. Wang now, do you think you would survive?"


    This sentencepletely crushed thest shreds of pride and hope in Wanwan''s heart.


    "Please...don''t hand me over, I''ll listen to whatever you say from now on."


    Yang Wanwan pleaded in despair.


    "Boss, look."


    Shuang handed his phone to Yang Yue, which showed that a nationwide warrant had been issued for the fugitive known as Wang Xin, Yang Wanwan''s alias.


    Yang Yue gave a coldugh, didn''t even nce at Yang Wanwan.


    "It''s useless now, you can''t escape. I have no more need for a stupid woman like you either."


    He tossed the phone to Yang Wanwan.


    Looking at the information on the screen, Yang Wanwan''splexion changed dramatically, and she copsed limply on the ground, her mind buzzing.


    "How could this be?"


    Yang Yue sneered lightly: "This is what happens when you offend Huo Shaoting. Rong Dai is his soft spot, you provoked his inverse scales. Even if you altered your appearance, even if you turned to ash, Huo Shaoting has the ability to find you."


    "Please save me! I will definitely listen to you, obey your orders!"


    Only now did Yang Wanwan understand what fear was, what hovering on the brink of death was like.


    "It''s toote. The one chance you had was wasted because of your stupidity."


    Yang Yue answered her very coldly.


    "Shuang, handle it cleanly."


    "No��!"


    Yang Wanwan shrieked, then was knocked out by Shuang the next second.


    ...


    At 10 am, Rong Dai groggily woke up.


    She slowly opened her eyes, the snow-white ceiling made her eyes sting from the re, and her head swam with dizziness.


    Her whole body was weak and sore.


    "Wife."


    Huo Shaoting had been keeping watch over her the whole time. Those few short hours felt extremely, extremely difficult for him.


    Seeing Rong Dai wake up, he was overjoyed, gripping her hands tightly and looking at her gently yet excitedly as he leaned in.


    "Dear, I...it hurts a lot."


    Rong Dai frowned, her voice soft and weak. Aside from the dizziness, her head throbbed with waves of piercing pain.


    Seeing that she was still herself, Huo Shaoting finally felt the tension in his heart rx.


    He carefully helped prop her up, poured some warm water for her, and only then called the doctor in to examine her.


    "There are no major issues now. Be mindful of a lighter diet these next few days, and rest for a week, then there will be nothing to worry about."


    The doctor gave some instructions after the examination.


    Only then was Huo Shaoting reassured. The doctor handed over the medical records andb results to him: "These may be helpful to you, the patient needs rest, don''t let other matters disturb her."


    Huo Shaoting took them and handed them to Assistant Zhang to handle.


    Last night''s events had already exploded online, all the trending topics on social media this morning were about what happened on setst night.


    The warrant had gone out, but someizens'' mouths and hands were more vicious than poison, so rification and evidence were necessary.


    Assistant Zhang was skilled at handling these matters. After publicizing the medical records andb results, the online furor boiled even higher.

 Chapter 179: I don鈥檛 Blame Her

    <h4>Chapter 179</h4>


    "What ... what''s going on? Why am I in the hospital again?"


    Rong Dai drank a few sips of warm water and breathed in some oxygen. She felt much morefortable and looked at Huo Shao Ting in confusion, asking him.


    "It''s alright, it''s all over. You need to rest well now, don''t think about anything. I''m here for you no matter what happens."


    Huo Shao Ting gently advised her not to scare her like this again, as his heart really could not take it.


    Rong Dai nodded without asking him what exactly had happened.


    She still remembered the moment she fainted in the pond.


    At that time, she felt very tired and weak. It was like she had been hypnotized.


    She knew it was dangerous in the pond and wanted to struggle, but her body would not obey.


    After experiencing the covert maneuvers in the harem in her previous life, how could she not realize that this was a setup.


    Knowing there would be fighting scenes in the water, she had asked her little sister-inw to sign her up for swimming lessons.


    Even if she had stumbled, she should not have fainted just like that.


    She was a clever woman. Many details shed through her mind as she keenly analyzed the cause and effect of things.


    Ever since she passed out from low blood sugarst time, Shao Ting had hired the best nutritionist from Shenjing to take care of her diet.


    Her meals had always been prepared by the nutritionist and then brought over by her little sister-inw.


    The nutritionist was personally selected by Shao Ting, so there would be no problem there. And there was no need to mention her little sister-inw.


    So it could only have been that cup of ginger tea brought to her earlier by Wang Xin, a crew member, when she was having her makeup done.


    She hadn''t thought much of it at the time. After all, this was different from her previous life.


    Thew here was strict. Although still somewhatcking, openly plotting murder like this would lead to imprisonment.


    Unless the perpetrator was suicidal, no one would dare scheme so tantly on set.


    So she hadn''t been too guarded. Now it seemed she had been too naive.


    No matter the time or era, there would always be those who dared to take risks.


    Seeing that she did not ask further, Huo Shao Ting guessed what was on her mind.


    His wife was an astute woman. She could figure out some things without being told.


    Just as Huo Shao Ting was adjusting her pillow for her, Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie entered the hospital room.


    "Sister-inw, you''re awake? How are you feeling? Are you a little better?"


    Seeing Rong Dai sitting up in bed, though still pale, at least she was conscious now, Huo Mei Shu hurried over excitedly. Her eyes roamed over Rong Dai as she set down an insted food container.


    Huo Mei Shu naturally hadn''t slept wellst night and had cried a lot. Her eyes were still red.


    "I''m fine. I''m sorry I worried you."


    Rong Dai gave a faint smile. She could see that her little sister-inw had been truly anxious about her.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, and her nasal voice contained a sob. She quickly turned around to wipe her tears.


    She had never been as terrifiedst night as when Left Ran was involved. But when sister-inw nearly drowned and had to be resuscitated for those two minutes, she felt as if she herself had died, devoid of any sensation.


    Fortunately sister-inw was fine now.


    "Sister-inw, drink some hot congee first. It''s boiled white congee that you can only eat right now. I had the nutritionist cook it very mushy."


    Head lowered, Huo Mei Shu spoke as she poured out the hot congee.


    Seeing her red-rimmed eyes, and uncle''s appearance clearly showed he hadn''t rested well either, it seemed they had something to tell Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting, I need Mei Shu''s help with something. Could you and Shao Jie step out for a bit?"


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting gently, her voice sounding weak.


    Listening on the side, Huo Mei Shu''s tears rolled down her cheeks unexpectedly.


    Seeing Huo Shao Jie, Huo Shao Ting pressed his lips in a cold, stern expression.


    Huo Shao Jie looked at her gratefully and followed Huo Shao Ting out of the room.


    "I''m sorry, sister-inw! If I had been more careful, this wouldn''t have happened."


    After the two brothers left, Huo Mei Shu could no longer hold back and burst into tears.


    She looked at Rong Dai remorsefully and distressfully.


    Rong Dai gestured for her to sit and pulled some tissues from the side cab to gently wipe away her little sister-inw''s tears.


    "It''s not your fault. It was me being careless. Don''t me yourself."


    "But I wasn''t diligent enough..."


    "No buts. Mei Shu, we''re family. Let''s not stand on ceremony."


    Rong Dai cut her off.


    After a few months with her little sister-inw, she hade to see Mei Shu as her own sister, just as her elder sister had treated her in her previous life.


    For the sake of her children''s affections in her previous life, she had brought misery to her elder sister.


    Yet her sister had never med her, only supported her in anything she wanted to do, anything her sister agreed with.


    She wanted to be a gentle sister-inw like her elder sister.


    Besides, those ill-intentioned viins, even if they didn''t seed in harming her this time, would certainly try again.


    "You see I''m fine now, don''t be sad. It wasn''t your fault."


    Rong Dai spoke gently, but it only made Huo Mei Shu cry harder.


    Seeing her little sister-inw''s unceasing tears, Rong Dai felt somewhat helpless.


    She didn''t know how dangerous it had beenst night, but it seemed to have truly frightened Mei Shu.


    She simply let Mei Shu cry into herp. Sometimes it was better to let it out than keep it bottled up.


    After weeping for a while, Huo Mei Shu was a little out of breath.


    "Alright, I''m truly fine now, okay?"


    Rong Dai looked at her little sister-inw. Though two years older than Rong Dai''s current body, she was crying like a child.


    It took Huo Mei Shu quite a while to calm down.


    Just then Huo Shao Ting pushed the door open and entered. Not daring to meet her elder brother''s eyes, Huo Mei Shu hurriedly wiped her tears and stood up.


    "Sister-inw, drink the congee. I''lle see you againter."


    Rong Dai nodded. She actually didn''t want Mei Shu to keeping and going like this.


    But if she stopped her, who knew how long it would take for the guilt to fade from Mei Shu''s heart. So she didn''t try to prevent it.


    "No need. I''ll take care of my wife myself."


    Huo Shao Ting was still stern and coldly declined Huo Mei Shu.


    Rong Dai frowned, about to speak, when she saw Mei Shu quickly nod. "I understand, elder brother."


    She knew her elder brother was upset.


    Sister-inw had truly almost died this time.


    She didn''t dare imagine what her elder brother would be if something really happened to sister-inw.


    After her little sister-inw left, Rong Dai drank a couple spoonfuls of the congee and looked at him helplessly. "It wasn''t intentional on Mei Shu''s part. I didn''t even expect something like this myself, you can''t me her."


    "I''m not ming her."


    Huo Shao Ting stubbornly insisted.


    He had originally agreed to let Mei Shu stay by her side precisely because Mei Shu was his sister, and he would feel more at ease than with an outsider.


    But he hadn''t expected this to happen.


    And he knew why Mei Shu insisted oning to the film set.


    He had already properly arranged everything else. Mei Shu only needed to do some trivial tasks each day.


    She didn''t even need to handle Rong Dai''s schedule and time arrangements. Shao Ting had taken care of all that himself. Mei Shu only needed to remind Rong Dai.

 Chapter 180: I鈥檒l Try It With You

    <h4>Chapter 180</h4>


    However, she couldn''t even do this little thing well!


    Huo Shaoting was of course annoyed in his heart. He didn''t care about how much he had sacrificed for the Huo family, nor did he need them to repay him in any way.


    The only person he cared about now was Rong Dai, his wife.


    He only hoped that they could be a little nicer to Rong Dai, take better care of her.


    But they couldn''t even fulfill this little expectation.


    Huo Shaoting was annoyed in his heart, but he was even more angry with himself.


    After all, it was because he didn''t protect her well enough.


    Rong Dai looked into his eyes. She could feel his self-reproach and anger.


    She smiled lightly and reached out to hold his warm palm, "I''m fine now, aren''t I? I''ll be more careful in the future."


    "Mei Shu and Xiao Jie must also feel very worried and guilty. If you me them again, they will feel even more remorseful."


    She pulled him to sit down, cing the bowl on the cab.


    "Shaoting, we are a family. No matter what, they and I will always love you the most."


    "Neither of us wanted this to happen. They are also very uneasy that this urred."


    "I don''t want these things to affect our family atmosphere. If there is anything, any problem, we can solve it together."


    Sheforted Huo Shaoting.


    This man was extremely gentle and attentive to her. After spending these months with him, she could feel that he also yearned for warmth in his heart.


    This man had been lonely for too long, so much so that he was used to ignoring the concern of his loved ones around him. He had already forgotten how to respond to their care.


    She didn''t want him to grow further apart from the Huo family because of her. This was not what she wanted to see.


    "Besides, if you really me Mei Shu and Xiao Jie for this, Granny and Mother would also feel sad. They really care about you. If our family bes estranged, others might be smug about it."


    She held his hand tightly. She could feel the softness in this man.


    But she also hoped that he could show some of this softness to the Huo family as well. They were his closest kin.


    She didn''t want to change him, only to help him return to that warm family he once had.


    She just wanted to tell him that he was never alone.


    "I know it''s very difficult for you to let go of some things now. But with me by your side, I''ll apany you to try, okay?"


    Seeing her paleplexion, Huo Shaoting knew she had just gone through a great cmity, yet she still cared about his rtionship with the Huo family.


    A softness rose in his heart. He stroked her cheek, his voice gentle, "I will."


    Rong Dai felt relieved when she heard his promise.


    She knew he was a man of his word. Since he said this, he really wouldn''t me Little Aunt and Little Uncle anymore.


    The real culprit in this matter wasn''t them anyway. Shaoting was only venting his anxiety about her onto those around her.


    If some ill-intentioned people found out about disharmony within the Huo family, who knows what they would do to celebrate it.


    She wouldn''t let this happen.


    There was indeed little she could do for Shaoting, but there were some things that only she could help him with, so she wouldn''t just sit by.


    After drinking the hot porridge, she fell asleep.


    Her physical exhaustion made her very drowsy. She slept until the afternoon. When she woke up, she felt groggy and her body felt a little hot.


    The doctor happened toe check her condition. After examining her, it turned out she had a high fever.


    Although the doctor had taken preventive measures when she was in the ER that night, with this kind of weather, it would be difficult not to catch a cold after being submerged in the water for so long.


    On top of the cold, Rong Dai felt muddled these past few days, sometimes clear-headed, sometimes delirious.


    But every time she opened her eyes, Huo Shaoting was by her side.


    Rong Dai spent a full five days in the hospital.


    On the sixth day, she was discharged. Qiao Wanzhou, Zhou Jing, and some other actors from the crew wanted toe visit her, but Huo Shaoting blocked them all.


    Rong Dai was helpless. After the married couple returned to their apartment, Huo Shaoting didn''t let her do anything and told her to just rest.


    Rong Dai could only obediently listen. She took out her phone and sent messages in the temporary chat group the crew had set up, informing everyone that she was better and would return to the crew soon.


    "Did this incident cause you any trouble? I''m really sorry about that night. It was just instinct to pull you down with me."


    After replying to the others, she privately messaged Qiao Wanzhou.


    That night by the pond, she had stumbled and nearly dragged Qiao Wanzhou down with her on pure instinct.


    Although the pond wasn''t deep, she still got into trouble. It wouldn''t be surprising if some people deliberately guided public opinion to negatively impact Qiao Wanzhou.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s private message, Qiao Wanzhou knew that she had truly recovered.


    Although they didn''t speak face-to-face, she could feel Rong Dai''s concern from her words.


    She sent Rong Dai a smiling emoji, then quickly typed a reply: No trouble, but you gave me quite a fright!


    Seeing her response, Rong Dai also felt much more at ease.


    Before she could reply, Qiao Wanzhou sent another message: For the sake of my poor heart, you owe me a meal this time.


    Rong Dai smiled. She replied: I''ll treat you when we''re back in Shenjing.


    Qiao Wanzhou responded: Then it''s settled. I won''t disturb your rest. Rest well. I really look forward to the broadcast of this work.


    Rong Dai sent a smiley back, then turned off her phone screen. She curled up on the sofa, gaze shifting to the kitchen.


    The kitchen in this apartment was semi-open. So she could clearly see Huo Shaoting busy at work in the kitchen.


    He wore Bluetooth earphones and was speaking into them. She knew he was taking care of her while working at the same time.


    Although the Huo Corporation was powerful now, it wasn''t so strong that Huo Shaoting could just sit back and rx.


    Her heart felt warm but also a little guilty.


    From the start of their rtionship, Huo Shaoting''s devotion had always exceeded hers.


    He was clearly so busy, thepany clearly couldn''t do without him, yet he insisted on doing these things himself that could have easily been delegated.


    She could feel this man''s gentle thoughtfulness. She clenched her fists slightly, her eyes hardening with determination.

 Chapter 181: Let鈥檚 Eat

    <h4>Chapter 181</h4>


    After Rong Dai was discharged from the hospital, it took her three full days to fully recover.


    When she opened her eyes and saw Huo Shao Ting beside her, a warm smile appeared on her charming face. She reached out and drew back the curtains, looking at the snow flurries outside.


    "It''s cold out, be careful not to catch a chill."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t know why, but he opened his eyes, pulled up the quilt, and turned over to cover her properly, hugging her in his arms.


    Rong Dai turned her head to look at him and said with a smile, "It''s snowing outside, so the New Year must being soon."


    "Yeah, Granny will be back soon too. She called yesterday," the man repliedzily.


    Rong Dai drew back her gaze, leaning against him as she left the curtains open just a crack to watch the falling snow. A warmth filled her heart.


    "Shao Ting, this is the first new year of my new life."


    During those ten years in the cold pce, although she had not been deposed as Empress, she had not been granted the honor of attending the reunion feast.


    For ten whole years, all she heard was of other people''s new years.


    Meanwhile she could only be alone in the cold, bleak pce, burning paper money for her dead nsmen to try to alleviate her guilt.


    For ten whole years, she hadn''t slept a single peaceful night.


    She didn''t know what this new year would be like.


    In the past she hadn''t dared to hope, but now heaven had given her this chance.


    Sometimes people are like this - the greater their hopes grow, the more they will unconsciously begin to aspire to many wonderful things.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes grew profound. Her words resonated deeply with him.


    Husband and wifey in bed looking at the snowy scene, both feeling especially warm and peaceful.


    The so-called tranquil times meant simply that your beloved happened to be by your side, nothing more.


    Rong Dai was lost in her thoughts when she suddenly realized Huo Shao Ting''s breathing had grown ragged. By the time she noticed, he had already pinned her down.


    "Shao Ting, you..."


    Rong Dai was furious, shooting him a coy yet angry nce with her beautiful eyes, but her heart was burning hot...


    The next time Rong Dai awoke, it was already evening.


    The aroma of dinner dishes wafted in from the dining room, causing her traitorous stomach to growl loudly.


    She crawled out of bed, but her legs were sore and weak. She threw an irritated punch into the silken quilt but couldn''t restrain the smile tugging at the corners of her lips.


    "I stewed bird''s nest for you, drink it first. There are two dishes left to finish," she heard Huo Shao Ting say as she emerged from the bedroom. He was wearing an apron and holding adle.


    Rong Dai went to sit at the dining table. Looking at the steaming bird''s nest before her, then back at the man bustling about in the kitchen, she couldn''t help but recall her first impression of him.


    He had been so cold and aloof, without the slightest hint of worldliness about him. And now for her sake he was actually wielding adle in the kitchen.


    She took a sip of the bird''s nest. Seeing the sumptuous spread on the table, her eyes grew dark.


    These past few days Shao Ting had been taking care of her. Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie had asionally sent her messages but she hadn''t seen them in person.


    After finishing the bird''s nest, she went into the kitchen and looked at him with smiling eyes, catching from the corner of her eye ingredients that hadn''t yet been put in the fridge.


    "What else do you want to eat?"


    He nced up at her before she could say anything, already guessing her intention.


    Rong Dai smiled softly. In a wheedling tone she quickly listed off several dish names.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned, casting a hesitant nce at the dining table. He seemed about to say something but held back.


    Seeing that she still didn''t have her full health back, and that she rarely showed interest in eating anything these days, he nodded in acquiescence.


    "Go wait on the sofa, it''ll be ready soon."


    As he cooked, he didn''t forget to admonish Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai obediently nestled into the sofa and watched him wash vegetables and cook, asionally picking up her phone from the coffee table. She sent messages to both Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie, asking them toe eat dinner.


    When Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie received her messages, they were both a little doubtful.


    After all, their eldest brother was still here.


    Huo Mei Shu was a bit bolder. She called Rong Dai directly.


    Rong Dai took the call and spoke to her sister-inw normally, not avoiding Huo Shao Ting.


    Naturally Huo Shao Ting overheard this from the kitchen, but he didn''t say anything.


    After Rong Dai hung up with Huo Mei Shu, she went into the kitchen again and looked at Huo Shao Ting apprehensively, "Shao Ting, you''re not mad at me for taking matters into my own hands, are you?"


    Huo Shao Ting shot her an annoyed nce. "You''ve already told them. Now that they''re on their way, can I still kick them out?"


    Of course he still remembered what she''d said at the hospital that day.


    And just now she had deliberately added more dishes to the menu, so he had already guessed her intention.


    In any case, several days had passed since the incident. Having them over for dinner wasn''t a bad idea. He would have to remind them again.


    Rong Dai smiled and started rolling up her sleeves. "Let me help wash the vegetables."


    Huo Shao Ting grabbed her slender arm to stop her. "You go rest."


    Seeing that he was serious and stern, and that she did indeed feel a little unwell, Rong Dai didn''t insist further. She obediently nestled into the sofa to watch him wash vegetables and cook.


    After the phone call with Rong Dai, Huo Mei Shu also called Huo Shao Jie. The siblings confirmed repeatedly before pressing the doorbell to Rong Dai''s apartment half an hourter.


    These past few days, afraid that Huo Shao Ting was angry and unwilling to see her, Huo Mei Shu had gone to stay in a hotel by herself.


    Rong Dai went to open the door. Seeing the apprehension on both their faces, she took out slippers for them.


    "It''s fine, Shao Ting made a lot of dishes on purpose."


    She reassured them.


    Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie simultaneously nced toward the kitchen. Indeed they saw Huo Shao Ting still cooking in there.


    "Come in first."


    Seeing that they were stuck in the doorway and wouldn''t enter, Rong Dai added.


    The siblings exchanged a look before finally changing their shoes anding inside.


    They had just sat down when Huo Shao Ting came out of the kitchen carrying dishes. His deep gaze swept over them.


    Instantly, Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie felt their scalps tingle. On instinct they stood up at the same time, like children who had done something wrong in front of a parent.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Was he always like this at the Huo household?


    A tyrant?


    She felt a little sympathy for her sister-inw and brother-inw''s past life.


    She shot Huo Shao Ting a re. She had invited them over to eat, not to be lectured.


    Catching his wife''s "decree", Huo Shao Ting''s gaze softened. He withdrew his own and said, "Go wash your hands."


    Then he turned and went back into the kitchen to hang up the apron he''d taken off.


    Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu hurriedly went to wash their hands. When they returned and saw husband and wife already seated, they obediently went to sit down.


    Rong Dai surveyed this awkward atmosphere between the three siblings and internally sighed helplessly. At this rate they wouldn''t even be able to drink water, let alone eat.


    She picked up her chopsticks first, then urged Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu, "Shao Jie, Mei Shu, eat."


    "Thank you, sister-inw."


    The two spoke in unison.


    Rong Dai looked meaningfully at Huo Shao Ting. Only then did the man pick up his chopsticks and start eating.

 Chapter 182: Make His Steps

    <h4>Chapter 182</h4>


    After dinner, although Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu ate a little cautiously, the two were still convinced by the dishes cooked by Huo Shao Ting.


    The table full of food was wiped out clean.


    "Sister-inw, let me do it! You just recovered, go take a rest!"


    Seeing Rong Dai about to clean up the bowls and chopsticks, Huo ShaoJie quickly stepped forward to clean up.


    He''s kidding! With big brother still here, and these were the dishes big brother cooked, if he let sister-inw clean up, wouldn''t big brother wring his neck?


    Huo Mei Shu also quickly echoed to help out. The siblings worked skillfully to take away the bowls and chopsticks and put them in the dishwasher. It looked like they were no strangers to doing this kind of thing.


    Rong Dai was a little amused. Taking the chance while the two were in the kitchen, she gently pulled Huo Shao Ting''s sleeve, "Don''t keep a straight face, they are very nervous."


    Huo Shao Ting looked down at her and raised his brow, "If I listen and do as told, what''s the reward for me, wife?"


    His implication made Rong Dai''s cheeks flush red.


    She hesitated for a few seconds, then tiptoed to kiss his cheek lightly, with her heart thumping wildly.


    "Is this enough?" She red at him indignantly.


    Where did he pick this up?


    The corner of Huo Shao Ting''s mouth curved up in a smile, his voice light and soft as he answered her, "Still not enough, but seeing this kiss from my wife, I won''t fuss over this matter with them."


    Rong Dai was amused.


    This guy obviously still couldn''t find a way to step down from this himself, yet he spoke so proudly.


    But as long as it could ease his rtionship with the Huo family, she was willing to be his stairway down.


    "Big brother, sister-inw, you two rest early. We''ll head back first."


    Emerging from the kitchen, Huo ShaoJie still looked at the couple cautiously. Huo Mei Shu didn''t even dare look at Huo Shao Ting.


    "I''m returning to Shenjing tomorrow. Take good care of your sister-inw."


    Huo Shao Ting replied ndly to the two.


    Although his tone was neither warm nor cold, it was enough to make Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu delighted! For big brother to say this meant he was no longer fussing over this matter!


    "Big brother, don''t worry. I will definitely take good care of sister-inw!"


    Huo Mei Shu answered resolutely.


    Watching the siblings leave, Rong Dai looked at Huo Shao Ting helplessly.


    Let it go, he still needed some time.


    Being impatient would only make everyone feel awkward. It''s better to take it slow.


    "I''m going to handlepany affairs. Go rest, I''ll apany youter."


    Huo Shao Ting held her by the waist, his voice gentle and soft, a stark contrast from his coldness in front of the Huo family.


    Rong Dai nodded, watching him head to the study. She took out her phone and snuggled into the sofa, covering herself with a small nket. She added little sister-inw and little brother-inw into a group chat.


    Shao Ting wasing around, but he needed time.


    She also hoped the Huo family could give him that time. After all, he didn''t be like this overnight.


    Compared to big brother Huo Shao Ting, Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu''s personalities were much more cheerful.


    Seeing Rong Dai exin it this way, the two were very happy and also very grateful to her.


    All these years, big brother had shielded them from the wind and rain outside so their big family could live safe and sound.


    Now that big brother was adapting and changing, this was already something very worth celebrating for them.


    Seeing the siblings'' messages, a smile appeared at the corner of Rong Dai''s mouth.


    Actually, the Huo family were all very warm people.


    Whether it was Shao Ting, old Madam, mother-inw, little uncle and little auntie, they were all very warm.


    And their warmth also melted her.


    For this family, she was also willing to respond with her own warmth, to protect this family in her own way.


    Everything she had now was bestowed upon her by fate. She would certainly cherish such extravagant fortune.


    After chatting with the siblings, she finally had time to lurk on Weibo.


    The hot search about her near drowning had died down, with other celebrity gossip now trending.


    Searching, she could still find news about the incident.


    She watched the video. She didn''t expect the situation then to be so dangerous.


    She sank to the bottom of the pond almost instantly without struggling at all.


    No wonder the crew were so frightened.


    No wonder Huo Shao Ting was so angry and anxious.


    Even she, the person involved, now felt apprehensive watching it.


    If it had been a few minutester, she might have really drowned.


    After all, she was unconscious for those few minutes.


    But breathing wouldn''t just stop.


    The footage of Zhou Jing carrying her out of the pond was very clear. She now owed Zhou Jing a life-saving favor.


    Rong Dai silently made a mental note of this.


    When the news broke, her Weibo was overrun byizens.


    Some were worried for her, praying for her.


    Of course there were also those cursing her.


    "Why is it always news about this woman? So annoying!"


    "This cheap sl*t should just die if she drowned! Looking at her is irritating!"


    "Sold yourself into a rich family, just be a good rich wife! Still have to steal the limelight like this, serves you right that Heaven is punishing you!"


    And so on with viciousments.


    Rong Dai only nced over them, then deleted thesements one by one.


    If she wasn''t a transmigrated old soul who had seen far more sinister things in her previous life, these words could have crushed a young girl''s psyche.


    Some people would never know how sinful their own words and actions were.


    Killing with words, such vicious diatribe could scar even the sunniest soul.


    She was clearly the victim, yet she was the one being scolded and cursed.


    The human heart could sometimes be so sinister.


    After deleting thosements, she posted a message with a photo of her dining with the Huo siblings tonight��


    I''m fine, thanks to everyone''s care. Your warmth is the best nourishment for my growth. Thank you to those online who prayed and worried for me.


    You are the warmest brazier in this cold winter. I hope your lives will be like that vigorous brazier, forever ardent and full of warmth.


    I''m very sorry that because of me, someizens feel disgusted.


    I''m very sorry that this matter has soured your mood.


    But a kind word warms three winters, while a vicious word wounds like six months of chill.


    I know I''m still not good enough, I still have a long way to go.


    If you like me, please just support me silently.


    If you don''t like me, please don''t hurt me, just don''t look.


    Evil is not just in actions, but in the heart.


    Thank you.


    Just minutes after she posted, Qiao Wanzhou immediatelymented and reposted.


    Within half an hour, her post was reposted over a thousand times.


    Rong Dai smiled and turned off her phone screen, getting up to make soothing tea for Huo Shao Ting in the kitchen.


    She believed she would get better and better, and so would her rtionship with Shao Ting.

 Chapter 183: And What You Didn鈥檛 Bring

    <h4>Chapter 183</h4>


    The next day, Rong Dai, while Huo Shao Ting was still asleep, tiptoed out of bed and busied herself in the kitchen.


    During the past few days in the hospital, it was Huo Shao Ting who had taken care of her, and he had made all the meals himself.


    He didn''t even use the meals prepared by the nutritionist.


    She remembered in her heart his thoughtfulness and care.


    Although she and Shao Ting were husband and wife, his efforts were not obligatory, and she could not keep taking from him.


    After going through the events of her past life, she now understood something very clearly.


    No matter if they were lovers or spouses, friends or family, they needed to make mutual efforts for each other.


    No one in this world would be nice to you for no reason.


    Feelings were such a wonderful thing, efforts were extremely important.


    In normal husband and wife rtionships, if only one side made efforts while the other enjoyed and took, after a long time, the feelings would be unbnced.


    In her past life, she had blindly made efforts, but forgot that some feelings could not be reciprocated just by continual giving.


    Feelings went both ways.


    The Emperor in her past life only used her, he had no feelings at all, so how could he make efforts for her?


    Now she had Huo Shao Ting by her side.


    He was so nice to her, she could not just bask in his warmth either.


    Huo Shao Ting always woke up early, but today, whether it was because he had to take care of Rong Dai these past few days or handlepany matters, he woke up exceptionallyte.


    When Rong Dai saw he was still not awake, she kept the breakfast warm and went into the study herself.


    She had already not worked for a week, she had to return to the crew to work normally as soon as possible.


    When Huo Shao Ting naturally awoke, he found the spot beside him empty, and his brows knitted as he sat up from the bed.


    Rong Dai estimated the time and it was about right, she had juste out of the study when they bumped into each other head on.


    "Why didn''t you sleep a little longer?"


    Huo Shao Ting embraced her, looking down at her, his voice was gentle and doting, in stark contrast with his usual cold demeanor.


    Rong Dai was already used to his frequent intimate gestures, and took the initiative to wrap her arms around his neck, "I''ve already slept so much these past few days, so I got up and read through the script for a while. Seeing that you were tired these past few days, I didn''t wake you up."


    "Aren''t you returning to Shengjing today? I''ve prepared breakfast, go wash up and you can eat after."


    Huo Shao Ting responded and took the chance to kiss her forehead before turning to go to the bathroom.


    Rong Dai brought the breakfast to the dining table. The heating was on in the apartment, much more convenient and warm than burning coal braziers in her past life.


    After the married couple finished breakfast, Rong Dai went to pack his luggage while Huo Shao Ting called his assistant Zhang. After hanging up the call, he went into the bedroom and saw her carefully folding his clothes and packing them into the luggage case.


    Although these trivial matters didn''t require her personal involvement, seeing her thoughtfully folding his clothes and packing them, Huo Shao Ting felt a sense of satisfaction he had never experienced before.


    "Thank you, my wife."


    He embraced Rong Dai''s waist from behind, resting his chin on her long, swan-like neck, and said softly.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, she was now adept at handling these matters smoothly.


    "See if there''s anything else that needs packing, don''t leave anything behind when you go back."


    "You''re alsoing with me."


    Huo Shao Ting held her, inhaling the fragrance of her hair, his lips kissed her fair neck, whispering words of love by her ear.


    Rong Dai''s earlobes turned red, her heart uncontrobly racing.


    Although she was already used to his passion towards her, such intimate moments still made her nervous and bashful every time.


    Rong Dai had originally intended to go to the set in the afternoon, but her ns were disrupted by Huo Shao Ting, who kept herpany until the evening.


    If not for urgentpany matters, Huo Shao Ting would not have left so readily.


    After sending him off, Rong Dai returned to the apartment, her body ached all over but her heart felt sweet as honey.


    After being toyed with by Huo Shao Ting the entire afternoon, she had wanted to nap a little, but the doorbell rang.


    She had no choice but to wrap herself in a thin nket and answer the door.


    "Miss Qiao, Senior Zhou."


    Seeing the two of them appear at her door, Rong Dai was quite surprised.


    "We''ve been working together for months, yet you''re still so formal with me?"


    Qiao Wanzhou saw that she looked well, and was relieved, but her mouth didn''t show mercy.


    "Won''t you invite us in to sit? I purposely came after seeing Young Master Huo leave."


    Qiao Wanzhou raised her brow at her.


    Only then did Rong Dai remember to let them in, "I''m really sorry, I was just a bit shocked. Pleasee in, it''s cold outside since it''s raining."


    She hurriedly brought them slippers.


    "This is a little something from everyone in the crew, they were all very worried about you these past few days. They wanted toe see you, but with Young Master Huo here, they probably felt it would be inappropriate, so no one came."


    Zhou Jing ced the fruit basket and flowers he held onto the table, and sat properly on the sofa.


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai smiled faintly, and poured them sses of warm water.


    "I didn''t have any scenes today, and when I heard from Mei Shu yesterday that Young Master Huo was returning today, I asked Zhou Jing toe with me and see how you were doing."


    Qiao Wanzhou took a sip of water, her gaze sweeping the apartment.


    "I''m better now, sorry to have worried all of you. I can return to the crew tomorrow."


    Rong Dai exined.


    After all, these two were important figures both in the industry and the crew.


    It was understandable that Uncle Xiao and Lu Ye felt they needed someone to remind her.


    "I didn''te here to rush you back to the crew. The filming is going very smoothly, originally it would have taken about a year, but the director estimated we can finish in March or April."


    Qiao Wanzhou casually leaned back on the sofa, propping her cheek with one hand, smiling as she looked at her and exined.


    "Then, you two..."


    Rong Dai was a little confused. Since they didn''te to rush her, what were they here for?


    It didn''t seem likely they came specially to see her.


    Qiao Wanzhou nced at Zhou Jing, then turned her gaze to Rong Dai.


    "Let''s go out for dinner tonight? We''ve been working together these past few months after all. It''s rare we have a few days off, it would be a waste to just lie at home and sleep."


    Rong Dai looked at Zhou Jing after hearing her words.


    She sensed something was off - they didn''te together.


    Qiao Wanzhou came on her own to see her, while Zhou Jing probably truly came on behalf of the other actors to check up on her.


    "What about you, Senior Zhou? Since the weather is cold, hotpot is most suitable. I''ll call Mei Shu and let''s go together?"


    Rong Dai was clever.


    Qiao Wanzhou was an intelligent woman, she wouldn''t randomly invite her to dinner.


    Also, these past few months in the crew, although she was close with them, she always felt something was going on between Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing.


    Qiao Wanzhou didn''t seem interested in Shao Ting like she had imed before.


    She was interested in Zhou Jing.


    Zhou Jing was a man, Qiao Wanzhou''s senior. He was very humble in the crew, without any airs of a celebrity, and was well-liked.


    Zhou Jing wasn''t stupid either. He should have sensed Qiao Wanzhou''s unusual attitude towards him, but what was the deal between them? They looked so awkward.

 Chapter 184: The Heart of Qiao Wanzhou

    <h4>Chapter 184</h4>


    "No, it''s a girls'' gathering. It wouldn''t be appropriate for me, a grown man, to disturb you. There are some details in the script that I need to review," Zhou Jing said in a gentle manner.


    But Rong Dai could clearly see that Qiao Wanzhou was momentarily infuriated.


    However, when Zhou Jing stood up and left, she felt helpless and disappointed.


    After Zhou Jing left, Rong Dai reced Qiao Wanzhou''s drink with a ss of juice.


    Sitting on the sofa opposite Qiao Wanzhou, she looked at her and said, "Miss Qiao..."


    "Can''t you call me Qiao Wanzhou or just Qiao Jiejie? Why do you have to be so formal?" Qiao Wanzhou retorted as soon as she heard Rong Dai call her.


    Rong Dai sighed lightly in her heart. This woman was just too easily foolish.


    Especially when it came to matters of the heart.


    Rong Dai could tell that Qiao Wanzhou really liked Zhou Jing, but Zhou Jing''s attitude towards her was ambiguous.


    He was sometimes good and sometimes bad.


    When he was being good, as soon as Qiao Wanzhou finished shooting a scene, he would prepare water, tissues, a chair, and snacks she liked, taking care of her every need.


    But when he was being bad, it was like just now��cold and distant, as if he didn''t even know her.


    "I''m sorry, I just... feel a bit upset. Do you have any alcohol at home?" Qiao Wanzhou apologized with a remorseful look after a few seconds.


    "It''s fine, I understand how you feel," Rong Dai replied with a faint smile. She had wanted to ask something, but it was obvious that Qiao Wanzhou knew about the issue between her and Zhou Jing. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have shown that helpless and disappointed emotion just now.


    "I have some alcohol, but it''s not good to drink on an empty stomach. If you don''t mind waiting, I can make dinner and we can have a little drink together."


    "That would be great... I just want to stay here for a while. I don''t have many ces to go," Qiao Wanzhou said gratefully as she looked at Rong Dai. This was also why she liked Rong Dai so much when she first met her.


    Her judgment was never wrong.


    Rong Dai was considerate, but not foolish. She had her own bottom line and principles.


    And she had ambitions of her own.


    When Qiao Wanzhou saw Rong Dai at the Qiao family''s ce, she was initially just curious.


    After all, Huo Shao Ting was not much older than them, yet he had be a legend at such a young age.


    The person who could be his wife was naturally intriguing.


    During the months of working with Rong Dai on the set, Qiao Wanzhou had grown to appreciate her more and more. She really wanted to be friends with Rong Dai.


    But Rong Dai seemed to maintain a distance and caution towards people around her, except for the people from the Huo family.


    Although she had achieved great sess through her endeavors, it hade at the cost of not just her energy, but also many other things.


    Such as friends, true friends.


    And she had none.


    If she were to say this to others, they would probably think she was being melodramatic.


    How could a popr actress like her, who had everything she wanted, not have any friends?


    But that was the reality.


    The people around her, the ones she could truly open up to and feel safe with, there was not a single friend among them.


    Rong Dai looked at her, a gentle smile appearing on her charming face. "I actually haven''t had dinner either. It''s quite lonely to eat alone, so I really appreciate youing over to have dinner with me."


    Having spent these past few months with Qiao Wanzhou on the set, Rong Dai hade to understand her to some extent.


    In fact, she empathized with Qiao Wanzhou''s helplessness and her pretense of strength.


    In her previous life, before she became the emperor''s consort and empress.


    Her family background, her talents, and her beauty were enough to overshadow all the youngdies in the imperial capital.


    After she came of age, there was a constant stream of suitors from prestigious familiesing to propose marriage to her in the General''s Manor. The nobledies who befriended her all spoke with exceptional sincerity.


    But on the day of the incident at the Rong residence, the day she was sent to the cold pce.


    Not a single person stood up for the Rong family, not a single person spared her a nce.


    It was during those ten years in the cold pce that she truly understood the meaning of friendship.


    So she understood Qiao Wanzhou''s sense of loneliness very well.


    The more outstanding one is, the more one may lose.


    It could be a trusted friend in your eyes or even a close rtive who usually cares deeply for you.


    During those ten years in the cold pce, she constantly reflected on herself.


    Later, she came to understand.


    The more exceptional you be, the fewer people genuinely care about you, and the stronger the sense of loneliness grows.


    Meanwhile, small-minded people multiply like weeds.


    And these small-minded people, when the dayes that she falls from grace, will turn against her without mercy.


    So during these months on the set, apart from her sister-inw, brother-inw, and Lu Ye, she kept her distance from everyone else.


    She avoided trouble, but once she found herself in the midst of it, there was no way to escape.


    So she tried to avoid it whenever possible.


    But seeing Qiao Wanzhou in her current state, she couldn''t help but feel empathy, otherwise she wouldn''t have asked Zhou Jing earlier.


    Because she saw a reflection of her past self.


    But Qiao Wanzhou was smarter than her, not deceived by the illusions around her.


    So, as one bes more outstanding, they can see more clearly who around them are genuine and who are not, and what things they truly need.


    Life is short, and there are actually very few people and things that can make oneself truly satisfied and joyful.


    "If you don''t mind, my sister-inw lives across from me. She''s been very nervous these days because her brother is here. She might not have had dinner yet. If you''re willing, I can call her over to keep youpany. Perhaps the two of you have some things to talk about."


    Rong Dai didn''t forget about her sister-inw''s concerns.


    Her sister-inw had been thinking about Gu Chengyan all this time, but that mysterious Gu Chengyan had yet to appear on the set.


    Both her sister-inw and Qiao Wanzhou had someone in their hearts, but they couldn''t have them.


    In this regard, they probably had a lot to talk about.


    As for herself, well, it didn''t matter.


    Although she also liked Qiao Wanzhou very much and hoped to have a true friend here.


    But such things couldn''t be forced.


    And Qiao Wanzhou was a very clever woman. If she were to say something wrong in front of her, it wouldn''t be good.


    "It''s alright, go ahead and call her over."


    Qiao Wanzhou slumped on the couch, looking exhausted.


    "It''s fine if you want to take off your shoes and sit on the couch. I don''t mind," Zhou Jing said.


    Rong Dai nodded. Seeing her hesitantly sitting on the couch, Zhou Jing added, "You can rx and sitfortably. I''ll go knock on the door of our sister-inw."


    "Big sister-inw..."


    Huo Mei Shu had only returned to the apartmentst night after confirming that their eldest brother wasn''t angry with them over dinner.


    She had been on edge for the past few days and couldn''t sleep well.


    Now that she finally rxed, she fell into a deep slumber.


    "Mei Shu, freshen up quickly ande over for dinner. I''ll make hot pot," Rong Dai said, feeling both pity and helplessness seeing her sister-inw''s sleepy eyes.


    Although Huo Mei Shu was two years older, she had a very candid personality, and this incident must have scared her badly.


    As soon as Huo Mei Shu heard that Rong Dai was going to cook something delicious, her eyes lit up.


    "But what about my eldest brother..."


    Although she wanted to eat, she still had some lingering fear of her stern-faced eldest brother.


    Rong Dai smiled wryly, "Did you forget that your eldest brother is going back today? He took a flight this afternoon. Hurry up and freshen up, both Miss Qiao and Miss Zhou are waiting."

 Chapter 185: I Want to Look at You

    <h4>Chapter 185</h4>


    "Give me three minutes!"


    Huo Mei Shu immediately perked up, holding up three fingers to answer Rong Dai, before scurrying off in her slippers to wash up, going "tap tap tap".


    Rong Daiughed helplessly, turning around to go back to the apartment to cook.


    Just as she said, after three minutes Huo Mei Shu came over. Seeing Qiao Wanzhou curled up gloomily on the sofa, she went to the kitchen to ask Rong Dai softly,


    "Sister-inw, what''s going on with Sister Qiao? She looks very down."


    As an outsider, Rong Dai was not in a position to say much about Qiao Wanzhou''s matters.


    "She''s probably tired from filming."


    If Qiao Wanzhou was willing to talk to her younger sister-inw, she wouldn''t need to say anything.


    "Sister-inw, let me wash the vegetables."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded and went over there, rolling up her sleeves.


    Rong Dai did not stop her either. The sisters-inw busied themselves in the kitchen for almost an hour before a steaming hotpot was ready.


    The rich aroma of the soup made one hungry. Even Qiao Wanzhou perked up a little.


    Knowing Rong Dai liked champagne, Zhou Shao Ting had bought a lot and kept it in the wine cab when purchasing the apartment.


    Qiao Wanzhou chose red wine, while Huo Mei Shu preferred champagne as well.


    It''s said three women makes for great drama, and this was certainly true.


    With the alcohol taking effect, Qiao Wanzhou and her younger sister-inw became chatty.


    Watching these two womenmiserating in misery, Rong Dai realized her earlier joke about them having something inmon was spot on.


    After the hotpot, Rong Dai had eaten half the dishes herself.


    Qiao Wanzhou drank one and a half bottles of red wine alone, while her younger sister-inw had half a bottle of red wine and half a bottle of champagne.


    Afraid they would get rowdy if they drank any more, Rong Dai hid away the remaining wine.


    But neither Qiao Wanzhou nor her sister-inw could hold their liquor well, and were already dead drunk.


    Yet they kept jolting up asionally to startle her.


    "Zhou Jing, you...you bastard...what''s wrong with me?"


    "I''ve liked you for so many years...are you made of wood? How could you not have any feelings at all?"


    Qiao Wanzhou was truly drunk.


    Working together on set this time, she could no longer contain feelings she had kept hidden in her heart.


    Hugging a pillow as if it was Zhou Jing, one moment she would cry, the next she wouldugh, mangling the poor pillow.


    Meanwhile, Huo Mei Shu obediently curled up on the sofa, fast asleep after getting drunk.


    Watching Qiao Wanzhou''s drunken antics, Rong Dai was shocked and tried to tidy up the hotpot and everything else into the kitchen.


    "It''s Zhou Jing, who''s this?"


    Just as Rong Dai came out from the kitchen, she saw Qiao Wanzhou calling Zhou Jing himself on her phone.


    She couldn''t help but gasp, watching the crying andughing Qiao Wanzhou. All she could do was take the phone from her.


    "It''s me, Senior Zhou."


    Hearing it was Rong Dai, Zhou Jing was still a little surprised.


    But upon hearing the crying and shouting of a drunk Qiao Wanzhou in the background, his expression changed and he quickly put down the script in his hand.


    "Wanzhou is still at your ce?"


    Seeing Qiao Wanzhou clinging to her like an octopus, Rong Dai gave a helplessugh. She shouldn''t have brought this up.


    "Yes, Miss Qiao is drunk and keeps calling out your name, Senior."


    "I really have no way to deal with this, so I called you, Senior Zhou. Would it be convenient for you toe over?"


    Given Qiao Wanzhou''s state, Zhou Jing was probably the only one who could handle her.


    At least her sister-inw was simple. She had obediently fallen asleep after getting drunk.


    "I''ll be right there. Please keep an eye on her, when she''s drunk...she likes to wander around. Don''t let her leave the house no matter what."


    Zhou Jing quickly instructed her.


    Rong Dai acknowledged him and hung up the call, before proceeding to chase Qiao Wanzhou all over the house.


    By the time Zhou Jing arrived, Rong Dai was out of breath and her forehead dripping with sweat.


    She really could not handle Qiao Wanzhou.


    Drunk women were frightening.


    "Jingjing..."


    Still unclear if she was really drunk or just pretending, Qiao Wanzhou ran over barefoot upon seeing Zhou Jing enter. Clinging onto him like a ko.


    "I have a spare bedroom here. Please take her there to rest, I really can''t handle her."


    Wiping the sweat from her forehead, Rong Dai panted and told him.


    Wrangling drunk people was way harder than embroidery or reading.


    "Thank you. She recognizes beds, she has a ce here, so I''ll bring her back."


    "You''ve just recovered too, you should rest."


    Zhou Jing held Qiao Wanzhou, his brows and eyes much softer than his usual coolness.


    Hearing him say this, Rong Dai did not think too much of it.


    She trusted her judgement of Zhou Jing''s character. He would not do anything to Qiao Wanzhou. If anything, it was more likely Qiao Wanzhou would do something to him.


    "I''ll ask my bodyguards to assist you. This neighborhood is safe, but please still be careful."


    Rong Dai instructed him, before calling the bodyguard Huo Shao Ting had sent to protect her.


    Zhou Jing nodded, thanking her before bundling Qiao Wanzhou snugly in her down jacket,pletely covering her face, then carried her downstairs.


    "Phew-"


    With them gone, Rong Dai''s ears were finally met with silence. She heaved a sigh of relief.


    "Mei Shu, let''s go to bed."


    She went to the sofa and pulled up her sister-inw. Thankfully Huo Mei Shu held her liquor decently well, groggily allowing herself to be supported by Rong Dai into the spare bedroom to rest.


    Only then did Rong Dai start tidying up the house. After finishing cleaning and sitting down on the sofa to rub her sore arms, her phone lit up.


    It was a WeChat video call from Huo Shao Ting.


    She picked up without hesitation. Seeing him still busy at work, she felt sorry for him.


    "You''ve been drinking?"


    Noticing Rong Dai''s flushedplexion and the light sweat on her forehead, Huo Shao Ting frowned as he asked.


    Rong Dai nodded, not hiding the fact she had dinner and drinks that night with Qiao Wanzhou and her sister-inw.


    "Qiao Wanzhou, she''s fine as an ordinary friend. Whether to get close with her further depends on how you feel."


    Huo Shao Ting did not fault her for drinking, but was very serious in advising her about Qiao Wanzhou.


    "Miss Qiao is quite nice."


    Rong Dai leaned back against the sofa, hands holding her phone on herp. Her gaze was gentle and greedy as she looked at him on the video.


    It seemed the more intimate they grew, the more she relied on Huo Shao Ting.


    "I only want you by my side, that''s enough."


    Huo Shao Ting exined solemnly.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, only just recalling she had jokingly told him Qiao Wanzhou''s words before.


    She was a little exasperated. "At most Miss Qiao admires you. She already has someone she likes."


    Huo Shao Ting did not ask who Qiao Wanzhou liked. As long as she did not like him, that was fine.


    Hearing this, he nodded seriously. "That''s good then."


    The couple had barely spoken a few sentences when Zhang, his assistant, came to call him for a meeting.


    "Shao Ting...I want to look at you."


    Seeing him about to hang up the video, Rong Dai blurted out pleadingly.


    The words were out before she could stop them, and her cheeks grew even redder. She wanted to see more of him. Though they had only been apart for a few hours, she already missed him dearly.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her indulgently. "Alright."


    Rong Dai was immediately satisfied, pulling up a thin nket to cover herself as she stared at the phone.


    She would never have made such a request in her past life.


    Yet just now, she simply couldn''t bear to part from him, speaking on a whim.


    Seeing his boss taking his phone to the conference room, Zhang the assistant sighed inwardly.


    As expected, when in love, the boss''s tolerance was infinite - though of course, only for his wife.


    Holding a video call with his wife while chairing a meeting, this was truly unprecedented!

 Chapter 186: His Hard Work

    <h4>Chapter 186</h4>


    Rong Dai leaned back on the sofa without making a sound, just watching Huo Shao Ting quietly on the other end of the video.


    He was cold, handsome, and wise.


    She had been very tired that afternoon, and had just been teased by Qiao Wanzhou and her little sister-inw. She really wanted to sleep.


    But when she saw Huo Shao Ting, she was no longer sleepy.


    She watched him quietly on the video. She didn''t understand the content of the meeting.


    But the people having the meeting in the conference room didn''t look very young.


    When she was in Shenjing, she went to thepany frequently for a period of time.


    So she knew about some of thepany''s personnel.


    Huo Shao Ting now held most of the controlling shares of Huo''s Enterprise, but there were still some shares given to the original shareholders.


    Although their shares were not many, for major decisions of thepany, their votes were required.


    Huo Shao Ting did not have free rein in thepany.


    He had to deal with these stubborn shareholders and handle thepany''s affairs.


    Huo''s Enterprise''s sess today could not be attributed entirely to Huo Shao Ting, but his contribution was the greatest.


    As a result, in recent years, even his rtionships with his family had be distant.


    "Why has the funding allocated by thepany for the Su City project been frozen? I think the Su City project looks very promising," a shareholder raised a question.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly. The words "Su City" seemed familiar to her.


    After thinking for a while, she remembered that when the Huo family was in turmoil over the Wen family��s matters, people from Huo Second Master''s side hade to Huo''s residence to cause trouble.


    At that time, Huo Shaoqian had said something to Huo Shao Ting about the Su City project.


    Huo Shaoqian had been a little exasperated at the time.


    Although she didn''t understand business matters, she could tell that these old men were taking advantage of their status as original shareholders.


    On one hand they enjoyed the profits earned by Shao Ting''s hard work, while on the other they were dissatisfied with him and tried to control him.


    While she didn''t understand anything about the business world, she understood human nature.


    These original shareholders were clearly intentionally making things difficult for him.


    From the beginning of the meeting, although they spoke politely, their words were full of arrogance and doubt.


    What were they trying to do?


    The business was well-managed now, they could earn money just sitting at home.


    Yet they sang a different tune from Huo Shao Ting?


    With all kinds of questions in mind, she could not ask them, she could only listen carefully and do her homeworkter.


    She saw Huo Shao Ting''s face was very cold, even his eyes were as icy as when she first met him.


    She couldn''t tell how serious these matters were, but she could see these people were deliberately causing trouble for Shao Ting.


    Rong Dai felt extremely distressed.


    Outsiders thought Huo Shao Ting was young and promising, able to make such a hugepany thrive at a young age.


    Everyone who looked at the Huo family and Shao Ting saw a bright and glorious prominent family.


    But they couldn''t see the Huo family''s own contradictions, such as those on Huo Second Master''s side.


    Nor could they see Huo Shao Ting''s hard work.


    In the eyes of outsiders, apany president of Huo Shao Ting''s stature was not only wealthy but also handsome.


    Every day he only needed to drink coffee in his office, sign some documents, and he would have more moneying into his wallet than he could spend.


    But now it was already ten o''clock at night.


    Who could have imagined that this big boss was still in a meeting?


    Rong Dai could see his hard work.


    Rong Dai felt increasingly distressed.


    Thepany was so busy, yet he still had to face the harassment of the old shareholders.


    But he had never said a word to her about it.


    He hadn''t even told his own family.


    The meetingsted a full hour.


    Huo Shao Ting''s approach was very simple and crude. Naturally he didn''t yell at people or use coercion.


    Rather, he sent all the information investigated about the Su City project to those people, one copy each.


    Then he presented the data, evaluated the risks, and predicted the returns.


    In the end, the project would lose one billion.


    One billion was not a particrly huge amount for such a massive enterprise like Huo''s. But Huo''s funds were not blown in by the wind, for Huo Shaoqian to squander recklessly.


    After all, Huo''s Enterprise was not a mint, every penny earned was legitimate.


    The Su City project was risky. Losing one billion was just the visible loss.


    The invisible loss was Huo''s Enterprise''s reputation.


    Huo Shao Ting was very clear about the matter with Su City.


    He had indeed made preparations, just waiting for Huo Shaoqian to jump in himself.


    Whether to jump in or not was up to Huo Shaoqian''s self-control and vision.


    It was not as if he was holding a knife to his neck and forcing him to act.


    "Do any of you have other opinions? Speak up now and I''ll exin clearly," said Huo Shao Ting as he sat down and nced at Rong Dai on the video, with deep tenderness in his eyes.


    "Of course, if any of you still think the Su City project is a lucrative deal, you can fund it yourself from your own pocket."


    "I have no opinion. After all, one billion is not arge sum for you," said the man coldly, a mocking look on his stern face.


    "But whoever wants to implicate Huo''s Enterprise''s reputation to do business, don''t me me for being merciless."


    "If anyone still thinks the Huo family alone has given you the means to live infort and luxury, you''d better resolve those rotten matters yourselves, now that I''m still speaking nicely."


    "Otherwise when I investigate each matter one by one, I won''t be so amodating."


    "You all have wives and children to support. I, Huo Shaoting, am no deity. I also have a wife and children to support. Whoever damages thepany''s reputation and interests, I will be ruthless even to my own uncles."


    "If you don''t believe me, you cane at me one-on-one. Don''t continually test my patience."


    His cold and heartless words changed theplexions of those original shareholders.


    They looked at each other, but dared not retort casually.


    They had underestimated Huo Shao Ting''s capabilities and skill.


    "I''m still willing to let you keep those shares for now, so you should behave yourselves. ording to the original incorporation agreement, I can take back those shares anytime if I want."


    "Don''t force me to go scorched earth. No matter what promises Huo Feng gave you, unless he can remove me from this position now."


    "But remember, it was thepany that gave you everything."


    His ruthless words showed that his patience was nearing its limit.


    Otherwise he would not have said such harsh things, and would have just dealt with them directly.


    By saying this, he was merely giving these shareholders a chance.


    After all, they did contribute when thepany was first founded.

 Chapter 187: Who wants to see You

    <h4>Chapter 187</h4>


    Rong Dai watched as the original shareholders left the meeting room with dejected expressions, feeling a pang of heartache for Huo Shao Ting.


    His job was already exhausting enough, and now he had to deal with these frustrating matters.


    She hoped that these original shareholders would remember the words Huo Shao Ting had spoken tonight, because their future was tied to the fate of the Wen family.


    The meeting room fell silent, and Huo Shao Ting took his phone and documents back to his top-floor resting room.


    "Shao Ting, rest early," she said, gently touching the screen of her phone, longing to caress his weary cheek.


    He wasn''t a superhuman; he got tired too.


    Huo Shao Ting also looked at her earnestly and tenderly. Seeing her nestled on the couch,zily resembling a little kitten, softened his heart. He wished he could immediately embrace her in his arms.


    "Wife, I miss you," he said in a soft voice.


    Huo Shao Ting felt like he was losing his mind. His lifestyle had always revolved around work, and nothing else mattered. As long as he safeguarded thepany, the Huo family would be secure.


    But after meeting Rong Dai, his world gradually changed.


    He learned to be gentle and to try to understand.


    Otherwise, in a situation like today''s meeting, he wouldn''t have wasted time listening to their nonsense. The most direct and effective way to handle it would have been to reim their shares, offer them enough money, and let them leave thepany to retire.


    But he thought of Rong Dai.


    She had been in a very difficult situation herself, trying to please the people around her with caution and obedience.


    He remembered all her carefulness vividly.


    Although the money these original shareholders had received from thepany would be enough to support their families for several lifetimes, he still didn''t choose the simplest and most effective way to handle this matter.


    Just as he had said earlier, they had family members to support, and he was no exception.


    These were issues that he would never have considered before.


    But now, it all depended on whether those people would cherish this opportunity.


    If they didn''t, he wouldn''t give them a second chance.


    Hardly anyone had the privilege of receiving a second chance from Huo Shao Ting.


    Rong Dai looked at him on the screen. After he shed his burdens and aura, he was just an ordinary man.


    He would get tired and need warmth and care too.


    Rong Dai wished she could fly to his side right now.


    Perhaps it was because of her past experiences that she viewed many things from a different perspective and felt differently.


    Huo Shao Ting took care of her meticulously and showed tender and delicate concern.


    All of this made her feel warm, so she was willing to respond to the tenderness and warmth he gave her.


    "I miss you too," she replied, blushing, her eyes greedily fixed on him.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at his wristwatch; it was nearly midnight.


    The couple indulged in another fifteen minutes of affectionate moments. Huo Shao Ting tried several times to instruct her to go to sleep, but Rong Dai yfully resisted.


    "Does my wife want to watch me take a bath?" Huo Shao Ting asked, a teasing smile ying at the corner of his eyes.


    Rong Dai''s ears flushed instantly, and she shot him an annoyed nce. "Who wants to look at you!?"


    This guy was bing more and more incorrigible!


    It was rare for her to engage in such a conversation with him, letting go of all her thoughts, but he always had a way of ruining the atmosphere.


    "I''m going to bed!"


    As Rong Dai saw him actually taking off his shirt, her heart started pounding, and her cheeks zed with heat.


    She uttered a disgruntled remark and promptly ended the video call.


    Seeing the call being disconnected, Huo Shao Ting''s expression softened with tenderness at his brow and eyes. He touched his phone a couple of times and bid her goodnight before heading to take a shower.


    Upon receiving his text, Rong Dai''s lips involuntarily curled upwards. She nced at the time and pondered for a moment before initiating a video call with Mrs. Huo.


    "Oh, Rong Rong, howe you have time to pay attention to this old woman today?"


    As the video call opened, Rong Dai saw Mrs. Huo engaged in her health regimen with a face mask on.


    Mrs. Huo smiled at her with squinted eyes, while two or three other elderlydies were also present, taking care of their well-being.


    "Grandmother, I have been busy with filmingtely. By the time I wake up, you are already asleep. I didn''t want to disturb your rest."


    "When youe back, can I apany you properly? After all, I''m earning money to buy gifts for you, Grandmother."


    Rong Dai could sense the teasing tone in Mrs. Huo''s words, so she immediately coquettishly exined.


    They say old people are like children, and with the elderly, it''s best to be sweet and make them happy.


    After all, how much money could she give to her juniors?


    But that was only the case for normal elderly people.


    "Huo Lao, your daughter-inw has such a sweet mouth! Did she smear it with honey?"


    Even before Mrs. Huo could speak, one of the elderlydies beside her chimed in.


    Mrs. Huoughed blissfully, proudly stating, "Well, you should see who picked her."


    Helpless, Rong Dai smiled and remained silent as the elderlydies chattered away.


    "Alright, I''ll go back to talk to my daughter-inw. You all can do your own thing. Just call me when it''s time to eat."


    Mrs. Huo could tell that Rong Dai had something on her mind when she called at this hour, so she made an excuse and retreated to her room.


    "Grandmother, you have such perceptive eyes!"


    Upon seeing that Mrs. Huo understood her intentions, Rong Dai''s talent for praising others didn''t cease.


    "Is this sweet mouth really coated with honey? Come on, it''ste, and you''re still awake, what do you want to talk to this old woman about?"


    Mrs. Huo nced at her with a touch of annoyance, covered her knees with a small nket, and leaned back on the couch for the video call.


    Rong Dai smiled. Indeed, this was a seasoned elder who had experienced many ups and downs in life, able to see through her intentions at a nce.


    In fact, the main reason Rong Dai video called Mrs. Huo was about the meeting with Huo Shao Ting just now.


    Although she didn''t understand business matters, Mrs. Huo did.


    When Grandfather passed away, it was Mrs. Huo who took on the responsibility and held thepany together. Without her, there wouldn''t be the thriving Huo Enterprises we see today.


    Even if Huo Enterprises still exists, it would be under the personal ownership of Huo Second Master, and it would have no connection to Huo Shao Ting and the others.


    Considering the ambitious nature of Huo Second Master''s family, it''s uncertain whether they would tolerate the presence of Huo Shao Ting and his family in thepany.


    Mrs. Huo had a keen insight into this, so she bravely withstood immense pressure.


    That''s why she is the best person to consult when ites topany matters.


    She doesn''t expect to be able to help Huo Shao Ting herself, as the knowledge she acquired in her previous life holds no value in the business battles here.


    But at the very least, she wants to understand the current situation of thepany, so she won''t bepletely oblivious and only aware of Huo Shao Ting''s hardships.


    With her excellent memory, she carefully shared the details of the meeting with Mrs. Huo.

 Chapter 188: Howard鈥檚 Problem

    <h4>Chapter 188</h4>


    Rong Dai actually did not know how serious the content of this meeting was, but Mrs. Huo could hear it out.


    However, her face was still kind and benevolent as always, without any anxious look that made people feel anxious.


    "Grandma, I swear I didn''t mean to do this on purpose, it''s just...just miss Shaoting a little bit, can''t help but make this request."


    "I see Shaoting is very tired, it seems there are great contradictions in thepany, I don''t know much about these things either, so I wanted to ask grandma."


    After Rong Dai finished speaking, she blinked her eyes and pretended to be innocent.


    After all, she was only twenty-two years old, not thirty-two years old, so she could still pretend to be innocent.


    "It''s no big deal. If you want to know about thepany, I, this olddy, am willing to tell you..."


    Mrs. Huo said.


    She didn''t expect Rong Dai to be a strong woman who could help her grandson deal with thepany''s affairs.


    But this Huo family also needed a young mistress of the house to grasp the heart of this family.


    Huo''s enterprise is indeed very strong now, and it has been developing in recent years, but the internal contradictions are deep-rooted.


    This is not something that can be solved overnight.


    This is a bigpany, not a pot of porridge, where you can just pour it away after a few rat droppings fall in.


    She was clear about thepany''s problems. Huo Shaoting had also been working to deal with them in the years since he took office.


    But with the Huo second master''s family, and the sabotage ofpetitors, while having to maintain thepany''s reputation and interests, it was difficult to deal with these problems.


    This problem was like fish and bear''s paw, you can''t have both.


    There are gains and losses.


    Although Huo Shaoting''s methods were fierce, he also had to consider thepany.


    Those original shareholders were not terrible, but their confidants cultivated within thepany were terrifying.


    Once their interests were really damaged, and they didn''t hesitate to destroy thepany, thepany would suffer.


    This was her husband''s hard work, and it was also the hard work of Huo Shaoting''s father.


    It was thepany that the father and son had painstakingly managed for three generations, of course it could not be destroyed just like that.


    Lu Zheng, her daughter-inw, was a youngdy from a prestigious family, and there was no problem with her being a virtuous helpmate teaching her son.


    As for her granddaughter, who was two years older than her daughter-inw, her temperament was not as stable as Rong Dai''s, so she did not expect her granddaughter to do anything.


    Not to mention her second grandson, whose mind was only on filming.


    At that time, she chose Rong Dai to be her grandson''s daughter-inw.


    First, because of her mother, she had sent people to investigate An Feiya, she just didn''t break some things.


    Second, her eldest grandson''s marriage had really angered her, and when he finally agreed, the candidate was decided.


    Now that Rong Dai wanted to know about these things, she was of course happy to teach her.


    At least between husband and wife, there should be one thing that they canmunicate with each other, otherwise if one speaks and the other asks three questions, they will argue after a few more words, how can such a marriagest long?


    "Grandma, wait a minute."


    As soon as Rong Dai heard this, she immediately lifted the quilt, put on her slippers and went to the study.


    It is said that the poorest memory is better than bad notes.


    She didn''t know much about thepany, but for Shaoting, she needed to learn these things.


    Otherwise, if something was needed in the future, as the wife of the CEO, she was asked questions that she couldn''t answer, wouldn''t that be a joke?


    Mrs. Huo saw her taking notes and did not stop her.


    During this time, she talked with her granddaughter and daughter-inw from time to time. It was a good thing that the rtionship between her eldest grandson and Rong Dai could be improved.


    Of course she also knew about what had happened to Rong Dai in Shenjing during this time.


    But since they wanted to keep it from her, this olddy would cooperate a little, there was no problem.


    Otherwise, if this olddy had to worry about every little thing in this family, how could she live to be so old?


    Grandchildren have their own grandchildren''s blessings.


    This olddy should just eat well, drink well, and have fun.


    Rong Dai remembered very carefully, listening to the olddy talking about thepany''s affairs, she didn''t find it boring at all, on the contrary, she was very interested.


    On some issues, she could ask her own questions and ideas urately, which rather surprised the olddy.


    This was a business mind.


    Unknowingly, the grandmother and granddaughter talked for four or five hours until dawn.


    The olddy''s sister came to call her for dinner, and Rong Dai broke the video call.


    Looking at the thick few pages of notes, although the olddy spoke very calmly, she had seen the intrigue and struggle between the harem and between families.


    The internal contradictions in thepany were not optimistic.


    Although the olddy said on the surface that the problem was not big, she knew best how to read expressions.


    The olddy''s frown, a subtle change in expression, she could guess the other''s mood.


    Obviously the olddy was also very worried about thepany.


    But now thepany was under Huo Shaoting''s management, and since the olddy had let go, she would not interfere again.


    Otherwise, this would be the greatest denial of Shaoting.


    The olddy had good intentions, she could feel the softness of the Huo family.


    Looking at the notebook, Rong Dai''s face was no longer as rxed as before.


    At first, she only knew that Huo Shaoting was not easy and worked very hard.


    Mother-inw, sister-inw and uncle also knew Shaoting''s hard work.


    So they were all very understanding of Shaoting''s difficulty.


    But the only person who knew best how hard and difficult Huo Shaoting was, was still only the olddy.


    Now she also knew clearly.


    She put the notebook in the drawer. Her body felt very tired, but now she was extremely energetic.


    She remembered a sentence on the Inte: All the years of peace and tranquility that you thought were only because someone was carrying the weight and moving forward for you.


    Shaoting was the one who moved forward carrying the weight for them.


    Rong Dai took a deep breath. Although she had been an empress for thirty years in her previous life, after listening to the olddy''s words, a thought shed through her heart.


    In her previous life, she may have fallen out of love with the emperor long ago.


    Otherwise, why did she know that it was not easy to be an emperor, and that it was not easy for the emperor to face those courtiers, yet she repeatedly used the matter of the Imperial Concubine to maliciously provoke him?


    It was just that the love was not deep enough, so she would not consider for him.


    On the other hand, the Imperial Concubine would often bring hot soup and food to apany the emperor when he was reviewing memorialste at night.


    To be fair, after knowing about the Imperial Concubine and the emperor, she had never entered the emperor''s bedroom again.


    Now that she knew about Huo''s enterprise, she was very worried in her heart, and even had many terrible thoughts in her mind.


    Karma leads to consequences, the fate of the Rong mansion in her previous life, the emperor was wrong, but her mistake was the greatest.


    Rong Dai felt very heavy, she looked at the gray sky outside the window. Although it was a very cold winter, she did not feel cold.


    Perhaps with someone in your heart, your heart would feel warm.

 Chapter 189: Wang Xin is Yang Wanwan

    <h4>Chapter 189</h4>


    Rong Dai stood by the window for a very long time, until her feet felt a little numb. She then took a deep breath and nced at the time.


    It was already six o''clock in the morning.


    She turned and went to the kitchen to make breakfast, ate a little by herself.


    Then she went to the side bedroom to take a look at Xiao Wan, who was still fast asleep, and left a note for her on the dining table. After taking a bath and washing up in the bathroom, she got dressed, took the script and went to the set.


    When she arrived at the set, the other crew members were already busy working.


    However, she was the earliest to arrive among the actors.


    "Mrs. Huo is here so early?"


    Seeing Rong Dai arrive at the crew so early, Zhu Li couldn''t help but be a little surprised. She was carefully cleaning the makeup tools.


    Rong Dai smiled slightly and nodded, "I''ve had enough rest these past few days. I wanted toe early to get familiar with the set."


    She sat down and looked at herself in the mirror, smiling at Zhu Li, "It will trouble you again." Then she habitually opened the script in her hand and started reading it.


    Zhu Li looked at her with a deep look in her eyes.


    She had been working with Rong Dai for a few months, and she had never met such an easy-going actress or richdy before.


    Rong Dai was easy-going in the crew. Even if some of the crew members had offended her before, she justughed it off.


    She looked at the makeup brush in her hand, then stuffed it back into the box and took out another set, and started to apply Rong Dai''s makeup ording to the director''s request.


    Rong Dai was reading the script carefully and naturally didn''t notice her subtle move.


    After other actors arrived at the set one after another, Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing both took leave. Rong Dai had fallen behind on several scenes during her days off, so the scenes were temporarily changed to make up Rong Dai''s scenes.


    Rong Dai had a good grasp of the script, and was also willing to learn. She had a total of twelve scenes today, and finished shooting them all by evening.


    Because of Rong Dai, the crew members and other actors were able to get off work early today.


    There was no night shooting tonight either, with the two leads being absent, they couldn''t shoot.


    Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye were also afraid that Rong Dai would work too hard after just starting, so they wrapped up early.


    Rong Dai went to the dressing room to remove her makeup and change into her own clothes.


    It was rare to get off work early today. Last night, she had pondered more about thepany''s affairs, which made her gain a lot of enlightenment.


    She could also face her feelings for the emperor in her previous life more correctly. This drama was all about the female lead''s story.


    If she shot it ording to her pattern with the emperor in her previous life, there wouldn''t be too many big problems, but it would be a bit inconsistent with the female lead''s character setting.


    This was indeed arting from life.


    Last night, she had a feeling of sudden realization. So in the script, she wanted to discuss more with Shaojie and Lu Ye about the character and the script.


    After all, they were family. Xiao Wan was also at home. They would go to her apartment for dinner tonight, and talk about the role and script by the way.


    So after changing into her own clothes, she sat on a cab in the dressing room and nned to take a short nap. Many costumes were hanging on the screen behind her, and no one could see her unless they came close.


    Not long after she closed her eyes, she heard someonee in.


    She was about to speak up and remind that someone was here.


    But the other person seemed to be on a phone call, and the voice... it was makeup artist Zhu Li''s.


    Zhu Li''s face was tense, and she could only hear her say in a lowered voice, "Xiao Wan, it''s really not that I don''t want to help you, this is harming others!"


    "And Mrs. Huo is not like what you said. She is very easy-going..."


    Zhu Li carefully exined, but before she could finish speaking, she was interrupted very fiercely by the person on the phone.


    "Zhu Li! You are ungrateful! Have you forgotten how you begged me back then?! If it wasn''t for me helping you, you would have been yed to death by some boss long ago!"


    "I just asked you to ruin her face. The brush has poison on it, not you putting it there. If the police want to investigate, you canpletely push it away!"


    "There are so many people in the crew. Who knows who did it? A slut like Rong Dai is so hateful, so it''s very normal for someone to want to harm her!"


    It was very quiet in the dressing room. Even without the speakerphone, Rong Dai could hear it loud and clear.


    This voice... wasn''t it the crew member Wang Xin?


    Although she had only heard the other person say a couple sentences, Rong Dai had a strong memory. She wouldn''t mistake the voice.


    "Xiao Wan, I''m very grateful that you helped me before. You can ask me for money or ask me to help you in any way, but you can''t make me harm others!"


    Hearing the other''s unreasonable scolding, Zhu Li felt very tired. But she also owed Xiao Wan a huge favor that she couldn''t ignore.


    Hearing Zhu Li say this, Rong Dai became even more certain of the other''s identity.


    Among the people she had "offended" before, besides Yang Wanwan, no one else had the character "Wan" in their name.


    That was to say, her near drowning was all nned by Yang Wanwan alone!


    Yang Wanwan''s matter had passed months ago. She had been busy shooting and learning these months, and had long forgotten about this person.


    If it wasn''t for the voice she heard tonight, she wouldn''t have remembered this person at all.


    She thought of Wang Xin''s ordinary and in face, very different from Yang Wanwan''s decent looking face.


    But on second thought, the features did look a little simr.


    It was just that at the time, she didn''t look closely. How could she have imagined that an ordinary crew member was the once famous Yang Wanwan!


    Rong Dai''s eyes were deep. She took out her phone to record.


    - Well, her biggest hobby was collecting evidence, then striking with one hit!


    "What do you mean harming people?! She harmed me so badly, I can''t even vent a little anger? Now I can''t even go out the door!"


    Yang Wanwan was furious and yelling hysterically on the phone!


    "Xiao Wan, you... but this time Mrs. Huo almost got killed by you too!"


    Hearing the other''s unreasonable words, Zhu Li felt very tired. But she also owed Yang Wanwan a huge favor that she couldn''t ignore.


    Hearing Zhu Li say this, Rong Dai became even more certain of the other''s identity.


    "Isn''t she still not dead?! That bitch really has a strong life, so many sleeping pills still couldn''t kill her! That bitch!"


    Yang Wanwan cursed her on the phone.


    Except for the coldness, Rong Dai didn''t have any other emotions in her heart.


    She stopped the recording and saved it. At this time, Shaojie called her.


    Rong Dai answered, "Okay, I''m in the dressing room. You and Lu Ye cane over."


    After saying that, she walked out from the inside and turned on the light in the dressing room.


    Her face was calm, her eyes coldly staring at the dumbstruck Zhu Li.


    "Zhu Li, are you listening to me?! Did you hear me?! You must use that brush to put Rong Dai''s makeup on that bitch ording to my order!"


    "This is thest time I''m asking you for help. After this, we''re even! Did you hear me?!"


    Zhu Li''s face was pale and shocked as she looked at Rong Dai who appeared. She was no longer listening to what Yang Wanwan was saying on the phone.

 Chapter 190: Don鈥檛 Test My Patience.

    <h4>Chapter 190</h4>


    "Mrs. Huo, I..."


    Zhu Li''s face was as pale as if it had been stered with white powder, looking extremely ghastly. She stared at Rong Dai with eyes wide open in shock and horror.


    She opened her mouth wanting to exin, but was interrupted by Rong Dai before she could finish speaking.


    "Put it on speakerphone. I''ll talk to her directly."


    Rong Dai said lightly.


    She looked straight into Zhu Li''s eyes, her gaze majestic yet piercing.


    Although her tone was very calm, it carried an inexplicable sense of pressure.


    Zhu Li swallowed hard. Listening to the vicious curses stilling from the phone''s speaker, she could only silently utter three words in her heart: I''m sorry.


    Then she turned on the speakerphone, and Yang Wanwan''s vicious curses instantly filled the entire dressing room.


    Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye had just walked to the door when they heard the vicious curses, and the two were so startled they thought someone was fighting with Rong Dai. They hurriedly rushed in.


    Only to see Rong Dai looking so majestic, cold and piercing.


    She looked so much like Huo Shaoting in this state!


    Their hearts involuntarily shuddered with fear!


    Their gazes then shifted to Zhu Li''s ghastly pale, guilty face.


    Rong Dai had her arms crossed, looking coldly down at the phone screen, answering in an icy tone: "Miss Yang, if cursing me makes you so happy over the phone, why don''t I go see you in person? Please curse me to my face, wouldn''t that be more exciting?"


    Her words cut clearly into Yang Wanwan''s ears.


    Yang Wanwan had been cursing with delight, locked in the shabby rental apartment. When she suddenly heard Rong Dai''s voice, she froze for a few seconds.


    "Zhu Li, you bitch! How dare you sell me out! You will not have a good end!"


    After cursing, she hurriedly hung up the phone!


    "Damn it, damn it, damn it... This won''t do, she will definitelye to settle scores with me! I have to get out of here! I have to leave this ce!"


    Having hung up the phone, Yang Wanwan was extremely panicked, and within just a few seconds, bean-sized beads of sweat had broken out on her forehead due to extreme fear.


    Snap!


    She broke the old flip phone she had secretly stashed, and looking at the phone snapped in half, she was still uneasy. She grabbed the rickety stool and smashed it down forcefully!


    Only after smashing the phone to smithereens did she finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Open the door! Let me out! I want to see Yang Yue!"


    After smashing the phone, Yang Wanwan was still afraid and panicked. She had exposed her location, and if Huo Shaoting found out...


    She would definitely be caught and brought back!


    She didn''t want to end up in jail like Wen Shi Lan!


    She still wanted to be a star!


    Hearing Yang Wanwan banging on the door, none of the tenants living there were willing to pay any attention to her, some even yelled at her to shut up!


    And the two bodyguards stationed outside the rental apartment, seeing that Yang Wanwan could not get out, simply continued ying games on their phones.


    While Yang Wanwan was panicking with fear, Zhu Li was no less so.


    "Mrs. Huo, please let me exin..."


    Not only was Zhu Li''s face ghastly pale, she was on the verge of tears.


    She was very clear that she had offended someone she could not afford to offend.


    Not only Rong Dai, even Huo Shaojie''s and Lu Ye''s faces were very cold.


    Who could have imagined that the seemingly ordinary Wang Xin turned out to be the once illustrious star Yang Wanwan?


    Rong Dai took out her phone, pulled over a chair to sit down, and also motioned for Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye to sit.


    She looked straight at Zhu Li and said, "I know you didn''t intend me harm, but I''m no bodhisattva either. You saw how dangerous things were for me tonight."


    "As for what rtionship you have with Miss Yang, what favor she has over you, what made you want to make a move against me..."


    "You haven''t actually done anything yet, so I can let it slide and won''t hold you ountable."


    "Really... really?"


    With tears welling up in her eyes, Zhu Li looked at Rong Dai in shock and slight disbelief.


    Rong Dai nodded, leaning back in her chair. Her eyes were very beautiful, but authoritative, putting psychological pressure on people.


    Especially with her unsmiling, aloof and stern demeanor.


    "Of course, this is conditional on you telling me everything you know. If necessary, you''ll have to testify."


    Rong Dai added.


    There''s no such thing as a free lunch in this world. Everyone has to pay the price for their actions.


    Zhu Li had approached her with ulterior motives from the start. She was just very smart and didn''t make a move too quickly.


    It was also because of thest shred of conscience she had left that ended up saving herself. Otherwise, things would not have been so simple today.


    So the only one who could redeem herself was Zhu Li herself.


    Zhu Li''s face was ghastly pale. She stared nkly at Rong Dai for a few seconds.


    If she did that, wouldn''t it be equivalent to selling Xiaowen out?


    Xiaowen had helped her before...


    But if she didn''t speak, they already knew the truth about what happened tonight.


    With the Huo n''s power and influence, they would definitely be able to investigate and find out.


    Zhu Li was caught in a dilemma.


    "Zhu Li, you need to be clear that you''re harboring a criminal now. If it''s confirmed that Wang Xin is Yang Wanwan, then attempted murder charges can be filed against her.


    "By shielding her, you can be charged as an essory. You''d better weigh things carefully in your heart."


    Lu Ye said in a deep voice.


    None of them had expected that a Yang Wanwan could cause such a big storm, and had almost seeded in killing Rong Dai.


    Fortunately Rong Dai had narrowly escaped death.


    Otherwise, not only would the movie project be ruined, everyone from the Huo, Lu and Huo families would be enemies.


    That was unthinkable to them.


    They could clearly see how much Huo Shaoting treasured this sister-inw.


    Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye exchanged nces, realizing they werepletely superfluous here. Rong Dai could handle this alone.


    The two were also extremely desperate in their hearts.


    Just one Huo Shaoting had already given them massive headaches.


    And now Huo Shaoting had married a wife who they initially thought was a good girl.


    But now at first sight, her true nature was exposed.


    She was clearly a chip off the old block of Huo Shaoting!


    Look at the way she handled things,pletely identical to Huo Shaoting!


    Not making a move was one thing, but once she did, it rendered people powerless to resist.


    "I... I''m telling you, as long as Mrs. Huo promises to spare me, I''ll say everything I know. I have two children to raise, I... I really don''t want to go to jail."


    Zhu Li was extremely desperate.


    But unlike Yang Wanwan, she didn''t hate Rong Dai. She knew clearly that this was not Rong Dai''s fault.


    The fact that Rong Dai was still willing to give her a chance toe clean, was already showing great leniency.


    Otherwise, Rong Dai could have simply called the police just now toe and process things, and Zhu Li would have been unable to escape the essory charges no matter what.

 Chapter 191: She鈥檚 Different

    <h4>Chapter 191</h4>


    "That depends on whether what you''re saying is true or not," Rong Dai said as she looked at her.


    Her face was very cold, and her beautiful phoenix eyes were sharp.


    Zhu Li didn''t dare look into her eyes. She lowered her head and nodded, her legs going soft as she slowly got up from the floor and sat down on the chair.


    Rong Dai took out her phone and turned on the video recording function.


    "Ms. Zhu, you need to make sure everything you say is true and voluntary."


    Having lived an entire lifetime before, she was very clear on the importance of evidence.


    Yang Wanwan had nearly taken her life.


    Although Zhu Li hadn''t managed to do anything to her yet, she still didn''t dare to blindly trust her.


    What if when it came time for Zhu Li to testify, she went back on her word and used Rong Dai of coercing her confession?


    Although she didn''t want to think so sinisterly of others, her experiences in her past life were just too much.


    She had seen far too many dirty tactics and so had to be cautious.


    Yang Wanwan had already hurt her once before.


    She was no merciful bodhisattva who could still act tolerant and magnanimous after being harmed by others.


    She was just an ordinary person without that kind of heart.


    "I''m willing," Zhu Li said very cleverly. She understood what Rong Dai meant by asking her this, so she nodded in response.


    "Then please go ahead," Rong Dai nodded. Seeing that Zhu Li was cooperating, she also breathed a small sigh of relief.


    After all, Yang Wanwan was basically just wearing a different face now. Who could guarantee she wouldn''t swap out the "Wang Xin" face for yet another?


    Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye stood by and watched as Rong Dai calmly and unhurriedly questioned Zhu Li. The two men tacitly did not interrupt.


    This Huo Shaoting really had a vicious eye.


    Many girls Rong Dai''s age who went through something like this would likely be scared out of their wits.


    Yet Rong Dai was able to handle it so calmly, gathering evidence and catching the other side off guard.


    Zhu Li told Rong Dai everything she knew in full detail, including how she hade to be Rong Dai''s makeup artist.


    "...Mrs. Huo, I know what I did was wrong."


    "But when I was at my most difficult time, it was little Wanwan who helped me, so I have to repay this kindness."


    "I''m very sorry for the trouble this has caused you, but regarding Wanwan''s matters, this is all she told me."


    "I only found out recently, in thest few days, that she had gone for cosmetic surgery ande back."


    "That night you fell into the water, Wanwan only called me in the middle of the night."


    "Ever since thest productunch ceremony, she disappeared for several months and all her contact information was gone."


    "I know she has a strong vindictive streak, so after what happened to you Mrs. Huo, I didn''t leave either because I was worried she woulde back looking for you."


    "With me by your side, maybe I could stop her. I really don''t want to see her go down this road of no return..."


    Zhu Li spoke earnestly and helplessly.


    Rong Dai kept her eyes on her phone''s video recording. Seeing that Zhu Li had nothing more to add, she nced up at the other woman, "Ms. Zhu, do you have anything else you''d like to supplement?"


    "No," Zhu Li shook her head.


    Rong Dai saved the video and put her phone away. She stood up and looked at Zhu Li, "Ms. Zhu, although I''m very grateful for your cooperation, you probably can''t keep working by my side in this position."


    She wasn''t kindhearted enough to keep a ticking time bomb by her side.


    Although resigned, Zhu Li still nodded, "That''s only right."


    Even if Rong Dai allowed her to stay on and keep working, she wouldn''t have the face to remain anyway.


    "I''ll hand this video over to the police. I hope you can leave me an address and phone number to pass on to them."


    "There''s a chance this could negatively impact your career if the police make the matter public."


    "Given Ms. Zhu''s candidness, and out of humanitarianism, if you suffer any hassle for testifying about Ms. Yang''s attempted murder of me, I''m willing to providepensation to tide you over during potential unemployment."


    "This should be able to temporarily alleviate your predicament if you do end up losing your job. What do you think?"


    Rong Dai had her hands in her down jacket pockets. Her phone was still recording.


    She understood how hard it was for women. No matter Zhu Li''s reasons for helping Yang Wanwan, those were her private affairs.


    But Zhu Li was willing to provide this testimony, even though that was just her duty as an upstanding citizen.


    Knowing that this testimony and recording would be public, she was still willing to help Rong Dai.


    So Rong Dai would not ruthlessly get rid of her or put her behind bars either.


    Zhu Li was stunned for a moment, looking at Rong Dai with aplex, astonished expression.


    She really could not understand this young girl who looked like she hadn''t even graduated university yet.


    In the few months on set, Rong Dai did not strive for anything. She would just do her own job and not politick or form cliques.


    It could be said she had a very gentle temperament, at least up until tonight, that was what Zhu Li thought.


    But after witnessing Rong Dai tonight, she finally realized that this girl who looked harmless and gentle actually had formidable wrists and intellect beyond ordinary people.


    No wonder she could be the prestigious wife of the Huo Group''s president.


    This testimony was something she was willing to provide.


    Although not part of the entertainment industry herself, she worked within it.


    Even if only a small makeup artist, she still heard all the gossip in this circle daily.


    She had seen all kinds of dirty tactics.


    In the end, Yang Wanwan was just another sacrificialmb.


    Even without that recording, she wouldn''t have gone back on her word.


    But Rong Dai still insisted on saying all this. So even if Zhu Li wanted to renege in the future, remembering Rong Dai''s words, she would not be able to do it.


    "Rong Dai, you really are so different, you...are so warm and kind."


    After getting the matter off her chest, Zhu Li felt much more rxed.


    She also dared to meet Rong Dai''s eyes directly, giving her a faint smile as she said this one line, then wrote down her address and contact details for Rong Dai.


    "Thank you for giving me a chance at redemption. I almost...made a mistake."


    Zhu Li bowed deeply to Rong Dai, sincerely thanking her.


    If Rong Dai had left tonight, under Wanwan''s coercion she might not have been able to withstand the pressure and really gone and harmed Rong Dai per her orders.


    That way, not only would she be ruined, but her family and child would be done for too.


    Rong Dai nced at the slip of paper in her hand, looking at Zhu Li impassively, "There''s no need to thank me. You saved yourself."


    Zhu Li didn''t say anything more. After tidying up her things, she left the makeup room.


    With this matter causing such a ruckus, Rong Dai no longer felt like cooking either. She went with Huo Shaojie and Lu Ye to the restaurant for a meal instead.


    "Sis-inw, for this matter...how do you n to handle it?" Lu Ye tentatively asked her after they got a private room at the restaurant.


    Rong Dai took out her mobile phone, then opened up the audio and video recordings she had made and handed it to him, "For things like this, it''s best to leave it to the professionals."

 Chapter 192: Give Her a Way Out

    <h4>Chapter 192</h4>


    Lu Ye nodded and sent a copy of the video and audio recordings to his own mobile phone, and then forwarded it to Lu Hong.


    Rong Dai drank a sip of tea and looked at the colorful dishes in front of her, but had no appetite at all.


    "Sister-inw, don''t me yourself for this matter. It''s not your fault in the first ce."


    Huo ShaoJIe saw her distraught and hurried tofort her.


    "I''m fine. It''s over now. Don''t tell Mei Shu about Zhu Li''s matter. Zhu Li was brought here by her. She will be upset if she knows."


    "Let Lu Police Officer deal with this matter. Try not to let the media report it. It won''t do any good if it gets sensationalizedter."


    After pondering for a few seconds, Rong Dai gently instructed the two.


    She didn''t want to harm anyone, but she didn''t want to be harmed either.


    Yang Wanwan, Wen Shi Lan and Zuo Ran would all have to pay the price for their own mistakes.


    This was only natural.


    This incident didn''t have to happen in the first ce.


    If Yang Wanwan hadn''t beente that day, she could have dealt with her own problems properly, and wouldn''t have wanted to target her.


    Miss Yang''s means of gaining power were despicable and contemptible.


    But as long as she still had that halo around her, she could live better than ordinary people.


    But that resentment and greed had ruined her.


    Although the hot search about Yang Wanwan''s matter on the inte had been taken down, tonight''s incident also made Rong Dai reflect on herself.


    In this era of rapid development, fresh events happened every day.


    She couldn''t shut those loose mouths up, after all, there was freedom of speech.


    Since she first arrived, she had been on the hot search rankings on the inte three times.


    The verbal violence online was really terrifying.


    Yang Wanwan was indeed hateful, but everything on the inte had pushed her to the brinkpletely.


    "You all eat. I''ll treat tonight. I''m going back first."


    Looking at the food on the table, Rong Dai felt very heavy-hearted.


    Yang Wanwan would be what she was today. Although she knew it wasn''t her fault, she still felt horror and chill.


    The feeling of powerlessness and suffocation when she had drowned in the pond lingered over her. That feeling had left an indelible impression on her.


    "Sister-inw, let me take you back."


    Huo ShaoJIe stood up, worried that something might happen to Rong Dai on her way back alone.


    "No need. It''s just a short walk. I can walk back by myself."


    Rong Dai shook her head. The heaviness in her heart was like a big rock pressing on her heart.


    Lu Ye held back Huo ShaoJIe and shook his head.


    Rong Dai was a very perceptive woman. She knew what was going on with herself.


    This incident must also have made her realize something. She needed some time alone to calm down.


    After Rong Dai left the restaurant, she clutched her handbag and walked out into the extremely cold night of the film and television city, even though the thin snowfall of the past few days had melted.


    She wrapped herself tightly in her down jacket, watching the busy traffic, and walked towards her apartment alone.


    She felt very depressed.


    She could probably empathize with Yang Wanwan''s state of mind.


    Trapped in desperation, alive but feeling dead.


    In her previous life, during those ten years in the Cold Pce, she had felt the same.


    Being alive was the greatest punishment for her. She didn''t even dare die.


    "I should let Uncle Huo know about this. Rong Dai''s mood is not right. She was still doing very well shooting today until Zhu Li talked about those things and she became very upset."


    After Rong Dai left, Lu Ye took a bite of the braised beef and frowned as he said this.


    Huo ShaoJIe nodded, took out his mobile phone and sent Huo Shao Ting a message, of course also sending him a copy of the audio and video recordings.


    As Rong Dai walked alone, she saw a bench by the roadside and sat down. Next to her sat a sanitation worker auntie eating hot steamed buns.


    "Youngdy, why are you sitting here in such cold weather? Hurry home, it''s not safe at night."


    Seeing Rong Dai sitting alone on the bench in the cold weather, the sanitation worker auntie kindly reminded her.


    Rong Dai turned to look at her and gave her a faint smile. "I just want to sit for a while."


    The sanitation worker auntie looked at her for a moment, then took out a bottle of hot soy milk from a white stic bag and handed it to her, "You look unwell. Did something happen at work? Drink something sweet to lift your mood."


    Rong Dai stared at the soy milk for a few seconds. The sanitation worker auntie looked amiable with her wind-chapped red face.


    "Thank you."


    She epted it, but only held it in her hand.


    The sanitation worker auntie gestured to offer her a steamed bun, but Rong Dai shook her head.


    "Youngdy, don''t be disheartened! It''s normal to feel frustrated at work sometimes. That''s life - full of bitterness and tiredness. But after the bitteres the sweet!"


    "Alright, sit for a while then hurry home! It''s not safe for a youngdy like you to be out alone at night. Go home early, take a hot bath and get some sleep. The sun will still rise tomorrow."


    After seeing that she was unwilling to say more, the sanitation worker auntie finished her buns in a few bites, put on her face mask, gave her some advice and went back to work.


    Rong Dai looked at the warm soy milk in her hand, poked a straw in and took a sip, then got up and headed home.


    Yang Wanwan''s matter made her realize a lot of things.


    She had thought that with her experience from her previous life, she could handle many things well.


    But looking back from when she first arrived in this world until now, she had already experienced quite a few things.


    She thought she could view everything with detachment.


    But some matters would not gently respond to her goodwill to reconcile.


    Although the sanitation worker auntie was a stranger, she was willing to share her warmth. Perhaps there were some things she really should let go, and learn to live well here instead of just surviving.


    When Rong Dai got home, she received a call from Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting."


    "Feeling down? Still haven''t rested well?"


    Sitting in his office looking through documents, Huo Shao Ting gently asked her.


    Leaning against the door, looking at the warm yellowmplight in the room, a smile spread across Rong Dai''s face, and the heaviness in her heart dissipated invisibly.


    "It''s nothing, just some thoughts."


    She answered him softly. Uncle Huo must have told him about what happened earlier.


    "Shao Ting, if possible, give her a way out."


    She was silent for a few seconds before speaking.


    Having seen so many bloody and dirty means in her previous life, in dealing with Zuo Ran and Wen Shi Lan, their endings seemed deserved in her eyes.


    If the roots were not eliminated, the spring breeze would revive them - she understood that principle.


    She had done such things in her previous life too.


    She didn''t really have a merciful heart, but she could choose. Yang Wanwan didn''t have a choice, just like her previous self.


    She didn''t have a choice during those ten years in the Cold Pce.


    If the imperial harem and His Majesty had given her a ray of sunshine back then, perhaps she wouldn''t have endured those ten years of torment until her heart and mind gave out and she died.


    She had personally experienced the pain and despair of being trapped in desperation.

 Chapter 193: Her Story

    <h4>Chapter 193</h4>


    When she heard these words, Huo Shao Ting''s eyebrows frowned slightly as he gestured for Assistant Zhang to go out first.


    "Shao Ting, do you have time now?"


    Rong Dai changed her shoes and went into the room to check that the little sister had already gone back.


    She went to the kitchen to pour herself a ss of red wine and took a light sip. The slight sourness was followed by wisps of fruity aroma between her teeth and lips.


    "I have time. Drink less when I''m not by your side."


    Huo Shao Ting answered her. Hearing her pouring wine, his voice gently advised her.


    He was very nervous. He had listened to the recording and seen the video too.


    Rong Dai was his wife. This time, Yang Wanwan had provoked his reverse scales, so he could not possibly let her live.


    Yet Rong Dai did not object at all to what happened with Zuo Ran and Wen Shi Lan previously. What was different this time?


    A faint smile appeared at the corner of Rong Dai''s lips as shezily curled up on the sofa with a nket over herp after turning off all the lights in the room.


    "Shao Ting, it''s not that I''m being merciful. I want to let go of my past self. There are some things that I really should let go of now."


    Her voice was very calm but full of vicissitudes.


    On the other end of the phone, Huo Shao Ting pursed his lips tightly, nced at the time on his watch, then quickly wrote a line on the document and beckoned Assistant Zhang toe in.


    Assistant Zhang hurriedly came in to take the document. Seeing the words written on it, he couldn''t help but twitch inwardly but didn''t dare say anything. He hurried off to book ne tickets.


    "Shao Ting, I want to let it go."


    Rong Dai''s voice sounded a little low.


    Yang Wanwan''s desperate counterattack had almost drowned her in the pond.


    She remembered all this very clearly.


    The testimonies from Zhu Li were like a pair of hands strangling her throat, making it a little hard for her to breathe.


    In the dressing room, she had thought about how to make sure Zhu Li wouldn''t change her testimony and how to make sure Yang Wanwan would get what she deserved.


    It was only right that Yang Wanwan should die for trying to murder her.


    But when she thought of Yang Wanwan''s voice screaming desperately over the phone and her vicious cursing, Rong Dai felt a little disoriented. She thought of those imperial concubines from her past life who died in the cold pce like her.


    They had harmed others and deserved to die.


    But she had also stained her hands with others'' blood when shenguished and died from heartbreak as the dignified empress of a nation.


    Although Huo Shao Ting had guessed her identity, she had never admitted anything about her past life.


    She was avoiding it, because she couldn''t let go and couldn''t face it.


    But tonight''s events made her realize that she really should let go now.


    She had always thought she was trying to survive here in the best and most proper way, whether towards Huo Shao Ting or the Huo family.


    Yet she had always held back a part of herself.


    With Yang Wanwan''s current fate, it was indeed what she deserved.


    Rong Dai had given her a chance, but she didn''t cherish it.


    But now that she thought about it carefully, wasn''t it also Heaven''s grace that allowed her to be reborn in this afterlife?


    She had always been cautiously, fearfully and anxiously trying her best here, for fear that this was Heaven''s punishment.


    How was this any different from Yang Wanwan''s current desperate counterattack?


    Because of fear, because of being afraid that disappointment would exceed expectations, she didn''t dare to hope.


    She had just been unable to let go of herself all this while.


    Even if she stated her identity aloud, how many people would actually believe her?


    The bizarre things in this world were endless, she was merely one among them.


    "Shao Ting, I want to tell you about myself."


    She took a sip of red wine and found afortable position to lie in before speaking.


    Hearing her say this, Huo Shao Ting''s slightly furrowed brows rxed. His voice was gentle as he said, "Don''t force yourself, it''s fine if I don''t know..."


    But he was interrupted by Rong Dai before he could finish speaking.


    "Shao Ting, it matters to me."


    "All this while, I was the one who couldn''t let go. I couldn''t forgive myself. I was avoiding it. I just wanted to hide in that shell and note out, so that no one could hurt me."


    "But I don''t want to be like Yang Wanwan, pushing myself into a desperate situation until I destroy myself one day."


    She took a deep breath and looked at the lights outside the window in the night. Her heart was exceptionally calm.


    Yang Wanwan had pushed herself into a desperate situation. While there were external factors, she had not spared herself, which led to her downfall.


    The ten years she spent suffering in the cold pce in her past life were her punishment of herself.


    She needed warmth, a new beginning and a new life.


    She had people around her who were warm, and she wanted to be a warm person too.


    "That would... also destroy you."


    Huo Shao Ting was silent for a few seconds. "I will listen with care, as long as you''re willing to say it. But don''t force yourself."


    He was very happy that she could have this reconciliation with herself.


    But at the same time, he was also very worried that if she pushed herself too hard, it would make her feel awful.


    "I''m not forcing myself. I just want to tell you, to talk about those things. I''ve always had a mental block. We''re husband and wife."


    "You''re trying your best to be a good husband. I also want... to try my best to be a good wife to you."


    Rong Dai exined with a faint smile.


    She took another sip of wine, closed her eyes, and ced the phone on her chest. After taking a few deep breaths, the memories from her past life floated up in her mind.


    The details, which she thought would have faded, were actually surprisingly clear in her memory.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t interrupt her and just listened quietly, asionally giving her a soft murmur to indicate he was listening.


    Rong Dai rambled on about how she met and got to know the Emperor, going from an imperial concubine to Empress.


    Then vying with wit and strategy against those other concubines, the rise and fall of her n.


    Until thosest ten years when shenguished in the cold pce before finally dying from heartbreak, and appearing in the hospital room in this afterlife.


    She recounted everything in great detail.


    In the story, there were people who harmed her, and people she had harmed. She didn''t avoid anything, and told it allpletely.


    "Shao Ting, all this while, I believed this was Heaven punishing me, because nothing could be more painful than being alive."


    "But I forgot that being alive is also the most beautiful thing."


    "With how things were handled with Wen Shi Lan and Zuo Ran previously, I didn''t feel much emotional impact. I only felt that they harmed me, so this was the fate they deserved."


    "In the past, I always said those concubines who used despicable means topete for favor were cold-blooded and heartless, using others'' blood to warm themselves."


    "But Wen Shi Lan and Zuo Ran, while they deserved to die, I was also cold-blooded and heartless enough that I had unknowingly be the same as them."


    Rong Dai opened her eyes and looked up at the pitch ck ceiling.


    The boulder that had been pressing down on her heart all this while disappeared, and she felt extremely relieved.


    "Zhu Li said I was warm and kind. Did you know that? It had been a very long time since Ist heard those words."


    "Those words made me realize that I was still living here with my old self from the past, not truly living."


    "Shao Ting, I want to let go now, to truly live, together with you."


    Rong Dai picked up her phone and ced a hand on her chest, speaking sincerely.

 Chapter 194: Live a More Inclusive Life

    <h4>Chapter 194</h4>


    ��Shao Ting, I also want to be a warm person.��


    Her voice was calm, but much more rxed than before.


    Huo Shao Ting heard her voice and gripped his phone tightly.


    He regretted not being by her side now, otherwise he could have given her a hug.


    "Shao Ting, are you scared?"


    Not getting a response from Huo Shao Ting, Rong Dai''s heart that had just lost its heavy stone couldn''t help but be uneasy again.


    "My wife, I''m here."


    He answered in a light voice, and the narrowed, deep eyes flickered with gentle light.


    "From now on, with me here, I will take care of the rest of your life."


    He gently answered her.


    Her gentleness, her kindness.


    He saw it all clearly.


    Her thoughtfulness, her sincerity.


    He could feel it.


    Such a warm her, he would not let her feel cold.


    "Mm..."


    Rong Dai responded to him with a sound, a shallow smile appearing on her charming cheeks in the darkness.


    "Rest early, we''ll spend the new year together this year."


    Huo Shao Ting nced at the time, seeing Assistant Zhang hinting about his flight time, he had to hang up early.


    Looking at the ck phone screen, Rong Dai got up with a wine ss and went to the bedroom to sleep.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect that she could let go of her troubles so quickly either, perhaps it was because she was relieved, or perhaps because of the wine.


    That night, Rong Dai slept very deeply.


    In her dreams, she was still the carefree girl, with parents and sister alive.


    They smiled at her, urging her to live well.


    When she woke up in the morning, the winter sun had quietly spilled in through the cracks in the curtains.


    The golden sunshine, warm and dazzling.


    Rong Dai looked at the ray of sunlight for a long time, a smile appearing at the corner of her mouth. Last night''s dream was so real.


    Perhaps, her parents and sister in her previous life were also living somewhere else, just like her now.


    Her parents and sister''s greatest wish was for her to live happily.


    She thought she would try her best to do so.


    "I drankst night, I''ll drink some porridge first to sober up. I got you a day off today, we''ll go somewhere togetherter."


    Huo Shao Ting came in with hot porridge and hot milk.


    "Shao Ting...you''re here?"


    Rong Dai looked at him in surprise.


    "Wanting to be by your side, I wasn''t by your side before, unable to take care of you. But now you''re by my side, you''re my woman, my wife, I will take good care of you, cherish you."


    Thinking of the things she saidst night, although she spoke very calmly, as a man even he was startled.


    He hadn''t watched pce dramas, but even if he hadn''t eaten pork he''d seen pigs run, so he knew a little something.


    He felt heartache for her past, he would use his lifetime to take good care of her.


    Rong Dai''s heart felt warm, her nose couldn''t help but sour.


    The gloom in her heart suddenly had sunlight shining in, just like these rays of morning light.


    She sat up and took the initiative to hug Huo Shao Ting''s waist, resting her head on his chest: "Mr. Huo, please be tolerant for the rest of my life."


    She was able to let go of this knot, not only because Yang Wanwan had moved her, but more because of Huo Shao Ting''s warmth.


    It was him who had warmed her.


    "Mm, Madam Huo, just don''t be too mischievous."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly as he held her, his broad palm stroking her hair.


    Rong Dai immediatelyughed out loud: "I''m not a child."


    "Madam Huo, you''re twenty-two this year, to me, I''ll allow you to act like a child."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her seriously, smiling gently and brightly.


    Rong Dai felt warm and fuzzy inside, she didn''t say anything cheesy, and obediently ate the breakfast he had prepared.


    After breakfast, she got up slowly to wash up, while Huo Shao Ting went to pack things.


    "Where are we going?"


    Rong Dai put on a double-faced wool coat from the wardrobe while asking him.


    "Wear this."


    Huo Shao Ting handed her a thick down jacket, frowning and urging her to wear it.


    Although the down jacket was warm, Rong Dai hated how it made her look like a stuffed bun when she put it on. Her 175cm tall figure looked like a zongzi glutinous rice dumpling.


    "No."


    She shook her head and refused.


    Huo Shao Ting could only put away the down jacket and lead her out of the apartment: "A temple in Hangzhou, let''s go fulfill your previous life''s wishes together."


    "I don''t know if there will be an afterlife, but in this life, you''re my wife, I will protect you well."


    "Rong Dai, I also want to be warm with you, we will live well."


    He held her hand tightly, speaking word for word, very seriously.


    Rong Dai looked at his windswept hair, looked at his back, her heart felt filled up like a solid ball.


    "Well, we will."


    She nodded, and the couple got in the car.


    "This should have been given to you long ago, now it''s perfectly returned to its rightful owner."


    Once in the car, Huo Shao Ting handed her the redwood box containing the ink jade he had photographed.


    He didn''t know this ink jade was hering-of-age gift, no wonder she was so emotional when she first saw this ink jade.


    Rong Dai opened the redwood box and reached out to caress the lustrous ink jade.


    In addition to calmness in her heart, there was more warmth.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    She turned to thank him as he drove.


    Back then, he had such a terrible rtionship with the original host, but he still agreed.


    She knew that although 100 million was not a big sum for him, for ordinary people, it was an astronomical figure.


    She was grateful that he had treated her gently from the start.


    The couple went to a famous temple in Hangzhou. Even in such bone-chilling winter, there were still many pilgrims to this temple, and incense was flourishing.


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand as the couple worshipped and lit incense.


    "Can we meet the abbot? My wife has some things that may need the abbot''s help."


    Although Huo Shao Ting was not wearing a suit today, his extraordinary temperament was evident. The monk next to them eyed the couple for a few seconds, then gave them directions.


    "The abbot is meditating in the mountains. If you two are fated, you will naturally meet."


    "Thank you, master."


    Rong Dai nodded. She was Buddhist. After all, those decades in the pce, she had to find some spiritualfort.


    After leaving the main hall, the couple strolled around the temple.


    As for whether they could meet the abbot, Rong Dai didn''t really care.


    Huo Shao Ting''s thoughtfulness, she could feel it.


    And she had already let go.


    "Shao Ting, let''s go back. The snow scenery of Hangzhou''s West Lake is great, I want to go see it."


    Rong Dai''s cheeks were flushed red by the cold wind. The couple had been walking for an hour but still hadn''t seen the abbot.


    She was sweating all over instead, and stopped to blink her watery eyes at Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned slightly, nced around, and saw an elder monk sitting in a pavilion up ahead: "Over there."

 Chapter 195: To Pay the Price

    <h4>Chapter 195</h4>


    Rong Dai had no choice but to go with him to the pavilion.


    Because of Yang Wanwan''s story, she was deeply moved and willing to let go of the past.


    She had opened up to him about those thingsst night.


    She thought he would be scared or at least feel somewhat difficult to ept.


    But she didn''t expect this man to be extremely gentle and considerate.


    He not only epted her but also understood her and was even more concerned about her troubles than she was.


    The couple walked up to White Beard Master and politely greeted him.


    "Esteemed donors, please sit down. This poor monk has been waiting here for a long time," White Beard Master opened his eyes and gestured for them to sit down.


    Rong Dai was not surprised by this kind of thing. Even an ancient empress like her could be reborn in this modern world, so it was understandable that there would be one or two ascended masters in this world.


    "Esteemeddy donor, you havee a few months earlier than this poor monk divined. It seems you have let go. The donor is fortunate," the old monk spoke gently, but his words made the couple very shocked.


    "Master, what do you mean by that? Does it mean something will happen to my wife?" Hearing the master''s words, Huo Shao Ting''s expression immediately turned cold and he asked with a frown.


    Ever since he learned of her identity, what he worried about most every day was that one day she would open her eyes and no longer be herself.


    This kind of fear that prated to the depths of his soul, even when Huoshi Enterprise was on the verge of bankruptcy, he had never felt so anxious and terrified before.


    He knew very clearly that he could not lose Rong Dai.


    He needed her very much.


    Rong Dai was clever too, of course she understood the implications behind the old monk''s words.


    Her mood was the same as Huo Shao Ting''s, she was also very terrified that one day she would wake up and with the blink of an eye, she would be back in that cold pce.


    That pce was the dreand of her previous life.


    Here, she also had her own new guardian.


    But if this really happened, she understood very well that neither she nor Huo Shao Ting could reverse it.


    Even the advanced science of this modern world could not yet unravel this kind of thing.


    If she really went back to her previous life, she could not imagine how she would spend the rest of her life,


    or what Huo Shao Ting would be.


    The couple held each other''s hands tightly, fully understanding each other''s feelings.


    A benevolent smile appeared on the old monk''s face, his gaze falling on Rong Dai, "To stay or leave, that was up to you in the first ce."


    "The fact that you two havee together means, esteemeddy donor, that you have let go. The past cannot be pursued, only cherishing leads to no regret."


    The old monk spoke cryptically. The couple found it somewhat confusing.


    "Please enlighten us, Master," Rong Dai said. Although she understood the general meaning behind the master''s words, she felt relieved in her heart.


    But she still felt that the master had more to say.


    "There is cause and effect, karma of past lives and affinity in this life. Buddhism emphasizes cause and effect, but this poor monk believes everythinges at a price," the old monk said slowly.


    "Although the donor has let go, the karma has still not been fully repaid. You may lose some precious things aspensation."


    "This rope of blessings was prepared by this poor monk for thedy donor. Whether it can resolve this karma depends on your fortunes," the old monk finished speaking and closed his eyes again as if sleeping.


    Huo Shao Ting wanted to ask more but Rong Dai gently shook her head at him.


    She picked up an ordinary looking braided rope of blessing that the master had ced on the stone table. She slightly bowed her head in thanks, "Thank you for your guidance, Master."


    In her previous life, her mother was a devout Buddhist. She went to the temple to worship every month. Rong Dai had also seen some attained high monks, or great masters as themoners called them.


    Although there were also some chatan old frauds, these attained masters generally did not say much, just pointing the way, leaving the rest for the other party toprehend themselves.


    After all, ording to some folk stories, these attained masters guided sentient beings, but it also came at a price.


    Saying too much would be divulging heavenly secrets, which would incur heavenly punishment.


    When she was still a young maiden, she did not believe in these things.


    Butter she had no choice but to believe, as she prayed to Buddha, seeking forgiveness.


    In this modern world, probably no young girl would believe in these things like she did, but she had experienced all kinds of things in her previous life. Some things had already prated deeply into her soul.


    "Shao Ting, let''s go," Rong Dai held his hand.


    Since she didn''t know what price the master was talking about, as long as she wouldn''t go back to that cold pce, as long as she could be with Huo Shao Ting.


    She thought she could bravely face it all.


    Huo Shao Ting was also afraid she would overthink things. He nodded and held her hand as they left the temple together.


    "Let''s go eat first, we''ll go back early tomorrow morning."


    Huo Shao Ting took her to a restaurant for a meal. Seeing that she was still lost in thought, he reached out and pulled her into his embrace. "I''m here no matter what. Whatever the price, I''m by your side, facing it together with you."


    Rong Dai leaned against his chest, looking up at him with a faint smile, "Okay."


    He loved and cared for her so seriously and gently, how could she bear to disappoint him?


    Seeing her in his arms like this, Huo Shao Ting looked at her with such gentle eyes they seemed to be dripping water. He couldn''t help but lower his head to kiss her lips.


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly turned red. She red at him indignantly and struggled out of his embrace.


    "Weren''t we going to eat?"


    This guy would be intimate at the slightest opportunity.


    At home it was fine since it was just the two of them and no one could see.


    She was also gradually epting his way of expressing himself.


    But they were in a restaurant right now!


    Seeing her shy annoyance, Huo Shao Ting looked at her with eyes so gentle they seemed they could squeeze water out. Words of love flowed naturally from his lips, "My wife is the most delicious."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Her cheeks flushed hotly. She could only pretend not to hear.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t want to tease her and make her hungry. They ate their meal peacefully and quietly. Then he drove and took her to see the snow scenery of West Lake.


    "So many people..." Seeing the crowded flow of people on the broken bridge, a ck mass, Rong Dai was a little dumbfounded.


    She had seen the snow scenery of West Lake in her previous life, but it was far less beautiful than the pictures shown onputers in this modern world.


    Seeing so many people on the broken bridge, Rong Dai wanted to leave.


    Although she liked liveliness, that was limited to at home. It was different outside.


    Huo Shao Ting also didn''t expect so many people at West Lake, even in winter.


    Coming here was really a mistake.


    "Let''s go drink tea instead. There''s still plenty of time. I want to go shopping, buy some embroidery cloth. Suzhou silks are unmatched. I have time now so it''s perfect."


    Rong Dai looked at him brightly, not needing to pretend in front of him.


    "Okay."


    Huo Shao Ting stroked her head, gazing at her indulgently and gently.

 Chapter 196: I鈥檒l Make Good Money

    <h4>Chapter 196</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting and his wife Rong Dai sat in a teahouse by the West Lake. The teahouse was decorated very elegantly. Rong Dai was skilled at brewing tea, so there was no need for a tea master to serve them.


    The couple drank tea and watched the snowy scenery of West Lake. Time slipped by swiftly.


    Huo Shao Ting sent a message to Zhang Assistant, and soon received the addresses and contact information of the best silk factories in Hangzhou.


    Because Zhang Assistant had made contact in advance, the general managers came out to receive Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai when they arrived.


    The Huo family was involved in a wide range of industries. Being able to connect with the Huo Group could help promote their reputation, so the managers were very diligent in introducing their products to Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai had discerning taste. She had seen all kinds of exquisite materials in her previous life, but she was still polite and listened patiently to the manager''s introductions without embarrassing him.


    She selected some fashionable fabrics, and although the order was notrge, the manager did not dare to be negligent and provided very attentive service.


    The couple then drove to visit several other factories to see fabrics. Modern industry was more efficient than hand weaving, with novel styles and excellent quality.


    Rong Dai easily found the fabrics she wanted. Some were hand woven, but most were machine woven.


    "So much..."


    Sitting in the car and seeing the totals, even Rong Dai was shocked.


    She had tried to restrain herself, becausepared to her previous life, there were far more base materials to choose from in this modern age.


    She loved embroidery very much, and had trouble stopping once she started buying.


    "I will earn money well, my wife."


    Hearing her words, Huo Shao Ting, who was driving, spoke solemnly.


    He was a married man now, and he had to provide for his wife.


    He would buy whatever pleased her, as long as it made her happy.


    In the future, he would also have to provide for their children, form, diapers, and so on.


    He really had to earn more money now.


    Hearing him say this, Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. She turned her head and looked at him, "Shao Ting, when you say things like this, it puts pressure on me."


    "You don''t need to feel any pressure. I will earn the money for this family. You just spend it. You''re my wife, and it''s natural for me to provide for you," Huo Shao Ting replied earnestly, his handsome face serious.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. Seeing him extend a hand towards her, she naturally ced her palm in his.


    His hands were long and slender, yet very warm.


    "Shao Ting, I will be a good wife to you," she said solemnly, looking at his profile. He loved her so hard, she had to respond to him sincerely as well.


    Huo Shao Ting gripped her hand tightly. Taking advantage of the red light, he turned to look at her, kissing the back of her hand while gazing at her with clear, earnest eyes.


    He spoke gently, "For the rest of our lives, I''ll be in your care, Mrs. Huo."


    Rong Dai''s heart began to pound. Her heart feltpletely full.


    The couple returned to their hotel room and spent a pleasant evening in Hangzhou before heading back to the studio city the next day.


    After sending off Huo Shao Ting, Rong Dai made herself a cup of tea in the kitchen. She had just sat down to look over the script when her phone received a barrage of messages.


    She opened it to see there were messages from Mei Shu and Qiao Wan Zhou.


    After reading their messages, she replied to each before going online to check today''s hot searches.


    Sure enough, she was trending again.


    Rong Dai felt very helpless. She only wanted to live her own life well, and did not want to be excessively scrutinized.


    But she knew her wish was impossible to realize, at least for the time being.


    The content of the hot search was very boring. The paparazzi had captured her and Huo Shao Ting''s visit to the temple yesterday.


    They had only gone to fulfill a vow and ask the abbot for guidance.


    But on the hot search it was written as if they had gone to pray for a child.


    Asking for a child was one thing, but the maliciousments below were even worse.


    Rong Dai was usually indifferent to such matters.


    But Yang Wan Wan''s incident had made her deeply reflect on herself. Now, although someizens were blessing them, most of thements were malicious.


    Cursing that she would never have children was one thing, but some even cursed that she would miscarry even if she did get pregnant.


    These words were more venomous than poison!


    No wonder Mei Shu and Qiao Wan Zhou had been so worried.


    It seemed her words that day were still uneptable to many people.


    She closed Weibo. This malice was too vicious. Although she had been an empress in her past life, seeing such words still angered her.


    They could target her, but she didn''t even have a child yet and they were already cursing her like this.


    Rong Dai felt chilled inside.


    She had just exited Weibo when the doorbell rang.


    She opened the door to see Mei Shu lugging in piles of things.


    "Sister-inw,e help me, it''s so heavy..."


    Huo Mei Shu panted as she put the things down. After catching her breath, she went to the dining table for water before sitting down.


    "Sister-inw, did you and my brother really go to pray for a child yesterday?" Huo Mei Shu asked, looking up at her.


    Rong Dai shook her head. "Just to fulfill a vow, even if we did pray for a child, I should be worshipping Guanyin, not Buddha. He doesn''t handle things like this."


    "That''s right. You''re separated from my brother right now, having a child isn''t like nting vegetables. Those people online are bored and meddling. Don''t take what they say to heart." Huo Mei Shuforted her, and Rong Dai nodded.


    Ignoring them was the most effective method. The more you engaged, the more arrogant and happy they were to curse.


    Her time was precious, she didn''t have so much time to waste on those people.


    "That''s right! Mom sent all this over from Shenyang, it''s to nourish you. She bought it all herself."


    Huo Mei Shu dragged the bags over and started taking out the contents.


    "Bird''s nest, ginseng, lingzhi, cordyceps..."


    In just a few moments, the coffee table was filled. Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry, but she felt very warm inside.


    "I told her that my brother has already prepared all this, but she just didn''t believe it and had to buy it herself."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at the overflowing coffee table and then at her somewhat stunned sister-inw. She was also stunned.


    If her sister-inw ate all these supplements, wouldn''t she be round as a ball?


    "It''s alright, between the two of us we can slowly finish it."


    Rong Dai felt very helpless, but this was her mother-inw''s thoughtful gesture so she couldn''t refuse.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, then looked at her with a smile.


    Rong Dai was puzzled by this look in her sister-inw''s eyes.


    "Sister-inw, there''s a concert tonight. Will you go with me?" Huo Mei Shu put her palms together pleadingly.

 Chapter 197: Sister, You are the best

    <h4>Chapter 197</h4>


    Rong Dai looked at her doubtfully. It was rare for her young sister-inw to make such a request.


    "Is it that mysterious Mr. Gu?"


    A concert that could make the youngdy so attentive must be rted to this person.


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes shone brightly, looking just like a diehard fan.


    She nodded vigorously. "Yes, sister-inw, pleasee with me okay?"


    She hade here for him, just wanting to give herself another chance.


    She had never dared to take this step before, afraid of being rejected.


    But sister-inw''s words reminded her.


    What could she achieve by avoiding it?


    If she didn''t speak up, Gu Chengyan would never know how much she liked him.


    "Are you sure?"


    Rong Dai asked again.


    She was worried that the youngdy might retreat at thest moment, or be rejected by Mr. Gu after confessing her feelings.


    That would be a huge blow to the youngdy.


    When Huo Mei Shu decided to follow her to the filming location initially, it was to amodate her work. She had done a lot of work.


    One should know that the youngdy studied Eastern ssical music and came from a wealthy family. She had never suffered hardship since childhood.


    Now, just to pursue a man, she was willing to lower her status to do such tedious and tiring work.


    Her daily work, living arrangements, meals, etc., these were all carefully taken care of by the youngdy.


    Not only was this work tedious, but also very dull.


    The youngdy had to get up earlier than her every day. Although she basically had nothing to do on set, she still had to wait until all the shooting was done before she could rest.


    It was obvious that she was truly in love with Mr. Gu.


    This made Rong Dai even more curious. What was so attractive about this mysterious Mr. Gu?


    To make Huo Mei Shu, such an outstanding youngdy from a prestigious family, be so infatuated with him?


    She had looked up Gu Chengyan''s information online, but there was only Gu Chengyan''s personal information, and the photos seemed to be from his student years, with no other photos.


    Although she cared about the youngdy''s affairs, after all, these were the youngdy''s personal matters.


    If she interfered too much, it would be inappropriate, so she did not ask too much.


    "Well, I''ve made up my mind."


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes were serious and determined, and she nodded vigorously.


    Rong Dai thought she had worked hard these days, and yesterday Huo Shao Ting had given her two days off, so she didn''t need to go to the set today either.


    "Okay then, I also want to see what kind of character this Mr. Gu is, to make you care for him so."


    Rong Dai nodded. She was indeed very curious.


    "Thank you, sister-inw! You''re the best!"


    Huo Mei Shu excitedly spread her arms and cheered, jumping off the sofa and hugging her. Humming a song, the happy light in her eyes was like twinkling stars.


    Seeing her so happy, Rong Dai''s face showed a faint smile.


    She had originally wanted to ask the youngdy what if Mr. Gu rejected her?


    But seeing her so happy, she didn''t ask.


    "Sister-inw, what should I wear to look good? Should I prepare a gift? He likes drinking tea and eating cake, should I buy some to bring over? Or should I just buy a bouquet?"


    Although happy, Huo Mei Shu hadn''t forgotten the important things.


    Rong Dai looked at her doubtfully: "Is it like your private concerts? If so, it''s good to prepare a little."


    At this question, Huo Mei Shu felt a little embarrassed and scratched the back of her head awkwardly, looking at her: "Actually...it''s not really a concert, just that one of his friends here opened a restaurant and invited him over. He''ll perform in the evening."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    She really didn''t know what to say.


    The youngdy had strong opinions on other matters, but when it came to this mysterious Mr. Gu, she seemed to lose her normal thinking.


    "So it''s an opening celebration? In that case, there''s no need to dress too formally."


    She shook her head and advised the youngdy.


    After all, it was just someone''s opening celebration. If she dressed too formally, it would be embarrassing.


    "You''re right. You studied design, please help me pick a good outfit? I''m a little...nervous."


    Huo Mei Shu asked her with a red face. Just thinking about being able to see the person she liked soon, her eyes couldn''t help but brim with stars.


    Rong Dai smiled wryly, but nodded in agreement and followed her to her apartment.


    Huo Mei Shu pulled her into the dressing room and took out several sets of clothes she really liked for Rong Dai to see, trying them on one by one.


    Rong Dai sat in a chair to advise her.


    In fact, the youngdy had the looks of a ssic beauty. As a student of ssical music, she also had a special temperament.


    The Huo family genes were good. Apart from Huo Shao Ting being extraordinarily handsome, even the young uncle was over 180cm tall. The youngdy was about the same height as her.


    "Ahhhhh! Why don''t I have a single good outfit! It''s toote to go shopping at the mall now."


    After trying on seven or eight sets in one go, Huo Mei Shu was very dissatisfied with Rong Dai''s objective opinions.


    Rong Dai understood her feelings and took the initiative to help pick an outfit.


    "How about this skirt? Do you have any scarves or anything? Let me sew a few stitches to change the style a bit, it will have an oriental ir. Wear it with a coat, simple and elegant."


    She never liked clothes that were tooplicated. That was unavoidable in her previous life.


    But this was different in this new world. Women''s clothing was ever-changing, without the need for endlessyers.


    "Yes! I''ll get it!"


    Huo Mei Shu had absolute confidence in her sister-inw''s taste and skills. Many people had asked her where she got her cheongsam tailored after she appeared in the one designed by sister-inwst time.


    But sister-inw didn''t have time, so she didn''t publicize it.


    Rong Dai took the skirt and Huo Mei Shu brought a scarf of the same color series and a sewing kit.


    "Sister-inw, will this work?"


    Rong Dai took a look at the scarf. The tag was still attached.


    She had studied very seriously during this time. Because of the original host''s identity as a design student, she had specifically learned about the high-end brands in this new world.


    This scarf of the youngdy''s was a collectible item from a certain luxury brand, and was already discontinued.


    "Are you sure? This scarf is discontinued, if we use it, you won''t be able to buy it again in the future."


    "Use it, use it!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded quickly. As long as she could show Gu Chengyan her best side, what was a scarf?


    "Okay then."


    Since the youngdy didn''t mind, she had no objections either.


    Threading the needle deftly with both hands, she made the scarf into two sections, and also borrowed some pearls from the youngdy.


    Matching the youngdy''s waistline, she fixed the scarf nicely, the pearls cleverly hiding the stitching while serving as decoration.

 Chapter 198: We Are Family

    <h4>Chapter 198</h4>


    Rong Dai''s hands nimbly tied the two tails of the silk scarf at the left side of her waist, then used scissors to cut the scarf open and braided it into a Chinese knot.


    She attached pearls to the Chinese knot to add weight and a dangling feel, and attached three pearls to each of the two scarf strips hanging down.


    The modification of the skirt wasplete.


    "Okay, try it on and see if you are satisfied."


    Rong Dai handed the skirt to her.


    "Sister-inw, your hands are too skillful!"


    Huo Mei Shu took the skirt with great surprise. Who could have imagined that a simple long skirt, a silk scarf, and a few pearls could change its style and charm?


    "Go try it, if it doesn''t work, we still have time to pick something else."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly.


    It was thanks to those ten years in the cold pce that she was able to maintain such a high level of skill until now.


    Otherwise, why would she, a princess of a nation, need to sew her own clothes?


    Huo Mei Shu gleefully tried on the clothes. Rong Dai deftly folded the leftover silk scarf into a peony flower, securing it with needle and thread, and attaching three smaller pearls at the pistil.


    "Sister-inw, I really love you too much!"


    Huo Mei Shu came out of the dressing room wearing the skirt, unable to conceal the delight on her face. She happily tiptoed and spun around twice in ce.


    "I''m d you like it."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. The little sister-inw''s temperament was very suitable for clothes with Eastern characteristics, which could enhance her charm.


    "I absolutely love it! I almost want you to make all my clothes there if you weren''t so busy!"


    Huo Mei Shu was superb at ttery, and when she startedplimenting someone, her mouth was like honey.


    Rong Dai smiled gently, very satisfied.


    It turned out that when one''s efforts were appreciated, it felt so good.


    "Are you still putting on makeup? Gifts like delivering cakes or tea are not appropriate... Did they invite you?"


    Rong Dai saw that the little sister-inw was so happy she forgot herself, and reminded her.


    At this reminder, Huo Mei Shu''s face became awkward.


    "I... just want to go there for dinner."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    So the little sister-inw meant she was creating an opportunity for herself?


    "Then you can''t be too deliberate. Gifts are unnecessary."


    Huo Mei Shu smiled awkwardly but politely, and stuck out her tongue mischievously when she saw Rong Dai''s helpless smile.


    Then she went to change her clothes again, her face a little disappointed.


    "Why did you change out of it?"


    Rong Dai asked when she saw her mood was off.


    Huo Mei Shu sighed heavily, "Sister-inw, am I very pathetic? I''m so cowardly even when chasing after a boy I like."


    "But... I really, really, really like him, so much it''s ridiculous."


    She saidnguidly, her face both disappointed and sweetly smiling.


    "It took a lot for me to work up my courage this time, I''m afraid I''ll chicken out when I see him again. I want to see him but I''m also afraid to see him, because I don''t know what to say to him."


    Rong Dai listened quietly and attentively to the little sister-inw''s confession.


    Because of her past life experiences, she could fully understand the little sister-inw''s feelings.


    She also understood very well her anticipation and struggles.


    "Mei Shu, be a little braver. The worst that could happen is a bad oue, and if it''s painful at least you''ll know clearly right away, right?"


    She gently patted the little sister-inw''s back, her voice very gentle and reassuring.


    Although she was younger than the little sister-inw, she had to be more like an elder.


    "We''ll face any issues together, okay? Don''t forget, we''re family."


    She held Huo Mei Shu''s hand gently, her voice soft but strangely empowering.


    "Thank you sister-inw, I only dare to tell you these things."


    "Mom has her own things, big brother and second brother have their things, and I have pitifully few friends. I can only talk to you about these feelings, thank you for listening to my bbering."


    Huo Mei Shu held her hand in return, silently cheering herself on in her heart.


    "Then I''ll go change, you tidy up too, we can wander around nearby first and go to their shopter."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly.


    What young woman hadn''t been a silly girl at one point?


    But it was precisely these simple, innocent feelings that would be the most beautiful memories of one''s youth, and also the most stubborn.


    After the sisters-inw changed, they left the apartment. The restaurant wasn''t far from the film and TV city, just inside the mall.


    The sisters-inw loitered in the mall until it got dark, then entered the restaurant right on time.


    Because it was opening day, and dinner time, the restaurant was bustling.


    The sisters-inw were very lucky to get thest table.


    "That was close! We almost missed the chance!"


    After sitting down, Huo Mei Shu clutched her chest and secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Rong Dai sat across from her, and when she saw her actions, a shallow, gentle smile appeared on her face.


    To buy time, Huo Mei Shu abandoned the fine Huo family tradition of frugality and ordered a whole table full of dishes.


    The waiter was hesitant at first, after all there were posters in their restaurant.


    But it was dispelled by the little sister-inw saying "We have other friendsing."


    Rong Dai was very helpless, but at the same time she felt sorry for the little sister-inw.


    With the little sister-inw''s status, what kind of man was unavable?


    Yet she was so humbly in love with this mysterious Mr. Gu.


    She had the experience of her past life.


    She was originally the arrogant daughter of Heaven, but because she loved too humbly, she not only lost herself but also suffered a very cruel blow.


    She was a little worried that the little sister-inw would get hurt in love.


    "Sister-inw, eat slowly, there''s plenty more! We''ll order again if it''s not enough."


    Huo Mei Shu poured water for her while urging her to eat.


    But she herself kept looking around without touching the food in front of her at all.


    Rong Dai nodded and ate quietly. Seeing the screen of the phone on the table light up, she tapped it.


    It was a message from Qiao Wanzhou.


    Thinking of Qiao Wanzhou reminded her that she hadn''t had a chance to ask Zhou Jing about sending her back.


    But she figured that even if something happened between them, he probably wouldn''t tell her about it. After all, it was a private matter.


    They were both top celebrities in the industry, young but already seniors.


    Of course they would be extra careful about these things.

 Chapter 199: He doesn鈥檛 Like Women

    <h4>Chapter 199</h4>


    Miss Qiao asked if we wanted to go eat together, saying that a new restaurant opened, and it just so happened to be a friend she knew.


    When Rong Dai saw that the little sister-inw was still looking around absentmindedly, not interested in eating, she asked her a question.


    "Sister Qiao?"


    Only then did Huo Mei Shu pull her soul back.


    "She sent me the address of the store, and it looks like it''s this ce from what I see."


    Rong Dai handed her the phone to take a look.


    Huo Mei Shu took a nce at the address on the phone and nodded, "Yes, it''s here."


    "Then I''ll let here over. We ordered so many dishes but can''t finish them ourselves. Since she said it''s a friend''s restaurant, she should know the owner of this restaurant."


    Rong Dai asked her, but the little sister-inw wasn''t invited.


    Since this was a newly opened restaurant, even if it was an evening get-together of friendsing to show support, they would certainly have to wait until all the customers left.


    So she and the little sister-inw couldn''t stubbornly stay here and refuse to leave either.


    "Then I''ll call Sister Qiao!"


    Huo Mei Shu was clever and immediately understood the deeper meaning behind what Rong Dai said, and promptly made a phone call to Qiao Wanzhou.


    Half an hourter, Qiao Wanzhou arrived.


    But she looked a bit tired, which Rong Dai, with her two lifetimes of experience, noticed at a nce.


    She was a little curious in her heart.


    It seemed that whatever was supposed to happen that night between Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing did happen, but the result was apparently unexpected and not to Qiao Wanzhou''s liking, otherwise she wouldn''t have this expression.


    She didn''t ask Qiao Wanzhou about it and just poured her some hot tea.


    "The dishes are very good, try some. If I knew you were going out to eat earlier, I should have invited you along when Mei Shu and I went out together."


    Rong Dai said lightly with a smile.


    Although she hadn''t yet taken Qiao Wanzhou as a friend she could open up to, she did like Qiao Wanzhou''s personality.


    This kind of woman with her own views and insights and experience was excellent in and of herself.


    Befriending such a person was veryfortable.


    "I was sleeping earlier. I''ve beencking sleep badly these days, and since my scenes are less intense now, I''m catching up on rest when I can."


    Qiao Wanzhou nodded. They were all smart people and understood things with just a few words said.


    "Sister Qiao, is the owner of this restaurant your friend?"


    Huo Mei Shu''s mind wasn''t on the food. Her whole mind was set on whether Gu Chengyan woulde here.


    Qiao Wanzhouzily leaned back in her chair, "Not a friend, but my mentor. Teacher Feng, Feng Kun."


    While Rong Dai didn''t know too much about the entertainment industry, Huo Mei Shu did.


    "Is it that Teacher Feng who announced his retirement from the industry two years ago? I heard he opened a restaurant after leaving the industry. Is it true?"


    Of course Huo Mei Shu knew of this Teacher Feng.


    This Teacher Feng, nearing seventy years old, was a legendary figure in the industry.


    Not only did his works as a director make countless people famous, his works were also impossible to surpass. He was also a versatile director.


    Singing, cooking, he was extremely proficient in it all.


    And Gu Chengyan had also once received guidance from Teacher Feng.


    So Gu Chengyan would definitelye!


    Huo Mei Shu was extremely happy, just short ofughing out loud!


    "What''s up with her?"


    Qiao Wanzhou knitted her brows slightly, looking at Huo Mei Shu foolishly smiling, and asked Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai put down her chopsticks, drank a sip of hot tea to clear her pte, and lightly sighed, "You''ll know in a bit."


    Qiao Wanzhou didn''t ask any further and continued eating.


    At eight o''clock, the customers in the restaurant gradually left, and the restaurant stopped taking any more customers. It gradually quieted down.


    A server came to remind them of the dining time. Qiao Wanzhouzily leaned back in her chair, "I brought my friends here to see Teacher. You guys go about your business, no need to worry about us here."


    When the server saw it was a top-tier actress like Qiao Wanzhou, his eyes immediately lit up!


    They were trained and of course knew who they had invited over.


    Although this Teacher Feng had withdrawn from the industry, the actors he had mentored were countless, and each and every one was currently an industry leader.


    "Of course, Miss Qiao."


    The server politely replied before leaving to remind the other diners who hade to eat.


    The three women were full from the meal. Qiao Wanzhou leaned back in her chair spacing out. Rong Dai looked at her phone replying to messages from Huo Shaoting.


    Only Huo Mei Shu was full of anticipation, looking around everywhere.


    It wasn''t until after 9:30 that all the customers had left the restaurant. The servers in the restaurant were tidying up while people steadily trickled into the restaurant.


    The three of them were sitting in a more secluded spot, hidden by nts, so no one noticed them.


    Huo Mei Shu watched the entrance anxiously and expectantly. Rong Dai also kept looking in the same direction she was.


    She was very curious whether this Mr. Gu was some three-headed-six-armed creature to have the little sister-inw so enthralled.


    "What are you looking at so intently?"


    Qiao Wanzhou also noticed something off about the sister-inw pair and asked.


    "Gu Chengyan. Since Teacher Feng is here, he will definitelye."


    Huo Mei Shu was watching so attentively that when someone asked, she blurted out an answer.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s beautiful eyes instantly grew suspicious as she looked Huo Mei Shu up and down, casting an inquiring look at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai lightly smiled and nodded.


    "Huo Mei Shu, is there something wrong with your brain? Or has studying music made your brain go bad? Out of anyone, you like that Gu Chengyan?"


    Qiao Wanzhou looked at her incredulously.


    Huo Mei Shu''s ears instantly turned red as she twisted her hands together anxiously, "Senior Gu Chengyan, he, he''s really good."


    Qiao Wanzhou was instantly rendered speechless.


    Rong Dai, sitting next to her, could clearly see Qiao Wanzhou''s mouth twitch twice.


    She couldn''t help but think of Huo Shaoting''s words in describing that Mr. Gu Chengyan: tone deaf, dumbass.


    Here, tone deaf didn''t mean he was obtuse about music, but rather the extent of his obsession with music.


    "Is that Mr. Gu...really not good?"


    Rong Dai also couldn''t help worrying.


    Qiao Wanzhou instantlyughed lightly, "It''s not that he''s not good. His talent, family background, looks are all top-notch. It''s just that this guy is a bit dumb.


    "Can you imagine a thirty-year-old man whose emotions are aplete nk te? That''s fine, being chaste and all.


    "But he doesn''t like women getting close to him. Even those he''s very familiar with can''t get close and must keep a certain distance, otherwise he flips out mercilessly.


    As she spoke, she stared at Huo Mei Shu very seriously, "Mei Shu, our families are acquainted. Since you''re calling me Sister Qiao, I have to warn you to brace yourself mentally.


    "Gu Chengyan extremely dislikes having women get close to him. I mean, if, if his preferences aren''t normal, then you have to pull yourself out of this. If you get stuck in it, you''ll suffer."


    Her words made Rong Dai worried, and Huo Mei Shu''s face went pale.


    "Sister Qiao...you''re not telling the truth, right?"


    How could such an outstanding person like Senior Gu be like that?


    Qiao Wanzhou sighed, "I can''t say for sure, just warning you to be mentally prepared."

 Chapter 200: Bring a Girl

    <h4>Chapter 200</h4>


    When she heard her say that, Huo Mei Shu''s face softened a little, but her heart was drumming.


    She couldn''t ept that the male god she had liked for so many years would have this kind of problem!


    Rong Dai was also very worried.


    She picked up her phone and sent a message to Huo Shao Ting, and received a reply in just a few minutes.


    Since Huo Shao Ting knew about his little sister''s troubles, although he didn''t intervene, he must have investigated Gu Chengyan.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to get Gu Chengyan toe to his little sister''s private music concertst time.


    Huo Shao Ting asked her why she would ask such a question, and Rong Dai simply exined a few sentences.


    After chatting with her husband for a few minutes, Rong Dai now understood why that mysterious Mr. Gu was so reluctant to be in contact with women.


    He had almost been pressed down on the bed and robbed of his chastity by a girl who liked him.


    This reason...


    Rong Dai was a little speechless, silently turning off her phone screen, feeling relieved.


    As long as he wasn''t like Zuo Ran, it would be good. Otherwise, this would be more cruel to the little sister than being rejected by Mr. Gu.


    This was probably something even Qiao Wanzhou didn''t know about, otherwise she wouldn''t have cautioned the little sister so seriously and solemnly either.


    Qiao Wanzhou was also thinking of the little sister''s well-being, and didn''t have any malice.


    The three women were sitting there watching the peopleing and going in the store when Jiang Xu''s voice came from behind them on the side aisle, "Mei Shu? What are you doing here?"


    Huo Mei Shu nced back at him, then withdrew her gaze, "Where I am is none of your business! Did I ever ask where you were?"


    Obviously she was in a bad mood, most likely affected by what Qiao Wanzhou had just said.


    Jiang Xu said helplessly, "Miss Huo, I didn''t provoke you today."


    "Mei Shu, this is..."


    Rong Dai knew her mood was affected, but Qiao Wanzhou was still here, so she couldn''t speak inly.


    Otherwise, it would hurt Qiao Wanzhou''s and the little sister''s feelings.


    This was probably something even Qiao Wanzhou was unaware of, otherwise she wouldn''t have cautioned the little sister so earnestly either.


    Qiao Wanzhou was also thinking of the little sister''s well-being, and didn''t have any malice.


    Her timely interjection brought Huo Mei Shu''s attitude back, and she gestured for Jiang Xu to sit down, then introduced him, "This is my sister-inw, Rong Dai. And this one doesn''t need my introduction, right? Miss Qiao Wanzhou."


    Jiang Xu smiled and nodded, which served as a greeting.


    "Jiang Xu, my college ssmate, second son of the Jiang family."


    Huo Mei Shu''s introduction was concise and to the point. Rong Dai was helpless, but Jiang Xu understood her very well and didn''t mind.


    "Senior Gu might bring someone with him today, so prepare yourself mentally."


    Jiang Xu looked at Huo Mei Shu and hesitated for a few seconds before speaking.


    Although Rong Dai didn''t pay special attention to Jiang Xu, his gaze towards the little sister was very different.


    "Coming with who?"


    Before Huo Mei Shu could speak, Qiao Wanzhou, who had not said anything so far, immediately widened her eyes when she heard Jiang Xu''s words, and was very shocked.


    Jiang Xu nodded, his eyes always on Huo Mei Shu.


    "Why are you hem-hawing about a simple thing?"


    Seeing that Jiang Xu didn''t speak for a long time, Huo Mei Shu, who was a little impatient by nature, instantly became irritated.


    "It''s Ye Liyun. She''sing with Gu Chengyan today."


    Jiang Xu was helpless. He should have given her a heads up earlier. This young miss would probably be unhappy again now.


    Rong Dai noticed that the little sister''s face instantly became ferocious. She was frightened and hurriedly poured her tea, "Mei Shu, drink some tea first."


    She knew the little sister''s temper. Once her temper was up, it couldn''t be suppressed.


    If the mysterious Mr. Gu saw this, the little sister''s y would be half ruined.


    Huo Mei Shu was reminded by her in time and very timely steadied her emotions, but her face was still very dark.


    "How did she get here?"


    Jiang Xu felt like he was stuck between a rock and a hard ce. It would have been better if he hadn''t given her a heads up earlier.


    "Last month, I went back to our alma mater with Senior Gu. Our school held a party where Ye Liyun performed a piece and won Senior Gu''s admiration."


    "I don''t know the rest. Today she took the ne here together with Senior Gu."


    "Are you saying Gu Chengyan brought a girl with him?"


    Before Huo Mei Shu could speak, Qiao Wanzhou, who hadn''t said anything from the beginning, immediately widened her eyes when she heard Jiang Xu''s words and was very shocked.


    Jiang Xu nodded, his eyes always on Huo Mei Shu.


    "Sister-inw, Miss Qiao, I''m going to the restroom for a bit."


    With her face ck as the bottom of a pot, Huo Mei Shu abruptly stood up, grabbed her handbag and went to the restroom.


    Jiang Xu didn''t dare stay any longer either and hurriedly left after bidding the two farewell.


    "I''ll go see how she''s doing. Will you be alright by yourself here?"


    Worried about the little sister''s emotions, Rong Dai asked Qiao Wanzhou.


    Qiao Wanzhou shook her head, her gaze falling on several people who had just entered the shop. "Go ahead. I''ll go say hi to some friends too. If you need any help, be sure to let me know."


    Rong Dai nodded, took her handbag and went to the restroom to find the little sister.


    When Rong Dai entered, she immediately saw Huo Mei Shu standing by the sink with her bag to the side and slightly red eyes.


    She had obviously cried just now.


    Rong Dai took some tissue and gave it to her, checked that no one else was in the restroom, before asking her, "If you''re too upset, let''s go back."


    Qiao Wanzhou had just said earlier that Mr. Gu was very averse to contact with women, yet now he had brought one along.


    The little sister had silently liked Mr. Gu for so many years. Feeling heartbroken was inevitable.


    She was worried that the little sister wouldn''t be able to control her emotions and loseposure in front of so many people tonight. Looking at Qiao Wanzhou, one could tell the kind of people who coulde here tonight.


    Since even someone like Qiao Wanzhou called him mentor, the people who coulde here tonight must be very famous people in the industry.


    Although the little sister wasn''t in the entertainment industry, she was a daughter of the Huo family.


    If she lost control in front of so many people, it would impact her reputation.


    "Sister-inw, I''m not angry that he brought a girl."


    Huo Mei Shu said resentfully.


    "If he really had a girl he liked, I would silently bless him and back out."


    "But that Ye Liyun was the one who previously giarized my musical score."


    Rong Dai immediately frowned, not having expected things to be this way.


    No wonder the little sister was so angry.


    If it were her, she would probably have reacted even more strongly.


    "What do you n to do then?"


    She asked Huo Mei Shu.


    If that was the case, the little sister definitely couldn''t just leave like this.


    "Sister-inw, I want to stay and expose her true colors."


    Huo Mei Shu said resentfully.


    "She''s not unaware that I like Senior Gu. I treated her like a close sister and would tell her all my troubles, but I didn''t expect her to do this to me."


    Rong Dai: "......"


    This reminded her of an online saying: Guard against fire, theft, and close sisters.


    "Don''t be rash about this. Let''s take it one step at a time. Otherwise if you can''t control your emotions and loseposure in front of everyone, it would be very unfavorable to you and make the other party very happy."

 Chapter 201: A Little White Flower

    <h4>Chapter 201</h4>


    Rong Dai tried tofort her earnestly, afraid that the young sister-inw would really be stimted and do something shocking after a while.


    The young sister-inw would definitely regret it when she sobered up.


    "Sister-inw, don''t worry, I won''t be impulsive."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at the mirror in the sink, her eyes were very firm.


    "...Mei Shu, don''t force yourself."


    Although she heard the promise from the young sister-inw, Rong Dai was still worried.


    "Sister-inw, believe me."


    Huo Mei Shu answered her very seriously, holding her handbag. She paused for a moment, and Rong Dai could clearly see the little spark shing in her sister-inw''s eyes.


    Rong Dai sighed helplessly in her heart, she could only pray in her heart that the young sister-inw could really hold backter.


    Otherwise, let alone confessing to Mr. Gu, I''m afraid she would be shocked if she made a fuss like this.


    After all, few men like domineering women.


    Although the young sister-inw was not domineering, if she really got into a fight with her former girlfriend, everyone would definitely watch the show.


    She could even foresee which side public opinion would stand on.


    The young sister-inw was a richdy of the Huo family. Even if she was right in the matter, others would only say that she was bullying others relying on the Huo family''s background.


    "Sister-inw, don''t be so unconfident in me."


    Seeing that her elder sister-inw obviously didn''t believe in her, Huo Mei Shu was very frustrated. Was she so untrustworthy?


    "I''ve been with sister-inw for a few months, even if I can''t learn the essence from you, I can still learn a little."


    Huo Mei Shu felt very helpless.


    She was indeed angry.


    She was so angry that she wanted to press the slut to the ground and rub her face against it!


    But she was not stupid either. On an asion like tonight, if she really threw a tantrum, the only one who would lose face would be herself.


    Rong Dai could only nod.


    What else could she do now besides believing in the young sister-inw?


    At this moment, soothing music was already sounding outside the restaurant. Huo Mei Shu quickly took out powder from her bag to touch up her makeup.


    "Sister-inw, give me two minutes!"


    Seeing the young sister-inw like this, Rong Dai''s mouth curled up in a faint smile: "No rush."


    Only after Huo Mei Shu finished touching up her makeup did the sisters-inwe out of the washroom.


    "Mei Shu, are you okay?"


    As soon as the sisters-inw came out, Jiang Xu, who had been waiting outside for a long time, looked at her with concern and asked.


    Huo Mei Shu''s footsteps stopped, her eyes red at him: "I''ll settle the score with you when I get back to Shenjing!"


    "Sister-inw, let''s go. I''m going to fix that slut!"


    With that said, holding her own handbag, head held high, she looked just like going to the battlefield.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly, but after a few months of living together, she knew very well what kind of character the young sister-inw had.


    The more she made a fuss like this, the less she would actually cause trouble.


    If she was quiet, then things would really be terrible.


    Many people hade to the restaurant and prepared good food and wine.


    "Hasn''t hee yet?"


    Rong Dai asked the young sister-inw next to her.


    She was very curious what kind of man Mr. Gu was that made her young sister-inw obsess over him for so many years.


    Just as Huo Mei Shu was about to shake her head, her eyes fixed tightly on the person walking in from the door.


    Rong Dai followed her line of sight and looked over.


    A man and a woman, the man was dressed in a suit and looked very neat and energetic.


    Rong Dai had seen Gu Chengyan''s student ID photo before, and recognized him after a few seconds. This was the much rumored Gu Chengyan.


    She looked at Gu Chengyan carefully. Although he could be considered a handsome man, he was stillckingpared to Huo Shaoliang.


    Perhaps because of studying music, he had an air of aloofness from the world.


    This temperament could easily charm women.


    The young sister-inw must have been attracted by his temperament.


    Rong Dai felt that Gu Chengyan was decent enough, this was her evaluation.


    She saw that there was also a woman behind Gu Chengyan.


    Although the woman did note in hand in hand with Gu Chengyan, everyone could see that she came with Gu Chengyan.


    The woman was a little petite, with a small, cute face, exuding innocence and loveliness.


    But Rong Dai was experienced in reading people, especially women. With one nce, she could tell that this woman was very ambitious.


    Sure enough, someone started talking to Gu Chengyan.


    Perhaps because of Gu Chengyan''s personality, from these people''s words and deeds, it seemed that Gu Chengyan really didn''t have many femalepanions.


    This time he suddenly brought a woman, of course it attracted a lot of attention, and everyone politely asked about it.


    But before Gu Chengyan could introduce her, the woman took the initiative to introduce herself first.


    "I am senior Gu''s junior schoolmate. My name is Ye Liyun. Sorry for intruding."


    There was nothing wrong with her introduction.


    But it was obvious that she deliberately didn''t give a full introduction, leaving room for everyone to imagine.


    Hearing her introduction, Gu Chengyan just frowned slightly and said no more.


    "Senior Gu, I didn''t expect to see you here."


    Before Rong Dai could finish analyzing the situation, the young sister-inw next to her had already walked over to Gu Chengyan with a wine ss.


    Rong Dai was shocked. That Ye Liyun was a difficult character to deal with, otherwise the young sister-inw would not have suffered at her hands.


    Rushing up so recklessly like this, Mr. Gu might still buy it, but if he didn''t, things would look bad.


    "Hey hey, that''s her business, she knows how to handle it, don''t get involved."


    Just as she was about to go over, her arm was grabbed by Qiao Wanzhou.


    "But..."


    Rong Dai was still worried.


    She now regarded herself as one of the Huo family, and this young sister-inw was her own. Of course she couldn''t let her suffer.


    However, Qiao Wanzhou pulled her aside and sat down, gracefully swaying the red wine ss in her hand, and took a light sip.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve known this girl longer than you. She won''t suffer." She looked at Rong Dai with a smile, motioning her to stay calm.


    Rong Dai could only sigh lightly, and took a sip of juice.


    "Can''t you drink? Why are you drinking juice?"


    Qiao Wanzhou raised her eyebrows and asked her.


    Rong Dai nced at her. The other party had obviously gone to touch up her makeup, looking as elegant and calm as when Rong Dai saw her at the Qiao family.


    "No, I don''t drink outside."


    She remembered the words the young sister-inw had told her.


    Qiao Wanzhou couldn''t help but sneer, "The people who cane here have Professor Feng''s approval. Everyone here knows their limits, no one dares to toast you."


    As she spoke, she handed Rong Dai a ss of champagne: "Try it, these wines are the professor''s collection, hard to find outside."


    Rong Dai nodded, but only took a small sip and did not dare to drink too much.


    Qiao Wanzhou didn''t mind, sitting with her and chatting intermittently.

 Chapter 202: Add the Gods

    <h4>Chapter 202</h4>


    Rong Dai had been keeping an eye on the little sister''s movements. She and Qiao Wanzhou were not really that familiar with each other.


    Although Huo Shao Ting had told her before that being ordinary friends was fine but getting too close was unnecessary.


    Although she admired Qiao Wanzhou, it would be very difficult for her to be friends with her.


    She could ept the Huo family''s people, but she needed to consider carefully when it came to people outside of the Huo family.


    "Rong Dai, how did you start dating Huo Shao Ting?"


    Qiao Wanzhou suddenly asked her, looking at her with eager and puzzled eyes.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly, not quite understanding if there was any hidden meaning behind her words, or if it was just the literal meaning.


    "Don''t get me wrong, I''m just curious how you got close to someone as cold as Huo Shao Ting. It''s difficult for normal people to get close to him."


    "These past few months while you were filming, not only did he help buy over the crew for you, if anything happened to you, he would definitely show up the next day. You can tell he loves you very much."


    "But you haven''t known each other for that long, and you got married for that reason. I''m really curious, I don''t mean to offend you." Qiao Wanzhou exined.


    Seeing a hint of loneliness in her eyes, Rong Dai thought of her and Zhou Jing''s situation.


    Ever since she met Qiao Wanzhou, her impression was that Qiao Wanzhou was always elegant yet crafty.


    But these past few days her emotions had been a bit unstable.


    "At first there were a lot of problems between us, but once we talked them out and made things clear, it was fine."


    Rong Dai stated very simply and clearly.


    In fact, this was indeed the case. She was not the original owner, so when she was considering things at first, she took a low posture when facing the Huo family because she needed to survive and could not reveal her identity.


    If she had to say when she truly developed feelings for Huo Shao Ting, it was probably when he went to Zuo Ran''s house to rescue her.


    She was afraid of heights, so he came down personally to get her.


    After that, a series of things happened, and Huo Shao Ting appeared by her side in a timely manner every time.


    With him by her side, she felt inexplicably at ease.


    This corresponded with the saying, love arises without knowing why, and goes deeper with time.


    There were also stumbles and obstacles in her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting, but they made it through.


    Fortunately, they understood each other and were tolerant of each other.


    She was also very lucky to have gotten an opportunity.


    Perhaps there would be arguments and times of emotional fatigue between her and Huo Shao Ting in the future.


    But she believed that as long as they still loved each other in their hearts, these problems could be resolved.


    "That simple?"


    Qiao Wanzhou clearly didn''t believe it.


    She had told him everything, to the point ofying her heart out for him to see, but he still didn''t understand.


    He clearly had her in his heart, but he just refused to get close to her.


    Every time she steeled her heart to leave, he would give her a ray of sunshine, and she would willingly return to his side like a puppet on a string.


    This had been going on for many years, she really could not bear such torment anymore.


    Rong Dai nodded, looking into her eyes, and asked in a lowered voice, "You and Senior Zhou...still aren''t together?"


    After thinking about it, she changed the way she asked.


    Zhou Jing was a very dedicated actor. For actors of his caliber, they treasured their reputations greatly. Some scenes could definitely be done by stunt doubles.


    But he insisted on personally being on set for every scene, extremely diligent and strict.


    Qiao Wanzhou gave a bitterugh, the elegance on her facepletely gone: "I''m not as lucky as you to meet someone like Huo Shao Ting. He...doesn''t get it at all."


    Rong Dai could hear the bitterness in her words. Although she felt great sympathy for her, when it came to personal rtionships like this, it wasn''t good for her to pry too much, and this asion wasn''t suitable for discussing this topic either. So she shifted her gaze to the little sister.


    Ye Liyun felt very uneasy when she saw Huo Mei Shu appear here.


    After all, she had used the other party''s music score and wanted to steal her man.


    Although this man hadn''t even been won over by Huo Mei Shu yet, Huo Mei Shu had already told her about it.


    "Senior Gu, do you still remember me?"


    Huo Mei Shu came from a prestigious family and had been professionally trained in etiquette.


    Although she was a bitzy usually, when she got serious, she had a bit of a nobledy''s air.


    Holding a wine ss, a smile on her face, she asked very confidently yet gently.


    Although she appeared very calm, only Huo Mei Shu herself knew that she was extremely nervous, even sweating in her palms.


    Gu Chengyan looked at her in confusion for several seconds before recalling, "You are Miss Huo."


    Huo Mei Shu was overjoyed!


    Her crush still remembered her!


    "Yes, it''s me. Last time it was a real pity Senior Gu couldn''t make it to the scene. I didn''t expect to run into you here today."


    Huo Mei Shu smiled gently and spoke appropriately and courteously.


    She was already very good-looking, and appeared even more striking when speaking and behaving so gracefully.


    Gu Chengyan also smiled gently, "It was regretful. If there is another opportunity in the future, I wille."


    Huo Mei Shu was in great spirits, but this didn''t mean she would let Ye Liyun off so easily.


    "Liyun? You''re here too!"


    Her gaze shifted andnded on Ye Liyun.


    Ye Liyun thought things were looking bad. Just as she was about to speak, Huo Mei Shu stole the conversation.


    "How did you like the music score I gave youst time? I''ve been in the film and television city apanying my sister-inw these past few months, I''d forgotten to ask you. It was that song ''Dreaming of Falling Flowers, Who Knows How Many'', there are still a few notes that need tweaking. I''ll try it again when we''re back in Shengjing."


    Huo Mei Shu spoke with a brilliant smile, pretending to bepletely innocent.


    Ye Liyun was furious! The smile on her face stiffened.


    Hearing her say this, Gu Chengyan looked at Ye Liyun a bit strangely.


    Huo Mei Shu stopped at the key point and did not continue aggressively.


    "Senior Gu, I still have things to take care of, so I won''t disturb you further. When you have time, I hope to consult you again. May I ask for a contact number to reach you?"


    Her smile was sincere and natural.


    She knew it was very risky to ask this, because very few people could get Gu Chengyan''s contact information. Usually people only got his assistant''s number.


    He was the godlike figure in the music industry, unreachable and high above.


    The people who hade to the event all recognized Gu Chengyan, and understood this about him.


    So they couldn''t help but look at him, curious to see how he would react.


    Although Huo Mei Shu wasn''t someone from the industry, with her identity as a Huo family heiress, they would find it hard not to know her.


    Gu Chengyan looked at her for a few seconds, then took out his phone and said in a cool voice, "Scan me."


    Huo Mei Shu had thought he might give her a business card or something, but didn''t expect him to directly let her add his WeChat!


    She hurriedly took out her phone and added him. The people around them smiled knowingly.


    Although the Huo family wasn''t the biggest boss in the entertainment industry, no one dared look down on the Huo family''s power.


    "Thank you, Senior."


    Huo Mei Shu was very polite. Looking at the crush she had just added, the gloom in her heart had already dispersed.


    Gu Chengyan nodded, then turned to chat with others.


    "Liyun, I''ll go take care of things first. When we''re back in Shengjing, I''ll treat you to a meal."


    I''ll have to properly thank you for giving me this chance to get close to my crush!


    Huo Mei Shu had an amiable smile as she gripped her phone and walked towards Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou.


    Ye Liyun''s face turned a bit pale as she tightly clutched her handbag. In her heart, she hated Huo Mei Shu to the extreme!

 Chapter 203: My sister-in-law has a Good Heart

    <h4>Chapter 203</h4>


    "See, what did I tell you?"


    When Huo Mei Shu walked over, Qiao Wanzhou looked at Rong Dai and smiled.


    Rong Dai also didn''t expect her young sister-inw to be so calm. Although she was too far away to hear what they were saying, just looking at her sister-inw''s behavior, she could guess a little.


    "Sister-inw, I got it!"


    Huo Mei Shu was like a child who had just received a reward. She sat down eagerly, tightly holding her phone like a treasure.


    Rong Dai saw her eyes shining and the corners of her mouth turned up in a faint smile.


    "That''s good that you got it."


    She really hoped that her young sister-inw could find happiness.


    But love, that rare substance, cannot be sought after.


    If fatees, then perhaps ites.


    In her previous life she had exhausted all her strength seeking, but all she got in return was wounds all over her body.


    So she hoped that her sister-inw could find happiness, just as her family had wished for her back then.


    The sisters-inw had aplished their goal, and Qiao Wanzhou had also lost interest because of Zhou Jing''s matter. But they couldn''t just leave in the middle of an asion like this.


    So the three women sat in the corner, watching the different kinds of people around them.


    Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou''s minds were not focused on this. They simply chatted about their characters in the drama since they both had many scenes left.


    Huo Mei Shu held her phone by herself, smiling foolishly as she browsed Gu Chengyan''s Moments page.


    From time to time she would say: "He really is my idol, he looks so good and artistic in every photo he takes..."


    She was just short of calling him a god.


    Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou were both very speechless. Although Rong Dai was only twenty-two now, her body housed a mature ancient soul.


    Qiao Wanzhou was even more of a modern, intelligent woman.


    The two of them watching Huo Mei Shu smile foolishly from time to time could only choose to tune her out.


    Because all the big shot celebrities were here, most people were socializing. Only the three women sat in the corner, adopting the stance of onlookers.


    "Rong Dai, I''ve always admired you, but you''ve always kept your distance from me. Do you feel that I''m not sincere enough, and can''t be your friend?"


    After the two finished discussing the script, they had each finished a ss of red wine and champagne.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s cheeks were slightly flushed. She looked at Rong Dai with a bit of blurriness and hurt in her eyes.


    Rong Dai was actually quite surprised that she would ask this. Although she also wanted to have friends, friendship was not something that could be forced.


    Qiao Wanzhou was excellent. Having excellent people as friends was a good thing.


    But she didn''t have the desire to be friends with Qiao Wanzhou. The other party''s thoughts were too intricate, and she was afraid she wouldn''t be able to keep up.


    "Miss Qiao, you are very aplished. I don''t think anyone would be unwilling to be friends with you," she replied with a faint smile.


    She was a little unclear why Qiao Wanzhou was so insistent on bing friends with her.


    "Don''t try to fool me with this kind of perfunctory officialnguage. Do you feel that I''m too worldly and slick, so dealing with someone like me would mean getting plotted against?"


    Qiao Wanzhou tossed her beautiful hair and looked at her with piercing eyes.


    Rong Dai shook her head with a faint smile, "Miss Qiao, you misunderstood. For me, friendship cannot be forced."


    "I see."


    Hearing her say this, Qiao Wanzhou smiled.


    This Rong Dai really was different.


    If it were anyone else who had received the olive branch she extended, they would have started fawning over her long ago.


    But after asking Rong Dai two or three times, her attitude remained indifferent.


    She had her own pride, of course she wouldn''t keep groveling like this either.


    The two women were exceptionally intelligent. Some things could be understood with just a hint.


    "Mei Shu, can I talk to you for a bit?"


    Just as Rong Dai finished speaking with Qiao Wanzhou, Ye Liyun walked over and looked at Huo Mei Shu, who was still browsing Gu Chengyan''s Moments page, asking carefully and fawningly.


    The two looked over at the same time.


    Ye Liyun became nervous. Her face was stiff as she smiled awkwardly.


    Huo Mei Shu turned off her phone screen and also smiled back at Ye Liyun.


    This was something she had learned from her sister-inw - even when facing an enemy, one had to remain calm and graceful, with a smiling face, so as not to let the other party see through her thoughts.


    "Liyun, why aren''t you apanying Senior Gu? What do you want to talk to me about? Just say it here."


    "This is my sister-inw, and this is my sister Qiao. They aren''t outsiders."


    Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou had not expected Huo Mei Shu to turn the tables on Ye Liyun like this. The two women both had life experience.


    With one look, it was clear this Ye Liyun was not a good sort.


    If Huo Mei Shu had just gone with her, there was probably a trap waiting for her.


    Ye Liyun had not anticipated Huo Mei Shu would say this. She subconsciously clenched her handbag, ncing awkwardly at Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou.


    "Mei Shu, it''s a private matter. I''m afraid it might make Mrs. Huo and Miss Qiao ufortable. We''re close friends, so it''s fine to talk to you about it."


    "It''s no problem at all. I''m old enough that there''s nothing that would make me ufortable," Qiao Wanzhou said gently and sexily, directly cutting off Ye Liyun''s intentions.


    Ye Liyun''s face turned pale as she looked pleadingly at Huo Mei Shu.


    How could this Huo Mei Shu have be so clever?


    In the past, whatever she said, Huo Mei Shu would believe it.


    It was just a song she borrowed, what was the big deal? Yet she made such a fuss about it in front of Senior Gu, how embarrassing!


    Of course she couldn''t swallow this anger!


    "Then...I''ll tell you when you''re back in Shengjing. I thought you''d care a lot about Senior Gu''s matters."


    Ye Liyun yed her trump card.


    In that instant, Huo Mei Shu was taken aback.


    "Tsk, no one''s cared about that silly Gu Chengyan in eight hundred years. Mei Shu, if you want to know anything about him you can just ask me. I even know what age he was still wetting the bed."


    Qiao Wanzhou was in a bad mood. Coming across nauseating things like this, of course she had to retaliate. Ye Liyun could only me her own bad luck.


    It wasmon knowledge in Shengjing that the Qiao family and Gu family were tied by marriage.


    So these wordsing from Qiao Wanzhou''s mouth werepletely appropriate.


    Rong Dai saw that Ye Liyun''s face was pale and stiff, and could only sigh silently for her in her heart.


    What bad timing toe cause trouble, right in front of her and Qiao Wanzhou.


    "Miss Ye, since my sister-inw is your close friend, she must have told you about her troubles."


    "Thank you for caring so much about our Mei Shu''s matters, but plotting in the shadows like this, I''d advise Miss Ye to be more careful, in case you drown yourself."


    "My sister-inw is kindhearted and doesn''t like to keep score, but I''m different."


    "If you''ve read the news in Shengjing, you''d know I''m not someone to cross lightly."


    "My sister-inw is kind, but I''m a bit more vicious."


    Rong Dai''s delicate and beautiful face revealed a gentle smile, but the coldness and authority in her eyes were very clear.


    Although her voice was crisp and bright when she spoke, the chill it contained made one shiver.


    She was part of the Huo family. For Shaolin, for the Huo family, she could y the viin.


    It was hard to be a good person, but being bad was much easier.


    In this life, she would no longer weigh each person''s thoughts. She would only protect those she wanted to protect.

 Chapter 204: I Won鈥檛 Forget You

    <h4>Chapter 204</h4>


    "Also, as someone who''s been through this, I''d like to give Miss Ye a reminder," Rong Dai said with a smile.


    "Since you''ve already taken what''s not yours, you should secretly enjoy it, tuck your tail between your legs, and don''t repeatedly provoke others'' bottom lines, or you''ll only end up losing more than you gain."


    "You need to know that when rabbits get anxious they will bite, I''m only tolerating this now because I don''t want to get my hands dirty dealing with you."


    "I hope that in the future Miss Ye, you''ll keep some distance from my sister-inw, okay?"


    Rong Dai spoke softly and gently, but the intimidation emanating from her eyes made Ye Liyun''s face turn pale, sending a chill down her spine.


    Rong Dai had not originally intended to meddle in this matter, as it was her sister-inw''s personal affair after all.


    But she thought of her elder sister in her previous life, who would always stand up for her first whenever she encountered any problems or was bullied, regardless of whether it was her fault to begin with, and only deal with her afterwards.


    Her sister-inw treated her well, the Huo family treated her well, so she should of course repay their peach with a plum.


    There was a certain way people should interact with each other.


    "I...Mei Shu, I really didn''t mean to, the issue with the song was truly an ident that I posted it before realizing, and by the time I noticed it was already toote to take back, so I...could only brazen it out."


    Thinking of the news about Rong Dai in Beijing, even someone on the level of Wen Shn from such a prominent family had been thrown in jail, Ye Liyun couldn''t help but feel a chill run through her.


    She knew she was no match for the other party. Right now she could only submit.


    After all, the other was the wife of a prominent family, the daughter of a prominent family, while she was just an ordinarymoner from a lowly background!


    Although extremely unwilling in her heart, Ye Liyun still lied against her conscience.


    "It''s fine, it''s just a song anyway, you can take it if you like it."


    Huo Mei Shu was very grateful that her sister-inw stood up for her like this.


    She wasn''t stupid either, she understood what her sister-inw and sister Qiao meant at this time, otherwise she might as well not have lived these twenty four years.


    This was a good opportunity for her to draw a clear boundary with this shameless woman!


    "Ye Liyun, I used to take you as a close friend, but now that you''ve made your own choices, I won''t stop you, this is your freedom after all."


    "But from now on, you are no longer Huo Mei Shu''s close friend, nor just a friend, so please stay away from my life."


    Huo Mei Shu said coldly.


    Ye Liyun''s face was ghastly pale as she tightly clutched her handbag, her freshly done nails were even chipped.


    "I''m...sorry."


    She bowed deeply, then rushed away covering her face, looking extremely aggrieved.


    "She''s like this again, I''m really at a loss with her. How did I not notice before?"


    Seeing her pitiful appearance again, Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but smile wryly.


    Some people were just like this, only when things came to light could you see their repulsive true colors.


    "Not bad, I didn''t expect you could be this sharp with your words on set. You were so gentle towards everyone."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s tone was mocking, but her eyes showed distinct admiration for Rong Dai.


    "Thank you sister-inw!"


    Huo Mei Shu wasn''t ungrateful. Her gaze looking at Rong Dai was also full of admiration.


    Rong Dai smiled at her lightly: "I''ve said we''re one family, any problems can be solved together."


    She would also love those important to Shao Ting.


    As the three women were talking, the restaurant suddenly livened up. They looked over simultaneously.


    "Shi Ning?"


    Rong Dai''s eyes were sharp and she immediately spotted Shi Ning enter like the moon surrounded by stars, followed by her assistant.


    "Most of the traditional costumes or period costumes Director Feng used were coborations with Brocade Embroidery Workshop, he has a deep friendship with Grand Master Shi Yue, so he probably came to celebrate."


    Qiao Wanzhou was polished by Feng Kun so she knew more inside details, and exined to the two.


    Rong Dai also nodded. Although Director Feng had already left the industry, his connections were still resources.


    And someone of his age ced more importance on feelings, fame and fortune were already beyond them.


    "In recent years Brocade Embroidery Workshop has had a very aggressive growth, grasping the international market with one hand and the domestic market with the other. Now they even have their eyes on the entertainment industry. But the things produced by Brocade Embroidery Workshop are indeed exquisite, there really isn''t a domesticpany that canpare now."


    Huo Mei Shu chimed in.


    Rong Dai watched Shi Ning warmly greet these people with a smile. It went without saying Brocade Embroidery Workshop had a famous reputation.


    And her sister-inw''s words made her even more confident about the business she wanted to develop.


    In this era, no industry could monopolize the market.


    The early developers feast on meat, thete developers drink soup.


    Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s current momentum was indeed fierce.


    But she didn''t think they could stand at the top forever. If Grand Master Shi Yue was still leading, it might be difficult for domesticpanies to surpass them in the short term.


    But Shi Yue had nurtured someone of poor character.


    Shi Ning, who had giarized her work.


    Although it was just a small piece, it was enough to show her character.


    Shi Ning''s vision was too narrow. If Brocade Embroidery Workshop was handed over to her, it would be tantamount to limiting Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s development vision.


    "Sister-inw, why don''t you open a studio? I want to invest!"


    Huo Mei Shu suddenly turned to look at her, eyes shining as she asked.


    Rong Dai just smiled without responding. This was inevitable.


    She was very clear on her own skills.


    She didn''t have long term ns to develop in the entertainment industry. Making embroidery her career was what she wanted.


    "You can do embroidery too?"


    Qiao Wanzhou was a little surprised and looked her up and down.


    "Sister Qiao, the hundred year old quilt Grandma Qiao used for her birthday, it was my sister-inw''s handiwork! She studied design!"


    Huo Mei Shu exined.


    "I see, so that''s how it was. I thought my mom had custom ordered it from Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    Qiao Wanzhou realized.


    Seeing Qiao Wanzhou''s expression, Rong Dai''s heart sank.


    The feeling of being misunderstood like when Shi Ning had giarized her work rose in her heart again, further solidifying her intention of opening a studio.


    "I really didn''t expect you to have this skill, you''re full of surprises!"


    Qiao Wanzhou was very surprised.


    Embroidery wasn''t a simple matter like sewing on buttons. It required specialization. It wasn''t something you could truly master just by being able to pass a needle and thread.


    What kind of treasure had Huo Shaoting married?


    Rong Dai smiled lightly: "Looks like I still have to work hard, or I''ll keep being mistaken for Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    She felt dissatisfied by this.


    After all it was a field she was familiar with. Although others didn''t know the truth, this feeling of being misunderstood didn''t feel good.


    "If you open a studio, consider letting me invest. Although I can''t say I have the resources and connections like my master, there are still some ces I can put in a good word."


    Qiao Wanzhou flipped her hair confidently as she looked at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai nodded: "I won''t forget you."


    Of course she believed what Qiao Wanzhou said.


    She didn''t intend topete with Brocade Embroidery Workshop, it just happened that she was also in this profession, so futurepetition would be inevitable.


    So she needed to start umting her own connections and resources now.

 Chapter 205: Play a Song Together

    <h4>Chapter 205</h4>


    Shi Ning also did not expect Rong Dai to appear here. The moment she saw her, the smile on her face froze a little.


    She had not forgotten about the incident at the Qiao family.


    She had just casually acknowledged that embroidery, but Rong Dai had to take it so seriously.


    This made her very ufortable.


    But she also knew that she was in the wrong first, so she had no choice but to apologize first.


    If she had not met Rong Dai here today, she would have long forgotten about that incident.


    Rong Dai did not bother about that matter again.


    Since Shi Ning had already promised, she should know the consequences of breaking her word.


    Seeing that Rong Dai had no intention of acknowledging her, Shi Ning also did not speak, and continued greeting the people in the restaurant.


    Rong Dai''s thoughts were on starting her own studio after finishing filming.


    Although the three women sat together, they each had their own thoughts.


    Teacher Feng and the others came out when most people had arrived, and many people crowded around the teacher to greet him, wishing they could stick their faces together to get familiar with him.


    The restaurant banquet was very casual. Good food and wine had been prepared, so everyone just ate, drank, and chatted.


    "Miss Huo, may I ask you to perform a piece with me?"


    Just as the three women were lost in their own thoughts, Gu Chengyan suddenly walked up to Huo Mei Shu and asked her in a gentle and gentlemanly voice.


    Huo Mei Shu was so startled that she almost dropped her phone to the ground.


    Her cheeks flushed red all of a sudden, and she looked at Gu Chengyan in panic and delight, almost unable to believe it.


    Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou both frowned.


    "Gu Chengyan, this is my younger sister, don''t go too far."


    How could someone as smart as Qiao Wanzhou not know what Gu Chengyan intended?


    As for Huo Mei Shu herself, she still did not realize it.


    The male god asked her to perform together with him, wasn''t that a good thing?


    Rong Dai of course also saw Gu Chengyan''s intentions. He wanted to verify authenticity.


    "Sister Qiao, I regretfully missed Miss Huo''s recitalst time. This time it''s just a littlepensation."


    Gu Chengyan''s smile was gentle, but his eyes were cold and frosty.


    Rong Dai frowned. Seeing that her young sister-inw still had a confused look on her face, she couldn''t help sighing inwardly.


    It seemed that Miss Ye had not taken her previous words to heart.


    "Mr. Gu, my sister-inw is unwell today."


    Rong Dai spoke up. She would certainly not allow her young sister-inw to be humiliated.


    Her beautiful face wore a faint smile, but her beautiful eyes revealed a coldness and authority that made people shudder.


    "If Mr. Gu wants someone to perform with him, I know a little about music and can embarrass myself."


    She nced at Ye Liyun in the distance from the corner of her eye.


    Why should a woman make things difficult for another woman?


    Huo Mei Shu was no fool. Seeing Rong Dai and Qiao Wanzhou speak like this, her face did not look good either.


    "Senior Gu...I''m really not feeling well."


    As she spoke, she secretly clenched her fists.


    Ye Liyun!


    What exactly did she want to do?!


    Gu Chengyan''s eyes froze slightly as he nced at Huo Mei Shu, then agreed to Rong Dai''s request: "Alright, then I''ll have to trouble Mrs. Huo."


    Rong Dai smiled shallowly without saying anything more.


    No matter what Miss Ye had done, she must have nned it well.


    In such an asion, if her young sister-inw was put in an awkward situation, with her temperament she certainly would not be able to take it.


    She got up and walked elegantly over with Gu Chengyan.


    When Ye Liyun saw it was Rong Dai following Gu Chengyan over, her expression stiffened slightly.


    Rong Dai did not miss the sh of astonishment in her eyes, and said in a voice that only the three of them could hear: "It seems Miss Ye did not take my earlier words to heart."


    Her words made Ye Liyun''s face turn pale, and Gu Chengyan frowned slightly.


    Rong Dai did not say anything more. The restaurant was decorated in an antique style, with a corner filled with various musical instruments.


    She sat down and nced at Gu Chengyan: "Mr. Gu, please guide me."


    She really wanted to see how much ability this Mr. Gu had, to make her young sister-inw so infatuated with him.


    "I wouldn''t dare. How about the song ''Dreaming of Flowers, How Many Do I Know''?"


    Gu Chengyan also sat down, graceful and refined, giving off an aura that was aloof from the mundane world, very eye-catching.


    Rong Dai felt a chill in her heart. Her gaze sharply swept Ye Liyun - indeed it was her mischief.


    The tuning of the song was normal enough.


    But her young sister-inw''s mind was filled with thoughts of him. ying together was inevitably distracting, and one mistake would y right into their hands.


    That Miss Ye could easily clear her name, while her young sister-inw would get a reputation for jealousy.


    Everyone present knew Rong Dai, after all with her frequent trending topics in the capital, and every time for unsavory reasons.


    A wealthy madam who had just taken on the lead female role in this year''s big production, naturally attracted a lot of attention.


    Now seeing her about to perform with Gu Chengyan, the restaurant immediately quieted down, with all eyes on the two of them.


    "Mr. Gu, please start us off."


    Rong Dai motioned for the other party to take the lead.


    Gu Chengyan did not decline either, and started ying the qin.


    The tones of both qins were very good, and Gu Chengyan had studied Eastern ssical music, enjoying an extremely high reputation both domestically and abroad.


    Being able to hear him perform now was a great fortune.


    As soon as Gu Chengyan began, Rong Dai followed closely after.


    In fact, this song was not veryplicated, but the important thing was the expression of emotion within.


    This was a song of disappointment.


    Rong Dai''s qin skills were very aplished, ingrained deeply into her soul.


    So there was no issue of unfamiliarity.


    Although she had only seen the music score once, she hadmitted it to memory.


    Gu Chengyan''s qin skills were also very high. He was always trying to lead Rong Dai.


    But how could Rong Dai fall for that?


    This was the heart and soul of her young sister-inw. Since the other party wanted to embarrass her so much, she naturally had no need to be polite either.


    She made a few adjustments, imperceptible toymen but discernible to experts.


    These adjustments were ingenious.


    Ye Liyun had taken this song for her own, made unauthorized adjustments, then released it.


    Although it sounded harmonious, it would affect the integrity of the song, because she did not understand the state of mind of Rong Dai''s young sister-inw.


    But with Rong Dai''s experience from her past life, she could fully understand her young sister-inw''s feelings.


    Her adjustments were just right - they could point out Ye Liyun''s adjustments, while also expressing the emotions more richly.


    Hearing the two y, both Huo Mei Shu and Ye Liyun''s expressions changed.

 Chapter 206: Poor Means

    <h4>Chapter 206</h4>


    Both of them studied music, so of course they could hear the difference in this.


    No matter how foolish Huo Mei Shu was, she now understood the trap Ye Liyun had set for her!


    Having liked Gu Chengyan for so many years, she certainly knew what he detested most.


    The trap Ye Liyun had set for her was actually very superficial.


    But if she had agreed to go on stage just now, she would surely have fallen into it.


    Because the few ces where Ye Liyun had tuned hadn''t been discussed with her, and the version published online was another one.


    So the version of "Dreams Fall, Who Knows How Many" that Gu Chengyan was ying now was tuned by Ye Liyun herself, and presented to Gu Chengyan in an original way.


    Since Huo Mei Shu said this song was her creation, how could she not be familiar with the original score?


    Once she yed it wrong, ying the version now published online, or her own original version, she would fall into Ye Liyun''s trap.


    Musicians all hate piracy.


    Especially a genius like Gu Chengyan, who was even more disgusted by this kind of thing.


    If Huo Mei Shu had really yed, she would have directly cleared Ye Liyun of suspicion.


    The scheme was not ingenious, but it could make Gu Chengyan disgusted.


    Once Gu Chengyan was disgusted, Huo Mei Shu''s exnation would be useless.


    Huo Mei Shu understood, ring angrily at Ye Liyun in the distance.


    She hadn''t expected the gentle and charming girlfriend in front of her back then to be so vicious now!


    If he came to detest her, let alone a sessful confession, she was afraid she wouldn''t even have a chance to get close to him again!


    Rong Dai was proficient in the six arts, and even more so in understanding people''s hearts.


    That was why she would make this decision at the first moment.


    Hearing her y, the look in Gu Chengyan''s deep eyes changed subtly, and he nced meaningfully at Ye Liyun standing in the crowd.


    Who was lying, he was already clear in his heart.


    When the piece was over, the apuse in the restaurant was very enthusiastic.


    "I didn''t expect Mrs. Huo to be so proficient in music as well. She really can''t judge a person by appearance!"


    Someone in the crowd ttered her, and Rong Dai just smiled lightly, not answering much.


    She looked sharply at the pale-faced Ye Liyun.


    Such clumsy means when used against her would be ineffective.


    But they would be very effective when used against her sister-inw.


    Gu Chengyan was said to be tone-deaf because of his obsession with music.


    If Ye Liyun had proven that she hadn''t pirated her sister-inw''s score, but that her sister-inw was talking nonsense, the consequences could be imagined.


    "Thank you Mrs. Huo for gracing us, your musical attainment is very high," Gu Chengyanplimented her very gentlemanly, looking at her with great appreciation in his eyes.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, "Mr. Gu is exceptionally talented, I''m just dabblingpared to you."


    As she spoke, she paused, her beautiful eyes full of meaning as she looked at him, "I just didn''t expect Mr. Gu to be so different from the rumors, with extraordinary discernment in music, butcking in judging people."


    If it was someone else, they certainly wouldn''t have dared to say this, but Rong Dai did.


    Gu Chengyan didn''t get angry, but nodded with a smile, "Thank you for Mrs. Huo''s guidance, I will practice more in this area."


    The people below didn''t understand what the two of them were talking about.


    But Huo Mei Shu, Qiao Wanzhou and Ye Liyun understood very well, especially Ye Liyun.


    She hadn''t expected Huo Mei Shu to have such an amazing sister-inw. Her musical skills were alreadyparable to Gu Chengyan''s.


    She knew her little trick had failed.


    She looked at the sister-inw pair with unwillingness and a bit of irritation in her eyes.


    She just didn''t understand, they were already so rich, so why were they so against her?


    It was just a worthless little tune.


    Huo Mei Shu had money and talent, and was an heiress.


    Who wouldn''t she be able to marry in the future?


    Why did she have topete with her for Gu Chengyan?


    How much effort had she spent for today, only to see it all go up in smoke.


    Shi Ning, standing in the crowd, could see some of the twists and turns, although not understanding them fully.


    Seeing Ye Liyun leave quietly, she signaled her assistant to follow her out.


    She didn''t like Rong Dai either.


    Always grabbing the limelight like this.


    It was one thing at Old Lady Qiao''s birthday banquet, but here too she had to grab the limelight.


    She was married already, yet still so restless.


    She really didn''t know what Huo Shao Ting saw in her to marry her. This kind of restless woman would surely get into trouble sooner orter.


    After the performance, Rong Dai was also in no mood to stay on.


    Huo Mei Shu was even less in the mood.


    The two sisters-inw met Teacher Feng on Qiao Wanzhou��s introduction, greeted her briefly, then left the restaurant.


    "Sister-inw, I really didn''t expect a person could be so nasty," Huo Mei Shu said indignantly as they sat in the car.


    Rong Dai had the bodyguard drive back to the apartment,forting her as they went, "As long as we have a clear conscience, that''s enough. Go home, take a hot bath, and sleep, and you''ll feel better."


    Huo Mei Shu remained sullen. The two sisters-inw returned to the apartment, bid each other goodnight, then Huo Mei Shu went back to hers.


    Rong Dai sighed helplessly inwardly as she entered her own apartment, took a hot bath, then leaned against the bed reading her script while waiting to message Huo Shao Ting after he finished work.


    At the restaurant, Gu Chengyan and Jiang Xu sat together drinking.


    "She''s the girl you said has liked me for a long time?" Gu Chengyan asked Jiang Xu. The look in his deep eyes was like flickering starlight, with a distinctly aloof aura that made him unforgettable at first sight.


    Jiang Xu smiled wryly and nodded, "Yes, she... has liked you since middle school."


    I''ve liked her since middle school too.


    Gu Chengyan took a sip of wine, "Her sister-inw is very special, her musical attainment is high, so why does she insist on acting?"


    His tone was full of regret.


    Jiang Xu swallowed and cautiously reminded him, "Gu Chengyan, although you''re a genius in the music world, don''tpare yourself to Huo Shao Ting. Miss Rong is his wife, if you make trouble, you''ll suffer for it."


    Gu Chengyan chuckled lightly, looking a bit unruly, "I just appreciate her musical talent."


    Jiang Xu swept him a very speechless look, "Then what about Huo Mei Shu? She''s never had the courage to confess to you, and this time she was framed by her girlfriend, it''s a big blow to her."


    "If you don''t like her, let me know, and I''ll give her advance notice, rather than leaving her waiting indefinitely."


    In fact, he also wanted an early death sentence, to give himself some relief.


    Gu Chengyan nced at him lightly, and asked in return, "Do you like her?"


    Jiang Xu was immediately choked on his wine, "Cough cough cough... don''t put it so bluntly."


    "Then you have no chance," Gu Chengyan said very arrogantly, picking up his wine ss and leaving to talk to other people.


    Jiang Xu sat in his chair with a bewildered look on his face. What did he mean by that?


    Could it be that he likes Huo Mei Shu?


    But it doesn''t seem like it!

 Chapter 207: I鈥檝e Loved it since I was a Kid

    <h4>Chapter 207</h4>


    "Gu Chengyan, please listen to my exnation..."


    After the banquet in the restaurant, Ye Liyun had been waiting outside and hadn''t left yet. She came with Gu Chengyan, and she certainly didn''t want to go back alone.


    Gu Chengyan, with his extraordinary demeanor, nced at her coldly. "Miss Ye, what else do you want to exin?"


    Seeing his cold gaze, Ye Liyun instinctively took two steps back.


    Why is Gu Chengyan different from the rumors? His cold eyes are quite intimidating.


    "I... that piece of music..."


    She stammered, but when the words reached her lips, she didn''t know how to exin.


    Gu Chengyan looked at her coldly. "Miss Ye, if I were you, I wouldn''t have embarrassed myself with that piece of music."


    "You call me tone-deaf, but I''m not a fool."


    His voice was chilly, devoid of any tenderness.


    Thinking of Huo Meishu, that woman, he felt a bit helpless.


    He had given her the opportunity to exin herself, but he hadn''t expected her tock any backbone and let her sister-inw speak on her behalf.


    "Miss Ye, I am willing to talk to you because you are Huo Meishu''s best friend. I won''t like a girl like you, it has nothing to do with your identity, but it''s about your character."


    His words were cold and heartless.


    Ye Liyun was struck dumb, staring at him in disbelief.


    How could this be?


    "Don''t believe it?"


    Gu Chengyan chuckled lightly, his deep eyes containing a hint of cunning and recklessness.


    "I have liked Huo Meishu since we were young."


    He spoke seriously, with the same demeanor as usual.


    Ye Liyun''s face turned pale, and she staggered backward, only regaining her senses when she leaned against the cold wall.


    "But..."


    Since he liked her, why didn''t they get together?


    "Although the Gu family doesn''t interfere in business, we still have some connections with the Huo family. Otherwise, how do you think that little girl fell in love with me?"


    Gu Chengyan spoke frankly.


    He had been waiting, waiting for that little girl to speak up.


    But after waiting for more than twenty years, that little girl still hadn''te to her senses.


    He knew that she was the one whoposed that piece of music, and he knew she was in the film and television city.


    That''s why he deliberately brought Ye Liyun here, intending to give the little girl a chance. But the little girl turned out to be more timid than he had expected.


    She had the audacity to invite him to a concert butcked the courage to confess to him.


    Ye Liyun couldn''t believe her ears!


    Then what was she?


    Just a joke to be yed with?!


    "That''s right, I was ying with you. From beginning to end, I knew that piece of music wasposed by the little girl for me."


    Gu Chengyan said arrogantly, his eyes full of mockery as he looked at her.


    Ye Liyunpletely lost her footing and ended up sitting on the ground.


    "I originally wanted to help the little girl see you clearly, but she has someone powerful by her side, and her purpose has been achieved."


    Gu Chengyan adjusted his suit, his face wearing a smile, but it was cold.


    "You better figure out what you want to do, otherwise, I can still deal with you."


    As he spoke, he took the money from his assistant and threw it in front of Ye Liyun. "This is the money for your ne ticket back to Shengjing. Don''t appear in front of me again."


    After saying that, he got on the car and disappeared in a cloud of dust.


    Ye Liyun sat on the cold ground, shivering from head to toe.


    She had been yed!


    All her efforts, were they just a joke?!


    Back in her apartment, Huo Mei Shu didn''t even take a shower. She curled up in her nket, tears uncontrobly streaming down her face. Being betrayed and manipted was a terrible feeling.


    Huo Mei Shu had no idea about the things Gu Chengyan had said to Ye Liyun. She cried herself to sleep, feeling dazed and confused.


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting were on a video call, and when Rong Dai saw that he was still busyte at night, she felt extremely worried.


    "Shao Ting, get some rest."


    All she could do was touch the screen and advise him. Seeing him working so hard, she was even more anxious to return to his side, not wanting to be apart from him for a single moment.


    But she knew very well that with her current abilities, she still had a long way to go before she could stand shoulder to shoulder with him.


    Huo Shao Ting was busy signing documents, and he looked up at her with a gentle smile. "It''ll be over soon."


    Rong Dai nodded, her heart filled with concern as she watched him diligently working on the screen.


    Huo Shao Ting efficiently finished his work in just a dozen minutes and went to the top floor rest area with his phone.


    Only then did Rong Dai tell him about what happened that night, sounding very worried. "Shao Ting, I''m afraid Mei Shu will be devastated."


    Rong Dai never expected that she, who had never misjudged a person before, would fall for Gu Chengyan this time.


    But Huo Shao Ting just smiled. "You don''t have to worry about her. Let her do what she wants to do. We can''t make all the decisions for her. She has to experience these things on her own."


    It seemed like he had to bring this little sister back. If she stayed by his wife''s side, how could his wife handle her work?


    She was clearly causing trouble.


    Rong Dai nodded. Of course, she understood this reasoning.


    "You need an assistant by your side, and I''ve already found one for you. They should be able to join you tomorrow."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke up.


    Rong Dai nodded. "You can make the arrangements. But I don''t have any intention of staying in the entertainment industry for the long term. This film will be finished soon, so wouldn''t it be a bit wasteful?"


    Huo Shao Ting was well aware of her work schedule.


    Because he had arranged all her work, and her sister-inw was just helping with the execution.


    She had a nutritionist for her diet and received a lot of care on the set. She didn''t have any other work arrangements.


    After filming, she would focus on her studies. Having an assistant by her side wouldn''t make much of a difference for her.


    "Why would it be a waste?"


    Huo Shao Ting gently smiled as he exined, "You want to start your own studio, and you can''t be without an assistant. Building a brand and handling all that work will require a lot of effort. You need someone you can trust, someone who can work efficiently by your side."


    When they went to Hang City that day, although she didn''t clearly exin her career ns, he would fully support whatever she wanted to do.


    "This assistant is one in a million, and you will like them."


    He added with a smile, greedily gazing at her on the screen, his longing not concealed in his eyes.


    Rong Dai felt a warm sensation in her heart. She hadn''t expected him to care so much about her affairs.


    "When you return from the shoot, take a look at the selected studio locations and finalize your choice. I''ll have them renovated in advance."


    "Thank you, Huo Shao Ting."


    Her voice softly responded to him, and at this moment, she really wanted to lean on his chest.


    The feeling of being cherished in someone''s heart was truly wonderful.


    "Rest early. Don''t worry too much about Huo Mei Shu''s matters. It''s her own business, and it won''t help if you worry too much. I don''t want my woman to be so tired."


    Huo Shao Ting nced at his watch and realized it was alreadyte. Although he was reluctant to end the video call, he was more concerned about her sleep.


    Rong Dai also noticed the time. He had to handlepany matters and arrange things for her, which was very tiring.


    So she nodded and softly urged him, "You should sleep early too. I''ll be able to return to Shengjing next month."

 Chapter 208: Hardcore Assistant

    <h4>Chapter 208</h4>


    During this period of time, perhaps because of shooting the drama, Rong Dai was sleeping much more deeply.


    She was woken up by the doorbell in the morning.


    She took a look at the time, it was already eight o��clock.


    Thinking of the scenes to shoot in the afternoon, she jumped out of bed and hurried to open the door.


    "Are you Miss Rong Dai?"


    The one who rang the doorbell was a stranger woman.


    The woman had delicate features, dressed in professional attire, with a sharp light shining in her eyes.


    Rong Dai nodded, "May I ask who you are?"


    "It seems Mr. Huo hasn''t mentioned me to his wife yet."


    Lu Nianzhi smiled and took out her business card to give to her.


    "My name is Lu Nianzhi. I''m a senior assistant hired by Mr. Huo to be your assistant. During the contract renewal period, all your work schedules and career nning will be handled by me."


    Rong Dai looked at her business card, then sized up Lu Nianzhi in front of her.


    A senior assistant.


    She didn''t expect there would be such a job.


    Last night, Huo Shao Ting had mentioned this matter to her, although that was the case, she didn''t let Lu Nianzhi in immediately.


    "Please wait for a moment, I''ll make a call to confirm this."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, her eyes scanning the surroundings.


    "Shao Ting, is the assistant you hired for me called Lu Nianzhi?"


    Huo Shao Ting was already dealing with work. Seeing Rong Dai''s call, he signaled the meeting to pause and called Rong Dai back while continuing to handle work silently.


    Zhang Assistant sighed in his heart, as expected, the president treats things differently now that he has a wife, even someone like Lu Nianzhi was hired to be the wife''s assistant.


    One must know that Lu Nianzhi was the top assistant in the industry. She was proficient in a wide range of fields.


    Whether it was finance or business, she was very professional.


    She had been overseas all these years. Lu Nianzhi''s professional skills were very hardcore.


    Fluent in eight foreignnguages: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish and Arabic.


    Law, ounting, financial analysis, trantion, psychological counseling etc., she obtained international professional certificates in all these fields.


    No matter which field, she could adapt very quickly and efficiently assist her employer in handling work.


    After confirming with Huo Shao Ting over the call, Rong Dai finally let Lu Nianzhi in.


    "Miss Lu, would you like water or fruit juice?"


    Rong Dai asked her.


    She had been sizing up Lu Nianzhi, becausest night Huo Shao Ting used a word to describe Lu Nianzhi.


    One in a million.


    She was very curious about someone who Huo Shao Ting would evaluate this way.


    From her looks, Lu Nianzhi seemed to be only twenty eight or nine years old, exuding a sense of calm,petent and elite.


    Lu Nianzhi looked around her room. Hearing Rong Dai''s words, she replied, "Water, thanks."


    Then she opened the notebook in her hand, recording something unknown.


    "Have a seat first."


    Seeing her standing ramrod straight, Rong Dai spoke up while handing her the water.


    "Thank you."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, and sat down opposite her.


    "This is my resume. Miss Rong can take a look first. Next, I need to understand if you have any taboos or preferences in your life, as well as your work ns, so I can analyze the market and make the right ns for you. What do you think?"


    Lu Nianzhi held out the tablet to Rong Dai and went straight to the point as she spoke.


    Rong Dai nodded, looking at Lu Nianzhi��s resume on the tablet, very shocked by her education and expertise.


    Fluent in eightnguages, served three prime ministers and two presidents.


    She was also a financial analyst and legal advisor at an internationally renowned creativepany. To have someone with such outstanding achievements to be her assistant was a bit... overqualified.


    Rong Dai was actually feeling a little nervous.


    Lu Nianzhi seemed to see her thoughts. She sat very upright and smiled at Rong Dai.


    "Actually, I��ve been on vacation recharging these two years. The high-intensity work over the years has gained me a lot, but it has also taken a toll on my health."


    "To tell you the truth, I should call you sister-inw. I''m the adopted daughter of the Lu family, Lu Zheng is my nominal aunt."


    "Otherwise, if people from outside invited me back to serve as such a small assistant, I would most likely think they were joking with me."


    "But Mr. Huo is different. I trust his judgment. I''m also very interested in nning your career. The fields you are involved in are novel and unfamiliar to me. I''ve been dealing with numbers all these years, but never ventured into the fashion industry before."


    Lu Nianzhi''s exnation surprised Rong Dai. She didn''t expect that Lu Nianzhi would be the adopted daughter of the Lu family.


    "So, sister-inw, don''t be nervous. I showed you my resume to make you trust my professionalism and feel at ease handing your work over to me."


    "In fact, my past resume doesn''t mean much to me now. What''s important is what to do in the future. I''ve been in finance for years and am really tired of it."


    "In the future, sister-inw can call me Nianzhi. Calling me Miss Lu feels a bit distant. I hope we have a pleasant cooperation."


    Hearing Lu Nianzhi say this, Rong Dai felt much more at ease.


    Otherwise, with Lu Nianzhi''s resume by her side, it would be a bit pressuring.


    "Then I look forward to our pleasant cooperation."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. Then she flipped open her notebook and asked Rong Dai questions seriously.


    Looking at Lu Nianzhi dealing with these matters so earnestly and professionally, Rong Dai sincerely admired the women of this era.


    "Alright, I''ve understood your preferences and the general direction of your career nning."


    Lu Nianzhi nced at her notebook and looked up at Rong Dai.


    "Your most important job right now is shooting the drama. Based on your scenes, I estimate you can finish by the end of March."


    "This afternoon you have two scenes, the workload is not too heavy."


    "Mr. Huo mentioned to me that you are still a student on leave from school. ording to your leave time, you have to go back to school next September. So before career nning, we need to deal with your academic issues first."


    "Next I will organize the things you need to handle now and the details to be included in future nning. After you review, we can finalize the details. What do you think?"


    Lu Nianzhi expressed it very clearly.


    Rong Dai nodded. Having such a professional assistant by her side, her anxiety was reduced a lot.


    "Then, to facilitate assisting you, this is my personal number. Please save it."


    Lu Nianzhi opened her phone and called Rong Dai.


    Seeing the caller ID, Rong Dai saved it.


    At this time, Huo Mei Shu had gone to get breakfast from the nutritionist. When she came in and saw Lu Nianzhi, she was stunned.


    "Sister Nianzhi? When did youe back?"


    Lu Nianzhi smiled lightly, "Just arrived not long ago."


    "I was going to go see you when I go abroad. Haven''t seen youe back these two years, I missed you so much!"


    Huo Mei Shu put down the thermal box and rushed towards Lu Nianzhi.


    Lu Nianzhi smiled, "From now on you''ll have plenty of time to see me. I came back to be sister-inw''s assistant."


    "Really?! My big brother actually got you toe back!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes widened in shock.

 Chapter 209: Differences of Opinion

    <h4>Chapter 209</h4>


    Knowing that Lu Nianzhi hade to assist Rong Dai, Huo Mei Shu didn''t mind at all.


    After all, she knew it wasn''t her area of expertise.


    Moreover, Lu Nianzhi was one of the people she admired, so having both of them working together was a great blessing!


    Lu Nianzhi was highly efficient in handling the work, and in the afternoon, Rong Dai''s two scenes went smoothly.


    Huo Mei Shu received a WeChat message from her idol, Gu Chengyan, which made her ecstatic, so she busily attended to her own matters.


    Lu Nianzhi summarized and nned Rong Dai''s current work, while Rong Dai continued her studies.


    The day passed by peacefully and fulfilling.


    The next day, Lu Nianzhi had Rong Dai review the detailed guidelines.


    Rong Dai carefully looked at the guidelines, especially when she saw that Lu Nianzhi had made a rxed n for her studies, she furrowed her brows.


    Not only did Lu Nianzhi have exceptional professional abilities, but she was also adept at reading people''s expressions.


    "If there''s anything you''re not satisfied with, we can discuss it. I''m here to assist you, and we canmunicate and resolve any issues," Lu Nianzhi said.


    Rong Dai took a pen and circled two guidelines.


    "First, I have a strong ability to learn, and I don''t want my studies to be too rxed. I can handle intense learning tasks," she said.


    She wasn''t a young girl in her early twenties anymore; she couldn''t afford to waste time.


    She wanted to study and maintain efficient learning abilities at all times.


    However, investing a lot of time in education in this era didn''t suit her circumstances.


    She was no longer a simple university student.


    She was a wife and an entrepreneur.


    She could only look up to Huo Shao Ting from her current position.


    She didn''t want to constantly remain in a posture of looking up to him; she wanted to stand by his side.


    Moreover, she wasn''t enthusiastic about this campus life.


    Competition in any era was fierce.


    Today, Jinxiu Lane was already very eye-catching. What she needed to do was treat it as her goal and surpass it.


    So she couldn''t allocate nearly two-thirds of her time to campus life.


    "Second, I don''t want to stay in this circle for a long time."


    She had only been here for a few months, and the online mobs and keyboard warriors had repeatedly made her realize how terrifying public opinion could be.


    Moreover, she disliked the need to constantly protect her privacy and the exposure of her private life to the public eye.


    "Other than that, I have no issues. My focus is not on my studies but on developing my career," Rong Dai expressed her thoughts clearly without any reservations.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, made notes, and then looked at her attentively as she analyzed her words.


    "I allocated time for your studies considering your learning capabilities. Since you don''t have any issues, once I finalize the guidelines for your studies, we can proceed with the n."


    "But entering the entertainment industry, if you don''t want to rely on the Huo Corporation and solely rely on your own abilities, your career won''t have enough exposure. At least for the next ten years, you won''t be able to catch up with the brilliance of Jinxiu Square."


    She stared sharply at Rong Dai.


    In Rong Dai, she saw her former self.


    So determined, with such a clear goal.


    "Entering the showbiz industry doesn''t necessarily mean that you have to take on acting roles. It means maintaining a certain level of poprity, an appropriate level of fame that can increase the exposure of your work."


    "Jinxiu Square is currently the giant in this domestic market. If you don''t have any capital to your name, even if you have the talent, without the backing of the Huo Corporation, you won''t be able to secure resources that can match Jinxiu Square."


    At this point, Lu Nianzhi paused, looking deeply into Rong Dai''s eyes.


    "Of course, this is just my personal advice. In the long run, your current status itself is a form of poprity, but fame doesn''tst forever. Once the public epts this fact, the halos surrounding you will fade away."


    "Jinxiu Square''s ability to stand tall domestically and internationally is not unrted to their business philosophy."


    "Mrs. Huo, your ideas are good, but you don''t really understand this industry."


    "If you want to surpass Jinxiu Square, apart from having excellent works, resources are crucial."


    Deep down, Lu Nianzhi actually admired Rong Dai''s ideas.


    However, this era is fast-paced and efficient, and Rong Dai''s ideas, while good, are not applicable.


    "Poprity, works, and sales are what determine whether your future career can reach new heights. Jinxiu Square has achieved such dazzling results because you don''t know about their development history. Before Master Shi Yue, her mother was an embroiderer who worked in the imperial pce."


    "Having excellent works, pure handcrafted custom designs that are truly one-of-a-kind. Although they are highly acimed in the industry, the sales are too low, and the efficiency of producing the works is too slow. These are all influencing factors."


    Rong Dai listened attentively as Lu Nianzhi analyzed these issues, and her heart sank a little.


    She hadn''t considered this aspect.


    She wanted her works to be presented perfectly, and even to amodate some more niche groups.


    But she overlooked a factor, which is the speed of production and cost issues.


    "Before taking on this job, I conducted research. There are not many truly outstanding embroiderers in China and abroad, even for a high-end brand like Jinxiu Square, they only have twenty top embroiderers in-house."


    "Your ideas are good, but you''re neglecting social factors, so your vision of high-cost, purely handcrafted production for the entire collection is impossible."


    Lu Nianzhi''s words left Rong Dai silent, realizing that achieving her dream wasn''t something that could be done through wishful thinking.


    "Rong Dai, you need to understand that even at the level of Jinxiu Square, they don''t dare to have such a vision. You have to consider the social factors, and I will assist you in your work."


    "First of all, it''s indeed because of General Huo. I owe him a favor. Second, I appreciate your ideas and see ambition in you, so I want to give it a try."


    "Between you and me, it''s a mutual aplishment. If you treat this as a career, the chances of your vision seeding are almost zero. But if you simply manage it as a hobby, the sess rate is one hundred percent."


    Lu Nianzhi spoke very seriously.


    She had heard General Huo Shao Ting''s exnation, so she was really looking forward to meeting Rong Dai at that time.


    However, after thismunication, she found that Rong Dai did indeed have ambition, but her considerations were not realistic enough.


    "You can take some time to think about what I said. If you only want to pursue design as a hobby, then your ideas are fine."


    "But if you want to make it a career and develop towards Jinxiu Lane, it''s almost futile. Even if you have Huo Enterprises behind you and your abilities are strong, you can''t guarantee that everyone else has the same level of ability. An individual''s capabilities are limited, so don''t neglect the factors of reality."

 Chapter 210: She Just Won鈥檛 Let It Go

    <h4>Chapter 210</h4>


    "I''m not saying this to discourage you, but to help you understand the difference between a career and a hobby. They are two different things."


    "If you want to surpass the Splendid Workshop, you need to let the data speak, and data is built upon the quality of your work and sales."


    "Think carefully and rify what you truly want. While having good ideas is important, you must also consider practical factors. Otherwise, forgive me for being blunt, but you would be just dreaming."


    "I haven''t signed the contract yet, and until you have thought this through, the contract won''t take effect. It''s gettingte now, so I won''t disturb your rest."


    Lu Nianzhi exined earnestly and clearly, ncing at her wristwatch. Rong Dai took her notebook and stood up, acknowledging the instructions.


    After seeing Lu Nianzhi off, Rong Dai sat on the sofa and stared into space for a long time.


    Lu Nianzhi''s words kept echoing in her mind.


    Indeed, she had overlooked practical factors.


    Her desire was for everyone to wear the clothes she designed, showcasing the essence of the East and the charm of embroidery.


    But she had neglected her own abilities.


    This was not the ancient court where everyone focused solely on the royal family.


    Works, sales, and poprity.


    These were the data that determined the height of her career.


    She couldn''t ignore this aspect.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but feel lost, wondering if her past expectations were too idealistic.


    She felt perplexed, conflicted, and a little unwilling.


    ncing at the time, she realized Huo Shao Ting was still working. She couldn''t constantly disturb his work.


    Considering Lu Nianzhi''s words, she searched the inte for a few internationally renowned brands.


    Apart from high-end custom-made garments, there were very few works that were entirely handcrafted.


    Handcrafted pieces were either high-end custom-made or limited editions.


    Due to the high cost ofbor, they were not in line with the demands of this era.


    Instant gratification.


    That was one of the buzzwords of this era.


    This was an era of high-endmercial development and efficient scientific application.


    She had overlooked this point.


    Outside, the sky quickly darkened. The city lights came to life, illuminating numerous households. Rong Dai stood by the French window, embracing herself, and struggled internally.


    The dichotomy between handcrafting and machinery waged a battle in her mind, causing her a headache. She had to open a bottle of red wine and take a few sips.


    She continued silently browsing the inte, pondering over Lu Nianzhi''s words, and reviewing the operating model of the Splendid Workshop.


    Sighing, she realized that her ideas were indeed too naive and absurd.


    Even top international brands didn''t dare to operate in such a manner. Even if there were such brands, they kept a low profile.


    Exposure and sales could never match those of top international brands, which also contradicted her original intention.


    She was unwilling to let her craftsmanship be buried like this.


    She genuinely loved the art of embroidery. Any beautiful pattern, as long as it was visible, could be intricately embroidered stitch by stitch onto soft fabric, showcasing its unique beauty.


    In the evening, Huo Mei Shu brought her dinner.


    "Sister-inw, why don''t you turn on the lights?"


    Huo Meishu walked into the room and, seeing it was dark, instinctively turned on the lights and asked Rong Dai a question.


    Rong Dai let out a long sigh and said, "I''ve encountered some troubling matters."


    "What happened? Is it work-rted?" Huo Meishu quickly inquired.


    She had been preupied with her own happiness today and hadn''t paid much attention to her sister-inw''s affairs.


    Rong Dai hesitated for a moment, sat down at the dining table, and looked at her younger sister-inw as she took out the nutritious meal from the insted box. She then shared with Huo Meishu what Lu Nianzhi had told her and her own thoughts.


    Huo Meishu listened attentively, sitting across from her, and pondered for a while before speaking.


    "Sister-inw, to be honest, Nianzhi''s perspective is not wrong."


    "Your ideas are not wrong either, but they do overlook certain practical factors."


    Huo Meishu analyzed the situation earnestly.


    "If it were just ten or twenty people, it would be manageable. But what if it were a hundred people? And what if the orders requiredpletion within a month?"


    "Sister-inw, although I don''t understand embroidery, I do know that most people don''t have the time or inclination to wait, unless it''s something they absolutely can''t do without."


    "Besides, there are too many alternative options avable now."


    "If you want to make it a trend andpete with those top-notch brands, Nianzhi''s n is more rational and reasonable."


    "Sister-inw, your vision is a bit too idealistic."


    Huo Meishu was already speaking quite politely. Handmade items not only require manpower but also consume the consumers'' time, which can make them lose patience.


    "In fact, sister-inw, there''s no need to be discouraged. You''re so talented, and your aim is to allow more people to appreciate the essence and charm of our Chinese culture. And that doesn''t necessarily have to be achieved solely through handmade products."


    "I actually think epting the traditional business model is not a bad thing. What matters most is the brand''s concept and the excellence of the works."


    "Whether it''s clothing, food, housing, or transportation,fort and satisfaction are the most important factors."


    "If I really love a particr piece, I can wait for two or three months, or even half a year. But if it requires one or two years of waiting, that''s too long. By then, the sense of anticipation in my heart would have long been extinguished."


    "Ultimately, what''s important is the quality of the work. Traditional-style garments have their own heritage, but as Nianzhi said, practical considerations must be taken into ount."


    Huo Meishu patiently expressed her viewpoint.


    Rong Dai listened attentively while eating her meal.


    "Sister-inw, your embroidery skills are exquisite, but you can''t guarantee that every embroiderer will be as skilled as you. Moreover, with so many people worldwide, if everyone wanted a handmade item, it would probably be impossible even if the universe were to copse."


    "So, in that regard, I agree with Nianzhi. Unless you''re treating this as a hobby, there''s no issue."


    Huo Meishu paused for a moment and added a few more words.


    Rong Dai nodded, understanding her younger sister-inw''s implication. She was just a little unwilling to ept it.


    "Well then, sister-inw, rest early. I''ll head back now."


    Rong Dai nodded and tidied up the dishes and chopsticks after finishing her meal.


    Just as she was about to call Huo Shao Ting, the phone rang. It was him.


    "Shao Ting..." she spoke, her voice trailing off with a hint of mncholy.


    "Feeling down? Did something happen during the shoot?" Huo Shao Ting, knowing her well, worriedly inquired upon hearing her voice.


    Rong Dai let out a gentle sigh and proceeded to tell him about the discussion she had with Lu Nianzhi today.


    "Shao Ting, I just can''t help but feel a bit unwilling. Those embroideries are truly beautiful, and I hope more people can experience the charm of embroidery."


    She ended with a somewhat resentful sigh.

 Chapter 211: The Work itself is the strength

    <h4>Chapter 211</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting was a businessman, so he certainly knew that Lu Nianzhi''s analysis and nning was very rational.


    While his wife''s ideas were indeed too idealistic, to put it bluntly, they were too naive.


    International top brands don''t even dare to use the term "pure handmade" to attract eyeballs, after all the online consumers nowadays are not fools to be fooled so easily.


    But he didn''t refute her immediately, or analyze anything with Rong Dai. Instead, he urged her not to think about this for now, and focus onpleting the filming of this drama first.


    Rong Dai was full of mncholy in her heart. Even if Huo Shao Ting didn''t say it, she was very clear in her heart.


    Huo Shao Ting was a businessman, and he agreed with Lu Nianzhi''s n.


    He didn''t refute her probably because he was afraid she would be hurt.


    After hanging up the phone with Huo Shao Ting, she pulled the quilt over her head and took a long nap, temporarily not thinking about this matter.


    After Huo Shao Ting hung up the phone, he called Zhang Assistant.


    Zhang Assistant, who was just about to get intimate with his beloved wife, was very miserable. He could only grit his teeth and get up to contact vendors for Huo Shao Ting and make appointments with them.


    The next day Rong Dai got up, had breakfast, and went to the set.


    The atmosphere between Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing on the set was a bit strange, but fortunately both of them were very capable of restraining themselves, so the filming was not affected.


    Moreover, Rong Dai was not an artist. With her thorough understanding of the script and characters, as long as it was her shots, the number of NGs was very small, and every scene went very smoothly.


    At night, she was the first to finish work, leading other actors.


    When she returned to the apartment, she found Huo Shao Ting wearing an apron in the kitchen cooking soup for her. She quickly changed her shoes and asked him in surprise, "Shao Ting, why are you here?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked back at her fondly, "Go wash your hands. Dinner will be ready soon."


    How could he not know clearly her mncholy and contradictions in her heart? Of course he had toe.


    Rong Dai was a little hungry too. She obediently went to the bathroom to wash her hands. When she came out, Huo Shao Ting had moved the stewed soup and dishes onto the dining table, so she took out bowls and chopsticks.


    "You still haven''t told me why you came."


    After sitting down to eat, Rong Dai couldn''t help asking him.


    Thepany was also very busy, and she felt sorry that he had to fly here and there like this.


    "You''ll know tomorrow."


    Huo Shao Ting deliberately aroused her curiosity. Rong Dai tried to ask two more times, but seeing him keep mum, she simply didn''t ask any more.


    After dinner, Rong Dai did not forget to study English. She sat at the desk and did her homework carefully.


    Huo Shao Ting sat on the sofa dealing withpany emails. He nced up at her several times, and saw that she didn''t even look at him once. He felt a little frustrated in his heart.


    When this little woman was busy, she could even ignore him.


    He closed hisptop, walked behind her, put his arms around her, and rubbed her earlobe with his lips.


    His warm breath sprayed her neck, and Rong Dai couldn''t help blushing. Her back felt sour and itchy. She turned her head to look at him, and pleaded in a soft voice, "Just a little bit left and I''ll be done."


    "Mmm..."


    He gave her a resonant nasal sound, very maically.


    Rong Dai originally intended to finish thest two questions, but Huo Shao Ting hugging her and breathing on her neck and ears gave her a numb tingling feeling that made it difficult for her to concentrate.


    She simply put down her pen and put the test paper aside.


    She turned her head, took the initiative to put her hands on his shoulders, and pretended to be ignorant and asked him, "Mr. Huo, what do you want to do?"


    Huo Shao Ting gazed deeply into her eyes and answered gently and indulgently with his maic voice, "I want to swallow you up..."


    There was yfulness and cunningness in Rong Dai''s eyes. "Cannibalism is illegal..."


    "Eating my wife is not illegal..."


    Huo Shao Ting was delighted by her little trick to please him. After answering her, he picked her up horizontally in his arms and walked towards the big bed...


    The next day, Rong Dai woke up with sore limbs and red at the man beside her, but her heart was rippling with sweetness.


    Huo Shao Ting stroked her cheek and said gently, "Sleep a little longer. I''ll make breakfast for you."


    Rong Dai shook her head. She had been sleeping a lot recently.


    "Where are you taking me today?"


    She didn''t forget his purpose ofing here.


    Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help smiling. He leaned down and kissed her forehead, "You''ll know when we get there."


    Seeing that he still didn''t say, Rong Dai had to get up resignedly to wash up.


    After having breakfast, the bodyguards drove while the couple sat holding hands in the back seat.


    As soon as she got in the car, Rong Dai wanted to sleep again. Huo Shao Ting took a nket and wrapped her up, letting her pillow her head on hisp to rest.


    When Rong Dai woke up, they had already arrived in the neighboring city, Su City.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t exin anything. He took her to a factory.


    "The textile industry in Su City is the leading enterprise in the country. Mechanized production does not necessarily mean worse than pure handwork. The key is the choice."


    "I have contacted the person in charge of this factory. He can take you to visit their internal production line. Embroidery by machine has be more and more outstanding in recent years. What really matters is the work itself."


    "I don''t deny the excellence of embroidery skills, butrge-scale production is something manpower cannot achieve."


    "Lu Nianzhi''s n is very correct. I know what you want to insist on. But even if you choose machine embroidery for mass production, this will not conflict with your ideals. The work itself is the real strength."


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand. The person in charge of the factory had been waiting there long ago.


    Seeing the coupleing, he was going to let them go to the reception room for hot tea first, but Rong Dai wanted to see the production line first.


    The person in charge did not stop her and enthusiastically took the couple to visit, exining very carefully.


    Rong Dai listened very carefully and watched the integrated machinery. The daily output was considerable.


    "Mrs. Huo, please take a look. These are ourtest products for the new season, internal samples. We have been cooperating with Brocade Embroidery Workshop, a top domestic brand. Please rest assured that the quality of our products is absolutely guaranteed."


    The person in charge said very seriously and proudly.


    Rong Dai nodded. She had seen the products of Brocade Embroidery Workshop, which were indeed excellent.


    She looked at the samples in her hand. Although they were embroidered by machine, the workmanship was much more exquisite than ordinary ones.


    The person in charge introduced them very seriously, and took the couple to visit the mechanical equipment, exining the characteristics of these machines.


    Rong Dai listened very carefully.


    She had been insisting on pure handmade embroidery before, firstly because the hand embroidery gave a "soul" to a work.


    This was what she believed to be craftsmanship.


    Secondly, she wanted to showcase the charm of embroidery.


    But now after the visit, the products embroidered by machines were equally exquisite.


    Just as Huo Shao Ting said, the excellence was in the work itself first, and the craft second.


    The craft was important, of course, but the integrity of a work involved many elements, not just the craft.

 Chapter 212: Then don鈥檛 you Cry

    <h4>Chapter 212</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting took her to visit several of the best factories in Su City, and Rong Dai''s insistence in her heart was also put down.


    The excellence of the embroidery also allowed her to see the charm of embroidery.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    Sitting in the back row, she took the initiative to climb up Huo Shao Ting''s neck and kissed his profile, gently saying.


    The confusion and struggle hidden in her heart yesterday, she has now suddenly be clear.


    This is all thanks to this man''s thoughtfulness. He didn''t say too much to her, but directly took her to visit.


    He used the most intuitive data to tell her what to do.


    She was very d that he could treat her so thoughtfully.


    "Is that all? Mrs. Huo, your reward is a bit small."


    Seeing the smile on her face, Huo Shao Ting raised his eyebrows and said in a slightly raised voice, obviously dissatisfied with such a reward.


    Rong Dai rarely took such initiative. Hearing him say this, her cheeks flushed red, and her beautiful eyes looked at him shyly and softly answered him, "A lifetime, is it enough?"


    "Enough..."


    Huo Shao Ting answered her with satisfaction, raised his hand to caress her cheeks, lowered his head and sought a kiss on her lips.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks instantly turned as red as a ripe tomato, her heart was beating wildly, and she subconsciously covered her chest with her hands.


    Seeing the fullness of her chest, a certain someone subconsciously moved his Adam''s apple.


    Rong Dai saw it clearly, and her beautiful eyes looked at him slyly and yfully. Her slender fingers stroked his lower abdomen a little restlessly.


    Huo Shao Ting''s deep eyes were full of passion. He stared at her deeply and said in a slightly hoarse voice, "Mrs. Huo, you are ying with fire."


    Rong Dai''s mouth curled up, her beautiful eyes looked at him with a smile, leaned to his ear, and lightly licked his earlobe as he had licked hers.


    "I''m not afraid of you..."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t expect her to be so bold, and at the same time he was extremely delighted in his heart.


    Because his Mrs. Huo finally took this step.


    He sped her slender waist with his big hand, his breathing a little heavy, and responded to her in a low voice, "Is that so? Don''t cry tonight..."


    Rong Dai''s heart raced, her cheeks flushed, and when she saw the seriousness in his eyes, she was so scared that she hurriedly retracted her hand and sat back properly.


    As if the slyness and yfulness just now had dazzled Huo Shao Ting.


    "Not daring anymore?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s mouth curled with a smile, his eyes looking at her yfully, his voice mixed with lightughter.


    Rong Dai red at him angrily and turned her head to look out the car window in annoyance.


    After calming down for a few seconds, she thought of what Lu Nianzhi had told her before, and she became a little nervous again.


    "Shao Ting, what do you think of Lu Nianzhi''s n?"


    She had promised grandma and mother-inw before that she would only take this one drama, and would not set foot in the entertainment industry afterwards.


    Although it was only a short few months, the ups and downs in this circle, she had experienced it all.


    If it wasn''t for her hanging the title of "Mrs. Huo", she would probably have been ckened by now!


    And the Huo family, as such a prominent family, cared a lot about their reputation.


    She didn''t want to break her promise.


    But if she didn''t maintain her poprity, her work couldn''t be exposed, it would be very difficult to catch up with Jinxiu Workshop''s pace.


    "It''s very correct."


    Seeing her ask about work, Huo Shao Ting switched back to his state in a second.


    The bodyguard driving in the front row was extremely relieved to see the couple stop being lovey-dovey.


    "But... if I can''t maintain my poprity, if I don''t rely on the title of Mrs. Huo, if I don''t rely on the Huo Group''s help, it will be very difficult for me to reach the height I want."


    As a youngdy from a prominent family in her previous life, she knew very well the benefits that power could bring.


    If she made use of the Huo Group''s power, she could surpass Jinxiu Workshop in a short period of time.


    But that was not what she wanted.


    What she wanted was to rely on her own ability to stand by his side, to bask in his halo.


    Rather than when people mentioned her, all that was left were words like "she is Huo Shao Ting''s wife", "young mistress of a prominent family".


    She wanted to hear her own namee out of other people''s mouths, not the glory bestowed on her by the Huo family''s halo.


    "I understand grandma and mother''s meaning. The gossip in the entertainment industry can disturb the tranquility of life too easily. I don''t want to do it myself, but if my career needs it, I might...give up some insistence."


    There are gains and losses.


    She understood this truth better than anyone else.


    You can''t have your cake and eat it too, not even emperors could do that.


    Huo Shao Ting listened to her quietly and saw the worry in her eyes. He reached out and took her slender hand.


    "I said that no matter what you do, I will be your biggest supporter. Don''t worry too much. I will exin to grandma and mother. You don''t need to be under any pressure."


    The light on her was not only for him alone.


    But her tenderness and beauty belonged to him alone.


    To protect her beauty, he was willing to make the greatest effort to support her.


    Rong Dai held his hand tightly and lowered her eyes to look at his gentle palm.


    The gentleness and thoughtfulness of this man left her speechless, as if anything she said would be superfluous.


    "Shao Ting, I will stand by your side sooner."


    His support, the Huo family''s warmth.


    These were the driving force for her to move forward, and the precious things she needed to protect.


    "I''ll wait for you." The man gently answered her with three words.


    Although it was just three simple words, it was as heavy as a thousand pounds.


    The couple returned to the apartment that evening. Rong Dai did not rush to see Lu Nianzhi, but first sorted out the details she wanted by herself.


    Huo Shao Ting went on to cook in the kitchen.


    After Rong Dai finished this, the dishes were also on the table.


    After the meal, Rong Dai called Lu Nianzhi to confirm the time to meet tomorrow.


    Huo Shao Ting took the initiative to hug her waist from behind, his thin lips gently licking her soft earlobe, his voice seductively asked her, "Mrs. Huo, do you still remember what you said today?"


    Rong Dai was immediately on high alert. She was purely teasing him this morning!


    "Shao Ting, I..."


    "I took every word you said seriously."


    Huo Shao Ting replied to her, and his fiery kiss fell ordingly.


    Rong Dai couldn''t withstand his passion, and after a few rounds she pleaded with tears, the more she was like this, the more Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened and cherished her.

 Chapter 213: Career Planning

    <h4>Chapter 213</h4>


    The next day, the winter sun was at its most beautiful, adding a touch of softness to the deste winter.


    When Rong Dai woke up, her whole body ached. Thinking back to Huo Shao Ting''s passion and madnessst night, she couldn''t help but tremble all over.


    She thought that as their feelings grew deeper, this passion would turn into a gentle,sting affection.


    But every time she was with him, the pounding of her heart was still like the very first time.


    And his passion grew more and more intense each time.


    The other side of the bed was already empty. She nced at the time - it was almost nine o''clock already.


    Rong Dai hurriedly climbed out of bed to wash up. She was halfway through washing when Huo Shao Ting came in.


    "Do you want to sleep a little longer? You''ve been a bit tiredtely."


    Huo Shao Ting put his arms around her waist from behind, looking at their close reflections in the mirror. His voice was gentle as he asked.


    No one knew her body better than him.


    "It''s probably because I''ve had a lot of action scenes to shoottely. Don''t worry, I''ll rest well for a while after filming wraps up."


    Rong Dai shook her head. She didn''t have that many scenes now.


    She had seen the shooting schedule. At most there were only five scenes a day.


    She wasn''t a full-time entertainer, so her workload was much more rxed.


    Huo Shao Ting murmured in acknowledgment and kissed her earlobe, instructing her that breakfast was ready before leaving.


    After Rong Dai had washed up ande out, she saw a sumptuous yet nutritious breakfast on the dining table.


    Seeing that Huo Shao Ting still had an apron tied around his waist, and thinking of his serious and stern manner when handling work in the office,pared to his gentle, domestic appearance now, the difference was simply huge.


    This man had given all his tenderness to her.


    She had let go of the arrogance in her bones from her past life. He was her husband.


    Here, she could freely express her feelings as she wished.


    She didn''t want to restrain herself. Some things, some realizations, perhaps only came in a fleeting moment.


    If she suppressed them and didn''t express them, perhaps when she wanted to feel that way again, it wouldn''t be the original feeling anymore.


    Love needed to be expressed in a timely manner.


    Sometimes if you missed the chance, it would be missed for a lifetime.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    She went up and put her arms around his waist, not bothered by the smell of oil and smoke on him, and leaned her head against his chest. Her voice was soft and tender as she spoke.


    She still wasn''t used to calling him "husband".


    But Huo Shao Ting didn''t mind either. Hearing her call him that word at a certain moment would probably feel even more wonderful.


    He looked down at her with a smile on his handsome face, and his voice was exceptionally gentle. "Eat breakfast first, or else I''ll eat you first..."


    Rong Dai''s heart had been full of softness, but hearing him say this, the image of herself fromst night, weeping and begging for mercy, rose in her mind. She red resentfully at him and sat down at the dining table.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her indulgently and smiled, thoughtfully serving her porridge.


    The husband and wife had their yful breakfast, and the morning passed by quickly.


    Huo Shao Ting was taking a noon flight back. After sending him off, Rong Dai felt empty inside.


    That feeling of having nowhere to put herself made her feel very lost. Only when he was by her side did she feel grounded and at ease.


    But she still had work. Taking a deep breath, she adjusted her state of mind and went back to the apartment.


    ncing at the clock on the wall, she went to the kitchen to make tea. She had just set it down on the coffee table when the doorbell rang.


    Lu Nianzhi was still in her stylish, professional attire, looking cool and capable.


    "Have some tea first."


    Rong Dai motioned for her to drink tea, while she went to get the n she had madest night and looked through it carefully before handing it to Lu Nianzhi.


    "Sister Nianzhi, this is the n I made. Take a look first, and we can discuss it."


    Lu Nianzhi looked at her in surprise. After all, Rong Dai had never called her "Sister Nianzhi" before.


    Rong Dai had a faint smile on her charming face. Lu Nianzhi was family, she didn''t need to be overly polite.


    Besides, she believed in Lu Nianzhi''s professionalism.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, put down her teacup, and looked carefully at the n Rong Dai had given.


    When she saw the time allocated for learning, she couldn''t help frowning slightly. She was a little worried about such a packed learning schedule.


    Learning wasn''t about gaining something proportional to the amount of time spent.


    Rather, it was about absorbing knowledge efficiently. Otherwise, no matter how much time was spent, the gains wouldn''t be directly proportional.


    She didn''t bring it up immediately, and continued looking through Rong Dai''s n.


    When she saw the nning and design for the studio, approval showed in her eyes.


    She had encountered many extremely demanding employers before, although some had listened to her opinions, the vast majority had insisted on their own views.


    After all, her profession was very rare, it was normal not to believe her.


    But she had just finished analyzing with Rong Dai the day before yesterday, and today she had already made adjustments.


    Seeing that Lu Nianzhi had basically finished reading it, Rong Dai spoke up, "Yesterday Shao Ting and I went to tour the factory. I feel I need to make some adjustments."


    "I have to be clear about the gap between dreams and reality. For the nning of the studio, I agree with your opinion. I''ll have to trouble you to prepare a report for me as soon as possible."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded and clipped the n into her folder.


    "There are no problems with the career nning. And as I told you, maintain your poprity."


    She looked at Rong Dai, her gaze very serious.


    Whether in looks or figure, Rong Dai was outstanding.


    "I''ll quickly do my homework on fashion. Since you don''t want to be involved in the entertainment industry, just dabble halfway, so you can maintain a level of poprity at any time."


    "Your image is great. I did some research yesterday, take a look first."


    As she spoke, Lu Nianzhi handed her a printed document.


    "Like runway modeling, shooting fashion magazines - these are all very hot topics, and they''re all linked to fashion."


    "The entertainment industry is indeedplex, but we can find other ways in. I do know some editors-in-chief of internationally popr fashion magazines, I''m still contacting domestic ones."


    "These will be very helpful for the career you want to develop. For example, The Beauty of the East in China, BE for short, is a domestic runway show of rtively high calibre."


    "BE is connected to many major international fashion brands, like TK, AngelNasha etc. The magazines published for each show are of very high calibre.


    "If we can get coborations with these shows, break through the domestic barriers, it will be much easier. The reason I want you to maintain your poprity is because you already have topicality and traffic."


    "You yourself are already a hot topic. As long as you maintain this bnce well, it''s the biggest promotion for your work. Lu Nianzhi patiently exined to her.

 Chapter 214: TK Show

    <h4>Chapter 214</h4>


    "I referenced the development history of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and wanted to steadily and quickly attack the market. In addition to the works, the most important things are exposure and international connection," said Lu Nianzhi.


    "The Brocade Embroidery Workshop only opened up international catwalks five years ago. The gold content and exposure of international catwalks are high enough to determine the height of your career," she continued while handing over the prepared documents to Rong Dai one by one for her to see.


    Rong Dai listened carefully while also looking at the documents very seriously.


    The datapiled by Lu Nianzhi was certainly not as simple as what could be searched on the Inte. The data was very clear.


    "So I have two options for maintaining your poprity: catwalks and high-quality magazine covers, which is the first one, but you are not a professional in this area and need to learn."


    "Second, continue your current entertainment career, but this will definitely take up a lot of your time."


    "From all angles, I think the first option is the best for you. I believe Auntie and the others will also agree more with the first method," said Lu Nianzhi.


    Since Lu Nianzhi dared to give such a n, she must have understood the Huo family''s thoughts in advance.


    "But the specifics still depend on you," she added.


    Rong Dai did not respond immediately, but looked at the information in her hand carefully.


    The data sorted out by Lu Nianzhi was very intuitive, and Rong Dai did not have much interest in the entertainment industry. Most importantly, it would conflict with her time.


    The first option, from both the current perspective and long-term perspective, was a very good choice.


    After much deliberation, Rong Dai finally looked at Lu Nianzhi and said, "Let''s go with the first option. I can have more freedom with the time arrangements this way."


    Importantly, it would not attract too much right and wrong.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, tapped on the tablet a few times, and handed it to Rong Dai to look at.


    "If your choice is the first option, this is the n I have arranged for you. You need enough time toplete your work and time to learn runway walking."


    "Excellent work itself is the most important thing. There are several fashion shows domestically next year, one of which is the TK Fashion Show."


    "This is the first time TK has shown in Huaxia, and the attention is very high. TK is also very influential on the international stage, and one of the brands cooperating with TK is the Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    "TK is different from other brands. It has its own independent brand, but also cooperates with other brands to jointly create the new brand trend for the next quarter," Lu Nianzhi exined.


    Rong Dai nced at the time. TK''s fashion show was scheduled for March 10th, a spring/summer fashion show.


    She looked at the date on her phone. Today was already January 8th, so time was very tight.


    She needed toe up with her own work andplete the shooting.


    Things like work sampling and embroidery were all very time consuming.


    And TK wanted a whole series of works, so it was almost impossible topete for time.


    Lu Nianzhi saw her thoughts and took out a well-nned schedule for Rong Dai to see.


    "If you want to catch up with this round of screening, it''s not impossible. TK''s screening time is very rxed this time. As long as you can deliver theplete works to them before March 5th, there will be no problem at all."


    "TK''s fashion show this time will showcase Huaxia brandsst, which is also a surprise, so the audience''s expectations will be raised, which is very good for brand promotion," she said.


    She paused, nced at Rong Dai, and continued, "To catch up, you have toplete the work before February. And the shooting must bepleted within this month."


    "I looked at your scenes, and if the crew cooperates, your scenes can be scheduled full this month toplete the shooting, but it will be very tiring."


    Lu Nianzhi organized all of Rong Dai''s scenes and made a very detailed arrangement.


    Rong Dai looked at it carefully and calcted in her heart that this way, she could indeed squeeze out a month''s time.


    But she would have to rush a dozen scenes almost every day. Although she could endure it, other actors might not be able to.


    After all, this was not a one-man show.


    "I''ll have to ask the director about this."


    She was very eager to catch TK''s fashion show this time, because TK''s design this time was very eye-catching.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, recording and organizing at the same time.


    The n for Rong Dai''s career was temporarily settled.


    "Is the learning arrangement too tight? You are a sophomore now, it takes four years to graduate, and you n toplete all your studies in half a year. Isn''t that too fast?"


    Lu Nianzhi looked at Rong Dai''s academic arrangement and was very surprised.


    Fashion design was not like other majors. Knowledge umtion was necessary, but more important was experience, as well as experience in craftsmanship and trends.


    Rong Dai was only twenty-two years old. Lu Nianzhi did not think Rong Dai had these things yet.


    "And you still have to learn English and French, take exams,plete project assessments arranged by the school. This... I''m worried you can''t handle it."


    When Lu Nianzhi was studying, she was a madman. What other students could finish in one year, she finished in one semester, including obtaining certifications.


    So students in the same grade as Lu Nianzhi all called her the "devil", because wherever Lu Nianzhi appeared, she monopolized all the academic subjects and awards.


    It had been like this since elementary school, all the way until she finished her doctorate.


    If it wasn''t for the Lu family being afraid that her high academic qualifications and strong professional skills would intimidate men in the same field, worrying that she wouldn''t be able to get married in the future, and preventing her from pursuing further studies, her academic credentials would definitely be frightening now.


    Rong Dai''s n, if she was still a student, Lu Nianzhi thought it was fine, no problem at all.


    But the key was that Rong Dai was married now. She had to both pursue her career and take care of her family, so the energy she could devote to studying was very limited.


    So she didn''t think Rong Dai''s n would allow effective learning.


    But Rong Dai just smiled and shook her head: "That''s it, I actually think my learning n is already very rxed."


    In her previous life, studying the six arts, reciting the Four Books and Five ssics, participating in poetry gatherings, and so on, which of those were easy and simple?


    She still managed to get through them.


    As long as she wanted to learn, there was endless learning, and nothing she couldn''t aplish.


    This was her confidence and her backbone.

 Chapter 215: The Old Lady is Dying

    <h4>Chapter 215</h4>


    Seeing her confidence, Lu Nianzhi didn''t say much more. There was no need to worry about her studies.


    If time is too tight, we can rearrange the schedule.


    But the TK fashion show for this spring and summer is the most important.


    "Well then, there''s no problem. I''ll go back and work out the details, and in the afternoon, I''llmunicate with the director of the crew," Lu Nianzhi said, organizing the materials and looking at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai nodded, finally having a direction for the matter.


    Although she knew that the days ahead might be tough, this fulfilling feeling satisfied Rong Dai and made her look forward to it.


    She hoped to create a new world here and stand shoulder to shoulder with Huo Shao Ting even earlier.


    After exchanging ideas with Lu Nianzhi, Rong Dai set off for the film set with her bodyguards.


    She had thoroughly studied the script, and it was up to her own performance to shape the character.


    With a few months of acting experience, as well as guidance from the talented seniors Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing, her acting skills were unquestionable.


    The afternoon scenes ended very sessfully.


    ncing at the time, she still had two night scenes to shoot, so she decided not to go back to the apartment but instead went to the dressing room to rest and learn more about the TK fashion show.


    "Miss Qiao?"


    When Rong Dai arrived at the dressing room, she was almost scared to death by Qiao Wanzhou.


    Qiao Wanzhou sat on a chair with red and swollen eyes, still wearing her costume, tightly gripping her phone.


    "What''s wrong with you?"


    Ever since thest time she got drunk and was sent back by Zhou Jing, Rong Dai had noticed that the rtionship between Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing had be very awkward and ufortable.


    Qiao Wanzhou wiped away her tears and looked up at her. "Have you finished filming?"


    Rong Dai nodded, pulled a chair and sat down. "Are you facing any difficulties?"


    "My grandmother is seriously ill and has been hospitalized. The doctor said... she might not make it to the Chinese New Year."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s voice choked up.


    Since Rong Dai got to know Qiao Wanzhou, she had always seen elegance, nobility, and brilliance in her. At most, there were asional small temper tantrums and a bit of depression.


    She had never seen her so heartbroken before.


    Thinking about Qiao Wanzhou''s grandmother''s condition, Rong Dai let out a sigh.


    When she attended her grandmother''s birthday banquetst time, she knew that her grandmother wouldn''tst long.


    She didn''t likeforting people in these situations. The deceased had passed away, andforting wouldn''t change anything for the living.


    This was something that everyone had to experience in their lives, and they had to learn to ept it on their own.


    She handed Qiao Wanzhou a tissue and gently patted her shoulder.


    "You still have time, so go back and spend time with her."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s eyes were red,pletely different from her previous elegance and nobility. She looked extremely sad.


    "But I can''t leave here. I''m afraid that if I go back, I won''t have the mood to work when Ie back. My grandmother... she''s really, really important to me."


    Rong Dai knew the feeling of losing a loved one.


    "In fact, our roles are almost finished. If we arrange it tightly, we can finish shooting this month."


    She was also thinking about how to talk to the crew about this matter.


    After all, if she wanted to change the y, she needed the whole cast to cooperate. Even though the director was her younger uncle, Huo Shaojie, he still had to consider the feelings of the other actors.


    When she took on this role, it was met with controversy. Both Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing were seasoned actors, not only well-known domestically but also internationally respected.


    She had to respect their schedules.


    But this time, the temptation of TK Showcase was great, and she really wanted to go for it.


    "I''ve seen the scenes thate after this, and it''s mostly the three of us on camera. To be honest, I really want to finish filming quickly so that I can attend TK''s first showcase in Huaxia this year."


    "If both you and Senior Zhou Jing agree, I would be really grateful."


    Rong Dai didn''t hide anything and directly expressed her dilemma.


    Qiao Wanzhou sniffled,pletely devoid of her usual goddess demeanor.


    With her swollen eyes resembling peaches, she looked at Rong Dai and said, "Really? Then I''ll go talk to that jerk."


    Seeing that she still had the energy to curse someone, Rong Dai knew that Qiao Wanzhou had notpletely broken down.


    In fact, ording to Qiao Wanzhou''s current schedule, she could definitely find time to visit Old Madam Qiao.


    But she dared not, just as Qiao Wanzhou herself had said.


    Once she went back, her attitude towards work would change, which would greatly affect her performance.


    "No rush, let''s finish today''s filming first. When we find a suitable time, we can have a meal together and invite the director and other actors. We should hear their schedule arrangements before making a decision."


    "I think everyone probably won''t be too opposed to it, especially since the Lunar New Year ising soon. Finishing work early, although it''s a bit tiring, would allow us to spend a reunion year."


    Rong Dai analyzed with a slight smile.


    Qiao Wanzhou nodded. When she saw her swollen eyes in the mirror, she couldn''t help butin. Then she diligently touched up her makeup, as if the previous heart-wrenching sadness was just an illusion.


    But Rong Dai knew well that there''s no greater sorrow than a dead heart.


    The sadder one is, sometimes the harder it is to vent it out.


    She changed out of her costume and put on a warm down jacket. When Qiao Wanzhou went to shoot the next scene, Rong Dai took out her phone and found Zhou Jing''s WeChat in the group chat, sending him a message.


    Zhou Jing had no scenes in this one, so he came over within a few minutes.


    "How is she... Wanzhou?"


    These past few days, Zhou Jing had been feeling really bad, not knowing how to handle Qiao Wanzhou anymore.


    It seemed that their breakthrough that night had disrupted the bnce of their rtionship.


    Rong Dai looked deeply at Zhou Jing. She knew that this man felt extremely insecure in front of Qiao Wanzhou.


    Yes, it was insecurity.


    Although in the eyes of outsiders, Zhou Jing was already outstanding.


    He had the looks, the talent, the money.


    In any aspect, he could match up with Qiao Wanzhou.


    But Qiao Wanzhou was just too exceptional.


    This sense of inferiority had formed in Zhou Jing''s heart long ago, so even though he had reached his current height, he still looked up to Qiao Wanzhou.


    This was a problem that only Zhou Jing himself could solve, and she couldn''t be of much help.


    "Not very good."


    Rong Dai shook her head and briefly exined to Zhou Jing what had made Qiao Wanzhou so sad a moment ago.


    She nced at Zhou Jing''s reaction for a few seconds before speaking up and telling him about the conversation she had with Qiao Wanzhou earlier.


    "I''m fine, it depends on your thoughts and those of the other actors, Zhou Jing, as the senior."


    "Sometimes, whether it''s with loved ones or in rtionships, once you miss the opportunity, there won''t be another chance."


    "Even if there''s a chance to start afresh, it won''t be the same thing or the same person."


    Rong Dai''s voice was soft, and her words carried twoyers of meaning. It was up to Zhou Jing to understand them.


    Interfering in other people''s emotional matters is the least appropriate thing for outsiders to do, and she didn''t have that much to do with it.

 Chapter 216: His Love is very serious

    <h4>Chapter 216</h4>


    "I see, thank you."


    Zhou Jing said in a deep voice, and then left the dressing room.


    Rong Dai didn''t say anything more. Zhou Jing was able to get to where he was today in this circle, not just because of his own ability, but also because of his other skills.


    They were all smart people. She had said these words once or twice, which was enough. Saying too much would make people get tired of it.


    She was looking at TK''s information on her phone when she received a message from her little sister-inw.


    Huo Mei Shu: Sister-inw, Gu Chengyan asked me if I want to be his assistant! (Three excited emoji faces)


    Looking at the message sent by her little sister-inw, Rong Dai had a deep impression of Gu Chengyan.


    She thought about it and sent back to her little sister-inw: What do you think?


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t answer her right away. It was probably two or three minutes before she answered: I want to go, but I''m also afraid that I won''t do well, so I''m very nervous. I wanted to ask my sister-inw.


    Rong Dai couldn''t helpughing.


    With what her little sister-inw said, she had already decided in her heart that she wanted to go, she just wanted someone to support her to be more confident.


    She sent back: Then go ahead, don''t let yourself regret it.


    If it was her little sister-inw who had confessed to Gu Chengyan, and Gu Chengyan had clearly rejected her, she would not agree to support her little sister-inw to continue pestering him desperately.


    Whether it''s a man or a woman, after receiving a clear rejection from the other party, what they should do is not continue to pester desperately.


    But don''t disturb them, this is respect for the person you like.


    Since the other party has rejected it, it shows the other party''s attitude.


    Pestering desperately will only make people disgusted, and will also lose their own dignity.


    She despised this kind of person very much.


    With her support, Huo Mei Shu was very happy and sent back a string of smiling faces.


    Rong Dai had a faint smile on her face as she continued to look at the information in her hand.


    At nightfall, Lu Nianzhi delivered her dinner on time.


    After dinner, she had shot two night scenes and it was ten o''clock at night.


    She didn''t see Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou on set, and it started to rain at night.


    The weather in East China was very humid and cold, and such night rains in winter were very piercing.


    She didn''t ask too much, and went back to the apartment with Lu Nianzhi.


    Just as the two of them returned to the apartment to drink something warm before discussing the details they had nned, the doorbell rang.


    Opening the door, it was Huo Mei Shu humming a song and bringing takeout.


    It was obvious that the little sister-inw was in a good mood.


    Rong Dai was a little confused about Mr. Gu, but it was good that her little sister-inw was happy.


    "Aren''t you staying to eat?"


    Seeing her humming a song and about to leave, looking at the full takeout on the dining table, Lu Nianzhi asked.


    The smile on Huo Mei Shu''s face was like a blooming sunflower: "No need, I''ve already eaten at my idol''s ce. This is specially brought for my sister-inw and Sister Nianzhi. I have to go back to work. My idol..."


    With that, she closed the door.


    Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi looked at each other helplessly.


    The two were also a little hungry, opened the takeout while eating and discussing.


    At eleven o''clock, all the details were finalized.


    After sending off Lu Nianzhi, Rong Dai finally breathed a long sigh of relief, took a hot shower, and saw that Huo Shao Ting had called her three minutes ago when she came out.


    She hurriedly called back.


    "Have you been working very hard these days?"


    Seeing the fatigue on his handsome face, she felt very distressed.


    "It''s good to see you."


    Huo Shao Ting said softly, his mellow and maic voice was very easy to make ears pregnant.


    Rong Dai''s ear tips instantly turned red. Although she was long used to him asionally saying these sweet words from his mouth, her heart still couldn''t help but beat wildly.


    "Then rest early and I''ll be back soon."


    Her voice was gentle. Even through the screen, Huo Shao Ting could see her thoughts and distress in her beautiful eyes very clearly.


    A softness rose in his heart, and he softly responded to her.


    "Nianzhi has already reported to me about the matter. Just focus on doing what you want to do, I''ll take care of everything else."


    He could see that Rong Dai wanted to say something, and he could feel her thoughtfulness as well.


    Rong Dai smiled at the corner of her mouth, her heart surging with warmth.


    "Good night, husband."


    She said softly, and after getting Huo Shao Ting''s reply, she hung up the video call.


    She was afraid that if she said more, tonight would be a sleepless night.


    She had never thought that she would miss someone so much, missing him to the bone marrow, even dreaming of only his figure.


    The next day when Rong Dai went to the set, the crew members and actors were basically all there.


    Except for the opening ceremony that day, the crew members had never been so neat.


    Huo ShaoJie and Lu Ye were very busy, and the two had lost a lot of weight in this period of time.


    She was full of doubts. Seeing that Qiao Wanzhou''s condition had improved a lot, she was relieved.


    She didn''t know what method Zhou Jing had used to persuade the director and actors. The crew adjusted the scenes of all the actors.


    All the directors, deputy directors, all the shots were used to the maximum.


    Looking at her adjusted scenes in her hand, it was about the same as what Lu Nianzhi had sorted out for her.


    Seeing such dense workload, although she felt the pressure, she was also full of confidence.


    In the next month, the crew of To Be A Virtuous Queen was very busy, because there were not many outdoor scenes, most of the scenes werepleted inside the green screen.


    In order to allow Rong Dai toplete the shooting as soon as possible and make time for follow-up work, Lu Nianzhi also adjusted her schedule and some learning arrangements.


    During this month, Rong Dai was just running between the studio and the apartment.


    Sometimes when she got back to the apartment, she could fall asleep even when taking a shower. When she got to the set, she was like she had been injected with chicken blood, full of fighting spirit.


    Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou were the same. Seeing the three leading actors work so hard, the other actors didn''t dare to be negligent. The cooperation was unprecedentedly tacit.


    On the 28th, Qiao Wanzhou''s scenes were finished shooting. After a brief celebration by the crew, she took a flight back to Jingjing that day.


    Rong Dai still had two days of scenes left, a total of twelve scenes.


    Thanks to Qiao Wanzhou that night, she got a short break and was able to video chat with Huo Shao Ting.


    In this month, apart from meeting at the beginning of the month, the two rarely even had video chats and calls because her scenes were scheduled very full.

 Chapter 217: Her Thoughts

    <h4>Chapter 217</h4>


    Seeing Rong Dai in the video call looking even thinner, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help frowning.


    But Rong Dai greedily looked at him on the screen, and her somewhat tired eyes revealed a deep yearning.


    "Shao Ting, I miss you..."


    Leaning on the pillow, her eyes were a little blurred, and she murmured softly.


    She really missed him so much.


    They had just seen each other at the beginning of the month, and would make video calls or phone calls when they had time.


    But for Rong Dai, it felt like a whole century, so long.


    She looked forward to time passing faster and faster every day.


    That way, she could return to Shengjing to see him sooner.


    Rong Dai had never thought there would be a man who made her think about him day and night like this.


    Not even when she was the Empress in her previous life.


    Hearing her soft and tired voice, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t bring himself to chide her as he intended.


    He felt heartache but had to support her work.


    He knew she was strong-willed and understood what she wanted.


    So he could not stop her, only give his full support and cherish her.


    "I miss you too, my wife..."


    Watching Rong Dai on the screen breathing evenly in deep sleep, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were like tiny twinkling stars, full of tenderness.


    He answered her softly, afraid the sound of hanging up would wake her.


    Although he knew the possibility was small, as Rong Dai''s filming had been very tiring recently, and it was normal for her to be exhausted.


    But he still didn''t hang up, only turned the phone volume to minimum and put it by the pillow, before going to the bathroom to wash up.


    When he came out after washing up, Rong Dai was still sleeping deeply.


    Her smoothplexion in sleep looked a little naive, her bright red lips slightly open, her cheeks flushed, very alluring.


    Leaning against the headboard, with the quilt covering his waist and abdomen, Huo Shao Ting''s gaze remained fixed closely on her in the phone, not wanting to miss a single second.


    While Rong Dai was fast asleep, he took screenshots and saved them.


    There had never been any photos of anyone in his phone album, not even himself.


    Huo Shao Ting opened the album to look, only seeing many photos of Rong Dai inside.


    The corner of his mouth curved up into an indulgent yet faintly wicked smile. Counting the time, his wife whom he missed day and night would be back soon.


    Rong Dai was woken in the morning by her rm clock, though it was only 4am at this time, the sky was not yet bright.


    Huo Shao Ting naturally heard the rm too. Seeing her dazed and tired face as she reached out to turn off the rm, pain pierced his heart.


    He really wanted to tell her that her husband had the ability to support her for life, she didn''t need to work so hard.


    But he knew that wouldn''t be her then.


    Rong Dai struggled to get up, sitting up in bed with disheveled hair. The soft, tempting bed almost dragged her back down.


    "Can''t sleep, can''t sleep..."


    She quickly shook her head with eyes closed, lightly patting her cheeks with her hand. But she was still too sleepy to open her eyes.


    "Hiss��"


    She suddenly pinched the root of her own thigh, sucking in a breath from the pain. Instantly dispelling all sleepiness.


    This action was seen clearly by Huo Shao Ting, whose brow immediately furrowed into deep creases.


    Had she been waking up this way every day recently?


    Huo Shao Ting''s fingertips holding the phone turned white. The swelling pain in his heart made him want to fly to her side right away.


    But he pressed his lips tight without speaking, watching as she staggered to the bathroom to wash up. Only then did he silently hang up the video call.


    After hanging up, Huo Shao Ting''s expression was very cold.


    He opened Rong Dai''s work email, full of filming tasks for her.


    After reading the scenes, he took a deep breath but said nothing. He got up and poured himself a drink.


    Shengjing was much quieter at 4am, with only the colorful neon lights shing.


    He stood by the bay window, overlooking Shengjing''s night view, his eyes as profound and deep as the sea.


    He knew why his wife was working so hard.


    So to be able to stay by her side at all times, it was time to resolve some matters.


    Rong Dai was unaware of Huo Shao Ting''splex feelings at this moment, and did not know that she had left the video call with him open all night.


    After washing up, hearing the doorbell ring, she hurriedly grabbed her phone and went to open the door.


    Usually the servant girl brought breakfast over from the nutritionist, but recently Lu Nianzhi had be her assistant, naturally taking over these tasks.


    Lu Nianzhi skillfullyid out the breakfast. While Rong Dai ate, she briefed her on the scenes to film today.


    Rong Dai nodded, "Let''s work overtime tonight and finish shooting these twelve scenes in one go, no need to wait until the day after tomorrow."


    Lu Nianzhi was very diligent in her work, so despite Rong Dai having heavy filming tasks and many scenes, she arranged everything neatly.


    Rong Dai already knew the lines for these twelve scenes off by heart, and they were not very demanding scenes.


    In her previous life she had lived in military camps with her father and brothers, so she knew some martial arts skills. Of course she was also highly skilled at riding, archery and more.


    So these twelve scenes were no challenge for her.


    It was just that she had been severely sleep deprived this past month, and would be exhausted on set.


    "Two days is enough time, no need to rush it." Lu Nianzhi was a little surprised.


    Though a super overachiever herself, she never pushed her body to the limit.


    She nned her time well toplete all tasks and studying efficiently.


    From working with Rong Dai these days, she was also very shocked by the other''s willpower and discipline.


    But Rong Dai was clearly overdoing it, even overdrawing on her health.


    So she didn''t rmend rushing it like this.


    Rong Dai put down her bowl and chopsticks, and used a napkin to wipe her lips.


    "No, I need to leave a day open. It''ll be more tiring for the other actors, but I''ll cover the food and drinks on set today, just use my bank card. "


    Rong Dai shook her head.


    She needed to rush back to Shengjing, to work on the design drafts and samples, all very time consuming.


    She probably wouldn''t have any free time in February either.


    And she had already spent quite some time filming here, her mother-inw would be returning from vacation soon too. She also needed to prepare gifts for her mother-inw.


    Although the Huo family didn''t care much for such things, she was the daughter-inw who had been away for so long, so preparing some gifts was proper.


    She didn''t want to return to Shengjing empty-handed, even if her mother-inw wouldn''t be unhappy, there would still be disappointment.


    Although she could just give money, sometimes money didn''t represent everything. Besides, the Huo family was notcking money, and her mother-inw''s own family background was also good, she certainly wasn''t short of money either.


    There was a saying, it''s the thought that counts. The gift conveys this thought.


    "I need to leave a day open to go shopping, to buy gifts for my family. The new year is almost here, I probably won''t have timeter to prepare gifts for them, so it''s better to get them ready in advance."


    Seeing Lu Nianzhi''s hesitation, she exined.

 Chapter 218: The End of a Play

    <h4>Chapter 218</h4>


    "Okay, I''ll arrange it right away."


    After listening to Rong Dai''s exnation, Lu Nianzhi nodded and took out her phone to deal with things.


    Except for Huo Shao Ting, no one knew Rong Dai''s next work arrangements better than her.


    The time for the TK fashion show was very tight. If she could return to China two months in advance, there would still be some spare time.


    But now, to catch up with this show, Rong Dai''s time was very tight.


    After breakfast, the two went to the set.


    When they arrived at the set, Rong Dai went to shoot, while Lu Nianzhi went tomunicate with the director and other actors.


    In fact, everyone''s scenes were not many anymore, and many people had already finished one after another.


    Zhou Jing admired Rong Dai very much. Moreover, he was also worried about the affairs in Qiao Wanzhou''s family. Naturally, there was no problem.


    Even a big star like Zhou Jing didn''t have a problem, let alone others.


    After all, don''t bite the hand that feeds you.


    Although Huo Shao Ting rarely visited the set in the past few months of shooting, he treated everyone to dinner every now and then, and he was quite generous.


    Besides, the New Year wasing soon, everyone''s scenes were not many, and of course finishing shooting earlier was a good thing.


    The chemistry between the actors in thest few scenes was very high. Moreover, thanks to Rong Dai, Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing, who led by example with their skills over the past few months, many actors in the crew had benefited significantly and improved their acting skills.


    Rong Dai shot until 5 am for 12 straight scenes without sleep or rest for 24 hours.


    "Rong Dai, congrattions on wrapping up!"


    While she was taking a nap in the makeup room, Zhou Jing and other actors came in with flowers and cakes to congratte her.


    Although Rong Dai was exhausted, she had been well taken care of by everyone in the crew over the past few months, so she still showed a very gentle smile.


    "You guys work hard. I''m leaving tomorrow. When you return to Shengjing, I''ll treat you to dinner."


    She took the flowers and said very gently and properly.


    The other actors were very happy and scrambled to take pictures with her one by one.


    Rong Dai didn''t refuse and took pictures with them one by one holding the flowers. By the time she was done, it was almost 6 o''clock.


    "Rong Dai, can I ask you a favor?"


    After everyone else left, Zhou Jing looked at Rong Dai and asked.


    Rong Dai probably knew what he was going to say. She put the flowers on the table and sat down to remove her makeup: "Senior Zhou, I know what you want to say."


    "But my constion is useless. Rather than my constion, I think Miss Qiao wants your constion more."


    "Besides, I still have work to do when I return to Shengjing, so I''m afraid I don''t have much time."


    Zhou Jing still had a few scenes to shoot, so he was thest one to wrap up.


    The only person he could worry about other than Qiao Wanzhou was no one else.


    Zhou Jing sighed softly: "Thank you."


    Rong Dai nced at him. She didn''t like to meddle in such matters.


    However, she and Huo Shao Ting were able to be together today not only because of fate, but also thanks to the matchmaking done by the youngdy and the others.


    Thinking of Qiao Wanzhou''s swollen eyes from crying in the makeup room that day, and her drunken loss ofposure at her apartment before, and Qiao Wanzhou''s usual graceful and intelligent image in public, she felt a little distressed.


    "Some things, some people, once missed, will never have a chance again."


    "Since you know Miss Qiao''s identity is different, you should also know that with her status, her family will never allow her not to marry for a lifetime."


    "If you can''t give her what she wants, let go. Don''t treat her like a puppet. No woman will like the feeling of suffering from gains and losses."


    Although she really didn''t want to say these words, thinking of Qiao Wanzhou''s swollen eyes from crying in the makeup room that day, and her drunken loss ofposure at her apartment before, and Qiao Wanzhou''s usual graceful and intelligent image in public, she felt a little distressed.


    "Besides, if you can''t give her an answer, the Qiao family will arrange it very quickly. After all, she''s not young anymore."


    After speaking, she didn''t say any more. Some things just need to be hinted at lightly, saying too much would only make people disgusted.


    Zhou Jing''s eyes were very deep. He clenched his fists and looked at Rong Dai in the mirror for a long time before speaking: "I understand. Have a safe trip."


    After speaking, he turned and left.


    Rong Dai sat in the chair and sighed very helplessly.


    She did hope Zhou Jing could figure it out.


    By the time she had removed her makeup and changed her clothes and came out, it was already seven o''clock.


    Lu Nianzhi had also been up all night. She sat in the van and the breakfast she had prepared for Rong Dai was still steaming hot.


    Rong Dai was also very hungry and didn''t stand on ceremony as she started eating.


    "Everything has been arranged. Huo Mei Shu is with Mr. Gu now. She will choose a time to return to Shengjing herself."


    "As for the gifts you mentioned, I''ve made a n for you. The things from these stores in Hangzhou are pretty good and unique."


    "You can go shopping today. Some things can be ordered to ensure they arrive before the New Year."


    "Although it will be more tiring this way, when you return to Shengjing, you can have two days to rest. The remaining time will be used toplete the work."


    Lu Nianzhi handed her the prepared schedule.


    Rong Dai nodded while eating breakfast: "Let''s do that. I''ll sleep in the car for a whileter. Wake me up when we get there."


    "Okay."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. Then she put away the schedule and waited for Rong Dai to finish breakfast before the van set off for Hangzhou.


    Rong Dai had been severely sleep deprived recently, so after finishing breakfast and putting on an eye mask, she fell asleep against the seat in less than two minutes.


    She had just fallen asleep when the phone rang.


    But she was sleeping so soundly that the phone kept ringing. Lu Nianzhi had no choice but to pick it up and take a look.


    Seeing that the caller ID disyed Huo Shao Ting, she swiped to answer: "Mr. Huo, Madam is asleep."


    "What time does the flight arrive?"


    Huo Shao Ting asked her. He had just received the itinerary sent by Lu Nianzhi.


    Lu Nianzhi nced at her watch: "About 2 am. I booked thest flight so that Madam would have time to go to the mall."


    She had also assisted several female employers before and knew well the formidable purchasing power and shopping stamina of women.


    So she tried to make the time as flexible as possible.


    "Change her schedule to start on February 7th."


    Huo Shao Ting said, looking at the schedule on theputer.


    Lu Nianzhi frowned: "But then it will be toote. The TK show is very tight. We don''t have much time before March 10."


    "I''ll take care of the time. You just need to get it done."


    Huo Shao Tingmanded very forcefully.


    Lu Nianzhi knew his capabilities very well. Seeing Rong Dai sleeping soundly in the seat, she also felt a little distressed.


    "Okay."

 Chapter 219: Cost 300 Million

    <h4>Chapter 219</h4>


    After hanging up the phone, Lu Nianzhi started to modify Rong Dai''s schedule while Huo Shao Ting asked Zhang Assistant to contact the person in charge of TK''s fashion shows in Huaxia this year.


    The Huo Corporation had businesses in a wide range of industries, including the entertainment industry, so it had resources in this area.


    Zhang Assistant was extremely efficient. Twenty minutester, the general manager of TK Show called back.


    Sitting in the boss''s chair, Huo Shao Ting''s expression was cold and aloof. His gaze was sharp, exuding an aura like an emperor''s.


    In a deep yet maic voice, he calmly told the other party, "This year, all of TK Show''s expenses will be covered by Huo Corporation. We will also provide free advertising for TK for one year."


    "With Huo Corporation''s influence in the Asian region, I''m sure you understand the profits involved here."


    The condition he offered was very tempting.


    After all, Huo Corporation had expanded internationally. Their influence was not just limited to Asia, but also worldwide.


    Even just one branch of the entertainment industry under the massive Huo Corporation exceeded professional leaders in the field.


    Of course TK''s general manager understood this very clearly.


    He just couldn''tprehend why Huo Shao Ting would offer such conditions, so he asked in broken Chinese, "May I ask what Mr. Huo requires in return?"


    Huo Shao Ting lightly tapped his slender fingers on the desk a few times: "Postpone the show by ten days to March 20th. This shouldn''t affect things too much. As for subsequent promotions in Asia, Huo Corporation will do our best with advertising fees waived."


    The TK general manager was very tempted.


    Although TK had been the king of international trends, they had never broken into the Asian market.


    Asia alone, just Huaxia, would bring tremendous profits.


    Years ago, TK''s head of marketing had underestimated Huaxia''s potential and didn''t expand into the market.


    The results now were obvious. Brands that had partnered with TK had already entered the Asian market, especially focusing on Huaxia.


    The revenue from Huaxia alone was tremendous.


    If TK remainedcent in Europe and America, they would soon be kicked off the world stage.


    Huaxia was too tolerant. Those brands that had already entered had made a fortune.


    Although TK had a hundred years of history, who would turn down more money? Bury it?


    "Mr. Huo, I will have to discuss this with upper management before making a decision."


    He wanted to agree, but changing the date would require notifying all the models and arranging many troublesome matters in advance.


    This was not a decision he could make alone.


    As a CEO, Huo Shao Ting understood this reasoning: "Then I''ll await your call. I hope we have a pleasant cooperation."


    After hanging up, the TK general manager urgently contacted upper management for a video conference.


    Having stood by Huo Shao Ting''s side, Zhang Assistant naturally understood what his boss had said and nned to do.


    TK''s expenses were high, and they''d have to provide free advertising for a year.


    That would be a tremendous amount, especially when thepany was facing intense internal divisions right now.


    The president''s actions would be very disadvantageous for him at this time.


    "President, this matter..."


    "Deduct all of TK''s fees from my personal ount. As for advertising costs, I have leased some of Huo Corporation''s top advertising spots for TK."


    Before Zhang Assistant could voice his concerns, Huo Shao Ting interrupted him.


    He was well aware of thepany''s current situation, but he could not let his wife be wronged because ofpany matters.


    He worked to earn money and provide his wife afortable life.


    Why else would he earn money? Bury himself?


    "Yes, President..."


    Zhang Assistant swallowed nervously.


    Having been an assistant for many years, he knew exactly how much would be spent on TK - at least 2 to 3 billion.


    Top advertising spots of Huo Corporation for a whole year was incredibly expensive.


    But he was gradually getting used to it.


    When the president doted on his wife, there was no upper or lower limit. He just aimed to make her happy.


    Besides, it wasn''t as if the presidentcked money.


    2 to 3 billion was an astronomical figure for ordinary people.


    But after so many years, even the president himself probably didn''t know how much he had earned anymore. This was just pocket change to him.


    The TK side quickly finished their meeting.


    General Manager Ha Wei''splexion was rosy, unable to conceal his excitement. After having his assistant sort out the documents, he called Huo Shao Ting''s office.


    "Mr. Huo, we are delighted by your proposal. When would be convenient to sign the contract?"


    Hearing this, Huo Shao Ting''s lips curved up into an charming smile. "You can send someone from TK to mypany to discuss the details."


    "Wonderful, I wille in person, Mr. Huo."


    Ha Wei was ted.


    After hanging up, Huo Shao Ting told Zhang Assistant to prepare the contract.


    Zhang Assistant sighed silently. All that just to postpone by ten days, costing 3 billion...


    The president was the president, extravagance unparalleled!


    In high spirits after the negotiations and signed contract with TK, Huo Shao Ting happily worked through the day.


    He would get to see his beloved wife again soon.


    After negotiations and signing the contract with Huo Corporation, it was already evening on TK''s side.


    Rong Dai was still shopping in Hangzhou.


    Lu Nianzhi had prepared an excellent itinerary. Rong Dai had only nned to buy a few small gifts, but even just four stores took up an entire afternoon.


    Reborn in this life, she had earned her first pot of gold, so she was very thoughtful in selecting gifts for the Huo family and herself.


    She considered everyone, even Lu Nianzhi, Qiao Wanzhou, and Zhou Jing.


    "I''m afraid this will take several luggage boxes to ship."


    Lu Nianzhi awkwardly swallowed, the eternal truth that no woman could escape shopping.


    Rong Dai felt a little embarrassed. "I got carried away. Let me go with you to handle the paperwork."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. Including Rong Dai and two other bodyguards, it took nearly an hour toplete all the procedures.


    Sitting on the ne, gazing at the shing lights of the airport, Rong Dai''s longing grew stronger.


    Before takeoff, she took out her phone and messaged Huo Shao Ting.


    Seeing the video call time from two nights ago, she froze.


    Nearly five full hours without hanging up. She had been busy filming these two days, her phone beside her but no time to check it.


    Her heart quivered. Thinking of Huo Shao Ting''s handsome features, she increasingly yearned to see him.


    This man had poured all his tenderness onto her. How could she not be moved?

 Chapter 220: The Lady is Lost.

    <h4>Chapter 220</h4>


    Rong Dai was in a very good mood. Although she had been shooting for twenty-four hours straight, as long as she thought about being able to return to Huo Shao Ting''s side soon, her heart felt soft.


    The sun visor came down as the ne flew through the clouds with a bump.


    "Nianzhi, can you give me a copy of TK''s information?"


    Seeing that she did not seem to want to sleep, Lu Nianzhi took out the information from her tablet and handed it to her: "I''ll take a nap."


    Her previous work had all been kept at a nine-to-five level. During this period, in order to coordinate with Rong Dai''s work and rest hours, her lifestyle had also been disrupted.


    Rong Dai had not rested for twenty-four hours, and neither had she. She had been staying by her side at the filming location the whole time.


    Rong Dai nodded while carefully looking through the information, mentallying up with ideas for the show she was going to participate in this time.


    This was TK''s first timeing to Huaxia to walk the runway, and the main purpose was to expand the Huaxia market, so the main target audience was still Huaxia-focused.


    Although she had been tired from the filming recently, she had not fallen behind on the things she needed to learn.


    Western clothing had very distinct characteristics, and in terms of bone structure, the average bone structure of Huaxia women tended to be more petite.


    Although her embroidery was first-ss, adjustments would need to be made to incorporate it into modern clothing, which was still quite challenging for Rong Dai.


    However, she was not afraid. She was never the kind of person to give up when faced with difficulties.


    Just as Rong Dai was carefully looking through the information while taking notes, the ne suddenly shook violently and began to lurch violently!


    It was alreadyte at night, and most people in the cabin were fast asleep.


    Turbulence on nes was verymon, but this turbulence seemed abnormal, continuing on persistently.


    Sharp indicator lights in the cabin were ringing, and oxygen masks had fallen down.


    Although she and Lu Nianzhi were sitting in first ss, the panicked voices in the cabin could still be heard loud and clear.


    The flight attendants also began to make announcements.


    Lu Nianzhi woke up from her sleep and saw the situation in the cabin. Her face was grave.


    "Put it on quickly!"


    She urged Rong Dai.


    "What...what''s going on?"


    Rong Dai''s face paled slightly. The violent shaking almost shook her out of her seat!


    "It''s probably due to air convection. Don''t worry about that, just put on the oxygen mask."


    Lu Nianzhi instructed her, then put on her own mask before helping Rong Dai with hers.


    Rong Dai had been a little stunned at first, but as the turbulence grew more and more violent, her ears began to ring.


    The screams of the passengers in the cabin were very noisy, and some children had started crying.


    Although the flight attendants were trying their best to calm everyone down, such panic could not be controlled.


    After a few seconds of confusion, Rong Dai finally reacted to the problem they might be about to face.


    "Nianzhi, we...could we be about to have a ne crash?"


    She was not afraid of death, but she still wanted to see Huo Shao Ting!


    She knew he was still at home waiting for her toe back!


    A chill rushed from the soles of her feet along her meridians, surging straight to the crown of her head. An indescribable sense of panic spread rapidly in her heart!


    Her hands and feet were ice cold, and her heartbeat sped up frighteningly. Beads of fine sweat appeared on her forehead.


    The violent turbulence continued.


    Lu Nianzhi did not dare to answer her. Even though she was a strong woman, she would still be afraid at a time like this.


    "Nianzhi, we will definitely be fine."


    Rong Dai suddenly grasped her hand tightly. Her eyes were resolute, although her face was a little pale.


    But her resoluteness infected Lu Nianzhi.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, but this resoluteness did notst long. A burst of violent turbulence came, almost throwing them out of their seats.


    The cabin lights went out all at once, and panicked screams rose one after another.


    Rong Dai let go of Lu Nianzhi''s hand and took out her phone which was on airne mode.


    She stared at the screen. The photo album contained candid shots she had taken of Huo Shao Ting.


    She swallowed hard with difficulty. Although she was very scared,


    Although she still had so much more that she wanted to say to this man, and although she also wanted to spend her whole life with Huo Shao Ting,


    The ne''s violent turbulence was abnormal. Terrible things might happen.


    Her body shook violently with the turbulence. She gripped her phone tightly


    and opened Huo Shao Ting''s WeChat.


    Seeing the nearly five hours of video call time, she took a deep breath.


    She thought for a moment, then sent a message: I love you Shao Ting. If possible, please find someone to love in my ce. I will guard you, forever.


    She clicked send and changed her phone settings.


    As soon as it reached the ground, airne mode would switch to normal mode and the message would be sent out.


    She put her phone away. Lu Nianzhi beside her had already fainted from the turbulence.


    "Wake up, Nianzhi..."


    Rong Dai struggled to reach out and pull her, but the turbulence was getting stronger and she could not maintain her bnce.


    Rong Dai only felt like she was being tossed around on the seat like a leaf in the rain, as if she was on a roller coaster at an amusement park.


    With a violent lurch, her head banged against the sun visor.


    She had not been able to rest properly these days either, and immediately cked out.


    Rong Dai felt so reluctant. Although it had only been a few months, she had already fallen deeply in love with Huo Shao Ting.


    She was unwilling to leave just like this.


    But her brain would not obey her, and she immediately sank into darkness.


    In Shenjing, in the CEO''s office at the top floor of Huo Group.


    Huo Shao Ting kept looking at his watch, seeing it was almost time, he grabbed the down jacket he had prepared for Rong Dai and went downstairs to go to the airport.


    "CEO..."


    Zhang Assistant''s face was a little pale. Seeing Huo Shao Tinge out of the elevator, he hesitated to speak.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned: "Since when did you start speaking so haltingly?"


    Zhang Assistant took a deep breath and showed him the information on his phone: "The...The ne Madam took from Hangzhou Airport has lost contact. This is the message from the airport. It may also be due to the weather..."


    "What did you say?!"


    Huo Shao Ting could hardly believe his ears. She had just sent him a message before getting on the ne.


    How could it have lost contact in less than two hours?


    "The...the ne Madam was on has lost contact with the airport."


    Zhang Assistant didn''t even know how he managed to get the words out. He just felt like his tongue was tied in knots and it was extremely difficult to speak.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were extremely gloomy. He strode to get in the car.


    He didn''t believe it!


    "CEO, wait for me!"


    Seeing his boss driving away recklessly, Zhang Assistant came to his senses and hurried to catch up.


    It was snowing lightly in Shenjing tonight, exceptionally piercingly cold.


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing was rapid, and his face extremely grave.


    The words "lost contact" were like a spell swirling around in his mind. Huge panic spread in his heart.


    Just thinking that Rong Dai might leave him because of this, his heart ached again and again!


    "No! This can''t be!"


    Huo Shao Ting had always been a man with great self-control, but at this moment he lost control!


    His long fingers gripped the steering wheel tightly as he stepped harder and harder on the gas pedal.

 Chapter 221: We Go Home

    <h4>Chapter 221</h4>


    Luckily, it was alreadyte at night, and there were not so many vehicles on the street. Huo Shao Ting almost ran through all the red lights to get to the airport.


    Zhang, his assistant, followed him all the way, making all the arrangements for him, so when Huo Shao Ting arrived at the airport, he was immediately taken to the VIP lounge.


    "What exactly happened with the ne?"


    Seeing the person in charge of the terminale out, Huo Shao Ting asked directly. His voice was trembling.


    "My wife is on that ne. I have the right to know what happened!"


    His voice contained panic, and his handsome face was a little pale.


    The person in charge was frightened by his aura and didn''t even dare to breathe.


    "Mrs. Huo was on a flight that lost contact with the control tower due to weather conditions. We are doing our best to reestablish contact. Mr. Huo, please calm down and wait here."


    That was all the person in charge could say. None of them had expected something like this to happen on an ordinary flight.


    Based on the time, the ne should have been in the skies above Shengjing by now.


    But Shengjing had seen light snow for days, so flight disruptions were normal.


    Huo Shao Ting secretly took a deep breath and punched the wall, tightly gripping the tablet in his hand until cracks appeared on the screen.


    The person in charge wanted to say more but didn''t dare. Huo Shao Ting was emitting an icy, sinister aura.


    "I''ll wait here. Inform me immediately if there is any news."


    He looked up and stared at the person in charge. His voice was very low.


    The person in charge nodded and gestured for his staff to bring over hot water, before hurrying off to work.


    When Zhang the assistant arrived at the airport after dealing with Huo Shao Ting''s traffic vitions, he saw Huo Shao Ting sitting there stony-faced with his eyebrows knitted together, like a statue.


    Zhang nced at the time. It was 2:15 in the morning. Based on Mrs. Huo''s flight information, the ne should havended safely by now.


    But apart from the beeping of the equipment, there was no roar of airne engines in the terminal.


    He didn''t dare approach Huo Shao Ting, only looking at the light snow outside the terminal, praying in his heart.


    Praying the ne was safe and sound, praying his boss''s wife would reach the ground safely.


    Otherwise, he didn''t dare imagine what his boss would be.


    Zhang stood silently to one side, stealing nces at Huo Shao Ting from time to time.


    Huo Shao Ting was extremely gloomy, emitting an icy, sinister aura. He was just short of hanging a "Keep Out" sign on his chest.


    Time passed second by second. Until 3 in the morning, there was still no news.


    Cold sweat broke out on Zhang''s forehead.


    It had been so long without any news...


    He looked at Huo Shao Ting, took out his phone and browsed the news. If something really happened to the ne, it would be reported immediately.


    Luckily Weibo was peaceful, with only news about some minor celebrity still trending.


    Looking at the calm Weibo with no updates from the terminal, Zhang also broke into a cold sweat.


    If this happened onnd, the boss would still have some options.


    But in the sky, only a deity''s intervention could save the day. Otherwise, even the boss was powerless.


    "Contact established!"


    Someone suddenly ran out from the terminal and said. Huo Shao Ting immediately stood up, gaze fixed on the airport.


    "The flight Mrs. Huo was on experienced severe turbulence due to weather conditions, resulting in brief loss of contact."


    "However, the flight crew were highly professional and have now guided the aircraft out of the dangerous zone. The flight path has been renned and the ne is estimated tond in thirty minutes."


    Upon hearing the news from the person in charge, not just Zhang heaved a sigh of relief. The knot in Huo Shao Ting''s heart finally loosened.


    The nearly two hours of torment felt like he had taken a trip to hell and back.


    Seeing the ne touch down and taxi smoothly, he finally unclenched his fists. His first action was to go to the arrival gate to receive Rong Dai.


    When Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi disembarked, the two were still holding each other''s hands tightly. Having just survived a life-threatening situation, they finally felt relief when their feet touched the ground.


    Nearly an hour of continuous violent shaking, panic, fainting, Rong Dai was certain she wouldn''t make it out alive this time.


    But when they finally reachednd, she realized how terribly afraid she was of death.


    She was afraid she would never see Huo Shao Ting again, never lean against his sturdy chest, never hear his voice again.


    "It''s over."


    It took Lu Nianzhi a long time to squeeze out those words. Due to the turbulence, both their heads were badly knocked around and looked a little disheveled.


    The other passengers who took the flight all had their hands over their chests, breathing heavily, grateful to have survived.


    Rong Dai nodded and leaned on Lu Nianzhi for support as they slowly made their way out.


    Her legs felt a little weak. Supporting each other, the two walked slower than the other passengers.


    "The boss is here, I should get going."


    Lu Nianzhi was still reeling from the shock. Seeing Huo Shao Ting approach, she let go of Rong Dai''s hand.


    "Get some rest when you''re home. I''ll contact you when I''m better."


    Rong Dai nodded, watching as Lu Nianzhi left before looking towards Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao..."


    Before she could finish speaking, she was enveloped in his warm embrace, her mouth covered by his.


    Her heart trembled. She had just survived a life-and-death trial.


    Normally she would have rejected such intimate contact in public.


    But she saw the worry, anxiety and fear in his eyes.


    She didn''t struggle, hugging Huo Shao Ting tightly around the waist, passionately responding to his kiss.


    Although it was a close shave, the experience made both of them understand their hearts clearly.


    Rong Dai knew she could never leave this man.


    He was her destiny.


    And she wanted to protect this destiny with all her might.


    One passionate kiss was all it took for Rong Dai''s heart to finally calm down.


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting closely, holding him tightly around the waist. Though she said nothing, Huo Shao Ting understood everything.


    "Let''s go home."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was rich and gentle. Reaching out, he scooped her up in his arms.


    Rong Dai had her arms around his neck, gazing at the face she had been longing for day and night.


    At this moment, her heart was warm, fulfilled.


    On the turbulent ne, she had fainted and awakened, with only Huo Shao Ting in her mind and heart. She only wanted to return to his side.


    In that instant, she realized she could no longer leave Huo Shao Ting.

 Chapter 222: I Thought I鈥檇 never see you again.

    <h4>Chapter 222</h4>


    This incident, which was sensational but harmless, was quickly hyped up by the journalists lurking at the airport terminal, and made it to the hot search topics.


    The scene of Huo Shao Ting picking up Rong Dai and the couple hugging was also secretly photographed.


    Before dawn, Weibo was already abuzz.


    Rong Dai and her husband were not in the mood to look at these things. After cooperating with the airport staff toplete the inquiry, and having the big bump on her head simply treated, the couple went back home.


    Sitting in the back seat of the car, Rong Dai held Huo Shao Ting''s hand tightly the entire time. She sat on Huo Shao Ting''sp, with her cheek pressed tightly against his chest, listening to his strong and powerful heartbeat.


    Rong Dai felt very blissful.


    Huo Shao Ting also held her just as tightly, although the couple didn''t speak, their eye contact was worth more than thousands of words.


    The atmosphere in the car was ambiguous, and Zhang the assistant very tactfully slipped away after sending them to thepany.


    The couple took the elevator upstairs, and Rong Dai clung onto him tightly without letting go.


    After entering the room, Rong Dai hugged him even more forcefully, and her eyes instantly turned red.


    She had been suppressing it all this time.


    Suppressing the panic in her heart, the helpless fear when she woke up amidst the turbulence, it still felt vivid in her memory.


    "Shao Ting, I thought...I''d never see you again."


    Her words were mixed with sobs, the rm and unease in her beautiful eyes were very clear.


    At this moment, she did not have the dignity andposure of an empress.


    All she had was her identity as a wife, as a woman, seekingfort and reassurance from her husband with coquetry.


    She thought she was not afraid of death.


    But when it came down to it, she was still afraid.


    She was panicked, she was terrified.


    She was afraid of never seeing him again, of nevering back.


    She could no longer stop loving the man before her eyes.


    "That won''t happen, I''m right here, anytime."


    Huo Shao Ting took a deep breath inwardly. Seeing her like this, with tears on her face, panicked and helpless like a startled bird.


    It made his heart ache. He held her tightly in his arms, feeling her temperature and existence, only then was his heart at ease.


    His panic was no less than hers.


    "Shao Ting, I, I..."


    Rong Dai cried until her eyes were red and swollen, and her entire body shuddered with sobs.


    She had always been strong and resolute.


    But those who have never experienced facing death firsthand would never understand that kind of terror.


    Standing on tiptoes, her slender arms hugged his neck tightly. Her kisses were a little clumsy as they fell on Huo Shao Ting''s thin lips.


    This was the first time she took the initiative.


    Rong Dai had never imagined she would be so bold, to actively seek intimacy.


    But she just wanted to follow her heart''s needs at the moment, only his filling her up would make her feel at ease.


    She needed his warmth, needed action to prove the danger had passed.


    Huo Shao Ting originally wanted her to take a bath and rest properly.


    Although he craved her very much, and missed her taste.


    But experiencing something like this, her unease and panic were normal.


    Plus she had been working hard these days, he didn''t want her to exert herself further.


    But Rong Dai''s passion tonight exceeded his imagination.


    Her arousal, her enthusiasm, every subtle change made Huo Shao Ting extremely delighted yet loving.


    Not until dawn, when Rong Dai fell asleep exhausted on the messy bed, did this shamelessly passionate encounter gradually quiet down.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t sleep. After covering Rong Dai with the quilt, he was about to get up to arrange some matters, but found that Rong Dai was still gripping his palm tightly, unwilling to let go.


    His eyes shed with heartache, he turned to gaze at her, stroking her messy, sticky hair with one hand, and effortlessly lifted her up in his arm from the waist with the other hand.


    After cleaning her carefully, Rong Dai was sleeping deeply.


    cing her on the bed, his eyes were full of pampering tenderness. He kissed her slightly swollen lips, before getting up and putting on a robe to handlepany affairs.


    Although Zhang the assistant was prepared, seeing his boss wanting to ck off today still made him clutch his head in distress.


    But work still had to be done.


    After getting this done, Huo Shao Ting returned to bed and fell asleep hugging Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai slept deeply this time, not waking until the afternoon.


    She moved her body, the soreness made her frown involuntarily.


    Recalling how she took the initiativest night, and Huo Shao Ting''s passion, her heart tingled and her cheeks flushed hotly.


    "Awake? What do you want to eat? Hubby will make it for you."


    Huo Shao Ting opened his eyes, one of his hands still encircled her slender waist.


    Seeing the blush on her cheeks, his eyes smiled affectionately as he leaned down to kiss her earlobe.


    Rong Dai instantly tensed up!


    Last night felt like a dream, as if it was an illusion.


    But she understood her heart now.


    He was her husband, and she was his wife.


    When affection runs deep into desire, she shouldn''t feel conflicted anymore.


    Thinking this, she rxed.


    She turned to face him, resting her head on his sturdy arm. Seeing his handsome face up close, her heart still couldn''t help but flutter lightly.


    "Shao Ting..."


    She softly called his name, and took the initiative to kiss his chin.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart also trembled lightly. He held her by the waist, his big hand tightening to pull her closer against himself.


    Such unobstructed contact still made Rong Dai blush instinctively to her ears.


    Her beautiful eyes were full of feelings. This charming posture easily ignited Huo Shao Ting''s urge.


    "What do you want to eat?"


    But for her wellbeing, Huo Shao Ting still restrained himself.


    Rong Dai sensed his change, her eyes suddenly turned sly and seductive. One hand took the initiative to cling to his neck, her voice gentle and soft, "How about Huo sir?"


    Her words instantly made Huo Shao Ting''s breathing hurried.


    Perhaps because ofst night''s breakthrough, Rong Dai also didn''t keep her pride, but responded passionately and enthusiastically.


    The consequence was Rong Dai unable to get out of bed, only able to eat while sitting in bed.


    She red at him a little indignantly, but her heart was sweet.


    Being by his side still, this feeling was so good.


    After a simple meal, Rong Dai leaned against the bed browsing her phone.


    Last night''s events had upied the hot search topics for a whole day already. For her, being able to return to Huo Shao Ting''s side unharmed was more important than anything.


    She was about to turn off her phone when she saw an official news notification pushed up on Weibo.


    TK Fashion Show postponed for 10 days.


    The striking words instantly made Rong Dai''s eyes light up!

 Chapter 223: Scold Out of the Earth

    <h4>Chapter 223</h4>


    "Rest well, don''t look at your phone anymore."


    Huo Shao Ting cleaned up the bowls and chopsticks and came in to see her engrossed in her phone, and frowned to remind her.


    Rong Dai was in a very good mood, with a charming smile on her beautiful face, and beckoned him over.


    Huo Shao Ting wiped his hands and walked to the bedside. Although there was heating in the room, the weather in Shenjing in January was extremely cold.


    He took a wool sweater and covered her with it, then tucked in the quilt and held her in his arms.


    Rong Dai leaned against his chest ordingly, showing him the hot search on her phone, "The TK Show is postponed for ten days, which is good news for me."


    "Shao Ting, this is a great opportunity for me. I like embroidery and want to make it my career."


    "I know how fortunate I am as your wife that I don''t have to worry about material needs. But I think I can do even better."


    "Although I don''t care about theirments and opinions, I don''t want to give people an excuse to attack you because of my personal reasons."


    She put her phone aside, turned slightly to hug Huo Shao Ting''s waist, and said in a soft, sincere voice.


    Huo Shao Ting understood her thoughts, raised his hand to tidy up the stray hair at her temple, and kissed her forehead, "Just do what you want, I''ll always be there for you."


    Rong Dai felt a warmth rising in her heart as she pressed her head tightly against his chest.


    "Rest for a while longer, I''ll take care of some things."


    After hugging each other for about ten minutes, seeing that she still looked tired, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help but kiss her cheek. Thinking of the hardships she endured at the film and television city, he felt heartache.


    Rong Dai was indeed tired, nodding and lying down to sleep again.


    After she fell asleep, Huo Shao Ting took hisptop to the sofa to work.


    Since his wife was busy starting a business and had no time to apany him, he would have to make time to apany her.


    He had just been working for a few minutes when Lu Nianzhi sent him a text asking if he needed PR.


    The nearly hour-long loss of contact on the nest night, although only a short hour, she and Rong Dai had both experienced a life-and-death test.


    No one had more right to speak than them who had experienced it.


    However, when Huo Shao Ting went to pick her upst night, the moment he kissed Rong Dai was captured by the paparazzi and became a hot search item.


    The public''s attitude towards Rong Dai now is very unforgiving.


    Appearing in the hot search several times, and all for very bad things.


    Coupled with Yang Wanwan''s previous incident, in the eyes of the public, Rong Dai is now just a rich man''s wife.


    She was neither a professional academy graduate, nor an insider, yet she kept appearing in the hot search, which had already aroused someizens'' hatred.


    What was just a reunion after a harrowing experience was vilified byizens who cursed Rong Dai out of the.


    Even the word "bitch" was considered quite friendly in these viciousments.


    Seeing these words on the screenshot, Huo Shao Ting''s eyebrows were knotted into lumps.


    The halo around him could bring glory to his woman, but at the same time it was also a cage that restrained her.


    He didn''t want Rong Dai to lose herself. The glory he could give Rong Dai only needed to be icing on the cake.


    He understood Rong Dai''s thoughts, and at this moment, seeing these vicious words, he was even more determined to support his wife''s career to the end.


    What he could give Rong Dai was ultimately only because of his personal reasons.


    If one day, Rong Dai didn''t need his halo to protect herself, she could still shut these foul mouths up, that would be glory that belonged to her.


    "Handle it."


    He sent two words back to Lu Nianzhi, and continued working.


    After receiving the reply, Lu Nianzhi immediately went to handle the matter. Not long after Huo Shao Ting was processingpany affairs, he received a call from Mrs. Huo.


    Afraid of waking up Rong Dai, he got up and closed the study door.


    The olddy was in a good mood, now preparing to board the ne back home.


    "There''s something you have to be on guard against..."


    The olddy warned him seriously and solemnly. Huo Shao Ting listened very quietly.


    "These things were all told to me by Rong Rong. She cares a lot about you. I''ve given you full authority over thepany''s affairs and won''t interfere anymore."


    "But sometimes being aggressive is good, but being too aggressive is prone to breaking. You need to be clear who you are dealing with."


    "Let everyone have a good New Year this year first, you also have time to buffer, don''t be in too much of a hurry."


    The olddy exhorted him earnestly. She knew her eldest grandson''s temper too well.


    Huo Second Master''s family and those shareholders had already worn out his patience.


    "I understand, Grandma."


    Huo Shao Ting answered calmly. From the corner of his eye he nced at theputer data on the table, and a sharp look appeared in his deep eyes.


    Although he intended to let people have a peaceful year, no one wanted him to have a peaceful year.


    After hanging up with the olddy, he continued working. Rong Dai slept until night.


    Seeing the dazzling night view of Shenjing outside the window, Rong Dai came to the study with a thin nket wrapped around her to find him.


    "Don''t overwork yourself, Shao Ting."


    She leaned on his shoulder and looked at the data on theputer screen, which was like hieroglyphics to her.


    "Come here."


    Huo Shao Ting pulled back his chair slightly and put his arm around Rong Dai''s waist to sit her on hisp.


    Although Rong Dai was a tall 175cm for a girl, she still looked much daintier sitting in Huo Shao Ting''s arms, as Huo Shao Ting was a full 190cm tall.


    "Have you decided on a name for the studio?" He moved the mouse to turn off the data and brought up some pictures.


    "These locations are all good. See which one you like?"


    Huo Shao Ting asked her.


    Rong Dai looked at these ces carefully and seriously. Although the photos looked very good, she still wanted to go and see them herself.


    "Leave it to Sister Nianzhi. I''ll go take a look with her tomorrow."


    Mainly because she had other ideas. For her studio, she wanted to buy it, not rent it.


    "Okay, but over the next few days until New Year''s, your job is to rest well. After the New Year, if you want to work again I won''t stop you."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded.


    Rong Dai also nodded without objecting to his words.


    Although the TK Show was postponed, her time was still very tight.


    But she didn''t want to rush out her work either, because then it wouldn''t be what she wanted.


    Taking advantage of these days to rest while doing some light work, and taking time to conceive her pieces well.


    For her, this was both a chance to rx and ample time to conceptualize her work.


    "As for the studio name...how about Mn Fragrance?"


    She looked at him brightly for his opinion.


    She had decided on the name for the studio long ago. Mn''s story of going to war was alreadymon knowledge.


    She greatly admired this heroine in her previous life.


    At one time, she had also wanted to be such a heroine, but in the end she was still buried in that pce of red walls and yellow tiles.

 Chapter 224: Carry Me Forever

    <h4>Chapter 224</h4>


    This life ispleted in another form, which also seems not bad.


    "Traveling thousands of miles to join the army, the mountains and rivers pass as if flying. Although Huaxia Country is currently peaceful and prosperous, the war in everyone''s life has never ceased. My war starts from this grand event."


    Rong Dai''s voice was crisp, but extremely firm.


    "Shao Ting, I know you will support me, right?"


    She looked up at him. Her eyes were not pure brown or ck, but mixed with some grayish blue that was hard to see unless looking closely.


    Moreover, her eyes were the rare Rui Feng eyes, domineering and sharp when stern, with a very scary gaze!


    But with such a charming and girly attitude, her eyes naturally carried mist and ayer of blur, making people feel tender love.


    "What else can I do?"


    Facing her coquettishness, Huo Shao Ting was helpless, but even more so, his heart softened.


    His wife had finally taken off her armor little by little.


    He hugged her and kissed her forehead lightly. His voice was extremely doting.


    A smile appeared on Rong Dai''s charming face. She reached out to hug his waist, her voice light: "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    Because I have you, I have the courage to move forward.


    "When will mothere back? Let''s go home tonight? I haven''t gone back to see mom since I came back."


    Coquettishness aside, Rong Dai did not forget her identity as the daughter-inw of the Huo family.


    Huo Shao Ting stroked her hair. After closing hisptop, he looked at her tenderly and asked, "Can you walk?"


    Hearing his annoying words, Rong Dai had an urge to w the walls!


    Her ears turned a little red, and she red at him angrily: "I think in the future, the house will need to prepare an extra bedroom."


    She had never imagined the ecstasy between men and women could be so crazy. Knowing that she was shy, this guy still used this to tease her every time.


    "I''m serious."


    Huo Shao Ting had a smile on his handsome face. To show that he was serious, his eyes even showed a solemn look.


    Rong Dai was both angry and amused, and a little helpless.


    "I can walk. If you do this again next time, you will... carry me for the rest of your life!"


    She threatened Huo Shao Ting, but did not have the majesty and sharpness of an empress, but rather had a hint of coquettishness.


    Seeing her like this, Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened into a puddle.


    "Okay..."


    He answered her lightly, picked Rong Dai up to stand on the chair, and slightly bent over in front of her.


    "What are you doing?"


    Seeing him bend over, Rong Dai panicked a little.


    She was just joking!


    Huo Shao Ting looked back at her. Motioning for her toe up, he said, "Carrying my Mrs. Huo."


    Rong Dai''s heart was beating wildly. Her cheeks were hot and flushed red. Her heart was trembling again and again. Her voice was a little panicked as she said to him, "I was joking with you. I can walk!"


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly straightened up. His big hands sped her slender waist, and his deep eyes were serious and solemn: "Wife, I take every word from you seriously. No jokes."


    Rong Dai''s heart skipped a beat. He had said this to her before.


    Suddenly, her nose sourced inexplicably for some reason.


    How fortunate she was to meet someone who loved her to the bone.


    "I''ll remember that."


    She also nodded solemnly, then obedientlyy on his broad back.


    Her body was incredibly soft. Since the room had the heat on, she only wore a silk strappy nightgown, nothing else.


    The moment she leaned over, Huo Shao Ting''s whole body suddenly tensed!


    "What''s wrong? Am I... too heavy?"


    Feeling his change, Rong Dai was startled and almost wanted to stand up, but was held by his warm palms on her legs, so she could only obediently lie there.


    "No."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice contained some hoarseness, and his ears were suspiciously red.


    Rong Dai was attentive and noticed it at a nce.


    Her heart also couldn''t help but skip a beat, and her body unexpectedly became hot.


    Although the two were very familiar with each other''s pleasure, inadvertent moments could still arouse each other''s desire.


    Especially this kind of short parting like a honeymoon.


    "Okay, okay, Shao Ting, put me down..."


    Rong Dai''s breathing became hurried, and the heat and mor made her a little ufortable. She didn''t even know she had such a strong desire for the man in front of her.


    Huo Shao Ting could feel her change. After putting her down, whether it was because Rong Dai''s legs were weak herself, she fell back all of a sudden, reflexively grabbing his clothes.


    Pulling Huo Shao Ting down together onto the big bed.


    Face to face, sparks flew, and the room with the heat on quickly heated up!


    "Shao Ting..."


    Her eyes were misty, and her voice was soft, numbingly reaching Huo Shao Ting''s heart.


    Hearing her soft call, Huo Shao Ting naturally couldn''t restrain himself.


    "Shao Ting..."


    After a period of passion, Rong Dai cried with tears in her eyes again, and couldn''t help biting his shoulder to beg for mercy...


    When the couple returned to the Huo residence, it was already nine o''clock in the evening.


    "Mom."


    Seeing mother-inw Lu Zheng, Rong Dai was still used to being dignified. Her voice crisp as she called out.


    Lu Zheng now also epted this daughter-inw. As long as her son was happy, her son was happy, this was better than anything.


    Moreover, she knew best what kind of person her son was.


    If her son believed in Rong Dai, she would naturally believe in her too.


    "You''re back. Come and sit down."


    Lu Zheng hurriedly put down the remote control and walked over with a smiling face. Her eyes looked Rong Dai up and down.


    Seeing that she was much thinner, her eyes inevitably showed distress.


    "Wang Ma, serve the pig stomach chicken soup I asked you to cook for Rong Dai quickly."


    Lu Zheng called out to the kitchen, while pulling Rong Dai''s hand to sit on the sofa.


    Rong Dai walked with some difficulty because the price of indulgence was her two legs being sore.


    Lu Zheng was experienced, and could naturally perceive it.


    Although happy in her heart, she was also worried that Rong Dai''s petite body couldn''t handle it.


    Seeing Wang Ma bring out the pig stomach chicken soup, she urged Rong Dai to drink it: "Try it quickly. It''s mostfortable to drink this soup when it''s cold out now."


    Rong Dai nodded. She was most afraid of the cold. Although it was just a few steps and the house had the heat on, her hands and feet were still icy cold.


    "Thank you, mom."


    Saying that, she took small sips of the hot soup.


    Lu Zheng smiled satisfiedly. Seeing Huo Shao Ting and his assistant Zhang dragging in seven or eight suitcases, she hurried over.


    "Why so much luggage?"


    Huo Shao Ting nced at Rong Dai who was obediently drinking soup. The corner of his mouth lifted in a smile: "You''ll have to ask your daughter-inw."


    Rong Dai listened with her ears pricked up. Hearing what he said, she red at him angrily.


    Seeing her mother-inw turn her head, she immediately put down her bowl and got up. Ignoring the difort, she walked over and said, "Mom, these are all the specialties I brought back from Hangzhou. I haven''t been home these months and even took Mei Shu over there, so there was no one at home to chat with you."


    "I carefully selected all of these. I know you don''tck anything, mom, but they are all my little gifts. Don''t look down on them, mom."


    Saying that, she opened one of the suitcases. It was full of gifts.


    Jewelry, coats, skincare products, etc. Rong Dai had brought almost the entire mall back.


    Of course Lu Zhengcked nothing, but Rong Dai''s thoughtfulness made her beam with joy.

 Chapter 225: A Big Black Pot 02

    <h4>Chapter 225</h4>


    "It''s the thought that counts, you work so hard filming, these things can also be bought when we''re back in Shenjing," Lu Zheng said with a smile. But she was looking over the gifts as she spoke.


    She herself came from a good background. Although she had gone through crises after marrying into the Huo family, in the end she still lived afortable, privileged life and had seen many nice things. At a nce, she could tell the quality of the gifts Rong Dai had chosen - she had really taken great care in selecting them.


    What Lu Zheng valued wasn''t how much money was spent. The Huo family certainly wasn''t short on money. What mattered was that Rong Dai had this thoughtfulness.


    "Alright, I''ll try these slowlyter. You''re not feeling well, hurry and drink the soup, then go upstairs and rest early."


    Lu Zheng drew her gaze back, urging her to hurry at the same time.


    Rong Dai could hear the deeper meaning in her mother-inw''s words. Her ears grew hot all of a sudden, and she shot Huo Shao Ting a shy, annoyed nce.


    If not for this guy, how could she be embarrassed in front of her mother-inw?


    "Now, your mother has been through this too, you just got married, it''s understandable to miss each other after a short separation, but you still need to restrain yourselves," Lu Zheng said with a smile, admonishing the couple. Then she called Mrs. Wang over to help move the gifts into her room.


    Rong Dai felt both embarrassed and annoyed. Her beautiful eyes shed with charming anger as she red at Huo Shao Ting. Only then did she obediently go back to drink the soup.


    When she was filming at the movie studio, although a nutritionist prepared all her daily meals and the food tasted good, in order to maintain her figure, she couldn''t eat many oily, heavy dishes. This pork belly and chicken soup was extremely delicious. She sipped it slowly with half-closed eyes, like azy little cat.


    A smile yed at the corners of Huo Shao Ting''s handsome face. He took off his suit jacket and went into the kitchen to pour her a cup of warm water.


    "If you like it, let Mrs. Wang make it again tomorrow. Eating too much at night will keep you from sleeping well."


    His voice was gentle and doting, and even the way he looked at Rong Dai was full of tenderness.


    Rong Dai made a little murmur like a cat towards him. She finished all the soup in the bowl, then took a sip of the warm water, finally satisfied.


    Lu Zheng came downstairs and saw the loving couple. Her heart waspletely at ease.


    "Mrs. Wang, I also brought gifts for you and Uncle Li, I just don''t know if they''ll be to your taste."


    Rong Dai got up again and with some effort dragged another suitcase over, taking out the gifts for Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li.


    Lu Zheng watched to the side. Seeing Rong Dai''s propriety towards others, she felt gratified.


    "Thank you, ma''am!"


    Mrs. Wang epted them with a smile, eyes full of joy.


    "Alright, it''s gettingte, hurry upstairs to rest."


    Seeing that Rong Dai was forcing herself and looking exhausted, Lu Zheng swept a reproachful nce at Huo Shao Ting.


    Rong Dai''s ears burned red and her cheeks flushed hot again and again. She could only hurry to say yes and almost fled upstairs.


    Knowing they wereing back, Mrs. Wang had thoughtfully changed the bedding for them.


    Although not a bright red for newlyweds, the light pink was cozy and ambiguous.


    As soon as she entered the bedroom, Rong Dai sat on the sofa and massaged her legs,pletely miserable.


    The price of indulgence was her legs suffering. Just walking a few steps made them sore and shaky.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were deep. He leaned down to kiss her forehead and put the thermal sk he brought for her on the table.


    "Rest a moment, I''ll run you a bath. Soaking will make you feel better."


    Rong Dai looked at him with eyes both pitiful and resentful, but could only nod helplessly in the end.


    Seeing her be more and more natural with him, more willing to show her feminine side, Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened.


    His gaze swept over her long, straight legs. His Adam''s apple moved and his eyes shed with passion.


    His wife''s legs were nothing short of legendary.


    When they were intimate, he had been restrained enough, afraid of hurting her.


    "Mr. Huo, what are you thinking about?"


    While massaging her legs, Rong Dai noticed Huo Shao Ting standing frozen there. Her internal rms went off and she asked sharply.


    Huo Shao Ting''s mouth curved up slightly. He looked at her with exceptionally gentle eyes. "Thinking of you."


    Rong Dai''s face burned. She grabbed a pillow in embarrassment and threw it at him. "Huo Shao Ting!"


    Seeing her shy anger, and her difort, he didn''t continue teasing her. He turned to the bathroom to run her bathwater.


    Only then did Rong Dai let out a long breath, and pped her zing hot cheeks.


    She would never have dreamed that one day she would be so intimate with a man like this.


    Listening to the water sounds from the bathroom, the corners of her lips curled up slightly. Her heart was warm and sweet.


    While Huo Shao Ting was running her bath, she took out her phone to browse Weibo.


    As soon as she opened Weibo, the message alerts shed nonstop. Her phone nearly crashed!


    Luckily she was familiar with these major social media tforms, having delved into them to understand this world. She quickly muted it and Weibo finally calmed down.


    On Weibo, she had been med to a crisp!


    The reason wasn''t anything else - it was because the flight was dyedst night and she had been out of contact at the terminal for nearly an hour.


    This news had undoubtedly gone viral.


    But the online heroes were more inclined to focus on the image of her and Huo Shao Ting kissing.


    "Shameless slut! With the entire flight hanging between life and death, she actually still shamelessly kissed in public! Truly shameless!"


    "Just seeing this woman makes me nauseous now, especially her pretentious face! If you''ve climbed into a wealthy family, just obediently be a rich housewife! Must youe out to trend every three days? Please keep a low profile!"


    "What a seductive whore! She just married into wealth, how long has it been? How many times has she trended already? Nothing good everes of it when she appears!"


    "Maybe this flight going missing was her doing too?"


    ...


    Thements went on endlessly, making Rong Dai''s eyes swim.


    She simply logged out of Weibo and rubbed her temples.


    She hadn''t expected that in a moment of losing control, she would bring such great condemnation onto herself.


    The officials had already confirmed that the flight losing contact was due to weather conditions.


    Yet all these murderous heroes insisted on pinning this huge crime on her!


    From Zuo Ran, to Wen Shi Lan, andter Yang Wanwan, she couldn''t even remember how many times she had trended.


    And it was more vicious each time!


    Although the Huo family was hugely wealthy and powerful, they weren''t royalty who could cover the sky with one hand.


    Huo Shao Ting''s previous thunderous methods could only silence them for a time, not forever.


    Because these people were deeply biased against her from the start.


    Rong Dai understood very clearly what the reason was.


    To these ordinary people, Huo Shao Ting was like an emperor, while she was just amoner who had married into wealth relying solely on her looks.


    In other words, in their eyes, she was someone with no background or abilities, and that was why they maliciously maligned her like this!

 Chapter 226: For the rest of my Life, It鈥檚 You.

    <h4>Chapter 226</h4>


    Rong Dai was very clear that in order to eliminate other people''s prejudices against her, she had two choices.


    Either she could acquiesce to their expectations and be what they wanted to see, or she could strengthen herself and be someone beyond their reach. There were no other options.


    But she was fearless. She had enough confidence and courage to pursue the pinnacle!


    After thinking for a moment, she took out her phone, opened Weibo, and reposted the official announcement from the TV studio, adding the remark: "Right and wrong, good and evil, justice is in people''s hearts."


    Then she turned off her phone and threw it on the sofa.


    Huo Shao Ting happened toe out of the bathroom as well. The man had a very fit physique, with sharp, tempting lines.


    Wearing a white shirt with the sleeves rolled up, a couple buttons on the cor undone revealing his sturdy chest, he looked very noble yet alluring.


    Rong Dai stared at him in a daze, her heart pounding like a startled deer, and her cheeks burned uncontrobly.


    She was already so familiar with his face and even his body, yet she still couldn''t help the throbbing in her heart.


    When Huo Shao Ting approached her, Rong Dai finally snapped back to her senses. Flustered, she hurriedly averted her gaze, wanting to stand up.


    But her legs went soft and she plopped back down on the sofa.


    "If you like looking, then look. I''m yours, no need to be sneaky about it," Huo Shao Ting said, smiling.


    He had noticed every enraptured look from his wife just now.


    All men have a strong desire to conquer, especially in front of the woman they love.


    He was only human, of course he was no exception.


    Rong Dai''s gradual changes recently had pleasantly surprised him, and the happiness wrapping around his heart grew thicker and thicker.


    The stronger this feeling became, the more he wanted to give her everything he could.


    Hearing this, Rong Dai''s ears turned red. Pretending to be annoyed, she red at him, "I wasn''t being sneaky!"


    Then she took the initiative to put her arms around his neck and acted cute, asking him to carry her to the bathroom.


    In her past life, she absolutely could not have done this.


    As the empress, every word and action had to be dignified and proper.


    Even in front of her husband, she had to maintain the poise of the mother of the nation at all times.


    If she ever went slightly over the line, she didn''t need the empress dowager to remind her, or the imperial concubines to mock her. The emperor would definitely be the first to correct her.


    Back then, she had thought that was what love was supposed to be.


    Only now did she truly understand what love meant.


    The emperor had never loved her at all, he only used her.


    Otherwise, wouldn''t a man be happier if his wife asionally acted coy?


    Yet the imperial noble consort was different. She received all of the emperor''s favor.


    The imperial noble consort could be willful, act cute, and pretend��she had every right belonging to a woman.


    At first, Rong Dai had thought those behaviors were just tricks the concubines used to gain favor.


    She didn''t expect that those words and actions could only exist when one was cherished by their beloved.


    Everything from her past life now seemed like smoke and clouds. Now, she finally had rights of her own.


    Rong Dai had to admit, expressing her emotions and desires so openly, without armor or shackles, felt natural and free.


    Seeing her be bolder and bolder pleased Huo Shao Ting. He wrapped his big hand around her slender waist and carried her princess-style to the bathroom.


    But once inside, Rong Dai shooed him back out.


    Rong Dai was really afraid of him. At his age, he was like a wolf or tiger, she really couldn''t handle his stamina.


    After a nice, rxing bath, she felt much morefortable.


    "What are you looking at?"


    After changing into a silk nightgown and doing simple skincare, Rong Dai climbed into bed and snuggled under the covers. Seeing Huo Shao Ting looking at his phone, she asked.


    Huo Shao Ting walked over to the bedside and handed her his phone, while he began unbuttoning his shirt.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks immediately flushed. She stole a nce at him, and her heart started pounding uncontrobly again.


    Vexed, she bit her lip and took the phone, turning away to look at it.


    Huo Shao Ting''s mouth quirked up in a faint smile. He took off his clothes and went into the bathroom.


    Rong Dai saw that he had reposted her Weibo post.


    After she had posted that Weibo, the number of clicks was shocking!


    Although it shut some people up, there were still plenty of foul-mouthed people.


    Huo Shao Ting had reposted her Weibo with thement: "The rest of my life is yours."


    Just five simple words, yet they made Rong Dai''s heart inexplicably tremble.


    She understood the meaning behind them.


    Turning the phone off and putting it on the nightstand, she snuggled under the covers waiting for Huo Shao Ting.


    Probably because filming had been so tiring recently, or perhaps the couple''s brief separation had been too exciting, she soon dozed off.


    Huo Shao Ting came out of the bathroom in a bath towel and saw his little wife already asleep, breathing evenly, her cheeks slightly flushed.


    His heart softened. After changing into pajamas, he carefully got into bed.


    As soon as hey down, Rong Dai frowned and automatically snuggled up to him, mumbling in her sleep, "Shao Ting, go to sleep..."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her face. He gently put his arm around her and kissed her forehead. "Go to sleep, dear."


    ...


    "Um...when we get back to Shenjing, can I still be your assistant? I know I''m a bit dumb, but...I really want to learn music from you."


    Huo Mei Shu was about to board her return flight to Shenjing from Hang City. She had to take this New Year''s flight or else the trip would be crammed.


    She had been Gu Chengyan''s assistant for almost a month now. Although she couldn''t exactly call herself a real assistant.


    She still hadn''t worked up the courage to say what was in her heart, but just being able to see him made her very content.


    Before leaving, Huo Mei Shu nervously mustered her courage and timidly asked Gu Chengyan the question she had held inside.


    Gu Chengyan looked at her, noticing her scarf was a bit loose. He reached out to adjust it for her.


    His hands were very attractive��slender, straight, fair, yet cold.


    When they brushed Huo Mei Shu''s neck, she couldn''t help but shiver slightly.


    But since her crush was fixing her scarf for her, even if she froze to death, she had to endure it!


    "You did very well. I opened a studio in Shenjing. If you don''t mind, you cane intern at mypany..."


    "I''m willing! Extremely willing!"


    Before Gu Chengyan could even finish, Huo Mei Shu excitedly nodded like a chicken pecking at rice. Her eyes were practically shootingser beams!


    This girl, really... He hadn''t even finished speaking.


    "Take good care of yourself, don''t catch a cold. Let me know when you arrive safely."


    Seeing Huo Mei Shu still grinning foolishly, Gu Chengyan felt very helpless. He had been waiting for the girl to grow up.


    Waiting for her toe to his side, but he didn''t expect the lively little girl from childhood to be shy after growing up.


    If he wasn''t proactive, his wife could get snatched away.


    "Okay, okay, okay... Gu Chengyan, you take care too. See you in Shenjing!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes crinkled into crescent moons. She eagerly nodded, then walked towards the gate, looking back every few steps until she boarded.

 Chapter 227: Asking for a Reward

    <h4>Chapter 227</h4>


    The next day, after a few days of light snow, Shenjing was very cold, but it could not withstand the enthusiasm of the New Year.


    Rong Dai slept veryfortably this night and woke up naturally.


    When she woke up, Huo Shao Ting was still by her side.


    She raised a shallow smile on her face and couldn''t help sliding her hand from Huo Shao Ting''s brow to his nose and all the way down.


    When she touched his thin lips, her heart suddenly shuddered, and her cheeks burned with embarrassment again.


    She was helpless inside, she had experienced a lifetime, but she could still have such a terrible feeling.


    Just as she was about to retract her hand, her slender hand was grabbed by Huo Shao Ting.


    "Mrs. Huo, after teasing do you want to run away? Hmm?"


    The man opened his eyes with a smile and looked at her, his voice slightly raised, mixed with some ridicule.


    Rong Dai red at him to cover up her embarrassment. She nced at the clock on the bedside table: "Get up quickly, Grandma ising back today, we can''t bete."


    With that, she immediately sat up.


    But the next second she was hugged by the slender waist by Huo Shao Ting and pulled into the quilt: "It''s cold, sleep a little longer."


    While speaking, he hugged her, not forgetting to take the opportunity to cop a feel.


    Rong Dai was a little annoyed. She was tired from filming, but her whole family couldn''t keep doting on her.


    She was no longer the empress, but a modern woman.


    "Don''t make trouble, get up quickly!"


    She urged while struggling, but although Huo Shao Ting only hugged her without using more force, she still couldn''t break free.


    On the contrary, her face turned red from the struggle, and at this time in the morning, it looked particrly tempting.


    "What is the reward for Mrs. Huo getting up early?"


    The man asked her with a smile at the corner of his mouth.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Is this guy a kid? He actually wants a reward?


    She soon realized what Huo Shao Ting was implying.


    Her ear tips turned redder, her heart was thumping wildly, and her breathing became chaotic.


    She quickly kissed his cheek, and raised her voice somewhat angrily: "Is this reward enough?"


    Seeing her shy and angry look, Huo Shao Ting''s heart had long since turned into a puddle of water.


    "Not enough, it has to be like this..."


    He shook his head and lowered his head to kiss her lips.


    Rong Dai suddenly widened her eyes, and her heart beat extremely fast!


    She was angry and annoyed inside, but there was more sweetness. She was about to respond when Huo Shao Ting left!


    He left her body, and after reacting, she stared at him angrily with beautiful eyes.


    This guy was teasing her so early in the morning.


    Seeing that she was dissatisfied, Huo Shao Ting felt distressed and kissed her again. Rong Dai immediately blushed.


    This kiss was lingering and moved her until Rong Dai went limp in his arms before Huo Shao Ting reluctantly parted.


    "Get up, if we continue I won''t be able to restrain myself, you know you taste good."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was mellow and maic. When he spoke so gently and indulgently, it was simply an audio feast for the ears.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks were red, her eyes dazed. She really couldn''t withstand Huo Shao Ting''s gentle offensive.


    She nodded obediently and got out of bed.


    When the husband and wife washed up, changed their clothes and went downstairs, Lu Zheng was already sitting at the dining table.


    "It''s still early, why not sleep a little longer? Your grandmother''s flight is not that early. You''ve worked hard recently, you should sleep more."


    Seeing the couplee down, Lu Zheng nced at the clock on the wall and asked.


    Rong Dai felt warm inside. The Huo family was really warm to her.


    But she still thought it was heartwarming. Most of the reason was because of Huo Shao Ting beside her.


    But she still felt warm. She nodded obediently: "Thank you, Mom."


    After breakfast, Lu Zheng took Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li out, and Rong Dai had originally wanted to go with them, but was rejected by her mother-inw.


    Rong Dai was a little helpless. Huo Shao Ting brought her a coat and scarf: "Go take a look at the address of the studio and make a decision, then go take a look at our home."


    If he didn''t say so, Rong Dai would have almost forgotten that they had also bought a house, although it was a rough one, but when she had a video call with Huo Shao Ting, he also said the house was being renovated.


    She had also drawn sketches and made some of her own requirements.


    "It''s done with the renovation already?"


    She was a little surprised and a little excited at the same time.


    Although it was very nice to live in the Huo house, she also liked the liveliness here.


    But after all, her future work focus would be on embroidery and branding, if she kept living in the Huo house, it would be a little inconvenient.


    Although the olddy and mother-inw were quite nice to her now, whether it was a wealthy family or an ordinary family, if the mother-inw and daughter-inw lived together for too long, there would always be conflicts.


    She didn''t want her presence to put Huo Shao Ting in a difficult position, nor did she want to disrupt the harmony of the Huo family.


    There was a saying on the Inte that was quite right, distance produces beauty.


    This saying also applied appropriately to mothers-inw and daughters-inw.


    "It''s almost done, just a few small details left. Go take a look, see what else is missing, and finalize it."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. He was looking forward to the small home he would live in with her, so he had to pay close attention.


    Rong Dai nodded. Huo Shao Ting had Zhang Assistant drive over. The couple got in the car and went straight to the three locations he had screened.


    The three ces were all good, and Rong Dai was very satisfied. In the end, she still chose thest one, in a hutong in Shenjing.


    It was a siheyuan courtyard house that had been newly renovated with some modern elements added, but still retained the overall architectural style.


    The courtyard was veryrge, with a shallow square pond. The yard was kept very clean and spacious.


    The key was thatpared to the prosperous and noisy CBD, it was much quieter here, and the environment was more suitable for creation.


    She had also checked the route. It was very close to both Huafu Mountain City and Huo Group Building.


    It was probably just a twenty minute walk, very convenient.


    "Why not just here? It''s quiet here, but also convenient, suitable for me to create."


    Rong Dai asked Huo Shao Ting tilted her head.


    "Madam is indeed telepathic with the president. The president also took a liking to this ce at first sight. The previous two ces were just backup options."


    Zhang Assistant knew well the power of the president''s wife, ttering the wife would definitely pay off!


    Rong Dai looked at the man beside her with a smirk: "Is that so?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her indulgently, his voice light: "If you like it, let''s buy it."


    Rong Dai''s smile disappeared instantly: "Just rent it, no need to buy so troublesome."


    Thest time buying a house had already scared her. If they bought this courtyard this time, then in the future she would really not dare to say she liked anything in front of Huo Shao Ting.

 Chapter 228: As Long As You Like

    <h4>Chapter 228</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting gestured for Zhang Assistant to proceed with the arrangements before walking over and embracing her from behind. He lowered his head and whispered in her ear, "A New Year''s gift for you."


    Rong Dai leaned against his chest, now having a deep understanding of the housing prices in Shengjing. She sighed lightly and turned her head to look at him.


    "Shao Ting, actually, it would be enough to rent. I know you''re not short on money, but spending billions so easily, I feel a bit..."


    She felt a bit anxious.


    His kindness towards her was multiplied, and she was afraid that she wouldn''t be able to reciprocate the same level of kindness to him.


    "I''ve told you not to burden yourself. I won''t stop you from doing anything, but don''t stop me from treating you well."


    Huo Shao Ting understood what she meant and lightly kissed her earlobe, his voice gentle.


    "Although money is a worldly possession, we are just ordinary people."


    "Wife, I''m just an ordinary person too."


    "I work hard to earn money and provide for our family, just to spend it on you and make you happy and secure."


    "I''ve promised to be a good husband to you and spending money on my wife is my responsibility."


    Listening to his words, Rong Dai''s heart softened.


    What else could she say?


    The warmth radiating from this man was more than she could bear, but she just happened to love this kind of warmth.


    Besides, Zhang Assistant had already gone downstairs to handle things, so it was impossible for her to stop it now.


    "But in the future, don''t casually buy houses like this, it''s too extravagant."


    She said helplessly.


    "Then gold? Diamonds? Or maybe a castle or a vineyard, as long as you like it."


    Huo Shao Ting asked her in a soft voice.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    How about buying the World Bank for me?


    "Really? How about buying me a piece ofnd?"


    She jokingly asked him, and if Huo Shao Ting could do these things for her, she would already be very satisfied.


    The human heart is like an abyss. The more you get, the more you want, and it can never be satisfied.


    She was afraid that she would get used to Huo Shao Ting''s tender and considerate care for her, and if he had even the slightest w in the future, she would haveints.


    That was very scary.


    She just wanted to walk with the man in front of her in an ordinary and peaceful manner and cherish every moment spent with him.


    "Alright."


    Huo Shao Ting lightly smiled and gently sucked on her earlobe, his voice soft as he replied.


    Naturally, he knew that Rong Dai''s words were a joke.


    But he had said that he never took her words as a joke, he was serious.


    Since this was what his wife wanted, he would do it even if he had to go all out.


    The couple decided on the address for their studio, had lunch at a nearby restaurant, and then drove to Huafu Hill City.


    Designer Li Cong and his team had been waiting here for a while. When they saw the couple approaching, he immediately walked up to them.


    "Mr. Huo, Mrs. Huo."


    "Mr. Li." Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded in greeting.


    "The renovation is almostplete, and we have taken care of all the requests Mrs. Huo made. Both of you can have a look, and if there''s anything that needs to be changed, we can discuss it on the spot."


    Li Cong was well-known in the industry, but his attitude remained humble.


    Rong Dai smiled and nced at him, saying, "I believe in Mr. Li''s expertise."


    With that, she took Huo Shao Ting''s arm and entered the vi together.


    Because high-end environmentally friendly materials were used, there were almost no other odors in the house except for a faint woody fragrance.


    Li Cong led his team following the couple. As Rong Dai entered the vi, her eyes immediately lit up.


    This was her house, her little home with Huo Shao Ting.


    Seeing the interior decoration of the house, an indescribable sense of belonging and happiness surged in her heart.


    Since Huafu Hill City was a semi-open Chinese-style courtyard vi, the overall style of the decoration leaned towards Chinese design but also incorporated some modern elements.


    And Li Cong, having worked in the design team back then, was familiar with the overall structure of Huafu Hill City, so these elements blended together seamlessly.


    Elegant, tranquil, andfortable.


    This was the feeling Rong Dai desired.


    As the chief designer, Li Cong exined each room and every detail to Rong Dai attentively.


    From the dining room to the living room, the study to the bedroom, they all suited Rong Dai''s preferences.


    "This is the nursery. It has ample natural light, and the materials used are environmentally friendly, free from formaldehyde hazards."


    When they reached the nursery, Li Cong briefly mentioned.


    Rong Dai released her grip on Huo Shao Ting''s arm and walked to the wooden crib. She reached out and gently touched it. The room was decorated in a dreamlike manner, with colors that babies liked.


    Her gaze lingered as she touched the baby mobile hanging above the crib, and she couldn''t help but feel a pang in her heart, thinking about the unborn child from her previous life.


    She had always yearned for a child of her own. Would she be able to fulfill that in this life?


    "If you don''t like it, we can change it. There''s still time," Huo Shao Ting sensed her emotions and stepped forward, gently supporting her waist, his voice soft.


    Rong Dai quicklyposed herself. Her past was no longer relevant to her, and she wanted to focus on the future, to walk hand in hand with Huo Shao Ting.


    "I really like it," she looked up at him and said with a smile. "And I''m also looking forward to the arrival of our child."


    Huo Shao Ting tightened his grip on her waist. "It will happen, no rush."


    Rong Dai nodded. Because it concerned their child, she had stricter requirements for the nursery. She carefully checked every detail inside and out, and offered some suggestions.


    Li Cong had them noted down, and the group proceeded to see the dedicated studio prepared for Rong Dai, where she would do embroidery.


    After going through it inside and out, Rong Dai was extremely satisfied.


    "Mr. Li is truly professional!" Rong Dai couldn''t help but praise.


    Li Cong smiled, nced at Huo Shao Ting, who stood silently beside her, overseeing the eptance process, and replied to her, "This is my job, but in fact, all these details were proposed by Mr. Huo. He personally finalized every aspect."


    "I and my team simply followed his instructions."


    Rong Dai felt a warm sensation in her heart after listening. She couldn''t help but turn her head and look at Huo Shao Ting standing beside her.


    This man had actually remembered the things she said when they were looking at houses.


    Although she had only mentioned a few requirements and desired styles for the house''s decoration, and hadn''t interfered in any other matters, he had taken extra care with everything. This made her feel a tinge of guilt.


    "Well, if Mr. and Mrs. Huo have no objections, then we will head back for now. We will handle the remaining tasks as quickly as possible."


    Li Cong, being experienced, knew that it was time to leave.

 Chapter 229: I like Everywhere you are.

    <h4>Chapter 229</h4>


    After Li Cong left with his team, Rong Dai turned around and put her hands on Huo Shao Ting''s shoulders. Tip-toeing, she said, "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    Thank you for loving me so warmly, thank you for loving me so hard.


    Huo Shao Ting smiled faintly, hugging her slender waist so that she wouldn''t have to tiptoe and get tired.


    "Do you like it?"


    Rong Dai''s eyes were twinkling with tiny stars. She nodded vigorously, "I like it very much, very much. This is our home."


    "Yes, a home that belongs to only you and me."


    Huo Shao Ting''s smile was charming. He leaned down and kissed her forehead gently. His heart was also very soft.


    He looked forward more and more to the married life after moving into this vi with his wife.


    "But everything here is what I like. What about you?"


    This was what made Rong Dai feel guilty and heartache.


    The whole decoration and design of the home was based on her taste.


    He knew his identity. Every detail of the design was done carefully. But there was nothing that belonged to Huo Shao Ting.


    "You are mine. So what you like, I like too."


    Huo Shao Ting held her in his arms, every word was heart-melting.


    "I only need you. Anywhere with you, I like."


    He murmured softly, unable to resist kissing her lips.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were as bright as the stars. Hearing his words, her earlobes blushed again, and her heart trembled lightly.


    When his soft lips touched hers, the throbbing in her heart could no longer be suppressed. She also responded to him softly.


    After the kiss, Rong Dai''s cheeks were flushed.


    If it weren''t for theck of heating and made bed in the room, she had no doubt that Huo Shao Ting would have "taken action" immediately.


    "Let''s go pick up grandma."


    Rong Dai hugged his arm. There was a faint smile on her charming face.


    Huo Shao Ting tidied her hair, then the couple left the vi and drove to the airport.


    When they arrived, the olddy''s flight had justnded.


    "Grandma!"


    Seeing the olddy with a ruddyplexion and smiling faceing out with several olddy friends, Rong Dai smiled and waved at her. Her voice was sweet as she called out.


    Huo Old Madam immediately saw the extremely affectionate couple. She was overjoyed. She bid farewell to her friends on the spot and walked over to them.


    "The weather in Shenjing is cold. Does grandma want to put on a coat?"


    Rong Dai was holding arge down jacket. She had put it in the car when they went out.


    "It is a bit cold. Rong Rong is really a thoughtful little cotton-padded jacket!"


    The olddy was in a very good mood. She smiled kindly and pinched Rong Dai''s fair nose. After putting on the down jacket, the grandmother and grandson set off for the Huo family home.


    Soon after the grandmother and grandson returned to the Huo family home, Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu also rushed home.


    "Shao Jie, Mei Shu, when did youe back?"


    Seeing them return, Rong Dai was a little surprised.


    But counting the days, tomorrow was New Year''s Eve.


    It was the rule of the Huo family that no matter what, they must return home for the holidays.


    Huo Mei Shu took off her scarf. It was evident that she was in a very good mood, indicating that things were going well with Mr. Gu.


    "We originally wanted you toe pick us up, but the weather in Shenjing was too cold. So we just took a taxi back."


    "Sister-inw, can you pour me a ss of hot water? I''m freezing!"


    While Huo Mei Shu was rubbing her hands, she said.


    Rong Dai smiled and went into the kitchen to pour them warm boiled water. By now, the olddy had also changed her clothes and came downstairs.


    "Grandma!"


    After gulping down the water, Huo Mei Shu saw the olddying downstairs. She immediately fluttered over like a butterfly.


    Huo Shao Jie simply called out and then copsed on the sofa.


    Seeing the family so harmonious, Rong Dai felt a burst of warmth in her heart. She saw Huo Shao Ting hang up the phone ande downstairs.


    With a faint smile on her face, she went up to him and asked him a little mischievously, "Mr. Huo, can you be my sous chef today?"


    She really liked such an atmosphere in the Huo family, with the olddy, mother-inw, uncle and aunt all being very nice to her.


    These were not things that could be reciprocated with money. She could only do things within her ability that could also make them happy.


    Even if it was just a little bit.


    Huo Shao Ting understood her thoughts. He stroked her cheek, "No need for that. We have Auntie Wang in the house. You''ll be working soon. These hands cannot be injured."


    Her hands were precious. Even if she didn''t have to embroider, he didn''t want her to work so hard.


    Rong Dai knew he was worrying for her.


    But after New Year, she would have to prepare for the embroidery work. She was very clear how precious her hands were.


    So there wouldn''t be many opportunities to cook anymore.


    "It''s just New Year. I won''t cook anymore after I start working, okay?"


    Her tone was slightly coquettish. She also wanted to give back some warmth to the Huo family within her capabilities.


    Even if it was just a little.


    "Big brother! Just say yes to sister-inw! It''s rare that grandma is back after so long. Let grandma taste sister-inw''s cooking too. I don''t have that skill, otherwise I would definitely cook too!"


    Huo Mei Shu had overheard the couple''s conversation. As soon as she heard that her sister-inw wanted to cook, she immediately became spirited!


    Huo Shao Ting nced at her indifferently, "I see you just want to eat and don''t care about getting fat."


    Huo Mei Shu immediately stuck out her tongue yfully and hugged the olddy''s arm, leaning against her shoulder with a smile, "As long as it''s made by sister-inw, I don''t care how much I eat!"


    "Your mouth is getting more and more slick. Did you practice that with Gu Chengyan?"


    Huo Shao Jie, who was about to fall asleep, also chimed in, immediately attracting an eye roll from Huo Mei Shu.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and pulled Huo Shao Ting into the kitchen.


    In fact, she was a little afraid to face the olddy because of Zuo Ran''s affair. It really couldn''t be described simply as "out of line".


    Reputation and family values were what big families valued most.


    If reputation was damaged and family values not strict, even the most prosperous families would decline.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve talked to grandma about it already."


    How could Huo Shao Ting not see her concerns?


    Seeing her a little absent-minded, he whispered into her ear softly.


    Zuo Ran and Yue Mu Ya''s affairs were indeed disgraceful, but he didn''t care.


    What mattered to him was his future with her. Whatever she had experienced before was already in the past.


    He had never been one to dwell on the past and live in the past.


    Otherwise, the Huo family business would not have thrived under him either.


    He only cared about the feelings between Rong Dai and him, about their life ahead.


    Although he had originally wanted her to tell the olddy herself, he knew the olddy''s temper very well.


    So he took preemptive measures. Since he had married Rong Dai, he would be responsible to the end.


    He didn''t even have time to feel heartache for her, how could he bear to see her sad?

 Chapter 230: It鈥檚 my job to protect you, too.

    <h4>Chapter 230</h4>


    Rong Dai was a little surprised. He had said before that he would let her do the talking.


    "I don''t want to make things difficult for you. Protecting you is also my responsibility. I understand the olddy''s temper better than you," Huo Shao Ting saw what she meant and kissed her cheek lightly. If it wasn''t for his wet hands, he would have wanted to hug her and give her a sense of security.


    "Make her a nice meal to coax her. That will be enough."


    "Those things were not your fault or cause. You don''t need to me or feel guilty about yourself."


    "Rong Dai, those things happened before I met you. I won''t dwell on it. I just want to tell you that you only need to care about how I feel in the whole world. You don''t need to worry so much about other people."


    His gaze was very serious. His handsome face with distinct lines was without a smile, only earnestness.


    Rong Dai''s anxious heart miraculously calmed down after hearing what he said.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    She gently leaned against his chest, feeling extremely settled.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t say much more. He just pecked her lips lightly, "Go cook now."


    Rong Dai nodded. The couple worked together to make a big table full of sumptuous food.


    "Sister-inw, your cooking skills... I really don''t know what to say! How excellent!" Huo Mei Shu looked extremely satisfied while eating and gave a thumbs up in praise!


    "I made it," Huo Shao Ting mercilessly burst her bubble.


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression froze instantly. She argued forcefully, "That''s also because my sister-inw was in the kitchen!"


    Rong Dai smiled faintly without saying anything. The family had a harmonious dinner together.


    "Rong Rong,e to my room for a bit."


    After the meal, although the olddy still had a faint smile on her face, her dignity was even more prominent.


    She looked at Rong Dai and said a sentence, then instructed Aunt Wang, "Aunt Wang, brew some fruit tea."


    Rong Dai instinctively wanted to look at Huo Shao Ting, but found out he had left to take a call.


    She sighed lightly in her heart. The inevitable still could not be avoided.


    "Go on. Granny won''t make things difficult for you."


    Lu Zheng had been staying in Shenjing all this time, so she knew the ins and outs of the matter.


    She was also an experienced person, so she could tell Rong Dai''s nervousness and unease at a nce. She lightly patted Rong Dai''s shoulder to reassure her.


    Rong Dai nodded, "Thank you, mother."


    Then she looked up at the olddy who had gone upstairs. She turned around to go to the kitchen to help Aunt Wang brew the fruit tea before taking it upstairs.


    "Granny," she called out softly and put the fruit tea on the table.


    The olddy, who was sitting on the sofa, nodded and gestured for her to close the door first.


    Rong Dai did not dare to be negligent and went to close the door. Then she walked back and stood to the side properly without daring to sit down.


    "Sit down to talk."


    It took about five or six seconds before the olddy let her sit down.


    Rong Dai hesitated a little before sitting down, but her back was still straight and she sat very properly.


    Huo Old Madam looked up to examine her.


    Although Rong Dai had experienced storms in her previous life and dealt with many difficult women of fortune,


    things were different here than in her previous life. Especially now that she considered herself a part of the Huo family.


    She could not use the methods from her previous life to deal with the olddy. She could only parry the olddy''s anger and try to defuse it as much as possible.


    After all, that kind of thing was not only uneptable by society, but also tarnished the Huo family''s reputation.


    If she put herself in the olddy''s shoes to think about this matter, she would also be very angry.


    "You girl... don''t hide such things in the future. What if next time she doesn''t have so many reservations and just tries to kill you?"


    Huo Old Madam saw her restraint. She was also very fond of this child. Her eyes could not be wrong.


    The feelings between this young couple were good.


    Since Huo Shao Ting had epted it, she, as the old mother-inw, had no reason to object either.


    Moreover, it was she who had strongly matched them in the first ce.


    There were just some things that needed to be said.


    When Rong Dai heard that the olddy was not ming her as she opened her mouth, she was a little surprised and subconsciously looked at the olddy.


    Huo Old Madam smiled and took a sip of the fruit tea, "I did intend to reprimand you, but I was afraid my eldest grandson would feel distressed. He already told me in advance."


    "I''m an old woman of advanced age. I don''t have as much temper anymore."


    The olddy''s smile was helpless yet benevolent. She looked at Rong Dai and sighed lightly, "I just want you to understand one thing."


    "Although it is said that taking a step back will make the sea and sky boundless, that is for distinguishing between people and monsters."


    "Life is not easy, especially for women it is even more difficult. If you were not lucky, you would be buried by this old woman now!"


    As she spoke, the olddy sighed lightly again and admonished her solemnly, "Now you are no longer alone, you have Shao Ting beside you."


    "That child has been lonely for too long. He needs someone tender and caring around him."


    "Seeing you two young ones get along so well now, this old woman can rest assured. It''s just that before you do anything, anything at all, your primary consideration should not only be yourself anymore, but also Shao Ting."


    "You should also think for him. If he encountered dangerous things and didn''t tell you until after it happened, wouldn''t you feel bad?"


    "If something really happened to you, have you thought about how Shao Ting would live alone? And what about if something happened to Shao Ting, how would you be?"


    Rong Dai''s heart ached as she listened. Her hands on her knees suddenly tightened.


    The olddy''s words made her realize some things. She was no longer alone now. She had Shao Ting.


    Zuo Ran''s matter was an ident, but she couldn''t exin anything.


    Since Shao Ting had already spoken to the olddy about it, and the olddy did not dwell on the matter, she also had no need to forcibly exin it all over again.


    "As a married couple, understanding is important. Granny just hopes that you will think more for that child Shao Ting in the future."


    "Although he doesn''t say it with his mouth, he cares a lot. That child is not talkative and won''t say nice things either. I know it must be difficult for you too. Just take it as granny begging you."


    The olddy did not know how the young couple got along in their daily life. She still thought her eldest grandson was as cold as always.


    As Rong Dai listened to the olddy''s words, scenes of Huo Shao Ting whispering sweet nothings into her ear uncontrobly shed through her mind one by one.


    If this was considered not talkative, what would being talkative be like?


    Of course, this was not something she could say. She sat properly and nodded obediently.


    "I will try my best," was all she could say in response. Some things were best kept between her and Shao Ting.


    Seeing her earnestness, the olddy nodded in satisfaction, "That''s good. This old woman shouldn''t interfere too much in you young couple''s affairs."


    "Now that you''ve bought a house, renovate it as soon as possible and move in to live your own little life."


    "Although there aren''t many people in this house, you being married and living long-term in the old house will also affect the development of your rtionship. Visiting me and your mother-inw ording to the set times is about right."


    Rong Dai listened carefully and obediently. She gradually chatted with the olddy about household matters and told her some interesting experiences from filming. She also took the opportunity to mention to the olddy about starting her studio.

 Chapter 231: I鈥檒l take Good Care of You.

    <h4>Chapter 231</h4>


    "It��s good to build a career. I��m not against it. Women shouldn��t give up on themselves just because they get married."


    The old madam nodded approvingly.


    "Rong Dai, granny wants to ask you something."


    Seeing the old madam suddenly be serious, Rong Dai immediately became a little nervous and obediently replied, "Granny, please go ahead."


    Mrs. Huo was silent for a few seconds before asking her, "As an old wife, I shouldn''t really intervene in this kind of thing. After all, it��s a matter between you young couple."


    "Granny just wants to know if you��ve taken any precautions? Have you nned when to have a child?"


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, then immediately understood.


    Although she felt a trace of loss in her heart, with the experience of her previous life, she could of course understand and appreciate the importance this prestigious family ced on having an heir.


    Although she was still young, Huo Shao Ting was no longer that young.


    There was an old saying, ''establish yourself by thirty''.


    Although there was fiercepetition within the Huo Group, it had not yet reached the stage of cutthroat tactics. Everything was still under control.


    She could understand the olddy''s longing to hold a great-grandchild, and she didn''t object herself to raising a child at this age.


    "Granny, we haven''t."


    She shook her head with a light smile. Under normal circumstances, it was mostly the mother-inw who would inquire about this. It was rare for the grandmother to get involved.


    But she could understand the olddy''s feelings. She had been the nation��s First Lady for thirty years and had also absorbed the fresh knowledge of this era.


    She could now handle this kind of topic.


    "And I''m not against having a child now."


    "I''m not saying this to please granny or my mother-inw, nor to tie down Huo Shao Ting, but because I want to have a child myself."


    "I also look forward to bing a mother. With granny and mother''s guidance, I believe I can raise the child well."


    Her words were very sincere, and the look in her eyes at the olddy was also sincere.


    Mrs. Huo didn''t expect her to say this. After all, a girl her age was still naive and immature.


    Moreover, the thinking of young people nowadays was very open-minded, and there were many who chose to be child-free.


    She knew her eldest grandson��s temperament very well. If Rong Dai was unwilling, he would absolutely not force her, even though the Huo family still had Huo Shao Jie and Mei Shu.


    But she didn��t hold out much hope for those two unreliable ones.


    The one she was most concerned about was her eldest grandson, Huo Shao Ting. He had suffered too much and lost too much.


    There wouldn��t be many things that could make him happy in the future.


    Now that Rong Dai had appeared, Lu Zheng and her shared the same view that as long as the young couple could be happy together and have a child or two, they would be satisfied.


    "That''s good, that''s good. You''re a good child. It��s really unfair to you, but granny..."


    Tears welled up in the olddy''s eyes. She was very happy with Rong Dai''s thoughtfulness and understanding.


    "I understand, granny."


    Rong Dai also felt emotional. She instinctively sat next to the olddy and held her soft, wrinkled hands tofort her.


    "Meeting granny and the rest of you is my blessing. Huo Shao Ting and I are very good together, and we''ll get even better. I''ll take good care of him, granny, so don''t worry."


    How fortunate she was to have met this family!


    Mrs. Huo also held her hand, unable to say anything, but made a choking sound in her throat.


    Rong Dai gently patted the olddy on the back. She knew a lot from her young aunt. She knew the Huo family''s difficulties and Huo Shao Ting''s hardship.


    If she didn''t have the memories of her previous life, she probably wouldn''t have been able to empathize with the olddy''s state of mind.


    When she left the olddy��s room, Rong Dai heaved a long sigh.


    "The old madam can really talk now."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice came.


    Rong Dai looked back and saw Huo Shao Ting leaning against the wall right outside the olddy''s room. She didn''t know how long he had been standing there.


    She knew he was worried about her.


    A soft feeling rose in her heart. She smiled and walked over to him, recalling the olddy''s words. She took his hand in hers.


    "Huo Shao Ting, I promised granny I would take good care of you."


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing hitched slightly, then rxed. His deep eyes were filled with a pampering look as he reached out and rubbed her head, "I know."


    ...


    It was the eve of the Lunar New Year.


    The Huo family was busy early in the morning. Uncle Li and Huo Shao Jie were busy pasting Spring Festival couplets and hangingnterns while the kitchen was the women��s domain.


    The ingredients had been prepared very early. The old madam was in an exceptionally good mood today and also wanted to show off her cooking skills.


    Mother-inw and young auntie also cooked a dish each, with Rong Dai and her husband taking the lead.


    When night fell, the table was full of food and the aroma was very tempting.


    Although Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li were servants who normally couldn��t sit at the table, since it was New Year��s Eve and the Huo family was small, they were also seated at the table.


    The warm festive atmosphere gave Rong Dai a different experience and feeling. This was how a family should be!


    Even when she was still in her boudoir in her previous life, she had enjoyed such times.


    However, she had spent the second half of her life in the imperial harem, so those tastes had faded.


    But today, the Huo family once again gave her that feeling.


    Raising her wine ss, she was in an exceptionally good mood amidst the sound of firecrackers outside.


    "Wife, happy New Year."


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her by the waist. His usually cold, stern face wore an increasingly gentle smile as he clinked sses lightly with her.


    Rong Dai looked at him in surprise, then smiled knowingly and softly said, "Husband, happy New Year."


    This New Year��s Eve dinner was especially joyful for the Huo family.


    Huo Shao Ting had already dealt with thepany��s matters in advance. After dinner, mother-inw and Mrs. Wang brought up fruits while Rong Dai made tea to aid digestion.


    The huge LCD TV in the living room was showing a New Year''s G. The festive atmosphere was strong.


    "Stop fussing,e sit for a while."


    Huo Shao Ting reached out to pull her to sit next to him on the sofa. Rong Dai obediently sat beside him without argument and let him hug her, nuzzling her hair one moment and pecking her cheeks lightly the next.


    If it were normal times, young auntie would surely make acidicments.


    But young auntie was exceptionally quiet today. Young uncle had been busy recently, so he had gone upstairs early to rest and be able to stay upte. Everyone else was seriously watching the G.


    Seeing Mei Shu curled up on the sofa, smiling foolishly at her phone, Rong Dai elbowed Huo Shao Ting lightly.


    "Looks like you''ll have to prepare a dowry."


    Huo Shao Ting nced indifferently at Mei Shu and said lightly, "As long as she can get married off and note bother you, I don''t mind giving her half the family assets."


    "So generous?"


    Rong Dai raised her eyebrows teasingly.


    "Have faith in your husband''s money-making abilities, hmm?" Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead and whispered back.


    Rong Dai just smiled silently and leaned against him to watch the G attentively.

 Chapter 232: New Year Pressure Package

    <h4>Chapter 232</h4>


    "Ahh! Sister-inw!"


    Just as the young couple were hugging each other and enjoying the Spring Festival G, Huo Mei Shu suddenly jumped up from the sofa very excitedly and threw herself at Rong Dai, holding up her phone to show her.


    "Sister-inw, Gu Chengyan sent me a red envelope! And he wished me Happy New Year!"


    "I''m going to be so happy I faint!"


    Huo Mei Shu hugged her phone to her chest and kicked her legs around excitedly.


    "Sister-inw, do you think Gu Chengyan...might actually like me a bit too? He only sent it to me! I''m going to show it off on WeChat! Just to annoy Ye Liyun!"


    Rong Dai saw how the little sister-inw''s eyes were twinkling with stars, she had met Gu Chengyan before, and didn''t have a particrly good impression.


    But if he was good to little sister-inw, as long as she was happy, it was a case of when ites to feelings between a man and a woman, she would of course give them her blessing.


    "Find a chance to bravely ask him and you''ll know."


    She smiled and replied to little sister-inw. Her phone that was sitting on the table suddenly vibrated.


    She looked at it in confusion, who would send her a message at this time?


    When she opened it to look, it turned out to be multiple transfers from Huo Shaoting, and each transfer had a different message, all written very carefully.


    Rong Dai, Happy New Year.


    Rong Dai, I love you, indefinitely.


    Rong Dai, for the rest of my life, it''s all you.


    Rong Dai, loving you is what I want to do for the rest of my life.


    Rong Dai, missing you is what I do every moment.


    Rong Dai, you are my once in a lifetime thrill.


    Rong Dai, I will use my whole life to prove my love for you.


    Rong Dai, protecting you is my mission.


    Rong Dai, I will only hold your hand this lifetime.


    Rong Dai, I will only grow old with you this lifetime.


    For the rest of my life, take good care of yourself, Mrs. Huo.


    3 transfers of 52,000, 8 transfers of 5,200, nearly 200,000 yuan in transfers, a full 11 carefullyposed love phrases.


    Rong Dai''s heart instantly felt like it had fallen into a furnace, soft and scalding, her fingertips holding the phone couldn''t help but tighten.


    She didn''t care about the amount, but his feelings.


    "Showing off on WeChat, I will earn and give you anything others have."


    Huo Shaoting''s voice was gentle, his gaze looking at her remained gentle and doting.


    "Big brother! You''re deliberately attacking me!"


    When Huo Mei Shu saw her brother''s actions, she immediately stamped her feet.


    Huo Shaoting nced at her: "If you have the ability, send him a screenshot and see if he dares to transfer you that much? Getting excited over a few lipsticks'' worth, what are you so happy about?"


    Rong Dai knew his sharp tongue, afraid he would hurt little sister-inw''s feelings, secretly poked him a couple times.


    But the words were already said.


    Themotion from these three sessfully caught old Madam''s and mother-inw''s attention, and they just happened to overhear what Huo Shaoting said.


    Old Madam immediately and seriously admonished Huo Mei Shu: "Mei Shu, although our family is not short on money, we don''t use money to measure a person."


    "But if you are tempted and fooled by little tricks, that is too shallow. You have to be careful yourself."


    "Grandma, how could you listen to my brother''s words as the truth? That''s not what happened at all."


    Huo Mei Shu immediately argued coquettishly.


    "Then go on, send it. I can save on red envelopes this year."


    Huo ShaoJie had juste downstairs and happened to catch this scene, and chimed in.


    Rong Dai knew the one thing you couldn''t provoke little sister-inw about, and was about to remind her when it was already toote. Little sister-inw had already taken her phone.


    "Sending it I will! Who''s afraid of who! Hmph!"


    Huo Mei Shu said a bit angrily, also feeling a little expectant in her heart.


    She wasn''t expecting Gu Chengyan to give her a huge red envelope, but she wanted to know his reaction, if he had her in his heart?


    Why else would he specifically send her a red envelope for New Year?


    She took a screenshot of Rong Dai''s phone, and incidentally took a shot of the couple''s backs, and wrote: Heartless rich guy, still souring others on New Year''s!


    Then she hit send, and gave the phone back to Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai took the phone, helpless and a little exasperated as she looked at little sister-inw, also not knowing what to say to her, and could only re at Huo Shaoting next to her.


    Huo Shaoting''s face was impassive. Although he didn''t use money to measure a person''s abilities, it also wasn''t the Huo family''s criteria in looking for a son-inw.


    But wanting to use a few small red envelopes to trick his little sister away, no matter who it was, he would not agree.


    Especially that music nerd.


    After Huo Mei Shu posted on WeChat, quite a few people liked it, and couldn''t help but make sourments underneath.


    But Gu Chengyan''sment never appeared. She was anxious, and could onlyfort herself that he must be busy and didn''t have time to check her WeChat.


    "Grandma, this is your red envelope, Happy New Year."


    "Mom, this is yours."


    After seeding in his scheme, Huo ShaoJie was in a great mood. He took out red envelopes from behind him and handed them to old Madam and mother-inw separately.


    "Sister-inw, this is for you, Happy New Year!"


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai knew this was just a New Year''s formality, so she epted it, feeling warm inside.


    "Big brother, this is yours. I''ll say first, I''m very poor this year."


    Huo ShaoJie also gave one to Huo Shaoting, while exining, immediately drawingughter from old Madam and mother-inw.


    "Here''s yours, learn to grow up, just a few lipsticks'' money and you''re bought off."


    When it was Huo Mei Shu''s turn, Huo ShaoJie mocked her a sentence, but his gaze was still very doting.


    "Hmph!" Huo Mei Shu turned her head away, and impatiently peeked inside the red envelope right away.


    "Mrs. Wang, Uncle Li, Happy New Year to you too."


    Huo ShaoJie also gave red envelopes to Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li before sitting on the sofa drinking tea, eating pastries, fruit and nuts.


    Rong Dai smiled as she looked at this family, feeling extremely warm inside.


    Little uncle''s red envelope amount wasn''trge, after all there was only so much you could fit inside, and everyone was just enjoying the festive cheer and auspicious meaning of New Year.


    "Mrs. Wang, go upstairs and bring down the things I prepared."


    Old Madam Huo said. Mrs. Wang smiled and went upstairs to carry down several boxes.


    "Rong Rong, youe over first."


    Mrs. Wang ced the boxes on the coffee table. Old Madam took a sandalwood colored box in her hands and gestured for her toe over.


    "You''re the new daughter-inw, this is your first New Year in our Huo family. Grandma will give you the first new year gift."


    Rong Dai looked at Huo Shaoting and after getting confirmation from his gaze, she got up and walked over. Mrs. Wang immediately brought over a wooden stool behind her.


    Rong Dai sat down, feeling a little nervous.


    Although this wasn''t like ancient times, without so much etiquette and ritual, she was still nervous.


    Old Madam opened the box, inside was a ne.


    The ne had a ruby, that water drop shaped ruby was as big as a pigeon egg, bright and vivid, surrounded by a dozen diamonds as thick as a little finger.


    With one look you could tell this ne had history and stories behind it.


    When old Madam took out this ne, not only Lu Zheng but even Huo Shaoting was a bit surprised.

 Chapter 233: The Old Lady鈥檚 Dowry

    <h4>Chapter 233</h4>


    Rong Dai was adept at observing people''s expressions and immediately noticed that this ne was extraordinary. Moreover, her judgment was sharp, and this ne, from the materials to the workmanship, was very sophisticated.


    This ne looked like it had at least a hundred years of history. Nowadays, jewelry like this with such pedigree and exquisite craftsmanship was bing increasingly rare.


    This kind of jewelry had great collectible value. Unless it was an important asion, it would not be casually taken out for others to see.


    "Grandma, this is too valuable. I can''t ept it."


    She hurriedly declined.


    In her previous life, she had seen countless treasures, but no matter how many she had seen, women were inherently fond of jewelry.


    She really liked this ne, but she had not forgotten how Huo Old Madam had cared so much about the jewelry set she had worn when she first arrived.


    Although sheter understood the reason, she could rte.


    However, such a valuable item was a bit too much for her to ept.


    If her current status was that of a super richdy, then it would be understandable for her to ept such avish gift.


    But the disparity between her status and the Huo family was too great. Receiving such a precious gift made her feel apprehensive.


    Although the Huo family treated her well, she knew to be grateful.


    But she was always very clear about her own status. She was the daughter-inw of the Huo family and an outsider.


    Even though Huo Shao Ting treated her extremely well, she had to maintain a sense of propriety.


    The lessons from her previous life were too profound. She had suffered losses once before, and she was unwilling to repeat the same mistakes.


    Even between husband and wife, they should each have their own principles and bottom lines in their hearts.


    Indiscriminate taking or giving, neither extreme was likely to lead to good results in the end.


    "Yes, mother."


    Sure enough, as Rong Dai had expected, as soon as she finished speaking, her mother-inw spoke up.


    Mother-inw was good to her solely because of Huo Shao Ting.


    Not because she was her daughter-inw.


    With the experience from her previous life, she naturally understood mother-inw Lu Zheng''s approach.


    Rong Dai was not upset or ufortable in her heart. Instead, Huo Shao Ting''s eyebrows were knitted together.


    "Mom, let grandma finish speaking."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke, his voice very calm, but with a hint of chilliness.


    Lu Zheng''s face turned slightly pale and looked rather ugly.


    Rong Dai''s heart skipped a beat. She knew Huo Shao Ting was a man of delicate feelings, and his mother''s actions must have upset him.


    Huo Old Madam also took a deep look at Lu Zheng before shifting her gaze to Rong Dai.


    The olddy took out the ne with a kindly look on her face, "Little Rong''er, turn around."


    Rong Dai was apprehensive but nced at Huo Shao Ting when he nodded slightly. Only then did she turn around.


    Old Madam put the ne around her neck. Rong Dai knew that her mother-inw was unhappy, and she couldn''t help but break into a cold sweat.


    Mother-inw had an obsessive love for jewelry. This exquisite ne, even if Old Madam had given it to her, she wouldn''t be able to keep it.


    But this ne seemed rather special. If she simply passed it on to her mother-inw, Old Madam might be upset.


    The two women were both prestigious figures in the Huo family, and she couldn''t afford to offend either one.


    Moreover, it was New Year''s now. If a ne soured the mood, no one would feel happy.


    Rong Dai considered countermeasures in her mind and couldn''t help but lightly sigh. Every family had its own scriptures that were hard to recite.


    "Hmm, our Rong Rong looks elegant and can look beautiful in anything!"


    Old Madam looked satisfied at the ne on her neck, but Rong Dai felt like there was a thousand catties weighing down her neck.


    Mother-inw didn''t say anything, but her gaze hadn''t left her for a moment.


    "You must take good care of this ne and cannot pass it on to anyone. This is my dowry."


    Old Madam exhorted her meaningfully, with a fleeting nce at Lu Zheng.


    For this daughter-inw Lu Zheng, she had been tolerant enough already.


    Lu Zheng was not ambitious and only knew how to be a good wife and mother. After all, the Lu family circumstances were affluent, and she had the temperament of a young miss.


    The daughter-inw did not mind other matters, only insisting on monopolizing these jewelry pieces in the family.


    Over the years, the umted Huo family wealth included many precious collectibles.


    She had given Lu Zheng no small number of them over the years, but this woman''s greed was bottomless.


    "Grandma, this is too valuable, I cannot ept it!"


    Hearing this, Rong Dai was shocked. This was the Old Madam''s dowry, with special significance and extreme preciousness.


    No wonder her mother-inw was unhappy.


    "This ne was what my husband spent all his savings on when we got engaged. It was worn by my grandmother."


    "Later when the Lu family ran into some trouble, my grandmother pawned it off. Not until my engagement did my husband somehow manage to find it again."


    "At that time, the Huo family was still far from what it is today, but my husband was willing to give everything just to fulfill my wish."


    Old Madam looked at her and gently told her the origins of the ne.


    From Old Madam''s expression, Rong Dai could see that the old couple''s marital rtionship was very good.


    "Grandma hopes that you and Shao Ting will not forget your initial aspirations and remainmitted to the end."


    Old Madam exhorted earnestly.


    Rong Dai nodded. With Old Madam speaking to this point, did she still have the chance to refuse?


    "Thank you, Grandma."


    She obediently expressed her gratitude and returned to Huo Shao Ting''s side wearing the ne, casting an uneasy look at her unhappy mother-inw.


    Lu Zheng''s face was indeed unpleasant.


    These pieces from Old Madam should be inherited by her as the daughter-inw, and then passed on to her daughter-inw in the future.


    But Old Madam had kept them for so many years and was still unwilling to give them to her.


    This left her feeling aggrieved, like she was not epted.


    "It''s okay, don''t worry about it."


    Sensing her mood, Huo Shao Ting reached out and grasped her hand, gently urging her not to mind it.


    But how could Rong Dai not care?


    What she possessed now was obtained by trading her life.


    Her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting was one thing; maintaining good rtions with the rest of the Huo family was another matter entirely.


    If this bnce was disrupted, it would only make things difficult for Huo Shao Ting.


    She did not want him to be put in a difficult position.


    "While you are all here today on New Year''s Eve, I have some things I want to say as well."


    After giving Rong Dai the ne, Huo Old Madam''s gaze swept over each of them. Her usually kindly face was uncharacteristically solemn.


    Hearing this, Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li tactfully left the living room.


    "Mom, it''s New Year''s, why can''t we talk about it after the holidays?"


    Lu Zheng asked, her face slightly pale.


    Having been the Huo family daughter-inw for so many years, she was quite clear on Old Madam''s temperament.


    Old Madam nced at her. "I''m afraid there won''t be another chance. Old Madam Qiao was still hale and hearty six months ago. Now she relies on a respirator in bed and can barely speak."


    "Grandma, you will definitely live to a hundred years old this New Year."


    Sensing the odd atmosphere, Huo Mei Shu hurriedly spoke up.

 Chapter 234: 25% of the Will

    <h4>Chapter 234</h4>


    "Now it''s a new era, don''t say those words to make me happy anymore."


    The olddy was exceptionally solemn, and Huo Mei Shu could not help but restrain the smile on her face, feeling a little embarrassed looking at the family.


    Rong Dai''s heart was also puzzled, holding Huo Shao Ting''s hand was a little sweaty.


    She finally eased the rtionship, she didn''t want to ruin it like this.


    She didn''t expect her mother-inw to treat her as intimately as her own daughter. As long as they could get along harmoniously with enough mutual respect, that would be fine.


    But what the olddy did today was very likely to break the mother-inw and daughter-inw rtionship that she had finally eased.


    Huo Shao Ting knew she was sensitive, and what kind of personality his own mother was, he knew very well.


    This was his own wife. In this family, only he could rely on her, of course he had to not recognize his six rtives, and only protect his own wife.


    As for other things, protect your wife first, and postpone other thingster.


    The olddy looked up at Huo Shao Jie: "Shao Jie, take out my will from the safe."


    When they heard the word "will", the faces of the people in the living room changed.


    Huo Shao Jie hesitated for a moment, then got up and took the olddy''s will from the safe upstairs.


    The paper of the will was very new, still exuding the smell of ink.


    The TV in the living room was still broadcasting the g, but the atmosphere was no longer as harmonious as before, but rather a little tense.


    "Granny."


    Huo Shao Jie handed the olddy the will.


    The olddy put on her reading sses and looked at the will carefully before putting it on the coffee table.


    "Originally, I was going to talk about this after the New Year. But today I gave Rong Dai a New Year''s gift, and it seems your mother is not very satisfied. Shao Jie and Mei Shu may also be puzzled, so I might as well do it today."


    "Mom, you know I''m not petty, I just..."


    "You''re not petty, but your jealousy is too strong."


    The olddy interrupted Lu Zheng before she could finish defending herself, her voice very sharp in rebuttal.


    Seeing her mother-inw''s face getting worse, Rong Dai couldn''t help but cry out inwardly.


    These words were already very harsh.


    She sighed lightly in her heart. Her mother-inw was indeed a bit...not smart.


    In her previous life, if a daughter-inw wanted to obtain the power of distribution from her mother-inw, she would have to spend a lot of effort not only to please her mother-inw, but also to get recognition for her housekeeping skills.


    Her mother-inw''s overt preupation with property like this was really not clever.


    But she couldn''t say anything, she could only listen.


    She could only sigh lightly in her heart, no wonder when things went wrong in the Huo family at first, only the olddy could take charge.


    Her mother-inw Lu Zheng had this kind of temperament, she was like a greenhouse flower, unable to withstand any storms.


    "Now Shao Ting is also married, thepany has also stabilized, and there are still some minor issues that Shao Ting can resolve."


    Old Lady Huo continued,pletely ignoring Lu Zheng''s pale face.


    "You knew very well that set of jade jewelry was given by me to Rong Dai, yet you forced her to give it to you. Everyone likes fine jewels, but too much greed makes people disgusted."


    "But ask yourself, haven''t you received enough jewelry from me over the years?"


    The olddy asked her, and Lu Zheng''s face did not look good.


    "Mom, this...which family isn''t like this? When it''s my turn, I will give the same to Rong Dai and Mei Shu. Why can''t I take it?"


    Lu Zheng asked with a flushed face.


    There were many rules in these wealthy families that she was not unaware of.


    It was precisely because she knew that she cared so much.


    Old Lady Huo looked at her meaningfully: "I won''t stop you from distributing your things however you want."


    "But these are mine. Over the years since you married into the Huo family, and Serene passed away early, you raised the children alone for so many years."


    "I appreciated your hard work and never said anything to you."


    "Rong Dai is the one I personally selected for Shao Ting. Although a lot happened, she is the one to walk with Shao Ting in the future, not you as his mother."


    The olddy''s words were very sharp, and even Rong Dai was startled.


    These words were already very harsh.


    She couldn''t help but sigh lightly in her heart. Her mother-inw was indeed a bit...not smart.


    In her previous life, if a daughter-inw wanted to obtain the power of distribution from her mother-inw, she would have to spend a lot of effort not only to please her mother-inw, but also to get recognition for her housekeeping skills.


    Her mother-inw''s overt preupation with property like this was really not clever.


    But she couldn''t say anything, she could only listen.


    She could only sigh lightly in her heart, no wonder when things went wrong in the Huo family at first, only the olddy could take charge.


    Her mother-inw Lu Zheng had this kind of temperament, she was like a greenhouse flower, unable to withstand any storms.


    "I know how these things should be distributed and who should get them."


    Old Lady Huo''s words were very stern. Even Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu did not expect the olddy to speak so harshly.


    Among the family members, only Huo Shao Ting was the calmest.


    After all, he was trained by the olddy herself, and knew her personality best.


    "I''ve given you a lot over the years. As for who you want to give things toter, I won''t ask you a word. Once I''ve given it to you, it''s yours."


    Old Lady Huo looked at her daughter-inw, feeling more helpless than anything.


    The Lu family had really spoiled her too much, her sights and perspectives were not broad enough.


    Lu Zheng''s eyes were very red, and she was almost crying.


    Rong Dai wore this ne, and felt her neck getting hotter and hotter, as if it was burning.


    "The distribution of my jewelry has been decided. These are your portions, take a good look yourselves, if you have any questions you can ask me now."


    The olddy had been through storms, and could be very intimidating when asserting her authority.


    She gestured for them to take the will.


    "Lu Zheng, you''ve kept the Huo family for so many years. If not for your contributions, at least for your hard work. So I''ve given you 40%."


    "Your three children get 10% each, I keep 5% for myself, and the remaining 25% is for Rong Dai."


    The olddy said.


    Before others could react, Rong Dai was surprised herself.


    Although she didn''t know how much property the olddy had, this 25% almost reached the total of her uncle, aunt and the three Huo siblings.


    "Granny..."


    Rong Dai wanted to stop her, but the olddy interrupted her words.


    Her heart thumped erratically, very uneasy.


    Lu Zheng''s eyes widened in shock. Although her share wasrge, the olddy giving Rong Dai so much, even more than her own children, she couldn''t understand it.


    On the other hand, Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu were only a little surprised at first, and didn''t have much emotional reaction.

 Chapter 235: This House Needs a Mistress.

    <h4>Chapter 235</h4>


    "Shaojie and Meishu, you are the children of the Huo family. Each of you has a 5% equity stake in thepany. You know how much you receive annually from thepany."


    "Compared to the 25% I''m giving Rong Rong, this is nothing."


    The Old Madam spoke with a strong tone and a very dignified manner.


    "As for Lu Zheng, when Jingzhi passed away, he left you a sum of wealth. Although thepany did not allocate equity to you, you are aware of the fixed annual dividends you receive from thepany."


    "This 40% is not muchpared to your dividends, but it''s not something an ordinary family can afford."


    "Why am I giving Rong Rong such arge share? It''s because of your older brother. You all have been able to live a stable life these years, and I don''t need to say how hard Shaoting has worked."


    The Old Madam''s gaze mostly fell on Lu Zheng.


    She did this out of helplessness. This family needed a capable mistress in the future.


    Neither Lu Zheng nor Huo Meishu possessed the qualities required for this role, but Rong Rong is an exceptional child.


    For the stability of the Huo family, there needs to be a pir at the helm of thisrge household.


    She is doing this for the sake of the Huo family.


    Although the Huo family currently enjoys a respectable status and position in Shengjing, Lu Zhengcks the necessary means to handle certain matters. After all, women hold influence wherever they are.


    Lu Zheng may not possess the art of charming everyone, but Rong Rong does.


    The Huo family can only feel at ease when entrusted to Shaoting and his wife. Only then can they peacefully live out their old age a centuryter.


    She still has time now and can handle this situation. She has time to teach and groom Rong Rong.


    Shaojie, being a director, has a quick mind. As soon as the Old Madam spoke, he knew what the olddy was thinking.


    He breathed a sigh of relief in his heart and exchanged a helpless look with Huo Shaoting.


    The burden on the shoulders of the eldest brother and sister-inw is heavy.


    Rong Dai is not foolish either. Although the Old Madam''s words were not explicit, she already understood what was implied.


    The Old Madam wants her to take over the position of the Huo family''s mistress.


    That means bing the head of the household, in charge of managing the family''s affairs. It''s not an easy task.


    Rong Dai is well aware that the prosperity of a family is closely rted to the role of the mistress.


    Sometimes, the women in the inner courtyard are more well-informed, and unexpected information can be obtained.


    Although in modern times, she doesn''t need to inquire about official matters like in her past life, in any era, resources and connections need to be umted and maintained.


    Her mother-inw is not suited for socializing, so the Old Madam is intentionally grooming her.


    From this perspective, she feels no guilt in holding this 25% share.


    However, this means that in the future, she will have to juggle her career and manage the interpersonal rtionships of the Huo family. It will be busy indeed.


    "You''ll have to work hard, my dear wife."


    Huo Shaoting was perceptive. When the Old Madam gave the ne, he already guessed her intentions.


    He held Rong Dai''s hand, leaned over, and gently kissed her hair. His voice was low, tinged with a hint of apology.


    "But you don''t need to feel too pressured. Just attend gatherings, have meals, and listen to their idle talk. If you don''t like it, just show your face."


    He was in charge of the Huo Family''s enterprise and naturally understood the importance of maintaining connections.


    Women nowadays could hold up half the sky. Although the Old Madam seemed to be willing to relinquish some power in maintaining the Huo Family''s connections, it was clear to him that she, being his own birth mother, had limited capabilities.


    Rong Dai found it somewhat amusing and perplexing. While it was true that things were as he described, in this era, which family would becking in opportunities? Maintaining connections was not as simple as sharing a meal.


    In her past life, she had been the Empress for thirty years, from the Prince''s residence to the Imperial Pce, from being the head of the household to the mother of the nation. She knew all too well how challenging it was to maintain connections. Mishandling it would invite hatred and trouble for oneself.


    Among the wealthy and noble families, gatherings were never in short supply. These gatherings were not just about enjoying good food and conversation; they were primarily for gathering information and safeguarding each other''s interests.


    But doing this well was not easy. There are no permanent friends; interests reign supreme. The umtion of connections was, in fact, a covert umtion of resources.


    She didn''t respond to Huo Shaoting''s words. After all, his mother-inw was sitting right there. If she agreed, it would be a p in the face to the mother-inw.


    The Old Madam''s actions today were undoubtedly disrespectful to the mother-inw.


    "You don''t have any abilities yourself, so I won''t say much. Neither you nor Meishu are skilled at socializing, and I have indeed tried to cultivate you," the Old Madam said.


    "Now that I''m old, the young daughters-inw in the wealthy families are like leeks, one batch after another. In many situations, people give face, and that''s all."


    "Maintaining connections is necessary. When you were a girl in the Lu family, you should have known that. Take the Lunar New Year this year, for example. I estimate that just the New Year''s gifts from those who visited the Lu family would be enough to sustain them from the beginning to the end of the year."


    The Old Madam exined with great emphasis.


    Lu Zheng''s face turned from pale to red, and she was well aware of this.


    "You can see for yourself. Last year, I didn''t attend many asions. So, this year, how many people do you think wille to give New Year''s gifts to the Huo Family?" the Old Madam asked her.


    Rong Dai saw the mother-inw bowing her head, her mouth tightly pursed, not saying a word.


    "These matters were originally the responsibility of us women, but now there''s only me, you, Meishu, and Rong Rong in this family."


    "I''m old, and you don''t have the same social connections as others. You can''t handle some of the social aspects. Meishu is your daughter, and you know her personality yourself."


    "This family needs a mistress."


    The Old Madam spoke out, at an age when she should be enjoying her twilight years, but her kind face still held deep concern.


    "This 25% is the hard-earned fee I''m giving to Rong Rong."


    The Old Madam looked at Rong Dai, her gaze earnest, tinged with some guilt.


    She hadn''t told this child in advance, but today, in front of her mother-inw, she brought up the topic.


    This was, in fact, a forced move,pelling the child to ept.


    But she had no other choice.


    Looking at the Qiao Family''s situation now, she felt a sense of lingering fear.


    Although the Qiao Family had a background, they were only wealthy for three generations and poor for five. On the surface, the Qiao Family still appeared prosperous, but she had experienced storms and waves and could see through it all very clearly.


    The Qiao Family was already on a decline.


    Although it''s said that a thin camel is still bigger than a horse, once you fall from this level, it''s difficult to climb back up.


    As the saying goes, it''s easy to transition from frugality to luxury, but difficult to transition from luxury to frugality.


    Old Madam Qiao''s illness came suddenly this time, and she was afraid that one day she might suddenly copse without even having the chance to exin her final wishes.


    "If that''s the case, and you still insist on this 25% share, then I, as an old woman, have nothing more to say. You can handle it yourselves."


    As Old Madam spoke, she even started to exhibit a childlike temper.

 Chapter 236: The Power of the Butler

    <h4>Chapter 236</h4>


    After the olddy finished speaking, the living room was quiet except for the sound of the g.


    "Granny, can I... also give my share to sister-inw?"


    After a few seconds, Huo Mei Shu looked at Lu Zheng a little guiltily. Her gaze quickly shifted to Huo Old Madam. She asked a little timidly.


    "I gave it to you, and how you allocate it is your freedom. Granny won''t interfere," the olddy said with a kindly, amiable smile on her face again.


    Rong Dai was sweating a little, but she had already thought of a strategy in her heart about how to coax the mother-inw well.


    The olddy handed over the authority of the housekeeper to her, which was her trust in her, and her approval of her.


    She also wanted to be able to be Huo Shao Ting''s virtuous wife.


    "Shao Jie, get up early tomorrow. I want to go back to my maternal home for a while."


    Lu Zheng''s face was very gloomy. Seeing that even her own daughter didn''t support her, she stood up abruptly.


    With a gloomy face, she instructed Huo Shao Jie after throwing the pillow on the sofa and went upstairs.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect her mother-inw to react so strongly. This was probably not going to be possible to coax her mother-inw in a short period of time.


    But she was really innocent.


    She didn''t expect the olddy to announce this suddenly either.


    "Mom..."


    Huo Mei Shu wanted to call her back. She was both angry and anxious in her heart.


    Although Granny was a little rushed tonight, she was her own mother. She was very clear about what kind of temperament she had.


    And she was also very clear about her own ability.


    Besides, she was going to get married in the future and would not be able to manage the household.


    Granny was old, and her own mother didn''t have the sophisticated social skills either.


    Her second brother was not married yet. Her eldest brother was already working very hard with thepany''s affairs alone.


    Now only sister-inw could take on this responsibility.


    She really didn''t understand what her mother was making a fuss about.


    Did she want her to deal with those nobledies'' gatherings and only be able to cry when she was ridiculed?


    "Granny, sister-inw, don''t take it to heart. I''ll go upstairs to persuade her."


    Seeing the atmosphere was wrong, Huo Mei Shu didn''t want to think about her idol anymore. She immediately threw down the pillow and got up to go upstairs.


    "Forget it, let her go."


    The olddy raised her hand to signal her to sit down and took a sip of the hot tea: "After so many years, don''t I know what kind of temperament she has?"


    "Shao Jie, take her back tomorrow. Remember to bring the New Year''s gift for the Lu family. I have asked Aunt Wang to prepare it. You can ask Aunt Wang tomorrow."


    Huo Shao Jie nodded. He was naturally very clear about the temperament of his old mother, and he was also very helpless.


    "Sister-inw will have a hard time from now on, having to socialize politely with those people... It''s much more tiring than acting."


    His eyes fell on Rong Dai as he spoke tly, with a hint of admiration in his eyes as he looked at her.


    In these months of shooting at the film and television city, he had truly witnessed his sister-inw''s ability.


    She was naturally gifted in dealing with any problem perfectly.


    He had directed many dramas, but none of the crews had ever been as harmonious as the Empress crew.


    Although Qiao Wan Zhou and Zhou Jing were also factors, his sister-inw''s attitude and wrist made him convinced.


    His own mother didn''t have that ability. This family still needed ady of the house.


    His big brother managed thepany, his sister-inw managed the household, it was perfect!


    "Cut the ttery. Give something practical. Don''t think I don''t know what you''re up to. My wife does all the hard work, what does your wife do?"


    Huo Shao Ting picked up the conversation, and his meaning couldn''t be more obvious.


    Huo Shao Jie shrugged. Although his handsome face still showed some fatigue, his smile was still very charming.


    "I know."


    Rong Dai felt very speechless and helpless at Huo Shao Ting''s way of asking for benefits right to her face.


    But it was also because the two brothers had a good rtionship that they could speak so directly. Otherwise, this would have led to a fight in other families.


    "Granny, I''ll also give my share to sister-inw. I can earn enough in the future to support my wife and children. If I have nothing to eat, I''ll go to sister-inw''s house for food!"


    Huo Shao Jie leaned backzily on the sofa, calcting loudly.


    Rong Dai was a little amused.


    This whole family really... left her not knowing what to say.


    But she was also grateful for their trust and approval.


    "Then that''s your business. Anyway, I''ve given it to you."


    Although Lu Zheng had slighted her, the olddy was still in a very good mood.


    "Sister-inw, you''ll have a hard time from now on. If there''s anything I can help with, just ask. I''d go through fire and water to help!"


    The little sister-inw also chimed in.


    Rong Dai smiled wryly. Although she was happy that they were so candid, it also meant that she had to do these things well, which would take some effort.


    "With Granny''s gift, it''s enough. Shao Jie, after you get married, you''ll still need some things to make your wife happy."


    "And Mei Shu, you''ll also get married in the future. It''s always good to have some private money."


    "Besides, isn''t Shao Ting still here? I''m about to start my own brand soon, and this is enough."


    She said with a faint, gentle smile on her face.


    She knew her own ability, so she dared to take on this responsibility.


    "It''s just that Mom may not be too happy. No need to go through fire and water, please help me coax Mom more."


    "Granny, I''m very grateful for your trust and approval of me. I will learn earnestly and help Shao Ting manage this family well."


    Her eyes fell on the olddy. Her words were very tactful, but very clear.


    She agreed to take on this responsibility not to gain anything, but solely because of Huo Shao Ting.


    The olddy and Huo Shao Jie were smart people who understood her implication immediately upon hearing this sentence.


    Huo Mei Shu''s reaction time was a little slower. She only thought her words were humble.


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand, feeling distressed and tender in his heart.


    He understood her thoughts.


    "That''s good. The only thing I need to exin is this. While I can still move these old bones of mine, I won''t go anywhere this year. I''ll just take you to see."


    The olddy nodded in satisfaction with a benevolent smile.


    Rong Dai nced at the time. It was already 11 pm.


    "I''ll make some snacks. After eating so much meat just now, eating something to clear the grease while staying up for New Year''s Eve is good."


    Huo Shao Ting felt distressed for her and followed her to the kitchen.


    Once in the kitchen, Rong Dai didn''t immediately start preparing the snacks. Instead, she leaned her head against Huo Shao Ting''s chest and said in a slightly muffled voice: "Shao Ting, what if I don''t do well?"


    Although she dared to take on this responsibility, the ancient times and the modern era were different after all. She was not confident that she could really do a good job.


    Also, her mother-inw was a problem.

 Chapter 237: Don鈥檛 want anyone to give her a hard time.

    <h4>Chapter 237</h4>


    Rong Dai was anxious in her heart. The housekeeper''s power was especially important.


    Although the things this housekeeper had to do now were not asplicated as in her previous life, the big and small things in this family still needed someone to manage them.


    This power should have originally been handed over by Grandma to Mother-inw, and then she would take it over from Mother-inwter.


    But now Grandma handed it over to her directly over Mother-inw''s head, although she was willing to ept it, Mother-inw''s attitude made her feel half cold in her heart.


    Besides, she was not clear about the interpersonal rtionships in the Huo family either, and the ways of dealing with things here were also very different from her previous life.


    Although she was very calm andposed in front of people just now, only she herself knew that she was anxious in her heart.


    Huo Shao Ting knew that she had a keen mind, and Mother Lu Zheng''s attitude must have made her worried.


    But how could he let her be in a dilemma?


    "Don''t worry, I''m here, no one will make things difficult for you."


    What he said was the truth.


    There is a saying that one should look at the Buddha''s face rather than the monk''s face. The Huo family''s status was still there.


    Even if someone deliberately wanted to make things difficult, they would have to weigh their own status.


    Although Rong Dai knew that this was his heartfelt words, themunication between women was not that simple.


    "Don''t think too much about it. I will handle things well on my mother''s side."


    Huo Shao Ting knew the reason for her anxiety, so he gave her a reassurance.


    Rong Dai nodded. The couple made some night snacks and went out together.


    "Or should I take it to Mother myself?"


    Huo Shao Ting stroked her head, smiling indulgently, "You go rest, I''ll take it up."


    Rong Dai thought about it and did not refuse either. She turned around and left the kitchen, and the three of them ate and stayed up together with the olddy.


    Huo Shao Ting took the glutinous rice balls with sweet wine filling upstairs and knocked on Lu Zheng''s door.


    When Lu Zheng opened the door and saw it was him, she didn''t say anything. She turned around and went into the bedroom to sit on the sofa.


    Huo Shao Ting pursed his lips, put down the tray, and stood with his hands in his pockets, looking at her with a t gaze.


    "You will make Rong Dai feel embarrassed like this. This matter was proposed by Grandma. Rong Dai didn''t do anything wrong."


    Lu Zheng''s eyes suddenly turned red. She raised her head in disbelief at the eldest son in front of her.


    "You don''t have to look at me like that. Even if you are my own mother, I won''t give you face either. You should be clear about my personality after so many years."


    "If you feel that you have the ability to take on this important task, of course Grandma and I have nothing to say. But you are very clear yourself about what you can do over the years."


    "To put it another way, it is my wife who is undertaking this for you. I don''t object if you want to go back to your maternal home, and you can stay there for as long as you want."


    Huo Shao Ting said coldly.


    He was brought up by Old Lady Huo with her own hands. Even if he had enjoyed the warmth of affection, it was from Old Lady Huo.


    The mother in front of him was just the one who gave birth to him, as far as Huo Shao Ting was concerned.


    Sometimes Huo Shao Ting even felt that he might be really indifferent by nature. He had tried to change it before.


    But he couldn''t do it.


    Now Rong Dai was the person he treasured the most, unmatched by anyone else in the Huo family.


    Now she only had him. If he didn''t protect her, who else could protect her?


    He had a meticulous mind. What Grandma did was actually more to put shackles on Rong Dai.


    The Huo family looked glorious, but some problems were deeply rooted.


    Lu Zheng didn''t have the ability to resolve these issues, but Rong Dai did.


    "If you want to hate, you can hate me. I was the one who brought her into the family. I hope that you can respect her a little more, for the sake of this family, for me, and for my father''s life''s work."


    "I will have someone send over tomorrow the jewellery that my father left behind. If you haven''t prepared a New Year''s gift for Rong Dai, I can give you money. Even if you just give her a red envelope, that''s fine too."


    Huo Shao Ting did not pay attention to Lu Zheng''s expression, and said everything he needed to say.


    Lu Zheng could hardly believe her ears. The son she gave birth to would actually talk to her like this!


    But she knew clearly in her heart that she really didn''t have the ability of a housekeeper.


    At least when it came to resolving things with the Huo family rtives, she didn''t have much of a solution.


    Although the control of Huo Enterprise was now in Huo Shao Ting''s hands, there were other people from the Huo family who started the business together at the beginning.


    Although over the years they only got dividends and didn''t interfere with thepany''s affairs, money was the priority.


    Now that the Huo family had be so big, it was inevitable that some people would be envious, and it would also make some people dissatisfied.


    She couldn''t bnce such a situation. It was only because Old Lady was still around that no storms had arisen for the time being.


    Lu Zheng sighed helplessly, and was a little annoyed.


    She was annoyed that Mother-inw didn''t discuss it with her, but made such an arrangement in front of her children, which was like a sudden blow!


    "I know everything your Grandma said makes sense, but her doing this, where does it put my face? When I go out in the future, what will those old sisters of mine say about me?"


    "Your Grandma didn''t consider my feelings at all. She really thought I only cared about those jewels?"


    "It''s true that I love jewellery, but I''m not that traditional either. "


    "I just feel that this is a ceremony. Even if your Grandma handed it to me for just two or three days before I passed it on to Rong Dai, it would be the same!"


    Lu Zheng said with a sigh, full of grievance in her tone.


    It was said that it was difficult for an honest official to settle family disputes, but this topic did not exist for Huo Shao Ting.


    "The same?"


    He raised his eyebrows and said lightly with a chuckle: "Over the years, the jewellery that Grandma has given you is not a small amount, plus those left by my dad. Without saying they could rival a country''s riches, at least just adding up, there would be 70-80 billion yuan worth. Where did they all go?"


    "It''s not that this person borrowed them to attend a social event and hasn''t returned them, it''s that as soon as someone tters you, you lose your bearings and directly give it away."


    Lu Zheng''s old face turned red under his words, rendered speechless for a moment.


    "Have you taken back even one piece over the years?"


    Lu Zheng: "......"


    She couldn''t utter a single word with her neck stuck out.


    "If you want to live in leisure andfort, just listen to Grandma''s arrangement on this matter. I don''t want anyone in this family to make things difficult for her. It was my good fortune to have married Rong Dai."


    "If this family cannot amodate her, I will take her away. You can mess around however you want."


    Huo Shao Ting had no intention of continuing to analyze with her. He knew the conditions he offered would tempt Lu Zheng.

 Chapter 238: Stay Awake Together

    <h4>Chapter 238</h4>


    When Lu Zheng heard Huo Shao Ting''s harsh words, her heart tightened and she looked at him with a slightly aggrieved expression: "Can''t you let me think about it?"


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t answer her, but just looked at her calmly.


    Lu Zheng could onlypromise. She just wanted to have thest word.


    After marrying into the Huo family for so many years, although her mother-inw treated her well, she knew that she had never gained her mother-inw''s approval.


    This frustrated her quite a bit, so she wanted to assert herself with the authority of the housekeeper.


    But her mother-inw had such high status and directly gave it to her daughter-inw.


    This eldest daughter-inw was the apple of the eldest son''s eye. The olddy knew that she had wronged the eldest son, and at most she would be angry for two or three days. This matter would be over like this.


    It was precisely because she knew she was being controlled like this that Lu Zheng felt a little unwilling.


    "Alright, I know. I''ll have Mrs. Wang take it downter."


    Lu Zheng sighed, picked up her phone and browsed it, ignoring him.


    After getting the answer he wanted, Huo Shao Ting went downstairs.


    Seeing hime down, Rong Dai''s eyes were fixed on him.


    Seeing her so nervous, Huo Shao Ting felt a little ufortable in his heart.


    "I''m tired, so I won''t keep youpany on New Year''s Eve. It''s just a formality anyway, so I''d better go to rest early."


    The olddy knew very well what Huo Shao Ting was going to do. She looked at the time, it was almost midnight, and this New Year''s Eve was almost over.


    After instructing them, she got up and went upstairs to rest.


    After the olddy left, Rong Dai was a little impatient and asked Huo Shao Ting with her eyes.


    "Sister-inw, don''t worry. You''re so smart, you can definitely handle it with ease."


    Of course Huo Shao Jie also knew what Huo Shao Ting had just gone to do. In order to avoid being pushed to get married himself, and to avoid trouble for his future wife, he had to stand on the side of his big brother and sister-inw.


    "Mom just has that personality. She just can''t ept it for a while, she''ll be fine tomorrow, trust me."


    The younger uncle''s exnation didn''t make Rong Dai feel much relief. If her mother-inw cared so much about this matter, it would be much more difficult for her to handle household affairs in the future.


    "Sister-inw, what second brother said is right. Mom is just like that. It will be fine after tonight."


    Huo Mei Shu also chimed in from the side. This was not her ttering, but she also knew very well what her mother was like.


    If this family was really left for her mother to take care of, wouldn''t it get messed up?


    Seeing the two siblings sing in harmony, Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry.


    "Don''t worry, she won''t hold it against you, trust me."


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand and gently reassured her.


    At this moment, Mrs. Wang came downstairs with red envelopes and a box, a kindly smile on her face.


    "These are the red envelopes from Madam for the two young masters, youngdy and madam."


    Mrs. Wang handed out four red envelopes to them, and finally handed the red wood box to Rong Dai.


    "This is also from Madam to Madam. This is Madam''s first New Year since Madam entered the door, so this gift is appropriate."


    Mrs. Wang knew how to speak ording to the situation. She also knew what had just happened, so after giving Rong Dai the box, she watched Rong Dai open the box.


    She sighed and said with some emotion, "Madam ordered the material for these bangles two months ago and had them specially crafted. Madam said Madam has moisturized skin, and this pink jadeite is rare. "


    "She said these bangles would definitely look good on Madam, and these were the only two, so Madam bought both for Madam!"


    Rong Dai could see that the material for these pink bangles was umon, but since her mother-inw was still willing to give her a New Year''s gift, did that mean her attitude had changed?


    "Sister-inw, what did I say? You can rest assured, Mom won''t hold these things against you!"


    Huo Shao Jie also chimed in to help.


    Rong Dai looked at Huo Shao Ting, and after seeing him nod, she finally felt relieved.


    She put away the red envelopes and bangles and joined Huo Shao Ting and his two siblings to keep vigil on New Year''s Eve.


    The younger generation kept vigil on New Year''s Eve in order to bring luck to the elders.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect that the Huo family would also observe this custom. Although she could often see the three siblings, the atmosphere had never been as harmonious as today.


    "Sister-inw, do you y games?"


    Rong Dai had just made tea when the young auntie sat next to her and asked if she yed games.


    "No." Rong Dai shook her head. It had taken her a lot of effort just to learn how to use a cell phone. And she was busy with work, so when did she have time to y games?


    Huo Mei Shu suddenly looked desperate: "My crush didn''t even reply to me. Today is New Year''s Eve, they must all be having reunion dinners. Sister-inw, you don''t y games either. I wanted to find someone to team up with, we''re bored every year keeping vigil on New Year''s Eve, I''m going bald from it."


    Rong Dai could only smile apologetically. Keeping vigil in the pce in her previous life, at least there were musicians and dancers performing, and various popr programs to watch, so it wasn''t so boring.


    But with so few people in the Huo family, and with no interaction with Huo Er Ye''s family, this New Year was bound to feel much colder.


    "I''ll teach you."


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly handed his phone to her, and Huo Mei Shu''s eyes immediately lit up!


    Rong Dai took the phone and looked at the game that was downloading. She nced at the TV program, which was a rerun, and there really wasn''t anything fun to watch.


    "Then I''ll join too." Huo Shao Jie chimed in and took out his phone too.


    "But four people can''t y together. It has to be a duo, or a trio, or five."


    Huo Mei Shu''s excitement had just subsided, and she was stumped on the spot.


    "Xu Jiang, or your crush can also join."


    Huo Shao Jie teased her, angering Huo Mei Shu to the point of kicking a cushion flying over to hit him on the head.


    Rong Dai concentrated on learning from Huo Shao Ting.


    "I didn''t expect you to have time to y games." She pouted slightly, ncing at Huo Shao Ting coquettishly with a hint of pretend anger.


    "I used to y when I couldn''t sleep, but now that I have you, I haven''t yed at all."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly and exined to her, unable to resist monopolizing her in the corner of the sofa.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks immediately flushed red, and she didn''t respond.


    After the game was downloaded and installed, Huo Shao Ting gave her his main ount and he used a smurf ount.


    On Huo Mei Shu''s side, she brought in Jiang Xu to make a 5-man team.


    Because Rong Dai was a novice, they werepletely defeated in the first match due to poor coordination.


    "Maybe...you guys just y."


    Rong Dai saw that she had lost stars and felt a little embarrassed, but deep down she also felt a hint of unwillingness.


    She had never conceded defeat halfway through anything she wanted to do before.


    "It''s okay sister-inw, take it slowly. If you lose rank, I''ll just get my big brother to boost it back."


    Huo Mei Shu was focused on the game, but didn''t forget to reassure her.


    In the second round, Huo Shao Ting led her. Rong Dai yed a rtively simple support, but the support was not timely and the couple got killed on the spot.


    Rong Dai''s ears turned red as she nced at the assassin Huo Shao Ting was ying. She asked to switch over.

 Chapter 239: Trouble in the Studio

    <h4>Chapter 239</h4>


    She was much better at ying assassin this time than when she yed support.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t expect his wife to have this talent. Seeing the smile on her face, he took the opportunity to kiss her and patiently gave her pointers.


    Rong Dai was a quick learner. Once she got the hang of it, the five of them became abine harvester racking up consecutive wins.


    They yed until four in the morning before finally logging off the game and heading upstairs to sleep.


    Since it was the new year, they woke up quitete on New Year''s Day.


    Rong Dai groggily opened her eyes in bed to see Huo Shao Ting already awake, staring at her. Her heart couldn''t help but skip a beat as she immediately woke up.


    "Do you want to sleep a little longer?"


    Huo Shao Ting had an arm around her waist and gently asked her.


    Rong Dai shook her head. Even though it was the new year, she still had a lot to do. It was impossible for her to just sleep in all day.


    "I still have some things to take care of at thepany today. I''lle back tonight and take you somewhere nice for dinner."


    He stroked her cheek, his eyes full of indulgence.


    "You''re not eating at home today for New Year''s Day?"


    Rong Dai was a little puzzled.


    "Shao Jie and Mei Shu went with mom to the Lu family. It''s like this every year. Granny has to go back too. Our family is different from other families. We only get together on New Year''s Eve."


    "I only eat dinner at home on New Year''s Eve. The rest of the time I''m at thepany."


    "It''s only this year that I have you by my side to spend the new year with."


    His voice was gentle, but Rong Dai found it a little heartbreaking to hear.


    Everyone said wealthy families led morous lives, but for ordinary families New Year''s meant a break until at least the Lantern Festival.


    But for Huo Shao Ting, New Year''s was just a meal at home and staying up till midnight.


    After all, hispany didn''t observe the holidays. There were no Spring Festival celebrations overseas either.


    She nodded, "Then I''ll go to the studioter. Even though the renovation was very thorough, there are still some areas that need organizing."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. The couple got out of bed, washed up, changed, and went downstairs.


    Wang Ma and Li Shu, who were also going back to visit family today, had prepared breakfast for the couple before leaving.


    But it was already cold now, and it was almost noon. So the couple went into the kitchen to make lunch themselves.


    After eating, Huo Shao Ting sent her to the siheyuan they had bought before driving to thepany.


    "Nianzhi?"


    As Rong Dai walked through the door, she saw Lu Nianzhiing over and was a little surprised.


    But Lu Nianzhi just smiled and took out a box from her bag, "New year''s gift for you, happy new year!"


    "Thank you!"


    Rong Dai took the box and put it in her own bag. She had already prepared Lu Nianzhi''s new year''s gift in advance.


    "You''re not spending New Year''s at home today?"


    Lu Nianzhiughed and shook her head, "I already had our family reunion dinner at home yesterday. I saw my aunt and them this morning. For people like us, there''s no rest during the holidays. It''s already pretty good if we can have a meal with family."


    Rong Dai understood. There were always people who had to sacrifice on holidays like this.


    The two walked into the courtyard together. Lu Nianzhi habitually took out her notebook and started examining the overallyout of the courtyard.


    "Courtyards like this are hard to find in this area now. Chairman Huo really spared no expense for you."


    Lu Nianzhi said with a smile.


    Rong Dai could only smile and didn''t try to exin.


    She had very strict requirements for the house. After all, it was a workspace, and delicate work like embroidery couldn''t be done in a damp environment.


    Lu Nianzhi listened very carefully and wrote down all her requirements.


    "Take a look." She handed her notebook to Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai took the notebook and read it carefully. Lu Nianzhi was very meticulous in her work, so Rong Dai was assured, but since this concerned the studio, she still wanted to be more rigorous.


    "No problems. These issues all need to be resolved properly. The studio must stay dry, absolutely no dampness, and the lighting also needs to be bright enough."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, then took out a document from her bag and handed it to her, "This is the n I made. Opening the studio is just the first step."


    "Registering thepany, trademarks, contacting factories, sales channels, etc., I''ve already made ns for all of this. Also, once the studio is operational, it won''t just be the two of us. We''ll need to recruit talent."


    "Give me a clear positioning so I can get it done. Recruiting will be easier after the new year. I''ve also sent you some documents Ipiled of talent resources, people who are looking to switch jobs. These people are connected to the nature of our work, so I think you can prioritize selecting from them if there''s anyone you want."


    Rong Dai nodded. Starting apany was tiring and tedious work. Fortunately, Lu Nianzhi had strong business skills.


    "You''ve really worked hard."


    Looking at the meticulouslyid out information, Rong Dai was very impressed with Lu Nianzhi.


    As Lu Nianzhi put away her notebook, she took out her tablet and showed Rong Dai some photos, "These are all custom made for embroidery. Take a look and see if there''s anything we need to add?"


    "I''ve already contacted the vendors. They''ll personally deliver and install everything on the eighth day after new year''s, so we need to decide how toyout and divide up the studio today."


    Rong Dai nodded and carefully looked over the tablet.


    Lu Nianzhi was a hardcore assistant who had considered every aspect very thoroughly.


    After discussing, they finalized all the details.


    They were both the type to get things done decisively without dragging their feet, so everything got handled very cleanly and efficiently.


    "But I don''t know if Chairman Huo found out, if you buy this courtyard, it may offend the Brocade Embroidery Workshop a bit."


    After finalizing everything, the two found a nearby cafe to get drinks. Lu Nianzhi took out her chat with a friend and showed Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai was a bit surprised to see these messages.


    "Is the Brocade Embroidery Workshop trying to foment internal division, orpete in some way? Why would they open a branch here too? And it shouldn''t be this courtyard, right?"


    While her courtyard was spacious enough for her startup, she would definitely need to move to an office building as the brand grew in the future.


    But the Brocade Embroidery Workshop was already at the pinnacle domestically. Buying this courtyard to open a branch was a bit baffling to her.


    Lu Nianzhi shook her head very seriously, "Grandmaster Shi Yue has incredibly discerning vision. Shi Ning may have been personally nurtured by her, but she is still young in the end. And the Brocade Embroidery Workshop isn''t solely Grandmaster Shi Yue''s decision either, there are other shareholders too."

 Chapter 240: Run into a Classmate

    <h4>Chapter 240</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi took a sip of ck coffee and paused before continuing, "I deliberately asked around about news within the industry. Although there were a few bits of gossip I couldn''t confirm, several shareholders within Jinxiufang are very much against letting Shi Ning take over Jinxiufang."


    "Also, ording to the gossip, Shi Ning''s reputation doesn''t seem to be very good, but there is no solid evidence."


    "I guess Jinxiufang is doing this as Shi Yue''s indirect way of helping. Giving Shi Ning a chance to gain experience and achieve results after leaving Jinxiufang, then those shareholders won''t have much to say."


    Rong Dai hadn''t expected there to be so many twists and turns within Jinxiufang. Although Lu Nianzhi told her this, she didn''t mention the time Shi Ning impersonated her and stole her embroidery work.


    "It shouldn''te to that. Jinxiufang has great financial resources and influence in the industry. They wouldn''t snatch such a small ce from me."


    She didn''t take it to heart. She had already bought the house, so how could Jinxiufang take it back?


    Seeing that she didn''t seem to care much about the matter, Lu Nianzhi naturally didn''t say anything more.


    After sitting at the cafe for a while, Lu Nianzhi left early to deal with matters at the studio.


    Rong Dai sat alone in the cafe. Because it was a holiday, there were exceptionally few people in the shop today, making it feel rather deserted.


    But this quiet andfortable environment was a pleasure for Rong Dai.


    She drank coffee while taking out her phone to look at the news about this TK Fashion Show.


    The theme for this TK Fashion Show was "Encounter."


    One look and you could tell it was a topic rted to love. Rong Dai became engrossed in her phone, her mind already forming the outlines of what she wanted to create.


    Although she had learned about the ssics and trends of high-end brands in this era online, she needed to incorporate elements of this era into her work.


    This posed some difficulty for Rong Dai.


    When making the skirt for Little Sister-inw previously, she had simplified styles found online.


    Moreover, Little Sister-inw was holding a private ssical music concert, so even if the clothes were a bit retro, it was understandable and helped set the mood.


    But it would be different on the runway.


    Works needed soul, and also needed to intuitively express her ideas.


    This TK Fashion Show was an opportunity for her. If she missed it, who knew when such a chance woulde again.


    With the Huo Family Enterprise''s capabilities, it wouldn''t be hard for her to get resources.


    But she wanted to win over everyone with her own abilities, not rely on the Huo Family Enterprise''s reputation to suppress others.


    She had to present a work that would astonish and impress.


    "Dai''er? Is that really you?"


    Just as she was lost in thought, an exmation came from above her head, and the scent of perfume reached her nose.


    Rong Dai instinctively frowned slightly. She didn''t like being disturbed while contemting something.


    She looked up at the two delicately dressed girls before her, puzzled for a moment as she swiftly searched her mind for their identities.


    Song Xuechun, Liang Jiayi.


    They were ssmates from her grade.


    Fortunately, Huo Shaoting had alreadypiled all of the original host''s information for her earlier, including people she had more contact with growing up, like ssmates.


    Otherwise, when seeing these people, she really wouldn''t have been able to recognize them at all.


    After all, they wereplete strangers to her.


    She nodded, a faint, polite smile appearing on her charming cheeks, "Happy New Year, you didn''t go home?"


    Song Xuechun was tall and sweet looking, while Liang Jiayi wasn''t very tall, but luckily had a face that could be described in inte lingo as ''first love''.


    Song Xuechun smiled, "Do you mind if we sit down?"


    "Please have a seat." Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head, inviting the two to sit down. She then had the waitere to take their orders.


    She still needed toplete her studies at the schoolter, so interacting more with these schoolmates could allow her to understand more about things at the school too.


    After all, the information Huo Shaoting gave her could only organize and quantify what was on the surface.


    Interpersonal rtionships were a very wondrous thing that couldn''t be fully expressed through numbers.


    "The teacher assigned us a task this year. TK will have its first fashion show in China this time, and our school managed to obtain the opportunity to go backstage and learn. Each person also has to hand in a manuscript. If the person in charge at TK takes notice, we can obtain the chance to study in France at TK''s headquarters for one year."


    "So while we still have time now, the two of us and quite a few ssmates stayed at school. There are only three spots this time, so the chance is rare."


    After sitting down, Song Xuechun exined it to her, and Liang Jiayi nodded along at the side. It was evident the two were very concerned about this assessment.


    "It''s a pity you took leave from school, otherwise you could have participated too. Opportunities like this don''te often."


    Liang Jiayi said regretfully.


    But Rong Dai just smiled, "If not this time, then next time."


    If not for her opening a studio, such a chance would indeed be very rare for a university student.


    Song Xuechun looked her over and took a sip of hertte, eyes full of puzzlement and curiosity as she asked, "Dai''er, are you okay? When we returned to school and heard you took leave, we were surprised for a bit, didn''t expect you to suddenly acquire Wang of Shengjing."


    "We couldn''t contact you this time period and had no way to do anything for you."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, she could tell these two had decent personalities and were probably quite popr types at school.


    "I''m fine, you should work hard and seize this opportunity."


    Liang Jiayi sighed regretfully, frowning bitterly, "Probably not that easy. Aside from our school, Fangsheng Ya School also obtained the chance this time. Yao Shilin and Cai Yunmeng will also participate. Last time they took part in the designpetition, they not only won the championship but almost swept all the awards."


    "I heard they also seem to be coborating with Jinxiufang this time. Word within Jinxiufang also seems to have spread. If they can obtain TK''s spots this time, they can directly get an offer from Jinxiufang."


    Song Xuechun also nodded worriedly at the side, "Those two are toppetitors. Diehard fans of Jinxiufang too. For this spot, they will surely go all out."


    "If we can get the spot, that''s best, but what if we can''t. Fangsheng Ya is a private school and has nurtured many outstanding designers these past few years. They''ve always been at odds with our school."


    "If Dai''er you hadn''t taken leave, you definitely could have crushed them."


    Liang Jiayi chimed in, her words full of regret.

 Chapter 241: The Concern of My Classmates

    <h4>Chapter 241</h4>


    Song Xuechun also nodded in agreement, looking at Rong Dai with a gaze filled with regret. "Actually, we''re all adults now, and the legal age for marriage has arrived. There''s no need for you to drop out of school."


    Rong Dai listened quietly as the two spoke, a faint smile always present on her delicate cheeks.


    From their conversation, it was clear that the original owner of the body had a good rtionship with both of them during their time at school.


    Just as she finished speaking, Liang Jiayi, who was sitting next to her, discreetly nudged her elbow.


    Song Xuechun realized that he misspoke, his face slightly flushed, and he spoke nervously, "Dai''er, I didn''t mean it like that..."


    "It''s okay, I understand what you mean."


    Rong Dai shook her head. Although she knew the treacherous nature of human hearts, Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi were still decent individuals.


    While she had to conceal her true identity, it didn''t mean she couldn''t interact with these people.


    After all, she still had to go back andplete her studies. It was unlikely that she could avoid contact with the friends of the original owner.


    Seeing that she truly didn''t mind, Liang Jiayi and Song Xuechun finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    From their expressions and behavior, it seemed that they held both fear and admiration for the original owner.


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi cautiously observed her. After a few seconds of silence, Liang Jiayi mustered up the courage to ask her, "Um... Did President Huo not apany you today?"


    With their academic responsibilities, they couldn''t go home for Chinese New Year, so they came to the restaurant to have a meal.


    They didn''t expect to run into Rong Dai here. The news about Rong Dai had been making waves recently.


    Although they knew about it and voiced their support, they had limited power. Moreover, they had lost contact with Rong Dai and couldn''t possibly go to the Huo family to find her.


    Meeting Rong Dai here today was a pleasant surprise for them, but they were also worried and curious.


    After all, she had married into a wealthy family without any prior notice, andizens had even dubbed her the "empress" of Shengjing.


    But then there was the matter with Zuo Ran, which had caused a major uproar.


    And Zuo Ran''s orientation and obsession were simply outrageous!


    If something like this happened to an ordinary person''s daughter-inw, it would definitely be unbearable.


    So when Liang Jiayi asked this question, the underlying meaning was to inquire about how she was doing in the Huo family.


    Rong Dai could discern the deeper implications behind Liang Jiayi''s words and could also see that the two genuinely cared about her.


    She smiled and exined, "He''s still busy at thepany. I just finished handling some matters, so I''m here having a drink while waiting for him."


    Upon hearing her response, Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi didn''t feel reassured. Instead, their faces tightened.


    Song Xuechun, being more straightforward, anxiously asked her, "Dai''er, Jiayi and I don''t have any ulterior motives. We just want to know how you''re doing in the Huo family."


    "Auntie An had an incident, and you didn''t even inform us before quietly marrying President Huo. Although we''re happy for you to marry into a wealthy family, the road to a wealthy family is not as easy as it seems."


    "Regarding what happened with Zuo Ran before... Aiya! Let me finish, I''ve been keeping it in mind every day, and it''s been bothering me!"


    Song Xuechun burst out like a string of firecrackers, while Liang Jiayi, being more cautious in nature, discreetly nudged her elbow to remind her not to speak so clearly.


    But Song Xuechun had been holding it in for too long, and she decided to speak her mind, which made Liang Jiayi feel embarrassed.


    Rong Dai smiled as she looked at the two, trying to ease the tension. "It''s okay, you''re my friends. If there''s anything you want to ask, and that I can answer, I won''t avoid it."


    When they heard her words, Liang Jiayi was somewhat surprised.


    Not only that, Rong Dai also noticed that Song Xuechun seemed slightly surprised.


    Her heart skipped a beat, wondering if she had said something wrong.


    "Dai''er, are you... alright? You didn''t use to speak like this before. You didn''t like us prying into your privacy." Song Xuechun hesitantly asked her.


    Rong Dai felt relieved as long as it wasn''t another question. She smiled and looked directly at both of them. "People change after going through so much. I didn''t want to talk about it before, but you''ve seen what happened with Zuo Ran on the inte, so you probably know."


    The two looked at each other and nodded, feeling a bit sorry for her.


    "We''ve always considered you our friend, and you should have told us about this earlier. Luckily, President Huo took action in time, or who knows what could have happened?" Song Xuechun''s tone was both concerned and slightly reproachful.


    Rong Dai shook her head and smiled lightly. "Zuo Ran was so crazy. If she had harmed you as well, I wouldn''t have been able to live with myself."


    "But now everything is in the past, and I''m doing well in the Huo family. By September, I''ll be going back to school."


    Upon hearing her words, Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi finally felt relieved.


    "That''s good, but since you said we''re friends, even though Liang Jiayi and I may not be able to help you much, as friends, we''re willing to listen to you and offer our support."


    "If you''re not doing well in the Huo family, you don''t have to endure it. You''re so talented that you won''t starve anywhere you go. At worst, there''s still me and Jiayi. We can take care of you."


    Rong Dai felt a warm sensation in her heart, knowing that even though the world could be cold, warmth always existed.


    She couldn''tment on the past of the original host, but now she was Rong Dai, and she had full control of everything here.


    "I will."


    "Well... could you give us your phone number? Since you took a break from school, all our contact information got lost."


    Liang Jiayi took out her phone and asked hesitantly.


    Rong Dai nodded and gave her a string of numbers, while also opening her WeChat QR code and handing it to her. "This is my WeChat."


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi were overjoyed. They added her on WeChat and exchanged phone numbers with each other.


    Due to Rong Dai''s transformation, both of their personalities were quite pleasant, and they found themselves unconsciously engaged in conversation.


    Rong Dai subtly inquired about the original host''s life at school and their interpersonal rtionships with ssmates.


    To her surprise, the original host was quite popr at school, although the majority of admirers were boys. As for the girls...


    Apart from girls like Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi, who possessed exceptional beauty, came from good families, and excelled academically, there were hardly any who liked her.


    After all, her face was simply too captivating.


    Moreover, from their conversation, Rong Dai deduced that the original host had tremendous talent in fashion design.


    She had also seen the original host''s design sketches, and they were indeed remarkable.


    Being a beautiful and talented girl, aside from her slightly reserved nature, it was truly difficult for people not to like her.

 Chapter 242: I took My Only Chance.

    <h4>Chapter 242</h4>


    However, the original owner''s designs were mostly inclined towards the dark and avant-garde styles, possibly due to their environment and personality.


    These designs deviated significantly from her own aesthetic, so she merely nced at those drafts before storing them away in a drawer.


    The original owner had distinct design traits, perhaps because design itself served as an outlet for her emotions, making her designs exceptional.


    However, it was quite difficult for the original owner''s designs to make it to grand stages like TK''s fashion show.


    Nevertheless, Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi admired the original owner, which was probably influenced by their own environment.


    These two individuals appeared obedient and well-behaved, while the original owner''s design drafts were rebellious and expressive, showcasing a unique personality.


    Designs of this kind, if seen by parents, would only bebeled as rebellious acts.


    Perhaps it was precisely because of this that despite some people appreciating the original owner, she couldn''t gain the majority''s recognition.


    Being denied and isted because of her appearance, living in such an environment, the original owner''s life was undoubtedly oppressive, and she had no power to resist.


    So, when facing friends like Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi, the original owner instinctively resisted and kept her guard up.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t have only doctors and nurses around her when she opened her eyes in this parallel world.


    However, such experiences made things easier for the original owner, avoiding questions about her transformation.


    "But Dai''er, you didn''t inform Senior He when you got married. He even asked us a few days ago if we had your contact information."


    "Senior He has been pursuing you since you entered school. It''s been two years, and you''ve been neither hot nor cold towards him. Suddenly getting married like this, if you don''t tell him, I''m afraid your days at school won''t be pleasant..."


    Liang Jiayi rubbed her hands, sounding a bit anxious.


    Rong Dai subtly raised an eyebrow, naturally having no recollection of the Senior He mentioned by Liang Jiayi.


    However, her striking appearance was a force to be reckoned with.


    As the saying goes, beauty can topple kingdoms. It was within her expectations that the original owner would have male admirers.


    But it seemed she didn''t need to exin anything, right? After all, since the original owner had been neither hot nor cold towards this Senior He for two years, she had nothing to exin.


    Therefore, she shook her head and said, "I don''t like him, and he pursued me for two years without sess. My attitude has been clear enough."


    "My marriage is my private matter, and he is just a ssmate to me. I don''t need to exin anything to him. So, until I return to school, please don''t give my contact information to anyone. I don''t want to be disturbed."


    Her words were sincere and gentle, yet resolute and sharp.


    Song Xuechun nodded along with Liang Jiayi, but Liang Jiayi couldn''t help but sigh, "Senior He is quite popr among girls at school. I''m afraid when you return, you''ll face many attacks. Besides, Yao Shilin really likes Senior He."


    Rong Dai naturally understood what awaited her upon returning to school, but she wasn''t afraid or worried.


    "That''s their own business; it has nothing to do with me."


    Seeing her response, Song Xuechun and Huo Shao Ting exchanged a nce, feeling a bit helpless. Dai''erpletely missed the point of their conversation.


    The three of them conversed in the coffee shop for nearly three hours, until the darkness of night descended. It was only when Huo Shao Ting, with his elegant stride, entered the scene that their conversation came to an end.


    "This is Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi, both my ssmates," Rong Dai introduced them. Huo Shao Ting, with his handsome face and gentle expression, nced at the two and nodded slightly, considering it as a greeting.


    "Put on your clothes. It''s a bit cold today. I brought you an extra one, but you insisted on not wearing it," Huo Shao Ting disregarded her two ssmates and personally draped Rong Dai in a double-sided cashmere coat.


    Although there was a hint of reproach in his words, it was predominantly indulgent.


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi immediately became nervous and uneasy, standing up along with Rong Dai, somewhat at a loss as they looked at the couple.


    They were astonished to see Huo Shao Ting, this handsome man, being so considerate and putting a coat on her. After all, he was the emperor of Shengjing!


    Rumors depicted him as cold and heartless, and despite his multi-billion-dor worth, he remained chaste, never being seen with any woman.


    Who could have imagined that these two individuals, who were originally on parallel paths with no chance of intersecting in their lifetimes, would actuallye together? Moreover, it seemed that Huo Shao Ting doted on Rong Dai.


    "Thank you for apanying Rong Dai this afternoon. I kept her waiting due to work matters. I''ve paid for your bills at the shop. Now, I''ll take her back. Please excuse us," Huo Shao Ting said, his gaze shifting to them after ensuring Rong Dai was wrapped up securely.


    Although his tone was calm, it exuded a coldness that made it difficult for people to approach him.


    It was entirely different from how he spoke to Rong Dai.


    He was well aware of the people around Rong Dai, including the former associates of the original host. He had conducted a thorough investigation.


    Although there didn''t appear to be any issues with the two individuals before him, he didn''t want his wife to be involved in any crisis.


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi were already tense, and even though Huo Shao Ting''s words were polite, their hearts couldn''t help but beat nervously.


    "Um, well... We should probably head back to school now. We can make ns with Dai''er some other time." Liang Jiayi stuttered anxiously, not even knowing where to direct her gaze. She quickly looked at Rong Dai and urged Song Xuechun to leave the coffee shop together.


    The two hurriedly left the coffee shop, and only after breathing in the chilling air outside did they finally release a sigh of relief, clutching their chests.


    "Oh my goodness! That was so scary! He truly deserves to be called the emperor of Shengjing. His presence... I can''t handle it!" Song Xuechun eximed dramatically, patting her own chest.


    Liang Jiayi nodded along, "But it seems like Huo Shao Ting treats Dai''er well, and that''s already quite good. After all, not everyone can handle the challenges of an affluent family. Now, can you rx? Although when Dai''er returns to school, I suppose her days there won''t be easy..."


    The two walked hand in hand, sometimes sighing lightly and sometimes expressing concern as they made their way back to school.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but find the situation a bit amusing, but she understood Huo Shao Ting''s concerns.


    He knew about her past and was worried that the people around the original owner would notice her ws and raise suspicions.


    However, she had nothing to fear now.


    Even if she were to speak up, she needed someone to believe her, but most people would probably just think she was crazy.


    "In fact, they are quite nice. Thanks to them, I found out that there were senior students who liked me back when I was in school."


    Sitting in the passenger seat, Rong Dai mischievously spoke up, her eyes smiling as she stared at Huo Shao Ting, waiting for his reaction.


    Huo Shao Ting had one hand on the steering wheel while the other reached over to hold her delicate and fragile hand.


    During a red light, he turned to look at her, speaking with a serious tone and a hint of dominance, "Well, he doesn''t have a chance anymore. The only chance has already been taken by me."


    A smile appeared on Rong Dai''s beautiful cheek, and in her heart, it felt as if she was enveloped in ayer of honey-like sweetness.


    Yes, this one and only chance belonged to him.

 Chapter 243: His First Love Letter

    <h4>Chapter 243</h4>


    "Wear this."


    After passing two red lights, Huo Shao Ting took out a silk eye mask and handed it to her.


    Rong Dai looked at the eye mask and frowned slightly: "What is this for? So mysterious."


    Although she said that, her actions were very obedient. She took the eye mask and put it on.


    Deep down, she had been looking forward to what Huo Shao Ting had told her before, to spend the new year together with him.


    She also wanted to know what kind of surprise he would arrange for her, to make their first new year of being together more meaningful.


    She had also prepared a gift for him, but she wanted to wait and see what new year''s gift he had for her first.


    "You''ll know when we get there."


    Huo Shao Ting said softly, still firmly holding her hand in his.


    Although it was the Spring Festival, it was still very cold in Shenjing in January, and it got dark early. The streets were lined with warm yellow lights, adding a touch of softness in the harsh winter.


    Huo Shao Ting drove to Huafu Mountain City, parked the car in the underground garage, then picked up Rong Dai who was sitting steadily in the passenger seat and carried her in his arms.


    Rong Dai''s vision wentpletely dark. Although she really wanted to sneak a peek or two, she was afraid of spoiling the atmosphere, so she resisted her curiosity and tightly wrapped her arms around his neck.


    "Shao Ting...where are we going?"


    Feeling that he had walked a long way, Rong Dai couldn''t help asking. She was full of anticipation and nervousness in her heart, just like when she first gave herself to him.


    She didn''t know why she still felt this nervous excitement, even though she and Huo Shao Ting were already intimate and their feelings were harmonious.


    But she really enjoyed this feeling of nervous excitement, because every time her heart raced for him, her love for Huo Shao Ting would deepen a little more.


    She hoped that her love for Huo Shao Ting could continue to grow infinitely.


    Even though she had been hurt before, this man''s love and warmth nurtured her, making her brave as well. She was willing to explore together with him, and try new things together.


    "Almost there."


    Huo Shao Ting noticed her nervousness, so he paused in his steps. Lowering his eyes and seeing her slightly parted lips, he swallowed subconsciously and lightly sucked on them.


    Rong Dai''s heart was pounding faster and faster, she was so nervous that her palms were sweating.


    Until Huo Shao Ting put her down, in the warm house, there was the fragrance of flowers, mixed with the smell of burning candles.


    There was also the aroma of food and wine, just the scents in the air were already full of romance and warmth.


    "Wait for me for a bit."


    Huo Shao Ting helped her sit down on a chair, leaned down to kiss her ear, and instructed her in a maic, deep voice.


    Rong Dai obediently nodded, wringing her hands together. Her little heart was pounding wildly.


    Huo Shao Ting''s deep eyes were full of tenderness. He quickly turned and went into the bedroom, changed into a hand-embroidered Western suit, and came out looking neat and dignified, exuding an imperial aura.


    In the warm candlelight, his chiseled features appeared softer. Just one look was enough to mesmerize anyone.


    He personally took off Rong Dai''s eye mask. Seeing her slightly flushed cheeks and exquisite, charming face reveal a hint of anticipation that was charming yet a little mischievous.


    Although the two had reached deep into each other''s bones, every time he looked at her, the throbbing in his heart felt deeper than thest.


    She was like a delicate flower blooming in his heart, needing his care every moment.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart was as soft as a puddle, and every beat was just for her.


    "My wife, you can open your eyes now."


    Hearing his light and gentle voice, Rong Dai slowly opened her eyes.


    In front of the table, there was a candbra with lit candles. Rose petals were scattered all over the table. Beside it was a bottle of red wine ready to be opened. In front of her was an exquisite cake, with their initials written on it.


    Next to the cake was a love letter tucked inside a pink envelope.


    Rong Dai''s heart raced uncontrobly. She looked at Huo Shao Ting sitting across from her in surprise.


    He was like an emperor at this moment, yet so gentle and charming.


    "Open it and take a look. This is the first love letter I''ve written in my life, and it''s only for you."


    Huo Shao Ting said gently.


    Rong Dai nodded. As she opened the envelope, a specially made gold key fell out.


    "What''s this?"


    "My fortune. From now on, every penny I earn will be handed over to you."


    Huo Shao Ting answered truthfully.


    He loved Rong Dai. When he understood his feelings, he had never been more certain.


    In this materialistic era, apart from everything he did for Rong Dai, material security was probably the second biggest sense of security he could give his wife.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment. She remembered his words "I will work hard to support our family". Her heart instantly softened.


    She remembered seeing online that a man who spends money on you doesn''t necessarily love you, but a man who doesn''t spend money on you definitely doesn''t love you.


    But for her, Huo Shao Ting had given her his entire fortune.


    How could she not understand this man''s expression of love? How could she not be moved?


    Then she raised her eyebrows yfully and asked him, "Mr. Huo, aren''t you afraid that your wife will start a business and squander all your fortune?"


    But Huo Shao Ting looked at her indulgently: "You just squander it as you please, I''m responsible for earning it back. I will strive to match the speed at which my wife spends money."


    Rong Dai immediately gave him an annoyed nce, put the key aside, and carefully read the love letter he had handwritten.


    This was the first love letter he had ever written, and it was also the first love letter she had received!


    The content of the letter:


    When I see a deer deep in the woods, and when I wake to see you, they are the most fortunate things in my life.


    Meeting you is the luckiest thing that has happened to me.


    Having you is the most beautiful thing in my life.


    Loving you is the most heart-fluttering thing I''ve ever done.


    From now on, I will be the husband who loves and protects you.


    You will be my only wife, the only woman I truly love.


    A once in a lifetime throb of the heart, only because of you, and only for you.


    Whether it is wind or rain in the future, I will always be your greatest reliance and harbor.


    In this life, loving you is the only firm thing.


    - For my wife, Rong Dai


    Although there were only a few short lines, Rong Dai could feel his heartfelt emotions.


    Her eyes involuntarily became a little wet in the flickering candlelight.


    In her previous life, she had suffered grievously because of love.


    In this life, she never expected that this man would hold her in the palm of his hand, loving her, doting on her.


    Seeing the glistening in her eyes, Huo Shao Ting got up to wipe her tears with a tissue.


    Rong Dai felt warm and sweet inside. She mefully yet sentimentallyined, "It''s all your fault. You promised to spend new year with me but made me cry instead."


    "It''s my fault. I made the cake myself for the first time. Will Madam Huo grace me by trying it?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s tone was indulgent as he coaxed her.

 Chapter 244: Because I spoiled it.

    <h4>Chapter 244</h4>


    Rong Daiughed at being sessfully coaxed by him. While wiping away the tears at the corners of her eyes, her gaze moved to the cake, then shifted to his handsome face.


    Her beautiful eyes were smiling, and the corners of her mouth hooked up a sly smile. Suddenly she reached out and hooked his neck, and cleverly said, "Compared to the delicious cake, I think Mr. Huo seems even more tasty..."


    Her implication could not be more obvious.


    When love runs deep, words are not needed to understand each other''s affection.


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing stagnated slightly, and his deep eyes were stained with the color of being emotionally moved.


    "Mrs. Huo, do you know this is very dangerous?"


    But Rong Dai was extremely bold and slyly smiled. Her body stood up slightly, and one long, straight leg hung around his waist.


    "Dangerous?"


    Seeing her being so bold, Huo Shao Ting''s breathing became heavy. His big hand held her waist and gently lifted her onto the empty dining table on the other side.


    Although they had enjoyed countless intimate moments, such a bold attempt had never been tried by the two before.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but tremble in her heart, feeling anxious but also a little excited, and subconsciously looked up at the window.


    "The privacy here is very good, don''t worry."


    Huo Shao Ting understood her thoughts. He leaned down and kissed her lightly like a dragonfly touching the water, his voice a little hoarse.


    Rong Dai''s worried heart settled down, and was met with Huo Shao Ting''s deep kiss.


    She boldly responded to him. Huo Shao Ting deepened the kiss bit by bit, and the temperature between the two rose little by little.


    The flickering candlelight and the lights outside did notpare to the spring charm in this room.


    After an intense round of heart-racing exercise, Rong Dai copsed softly in his arms. Pointing to her handbag, she said, "There is my New Year''s gift for you in there."


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her cheek affectionately, carried her into the bedroom, cleaned her up, then went to wash himself.


    When he came back with the handbag, he also brought Rong Dai a small piece of cake.


    Rong Dai knew he was considerate, but his meticulous care still warmed her heart.


    Leaning on the bed eating cake, her gaze looked over their new home.


    She didn''t expect designer Li to work so quickly to fulfill her requirements in just a few days. At the Huo residence he certainly could not act so freely on a whim.


    After all, in front of this man, she could be unreserved.


    "This one?"


    Huo Shao Ting took out an exquisitely embroidered sachet from her handbag, embroidered with the initials of his name.


    Rong Dai nodded a little embarrassedly.


    He had given her all his wealth, and she had only embroidered a sachet.


    Her sachet... was truly expensive.


    "I like it."


    A satisfied smile appeared on his handsome face. He leaned down and kissed her forehead.


    Rong Dai poked at the cake, feeling a little depressed with herself.


    But to embroider this sachet, she had squeezed out almost all of her scarce rest time while at the TV and film city.


    But she was still angry with herself. She had agreed that this was their first New Year.


    He had prepared so thoughtfully, yet she was the one who seemed perfunctory.


    "As long as it��s from you, even if it''s a de of grass I will like it and treasure it. I understand your heart."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly. His silly wife.


    He loved her and treated her well, cherishing her. These were all to be expected.


    Rong Dai looked at him with red eyes, breathing hurriedly. She simply put the cake on the bedside table, straddled his legs, hooked his neck with both hands, and took the initiative to kiss him.


    "Your doting on me, I will remember forever, with no way to repay you. Can I offer my body to you?"


    She murmured softly, asking him.


    "Okay..."


    He responded gently, and the married couple climbed the peak again in the warmth of the new spring.


    This time Rong Dai really couldn''t hold on, crying weakly and helplessly, then fell asleep.


    Huo Shao Ting held her. The satisfaction on his handsome face was something he had never experienced before meeting Rong Dai. Husband and wife fell asleep in each other''s arms.


    When Rong Dai woke up in the morning, her whole body was inevitably sore, swollen and painful.


    "Does your waist hurt? Let me massage it for you."


    Huo Shao Ting had been waiting for her to wake up. Seeing her frowning expression when she opened her eyes, he knew where she was ufortable.


    Rong Dai nodded. Very naturally she turned over andy prone, waiting for Huo''s service.


    At first, Huo Shao Ting did give her a proper massage on her sore waist.


    But gradually, Rong Dai noticed something wrong. The man behind her breathing suddenly became heavy, and her back was also fiery hot.


    "Shao Ting, you..."


    She was shy and annoyed, but her body''s reaction and excitement annoyed her even more. But her heart was trembling.


    This anger and pleasure made her unforgettable.


    On the morning of the second day of the lunar new year, Rong Dai did not go anywhere. She was "sealed" by Huo Shao Ting on the soft memory foam bed until the afternoon.


    It wasn''t until she received a message from Lu Nian Zhi that she remembered she still had studio affairs to attend to.


    Looking at the man in front of her, she gnashed her teeth, but there was nothing to use him of. She could only get up, wash up, change into home clothes, and quickly video chat with Lu Nian Zhi about work.


    Yesterday, Lu Nian Zhi had asked her for recruitment criteria, and she had her own principles, so it wasn''t difficult tomunicate.


    "Loyalty, responsibility, diligence is the first priority. Professional skills and business capabilities can be cultivated. For fashion design, the innovation of the work is very important. If I can''t trust the core characters, I''d rather be understaffed than overstaffed."


    While video conferencing with her, Lu Nian Zhi clicked and cked on the keyboard, taking notes carefully.


    "I have the same point of view."


    She nodded, very much approving Rong Dai''s criteria on this point.


    "Did you look at the talent information I sent you yesterday? Is there anyone suitable?"


    She asked Rong Dai. Those talent information were carefully screened by her. After all, once the studio starts, it would be a bit difficult to get it going if all neers are used.


    But Rong Dai shook her head: "I don''t n to use those people."


    The appearance of Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi yesterday made her change her mind.


    Looking at the information, the people Lu Nianzhi gave were indeed very good, and some had been in the industry for several years with very strong business capabilities.


    But there was one thing��her studio was just starting.


    Some people mighte because she was Mrs. Huo, just going through the motions.


    Some were genuinely talented, but she couldn''t guarantee that she would definitely get the TK Show resources this time.


    These people were actually "big bosses" in the industry. Her temple was small and could not amodate them.


    Rather than making a mess out of it in the end, it would be better to work harder from the start, recruit and train her own team, so that those who started the business with her would have a sense of responsibility.


    Moreover, fresh blood and young thinking could unconsciously create unexpected works in creation, which was what she needed.

 Chapter 245: You are the prosperity I want to have

    <h4>Chapter 245</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi was actually surprised that she had this perspective. She had served many employers, but they were all sessful people.


    None of them were as young, beautiful, charming and attractive as Rong Dai.


    Although she had been in contact with Rong Dai for less than two months, Rong Dai''s personality and qualities made her look at this girl with admiration.


    The ns she had made for Rong Dai were the most effective and fastest way, after all this was TK''s first show in Huaxia, which was a good opportunity for cooperation.


    Once such an opportunity was missed, it would be very difficult to have it again in the future.


    In addition, starting a studio was a daunting endeavor.


    Choosing elites in the industry as partners was one of the most effective ways to get the studio to move at the pace of the industry as quickly as possible.


    But Rong Dai chose the "slowest" model instead.


    This required not only courage and confidence, but also guts.


    "With this choice, you have to be mentally prepared, it will be much more difficult."


    Lu Nianzhi recorded while reminding her.


    Of course Rong Dai knew that this way, her entrepreneurial journey would be very difficult, after all she chose neers.


    But she was just like that. After experiencing what happened in her previous life, she understood many things.


    Anything that could be managed, whether it was people or things, was bound to be an umtion.


    Rather than that, it was better to start from the ground up and suffer hardship from the very beginning.


    "Let''s do it this way. I''ll take care of the finances for now. You''ll have to work a little harder on the HR side."


    Rong Dai nodded seriously. Working with Lu Nianzhi was really a very pleasant thing.


    Lu Nianzhi raised her eyebrows, seemingly surprised, and asked her, "Are you looking to groom talent within thepany?"


    Rong Dai nodded. She must have capable partners around her in order to aplish this entrepreneurial journey, which she couldn''t do alone.


    "Sister Nianzhi, I want to personally select the candidates for the interviews."


    Because this dream was about her being able to get closer and closer to Huo Shao Ting.


    So she had to manage it with tremendous effort and utmost caution.


    She hoped that her studio in the future would be a ce of dreams, and not just a money-making tool.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded and recorded all her requirements.


    After chatting for a while longer, the two were about to end the video call.


    "Rong Dai." Lu Nianzhi suddenly called her. A meaningful smile appeared on her face. She raised her hand and pointed to her own neck, then added with augh, "Don''t overindulge, you''ll be very busy this month."


    At first Rong Dai was stunned, and after Lu Nianzhi smiled and hung up the video, she reacted to what was going on. She rushed to the mirror to check her neck.


    She saw two very delicate hickeys on her slender swan neck.


    She immediately held her breath, her cheeks burning hot!


    If her head was a boiling teapot, she would definitely be able to see the steam rolling out of both of her ears!


    "Huo Shao Ting!"


    She covered her neck with her hand, feeling both ashamed and annoyed as she yelled out his name.


    Thinking that she had just talked with Lu Nianzhi for so long with these two bright red hickeys on her neck, she wished she could crawl into a crack in the ground!


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with a smile, walked over to her and hugged her. He lowered his head and sniffed her ear, his voice gentle, "I''ll be more careful next time, it''s just...my wife, you''re too delicious."


    Hearing his tender words, Rong Dai''s anger dissipated. She could only look at him resentfully.


    Taking advantage of the situation, Huo Shao Ting lightly pecked her cheek. The couple sat down on the sofa like conjoined twins.


    Although it was the second day of the Lunar New Year, the couple were both busy with their own things, and so the afternoon passed by.


    It wasn''t until the evening that Rong Dai came to her senses and looked around their little home.


    "Writing down notes?"


    Huo Shao Ting brought her a knitted cardigan to put on. Seeing her writing something down with a notebook in her hand, he kissed the tip of her ear and gently asked.


    Rong Dai''s heart quivered. Although she was already used to being intimate with him, every time Huo Shao Ting got close to her, it still made her heart flutter.


    The corners of her lips curled up in a faint smile. With a pen in one hand, she pointed to some empty wall spaces, "I want to paint some things on the walls when I have time. It''s too empty,cks some warmth."


    "You make the decisions."


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened. Although the woman he loved was in front of him, standing in their warm home, he still had an unreal sense of disbelief.


    Rong Dai looked at him with a tilted smile, took the initiative to tiptoe and kissed his lips, "So, Mr. Huo will be in charge of dinner today."


    "Okay..."


    His voice was indulgent, and the way he looked at her was even more gentle, like a soft cloud in the blue sky.


    With that said, he went to the kitchen.


    Rong Dai continued with her ns. She already had in mind what she wanted to paint.


    Huo Shao Ting put a lot of thought into the dinner. Everything was light and not greasy, warming for the stomach and delicious.


    After eating their fill, Rong Dai took him to the study.


    "May I borrow Mr. Huo''s precious few minutes?"


    Yesterday he had written her a love letter, and she also wanted to write something for him.


    The study was fully equipped with custom ink, brushes, paper and inkstones. Huo Shao Ting indulged her, as long as she was happy, he would apany her in anything.


    "What do you want to write?"


    Other than knowing her identity and having seen her embroidery skills and cooking, there were still many hidden talents of hers that he had yet to discover.


    "Help me grind some ink."


    Rong Dai instructed him. Huo Shao Ting obediently did as told.


    However, grinding ink was something rarely done by modern people who seldom wrote with brushes anymore. So in the end, Rong Dai had to teach him.


    She spread out the paper on the desk, dipped the brush in ink, and started writing without thinking.


    Her calligraphy was as skilled as her embroidery.


    After all, these things were already ingrained in her bones. In her previous life, after she became an empress, the emperor visited her pce less and less.


    Time passed especially slowly in the depths of the pce. To kill time other than thinking of ways to please the emperor, the only thing she could do was practice her calligraphy to calm her heart.


    So her writing was especially delicate and graceful, with beautiful plum blossom script that looked as if it was printed.


    She did not use ancient poetry to reply to Huo Shao Ting''s love letter, butbined modern writing conventions, and wrote three sentences.


    You are the wildflower that blooms in my heart.


    You are the stars and seas in my eyes.


    You are my one and only desired splendor in this life.


    They were simple three sentences, but her feelings were not something these words could fully capture.


    "Shao Ting, you are my stars and seas, my splendor."


    With the brush in one hand, she looked at him askance with a faint smile on her beautiful cheeks.


    Her eyes were serious, her voice gentle but firm in every word.


    The simple three sentences were like a thousand-pound hammer, pounding Huo Shao Ting''s heart repeatedly.

 Chapter 246: Covet his handsomeness

    <h4>Chapter 246</h4>


    Although she had long understood her feelings, this was the first time Rong Dai had given him such a serious and resolute answer.


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing stalled slightly, and a faint sourness at the tip of his heart was gradually dyed into a sweet sea of flowers.


    He walked over to her side, took the writing brush from her hand and put it away properly, then hugged her with both arms, lightly yet firmly.


    He looked down at Rong Dai, his heart had never been so soft before.


    Like cotton candy, and like clouds.


    He looked at her with a serious and deep expression, his voice gentle and mellow: "Rong Dai, you are my only star."


    Because your appearance made my world no longer lonely.


    Because of you, I understand that having someone to love in my heart is so beautiful.


    A light blush appeared on Rong Dai''s cheeks as she sped his shoulders with both hands, her body pressed tightly against his.


    The couple''s hearts throbbed as they gently embraced each other, each being the happiness the other wanted to protect in their hearts.


    The next morning, the couple woke up together, and the way they looked at each other was almost spilling out of the frame with tenderness.


    The two worked together to make breakfast and sat at the table leisurely enjoying it. Rong Dai handed what she had written down yesterday to Huo Shao Ting while eating.


    "I want to buy these things. Our home iscking some decorations."


    Rong Dai said while looking at him. She was an empress in her previous life, so her taste was naturally different. Also, their home had a Chinese style.


    Although the decoration style was veryfortable, the designer Li had deliberately left some empty spaces for embellishments.


    In fact, it was also a kind of romance for the couple to decorate their home together.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. After breakfast, although it was the third day of the lunar new year, for a prosperous ce like Shengjing, businessmen would not miss any order.


    The couple drove to Flower and Tree World. Unexpectedly, there were quite a lot of people.


    Rong Dai had unique tastes. She also did not dawdle when selecting things. So shopping at Flower and Tree World only took half an hour before buying everything.


    Huo Shao Ting had originally wanted to subscribe to a monthly delivery service, but Rong Dai insisted oning to pick when she had time, so he could only let go.


    After selecting the decorative flowers and nts, Huo Shao Ting took her to a private art gallery to select painting materials.


    Everything was to Rong Dai''s liking. After picking a few times, all the items were purchased.


    Seeing how quickly his wife shopped, Huo Shao Ting was quite impressed.


    It was rare to see a woman shop so neatly and decisively.


    The couple first went back to the Huo residence and moved some of theirmonly used items to Huafu Hill City.


    Looking at the Huo residence, Rong Dai hadplicated feelings.


    This was the first foothold she found when she came to this different world, and many unforgettable things happened here.


    She was actually a very nostalgic person. Although she had stayed at the Huo residence for a shorter time than at the filming site,


    the meaning of this ce to her was different.


    Huo Shao Ting noticed her change in mood and gently stroked her cheek: "We cane back often."


    The meaning of the Huo residence was naturally different to him too.


    But now he was a married man. This house had grandmother and mother in it.


    It is said that the rtionship between mother-inw and daughter-inw is an eternal difficult problem.


    He didn''t want her to suffer for his sake. Her agreeing to grandmother''s request and taking on this burden as mistress was distressing enough.


    Also, he wanted more, even more alone time with her.


    With her by his side, his heart had an anchoring point, an incredible sense of security.


    Rong Dai nodded. Huafu Hill City was not far from the Huo residence. She could even walk back.


    The couple then returned to their own little nest. Huo Shao Ting could not leave thepany affairs, so their house was designed with two studies for the convenience of both their work.


    After Huo Shao Ting went to handlepany matters, Rong Dai called Lu Nianzhi to confirm the hiring information and studio affairs, then she started her own work.


    The couple spent the third day of the lunar new year at Huafu Hill City, and returned to the Huo residence on the fourth day.


    Grandmother and mother-inw had returned. The mother-inw had a smile on her face, apparently this trip back to the Lu family had put her in a good mood.


    Rong Dai felt relieved. Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li had also returned. Dinner was prepared by Mrs. Wang.


    During dinner, Huo Shao Ting talked about them moving out.


    "That''s good. You should have a good time together. Come back and visit when you have time."


    Grandma Huo nodded. This was exactly what she hoped for.


    The more alone time the young couple had, the more chances she had to hold her great-grandchild.


    "I heard Nianzhi say about your studio. Originally every year during New Year, these family ns would hold banquets. This year, we''ll postpone ours until March."


    Grandma Huo added.


    Rong Dai felt a warmth in her heart. After first ncing to see that her mother-inw had no objections, she then spoke: "Thank you, Granny."


    Although Grandma Huo and her mother-inw had requirements of her, in all fairness, they had treated her well enough.


    She also understood Grandma Huo''s intention for hosting this banquet.


    Since she was to be the mistress, naturally she would need to get acquainted with the families associated with the Huos, and it was also a way to subtly announce that she would be the next mistress of the Huo family.


    "Granny, Mom, there''s something I want to tell you."


    After discussing with Rong Dai, Huo Mei Shu spoke up a little apprehensively.


    "Go ahead."


    Grandma Huo nodded.


    "I...I got hired as an assistant at Senior Gu Chengyan''spany. I want to postpone going abroad for now."


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t dare look straight at the two elders, and after speaking, her eyes subconsciously stared at the food in front of her, anxiously wringing her hands together.


    "No."


    Before Grandma Huo and Lu Zheng could speak, Huo Shao Jie was the first to object.


    Huo Mei Shu immediately flushed red, staring at him for a few seconds in shock before responding somewhat angrily: "I didn''t ask for your opinion. What do you mean no?!"


    She had finally obtained this opportunity at Senior Gu Chengyan with great difficulty. She was not going to give it up!


    "I''m your second brother. I say no, so it''s no. If it was Jiang Xu, I could consider it."


    Huo Shao Jie rejected decisively.


    "There''s only music in Gu Chengyan''s eyes, heart and mind. Music is his life. I really don''t know what you see in him."


    He was truly at a loss with this somewhat willful sister of his.


    Gu Chengyan was his childhood friend, but that guy''s personality was indescribable and difficult to figure out.


    "Other than being handsome and talented, tell me what else you like about him?"


    Huo Mei Shu was angered by Huo Shao Jie''s words. He was her idol!


    "Isn''t that enough for me to like him? I''m just shallow, I just like his looks, I''m greedy for his handsomeness! I just like his talent! What business is it of yours? You don''t need to prepare a dowry for me!"


    This second brother, not only doesn''t help her but sabotages her!

 Chapter 247: Your sister-in-law is Younger than You.

    <h4>Chapter 247</h4>


    Rong Dai was a little exasperated watching this pair of siblings, but she did not speak up to give any opinion. This concerned the lifelong happiness of her young aunt, although she was the elder sister-inw, Old Madam and Mother-inw were still around, it was not yet her turn to give any opinion.


    Moreover, for her young aunt''s marriage, it was always difficult for the daughter-inw to interfere. Even if she were to ask for her and Huo Shao Ting''s opinion, it could only be Huo Shao Ting speaking up.


    She could support her young aunt privately, but bringing it up overtly would be different. Especially because of the steward affair, Mother-inw was already unhappy. Although Mother-inw did not me her for anything, her appearance did after all "rob" the steward of his power.


    Even if Mother-inw did not seem to mind anymore overtly, this matter was probably still a thorn in her heart.


    So she did not say anything, but Huo Mei Shu trusted her, and also admired her. Moreover, Huo Mei Shu was different from her. Although both grew up pampered since young, but her young aunt did not experience what she went through in her previous life, so although her young aunt was older than her in age, she did not consider many things.


    "Sister-inw, you''ve seen Senior Gu before, help me assess, what''s wrong with him? Does my second brother speak like this? And to think he''s your childhood friend!"


    Huo Mei Shu was so angry that she heavily put down her chopsticks on the dining table.


    Just as Rong Dai was thinking about how to reply, Huo Shao Ting who was sitting next to her spoke up.


    "Are you only three years old? You''re troubling your sister-inw with this kind of thing? Your sister-inw is younger than you, are you not ashamed?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was calm, his tone was also cold and detached.


    "I..."


    Huo Mei Shu''s face turned slightly pale, she choked up and stared at Huo Shao Ting nkly, extremely nervous.


    "That Gu child...he''s good, but he won''t be a good match. Mei Shu, you have to consider this clearly yourself, Granny will not interfere with you."


    Huo Old Madam finally spoke after a few seconds. She rarely interfered with matters concerning Huo Mei Shu and Huo Shao Jie.


    She had already raised a Huo Shao Ting, there was no need to be like this with her other children.


    As long as this family still stood, even if they went out adventuring and came back battered, it did not matter.


    This family was their haven.


    Moreover, having lived to this age, what storms had she not seen? She dared not say shepletely understood human nature, but she also had some grasp of it.


    The more one tried to stop something, the more likely it would backfire, it was better not to interfere from the start. After getting hurt, they would naturally know to turn back.


    "Granny, you..."


    Huo Shao Jie was very helpless, but the Old Madam''s words werew in the family.


    Lu Zheng was also a little angry, this was her daughter!


    Although the Gu Family was good, but that Gu Cheng Yan child, she had seen him before, he was just as her second son described.


    In his heart, eyes and mind there was only music. Aside from music he was a fool in everything else.


    If her daughter really married such a person, how could she be happy?


    Both Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai could understand what the Old Madam meant. Rong Dai was very admiring of the Old Madam inwardly.


    It was true what people said, that a family with an old person was like having a treasure.


    "Can you stop her? Even if you send her abroad, her heart is still thinking of him, what use is that? Let her go through it herself and suffer a bit to understand."


    The Old Madam said lightly as she continued eating with her chopsticks.


    Lu Zheng and Huo Shao Jie could only stay silent. After all it was their own family member, they naturally understood her personality.


    Although Huo Mei Shu did not like hearing this, but since her family did not object, she felt assured!


    "Granny really understands me! Granny, I toast you!"


    The Old Madamughed gently, looking at her helplessly yet lovingly. "In this family, only your big brother can subdue you."


    "Learn more from your sister-inw. A woman''s whole life, still has to rely on herself, that''s fundamental. No matter how much you like someone, you cannot lose your own heart, understand?"


    "I understand Granny!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded happily. The dining atmosphere became harmonious again.


    Rong Dai looked at her young aunt''s ted appearance, thinking about what the Old Madam said just now. If, in her previous life she could have understood these principles earlier, perhaps the Rong Family and her would not have met with that fate...


    It would be good if her young aunt could understand this earlier too.


    But these kind of things could only be realized through one''s own experiences. The summarizations of others were not necessarily easy to take in.


    After the meal, the family had a short meeting before the Old Madam went upstairs to rest.


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting still had work to do, Huo Shao Jie also prepared to return to the set for post-production.


    While Huo Mei Shu was still immersed in joy. The couple bid farewell to Mother-inw before leaving the Huo Residence, returning to Huafoshan City.


    The studio and recruitment were very important, but to amodate Rong Dai''s work, Lu Nianzhi did not immediately release the recruitment notice, only getting the studio ready first.


    Rong Dai could focus on creating designs at home.


    Huafoshan City had all the embroidery tools and materials. Huo Shao Ting doted on her tirelessly creating day and night, attentively taking care of every aspect of her daily life.


    Rong Dai already had thepositions she wanted to create in mind every morning. It was just that the TK Fashion Show required a series, so her creation period had to be longer.


    From the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, by Lantern Festival her creations were finalized.


    There were still neen days until the tenth of March.


    When Lu Nianzhi saw her sketches, she also could not help but have her eyes light up.


    "I thought this would take you a very long time, that''s why the timeline seems so rushed. But your design...very innovative, with a strong Eastern ir."


    Although she had not been in the design industry, she had good aesthetic sense. Rong Dai''s sketches, although she had not seen the finished clothes, still left her feeling amazed.


    "I originally wanted to userge areas of embroidery, but there wasn''t enough time, so I could only reduce the areas of embroidery, and make the styles more innovative to bring out the Eastern ir more."


    "For us Chinese people, emotions are implicit and delicate. This encounter, I don''t think it only refers to couples, but the encounter with all the beautiful things around us."


    Rong Dai said with a faint smile.


    With her experience from her previous life, her perspective on many things was different.


    Encounter, how could it only be because of love?


    A flower, a de of grass, were also encounters.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. "Then there are only neen days left, can you finish it on time?"


    Rong Dai confidently nodded. "The fashion show side said they wanted a series, but did not specify exactly how many sets were needed. Mine is too rushed, to properly create a full series, preparations should have started half a year ago."


    Unfortunately half a year ago she was still fighting for her survival, where would she have paid attention to TK Fashion Show news?


    "So I simplified it, only selected six sets to showcase. If TK chooses it, of course that is good news. If it is not selected, that is also no issue, we can produce it ourselves."


    "Ourpany has been established. I believe in our work, and believe in your business capabilities."


    She exined resolutely.

 Chapter 248: The Question of the Fairyland

    <h4>Chapter 248</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi immediately noticed the change in Rong Dai''s attitude.


    She handed the manuscript back to her and looked at her hesitantly, asking, "Have you changed your mind?"


    Rong Dai looked at her approvingly. If it was someone else, it would have been really hard to detect this subtle change in her thinking.


    But Lu Nianzhi was truly exceptionally capable. Not only was her business capability strong, her ability to read people was also first-rate.


    "I haven''t changed my original intention, just changed the approach."


    Lu Nianzhi raised her brows. "I''m actually a little confused. When I analyzed it with you before, you didn''t waver at all. What made you change your mind in just a few days?"


    She had told Rong Dai before that she should either take the exquisite, high-end route. This path of development would be slow, but once reputation and poprity umted, it would be very effective.


    Slow and steady wins the race, especially for intricate work like embroidery. With sufficient time and consummate embroidery skills, the quality of the finished products would undoubtedly be good.


    But Rong Dai had resolutely said back then that she wanted to use Brocade Embroidery Workshop as a benchmark to catch up, which would have sounded like a joke if it came from anyone else''s mouth.


    But Rong Dai had Huo Shao Ting behind her back.


    She believed that if Rong Dai encountered difficulties in starting her business, Huo Shao Ting would not stand idly by.


    Rong Dai looked at her admiringly. "My original intention and philosophy have not changed. I just extended the process."


    "What made me change my mind was that incident at the siheyuan that day you talked about things inside Brocade Embroidery Workshop. That changed my thinking."


    "Brocade Embroidery Workshop is currently the industry leader in embroidery. Their aplishments are also very impressive, this is undeniable."


    "But at the same time, their problems are also obvious. I''ve seen every piece from Brocade Embroidery Workshop from the beginning until now. Up until three years ago, Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s works could still be described as being crafted with skill and ingenuity."


    "But have you noticed that starting three years ago, Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s works have stagnated in creation? There are even signs of regression."


    "Machine embroidery is inevitable, after all manpower is limited, but Brocade Embroidery Workshop has extensively used machine embroidery. Only high-end custom orders are done by the embroiderers by hand. You canpare Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s current works with those from ten years ago, the degree of refinement is not just one or two levels worse."


    Rong Dai exined that she had been holed up in the study creating over the past few days. Aside from creating, she had read arge number of works, and had even looked through all of Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s pieces.


    This decision was also one she had just made in thest two days.


    She had been too eager to aplish what she wanted to do earlier, to quickly develop what she had envisioned. That way, she would be much closer to Huo Shao Ting.


    But after discovering Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s problems, she began to waver in her original decision. Was she being a little too eager for quick sess?


    It was undeniable that if she wanted to surpass the decade-plus developed Brocade Embroidery Workshop in a short period of time, borrowing the current status of the Huo Group, she would absolutely be able to do it.


    But the end product might not be what she wanted.


    On New Year''s Eve at the Huo residence when the elderly madam was teaching the young daughter-inw, although she was eavesdropping, one thing she heard stuck with her.


    Don''t forget your original intention.


    Her original intention was to showcase the appeal of embroidery and disy the elegance of ancient China.


    On this path, she could aplish herself and obtain what she desired.


    Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s problems were an epiphany to her.


    Thinking about it, the reason why Master Shi Yue wanted Shi Ning to go out and temper herself was that she must have discovered problems at Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    But Brocade Embroidery Workshop had already reached its status today, to put it inly, it had already hit its ceiling.


    Even if there were some deficiencies, for them to remedy it now would be akin to a chicken rib - pointless.


    Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s peak times were already in the past. Going forward, if Brocade Embroidery Workshop could not find a suitable path for development, decline would be inevitable.


    It was precisely these details that jolted her awake.


    "We''recking manpower now, thepany also needs to nurture talent, so let''s take it one step at a time. I still have dozens of years ahead, I will eventually reach the heights I desire."


    She added with a smile.


    Perhaps it was because of the intimate time with Huo Shao Ting over the new year period that gave her more confidence, naturally her mindset became more calm.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded approvingly. "This puts my mind at ease."


    Rong Dai just smiled faintly. Her decision was not just because of these details, but even more so because of Huo Shao Ting.


    "Did Huo give you advice? Otherwise it would be difficult for someone as determined as you to change their mind so quickly in a short period of time."


    Lu Nianzhi was also adept at reading people. Seeing the smile on her face, she jokingly asked her a question.


    She didn''t actually intend to pry into their marital privacy from Rong Dai, it was just a joking question.


    But Rong Dai nodded very seriously. "That''s right."


    "Back then at the film studio, he knew I was struggling with this issue, so he took me to see the factory. I became even more resolute in my original idea, but after realizing Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s problems during this time, when I was hesitating, he also noticed."


    "In fact he didn''t say much, just told me a few simple words - seize the moment. Currently the Chinese people''s standard of living has improved, so the need for material things has correspondingly increased as well."


    "Although if I did it ording to my original idea, he would have definitely supported me, but I feel that in less than ten years, or even five years, possibly within two years I would encounter the problems Brocade Embroidery Workshop has now."


    She really didn''t know what else to say about this man. His tenderness and thoughtfulness towards her had reached the extreme.


    Huo Shao Ting managed such a hugepany like Huo''s Enterprise and held an important position - his business acumen was undoubtedly astute.


    She had only just noticed the crux of Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s problems now, but Huo Shao Ting must have discerned it long ago.


    Yet he didn''t want her to be discouraged, so he went along with what she wanted.


    It was the same principle as the old madam teaching the young daughter-inw. Even if Huo Shao Ting had stopped her back then and analyzed the pros and cons, she might not necessarily have listened. Only when she discovered the problems herself would she reflect and be willing to listen to others'' opinions.


    "As expected, Huo still sees further ahead."


    Lu Nianzhi sighed lightly with augh, then the two continued to discuss some details. Rong Dai was going to start on the production process.


    "Thepany''s security is not perfected yet. The important thing is to protect the drafts and samples. It''s also more convenient for you at home, so I suggestpleting thepetition piece at home this time. I''ll oversee things on thepany side, you can just focus on finishing thepetition entry."


    Rong Dai nodded. "That''s what I was thinking too."


    "Are you set on using this name Magnolia Fragrance?"


    Lu Nianzhi looked at the business license. Although she knew it was useless to ask now, she still couldn''t help wanting to know Rong Dai''s thoughts.


    "Yes, this one. I like it." Rong Dai nodded.

 Chapter 249: Shi Yue Master鈥檚 Invitation

    <h4>Chapter 249</h4>


    After Rong Dai finished discussing all matters with Lu Nianzhi, she brought all the necessary materials back to Washington.


    Huo Shao Ting had also been exceptionally busy these past few days. When Rong Dai returned home and took out her phone to see the message she had sent Huo Shao Ting at noon, noticing that he had not replied yet, she turned off the phone screen.


    Although she had not asked about thepany''s situation, it was evidently not very optimisticst year when she video chatted with the old madam.


    Plus, during this time when she was working on her creations, it was Huo Shao Ting who had been taking care of her and their little home.


    After moving everything into the embroidery room, she did not hurry to get started, but instead went to the supermarket to buy groceries.


    Because of the hype around TK Huaxia''s first fashion show and the poprity ofst year''s trending actress due to a TV series, she only wore a scarf when going out, yet no one really noticed her.


    On her way back with the groceries, she ran into some unexpected people.


    Shi Ning and Shi Yue.


    When Shi Ning saw Rong Dai again, her expression was a bit uneasy.


    She had always been the star since childhood. Not only was she beautiful, but Jin Xiu Fang also had such a reputation. Rong Dai was the first person who dared argue with her like that.


    Moreover, she had not fulfilled her promise to Rong Dai regarding the matter with the Qiao family. Of course she knew everything going on internally at Jin Xiu Fang.


    So she was exceptionally nervous that Rong Dai would ask her about the matter she had promised at the Qiaos''.


    But Rong Dai''s mind had beenpletely upied with embroidery these days, and she had temporarily forgotten about the matter with the Qiaos.


    "Shi Lao."


    When she saw Shi Yue Master, she stopped in her tracks, a faint smile on her face as she nodded lightly and addressed her.


    Although there was not much interaction between her and Shi Yue Master, and there were problems at Jin Xiu Fang, Rong Dai still deeply admired this olddy for building Jin Xiu Fang to what it was today.


    Shi Yue Master also remembered Rong Dai. A kindly smile appeared on her face as she nodded in response, "Oh it''s you. You live here now too?"


    Rong Dai politely nodded, "Mm."


    She had only intended to say hello in passing after all, since it would be quite difficult not to be recognized walking straight towards each other with her face.


    But Shi Yue Master did not seem intent on leaving immediately. Instead, she looked at Rong Dai with a smile and asked, "Your name is Rong Dai, right?"


    "Yes, Shi Lao," Rong Dai had no choice but to keep standing there and answer.


    Shi Yue Master looked at her approvingly. She sighed lightly, "As expected, the new generation surpasses the old. Your embroidery skills are exquisite. Although I know the chances are low, I still hope you cane to Jin Xiu Fang."


    Although her granddaughter was also very outstanding, there were still some areas where she was simply unable to properly train her.


    Rong Dai''s appearance gave her hope.


    She believed her judgement would not be wrong. It was just that Rong Dai was the young mistress of the Huo family. For an ordinary family it would still be possible, but with the Huo family, she was slightly less confident.


    Rong Dai was also a little surprised, but she still politely declined with a smile, "Thank you for your high praise, Shi Lao. But I have my own business to attend to, I''m afraid I may be spreading myself too thin, so I will have to miss out on this opportunity."


    Her refusal made Shi Yue Master slightly disappointed.


    Sitting to the side watching the two converse, Shi Ning''s heart clenched tightly!


    Although her grandmother had hid things about thepany from her, having been at thepany for so many years, how could she not have her own connections?


    So she knew everything that had happened at the shareholders meeting.


    But there was nothing she could do. She was weak and powerless right now. Her grandmother''s attitude was also not firm enough.


    Compared to whether she could take over Jin Xiu Fang, her grandmother cared more about Jin Xiu Fang''s future development prospects. After all, this was the brand she had built up with her own hands.


    So when her grandmother suggested she open her own studio under her own name and participate in this TK fashion show, she had agreed.


    And for thispetition, she had devoted almost all her energy.


    As long as she could make a ssh, her grandmother would definitely support her.


    But what was her grandmother doing now?


    She was actually trying to win over Rong Dai! Could it be that she wanted Rong Dai to take her ce?


    Ever since she was little, she got everything she wanted from her family.


    Her grandmother had always doted on her exceptionally as well. But this kind of situation now made her unable to ept it in her heart, and it dealt a huge blow!


    Of course, Rong Dai conversing with Shi Yue Master had no idea of her thoughts. Faced with Shi Yue Master''s invitation, she naturally would not agree.


    She was already busy with her own matters, plus she had Sister Nianzhi who was truly capable.


    Even if she was unable to catch up to Jin Xiu Fang in a short amount of time, she was alright with that. She needed to steadily walk to Huo Shao Ting''s side step by step.


    "Have you seen the news about TK Huaxia''s first fashion show? If you want to participate, there are still over ten days left. You could make a small piece. I can submit it with Jin Xiu Fang''s entries, but specially mark that it is your work."


    "After all, TK is looking for a full series this time. Ten days would not be enough time for you toplete it."


    Shi Yue Master made this invitation very generously. Seeing the look in Rong Dai''s eyes, she had ambition.


    Rong Dai also had not expected her to say this. She was a little surprised.


    Then she smiled and shook her head, "I''m afraid I will have to disappoint Shi Lao''s generosity, I really have no time."


    She had secretly opened a studio and did not publicize it, precisely because she did not want any reports or more people to know for the time being.


    After all, the speed at which she had been trending on Weibost year still made her scared to this day. Once she started trending again, TK might, for the sake of thepany''s future development in Huaxia, choose her work too.


    For thepany''s interests, TK might do this.


    After all, they had done a lot of preparation work for this first Huaxia fashion show, all for the sake of "interests".


    What would be the point if the results did not meet expectations?


    Moreover, she wanted to win the championship relying on her own ability, not relying on the Huo Group.


    Therefore, she did not mention the studio and simply declined Shi Yue Master''s invitation.


    "Alright then. If you want toe to Jin Xiu Fang in the future, you cane find me."


    Shi Yue Master sighed regretfully, feeling it was a pity to miss such a good seedling!

 Chapter 250: He鈥檚 Going on a Business Trip

    <h4>Chapter 250</h4>


    "Thank you Grandmaster Shi, I will if needed."


    Rong Dai stood up with a smile.


    Grandmaster Shi Yue had already made it clear, Rong Dai did not want to, so she certainly did not want to keep talking.


    "I look forward to your arrival, this is my business card."


    Grandmaster Shi Yue smiled kindly and handed her a simple but very textured business card.


    Rong Dai took it with a smile and nodded her head, then bid farewell to the grandfather and granddaughter before going home with the vegetables.


    After Rong Dai had walked away, Shi Ning looked at Grandmaster Shi Yue tentatively and asked, "Granny really wants her to join thepany? But she is Huo Shao Ting''s wife, the Huo family''s status..."


    She was very hesitant, seeming worried, but only she herself knew her true thoughts.


    Thinking of that man Huo Shao Ting, as noble as an emperor, she sighed slightly in her heart.


    If she had taken the initiative back then, with Granny''s rtionship with Madam Huo, would it have been different?


    She just didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to get married so soon, and to marry not some rich man''s daughter.


    It was precisely because Rong Dai was not some rich man''s daughter that she felt a little ufortable.


    And she had seen the news about Rong Dai, she could not imagine how a man like Huo Shao Ting could ept such a woman?


    Shi Ning was raised by Grandmaster Shi Yue, so she certainly knew her granddaughter''s personality well.


    She could guess Shi Ning''s intentions in asking this.


    She looked at her granddaughter with calm, rippling eyes, and sighed softly, "You are still young and cannot see Rong Dai''s value."


    "She is only in her early twenties, yet has such amazing embroidery skills. How many years have you studied embroidery to achieve what you can do today? But her talent is absolutely astonishing."


    "If she coulde to the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, she would definitely change thepany. It''s a pity that the girl is with the Huo family, otherwise this old bag of bones might still have a chance."


    Grandmaster Shi Yue sighed lightly and shook her head, feeling very regretful.


    On the surface, Shi Ning was calm, but there was a turbulent wave in her heart.


    She secretly clenched her fists. She would feel more convinced if Rong Dai was some young miss of a prominent family.


    But instead she was nothing, yet attracted such high regard from Granny with discerning eyes. She really could not ept it.


    "Let''s go. You have to work hard too. Thepany is not doing well now. If you don''t aplish something, it will be hard for Granny to speak for you in thepany."


    Grandmaster Shi Yue knew she was not convinced, but she had to do this.


    She hoped her granddaughter would take her teachings to heart. If Rong Dai could join thepany, it might stimte this child. The Brocade Embroidery Workshop might still have another way forward.


    Shi Ning''s face was calm, but her heart was turbulent.


    She supported Grandmaster Shi Yue and nodded obediently, "Mm..."


    The grandmother and granddaughter then left the pavilion.


    When Rong Dai got home, she nced at the time and was about to wash vegetables and cook when she heard a messagee in on her phone. She picked it up to check.


    Seeing it was Huo Shao Ting''s reply, she quickly replied back, then happily went to cook with peace of mind.


    Not long after Rong Dai served dinner, the sky darkened and Huo Shao Ting also returned home.


    Seeing the warm light in the house, his heart softened.


    This feeling of being waited for to return home, it was so nice.


    "You''re back!"


    Hearing the sound, Rong Dai wiped her hands dry, took off her apron and hung it up before walking over to him.


    After changing his shoes, Huo Shao Ting hugged her by the slender waist and kissed her, gazing at her, "I wanted to get off work early ande back to see you sooner, every second apart felt like eternity."


    Rong Dai smiled at his teasing. She blinked coquettishly at him, "Go wash your hands for dinner."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded and let her go to wash his hands.


    The couple enjoyed dinner together and watched the lights outsidee on.


    Although it was quiet, their hearts were especially warm.


    The couple sat on the sofa. Huo Shao Ting held her. The TV was on in the living room. Since the New Year, the two had not been so rxed.


    But Rong Dai was sensitive. She looked up at his chin and softly asked, "Is there something you want to tell me?"


    Huo Shao Ting tightened his arms around her and lowered his head to kiss her forehead. He paused for a few seconds before answering her, "Some goods of thepany were detained overseas. Huo Second Uncle''s people did it, but I need to go resolve it."


    Hearing him say this, Rong Dai immediately understood. Her heart suddenly tightened with a little worry as she asked him, "Will it be dangerous?"


    Although Huo Second Uncle was still paralyzed in bed, Huo Shao Qian had not given up.


    In her past life, she had seen many such struggles between heirs of family ns.


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly at her, stroking her hair with one hand, his voice gentle, "There won''t be any danger. It''s just that those goods have some impact on thepany. And I want to deal with those people as soon as possible. Otherwise thepany could just send an executive to resolve it well."


    Hearing his exnation, Rong Dai was instantly relieved. But her heart was wrapped in a thick reluctance.


    The two had been together for so long, yet it was always brief meetings and long separations.


    She had finally returned to Shengjing. Guohou''s side didn''t need her for publicity activities for the time being. She had thought they could spend more time together originally.


    "I''ll be back very soon, at most half a month, or as fast as five or six days."


    Huo Shao Ting was also reluctant. If not for her work, he would have definitely brought her along.


    Rong Dai nodded. Leaning in his arms, she gazed at him. Her hands took the initiative to climb onto his shoulders as she extended an inviting tone.


    Huo Shao Ting was naturally happy to ept her invitation.


    That night, the couple was extremely unrestrained. The living room and bedroom bore traces of their passion. Rong Dai was exhausted to the point she fell straight asleep.


    When she woke up in the morning, Huo Shao Ting was no longer by her side. Her heart couldn''t help but feel a little lost.


    Recently she had gotten used to opening her eyes in the morning and seeing Huo Shao Ting next to her. This sudden absence made her feel very sad.


    Thinking of the work to submit for the TK fashion show, she got out of bed feeling a little disheartened.


    After washing up, she was going to eat some breakfast before starting work, but saw Huo Shao Ting had left breakfast for her in the thermos in the kitchen, along with a note he left behind.


    Seeing his thoughtful reminders, Rong Dai''s mood immediately brightened up. She finished his prepared breakfast in one go before energetically starting work.


    After Rong Dai prepared all her work tools, she took out her phone and muted it. She also left a message for Lu Nianzhi. She thought for a bit before sending Huo Shao Ting a message.


    She had assumed Huo Shao Ting should have already boarded his ne. Just seconds after sending her message, Huo Shao Ting''s call came in.


    "Hello..." she drew out the syblezily.


    But to Huo Shao Ting, it was the most beautiful sound.


    They had just been apart for not long, yet he already missed her so crazily.


    He looked down, sitting in the airport VIP lounge, and said lightly, "Wife, I miss you..."

 Chapter 251: Ask Her To Help

    <h4>Chapter 251</h4>


    Rong Dai heard a scalding sensation in her heart, and softly responded to him, "I miss you too, Shao Ting. Come back soon, I''ll be waiting for you at home."


    She had never imagined that she would have such experiences in this life, and would meet a man who made her so concerned.


    Huo Shao Ting responded before reluctantly hanging up the phone.


    Although he had just left, he felt as if he had been away from her for a century.


    Rong Dai stared at her phone screen for a long time before she came back to her senses, with sweet smiles in her eyes. She then went back to work.


    The embroidery work was intricate and meticulous for ordinary people.


    However, for Rong Dai, it was a pleasure.


    She was very familiar with every base pattern, and embroidery had be ingrained in her bones. Once she got busy, she would forget about time.


    As lunchtime approached, she showed no sign of stopping because the TK fashion show timeline was tight. She waspletely focused on her work.


    Lu Nianzhi stood at the gate of her courtyard and rang the doorbell for a long time before Rong Dai came down.


    "I''m really sorry, I didn''t hear it."


    When Rong Dai saw Lu Nianzhi''s cheeks flushed red from the cold after opening the door, she hurriedly let her in.


    Lu Nianzhi sighed lightly. She had seen Rong Dai''s serious working style before, so she didn''t say much. Instead, she handed over the lunchbox to her.


    "I knew you would forget to eat when you got busy. People are not machines, we need proper meals to function well andplete work properly. At the very least, you need to learn to take good care of your body."


    Rong Dai took the lunchbox and nodded with a smile.


    "Okay, you keep working, I have to go now. There are still some formalities to deal with at thepany. By the way, will you be able to spare some time during the Lantern Festival?"


    Lu Nianzhi had her hands in her pants pockets, looking stylish and capable.


    "Won''t youe in and sit down?" Rong Dai asked when she saw that Lu Nianzhi didn''t intend toe in. After seeing Lu Nianzhi shake her head and look at her watch, she answered her question.


    "Is there an event?"


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, "There is a private cocktail party. TK''s person in charge, Ha Wei, will be there. I think even if we are not selected, it doesn''t hurt to get acquainted. This cocktail party is hosted by my friend. If you want to go, I can arrange it."


    After thinking about it briefly, Rong Dai nodded in agreement. "No problem."


    Only then did Lu Nianzhi leave. Rong Dai had her lunch and took a short break before continuing with her work.


    In the evening, she received a message from Huo Shao Ting saying that his ne hadnded.


    After the couple expressed their longing for each other, Huo Shao Ting had to hang up reluctantly to deal with some matters in advance.


    After finishing some minor tasks, Rong Dai then washed up and prepared to rest.


    However, lying in the big bed, she just couldn''t fall asleep.


    At the film and television city, she could basically fall asleep as soon as she hit the bed because the filming tired her out.


    But tonight she had insomnia. The environment of Mount Huafo was tranquil. The warm yellow bedsidemp was on as she looked at the ceiling, with Huo Shao Ting''s figure filling her mind.


    After quietly spending more than ten minutes this way, she really couldn''t stand it. She picked up her phone and flipped through Huo Shao Ting''s photos in her album over and over again. She was wide awake instead of getting sleepy.


    She deeply understood what it meant to miss someone like a surging tide.


    Just as she was looking at the photos intently, a message suddenly popped up from Qiao Wanzhou.


    She hadn''t contacted Qiao Wanzhou since parting in the film and television city. Now it was already ten o''clock at night.


    Qiao Wanzhou sent her a line: Are you sleeping? Are you free now?


    Rong Dai thought about it and replied to her.


    She had been too busy recently. Although she was wary of Qiao Wanzhou, they got acquainted at the film and television city. Also, the Qiao family and the Huo family were somewhat rted. She was about to take over the duties of the Huo family''sdy of the house.


    For both personal and logical reasons, she should make time to see Old Lady Qiao.


    After thinking about it, she sent over, "How is Granny Qiao?"


    Thest time she saw Old Lady Qiao, she knew her health was not good. The olddy had been hospitalized before the New Year, and there was still no news so far, so she assumed there was no major issue for the time being.


    Her message had just been sent for a few seconds when Qiao Wanzhou quickly responded that Old Lady Qiao was now living on nutritional fluids in the hospital and could leave the mortal world at any time.


    Life was impermanent, and life even more so.


    Rong Dai simply wished her well, without any words offort. Sometimesfort didn''t help.


    But she was very curious why Qiao Wanzhou had messaged her sote without saying anything, which made her a little puzzled.


    Seeing the line "The other party is typing..." on WeChat, but no messageing through for a long time, she frowned slightly.


    Rong Dai: Has something happened?


    Qiao Wanzhou was not the kind of person who casually troubled others. Messaging her sote must mean something was up.


    Sure enough, a few seconds after she sent this message, Qiao Wanzhou quickly sent her a voice message.


    When she heard what Qiao Wanzhou said, she frowned slightly. Before she could think of how to reply, Qiao Wanzhou''s call came in.


    She hesitated for two seconds before answering.


    "Rong Dai, I know this will put you in a difficult position, but I really can''t get away. I''m being tailed by paparazzi all the time now, probably because I was being watched in the film and television city. Zhou Jing doesn''t have many people around him. He''s a bit of a loner. I...I''m worried about him. I don''t have anyone I can trust, the only one I trust is you."


    "He''s in the hospital now. I can''t get through to his phone. I...please help me check on him okay? I''ll exin it to Mr. Huo."


    Before Rong Dai could speak, Qiao Wanzhou''s tearful voice came through.


    The suppressed anxiety and panic in her voice was heart-wrenching to hear.


    Rong Dai had not intended to get involved in such matters, but Qiao Wanzhou''s tearful pleading voice begged her not to refuse.


    She knew about the feelings between these two, but onlookers could not really help them.


    "Okay, I''ll help you check on him, but just this once."


    She agreed after hesitating for a few seconds.


    Over the phone, Qiao Wanzhou was overjoyed and kept thanking her.


    "Qiao... Sister Wanzhou, I think some things can''t be solved by avoidance. Take good care of yourself, I''ll message you after I go check on him."


    Qiao Wanzhou immediately acknowledged and told her the hospital address before the two hung up.


    Rong Dai nced at the time on her phone screen and sighed softly.


    She decided to first message Huo Shao Ting about it.


    She was now a married woman. Even though she had promised Qiao Wanzhou, going to visit somee at night, and a male at that, was not something she would keep from Huo Shao Ting.


    She had deeply learned from her mistakes in her previous life and knew well the damage misunderstandings could do to a rtionship.

 Chapter 252: Hot Search Again

    <h4>Chapter 252</h4>


    After she sent the message, Huo Shao Ting, who was across the ocean dealing with things at the moment, did not respond immediately to her message.


    Rong Dai guessed he might not have seen it yet. She got out of bed, put on her robe, and went to the kitchen to make porridge. Then she opened Weibo and looked at the hot search topics of the day.


    Sure enough.


    Zhou Jing was in a car ident.


    Four eye-catching words immediately became a hot search term.


    She clicked in to read the news. The ident scene was very shocking. It made her heart skip a beat seeing it.


    No wonder Qiao Wanzhou was so nervous. Right now, whether Zhou Jing was dead or alive was unknown.


    Thinking of how proud and excellent a person like Qiao Wanzhou was, yet she loved so humbly and carefully in romance, Rong Dai couldn''t help but sigh softly.


    She turned off her phone, went to change clothes, brought out the freshly cooked hot porridge in a thermos, grabbed her keys and scarf, and then took a taxi to the hospital.


    When Rong Dai arrived at the hospital, she instinctively used her scarf to cover half of her face, because she saw many paparazzi squatting there.


    She had deeply experienced how frightening these entertainment journalists could be. Although it waste at night, there were still many peopleing to the hospital for treatment.


    With the new year, many had upset stomachs from eating poorly, so she blended into the crowds and entered the hospital.


    Once inside, she opened up her chat history with Qiao Wanzhou and found Zhou Jing''s manager''s number. She called it.


    When Zhou Jing''s manager received her call, he was very surprised.


    "Come over here first. There are lots of paparazzi outside. If you''re photographed, it would be very detrimental to you."


    The manager knew well how powerful those tabloid keyboards could be, turning white into ck.


    Moreover, Rong Daiing for ate night visit, who knew what they might write?


    Rong Dai nodded and followed him into a private hospital room, where there were also bodyguards standing guard outside.


    Upon entering the hospital room, Rong Dai saw Zhou Jing lying there with a ster cast on his leg and gauze wrapped around his face. He still hadn''t woken up yet, so the severity of his injuries couldn''t be seen.


    She set the thermos down and looked at Zhou Jing with knitted brows. "How could this happen?"


    She remembered when she had left the entertainment city, Zhou Jing had still been hale and hearty. In the blink of an eye, he was now lying in a hospital bed.


    Zhou Jing''s manager looked at Zhou Jing on the bed and shook his head with a very helpless sigh.


    "He was rushing to go see Madam Qiao''s mother."


    The manager was very clear about his artist''s feelings.


    Even he as the manager couldn''t make heads or tails of the romantic entanglements between these two.


    "I had arranged for someone to take him there. His schedule has been packed back-to-back with events, precisely to free up time to go to Shengjing to visit the olddy."


    "He hadn''t rested for two days. By the time we got to Shengjing and I went to handle other things, he took off first by himself to go see her. Who would''ve thought..."


    The manager was very helpless about it.


    Rong Dai furrowed her brows, also not knowing what to say.


    Recalling the photo on Weibo of the smashed up car, she couldn''t help asking, "Will the news have any impact on him?"


    Although she didn''t understand the traffic rules here, from thements she saw fromizens, it seemed Zhou Jing would be fully responsible.


    Driving while fatigued and running a red light.


    He would surely bear legal responsibility for that. And Zhou Jing was also a public figure.


    She was well aware of how sharp those online keyboard warriors could be. Even with Zhou Jing''s dazzling aplishments now, he still had antifans.


    "These things...thepany will handle the PR. It''s just that this time, it may impact his future prospects. His face..."


    The manager shook his head and sighed. To him, Zhou Jing was actually someone he felt at ease about.


    Since his debut, Zhou Jing had steadily built up his foundation and skills through hard work. As long as thepany''s arrangements were reasonable, he would cooperate.


    Such artists were rare these days.


    But this car ident was very serious. Although Zhou Jing had temporarily escaped mortal danger, when the manager had rushed to the scene and saw Zhou Jing''s face covered in blood, he had been extremely worried.


    Appearance was extremely important for a public artist.


    Hearing the manager say this, Rong Dai''s heart also thudded.


    When Zhou Jing had been perfect, he had still been so insecure.


    If his face were to be injured now, she really had no way to imagine what would happen between him and Qiao Wanzhou.


    A peaceful death was the lightest fate.


    "Mrs. Huo, it''s gettingte and there are lots of paparazzi outside. The news of Zhou Jinging out of emergency surgery hasn''t been released yet, so there will still be lots of them tonight. You should head back and rest early. Thank you foring to see him. If he wakes up, I''ll let you know."


    The manager nced at the time. Back at the entertainment city, he had also greatly admired Rong Dai, who was both a neer and a madame of a prestigious household.


    Rong Dai also understood the manager''s concerns. She was also really afraid of those entertainment journalists and didn''t want to end up trending online, much less give outsiders a chance to malign her rtionship with Huo Shao Ting.


    She nodded and thought to ask, "Can I take a photo for Miss Qiao? She''s very worried."


    Zhou Jing''s manager nodded. After Rong Dai took two pictures, she left the hospital through the back entrance under his arrangement.


    As Rong Dai sat in the taxi, she didn''t notice the camera in the bushes on one side that was aimed right at her.


    She lowered her head looking at her phone, the scarf also sagging down, and her face was photographed very clearly.


    She sent the pictures of Zhou Jing to Qiao Wanzhou. Qiao Wanzhou immediately called back.


    Rong Dai didn''t answer right away, but instead hung up and sent a message.


    She was in a taxi right now, so of course she couldn''t take Qiao Wanzhou''s call.


    Looking out at the retreating neon lights through the car window, Rong Dai felt very conflicted.


    Such a vibrant person, an ident coulde just like that, even without any forewarning.


    In her long period of rebirth, this was not the first time she had experienced the impermanence of life.


    Thinking of Zhou Jing lying unconscious in the hospital bed, she couldn''t help but miss Huo Shao Ting.


    It was precisely because of life''s unpredictability that one should cherish every reunion, every moment together, and not let misunderstandings or unhappy things take up too much of the limited time.


    She caressed her phone, her thoughts drifting very far away.


    After returning to Huafu Hill City, she wasn''t sleepy. She spoke with Qiao Wanzhou on the phone, listening to Qiao Wanzhou''s uncontroble sobbing on the other end. Rong Dai didn''t try tofort her, only listening quietly.


    Sometimes, words could be profoundly emotional yet also powerless.


    "Thank you, Rong Dai... I''ll treat you to a meal another day. It''s sote and I still bothered you."


    Qiao Wanzhou was not an irrational person. After crying for a bit, she spoke in a choked up voice.


    After Rong Dai responded, the two hung up.


    She nced at the time. The call hadsted half an hour. It was almost 1 AM now.


    After drinking the warm water in her ss, she was about to go rest when Lu Nianzhi''s call came in.


    "Sister Nianzhi, you''re not asleep yet sote?"


    Unexpectedly, Lu Nianzhi''s solemn voice came through the phone, "Did you just go to the hospital to see Zhou Jing?"


    Hearing her ask this, Rong Dai''s heart thudded. She knew what she had been most worried about had happened after all. She hurriedly grabbed her tablet and opened the news to look.


    Sure enough, she had been put back on the hot search trends again. The paparazzi had even emphasized the word te night"...

 Chapter 253: The Humble of Qiao Wanzhou

    <h4>Chapter 253</h4>


    Because of this news, her profile was photographed very clearly. She couldn''t defend herself even if she wanted to.


    Rong Dai frowned and told Lu Nianzhi about it. She had been cautious enough, but didn''t expect to still be photographed.


    After listening to her exnation, Lu Nianzhi felt helpless, but also knew that since it had already happened, she could only try her best to do PR.


    Originally,izens already had a lot of opinions about Rong Dai because of previous scandals.


    And Zhou Jing had been in the industry for so many years. The quality of his work was beyond doubt, although some scandals had alsoe out.


    But he kept a low profile, and those scandals disappeared after not too long.


    But this time was different. This time Rong Dai was photographed so clearly by the entertainment journalists, and the words they used were so ambiguous.


    It was obviously deliberately using Rong Dai for consumption.


    "I''ll take care of this. Don''t worry about anything else. By the way, no one knows you live in Huafu Mountain Town, right?"


    Lu Nianzhi asked her. She had to figure out the situation before she could handle this properly.


    "Except for the Huo family and you, no one else knows."


    Rong Dai''s voice was also filled with helplessness.


    She was just helping Qiao Wanzhou go to the hospital to see Zhou Jing, but as soon as she turned around, the media wrote it like this.


    Although they didn''t spell it out in ck and white that she and Zhou Jing had something going on, this world has nevercked people with rich imagination.


    In the eyes of theseizens, she had be unchaste and unrestrained, just because she went to the hospital to visit someone.


    Rong Dai looked at thesements without any ripples in her heart. She only cared if Huo Shaoting would misunderstand her because of what she did.


    Although that man was extremely good to her, even to the bone.


    But she was still worried and uneasy.


    Although she had let go of the past life, those experiences were still imprinted in her bones.


    Once misunderstandings arise once or twice, when they happen many times, even the clearest exnations be numb.


    She didn''t want to agree to Qiao Wanzhou''s request at first, but thinking that Zhou Jing had saved her on set, she should have gone to visit him out of personal and moral obligation.


    She only regarded Zhou Jing as a senior worth learning from, but in the eyes of theseizens, she had be unchaste and unrestrained.


    She was in no hurry to speak out online. She believed in Lu Nianzhi''s abilities.


    After turning off the tablet, she was going to rest. She still had work to do and couldn''t waste time on these things.


    Just as she returned to the bedroom, she received a call from Qiao Wanzhou.


    "Rong Dai, I''m really sorry. If I hadn''t asked you for help, this wouldn''t have happened."


    On the phone, Qiao Wanzhou''s tone was full of self-reproach.


    Rong Dai sighed lightly, "It''s not your fault, it was me who wasn''t careful enough."


    Qiao Wanzhou on the phone still sounded choked up. Obviously she had cried again after hanging up the phone with Rong Dai earlier.


    Thinking of Qiao Wanzhou, Rong Dai feltplicated.


    Everyone saw the brilliance on Qiao Wanzhou, but no one noticed the sorrow behind her.


    Even when liking someone, she had to be so humble.


    "I''ll get my agent to do PR. This has nothing to do with you. I was the one who asked you for help in the first ce. If this causes any misunderstanding between you and Mr. Huo, I''ll feel terrible."


    Qiao Wanzhou didn''t speak very fast, but Rong Dai could tell she was a little angry.


    Of course this wasn''t directed at Rong Dai herself, it was probably directed at the sneaky entertainment journalists.


    "It''s okay. My sister will handle it well. Don''t get anyone to deal with it, otherwise this will be impossible to exin clearly."


    Rong Dai''s voice was calm. She didn''t care what thoseizens said or how they vilified her.


    She only cared about what Huo Shaoting thought and felt. How others saw her didn''t matter to her.


    But Qiao Wanzhou didn''t immediately respond. She seemed to be hesitating about something.


    Rong Dai didn''t know what she was hesitating about. Looking at the time, it was already 2am.


    "...Rong Dai, there''s something I want to discuss with you."


    A few secondster, Qiao Wanzhou''s voice finally came through on the phone.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s voice suddenly became solemn and a little uneasy.


    "Go ahead."


    Rong Dai''s brows were still furrowed. Although she didn''t know exactly what was going through Qiao Wanzhou''s mind, she knew that when a woman loved a man to the point of humility, she would do anything.


    Qiao Wanzhou wasn''t very old, but she wasn''t very young either.


    But her background was different. Although she had achieved some sess in the entertainment industry over the years, her family would never allow her to do this for the rest of her life.


    Even if Qiao Wanzhou didn''t say it, Rong Dai could tell from her past life experiences that Qiao Wanzhou was under tremendous pressure from her family.


    "This will hurt you, but I promise I will personally exin it to Mr. Huo."


    Qiao Wanzhou started. This idea had just urred to her.


    Originally she wasn''t sure, but thinking about what his family forced him to say in front of his dying grandmother at the hospital.


    She felt both sad and unwilling.


    "I... I want to get an answer from Zhou Jing, so I hope you can leak our conversation this time."


    Qiao Wanzhou struggled to get the words out.


    She hadn''t discussed this with her agent, but she knew what it meant.


    It meant her career would be hindered and cause great loss to thepany.


    After all, ever since her debut, her image had always been that of a pure, hardworking person.


    Rong Dai was also shocked. She didn''t expect Qiao Wanzhou to be willing to give up so much for Zhou Jing.


    So what if Qiao Wanzhou achieved what she had today?


    Even great people can still be overwhelmed by maliciousments.


    Moreover, there was never a shortage of people who kick others when they''re down in that circle.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s decision reminded her of her past self��hadn''t she also given up everything for the Emperor?


    But in the end it was a bloody lesson!


    "Wanzhou, I hope you think it through clearly. Doing this is equivalent to giving up your career."


    She spoke heavily and solemnly to warn Qiao Wanzhou.

 Chapter 254: I Have Conditions

    <h4>Chapter 254</h4>


    On the other end of the phone, Rong Dai heard Qiao Wanzhou''s self-mocking, shallowugh.


    "Rong Dai, thank you," Qiao Wanzhou sighed and said, "Actually, he was the reason I entered this circle. From the first moment I saw him, I couldn''t forget him."


    "Although I was also rebellious and unwilling to be a sacrifice for the family, but more was because of him."


    "If it wasn''t for him, I think my life would have just followed the pattern set by my family or parents, living numbly."


    Rong Dai quietly listened to her speak. Although it was alreadyte, sleeping soundly tonight was impossible anyway.


    Sheid in bed, leaning against the headboard, turned on the speakerphone, and ced it on the quilt to listen to Qiao Wanzhou speak.


    "I liked him for many years. Rong Dai, you''re now President Huo''s wife, so I think you''ll understand the helplessness of these families."


    "In Shenjing, few people can be as free and easy as President Huo. The marriages and freedoms of us children are all set by the family, with no power to choose."


    "I won''t talk about that anymore. I just want to get a clear answer from Zhou Jing. This dangling is really tiring me..."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s tone was full of mncholy and anxiety.


    She had waited too long. She understood his lowliness.


    But she had also given him a clear answer.


    However, Zhou Jing always acted like he didn''t care. Yet whenever something happened to her, he would definitely stand in front of her.


    Rong Dai was very clear on the pain of loving someone but not getting a response.


    Qiao Wanzhou was very frank. She could have easily done this behind her back.


    To control how things developed, even if she found out afterwards, she would still cooperate with her to rify things, resentful as she may feel.


    Thinking back to when she first saw Qiao Wanzhou''s versatility and poprity at the Qiao family, then looking at her current lowly state.


    Rong Dai suddenly felt very distressed.


    She thought for a few seconds before replying to her, "Okay, I can help you."


    "Thank you, Rong Dai. I will definitelye to exin things clearly to President Huo in person afterwards."


    Qiao Wanzhou was very anxious for Rong Dai''s reply. Hearing her answer so clearly, she almost cried.


    "Don''t rush to thank me yet. I''m helping you on one condition," Rong Dai replied.


    "Just say it. As long as you help me, I can do yourundry and cooking!" Qiao Wanzhou swore.


    "No need forundry and cooking. You should be very clear on the consequences of doing this. It''s very likely all your previous efforts will go up in smoke," Rong Dai warned her.


    She believed that for an ordinary person to reach Qiao Wanzhou''s level was truly difficult.


    Yet for Zhou Jing, she was willing to give it all up.


    Qiao Wanzhou was silent for a few seconds on the phone before sighing deeply, "The worst oue is me leaving this circle, obeying the family''s arrangements, going on blind dates and getting married, living numbly."


    Her tone was full of sadness, as if she was already living such a life.


    "Whether you leave the circle or not will probably depend on what your agency thinks. But damage is certain, plus with your approach, given Zhou Jing''s personality, I don''t think you have great odds of sess."


    Rong Dai analyzed for her.


    She believed in her ability to read people. If Zhou Jing couldn''t get out of his own lowliness, even if Qiao Wanzhou smashed his protective shell and bled for it, only Qiao Wanzhou would be the one injured.


    "I''ve thought it through. Without him, even if I achieve greater sess, that joy wouldn''t belong to me."


    Qiao Wanzhou sighed heavily. Thinking of Zhou Jing, her heart felt like it was being cut by a dull knife, more and more painful each time.


    "Alright then. I can do that, but my condition is you be the brand spokesperson for me," Rong Dai said.


    She had just thought of it. She wanted to start her own brand and needed someone very famous to be the spokesperson.


    Qiao Wanzhou had a great image and some poprity domestically and abroad.


    Even if Qiao Wanzhou''s career declined this time, her fame was already there.


    Wasn''t there an online saying?


    ck or red, it''s still red.


    Plus she had faith in what she could create.


    Time and quality would make everything clear.


    "No problem at all! I agree, lifetime endorsement, not a cent charged."


    Qiao Wanzhouughed as she replied, but her tone was exceptionally firm, not joking at all.


    "That won''t do. Lifetime endorsement is eptable, but not a cent charged is not."


    Rong Dai alsoughed in response.


    "But with this made public, my reputation will suffer. Aren''t you afraid it''ll negatively impact your brand?"


    Hearing Rong Dai say this, Qiao Wanzhou''s heart softened even more.


    She had struggled in this circle, developing a full suit of armor. No one understood the cruelty here better than her.


    "I believe in my judgement, and I believe in my work."


    Rong Dai''s reply was confident.


    "Rong Dai, thank you."


    Qiao Wanzhou paused for a few seconds, sincerely thanking her.


    She hadn''t actually known Rong Dai for long. It was only because Rong Dai was President Huo''s wife that she had some interest at first sight.


    During filming, she saw her past self in Rong Dai.


    "Don''t thank me yet. Once my news breaks, you have to handle things on your end to avoid harm."


    Rong Dai reminded her. After confirming the time with her, she hung up.


    She softly sighed, looking at the top trending headline on Weibo. Her Weibo had already been overrun.


    Whether it was people smearing her or Zhou Jing''s fans, they had cursed her Weibo beyond recognition.


    Rong Dai just sneered. She called Lu Nianzhi and ryed Qiao Wanzhou''s request.


    "This allows you to temporarily detach from the news, but afterwards, you may face more condemnation because you can''t say this was at Qiao Wanzhou''s request."


    Lu Nianzhi''s thoughts were clear. As soon as Rong Dai finished, she realized the crux of the issue.


    Of course Rong Dai also knew this. Qiao Wanzhou had already told her everything.


    She had weighed all of this. She wasn''t some saint or overly sympathetic.


    Qiao Wanzhou could bring her benefits, so she could resolve things for Qiao Wanzhou. This was a mutually beneficial matter.


    After hearing Rong Dai''s exnation, Lu Nianzhi also approved of her approach.


    After hanging up with Lu Nianzhi, Rong Dai saved screenshots of her conversation with Qiao Wanzhou. Facing the torrent of abuse on Weibo, she said nothing, only posting the screenshots.

 Chapter 255: The Last Time

    <h4>Chapter 255</h4>


    After Rong Dai posted those screenshots, Weibo was paralyzed within minutes.


    Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou.


    These two people were powerhouses in the entertainment industry, and both had high name recognition domestically and abroad.


    Not to mention, the quality of both of their work was undisputed. However, the number of coborative works between them was few and far between. They didn''t even follow each other on Weibo, let alone interact at all.


    Therefore, even if the two were former schoolmates, fans with wild imaginations could never have guessed things would unfold this way.


    On Weibo, someizens watched the drama while eating melon seeds, but the vast majority didn''t buy it.


    Even with the ck and white chat screenshotsid out inly, those who liked to bash Rong Dai continued to do so.


    In short, now that she, Rong Dai, had flown up to a high branch and turned into a phoenix, she should keep a low profile. She shouldn''t unt herself everywhere making "trouble".


    Otherwise, everything she did and said was wrong.


    Moreover, although some of Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou''s fans believed it, the vast majority didn''t want the two to get together, because their personalities and backgrounds were too different.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s fans looked down on Zhou Jing, while Zhou Jing''s fans mocked Qiao Wanzhou for shamelessly fawning over him.


    In summary, the rhetoric online was very chaotic, with all kinds of opinions.


    As Rong Dai browsed Weibo, she felt extremely calm inside.


    With a lifetime of experience under her belt, she had a surprisingly good attitude when facing the toxicments fromizens.


    Unconsciously, she had been scrolling through Weibo past three o''clock, still with no news from Huo Shao Ting.


    She was worried and a little anxious, but also afraid to disturb his work. So she just held her phone, looking at the vicious attacks fromizens online, and fell into a daze.


    This night was destined to be not peaceful.


    Because Rong Dai had gone to visit Zhou Jing, then posted the chat screenshots afterwards, the hospital Zhou Jing was staying at was now surrounded inside and out by the paparazzi.


    In her room, Qiao Wanzhou sat with questioning and reprimands from her parents outside her door.


    She turned a deaf ear, only browsing thements on Weibo.


    She hadn''t checked her fanmunity in a long time. Seeing a few diehard fans in there also cursing Zhou Jing, she suddenly felt a sense of powerlessness.


    No one looked favorably on them.


    She just wanted a clear answer, whether it was what she hoped for or the worst oue.


    She just wanted an answer.


    Even if it meant she had to give up, she wanted her heart to be clearly heartbroken.


    She didn''t want her decades of longing to end up a pile of shit.


    Looking at the fans fiercely cursing in themunity, she finally spoke up.


    As soon as she spoke, the entire fanmunity exploded! After all, it was rare for an idol to show up in person.


    "I love Zhou Jing."


    "I fell in love with him many years ago. I entered the entertainment industry not just because of my family background, but more so because of him."


    "If you like me and are willing to support me, please also be kind in what you say about him."


    "If you don''t like it, please leave. I won''t stop you."


    "This is my choice, as well as my personal feelings."


    "All these years, I think I''ve never let you down on screen."


    "This time, I want to be willful once more, and it will be thest time in my life."


    After she sent her words, the fanmunity was silent for a full two minutes.


    Qiao Wanzhou watched as the number of people in the group decreased by one, two, three...


    In those two minutes, roughly forty to fifty people had left.


    She suddenly smiled, a heartbreaking smile on her beautiful face.


    The remaining fans allforted her, saying this was the idol''s choice, they loved her, so they chose to be supportive.


    Moreover, this wasn''t a big deal.


    Idols also had personal feelings and the right to like or dislike whoever they wanted.


    Seeing her fans'' words in the group, Qiao Wanzhou thanked them before exiting. She then opened up her chat history.


    Starting fromst night, her agent had nearly blown up her phone with calls.


    Nearly two hundred calls, and she hadn''t answered a single one.


    She thought for a bit before calling her agent back.


    "Wanzhou!"


    As soon as the call connected, her agent''s slightly exasperated yell came through.


    Qiao Wanzhou was prepared, holding the phone far away.


    After letting her agent finish her rant, she brought the phone closer and calmly said, "I had Rong Dai help me release those."


    "I knew Lady Huo wasn''t the kind of person who didn''t know her limits..."


    "Hear me out first," Qiao Wanzhou interrupted her agent before she could finish.


    "I''m really tired after all these years. I want an answer. Whether to give up or fulfill this love, just let my heart die a quick death."


    "Thepany side, I can terminate my contract and paypensation. I can afford it."


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke lightly, but exhaustion never before seen appeared on her beautiful face.


    She really was tired.


    Because she loved someone, she had followed in his footsteps, going everywhere he went.


    She thought her carefulness would move him, and they would finally be together.


    But one year, two years, three years passed. Five years, ten years passed.


    She really couldn''t wait any longer. She wasn''t sure how many more tens of years she had left, and whether she would still have the courage to keep waiting.


    This could be an endless wait that never had an answer.


    After listening to her, the agent was silent for a few seconds before letting out a long sigh.


    "Alright then, what do you want me to do for you? You know what the consequences will be, your future..."


    Qiao Wanzhou gave a faint smile, the smile looking grieved but also relieved.


    "It doesn''t matter anymore. Even without him, I don''t belong in this circle."


    The agent responded, discussing things with her before hanging up the phone.


    Seeing the rhetoric online, the agent felt a huge headacheing on, but also heartache for Qiao Wanzhou.


    No one knew better than her the amount of effort and sacrifice Qiao Wanzhou had made to achieve this level of sess. The pressure on her was no less than anyone else''s.


    After hanging up the call, Qiao Wanzhou sat motionless in the chair for a few minutes before getting up to pack her things and drag her suitcase to the door.


    "Wanzhou, are you still tangled up with that Zhou Jing? How can you be so disobedient? Are you trying to worry me to death?!"


    As soon as she opened the door, she was met with her mother''s barrage of reprimands!


    Her father''s face was also ugly. Back then, allowing their daughter to enter the entertainment industry was already their greatestpromise.


    After so many years, they thought that no matter what, those feelings should have faded after more than a decade.


    But who knew that in the end, news like this woulde out!


    Qiao Wanzhou looked at the two people before her, so close in blood but who had pushed her to the cliff''s edge, with a calm yet cold expression.


    Both unfamiliar yet familiar.


    "Mom, Dad, this is thest time. If...he gives me a clear answer, and the answer isn''t what I want, I promise to go along with whatever arrangements you have for me."


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke calmly, but her heart felt like it was being chopped up by knives, like mincing meat stuffing.


    So painful she even felt pain breathing.

 Chapter 256: No one can beat Me but you

    <h4>Chapter 256</h4>


    "You..." Joe''s mother was exasperated and clutched her own chest, her face was ashen.


    "Forgive your daughter for being unfilial. If I don''t do this, I will regret it for the rest of my life and forever feel remorse."


    Qiao Wanzhou looked at Joe''s parents with icy cold eyes. The obedient smile that had always been on her face turned icy cold.


    After speaking, she dragged her suitcase and left Joe''s home.


    Although the New Year had passed, the spring wind was still unusually cold.


    After leaving, Qiao Wanzhou sat in the car and realized that in this huge prosperous city, there was no ce for her to stay.


    With no other choice, she called Rong Dai again.


    She didn''t even understand why she trusted Rong Dai so much.


    Rong Dai gave her a sense of trust and reliance. She couldn''t help but want to get close to someone like this.


    Rong Dai didn''t sleep wellst night and had just gotten up. After washing up, she saw seven or eight missed calls on her phone, some from Huo Shao Ting and some from her mother-inw.


    She was about to call Huo Shao Ting back when Qiao Wanzhou''s call came in.


    "Sister Wanzhou, is there anything else?"


    To reassure Qiao Wanzhou, she had to change the casual "Miss Qiao" to "Sister Wanzhou."


    On the phone, Qiao Wanzhou hesitated a little, and her tone was apologetic, "...Rong Dai, I''m really sorry, this has nothing to do with you originally."


    "I left the Qiao family and have nowhere to go. Can e to your house? Or can you find a ce to shelter me for a while? Just a few days..."


    For the first time, Qiao Wanzhou realized how lonely she was.


    In order to chase after Zhou Jing, she had built her whole world around him, and lost herself.


    Rong Dai frowned.


    She was still busy with work, and the matter between Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing was at its most precarious point.


    Recalling when Qiao Wanzhou was drunk before, she was a little apprehensive.


    Other than taking care of Huo Shao Ting, she was not good at taking care of others.


    But thinking of the vicious words on Weibost night, and her experience from her previous life telling her that Qiao Wanzhou''s situation was very difficult right now.


    She couldn''t help sighing deeply in her heart, feeling very helpless and disgusted with herself.


    She had said she wouldn''t get involved in other people''s business, but here she was getting involved again.


    Helping Qiao Wanzhou twice already went against her principles.


    "Thene over, be low-key, don''t drive your own car. Tell me where you are and I''ll have Uncle Li pick you up."


    Rong Dai finally answered after a few seconds.


    "Thank you, Rong Dai. I really..."


    Qiao Wanzhou almost cried. She never thought there woulde a day when she would be so disheveled.


    "You can stay with me for a few days, but Shao Ting ising back, and I can arrange a ce for you to live. You need to resolve things with Senior Zhou, and I''m busy with work these days so I may not have time to apany you."


    Rong Dai clearlyid out her expectations upfront.


    Although she knew Qiao Wanzhou was not an unreasonable woman, sometimes when helping people, even with good intentions, things may not turn out as hoped, and she would end up working hard for no reward.


    She didn''t want to be the bad guy or waste her time on other people''s affairs.


    Helping Qiao Wanzhou three times already exceeded her principles.


    "I understand, thank you."


    Qiao Wanzhou nodded and replied to her, then gave her an address.


    After hanging up, Rong Dai didn''t hesitate to call Uncle Li.


    Just after ending the call with Uncle Li, Huo Shao Ting''s call came in.


    Seeing his call, Rong Dai immediately answered.


    "Still sleepy?"


    Huo Shao Ting sat in a chair, his handsome face looked tired, but when he spoke to her, his deep eyes were full of tenderness.


    "Not sleepy anymore. Are you okay? You should be sleeping at this time."


    Hearing his voice, Rong Dai''s heart inexplicably calmed down, and she softly asked him.


    "Mm, going to sleep soon, was worried about you so wanted to talk to you first."


    The man''s voice was light and clear. Even across thousands of miles, she could hear his deep longing and tenderness.


    After the husband and wife shared their longing for each other, Rong Dai briefly recounted what happenedst night.


    "You handle it well, I trust my wife''s capabilities."


    Of course Huo Shao Ting knew what was happening in Shenjing. Anything rted to his wife, no matter how small, he would take to heart.


    Since his wife thought Qiao Wanzhou was worth helping, as long as she was happy doing it, then go ahead and do it well.


    Even if she failed, he would still be behind her.


    "Don''t have any worries. Other than you, there is no one in this world who can defeat me. I only care about you, your happiness is more important than anything."


    Before Rong Dai could even voice her concerns, Huo Shao Ting seemed to foresee them and took the initiative to reassure her and set her mind at ease.


    "Don''t care what others say. As long as you think this is something you want to do, and won''t harm innocent people, then do it. I unconditionally support you, dear."


    Huo Shao Ting reassured her.


    Although his little woman was smart and calm, sometimes she seemed a bit cold and heartless.


    No one was born heartless. It was only because her passion had been frozen and shattered countless times that she became cold.


    She had a softer heart than anyone else.


    Rong Dai''s heart shuddered, and a warm feeling spread from her heart through her limbs and body. Her nose couldn''t help but turn slightly sour.


    The worries in her heart dissipated bit by bit.


    This man was always so gentle, always so considerate.


    The feeling of being trusted and cared for by someone resolved the discord from her past like a healing balm.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    Her fingers sping the phone tightened slightly as she looked down at the cup in her hand, tenderness and moved feelings intertwined in her beautiful eyes, extremely touching.


    "Come back soon, I''ll be waiting for you at home."


    "Mm, be sure to eat on time and rest well."


    Huo Shao Ting exhorted her, and the husband and wife reluctantly hung up.


    Looking at the now silent phone, longing surged in Rong Dai''s heart like the tides. She desperately wanted to lean against his chest, listen to his heartbeat, and feel the warmth of his body.


    It took a long time for the warmth and longing in her heart to subside. She remembered there were still missed calls from her mother-inw to return, so she immediately called back.


    When Lu Zheng answered her call, her mood was a bit unhappy.


    "Mother, I''m truly sorry I didn''t answer your callst night. I slept toote. Is there something going on? Do you need me toe back?"


    Rong Dai''s tone was very low when she spoke first, her attitude was very humble and sensible. Lu Zheng certainly couldn''t bring herself to scold her.


    In fact, Rong Dai knew why her mother-inw had called her.


    Her mother-inw was close friends with Qiao''s mother, and she had sent over screenshots from Weibost night.


    From her experience in her previous life, in addition to Zhou Jing''s own issues, the attitude of the Qiao family was also a reason why he was so insecure.


    A family background like the Qiaos certainly didn''t want someone like Zhou Jing as their son-inw.


    For Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing, who had never had any scandals before,st night''s news could at most be considered some stormy waves, not really a scandal.


    But for the Qiao family, it was a scandal. They were already very dissatisfied that Qiao Wanzhou entered the entertainment industry.


    Now there was also this entanglement with someone in the industry. Of course their mentality would copse.

 Chapter 257: Out of Use

    <h4>Chapter 257</h4>


    So for Qiao Wanzhou, making such a decision required tremendous courage.


    Qiao''s father and Qiao''s mother would be angry, and Qiao''s mother would call the mother-inw, which could be foreseen.


    So Rong Dai was mentally prepared, and she also had ways to resolve such a crisis.


    Although the mother-inw did not have Grandmother''s approval in the matter of the housekeeper, the mother-inw was not unreasonable or stupid either.


    The situation in the Qiao family wasplicated, and of course she was also unwilling to wade into these muddy waters, it was just that the cause of the matter was started by herself, and asking one or two questions was within reason.


    Sure enough, when she heard Rong Dai''s proper attitude, the anger suppressed in Lu Zheng''s heart also died down.


    "Do you know how much trouble you''ve caused? The situation in the Qiao family is veryplicated, Wanzhou is a rebellious child since she was little, and this time for such a person. For the Qiao family, losing face is a small matter, to put it bluntly, Wanzhou will lose her usefulness."


    "Our family is different from the Qiao family. The Qiao family has aplicated background. If Wanzhou loses her value, then her status in the Qiao family in the future..." Lu Zheng sighed, she was best friends with Qiao''s mother, but she also knew something about the Qiao family.


    Usually Qiao''s mother would alsoin to her, but she always justforted and never got involved.


    After all, these were the Qiao family''s personal affairs.


    "In the future, if you are the head of the household, you are still so reckless, beingughed at is the lightest, it will make the Huo Family suffer, and your own reputation will not sound good either."


    Lu Zheng admonished her solemnly. She was no different from Rong Dai at first.


    As a result, she only suffered before realizing that "kind intentions" could not be used casually at any time.


    Used improperly, the one who gets trapped is still herself.


    "Thank you, mom. However, there is more to this matter, I will exin it to you and Grandmother after the dust has settled. This will be thest time I do something like this."


    Rong Dai firmly promised.


    Helping Qiao Wanzhou was already a vition of her principles. Even if she and Qiao Wanzhou were intimate best friends, she still would not easily get involved in the other''s feelings.


    Even if bystanders can see clearly, the key still lies in how the person involved chooses.


    Recklessly interfering in other people''s affairs, even just making requests, if things don''t turn out as expected, bad luck and no favors gained would still fall on oneself in the end.


    Moreover, what the mother-inw reminded was right. Once she took over the power of managing the household from Old Madam, she would have to weigh things, she must put the Huo Family first.


    Helping others like this could only be thest time.


    The job of being head of the household was not easy to do well, especially in such aplicated environment, she had to think thrice before acting.


    "Alright, since you understand, I won''t say any more. Try not to get involved in the aftermath as much as possible."


    "Every family has a sutra that''s hard to recite. You can''t recite the sutra for others, it will cause dislike."


    "You''re also busy with work these days, spend more effort on your work. The olddy is getting on in years, you have to get familiar with managing the household as soon as possible."


    Lu Zheng didn''t reprimand her, but solemnly exhorted her and analyzed the situation with her.


    Rong Dai obediently responded. After hanging up the phone with the mother-inw, she also gave herself a wake-up call in her heart.


    By this time, Uncle Li had already sent Qiao Wanzhou over.


    Seeing Qiao Wanzhou dragging her suitcase, looking lifeless, Rong Dai couldn''t help but twitch her eyebrows.


    Sure enough, love could make one feel worse than death.


    "I... seem to be very disturbing to you."


    Looking at Rong Dai''s home, everything was so warm, with the smell of flowers in the air, Qiao Wanzhou felt a little uneasy.


    Rong Dai handed her a cup of warm water and gave her clean slippers.


    "Have a seat first. Fortunately, Shao Ting is on a business trip these days, otherwise I would have rejected your request."


    "Thank you."


    Qiao Wanzhou took the cup, she had been under a lot of pressure recently. Stripped of the glow of a celebrity, she was just an ordinary person.


    "Have you had breakfast? I was about to make some."


    Rong Dai was not good atforting people, because somefort was often the most useless.


    Qiao Wanzhou hurriedly put down her cup, looking at Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting''s cozy love nest, she felt a little bad about her abrupt request for help from Rong Dai.


    "Do you need my help? I... I can help you wash the vegetables."


    Rong Dai looked back at her with a faint smile on her delicate cheeks.


    "Make yourself at home since you''re already here. There is security patrolling here 24 hours a day. Peopleing in and out need to be registered, so there won''t be any problems."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s heart thumped uncertainly, but still rolled up her sleeves to help.


    Just as Rong Dai was about to go wash the vegetables and cook, the doorbell rang.


    "I''ll get it."


    Qiao Wanzhou said and went to open the door.


    Seeing her here, Lu Nianzhi was not surprised at all. She had already spoken to Huo Shao Ting on the phone earlier.


    "Sister Nianzhi, you haven''t eaten either, right? It''s just nice that we three can have lunch together."


    Rong Dai said when she saw it was Lu Nianzhi, then went into the kitchen.


    Lu Nianzhi looked at Qiao Wanzhou and took out a string of phone numbers from her phone for her to see.


    "Ms. Qiao, this is the phone number of the property manager of Huafu Hill City. In addition to the houses sold, Huafu Hill City also has two duplexes for rent."


    "Mr. Huo doesn''t like people intruding on his and his wife''s private life. This is their love nest. I think staying here would also be inconvenient for you."


    "Mr. Huo has already asked me to book a house for you. Toiletries and daily necessities have already been delivered. You can stay there with peace of mind."


    Qiao Wanzhou''s eyes lit up immediately: "There are duplexes for rent here too?"


    She had just realized when she went out earlier that she had nowhere to go, so she reluctantly made this call to Rong Dai.


    When she saw that this house was full of Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting''s living atmosphere, she felt very bad about her abrupt request.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded with a smile, "I just found out too. The duplexes were originally going to be sold, but given the location, you know, people would rather buy standalone houses than duplexes."


    "I just bought the upstairs too, it''ll be more convenient for work. The house Mr. Huo rented for you is right under my home. It''s just the two of us, very safe."


    "Please thank Mr. Huo for me. I really... don''t know what to say."


    Qiao Wanzhou said gratefully. Although she knew Huo Shao Ting, the two had met only a handful of times since childhood.


    She thought the people who would help her would be those closest to her.


    In the end, it was Rong Dai, whom she had gotten to know only recently, and Huo Shao Ting, whom she knew but was not familiar with.


    "I will. Just don''t hold it against Mr. Huo for making these arrangements. Rong Dai has a heavy workload these days. Firstly, Mr. Huo doesn''t like people disturbing their love nest. Secondly, it''s also to allow Rong Dai to focus on her work."


    Lu Nianzhi exined with a faint smile. Everyone was smart. Being more transparent about some things was better.


    "I understand." Qiao Wanzhou nodded. Her anxious heart was finally put at ease.


    Rong Dai in the kitchen could also hear the two talking and felt both warm and helpless about Huo Shao Ting''s approach.


    But this was good too, otherwise if Qiao Wanzhou opened this precedence, it would be difficult to refuse simr situations in the future.

 Chapter 258: The bans are Light.

    <h4>Chapter 258</h4>


    After having lunch at Rong Dai''s home, Lu Nianzhi took Qiao Wanzhou to move into the rented duplex that she had found.


    After getting herself back into the right mindset, Rong Dai threw herself into her work with great vigor and drive.


    She paid no attention at all to the viciousments flooding the inte.


    After confirming multiple times with her client, Qiao Wanzhou''s agent immediately contacted thepany executives and held a brief meeting.


    Although dissatisfied with Qiao Wanzhou''s recent actions that had caused them some losses, thepany had not reached the point of terminating her contract.


    So they only took routine PR measures and let things develop on their own.


    If the keyboard warriors wanted to vent, then let them vent to their heart''s content!


    Zhou Jing''s agent, however, was extremely anxious and worried.


    He understood clearly the entanglement between Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing.


    But unlike Qiao Wanzhou, Zhou Jing had wed his way to where he was todaypletely through his own hard work and perseverance.


    What Qiao Wanzhou had done would not only deal a blow to her own career, but also bring about some irreparable consequences for Zhou Jing.


    He was also aware of the emotional entanglement between the two of them. For it to erupt at this time was better thanter.


    Zhou Jing was now out of danger. Thankfully, the doctor said his face was fine, just some abrasions that would heal with proper care.


    The inte was abuzz, and there was no peace to be found at the hospital either.


    Thepany did not take any PR measures, but maintained a wait-and-see attitude.


    After all, the two of them had huge poprity. This spat could increase Zhou Jing''s poprity.


    But only the agent knew why thepany did not take PR action. They just wanted to tie this money tree down firmly.


    The topic raged on Weibo for three days, still topping the hot search lists.


    Rong Dai focused on her work wholeheartedly, eating and sleeping on time, video chatting with Huo Shao Ting, keeping up her productivity and quality.


    Qiao Wanzhou stayed inside the duplex without going out for three days. She did not post anything on Weibo either, giving the impression that she had vanished from the world.


    Only Lu Nianzhi and Rong Dai knew that Qiao Wanzhou had been drunk for three days straight.


    On the fourth day, Zhou Jing woke up, and Qiao Wanzhou''s hangover ended too.


    "Have you figured out how to handle this? If you don''t handle it properly, you''ll ruin yourself."


    The agent looked at Zhou Jing, still wrapped in bandages, and asked worriedly.


    This was the artist he had raised up with his own hands. He had made Zhou Jing, but Zhou Jing had also made him the superstar agent he was today.


    Leaning against the bed, Zhou Jing quietly browsed through the news on Weibo.


    The vicious words - he had be numb to them after so many years.


    Skillfully, he logged into another small ount that was verified as his personal ount.


    The only person this ount followed was Qiao Wanzhou.


    He had carefullymented on her every post, paid attention to her every move.


    No one knew Wanzhou better than him, no one would love her more than him.


    He had hidden in his shell all these years, not daring to make anymitment to her, because he was afraid of losing her.


    Now, what retreat or choices did he still have?


    His original intention of entering the entertainment industry was to achieve excellence worthy of matching her.


    If he still did not dare to respond now, it would be as Rong Dai said, he would never have the right again in the future.


    The agent knew he had this small ount, but Zhou Jing had never opened it in front of him before.


    Seeing that everything was Qiao Wanzhou''s posts, the big man could not help but tear up.


    "Have you...really made up your mind?" he asked Zhou Jing.


    Zhou Jing smiled at him. "Do you still remember what I said when I first became your artist? I did it for one person, and that person is Wanzhou."


    "This car ident woke me up."


    "I love her, I shouldn''t have made her wait for twelve whole years. One does not get many twelve years in life."


    Hearing him say this, the agent heaved a huge sigh of relief.


    "It''s good that you''ve figured it out. But the Qiao family won''t agree so easily. Once you take this step, you know what you''ll be facing. cklisting is the lighter consequence."


    Zhou Jing shook his head with a smile. "I don''t care. I only want her."


    He had it all thought through and clear.


    As long as Wanzhou was by his side, what did it matter if he lost all that mour and brilliance?


    As long as Wanzhou was willing, he would happily let the Qiao family take away his shine if they wished.


    "Alright then. Tell me what you need me to do."


    The agent spoke, prepared to live and die alongside Zhou Jing. Over more than ten years, their rtionship had gone beyond agent and artist.


    "There are a few things, actually."


    Zhou Jing was resolute. He was grateful for this car ident.


    It had made him see everything clearly and understand what he truly wanted.


    What he wanted had never changed.


    The news of Zhou Jing regaining consciousness immediately became a hot topic. Rong Dai happened to be taking a break. Qiao Wanzhou, holding her phone, stumbled to Rong Dai''s home with red-rimmed eyes. She was too overwhelmed to speak.


    Rong Dai was badly startled by her state.


    "Sis Wanzhou, are...are you okay?"


    "Wah..."


    Qiao Wanzhou suddenly burst into loud sobs and ran towards Rong Dai, hugging her tightly. Her voice choked with emotion. "Thank you, Rong Dai!"


    She was truly grateful to Rong Dai.


    Without Rong Dai, she might never have gotten Zhou Jing''s response.


    Rong Dai was shocked by this sudden outpouring of emotion. She was not used to such intimate contact from others.


    But she let Qiao Wanzhou hug her for a few seconds before pulling her away to ask, "What on earth happened?"


    Qiao Wanzhou wept tears of joy. As she wiped away her tears, she showed Rong Dai the message on her phone with slightly trembling hands.


    Puzzled, Rong Dai looked towards her phone screen.


    There, she saw Zhou Jing''s extremely firm and unambiguous response.


    This time, I will not run away.


    Wanzhou, I want to bravely face this together with you.


    As long as you are willing, I will do my utmost to protect you.


    Wanzhou, I''ve figured it out. I''ve done all this because I love you, because I want to achieve excellence worthy of you.


    This time, I may lose everything. Will you still be willing?


    Rong Dai could not bear to read further. It made her scalp tingle and teeth ache.


    Now she could somewhat empathize with how sour Little Sister felt when she was intimate with Shao Ting.


    "He answered me. This is the response I wanted."


    Although the result made Qiao Wanzhou overjoyed, tears still kept streaming down uncontrobly.


    "Thank you, Rong Dai. You really are a blessing to us!"


    Qiao Wanzhou looked at her gratefully, too overwhelmed to know what to do.


    Rong Dai looked at Qiao Wanzhou before her and recalled their first meeting at the Qiao residence. How confident and elegant Wanzhou had been then, witty and eloquent.


    But even the strongest Qiao Wanzhou, the most perfect version of herself, was just like any other ordinary person at heart - longing for the one she loved to reciprocate her feelings.


    Lovers destined finallye together, wishes granted, thoughts realized.


    This was perhaps the most beautiful thing in the world.

 Chapter 259: Pregnant

    <h4>Chapter 259</h4>


    "Congrattions, your wish hase true!"


    Rong Dai looked at her, with a sincere smile.


    Qiao Wanzhou''s huge tears rolled down her cheeks as she stared at Rong Dai and nodded.


    "I guess Zhou Jing would also be very eager to get your response."


    She reminded Qiao Wanzhou.


    "I... I''ll go to the hospital first then, Rong Dai, thank you so much!"


    Qiao Wanzhou finally came to her senses, hurriedly wiped her tears and turned to leave, but remembered to thank Rong Dai again.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded, sending off Qiao Wanzhou. After that, she also felt relieved in her heart.


    Deep down in her heart, it seemed like something had been fulfilled.


    To go through the wind and rain with the one you love, sharing in bitter and sweet times, is a joyous and fortunate thing, but also requires great courage and perseverance.


    Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing had been entangled for more than ten years. From now on, there would probably be only sweetness.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile. Looking at the cozy love nest she shared with Huo Shao Ting, she missed him even more.


    After thinking for a while, she typed out a message and sent it to him.


    Love and longing are the same, needing to be expressed in a timely manner. She didn''t want to miss every moment when she missed him intensely.


    She wanted Huo Shao Ting to know that she was missing him, missing him very much...


    Qiao Wanzhou went back to the vi in Huafu Hill City, hurriedly changed her clothes, and rushed to the hospital.


    Needless to say, her appearance at the hospital caused a huge stir.


    Fortunately, Zhou Jing''s agent had made preparations in advance and invited security personnel from thepany toe and stop the aggressive entertainment reporters.


    When Qiao Wanzhou entered the ward, the agent very tactfully exited, dutifully standing guard outside the ward to prevent anyone from taking advantage of the situation.


    Seeing Zhou Jing lying in bed wrapped in gauze, she covered her mouth as beads of tear instantly rolled down her cheeks.


    "I''m fine, just a broken leg bone, it''ll heal in a few months," Zhou Jing''s heart skipped a beat when he saw her appear, and he looked at her with eyes as gentle as ever. He raised his hand to signal her toe over.


    Qiao Wanzhou cried like a little girl, grabbing his hand and couldn''t help pinching it hard.


    "You scared me to death! Woo woo..."


    She cried messily. Zhou Jing''s hand was pinched purple, but his eyes were full of tender caring gentleness.


    "I''m sorry."


    He said these three words with utmost sincerity. Qiao Wanzhou''s crying stopped abruptly as she looked at him with red-rimmed eyes.


    "I won''t make you wait anymore after letting you wait for me for so many years. Wanzhou, I won''t let you wait again."


    His big palm tightly wrapped around her slender hand. Over the years, she had be so slender that it pained his heart.


    "Wanzhou, I love you."


    Every word he said hit Qiao Wanzhou''s heart!


    "You jerk! Making me wait so hard..."


    Qiao Wanzhou reproached him with tears, seeming to hit him hard but actually lightly pounding his chest.


    Even if she had to wait another twelve years, as long as she could get his answer, she was willing!


    "No more, never again from now on."


    Zhou Jingforted her. However, being "incapacitated" at the moment, only one hand could move. Other than holding her hand, there was nothing else he could do.


    Qiao Wanzhou looked at him with eyes brimming with tears: "Have you really made up your mind? Once the news is announced, there will be no turning back."


    Hearing her ask this, Zhou Jing''s heart ached sharply!


    He had made the girl wait too long, so even after getting his answer, she was still so insecure.


    "I won''t back down. After backing down for twelve years, it has already been the greatest torment for me."


    He reached out to brush away the teardrops on her cheeks, his voice gentle.


    Qiao Wanzhou was satisfied. She smiled as brilliantly and brightly as a girl in the first throes of love.


    Zhou Jing was filled with tenderness, his gaze fixed closely on the girl who had apanied him all the way sitting by the bedside.


    For the rest of his life, he would continue walking with her.


    Under the agent''s cover, Qiao Wanzhou left the hospital and returned to Huafu Hill City. The first thing she did was to see Rong Dai.


    If not for Rong Dai''s help this time, Zhou Jing and her would not have seeded.


    "Rong Dai, I really..."


    "You''ve thanked me many times already. No need to say more words of thanks. Although you''re together now, there will still be many obstacles ahead."


    Rong Dai interrupted her and handed her a freshly brewed cup of red tea.


    In fact, Zhou Jing''s behavior this time was quite unexpected to her as well.


    But on careful thought, it was also within reason.


    Because of that car ident.


    Only those who have brushed past death truly know how precious life is.


    People only have a few short decades in this lifetime. Missing the one you love, there will be no next life.


    She didn''t know how many people in this world had an encounter like hers, but no matter if it was their past life or present,


    they should devote themselves wholeheartedly to love. Only then would they not fail their sincere hearts.


    Qiao Wanzhou nodded. She was in very high spirits but didn''t drink the red tea. Somewhat embarrassed, she asked Rong Dai, "Rong Dai, do you have any food at home? I''m a little hungry. I don''t know whytely, but I get hungry very easily and eat a lot too. Even got a ring of fat around my belly..."


    Hearing Qiao Wanzhou say this, Rong Dai didn''t think much of it at first.


    But suddenly, as if a movie was ying in her mind, she thought of Qiao Wanzhou''s appetite when they were still at the film set... it was indeed increasing bit by bit.


    With her experience from her past life, she realized something at once.


    "Let me see your hand."


    Although puzzled, Qiao Wanzhou still stretched out her hand.


    Rong Dai''s brows furrowed slightly as she took Qiao Wanzhou''s pulse, sizing up her figure at the same time. Then she asked in a lowered voice, "Did you and Zhou have intimate moments again afterwards?"


    Hearing her ask this, although Qiao Wanzhou was nearing thirty, she wasn''t an innocent little girl unaware of things.


    She stared wide-eyed at Rong Dai in shock, "Afterwards... we did a few times, but only around Christmas. Rong Dai, could I be..."


    She looked at Rong Dai apprehensively, subconsciously touching her belly. It did seem like she had really gained weight recently, with a great appetite, and... her monthly period seemed to have stopped.


    She thought it was because of the stress from filming and her grandmother being hospitalized critically ill. In the past when under great stress from filming, this had happened before too, so she didn''t think much of it.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded, "It shouldn''t be wrong, probably around two months. But I still suggest you go to the hospital for a checkup. I only know a little."


    "Really...?"


    Although she had guessed it, Rong Dai''s reply still made her cry.


    Rong Dai nodded. Looking at her, there was envy in Rong Dai''s eyes.


    When would she and Shao Ting have a child?


    She subconsciously touched her own belly too. Between her and Shao Ting, they were so frequent, and neither took any precautions. Both of them were quite healthy.


    Logically after such a long time, it shouldn''t be like this...


    Not immersed in her own joy, seeing Rong Dai''s action, Qiao Wanzhou held her hand and said with a smile, "Let my ''pregnancy air'' rub off on you too. Your and President Huo''s child will surely be as smart and kind as you!"


    Rong Dai smiled and nodded. She hoped it would be so.


    She hoped her and Shao Ting''s child woulde sooner. She looked forward to it very much.

 Chapter 260: A Private Cocktail Party

    <h4>Chapter 260</h4>


    After sending Qiao Wanzhou away, Rong Dai caressed her belly while sitting on the sofa, her yearning and craving to be a mother growing stronger in her heart.


    Just then, Huo Shao Ting texted her back. She could not help but tell him the news that Qiao Wanzhou was pregnant.


    Rong Dai: Shao Ting, Miss Qiao is pregnant. She finally got Zhou Jing''s answer today.


    Seeing her message, Huo Shao Ting''s mouth corners involuntarily rose up, forming a shallow arc. His eyes were full of unrestrained tenderness, and all the exhaustion was gone.


    He understood her meaning and immediately texted back: As your husband, I still need to work harder. I will definitely do my best when I get back, striving to fulfill my wife''s wish as soon as possible.


    Sitting on the sofa, Rong Dai saw his response. Her charming face revealed an annoyed expression, but her heart was filled with sweetness and longing.


    He had only been away for a few days, yet she already missed him immensely.


    After chatting for a while, Huo Shao Ting had to get back to work, so they stopped messaging.


    After ending the chat with Huo Shao Ting, Lu Nianzhi called.


    "What''s the matter, Sister Nianzhi?"


    Lu Nianzhi seemed to be jogging on her end, slightly out of breath: "I was worried you might forget tomorrow''s wine reception, so I wanted to remind you. I''lle pick you up at 4pm tomorrow afternoon."


    After acknowledging Lu Nianzhi, Rong Dai ended the call. She then went to her wardrobe to pick out clothes for tomorrow and reviewed the questions she might be asked. Only after that did she go to wash up and rest.


    The next morning after getting up, washing up, and having breakfast, Rong Dai went to the embroidery room to work.


    Her designs were novel, and her embroidery skills exquisite.


    Although time was tight, she did not cut any corners. She would rather miss the deadline than produce shoddy work.


    Early in the morning, Qiao Wanzhou went straight to the hospital to apany Zhou Jing. After the doctor came in for rounds, she quietly went to get a pregnancy test done.


    Seeing the results, she grabbed the report, wanting to run and tell Zhou Jing the news. But looking at the report, she immediately slowed down to small steps instead.


    "Zhou Jing!"


    Back in the hospital room, Zhou Jing''s manager was also present. Seeing her red-rimmed eyes, he instantly fell silent.


    The news these two had caused in the past few days was already giving him a huge headache!


    Fortunately, they hade together now. As for the onlinementary, they nned to hold a press conference.


    "Why are you crying again? Did you run into reporters?"


    Seeing her teary eyes, Zhou Jing''s heart clenched again.


    He owed her a debt he could never repay in this lifetime.


    Qiao Wanzhou shook her head, tears streaming down nonstop, but she did not speak.


    Her appearance frightened Zhou Jing badly. He struggled to sit up in bed but identally tumbled down instead.


    "Be careful!"


    The manager was exasperated. He quickly went to help Zhou Jing up and settled back in bed.


    "I...I''m pregnant."


    After getting Zhou Jingfortable, Qiao Wanzhou finally said in a trembling voice, holding up the test report.


    Zhou Jing froze instantly. It took him several seconds to react to what she had said.


    "Wanzhou, is this...is this true?"


    Qiao Wanzhou nodded, her beautiful eyes brimming with tears.


    "I..." Zhou Jing was also ovee with joy and could not speak coherently. He hurriedly reached for her hand as the manager pushed a chair over for her to sit down.


    These two really were...quiet when quiet, astounding when they spoke!


    The two gazed intensely at each other, Zhou Jing gripping her hand. After a few seconds, he finally said, "Once I''m discharged from the hospital, I''ll contact Uncle and Auntie right away."


    She had waited twelve years for him. Even if the Qiao family disagreed, he would still do this.


    He would strive to obtain the Qiao family''s consent. She was so dutiful and righteous. He could not let her be unfilial because of him.


    No matter how difficult it was with the Qiaos, he had to resolve it.


    It was his responsibility.


    He could not let Wanzhou lose her natal family because of him. That was the ce she had lived for nearly thirty years. He could not take away the ce where she had once lived.


    That would be too cruel to Wanzhou.


    Wanzhou wouldpromise for his sake, but he knew she would be heartbroken.


    Qiao Wanzhou also gripped his hand, tears welling up in her eyes.


    "Let''s not worry about that for now. We''ll discuss it after you''re discharged from the hospital."


    When Rong Dai told herst night, she still could not quite believe it. But it turned out to be true after all!


    In the hospital room, the two gazed at each other with great affection. The manager felt his teeth aching from the sweetness and tactfully left.


    After finishing her morning''s work, Rong Dai personally cooked lunch. After eating and taking a short nap, she got up to wash up and get ready.


    Once she had changed into an evening gown for the reception, Lu Nianzhi happened to arrive at her door.


    After picking up Rong Dai, the two headed to the private wine reception.


    The venue was a private vi, a fusion of Chinese and Western architecture. Stepping inside, one could instantly smell the fragrances of flowers and wine.


    Lu Nianzhi brought Rong Dai to meet her friend.


    "Rong Dai, this is Mr. He Zhengli. His vineyard produces very famous red wine."


    "Old He, this is Ms. Rong that I told you about before."


    Lu Nianzhi was dressed practical and intellectual as always today. Thece sleeves added a touch of femininity, introducing the two in a graceful and casual manner.


    Rong Dai had applied light, natural makeup that made her features appear more defined and delicate. Her innate nobility and elegance shone through.


    "Nice to meet you, Mr. He."


    Tall Rong Dai bent down slightly, taking the initiative to extend her hand.


    He Zhengli was nearing fifty, but was impably groomed and looked to be only in his forties.


    "Ms. Rong, I''ve heard a lot about you. I''m finally meeting you in person today."


    He Zhengli smiled broadly, barely touching Rong Dai''s hand before letting go.


    "Pardon my intrusion. Not knowing Mr. He''s hobbies besides red wine, I happened to have several aged teas at home. Please ept them, Mr. He!"


    As Rong Dai spoke, she passed over a prepared gift box.


    She would not have done this at arge reception.


    But Lu Nianzhi had said this was a small private gathering. Although Nianzhi had made arrangements, Rong Dai knew from her experience as queen in her past life the basic etiquette for socializing.


    There was a good old Chinese saying: courtesy demands reciprocity.


    With courtesy, rtionships can develop!


    He Zhengli did not stand on ceremony, epting the tea. He then led the two into the winery.


    They had arrived a bit early, so there were not many people in the winery yet. But the prepared fine wines, pastries and delicacies filled the air with tempting aromas.


    "Ha Wei hasn''t arrived yet. Let''s sit here for a while. People from Brocade Embroidery Workshop mayeter too."


    Lu Nianzhi carried a ss of champagne with Rong Dai to sit in a corner, lowering her voice to say.


    Rong Dai loved the aroma of champagne. She held it under her nose for a light sniff, her beautiful eyes surveying the reception venue.


    She was not curious at all if Brocade Embroidery Workshop showed up.


    Since they coulde, why couldn''t Brocade Embroidery Workshop?


    Moreover, Brocade Embroidery Workshop had worked with TK for many years. Failing to secure TK''s first fashion show in China this time had already impacted Brocade Embroidery Workshop negatively.


    If they did not win thepetition this time either, Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s reputation would certainly suffer. So it was unsurprising they would attend this reception.

 Chapter 261: He Xuechang

    <h4>Chapter 261</h4>


    "If it were me, I would havee too," Rong Dai took a sip of champagne and nodded her head, then asked Lu Nianzhi in a low voice.


    "But does Mr. He have such a widework? Even knowing people from TK, and also knowing people from Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    Lu Nianzhi smiled and also drank a sip of champagne: "The wine business of the He Family developed abroad in earlier years. Their biggest winery is abroad, not in China."


    "I got to know Mr. He when I was working abroad. You know for my profession, connections are the most important resource."


    "The He Family has only brought their business back to China in recent years. After all, no one can ignore the huge market of China now."


    "The red wine produced by He Family Vineyard is very famous abroad. It has a very good taste and is well received by foreign dignitaries and high-end wine events."


    "So the He Family is very well-connected. This is not surprising at all."


    After hearing Lu Nianzhi''s exnation, Rong Dai nodded.


    The two of them chatted casually in the corner. Although there was heating in the winery, it was not fully enclosed, so it was still very cold.


    Rong Dai was wearing an evening gown with a little zer on top, but her legs were bare.


    She was not very cold-resistant, but she could not make any breach of etiquette in this kind of asion, so she could only endure it.


    Seeing that she was getting colder sitting there, Lu Nianzhi got up and took her to chat with the people who hade to the wine event.


    Only then did Rong Dai witness Lu Nianzhi''s hardcore business skills!


    Switching smoothly between threenguages, eloquent, knowledgeable and elegant.


    Such an excellent and very capable woman was naturally very eye-catching.


    Moreover, Lu Nianzhi was well-connected. The people who came to the wine event were all dignitaries in Shengjing, as well as some foreigners.


    But Lu Nianzhi knew them all, and could even urately tell their preferences andmunicate with them quickly.


    In contrast, it was as if she was Lu Nianzhi''s assistant.


    No matter her previous or present life, just relying on her face or status, she could quickly get attention at any asion.


    But today she had failed.


    She was not jealous of Lu Nianzhi, but admired her and was convinced.


    After a round of conversations, the two of them finally found a ce to rest for a while.


    "Sister Nianzhi, you are so amazing."


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but exim.


    Lu Nianzhi just smiled lightly, as if she was already used to this kind of thing.


    The reason why she could handle it so smoothly was because she had done a lot of homework. As soon as she knew the small wine event was going to be held, she had already inquired about the list of all the attendees and studied them all thoroughly.


    "It''s just proficiency from experience, people from Brocade Embroidery Workshop are here."


    Lu Nianzhi had just taken a sip of champagne and was smiling to tell her, when she saw three or five people walking in happily under thepany of Mr. He.


    Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    These three words were like a business card. As soon as people from Brocade Embroidery Workshop appeared, all eyes fell on them.


    Rong Dai just didn''t expect that such an important wine event would send Shi Ning from Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    But on second thought, it was understandable that Brocade Embroidery Workshop would send Shi Ning.


    If they sent someone with too high status, and TK didn''t give them face, causing Brocade Embroidery Workshop to lose out, it would really make a big joke.


    Sending Shi Ning was just perfect.


    She could represent Brocade Embroidery Workshop without putting them in an awkward position.


    As soon as Shi Ning appeared, she really was the center of attention, like the moon surrounded by stars. She was wearing her own brand today, dressed quite ssically.


    But this wine event waspletely in Western style, so she looked a little out of ce.


    The two of them saw Shi Ning, and of course Shi Ning also saw them.


    After all, it was just a small wine event, the space was not particrly big to begin with.


    When Shi Ning saw Rong Dai there, she thought she was seeing things and couldn''t help but take two more looks before confirming it was really Rong Dai.


    "Do you have grievances with her? She doesn''t seem to look at you very friendly."


    Lu Nianzhi was also perceptive and could tell Shi Ning''s subtle expression when looking at Rong Dai at a nce.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head: "I met her once at the Qiao family''s ce, probably causing some minor friction then that made her misunderstand."


    If Lu Nianzhi hadn''t asked today, she would have almost forgotten that Shi Ning had misappropriated her embroidery back then.


    But that was several months ago, she had almost forgotten about it. As long as Shi Ning didn''t deliberately provoke her, she wouldn''t pursue the matter again.


    There is a saying, "You can tell a person''s character from minor things."


    Given etiquette and vanity, since Shi Ning dared to do that, such things were probably not the first time.


    She admired Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s tenacity in developing all the way, but that didn''t mean she would approve of all Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s people.


    Seeing her shake her head and refuse, Lu Nianzhi did not force her.


    "I''ll go say a few words to Mr. He, you sit here for a while."


    Lu Nianzhi stood up holding a ss of wine and instructed her.


    Rong Dai nodded. She sat quietly alone in the corner.


    Compared to the lively crowd around Shi Ning, she looked particrly bleak here.


    Although she had Madam Huo''s identity, in the open Western culture, and her current identity in the eyes of outsiders was just a case of a phoenix rising from the ashes.


    She was useless, how could she earn people''s admiration?


    But Rong Dai didn''t care about these things either. She sat quietly alone tasting the champagne, watching the lively wine event.


    "If you don''t like this kind of asion, why force yourself?"


    When she was sitting quietly alone, a slightly mncholy voice suddenly came from behind.


    Rong Dai was startled and turned to look at the person.


    It was a very refined and somewhat mncholy man, very young, probably only two or three years older than herself.


    The two looked at each other quietly. Rong Dai was trying hard to recall all the information about the original host''s rted characters.


    Because the way he looked at her was very different, as if he knew her, or rather, knew the original host.


    "Brother He, so you are here!"


    Suddenly, a gaudily dressed girl held a ss of wine, eyes shining as she looked this way and walked over very quickly.

 Chapter 262: I Really want Your Answer

    <h4>Chapter 262</h4>


    When she heard the "Mr. He," Rong Dai suddenly recalled the information she had gotten from the original owner''s ssmates.


    He Nianhao was a senior one grade higher than her at the same school.


    He had been pursuing her ever since the original owner entered the school.


    The girl who had shouted "He Nianhao" came over to the two of them. Her looks could not be considered stunning, but her eyebrows gave a mean impression.


    When she saw Rong Dai sitting quietly here, she suddenly reacted as if seeing a mortal enemy!


    "Rong Dai, how can you be so shameless?! You''ve flown up to a high branch and be a phoenix, yet you stille to seduce Mr. He!"


    Yao Shilin stared at her, grinding her teeth audibly.


    Rong Dai quickly recalled the relevant information in her mind, recognizing Yao Shilin as a student from the elite private Fanshengya Academy.


    ording to the information, she and another person, Cai Yunmeng, were joined at the hip, going everywhere together.


    "Oh, isn''t this the famous Mrs. Huo? Didn''t you marry into a wealthy family? How can you still cling to our Mr. He?!"


    Sure enough, as soon as she had straightened out these rtionships, Cai Yunmeng came over with a mocking, ill-intentioned look that made it very difficult for her to like the girl.


    Now she understood a little why Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi had spoken about them with such distaste at the cafe.


    This girl whose first words were so irritating was truly hard to like.


    A faint smile appeared on her exquisite and delicate face as she elegantly stood up holding her wine ss.


    Embarrassingly, in these intrigues and jealousies between women, she had never lost except to the emperor''s favoritism in her past life.


    She was never afraid of being schemed against, but she would also never allow others to provoke her.


    There was no imperial family tradition here like in her past life, so she did not need to worry about so much.


    Reborn into this life, she just wanted to livefortably and happily.


    Her beautiful eyes smiled as she looked over the two girls, and she said lightly, "It seems Fanshengya''s education of students has really been negligent since I left school."


    "Miss Yao, I may have flown up to a branch, but I fear you can''t even find which branch you''re on! And if we''re talking about seduction, isn''t that a more fitting description of yourself?"


    "Mr. He and I are students from the same school. Is it seduction just for us to talk? Or is there aw stating that married women cannot speak to men?"


    Her rebuttal left Yao Shilin speechless, flushing red and ring at her with eyes that seemed to want to swallow her up!


    Just as she was about to retort to Rong Dai, Rong Dai shifted her gaze to Cai Yunmeng, not even considering the other girl worth her attention.


    "As for you, Miss Cai, originally I didn''t want to argue with you two in such afortable setting, but your words have truly left me in admiration. Not a shred of upbringing in whates out of your mouths."


    "What exactly have Mr. He and I done? Or is it that because my husband is worth billions, I as his wife can only be a caged canary without even basic socializing?"


    "If not for the fact that you two are modern women, I would have thought you were still living in the Qing dynasty!"


    "Next time you see me, I''ll trouble you to speak with some manners and upbringing, since I also don''t want to lose face following your example."


    Cai Yunmeng and Yao Shilin were both rendered speechless by Rong Dai''s sharp tongue, unable to utter a word in rebuttal.


    "And one more thing, I didn''te to this party for Mr. He''s sake. If I had known it was at Mr. He''s family home, I definitely would have avoided any misunderstanding instead of shamelessly following along like you two."


    "I have other matters to attend to, excuse me."


    Rong Dai didn''t give them a chance to speak at all. Maintaining her elegance andposure, she nodded slightly at He Nianhao and left holding her wine ss to go find Lu Nianzhi.


    "Mr. He, look at that Rong Dai! Simply shameless and unreasonable! A woman like that only desires vanity. For money, for marrying into a wealthy household, she didn''t even tell you anything about her marriage!"


    "Mr. He, I truly feel you''ve been hard done by. You gave so much for Rong Dai, yet she turned around and married into a wealthy family. A shameless woman like that, you shouldn''t waste any more time on her!"


    Unable to get at Rong Dai, Yao Shilin could only turn to speak to He Nianhao, but her words were thoughtless.


    Even Cai Yunmeng felt a little unable to continue listening. Everyone from both schools knew Yao Shilin liked He Nianhao.


    But He Nianhao was stubbornly chasing after Rong Dai, so wasn''t Yao Shilin being stupid saying this?


    How could He Nianhao like hearing her denigrate Rong Dai to his face like this?


    Sure enough, He Nianhao looked at the two girls in disgust, his voice cold enough to chill them to the bone: "Who I like is my own freedom. What kind of person Rong Dai is, I understand better than you, there''s no need for you two to try so hard to smear her."


    After speaking, he turned and left to go find Rong Dai.


    "That b*tch! How can she still be so clinging after getting married! That Zuo Ran is useless, why didn''t he kill her!"


    Seeing He Nianhao turn and leave, Yao Shilin stamped her feet in anger, looking even meaner in her malicious eyebrows.


    Cai Yunmeng sighed inwardly, if not for Yao Shilin''s money, she wouldn''t indulge that awful temper of hers. Did she really think she was a princess?


    She had no choice but to patientlyfort Yao Shilin. As long as their n this time gained TK Group''s favor, her future would be bright and she wouldn''t have to demeaningly fawn over others anymore.


    After leaving, Rong Dai did not find Lu Nianzhi and just quietly stood alone in the hallway, leaning against the window looking at the scenery in the manor.


    Although it was still a little cold just after spring started, the potted nts and flowers in the manor had just been brought out, vibrant and colorful.


    "Why be bothered by their words? Getting angry will do you no good."


    As if having grown eyes on her, He Nianhao came over in less than two minutes.


    Rong Dai turned to look at him, subconsciously taking a step back to keep her distance.


    He Nianhao''s smile turned bitter. The window ledge was wide enough for two people to stand side by side with space left over.


    "Won''t you give me an answer? I...really want your answer."


    He Nianhao''s voice was pleasant to listen to, not as maic as Huo Shaoting''s, but light and fitting his somewhat mncholy temperament.


    Rong Dai sighed inwardly. What exnation could she give? She didn''t even recognize He Nianhao!


    But this was the original host''s circumstances in life. Even if she didn''t understand, she couldn''t make those who had crossed paths with her forget.


    So no matter how difficult, she could only offer an exnation.

 Chapter 263: A Wedding Present for Her

    <h4>Chapter 263</h4>


    He Nianhao took a sip of the champagne in his ss, thinking about how to give Rong Dai a reasonable exnation.


    She didn''t want to hurt the feelings between her and Huo Shao Ting because of something she hadn''t handled well, nor did she want Huo Shao Ting to feel insecure because of this.


    She had already gotten what she wanted.


    Although some things were easy to obtain, safeguarding took 100% effort.


    She turned her head and smiled faintly at He Nianhao: "Senior He, you''re great, but you''re not the one who can make my heart flutter."


    "Thank you very much for your dedication these past two years. Perhaps I didn''t handle this matter clearly personally, wasting your time on me, I''m very sorry for that."


    "Senior He, you''re so excellent, I believe you''ll meet a girl who can make your heart stir in the future. I will bless you."


    Rong Dai''s reply was very official, but it was also one of the most direct and decisive ways to resolve emotional entanglements.


    She didn''t like He Nianhao, nor did she want He Nianhao to have any more illusions about her.


    If you don''t love someone, refuse them.


    Rather than dragging things out and enjoying someone else''s dedication without any reciprocation or effort in return.


    That was not only shameful, but hateful.


    He Nianhao smiled faintly, his eyes dimmed a little, looking more mncholy.


    The most poisonous words were nothing more than this.


    It wasn''t that you weren''t good enough, it was that you weren''t enough to make my heart stir.


    This sentence perfectly summed up his two years of pursuit, as if it were a joke.


    "Senior He, what do you like about me? Or rather, what about me attracted you?"


    Seeing that he didn''t speak, Rong Dai thought for a moment and couldn''t help asking him.


    After all, the original host''s reclusive personality made it very difficult for people to get close to her, as could be seen from Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi''s reactions.


    "Because of loneliness."


    He Nianhao replied lightly, his deep and mncholy eyes gazing at Rong Dai: "Because I saw loneliness in you, I''m the same kind of person, you''re different from others."


    Rong Dai: "..."


    What kind of reason was this?


    I like you because I feel you''re lonely?


    Please forgive her for being unable toprehend such an answer with her old soul.


    "It''s possible that Senior He felt wrong. I''m not lonely at all. I''m very good now, Huo Shao Ting treats me very well, and I love him very much too. He''s the only man in this life who can keep making my heart stir."


    She could only retaliate, to make He Nianhao give uppletely.


    If she had known she would encounter such an unexpected person as He Nianhao at this wine gathering, she wouldn''t havee.


    Because the original host hadn''t told them about the entanglement between them, and the more she said, the more wrong it would be, and then there would be no way to smooth things overter.


    "I understand, thank you for giving me an answer."


    He Nianhao smiled gently, but his mncholy expression was very obvious.


    "If I hadn''t gotten this answer from you, I might have had a hard time moving on for the rest of my life. Thank you for being direct with me. I wish you and Mr. Huo happiness."


    Hearing He Nianhao''s words, Rong Dai sighed lightly in her heart.


    Although she had only interacted with him for a few minutes, the attraction of this man was fatal.


    He and Huo Shao Ting were different types of people, but the attraction was 100%.


    One was a noble, abstinent king.


    The other was a gentle, mncholy prince.


    Two different types, either of which could easily capture a woman''s heart.


    She couldn''t help feeling a little regretful for the original host.


    If the original host hadn''t been in such a terrible environment, perhaps she could have ended up with He Nianhao as well?


    But now, saying these things was useless.


    The past had be smoke and clouds, now she was Rong Dai.


    "I''ll be going abroad in a few days. My father has always wanted me to study abroad and take over the family business. I''ve always struggled and resisted, but now I think this doesn''t seem so bad."


    He Nianhao said lightly with a faint smile.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, always feeling that He Nianhao''s choice to do this was because of her.


    "I wish you sess in your studies."


    She reached out and said lightly.


    Other than that, she didn''t know what else would be good to say.


    He Nianhao looked at her hand, and suddenly took out a bracelet from his pocket.


    The bracelet was exquisitely designed, with shiny water drop-shaped diamonds and iid sapphires.


    Rong Dai had an eye for quality, she could tell at a nce that this bracelet was valuable, made purely by hand. She instinctively wanted to withdraw her hand, but was grabbed by the wrist by He Nianhao.


    "Don''t reject me, this is thest time, in the future... it''s Chairman Huo."


    He Nianhao looked at her with a hint of pleading in his eyes.


    "I made this bracelet myself, originally it had another meaning, but now as your wedding gift it''s not bad either."


    Rong Dai struggled for a bit then stopped, quietly letting He Nianhao put the bracelet on her wrist.


    Although He Nianhao''s exnation puzzled her, this mncholy man made her heart ache.


    She could only bless him in her heart to find a girl to apany him for life soon.


    To the two involved, this scene didn''t seem overly intimate, but the photo was taken by someone else, and because of the angle, it looked especially intimate, as if the two were a couple.


    "Thank you."


    With the bracelet on her wrist, Rong Dai only felt as if it were burning her wrist.


    This belonged to the feelings between He Nianhao and the original Rong Dai.


    "I have other matters to attend to, please excuse me."


    Rong Dai said softly, nodded slightly, then went back into the venue holding her wine ss.


    "Where did you go? I looked for you for half a day and couldn''t find you, I thought you got lost."


    As soon as she returned, she saw Lu Nianzhi looking anxious.


    She took a sip of wine to calm herself, took off the bracelet from her wrist, and handed it to Lu Nianzhi to put away properly.


    "Who gave this to you? This bracelet... is quite valuable."


    Lu Nianzhi had profound skills, she naturally recognized the value of the bracelet at a nce, and that it was handcrafted.


    Rong Dai sat down and gestured with her eyes for her to look at He Nianhao who had juste out.


    "Mr. He''s son? He gave it to you?" Lu Nianzhi felt a little unbelievable.


    Rong Daiughed and cried, and simply exined the ins and outs of the matter briefly.


    "Tsk, if Chairman Huo had been on the scene, I can imagine what he would have done. But a girl as beautiful as you, with so much talent, attracting people is normal."


    Knowing that Lu Nianzhi was teasing her, Rong Dai could only smile bitterly and drink wine to calm herself.


    After Lu Nianzhi put away the bracelet, she asked, "Why don''t I see TK''s people? Aren''t theying?"


    "They''lle, just a bitte."


    Lu Nianzhi exined. She had just gone to ask He Zhenglie about this matter earlier.


    Rong Dai nodded. The two sat quietly in the corner again, tasting wine. But after a few minutes, Rong Dai felt the eyes of everyone in the venue focused on her, whispering to each other.


    She couldn''t help frowning and asked Lu Nianzhi softly: "Sister Nianzhi, is there something on me? Why do I feel like everyone is looking at me?"


    Lu Nianzhi was perceptive, she naturally noticed it too.


    At that moment, her phone buzzed. She took it out of her bag to check it, and her expression changed instantly!

 Chapter 264: There鈥檚 Something wrong with this Brain.

    <h4>Chapter 264</h4>


    ��What��s wrong?�� Rong Dai could tell something was off from her expression, so she asked.


    Lu Nianzhi��s face was a little gloomy as she handed her the phone to look at.


    On the phone, in the past few days there had already been a huge uproar about her visiting Zhou Jing. Now any news with ��Rong Dai�� in it would trend on social media.


    Rong Dai had gone from feeling unsettled at first to bing a little numb to it now.


    But then she saw the leaked photo - wasn��t this when He Nianhao had given her the bracelet just now?


    Not only was it a secret photo, but the caption was extremely vulgar.


    It just barely stopped short of saying she was engaged in some inappropriate behavior with the person in the hallway in broad daylight.


    Rong Dai almost spit up blood, she was so angry. How could she attract so many petty people?


    Just attending a small cocktail party could make her trend online.


    She handed the phone back to Lu Nianzhi. Her eyes swept around the cocktail party and she saw Yao Shilin and Cai Yunmeng, who were chatting excitedly with Shi Ning.


    She wasn''t surprised to see Shi Ning there, but now it seemed Shi Ning had brought Yao Shilin and Cai Yunmeng to attend this cocktail party.


    ��Was it them?��


    Lu Nianzhi was a little surprised.


    Rong Dai just quietly watched the three chatting: ��Those two are students of Fan Shengya. They''ve always seen me as an enemy. That Yao Shilin really likes Senior He.��


    ��When you went to see someone earlier, Senior He came to chat with me for a bit and they caught him. They were rude so I rebuked them. The photo only caught Senior He''s back, but my face is so clear.��


    ��It''s obvious they just wanted to embarrass me, not Senior He. It must have been one of them, or maybe both were involved. Too bad I don''t have any proof.��


    Rong Dai analyzed it very calmly, not flustered at all.


    ��It takes the ringer to unring the bell. After the cocktail party I''ll go see Mr. He, and then talk to He Nianhao. If he''s willing toe forward, this will be easy to resolve.��


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. When she had epted this job, she had already anticipated things like this happening.


    Now that it had happened, regret and me were useless. They had to find a way to resolve it.


    Rong Dai nodded, her previously happy mood dampened.


    She didn''t harm others, yet was always being harmed by them.


    ��Ms. Rong, Ms. Lu, could youe over for a moment?�� He Nianhao walked over at this time. From his expression it seemed he already knew what was going on.


    Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi looked at each other, then followed him to a reception room. He Zhengli was sitting inside.


    ��Mrs. Huo, I''m terribly sorry. I invited you to attend the cocktail party but this unpleasant matter urred.��


    He Zhengli immediately stood up when he saw her, an apologetic smile on his face.


    Rong Dai shook her head. ��It''s due to my personal reasons that Mr. He''s cocktail party has been troubled.


    ��I''ve already had the surveince video retrieved. This is a clip of it. Since it involves my son and Mrs. Huo''s reputations, I''d like to ask Mrs. Huo how she would like to handle this matter?��


    He Zhengli asked this very cleverly without being off-putting.


    Rong Dai nced at the repentant-looking He Nianhao and let out a soft sigh. ��I''ve enjoyed the Senior''s affections for two years. I had intended this to make a clean break between us, to stop dying the Senior''s future. I didn''t expect something like this to happen.��


    ��It urred at Mr. He''s winery, so I think it would be best for Mr. He to handle this matter. If there is any way I can assist, I will certainly do my utmost.��


    How could she not understand the deeper implication behind He Zhengli''s words?


    He Nianhao had already told her that these past few years he had strongly resisted taking over the family business.


    Yet He Zhengli only had this one beloved son. Although she had made it clear to He Nianhao, he didn''t have the experience from her past life.


    Plus he was still young and hot-blooded, and changes could happen at any time that no one could control.


    Mr. He wanted to use this incident to make his stance clear, to get He Nianhao topletely give up hope.


    And this kind of secret photography greatly damaged the reputation of his winery. Only cooperative partners or friends Mr. He valued highly could attend private cocktail parties like this.


    The corridor was filmed so clearly that anyone who had attended the party would certainly recognize it.


    After this mess, who would dare attend a He family cocktail party in the future? They couldn''t even guarantee basic privacy.


    Actually, it was better for the He family to handle this matter than for her to handle it herself.


    He Zhengli smiled. ��Mrs. Huo, don''t worry. You are an esteemed guest of the He family. And you were ssmates with Nianhao, who was rash and offended you in his youth. I hope you can be tolerant.��


    Rong Dai gave a faint smile and nced at the uneasy He Nianhao before looking back at He Zhengli. ��The Senior is outstanding. In the future there will be girls who understand him.��


    After that, He Zhengli had the PR team directly release the video online, not obscuring He Nianhao''s feelings for her.


    Rong Dai also posted a Weibo with a photo of the bracelet, captioned: Grateful for your affections, you deserve someone better.


    The small storm came and went quickly, and so did Yao Shilin.


    Because when she secretly photographed, she waspletely unaware of the surveince camera. Her face was filmed clear as day, leaving her no room to equivocate.


    ��That Rong Dai! What a jinx! She makes me so angry! How could there be surveince?��


    Yao Shilin stomped her feet furiously outside the He family manor after being kicked out of the cocktail party, but security refused to let her back in.


    ��Shilin, let''s figure out how to leave here first. Don''t be angry, it''s not worth getting sick over.��


    Although Cai Yunmeng didn''t want to miss this kind of opportunity, with Yao Shilin being chased out, she couldn''t bepletely sure of herself yet either, so she could only follow along.


    Seeing Yao Shilin''s angry cursing state, her heart knotted up angrily.


    She had never seen such a stupid person!


    She got caught herself trying to secretly photograph!


    What a brilliant mind!


    After that, under her consoling, Yao Shilin finally stopped her angry curses and left.


    Because of Yao Shilin, they were also brought by Shi Ning.


    Although the He family didn''t me Jin Xiu Fang one bit, the atmosphere of the cocktail party had be a little strange.


    Especially when Shi Ning smilingly went to greet Ha Wei and his assistant when they arrived, but waspletely ignored, it became even more awkward.


    Everyone knew Jin Xiu Fang had always coborated with TK. Not choosing Jin Xiu Fang for the debut show could be overlooked, but now even ignoring Shi Ning, who could inherit Jin Xiu Fang at any time?!


    ��It looks like there is some unpleasantness between Jin Xiu Fang and TK. Ha Wei is high level at TK, and Shi Ning is considered high level at Jin Xiu Fang after studying in France. Ha Wei couldn''t possibly not recognize her.��


    Lu Nianzhi spoke softly with Rong Dai, drinking wine. The two were in no hurry to step forward and show themselves.

 Chapter 265: See Harvey

    <h4>Chapter 265</h4>


    Rong Dai listened to Lu Nianzhi''s analysis and naturally noticed TK''s attitude towards Shi Ning.


    Or it should be said, TK''s attitude towards Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    But TK''s attitude was really intriguing. They had cooperated with Brocade Embroidery Workshop for so many years. It was unreasonable for them to just turn their faces away.


    After all, they were in the same industry. Even if they werepetitors, they still had to maintain civility on the surface.


    But judging from Ha Wei''s attitude just now, he was clearly very disgusted with Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    Could there have been some unpleasant incident between Brocade Embroidery Workshop and TK?


    But from Shi Ning''s look, she also didn''t expect Ha Wei to be so disrespectful.


    Obviously even Brocade Embroidery Workshop itself didn''t know where the problem was.


    "Let''s wait and see. If Brocade Embroidery Workshop is not the biggestpetitor, this will be very beneficial to us."


    Rong Dai spoke softly, her voice so light that only the two of them could hear it.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. Her previous employers were all sessful people, and her job was just to add glory to their careers.


    But Rong Dai challenged her greatly.


    While the two were talking, Ha Wei and Mr. He came over together.


    Ha Wei had specially learned Chinese for this Hua Xia Fashion Show, although it sounded a bit clumsy and awkward, at least the meaning could be understood.


    "Hello, Mrs. Huo. I''m Ha Wei, the person in charge of this TK Hua Xia Fashion Show. I''m very d to meet you."


    Ha Wei was very enthusiastic, looking at her with shining eyes.


    Rong Dai was a little surprised and subconsciously looked at Lu Nianzhi.


    Lu Nianzhi just smiled and motioned for her to ept his greeting first.


    A smile appeared on Rong Dai''s cheeks as she reciprocated Ha Wei''s courtesy.


    Ha Wei was a native Frenchman, and Rong Dai had also learned a lot of etiquette recently, so when Ha Wei kissed her hand as a greeting, she didn''t resist or panic as much.


    "Mr. He, I''d like to invite Mrs. Huo to have a drink with me!"


    Of course Ha Wei was very happy. After greeting her, he immediately said to He Zhengli.


    "Sure, we just opened a new batch of red wine from the manor, it''s just right to drink now."


    He Zhengli nodded and went down in person to get the wine, while asking the attendant to lead them to a quiet corner of the venue to sit down.


    Rong Dai was very puzzled by Ha Wei''s words and deeds, as if he was very familiar with her.


    "Mrs. Huo is as beautiful as a flower. We look forward to your work very much! It would be TK''s honor if your work could appear on TK''s runway this time!"


    After sitting down, Ha Wei was still very gentlemanly, but his gaze on Rong Dai was exceptionally hot.


    His words surprised both Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi.


    After all, not many people knew that she was going to participate in TK''spetition.


    "May I ask how Mr. Ha Wei came to know that I was going to participate?"


    Rong Dai asked hesitantly.


    She didn''t know anyone from TK, and this was the first time she had even met Ha Wei.


    A look of confusion appeared on Ha Wei''s face. After thinking for two seconds, he suddenly realized andughed, "I see! Mr. Huo wanted to give you a surprise! I''m so sorry, I''ve ruined this surprise you two had!"


    After speaking, an apologetic and remorseful look appeared on his face.


    Rong Dai looked at him and exchanged nces with Lu Nianzhi. She was even more confused.


    "Mr. Ha Wei, did my husband...do something?"


    She asked suspiciously, vaguely thinking of some things.


    This Hua Xia Fashion Show debut was a very important event for TK. It would determine whether their brand could gain a foothold in China.


    So the timing of the fashion show was very important.


    But it had been postponed!


    She suddenly thought of what Ha Wei had just said. Not many people knew she was going topete, the first one to know was Lu Nianzhi, then Huo Shao Ting.


    "Oh, it looks like I need to go apologize to Mr. Huo."


    Ha Wei regretfully and remorsefully said.


    "It''s like this. We got support from Huo''s Enterprise, providing us free advertising for TK for a year, with the golden advertising slots taking up ten percent. The condition was that we postpone this fashion show debut by ten days."


    "The Huo family is very influential in China. If we could get such support, we would of course be very willing. That''s why we changed the date of the big show."


    "I was also very puzzled why Mr. Huo wanted to do this, so I couldn''t help but have my assistant look into it. I found out that his wife, Mrs. Huo, majored in design."


    "Oh, it''s all because I didn''t get clear about the situation beforehand and ruined this surprise that Mr. Huo prepared for Mrs. Huo. I''m so sorry."


    Ha Wei was full of regret and self-reproach.


    However, his words greatly shocked Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi.


    Rong Dai was shocked that Huo Shao Ting had silently paid so much for her, without even telling her about it.


    She felt both moved and warmed in her heart, and the longing she had just suppressed gushed out again!


    As for Lu Nianzhi, she was shocked that the 10% golden advertising slots that Ha Wei mentioned would cost at least 3 billion!


    Awesome, my boss Huo!


    He casually threw out billions just to pamper his wife.


    "Thank you Mr. Ha Wei for telling me this, but it''s still a surprise to me."


    Rong Dai did not lose herposure. A smile appeared on her delicate cheeks, and she said softly,


    "I also look forward to my work appearing on TK''s runway. That would also be my honor!"


    She said with a faint smile, raising her ss.


    Ha Wei looked at her in delight and clinked sses with her.


    Compared to the pleasant conversation here, Shi Ning was not only embarrassed but also very annoyed!


    Shi Ning never imagined that when she weed Ha Wei with a smile, he didn''t even nce at her and even snubbed her!


    Making her utterly disgraced!


    If she didn''t know the importance and influence of this TK fashion show debut, she would never have stayed here even if she was beaten to death.


    But she never imagined that Ha Wei would actually fawn over Rong Dai!


    From the Qiao family onwards, this woman had appeared in her sight all the time!


    If Rong Dai was just an ordinary wife from a prestigious family, she wouldn''t have paid any attention.


    But not only was she Huo Shao Ting''s wife, that man Huo Shao Ting...


    Thinking of that man, sadness, entanglement and a trace of unwillingness rose in her heart.


    But all these were nothingpared to inheriting Brocade Embroidery Workshop. However, this woman could also embroider!


    And her work...was better than hers, deeply loved by Granny.


    A nameless anger surged to the tip of her heart, and Shi Ning was very annoyed!


    She didn''t originally want to care about such an unknown nobody, but she kept snatching what belonged to her. She really couldn''t stand it!


    "Go find someone to check if TK deliberately wants to cooperate with Rong Dai this time. She majored in design."


    "Also, check if Rong Dai has any brands under her name."


    TK''s requirements this time were very clear. Except for schools, works participating from other parties must be in the name of apany, personal names were not eligible.

 Chapter 266: Sister, I鈥檓 so sad

    <h4>Chapter 266</h4>


    Rong Dai''s assistant didn''t dare ask more and immediately left the venue to investigate.


    Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi had spent basically the whole night chatting with Ha Wei. When leaving, if it wasn''t for Rong Dai having her own car, Ha Wei would have hated not being able to be their driver.


    "I didn''t expect it! President Huo actually kept such a hand, this makes things much easier for us!"


    Sitting in the car, Lu Nianzhi said with augh.


    Rong Dai sat quietly in the back, watching the neon lights speeding by outside. Although her face was calm, her heart was burning hot.


    "No, this means I have to work even harder now."


    Shao Ting did so much for her, he was so thoughtful, how could she fail him?


    Seeing Rong Dai''s calm yet extremely serious profile, Lu Nianzhi had a feeling that Rong Dai in the future would impact many people.


    She had a indescribable temperament and spirit about her.


    "Go for it, I''ll handle the rest, just focus on your work."


    She gently patted Rong Dai''s shoulder, and the two returned to Huafu Hill City together.


    When Rong Dai returned home, only the two warm yellow yard lights were on, making the huge house look a bit lonely.


    Her nose suddenly sour, she suddenly missed being in Huo Shao Ting''s arms.


    In her past life, she thought as long as she was sensible enough, she could gain the emperor''s favor.


    So she had to make herself strong, forbearing, and sensible until she was numbed.


    Not until meeting Huo Shao Ting did her dormant hearte alive again.


    With slightly stinging eyes, she sniffed and went into the house.


    After changing shoes, she took out her phone and threw herself into the soft sofa.


    In WeChat, thest time of their couple''s chat was still there.


    Rong Dai didn''t think too much, her slender fingers tapped the screen, taking the initiative to message him.


    "Dear, I miss you so much,e home quickly."


    Yes, she missed him very very much.


    She knew Huo Shao Ting had always given more in their rtionship, she had no way to repay him, she could only love him more.


    Lying on the sofa waiting for half an hour without a reply from Huo Shao Ting, she looked at the time, got up and went to remove her make up and wash up.


    Lying in bed reading for a while, after finishing her homework assigned by the tutor on her tablet, it was already 11 pm.


    But her phone screen was still silent.


    Rong Dai had never longed and waited like this before, holding her phone and looking it over and over, she opened Huo Shao Ting''s Moments.


    His Moments were very clean, no sentimental words or pictures.


    The only background picture was recently changed, it was her side profile, and his avatar was the same.


    Rong Dai looked at her own background picture and avatar, finding a photo of Huo Shao Ting in her album to change them to.


    Looking at the person in the album, her heart was burning hot.


    Just as Rong Dai was lost in the photos in the album, her phone suddenly violently vibrated, startling her!


    Looking closely, she found it was her sister-inw she hadn''t contacted for a long time.


    Ever since Chinese New Year when her sister-inw said she would go work at Gu Chengyan''s studio, they both got busy with their own work and didn''t really keep in touch.


    Logically, her sister-inw should be focused on being close to her idol now that she could see him everyday, Rong Dai thought she would be the furthest thing from her sister-inw''s mind.


    Sote at night, why was she calling?


    Filled with questions, Rong Dai answered the call.


    "Sis!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s shriek nearly scared Rong Dai''s soul out of her body.


    Rong Dai sat up straight, frowning asking her: "Mei Shu, what''s wrong?"


    The wind outside was strong, but she could tell her sister-inw was crying.


    "Wah...Sis...I''m so miserable!"


    Huo Mei Shu dragged her luggage, her makeup was cried off.


    Rong Dai was confused but also worried something happened, hurried tofort her: "First tell me what happened, where are you?"


    On the phone, Huo Mei Shu wailed loudly.


    Listening to her sister-inw crying bitterly, Rong Dai''s temples throbbed violently twice.


    "What exactly happened? Stop crying first, we can discuss any issue as a family to resolve it okay?"


    Rong Dai waspletely puzzled!


    Wasn''t she supposed to be working?


    How did she be like a homeless wanderer in a blink of an eye?


    "Sis...I...I want to go to your ce."


    Huo Mei Shu sniffled, crying like a kitten, looking pitiful.


    Rong Dai sighed helplessly, getting an address from her.


    Then getting up, dressing, and taking a taxi to pick her up.


    Seeing her sister-inw alone with luggage on thewn, disheveled in the wind, Rong Dai was stunned.


    Wasn''t the n for her to work?


    How did she be like a homeless person so quickly?


    "Sis, you''re finally here..."


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes were so swollen she couldn''t see. Disregarding everything, she rushed up and hugged Rong Dai crying.


    Rong Dai was embarrassed and confused, only able to gently pat her back, having the driver put the luggage in the trunk and bringing the person back to Huafu Hill City.


    After bringing her home, seeing her sister-inw''s miserable appearance, Rong Dai had to make some noodles.


    While Huo Mei Shu ate, she went to run a bath and brought her clean clothes.


    "I ran you a hot bath, go take a hot shower first, we can slowly talk about things."


    Huo Mei Shu sniffled, her eyes were too swollen to see.


    "Thank you, Sis."


    Rong Dai watched her back very helplessly. Her sister-inw was a girl who loved beauty, this was the first time Rong Dai had seen her cry so bitterly.


    Her intuition told her this was definitely rted to Gu Chengyan.


    She looked at the time, deciding not to call her mother-inw, only sending a text.


    Right after sending it, an unknown call came in.


    She frowned answering: "Hello..."


    "Is this Mrs. Huo? This is Gu Chengyan."


    Not waiting for her to speak, Gu Chengyan''s anxious voice came through.


    Rong Dai looked back towards the bathroom, walking forward a few steps and lowering her voice to ask him: "Mr. Gu, may I ask the purpose of yourte night call?"


    Gu Chengyan breathed heavily, his words full of urgency: "It''s like this, Mei Shu misunderstood some things. I wanted to exin to her, but when I got back she was gone!"


    "Most of Mei Shu''s ssmates have gone abroad, there aren''t many ces she could go alone in Shengjing. I think she trusts you more, so she may have contacted you."


    Rong Dai frowned, she didn''t like getting involved in other people''s emotional issues.


    But tonight her sister-inw cried especially sadly, so she had to ask more.

 Chapter 267: Take Care of the Family

    <h4>Chapter 267</h4>


    ��If it��s convenient, may I ask what kind of misunderstanding it is?�� She asked in a calm voice.


    Little sister Huo is not the kind of person who pesters endlessly or cannot be reasoned with. She was so distraught tonight, this misunderstanding must have been a big one.


    Over the phone, she heard Gu Chengyan sighing, and she couldn��t help but start worrying as well.


    ��It��s about...��


    ��Sister-inw, is that scumbag Gu Chengyan calling you?!�� Before Gu Chengyan could finish speaking, Huo Mei Shu��s sharp voice roared!


    Rong Dai had not yet reacted when her phone was snatched away by little sister, who promptly hung up the call and very quickly added Gu Chengyan''s number to the cklist.


    ��That scumbag! Bastard! To think I liked him for so many years, I was really blind!��


    Huo Mei Shu��s chest heaved with anger as she handed the phone back to Rong Dai and thenunched into a tirade of curses, with tears streaming down her face again with "drip drip drops".


    Seeing little sister in this state, Rong Dai couldn��t help feeling distress for her in her heart.


    Every girl who dives headfirst into love, her initial fantasies are all beautiful.


    But love also contains life.


    When love collides with life, it is inevitable that it will exhaust one��s mind and energy, with many ending prematurely.


    She didn��t know which kind little sister belonged to, but it must have been very painful for little sister.


    Back at the film and television city, little sister looked at Gu Chengyan with eyes full of stars.


    But now, in the blink of an eye, it hade to this.


    No wonder little uncle was so against it back then, it seems he had foresight.


    ��Don��t cry first, don��t scold either. Nothing is set in stone yet, right? If you jump to conclusions now, you''ll feel guiltyter.��


    Rong Dai supported her to the sofa to sit down, wrapped a nket around her, then sat down herself.


    ��Now you can tell me what happened to make you so sad and angry?��


    Little sister''s emotions were sometimes hard to keep stable, but she had liked Gu Chengyan for so many years.


    Whatever made her so furious must have been no small matter, it must have crossed her bottom line and tolerance.


    ��Sister-inw, I really...was too naive! Blinded by his looks and talent!��


    As Huo Mei Shu spoke, she secretly pinched her own wrist twice, immediately turning it purple.


    Rong Dai��s eyebrows immediately shot up as she stared at Huo Mei Shu solemnly and said seriously, ��Mei Shu, I don��t know what you and Mr. Gu have been through.��


    ��But whether it was him who hurt you, or you did something wrong, you shouldn''t choose to abuse yourself to vent.��


    ��There are many ways to vent, your body is given by your parents. If you hurt yourself like this, when your mother finds out, and your two older brothers, and grandmother find out, they will not only feel heartache but also disappointment.��


    Perhaps because of her cruel experiences in her previous life, she would rather hurt others than hurt herself.


    Especially when being hurt in love, using self-harm to vent and take revenge was not only foolish, butughable.


    Not even afraid of hurting yourself, yet afraid to hurt the one who hurt you?


    Upon hearing her words, Huo Mei Shu''s eyes turned red again as she choked back sobs answering her, ��Sister-inw, I''ll remember.��


    ��Remembering is good. First tell me what happened that made you so upset. If you don''t say, I have no way to analyze for you.��


    Rong Dai nodded and got up to make her a cup of red tea.


    Huo Mei Shu slowly sipped the red tea, her eyes a bit empty, and slowly recounted what had happened.


    Rong Dai didn''t interrupt, but listened to her attentively until she was doneying it all out.


    After little sister had sorted through and told her everything, Rong Dai felt both helpless and a bit at a loss for words in her heart.


    Little sister''s downfall was in this impetuousness.


    Sometimes impetuousness was good.


    But sometimes it was a bad thing, especially when facing her own personal feelings, it was very easy to suffer losses.


    But this matter could not be med on little sister either.


    Although little sister was twenty-four, apart from being busy with her studies all these years, the only person she had liked was that Mr. Gu.


    Her feelings were a nk, unlike Rong Dai who had the experience and lessons of her previous life.


    Although the main reason for this incident was Mr. Gu, little sister��s temper had also be a trigger point.


    The Gu family also had an adopted daughter, named Gu Mingci, around the same age as little sister.


    Gu Mingci had mild mental illness, was no different from a normal person when not having episodes, and was also very talented, working in Gu Chengyan��s studio as well.


    Coincidentally, after little sister had gone to work in Mr. Gu��s studio, not only did that Gu Mingci have frequent episodes, but she also told many upside-down lies with eyes wide open.


    Little sister��s mouth wasn��t as eloquent, and she didn��t understand what was meant by solving problems in a roundabout way.


    Today, just because of an orange that little sister had peeled for Mr. Gu, Gu Mingci went and ate it herself instead, and demanded that little sister peel a few more.


    This would surely be intolerable to any woman.


    But little sister could have chosen a different, more tactful way to politely refuse, yet she chose to argue on the spot.


    The result was Gu Mingci having an episode, and Gu Chengyan, in order to pacify his sister, spoke harshly to little sister.


    Little sister left in anger.


    To call the matter simple would not be urate, nor would calling itplicated.


    Although she had not seen this Gu Mingci, from little sister��s ount, she seemed like a restless person.


    Based on normal thinking, if your own brother had a admiring suitor, and you also thought there was potential, most would choose to y matchmaker.


    Just like back when little sister matched the original host with Eldest Young Master Huo.


    But this Gu Mingci was the opposite, deliberately provoking little sister at every turn.


    After being immersed in the inner pce for thirty years, based on her judgement, if little sister was not exaggerating, this Gu Mingci had feelings for Gu Chengyan.


    They were not rted by blood, only nominal siblings.


    Little sister was so infatuated with Mr. Gu, it was perfectly normal for Gu Mingci to also develop feelings.


    After all, such an excellent and handsome man, who wouldn��t like him?


    She was just surprised that for the first time, she had misjudged.


    That Mr. Gu was different from when she first saw him back at the film and television city.


    ��Mei Shu, don��t you think that Miss Gu has feelings for Mr. Gu...��


    Before she could finish speaking, Huo Mei Shu wiped her tears and asked her, ��I know, she��s even faking her illness, just to stick by Gu Chengyan��s side!��


    ��I��ve hinted to Gu Chengyan about it subtly twice before, but he doesn��t believe me. Gu Mingci��s level is too high, I can��t beat her.��


    Huo Mei Shu said dejectedly.


    Rong Dai gently patted her shoulder and nced at the time, it was already two in the morning.


    ��Rest first, we��ll think of a solution tomorrow.��


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, and reminded her again, ��Can��t take his calls anymore, I don��t want to see him or listen to his exnations, I just want peace and quiet.��


    Rong Dai was a bit exasperated but nodded, and the sisters-inw went upstairs together to rest.

 Chapter 268: Mrs. Joe Comes to the Door

    <h4>Chapter 268</h4>


    Because Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu had gone to bedtest night, they got up ratherte this morning.


    To take care of Huo Mei Shu''s mood, Rong Dai got up half an hour earlier than her and made breakfast.


    "Sister-inw."


    Wearing loungewear, Huo Mei Shu came out and saw Rong Dai setting up breakfast. She forced a smile and greeted her.


    Rong Dai looked at her and put down the bowls and chopsticks. While taking off her apron, she said, "Have some breakfast. I made some medicine to reduce swelling. Apply it as a hotpress on your eyester and they''ll feel much better."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded obediently and sat down to eat breakfast.


    Rong Dai did not immediately bring up Guo Chengyan''s matter.


    This was, after all, the little sister-inw''s personal feelings. Only when she made her attitude clear could Rong Dai think of ways to help her solve it.


    In low spirits, Huo Mei Shu ate a few bites and stopped eating.


    Rong Dai did not force her. After teaching her how to use the medicinal liquid to apply a hotpress on her eyes, she continued eating breakfast and then cleaned up.


    She had juste out of the kitchen when her phone on the table buzzed.


    Rong Dai slid it open and saw it was a message from Huo Shaoting.


    With only two simple sentences, it was enough to set her mind at ease.


    I believe in you.


    Don''t let yourself be wronged. I''m behind you.


    Huo Shaoting had obviously already learned about what had happened at the He family winery yesterday.


    Thinking of yesterday''s events, Rong Dai inevitably felt a little unhappy.


    Luckily Huo Shaoting knew her identity. With his intelligence, he would naturally realize that was He Nianhao''s feelings for the original owner, not for herself.


    Otherwise, it was likely he would really get jealous.


    She was unwilling for there to be defects in their rtionship, and even more unwilling for some unfounded misunderstandings to damage their rtionship.


    Time was precious. Misunderstandings should not upy their lives.


    She typed faster and faster now, her fingertips swiftly tapping the keyboard as she quickly replied:


    Knowing he was busy with work, Rong Dai did not tell him about Huo Mei Shu''s matter.


    It had been two or three minutes without a reply from Huo Shaoting. Rong Dai felt a little distressed for him.


    Although Huo Shaoting hadn''t said how serious the matter he was handling was this time, her messages were always instantly replied previously. These past few days, it took a very long time for him to reply to her messages.


    He was working so hard. She had no reason to just sit back and enjoy the benefits.


    She had just closed the chat when her mother-inw called.


    "Mom," she answered the call and obediently called her.


    On the phone, Lu Zheng did not sound very happy, but she also did not get angry at Rong Dai. She just urged her to go back first, then hung up the call.


    Seeing the call ended in less than a minute, Rong Dai was a little confused.


    She looked upstairs. The little sister-inw had gone upstairs after breakfast.


    This matter would probably make her heartbroken for a long time.


    She had already exined the situation to her mother-inw in a messagest night, so it probably wasn''t because of the little sister-inw''s matter.


    Otherwise, with the little sister-inw''s temperament, she would have alreadye over to remind Rong Dai not to answer her mother-inw''s call.


    After thinking it over, there was probably only that one matter that worried her mother-inw.


    The Qiao family''s matter.


    She had assisted Senior Zhou and Qiao Wanzhou in breaking through that barrier and bravely being together. She wondered how things were recently, as she had not been paying particr attention to their hot search these past few days, busy with work instead.


    To be cautious, she secretly called Mrs. Wang to inquire about the situation.


    "Mrs. Wang, I wanted to ask if something happened at home? My mother-inw called me to go back to the old house early this morning."


    Rong Dai only heard Mrs. Wang answer her anxiously, "Madam doesn''t know. Early this morning, Qiao Lady came and sat in the old house for over an hour. She said this matter with Miss Qiao is rted to you, Madam, and is asking the Madam to have you rify..."


    "Anyway, I can''t exin clearly in a sentence or two. Madam, you should juste back yourself!"


    Hearing Mrs. Wang''s words, Rong Dai knitted her brows and did not dare dy.


    She went upstairs, told Huo Mei Shu, then changed her clothes and went to the Huo house.


    When Rong Dai arrived at the Huo house, the look Qiao Lady gave her was full of displeasure, but because Old Madam and Mother-in-Law were present, she could not show it too obviously.


    "Rong Dai, I''m your auntie Qiao. You still remember me right?"


    Qiao Lady pretended to greet her enthusiastically.


    Rong Dai nodded. Her face also revealed a polite smile. "Of course I remember you, Auntie Qiao. You''re so elegant, how could I forget you!"


    Hearing her words, the smile on Qiao Lady''s face became awkward.


    She hade to the Huo house today full of anger.


    But with Rong Dai''s first words, she couldn''t vent her anger.


    Seeing Rong Dai return, Old Madam immediately waved her over and had Mrs. Wang bring bird''s nest soup for her, seeing that she looked a little haggard.


    "That unfilial son of mine isn''t home, and you don''t take care of yourself. All you do is blindly worry about other things. You''repletely disobedient!"


    "Seeing your little face, I''ll have Mrs. Wang stew bird''s nest soup for you. Eat some first, then keep your Auntie Qiaopany."


    Although Old Madam pretended to look displeased, the way she looked at Rong Dai was full of affection.


    Rong Dai was clever and could hear the meaning behind Old Madam''s words.


    "Thank you, Granny!"


    She sweetly responded obediently, then went to slowly enjoy the bird''s nest soup at the dining table.


    Bird''s nest soup was a good thing she never grew tired of, whether in her past life or present one.


    Qiao Lady was no fool either, and could naturally hear the deeper meaning behind Old Madam''s words.


    "Old Madam, I have no other intentionsing today. It was my foolish girl who didn''t know better, but for the sake of her future and reputation, I hope Old Madam can understand my difficulties too."


    "If Rong Dai takes back her message and says things ording to what we nned, this matter would be easily resolved."


    Although Qiao Lady spoke pleadingly, her tone was a bit refusing rejection.


    Even if Old Madam would agree to such a tone, Rong Dai would not.


    Although what Qiao Lady said seemed reasonable, since Rong Dai had promised Qiao Wanzhou and the message had already been released with the matter now widely known, taking back her message now would be going back on her word.


    Moreover, without even needing to guess, she knew what kind of message the Qiao family would make her release.


    Not only would she be going back on her word, but also being unscrupulous.


    "We''ll talk after Rong Rong finishes eating," Old Madam calmly replied.


    "She''s been working hard recently. I''m an old woman who doesn''t know what trouble she encountered outside."


    "If she made the Qiao family unhappy somehow, you should let it go for this old woman''s sake and not fuss over it with a junior."


    "Ai...I''m old! I can''t interfere with so many things now. Mrs. Wang, turn on the TV so I can watch the news."


    Qiao Lady was no fool either and could naturally hear the deeper meaning behind Old Madam''s words too.


    "Old Madam, I''m here today with no other intentions. It was my foolish girl who didn''t know better, but for the sake of her future and reputation, I hope Old Madam can understand my difficulties too."


    "If Rong Dai takes back her message and says things ording to what we nned, this matter would be easily resolved."

 Chapter 269: Press Conference

    <h4>Chapter 269</h4>


    Old Madam''s words were simple and clear, but the implied meaning was very obvious.


    This was the younger generation''s business, and she, this old woman, would not interfere.


    She was also indirectly telling Mrs. Qiao that she should not meddle too much either.


    Children should resolve their own affairs themselves.


    Rong Dai slowly drank her bird''s nest soup while pricking up her ears to listen to their conversation.


    Thinking about Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing''s situation, she also sighed to herself.


    When she had helped Qiao Wanzhou initially, apart from wanting her to be the brand spokesperson, it was more because Rong Dai saw in her the same qualities that she herself had in the past.


    The same stubbornness.


    The same inability to give up before reaching the Yellow River.


    It took Rong Dai fifteen minutes to finish the bowl of bird''s nest soup. After tidying up, she went to sit in the living room.


    "Isn''t this Miss Qiao and Mr. Zhou?"


    She had just sat down when Mrs. Wang was changing the channel for Old Madam and happened to see Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou, who were holding a press conference, on the news.


    Most of Zhou Jing''s injuries were on his legs. The gauze on his face had been removed, revealing a shallow scar on his cheek that was beginning to form a scab. He sat in a wheelchair.


    Beside him stood Qiao Wanzhou, a sweet smile on her beautiful face.


    Because of a car ident, both had be braver.


    Although Zhou Jing had vited traffic rules in that car ident, fortunately no one but himself was injured.


    His driver''s license was revoked and he was fined.


    This was extremely lucky given the circumstances.


    This was a live press conference. Rong Dai was surprised they were holding one so soon.


    It looked like the two of them were already prepared.


    From the corner of her eye, Rong Dai saw Mrs. Qiao''s unhappy expression. She was clearly panicked, obviously not having known Qiao Wanzhou would hold this press conference.


    Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou.


    These two were powerhouses in the entertainment industry. Having achieved dazzling sess at a young age, the spotlight on them was of course eye-catching.


    Moreover, with the exposure of their rtionship this time, they had gained tremendous poprity, with all media outlets scrambling to uncover the emotional histories of them both.


    But all were disappointed to find that both were famously pure and virtuous within entertainment social circles.


    Although a few rumors hade out about Qiao Wanzhou before, they were rified within days.


    As for Zhou Jing, his love history was a nk page.


    Even when acting intimately with top actresses, he always maintained a certain distance and boundary - not a shred of scandal had ever appeared.


    The media present at the press conference were all authoritative and well-known outlets in the industry. The venue was packedyer uponyer with people.


    Qiao Wanzhou went first to make her statement. Seeing here forward to speak, the microphones and cameras immediately turned to her.


    Meanwhile, the living room at the Huo Family home fell unusually silent, with all eyes glued to the television screen.


    Only Rong Dai - although her eyes were stuck to the TV, her mind was racing.


    Old Madam had clearly been aware of something to ask Mrs. Wang to turn on the TV at this time. Otherwise, with her personality, she would have preferred reading a book or the newspaper, seldom watching television.


    If Old Madam wanted to know some news, Uncle Li would usually collect and summarize it to read to her. It was only on Chinese New Year''s Eve that Old Madam watched a little Spring Festival G with them, almost never watching TV otherwise.


    Rong Dai was puzzled, but knew better than to ask aloud at this moment. She just quietly sat to one side apanying the three elders watching the press conference.


    On screen, Qiao Wanzhou had a sweet smile, seeming to have gained some grace and poise after bing a mother. Her beauty was breathtaking.


    "Thank you everyone for your love and support over the years. I also deeply apologize for only going public with my rtionship with Mr. Zhou now after all this time."


    "I love Zhou very much. He''s the love of my life. We circled around each other for years. I always hoped desperately to gain hismitment."


    "I''m very grateful for Rong Dai''s help here. It was at my request that she went to the hospital on my behalf to see Zhou, and at my request that she posted our conversation online."


    "Because apart from that, I had no way to get a response from Zhou."


    "Fortunately this time, he didn''t avoid me."


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke with utmost sincerity, hints of years of bitter longing evident in her voice. Her eyes started welling up with tears.


    She then took out her phone and yed an audio recording - of her conversation with Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai was surprised Qiao Wanzhou had kept such a card up her sleeve, but not unexpected. After all, with Qiao Wanzhou��s many years of experience navigating the entertainment industry, she surely understood such maneuvers.


    But Rong Dai felt sorry for her. Because in doing this, Qiao Wanzhou wasn��t targeting enemies, but her own family.


    Rong Dai guessed that when asking for her help, Qiao Wanzhou had already envisioned how things would unfold.


    "I recorded this secretly because I knew many people were unkind towards Rong Dai."


    "This time the oue was obvious. But Rong Dai is my confidante. I trust her and will stand up for her."


    "If any of you doubt this, I have backup copies of the original recording here. Pleasee forward after the press conference to collect a copy for verification."


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke adamantly, staring straight into the camera lens.


    "To those who maligned Rong Dai because of this incident - if any of you are my fans, I appreciate your support."


    "But I cannot ept affection demonstrated in such a way. Please find another object of affection. Thank you."


    Upon hearing Qiao Wanzhou��s words, some reporters had ugly expressions.


    Rong Dai secretly opened Weibo on her phone, which was muted, but message after message flowed in - all fromizensing to apologize to her.


    She was surprised by Qiao Wanzhou��s words but the harm from theseizens had already been done.


    She was broad-minded and strong enough to not bother keeping count of grievances with them.


    But that didn��t mean she would choose to ept them either.


    So she didn��t reply to any of the messages or post anything on Weibo.


    Next was Zhou Jing��s turn after Qiao Wanzhou finished speaking. Seeing her done, Zhou Jing immediately gestured for his agent to bring over a stool for her to sit on.


    "Firstly, thank you all foring."


    "Qiao and I were ssmates. I admired her since university but I always felt inferior because of the gulf between our backgrounds - don''tugh at me for this!"


    "Qiao is outstanding. Although I��ve achieved some sess, I stillck confidence next to her."


    "I''m honored to receive her deep affection. I, Zhou Jing, will love her for life, protecting her, cherishing her, striving to be the best guardian and husband by her side."


    It was rare to see Zhou Jing speak so seriously and directly to reporters.


    As he spoke, he held Qiao Wanzhou''s hand tightly. She responded with eyes full of sweetness for him.


    Seeing this, Rong Dai felt her teeth clench in bitterness.


    This pair was showing affection a bit excessively!

 Chapter 270: The Teachings of an Old Lady

    <h4>Chapter 270</h4>


    "I am deeply grateful to Rong Dai for giving me this opportunity and bravely taking this step."


    "I know Zhou Zhou is the cherished pearl of the Qiao family, and I am not yet worthy of her. However, I kindly ask Mr. and Mrs. Qiao to give me a chance. I will protect Zhou Zhou and love her for the rest of her life."


    "I feel deeply sorry for the two elders because of my cowardice, which made Zhou Zhou wait for so many years. And now, she is pregnant."


    "I will do everything in my power to reassure the two elders. With me taking care of Zhou Zhou, she will be well and happy. Once I have recovered from my injuries, I will personally visit and apologize."


    After a few seconds of silence, Zhou Jing spoke these words.


    His words immediately caused a huge stir!


    "What?!"


    Before the journalists could attack, Qiao Lady''s scream reached Rong Dai''s ears!


    She couldn''t help but twitch her ears, as if they were itching ufortably.


    When she saw this, Old Madam turned off the TV and remained calm, just as she was a moment ago.


    "Xiao Ji, don''t get angry for now. Don''t let it affect your well-being!"


    Seeing Qiao Lady turning pale and furious, Lu Zheng hurriedly patted her back to calm her down and asked Mrs. Wang to make some tea.


    It took Qiao Lady about five minutes to regain herposure.


    Rong Dai sat quietly next to Old Madam without saying a word.


    The cause and effect of the matter were already clear. As long as Qiao Lady was not a shrew or an unreasonable person, she should understand that this matter had little to do with her.


    Moreover, Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou had already held a press conference, making their rtionship publicly known.


    If the Qiao family wanted to stop it, the public opinion would only crush them.


    There is a saying that it is better to demolish ten temples than to destroy one marriage.


    Although this saying is not entirely urate, Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou had already made their rtionship official.


    With theirrge number of fans, even if the Qiao family had a strong background, they had to be wary of the power of public opinion.


    "This... this defiant woman! Why is she so disobedient? She will regret it one day!"


    Qiao Lady''s hands trembled as she held the teacup.


    Lu Zhengforted her while Old Madam suddenly coughed twice.


    Qiao Lady finally regained her senses and looked at Rong Dai with a somewhat apologetic gaze. "Rong Dai, Auntie is just anxious. If there is anything that makes you ufortable, please bear with it."


    "When Auntie has resolved the family matters, I will invite you to our house for tea and make amends."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head. "Qiao Lady, there is no need to worry. I understand that you are also concerned about Miss Qiao. I also have my faults in this matter."


    Although Qiao Wanzhou had already cleared her "suspicions" this time, she had learned a lesson. She absolutely should not interfere in simr matters in the future.


    Otherwise, not only would it be thankless, but it could also invite resentment from others.


    Fortunately, Qiao Wanzhou was not someone who couldn''t distinguish right from wrong. Otherwise, she would not have aplished anything good and would have caused trouble instead.


    "Then Auntie, please go back for now. I will ept your tea invitation another day."


    Lady Qiao stood up, holding her bag, and said to Old Madam and Lu Zheng, "I apologize for my abruptness this time. Please don''t take it to heart, Old Madam."


    Old Madam Huo nodded calmly and replied in a rxed yet slightly indifferent tone, "It was just a small misunderstanding, and it''s a good opportunity to teach our Rong Rong a lesson. However, each generation has its own blessings, and this era is not the same as ours."


    Lady Qiao''s face turned awkward, and she hurriedly left with her bag.


    Although the misunderstanding had been cleared, Rong Dai did not leave the Huo residence immediately.


    Lu Zheng didn''t want to talk much with Old Madam and made an excuse to go out.


    Rong Dai sat beside Old Madam and saw Mrs. Wang bringing over some floral tea. She immediately poured a cup and handed it to Old Madam as a gesture of respect.


    Old Madam Huo held the tea and took a sip carefully, then finished the cup in just a few sips.


    "Now you know fear?"


    Seeing Rong Dai''s cautious and obedient demeanor, Old Madam calmly asked her.


    A guilty and self-ming smile appeared on Rong Dai''s cheeks, and she softly said, "I didn''t consider everything thoroughly this time. I didn''t expect things to escte like this."


    "It is said that it is difficult for an upright official to solve family affairs, let alone every family has its own hardships. We haven''t even sorted out our own family matters, and you went to meddle in others'' affairs. This time, you''ve learned a lesson, haven''t you?"


    Old Madam asked her, but there was no trace of reproach on her face.


    Rong Dai obediently nodded. Indeed, she didn''t consider the consequences when she helped Qiao Wanzhou in this way.


    "Helping others is a good thing, but you also need to assess your own abilities. Help within the scope of your abilities, that is the prudent way to do good."


    "If Qiao Wanzhou hadn''t held this press conference today, the Qiao family would have med you for causing this incident, and you would have be the target."


    "Stirring up trouble for nothing, exhausting yourself without gaining any favors. You should think twice before acting in such matters."


    Old Madam imparted her wisdom and guidance.


    "If our family were an ordinary family, doing such things would just be doing them, at most earning a reputation for meddling in neighborhood affairs."


    "But the Qiao family is different, and you will be the mistress of the Huo family in the future. When you do anything, you should not only consider yourself but also consider the Huo family, understand?"


    Rong Dai remained calm and quietly listened to Old Madam''s teachings, showing no signs of impatience.


    Seeing her sincere attitude, and knowing that she was intelligent, Old Madam only hinted at certain things. Saying too much would be pointless.


    "I understand, Grandmother."


    "It''s good that you understand, but don''t just pay lip service. You should reflect on these lessons yourself. If Wanzhou hadn''t told me about this in advance, I might have been really upset by the Qiao family''s visit today."


    Old Madam nodded and looked at her with a gaze that was both loving and serious.


    Rong Dai nodded and silently engraved Old Madam''s words in her heart.


    "What''s wrong with Mei Shu? Why didn''t she go back to her rented house at thiste hour and went to your ce instead?"


    "Since you''ve decided to focus on your work, it''s best to devote your energy to it while you''re young. Don''t worry too much about other matters for now, but make sure to take good care of your health."


    "Don''t me Grandma for speaking selfishly. Grandma has to consider the interests of the Huo family and also your well-being. If your health is not good, that little Shao Ting will definitely be restless."


    Seeing that she was truly taking the advice to heart, the Old Madam changed the subject and inquired about her younger sister-inw.


    Rong Dai didn''t conceal anything and briefly told the Old Madam about what her younger sister-inw had told herst night.


    "No wonder both of her brothers didn''t agree. So, that''s how it is."


    As soon as the Old Madam heard this, she immediately understood.

 Chapter 271: Yang Wanwan is Dead

    <h4>Chapter 271</h4>


    "However, Old Madam doesn''t want you to get involved in this matter too much."


    Suddenly, Old Madam''s expression became serious.


    Rong Dai was a bit confused, thinking about how Mei Shu cried so muchst night, if Mei Shu really spoke up.


    She might... really have no way to refuse.


    Seeing her expression, Old Madam sighed and gently patted her hand with her wrinkled old hand.


    "In this family, it will be up to you and Shaoting to maintain it. As long as there is someone with a strong determination, this family will endure."


    "Your mother-inw has lived a life of ease and luxury. She can''t handle so many twists and turns."


    "The life of an influential family is not easy. Anything you obtain requires time and effort to maintain."


    While speaking, Old Madam sighed, her face filled with deep concern.


    People always say that influential families are glorious, with endless wealth and breathtaking scenery.


    But only those who are part of an influential family truly understand the bitterness and hardships within.


    "That child, Meishu, hasn''t faced much hardship since she was young and hasn''t experienced setbacks. She''s grown up now, and there are some things she needs to face and solve on her own."


    "If therees a day when you can''t protect her anymore, will she just sit back and wait for her demise?"


    "Although Shaojie, that child, is not at home, he has his own opinions and abilities. I don''t have to worry about him."


    "But Meishu is different. She grew up following her mother, and her personality is simr to your mother-inw''s. She''s very reliant on others."


    "This kind of habit is not good. You can''t help her with it. Later, I''ll have Uncle Li send you back and bring her back. Don''t worry about other matters."


    "You just need to focus on your work and live your life with Shaoting. It might be a bit tough for you, but Old Madam wants to see you and Shaoting''s child sooner."


    Old Madam earnestly advised her, and when she reached the end, a loving yet somewhat guilty smile appeared on her face.


    Rong Dai felt a warmth in her heart.


    There''s a saying that goes, "Parents love their children and make far-reaching ns for them."


    Old Madam has worked tirelessly for this family, and Rong Dai, having been in charge herself, naturally understands the difficulties involved.


    She smiled and nodded, "Since you''ve said so, Old Madam, I will do as you say. However, in doing so, Mei Shu might have to endure some hardships."


    Thinking about Mei Shu''s carefree nature, it would indeed be quite challenging for her to handle this matter on her own.


    "I''m afraid she can''t handle hardships now, and she''ll have an endless amount of hardships in the future!"


    "She has to live her own life. How long can you protect her? Besides, matters between husband and wife are not something that we, as siblings-inw, should meddle in."


    Old Madam sighed, and her worried expression deepened on her aged face.


    Rong Dai wasn''t good atforting others, so she poured tea for her and chatted with Old Madam for a while. When she saw that Old Madam was getting tired, she helped her upstairs to rest.


    Aftering out of Old Madam''s room, she went to knock on her mother-inw''s door.


    Lu Zheng opened it, and when she saw Rong Dai, her expression was indifferent.


    Rong Dai thought of what happened on New Year''s Eve, and she felt a bit awkward inside.


    "Mom, take care of yourself. If there''s anything, just give me a call. I''ll go back to work now."


    Lu Zheng looked at her for a few seconds and nodded.


    "You also need to take care of yourself. Don''t bother too much about Mei Shu''s matters. Let her handle it on her own. Just focus on your work."


    Although her mother-inw''s words sounded a bit stern, there was also concern in them, gradually dispelling Rong Dai''s anxiety.


    "Thank you, Mom. I''ll go back now."


    Rong Dai obediently nodded, then went downstairs and sat in Uncle Li''s car, heading back to Huafu Mountain City.


    When she arrived in Huafu Mountain City, Huo Mei Shu had already packed her luggage.


    "Sister-inw, thank you for picking me upst night."


    Huo Mei Shu applied eye masks, and the swelling had reduced significantly. She had put on light makeup, looking less haggard.


    "You have work to do, so I''ll go back to the Huo residence. If you need any help, just let me know, sister-inw. I''ll be there for you!"


    Rong Dai nodded and tidied up her cor, earnestly advising her.


    "Mei Shu, your straightforwardness is a good thing. But sometimes, when you''re particrly anxious and angry, remind yourself to calm down first."


    "You''re intelligent, and you''ll surelye up with a solution. If you really don''t want to continue anymore, you can still go abroad to pursue your studies."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, then dragged her suitcase and put it in the trunk, leaving Huafu Mountain City with Uncle Li.


    Rong Dai took a brief rest and then went to the embroidery room to work.


    She was so engrossed in her work that it was already evening until Lu Nianzhi pressed the doorbell several times, making her realize that it was alreadyte.


    "Work is important, but you also need to have your meals on time."


    Lu Nianzhi came in carrying a thermal lunchbox, washing her hands in the kitchen while arranging the food.


    "These past few days, there have been some important matters that dyed me. I was afraid I wouldn''t make it in time."


    Rong Dai washed her hands and sat down. Fortunately, she didn''t smell the aroma of the food, but as soon as she caught a whiff, her stomach growled.


    Lu Nianzhi sat across from her, watching her eat, while taking out a tablet from her bag and opening a news article for her to read.


    "Take a look at this person. Do you recognize her?"


    Rong Dai''s chopsticks paused for a moment as she looked at the photo in the news. It took her a few seconds to recall.


    "Isn''t this Yang Wanwan, who used the pseudonym Wang Rui?"


    She almost forgot about this name.


    As soon as she remembered, it felt like the incident had happened just yesterday.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded and put away the tablet before speaking. "It''s her, no doubt. I''ve already contacted Lu Hong to confirm."


    "She originally nned to sneak abroad, but the boat she was on had an ident, and several people who were sneaking with her drowned."


    Rong Dai''s eating motion paused for a moment, feeling a bit surprised, followed by a sense ofment.


    Yang Wanwan.


    This name used to be quite famous in the industry, with a lot of fans supporting her.


    If only she had cherished her reputation and not been so temperamental, she could still be living a morous life now.


    "I had almost forgotten about this person."


    She casually spoke a few words and continued to eat her meal,pletely unaffected.


    Her mental resilience had always been this strong. Even if there was a dead body lying in front of her, she would still eat as if nothing had happened.


    Moreover, Yang Wanwan had almost caused her to lose her life, so she didn''t have thepassion to pity someone who had plotted against her.


    "I just came to let you know, so you can feel relieved."


    Lu Nianzhi smiled. When she epted this job, she had done her research.


    Rong Dai, this girl, was indeed different from other girls.


    She was extremely calm, not even resembling a 22-year-old young girl.


    "Please confirm the manuscript for thepetition. If there are no issues, I will prepare the PPT and send it to TK''s email. Additionally, we need to prepare an original design manuscript for them."


    Only then did Lu Nianzhi shift the conversation to the actual matter at hand.

 Chapter 272: Embroidery Completed

    <h4>Chapter 272</h4>


    Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing''s affair was the talk of the town on the inte for quite some time before being suppressed by other news.


    Rong Dai had been blissfully quiet these past few days, busying herself at home with embroidery and studies, her daily schedule well-nned.


    In the evenings she would exchange messages with Huo Shao Ting on time. Even without getting a timely response from him, Rong Dai felt at ease in her heart.


    On March 5th, all of her works werepleted. The PPT made by Lu Nianzhi and her design drafts were also delivered to the TK side.


    Now all that was left was to await notice and see who TK would choose for their debut show.


    "If I hadn''t seen with my own eyes you being ''closed off'' at home every day, I really wouldn''t have believed all this was made by you alone."


    Lu Nianzhi had received Rong Dai''s message early in the morning. She didn''t even eat breakfast before rushing over.


    The embroidery room Huo Shao Ting had prepared for Rong Dai was veryrge. The six outfits were neatly dressed on stic models.


    Seeing these exquisitely made clothes, even Lu Nianzhi couldn''t believe her eyes.


    She thought it would be very difficult for Rong Dai toplete these works in such a short period of time. But she didn''t expect Rong Dai to finish them so quickly and so outstandingly.


    The sixpetition outfits were extremely refined. And the embroidery techniques were more than one kind.


    There were lucky cranes and clouds, the Four Gentlemen of plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum, and wealthy peonies.


    The colors were vibrant yet not gaudy. And the embroidery skills were extremely superb, with no visible stitches.


    "If there had been more time, it would have been even better to produce ten sets."


    Rong Dai was very confident about her work.


    "This is already great. If TK doesn''t intend to continue cooperating with the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, I''m sure they''ll choose you this time."


    Lu Nianzhi had also been quite worried. After all, Rong Dai was only twenty-two years old. It was said that Shi Yue, the master of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, only started to show some promise in her embroideries when she was nearly forty.


    Although she had talked pleasantly with Ha Wei at the winery that day, she knew that the business ttery was just superficial etiquette that shouldn''t be taken seriously.


    Moreover, TK attached great importance to this debut show. So even though the Huo Group had given them such tremendous support, for the sake of TK''s long-term interests, they wouldn''t choose Rong Dai if her works weren''t outstanding enough.


    At best, they would give some kind ofpensation afterwards, such as giving Rong Dai the opportunity to study at their headquarters.


    That kind ofpensation would still be very honorable. So TK wouldn''t refuse this favor casually.


    Besides, the Huo Group was involved in numerous industries, with fashion and jewelry just the tip of the iceberg.


    Of course Huo Shao Ting understood that the opportunity for Rong Dai to study at TK''s headquarters was precious. But Lu Nianzhi believed it was because Huo Shao Ting was very confident that Rong Dai could get first ce.


    Although after hearing what Ha Wei said that day, she had wondered where Huo Shao Ting got his confidence from. But now, seeing these finished products, she understood.


    Such exquisite embroidery would impress even ayman like her, let alone TK''s people?


    As long as they weren''t blind, they would know these were outstanding works.


    Moreover, Rong Dai''s designs were very creative, with outerwear, dresses, pants and more, covering it all.


    It incorporated modern elements while showcasing the elegance and connotations of traditional Chinese clothing.


    Such works would easily catch one''s eye at first nce.


    "I hope TK chooses me because of my work, not because I''m Mrs. Huo!"


    Rong Dai said with a faint smile and some apprehension.


    Because if the other party chose her work solely due to her status, it would be disrespectful to her and a denial of her skills.


    Lu Nianzhi took off her gloves and patted her shoulder, "Don''t worry, TK won''t be so foolish."


    "They came to China''s debut show to develop the market and win reputation."


    "The audience has sharp eyes. If TK is so short-sighted, then not cooperating with such a brand would also be a sensible choice."


    Rong Dai understood what she meant and nodded in agreement. Then she turned to take a cheongsam and give it to Lu Nianzhi.


    "I see many people like wearing cheongsams, so I made one for you too. I don''t know if it fits."


    Lu Nianzhi was pleasantly surprised and looked at the cheongsam in astonishment. The workmanship was just as exquisite.


    "You''ve worked hard these days too. And I didn''t know what you''d like, so I could only make what I''m best at."


    "Is this really for me?"


    Lu Nianzhi was overjoyed.


    Rong Dai nodded with a faint smile.


    "This is your expertise. I trust your skills, so I''ll ept it!" Lu Nianzhi said with augh as she took the cheongsam.


    "It''s rare you''ve finished work now. Let me take you out to rx. You haven''t eaten well these days either."


    "Sinceing back to Shengjing, I haven''t eaten well either. I really miss the old vors here. How about going to eat copper hot pot?"


    Lu Nianzhi asked her.


    Rong Dai nodded. She had indeed been busy to death these days.


    Going out to eat something delicious didn''t sound bad. Lu Nianzhi was born and raised in Shengjing. She knew more ces than Rong Dai did.


    Moreover, Rong Dai hadn''t gone to many ces in Shengjing and hadn''t toured around properly.


    She then changed her clothes and went out with Lu Nianzhi.


    When women go shopping, apart from eating, it''s buying, buying, buying.


    The two of them were no exception.


    What''s more, Lu Nianzhi had unique taste and knew many good ces. Rong Dai loved these ssical jewelry pieces, and the two kept shopping until noon.


    They found a ce to have lunch, then Lu Nianzhi took Rong Dai to a painting exhibition in the afternoon. Rong Dai couldn''t help but buy some Chinese paintings.


    "I haven''t shopped so happily for a long time! I really didn''t expect you to be just like me when shopping, buying whatever catches your eye.


    "Not like the others who have topare three shops, and still end up liking the first one in the end. In so many years you''re the first person I''ve found who shares my shopping temperament!"


    The two sat down in an old alley restaurant. Lu Nianzhi''s face revealed a satisfied smile, extremely delighted to say this.


    Rong Dai smiled faintly. Although she liked spicy food, the chili peppers in this restaurant were too authentic. With one bite her eyes were streaming from the spiciness!


    "Whatever is loved at first sight must be what you like. Looking at thetter ones will inevitably lead toparison.


    "Even if there are good ones, subconsciously you''ll still deny them. Might as well just buy it.


    "Even if you encounter better onester, just buy those too right? Why agonize over it?"


    Lu Nianzhi gave her a big thumbs up, strongly agreeing with her shopping attitude.


    "The vor here is authentic..."


    Recently Rong Dai had been busy with the embroidery works, so her meals were basically prepared by the nutritionist and delivered by Lu Nianzhi.


    She would eat whatever the nutritionist made.


    However, the nutritionist''s meals emphasized bnced nutrition and the vors were rtively light.


    Meanwhile, Rong Dai liked heavy vors. She loved the copper hot pot here. Once she started eating she couldn''t stop.

 Chapter 273: Taken Away

    <h4>Chapter 273</h4>


    Although this shop was deep in the alley, its business was unusually good.


    The shop owner was even able to recognize Lu Nianzhi, apparently Lu Nianzhi was a regr customer here before.


    Rong Dai hadn''t been able to enjoy good food properly for a period of time. This hot pot meal with Lu Nianzhi was eaten with great enjoyment.


    After eating their fill, the two sat on chairs to rest.


    "Nianzhi?"


    While the two were chatting, a deep male voice sounded behind them.


    Rong Dai saw Lu Nianzhi''s body suddenly tense up when she heard this voice, and her face also froze and turned cold.


    She looked back and saw a man in his mid-thirties.


    The man was good-looking, wore a tailored suit, mature and restrained, and looked somewhat schrly.


    He looked at Lu Nianzhi with a gaze that was very surprised, and even a little delighted.


    ��Rong Dai, go back first, I��ll be back soon!��


    Before Rong Dai could ask, Lu Nianzhi, as if startled, grabbed her bag and stuffed it into her arms, while pushing her out.


    Rong Dai didn''t understand, but she could see there was history between Lu Nianzhi and this man.


    She had never been a gossipy person, so carrying her bag, she nodded and left the restaurant.


    The old alley still retained its original hutong style. It was already spring weather, but not as cold as before.


    And after eating such spicy food, she broke into a sweat after walking a few steps.


    Rong Dai didn''t take a taxi back immediately, but strolled aimlessly on the street with her bag, curiously looking around at everything.


    She had been in this world for a long time, but hadn''t had a chance to tour around properly.


    The sky had notpletely darkened, but the streetmps on both sides were already on.


    Under the warm yellow streetmps, the faces of the passersby looked hurried.


    She gathered her cor, looking at these passersby, it made her miss Huo Shao Ting by her side even more.


    Although it hadn''t even been a year, this man seemed to have been imprinted on her soul, unable to be separated.


    There were many small shops in the alley, most of them selling antiques.


    Rong Dai was quite familiar with these objects, so she couldn''t help but walk in to take a closer look.


    Just as she was engrossed, the bag in her hand was suddenly violently snatched away!


    Her body stumbled, and by the time she regained her senses, she heard a customer next to her shouting, "Robbery!"


    Only then did she react that her bag had been snatched!


    Her phone, keys and other things were inside, as well as a piece of jewelry she had taken a liking to when shopping with Lu Nianzhi earlier.


    These were not the most important things. What was important was that there were photos of Huo Shao Ting on her phone!


    If she lost her phone, she could buy a new one, but the photos would be gone!


    "Stop right there!"


    Rong Dai turned pale with anxiety. Disregarding her image, she gave chase.


    Some of the customers reacted and tried to help, but the thief ran very fast and disappeared after a few steps.


    Rong Dai was so angry her face turned green. She stood propped on her knees, panting for breath.


    "Over there!"


    Someone shouted loudly. Rong Dai quickly looked over to where he pointed. Sure enough, she saw her bag being waved around in the air.


    Without thinking too much, she took a deep breath and chased after it!


    But Rong Dai didn''t notice that there were almost no pedestrians in the alley she was chasing into, and the street lights weren''t very bright either.


    By the time Rong Dai realized something was wrong, it was toote.


    Two burly men rushed out from the dark alley. A white towel covered her nose and mouth, and she lost consciousness before she could react.


    When Rong Dai gradually awoke, it was pitch ck all around, and there was a musty smell in the air.


    It was an unfamiliar room, and her hands and feet were tied up. Even a fool would know that she had been kidnapped!


    Thinking of Zuo Ran''s madness from before, her limbs turned icy cold.


    She strained to listen for sounds in the darkness, but there was nothing.


    Other than silence, there was only silence.


    No urban mor, no sound of vehicles either.


    She was probably no longer in the city.


    Rong Dai quickly analyzed the situation in her mind, and didn''t dare struggle too hard.


    Her hands were tied very tightly, and her legs were also bound in square knots.


    Such a secure tying method truly left her helpless.


    Snap!


    Suddenly the lights in the room came on.


    Rong Dai, who had gotten used to the darkness, instinctively squinted her eyes and raised her arm to shield herself from the ring ceiling light.


    "Drink this!"


    Before she could get a clear look at her surroundings, an old woman walked over to the bed with a bowl of water, her voice as coarse as sandpaper, making Rong Dai''s scalp tingle.


    Looking at the old woman before her with weather-beaten skin and blind in one eye, Rong Dai felt a surge of wariness.


    "Grandma, where...is this ce?"


    The blind old woman put the bowl down, sshing some water onto the floor.


    "What''s the use of asking so much? You can''t get out of here. You might as well give up thinking about it, lest you make trouble for yourself."


    "This is in the mountains. Without me to lead the way, there''s no way you can get out."


    The blind old woman climbed onto the kang with her extremely rough hands.


    Rong Dai stared at her. She did not doubt the woman''s words.


    From her bag being snatched to now, everything had been premeditated.


    By leaving her here with a blind old woman to guard her, it was evident that they were certain she could not escape.


    Of course Rong Dai was not so foolish as to rashly try to flee before figuring out her bearings and her captors'' motives.


    "It''ste, go to sleep now."


    The blind old woman urged her, then wrapped herself in a quilt and went straight to sleep.


    Naturally, Rong Dai could not sleep. She could only hope Lu Nianzhi would discover her missing soon.


    This blind old woman did not seem to pose a threat for the time being, at least not before her captors achieved their aim. They would not harm her.


    As her mind lingered over the day''s events, it was not until the sky began to lighten that she closed her eyes to nap briefly.


    After a short while, she heard the sounds of the blind granny getting up, chopping firewood, boiling water, and making breakfast.


    She opened her eyes. Last night she hadn''t had a chance to check out the room. Now she saw that the house was very old. Through the window, she saw the woods outside.


    As it had just turned spring, there were only sprouts. No wonder she hadn''t heard a single soundst night.


    She had been dumped in the mountains!


    Rong Dai frowned. Recalling yesterday''s incident, it had all happened too suddenly!


    Fortunately, she had just been left here. If she hadn''t guessed wrong, this blind old woman was probably a forest ranger or the like.


    Luckily she hadn''t been sold off.


    Rong Dai felt a chill. Her heart ached more and more for Huo Shao Ting.


    But she had to find a way to get out of this goddamn ce fast.


    The blind granny had stated categoricallyst night that she was very confident Rong Dai could not escape from these mountains.


    But Rong Dai had her ways. In her past life, she had been a tigeress of a prestigious family. Even though she had been an Empress for thirty years, and a prince''s consort for several years, some things, once learned, were engraved in one''s bones.

 Chapter 274: Thrown into the Mountains

    <h4>Chapter 274</h4>


    However, she now had to think of a way to figure out which mountain this was, how far it was from Shenjing, and whether there was any transportation at the foot of the mountain that would allow her to leave this ce.


    Otherwise, even if she escaped from the mountain, without any means of transportation to get away, it would be just as impossible to escape. There might even be more serious consequences.


    But she couldn''t figure out who exactly she had offended again?


    Why would she get kidnapped just going out to eat?


    The people yesterday had their faces covered so she hadn''t been able to see clearly.


    "You''re still thinking about escaping? Let me tell you, no one whoes here can get away."


    "Even if you make it out of these mountains, you won''t get far. The vehicle thates once a week to deliver supplies is the only one thates here."


    "If I were you, I''d just eat, drink and sleep peacefully. "


    "When the timees, you''ll naturally be sent away. Don''t make useless trouble, it tires me out too."


    She was lost in thought when the Blind Old Woman walked in, carrying a bowl of porridge and a piece of freshly baked cornbread in her hand.


    She spoke while putting the items down on the table and used a knife to cut Rong Dai loose from the ropes.


    Rong Dai was slightly surprised that the Blind Old Woman wasn''t worried she might harm her?


    "My eye was stabbed blind by someone. She struggled fiercely soter I broke her legs."


    "Don''t waste your energy thinking about escaping. There are wolves and bears in these mountains. With your delicate arms and legs, if you go out you''ll die."


    The Blind Old Woman''s one eye always gave people an eerie feeling, and she spoke coldly.


    "I won''t do that, but I want to know why I was brought here."


    "If you happen to know, please be kind enough to tell me so I can at least die understanding why, and be smarter in my next life."


    Rong Dai nodded gently, a faint smile appearing on her exquisite face, her voice clear and soft.


    The Blind Old Woman was rather surprised by her attitude.


    All the others brought here previously had woken up trying desperately tomit suicide or escape.


    This little girl was unexpectedly calm.


    "I don''t know. My only duty is to keep watch over you, make sure you have enough to eat and drink, don''t let you die or leave this ce. When the timees you''ll be allowed to leave. Don''t make useless trouble, it tires me out too."


    The Blind Old Woman didn''t forget her responsibility.


    Rong Dai didn''t feel particrly disappointed either. She hadn''t expected the other party to exin everything in just a few sentences.


    "Then I''ll have to trouble you these next few days."


    The faint smile still lingered on her face. She didn''t look the least bit afraid.


    Although surprised, the Blind Old Woman didn''t dwell on it.


    In her eyes, Rong Dai was just slightly more sensible than the others previously.


    Wanting to escape was impossible.


    So without another word she turned and left.


    Rong Dai moved her somewhat numb hands and feet. Her wrists and ankles were bruised from being tied up, especially her injured ankle which now ached dully from being bound all night.


    In just a little while, she felt some weakness.


    She didn''t know if it was a psychological reaction or her physical constitution, but the drugs had taken effect quite quickly it seemed.


    The Blind Old Woman had probably estimated the timing. She came back in to clear up the bowls and tes, and seeing Rong Dai''s worn out appearance, left without a word.


    Rong Dai got up and walked out of the house. Only now did she see the endless mountain peaks, deste and uninhabited.


    No wonder the Blind Old Woman was so certain.


    With these mountains stretching as far as the eye could see, without a familiar guide, it really would be impossible to find one''s way out.


    "Do you need any help?"


    Seeing the Blind Old Woman washing the bowls separately after clearing up, she asked perfunctorily, while letting her gaze sweep over the surroundings.


    "No need."


    The Blind Old Woman answered coldly. Her movements were very adept as she quickly tidied everything up.


    Then carrying a basket on her back and a long ck bundle over her shoulder, she gave Rong Dai a look. "I''ll be back tonight. Go ahead and run if you want."


    Rong Dai: "......"


    To be so casual about the important hostage, is this really okay?


    But she didn''t say any more, just nodded and sat down on the little stool outside the house.


    "Here, take this. If anythinges close, kill it if you have to."


    The Blind Old Woman tossed a chopping knife over. Itnded by Rong Dai''s feet.


    Looking at the shiny knife, Rong Dai felt a little scared inside.


    Who knew if this knife had been stained with some unspeakable blood before?


    The Blind Old Woman paid her no more attention and disappeared into the woods with her basket.


    Rong Dai didn''t make any rash moves either. She just picked up the knife and leaned it against the door, sitting perfectly still on the stool staring at the mountains before her.


    Based on the time yesterday, right now she should still be in Shenjing.


    Otherwise, there was no way she could have fallen asleep so early on the heated brick bedst night. That is, unless she had been unconscious for a very long time, which was also possible.


    All kinds of doubts rose in her mind, but physically weakened as she was, she didn''t dare rx her vignce for a moment.


    After about fifteen minutes, she turned her head to look in the direction the Blind Old Woman had gone.


    Then she went into the house to check the food stores and daily necessities.


    Although the Blind Old Woman''s hands were rough, she kept herself very clean. Some electrical appliances could also be seen in the house.


    Rong Dai didn''t know what the Blind Old Woman had gone up the mountain for, but that path definitely didn''t lead down the mountain.


    She inspected the food stores and found they were very well stocked.


    It was clear preparations had been made well in advance. She circled around the house and picked a few stalks of medicinal herbs. After snapping off the roots and washing them clean, she put them in her mouth to chew. These were detoxification herbs.


    Although the drug the Blind Old Woman had given her only induced weakness for the time being, prolonged exposure wouldn''t be so simple.


    She had to prepare for all eventualities. Since they dared kidnap her, they must know her identity.


    What if they harbored malicious intentions? Wouldn''t she just be waiting passively for death then?


    With her mind made up, instead of anxious she felt eerily calm inside.


    The Blind Old Woman returned at dusk. Her basket held two dead wild rabbits. Seeing Rong Dai was still there, she showed no surprise.


    They had rabbit meat for dinner that night. This Blind Old Woman looked vicious but was actually quite a good cook.


    Rong Dai ate heartily with no hesitation.


    Meanwhile in the Huafu mountain city, Lu Nianzhi rushed to pound anxiously on their door after getting Huo Shao Ting''s call.


    But no one answered from inside the house. Lu Nianzhi''s face instantly paled. She hurriedly called Lu Zheng.


    Finding out Rong Dai hadn''t returned to the Huo residence either, Lu Nianzhi''s face turned white!


    Yesterday she had run into an old acquaintance which led to some talk about the past. So she had let Rong Dai go on ahead alone.


    But now Rong Dai was missing from home!

 Chapter 275: Lu Nianzhi is out of Control

    <h4>Chapter 275</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi had never been so panicked before, her hands and feet were cold!


    If anything happened to Rong Dai, how would she exin it to Huo Shao Ting?!


    She hurriedly dialed Rong Dai''s phone, but after dialing several times in a row, it was still off!


    Although it was the spring weather, cold sweat was still dripping down her forehead!


    It was she who took Rong Dai out yesterday. How could she be so muddled yesterday?!


    No matter how bad the mood was when she came back, she should have called Rong Dai to ask her, this was the first major mistake she had made in so many years of work!


    Lu Nianzhi was extremely regretful in her heart, and also extremely anxious.


    But now she had to find the person first, other things could only be pressed in her heart for the time being.


    She then called Lu Hong.


    And Lu Hong had just finished talking with Huo Shaoting over there.


    When she heard Lu Hong say that there was a robbery in the alley near the restaurant where they had dinner yesterday, and heard Lu Hong confirm in person that the robbery victim was Rong Dai.


    Lu Nianzhi couldn''t stand still, and there was a buzzing sound in her brain!


    "Don''t worry first, I have filed a case here."


    Lu Hong also knew that it was a big deal, and it was not the first time Rong Dai was kidnapped.


    From yesterday until now, there has been no news about Rong Dai at all.


    At least no news now is the best news.


    "You go to a few ces she''s familiar with to find her..."


    "She doesn''t have any familiar ces at all! Apart from the Huo family, it''s the home she shares with Mr. Huo. Thepany is still under renovation. She won''t go there either!"


    Lu Nianzhi was anxious as if she was on fire. Her words were inevitably irritable and resentful.


    "I''m sorry...I, I''m just too worried!"


    After shouting, Lu Nianzhi realized afterwards that she had vented her anger on others.


    On the phone side, Lu Hong didn''t hold her ountable, only exhorted her not to worry first, and let her think about whether Rong Dai had offended anyone recently.


    Lu Nianzhi thought about it and then told him what happened at the He Family Winery that day.


    Lu Hong frowned over there, and after a while the siblings hung up the phone.


    Lu Nianzhi was anxious in her heart. She thought about it and quickly contacted her friends and contacted Rong Dai''s two ssmates she had mentioned to her before.


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi.


    The two of them were still very surprised when they received the call. After hearing the news that Rong Dai had been robbed and had already disappeared, the faces of the two changed drastically, and they hurriedly took a taxi and rushed over.


    Lu Nianzhi and the two of them did not know Rong Dai''s identity, so after listening to Lu Nianzhi''s analysis, the two returned to school as soon as possible to find the ces Rong Dai often went.


    But there was no news all morning. Rong Dai seemed to have evaporated from the human world!


    The media couldn''t hide this matter. The news of Rong Dai''s disappearance quickly became a hot search!


    "These people have eaten too much white rice. They curse people like this. Aren''t they afraid of retribution to themselves?"


    Lu Nianzhi had always been mature and calm. Even if she was angry and anxious, she would not get so angry!


    However, after seeing those words on the Inte this time, she was so angry that she scolded angrily, and smashed the phone ruthlessly on the ground, smashed to pieces on the spot!


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi didn''t dare to speak, worrying about Rong Dai, and a little afraid of the angry Lu Nianzhi.


    "Sorry, I scared you."


    Seeing the two looking wrong, Lu Nianzhi crossed her arms, sighed lightly and apologized to them.


    The two shook their heads repeatedly, not daring to say anything.


    "I troubled you guys, if there is any news about Rong Dai, I will let you know."


    Lu Nianzhi suppressed the anger in her heart and said to them.


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi nodded, knowing that they would not be much help staying.


    After the two left, Lu Nianzhi patted the table angrily again, then took out the spare phone from her bag, and skillfully dialed a phone number that she hadn''t dialed for a long time.


    "Xu Chuan! You bastard! Why after so many years you are still haunting me? I have let go of you, why can''t you let me go! You bastard! I hate you!"


    When Lu Nianzhi heard the call connected, she roared furiously!


    She was so angry that her eyes turned red, looking vicious and resentful.


    If she hadn''t met this man yesterday, she wouldn''t have let Rong Dai leave first, and this wouldn''t have happened!


    She was very clear how important Rong Dai was to the Huo family now!


    Especially since this was the first time she had made such a grave mistake after many years of experience!


    Simply unforgivable!


    If she didn''t forgive herself, Xu Chuan couldn''t expect to get by either!


    However, there was a "Wow" sound of a child crying loudly on the phone. Lu Nianzhi''s current anger value could kill all creatures in seconds!


    So when she roared just now, she used all her might!


    But she didn''t expect there to be a cry of a frightened child in the phone. Her face changed instantly!


    After being slightly stiff and shocked, she sneered. Her smile was a bit evil and ironic, especially creepy.


    She had always controlled her emotions very well, and there were almost no moments of loss of control.


    It was only in the face of Xu Chuan, the man who had hurt her beyond repair, that she would go mad like a lunatic!


    "Daddy, the auntie on the phone is so scary... Heng is afraid..."


    On the phone, the five-year-old Xu Heng was yelled at by someone so fiercely for the first time, and was scared to tears. He climbed up Xu Chuan''s body nimbly.


    Xu Chuan hugged his son to his room,forted the little milk cub, then looked at the brand new number. His eyes were deep.


    An error five years ago made it impossible for them to return to the starting point.


    In these five years, he had been looking for her. Even if she scolded him or hit him, it would be better than just disappearing like this silently in his world.


    When he identally met her at the restaurant they often went to yesterday, he thought he was dreaming.


    But their conversation yesterday was unpleasant. He knew that she hated him very much.


    Thinking of her disgusted and indifferent eyes towards him yesterday, his heart ached again and again.


    Xu Chuan didn''t hesitate and called Lu Nianzhi.


    Seeing Xu Chuan''s iing call, Lu Nianzhi''s face changed. Without hesitation, she hung up and resolutely added it to the cklist.


    It had been five years. Unexpectedly, he had be a father.


    But it was just the right amount of time, wasn''t it?


    Lu Nianzhi''s smile was cold, full of sarcasm. After slightly sorting out her mood, she called Huo Shaoting.


    After being hung up by Lu Nianzhi, Xu Chuan called again, but it was always "on the phone" forever.


    He knew that he had been cklisted again, just like five years ago.


    She didn''t even give him a chance to exin and repent, she had sentenced him to death.


    But he couldn''t me her. What he felt was only guilt and regret, but he couldn''t change anything.


    He owed Lu Nianzhi for the rest of his life, and could never pay it back.


    "Daddy, why are you crying? Real men don''t cry!"


    Little Xu Heng popped up somehow, hugging his legs, his voice soft and glutinous.


    Although he was a boy, he was as soft and glutinous as a little girl.

 Chapter 276: He just wants a Wife.

    <h4>Chapter 276</h4>


    ��CEO, do you really have to go back now? The contacts here have already been arranged, if you leave now, the other party may say we break our word and the cooperation could fall through...��


    Zhang Assistant was very worried and also a bit conflicted.


    On one side was his wife, on the other side thepany.


    These two things were the most important to CEO Huo.


    Huo Shao Ting loosened his tie and his deep set eyes were extremely cold and piercing.


    He had only been out for a few days when some shameless people had targeted his wife.


    If he couldn''t even protect his own wife, what was the point of him running apany!


    To earn money and bury himself? Or to eat?


    "I''m going to book the next avable flight right now!"


    When Zhang Assistant came into contact with his icy gaze, he shivered all over and hurried to arrange the return flight.


    After he left, Huo Shao Ting clenched his fists tightly, killing intent bursting out of his eyes, extremely creepy!


    A few secondster he made a phone call, speaking fluent French to the other party.


    He had to protect his wife and also hispany!


    If the Huo family wanted an all out war, then it would depend whether he agreed or not!


    Half an hourter, Huo Shao Ting boarded the flight back home.


    On Rong Dai��s side, the Blind Old Woman still only gave her two meals a day, breakfast and dinner. At lunchtime the Blind Old Woman would go out with her basket as usual.


    Whenever she came back, the basket would contain some game.


    This game was their dinner.


    After thinking things over for two days here, Rong Dai had behaved very well, seeming a bit resigned to her fate.


    That morning the Blind Old Woman had prepared her usual breakfast of rice porridge and a corn cake.


    After the Blind Old Woman went out, she ate some foraged herbs as usual to relieve the symptoms of her overall weakness.


    It had already been three days.


    Rong Dai looked at the midday sun in the sky.


    The day after tomorrow would be the TK fashion show, if she couldn��t make it there in time, it would be a real shame.


    She had actually already figured out the way down the mountain over the past three days.


    She could get out, but at the foot of the mountain there was a three way fork in the road and she didn��t know which way to go.


    In her past life, her father and brothers had all been generals, marching and fighting wars was grueling work.


    When she was little she liked to sneak into army camps and over time she also picked up some knowledge of military strategy.


    Being trapped here in the mountains wouldn��t hold her.


    But that fork in the road with three paths and no end in sight had really stumped her.


    No wonder that Blind Old Woman was so certain that no matter what she did, she wouldn��t be able to escape from here, people unfamiliar with the area simply had no way to find their way out.


    Otherwise the Blind Old Woman wouldn��t have left her alone here with such confidence, she obviously hadplete faith.


    But today the Blind Old Woman still hadn��t returned even though the sky waspletely dark, there was still no sign of her.


    Rong Dai couldn��t help feeling a little worried.


    She didn��t care whether the Blind Old Woman lived or died, from her words it was clear this wasn��t the first time she had done something like this.


    A person like this deserved to die.


    But if the Blind Old Woman didn��te back, there was nomunication here, she couldn��t get out, and she had no way to contact the outside world either.


    So before she could leave this ce, she had to pay attention to whether the Blind Old Woman lived or died.


    She waited a long time, there were no clocks in the house, she could only estimate the time.


    As time went by she felt more and more that something was wrong, the mountain was deathly still, making people feel chilled to the bone.


    She stood waiting anxiously in front of the door until she heard what sounded like a wild beast roar from the woods, mixed with what seemed to be screams from the Blind Old Woman.


    Rong Dai��s expression froze, had she run into wild beasts in the mountain?


    She grabbed the wood chopping knife and also took a lit torch from the pantry before rushing into the woods.


    After running probably five hundred meters she saw the Blind Old Woman with a bloody calf and a lone wolf behind her!


    When the Blind Old Woman saw Rong Dai appear, the one eye she had left shone with hope.


    In her past life, Rong Dai had at least been a fierce daughter of a powerful military family, she had rubbed shoulders in army camps so she knew a little bit of fist and foot martial arts.


    Plus wild beasts feared fire, and this was an injured lone wolf.


    Seeing Rong Dai rush in aggressively brandishing a torch, the lone wolf seemed to hesitate for a few seconds before disappearing into the woods.


    Only then did Rong Dai help the Blind Old Woman up and the two of them went back to the house.


    ��Your leg wound has to be treated, otherwise it could get infected.��


    Rong Dai knitted her brows and said. She didn��t want the woman to die first before she had a chance to get away from here.


    ��There��s a medicine box over there, bring it to me.��


    The Blind Old Woman still spoke very coldly, but herplexion had softened a lot.


    Rong Dai didn��t follow where she was pointing but instead carried over a wooden box which contained things like bandages, iodine, etc.


    The Blind Old Woman bit down on a wooden stick then tore open her mangled pant leg herself.


    ��Here, let me.��


    Rong Dai had a thought and took the initiative to help dress her injury.


    After she was done she helped the woman onto the kang bed. As she washed her hands in the basin, she casually asked, ��How much can you make from doing this once? Is it worth gambling your life away?��


    Even with the terribly tragic ending she had suffered in herst life because of the Emperor, she had never thought of seeking death.


    There was a saying that it��s better to live by any means than to die a good death.


    The Blind Old Woman stared at her back for a long time without answering. After a while she mumbled, ��One hundred thousand per time.��


    Rong Dai suddenly understood. One hundred thousand per time.


    For a poor family that was already an astronomical figure.


    No wonder the Blind Old Woman dared take such risks.


    Guarding someone once earned one hundred thousand, plus this was a good location up in the mountains.


    If it was some delicate pampered city girl thrown in here, she really would be entirely at the mercy of fate.


    ��I can give you two million.��


    She turned to face the Blind Old Woman, her charming cheeks extremely calm.


    ��You��re doing this for money in the end. Two million is already a lifetime��s worth of earnings for you in one go. On top of that, I won��t pursue your culpability, you just need to show me the way out. I leave, that won��t count as your failing your duty either.��


    ��The one hundred thousand the other side gave you, you can still keep. If you��re willing to tell me who the other person is, I can give you another two million.��


    ��Four million total.��


    She stared at the Blind Old Woman, an enticing temptation.


    There was amon saying that people are willing to die for money just like birds will risk their lives for food. Indeed, money can move even ghosts to toil.


    Thesemon sayings were right on point.


    The Blind Old Woman was only in it for the money.


    ��With four million, can you imagine the kind of life you could live? Anywhere in this huge country that suits your fancy, a small county town. That money would be enough tofortably spend the rest of your life.��


    She continued persuading.


    She noticed the Blind Old Woman didn��t seem satisfied with the amount she had named, her expression didn��t change.


    ��Think it��s too little? Then tell me, how much were you hoping to get?��


    Rong Dai looked at her and asked again.


    Anything that could be resolved with money wasn��t a problem. She just wanted to hurry up and get away from this ghost ce.


    She had disappeared for three days, Lu Nianzhi and the others must be worried sick, not to mention Shao Ting.


    Who knew if he had rushed back because of her again, dying his work once more.

 Chapter 277: Bargain

    <h4>Chapter 277</h4>


    Although Rong Dai was anxious inside, she didn''t dare show it.


    When she spoke, she liked to stare into the other person''s eyes. Even though it was the Blind Old Woman, when faced with such a gaze, she still couldn''t help but shift her eyes away.


    "It''s understandable that you took money to do this. I can understand."


    "But I have no enmity or grudge against you. I just saved your life earlier. I only asked you to point me a way, and you could easily get 2 million for it."


    "You didn''t go back on your word or go against the other person''s intentions. For you, this is a very cost-effective deal."


    "If you''re willing to reveal a little more information about the other person, with just a few words, you can earn 4 million. That''s the kind of remuneration you''d get from doing this many times?"


    Rong Dai continued trying to persuade the other person.


    In her opinion, the Blind Old Woman''s silence meant that she was not indifferent inside.


    The Blind Old Woman looked up at her and pulled the quilt to cover herself, "Go to sleep. Seeing that you saved my life tonight, I''ll pretend I didn''t hear what you just said."


    Rong Dai didn''t expect her to refuse so bluntly. But the Blind Old Woman''s words gave her another piece of information.


    At least the Blind Old Woman had a need for money.


    As long as there was a need, it was just a matter of time before it could be resolved.


    "Alright."


    Rong Dai didn''t continue throwing out her bargaining chips. Instead, she also sat on the kang, not bothering about how dirty it was.


    "But you dare to take such risks. Nowadays society is so open, I know you understand thew. At least you know that depriving others of their personal freedom is against thew."


    "But you still persist in doing this. Either you''re truly greedy, or you desperatelyck money. I think it''s thetter in your case."


    These past three days, the Blind Old Woman would leave and return at fixed times every day.


    The distance was so great, and she woulde back with wild game in her basket each time.


    With one blind eye, no matter how strong or urate her vision was, it was impossible for her to hunt such plump prey in the woods.


    Besides, if she was truly skilled at hunting, she wouldn''t have been chased so desperately by that lone injured wolf earlier.


    So she guessed seven or eight parts out of ten that the ce the Blind Old Woman went to every day was not for hunting, but to go home.


    The household items and food reserves here were sufficient, but they were all newly added.


    She had specially gone to take a look at the storage room. Although it was just a small woodshed, it couldn''t be said to have no dust if it had been in long-term use.


    At least dust wouldn''t have thickly umted to almost a finger''s width. This clearly wasn''t a ce the Blind Old Woman lived in year-round.


    "4 million is already a huge sum for an average family. Some people can''t even earn that much in their lifetime."


    Rong Dai turned her head to stare straight at the Blind Old Woman''s single eye.


    The Blind Old Woman''s mouth twitched as she fell silent for a long time.


    Rong Dai didn''t rush her either, because she knew the other party was moved.


    "10 million, not a cent less. This is ransom money for my life."


    "I''m only doing this because I have no choice. Other than the one who blinded my eye, I haven''t harmed anyone who was brought here."


    "You can transfer the money to my ount. Even if it''s investigated and I get arrested, I don''t care. But you can''t take the money back."


    After about 15 minutes of silence, the Blind Old Woman finally spoke. Her tone was full ofplexity and profoundness.


    How could she not know that this was illegal?


    But for the sake of her family, what was her old life worth?


    Of all the people brought here she had seen, this girl was the smartest.


    The others were all thinking of ways to escape or create trouble for her.


    She only wanted money, not lives. And she wasn''t the one who captured these people either.


    But if not for this girl saving her just now, she would have died in the wolf''s jaws.


    What she was doing went against morals and the will of Heaven. Heaven''s principles were difficult to tolerate.


    This time, she would umte some virtue.


    10 million was enough for her granddaughter''s surgery fees.


    If her son and daughter-inw were a little thriftier, they could still live a good life afterwards.


    "Alright."


    Rong Dai didn''t think too much about it.


    Although 10 million was a lot, it was far less important than her own life.


    Besides, she could earn even more 10 millions in the future.


    "Go behind that cab over there. Your bag is there."


    The Blind Old Woman pointed at a short cab in the house, indicating for her to move it aside. There was a concealedpartment behind the cab.


    Sure enough, her handbag was hidden inside.


    She had actually not discovered this concealedpartment!


    "This is my ount."


    The Blind Old Woman took out a senior citizen mobile phone from her clothes and showed her a message with an ount number.


    Rong Dai didn''t hesitate. She switched on her own phone while epting the Blind Old Woman''s phone to look at her ount.


    "My money is managed by my assistant. I can call her and ask her to transfer it to you immediately."


    She looked at the Blind Old Woman and said, feeling that things were going surprisingly smoothly.


    But the Blind Old Woman sat up with her single eye fixed intently on her, "Girl, don''t try anything funny. I know you want someone toe rescue you."


    "Since I''ve said this, I''ll keep my word. Otherwise I can easily kill you in these mountains."


    "Don''t think I''m silly just because I''m old. Transfers can also be done by phone."


    "Transfer me 8 million now. I''ll bring you down the mountain. The remaining 2 million you can give me afterwards."


    A trace of coldness rose in Rong Dai''s heart, but she still shook her head with a wry smile as she handed over her phone to the Blind Old Woman.


    "I don''t mean to deceive you. Since you want me to trust you and aren''t afraid your ount will be investigated, why can''t I make this call?"


    "Even if I asked someone to rescue me, unless they were immortals, they wouldn''t be able toe in a short time."


    "By the time they arrive, you would have gotten the 10 million and have a full chance to leave this ce."


    "I said I won''t make trouble for you. And the one I want to make trouble for isn''t you either."


    If she transferred the money to the old woman now, she would probably go back on her wordter.


    It was possible she might fall into the other party''s trap like this.


    "I''ll call and ask someone to transfer it to you. Either that or I''ll just stay here and wait. When it''s time, you''ll have to bring me down the mountain and the 10 million will be gone."


    "I''m not an easy target. I also earn money through great hardships, while also facing the risk of being kidnapped anytime. What if you asked for even moreter?"


    "If I gave all my family wealth to you, what would my family eat and drink?"


    Rong Dai retorted.


    She had to seize this opportunity to get in contact with Lu Nianzhi no matter what.


    The Blind Old Woman fell silent for a long time after hearing her words.


    "Then be quick about it. I hope you keep your word, otherwise don''t think about finding out who captured you."


    "You''ll miss the opportunity here. Next time, you still won''t be prepared even though the same thing might happen again unless you stop going out."


    The Blind Old Woman wasn''t stupid either, but for the sake of the 10 million, she was going all out!


    Even if shenguished in prison for life, for the sake of her granddaughter''s life, as someone who already had one foot in the grave, what more did she have to fear?


    "Alright."


    Rong Dai nodded. She was extremely nervous and apprehensive inside too.


    What if the Blind Old Woman didn''t agree? Based on the distance she covered daily, her family didn''t live far away either.


    If they came over together, her n would fail and her situation would be even more dangerous!


    There''s a saying that three cobblers with their witsbined can match Zhuge Liang. She wasn''t even Zhuge Liang!

 Chapter 278: Make It Out

    <h4>Chapter 278</h4>


    When Rong Dai heard the other party agree, she let out a sigh of relief in her heart. She was really afraid that the other party would go back on their word. If that happened, she was afraid the only way she could leave this ce early would be when the other party wanted her to leave.


    She nced at the countless missed calls and WeChat messages on her phone, most of which were from Huo Shao Ting.


    She didn''t call Lu Nianzhi, but instead called Huo Shao Ting''s personal number. She didn''t know if Lu Nianzhi was busy or not. If Lu Nianzhi didn''t answer her call because she was dealing with something, things would get troublesome.


    Huo Shao Ting was sitting in the police station looking at the surveince footage brought out by Lu Hong when his phone that was sitting on the table rang with a familiar ringtone. He grabbed it in one swift movement, startling Lu Hong with his action.


    Just as Lu Hong was about to say something, seeing Huo Shao Ting''s gaze fixed intensely on the screen, he shut his mouth.


    "Can it be traced?" Huo Shao Ting''s voice was icy cold and creepy. Then he passed his phone with the iing call to Lu Hong.


    Seeing the note on it, Lu Hong immediately understood and quickly asked the tech team to start tracing the signal source.


    Only then did Huo Shao Ting answer the call and start recording it.


    "Shao Ting!" As soon as the call connected, Rong Dai called out immediately! Her emotions were hard to put into words, but she didn''t dare show it.


    Hearing Rong Dai''s voice, Huo Shao Ting''s whole body shook, and both his hands subconsciously grabbed the phone.


    "Where are you? How are you? Are you hurt?" Huo Shao Ting rapid fired three questions.


    He had rushed back overnight on a flight with no time difference adjustment or sleep, and hade straight to the police station. He didn''t expect that in the few days he was away, a blind fool hade knocking on death''s door!


    Hearing the anxiety in his words, Rong Dai''s nose soured and she almost cried.


    "I''m fine. I sent an ount number over, transfer 10 million into the ount...and don''t trace it."


    She didn''t forget the task at hand. The Blind Old Woman was still staring at her!


    10 million was not a small sum, butpared to her life, it was nothing.


    Moreover, she had already promised the Blind Old Woman. Although she was not an overly sympathetic person, the Blind Old Woman had said earlier that the 10 million was life-saving money.


    No matter who the Blind Old Woman wanted to save, she was using the money to save her own life.


    Huo Shao Ting listened to her words carefully. Rong Dai also longed to talk to him a bit more.


    But the Blind Old Woman somehow sat up and snatched the phone from her hand, directly hanging up.


    The Blind Old Woman was not stupid. She opened the call log from the phone Rong Dai had just used and sent the ount number herself.


    Then she turned off the phone and put it under her own pillow.


    Her remaining eye stared at Rong Dai, and she said, "Once the money arrives, I''ll take you down the mountain."


    Rong Dai nodded and sat down.


    In less than a few minutes, the Blind Old Woman''s old-fashioned mobile phone vibrated.


    The Blind Old Woman immediately turned it on and brought it close to scrutinize with her eye. After carefully counting ten times to confirm, she made a call and spoke in a dialect Rong Dai couldn''t understand.


    After hanging up, the Blind Old Woman got down from the kang with her gaze nted at Rong Dai, "I''ll take you down the mountain."


    Her voice was really unpleasant, hoarse and coarse, hurting Rong Dai''s ears.


    Rong Dai looked outside the wooden house into the pitch ckness.


    Thinking of the lone wolf from earlier, she felt somewhat reluctant in her heart to venture out.


    Traveling through such dense forests at night was an extremely dangerous thing.


    But she had no other choice. If she didn''t seize this opportunity, it wouldn''t be impossible for the Blind Old Woman to go back on her word by the next morning.


    She nodded, reached for her backpack. The Blind Old Woman held her phone in her hand with an icy cold gaze, "You''ll get it back once we reach the foot of the mountain."


    Rong Dai didn''t object either. She slung her backpack over her shoulder and took the lead to go to the storage room.


    She took a torch and put two daggers, which she had secretly sharpened over the past three days, into her bag.


    "Take this."


    The Blind Old Woman handed her a long, thin machete. Rong Dai took it without hesitation.


    It was currently the beginning of spring and there would be more wild animals out and about in the middle of the night in this dense forest.


    The Blind Old Woman locked up the wooden house properly and lit a torch. Rong Dai followed behind her as the two delved into the forest.


    The night forest was creepy. All kinds of subtle and strange sounds could be heard extra clearly.


    Although the Blind Old Woman was injured in the leg, she walked very nimbly, as if she felt no pain.


    Rong Dai didn''t ask much. She was vignt in her heart because she knew the way down the mountain.


    The Blind Old Woman kept her promise and led Rong Dai down the mountain all the way.


    There wereyers of peaks surrounding this mountain and the trees were very lush.


    It took the two women two hours to descend the mountain. Fortunately nothing dangerous happened along the way.


    Rong Dai was very vignt, her eyes scanning all around, worried that the old woman would y tricks.


    But she had overthought it. The Blind Old Woman only cared about money.


    Now that the money was in hand, she just wanted to hurry up and send Rong Dai away.


    She was greedy for money, not murder.


    But she was also afraid her greed would get the better of her, so she sent Rong Dai away to keep the problem out of sight and out of mind.


    "Go left at the three-way fork towards Shengjing. Here you go."


    The Blind Old Woman pointed to the three-way intersection ahead, then handed Rong Dai her phone and took out two somewhat hard corn cakes from her backpack to give her.


    Before Rong Dai could say anything, the Blind Old Woman gripped her torch and turned back into the woods. Rong Dai watched as the torch gradually disappeared into the dense forest.


    Rong Dai felt the tension in her heart slowly easing, but looking at the pitch ck dirt road, she still felt a little apprehensive.


    She had never walked on such a pitch ck road before. It was deathly quiet here and all she could hear was her own breathing.


    She left the edge of the forest and headed towards the left fork in the three-way intersection.


    Not fully trusting the Blind Old Woman��s words, she walked about seven to eight hundred meters along the three-way road and then stopped. She extinguished the torch and threw it at the roadside.


    Then she backtracked and walked along the middle road. Without even turning on her phone, she felt her way in the dark to crouch under a windproof boulder.


    After making sure there was no danger around, she took out her phone from her pocket. With one hand wrapped in her coat, she rapidly shared her location with Huo Shao Ting.


    Seeing the location she shared and finding that she was over two hundred kilometers from Shengjing, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes turned icy cold and terrifying!


    He didn''t call Rong Dai but sent her a message instead.


    He told her to stay put, keep location sharing on, protect herself well. He would be there immediately.


    Rong Dai swiftly replied and then turned off the phone screen, pricking up her ears to listen for sounds around her.


    She hadn''t slept well these past three days either and her eyelids were very heavy. But she had no choice but to stay alert to her surroundings. She was worried the Blind Old Woman woulde with people to look for her.

 Chapter 279: How cheap she is

    <h4>Chapter 279</h4>


    Rong Dai did not know that her careful misunderstanding had misunderstood the Blind Old Woman. She curled up into a ball and leaned against a rock out of the wind.


    Although the spring breeze was still a bit cold, she was so sleepy that she could barely keep her eyes open.


    She relied entirely on her willpower to prop herself up and not let herself fall asleep, but her head involuntarily nodded up and down.


    She hugged her phone tightly, hoping that Huo Shao Ting woulde soon.


    Suddenly, a gust of wind blew in and froze her, instantly waking her up fully!


    Rong Dai quickly looked around to make sure it was still safe, and she breathed a sigh of relief.


    She thought she had braced herself for a long time, but when she secretly nced at the time on her phone screen, she felt for the first time that time passed so slowly.


    She thought she had dozed off for at least an hour, but it turned out to only be a dozen minutes or so!


    She turned off the screen, pulled her already dirty coat tight, and vigntly looked around with her jet-ck eyes. There was no more sleepiness.


    The sound of the night wind blew a bit creepy. Rong Dai was glued to the rock without moving.


    "Didn''t you say that woman was walking this road? Where is she?"


    After about ten minutes or so, Rong Dai vaguely heard someone talking.


    She immediately became vignt, and her pair of jet-ck eyes narrowed.


    She pricked up her ears and listened carefully. Five or six minutester, the voices were getting closer, and there were two men!


    Who woulde out here to this remote ce sote at night?


    Moreover, there were mountains all around here, and no towns could be seen at all.


    She had juste down the mountain not long ago, and people hade along the road to find her so soon. This could not be such a coincidence.


    These past two days when the Blind Old Woman was away from the hut, she would always take the opportunity to sneak down the mountain and take a look. She didn''t see anyone around this ce.


    Now it was alreadyte into the night, and these two people appeared here at this time. She did not think they came here to take a walk and digest their meal.


    Rong Dai involuntarily slowed her breathing and curled up even tighter, while groping in her bag for a dagger and grasping it in her hand.


    "That damned old woman, she only asked for 100 million! If I had known it would be so easy to get money, I should have met that woman myself!"


    "She really made things easy for herself! When I get back, I must beat that old woman to death! That old thing that won''t die, not only doesn''t have the ability to give me a wealthy life of luxury, but also missed such a good opportunity and only took 100 million!"


    Rong Dai pricked up her ears and listened carefully.


    When she heard one of the men curse and seem to kick stones by the roadside to vent his anger, she couldn''t help but feel cold!


    As expected, human greed is endless like a snake swallowing an elephant!


    Even 100 million was still considered too little to them!


    If she didn''t have this embroidery skill, and didn''t inherit so much legacy from An Feiya, and her husband wasn''t from such an affluent family like the Huo''s.


    Which ordinary family could casually take out 100 million to ransom someone? Without even blinking an eye?


    However, that being said, if she were just an ordinary person without this status, she wouldn''t have been kidnapped in the first ce.


    Hearing the cursing sounds getting closer and closer, she hurried back to her senses. Every cell in her body was on high alert!


    She thought the path the Blind Old Woman had pointed out to her was wrong, but she didn''t expect it to be correct!


    Because these two men''s voices were getting closer and closer to her. She could even clearly hear their footsteps.


    Rong Dai unconsciously held her breath, trying to shrink her body as much as possible to avoid being seen.


    Although it was night now, the other party was shining shlights around everywhere. A little carelessness could lead to her discovery.


    Rong Dai''s heart was in her throat.


    If it was one on one, she was still confident in her fist and kick skills.


    But all of a sudden there were two men. She didn''t stand a chance at all!


    Rong Dai kept listening carefully to what these two men were saying while quickly thinking about countermeasures. She had to prepare for the worst.


    These were two men. If she was caught by them, anything could happen!


    Robbery she could still barely ept, although it would still sting a lot. But losing her chastity, she would rather die than give in!


    Rong Dai''s mind was full of the worst possible oues. Her heart pounded loudly like beating a drum. Her palms were full of sticky sweat.


    "How did that woman get away so quickly? Are you sure the olddy told you the right path?"


    This time it was the other person speaking, full of suspicion in his tone.


    Rong Dai feltplicated.


    Just now, for safety reasons, she didn''t keep walking straight down the path on the left.


    She didn''t expect the Blind Old Woman to be so credible. She had dug a pit for herself.


    The two men suddenly stopped nearby. Rong Dai heard the sound of a lighter, followed by the smell of smoke drifting downwind.


    She wrinkled her nose, held her breath, and gripped the dagger tightly!


    If they found her and made a move, she would not be polite!


    These people had lost all conscience. Even death would not be a pity for them!


    The two men stood in ce chattering, probably smoking two cigarettes�� time, before starting to walk again.


    Hearing their footsteps getting farther and farther away, Rong Dai finally breathed a sigh of relief at this point.


    But she didn''t dare make any rash moves either, still staying motionless by the rocks.


    What she didn''t expect was that the two men returned half an hourter, and stayed at the previous spot for more than ten minutes again.


    Rong Dai��s heart nearly jumped out of her throat!


    Fortunately, the two did not find her hiding ce this time either. When their footsteps gradually faded away, she finally rxed.


    After the two men hadpletely walked away, Rong Dai realized that half of her body had gone numb and stiff.


    Plus her highly strained nerves from earlier. It made her dizzy and see spots float by.


    To prevent herself from fainting, she bit into the muscle below her thumb.


    The pain came, and after a moment she could see clearly again.


    She panted heavily with open mouth, but didn��t dare make a peep.


    She looked at the time on her phone, a full hour had passed.


    The surroundings were silent, only asionally some noises of animals from the surrounding mountains could be heard.


    Such an environment would subconsciously make people tense up. Rong Dai was no exception.


    She buried her head in her coat, opened her phone and looked at their shared location.


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting��s dot getting closer and closer to her, her heart pounded wildly again!


    She was eager to get away from this ce, and also to see him sooner!


    Whether it was before rebirth or after rebirth, the unbelievable things she had experienced were really too many!


    Her experience over the past four days was like a nightmare to her!


    She also didn��t expect that she could be kidnapped in broad daylight even in a big metropolitan city like Shenjing!


    Rong Dai gripped her phone tightly, watching the red dot getting closer and closer. From the distance came the ��whirring�� sound of helicopter rotor des from the night sky.


    She suddenly raised her head to look up at the sky. Two helicopters appeared!

 Chapter 280: I Want to Go Home

    <h4>Chapter 280</h4>


    Rong Dai suddenly burst into tears, disregarding everything as she struggled to stand up from under the rock. However, her legs were numb from being curled up, and she stumbled as she tried to stand steadily, instantly scraping her palms on the sharp pebbles!


    But Rong Dai didn''t care about any of that. She was so agitated and nervous that her whole body was shaking!


    She hurriedly took out her phone, turned on the shlight, and waved it above her head!


    "Madam is over there, President Huo!"


    Zhang Assistant was in the co-pilot seat with Huo Shao Ting. Because it was nighttime, Rong Dai''s phone shlight was bright enough to be easily noticeable.


    Huo Shao Ting had a cold and solemn expression, with stubble grown on his chin and bloodshot eyes.


    He naturally saw it too.


    Seeing her alone, tied up here in these steep mountains, she must have been scared out of her wits these past few days and certainly suffered greatly.


    His heart felt like it was being viciously stabbed with needles, and his heart was like it had seven or eight huge holes leaking air, throbbing painfully!


    Huo Shao Ting held the control stick and gradually decreased the helicopter''s altitude.


    The huge noise from the helicopter startled the birds and beasts in the deep woods. The two men who had been lurking around looking for Rong Dai also heard the sound.


    When the two men saw the helicopters appear, their faces changed drastically!


    The two men quickly turned off their shlights and snuck into the woods to observe. They naturally also saw Rong Dai waving her phone shlight.


    "Damn it! That woman was right under our feet earlier!"


    The two men were extremely furious, but didn''t daree out now. They could only gnash their teeth in hatred!


    Although the surroundings were steep mountains, the three-way fork in the road was a dirt road that was very t. Both helicoptersnded smoothly.


    When Rong Dai saw the man she had been longing for day and night appear, her tears flowed like a burst dam, streaming down her face!


    She desperately wanted to call out his name, but no sound came out of her throat, and her legs felt as heavy as lead.


    She could only cry while waving her phone shlight around like an idiot.


    Huo Shao Ting got out of the helicopter and immediately sprinted toward that bright light!


    It was because he hadn''t protected her well, allowing her to be frightened over and over again.


    "Wife..."


    He ran up to Rong Dai, breathing heavily, but his voice was exceptionally gentle, and a little self-reproachful.


    Seeing Rong Dai with tears running down her slightly haggard face, he felt like his heart was being sliced!


    He stepped forward and pulled her into his embrace, not bothered by her stench. He kissed her hair.


    "I''m sorry, I camete..."


    If she hadn''t been so clever, he didn''t dare imagine what would have happened.


    He had almost lost her...


    Just thinking about it made him unable to breathe from heartache!


    Rong Dai was pressed tightly against his chest. Her once restless heart was now like a small boat that had returned to a safe harbor.


    She cried mournfully, her beautiful eyes red and swollen.


    "Shao Ting, I, I almost didn''t get to see you again..."


    Rong Dai sobbed as she spoke, her tone full of grievance.


    She had never imagined that she would have such a fragile side, that she would actually be scared to tears like this.


    But she just couldn''t control herself. Seeing the man she had been desperately thinking of appear, she simply couldn''t hold it in!


    "That won''t happen, I''m here. Your husband is right here."


    Huo Shao Ting held her tightly, practically stuffing her into his embrace.


    Rong Dai cried like a wronged little girl, an emotion she would absolutely never show normally.


    The short few days of this experience felt as long as a century.


    She had figured out many, many things.


    She was Huo Shao Ting''s wife, his woman, and he was her husband.


    So what if she was being a bit oversentimental?


    Because Huo Shao Ting gave her warmth, love, stability and security.


    So she was also willing to "let go" of herself, no longer wanting any restraints.


    In the world between her and Huo Shao Ting, she would forever be a favored princess.


    "I, I want to go home."


    Rong Dai looked up at him, barely managing to stop her crying, though she couldn''t make her hups stop.


    Huo Shao Ting held her as he gazed at her, lowering his eyes. He kissed her lips, then slowly kissed away the tear streaks on her cheeks.


    He had to remember this agonizing pain and fright, so he would learn his lesson, would understand how to protect her.


    Rong Dai looked at him like this as her heart gradually calmed down.


    "We''ll go home."


    Huo Shao Ting said softly and lifted her in his arms.


    Rong Dai nodded. Her head nestled against him securely as her arms wrapped around his neck.


    "You''re hurt?"


    Huo Shao Ting smelled blood and his brow immediately furrowed!


    Only then did Rong Dai notice her still bleeding hand.


    "I fell earlier. It will be fine after I wash up when we get back."


    Huo Shao Ting strengthened his hold on her, as his lips drew into a tight line. He quickened his pace back to the helicopter.


    It was only at that moment that Zhang Assistant, Lu Hong, and Lu Nianzhi caught up. Seeing Rong Dai with bloody hands shocked them all!


    But the three were very tactful and dared not speak up.


    After all, Rong Dai''s hands were priceless, and Huo Shao Ting''s expression was murderous. His appearance alone was chilling!


    Huo Shao Ting also ignored the three. He swiftly reached the helicopter with Rong Dai in his arms, and assisted her up into the helicopter. His icy gaze swept across Zhang Assistant. "You''re driving."


    Zhang Assistant dared not hesitate as he scrambled onto the helicopter.


    Once on board the helicopter, Rong Dai finally gradually collected her thoughts. She turned to Lu Hong.


    "If you don''t mind, search along the woods on both sides of these two roads. There were two men lurking around trying to find me earlier."


    Lu Hong''s face darkened. He immediately directed two armed police officers to search.


    "President Huo, you guys head back first. We''ll take care of things over here."


    Lu Hong could see Huo Shao Ting''s displeasure and promptly opened his mouth to speak.


    "I, I''ll go with you guys."


    Lu Nianzhi had lost her appetite these past days from anxiety. Finally seeing Rong Dai safe and sound, she felt her heart settle atst.


    "Sorry, Sister Nianzhi, to have made you worry."


    Rong Dai''s gaze fell upon Lu Nianzhi''s haggard face. Seeing that she was even more worn out than herself, Rong Dai knew that she must have been scared these past few days too.


    "As long as you''re alright, it was my failure..."


    "Quiet or you''re walking home yourself."


    Before Lu Nianzhi could finish speaking, Huo Shao Ting interjected coldly.


    Rong Dai gave an apologetic look to Lu Nianzhi.


    Lu Nianzhi was merely her assistant, not her personal bodyguard.


    Besides, it wasn''t her job to watch over Rong Dai 24/7 either.


    The faulty entirely with those malicious people without consciences!


    Soon after, the helicopter rotor made a huge noise as the aircraft slowly left the ground, flying towards Shengjing.


    Once the helicopter climbed to a stable cruising altitude, Huo Shao Ting got out the first aid kit to treat the wounds on Rong Dai''s hands.

 Chapter 281: Dare His Wife

    <h4>Chapter 281</h4>


    Rong Dai''s wound was not deep, but it did scrape off arge piece of skin.


    Rong Dai took very good care of her hands, and they were also very beautiful. Fortunately, it was just an abrasion, otherwise it would leave scars like the one on her ankle.


    Huo Shao Ting treated it very carefully and attentively.


    Just now, Rong Dai''s entire body was in a state of high tension and excitement, so she didn''t feel much pain.


    It was not until Huo Shao Ting disinfected her with hydrogen peroxide that she couldn''t help gasping.


    "It''ll be over soon. There is debris in it that needs to be cleaned thoroughly."


    Huo Shao Ting turned to look at her, his voice gentle and distressed as he urged her.


    Rong Dai nodded. She didn''t want her hands ruined either.


    It is said that a woman''s hands are her second face. She didn''t want any ws.


    With professional training, Huo Shao Ting treated it quickly and properly. Soon he had neatly bandaged her.


    Lu Nianzhi sat next to the couple, unable to lend a hand or dare say anything.


    Rong Dai didn''t think it was Lu Nianzhi''s fault. It was her ownck of vignce.


    She had been very tired these past few days. Although she wanted to know how things were going with TK, she was exhausted.


    "Lie down and rest. Don''t worry about anything else."


    Rong Dai nodded very obediently and leaned against him.


    Just as shey down, she suddenly remembered what the Blind Old Woman had said.


    At first, she didn''t believe the Blind Old Woman would be so kind as to tell her the truth. But judging from what just happened...


    The Blind Old Woman didn''t lie to her, she still had some conscience.


    The Blind Old Woman had said earlier that as soon as the money was in hand, she would tell her who kidnapped her.


    She quickly took out her phone. The blood on it had dried.


    She rubbed it roughly on her clothes and indeed saw an unread message.


    She tapped it open and saw only a very short text message with one sentence: That man is called Brother Long.


    Was this a nickname?


    Jin Cheng was so big. Where would she go to find someone called "Brother Long"?


    Rong Dai was a little dumbfounded. Although she felt mocked, she knew that people doing such shady business were also afraid, so not using real names was to be expected.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Seeing her change of expression, Huo Shao Ting asked.


    Rong Dai handed the phone to him and then closed her eyes and said peacefully, "The old woman guarding me these days has one eye. She said she has done a lot of things like this before."


    "She said earlier she would tell me who the other party was. It should be this Brother Long."


    "It''s just that the information she gave probably won''t be very useful since there are not a few people with the nickname Brother Long."


    This matter could only be slowly investigated afterwards.


    What happened that day was too sudden, and the Blind Old Woman was very tight-lipped, unwilling to tell her anything more.


    Since the other party did not seed this time, there would definitely be a next time.


    "Sleep. I''ll look into this. Don''t worry."


    Huo Shao Ting tidied her bangs, his voice gentle as he urged her.


    No matter whether the other party was called Brother Long or Brother Dog, as long as he existed, Huo Shao Ting would dig him out even if he had to dig three feet into the ground!


    Dare to move his wife, that was challenging Huo Shao Ting himself!


    Unless Huo Shao Ting was dead, otherwise that person would definitely not get away with it!


    Rong Dai felt relieved. She didn''t want to let the other party get away either.


    If something had gone a little wrong with the Blind Old Woman guarding her, considering her looks, what could happen was almost foreseeable.


    At least Luo Ran was still a woman. She didn''t have such worries.


    But when she heard the conversation between the two men under the rock just now, her heart froze with horror and fear!


    What if the person guarding her these days was not the Blind Old Woman, but one of those two men?


    She would rather die than suffer such a fate.


    Or be unable to even beg for death.


    Just thinking about that kind of situation made her hair stand on end!


    Therefore, no matter how long it took or how much money was spent, she had to find the perpetrator!


    Because of Huo Shao Ting, and because she had been so tense these past few days, she fell asleep within seconds.


    Huo Shao Ting covered her with a nket. From the corner of his eye he saw Lu Nianzhi looking ufortable. He knew the incident wasn''t really Lu Nianzhi''s fault.


    "I hope this is thest time," he said, his voice cold and hard, full of authority.


    Although she wasn''t to me, Lu Nianzhi was still negligent.


    Why didn''t the two women take bodyguards when they went out?


    If Lu Nianzhi was an assistant while Rong Dai was now something of a public figure, it was negligent of her not to have thought of this.


    Lu Nianzhi''s face instantly turned pale. She nodded silently.


    Seeing the sleeping Rong Dai, the tension of recent days finally left her.


    If this happened again, she would probably have tomit ritual suicide to apologize.


    Huo Shao Ting ignored her and was about to put away Rong Dai''s phone when he saw a message prompt shing on the screen.


    Seeing an iing message, he thought for a few seconds before tapping it open.


    It was a picture message, clearly showing the man known as Brother Long.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were extremely deep. He copied the picture message and sent it to his own phone.


    "Mr. Huo, um, can I take a look? More people will make it easier to find him."


    Lu Nianzhi glimpsed the picture message and carefully asked him.


    Huo Shao Ting forwarded it to her, and also to Lu Hong.


    Rong Dai slept very deeply until Huo Shao Ting took her back to their little home in Huafu Mountain Town and put her in the bathtub before she blearily woke up.


    She was stunned for a few seconds before she could see clearly. Her face instantly turned red.


    "I..."


    "Your hands can''t get wet, or they might get infected."


    Seeing her reaction, Huo Shao Ting immediately realized what she was going to say.


    Before Rong Dai could get the words out, he preempted her.


    Rong Dai instantly woke uppletely. Her heart pounded wildly and her cheeks flushed crimson.


    The steam quickly heated up the bathroom.


    But Huo Shao Ting didn''t do anything except conscientiously wash her.


    Rong Dai''s tense nerves gradually rxed as well. Watching Huo Shao Ting in his white shirt, she couldn''t help swallowing.


    Although he had been away on business for less than half a month, it felt like centuries to her.


    She hooked her arms around his neck and took the initiative to offer her lips.


    "Don''t make trouble. You''re injured."


    Huo Shao Ting was already exerting great self-control. Just getting close to her, even just looking at her made him feel like there was a raging fire burning inside him!


    Rong Dai''s eyes suddenly darkened. She let go of him and grabbed the towel on the edge of the tub to cover herself, gazing at him solemnly and seriously.

 Chapter 282: If you get on my boat, you can鈥檛 get off.

    <h4>Chapter 282</h4>


    When Huo Shao Ting saw her suddenly changed expression, he knew what she wanted to say. Afraid that she would misunderstand and get angry, he exined hurriedly: "I''m just worried that you are too tired..."


    "Shao Ting, I''m asking you, if this time I didn''t protect myself well and got vited by others, would you still love me like you do now?"


    Rong Dai stretched out her hand to cover his thin lips, and asked him in a very calm yet extremely serious voice.


    Just thinking about what had happened this time still made her feel terrified afterward.


    It was really too dangerous!


    Moreover, it was something that she simply couldn''t control. Women were inherently disadvantaged. If she really encountered such a situation, even someone like her who had been an empress for thirty years would feel disturbed.


    But she didn''t want to die. She knew better than anyone that living well was more important than anything!


    Yet she also couldn''t ept her body one day bing mutted.


    If a woman could fight back against an assant, the perpetrator would probably be dead on the scene.


    This was humiliating!


    Intolerable for any normal woman.


    The world looked really beautiful, but she was someone who had gone through darkness.


    So she knew well that behind the beautiful surface of this world, there was always an insidious, dangerous side that could never see the sunlight.


    In her previous life, she hadn��t thought about such childish hypothetical questions, nor would she ask them.


    After being reborn, even after going through Zuo Ran��s assault, she still hadn��t thought to ask him such childish questions before this incident.


    She knew that no matter if asked of a man or woman, such questions were a test.


    If the answer was what she wanted to hear, she still might not be satisfied and would still feel worried.


    If the answer wasn��t what she wanted, their rtionship probably couldn��t continue.


    Yet the human heart was always soplicated.


    "I want to hear your true thoughts."


    She stared fixedly into his eyes and added very seriously.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her, then turned around to raise the temperature of the bathroom heater a few degrees and brought her over a cup of warm water.


    He knew that she had really been scared by what happened this time.


    Otherwise, with her experience, she wouldn''t ask such hypothetical questions.


    But her question made him vaguely want to get angry. Still, on second thought, it was because she loved him that she asked this.


    He knelt on the mat by the bathtub, raised his hand to caress her cheek, his deep eyes gazing straight at hers.


    "First, I won''t let this happen."


    "Second, if something like this did happen, I hope you won''t give up on yourself. It wasn''t your willing choice. Because I want to hold your hand and be with you forever."


    "No matter what you experience or what you be, my love for you won''t change. In the future, no matter what happens, I will share it with you."


    "Third, you''re my wife. I married you myself. To me, this is not just an emotion, but also a responsibility and an obligation."


    "I can''t just enjoy and ept your goodness, then dislike your ws and experiences. Because if something like this happened, it would be my fault, because I didn''t protect you well. Even more, I would have no right or qualification to dislike you."


    "Fourth, every word I say to you remains valid forever."


    Huo Shao Ting recalled when he first found her yesterday, crying like that, and when he hugged her, he clearly felt her body trembling.


    He knew she was afraid and panicked.


    How could he not also be afraid and panicked?


    Afraid topletely lose her forever, because of deep love, so there were so many concerns and worries.


    Rong Dai thought he would just simply answer, but didn''t expect that he would answer this question so solemnly and seriously.


    Moreover, his answer made the tip of her nose sour.


    This man, she couldn''t leave him for the rest of her life.


    "With me here, as long as you don''t give up, I won''t let go of your hand. I won''t allow you to let go either."


    "Once on my pirate ship, you can''t get off anymore, okay?"


    Huo Shao Ting saw her slightly flushed rims and lightly kissed her forehead. His voice was gentle and indulgent as he spoke to her.


    Rong Dai''s heart softened. She couldn''t help but put her arms around his neck again and looked up at him. Her voice was soft and tender as she answered, "Okay..."


    Then she took the initiative to offer her lips. Huo Shao Ting''s breathing immediately became ragged. The two looked into each other''s eyes.


    Having long been familiar with one another, just one look between them was enough to understand.


    That night, the temperature in the little family was extremely high. Rong Dai didn''t even know how she fell asleep.


    Probably because both hadcked sleep these past few days and were a little tired fromst night''s passion, they slept until noon before waking up.


    When Rong Dai opened her eyes and saw him lying right next to her, it felt like her heart waspletely filled: filled with warmth and satisfaction.


    "Rest a bit longer, I''ll go make food," Huo Shao Ting said, reaching over to put his arm around her and kissing the tip of her nose.


    Only after seeing her face''s color restored did he feel relieved.


    Rong Dai leaned against him and looked up, shaking her head, "I have to get up. Grandma and Mom must be worried sick. I''ll go see them."


    "I called themst night already. Grandma has been busy socializing these days anyway and doesn''t have time. Just rest well," Huo Shao Ting said.


    He didn''t want her to tire herself out.


    "Then I''ll give Mom a callter," she answered softly, nestled against him like a pampered little cat.


    Huo Shao Ting smiled helplessly and stroked her hair indulgently. "Alright, what do you want to eat today?"


    It had only been a few days since seeing her. She had suffered hardship and torment in that ce for days. The few pounds she had finally gained were gone again.


    His little wife needed good nurturing. She had to be cared for until fair and delicate again.


    "Spicy... I want spicy food..." she said with a spoiled tone in his embrace.


    Although she had eaten game food up in the mountains these past few days: that blind grandma''s cooking skills were pretty good too: there was no chili pepper.


    "Okay..." Huo Shao Ting gave another indulgent kiss on her forehead and reluctantly got out of bed.


    Seeing him standing stark naked before her again, Rong Dai couldn''t help her ears turning red, yet her eyes uncontrobly kept staring.


    Huo Shao Ting kept strict control of his figure. The muscr lines on his body were extremely aesthetically pleasing.


    Moreover, she was extremely addicted to his body!


    After Huo Shao Ting went out wearing house clothes, Rong Dai finally let out a soft sigh and retracted her gaze. Shey in bed thinking for a few more minutes beforezily getting up.


    When changing clothes in the walk-in closet, seeing the messy marks all over her body in the mirror, her breathing became scorchingly hot!


    Recallingst night''s passion, the corners of her lips curled up slightly. After changing, she stood in front of the mirror, looking at her still t belly. She couldn''t help reaching out to caress it longingly, a hint of loss in her eyes.


    Counting it out, she and Shao Ting often intimately made love. Plus neither had taken preventative measures. Why hadn''t she conceived?


    Qiao Wanzhou with Zhou Jing only took half a year without even trying. Could there be something wrong with her body?

 Chapter 283: Get Checked Out at the Hospital

    <h4>Chapter 283</h4>


    "Take some time to go to the hospital."


    Rong Dai looked at herself in the mirror, concerned about the asional dizziness she experienced. She felt a bit worried.


    After talking to herself, she left the dressing room and went downstairs to the kitchen to see Huo Shao Ting cooking.


    "It''ll be ready in a little while."


    When Rong Dai hugged him from behind, Huo Shao Ting turned around and smiled gently.


    Rong Dai rested her chin on his shoulder, smelling the aroma of the food, and her stomach couldn''t help but protest.


    "Do you need any help?"


    She asked.


    "Contribute your hands by hugging me, that''s enough."


    Huo Shao Ting replied, his handsome face focused on cooking.


    Rong Dai''s pretty cheeks lit up with a smile. She made a nasal sound from her nose and rested her head on his back, embracing his waist, feeling incredibly safe and warm.


    The meal was quickly served, and Rong Dai, whether due to her good mood or the delicious food cooked by Huo Shao Ting, ate tworge bowls.


    The consequence of eating too much was feeling incredibly full.


    She drank tea to relieve the heaviness, while Huo Shao Ting changed into a suit and came to her side. He bent down and kissed her cheek, saying, "I''m going to thepany to handle some matters. Rest well at home."


    "If you want to go out, please take the bodyguard with you, okay?"


    Rong Dai put down her teacup, turned around, and hugged him, looking apologetic in her eyes. "Did I dy your business trip this time?"


    He had mentioned the duration of the business trip before, which could be as short as half a month or as long as a month.


    But he had only been gone for a short while when this incident happened to her, forcing him toe back.


    She was aware of the crisis in thepany because she had heard about it from her grandmother.


    And this time, he was dealing with something rted to the nning of the second master Huo''s family. Although he made it sound simple, she knew it wouldn''t be as straightforward as he described.


    "Everything''s taken care of, don''t worry."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with an indulgent gaze. As long as he looked at her, a warm and indulgent smile always graced his handsome face.


    "Trust your husband''s abilities. If you''re tired, go and rest. Don''t overthink about other matters when you have your husband around, alright?"


    Rong Dai''s heart warmed, and after seeing the time on the wall clock, she stood on tiptoe and kissed his thin lips. "I''ll be waiting for you at home."


    Huo Shao Ting responded, and then he left.


    After watching him leave, Rong Dai turned back to the living room and picked up the new phone that Huo Shao Ting had given her to browse through.


    All the photos she had taken were copied onto it, and after looking at a few of them, she remembered that she needed to call her mother-inw.


    Lu Zheng had indeed been quite frightened these past few days. After all, it hadn''t been long since the incident with Zuo Ran, and now she had been kidnapped!


    When Lu Zheng found the person and brought them backst night, she had contemteding over to see her, but her son didn''t allow it. After learning about the situation, she didn''t insist anymore.


    When she received a call from Rong Dai, she immediately answered.


    Rong Dai first reported that she was safe, and then she criticized herself.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s sensible behavior, Lu Zheng couldn''t bring herself to scold her anymore. She reminded her to be more careful when going out in the future and preferably bring a bodyguard along.


    "Thank you, Mom. I will be careful from now on."


    Rong Dai obediently responded, as she, being a woman herself, naturally understood some of the vulnerabilities women have.


    Mother-inw Lu Zheng was a person who spoke harshly but had a soft heart. As long as Rong Dai maintained the right attitude, Lu Zheng wouldn''t argue with her or scold her, and thus, conflicts would naturally be avoided.


    "As long as you know, dear. Whenever you have time,e back with Shaoting for a meal. Your grandmother hasn''t been sleeping well these past few days."


    Lu Zheng instructed her.


    Rong Dai acknowledged each request and, towards the end, suddenly asked, "Mom, do you know of any good gynecology hospitals? I... have been unable to conceive, and I''m a bit worried."


    "If Mom knows of any good hospitals, I''ll rmend them to you. I''ll go for a check-up myself. If there''s any minor issue, I''ll address it promptly."


    Lu Zheng was surprised by her question.


    After all, times had changed, and most married women were strongly against being pressured to have children.


    Although she was also anxious about this matter, she refrained from asking too much.


    What use would it be for a mother-inw to worry about such things?


    If her own son wasn''t making an effort or had issues himself, how could Rong Dai bear a child alone?


    But she hadn''t expected Rong Dai to ask her proactively and also show great concern about this matter.


    Lu Zheng instantly smiled, and even her tone softened significantly as she spoke, "Mom will have to check and see. Once we find out, I''ll apany you, alright?"


    "Thank you for your trouble, Mom."


    Rong Dai obediently replied, and the tension between the mother-inw and daughter-inw was instantly relieved.


    Lu Zheng gave her some instructions, and Rong Dai patiently listened to all of them.


    She hung up only after Lu Zheng mentioned having something else to attend to.


    Rong Dai''s mouth felt a bit dry, so she finished the red tea in her cup. Just as she was about to go online and catch up on the news from the past few days, she received a call from Lu Nianzhi.


    "Sister Nianzhi."


    Without hesitation, she answered the call.


    On the other end of the line, Lu Nianzhi lowered her voice and asked, "Rong Dai, is Mr. Huo still at home?"


    These past few days, Lu Nianzhi had been restless. Although she had found Rong Dai and confirmed that she was safest night, her guilt hadn''t diminished. She wanted to have a proper conversation with Rong Dai.


    "He went to thepany. If you have the time, Sister Nianzhi, it would be great if you coulde over to my ce. There are some things I''d like to ask you."


    Rong Dai replied in a gentle voice.


    She was too tired and sleepy on the helicopterst night, so she didn''t say much to Lu Nianzhi.


    But she knew that Lu Nianzhi must have been extremely worried these past few days!


    "I''lle right away!"


    Upon hearing Rong Dai''s words, Lu Nianzhi immediately perked up. She put on her coat and shoes while speaking.


    Fifteen minutester, Lu Nianzhi arrived at Rong Dai''s house, carrying a bunch of things in her hands.


    Rong Dai looked carefully and realized that they were the items they had bought together while shopping that day.


    "Sister Nianzhi, did you take too much? These things weren''t the ones I bought."


    She noticed that there were two pieces of luxury jewelry that she hadn''t purchased, so she pointed them out separately.


    Lu Nianzhi quickly waved his hand, "No, no, no, this is for you! I''m giving it to you! If you don''t ept it, I''ll feel guilty and won''t be able to assist you properly at work."


    Rong Dai looked at the two luxury items. She remembered that she had onlymented on their appearance when she saw them in the shop window that day, but she didn''t expect Lu Nianzhi not only remembered but also bought them for her.


    "Nianzhi, it''s not your fault, actually. Even if it wasn''t that day, the other party would have chosen another day to strike. It was my carelessness that caused it."


    "You don''t need to me yourself or feel guilty. If anyone should be buying gifts, it should be me giving them to you."


    "If it weren''t for your help during this period, I don''t know what chaos and confusion I would have faced! This matter has already passed, so you don''t need to worry about it or put pressure on yourself."


    "Otherwise, if you keep dwelling on this matter, I won''t be able to focus on our coboration. Working with you isfortable, and I don''t want to lose such apatible partner like you!"


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and spoke sincerely, her gaze towards Lu Nianzhi particrly genuine.

 Chapter 284: She Doubted Shi Ning

    <h4>Chapter 284</h4>


    When Lu Nianzhi heard her say this, she felt much better.


    These past few days, she had felt extremely uneasy. She paid extra attention to any bit of news about Rong Dai!


    She thought Rong Dai would me her.


    After all, this was also due to her negligence.


    Although Rong Dai didn''t think so, if she had been more thoughtful at the time, perhaps this dangerous incident wouldn''t have happened.


    "Try the tea I brewed. See how it tastes," Rong Dai saw her look more rxed, so she poured her a cup of tea and handed it over.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, cradling the hot tea and drinking a few sips to settle her messy thoughts.


    "How are things on TK''s side now? Their big show is tomorrow."


    Rong Dai sat down. Other than her own safety, what she cared most about these past few days in the mountains was the TK fashion show.


    There was still no news yet about whose design TK had selected!


    She had almost missed out on such a good opportunity.


    It was at this moment that Lu Nianzhi regained her senses. Hearing Rong Dai ask about work, she immediately perked up.


    Since Rong Dai trusted her so much, she had to do an even better job!


    "TK doesn''t announce the news. They only reveal who the winning designer is after the fashion show," Lu Nianzhi exined again.


    Rong Dai nodded. She was just feeling impatient.


    The main reason was that she had been kidnapped like this for no reason at all, leaving herpletely confused.


    Moreover, from what the Blind Old Woman said, the other party wanted her to miss TK''s fashion show this time.


    Not many people knew she was participating... But after the incident at the He Winery, and especially after she had a pleasant chat with TK''s head Ha Wei, it was inevitable thatpetitors would find out.


    But not many outsiders knew about her embroidery skills.


    Except for Shi Ning from the Brocade Workshop...


    She sank into thought.


    But on second thought, she didn''t have any basis for such spection.


    The Brocade Workshop already held an unparalleled position in the industry within China, and certainly had no need topete with aplete nobody like herself.


    She couldn''t think so badly of Shi Ning''s character and suspect her to be so vicious, just because she had doubts about her.


    "Rong Dai, what''s wrong? Are you feeling ufortable anywhere?" Lu Nianzhi asked when she saw Rong Dai lost in thought.


    Rong Dai came back to her senses and shook her head: "I was just thinking about some other things, continue what you were saying."


    After making sure Rong Dai was alright, Lu Nianzhi went on talking about work matters.


    "You haven''t been around these past few days, but I''ve already packaged the embroidered pieces and delivered them to TK."


    "Thank you for the hard work," Rong Dai nodded.


    "This time, to enter the Asian market, TK has made the Fashion Week into a spring/summer collection and released such news to generate hype and attract eyeballs."


    Rong Dai nodded. She understood this logic of course.


    "I received the invitations yesterday. We''ll go watch the show together tomorrow too. You have to be psychologically prepared."


    "Because TK has done great promotion this time and generated a lot of hype, if you be one of their partner brands this time, your works will take off." As she spoke, Lu Nianzhi analyzed TK''s approach this time for Rong Dai.


    Generally speaking, fashion shows in February-March showcase next autumn/winter pieces, while shows in September-October feature next spring/summer pieces. The shows usuallyst about a week.


    But this time, TK had flipped the approach in order to attract attention and enter the Asian market.


    Rong Dai nodded. She understood this reasoning of course.


    "TK has prepared 3 fashion shows this time. Tomorrow''s opening show is at 7 pm. We''ll need to arrive by 5:30 pm. The catwalk starts at 8 pm," Lu Nianzhi continued exining the process of watching the fashion show to Rong Dai.

 Chapter 285: The Only Guest

    <h4>Chapter 285</h4>


    "TK''s three fashion shows this time are divided into three days, not following the usual fashion week schedule, and the time for each show is also extended to within two hours," said Lu Nianzhi as she told Rong Dai about thetest information from TK.


    "Many top celebrities in China have been invited. ording to the news I received, you are the only guest who can watch all three fashion shows. Even the Brocade Embroidery Workshop does not have this privilege."


    Rong Dai did not really understand much about these things. She had only read news about fashion before, and had not systematically learned about fashion shows and the like, so she listened very carefully.


    "There are two indoor shows and one outdoor show. If you haven''t prepared your outfit yet, we can still go shopping today for brands that are still coborating with TK."


    Lu Nianzhi reminded her and added after thinking for a moment, "Guests invited to fashion shows usually wear or incorporate the brand''s clothing or jewelry."


    "TK does not have a dedicated counter in China yet. I have some rare collectible TK jewelry from earlier years. If you need them, I can take them out for you."


    Rong Dai did not expect that she would have to pay attention to these formalities. Even if she had money now, she would not be able to buy TK brand jewelry!


    "Then I''ll have to trouble you," she said.


    "Rong Dai, thank you for trusting me so much. You don''t have to be so polite with me," Lu Nianzhi said sincerely as she looked into her eyes.


    Rong Dai smiled and nodded. After discussing some work matters, Lu Nianzhi finally turned the topic to Rong Dai being kidnapped.


    "The news of your kidnapping is making a lot of noise online now. I think we need to make an announcement," Lu Nianzhi reminded her.


    Thinking of the vicious curses online, she couldn��t help but want to trace those unscrupulousizens and tear them to shreds!


    How could there be such vicious people in this world?


    They were unrted to Rong Dai, yet they wished her harm!


    The human heart really could not be overestimated.


    Rong Dai also did not know why, but her mind kept associating the kidnapping with Shi Ning.


    She pondered for a moment and shook her head. "No need for now. With TK��s preparations this time and the many media they have invited, it would be more direct for me to show up at the event tomorrow."


    "If I post something online, they might still suspect someone is impersonating me. It''s better not to have to spar with them verbally."


    Although she had not had a chance to go online and check the keyboard warriors��ments yet, she had guessed what they were saying.


    These people, just to make themselves feel better, never considered the consequences of what they did and said, nor took any responsibility.


    People like this were no less vicious than murderers.


    Lu Nianzhi thought about it and nodded in agreement with Rong Dai��s approach.


    At that moment, Lu Nianzhi��s phone rang. She was busy with work and had many people who needed to contact her, so her phone was always ringing.


    "Sorry, let me take this call first," Lu Nianzhi said hurriedly as she got up with her phone and walked over to the window.


    Rong Dai nodded and took a sip of hot tea, pondering over other things in her mind.


    "Xu Chuan, we have no rtionship anymore! So stop bothering me!"


    "If you harass me again, I''ll call the police directly!"


    Rong Dai''s thoughts were interrupted by Lu Nianzhi''s angry shouts. She couldn''t help but nce over at Lu Nianzhi.


    She didn''t seem to recall Lu Nianzhi ever losing herposure like this before, and her curiosity was piqued.


    Whenever Lu Nianzhi thought of Xu Chuan, her heart was filled with hatred and disgust, and her eyes were full of loathing!


    She had never imagined that one day she would be disgusted by a man she had once loved so deeply to this extent!

 Chapter 286: Lu Nienzhi鈥檚 Pain

    <h4>Chapter 286</h4>


    This time it was because of his appearance that disturbed her mood, which caused her to lose Rong Dai and allowed Rong Dai to fall into such a dangerous situation.


    She hadn''t even settled the score with him yet, but instead, he actually got a new number to harass her again!


    What else does he want to do?


    When the incident happened, other than saying "I''m sorry", did he have any other exnation?


    She had already chosen to let go and make way for him.


    Now that he has a child and a wife, and is living a happy and perfect life, why is he still provoking her?


    Could it be that he still wants to rekindle their old affair and have a passionate extramarital affair?


    What does Xu Chuan think Lu Nianzhi is?!


    "Xu Chuan, I''m telling you! Five years ago, since I already chose to let go, I will not want to have any involvement with you ever again!"


    "Please do not harass me again, I really don''t want to have any connection with you at all! Because just thinking about you makes me sick!"


    "I''m living very well now, extremely, extremely do not want to be disturbed by you again!"


    "Also, if you like thrills so much, go to the red light district!"


    "What do you take me, Lu Nianzhi, for? You are filthy, please do not categorize me with you!"


    "Never see each other again! Last thing, if you disturb me again, I will call the police!"


    Lu Nianzhi said it all in one breath, then directly hung up the phone, and even cklisted the number!


    On Xu Chuan''s end, he didn''t even get to finish a sentence before his ears were bombarded by Lu Nianzhi''s angry and disgusted words, leaving them ringing.


    What followed was her hanging up the phone, and when he called back, he was still cklisted.


    The corners of Xu Chuan''s mouth were extremely bitter, and his heart ached terribly.


    It��s understandable that Nian Nian would think of him this way.


    It was all his own doing.


    When he saw her at the hot pot restaurant, he was overjoyed, feeling as if he had regained something he had lost.


    But he knew deep down that Nian Nian would never forgive him.


    He knew that going back to the past was a hope he could never fulfill.


    He just wanted to say sorry to her.


    How were thest five years any easier on him?


    Guilt and longing tore at him, pain and confusion devoured him.


    His world had been dark without daylight since five years ago.


    He didn��t know that by speaking to her for a few minutes at the hot pot restaurant that day, it would cause such a big oversight in her work.


    He just wanted to apologize to her, but didn��t expect to get such resolute and disgusted words from her in return.


    Xu Chuan��s knuckles turned white from gripping his phone tightly. He let out a heavy sigh, then turned to pour himself a drink.


    ��What��s going on? Who got you so angry?��


    Seeing Lu Nianzhi furiously hang up the phone ande back, Rong Dai couldn��t help but ask.


    ��A scumbag, that man who appeared at the hot pot restaurant that day.��


    ��If it wasn��t for him, you wouldn��t have gotten into trouble that day either.��


    ��This man... I really overestimated him! In the past, I must have been blind to even look twice at a man like this!��


    ��He''s just aplete scumbag through and through!��


    Lu Nianzhi was extremely indignant. Every time she thought back to the scene she witnessed with her own eyes five years ago, she felt utterly disgusted!


    Rong Dai was clever. With just one earful, she caught the crucial information in Lu Nianzhi��s words.


    Thinking back to the man who appeared at the hot pot restaurant that day, whose entire body exuded the mature charm and restraint of a sessful businessman.


    The kind of man who could make Lu Nianzhi look twice must be extraordinary.


    But she didn��t quite understand what had happened between the two.


    ��We had been ssmates since high school, and it wasn��t until after university that we confirmed our rtionship...��


    Seeing Rong Dai with that hesitant look on her face,pletely puzzled, Lu Nianzhi let out a soft sigh and tore open the wounds that had been deeply hidden in her heart for a full five years.

 Chapter 287: Lu Nienzhi鈥檚 Pain 02

    <h4>Chapter 287</h4>


    "We had nned to get married right after graduation and start a business together."


    "But I didn''t expect that all my fantasies would be shattered by a single gathering. That day, he met the woman he considered a goddess during middle school."


    "I witnessed with my own eyes the entire process of that scumbag being intimate with that woman. You have no idea how disgusted I felt."


    "Every moment I spent with him felt not only like a joke but also dirty."


    "What am I to him after so many years together? Just a backup n? I truly... cannot forgive him, nor do I want to."


    Lu Nianzhi spoke with a heavy voice.


    She thought it would be difficult to bring up the pain she had hidden deep in her heart for five years, that her heart would ache.


    But she didn''t expect it toe out so easily, even though her heart still ached.


    "He fulfilled all my expectations of love when I was in the prime of my youth. I never thought betrayal woulde so quickly and disgustingly."


    "When he was caressing another woman, did he still have me in his heart?"


    "Just the thought of that scene makes me sick, makes me feel dirty!"


    As Lu Nianzhi shook her head, a look of intense disgust appeared on her face.


    Rong Dai found herself getting caught up in the story.


    Indeed, life truly is a melodramatic y.


    Any melodramatic thing you think would never happen to you could very well ur in a single moment.


    It catches you off guard, tearing your heart to pieces!


    But that''s just how life is!


    While experiencing pain, you still have to grit your teeth and keep living.


    Rong Dai got up and brought a small piece of chilled cake to Lu Nianzhi.


    "Eating something sweet will improve your mood. Getting angry harms the liver. Since you''ve already let go, there''s no need to dwell on it."


    She didn''t know much about Lu Nianzhi''s rtionship with Xu Chuan, so it wasn''t appropriate for her to say much.


    Besides, it''s foolish to meddle in or judge others'' rtionships.


    Because whether it''s good or not, the people involved understand it better than the spectators.


    But she was a bit curious about how Lu Nianzhi witnessed the whole process.


    "The woman sent me a video. The next day when I went to the hotel, he was lying there with that woman,pletely naked."


    "I waited for him to exin, but all he said were those useless three words, ''I''m sorry.''"


    Seeing Rong Dai''s confusion, Lu Nianzhi took a bite of the cake and continued.


    "I waited at home for three days, but he didn''t send me a message or call me. It was as if he had suddenly disappeared from my world."


    "During those three days, I didn''t even know who I was anymore. Later, I went abroad."


    "To forget him, I had to study like my life depended on it, so desperately that I almost met the God of Death."


    "I thought that when I saw him, I would remainposed and not be so angry."


    "But I overestimated myself."


    Lu Nianzhi said with a hint of self-derision and disdain.


    Rong Dai understood that feeling well. Even in her past life as a queen, what could she do?


    Due to the Emperor''s favoritism, she was suppressed by the Imperial Noble Consort.


    As the heiress of a great nation, she had to endure such humiliation.


    Yet the Emperor turned a deaf ear and never bothered, always silencing her with the words, "You are the Empress, you should consider the bigger picture."


    But first and foremost, she was a woman, hiswful wife, and only then the Empress of the harem.


    She understood the anger and bitterness in Lu Nianzhi''s heart, yet she would not console her, only listening quietly as Lu Nianzhi spoke.


    After Lu Nianzhi finished speaking, there was a moment of silence, and she ate the cake bite by bite.


    "I apologize for subjecting you to such nauseating matters."


    She put down her te and looked at Rong Dai with a hint of regret.


    "It''s alright."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head. She thought Lu Nianzhi was perfect, after all, her business capabilities were so impressive!


    But she never expected that all of this was nothing more than a shell Lu Nianzhi used to armor herself.

 Chapter 288: I like it when you Tell Me.

    <h4>Chapter 288</h4>


    After finishing their conversation, Lu Nianzhi left.


    Rong Dai went upstairs to the embroidery room and took a look around. She noticed that Lu Nianzhi hadn''t taken the matching jewelry she had prepared for her, nor the specially made silk scarf.


    These were all essories.


    Although they may seem insignificant, they can enhance the overall charm of an outfit.


    She packed the scarf and jewelry separately in bags and took them downstairs. ncing at the time, she realized it was still early.


    In the past few days, she had fallen behind in her studies, so she tidied up the teacups on the coffee table and went into the study to study.


    She had a strong aptitude for learning, high concentration, and coupled with her naturally disciplined nature, she made rapid progress innguage learning.


    It wasn''t until evening when her neck started to feel a bit sore that she got up to stretch and went to the kitchen to prepare dinner.


    Just as she finished making dinner, Huo Shao Ting came back.


    Seeing her wearing an apron around her waist and the aroma of food filling the house, he felt incredibly content.


    Wasn''t this what he needed to protect?


    Huo Shao Ting changed his shoes and embraced her from behind, his voice gentle, "Wife..."


    Rong Dai''s heart trembled, her ears slightly blushing, and a hint of anger appeared on her delicate cheeks as she lightly patted his hand on her back.


    "Naughty! Go wash your hands, and we just need a bowl of egg soup."


    Huo Shao Ting responded lightly and took the opportunity to kiss her cheek before obediently going to wash his hands.


    The couple enjoyed dinner together, and after they were full, Huo Shao Ting took the initiative to clean up the dishes and put them in the dishwasher, along with tidying up the dining table.


    "It seems that President Huo is skilled in doing housework. From now on, we''ll rely on you for the household chores!"


    Rong Dai was looking at some etiquette rted to fashion shows on herputer when she felt Huo Shao Ting''s embrace. She lifted one hand and yfullyid it on the back of his hand, teasing him.


    "Alright, your hands are more precious than mine. You''re holding an embroidery needle, so of course, you have to protect it well."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t take her words as a joke and answered her very seriously.


    "Silly girl, I''m not kidding!"


    Rong Dai''s heart warmed, and she pulled him to sit beside her, turning her head to kiss his cheek.


    Huo Shao Ting grabbed a thin nket and covered her feet, his arms embracing her, allowing Rong Dai to lean against his chest.


    "I received an invitation from TK. I''m going to the fashion show tomorrow."


    Rong Dai looked at the screen and suddenly stopped scrolling.


    She thought about what Lu Nianzhi had said today and what Ha Wei had told her before.


    She put her notebook aside, slightly turned her body, and reached out to hold his neck, her dark eyes fixed on him.


    "Shao Ting, even if I can''t be a partner of TK, it doesn''t matter to me."


    "Thank you for everything you''ve done for me, but if such a situation arises again, I want you to tell me personally."


    "I don''t want to hear from others what you''ve done for me. I prefer to hear it from your own mouth."


    Her tone was soft and carried a hint of coquetry, but it was exceptionally sincere.


    And indeed, it was her heartfelt words.


    Just imagine, if a wife can only find out what her husband has said or done for her through others.


    Isn''t this a rather failed affair?


    She knew that this was Huo Shao Ting''s way of expressing love for her, so she epted it.


    Huo Shao Ting understood what she meant, but he was afraid that his wife would dislike him for spending too much money, so he didn''t tell her.


    But she cared so much about it.


    "I''ll follow your lead."


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead and held her in his arms.


    Even if they did nothing, just embracing each other quietly like this, he felt content.


    Then he made a phone call to his assistant, while Rong Dai continued to browse the web pages on herptop.

 Chapter 289: All Yours from Head to Toe

    <h4>Chapter 289</h4>


    Half an hourter, Zhang Assistant was waiting at their door with more than ten bags in his hands.


    Rong Dai had also learned about the TK high-end luxury brand these days, so she could recognize their logo at a nce.


    "President, everything is here."


    Zhang Assistant wiped the fine sweat from his forehead and breathed a little heavily.


    Rong Dai turned around and went to the kitchen to get him a bottle of water.


    "Thank you, ma''am."


    Zhang Assistant was overjoyed and left quickly after seeing the cold eyes from his president.


    Indeed, he was just a small motor that the president could wind up to use wherever needed!


    "I remember TK doesn''t have a specialty store opened in Shengjing yet. Where did you buy these?"


    After Zhang Assistant left, Rong Dai asked him.


    Huo Shao Ting stroked her soft and lush hair, exined in a low voice: "I bought them on a business trip abroad, because I knew you would go to the fashion show."


    She didn''t understand somemon etiquette for attending fashion shows. As her husband, he had to worry about her more.


    Rong Dai felt a warmth in her heart. She was just talking about this with Lu Nianzhi at noon. But she didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to care so much about her affairs.


    "Thank you, Shao Ting."


    She answered him softly, then hugged his waist and took the initiative to offer her lips.


    Faced with her invitation, Huo Shao Ting dly epted.


    After a dance in the clouds and rain, Rong Dai''s cheeks were flushed as she panted for breath.


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her upstairs into the bathroom.


    Once inside the misty bathroom, it was the perfect time for tenderness.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect him to have such strong stamina. She cried and begged for mercy in his arms for over an hour before they finally left the bathroom. Her whole body felt like it was falling apart.


    She curled up in bed, soft and just wanting to sleep.


    But the fashion show tomorrow was very important, so she boldly ordered Huo Shao Ting to take out the clothes from the bags for her inspection.


    Huo Shao Ting leaned over to kiss her, his deep eyes full of tenderness and indulgence.


    "Trust your husband''s taste, I won''t choose wrong."


    Rong Dai looked at him coyly for a moment, then curled up in the quilt, half-closed her eyes, sleepy and proud like a noble little cat.


    Huo Shao Ting felt pity and reached out to hold her in his arms, kissing her forehead and said softly: "I will apany you there tomorrow."


    Drowsiness was overtaking Rong Dai, but she heard it clearly. She opened her eyes for a moment before closing them again, and mumbled to ask him: "Really?"


    "Really."


    Seeing her like this, Huo Shao Ting didn''t know whether tough or cry.


    The couple fell asleep in each other''s arms. Thanks to Huo Shao Ting''spany, Rong Dai''s long-term insomnia was cured and she slept very soundly.


    When she woke up in the morning, she felt very refreshed.


    On the other hand, Huo Shao Ting next to her had dark circles under his eyes, apparently fromck of sleep.


    "...Did you sleep wellst night?"


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting innocently and asked.


    Huo Shao Ting looked back at her helplessly and innocently, moved his body a little bit and then stopped.


    Rong Dai''s face flushed red in an instant!


    "You..."


    She was tongue-tied, looking at him with embarrassment, annoyance and panic.


    Last night, she had actually...grabbed that part of him all night!


    Rong Dai felt embarrassed and annoyed. She hurriedly let go of her hand, feeling like her palm was hot enough to fry eggs!


    "I..."


    She opened her mouth, wanting to exin, but how could she exin this?!


    Wouldn''t that just make it worse?


    Huo Shao Ting chuckled softly, stroked her cheek and lowered his head to kiss her lips.


    "I belong to you from head to toe."


    His silly little wife, he belonged to her so what was wrong with grabbing him a little?


    Though for him, that feeling was...excruciating!

 Chapter 290: But He Likes It

    <h4>Chapter 290</h4>


    Hearing these words from him made Rong Dai''s whole body even hotter.


    "I, I''ll get up first!"


    Thinking that she still had to go see TK''s fashion show today, she hurriedly found an excuse to crawl out of the big bed.


    But as soon as she stood up, she regretted it!


    Huo Shao Ting was the one who had washed herst night, and she had rolled up in the quilt when she came out...she didn''t even have a chance to put on clothes.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t say anything, he just looked at her like that.


    Rong Dai was so embarrassed she wished she could dig a hole in the ground and crawl into it!


    She grabbed the bath towel ced on the sofa and wrapped it around her body, then hurriedly went to the dressing room to change into loungewear before going to wash up.


    Huo Shao Ting was helpless. She had been so passionate, but afterwards she would always be so shy.


    But...he liked it!


    Because of what happened in the morning, Rong Dai avoided making eye contact with him all morning. She was also a bit flustered when eating breakfast.


    "Aren''t...aren''t you going to thepany?"


    Seeing that he was still at home and showed no intention of going to work, Rong Dai couldn''t help but ask.


    Although she and Huo Shao Ting were already very familiar with each other''s bodies, she just couldn''t help it.


    What happened in the morning was really...too embarrassing!


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes suddenly took on a somewhat resentful look as he gazed at her. He had just told herst night.


    Rong Dai: "???"


    What did she say wrong? Why was he looking at her with such resentful eyes?


    "I said I would apany you to see the fashion show today..."


    Huo Shao Ting said slowly, his voice full of resentment.


    Rong Dai: "......"


    She had been so tired and groggyst night, and her mind was filled with the embarrassment of getting up in the morning. Her mind was aplete mess.


    "I..."


    She opened her mouth to exin, but Huo Shao Ting had alreadye over and took her into his arms.


    He looked earnestly and gently into her eyes: "We are husband and wife. Although I really like seeing you get all shy and flustered, I want you to be more natural."


    "There will be many, many more things for us to do together in the future. I don''t want to change you, I just want you to slowly ept being with me."


    Listening to him say these things, Rong Dai''s awkward and anxious heart miraculously calmed down.


    She took a deep breath, her cheeks still slightly flushed.


    "I...I''ll try my best..."


    The scene of getting up in the morning kept reying in her mind like a movie, over and over again.


    That kind of situation really made her too embarrassed!


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t force her. After kissing her forehead, he let go of her: "I''ll go to the study to take care of somepany matters. I''ll apany you to the fashion show venue this afternoon."


    He understood that she needed time. No matter how long, he was willing to wait for her.


    Rong Dai nodded. Watching him go upstairs to the study, her heart was a little conflicted.


    As she was pacing back and forth anxiously in the living room, the doorbell of the house rang.


    It was Lu Nianzhi.


    "What''s with yourplexion? You look a little unnatural."


    Lu Nianzhi was holding a bag in her hand. She was as attentive and perceptive as Rong Dai.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s awkward and unnatural expression, she asked.


    "Do...do I?"


    Rong Dai was startled. She hurriedly raised her hand to cover her cheek, stuttering a little as she answered.


    "It''s quite obvious."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded.


    Rong Dai felt awkward and a little troubled. Seeing that she didn''t say anything, Lu Nianzhi did not pursue the issue.


    "These are jewelry pieces, I picked them out carefully. Take a look and keep the ones you like."


    Mentioning work immediately revived Rong Dai''s spirit.


    She remembered the dozen or so bags that Zhang''s assistant had brought overst night.


    She hurried to take them out.


    "Where did you buy so many TK things?"


    Lu Nianzhi was a little surprised.


    TK was an internationally high-end luxury brand that paid great attention to workmanship,bining trends with ssics. It was an extremely popr big brand abroad.


    Almost all of their new seasonal products could sell out.


    She also really liked the TK brand, but there were no dedicated stores in Huaxia. So if you wanted to buy TK products, you could only go abroad or find purchasing agents.

 Chapter 291: Husband spoils Her Again

    <h4>Chapter 291</h4>


    "This was brought back from abroad by Shao Ting when he went on a business trip," Rong Dai exined.


    She wasn''t dismissing the jewelry that Lu Nianzhi had brought over, but rather she remembered that Lu Nianzhi had mentioned it was a collector''s edition.


    In case she identally damaged it, she wouldn''t be able topensate Lu Nianzhi.


    Women have a special attachment to jewelry, just like they do to their own children. They would feel distressed if it got scratched or bumped.


    Lu Nianzhi was speechless and could only give a thumbs-up!


    She really admired herself for having dog food for breakfast so early in the morning!


    "I remember this series... TK has already stopped producing it! The production cost was too high. This Chanel-inspired coat alone costs over three million, and it''s priced at seven million."


    When Lu Nianzhi saw the coat she casually took out, her eyes widened and then filled with envy.


    She had wanted to buy this coat, but unfortunately, it was sold out.


    She didn''t expect to see the real thing in Rong Dai''s possession.


    Rong Dai was startled by the price Lu Nianzhi mentioned.


    Seven million for a coat...


    Was she wearing a whole house on herself?


    She looked at the dozen bags and suddenly felt reluctant to open them.


    Perhaps her dear husband had splurged again to express his love for her?


    However, her eyes were sharp, and she could immediately see the uniqueness of this coat.


    The precious materials were a given. The cor was adorned with broken diamonds, and the fringe was fastened with light blue gemstones.


    With just one look, she could tell they were genuine.


    No wonder it was priced at seven million.


    Being covered in gemstones, how could it not be expensive?


    She loved this outfit at first sight, not to mention those fashion trendsetters and celebrity icons.


    "But how can you just leave this garment like this? It should be hung up. Otherwise, it will crease, and it''s difficult to take care of this type of fabric. It can only be handled properly at the TK headquarters."


    Although it wasn''t her own possession, Lu Nianzhi couldn''t help but feel distressed.


    Rong Dai was well aware that such a precious garment needed to be hung properly.


    But thinking about their wild night, she couldn''t possibly exin it to Lu Nianzhi.


    So she could only helplessly say a sentence and shift the me to Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting didn''t tell me. I thought it was just an ordinary garment. I haven''t had a good rest these days, so I didn''t handle it."


    Upon hearing her words, Lu Nianzhi didn''t have anything more to say.


    After all, this was Rong Dai''s own garment.


    "I''ll go get a hanger."


    Rong Dai turned and fetched a clothes rack from the storage room, and Lu Nianzhi hung up the coat for her.


    Rong Dai continued unpacking the bags.


    For each outfit, Lu Nianzhi could mention the price and also added the words "haute couture."


    Based on the information from Lu Nianzhi, it seemed that TK had already scheduled this level of haute couture three years in advance.


    Therefore, TK was no longer epting orders for this collection, which made Lu Nianzhi both puzzled and envious that Huo Shao Ting managed to acquire this collection''s clothing, all in Rong Dai''s size.


    "I''ll ask Shao Ting how he managed to get them for you."


    Rong Dai could see the longing in Lu Nianzhi''s eyes.


    "Really? Then thank you, Rong Dai!"


    Lu Nianzhi looked at her gratefully, nodding as she spoke.


    Out of these dozen bags, ten of them contained clothes, shoes, and handbags, all of which belonged to Rong Dai.


    The remaining five bags held a collection of TK limited-edition jewelry and wristwatches.


    As Lu Nianzhi''s eyes beheld these items, she couldn''t help but stare in awe.


    You see, these limited-edition collections have already been discontinued, bing timeless ssics.


    Even if you have the money, you wouldn''t be able to buy these collections.


    But how did Mr. Huo manage to acquire them?!

 Chapter 292: The Way She Loves Herself

    <h4>Chapter 292</h4>


    Rong Dai did not dare to ask Lu Nianzhi about the "history" of these pieces of jewelry anymore. Just looking at Lu Nianzhi''s appearance, she knew that these essories were invaluable.


    The watch alone was exquisite and magnificent, iid with crushed diamonds and gemstones, as well as four rare purple diamonds.


    "I can''t take it anymore, I can''t take it anymore... Compared to these things Huo Shao Ting brought back, I realized my collectible edition is just a mini version."


    Lu Nianzhi was greatly distressed, covering her chest and shaking her head.


    Rong Dai was a little amused, but looking at the bags on the table, she was also very envious. If one day her brand could develop like this, she would be satisfied.


    Since Huo Shao Ting brought back TK''s products, Lu Nianzhi took her mini edition back.


    As Rong Dai packed up, she carefully matched these clothes and jewelry. After finishing this, she went to the kitchen to brew medicinal tea for Huo Shao Ting.


    "Have some tea to moisten your mouth."


    Rong Dai ced the hot tea next to him. Huo Shao Ting only wore sses when dealing with things. His nearsightedness was not high.


    What Rong Dai saw most was his bare face. When she suddenly saw him wearing gold-rimmed sses, she couldn''t help staring at him.


    Although this man was not as enchanting as the emperor, he was already very handsome.


    The lines and contours of his face were very beautiful. His usual stern and taciturn appearance did exert tremendous pressure on others.


    Wearing sses like this, he exuded a touch of schrly elegance and softness, showing two different temperaments.


    "Do I look good?"


    Huo Shao Ting was seriously working just now. Sensing her lingering gaze, he simply put down his work and pulled her over to sit on hisp.


    Rong Dai''s breathing quickened and her cheeks flushed red. Her heart was still racing rapidly.


    She took a deep breath silently twice, leaning her head against his chest. Her voice was soft and coquettish: ��Handsome. I can never look enough.��


    The corners of Huo Shao Ting''s lips curled up into a smile, his eyes full of doting fondness.


    "Almost done, I��ll cook for my wife at noonter."


    He kissed her hair and said lightly.


    Rong Dai nodded and got up from hisp. Suddenly she swiftly lowered her head and pecked his lips fleetingly before immediately fleeing his study like she was escaping.


    Huo Shao Ting��s heart felt like it was soaking in a honey jar. Watching her back, he couldn''t help touching his own lips, chuckling softly.


    Because of this little incident, Rong Dai��s tangled and awkward mood was relieved.


    After checking the time, she thought there was not much time left to study, so she simply went into the kitchen to research what to make for lunch.


    Grandma, mother-inw and little sister-inw all loved desserts very much, but the sugar content in store-bought ones was too high to eat too much.


    She made some pastries by hand and packed them neatly in boxes before putting them in bags to deliver to the Huo residenceter when going to watch the fashion show.


    After finishing the pastries, she started washing vegetables and cooking.


    When Huo Shao Ting came downstairs, he saw the dishes on the table ready to eat.


    "Thanks for the hard work, wife."


    He hugged her again and took the chance to steal a kiss on her cheek.


    Rong Dai thought of his words "I want you to slowly get used to being with me".


    She turned her head slightly and also kissed his lips, smiling: ��Let��s eat. I made pastries. Later when we go watch the fashion show, let��s deliver them to grandma, mother and Meijuan first.��


    "As you say."


    Huo Shao Ting agreed. This was her way of showing her love for him.


    Loving someone means caring for those close to them too. How could he not understand that?

 Chapter 293: My Collection for You

    <h4>Chapter 293</h4>


    After the couple finished their lunch and rested for a while, they started getting ready.


    When Huo Shao Ting received her message, he immediately brought the newly appointed makeup artist over to do Rong Dai''s makeup.


    "Rong Dai, your face... really makes people crazily jealous!"


    Even Luo Nian Zhi, also a woman, couldn''t help feeling jealous of her.


    Just looking at Rong Dai in the mirror, there was no need to borate on her temperament - elegant, noble, tranquil, like a blossoming orchid in a secluded valley.


    Her beauty was gentle and magnificent.


    Luo Nian Zhi realized clearly for the first time what was meant by an "immortal beauty."


    No one could interpret those two words better than Rong Dai with her face and temperament.


    But what Luo Nian Zhi was jealous of wasn''t Rong Dai��s beauty, but her skin.


    After staying in the mountains for a few days, it had recovered overnight.


    So smooth and fair, with barely visible pores.


    Even without any base makeup, it was barely noticeable.


    Her bare face alone was already enviously beautiful, and with makeup it was even more so.


    Especially her phoenix eyes - with eye makeup, people would easily remember them at first nce.


    Rong Dai''s eyes could speak - when they fluttered, it was as if tiny stars were twinkling, extremely captivating.


    Hearing Luo Nian Zhi��s praise, Rong Dai just smiled faintly at herself in the mirror. She had always known her looks were extraordinarily beautiful.


    "Since Chairman Huo is going with you, we��ll see you at the venue.��


    ncing at the time, Luo Nian Zhi added that one line before leaving with the makeup artist.


    Rong Dai nodded. After the two left, she went to the dressing room to change.


    With fair skin and a great figure, she was a natural clothes horse.


    A blue ombr�� gown, embroidered with white plum blossoms and petals, looking as if they were floating on the water��s surface.


    The plum stamens were entuated with tiny blue diamonds. The skirt had ayer of soft tulle with flowing lines also embedded with crushed diamonds.


    As she walked, the skirt flowed like a babbling brook.


    She couldn��t help but admire the top.


    No wonder TK was able to maintain its position as an international high-end luxury leader, relying on sheer ability.


    Huo Shao Ting had bought her earrings and watch but no ne.


    With the deep V-neckline,cking a ne would greatly diminish the aesthetic.


    She hurried to find a suitable ne of her own.


    ��Wear this one.��


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly walked in, wearing a bespoke retro tailored suit that gave him an eternally charming look.


    In his hand was a red velvet box. He went to Rong Dai and opened it. She froze.


    It was a three-finger wide, slightly oval blue diamond.


    Such arge blue diamond was extremely rare.


    The ne had a ssic design - surrounded by white and blue diamonds besides the center blue diamond.


    Looking closely, it resembled a beauty��s eye.


    ��This isn��t from Dad��s collection, is it?��


    Recalling her mother-inw��s obsession with jewelry, if this happened to be another of her treasured pieces, their recently reconciled rtionship might shatter again.


    Huo Shao Ting gave a wry smile, also distressed by her wariness.


    ��No, I collected this for you.��


    He exined softly, then put the ne on for her.


    The cool sensation and dangling weight came. Rong Dai couldn��t help lowering her head to admire the exquisite ne - one for eternity.


    ��You look so beautiful...��


    After putting it on for her, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t resist hugging her slender waist from behind and nted a kiss on the tip of her ear.


    Gazing at her reflection in the mirror, he murmured gently.

 Chapter 294: Too Beautiful to Be Human

    <h4>Chapter 294</h4>


    A faint blush appeared on Rong Dai''s cheeks as she revealed a shy, charming smile. She tilted her head to look at him, her hands covering the back of his.


    Their eyes met, full of deep affection.


    "You''re so charming too, capturing my heart."


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes smiled as he lightly kissed her cheek.


    She was so beautifully captivating, he truly wanted to hide her away and keep her all to himself.


    But he understood clearly that her radiance could not be concealed.


    He did not wish to restrict her either.


    To have her by his side this lifetime was enough.


    After the couple exchanged some sweet words, Rong Dai put on the "one apartment" coat.


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand and they headed downstairs together.


    Zhang Assistant was waiting downstairs, impably dressed in a suit.


    He had worked by Huo Shao Ting''s side for years and seen many beauties charm the CEO.


    But he had never seen a beauty like the CEO''s wife - elegant yet seductive, every frown and smile brimming with feminine grace.


    She was a woman one could not forget at first sight.


    As the old saying goes, even the greatest heroes find it hard to resist a beauty''s charms.


    It turns out his boss was no exception, havingpletely fallen for his wife this time.


    Rong Dai did not forget the pastries she had prepared, as well as the essories she nned to pass to TK''s person-in-chargeter at the fashion show.


    The couple got into the car and headed to the Huo residence first.


    "My god sis-inw, you''re too devastatingly gorgeous!"


    Because of Gu Chengyan''s matter, Huo Mei Shu had been moping around at home the past few days.


    Seeing her little sister-inw looking so unkempt was a bit of a shock to Rong Dai, who had not seen her for some days.


    Oblivious to her own state, Huo Mei Shu''s eyes were fixed admiringly on Rong Dai.


    "Are those...Muse''s Eyes?!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s gazended on the blue diamond ne around Rong Dai''s neck. She eximed in surprise.


    Rong Dai did not know the ne had a name. To her eye, it was a valuable piece of jewelry.


    "That ne is really old, I thought it went missing? Big brother, where did you find it?"


    Huo Mei Shu was greatly astonished. She could not help but lean in to scrutinize the ne.


    Rong Dai still felt a little ufortable with her little sister-inw crowding her chest. But she endured it.


    "Did you spend your money on it?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was cold as he red at Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu pouted sullenly as she hugged the box of pastries, ncing at her elder brother. "I know you dote on big sis-inw. I was just asking!"


    "The pastries were just freshly made, the texture should be perfect for eating now. But don''t be greedy and eat too much or it''ll upset your digestive system."


    Seeing the siblings about to break into argument again, Rong Dai quickly interjected with a smile.


    "Big sis-inw is the best!"


    Huo Mei Shu said defiantly with a humph, tantly provoking Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed. After a few days without scolding, this girl was getting more and more unruly.


    Recalling the girl''s "tragic" night, Rong Dai secretly pinched Huo Shao Ting''s thigh.


    "If you like them, I can make them for you more often when I''m free. It''s gettingte, your brother and I have to get to the fashion show."


    "Go on then! I''ll exin to grandma and mum when they''re back."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded.


    The couple then headed to TK''s fashion show venue.


    Sitting in the car, Rong Dai asked "Did it hurt?"


    She had pinched him just now, afraid he would bring up something to upset Huo Mei Shu.


    Looking at her, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes seemed aggrieved, his voice tinged withint. "It hurts..."

 Chapter 295: The Spoiled CEO

    <h4>Chapter 295</h4>


    "Pfft..."


    Zhang Assistant, who was driving, couldn''t help butugh out loud on the spot. Who would have thought that this CEO who had "power over life and death" over everyone in thepany would actually act cute?


    Hisughter was so abrupt that he immediately received a "death stare" from Huo Shao Ting through the rearview mirror.


    He was so scared that he shivered, and hurriedly blocked his ears so as not to hear words he shouldn''t.


    Rong Dai''s ears were a little red. In her previous life, because she was the queen, she was always extremely particr about her every word and action in front of others.


    When it was just the two of them at home, whatever sweet nothings they said to each other was normal to her, no matter how intimate.


    But in front of others, she still felt very ufortable with this kind of intimacy that was a little inappropriate for her.


    When Huo Shao Ting noticed her awkwardness and embarrassment, his eyes swept coldly over Zhang Assistant''s back again.


    Zhang Assistant felt like he had eyes on his back, and became very uneasy!


    What was there tough about?


    "I''ll be more careful from now on."


    He held her hand and looked at her sidewise, speaking gently.


    Rong Dai nodded, very appreciative of his thoughtfulness.


    The husband and wife arrived at the fashion show venue, which was already very lively.


    The runway outside was paved with a red carpet, and the celebrity guests and dignitaries from all walks of life who hade to watch the show were dressed very elegantly.


    There was also arge group of reporters gathered outside the venue. The shing lights were constantly blinking, slightly ring.


    The car came to a steady stop. A sharp-eyed reporter recognized at first nce that this was Huo Shao Ting''s exclusive ride.


    The cameras outside immediately focused on their car.


    "Don''t be afraid, I''m here."


    When Rong Dai saw those lenses focused on them, she suddenly clenched his hand.


    She wasn''t nervous, but ufortable.


    She didn''t like being watched all the time like this. Every little thing about her would be magnified countless times under these lenses.


    Then it would be carefully scrutinized by those keyboard warriors, who would thene to attack her.


    She wasn''t afraid of anyone''s usations, nor was she intimidated by their attacks.


    But she just didn''t like it.


    "I...just dislike being watched by people all the time."


    Rong Dai looked back at him, intertwining her ten fingers with his, adjusting her state of mind slightly.


    "But it seems that as your wife, this is unavoidable."


    She then said with some resignation, but there was a smile on her face.


    "It''s like sharing your spotlight with you. When I think of it that way, I feel especially honored!"


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly and kissed her cheek lightly. "Let''s go down."


    Rong Dai nodded. Huo Shao Ting got out of the car first, then held out his hand gentlemanly to help her out.


    Rong Dai''s ear tips were flushed red. Facing Huo Shao Ting''s omnipresent thoughtfulness, she felt like she was soaking in a honey pot all the time.


    "My god! Is this Huo''s femalepanion? So beautiful, if Rong Dai saw..."


    "Are you blind? Isn''t this Rong Dai herself?"


    A short-sighted reporter didn''t recognize Rong Dai with her made-up look at first nce.


    Just as he was eximing in surprise and spection, he was interrupted by the reporter next to him.


    "Didn''t they say she was kidnapped? What''s going on?"


    "Was she ransomed back?"


    "Or was Rong Dai never kidnapped to begin with?"


    Seeing Rong Dai''s stunning appearance, countless lenses desperately focused on her. Some more gossipy reporters couldn''t help but whisper privately.


    Although they all wanted to ask questions very much, unfortunately this was not a press conference.


    Today was the opening show of TK Huaxia''s debut show, and no one wanted to miss such a reporting opportunity, so no one dared to make a scene.


    Otherwise, they would really lose face if they got kicked out!

 Chapter 296: The Work Is Gone

    <h4>Chapter 296</h4>


    "President Huo, Mrs. Huo!"


    Because of the cooperation between TK and Huo''s Enterprise this time, Ha Wei had arrived at the fashion show early to wait for the couple''s arrival with his assistant.


    When he saw the two appear, he came over personally with his assistant to greet them.


    "I didn''t expect Ha Wei to personally wee us. Even Grand Master Shi Yue and Miss Shi Ning of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop didn''t receive such an honor just now!"


    "Wow, this year''s fashion show is going to be amazing!"


    "I have a feeling Shengjing is going to be very lively in the future!"


    The reporters turned their lenses to the few people, not missing any photo opportunity.


    "President Huo, Mrs. Huo, this way please."


    Ha Wei was very happy and weed the couple in a very friendly manner.


    After entering the venue, Yong Dai took a distant look at the fashion show runway. It was as illusory as a dream, almost like a fairnd.


    She remembered her essories. Zhang, her capable assistant, immediately handed her the bag.


    Yong Dai checked it and showed an apologetic smile.


    "Mr. Ha Wei, I''m really sorry. I had some things to deal with in the past few days. So thepetition outfit was sent by my assistant. I also made some essories, but she didn''t know about them."


    "I wonder if it would be convenient now for me to put these essories over there?"


    If an ordinary person made such a request, Ha Wei would definitely refuse.


    But who would let the man in front of him be the emperor of Shengjing''s businessmunity?


    What''s more, the momentum of Huo''s Enterprise''s development overseas in recent years has been very swift. It has be a highly capable multinational enterprise.


    Huo''s Enterprise is involved in many areas. Offending such a "rich dad" would be a very unwise choice.


    Besides, this was not a difficult matter.


    "No problem. I''ll take you there personally."


    Ha Wei smiled and personally led the couple to the storage room.


    All thepetition outfits in the storage room had tags and were hung up neatly and properly stored.


    Yong Dai felt a little dizzy. Ha Wei asked his assistant beside him.


    The assistant checked her phone while leading the three people over.


    But the hanger where Yong Dai''s work was originally ced waspletely empty with nothing there, even the tag was torn off.


    Yong Dai frowned immediately.


    Ha Wei''s expression also changed. As the person in charge internally, he had naturally seen Yong Dai''s work before.


    The two words "shocking" and "amazing" were not enough to describe her work.


    Moreover, they were very satisfied with Yong Dai''s work this time. In her work, they found the Chinese charm they really wanted.


    So they decided internally that Yong Dai''s work would be it this time.


    Firstly, not only because Yong Dai''s work was indeed excellent, especially her embroidery, which was breathtaking!


    Secondly, with TK being able to connect with Huo''s Enterprise in China, it was only a matter of time before they opened up the Asian market.


    But now who could tell him where the work that should have been properly ced here went?!


    Ha Wei was so angry that he cursed his assistant in his mother tongue on the spot!


    The assistant felt very wronged too. Although Yong Dai was worried deep down, the fashion show was imminent.


    No matter whether her work could make it to TK''s runway, for it to just disappear inexplicably like this, she could not ept it.


    It should be known that in order to make it to TK''s premiere this time, whether it was her, Shaotang, or Lu Nianzhi, they had all put in tremendous effort.


    If her skills were not as good as others, then so be it. But her work had already been handed over to them, yet now it was missing.


    That meant her entry was gone. Even if her design was very good, without the finished dress, how could the model walk the runway holding her sketch?


    That would be too absurd!

 Chapter 297: Where Did Her Work Go

    <h4>Chapter 297</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s face was also unpleasant.


    He was not heartbroken over the money smashed out, but heartbroken over his woman.


    In order to participate in thispetition, she held such a thin needle every day, staying in the embroidery room.


    After a day of embroidery, her waist and back ache, and he feels distressed!


    But now he is told that the name of the work is gone?!


    "Mr. Ha Wei, yourpany makes me very doubtful of your ability to do things."


    "If my wife''s work cannot be found, I think the things I promised yourpany this time may not count."


    He said coldly, his deep eyes staring at Ha Wei.


    "Mr. Huo, Mrs. Huo, please calm down, I will definitely handle this matter well!"


    Cold sweat immediately oozed out of Ha Wei''s back!


    If Huo Shao Ting ruined the cooperation because of this, they would have nothing to say.


    It is important to know that the Huo family has made such a big effort in order to allow Mrs. Huo to participate smoothly.


    But now her work has disappeared from their warehouse!


    Anyone would be angry and say such words normally.


    But if that''s the case, the price they have to pay for this debut is too great!


    In order to get the support of the Huo Group, they chose to postpone this time, and have already paid a lot of liquidated damages to the models and partners of the fashion show.


    If the Huo Group unterally proposes to terminate the contract at this time, TK will really suffer heavy losses this time.


    Although Rong Dai was also in a bad mood, she remained rtively calm.


    Because she knew that no matter how anxious she was, if the work was gone, it was gone.


    "Mr. Ha Wei, don''t worry first. My husband is just distressed about me. As long as the work is still there and has not been destroyed, it should be found."


    "So, I will contact my assistant to ask the staff who stored these entries if they have misced it."


    She knew that Huo Shao Ting was distressed about her hard work these days. In order to catch up with thispetition, shepleted the shooting tasks ahead of time.


    After the New Year, she stayed in the embroidery room every day.


    If the work just disappeared inexplicably, she would not be reconciled or angry, and she would feel ashamed to Shao Ting for his efforts to enable her to participate smoothly this time.


    Ha Wei let out a long breath, nodded repeatedly, and then spoke to his assistant in his nativenguage.


    Rong Dai also called Lu Nianzhi, and in less than a few minutes, Lu Nianzhi came over under the guidance of another TK staff member.


    "I handed it over to their staff with my own hands, the order is still here! How could it be gone?!"


    Lu Nianzhi was also extremely nervous, and her pretty face turned pale.


    "Don''t worry first, this ce is only so big, let''s see if their employees have misced it."


    At this time, Rong Dai could onlyfort herself and those around her who cared about this matter like this.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, went forward andmunicated with Ha Wei in fluent French.


    Ha Wei''s face was gloomier than anyone else''s. His assistant quickly brought over the staff member who had taken over Rong Dai''s work.


    Even if that staff member was stupid, they knew something was terribly wrong when they saw this situation.


    She subconsciously clutched her clothes, and a hint of panic shed through her eyes.


    Rong Dai was a very perceptive person, and this also involved her own work.


    So she watched every person who might havee into contact with her work very carefully.


    She could see clearly all the subtle movements and expressions of this employee, and her eyes narrowed immediately.


    Ha Wei asked the staff member directly, "Where is Ms. Rong''s entry?!"


    The staff member had never seen the deputy general manager so angry before, and was so scared that her whole body trembled and she almost cried.

 Chapter 298: Under the Label of Fairyland

    <h4>Chapter 298</h4>


    Rong Dai''s current level of French was good enough to understand the conversation between them, and this staff member was behaving very suspiciously.


    Generally when a major mistake happens at work, most people''s first reaction is fear and panic.


    But apart from the normal panic, this employee also showed signs of a guilty conscience.


    What was he feeling guilty about?


    "Over here!"


    Just as Rong Dai was listening carefully to Ha Wei''s conversation with the employee, she heard Lu Nianzhi''s voice and immediately walked over.


    This was a row of separate clothes hangers. At a nce, she could see that these clothes were from the Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    The Brocade Embroidery Workshop had very distinct characteristics, and thebels clearly stated the name.


    But her work was hanging on the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s hangers, with theirbels on them too.


    Her expression immediately darkened.


    If she hadn''t brought the essories over today, no one would have noticed this mistake.


    After all, only TK''s senior management and designers had seen these drafts, not the staff below or the hosts.


    If her work was selected, in the end it would go out with the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''sbel on it.


    Then it would be the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s work.


    By the time the truth came out, it would have to be privately settled.


    TK ced special importance on this debut show, and certainly wouldn''t want this kind of thing to be reported.


    The Brocade Embroidery Workshop was the same, their brand and reputation were already established here.


    No matter whether this was an oversight by the employee, they would not make any statement.


    So she would just have to silently endure the injustice.


    The efforts and passion she had painstakingly invested would end up making clothes for someone else.


    Although she was very satisfied with her work, the Brocade Embroidery Workshop had reached its status today relying on ssical Chinese elements.


    And unless someone who had carefully examined her embroidery saw it,ymen wouldn''t be able to recognize it.


    Thinking of all this, her eyes suddenly turned cold.


    The imperial majesty of the Empress Dowager burst out in an instant, and the temperature in the entire warehouse seemed to plummet.


    "Mr. Ha Wei, I sincerely wanted to participate in yourpany''s debut show this time."


    "If yourpany is not satisfied with my work, you can simply reject it."


    "Yourpany''s employees have been in the business for many years and have done things like this not just once or twice. Even if you don''t recognize Chinese characters, the words Brocade Embroidery Workshop and Magnolia Fragrance look nothing alike!"


    "I am very disappointed that yourpany would treat my work this way. I am a designer. Every work, whether failed or sessful,"


    "contains the designer''s inspiration and passion. Unless I voluntarily allow it, no one can confuse my work with others''."


    "Given Mr. Ha Wei��s experience, you must know very clearly what I would face if my work went outbeled as the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s."


    Rong Dai looked very cold, and her heart was chilled too.


    In this short time, she hadpletely lost her original expectations and enthusiasm for TK.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was also very gloomy.


    Seeing his woman suffer injustice, he was heartbroken of course!


    "I will personally send an email about this matter to yourpany''s headquarters. Such a low-level mistake, I really find it hard to trust you."


    Rong Dai''s heart was bleeding. Just thinking that her work would go down the runway under anotherpany''s name, she hadpletely lost hope in TK.


    She was very disappointed, extremely disappointed.


    They had all made great efforts to ensure her participation would go smoothly this time.


    She had even invested 120% enthusiasm.


    But she hadn''t expected this to be the oue!


    She could not ept such an oue!

 Chapter 299: Just to Make You Happy

    <h4>Chapter 299</h4>


    She instantly lost her mood to watch the fashion show and even more lost her mood to cooperate with TK.


    The work is the soul of the designer, the blood and sweat of the designer.


    The birth of each piece is as precious as a child to the designer.


    She couldn''t tolerate the crude mistake TK had made.


    "Shao Ting, there''s something I don''t want to continue."


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting, her eyes very serious and solemn.


    Huo Shao Ting understood her, with just one look from her, he could read her thoughts.


    He went up to hold her hand, his voice gentle as he said: "Everything I have done is to make you happy."


    "If you are not happy, then there is no need to continue this."


    Rong Dai felt warmth in her heart, and also felt a little apologetic towards him.


    After all, his efforts to get TK to postpone were no less than hers.


    She knew her decision might have an impulsive element to it.


    But just thinking that her work was not wearing her ownbel, but had be someone else''s "dowry", she could not ept it.


    Since TK valued this fashion show so much, but still made mistakes that should not have urred.


    This made it difficult for her to regain trust in the brand.


    "Rong Dai, could it be that you want to..."


    Lu Nianzhi immediately also understood, hesitating in astonishment: "That''s right, I just want to give up my qualification to participate in thepetition this time."


    "Mr. Ha Wei, I hope this time my matter can serve as a warning to yourpany. The work is every designer''s second life, I can no longer trust yourpany."


    "My withdrawal will not affect yourpany''s fashion show, I wish yourpany sess on its first show in advance."


    "In addition, my original draft will be handled by my assistant. I have no cooperative rtionship with yourpany, so I hope yourpany will not make any more mistakes with my draft, otherwise I will have no choice but to pursue yourpany for legal liability."


    Rong Dai said this paragraph in French.


    Her pronunciation was urate and authentic, her tone serious and extremely solemn.


    Coupled with her dignified aura, Ha Wei''s face changed instantly.


    He kept sweating on his forehead, and subconsciously looked to Huo Shao Ting for help, his eyes still showing some pleading.


    But Huo Shao Ting was even colder.


    "I hope yourpany remembers my wife''s words. The termination contract will be sent to yourpany''s headquarters soon."


    He was willing to spend money for his wife.


    But that did not mean Huo Shao Ting was a pushover.


    After the couple finished speaking, they left the warehouse without waiting for Ha Wei to recover, with Lu Nianzhi and Zhang Assistant taking Rong Dai''s work.


    After they had walked far away, Ha Wei finally reacted.


    But by the time he chased them out, where was there still any trace of Rong Dai?


    He was so anxious that he spewed profanity at the employee, and panic-stricken, called Rong Dai!


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting had left through the back door of the venue and had just gotten into the car when they saw Ha Wei''s iing call.


    She didn''t originally want to say any more.


    But thinking of the suspicious demeanor of the employee earlier, she still answered.


    On the phone, Ha Wei pleaded forgiveness in panic, and asked them to give him another chance, even saying they had decided internally to adopt her design.


    But hearing this, Rong Dai was not moved at all.


    Facing apany that had almost allowed her "child" to take someone else''s name, she could not ept it.


    After quietly listening to Ha Wei finish speaking, she finally spoke.


    "Thank you for yourpany''s generosity, but yourpany''s generosity really makes me uneasy. Mr. Ha Wei, you need say no more."


    "In addition, I answered this call because I wanted to remind Mr. Ha Wei that it would be best to investigate the employee who managed my work."


    "As for the rest, I believe time can heal many things."


    "If fate allows in the future, mypany may reconnect this fate with yourpany."


    "But this time, it can only be a regret. I wish yourpany well, I have said all I intend to say."


    After speaking, she did not wait for Ha Wei''s reply before hanging up and setting his number to reject calls.

 Chapter 300: Will It Let You Down

    <h4>Chapter 300</h4>


    After hanging up Ha Wei''s phone, Rong Dai did not feel any sense of relief.


    She turned her head to look at Huo Shao Ting, her beautiful eyes full of guilt.


    "Shao Ting, it seems I''m being too willful, will this disappoint you?"


    She asked him weakly,cking confidence.


    After all, in order to get TK to postpone this time, he had sshed out two to three hundred million.


    Now without seeing any results, it was wasted by her willfulness.


    Those two to three hundred million were spent without any value.


    Although the Huo family was wealthy, the money should not have been spent like this.


    Fortunately the person she had met was Huo Shao Ting. If it was an ordinary family,


    not to mention two to three hundred million, even if it was just a few thousand dors they would have felt distressed.


    She also felt distressed, she also loved money.


    Money was a good thing, which person wouldn''t need it?


    But she did not want to wrong herself just for money.


    This time, it was hard to guarantee that even if she really became TK��s partner brand,


    by relying on TK��s fame, although herpany��s valuation would also soar,


    she still would not be happy, because this kind of thing was just unforgivable!


    This time they were able to confuse her work with Brocade Embroidery Workshop��s, what about next time?


    Would they transfer ownership of her works for the sake of protecting their own brand��s reputation?


    She could not trust them.


    As the saying goes, "Do not doubt those you employ, doubt those you employ not."


    She had doubts and distrust towards TK, so in future coborations they certainly would not be happy.


    She didn''t dare to say whether or not there would be future coborations with TK in the future, but she was very clear that this time she did not want to participate in this debut show.


    Seeing her still say this, Huo Shao Ting felt both distressed and slightly angry.


    "I said, everything I do is to make you happy, to make you feel good."


    "If you are not happy, then no matter how much I contribute, how much I do, what''s the point?"


    "I earn money just so you can spend money without any concerns holding you back. You don''t need to worry about things like this."


    "I just want you to be happy, to do whatever you want."


    "No matter when, I stand behind you."


    His tone was extremely serious and extraordinarily earnest!


    Hearing this warmed Rong Dai��s heart, and she took the initiative to snuggle into his arms.


    Her eyes were unfocused, but her mind was filled with thousands of thoughts.


    "Thank you, darling."


    "With your support, I will do well."


    His feelings and intentions were precious. She also didn��t want to give up on her dreams because of this.


    Not being able to coborate with TK, so what?


    She could still bring her works onto the runway!


    This matter had truly touched Rong Dai��s bottom line and sensitive areas. She was very clear on her own abilities.


    So instead of her fighting spirit dissipating, it became even more determined.


    After the husband and wife sat in the car for a while, Zhang Assistant finally came back.


    "Boss, everything has been taken care of."


    Zhang Assistant sent him a copy of the downloaded surveince video footage, then started the engine.


    Rong Dai leaned on Huo Shao Ting��s shoulder, looking at his phone.


    This video was the internal surveince footage of TK''s warehouse.


    Although it did not show whether employees had deliberately confused her works or if it was truly a mistake,


    but all the scenes of them going to the warehouse with Ha Wei today werepletely captured, including the conversations, all very clear.


    "Closely monitor TK for any movements or response, if they dare guide public opinion maliciously, release it."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was cold and hard again, full of majestic authority as he instructed Zhang Assistant.


    "Yes, Boss."


    Zhang Assistant responded, alsomenting TK''s reckless behavior.


    Rong Dai understood he was doing this to prepare for any eventuality, to protect herself. No amount of words could express her warmth and being moved, she could only hug his waist tightly.

 Chapter 301: That鈥檚 the tone of contention.

    <h4>Chapter 301</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi on her side also smoothly retrieved the original manuscript of Rong Dai''s work. Just to be safe, she also video called Rong Dai to confirm.


    After getting Rong Dai''s confirmation, she then left the TK Show with the manuscript.


    It was unknown which reporter leaked the news, but the news of the couple leaving the show venue from the back door in less than half an hour after arriving was exposed.


    Then...as expected, it made the top search on Weibo.


    Rong Dai didn''t care about these things at all. After all, her making it to the hot search was nothing new.


    TK did not provide any exnation.


    Rong Dai also did not expect them to exin. As long as they don''t add insult to injury and embarrass her, that''s good enough.


    As for what theizens like to say, she''ll just let them be.


    The mouths grew on their faces, she couldn''t manage that much anymore.


    What she needed to do now was to ren her career.


    Now that she had lost the tform of TK, this matter was also implicated with Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    Even if the Huo Group was powerful and her works were outstanding.


    Given Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s current status, people would probably only say that she was bullying others with her power.


    "Rong Dai, Boss Huo, let me say something I shouldn''t. I''m afraid now we can only take preemptive actions."


    "TK attaches great importance to this debut show, Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s reputation in China is obvious."


    "I''m afraid today''s matter couldn''t be covered up. If TK and Brocade Embroidery Workshop speak ambiguously or coborate to coerce the storyline, it would be very damaging to Rong Dai''s career."


    Lu Nianzhi handed the original manuscript to Rong Dai and looked at the couple very seriously.


    In fact, she didn''t need to say much. Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting could understand this reasoning.


    Otherwise, Huo Shao Ting wouldn''t have asked Assistant Zhang to go get the surveince footage just now.


    "I''ll handle this matter," Huo Shao Ting said.


    Seeing this, Lu Nianzhi felt it was inappropriate to say anything more either, so she left the couple''s home after that.


    Upstairs, Rong Dai removed her make up and changed into loungewear beforeing back down with aptop in her arms, sitting on the sofa browsing web pages for updates.


    Huo Shao Ting also changed his clothes and went into the kitchen to make dinner for her.


    Rong Dai typed on herputer. Of course she wouldn''t let herself stay in such a passive position.


    In life, what onepetes for is this breath.


    So what if TK and Brocade Embroidery Workshop joined hands?


    Unless she wanted to give up herself, no obstacles could make her give up this passion.


    "Eat first, okay? Don''t stay hungry," Huo Shao Ting said gently as he walked over with a bowl of hot soup, wearing an apron.


    Seeing him like this, Rong Dai''s face lit up in a smile right away.


    "I''m not that delicate!"


    "While relying on TK''s fame could quickly establish my career."


    "Taking slow steps, figuring things out slowly myself, this might not necessarily be a bad thing."


    She said with a smile.


    She had never been the kind to give up easily. What were these little setbackspared to the dog-blood drama and darkness she experienced in her past life?


    Although she did feel very ufortable earlier, now she was letting it go.


    Not working with TK might really be a good thing after all.


    Because she had Huo Shao Ting behind her!


    What did she have to be afraid of?


    She leaned on his shoulders, holding theptop in her hands. The beautiful eyes were sparkling with stars, her voice gentle.


    "This is what I want to do. You said you''d be behind me," she pointed at the content she had edited on it for him to see.


    "So going slower doesn''t matter. Quietly, I''ll just do what I want to do well."


    "Shoddy work isn''t what I want. I do envy those international top brands for their fame and so many people trusting them."


    "But this incident made me realize, sometimes being too anxious isn''t necessarily a good thing."


    "After going through so much, I didn''t expect myself to be so stubborn about this."


    "TK''s mistake this time awakened me. I actually have to thank them."


    She leaned her hands on his shoulders. Her eyes shined brightly and her voice was gentle.

 Chapter 302: Her Stubbornness

    <h4>Chapter 302</h4>


    All along, she had wanted to catch up with Huo Shao Ting''s footsteps as soon as possible, to be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with him.


    She was very averse to living under the protection of his halo.


    But what happened today made her realize that if it hadn''t been for Huo Shao Ting today...


    TK would definitely not have let her leave so readily, nor would they have been able to get back the original manuscript or obtain the surveince video so easily.


    All of this was made possible because of Huo Shao Ting.


    In her previous life, she was the Queen, born in a prestigious family.


    The nobility and pride ingrained in her bones made her unwilling to bow her head before anyone. But when she first arrived, all she felt was crisis.


    She had no choice but to rein in her sharpness and obediently be a well-behaved daughter-inw.


    She had her own pride, so she didn''t want to rely on others.


    That was why she shut even Huo Shao Ting out.


    So when she made up her mind to make a career for herself, she was stubborn about it.


    But now, upon careful reflection, she had actually been too impatient, with knots still in her heart.


    All she wanted was to prove that she was the woman who could stand by Shao Ting''s side.


    Nothing more.


    Huo Shao Ting chuckled lightly when he heard her say this, and nted a light kiss on her forehead.


    "I''m very d you''ve figured it out."


    "All I want is for you to be happy. I also understand your abilities clearly."


    "But if my wife wants to support me, she still needs some time to grow."


    With his keen insight and perception, how could he not know what she was thinking?


    He had seen her entanglement and stubbornness clearly.


    He knew her status and understood her pride and nobility.


    So as long as she was happy, he would apany her no matter what she did.


    Rong Dai was immediately amused by his words. "In that case, Huo Sir, please bear with the costs of supporting me for now!"


    "Alright..."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her with a faint smile. As long as she could let go, that was good enough.


    He only wanted to live an ordinary married life with her, although such a thought was hard to realize. But he was willing to wait -


    wait until he retired, wait until she grew old.


    Wait until their children grew up and handed thepany over to them, then he would take her to travel the mountains and rivers, eating, drinking, and living simply.


    "Thank you for always...being so amodating of me."


    Rong Dai tiptoed with her hands wrapped around his neck, looking straight into his eyes very, very solemnly as she spoke.


    In fact, even if others didn''t think she was the woman who could stand by Shao Ting''s side, what did it matter?


    As long as he acknowledged her, that was good enough!


    Perhaps it was due to her experience in her previous life, coupled with Shao Ting''s meticulous care for her in this life.


    She would subconsciouslypare them, causing inner turmoil that she herself did not realize.


    "And thank you too for giving me such an opportunity and honor."


    Huo Shao Ting turned around to hug her tightly, giving her a deep kiss.


    Blushing and breathless, Rong Dai finally sat down with her husband to have dinner after he let go.


    After dinner, Rong Dai hugged herptop while Huo Shao Ting hugged her.


    The married couplemunicated together.


    Rong Dai found that with Huo Shao Ting''s help, her thinking became clearer and her ns more well-defined.


    Listening to Huo Shao Ting''s patient guidance warmed her heart.


    In this life, meeting this man was truly her greatest blessing.


    He bore so well with her "misdeeds", and after things went wrong, he did not reproach her at all - merely helping her handle the aftermath and teaching her how to solve the problems while exhorting her not to repeat the mistakes again.


    His tolerance and gentleness made it impossible for her to leave his side ever again.


    "I''m sleepy, darling..."


    In the midst of typing, she suddenly closed theptop childishly and threw herself into his arms, hugging his neck coquettishly.

 Chapter 303: Emergency

    <h4>Chapter 303</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting saw her taking the initiative, and his breathing gradually became heavier.


    Although he had already shared countless moments of passion with her, every time still left him longing for more.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were blurred, and she took the initiative to offer her lips.


    "Ow!"


    A sudden sharp pain came from her lower abdomen, and her face immediately turned pale!


    Rong Dai gasped, and her whole body went soft as she copsed into his arms.


    Huo Shao Ting''s face changed, and he quickly got up to support her as shey down on the sofa. He felt something warm on his palm.


    He looked down and saw it was all crimson.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks instantly burned hotly, how could this embarrassing thing happen again?


    She really wanted to exin, but the abdominal pain was so severe, it felt like knives stirring inside, hurting so much that cold sweat kept streaming down her body!


    Huo Shao Ting was extremely distressed, and hurriedly carried her upstairs.


    After padding the bed with towels, he personally helped attach her sanitary pad, took out a clean pair of house pants and put them aside, then carried her into the bathroom.


    Rong Dai hated that she couldn''t find a hole in the ground to crawl into!


    But the abdominal pain really made her rather die, so she simply closed her eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting was very thoughtful, after taking care of these things, he went downstairs to skillfully cook ginger brown sugar soup for her and brought it up.


    Rong Dai was in so much pain that her vision grew blurry, and her face was frighteningly pale.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned, reached out to touch her hand and found it was frighteningly icy cold.


    Rong Dai knew her own body very well, and ording to the timing, her "rtive" should not havee at this time.


    "Shao Ting... I, I want to go to the hospital."


    Ever since she went to the film and television city to shoot, her menstruation had been a little irregr, especially after nearly drowning that time.


    Since they both took a go-with-the-flow approach to having children, she hadn''t paid particr attention to the arrival of this "rtive".


    But the current situation seemed a bit off, it really hurt too much!


    It felt a bit like...when she miscarried that child in her past life.


    In an instant, tremendous terror gripped her heart. She tightly grabbed Huo Shao Ting''s cor with great force, even causing him some pain.


    "Alright!"


    Seeing her in such unbearable pain, suddenly in great horror, Huo Shao Ting''s heart sank. He grabbed a coat to wrap her up securely then carried her downstairs.


    "Shao Ting... hurry up!"


    Lying in the back seat, Rong Dai felt the area behind her grow wet, and the smell of blood grew thicker and thicker.


    She reached back to touch it, and upon seeing her entire hand covered in bright red blood, she turned deathly pale, eyes wide with fright!


    "Sha-, Shao Ting..."


    She cried out to him with sobs in her voice. Huo Shao Ting looked back and saw her blood-covered palm, he was also scared out of his wits!


    All the way speeding to the hospital, a patrol car even chased them from behind.


    "My wife is critically ill! You can issue me a fine, I''ll deal with itter!"


    Huo Shao Ting''s face was anxious as he got out and saw the patrol officer about to stop him. He rapidly said this one sentence before diving back into the car to carry Rong Dai out.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s wanplexion and the blood dripping down her body, even the patrol officer''s face changed as he let them save the person first.


    Huo Shao Ting carried her charging into the emergency room. Seeing Rong Dai losing so much blood, even the ER doctor was frightened!


    The red emergency light quickly lit up in the emergency room.


    Huo Shao Ting stood in the hallway, his mindpletely nk, especially when he saw his own hands covered in blood, the bright red blood on his white shirt was particrly eye-catching.


    This nearly two-meter tall man couldn''t help but tremble all over like a sieve.


    He watched the emergency room expectantly. After about five minutes, several doctors came rushing down the hall into the operating room.


    "Doctor, my wife, she..."


    Huo Shao Ting wanted to ask more, but the operating room door swiftly shut.

 Chapter 304: Not Saved

    <h4>Chapter 304</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s mind waspletely nk, and his whole body felt like his blood had coagted. He couldn''t even think.


    It wasn''t until the doctor came out of the operating room with hands covered in fresh blood that he barely regained his senses.


    "Doctor, how is my wife?" He hurriedly walked over to ask.


    The doctor looked at him with a very regretful expression, sighed lightly, and shook his head. "Mr. Huo, I''m very sorry..."


    "Impossible!"


    Before the doctor could finish speaking, Huo Shao Ting lost control and roared furiously!


    The doctor and nurses were startled, but fortunately the doctor had strong psychological endurance. He continued speaking first.


    "Mr. Huo, please calm down first."


    "Mrs. Huo showed signs of threatened miscarriage, and we really could not save this child."


    "I''m very sorry, we also regret this very much."


    The doctor''s words stunned Huo Shao Ting, and his mind exploded like a bolt from the blue!


    A child?!


    Rong''er was actually pregnant?


    He didn''t even know, and still...


    In an instant, tremendous remorse and panic shrouded him, and he couldn''t breathe steadily for a long time.


    But what relieved him was that Rong Dai was fine.


    "How is my wife''s health?"


    He regained hisposure. As long as she was okay, they could have another child in the future.


    Seeing that he had almost instantly regained his senses, the doctor also marveled at this ability to recover.


    "Mrs. Huo''s current physical condition is still stable. As long as she recuperates properly, she will recover quickly."


    Only then did Huo Shao Ting heave a deep sigh of relief.


    "We will move Mrs. Huo to a ward. Mr. Huo... you should go home first to clean up, and bring some daily necessities for Mrs. Huo, as well as some nursing products. Our hospital can provide them, or you can also purchase them elsewhere."


    The doctor conscientiously reminded him.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, but did not leave immediately. Instead, he waited for Rong Dai to be wheeled out of the operating room.


    She had been given anesthesia and had fallen into aa.


    Looking at her pale face, Huo Shao Ting felt guilty, and his heart ached sharply.


    He reached out to stroke her hair, leaned down and kissed her forehead, and said in a voice that only he could hear: "I''m sorry..."


    It was his negligence and carelessness that caused her to suffer this ordeal.


    The doctor watched this scene and couldn''t help but be moved.


    "Mr. Huo, in fact the gestational sac of this child was not well developed. You don''t need to me yourself too much. I believe you and Mrs. Huo will have children in the future."


    "Now Mrs. Huo''s body is weak. Although not a full delivery, even a minor miscarriage takes a heavy toll on a woman''s body. I suggest you consider contacting a postpartum care center."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, and went with the doctor to push Rong Dai into her private room.


    Looking at Rong Dai lying in bed, Huo Shao Ting held her hand for a long time without saying a word.


    More than ten minutester, he got up to tuck the quilt snugly around her, then turned and left the room to call Lu Nianzhi.


    "Boss Huo, how is Rong Dai?"


    Lu Nianzhi hurried to the hospital and asked him anxiously.


    Seeing the dried blood stains on Huo Shao Ting''s white shirt, her heart started pounding wildly.


    Huo Shao Ting looked deeply into her eyes. "Stay with her for me. I''m going home and will be back soon."


    He didn''t offer any exnation, just instructed her in one sentence before leaving the hospital.


    When he exited the hospital, he saw the traffic policeman still waiting by his car.


    Seeing hime out, the traffic cop didn''t mention anything about the ticket. Instead he first asked, "Is madam okay?"


    He also didn''t expect to intercept the "emperor" of Beijing City right when he started his shift.


    With an expressionless and very cold face, Huo Shao Ting replied, "She''s fine. I''ll have my assistant handle things at the traffic police department."


    Seeing his courteous attitude, and without saying another word, the traffic cop allowed him to leave.

 Chapter 305: The Heart Is Torn Apart

    <h4>Chapter 305</h4>


    When Huo Shao Ting returned to Huafu Mountain City and saw the puddle of crimson blood on the sofa, his eyes darkened.


    Subconsciously, he clenched his fists tightly, his lips pressed together firmly!


    It was as if a movie was reying in his mind, with Rong Dai''s painful appearance emerging again and again.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart ached as if it was torn to shreds!


    He took a deep breath, withdrew his gaze, and then called Zhang Assistant.


    When Zhang Assistant received the call, he was a little puzzled why Huo Shao Ting would want to change the sofa in the middle of the night for no reason.


    It wasn''t until he saw the bloodstains on the sofa that he instantly understood everything!


    Zhang Assistant''s face was also somewhat stiff. This scene seemed familiar.


    When he and his wife got married not long ago, there were simr bloodstains on their sofa.


    As someone who had gone through this before and also did not see Rong Dai, he immediately realized what had happened.


    He instructed the workers to take away the sofa while he waited in the living room.


    In the bathroom, Huo Shao Ting showered for a long time, spending most of the time looking at his own hands.


    These hands...were stained with Rong Dai''s blood.


    After changing into a suit and packing some of Rong Dai''s pajamas and things she would need, Huo Shao Ting came downstairs.


    "Chief Executive."


    Zhang Assistant stood ramrod straight, for the first time daring to meet Huo Shao Ting''s gaze directly.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at where the sofa used to be, then shifted his gaze back to Zhang Assistant: "We''ll talk about thepany tomorrow."


    He was in no mood for that right now.


    His wife was more important than anything!


    Zhang Assistant looked at him. "There are no issues with thepany. I think...the madam may need to book a postpartum care center, it would be better to leave this to the professionals."


    Huo Shao Ting stopped in his tracks and looked at Zhang Assistant with an extremely cold gaze that was frightening.


    Zhang Assistant couldn''t help but give a wry smile, a mournful expression on his face. "Shortly after my wife and I got married, neither of us knew much back then and we lost our child too."


    "We didn''t have much money back then either and didn''t know about postpartum care centers. After getting treated at the hospital, we just went back home."


    "It''s been so many years, but we''ve never been able to conceive again after that. That incident caused severe damage to Renren''s body."


    Upon hearing Zhang Assistant''s words, Huo Shao Ting''s fingers holding the bag turned white.


    "The madam is still young now and you two also have the means. Don''t let yourselves regret it in the future." Zhang Assistant gave his advice despite risking his job.


    After so many years, this was still a memory that he and Renren were unwilling to revisit.


    "Also, because of the TK incident tonight, the madam is currently in the public spotlight. I suggest transferring her to a more private hospital, I will keep a close eye on the media situation."


    Zhang Assistant was very clear on how devastating that period had been for his wife Renren.


    If those unscrupulous media outlets took this chance to sensationalize the story now, it would only add insult to injury.


    "Give me a list of postpartum care centers to review. I want any media outlet that dares to report on this cklisted!" Huo Shao Ting said in a very cold tone.


    Zhang Assistant nodded before leaving Huafu Mountain City to handle things.


    Carrying the bag, Huo Shao Ting switched to another car and drove to the hospital.


    At the hospital, Lu Nianzhi stayed by Rong Dai''s side while she still remained unconscious.


    Lu Nianzhi already understood what happened after speaking with the doctors. She really did not expect something like this to happen.


    "CEO Huo, I suggest transferring Rong Dai to a better hospital. She was pregnant this time without even realizing it herself and didn''t have any symptoms."


    "I consulted the doctors, the near drowning back then caused massive damage to her body. As for the child this time...she is still young, with proper recuperation, she will get better."


    Although she had never been a mother herself, as a woman, she knew a lot more about such matters than Huo Shao Ting.

 Chapter 306: No Fate With Us

    <h4>Chapter 306</h4>


    "It''s already been arranged, it will be transferred soon, go take care of the transfer formalities," Huo Shao Ting responded, his gaze fixed tightly on Rong Dai''s face.


    Lu Nianzhi felt reassured and also looked towards Rong Dai lying on the hospital bed, hesitating for a few seconds before asking him: "Should we not tell the aunties about this?"


    Huo Shao Ting frowned. "They would onlye and noisy her rest."


    Lu Nianzhi did not have anything more to say, he immediately turned and went out to take care of the transfer formalities.


    Huo Shao Ting put down his bag and walked to the bedside to sit down, holding Rong Dai''s slender hands and kissing them.


    The skin that had been rubbed off was scabbing over; he kissed it deeply, his eyes full of heartache and self-me.


    He was very clear on how desperately she wanted a child.


    Aside from her previous life''s status, she was still so young yet willing to be the mother of his child. He should have been more attentive to her.


    He should have noticed.


    After all, they had always been careless, yet he was so careless this time!


    Huo Shao Ting med and resented himself, the man who was usually as majestic as an emperor, now had reddened eyes again.


    Lu Nianzhi''s actions were swift, in less than an hour Rong Dai had already been transferred to a safer hospital.


    Huo Shao Ting kept vigil by Rong Dai''s side the entire night, the sleepless night made his face look extremely fatigued.


    It was only early morning when Rong Dai groggily woke up.


    The moment she saw the white ceiling, she immediately became alert!


    Her first instinct was to reach for her lower abdomen, but as soon as she moved she realized her hand was being held by Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting..."


    She turned her head to look at him, the red blood vessels in his eyes were so obvious, his wearyplexion so concentrated.


    She was very clear this was not a feeling from seeing "rtives".


    She looked at him, eyes staring nkly, voice cautious yet flustered as she asked him: "Shao Ting, could I be..."


    "Could I be pregnant? Did the baby make it?"


    She asked with difficulty.


    But she was very clear that with her current condition, how could the baby possibly still be safe?


    Upon hearing her words, Huo Shao Ting''s breathing stagnated slightly, his grip on her hand tightened somewhat.


    "...We will have one in the future."


    His voice was a little hoarse, low and sinking.


    Rong Dai just looked at him, mouth slightly open, unable to say anything more.


    Her tears instantly rolled down her cheeks, one after another, sshing onto the pillow in big drops.


    Arge wet patch quickly formed on the snow white pillow.


    "I''m sorry..."


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting with agonized, apologetic eyes, voice trembling as she uttered those three words.


    Her heart felt like it was being ripped apart, bloody and mangled!


    Rong Dai never imagined she would have to endure the pain of losing a child again in this second life!


    Her tears cascaded down uncontrobly like a copsed dam!


    She could not make a sound as she cried, but as she cried her body started to tremble, eyes and nose turning red.


    Huo Shao Ting felt like his heart was being smashed by a fierce punch, the pain leaving him almost unable to breathe.


    He got up and embraced her in his arms, kissing her forehead lightly as he said: "This isn''t your fault, this child was not fated to be with us."


    But he knew that this definitely involved some mistakes on his part.


    If he had not been so lustful, she would not be in so much agony.


    This mistake was brought about by him.


    Upon hearing his constion, Rong Dai found it even harder to restrain herself.


    She finally broke out into loud sobs, hands clutching his clothes tightly as she cried inconsbly in his embrace!


    Why, why was it so difficult for her to just want a healthy child, to be a mother?


    Why did she have to suffer this torment again in her second life? Was she really unworthy of happiness?


    At this time Rong Dai spiralled into self-doubt, crying desperately in Huo Shao Ting''s arms with a broken heart.

 Chapter 307: Can鈥檛 Take It for Her

    <h4>Chapter 307</h4>


    Rong Dai cried sorrowfully in his arms until she got a splitting headache and fell into a dizzy sleep.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at therge wet patch on his chest and felt his heart being pricked by needles, leaking wind through hundreds of holes.


    Her pain was no less than his distress.


    Huo Shao Ting put Rong Dai down, tucked her in properly, and squeezed his temples. His phone vibrated in his pocket and he turned to go out.


    It was a call from Zhang Assistant, giving him a timely report on thepany''s situation.


    After being on the phone for over half an hour, he gave several instructions and then sat down on a chair in the hospital corridor to catch his breath.


    "Mr. Huo, why are you sitting outside? Is Rong Dai awake?"


    Lu Nianzhi came over with a pot of simmered pigeon soup she had cooked and asked when she saw Huo Shao Ting sitting outside looking gloomy.


    Huo Shao Ting turned his head to nce at her and said heavily, "Awake."


    But thinking of Rong Dai''s tears flowing like broken strands of pearls just now, he didn''t feel like talking anymore.


    Lu Nianzhi was perceptive. Seeing his haggard face, she sighed helplessly in her heart too.


    "Why don''t you go back and rest for a while first? I''ll keep an eye on things here."


    Huo Shao Ting shook his head. How could he possibly feel like sleeping at a time like this?


    Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Rong Dai covered in blood and crying her heart out.


    Apart from feeling heartache and self-me, he couldn''t take on even a shred of the physical pain she was bearing.


    "Rong Dai is very strong. Give her some time."


    Since he didn''t seem receptive, Lu Nianzhi could onlyfort him like that.


    "I cooked some pigeon soupst night. Get her to eat something when she wakes upter."


    She handed the thermal container to the bodyguard standing outside the door while instructing Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. Just as Lu Nianzhi was about to leave, she hesitated and continued, "I think you should let Auntie and Grandma know about this."


    "Although Rong Dai needs to rest, something like this must have left her very distressed. She may not necessarily listen to you, but Auntie and Grandma have gone through this before."


    "It''s easier for women tomunicate with each other. I think you should let theme see Rong Dai. This isn''t just a matter between the two of you as a married couple."


    "There are still some things to deal with at thepany. Contact me if anythinges up. I''ll take my leave so as not to disturb you."


    After saying that, Lu Nianzhi left the hospital.


    Stepping out, she looked up at the gloomy sky and felt a heavy weight on her heart.


    She ced a hand on her lower abdomen and heaved a long sigh.


    If not for what had happened five years ago... Would she be a mother now too?


    "What am I thinking about..."


    Lu Nianzhi suddenly came to her senses and smiled wryly and self-deprecatingly before driving off.


    Huo Shao Ting sat in the corridor for a few minutes before taking the thermal container into the ward.


    Seeing Rong Dai still sobbing in her sleep, his heart ached bitterly.


    He crouched down to look at her face and reached out to tidy her disheveled hair by her ears.


    He had thought he was strong enough to protect her well, but ever since they got married...


    No, it should be from when she came into his world.


    She had been going through one peril after another, again and again.


    Every time, he would be toote. Other than making amends, he couldn''t even prevent what had happened.


    Losing their child, his pain was no less than hers.


    But his heart ached more for her, for what she had to endure that he could not bear in her ce.


    He kissed her cheek and used his hand to wipe the tears that overflowed from the corners of her eyes, recalling Lu Nianzhi''s words. He then got up to make a call.

 Chapter 308: It鈥檚 My Fault

    <h4>Chapter 308</h4>


    Mrs Huo was drinking tea at home, and Huo Mei Shu was apanying her by her side. When Uncle Li brought her the phone, the olddy was a little surprised.


    Huo Shao Ting was silent for a few seconds before speaking when he heard Grandma pick up the phone.


    His voice was hoarse and filled with fatigue.


    "Grandma."


    She had raised Huo Shao Ting with her own hands, and although she could not say that she understood this eldest grandsonpletely, she knew that whatever made him address her directly must be something even he himself could not deal with.


    "Grandma''s here, tell me whatever difficulties you have."


    The olddy gently answered him while signaling to Huo Mei Shu by her side to stop fussing around.


    Huo Mei Shu was eating pastries that Rong Dai had brought over yesterday. She obediently nodded her head.


    Huo Shao Ting took a deep breath before saying, "Rong Dai...had a miscarriage."


    "It was my fault. She didn''t know she was pregnant and neither did I. We''ve been together these past few days."


    "The embryonic sac was also not developing well and her body was not nursed back to health properly, so the child could not be kept."


    The olddy''s expression changed instantly and the teacup in her hand fell to the ground, porcin shards flying everywhere.


    "How is Rong Dai now?"


    The olddy''s voice was anxious and full of worry.


    She had not expected that the great-grandchild she had long anticipated would be gone just like that!


    "She woke up once, kept crying, and is now asleep," Huo Shao Ting said, his voice seemingly calm, but only he himself knew just how heartbroken he actually was.


    "That won''t do. This kind of thing does great harm to a woman''s body�Dheartbreak hurts the heart while loss drains one''s vital essence."


    Although the olddy was also extremely distressed, what was done could not be undone. She would not me Rong Dai either.


    The child was sensible and still so young. She should have taught her earlier about such matters in her capacity as the old mother-inw.


    "So... I was hoping Grandma could counsel her. It wasn''t her fault; this child simply could not have been kept to begin with."


    Huo Shao Ting said. Only this kind of exnation would make Rong Dai feel better emotionally.


    The olddy made a sound of acknowledgment before hanging up the call.


    "Grandma, what happened to my sister-inw?"


    Huo Mei Shu had been frightened by the sound of the olddy dropping her teacup earlier. She also sensed that something bad had happened.


    The olddy sighed and passed the phone to Uncle Li.


    "Your sister-inw...had a miscarriage."


    "What?!"


    Unlike theposure of the olddy, Huo Mei Shu was so shocked that she immediately stood up!


    Hadn''t everything been fine just yesterday?


    How could she suddenly miscarry like that?


    "When did my sister-inw get pregnant? She showed no signs or symptoms at all!"


    Huo Mei Shu could not help asking.


    The olddy sighed and shook her head. "Everyone has a different constitution. This was an oversight on my part. Your sister-inw is two years younger than you. Naturally she would not understand such matters."


    "I should have thought of this earlier�Dit was my negligence."


    For a moment, Huo Mei Shu was very confused. When she thought about her sister-inw and her unborn niece or nephew, she felt heartbroken.


    "Can we go visit my sister-inw in the hospital?"


    "The reason your eldest brother called was for this purpose. Rong Dai is a kind-hearted child who has always longed to have children. Experiencing something like this now is harder on her than anyone else."


    "When you see Rong Daiter, advise your mother not to make remarks that might upset her. What happened this time was also your eldest brother''s fault�Dhe should have handled things more prudently."


    The olddy said helplessly while unable to refrain from wanting to rebuke Huo Shao Ting. If anything happened to Rong Dai''s health because of this, how could she let them get divorced?


    Huo Mei Shu was well aware of her mother''s sharp tongue. She nodded and was about to go downstairs.


    "Am I the kind of person with no sense of propriety?"


    She had just turned around when Lu Zheng, holding a fruit tter, suddenly appeared at the door with a somewhat gloomy expression.

 Chapter 309: Tie Up and Punch

    <h4>Chapter 309</h4>


    "Mum, Grandma didn''t mean it that way..."


    Huo Meishu felt a headacheing on.


    Lu Zheng put down the fruit te and turned around with a somber expression. "I''ll go make some chicken soup. You apany Grandma and go check on your sister-inw."


    After saying that, she went downstairs.


    "Grandma..."


    Huo Meishu helplessly turned to look at the olddy.


    The olddy sighed and shook her head. "I know she''s not happy about it, but the matter of the housekeeper must be handled by your sister-inw."


    "You know what your mother is like, and you''re well aware of it yourself."


    "If she wants to hate someone, let her hate this old woman, it doesn''t matter."


    Huo Meishu sighed in her heart. It''s true what they say, every family has its own problems.


    And that statement is indeed correct.


    The Huo family may be a wealthy one, but issues between mother-inws and daughters-inw still exist.


    "Let''s go to the hospital to see your sister-inw first. She must be devastated. I''m sure my eldest son... is also feeling miserable. I''ll call your second brother and let him know."


    Huo Meishu supported the olddy and prepared to go downstairs, changing the subject.


    The issue of Grandma and Mom should be left for them to resolve on their own.


    She didn''t want to be a scapegoat.


    Soon, the grandmother and granddaughter went downstairs and got into the car. Huo Meishu called Huo Shaojie.


    The filming of "Supreme Empress" was alreadypleted, and now they were focusing on post-production. The production team had already announced that it would be released this year.


    When Huo Shaojie received her call, he was eating instant noodles. Gu Chengyan had juste with his assistant to discuss the musicposition.


    Because he was sitting next to Huo Shaojie, Gu Chengyan could clearly hear Huo Meishu''s words.


    For so many days, she had been refusing to answer his calls. This little girl had quite the temper.


    Huo Shaojie was also shocked when he learned about Rong Dai''s miscarriage!


    Wouldn''t his dear eldest brother... feel like the sky was falling and the earth was crumbling?


    "You and Grandma go ahead. Send me the addresster, and I''lle over after I tidy up."


    This concerned the bloodline of the Huo family. Even if the crew exploded right now, he would rush over immediately!


    Huo Meishu responded, and the siblings hung up.


    Gu Chengyan, who was listening on the side, also thought of Rong Dai.


    Although they hadn''t met many times, this sister-inw of the Huo family was easy to remember at first nce.


    The rtionship between the young girl and her sister-inw seemed to be very good...


    "I''ll go with you."


    He suddenly looked up at Huo Shaojie and said firmly, his gaze unwavering.


    Huo Shaojie put on his coat and shaved while shaking his head. "That''s impossible. This is my family matter. Why would you go? Just focus on getting the music done for me."


    "Besides, you and my little sister are really not suitable. If it weren''t for your talent in this field, I wouldn''t bother having so much contact with you. You''re just a weirdo."


    "This time, you''ve hurt my little sister quite badly. If you want to see her, figure it out yourself."


    Gu Chengyan froze, staring at him dumbfounded.


    He didn''t expect Huo Shaojie to reject him so decisively!


    Wasn''t he afraid of dying his progress?


    "If you dare to dy, I guarantee that my little sister will leave the country immediately."


    Huo Shaojie saw through his thoughts with a single nce.


    Upon hearing this, Gu Chengyan''s face immediately turned as dark as the bottom of a pot.


    Huo Shaojie finished dressing and started shaving.


    Noticing the other person''s unhappy expression, there was a pause for a few seconds before saying, "Guess what ce my eldest brother would choose if my sister-inw''s health hadplications, considering his personality?"


    "Well, I''ve given you a hint. Whether you can figure it out or not depends on you."


    "However, I still want to remind you."


    "If you haven''t handled your own matters properly, don''t provoke her. My younger sister is innocent and can''t withstand your tricks, you sly fox."


    "I won''t say much about your Gu Mingci, but if she bullies my sister, I can tie you and her together and give you both a beating."


    Huo Shaojie rarely spoke so seriously, which is why he strongly opposed Huo Meishu pursuing Gu Chengyan.

 Chapter 310: The Next Gu Mingci

    <h4>Chapter 310</h4>


    "From childhood to adulthood, whenever that person in your family gets sick, you drop everything no matter what and make Gu Mingci your ancestor to worship."


    "Since she''s your ancestor plus a patient, let me say something nasty - just let her stayfortably in the hospital and you can support her well. Anyway, the Gu family medical fees are something you can afford."


    "If you just want to take care of your Gu Mingci, then don''t drag my Mei Shu into this."


    "Mei Shu is simple-minded without much cunning, but that person in your family - you''re blind and my brain isn''t damaged."


    "Anyway, you''re not blood-rted, spending your days together isn''t bad either, and she does like you after all."


    Huo ShaoJie''s words were very impolite.


    Although he had been soaking in the drama crew these days without going back, his mother''s phone calls never stopped. He was clear about what was going on at home.


    "But you want my Mei Shu to go be her caretaker, that''s impossible. Might as well forget about the broken rtionship between our families if it''s unimportant. My big brother likes to set traps for people."


    "I''m more direct - you can quit working on my drama crew, but hurting my Mei Shu, I won''t let you off."


    "Gu Chengyan, I didn''t expect you to be so unscrupulous after all these years of me taking care of you like a brother!"


    "A single Gu Mingci is enough to confuse you about right and wrong. Do you want to turn my Mei Shu into a second Gu Mingci?"


    Huo ShaoJie coldly snorted, staring at him with icy eyes, then picked up his phone and left.


    Gu Chengyan''s face didn''t look good.


    Mingci just relied on him more, and she was also a patient.


    And with her helping out at the studio, he had been quite rxed over the years.


    But now even Huo ShaoJie spoke like this, inevitably shaking his inner heart a little.


    He knew he was in the wrong for yelling at the young girl in anxious hastiness that day.


    But in that situation, he was truly worried about Mingci''s illness and temporarily didn''t consider much else.


    He assumed the young girl would understand him.


    Yet he didn''t expect that after handling things and returning, the young girl had packed up and left spotlessly clean.


    He pondered Huo ShaoJie''s words, suddenly realizing it had been a long time since he visited Gu Mingci''s primary doctor.


    All along, it was only Mingci alone contacting and getting medication by herself.


    Ever since Mingci moved out of the household, her family stopped overseeing her, and her parents hardly interacted with her either.


    This left him a bit puzzled, although when he asked his parents, their response was cold.


    After all, Gu Mingci had been raised in the Gu household for so many years already. She herself was someone abandoned once before.


    He didn''t want Mingci to feel abandoned by him again.


    Also, she had great talent in music, so he kept her at the studio.


    Everyone knew of their rtionship, but what did Huo ShaoJie just say earlier?


    Mingci was fond of him?


    Gu Chengyan''s eyes darkened. He instructed his assistant to handle matters.


    Looking at his phone, he hesitated for a moment without calling. Instead he turned and left to drive to Gu Mingci''s primary doctor.


    "Mr. Gu?"


    Upon seeing Gu Chengyan, the primary doctor was clearly rather surprised.


    "Did Ms. Gu rpse? But that''s not right. Ms. Gu''s condition isn''t severe. We adopted the optimal treatment n, and she''s already recovered!


    "ording to medical data, she won''t rpse again!"


    Without waiting for Gu Chengyan to inquire, the primary doctor readily rified first.


    "No, I''m just a little worried these past few days. Her mental condition seems a bit off, so I specially came to consult."


    Gu Chengyan replied.


    The primary doctor nodded, pouring him a ss of water, then turned to the file cab to fetch Gu Mingci''s medical record and handed it over to him.

 Chapter 311: Shots Hurt

    <h4>Chapter 311</h4>


    Aftering out of the hospital, Gu Chengyan''s face was very unhappy.


    He did not expect that Gu Mingci would deceive him like this!


    Thinking of the aggrieved and stunned appearance of the little girl crying that day, Gu Chengyan''s whole face was as cold as frost.


    He did not immediately return to find Gu Mingci, but first went to a mobile phone store and changed to a new mobile phone.


    "Sir... There is indeed a wiretap installed on your phone."


    The phone repairer handed a tiny wiretap to him.


    Gu Chengyan''s eyes were sinister, he was always gentle and indifferent to worldly affairs, making people think he would always be like this.


    But I didn''t expect that he would also be so terrible when he got angry.


    Once this person bes suspicious, his brain isparable to Sherlock Holmes.


    He didn''t call the attending doctor just now, he just thought of some of his previous things, it was as if Mingci could predict everything.


    If there was no problem with the assistant around him, then he was being eavesdropped on.


    Moreover, his mobile phone was broken once, and it was Gu Mingci who took it to get it fixed for him.


    Now, it has been confirmed.


    Looking at the small wiretap in front of him, after inquiring clearly, he asked someone to check Gu Mingci''s purchase record.


    Everything went very smoothly, so smooth that Gu Chengyan could hardly believe his eyes.


    A younger sister whom he had carefully taken care of for so many years actually designed him like this!


    It also made the little girl at his house so angry.


    Gu Chengyan finally understood why Huo Shaojie was so cold at thepany just now.


    He took all the evidence back to the Gu house and did not immediately go to find Huo Meishu.


    There was one thing Huo Shaojie was right about, he had to get things sorted out first.


    ......


    Huo Meishu did not know about these things. She and the Old Madam had just rushed to the hospital.


    "Big brother, you..."


    When she saw Huo Shaoting''s face full of stubble and haggard, Huo Meishu was taken aback.


    The Old Madam took a look at the ward, then let Huo Meishu go in to see Rong Dai, and signaled Huo Shaoting to go to the other side to talk.


    "What did the doctor say? Rong Rong''s body didn''t leave any disease, did it?"


    Huo Shaoting looked at the Old Madam with deep eyes, and said lightly with pursed lips: "She will be fine."


    After a pause of two or three seconds, he added firmly: "Even if Rong can''t give birth, I won''t divorce her."


    "And this matter is my fault."


    "Granny, I respect you, but this is between me and Rong." I asked you and my mother toe over just to persuade her."


    "I don''t want her to be sad, and I feel bad for her too."


    "If you are just concerned about the inheritance of the Huo family bloodline, and Shaojie and Meishu, they are younger than me, having children is not a problem."


    "Shaojie has time, he can have a few more, I can raise them all, it''s not a problem."


    His tone was serious and earnest, mixed with coldness.


    He and Rong both wanted to be parents and have their own children, of course this was a good thing.


    But if not, he didn''t care, he just wanted his wife to be with him and live their days happily together.


    "Big brother, what nonsense are you talking about? My sister-inw is still young, how could there be a problem!"


    "Besides, medical science is so advanced now, IVF technology is very mature!"


    Huo Shaojie had just arrived, and when he heard what Huo Shaoting said to the Old Madam, he was so scared that his legs went weak, and he hurriedly said with a smile.


    Huo Shaoting nced at him lightly: "Injections hurt a lot."


    Huo Shaojie: "......"


    So in the future when his wife gives birth, it won''t hurt?!


    What kind of big brother is this! It''s really...


    But he only dared to mock Huo Shaoting in his heart, he didn''t dare say it out loud.

 Chapter 312: Honey, Look at me

    <h4>Chapter 312</h4>


    "Sister-inw, don''t cry! Alright alright, I won''t say anything more, okay?"


    When the three people were talking outside the door, Huo Mei Shu''s panicked voice came from inside the ward.


    Huo Shao Ting''s face changed, and he immediately walked towards the ward.


    "Big brother...I didn''t say anything, I just told sister-inw to rx, then she started crying..."


    Seeing hime in, Huo Mei Shu was very nervous and anxiously exined.


    Huo Shao Ting had a gloomy expression. He nced at her without saying anything, then went to Rong Dai and held her hand.


    Rong Dai was lying curled up on the hospital bed. Her slender body was curled up in a ball, and she didn''t cry out.


    But her tears kept flowing down like a broken string of pearls.


    In just a few seconds, the pillow that had just been changed was wet again.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart ached. He squatted in front of the bed, stroking her head. His eyes were full of distress.


    "Wife, look at me."


    "It''s my fault, I didn''t protect you well..."


    Seeing her cry, Huo Shao Ting felt like his heart was being ripped apart!


    Rong Dai looked at him with tears in her eyes and shook her head firmly.


    This was not his fault.


    She just couldn''t stop her tears when she thought about how her child was lost inexplicably before she even knew of his/her arrival.


    Huo Mei Shu stood nervously to the side. She med herself for saying the wrong thing that made Rong Dai cry.


    "This..."


    Huo Shao Jie and Mrs. Huo stood together. Seeing this scene, they couldn''t help but feel their noses sour.


    Mrs. Huo sighed lightly and shook her head.


    "Let''s go. There''s nothing we can do about this. Only Rong Rong herself can get through this."


    As someone who''s been through this before, no matter how muchfort people give now, if Rong Rong gets stuck in her grievances, it would be useless.


    "Should we just leave like this? Since we came, shouldn''t we say something to sister-inw?"


    Huo Shao Jie had witnessed Rong Dai''s resilience at the TV studio. Even when she was hurt badly by Yang Wanwan, she hadn''t been as fragile as now.


    The current sister-inw was like a piece of fragile ss.


    "Sister-inw listens to you. I think if Granny talks to her, sister-inw may listen."


    He added while ncing at Huo Shao Ting.


    He hadn''t seen... his big brother look so disheveled in a long time.


    In his memories, big brother had always been impably dressed with stern features.


    Only during the most difficult times for thepany had he seen his big brother looking so exhausted.


    Mrs. Huo sighed as she looked at Rong Dai on the bed. Still, she lovingly walked over.


    "Let me talk to Rong Rong. You go tidy up."


    "Looking so haggard, won''t Rong Rong feel even worse seeing you like this?"


    "And I didn''t mean to pressure her to conceive quickly just now. I wasn''t saying that Rong Rong is infertile and you should divorce her if she can''t have kids."


    "My olddy is not that feudal. If needed, Shao Jie and Mei Shu can simply have more kids. It''s all the same."


    "Granny..."


    Upon hearing this, Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu eximed involuntarily. They felt their bodies twitch.


    They hadn''t even gotten married yet but were already being arranged to have kids!


    "Big brother, Granny is right."


    "Sister-inw listens to Granny. Let Granny talk to her."


    Huo Shao Jie quickly changed the topic.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at Rong Dai, who had finally stopped crying. He stood up and leaned down to kiss her forehead.


    "I''ll be right back, okay?"


    Rong Dai blinked to signify her consent before he left.

 Chapter 313: I won鈥檛 leave You out.

    <h4>Chapter 313</h4>


    After Huo Shao Ting and his two sisters left the ward, the Old Madam only sat down on the chair in front of the hospital bed and took out some tissues to wipe away Rong Dai''s tears.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were very red. In just one night, she had lost all her spirit.


    She looked dispirited, like an eggnt that had been frosted.


    "Granny...I''m sorry."


    Although Rong Dai was heartbroken, she was not in a state ofplete copse.


    She only dared to be willful and act coquettishly in front of Huo Shao Ting.


    Even in front of the Old Madam who had always stood up for her, she did not dare.


    The interactions between people were just so strange.


    "Silly girl, that''s not something you should say."


    Seeing her cry like this, the Old Madam also felt very distressed.


    "It''s Granny who didn''t fulfill her duties. You''re still young. Granny should have talked to you about some things in advance."


    The Old Madam held her hand and exined to her earnestly.


    Rong Dai pursed her lips tightly as tears rolled down her cheeks silently again.


    How could she not know?


    In her previous life, although she had no fortune to be a mother, she still had some perception when she was pregnant.


    But this time she did not notice anything, and had been so willful, which led to such a big mistake.


    If she had been more careful and perceptive, or if she had gone to the hospital for an examination earlier, this might not have happened.


    "Granny knows you are heartbroken. Granny knows you are a good girl."


    "It''s just that this child was not meant to be yours and Shao Ting''s. Our Huo family was not fortunate enough to be this child''s rtives."


    "What is meant to be wille, what is meant to be ours will be ours."


    The Old Madam gently patted her slender hand tofort her.


    "The doctor told Granny that your body was not well rested during the filming. This child was unlucky and the gestational sac was inherently poorly developed from the beginning, so it could not be kept."


    "You are heartbroken, and Shao Ting is also heartbroken because of you."


    "Now that the child is gone, he would not bear to see you so sad either."


    "Take good care of yourself, rest well. Children are a gift from heaven. You are a good girl. Heaven will not miss your share."


    The Old Madam''sfort rekindled a me of hope in Rong Dai''s heart. She stared at the Old Madam with tears in her eyes and asked sobbingly, "Really?"


    She thought she was lucky.


    Meeting the Huo family, Shao Ting''s gentleness, understanding, respect and spoiling of her, she thought she could have happiness.


    But she did not expect that just as she was treading on the clouds of bliss, the nightmare came so unexpectedly and caught her off guard!


    "Of course it''s true."


    The Old Madam looked at her kindly and nodded.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but her eyes turned slightly redder. She was really afraid.


    With the inferior medical skills in her previous life, the pain of losing that child and the moment before entering the operating roomst night, all her buried memories came flooding back.


    Even now, the memories were still fresh in her mind.


    She was afraid that because of the sins of her previous life, she would have to repay them in this life.


    "Don''t worry, you are still young. Rest well, keep your spirits up. Granny won''t rush you. Let''s just let nature take its course."


    Seeing that her emotions had eased a little, the Old Madam exhorted her again.


    Rong Dai obediently nodded. Perhaps it was because of the IV drip and from crying too hard, her face looked very tired.


    "If you��re sleepy then rest well. Lu Zheng is stewing soup for you at home. When you wake up, you can drink it nice and hot.��


    The Old Madam affectionately patted her head and tucked the quilt snugly around her.


    Rong Dai was indeed sleepy. Not daring to think about the child anymore, she closed her eyes obediently and went to sleep.


    Only after she had fallen asleep did the Old Madam leave the ward.

 Chapter 314: She Needs Herself

    <h4>Chapter 314</h4>


    "Grandmother, how is Sister-inw doing?"


    Huo Meishu anxiously asked when she saw the olddying out.


    She had been frightened by her sister-inw just now.


    The olddy sighed lightly and shook her head. "She fell asleep, but she must have been sad during this period."


    Huo Meishu''s eyes dimmed, and she worriedly nced at the ward.


    "Second Brother, you should take Grandmother back first."


    "I''ll stay here with Sister-inw. Big Brother is busy with work at thepany, and someone needs to apany Sister-inw here."


    Thinking of Rong Dai''s care and thoughtfulness towards her, and recalling the devastated and heartbroken look on her sister-inw''s face just now, Huo Meishu felt distressed.


    Huo Shaojie was indeed too busy with work, and staying here wouldn''t be of much help.


    "Alright, but be careful with your mouth. Don''t say anything inappropriate, or you''ll make Sister-inw cry again. You''ll have a hard time then."


    Huo Shaojie admonished her, and Huo Meishu rolled her eyes at him in anger.


    Soon after the olddy and Huo Shaojie left, Huo Shaoting arrived.


    This was a private hospital, and Rong Dai was staying in the best ward, with a suite next to it for the family members.


    "Big Brother, you should go and rest for a while."


    "I promise I won''t say anything inappropriate. I will take good care of Sister-inw."


    When Huo Shaoting arrived, although he had cleaned up and shaved, he looked a little more spirited than before.


    But the bloodshot eyes were still evident, and his face was gloomy, indicating that he was still not in a good state.


    "Sister-inw is already heartbroken. She''s so sensitive that if she wakes up and sees you like this, she will me herself even more and be even more sad."


    Huo Meishu was afraid that he would refuse, so she quickly added.


    However, Huo Shaoting''s gaze was fixed on Rong Dai, filled with tenderness and self-me.


    Although Rong Dai was asleep, her brows were still furrowed, and tears asionally rolled down from the corners of her eyes, even sobbing.


    She had always been strong and resilient.


    Whether it was about Zuo Ran, Yang Wanwan, or being kidnapped.


    Although she was scared, she had never been as fragile as she was now.


    Now, she was as fragile as a piece of delicate ss.


    Apart from feeling distressed, he was helpless.


    "No need, you go and attend to your own matters."


    Huo Shaoting refused.


    At this moment, she needed him the most. How could he not be by her side?


    If he couldn''t even apany her at such a time, what was the meaning of her marrying him?


    If he couldn''t even do this well, how could he talk about taking care of her for a lifetime?


    Huo Meishu knew he would say that, and seeing his gloomy expression, she knew that her words wouldn''t make a difference.


    "Well, then, I''ll go sit nearby. If you need anything, just call me, Big Brother."


    Huo Shaoting nodded, and only then did Huo Meishu leave the ward.


    The ward quieted down, and Huo Shaoting carefully approached the bed, leaning down to kiss Rong Dai''s forehead.


    Then he reced the soiled pad with a clean one and changed her dirty pants before holding her and falling asleep on the hospital bed together.


    Because this is a private hospital, all the equipment is top-notch, and even the beds arerge enough for the couple to sleepfortably.


    After Huo Shao Tingy down, Rong Dai instinctively nestled into his embrace.


    Despite her height of over 1.7 meters, she seemed so petite and fragile curled up in his arms.


    Huo Shao Ting held her as if soothing a little baby to sleep, gently patting her back.


    "Don''t be afraid, your husband is by your side..."


    Perhaps because of Huo Shao Ting''s presence, Rong Dai, who asionally sobbed in her sleep, gradually calmed down.

 Chapter 315: Hang yourself for a Stool

    <h4>Chapter 315</h4>


    After Lu Zheng cooked chicken soup at home and put it in a thermos, she took a taxi to the hospital.


    At the hospital entrance, she bumped into Huo Mei Shu.


    "Where is your elder brother?"


    Huo Mei Shu tucked her scarf and her eyes were dim: "This incident hit my elder brother pretty hard. Plus my sister-inw is also heartbroken, so he doesn''t allow anyone to apany him in the ward."


    Lu Zheng''s eyebrows twisted up immediately. Carrying the chicken soup, she went upstairs.


    Afraid that she would say something to hurt Rong Dai''s feelings, Huo Mei Shu followed her upstairs.


    When the mother and daughter entered the ward, they saw Huo Shao Ting hugging Rong Dai. The couple was sleeping very peacefully on a hospital bed.


    Lu Zheng sighed softly and put the freshly cooked chicken soup on the table. Then she and Huo Mei Shu exited.


    "Have you asked the doctor?"


    As soon as they came out, she asked Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu was scared by her loud voice. She looked at the ward door in horror and pulled Lu Zheng to the side.


    "Mom, keep your voice down! What if my elder brother hears..."


    Lu Zheng''s face was unpleasant as she pursed her lips tightly, staring at Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu had no choice. Her mother really wasn''t suitable to meddle in this kind of thing.


    "I asked. The doctor said my sister-inw''s embryonic sac in this pregnancy didn''t develop well. Plus my sister-inw was extremely tired from shooting earlier without properly recovering. She already showed signs of threatened miscarriage."


    "As long as my sister-inw recuperates well, she won''t have any issues getting pregnant again in the future."


    Huo Mei Shu knew what she was thinking.


    The olddy was most concerned about her elder brother''s family issues.


    Fortunately her sister-inw didn''t have any major health problems. Otherwise, with her mother''s personality, she might really make a scene.


    This time grandma asked her sister-inw to take over as the Huo family matriarch. That already displeased the olddy.


    If her sister-inw had any other health issues, the family would probably be in chaos.


    But with her elder brother''s personality, even if the olddy threatened suicide, he would probably just ask his bodyguards to bring her a stool.


    "Mom, can you please stop meddling with my elder brother''s affairs?"


    "Don''t you know what kind of person my elder brother is?"


    "I''ll be blunt. Even if my sister-inw can''t give birth, do you have the ability to make my elder brother divorce her?"


    "Before you can make that happen, my elder brother would have left with my sister-inw already. Then you''d just have to stare with your eyes wide open."


    "Let me warn you, it''s best if you don''t ask my sister-inw about this kind of issue."


    Huo Mei Shu was truly afraid her old mother would cause trouble.


    If any storms arose at this critical moment, her elder brother would go berserk. That would be truly catastrophic!


    "You''ve be more brazen after I stopped managing you for a few days. Now you''re managing your own mother?" Lu Zheng nced at her impatiently.


    "I''m not managing you. I''m doing this for your own good, to give you a reminder. If you enrage my elder brother, blood rtion or not, unless my dad climbs out of his grave..."


    "No one else''s words will he listen to in this family, except grandma''s words, and even those just 30% of the time. Do you think he will listen to you?"


    "If I were you, I wouldn''t look for trouble myself."


    Huo Mei Shu wasn''t afraid of her at all. She knew her mother''s temper all too well.


    "If you find yourself with nothing to do, go out and y Mahjong with yourdy friends, have some tea, go shopping. That''s nice too, isn''t it?"


    "My sister-inw is so young and talented. Aunt An also left her a considerable fortune."


    "When my sister-inw married into our family, it wasn''t her climbing the socialdder. She was willing to bear children for my elder brother at such a young age. She is more heartbroken about this miscarriage than anyone else."


    "My dear mother, let''s not interfere anymore, alright?"


    Huo Mei Shu tried to persuade her mother patiently. She was truly afraid the worst case scenario would happen.

 Chapter 316: Mother-in-law鈥檚 First Love

    <h4>Chapter 316</h4>


    Lu Zheng didn''t continue arguing with her, holding her bag and reminding her, "Alright, I''m going back now."


    "Pay attention and call me immediately if anything happens. Don''t be so carefree."


    Huo Mei Shu felt speechless in her heart. Who was the one being carefree?


    But she didn''t dare to say that, and quickly sent Lu Zheng downstairs with a well-behaved smile.


    Watching Lu Zheng get into the car and leave, Huo Mei Shu finally let out a sigh of relief.


    She touched her stomach and found a nearby restaurant to have a meal.


    Lu Zheng sat in the car feeling a bit gloomy.


    Although her mother-inw had never treated her harshly, she didn''t leave her any face in front of her children.


    First, it was about the housekeeper, and now even her words were criticized by her mother-inw.


    If it weren''t for her husband''s early passing, her life would have been smooth sailing.


    She was inherently a traditional woman.


    Since her husband''s death, her family had subtly hinted at her to find someone else.


    And the Huo family agreed as well.


    But when she thought of her deceased husband and their three children...


    She couldn''t let go, always thinking of waiting a little longer until the children grew up a bit more.


    But when is there ever a time when raising children is worry-free?


    She had wasted so much time, and she was already of a certain age.


    She had even less desire to remarry.


    She just wanted her children to get married and settle down, to have grandchildren as soon as possible. That would be enough for her.


    But even this small wish seemed impossible for her to fulfill.


    And... she had to endure the suppression from her mother-inw.


    She felt extremely aggrieved, so she instructed the taxi to turn towards the upscale bar where she often went with her sisters.


    As a regr customer and because this bar was not an ordinary one, more like an elegant and rxing ce, Lu Zheng''s private booth was quiet.


    With soothing music and the fragrance of alcohol in the air.


    Unconsciously, Lu Zheng had already downed two sses and was starting to feel a little dizzy.


    Under normal circumstances, she would never go out alone and drink so much.


    But today was different, her mood was at its lowest point.


    In this household, she was like an unnecessary person, someonepletely redundant.


    This feeling made her very ufortable.


    Incredibly ufortable.


    Her children didn''t stand up for her, and she had her mother-inw above her.


    In this household, no one helped her.


    She was alone too, she could feel sadness, frustration, and loneliness.


    But she didn''t dare to disturb her children''s lives.


    She thought that silently showing a little care, as long as they epted it, she would be satisfied.


    But today, her mother-inw''s words were like saying that Lu Zheng was an unreasonable, brainless shrew.


    Lu Zheng felt incredibly sad, with no ce to vent her frustration.


    "Zheng Zheng? Is it really you?"


    She was drinking alone in her own misery when suddenly a joyful male voice sounded from above her head.


    Lu Zheng looked up in confusion at the man in front of her. He appeared to be in his fifties, with a few gray hairs at his temples, but he was well-groomed and elegant.


    "Yes, it''s me, Zhong Jun! Yin Zhongjun, our high school ssmate. Do you remember?" Yin Zhongjun had a smile on his face, his eyes filled with undisguised joy.


    Lu Zheng looked at the man in front of her with a puzzled expression, and after a few seconds, she finally remembered!


    Suddenly, she realized, whether it was because of the alcohol or memories from her youth, her cheeks turned slightly red.


    "Long time no see."


    She said with a faint smile.


    She never expected that after so many years, they would still meet again.


    "Do you mind if I sit down?"


    Yin Zhongjun asked politely.


    Without hesitation, Lu Zheng nodded.


    Her children were unwilling to talk to her, but it was always possible to chat with an old ssmate, right?

 Chapter 317: Zheng Zheng, Give Me a Chance

    <h4>Chapter 317</h4>


    Lu Zheng looked at the man in front of her. Although she hadn''t remarried in recent years, the Huo family had faced crises.


    But her life of luxury had never ceased.


    asionally, she would worry about her children, but she nevercked materialforts.


    Despite being in her fifties, she looked like she was in her forties.


    Over the years, her methods of relieving stress and boredom involved either ying cards, going shopping with her sisters, or doing yoga and fitness exercises.


    Therefore, Lu Zheng had maintained excellent body management, and she still exuded charm.


    With the umtion of time, she had a unique charm that young girls couldn''tpare to.


    This was the beauty bestowed upon her by time.


    Yin Zhongjun''s eyes were also fixed on her, harboring an indescribable heat deep within.


    "How have you been all these years? Since we parted in high school, due to family reasons, I immigrated overseas."


    "Later, you changed your contact information, and I couldn''t reach you."


    "These years... Are you doing well? I only found out about your husband after I came back..."


    Yin Zhongjun looked at her with tenderness and concern, gently inquiring. It instantly struck a chord in Lu Zheng''s heart.


    She remembered all the grievances, especially since this man was the one she had secretly admired in high school.


    The youthful infatuation was the most unforgettable.


    And because she had been drinking, she hung her head, looked at her wine ss, shook her head, and tears silently fell into the ss.


    Yin Zhongjun immediately panicked, got up to hand her a tissue, and took the opportunity to sit beside her, extending his hand to gently embrace her shoulder and console her.


    "Don''t be afraid, I''m back, Zheng Zheng... You''ve suffered so much over the years."


    Yin Zhongjun sighed.


    Upon hearing this, Lu Zheng''s tears flowed even more freely.


    "Cry, it will be better after you cry."


    Yin Zhongjunforted her, seizing the chance to let her lean against his chest.


    Catching a whiff of Lu Zheng''s fragrance and seeing the beautiful woman in his embrace, apart from the faint signs of aging on her face, she hadn''t changed at all.


    The same... innocent and easy to deceive!


    From a hidden angle that Lu Zheng couldn''t see, Yin Zhongjun''s eyes shed a victorious smile.


    After crying enough, Lu Zheng, perhaps due to the effects of the alcohol, sobered up a bit.


    Realizing that she was crying so heartbrokenly in his arms, her cheeks flushed, and she thought about the difference between men and women, quickly attempting to push him away.


    "Zheng Zheng!"


    Yin Zhongjun, however, assertively held her in his embrace, his eyes earnestly fixed on her.


    "I regretted leaving you back then, and all these years... I never forgot about you."


    "I couldn''t bear it anymore. This time, our family''s project in China has developed, and I finally found an opportunity toe back."


    "I got a divorce, and now both of us are unmarried."


    "Love isn''t just for young people; we can have it too."


    "We missed out on so many years, Zheng Zheng, give me a chance to take care of you, okay?"


    "If I had known that you spent all these years in such loneliness and hardship, I would havee back sooner."


    "It''s my fault, I... I''m truly a bastard!"


    Yin Zhongjun spoke with an overwhelming affection, then proceeded to give himself a resounding p!


    "Zhongjun!"


    Lu Zheng''s heart raced as she heard it, and when she saw him pping himself, her heart ached, and she quickly reached out to grab his hand.


    This one grasp gave Yin Zhongjun an opportunity.


    As he held her tender and smooth hand, Yin Zhongjun''s heart trembled!


    But he knew that good things shouldn''t be rushed; he had to take it slowly.

 Chapter 318: I won鈥檛 Do Anything to You

    <h4>Chapter 318</h4>


    "You, don''t be like this."


    Lu Zheng struggled to get out of his hands, her face flushed as she said.


    Although Yin Zhongjun was anxious in his heart, he also knew that he could not scare her all at once.


    So he let go of Lu Zheng and sat back down across from her.


    Lu Zheng suddenly felt a sense of loneliness and loss next to the lost embrace. She looked up at the other party and opened her mouth, wanting to exin: "Zhongjun, I..."


    "Zheng Zheng, I understand."


    "You don''t need to exin anything."


    "I won''t force you. You can reject me, but don''t stop me from being good to you, okay?"


    "So many years have passed... I really can''t forget you."


    "At that time when we were at school, although we didn''t confess our feelings, I knew that I liked you and you liked me too."


    Yin Zhongjun interrupted her words in advance and behaved like a gentleman and thoughtfully.


    Lu Zheng''s cheeks were burning hot, and her heart was pounding wildly.


    Recalling those young years, her eyes became a little shy.


    "I know it will be very difficult for you to ept me right away, but for the rest of my life, I will only wait for you."


    Yin Zhongjun''s sweet words continued, sincere and affectionate.


    He was also the first man Lu Zheng had a crush on. Plus both of them were single, sweetness rose in her heart.


    It was as if someone finally understood her years of gloom and hardship.


    Yin Zhongjun''s glib tongue started by reminiscing with Lu Zheng about the past, and then went on to describe his years of longing for her.


    Lu Zheng was extremely moved. Without realizing it, the two of them had drunk two bottles of foreign wine.


    "I...I''m going to the restroom."


    Lu Zheng was very dizzy already, but she was in a very good mood, staggering to stand up.


    Yin Zhongjun hurriedly stood up in a caring manner to support her and asked the female waiter to take her to the bathroom.


    Looking at Lu Zheng''s staggering back, Yin Zhongjun took out his cell phone from the leather sofa and quickly sent the information he had got out of Lu Zheng to someone with the name "Sponsor" in his WeChat contacts.


    After a few seconds, the other party sent a transfer of 100k yuan, only asking him to continue inquiring.


    Yin Zhongjun was ted. After receiving the money, he deleted all the records.


    Then he snapped his fingers to get the waiter to bring a cup of warm water and also asked for some honey.


    He thoughtfully stirred some honey into the water for Lu Zheng. At the same time, a pill from his palm also fell into the cup and quickly dissolved.


    "Zheng Zheng."


    Seeing Lu Zhenging back, he stood up to help her right away.


    "Here, drink some honey water first. This can protect your stomach."


    "It''s all my fault, I shouldn''t have let you drink so much."


    Yin Zhongjun said thoughtfully and self-mingly, bringing the stirred honey water to her mouth.


    Lu Zheng''s face was burning hot and she drank a little fuzzy in the head. He was also her first love whom she hadn''t seen for years. Her heart had long lost track of directions.


    She nodded shyly and drank down the entire cup of honey water. Yin Zhongjun wiped her clean with tissue paper.


    "Should I take you back to the Huo Residence?"


    Yin Zhongjun asked her.


    "I don''t want to go back......go back and get scolded?"


    Lu Zheng shook her head with grievance all over her face.


    "Then... I''m staying at a hotel during my time back here for a stay. If you don''t mind, I''ll take you over there. It''s upstairs in this building."


    "Zheng Zheng, rest assured that without your permission, I won''t do anything to you."


    Yin Zhongjun pretended to be caring and gentlemanly.


    Lu Zheng looked at him with blurred eyes and smile, nodding her head, "I trust you..."

 Chapter 319: Hospital Exposure

    <h4>Chapter 319</h4>


    Just two hours after Lu Zheng was helped to the hotel by Yin Zhongjun, a marketing ount on Weibo suddenly exposed the news that Rong Dai had a miscarriage and lost the chance to watch the show.


    This news was like a bolt from the blue, setting the entire Weibo on fire!


    Because even the hospital Rong Dai was staying at and her room number were clearly stated.


    Some savvy entertainment journalists, upon seeing this news, regardless of whether it was true or false, rushed to the hospital at the first moment to stand guard.


    In this world, give the paparazzi a camera, give them a location, there is nothing they can��t take pictures of.


    What followed was an avnche of explosive news flying all over the sky!


    When some people had previously questioned whether there was an inside story about Rong Dai and her husband leaving the TK Grand Show, there were already rumors flying around online.


    The TK side had achieved great sess withst night��s grand show, but their cooperation with Huo''s Enterprise had fallen through.


    Ha Wei was questioned overnight by the headquartersst night and asked to resolve this matter immediately.


    Ha Wei was at his wits'' end when such news broke out on Weibo.


    For him, this was simply a lifeline!


    So at the first moment he did not call Zhang Assistant to verify it, but issued a message from the TK China official ount.


    The gist of the message was that after Rong Dai and her husband arrived at the show venue, Rong Dai felt unwell and had to leave early, which was clearly referring to the miscarriage.


    It then stated in extremely vague terms that Rong Dai wanted to withdraw her work only because their staff had made a mistake.


    And refused their cooperation this time, and Huo��s Enterprise had also breached the contract.


    Although it was said very vaguely, this message undoubtedly absolved them of all responsibility!


    Rong Dai was hospitalized at this time, coupled with the ck materials flying all over her previously.


    Now the news of her miscarriage was also exposed, and many people gloated and even celebrated under her Weibo, saying she got her retribution.


    All kinds of nasty words kepting.


    Subsequently, some self-media took out photos one after another, and some even obtained Rong Dai��s medical records by improper means.


    These evidence were all real.


    Even Lu Nianzhi and Zhang Assistant''s public rtions could not keep up.


    "Damn it! Who leaked it out?!"


    Zhang Assistant shook with anger!


    Not only because he was in awe of his boss''s prestige, but more because these unconscionable keyboard warriors attacked a mother who had just lost her child so viciously.


    Lu Nianzhi''s face was also very ugly.


    But neither of them lost their calm and took action immediately.


    Zhang Assistant''s anger was frightening. He paid thepany''s public rtions team and technical team triple wages overnight to investigate the source of the marketing ount.


    Unfortunately, the other party was very cunning and used a fake virtual IP address. It would take some time to find out.


    Then the legal team sentwyer letters overnight to those self-media, while the technical team vigorously dug out ck materials on those copycat self-media.


    At that moment, the entire Weibo was simply a battle between gods!


    One after another self-media��s ck materials were exposed!


    And it was unstoppable!


    Huo��s Enterprise��s favorite thing was sending these types ofwyer letters packaged very exquisitely.


    The self-media who received thewyer letters were all stunned as they watched their ownpanies being smeared into the bottom of a pot on Weibo that could not be washed clean even if they jumped into the Pacific Ocean!


    Then some keyboard warriors jumped out and angrily condemned Huo��s Enterprise for being a dictatorship!


    Zhang Assistant very arrogantly responded with Huo''s Enterprise''s official ount:


    If you are not convinced,e and beat me along thework cable!


    Are we only allowed to set fires but not allowed to put them out?


    Has our boss�� wife eaten your family��s rice or drank your family��s oil?


    Our wife lost her beloved child because she nearly drowned while filming.


    You people with wicked mouths, Huo��s Enterprise will find out one by one those keyboard warriors involved in vicious verbal attacks.


    Huo��s Enterprise will let you know what it means to implicate three generations.


    As for all participants, Huo''s Enterprise technical team will check out your ancestry back eighteen generations. In the future, for three generations, none of the descendants of these people will be employed by any of Huo��s Enterprise��s subsidiaries!


    In addition, it''s toote to delete now. The list will be out soon. Have a nice life! Keepughing so happily in the future!


    This message was written extremely arrogantly.


    The ��three generations�� was even bold and highlighted.

 Chapter 320: Don鈥檛 Be such a Mean Mother

    <h4>Chapter 320</h4>


    Some keyboard warriors were afraid, but still bravely endured and mocked that Huo''s Enterprise would notst three generations.


    However, soon Huo''s Enterprise''s official ount published a long list of real names and usernames.


    Everything was clear and explicit.


    There was an additional note under the list: Information on all rted personnel has been approved for release by the police station.


    Damn!


    When seeing their own names on the list, many keyboard warriors couldn''t help but want to curse!


    But upon seeing this line, they deted.


    The atmosphere on Weibo changed direction in less than five minutes. Those with their names on the list apologized one after another, wanting to delete their Weibo posts.


    But...regrettably, they could not delete them.


    Nor could they deactivate their ounts.


    Keyboard warriors: "..."


    Inparison, these keyboard warriors were not the most miserable ones.


    Those unscrupulous media outlets that jumped on the bandwagon received not onlywyer letters from Huo''s Enterprise, but also thorough investigations from relevant authorities that very night due to the exposed ck materials.


    There is an old saying: Those who often walk by the river will inevitably get their shoes wet.


    They certainly could not feel the warmth of spring or the mildness of spring days.


    All they had was the cold night.


    "The TK side will probably need to consult Mr. Huo, after all TK was very sessful this time and attracted considerable attention domestically."


    "If this is not handled properly, I''m worried it will affect Yong Dai''s future work."


    After dealing with these matters, it was already 5 o''clock in the morning.


    Lu Nianzhi leaned back in her chair, exhausted. She closed her eyes, pinched the bridge of her nose, and spoke heavily.


    "I will report this incident to the President. It''s been a long night. You go back and rest first."


    Zhang the assistant nodded.


    Lu Nianzhi did not say more. She got up, picked up her bag, and went downstairs.


    When she had just gotten to the basement garage, a car started honking. Then Xu Chuan came over holding an insted box with a powdered and embellished little boy following him, looking like a girl.


    The little boy''s eyes were pitch-ck, like tworge gemstones, filled with curious gazes at her.


    Seeing it was Xu Chuan, Lu Nianzhi''s expression changed.


    Her gaze was cold. She turned and got into her car to leave.


    This bastard is simply sick!


    How did he get into Huo''s Enterprise building?


    "Nian Nian! Hear me out!"


    Just as Lu Nianzhi was about to start her car, Xu Chuan blocked her by putting a hand on the hood.


    Lu Nianzhi really wanted to lose her temper.


    But there was a kid present. No matter how much she hated Xu Chuan, she could not vent her resentment onto the child.


    If not for the kid being there, she would have stepped on the elerator and ran Xu Chuan over!


    When will this bastard stop?


    She rolled down her window with a frosty face, ring sinisterly at Xu Chuan.


    In order not to scare the child, she suppressed her voice to speak.


    "Xu Chuan, it looks like you really want to go to the police station!"


    "I told you already. There is no possibility between us! If you want to be a slut, I have a reputation to uphold. Get the hell away from me the farther the better!"


    Lu Nianzhi clutched the steering wheel tightly until her knuckles turned white, looking extremely fierce.


    "Dad...Is she...Is she really my mommy? She''s so scary...Huan Huan doesn''t want such a fierce mommy."


    Seeing Lu Nianzhi''s ghastly appearance, Xu Huan''s soft little face paled. He pleaded with Xu Chuan tearfully.


    Lu Nianzhi was stunned for a moment, unable toprehend this.


    But!


    What was this little brat saying?!


    She''s his mother?!


    Disgusting!


    She had really underestimated this Xu Chuan!


    To actually be so shameless to this degree!


    "Fucking bastard!"


    Lu Nianzhi could not help but curse out loud.


    Dealing with work all night without sleep put her in an extremely bad mood.


    She swiftly alighted and it seemed that if she did not retaliate, this bastard would persist in pestering her to the end!

 Chapter 321: I Explain Your Father

    <h4>Chapter 321</h4>


    "Xu Chuan, I originally wanted to leave you with some dignity as a father, but you brought this upon yourself."


    Lu Nianzhi''s imposing figure stared coldly at Xu Chuan and uttered these words before shifting her gaze to Little Xu Heng.


    "Kid, listen carefully to me."


    "I''m not your mother, and I don''t have a son as big as you. Your dad just wanted to take advantage of me."


    "If my calctions are correct, your mother''s name is Ling Yan."


    "Your shameless father may have no self-respect, but I still have mine. He pursued a rtionship with me, then turned around and slept with your mother, which led to your existence. I don''t know how your mother disappeared or why she isn''t with you."


    "But I am not your mother, and you better remember that!"


    Lu Nianzhi vented in one breath.


    Although she knew it was too much, especially to treat an innocent child this way.


    But if anyone was to me, it was his promiscuous and incorrigible biological father.


    She had let it go and made sacrifices for his sake.


    Why did he stille bothering her?


    He wasn''t bothered by his own filth, but she was disgusted by him!


    "Xu Chuan."


    She withdrew her gaze and focused on Xu Chuan, pushing him away with her hand. "Stay away from my car."


    "Are you really so incorrigible? I, Lu Nianzhi, used to be lowly and blind, and I fell for someone as refined as you!"


    "I have already made sacrifices for you. Now that Ling Yan, that wretched woman, ignores you, do you expect me to take over?"


    "Your damn wishful thinking is way too good!"


    Lu Nianzhi''s words were venomous, and the mockery and disgust on her face were undisguised.


    "I don''t want to get my hands dirty. I really find it repulsive. Could you please go as far away from me as possible?"


    She finished speaking and turned to get into her car.


    "Nian Nian, please listen to my exnation..."


    Smack!


    "To hell with your exnation! #@#@��&*......"


    Lu Nianzhi was furious the moment Xu Chuan grabbed her, and she exploded!


    She pped Xu Chuan hard in the face with her backhand!


    Would this despicable man ever stop?


    Tired of ying with the goddess, he came to her for a recement?


    Was he even a man?


    Could he even be considered a decent human being?


    At most, he was just despicable!


    Xu Chuan''s face immediately swelled up, turning red, and his lip was cut, blood trickling out.


    "Waaah... You''re not allowed to hit my daddy! You''re a bad woman!"


    Little Xu Heng was frightened and started crying, trying to push Lu Nianzhi away.


    Lu Nianzhi found it amusing and lowered her gaze to Little Xu Heng.


    She sneered while gently shaking her tingling hand.


    "I''m a bad woman? If I were a bad woman, you wouldn''t even have the chance to stand here today, do you understand?"


    "Compared to being bad, your father and mother are a natural match, both making me sick!"


    "Now get lost!"


    Lu Nianzhi felt a mixture of pain and anger deep in her heart. It was like being crushed by two conflicting emotions! She shouted at the father and son!


    "Xu Chuan, don''t make me despise you even more."


    "If you don''t want to ruin the image you have in your child''s heart, it''s best for you to disappear in front of me. Otherwise, I don''t know what I''m capable of doing, even I don''t know."


    She looked at Xu Chuan''s face, feeling a sense of vindictive pleasure.


    But her heart was filled with more pain, like a windstorm tearing at her!


    What happened to his promised exnation?


    Indeed, some people never change their ways.


    Little Xu Heng cried bitterly, and Xu Chuan did not stop her. Lu Nianzhi elerated past them with a heavy foot on the gas pedal.


    Her car gradually left the underground parking lot, and she watched the father and son through the rearview mirror.


    An inexplicable emotion crept into Lu Nianzhi''s heart. Why did she feel like she was the one abandoning her spouse and child?


    "Heng Heng..."


    After Lu Nianzhi''s car disappeared without a trace, Xu Chuan squatted down in front of Little Xu Heng and wiped away her tears.


    "Daddy, Heng Heng doesn''t want mommy anymore. Heng Heng doesn''t want her... Heng Heng only wants daddy."


    Little Xu Heng cried with great sadness, her soft face turning red as she sobbed uncontrobly.

 Chapter 322: Daddy鈥檚 Girl

    <h4>Chapter 322</h4>


    Xu Chuan looked at his son in front of him, feeling a deep sense of heartache.


    Butpared to the harm he had caused Lu Nianzhi, it was even more heartbreaking.


    Nian Nian still held grudges about the incident, unable to let go.


    Not only Nian Nian, even he himself couldn''t let go.


    But with his son here, that incident was something he couldn''t erase.


    "Heng Heng, remember thedy we saw earlier."


    "Her name is Lu Nianzhi, the girl Dad loved."


    "It''s Dad''s fault that she got so angry."


    "It''s because of Dad that she treated Heng Heng so harshly."


    "Heng Heng, promise Dad that you won''t say that Aunt Lu is a bad woman anymore, okay? Otherwise, Dad will be upset."


    Xu Chuanforted his son in a soft and gentle voice.


    He was only concerned about Nian Nian''s busy work, which was why he brought freshly made hot porridge early in the morning, hoping to warm her stomach a bit.


    But she was still so angry...


    Angry or not, at least it proved that she hadn''tpletely forgotten about him.


    Anger was better than being forgotten.


    Little Xu Heng listened with a confused expression but nodded obediently.


    "Then... then Aunt Lu said she''s not my mom, so who is Heng Heng''s mom? Can Dad tell Heng Heng?"


    Hearing his son''s question, Xu Chuan fell silent.


    Ling Yan.


    The woman who nearly destroyed everything for him.


    If it weren''t for their son, he wouldn''t have any connection with her.


    "If Heng Heng really wants to see her, Dad will make arrangements."


    "But there''s one thing, Dad needs to make it clear to Heng Heng first."


    "Dad and Mom won''t be together."


    He told little Xu Heng with great seriousness and solemnity.


    "Why... why not? Other kids in kindergarten have both Mom and Dad, but Heng Heng only has Dad..."


    Little Xu Heng''s face immediately turned pale, looking at him with confusion and bewilderment.


    Xu Chuan let out a sigh, picked up little Xu Heng, and sat back in the car.


    "Because Mom ruined the rtionship between Dad and Aunt Lu, causing Aunt Lu to leave Dad."


    "It''s not Heng Heng''s fault, nor Aunt Lu''s fault. It''s Dad and Mom''s fault."


    "But Dad still loves Heng Heng very much."


    He gently touched little Xu Heng''s head and spoke with a heavy and helpless tone.


    Some people, once you miss them...


    Even a nce bes a luxury.


    Even saying a word bes a fantasy.


    Little Xu Heng continued to look at him with teary eyes, nodding as if understanding and not understanding.


    Lu Nianzhi had been busy all night and was very tired.


    But early in the morning, Xu Chuan, that bastard, had triggered her so much that her blood pressure soared and smoke seemed toe out of her every organ!


    After returning home, she cleaned up and had breakfast, but she still couldn''t calm down.


    Then she opened Weibo and caught every person who cursed Rong Dai, not knowing their own mortality!


    For the past five years, she had forced herself to remain calm andposed in the face of any situation.


    But as soon as Xu Chuan appeared, she exploded like a lit firecracker!


    Lu Nianzhi despised this feeling of losing control and anger!


    After dealing with theizens, she continued browsing Weibo.


    Suddenly, she came across an official announcement from the Splendid Pavilion that immediately changed her expression!


    The TK side had prematurely revealed the coborator for the Huaxia region, and it turned out to be the Splendid Pavilion.


    This oue was unexpected yet expected at the same time.


    If it weren''t for the current situation, this opportunity would have fallen into the hands of their Mn Fragrance Studio.


    However, the news of Rong Dai being hospitalized broke out only on Weibo, and TK decided to coborate with the Splendid Pavilion.


    This made her doubt and anger unavoidable.

 Chapter 323: She鈥檚 Got a Lot to Do.

    <h4>Chapter 323</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi couldn''t sleep at home and had nothing to do. After thinking about it, she still got up and went to the hospital to visit Rong Dai.


    She knew that although it was a bit embarrassing for Rong Dai at this time.


    However, if Rong Dai and President Huo kept dwelling on this matter, then all their previous efforts would be in vain.


    Especially after what happenedst night, the TK side issued such an ambiguous exnation.


    That made Rong Dai unreasonable.


    Although Zhang Changdong''s handling was thunderous enough, and no one on Weibo dared to guide public opinion anymore.


    But this was rted to Rong Dai''s reputation. If an exnation was not made as soon as possible, it was unknown what kind of troubles would be buried in the future.


    "Sister Nianzhi..."


    Huo Mei Shu, who was sitting in the corridor, immediately opened her eyes that were half-closed while dozing off when she saw hering over and called out to her.


    "How is your eldest sister-inw?"


    Lu Nianzhi took a look at the ward and asked her.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at the door of the ward and shook her head.


    "She hasn''te out all night."


    Then she suddenly grabbed Lu Nianzhi''s arm and asked in a low voice: "Sister Nianzhi, I saw the news on Weibo. Did you and Special Assistant Zhang do public rtions for this matter?"


    "I was afraid that my big brother would be furious, and those people would be even more unlucky. I didn''t dare knock on the doorst night."


    "I held it in all night, just afraid that my big brother would go berserk."


    Lu Nianzhi sighed lightly: "The public rtions have been done, but there are other problems. President Huo has toe forward to deal with it."


    Huo Mei Shu''s face changed immediately: "Who the hell leaked this?! Isn''t this trying to anger my eldest sister-inw to death? What good would it do him to anger my eldest sister-inw to death?"


    "Alright, don''t get angry either. I''ll knock on the door, you go get some sleep."


    "Your brother is not an unreasonable person. Don''t worry too much."


    Lu Nianzhiforted her, then got up to knock on the door of the ward when the door opened.


    Huo Shao Ting had slept for a night and was much more spirited.


    But the moment he opened the door, his face became extremely cold!


    Lu Nianzhi suddenly felt a chill rushing toward her face and couldn��t help but take two steps back: "President Huo."


    "I already know what happened. You guys handled it very wellst night."


    Huo Shao Ting said indifferently, his gaze shifted to Huo Mei Shu: "Go in and keep your eldest sister-inwpany to eat something."


    "Eldest sister-inw is willing to see me?"


    Huo Mei Shu was overjoyed, but when she met Huo Shao Ting''s chilly gaze, she realized she had said the wrong thing. She immediately covered her mouth, obediently and cleverly entered the ward.


    In the ward, Rong Dai was already awake, sitting up in bed, with her head tilted looking at the sunlight outside.


    "Eldest sister-inw."


    Huo Mei Shu called out to her weakly, then took out the chicken soup and hot porridge that Mrs. Wang had brought this morning and had been kept warm in a thermos, and carefully served Rong Dai a bowl.


    Rong Dai looked back at her. In just two days, her face full of cogen had be much thinner.


    "Thank you."


    She said lightly, and took a small sip of the chicken soup.


    Seeing her like this, Huo Mei Shu felt distressed for her from the bottom of her heart.


    "Eldest sister-inw... I, I''m not good with words and don''t know how tofort you."


    "But you can''t neglect your health, otherwise your baby in heaven will see you and definitely be unhappy too."


    "I believe this time it was only because the baby felt you were too tired and was afraid to burden you, so she left."


    "Next time, the baby will definitely stay with you."


    Rong Dai smiled slightly and nodded, but her smile was somewhat forced.


    "I will, don''t worry."


    She still had so much to do. Although she was heartbroken and in pain, she could not let the whole family be heartbroken with her, nor could she let Shao Ting keep suffering with her.


    It was she who did not have blessing with this child. Next time, she would be more careful and detect the baby''s arrival earlier, so the baby would not leave her.


    Although she had been suffering these two days, she could feel the care and concern from the people around her.


    Especially Shao Ting, this was also his child. His pain and grief were no less than hers.

 Chapter 324: I Won鈥檛 Be Angry

    <h4>Chapter 324</h4>


    Seeing Rong Dai''s serious answer, Huo Mei Shu felt slightly relieved.


    After drinking two full bowls of therge bowl of chicken soup, some color finally returned to Rong Dai''s pale face.


    "Sister-inw, drink some warm water to rinse your mouth."


    Huo Mei Shu brought her hot water and a spittoon.


    Rong Dai shook her head and threw back the quilt, wanting to get out of bed.


    "Sister-inw, you haven''t recovered yet!"


    Her actions really frightened Huo Mei Shu. She went up to try to support her.


    "Mei Shu, I''m not that frail yet."


    "After lying in bed for two days, even the best person would get sick from it."


    Rong Dai raised her hand to indicate she didn''t need support. She got up and walked to the window, overlooking the beautiful Shenjing.


    In her previous life, when she lost her child, besides her own grief, the emperor didn''t shed half a tear.


    Now by her side there was Shao Ting apanying her, sharing it with her.


    What reason did she have to continue grieving?


    Because of her past life experiences, she was very clear that grief could not solve any problems, it would only sap her will.


    "Mei Shu, tell me if there''s been any news online these past few days?"


    Rong Dai''s gaze remained fixed on the scenery outside the window, her expression very calm, and her voice no longer as gentle as before.


    Although she had not gone online, such a big thing had happened.


    TK''s fashion show was in the spotlight again, and many rumors must have emerged online since she and Shao Ting left the show without watching it that night.


    She was sure many eyes were watching her.


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression froze slightly. Recalling the vicious words on Weibo, she felt a chill down her spine!


    If the sister-inw saw this, wouldn''t it make her sick with anger?


    Getting no response from her, Rong Dai sighed softly and turned on the TV with the remote control.


    Because ofst night''s drama, half of the trending topics on Weibo were rted to Rong Dai.


    The news program happened to feature the host analyzing statements made by TK the night before.


    Seeing TK''s statement, Rong Dai''s eyes became sharp!


    This world was different from the era she lived in in her previous life.


    Here, equality was not absolute among all people, but it was still much better than her previous world.


    Also, because of Huo Shao Ting''s pampering and warmth, she was willing to put aside the cold-bloodedness and darkness from her past life, and embrace the sunshine with her gentle side.


    TK''s blunder was originally their own fault to begin with.


    Now, taking advantage of her hospitalization and she and Shao Ting being plunged into grief, they seized the opportunity to kick them when they were down, pinning all the me onto them and the Huo family business!


    "S-Sister-inw, don''t get angry. Big brother will definitely handle this properly!"


    Huo Mei Shu cowered to the side. Seeing Rong Dai''s sudden change of expression, she felt a chill down her spine!


    Rong Dai''s eyes were piercing, her words calm: "I won''t get angry."


    What good would getting angry do?


    Would getting angry change TK''s statement?


    Would getting angry make those keyboard warriors kneel and apologize?


    Those who spew vicious words never feel that their words can hurt people, just like a bear eating meat, it doesn''t think it did anything wrong.


    Just then, Huo Shao Ting pushed the door open and walked in. Huo Mei Shu instantly felt greatly relieved, as if seeing a savior!


    She had never seen such a cold side of the sister-inw before. She was even less restrained than her big brother!


    "Big brother, I-I couldn''t stop the sister-inw."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her and instructed: "It��s fine, you go rest. Have Auntie Wang make more soup for your sister-inw, and bird��s nest too, your sister-inw likes to eat that."


    Huo Mei Shu hurriedly nodded and fled the ward as if being chased!

 Chapter 325: You Are All That Matters

    <h4>Chapter 325</h4>


    "It seems that the thing we least wanted to happen has urred."


    Resting against Huo Shao Ting''s chest, Rong Dai spoke softly.


    Her voice was calm, but filled with heaviness.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart ached; he knew she was only hiding her own pain.


    "Wife, you still have me by your side."


    "Don''t suppress yourself, it hurts me to see you like this."


    He held her tightly, leaning down to kiss her forehead.


    Rong Dai shook her head, her hands also embracing his waist as she looked up at him.


    "No, I''m not suppressing myself."


    "Losing our child has indeed caused me great pain."


    "But I know that if I continue to suffer, our entire family will suffer with me."


    "And that includes you."


    As she spoke, she reached out to touch his face with her hand.


    In just two short days, he had be so haggard.


    He felt pain for himself, and she felt pain for him too.


    "It''s just that we were not destined to have this child. I don''t want us to remain immersed in pain and unable to move on."


    The lessons from our past lives were too tragic!


    It was precisely because of the time when she lost the imperial child that the Imperial Consort had the opportunity to rise and the Emperor had the chance to deal with the Rong Family.


    Though there was no emperor now, there were still those around them with ill intentions, watching them like a tiger.


    These people couldn''t bear to see them happy, couldn''t bear to see Rong Dai''s happiness.


    But she insisted on being happy!


    "Do you remember what I once told you? In my past life, I also lost a child."


    "It was because I indulged in pain and couldn''t extricate myself that it brought disaster to my family."


    "If only I had awakened in time, things wouldn''t have ended so tragically."


    She spoke with a heavy tone.


    "Shao Ting, I am so fortunate to have met you."


    "This time, I just want to protect you well, protect our happiness, and protect our prosperity."


    "There may not be an emperor here, but there are still many ambitious people lurking."


    "I can''t do things that cause pain to loved ones and joy to enemies."


    She looked at him with an extremely serious and determined gaze.


    "Perhaps you might think I am cold-blooded, but sometimes, being kind doesn''t necessarily lead to good results."


    She paused for a moment and exined cautiously.


    Having lost a child, she was undoubtedly in immense pain, but could she go to her death with the child?


    Since it was an unchangeable situation, she could only ept it.


    As Huo Shao Ting listened to her words, he didn''t find her cold-blooded; instead, he felt even more heartache for her.


    She had experienced too much, embraced too much coldness and darkness, which was why she craved warmth so much.


    She treated this world with kindness, yet there were always those who wanted to destroy her, and he would never agree to that!


    "Meeting you, having you, is also my fortune."


    He lowered his head and gently kissed her lips, his voice soft and tender as he said,


    "Rong Dai, we will have children."


    "No rush, let nature take its course."


    "Having a child would only be the icing on the cake for me."


    "Compared to you, a child is not the most important thing to me."


    "In my eyes, you are the most important, always in the first ce."


    Huo Shao Ting was relieved to see that she was able to move on from her sorrow so quickly, but he also felt even more heartbroken by her strength.


    Rong Dai responded softly.


    The couple embraced each other, seeking warmth andfort, sharing the burden of pain in their hearts.


    "As for TK, what do you think we should do?"


    Rong Dai changed the subject and brought up TK.


    Huo Shao Ting, concerned that she might be ufortable standing for too long, gently carried her back to the bed, where he sat by her side, holding her hand and asking in return, "What do you want to do?"

 Chapter 326: The Earth is Falling on Me by Your Side

    <h4>Chapter 326</h4>


    Rong Dai leaned against the bed, looking at him with dark eyes.


    Thinking of TK''s words, her heart turned cold.


    They had originally wanted to downy this matter so both sides'' reputations would not be ruined.


    But what was TK''s exnation now?


    It was clearly saying they were untrustworthy and petty people who bullied others with power.


    It was just short of saying Huo''s Enterprise was arbitrary and tyrannical!


    And then they turned around and partnered with Brocade Embroidery Workshop!


    What about the previouspetition then?


    Were they just toying with everyone? Using them as green leaves toplement Brocade Embroidery?


    Thinking her work was ssified under Brocade Embroidery, she had full reason to suspect any conspiracy!


    There were so many works of simr style, yet no one else''s was misced.


    Only hers was, and it was grouped with Brocade Embroidery''s.


    Added with TK''s exnation, she had ample reason to suspect they conspired with Brocade Embroidery!


    After all, if she had not submitted the essory back then, when the incident happened,


    she could only choose to let it go.


    And TK wouldpensate her, without losing Huo''s Enterprise as a "gold daddy."


    They could still coborate with the domestic industry giant Brocade Embroidery, getting the best of both worlds.


    She already had ns in mind, but did not say it outright, only looking at Huo Shao Ting seriously and solemnly.


    "Shao Ting, only you know of my background here."


    "The lessons from my past life were too cruel."


    "So although I don''t want to invite troubles or make too many enemies,"


    "if anyone touches my bottom line, I won''t give them a chance to recover."


    She said very seriously.


    If the roots remain, new shoots will grow in the spring breeze.


    What happened with Yang Wan Wan was the best example.


    If she had been ruthless enough from the start, so many things would not have happenedter.


    She also would not have almost drowned and injured herself.


    Then her child would not have developed poorly and she would not have lost it.


    Every cause has its effect.


    Every decision made will impact unknown future events.


    Such mistakes, she had painfully experienced them in her past life, and lost her child again this time.


    The lessons were profound enough.


    She would rather be a difficult, unapproachable viin,


    than a good person everyone thought they could take advantage of at will.


    Her kindness was only for those close who cared for her.


    Being toopromising would only make those close to her suffer with her.


    "I understand, you don''t need to exin so much."


    "I love you, so I will understand everything about you."


    Huo Shao Ting felt pained for her. He understood her worries well.


    She was worried he would misunderstand and think her a vicious woman.


    "I''ve said that with me by your side, even if I can''t aplish what your husband currently can''t, in the future I will stake my life to make it happen."


    "Within my capabilities, and within what is allowed byw, you just do whatever you want."


    "With me here, even if the sky falls or the earth splits, I will be by your side to shield you."


    He pulled her into his embrace, speaking pained yet firm words of assurance.


    As he spoke, he kissed her cheek.


    "As long as you''re happy and feelfortable and safe, you can do whatever you want."


    Hearing his sincere words, Rong Dai felt warmth and guilt.


    She had not protected their little angel well this time, but next time, she would guard it properly.

 Chapter 327: Her Share of Responsibility

    <h4>Chapter 327</h4>


    "Although TK has always upied the Western international market and has always been mainly Western-style," Rong Dai exined earnestly while hugging his neck.


    "In addition, China is inclusive, so many Western international brands have been able toe to China to make money, and they have all made a fortune."


    "But looking back at history, during the Tang Dynasty, tributary missions from all countries came to China. Even Western countries had to worship in front of China."


    "Whether it''s silk, papermaking technology and so on, China opened up and pioneered them."


    "Rouge, lipstick, face powder and so on, China has never been inferior in these aspects."


    "It''s just that the baptism of war has transformed China, but it has also lost many things."


    If at the beginning she wanted to do what she liked just to make money, just to prove that she was good enough to stand by this man''s side.


    Then now, she had a new goal.


    "But in all honesty, China is inclusive of these things, we enthusiastically ept these exotic new things."


    "But some people are making money off of us, relying on us to make a living, yet doing despicable things behind our backs."


    "Although our people are disheartened, we have lost too much that can''t be made up for in a short time."


    "But Shao Ting, I haven''t lost these things, I have them all here."


    She smiled lightly and pointed at her head.


    Great China, with 5,000 years of history, has prosperity, hardship.


    She witnessed China''s prosperity and glory when missions from all countries came, and now she has also witnessed China''s rise and power.


    The moment she figured this out, she suddenly felt that this was perhaps the meaning behind heaven letting her live again.


    "But you''ll get very tired, and I feel bad that you have to work so hard," Huo Shao Ting said intelligently. With just this bit of analysis from her, he already understood what she meant.


    Rong Dai shook her head. As long as someone has a firm belief and direction in their heart, hardships along the way are just decorations, negligible.


    "I don''t feel tired doing what I like," she said.


    "Because you are by my side, I dare to try."


    She hugged his neck, looked into his eyes, and exined in an exceptionally gentle yet serious voice.


    If Huo Shao Ting was not by Rong Dai''s side, such bold and passionate ideas might never have left her heart.


    "Now I feel like I have more responsibilities ced on my shoulders, responsibilities arranged for me by heaven."


    "This is the condition of my deal with heaven. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have met someone as great as you."


    She held him, her bright eyes staring intensely at him.


    Although there was no way to prove her idea, and heaven would not truly answer her.


    But she felt that this was a deal between her and heaven.


    This was her responsibility.


    "I''ll apany you no matter what you want to do."


    "But you must always take good care of your health. I don''t believe in heaven, I only believe in you," Huo Shao Ting said gently, knowing that he couldn''t dissuade her.


    As long as she could recover, even if she wanted him to "destroy" TK, he would do it unhesitatingly.


    Rong Dai nodded. Now that she understood things, her heart felt much more at ease.


    At the same time, she was also surer of her own path.


    "Thank you," she said softly. She held his face in her hands, looking at him with distress and gratitude, and lightly kissed his thin lips.


    "There must be things to deal with at thepany. I will take good care of my health. Nian Zhi can brief me on other matters," she said.


    "There''s no rush to deal with TK right now. We''ll talk after their big show. The higher they fly, the harder they''ll fall," she said slyly and viciously.


    Since TK was so shameless, why should she bother saving face for them?


    Seeing her like this, Huo Shao Ting felt helpless and distressed. He raised his hand and rubbed her head, only able to watch her indulgently with a smile.


    What could he do about his own woman?


    Other than doting on her, what else could he do?

 Chapter 328: Time does not Stand Still because of Regret

    <h4>Chapter 328</h4>


    The couple lost their most precious child, but they understood each other''s pain and difficulties.


    This time Rong Dai''s miscarriage did not cause any estrangement between the couple, on the contrary, it brought them even closer together.


    Perhaps some people are destined to hold hands for life when they are together, no matter whether it is pain or hardship, happiness or prosperity. They are destined to go through it hand in hand.


    Because you are by my side, I can be brave to face it.


    Although Zhang Assistant had been reporting to Huo Shao Ting about thepany''s affairs these past two days and handled all the urgent matters, work was still piling up.


    "Go take care of things, I''m fine here."


    Seeing his reluctance, Rong Dai helplessly gave him a light kiss on the cheek and pushed him to leave the hospital bed.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, leaned over and kissed her back, "Okay, if you want to eat anything, the hospital can deliver meals here, all very fresh ingredients."


    "I''lle back tonight to have dinner with you, rest well."


    Rong Dai nodded, watching him leave the ward, her gaze fell back on the TV.


    Not long after he left, Lu Nianzhi pushed the door in.


    "Sister Nianzhi, please sit down," Rong Dai heard the sound, turned off the TV, and looked over saying.


    Lu Nianzhi sat down, her gaze roamed back and forth over Rong Dai, assessing her.


    "Sister Nianzhi, I''m not that fragile," Rong Dai exined with some helplessness seeing that look in Lu Nianzhi''s eyes.


    "I am in pain, but I don''t need to show my pain every minute and every second on my face."


    "Losing this child made me understand a lot of things."


    Seeing the look in Lu Nianzhi''s eyes, Rong Dai exined with some exasperation.


    "As long as you''re alright, I was just worried that you would be too sad and forget that there are still so many people around you who care about you." Lu Nianzhi nodded, also marveling to herself at Rong Dai''s speed of recovery.


    Even for an ordinary person, it would be impossible to recover this much in just two days after such an incident.


    But only Rong Dai herself knew clearly.


    If she was willing to face and ept what happened, it was not because she was cold-blooded enough.


    But because she clearly understood that wallowing in such grief in her previous life would bring her great cmity.


    Grief can be deeply buried, but reason cannot.


    Because time will not stop for someone''s grief or regret, time keeps flowing.


    The more she grieves and regrets, the more it will make those who want to destroy them gloat with schadenfreude.


    "I won''t," Rong Dai shook her head with a faint smile.


    Seeing her resilience, Lu Nianzhi finally feltpletely at ease.


    Of course, she should have known at the Film and Television City that Rong Dai was not someone who could be easily knocked down.


    "I''ll have to trouble you to give me a detailed analysis of the news from thest two days, focusing on TK and Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    She looked at Lu Nianzhi, having regained herposure.


    TK took advantage of her grief to rely on Brocade Embroidery Workshop��s reputation and the tolerance of the public to try to step on her head to climb higher.


    That was impossible!


    If TK''s exnation had not been so offensive, she might not have minded too much or wanted to retaliate.


    But TK''s exnation, although vague, was too offensive!


    It was as if it was normal for her to ept their own work mistakes, but refusing to cooperate was taking advantage of power to bully others!


    What kind of logic is this?


    Although she didn''t know who was guiding public opinion online, TK dared to make such statements, so they would have to pay the price for their actions.


    Hearing Rong Dai bring this up, Lu Nianzhi felt quite angry.


    "I thought after reaching such heights today, TK would handle matters more cautiously and tactfully."


    "But I didn''t expect them to dare say such things, dumping all the dirty water on you and Mr. Huo."


    "Taking advantage of the previous hot searches about you to attract eyeballs, subtly expressing their meaning, it''s simply disgusting!"

 Chapter 329: Things to be Expected

    <h4>Chapter 329</h4>


    Rong Dai patiently listened to her venting out all her frustration. After Lu Nianzhi stopped to catch her breath, Rong Daiughed and said, "This is within expectations."


    "Think about it. Because of this incident, not only was TK unable to coborate with Huo''s Enterprise..."


    "Huo''s Enterprise also invested to get them to postpone for ten days. So TK themselves have lost quite a bit too."


    "Ha Wei seems passionate and shrewd, but this has after all damaged their fundamental interests."


    "Naturally they can''t swallow this anger, so it''s understandable that they would say something like this."


    TK''s statement this time was beyond Rong Dai''s expectations, but after careful thought, this was also within expectations.


    After all, with a ten day postponement, all the publicity TK did previously would be wasted, plus the models all have their own schedules.


    Postponing ten days would inevitably lead to some losses.


    These losses could have been offset by coborating with Huo''s Enterprise, but because of what happened, Huo''s Enterprise chose not to continue working with TK.


    Huo Shao Ting naturally won''t coborate with them either, so their losses werepletely wasted.


    It''s not a small sum.


    Although TK did not exin overtly, their choice of words was obscure. Everyone could understand the implication.


    Lu Nianzhi had this concern that day already, and wanted to get ahead of it.


    She and Huo Shao Ting both did not wish to invite trouble, but she did not expect her concern to be prophetically true.


    In this current situation, even if they wished to let TK off, the other party may not appreciate it.


    It''s possible they could even manufacture some incident to me them instead.


    Although they have the videos as proof, they still can''t exin anything.


    It can only show that it was a work mistake by their internal employee, and cannot prove anything else.


    Ha Wei probably also thought of this, which is why he dared to send out this news with such arrogance.


    "I had someone keep an eye on that employee. I keep feeling that there''s something wrong with her."


    "With such huge losses for TK this time, plus having released a statement like this, TK will surely fire that employee."


    "If that employee really has some ulterior motive, or someone instructed her to do this, that would be great."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. She of course understood everything Rong Dai said, but currently, there was little they could do.


    Although Zhang Assistant forcefully handled a bunch of peoplest night, that was merely a quick fix, only able to deter some cowardly people.


    Doing that could only stabilize things briefly. Once someone with powerful backers stands out to attack Rong Dai, everything that happenedst night would just wash away with the currents.


    So resolving this matter quickly is truly very difficult.


    "You did very well, Nianzhi. Thank you," Rong Dai nodded. She did not expect Lu Nianzhi to be so thoughtful.


    "I was just being cautious. With things like these, there''s usually only two ways they could develop," Lu Nianzhi said.


    "But I didn''t think TK would choose such a stupid approach."


    Lu Nianzhi knitted her brows with a sigh.


    Ever since TK came into being, they were always adored by the public, and pampered by top international luxury brands.


    She was also a fan of TK, but did not expect to feel unprecedented disgust upon interacting with them directly.


    "They''re not stupid, in fact they are extremely cunning."


    "This incident made them realize where our bottom line lies. I won''t condone any unspoken industry practices."


    "Rules are rules, there is no such thing as unwritten ones."


    "I don''t ept their mistakes because I don''t want any blemishes on something I''ve put my heart and soul into."


    "But since they can no longer coborate with us, there won''t be a next time."


    "Why not just hand this over to Jin Yu Fang. After all Jin Yu Fang was looking forward to working with TK, so let''s give them a push on downstream currents, why not?"


    Rong Dai analyzed with a shake of her head.

 Chapter 330: The Speculation of Rong Dai

    <h4>Chapter 330</h4>


    "Anyway, no matter what their reasons are, they have openly torn their faces with us, so of course there is no need to be polite anymore," Rong Dai said in a low voice.


    "Then what do you n to do?" Lu Nianzhi asked her.


    Rong Dai looked at her, her beautiful eyes were very deep.


    "Kill the chicken to warn the monkey. TK wants toe to China to make money, so I won''t let him make it."


    Her eyes were sharp.


    She had originally intended to let this matter pass peacefully, but since TK wanted to smear her like this, she would not be polite either.


    They did not have any rtionship to begin with.


    "You mean not to allow TK to enter the China market? This...will be very difficult!"


    Lu Nianzhi was a little surprised.


    But Rong Dai was not worried at all.


    "Why do you think TK has not yet entered the China market?"


    She asked Lu Nianzhi in return.


    Although she did not really understand all the twists and turns in these business battles, she understood the word "interest."


    She also understood human nature.


    Lu Nianzhi could not answer this question.


    After all, many international luxury brands had already entered China long ago, only TK had been in a wait-and-see attitude for so many years.


    A sly smile appeared at the corner of Rong Dai''s mouth: "Nianzhi, you have been overseas for so many years, you must have people you trust."


    "There is one thing I would like you to help with. I will also givepensation to your friends, but they must be trustworthy."


    Seeing her serious and sly look, Lu Nianzhi somehow felt an inexplicable trust in Rong Dai from the bottom of her heart.


    Although she was six years younger than herself, when she spoke, there was always an inexplicable sense of confidence.


    "What do you want to investigate?"


    "Investigate TK''s views on our China abroad, as well as TK''s sales data in the European and American markets over the years."


    "It is true that TK wants to make money in China, but it is not necessarily because they really want to cater to the China or Asian market."


    "Due to poormunication, many foreigners do not have a friendly or kind attitude towards China."


    "There are countless foreigners online attacking China, I havepared the data in the fashion circle over the years."


    "Although luxury brands ount for arge part, niche brands are not bad either. As long as the marketing is done well, there is no need to worry about the market."


    Rong Dai exined.


    Lu Nianzhi was so smart that she immediately understood the meaning of her words.


    "So you suspect that TK''s market has shrunk? So they want toe to China?"


    Rong Dai nodded: "This is just my guess for now. After all, even though TK has a ce in the fashion circle, it has no shortage ofpetitors."


    "Other brands have already entered China, so why hasn''t TKe yet? Aren''t you curious?"


    "Of course, this is just my guess. You don''t need to focus too much on investigating in this direction. The most important thing is that employee, that is one of our breakthroughs."


    "Also, if the person called ''Brother Long'' can be found, the truth about my previous kidnapping may alsoe to light."


    "There must be a connection between these two things. Someone doesn''t want my work to be selected by TK, nor do they want me to go to TK''s show."


    Rong Dai exined. Although she had guesses in her heart, she had no actual evidence in her hands.


    Now they only needed to find evidence and write articles to publish them, and all problems could be solved.


    "Then I''ll get right on it!"


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. She had never thought in this direction before, but Rong Dai''s words enlightened her.


    Having been abroad for so many years, she was very clear about the great controversy that Western countries held towards China.


    If Rong Dai''s spection was true, then things would be easy to resolve.


    This would undoubtedly be a heavy blow to TK!

 Chapter 331: Up All Night 02

    <h4>Chapter 331</h4>


    After Lu Nianzhi left the ward, Rong Dai tidied up her thoughts and rested for a while, then cooperated with the doctor for recovery.


    Although she only had a miscarriage, Huo Shao Ting had the hospital adopt the best treatment n to help her recover.


    Although she was still heartbroken over losing the baby, she had to hang on!


    She needed to have enough confidence and be strong enough!


    Only then in the future could she set a good example for her child and have the ability to keep everything she wanted.


    So she was very serious about cooperating with the doctor''s treatment.


    Although her body was very weak, she didn''t make a sound.


    After the recovery treatment was done, she returned to the ward, which was arge suite.


    It was more like a suite than a ward, with veryplete facilities.


    After cleaning up, the hospital sent over postpartum meals.


    Other people eat postpartum meals with their little babies next to them, but she was all alone.


    Although she felt bad, Rong Dai still ate the postpartum meal bite by bite carefully.


    Then she took her tablet and went online to study. No matter what, she would never fall behind on learning.


    Only by working hard and doing her job well could she live up to her child who didn''t get to see this colorful world.


    After Huo Mei Shu returned to the Huo residence, she first told Old Madam what had happened before going downstairs to tell Mrs. Wang to cook bird''s nest soup.


    Mrs. Wang nodded and started preparing to cook the bird''s nest soup.


    "Miss, Madam didn''te backst night. Did she sleep at the hospital? Why didn''t shee back with you? Old Madam asked about her this morning too."


    When Mrs. Wang said this, Huo Mei Shu''s face suddenly changed!


    "My mom didn''te backst night?"


    She didn''t question Mrs. Wang further.


    Mrs. Wang was frightened by her expression: "No...no! Last night Madam said she was going to the hospital to see Old Madam and left with the chicken soup, and hasn''te back until now."


    "I thought Madam slept at the hospital, so I didn''t ask."


    Mrs. Wang exined. Seeing her abnormal expression, she quickly asked again, "Is...something wrong with Madam?"


    Huo Mei Shu quickly shook her head with a forced smile and pushed Mrs. Wang to cook the bird''s nest soup: "It''s fine Mrs. Wang, you go do your thing."


    After saying that, she hurriedly left the kitchen and ran upstairs to her room to call Lu Zheng.


    But after calling seven or eight times, no one picked up. Huo Mei Shu was both annoyed and worried!


    If she had known this troublesome olddy would be like this, she should have personally taken her backst night.


    But now it was toote, and she didn''t know where this woman went.


    In desperation, she called Lu Hong.


    "Second brother Lu, help me check where my mother''s phone is. She didn''te back all nightst night!"


    "Because of sister-inw''s matter, I was a little harsh when I talked to herst night. I called her but she just won''t pick up. I hope nothing bad has happened!"


    Huo Mei Shu was anxious but didn''t dare speak loudly. She could only lower her voice to ask Lu Hong for help.


    Lu Hong agreed on the other end. After the siblings hung up, Huo Mei Shu received a text message shortly after.


    Seeing this address, Huo Mei Shu breathed a sigh of relief.


    This was the bar her old mother often went to drink with her olddy friends, very safe.


    Even if she got drunk, there was a hotel upstairs to rest.


    No wonder there was no sign of her all night, turned out she went drinking.


    "Such a headache..."


    Huo Mei Shu felt helpless. She didn''t originally want to bother with this, but thinking back to what she saidst night, she also felt it was a bit too harsh.


    She touched her face. Her eyelids were a little heavy, so she simply called Jiang Xu toe pick her up.

 Chapter 332: Miss Huo is Amazing

    <h4>Chapter 332</h4>


    ��Aunt Huo, what happened to your face? Did you go rob someonest night?��


    When Jiang Xu picked up Huo Mei Shu in his car and saw her haggard face that looked like a ghost, he exaggeratedly acted as if he was scared by her.


    Huo Mei Shu nced at him and got into the car, ��Does this youngdy look like someone who needs to go rob others?��


    Jiang Xu shrugged without saying anything. This auntie had morning temper, and was clearly in a bad mood right now. He didn��t want to get his ears twisted.


    ��I was keeping vigil by my sister-inw��s side at the hospitalst night. My eyes haven��t even closed before I had to go find my troublesome mom again. I��m really having it hard...��


    Huo Mei Shu sighed heavily with a sinking face.


    Jiang Xu knitted his brows slightly, catching a glimpse of her worn out face from the corner of his eyes. Seeing her looking so listless, he felt a twinge in his heart.


    He thought after this girl went to Gu Chengyan, she would get what she wished for.


    But it hasn��t been long! How did she be such a wretched creature, neither ghost nor human!


    Jiang Xu was extremely pissed inside, determined to settle scores with Gu Chengyan!


    "By the way, what was the name of that academy you rmended to mest time? Send the information to my emailter."


    Huo Mei Shu leaned against the car seat, her voice a littlezy and permeated with fatigue.


    While driving, Jiang Xu asked her in a deliberately casual manner, "Have you made up your mind? Not going after your dream guy anymore?"


    Upon hearing the words "dream guy", Huo Mei Shu immediately gave a coldugh, staring at him with an extremely icy look.


    "Don''t ever mention the words ''dream guy'' and ''Gu Chengyan'' in front of me from now on. He''s not worth it!"


    "He''s not a dream guy at all. Just a sisterplex. I must have gone crazy to be interested in him!"


    "Such a pretty face almost ruined my precious youth!"


    Just thinking about Gu Chengyan pissed her off, and made her feel some resentment as well.


    But when she thought about it, Gu Chengyan only asked her to work in his studio. Nothing else she imagined had happened.


    So to him, she was just a stranger after all.


    While Gu Mingci was not his blood-rted sister, after living in the Gu family for so many years, of course their sibling bond was more important than her, an outsider.


    Listening to her, Jiang Xu felt a little exasperated inside.


    This young auntie was truly formidable. Her precious youth waspletely wasted on this crooked tree called Gu Chengyan!


    "Ms. Huo is indeed someone of strong character! I admire you!"


    He gave Huo Mei Shu a big thumbs up.


    "Just drive properly. And remember to send me the info."


    Huo Mei Shu rolled her eyes at him. Usually she would surely retort, but not this time.


    Perhaps she was too tired, or she was still feeling heartbroken.


    Soon they arrived at the hotel. The address Lu Hong sent was very urate, even stating the room number clearly.


    Seeing the "Do Not Disturb" door hanger, Huo Mei Shu was pissed.


    What was so important that couldn''t be properly discussed at home?


    This Ms. Lu was really bing more and more daring, actually drinking alone outside and noting home overnight!


    She roughly kept pressing the doorbell.


    The room was dimly-lit and full of sensual atmosphere. Yin Zhongjun was still not done enjoying Lu Zheng''s body after a night of passion. He was just about to indulge further when the doorbell interrupted them annoyingly.


    Probably due to her hangover and the drug effect, Lu Zheng was still fast asleep. However, Huo Mei Shu pressed the bell so violently that it was like an rm. Gradually, it woke Lu Zheng up from her slumber.

 Chapter 333: The Dream Is True

    <h4>Chapter 333</h4>


    Lu Zheng woke up with a flushed face. She never expected that after being emotionally detached for so many years, she would have such a shameful dreamst night.


    "Zheng Zheng, are you awake?"


    "Hit me! I''m nothing but a beast!"


    "Last night, I actually intended to send you back, but you didn''t want to go, so I escorted you up here to rest."


    "But... but you held onto me and wouldn''t let me go, and I lost my senses for a moment..."


    "Zheng Zheng, I''m such a scoundrel! Hit me!"


    Although Yin Zhongjun felt a bit disappointed that she had woken up, he had finally achieved his goalst night.


    To avoid raising Lu Zheng''s suspicions, he knelt on the bed, his face filled with sorrow and guilt, and repeatedly pped himself hard!


    Lu Zheng''s expression suddenly changed!


    She stared nkly at Yin Zhongjun before her. Being experienced, how could she not understand what had happened between themst night?!


    She had thought it was all just a dream!


    But the reality turned out to be...


    Lu Zheng''s heart churned violently for a moment. She couldn''t ept such a situation!


    Even though Yin Zhongjun had once been the man she secretly loved, and even though they were both free now!


    "You, you, get out of here!"


    Lu Zheng''s eyes turned red, tears streaming down her face. She tightly grabbed the nket to cover herself, feeling immensely ashamed!


    Yin Zhongjun''s face changed drastically!


    This wasn''t how the script was supposed to go!


    Shouldn''t she have been moved by his responsibility and sincerity, and then they would embrace each other as she cried, and everything would naturally fall into ce?


    How did it turn into him being driven away?


    "Zheng Zheng! Zheng Zheng! I know I was wrong!"


    "I shouldn''t have taken advantage of the situation, but I had also been longing for you all these years."


    "And, and you were willing too!"


    "I will take responsibility, we can get married right away!"


    "Zheng Zheng, you have to trust me!"


    "Zheng Zheng, if I lose you, I will definitely die!"


    Yin Zhongjun rushed to her like a crazy person, tightly embracing her, acting affectionate and anxious.


    Lu Zheng found it hard to ept this situation and screamed in fear!


    "???"


    Huo Mei Shu outside the door, with sharp ears, although she couldn''t hear everything clearly, she confirmed that she had indeed heard something.


    She turned to look at Jiang Xu and asked, "Did you hear anything just now?"


    Jiang Xu cleared his throat, trying to conceal his embarrassment.


    She screamed so loudly, and his ears were not deaf. How could he not hear?


    "I didn''t hear anything. Maybe Aunt Lu is still resting, let''s not disturb her."


    If he had known that thisdy was here for this, he would have definitely stopped her!


    Aunt Lu was alone, and everyone here was adults. Some things didn''t need to be explicitly stated, but were understood.


    Only this sillydy made things awkward with her innocence!


    "That won''t do!"


    Huo Mei Shu stubbornly shook her head.


    "Big sister-inw just lost her baby, and Big Brother is also heartbroken. Second Brother has his own work to attend to."


    "Grandma is getting older, and everyone is grieving over this matter. I can''t let my mom cause any more trouble."


    "Otherwise, she willin that her whole family doesn''t understand her, and she will feel frustrated again."


    Jiang Xu: "..."


    Can he just knock someone out and take them away?


    It''s obvious what''s going on in this room...


    If Aunt Lues out at this moment and sees her daughter at the door, how awkward would that be?


    "Madam, can your mind think of something else?"


    "Aunt Lu is your mom. She knows what she''s doing. Don''t cause trouble! I''ll take you to eat something delicious!"


    Saying that, Jiang Xu wanted to drag the person away.

 Chapter 334: You Let Me Out

    <h4>Chapter 334</h4>


    "Jiang Xu, are you out of your mind? How does me picking up my mom be causing trouble?"


    Huo Mei Shu was displeased as soon as she heard those words!


    If it were her older brother or grandmother scolding her, she could still ept it.


    But this guy''s meaning?


    Jiang Xu looked at the sky in silence. He should have checked the almanac first before answering this aunt''s call.


    He wanted to crack open her head and see if she genuinely didn''t understand or just pretended not to.


    Just when Jiang Xu was about to exin, the room was filled with Lu Zheng''s louder roar and crying.


    Now both of them heard it clearly. There was no way to pass it off anymore!


    Huo Mei Shu stood there dumbfounded, staring at Jiang Xu.


    Jiang Xu couldn''t help but sigh and looked at her helplessly. "Now do you understand why I said you caused trouble?"


    "Aunt Lu is a free woman, and she has been guarding you all these years without remarrying."


    "But humans have physical needs, and for your daughter to witness her in such a situation, it''s so embarrassing for her!"


    Huo Mei Shu opened her mouth, not knowing what to say. She felt like she had been struck by lightning!


    "How... how could this be?"


    She could hardly believe her ears.


    In her memory, although her mother was not very smart, she was definitely a virtuous person. How could she be involved in such a mess?


    And her mother would never be so promiscuous!


    "It''s impossible! My mom is not that kind of person!"


    "Even if she has physical needs, if she wants to marry a man, we wouldn''t stop her!"


    "You call the police right away! I''m going to beat the crap out of that bastard in the room!"


    "Daring to take advantage of my mother, I''ll chop him up!"


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head like a rattle drum, on the verge of rage!


    Jiang Xu was speechless.


    "Why call the police? Have you lost your mind? If the policee, where can Aunt Lu hide her face?"


    "Well... I''ll open the door first!"


    Huo Mei Shu was at a loss, as if she had gone mad.


    "Mom! Open the door for me! I know you''re in there!"


    As she spoke, she pounded on the door!


    Jiang Xu was at a loss. He knew he couldn''t control this aunt. He quickly called Huo Shaojie and briefly exined the situation.


    Meanwhile, inside the room, Lu Zheng was frightened by Yin Zhongjun''s sudden violence!


    When she was at the Lu family, she was a little princess.


    In the Huo family, her husband was considerate, although she had been a widow for so many years, her life was still elegant.


    Where had she encountered such a thing?


    At that moment, she felt like she was on the verge of a breakdown!


    Looking at the man in front of her, Lu Zheng could hardly believe her eyes!


    She saw Yin Zhongjun, who was crazy and clinging to her, ming himself while hurting her.


    This crazy appearance was nothing like him in school, it felt so unfamiliar.


    Lu Zheng regretted her indulgencest night, which led to this mistake.


    "Zhongjun, please stop... I don''t me you."


    "Let me go, let''s pretend that what happenedst night didn''t happen. My daughter is still outside, let me go."


    Lu Zheng steadied herself and said.


    But how could Yin Zhongjun agree?


    In his pursuit of Lu Zheng, he has endured a great deal of hardshiptely��working hard to improve his physique and eating lighter than a sow.


    His intention in getting close to Lu Zheng is solely for her wealth, ensuring a worry-free life in the future.


    And now she ims not to care?


    That''s impossible!


    "Zheng Zheng, are you really that heartless? I''ve waited for you all these years, and you don''t even remember our past love?"


    "Then why did you keep me herest night? After all these years, weren''t you lonely?"


    Yin Zhongjun questioned her as if he had gone mad!

 Chapter 335: Do you want to be handsome or not

    <h4>Chapter 335</h4>


    "You, you......how can you be so shameless?!" Lu Zheng was shocked beyond belief, but she didn''t dare struggle, she could only stare wide-eyed at Yin Zhongjun in front of her.


    "How am I shameless? I just want to be with you, that''s all. How am I shameless?"


    "Besides, if you didn''t have this intention yourselfst night, could I have brought you here?"


    "Aren''t you very satisfied yourself? You''ve already given birth to three children, what face do you have left to act all noble?"


    Seeing that she was unmoved by force or persuasion, Yin Zhongjun ran out of patience in an instant.


    No matter what, he must obtain this woman!


    Even if he couldn''t obtain her, he would at least take half her money!


    This cheap woman!


    Wasn''t hisbor through the long night tiring enough?


    Lu Zheng was like being struck by lightning from a clear sky, she never could have imagined the man she secretly loved in her youth would have this kind of face.


    "You, you, you, you......"


    Lu Zheng looked at him, unable to utter aplete sentence for half a day, with tears falling uncontrobly.


    "Lu Zheng, I finally found you after so much effort."


    "Don''t you love me a lot? Being with the Huo family was just a marriage of convenience. Now that dead ghost husband of yours is gone, dare you say you aren''t feeling lonely?"


    Yin Zhongjun''s face changed in an instant, as if he had be a devil!


    He pinched Lu Zheng''s chin, smiling coldly and viciously as he spoke.


    "I just want to reconnect our past ties, why are you resisting? Can it be you don''t want to be with me?"


    "Back when we were studying, I still have vivid memories of how you used to look at me!"


    "Your daughter is right outside now, think about it."


    "Do you want your daughter to think you found a decent man? Or do you want your daughter to think her mom was out messing around having fun with men?


    "Zheng Zheng, I''m just too in love with you, that''s why I''m so impatient to be with you."


    Yin Zhongjun resumed his gentlemanly, mild manner, leaning close to her ear.


    "Think about it, if the people around you knew you had this kind of experience, especially those upper-ssdy friends of yours, what would they think?"


    "Zheng Zheng, sooner orter we''ll be together anyway, why bother resisting?"


    "As long as you don''t resist, I''ll be sure to amodate you properly and not let your three children doubt anything."


    "You decide for yourself if you want to save face or stay noble."


    Yin Zhongjun released her and sneered as he picked up his clothes from the ground, putting them on one by one right in front of her.


    Lu Zheng felt her mind going nk,pletely unable to believe what her ears were hearing!


    "Don''t think about escaping me again. I traveled across oceans toe back, just for your sake."


    "As long as you properly stay with me, I guarantee I''ll satisfy you and fill that loneliness you''ve felt all these years."


    "I know your eldest son is quite capable, butst night''s affairs were all recorded by me."


    "When there''s time I can let you slowly appreciate your charm, I didn''t expect that after so many years you''re still so captivating."


    After Yin Zhongjun finished dressing, seeing that she still hadn''t moved, he leaned close to her ear again and spoke in a voice only the two of them could hear.


    Lu Zheng suddenly lifted her head in disbelief to look at him!


    "You...you shameless bastard!"


    "Hmph - Lu Zheng, can''t you try saying something fresh? You''re already over fifty, only have twenty or thirty more years before getting into a coffin. Why do you still want to adhere to your slight sense of integrity?"


    "What, do you want to wait for your dead ghost husband to w his way out of the mud and put up a memorial archway to praise your integrity and purity?"


    Yin Zhongjun mocked her contemptuously.


    Lu Zheng was so angry tears kept streaming down her face, also angry at herself forst night''s indulgence.


    It was because of that lingering feeling in her heart that she had let her guard down and given the other party a chance.

 Chapter 336: Pinch her Dead Spot.

    <h4>Chapter 336</h4>


    "Mom, I know you''re inside! Please open the door!"


    Huo Mei Shu continued to knock anxiously on the door, almost on the verge of tears.


    Jiang Xu felt helpless and embarrassed, but there was nothing he could do about thisdy. He could only wait for Huo Shaojie toe and handle the situation.


    "Have you made up your mind? If you have, I''ll cooperate with you."


    Yin Zhongjun listened to themotion outside the door, but instead of being afraid, he had a confident and fearless look on his face.


    He knew Lu Zheng was a proud and respectable wealthy wife like no other.


    If he didn''t know her character, if it weren''t for the fact that she still had her allure after all these years and that he could still benefit from her, would he sleep with an old woman who had been slept with by others?


    Lu Zheng was trembling with anger, sitting on the bed, tightly clutching the sheets, her veins bulging on the back of her hands!


    "If you keep dying, they will break in any minute, and when they see you like this, I don''t mind at all."


    "That works out perfectly. I''ll enjoy the recording fromst night on my own."


    Every word uttered by Yin Zhongjun made Lu Zheng feel disgusted and chilled to the bone!


    But what could she do?


    How could she tarnish the reputation of the Huo family? How could she embarrass herself in front of her children?


    And as for her mother-inw, she probably didn''t even know how she would be med.


    Last night''s confession made her think she had truly found a confidant.


    But she didn''t expect to fall into the hands of a devil!


    Lu Zheng was angry and frustrated, but she was powerless.


    With her limited intelligence, she could y the role of a pampered wealthy wife and throw a tantrum.


    But when faced with a situation like this, she could only be controlled.


    "You, you go ahead... I''ll do as you say."


    Lu Zheng tearfully agreed.


    "No need to pretend. What part of you do I not know? Have I not seen enough?"


    Yin Zhongjun knew he had already grasped Lu Zheng''s weakness and decided not to hide anything anymore.


    This foolish woman!


    She''s still as foolish as she was when she was studying! Just as naive!


    Lu Zheng''s face turned pale with anger, but Huo Mei Shu''s knocking on the door didn''t stop.


    She was also afraid that if they broke in, they would see her in such a miserable state, and she would lose all face.


    She could only get dressed under Yin Zhongjun''s disgustingly gaze, tidying herself up neatly.


    "Why didn''t you do this earlier? Why did you pretend to be so virtuous just now?"


    "I came all the way to find you. Isn''t this what you should do?"


    "Behave from now on, and yourter years won''t be empty anymore."


    "If I had known that your dead husband would have such a short life, I should havee back earlier. It''s such a pity for a beauty to age..."


    Yin Zhongjun stepped forward and hugged her, shamelessly uttering these words that made Lu Zheng sick and terrified!


    "You... show some respect!"


    Lu Zheng had led a smooth and easy life without any setbacks. She hadn''t even experienced cursing before in her life.


    "For respect? If I respected you, would you have been so satisfiedst night?"


    Yin Zhongjun sneered.


    Lu Zheng was on the verge of tears again, but when she heard Huo Mei Shu''s banging on the door, she quickly lowered her head to wipe away her tears.


    "Listen to me, go open the door. I''ll clean up everything."


    "Unless you want to be exposed, don''t even think about calling the police."


    Yin Zhongjun used a soothing tone as if he was coaxing a child.


    Lu Zheng trembled with anger, unable to understand where the sunny and refined young man from their school days had gone.


    Why did she now see such a devil standing in front of her?


    Yet she didn''t dare to resist.


    She was already fifty years old. How could she afford to lose face in such a situation?


    She stood behind the door,posed herself for a few seconds, and then opened it.

 Chapter 337: Since it鈥檚 superfluous, I鈥檓 leaving.

    <h4>Chapter 337</h4>


    "Mom..."


    "What mom? Can I still die outside?" Before Huo Mei Shu could finish speaking, Lu Zheng had already started roaring as soon as the door opened.


    Huo Mei Shu was stunned, staring nkly at her, and then her face changed color.


    "Mom! Aren''t you too willful?"


    She really couldn''t stand it anymore. She didn''t sleep all night, worried that she was in danger and thought about her bad mood.


    It was quiet and she didn''t want to sleep. She just came to pick her up and take her home.


    I didn''t expect to be scolded as soon as I opened the door!


    Huo Mei Shu herself also had a bad temper. How could she stand this grievance?


    "Now that such a big thing has happened at home, can''t you understand everyone''s mood?"


    But her words happened to step on the crux of Lu Zheng''s heart.


    Lu Zheng thought of what happenedst night and thought of the conversation with Yin Zhongjun just seconds ago.


    After so many years, hasn''t she been considerate enough?


    Now okay, they have all grown up. Mother-inw was a strong woman and she was just a wealthydy who knew how to live and spend money.


    So the whole family disliked her.


    If they could care more about her, how could she have fallen into the trapst night and her innocence be destroyed by a demon like Yin Zhongjun?


    Who else could she tell her belly full of sorrow to?


    "Mei Shu, too much!"


    Jiang Xu was someone who could read faces. Seeing Lu Zheng''s face turn gloomy, he realized something was wrong and quickly pulled Huo Mei Shu and reminded her in a low voice.


    "Jiang Xu, let her speak! Let her speak well. How can I, as a mother, not worry?"


    "After so many years, you have all grown up now. One by one, you start to dislike me, don''t you?"


    "Okay, I can''t leave, can I? After all, you have Huo family blood in you, and I, Lu Zheng, don''t. Your family can live in harmony, and I, an outsider, should have left long ago, right?"


    Lu Zheng had umted so much anger over the years, and thought of what she had just experiencedst night. As soon as she opened the door, she was questioned by her daughter.


    Her grievance and resentment erupted!


    Huo Mei Shu was shocked and angry: "Mom, how can you say that?"


    "When did we dislike you? Isn''t it hurtful to say such things? Eldest brother and second brother are busy, and I apany you the most."


    "I coax you the most at home too. How have I disliked you?"


    Lu Zheng was also horrified by the words that came out of her own mouth.


    But words that are spoken out and water that is spilled cannot be recovered.


    If she and the Huo family parted like this, it would be good too. At least... at least Yin Zhongjun, the demon''s attempt would not seed!


    Thinking of this, Lu Zheng''s viciousness came up again!


    "Your mom is a free body now. It''s my business who I want to be nice with. As a daughter, you shouldn''t bemanding me on what I do outside and who I''m with."


    "Get as far away from me as you can. I won''t go back to the Huo family!"


    "Since I''m redundant, I might as well leave."


    "You!"


    Huo Mei Shu was so angry that she was speechless. She never imagined that these words woulde out of her own mother''s mouth!


    Hearing things getting worse in the room, Yin Zhongjun, who had just put down the teapot, hurriedly came over.


    This shrew actually wanted to leave the Huo family!


    If she left the Huo family, wouldn��t his n be in vain?


    "Mei Shu, your mother is just too shy."


    "I''m called Yin Zhongjun. You can call me Uncle Yin. Your mother and I were high school ssmates."


    "I am single now. After finding out about your mother''s affairs, I returned to China."


    "You also know that your mother is beautiful after so many years."


    "After she got married I didn''t dare bother her again. So when I coincidentally heard about her affairs abroad recently, I came back to find her. We''ve been together for a while."


    In front of Huo Mei Shu, Yin Zhongjun behaved as gentlemanly as he didst night, courteous and polite.

 Chapter 338: Mother against Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 338</h4>


    "I originally wanted to find an opportunity to tell you, but Zheng Zheng was afraid it would affect you, so she had been holding back without saying anything," Yin Zhongjun said mildly, also with some apology.


    Huo Mei Shu stared nkly at this man who had popped out from her mother''s room, her mind aplete mess.


    It wasn''t that she couldn''t ept her mother finding someone again, but there were so many scammers these days!


    Just like that scumbag Gu Cheng Yan who pretended to be cultured but was actually a viin!


    Besides, they hadn''t seen each other for decades, right?


    Who could guarantee the other person wouldn''t change?


    "Shut up!"


    She yelled at Yin Zhongjun and went to pull Lu Zheng out!


    "You''reing home with me right now!"


    "I don''t object to you finding me a stepfather, but you haven''t seen this man for decades. You''re so simple-minded to believe whatever anyone tells you!"


    "Come home with me now! When my brother has investigated clearly, I''ll agree to you two being together!"


    "Otherwise, don''t even think about it!"


    Huo Mei Shu said while pulling Lu Zheng.


    Jiang Xu waspletely dumbfounded! He had always known Aunt Lu to be very gentle.


    Yin Zhongjun was very dissatisfied at being scolded by Huo Mei Shu, but he couldn''t show it. He could only pretend to be pained as he defended Lu Zheng, taking the me onto himself.


    p!


    "Enough!"


    In the pulling and tugging, Lu Zheng angrily pped Huo Mei Shu''s face!


    "This is my own business. You have no right to boss me around! You can''t even handle your own affairs properly, yet you want to meddle in this mother''s business?"


    "I''ve already made my decision. No one can change it!"


    "Jiang Xu, take her home!"


    Lu Zheng said coldly as she shook off Huo Mei Shu''s hand and ordered Jiang Xu in a low voice.


    Jiang Xu was also shocked by her sudden p. In his memory, Aunt Lu had always been very gentle.


    Huo Mei Shu grasped her cheek, staring at Lu Zheng in shock, puzzlement and confusion until Jiang Xu pulled her away. Only then did she react that she had been hit!


    And by her dear mother who had never lifted a finger against her from when she was little!


    Lu Zheng watched the two people leave. She turned around to push Yin Zhongjun away and mmed the door shut!


    Tears rolled down immediately.


    Mei Shu, mother is so sorry to do this to you.


    Lu Zheng could only apologize to her daughter in her heart.


    p!


    But before she could grieve, her cheek stung sharply. Her whole body staggered and fell to the ground. There was a bloody taste in her mouth.


    "Lu Zheng, you bitch! You''re actually moving out of the Huo family?! Did you ask me for permission first?!"


    Yin Zhongjun was furious. He pped Lu Zheng and still wasn''t appeased. Grabbing her hair, he dragged her onto the carpet next to the coffee table and pped her several more times.


    When had Lu Zheng ever suffered such treatment?


    With just a few heavy ps, blood was flowing from her nose and mouth. Her whole body was about to lose consciousness.


    "What a bitch!"


    Yin Zhongjun was extremely annoyed. Worried that he would beat her to death and then have no way to exin it to the Huo family, he stopped.


    Lying on the floor, Lu Zheng felt like her soul had left her body, drifting hazily.


    She hadn''t expected that after living a smooth, easy life for over half a century, a momentary impulse would make her fall into such an abyss.


    Yin Zhongjun ignored her after beating her enough. He turned around to go to bed.


    Lu Zheng felt as if she had be a lifeless corpse.


    She had not done anything bad her whole life. Why would such a devil appear by her side?


    It was as if the elegant, gentlemanly Yin Zhongjun fromst night had been purely imagined by her!

 Chapter 339: When Don鈥檛 I Pay

    <h4>Chapter 339</h4>


    ��Huo ShaoJie, Jiang Xu, what on earth is going on here?��


    Huo ShaoJie, who had just rushed over from thepany, happened to see Jiang Xu bringing Huo Mei Shu out from the building. Seeing Huo Mei Shu''s face ashen with anger, he hurried to ask.


    ��Let''s get her in the car first, Aunt Lu is fine.��


    Jiang Xu had also opened his eyes wide, he would never have imagined that not only did this mother and daughter have an argument, they actually got into a physical altercation.


    This young miss had never suffered any hardship from a young age, the only downfall was probably with Gu ChengYan.


    How could she tolerate such grievances?


    Huo ShaoJie believed Jiang Xu, and helped to get the still furious Huo Mei Shu into the car. They found a tea bar and sat down.


    ��Are you done with your antics? Do you think there is not enough going on with the family already?��


    Seeing that Huo Mei Shu was still making a fuss, Huo ShaoJie lost his temper.


    Although Huo Mei Shu was usually disrespectful towards him, when she really saw Huo ShaoJie angry, she was still a little afraid inside.


    She hung her head with an extremely aggrieved expression, and tears rolled down her cheeks.


    Seeing her like this, Huo ShaoJie was both angry and helpless. He had no choice but to ask Jiang Xu.


    Jiang Xu told the whole story truthfully.


    "Just because of this?"


    Huo ShaoJie simply felt it was unbelievable. This was not at all like his mother��s personality.


    Jiang Xu nodded and nced at Huo Mei Shu beside him, ��Mei Shu was actually worried that Aunt Lu was being deceived. She just lost her temper in the heat of the moment and said those things.��


    ��Aunt Lu was probably not feeling great either, so they started arguing.��


    ��Aunt Lu said she won''t be returning to the Huo Family for now. It looks like she might stay with Uncle Yin.��


    ��Although Aunt Lu didn''t exin anything, I know her. She is a very steady and self-respecting person.��


    ��If she didn''t really have deep feelings for Uncle Yin, she probably wouldn''t have spent the night outst night either.��


    Jiang Xu felt extremely frustrated.


    Every time this young miss asked him to help with something, it was always some bizarre matter.


    ��Aunt Lu has had a hard life. She probably feels that you''ve all grown up and no one cares about her anymore, so she said those things.��


    ��There''s a lot going on in the Huo Family now. If you can put your mind at ease, let Aunt Lu rx and unwind for a while.��


    ��That Uncle Yin seems decent to me. Since they are old acquaintances, he should treat Aunt Lu well.��


    Jiang Xu exined, recalling the earlier scene, he was very embarrassed as a junior!


    But on second thoughts, it was also human nature.


    After all, Aunt Lu was a human being of flesh and blood. She had raised three children in the Huo Family for half her life.


    If she could meet a confidante for the second half of her life, that would not necessarily be a bad thing.


    Huo ShaoJie nodded, and nced at the time on his watch.


    ��I understand what happened now. I will get to the bottom of this.��


    ��Your elder brother and sister-inw are grieving now. Don''t bother them with this matter.��


    ��And don''t say anything to Grandma, or Mum won''t be able to speak her mind in front of the olddy in future.��


    He instructed Huo Mei Shu, then stood up and patted Jiang Xu on the shoulder.


    ��Jiang Xu, I''ll have to trouble you to send her back. Let��s meet up when we are free and I��ll treat you to a meal.��


    After saying that, he left.


    Seeing that Huo Mei Shu was still crying, Jiang Xu handed her some tissue.


    ��I know you feel wronged. Didn''t you always want to go to that Thai restaurant? I��ll bring you there, how about it?��


    Huo Mei Shu was the kind of person whose mood came and went very quickly.


    Except for matters rted to Gu ChengYan.


    ��You��re paying?��


    She blew her nose and looked up at Jiang Xu with watery eyes.


    Jiang Xuughed in spite of himself, ��Young miss, when have I not paid before?��

 Chapter 340: You Can鈥檛 Lie

    <h4>Chapter 340</h4>


    Lu Zheng''s matter, Huo Mei Shu received instructions from Huo Shaojie and kept it a secret.


    "Mei Shu, what happened to your face?"


    Rong Dai was observant. In the evening, Huo Mei Shu brought bird''s nest, although her younger sister-inw had covered her face with foundation to conceal the blemish.


    But the palm print could still be seen upon closer inspection.


    Huo Mei Shu subconsciously covered her face and quickly shook her head, "It''s nothing, I bumped into something in the afternoon."


    Rong Dai knew she was lying.


    However, Rong Dai herself had a pile of things to deal with, and since her younger sister-inw didn''t want to talk about it, she didn''t pursue it either.


    After using the bird''s nest and engaging in recovery exercises throughout the day, she felt much better.


    "Sister-inw, I have a question for you."


    Huo Mei Shu sat on the sofa beside the hospital bed, asking her with some uneasiness.


    "Go ahead."


    Rong Dai paused her online course and looked at her inquiringly.


    "Is it possible that you believe there will be someone you know, who will still have feelings for you after several decades of separation, and wille back from afar to continue your past love?"


    Huo Mei Shu asked stutteringly.


    Although she had been beaten, that person was still her biological mother.


    Now her eldest and second brother were both busy, and if she didn''t pay attention, what if it was really one of those scammers from the inte? How could she handle it?


    It was one thing to be cheated out of money, but the most important thing was her foolish and fragile biological mother, who would suffer a great loss.


    With her fragile will, how could she withstand such a blow?


    Rong Dai was puzzled as to why her younger sister-inw would ask such a question.


    "Never mind, I just asked casually. I heard someone say that in our ssmates'' group."


    "Sister-inw, since you''re so intelligent, I wanted to know what you think."


    Huo Mei Shu quickly ended the topic, fearing that Rong Dai would press for more details.


    But Rong Dai spoke up.


    "It''s hard to say. After several decades of not seeing each other, everyone changes."


    "Even if it was someone you used to trust with all your heart, I can''t imagine why you wouldn''t be in contact for several decades unless there was a special reason."


    "If it were in ancient times, it would be understandable, but with today''s advanced technology, as long as you want to contact someone and make an effort, can''t you still reach them?"


    "If it''s your ssmate, I suggest being cautious. Whether they are human or ghost, it takes time to discern."


    Upon hearing her words, Huo Mei Shu''s face immediately turned pale.


    "Well... then, Sister-inw, how do you think I should handle it? What if the other party... for example, holds someone hostage and lives with them?"


    Rong Dai frowned. Her younger sister-inw asked such an unprofessional question.


    And several decades... isn''t that too long of a time span?


    Her younger sister-inw is only two years older than herself. Even if they were ssmates who knew each other since birth, there wouldn''t be several decades of separation, right?


    "Mei Shu, tell me, did something happen?"


    "You''re not good at lying, and you can''t hide your worries."


    "Was this question you asked not something you saw in your ssmates'' group?"


    Rong Dai pressed her for answers, worried that someone might take advantage of the chaos in the Huo family during this period.


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t expect to be exposed as soon as she spoke.


    However, she didn''t know how to approach the topic. How could a daughter like her speak about such matters?


    "Meng Shu, since you''vee to ask me, it means you think there''s something wrong with this situation."


    "If you don''t speak up now and wait until it''s truly irreparable, then it will be toote, you know?"


    Seeing her like this, Rong Dai spoke with seriousness and sincerity as she analyzed the situation for her.


    It was true that she had suffered the painful loss of her beloved son, and her mood was indeed filled with immense sorrow.


    But that didn''t mean her brain had stopped working. Meng Shu''s strange question must have had a reason behind it.

 Chapter 341: Look Good

    <h4>Chapter 341</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu was wringing her hands on her chest, biting her lips for a few seconds before carefully telling Rong Dai everything that had happened today from start to finish.


    "Sister-inw, we would have no objection if Mom wanted to remarry."


    "She has lived her entire life for my dad and us three siblings."


    "In a prestigious family, she did enjoy luxury, but there are some things that we as her children are unable to give her."


    Huo Mei Shu was afraid Rong Dai would have some unpleasant thoughts about this. After all, in the eyes of outsiders, Lu Zheng was already a 50-year-old woman.


    At her age, people would think she should just quietly stay at home waiting to die - this was the only "normal" thing that those who believed themselves normal could ept.


    But the pursuit of love had never been the privilege of the young!


    "If she really found a man who sincerely treats her well and can spend the second half of her life with her in peace, we would fully support it with open arms."


    "But that Uncle Yin we saw today looked sleek on the outside but something about his eyes made me feel uneasy."


    Huo Mei Shu exined with a frown.


    Sometimes a woman��s sixth sense could be as urate as radar or GPS.


    Rong Dai was surprised that her mother-inw had this kind of experience.


    Although given her status in her past life, it would have been impossible for her mother-inw to remarry at this age.


    But things were different here - she had already epted many fresh ideas in this new world.


    Just like what her sister-inw said, life was so short.


    Why should women be constrained by all kinds of restrictions? Why couldn''t they seek their own happiness?


    She liked such carefree freedom.


    Having spent ten years in the cold pce in her past life, she could really empathize with her mother-inw��s gloom.


    Some voids could not be filled simply by money or a respectable life.


    One lived this life pursuing desires. It was just that some desires could be suppressed while others, once out of control, would lead to destruction.


    "Also, Mom is not that kind of person. Even if I upset her with something I said yesterday, she would at most ignore me instead of talking to me in that tone. I don''t think Mom is happy at all - when you meet someone you really like, just like you and big brother, you can''t hide it."


    Huo Mei Shu went on analyzing her viewpoint.


    Rong Dai listened very carefully.


    It would be understandable if her mother-inw was really deceived or coerced into acting so out of character.


    Her mother-inw had a lot of self-respect butcked power.


    Her grandmother-inw was a strong woman. She was the one who contributed the most to the Huo family��s ability to stand tall until this day without being defeated.


    It��s easy to build an empire but hard to maintain it.


    Her grandmother-inw clearly understood this principle. Her mother-inw was definitely not a suitable candidate to take over the family business.


    That��s why there was that incident on New Year��s Eve.


    Although her mother-inw didn''t say anything more about it, as a fellow woman who had the life experience of pce concubines in her previous life, she could see through her mother-inw��s personality at a nce.


    Her mother-inw was still very concerned about taking over family operations, but her grandmother-inw had already spoken, and neither San Lei nor the others objected.


    How could her mother-inw alone resist them?


    It was precisely this kind of personality that made it more likely her mother-inw would not easily tell her children about thorny issues she encountered.


    Because she cared about keeping face.


    She was like a precious vase - eye-catching and beautiful when disyed, but would be worthless if cracked one day.


    After maintaining her gracefulposure for so many years, her mother-inw would certainly not allow such ws to appear on herself.

 Chapter 342: Let鈥檚 find out first.

    <h4>Chapter 342</h4>


    "What do you want to do?" Rong Dai didn''t express her own analysis and opinion first. Instead, she asked her little sister-inw in return.


    Although she was also worried that her mother-inw would be deceived, she was, after all, a daughter-inw. If she rashly intervened in such matters...


    If things were handled well, everyone would be happy.


    But if things weren''t handled well, it would strain their mother-inw and daughter-inw rtionship and also affect her rtionship with the Huo family.


    She wasn''t worried about Huo Shaoting, though. He was so intelligent that he often thought of things she hadn''t even considered.


    Moreover, if Huo Shaoting was truly indecisive, he wouldn''t have been able to take charge of the Huo family business.


    It was just her little brother-inw and little sister-inw.


    These two people were Huo Shaoting''s siblings.


    Although their sibling rtionship didn''t seem as close as a normal family, they were blood-rted, after all.


    She didn''t want their sibling rtionship to crack because of her mishandling of the situation.


    Huo Meishu shook her head, her gaze fixed on Rong Dai.


    "Sister-inw, I know you''re smart. I''m a bit slow."


    "Besides, given my mother''s current situation, she definitely wouldn''t let me ask too much."


    "I guess something else has happened before we could even ask anything."


    She truly loved and felt helpless toward her biological mother.


    Especially when she thought about what she had seen in the morning, it was like a bolt from the blue for her!


    After pondering for a moment, Rong Dai replied, "Don''t tell Grandma about this for now. Let''s wait until your older brotheres back, and I''ll talk to him."


    "After all, we haven''t investigated who this Uncle Yin really is. What if he actually treats Mom well?"


    "If we rashly break them up, Mom would not only be heartbroken but also hold a grudge against us."


    She hadn''t personally witnessed this matter. It was only based on her little sister-inw''s testimony, so she didn''t dare to make hasty judgments.


    Huo Meishu nodded in response, but there was still a heavy look on her face.


    "Don''t worry too much. Although Mom seems fragile, she is very strong."


    "Otherwise, she wouldn''t have made it through all these years."


    Seeing her troubled expression, Rong Dai reassured her.


    "Sister-inw, thank you..."


    Huo Meishu quickly lowered her head and wiped away her tears, expressing her gratitude.


    "It''s gettingte, and your older brother probably doesn''t have the energy to drive you back."


    "You should go back and rest early. It''s not safe for a girl to be outside sote."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded.


    After Huo Meishu wiped away her tears, she left the hospital room with her thermal lunchbox.


    Rong Dai rested alone in the hospital room for a while before finally starting to study after digesting and processing this matter.


    It wasn''t until 10 p.m. that Huo Shaoting returned from thepany.


    "Have you had dinner?" Seeing his tired expression, Rong Dai couldn''t help but feel sorry for him. She put down her tablet and got up to fetch another thermos.


    "This is stewed chicken soup. You haven''t had proper rest for a few days, so have some to warm your body."


    "I''ll take care of it, you go lie down."


    Huo Shaoting took off his suit jacket and quickly stepped forward to take the soup spoon from her hand. He tilted his head and gently kissed her head, tenderly advising her.


    Rong Dai followed his lead and embraced him from behind, lowering her head under his arm as she spoke, "I''ve been lying in bed all day. The doctor said it''s not good to stay in bed all the time, and I need some exercise."


    Huo Shao Ting was at a loss as to what to do with her. After cing the soup on the table, he quickly grabbed a cushion and ced it for her when he saw Rong Dai turning to sit on the sofa.


    "Your body is weak now, and Meishu and the others going in and out carry bacteria."


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile wryly, but her heart felt warm. He had been ten times more attentive and considerate towards her.

 Chapter 343: A Repeat Offender

    <h4>Chapter 343</h4>


    After being coerced by Huo Shao Ting into drinking arge bowl of bird''s nest and a bowl of chicken soup, Rong Dai felt a little ufortable with a stuffed belly.


    Huo Shao Ting took this opportunity after washing up and changing into clean clothes. He held her in his arms lying on the hospital bed. After warming up his big hands, he gently massaged her belly.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t do anything out of line."


    "Although my wife you are very charming, your health is more important than anything. I don''t dare to joke about this kind of thing."


    Rong Dai was a little repulsive to his approach, worried that he could not restrain himself.


    But before she could react, Huo Shao Ting said seriously and solemnly into her ear.


    Rong Dai waspletely relieved and leaned against him. The couple watched the tablet together while she took the opportunity to tell Huo Shao Ting what Huo Mei Shu had told her.


    "Shao Ting, have someone investigate this matter clearly before doing anything, otherwise I''m worried it will hurt mom''s self-esteem."


    Huo Shao Ting responded and immediately called Zhang Assistant.


    The couple continued watching the tablet while Rong Dai did the assignments she had fallen behind on over the past few days.


    "I didn''t expect the prestigious Huo Group''s CEO is still a study master, and hasn''t forgotten all these years?"


    Rong Dai consulted Huo Shao Ting whenever she encountered difficulties with her assignments. Afterpleting her homework, she teased him with a smile.


    But before Huo Shao Ting could respond, Zhang Assistant''s phone call came in, ringing urgently.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned and answered the call.


    "Boss, that Yin Zhongjun you asked me to investigate is a habitual offender! I''ve sent the detailed information to your email."


    Because of their proximity, Rong Dai could hear very clearly as well.


    After hanging up the phone, Huo Shao Ting''s expression immediately became gloomy as he opened his phone''s email.


    It contained Yin Zhongjun''s personal information.


    The first half of the information was still rtively good, with a well-off family background and excellent moral conduct and academic performance.


    However, since high school, his family business had already been on the decline.


    Eventually, after the family business went bankrupt, he went from a rich second generation to someone who barely got by.


    Yin Zhongjun couldn''t stand this kind of life. On top of that, he was handsome and middle-aged. Although he was poor all these years, the money he cheated was enough for him to livefortably.


    This person had only been in Shenjing for two months. Upon arrival, he targeted mother-inw.


    The information also showed that many of their former ssmates had been deceived by him, but they had lost contact for decades.


    Furthermore, being deceived like this was extremely embarrassing, so naturally no one broke it.


    This gave Yin Zhongjun a good opportunity.


    Rong Dai looked at this information, and she couldn''t help but feel a chill down her spine.


    Thinking of what Huo Mei Shu had told her today, if things were really as they imagined, then mother-inw...


    The consequences were unimaginable!


    "Shao Ting, I''m very safe in the hospital. Nothing will happen to me!"


    "Go find mom first. I''m worried she may really be under duress!"


    Rong Dai quickly sat up and pushed him to leave.


    Huo Shao Ting responded and got up from the bed. He leaned down and kissed her forehead, "Sleep if you are tired. I''ll be back after handling this."


    Rong Dai nodded and watched him rush out of the ward. She immediately called Huo Mei Shu.


    Shao Ting was only passionate towards her. Even if he cared about his mother-inw and despite the situation, he would notfort his mother-inw.


    Comforting and stabilizing mother-inw''s emotions was still up to little sister-inw.


    "Sister-inw..."


    Huo Mei Shu greeted her in a sleepy voice.


    "Mei Shu, there may really be something going on with mom. Let''s talk specificster."


    "Your brother has already gone over with people. I''m afraid mom will be emotionally unstable. Go over andfort her."


    Rong Dai was concise and to the point in conveying the situation.

 Chapter 344: A Nightmarish Experience

    <h4>Chapter 344</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting brought his men to the hotel room door where Yin Zhongjun was staying. His face was very gloomy.


    However, he was in no hurry to have the men smash down the door. Behind him followed two policemen who installed special devices on the guest room door.


    The voices speaking inside the room could be heard very clearly.


    "Slut! I was busy all night satisfying you, this promiscuous woman, and now you say you have no money?"


    "You are the wealthy wife of the Huo family. After so many years, how could you possibly not have money?!"


    "Lu Zheng, if you don''t take out money today, don''t think about leaving this room!"


    "I''m telling you, if you dare resist, I''ll expose your videos and scandals for the whole country to watch this wealthy wife seducing men!"


    Inside the room, Yin Zhongjun had woken up and found Lu Zheng still lying motionless on the floor.


    He had received four or five phone calls and several messages, all bank card notifications.


    The 100,000 he had just obtained yesterday was now all gone.


    There was no other option, his debts were too high, those 100,000 were merely a drop in the bucket.


    He had originally thought he could hook the big fish Lu Zheng and solve his debt problems.


    But he didn''t expect the first thing Lu Zheng would do upon waking today was to ask him to leave,pletely deviating from the pace he had envisioned.


    This made him very angry!


    And he couldn''t afford to provoke his debt collectors.


    Seeing Lu Zheng ying dead on the floor, he had nowhere to vent his anger and resentment towards her, so he beat and cursed her, even threatening her.


    Lu Zheng was beaten unconscious and then beaten awake again.


    In just one day, her body was already covered in ck and blue bruises.


    Forget the fact that after so many years of pampered luxury she had no ability to resist, a woman''s strength was innately mismatched against a man''s.


    Lu Zheng knew he was a demon.


    If she gave him money, it wouldn''t appease him but would only make him more brazen.


    Her heart felt deadened. Due to a momentarypse in judgement, in just this one day, she had undergone an ordeal akin to hell.


    "You''re dreaming! I won''t give this devil a single cent!"


    Lu Zheng spat out blood. Her seemingly delicate self was now erupting with astounding willpower.


    "Slut!"


    "I''ll show you what you deserve!"


    "I''ll ask onest time, will you give me money or not?"


    Yin Zhongjun viciously grabbed her hair and forcibly dragged her to the bedside, every bit the fiend!


    Lu Zheng was like a ragged doll, limply allowing him to drag her.


    When she saw the bedside table, she thought of the humiliations she had suffered and the grievances over so many years.


    In that moment, she thought of death.


    If she died, she would be free.


    She didn''t know where she found the strength, but she suddenly hurtled towards the bedside table!


    "So you want to die?"


    But she was grabbed by Yin Zhongjun, and her forehead only managed to crash and bleed.


    Seeing her actions enraged Yin Zhongjun even more!


    He hauled her up and pped her left and right until Lu Zheng nearly cked out.


    "Until I''m bored of ying with you and have obtained your fortune, dying is not a possibility!"


    "Didn''t you really like mest night? Weren''t you passionatest night? And now you''re pretending?"


    "If you hadn''t taken the initiative to throw yourself at mest night, do you think I could have seeded?"


    Yin Zhongjun shamelessly distorted the truth, threatening menacingly, wanting topletely destroy Lu Zheng''s willpower.


    In reality, Lu Zheng had already lost all her willpower.


    The shocking upheaval of this one day felt like a neverending nightmare!


    After Yin Zhongjun finished venting his anger, he tossed her aside at his feet, and sent a WeChat message to the contact saved as "Sugar Daddy".


    "Want one more bombshell? 200,000!"


    "Definitely explosive material, enough to ruin the Huo Family''s name!"

 Chapter 345: You Can鈥檛 Hit Me

    <h4>Chapter 345</h4>


    Yin Zhongjun''s WeChat contactbeled "Sugar Daddy" did not immediately reply to his message.


    After living a difficult life for over ten years, Yin Zhongjun had developed an impatient temperament.


    When he did not receive a reply, he cursed and looked at Lu Zheng lying on the ground with increasing contempt.


    "It''s all because of you, worthless woman! Why didn''t you do as I nned?!"


    "You were the one who liked me! And now I''ve satisfied you, yet you don''t want to pay?!"


    Yin Zhongjun''s abusive words were offensive. He acted shamelessly!


    Lu Zheng was powerless to resist. She couldn''t even cry.


    She had lived a smooth life, yet never expected this.


    How could she face others after this?


    Would she have to live in torment for the rest of her life?


    Outside, Huo Shao Ting signaled security to break down the door.


    The two policemen had already obtained evidence. Huo Shao Ting was always prudent.


    When the door was broken down, Yin Zhongjun shivered in fear.


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting appear with seven or eight security personnel and two policemen, he copsed on the ground.


    When Lu Zheng saw her eldest son, she thought of her shameful appearance and tears fell.


    "Mom!"


    Huo Mei Shu hurried over.


    Seeing Lu Zheng��s battered face, her eyes instantly turned red!


    "Why were you so foolish? Why didn''t you say something this morning?!"


    Huo Mei Shu felt both angry and heartbroken.


    Huo Shao Ting took off his suit jacket and handed it to her. Huo Mei Shu epted it and hurriedly wrapped it around Lu Zheng. Mother and daughter embraced and cried.


    "Have the medics take her away to examine her and keep a record," Huo Shao Ting coldly ordered.


    Lu Zheng bit her lip with tears rolling down silently.


    "Mom, don''t be scared, I''m here with you," Huo Mei Shu quickly wiped her tears and helped the medical staff get Lu Zheng onto a stretcher.


    "Brother, I''ll go with Mom to the hospital first," Huo Mei Shu said angrily as she passed Huo Shao Ting, "Don''t let this beast get away easily!"


    "The hospital records need to be done properly. If she refuses to cooperate, tell her that unless she wants this beast to remain free from punishment."


    Huo Shao Ting instructed coldly.


    Huo Mei Shu red furiously at Yin Zhongjun curled up in the corner, ashen-faced, and nodded heavily.


    She should have noticed earlier today.


    But now it was toote.


    After Lu Zheng and her daughter left, the lights in the hotel room were brightly lit.


    The two policemen finished collecting evidence and left. The security staff reinstalled the broken door and tidily stood guard outside the room.


    Huo Shao Ting stared sinisterly at Yin Zhongjun, still recalling those hateful words.


    His expression was cold as he walked toward Yin Zhongjun, loosening the buttons of his white shirt.


    Yin Zhongjun trembled in fear, looking at him in horror, "Don''te near me. You can''t hit me. That would be against thew..." Before he could finish, Huo Shao Ting punched him in the cheek!


    Yin Zhongjun wailed miserably in pain.


    Two mrs flew out, hitting the ground loudly. Half of his face swelled up like a pig''s head!


    "Against thew?" Huo Shao Ting grabbed his cor as if carrying a dead pig and kicked fiercely at his abdomen!


    Having undergone professional training, he knew how to punish someone without taking their life, but make them truly understand bone-deep pain!


    Yin Zhongjun turned ashen-faced, unable to make a sound from the agony.


    "Scum like you speaks to me ofwbreaking?"


    "How dare youy hands on my mother?!"


    Huo Shao Ting was extremely cold, raining blows on Yin Zhongjun like raindrops.


    Yin Zhongjun could only wail, powerless to resist.


    Ten minutester, Yin Zhongjuny limply. His whole body was wracked with intense pain!


    Just then, Yin Zhongjun��s phone on the bed buzzed. Huo Shao Ting nced over. Since the chat interface was still open, he could see the message clearly.


    "Come in," he flexed his fist to loosen it and signaled for the two bodyguards outside to enter.

 Chapter 346: Put it in and pull it out.

    <h4>Chapter 346</h4>


    The two bodyguards picked Yin Zhongjun up and made him kneel steadily on the ground.


    Huo Shao Ting was looking through his phone and saw a contactbeled "Sugar Daddy" had transferred 200,000 to him.


    "Will you tell me yourself? Or should I investigate?"


    "If you tell me yourself, perhaps I can send you to the police station sooner, where it''d be better than being here with me."


    His voice was icy and sinister.


    Despite his dizzy, swollen head, Yin Zhongjun heard him loud and clear.


    He didn''t want to go to jail or be caught by Huo Shao Ting.


    It was all because that slut Lu Zheng didn''t cooperate with him!


    If she had obediently taken out money, how could he have beaten her?


    "It seems you''re not convinced."


    Huo Shao Ting sneered coldly and signaled to the bodyguards to make their move.


    Yin Zhongjun had already been roughed up once all over. Now everywhere on his body ached.


    These were professionally trained men. Each blow was particrly painful, yet he couldn''t pass out!


    Huo Shao Ting ignored him and had his men restore all the chat history between Yin Zhongjun and the "Sugar Daddy" contact.


    "Where''s the video?"


    Seeing Yin Zhongjun still unwilling to talk, Huo Shao Ting took a pair of pliers from one of the bodyguards.


    "What...what are you going to do? Ah!"


    Yin Zhongjun looked at him approaching in horror, body shivering uncontrobly.


    Soon his screams became exceptionally blood-curdling.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the pliers covered in bloody teeth and said ominously, "I''ll ask once more. For each time you don''t answer, I''ll yank out a tooth."


    "When your teeth are gone, nexte the fingernails."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll also make sure you enter the police station intact for interrogation. The Huo family has enough money for that."


    "Once it''s fitted, next tooth gets yanked."


    Yin Zhongjun looked at him in horror, as if staring at the face of death.


    He trembled all over. Huo Shao Ting took the chance to ask him again.


    Another shriek filled the room!


    Over the past few years, Yin Zhongjun had fooled and swindled people, making him ruthless.


    So his willpower was rtively strong, but it dispersed like dust before Huo Shao Ting.


    In less than an hour, he had confessed everything cleanly.


    Including all the people he had scammed over the years and whose information he still had. He remembered it all clear as day.


    "Mr. Huo...I know I was wrong! Please spare me..."


    Yin Zhongjun knelt on the ground bawling, mouth full of blood dripping down continuously in red strings.


    He was whistling badly through the gaps, but was still understandable.


    "I really didn''t dare make moves on Zheng...Lu Zheng before. But two months ago I added someone."


    "He transferred me 2 million upfront and back, and said I could get another 500,000 after finishing the job."


    "Plus...Lu Zheng must have money. So I got tempted."


    "This really wasn''t my scheme. Even if you gave me ten guts I wouldn''t have dared!"


    "It was because the debt collectors were too vicious! Please don''t send me to the police station, or else I''m done for..."


    Yin Zhongjun wept pitifully, trembling as he exined and begged not to be delivered into the police station.


    Huo Shao Ting already got what he wanted and ignored his pleas, ordering the bodyguards to gag the man and haul him off to the authorities.


    Seeing this pig-headed version of Yin Zhongjun, even Lu Hong couldn''t help but twitch his face. Wasn''t this beating too savage?


    But given Huo Shao Ting''s personality, leaving the guy alive and in one functioning piece to dump at the station was already quite courteous.


    "Get medical to treat him first. I''ll personally interrogateter."


    With his aunt at stake, he didn''t dare be careless.


    Upon realizing he was delivered into police custody, Yin Zhongjun''s heart turned to ash.


    Just earlier he had been cursing Lu Zheng. Now he cursed that anonymous "Sugar Daddy," full of regret.


    If he could make a move on Lu Zheng, he would''ve acted long ago. Why wait until now?

 Chapter 347: By Her Account

    <h4>Chapter 347</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu apanied Lu Zheng to the hospital for an examination, and saw the purple and blue bruises all over Lu Zheng''s body.


    Moreover, Lu Zheng was a little absent-minded. Huo Mei Shu couldn''t help but go out to the hallway to muffle her sobs.


    Lying on the hospital bed receiving the examination, Lu Zheng was like a puppet without a soul. Thinking back on the scenes fromst night, as well as the torment and encounters today, all of this felt to her like she had just walked through hell and back.


    Rong Dai was alone at the hospital, unable to sleep from worry, so she called Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu quickly wiped away her tears, her voice hoarse: "Hello, sister-inw..."


    Hearing the hoarse voice of her young aunt-inw, Rong Dai felt her heart drop. She knew things must be extremely terrible.


    "How is mother?"


    She cautiously inquired.


    Huo Mei Shu sniffled, originally wanting to steady her emotions, but unable to hold back from crying out.


    Listening to her young aunt-inw''s broken sobs, Rong Dai also felt her heart sink.


    In fact, when her young aunt-inw told her about this matter earlier, she had already expected as much.


    A lone man and woman, drinking alcohol together.


    With them sharing a room, how could something not happen?


    If it was consensual for mother-inw, that would be fine.


    But things actually took such a turn!


    A habitual fraudster, using memories from their youth to sway mother-inw.


    Someone like mother-inw is easily deceived.


    For mother-inw, this is simply a blow!


    If mother-inw can''t move past this herself, then the second half of her life will be ruined!


    Rong Dai was also anxious. She thought that her own health had recovered quite a bit, although she still needed recuperation.


    But her young aunt-inw was alone apanying mother-inw at the hospital, so she really couldn''t help but worry.


    "Sister-inw, you focus on resting, I can handle things alone here..." Upon hearing Rong Dai''s inquiry, Huo Mei Shu shook her head while wiping away tears.


    "Mother cares a lot about face. With something like this happening, if too many peoplee, I''m afraid she''ll be even more averse to the examination."


    Huo Mei Shu exined in one sentence.


    Hearing her young aunt exin in this way, Rong Dai also had no argument, only instructing her to pay attention to mother-inw''s emotions before hanging up.


    That entire night, Rong Dai was unable to fall asleep at all, until Huo Shao Ting finally returned at 3 AM.


    "Shao Ting."


    Seeing him return, she immediately got out of bed to pour him a cup of warm water.


    Seeing his gloomy expression, Rong Dai pursed her lips without asking much.


    "Someone instructed Yin Zhongjun to get close to her. All of the perpetrator''s information is overseas,pletely outside the country."


    "The news of your hospitalization was tricked out of mother. I''ve already sent people to investigate, we should have news soon."


    She didn''t ask, but Huo Shao Ting took the initiative to exin.


    Rong Dai felt a chill in her heart.


    The other party had set up such an borate trap solely to target her, and implicated mother-inw because of her.


    "Shao Ting, I didn''t know this would bring such great harm to mother. I..."


    Although she hadn''t gone to see mother-inw, based on her young aunt-inw''s tone, things were clearly not simple.


    She felt extremely guilty inside.


    She also truly could not understand, just who exactly this was.


    Who hated her so much, to such an extent?


    To expend such effort designing against her, just to ruin her?


    "This isn''t your fault, don''t me yourself."


    Huo Shao Ting held her hand, looking at her with an exceptionally serious gaze.


    If it weren''t for those people harboring evil intentions, wanting to harm others, how could they have used such vicious and despicable means?


    "How is mother now?"


    Rong Dai lowered her head, very uneasy inside.


    "Recuperating in the hospital. Once she''s recovered a bit, I''ll send her overseas."


    Huo Shao Ting said while pulling her into his embrace.

 Chapter 348: TK Materials

    <h4>Chapter 348</h4>


    Rong Dai was silent and did not respond to him.


    She knew that for her mother-inw, Huo Shao Ting''s arrangement was the best.


    Since someone was manipting this matter from behind the scenes, even if they tried to cover it up in time, it would bepletely toote.


    Especially since Yin Zhongjun was a habitual offender, sooner orter all these things would be made public.


    With her mother-inw''s personality, she would absolutely not be able to ept it.


    Staying in China would only cause greater mental distress for her mother-inw.


    "But will mom agree?"


    A few secondster, she still hesitated and asked.


    It was known that her mother-inw was used to being pampered all her life. She was fortunate this generation, but also unfortunate.


    Her husband passed away early, although she lived in luxury, there were still some things that money could not rece.


    Moreover, her mother-inw had been revolving around the Huo Family all her life, persisting from a young age until now. Having her live alone overseas, would her mother-inw be able to ept that?


    "I will handle this matter properly, you don''t need to worry too much."


    "Your task now is to focus on recovering your health and getting ample rest."


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead gently, his voice filled with tenderness.


    His heart was as clear as a mirror.


    No matter what conspiracy the other party had devised, if his mother had not taken the bait, could she have fallen for it?


    If this had happened in another family, perhaps the son would not have been so reasonable.


    He would have med everything on Rong Dai.


    But Huo Shao Ting understood very clearly that it was because his mother''s mind was not bright enough that she fell for the scheme.


    A few sweet wordsbined with the stirrings of youthful passion, and she had lost all sense of direction.


    Other than deceiving her, who else could be deceived in this family?


    However, even though this was the case, Yin Zhongjun would likely spend the rest of his life behind bars.


    Not only would Huo Shao Ting not let him off, just the Lu Family alone could make a social scumbag like Yin Zhongjun suffer a great deal!


    "It''s gettingte, you should rest early."


    Seeing that he looked tired, Rong Dai nced at the clock on the wall and urged him.


    The couple then went back to lie on the hospital bed. Rong Dai did not sleep well that night. By the time she woke up, Huo Shao Ting was no longer by her side.


    "Sister Nianzhi? When did you get here?"


    When Rong Dai opened her eyes, she saw Lu Nianzhi sitting on the sofa, head lowered as she looked at her tablet, her brows rxed, evidently because there was good news.


    Hearing her voice, Lu Nianzhi got up from the sofa and walked over to sit on the chair next to the hospital bed, then handed the tablet over for her to see.


    "Here''s what you asked for. If I hadn''t seen these data with my own eyes, I would have doubted that you were holding some ckmail material on TK. Otherwise, why would you have asked me to investigate?"


    Lu Nianzhi was in a good mood.


    Rong Dai looked at the data on the tablet. This was exactly what she had previously asked Lu Nianzhi to get her overseas friends to investigate - information on TK.


    Her guess was indeed correct. Among TK''s top executives, there were indeed people who were very unfriendly towards China.


    "Not only have the vast majority of TK''s senior management made unfriendly remarks about China in the past, they have also participated in many activities that supported people with ill intentions to undermine our country''s sovereignty and territorial integrity."


    "Although they deleted the remarks very promptly, the activities they participated in cannot be erased. I had screenshots taken of those videos and made into a PPT."


    "Your spection was not wrong either. Due to the decisions made by its top management and their arrogant and self-important mindset, TK has seemed to sit steadily on its throne for many years."


    "But starting three years ago, their market value has been shrinking continuously."


    "Of course, the skinny camel is still bigger than the horse. The quarterly financial statements TK publishes are not truthful. TK''s value has shrunk drastically."


    Lu Nianzhi analyzed for her. She had not expected TK''s value to have shrunk so drastically.

 Chapter 349: The TK Show is Over

    <h4>Chapter 349</h4>


    "That''s why TK had no choice but to turn its sights to the China market. I bought this information at great expense, by bribing TK''s internal employees."


    "TK is currently in a period where the two heirs apparent are vying for power, so it''s very easy to get things like this done."


    "I''ve had trusted people verify it, it''s confirmed urate."


    "But I suggest Brother Huo send people to investigate again, even though I''ve umted some connections overseas myself over the years."


    "But to be prudent, it''s better to have Brother Huo check again."


    "After all, whatever we can think of, the other side may have considered too. What if they''ve set a trap for us?" Lu Nianzhi reminded her.


    Rong Dai nodded, asking her to forward the information to Huo Shao Ting''s work email.


    "Any news on Brother Long?"


    Thinking of her mother-inw''s matter, though seemingly unrted to these other things, they were actually connected after careful consideration.


    She was kidnapped just to make her miss the fashion show.


    Her mother-inw was schemed against for the purpose of extracting information and damaging her reputation.


    The other side went through such effort, it was no longer just some despicable tactic, but breaking thew!


    Lu Nianzhi sighed and shook her head: "This person is as if he never existed. I''ve got no more means on my end, we''ll have to see what Brother Huoes up with."


    Rong Dai nodded, not surprised by this oue.


    If the other side could be found so easily, Shengjing''s social media would have explodedst night!


    But the deeper they hid, the more it showed they still feared the Huo Family greatly.


    That is to say, the other side still only had enough ability to y these nasty tricks under the table. They knew their own limits beyond that.


    "TK''s final showst night was very sessful. They''re holding a celebratory banquet three dayster, and all the big name guests from the shows have been invited."


    Lu Nianzhi didn''t mention Lu Zheng''s matter, but continued talking about TK.


    "That would be great if we make it in time. The celebratory banquet..."


    Rong Dai felt some regret.


    With just this information they currently held, although it was enough to prevent TK from entering the China market.


    But they hadn''t found the other hidden hand behind this. If they startled the snake now, it would be even harder to uncover them in the future.


    "All we can do now is wait."


    Lu Nianzhi was also a bit helpless.


    After finishing talking about work matters, Rong Dai returned the tablet to her before bringing up her mother-inw''s matter.


    "Sister Nianzhi, with my current physical condition, there''s only Mei Shu taking care of my aunt by herself."


    "With something like this happening, I know my aunt''s personality would not take it well."


    "Let the matters of the studio rest for now, please go over to help however you can, thanks for your hard work."


    Seeing her bring this up, Lu Nianzhi couldn''t help but sigh again.


    "For someone like Aunt who was protected so well by the whole family..."


    Rong Dai didn''t say anything further, but she had to admit inwardly there was truth to those words.


    "I didn''t know Aunt had met with Yin Zhongjun, otherwise this would never have happened."


    "Aunt liked him in high school, but you know what came after."


    "The entire Yin Family immigrated overseas, and Aunt''s secret crush came to nothing."


    "Along with it being an arranged marriage, Uncle treated Aunt very well too, so she let it go."


    Lu Nianzhi slowly recounted with a sigh.


    "From my years overseas, I learned some things about the Yin Family''s situation. Because they cut corners resulting in major casualties..."


    "The Yin Family went bankrupt overnight. Yin Zhongjun was their only descendant left. I don''t know what methods they used to protect him."


    "I was quite shocked learning this news at the time. After all, the Yin Family was prominent in Shengjing back then too."


    "Aunt always resisted remarrying, so I never told her about this. Who knew this would happen."

 Chapter 350: The Spirit Is Stimulated

    <h4>Chapter 350</h4>


    ��My mom has also been busy attending those prestigious family gatherings recently, and the matters with the studio have been basically settled,�� said Rong Dai.


    ��Once we get through this period, we��ll be able to start working,�� she added.


    ��Then you take good rest. I��m going to the hospital to see,�� said Lu Nianzhi.


    After chatting with her for a while, Lu Nianzhi left.


    Rong Dai was filled withplex emotions, once again witnessing the evil in human nature.


    Although she had seen such things countless times in her previous life, when it happened in this life, it was still just as cruel.


    She could even imagine the despair Huo Mei Shu��s mother-inw must have felt, just like she had felt upon learning the truth in her previous life.


    The person she had cherished in her heart, her ray of moonlight and goodness, had decayed without her even realizing, bing vicious!


    As Rong Dai pondered these things, she didn��t feel right calling her little sister-inw. She browsed Weibo on her phone for a while before starting to study.


    Lu Nianzhi rushed to the hospital where Lu Zheng was staying.


    Pushing open the door, she saw the bruises on Lu Zheng''s face were still very noticeable. Her eyes stared woodenly at the ceiling.


    Huo Mei Shu sat on the sofa, eyes fixed intently on Lu Zheng. She wiped tears from time to time.


    ��Mei Shu,�� said Lu Nianzhi softly.


    Huo Mei Shu snapped back to herself and got up to walk out of the room.


    ��Sister Nianzhi...�� said Huo Mei Shu. Her eyes were red and swollen.


    Lu Nianzhi took some tissues out of her bag and handed them to her.


    ��Don��t be too upset. The bad guys will definitely be punished,�� said Lu Nianzhi.


    ��How is Auntie now?��


    Dabbing her tears, Huo Mei Shu shook her head. ��Her mind is greatly shocked and she��s not well.��


    ��Just now when uncle and them came, I didn��t let them in, afraid it would disturb her.��


    ��Now when she sees medical staff she panics badly. I��m the only one who can talk to her at all, but at most a sentence or two.��


    Lu Nianzhi sighed softly and patted Huo Mei Shu gently on the back.


    ��You haven��t eaten yet, right? And didn��t get any proper restst night either.��


    ��Go home, get washed up, change into clean clothes and eat something. I��ll stand watch here.��


    ��I won��t speak and disturb her. I��ll just stay here.��


    Huo Mei Shu was indeed hungry and tired. Her clothes were stained with Lu Zheng��s blood and she felt very ufortable all over.


    ��But...�� said Huo Mei Shu.


    ��We��re all family. Although I haven��t been in the country these past few years, you guys have been my rtives all this time. Can��t you trust me?�� said Lu Nianzhi with a smile, stroking her hair.


    ��Sister Nianzhi, I didn��t mean it that way. I��m just worried if my mom loses control...�� said Huo Mei Shu, hurriedly shaking her head.


    ��Little girl, do you think your Sister Nianzhi was fooling around all those years abroad?�� interrupted Lu Nianzhi. ��Hurry back and get some rest. Come relieve me this afternoon.��


    Huo Mei Shu didn��t hesitate anymore and left the hospital.


    After she��d gone, Lu Nianzhi entered the ward and tiptoed over to sit by Lu Zheng��s bed to look at her.


    Seeing Lu Zheng nowpletely devoid of life, she couldn��t help but ache for her.


    But she didn��t dare speak, afraid of disturbing Lu Zheng.


    She sat there quietly for almost half an hour. Then Lu Nianzhi felt a sudden churning in her abdomen. The pain made her break out in a cold sweat.


    She hurried to the bathroom and saw the crimson patch. She took some toilet paper to clean up first.


    Coming out of the bathroom, she checked herself in the mirror and luckily her clothes weren��t stained.


    ��Auntie, I��m going downstairs to buy some sanitary pads. Just stay nicely in bed, don��t go anywhere okay?�� said Lu Nianzhi, enduring the pain and coaxing Lu Zheng as if she were a child.

 Chapter 351: It鈥檚 All because of Yung Dai

    <h4>Chapter 351</h4>


    Lu Zheng didn''t make a sound, her eyes still staring nkly at the ceiling, unblinking.


    Lu Nianzhi sucked in her breath from the pain, and along with the overwhelming sensation, she couldn''t wait for Lu Zheng''s reply. Clutching her phone, she went downstairs.


    But not long after Lu Nianzhi left, Huo Linjing came in.


    She walked to Lu Zheng''s hospital bed with a mocking expression on her face, looking at her tauntingly.


    "Aunt, I didn''t expect that at your old age, you''d want a sunset romance!"


    "Tsk, tsk, tsk, I''m really impressed!"


    "I thought that old geezer would set up a chastity memorial archway for you!"


    "Didn''t expect you''d also have lonely and empty moments, Aunt!"


    "Drinking at night, meeting with an old lover, identally getting burned, and ending up like this."


    "Tsk, Aunt, I really admire you now!"


    Huo Linjing didn''t care at all about Lu Zheng''s feelings or mental state. Every word was meant to provoke her.


    Lu Zheng''s previously empty eyes slowly came into focus, bing agitated and furious!


    "No, I''m not like that!"


    "It wasn''t voluntary!"


    She screamed in terror and anger, tears streaming down her face.


    Seeing Lu Zheng like this, Huo Linjing retreated several steps wisely and stood far away.


    "Not voluntary? The surveince footage shows it clearly!"


    "Aunt, I don''t mean to criticize you."


    "If you were lonely and wanted a man, why didn''t you just say it!"


    "Niece knows many young and handsome guys. With your appetite, satisfying you would definitely not be a problem!"


    "Why bother finding some old lover? Tsk, tsk, didn''t expect you to be so sentimental, Aunt!"


    "I just wonder if myte uncle knows about this in the afterlife. Will hee to you in your dreams to question you?"


    "You''ve betrayed myte uncle. He treated you so well when he was alive."


    Huo Linjing''s mouth cked open and closed rapidly as she bombarded Lu Zheng violently with words!


    "All these years, you were actually still thinking about that Yin Zhongjun. Myte uncle would be heartbroken if he knew!"


    "Can you face myte uncle?"


    "No wonder you didn''t want to remarry and insisted on being a chaste widow. Turns out you were waiting for your old lover!"


    "Tsk, tsk, Aunt, your taste in men is really bad! I feel sorry for you!"


    Hearing this, Lu Zheng became more and more agitated. After the nightmare she had experienced, her mental state was already very unstable.


    And Huo Linjing''s constant prodding was like wrecking her will!


    "Stop saying that! I didn''t betray Jing Zhi!"


    Lu Zheng hugged her head, her face covered in tears, shaking her head wildly and screaming agonizingly!


    "Tsk, tsk, Aunt, you probably don''t know yet?"


    "My good big brother Huo Shao Ting deliberately kept it from you, all to protect his gorgeous wife Rong Dai. He doesn''t even recognize you as his mother!"


    Seeing her freaking out but not panicking herself, Huo Linjing was in fact very happy and satisfied.


    "You''re lying! My son would never do that!" Lu Zheng roared!


    "Don''t you know yourself how Huo Shao Ting treats you as his mother? Don''t you know?"


    "I asked about it at the police station on purpose. That Yin Zhongjun was bribed by someone."


    "The original n was to use him to conquer you and get information about Rong Dai from your mouth."


    "Look, if not for Rong Dai, could you have suffered such humiliation?"


    Huo Linjing continued fanning the mes!


    If their family doesn''t have good days, the Huo family led by Huo Shao Ting won''t have good days either!


    Especially that slut Rong Dai, she would definitely not let her off easy!

 Chapter 352: She Hates Yung Dai

    <h4>Chapter 352</h4>


    "Auntie, to tell the truth, I really feel sorry for you! I really think you don''t deserve this!" Huo Linjing pretended to be grieved as she said.


    "Just take a look, Rong Dai is hospitalized and the whole family is gathered around taking care of her."


    "But you? It''s cold and empty here, and I''m the only one who came to see you."


    "Although that Yin Zhongjun is very hateful, Rong Dai is even more hateful!" She continued to instigate Lu Zheng.


    Lu Zheng listened in a daze, and also stopped her screaming.


    "You see, if it wasn''t for Rong Dai herself being overly ambitious and always wanting to stand out and make enemies everywhere, would her unborn baby be lost?"


    "She didn''t even know she was pregnant, how can you me others for the miscarriage?"


    "If she wasn''t hospitalized, you wouldn''t have gone to see her and this wouldn''t have happened to you, would it?"


    "Auntie, you are just too kind, too easy to talk to."


    "That''s why Rong Dai takes advantage of you so easily, and tters Grandma well, yet you have been married into the Huo family for so many years, and Uncle passed away early too."


    "To put it bluntly, even if there''s no credit, there''s hard work!"


    "But none of them remembers that! Now the whole family sticks together, but you are an outsider, Auntie!"


    Huo Linjing spoke rapidly, ncing at her watch for the time. Seeing Lu Zheng''s dazed appearance, a sh of deeper meaning crossed her eyes.


    Let''s see how you can keep up the act this time, Rong Dai!


    You ruined my happiness, so don''t expect to have it easy!


    "Oh, why am I telling you all this!"


    "Nevermind, just forget what I said, Auntie. I have to get back to work now."


    After speaking, she picked up her handbag contentedly and left the ward.


    Lu Zheng stood barefoot on the cold floor, her face nk.


    Huo Linjing''s words kept swirling in her mind: It''s all because of Rong Dai!


    That''s right!


    It''s all because of her!


    Because she was overly ambitious, she got schemed against and nearly drowned.


    Because her health was weak, she couldn''t keep her grandchild, so she had to be hospitalized.


    She went to the hospital to see Rong Dai, so Mother-In-Law disliked her and her children disliked her.


    She was in a bad mood and wanted to go out for a couple of drinks.


    If it wasn''t for all this, she wouldn''t have met Yin Zhongjun, and none of these things would have happened!


    The more Lu Zheng thought about it, the clearer that voice in her heart became!


    Her face grew colder and colder, her eyes full of resentment and anger!


    This is all because of Rong Dai!


    If she had been virtuous andpetent, staying at home serving her husband and teaching her children, this family would have been peaceful.


    Thinking this way, Lu Zheng suddenly realized that she had been very dissatisfied with this daughter-inw all along.


    Then she thought of how Mother-In-Law had handed over the housekeeper''s authority to Rong Dai, directly denying her authority and recognizing Rong Dai instead.


    And the division of family property, Mother-In-Law had given almost all of it to Rong Dai!


    There were many other trivial details that became extremely clear in Lu Zheng''s mind at that moment!


    Huo Linjing''s provocation had seeded in making Lu Zheng resent Rong Dai!


    "Auntie, why are you standing barefoot on the floor?"


    When Lu Nianzhi came back after buying sanitary pads, as soon as she entered, she saw Lu Zheng standing barefoot on the floor and quickly put down her things to help her back into bed.


    Lu Zheng didn''t make a sound, she justy stiffly in bed.


    Lu Nianzhi hurried into the bathroom.


    When she came out, Lu Zheng was sitting up in bed, looking at her somewhat sinisterly.


    Lu Nianzhi was almost scared to death by her gaze. "Auntie, why are you looking at me like this...is something the matter?"


    "Are you hungry? I''ll order some food for you."


    Lu Zheng shook her head, her pursed lips taking a few seconds to say: "I want to go out for a walk. Staying here makes me want to jump off the building."


    Lu Nianzhi was so frightened by these words that her heart almost jumped out!


    "Okay, okay, I''ll go downstairs with you for a walk, but let''s get dressed properly first."

 Chapter 353: Hit Rong Dai

    <h4>Chapter 353</h4>


    A few minutester, Lu Nianzhi supported the heavily bundled up Lu Zheng downstairs to take a walk. The sunshine at this time was very warm, and many patients were out for a walk.


    Lu Zheng sat quietly on the chair, not walking, just sitting there in a daze.


    Her gaze suddenly fell on the steamed stuffed bun shop across the street. She raised her hand and pointed to Lu Nianzhi, "Nianzhi, I want to eat that. Go buy it and bring it back for me. I''ll wait here for you."


    Lu Nianzhi hesitated a little. After all, Lu Zheng had just said something about taking her own life, which forced her to be vignt.


    "Go quickly, I''ll wait right here for you."


    Lu Zheng urged her, and her face sank instantly.


    Afraid of affecting her mood, Lu Nianzhi hurriedly nodded and took her bag to cross the street when the traffic light turned green, to buy buns for Lu Zheng.


    Lu Zheng watched her every move. When the green light turned red and Lu Nianzhi was looking at the road, she stood up and walked to the edge of the road to stop a ck car.


    When Lu Nianzhi came back with the buns, Lu Zheng was nowhere to be seen!


    She was scared stiff!


    She hurriedly asked the patients who were out for a walk. Someone even remembered the license te number. She quickly hailed a cab to chase after them!


    All the way, Lu Zheng arrived at the hospital where Rong Dai was staying. She took off the gemstone ring on her hand and threw it to the driver, "Keep the change."


    The driver was puzzled, wondering if it was real or fake. But Lu Zheng had already gotten out of the car. She still remembered which room Rong Dai was in and went straight upstairs.


    The bodyguards standing at the door recognized her, so they did not stop her.


    But Lu Zheng kicked the door of the ward!


    Bang!


    The door of the ward was suddenly kicked open. Rong Dai and Huo Mei Shu inside were both frightened.


    Huo Mei Shu had originally wanted to go back to the Huo residence, but was afraid she couldn''t keep the matter to herself.


    So she thought about going to Rong Dai''s ce. The suite was next door to Rong Dai''s ward.


    She had bought a change of clothes from a shopping mall near the hospital and came over. She was talking to Rong Dai when she saw Lu Zheng''s sudden anger!


    "Mom?"


    Huo Mei Shu called out to her in confusion and quickly walked over to try to support her.


    "Don''t touch me! I''m not your mother! Rong Dai is your mother!"


    Lu Zheng''s face was full of anger. She pped away the hand Huo Mei Shu had stretched out!


    Her daughter was still with her at the hospital a second ago. In a blink, she went to her daughter-inw.


    She couldn''t help but think of what Huo Linjing said: they were a real family, she was just an outsider.


    Huo Mei Shu''s face changed. She unconsciously nced at Rong Dai sitting on the hospital bed and held back her anger, "Mom, what nonsense are you talking about? Rong Dai is my sister-inw."


    "Humph! I don''t have such an unfilial daughter like you!"


    Lu Zheng scanned her indifferently, then walked over to Rong Dai.


    Huo Mei Shu hurriedly followed her in small quick steps.


    "Mom, your health is not..."


    p!


    Rong Dai was also wondering why her mother-inw had burst into the hospital in such an aggressive manner.


    But before she could finish speaking, her face was pped hard.


    It was pped by mother-inw Lu Zheng.


    "Mom! Are you crazy! Why did you hit my sister-inw?"


    Huo Mei Shu was greatly frightened and quickly grabbed her hand!


    "B*tch! It''s all because of you that I was humiliated like this!"


    "If it wasn''t for you beingpetitive and trying to outdo others everywhere, offending people and getting yourself injured, how could I have lost my grandson?"


    "If you weren''t hospitalized, why would I havee to see you?"


    "If not..."


    "How could I have encountered that devil?!"


    "This is all your fault!"


    Lu Zheng stared at her angrily and hatefully, speaking very harshly! She almost repeated everything Huo Linjing had said to her!


    She felt extremely relieved in her heart! A sense of revenge!


    The grievances she had suppressed for so many years finally found an outlet!

 Chapter 354: Still Want to Hit Her

    <h4>Chapter 354</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu could hardly believe that such words woulde out of her own mother''s mouth!


    She was both shocked and angry, and hurriedly hugged Lu Zheng to prevent her from getting close to Rong Dai.


    "Mom! What nonsense are you talking about!? What does my sister-inw have to do with this?!"


    "Who did you hear this nonsense from?!"


    Lu Zheng did not struggle either, ring at Rong Dai resentfully!


    As if Rong Dai was the one who caused her misfortune.


    Rong Dai was pped so suddenly that her cheek was sore and swollen, and the taste of blood was lingering in her mouth.


    In her two lifetimes, even when she was imprisoned, no one had ever dared to p her like this before.


    In this life, it seemed anyone dared to hit her in the face!


    Rong Dai was originally feeling a little guilty about her mother-inw''s situation.


    But Lu Zheng''s p wiped out that little bit of guilt she was feeling.


    She never owed her mother-inw anything!


    If she owed anyone, it would only be Huo Shaoting alone!


    Yes!


    Although her mother-inw was right that she had offended many people and attracted too much attention everywhere, was that what she wanted?


    To put it bluntly, if her mother-inw had not still harbored those feelings from her youth, could Yin Zhongjun have seeded?


    Her mother-inw was a poor judge of character. Even if Rong Dai herself was partly to me here.


    But if her mother-inw had not given others the opportunity, could this have happened?


    Her face darkened all of a sudden.


    "Sis...sister-inw, don''t be angry!"


    "Mom is just mentally unstable right now, so she''s talking nonsense. Don''t take it to heart!"


    Huo Mei Shu was extremely anxious, blocking her mother while trying to appease Rong Dai after seeing Rong Dai''s face turn gloomy.


    "You damned girl! Who are you helping? I''m your mother!"


    When Lu Zheng heard this, the anger in her heart red up again.


    Huo Mei Shu had never imagined that her mother, who looked weak and helpless, would have such great strength!


    Lu Zheng struggled free from her embrace. Huo Mei Shu, who had not rested well all night, suddenly lost her vision and staggered back a few steps before sitting down on the ground.


    "It''s because ever since you married into our Huo family, we have not had a moment of peace!"


    "I didn''t agree to let you in back then, but look at all the trouble you''ve caused since! "


    "Even I am implicated because of you! You are a broom star, a wicked woman!"


    Lu Zheng felt extremely wronged and irritated, and the more she scolded, the more vigorous she became!


    She finally understood why those shrews on the street were so spirited now - because venting felt so good!


    As she continued scolding, she even wanted to hit Rong Dai!


    But Rong Dai was on alert. That previous p was just her bad luck when she was caught off guard.


    But if Lu Zheng hit her again, it would be a reflection on Rong Dai''s ipetence!


    She reached out and grabbed Lu Zheng''s wrist. Her beautiful eyes were cold and sharp, and she exuded an awe-inspiring majesty!


    This was the majesty of a Queen that had prated deep into her soul for thest thirty years.


    Rong Dai got out of bed and stood up.


    "What...what are you trying to do? You can''t possibly want to hit me, your mother-inw too?!"


    Lu Zheng''s face changed. She felt somewhat intimidated but also irritated!


    Rong Dai held her wrist in an iron grip, forcing Lu Zheng to retreat several steps.


    "Sister-inw, calm down. Mom really didn''t mean it..."


    When Huo Mei Shu regained her vision and saw this scene, she was so frightened that her heart almost jumped out of her throat!


    Rong Dai nced at her before her gaze fell back on Lu Zheng.


    Her cheek was still hurting!


    "Mother, I respect you as an elder, as Shaoting''s mother, that''s why I call you mother."


    Rong Dai spoke slowly, every word full of majesty, exerting tremendous pressure.

 Chapter 355: I鈥檒l die if I don鈥檛 divorce you.

    <h4>Chapter 355</h4>


    "Sister-inw..."


    Huo Mei Shu was scared to death, but her legs were as heavy as if they were filled with lead, stunned by Rong Dai''s imposing manner!


    Lu Zheng''s face turned pale, also looking a little painful.


    Because Rong Dai was holding her wrist using clever force, she naturally hurt.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t hit her."


    Rong Dai nced at the young aunt, then fell back on Lu Zheng, her eyes unusually cold and cruel.


    Lu Zheng shuddered a little, but she was like being obsessed, deeply believing in Huo Linjing''s bewitching words!


    "Mrs. Lu, I don''t care who the loose-tongued gossipy woman has bewitched you, or if these are your true thoughts."


    "But I, Rong Dai, have done nothing to wrong you."


    "There is cause and effect to everything, I don''t mean to provoke you."


    "But this p, I, Rong Dai, is not something anyone can freely use their hand."


    Rong Dai was extremely cold, her tone very frosty when she spoke.


    "If you think I, Rong Dai, am not good enough for your Huo family, not good enough for your precious son, you can have him divorce me at any time."


    "This time I will let it slide because you are Huo Shao Ting''s mother, but if there is a next time..."


    Her gaze suddenly became sharper, full of majesty!


    "But if there is a next time, no matter if you are Lu Zheng or Huo Shao Ting''s mother, I will not be polite!"


    "Don''t think you can restrain me with filial piety, a mother has to be merciful first before a child can be filial."


    Rong Dai was fuming inside.


    The mother-inw had always been dissatisfied with her, this she knew very clearly.


    But she didn''t expect that the mother-inw would actually hit her!


    "I, Rong Dai, have never received your nurturing grace, I respect you only because I am Shao Ting''s wife, and you are his mother."


    "Aside from that, to me you are just a stranger."


    "Mrs. Lu, you had better remember what I just said."


    After Rong Dai finished speaking, she released her hand, but her eyes were still staring at her very coldly.


    Lu Zheng opened and closed her mouth, her face deathly pale, but she couldn''t get any words out.


    This cheap woman!


    She was her mother-inw!


    How dare she talk to an elder like that?!


    Lu Zheng was irritated inside, but Rong Dai''s imposing manner was really frightening, so she cowered.


    "Sis...Sister-inw, you..."


    Even Huo Mei Shu was frightened by Rong Dai''s actions, her heart gone cold halfway.


    So it turns out Big Sister-in-Law...sees their family this way.


    "Mei Shu, mom is ufortable, please take her away."


    Rong Dai knew very clearly what the young aunt was thinking, but she didn''t care.


    She knew clearly in her heart what she was doing.


    Huo Mei Shu responded, didn''t look at her, also didn''t say anything more to her. She went up to support Lu Zheng.


    "Let go of me!"


    "You unfilial girl! I''ve been bullied like this, and you don''t even know to help me?!"


    Unexpectedly, Lu Zheng took out her anger on Huo Mei Shu.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her in shock and disbelief: "Mom!"


    Her cry of "Mom" was anxious and angry, unable to believe it!


    "What''s wrong with you?! How have you be so unreasonable?!"


    She couldn''t help but yell!


    "I know very clearly what''s wrong with me! This woman must divorce your eldest brother!"


    Lu Zheng stood there unmoving, her face hard and determined, pointing at Rong Dai and saying.


    Huo Mei Shu practically wanted to cry, was this still her mom?


    She must be possessed! To even be able to say words like this!


    "You...you are simply being unreasonable!"


    "Call your big brother immediately and have hime see me!"


    "If he doesn''t divorce, then I''ll die right here for you to see!"


    Lu Zheng was like she was obsessed, sternly saying this and then sitting down heavily on the sofa, like a fossilized Buddha!

 Chapter 356: Who are You Dying to Read

    <h4>Chapter 356</h4>


    "Who are you going to die for?"


    As soon as Lu Zheng finished speaking, Huo Shao Ting walked in coldly from outside, his eyes icy as he looked at her and asked back.


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting appear, Rong Dai''s heart "thumped" heavily.


    He had probably already heard the words she had just said to her mother-inw.


    Oh well, since she had already said them, could she really erase their memories?


    "Big brother,e and advise mom, this is simply..."


    Huo Mei Shu seemed to see a savior and her tears rolled out instantly.


    Huo Shao Ting ignored her, his eyes falling on Rong Dai''s cheeks.


    Seeing her swollen and red cheeks, the bright red fingerprints were especially clear.


    "Why did you hit my wife?"


    He asked Lu Zheng coldly.


    When Lu Zheng met her son''s gloomy eyes, she suddenly felt like sitting on pins and needles, and her whole person suddenly deted like a popped balloon.


    "I..."


    Seeing the situation in front of her, Rong Dai thought it was absolutely awful!


    "Shao Ting, let her rest first. I want some quiet."


    Her mother-inw had hit quite hard, half her brain felt swollen.


    She was very clear about her mother-inw''s current state.


    She simply could not admit that this was her own mistake, unable to face the consequences she had brought about.


    That''s why she med it all on her, tofort herself and ease her own guilt.


    "Don''t pretend to be a good person here!"


    Who knew that as soon as she opened her mouth, Lu Zheng exploded like an ignited firecracker!


    Lu Zheng stared at her angrily and fiercely, then looked at Huo Shao Ting.


    She pointed at Rong Dai and said to him: "Shao Ting, mom wants you to divorce this woman!"


    Huo Mei Shu unconsciously held her breath, looking incredulously at the shrew-like woman in front of her who was her own mother.


    She simply could not believe that such unreasonable words had actuallye from her own mother''s mouth!


    "I have been with you for so many years, and now you marry a woman who ruins your mother''s reputation and makes the whole family uneasy!"


    "You must divorce this slut! Our Huo family can''t amodate this Buddha of hers!"


    This was the first time Lu Zheng dared to speak to Huo Shao Ting like this.


    Saying this made her feel extremelyfortable!


    This was her son, why shouldn''t she be able to talk to him like this?


    She was his mother!


    "Mei..."


    Lu Nianzhi rushed to the ward, about to call Huo Mei Shu, when she noticed the bizarre atmosphere in the ward.


    Huo Mei Shu hurried over in small steps, pulled her in, and closed the ward door.


    "What''s going on here?"


    Lu Nianzhi panted and exined, "Just now auntie insisted on going downstairs for a walk, so I apanied her down. Then she said she wanted to eat wonton soup, so I went to buy some."


    "When I looked back, she was gone. Fortunately someone saw her get into a car, so I rushed over."


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head with red eyes, whispering an exnation in her ear.


    After listening, Lu Nianzhi was tongue-tied, looking at Lu Zheng in disbelief.


    If not for the situation in front of her, she would not have believed what Huo Mei Shu had said.


    The whole family knew that this aunt had a weak will and was especially afraid of her eldest son Huo Shao Ting.


    How could she say such things?


    But the facts were right in front of her.


    "Anything else to say? I''ll give you a chance to exin clearly."


    Facing Lu Zheng, even his own mother, Huo Shao Ting was still as cold as ever.


    Although Lu Zheng was a little afraid in her heart, she thought that this was her son. Surely he wouldn''t bear to see her die in front of him?

 Chapter 357: Marry Yin Zhongjun

    <h4>Chapter 357</h4>


    "I don''t have anything to say. Mom has one request, divorce this woman!"


    Lu Zheng shook her head sincerely.


    Huo Shao Ting nced deeply at her and walked to Rong Dai''s side, raising his hand to touch her pped cheek.


    "Sss..."


    Rong Dai gasped and instinctively furrowed her brows.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze turned dark and cold as he held her delicate hand, then looked at Lu Zheng.


    "You are my biological mother, and I call you ''mom'' because of this fact."


    "You im that you have apanied me and worked hard for so many years, are you sure you have truly been there for me?"


    He coldly questioned Lu Zheng.


    Lu Zheng''s face went from pale to flushed, gradually bing irritated and panicky. She pointed at Rong Dai beside him and interrogated him.


    "Just for the sake of this woman, are you willing to give up on your mother?!"


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her coldly.


    "It is you who wants to destroy this family."


    "If you want to die, I can offer you several less painful ways to go."


    "After you die, I can give you a grand funeral."


    "Don''t think that just because you are my mother, you can use death to threaten me."


    His voice suddenly turned icy!


    "If you want to die, no one can stop you."


    "Don''t think I don''t know about what happened with Huo Linjing in the hospital."


    "Aren''t you supposed to care about this family? Now Second Master is determined to split thepany."


    "Do you really consider me your son?"


    "Since you like Huo Linjing so much, and you have no blood ties with the Huo family anyway, I can make Huo Jun divorce her, and you can marry him and be Huo Linjing''s mother. How about that?"


    If Zhang Assistant were present, he would not be surprised at all that Huo Shao Ting could say such ruthless and heartless words.


    Only those who have experienced bloodshed and cruelty possess such ability.


    "Big brother, how can you say such things?!"


    Huo Mei Shu was shocked and couldn''t believe that these two people, who were her closest kin, could utter such words!


    Are they still mother and son?


    How deep is their hatred!


    "You..."


    Lu Zheng staggered back, pointing at him with disbelief.


    "I have said that anyone who dares to harm my wife, I can disown them, including you."


    "Don''t think that by sparing my life, you can manipte me like a puppet in your hands."


    "I, Huo Shao Ting, have never been a filial person. Don''t attempt to suppress me with those worldly principles, it''s impossible."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke coldly, each word as chilling as ice!


    Lu Nianzhi was also shocked. She didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to say such things.


    Only Rong Dai, upon hearing these words, felt a sharp pain in her heart and instinctively tightened her grip on his hand.


    How much cruelty and indifference has he experienced? How much bloodshed and heartlessness has he witnessed to be so devoid of human emotions?


    But if he wasn''t so ruthless and heartless...


    Huo Corporation wouldn''t be under his leadership today.


    Huo Shao Ting also tightened his grip on her hand, knowing that she was the only one who could understand him.


    "I told you this many years ago."


    "You''re forcing me to divorce my wife by threatening to kill yourself today. Can I then force you to marry Yin Zhongjun by threatening to kill myself?"


    "If you were so unwilling to let go of your youthful first love, why did you marry into the Huo family in the first ce?"


    "If my wife is a jinx, what does that make you?"


    "Why does my dad have a car ident? You know better than anyone!"


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice suddenly grew louder, sharp with anger.


    His outburst startled the four women in the room.

 Chapter 358: Have You Forgotten

    <h4>Chapter 358</h4>


    "You, you..."


    Lu Zheng was scared pale, with horror in her eyes, and sat down on the sofa.


    "Big brother, you...what are you talking about?"


    Huo Mei Shu was shocked and full of doubts.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were icy cold. He had kept this matter deep in his heart for many years.


    Because of his father''s dying wish, he had never told anyone about it, including his wife Rong Dai.


    "This matter, dad entrusted me with it before he died."


    His tone became solemn.


    Lu Zheng looked panic-stricken, desperately wanting to stop him from continuing.


    "Big brother, I just heard that...mom? Why are you here?"


    Huo Shao Jie rushed over looking travel-worn, and was stunned seeing everyone in the room, looking at Huo Mei Shu puzzledly.


    "I was going to keep this bottled up, but today you forced me with death to get a divorce."


    "You didn''t give me any way out, forcing me to be an unfilial son who killed his mother. Mrs. Lu, I think you understand this matter better than anyone."


    "Shao Jie and Mei Shu are young and unclear about what happened back then, but I am clear."


    Huo Shao Ting changed how he addressed her, coldly not even calling her mom anymore.


    After so many years he was unable to feel close to this mother of his.


    Not only because he had long been used to being alone, but more importantly because of how his dad died.


    He couldn''t find it in himself to forgive.


    After so many years he had always been outstanding, fulfilling everything he promised his dad, only unable to do this one thing.


    "Today, I think they also have the right to know the truth."


    He continued to add, his words not as sharp as before, but still cold enough to chill one''s heart.


    "You...you know what, don''t say it! You can''t say!"


    Lu Zheng suddenly seemed to recall something important, desperately trying to stop Huo Shao Ting in a panic.


    But her legs were soft, she was flustered, unable to stand up.


    "You were able to force me to divorce, why can''t I speak?"


    Huo Shao Ting gave a cold mockingugh, looking at her with frigid eyes.


    "The day before dad''s ident, who did you go see, what did you do, have you forgotten?"


    He asked Lu Zheng.


    "I can help tell the story."


    "No! Shao Ting, it was mom''s mistake, I shouldn''t have forced you. Please don''t say it...Shao Jie and Mei Shu will hate me if you do."


    Lu Zheng pleadingly begged him, tears instantly rolling down her cheeks.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect things to unfold this way. Her heart was filled with curiosity but also turmoil.


    She pulled on Huo Shao Ting''s sleeve and lowered her voice, "Shao Ting, mom is mentally unstable right now. We can talk about this afterwards."


    Huo Shao Ting shook his head and looked at her. Seeing the p mark on her cheek, his voice took an exceptionally stern tone.


    "When outsiders previously hurt you, I had no control over their actions so I let it go."


    "But this person today is my birth mother. I can''t even protect you - what kind of decent husband am I?"


    "Also, I''m doing this not just because of you, but because of this family."


    "Big brother, what are you talking about?"


    Huo Shao Jie was bewildered, having no clue what had happened.


    Rong Dai feltplicated, but seeing Huo Shao Ting''s manner she also knew she wouldn''t be able to stop him.


    This matter was rted to Grandpa''s cause of death.


    And Grandpa had always been like a mountain range sheltering over Huo Shao Ting. Grandpa held tremendous weight in his heart.


    The intelligent Lu Nianzhi basically understood what had happened based on the context and her knowledge of events before and after, the moment Huo Shao Ting spoke.


    She feared Big Uncle''s car ident that day was no ident at all, and that Auntie was involved too.


    This really would bring the heavens crashing down!

 Chapter 359: The Death of Huo Jing

    <h4>Chapter 359</h4>


    ��Lu Zheng, mother begs you, don''t say anymore!��


    ��Things are not what they seem, really not what they seem! I, I was only tricked by him!��


    Lu Zheng naturally knew what Huo Shao Ting wanted to say.


    She had buried this secret in her heart for so many years, she didn''t dare mention half a word to anyone.


    She thought that as long as she didn''t say anything, as long as she wholeheartedly stayed in the Huo family, she could atone for her past sins.


    But she didn''t expect that her eldest son would actually know about this!


    She was even more surprised that he would mention it on such an asion!


    Lu Zheng pleaded with him, panicked and helpless in her heart!


    "The day before Dad died, you received a message from Huo Jun saying that he would tell you about Yin Zhongjun."


    Huo Shao Ting ignored her and revealed the secret that had been buried in his heart for so many years.


    "That day there were no other cars at home, so you took Dad''s car out."


    "Huo Jun made an excuse to drive the car away for half an hour before returning it. The next day when Dad drove the car again, the brakes failed and it crashed into a truck."


    "I witnessed Dad''s horrible state with my own eyes. He told me all this with his dying breath."


    "Because he knew you didn''t willingly marry him, and you had been investigating news about Yin Zhongjun all along."


    "He was fully aware that you met with Huo Jun."


    Huo Shao Ting said solemnly. The hospital room suddenly became so quiet you could hear a pin drop!


    "When you drove back that day, you already knew there was a problem with the brakes. Why didn''t you say anything?"


    "What wrong did Dad do to deserve such punishment from you?"


    "Wasn''t he good enough to you? Was there anything he didn''t readily agree to when you asked?"


    "You said you endured hardship to apany us three children, and didn''t want to remarry. That wasn''t because you didn''t want to, it was because you didn''t dare!"


    "You know what you did, betraying my dad!"


    When Huo Shao Ting spoke coldly, his entire body emanated a dreadful aura!


    "After so many years, the evidence has long vanished, and you could have denied everything."


    "But you know full well in your heart what happened."


    "You said my wife was a troublemaker, so what does that make you?"


    "Do you understand now why after so many years I still don''t want to be close to you? Should I spell it out even more clearly?!"


    "All these years, I''ve always remembered my dad''s words, bearing this secret for you. On what authority do you interfere in my life?"


    Huo Shao Ting angrily confronted her.


    Rong Dai waspletely stunned, she had never imagined things would turn out like this!


    She grabbed Huo Shao Ting��s hand tightly, knowing that he had lost control!


    She immediately went to stand in front of him and looked back at Huo Shao JIe and Huo Mei Shu.


    "Shao JIe, Mei Shu, Sister Lu Nianzhi, please send them back to the hospital first. Let��s talk about thingster, okay?"


    If Shao Ting kept talking like this, she was afraid he would lose control and attack physically!


    Even if the woman was his mother-inw and biological mother!


    Although she had never met Grandpa Huo, Grandpa and Shao Ting''s childhood photos were disyed in Shao Ting''s office and their current home.


    It was a pity there were no photos of teenage, adult or current Shao Ting with him.


    Grandpa Huo held an important ce in Shao Ting''s heart that even Old Madam Huo could notpare to.


    Huo Shao JIe and Huo Mei Shu were dumbstruck, their mindspletely nk. They had never imagined things would turn out this way!


    So their father''s death was indirectly caused by none other than their own mother, Lu Zheng?


    While the Huo Second Master��s family had merely been borrowing the knife tomit murder!


    "Sister Lu Nianzhi, please help!" Seeing the two siblings frozen in shock, probably also stunned by the secret,


    Rong Dai had no choice but to seek help from Lu Nianzhi. Although Lu Nianzhi was shocked, she had not lost her ability to think clearly.

 Chapter 360: I Speak for Myself

    <h4>Chapter 360</h4>


    "No need!"


    At this moment, the door of the hospital room opened, and the olddy stood outside with an extremely cold and solemn expression on her face. Behind her were also people from the Lu family.


    The Lu family had three sons in total.


    The eldest son Lu Zongguang was a minister of a certain department. He had the temperament and aura of a military man, which made people look at him with awe.


    His wife was Hai Yun, arade-in-arms from the department.


    The couple had two sons. The eldest son was called Lu Shuo. He was a major general in a certain troop and was almost never home.


    The second son Lu Rong died identally while on a mission in his prime.


    And Lu Nianzhi was their adopted daughter, an orphan left behind by arade-in-arms. The couple had adopted her.


    The second son Lu Zongkang worked in the Ministry of Education and had a schrly and elegant demeanor.


    His wife was Ni Huan, also arade-in-arms from the department.


    Their eldest son was Lu Ye, and the second son was Lu Hong.


    This was the first time Rong Dai had seen all the members of the Lu family.


    "Auntie, please say what you just said again."


    Uncle Lu Zongguang spoke in a deep voice. His gaze was sharp and stern as he stared at Lu Zheng.


    Lu Zheng had already copsed limply on the sofa, unable to say anything.


    The secret she had kept for so many years, the guilt she had hidden in her heart for so many years... finally could not be kept any longer!


    "I will say it myself."


    Before Huo Shao Ting could speak, Lu Zheng wiped her tears and sat up straight.


    The room was full of people who all sat down neatly.


    This was the first time since Rong Dai''s rebirth that she had seen such a big scene.


    Fortunately, with her experience from her previous life, otherwise with this kind of scene, an ordinary young girl seeing it would probably be so frightened that she couldn''t even speak properly.


    Rong Dai sat next to Huo Shao Ting, holding his hand tightly.


    Bearing such a secret, how painful must it be for him?


    She felt heartache for him.


    But Huo Shao Ting''s expression remained as cold as ever. He had kept this matter in his heart for over twenty years.


    He had long epted this fact.


    He just didn''t expect that Yin Zhongjun, who had never appeared in his sight, would once again bring harm to his family!


    He could no longer tolerate it!


    If Lu Zheng didn''t remarry because of her guilt and self-me, if she no longer got involved with Yin Zhongjun��s affairs.


    Then he would make sure she was well taken care of for the rest of her life to live out her remaining years infort.


    He could also abide by his father''s exhortation.


    But he didn''t expect that his own mother, decades after she had indirectly nearly brought ruin upon their entire family, would still get involved with this man!


    Who Lu Zheng chose to be with, what happened to her,


    Huo Shao Ting didn��t control and wouldn��t control.


    But this person could absolutely not be Yin Zhongjun!


    Rong Dai held his hand tightly, trying to give him strength.


    She finally understood why although he told her the truthst night after he came back, he didn''t say some things.


    For him as the son, this kind of thing,


    it was not only a blow, but also a betrayal, and even more an injury!


    Rong Dai also didn''t expect there to be such aplicated past hidden with mother-inw. At this moment her mood was also extremelyplicated.


    The hospital room was very quiet. Everyone''s eyes were focused on Lu Zheng.


    "The day before Jing Zhi''s car ident, I did drive his car out and I went to see Huo Jun."


    "I liked Yin Zhongjun ever since high school..."


    Lu Zheng slowly opened her mouth, but this time when she spoke of the name ��Yin Zhongjun��, it was full of hatred!


    "I knew why I married Jing Zhi, because although the Huo Group was a private enterprise, its scientific research had always been ahead in the country."


    "I also knew very clearly what my parents were thinking back then."


    "I could never let go of Yin Zhongjun. So even after getting married, no matter how well Jing Zhi treated me, I still wanted to find out news about him."

 Chapter 361: Is it White Enough

    <h4>Chapter 361</h4>


    ��But I just wanted to fulfill a wish of my own, and didn��t intend to get involved with him in any way!��


    "When Huo Jun lent me the car, I didn''t think too much of it either. On my way back, the brakes did have some problems, but I didn''t expect things to turn out this way!"


    "Jing Zhi''s death in the car ident, this isn''t something I wanted either!"


    "It''s been so many years, I''ve been burdened by guilt and self-me my whole life, hasn''t that been enough?"


    As Lu Zheng spoke, she couldn''t help butin tearfully in grievance.


    "In this family, have you ever respected me, olddy?"


    "My three children, when have you not taken the olddy''s side when speaking?"


    "I''ve been tired, hurt, heartbroken and aggrieved for so many years, has any of you ever truly cared about me?"


    "None of you have ever cared to ask me, only I have given my all to you!"


    "I don''t have any standing in this family, I can''t evenpare to my own daughter-inw!"


    The more Lu Zheng spoke, the more aggrieved she felt. Although she felt guilty about her husband''s death deep down, she didn''t think it was entirely her fault.


    The hospital room fell silent, the Lu family and Huo family''s faces were all gloomy.


    Only Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi''s expressions were rtively normal. Due to their special status and the fact that this was a very old incident in the Huo family, they didn''t know what to say.


    Rong Dai hadn''t expected her mother-inw to be so stubborn once she dug in her heels.


    Just to fulfill a romance that never even began, causing such a huge mistake, and still feeling so wronged now.


    This left her...truly at a loss for words to evaluate.


    It can''t be said to be entirely mother-inw''s fault, but the development of these events was actually closely tied to mother-inw''s wishes.


    If she hadn''t kept thinking about Yin Zhongjun, and didn''t go to see Huo Jun,


    perhaps things wouldn''t have reached today''s circumstances.


    "Bullshit! What kind of nonsense are you saying?!"


    The olddy didn''t speak, but Lu Zongguang couldn''t help his temples throbbing angrily when he heard her still saying she felt wronged!


    "Take a look at yourself and what you''re saying! Is this still reasonable?!"


    "Were you wronged after marrying into the Huo family?!"


    Lu Zongguang was so angry he almost lost control!


    "From young till now, mom and dad doted on you the most! You nevercked anything, who would''ve thought...you were spoiled rotten!"


    "Is your wish fulfilled now? Shall I host a fancy wedding for you?!"


    "One look at that Yin brat and anyone can tell he''s unreliable, sprouting nonsense left and right, he could only deceive brainless fools like you!"


    When Lu Zongguang scolded someone, he held nothing back!


    Nevermind that there were so many of the younger generation present.


    "Are you satisfied now? Leading perfectly good lives yet still longing for...pipe dreams!"


    "Is this white enough for you?! If you disliked the Huo family that much, why did you agree back then? Did we hold you at gunpoint?!"


    "You were truly spoiled rotten! I really regret allowing you to marry into the Huo family back then, causing such a disaster for their whole family!"


    "You still have the nerve to say you were wronged? My old face burns with embarrassment on your behalf!"


    As Rong Dai listened, her heart twitched. This oldest uncle...was truly ferocious!


    Hearing words that echoed Little Thunder''s from earlier, she suddenly understood where Little Thunder''s personality resembled sometimes.


    The living, breathing specimen before her eyes was the perfect example.


    "Ahem, big brother, there are still juniors present, mind what you say."


    Lu Zongkang gently coughed to remind him.

 Chapter 362: Go White Together

    <h4>Chapter 362</h4>


    "What''s there to divide? What''s there to allot?"


    "She herself has no shame, and you''re still worried about her losing face?! Does she even have any face left?!"


    Lu Zongguang hade out of the army. Even now in his old age, his fiery temper remained unchanged. When faced with his weak Second Uncle, Lu Zongguang could only shut his mouth.


    Lu Zongkang felt helpless, but for the things his younger sister had done, he also did not know what to say.


    "Are you satisfied? Now your white knight hase. If you agree, you can roll away with him!"


    "Do you think this is still when Father and Mother were around, when everyone indulged you and had to cater to you?"


    "This loss of face is one that you''ve brought upon yourself! Who do you me? How dare you hit your daughter-inw, do you even have any shame? Lu Zheng?"


    Lu Zongguang felt he still hadn''t vented enough anger. He turned to Lu Zheng and unleashed another torrent of verbal abuse interspersed with threats.


    Listening to this, Rong Dai''s ears rang. Lu Zongguang''s roars echoed throughout the hospital ward.


    "It''s just as well. Old Madam, Shao Ting, you two don''t need to meddle anymore. She has gotten dividends from the Lu family all these years. She won''t starve."


    "Let her get lost! Go as far as she wants, just stop guing the Huo family!"


    "You guys just carry on with your lives however you want! I won''t bother about her anymore either. All these years, who could control her anyway?"


    "Since she likes her white knight, let her go be with that little punk surnamed Yin! None of us needs to bother!"


    After Lu Zongguang had finished his tirade and scolded to his heart''s content, he finally sat down, panting.


    Rong Dai watched quietly from the side. Other than Little Sister-In-Law and Little Uncle who still seemed stunned, everyone else in the room knew very clearly that there was no possibility of Mother-In-Law Lu Zheng staying in the Huo family anymore.


    But this was also where Eldest Uncle''s intelligencey.


    Mother-In-Law Lu Zheng was one of their own, and while she had wronged the Huo family, she was still their own flesh and blood in the end.


    Even if she was to be punished, it had to be with their agreement.


    And with Eldest Uncle taking the lead to scold Mother-In-Law, even if Old Madam now had the heart to chase Mother-In-Law out of the Huo residence, she would still have to consider everyone''s face.


    Such an embarrassing matter had urred, and something surely had to be done.


    But as for what exactly would be done, it wasn''t simply for the Huo family alone to decide.


    Things had already progressed to this stage. This was no longer merely the Huo family''s private affairs.


    What Rong Dai could think of, Old Madam naturally could as well. She looked deeply at Lu Zongguang, then shot a nce at Huo Shao Ting. Her voice was heavy as she asked him, "Shao Ting, how do you n to handle this matter?"


    Seeing that Old Madam was feigning ignorance, Lu Zongguang also felt a little helpless in his heart.


    He had "struck first" in the hopes of buying some time for his troublesome little sister.


    What was done was already done, and so many years had passed too. He knew very well what kind of person his little sister had been since she was young. If she were truly chased out of Shengjing City, how could she possibly survive out there alone?


    No matter how disobedient she was, no matter how grave her mistakes, as her elder brother, while he was furious, he still had to protect her.


    Yet now this concerned his eldest grand-nephew, a thorn that had been in the boy''s heart for so many years.


    And Old Madam did not seem intent onpromising either....


    Lu Zongguang sighed inwardly. This matter could now only resign itself to fate.


    "Shao Ting, while your mother is in the wrong, she didn''t do it intentionally."


    "We have no intention of shielding her either. This is us in the Lu family wronging the Ho family for failing to discipline your mother properly."


    "But now at such an age, she has lived in Shengjing her whole life. While she can leave the Huo family, I won''t disagree on that, but she cannot leave Shengjing."


    After realizing his big brother''s intentions behind that bout of ranting and raving earlier, Lu Zongkang pushed up the spectacles on his nose and slowly replied, his words full of gravity.

 Chapter 363: That鈥檚 An Impossible Thing

    <h4>Chapter 363</h4>


    As soon as Second Uncle Lu Zongkang said this, Rong Dai saw the olddy''s face change.


    This was indeed every family had their own difficulties that were hard to talk about openly, and there were even more such issues in this prestigious family.


    Given the Lu family''s background, even though the Huo Family was powerful, they still could not afford to offend them.


    Because the Huo Family was able to achieve their current status, it was closely tied to the Lu family''s influence.


    The olddy would surely understand this reasoning.


    However, the olddy was also helpless.


    After all, the one who had died was her only son!


    Yet both families had set their sights on Huo Shao Ting. If he did not handle this properly,


    with the olddy on one side and the Lu family on the other,


    in the end, he would be the one to suffer.


    Huo Mei Shu and Huo ShaoJIe were still immersed in shock over the matter and had not regained their senses. Lu Nianzhi and the two aunties also did not feel it was appropriate for them toment on the matter.


    "So Second Uncle, what do you suggest we do?" asked Huo Shao Ting.


    "If you want to take her back, I have no objections," replied Lu Zongkang.


    "But if you want her to continue staying at the Huo family, that is out of the question."


    "Keep her in Shengjing and give her another chance to assault my wife?" Huo Shao Ting retorted without giving any leeway.


    The Huo family and the Lu family needed each other.


    Lu Zheng had looked at him expectantly, but upon hearing his words, her face revealed an unbelieving andplex expression.


    After all, she was his Mother!


    Was he truly so heartless that for the sake of an outsider, he would treat his own mother this coldly?


    Lu Zongkang knew his grandnephew had a stubborn temper, but he had not expected him tock human empathy to this extent.


    Although they were defending Lu Zheng, it did not mean they were willing to take Lu Zheng back to the Lu family.


    They understood Lu Zheng''s personality all too well.


    After so many years, the Lu family had been leading a peaceful life.


    If they brought Lu Zheng back, this household would be done for!


    "Big...Big brother, do you really want to drive Mother away?" Huo Mei Shu asked in a trembling voice.


    Huo ShaoJIe also looked over at Huo Shao Ting with Rong Dai sitting by his side. She could sense theplicated emotions in the eyes of the young aunt and uncle.


    Subconsciously, neither of them wished for Mother-In-Law Lu Zheng to leave the Huo family.


    This was something Rong Dai could understand. Although there was not a big age gap between the siblings, she could imagine that since Eldest Young Master was Father''s first child, Grandfather would naturally dote on him more. Thus, Eldest Young Master''s affection towards Father would also be the deepest.


    These were all normal human feelings.


    Moreover, Grandfather had passed away early. For the olddy to support this family and raise Eldest Young Master, it was only natural for the young aunt and uncle to be closer to Mother-In-Law.


    "If you want to leave with her, I have no objections," Huo Shao Ting said coldly.


    This matter had been suppressed in his heart for over twenty years!


    If not for today, he would have kept it buried forever and not spoken about it.


    But this time, Lu Zheng had touched his raw nerve!


    Huo Mei Shu''s face turned pale, gaping yet not knowing what to say.


    Although her impression of Father''s image had grown fuzzy, she knew Eldest Brother''s feelings for Father ran deep.


    Mother had indeed gone overboard this time and was chased out of the Huo family because of it.


    Judging from Eldest Uncle and Second Uncle''s reactions, they were clearly unwilling to take Mother back.


    After leaving the Huo family, where else could she go?


    Huo ShaoJIe also did not know what to say. Over the years, even he did not know about this incident.


    He always assumed Eldest Brother was not close with Mother because of busy work at thepany.


    Yet he would never have imagined that this was connected to Father''s death!


    "Two choices. Go overseas, or go to Hainan."


    Huo Shao Ting said coldly.

 Chapter 364: You Are the Warmest Person

    <h4>Chapter 364</h4>


    Hainan was very far from Shengjing. The Huo family also had development projects and vacation vis there.


    Moreover, this matter had already be public.


    Even if Huo Shao Ting could tolerate Lu Zheng staying in Shengjing, Lu Zheng would not be able to stay.


    Lu Zongguang and Lu Zongkang looked at each other, able to understand the pros and cons.


    They both looked towards Lu Zheng, the implication clear.


    When Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu heard these two options, they also secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Going to Hainan was better than going abroad!


    Lu Zheng smiled bitterly and looked sadly at Huo Shao Ting, "Do I have any other choice?"


    She really didn��t!


    Neither the Huo family nor the Lu family.


    Both despised her, no one had ever really cared about her!


    "You brought this upon yourself."


    Huo Shao Ting was extremely cold, his eyes sharp as he looked at the Lu family members.


    "Then go to Hainan," Lu Zongguang made the decision.


    "That''s settled then, we''ll send her there tomorrow," the olddy said, settling the matter.


    When the Lu family members left, they took Lu Zheng back to the hospital.


    Only the three siblings and Rong Dai were left in the room.


    Rong Dai made an excuse to leave, her emotionsplicated as well.


    Mother-inw��s p had ruined her own peaceful life, and caused such strife with her children.


    She really did not know what to say.


    She had always thought mother-inw was just a little weak-willed, but did not expect her to be so gutless as to listen to Huo Linjing��s goading.


    Knowing what kind of person Huo Linjing was, yet still following her urging.


    Huo ShaoJie and Huo Mei Shu left in the room also did not know what to say.


    The two of them had been much closer to Lu Zheng since childhood. With grandmother and Huo Shao Ting blocking the way, the two did not suffer much since young.


    Although not very close with Huo Shao Ting, the two siblings had always respected their elder brother greatly.


    Neither had expected Huo Shao Ting to have kept such a secret for over twenty years!


    "Elder brother..."


    Before Huo Mei Shu could speak, Huo ShaoJie already opened his mouth, "I will make arrangements for mother to go to Hainan, don''t resent her too much."


    "And father is gone, he would not have wanted you to resent her either." Huo ShaoJie added, not waiting for Huo Shao Ting to respond before pulling Huo Mei Shu out of the ward.


    They ran into Rong Dai waiting at the door.


    "Sister-inw, I apologize to you on mother''s behalf," Huo ShaoJie stopped and said to Rong Dai apologetically.


    Rong Dai shook her head. Grandmother thinking that way was within her expectations.


    "I won''t. Huo Shao Ting probably won''t manage grandmother''s matters anymore, ShaoJie you''ll have to worry more."


    Huo ShaoJie nodded, "I will."


    "Sister-inw, please advise my elder brother more."


    Huo Mei Shu was still pale-faced. This sudden news and changepletely caught her unaware.


    "Elder brother has been suffering for so many years, please persuade him."


    Huo Mei Shu still felt pained for Huo Shao Ting.


    Rong Dai nodded as she watched the two siblings leave before returning to the ward.


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting still looking gloomy as he stood by the window, she poured him a cup of warm water.


    Huo Shao Ting took the cup and ced it on the window sill, then pulled Rong Dai into an embrace, resting his chin on her shoulder.


    Rong Dai could clearly sense the sorrow emanating from him.


    "Am I...very heartless?"


    His deep voice asked.


    Rong Dai felt a stab in her heart. She hugged his waist tightly.


    The blow such a thing would have dealt a child, how immense would it have been?


    That even after over twenty years, he still had not forgotten, exploding with such heartrending grief.


    "No, this is not your fault."


    "To me, you are the warmest person, Huo Shao Ting."


    Her voice was gentle as she spoke.

 Chapter 365: Leaving Shengjing

    <h4>Chapter 365</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting had a restless night, and Rong Dai couldn''t sleep well either.


    She stayed by Huo Shao Ting''s side all night, even though he was asleep, his brows remained furrowed.


    Rong Dai''s heart ached, and she slept with her arms around his waist throughout the night.


    When Huo Shao Ting woke up in the morning and saw the blue shade in her eyes, he leaned down and kissed her forehead.


    "I''m sorry for making you worry," he softly spoke. Although his handsome face didn''t show any other emotions, Rong Dai could clearly sense theplexity in his heart.


    "Is your face still hurting?"


    He lifted his hand and touched her cheek. He had used medicine to reduce the swellingst night, and apart from a few faint bruises, Rong Dai no longer felt any pain.


    She shook her head and leaned her head against his chest, listening to his strong heartbeat, finding sce in her heart.


    "I''m fine, and I don''t me her either."


    After the truth came out, Lu Zheng, his mother-inw, became a forbidden topic. Rong Dai wouldn''t try to persuade Huo Shao Ting to reconcile with her.


    If he wanted to find peace, it had toe from his own willingness.


    Only those who haven''t experienced it cannot understand the emotions he had gone through in the past two decades.


    Huo Shao Ting held her in silence. The couple stayed in bed until the doctor came and knocked on the door, asking Rong Dai to undergo an examination. Only then did they get up from the bed.


    After having breakfast together, Huo Shao Ting went to thepany as usual.


    Rong Dai underwent the examination, and everything was fine, which eased her worries to some extent.


    During her days in the hospital, she also learned a lot about women''s health.


    These were all things she didn''t have in her past life, so she paid extra attention to her physical well-being.


    After returning from the examination and checking the time, she saw that it was already ten o''clock.


    She hesitated for a few seconds but still decided to call Huo Shao Jie.


    "Sister-inw."


    It was noisy on Huo Shao Jie''s end, sounding like he was at the airport.


    "Shao Jie, how did you arrange things with Mom?"


    She asked in a low voice.


    Yesterday, the olddy had spoken and demanded that Lu Zheng leave today.


    The Lu family didn''t object either.


    Moreover, even Huo Linjing knew about Lu Zheng''s ordeal, so it would be difficult to keep it a secret online.


    It would be good for her if her mother-inw left Shengjing early.


    Although the Huo family held a significant position in Shengjing, Hainan was far away, and there probably wouldn''t be many people who knew her mother-inw there.


    A quiet environment might help her figure things out.


    "It''s all arranged. We''re boarding now."


    Huo Shao Jie''s voice was faint.


    What happened yesterday was unexpected for him as well.


    He understood that neither the Huo family nor the Lu family, nor this bustling Shengjing could tolerate his birth mother.


    Leaving early would be beneficial for her too.


    Sost night, after he went back, he arranged everything overnight.


    "You''ve worked hard."


    Hearing his words, Rong Dai felt relieved.


    Although she was annoyed by the p from her mother-inw, which came out of nowhere, she could understand the reasons behind it.


    However, in the future, she wouldn''t be as close to Lu Zheng as before. It would be enough if they maintained a decent rtionship in front of others.


    The reason she inquired about her younger brother-inw''s mother-inw was for Shaoting''s sake.


    Whether Shaoting forgives his mother-inw or not is his own business.


    However, as his wife, there are certain things she needs to fulfill her responsibility to tell him.


    "Of course. If there''s nothing urgent, I''ll hang up now."


    "By the way, Mei Shu and I are going to apany Mom on a trip to Hainan. It will be a bit hard on you with Grandma and Big Brother."


    "We''ll take care of things over there and will be back soon."


    Huo Shaojie spoke.


    Rong Dai responded and hung up the phone.

 Chapter 366: Take the Jewels

    <h4>Chapter 366</h4>


    After ending the call with Huo Shaojie, Rong Dai opened the WeChat chat page of Huo Shaoting.


    It had been a while since theyst chatted on WeChat, before she was kidnapped.


    She contemted for a moment and typed a line before sending it.


    "Shaojie and Meishu are apanying Mom to Hainan."


    A few minutester, she received a brief reply from Huo Shaoting: "Hmm."


    Upon seeing his response, Rong Dai didn''t say anything more.


    The emotional bond between mother and son could only be resolved by themselves. As an "outsider," all she could do was this.


    She was well aware of one thing, regardless of one''s identity or position.


    Never ever attempt the most foolish thing, which is to try and change everything about another person.


    She had learned this lesson too deeply in her past life!


    After turning off the phone screen, she took out her tablet and study materials, intending to study the courses first.


    However, her phone vibrated, and it was a call from Lu Nianzhi.


    "Rong Dai, can Ie to the hospital to see you now?"


    As soon as the call connected, Lu Nianzhi asked her with a slightly hurried breath.


    Rong Dai responded and hung up the phone, then reluctantly turned off the tablet she had just started.


    Half an hourter, Lu Nianzhi arrived at the hospital.


    "What happened? Why are you so anxious?"


    Seeing the fine sweat on her forehead, Rong Dai asked and gestured for her to sit down.


    Lu Nianzhi unscrewed the bottle cap, took a few gulps of water, and took a few deep breaths before her breathing gradually steadied.


    "It''s all because of Aunt''s matter."


    She looked at Rong Dai and sighed heavily, cing the water on the coffee table.


    "She did it again? She has already left for Hainan today."


    Rong Dai was puzzled.


    Thinking about the attitudes of the Lu family members yesterday, she actually felt a bit mncholic.


    Both the eldest uncle and the second uncle didn''t want their mother-inw to return to the Lu family.


    After all, they were well aware of the personality of Lu Zheng. If she returned to the Lu family, the whole family would probably lose its peace.


    "She did go, but before she left, she took the two sets of jewelry that Grandpa and Grandma left behind."


    Lu Nianzhi said while shaking her head and sighing.


    "Those two sets of jewelry were originally meant for my mom and my second aunt. Other jewelry could be overlooked, but those have sentimental value."


    "Just now, I couldn''t stand the argument at home, so I came here to seek refuge."


    Hearing Lu Nianzhi''s words, Rong Dai was a bit stunned.


    What kind of move was her mother-inw making again?


    Huo Shaoting had just given her so many pieces of jewelry from his father''s collection, as well as the ones given by the olddy.


    And now she took away the jewelry that belonged to her eldest uncle''s wife and second uncle''s wife. Wasn''t she causing trouble?


    Was she genuinely happy only when she managed topletely alienate the Lu family?


    "They haven''t left yet, so if we go to the airport, we should be able to catch them."


    Rong Dai didn''t know what to say.


    It was normal for women to like jewelry.


    But with Lu Zheng''s mindset��wanting to get her hands on anything she liked��Rong Dai couldn''t agree with that.


    "If only it were that easy, my father and second uncle wouldn''t be getting their blood pressure soaring at home!" Lu Nianzhi sighed bitterly.


    "I really don''t understand why Aunt did this. Is it her way of retaliating because my father scolded her yesterday and didn''t help her?"


    Rong Dai didn''t want to hear any more about her mother-inw''s affairs. She didn''t have time to tell Shaoting about these things.


    "Let''s not talk about that. How is thepany doing now?"

 Chapter 367: The Business of the Company

    <h4>Chapter 367</h4>


    When she brought up thepany''s affairs, Lu Nianzhi realized she had said something wrong.


    Recalling the p Rong Dai gave to Yong Dai yesterday, she was also quite surprised.


    Father had always said that auntie was rebellious and willful, she had never gotten proof of that before.


    Yesterday it certainly broadened her horizons.


    "Everything for thepany has already been prepared, once you''re discharged from the hospital, operations can begin."


    When it came to work, Rong Dai immediately became serious again.


    "How are the recruitment postings?"


    Yong Dai nodded, Lu Nianzhi was at ease leaving matters to her.


    "Everything has been revised ording to your requirements, we''re just waiting for you to recover before posting them."


    Lu Nianzhi remembered that Rong Dai had said she wanted to interview people herself, and train up a group on her own, so the recruitment ads had not yet been posted.


    "You''ve worked hard, I''ll be able to leave the hospital after recovering for a few more days."


    Rong Dai acquiesced.


    "I heard this time that TK also has coborations with Fangshengya College and Shengyi, do you know which students were selected?"


    Because of the matter with mother-inw yesterday, things with TK were disrupted.


    But these matters were all rted, now they could only wait for news.


    She thought of Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi, two people whose personalities were very withdrawn at school.


    But during theirst conversation, the two seemed to get along fine with the original owner.


    She would protect herself well, but she couldn''tpletely cast aside people and matters rted to the original''s former life.


    That was unrealistic.


    "As for Fangshengya, those two who made trouble at the He family winery, with Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s involvement, it''s not surprising they were selected."


    "This time Shengyi''s side was suppressed, only your two ssmates made it to the end."


    "But now looking at the harmonious situation between TK and Brocade Embroidery Workshop, the chances of your two ssmates being selected are slim."


    Over the past few days, Lu Nianzhi had been keeping a close eye on everything rted to TK. As for investigations, those were of course handed over to President Huo to handle.


    She had just returned to the country, her connections were limited.


    And the things she could investigate were very limited, so she ced all her attention on other TK matters instead.


    Upon hearing this news, Rong Dai was unsurprised.


    Those two people Yao Shilin and Cai Yunmeng were die-hard fans of Brocade Embroidery Workshop to begin with. Now with TK and Brocade Embroidery Workshop "reconciling", even if there was some unpleasantness from the incident at the He family winery that would make TK feel ufortable, when considering Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s face, that little transgression was negligible.


    After all, Yao Shilin and Cai Yunmeng both had some talent, turning a blind eye was a trivial matter.


    "Leave spots for those two on the recruitment info, I want to hire them in."


    Rong Dai decided after some consideration.


    Although she couldn''tpletely cast aside all aspects of the original''s former life, having people familiar with the original by her side like this.


    Was still a very dangerous thing for her.


    But she needed to groom people she could trust within thepany.


    Only people who endured hardships together, walked this path together, would greatly impact herpany''s future development.


    And most of the people recruited from the market now had their own livelihood pressures.


    She could offer high sries, but she didn''t want to ept perfect resumes yet people who skived off in herpany.


    Rather than that, she would prefer wed people who were willing to strive onwards.


    "That''s a trivial matter, but you also know our current circumstances, I have to remind you when ites to hiring people."


    "Since you''ve made future ns, you have to be prudent about recruitment."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, recording her requirements in her phone''s memos.

 Chapter 368: Back to Her Again

    <h4>Chapter 368</h4>


    Rong Dai and Lu Nianzhi discussed work matters, as Rong Dai''s health issues meant that some of the career ns Lu Nianzhi had previously made for her would have to be changed.


    Rong Dai was very willing to think of solutions to the issues, and after discussing for a morning, the ns they had previously made were revised.


    At lunchtime, Rong Dai was having postpartum meals, so Lu Nianzhi also got to enjoy an early taste.


    After eating, Lu Nianzhi went to fetch materials for her, while Rong Dai had justid down to rest when voices of bodyguards came from outside the door.


    She got up and opened the door, and the bodyguards had stopped a man and a young boy outside.


    "Hello, Mrs. Huo."


    "I''m Xu Chuan, sorry to disturb your rest."


    "I believe Nianzhi should have mentioned me to you before, I just wanted toe and exin something."


    Rong Dai did have an impression of Xu Chuan, after all someone who could get Lu Nianzhi''s attention couldn''t be too bad.


    "Go ahead."


    She nodded, a little worried inside about Lu Nianzhiing back and seeing Xu Chuan, would she explode?


    However, while the other party was a little presumptuous, he was also very courteous, so she couldn''t just chase them away outright.


    "We ran into Nianzhi at the hot pot restaurant that day, Mrs. Huo, and then you had your incident afterwards."


    "This matter was not Nianzhi''s fault. That day I insisted on talking to her, leading to some mistakes in her work..."


    "Xu Chuan!"


    Before he could finish speaking, the thing Rong Dai worried about most still happened.


    She couldn''t help but sigh inwardly, seeing Lu Nianzhi stomping over in high heels, rage across her face. She broke out in sweat for Xu Chuan.


    "Mr. Xu, I''m aware of this matter, it wasn''t my sister Nianzhi''s problem, so don''t worry."


    She quickly added, the meaning crystal clear.


    She wanted Xu Chuan to leave quickly.


    In handling work matters, Lu Nianzhi''s capabilities were definitely excellent.


    But when it came to matters with Xu Chuan, she had personally witnessed Lu Nianzhi''s angry outbursts!


    This was a hospital, and her own hospital room.


    Although the media didn''t dare randomly report on her news these past few days, if something happened right outside her room, both Lu Nianzhi and Xu Chuan''s personal information could get exposed, leading to harassment in their lives.


    Yet Xu Chuan was in no hurry, also not afraid, as he stood there holding the carrot-haired little Xu Heng''s hand, simply watching the raging Lu Nianzhi storm over.


    "Nianzhi..."


    "Shut up! Xu Chuan!"


    Seeing him, Lu Nianzhi blew her top instantly!


    Not letting Xu Chuan finish speaking, she pointed at him, shaking with anger!


    "Do you really need me to get you locked up at a police station for a few days before you''ll stop?!"


    Lu Nianzhi was so furious she nearly died!


    She never knew this man could be so shameless!


    Rong Dai felt helpless inside, and upon seeing the girlishly made-up little Xu Heng, her heart suddenly softened.


    She had always desperately wanted a child, to be a mother.


    This recent ident had dealt her a huge blow.


    Although many messy things had happened these past few days, she knew her heart was still hurting badly.


    It was just that the situation and timing didn''t permit her to immerse herself too much in her own grief and anguish.


    Also, she didn''t want Shaoting to worry for her and be in pain together with her.


    Ever since little Xu Heng had been frightened by Lu Nianzhi at the parking lotst time, he had been rather traumatized by her.


    But he was very obedient, bearing his father''s words in mind.


    Yet seeing Lu Nianzhi''s raging dragon-like disy, he still shrank back behind Xu Chuan a little.

 Chapter 369: Need a Break

    <h4>Chapter 369</h4>


    "Nianzhi Lu, if there''s anything going on, why don''t you and Mr. Xu go outside to talk?"


    "The child is still young, don''t scare the child."


    "Quarrelling and losing your temper won''t solve the issues between you. Have a good talk, it''ll be better for both of you."


    She reminded Nianzhi Lu, and when she looked at little carrot-top Xu Heng, her heart instantly softened into a mess, and her voice became much gentler unconsciously.


    Nianzhi Lu knew a little about what was going on between her and Xu Chuan.


    But since she didn''t witness it personally after all, she didn''t give any opinion back then when she first heard about it.


    However, as a woman herself, she could understand Nianzhi Lu''s feelings.


    But with Nianzhi Lu''s temper, ming up at the sight of Xu Chuan and scolding him, this wouldn''t solve anything between them.


    It wouldn''t untie the knot in her own heart either. The one suffering would still be herself.


    Let''s not talk about Xu Chuan''s faults for the moment.


    Such excessive behavior of hers was actually because she still couldn''t let go of that incident. She wanted an exnation from Xu Chuan.


    But she never gave Xu Chuan a chance all this time.


    Even if Xu Chuan wanted to exin, being scolded like this upon sight, how could he exin anything?


    Some things, the more they''re let go, the more they upy the mind.


    "Rong Dai, you......"


    Nianzhi Lu looked at her in shock. She didn''t expect Rong Dai to speak up for Xu Chuan!


    Seeing the look in her eyes, Rong Dai felt somewhat exasperated.


    "Sister Nianzhi, you and I are family. I''m barely acquainted with Mr. Xu. Why would I speak for him?"


    "I just want to help you."


    She said, looking at the two people before her.


    She alsomented to herself that it was a shame. If not for what happened five years ago, Nianzhi Lu and Xu Chuan would have been a perfect match.


    "Whenever you see Mr. Xu you get angry, and that''s because you haven''t let it go all these years."


    "Back when you told me about this, I didn''t know what advice to offer."


    She started to exin, ncing at Xu Chuan before focusing back on Nianzhi Lu.


    "I don''t know what kind of person Mr. Xu is, but from his words just now, I feel like you could sit down with Mr. Xu and have a talk, Sister Nianzhi."


    "The deeper something is buried in your heart, the harder it is to let go."


    "I''m not saying this to persuade you to make up with Mr. Xu and forget everything."


    "I just want you to get the exnation you want, to release yourself. Don''t let this matter ruin your youth anymore. Life is short, five years is no small amount."


    Rong Dai advised her earnestly.


    Only the perpetrator can lift this grievance.


    Today she would act as the peacemaker.


    Hearing her words, Nianzhi Lu''s anger gradually cooled down. But her face was still dark as she glowered at Xu Chuan.


    "What do you mean by that?"


    She asked in an awful tone.


    Rong Dai''s words had struck deep.


    But whenever she thought about that incident she felt intense disgust!


    Yet she wanted a clear exnation, even if Xu Chuan had to make one up just to mollify her.


    That would be fine too.


    She really...needed to liberate herself.


    Living these five years had been truly exhausting. It was like a demon that kept tormenting her.


    Xu Chuan promptly nodded, seemingly afraid that she would change her mind. "There''s a cafe nearby. Shall we go there?"


    Five years had passed and he still wanted to give her an exnation.


    He didn''t expect this exnation to melt the ice between him and Nianzhi, but at least he didn''t want her to live so painfully.


    He wanted her to stop tormenting herself and live well.


    He didn''t deserve forgiveness for the rest of his life. Even if he had to live in remorse and self-me, growing old all alone, he was willing.

 Chapter 370: The Child Stays

    <h4>Chapter 370</h4>


    "Aren''t you leaving yet?!"


    Lu Nianzhi''s attitude was still unfriendly. She handed the documents to Rong Dai, then shot Xu Chuan a hateful nce.


    Rong Dai took the documents and ced them on the cab next to her. Her gaze fell upon little Xu Heng.


    "If Mr. Xu doesn''t mind, I can look after the child here for a while."


    "You know what Nianzhi is upset about. Bringing the child over would not be conducive to your conversation."


    Looking closely, the child was only about five percent simr to Xu Chuan. His other features must havee from his mother.


    Xu Chuan hesitated, while Lu Nianzhi had already walked far away. He immediately squatted down and gently said to little Xu Heng, "Heng Heng, Daddy needs to talk to Aunt Lu. This is Aunt Rong."


    "Can you stay with Aunt Rong to keep herpany? Daddy will be back very soon."


    Seeing how gently Xu Chuan spoke to his child, seeking the little one''s opinion, Rong Dai couldn''t help but imagine Huo Shao Ting interacting lovingly with their future child one day.


    Little Xu Heng thought seriously for a few seconds. He looked up at Rong Dai with his big watery eyes, sizing her up.


    Rong Dai immediately showed a motherly smile and gently said, "Your name is Heng Heng, right?"


    Little Xu Heng nodded, tilting his head as he looked at her.


    "Aunt Rong has lots of tasty treats. If you''d like, I can share them with you, Heng Heng."


    Rong Dai bent over slightly, a captivating smile on her beautiful face.


    Instead of immediately agreeing, little Xu Heng asked Xu Chuan, "Daddy, can Heng Heng have some chocte?"


    Xu Chuan hesitated before telling him, "Yes, but just one piece. You already had one yesterday, remember?"


    "Too much is bad for your teeth. Don''t you recall who was crying from a toothachest time?"


    Although anxious, Xu Chuan patiently spoke to his son.


    "Okay then, Heng Heng would like to keep Aunt Rongpany!"


    Having gotten permission, little Xu Heng''s face lit up happily. He let go of Xu Chuan''s hand and nted a kiss on his father''s cheek.


    "Daddy, do your best to cate Aunt Lu!"


    "Although she''s a bit scary, Aunt Lu is very pretty. Prettydies will look bad if they stay angry."


    After the kiss, little Xu Heng took the initiative to grab Rong Dai''s hand, standing like a little adult as he advised Xu Chuan earnestly.


    Xu Chuan nodded solemnly, "Daddy will."


    "Thene back soon to get me."


    Little Xu Heng nodded back.


    Xu Chuan finally stood up and looked apologetically at Rong Dai. "I''m sorry to trouble you, Mrs. Huo."


    Rong Dai smiled faintly, holding little Xu Heng''s soft little hand. Her heart was overflowing with tenderness.


    "It''s no trouble. I love little kids."


    "Heng Heng is a bit allergic to flowers. His heart is weak too, so intense exercise isn''t suitable."


    Xu Chuan looked at her gratefully before thoughtfully reminding her. He took out a small box of pills from his pocket and handed it to her.


    Watching Xu Chuan run off quickly after Lu Nianzhi, Rong Dai nced down at the medicine box and child beside her.


    If not for what happened, Xu seemed to be a decent man after all. At least he was obviously an outstanding father, judging by how he treated his son.


    "Let''s go in, Heng Heng."


    Rong Dai looked tenderly at little Xu Heng, her voice exceptionally gentle.


    Little Xu Heng was very happy. He entered her hospital room, looking around curiously with his big eyes.

 Chapter 371: The Cured Xu Heng

    <h4>Chapter 371</h4>


    "Auntie Rong, are you sick? Why do you have to stay in the hospital?" Little Xu Heng looked up at her and asked.


    Rong Dai turned around to get him some fruits and snacks, and deliberately took the flowers out to let the bodyguards outside handle them.


    "Heng Heng also stays in the hospital often, but Auntie Rong''s ward doesn''t have a weird smell, Heng Heng likes it very much!"


    "I wish Dad could bring me here too in the future."


    Little Xu Heng didn''t wait for Rong Dai to answer his questions and talked a lot more by himself. Then he lowered his little head all of a sudden.


    Rong Dai looked at this little child. Xu Chuan had just told her that this child had a heart problem.


    She held Little Xu Heng''s hand and sat down on the sofa, smiling and said, "This ce can''t cure Heng Heng''s illness!"


    "Auntie is...because I just lost a little baby, so I''m hospitalized here."


    Rong Dai originally wanted to casually lie to coax him.


    But suddenly in her mind emerged the image of Xu Chuan seriously talking to Little Xu Heng just now. To some people, this was simply ridiculous.


    He was just a five-year-old child after all, how much could he understand?


    But on the contrary, children sometimes tend to be more perceptive than adults.


    It''s not that children don''t understand, it''s just that they don''t know how to express it.


    And Xu Chuan was very patient with every word and deed of Little Xu Heng. This child could be so well-behaved and sensible, thanks to Xu Chuan''s education of him.


    So she hesitated for a moment, and still chose to tell the truth.


    Little Xu Heng''s face suddenly turned pale. Then he looked at her belly with a sad expression.


    Seeing him turn pale, Rong Dai thought she had scared him with her exnation.


    "Then you must be very sad, Auntie."


    Before she could speak, Little Xu Heng looked at her, his eyes were also sad, and his voice was soft and tender when he spoke.


    "Heng Heng hugs you. Dad said that when you''re sad, hugging Heng Heng will make you feel better."


    "Now Heng Heng hugs you too. Auntie, you''ll feel better!"


    "Heng Heng thinks the little baby will definitelye back to find Auntie!"


    "So Auntie, you have to be happy! Only then will the little baby be obedient!"


    Little Xu Heng stood on the sofa and walked over to her, hugging her neck, andforted her tenderly, but his eyes were particrly sincere.


    Rong Dai felt a twinge in her heart. Her nose and eyes couldn''t help feeling a little sour.


    This soft little child in her arms suddenly made her understand what "healing" means.


    She also gently hugged Little Xu Heng, looking at him with loving eyes.


    "Auntie thanks Heng Heng. Auntie believes that when the little baby hears Heng Heng''s words, he will definitelye back."


    Little Xu Heng immediately smiled from ear to ear. Seeing her smile, he sat very contentedly on the sofa, his eyes shining as he looked at the fruits and snacks on the te on the coffee table next to him.


    "Heng Heng, didn''t you want to eat chocte? Do you want the white or the ck one?" Rong Dai asked him with a smile, her heart filled with warmth.


    Little Xu Heng tilted his little head and looked at her, holding up two fair and tender little fingers, "Can Heng Heng have both?"


    "The aunt and uncle on TV said that only kids make choices! Adults can have both!"


    Hearing his precocious words, Rong Dai was a little amused and helpless.


    Which aunt and uncle said that?


    Please don''t mislead children, okay?


    "Did Heng Heng forget what Dad just told you?"


    Rong Dai took a piece of chocte in each hand and leaned close to him, smiling at him.

 Chapter 372: Dear Little Xu Heng

    <h4>Chapter 372</h4>


    Little Xu Heng''s small face, the size of a palm, wrinkled up as he eyed the two chocte bars longingly in her hand. He wanted to eat them so much!


    But he had promised his dad that he could only eat one.


    "Auntie Rong, could you break both bars in half and put them together as one for me to eat? I really want to eat them..."


    He looked at Rong Dai pleadingly, his voice soft and tender.


    Rong Dai''s motherly heart melted at his words. How could she not give in?


    "Alright, Xu Heng is so clever!"


    If this was her own son, she would happily let him eat as much as he wanted!


    But this child had a heart condition. She kept Xu Chuan''s warnings firmly in mind.


    "Thank you, Auntie Rong!"


    Getting what he wanted, Little Xu Heng beamed gleefully, his eyes smiling into little crescent moons.


    Little Xu Heng was such an obedient and considerate child. After ying with him for a while, Rong Dai realized there wasn''t much for a child to y within the room.


    This was a private hospital specializing in caring for pregnant women.


    There were some toys for children to y with in the hospital, all expensive imported ones. She had sent the bodyguards at the door to buy building blocks and jigsaw puzzles.


    Rong Dai was worried the floor might be dirty and make the child sick.


    So she removed the mattress covers and bedsheets, changing them for clean ones for her and the child to y with the blocks and puzzles on the bed.


    Watching Little Xu Heng eased the anguish that Rong Dai had kept suppressed within.


    She would make sure to stay healthy so that the next time her little angeles, she would be able to care for him properly.


    Unknowingly, the two of them yed for a long time until it was nearly evening and Xu Chuan and Lu Nianzhi had still not returned.


    "Are you feeling hungry?"


    Rong Dai gazed at his rosy red cheeks, feeling tenderhearted. She touched his soft little head impulsively and gently asked if he was hungry.


    Little Xu Heng had yed for a long time and enjoyed himself but he still missed his daddy in his heart.


    He nced outside at the darkening sky, his face crumpling into a little ball.


    "I''m a little hungry but I want to wait for Daddy toe back so we can eat together."


    Rong Dai just smiled softly and stroked his head, not saying anything.


    "If Auntie Rong is hungry, I can eat a little with you first."


    After a short pause, he looked up brightly at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai gave a wryugh, this child was so adorable and considerate!


    "There''s a restaurant here. Let Auntie change first and I''ll apany you there for something to eat. What can you not eat, you can tell Auntie."


    At her words about eating at the restaurant, Little Xu Heng perked up immediately!


    Daddy always said that food outside was unhygienic and would make him fall sick so he rarely ate out at restaurants.


    Thest time Daddy brought him to a restaurant was a very long time ago!


    "I can''t eat garlic, ginger, spring onions, chili peppers, MSG...that seems to be all."


    Little Xu Heng earnestly counted off each item on his fingers.


    Rong Dai was briefly taken aback as she recalled Xu Chuan''s words.


    This child''s heart condition meant that at a public restaurant with many people, it was difficult to achieve the same standards of hygiene as cooking at home.


    "Is there too many things Xu Heng can''t eat, Auntie? Then...then just bread is okay."


    Seeing her unable to respond, Little Xu Heng thought he was too difficult to care for.


    When he was previously warded and his daddy could note on time, the nurses said he was too pampered and difficult to manage.


    But daddy does the same things at home!


    When Rong Dai saw his guarded and self-ming look, she felt a sudden pain in her heart. She patted himfortingly and said with a smile, "No, Auntie can cook too."


    "The food I cook is just as good as the restaurant. What would Xu Heng prefer to eat?"

 Chapter 373: You can鈥檛 Call Aunt Yung Mama

    <h4>Chapter 373</h4>


    Rong Dai gazed at him and thought carefully before asking him, "But Auntie Rong, you''re a patient. Daddy said before that the sick need more rest and can''t overexert themselves!"


    Rong Dai stroked his head and said with a smile, "Shall we go to the restaurant to eat then?"


    Xu Heng''s eyes shone brightly as he looked at her and nodded.


    After Rong Dai put on his shoes, she went out, intending to have the bodyguard go ahead to reserve a table at the restaurant, and also have the restaurant thoroughly disinfect the things for kids.


    As soon as she opened the door she saw Huo Shao Ting standing outside.


    "Why are you back so early today?" she asked, surprised. Thest few days had been busy at thepany and he hadn''t returned untilte.


    Huo Shao Ting extended his hand to grasp her slender one, and softly exined, "Just about everything is settled now. I can leave some of the work for employees to handle."


    If the CEO had to handle every big and small matter in thepany, what were the employees there for?


    "Auntie Rong, who is he?"


    Xu Heng had already put on his little coat ande out. Seeing Huo Shao Ting, he looked confusedly at Rong Dai.


    Huo Shao Ting also looked confusedly at Rong Dai.


    "This is Xu Chuan''s son, Xu Heng."


    "Today he came to apologize on Nian Zhi''s behalf. But unexpectedly ran into Nian Zhi here."


    "I like children, so I couldn''t help meddling and had them find a ce to calmly talk things through. I''m just looking after little Xu Heng for now."


    She gazed at Huo Shao Ting, her voice soft and gentle as she exined.


    Huo Shao Ting felt a stab of pain in his heart. He grasped her hand tightly. He knew she was still hurting.


    His gaze turned to the soft and tender little Xu Heng. "I''m her husband," he said.


    Unexpectedly, Xu Heng''s eyes immediately dimmed. But after a few seconds they lit up again as he looked at the couple with admiration and envy.


    His voice was soft and tender as he spoke with a childish lilt, "Then Auntie Rong''s future little baby will definitely be very fortunate. He''ll have a daddy and mommy..."


    Rong Dai hadn''t expected he would say this. She thought about what Lu Nianzhi had told her about everything.


    Even she, who had been an imperial consort for thirty years in her past life but had never been a mother for one day, didn''t know how to respond.


    "What''s this? Do you feel unhappy now?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked down at the little turnip head, his handsome face gentle. His voice wasn''t as cold and stern as usual.


    Hearing his words, Xu Heng immediately shook his head. "No no no! That''s not what Heng Heng meant!"


    "Heng Heng has never even seen Mommy before... Heng Heng just really wants to know what she looks like."


    "But Daddy called her before. She doesn''t want to see Heng Heng..."


    Xu Heng dragged out thest syble, his soft, tender voice full of grievance and loss.


    "Daddy asked Heng Heng before if he was willing to have Auntie Lu be his mommy."


    "But Auntie Lu...she''s so fierce!"


    "And it seems like Auntie Lu really dislikes Daddy. Does she find Heng Heng unlovable? Why doesn''t any auntie want to be Heng Heng''s mommy?"


    The little guy rapid-fired questions as his emotions rose, instantly stumping the couple.


    One was a business tycoon handling everything daily.


    The other had spent thirty years earnestly pleasing the emperor and battling wits and cunning with the imperial consorts.


    Neither of them had any "child-rearing" experience in their backgrounds.


    "Heng Heng really likes Auntie Rong! But Auntie Rong has this handsome uncle now, so Daddy can''t marry you and Heng Heng can''t call Auntie Rong ''Mommy''..."


    Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai: "..."


    The couple was rendered speechless.


    Huo Shao Ting hadn''t expected that the one coveting his wife would be such a little milk baby.


    And Rong Dai felt distressed. Although she had only spent over half a day with Xu Heng, this child was clever, well-behaved, and understood much. That was why she felt particrly pained over his situation.

 Chapter 374: Strength for Favour

    <h4>Chapter 374</h4>


    "You really can''t call me that," Huo Shao Ting replied seriously, leaving Rong Dai somewhat speechless.


    Although Little Xu Heng felt a bit disappointed, he still nodded earnestly.


    "You probably haven''t had dinner yet. Heng Heng wants to go to the restaurant for a meal. Shall we go together?" Rong Dai remembered the main purpose and looked at him with a hopeful expression, seeking his opinion.


    Huo Shao Ting couldn''t resist her. After all, she was his wife. Besides doting on her, what else could he do?


    However, before leaving, Little Xu Heng''splexion didn''t look too good, probably because he had been ying for too long in the afternoon.


    Huo Shao Ting certainly couldn''t let his wife do the lifting. He had to do it himself.


    Rong Dai watched as he carried Little Xu Heng. Although her face seemed a little stiff, the gesture was still gentle.


    In the future, her Shao Ting should be an excellent father like Xu Chuan, right?


    Rong Dai hoped in her heart as the three of them entered the restaurant like a small family of three.


    Rong Dai kept in mind Little Xu Heng''s condition, so after the dishes were served, she took care of him attentively throughout the meal, being meticulous and considerate, with a motherly smile on her face.


    Huo Shao Ting was left hanging by her, feeling a sourness in his heart and a bit worried that she was getting too tired.


    But he couldn''t show it.


    Otherwise, if hepeted with a little kid for attention, his position in his wife''s heart would be too light!


    So, he had to eat with a ck face throughout the meal.


    Rong Dai hardly ate anything that night. Just taking care of Little Xu Heng''s meal made her incredibly content.


    Her desire to be a mother in both lives had been fulfilled. How could she still have the appetite to eat?


    After finally finishing the meal and leaving the restaurant, Little Xu Heng gotzy and requested to be carried.


    Huo Shao Ting looked down at him with a dark face, while Rong Dai, feeling helpless, softly pleaded, "Shao Ting, just carry him for a bit."


    "Just consider it as... letting him experience it in advance. When we have our own children in the future, it''ll be good to be more skilled."


    Rong Dai originally thought he would agree, but she didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting''s face to darken even more.


    After a few seconds of deadlock, Huo Shao Ting reluctantly carried Little Xu Heng.


    Little did Rong Dai know, she had made a big loss with this meal!


    Throughout the meal, she left Huo Shao Ting alone, her eyes fixed on Little Xu Heng,pletely ignoring his presence.


    This made Huo Shao Ting deeply feel the crisis.


    He began to doubt whether having a child would be apetition for attention with him.


    Rong Er loved children so much, would there still be a ce for him in her heart?


    Huo Shao Ting felt uneasy, his mind filled with all sorts of messy thoughts, and he apanied her back to the hospital.


    Shortly after the three of them returned, the door to the hospital room knocked.


    Xu Chuan and Lu Nianzhi came back together.


    Xu Chuan''s expression was still the same as before, but Lu Nianzhi''s face was much calmer than before.


    Although there was still a faint disgust, it wasn''t as obvious.


    "Huo CEO, Mrs. Huo, sorry to bother you. Heng Heng didn''t cause any trouble, right?" Xu Chuan didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to be there too, showing even more apologetic expression.


    Rong Dai smiled and said, "It''s alright. Heng Heng is very well-behaved. He just had dinner. It''s probably because he yed for too long in the afternoon."


    "So when Shao Ting carried him back, he was already asleep."


    Rong Dai didn''t let Little Xu Heng sleep on her hospital bed. Instead, she spread a clean sheet on the sofa and had Little Xu Heng sleep on it.


    "In that case, I''ll wait for Mr. Huo and Mrs. Huo to be avable another day, and then I''ll invite them as guests to express my gratitude. For now, I''ll take little Heng Heng home."


    Xu Chuan looked at his son on the sofa with gentle eyes and politely said to the couple.


    Rong Dai didn''t object either. Huo Shao Ting couldn''t wait for this child to leave.


    Xu Chuan lifted Little Xu Heng up in his arms. The little one, still half asleep, smiled when he saw Xu Chuan and said, "Daddy, you''re here to pick up Heng Heng..."

 Chapter 375: Aunt Lu is beautiful Too

    <h4>Chapter 375</h4>


    "I''m sorry, Dad camete."


    Xu Chuan gently touched his son''s head and said in a tender voice.


    Little Xu Heng, with a satisfied expression,y on his shoulder and spoke in a childish voice, "It''s okay, Heng Heng doesn''t me Dad."


    "Heng Heng had a great time today."


    "Aunt Rong is very beautiful, and Heng Heng really likes her!"


    "Unfortunately, she already has Uncle Huo, otherwise Dad could marry her and be Heng Heng''s mom..."


    The little guy, half asleep, spoke in a drowsy manner.


    They say children speak their minds, but Huo Shao Ting remembered this sentence, staring coldly at Xu Chuan.


    Xu Chuan felt extremely embarrassed, and Rong Dai quickly smiled and exined, "Children are young and innocent, they speak without restraint."


    "Mr. Xu, you should take Heng Heng home now. It''ste and it''s chilly outside."


    Xu Chuan nodded and carried Heng Heng. As he passed by Lu Nianzhi, his footsteps paused. He looked at her withplex and worried eyes, wanting to say something more.


    But he couldn''t find the words.


    "Oh, isn''t this Aunt Lu? Why is she here..."


    "Ah, Aunt Lu is also very beautiful... Even though she seems a bit stern, she is still a girl that Dad loves..."


    "Why doesn''t she like Heng Heng? Otherwise, she could be Heng Heng''s mom."


    "Ah, what a pity..."


    Neither Lu Nianzhi nor Xu Chuan spoke. It was the little Xu Heng who was half asleep, with a red face and half-closed eyes, murmuring in his mouth.


    After sighing, he stopped talking and rested his mouth on Xu Chuan''s shoulder.


    With one hand supporting his son''s head, Xu Chuan looked at Lu Nianzhi with aplicated and worried expression.


    "Nian... you go back and stay safe."


    She didn''t allow him to apany her, so all he could do was give her this reminder.


    Lu Nianzhi ignored him, her mind still reying the words "the girl Dad loves" that little Xu Heng had said.


    Xu Chuan left with the child, and Huo Shao Ting was still here. Of course, Lu Nianzhi wouldn''t stay any longer.


    The hospital room had been tidied up by the nursing staff, clean and neat. They had also ced a perfectly blooming bouquet of flowers.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but hug his waist, resting her chin on his chest as she looked up at him, her voice soft and gentle. "Shao Ting, I think... you will also be an excellent and loving father like Xu Chuan."


    In the past life, there were many princes and princesses in the pce, each with their own mother. Although they woulde and pay respects to her as the queen, those concubines were not to be underestimated. Even the innocent children had long been taught to be shrewd.


    She had never truly experienced the feeling of being a mother.


    Today, little Xu Heng fulfilled her wish and alleviated the pain and sadness of losing her child.


    Hearing her words, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help but recall the scene moments ago when he was left behind while they were eating.


    But... if it were his and Rong''s child, he wouldn''t care too much.


    That child would be their bond.


    "Yes, I will."


    He lowered his gaze, gently kissed her forehead, and said in a soft voice.


    Rong Dai''s entire being nestled in his embrace as he nced at the time. She had been in the hospital for about four or five days now.


    Although everything was avable here, it still wasn''t as convenient as being in her own home.


    "Shaoting, I want to move back home. I can rest properly and recover just as well at home."


    "The hospital is crowded and noisy. I prefer the quiet here."


    "Besides, I had my check-up today, and I''m recovering well."


    "After returning home, I''ll pay attention to my diet, rest, and exercise. There shouldn''t be any major issues."


    She spoke softly, discussing with him.


    The most important thing was that once she returned home, she could do many things.


    While staying in the hospital, she always found herself thinking about the moment she entered the operating room, and she couldn''t help but think about her unborn child.

 Chapter 376: Wen Shilan鈥檚 Driver

    <h4>Chapter 376</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting was well aware of her intentions; he knew about her medical examination report.


    Although he really wanted her to stay here and recuperate for a while, because he knew she wouldn''t obediently stay in bed and rest if they went back home.


    But he was more worried that staying here would constantly remind her of the sorrowful past. No matter how luxurious and upscale the ce was, it was still a hospital.


    Today, she was unusually happy, and her sadness over losing the baby had diminished quite a bit.


    "Then let''s go back," he answered her with an indulgent tone, holding her in his arms.


    Rong Dai''s eyes immediately brightened, and she tiptoed to give his thin lips a kiss.


    Huo Shao Ting''s breath slightly caught as she approached him, arousing his intense passion.


    Sensing his change, Rong Dai didn''t dare to continue being yful.


    First, she felt sorry for him, and second, she was afraid that she wouldn''t be able to control herself in such intimate moments.


    The couple separated with silent understanding, and they didn''t have many belongings, so it was easy to pack up.


    Huo Shao Ting wrapped her in a thick and specially windproof down jacket, leaving only her two eyes exposed.


    Watching Huo Shao Ting carry her into the car, Rong Dai couldn''t help butugh and cry at the same time.


    The couple didn''t arrive home until around ten o''clock in the evening.


    As soon as they arrived home, Huo Shao Ting''s phone started ringing. Taking advantage of his pause to answer the call, Rong Dai climbed out of the down jacket herself.


    Seeing her small home, she stretchedzily, tidied up her things, and took a shower in the bathroom.


    She skillfully ced a sanitary pad this time, not daring to catch a chill. After changing into her home clothes, she draped a robe over herself.


    Coming downstairs, Huo Shao Ting was still on the phone. His face didn''t look good; it was very cold, with a hint of killing intent.


    Her heart skipped a beat, and she instinctively slowed her pace and walked up to him.


    Huo Shao Ting reached out and embraced her when he saw her approaching.


    Rong Dai could clearly hear Zhang Assistant''s voice on the phone.


    After he hung up, Rong Dai asked softly, "Did Brother Long get caught?"


    Huo Shao Ting put the phone aside, worried that standing for a long time would affect her health. He thenid her down on the sofa, cradling her in his arms.


    "He was caught. He''s still in Shengjing; he didn''t escape."


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow. "Is the most dangerous ce also the safest?"


    That statement only applied in specific circumstances.


    If it were an ordinary family instead of the powerful Huo family in Shengjing, they wouldn''t have been able to deal with Brother Long.


    But he was too arrogant.


    "This matter also involves someone else. Zhang Changdong is cooperating with the police to catch people tonight."


    Huo Shao Ting tidied up the loose strands of her hair, his voice deep and gentle.


    Rong Dai looked at him without asking, but her eyes already conveyed her curiosity.


    "It''s Yang Yue, Wen Shi Lan''s driver."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke, and Rong Dai noticed that his gaze became sharp and profound, indicating that there were many things she didn''t know.


    Little did she expect that Wen Shi Lan would end up in prison, and after the Wen family''spany was acquired by the Huo family, they moved overseas as a whole.


    Including Wen Runlin, who previously seemed to have a deep sibling bond with Wen Shi Lan, disappeared without a trace after Wen Shi Lan was sent to prison.


    In the vast city of Shengjing, the former glory of the Wen family no longer exists.


    She had some recollection of the driver who was by Wen Shi Lan''s side; he was a young man who appeared somewhat gloomy.


    Perhaps even Wen Shi Lan herself had not expected that while the people of the Wen family disregarded her life and death, there was only this one outsider who continued to do things he deemed worthwhile for her.

 Chapter 377: Invitation Cards for TK

    <h4>Chapter 377</h4>


    Rong Dai was very perceptive. Huo Shao Ting had already given her such an obvious hint that there were some details she could think through clearly if she just thought about it carefully.


    She even thought of Yang Wanwan''s situation.


    Yang Wanwan was cklisted, and the Huo family spread those kinds of rumors.


    Anyone who still wanted to make a living in this circle would be unwilling to offend the Huo family for her sake.


    Of course, except for someone like Zhu Li, but that was also because Yang Wanwan had done her a great favor.


    The scandals exposed about Yang Wanwan were enough for her to make many enemies.


    No matter what era it was, adding flowers to embroidery and kicking someone when they were down were things everyone would do.


    Especially denouncing Yang Wanwan, which was also effortless, and could also sell goodwill towards the Huo family.


    Why wouldn''t they do such a thing?


    But given Yang Wanwan''s situation, she could only hide away.


    Yetter her appearance changed drastically - she had surgery done on her face.


    Yang Wanwan wouldn''t have had that kind of money herself, nor a way to go abroad.


    So someone must have been helping her in secret.


    And that person must hate themselves to the core, just like her.


    Looking at it now, it did seem reasonable and could exin things.


    "So does Yang Wanwan''s situation also have something to do with him?"


    she asked Huo Shao Ting.


    "It will be investigated clearly. Anyone who hurt you will not get away from me," Huo Shao Ting said as he hugged her, not answering her question.


    The person had not been caught yet, so all of this was just their guesswork.


    Rong Dai nestled in his embrace, a wave of chill washing through her heart...


    The next morning Rong Dai got up a littlete. Her diet and exercise regimen followed the doctor��s orders.


    Since they were at home, Huo Shao Ting had also been working hard these days, getting up around the same time as her.


    He first made breakfast for Rong Dai before making a portion for himself.


    After the husband and wife finished breakfast together, Huo Shao Ting went to thepany.


    Although Rong Dai was preupied with what he had told herst night, she was in no hurry at the moment.


    She did some homework for a while. When the doorbell rang, she put on a cardigan and went to open the door.


    Lu Nianzhi''s face was slightly haggard, evidently greatly affected by yesterday��s conversation with Xu Chuan.


    "I''d like to talk to you about something, do you have time?"


    Lu Nianzhi looked at her, the emotions in her eyes clearly not right,cking her usual sharpness and vigor at work.


    Rong Dai nodded. She could also take a break.


    Lu Nianzhi sat on the sofa cradling a hot cup of tea. After drinking a couple sips, she took out two invitation cards from her bag.


    "These are the invitation cards TK gave you. I only received them this morning."


    "They probably felt handling things that way was still a bit inappropriate, so they sent out two more cards to you and your husband as a couple."


    "Their celebration banquet is tonight, but I guess you won''t be going. Mr. Huo won''t give you that chance either.��


    Lu Nianzhi handed her the invitation cards.


    Rong Dai looked at the two exquisitely made invitation cards, sensing the thick sarcasm from the other side.


    "I certainly won��t be going, but Shao Ting and you can."


    Lu Nianzhi furrowed her brows. Re-encountering Xu Chuan recently had disturbed her state of mind. Along with their conversation yesterday impacting her, her mind didn��t immediatelyprehend what Rong Dai meant.


    "Yang Yue was the one behind the schemes to frame me and put me in mortal danger."


    "So, if that TK employee can let something slip from his mouth, plus the information we have in hand, whether TK''s celebration banquet can still be called a celebration will be another matter."


    Rong Dai looked at those two beautifully crafted invitation cards with icy eyes - this was a ��death note�� the other side had personally delivered.


    If she didn��t go, it would be a bit of a let down for these gold foil invitations.

 Chapter 378: Lu Nianzhi鈥檚 Pain

    <h4>Chapter 378</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi naturally did not know anything about this person called Yang Yue.


    However, when Rong Dai said she and President Huo would attend this celebration banquet, she was rather looking forward to it.


    Just right, she was not feeling well, and could not vent at Xu Chuan''s ce, so she certainly could here at TK.


    Otherwise the money she had invested over the past few years would havepletely gone to waste, right?


    She felt it was even more unbearable than feeding a dog, especially after she saw those investigative reports from TK.


    "Last night I heard Zhang the assistant say they had caught that person called Brother Long. If President Huo''s methods are ruthless enough, if today he can get something useful from their mouths,��


    ��Then TK wanting to gain a foothold in the Huaxia market is simply wishful thinking."


    Lu Nianzhi sneered as she spoke.


    Rong Dai nodded. She had been staying at the hospital these past few days.


    Although Huo Shao Ting had told her some things about this, she was not very clear on the specifics.


    But she trusted Huo Shao Ting''s arrangements.


    "There is Shao Ting handling this matter, so don''t worry too much about it."


    "You don''t look well. You probably didn''t sleep wellst night? How did it go with Mr. Xu yesterday?"


    Rong Dai changed the subject. Lu Nianzhi��s current state was not suitable for discussing work.


    The fact that this Xu Chuan man could affect her for five years, Rong Dai could understand why she would be in this state now.


    Hearing her mention Xu Chuan, Lu Nianzhi''s expression wasplicated. She couldn''t help drinking another sip of tea from her cup.


    "We talked..."


    She slowly began to speak, but did not continue right away.


    Rong Dai was extremely patient, definitely a very qualified listener.


    "The video was recorded by Ling Yan. He was drugged."


    Lu Nianzhi said bitterly.


    This was such an old trick!


    If it had happened to another man, she would have scoffed in disdain.


    But hearing it from Xu Chuan��s mouth, and remembering how sincere he looked yesterday, she couldn''t help but believe him.


    Yet she was still unwilling to acknowledge it.


    To think that they had actually been defeated by a single drug tablet before, it was truly ironic!


    "So do you believe him?"


    Seeing her distressed expression, bothughing and self-deprecating, with various emotionsing out, Rong Dai asked.


    Lu Nianzhi shook her head, then nodded, and finally sighed bitterly: ��I...I don''t know either. After all, just separating like this, ending inexplicably, it really is...quite ironic."


    "Ling Yan did this just to get back at me, so Xu Chuan became her tool for revenge against me."


    "Is this my fault, or Xu Chuan''s fault? Or is it Ling Yan''s fault?"


    "I don''t even know who is really at fault in this matter. I thought about it all night, and still can''t figure it out now."


    Her expression was painful and confused.


    Listening to this, Rong Dai felt bad for her. As expected, no matter how smart one was, once caught up in emotional entanglements, there would still be times of confusion.


    "First of all, you did nothing wrong, so don''t me yourself. Why force yourself to admit you were wrong?" Rong Dai spoke up. Lu Nianzhi hade to confide in her.


    Since she came to confide, then she needed to be consoled.


    She would y the mediator once more, for little Hanhan''s sake.


    "If things really happened as Mr. Xu said, then from beginning to end, you and Mr. Xu are both victims."


    "Although Mr. Xu is not entirely without me in this matter, if this is the truth, then he is also a victim."


    "I imagine his pain over the years has been no less than yours. Now I want to know what you think."


    "If things really are this way, what do you want to do about it?"


    Rong Dai asked her.


    Lu Nianzhi stared nkly for a few seconds before shaking her head: "I...I don''t know either."


    "I don''t know if I should believe him, if I should forgive him... The impact of this matter on me is too deep. I really don''t know what to do."


    Lu Nianzhi''s expression was painful and anxious.

 Chapter 379: Being a Godmother

    <h4>Chapter 379</h4>


    Seeing the conflicted and pained expression on Lu Nianzhi''s face, Rong Dai let out a soft sigh in her heart.


    Love is like drinking water; only the person knows whether it''s warm or cold.


    Although Rong Dai wanted to console Lu Nianzhi, it was a personal struggle for her.


    Her guidance could only do so much for Lu Nianzhi; she had to figure things out on her own to move forward.


    "It''s okay. Don''t be too hard on yourself."


    "Give yourself some time."


    Rong Dai gently patted Lu Nianzhi''s shoulder tofort her.


    "I also need to take a break during this time. It''s a good opportunity for you to rest as well."


    "Thepany''s matters are almost taken care of. Once it starts operating, there will be many things that still require your attention."


    "Take this time to rest well and think clearly about your rtionship with Mr. Xu."


    "If you want to let go and forgive yourself, then do it wholeheartedly."


    "If you''re willing to ept him, then carefully consider your future together and how you want to proceed."


    Rong Dai felt she had said enough.


    From being a sister-inw to Qiao Wanzhou, and now to Lu Nianzhi.


    It seemed that the emotions of these three women were somewhat connected to her, to varying degrees. If this continued, she might be a professional matchmaker.


    Lu Nianzhi listened attentively to her words, even though Rong Dai was much younger than her.


    But strangely enough, Lu Nianzhi liked confiding in Rong Dai because there were some things others didn''t want to tell her.


    But Rong Dai would, and that''s what made her special.


    "Then I''ll go back first."


    Feeling emotionally overwhelmed, Lu Nianzhi didn''t want to disturb Rong Dai''s rest and left.


    Not long after seeing Lu Nianzhi off, Rong Dai''s phone rang.


    It was Qiao Wanzhou.


    Seemingly since thest time they publicly acknowledged their rtionship with Zhou Jing, Qiao Wanzhou hadn''t contacted her.


    And she had her own things to deal with, so the two of them hadn''t spoken in quite some time.


    As soon as the call connected, Qiao Wanzhou began "self-reflecting."


    Since thest press conference with Zhou Jing, Qiao''s family had been in an uproar.


    Zhou Jing''s injury hadn''t healed yet, and she herself needed to take care of her pregnancy.


    Unable to bear the disturbance, she decided to go on a vacation abroad with Zhou Jing.


    It was only today that she learned about all the things Rong Dai had been through recently, so she immediately called.


    Hearing her words, Rong Dai felt both warm and a bit amused.


    "I''m actually fine. Can you manage toe back from abroad with all your busyness?"


    "You''re still in the early stages of pregnancy. You shouldn''t overexert yourself. How is Zhou Jing''s injury?"


    She asked Qiao Wanzhou with a smile.


    "Don''t worry! I''ll take care of myself. Once the baby is born, I''ll make them recognize you as the godmother!"


    "I don''t care. You''re already the godmother!"


    Qiao Wanzhou was in a good mood, speaking cheerfully.


    Rong Dai felt a bit helpless. She knew that Qiao Wanzhou was trying to console herself in her own way.


    In her mind, she couldn''t help but think of the cute little radish head, Hengheng, from yesterday, and the tender and adorable face of the child. It made her incredibly soft-hearted.


    She smiled and replied to Qiao Wanzhou, "As long as you, the biological mother, are okay, would Zhou Jing dare to refuse?"


    Qiao Wanzhou''s words were filled with a hint of arrogance, but Rong Dai could also sense that she was currently leading a very happy life.


    "You should be more cautious in your daily life. Once my pregnancy stabilizes and Zhou Jing''s injury improves a bit, I''lle back."


    Qiao Wanzhou advised her.


    Rong Dai responded, and only then did the two of them hang up the phone.

 Chapter 380: TK鈥檚 Dirty Water

    <h4>Chapter 380</h4>


    After hanging up the phone with Qiao Wanzhou, Rong Dai also had nothing to do and lost the mood to rest.


    Thinking of the words she just said to Qiao Wanzhou, she would be the godmother of the child.


    Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing were both people who did notck money, one was the movie emperor and the other was the movie queen.


    Could theyck money?


    Every child is an angel to their parents. She simply went to the study to take drawing paper and pencils.


    Then she brewed a cup of red tea and put it on the coffee table, yed light music on her phone, drew patterns while nning to make a few small clothes for Qiao Wanzhou��s child.


    She drew it, and couldn''t stop.


    In an afternoon, she drew a full dozen sets, each very chic.


    Every pattern was drawn very carefully, showing she was very thoughtful.


    Until she heard the phone ring, she suddenly realized that the sky was already dark.


    Seeing that the caller ID showed her sister-inw, she quickly connected.


    "Sister-inw."


    On the other end of the phone, Rong Dai could hear that her sister-inw''s voice was tired.


    She said lightly: "Mei Shu, have you arrived in Hainan?"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded while responding, then sighed deeply.


    She lowered her voice and spoke heavily.


    "Sister-inw, I really have no one to talk to, but keeping things bottled up makes me ufortable."


    In the past two days, Huo Mei Shu had be quite haggard. There were many things happening at home, and Lu Zheng seemed to have be a different person.


    She was always simple-minded and didn''t think tooplicatedly about things.


    This time Lu Zheng��s change hit her hard.


    "What happened? Did mom throw a tantrum?"


    Rong Dai asked her.


    This time when mother-inw Lu Zheng erupted, even she was caught off guard.


    Huo Shao Jie and Huo Mei Shu were both raised by Lu Zheng with her own hands. The two of them were more uneptable than anyone else, which was normal.


    She thought of what Lu Nianzhi had told her yesterday. Before mother-inw Lu Zheng left Shenjing, she took away two sets of Lu family jewels.


    With the tantrum she threw, I''m afraid those two aunts from Lu family would also kick up a fuss.


    "My older brother is not at home, right?"


    Hearing Rong Dai ask, Huo Mei Shu suddenly remembered this problem and quickly lowered her voice to ask her.


    "No, he��s been busy with things at thepany these days."


    Rong Dai answered lightly, and then heard her sister-inw breathe a sigh of relief over the phone.


    "That''s good then."


    Huo Mei Shu said, stroking her chest and exhaling.


    "Sister-inw, I just can''t figure out why my mother became like this?"


    "She didn''t use to be this kind of person. Why has she be so unreasonable now?"


    "Those two sets of jewelry were left by my grandparents. Everyone in the family knew she liked jewelry."


    "During the New Year, the two aunts let her take a look when she said she wanted to see them."


    "But I didn''t expect her to directly take the jewelry for herself. These two days, both aunts have been taking turns calling me and my second brother."


    "My second brother and I are about to go crazy. But my mother is still desperately not letting me and my second brothere back."


    Once Huo Mei Shu opened her chatter box, she couldn''t help but pour out her bitterness.


    Rong Dai listened quietly to herin. As for her mother-inw''s behavior, she was not surprised at all.


    "Huo Mei Shu! Who is your mother after all?! Who are you calling?!"


    As soon as her sister-inw finished venting to her, Rong Dai heard the mother-inw''s roar over the phone.


    She subconsciously held the phone away from herself a bit. Before she could say anything, Huo Mei Shu had already hung up on that end.


    Rong Dai sighed lightly at the phone, and then saw a headline news pop up in her phone.


    She clicked it open and saw it was TK''s news.


    She almost forgot that TK''s celebration banquet was tonight!


    The one speaking to the camera was Ha Wei. These entertainment journalists would ask questions specifically to whichever one.


    In the shot, the entertainment journalist asked Ha Wei what she and Huo Shao Ting thought about not attending the celebration banquet.


    Ha Wei''s answer was very subtle, but both inside and out it could be heard that the husband and wife were very arrogant, disdainful of attending TK''s celebration banquet.

 Chapter 381: True Love

    <h4>Chapter 381</h4>


    Rong Dai looked at Ha Wei on the screen of her phone, and said with a restrained yet regretful look on her face. Herplexion involuntarily turned cold.


    Were they arrogant?


    When had they ever been arrogant?


    TK''s way of doing things really made her look at them with admiration!


    Rong Dai was d in her heart that she had made such a decisive decision that day to not cooperate with TK.


    Otherwise, who knows what would have happened in the future after getting on TK''s pirate ship!


    Originally, she still had some hesitation in her heart, after all, the truth of the matter had not been made clear.


    But now with Ha Wei answering the entertainment reporter like this, it shattered thest bit of goodwill she had towards TK.


    As someone also in this industry, she was very clear just how much heart and effort designers pour into the creation of a work.


    Putting aside how TK is now, at least when TK first rose to prominence in the fashion world and steadfastly sat on the throne as the fashion leader, it made her full of admiration.


    It was just a pity for such a brand.


    TK had their own feelings about their home country, and their fellow Chinese also had their own feelings about their home country.


    They were tolerant and passionate, but that did not mean anyone coulde to skim some benefits, or that anyone coulde to take a sip of their blood.


    With TK doing something so foolish, naturally she no longer had any psychological burden either.


    She was browsing the news with a cold face when Huo Shao Ting��s phone call came in.


    "Shao Ting."


    Herplexion instantly turned soft and gentle, her voice coquettish and warm.


    Hearing her voice, the gloominess that had shrouded Huo Shao Ting''s face all day also eased up in an instant, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.


    "Everything has been taken care of, tonight will be TK''s end."


    Although his voice was light, Rong Dai could still hear the anger in his words.


    "To be more precise, it''s a good opportunity for my wife to shine."


    Huo Shao Ting thought for a moment before adding another sentence, his deep eyes full of indulgence.


    If he didn''t still have things to deal with now, he would have rushed home after work to hold her in his arms.


    Even if they didn''t do anything, just having her by his side made him feel at ease.


    Rong Dai keenly picked up on the deeper meaning behind his words and asked, "Was it Brother Long or Yang Yue who assigned you some task?"


    Huo Shao Ting had no intention of keeping her in suspense, and told her the results obtained from the interrogation.


    Rong Dai frowned as she listened.


    It made no surprising discovery that Brother Long and the Blind Old Woman were just hired helpers.


    What was suspicious was Yang Yue - although he admitted everything was nned by him, she still felt something was off.


    If she wasn''t inconvenient to go out now, she would definitely meet this Yang Yue in person.


    She really wanted to know, is it really worth it to go insane for loving someone?


    Shouldn''t loving someone mean hoping the other person can also feel warmth and goodwill?


    Why were the mindsets of Wen Shi Lan and Yang Yue so bizarre?


    One wanted to destroy anything unattainable.


    The other wanted to help the former destroy what she wanted to ruin.


    How was this love?


    This was clearly just selfishness and foolishness!


    "Yang Yue really admitted it just like that?"


    She asked full of doubt.


    All she heard from the other end of the phone was the man''s low and indulgent chuckle, "I knew you were clever."


    Rong Dai let out a soft snort, a proud look on her charming face, "Of course!"


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly, then earnestly analyzed it for her.


    "What Yang Yue said was all true, but he still concealed some matters."


    "When he was at the Wen household he got to know some people, and his mind was rather sharp. He''s been Wen Shi Lan''s full-time driver these past few years, with very good pay."


    "I had someone check on his assets, totalling over 10 million."


    Rong Dai clicked her tongue in wonder. For someone who was just a full-time driver by Wen Shi Lan''s side, to have personal assets starting from 10 million... this was undoubtedly true love.

 Chapter 382: Attending the Celebration Party

    <h4>Chapter 382</h4>


    "The source of his wealth is very clear, but his identity and status are not enough for him to reach into the interior of TK."


    "TK is very cautious. They probably guessed that we would go looking for that employee, so TK is watching very closely."


    "So you suspect that Yang Yue is in cahoots with the people from Jinxiu Fang, but even if it was found out, the people from Jinxiu Fang didn''t make a move."


    "Then the unlucky one would be Yang Yue alone. He firmly believes Jinxiu Fang would help himplete the rest of the matter?"


    Before Huo Shao Ting could finish speaking, Rong Dai immediately guessed.


    "It''s pretty much like that. The current interrogation results show that he has admitted to everything, including what happened with Yang Wanwan."


    Huo Shao Ting responded, and his voice suddenly turned much colder.


    When Rong Dai heard this, her heart froze.


    Sure enough, it really matched the old ancestor''s old saying.


    It''s better to offend a gentleman than a viin.


    Whether it was Wen Shi Lan or Zuo Ran.


    Or Yang Wanwan, or this Yang Yue.


    They were all sinister viins.


    The dangers she had experienced recently were all rted to them.


    Then the child she lost was brought about by Yang Yue!


    Rong Dai''s heart burned with anger. She and Yang Yue werepletely strangers to each other.


    Simply because of Wen Shi Lan, he had put her in mortal danger!


    Since Wen Shi Lan had framed her like that, if Yang Yue loved her, why did he just stand by and watch Wen Shi Lan make mistakes?


    "Shao Ting, I want to see Yang Yue, and I also want...to attend TK''s celebration banquet."


    She knitted her delicate brows, her charming face turned cold, and she spoke in a low voice.


    It wasn''t pleading, but telling him of her decision.


    Hearing her firm tone, Huo Shao Ting felt helpless. He knew she couldn''t let it go.


    "Go change your clothes first, and I''lle to pick you upter. I''ll bring a doctor to examine you first."


    "If there are no issues, I''ll agree. Otherwise, you won''t be allowed to go anywhere."


    He knew what this matter meant to her.


    Her request to see Yang Yue was also within his expectations.


    Hearing him say this, Rong Dai secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    If he didn''t let her go out, she really would have no way.


    Firstly, she didn''t want him to worry about her.


    Secondly, she didn''t dare to joke around with her own health.


    In her past life it was one thing, but this time it was purely due to her own carelessness.


    If her body was healthy, her child might still be in her belly now. In a few more months she would be able to see the soft, chubby little face of her child.


    It was just that she had lost this opportunity herself.


    "I''ll listen to you."


    She obediently responded.


    Huo Shao Ting felt helpless. She knew very well that he would give in to her "coercion", yet she still acted cute after taking advantage of him. He really had no way to deal with her.


    Afterwards, the couple hung up the phone. Huo Shao Ting gave some instructions to his assistant Zhang before getting up to go downstairs to drive his car, first to pick up the family doctor before returning to their little home.


    When Huo Shao Ting brought the family doctor home, Rong Dai was already dressed neatly.


    The family doctor didn''t ask much. He took the equipment and examined Rong Dai.


    "Chairman Huo, your wife''s recovery is very good, and all indicators are normal values."


    "For this period of time, keep to a light diet."


    The examination didn''t take very long, no more than fifteen minutes.


    Hearing what the family doctor said, Rong Dai immediately looked at Huo Shao Ting with bright eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded. The family doctor then left with his assistant and equipment.


    "Can I go see people now?"


    After the people left, Rong Dai was afraid that he would go back on his word, so she took the initiative to "strike first".


    She walked up to him, tiptoeing with her arms around his neck, looking into his eyes and asking.

 Chapter 383: I Pity You

    <h4>Chapter 383</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting gently held her slender waist with both hands, looking down at her eyes, and said helplessly, "Can I still refuse now?"


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, her head gently leaning against his chest.


    Although he knew her body was no longer in danger, Huo Shao Ting still thoughtfully took a thin coat to tenderly wrap around her before leaving.


    Rong Dai was not cold at all. She smiled yfully and mocked him, "Mr. Huo, have you forgotten that we are going to attend someone else''s celebration banquetter?"


    Huo Shao Ting was driving, one hand holding her slender hand. He replied, "Since it''s someone else''s, there''s no need to give them too much face."


    Rong Dai sighed lightly, not saying anything more, afraid to disturb his driving.


    Yang Yue and that man called Brother Long had already been taken to the police station.


    Because they were a couple involved in the incident, it was not difficult to see Yang Yue. Moreover, Rong Dai was still the victim.


    Rong Dai did not let Huo Shao Ting apany her into the interrogation room. Outside, he could still see what was happening inside the interrogation room.


    Yang Yue was still wearing a crisp suit, only it looked a little wrinkled.


    Rong Dai did not have a deep impression of Yang Yue. She had only seen Yang Yue pick up Wen Shi Lan, nothing more.


    Looking at the stranger in front of her, she could not have imagined that someone who was unrted to her would try every means to put her to death.


    She looked Yang Yue up and down without saying a word.


    Seeing her appear here, Yang Yue was not surprised at all, as if he had expected her to definitelye.


    He nced at the other side of the interrogation room wall, a gloomy smile appearing on his face before he turned to look at her.


    "I didn''t expect Mrs. Huo to personallye to see me, a prisoner under the steps."


    The mockery in his words was obvious.


    Rong Dai ignored his mockery. Her eyes were deep and she stared closely at Yang Yue.


    "Do you really think that what you did was to avenge Wen Shi Lan?"


    "Or do you think Wen Shi Lan would be very happy now that you are locked up here for what you have done?"


    As she spoke, her gaze towards Yang Yue was icy cold and full of contempt.


    "I really feel sorry for you!"


    She said sarcastically. Hearing her words, Yang Yue''s eyes suddenly turned fierce!


    Unfortunately, he was handcuffed to the interrogation chair, so Rong Dai was not worried that he could do anything to her.


    "Maybe Wen Shi Lan would be happy when she finds out about this."


    She looked at Yang Yue with mocking eyes. The corner of her mouth suddenly lifted into a smile, smiling slyly and profoundly, difficult to fathom.


    "But in my guess, Wen Shi Lan''s happiness would onlyst a few seconds."


    "Then she would denounce you for being useless and ipetent!"


    "Because you can''t even deal with me, a woman with no power to truss a chicken. Let alone help her overturn her case to get her out of that prison sooner."


    Rong Dai''s tone suddenly became yful and full of sarcasm and ridicule.


    Yang Yue''s face darkened as he stared at her ominously!


    "You are just a petty crook whose life she spared. To her, you are less than even a pet dog by her side."


    Rong Dai was not afraid to provoke him at all and continued speaking.


    She wanted to provoke Yang Yue!


    People only reveal secrets hidden in their hearts when they lose control of their emotions!


    She just wanted to know if Jin Xiu Fang was still working with him behind the scenes to plot against her!


    "To be honest, I both sympathize and pity you, but I despise you even more."


    "Neither you nor Wen Shi Lan understand what love is."


    "One thinks love is possession, the other thinks love is silent dedication."


    Rong Dai looked at him disdainfully. These two people were quite interesting.

 Chapter 384: How Many people are in the Way

    <h4>Chapter 384</h4>


    "Shut up! Do I need your pity?!"


    Rong Dai''s words did stimte Yang Yue greatly, so much so that he mmed the chair and red at her with rounded, red eyes shouting, "You!!!"


    Outside the interrogation room, Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed into a bunch. Lu Hong hurriedly pulled him saying, "Sister-inw is very smart, she won''t be scared by him."


    Otherwise, it''s not impossible that this guy would rush into the interrogation room and start hitting people.


    "You love her so humbly, but has Wen Shi Lan ever looked at you properly even once?"


    "If you don''t pity me, who will?"


    Rong Dai had intended to provoke him on purpose all along, so how could she really be frightened by him?


    "Is that so? What about you then?"


    "If not for your pretty face, do you think you could have entered the Huo family''s door?"


    "Shi Lan is simply too naive, too honest, that''s why she fell into your trap!"


    "I should have bet my life back then to drag you down to hell with me!"


    Hearing her words, Yang Yue did not get angry but smiled instead.


    His smile on his face was grim and icy cold, and his words made people''s hair stand on end!


    Rong Dai was slightly surprised, this Yang Yue had an extraordinary temperament.


    If he had money and power, he would definitely be a very scary person!


    It''s just a pity that he came across a woman like Wen Shi Lan.


    "Naive? Honest?"


    She couldn''t help but shake her head lightly andugh, this is indeed how lovers see Xi Shi in their partners.


    Even their ws can be merits.


    Not only that, but they can also deliberately beautify their partner''s image in their hearts.


    Her expression gradually became cold and solemn.


    "If you really loved Wen Shi Lan, you should have stopped her from making mistakes back then, and helped her make amends."


    "Instead of continuing her mistakes here. What you''re doing is not love, it''s currying favor."


    "It''s just wagging your tail and begging for Wen Shi Lan to nce at you one more time."


    "If I were Wen Shi Lan, I wouldn''t even look at you."


    Rong Dai didn''tugh, she just stared at him, her eyes full of pity andpassion.


    Of course, she was only pitying his foolish devotion.


    "If you loved her, she wouldn''t benguishing away her youth in prison now."


    "Wen Shi Lan ending up like she did today, you''re partly to me, her ending up in prison is also thanks to you ying a part."


    "So what right do you have to condemn and resent me?"


    Her questioning made Yang Yue''s face instantly turn ghastly white, he was shocked and also a little dumbfounded.


    But soon he reacted.


    "You almost trapped me, no wonder Shi Lan fell into your hands!"


    Yang Yue said coldly while staring at her.


    "I did everything myself, Rong Dai. Did you think I only wanted you dead?"


    He stared at Rong Dai, his voice extremely cold, and also somewhat gloating.


    Back then when he was nning all this, he had already considered that there would be this day.


    He just underestimated Huo Shao Ting''s capabilities, but luckily everything had already been arranged.


    This gift would make Huo Shao Ting peel ayer of skin!


    Shi Lan loved him so much, what right did he have to hurt her like that?


    And even let her spend her precious youthnguishing away behind iron bars, how could he possibly swallow this insult?!


    "From beginning to end on your journey here, just by marrying into the Huo family alone, how many people''s roads did you block?"


    Yang Yue asked back sinisterly.


    "And you walked this road so high-profilely, I''m afraid that even you yourself don''t know how many people you offended."


    "Madam Huo, I wish you good luck!"


    Yang Yue''s smile was very bright, but it exuded an indescribable gloomy cold, and his tone was also sarcastic.


    Of course Rong Dai was not afraid of him, but his tone made her very ufortable.


    She stared at Yang Yue for a few seconds, knowing that he wouldn''t say anything more useful from his mouth.


    She stood up, gently pulled her coat, and looked down at him like a queen.


    "I dare not say anything else, but my luck is definitely better than yours. I hope Mr. Yang enjoys his time in prison in the next half of his life!"

 Chapter 385: The Man Without a Family

    <h4>Chapter 385</h4>


    After leaving the interrogation room empty-handed, Rong Dai was not too disappointed.


    Yang Yue was able to secretly n so many things behind the scenes. His cunning was not something that a character like Yang Wanwan couldpare to.


    So she was not too surprised, she just felt a little confused and regretful.


    From Yang Yue''s words just now, he did seem to be secretly harming her in order to avenge Wen Shi Lan.


    Although he did not give too much information, she had to admit one thing.


    When she married into the Huo Family and became Huo Shao Ting''s wife, she did block many people''s way.


    The Huo Family is currently flourishing, and the business is involved in a wide range of fields.


    Most importantly, the Huo Family cooperates with the military, which is not something anypany can easily achieve.


    But Huo''s Enterprise has this capability.


    Although because of mother-inw Lu Zheng, the rtionship between the Huo Family and Lu Family is a little awkward now.


    But it does not affect the interests between them.


    The Lu Family is well aware of the importance of Huo''s Enterprise, and they are also well aware of the mother-inw''s personality.


    This matter will also fade after a period of time.


    And there are many wealthy families in Shengjing, not just the Huo Family.


    But there is only one Huo Shao Ting and only one Huo Family.


    So many people are longing to marry into the Huo Family, so the transfer of interestses naturally.


    This kind of family alliances is very normal.


    Although An Feiya left her arge inheritance, this money is just a drop in the bucket to those wealthy families.


    She cannot be considered a wealthy family.


    Especially since she has no background behind her, her marriage with Huo Shao Ting has shattered the beautiful dreams of so many prestigious families.


    They dare not resent Huo Shao Ting, but they do dare to spite her.


    She had experienced suchplicated scheming countless times in her previous life.


    The women''s world is as bloody and cruel as the fight between men.


    "If you feel ufortable, we won''t go. We can just eat in the restaurant."


    Seeing here out, Huo Shao Ting quickly walked over to her side and gently held her shoulder as he softly said.


    Rong Dai looked up at him with a smile and shook her head. "No, I want to go."


    Her eyes were firm. Since all preparations had been made, why wait?


    Today was the best opportunity!


    She admitted that what Yang Yue said was the truth, but she is Rong Dai, the Rong Dai who was the queen for thirty years in her previous life.


    What did she have to fear?


    Troopse to block, wateres to seal. She will meet plot with counter plot!


    She does not actively provoke trouble, but that does not mean she is weak and easily bullied!


    Especially with Shao Ting by her side, what did she have to fear?


    Seeing that her mood had improved again, Huo Shao Ting finally felt relieved.


    "Big brother, sister-inw, this is the police station. Don''t be all lovey-dovey here, there are so many lonely wolf cubs here! My teeth have gone sour!"


    Lu Hong came over with a USB drive and handed it to Huo Shao Ting.


    Seeing the intimate appearance of the couple, he endured the sourness of his teeth and teased them.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed. She subconsciously distanced herself from Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting took the USB drive, but did not take Lu Hong''s words to heart. Instead, he simply put his arm around her shoulders.


    "People without a family would not understand how I feel."


    His words were light, but the disdain and arrogance in his tone was strong.


    Lu Hong:"..."


    Damn!


    Having a family makes you so great!


    These words he only dared to mutter to himself, he did not even dare say half a word out loud.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly towards him, then left with Huo Shao Ting to the hotel where TK''s celebration banquet was held.

 Chapter 386: We can鈥檛 Get Together.

    <h4>Chapter 386</h4>


    Half an hourter, Rong Dai and her husband Huo Shao Ting arrived at the venue for the TK celebration banquet. Since her miscarriage, Huo Shao Ting''s exclusive car had been sent for cleaning.


    Although the car they drove today was also luxurious, it didn''t cause much of a sensation in Shengjing City, as there were many simr cars around.


    "CEO, everything has been arranged," Zhang Assistant said as the couple entered through the back door of the hotel. He had juste out of the elevator and quickly nced at Rong Dai before respectfully addressing Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded and handed a USB drive to Zhang Assistant.


    His expression was cold, and his deep eyes looked sinister. "Once all the people have arrived at the venue, start it."


    Zhang Assistant took the USB drive and nced at Rong Dai before hesitating to speak.


    "CEO, it seems that TK might not be able to gather all the invited guests today."


    Rong Dai raised an eyebrow, unable to contain her curiosity. "What do you mean by ''not able to gather''?"


    Zhang Assistant was also puzzled. He shook his head and replied, "I haven''t investigated that yet."


    "But many famous celebrities who received the invitation from TK aren''ting. They imed to havest-minute engagements."


    "If it were just a few people who had sudden matters to attend to, it would be understandable."


    "But more than a hundred people canceled their attendance all at once."


    "Currently, there are fewer than a hundred people at the venue, mostly from the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, with over twenty high-ranking officials present."


    Rong Dai instinctively looked at Huo Shao Ting.


    "I don''t have that much influence. It''s not because of me," he answered, holding her hand.


    "That''s strange. Could TK have received some kind of damaging information?" Rong Dai was also perplexed.


    Just as she finished speaking, her phone vibrated in her handbag.


    She took it out and saw that it was a call from Qiao Wanzhou.


    The phone was vibrating urgently, so Rong Dai quickly answered it.


    "Rong Dai, don''t think I''m not loyal just because I''m abroad!"


    "I was furious when I heard about TK stepping on you and your husband, so I helped you vent your anger."


    "After all these years in the industry, I still have some connections."


    "And most importantly, TK has offended the bigshot in your family without realizing it. With just a small favor from me, they''ll be in hot water."


    "Not offending TK, and not embarrassing myself��it''s a win-win!"


    Qiao Wanzhou''s tone had be much livelier, making it pleasant to listen to.


    Rong Dai was momentarily stunned but quickly realized what Qiao Wanzhou had done.


    "So, Qiao Miss is the one responsible for the missing guests at the TK venue?"


    She couldn''t help but find it amusing.


    What could she say to Qiao Wanzhou? If they made a little inquiry, they would find out what she had done. Would they still treat her nicely?


    But it didn''t seem to matter anymore, as after today, the TK brand in China would likely be erased.


    "So, how about it? Isn''t your sister impressive?" Qiao Wanzhou asked,ughing.


    "Yes, very impressive!" Rong Dai chuckled. After chatting with her for a while, she hung up the phone.


    "Was it Miss Qiao who did this?"


    Zhang Assistant was astonished but considering Qiao Wanzhou''s connections andwork within the circle, not to mention that everyone in this circle is skilled at reading people''s expressions, it made sense.


    Isn''t TK risking his life by relentlessly belittling the CEO and his wife? Isn''t he practically asking for trouble?


    Rong Dai nodded, turned her head to look at Huo Shao Ting, and reached out to hold his arm, smiling as she said, "But she also said that these people are just going with the flow and they still fear your power."

 Chapter 387: You鈥檒l Like Regret Even More

    <h4>Chapter 387</h4>


    If it were someone else saying this, Huo Shao Ting would definitely not buy it, even if it were the truth. But hearing this from his own wife, he was very pleased.


    Zhang Assistant walked behind the couple, unable to help touching his nose, silently marveling at how love makes everyone look beautiful in their partner''s eyes.


    He reckoned that even if Madam farted, the President would think it smelled fragrant.


    When the couple appeared at the TK event venue, some entertainment journalists were stunned for a moment, then the shbulbs fiercely snapped pictures of the couple!


    "Didn''t they say the couple disdaineding?" One journalist asked while snapping photos, puzzled.


    "Take the photos first, there''s a lot of content today!"


    "Haven''t you noticed? When Boss Huo and his wife came, the people from TK and Brocade Embroidery Workshop were very surprised!" Someone quietly reminded them, and soon others also noticed the astonishment on TK head Ha Wei''s face.


    Seeing that Huo Shao Ting couple had actuallye to attend their celebration banquet, it did make Ha Wei very shocked.


    After all, he still remembered what he had said.


    He was not afraid of Huo Shao Ting, or Huo''s Enterprise. He was not Chinese after all.


    No matter how powerful Huo Shao Ting was, he could only reach as far as China, right?


    The previous incident at the warehouse had caught him off guard, and he also admired Rong Dai''s talent.


    But he had never been so humiliated before!


    All the nice things he had said before were just to try and draw favour from this big tree.


    After all, it was good to take shelter under a big tree!


    But he didn''t expect this couple to not give him any face at all, and gave him such a big embarrassment that day!


    Yet he didn''t expect that today they had just casually said a few words in front of reporters, and this couple had actuallye!


    Seeing the long guns and short cannon aimed at him, his assistant quickly reminded him to watch his facial expressions.


    Ha Wei reflexively nced at those entertainment journalists, and his face instantly revealed an enthusiastic smile as he walked over to the Rong Dai couple.


    "Boss Huo, I thought Madam Rong was unwell, so you two would be absent!"


    "If that were so, it would really be TK''s regret. I didn''t expect you two to actuallye! I''m so delighted!"


    "It looks like Madam Rong has recovered, how fortunate!"


    Although Ha Wei''s Mandarin had an ent, for a foreigner, this level of vocabry was already very good.


    Rong Dai had an inscrutable smile on her face. With one hand on Huo Shao Ting''s arm, she just lightly nodded her head without speaking.


    Having reached his status today, Huo Shao Ting did not need to give anyone face.


    So what if TK was already an internationally prestigious brand?


    His expression was frosty. His height was already taller than average to begin with. Looking cold like this gave people an immense sense of oppression and intimidation.


    Seeing the couple not speaking, the enthusiastic smile on Ha Wei''s face grew somewhat stiff.


    "Believe me, after today, you will be more willing to have some regrets."


    It was only after a few seconds that Huo Shao Ting calmly spoke.


    At this time, Shi Ning also led some top executives from Brocade Embroidery Workshop over. Getting the cooperation with TK this time was an extremely thrilling process for them.


    Fortunately they still got it in the end!


    Shi Ning looked at Rong Dai, her gaze involuntarily moving to the coldly handsome Huo Shao Ting beside her.


    This man really did not have any woman who could resist him.


    This included her as well.


    Remembering Yang Yue''s words in her heart, when Rong Dai saw Shi Ning lead people over to show off their sess, Rong Dai''s gaze also fell upon her.


    And the look Shi Ning gave Huo Shao Ting was also caught by her.

 Chapter 388: I Need to Know You

    <h4>Chapter 388</h4>


    Women''s intuition has always been keen, and Shi Ning''s eyes...


    Rong Dai''s eyebrows furrowed slightly, but it passed in an instant.


    "Mr. Huo, hello, I''m Shi Ning."


    Shi Ning walked elegantly up to the couple, simr in age to Rong Dai, but having been exposed to these profound things since a young age.


    Thus, she carried an innate gentle and tranquil aura like a secluded lotus. It was rare to see her taking the initiative to be so enthusiastic.


    Shi Ning smiled lightly as she stretched out her hand. Huo Shao Ting only gave her a cold, piercing nce.


    "Do I need to know you?"


    His retort made Shi Ning''s confident smile freeze slightly, unable to stop a sh of annoyance in her beautiful eyes.


    Rong Dai captured all these subtle expressions clearly.


    Shi Ning still found a way to descend the stairs herself, smiling as she withdrew her hand. Her gaze turned to Rong Dai.


    "Mr. Huo handles things of importance daily, so of course he doesn''t need to know me, but I know of Mr. Huo and Ms. Rong by your side."


    She didn''t address Rong Dai as Mrs. Huo, but as Ms. Rong instead.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile wryly to herself, Shi Ning was being too obvious. She really wasn''t very tactful.


    If it were her, even if she wanted to vex the other party, as long as they hadn''tpletely torn apart, she would never be so rude.


    "Ms. Rong''s embroidery skills are exquisite, very impressive to me."


    "At Granny Qiao''s birthdayst time, I was too busy and mixed up my work with Ms. Rong''s."


    "I didn''t expect that to cause misunderstandings, making Ms. Rong think I had giarized her work!"


    She said this very tactfully and prettily, both admitting her own mistake and implying that Rong Dai was narrow-minded.


    "I regret that Ms. Rong has withdrawn from thepetition this time. After all, there are few who I want topete against."


    Shi Ning seemed to feel that wasn''t enough, adding another sentence herself.


    Rong Dai just listened quietly, a faint smile constantly hanging on her enchanting and gorgeous face.


    There was some depth difficult to fathom in her slightly gray eyes.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect Shi Ning to admit her own error in this kind of asion, but her words werepletely different from the situation at Granny Qiao''s back then.


    But it had been so long since the incident happened?


    Who could prove that she had actually giarized Rong Dai''s work?


    If she tried hard to exin herself now, wouldn''t that just confirm her reputation for pettiness?


    "I see, I had almost forgotten about it if Miss Shi hadn''t brought it up."


    "Now that I think about it, there does seem to have been something like that."


    "I didn''t expect Miss Shi to still remember such an insignificant matter so clearly."


    Rong Dai responded lightly with a smile, only after the other party had finished speaking for a few seconds.


    Her reply was even prettier than Shi Ning''s, effortlessly tossing the ck pot Shi Ning had put on her head right back again.


    She wasn''t afraid of these little tricks in verbal spars!


    This was all thanks to those imperial concubines from her past life. If not for each of them being outstanding people that honed her skills, she wouldn''t have been able to cultivate such ability.


    "Let''s go rest over there. What is there to say to a stranger?"


    Huo Shao Ting wasn''t an idiot either, naturally able to discern the implicit meaning in Shi Ning''s words.


    This displeased him greatly.


    But there were more pressing matters, and he cared more about Rong Dai''s health.


    Although the doctor had examined her, what kind of crappy venue was this? There wasn''t even heating! Were they trying to freeze his wife to death?

 Chapter 389: Look at the screen first.

    <h4>Chapter 389</h4>


    When he finished speaking, he took Rong Dai''s hand and walked to the other side of the conference hall, sitting down with her, apparently not treating this ce as TK''s home court.


    In order to demonstrate the sess of TK''s debut in China this time, Ha Wei had also gone all out to invite all the reporters he could.


    A full one third of the venue was dedicated to these reporters. Apart from the constant shing at the opening, the highlight was undoubtedly this moment.


    - All attention was focused on Rong Dai and her husband.


    This made Ha Wei look very unhappy, but there was nothing he could do about it.


    He was also a little confused and nervous in his heart. This couple, especially Huo Shao Ting''s face.


    No matter how he looked at them, they did not seem to havee to celebrate, but rather to mourn for TK.


    Shi Ning''s face didn''t look much better.


    Seeing this couple sitting together, Rong Dai looking so happy, her sharp nails were digging into her palms.


    Rong Dai''s appearance had disrupted many of her ns and affairs.


    Her presence was already seriously affecting her status in her grandmother''s eyes, which she would never allow!


    "Mr. Huo..."


    "No hurry, let''s watch the screen first."


    Ha Wei was very annoyed to see Huo Shao Tingpletely ignoring his status as host, but when he had just opened his mouth, Huo Shao Ting lightly said "No hurry, let''s watch the screen first." His gaze fell on the big screen in the conference hall.


    This big screen was originally going to y a clip of TK''s journey from its founding until now.


    But now something that shouldn''t be on it appeared.


    Ha Wei was puzzled and turned to look.


    When he saw the words and edited videos on the screen, his face changed drastically, and he hurriedly went to reprimand the security personnel, demanding that they immediately turn off the big screen!


    But how could Huo Shao Ting allow that?


    Before Ha Wei could leave, arge number of security personnel poured into the conference hall, although they were all Huo Shao Ting''s people.


    All those who wanted to leave were stopped.


    The entertainment reporters present were instantly starry-eyed and boiled over!


    One after another, they held up their video equipment to record the explosive information on the big screen, some entertainment reporters took the lead in grabbing hot spots, contacting high-level executives on the spot, and sending over materials.


    "Have you had Nianzhi''s materials investigated?"


    Rong Dai had only seen the materials Lu Nianzhi had given her, so when she saw the contents disyed on the big screen,


    she knew that it would be impossible for TK to gain a foothold in the Chinese market this time.


    "Don''t you trust your husband to do things?" Huo Shao Ting nced at her, his voice slightly upturned, mixed with some dissatisfaction.


    Seeing him like this, Rong Dai couldn''t help but chuckle lightly: "I trust you, it''s just that you didn''t tell me in advance, so of course I was worried..."


    Seeing that he was dissatisfied, Rong Dai naturally had her ways to deal with him.


    The me immediately fell on Huo Shao Ting himself.


    Huo Shao Ting was helpless, looking at her with extremely doting eyes.


    Who made her the one he married? He would dare to take on any me, as long as it wasn''t green.


    "Actually I was worried that TK would y a trick on us. Although information is developed now,"


    "But Western and Eastern civilizations seem to have merged, but the true understanding of each other''s information is still very closed off."


    "Since TK had its sights set on this market, it must have made a lot of preparations."


    Rong Dai gave him a serious exnation of her concerns.


    "It''s been checked out, there won''t be any problems, don''t worry."


    Huo Shao Ting answered her in a low voice. He had originally wanted to kiss her forehead.


    But remembering her previous reminder, he held back and just gently stroked her earlobe instead.

 Chapter 390: Panic in a Pot

    <h4>Chapter 390</h4>


    Rong Dai pretended to re angrily at him, but there was a hint of a smile at the corner of Huo Shao Ting''s mouth.


    The entire TK delegation at the event was in a panic, and even the top executives of Jinxiu Ward had ugly expressions on their faces.


    Shi Ning naturally had an unpleasant expression as well.


    The information leaked on the screen, once exposed, would even affect Jinxiu Ward!


    Shi Ning''s face turned slightly pale. Seeing the blissful smile on Rong Dai''s face, she clenched her assistant tightly.


    "CEO Shi, what should we do now?"


    "The leak is definite, and that would also harm Jinxiu Ward!"


    The assistant also profoundly understood the serious implications of the matter.


    This would mildly damage Jinxiu Ward''s reputation and even cause them to lose fans!


    "Do I even need to tell you this?"


    Shi Ning snapped irritably at her assistant.


    "Shi Ning, how did you investigate this? You have some exining to do to thepany now!"


    Before Shi Ning could react, somepany executives came over to embarrass her.


    Shi Ning''s expression darkened as she glowered at the executives in front of her.


    "My investigation? My exnation?"


    "Is this the first time ourpany is working with TK? In the short time I''ve been at thepany, how would I know this?"


    "Do I not care about thepany''s well-being?"


    "Now that there is an incident, instead of convening the senior executives for an emergency meeting to handle it, you''re here to harass me?"


    "I now have good reason to suspect that you were aware of this long ago and intentionally hid it from me!"


    Shi Ning''s eloquence was quick-witted, especially at shifting me.


    The executive she confronted was rendered speechless and could only snort angrily as he walked away to make a phone call.


    Meanwhile, the reporters on the scene reacted quickly and immediately sent the news to the hot searches as soon as the information leaked, across over ten media outlets simultaneously!


    The news exploded and online users were instantly outraged!


    TK''s recently created Weibo ount in China had nearly over 100 million followers initially, but quickly started hemorrhaging followers, with livid and indignantments:


    To kick TK out of China! We do not wee you!


    Bolded and reddened!


    Particrly eye-catching!


    In an instant, TK''s celebratory g became a "ughterhouse", ughtering themselves of course.


    The showbiz journalists who were invited to cover the event were also especially hardworking.


    This time, TK perfectly demonstrated what it meant to "lift a rock only to drop it on one''s own foot".


    Harvey''s face was ghastly pale as he slumped limply to the ground, seemingly in despair.


    Of course he knew if this sensational news was true or false. It couldn''t be any more real!


    He was well aware of the vices among the higher echelons too. This was part of why they were hesitant to enter the China market all along.


    Yet, such is the state of global affairs presently, that no one could resist the temptations of China''s enormous market!


    But with today''s expos��, TK would no longer gain any foothold in China.


    Harvey was tremendously furious. As the leaks continued disying on therge screen, he knew it was futile to stop it.


    He also had no desire to wallow in the muck with TK! After all, he had alreadyted substantial gains.


    As he mbered up from the ground, he took out his phone and made an overseas call.


    Upon answering, he heard a nonchnt voice, which prompted Harvey''s outraged diatribe!


    Although at a distance, Rong Dai could hear Harvey''s loud bellows clearly.


    Even if spoken in French, it was not difficult for Rong Dai, having studied thenguage diligently for months already.


    Yet unexpectedly, Harvey dered his resignation on the spot, refusing to work any further!


    However, resigning as and when he pleased, who was he to im that?

 Chapter 391: Give a Chance

    <h4>Chapter 391</h4>


    The content on the big screen was captivating, and Ha Wei grew tired of cursing toward the end.


    He was well aware that as a high-ranking official in TK, it was impossible for him to resign so easily.


    He had thought that this trip to China would be a pleasant journey.


    But he never expected it to turn out like this!


    Although the grand show was a sess, it was marred by the exposure of such scandalous material, making it impossible to open the counter.


    As a foreigner, he was well aware of some foreigners'' views towards the Chinese people.


    In simple terms, it was racial discrimination.


    It''s just that they didn''t dare to say it out loud because of China''s current strength.


    However, during his time in China, he thoroughly understood the Chinese people''s patriotism.


    Even if you humiliated him, it was fine, but humiliating someone''s country was not eptable.


    Are there not enough cautionary tales?


    Ha Wei regretted why he hade to China. After this incident, he would probably never dare toe to China again.


    "Let''s go."


    Rong Dai saw that things were almost over, and TK would never appear in the Chinese market again.


    She had already achieved her goal, so she didn''t have much to fuss about regarding what happened in the warehouse.


    Although Yang Yue admitted it was his doing, money alone was not enough; he also needed power.


    It was easier for the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, as they had been partners with TK for many years.


    If the Brocade Embroidery Workshop wanted to meddle, it would be effortless.


    The venue was in amotion, and the entertainment reporters who had wanted to interview the couple when they were leaving changed their minds upon seeing Huo Shao Ting''s cold and stern face.


    Rong Dai nced at Shi Ning, who was making a phone call in the distance. She had initially wanted to say a few words to the reporters.


    But after giving it some thought, she decided against it.


    "Weren''t there things you wanted to say just now?"


    After leaving the venue, Huo Shao Ting asked her.


    Rong Dai adjusted her coat slightly and answered him with a faint smile, "There were things I wanted to say, but I prefer to give some people a chance."


    At the same time, it was also her chance to confirm whether these matters were indeed rted to the Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    Seeing that she deliberately remained mysterious, Huo Shao Ting didn''t ask further. He carefully helped her into the car.


    In fact, he hadn''t gone all out with this incident. If he had, the Brocade Embroidery Workshop would have suffered as well.


    Although Yang Yue denied it, based on the breadcrumbs they found, it was impossible to absolve the Brocade Embroidery Workshop from involvement.


    He had promised to help her achieve sess and protect her, but there were some things that the little woman had to handle on her own.


    Prestige was not something he could help her establish.


    Only she could do it herself. He was just an auxiliary role, assisting her without stealing her spotlight.


    The couple left the hotelter on, with Huo Shao Ting focused on driving while Rong Dai nced at the explosive news on her phone.


    It was all about TK.


    Yang Yue and Brother Long were arrested, and they awaited imprisonment.


    And TK would no longer appear in China.


    Only the Brocade Embroidery Workshop remained.


    If it really was the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, she wouldn''t hesitate.


    She wouldn''t show mercy to anyone who deceived, humiliated, or harmed her.


    After ncing at her phone and setting it aside, she looked up and observed the pedestrians bustling outside the car window.


    Her thoughts drifted to the elderlydy residing alone in the Huo Mansion.


    "Shao Ting, let''s apany Grandma for hot pot tonight. Otherwise, with the weather getting hotter, she won''t be able to handle it," she said, reaching out to hold his warm hand and looking at him from the side, her voice gentle.


    A smile formed at the corner of Huo Shao Ting''s mouth, and he replied in a simrly soft voice, "Alright."

 Chapter 392: Don鈥檛 Speak for Her

    <h4>Chapter 392</h4>


    Because of what happened to TK at today''s celebration banquet, there was a storm across the entirework, and tonight in Shenjing was also not calm.


    As Brocade Embroidery Workshop was TK''s long-term partner, when something happened to TK, even though Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s position in China''s fashion industry was prominent, it was also questioned.


    This was a fatal blow to Brocade Embroidery Workshop!


    If Brocade Embroidery Workshop did not handle this well, with its position declining, there were many people who wanted to bring down Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    In this era, there was never ack ofpetitors.


    And there would always be a group of people on the Inte who, regardless of whether you were rted to them or not, as long as what you did displeased them or made them unhappy or they didn''t like what they saw, they would criticize you.


    Brocade Embroidery Workshop imed to have a prominent position in China, and in recent years its development had made it even more unpopr.


    With something like this happening, some people were delighted to see it fall.


    TK was scolded, so Brocade Embroidery Workshop could not be spared either.


    And Shi Ning happened to be the person in charge this time. Plus, Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s senior management had opposed her taking over Brocade Embroidery Workshop in the first ce.


    This incident happened to give them sufficient reason.


    Shi Ning looked at the senior management in the conference room, her face flushed red with anger!


    She had not stinted on giving these old guys benefits in the past, but had not expected that she still could not satisfy the greed of these greedy people!


    "Granny!"


    She could only seek help from Shi Yue Master.


    Shi Yue Master sat in her chair without saying a word.


    When she first founded Brocade Embroidery Workshop, although she started from nothing, many people among this senior management had apanied her through hardships all the way.


    And Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s shareholders had different shareholdings. Shi Ning did not have any shares in Brocade Embroidery Workshop, she only held a position.


    Even if she gave all her shares to Shi Ning, it would not be enough for Shi Ning to firmly keep this position.


    Previously, she had seen potential in Rong Dai. That girl was smart and level-headed, and calm.


    And for someone so young to have such exquisite embroidery skills, if Rong Dai could be by Shi Ning''s side to assist her, Brocade Embroidery Workshop would be Shi Ning''s.


    It was a pity her n did not seed.


    And now, because of the shocking exposure from the married couple, Brocade Embroidery Workshop was also implicated.


    "Granny, don''t you have anything to say in my defense?"


    Seeing that Shi Yue Master remained silent, Shi Ning was a little exasperated.


    After so many years, wherever she went, she had always been surrounded and praised by others. She had never been so frustrated before.


    Hearing her call out, Shi Yue Master looked up and stared at her deeply before turning to look at the shareholders.


    In contrast to the turmoil within Brocade Embroidery Workshop and the storm on the Inte, the Huo residence was unusually calm.


    Old Madam had not had Lu Zheng''s room cleared out by Wang Ma, it was just locked up.


    With three people missing from the household all of a sudden, it felt exceptionally quiet.


    Huo Old Madam had not been in good spirits these past few days.


    She felt heartache for Huo Shao Ting bearing this secret for over twenty years, and was also furious at Lu Zheng''s behavior.


    But the deceased had passed on, what more could this old woman do?


    The person had been sent off to Hainan now, it would be very difficult to meet in the future.


    That car ident back then was bizarre, and no traces were left at the scene either.


    Although it could not be directly proven that the car''s brake failure was Huo Jun''s doing, if the car had been borrowed out the day before, then the matter could be exined clearly.


    "Granny, try this fish ball, it''s very tender."


    Rong Dai knew that the old madam had knots in her heart over this matter. It was difficult for anyone to ept such a thing after finding out about it.


    This was not something that could be epted and moved on from within three to five days.


    "You should eat too. You''ve only just recovered, eat well and go back with Shao Ting soon."


    "There''s Wang Ma and Uncle Li at home, you don''t need to worry."


    Huo Old Madam nodded, and also urged her likewise.


    Rong Dai nodded, and quietly apanied Huo Old Madam to finish dinner before leaving the Huo residence.

 Chapter 393: Inescapable Fate

    <h4>Chapter 393</h4>


    "Grandma is very unhappy, this is not good for her health."


    When Rong Dai and her husband returned to Huafoshan City, she was perceptive. Just now at the Huo''s house during dinner, how could she not feel the olddy''s mood?


    She knew that the knot between her mother-inw Lu Zheng and the olddy was impossible to untie.


    However, the Huo family was also facing crises everywhere now, at least Huo Second Master''s side had not given up yet.


    She knew that Huo Shao Ting had the ability to resolve everything, but she would still worry.


    She didn''t understand business battles. If the olddy was by Huo Shao Ting''s side, she would feel much more at ease.


    "It''s fine, don''t underestimate her."


    With just one look at her, Huo Shao Ting knew what she was worried about. He hugged her from behind, resting his chin in the crook of her neck, sniffing her fragrance.


    "I know what you''re worried about, I''m already arranging things."


    "I said I would be a diligent and responsible husband, and let you lead afortable and happy life."


    He gave her his assurance again.


    "You just need to do what you want to do, I''ll take care of everything behind the scenes."


    If he couldn''t even reassure his own wife in his career, that would be too much of a failure.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, turned around and hugged him back, looking into his eyes and said, "I''m not doubting your capabilities, I believe in your excellence."


    "I just don''t trust human nature. Since Huo Second Master''s family dared to do such a thing back then, they had already abandoned this kinship."


    "Back then...they definitely won''t go easy on you either."


    Her words were full of worry.


    She wasn''t doubting Huo Shao Ting''s business capabilities, just that no matter how capable he was, he was no match for the sinister schemes of Huo Second Master''s family.


    There is a saying, it''s easy to avoid visible danger but difficult to prevent a hidden attack.


    Thinking of everything she had experienced recently, although she had also experienced storms in her previous life.


    But now when she thought back, it still made her heart race.


    Whether it was Zuo Ran, Yang Wanwan,


    or even Shi Ning.


    They weren''t just simply targeting her, but wanted her life!


    Although she hadn''t met her father-inw, she believed in Huo Shao Ting.


    The things he said may not have direct evidence to prove it was Huo Second Master''s people, but how could there be so many coincidences?


    Since they could bear to kill her father-inw, they would definitely not show any mercy towards Shao Ting, and it would likely be even more vicious!


    It was just that Shao Ting was too capable now that they couldn''t contend against him, so they could only temporarily hold back.


    But if given the chance, they would bite down and not let go!


    "I understand, for your sake, for our little family, I will be careful."


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart softened.


    For over twenty years, no one had ever said such words to him.


    Everyone around him believed he was a god with an iron body, who would never be defeated.


    But because he stood so tall, he could see some dangers that others couldn''t.


    Yet only she would say these things to him.


    "That''s good then..."


    Rong Dai leaned against him, reassured by his response.


    At least he would remain vignt.


    The TK and Brocade Hut incidents had taught Rong Dai a painful lesson!


    It wasn''t that she was willing to let matters rest, it was that others wouldn''t let her off so easily.


    She was now in the position of Mrs. Huo. Some things weren''t about whether she was willing or not, but that some people had already deemed her as a thorn in their side.


    Thinking of Shi Ning from the Brocade Hut, she suddenly recalled how Shi Ning had looked at Huo Shao Ting today, making her feel slightly ufortable.


    And there were also the things that Qiao Wanzhou had said at the Qiao''s previously.


    If she hadn''t gotten to know Zhou Jing and Qiao Wanzhou afterwards, she would have believed it.


    After all, the man beside her was just too outstanding!


    So outstanding that even knowing she was Mrs. Huo, that he already had a family, there would still be people desperately throwing themselves at him.


    It seemed that no matter if it was her previous life or present, she was destined to contend against concubines.

 Chapter 394: It鈥檚 Been You My whole Life.

    <h4>Chapter 394</h4>


    "What are you thinking about?"


    Huo Shao Ting lowered his head to look at her. Seeing theplex and strange expression on her charming face, he couldn''t help asking her.


    Rong Dai looked up at him with a cunning smile full of slyness on her pretty face.


    She gently wriggled out of his embrace and went to sit on the sofa, signaling him toe over as well.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t hesitate and went over, even bringing a small thin nket to cover her legs.


    The new reced sofa was very spacious. Huo Shao Ting trapped her inside and stared at her closely with his eyes, unwilling to look away.


    Seeing him looking so serious, Rong Dai felt a bit amused and helpless.


    "I was just thinking of something interesting, that''s all."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t answer her, only kept staring at her,pletely with an attitude that if you don''t tell me, I''ll just keep looking at you.


    Rong Dai was helpless with him. She ced her hands on his chest, "Shao Ting, you''re too outstanding, so wherever you go, you''ll attract the coveting of other women."


    "Even if they clearly know that I''m already your proper and openly recognized wife, they would still pounce on you."


    Her tone was heavy and helpless, yet full of pride at the same time.


    "If they pounce on me, I''ll also kick them away."


    Before she could finish speaking, Huo Shao Ting was already eager to rify his stance,pletely different from his cool and wise style when handling things at thepany.


    "Also, I won''t give them a chance to pounce on me. This chance belongs exclusively to you, my wife, for a lifetime."


    He added softly, she was the person he had decided to grow old together with.


    Moreover, he only wanted to walk this path with her.


    Taking good care of her in this lifetime was already an extremely important responsibility, as for other women.


    He didn''t have the heart, energy nor willingness to bother with them.


    His sweet words made Rong Dai feel extremely contented, but she still had to tease him a little.


    "Or how about I open a harem for you? Our house is big enough, having 3-5 more people wouldn''t be an issue."


    "Do you need me to help vet and bring in some concubines for you, President Huo? It would put my heart at ease too, so that I won''t have to worry about you being taken away by others all the time."


    She smiled slyly like a little fox. Huo Shao Ting knew clearly that she was deliberately teasing him, yet he still couldn''t help feeling stifled in his heart.


    Breathing heavily, he leaned in and sucked on her lips, lightly biting them a little as punishment.


    "I don''t need concubines."


    "It''s different here, Rong''er."


    After biting her, he raised his hand to caress her face as he looked at her solemnly.


    "I have a wife. I don''t need concubines or mistresses."


    "You are my lover, and also my wife. That''s how it will be for this lifetime."


    Rong Dai had originally wanted to joke around with him to lighten up the atmosphere today, but she didn''t expect him to take it so seriously.


    "I...won''t joke with you like this anymore in the future."


    She looked into his eyes, feeling a tinge of self-me.


    In her past life, using this seemingly joking method to teach or pry for information she wanted wasmon practice among concubines in the pce.


    Unconsciously, she had picked up this skillset too. She didn''t expect that this bad habit still hadn''t changed.


    He had mentioned before that he would take her words seriously.


    This was a habit she must get rid of.


    "You can joke around, but you need to know my heart only has you in it."


    "I don''t have the energy to deal with others. All my energy is spent on you, understand?"


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t me her. His voice was gentle as he exhorted her, hugging her into his embrace. Taking the chance, he kissed her cheek twice more.


    Just as the husband and wife were having an intimate moment on the sofa, Rong Dai''s phone vibrated inopportunely.

 Chapter 395: Keep Her Busy

    <h4>Chapter 395</h4>


    Her face flushed red, and she gave him an annoyed, coy nce, gently pushing him away and taking the phone from him.


    "Sister Nianzhi Lu, did something happen?"


    Generally if nothing was going on, Lu Nianzhi wouldn''t call her at this time.


    "There''s no particrly important matter, I''ve already gotten thepany affairs in order and sent the documents to your work email."


    "I''m going abroad on a trip tomorrow. Too much has happened in Shenjing since I returned."


    "You''re right, I do need some quiet time to think things over between me and Xu Chuan. This tangled mess has had too big an impact on me."


    Lu Nianzhi sighed as she exined. She was also very frustrated with her current contradictory state.


    The tone in her voice no longer held that brisk and straightforward air of a strong career woman that Rong Dai was used to hearing when she first met her.


    Now there was only a heavy sense of weariness and bewilderment.


    Having worked together with Lu Nianzhi for such a long time, Rong Dai wasn''t an unfeeling machine. She felt somewhat distressed over her situation.


    If it wasn''t for twists of fate, Lu Nianzhi and Xu Chuan''s lives wouldn''t be like this now.


    "No problem, go rx and travel at ease. I''ll handle things on this end." Rong Dai replied softly. The two talked a bit more about work matters before hanging up.


    "Sister Nianzhi is going abroad to travel and unwind." After putting down her phone, she turned and embraced Huo Shao Ting''s neck, telling him about it.


    Huo Shao Ting murmured in acknowledgment. Lu Nianzhi''s state recently has indeed been off, properly adjusting isn''t a big deal.


    "My health has recovered now, the TK incident has passed, and I want to get back to work."


    "Thepany is still understaffed right now, I''ll need to personally interview and deliberate."


    She blinked her dark eyes at him. Though she wasn''t acting coy, this expression was clearly meant to charm him.


    "As for Jinxiufang... let''s wait and observe for now. After all, we don''t have any proof."


    She thought for a moment before adding thatst bit.


    Today, she had given Jinxiufang, or rather Shi Ning to be more precise, an opportunity.


    If Shi Ning treasured this chance given by Jinxiufang, perhaps certain things wouldn''t happen.


    Huo Shao Ting looked down at her. He knew that confining her at home would only torment her.


    "I''ll take good care of myself and won''t let my health deteriorate again, I promise." Seeing that he didn''t immediately agree, Rong Dai promptly held up three fingers in oath, her gaze exceptionally sincere as she looked at him.


    Withpetition being so intense now, TK''s failure at their China debut performance also damaged Jinxiufang''s reputation.


    To her this wasn''t just an opportunity, but an opportunity for others as well.


    Opportunities slipped by in an instant.


    She couldn''t always rely on Huo Shao Ting''s help to resolve every issue for her. She needed to grow.


    Seeing her like this, Huo Shao Ting let out a soft helpless sigh and stroked her cheek. "Do you need me to send someone else to your side?"


    He never wished for her to overexert herself or constantly worry about so many things.


    But he understood her radiance couldn''t be obscured.


    He would step back and stand behind her, bing her staunch backbone.


    If she ever grew tired or upset, she just had to turn around and she would still have him there.


    Rong Dai shook her head. "Having Sister Nianzhi is enough, I want to discover and nurture the rest of the people myself."


    "Otherwise, who does thispany belong to? You or me?" She humphed, but warmth still filled her heart.


    She knew he meant well, but she couldn''t live under his wings forever.


    Otherwise, those women always eyeing Shao Ting would absolutely seize any chance without mercy the moment it appeared.


    She had to guard her own prosperity, so she needed to strengthen herself.

 Chapter 396: Tie Him a Tie

    <h4>Chapter 396</h4>


    "Then go ahead and do it, remember that I am always behind you."


    Huo Shao Ting said softly, lowering his head to kiss her forehead.


    During this time, she had been very dependent on him, and he also enjoyed the feeling of being depended on by her.


    If she was willing, he didn''t mind going on like this, because he was willing.


    However, he knew that his wife was not an ordinary woman, destined to be extraordinary.


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly felt a little lost and sad, although he knew she was not leaving him.


    But thinking that she would leave his wings to make her own way, he had a kind of indescribable worry.


    "I will."


    "Shao Ting, you have to believe me, just as I believe in you."


    She hugged him, her head against his chest, and answered him in a clear, shallow voice.


    She naturally understood his worries.


    But she could not live as timidly as in her previous life again. In this life she just wanted to follow her own heart and live well once.


    ...


    In the morning, the spring scenery of March was bright and charming, just like the mood of a young girl harbouring spring.


    The flowers and trees in the courtyard had sprouted tender buds that had grown quite long. The air had a faint scent of grass and trees.


    Rong Dai had slept soundlyst night and got up very early in the morning.


    Holding books and tablets, she studied in the courtyard until the brilliant sunshine climbed onto her toes before putting away her books and finished notes and getting up to make breakfast in the kitchen.


    Huo Shao Ting had been very busy recently andcked sleep, so he got up a littleter today.


    Seeing Rong Dai busy in the kitchen when he came downstairs, his heart softened instantly and he walked quickly into the kitchen.


    "Why don''t you sleep a little longer?"


    He asked softly, taking the opportunity to kiss her cheek and naturally reached out to take the spoon from her hand.


    "With you by my side, I sleep very well and wake up early."


    Rong Dai looked at him brightly, obviously in a very good mood.


    After the couple was busy in the kitchen for a while, the hot breakfast was freshly cooked.


    Hot white porridge, chopped fruits, stir fried vegetables, steamed sweet potatoes, and buns made by Rong Dai.


    Simple yet nutritious.


    After breakfast, when Huo Shao Ting was about to leave, Rong Dai saw him tying his tie and brought him his suit jacket.


    "I want to learn this."


    Looking at him, her white and tender cheeks were flushed, as if blush had been applied, because she was in good spirits.


    She pointed to Huo Shao Ting''s tie, her eyes a little expectant.


    There wasn''t much she could do for him, so at home, or in some small details between the two, she wanted to do her best.


    Huo Shao Ting gently raised his eyebrows, undid the tie he had just tied, and taught her patiently.


    Although Rong Dai''s learning ability was strong, tying a tie really stumped her.


    Seeing the tie she had tied a little crooked, she was a little embarrassed.


    "It''s as if these hands are more used to embroidery needles ..."


    She self-deprecatingly joked about herself.


    But Huo Shao Ting gently put his arm around her slender waist, and lightly pecked her lips: "It''s okay, I like it."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, and after sending him off, the huge house became quiet.


    She went upstairs to change her clothes. She had learned from a makeup artist at the studio for a while, so now it was no longer difficult for her to simply put on light makeup.


    She changed her usual style today, wearing a beige suit, high heels, looking capable and elegant, with a queenly air about her.


    She couldn''t drive, but her personal bodyguard could.


    Sitting in the car on the way to thepany, Rong Dai was in a very good mood.

 Chapter 397: Come Work for Her

    <h4>Chapter 397</h4>


    "Feel free to sit around here or find a ce to rest," Rong Dai instructed the bodyguard as she got out of the car.


    "Madam, the president instructed me to protect you closely," the bodyguard replied solemnly, his face stern.


    Rong Dai sighed, "Alright, then find a ce to rest in thepany."


    The bodyguard nodded and went to park the car.


    Rong Dai walked to the entrance of thepany. Lu Nianzhi had excellent execution abilities, and thepany''s decoration was done ording to her requirements.


    It had a simple yet elegant style, which Rong Dai liked.


    She opened thepany''s door and saw that the courtyard was adorned with flowers and nts. There was a pond with a group of koi fish, and the ground was covered with pebbles and aquatic nts.


    She checked each room one by one, and she was very satisfied with both the office area and the embroidery workshop.


    Though the ce was small, it had everything needed.


    She sat down in her own office area. Next to her, there was a French window that overlooked the corridor, and on the other side of the corridor was the employees'' office area.


    After sitting for a while and feeling the chair, she took out some documents and read them for a while. Then, she nced at the time and called her two friends.


    Half an hourter, Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi arrived.


    As the two entered the courtyard, they felt like they were entering someone''s home rather than apany, if not for the office facilities they saw inside.


    "Please have a seat. What kind of tea would you like? ck tea, green tea, or herbal tea?" Rong Dai greeted them with a faint smile, putting down her thermos cup.


    Seeing the two of them, Rong Dai inadvertently surprised them. Her transformation was so significant that they would have mistaken her for someone else if not for her face.


    "No, no. We don''t need anything. Rong Dai, please sit down first," Liang Jiayi quickly shook her head, looking at her with a mix of nervousness and concern. She wanted to ask but didn''t dare, so she let Rong Dai sit first.


    Rong Dai knew they had doubts in their hearts. After all, the incidents she had been involved in recently were trending on Weibo every day. It would be difficult for them not to know.


    She still brewed ck tea for the two of them before sitting on the guest sofa.


    Carefully, Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi took a sip of the ck tea and couldn''t help but curiously look around the environment.


    "Rong Dai, is this really yourpany? What about Miss Lu, who contacted us a couple of days ago..." Song Xuechun put down her teacup, her eyes filled with surprise and incredulity.


    Although her family was wealthy, it couldn''tpare to the likes of the Huo family.


    She had always wanted to have her own design studio, but her family strongly opposed it when she studied design.


    If she were to start a studio now, her parents wouldn''t support her.


    But relying on her own abilities, it would be extremely difficult.


    She didn''t expect Rong Dai to quietly start her ownpany. Although the scale didn''t seemrge, it was already impressive.


    After all, Rong Dai was only twenty-two years old!


    Rong Dai nodded. She also didn''t expect Lu Nianzhi to set up thepany so well.


    "How do you like it here?" she asked, smiling lightly at the two of them.


    "We love it! If we hadn''t seen the office area here, we wouldn''t have believed it was apany!" Liang Jiayi nodded in agreement.


    Rong Dai crossed her hands on her knees, her beautiful eyes focused as she asked them seriously, "Would you be interested in working here with me?"


    "I know you''re still in school, but it won''t interfere with your studies."


    "As you can see, my studio is quite small."


    "This is just the beginning; I n to expand thepany, and the scale will growrger in the future."


    "I need reliable people by my side, to start this venture together. Once thepany is officially running, you will also receive shares."

 Chapter 398: Too many Shares

    <h4>Chapter 398</h4>


    "This is the agreement. You can take a look first."


    Rong Dai handed two copies of the agreement to the two individuals.


    Liang Jiayi took the agreement and started reading it attentively, while Song Xuechun simply took the agreement and ced it on the table, her gaze fixed on Rong Dai.


    "Dai''er, how are you feeling?"


    "We knew you were in trouble, but we couldn''t do much to help. I''ve been hesitant to call you."


    Song Xuechun inquired.


    Sitting next to her, Liang Jiayi heard her speaking and quickly averted her eyes. She also ced the agreement on the table and looked at Rong Dai with a hint of guilt.


    Rong Dai smiled faintly, "I''m feeling better now, there''s nothing to worry about."


    "Take a good look at the contents of the agreement. If you find anything unsatisfactory, you can raise it."


    Song Xuechun, who had a quick temper, became angry when she realized that Rong Dai couldn''t do without the agreement in just a few words. She immediately sat beside her.


    "We''re friends, do you think I would trick you?"


    "You''ve already asked, how can I refuse?"


    "TK has truly done something despicable this time. I''ve liked him for so many years, but I never expected that I was infatuated with a pile of garbage!"


    Song Xuechun clenched her fist and said indignantly.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile wryly, but she hade to understand Song Xuechun''s character.


    "Well then... let me take a look."


    Liang Jiayi was more cautious by nature. Although her family background was decent, it still paled inparison to Song Xuechun''s.


    Rong Dai nodded; she liked this kind of clear distinction between public and private matters.


    "However, by doing this, you will offend the Brocade Embroidery Workshop. Have you thought about how to handle it?"


    Song Xuechun''s mind wasn''t focused on the agreement; she was thinking about what had happened in the past few days.


    Now that she saw Rong Dai had opened a studio, she couldn''t help but worry for her in light of recent events.


    Rong Dai shook her head, "When the enemyes, we will meet them head-on."


    "Even if TK didn''t provoke me and Shaoting this time, once those stains ur, they will exist."


    "Whether it was exposed yesterday, or maybe tomorrow or the day after, it doesn''t matter when."


    "As long as TK harbors ill intentions, he will eventually fall from grace."


    "The Brocade Embroidery Workshop has benefited from TK''s fame over the years, and they have gained convenient profits from it."


    "If they have enjoyed the benefits, it''s only natural that they will be affected. I won''t fear them because of this."


    Her tone was calm, yet resolute.


    If she feared the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, she wouldn''t have gone to the venue yesterday.


    She had already experienced death once, so what was there to be afraid of?


    Upon hearing her words, Song Xuechun couldn''t help but admire her, her eyes sparkling as she raised her thumb, saying, "You truly are my Dai''er! I didn''t misjudge you!"


    "Don''t worry, sis, I''ll support you all the way!"


    Song Xuechun''s personality didn''t match her name. She was a bit carefree and bold.


    "Rong Dai, isn''t this a bit too much? We haven''t even graduated, and we don''t have much fame..."


    As soon as Song Xuechun finished speaking, Liang Jiayi, holding the agreement, looked at Rong Dai with a mix of astonishment and confusion on her face.


    "Not much," Rong Dai shook her head. While it may seem like a significant portion, each person''s ten percent stake is indeed quite substantial.


    If this were argepany, these shares would undoubtedly carry considerable weight.


    However, in her case, it''s just a studio. If she''s unwilling to offer even this modest benefit, how can she expect her employees to work diligently?

 Chapter 399: Give Yourself a Deadline

    <h4>Chapter 399</h4>


    "Ten percent of the shares is not a lot, because I need to groom core members of thepany around me. If I''m not even willing to take out this little bit of benefit, would you be willing toe?" Rong Dai looked at the two of them with a faint smile as she exined.


    "My studio is still very small-scale, at least for now."


    "With your talents, as soon as you graduate, there will be many goodpanies trying to recruit you, and the sries they offer may be more than the ten percent of shares I''m offering."


    She had her considerations for offering these shares.


    For her studio to develop, she had to have core members. No matter how the staff below them changed around, these core members had to remain steady for at least the next five years.


    Otherwise, if any one of the core members left, it would be hugely detrimental for her, especially the designers.


    There was a hint of an overlord use in this, but even if she had to shortchange herself, she would not shortchange partners who worked hard with her.


    "Also, in the agreement below, you haven''t seen yet that to get these ten percent of shares, you need to guarantee not leaving thepany for five years."


    She had originally wanted to require ten years initially.


    But after discussing with Lu Nianzhi, she changed it to five years.


    Because if after five years, herpany still wanted the core members to leave, the profitability of thepany would be easy to imagine.


    So whether it was five or ten years, if the end result was the same, no matter how good the conditions given in the agreement, those who wanted to leave would still leave.


    These five years were also a deadline she was giving herself.


    Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi were not totally ignorant young girls. After all, their parents had built fortunes from nothing, so from growing up watching them, they understood a little bit about things in the workce.


    "If that''s the case, then it still seems reasonably fair."


    Song Xuechun always spoke her mind directly in front of Rong Dai. She used to be a little more cautious about Rong Dai''s temper previously.


    But after noticing Rong Dai''s change, she had be bolder, speaking whatever popped into her mind without restraint.


    Liang Jiayi wanted to remind her, but Song Xuechun was sitting too far away for her to discreetly give a reminder. She could only sigh inwardly.


    With a personality like hers, she was bound to suffer losses sooner orter!


    Putting aside Rong Dai''s current change, she just had a feeling Rong Dai''s scheming had deepenedpared to before.


    With Song Xuechun''s blunt personality, she could offend someone without even realizing it.


    "If after five years you''re still willing to stay with thepany, we can sign a new contract and I''ll also increase your shares."


    "You''re both studying design, so you also know that marketpetition is intense now."


    "Jinxiufang has always been at the top in this field. With Jinxiufang affected this time, for many people, this is an opportunity."


    "Especially in this age of information explosion, I want every work produced by mypany to be the highest quality."


    As Rong Dai exined, with the current scale of her studio, ten percent of shares really was not much.


    "You don''t need to exin this stuff to me. I won''t understand anyway. I just want to create the works I want."


    "I''ve loved design since I was little. Beautiful clothes, everyone likes them. I don''t have any baggage. As long as the pay you give is enough for me to eat and dress warmly, that''s good enough for me!" Song Xuechun replied with a smile, unable to resist standing up again to look around the ce where she would work in future.


    It was within Rong Dai''s expectations that Song Xuechun would agree so readily.


    "What about you, Jiayi?"


    She looked at Liang Jiayi to ask.


    Liang Jiayi''s thinking was meticulous. Rong Dai had seen her works before too. If she could be groomed well, with time and good operations, developing herpany in future would just be a matter of time.


    But she didn''t want to force anyone either.


    "If you have any other concerns, that''s fine too. After all, your studies should still be your priority for now."

 Chapter 400: Liang Jiayi鈥檚 Hesitation

    <h4>Chapter 400</h4>


    "Jiayi, why don''t youe along?"


    "Now that Dai''er is the wife of the Huo Corporation, are you afraid she''ll ruin thepany?"


    "We can be an iron triangle, wouldn''t that be great?"


    Song Xuechun waspletely oblivious to Liang Jiayi''s changing emotions and excitedly spoke.


    Rong Dai, being perceptive, noticed Jiayi''s hesitation.


    "Jiayi, you don''t need to feel pressured. If you want toe,e. Today, I''m just seeking your opinions, not asking you to sign the agreement right away."


    "My assistant is taking care of some personal matters and won''t be back for a few days. You can take your time to think about it. There''s no rush."


    What she needed was willing partners who woulde to work with her voluntarily. Forcing someone wouldn''t yield sweet results.


    Moreover, she didn''t want to interfere with Jiayi''s own thoughts and use the friendship between her and the previous owner to bind her.


    Upon hearing this, Jiayi nodded apologetically.


    Song Xuechun''s face immediately fell, and she walked straight to Jiayi, asking, "Jiayi, what do you mean? Didn''t we discuss this before?"


    "We were supposed to work together in the samepany and fulfill our own dreams, right?"


    "Now that Dai''er has given us such a great opportunity, why won''t you agree?"


    Helpless, Rong Dai realized that Song Xuechun had noticed her change and was letting herself go, disregarding the situation.


    By asking Jiayi such a question in front of her, wasn''t she putting Jiayi in an awkward position?


    "Xuechun, Jiayi has her own considerations and ns."


    "While I really want you both toe and work with me, I want you toe willingly and without any concerns."


    She looked at both of them and exined earnestly.


    Liang Jiayi rubbed the hem of her clothes, her face slightly flushed. After hesitating for a while, she said, "It''s not that I don''t want toe. It''s just that I''ve already submitted my application for an exchange student program, and my advisor informed me of the results this morning."


    "When did you submit it? Why didn''t I know?"


    As soon as she finished speaking, Song Xuechun jumped up and interrogated her angrily!


    Rong Dai was exasperated. She should have met them separately.


    "Last semester, I asked you about it."


    Jiayi felt somewhat wronged. This opportunity didn''te easily, and she didn''t want to give it up.


    Although Rong Dai''s offer was tempting, it wasn''t enough to sway her.


    "You..."


    Song Xuechun sat down huffily, her face filled with anger and annoyance.


    Seeing her getting angry, Liang Jiayi became even more uneasy, her face turning red.


    Rong Dai inwardly sighed. She had brought trouble upon herself.


    "Xuechun, I feel like having coffee from the caf�� across the street. Could you please help me get a cup?"


    She could only divert Song Xuechun''s attention for now.


    Otherwise, the atmosphere would only be more awkward.


    Song Xuechun was not ignorant; she knew that Rong Dai was trying to ease the atmosphere. She grabbed her bag and turned to leave.


    Once the others were far away, Liang Jiayi let out a heavy sigh, filled with helplessness and emotions that Rong Dai couldn''t discern.


    "Xuechun has always been like this. If you give her some time, she will easily ept it," Rong Dai consoled her.


    Liang Jiayi rubbed her hands together, raised her eyes with a timid and apologetic look, and asked, "Dai''er, you... you won''t me me, will you?"


    "Why would I? In terms of my selfishness, I did hope that you woulde and help me."


    "But you have your own thoughts, and I can''t force you to stay here. It wouldn''t make you happy, and the oue of your work might not be what I want to see either."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, shaking her head as she exined.

 Chapter 401: Girls Who Dream

    <h4>Chapter 401</h4>


    When she heard her say this, Liang Jiayi finally breathed a slight sigh of relief.


    She took a look at the door and said to Rong Dai, "The conditions you offered are very good, but I want to further my studies. My situation is not as good as Song Xuechun''s."


    "To make it in our industry, you either need toe from a wealthy enough family to open your own studio,"


    "Or you need to be talented enough to realize your ideals and ambitions."


    "I became a designer for one reason only - I want my works to be at the forefront of the fashion world. This shouldn''t just be my dream."


    "It''s the dream of the vast majority of designers. I also know where my weaknesses lie, so I want to study abroad."


    "The exchange student quota this time is limited. I really want to go."


    When she said this to Rong Dai, Rong Dai clearly saw the sparkle in her eyes.


    This was a girl chasing her dream.


    Of course Rong Dai understood.


    Liang Jiayi''s current persistence was just like her former self, stubborn enough to not listen to anyone, wholeheartedly wanting to start her studio in one go.


    But after going through so much, she finally calmed herself down.


    She didn''t think this way to curse Liang Jiayi. She knew the path Liang Jiayi was taking to chase her dream was full of thorns.


    "I understand, Jiayi. What I mean is... if one day you still want toe back, I''ll still wee you here."


    As she spoke to Liang Jiayi, she added with a faint smile, "But I hope that day will nevere. I hope that one day we can meet on the international fashion stage."


    Liang Jiayi nodded gratefully: "I will!"


    Although Rong Dai felt a little regret for not keeping Liang Jiayi, she was not too disappointed.


    "Dai''er, for Xuechun... please put in a good word for me. She''s willing to listen to you."


    After hesitating for a few seconds, Liang Jiayi looked at her pleadingly.


    Rong Dai nodded.


    Song Xuechun bought coffee and came back, still looking very unhappy.


    "Dai''er, I''lle back to see you another day. Right now I have something to talk to her about!"


    After putting down the coffee, seeing Liang Jiayi''s uneasy appearance, she became more and more angry. She simply pulled Liang Jiayi up and said to Rong Dai.


    Knowing her personality, Rong Dai didn''t mind.


    Song Xuechun pulled Liang Jiayi and hurriedly left Magnolia Fragrance.


    Today''s sunshine felt warm. Rong Dai tidied up the cups and went back to the office to continue looking at the information in her email.


    Lu Nianzhi had arranged everything well, so there wasn''t much for her to do.


    She came today to take a look, and contact Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi in passing to understand their thoughts.


    Now Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi still had their own things to deal with. Thepany also had no urgent matters for now. She turned off herputer, preparing to go back.


    Just as she left Magnolia Fragrance, she bumped right into Shi Ning.


    Shi Ning looked unhappy, clearly affected by yesterday''s TK incident.


    Seeing Rong Daie out from here, her eyes turned ominous.


    Of course Rong Dai saw her too, but she didn''t intend to greet her.


    She knew very clearly what Shi Ning meant by those words yesterday.


    Especially with the things that had happened to her recently, it was possible Shi Ning was involved.


    Otherwise, she really couldn''t think of anyone else she had offended in Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    Usually Shi Ning wouldn''t take the initiative to talk to others either.


    But today was different. She was in a bad mood, an extremely bad mood!


    And the reason for her bad mood was caused by the woman in front of her.


    "Ms. Rong!"


    Seeing that Rong Dai also showed no intention of acknowledging her, the fire in her heart grew even bigger.


    Suppressing her anger, she called out to her in a slightly shrill voice. Then she walked quickly toward Rong Dai.

 Chapter 402: Do You Think I Look okay

    <h4>Chapter 402</h4>


    Rong Dai frowned slightly, stopping by the car and turning to look at Shi Ning walking towards her.


    "Miss Shi, is there something I can help you with?"


    Her voice was indifferent, and her gaze towards Shi Ning was also very cold.


    Shi Ning walked up to her. Although she still looked as calm and well-behaved as always, Rong Dai could clearly see the fury in her eyes.


    TK had gotten into trouble, and the Jin Xiu Studio was implicated.


    And Shi Ning was the leader of the Jin Xiu Studio''s participation this time, so she was redirecting her anger towards Rong Dai, which was within Rong Dai''s expectations.


    However, seeing Shi Ning''s urge to hit her, she increasingly understood why Master Shi Yue had tried so hard to bring her into Jin Xiu Studio.


    She didn''t dare boast about her own excellence, but Master Shi Yue had been in the industry for many years and could discern the quality of embroidered works with one nce.


    There were currently severe internal conflicts within Jin Xiu Studio. Even if Master Shi Yue wished to groom Shi Ning to take over her position, if Shi Ning could not convince the masses, then no matter how Master Shi Yue protected her, Shi Ning would not be able to firmly take the first seat of Jin Xiu Studio.


    The greater the responsibility, the stronger one''s abilities had to be.


    But Shi Ning clearly did not meet this criteria. Master Shi Yue was very aware that Shi Ning desperately needed people by her side, which was why she had noticed Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai had understood all of this when she first met Master Shi Yue in Hua Fu Mountain City.


    But apparently Shi Ning had not grasped Master Shi Yue''s intentions, instead viewing Rong Dai as an enemy.


    "Miss Rong, do I look like I have nothing to do right now?"


    Shi Ning tried her best to restrain the rage in her heart. She really hated Rong Dai and wished she could p her across the face!


    She had been so close to sess!


    Why did this b*tch have toe and mess things up?


    Couldn''t she have leaked the news at any other time instead of yesterday?


    And in that kind of situation too!


    Wasn''t she deliberately trying to oppose Shi Ning?


    Rong Dai found Shi Ning amusing. Had Shi Ninge to take out her anger on Rong Dai?


    "Miss Shi, I''m afraid I don''t understand what you mean."


    "Have I offended you in some way unknowingly?"


    She asked Shi Ning with a smile instead of anger.


    "Boss Shi, don''t..."


    Shi Ning''s assistant turned pale with fright. Clutching a folder, she tugged lightly on Shi Ning''s sleeve next to her, reminding her.


    Shi Ning''s expression was gloomy as she stared fixedly at Rong Dai. After silently taking two deep breaths, she noticed the cafe across from them.


    "Miss Rong, this is not the ce to talk. Why don''t we go to the cafe over there instead?"


    She suggested.


    Rong Dai did not look at the cafe, but nced at her watch to check the time before shaking her head. "Miss Shi, I''m afraid I''ll have to decline. I have an appointment to have lunch with Shaoling."


    "I apologize for not being able to apany you. If there''s anything you need to say, you can just tell me here."


    Rong Dai had nothing much to discuss with Shi Ning. And judging by Shi Ning''s manner, it seemed like she wanted to devour Rong Dai instead of having a conversation.


    Shi Ning involuntarily clenched her fists tightly when she saw Rong Dai''s calm expression as she rejected Shi Ning''s request.


    It felt as if she had been punched in the chest, and was extremely stifled.


    But her assistant was very conscientious, continuously reminding her.


    The look in Shi Ning''s eyes fluctuated unpredictably. Although it was just a few seconds, Rong Dai could clearly see that Shi Ning was trying hard to restrain her anger.


    "Well, it''s nothing important anyway. I was interested in purchasing this courtyard to use as a studio in the past."


    "I happened to see youing out from inside just now. I didn''t expect that you were the one who rented this courtyard."


    "I wonder if Miss Rong would be amenable to letting me have this courtyard. If so, I''m willing topensate you for all the rental fees, as well as an additionalpensation fee."

 Chapter 403: Unintelligible Question

    <h4>Chapter 403</h4>


    Rong Dai nced at the studio a few meters away and brought her eyes back to Shi Ning, "Sorry, I have already purchased this courtyard."


    Seeing her words had just fallen, Shi Ning''s face turned ugly.


    "What a pity for such a nice yard..."


    Shi Ning revealed a stiff and regretful smile on her face, sighing lightly as she spoke.


    Rong Dai knitted her brows.


    Did Shi Ninge over just to say all this nonsense to her?


    Or did she want toe mock her for wasting this yard?


    "Miss Shi, if you really don''t have anything important, then I will leave first since I''m in a hurry!"


    Although the other party was rude, she could not lose her own manners and continued to give Shi Ning face as she spoke.


    Shi Ning''s breathing stalled for a moment, her eyes stared at Rong Dai somewhat sinisterly, "Ms. Rong, have you never heard the saying ''extreme actions beget extreme reactions''?"


    She suddenly moved closer to Rong Dai and lowered her voice to ask.


    Rong Dai looked at her in feigned puzzlement and softly shook her head, "I don''t understand, please enlighten me Miss Shi."


    Shi Ning''s face was icy cold, her stare at Rong Dai was annoyed, unable to restrain the anger in her belly anymore as she directly questioned her, "I already exined clearly about the incident at the Qiao familyst time."


    "In that kind of asion yesterday, why did you still do that?"


    "The internal staff of TK made a mistake, what does that have to do with the Brocade Embroidery Workshop? If you didn''t incite Chairman Huo, he would have never been so ruthless."


    "And to think my grandmother wanted to invite you to work together at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop. Why did you have to do this?"


    Her questioning contained anger. Recalling what had happened at thepany yesterday, she was truly infuriated!


    Whether she could still stay at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop was now uncertain.


    All of this was caused by Rong Dai. Couldn''t she have exposed TK after the celebration banquet had passed?


    Although it was true that if TK''s scandals were exposed, it would still bring disaster to the Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    But it definitely wouldn''t have implicated her like right now. This gave those old folks a chance to make trouble!


    Now even her grandmother couldn''t protect her. If she lost the qualification to inherit the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, she would definitely not let Rong Dai off!


    Rong Dai looked at Shi Ning and felt that she was venting her anger somewhat inexplicably.


    "Miss Shi, may I ask what does this have to do with the Brocade Embroidery Workshop?"


    "I was merely protecting my own rights and interests, and don''t need to exin anything to Miss Shi, right?"


    "Besides, Miss Shi and I aren''t familiar with each other."


    "Don''t you think it''s very strange that you''re questioning me like this?"


    Had Shi Ning lost her mind from anger?


    What standing did she have to question her?


    After Rong Dai questioned Shi Ning in this way, Shi Ning then realized in hindsight that she had indeed lost her cool!


    But words already spoken couldn''t be taken back, and water already spilled couldn''t be retrieved. Although there were no paparazzi stalking in this area, no one didn''t recognize both her and Rong Dai''s faces.


    She took a deep breath and looked at Rong Dai''s frosty face. She had no choice but to grit her teeth and apologize, "I''m truly very sorry, Ms. Rong."


    As she looked at Rong Dai, her gaze suddenly became regretful and dejected.


    "I thought you were also someone in embroidery and would understand the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s intentions at the start."


    "When the Brocade Embroidery Workshop didn''t investigate the issue of cooperating with TK thoroughly, leading to today''s situation, it was also the workshop reaping what it sowed."


    "But I thought Ms. Rong was also someone who cherished embroidered items. After knowing about such an ugly scandal with TK, I thought you would remind me or my grandmother."


    "Although you didn''t have the obligation, my grandmother truly admired your talent and sincerely invited you to join the Brocade Embroidery Workshop before. So I thought you would have some special feelings towards the workshop..."


    Rong Dai watched as she chattered on, speaking aggrievedly and dejectedly. Rong Dai instantly knitted her brows, feeling somehow that something wasn''t right.


    "What are you doing?!"


    The bodyguard who had been following Rong Dai suddenly yelled at Shi Ning''s assistant!

 Chapter 404: I鈥檒l see you soon.

    <h4>Chapter 404</h4>


    Shi Ning''s assistant was scared out of her wits, her face ghastly pale: "I, I didn''t do anything!"


    But the bodyguard had alreadye over to snatch away her folder, and her phone in the assistant''s hand fell to the ground with a "p".


    The screen of the phone broke immediately on impact with the ground, looking especially harsh in the refracted sunlight.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly, looking at Shi Ning before her and her assistant, always feeling something was not right.


    "What were you just filming?"


    The bodyguard had arge build, his face stoic and rather intimidating as he asked Shi Ning''s assistant in a hoarse voice.


    "I, I wasn''t filming anything."


    The assistant was frightened and flustered as she exined in a pale face.


    "Ms Rong, what does your bodyguard mean by this?"


    Shi Ning blocked the assistant behind her in one move, her face furious as she questioned Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai looked at the bodyguard, knowing he was professionally trained and would not make trouble out of nothing.


    "I guess because I get kidnapped so often, my bodyguard tends to be a bit paranoid."


    "I apologize on his behalf. Since the phone is broken, I will rece it with a new one for this youngdy."


    Her voice was calm, not panicked.


    The bodyguard also knew how to read the situation and immediately picked up the broken phone.


    "No, no need, my phone had a lot of work documents..."


    "It''s fine, I''ll have someone go buy an identical one from the phone shop nearby right away, it won''t take long."


    Rong Dai cut her off and ordered the bodyguard to a nearby phone shop.


    The bodyguard only took orders from Rong Dai, not bothering with whether Shi Ning and her assistant consented.


    He also understood Rong Dai''s intent and hurried off to the phone shop.


    "Do the two of you mind waiting here a bit longer?"


    After the bodyguard left, Rong Dai asked them.


    Although Shi Ning still looked unhappy, she was not as impulsive in her wordspared to when she first ran into Rong Dai.


    "Fine."


    She gave a light acknowledgment and stood in ce with her assistant, waiting fifteen minutes until the bodyguard came back with a newly purchased phone.


    Rong Dai looked questioningly at the bodyguard while he had an impassive face, handing both the new phone and broken phone to the assistant.


    "Th, Thank you."


    The assistant stammered nervously as she carefully took the phones and shrank back behind Shi Ning.


    "Ms Rong, I advise you to leave some leeway in how you conduct yourself to facilitate future interactions."


    As they left, Shi Ning gave Rong Dai an icy cold nce and left coldly with those parting words.


    Watching them leave, Rong Dai frowned.


    Shi Ning''s timely appearance and sudden anger, along with her calm departure, were all rather unusual.


    Although she and Shi Ning did not interact much, Shi Ning did not seem like someone prone to anger.


    In other words, even if she was dissatisfied with Rong Dai herself, she would not have shown it so clearly.


    Otherwise, back at the He family wine cottage when she saw Rong Dai talking with Ha Wei, Shi Ning would have reacted then.


    Shi Ning''s behavior today was a bit abnormal, not her usual style.


    After the two left, she looked around, it was noon closing time so more and more people were out.


    "Let''s go."


    She looked at her watch for the time and got in the car with her bodyguard.


    "Madam, I was rash."


    Once in the car, the bodyguard immediately apologized.


    Rong Dai shook her head: "I believe in your professional capabilities, what did you discover earlier?"


    She trusted the people Huo Shao Ting ced by her side.


    The bodyguard''s brows furrowed deeply: "She was probably filming earlier. The president instructed me on some matters, so I was extra vignt of Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s people."


    "But when I had a professional unlock and check her phone just now, there were no recorded videos."


    That''s why he apologized to Rong Dai.

 Chapter 405: Black to carbon Ash

    <h4>Chapter 405</h4>


    After listening to the bodyguard''s words, Rong Dai frowned as well.


    Shi Ning''s behavior and words today were too strange!


    She remembered Song Xuechun and the others saying that the courtyard where her Mn Fragrance Studio was located now was originally wanted by the Brocade Shop as well.


    It''s just that she got there first.


    Although she didn''t know too much about the situation back then, she also knew that it was arranged by Master Shi Yue to give Shi Ning an opportunity to demonstrate her own abilities.


    Since it was for Shi Ning to use as her own studio, how could Shi Ning not have found out that she and Xiao Ting had already bought the courtyard?


    That didn''t make sense.


    However, nothing was discovered on the other party''s assistant''s phone either, which was rather strange.


    With doubts in her mind, Rong Dai went to Huo''s Enterprise Building. At this time of day, it was just when the employees were getting off work, and thepany''s employees had all left the building to go eat at Huo''s Enterprise''s employee cafeteria.


    This wasn''t Rong Dai''s first timeing here, so she was quite familiar with where the president''s office was located.


    When she arrived at the president''s office, she happened to see Assistant Zhanging out.


    "Madam."


    Seeing Rong Dai appear here, Assistant Zhang was startled for a moment before immediately reacting.


    "Is Xiao Ting still busy?"


    Rong Dai nodded and asked him in a lowered voice.


    "He''s on an important conference call. Madam can wait here first."


    Assistant Zhang softly reported and then led her to the lounge next door.


    "You go take care of your matters. I don''t have anything urgent either, just wanted toe eat dinner with Xiao Ting."


    She nced at Assistant Zhang and instructed him.


    Assistant Zhang nodded and immediately left the lounge.


    Rong Dai sat on the sofa and waited for five or six minutes without hearing any movement. She simply took out her phone to browse the news.


    The news on Weibo these past two days had been very hot. After yesterday''s leak, all sorts of ck history rted to TK flooded the inte today.


    Each of these pieces of ck history, taken individually, was enough to chill TK.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but marvel to herself�Dthese entertainment journalists'' ability to dig up news really was unmatched!


    It had only been a few hours!


    TK''s reputation on the inte had already been dragged through the mud!


    Although TK had also promptly done public rtions damage control, it barely had any effect.


    If it was only reported by one media outlet,izens might not believe it too strongly, but this was reported by over a dozen media outlets simultaneously!


    And it was personally released by none other than Huo''s Enterprise''s president himself�Dhow could it possibly be fake?


    TK''s newly registered ount already had its follower count reset to zero due to the barrage ofizen cursing. By early this morning, they had no choice but to mute it.


    And now there was new news that China''s official authorities had ordered TK''s newly registered ount on Weibo to be deleted.


    Additionally, all of TK''s personnel currently in China were being ordered to leave China today.


    Giving them the chance to leave was already very courteous.


    If they had been expelled instead, they really would have lost all face!


    Rong Dai also hadn''t expected the relevant authorities to take action so swiftly. TK''s this trip to China really was a hasty arrival and departure.


    She herself had actually quite admired such a brand before, with a hundred-year history and upying half of the fashion industry''s territory for over half a century.


    This was a magnificent achievement that many other top luxury brands were unable to match.


    What a pity for such an outstanding brand, Rong Dai thought to herself. The news of this blow to their debut fashion show in China would probably spread abroad very quickly as well.


    It would be difficult for TK to maintain its status as the king of the fashion world.


    As she was browsing Weibo, a new message notification suddenly popped up. She tapped it open and saw that it was a video.


    The video was a little shaky, but that didn''t prevent her from recognizing the face in it.


    Who else could it be but herself?

 Chapter 406: Trouble Again

    <h4>Chapter 406</h4>


    Recently, Zhang Assistant had added another task to his work - keeping an eye on Weibo.


    He was free at the moment and as soon as he opened Weibo, he saw this video.


    It was posted by aizen, who had tagged several big Vs, including Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    Although the video was a bit shaky, it did not affect the recognizability.


    Rong Dai''s face was filmed very clearly, and Shi Ning''s distinctive style of dress, as a creation of Brocade Embroidery Workshop, made her easily identifiable even though the video quality wasn''t great.


    Although Brocade Embroidery Workshop had gotten caught up in the scandal fromst night''s TK celebration banquet, that did not stopizens from recognizing Shi Ning.


    The video was filmed from a distance, you could only hear theizen talking to himself, along with some background noise.


    However, the part where the bodyguard snatched Shi Ning''s assistant''s folder, identally smashing the assistant''s phone, was filmed especially clearly.


    Yesterday, scandals about TK had emerged, rted to Rong Dai.


    Now her face had appeared in this video again, and the number of views andments was skyrocketing!


    At this rate, trending on hot search was guaranteed!


    Zhang Assistant''s face immediately darkened, he made some calls on his phone, instructing his subordinates to investigate, while he himself went to see Huo Shao Ting.


    "Boss."


    Zhang Assistant lowered his voice and showed Huo Shao Ting the video on his phone.


    Seeing this video, Huo Shao Ting''s sword-like eyebrows snapped together!


    He swiftly ended the conference call: "When was this?"


    "Just now, judging by the time it should have happened before Madam came over, Madam is in the next lounge."


    Zhang Assistant swiftly reported.


    "The information you previously investigated on Shi Ning, it can be released now."


    Huo Shao Ting said coldly, his eyes icy and sharp!


    Rong had been kidnapped and dumped in the mountains, her work had been entered into the Brocade Embroidery Workshop contest.


    Yang Yue hadn''t told him, but that didn''t mean he couldn''t find things out.


    Zhang Assistant asked further: "Is it appropriate to release it now? After all, the footage shows quite clearly someone was filming secretly, you can''t hear what Madam and Miss Shi said at all, you just see the bodyguard getting physical."


    "Although Brocade Embroidery Workshop got caught up this time, Shi Ning is still very popr."


    "If we do this, people will probably feel we are taking revenge, diverting attention, it might just make Madam''s position more awkward."


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyebrows twisted into a frown, and he pursed his thin lips, pondering silently for a few seconds before instructing: "Tonight."


    Then he got up to go see Rong Dai in the next lounge.


    Seeing hime in, Rong Dai showed a helpless, apologetic, somewhat wronged expression and said to him:


    "I''ve caused you trouble again..."


    She had felt it was strange all along, after all Shi Ning didn''t seem like such an impulsive person.


    Now seeing this video, she understood.


    Although TK was detestable, and Brocade Embroidery Workshop had sustained considerable damage, overall Brocade Embroidery Workshop still had influence.


    And not only was Shi Ning from a good family background and beautiful, she was also talented, her poprity was no less than any other popr starlet.


    She was different. Ever since the Zuo Ran incident, she frequently trended on hot search.


    And the Huo family was a prominent one,izens didn''t feel she deserved to be matched with the Huo family.


    Inizens'' cognition, her only outstanding trait was her looks, any talents she may or may not have could be ignored.


    Frequently seeing her trending also caused aesthetic fatigue.


    Even though Huo Shao Ting repeatedlyshed out againstizens, sendingwyer letters to all sorts of media outlets, there were still those who were unhappy.


    After all, no matter how powerful Huo Shao Ting was, he couldn''t cover the whole sky with one hand.


    So as soon as this video leaked, imaginativeizens spected wildly, and naturally Shi Ning, who was still quite popr, became the scapegoat.

 Chapter 407: I Want to Fix It Myself

    <h4>Chapter 407</h4>


    "I''ve always said that I''ll be by your side no matter what."


    Huo Shao Ting sat down and embraced her, his voice gentle.


    Rong Dai leaned against his chest while the news on her phone continued to scroll.


    After giving it some thought, she turned her head slightly and looked at him, her gaze deepening. "Shao Ting, I want to handle this matter on my own."


    She had mentioned wanting space for her own growth.


    During this time, she had relied on him to handle everything because she knew he was there by her side, and she felt secure.


    She knew Huo Shao Ting wouldn''tin.


    Although she could sit securely on the chair of Mrs. Huo, there would always be voices of doubt.


    Such voices existed now, and if she didn''t be stronger, they would continue to exist in the future.


    It was precisely because Huo Shao Ting had intervened in her affairs several times that people questioned her even more.


    Only when she demonstrated her true abilities would those people shut their mouths.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze as he held her showed a hint of disappointment, but he had promised her.


    "Alright."


    He responded lightly. How he wished he could remove all obstacles for her and make her path smooth.


    But if that happened, she would be a caged canary, and that wasn''t what they wanted.


    "Shao Ting, I remember you''ve always been by my side."


    She smiled lightly as she looked at him.


    Since he was by her side, what did she have to fear?


    She had been here for more than just a day or two. If she continued to let others manipte her, then her previous life as a queen would have been in vain.


    All the losses and lessons from her past life would have been for nothing.


    "As long as you understand."


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead, but he still worriedly asked her, "Have you figured out how you want to handle it?"


    Rong Dai couldn''t help but smile wryly. "Didn''t we agree not to interfere?"


    However, she also knew that he was just concerned because he knew about her background.


    What she had experienced in her previous life was different from everything here, so it was normal for him to worry.


    Then she nced at the video on her phone, her delicate face calm. "But it''s just a video. Besides relying on their imagination, what else canizens do?"


    Although Shi Ning''s move could bring her criticism, this matter couldn''t withstand deeper scrutiny.


    And she believed Shi Ning wasn''t foolish. She must also understand that this video couldn''t prove anything.


    So Shi Ning would definitely take further actions.


    "If Shi Ning doesn''t present concrete evidence, then how can they prove that I bullied her?"


    She yfully retorted, her smile carrying a hint of cunning.


    "Let them trend for a couple of days. I have other work to attend to during this time. This little trick doesn''t have much use for me."


    After all, there were already plenty of people criticizing her. It would only mean adding a few more.


    Seeing that she remained calm, Huo Shao Ting knew she wasn''t affected, and he finally felt relieved.


    "What do you want to eat for lunch?" he asked.


    Rong Dai nced at the window and thought about the cafeteria in Huo''s Skyscraper.


    "I think thepany''s cafeteria is quite good."


    He had been busy with thepany and taking care of her during this period. He was already tired, and she didn''t want to bother him with back-and-forth trips.


    The couple then left the lounge, and Zhang Assistant came over with a copied USB drive. Seeing that the couple was in good spirits, he hesitated and asked Huo Shao Ting, "Sir, do we still need to keep the information for tonight?"


    Huo Shao Ting nced at his wife beside him and instructed him, "Follow Madam''s arrangement."


    Rong Dai raised an eyebrow slightly and asked, "What information?"


    Zhang Assistant hurriedly caught up with them and exined, "It''s Shi Ning''s information. It took a lot of effort to dig it up."


    It had taken him quite a lot of effort to investigate Shi Ning.


    Who could have imagined that such a young girl could hide so deeply?

 Chapter 408: Wait Two Days and see

    <h4>Chapter 408</h4>


    "Let''s put it aside for now and see what happens in a couple of days," she said.


    She wanted to see what Shi Ning was interested in ying with.


    Zhang Assistant nodded and put the copied materials back into his pocket.


    The married couple appeared in Huo''s Enterprise''s cafeteria, attracting quite a bit of attention from the employees.


    However, Huo Shao Ting''s re kept them all in check as they quietly ate their meals.


    Huo''s Enterprise offered very generous benefits to its employees, so the meals were certainly notcking.


    Rong Dai did not dare to be greedy. She only ate a te of vegetables and two slices of boiled meat before stopping.


    She was still mindful of the career n Lu Nianzhi had made for her.


    Most importantly, she also wanted to walk the international stage wearing clothes designed by her own brand.


    So she had to maintain her figure.


    The postpartum meals she ate at the hospital over the past few days were already abundant enough.


    Plus, during the New Year period, she did not hold back and did not restrain her appetite. She could now feel a little extra weight on her waist.


    "Eat some more," Huo Shao Ting said unhappily as he put some dishes into her bowl.


    Rong Dai quickly blocked his temptation: "I can''t. I need to control my diet now."


    "While ensuring adequate nutrition, I can''t eat too much anymore, otherwise my figure will be out of shape and I won''t be able to fit into my clothes," she exined.


    The poor state of her health was due to ack of exercise and not strictly regting her diet.


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting with a very serious expression in her eyes.


    Although Huo Shao Ting felt helpless, he had seen the career n Lu Nianzhi made for her.


    Maintaining her figure was a basic requirement.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll take good care of my body," Rong Dai quickly appeased him.


    What else could Huo Shao Ting do besides go along with her?


    After the married couple finished their lunch, Huo Shao Ting still had meetings to attend to. Rong Dai also wanted to go back home to do some things, so Zhang Assistant drove her back to Huafu Hill City.


    Back at home, Rong Dai made some flower tea while turning on herputer to attend ss with her teacher online.


    She didn''t turn off herputer until 4pm when the lesson ended. She then picked up her phone to browse the trending topics.


    Good, she was still trending.


    She turned off the screen and temporarily put this matter aside while opening up a document to start drafting ns for thepany.


    She was busy until 6pm when she finally finished writing. She printed it out and circled things here and there with a pen, unconsciously working until the evening.


    Rong Dai had originally wanted to print out the revised version, but when she saw the time, she had to go make dinner.


    Less than half an hour after entering the kitchen, Huo Shao Ting came back from work.


    The married couple made dinner together. After eating, Rong Dai brewed some medicine tea to ward off greasiness. The couple then sat in the courtyard to enjoy the tranquility after a busy day.


    Just as the couple was enjoying this rare peace and quiet, Rong Dai��s phone unfortunately rang.


    She looked apologetically at Huo Shao Ting before picking up the phone. It was Huo Mei Shu calling.


    She answered the call, "Mei Shu, you haven''t rested yet?"


    Thest time she spoke with her sister-inw, the call was interrupted by her mother-inw''s yelling. Over the past two days, she was also busy with her own things and did not know what was going on in Hainan.


    Huo Mei Shu''s voice was filled with fatigue, "Sister-inw, is there anything to eat at your house? Can I stay over at your ce tonight?"


    Rong Dai looked at Huo Shao Ting and asked her, "You''re back?"


    "Yes, I just got off the ne. My second brother is busy with drama crew matters so he hasn''t gone home yet," Huo Mei Shu wearily responded.


    Even speaking seemed to tire her out.


    "Thene over first. Your eldest brother is here too," Rong Dai said upon hearing her exhausted voice. Although she did not know what had happened in Hainan, the Lu family did not have it easy these past few days.


    Both aunts were annoyed and the two uncles must have felt terrible too.

 Chapter 409: That was a very clever recording.

    <h4>Chapter 409</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu was silent on the phone for a few seconds: ��Then...please help me cook some noodles, elder sister-inw. It''s toote to go back now. I''m afraid I''ll wake grandma up. I''ll eat then go stay at a hotel.��


    ��It''s no problem, we have a spare room at home.��


    Rong Dai replied to her, then urged her to be safe on her way back before hanging up. She then turned to look at Huo Shao Ting.


    ��Mei Shu ising back. Shao Jie still has things to deal with on set so he hasn''t returned home.��


    ��From the sound of Mei Shu''s voice, she is very tired. Grandma probably just got to Hainan so they are not used to things yet and it must be chaotic for them.��


    ��I''ll go cook noodles for her. Mei Shu will feel awkward seeing you too so do you want to go upstairs first?��


    She was subtly reminding the little sister-inw. After all, the little sister-inw was still a bit fearful of Huo Shao Ting.


    Although the little sister-inw''s silence was brief, she knew that she was hesitating.


    On the surface, the issue with the mother-inw seemed to be resolved between the Huo and Lu families but some problems had been nted.


    These were issues that could not be resolved in a day or two.


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her and kissed her cheek. ��I''ll go cook the noodles. You rest.��


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment before smiling and nodding.


    As she watched Huo Shao Ting''s retreating figure heading to the kitchen, she contemted thoughtfully. But there was no rush with this matter.


    After Huo Shao Ting went to cook noodles, she did not rest in the courtyard. She tidied up the teapot and teacups then went upstairs to get a new set of house clothes and toiletries for Huo Mei Shu to put in the guest room.


    After the married couple were busy for half an hour, the doorbell at the gate rang.


    When she opened the door, she saw Huo Mei Shu had clearly lost a lot of weight and herplexion was haggard like a scarecrow.


    Recalling the little sister-inw��s fair and tender face, Rong Dai''s eyebrows knitted together slightly. She let her in first.


    ��Thank you, elder sister-inw.��


    Huo Mei Shu��s voice was muffled, filled with exhaustion.


    ��Go wash your hands. Go eat the noodles.��


    Rong Dai took her luggage and put it aside while softly urging her.


    This was not Huo Mei Shu''s first time at their house. After washing her hands anding out of the bathroom, she happened to see Huo Shao Ting with an apron around his waist bringing out the noodles.


    Her eyes instantly turned red. She stood frozen for a few seconds, hastily rubbing her eyes to stop the tears from falling.


    Seeing this, Rong Dai found an excuse to go upstairs first.


    ��Have a seat.��


    Huo Shao Ting looked at Huo Mei Shu with an impassive face but his tone was not as icy cold as usual.


    Huo Mei Shu obediently sat down. Looking at the piping hot noodles and the stir-fried shrimp and vegetables, she lowered her head to eat silently.


    Rong Dai did not go to eavesdrop on the siblings'' conversation. In the study, she supplemented and revised the documents she had edited then sent them to Lu Nianzhi��s email.


    She then took out her phone to check updates on Weibo.


    Three minutes ago, the video trending earlier was no longer trending. Now there was an audio recording.


    This recording was preemptively released by Ning��s assistant. She imed that just to be safe, she had recorded this audio.


    Rong Dai frowned. She believed in the professional capabilities of the bodyguard. Since he had checked the phone earlier and found nothing wrong, it meant Ning andpany had prepared other recording devices.


    She clicked to y the recording. The audio had been edited. Of course she would not forget what she had said.


    The recording very clearly captured Ning''s aggrieved and regretful lines. Then there was the assistant''s stuttering and panic before turning into static noise.


    This was a clever edit.


    A cold smile appeared on Rong Dai''s face as she looked at Lu Nianzhi''s number in her contacts. She hesitated a few seconds before calling.

 Chapter 410: Another Side of Shi Ning

    <h4>Chapter 410</h4>


    The phone was picked up quickly, but it was very noisy.


    "Sister Nianzhi Lu, you''re still outside?"


    When Rong Dai heard the phone was picked up, she could hear the noise on the other end, so she asked.


    "I''m out, what''s going on?"


    Lu Nianzhi on the phone seemed to have returned to the state of a capable career woman.


    Rong Dai brewed for a few seconds and was about to speak.


    "I won''t talk to you first, I''ll board the ne first. If there''s anything, I''ll talk about it when I get back."


    "I already know what''s going on online. I knew Jinxiu Lane would make trouble!"


    On Lu Nianzhi''s side, there was a boarding announcement. As she spoke, she dragged her suitcase to board the ne.


    Rong Dai was about to ask how she came back so quickly, but she thought that she was calling Lu Nianzhi toe back anyway.


    She really couldn''t do without someone by her side.


    Just a few days ago, she told Lu Nianzhi to take time off and go rx. As a result, this person had just left for less than two days before Rong Dai called her back.


    As a boss...she was a bit ipetent.


    "Okay, I''ll wait for you toe back."


    After answering, Lu Nianzhi agreed and hung up the phone.


    Huo Shao Ting had not yete up, probably still downstairs talking to Huo Mei Shu. Rong Dai did not continue to investigate the recording, but called Zhang Assistant instead.


    "Assistant Zhang, can you send me a copy of the information about Shi Ning you talked about today?"


    Rong Dai asked him.


    Zhang Assistant: "It has already been sent to your email, Madam."


    "Okay, sorry to disturb your rest."


    Rong Dai said while looking at theputer to open her email and see the received information before hanging up with Zhang Assistant.


    The content of this information was explosive!


    There were pictures and videos.


    Shi Ning''s face was as clear as it could be.


    Rong Dai did not expect that Shi Ning would have this side as well. She looked pure and harmless, but privately she was actually like this.


    Although this information could not prove anything, it was enough to ruin the image that Shi Ning had built up over so many years.


    After Rong Dai finished reading the information, Huo Shao Ting came up.


    "Is Mei Shu okay?"


    Rong Dai closed theputer and looked up at him to ask.


    "Nothing happened, she''s been like this since she was little, a little setback can make her feel discouraged for a long time."


    "Let her sleep one night and go back tomorrow." Huo Shao Ting replied.


    Hearing him say that, Rong Dai did not intend to ask more.


    "You go take a bath first, I''ll go see if Mei Shu needs anything."


    She stood up and urged him while walking out.


    "She doesn''tck anything, she''s not a child and will find it herself."


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her and kissed her forehead with a smile in his eyes, pulling her back to the bedroom.


    "Shao Ting, I thought about it, I still need someone by my side."


    Back in the bedroom, Rong Dai thought for a moment and looked at him saying.


    Lu Nianzhi was very capable, but she also had her own personal life. Although she was an assistant, Rong Dai couldn��t require Lu Nianzhi to be at her beck and call 24 hours a day.


    But once the studio was up and running, it couldn��t be paused.


    She needed someone by her side for many things and decisions when the studio starts operating. Lu Nianzhi alone by her side was not enough.


    Huo Shao Ting had brought this up before, and she had refused.


    Now it seemed that he had the foresight and she kept getting proven wrong.


    "What kind of person do you want?"


    Huo Shao Ting was not surprised that she would bring this up. As the CEO of thepany, he certainly knew that one assistant was not enough.


    Zhang Assistant by his side was at the steward level, with more than a dozen assistants underneath to assist his work.


    Otherwise, just Zhang Changdong alone, even 48 hours a day would not be enough for him.

 Chapter 411: Please Apologize to Mom.

    <h4>Chapter 411</h4>


    Rong Dai thought for a while before replying to him: "It would be best if they understand this industry."


    "There is no doubt about Nian Zhi sister''s capabilities, but she mostly deals with finance and does not know much about design."


    She continued to supplement her answer, trying to give Huo Shao Ting a clear reply.


    "I''ll take care of this. For now, I''m going to take a shower and sleep."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded and carried her into the bathroom.


    Rong Dai''s ears immediately turned red: "Shao Ting, I haven''t recovered yet..."


    "I know, I just want to take a shower with you, nothing else."


    He said with a shallow smile, already taking off her clothes.


    Early the next morning, Rong Dai got up very early and made breakfast for three people.


    Because Huo Shao Ting was at home, Huo Mei Shu seemed very restrained and ate breakfast quietly.


    After breakfast, when Huo Shao Ting went out to work, Huo Mei Shu finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Rong Dai brought her a cup of flower tea. The sunshine in the courtyard was bright and warm. Basking in the sun at this time was the mostfortable.


    "Come sit in the yard and bask in the sun, it will improve your mood."


    Huo Mei Shu held her teacup and nodded, following behind her unsteadily into the courtyard and sitting down.


    "Sister-inw, how are you feeling?"


    After sitting down, Huo Mei Shu looked at her apprehensively and asked.


    "I��m recovering very well, don''t worry."


    Rong Dai''s face showed a faint smile as she answered, her eyes fixed on her the whole time.


    "Sister-inw, I want to apologize on my mother''s behalf. That day...she shouldn''t have hit you. This matter was a huge blow to her."


    Huo Mei Shu held her teacup without letting go, looking at her withplicated emotions.


    "I understand."


    Rong Dai waited for her to speak.


    Last night when Huo Mei Shu came over, she knew this little sister-inw had something she wanted to tell her, it was just that Shao Ting was there so she didn''t speak up.


    Huo Mei Shu was silent for a while again until her flower tea was finished. Only then did she cautiously lift her eyes to look at Rong Dai.


    "Sis...Sister-inw, can I ask you for a favor?"


    She stuttered a little and didn''t even dare to look Rong Dai in the eye.


    Rong Dai looked at her, her expression very calm: "Tell me."


    "That is...could you please call my mother? I know she was being unreasonable and that was wrong of her."


    "But now she''s all alone and deste in Hainan. I...nevermind, forget I asked."


    Huo Mei Shu''s face flushed red as she stuttered out her request before giving up halfway.


    "Why do you want me to call your mother? Is it so I apologize to her?"


    Although Rong Dai looked indifferent, her eyes were very sharp.


    She could clearly see what the little sister-inw was thinking.


    This little sister-inw just had that kind of personality. She couldn''t hide anything in her heart and all her thoughts were written on her face.


    Of course, Mr. Gu was an exception.


    When Huo Mei Shu heard her ask this, she became very uneasy, and her breathing quickened: "Sister-inw, that''s not what I meant. I just...just hoped you could reconcile with my mother."


    Thinking of how her own mother had be a different person after going to Hainan, Huo Mei Shu felt both heartbroken and helpless.


    Especially when she remembered Lu Zheng angrily scolding Rong Dai, even now it made her heart race!


    She had never seen Lu Zheng look so hideous before. This trip to Hainan was really unforgettable for her.


    "After she calms down, I''ll talk to her again and get my mother to apologize to you, okay?"


    "Being this angry will make her sick..."


    As Huo Mei Shu spoke, her eyes turned red.


    Rong Dai understood.


    The little sister-inw wanted her to apologize to mother-inw Lu Zheng to ease Lu Zheng''s emotions. After all, in her mother-inw''s subjective consciousness, it was because of her that her mother-inw had encountered this misfortune.

 Chapter 412: It鈥檚 Impossible.

    <h4>Chapter 412</h4>


    "Sister-inw, I don''t mean anything else, I know about this matter..."


    "Mei Shu, I can consider agreeing to other things you ask, but this matter is impossible."


    When Huo Mei Shu saw her unhappy expression, she was anxious to exin, but was interrupted by Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were a bit cold: "Since you know this matter is not my fault, why should I apologize to her?"


    "There is no room for negotiation on this, if my mother-inw wants to hate me, if this can make her feel a little better, I won''t care."


    When Huo Mei Shu heard her say this, her face turned slightly pale: "Then what about my brother? Sister-inw, don''t you care about him either?"


    "Sister-inw, don''t get me wrong, I didn''t mean it that way!"


    "I...I just want the rtionship between you and my mother to ease up, maybe the rtionship between my big brother and my mother will get better too."


    She was afraid that Rong Dai would misunderstand, and exined in a panic, so anxious that tears were about to fall!


    Rong Dai looked at her and brewed for a few seconds before saying: "Mei Shu, I can''t help you with this."


    "Do you think that if I apologize, your mother will realize her own mistakes?"


    "In fact, she didn''t really make any mistakes in these things, but she can''t ept it herself, it''s not a problem of whether I apologize to her or not."


    "My apology will only make her more convinced that things happened because of me, and will only make her sink deeper into it."


    "Your big brother knows his limits, you don''t need to worry about this."


    To make her apologize to Lu Zheng, that was impossible.


    She did nothing wrong in this matter, so why should she apologize? Just to make her mother-inw feel better?


    Besides, the problem between Little Teng and his mother was not something anyone could solve, including her, because Grandpa was very important to Little Teng.


    This kind of feeling was not something anyone could understand. She didn''t know how Huo Shaoting had kept this secret in his heart for more than 20 years.


    Every time he saw his mother-inw Lu Zheng, he would be reminded of his grandfather''s words, which was a blow and torture to him time and time again.


    She was in no position, nor had any right to ask him to forgive his mother.


    Just like now the little aunt also had no position to ask her to do this, even if the little aunt thought this was the best solution for everyone, it still wouldn''t work.


    Huo Mei Shu''s mouth opened and closed a few times, then she lowered her head, put the teacup on the table, and wrung her hands together.


    "My mother is in Hainan...she''s really suffering."


    Rong Dai knew that the little aunt''s feelings for her mother were deep, and she understood what she meant.


    But she couldn''t do this, and she wouldn''t do it.


    "I still have to go to thepany. You just got back and haven''t had a good rest. I won''t keep you here. Do you need me to call Uncle Li to pick you up?"


    She stood up and decisively ended the unpleasant conversation.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her with red eyes, saw her cold expression, and knew there would be no result if she kept talking.


    "No need, I can just take a taxi back."


    She stood up and shook her head. Her whole person was very haggard, lifeless, and did not have the lively appearance she had before.


    "Then be careful."


    Rong Dai told her and saw her off until she got into the car before going back inside.


    She went back home, tidied up briefly, then went to Mn Incense.


    But as soon as she arrived at thepany entrance, countless entertainment reporters rushed to her with cameras and equipment!


    If it wasn''t for the bodyguards blocking them quickly, the equipment would have poked her in the face!


    She frowned slightly. The incident that happened yesterday had spread rapidly, plus those argumentative troublemakers online who liked to argue about everything, Shi Ning had be the victim.


    While she, Rong Dai, was the vicious abuser!


    "Mrs. Huo, do you have anything to say about the incident exposed online yesterday?"


    "Mrs. Huo, in the video, Master Shi Yue thought highly of you, why didn''t you notify Jin Xiu Fang as soon as you learned about TK''s deeds?"


    "Mrs. Huo, can you tell us why your bodyguard beat up Miss Shi''s assistant yesterday?"


    "Mrs. Huo, please answer...."

 Chapter 413: What鈥檚 the Intention

    <h4>Chapter 413</h4>


    Looking at these aggressive entertainment reporters, it was obvious that they had been waiting here for her to appear for quite some time.


    Rong Dai was not flustered. Standing behind her bodyguards, her gaze was cold as she looked at these entertainment reporters.


    Because themotion caused by the entertainment reporters was too loud, the patrolling police in this area had hurried over to maintain order, thus avoiding chaos.


    "Which one of you is doing a live broadcast?"


    Seeing that order was maintained, Rong Dai finally spoke.


    Her voice was cold and full of authority. The noisy crowd miraculously quieted down. A few entertainment reporters raised their hands.


    Rong Dai signaled her bodyguards to stand by her side. She took two steps forward, her gaze fixed on one of the devices that was broadcasting live.


    "I will not answer any of your questions."


    "Secondly, please wait for the official announcement from my official ount."


    "Now, please cooperate with the police and leave for the time being."


    She only said three sentences before turning around and entering Magnolia Fragrance.


    Therge group of entertainment reporters stood stunned outside the door, not expecting Rong Dai to only say these simple three sentences.


    "Damn! Who does she think she is! Speaking so arrogantly!"


    "No wonder Shi Ning was bullied yesterday. With this woman''s temper, even a man can''t beat her!"


    ......


    Because it was a live broadcast, Rong Dai''s words immediately angered the trolls and fans of Shi Ning!


    "Madam, do you need to inform the President?"


    Hearing the noisy sounds outside the door, the bodyguard asked worriedly.


    Rong Dai shook her head. "No need to worry about it. If they want to wait then let them wait."


    The bodyguard nodded and stood guard at the yard door.


    Rong Dai entered the office and opened Weibo.


    In just this short period of time, she had already been scolded byizens to death and back!


    She didn''t exin anything. After browsing for a while she exited the page.


    She really wanted to know why Shi Ning did this.


    Just to attract criticism and vent her anger?


    Isn''t this a bit too childish?


    Although Rong Dai did not answer the reporter��s questions directly, the entertainment reporters gathered outside thepany who intended to ambush were unwilling to leave just like that.


    Rong Dai was pondering over this matter when her phone rang.


    Seeing that it was a call from Lu Nianzhi, she immediately picked up.


    "I should call you Auntie. I''ve only been away for two days and you''ve caused such a big stir already."


    Lu Nianzhi sounded very helpless over the phone.


    "It wasn''t intentional. But there will always be people keeping an eye on me."


    Rong Dai was also helpless. At the same time, she still could not figure out why Shi Ning did this.


    If she wanted to smear her reputation there were countless ways.


    Using this method exposed herself as well. This was simply foolish!


    "Forget it, I''ll be at thepany soon. I''ll discuss it with you when I get there."


    Lu Nianzhi sighed. Dragging his suitcase he hurriedly got into the car and arrived at thepany in half an hour.


    Seeing Magnolia Fragrance��s door open, those entertainment reporters were like crazy, waving their cameras and mobile phones snapping pictures frantically!


    "Is there something wrong with this Shi Ning? What good does this do her?"


    As soon as he entered, Lu Nianzhi couldn''t help butin.


    Rong Dai smiled bitterly and shook her head. She also could not figure out this point, which was why she had not released the evidence in her hand.


    "So how do you n to deal with this? Or hand it over to Mr. Huo?"


    "Ifizens keep defaming you like this, I''m afraid thispany will go bankrupt even before it opens."


    Lu Nianzhi put down his suitcase and went to the water dispenser to pour water and drink, while asking her.


    "I want to wait and see first, figure out her intentions before deciding."


    Rong Dai said. At this moment, the phone in her hand vibrated.

 Chapter 414: The Purpose of Shi Ning

    <h4>Chapter 414</h4>


    Weibo pushed a news notification to her, and as she opened it, her eyebrows furrowed.


    Lu Nianzhi noticed her frown and quickly opened her phone.


    "Ningyue Fashion? Registered by... Shi Ning''spany?"


    "Isn''t she part of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop? The future sessor? Why did she register Ningyue Fashion?"


    Lu Nianzhi couldn''t understand Shi Ning''s intentions anymore.


    Rather than answering her, Rong Dai earnestly read the news.


    The promotion of Ningyue Fashion, along with the recent hot topics, brought Shi Ning''s newly registeredpany into the spotlight.


    Within minutes of this news breaking, Ningyue Fashion''s official ount posted a recruitment announcement and revealed news about preparing for a fashion show.


    Upon seeing this, Rong Dai began to understand why Shi Ning did this.


    By stepping on her head and sessfullypeting for talent, Shi Ning seized the opportunity.


    As for Mn Xiang, due to her recent exposure in the hot searches, her reputation had already gone downhill even before she had a chance to start.


    Shi Ning was a modern person who had been exposed to the fashion design industry since childhood.


    She understood the rules of this industry better than Rong Dai herself.


    Since the Brocade Embroidery Workshop was implicated in TK''s incident, Shi Ning''s situation definitely wouldn''t be any better.


    Although Rong Dai had yed a trick on her yesterday, Shi Ning''s anger at that time was definitely not feigned.


    "I think I understand why Shi Ning did this, to gain an advantage."


    Rong Dai''s face turned cold, and her eyes showed a chilly expression.


    Upon hearing her words, Lu Nianzhi immediately grasped the situation.


    "I''m really... infuriated!"


    During this period, Lu Nianzhi''s emotions had been fluctuating greatly due to Xuchuan''s matter. After understanding Shi Ning''s reasons, she was seething with anger, her face turning purple!


    Rong Dai''s heart turned cold. She hadn''t expected Shi Ning to be so visionary.


    The Brocade Embroidery Workshop had just suffered consequences, and Shi Ning had already made this n, seizing the opportunity.


    Now she was being bashed across the inte, while Shi Ning was being praised and sympathized with.


    Although someizens didn''t buy into the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s story, the poprity umted over the years couldn''t be easily destroyed.


    And at this moment, what Shi Ning needed was to prove her abilities!


    As long as she could turn the situation around and demonstrate her sufficient capability to lead the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, all the problems she faced would be resolved!


    Shi Ning was aware of her own abilities and knew that if there wasn''t any substantial evidence against her, the consequences would be devastating!


    But Shi Ning still took a reckless gamble!


    She took advantage of the hottest trending topics and released this, not only generating a lot of attention but also preventing Rong Dai from retaliating.


    At least Rong Dai couldn''t release what she had in her hands right now.


    If she did,izens would only use her of being vicious and doing anything for the sake ofpetition.


    If Shi Ning came forward and shed a few tears, herpany might copse even before it started. After all, who hasn''t been wild during their youth?


    Moreover, those videos and pictures couldn''t prove anything.


    What could she do to Shi Ning?


    "This Shi Ning, who seemed so well-behaved and clever when she was young, unexpectedly has so many thoughts!"


    Lu Nianzhi felt a surge of anger and had a lump in his throat after listening to Rong Dai''s analysis. It was infuriating!


    Most of the things Mn Xiang did, she handled them herself.


    Looking at this courtyard, which now looked decent and presentable, it felt like her own child.


    But even before it started, it had already been ravaged by a storm! How could she not be furious?

 Chapter 415: The Road is Blocked

    <h4>Chapter 415</h4>


    "She''s doing this not just to go against Magnolia Fragrance, but also to go against me," Rong Dai said in a low voice, recalling Master Shi Yue''s invitation to her back then.


    So there was thisyer of meaning behind it.


    Shi Ning waspetitive, Master Shi Yue must have known this clearly.


    Now Shi Ning had taken the lead in releasing this kind of news, she had already stolen the limelight.


    The ns she had made for Magnolia Fragrance could only be shelved now.


    Although the dish Shi Ning had served yesterday was a bit rotten, the effect was excellent.


    At least Ningyue Fashion now already had enough heat, and there were quite a few fans willing to buy.


    If she were to release the news now that Magnolia Fragrance was also going to hold a fashion show, those trolls would probably only bash her, maliciouspetition.


    Shi Ning had blocked all the things she wanted to do.


    No matter which angle she started from, Magnolia Fragrance would not be able to gain the upper hand.


    And Shi Ning''spetitive spirit was to defeat herself, to prove her excellence to Master Shi Yue.


    She understood Shi Ning''s arrogance, after all before she had appeared, among the younger generation, her fame wasparable to any popr celebrity.


    "Rong Dai, look at this...isn''t it very simr to your work?" Lu Nianzhi''s expression suddenly changed as she showed her a news item on her phone.


    Ningyue Fashion had released another photo grid with text, the nine outfits were very distinctive, and the photography technique was special too.


    As soon as the photo grid came out it attracted a lot of attention, fans immediately gathered in thements to ask when it would go on sale.


    A wave of retro fashion had arisen in China now, and even if it was only a small proportion chasing it, the sheer size of the billion plus poption meant the numbers were still shocking!


    Rong Dai studied the style of the nine outfits carefully, it was extremely simr to the works she had prepared for the TK fashion show.


    It could be called giarism, but ancient costumes were mostly of one style.


    And Jin Xiu Workshop was in this business, now even if she brought out her sketches and finished clothes, it wouldn''t have much impact, and fans wouldn''t take her side either.


    "How hateful! They actually giarized! Look at the patterns on these two pieces, they''re clearly copied from yours!" Lu Nianzhi raged!


    Rong Dai was much calmer, now Shi Ning''s aim was exposed, it was better than being led around by the nose by her opponent all this time.


    "It''s fine, now that we know her goal, things will be easier to handle."


    The things she had prepared for now no longer had any use.


    She could only prove her own ability with real strength, in order to reverse the situation.


    Because now no matter what she said or did, it was too passive.


    Lu Nianzhi took a deep breath, then immediately turned to open her suitcase and flipped open herptop.


    "Since we can''t do it domestically, let''s aim for overseas, what do you think?"


    As she switched on herptop, she tilted her head to ask Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai looked at her, lost in thought for a few seconds, and her eyes also lit up.


    Although the TK inaugural show in China had failed this time, it also let her see the opportunities.


    Chinese people were obsessed with international high-end luxury brands, and with some motivational chicken soup, the fervor of this pursuit was frightening!


    Her original goal was to bring her embroidered works onto the international stage anyway.


    "I''m not too familiar with the overseas market, tell me your thoughts first."


    She went over to Lu Nianzhi and sat down beside her, both staring at theptop screen.


    "GagenCluy, or GC for short, this is their invitation-only contest this year. GC is one of the gilded milestones in the fashion world, designers who get shortlisted see their worth shoot up."


    "GC was jointly established by many top international brands, not only to identify outstanding designers to join theirpanies, but also to showcase their own brands'' value."


    "So the GC contest every year gets a lot of attention, but so far only two Asian designers have ever been shortlisted, so getting into GC still has quite high value."


    Lu Nianzhi quickly exined to her.

 Chapter 416: The Other Assistant

    <h4>Chapter 416</h4>


    "Madam, there is someone knocking on the door outside. I asked, it''s a person sent by the CEO," the bodyguard came in to report.


    The two were discussing something when the bodyguard came in to report. Rong Dai remembered asking Huo Shao Ting for someonest night, and quickly instructed, "Let the person in quickly."


    The bodyguard nodded and turned to leave.


    Lu Nianzhi was stunned for a moment, then stared at Rong Dai: "You even hired an assistant behind my back?"


    Rong Dai exined with a smile, "I know Sister Nianzhi''s business ability is very strong, but there are too many things around me. It would be very tiring with just you alone."


    "Sost night I mentioned it to Shao Ting and asked him to find someone familiar with this industry toe and be my assistant. It won''t steal your limelight."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded without getting angry.


    Although she had done a lot of homework, this line of work Rong Dai was doing was indeed unfamiliar to her.


    If the things that had happened recently had anything to do with finance, she could have handled them perfectly!


    But for these matters of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and TK, she was at a loss. It wasn''t that she didn''t know how to solve problems, but that she didn''t understand this industry. To solve them perfectly was a difficult task.


    "Bossdy, I heard what you said. But I certainly won''tpete with the gold medal assistant for the limelight."


    Rong Dai''s words had just fallen when a mature yet charming voice barged into the ears of the two.


    Stepping in high heels, Ran Jing walked up to Rong Dai and smiled, holding out her hand, "I''ve always heard Old Zhang say how attractive thedy is. I''ve also seen her online. Seeing is believing. She is indeed a great beauty!"


    Rong Dai looked at the charming Ran Jing, a little confused.


    "I''m Ran Jing. I''m a designer in the fashion industry under Huo Shi Enterprise. Zhang Changdong, Huo CEO''s special assistant, is my husband."


    "Hello." Rong Dai nodded.


    Thinking of the almost eternally unchanged icy face of Assistant Zhang, looking at the charming and intelligent Ran Jing in front of her, she really couldn''t imagine what the two of them looked like together.


    "I know you! I should have thought of it earlier! I should have consulted you sooner. There wouldn''t have been so many problems now!"


    It took Lu Nianzhi several seconds to react. She patted her forehead in surprise and chagrin.


    "Ran Jing is one of the Asian designers who won the GC Silver Award. Of the two, she''s one of them!"


    Seeing Rong Dai''s confusion, she quickly exined to her.


    "It''s all in the past. The current GC has also changed its vor. Is thedy thinking of having Mn Xiang participate in GC''s invitation-onlypetition this year?"


    Ran Jing put down her handbag and asked with a faint smile.


    Rong Dai didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to send her such a heavyweight person. Apart from being touched, she was filled with strength!


    "I do have this idea. For now, Ning Yue Fashion is hyping my poprity for their own publicity."


    "Although I have something in hand, releasing it now will not only preventizens from scolding Shi Ning, it will have the opposite effect and be detrimental to me."


    "I was going to hold a small fashion show to open up the Shengjing market for Mn Xiang, and then promote and market it."


    "Under the current circumstances, a fashion show held by Mn Xiang won''t have much impact."


    Rong Dai exined.


    "I''ve seen the situation. Holding one now would indeed be very unfavorable for us."


    "But forget the GC invitation-onlypetition. I can introduce you to participate in another one. Although not as famous as the GC, it is absolutely the Big Dipper in the industry."


    Ran Jing spoke up. She had made full preparations early on.


    Otherwise, without this strong backing, how would she dare take on this fragile job?

 Chapter 417: Break the News to Her

    <h4>Chapter 417</h4>


    Upon hearing this, Rong Dai became curious too.


    To be an industry leader, this is no small feat.


    "The Wing of Fashion!"


    Lu Nianzhi blurted out almost at the same time!


    Rong Dai didn''t dare to ask, she just quietly looked at them, waiting for an exnation.


    The original host was a designer after all. She didn''t know much about these brands.


    "That''s The Wing of Fashion. It really is the industry leader! Even GC can''tpare. The founders were chief designers from the top five international high-end brands. The works they put out became ssics."


    "Although the people have retired, The Wing of Fashion event still has a good reputation. It''s just that thepetition requirements are very high, much harder than GC."


    Seeing that she wasn''t speaking, Lu Nianzhi knew Rong Dai didn''t know and immediately exined.


    "To get an invite to GC, as long as you''re willing to spend money, you can get in. It wasn''t like that when Ipeted a few years ago. Back then, it was all about real skills."


    "The Wing of Fashion is different. You must have a rmender and get an invitation before you canpete."


    "The rmender must also have status and reputation. I was fortunate to have studied under Master Billy for a year. I can rmend you."


    "But as for the invitation, I can''t get that done. For that, you''ll probably have to ask Chairman Huo toe out of retirement."


    Ran Jing said.


    Rong Dai thought for a moment. The Wing of Fashion was indeed her best option to counterattack Shi Ning and also use it as an opportunity to promote Mn Fragrance internationally.


    "I''ll ask him."


    As she took out her phone to call Huo Shaoting, he happened to call her.


    "Shaoting."


    "Were you hurt? I sent some security guards over. Pay attention to safety."


    "Just wait for me at thepany. I''lle get you after work."


    Before Rong Dai could say anything, Huo Shaoting immediately asked her. His tone was low and full of concern.


    "I''m fine, don''t worry."


    Rong Dai assured him. She had originally wanted to ask him about something but didn''t say it in the end.


    The married couple exchanged a few words and hung up.


    "Why didn''t you mention it to Chairman Huo?"


    Lu Nianzhi asked.


    Rong Dai shook her head and looked to Ran Jing. "Since The Wing of Fashion has this event, there must be official channels to obtain an invitation, right?"


    Ran Jing nodded. "There are, but it''d be very difficult to get an invite just by applying."


    "That''s fine. Let''s check the official channels first. If that doesn''t work, I can ask Shaotingter. No need to rush."


    Rong Dai was not deterred. Lu Nianzhi had been following her for a few months now and understood her thinking. She swiftly pulled up The Wing of Fashion''s official website.


    Rong Dai walked over. The English she had studied for months finally came in handy.


    With Ran Jing''s guidance, the application was quickly filled out and submitted.


    Now they could only wait.


    Rong Dai looked at the contact information on the official website and saved it on her phone.


    "Calling is useless. These kinds of applications are just a formality."


    Lu Nianzhi exined.


    Rong Dai faintly smiled. "I''m just noting it down."


    She couldn''t always rely on Shaoting. She couldn''t always wait for a crisis toe knocking and expect him to resolve everything.


    That was why she didn''t ask earlier.


    "Sister Nianzhi, do you or your friends on WeChat know Shi Ning, or know anyone who knows her?"


    After saving the phone number, Rong Dai took a photo with her phone, coincidentally capturing a corner of GC''s official website, while asking Lu Nianzhi.


    "I don''t have Shi Ning, but I do know people who know her. What are you nning?"


    Lu Nianzhi asked.


    Watching on the side, Ran Jing understood and smiled craftily. "Of course it''s to divert the other party''s attention."


    Rong Dai looked approvingly at Ran Jing. "Correct."


    "Shi Ning is focused on me right now. She pays extra attention to my every move. Ningyue Fashion is organizing a fashion show now. I want you to subtly leak the news that I n to enter GC to turn the tables, in her circle of friends."


    Fight fire with fire. She had been in this world for a while now. It was time for her counterattack.

 Chapter 418: She Won鈥檛 Allow It

    <h4>Chapter 418</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi understood and immediately sent the picture Dai Rong had sent to Moments after receiving it.


    The message got into Shi Ning''s eyes after circting for a while, as expected.


    "President Shi, doesn''t this look like the official GCpetition registration website?"


    The assistant saved the picture and showed it to Shi Ning.


    Shi Ning was putting on makeup, getting ready to personally take a set of promotional photos for her own clothing.


    She nced at the website with the corner of her eyes. She was an insider in the industry and naturally knew about GC''s shrinkage in recent years.


    She immediately disdained it with a soft scoff: "It''s just a ce you can go by spending money. It would''ve been worth considering a few years ago."


    "She has no way out now. As long as she dares to release any message right now, she''ll only get chased down by the entire."


    "If I were her, I would definitely find a way out too. Participating is the best choice."


    She wasn''t particrly surprised that Dai Rong wanted to participate in the GC event.


    The assistant seemed to understand: "Then...should we go too?"


    "Although you can participate by spending money, many people in China don''t know the rules in this field. I''m afraid that she might...after all, Huo''s Enterprise is not short on money."


    Shi Ning''s eyes became profound. She stared at herself in the mirror for a few seconds before instructing the assistant: "Keep an eye on it. Let me finish shooting this set of promotional photos first."


    She now needed to prepare for the fashion show. This was her first solo show and she couldn''t mess it up.


    But she also couldn''t ck off on Dai Rong''s side.


    Dai Rong''s emergence made her feel a sense of crisis, which she would not allow!


    The assistant nodded without daring to disturb her makeup any further.


    The situation was different outside Magnolia Fragrance, which was still blocked by many entertainment journalists.


    After all, Madam Huo''s identity itself came with traffic. Being able to dig up news about her meant there was hope for promotion and raise.


    The inside and outside of the yard were like two different worlds.


    After Lu Nianzhi released the message, the three of them stopped paying attention to it and instead focused on Magnolia Fragrance''s n.


    Although Lu Nianzhi had hardcore professional capabilities and Dai Rong had excellent works, the two of them only had a superficial understanding of this circle.


    Now that Ran Jing had joined, things became much easier.


    Looking at Dai Rong''s n, Ran Jing was quite approving.


    If it wasn''t for the emergence of Ningyue Fashion and the current online smearing of Dai Rong everywhere.


    Dai Rong''s n would have been very good, steady and eye-catching.


    "We can''t hold fashion shows for now, but we cane up with a set of works first," Ran Jing said.


    "We can''t stop putting out any works just because of Ningyue Fashion''s suppression on us."


    Dai Rong nodded. She wouldn''t let herpany swallow its anger and grief just because of Shi Ning''s little suppression.


    What should be done had to be done, it was just that some things were not suitable to confront head-on at this time.


    There was a saying that three people aplish a task. The nning went very smoothly.


    Dai Rong and Ran Jing were both designers. Afterpleting the n, what was left was for Lu Nianzhi to execute it.


    And Ran Jing would first help Dai Rong produce a set of works.


    Embroidery products, unlike other things, took time and effort.


    Dai Rong was full of motivation the whole afternoon andpleted the base drawings very quickly.


    "You did the essories too?"


    Seeing Dai Rong''s outstanding drawing skills, Ran Jing''s eyes were very appreciative.


    Dai Rong lifted her arms to stretch them after feeling tired, but her heart was very fulfilled.


    "essories are also very important. Intricately crafted unique essories are especially popr. What I make is unique. We''ll have to put Magnolia Fragrance''sbel on the finished products to prevent counterfeiting."

 Chapter 419: Mulan Xiang鈥檚 Future

    <h4>Chapter 419</h4>


    "essories, we can release a set first. I believe that beautiful things are irresistible to anyone."


    Rong Dai sipped her water, her voice light as she spoke. The confidence on her face was evident in her smile.


    Ran Jing didn''t immediately respond. Instead, she looked at the manuscript in her hand, her admiration growing in her eyes.


    "These essories... I''ve never seen them before. They are absolutely excellent pieces!"


    Rong Dai''s beautiful eyes sparkled with a smile. She had memories from two lifetimes!


    This was her ultimate cheat tool!


    In her past life, she was an ancient person. Although the fashion of Shangyuan Kingdom differed from the ancient civilization she knew in Huaxia, it didn''t diminish its beauty and uniqueness.


    And these essories were ones she had encountered in her previous life, though some craftsmanship had been lost over time.


    So she made some modifications that could be achieved with modern techniques.


    "I have a dream, and Mn Fragrance is not limited to making clothes."


    She looked at Ran Jing with a smile. This dream had existed in her heart from the beginning.


    But one must take things step by step and proceed steadily in order to achieve it.


    Ran Jing smiled charmingly. "I''m more familiar with the factories than Lu Nianzhi. If you''re willing, my suggestion is to coborate with the factories of the Huo Corporation."


    "The clothing industry of the Huo Corporation may not shine as brightly as the technology industry, but it is equally excellent. You should trust your husband''spany."


    "And if we coborate with the Huo Corporation, we''ll have better security."


    Rong Dai was taken aback. "Huo Corporation has its own clothing factories?"


    Ran Jing was surprised. "...You didn''t know?"


    Rong Dai shook her head, feeling a bit self-ming and disappointed.


    Ever since she arrived here, various things had been happening around her.


    She didn''t know much about the Huo Corporation''s affairs, and Shao Ting rarely talked to her about work matters.


    If they already had factories of their own, why did he bring her all the way to Suchengst time?


    The reason wasn''t difficult to guess. Initially, she had been full of ambition, firmly believing that she could surpass the Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    He had always known about her obstinacy, but he never opposed her directly. He justplied with her and gently guided her.


    Every little thing he did was filled with thoughtfulness and warmth.


    "I thought President Huo would have told you. All the industries under the Huo Corporation have their own fixed factories, and only a small portion is outsourced to other manufacturers."


    Ran Jing exined to her.


    "Then let''s coborate with the Huo factories."


    Rong Dai nodded. Of course, she could trust her own husband.


    Ran Jing nodded. "I''m familiar with this. I can take care of this matter."


    She paused for a moment, nced at the office where only the three of them were present, and continued, "Now that Ning Yue Fashion has made a move, whether we can recruit top talents or not, we must release recruitment information."


    "And we must have a strong team ofwyers because this industry is prone to disputes if one is not careful."


    "Especially now that you have caught Shi Ning''s attention. Because of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and Master Shi Yue, her poprity has always been high."


    "So we need to be more cautious, and we can''t do without awyer."


    Rong Dai earnestly opened her phone''s memo app. In all aspects, Ran Jing and Lu Nianzhi were both stronger than her.


    "I suggest keeping the original manuscript in a safe at thepany or taking it home. It''s crucial for designers."


    "However, now that ourpany has attracted attention, I think it''s safer for you to take it home, or I can keep it for you."


    Ran Jing spoke up. She, too, was a designer by profession and understood that the entire process of creating a piece, from conception topletion, was like giving birth for designers.


    Regardless of its quality, it was their designer''s pride and joy.

 Chapter 420: Pick Her Up from Work

    <h4>Chapter 420</h4>


    "That''s fine, you can keep it with you so that it''s convenient when you contact the factory," Rong Dai nodded. She knew that Ran Jing had more experience in this area than herself.


    "The recruitment information has already been posted. I wonder how the results will turn out," Lu Nianzhi finished her own work, took a sip of coffee, and put it down. She looked at Rong Dai and asked, "By the way, how are your two ssmates doing?"


    Thinking of Song Xuechun and Liang Jiayi, she actually preferred Liang Jiayi toe over.


    However, things don''t always go as desired. Liang Jiayi had her own career ns, and Lu Nianzhi couldn''t morally force her toe to thepany to work.


    "Jiayi is preparing to study abroad, but Xuechun wille," Rong Dai replied.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded and made careful ns. "We''recking people in various positions nowwyers, designers, embroiderers, and models."


    Looking around the office with only the three of them, Lu Nianzhi felt a bit overwhelmed.


    "Since the recruitment notices have already been posted, all we can do now is wait. If necessary, I''ll personally take action. I haven''t learned to walk the runway for nothing during this time," she said.


    Rong Dai wasn''t particrly worried about this issue.


    They would definitely find people because no one would turn down money.


    The only concern was their level of expertise.


    The three women were highly efficient in their work. While they were talking, the door to Mn Fragrance opened, and Rong Dai looked through the French windows and saw Huo Shao Ting walking toward them in a sleek suit.


    "Tsk tsk, my friend Zhang said that when General Manager Huo, this iron tree, starts to blossom, it can make people sick with sweetness! Who would have thought that the usually icy-faced General Manager Huo would be so doting," Ran Jing teased.


    Rong Dai''s face blushed easily. With a charming smile on her delicate face, she picked up her bag and phone. "You two should go back as well. We have a tough battle to fight these days."


    "Just go ahead. I''ll finish up the work at hand!" Lu Nianzhi urged her. As she watched Rong Dai holding hands and embracing Huo Shao Ting, the image of Xu Chuan involuntarily appeared in her mind.


    "What are you still busy with? We''re seriously short-staffed now, and there''s not much we can do these days. Do you want to go out for a meal together?" Ran Jing leaned against the desk. Every word and action she made exuded a seductive charm. She was a very enchanting woman.


    Once Lu Nianzhi was out of work mode, she would be a bit dejected.


    "I feel like having hot pot. What about the one in Dongzi Alley? Shall we go?" Ran Jing yfully tousled her hair, her smilezy and captivating.


    The two of them then packed up and left Mn Fragrance.


    When Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting came out together, the entertainment reporters didn''t dare to be as audacious as they were with Rong Dai before. They only held their cameras at a distance and took pictures.


    "It''s all thanks to you and your influence. When you came this morning, I almost got hit in the face," Rong Dai said firmly as she sat in the passenger seat and fastened her seatbelt. She couldn''t help butment.


    "They won''t dare anymore in the future," Huo Shao Ting replied. After getting into the car, instead of immediately starting the engine, he reached over and adjusted her hair, then adjusted her seat to the mostfortable angle.


    Rong Dai greatly enjoyed his kindness towards her, and after spending a lot of mental energy on sketching in the afternoon, she was indeed a bit tired.


    As the couple walked back to the Hua Fu Mountain City in the glow of dusk, they saw Huo Mei Shu waiting outside the courtyard, indicating that she had been there for a while.


    Seeing her younger sister-inw here, Rong Dai thought about the words she had said to her in the morning. Although she wasn''t particrly angry, there was still a slight sense of disappointment towards her younger sister-inw.


    She knew that her younger sister-inw was thinking of the harmony of this family. Her younger sister-inw had been raised by their mother-inw and had a deep emotional bond with her. Rong Dai could understand all of this.


    But none of this required her to abandon her own bottom line and principles, to please anyone without limits.


    In her past life, the consequences of doing so had dealt a devastating blow to the Rong Family. In this life, she could not possibly repeat such a mistake.

 Chapter 421: To Apologize to Sister-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 421</h4>


    ��Big brother, sister-inw, you��re back!��


    Huo Mei Shu''s face was lightly made up, and she didn''t look as haggard and disheveled as she did yesterday.


    She softly greeted the couple, but didn��t dare raise her head to look at them.


    Especially when facing Rong Dai, she didn''t dare look at all, only staring at her own toes.


    Rong Dai also didn''t know what her young sister-inw was here for, but as long as she wasn''t bringing up what was said this morning, there was no problem.


    "Come in first," she said, walking in front with Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Mei Shu followed behind the couple like a primary school student who had done something wrong, very nervous after entering the vi.


    "Big...big brother, I''vee to apologize to sister-inw!"


    She hadn''t changed her shoes, just stood behind the door with a flushed face looking at the couple.


    Huo Shao Ting pursed his lips without speaking, only looking at his wife with puzzled eyes.


    Rong Dai hadn''t told him about the unpleasantness with her young sister-inw this morning. She looked at Huo Mei Shu, "You don''t need to apologize to me, as long as you don''t make that request again in the future."


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head like a rattle drum, looking at her with very guilty eyes.


    After she had gone home today, she was scolded by Grandma. If not for Grandma, she really would have almost been brainwashed by her own mother!


    She was originally unwilling to believe it. How could Mom take advantage of her?


    Later, Grandma made a phone call to Hainan in front of her. As soon as her mother Lu Zheng heard it was the olddy''s voice on the phone, her arrogant attitude extinguished.


    With just a few words, Grandma made her mother Lu Zheng baldly confess everything herself. She simply couldn''t believe those words hade from her mother''s mouth!


    Yesterday when getting off the ne, Second Brother had also told her not to listen to what Mom said, and not to get involved in this matter, otherwise things would only get worse.


    She didn''t listen, so that was why she had made such an offensive request to sister-inw this morning after Big Brother left.


    She had already forgotten how she was thinking this morning. She just kept seeing her crying mother in her mind over and over, and she couldn''t help feeling heartache.


    Now when she thought about it, if she had put herself in sister-inw''s position, she probably would have exploded with anger on the spot!


    She thought sister-inw would tell Big Brother about this, but apparently she hadn''t.


    Huo Mei Shu was sensitive, and her eyes instantly turned red again. Rong Dai was younger than her, yet what had she done?


    "No, sister-inw, I must apologize for this!"


    She shook her head and looked at the couple with brave eyes.


    "I shouldn''t have made such an offensive request to you sister-inw. Grandma scolded me today, andter made a call to Mom."


    "I didn''t expect...Mom just wanted to take advantage of me."


    Huo Mei Shu said in a self-reproachful, lost, and pained tone. Her mother''s words on the phone were still echoing in her mind even now.


    Rong Dai looked at her. This silly girl.


    She hadn''t held her ountable for the matter this morning, having guessed that she was influenced by her mother-inw.


    She had just stopped her from speaking it out because Shao Ting was present.


    If Shao Ting knew the young sister-inw had made such a request of her, he would be furious when angry, which the young sister-inw couldn''t withstand.


    But now the young sister-inw''s words also surprised her. She could understand mother-inw being distraught after enduring Yan Zhong Jun''s actions.


    But mother-inw''s current actions were simply as if she had be a different person.


    For the young sister-inw to say these words, it meant she must know something. Otherwise she wouldn''t havee to apologize either.


    "I''m sorry sister-inw, can you forgive me? I...won''t meddle in this matter anymore."


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her with red, teary eyes, asking tearfully.

 Chapter 422: Go to Work for Her Company.

    <h4>Chapter 422</h4>


    Rong Dai nodded gently, looking at Huo Mei Shu and said: "I ept your apology, let''s not say anything else."


    Tears welled up in Huo Mei Shu''s eyes: "Thank you, sister-inw!"


    After speaking, she secretly nced at Huo Shao Ting standing to one side, and looked expectantly at Rong Dai again, hesitating for a few seconds before asking: "Sister-inw, can I work at yourpany?"


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment. Seeing that she was still standing at the door, she said: "Sit down and we''ll talk."


    Huo Shao Ting still did not speak. He just nced lightly at Huo Mei Shu and went into the kitchen to cook after taking off his suit jacket.


    "Sister-inw, I know my abilities are limited, but your studio is also short of people now. Although I majored in music, I have spent some time with you."


    "I can help you! I... haven''t decided whether to go abroad or not yet."


    After sitting down, Huo Mei Shu looked at her expectantly.


    She still could not let go of Gu Chengyan.


    Although the family had gone through various incidents recently which temporarily distracted her from thinking about this matter.


    But now that everything had settled down, she could not control her mind and couldn''t help thinking about Gu Chengyan.


    Staying at home doing nothing also made her feel useless, although she had no shortage of money to spend. But the recent events had a huge impact on her.


    Everyone in the family was busy, only she was the most free.


    Sister-inw was two years younger than her, but was much harder working than herself, which made Huo Mei Shu feel ashamed.


    Rong Dai understood her thoughts, but this was a matter between the young aunt and Gu Chengyan. As an outsider, it was not good for her to interfere too much.


    Her studio was indeed short of manpower now, so it was okay to let the young aunt work there.


    "That''s not a problem. I''m just worried that you are not in a good state now. Thepany has just started and is already under attack frompetitors."


    "I''m afraid you can''t endure this hardship."


    Rong Dai spoke tactfully. Although the young aunt had done quite well at the film and television city,


    Huo Shao Ting had already arranged enough manpower, and there wasn''t much for the young aunt to do, so it was not difficult to cope.


    But Mn Fragrance had just started, and everyone had to work at their best.


    The young aunt had been pampered since childhood. She was just worried that she could not endure this hardship, and would hold grudges against herselfter, which would be more loss than gain.


    "Sister-inw, I understand what you mean, but I can endure hardship!"


    Huo Mei Shu was not stupid either, of course she could hear the subtext in Rong Dai''s words.


    Rong Dai did not reply immediately. Her beautiful eyes looked at her. Huo Mei Shu sighed lightly, and her tone was a little low: "I''ve also been thinking these days, I think... I''ll wait a little longer."


    She was reluctant and had not given up hope. She wanted to give herself another chance.


    If Gu Chengyan really only cared about Gu Mingci, then no matter how painful it was, she would have to let go.


    Rong Dai understood the young aunt''s entanglement and feelings. Looking at her pensively for a moment, she finally said, "You cane to work at Mn Fragrance. The probation period is three months."


    "I think this time should be enough for you to settle everything. You didn''t major in design. Staying in other industries for a long time will affect your profession."


    Huo Mei Shu did not object either. She nodded happily: "Thank you, sister-inw."


    Rong Dai smiled and nodded. Hearing the sound from the kitchen, she asked, "Are you staying for dinner?"


    Huo Mei Shu thought of her eldest brother''s icy face and felt stifled inside. She quickly shook her head and stood up, "No, I''ll go apany grandma."


    Rong Dai did not keep her either. After instructing her on the time to report to thepany, she sent the young aunt off and went into the kitchen.

 Chapter 423: It Costs Nothing

    <h4>Chapter 423</h4>


    She hugged Huo Shao Ting from behind, looking at the man''s perfect profile, his movements cutting vegetables were so clean and neat, and so handsome.


    "Are you sure you want to let her go to work at Mn Xiang?"


    Huo Shao Ting cut vegetables and ted while asking her.


    The kitchen on the first floor was semi-open, so he could hear their conversation from earlier.


    Rong Dai let go of her hands and rolled up her sleeves to help him pick and wash vegetables.


    "It''s only three months. Mei Shu doesn''t have any malice, she just cares about her mother, that''s all."


    "Also, she probably hasn''t gotten over Mr. Gu yet."


    She paused for a moment, looking at the vegetables in her hands, tilting her head to look at him, "Do you have any news about Mr. Gu?"


    "It''s been a while since Mei Shu left his studiost time. Other than the phone call he made to mest time, I haven''t heard anything about him."


    Huo Shao Ting stopped chopping vegetables, squinting at her. His tone was full of vinegar.


    "Are you concerned about another man?"


    Rong Daiughed helplessly, "I''m just concerned about Mei Shu''s matters."


    Hearing her say this, Huo Shao Ting''s expression eased. "Let them handle their own affairs. Now you need to focus on the studio."


    "Have you decided how to deal with Ningyue Fashion''s matter today? She''s been hounding you, and is already prepared."


    "Releasing the information about you won''t do anything, it will only disadvantage you."


    Rong Dai put the washed vegetables into the basket. Her expression was serious as she replied, "I won''t admit defeat."


    "Thank you for assigning Ran Jing to be by my side. She''s so capable, you assigned her to me. What will Huo Group do without her?"


    "Now that she''s assigned to you, don''t worry about other things."


    "I signed up for The Wing of Fashion''spetition."


    Rong Dai dried her hands, leaning against the side looking into his eyes seriously telling him.


    "This time Ningyue prepared very thoroughly. No matter what I do now will be questioned. Since I can''t make any progress domestically for the time being, I''ll try going abroad first."


    Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed slightly, "Thepetition for The Wing of Fashion is in May. The official registration channels will likely all be declined."


    "The direct participants are basically all rmended by famous designers in the industry. Although Ran Jing also has this qualification, you don''t have an invitation card."


    "Is it that strict?"


    Rong Dai felt a little disappointed. Ran Jing said it wasn''t likely earlier in the day, but she didn''t quite believe it. After all, it was the official channel, they should at least pretend, right?


    She didn''t expect it to be directly declined.


    Huo Shao Ting put down the vegetable knife in his hand. As he washed and dried his hands, he ced both hands on her slender waist, looking at her earnestly.


    "I know you want to prove you have this capability, but don''t forget your husband also has the same capability. Don''t stand on ceremony when it''s time to use it."


    Although The Wing of Fashion was a smallpetition, it was one of the top few in fashion circles.


    Winning The Wing of Fashion would be the best way to p Ningyue Fashion in the face!


    "Can you get an invitation card? Will it require money?"


    Rong Dai sniffed, she just didn''t want to leave everything for him to handle. She wanted to try her best first for some matters. If she couldn''t do it, she still had him.


    Thinking about how he spent 2-3 billion just to postpone TK for ten days, her heart ached!


    Huo Shao Ting raised his hand to tidy her hair, "No money, just a trip abroad."


    "That''s it?"


    Rong Dai could hardly believe it. Ran Jing and Lu Nianzhi had already told her earlier in the day what a big deal The Wing of Fashionpetition was!

 Chapter 424: It鈥檚 not good for your Health.

    <h4>Chapter 424</h4>


    "That''s how it is."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was soft as he leaned down to give her a light kiss by her ear. "The kitchen is heavy with greasy fumes. Go rest, and you''ll feel better soon."


    Hearing his response, Rong Dai felt relieved.


    She knew he wouldn''t deceive her.


    She had originally nned to show off a bit, but Huo Shao Ting had chased her out.


    As she set the tableware and ced it on the table, her phone rang.


    "Xuechun, is there something you need?"


    After answering the call, she asked first.


    From the other end of the line came Song Xuechun''s rxed and slightly teasing voice. "Did I interrupt your lovey-dovey time with President Huo?"


    "Not really. How are things going between you and Jiayi?"


    Rong Dai chuckled, wondering if she and Shao Ting were really that obvious.


    "We talked, but she still wants to go abroad. Everyone has their own aspirations, and I won''t force her."


    Song Xuechun sighed, her tone no longer as agitated as that day.


    "I''ve been following the news online these past couple of days. It seems that Shi Ning is targeting you! Did you have a conflict with Miss Shi?"


    When Shi Ning was mentioned, Rong Dai''s gaze deepened. "It''s true that we had a conflict, but you will know more about itter."


    Shi Ning currently has the advantage in terms of timing, location, and people. Although Jinxiu Lane has faced scrutiny this time, it has provided Ning Yue Fashion with a great opportunity to step into the public eye.


    "I have already arranged the courses with the teachers at school. I can start at thepany tomorrow. Have we hired anyone at ourpany yet?"


    Song Xuechun asked her.


    "The situation may not be too optimistic. We should know the specifics in a few days."


    Thinking about the hiring process, Rong Dai also felt the pressure.


    Mng Fragrance offered very generous benefits, but now Mng Fragrance is in the midst of controversy. Meanwhile, Shi Ning, relying on Jinxiu Lane and her own poprity, has managed to attract top-tier talent.


    She even worried that no one would pay attention to Mng Fragrance''s recruitment information.


    "Don''t worry too much. No matter how powerful Ning Yue Fashion is, it''s just a small fish in a big pond. Can she really lure away all the designers and embroiderers in the entire capital city?"


    Song Xuechunforted her. She always approached problems with a more optimistic mindset.


    Rong Dai agreed, and after chatting for a while, they hung up.


    Huo Shao Ting, wearing an apron around his waist, brought out the food. The couple had dinner together, and Huo Shao Ting received a call from his assistant, while Rong Dai took her clothes and went to the bathroom to freshen up.


    When Huo Shao Ting finished the call and went upstairs, he saw Rong Dai, who had just finished bathing,ing out of the bathroom. His gaze became somewhat resentful.


    Rong Dai''s ears turned slightly red, and when she saw his expression, she took the initiative to embrace his waist. "It''s not good for your health like this."


    Her body hadn''t fully recovered yet. She had spent a few months in the film and television city, and after returning, so many things had happened that their intimate moments had been scarce.


    Huo Shao Ting understood what she meant, but his desire for her went beyond just the physical aspect; it extended to her heart as well.


    "As for the invitation card from Fashion Wings, this time we don''t need to go abroad. The other party is a former judge of Fashion Wings."


    "Mrs. Huo, you need to make some preparations."


    He didn''t dwell on the earlier matter and instead told her the good news.


    Rong Dai''s eyes immediately lit up, and then she pondered for a few seconds. "I will be prepared."


    Since she was a judge for Fashion Wing, she couldn''t take it lightly.


    "I will schedule the time for you."


    Rong Dai nodded and leaned forward to lightly kiss his cheek. "Go freshen up quickly. I will take a look at the award-winning works of Fashion Wing in recent years to get a better understanding."

 Chapter 425: You Pick One

    <h4>Chapter 425</h4>


    The next morning, after moving into their new home, Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai got into the habit of cooking at home.


    Early in the morning, the couple made breakfast together.


    After breakfast, Huo Shao Ting and Rong Dai went to work together.


    "I''ll take you there and pick you up after work in the evening."


    Now that Rong Dai was by his side, Huo Shao Ting''s driver was going to be unemployed. He took the initiative to drive Rong Dai to Magnolia Fragrance.


    The car stopped, and Huo Shao Ting''s gaze keenly swept the window. He could still see three to five reporters squatting outside.


    "Well... I''ll message you."


    Rong Dai did not refuse. She enjoyed the time the two of them spent together.


    "Are you sure you want to get out of the car like this, Mrs. Huo?"


    Seeing that she had finished speaking and was about to open the car door to get out, Huo Shao Ting turned his head to look at her. His voice was slightly upswept, full of deep meaning.


    Rong Dai''s face flushed red. After releasing her seatbelt, she took the initiative to lean over to him and gave him a quick peck on the lips before hurrying out of the car!


    "Drive safely!"


    Her nervous, shy voice could still be heard after the car door closed.


    Huo Shao Ting had one hand on the steering wheel, his eyes gazing at her fondly as she entered the doors of Magnolia Fragrance. His long, slender fingers covered his lips, with an indulgent yet somewhat wicked smile.


    Only then did he leave Magnolia Fragrance and turn around to go to Huo''s Skyscraper.


    When he arrived at his office, Zhang Assistant immediately briefed him on today''s work tasks.


    "Put those aside for now. Go contact Tao Yaofang and try to arrange a meeting this afternoon."


    Although he had said he would not interfere with her affairs, she was his wife after all. He didn''t need to get involved, but he still wanted to provide some assistance.


    Zhang Assistant had gotten quite used to this state of his these days. Anything rted to his wife took absolute priority over everything else.


    When Rong Dai arrived at Magnolia Fragrance, Lu Nianzhi and Ran Jing were already there, both immersed in their work at their posts.


    As soon as Rong Dai walked in, Huo Mei Shu and Song Xuechun also arrived one after the other.


    This was Huo Mei Shu''s first time here. Seeing the antique, ssical courtyard filled with ancient charm, she could hardly believe this was apany.


    "Sister-inw, yourpany is too amazing!"


    "This isn''t apany at all! It''s more like a resort!"


    Rong Dai smiled at the two of them, "Come on in first, there will be plenty of time to look around slowlyter."


    In the hugepany, there were only the five of them. Although it seemed a little deserted, the five were full of confidence.


    "Boss Rong, this is the contract I got back from Huo''s Factory yesterday that I contacted. Please take a look."


    Seeing Rong Daie in, Ran Jing was as charming as ever, but her eyes shone withpetence and shrewdness. No one would associate her with the kind of woman from the demimonde.


    "What did you call me?"


    Rong Dai was startled for a moment as she took the contract.


    "Boss Rong. Is there a problem? Should I still call you Rong Dai?"


    Ran Jing smiled and brushed back her bangs, looking at Rong Dai with a hint of mockery in her beautiful eyes.


    Rong Dai thought about it. The people around Huo Shao Ting all called him Boss Huo, so it didn''t seem wrong for Ran Jing to call her Boss Rong.


    She just wasn''t used to it yet, but these were all trivial matters.


    "From now on at thepany I''ll call you Boss Rong. Outside of thepany I''ll call you Little Dai, Dai''er, or Rong''er. You pick one."


    Ran Jing said to her, her gaze falling on Song Xuechun and Huo Mei Shu behind Rong Dai.


    Song Xuechun was bold in front of people she knew well and had an outgoing personality.


    But when meeting strangers, especially someone like Ran Jing who was clearly not easy to bully at first nce, she became reticent.


    Rong Dai said helplessly, "Jing jie, feel free to call me whatever you like."


    "This is Huo Mei Shu, I probably don''t need to introduce her."


    Seeing the look of appraisal in Ran Jing''s eyes, she took a half step to the side and introduced the two of them.


    "Huo''s precious daughter, nice to meet you!" Ran Jing nodded. Her gaze was full of interest as itnded on Song Xuechun.

 Chapter 426: Corporate Legal Affairs

    <h4>Chapter 426</h4>


    "This is my ssmate, Song Xuechun, who also studies ssical design," Rong Dai introduced her.


    "Hello..." Song Xuechun was a bit nervous, stuttering and bowing in a slightly flustered manner.


    Ran Jing''s charming face revealed a smile as she yfully asked, "Am I that scary?"


    "N-no, not at all..." Song Xuechun stammered, her face turning red.


    "It''s alright, you''ll get used to it. Just call me Sister Jing from now on, following President Rong," Ran Jing smiled and gracefully turned back to her own workstation.


    "Then, Sister-inw... can I also call you President Rong at thepany?" Lu Nianzhi and Ran Jing were acquainted, but this was a workce, and it didn''t seem appropriate to address her as sister-inw.


    Rong Dai didn''t mind, saying, "It''s fine, it''s just a title."


    Since there were fewer employees in thepany, the two could choose their own positions casually.


    "President Rong, I''ve reviewed the contract, and there are no issues," Lu Nianzhi said. "But personally, I suggest that thepany''s legal affairs be taken care of as soon as possible. Also, regarding the draft you gave me yesterday, I''ve consulted with the factory, and they can provide us with samples within a week. So, we need to sign the contract quickly, but without legal support, the contract can''t be finalized."


    Ran Jing had just scrolled a few times on her mouse when she turned her chair back and said to her.


    Rong Dai nodded, understanding the importance ofw in this era.


    However, finding a suitable and reliable legal counsel all of a sudden was indeed a difficult problem.


    "I will arrange it as soon as possible," she nodded, turned around, and prepared to enter her own office.


    "Is President Rong of Magnolia Fragrance here?" Just as she was about to leave, she heard someone knocking on the door and inquiring. The voice sounded somewhat familiar.


    She turned around and looked at Ji Zheng, who stood elegantly in a suit by the door frame. She couldn''t help but be confused, "Mr. Ji?"


    Wasn''t the issue with An Feiya''s inheritance already resolved?


    Ji Zheng''s gaze fell on her, holding a briefcase in his hand, with two young people behind him.


    "President Rong, long time no see!" Ji Zheng walked towards her, and when he reached her, he looked up and took a nce at the office environment.


    "Not bad, working in this kind of environment is indeedfortable."


    Rong Dai looked at him in confusion, "Mr. Ji, may I ask what brings you here?"


    Ji Zheng shifted his gaze back to her and took out a contract from his briefcase, handing it to her.


    "Huo Shao Ting dispatched me to serve as Magnolia Fragrance''s legal counsel. This is the contract. President Rong, please take a look first."


    "The term is one year, and during this year, if you find a suitable recement for me as your legal advisor, you can inform me at any time."


    Ji Zheng got straight to the point.


    He had seen Rong Dai a few times and was well aware of this woman''s beauty.


    Although he wasn''t from the entertainment industry, he still followed the news.


    Especially since his rtionship with Huo Shao Ting went beyond that of superior and subordinate, he had a good understanding of Huo Shao Ting''s character.


    Decades of being the same, unchanging icy face, always appearing indifferent to everyone he spoke with.


    However, in these past few months, Huo Shao Ting has undergone significant changes. He never expected that such a cold man could be so shamelessly doting on his wife!


    He, a prestigious gold-medalwyer and consultant, was unexpectedly dispatched here to do the work!


    But... what choice did he have?


    President Huo has two major hobbies: sending legal letters and using money to bully people.


    He may have wealth, but he never finds it excessive.

 Chapter 427: Trust His Expertise

    <h4>Chapter 427</h4>


    Rong Dai did not look at the contract. Firstly, she could not understand it, and secondly, looking at it would not help.


    She just thought back to the time when she met Ji Zheng at the restaurantst time and bumped into Shi Ning then.


    He and Shi Ning have a brother-sister rtionship.


    By asking Ji Zheng to serve as the legal advisor for Mn Fragrance, wasn''t Huo Shao Ting getting him to deal with Shi Ning?


    After all, there would definitely be nock ofpetition between Mn Fragrance and Ning Yue Fashion in the future.


    "Ha... I almost forgot that Miss Rong has met my sister before, who is Shi Ning."


    "What?"


    Song Xuechun was shocked. As soon as she spoke, she hurriedly covered her own mouth, while Lu Nianzhi and the other two remained calm.


    To them, this was not a secret at all, they were just curious about what Huo Shao Ting meant by doing this.


    "Miss Rong need not worry. I studiedw, I would not joke about my professional ethics."


    "If Ning Yue Fashion has infringed on the rights and interests of Mn Fragrance, I will show no mercy."


    Ji Zheng is smart. Seeing that she did not speak, he naturally guessed Rong Dai''s concerns.


    Rong Dai looked at him for a few seconds before nodding, "I believe in Mr. Ji''s professionalism."


    Ji Zheng was a little embarrassed, would she only say this sentence?


    Moreover, he did not feel sincerity in her words.


    She clearly chose to believe in him because she believed in Huo Shao Ting.


    "That''s great then. With Brother Ji here to serve as legal advisor, I can rx about the factory side of things."


    Ran Jing spoke up, looking at Ji Zheng with mocking eyes.


    Ji Zheng''s face immediately turned red and he hurriedly coughed lightly, "Sister Ran, can you not call me by my name?"


    Ran Jing''s beautiful eyes suddenly narrowed, "Are you older than me? Or are you very bothered by me calling you Brother Ji?"


    Ji Zheng coughed lightly again and quickly averted his eyes to the two people behind him, "Xin Chen, Long Hang, both graduated from the School of Law and Politics."


    "Miss Rong."


    Xin Chen and Long Hang looked at Rong Dai respectfully.


    Rong Dai looked at the two grown men who were even older than her calling her Miss Rong, it felt very strange.


    "Since this is the case, the office is still very empty, just choose wherever you like to sit."


    Since these people were sent by Shao Ting, and Shao Ting could trust them, she would trust them too.


    Moreover, she also believed in Ji Zheng''s character.


    Ji Zheng nodded and took the two to find a rtively quiet corner to settle down, quickly tidying up his office supplies.


    After Rong Dai entered the office and put down the contract, she was about to go pour some water when Ji Zheng knocked on the door.


    "Come in."


    Ji Zheng sat opposite her, first nced around her office, then handed her another contract, "Chairman Huo asked me to give this to you. He said it was preferential treatment for Miss Rong''s work."


    Rong Dai was puzzled. She took it and read it carefully. This was a cooperation contract between Mn Fragrance and Huo Garment Factory.


    The terms given to her were very favorable.


    "Will... anyone in the Huo Group object to this?"


    She was warmed by his thoughtful arrangements. She knew he was already trying very hard to restrain himself from interfering in her affairs.


    Although she was capable, after all, she had not lived in this era for decades, so her abilities were very limited.


    She did not mind Mn Fragrance being affiliated with Huo Group enterprises.


    Ji Zheng smiled, "He is the emperor of the Huo Group. This does not harm anyone''s interests, who would dare provoke him?"


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and put the contract on the table, "Then I''ll have to trouble you. I can''tpare with the Huo Group here, especially since mypetitor is your sister."


    "Although I believe in Mr. Ji''s character and abilities, there are some things I still want to say first."


    "If in the future Mr. Ji feels that there is no way to resolve the conflicts between Mn Fragrance and Ning Yue Fashion, or if it makes you feel conflicted or anxious, please let me know as soon as possible."

 Chapter 428: Mulan Fragrance Has No Future

    <h4>Chapter 428</h4>


    Ji Zheng looked at her and paused for a few seconds before replying to her, "No problem."


    Rong Dai gazed straight at him. If Ji Zheng had given her those fancy answers or guarantees, she might have really discussed it with Shao Ting when she got back. But his response made her feel at ease.


    "Alright then. I hope Mr. Ji will be happy working here. Please ask Nian Zhi and Ran Jing about the rest of things. They handle most of thepany affairs."


    She nodded and Ji Zheng did not say anything unnecessary. He got up and left.


    "It really makes me mad!"


    Ji Zheng had just walked out when an infuriated roar came from the office area.


    Because of the sudden appearance of Ningyue Fashion, it had disrupted Magnolia Fragrance''s pace. So the new colleagues who had just joined today did not have much to do.


    Only Lu Nianzhi and Ran Jing were busy with recruitment and interviews.


    Song Xuechun and Huo Mei Shu were close in age and soon chatted happily.


    When they heard Lu Nianzhi''s angry roar, the air in the office froze for a few seconds.


    Rong Dai knew that Lu Nianzhi had been emotionally unstable recently due to the influence of Xu Chuan.


    Also, things were not too busy in thepany now and they needed to be arranged properly before operation couldmence.


    Recruitment was probably the most urgent thing at hand now.


    So when she heard Lu Nianzhi''s roar, she came out.


    "Sister Nian Zhi, what''s wrong?"


    She walked to Lu Nianzhi''s side and put a hand on her shoulder to ask.


    Lu Nianzhi''s chest heaved with anger. She mmed her pen heavily on the table, making a loud bang. "Ningyue Fashion is simply too much!"


    Ran Jing, Huo Mei Shu and Song Xuechun also walked over.


    "I had already received several resumesst night, and people who said they woulde for interviews today."


    "But look at the replies they are giving now! They went to Ningyue Fashion instead, and said Magnolia Fragrance has no future!"


    "Damn them! Ningyue Fashion is the one without a future! Despicable jerks!"


    Lu Nianzhi cursed angrily. The formerly capable and shrewd image of the strong woman was gone.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly. Although she had expected this might happen, she still could not quite believe it when it really did.


    Just as Song Xuechun had told herst night, Beijing was so big with so many designers, models and other professionals that Ningyue Fashion could not possibly recruit them all.


    But the facts were now right before her eyes.


    "Calm down first. We did expect something like this might happen."


    "What attractive offers did Ningyue give?"


    Rong Dai looked calm and her mind was veryposed.


    "Ningyue has announced that anyone who applies and joins theirpany will have the opportunity to enter Brocade Embroidery Workshop in the future."


    "Isn''t this cheating?! Using Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s reputation to suppress us, how despicable! Shameless!"


    Lu Nianzhi was furious, especially since her mood had been greatly affected recently.


    Rong Dai was not angry. Time Ning doing this was within reason.


    "It''s alright. There will still be peopleing to apply. Ningyue can''t amodate them all."


    Sheforted Lu Nianzhi, and alsoforted herself.


    With this happening, the atmosphere in thepany was not very good. Rong Dai sat in the office all morning and printed some documents.


    "What does everyone want for lunch? My treat."


    There had not been much work progress in the morning.


    The only thing going smoothly was the draft given yesterday - as the contract had already been signed, Ran Jing had sent over the sample draft, and the finished product coulde out within a week.

 Chapter 429: A Different Path

    <h4>Chapter 429</h4>


    The work was not making progress, they couldn''t find people, so thepany had no way to get the operations started. Other than Ji Zheng, Ran Jing, and Huo Meishu, everyone else''s emotions were affected by Lu Nianzhi''s influence, and the mood was very low.


    Seeing no one responding, Rong Dai nced at the western restaurant across from Mnxiang: "Then let''s eat western food."


    "Sister-inw... no, Manager Rong, let me go order the food. The restaurant is close to thepany, so they should be able to deliver to thepany."


    Huo Meishu saw that still no one was talking, and since she knew there was little she could do, she volunteered.


    Rong Dai looked at the people in the office. Ji Zheng and Ran Jing were both very busy because the things in their hands had already started.


    "Then thank you for the trouble."


    Huo Meishu shook her head, grabbed her bag and went out.


    "Let''s all go to the conference room first. Although we are short on manpower now, there are still some things we need to discuss first."


    After she finished speaking, she first went into the conference room. Lu Nianzhi, still angry, grabbed a pen and notebook and followed her in.


    The conference room was thergest office area in thepany, and still looked very empty after a few people sat down.


    After sitting down, Rong Dai handed out printed documents to everyone, and also put a copy in Huo Meishu''s spot.


    "Take a look first, and feel free to provide any feedback."


    No one spoke, and they all read the documents carefully.


    Huo Meishu worked efficiently. After half an hour, she came back carrying food boxes, followed by a service staff member from the restaurant who helped arrange the dishes on the conference table.


    "Let''s eat while we talk. Meishu, take a look at the documents too."


    Rong Dai pulled some napkins for her and motioned for her to look at the documents on the table.


    After Huo Meishu sat down catching her breath, she picked up the documents and started reading them carefully while everyone else started eating.


    "New media is actually a good channel. The inte is so developed nowadays, livestreams on tforms are doing very well."


    "But didn''t you always want to do high quality, high end? Can you ept this?"


    Lu Nianzhi spoke first. Back at the film and TV city, because of starting thepany, Rong Dai had been stubborn about it for a long time.


    But she didn''t expect Rong Dai to lower the bar so quickly.


    Livestream shopping was not something she looked down upon, it was just more suitable for selling cosmetics or daily necessities.


    There were also some for apparel, but apparel livestreams were more rushed.


    Mnxiang''s main positioning from the beginning was retro style, aiming for high fashion.


    How would that work for livestreaming?


    Rong Dai smiled and said, "I''ve said that Mnxiang won''t be limited to just making clothes. essories, makeup etc we can do in the future."


    "For now we''ve encountered obstacles in apparel, but not with essories."


    When she was at the film and TV city, after finishing shooting, besides studying, she would also browse online and follow some new media public ounts.


    Now the emphasis was on multi-dimensional development.


    Sufficient exposure, high frequency, there was no high or low ss distinction.


    The level of ss was measured by the quality of the product.


    If she was still in the mindset from her time at the film and TV city, she definitely wouldn''t have had this idea.


    But now she could ept it, because of Huo Shaoting''s guidance and tolerance.


    It didn''t matter if she went slower, she knew he would always wait for her.


    "This is actually a good choice, a different approach. First umte poprity, turn Mnxiang''s image around, and it will be much easier for apparel in the future."


    Ran Jing nodded, she hadn''t left the country again after returning, so she was very clear on the domestic situation.

 Chapter 430: Mr. Huo, Please Advise

    <h4>Chapter 430</h4>


    "Ningyue Fashion has their own heat, but although my heat is ck, it is still heat," Rong Dai said.


    "So I n to just livestream by myself. Ourpany can create our own ounts and public tforms, including Weibo and such. We need to set up ounts under the name Magnolia Fragrance," Rong Dai continued.


    "Since it is multidimensional development, if others can do it, we can do it too," Rong Dai nodded.


    She could not always be so passive and could not always just keep hoping.


    Although Shao Ting Huo was helping her at The Wing of Fashion, the chances of getting an invite were still very high.


    However, the aesthetics of the East and West were different. Although she was very confident in her own work, she did not dare to guarantee that she would be nominated and win.


    What other possibilities could she look forward to if things did not work out at The Wing of Fashion?


    "I support this. Good work should be known by more people, not limited to just a few," Ran Jing said, putting away her usual charming smile and looking serious.


    Her gaze at Rong Dai was full of expectations.


    It had been many years since she had this vivid feeling.


    Although things were good at the Huo Company, she had felt like something was missing these past few years.


    Now she saw this thing again in Rong Dai.


    "Boss Rong... May I take on this job?" Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up after reading the document.


    This job was perfect for her!


    Although she studied music, she spent years navigating various software. She knew it so well!


    She had felt inferior about itst night when she went home, thinking this was not her area of expertise.


    But now this job was just right for her!


    Rong Dai knew she had always wandered around various social media and entertainment tforms. Giving this job to the young girl was the best choice.


    "It''s possible, but you will need someone to cooperate with you. The workload is not small," Rong Dai said.


    That was also an issue.


    Magnolia Fragrance''s sry and benefits were much higher than others in the industry, but due to the suppression from Ningyue Fashion, they couldn''t recruit anyone now.


    "Boss Rong... I know a little about this stuff and should be able to help," Long Hang said hesitantly.


    Rong Dai looked at him, then nced at the others. "If everyone has no objections, then that''s what we''ll do for now."


    "Long Hang and Mei Shu, you two will be responsible for getting the tforms ready within a week. Mr. Ji, please pay more attention to the legal side of things."


    "The factory will have to trouble Ran Jing. Everything else will be handled by Nianzhi Lu. Xue Chun, you can either work from home or the office this week, but I need you to put together a set of products."


    "Does anyone have any other questions about this arrangement?" Rong Dai quickly assigned tasks after figuring out their path forward.


    She couldn''t let Magnolia Fragrance sit around waiting for Ningyue Fashion to copse or be too disdainful topete with them anymore before getting Magnolia Fragrance up and running.


    The little setback from Shi Ning had actually given her more options.


    Everyone nodded. They had not expected Rong Dai to n things out so meticulously after just a morning''s work.


    Ran Jing and Nianzhi Lu were both very capable, but had focused entirely on recruitment and events rather than thinking about this.


    After the meeting ended and they had lunch, although there were still only a few of them in the office, the atmosphere was different from the gloom of the morning.


    Looking out the window at everyone busily working in the office, Rong Dai also felt full of motivation.


    She looked at the time and decided to also send the file to Shao Ting Huo, along with the message: Mr. Huo, please provide guidance.


    Although she coulde up with these ideas, she believed Shao Ting Huo could see even further than she could.


    She was willing to ept his guidance.

 Chapter 431: Need for Classics

    <h4>Chapter 431</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting had just finished a meeting, and Zhang Assistant was still summarizing the information for him. When he received a message from Rong Dai, he signaled Zhang Assistant to pause.


    Zhang Assistant was curious, but dared not ask. Especially when she saw him staring at his phone so intently, it was much more serious than reading important documents.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t reply to her immediately, even though he was the CEO and understood the current trends. However, for Rong Dai''s n, he needed to have a clear understanding of this industry in order to give her urate guidance.


    "Have someonepile the big data from the live sales in the past two days. I need it this afternoon."


    After reading it, he replied to Rong Dai with three words: "We''ll talk tonight," and then instructed Zhang Assistant.


    Zhang Assistant was a little stunned. Live sales? Wasn''t that about the new intelligent products developed by thepany? How did it suddenly jump to live sales?


    This transition was too abrupt, wasn''t it?


    "Do you have any questions?"


    Seeing his silence, Huo Shao Ting asked.


    Zhang Assistant quickly coughed and said, "No, I''ll do it right away!"


    After receiving his message, Rong Dai''s lips curved into a faint smile. She then turned off her phone, took out the specialized paper for sketching, and continued drawing.


    Her inspiration was flowing continuously, but she knew that Mn Fragrance needed representative works. And these ssic works had toe from her hands.


    The afternoon passed quickly, and it was already time to leave work, but no one in the office had left yet.


    Although Ji Zheng was in the legal department, it was a newpany, so he had to have a thorough understanding of legal matters.


    Huo Mei Shu and Long Hang had achieved quite a bit by joining forces in the afternoon.


    Lu Nianzhi and Ran Jing were naturally her right-hand men, the pirs of thepany.


    Song Xuechun, on the other hand, was a bit upset. Although she had designed many things in school, now she was suddenly required to design individual products and even produce them for sale directly.


    This made her excited and nervous at the same time. She had drawn a lot in the afternoon, but none of them satisfied her.


    After packing up, Rong Dai came out. Although thepany was in its early stages and would be busy, the incident of losing a child had reminded her of something.


    There was nothing more important than good health.


    "Jing-jie, what do you think of this logo? Besides the text, I want to add this in. Since it''s Mn Fragrance, it should have magnolias."


    She handed the rough draft she had designed in the afternoon to Ran Jing.


    Her drawing skills were profound, and during this period, she had studied and made up for many things, so her style was unique in design.


    Ran Jing looked at the logo, and indeed, it was better than the current one.


    "Show it to everyone first and see if they think it''s good. If they do, we''ll change to this one."


    "Also, this is my design. Take a look and see if you like it. Ourpany needs representative works, something ssic and eternal."


    "This is what I came up with this afternoon. I want Mn Fragrance''s first ssic piece to bloom from my hands."


    Ran Jing understood what she meant and didn''t have any objections to her words.


    She had seen Rong Dai''s drawing skills and the drafts of those individual products she designed, so she eagerly opened it to take a look.


    When she saw the design draft in front of her, she couldn''t help but be amazed!


    "Rong Dai, what can I say? It feels like you were born for these antique objects."


    "In my opinion, all of these can be ssics!"


    Rong Dai smiled wryly, "Since they are ssics, they are unique and special. You can pick and choose first, and I will think about them some more in theing days."

 Chapter 432: Here we go Again

    <h4>Chapter 432</h4>


    Not long after Rong finished talking with Ran, Huo arrived.


    "Are you tired?"


    Seeing Rong, his first words were to ask about her, gentle and doting.


    Everyone in the office except Song knew Huo''s ruthlessness.


    But they had never seen him speak so gently before Rong appeared.


    "Ah, the bitter taste of love!"


    "Mr. Huo, you should take Mrs. Huo away, or none of us will have dinner tonight."


    Ran was capable, but also very bold with her words.


    Huo nced at the rather bleak office and knew what was going on. He put his arm around Rong''s slender waist.


    "You''ve all worked hard recently. When Magnolia Fragrance gets on the right track, bonuses, meals, trips, shopping - choose whatever you like. Just don''t let my wife worry too much."


    Rong didn''t know whether tough or cry. He was here to win over hearts!


    But she didn''t object or mind.


    If it were up to her earlier thoughts, she wouldn''t have wanted her career tied to Huo''s enterprises.


    But recent events had made it very clear - as long as she was Mrs. Huo, no matter what she did would involve Huo''s enterprises.


    Since that was the case, she needn''t be conflicted.


    What of it if they were tied together? She hoped it would be a lifelong tie.


    Led by Ran, the office whooped and teased. Rong''s cheeks burned as she red at Huo, and the couple left Magnolia.


    The couple first went to a nearby supermarket to shop before returning to Huafu Hill City to make dinner as usual.


    After the meal, Rong brewed medicinal tea and opened herptop to write down some of her ns.


    When Huo came out after cleaning up, he saw her still busy with work and couldn''t help but frown.


    He was willing to let her do things that made her happy, but that didn''t mean he was also willing to let her work so hard.


    Letting her act was one thing, but now she was so busy starting herpany, he naturally couldn''t bear to see it.


    "Tell me about what we discussed at lunch."


    Now that Magnolia was struggling to start up, he really wanted to help her, as it would be easy for him.


    But he had already done a lot, and doing more would cross her bottom line for him.


    Rong immediately perked up at this.


    She was very willing to listen to his guidance. After all, Huo had turned his enterprise around - that was no easy feat.


    She trusted his vision.


    Huo sat down beside her and casually closed her notebook, drawing her into his arms.


    "Livestreaming is very effective, but wouldn''t more publicity beforehand make it even better?"


    He looked down at her as he asked.


    "Magnolia''s style is different, steady yet rapid. Product qualityes first."


    "Sales can only be guaranteed with superb quality."


    "Fad purchases only stimte the desire to shop temporarily."


    "What Magnolia makes is quality. The price can''t be too low-"


    "One, it would be unfair to your design and effort, and two, overly low prices lead to huge losses."


    Huo spoke up. He had seen the big data that afternoon, and with his business mind could analyze many things at a nce.


    "What do you suggest then?"


    Rong nodded. He had touched on several of her concerns, so she asked his opinion.

 Chapter 433: I Care More Than You

    <h4>Chapter 433</h4>


    "For example, after the finished productes out, you can preheat it first."


    "Take a set of promotional photos. Sometimes pictures can be more intuitive. After that, go live. Won''t the poprity be different?"


    Huo Shao Ting pointed things out to her.


    Rong Dai nodded, suddenly seeing the light. She couldn''t help but look up and give his chin a light peck.


    "That''s it?"


    Huo Shao Ting was dissatisfied. His voice and eyebrows couldn''t help but rise.


    Rong Dai''s heart was scorching hot. She slightly straightened her body, actively hooking his neck and offering her lips.


    After a deep kiss, until Rong Dai''s breathing became uneven and her face was flushed red, Huo Shao Ting finally let her go.


    "Ah - Shao Ting, you can''t!"


    Her body was suddenly lifted into the air, startling Rong Dai.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her helplessly yet affectionately, "Let''s go upstairs and take a bath. I want to take one with you."


    "I said, every minute and second I spend with you, I don''t want to miss."


    "I won''t hurt your body. I care more about your health than you do."


    Rong Dai turned red with shyness in an instant, only hugging his neck tightly.


    The bathroom was filled with steam. Huo Shao Ting washed her very carefully and attentively. Every inch his fingertips grazed felt like it was on fire to Rong Dai. It was simply torture!


    After barely finishing washing up, Rong Dai feltpletely exhausted.


    Huo Shao Ting blew her hair dry with a hair dryer and brought her a cup of warm milk.


    Rong Dai felt warm inside. She slowly sipped the milk. Just then, her phone rang again.


    The caller ID showed it was her uncle, Huo ShaoJie.


    She hadn''t seen her uncle for several days. She immediately answered the call.


    "ShaoJie."


    "Sister-inw, I''m not disturbing you and my brother resting, am I?" Huo ShaoJie asked.


    Hearing they weren''t resting yet, Huo ShaoJie on the phone let out a sigh of relief. Then he continued, "Here''s the thing. The release date for Empress has been confirmed - this summer''s holiday slot in June."


    "Starting in April, we''ll need to start promotions early. Sister-inw, you''re the main lead, so we''ll need you to help with promotions."


    "Just attend a few press conferences, nothing too troublesome."


    "I know you''re having issues starting yourpany right now. If you really can''t make time, you can record a video. I''ll send you the script."


    If he hadn''t brought it up, she would''ve almost forgotten that she filmed a movie a few months ago.


    "No problem. Let me know the timing. I''ll have Nian Zhi make time for me. Thepany stuff isn''t urgent, don''t worry."


    She had put a lot of effort into Empress. Of course she would attend the promotions.


    Otherwise, just sending a video, she''d probably get med online again, and it would affect the movie too. That would be her fault.


    "Okay, I''ll contact Nian Zhi then."


    Hearing her response, Huo ShaoJie rxed.


    After hanging up, Rong Dai reported the matter to Huo Shao Ting. Thepany stuff was developing smoothly. Her worrying wouldn''t help.


    Thinking of her uncle''s situation, she couldn''t help being a little gossipy, "Shao Ting, has ShaoJie never liked any girls all these years?"


    Even her aunt had her fiance, and her uncle wasn''t bad either. He was a Best Actor winner. Although he had moved behind the scenes, with his identity as the Huo Group''s second son...


    There must have been many girls who liked him.


    But her uncle had never mentioned his personal affairs.


    Also, everyone was busy with work and family matters. Now mother-inw Lu Zheng was in Hainan.


    Her uncle needed someone to look after him.

 Chapter 434: My Legs Are Weak

    <h4>Chapter 434</h4>


    "Are you wanting to use the title of sister-inw so soon?"


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her in his arms, gently pinching her chin with one hand, his voice slightly rising with a hint of teasing.


    Rong Dai pretended to be angry and nced at him, raising her hand to gently pat away his hand.


    "Of course not!"


    She paused for a moment and looked at Huo Shao Ting earnestly: "If Xiao Jie could get married sooner, Grandma wouldn''t keep pestering us."


    "Although I have been following doctor''s orders to recuperate, a child is a blessing from heaven, and won''te if the affinity isn''t there yet."


    Thinking of the child she had lost, her heart still ached dully.


    And Grandma was already old, elderly people could face death at any time.


    She didn''t want Grandma to leave with regrets.


    Huo Shao Ting held her even tighter, with his chin against her forehead, smelling her hair: "Don''t worry about these things, don''t put pressure on yourself."


    Rong Dai nodded, nestlingfortably in his arms.


    She slept dreamlessly through the night until daybreak. Rong Daizily sprawled in Huo Shao Ting''s arms, quietly watching his sleeping face.


    Even asleep, this man was just as charming, she couldn''t take her eyes off him.


    She couldn''t resist reaching out with her finger, lightly tracing down his nose bridge.


    As her fingertip brushed over his thin lips, Huo Shao Ting suddenly opened his mouth and sucked her finger in.


    Rong Dai''s heart leapt, her cheeks flushing instantly, her beautiful eyes panicked and a little shy.


    The strange sensation transmitted through her fingertip made her blood flow in reverse, boiling through her body!


    "Shao...Shao Ting..."


    She pleaded softly.


    Huo Shao Ting opened his eyes, but still didn''t release her finger, even intentionally increasing the force.


    "You..."


    Rong Dai was embarrassed and annoyed, Huo Shao Ting''s big palm was already covering her slender waist, lightly pulling her to liepletely on top of him.


    "Being so naughty, and only now knowing to be afraid?"


    His voice was tinged with hints of roguishness, his eyes brimming with traces ofughter.


    Rong Dai''s finger was finally freed, she immediately retracted it and clutched it tightly.


    But that damned feeling was like a brand seared into her soul, she couldn''t get rid of it no matter what!


    Her face was as red as blood, her eyes ncing resentfully at him: "I''m getting up!"


    As she spoke, she wanted to get off of him, but Huo Shao Ting stubbornly kept her pinned against him.


    His body temperature was scorching, even though it was March of spring, the nights were still cold, but the couple only had a thin quilt covering them, and Rong Dai had felt unbearably hot all night.


    Rong Dai red at him indignantly, her cheeks burning feverishly!


    Especially upon feeling that certain scorching part of him, she couldn''t help but tremble all over, her gaze instantly softening: "Shao Ting..."


    Her soft, tender "Shao Ting" melted Huo Shao Ting''s heart.


    "Mm."


    He made a low sound of acknowledgment, but his hands still refused to leave her slender waist.


    He was always reluctant to part from her for every second they were together.


    He sat up, hugging her in his arms, gazing down at her.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks grew even redder, the fair and slender swan''s neck also flushing pink, looking especially alluring.


    This position...was really too embarrassing!


    Rong Dai only wanted to cover her face, why did she have to provoke him so early in the morning?


    "Be good...get up now."


    Huo Shao Ting finally deigned to loosen his hold, one hand grasping the back of her head, lowering his head to kiss her lips, his voice gentle and indulgent.


    Rong Dai felt her entire body going limp in his embrace, she waspletely powerless against his gentleness and indulgence.


    "My legs are soft..."


    Her cheeks were ming, and she spoke in a soft,ining tone tinged with chagrin, sounding like she was coquetting.

 Chapter 435: Your Beauty, Undefinable.

    <h4>Chapter 435</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart was as soft as mud, he kissed her forehead, picked her up and went straight into the bathroom to wash up.


    Throughout the entire washing process, Rong Dai felt like she was in hot water.


    Breakfast was made by Huo Shao Ting, she was responsible for eating.


    After breakfast, the couple got in the car.


    "Mrs. Huo, if you continue to be absent-minded, I feel I need to stay home today to apany you well."


    Seeing that she was still a little distracted, Huo Shao Ting''s desire for her grew stronger, and the softness in his heart grew.


    Reaching out to fasten her seat belt, he couldn''t help but gently pinch her chin, forcing Rong Dai to look at him.


    Rong Dai didn''t know what was going on this morning, her heart never beat normally. As soon as she came into contact with Huo Shao Ting, she felt electrified, her whole body tingling and hot.


    "I''m not, it''s you..."


    She couldn''t help but mumble softly.


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly, lowered his head and gently bit her lips, before letting go and concentrating on driving.


    When they arrived at Mudan Xiang, Rong Dai got out of the car quickly!


    Looking at her panicked retreating figure, Huo Shao Ting sighed softly and helplessly, before driving to thepany.


    After Rong Dai entered Mudan Xiang, she hid behind the door, pped her cheeks, took a few deep breaths before calming down again, and her brain which had been mushy all morning finally came online.


    After she entered thepany, she found that everyone had already arrived.


    Everyone was busy, although there were still only a few people in the office, Rong Dai was convinced that their team could operate Mudan Xiang well.


    "Boss Rong, we have already set up the tform ounts."


    As soon as she came in, Huo Mei Shu immediately came over to her with a tablet and printed documents for her to review.


    Rong Dai pulled over a nearby chair and sat down to listen carefully to Huo Mei Shu''s analysis.


    "We have created Weibo, M Music and Tao Network ounts for now. After Sister Ran finishes modifying the logo, I will update it immediately."


    "This is thepany introduction I wrote for us, take a look."


    "In addition, we can create our official gship store on Tao Network. Long Hang and I will register first, then we can put our products up when they are ready."


    These were things that Huo Mei Shu could do well, so she was particrly diligent.


    It is said that work can make people temporarily forget their sadness, and this is Huo Mei Shu''s current state.


    Rong Dai looked at the content she had prepared carefully, with approval in her eyes: "You did a great job Mei Shu!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s eyes lit up at once: "Really, sister-inw?"


    Rong Dai nodded, her eyes falling on the introduction.


    "Sister-inw, is there anything wrong with this introduction?"


    Seeing her gaze pause on the introduction, Huo Mei Shu''s smile disappeared instantly.


    "There are no major issues, but if you were a customer, would you spend so much time reading the seller''s introduction?"


    Rong Dai asked her, then took the pen and wrote a sentence on the printed introduction: Your beauty cannot be defined.


    "Just this one sentence will do, too muchplexity will only make people criticize it."


    Huo Mei Shu nodded, she didn''t actually mind.


    This was her first time dealing with things rted to this, previously she had only dealt with things rted to music.


    And she genuinely admired Rong Dai, so she trusted Rong Dai''s words very much.


    Aftermunicating with Huo Mei Shu, Rong Dai went into the office. Most of thepany''s affairs were being handled by Ran Jing and Lu Nianzhi, she only needed to grasp the big picture.


    She spent the whole morning drawing sketches, she was overflowing with ideas now.


    With her memories from her previous life and aesthetics, plus having been in contact with this era for a while, her ideas were more exquisite and unique.


    Therefore, the sketches she produced were all done in one go. Just looking at the outlines, one could already feel the charm of the finished product.

 Chapter 436: God give us Food.

    <h4>Chapter 436</h4>


    "President Rong, no, I feel I should still call you Little Dai! That''s more intimate!"


    "What other surprises can you give me? It''s only been three days and you''ve alreadye up with so many single items. You have a god-given talent for this!"


    After finishing the coordination with the factory, Ran Jing was summarizing materials when Rong Dai handed over the sketches she hadpleted that morning.


    She looked at the sketches Rong Dai handed over and was stunned at first. Then she quickly nced over the sketches several times.


    Then she looked up at her with an expression like she was looking at a genius monster!


    Rong Dai smiled lightly without responding. Who made her have a brain that could cheat?


    "Sister Jing, I want tounch another series of hundred flowers, peony, peony, lotus, chrysanthemum, peach blossom, azalea, rose. This is what I have designed so far."


    "I''ll think more about the styles of bracelets, nes, earrings, armlets. We don''t have any ssics now, so let the public evaluate them."


    She pointed at the draft and said.


    ssic styles are evaluated by the public, not decided by them.


    Ran Jing held a thick stack of drafts in her hand, on which there was almost no trace of eraser. It waspletely done in one go.


    Each one has its own beauty. The flowers have different charm and are vivid.


    "You''re the boss. We''ll do whatever you say!"


    As a designer herself, Ran Jing''s vision was naturally sharp.


    Although she hade into contact with some jewelry designs before, clothing and jewelry were two different courses when examined closely.


    She had seen Rong Dai''s works. The set of works that participated in the TK event was still in thepany''s embroidery room.


    She thought Rong Dai was already a genius in clothing design, but she didn''t expect her to be so talented in jewelry design as well.


    No wonder she was able to capture the emperor of Jingjing!


    "I''ll have to trouble you, Sister Jing. I hope to see the finished products soon."


    "There''s still some time before the fashion show of Ningyue Fashion. Let''s strive to do the publicity during this time."


    She said softly. Ran Jing made an OK gesture, immediately getting to work with the drafts in hand.


    "Xuechun, how''s your drawing going?"


    Rong Dai went to Song Xuechun''s side and saw her eyebrows furrowed.


    Song Xuechun was extremely distressed and frustrated: "Dai''er... President Rong."


    "It''s just an address. Call me whatever feels natural," Rong Dai sat next to her and looked at the many crumpled papers in her trash can.


    She picked them up and unfolded them to look closely: "These drawings are pretty good. Why didn''t you want them?"


    Song Xuechun shook her head: "This style is too ordinary, and a series of simr products have beenunched by Jinxiufang before."


    "I''m really poisoned by Jinxiufang. I used to have so many ideas in my head, but now I can''t draw anything at all!"


    Song Xuechun said with chagrin as she pulled her hair.


    Seeing her like this, Rong Dai was a little amused. She was too anxious.


    "Don''t be impatient or feel pressured. Take your time to draw, you''lle up with something satisfactory eventually," Rong Dai said.


    Song Xuechun nodded. She also knew she was too stressed and anxious, which was causing her distress.


    After reassuring Song Xuechun, she went to Lu Nianzhi''s work station.


    Like Ran Jing, Lu Nianzhi was currently doing the most important work in thepany, so the two''s desks were separated from the others, already piled with a lot of copy.


    "Sister Nianzhi," she called out. Lu Nianzhi looked up to see her and quickly pulled over a chair for her.

 Chapter 437: Work Arrangement

    <h4>Chapter 437</h4>


    Rong Dai sat down.


    Now the situation in thepany was that Lu Nianzhi was in charge of her personal work arrangements andpany promotion and sales, as well as all kinds of misceneous matters.


    Ran Jing was responsible for the products and taking care of the trivial matters of connecting with the factories.


    Legal issues were being followed up by Ji Zheng. Overall, although they were understaffed, thepany could still operate slowly.


    "Ji Mo called me yesterday."


    Lu Nianzhi was still her assistant, so her work had to be coordinated with Lu Nianzhi.


    "He called mest night. I''ll let you know once the schedule is arranged."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, then handed her a document.


    "I made a project proposal ording to your thoughts yesterday. Take a look."


    "For the models, we can coborate with professional models from the Huo Family, since you chose this type of sales approach. I did some research on it after I went homest night."


    Lu Nianzhi''s state today seemed to have returned to that hardcore assistant status. She flipped open the project proposal for her while pointing things out and analyzing as she spoke.


    "The live streaming industry is very hot right now. Celebrity and live streamer coborations have strong selling power."


    "Because of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and Ningyue Fashion, our Magnolia Fragrance is being suppressed right now."


    "It''s also possible that product sales won''t be great, but umting poprity takes time. If we''re talking money, I don''t think Ningyue Fashion can outspend Madam Huo."


    Rong Daiughed helplessly, but she also knew that what Lu Nianzhi said was the truth.


    "So my suggestion is that we cultivate our own live streamers, or sign some famous live streamers."


    "I looked at thepany - there''s another siheyuan in the middle that''s very cheap to rent because it doesn''t have good flow. We could open it up and connect itter."


    "What do you think?"


    Lu Nianzhi asked her.


    As Rong Dai listened, she earnestly looked over the project proposal and pondered for a minute or two before speaking. "Let''s not sign people. We''ll cultivate our own."


    "Since we''re at the difficult startup stage right now, we might as well suffer together withrades who came out with us."


    "Although I can''t guarantee everyone''s future stays and departures, as long as they''re currently progressing together with Magnolia Fragrance, Rong Dai will not shortchange them."


    Rather than signing other live streamers, she''d also have to worry about being sabotaged by Ningyue Fashion. It''d be better to cultivate her own than to invite an eminent monk to wait upon her.


    "That works too. I''ll keep an eye out on this end."


    Lu Nianzhi understood her thinking and nodded, while taking down her requirements.


    "Sister Nianzhi, also, once Sister Jing''s products are ready, I want to shoot a set of product photos myself."


    "Coordinate with Mei Shu and Long Hang''s side. Let''s put up the photos first for publicity, then start livestreaming."


    "That''s great! It gives the audience sufficient time to consider and deliberate. Fast sales quickly attract money, but Magnolia Fragrance doesn''t need fast sales."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, the smile on her face showing absolute trust in Rong Dai.


    "Then Sister Nianzhi, summarize it and we''ll discuss it at the afternoon meeting before confirming."


    "In April, I have to do publicity for the princess. Time will be tight, not much time left this month. Let''s finalize these matters within this month as much as possible."


    "In April, we''ll shoot and publicize so we''re not too rushed."


    "For recruitment, you and Sister Jing can decide. Thepany prioritizes quality over quantity in people. I''m worried Ningyue''s side might sabotage us."


    Rong Dai nodded, then instructed her before returning to her office to continue drawing design drafts.

 Chapter 438: Trying to deceive Others

    <h4>Chapter 438</h4>


    Magnolia Fragrance''s work proceeded in an orderly fashion, and everything in thepany was slowly getting on track.


    Because of the previous video and audio incident that pushed Rong Dai into the limelight, Ningyue Fashion took the opportunity to catch the public''s eye.


    With Brocade Embroidery Workshop, the "big boss" backing it, Ningyue Fashion had got off to a flying start since its establishment and was very sessful.


    Shi Ning was very popr. Ningyue Fashion released a set of publicity photos at the end of March, entering the hot search again and arousing great public expectation.


    In contrast, Magnolia Fragrance was low-key, Rong Dai did not exin anything, and went to work as usual every day.


    The entertainment reporters who had been squatting at the door of Magnolia Fragrance''spany did not take any pictures. All they took were pictures of Huo Shao Ting picking her up from work.


    After a long time, these people could not get any news and naturally left.


    "Rong Dai, this is today''s shooting task in the afternoon. I have confirmed the products. Do you want to take another look?" Lu Nianzhi handed her the schedule and asked.


    Rong Dai was wearing a small suit, which was efficient but also revealed the charm of a little woman, very elegant.


    March was simply chaotic for her, and now everything was on track. Moreover, there was the big BOSS at home to guide her at night.


    She was a quick learner. Huo Shao Ting could exin many things to her in just a few words.


    After taking a look at the schedule, she nodded, "No problem. I suggest preparing a backup set of products, just in case the ones on site get lost or damaged and cannot be shot."


    She reminded Lu Nianzhi.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve got everything ready." Lu Nianzhi nodded, then turned off her tablet and sat down.


    "When do you n to deal with Ningyue Fashion?"


    "We''ve been so low-key for almost half a month, yet those dogs are still hyping you up online!"


    Lu Nianzhi was in charge of all external affairs of thepany. Naturally, she was very clear about things on the Inte.


    Rong Dai crossed her arms, rested her chin on them, and a faint smile appeared on her charming face. Her tone was slightly mocking, "What''s wrong? Is our Lu personal assistant getting impatient already?"


    Lu Nianzhi snorted, "I just can''t stand seeing her gloating!"


    "If your work was released, you could beat her by miles!"


    "If it wasn''t for her being from Brocade Embroidery Workshop and Shi Yue''s granddaughter, if thrown onto the street, she would at most be a girl with some looks, who would remember her?"


    Thinking of what Shi Ning had done, she felt disgusted and annoyed.


    "Sister Nianzhi!"


    The two were talking in the office when Huo Mei Shu suddenly ran in holding a tablet, looking apprehensive.


    "What''s up? Mei Shu, when will you be able to change your habit of keeping people in suspense?" Lu Nianzhi looked up at her. They were all familiar with each other and knew each other''s temperaments and ways of speaking.


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her with struggling eyes, then looked at Rong Dai, and ced the tablet on the table for them both to see.


    "Sister Nianzhi, don''t get angry first."


    "Ningyue Fashion has hired... supermodel Ling Yan as their spokesperson."


    Huo Mei Shu said apprehensively.


    The incident between Ling Yan and Xu Chuan was always a thorn in Lu Nianzhi''s heart.


    Although not everyone knew about it, the circle in Shengjing was not big or small.


    Lu Nianzhi was around the same age as the young generation who now controlled the family businesses in Shengjing. Back then, this was not a secret in Shengjing.


    Many people in the circle knew about it. Even if one didn''t know, they could find out by inquiring carefully.


    And now Shi Ning had actually hired Ling Yan to be Ningyue Fashion''s spokesperson. Wasn''t this deliberately provoking people?

 Chapter 439: The More I Love, the more I Hate.

    <h4>Chapter 439</h4>


    As soon as Mei Shu finished speaking, Rong Dai saw Lu Nianzhi''s face instantly turn fierce and sinister!


    "Nianzhi sister."


    She realized it was bad and quickly signaled for Huo Mei Shu to take the tablet out.


    Huo Mei Shu was also afraid of Lu Nianzhi''s fiery temper. After all, she had seen Lu Nianzhi''s fierce fits on the first day at thepany, and still had a trauma over it.


    She just wanted to give Nianzhi sister a reminder, so as to avoid an out-of-control confrontation that would be embarrassing, especially for Nianzhi sister, when they meet.


    She didn''t want the people around her to be humiliated like this, which was why she wanted to give Nianzhi sister a heads up.


    After leaving the office, she couldn''t help poking her head back in to take a look.


    Rong Dai knew she was worried, and gave her a reassuring look. Only then did Huo Mei Shu anxiously return to her work station.


    Of course Ran Jing also knew about this matter.


    Ling Yan.


    Relying solely on her good looks and natural model figure, after five years of struggling abroad, this woman had already be a famous top supermodel.


    No one expected her to return at this time and sign a contract with Ningyue Fashion to be their spokesperson.


    "Young Ji, aren''t you going to do something about that spoiled daughter of yours?"


    "Our little Rong has already given her a lot of face. Her tolerance is impressive."


    "Young people tend to be hot-blooded. But if she keeps up this aggressive harassment, even if little Rong lets it slide, what about Chairman Huo?"


    "If you don''t consider her future prospects, you should at least care about Teacher Shi Yue''s health."


    Holding the tablet, Ran Jing walked to Ji Zheng''s desk and stood with arms crossed. Although alluringly beautiful, her eyes were piercing.


    Whenever there was a chance to make things difficult for Ningyue Fashion, they would seize it. And yet that group of fans still showered them with praise online!


    They werepletely unable to distinguish right from wrong!


    Nothing but troublemakers!


    Ji Zheng frowned at the content on the tablet, then pushed it aside. "I have no rtionship with her."


    "Whether it''s Chairman Rong or Chairman Huo who wants to deal with Ningyue, I don''t care.


    "If she gets hereuppance, I''d be happy to see it."


    Ran Jing was a little shocked. Although there were rumors that the siblings did not get along, after all they were siblings by blood. No matter how bad it was, he shouldn''t wish to see his sister meet a tragic end.


    What on earth had Ning done to incur such great resentment?


    "Jing sister, if there''s nothing else, I''ll get back to work."


    Ji Zheng''s expression was slightly cold,cking his usual wit and charm.


    Ran Jing knew how to read subtle cues. She didn''t continue the conversation.


    "This afternoon we are going with little Rong to Huo''s Photography Studio to shoot promotional photos for the products. There are also two other sets of works that need contract signing, so you''ll need toe along with us."


    Ji Zheng grunted in acknowledgement and continued with his work.


    In the office, the fierceness and anger on Lu Nianzhi''s face turned into calm.


    "It''s been five years. This ridiculous drama should have properly ended five years ago."


    "After dragging on for five years, now everyone is together again. It''s just the right time to resolve this."


    Without waiting for Rong Dai to speak, Lu Nianzhi took the initiative to say this herself.


    Many people say that time is the best medicine to heal all wounds, but for her that wasn''t the case. The longer the time, the heavier her grudges became.


    Just seeing Xu Chuan again when he returned this time was enough to destabilize her emotions.


    She didn''t know if this matter would someday drive her insane!


    The deeper the love, the greater the hatred!


    Only those who have suffered betrayal can profoundly understand the agony within!


    Rong Dai also didn''t know how tofort her. She understood Lu Nianzhi''s feelings.


    "Nianzhi sister, do you want to take a couple days off to adjust?"


    Lu Nianzhi looked at her with a sudden brilliant smile. "Didn''t you say I was a hardcore assistant? Something like this can''t knock me down."

 Chapter 440: Back with the Lingyan

    <h4>Chapter 440</h4>


    When Rong Dai saw how determined she was, she didn''t say anything more. After confirming the time to go to Huo''s Photography Studio in the afternoon and sorting out some details, Lu Nianzhi left.


    Rong Dai sat in her office thinking for a while, then took out her phone and browsed the news on Ning Yue Fashion.


    Ling Yan was an international supermodel who hadn''t been famous for very long, only about a year. So not many people in China knew about her.


    However, in order to increase poprity andpete for attention for the fashion show, Ning Yue Fashion publicized Ling Yan''s career very eagerly.


    In a short time, both Ling Yan and Ning Yue Fashion received double exposure.


    Looking at the Ling Yan on the screen, she was indeed extremely beautiful and charming. No wonder little Xu Heng, although his eyes and brows resembled Xu Chuan, his face actually looked more like Ling Yan.


    She nced out the window at Lu Nianzhi who had returned to her desk and continued working. Although she had said earlier that this kind of thing wouldn''t get her down.


    But Rong Dai could see that she had still been affected.


    Even if it had happened to her instead, she probably wouldn''t have been able to take it lightly either.


    She thought for a few seconds, then sent a text message to Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting, who was working, received her message. His mood had been pretty good originally, but when he saw she was asking about Xu Chuan and Ling Yan''s matters, his expression immediately changed.


    He didn''t reply, but instead instructed his assistant Zhang: "Go tell Xu Chuan that research is suspended until family matters have been dealt with at home."


    Zhang was stunned for a moment. What was the Chairman trying to stir up?


    "Go tell him Ling Yan is back."


    Seeing that he hadn''t moved, Huo Shao Ting felt it was also inappropriate to just suspend cooperation. So he added that sentence.


    Zhang nodded and then went to the researchb to inform Xu Chuan.


    Upon hearing this, Xu Chuan''s brows immediately furrowed. He went to the cab to take out his phone and as expected, saw Ling Yan''s smiling face.


    His eyes instantly turned sinister. He quickly closed the webpage and immediately called Lu Nianzhi.


    Last time under Rong Dai''s matchmaking, the two of them had talked for a very long time.


    Although this knot in the heart couldn''t be untied for the moment, at least Nianzhi had allowed him to call her now.


    Except the number of calls was limited, to twice a month.


    Sitting in her office, Lu Nianzhi would have been restless. Ling Yan was back, and they had such a big son between them. Not to mention Xu Chuan used to have feelings for Ling Yan.


    Wasn''t it very normal for these old feelings to reignite?


    Xu Chuan had only exined to her what happened that night. He hadn''t exined anything else, and she didn''t feel right to ask more.


    The knot in her heart still couldn''te undone.


    Xu Chuan only felt that he had wronged her and felt guilty toward her.


    After being separated for five years, there was nothing left between them.


    While between Xu Chuan and Ling Yan, there was still a child.


    Lu Nianzhi felt grieved and pained in her heart, like a knife twisting!


    While she was lost in thought, she saw Xu Chuan''s iing call.


    She froze for a moment. The ringtone kept ringing, already affecting the other colleagues in the office.


    "Sister Nianzhi? Do you want to answer the call first?"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at her worriedly and gently reminded.


    "Sorry, I''ll take this outside."


    Only then did Lu Nianzhie to her senses. She grabbed her phone and immediately went out of the office to the yard to answer the call.


    "Nian Nian...how are you?"


    On the other end of the phone, Xu Chuan also didn''t know what to say. He hesitated a bit before uttering this sentence.


    What had happened five years ago was a scar in Nianzhi''s heart. She was unwilling to touch it, and so was he.


    It seemed that every time it was touched, it made the distance between him and Nian Nian grow even more distant.


    He had lost her for five years. This time...he really didn''t want to endure such excruciating pain again.

 Chapter 441: Never Been Together

    <h4>Chapter 441</h4>


    When Lu Nianzhi heard his voice, the pain in her heart eased slightly.


    But her mouth was still merciless. The resentment from five years ago and the various images rooted deeply in her mind erupted once again!


    "Xu Chuan, what do you want from me?"


    "Do you want me to have a catfight with your woman? Or get into a brawl?"


    "You think too highly of yourself."


    "I made it very clearst time that I don''t need your pity or guilt. Just disappear from my life."


    "Wouldn''t it be better if we both just lived our own lives in peace? Whether you want to get back together with Ling Yan, or your old feelings rekindle, it has nothing to do with me."


    "Because my life has nothing to do with you either. I have no interest, time or energy to watch you two unt your affection in front of me."


    "Aren''t you looking for a mother for your son? His biological mother is here now, isn''t that perfect?"


    Her words were harsh and excessive.


    She felt gratified inside, but also hurt, a piercing hurt!


    It hurt so much that she almost shed tears!


    She was very clear that she was worried and afraid Xu Chuan would really get back together with Ling Yan.


    She was a coward!


    After five years, she still couldn''t forget this damned man!


    "If you called to give me this good news, then you''ve already told me. Do you need me to order flowers or send a congrattory card for you? Should I chip in some money as well?"


    On the other end of the phone, Xu Chuan was also stabbed in the heart by every word she said.


    But he understood her personality.


    If enduring this pain would make her feel better, he was willing to bear it.


    "Cat got your tongue?"


    When there was no reply from Xu Chuan on the phone, Lu Nianzhi felt like her previous words were like throwing cotton, soft and ridiculous!


    "Nianzhi, I just want to tell you that I won''t be with Ling Yan."


    "My admiration for her when we were studying was just appreciation. You were the first woman I loved, and the wife I want to spend the rest of my life with."


    "What happened five years ago was my fault. I shouldn''t have agreed to that dinner."


    "I have never been with Ling Yan, there is no question of getting back together or rekindling old feelings."


    "Nianzhi, I know you''re in pain, but I hope that once you''re done hurting, don''t keep it bottled up inside. You can hit me, scold me, my phone will stay on."


    Xu Chuan hesitated for a good few seconds before finally uttering these words.


    If he had to name his biggest regrets in life, first would be not giving her an exnation five years ago in time, second would be his admiration for Ling Yan when he was young, and third would be agreeing to Ling Yan''s dinner invitation.


    But life does not go backwards. Mistakes have been made, all he could do was try his best to make amends.


    "Hmph..."


    After hearing what he said, Lu Nianzhi''s heart shuddered violently, and the pain in her heart didn''t seem to hurt as much anymore.


    But she still didn''t want to let him off easy.


    He might feel relieved, but that one moment of relief for him caused five long years of pain for her!


    Things might have been talked through and exnations given.


    But the healed wounds were still there.


    Perhaps if Ling Yan did not show up, over time, she might have slowly let it go.


    But Ling Yan just had to appear at this moment!


    The wound she just healed was stabbed and torn again!


    How could she not overthink?


    "Xu Chuan, after so many years you really haven''t changed one bit, even your way of cating people is exactly the same."


    "Don''t use the same old tricks you used on Ling Yan on me."


    "Don''t call me anymore in the future! What you do has nothing to do with me!" Lu Nianzhi said coldly before hanging up.


    Standing alone with her hands on her hips in the yard, she gazed at the vines on the wall as tears flowed freely down her cheeks.


    She felt so pathetic and cowardly! What was there to not let go from a worthless man?


    Lu Nianzhi scorned and was angry with herself, wishing she could p herself to wake up and be sensible!

 Chapter 442: Why Can鈥檛 We Forget Him

    <h4>Chapter 442</h4>


    "Do you really have to do this?"


    Rong Dai walked out and looked at her, pulling out a tissue to hand to her.


    It wasn''t that she was deliberately eavesdropping, but the courtyard was so small, when Lu Nianzhi got agitated and angry, her voice was loud, it was hard not to hear.


    Lu Nianzhi''s eyes were red as she looked up at the sky, dabbing away her tears: "Am I really that much of a coward?"


    "Or you can say I''m a hardcore assistant who can''t even handle my own personal feelings."


    Her tone was full of self-mockery.


    Rong Dai looked at her and nced at the time on her watch: "It''s still early, shall we go to the cafe across the way?"


    Lu Nianzhi didn''t want to disturb her colleagues either in the office in her current emotional state, so she nodded, and the two of them went to the cafe and sat down.


    Rong Dai wasn''t actually here to drink coffee.


    Lu Nianzhi was her right hand man. If she couldn''t work properly, there were many things in thepany that she wouldn''t be able to cope with.


    Although she had Shaoting, he also had to deal with all kinds of big and small matters of the Huo Group everyday.


    Since the Wen family matterst time, the Huo second master''s family had not made any moves, but that was even more worrying.


    So to get Lu Nianzhi to work with peace of mind, regarding her and Mr. Xu''s matter, she would help if she could.


    "You still love Mr. Xu, don''t you?"


    Rong Dai put her phone aside, looked up at her and gently asked.


    Lu Nianzhi was stunned for a moment, her unfocused gaze looking out the window at the scenery, stirring her coffee with her hand.


    Probably seven or eight secondster, she heavily replied: "Yes, I still love him."


    "It''s been five years, and I still can''t forget him."


    "He was the first man I loved. We used to have so many beautiful dreams about the future."


    "I hate him!"


    "I hate that he stabbed me so deeply, I hate that he shattered all those dreams into smithereens!"


    "I also hate myself, why can''t I just forget him?"


    Lu Nianzhi''s eyes were empty as she looked at Rong Dai. Whenever this matter was brought up, she would lose control of her emotions.


    "But... I don''t have the courage to start over with him again, yet I also don''t have the courage to end it."


    "I..."


    Lu Nianzhi was in extreme agony. This torment felt just as painful as five years ago.


    "I really... hate feeling so tormented and unable to forget someone. This feeling is worse than death!"


    "Why does he have to show up again and disrupt my life? Why can''t he just let me go..."


    Lu Nianzhi was in utter anguish.


    Scenes from five years ago shed through her mind, frame by frame, like a movie rey.


    Seeing her unleash her emotions, Rong Dai felt heartache but also relieved.


    Being able to vent was better than keeping it bottled up inside.


    She just hadn''t expected that Lu Nianzhi had actually been on antidepressants for three years. Although she didn''t know much about this illness in her past life, there were always news articles being pushed about it.


    She had read one or two herself, and knew well the horror of depression.


    No one could imagine how Lu Nianzhi had struggled through those three years, as if living a fate worse than death. So now when facing this matter again, she would still have such massive emotional turmoil.


    The more adamant and beautiful something was, the more unbearable it was when it shattered.

 Chapter 443: Publicity Photo Shoot

    <h4>Chapter 443</h4>


    After listening to Lu Nianzhi''s words, Rong Dai suddenly realized this was a dead end.


    Lu Nianzhi couldn''t let go, nor could she pick it up.


    She had locked herself in the events that happened five years ago and couldn''t get out.


    Although she really wanted to help Lu Nianzhi, she wasn''t a man. For matters of the heart like this, if guidance and counseling were so effective, then so many things wouldn''t have happened.


    After Lu Nianzhi finished speaking, she couldn''t help but start crying.


    Rong Dai sat quietly across from her and passed her some napkins.


    After Lu Nianzhi finished crying, she gave Lu Nianzhi half a day off. The rest of the work would be handled by Ran Jing, and it would be the same.


    Lu Nianzhi didn''t decline either. She understood that with her current state, going to work would be very unstable.


    Especially since Magnolia Fragrance was just starting out, there was no room for mistakes.


    When Rong Dai returned to thepany, seeing that it was about time, Ran Jing was not surprised that Lu Nianzhi had taken time off.


    At one o''clock, besides Song Xuechun, Huo Mei Shu, and Long Hangzhi, everyone else had gone to Huo''s photography studio.


    Huo''s had professional makeup artists. They all knew Rong Dai was their boss''s wife, so no one dared to be negligent.


    Moreover, the atmosphere at Huo''s Enterprise was very good. Rong Dai hadmunicated her thoughts to the photographer beforehand.


    Although they were shooting these individual pieces, she required that the clothing she wore also have a presence, preferably with her clothing as the predominant background.


    The photographer was a professional. After understanding Rong Dai''s thoughts, he took out some of his previous works for her to see.


    "Hmm, it''s probably like this."


    Rong Dai nodded. Under Ran Jing''s urging, she finally went to change clothes and get makeup and all the other preparations done.


    "Boss, your wife has gone to the studio to shoot publicity photos. Do you want to go see?"


    Upon getting this news, Zhang Assistant immediately came over excitedly. Most importantly, he also wanted to see his own wife.


    Huo Shao Ting gave an "mm" and suddenly felt that the afternoon would not be so agonizing.


    Huo''s Skyscraper had three buildings total. Entertainment was all in another building, but the three buildings were interconnected, so it was very convenient to go over.


    When he arrived at the studio, Rong Dai had just changed into the clothes she had personally designed. Her face was elegantly made up.


    She had a goodplexion and her bone structure was naturally hanger-like. Her own temperament was dignified and elegant.


    Especially after she came out in this heavy ancient-style outfit, everyone in the studio went wide-eyed.


    Seeing her like this, the light shed in Huo Shao Ting''s deep eyes, and the corners of his mouth curved up slightly as he sat down quietly in the corner to watch.


    Zhang Assistant didn''t dare open his mouth. He could only longingly stare at Ran Jing''s back.


    Rong Dai had experience shooting dramas, and her sense with the camera was very strong.


    Her hands, arms, neck, earlobes, silhouette and fullness were all perfect.


    These rings, bracelets, earrings and other essories were all exquisite, produced in Huo''s factory, so the quality was guaranteed.


    Rong Dai was very natural now when facing the camera, so the shoot went very smoothly.


    There were a total of three sets of photos, three different outfits, three sets of essories. The raw images from the camera were already very beautiful. After a little post-processing, they would absolutely be eye-catching!


    Rong Dai had the perfect grasp, not stealing the unique beauty that belonged to the essories, but using her own temperament to enhance the essories and make them even more beautiful.


    "Drink some to wet your throat first."


    Huo Shao Ting came over with an insted cup, inside was her favorite rose tea.


    "Shao Ting? What are you doing here?"


    Rong Dai was still wearing the outfit from thest shoot. That water-blue long skirt. As she walked, the skirt was like she was stepping on a little creek.


    Seeing this, the people in the studio were very tactful and hid away.


    Otherwise they''d be doused in a whole sour and sweet tsunami!

 Chapter 444: You Shout Again

    <h4>Chapter 444</h4>


    "Come see you."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly. Although he had long known that her beauty made him lose control, every time he was still amazed.


    He was still involuntarily moved.


    Her beauty was inside and out.


    "You''re so beautiful."


    He couldn''t help reaching out to hold her slender waist. His voice was gentle and indulgent, his deep eyes full of soft colors, all her shadows.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed slightly, and the blush made her even more intoxicating.


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t speak again. After she finished drinking the water, he handed the ss to Zhang, his assistant, who automatically hid himself in transparency.


    "Go remind the photography department to prioritize the publicity photos for Mn Xiang."


    He lightly ordered.


    Zhang was eager to leave the studio with the ss.


    It was so hard to keep looking at his wife but unable to touch her!


    After Zhang left, Huo Shao Ting picked her up horizontally, "Does your foot hurt?"


    She had always worn t shoes. She was tall enough that unless it was a special situation, she generally didn''t wear high heels.


    Rong Dai nodded. Although the shoot didn''t require showing her feet, in order to enhance the overall temperament, she had still changed into high heels.


    These high heels were beautiful, but for someone like her who wasn''t used to wearing them, they were pure torture.


    "It hurts..."


    She yed along with his words, leaning into his arms and letting Huo Shao Ting carry her back to the penthouse he had previously used as a rest area in another building.


    After putting her on the sofa, Huo Shao Ting went to get some massage oil and propped up her legs on his own.


    Then he took off her high heels, revealing her white toes squeezed red.


    Huo Shao Ting poured oil and gave her a serious, careful massage.


    Although Rong Dai was used to his tenderness and doting, and used to him washing her body, this was still the first time he had massaged her feet.


    When her feet were touched by his warm, slightly calloused palms, her heart quivered, and her whole body felt like electricity was rippling through it!


    She had been silent the whole time. His massage felt veryfortable and she wanted to quietly enjoy it.


    But her body was like it was cursed,pletely out of control. The feeling in her feet was like a strange itch, making her w at her heart miserably.


    "Shao Ting..."


    She couldn''t help calling his name, but it came out mellow and powerless. Even her gaze at him was weak.


    It was almost like she was...begging for intimacy!


    Rong Dai was extremely ashamed. Why did she keep making these sounds?!


    Huo Shao Ting had been wholeheartedly massaging her feet to relieve her pain, but her voice...made his blood boil!


    It had been almost a month since they lost their child. He had been restraining himself, afraid to hurt her body.


    Now it was already early April.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks were flushed as she looked away, not daring to meet his eyes directly.


    She also couldn''t control her body''s longing for him. Counting the time, it should be okay now.


    "Call for me again."


    Huo Shao Ting wiped his hands and desire colored his eyes as he slid his palm up her leg.


    "Shao...Shao Ting..."


    Her face burned. She called his name again, shy and nervous.


    In the next moment Huo Shao Ting had pulled her into his arms. His breathing was rough as he fiercely sucked her lips!


    "You..."


    Rong Dai cried from the pain.


    Huo Shao Ting felt immediate remorse and irritation at his momentary excitement when he saw her swollen lips. His movements were gentle as he slowly, gently, showered her with kisses...

 Chapter 445: The Price of Not Enough to Eat

    <h4>Chapter 445</h4>


    During this passionate encounter, Huo Shao Ting was extremely gentle and considerate of her feelings.


    But even though he was already gentle and attentive enough, Rong Dai still couldn''t withstand his passion and cried with tears running down her face as she begged for mercy before finally passing out.


    Huo Shao Ting lovingly tidied her hair and removed the clothes she hadn''t managed to take off, wrapping her in a thin nket and taking her into the bathroom to wash her clean.


    The couple disappeared from the photography studio for the entire afternoon, leaving Zhang Assistant and Ran Jing staring at each other, both fully aware of what had happened.


    When Rong Dai woke up, it was already around 9 pm.


    It had been a long time since she had been so intimate with him, and her body was a little sore. She sat up in bed and nced around before lying back down again.


    She curled up under the nkets, a faint coquettish look on her charming face, her beautiful eyes half-closed like a noble littlezy cat.


    As if sharing her thoughts, Huo Shao Ting returned just then with a thermal food container.


    After cing the container on the dining table, he went to wash his hands and take off his outer garment beforeing over to check on her.


    Seeing her looking so coquettish, his heart turned to mush and he couldn''t resist nting soft kisses from her forehead down the bridge of her nose to her lips.


    Rong Dai watched him with half-closed eyes, and when his thin lips came down she opened her mouth and bit him!


    Huo Shao Ting''s brows knitted momentarily before smoothing out again, his eyes full of indulgence and helplessness.


    Rong Dai hadn''t bitten too hard. After all, he was thepany president and needed an imposing aura to keep all those employees in line.


    If he showed up in front of the employees with sausage lips, how would that look?


    "Be good... get up to eat, you need food to keep your strength up."


    Huo Shao Ting''s patience with her exceeded everyone''s imagination, coaxing her as if she were a child.


    Rong Dai red at him petntly, "I''m not a child!"


    "I know," Huo Shao Ting replied with a smile. As he handed her the preparedmbswool jacket to put on, he added, "You''re just my precious."


    Rong Dai''s ears turned red and her heart fluttered.


    The feeling of being doted on and loved by him was wonderful and addicting.


    This man had allowed her to experience so many beautiful, blissful things.


    "Carry me."


    Her legs were still sore and weak after he helped her put on the jacket, so she simply stretched out her hands to act cute with him.


    Huo Shao Ting''s handsome face never stopped smiling as he reached out to pick her up, taking the chance to steal a kiss on her cheek.


    Rong Dai really was hungry after the physical exertion that afternoon.


    Seeing her eat with such satisfaction put Huo Shao Ting in an excellent mood.


    After eating her fill, Rong Dai quickly brushed her teeth and washed her face before curling up on the sofa toplete her daily schoolwork on her tablet.


    By the time Huo Shao Ting finished his shower, she was just about done too.


    Perhaps because it had been a long time since they werest intimate, Rong Dai couldn''t resist wanting to stick close to him. Seeing that he still had things to deal with, she pulled up a chair and sat beside him.


    Knowing that she feared the cold, Huo Shao Ting set his documents aside and pulled her onto hisp to sit.


    Satisfied, Rong Dai rested her head against his chest and her eyes drifted half-shut, on the verge of dozing off. But her little paws did not remain still, subtly tracing over his chest and abs.


    "Hungry again, hmm?"


    Huo Shao Ting really couldn''t stand it anymore. If this was in the past when his body was like a monk''s, he wouldn''t have any ideas.


    But after having tasted these sensations, he was unable to restrain himself, especially since the woman was his beloved wife.


    Rong Dai arched her brows defiantly. "Can''t eat my fill..."


    In the next moment she realized the price she would have to pay for those taunting words, without even a chance to regret them.

 Chapter 446: Send Me Someone

    <h4>Chapter 446</h4>


    That night, the couple did not return to Huafu Hill City. After extreme intimacy, both their bodies and minds were greatly satisfied.


    As a result, Rong Dai felt weak and powerless the next morning, unable to get out of bed.


    Huo Shao Ting also did not go downstairs to work. Instead, he brought up breakfast and served it to her in bed.


    "I can''t eat anymore..."


    Due tost night''s craziness, her body was still exhausted. After a few sips of porridge, she did not want to eat anymore and nestledzily into the quilt.


    Huo Shao Ting did not force her. He took away the breakfast and brought her a cup of hot milk.


    "Drink a little before going back to sleep."


    He reached out his big hand to fish her out from the quilt, his eyes full of pampering and loving care.


    Apart from liking bird''s nest, Rong Dai also loved drinking milk.


    After finishing the hot milk sip by sip, Rong Dai copsed onto the bed. Her eyes were half-closed as she looked at him, aszy as a little cat.


    After Huo Shao Ting put away the cup, he made a phone call to Assistant Zhang. Then he sat down on the sofa by the bed with aptop in his arms.


    "Be good... Sleep a little longer, I''ll be right here with you."


    He smoothed her bangs with one hand, while gently instructing her in a soft voice. His thin lips alsonded on the tip of her nose.


    Rong Dai wrapped herself in the quilt again and looked at himzily, shaking her head. "No, I''ll just lie down for a while. I still have to go to thepanyter."


    As she spoke, she clung to his arm and pulled him into the quilt.


    Huo Shao Ting had no choice. Lying on his side, he put an arm around her slender waist. Light, fragmented kissesnded on her forehead, her cheeks.


    It made Rong Dai feel itchy. She could only reach out to hold his face and examine it closely. "Mr. Huo, spare this youngdy..."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled lightly and stopped his actions.


    Seeing that he had agreed, Rong Dai let go of him. She burrowed into his chest, and her fluffy hair tickled Huo Shao Ting''s face.


    Leaning against him, Rong Dai felt extremelyfortable.


    A man who truly pampers you will teach you how to be a little girl.


    These were all given to her by Huo Shao Ting.


    She did not need to be dignified and virtuous. She did not need to be generous and graceful.


    In front of him, she only needed to be herself��whining, clever, cunning, shrewd��all were fine.


    "Shao Ting, there''s something I want to tell you."


    Although she looked extremelyzy, her mind was still on things at thepany.


    There were too many emotional fluctuations for Lu Nianzhi right now. Her abilities were beyond doubt.


    However, the matters with Xu Chuan and Ling Yan were like thorns in Lu Nianzhi''s heart. Previously, it was just Xu Chuan. Lu Nianzhi had calmed down after a few days.


    But now Ling Yan''s appearance stimted her again. Currently, many of Magnolia Fragrance''s tasks relied heavily on Lu Nianzhi''s position.


    If mistakes urred under Lu Nianzhi, the previous efforts would be wasted.


    "Mm..."


    Huo Shao Ting responded lightly. Being with her, even if they did nothing, just chatting like this, he felt extremely satisfied and increasingly greedy for such moments.


    "Ning Yue used Ling Yan as their spokesperson. Sister Nian Zhi and Mr. Xu''s rtionship isplicated. I can''t intervene. "


    "But Sister Nian Zhi''s position is very important now, and she doesn''t want to take leave."


    "So I''m thinking, can you send me another person? I''m not asking for someone on Sister Nian Zhi''s level, but at least someone who understands, to assist Sister Nian Zhi in her work. Is that okay?"


    She looked up slightly at him as she asked.


    Where could she find someoneparable to Lu Nianzhi''s abilities in such a short time? Even if she did find someone, she might not necessarily trust that person.


    So she might as well poach from the Huo Group!

 Chapter 447: Asking for a Reward 02

    <h4>Chapter 447</h4>


    ��What��s my reward?��


    Huo Shao Ting raised his eyebrows at her, his palm ced on her waist was a bit naughty.


    Rong Dai��s ears turned red, understanding the implication behind his words.


    Her cheeks were flushed, slender hands sneaked into his clothes, teasing his chest, looking at him slyly but also a bit provocatively: ��Isn��t this enough?��


    Huo Shao Ting��s breathing stalled for a moment, she was bing bolder and bolder!


    But... he liked it!


    Rong Dai had already experienced the ��consequences�� of provoking himst night. This time she was already familiar with his tricks, her hands took the initiative to cling onto his shoulders...


    After a morning''s time, Rong Dai was so tired that she didn��t even want to move her fingers. She slept until two o''clock in the afternoon before waking up.


    As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw Huo Shao Ting sitting not far away handling things.


    Her eyes revealed tenderness and sweetness. She got up, wrapped herself in a thin nket, walked barefoot on the soft carpet over to him, hugged him from behind the sofa, and ced a light kiss on his cheek.


    Huo Shao Ting stopped what he was doing, tilted his head to look at her and also kissed her back: "Do you want to sleep a little longer?"


    Rong Dai shook her head, pulling the thin nket tighter around her: "I want to go to Magnolia Fragrance for a bit."


    "I''ll give you a massage when we get back tonight."


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the time, and didn''t stop her either, saying this with a straight face.


    Hearing his words, Rong Dai couldn��t help but recall yesterday''s events in her mind, ring at him angrily, then turned around to wash up and get ready.


    Huo Shao Ting had previously put her clothes in here, so Rong Dai easily found suitable clothes for herself.


    By the time she had changed and came out, Huo Shao Ting was already impably dressed in a suit waiting for her: "I''ll take you there, after work we''ll go out for dinner and meet someone along the way."


    Rong Dai was not pretentious either. The husband and wife took the CEO''s private elevator down to the underground garage.


    Huo Shao Ting thoughtfully opened the car door for her and made sure her seatbelt was fastened before getting in the car and driving her to Magnolia Fragrance.


    "Oh, little Dai, yourplexion... Huo''s nourishment is very adequate!"


    As soon as she entered Magnolia Fragrance, she received teasing from Ran Jing.


    "Jing jie..."


    She was helpless, in that kind of situation yesterday, even if she wanted to exin, someone would have to believe her!


    "We''re all married women, I understand!"


    Ran Jing''s beautiful eyes were full of ridicule. After speaking, her expression changed instantly back to her normal work demeanor.


    "The promotional photos from yesterday''s shoot havee out and I''ve put them on your desk."


    Rong Dai nodded, went into the office with her bag, and found the finished promotional photos ced on the table as expected.


    The photography skills of Huo''s photographers were very good, not only achieving the effect Rong Dai wanted, but even more stunning!


    She looked at each one very carefully before taking them out.


    "What do you think?"


    Ran Jing saw here out so quickly and was not surprised at all.


    She was the first to get the promotional photos. When she received these three sets of photos this morning, she already knew how amazing the effect would be.


    "Very good!"


    Rong Dai was very satisfied, then handed the photos to Ran Jing: "Let''s go with these promotional photos. Please work hard with Nianzhi jie to connect with Meishu��s tform as soon as possible and put the photos up for promotion."


    Right now, Ningyue Fashion was breathing down their necks, doing everything ahead of them, so Magnolia Fragrance naturally had to hurry up too.


    "Don''t worry, everything is ready, just waiting for your word!"


    Ran Jing snapped her fingers, her face revealing a charming and confident look, taking the photos to discuss with Lu Nianzhi and several others from Huo Meishu.

 Chapter 448: What鈥檚 Beautiful About it

    <h4>Chapter 448</h4>


    In recent times, Ningyue Fashion has made quite a sensation, although Shi Ning does not have too much talent in design, having grown up immersed in the Brocade Embroidery Workshop since childhood, her designs are at least mediocre.


    Because of the poprity of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and her own poprity here, she has been working especially hard these past few days to promote Ling Yan.


    For a time, no one couldpete with the poprity of Ningyue Fashion, and somepanies had also wanted to take advantage of this TK incident to make their ownpanies stand out.


    However, all the media hype and attention went to Ningyue Fashion''s side, and quite a fewpanies could only look on with envy.


    "Miss Shi, are you satisfied?"


    In the photography studio, Ling Yan had an enchanting smile on her face, still wearing the outfit Shi Ning had designed for her. She had just finished a set of promotional photos.


    Shi Ning was looking them over and immediately nodded: "Very good!"


    She wanted to see what Rong Dai would use topete with her!


    "After the shoot is done, I''d like to go deal with some personal matters these next couple days, Miss Shi can give me time off right?" Ling Yan asked her with a smile.


    Shi Ning looked at her with deep meaning in her eyes: "Don''t forget where your current poprityes from. Focus on doing your job well, I won''t interfere with anything else."


    "Don''t worry Miss Shi, weplement each other."


    "Continue shooting," Shi Ning nodded. Although young, when her face turned cold it was still frightening.


    Ling Yan withdrew the smile on her face and turned to walk back in front of the camera.


    "Miss Shi, take a look at this, Magnolia Fragrance just released it," the assistant came over with a solemn expression on her face, showing her the photos Magnolia Fragrance had just released on Weibo on her tablet.


    The M Station and Baowang ounts were made into a slideshow.


    As soon as the photos came out, the ounts were quickly surrounded by crowds there to watch the drama unfold.


    The photography quality of these three sets of photos was very high. Rong Dai''s face did not appear in the photos, only her clothing took up half of each photo, along with Magnolia Fragrance''s logo, and the caption "Your beauty cannot be defined" as the background of each photo.


    Her hands held newlyunched pieces in each photo.


    The photos were designed as posters, very eye-catching.


    Although enhanced by Rong Dai''s personal charm, they did not overwhelm or take away focus, still perfectly showcasing the beauty and texture of each piece.


    The three sets of photos with nine photos total were posted in three separate Weibo posts.


    Previously, because Shi Ning had manipted public opinion to smear Magnolia Fragrance''s reputation before it was even publicly announced, now seeing Magnolia Fragrance suddenly posting something after being silent for so long, thements section below attracted both curious people there to watch the drama, as well as fans of Ningyue Fashion.


    "Are these new pieces from Magnolia Fragrance? I love that armlet!"


    "And that hairpin, bangle...ahhhhh so beautiful!"


    "Pfft, what''s so beautiful about them?"


    "Right! What year is this, using tacky gold metal, it''spletely low ss!"


    ...


    As soon as the photos came out, many different voices immediately appeared in thements.


    "Is Rong Dai trying to ze her own path? Isn''t she a clothing designer? Thinks this is enough to regain poprity?"


    When Shi Ning saw these photos, a sh of jealousy passed through her eyes, but her words were still disdainful.


    Having grown up at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, after being immersed there for so long, her eye for things was still a bit discerning.


    The three sets of pieces from Magnolia Fragrance mainly used gold as the material, the workmanship was extremely exquisite and beautiful, very different from the gold jewelry sold in stores.


    In ancient times, gold jewelry was considered precious items favored by royalty and nobles.


    The old craftsmanship for making gold jewelry was meticulous, the skills extremely refined, with aesthetic beauty.


    But most modern gold jewelry ces more emphasis on value appreciation, so the craftsmanship is actually not as delicate. Therefore, most gold jewelry nowadays looks rather outdated.

 Chapter 449: Full of Dust and Air

    <h4>Chapter 449</h4>


    Magnolia Fragrance''stest gold jewelry designs were filled with an aristocratic air.


    Noble and luxurious.


    At first nce, it was dazzling!


    Gold jewelry is inherently a symbol of nobility, otherwise how could sessive dynasties have used gold as their main color scheme?


    Shi Ning was a little jealous, but she was prepared.


    If Magnolia Fragrance could make jewelry, her Ningyue Fashion also had jewelry designers.


    She would crush Rong Dai in every way!


    "In the future, don''t bother me with this kind of trash news. Hand it over to the marketing department. The quarterly solo products we prepared earlier can be released now."


    Shi Ning heavily put the tablet back into her assistant''s hands, her voice was cold and gloomy.


    The assistant didn''t dare defy her, holding the tablet hesitantly.


    "If you have something to say, then say it. What''s with all the hemming and hawing?"


    Shi Ning frowned. If not for this assistant being assigned by her grandmother, she would''ve fired her long ago!


    She had no foresight at all!


    The assistant''s expression changed slightly, then she spoke, "The legal department at Magnolia Fragrance is run by the Second Young Master."


    "Also, the jewelry set we prepared earlier that was supposed to be reshot, wasn''t Miss Ling going to be the photographer? Releasing it now..."


    The assistant didn''t finish her words, hesitating slightly.


    Shi Ning frowned, she didn''t expect her good brother to actually go help herpetitor!


    But this was good too, she would ruin Magnolia Fragrance''s reputationpletely.


    "Release it. Does good photography quality represent the actual quality of the products? How long has Magnolia Fragrance been established? Do they think they can rival Brocade Embroidery Workshop?"


    Shi Ning sneered coldly.


    The assistant really wanted to remind her that this was Ningyue Fashion, although rted to Brocade Embroidery Workshop, it was not the same as Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    But seeing Shi Ning''s expression, she didn''t want to say anything.


    "Yes, Ms. Shi."


    "Also, find someone to do something for me..."


    Shi Ning instructed her before feeling satisfied and continuing to watch Miss Ling''s photoshoot.


    Right after Magnolia Fragrance released their promotional photos, Ningyue Fashion followed closely, also releasing two sets of jewelry campaign photos.


    "This Ningyue... I really @#$%#@!"


    Lu Nianzhi had been in a terrible mood these past two days.


    After the photos were released, a few of them squatted in front of theputer looking at the backend data andments under the ount.


    Unexpectedly, less than half an hourter, Ningyue also released photos!


    This was clearly a provocation!


    Lu Nianzhi swore on the spot in anger.


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression was also ugly. Ji Zheng only handled legal matters and did not participate in anything else.


    Rong Dai and Ran Jing were much calmer.


    Ningyue Fashion making this move was within their expectations.


    Since Shi Ning could calcte every step so precisely before, how could she not have prepared for this situation?


    "But don''t you think the quality of Ningyue Fashion''s photos is very low? Full of vulgarity."


    Song Xuechun was also watching on the side. Usually she would have exploded in anger already!


    But after working at Magnolia Fragrance for some time, she had gradually curbed this bad habit. Holding a tablet, she weakly said.


    "You''re right!"


    Huo Mei Shu hurriedly moved her mouse topare the twopanies'' promotional photos.


    One was full of elegance, the other was... indescribable.


    "Isn''t my little Dai''s hands looking good in this photo? Otherwise how could the photo look so good?"


    Ran Jing smiled charmingly, lightly resting a hand on Rong Dai''s shoulder, looking at her yfully.


    After interacting for a period of time, Rong Dai probably understood Ran Jing''s personality too, and didn''t mind her teasing.


    "Since the promotional photos are ready, what''s the reaction from those popr public tforms we contacted earlier?"


    "Three private viral tforms have already signed the contracts, the drafts have been sent over, I''ve reviewed them and there are no issues."


    "I''ll send the photos to them today, they''ll post tonight."


    Lu Nianzhi swiped her tablet and showed her the data.

 Chapter 450: No One Wants to Sign Up

    <h4>Chapter 450</h4>


    "How are the preparations for the live stream going?" Rong Dai asked seriously while looking at the data, and continued asking.


    No matter what Ning Yue does now, she won''t pay any attention to it.


    What she has to do now is to open up the "blocked" situation of Mu Lan Xiang.


    As for Ning Yue and Shi Ning.


    A person only bes careless and most likely to make mistakes when they are most proud and most angry.


    If Shi Ning makes a mistake, Ning Yue Fashion will suffer as well.


    The higher you climb, the more painful the fall!


    It''s not that she doesn''t want to deal with Shi Ning, but she is waiting for the best opportunity.


    She wants a fatal blow!


    Leave Shi Ning no chance to recover!


    Speaking of live streaming, Lu Nianzhi sighed and then took out another file and handed it to her: "The live streaming will probably have to be done by ourselves."


    "Why?" Rong Dai frowned immediately.


    Having them do it themselves is not a joke.


    "Popr streamers can make money at their current contractedpanies, and now we are having such a big conflict with Ning Yue Fashion. "


    "To avoid harm, of course no one is willing to sign a contract."


    "Although some small streamers are willing toe, their fame is not enough. Signing them would be the same as not signing at all, it wouldn''t achieve the effect we want."


    "As for neers, I''ve been paying attention, and there hasn''t been any ideal candidates."


    Lu Nianzhi exined.


    Rong Dai was at a loss immediately. She couldn''t possibly be expected to take the stage herself, could she?


    Although it was an option, she knew nothing about live streaming.


    The melon-eating audience already had some criticisms about Mu Lan Xiang. If there was a mistake in the live stream, it would be a group mockery.


    Then Mu Lan Xiang would really be rubbed back and forth on the ground by Ning Yue.


    This was not what she wanted to see.


    "Isn''t there any other way?" She asked while looking at the file.


    There was silence in the office, with only thements on theputer refreshing wildly.


    Malicious reviews, ridicule, and other vicious words almost dominated the entirement section of the ount.


    Although there were also good voicesing out, they would be drowned out quickly and scolded on the spot so that they didn''t dare to speak again.


    This situation was within Rong Dai''s expectations.


    "There is one person who can do it, but... I''m worried it will cause even bigger trouble for the tform."


    Ran Jing gathered the smile on her face, her expression more serious and solemn than ever before.


    "Sister Jing, tell us about it first."


    Rong Dai said. This live stream was an important part of the n and could not be dropped.


    Looking at Ran Jing, Lu Nianzhi was startled a few secondster: "Sister Jing, you can''t mean you want Xiao Yu to make aeback?"


    Upon hearing the name "Xiao Yu", Huo Mei Shu was stunned for a moment, and her expression also changed, with both anticipation and worry.


    "But sister Yu, can she do it?"


    Rong Dai didn''t know the reason behind this. "Sister Jing."


    Ran Jing looked at her and motioned for her to sit down, then told her about Ran Yu''s affairs.


    "...This is why Xiao Yu shut down her ount."


    "She''s been very depressed these past two days. I''m worried that if this continues, she will bepletely useless as a person, and may even lose the will to survive."


    Ran Jing recounted the cause and results. The coquettishness and charm were gone from her beautiful face, reced by deep concern.


    "President Rong, I... actually wanted to make this request to youst month."


    "But I was also afraid that the incident from two years ago would be brought up by the audience again, and it would affect Xiao Yu''s emotions, so I didn''t bring it up."


    "But Xiao Yu likes the livestreaming lifestyle. No tforms have been willing to sign a contract with her in the past two years. This may be herst chance."


    Ran Jing said in a deep voice. This matter had been bothering her for almost a month.

 Chapter 451: Because She was Desperate

    <h4>Chapter 451</h4>


    "Nianzhi, you keep in contact over there. Jing,e to my office."


    Rong Dai did not agree immediately.


    After instructing Lu Nianzhi, she walked towards her office with the file.


    Ran Jing followed her in.


    "Jing, I''d like to see Ran Yu first if possible."


    "As you know, this is a crucial period for Magnolia Fragrance. If Ran Yu cannot ensure the quality of her live streaming, I won''t be able to sign her."


    After sitting down, Rong Dai looked at Ran Jing directly and told her inly without beating around the bush.


    Ran Jing had struggled in the industry for so many years and had seen all kinds of people, so she did not need to talk circuitously with the other party.


    "That''s fine. Thest incident... was not entirely Yu''s fault."


    "She has also suffered a lot these past two years. If President Rong can give her this chance, I, Ran Jing, will stay at Magnolia Fragrance for life!"


    Ran Jing''s eyes instantly turned red.


    Rong Dai looked at her with a serious expression: "Sister Jing, I have to consider Yu first before I can give you an answer."


    "Also, although I really want you to stay at Magnolia Fragrance, that was not my original intention to help you."


    "I hope that in the future, you will be willing to stay because Magnolia Fragrance has your dreams and can make your dreamse true."


    The reason she said this was not because she really wanted to tie Ran Jing to Magnolia Fragrance for this reason.


    Rather, she had been in despair before.


    So she understood this feeling.


    "I understand. I''ll contact Yu right away!"


    Ran Jing nodded gratefully and hurried out with her phone.


    Rong Dai leaned back in her chair and heaved a long sigh, wondering if she was being too sympathetic.


    But she had been through despair and understood Ran Yu''s current situation very clearly.


    She thought for a moment, took out her phone and sent Huo Shao Ting a message.


    Huo Shao Ting was in a video conference. Seeing her messagee in, he gestured to pause it.


    After carefully reading her message, he replied "Will message youter" and had Zhang Assistant investigate the matter.


    When Zhang Assistant saw Ran Yu''s name, he was stunned for a moment but didn''t say anything. He immediately went to instruct people to investigate.


    She was his little aunt. Of course he knew what the situation was.


    But the BOSS wanted data.


    After the video conference ended, Zhang Assistant had already ced the data found from the investigation on Huo Shao Ting''s desk.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at the data seriously without hurrying to reply to Rong Dai.


    In fact, Ran Yu''s matter was not veryplicated. It was just that her influence on the tform was particrly detrimental, greatly affecting thepany''s image, so she was banned.


    With her delicate looks and sweet voice, Ran Yu skyrocketed to fame and became an inte celebrity two years ago.


    However, her rise to fame was as quick as her fall.


    Due to indecent verbal sexual harassment from male fans on the tform, although Ran Yu was cute and beautiful, she had a fiery temper.


    While live streaming, she tore into the male fan, causing considerable attention at the time.


    Although the male fan was at fault, Ran Yu handled it improperly and was banned and had her contract terminated by the tform.


    For the past two years, no tform had been willing to sign a contract with her.


    "Do you have anything to say?"


    Huo Shao Ting asked Zhang Assistant.


    Zhang Assistant was startled: "Yu has deeply reflected these past two years. If Madam is willing to give her this chance, I believe she will cherish it."


    Because of the matter with his little aunt, his wife had even separated from him for a while, and living alone was simply unbearable!


    "Mm."


    Huo Shao Ting responded lightly. After thinking for a moment, he finally sent a message back to Rong Dai.

 Chapter 452: Wings of Fashion Invitation Card

    <h4>Chapter 452</h4>


    When Rong Dai received Huo Shao Ting''s message, it was also time to get off work.


    After Rong Dai replied to him, she quickly tidied up her things and went out of the office to Huo Mei Shu''sputer to look at the updated data.


    Although there were constant bad reviews, the click-through rate was still very stable.


    "By the way, sister-inw, I just received some fans'' questions in your personal ount."


    When Huo Mei Shu saw here over, she immediately logged into Rong Dai''s personal ount.


    Due to the need for publicity, Rong Dai''s personal ount was also handed over to Huo Mei Shu to manage.


    "They asked if a fan club could be established. Sister-inw, you are also half a person in the entertainment industry."


    "Although Shi Ning is not a person in the entertainment industry, she also has her own fan club."


    "I think we can establish a Magnolia Fragrance fan club."


    "This way it is convenient to manage. If there is any news, they can also release it, so the influence will be greater."


    Rong Dai pondered for a few seconds: "You are in charge of these things now. If you think it should be created, then create one."


    "No problem!"


    Huo Mei Shu made an OK gesture and immediately created the Magnolia Fragrance Fan Club.


    Rong Dai didn''t say much. As soon as she looked up, she saw Huo Shao Ting walking in from outside. After greeting the office staff, he went out.


    There were originally some entertainment reporters squatting at the door of Magnolia Fragrance. Because from the afternoon until now, Magnolia Fragrance and Ning Yue had sessively posted pictures and sessfully been sent to hot search by fans and melon-eating crowds.


    These entertainment reporters certainly could not fail to smell this scent of gunpowder.


    They just didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting to appear here. Holding video equipment, they didn''t dare to approach, they could only silently watch the couple leave.


    "Where are you going?"


    Sitting in the passenger seat, Rong Dai touched up her makeup while asking him.


    "Evaluator."


    Huo Shao Ting drove the car and answered her very concisely.


    Rong Dai''s eyes lit up immediately. This matter was mentionedst month.


    The Wing of Fashion''s invitation card.


    "Her name is Tao Yaofang. She is the wife of designer Li Cong and the evaluator of The Wing of Fashion. She often stays abroad most of the time."


    "The event of The Wing of Fashion is in May, so I made an appointment with her for dinner today for you."


    Before she could ask, Huo Shao Ting looked at her and continued to exin to her.


    Rong Dai listened quietly, and soon the couple drove to a high-end luxury restaurant.


    Huo Shao Ting took a bag from the trunk and led her into the restaurant with one hand.


    The couple followed the waiter''s lead into the private room where designer Li Cong and his wife had been waiting for a long time.


    She had seen designer Li Cong before, but she hadn''t seen Tao Yaofang.


    A woman''s intuition has always been the most keen. Moreover, there were only four people in the private room. So the two women''s eyes met immediately.


    After greeting each other politely, they sat down. Although the exquisite dishes were on the table, no one picked up their chopsticks.


    "Sister Tao, can you get the invitation card done?"


    Before Rong Dai could think about how to bring up the matter, Huo Shao Ting next to her asked bluntly.


    Tao Yaofang was immediately embarrassed: "Can''t you let me eat a bite of hot food first? Abroad it''s either steak or bread. Let me eat a couple bites of hometown food before we talk about things, okay?"


    Rong Dai was a little confused why Huo Shao Ting called Tao Yaofang sister Tao. She couldn��t insert a word in this dinner, so she just listened quietly.


    "As long as you want to eat, I can pay the bill anytime."


    "The event of The Wing of Fashion is very important to my wife. Since Sister Tao you are back in the country, I don''t have to go abroad specially to run a trip."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was light and calm, but his attitude was much better than when he usually spoke at thepany.


    Tao Yaofang smiled helplessly and took a box from the side of the seat and ced it on the table in front of the couple.

 Chapter 453: Take an Endorsement

    <h4>Chapter 453</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting picked up the box and also turned the bag he had brought to Tao Yaofang.


    "This is thepany''s new smart hearing aid that is still being tested internally. There are some ws that are being improved, but it performs better than the one you are using now."


    Huo Shao Ting said.


    "Consider it as your gift to meet Rong Dai."


    Tao Yaofang smiled and turned another gift box that had already been prepared.


    Her gaze fell on Rong Dai, "When you got married, I happened to be busy. This is a little something for you, don''t refuse it."


    Rong Dai was a little confused, she couldn''t understand the rtionship between these two people.


    Seeing this, Tao Yaofang nced at Huo Shao Ting, "It seems you haven''t told Rong Dai about my rtionship with the Huo family yet."


    Huo Shao Ting put down the box, his gaze falling on Rong Dai, "Aunt Tao is an orphan with disabilities who was raised by grandmother, and is grandmother''s half adoptive daughter."


    So she was one of their own.


    Rong Dai suddenly understood, and called Tao Yaofang "Aunt Tao" along with his terms.


    "I''ve heard about you from Shao Ting, although I''m half your aunt, I won''t go easy on you."


    "Thepetition at The Wing of Fashion is fierce. If you win the award, your status will be better than even ten Shi Nings."


    After getting to know each other, Tao Yaofang spoke.


    Although she had just returned for a short time, she roughly understood the situation that was hyped up on the Inte.


    "I''ll do my best."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded. If Tao Yaofang went easy on her, the result would not be what she wanted.


    The four of them then had dinner in the private room. Tao Yaofang was articte and revealed a lot of inside information about The Wing of Fashion to her over the meal.


    The meal went quite smoothly. Since Tao Yaofang had to meet a friend after the meal, the couple drove back to Huafu Hill City.


    Back home, Rong Dai asked him in detail, "Does anyone else know that Aunt Tao is grandmother''s adoptive daughter?"


    Now Shi Ning was very arrogant. If she knew about this, she would definitely try to take advantage of it.


    Then her participation in The Wing of Fashion would be meaningless.


    Huo Shao Ting knew what she was worried about. He put his arm around her waist and said softly, "Only the family knows about this. Aunt Tao has been abroad for many years. Don''t worry."


    Rong Dai nodded. Only then did she open the box to check out the invitation card and the gift Tao Yaofang had given her.


    The invitation card from The Wing of Fashion was made very exquisitely with Rong Dai''s name handwritten on it.


    The gift Tao Yaofang gave her was a gemstone bracelet, very delicate but also valuable.


    "What does Aunt Tao like? I should prepare a return gift."


    "You don''t need to prepare anything. I''ve already given her what she needs at the dinner table just now."


    Huo Shao Ting exined, his big hand holding her slender hand as he supported her waist.


    His eyes were deep, his face close to hers as he asked in a low voice, "Is Mrs. Huo interested in taking on an endorsement?"


    He didn''t want to see his wife being bullied.


    He had promised her not to interfere with how she handled things, but he never promised not to help her in his own way.


    Rong Dai was puzzled and turned her head slightly to ask him, "What endorsement?"


    "Huo''s Jewelry. Your hands are very beautiful, perfect for it."


    Huo Shao Ting said softly, unable to resist lightly kissing her slender hand he was holding.


    Rong Dai was stunned, her heart tips warming up: "But endorsement fees are very expensive!"


    "No matter how expensive, it''s worth it."


    He said softly. They understood each other''s feelings without saying too much.

 Chapter 454: Have Me By Your Side

    <h4>Chapter 454</h4>


    Huo''s Enterprise has diversified business interests, although the core business is in the field of intelligent technology, but it is also involved in industries like jewelry, apparel, catering, etc.


    Although Huo''s Jewelry also enjoys a good reputation domestically, its brilliance has been overshadowed by the core business.


    "What about the endorser signed by Huo''s?"


    Rong Dai understood his intention, but she couldn''t not consider for him either.


    "Don''t worry, it''s just one of the series. This time it''s for charity."


    "80% of the proceeds from the sales of this series, after deducting costs, will be invested in teaching aid in mountainous areas." Huo Shao Ting exined.


    Sincest time, Rong Dai had done some homework.


    Although Huo''s Enterprise was a big financial group, they had put a lot of heart into charity work.


    "But my current poprity..."


    Hearing him say that, Rong Dai suddenly lost confidence.


    It wasn''t that shecked confidence in herself, but those keyboard warriors on the Inte were hard to deal with.


    Since this was prepared for teaching aid in mountainous areas, what if she messed it up with her endorsement?


    "Don''t worry, you have to believe in yourself."


    Huo Shao Ting saw her worries and gently reassured her, "Besides, I''ll be with you."


    Since he said that, he must have made arrangements naturally.


    "I can''t bear to see you suffer. I promised not to interfere with you, but I won''t let people keep riding on your head and make trouble."


    "You can do whatever you n to do, and I won''t stop you. But don''t stop me from dealing with it in my own way either, okay?"


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her. Imagining her hands in front of the camera, wearing Huo''s jewelry, they would definitely look more beautiful!


    Rong Dai nodded. It wasn''t weak to grow with his help.


    It was because she had figured this out that she became moreposed.


    ...


    The next morning, there was a short rain. As usual, Rong Dai got up early, washed up and went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.


    "Your hands are precious now, they are for embroidery and endorsement."


    "Kitchen fumes are heavy and cooking damages the hands. Tell me what you want to eat and I��ll make it for you."


    Seeing her going into the kitchen, Huo Shao Ting immediately stopped her.


    Rong Dai looked at her own hands, and then at his hands. She put her arms around his waist, "Why don''t we hire a chef?"


    She had a career n. Her hands really needed to be kept acute all the time and couldn��t be damaged one bit.


    And his hands needed to sign documents.


    Every document he signed started at least eight digits. His hands were precious too.


    Huo Shao Ting agreed. He still made breakfast himself.


    After having breakfast together, Huo Shao Ting sent her to Magnolia Fragrance as usual.


    "Sister-inw,e and see!"


    As soon as she entered the office, Huo Mei Shu excitedly pulled her to sit down, then quickly slid the mouse.


    "Sister-inw, I don''t know who Shi Ning offended."


    "Last night someone PS��ed the promotional photos they released and posted them online. Now it has be a hot search!"


    "The click rate of the three sets of promotional photos we released from Magnolia Fragrance is growing very fast now, and thements are also shifting in a positive direction!"


    Seeing such a result, Huo Mei Shu was more excited than anyone else!


    Following the mouse slide, Rong Dai did see that most of thements under Magnolia Fragrance were positive.


    The situation of being relentlessly attacked by Shi Ning Yue Fashion fans yesterday did not happen again.


    This was indeed a good start.


    "Remember to keep the data. It will be useful when analyzingter."


    Rong Dai reminded her.


    Huo Mei Shu nodded excitedly, then briefed her on the results of Magnolia Fragrance fan group.


    Rong Dai nodded and asked her some questions before letting her get back to work.

 Chapter 455: Big Endorsement

    <h4>Chapter 455</h4>


    She had just sat down in the office when Lu Nianzhi came in holding files and a tablet to report on work.


    "The dates for the publicity events on the Queen''s side have been sent over already. It''s the 16th, 17th, and 18th of this month, a total of three days of publicity events."


    "I''ll make a schedule for these three days for you. I also just received the endorsement contract from Huo''s Jewelry."


    Lu Nianzhi put down the files and looked at her, sighing enviously: "I didn''t expect Chairman Huo to dote on you so much. Although this endorsement can''tpare to the international top-tier jewelry endorsements..."


    "But domestically, this carries a lot of weight."


    "The Hope series jewelry, Huo''s Jewelry only releases individual pieces for the first and second half of each year."


    "The proceeds from this jewelry series are all used for charity work. It��s good for both reputation and benefit, the best endorsement to build an image."


    "There aren''t many people domestically who have gotten this endorsement before. This endorsement surpasses even Embroidery House. Chairman Huo is clearly trying to help you overwhelm Shi Ning!"


    Rong Dai was surprised. Although she had already heard Huo Shao Ting say sost night, seeing the documents and data in her hands now made it more intuitive for her to see the power of this endorsement.


    After Lu Nianzhi received the email, she immediatelypiled information for her. Even leading veteran seniors in the entertainment industry like actress Qiao Wanzhou with acting skills and real strength had not gotten this endorsement before.


    "I understand."


    She held the information in her hands, feeling it was heavy but full of power. This was Shao Ting''s trust in her.


    She looked up at Lu Nianzhi, her eyes full of confidence and fortitude.


    "Sister Nianzhi, please pay more attention to the timeline of this endorsement process. This is very important for Mn Fragrance."


    It was also very important to her.


    Hope.


    These were two words that carried a lot of weight.


    She didn''t want to fail Shao Ting''s care and trust for her.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. She of course understood what this endorsement meant to Rong Dai.


    "Now you don''t care what others say about you relying on connections?"


    She put away the documents and tablet, her tone teasing as she asked Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. "No."


    "That''s good then."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, then slid the tablet to nce at the memos. "Ran Yu wille over for an interview in a bit."


    "Do you want to arrange for her to meet you in your office or the conference room?"


    Rong Dai did not forget about this. Now the situation was in Mn Fragrance''s favor, so of course they had to seize the opportunity to pursue live streaming.


    "Have here to my office first. Then arrange for her to meet other people in the conference room for different opinions and better selection."


    "No problem!"


    Lu Nianzhi nodded and left with the files.


    Rong Dai looked over the data for a while, and deliberately went online to learn about the Hope series jewelry while also taking a look at Huo��s Hope Project webpage. Seeing the smiling faces of children from mountain areas on the webpage, Rong Dai increasingly felt the weightiness of this endorsement.


    She finally came back to her senses when there was a knock on her office door.


    "Come in!"


    "Ms. Rong."


    Ran Yu called out a little awkwardly as she stood by the chair, very nervous with eyes darting around to look at her. There was expectation, and fear.


    Rong Dai looked up at her. Although there was no displeasure on her face, Ran Yu��s condition...


    "Have a seat first. Would you like something to drink?"


    She spoke gently and pleasantly.


    Ran Yu gripped her bag strap tightly and sat down apprehensively.


    "N-no need, I..."


    "Don''t be nervous. Sister Jing told me about your condition already."


    "The reason I wanted to meet you is because I wanted to confirm whether you still have the ability and courage to face live streaming."


    Rong Dai looked straight into her eyes. Her words were light but carried authority.

 Chapter 456: A Trump Card

    <h4>Chapter 456</h4>


    Ran Yu was taken aback, and the nervousness on her beautiful face gradually eased, and her grip on the bag strap loosened.


    "Can I have a ss of warm water?"


    Rong Dai nodded and pressed the inte button, instructing Ran Jing to bring a ss of warm water.


    Ran Yu held the water and drank it in small sips. The office became quiet for about half a minute before Ran Yu finally put the cup down.


    Then she took a prepared document from her bag and handed it to Rong Dai. "Sister has told me about this matter, so... I made this document overnight."


    "I''m familiar with the anchor industry, and my professional abilities are not a problem."


    "Although the incident two years ago was partly the other party''s fault, I, as an anchor, handled it improperly."


    "I have reflected on myself over the past two years, and I won''t make the same mistake again."


    "Ms. Rong, I really hope to have this opportunity."


    Ran Yu looked up at her, gradually gaining confidence from her initial nervousness.


    Rong Dai looked at the document, and Ran Yu had prepared it in great detail.


    "Ms. Rong, please rest assured that my sister didn''t disclose any product information to me. Ipared yesterday''s print advertisement and wrote this myself."


    "My sister has worked hard these past two years, and although my hands may not be as beautiful as yours, they are still well maintained."


    Ran Yu was eager to impress, so she extended her hand for Rong Dai to see.


    Rong Dai put down the document and scrutinized her.


    "Your manuscript is well-written, and I believe you realize your professional mistake from two years ago."


    "But you have been away from this tform for two years, and I need you to prove your abilities to me."


    Although Ran Yu seemed to have good overall conditions, Rong Dai wouldn''t easily agree to it.


    This concerned the future of theirpany, Mu Lan Xiang.


    "Thispany is not just my dream, but also the dream of others."


    "In the conference roomter, treat it as if it were a live broadcast room and do a live demonstration of this product."


    Rong Dai looked at her and opened a drawer, taking out a sample that was stored there and handing it to her.


    "Alright... Alright."


    Nervously, Ran Yu took the product, unable to help but swallow her saliva.


    "So, whether I can sign you or not, the decision is in your hands."


    "Go outside and take a rest and adjust yourself. I will have the conference room set up."


    Rong Dai instructed her, and only after Ran Yu left did she allow Lu Nianzhi toe in and give her some instructions.


    Thirty minutester, everyone had gathered in the conference room.


    The main position was reserved for Ran Yu, and Rong Dai requested everyone to take note of the strengths and weaknesses of Ran Yu''s live broadcast.


    "Is fifteen minutes enough?"


    Rong Dai nced at her wristwatch, asking her.


    Ran Yu swallowed her saliva. "Yes, it''s... it''s enough."


    "Sister Yu,e on! Don''t be nervous. You can do it!"


    Huo Mei Shu whispered, encouraging her.


    "Excuse me, is Ms. Rong here?"


    Just as Ran Yu sat down, someone knocked on the doorframe of the conference room.


    "That''s me. Who are you?"


    Rong Dai sat in the corner, holding a notebook and preparing to take notes. Upon hearing the voice, she looked up.


    "I''m Zong Che, Mr. Huo''s assistant, who was dispatched to assist Miss Lu."


    Zong Che had a pleasant voice, towering stature, and a handsome appearance. Dressed in a well-fitted suit, it was difficult to believe that he was an assistant.


    Rong Dai recalled her request to Huo Shaoting a couple of days ago, asking for assistance. She hadn''t expected him to send someone so quickly.


    She was unaware of Zong Che''s fame, but Ran Jing knew.


    Zong Che, the director of the Marketing and Public Rtions Department of Huo Entertainment, which was under the Huo Corporation.


    He had started as a low-level assistant, worked his way up to be a top-tier talent agent, and now held the prestigious position of the director of the entertainment industry at Huo Entertainment.


    To think that Huo Shaoting would entrust such an important position to him!

 Chapter 457: Signed to Dye the Rain

    <h4>Chapter 457</h4>


    Lu Nianzhi was just as surprised as Ran Jing.


    She looked at Rong Dai, her eyes filled withplicated emotions of gratitude and self-reproach.


    Rong Dai gave her a reassuring look, instructing everyone else to focus their attention on Ran Yu.


    She beckoned Zong Che over to take a seat next to her.


    "I''m very pleased you''ll be working here. You''ll have to work hard from now on."


    Although she didn''t know Zong Che''s background, Gu Xiaosi wouldn''t arrange just anyone to be with her.


    "I''ll do my job well, don''t worry Ms. Rong." Zong Che nodded.


    "Since you''re here now, let''s watch Ms. Ran''s performance together."


    "Thepany has already put out print ads, next is the livestream."


    Rong Dai briefly exined the situation.


    Zong Che nodded in acknowledgement, taking out a tablet from his briefcase, his expression serious as he looked towards Ran Yu.


    The sudden addition of a stranger to the office added pressure for Ran Yu.


    Ran Yu took a deep breath to steady her emotions. When Rong Dai said to begin, Ran Yu breathed deeply before entering livestream mode.


    At first, Ran Yu was very nervous, only hitting her stride after three minutes.


    She had a strong foundation in the Chinesenguage. For a 15 minute livestream, it wasn''t perfect, but it was still excellent.


    Overall Rong Dai was quite satisfied.


    Sitting next to her, Zong Che nced at his tablet, his gaze piercing as he looked at Ran Yu.


    "Ms. Ran Yu, I have a question for you."


    As soon as he spoke, Ran Yu immediately tensed up again.


    "If you were to encounter a simr livestreaming situation from two years ago, how would you handle it?"


    Zong Che asked very seriously.


    This was also something Rong Dai wanted to know.


    Admitting one''s mistakes wasn''t difficult, the hard part was correcting them.


    "I..."


    Ran Yu was nervous, with memories of what happened two years ago shing through her mind.


    Zong Che didn''t rush her. The office was quiet for two to three minutes.


    "First, I would sternly point out his offense."


    "Second, I would continue the livestream."


    "Third, after the livestream ends I would have my assistant resolve the matter."


    A few minutester, Ran Yu finally dared to look Zong Che in the eye to respond.


    "Very good."


    Zong Che nodded, taking notes on his tablet.


    "I won''t deny Ms. Ran Yu that your mastery of the Chinesenguage is considerable, but when introducing products, what we need is pragmatism, not excessive ornate rhetoric."


    Ran Yu''s face instantly paled, nervously fiddling with her bag strap again.


    "Ms. Rong, based on this livestream..."


    "Although Ms. Ran Yu still has many ws, if she''s willing to work hard, thepany signing her on wouldn''t be an issue."


    Rong Dai wasn''t an expert in this area. She listened to Zong Che''s advice.


    She looked towards Ran Yu, "I look forward to your future performances."


    Ran Yu was stunned, then after a few seconds burst into tears of joy, bowing to Rong Dai to express her gratitude.


    Rong Dai looked at her, her tone still serious and solemn. "This is just preliminary approval of you. If in the future you fail to meet requirements, I will fire you all the same."


    "Even if Jing Jie is at thepany."


    "I understand! I will work hard!"


    Ran Yu hurriedly wiped her tears away, her sweet face showing a mix of crying andughing emotions.


    "I will start training as soon as possible, to get Ms. Ran Yu adapted to the livestreaming format as quickly as possible."


    "For thepany''s tform, I want a promotional strategy proposal this afternoon."


    Zong Che''s gaze precisely fell upon Huo Mei Shu and Long Hang.


    Clearly he had done his homework beforeing.


    Rong Dai really liked Zong Che''s style of decisive action. She instantly felt much more at ease.

 Chapter 458: Insured for a hundred million

    <h4>Chapter 458</h4>


    After Ranyu signed the contract, Zongche also started to take over matters of thepany, and he brought two assistants with him.


    Magnolia Fragrance''s office suddenly took on some professional airs.


    After the meeting ended, Lu Nianzhi entered her office and closed both the door and blinds.


    Rong Dai watched her sit down before saying, "Sister Nianzhi, I hope you don''t mind this arrangement."


    Lu Nianzhi smiled and shook her head. "How could I?"


    She sighed lightly. "I''m very clear about my own condition. Thepany is at a critical moment right now. With Zongche here, I can feel at ease too."


    Rong Dai didn''t exin. They were all smart people, some things could be understood without saying.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll resolve this matter as soon as I can."


    "For work matters, I will cooperate with Zongche. Thank you, Rong Dai."


    A trace of fatigue permeated Lu Nianzhi''s tone.


    "Sister Nianzhi, don''t put too much pressure on yourself. Things can always be resolved."


    Rong Dai didn''t know whatfort to offer her, she could only say this most useless line.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded, then left the office shortly after.


    On Magnolia Fragrance''s side, with Zongche''s addition, since he was familiar with the domestic market and familiar with PR tactics, his executive ability was extremely efficient and precise.


    Under his direction that day, Magnolia Fragrance rolled out print ads and conducted multiple rounds of promotions.


    Any maliciousmentary was quickly dealt with.


    Magnolia Fragrance''s ount became unusually quiet.


    Regarding preparations for Ranyu to take up her post, Zongche was precise down to the details of how she spoke and even her speech patterns.


    Zongche''s addition injected vitality into Magnolia Fragrance. Under his supervision, after several rounds of screening, thepany also recruited some new people.


    It was as if Magnolia Fragrance hade alive all at once, everything operated in orderly steps.


    And since Ningyue Fashion lost momentum from the print ad rollout, they promoted even harder.


    The level of buzz around both was about equal.


    These past few days, Rong Dai felt very rxed because Zongche was highly capable, spurring the entirepany''s work state.


    She spent almost all her time on design, not just jewelry pieces but also starting the designs for apparel.


    "Boss Rong, do you have time now? I need to brief you on your schedule arrangements," Zongche said as he knocked on the door and entered.


    These past few days he had taken over all the work Lu Nianzhi had been handling, getting up to speed very quickly.


    Rong Dai put down her pen to signal him to sit.


    "Tomorrow morning at 9, we need to go to the hotel toplete the signing ceremony for the endorsement contract with Huo''s Jewelry and the Hope series."


    "In the afternoon there will be a photoshoot for print ads at the Huo studio, as well as filming a documentary promo."


    "Looking at your schedule, the 16th to 18th you''ll need to attend the princess'' publicity events."


    "The documentary requires location shooting, it''s a four day trip, we''ll be going to the southwest region, so I scheduled the 20th as our departure date."


    Zongche didn''t waste a single word, handing over the schedule for her perusal, everything arranged appropriately.


    Rong Dai took a quick look at the arrangements and nodded. "It''s fine as long as you''ve arranged it properly."


    Zongche took back his tablet, his gaze falling on her hands, then he pulled out an insurance policy from the documents.


    "This is the insurance for your hands that Chairman Huo instructed to purchase, in addition, you may need to participate in the documentary filming yourself this time."


    "Other than a doctor and necessary maintenance products, do you need anything else?"


    Her hands were precious goods, this was something Chairman Huo had told him early on.


    Rong Dai looked at the insurance policy, Huo Shao Ting had purchased 100 million yuan in coverage for her.


    If something went wrong, wouldn''t the insurancepany have to pay out a fortune?

 Chapter 459: Intentional Advance

    <h4>Chapter 459</h4>


    "You can arrange it well, these are basically enough," Rong Dai nodded. Zong Che''s arrangements were veryprehensive.


    Besides, although her hands were precious, they were not so precious that she couldn''t touch anything.


    Zong Che took notes while asking, "I need to be clear about what you can''t do, Miss Rong. Once we get to the filming location, many things can''t be done in time."


    "And the Southwest is mountainous. It''s best if Miss Rong thinks about what you need first so I can arrange it on this side."


    Rong Dai couldn''t think of anything she needed for the moment: "Just these for now. I don''t have any special dietary requirements."


    "I''ll let you know if I have any other requests."


    Zong Che didn''t have any objections left. He went over the itinerary with her before leaving.


    The next morning, Rong Dai arrived at thepany at 7 o''clock. Zong Che brought his team over to do her makeup.


    Half an hourter they left for the contract signing hotel.


    On the way, Rong Dai browsed Weibo and saw the news from Ning Yue Fashion.


    "Ning Yue''s fashion show is today?"


    She asked while looking at the time.


    Lu Nianzhi sat next to her, feeling a little exasperated: "Yes, why do you think President Huo brought the contract signing ceremony forward to today?"


    "It''s to prevent Ning Yue from monopolizing attention."


    "The jewelry endorsement for the Hope series carries a lot of weight. Today''s fashion show by Ning Yue is going to be overshadowed."


    A warm feeling surged in Rong Dai''s heart. The car arrived early at the contract signing hotel.


    Through the car window, Rong Dai saw the huge crowd of media outside.


    Zong Che escorted Rong Dai to the waiting room to rest first, along with his assistants and bodyguards. He went to confirm with the Huo Group executives.


    "I really want to go to Ning Yue''s fashion show right now and see Shi Ning''s expressionter!"


    Lu Nianzhi stayed with her in the waiting room, carefully adjusting her skirt.


    Rong Dai nced at her: "Sister Nianzhi, when did you be so gossipy?"


    "I''ve just never seen such a nasty person, stepping on you for so long without knowing when to stop."


    "President Huo''s p is loud, of course I want to see."


    The two waited quietly in the waiting room for notice. Meanwhile, the inte was boiling again!


    In order to grab attention, Ning Yue Fashion divided its fashion show into morning and afternoon sessions.


    So the news was flying all over the ce first thing in the morning.


    It had steadily ranked at the top of trending searches, but was pressed down by "#Who will be the ambassador for the Hope jewelry series#".


    "Boss Shi, our trending topic isn''t going up."


    At Ning Yue''s fashion show venue, an assistant held up her phone to show Shi Ning.


    "It''s just some charity jewelry, can''t we just buy our way up?"


    "Do I need to teach you this?"


    Shi Ning was displeased. She certainly knew about the endorsement for this jewelry series. The ambassadors were all veteran seniors in the industry each year.


    What was there to look forward to? She really didn''t know what was wrong with the media, were they blind?


    The assistant was embarrassed: "We spent money, but the other party didn''t ept it. They said they won''t take it."


    Shi Ningughed at that: "Won''t ept it? How little have they taken?"


    The assistant didn''t dare chime in. Shi Ning''s attention was all on the catwalk, impatiently instructing: "Then look into exactly when the contract signing is, and drag the big show until after they finish signing. This show must top the trending chart!"


    The assistant had no choice but to reluctantly agree. This series sold the best every year, the topic was unlikely to be disced...


    Shi Ning didn''t care about any of that. She had to ensure the sess of the big show, so would absolutely not allow anything to disrupt it.

 Chapter 460: Is there a problem with the Boss鈥檚 endorsement

    <h4>Chapter 460</h4>


    However, what Shi Ning did not know was that this hot search Huo Shao Ting had already bought out.


    The news of Ningyue Fashion was destined to only rank second.


    In the hotel, Zong Che made sure that Rong Dai did note out of the rest room until exactly 8:50.


    Rong Dai was wearing a retro long dress with her hair simply pinned up and inserted with Magnolia Fragrance''s new hairpin.


    She had an elegant and graceful temperament. As soon as she came out, all the cameras in the venue were aimed at her!


    "Isn''t this Rong Dai?"


    "Is the Huo family going to have their president''s wife endorse them?"


    "Isn''t today Ningyue Fashion''s big show? Is the signing ceremony for the Hope Series deliberately brought forward?"


    The media who attended the event were very surprised to see Rong Daie out!


    Some people smelled gunpowder and the shes at the scene became even more frequent.


    The signing ceremony had not yet begun, but the news that Rong Dai had be the endorsement model for the Hope Series jewelry was already on the hot search.


    As soon as the news came out, the terrifying speed of 170,000ments in one minute pressed down the news of Ningyue Fashion''s fashion show!


    "I didn''t expect the Huo family to be so despicable!"


    When Shi Ning saw the hot search, she was furious on the spot and smashed the tablet in her hand into two halves!


    "President Shi, should we postpone the big show?"


    The assistant asked gingerly as he saw her get angry.


    Shi Ning''s face was unhappy. Looking at the prepared catwalk and the guests who had been waiting for a long time, the top of today''s hot search was definitely not going to happen.


    "Let''s start."


    The assistant breathed a sigh of relief and hurriedly went to make arrangements.


    On the hotel side, it was Rong Dai''s first time attending such an event, especially one rted to the Huo family. Although she looked calm on the surface, she was still a little nervous inside!


    "It''s actually President Huo who came in person?"


    "This couple is going to show off their lovey-dovey rtionship!"


    Suddenly some media spoke up and Rong Dai looked over in the direction of the voice.


    She saw Huo Shao Ting wearing a retro tailored suit in the same color as her long dress. His face was as cold as usual, and he strode over with bodyguards and Zhang the assistant behind him.


    The media on site immediately erupted!


    The Hope Series jewelry itself was highly anticipated. This time, not only did the Huo family use their president''s wife as the endorser, but even the signing ceremony was attended by Huo Shao Ting himself.


    This was big news!


    Cameras kept shing at the scene. The host was very experienced and created a great atmosphere.


    Rong Dai had a faint smile on her face. Huo Shao Ting stood beside her and took the initiative to put his arm around her slender waist.


    The host was very good at energizing the atmosphere. The three mediapanies in the front row were given the right to ask questions.


    "President Huo, may I ask why you attended the signing ceremony for the Hope Series today? Is it because the spokesperson is Madam Huo?"


    The first media outlet excitedly asked the question.


    Because Rong Dai was by his side, Huo Shao Ting''s face was not as cold. He looked approvingly at the reporter.


    "The Hope Series is very important. As the president of thepany, is there anything wrong with me attending the event?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s reply was very official.


    But his gaze just now had exined everything.


    "President Huo, how did the Hope Seriese to decide to sign a contract with Rong Dai this time? The previous contracted spokespersons were all seniors with more experience."


    The next reporter asked.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at him, then looked at Rong Dai beside him with a doting and gentle gaze.


    "This is Huo''s brand. It makes sense for Huo''sdy boss to endorse it, doesn''t it?"


    Huo Shao Ting retorted with a question.


    Things like seniority did not exist for him.


    The reporter was stunned for a moment.


    That did seem...reasonable!


    "President Huo, in recent times, your wife''spany Magnolia Fragrance has beenpeting fiercely with Ningyue Fashion, a subsidiary of Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    "With Ningyue Fashion having the advantage, may I ask if bringing the Hope Series signing ceremony forward earlier was to help your wife?"


    Although the third reporter''s question was tactful, the essence of it was very sharp.


    The cameras were all aimed at the couple. Although everyone knew the answer in their hearts, they still wanted to hear Huo Shao Ting''s response even more.

 Chapter 461: Husband and Wife Cooperate, Work is not tired

    <h4>Chapter 461</h4>


    <Huo Shao Ting> looked at the reporter without even considering and replied, "Who do you think canpete with the wife of <Huo''s Enterprise>''s CEO?"


    The questioning reporter was stunned for a moment, feeling like there was nothing wrong with this answer.


    Putting other things aside, <Rong Dai>''s identity as the wife of <Huo''s Enterprise>''s CEO was enough to crush <Shi Ning>.


    Who could stillpete with her?


    <Huo Shao Ting> had pressed to death all three questions from the scene with three consecutive counter-questions.


    As soon as these three counter-question answers came out, it immediately ranked second on the hot search, with <Shi Ning>''s Ning Yue Fashion ranking third.


    "Mrs. Huo, could you say a few words?"


    "As we all know, the endorsement value of the <Hope Series Jewelry> is very important."


    "As the wife of <Huo''s Enterprise>''s CEO and also the endorser, what are your thoughts?"


    The reporters on the scene were unable to get any explosive news from <Huo Shao Ting>, so they turned their sights to <Rong Dai>.


    <Rong Dai> nced at <Huo Shao Ting> beside her, feeling the warmth of his palm, which eased her nervousness considerably.


    She revealed an elegant smile on her face, looking straight at the media on the scene, "First of all, I''m very happy to be able to participate in such a meaningful charity event. Thank <Huo''s Enterprise> for giving me this honor."


    "Secondly, as <Huo>''s wife, I will lead by example and work with him to pass on this hope."


    Her answer was clever and official.


    The reporters did not get the answer they wanted, and although they still wanted to ask further questions, the contract signing ceremony was about to begin, so they had to give up for the time being.


    The couple signed the contract and took pictures together.


    The signing ceremony went very smoothly, and <Zong Che> and <Zhang Assistant> took care of the rest. She returned to the dressing room where <Lu Nianzhi> immediately came up to her holding her phone.


    "<Shi Ning>''s nose must be crooked with anger this time!"


    "She was obsessed with upying the top spot on the hot search rankings, but Boss Huo''s move was ruthless! He kicked her straight out of the top ten!"


    Because of <Shi Ning>''s deliberate move to sign <Ling Yan> as the endorser, <Lu Nianzhi> waspletely resentful of her.


    She was happy whenever she saw news that was unfavorable to Ning Yue.


    <Rong Dai> said helplessly, "Sister Nianzhi, we still have to go shoot the print ads in the afternoon."


    <Lu Nianzhi> nodded, put away her phone, and tidied up the things in the dressing room, preparing to take her away.


    Just as the two of them were about to leave, the door to the dressing room opened.


    <Huo Shao Ting> walked in, holding the coat prepared for her, and went forward to put it on her.


    "You go busy yourself, I''ll take her there."


    He instructed <Lu Nianzhi>.


    <Lu Nianzhi> smiled meaningfully, looked at <Rong Dai>, then carried her things and left.


    "I''m not cold, the weather today is very warm."


    Seeing him bundling her up tightly, <Rong Dai> was somewhat amused, but her heart felt very warm.


    "You say you''re not cold, yet your hands are so cold. Next time, tell <Lu Nianzhi> to always prepare a hot water bottle for you to warm your hands when youe down."


    <Huo Shao Ting> frowned and held her hands to warm them up for her.


    "Mm..."


    <Rong Dai> softly responded with a sound, looking at his face and asked, "You did that on purpose today, you don''t actually have to."


    "Why don''t I have to? She bullied you for so long, today is just a warning to her."


    <Huo Shao Ting> looked up at her with an expression that was both stern and icy cold.


    <Rong Dai> was helpless. She had promised him not to stop him from being good to her.


    "Are you not busy this afternoon?"


    "No, I''ll be shooting the print ads with you this time."


    <Rong Dai> was stunned for a moment: "Hasn''t it always been a solo endorsement?"


    "Silly girl, haven''t you heard of couples working together makes the job less tiring?"


    <Huo Shao Ting> smiled lightly and reached out to tidy the loose strands of hair by her ears.


    <Rong Dai> looked into his eyes, and her eyes suddenly turned red.


    How could she not understand his intentions?


    If she had taken on this endorsement but then messed up, it would ruin the reputation that the <Hope Series> had built up all this time.


    She would be pushed into the eye of the storm.


    But with him participating, even if she did mess up, no one would dare say half a word, unless they wanted to go bankrupt.

 Chapter 462: One Wedding Photo Missing

    <h4>Chapter 462</h4>


    "Thank you, Shao Ting," Rong Dai reached out and hugged his waist, whispering softly in his embrace.


    "I just want to be with you. This time, during the documentary shoot, I will go with you."


    "Do you remember when I had someone investigate the jade pendant? Huang, the expert from the southwest, discovered something."


    Huo Shao Ting held her close, lightly kissing her hair so as not to smudge her makeup.


    Upon hearing his words, Rong Dai stiffened, looking up at him. "What did they find?"


    "Don''t worry, it''s just some cultural relics."


    "It''s nothing particrly significant, just something rted to you that I want to understand," Huo Shao Ting reassured her.


    But regardless of its importance, he was well aware in his own heart.


    Despite the profound words spoken by the venerable monk in the temple, he had never felt at ease.


    Since she was able toe here under certain circumstances, it was possible that she would return under certain circumstances as well.


    He had to figure out what those circumstances were.


    Although Rong Dai appeared rxed on the surface, the long-held unease resurfaced in her heart.


    Her panic was not about not knowing enough about this world.


    Rather, it was about whether she would return to Shangyuan.


    If she went back, what would be of Shao Ting?


    These were two different timelines, so how could she find him?


    Huo Shao Ting was perceptive, and even though she didn''t say it, he could sense her emotions.


    "Don''t worry, as long as you exist, no matter what happens in the future, I will find you."


    "Trust me."


    He held her and nted a kiss on her forehead.


    Listening to his voice, Rong Dai felt a little reassured.


    The couple then left the dressing room, with Huo Shao Ting already having made a reservation at a restaurant.


    After having lunch together, they headed to the Huo Studio for the photo shoot.


    Seeing the couple arrive on time, the makeup artist immediately went to work on both of them.


    Since it was a couple''s shoot, the photography requirements were rtively high.


    And this was the first time the Hope series had a couple''s campaign, so the photographer took some time to prepare.


    The couple''s feelings didn''t need much exnation; they understood each other with just a slight gesture.


    Therefore, the shoot went very smoothly.


    "It''s like shooting wedding photos!"


    When Rong Dai descended from the tform, Lu Nianzhi quickly handed her a ss of water and couldn''t help but say.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. "Nianzhi, don''t talk nonsense. This is serious."


    "I''m not talking nonsense. Look for yourself."


    Lu Nianzhi smiled with her eyes and motioned for her to turn around.


    Rong Dai was puzzled but turned around to look.


    She saw that Huo Shao Ting had changed into another suit and the assistant in the studio was holding a brand-new wedding dress, looking at Rong Dai with envy.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed, and her heart skipped a beat.


    "Shao Ting, what is this?"


    "I feel like our home is missing a set of our wedding photos, and today is just right for taking them."


    "Huo Madam, do you mind?"


    Huo Shao Ting walked over, softly exining while supporting her delicate waist.


    A tender feeling filled Rong Dai''s heart. He always remembered what she wanted.


    "Of course not."


    She smiled and shook her head, tears glistening in her beautiful eyes.


    "Mr. Huo, can I make this trend on social media?"


    Lu Nianzhi held her phone and asked with a hint of meaning, "The photos should look good."


    Huo Shao Ting replied calmly, "Of course, the photos will be beautiful." He then took Rong Dai''s hand and went to take the shots.


    Lu Nianzhi smiled and used the burst mode on her phone to capture multiple photos. She then sent the pictures to Huo Meishu.


    Upon receiving the photos and the voice message sent by Lu Nianzhi, Huo Meishu immediately edited them with Long Hang and posted a nine-gridyout.

 Chapter 463: The Fashion Show That Went Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 463</h4>


    As soon as the photo grid was posted, it quickly made it to the top searches.


    The top ten searches were all rted to Rong Dai and her husband, while Ning Yue Fashion''s searches remained low, at the bottom of the pot.


    When Shi Ning saw these top searches, she was so angry her nose was crooked!


    "Madame Shi, we made it to the top searches..."


    As she was furious, her assistant came over with her phone, but spoke very carefully.


    "It should have made it there long ago! What''s so surprising about that? Let me see, this fashion show was very sessful, if it wasn''t for that shabby Mn Fragrancepany, the poprity would have gone up another level!"


    "You tell the sales department to make sure the data ispiled properly, it will need to be publishedter on."


    Shi Ning went from angry to happy, and grabbed the phone from her hand.


    The assistant didn''t dare say anything, and silently took two steps back.


    "Bastard!"


    Shi Ning was instantly furious, her eyes were on fire!


    "Who the hell posted this?!"


    The scared assistant shuddered and said with a pale face: "I don''t know, I''ve had people look into it already."


    "It''s already spreading wildly online, Madame Shi, how should we handle this?"


    Shi Ning''s face was ashen: "Investigate! Have the PR department do PR!"


    "Also, regarding what I had you look intost time, it can be released now."


    The assistant was stunned for a moment, and hesitantly asked: "But is doing that really okay? After all, he''s the second young master, if..."


    "I told you to do it so do it, where are all these questionsing from?"


    Shi Ning was hopping mad, and looking at thements fromizens below the Weibo post, her eyes turned red from anger!


    "This is hrious, what kind of freak came up with this title?"


    "Fashion Extravaganza Transformed into Vige Meeting, Ning Yue Fashion''s Puzzling Fashion Show."


    Huo Mei Shu and a few others in Mn Fragrance were staring at theputer screen.


    As soon as Ning Yue Fashion''s news came out, the office knew about it.


    "But this title is actually quite urate, what kind of ghosts are these colorful things anyway?"


    "Is this Shi Ning''s level now?"


    Song Xuechun and a few others stared at the screen and couldn''t help but discuss.


    "Regardless of her level, Ning Yue Fashion''s fashion show was a flop this time!"


    Huo Mei Shu scoffed coldly, extremely happy about Ning Yue Fashion''s misfortune today!


    "I thought with all the effort Ning Yue put into promotions, the effect would be shockingly good!"


    "After all, Shi Ning used to work at Brocade Mansion, the style of this fashion show is way below Brocade Mansion''s standards!"


    "Also, with these leaked designs, other than some small modifications, don''t you feel like there''s no real innovation with Ning Yue''s clothing?"


    "For example, here''s a few videos I found of past Brocade Mansion fashion shows..."


    Song Xuechun opened her tablet with a slight frown and handed it to the others.


    "It''s not that there''s no innovation, these clothes were used in Brocade Mansion''s past fashion shows, just earlier ones."


    "Back then Brocade Mansion wasn''t that famous yet, you can still find videos of it, Shi Ning is really shameless."


    Ran Jing chuckled lightly, then handed over the information she had gathered.


    "This really is..."


    The others looked at the materials and madeparisons, feeling quite surprised at Shi Ning''s actions.


    "But it makes sense if you think about it, even though Ning Yue is a subsidiary of Brocade Mansion."


    "But now Shi Ning has to build up her own achievements, she spent all her time on promotions, probably didn''t have time to design."


    "These works are from Ning Yue''s early days, now with some added elements, they were originally Brocade Mansion''s."


    "And not many people know about it, even if they recognize them, there''s not much to say."


    Ran Jing exined, and saw Ji Zheng out of the corner of her eye as he walked by with a ss of water. She leaned against the edge of the table blocking his way.

 Chapter 464: Bully the Dead

    <h4>Chapter 464</h4>


    "Lawyer Ji, do you really not care at all about Miss Shi''s matters?"


    Ran Jing looked at him with a smile in her eyes that contained a hint of sharpness.


    Ji Zheng''s footsteps halted for a moment: "Sister Ran, my job is just legal affairs, I''m not involved in anything else."


    "And like I''ve said before, her matters have nothing to do with me."


    "Really? Don''t you want to take a look at Shi Ning''s designs for this fashion show before you say that to me again?"


    Ran Jing raised an eyebrow as Song Xuechun immediately handed the materials over.


    "Do you think I''ve really forgotten about little Ruo after all these years?"


    "I remember very clearly what her designs were like back when she didn''t listen to my advice and took your grandmother as her teacher instead."


    "Ji Zheng, she''s dead. Does Jinxiufang still not let her rest in peace?"


    "Bullying a dead person who can''t speak up anymore, is that it?"


    "If you don''t deal with this matter, I will. And I hope you can say that sentence again afterwards."


    Ran Jing''s attitude suddenly took a 180 degree turn, mming the materials onto Ji Zheng''s chest.


    Her usual gentle demeanor had turned cold and hard.


    In an instant, the other people in the office were looking at the two of them, not daring to speak, also unclear about what had happened.


    Ji Zheng''s expression changed as he picked up the materials to look through.


    When he saw the works inside, his gaze became extremely sinister.


    "Ji Zheng..."


    "I''ll take care of this matter."


    Not waiting for Ran Jing to speak, Ji Zheng opened his mouth, clutching the materials until they crumpled.


    "Brother Ji, Sister Ran, quickly look at Weibo!"


    The newly recruited employee Shi Qing suddenly shouted.


    Everyone looked over to see the video on theputer screen, and their expressions changed.


    "This must have been done by Shi Ning!"


    Huo Mei Shu was so angry her face turned green as she mmed her fist on the table.


    "First, send someone to investigate clearly. Xuechun, call Nian Zhi and Zong Che and have them pay attention to Dai''s security."


    Ran Jing''s expression was even colder than before as she swiftly instructed several people.


    "Ji Zheng, this still isn''t your business?"


    After speaking, she didn''t bother with Ji Zheng''s expression and immediately began handling the matter.


    At the Huo photography studio, Lu Nianzhi received the news and was so angry she almost exploded!


    The video on Weibo showed Rong Dai chatting andughing with Ji Zheng. Due to the editing, it made people mistakenly think the two were very intimate.


    It also exined the rtionship between Ji Zheng and Shi Ning.


    Shi Ning''s fans and inte water army immediately seized the advantage and recklessly smeared Rong Dai and Ji Zheng''s rtionship, even letting their imaginations run wild.


    Some cluelessizens were also instigated to jump on the bandwagon. Added to Rong Dai''s unexpected endorsement for the Hope jewelry series this time, she was immediately pushed into the eye of public opinion.


    Lu Nianzhi was practically going crazy with anger!


    Seeing the married couple happily taking wedding photos, she came over with a dark expression to inform them of the news.


    When Rong Dai saw the video, she felt extremely speechless.


    She didn''t expect Shi Ning to be so despicable as to even use her own brother like this.


    "Little Teng..."


    Seeing Huo Shaoteng''s unpleasant expression, Rong Dai wasn''t worried that he would suspect anything between her and Ji Zheng, but rather that anyone would feel unhappy seeing those words online.


    What did they mean she was cheating on her new husband? Having secret trysts?


    Did the people posting the news not have brains? A simple check would reveal Huo Shaoteng''s rtionship with Ji Zheng.


    "It''s nothing." Huo Shaoteng held her by the waist, his gaze very cold. He then instructed Assistant Zhang to do a few things.

 Chapter 465: I Can鈥檛 Stand It

    <h4>Chapter 465</h4>


    No matter whether the people releasing the news had brains or not, as soon as this news came out, #Rong Dai cheating when with Shi Ning# quickly took the top spot on the hot search ranking.


    And Ningyue Fashion''s "countryside grand show" was sessfully suppressed downwards.


    Rong Dai had made preparations early on that Shi Ning would sabotage things, she just hadn''t expected the other party to be nasty to this extent.


    Her personal weibo ount had already exploded, in just half an hour, over a hundred thousandments, all of which were cursing her.


    Even Huo''s Enterprise and the Hope Series jewelry had suffered disaster.


    Rong Dai already had a certain level of resilience towards these verbal attacks, she was just particrly remorseful.


    Her reputation had already beenpletely smeared long ago, but indirectly implicating Huo''s Enterprise and Shao Ting was what she was most unwilling to see, and also her bottom line.


    "Zong Che, see if this recording can be put to use."


    She opened her phone, opened her WeChat favorites, and took out the conversation she had recorded previously between her and Shi Ning at the Qiao family home.


    After Zong Che listened to the recording: "It needs some PR maneuvering, but it might not have a huge effect since no one has seen your work yet, so there''s no basis forparison."


    Rong Dai was very clear about this matter, which was why she had endured and not released the recording previously.


    "It doesn''t matter, just handle it however you usually do. I''ll think of another way to deal with the rest."


    Her face was ice-cold as she beckoned to Lu Nianzhi who had an extremely angry expression on her face.


    "Sister Nianzhi, I''ll have to trouble you to head back to Mn Xiang, and find Mei Shu. "


    "I opened some ounts online previously to take onmissions, Mei Shu is clearer on the details, get her to try contacting those buyers."


    "With my embroidery work as a basis forparison, wouldn''t it make things easier to handle?"


    She looked towards Zong Che questioningly.


    "If that''s the case, it would be even better."


    Zong Che nodded, while already starting to get in contact with people to handle things.


    "I''ll go right away!"


    Lu Nianzhi grabbed her bag and walked off.


    She had just exited the photography studio when she collided face first into Xu Chuan.


    Seeing Xu Chuan, her first reaction was to avoid him, she didn''t want to meet this person at all.


    "Nian Nian, I''ll send you. There are all sorts of entertainment reporters outside now, it won''t be convenient for you to head out."


    Xu Chuan quickly grabbed her wrist, his gaze hopeful and worried as he looked at her.


    Lu Nianzhi''s face was ice-coldly pale, she shook off his hand forcefully: "Xu Chuan, have you forgotten what I''ve told you previously?"


    "Miss Lu, Mr Xu is not mistaken, there really are many entertainment reporters outside now. If you head out you''ll definitely be surrounded and obstructed, this is the best method."


    Zhang Assistant had finished handling matters and returned, seeing both of them standing at the exit obstructing the way, he inserted a sentence.


    Looking outside the window at the entertainment reporters packed densely below Huo''s Enterprise Building, Lu Nianzhi hesitated for a moment before shouting impatiently at Xu Chuan: "What are you still waiting for?! Don''t you know I''m in a rush now?"


    Xu Chuan looked gratefully at Zhang Assistant before quickly walking ahead to lead the way.


    Zhang Assistant shook his head and sighed, then headed into the photography studio''s rest area.


    "President, got them all."


    Zhang Assistant passed a USB drive to Zong Che.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at Zong Che icily: "You know what to do."


    "I know." Zong Che nodded, he had worked at Huo''s Enterprise for so long, he was naturally very clear on these methods.


    "What''s inside there?"


    After Zong Che and Zhang Assistant left, Rong Dai asked him while looking at him remorsefully.


    "Things that can ruin her reputation entirely." Huo Shao Ting put his arm around her waist and lowered his head to kiss her hair lightly, his tone extremely merciless.


    "I said I won''t let others bully you."


    "I know you want to get to the root of this, but now that she has ruined your reputation like this, I can''t endure it."

 Chapter 466: Husband first give you a sample

    <h4>Chapter 466</h4>


    Rong Dai nodded. She had been focusing on the design draft these days and didn''t pay attention to Shi Ning''s movements.


    She didn''t expect the other party to y such a hand. Although the matter was not real, Shi Ning''s purpose was achieved.


    The means she knew in her previous life were of no use here.


    No matter from poprity or family background, Shi Ning was much stronger than her. Since the original owner married Huo Shao Ting low-key, she had been ckmailed badly all the way.


    So no matter what she did or said, even breathing was wrong.


    She had originally wanted to wait until she came back from the fashionpetition of The Wing of Fashion in May, and after Magnolia Fragrance was "ted with gold", to start the counterattack.


    But ns couldn��t keep up with changes. She underestimated Shi Ning.


    "Go home first, leave the rest to me."


    "Wife, let me teach you a lesson first so that you know the rules and coping skills of this world in the future." Huo Shao Ting held her distressedly, kissed her hair lightly and whispered.


    Seeing her change of look, Rong Dai forced a smile, then secretly left Huo''s Skyscraper under the escort of bodyguards and returned to Huafu Hill City.


    After Rong Dai returned home, she took a bath first, and thenpleted today''s homework ahead of schedule ording to her daily schedule.


    At eight o''clock in the evening, Huo Shao Ting had not returned home yet. He just called to let her have dinner first by herself.


    There were cooks at home, so Rong Dai didn''t have to cook by herself. After eating a few simple bites, she held herptop on the sofa and browsed the curses ofizens on Weibo.


    Because of Jizheng��s special identity and the editing problem of the small video, she became a "scheming woman" in the eyes ofizens.


    Rong Dai almost wanted tough. If she were really a scheming woman, would she be so passive?


    While browsing Weibo, she received a WeChat message from Huo Shao Ting.


    The message only had three short words: check Weibo.


    She took a look at Weibo again, and the news was still her news.


    She replied to it, and Qiao Wanzhou''s phone call came in immediately.


    "Sister Wanzhou."


    "Open the door, I''m at your door."


    Hearing Qiao Wanzhou speak, Rong Dai hurried up to take a look. It was indeed the couple at the yard gate.


    "Where did your domineering aura when shooting the TV series go? How could you be bullied by Shi Ning like this?"


    As soon as she entered the door, Qiao Wanzhou red at her angrily.


    Rong Dai could only smile bitterly. She had been learning and designing these days, and she also needed to participate in the operation of thepany. Just these things had already kept her busy enough, where would she have the mind to care about Shi Ning��s life and death?


    "Wanzhou, that''s acting. Rongdai can''t use those methods in TV series to deal with people in reality, right?" Zhou Jing helplessly reminded his wife.


    His leg injury was recovering well, but he still needed a crutch.


    "Shut up, what business does a disabled person have here?"


    Qiao Wanzhou stared at him, then asked her assistant to bring in piles of souvenirs: "They are all for you. Use what you like and give away what you don''t like."


    Rong Dai poured water for the couple and saw those piles of gifts on the ground, feeling a little helpless: "Thank you, but you really don''t need to spend so much."


    Qiao Wanzhou took a sip of water and rubbed her slightly bulging belly with one hand: ��Is it expensive to buy you gifts?��


    "When my babyes out, you will know how expensive it is. You can��t escape the responsibility of being his godmother."


    Rong Dai smiled and looked at her belly enviously, carefully asking, ��Can I... touch it?"


    "Why not?" Qiao Wanzhou raised her eyebrows arrogantly with both hands on her hips: "Come on!"

 Chapter 467: Give Her One

    <h4>Chapter 467</h4>


    Rong Daiughed helplessly, and carefully touched it before she dared to continue.


    Zhou Jing was unable to interrupt the two women''s conversation, but his eyes never left Qiao Wanzhou, full of pampering.


    "This time I went abroad is not just for vacation, sister, I''m concerned about you."


    Qiao Wanzhou understood her mood, so she didn''t talk more about the child, and handed over the phone mysteriously.


    Rong Dai was puzzled and forgot to look at Weibo.


    Qiao Wanzhou tapped on the file in her phone, then handed it to her: "Just take a look, I''m afraid it will hurt your eyes."


    She smiled mysteriously and a little slyly. Rong Dai was puzzled, and opened the file.


    Suddenly the living room was filled with a long string of indescribable moans. Rong Dai''s face flushed with embarrassment, and she quickly turned it off, very embarrassed.


    Zhou Jing observed his nose and his heart, pretending he didn''t exist.


    "Sister Wanzhou, you..."


    Qiao Wanzhou took the phone back, turned down the volume, and just showed her the picture.


    "Take a look first and then talk. With President Huo''s figure, it''s obvious at a nce that he doesn''t need me to give you this stuff, right?"


    Speaking, Qiao Wanzhou started the car.


    Rong Dai''s face was red, and the picture was really too spicy for her eyes. But she recognized the person in the video.


    With such a clear picture, she thought it would be hard not to recognize him.


    "Surprised? Those toadies all think Shi Ning is an innocent jade girl. I think she''s more like a lustful woman."


    "This is definitely not photoshopped. She likes to ruin your reputation, so give her one back."


    "I want to see if she can withstand it or not. Jinxiu Embroidery Workshop is awesome, but that was created by Shi Yue, and has nothing to do with her Shi Ning?"


    "Bullying my child''s godmother, this cannot be tolerated."


    Qiao Wanzhou said while touching her belly. Although her tone was rxed, the resentment in her eyes was very strong.


    Rong Dai''s heart warmed. She didn''t expect Qiao Wanzhou to help her like this.


    "If you can''t do it, I can find someone to do it too."


    "I''ll tell you slowlyter about the source of this video. I didn''t expect these young girls to be so vicious when they get vicious."


    "You haven''t done anything to her, yet she''s so arrogant. As expected, a bitch is unreasonable when she''s arrogant!"


    Qiao Wanzhou said angrily.


    Rong Dai took the initiative to hug her shoulders: "Thank you, sister Wanzhou. Don''t get angry, you''re pregnant."


    "I''m angry at you!"


    "Where did your prestige go when you were filming? To be bullied like this without fighting back."


    Qiao Wanzhou stared at her.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, thinking of what Huo Shao Ting had said to her today, he gave her a lesson first.


    "I will in the future."


    This is thest time.


    Then she sent the video to Huo Shao Ting and exined the reason.


    "You can check Weibo first before discussing."


    Zhou Jing looked up at the two to remind them.


    Only then did Rong Dai remember that Huo Shao Ting had asked her to look at Weibo earlier. She hurriedly picked up herptop to refresh Weibo messages.


    Today, whether it was Ning Yue''s grand show or the jewelry endorsement of the Hope series, it was not as eye-catching as the news currently on the hot search!


    #Shi Ning''s addiction to giarism#


    #Shi Ning''s innocent image copsed#


    #Jinxiu Embroidery Workshop forced the popr designer Shu Ruo to death to protect Shi Ning#


    The three striking headlines were followed by mes, steadily ranked among the top three on the hot search list.


    When she clicked on the first one, it was the audio Rong Dai gave to Zong Che first.


    Although there was audio evidence and appraisal reports.


    But Shi Ning''s fans still chose to turn a blind eye and kept brushingments, cursing Rong Dai for trying to force Shi Ning to death, because Shi Ning had already apologized to her.

 Chapter 468: Huo Zong鈥檚 Means

    <h4>Chapter 468</h4>


    "Do Shi Ning''s fans want tough people to death? Can an apology ignore the fact that she giarized and stole other people''s works? Please go back and redo it, okay?"


    "ording to what Shi Ning''s fans say, shouldn''t a murderer who apologized not have to go to jail?"


    "She is a designer! Doesn''t she know that works are a designer''s life? giarizing and stealing are still so righteous. You are awesome!"


    ...


    Although Shi Ning has a huge fan base, the Inte is not only the world of keyboard warriors and crazy fans.


    Those malicious nders against Rong Dai were drowned out by rocket-like replies, reced by usations and questions castigating Shi Ning.


    Three hot search terms, all tagged with Shi Ning.


    Especially the #Shi Ning''s pure image copsed#, which lists the time and ce very carefully, with clear big pictures and videos.


    At first, Shi Ning''s fans could still struggle a bit, but appraisal reports were soon released.


    No one dared to question the authority.


    And PS experts pointed out that the series of explosive pictures and videos quickly tore apart the "pure goddess" mask of Shi Ning!


    The fans couldn''t react to the first and second pieces, and they wanted to struggle with the third piece.


    But before Shi Ning''s fans could react, Ji Zheng''s big V Weibo ount first announced his rtionship with Shu Ruo, with pictures as evidence.


    Ran Jing also followed closely, revealing some of Shu Ruo''s works during her lifetime, and asked Long Hang to edit the fashion show at Shi Ning Yue Fashion Morning to make a short video.


    Ji Zheng''s long article carefully recalled his rtionship with Shu Ruo, and also released evidence that he had left the Ji family to strike out on his own many years ago.


    A few Weibos were posted instantly, instantly silencing Shi Ning''s fans, who didn''t even dare fart when pulled out byizens to take a walk and question.


    Seeing the development go awry, the fan club president could only quietly go offline to contact Shi Ning''s assistant.


    The assistant didn''t dare answer the president''s call!


    Shi Ning herself was now frowning at Weibo. Things developed so quickly that there was simply no time for PR!


    Moreover, even the authoritative appraisal report came out. Shi Ning wanted to deny but couldn''t deny the facts.


    giarism, copsed image, causing death due to giarism.


    Any one of them alone would be enough to ruin Shi Ning forever!


    Rong Dai looked at the meticulous data on Weibo and thought, if Zhao Ting had this information from the beginning, he wouldn''t have waited until now, given his personality.


    It was clearly not easy to collect this information.


    "She was being cautious. Otherwise, why would there be no negative news about her online? Look at the ces she went. They were all abroad."


    "Besides, foreign media doesn''t pay attention to Brocade Embroidery Workshop. The only person they know abroad is Shi Yue. Who even knows who Shi Ning is?"


    Seeing what she was thinking, Qiao Wanzhou exined while eating fruit.


    "Take a careful look at Mr. Huo''s methods. Do as he does in the future, don''t let others bully you so much. Even I feel wronged watching."


    She couldn''t help but roll her eyes at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai nodded seriously: "It won''t happen again. This is thest time."


    She had wallowed in self-pity enough and understood enough.


    The two leaned against each other and continued watching Weibo, which was very hot.


    But just as Shi Ning''s fans thought the three pieces of information were vicious enough, new information came up.


    This time it was the news that Zong Che released through the Magnolia Fragrance public WeChat ount.


    The woman in the video was the female employee who had worked at TK before. She couldn''t speak Chinese, but there was an interpreter on site, with subtitles.


    It fully andpletely described the process of recing Rong Dai''s entry with detail.


    It also exined why she agreed to make this recording - because she was fired by TK and faced highpensation, she hoped the Huo Group could help her.

 Chapter 469: Please Wake Up

    <h4>Chapter 469</h4>


    The female employee was also smart enough. Since it was an inside job, there were no video recordings in the warehouse at that time.


    However, she was prudent and recorded it on her phone, and leaked out the recovered information.


    It dispelled the sophistry of the TK side and Shi Ning at that time.


    Brocade Embroidery Workshop had just managed to get away from the stormy waves. With this leak, it was dragged back again. Its stock price plummeted sharply. An emergency shareholders meeting was immediately convened.


    And what about Shi Ning?


    She still wanted to struggle in desperation and immediately called the phone numbers of several familiar water army leaders, asking them to discredit Rong Dai all over the Inte no matter how high the price was.


    "Miss Shi, I''m begging you to calm down!"


    "The leaks online now are all real evidence. It looks more like you who should be discredited!"


    "Don''t contact me anymore! You murderer! giarist!"


    The water army leader still had some integrity and refuted Shi Ning directly, while spraying her with criticism!


    "Bastard! How dare you hang up my phone!"


    Seeing the call being hung up, Shi Ning was so angry that her face turned green!


    The assistant stood two to three meters away from her, shivering and not daring to say a word.


    She had warned before that Rong Dai''s works could not be used. Although they had been slightly modified, the main content was not changed.


    Moreover, theparison video montage online was very deliberate. Even people who did not understand could see at a nce that this was the same piece of work.


    Especially now that the Second Young Master himself had spoken, could this incident still be turned over?


    The assistant was thinking when two policemen walked into the rest room.


    Seeing the police, the assistant was so frightened that her legs turned soft.


    "Ms. Shi is suspected of being involved in a case. We need her to assist in the investigation."


    The police showed their credentials. The assistant''s face turned pale. She looked at Shi Ning subconsciously.


    When Shi Ning saw the police arrive, she was surprisingly calm, as if she had expected this to happen.


    Seeing Shi Ning''s cooperation, the two policemen were a little surprised.


    The scene of Shi Ning being taken away was of course also photographed by the paparazzi and soon made it to the hot search list, while Zong Che controlled public opinion, with one exposure after another.


    The melon-eating masses watched with gusto as Ningyue Fashion was powerless in crisis management. The public rtions department of Brocade Embroidery Workshop dide out.


    However, with Zong Che and Zhang Assistant working together, ten Brocade Embroidery Workshops were useless.


    Public rtions was useless and information was flying everywhere.


    Because of Shi Ning��s plot this time, Brocade Embroidery Workshop was once again paraded on the Inte like walking a dog.


    Especially when they saw the stock price plummeting all the way, the shareholders of Brocade Embroidery Workshop felt a pain in their livers!


    In Huafu Hill City, when Rong Dai saw the news, she felt warmed by Huo Shao Ting��s prudence.


    After the incident between Yin Zhongjun and her mother-inw, she had devoted herself to work and was not too concerned about Shi Ning��s provocations.


    She firmly believed that as long as she made Mn Xiang well, the doubts would disappear.


    However, she overestimated Shi Ning��s character.


    "Well, after eating up the melon, it''s time for me to go back and rest," said Qiao Wanzhou, looking at the time. It was 10 o''clock already. He got up and left with Zhou Jing.


    After sending off the two, Rong Dai continued to check Weibo.


    The video was originally leaked by an anonymous small ount. To protect the eyes of the melon-eating masses, the video was processed - except for Shi Ning''s face, the faces of others were mosaicked, and the sound was muted.


    Even so, it did not affect the enthusiasm of the melon-eating masses!


    Rong Dai watched until her eyes felt sore. She closed theptop and put it down, then sent a message to Huo Shao Ting.


    The lesson he taught her today was very meaningful.


    She had always been cautious and careful for fear that her identity would be exposed and cause suspicion.


    As a result, she was timid and could not make a bold disy ofpetence, which repeatedly caused trouble for Shao Ting and the Huo family.

 Chapter 470: Shi Ning is Not Suspected

    <h4>Chapter 470</h4>


    After Huo Shao Ting texted her back, he returned home after half an hour.


    As soon as Rong Dai saw his figure appear, her eyes immediately turned red. She didn''t even have time to put on her slippers before rushing over to hug him!


    "Shao Ting...thank you."


    Her furry head was tucked tightly against his neck, her voice tinged with sobs.


    Seeing that she was barefoot, Huo Shao Ting picked her up in his arms and kissed her cheek lightly with his slightly cold, thin lips.


    "I know that if I gave you time, you could have handled it yourself."


    "But I couldn''t stand to see her bully you for so long."


    Especially since she had teamed up with Yang Yue, making his wife suffer for such a long time!


    How could he possibly tolerate that?


    Rong Dai clung to him, her arms wrapped tightly around him, speaking firmly: "With you by my side from now on, I won''t let anyone bully me again."


    Other than some petty things she couldn''t foresee happening, she had indeed been bullied miserably during this time.


    "That''s good then," Huo Shao Ting said softly, carrying her upstairs into the bathroom.


    ...


    The next day, Rong Dai awoke sore all over. Huo Shao Ting had already gotten up early to go to the gym.


    She took out her phone to check the news headlines on Weibo.


    The hot searches about Shi Ning still hadn''t died down. Shi Ning had been taken to the police station because of Yin Zhongjun''s case.


    Although Yin Zhongjun was shameless and vulgar, when he first arrived at the detention center, he still resisted and struggled at first. After all, Lu Zheng had truly loved him once.


    As long as he stubbornly insisted that Lu Zheng had been willing, the charges of assaulting Lu Zheng wouldn''t stand.


    But he couldn''t withstand itter on and confessed everything.


    The financial backer who had hired him was very cunning, using ounts that had beenundered through overseas routes. Trying to trace those would be very difficult.


    But what kind of person was Huo Shao Ting?


    The investigation did take some time, but in the end he still managed to trace the source.


    Shi Ning was smart, but she was outsmarted by her own cleverness. All the evidence had been thoroughly investigated and collected through Huo Shao Ting''s covert efforts.


    With the evidence stacked against her, she had no room left to quibble. But Shi Ning remained unruffled and calm, nonchntly pushing all the me onto her assistant.


    "Think carefully. These conditions are already very generous. How much longer can you live anyway?"


    Shi Ning''s assistant had not slept all night. When she opened her door in the morning, she saw Shi Yue standing there with several men.


    There were now stacks of very thick contracts sitting on the table. Shi Yue''s hair had turned much whiter overnight, seemingly aging her a great deal.


    The assistant stared at the contracts on the table, her face ghastly white. She struggled for a very long time before finally signing her name.


    Because it was the weekend, and also due to the huge scandal that had erupted yesterday, although Rong Dai and Magnolia Fragrance''s names had been cleared, public opinion was still focused intensely upon them.


    The couple was preparing to travel to Southwest China to film a documentary about the Hope Jewelry Series, so they were at home discussing what items to bring like an ordinary couple. Then they went shopping together at the mall.


    When the couple returned from their shopping trip, Zhang Assistant was waiting for them at the front door to report on thetest developments.


    "The matter with Yin Zhongjun has been resolved. However, as for Miss Shi''s side...her assistant has taken the fall for her. Shi Ning has been released on bail."


    Zhang Assistant updated the couple with the news he had received.


    Rong Dai was puzzled. "That should warrant imprisonment. How could her assistant agree to take the me?"


    Zhang Assistant replied: "I investigated - three months ago, the assistant was diagnosed with terminalte-stage cancer. She only has around two more years left."


    Rong Dai wasn''t stupid either. Based on what Zhang Assistant said, it was already very obvious what had transpired.


    Clearly, Brocade Embroidery Workshop had made a move, pushing the assistant forward to take the fall for Shi Ning.


    With two years left to live, as long as Brocade Embroidery Workshop paid the assistant generously enough to satisfy her, it would be normal for her to assume the me.


    "Boss, now...what should we do?"


    Zhang Assistant hesitantly asked.


    No one had expected that Shi Ning would get so lucky, with an assistant who just so happened to havete-stage cancer by her side.


    As long as the assistant admitted to it, Shi Ning couldpletely evade legal punishment.

 Chapter 471: Only more Ruined.

    <h4>Chapter 471</h4>


    This was the assistant''s voluntary choice, and she is Shi Ning''s assistant.


    Being very familiar with everything about Shi Ning, it is not surprising at all that she could do these things.


    Although everyone knows the assistant is taking the fall for Shi Ning, there is no evidence.


    Even if thew wants to punish her, there still needs to be evidence.


    If Shi Ning does not admit it, and the assistant herself has confessed to everything, then Shi Ning can only be released.


    Huo Shao Ting''s face was very cold. Rong Dai put down her ss and looked at Zhang Assistant: "Let''s leave things for now and not announce anything for the time being."


    From when she was kidnapped and thrown into the mountains, he had investigated so many things, all for the purpose of exposing the person behind the scenes.


    And now there is solid evidence that it is undoubtedly Shi Ning.


    But now the assistant has shouldered the me like this, so everything he did yesterday was in vain.


    "Shao Ting, it''s okay," she said, putting her arms around his waist and looking up at him.


    Everything he did was for her. Of course he felt annoyed that Shi Ning had escaped all consequences.


    "Although she can''t be punished byw, her reputation is already in tatters," Rong Dai consoled him.


    "At least she will no longer have the qualifications topete with me career-wise."


    "In fact, Jin Xuan Fang didn''t protect her by doing this."


    It was obvious that this was Shi Yue''s doing.


    Although Shi Ning had all kinds of faults, she was Shi Yue��s granddaughter, the sessor personally groomed by Shi Yue.


    Now Shi Ning''s reputation was ruined, but Shi Yue would not stand by and watch her go to prison either. It was understandable for him to step in.


    "This time, with my husband demonstrating in person, I guarantee I absolutely won''t give her another chance!"


    She held up her finger very seriously to assure him.


    Huo Shao Ting hugged her and kissed her forehead: "Mm ..."


    For now, this was all they could do.


    The assistant had already confessed, and she was also a terminally ill cancer patient. If they kept aggressively pursuing the case at this point, things could actually turn unfavorable.


    "Besides, the only thing Elder Shi protecting her will do is ruin Shi Ning even more thoroughly."


    "She has such a strong drive to win. How could she possibly let me off easy?"


    "She will definitely make another move. Not everyone around her can be terminally ill people."


    Rong Dai exined, with strands of coldness in her beautiful eyes.


    Yang Yue and the assistant were both Shi Ning''s scapegoats.


    Shi Ning was the real perpetrator!


    If Shi Ning had smoothly entered prison to serve her sentence, Rong Dai wouldn''t have had a chance to take revenge.


    Things were going just as she wished now.


    Seeing the look in her eyes, Huo Shao Ting knew she had ns in mind.


    "Do you need me to send you a few more people?" he asked.


    "No need for now. The manpower at thepany is already sufficient, and Zong Che''s abilities are very strong," Rong Dai shook her head. The elites he had sent to her were now wasted at Mu Lan Xiang Perfumes.


    Cramming more elites in would just be her misusing talent.


    "Isn''t your husband''s ability strong enough?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice went up, carrying a threatening tone as he asked her.


    Rong Dai''s ears instantly turned red. She red at him indignantly but allowed him to pull her into the sofa.


    "What did Dr. Huang find out?" she asked, her face still flushed red after their kiss.


    She had not forgotten about this matter.


    Huo Shao Ting was also concerned about this matter. He took out hisptop and pulled up what Dr. Huang had discovered.


    "It''s this tomb. Some strange things were discovered that are a bit odd. "


    "I have to get to the bottom of everything about you before I can feel at ease."


    He held her slender waist tightly as he looked at the information on theputer screen. Actually, there was some more covert information he had not shared with her, because the covert part was too bizarre and had already involved some things that could not yet be exined by academic theories.


    He did not want to frighten her or make her worry all the time.

 Chapter 472: Live Up to This Reputation

    <h4>Chapter 472</h4>


    The inte was abuzz, and Shi Ning''s reputation was in tatters.


    The recently popr Ning Yue Fashion was wiped out overnight amidstst night''s scandal.


    Rong Dai spent the weekend at home taking care of things and trying to get as much schoolwork done ahead of time as possible.


    She needed to do publicity for the Queen from Tuesday to Wednesday, and on Saturday she had to leave for a shoot in the southwest, which would probably keep her away until the end of the month.


    Naturally she had to get her schoolwork done ahead of time, and things at thepany couldn''t happen without Huo Shaoting either, leaving Rong Dai as the only one left at home.


    She had just gotten offline from ss when she received a message from Qiao Wanzhou. After replying, she went to the kitchen to make some tea to unwind.


    Just then, the doorbell rang.


    She thought it was Qiao Wanzhou and went to look, only to see Shi Yue on the video with Shi Ning, along with his assistant and two reporters.


    She immediately frowned, with no intention of opening the door.


    But Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing happened to show up at the door, so Rong Dai could only press the button to open the electric door and let Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing in.


    "Or I can help you get rid of them?"


    Qiao Wanzhou felt a little guilty. Who could have expected such shamelessness from this grandfather and granddaughter?


    Rong Dai nced at her belly and gently patted it with a faint smile. "No need, I can handle it."


    Qiao Wanzhou was a little scared too. After all, no matter how many things were revealed online, it was nothingpared to what Rong Dai had told her.


    "Then let Zhou Jing stay with you. It''s better to have a man by your side, they''ll definitely be more restrained."


    She dragged Zhou Jing out.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly. "Have you forgotten about what happened between me and Ji Zheng yesterday? Don''t spout nonsense, don''t worry."


    After watching Rong Dai leave, Qiao Wanzhou hurriedly asked Zhou Jing to contact the security department of the residentialplex.


    Rong Dai didn''t open the electric door and looked at the grandfather and granddaughter through the door.


    She used to rather admire Shi Yue, but after Shi Ning''s incident, her goodwill had beenpletely worn away.


    Shi Ning would never have had the audacity to be so unruly and out of control today without Shi Yue''s doting indulgence.


    "Professor Shi."


    She uttered his name lightly, without even looking straight at Shi Ning.


    Shi Ning had spent a night in the detention center and had only just been brought back this morning.


    Although she was unharmed physically, her mental state had clearly been affected. She looked haggard and her eyes contained hostility.


    "Rong Dai, could you let us in to talk?"


    Shi Yue spoke kindly, making it hard for anyone to bear refusing him.


    Rong Dai looked calmly at the people he had brought. The two reporters were consciously filming with their equipment.


    "I''m afraid that''s not convenient, Professor Shi. My husband doesn''t like strangersing into our home."


    "Rong-"


    "Shut your mouth!"


    Shi Ning couldn''t help but want to lose her temper, but was immediately silenced by Shi Yue.


    "That''s fine too, we can talk here."


    Shi Yuepromised. This was better than not seeing her at all.


    "Please go ahead, Professor Shi."


    Rong Dai knew full well the tricks they wanted to y, but didn''t point them out.


    "Rong Dai, Grandma Shi knows you''re a good girl."


    "Ningning has been spoiled by me and acts without thinking things through or considering the consequences. She didn''t properly manage the people around her."


    "Now, she''s learned her lesson. Grandma Shi has brought her here to apologize to you."


    Shi Yue spoke heavily, making that sigh seem especially poignant.


    When he finished, he signaled Shi Ning toe forward and apologize.


    Shi Ning reluctantly walked to the front of the electric door. Looking at Rong Dai''s face, she wished she could rip it to shreds!


    If it wasn''t for her appearance, how could she have gotten into so much trouble?


    But if she didn''t apologize, there would be no ce for her on the inte.


    "I''m sorry!"


    She said resentfully, staring at Rong Dai as if she wanted to devour her.


    Hearing her insincere apology, Rong Dai almost wanted tough.


    She looked sharply at Shi Yue. "Professor Shi, I don''t ept Miss Shi''s apology.


    "Even if you brought her here to kneel today, I still wouldn''t ept it."


    "It''s not for any other reason. I just want to see Miss Shipletely ruined and with nowhere to turn."


    "Since Miss Shi has called me vicious and scheming, then I will live up to that reputation so as not to disappoint your careful nning these days."

 Chapter 473: Out of Breath

    <h4>Chapter 473</h4>


    Shi Yue was stunned for a moment, looking at Rong Dai in slight disbelief, thinking he might have misheard.


    Shi Ning was also taken aback, not expecting Rong Dai to speak like that.


    How dare this cheap woman?!


    Seeing the faint smile on Rong Dai''s face, Shi Ning was furious: "Rong Dai! What do you have to be smug about?!"


    This cheap woman actually dares to mock her!


    "If you weren''t Huo Shao Ting''s wife, who do you think you are?"


    Shi Ning burst out scolding!


    Just thinking about what had happened yesterday made her want to tear Rong Dai apart!


    In just one night, everything she had worked so hard for over the years had turned into bubbles!


    And all this was because of the cheap woman in front of her!


    Shi Ning''s anger was within Rong Dai''s expectations. She ignored Shi Ning and looked at Shi Yue instead.


    "Mr. Shi, you saw Miss Shi Ning''s attitude. I really dare not ept such an insincere apology."


    Old Shi was a little embarrassed, signaling his assistant with his eyes to pull Shi Ning away.


    "If Miss Shi really wants to apologize sincerely, repent and start over, she should be the one in the detention center now."


    "Mr. Shi, I have always admired you greatly."


    "But protecting your calf should also have principles and bottom lines. We all know clearly what happened."


    "Mr. Shi, you managed to protect Miss Shi this time, I hope you can do the same next time."


    Seeing that Shi Yue was about to speak, Rong Dai continued slowly.


    If being a viin is what it takes to withstand those raging waters and protect those close to her, she doesn''t care at all!


    "You two film better. If there''s anything you can''t film, I can provide it to you."


    Rong Dai looked at the two reporters with a smile. They had stopped filming when Shi Ning erupted just now.


    The two reporters lightly coughed while avoiding her gaze.


    "Grandma!"


    Rong Dai had just finished speaking when she heard Shi Ning''s horrified cry!


    The security guards happened to arrive just then. Old Shi fainting gave quite a fright to everyone, and they quickly contacted medical personnel.


    There was chaos outside the electric door. Rong Dai was a little surprised. How could Shi Yue have fainted?


    "Rong Dai, are you alright?"


    Mr. and Mrs. Qiao Wanzhou came out from the room, and Qiao Wanzhou anxiously asked her.


    Rong Dai shook her head: "I''m fine. Old Shi just fainted. I might be a hot search topic againter."


    Qiao Wanzhou red in the direction Shi Ning''s group had left and coldly snorted: "If they really do that, they would truly be digging their own graves!"


    Rong Dai made noment, but Shi Ning has nothing left now.


    To attack her, Shi Ning would do anything.


    Less than half an hour after the three returned to the room, Rong Dai received a call from Lu Nianzhi.


    After hanging up and checking online, she really did be a hot search topic.


    #Shi Yue Brings Shi Ning to Apologize to Rong Dai But Gets Rejected#


    But the attached picture only showed Shi Yue fainting.


    Although Shi Ning''s reputation had been terrible these past two days, even if someone dared to support her online, thements were quickly drowned out.


    It showed that even a hugely popr celebrity like Shi Ning did not get any support online at this time.


    A fallen tree is for monkeys to climb; a cracked wall invites destruction. This is how things are.


    But Shi Ning is Shi Ning, and Shi Yue is Shi Yue.


    The famous Jinxiu Fang founded by Shi Yue is very popr domestically. Netizens did not see the full apology process.


    But just the fact of Shi Yue fainting was enough to make Rong Dai the target of public criticism!


    Seeing the barrage of scolding online, Rong Dai chuckled softly. She got up to copy the video from the monitoringputer in the study room and posted it on her personal Weibo.

 Chapter 474: Stock sold out

    <h4>Chapter 474</h4>


    "Are you not afraid now?"


    When he saw the video she posted and the sharp words, Qiao Wanzhou couldn''t help saying a sentence.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and turned off the screen of her phone.


    "Not afraid anymore."


    Qiao Wanzhou smiled like an old aunt, reaching out and pinching her cheek: "If you had done this earlier, would those people still dare to be so arrogant?"


    Rong Dai smiled without saying a word.


    That was because she was unfamiliar before and didn''t dare to do anything rash.


    Now, she is fearless.


    As soon as Rong Dai posted this Weibo, Magnolia Fragrance and the official Weibo of the Huo family immediately forwarded it, and it was brushed up in a few minutes!


    The words Rong Dai said in the video were heard very clearly, and Shi Ning''s attitude, everyone could see clearly.


    Huo Shao Ting arranged for Assistant Zhang to go to the hospital and get Shi Yue''s medical records.


    After Zong Che pulled some strings, he released it, but it was only the medical record of Shi Yue''s faint this time.


    Although there were many fans of Shi Yue and Jinxiu Mansion, after seeing this medical record and video released, they all stopped talking.


    Although the weekend was not very pleasant, overall it was still okay.


    On Monday, Rong Dai went to Magnolia Fragrance as usual. After finalizing with Dye Jing, she began to screen fabrics, colors, patterns and so on.


    And Dye Yu''s first live broadcast also started under Zong Che''s operation. In order to increase the poprity of Magnolia Fragrance, Qiao Wanzhou specially appeared to help Dye Yu pull some poprity.


    Although it experienced three days of storm, this live broadcast was prepared by Zong Che for a long time, and Dye Yu also prepared for a long time, overall it was very sessful.


    "Sister-inw! You are really amazing! Our inventory has sold out!"


    When Huo Mei Shu, Long Hang and two other new employees saw the sales data on the back end, they couldn''t help shouting and cheering while hugging Rong Dai!


    Rong Dai looked at the data, and thought of the storm she had experienced in the past three days, everything was like a dream.


    These numbers diluted the impact of the storm on Rong Dai.


    "In the future, everyone will have to work hard. Mei Shu, you can count the data here."


    "In addition, Jing will contact the factory to rush out another batch as soon as possible, just in case."


    Rong Dai ordered. During this time, she was influenced by Zong Che and became more adept at dealing withpany affairs.


    Everyone in the office performed their duties in harmony.


    In just three days, the glorious Ningyue Fashion was like a passerby,ing and going in a hurry.


    Shi Ning''s reputation was discredited, and Jinxiu Mansion was implicated.


    And the matter of Shi Yue pretending to faint to protect Shi Ning fermented on the Inte over the weekend, which had already aroused resentment from many people.


    Jinxiu Mansion is now preupied with their own internal contradictions and has no time to pay attention to the news from Magnolia Fragrance, which is a good thing for Magnolia Fragrance.


    At the end of work, Huo Shao Ting''s car appeared as usual outside Magnolia Fragrance.


    "Sister-inw, you can go back first! Later I will send it to your mobile phone, and you can watch it when you go back."


    Seeing the appearance of Huo Shao Ting, Huo Mei Shu immediately blinked at her and pushed her out of thepany.


    Rong Dai nodded, took her bag and got off work first.


    "Let''s go out for dinner tonight. The taste of a newly opened restaurant is good. Let''s try it?"


    After Rong Dai got into the passenger seat, Huo Shao Ting buckled her seat belt for her, while asking her in a soft voice.


    "Listen to you."


    The husband and wife then drove to the restaurant. The restaurant environment was elegant, and the soothing music was very rxing.


    "How did you think ofing to the restaurant to eat today?"


    After sitting down, Rong Dai asked a sentence. After all, they had hired a chef at home, and the husband and wife preferred the feeling of staying at home.

 Chapter 475: Early to the Southwest

    <h4>Chapter 475</h4>


    "Although I like being at home alone with you, sometimes we also need proper rxation, change the environment, which is like changing the mood," Huo Shao Ting tenderly pulled out the chair for her to sit down and leaned over to kiss her on the cheek to exin.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed, and she nced at him without saying more.


    At dinner, Huo Shao Ting carefully cut the steak for her, so Rong Dai only needed to use her mouth.


    After dinner, the couple hugged together on the sofa, sipped red wine, and watched the night colors gradually blur the horizon. The afterglow and neon lights intertwined, looking hazy and ambiguous.


    "I will go to the southwest early tomorrow,"


    Huo Shao Ting put down his wine ss, his eyes gazing at her profoundly, and he reached out to tidy her hair by her temple.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment.


    Tombs were discovered in the southwest, rted to her previous life identity.


    This was very important.


    She had to figure out how she was reborn here, and whether she would return to the Abyss again in the future.


    Although the two had not mentioned this hypothesis in a tacit understanding as their feelings grew deeper recently.


    But they were both very clear in their hearts that this was what they were most worried about.


    "Then I''ll go home and pack your luggage. What time are you leaving tomorrow?"


    Rong Dai did not ask why he had to leave early, and reached out to hug his neck, with her chin against his shoulder to inquire.


    "Leave early in the morning."


    Huo Shao Ting turned around to take her into his arms, kissed her forehead: "Don''t worry, nothing will happen."


    Rong Dai nodded, but still felt uneasy in her heart.


    The couple stayed in the restaurant for more than half an hour before returning to Huafu Hill City. That night, Rong Dai was very active, and the couple was extremely affectionate.


    The next morning, Rong Dai woke up early too, because she still had to attend the empress'' publicity event today.


    "Don''t worry, eat and rest on time, don''t overwork, understand?"


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t let her send him to the airport. He said goodbye in his own yard.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s reluctance and the worry in her eyes, Huo Shao Ting reached out and took her into his arms.


    His thin lips kissed her from her forehead all the way to her lips, and it took a long time for them to reluctantly separate.


    Rong Dai stood in the yard watching as the car gradually shrank into a ck spot, her heart full of mncholy and worry.


    "Still looking? He''s already gone far away."


    Lu Nianzhi walked over, dressed as usual in professional attire, carrying arge ck bag.


    Rong Dai quickly retracted her gaze and opened the door for her.


    After Lu Nianzhi went over the procedure with her, she went out to do styling. Zong Che handled Mnxiang''s affairs, then came over with his assistant and bodyguards.


    At 10 o''clock on time, they arrived at the scene of the empress'' publicity event. Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing couple also attended together. Except for some people who could not make it because of schedule conflicts, almost all the members of the empress'' crew were present.


    Rong Dai had memorized the script beforehand, and answered reporters'' questions fluently on the spot.


    The empress'' crew was a big production. After ying a short clip and the actors'' stills on site, it immediately topped the hot search.


    Lu Ye and Huo Shaojie were rushed off their feet recently, and both had lost a lot of weight, but they were very excited in the face of reporters'' questions on the spot.


    Overall, the atmosphere of the first publicity event was good, and no one asked irrelevant questions, only questions rted to this drama.


    "Ms. Rong, there are rumors that the costumes, some rules of etiquette, and some of the music in the empress'' crew have your participation, is this true?"


    A reporter asked.


    Rong Dai''s pretty face showed a faint smile, and she nodded elegantly: "That''s right, as everyone knows, I''m not a professional actor, purely because of personal interest and hobby, I happened to take this role by mistake."


    "I am a designer, so I participated in some of the designs. If you are interested in these costumes, please pay attention to Mnxiang!"


    Rong Dai answered while not forgetting to advertise for Mnxiang.

 Chapter 476: Her Fear

    <h4>Chapter 476</h4>


    After the empress''s promotional activities came out, it upied the top three hot searches on Weibo for three days.


    Some previews and behind-the-scenes footage were also released, and the stills of the crew and costumes received overwhelming support from mostizens online.


    The three promotional events were very sessful, and Rong Dai did not need to attend the remaining events.


    "There''s no need to rush like this, right? Mr. Huo has so many people around him. He just went ahead to arrange the shooting for you. You don''t need to be so nervous."


    After attending the events and returning to Huafoshan City, Rong Dai changed out of her dress while packing her things and asked Lu Nianzhi to book her ne tickets.


    Lu Nianzhi looked at the time. Although there were no major issues with the three days of events, dealing with those reporters was still tiring.


    "I miss him."


    Rong Dai stopped her movements and looked up at her very seriously.


    Only Shao Ting knew about her affairs, and Lu Nianzhi and the others would not understand her concerns.


    No matter what was discovered in the tomb, she had to go and take a look, otherwise she would not be at ease.


    "...Alright then. But if you go now, there probably won''t be any cars to take you to the vige."


    Lu Nianzhi said sourly, but still took out her phone to book ne tickets for her.


    "It''s okay, I''ll stay nearby."


    Rong Dai shook her head.


    Unable to persuade her, Lu Nianzhi contacted Chong Che to confirm, then booked an 8pm flight for her.


    Considering the situation in the southwest, Rong Dai rejected Chong Che''s proposal and only brought Lu Nianzhi with her.


    Before getting on the ne, she texted Huo Shao Ting, but did not get a reply from him for a long time.


    Rong Dai''s heart was uneasy. She fell asleep groggily on the ne and had a nightmare until Lu Nianzhi woke her up. Only then did she realize her whole body was drenched in cold sweat.


    "We''ve arrived already?"


    Hearing the roar of the airne engine, Rong Dai could see the shing ground lights of the runway through the window.


    Lu Nianzhi nodded. Seeing the fatigue and worry on her face, she said, "What''s wrong with you? You''ve been absent-minded ever since leaving Mr. Huo."


    Rong Dai shook her head. "I''m probably just tired. I''ll be fine after I get through this period and rest well."


    Seeing that she was unwilling to talk about it, Lu Nianzhi did not ask further.


    After getting off the ne and leaving the corridor, they saw Huo Shao Ting waiting there with Special Assistant Zhang and several security guards.


    "Shao Ting!"


    Seeing Huo Shao Ting, Rong Dai''s eyes lit up and she immediately trotted over.


    After worrying for three days, she finally felt relieved seeing him.


    Huo Shao Ting had a smiling handsome face. He stretched out his arms to hug her and kissed her forehead, "Silly girl."


    Rong Dai''s inner fears surfaced, and her nose turned sour as she held him.


    Sensing her emotions, Huo Shao Ting picked her up horizontally.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed, but she felt good being held in his arms, so she simply rested her head on his chest with her eyes closed.


    Lu Nianzhi watched enviously, her eyes green with envy, yet her teeth ached sourly as she dragged her suitcase along behind them.


    "It''s still a ways to the vige. You can sleep first."


    Sitting in the car, Huo Shao Ting still refused to let her go, using himself as a mattress for Rong Dai to lie on.


    "Can''t sleep."


    Rong Dai stroked his chin and shook her head.


    Huo Shao Ting gazed at her. Although she didn''t say it, he could feel the fear and anxiety in her heart.


    "Can you sleep like this?"


    He lowered his head to kiss her lips, giving her a deep kiss.


    Rong Dai''s cheeks flushed red, and she panted slightly, gazing at him hazily as she nodded.

 Chapter 477: Keep Up with the Deep

    <h4>Chapter 477</h4>


    The car bumped all the way until it entered the vige at four o''clock in the morning.


    Rong Dai slept exceptionally deeply throughout the journey. By the time she woke up, it was already bright outside, and Huo Shao Ting was not by her side.


    "You''re awake? Mr. Huo went to the vige chief''s house and told me to let you have breakfast after you wake up."


    The signal was poor in the mountains, so Lu Nianzhi could only y games on her phone to kill time. Seeing Rong Dai wake up, she immediately brought over her clothes and breakfast.


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai sat up, and her vision spun for a few seconds before she could see clearly again.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Seeing her hold her forehead, Lu Nianzhi asked with concern.


    Rong Dai shook her head. She had not felt this kind of dizziness in a long time.


    "The air is very fresh in the mountains. Do you want to take a look?"


    Since she did not say anything, Lu Nianzhi did not pry further. After Rong Dai finished her breakfast, Lu Nianzhi stood outside the door looking at the misty mountains and asked if she wanted to go out.


    Rong Dai nodded. After putting on an outdoor jacket, she followed Lu Nianzhi out.


    Everything in the vige was very backward and antique. It was as if the vige was still stuck in the agricultural society era.


    Only a brand new school stood out conspicuously, shing with the rest of the vige''s architecture.


    The vige was surrounded by mountains. Looking up, one could see lush,yered mountain ranges shrouded in mist.


    The vige was not very big, but had over a hundred households. At this time of day, smoke billowed from every chimney, and the air was filled with a mixture of cooking smells.


    Seeing the architectural style of the vige and the patterns on the vigers'' clothes, Rong Dai felt even more uneasy in her heart.


    She had read all the historical records of this era, yet there was no mention of the Shangyuan Empire at all.


    However, the style here was almost identical to that of the Shangyuan Empire.


    The only difference was that this ce had cement roads and a school, along with some modern facilities.


    If one looked past those, everything else here was exactly the same as in the Shangyuan Empire.


    She could hardly believe her eyes. The more she looked, the more dizzy she felt. Her mind spun out of control and she copsed.


    "Rong Dai!"


    Lu Nianzhi had just started on a roasted sweet potato. Seeing Rong Dai fall, she got such a fright that she dropped it and rushed to catch her.


    "I''m fine, Sister Nianzhi. It''s probably just low blood sugar."


    After sitting on the ground for a few seconds, Rong Dai finally recovered.


    Seeing the panic on Lu Nianzhi''s face, she quickly reassured her.


    But only she knew how frightened she actually felt!


    Cold sweat had broken out on her back, and there was a chill creeping up her spine.


    She felt light-headed and weak, as if her soul could leave her body at any moment.


    "Really? Don''t try to fool me!"


    Lu Nianzhi helped her up, still badly shaken.


    Rong Dai gave a faint smile and shook her head. "I''m really alright. I should go back and wait for Shao Ting."


    Everything in this vige filled her with fear, especially the strange sensations in her body, which made her even more uneasy.


    Lu Nianzhi did not know what had happened to her. She could only nod and help Rong Dai back into the house, making her a cup of honey water.


    "This is wild honey from the mountains. Try it."


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai leaned against the bed and sipped the honey water slowly.


    "Sister Nianzhi, why don''t you go out for a walk?"


    "The air here is quite good. It would be nice for you to clear your head."


    "I don''t have much to do here. I''ll just rest in the room."


    Afraid that Lu Nianzhi would press her with more questions, she quickly made up an excuse to send her away.


    Lu Nianzhi could tell something was on her mind, but since she didn''t say, there was no use prying.


    "I''ll just take a walk nearby. Get someone toe tell me if anything happens."


    Rong Dai nodded. Watching Lu Nianzhi leave, her eyes instantly darkened, filled with dread and unease.

 Chapter 478: You can Call her Aunt.

    <h4>Chapter 478</h4>


    Not long after Lu Nianzhi left, Huo Shao Ting came back.


    "My dear, what''s wrong?"


    Huo Shao Ting looked nervous. As soon as he came in, he pulled Rong Dai into his arms.


    Rong Dai''s eyes immediately turned red. Her hands were as cold as ice cubes, clutching his clothes tightly.


    "Shao Ting, I..."


    Huo Shao Ting''s breathing quickened slightly. His eyes looked fierce as he signaled his assistant to leave.


    After Rong Dai calmed down, he gently wiped away her tears. "Don''t be afraid, I''m here."


    "If you''re ufortable here, I''ll take you back first. I''ll get to the bottom of this."


    Seeing the fear in her eyes, Huo Shao Ting''s heart ached. He kissed her forehead lightly.


    Rong Dai shook her head, suppressing the fear in her heart. "No, I want to go see it myself."


    She looked Huo Shao Ting in the eye, ncing at the vige outside. She told him about the dizziness she felt earlier.


    "The buildings and clothing here are exactly the same as the Shangyuan Empire."


    "But I''ve searched all the history books and there''s not a single word about the Shangyuan Empire."


    "I thought the Shangyuan didn''t exist in history, but now this..."


    She spoke hurriedly, with panic in her tone.


    Such coincidences don''t happen in this world. With everything here being exactly the same as Shangyuan, she couldn''t help but think further.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll get to the bottom of this."


    Huo Shao Ting held her in his arms, murmuring into her hair.


    He had seen her design drafts and the costumes of the drama crew. Although some details were changed, when he first came to the vige three days ago, he noticed it.


    Rong Dai didn''t speak, just leaning against him. It seemed that only this way would her fear be alleviated.


    "After you finish shooting, we''ll go into the mountains to take a look, okay?"


    Huo Shao Ting kept kissing her, trying tofort her and make her feel safe. He could feel Rong Dai''s trembling body.


    Rong Dai hoarsely murmured in agreement. Under Huo Shao Ting��s constion, her emotions gradually calmed down.


    Because of her emotions, Huo Shao Ting didn''t go anywhere all day, just staying by her side, holding her hand as they wandered around the vige.


    "Uncle Huo, do you want to y ball with us?"


    As they passed the school, some children were ying ball on the court. Seeing the couple, they immediately ran over excitedly to ask.


    The children in the vige were quite enthusiastic and lively. They surrounded the couple all at once.


    Rong Dai felt apprehensive about the vige. Although she usually loved children, her whole body tensed up and her smile became rather stiff.


    "Don''t be afraid, I''m by your side no matter what." Sensing her unease, Huo Shao Ting squeezed her hand tighter, his gaze fixed on her.


    "Uncle Huo, is this prettydy your auntie?"


    One child asked curiously. Sweaty and red-faced, they stared brightly at Rong Dai, obviously very fond of her.


    "Yes, she''s my wife. You can call her Auntie."


    Unlike his usual coldness at thepany, Huo Shao Ting became exceptionally gentle.


    He nced at Rong Dai, then smiled at the children, "But Auntie is very young. It''d make her happier if you call her Sister Rong."


    "Really?"


    Children are innocent and lively, not asplicated as adults.


    Hearing Huo Shao Ting say this, the children surrounding Rong Dai immediately chatter away calling her "Sister Rong".


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry. Feeling the children''s liveliness and innocence, she also rxed.


    "Sister Rong, Uncle Huo is so good at ying ball! Can you ask him to teach us?"


    One child held her hand coquettishly.


    Rong Dai smiled gently at Huo Shao Ting, "Mr. Huo, would you be willing to oblige them?"


    "How could I notply with my wife''s request?"


    Huo Shao Ting yed along, taking off his suit jacket and handing it to her. The delighted children cheered, surrounding the couple to the court.

 Chapter 479: Her Grave

    <h4>Chapter 479</h4>


    Sitting at the edge of the stadium, propping up her chin while watching Huo Shao Ting dressed in a white dress shirt and suit pants ying basketball with the children on the court.


    She had never seen such a rxed and unrestrained Huo Shao Ting before.


    As the sun set in the west, the afterglow shrouded the vige, with wisps of cooking smoke rising up while the lively sounds on the basketball court gradually faded away.


    "I didn''t expect Boss Huo to actually be so skilled at ying basketball."


    Rong Dai smiled as she wiped the sweat off him, and only then did the husband and wife hold hands as they returned to the house.


    After dinner, the couple were in the yard looking up at the starry sky when Huang Expert hurriedly came over.


    Huang Expert was holding a password box, followed behind by an assistant and students, and all of their feet were wrapped in thick yellow mud.


    "Boss Huo."


    Upon seeing Huo Shao Ting, Huang Expert discarded the stern demeanor he had in front of his students.


    "Go eat first, thene back and report after you��ve cleaned up."


    Huo Shao Ting instructed lightly.


    Without any hesitation, Huang Expert immediately led his people down.


    "Can he... be trusted?"


    After the people had left, Rong Dai couldn''t help but worry.


    This concerned her identity, so she really didn��t dare to be careless.


    "Trustworthy."


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, holding her hand very tightly, but Rong Dai''s hands had been icy cold the entire day.


    Rong Dai nodded, but her heart was like a tangled ball of yarn, aplete mess, with thousands of thoughts but not knowing where to even begin analyzing things from.


    Huang Expert came back after half an hour, still carrying that box.


    The couple got up and went into the house, with Huang Expert hurriedly following them in.


    "Boss Huo, I want to thank you for the archaeology cause and the scientific field!"


    "This is all simply unbelievable!"


    As soon as he entered the house, Huang Expert couldn''t hold back, speaking while opening the box.


    Rong Dai was nervous, but didn''t dare show any unease on her face. Sitting next to Huo Shao Ting, her gaze also fell upon the box Huang Expert had brought.


    The box contained some ink jade fragments mixed with crushed rocks ced in containers. There were two broken waist tes of differing lengths, and a quarter piece of a feng seal.


    These were all items Rong Dai had previously owned before, and she recognized them at a nce.


    Her blood flowed in reverse throughout her body, surges of chill rushing up to the top of her head. She suddenly grabbed Huo Shao Ting��s hand tightly.


    Huo Shao Ting had seen her ink jade pendant before, so he could naturally recognize these fragments at a nce as well.


    "Boss Huo, this Shangyuan Empire definitely existed!"


    "You see, this waist te, based on the specifications of the tomb, the status of the tomb upant was at least aristocracy or higher!"


    "It''s just a pity the tomb chamber was robbed, the condition of the tomb was too severely damaged."


    Huang Expert didn''t notice anything unusual about the couple, and kept on speaking to himself.


    Then he poured those ink jade fragments from the bottle, took a small maic te to neatly arrange them, looking at the couple with eyes full of excitement.


    "Boss Huo, look, this is the wondrous part I was talking about!"


    Huang Expert excitedly scattered the ink jade fragments onto the small maic te. A few secondster, these ink jade fragments started moving, suspended in the air above the maic te, continuously vibrating and trembling.


    Unable to conceal the excitement on his face, Huang Expert took off the ring on his hand and tossed it into the ink jade fragments.


    Ding!


    The ring disappeared among the ink jade fragments, falling onto the floor next to the table.


    Rong Dai watched with bated breath. She didn''t know the ink jade pendant actually had this kind of function!


    Could the reason she was reborn be because of the ink jade pendant?


    "What is the principle behind this?"


    Although this scene was bizarre, Huo Shao Ting remainedposed as always.


    With Huo Corporation reaching the technological frontier, much of this epassed the scientific realm, and there were many things ordinary people were unaware of that he had ess to.


    Therefore, none of the spectacle Huang Expert disyed shocked him, it only made his worries grow stronger instead.

 Chapter 480: The Function of Jade Pieces

    <h4>Chapter 480</h4>


    "This substance was discovered in the tomb, this is the legendary small ck hole!"


    Huang Expert was very excited as he looked at the couple.


    Rong Dai felt cold all over, with horror and unease in her eyes.


    "If we can find this substance and give it to scientists to study and analyze its structure..."


    "This would definitely be a major discovery that could advance scientific progress!"


    "If we could freely travel through ancient times, present and future with this, then we could also prove that the Ancient Country of Shangyuan existed!"


    "And furthermore, I dare to confirm that the Shangyuan Empire must have grasped secrets unknown to those ofter generations!"


    Huang Expert spoke more and more excitedly, even letting his imagination run wild.


    If these words were said to scientists, they would definitely be as excited as Huang Expert, but to Rong Dai, it was frightening!


    Since these substances existed, it meant that her rebirth into this world was not a coincidence.


    So the possibility of her returning to the Shangyuan Empire was very high.


    "How much of this substance can you find?"


    Huo Shao Ting asked him.


    Huang Expert immediately restrained his smile and sighed: "I brought people to collect for several days before getting this little bit. The tomb was severely damaged, the coffins and corpses were missing."


    "This substance was discovered in the tomb chamber, but very little, this was all that could be collected."


    Huang Expert felt it was a pity, then his eyes lit up and he said: "The piece of Ink Jade that Mr. Huo asked me to appraisest time was the same substance as these fragments!"


    "Leave the things here, you and your people continue researching, funding will be sponsored by the Huo Group, don''t worry about it."


    "Also, you have all signed non-disclosure agreements, you know the consequences if there are leaks."


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were deep and he ordered extremely coldly.


    Huang Expert''s smile stiffened for a moment, he looked at the things in the box and nodded: "I understand, Mr. Huo."


    Although reluctant, Huang Fang had already thoroughly researched this.


    Moreover, the Huo Group had already obtained national approval, they could research everything in this tomb however they wanted.


    Such an opportunity was rare, he certainly didn''t dare offend Huo Shao Ting, he picked up his ring and left.


    After the person left, the room quieted down.


    The couple didn''t speak for a long time, Rong Dai''s gaze lingering on those fragments of Ink Jade.


    And the fragments of Ink Jade on the maic te seemed to have lost their color and effectiveness after being used, scattered on the maic te like sand.


    "Shao Ting..."


    After the person left, Rong Dai looked at him nervously, full of horror, even her voice trembled as she spoke.


    "It''s okay, I''ll take care of it, don''t worry okay?"


    Huo Shao Ting felt heartache for her, knowing she was terrified, held her tightly in his arms, while ordering Assistant Zhang toe in and take the things away.


    Rong Dai was emotionally unstable, Huo Shao Ting didn''t dare leave her side for a moment, holding her in his arms on the bed fully clothed as they slept.


    That night Rong Dai started having nightmares again, everything in the dream made her uneasy, Huo Shao Ting held her without letting go for a moment.


    It was just getting light out when Rong Dai woke up, but her mind was nk, she hadpletely forgotten everything that happened in the dream.


    "Shao Ting... I had a nightmare, but I can''t remember it."


    Rong Dai looked at him nkly, she thought she had enough courage to face it, but when deeply mired in it, she realized how fragile she was.


    Huo Shao Ting got up and hugged her, kissing her forehead: "If you can''t remember then don''t think about it."


    "Believe me, with me by your side, nothing will happen to you."


    He held her face in both hands, forcing her to look into his eyes, and said each word loudly and clearly.

 Chapter 481: Unremembered Dreams

    <h4>Chapter 481</h4>


    Rong Dai stared directly into his eyes, and in that moment, the jumbled thoughts weighing on her heart seemed to vanishpletely.


    The worst-case scenario is just that. Since it''s an oue she can already anticipate, why should she be afraid?


    "Mm."


    She nodded, and the anxiety in her heart gradually dissipated.


    Seeing her emotions stabilize, Huo Shao Ting breathed a sigh of relief.


    "I''ll make breakfast. After we eat, we can start shooting and then go visit the gravesite, okay?"


    Huo Shao Ting cupped her face and gently asked.


    Rong Dai nodded, and Huo Shao Ting got up to prepare breakfast while she remained in bed for a few more minutes before getting up herself.


    The children in the vige were warm-hearted, and they had brought many rare and delicious treats for the couple early in the morning.


    After having breakfast and changing into casual clothes, the couple was ready to begin filming.


    Since it was a documentary, there was no script, allowing the couple to improvise.


    Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting took a tour around the vige, observing livestock, buildings, vegetable gardens, and finally visiting the school to interview students and teachers.


    Because there was no script for the filming and the vige wasn''trge, the process wasn''t too demanding, and it waspleted within two days.


    "You had another nightmarest night?"


    Lu Nianzhi hade over early and couldn''t help but feel a little distressed when she saw Rong Dai''s paleplexion.


    Rong Dai rubbed her temples and nodded. Since arriving in this vige, she had been having frequent nightmares, but strangely, she couldn''t remember anything from the dreams once she woke up.


    "Now that the filming is done, I think it''s better for us to return home early."


    "You''re delicate and weak. If anything else happens, I, your gold-medal assistant, might have to resign."


    Lu Nianzhi looked at her with concern, handing her a ss of warm water and sitting on the edge of the bed.


    Rong Dai took a few sips of water, feeling a bit better, and as she ced the cup down, her gaze met Lu Nianzhi''s.


    She looked at Lu Nianzhi and sighed inwardly.


    Lu Nianzhi was perceptive, and she must have sensed that something was off with Rong Dai these past few days.


    "Nianzhi, if you want to ask something, go ahead."


    Lu Nianzhi stared at her for several seconds, her gaze hesitant for a long time before she let out a sigh and said, "Forget it. This is your private matter, and I shouldn''t pry too much."


    "I just wanted to tell you that when you encounter difficulties, think about the people around you. Don''t try to bear it all alone."


    Rong Dai''s heart warmed, and she smiled and nodded.


    "Huo Shao Ting mentioned going mountain climbing with you. Can your body handle it?"


    Lu Nianzhi changed the subject, returning to her work mode.


    Rong Dai knew this was just an excuse Huo Shao Ting hade up with, considering that only a few people knew about the investigation by Expert Huang.


    "I can handle it. It''s good to get some exercise. If I sleep deeply at night, I won''t have nightmares."


    She lied and then got up to change into her hiking gear. Lu Nianzhi didn''t feel like moving around and stayed in the vige.


    Huo Shao Ting, Rong Dai, Zhang Assistant, and the two bodyguards ventured into the mountains.


    The mountain path was rugged and muddy, and Rong Dai stumbled twice along the way, ending up covered in mud.


    "It''s just up ahead."


    Zhang Assistant walked ahead and could see Huang Fang and others waiting on top of the hill from a distance.


    Rong Dai stopped in her tracks, feeling a sudden wrenching pain in her heart. Intense palpitations made her vision go ck for a moment.


    "If you''re not feeling well, we can go back," Huo Shao Ting swiftly held her, his heart aching as he saw her pale and in pain.


    Rong Dai stubbornly shook her head. "I''m just a little tired. I''ll rest for a bit, and it''ll be fine."


    Huo Shao Ting''s face turned cold and grim. He carefully protected her as they rested in ce.

 Chapter 482: The Cave of the Tomb

    <h4>Chapter 482</h4>


    After walking several hundred meters, Rong Dai had to rest three times, and the feeling of palpitations kept getting stronger and stronger.


    When she finally stood in front of the tomb, Rong Dai looked at the already copsed tomb, her head throbbed sharply, and scenes from her previous life shed through her mind like a movie.


    "Shao Ting, I''m hurting..."


    Her whole body was ice cold, cold sweat kepting out, and she grabbed Huo Shao Ting''s palm tightly with her hand behind her back!


    "Let''s go back!"


    Huo Shao Ting''s face changed, and he was about to pick her up.


    "No, I have to see it."


    Rong Dai shook her head, but the intertwining palpitations and suffocation in her chest, her vision went dark for a moment, and she fainted.


    Huo Shao Ting took her in his arms, turned around and took her away.


    Zhang Assistant was dumbfounded, and after exining a few words to Huang Expert, he hurriedly followed.


    ...


    When Rong Dai woke up dizzy, it was already dusk, as soon as she opened her eyes, she saw Huo Shao Ting holding her hand and keeping vigil at her bedside.


    "Shao Ting."


    Seeing that she had woken up, the worry in Huo Shao Ting''s eyespletely dissipated.


    "How do you feel?"


    Rong Dai''s face was very pale, so pale that you could almost see the capiries under her skin.


    "I''m fine, just a little dizzy. I''ll be fine after resting for a while. Let''s go again tomorrow."


    She was still thinking about the tomb. A few images shed through her mind like lightning, and she was very sure that those were not things she had experienced in her previous life, but rather somewhat familiar with her dreams.


    Only after she thought about it carefully, it was just aplete nk.


    Huo Shao Ting raised his hand and gently tidied her bangs, and lightly kissed the back of her hand, saying, "There''s no need to go again, there is nothing left there."


    Rong Dai was puzzled, what did he mean there was nothing left?


    "Shortly after you fainted, the tomb copsedpletely and was buried by the huge pit."


    "This is a mountainous area,rge machinery cannot be transported in, there is no way to excavate."


    Huo Shao Ting did not hide it from her.


    It was very strange that this tomb chose not to copse early orte, but after Rong Dai fainted.


    Rong Dai was stunned. So everything rted to her previous life just disappeared like that?


    "Don''t overthink it. We''ll leave the vige tomorrow."


    "I''ll handle this matter. I promise I won''t hide anything from you. No matter what the problem is, I will face it together with you."


    Huo Shao Tingforted her. More than the tomb, he was more worried about her health.


    Since entering the vige, her health had been very poor, she also slept poorly. If this continued, he was worried there would be issues.


    Rong Dai was in a daze for several minutes, looking at the wooden ceiling, "Can I go see that ce tomorrow?"


    She didn''t distrust Huo Shao Ting, she just couldn''t let it go.


    It was so close, yet in the blink of an eye, it was gone!


    Huo Shao Ting understood her thoughts and nodded, "I''ll go with you tomorrow."


    ...


    Early the next morning, the couple got up early and went up the mountain with their bodyguards.


    Rong Dai stood at the edge of the huge pit looking down at the copsed tomb, unable to see anything, only yellow mud.


    The palpitations and suffocation she felt when approaching the tomb yesterday also disappeared without a trace.


    "Shao Ting, let''s go back."


    After gazing at the huge pit for a long time, she felt very disappointed, but also a little relieved, feeling at ease.


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting, and then a few people went down the mountain and back to the vige.


    When the couple arrived in the vige, the children in the vige all had red eyes, holding fresh flowers picked from the mountain, looking at the two with eyes full of reluctance and sadness.


    "Sister Rong Dai, will youe to see us again?"


    A little girl came out, looking up at her with tears in her eyes and asked.


    Rong Dai let go of Huo Shao Ting''s hand, squatted down to wipe her tears, and nodded with a faint smile, "I will."


    This ce was rted to Purgatory, before these mysteries were solved, she would definitelye back again.


    "Then Sister Rong Dai, take this ne for you and Uncle Huo to keep safe. This is a ne we made that can protect your safety."


    The little girl wiped her tears, carefully took out two nes from her pocket and handed them to her.

 Chapter 483: Complete the Entry Manuscript

    <h4>Chapter 483</h4>


    Rong Dai reached out and stroked the little girl''s head: "Okay, thank you."


    She took the ne the little girl handed over and put it in her pocket. Huo''s filming crew then set off and left the vige.


    The men, women, young and old of the vige all stood at the vige entrance to see them off. Rong Dai looked at the gradually shrinking figures in the rearview mirror, and her heart inexplicably soured.


    "The journey is still long, go to sleep first."


    Worried about her emotions, Huo Shao Ting reached out and pulled her into his arms, and took a small nket to cover her.


    The past few days Rong Dai had been having nightmares in the vige, and her sleep was not good. She did not refuse, resting her head on hisp as she gradually fell asleep.


    This time she did not have nightmares again. When she woke up, she found herself in a hotel room.


    Huo Shao Ting was guarding by the bed, holding aptop to deal withpany affairs.


    Seeing that she was awake, he took off his gold-rimmed sses off the bridge of his nose and got up to pour her a ss of warm water.


    "How do you feel?"


    Rong Dai drank the water and handed the ss back to him: "Much better."


    Huo Shao Ting put down the ss, got on the bed and hugged her in his arms, letting Rong Dai lean against his chest.


    Leaning against his chest, feeling his warmth, Rong Dai''s uneasy and suffocating feelingspletely dispersed.


    "Shao Ting, that ce..."


    "Don''t think too much about it, I''m here for you, okay?"


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her forehead, his voice extremely gentle to reassure her.


    "Professor Huang is investigating these matters. I will tell you anything, so don''t let your mind wander, okay?"


    Thinking of how restless she had been in the vige these past few days, he felt distressed. Especially since it had only been a few days, and she had be thinner again.


    Rong Dai hugged him and curled up in his arms, nodding.


    For now this was all they could do.


    Seeing that her emotions had stabilized, Huo Shao Ting lowered his head and kissed her lips, using his chin to point out the snow mountain view outside the hotel in the distance.


    "There are no major issues with thepany. I''ll apany you here on vacation for the next few days to make up for our honeymoon."


    Huo Shao Ting asked her in a soft voice.


    Looking at the distant snowcapped mountains, Rong Dai nodded. She did need to adjust her current state.


    Huo Shao Ting''s arrangements were very thoughtful. They changed to a distinctive homestay that day, and the couple was like a pair of lovers who went on a trip together.


    Huo Shao Ting apanied her to visit all the local attractions. The gloom in Rong Dai''s heart also gradually dissipated.


    "What do you think?"


    Wearing a straw hat and casual clothes, Rong Dai held a sketchbook in her hands, sketching designs against the warm sunshine.


    She held up the original draft for Huo Shao Ting to see. Backlit by the light, her extremely beautiful face revealed a smile, like an elf dancing in the glow.


    Huo Shao Ting put down the book in his hand and brought her a fruit juice. He kissed her cheek before lowering his head to look at her design draft.


    "Excellent."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and took a sip of the juice. Her eyes fell on the sketch: "It stillcks some feeling. Can we stay two more days?"


    The golden sunshine shone on her smooth cheeks, even the tiny fluff on her face was stained with a shallowyer of gold. The way she tilted her head and smiled alluringly to inquire also carried a hint of yfulness.


    "As you wish."


    Unable to restrain himself, Huo Shao Ting pulled her into his arms and kissed her lips.


    Rong Dai looked shy and pleased, intoxication in her eyes also stained with a shallowyer of gold, extremely charming.


    Click!


    Suddenly there was the sound of a camera shutter. Rong Dai was startled, and quickly pulled away from Huo Shao Ting, her eyes shifting to a foreigner in the distance.


    "You two are too perfect! I couldn''t resist, please forgive me!"


    The foreigner was a little fat, but very gentlemanly. He spoke bad Chinese as hemunicated with the couple.

 Chapter 484: A Change in Her

    <h4>Chapter 484</h4>


    Brian, in his fifties, had a camera hanging around his neck. He exined while taking out photos, waving them dry, and handing them to the couple.


    Brian had a kind smile. His Chinese was terrible so he gestured at Huo Shao Ting: "Your wife, very beautiful!"


    "You, also very handsome!"


    Brian''s gestures were exaggerated. Rong Dai looked at the photos.


    Brian''s photography skills were superb. The couple were backlit yet their happy expressions could be seen clearly.


    "You two are made for each other!"


    The foreigner''s way of expressing himself was open. Rong Dai gave a faint smile and nodded: "Thank you."


    "Can we keep this photo?"


    She really liked this photo.


    "Of course, may I take a few more photos of you?"


    Brian nodded enthusiastically, gesturing with his camera.


    After getting the couple''s consent, Brian snapped several more photos in quick session. He kept a few for himself as souvenirs and gave the rest to Rong Dai and her husband.


    "I wish we could take photos at every ce we go."


    After Brian left, Rong Dai looked carefully at the photos and couldn''t help but say.


    "If you like it, we can arrange to have photos taken in the future."


    Huo Shao Ting held her tightly, unwilling to let go. He inhaled the fragrance of her hair and couldn''t resist nting a kiss on her earlobe.


    The couple didn''t return to Shengjing until the end of the month.


    The photography for the Hope jewelry series campaign had been very sessful. The production team had returned to Shengjing ahead of the couple, and the documentary ads had already been edited and released.


    Rong Dai had spent the past few days quietly, without looking at anything online. She didn''t expect the Mn Fragrance solo product to receive rave reviews, with her personal Weibo followers increasing by millions in just a few days.


    "Boss Rong, you''re glowing, looks like Boss Huo''s nourishment is very sufficient!"


    When Rong Dai arrived at thepany, Ran Jing had a coquettish smile on her face, teasing her as usual.


    Rong Dai sighed helplessly. Her gaze at Ran Jing was not as gentle as before, with a hint of sharpness: "Sis Ran, this is thepany. Don''t make such remarks again."


    She had spent time alone with Huo Shao Ting these past few days and sorted out many things in her mind.


    Ran Jing was stunned for a moment. Seeing Rong Dai''s serious and stern expression, she immediately wiped the smile from her face and nodded: "I understand."


    Rong Dai looked at her hesitantly and exined: "I just think there should be a professional atmosphere in thepany. I''m not targeting you."


    "I get it, sister. This is how a boss should be!"


    Ran Jing tossed her hair habitually and smiled gently as she nodded.


    Rong Dai nodded back. After putting down her bag in her office, she took out the design book and materials, gathered the office members to the conference room for a meeting.


    Lu Nianzhi had returned earlier than her, so she was clear about thepany affairs. She was familiar with finances, so she had control over thepany data.


    The newlyunched Mn Fragrance solo product had achieved considerable sess. Rong Dai gave everyone generous bonuses.


    She then took out the ns she had prepared in Yuncheng over the past few days. She had Huo Shao Ting''s guidance every day when she went home, so she was gradually getting the hang of things.


    "Sis Ran, please coordinate with the Huo department. These are our designs for the new season."


    "Also, Xue Chun, put out a set of solo products from your side. Sis Ran, I''ve left room for you toe up with your own set of designs."


    "The tform needs to pay attention to promotion. Nianzhi, send me a copy of the datater."


    After handing out the ns to everyone, Rong Dai sat down and drank some water, clearly assigning tasks to each person.


    The people in the conference room looked at each other, all sensing Rong Dai''s change, feeling somewhat puzzled.

 Chapter 485: Leave Something to Think About

    <h4>Chapter 485</h4>


    ��Mei Shu, do you know what��s going on with President Rong? She seems to have a lot on her mind.��


    After the meeting, Song Xuechun hugged the documents and walked over to Huo Mei Shu to ask.


    Huo Mei Shu shook her head. She had put all her energy into work recently. Her elder brother and sister-inw''s rtionship was going very well now, so she hadn''t paid much attention.


    "It''s probably the pressure of endorsing the Hope Series jewelry that''s too much for her."


    "Although Shi Ning and Ning Yue Fashion have both copsed, after all there is still Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    "Sister-inw''s pressure must be great, being serious is not a big problem."


    Huo Mei Shu was rather open-minded about the emotional changes of Rong Dai.


    After all, her temperamental elder sister was nothing new.


    Seeing her say this, Song Xuechun could only nod in agreement.


    Because of Rong Dai''s changes, although the office remained harmonious, it was permeated with a hint of heaviness.


    Lu Nianzhi came into the office with the sorted data to look for her. Rong Dai was looking at the design proof in her hand.


    "I felt you were in a bad mood when we were in the vige, don''t you want to talk about it?"


    "I don''t object to you straightening out the office atmosphere, but you''re a bit too serious today, and everyone has just won a battle, won''t this discourage everyone?"


    Lu Nianzhi put the documents on the desk and sat in the chair staring into Rong Dai''s eyes.


    Rong Dai put down the design proof in her hand, looked up at her and said, "Thank you, Sister Nianzhi."


    "Next time I will pay attention to the way I do things. Although Ning Yue Fashion copsed this time..."


    "Just one Ning Yue can make us so desperate, this is not the situation I want to see."


    "I know I''m stillcking in many ways, but I will try to learn."


    "I want thepany to look like apany, I''m not targeting anyone."


    The trip with Huo Shao Ting to Yuncheng to rx this time made her realize that she relied on him too much and had been indulging in his protection all along.


    The magical features of Mo Yu Jade, she worried that one day in the future it would suddenly disappear.


    She wanted to leave some memories for Huo Shao Ting.


    Lu Nianzhi looked at her in silence for a few seconds before sighing softly, "I understand what you mean, but I think you can choose a more tactful way."


    "If these were people brought in from outside, I wouldn''t say anything, but these people were all sent by Chairman Huo for you to use."


    "If not for yourself, you should also think for Chairman Huo!"


    Lu Nianzhi reminded her that Zong Che and Ran Jing''s seniority in thepany was the deepest after all.


    Rong Dai nodded and thought for a few seconds before instructing her, "Sister Nianzhi, please book a restaurant. I''m treating everyone to dinner tonight."


    "This is also an encouragement I should give everyone for the opening of Magnolia Fragrance."


    Lu Nianzhi nodded without asking her about it anymore. She took the lead to turn off herputer after letting Rong Dai look over the data.


    With Huo Shao Ting always guiding her, she could now understand these data.


    She recalled Lu Nianzhi''s words and wondered if she should give the people in thepany another bonus. It was indeed improper just now when she reprimanded Ran Jing in front of everyone.


    After Lu Nianzhi booked the restaurant, she notified the people in the office. Rong Dai looked at the time, picked up her handbag and went out.


    "I''m treating everyone today to reward everyone for their efforts. Let''s get off work early today."


    Some words are more effective said at the dinner table than at the conference table. She had to turn her current state around.


    The people in the office were stunned for a moment. Lu Nianzhi knew what she meant and took the lead to turn off herputer.

 Chapter 486: Mulan Fragrance Party

    <h4>Chapter 486</h4>


    Seeing Lu Nianzhi get ready to leave, the others did not feel right to decline either and started packing up their things to go to the Magnolia Fragrance restaurant for dinner together.


    The arrangements made by Lu Nianzhi were very rich, with food, drinks, entertainment and more.


    After three rounds of drinking, Rong Dai was slightly tipsy but did not forget the main event.


    She asked the restaurant staff to bring out all the pre-purchased gifts. When Huo Mei Shu opened the box and saw the handbag inside, she was stunned for a moment.


    "Sister-inw...didn''t you just give us a bonus?"


    Rong Dai looked at them with a faint smile. The expressions on everyone else''s faces were the same as Huo Mei Shu''s.


    "The bonus was from Magnolia Fragrance. This is from me to all of you. I hope you like it."


    "Dai''er, this... is too expensive. I can''t ept it."


    When Song Xuechun saw the exquisite handbag in her hand, she did not dare to ept it even though it was not a limited edition item. This bag cost over ten thousand yuan as soon as it was bought.


    Ran Jing was clever and understood Rong Dai��s intentions at a nce.


    "Since it''s from Manager Rong, then I''ll take it. In the future, I hope Manager Rong can give us more such benefits."


    Rong Dai nodded with a smile and looked around the room before saying, "I know everyone is very confused about what I said in the office today and my changes."


    "First of all, I want to thank you all for your hard work and dedication over this period. Without you, Magnolia Fragrance would not be where it is today."


    "Magnolia Fragrance is like my child. I really hope it will get better and better."


    "I''m trying and fumbling, also learning and growing."


    "My experience is still shallowpared to all of you. If I make any mistakes, please let me know."


    "On the road to making Magnolia Fragrance better, I also hope to be more like the ''Manager Rong'' in your words."


    "My attitude may change. I hope everyone can understand and adapt."


    "You are all part of Magnolia Fragrance, indispensable to it. The future Magnolia Fragrance, I hope we can all progress together."


    Ran Jing took the lead to apud: "I support you!"


    "Thank you, Sister Jing."


    Rong Dai nodded. Huo Mei Shu also reacted immediately and apuded her: ��Sister-inw, I��ll support whatever you do!��


    Zong Che and Ji Zheng were sitting on the sofa in the distance without saying anything.


    This time, although luck yed a part, the most important thing was that Magnolia Fragrance��s work was outstanding, which led to its great victory.


    Although Rong Dai��s change today was a bit confusing, when thinking about it carefully, the jewelery endorsements of previous Hope Collection have always been taken by industry veterans with seniority.


    Although Rong Dai was Mrs. Huo, if her qualifications were too shallow coupled with those previous scandals, the pressure would be imaginable.


    Therefore, they were not too surprised that Rong Dai would make such adjustments.


    Rong Dai��s words cleared everyone��s doubts and the atmosphere of the dinner gradually improved.


    It was rare for Magnolia Fragrance to have achieved such remarkable results this time and have a chance to rx. Everyone from Magnolia Fragrance had a great time that night.


    When Huo Shao Ting came to pick up Rong Dai, Lu Nianzhi and Huo Mei Shu were dead drunk.


    After getting drunk, Huo Mei Shu naturally scolded Gu Chengyan. While scolding, she cried.


    Long Hang and several other boys were also drunk. Ji Zheng was responsible for sending them back.


    Song Xuechun, Shi Qiang and Tang Han rented a suite together due to work reasons. The three took a taxi back together.


    Originally, the Huo couple could have taken Lu Nianzhi back to Huafu Hill City with them.


    However, Huo Mei Shu was terribly drunk so the couple had to send her back to the Huo residence first.


    Zhang, Huo Shao Ting��s assistant, was responsible for his wife and little aunt.


    The only ones left were Lu Nianzhi and Zong Che.


    "I''ll send her back."


    Seeing Lu Nianzhi hugging the trash can and vomiting without knowing the heaven and earth, Zong Che could only take on this burden.

 Chapter 487: The Recurring Dream

    <h4>Chapter 487</h4>


    <Rong Dai> still trusted <Zong Che> quite a bit, so she nodded and gave him <Lu Nianzhi>''s home address, then went with <Huo Shao Ting> to send <Huo Mei Shu> back to the <Huo> residence first.


    After sending <Huo Mei Shu> back to the <Huo> residence, the couple returned to <Huafu Hill City>.


    "Since you''ve already made the decision, don''t have any doubts or look back, that will only make you lose focus."


    <Huo Shao Ting> could tell what was on her mind, and handed her a ss of warm water, holding her and gently urging, "Drink the water first, then tell me what''s troubling you."


    <Rong Dai> took a sip of water, leaning against him and shaking her head: "I''m not worried about thepany, I was just thinking about something."


    She put the ss down, turned around and hugged his waist, her eyes deep and obscure: "Do you still remember what <Huang Expert> demonstrated that night?"


    "If I could cross over, what about other people?"


    "If others could also trigger such a coincidence, wouldn''t there be others like me who could appear in this time?"


    Recalling <Huang Expert>''s demonstration that night in the vige, although the situation was bizarre, it gave her...hope.


    Since a dead person like her could be reborn and appear in this time, if she could grasp this medium,


    couldn''t she then save the people of the <Rong> household?


    Her words made <Huo Shao Ting> frown. She had already told him about the <Rong> household.


    He held her tighter, looking at her with a serious and solemn expression: "I understand how you feel."


    "But you need to know that if this could be achieved so easily, it would vite thews of nature."


    "It would lead to many unimaginable consequences."


    Otherwise, whoever grasped this medium would be able to arbitrarily change the world!


    <Rong Dai> was stunned for a moment, her eyes dimming slightly.


    She had harbored a tiny sliver of hope in her heart that the greatest debt she owed was to the <Rong> household.


    "Don''t think about these things. I''ll let you know if there are any new developments with this matter," said <Huo Shao Ting> as he looked at her. The incident in the vige this time had also caught him off guard. Not only was the situation bizarre, but it was also uncontroble.


    He had to hurry up and deal with this matter. At the very least, he had to figure out exactly what this medium was.


    <Rong Dai> nodded and extinguished that tiny glimmer of hope in her heart.


    He kissed her forehead, helped remove her clothes, and carried her into the bathroom.


    That night, <Rong Dai> had the same dream again, but when she woke up in the morning, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t recall what she had dreamed about.


    <Rong Dai> frowned as she sat in bed trying to remember for a few minutes, but her mind remained nk.


    "That dream again?" <Huo Shao Ting> brought in breakfast and put it to the side. Seeing her paleplexion, his brows immediately furrowed.


    <Rong Dai> nodded: "I always feel like it''s rted to my rebirth here, but I can''t remember anything after I wake up."


    Ever since she went to that vige in <Yun City>, she had been having this recurring dream.


    She thought it was because she was under pressure after what happened in the vige, which led to the dream.


    But she didn''t expect that after returning to <Shengjing>, she would still have the same dream. Yet every time she woke up, she wouldn''t remember anything.


    <Huo Shao Ting>''s eyes narrowed slightly. He handed her a backrest pillow to lean against: "Have some breakfast first, and I''ll contact a psychological expert toe give you counseling."


    He didn''t think it was due to the impact of that vige on <Rong Dai>, but rather that <Rong Dai> was under too much psychological pressure.


    However, <Rong Dai> shook her head: "No, I feel like this dream is trying to let me know something, it''s just that I can''t remember it after I wake up."


    Although the recurring dream had been quite troubling for her, since it involved her identity, she didn''t want to just brush it off.

 Chapter 488: Newly Hired Design Director

    <h4>Chapter 488</h4>


    "Don''t worry, it''s just a dream."


    Seeing the worry in his eyes, Rong Dai put her arms around his waist to exin.


    Going to the vige, this matter has been a boulder pressing on the hearts of both.


    But now her mentality has calmed down. At worst, the result would just be like this, it couldn''t get any worse.


    Huo Shao Ting kissed her cheek: "Let''s eat breakfast, I''ll send you to thepany after."


    Rong Dai nodded. After breakfast she went to Magnolia Fragrance.


    The Wing of Fashion''spetition wasing soon, so Magnolia Fragrance''s new season single products had to be finalized before she went to France.


    She spent the whole morning in thepany''s meeting room. After everything was finalized, Rong Dai finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Miss Rong, Brocade Embroidery Workshop is going to host a big show."


    After the meeting, Rong Dai was organizing all the design drafts she drew in Yun City in her office.


    Ran Jing knocked on the door, walking in with a serious expression.


    Rong Dai frowned slightly, looking at the phone Ran Jing handed over.


    "Is the news urate?"


    Although Brocade Embroidery Workshop��s reputation had been greatly damaged from TK to Ningyue Fashion, it was not enough to hurt Brocade Embroidery Workshop��s foundation.


    She had already offended Brocade Embroidery Workshop. It was impossible for them to let Magnolia Fragrance off.


    But now Brocade Embroidery Workshop chose to host a big show at this time? Were they trying to salvage their reputation?


    Ran Jing sat down: "urate. I also have some designer friends working in Brocade Embroidery Workshop.��


    Rong Dai''s eyes darkened. After pondering for a few seconds, she instructed Ran Jing: "Prepare the new season��s single products as soon as possible. The jewelry sales this time were very good. We have to strike while the iron is hot."


    "Put Brocade Embroidery Workshop aside for now. Pay attention to protecting all design drafts. We��ll talk about everything after I return frompeting in The Wing of Fashion."


    Ran Jing nodded. At this time, her phone received several more messages reporting to her.


    Ran Jing opened them to read, while telling Rong Dai the content.


    "Recently, Brocade Embroidery Workshop hired a new designer from abroad. She started working as Brocade Embroidery Workshop��s Design Director yesterday."


    "Her name is Xin Ziqing. This show was proposed by her.��


    As soon as Ran Jing��s words fell, Rong Dai��s expression changed drastically!


    She hurriedly asked Ran Jing: "What did you say the Design Director is called?"


    Ran Jing was startled by her reaction. She simply handed her the phone to see: "Called Xin Ziqing. Miss Rong, do you know her?"


    As Rong Dai looked at those three words, there was a momentary nkness in her mind!


    This name...she remembered too well!


    "Miss Rong, what''s wrong? You look so pale. Are you feeling ufortable somewhere?"


    Seeing Rong Dai��s face turn ghastly pale in an instant, Ran Jing was puzzled. She quickly opened a bottle of water and handed it to her.


    Rong Dai felt numb and cold all over. After barely calming down after drinking half a bottle of water, she said:


    "I...I''m fine, I just suddenly remembered someone else."


    "Nothing now, Jing. Go busy yourself."


    She watched Ran Jing leaving with the instruction, but her mind was still a mess.


    After Ran Jing left, Rong Dai realized her hands were shaking badly. She quickly got up to close the door and lowered all the blinds.


    She took out her phone and called Huo Shao Ting almost without hesitation.


    Huo Shao Ting was in a meeting. Seeing her calling in, he let thepany executives discuss among themselves and went out to answer the call.


    The executives of Huo Group were already used to this kind of situation. Huo Shao Ting came out and immediately answered.


    "Shao Ting!"


    Before he could speak, an anxious, trembling voice came from the phone.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned and looked at his watch: "I''lle to thepany to pick you up right away. We��ll talk face to face about what��s going on."


    She seldom had this kind of emotion appear. This trip to Yun City had him very worried about her condition all along.

 Chapter 489: Just Like Me

    <h4>Chapter 489</h4>


    Rong Dai had the words at the tip of her tongue but swallowed them down: ��Okay.��


    She really needed to tell him about this matter face-to-face.


    Twenty minutester, Huo Shao Ting arrived at Mn Xiang. After Rong Dai handed over the work arrangements, she left.


    Huo Shao Ting did not immediately ask her about the matter. As he drove, he reached out and held her slender hand in his.


    When he noticed Rong Dai��s slight tremor, his brows immediately knitted together.


    Rong Dai was silent, staring nkly ahead as her mind was a chaotic jumble.


    After arriving at the top floor of Huo Group Building, Rong Dai��s hand was still icy cold. Huo Shao Ting wrapped her in a thin nket and held her as they sat on the sofa.


    ��Do you feel a little better now?��


    He looked into her eyes. He had never seen her in such a state before.


    Rong Dai nodded, pulling back her distracted thoughts.


    ��Do you still remember what I asked youst night?��


    She looked at Huo Shao Ting, her gaze exceptionally solemn and serious.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned: ��That kind of thinking is not...��


    ��What if someone has now arrived here the same as me?��


    Not waiting for him to finish, Rong Dai��s emotions were immediately aroused, and there was even a trace of anger in her eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting''s gaze was profound. Her emotions were off today.


    ��Did something happen?��


    Rong Dai realized her emotions were out of sorts. She took a few deep breaths to calm herself before exining to him.


    ��Today, Sister Jing told me that Brocade Embroidery Workshop recruited a new design director from overseas, whose name is Xin Ziqing.��


    ��Shao Ting, this name... Even if I died, I would never forget it!��


    Huo Shao Ting understood. No wonder her emotional fluctuation was so great.


    He held her tighter and kissed her cheek: ��I��ll have Zhang Changdong investigate right away.��


    Rong Dai pursed her lips tightly, her palm-sized face taut, her beautiful eyes shining with dense hatred and indignation!


    Huo Shao Ting immediately called Assistant Zhang. Assistant Zhang did not dare dy and immediately started investigating.


    ��Shao Ting, if it really is her, wouldn��t what I saide true?��


    Rong Dai calmed down again, and hope ignited in her eyes once more.


    Huo Shao Ting couldn��t bear to strike her down again. He could only give her a definite answer after obtaining data and confirmation.


    ��Perhaps.��


    Rong Dai did not continue questioning him. Her mind recollected the events of her past life.


    Everything she had suffered was designed by the Imperial Concubine and the Emperor working together. How could she not resent them?!


    The room was very quiet. Half an hourter, Assistant Zhang called back.


    After Huo Shao Ting hung up the phone, he immediately opened his email on his mobile phone and handed Rong Dai the information on Xin Ziqing to look at.


    Rong Dai clutched the phone and read every word carefully. Xin Ziqing''s information was made very beautifully, wless.


    "No photo?"


    She looked at the empty space where the ID photo should have been attached.


    This information didn''t prove anything, just like her.


    "Assistant Zhang said she grew up abroad since she was little, so he could only find this much for now. Other things will take more time."


    Seeing her nervous and anxious, Huo Shao Ting exined with a frown.


    Rong Dai felt a little unwilling, but she also knew it couldn''t be helped.


    "I''m thinking too much about it. You must inform me if there''s any news. I have to get to the bottom of this."


    "Although it''s just a name, you understand it even if others don''t, Shao Ting."


    Huo Shao Ting responded and kissed her forehead, "I understand."


    Only then was Rong Dai at ease. She leaned against his chest and gradually calmed down.


    She spent the entire afternoon at the penthouse suite, revising design drafts for Fashion Wings, without thinking about the name anymore. But this matter had taken root in her heart.

 Chapter 490: Need An Assistant

    <h4>Chapter 490</h4>


    "Ms. Xin, do you think this is okay?"


    In the office of the director of Brocade Embroidery Workshop, the assistant showed Xin Ziqing the dialog on her phone for review.


    Xin Ziqing, with her long wavy hair draped over her shoulders, was looking at the documents she had just taken over.


    She took the assistant''s phone and carefully read the dialog on it, which was the dialog between the assistant and Ran Jing.


    "You did very well."


    Xin Ziqing handed the phone back to Assistant Gao Cai with an approving look.


    Then she took out her own phone and transferred an amount to Gao Cai.


    "Ms. Xin, this is not appropriate..."


    Gao Cai was shocked and hurried to decline.


    As if having anticipated this, Xin Ziqing smiled and pressed Gao Cai''s hand to stop her.


    "This is what you deserve."


    "I know this has put you in a difficult position, after all Ms. Ran is your ssmate."


    "But for thepany, in extraordinary times we have to use some special methods."


    Xin Ziqing motioned for her to sit down, handed her a bottle of water, and sat down in a chair after taking a couple sips from another cup herself.


    "Ms. Gao, you''ve been working at Brocade Embroidery Workshop for a few years now, right?"


    Xin Ziqing took out her file, smiling as she asked her.


    Gao Cai, nervous, nodded: "Three years."


    "So don''t you want to move up another level? Survival of the fittest is thew of this world."


    "You are a designer for Brocade Embroidery Workshop, not Magnolia Fragrance."


    "Only when Brocade Embroidery Workshop does well will your job go well and your standard of living improve, right?"


    Xin Ziqing looked at her with a faint smile, her voice very gentle.


    Gao Cai was stunned for a moment: "That''s right."


    "I know my current position belonged to Ms. Shi, and many people in thepany are not convinced that I''m sitting in this position."


    "But since I''m able to sit here, it represents the arrangement of thepany''s senior management."


    "Having just returned from abroad, I''m not very familiar with the domestic situation. I need a capable assistant by my side."


    Xin Ziqing looked at her, her gaze particrly sincere and earnest.


    Gao Cai unconsciously rubbed her knees. The implication was already very obvious.


    "Ms. Xin, I''m willing to be your assistant."


    She had been at Brocade Embroidery Workshop for so many years, but with Ms. Shi pressing down before, designers like her never had a chance to stand out.


    Moreover, what Xin Ziqing said was not wrong.


    She worked to make her own life better. As a designer for Brocade Embroidery Workshop, everything she did should be from Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s perspective.


    Xin Ziqing smiled brilliantly: "Then I''ll have to trouble you from now on. As long as I''m in this position for one day, Ms. Gao, you don''t need to have any other concerns."


    Gao Cai nodded heavily and asked with phone in hand: "Does Ms. Xin need me to do anything else?"


    Xin Ziqing approved of her tact and took out some printed materials from the drawer to give her: "For this major show, I want to add a set of your works. Please submit your designs as soon as possible when you have time."


    "Externally, you are still a designer for Brocade Embroidery Workshop. Internally, you are my assistant. I believe someone as smart as Ms. Gao can understand this easily."


    "I believe Ms. Gao would not want to have to rely on others in the future either, especially under your good friend."


    "So I hope Ms. Gao can provide as much valuable information about Magnolia Fragrance as possible, especially regarding Rong Dai."


    "There is a saying in military strategy, know yourself and know your enemy, and you will win every battle. It is the same in this industry."


    "Rong Dai is the backbone of Magnolia Fragrance. As long as we understand her, Magnolia Fragrance will not be difficult to deal with."


    Gao Cai was puzzled as she lowered her head to look at the printed materials, which had a detailed list of things she needed to do.


    In in words, she wanted her to extract information about Magnolia Fragrance from Ran Jing, to have her act as a "spy"!


    "I understand, Ms. Xin, don''t worry."


    Gao Cai closed the materials, her gaze very determined.


    She had endured in this position for many years. If this continued, her golden years would be wasted. She couldn''t afford to wait any longer.

 Chapter 491: She鈥檚 Not Like Me

    <h4>Chapter 491</h4>


    "Won''t this make Rong Dai suspect you?"


    After Gao Cai left, Lan Qian, the assistant who had returned from abroad together with Xin Ziqing, frowned and asked while handing her hot water and special medicine.


    Xin Ziqing took the medicine, twisted it open and took it, and only answered her two or three minutester.


    "Isn''t making her suspect what we want?"


    "She''s not like my body...not like Princess Up Yuan in your records here. Just based on those clothes and names, I really don''t dare to confirm."


    "But I don''t believe there could be such a coincidence."


    "Besides, isn''t this what you and the professor have been researching?"


    "If this matter seeds, you and the professor know better than me what it would mean for you."


    Lan Qian nodded. "That makes sense. As long as you have a n in mind."


    "I''m just worried that Yang Wanwan''s body might get exposed. You know the project we''re researching is prohibited."


    "If it gets discovered, the consequences would be more than we can bear."


    She solemnly warned Xin Ziqing.


    Xin Ziqing smiled charmingly and stroked her own cheek. "That''s why we need people to do certain things."


    "Just order me in the future when you need something done."


    Lan Qian frowned. Xin Ziqing was her and the professor''s "test subject".


    Unfortunately, Xin Ziqing''s condition was unstable and required medication to maintain.


    Plus, they had no way of sending Xin Ziqing back to her era yet, nor could they keep her here indefinitely.


    The medications were specially configured for her. Once Xin Ziqing went off the medications, the body she was using now would die, unable to continue being a vessel, and Xin Ziqing would alsopletely die.


    If Xin Ziqing''s guess was right, this would be a very important matter for her and the professor, and spending more time was understandable.


    This was not the result they wanted, nor was it the result desired by the financial backers supporting their research.


    "Your hands and brain are for research. It''s more effective to have these people do such things. You going would only alert them prematurely."


    "If she really is the useless waste who spent ten years in the Cold Pce, then I understand her too well."


    "I could make her die once, and I could make her die a second time, just not before her value is drained."


    A poisonous glint shed in Xin Ziqing''s beautiful eyes. She didn''t expect there to still be this kind of connection between her and that useless Empress!


    That fool really was haunting her!


    Dying once wasn''t enough, she still wanted to die a second time by her hands.


    Then she would just have to oblige her.


    But this time she wouldn''t let that waste off so easily.


    "Go prepare. I need to go see Shi Ning. She can''t be missing from this game."


    "Also, were you able to get your hands on President Huo''s information? I don''t want to see what''s publicly avable. I want to see what others can''t."


    Xin Ziqing nned in her mind as she instructed Lan Qian.


    Lan Qian didn''t show any dissatisfaction. She went to grab the information and handed it to her.


    "The Huo Corporation had an internal purgest year. There are irreconcble conflicts between Second Master Huo''s family and Huo Shaoting. There''s also Lu Zheng."


    "Not long ago there was a falling out with the Huo and Lu families because of Rong Dai, and the person was sent to Hainan."


    "I''ve heard of this. Can you get Huo Linjing''s whereabouts? I need this person."


    Xin Ziqing asked as she looked through the information.


    "No problem. Huo Linjing is attending a small cocktail party tomorrow. You can make contact. I''ll arrange it for you."


    "Also, I''ll need some time on President Huo''s side."


    "I have to warn you, this man is very dangerous. It''s best not to make contact lightly before you''re sure you can handle it."


    Lan Qian arranged while also reminding her.


    Xin Ziqing''s newly remade face was no longer Yang Wanwan''s pretty face, but was still charmingly beautiful.


    But Lan Qian didn''t think Huo Shaoting was the kind of man who could be so easily enchanted by a beauty, otherwise he wouldn''t have such frightening capabilities at such a young age.


    If it wasn''t absolutely necessary, she was unwilling to offend Rong Dai, who was Huo Shaoting''s wife.


    "I have my own methods for President Huo. Don''t worry about that. Did you get that invitation card to Trends Magazine I asked forst time?"

 Chapter 492: Your Best Choice

    <h4>Chapter 492</h4>


    ��We��ve got it. What are your ns? Are you really going to help the Brocade Embroidery Workshop rise from the ashes?��


    Lan Qian went to the cab to take out the invitation card, and asked with a frown.


    Xin Ziqing stroked the luxurious and exquisite invitation card, smiling with a hint of chilliness, but still charming and bright.


    ��Rise from the ashes? I don��t have such great ability.��


    ��I��m just using it as our stepping stone, to make them our shield.��


    ��There are many people in the Brocade Embroidery Workshop who don��t submit to me. If I want to use them, I have to make some sacrifices.��


    ��Listen to my arrangement. My original intention is the same as yours and the professor''s. This body has caused me great pain.��


    Xin Ziqing exined, with a hint of agony on her charming face.


    Lan Qian didn''t ask any more questions, and immediately lit the specially formted fragrance for her.


    "Thank you."


    It took a while for herplexion to return to normal. Lan Qian quickly disposed of these things.


    "Take Brian''s photos with you and go see Shi Ning."


    After recovering, Xin Ziqing did not forget the matter at hand.


    Lan Qian obeyed her orders. The two went to the high-end residential area where Shi Ning lived, got out of the car one after the other.


    With the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s identity, it was very easy to get in.


    The one who opened the door for the two was Shi Ning''s servant at home. As soon as they entered, it was as if they had entered the dark hell.


    "Why are all the curtains drawn?"


    Seeing the pitch ck room without a hint of lighting in, Xin Ziqing couldn''t help but ask the servant.


    The servant cautiously nced in the direction of Shi Ning''s room and answered in a low voice: "The young miss is in a bad mood and doesn''t like it too bright at home."


    Xin Ziqing''s beautiful eyes shed with disdain. Rong Dai, that waste, could still boss around arrogantly at Shangyuan.


    She didn''t expect her to be able to act prestigious here too. She really looked down on her.


    But this Shi Ning was also too ipetent, unable to deal with such a waste.


    "Open the curtains. I''ll take the consequences."


    Xin Ziqing ordered, took the information from Lan Qian, and walked towards Shi Ning''s room.


    "This..." The servant looked embarrassed.


    Lan Qian nced at the servant: "Do as she said."


    Xin Ziqing had just pushed open the door when a pillow came flying towards her!


    Her face changed, and she dodged to the side. The pillow just happened to hit Lan Qian who was following behind perfectly.


    "Get out! Didn''t I say not to disturb me?"


    Shi Ning''s roar came from the dark room. Lan Qian''s face immediately turned ck.


    "Bear with it."


    Xin Ziqingforted Lan Qian, then turned on the light by stroking themp holder on the wall.


    The room suddenly lit up, and Shi Ning''s decadent appearance was in full view.


    "Fool, didn''t you hear what I said?"


    Shi Ning instinctively closed her eyes, but her voice was still shouting angrily at a high volume!


    Xin Ziqing just stood at the door, looking down condescendingly at the decadent Shi Ning. Her voice was mocking, "So this is what Miss Shi is really like. I overestimated you."


    Hearing the unfamiliar voice, Shi Ning suddenly opened her eyes. When she saw Xin Ziqing, her face was still fierce: "Who are you?! Why did youe to my house?"


    Xin Ziqing chuckled softly and sat down on a chair she pulled over.


    "The newly appointed chief designer of the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, Xin Ziqing. This is my assistant, Lan Qian."


    "What?!"


    As soon as Shi Ning heard this, she immediately lost control. Her face was fierce as she pounced down from the bed.


    "Before Miss Shi acts out, I hope you can understand one thing."


    "I obtained this position because Shi Yue forcibly overruled dissenting opinions, and even gave up some shares."


    "If you want to destroy it just like that, go ahead."


    Xin Ziqing spoke unhurriedly, not frightened at all.


    Before Shi Ning could speak, she handed the information in her hand to Shi Ning.


    "If Miss Shi wants to overthrow Rong Dai, overthrow Magnolia Fragrance, then trust me, it''s your best choice."

 Chapter 493: Mulan Scent is Not a Threat.

    <h4>Chapter 493</h4>


    Shi Ning looked at her doubtfully, while opening the information.


    When she saw Rong Dai in the photo, she suddenly tightened her fingers, and the photo was wrinkled immediately.


    "Are you here to provoke me?"


    She questioned Xin Ziqing.


    Xin Ziqingughed: "I''m not that bored, take a good look at the design drawings above."


    "Although I don''t know the domestic situation, I know the foreign affairs better than you."


    "Rong Dai is going to participate in The Wing of Fashionpetition. Once she wins the award, do you think you will have a chance to turn over?"


    Shi Ning red angrily: "That''s impossible! Isn''t she going to participate in the GCpetition?"


    Xin Ziqing shook her head lightly and smiled: "It was just a feint. Even you know GC is a toothlesspetition."


    "She is Huo Shao Ting''s wife. With Huo''s ability, could they not find out this little thing?"


    Shi Ning looked at her half-believingly, and only after a few seconds did she ask: "Why do you want to give me this?"


    "Because I am the design director of Brocade Embroidery Workshop. This position was given to me by Old Shi. Since you are the sessor cultivated by Old Shi, you are the future heir."


    "I am supporting my future boss, what''s wrong with that?"


    Xin Ziqing had expected Shi Ning to ask this way, so she answered seamlessly, leaving Shi Ning unable to refute.


    "So you mean you want me to participate in The Wing of Fashionpetition?"


    Shi Ning''s expression was restored immediately, but the doubt in her eyes had notpletely disappeared.


    Xin Ziqing shook her head: "Not you participating, but me participating."


    "Are you kidding me?"


    Shi Ning was furious and threw the information on the ground!


    Xin Ziqing shook her head lightly and smiled. No wonder she lost to that trash Rong Dai!


    She doesn''t even have this much patience.


    "Take your design to participate. If you win the award, then the honor will be yours. I will find a suitable opportunity to prove it to you."


    Xin Ziqing slowly exined. She didn''t have the time like trash Rong Dai to learn these things.


    Shi Ning stared at her for a few seconds, bent over and picked up the information.


    She stared at the photo for a while, her face tightened, with strong hatred in her eyes!


    "No, I don''t need any awards. I just want Magnolia Fragrance and Rong Dai to be finished!"


    "If you can do it, then the position of design director of Brocade Embroidery Workshop will still be yours in the future, I promise!"


    Xin Ziqing smiled at her, and after a few seconds she said: "Then I wish us a pleasant cooperation."


    Shi Ning''s eyes showed fierceness, she nodded heavily, and asked her after looking at the photo again: "When are you going to France?"


    "Thepetition of The Wing of Fashion is this month. I will give you the design in three days."


    "Give it to me in two days. I have to show the draft to the judges of The Wing of Fashion before Rong Dai goes to France."


    "This will increase the chance of winning."


    Xin Ziqing shook her head and refused.


    After Shi Ning looked at the photo, she gritted her teeth: "Okay, I''ll give you the design within two days."


    Xin Ziqing nodded in satisfaction and looked around her room.


    "Miss Shi, being so decadent will only make Magnolia Fragrance more smug."


    "It may not be a bad thing for you now. You can have more time to create."


    "I''ll pave the way for you ahead. With our nking attack, what can Magnolia Fragrance do even with Huo''s support?"


    "If one day Huo Shao Ting gets tired of Rong Dai, Magnolia Fragrance will not be a threat."


    Xin Ziqing gave her advice mysteriously with a smile.


    Shi Ning: "I understand what you mean. Pay attention to those old guys in thepany and I will send you some information."


    "If they dare to make things difficult for you, just release it."


    Xin Ziqing: "Okay."

 Chapter 494: Her Suspicions

    <h4>Chapter 494</h4>


    Xin Ziqing was making arrangements eagerly on her side, and Rong Dai did not dare to rx either. She had calmed down over the past two days. A name alone could not prove anything.


    "Ms. Rong."


    Zong Che knocked on the door and came in, sitting down in front of her.


    "We will set off for France tomorrow. Here is the itinerary I''ve arranged. Please take a look and see if there is anything else that needs to be added."


    Rong Dai took the tablet he handed over and carefully went through the itinerary.


    "It''s very detailed, no issues."


    Zong Che nodded and forwarded a copy of the itinerary to Lu Nianzhi as well.


    "Zong Che, there''s something I need you to arrange in advance."


    Seeing that he was about to leave, Rong Dai frowned slightly and asked him to stay for a moment.


    "What else can I help with, Ms. Rong?"


    Zong Che had just stood up but sat down again.


    Rong Dai shook her head with a furrowed brow: "I''m just a little worried. I feel like participating in the Wings of Fashion show this time may not go as smoothly as expected."


    Although Ningyue Fashion and Shi Ning had copsed, Xin Ziqing had emerged again now.


    She hoped she was overthinking things, but she had to be prepared.


    "How would you like me to arrange things then, Ms. Rong?"


    After thinking for a while, Rong Dai took out a file folder from a drawer under her desk.


    She then pressed the inte to ask Song Xuechun toe in.


    Soon, Song Xuechun walked in hugging her design portfolio. Seeing Zong Che there as well, she instinctively shrank back a little.


    "Ms. Rong."


    Rong Dai nodded, signaling her to sit down. She then took out the design drafts from the file folder and handed them to the two to look at.


    "Xuechun, I want you toe with us to France this time."


    Song Xuechun''s eyes lit up in pleasant surprise. "Really? I can go too?"


    Rong Dai nodded. "Of course. But I have made some arrangements that may inconvenience you."


    "For thispetition, I have prepared two sets of submissions. I want the first set to be entered under your name."


    "Jinxiu Boutique recently hired a new design director. I will exin more about this person after I have confirmed things."


    Song Xuechun pushed her sses up and nodded seriously, "No problem! As long as it benefits ourpany, Dai''er, just tell me what to do and I won''t hesitate at all!"


    Rong Dai smiled, touched by her loyalty. "Then let''s keep this confidential for now. No one else in thepany should know, especially not Jing."


    The news about Mu Lanxiang came from Jing''s friend who worked at Jinxiu Boutique. Rong Dai did not doubt Jing, but if that person really was the Imperial Noble Consort, she would surely do something like this!


    Zong Che''s brows furrowed slightly but he did not ask further.


    Song Xuechun looked like she wanted to ask something but eventually just nodded, "I understand, don''t worry."


    Rong Dai nodded and handed the documents over to Song Xuechun.


    "You keep this set of design drafts. Just treat it normally, no need to be too nervous."


    Song Xuechun anxiously took over the documents. Only after she left the office did Rong Dai allow Zong Che to leave as well.


    "You suspect Jing''s friend?"


    Rong Dai had not expected Zong Che to see through her thoughts so quickly. She smiled and nodded, "The timing of the news was too deliberate. I can''t ignore it."


    "If that''s the case, we can make use of it too. But if Jing finds out, things may be moreplicated."


    Zong Che frowned at her. "Ms. Rong, from now on, let me know in advance about any ns you have. Otherwise I won''t be able to coordinate appropriately on short notice."


    "Since you and Mr. Huo have appointed me to this position, I need your absolute trust."


    Rong Dai looked at him for a few seconds. "No problem."


    She had just decided on the spur of the moment this time, just to be safe.

 Chapter 495: I鈥檒l Wait for You at Home

    <h4>Chapter 495</h4>


    After the arrangements were made, Rong Dai got up early the next morning.


    Although her ne ticket was for the afternoon, she still needed to go and see the Old Madam before leaving for France.


    Because of the matter with her mother-inw, the Old Madam had been upset for a while.


    She was busy with Magnolia Fragrance''s affairs, and Huo Shao Ting had work matters at hispany to attend to.


    Her younger brother-inw and Little Sister-inw also had their own things to take care of, so the Old Madam was inevitably lonely being by herself in the big mansion.


    "Sleep a little longer."


    Sensing that she had gotten up, Huo Shao Ting opened his eyes, reached out to put his arm around her waist, and dragged her back under the covers.


    Rong Daiughed helplessly as she held his face in both hands and kissed his forehead, "Don''t mess around, let me get ready to go see Grandma."


    Huo Shao Ting frowned like a child denied candy, rubbing against her as he spoke in a reluctant tone tinged with resentment.


    "How long will you be gone?"


    Rong Dai: "I''ll be gone for a week, I''lle back next week."


    Huo Shao Ting was silent for a few seconds without saying anything, just hugging her waist and pulling her into his arms again.


    Rong Dai suddenly blushed to her ears, feeling waves of heat. Her chest ached slightly.


    Seeing the red and purple marks on her chest from his sucking, Rong Dai was a little exasperated. How was she supposed to wear formal attire like this?


    "I''ll wait for you at home."


    Huo Shao Ting rolled over to press her down, looking at her with unconcealed reluctance in his eyes.


    Rong Dai hugged his neck and kissed his lips, smiling at the corners of her eyes, "Okay, your wife will return in a week."


    Unsatisfied with her response, Huo Shao Ting lowered his head to give her a deep kiss.


    It took the husband and wife half an hour toe downstairs. Huo Shao Ting cancelled his morning work and drove her to the supermarket to buy groceries before going to the Huo residence.


    "Grandma."


    As soon as she entered the garden, she saw the Old Madam watering the flowers. Rong Dai smiled and called out, immediately walking over.


    Huo Shao Ting carried the groceries into the kitchen. Mrs. Wang and Uncle Li saw the coupleing and immediately smiled brightly, pouring tea and serving water.


    "It''s not the weekend today."


    The Old Madam adjusted her old pair of reading sses on the bridge of her nose. Her mouth said so, but her eyes couldn''t conceal the smile.


    Rong Dai smiled as she took the flower sprayer from her hands, speaking in a slightly coy tone, "Is Grandma unhappy that we''re bothering you?"


    The Old Madam beamed, "Don''t talk nonsense, child. I''m certainly happy that you came."


    Then she went with her to the pavilion chatting andughing.


    While Rong Dai was brewing flower tea, she also messaged Huo Mei Shu and Huo ShaoJie. The two of them returned to the Huo residence half an hourter.


    Ever since the incident with her mother-inw Lu Zheng, the Huo residence had not been this lively.


    The family ate a lively lunch together, had afternoon tea, before leaving separately to attend to their matters.


    Huo Shao Ting drove her to the airport, but kept her in the car for half an hour refusing to let her go.


    Zong Che called her repeatedly to urge her, leaving Rong Daiughing and crying. She had no choice but to first unbuckle her seatbelt.


    "I''lle back soon."


    There was a hint of resentment in Huo Shao Ting''s eyes, but in order not to dy her check-in time, he just responded with an "En."


    Then he got out of the car to open her door and personally sent her to the ground boarding gate.


    Joining her on this trip to France were Zong Che, Song Xuechun, and the bodyguards brought by Huo Shao Ting - around seven to eight people in total.


    "If you encounter any unresolvable issues, contact this person. He will handle it."


    Before she left, Huo Shao Ting was still worried, saving a number on her phone and making Rong Dai memorize it.


    Rong Dai nodded and smiled, kissing his cheek before boarding the ne with the others.

 Chapter 496: See an Old Friend

    <h4>Chapter 496</h4>


    Watching Rong Dai''s ne take off, Huo Shao Ting''s face resumed its usual stern coldness. He immediately called Zhang Assistant.


    After hearing Huo Shao Ting''s arrangements, Zhang Assistant''s face turned bitter like a bitter melon.


    Completing one week''s worth of work ahead of schedule in one day, even 48 hours would not be enough!


    On the ne, Rong Dai sat next to Song Xuechun. After the ne flew through the clouds and stabilized, they could see the golden sunlight and fluffy clouds.


    After nearly ten hours on the ne, at around four in the afternoon local time, Rong Dai''s group safelynded.


    Zong Che''s arrangements were proper. The security personnel took professional equipment to check the safety of the hotel before letting the group check in.


    After taking a hot shower and eating something, Rong Dai estimated the time and video called Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting answered almost instantly.


    "Have you eaten dinner?"


    Seeing that he was still working, his serious and diligent look was especially attractive. Rong Dai was reluctant to look away, but felt even more distress that he was still working thiste.


    Huo Shao Ting put down his pen. He wore gold-rimmed sses on the bridge of his nose, looking gently refined yet a little sinister.


    "Eaten. Are you tired?"


    Rong Dai shook her head. The couple video chatted for half an hour.


    Due to the time difference, Rong Dai became sleepy again and fell asleep on the bed while video chatting without realizing it.


    Seeing her fall asleep, Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed involuntarily. After ending the video chat he sped up his work pace.


    The next morning Rong Dai''s group had breakfast in the hotel restaurant.


    As usual, Zong Che held a tablet, arranging the itinerary in real time.


    "Thepetition is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. There is an equestrian event in the afternoon and a party at night, all arranged by the Fashion Wings. From now until noon we can arrange other things."


    "Ms. Rong, do you want to rest or go shopping?"


    Rong Dai took a bite of bread and looked outside at the bustling streets.


    The style here was different than Huaxia. Huaxia was full of rigor, while here romantic colors could be seen everywhere.


    "Let''s go take a look, I also want to experience the local customs here."


    Zong Che nodded and immediately made arrangements.


    With just the time for breakfast, Zong Che had arranged all the routes.


    Rong Dai mainly watched, while Song Xuechun was quite excited, shopping all along the way.


    At noon, Zong Che arranged for them to dine at the most authentic French restaurant. Rong Dai learned some Western dining etiquette from Huo Shao Ting. But to avoid making mistakes herself, she specifically asked for some pointers at the restaurant.


    "Dai''er, I didn''t expect your French to be so fluent."


    Song Xuechun looked at her with great admiration. She was very envious that Rong Dai conversed entirely in French with the locals.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, "You can too. Since this is the fashion capital, we are designers, it is necessary to learn some of thenguage."


    This was also why she chose to learn French originally.


    After leaving the restaurant, Rong Dai returned to the hotel to change clothes.


    Just as Rong Dai was about to go out, she received a message from Ran Jing.


    Seeing the screenshot Ran Jing sent, Rong Dai''s eyes became deep, mixed with coldness.


    Did Xin Ziqing arrive in France yesterday too?


    I wonder if I''ll be able to see her at the equestrian fieldter?


    Rong Dai felt a bit expectant and eager inside. She really wanted to know if this Xin Ziqing was the Xin Ziqing she knew.


    "Dai''er, what are you thinking about?"


    Seeing her distracted, Song Xuechun called out to her.


    Rong Dai returned to her senses and smiled lightly, shaking her head, "Nothing, maybe I''ll be able to see an old friend this time, who knows."

 Chapter 497: It Can鈥檛 Feel Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 497</h4>


    When a few people arrived at the equestrian field, the staff arranged by The Wing of Fashion immediately came up with interpreters to receive them.


    In addition to the judges, the organizers also came.


    There were many designers who came topete, and there were even many that she had seen in magazines.


    "Dai''er, thepetitive pressure is a bit big!"


    Song Xuechun, who of course also knew these top designers, couldn''t help but lower her voice and whisper in Rong Dai''s ear when she saw the star-studded scene.


    "Don''t be afraid, at worst we''ll just treat it as a learning experience."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and gently patted her hand, her eyes searching among the crowd.


    Now Ningyue Fashion and Time Ning did not pose a threat to Mn Fragrance, she was not so obsessed with whether The Wing of Fashion could win the award.


    Song Xuechun nodded and followed closely by her side.


    There were many people in the equestrian field. Because there were activities arranged, the entire equestrian field was packed up.


    Until the equestrian event began, Rong Dai did not see anyone from China Brocade Workshop appear, and could not help feeling a little disappointed.


    She believed that her sister Jing''s friend would not give her false information.


    "Dai''er, what are you looking for? You''ve been looking around since just now."


    When the equestrian event started, Song Xuechun was originally looking forward to it. Seeing Rong Dai frowning, she couldn''t help asking her.


    "Looking for people from China Brocade Workshop."


    Rong Dai didn''t hide it.


    "People from China Brocade Workshop also came?"


    Song Xuechun was shocked.


    Rong Dai nodded: "They know we came topete."


    "But didn''t we give them news of GC''s event?"


    Song Xuechun asked again, her mind full of questions.


    Rong Dai shook her head: "GC is in Mn. Sister Jing''s friend sent a message that China Brocade Workshop''s newly appointed design director arrived in France yesterday."


    "Apart from participating in thispetition, there is probably no other business in France."


    "What should we do then?" Song Xuechun became nervous immediately.


    "Don''t panic, it''s okay."


    Rong Daiforted her and watched the equestrianpetition seriously.


    Foreigners were passionate about equestrian events, especially the aristocracy. This could almost be used to measure a person''s entirety.


    The equestrianpetition was wonderful, and Rong Dai also liked equestrian sports.


    Because of her past life as a general''s family, she could freely enter and exit the barracks. Her father was extremely strict in disciplining his children.


    Therefore, her equestrian skills were also taught by her father. It��s just that she had neglected them in her previous life.


    The Wing of Fashion''s organizers made very thoughtful arrangements. After the equestrian event, they arranged an equestrian experience entertainment activity.


    The equestrian field was huge. In addition to the professional racetrack, there was also arge paddock specially provided for guests to learn and experience horse riding.


    As one of the contestants, Rong Dai also had to participate symbolically.


    "Next, let us invite designer Miss Xin from China Brocade Workshop to perform for us!"


    Just as Rong Dai had changed into her riding clothes and came out, the announcer enthusiastically announced in French.


    Rong Dai��s heart skipped a beat! She immediately looked towards the track.


    All the people standing outside the track looked over, only to see Xin Ziqing leading a brown horse out, smiling brightly.


    Rong Dai looked at her from afar, with profound colors in her eyes, not missing any of her actions.


    It was as if sensing her gaze, Xin Ziqing gave her a meaningful smile in her direction.


    Rong Dai''s whole body suddenly tensed!


    That smile... she couldn''t feel wrong!


    "Dai''er, what''s wrong with you?"


    Song Xuechun was startled by her change.


    Rong Dai''s whole body stiffened and turned cold, her face tense, her heart pounding wildly, hot and cold all over.


    "I''m fine."

 Chapter 498: You and I are Deep

    <h4>Chapter 498</h4>


    Seeing her face tense up, Song Xuechun didn''t dare ask any more questions. Instead, she looked over at Zong Che.


    Zong Che also frowned. He didn''t understand what was so special about Xin Ziqing that made Rong Dai so nervous.


    Ever since Xin Ziqing had appeared, Rong Dai''s gaze hadn''t left her for a moment. Anger and hatred churned endlessly in her eyes!


    Xin Ziqing was graceful and carried an air of elegant nobility. Her horse riding performance was brilliant, earning apuse from the audience.


    The host asked Xin Ziqing to say a few words, and everyone else was also eager to hear her speak.


    Xin Ziqing took the microphone, breathing lightly. A charming blush appeared on her face as she smiled, her gaze locking onto Rong Dai in an instant.


    "If possible, I hope Madam Huo can perform for us. I''ve heard that Miss Rong is exceptionally skilled at horse riding. My performance was merely some insignificant tricks."


    Rong Dai''s slender hand suddenly clenched into a fist!


    Her beautiful eyes shed with intense hatred!


    It really was her!


    The Imperial Noble Consort!


    "Dai''er, don''t scare me!"


    Song Xuechun was frightened by her expression. She looked back and forth between her and the smiling, calm Xin Ziqing.


    She had never heard Rong Dai mention knowing someone like this before.


    Rong Dai took several deep breaths, suppressing the churning emotions in her heart.


    A few secondster, a faint smile appeared on her pretty face as she strode towards Xin Ziqing.


    "Big brother Zong, look at this..."


    Song Xuechun was confused and worried. She couldn''t help but look to Zong Che.


    Zong Che shook his head, signaling her to remain calm: "Miss Rong is not rash."


    With every step Rong Dai took closer, the events from her past life became clearer in her mind.


    Although Xin Ziqing''s current face didn''t resemble her past life''s, this triumphant smile was something she would never forget!


    "Rong Dai, long time no see."


    Xin Ziqing watched her approach, her smile growing even more radiant. Her beautiful eyes were filled with deeper emotions.


    She loved seeing the pain and hatred in Rong Dai''s eyes, yet also her helplessness.


    It was like this in their past life, and it was still the same now!


    Rong Dai clenched her fists tightly, using the pain to keep a clear head and suppress the hatred in her heart!


    "Yes, it''s been a long time!"


    "I thought I''d never have the chance again."


    She looked straight into the other''s eyes. Her whole body felt like it was set ame, the feeling spreading through her.


    The deep-rooted hatred from their past life covered her heart like a web.


    "How could that be? Our fates are deeply intertwined."


    Xin Ziqing looked at her with a smile,pletely unafraid of her gaze.


    If she could crush her in their past life, she could do the same now!


    "Miss Xin is right, our fates are indeed deeply intertwined..."


    Otherwise how could they still be entangled like this life after life?


    Rong Dai stared at her. Chilling intent stirred in the depths of her grayish blue eyes.


    She didn''t expect to meet the Imperial Noble Consort again under these circumstances.


    "Madam Huo, I look forward to your performance."


    Xin Ziqing looked at her full of smiles. Although their words were vague, they had confirmed each other''s identities.


    As Rong Dai looked at the smile on her face, the people from the Rong manor who had died tragically in their past life shed through her mind one after another.


    She hated that she couldn''t strangle the woman in front of her right now!


    "Oh right, Empress, after your death the Emperor issued an edict stripping you of your title. You weren''t even allowed burial in the imperial tomb."


    "The only one left of the Rong n was your useless second brother."


    As Xin Ziqing passed by her, she told Rong Dai in a voice only the two of them could hear.

 Chapter 499: Queen, You鈥檙e Still Stupid.

    <h4>Chapter 499</h4>


    The smile on Rong Dai''s face cooled abruptly, bing extremely icy. Hatred and anger intertwined and surged in her eyes!


    "Tsk, after so many years the Empress is still the same... Still so impatient!" Seeing her change in expression, Xin Ziqing''s smile was as radiant as the sun. She didn''t forget to provoke her with words.


    As long as she saw Rong Dai in pain, she was happy, she was thrilled!


    The hatred in Rong Dai''s heart was almost uncontroble, but her reason barely held her back so she would not loseposure!


    "Is that so? The Imperial Concubine is no better."


    "Although I may be dead, you still cannot sit in that rear position."


    Xin Ziqing''s smile instantly froze, without saying anything more she went downstairs.


    Rong Dai took a deep breath, her eyes were deep and gloomy.


    Xin Ziqing, we have a long road ahead.


    In my past life, I was too stupid.


    This time, I won''t be like that again.


    Subsequently she adjusted her state of mind, revealing an enchanting smile on her face. She disyed the Western etiquette she had learned, personally selecting horses.


    Gripping the reins, she took a deep breath with closed eyes, recalling the scenes of her brothers teaching her to ride a horse in her past life.


    For a moment, she seemed to regain that happy time.


    She mounted the horse in one smooth motion, moving cleanly and nimbly, immediately winning quite some apuse.


    "Why did you provoke her? Did she admit it?"


    After Xin Ziqing came down, Lan Qian was a little dissatisfied with her impulsiveness, but still handed her waterced with drugs.


    "If I don''t provoke her, how would I know?"


    "This fool really hasn''t changed at all. She''s nothing but a straw bag that calls herself from some general''s family!"


    "She can''t restrain herself at all. It''s simply effortless to trick her with words."


    Xin Ziqing let out a cold snort, full of disdain in her beautiful eyes.


    Excited little sparks immediately appeared in Lan Qian''s eyes. "It''s really her?"


    "Can''t be wrong. Only she would be so foolish."


    Xin Ziqing drank all the water, looking at Rong Dai still demonstrating her horse riding skills in the field. Her eyes were very contemptuous.


    Lan Qian looked at Rong Dai like she was looking at amb to be ughtered, both excited and cherishing.


    "Then we can start catching her and taking her back."


    Xin Ziqingughed lightly, her gaze looked speechlessly at her: "Catch her? Are you sure you won''t be wanted like Yang Wanwan?"


    "Have you forgotten she still has Huo Shao Ting backing her?"


    "What do we do then? Just watch?"


    Lan Qian was stumped immediately. She really didn''t dare offend the mighty Huo Group.


    Only then did Xin Ziqing restrain her expression, ncing lightly at her. Her gaze fell on Rong Dai who was still showcasing her horse riding skills.


    "If you and the professor want to research her smoothly, you''d better listen to my arrangements."


    Lan Qian asked immediately: "Then what are your arrangements?"


    "You can''t eat hot tofu in a hurry. Now we both know each other''s identities, that''s the first step."


    "I will make proper arrangements for subsequent matters, guaranteeing that not only will you and the professor not offend the Huo Group, you may even gain Huo Group''s financial support."


    "The Huo Group is also in the tech industry. Do you think they would let such research slip by?"


    "Give me some time. I won''t let you down, after all our goals are the same."


    Xin Ziqing urged her.


    Unwillingness showed in Lan Qian''s eyes, but she could only nod in agreement to her n.


    In the riding field, Rong Dai''s horse riding performance was even more wonderful than Xin Ziqing''s!


    As soon as she got off stage, she immediately won thunderous apuse!


    Rong Dai''s cheeks were flushed red, looking extremely charming as she panted slightly.


    Even the host couldn''t help eximing: "Miss Rong, you''re so beautiful! I''ve never seen such a charming orientaldy!"


    Rong Dai politely thanked him. As she looked around for Xin Ziqing, she discovered that the other party had already left the venue.

 Chapter 500: Play with Her

    <h4>Chapter 500</h4>


    Rong Dai shook off the host''s entanglement and came down from the stage. Song Xuechun handed her a tissue to wipe her sweat, looking at her admiringly yet puzzled.


    "Dai''er, you''re so awesome!"


    "I didn''t even know you were so good at horse riding. You were scared to death when we went together before!"


    Song Xuechun''s words made Rong Dai frown slightly: "Shao Ting taught me."


    Zong Che watched Rong Dai and Xin Ziqing''s confrontation very clearly, of course he would not pay attention to such trivial matters like Song Xuechun.


    He found an excuse to send Song Xuechun away and sat down with Rong Dai in the distance.


    "Ms. Rong, I need to know what you want to do."


    "This is abroad. If I don''t know your needs clearly, I won''t be able to ensure things go smoothly."


    Rong Dai looked at him and pondered for a while before speaking.


    "I can''t exin this matter clearly to you."


    "But the hatred between me and Xin Ziqing cannot be resolved. She will harm me."


    "I won''t go easy on her either. It will be more troublesome for you thispetition, there may be problems."


    Although the work from creation to confirmation was kept strictly confidential, Xin Ziqing''s means...


    She knew them well, so she didn''t dare to take it lightly.


    "I understand."


    Zong Che nodded without asking her for deeper reasons. This was enough.


    "Next, Ms. Rong, I hope you remember two things."


    "First, don''t leave the bodyguards'' sight. Second, don''t take action on your own."


    Rong Dai nodded. She understood this without Zong Che telling her.


    What puzzled her more now was how Xin Ziqing got here.


    It seemed someone was backing her, otherwise how could she just openlye to find her?


    And dare to confirm her identity so confidently?


    Although there were still many distinguisheddies and gentlemen with outstanding equestrian performances afterwards, Rong Dai and Xin Ziqing''s names had already left an impression on everyone present with their two wonderful horse riding scenes.


    After learning that Xin Ziqing had left the riding ground, Rong Dai''s churning emotions were finally suppressed.


    She didn''t hesitate to send the news to Huo Shao Ting.


    Because of Xin Ziqing''s appearance at the riding ground, Rong Dai only made a symbolic appearance at the banquet that night before returning to the hotel.


    Her identity as Madam Huo might be eye-catching domestically, but it was different abroad.


    After returning to the hotel, she took a bath to calm herself down.


    When Huo Shao Ting received her message, his expression changed instantly!


    "Arrange a flight to France immediately!"


    He ordered Zhang, his assistant, right away. But Rong Dai''s call came in at this time.


    "Shao Ting."


    Rong Dai stood by the window, swaying a wine ss in her hand. The alcohol stimtion made herpletely calm down.


    She looked at the dazzling and magnificent Parisian night, with very deep eyes.


    "You don''t need toe to France. It''s better for you to stay in China."


    She seemed to have expected that Huo Shao Ting wouldn''t be able to help rushing over to find her, and called him after estimating the time.


    Huo Shao Ting frowned, and only asked her after a few seconds: "Are you sure you don''t need me?"


    Rong Dai suddenly chuckled softly: "Shao Ting, do you trust me?"


    In herst life, she had suffered so much under Imperial Concubine Huang. If she didn''t learn her lesson this time, she would really be foolish!


    She never wanted to get involved in scandals, but it was different with Xin Ziqing.


    "I trust you."


    Huo Shao Ting answered her seriously. He really wished he could be by her side right now.


    "That''s good. If something happenster, I will need you to cooperate with Xin Ziqing''s performance."


    Rong Dai said softly, looking out at the night view. Her beautiful eyes showed a hint of coldness.


    In herst life, Xin Ziqing was able to win because the Emperor stood on her side.


    But it was different this time.

 Chapter 501: I want her Dead.

    <h4>Chapter 501</h4>


    She fell silent for a minute or two, a dim light shing in her eyes, her voice equally deep: "Shao Ting, if therees a day when you are disgusted by me with my hands dirtied."


    "I hope you can tell me to my face instead of abandoning me in secret."


    "Since she is Xin Ziqing, I must have her dead!" Rong Dai''s voice was determined and full of hatred!


    She just...wanted to give Huo Shao Ting a preemptive warning first.


    In her previous life she had lived too muddled! She had only thought it was The Emperor acting against the Rong household.


    So in a fit of anger she had moved to the Cold Pce, which perfectly assisted The Emperor and the Imperial Noble Consort.


    Now the Imperial Noble Consort had also appeared here, reminding her of many things from her previous life.


    From The Emperor marrying her to making her The Empress, in considering many of these matters closely, the Imperial Noble Consort''s shadow was never absent.


    "I..."


    "You just go ahead and do it with ease, I trust you, don''t have any worries."


    "If you are tired and cannot continue, I am still here, I am the de in your hand."


    Rong Dai wanted to exin further, but Huo Shao Ting''s voice had already sounded over the phone.


    How could he not understand her worries?


    Hearing his words, Rong Dai was stunned for a moment. Watching the dark yet dazzling city, her heart that was like a leaf drifting on water now had an anchor.


    "Mm..."


    With him trusting her so much, hadn''t she already died once? What else was there left to fear?


    After the married couple hung up the phone, Rong Dai downed the ss of wine in one gulp.


    As the alcohol started taking effect, she curled up on the bed like a cat, eyes slightly narrowed, her expression gradually turning blurred and drowsy.


    The scene before her eyes slowly changed...


    The Cold Pce was bleak with bitter rain and wind. The pce doors that had been sealed shut for ages suddenly opened, and a sweet breeze burst in.


    Looking to be only in her forties, the Imperial Noble Consort was dressed splendidly in brocade robes, graceful and elegant. Her beauty was still charming, and her delicate hands held a perfumed handkerchief covering her nose as she entered.


    Gazing at the maimed woman on a dpidated bed, her eyes were full of disgust and disdain.


    "Is she dead?"


    The Imperial Noble Consort asked the eunuch beside her dressed in flowery robes, her tone icy cold.


    That eunuch stepped forward to check the woman''s breathing, and shook his head: "She still has a breath left in her."


    "That works too. After all this can make her die knowing more clearly, consider this my benevolence."


    The Imperial Noble Consort said lightly with a chuckle, raising her hand to signal the eunuch to force-feed the woman medicine.


    In a short while, the woman on the broken bed seemed toe alive, the rity returning to her eyes bit by bit.


    "Rong Empress, it has been almost ten years since This Noble Consortst saw you right? Are you quite used to living in this Cold Pce?"


    The Imperial Noble Consortughed brightly and sat down in front of her on a gold-iid taishi armchair, her voice gentle.


    The woman on the dpidated bed looked at her resentfully as if insane, her voice hoarse as she questioned: "Xin Ziqing, you are too cruel! I have no injustice or enmity against you, why did you harm me like this?!"


    "Indeed no injustice or enmity, if you must me someone me yourself for blocking This Noble Consort''s path to the position of Empress. Only with your death can This Noble Consort be Empress."


    "What is an Imperial Noble Consort? After all just a noble concubine."


    The Imperial Noble Consortughed lightly, her voice seemingly gentle yet piercingly cold as splintered ice!


    "This Noble Consort hase today to see you off on your way. After all we were sisters of the Inner Pce. There are some things This Noble Consort won''t say, afraid that after you reach the Yin Cao Underworld you be a disoriented ghost, also unable to exin it clearly to Lord Yama."


    The Imperial Noble Consort looked at her triumphantly, the smile on her face extremely radiant.


    Then with a wave of her hand she signaled the eunuch to read the imperial edict deposing the Empress.


    The woman''s face was full of shock, then anger and bitterness!


    She had actually been deposed!


    "The Emperor said that since the Empress does not cherish the position of Empress, it shall be revoked."


    The Imperial Noble Consort gazed at her with enjoyment and utmost malice in her beautiful eyes!

 Chapter 502: You鈥檙e So Stupid

    <h4>Chapter 502</h4>


    The woman on the broken bed was agitated and furious. She spat out a mouthful of bright red blood, unable to utter a single word, only able to stare wide-eyed at the elegant and noble woman before her!


    The Imperial Noble Consort waved her hand to dismiss the servants in the room, then rose and approached the bedside, looking down condescendingly at her.


    "The Rong Household and the Xin House were once like robes and hats, with the two families living harmoniously."


    "But when my Xin House fell from grace, your Rong Household just stood by and watched as my Xin House suffered a disastrous decline."


    "Today I have merely allowed you to experience this feeling of your family''s destruction. How is that wrong?"


    "Now that you are about to die, I see no harm in telling you the truth."


    "Your exiled nsmen - I whispered in the Emperor''s ear and arranged for them to be executed by the most severe punishments, thrown into the wild forests as food for beasts."


    "My confidants reported back that their screams were perhaps the most delightful sounds in this world."


    "Now the Rong Household, which once prospered, has paid the price for your foolishness."


    "Rong Dai, it is you who brought death upon the Rong Household. Do you still not understand?"


    The Imperial Noble Consort smiled radiantly, her voice sounding like a devil, chilling people to their core.


    "You entered the Prince''s residence at thirteen and became the nation''s mother at sixteen. The Rong Household was full of exceptional people, yet you alone are an utter fool!"


    "I truly envy you. I did not have your good fortune, with father, brothers, and sisters paving the way for you all along."


    "Yet what have you done?"


    "Your elder brother performed great military service on the border, but just for a momentary slip of the tongue, he was exiled."


    "Your second brother was covered in battle glory, but just for wording a memorial too radically, his legs were broken, leaving him a cripple since."


    "Your father, the grand general who pacified the nation - tsk tsk...no integrity in his old age."


    "And your elder sister willingly became a concubine just for your sake."


    "You see, they all did this to ensure you could steadily fulfill your role as the nation''s mother!"


    The Imperial Noble Consort articted each word with a smile, remembering these events even more clearly than the woman herself!


    "Yet what did you do? Fearful of damaging your conjugal rtions with the Emperor, considerate of your position as Empress, you didn''t even plead with the Emperor on their behalf."


    "I truly feel sorry for the Rong Household!"


    "Tell me, what use is raising a worthless daughter like you?"


    "The Rong Household''s fate today is not the fault of others, only the fault of you, the Empress, for being too stupid, too weak, too selfish, and caring too much about the Emperor''s favor."


    "I didn''t even have to exert any effort, just whisper a few words by the Emperor''s side, and I could bring utter ruin upon your Rong Household."


    "Rong Dai, you are truly pathetic. If not for the Rong Household''s deep roots and connections..."


    "A woman like you can barely fulfill the role of principal wife, how could youpete with me?"


    The Imperial Noble Consort scoffed contemptuously at her!


    The woman on the broken bed was so angry her veins bulged and her face was ferocious, yet she could not utter a single word!


    "I was kind enough to have your father and brothers'' unfinished bones collected, so you can properly mourn them and fulfill your filial duty."


    The Imperial Noble Consort seemed to have tired of speaking, and waved her hand for a eunuch to bring up a small jar.


    The small jar contained a few blood-stained bones with scraps of flesh still attached, bearing the clear marks of being gnawed by beasts.


    The woman on the broken bed turned purple, vomiting up a lump of dark purple blood!


    "Oh right, the Emperor also said that after you are deposed, you will lose the privilege of being buried in the imperial concubines'' mausoleum. I have selected a prime feng shui location for you."


    "I remember the Empress loathed mountain climbing, but I happen to love it, so after you die, Empress Rong, you will be buried in a remote mountain forest in the distant southwest."


    "With no n or offspring left, and no one to remember you, just a lonely grave."


    "Also, the imperial child in your belly...I was in an amused mood that day, and wanted to see what it looked like when a woman endured a agonizing childbirth. So I had the medicine that secured your pregnancy tampered with, adding ten times the amount of abortifacient."


    "Empress Rong,peting with you was truly boring in the extreme, you are far too stupid, I cannot even muster any interest."


    "This is for the best as well, for you to go early. Remember to be smarter in your next life."


    The Imperial Noble Consort''s voice was icy and charming. The smile on her exquisite face was so cruel.

 Chapter 503: One Counts as One

    <h4>Chapter 503</h4>


    ��Do you really think His Majesty has a special fondness for you?�� the Imperial Noble Consort said. ��Everything I have done to you has been with His tacit consent.��


    ��Otherwise, do you think I, powerless and without influence, could have made His Majesty take action against the Rong Household relying solely on my looks?��


    ��What His Majesty desires is the Rong Household��s military power, the Rong Household��s authority.��


    ��Unfortunately you fool mistook His Majesty''s exploitation for affection. If not stupid, then what are you?��


    ��Of all the consorts in the three pces and six courts, aside from you, none harbor true feelings for the Emperor.��


    ��I am no exception, of course.��


    ��It is only a pity that His Majesty is utterly disgusted by your sincere affections. Rong Hou, I truly feel immense sorrow for you.��


    ��You may as well resign yourself to this cold pce. On the day I am designated Empress, I will be sure to burn incense sticks for you, tofort your spirit in heaven!��


    After the Imperial Noble Consort finished speaking, she looked satisfied as she led her entourage away, leaving the woman clinging to life on the tattered bed.


    The woman on the bed was filled with regret and resentment, but she was already drained. She could do nothing.


    Scenes shed by as if glimpsed from a galloping horse.


    n kinsmen subjected to extreme punishment, screams shaking the heavens. Bodies tossed into the wilderness, bing fodder for beasts...


    ��No!�� Rong Dai awoke with a start in her hotel room, crying out loudly!


    A few secondster she realized it was just a dream.


    Yet everything in the dream had seemed so real. She remembered every detail with perfect rity.


    She was drenched in cold sweat, breathing heavily with a hand clutched over her chest.


    A dull pain throbbed in her heart, as if a boulder pressed down on it.


    Rong Dai noticed her hands and feet were as cold as ice. She got up and poured herself some hot water, drinking two cups before her heart finally began to settle down from the terror and resentment.


    But her hands still shook badly. Was the Rong Dai in the dream her or the Rong Dai of this time period?


    She died in the cold pce. The Rong n was exiled, with only her second brother allowed to remain in the capital due to his crippled leg and the pleading of some old retainers.


    She had thought that by entering the cold pce, the Emperor��s heart would soften and he would spare the Rong n.


    But she never imagined the Emperor would be so ruthless, ordering the execution of all exiled members of the Rong n who were then thrown into the wilderness as food for beasts!


    Her child had died at the hands of the Imperial Noble Consort!


    Rong Dai clenched the cup tightly until her eyes turned red. Boundless hatred and fury intertwined in her heart.


    The Imperial Noble Consort��s words echoed clearly in her mind.


    She had kept these matters locked deeply in her heart after entering the cold pce, unwilling and not daring to revisit them.


    Because she felt she had failed the Rong n.


    The Imperial Noble Consort was right about one thing. Everything was due to her stupidity and stubbornness which brought disaster upon the Rong n.


    Old wounds carved deep into her heart were torn open and bled afresh as scenes from the past reyed vividly in her mind.


    ��I''m sorry... I was unfilial and harmed all of you.��


    Rong Dai couldn��t help sobbing bitterly!


    After a good cry, she finally felt like the long suppressed pain in her heart had been vented.


    The fate of the Rong n had always been a scar she was unwilling to touch.


    But Xin Ziqing��s appearance had provoked her, forcing her to confront all this!


    As dawn broke outside the window, Rong Dai wiped the tear tracks from her face.


    Looking at the brightening sky, her eyes held an indescribable chill.


    Since she still lived, even if this was not the Netherworld, those who deserved retribution would get their due.


    She then went into the bathroom to wash up and carefully applied elegant makeup with her hair in a simple updo. She chose a floor length vintage dress with a hand-made sash around her waist.


    Graceful and intelligent, tranquil andposed, she fully embodied Eastern beauty.

 Chapter 504: Copycat Works

    <h4>Chapter 504</h4>


    When Song Xuechun knocked on her door and came in, she was surprised to see that Rong Dai had already packed up, and she paused for a moment.


    "It''s still early. I was going to ask you to go jogging with me. I didn''t expect you to have your makeup done already."


    She looked at Rong Dai, her eyes full of amazement.


    Rong Dai looked at Song Xuechun in her athletic clothes, so youthful and vibrant, and smiled lightly as she shook her head: "I want to go to the venue early."


    "Then I''ll go back and change. I saw Zong Che go downstairs to the gym just now. He probably won''t be done for a while."


    Song Xuechun looked at her own athletic clothes and reached for the door handle.


    Rong Dai nodded. The face of Xin Ziqing floated in her mind, and she said to Song Xuechun, "Bring me the design draft I gave you. I want to confirm it."


    Song Xuechun nodded, went back to her room to get the design draft, and brought it to Rong Dai before returning to her room to put on makeup and change clothes.


    Rong Dai opened the file folder. The design draft inside was still intact.


    After checking it, she neatly rolled it up and put it in her purse.


    After Song Xuechun and Zong Che were ready, they set off for thepetition venue.


    France was the city of romance. Even an event like this did not have too solemn an atmosphere.


    Thepetition venue was arranged at a manor chateau.


    The manor was huge, and the chateau was full of Western characteristics and Western antiquity.


    Many participating designers had already arrived, each dressed in beautiful and fashionable attire, with the most exquisite makeup.


    The manor had red wine, champagne, desserts, making the whole thing feel like a wine reception, with a very rxed atmosphere.


    Under the guidance of the reception staff, Rong Dai''s group went to the conference hall to submit their design drafts.


    The conference hall was veryrge, able to amodate a hundred or so people. It was now filled with fashionable wing organizers and judges.


    Zong Che submitted Rong Dai''s draft for thepetition. After the organizer''s staff projected the work, Rong Dai sat calmly in her chair, ready to introduce the work ording to the required procedure.


    But as soon as this draft was projected, there was an uproar in the conference hall. The expressions of the judges and organizers revealed shock and suspicion.


    They were speaking French, thinking that Rong Dai''s group would not understand. Some were even on the verge of anger.


    Song Xuechun did not understand, but she could sense that something was very wrong with the atmosphere.


    "Brother Zong, what''s going on?"


    She hurriedly asked Zong Che.


    Zong Che''s face was cold, with anger brewing in his eyes: "The organizers say Ms. Rong''s work is suspected of giarism."


    "They are discussing whether to revoke Ms. Rong''s qualification to participate."


    He had not expected Rong Dai''s earlier words in the office toe true!


    "That''s impossible!"


    Song Xuechun''s face turned pale, and she immediately cried out!


    Hearing her voice, Rong Dai turned to look at the two of them, giving them a reassuring look.


    "Let''s see how Ms. Rong handles this first," Zong Che said, though his heart was gripped with anxiety for Rong Dai.


    If the usation of giarism took hold, Rong Dai''s reputation would be ruined along with it!


    Rong Dai did not bother to defend herself throughout. She just quietly watched as the staffers and judges finished their discussion.


    "Are you finished? Don''t you want to hear about the origins of this work from me?"


    "Chinese fashions have many simrities. Based solely on projecting the work, and dering giarism ording to who came first, isn''t that a bit unfair?"


    "This makes me very doubtful about the fairness of your hosting thispetition."


    Only after everyone was silent did she speak.


    Her French was wless and fluent, and her emotions were not affected at all by the unfriendly remarks.

 Chapter 505: Please Go Now

    <h4>Chapter 505</h4>


    When Rong Dai said so, the organizers hesitated for a moment and said she could first introduce the inspiration and source of her work creation.


    Rong Dai did not decline and carefully introduced her creative inspiration.


    However, after she finished her introduction, the atmosphere in the conference hall became even more solidified, and there was a sign of an impending storm!


    Tao Yaofang was also among the judges, and her face did not look very good either.


    She did not know Rong Dai, but she believed in Huo Shao Ting''s vision.


    "Ms. Rong, please note that this is not China."


    She reminded Rong Dai, and she was also very confused in her heart, why would the works submitted by Brocade Embroidery Workshop be so simr to Rong Dai''s?


    Rong Dai nced at her, her pretty face still smiling indifferently, without any panic.


    "I don''t know how to interpret what you just said?"


    Her inquiry immediately aroused some resentment from the organizers. The vast majority of the organizers in the conference hall were people who were engaged in or currently engaging in the designer industry.


    Therefore, they were extremely obsessed with works.


    "Miss Rong, excuse my bluntness!"


    "Your work has been suspected of serious giarism. Although there are times when styles are simr, I didn''t expect you to even copy the creative inspiration!"


    "This is sphemy against fashion! It��s a provocation against the event! It��s a provocation against our profession!��


    As soon as this remark came out, it immediately won the approval of the vast majority of people in the conference hall.


    "If you still want to retain some dignity, I advise you to pack up your work and get out of here now!"


    "giarists are never wee here, this is not China!"


    "I don''t care who you are in China, no matter how noble your status is, please leave here immediately!"


    The righteous words came from a man in his forties with light blue eyes, who had thebel of a sessful man.


    At first nce, he would make people feel good about him.


    Rong Dai''s face still had a faint smile. She was very clear that if she could not resolve this storm, the consequences would mean something.


    She looked up at the man and asked fluently in French: "May I ask your name?"


    The man frowned, but still answered: "Delsen."


    "Mr. Delsen, and everyone present knows very well that works are the life of designers."


    "I can understand the hatred of giarism very well."


    "But since my work has been implicated in the usation of giarism, shouldn''t you give me a chance to prove my innocence and justify my work?"


    "If you just drive me away like this, I''m afraid I can''t do that."


    Rong Dai''s attitude suddenly became tough.


    "I can''t ept not even giving me a chance to defend myself. I spent time and put my heart into this work. Since you use me of giarism, can you show the giarized work forparison?"


    "I am a designer. Once such a reputation is established, for me and my studio, it will be a devastating blow."


    "I wouldn''t do such a stupid thing, let alone scorn to do so."


    Rong Dai looked indifferent and calm, but every word was sonorous!


    After much discussion among the organizers and judges, they decided to take out the participating works of Brocade Embroidery Workshop forparison.


    "This shameless Brocade Embroidery Workshop!"


    Seeing the projected Brocade Embroidery Workshop piece, Song Xuechun immediately changed her face and cursed angrily!


    Zong Che felt a cold feeling in his heart. The works had been under his custody all this time, so which part exactly went wrong?


    He nced at Rong Dai''s back, gave Song Xuechun a few words of warning, and then left the conference hall. He immediately called Huo Shao Ting.


    This matter was rted to Rong Dai''s reputation. Once she wasbeled with the word "giarism", not to mention letting Magnolia Fragrance go international.


    I''m afraid these fashion darlings would feel disgusted at the mere mention of her name in the future!

 Chapter 506: Are you still satisfied

    <h4>Chapter 506</h4>


    Looking at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''spetition piece, Rong Dai suddenly understood why Xin Ziqing had arrived in France a day early.


    Getting the jump on others was a trick that Xin Ziqing often used in her past life.


    Xin Ziqing understood who she was in her past life, while she understood the current Xin Ziqing.


    This piece was clearly not made by Xin Ziqing''s own hand.


    Xin Ziqing had been secretly raised outside by the emperor for many years to bear his heirs. Although she was doted on the most after entering the pce, the number of concubines in the rear pce was so numerous.


    Xin Ziqing spent her whole life struggling, where would she have time to do something so carefree and leisurely?


    Moreover, something like making an embroidery for thepetition was simply not something she needed to do herself. Besides, Xin Ziqing was extremely poor at embroidery and her painting skills were not good either.


    This design sketch was somewhat simr to Shi Ning''s style.


    She immediately pointed out several differences in the design sketches. A story circted in Yun City Snow Mountain came to her mind. She immediately modified and exined the story on site.


    "...So this time, the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and I should have used the same ce as inspiration for our designs."


    "The beauty of our Huaxia clothing often contains auspicious blessings and stories, especially such a moving and beautiful story like this."


    "In times when materials were scarce, embroidering them on clothes and passing them down toter generations was one of the ways we maintained our heritage."


    "Although my work is very simr to the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s, it is not giarism."


    "Can pieces using the same fabric but different colors and patterns be considered giarism?"


    "If so, then I dare say the clothes we each wear are all giarized."


    Rong Dai��s voice was as clear as a mountain spring, exining unhurriedly and calmly without any panic or fear.


    "Mr. Delsen, are you satisfied with my exnation?"


    "If you still think my work is giarized, then I have nothing more to say."


    She then shifted her words and looked towards the stunned Delsen.


    Being questioned like this, Delsen was a bit at a loss for words.


    "Delsen, if I remember correctly, you were the former Chief Design Director of TK, right?"


    Tao Yaofang spoke up.


    "I returned to China not long ago and coincidentally heard about the conflict between TK and Miss Rong. I won��t borate on TK��s matters since I''m sure everyone here is aware. "


    "As a Huaxia person and also one of the judges here, I am deeply honored."


    "I am willing to give up my judging rights this time, but I must rify this for Miss Rong''s work."


    "The beauty of Huaxia clothing lies in the auspicious blessings and stories embroidered on them. I don''t deny that the Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s work is great too."


    "But I personally prefer this touching story more."


    "To say Miss Rong''s work is giarized, that is probably the biggest joke I''ve heard all year!"


    "As we all know, there are irreconcble conflicts between TK, the Brocade Embroidery Workshop and Miss Rong."


    "Is The Wing of Fashion also going to associate with them?"


    Tao Yaofang''s words were very powerful. After she finished, she took off her name tag from her chest and put it on the table, voluntarily leaving her seat.


    Delsen''s expression changed immediately. Rong Dai caught a sh of chill in her eyes. So that''s how it is.


    "Tao, don''t get agitated. No one dares to make you leave this ce!"


    "Since that''s the case, we can give Miss Rong two days to recreate another piece."


    "Being able to use such a touching story as inspiration for her design, I believe in Miss Rong''s professional skills."


    Another judge hurriedly stood up to stop Tao Yaofang from leaving the scene and spoke facing Rong Dai.


    After discussing for a few minutes, the other judges and the event organizers'' staff unanimously agreed with this proposal.


    Rong Dai looked at that judge with slight gratitude in her eyes. She then smiled and shook her head, "No need, I can present another piece right now."

 Chapter 507: Terrified of Your Stupidity

    <h4>Chapter 507</h4>


    Everyone in the conference room was slightly surprised when she said that.


    Rong Dai took out another set of design drafts from her bag and handed it to the staff, her eyes ncing over the judges and organizers.


    "Everyone can take another look at whether this work is eligible to participate."


    She had a confident smile on her exquisite face, and her eyes looked deeply meaningful at Delsen.


    She was not sure how her work was leaked, but she was certain that the embroidery shop''s work was definitely giarized from her own.


    Her eyes were slightly cold, and she waited quietly for the on-site judges'' verdict.


    "Miss Rong, may I ask you to introduce this work?"


    The judge who had given her a chance earlier was holding her draft in his hand, with unconcealed astonishment in his eyes.


    Rong Dai smiled gently, "Of course."


    The staff immediately projected her work onto the screen. Rong Dai looked at the work on the screen and began to introduce it: "I named this work ''Snow Mountain Lovers''..."


    She introduced the work with ease and concision, from clothing to essories, as well as the story on the clothing. Her introduction was veryprehensive.


    The conference room was very quiet. After listening to her introduction, some people were still reluctant to stop.


    Tao Yaofang also couldn''t help but take another look at her. This draft was veryplete, and it also incorporated some Western elements, which was very novel.


    "Thank you Miss Rong for bringing such an excellent work. Please wait for good news."


    The judge spoke, and Rong Dai smiled gently and nodded, then left the conference room with Song Xuechun carrying her bag.


    After leaving the conference room, Rong Dai''s face suddenly turned cold.


    "Dai''er, this embroidery shop is really shameless!"


    As soon as she came out, Song Xuechun couldn''t help cursing!


    "As long as we know it in our hearts, don''t take action for now. Keep an eye on the time to contact Sister Nianzhi to see if there is any movement in China."


    Rong Dai gently patted her shoulder and ordered.


    This was her work, and she cared more than anyone else.


    But she was very clear about Xin Ziqing''s methods, it wouldn''t be so simple.


    Song Xuechun nodded. Both of them returned to the venue.


    The venue was filled with soothing jazz music. Wine and castles were a perfect match. The scenery was picturesque, and it was filled with celebrities. Many designers did note just for the grand prize.


    Just being able to appear here and get to know the top designers in the fashion industry, even if it was just a word or two of guidance, it was extremely beneficial.


    "You can walk around freely, it''s rare to see such a beautiful castle, I''ll sit by myself for a while."


    In the crowd, Rong Dai saw Xin Ziqing waving a wine ss in the distance at a nce.


    She put away the coldness in her eyes, and sent Song Xuechun away.


    Xin Ziqing watched her standing on the balcony for a long time. After letting Lan Qian go inquire about the situation in the conference room, a trace of viciousness shed through her eyes.


    This useless thing has improved a bit!


    But this makes it a little more interesting.


    She walked to Rong Dai''s side with a wine ss in her hand, a charming smile on her beautiful face: "It seems you''re notpletely useless after being reborn, you''ve made some progress."


    The ridicule in her words was unabashed.


    Rong Dai leaned her elbows on the balcony, tilted her head slightly, and nced at her indifferently with the corner of her eye: "You''re still the same, as sinister as ever."


    "But are you sure this matter will just pass like this? Do you need me to give you a hint? I''m really afraid of your stupidity."


    Xin Ziqing also leaned against the balcony, her voice coquettish but with a touch of mockery.

 Chapter 508: Fame Only stinks.

    <h4>Chapter 508</h4>


    "Although there are many fresh things here, they are truly boring. I don''t want you to retread the same path so quickly, otherwise I would be left without any more fun," said Xin Ziqing.


    "I enjoy watching you suffer and struggle. It truly gives me a different kind of pleasure!"


    Xin Ziqing continued speaking softly, her face wearing a seemingly charming and alluring smile that nevertheless revealed a touch of inexplicable viciousness and coldness.


    Rong Dai forcibly suppressed the hatred in her heart. ncing out of the corner of her eye with a faint smile, she said: "Is that so?"


    "I hope that you can still say those words in the future."


    She pulled her gaze back, gazing out at the scenic view of the manor.


    "If I were to use the Jinxiu Shop of giarism in front of all those judges, I would be underestimating myself far too much."


    She had already been on guard when the conference organizers used her of giarism.


    She did not refute that it was the Jinxiu Shop who giarized her work, but rather said that the inspiration for the designs from both shops came from the same source. These two statements had vastly different implications.


    Xin Ziqing stared at her, the smile on her beautiful face undiminished: "You''re not too stupid either, being able toe up with such a method to defuse the situation."


    Rong Dai nced at her: "If I had refuted that it was the Jinxiu Shop who giarized, I''m afraid my reputation in this circle would be ruined by now."


    "Being the first toe and first to im authority, if I had acted ording to my past temperament, I certainly would have done something so foolish."


    She did not deny her foolishness in her past life.


    But having been foolish once before, she would not make the same mistake a second time.


    "If I had refuted the usation, not only would I have been unable to wash away the suspicion of giarism, but it would have instead made people even more convinced that I was deliberately falsely using them, worsening my already terrible reputation."


    "Am I right?"


    She asked with an amused lilt, looking back at Xin Ziqing.


    Xin Ziqing looked at her, the smile on her beautiful face bing even more radiant. She nodded fairly straightforwardly: "Not bad."


    "It looks like your mind has indeed cleared up a bit, but did you think it would end with just this?"


    Rong Dai turned her head to look at her, an icy coldness mixed in with the dignity in her smile: "Xin Ziqing, you had best not act recklessly in front of me! Winning once does not mean you will win every time."


    Xin Ziqing smiled radiantly. Suddenly leaning in close to Rong Dai''s ear with her wine ss in hand, she spoke in a voice that only the two of them could hear:


    "Is that so? Then I will wait and see just how much ability you, Lady Rong, actually possess."


    "What if I were to tell President Huo about your affairs?"


    Rong Dai stared into her eyes, suppressing the churning hatred and anger in her heart. A smile even more radiant than before appeared on her beautiful face.


    She suddenly reached out and pinched Xin Ziqing''s chin, applying enough force that Xin Ziqing had no choice but to stand on her tiptoes and crane her neck closer. The intense exotic fragrance on Xin Ziqing''s body also drilled into her nose.


    "Go ahead and try. I lost to His Majesty, not you."


    "To repay debts from my past life in this life, that doesn''t sound too bad either."


    "My Lady, we have a long road ahead."


    Having said that, she released her hand.


    Xin Ziqing staggered slightly, the red wine in her hand swaying and spilling a few drops onto her skirt.


    Her expression froze for a moment, but it quickly vanished. The smile on her face still maintained the elegance andposure that it should have.


    "I''ll be waiting."


    Having said that, Xin Ziqing left with her wine ss.


    Rong Dai watched her retreating figure, a coldness swirling in the depths of her eyes.


    She turned around, leaning against the balcony. She took a deep breath, suppressing the churning hatred and anger in her heart.


    She understood Xin Ziqing''s methods. Things would definitely not end so simply.


    There were not many designers who came to participate in thepetition, only about twenty or so. Most of them brought students or assistants to gain experience.


    As a result, the organizers'' screening process was very quick, but the results would only be evaluated and announced three dayster.


    And over those three days, under the organizers'' arrangements, the participants would tour the exhibitions and experience the local fashion elements here.

 Chapter 509: Told by General Huo

    <h4>Chapter 509</h4>


    When Zong Che came back, he happened to see the scene of Rong Dai talking with Xin Ziqing, and couldn''t help frowning. He found Song Xuechun and asked her about what happened in the conference room before going to find Rong Dai.


    "Do I need to make separate arrangements for your schedule over the next three days?"


    Rong Dai looked back at him: "No need. Since I''m here to learn, I can''t be a prima donna."


    More importantly, she didn''t want the organizers of Fashion Wings to think she was throwing her weight around. Even less did she want to give Xin Ziqing more leverage over her.


    Zong Che nodded and looked at her for a few moments before hesitantly telling her about it.


    "I''ve already told Chairman Huo that there was absolutely no problem with the design drafts when they were with me."


    "I''m not saying this to shirk responsibility, but because I want to find out where the problem urred."


    "I''ve already sent Lu Nianzhi a message back home. She''ll keep an eye on things on the Jinxiu Store side."


    Rong Dai nodded. "The problem didn''t happen on your end. I know where it happened."


    She recalled that when she was working on the design drafts in Yun Cheng, a foreign tourist had suddenly taken a photo of her and her husband.


    If she remembered correctly, she was still holding the design drafts at that time.


    It was a pity that she hadn''t thought much of it back then!


    Now if she wanted to find that foreigner, it would be like looking for a needle in the ocean.


    "Let''s put the design draft issue on hold for now. We have no evidence. Making any statements now would only make us seem like we''re covering things up."


    Rong Dai advised him, preupied with other matters in her mind.


    Zong Che naturally understood this reasoning, but this matter couldn''t just be let go!


    "Don''t worry, we''ll find a loophole in this matter."


    Seeing the cold look and confident smile on his face, Rong Dai lightly cautioned him again.


    Zong Che wasn''t a gossipy person. Although he was puzzled about her feud with Xin Ziqing, he didn''t pry any further.


    ncing at his watch, he saw the organizers and judgese out and asked her, "Do you need me to arrange a dinner appointment with Ms. Tao?"


    Rong Dai thought about it briefly before nodding. "Arrange it."


    Although she had only met Tao Yaofang once before, her words in the conference room had warmed Rong Dai''s heart.


    She was grateful to Tao Yaofang even though she knew the help was only because of Huo Shao Ting.


    "Alright, I''ll let you know the time after I''ve made the arrangements."


    "Drink less alcohol at the party tonight." ncing at his watch again, Zong Che reminded her and added, "Mr. Huo''s orders."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly. "Got it."


    The wine reception ended at noon. Although the organizers had arranged a hotel for meals, Rong Dai had worn high heels all morning and her feet were tired. So she went back to her hotel first, nning to rest before attending the evening party.


    But her recurring headache suddenly red up again. Ever since returning from the vige, she''d been getting frequent headaches.


    Rong Dai didn''t think too much of it. With Zong Che being a grown man, it wasn''t right for him to apany her. And it was Song Xuechun''s first rare trip abroad, so of course she''d be curious about everything.


    Plus there were bodyguards stationed at the hotel, so Rong Dai let the two go about their business while she took a hot shower by herself andy down to rest.


    Before she knew it, she had slept until nighttime, and her headache still hadn''t gone away. She even felt a little dizzy and unsteady.


    The doorbell suddenly rang and Rong Dai had to get up to answer it.


    "Hey there, beautiful Orientaldy!"


    As soon as Rong Dai opened the door, the sharp smell of alcohol and cloying perfume filled her nostrils.

 Chapter 510: It鈥檚 called Playing Hard to Get.

    <h4>Chapter 510</h4>


    Before Rong Dai could react to what was happening, she felt a heavy weight on her shoulder, and her vision was suddenly shrouded in shadow.


    "So Eastern women are this open too, I like it!" The bearded man said as he pushed her shoulder.


    Rong Dai''s legs went soft, and she staggered back a few steps. The man took advantage and pushed her into the room, reaching to pinch her chin. His eyes were full of excitement.


    Rong Dai''s aching head snapped to attention, and she reflexively pped back, "Insolent!"


    To dare to take such tant advantage of her!


    The bearded man was shocked somewhat sober by the p, and immediately red up in anger. He strode forward and viciously grabbed her wrist, practically throwing her onto the big bed!


    Rong Dai''s head pounded in pain, and her whole body felt vaguely unwell.


    This feeling... it was as if she desperately craved a man toe near her!


    Moreover, this strong perfume scent was like a spell, arousing the primal desires in her body!


    Rong Dai was greatly shocked!


    Seeing the man beside her tearing off his clothes, she was filled with horror and rage!


    Where had the guards stationed at the door gone?!


    She wanted to cry for help, but her body felt like it was on fire, scorching hot and ravenous, tearing at her like a starving beast!


    The bizarre sensations wracking her body chilled Rong Dai''s heart. Watching the pouncing man, she took the opportunity to roll off the bed when he wasn''t paying attention, stumbling as she tried to run out.


    But the door was locked!


    Rong Dai''s face paled in shock and anger. In her mind shed the words Xin Ziqing had said to her today.


    "Did you think it would end that easily?"


    "What if President Huo finds out about this?"


    She suddenly understood!


    So this is what she meant!


    But when had she fallen into their trap?!


    Rong Dai couldn''t figure it out, and the situation gave her no time to think!


    The man had already been provoked by her p. Seeing Rong Dai still avoiding him, his face twisted in even greater fury!


    Rong Dai pounded the door desperately twice, but it didn''t budge at all. There was no sound from outside either.


    Seeing the fruit knife ced on the cab, she grabbed it in one motion, pointing it at the man as she struggled to remain calm, "Don''te any closer, or I won''t be polite!"


    "I didn''t ask you here! No matter why you came to my room, please leave immediately!"


    But because of the drug in her system, her voice came out soft and weak,pletelycking any force!


    Let alone making threats!


    "Oh - I understand!"


    "In China, you call this... what was it, ying hard to get, right?"


    "Oriental beauties are so charming, I like it!"


    The man''s eyes glinted wickedly, his previous anger vanishing entirely, reced by raging excitement!


    Rong Dai''s face darkened. Her mind grew muddled, conjuring illusions before her eyes.


    Seeing the approaching man, she bit down hard on her tongue. The pain and taste of blood cleared her head somewhat.


    "I already told you,e any closer and I won''t be polite!"


    A vicious light entered her eyes, and her words grew sharper, "My body belongs to my fiance, don''t you dare covet what isn''t yours!"


    But the man was unmoved, his excitement growing even more, "Oriental beauties really are so fiery, I like it!"


    Rong Dai pressed her bloodied lips tightly together, her eyes shing ruthlessly. In one swift motion, she stabbed the knife deep into the man''s thigh.


    She knew some medicine, so this blow didn''t hit anything fatal, but it was enough to prevent the man from harming her further.


    The man screamed and fell to the ground, cursing her in garbled words!


    Rong Dai coldly nced at him, cing the knife on the table. She took two belts out of the closet and used them to tie up the man''s hands and feet.


    When she finished, her whole body was drenched in sweat.

 Chapter 511: Do You Want More of Your Happiness

    <h4>Chapter 511</h4>


    Looking at the man with an abnormalplexion, Rong Dai went to find a coat to put on and washed her face with cold water in the bathroom.


    She poured a ss of water and added a few ice cubes from the fridge.


    While contacting Zong Che on her phone, she couldn''t figure out where the bodyguard at the door of this room had gone?!


    Zong Che was negotiating some projects that would benefit Mu Lan Xiang. Seeing the message she sent, his expression changed. He immediately returned to the hotel.


    When he arrived at Rong Dai''s room, he found no bodyguards. Also, the door was locked from outside.


    Zong Che immediately contacted the hotel manager and had someone open the lock. When he asked to check the surveince footage, his request was denied.


    But he was more concerned about Rong Dai''s safety now. After breaking down the door and seeing Rong Dai safe and sound on the sofa drinking iced water, he felt relieved.


    Rong Dai nced at him coldly.


    "Close the door."


    Zong Che did as she said and turned to look at her: "It was my negligence..."


    Rong Dai shook her head: "It was my carelessness. Don''t me yourself."


    Xin Ziqing, you''re so vicious!


    Ruining her reputation first and tainting her innocenceter!


    "Get someone to investigate this person''s identity. We probably can''t obtain the hotel surveince either. We can only find evidence from him."


    Rong Dai finished her iced water. The difort in her body finally disappearedpletely.


    She gestured with her chin for Zong Che to investigate the tied-up foreign man in front of them.


    "I''m the son of the owner of this hotel! This is kidnapping! I''ll get mywyer! You''ll see me in court!"


    The man stabbed by Rong Dai and tied up like this was very annoyed!


    Rong Dai couldpletely understand what he was saying. She stood up condescendingly staring at him: "Sir, you want to sue me? Are you sure you won''t end up behind bars first?"


    "I''m the guest of this room. Not only did you break into my room, you meant to assault me too."


    "You tell me, which side does thew stand on?"


    "Indeed this is not Huaxia. If you try to obstruct this, I really can''t do anything to you."


    Rong Dai''s eyes were icy cold. She got up and took the fruit knife still stained with the man''s blood from the cab.


    She squatted in front of the man. Her charming face had an ominous smile as the blood-stained fruit knife slid down from his chest to his abdomen.


    "I don''t know you. You broke into my room. I can understand it as you being misled and set up."


    "If you''re willing to provide clues, I can consider letting you go."


    Her voice was very soft, but the coldness on her face didn''t diminish at all.


    Zong Che was on the phone contacting friends andwyers in France. This was not domestic China. If things got out of hand, Rong Dai might be taken to the police station.


    That would make things much moreplicated to deal with!


    Especially since it would also damage Rong Dai''s reputation!


    "But you''re in my hands now. If I''m not well-off..."


    "Sir, do you still want future happiness?"


    The cold sharp knife stopped at the man''s vulnerable spot. Rong Dai stared into his eyes. Her eyes were icy and stern.


    The man shuddered violently. His panicked eyes lowered to look at the fruit knife, and his face instantly turned ghastly pale, as if he also sobered up a bit.


    "I... Someone called me and told me toe to your room. I thought it was you who invited me!"


    The man was nervous, looking up in panic at the two people. His drunkenness disappeared instantly!


    "What did the person look like?"


    Not waiting for Rong Dai to ask, Zong Che suppressed his raging anger and bent down to grab the man''s neck and question him!


    The man''s neck swelled painfully from Zong Che''s grip. After a violent coughing fit, he exined with tears in his eyes: "I... I don''t know! It was a woman. She just reported the room number. So I came..."


    "I saw this beauty at the equestrian field the other day and remembered her... I thought she wanted some thrill. This kind of thing is not umon nowadays."


    The man felt extremely wronged and annoyed.

 Chapter 512: I Was Faithful to My Husband.

    <h4>Chapter 512</h4>


    "F*ck you, bullsh*t!"


    Zong Che cursed angrily, on the verge of resorting to violence.


    This was the first major failure he had encountered since he started working.


    Rong Dai gestured for him to calm down.


    With her knowledge of pharmacology and medical skills, she knew that a heavily drunk person wouldn''t be able to perform such actions.


    Moreover, the scent of perfume she had detected earlier from the foreign man had already faded, or even disappeared.


    A man of his status would never use cheap perfume.


    It could only mean that the scent she had detected earlier was from a potion that incited her desires.


    And the smell was somewhat simr to what she had smelled on Xin Ziqing during the day.


    "First, I didn''t make an appointment with you."


    "Second, I have a husband, and I''m faithful to him. I wouldn''te out seeking any kind of excitement."


    "Third, I just want to say, sir, you''ve been manipted."


    Rong Dai put the knife down on the table and sat back on the sofa, exining coldly while fixing her gaze on the man.


    From his current state, it was evident that something was off about him.


    The foreign man seemed momentarily stunned, looking at the two of them with suspicion, but didn''t dare to offend Rong Dai.


    This woman dared to be so ruthless, even directly threatening him with a knife!


    If she truly ruined his happiness, he would be finished!


    "Honestly tell me about your whereabouts tonight!"


    Suppressing his anger, Zong Che opened his phone and began recording.


    The man cooperated, nodding obediently.


    "Could you lend me a jacket? It''s embarrassing like this."


    The man looked at Zong Che and made a request. He had been so agitated earlier that he nearly stripped off his clothes.


    Zong Che pursed his lips and picked up the man''s shirt from the floor, covering him with it.


    Only then did the foreign man begin recollecting his night.


    "What about the security guards outside the door?"


    Zong Che was annoyed. These people were here to protect Rong Dai, yet they were nowhere to be seen at a critical moment!


    What kind of security personnel were they?


    The foreign man avoided eye contact, lowered his head in embarrassment, and coughed softly, "I... had them knocked out."


    "What the hell..." Zong Che was furious.


    It was the first time he had been this angry!


    "Don''t you know that''s illegal?!"


    Zong Che kicked the man''s thigh in anger!


    The foreign man was both angry and aggrieved, staring at him with red eyes. "Of course, I know! But the woman on the phone said there were guards watching, and she couldn''t let me in. What could I do?"


    Zong Che was speechless. He stood with his hands on his waist, looking up at the ceiling, wanting to kill someone!


    Rong Dai listened quietly to the man''s exnation, signaling Zong Che to calm down.


    "Since you''re also a victim, I hope we can check your call records and ess the hotel''s surveince footage."


    "That''s impossible! That''s my privacy! I turned off the surveince on this floor, and there is no footage to help you."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the man immediately shook his head resolutely, refusing!


    Rong Dai frowned, and Zong Che had the urge to punch someone!


    Just as the two were interrogating the man, the door of the room suddenly burst open!


    A plump woman led seven or eight ck bodyguards wielding baseball bats into the room, and upon seeing Rong Dai, they treated her as if she were their archenemy!


    "Lady! Protect me! I''ll promise you anything!"


    When the woman entered, the foreign man instantly lost his nerve! Rong Dai furrowed her brows, puzzled, as she looked at him. The foreign man was so frightened that he rolled onto the ground, wriggling his body like a worm.


    "She''s my wife! Lady, save me!"


    The foreign man gazed at his fierce and menacing wife, his spirit shaken to its core! He elerated his worm-like movements, desperately trying to crawl away!

 Chapter 513: What She Won鈥檛 Find

    <h4>Chapter 513</h4>


    Rong Dai and Zong Che were left in awe by the actions of the foreign man!


    Seeing the burly man in the room, Rong Dai gestured for Zong Che to step aside and focused her gaze on the foreign woman, exining the situation.


    "This is a foreign country, and she is unaware of when Xin Ziqing arrived and who is behind her."


    Since she dared to scheme against herself, she must have prepared a foolproof n!


    This has always been Xin Ziqing''s way of doing things; she wouldn''t leave any evidence against herself.


    "Madam, both your husband and I are victims in this matter."


    "If you don''t believe me, there is a possibility that I might die from your strike."


    "But your husband and you will spend the rest of your lives in prison."


    "I believe we can sit down and discuss how to resolve this matter."


    "I don''t know who timely and coincidentally informed you toe here. If you don''t believe me, you can check my flight details, investigate any information about me."


    "If you know my husband, you would know that I am incapable of doing such a disgraceful thing."


    Calmly exining, Rong Dai took out a photo of herself and Huo Shao Ting and handed it to the man''s wife to examine.


    Her words made the foreign woman hesitate, casting a doubtful nce at Rong Dai before epting her phone and carefully inspecting the photo.


    Holding her phone, the foreign woman spoke some words in her nativenguage to the male bodyguard beside her, who immediately took pictures and made calls to investigate.


    The foreign woman was not foolish; Rong Dai''s words also aroused her suspicions.


    If she had barged in and seen her husband entangled with this Eastern woman, she wouldn''t have listened to her exnation so calmly.


    But what she saw was her husband being tied up, with other men in the room.


    "Bring him out!"


    For now, the foreign woman temporarily spared Rong Dai, but she showed no mercy towards her husband!


    With a fierce and malevolent expression, she gave the order, and two bodyguards lifted the trembling man who had huddled behind the sofa.


    The foreign man cried and begged in front of the woman, clinging to her legs.


    Observing this scene, Rong Dai found it incredibly ridiculous.


    A cowardly and spineless creature!


    "You, sit down, and I will investigate! And what about the injuries on my husband''s leg? What happened?!"


    Although she chose to temporarily believe Rong Dai, the foreign woman was still protective when she saw the bloody wound on her husband''s thigh.


    Rong Dai nodded, signaling Zong Che to remain calm, and sat down by the sofa.


    "May I make a phone call?"


    She raised her head and calmly asked the woman.


    With seven or eight burly men present, if they were to truly resort to violence, both she and Zong Che would be finished.


    The woman hesitated for a moment but eventually agreed.


    Rong Dai unlocked her phone and dialed the number Huo Shao Ting had asked her to remember beforeing to France.


    At this time, the localwyer and friend that Zong Che had contacted also arrived. Seeing that the call was connected, Rong Dai walked over to the window to speak.


    "Are you sure there is no evidence?"


    Meanwhile, in another hotel room, Xin Ziqing held a ss of wine and took a sip, looking at Lan Qian and asking a question.


    Lan Qian nodded, "Don''t worry! She won''t be able to find out!"


    "The potions were specially developed by the professor. Once the effects wear off, there won''t be any traces."


    Xin Ziqing nodded with satisfaction, "How is the video editing?"


    The foreign man, who was operating theputer, made an "OK" gesture. Lan Qian ced a stack of US dors and a card on the table.


    "After taking the money, disappear in Paris. You haven''t done this, nor have you seen us."


    "Otherwise, you know the consequences of betraying the professor."


    Lan Qian gave a cold order.


    The man nodded, then presented the edited video that had already been uploaded to a foreign socialworking site for the two to review.

 Chapter 514: The Queen of the Most Useless

    <h4>Chapter 514</h4>


    Xin Ziqing looked at the video seriously, very satisfied. The physical pain seemed not as strong as before.


    Taking a life here was not as casual as one might think, but torturing Rong Dai like this...


    Watching her reputation be ruined bit by bit until she was groveling at Xin Ziqing''s feet begging for mercy, Xin enjoyed this process even more.


    "Leak this to the domestic media. They will definitely be very interested."


    "This is big news about Madam Huo. We don''t even need to manipte it, they will make this news trending themselves."


    "I really want to see, after a man has been cuckolded like this, if he will still dote on that stupid woman like before."


    "Other than using her looks to fool men for a moment, that stupid woman is the most useless queen I have ever seen."


    A mocking smile hung on Xin Ziqing''s charming face, her tone full of ridicule and arrogance as she ordered Lan Xian.


    Lan Xian nodded without asking for her reasons. She immediately called several high-profile domestic media outlets.


    When the media received this news, they immediately used VPNs to find the overseas media tforms that had published it.


    Although the edited video didn''t show anything substantial, just the content was enough to set imaginations running wild!


    In order to grab the first-hand hype, these media outlets directly reposted the overseas tform, examining every frame of the video closely.


    #Huo Corporation Young Madam Rong Dai Secretly Meets Burly Man Abroad!#


    #Magnolia CEO Rong Dai Cheats! Huo Shao Ting Cuckolded!#


    As soon as the media reported it, these two trending topics immediately made it to the top of the news, being shared at an astonishing rate per minute.


    Rong Dai''s personal ount and Magnolia''s official ount were quickly flooded with unspeakable words!


    Huo Mei Shu, who managed thepany''s tforms and Rong Dai''s personal ount, saw the unexined verbal abuse and immediately went online to find out what was going on.


    "This... Sister Nian Zhi!"


    Huo Mei Shu was panic-stricken, even her voice cracking.


    Lu Nianzhi''s brows were knotted tightly as she looked at the shocking words online and the crazily reposted video. Her face was ck as the bottom of a pot.


    "I''ll contact Zong Chu right away to ask about the situation. Sister Jing, Magnolia''s capabilities are limited right now, I''m afraid we can''t handle PR for this. We need to contact President Huo immediately!"


    Although the video didn''t show anything substantial, it clearly captured Rong Dai opening the door for a foreign man to push her inside, as well as the scene of Rong Dai being thrown onto the big bed inside the room.


    Just these two points were enough to ruin Rong Dai!


    Ran Jing also knew the gravity of the situation. Without hesitation she immediately called Huo Shao Ting.


    When Huo Shao Ting received Ran Jing''s call, Assistant Zhang had just shown him the news.


    Seeing the scene in the short video of Rong Dai being thrown onto the bed, Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were so sharp they could kill!


    Assistant Zhang was still about a meter away from him, but couldn''t help shivering all over!


    "President, the news can''t be contained now. Too much reposting, it''s already beyond public rtions."


    Assistant Zhang plucked up his courage to report.


    When he saw this news, he had almost pissed himself!


    The madam cheating was impossible, even if the Earth exploded it would still be impossible!


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t instruct Ran Jing on how to handle it, only telling her not to let Magnolia panic.


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes were icy cold. His long, slender fingers tapped absently on the desk. He gestured for Assistant Zhang to leave first.

 Chapter 515: Did It Hurt

    <h4>Chapter 515</h4>


    After contacting someone, Rong Dai took a look at the time on her phone and immediately sent Huo Shao Ting a text message.


    The text message was not tooplicated, with only one sentence: Trust me.


    When Huo Shao Ting received her text message, his knuckles holding the phone turned white.


    Of course he trusted her, he was just more worried about whether she was injured!


    He immediately called back. Seeing his iing call, Rong Dai hesitated for a moment before answering.


    "Shao Ting..."


    "Are you hurt?"


    She had just spoken when Huo Shao Ting''s anxious voice came through.


    Rong Dai frowned. Just as she was about to ask, Zong Che''s face changed drastically as he showed her the news on his phone.


    Her face immediately darkened.


    Cheating!


    Cheating again!


    "Let me finish handling things here first, then I''ll get back to you, okay?"


    Rong Dai did not exin immediately.


    "Okay."


    Huo Shao Ting responded, and couldn''t help asking her one more question before she hung up: "Are you really sure you don''t need me to step in?"


    Rong Dai''s eyes were extremely cold, her gaze fixed on the window across from the hotel.


    "Let''s just stick to what we agreed on before."


    Xin Ziqing.


    She had to deal with this woman personally!


    After Huo Shao Ting gave her a few more words of caution, the husband and wife hung up.


    As Rong Dai looked at the ck screen of her phone and turned to speak to the couple, a group of tall, sturdy men in suits and dark sunsses suddenly swarmed into the room.


    The two bodyguards leading them were even armed with two ck rifles, aggressive and murderous.


    The foreign couple was stunned, and byparison, the bodyguards brought by the foreign woman could only be described as hooligans, with their baseball bats looking extremely silly.


    "Mrs. Huo!"


    While Rong Dai and Zong Che were still in shock, someone with not very authentic Chinese ent called out from outside the door.


    A foreign man in casual clothes, holding a peach wood cane, walked in.


    The man exuded an air of gentlemanliness, looking to be in his early forties. He walked with a slight limp in his left leg, but it did not detract from his bearing.


    On the ring finger of his right hand he wore a blood diamond carved into a skull, adding a touch of sinister entricity.


    When this man appeared, Rong Dai noticed that the couple''s faces had turned deathly pale, and they even trembled a little.


    "This... Mr. Huo Busi!"


    While Rong Dai and Zong Che did not recognize this figure, thewyer Zong Che had brought did, and he greeted the man respectfully yet fearfully.


    A benign smile appeared on Huo Busi''s face. When he saw Rong Dai, there was a gleam in his eyes, but it soon resumed itsposure.


    "I am Huo Busi. If I had known earlier that Mrs. Huo was visiting Paris, I would have definitelye to wee you."


    "I''m truly sorry that you suffered such a shock in Paris. I will personally take care of the follow-up matters."


    "Since it is ratherte now, Mrs Huo, please feel free to rest at the new hotel I just opened."


    "Rest assured Mrs Huo, no one would dare offend you at my hotel."


    Huo Busi spoke very courteously as he made way for her.


    Rong Dai was taken aback for a moment, recalling the phone call she had just made.


    "That is my private number, and globally only three people own that number. Now there is one more person added to that list, and I feel honored to get to know such a beautifuldy like Mrs Huo!"


    It was as if Huo Busi could guess her thoughts, and he promptly offered an exnation.


    Only then did Rong Dai understand. A poised smile appeared on her face as she reached out her hand, "I''m truly sorry for disturbing your rest sote."


    Huo Busi seemed quite familiar with Chinese etiquette. He politely shook her hand briefly before letting it go, "I''m honored that Mrs Huo gave me her number."


    "Please leave the matters here to me now. What do you think?"

 Chapter 516: I Took matters into My Own Hands

    <h4>Chapter 516</h4>


    Rong Dai nced at the couple, her eyes profoundly deep.


    "Mr. Huo Busi, I''d like to handle this matter personally."


    The grievance between her and Xin Ziqing was theirs alone, she could not leave it to others.


    Although rejected, Huo Busi was not the least bit displeased, but his gaze towards the couple was extremely cold.


    The terrified couple shivered as they looked at Rong Dai, their eyes full of panic and pleading.


    "Madam, I truly did not know you were Mr. Huo Busi''s esteemed guest..."


    The woman anxiously tried to exin.


    Although Rong Dai was unclear just how frightening Huo Busi''s status actually was, the fact that Shaoting had introduced her to him meant this man''s capabilities were acknowledged.


    She interrupted the woman''s words: "As I already said earlier, both myself and this gentleman are victims in this matter."


    "All that is needed is for the gentleman to cooperate with our investigation to make clear what happened, then everyone can be at ease."


    They were overseas, where many matters were not easily handled.


    Avoiding conflict with these people was best, she understood well the troubles stirred up by petty characters.


    "Of course, no problem!"


    The couple responded almost in unison!


    Rong Dai pressed her lips together without replying, her gaze on the heavily crammed room of thugs.


    Huo Busi was adept at reading subtle cues. With but a look, he signaled all but two bodyguards to leave.


    Seeing this, the foreign woman also quickly dismissed her own people.


    Rong Dai beckoned for those remaining to sit, but the couple took one look at Huo Busi and vehemently shook their heads, refusing while still quivering in fear.


    "Very well, whatever makes youfortable."


    Rong Dai nodded, sitting casually upon the sofa. Her eyes apologetically met Huo Busi''s: "I''m afraid I must trouble you for some of your resting time."


    Huo Busi smiled gently and courteously. "It is my honor to be of assistance, Madam."


    He too sat down, subtly reining in his imposing aura.


    Rong Dai dispensed with superfluous chat and fluently questioned thewyer Zong Che had called over.


    Thewyer respectfully and patiently answered her queries. When she was done, Rong Dai finally regarded the foreign man, thinking of the video''s content, her eyes grew piercingly cold!


    The foreign man wept woefully, quaking in fright without daring to meet her eyes.


    "To ensure impartiality, our conversation will be filmed and recorded. Does either of you have any objections?"


    The cowed couple swiftly shook their heads!


    Zong Che switched on his phone camera while thewyer readied his voice recorder.


    Rong Dai meticulously asked about the people the man had interacted with that night, but truthfully it was of little use.


    Her probing yielded scant gains. Rong Dai was not particrly discouraged by this, as such methods were simply Xin Ziqing''s usual style.


    This was something she really should study more herself.


    "No further questions. Additionally, I will need to keep the gentleman''s clothing, along with some of his hair. I will providepensation."


    Earlier her head had throbbed in agony, but her sense of smell was unaffected.


    When she had opened the door, it was the overpowering scent clinging to this man that had sapped her strength.


    In her past life, Xin Ziqing was a master of dosing drugs, and the modern age offered an even wider selection.


    "Of course, take whatever you need! Is this amount sufficient?"


    The foreign woman only longed to swiftly flee the room. As soon as she finished speaking, she immediately yanked out several of her husband''s hairs.


    The man winced in pain but dared not utter a word.


    Rong Dai signaled to Zong Che to bag the items.


    "Also, until this matter is resolved, I expect you both to remain silent and not attempt escaping from here."


    "This way, all of us will remain safest. Understand?"


    Having handled things, Rong Dai looked to the couple, her voice calm but carrying undeniable authority.


    The pathetic couple dared not refuse, willing even to knock their heads to the floor to acquiesce her!

 Chapter 517: How to Detain

    <h4>Chapter 517</h4>


    After the husband and wife left, only a few people were left in the room.


    Zong Che and thewyer automatically lowered their presence.


    "I need the gentleman''s help with something."


    She looked at Huo Busi, without beating around the bush.


    This favor was owed no matter what, so whether to use it or not was the same.


    She didn''t doubt Zong Che''s abilities, but Huo Busi would be more useful here.


    "Madam is too kind, please go ahead."


    Huo Busi''s face always maintained a in smile, but it was this look that gave people a chilling sense of unease.


    "I want to take these things to be tested."


    She gestured for Zong Che to bring over the foreign man''s clothes and hair, then went to find scissors herself and cut off a few strands of her own hair.


    If her head hadn''t hurt so badly this time, she might not have withstood the effects of the drug and directly fulfilled Xin Ziqing''s wish.


    "No problem, the results will be out tomorrow."


    Huo Busi agreed readily, signaling for his bodyguard to collect the items.


    Rong Dai turned her head, her eyes icy as she nced at the hotel across: "I''ll have to trouble the gentleman once more, the guest information for the room directly across from mine in that hotel."


    "I need all of it. This favor is one I owe Mr. Huo Busi."


    She looked at Huo Busi, thinking of Xin Ziqing, her gaze was chillingly sinister.


    Huo Busi''s smile remained gentle as ever, looking at her with slight surprise in his eyes.


    Thest person who could speak to him in such a tone was from many years ago.


    "No problem."


    He nodded in agreement, and stood up leaning on his cane.


    "It''ste, my car is at the hotel entrance. If Madam doesn''t mind, I have some fine wines in my collection, please feel free to sample them."


    Huo Busi extended an invitation.


    Rong Dai did not decline: "I wille shortly, please go ahead sir."


    A man as crafty as Huo Busi simply smiled and nodded before leaving with his men.


    Once he left, the invisible aura in the room dissipated.


    Only then did Zong Che have a chance to ask thewyer about Huo Busi''s background.


    Thewyer looked at him with eyes full of awe: "Zong, with Mr. Huo Busi''s involvement, I''m of little use now."


    "Mr. Huo Busi is France''s wealthiest tycoon, with connections in both legitimate business and the underworld. His power is tremendous, ordinary people can''t get ess to him."


    Thewyer exined, his gaze towards Rong Dai also bing more reverent.


    Rong Dai already expected this, she wasn''t very surprised by the result, simply instructing Zong Che to handle some matters.


    "The news must already be uncontainable domestically by now, contact Nian Zhi jiejie."


    "Tell her not to take any measures for now, let them sensationalize it."


    "Also have her pay special attention to which media outlets were the first to release such news, and trace it back to the source."


    "I know who the opponent is, but right now we need evidence."


    In her past life, she had been foolish enough to think the Emperor would trust her.


    Even knowing it was Xin Ziqing''s doing, she didn''t think to look for evidence.


    Instead, she pleaded her case passionately, and the oue was imaginable.


    Zong Che nodded. Rong Dai thought deeply for a moment, then asked thewyer: "If in Paris, what would be the best way to detain someone?"


    Upon hearing her ask this, a look of horror immediately showed in thewyer''s eyes. He nced unbelievingly at Zong Che.


    "Don''t worry sir, I only wish to understand your country''sws, so as not to make mistakes."


    Although suspicious, thewyer didn''t dare to slight her since she was Huo Busi''s honored guest. He carefully listed out some methods.

 Chapter 518: Be Clean

    <h4>Chapter 518</h4>


    After thewyer left, Rong Dai looked at Zong Che: "Can we find someone to do it here?"


    Zong Che frowned: "That''s not difficult, but we should deal with the news first, otherwise the negative impact on you will be too great."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head: "There is no need to care about this."


    Since the first day she came here, how few times has she been on the hot search?


    This is an opportunity. She needs to figure out who exactly is behind Xin Ziqing.


    If there was no one behind Xin Ziqing, she would not have been able to find her so quickly.


    And Xin Ziqing was never a woman who did things without assurance.


    Moreover, when she designed the costumes for the drama The Empress, it was also for consideration of this day.


    She did not change these costumes at all, and some of the essories were copied from Shang Yuan.


    And this name is the same name as her previous life, and the publicity activities of The Empress have also announced that the costumes were designed by herself.


    As long as it is someone who is reborn from Shang Yuan like her, finding clues, she must be able to find herself.


    She just didn''t expect the first "old friend" she met here to be Xin Ziqing.


    "Then let her stay for a few days, don''t get into trouble, do it cleaner."


    She instructed Zong Che.


    She was not unfamiliar with such means, she was just too arrogant in her previous life and disdained to use them.


    Zong Che nodded with a frown: "I will arrange for these security personnel to return home. If possible, I think we can hire a few from Mr. Huo Busi."


    This group of security personnel was personally arranged by Huo Shao Ting. In principle, such mistakes should not have urred.


    But it just happened!


    And almost caused a disaster!


    Rong Dai approved of his n: "I will talk to him about this. Send someone to pick up Xue Chun."


    "It''s sote, it''s not safe for her to be outside alone."


    After ordering these things, she packed up her personal belongings and left the room.


    When she arrived at the hotel entrance, Huo Busi''s car had been waiting for a long time.


    As soon as the driver saw here down, he immediately opened the side door and carefully escorted her into the car.


    "I''m really sorry to keep you waiting so long!"


    After getting into the car, Rong Dai sat gracefully and smiled slightly.


    Huo Busi looked at her: "It is my honor."


    The car quickly disappeared from the hotel entrance and steadily stopped in front of a magnificent castle-like hotel a few minutester.


    It was more like a private club manor rather than a hotel.


    When Rong Dai got out of the car, Huo Busi very gentlemanly reached out to support her.


    "Thank you."


    She was already used to these customs abroad, so she did not resist, holding his arm and getting out of the car.


    "Mr. Huo Busi, I''ve been waiting for you for so long, why did it take so long toe back..."


    As soon as the two stepped into the magnificent lobby with a touch of retro color, a charming and alluring female voice was heard.


    Immediately afterwards came a rush of fragrant wind.


    Rong Dai was very displeased with the pungent perfume smell, but she did not show it, only looking up at the iing person.


    The person was an exquisitely beautiful woman who looked twenty-six or seven years old with a slender and sexy figure!


    Wearing a silk nightgown, with nothing inside, very seductive.


    The woman''s eyes also stared at her, and a hint of surprise shed through them, along with some hostility.


    Although fleeting, Rong Dai still captured it.


    "I have a guest, you can go back to your room to rest."


    Huo Busi was very upset with her vulgar appearance, and his gentleplexion suddenly sank, his voice coldly ordering her.


    "No, I''ve been waiting for you for so long."


    "Keep mepany tonight! Business matters can be handled anytime. Is business more important than me? I came back as soon as I finished the work you assigned..."


    The woman coquettishly, very boldly and skillfully clinging to Huo Busi''s shoulders in front of everyone.


    While pretending to be charming, the woman''s gaze provocatively nced at Rong Dai, as if dering her dominance.


    She deliberately spoke in English, seeming worried that Rong Dai would not understand French.


    Rong Dai immediately looked away and chose to ignore the woman''s inexplicable hostility.


    The woman''s actions immediately angered Huo Busi. He nced at Rong Dai, raised his hand and pulled the woman off of him.


    "Send her back to her room! Don''t let her out without my order!"

 Chapter 519: This Time I Won鈥檛 Lose

    <h4>Chapter 519</h4>


    The woman was thrown to the ground, looking very startled, apparently not expecting Huo Busi to lose his temper.


    Before she could say anything, she was immediately taken away by the bodyguards, only able to stare at Rong Dai in angry iprehension.


    "I apologize for letting thedy see this embarrassing scene."


    Huo Busi''s face revealed his usual smile again as he led her upstairs.


    Rong Dai never liked discussing other people''s private affairs, she just smiled lightly and nodded, following him upstairs.


    Upstairs there was a small rooftop garden, where someone had already prepared fine wine and some snacks.


    After handing his cane to a bodyguard, Huo Busi went up and personally pulled out a chair for her.


    Rong Dai sat down calmly, and after Huo Busi had taken his seat, a pianist came in and sat down at the piano set up in the little garden, and started ying.


    "From here one can see Paris''s beautiful night view, mydy. Please try this fine wine."


    "I remember your country has a poem, Grape Wine in the Night Light Cup, correct?"


    Huo Busi asked her with a smile, raising his ss to lightly clink with hers.


    Rong Dai nodded, and took a small sip of the bright red wine, its rich fruity aroma filling her mouth and nose, though with a slightly sour tartness, its texture was extremely good.


    As the two were enjoying the fine wine in the little garden, a bodyguard came in carrying a tablet.


    Huo Busi looked at the news on it, then handed it to her: "Madam, take a look, does this matter require me to handle it?"


    Rong Dai put down her wine ss. The news on the tablet was about her, a local media report.


    "Yes, it does."


    She raised her head to look at him, then her gaze turned to linger on Paris''s charming night view, her eyes cold.


    "I''d like to know how this media organization got ess to these resources. I wonder if Mr. Huo Busi could investigate?"


    Huo Busi handed the tablet back to the bodyguard, while giving orders to look into it.


    "Thedy will have results by tomorrow."


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai nodded slightly, clinking sses with him. After chatting idly with him in the little garden for half an hour, she went upstairs to rest.


    After washing up, it was 2 AM local time, and it was also nighttime in China.


    Lying in bed, she wasn''t sleepy at all. She video called Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting picked up instantly. Seeing her face, the distress in his eyes was obvious - he desperately wished he could fly to her side right away!


    "Have you eaten dinner?"


    Seeing that he was still working onpany matters, Rong Dai felt sorry for him.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, and reached out to touch the phone screen, asking her: "Did you get hurt anywhere?"


    Having held her countless times, he naturally knew her weight very well.


    That bastard actually dared to throw his woman like that!


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head. Just seeing him extinguished the fiery anger burning inside her.


    "I''m fine. Macau arrived just in time. I can protect myself."


    After a pause, she looked at him on the screen guiltily: "I''ve brought trouble to you and thepany again."


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression immediately darkened: "If you talk like this, do you want me to book a flight there right now?"


    "I''ve told you, you''re my wife. Protecting you is my duty."


    "Anytime you need me, I stand behind you."


    He really couldn''t handle this little wife of his. How many more times did he need to repeat this before she would remember?


    Rong Dai immediately softened her gaze at him, and told him about Xin Ziqing.


    When she spoke about Xin Ziqing, her expression was extremely cold, even containing malice!


    Seeing her like this, Huo Shao Ting couldn''t help but frown.


    "I won''t lose this time, Shao Ting. Let''s proceed as we discussed before."


    "Believe in me. Because I have you by my side, I fear nothing."


    She looked at him firmly, her voice powerful.

 Chapter 520: You Can鈥檛 Fight if you want to.

    <h4>Chapter 520</h4>


    After a brief video call, the couple hung up. The two reached an agreement.


    That night, Rong Dai did not sleep well, and got up early. After asking the hotel staff, she changed into workout clothes and went to the gym.


    Ever since her miscarriage, Huo Shao Ting had put exercising on her daily schedule.


    Unluckily, she ran into the flirtatious woman fromst night at the gym.


    The woman was wearing tight workout clothes and practicing yoga in the gym.


    When she saw Rong Dai appear, hatred shed in her eyes!


    Rong Dai instinctively wanted to leave, but it was toote.


    "Wait!"


    The woman called out to her in English.


    Rong Dai stopped in her tracks, her gaze level as the furious woman strode towards her.


    "You Oriental woman! Simply cheap! Why seduce Mr. Huo Ersi? Don''t you know he''s mine?!"


    The woman was clearly still angry. She marched up and yelled at Rong Dai, raising her hand to p her!


    Rong Dai''s eyes turned cold. She grabbed the woman''s wrist with one hand, and backhanded her with the other!


    Her eyes were sharp, and her seemingly delicate body erupted with astonishing force. Her hand released, and the woman stumbled back and fell to the ground.


    The woman unbelievingly held her cheek, looking up furiously and confused at Rong Dai, cursing her shrilly in French!


    Rong Dai was in a bad mood. One after another, these women saw her and acted as if they had a deep hatred. At the slightest provocation, they wanted to p her.


    Seeing the woman cursing, Rong Dai''s face turned icy as she looked down at her. In fluent French, she coldly sneered, "Miss, we are strangers."


    "One, I have a husband."


    "Two, I know Mr. Huo Ersi through my husband."


    "You like using such vulgar methods to attract men. Do not lump me together with you!"


    "Lastly, I''m not someone you can just hit as you wish! In the future, consider your own capabilities before resorting to violence!"


    After scolding her, Rong Dai no longer had the mood to exercise. She turned and left.


    She was not an ignorant little girl. This woman was clearly kept by Huo Ersi, not even qualifying as a wife.


    There were countless beauties in this world, but no matter how beautiful, if they didn''t know better, their fate with a man like Huo Ersi would only be miserable.


    Mina was shocked, then angry!


    She had finally gotten the chance to climb up this big tree that was Huo Ersi. How could she let go so easily?


    She wasn''t an idiot. Even if this Oriental woman was married, so what?


    This woman was clearly a slut, or else what proper wife would let another man pick her up in the dead of night?


    This club was usually Huo Ersi''s ce for leisure and entertainment. Hardly any women could get in here.


    Plus, she had been by Huo Ersi''s side for so long without ever seeing this woman.


    Did this Oriental woman really think she could fool her?


    Mina''s expression turned vicious. Suddenly raising her hand, she pped both her own cheeks repeatedly until blood flowed from the corner of her mouth.


    She gritted her teeth in pain, hiding the viciousness in her eyes as she climbed up from the floor and left the gym.


    Rong Dai had no idea Mina could be so ruthless. She had just returned to her room when she saw Song Xuechun anxiously waiting outside.


    "Xuechun, why are you up so early?"


    Seeing her unharmed, Song Xuechun immediately rxed.


    "I should have apanied youst night."


    Song Xuechun med herself, especially after seeing the news. She was heartbroken and furious! She could explode!

 Chapter 521: Fire in Paris

    <h4>Chapter 521</h4>


    "I''m fine, everything is being taken care of, don''t worry," she said lightly as she opened the door to the guest room.


    Song Xuechun followed her in, seeing her so calm, she couldn''t help but feel anxious for her!


    "How can you not worry? If you weren''t so quick-witted, the story would be very different now!"


    "The domestic media still doesn''t know how to report you!"


    "I saw the news in Paris. You became an overnight sensation in Paris this morning, a ck sensation!"


    "Because of the TK incident before, Paris was already familiar with you. And now with this kind of thing... No one will care about the truth."


    Song Xuechun felt aggrieved.


    They had taken every precaution, yet she did not expect the danger overseas to be greater than domestic. With a tiny slip, such news came out.


    She had asked Zong Che, and that foreign turtle had also destroyed the hotel surveince. Did that not mean they had no evidence?


    Without strong evidence to refute, Rong Dai would be nailed to the pir of shame, allowing those keyboard warriors to vilify her!


    The cost of scolding someone domestically was too small. Even with Huo Shao Ting''s thunderous means, those warriors would not be afraid to die.


    Rong Dai raised her eyebrows, seemingly surprised. "ck sensation?"


    "It means the same as red hot sensation."


    Song Xuechun worried for her. Seeing her so nonchnt, she became even more irritated!


    "I think Huo Shao Ting has toe to handle this. This is overseas, we can''t handle it well."


    Rong Dai frowned slightly, her face rather cold. "Why does it have to be him? Isn''t everything being handled now?"


    So even the people around her thought this way.


    Huo Shao Ting could help resolve all her problems, while she herself was incapable.


    Seeing her turn cold, Song Xuechun realized she had spoken out of turn and hurried to exin, "Dai''er, I''m not doubting your ability!"


    "It''s just that this is overseas, not the same as domestic affairs. We are unclear about many matters."


    Rong Dai looked at her. "I understand what you mean, but I can resolve this matter."


    Her words were adamant and allowed no doubt!


    Song Xuechun opened her mouth, about to say more when the doorbell rang.


    Rong Dai said no more and went to answer the door.


    Perhaps because ofst night''s events, she did not unlock the door''s safety lock.


    Seeing the visitor was Huo Ersi''s personal bodyguard, she then undid the safety lock.


    The bodyguard looked at her respectfully, "Madam Huo, Master Huo Ersi invites you down to have breakfast with him. Your friend cane along too."


    Rong Dai nodded. "I''ll be down shortly."


    The bodyguard bowed his head and stood straight outside the door.


    "Have you had breakfast?" she asked Song Xuechun.


    Song Xuechun shook her head. As Rong Dai went to fetch her clothes, she said, "Thene down with me. Huo Ersi invited us."


    Song Xuechun hurriedly nodded. Rong Dai went into the wardrobe room to change and tidy up her make up.


    Ten minutester, the two followed the bodyguard downstairs.


    She wore a long blue and white porcin g cheongsam, embroidered high heels, a pearl ne around her graceful swan neck, elegant and dignified.


    When she came down, Huo Ersi was stunned by her beauty!


    "I''ve kept you waiting."


    Rong Dai had a faint smile on her face, gentle yet distanced, not to be sphemed.


    "It''s my honor to wait for Madam," Huo Ersi said mildly as he signaled the bodyguard to pull out chairs for them.


    "This is my ssmate, also my studio partner, Song Xuechun."


    After sitting down, Rong Dai did not forget to introduce Song Xuechun.

 Chapter 522: I Accept the Apology

    <h4>Chapter 522</h4>


    Song Xuechun was a bit nervous and ill at ease, nodding and bowing, making a fool of herself all at once.


    Huo Ersi didn''t mind at all, just smiling lightly and having the meal brought up.


    The breakfast was prepared very delicately and nutritiously.


    The three of them had just eaten halfway when Mina came running over pitifully with her swollen face that she had hit herself, and the bodyguards couldn''t stop her.


    "Huo Ersi, this Oriental woman is too hateful!"


    "You know I keep my figure by doing yoga every day, but this morning at the gym, she hit me for no reason!"


    "Huo Ersi, how can I work like this, how can I go out and see people like this?"


    Mina cried pitifully.


    Rong Dai frowned, not expecting that this Western woman would also use the tactic of making false usations first. Only Song Xuechun looked confused.


    Huo Ersi was very unhappy about having his meal interrupted, and red at the bodyguards.


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, I did hit her."


    Rong Dai put down her utensils to stop the bodyguards.


    She dabbed her lips with a napkin, nced at Huo Ersi, and her gaze coldly swept over Mina.


    Huo Ersi was slightly surprised. He knew Mina''s personality clearly.


    He nevercked for women around him, and Mina was different from those in the past, so he had just let her use these tactics.


    He would turn a blind eye, but Rong Dai was different. She was Huo Shaoting''s wife.


    If she was wronged in his own territory, he would have no way to exin it to Huo Shaoting.


    "It''s just that thisdy''s words today were very insulting to me! I and Mr. Huo Ersi are merely friends."


    "I don''t know where thisdy got the idea that I have an unusual rtionship with Mr. Huo Ersi?"


    "I can understand you wanting to defend your position, but for you to want to hit me as soon as you came up, I''m not easy to provoke either."


    "That p was to give thedy a reminder to be mindful of her own status."


    "Use your brain a bit more to think about whether you''re a person or a dog."


    Rong Dai looked straight at Mina without any fear, her words ice-cold and powerful!


    Her words made Mina''s face go pale with shame and anger!


    This Oriental woman actually dared to call her a dog?!


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, I really must apologize for causing you trouble."


    Having said that, she looked calmly at Huo Ersi to apologize.


    "Although I don''t know how thisdy managed to swell her face like this, it''s possible that Oriental martial arts are quite formidable, and my strength is greater."


    "I''ll fully pay thisdy''s medical expenses, how about that?"


    Huo Ersi looked at her, a hint of appreciation shing through the depths of his eyes.


    If it were another woman who was dealt with by Mina this way, she definitely wouldn''t dare admit it so readily in front of him.


    This Oriental woman made him feel very interested.


    "It''s fine, I think thedy understood what was said earlier," Huo Ersi said meaningfully as he looked at Mina. Although the smile on his face was very gentle, it made Mina feel very chilled.


    Mina was shocked and bewildered. She hadn''t expected that what the Oriental woman said was true!


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, I..."


    She shrank back all at once.


    Huo Ersi looked at her: "You offended Madam Huo, you shouldn''t apologize to me."


    Mina wasn''t stupid, and immediately understood. She looked pleadingly at Rong Dai: "I''m sorry Madam Huo! Can you forgive me?"


    Although she said this with her mouth, in her heart she hated Rong Dai to death!


    This Oriental woman was simply hateful and detestable!


    Since she didn''t have a rtionship with Huo Ersi, why didn''t she say so earlier?!


    Wasn''t this harming her?!


    She looked at Mina and pondered slightly. Although she could say this woman was a ything raised by Huo Ersi, there was some truth in the old saying about seeing the master when beating a dog.


    She couldn''t contradict Huo Ersi in this matter of face.


    "I ept your apology," she said lightly.

 Chapter 523: You鈥檙e the First

    <h4>Chapter 523</h4>


    Mina looked at Huo Ersi, feeling a little wronged and pitiful.


    "Since thedy has spoken, why haven''t you gone to pack up? Apany me to the galleryter."


    Huo Ersi''s face did not reveal any joy or anger.


    Upon hearing these words from him, Mina felt greatly relieved and hurriedly left in embarrassment.


    Having been disturbed by Mina like this, the three of them naturally no longer had any mood to continue with breakfast.


    Huo Ersi looked at Rong Dai while receiving the information from his bodyguard: "The things thedy requested will need some more time. Here is the information from the media side."


    "This is the guest registration information for the room across the hall from thedy''s hotel room. Last night a signal was made from that room."


    "It''s just a pity it used a virtualwork, so there is no way to trace it."


    "The guest''s registration information is just an ordinary civilian, nothing particrly special about him."


    "My subordinates have already inquired, someone just gave him some money to book that room, he doesn''t know anything else."


    Although Rong Dai expected that things might turn out this way, as she understood Xin Ziqing too well. But after seeing the results, she still felt a little disappointed.


    "For the media side I can help coordinate with them to stop publishing nderous news attacking thedy."


    Rong Dai looked at Huo Ersi. Last night she had asked thewyer about some localws.


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, what do you think my chances are if I sue this mediapany?"


    She asked calmly.


    Huo Ersi was startled for a moment, then frowned slightly: "Lady Huo, I understand your feelings, but the news reports from this mediapany... are very tricky."


    "They dare to report any kind of news. If you sue, it would attract a lot of trouble."


    Seeing his reaction like this, Rong Dai suddenly smiled.


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, since Shaoting asked me to contact you, it means your abilities are very powerful."


    "Although there is an old saying in China that goes, ''an honest gentleman remains unruffled while petty men are always fretful''."


    "But when petty men run amok, even the most gentlemanly person would lose their temper."


    "Others may not dare oppose them, but why can''t I?"


    "I''m not one of you French people. By holding a passport from your country, I should receive legal protection under your localws."


    "They have insulted me first today. If I show weakness, then one day it will be them insulting my countrymen."


    "I will not condone this kind of unhealthy trend."


    Huo Ersi listened to her speak without interrupting. The admiration in his eyes could not be concealed.


    "So what does thedy n to do?"


    The corners of Rong Dai''s mouth turned up slightly: "Since this is a mediapany that does not abide by generally epted rules of survival, I guess they themselves are not that clean either."


    "I need dirt on them, as well as information on theirpetitors, and also a crazywyer, one who only upholds thew like a madman."


    "To challenge themonly epted rules of survival, there will be a price to pay."


    "With Mr. Huo Ersi''s capabilities, I believe these should not be difficult tasks. I''ll have to trouble you on this."


    To deal with such insidious petty people, only vicious and unexpected counterattacks would work!


    If they are ruthless, you have to be even more ruthless!


    Even if it means destroying yourself to defeat the enemy, don''t back down!


    Huo Ersi looked at her silently for a few seconds, then let out a sigh and said with a smile: "I think I understand now why Shaoting married you."


    "Under normal circumstances, not to mention foreigners, even locals wouldn''t dare provoke them like this."


    "Lady Huo, you''re the first."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly: "You tter me, sir. But someone has to go first in everything."


    "I''ll arrange these things properly. I advise thedy not to go out today, those media people... really give me a headache."


    Huo Ersi rubbed his temples wryly making a pained expression.


    Rong Dai of course also knew that before things were properly arranged, she would not meet with the media.


    The more sensationally this news report spreads now, the more miserable the fate of that bunch will beter!


    She did say she would not show mercy!

 Chapter 524: Do I look like I鈥檓 kidding

    <h4>Chapter 524</h4>


    In the conversation between Huo Ersi and her, Song Xuechun could not get a word in edgewise. When the two finally finished talking, she followed Rong Dai upstairs, heaving a sigh of relief.


    "Dai''er, are you really going to get awyer?"


    As soon as they went upstairs, Song Xuechun anxiously chased after her and asked.


    Rong Dai nced at her and asked back, "Do you think I''m joking right now?"


    "I have thought about doing good to others before."


    "But it''s so difficult to actually do it."


    "From Wen Shi Lan to Zuo Ran, and then to Yang Wanwan and Shi Ning, which one did I not give a chance to?"


    "But did they appreciate it?"


    Her expression was slightly cold. Perhaps from the beginning, she should not have been so timid and allowed them to think she was easy to bully.


    But it''s not toote now.


    "I won''t go easy on them this time. If you''re afraid, I''ll have Zong Che arrange for you to go back home."


    She had brought Song Xuechun along earlier to cover up the design drafts.


    But Xin Ziqing came up with an unexpected move and did not ruin her design drafts. So Song Xuechun did not have anything to do here.


    "No no, Dai''er. That''s not what I meant!" Song Xuechun quickly waved her hands, anxious to the point that her face flushed red!


    "I''m just worried about your safety. You have to know that this is overseas, where people can carry guns."


    "If you provoke them too much, bullets don''t have eyes!"


    The death rate overseas remains high. Guns are the biggest threat.


    "I know you''re worried about me, but I know my limits."


    "I will handle this matter. Over the next few days, if you want to go out and y, bring the bodyguards with you."


    "I mentioned this to Mr. Huo Ersist night already. He will arrange for bodyguards here to ensure your safety."


    Rong Dai nodded and earnestly urged her.


    Song Xuechun opened her mouth wanting to say something more, but seeing Rong Dai''s icy expression, she kept silent.


    "I''ll stay here with you."


    Although she was terrified, she could not leave Dai''er alone here.


    It was normal for Dai''er to change after enduring so much bitterness and grievance.


    Rong Dai did not say much more, knowing Song Xuechun had not eaten her fill at breakfast. She called for room service to deliver two breakfasts.


    It was sent up by Huo Ersi''s personal bodyguard who also served as his secretary. He also informed Rong Dai, "Mrs. Huo, the Master would like to invite you for a walk around the gallery. With the Master present, your safety will be assured."


    Without any hesitation, Rong Dai agreed after asking some questions, "We''ll go down shortly."


    "Dai''er, aren''t you afraid of that Mr. Huo Ersi?"


    "His imposing manner was too strong, making me unable to eat more than a few bites of that exquisite breakfast. What a waste."


    As was Song Xuechun''s character, she could immediately toss any matter to the back of her mind and keep up.


    "I still need to rely on him to handle this matter. Since it was his invitation, of course I cannot refuse."


    Rong Dai exined.


    This was a fair exchange. Although Huo Ersi and Huo Shao Ting were acquainted, she was now borrowing Shao Ting''s name to ask for his help.


    So she could not refuse such an invitation, at least not now.


    Song Xuechun seemed to vaguely understand with a nod and went back to miserably eating.


    After two bites, Rong Dai ate no more. She took out her phone to call Zong Che to instruct him on some matters.


    Once Song Xuechun had her fill, the two tidied up their make-up and changed their clothes before heading downstairs.


    Mina was there too, but her gaze towards Rong Dai was still unfriendly when she saw her.


    Rong Dai was toozy to bother and under the escort of the driver, got in the car to the gallery with Huo Ersi.

 Chapter 525: Must be Good at It

    <h4>Chapter 525</h4>


    After arriving at the exhibition hall, Rong Dai supported Huo Ersi''s hand to get out of the car.


    Seeing Huo Ersi appear, the people who had been waiting in the exhibition hall beforehand all came over.


    When they saw that he had brought Rong Dai with him, they couldn''t help but be stunned for a moment.


    Then someone recognized that she was the Oriental woman in today''s newspaper, and looked at her with contempt and disdain in their eyes.


    But no one dared to verbally attack her.


    Because Huo Ersi was beside her.


    For these looks, Rong Dai simply pretended not to see them.


    The Western prejudice against China was not formed in a day or two. Now that evidence had note out yet, anything more she said would be futile and useless.


    On the contrary, it would be somewhat evasive, so she might as well keep quiet and wait for the evidence toe to her hands before making a devastating counterattack!


    "So many porcin pieces? These...are all China''s cultural relics!"


    Song Xuechun said when she saw the porcin in the opened boxes in the exhibition hall, blurting out.


    The others could not understand Chinese, but Huo Ersi could.


    When Rong Dai looked at the antiques and cultural relics in the boxes in the hall, she understood the dark history of China, and her heart could not help but ache.


    But history had already happened, and I''m afraid these things would never be able to return to their homnd in their lifetimes, only drifting abroad.


    "Miss Song is right. These beautiful porcins were indeed China''s, but now they belong to the world."


    Huo Ersi looked at her and said.


    His words had deeper meaning, and Song Xuechun immediately pursed her lips, not daring to speak again.


    Rong Dai also gently shook her head, signaling her not to say too much.


    Some things were better left in the heart.


    "I thought Mr. Huo Ersi and the Huo family were at the forefront of technology. I didn''t expect Mr. Huo Ersi to have such hobbies as well."


    Rong Dai retracted her gaze. No matter how beautiful these porcins were, after all, they had already been looted.


    There would be regret and indignation, but humiliation would not be forgotten.


    Huo Ersi smiled modestly, "Chinese porcin is very beautiful. Mypany''s business scope is quite broad, and antiques and cultural relics are also my hobby."


    "I obtained this batch of porcin from a collector. Of course I wanted to invite my wife to appreciate such beautiful things with me."


    Rong Dai nodded. "I am honored."


    "Please feel free, my wife. I''m going to greet some other people. There are bodyguards around, and the media will not get into the exhibition hall as it is not open yet."


    Huo Ersi said to her gently with a smile.


    Rong Dai nodded and looked around the hall with Song Xuechun.


    "It''s so hateful! This is simply a museum of Chinese cultural relics..."


    Song Xuechun was more angry. In addition, the two of them did not know anyone in the hall, and they had Asian faces, so naturally no one woulde up to interact with them, which made them happy to have some peace and quiet.


    "Be careful what you say, disasteres from the mouth."


    Rong Dai frowned slightly and admonished her.


    "I just feel it''s a pity. There are so many things that are clearly our history! But now they can only be in the hands of these robbers, and we will never be able to bring them back home."


    Song Xuechun said resentfully, unable to help clenching her fists.


    As Rong Dai looked at these antiques and paintings, she also felt regret and indignation in her heart.


    But since ancient times, the weak are prey to the strong, and victors are kings while the defeated are viins.


    "There will be a day."


    She said lightly, but her words were full of conviction.


    When China became powerful one day, this would all be achieved.


    Although there was no record of foreign rule in China''s history, she would always remember that her flesh and blood and soul belonged to China.


    Song Xuechun nodded heavily beside her, "Definitely!"


    Rong Dai looked carefully at these antiques and paintings. Next to them were two boxes of porcin that had just been opened, which did indeed look exquisite beyond words at first nce.


    But she frowned slightly.


    "Mrs. Huo, since you are Chinese, I think you must be very knowledgeable about appraising these antiques from China."


    Just as the two of them were looking at the things in the boxes, Mina''s slightly provocative and mocking voice came over.

 Chapter 526: Why don鈥檛 I Fulfill You

    <h4>Chapter 526</h4>


    "Is this woman poisonous?"


    Upon hearing Mina''s words, Song Xuechun immediately frowned.


    "Don''t be so impatient."


    Rong Dai softly reminded her that with Song Xuechun''s personality, there would be no problem in Magnolia Fragrance.


    But this was not Magnolia Fragrance, and if Song Xuechun couldn''t control her emotions like this, she would easily get herself into trouble.


    Song Xuechun nodded and stood behind her to watch Mina lead a few upper-ss French noblewomen over.


    Mina walked confidently to the two of them, bowed to take a ceramic vessel in her hand, and turned to introduce it to the noblewomen around her.


    Rong Dai watched calmly as Mina operated. She never took the initiative to provoke anyone.


    She had already exined what happened this morning. If Mina still refused to let it go, then she could not be med.


    "Mrs. Huo, am I right?"


    Mina put the vessel down, turned to look at her, and deliberately asked.


    Rong Dai nced lightly at the ceramic vessel, her eyes ncing over these noblewomen around Mina.


    They were dressed elegantly and knowledgeably, yet still exuded an air of arrogance.


    She smiled lightly and shook her head, "This is not my specialty."


    It wasn''t that she didn''t understand these things. Her family''s cultivation of her in her previous life had expended a lot of effort and was not without use.


    It was just that she disdained to quibble over such petty things with a petty woman, which would lower her status.


    Mina''s smile grew even brighter as she spoke to those noblewomen in a mocking tone, with no attempt to avoid discussing Rong Dai''s presence between them.


    Song Xuechun could not understand, but she could see that whatever Mina was saying was not pleasant.


    "Mrs. Huo, I have heard that the Chinese are learned and talented. It turns out to be nothing more than this!"


    "Here in our circles, even as women, we still need to understand a little of this knowledge, otherwise we will seem too ignorant."


    "I did not expect the wife of a prestigious Chinese family to be like this. It''s really a bit disappointing."


    The swelling on Mina''s cheeks had gone down, and with heavy makeup on, there was no sign of injury to her face.


    She mocked Rong Dai mercilessly.


    The noblewomen whispered to each other, looking at Rong Dai and Song Xuechun with arrogant and contemptuous eyes.


    Rong Dai''s eyes darkened as she stared back at Mina and asked, "Do you really want me to say it?"


    Mina shrugged with an "if you dare" look.


    "If Mrs. Huo is willing to make a fool of herself, I''d be happy to cheer her on."


    Rong Dai pressed her lips together, sweeping Mina and the noblewomen with a sharp, dignified yet disdainful gaze. Then she turned her head and ordered Song Xuechun: "Go and ask Mr. Huo Ersi toe over and say there is a problem with the artifacts here."


    Song Xuechun''s eyes immediately lit up and she briskly ran off with an acknowledgment!


    But Rong Dai''s words enraged Mina!


    "What do you mean there is a problem with the artifacts here? Mrs. Huo, please don''t talk nonsense!"


    She was able to get into Huo Ersi''s bed because of her identity as an expert appraiser of artifacts.


    It was only after these things had gone through her hands that they could be ced in the exhibition hall. If this made Huo Ersi question her abilities, then her beautiful dream would be shattered!


    "Nonsense?"


    Rong Dai chuckled lightly with a raised brow, looking at Mina and those noblewomen with solemn and disdainful eyes. "Only those whock confidence in their own abilities and feel uneasy about what they have done would think that others are talking nonsense."


    "Since Miss Mina, you just said I was Chinese, I should be an expert on determining the authenticity of these artifacts from China."


    "This is not entirely false, it''s just that earlier I was toozy to quibble with you."


    "But you kept pushing aggressively for me to humiliate myself, so why shouldn''t I oblige you?"

 Chapter 527: Because It鈥檚 Fake

    <h4>Chapter 527</h4>


    Mina''s face turned pale and then flushed as she stared at Rong Dai furiously, wanting to scold her very much. But Huo Ersi had alreadye over, forcing her to shut her mouth.


    "Mrs. Huo, did you just say there was a problem with this batch of artifacts?"


    Huo Ersi''s face did not have its usual gentleness. On the contrary, it was a bit cold, revealing anger. But this anger was not directed at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai nodded. A confident smile appeared on her beautiful face as she bent down to take out a cdon ware from the box. It was the same one Mina had picked up just now.


    With a loud bang, she directly smashed the cdon ware on the ground. The porcin pieces shattered instantly with a crisp sound, immediately drawing the attention of everyone in the hall.


    "Are you crazy?!"


    Seeing her actually smash such a good-looking cdon like that, Mina trembled with anger!


    Huo Ersi couldn''t help frowning either. There was already some dissatisfaction in his eyes towards Rong Dai, but he didn''t say it out loud. He just hesitantly asked her, "Why did you do that, Mrs. Huo?"


    Rong Dai looked at him with a confident and calm expression on her beautiful face, "No reason, just because this cdon ware is fake."


    "Impossible! You just said you didn''t understand, how do you know it''s fake?!"


    Hearing her say that, Mina immediately refuted her, wishing she could tear apart Rong Dai''s mouth!


    How could this Eastern woman be so detestable!?


    Rong Dai sneered disdainfully at her, speaking mockingly, "When I said I didn''t understand, that was to give you face."


    "We Chinese women are proficient in music, chess, calligraphy and painting. Appraising such antiques is simply child''s y."


    The number of antiques and cultural relics I have yed with and used exceeds what your ancestors eighteen generationsbined had. How could I not have such basic discernment?


    Rong Dai scornfully sneered in her heart. In her previous life, she had seen and been bestowed with many such objects. Over time, she naturally grasped the essentials.


    "The workmanship of this cdon ware is so shoddy that calling it a fake is giving it too much credit!"


    She said coldly, then bent down to pick up a piece of porcin from the ground and ced it in front of everyone.


    "This cdon vase is an imitation of the Song Dynasty Ge kiln wares. ording to research, the characteristics of the Ge kiln wares are obvious."


    "First, the crackles. The iron wire and gold thread, iron mouth and foot, because the Ge kiln contains arge amount of iron minerals, this forms such unique patterns."


    "The big crackles are iron wires, the small ones are gold threads. The big and small crackles together are called ''scrappy cracked skin''. The cracks are dense but not sparse, curved but not straight."


    "This cdon did quite well on this point."


    Rong Dai exined calmly. In her previous life, she had seen and used too many of these objects, so even though there were only a few hundred surviving Ge kiln wares in this life, it did not affect her appraisal.


    "Second, the ze color. The ze color is cdon, uneven in depth, with pink cdon, moon white, ash grey, cdon yellow and more colors. Due to kiln changes, the ze often shows two or more colors."


    "The ze surface is not smooth, but has ayer of gloss like butter oil. The ze is rtively deep, turbid and not translucent. The ze thickness is uneven."


    "This cdon is extremely poor in this aspect, with the colors too consistent."


    She casually picked up another piece of porcin topare. No matter how she disyed them, the colors of the two porcin pieces remained the same.


    "Third, the foot. Due to the special yposition, the foot ring of Ge kiln wares should have narrow straight edges, deep foot interior and shallow short foot exterior."


    "Fourth, the most recognizable feature to identify real Ge kiln wares is pearls and clustered bubbles."


    As Rong Dai spoke, her gaze swept disdainfully and coldly at Mina, whose face had turned pale with panic.


    If your firing skill isn''t up to standard, don''t pretend to deliver the genuine article. Who can you me?


    "This is the most amazing part of the Ge kiln wares. The bubbles in the Ge kiln ze are not easy to imitate, because they cannot be artificially controlled during firing."


    "The pearls refer to the fine bubbles inside the ze of Ge kiln wares, like tiny droplets of water, covering the interior and exterior walls of the vessel."


    "The bubbles arerger than the pearls. Their arrangement is rtively tidy rather than interspersed randomly. They are generally arranged in a circle on the interior wall, like a slightly thick ring."


    "Although this cdon broke, from the cross section of the shards, I do not see any bubbles. The ze surface is too t. This is the biggest w."


    "Miss Mina, am I right?"


    She handed the porcin shard to Huo Ersi and brushed her hands. Her gaze was cold as she looked back at Mina and asked.

 Chapter 528: Promise to be more real than this.

    <h4>Chapter 528</h4>


    "Since this is Miss Mina''s area of expertise, I assume she knows this basic professional knowledge, right?"


    She was toozy to wait for Mina to answer and walked to the other side of the wall, reaching up and tearing down a painting that the staff had just hung up.


    There were scissors on top of the cab and she picked them up without hesitation, getting ready to cut.


    "Mrs. Huo, wait a minute!"


    Seeing her actions, Huo Ersi was scared out of his wits!


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, this means you don''t trust me?"


    Rong Dai stopped for a moment, the corners of her lips curving up into a smile as she stared at him.


    Huo Ersi''s face revealed an unusual expression, seeming troubled and helpless. "Mrs. Huo, let''s talk nicely. If we damage the original work, it would be a huge loss for humankind!"


    "Don''t worry, I can afford to pay for it."


    "If Mr. Huo Ersi can ept looking at imitation paintings, I can paint one for you immediately that will look even more authentic than this one."


    As she spoke, she cut into the painting with the scissors, and it was immediately ruined in half.


    "Xue Chun, get me some water."


    She didn''t look at Huo Ersi, but threw the other half of the painting on the ground, holding onto the one half.


    Song Xuechun didn''t hesitate and immediately twisted open a bottle of mineral water.


    Rong Dai used her fingers to slowly smear the water on the painting, repeatedly wetting the same spot. In less than half a minute, a few strands of cotton-like curled shreds appeared on her fingertips.


    "Because of the special texture of silk paintings, long-term exposure will make the silk painting core brittle. Thus, there is a saying in Chinese paintings that it''s ''Three parts painting, seven parts mounting''."


    "Due to the passage of time, the mounting paper supporting the painting core will also be discolored. Therefore, for an authentic work, as long as the mounting paper can be peeled offpletely intact, many authentic works can be made from it."


    "After all, the painted traces on the mounting paper are real, it justcks charm due to the change in colors."


    Rong Dai stopped speaking and handed the painting to Huo Ersi.


    "If this painting had just had theplete mounting paper peeled off and remounted, although not as valuable as the original, it would still have some appreciative value."


    "Unfortunately, the forger was too clever for their own good, cutting the mounting paper into several sections before having someone paint over the cuts and patches, thinking they could fake authenticity."


    "The connections do look seamless without any ws, but the forger forgot that time does not lie."


    "No matter how skilled the artificial aging methods, without the precipitation of time, it willck charm."


    "Fakes are fakes after all, not living up to their name."


    Rong Dai''s words had double meaning, and her eyes nced mockingly at Mina.


    "I''m very curious whether Miss Minacked expertise, or did this deliberately. Such obvious ws, how could she not see them?"


    She asked lightly, then casually pointed out the ws and identifying features of several pieces already ced in the disy cab, exining in detail how each one was forged.


    Huo Ersi had been very unhappy with her reckless and rude behavior, but seeing that a third of the collectibles just delivered to his museum were fakes, his face sank immediately.


    "Miss Mina, if you have any doubts, you can bring them up."


    "As long as you can point out oneplete authentic piece here, I will pay you back ten times the price. How about it?"


    She looked down at Mina, eyebrows knitted.


    She had given the other party a chance, not wanting to force her to lose face in public, yet this was how she ended up.


    Huo Ersi''s expression was ugly. Mina exined in panic, but she was incoherent and unable to exin herself clearly.


    "And for the fewdies, remember this: Since you''ve stolen from others, you should keep quiet about it."


    "Not strut around arrogantly here - in the end, it will only be yourselves losing face."


    Rong Dai stared sharply at the socialite women who hade with Mina, her words cold and extremely scornful as she sneered.

 Chapter 529: Are You Laughing Me to Death

    <h4>Chapter 529</h4>


    Huo Ersi''s face was gloomy as he signaled to his bodyguards to ask all the guests to leave the hall. The few noblewomen left with red faces, abandoning Mina as they hurried away.


    The spacious hall quieted down.


    Mina''s face was pale and she cried as she looked pleadingly at Huo Ersi, "Mr. Huo Ersi, I have appraised all these items personally, there is absolutely no way they could be fake."


    "There must have been some ident during the transportation, this is definitely not an issue with my expertise."


    She should have dealt with that Oriental woman differently if she had known how detestable Song Xuechun would be!


    Song Xuechun held her phone quietly to the side, using the trantion software. As soon as Mina finished speaking, the software tranted her words.


    She immediately red at Mina, clenching her phone, "Ms. Mina, you are clearly making excuses!"


    "That porcin vase was set down by you just now. If there is no issue with your expertise as you im, then how did you fail to discern it earlier?"


    The trantion software worked quickly to trante her words in real-time. Mina''s face turned red then green as she was rendered speechless.


    "Besides, if you hadn''t stubbornly tried to embarrass my Dai''er, who would have poked their nose into this? These items belong to China in the first ce!"


    "A bunch of thieves still dare to call themselves professionals! Are you trying to make meugh to death?!"


    Song Xuechun red up in anger, forgetting Rong Dai��s earlier advice to her.


    Rong Dai resisted the urge to facepalm. She wasn''t worried anyway since they wouldn''t stay in France for long.


    "Sorry, my friend is a little...excited. This is history, we have failed before, we have to admit that."


    After letting Song Xuechun vent, Rong Dai smiled apologetically at Huo Ersi to apologize.


    Huo Ersi did not actually mind any of this. As a businessman, he only cared about profits.


    Song Xuechun btedly realized she had been too impulsive, blushing in embarrassment as she looked uneasily at Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai gave her a faint smile and shook her head to indicate she needn''t worry about it.


    Certain things did need to be pointed out after all.


    "It''s alright. Thank you Mrs. Huo for the professional assessment."


    "Fortunately these collections haven''t been opened to the public yet. Otherwise I would have be a realughingstock."


    Huo Ersi smiled mildly and shook his head, his icy gaze ncing over Mina.


    "There are still many collections here. If Mrs. Huo doesn''t mind, could you help assess them?"


    Huo Ersi asked respectfully in Chinese with a thick ent.


    Rong Dai shook her head gently, the faint smile still on her delicate face, "I''m afraid I''m not up to the task, Mr. Huo Ersi."


    "What I said earlier was just some superficial knowledge from reading a lot. I''m no expert."


    "I suggest Mr. Huo Ersi invite a professional expert to appraise instead. If I make a mistake like Ms. Mina did, it would be my fault."


    She did know a fair bit about antique appreciation. But there was no need to overstep.


    Although Huo Ersi was genuinely asking, he did not press her when she declined.


    He then personally called to contact others after arranging for Rong Dai and Song Xuechun to rest in a lounge next door.


    "Dai''er, since when did you get so knowledgeable about antique appraisal?"


    Bored in the lounge, the ever-curious Song Xuechun started probing again. It was her defining trait.


    "I read it in books, believe it?"


    Rong Dai replied perfunctorily with a faint smile.


    But Song Xuechun nodded without hesitation, looking at her with absolute trust, "I believe you!"


    "I believe anything Dai''er says!"


    Rong Dai didn''t know whether tough or cry, but her heart also warmed.


    "But this way we have offended Mina. Although her expertise seemscking, Mr. Huo Ersi trusts her a lot."


    "We didn''t give them any face today, what if it impacts Mr. Huo Ersi''s ability to help us?"


    Song Xuechun started worrying anxiously again.

 Chapter 530: Will You Be Wronged

    <h4>Chapter 530</h4>


    Rong Dai smiled and shook her head: "No, Huo Ersi''s vision is not so narrow."


    "I was a little rude today, but everyone could see the situation. It was Mina''s professional ipetence."


    "I pointed it out today. It''s better than being ridiculed by the crowd after the opening."


    "If you were Huo Ersi, who would you choose?"


    Song Xuechun frowned slightly and pondered for a few seconds: "Of course I would choose the former."


    "If this is dyed until the opening, then the situation will not be like today anymore."


    "You can tell Huo Ersi is a very famous big shot. There will definitely be media at the opening."


    Rong Dai smirked: "That''s right."


    So she dared to embarrass Mina so boldly.


    After sitting in the lounge for half an hour, the bodyguard knocked on the door and came in.


    The two followed the bodyguard to the lobby of the exhibition hall. They saw a woman in her fifties, with a slightly mean look in her eyes and a very strong aura,forting Mina.


    There was another white-haired old man in the hall, dressed in a Zhongshan suit, obviously a Chinese.


    Before Rong Dai could steady her footsteps, she immediately felt two scorching gazes scraping her!


    Her face was calm, her eyes were coolly nced over.


    Mina had red eyes, her eyes shed with indignant smugness as they swept over her, as if to say "you''ll get yours."


    Rong Dai felt it was childish and withdrew her gaze to look at the old man and Huo Ersi.


    As soon as Huo Ersi saw here over, she immediately introduced the old man to her.


    "Mrs. Huo, this is the antique appraisal expert, Mr. Zhan Ji."


    "Mr. Zhan, this is Mrs. Huo, Ms. Rong Dai."


    Huo Ersi spoke Chinese fluently and made the introduction very sincerely.


    Leaning on his cane, Zhan Ji exuded an air of refined elegance despite his age, with a touch of transcendent crane-like grace.


    "Did you appraise those things just now?"


    Zhan Ji was direct, his bright old eyes full of admiration.


    Rong Dai bowed her head modestly: "I only know the rudiments, far from being in the hall of great elegance. I was a bit rash in pointing out some things, and made the old gentlemanugh."


    Song Xuechun couldn''t get a word in edgewise. Watching Rong Dai handle these things effortlessly, she felt gratified but also puzzled.


    Dai''er has changed so much.


    Zhan Ji immediatelyughed: "Good! Remaining humble at all times, how rare!"


    Rong Dai pursed her lips and smiled without replying. In her previous life she had suffered so much bitterness, if she hadn''t cultivated these skills it would really have been a wasted life.


    "Young people nowadays don''t calm their hearts. They don''t have much interest in or care for these things."


    "These all carry a part of our Chinese history. Any one taken out is a story in itself."


    The old gentleman shook his head with a sigh, unable to conceal the loneliness in his eyes.


    "Mr. Zhan, I''ve arranged dinner tonight. You and Mrs. Huo can talk to your heart''s content."


    "It''s just that the opening is imminent..."


    Seeing the two chatting, Huo Ersi was a little anxious to remind them.


    Zhan Ji nced at him. Stroking his snowy beard with one hand: "Chair, table, tea."


    Huo Ersi immediately nodded and gestured to the bodyguards to arrange it.


    "You''re a smart child. Will you be willing to be my assistant for today? I hope it''s not an imposition."


    Zhan Ji looked at Rong Dai, his tone half joking as he asked her.


    "To receive guidance from the old gentleman, Rong Dai would be honored."


    Rong Dai certainly wouldn''t refuse such an opportunity. Huo Ersi was very respectful towards this Mr. Zhan Ji, which implied information worth thinking about carefully.

 Chapter 531: Need a Whole Brain

    <h4>Chapter 531</h4>


    "Teacher, isn''t this breaking the rules?"


    "Mrs. Huo Ersi is so young. Just because she happened to be able to point out some problematic pieces, it doesn''t mean she understands the relevant knowledge."


    "Mina is still learning. It''s inevitable to make some mistakes. I''ll pay thepensation for those fake pieces to Mr. Huo Ersi, as Mina''s tuition fee. Isn''t that okay?"


    Bosha walked over immediately with a sour and mean expression, ncing at Rong Dai unfavorably and self-righteously questioning.


    Tsk, the tuition fee is really expensive.


    Rong Dai could see the other party''s hostility and couldn''t help but mock in her heart.


    "Are this woman and Mina mother and daughter? They look a little alike to me."


    Song Xuechun stood behind her and lowered her voice to a volume that only the two of them could hear.


    Rong Dai''s eyes swept over the two people. Looking at them this way, Mina did resemble the woman.


    "Rules? By epting you as a disciple, I''ve already broken the rules. Do I still need to be afraid to break them again?"


    Zhan Ji coldly snorted, his old face very unhappy.


    Bosha was humiliated and felt very embarrassed!


    "Mr. Zhan, don''t forget you were entrusted by the embassy."


    "What you''re doing now is interfering with the work."


    When one method didn''t work, Bosha brought out the official rhetoric.


    Rong Dai couldn''t help frowning. She happened to see a fleeting smugness sh across Mina''s face.


    "Are you threatening me?"


    Zhan Ji''s white eyebrows jerked up, and anger crept onto his wrinkled face.


    Seeing Huo Ersi frowning as well, Bosha''s expression changed: "Bosha didn''t mean that. I just think the teacher should impart more professional knowledge to Mina."


    "I''m not skilled, but Mina is still young. She''s talented."


    "Ha!"


    Bosha spoke Chinese, so Song Xuechun heard it very clearly and couldn''t helpughing out loud.


    Bosha and Mina''s eyes immediately stared at her like daggers!


    "Uh... I''m really sorry. I just deeply doubt what thisdy said."


    "Miss Mina doesn''t look young either. She''s almost thirty. Our Dai''er is only twenty-three."


    "These historical relics are imprinted with the soul of China. Is it wrong for Mr. Zhan to give some pointers to the young students of his country?"


    Song Xuechun asked blunt soul-searching questions without mercy, making Bosha''s face even more unpleasant.


    "The girl talks well. Youe listen too."


    Zhan Ji looked at Song Xuechun approvingly, one hand held behind him, toozy to pay attention to Bosha and Mina.


    Bosha''s face was gloomy as she stared coldly at Rong Dai and Song Xuechun''s backs, secretly clenching her fists.


    "Mrs. Bosha, you can take Mina back."


    "I don''t needpensation. This stupid woman almost killed me!"


    "Thepensation is for her!"


    After Rong Dai and the others left, a vicious look appeared on Huo Ersi''s face. He motioned for the bodyguards to bring up a password box.


    Bosha''s face changed drastically: "How could you do this, Huo Ersi? Mina has been by your side for half a year!"


    "What face will she have left after you do this?"


    Mina was also shocked, with a nk look on her face as she watched the situation in front of her.


    Huo Ersi smiled coldly: "Shouldn''t I have a taste of the prey sent to my door? If she doesn''t suit my taste, do I still have to force her down?"


    "To be my Huo Ersi''s woman, you first need aplete brain."


    Huo Ersi was in no mood to haggle with the mother and daughter anymore. With a wave of his hand, the bodyguards threw them out!


    Bosha and Mina were disheveled by the wind outside the museum, and Mina angrily kicked the wall. Her eyes were fierce: "It must be that Eastern woman messing around!"

 Chapter 532: The Better the Better

    <h4>Chapter 532</h4>


    ��Do you know how to make tea?��


    After sitting down, Mr. Zhan asked Rong Dai directly.


    ��I know a little, I��m just worried Mr. Zhan might not like it.��


    Rong Dai nodded.


    ��It doesn��t matter, go ahead and make some.��


    Rong Dai did not refuse. Huo Ersi ordered someone to bring up a whole set of tea wares.


    Since the collection consisted of Chinese antiques, the whole museum was decorated in the style of ancient Chinese architecture, so tea wares were naturally indispensable.


    Song Xuechun did not dare to speak, she just carefully sat down beside Rong Dai and watched her movements of making tea, the whole process was as smooth as flowing clouds and water.


    She suddenly realized that she knew very little about Rong Dai.


    Huo Ersi sat on the side, also tasting the tea made by Rong Dai, appreciating her calm and elegant manner of tea making, the appreciation in his eyes was undisguised.


    There were not many collections in the museum. After noon, the real and fake, half real and half fake collections had all been identified.


    Huo Ersi''s face was as ck as the bottom of a pot when he saw the pile of fake collections on the ground.


    "Send Mr. Zhan and his wife back to the club..."


    "No need, this old bone of mine is not used to it."


    Huo Ersi had not finished speaking when he was waved away by Mr. Zhan, whose gaze turned to Rong Dai, unable to conceal his appreciation: "You are talented, you have to keep learning."


    "Take down my number, contact me if you have any questions."


    Rong Dai did not expect such an unexpected gain. She quickly took out her phone to save the number.


    Huo Ersi had no choice but to arrange for the driver to send the old gentleman back. Rong Dai knew he had things to deal with, so she asked him to send her and Song Xuechun back to the club.


    When the two of them returned to the club, Zong Che happened toe back.


    "Big brother Zong, how is it going?"


    Seeing Zong Che, Song Xuechun asked immediately.


    Zong Che pressed his lips and nced at Rong Dai before speaking: "It��s being dealt with."


    Rong Dai nodded. She believed in Zong Che��s abilities.


    "Let''s go upstairs to talk. There are some things I want you to do."


    Although Huo Ersi would help her, this man was not a simple character. It was better to be prepared, so as not to cause trouble for Shaoting.


    The three of them subsequently went upstairs to Rong Dai''s room and had a brief meeting.


    "Miss Tao invited you to have dinner at the restaurant tonight, do you want to go?"


    Only after taking notes did Zong Che ask her.


    Rong Dai nodded: "You can arrange it."


    "No, Dai''er is being watched by those media now! If you go out like this you will be spotted!"


    Song Xuechun was anxious.


    "The more I avoid it, the more guilty I will appear."


    "Besides, I am Chinese, this is Paris. For them, this kind of news is just temporarily exciting, it will pass quickly."


    "Otherwise, if it really caused a sensation, how could those aristocraticdies and Mina act like they knew nothing about it today?"


    Rong Dai shook her head with a faint smile. Things had not reached the point where she had to hide indoors to avoid it.


    "Then I''ll go arrange it. Lu Nianzhi''s side, I''ve already contacted and exined."


    "The domestic situation does not look good."


    Zong Che looked at her worriedly.


    He had handled even more difficult public rtions issues, it was just that Rong Dai��s identity was different, and he could not simply consider the interests involved.


    Plus the other side had handled it very cleanly, making evidence difficult to obtain.


    "It''s okay, just let them make noise, the more intense the better."


    Rong Dai declined.


    Even without looking at the domestic media coverage, she knew what kind of state she had been painted as.


    "Dai''er! Look at this!"


    Song Xuechun''s face suddenly changed greatly. She held up her phone and showed her the content.


    "I don''t know who did it, but they actually posted this on the FB social app! Now you''re being viciously attacked!"

 Chapter 533: The country is delayed

    <h4>Chapter 533</h4>


    "FB has the most users globally, who on earth is so malicious!?" Song Xuechun was anxious and angry, wanting to help exin for her on FB. However, her English was too poor, the words she pieced together were all wrong, and these foreigners wouldn''t understand if she spoke Chinese, so she could only give up.


    Zong Che''s face was also ugly. Rong Dai looked at the video above and told Zong Che to investigate the ount that posted it.


    She had just finished instructing Zong Che when Qiao Wanzhou''s phone calls bombarded over!


    "Can someone tell me what exactly is going on here? Why did things get so serious? Is President Huo going to help you do PR or not?"


    "Don''t force a pregnant woman to take action! If this continues, your reputation will stink."


    "Today I got insider news that the airing time of Empress has been dyed. The specific time is not yet determined, but it will definitely miss the summer schedule."


    "I went to check on Magnolia Fragrance. Eggs and vegetable leaves were thrown at thepany''s door. Can this issue even be resolved now?"


    Qiao Wanzhou spoke anxiously and choked on her own saliva from talking too fast.


    Rong Dai frowned. She knew this would impact Magnolia Fragrance, but didn''t expect it to affect the drama Empress too. The summer schedule was already set, and promotional activities had begun. They were just waiting for the summer to air it and evaluate the results.


    But now the airing time was being indefinitely postponed?


    "I''m not worried about ruining my own reputation, but yours!"


    "These people are more ferocious than a flood. And President Huo hasn''t made any statement or had Huo Corporation help you with PR. What is going on?"


    Qiao Wanzhou quickly exined, afraid Rong Dai would misunderstand her meaning.


    "Wanzhou sister, I will resolve this. Just trust me."


    "Don''t worry about anything else. If you''re bored during your pregnancy, you can help keep an eye on Shi Ning of Brocade Embroidery Workshop for me."


    "But don''t confront her directly. I''m afraid she''ll hurt you. Just let me know if you have any news."


    Rong Dai instructed her and suppressed the anger in her heart.


    She went through so much hardship filming Empress, and Qiao Wanzhou and Zhou Jing were involved too.


    This was also Uncle Huo Shaojie''s hard work. She couldn''t let this drama be ruined just like that.


    "Nonsense! If you don''t believe me, who will you believe? Those idiots online?"


    "With a gem like Huo Shaoting, you''re still not satisfied and would go abroad to have an affair with a hunk?"


    "Those who think this must either have water in their brains or been kicked by a donkey!"


    Qiao Wanzhou''s mood fluctuated greatly during her pregnancy, especially as she was getting closer to Rong Dai now. She spoke without holding back.


    "You take care of things. I''ll keep an eye out for you. After all, I''m the future spokesperson for Magnolia Fragrance. Anyone messing with Magnolia Fragrance is messing with me, Qiao Wanzhou!"


    "Also, I emailed you. I have some friends in France too."


    "If you need help, feel free to contact them. I''ve given them a heads up."


    "Don''t reject this favor from me. We need to find the idiot behind the scenes and teach them a serious lesson! Let big sis vent some anger!"


    Qiao Wanzhou instructed her.


    Rong Dai felt warm inside: "I will."


    "Pay attention to resting. Don''t let your emotions fluctuate too much, it''ll affect my godson and goddaughter."


    Qiao Wanzhou humphed proudly: "Got it, I won''t keep you. I''m going to take a nap and calm down."


    Rong Dai responded and they hung up.


    Right after ending the call with Qiao Wanzhou, Lu Nianzhi''s call came in.


    What Lu Nianzhi reported to her was consistent with what Qiao Wanzhou said. The summer airing schedule for Empress had been postponed, and the slot was taken over by another drama.

 Chapter 534: No one can stop Her Path.

    <h4>Chapter 534</h4>


    Neither Zong Che nor Song Xuechun said anything. Zong Che opened his phone to contact his assistant and understand the situation in China, while Song Xuechun also leaned over to take a look. When she saw the name of the reced drama, she was stunned for a moment: "This drama... I remember it was invested by Brocade Embroidery Workshop, and the costumes were all sponsored by Brocade Embroidery Workshop."


    Rong Dai''s eyes were deep as she instructed Lu Nianzhi before hanging up the phone.


    "It seems that the other party wants to blockade me in all aspects to leave me no way out."


    She gave a coldugh, then called Huo ShaoJie. But the line was busy for a long time before Huo ShaoJie finally answered the phone on the third try.


    "ShaoJie, how are things going with the crew now?"


    Huo ShaoJie didn''t me her. His voice was gentle as he answered her, "It''s just a dy in the broadcast time, it won''t have too much impact."


    "Be more careful abroad. I will urge my elder brother about this."


    When Rong Dai heard Huo ShaoJie caring about her own affairs instead of the agreement between husband and wife, she felt a little guilty at heart.


    "I will handle the crew affairs. Sister-inw, don''t take these things to heart."


    "The more they do this, the more it shows they have no confidence in their own abilities."


    "Guohou is a work we polished carefully. As a bright pearl, its brilliance will not be obscured."


    Afraid that she might overthink, Huo ShaoJieforted her a few more sentences.


    Rong Dai responded and hung up after him. The ominous glint in her eyes grew stronger.


    "Can it be done today?"


    Zong Che knew the severity of the matter and immediately nodded, "Yes."


    "Then go arrange it. I must have the result by tonight."


    She instructed Zong Che, and thetter arranged it without hesitation.


    "Dai''er, have some water first."


    Song Xuechun didn''t know how tofort her, so she could only pour a ss of water for her.


    "Thanks."


    Rong Dai took the ss and drank two sips before putting it back on the table. She opened her phone mailbox to check the email Qiao Wanzhou sent her.


    In addition to the contact information, she also sent an overseas link.


    Rong Dai clicked it open and the page jumped over. It was an overseas audition registration form.


    Just as she was about to take a closer look, a WeChat message from Qiao Wanzhou popped up.


    "Wu Zetian?"


    Song Xuechun caught a glimpse of the audition poster''s content and quickly searched for rted information with her phone.


    Instead of replying to Qiao Wanzhou right away, Rong Dai looked at the content on the poster.


    Overseas audiences have biases against Chinesenguage films and TV, so Chinesenguage works are few and far between on international stages.


    "Dai''er, do you want to act in it?"


    Song Xuechun asked her.


    Rong Dai closed the link and recalled the promise she made to the olddy that she would withdraw after acting in Guohou.


    She knew she shouldn''t break her word, but the attraction of this drama was great for her.


    Wu Zetian was aplicated female emperor full of legendary colors.


    "I don''t know."


    She shook her head without thinking more about it. Instead, she tidied up her make-up to prepare to meet Tao Yaofang.


    Meanwhile, in China, Huo Shaoting sat in his office chair looking at the g invitation letter shown by Assistant Zhang.


    "Who is the hottest female star under Huo Entertainment? Ask her to apany me to the g tonight as my date."


    Huo Shaoting ordered coldly, his wife''s path shall not be obstructed by anyone!


    Zhang was shocked but didn''t dare ask any questions. "It''s Ying Bingling. She is very capable and beautiful..."


    "What do you want to say?"


    Huo Shaoting stared at him coldly.


    Zhang swallowed hard, his tongue getting twisted as he spoke: "Didn''t... Didn''t Boss Huo use to not participate in these activities?"


    "Now I want to participate. Do you have any objections?" Huo Shaoting scoffed.


    "No, no objections. I''ll arrange it right away."


    Zhang was scared out of his wits, eager to survive.


    "Arrange for the media to follow up. Ask Ying Bingling toe see me first."


    Huo Shaoting instructed coldly. No one could block his wife''s path!

 Chapter 535: The Real Thing

    <h4>Chapter 535</h4>


    When Ying Bingling learned that the Big Boss wanted to summon her, she was stunned for a long time. It was not until she followed Zhang Assistant to the CEO''s office that she reacted.


    Ying Bingling was a popr little flower actress with a first love face and decent acting skills, very well liked by the audience.


    "Mr. Huo."


    Ying Bingling had her own pride, but in front of Huo Shao Ting, she did not dare to mess around.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her and pushed a contract in front of her: "Read itpletely."


    Ying Bingling was puzzled, but still picked up the contract and read it carefully. Upon seeing the terms above, she couldn''t help widening her beautiful eyes.


    "If you can do it, the entertainment resources of Huo Group''s entertainmentpany will be given priority to you."


    Huo Shao Ting leaned back in his chair, his expression indifferent, and his tone of voice was also devoid of emotion when he spoke.


    "I can do it."


    Ying Bingling put down the contract. She didn''t need to read the rest. Just for this one sentence, except for sexual favors and illegal matters, she could do anything!


    She was twenty-seven now. She couldn''t rely on her limited youthful appeal to support herself much longer. She had to gain better resources and a bigger stage.


    "Have your agente see me."


    Seeing her agree, Huo Shao Ting''s face didn''t show a trace of emotional fluctuation.


    Although Huo Group wasn''t mainly focused on the entertainment industry, Huo Group was involved in a wide variety of industries, including entertainment, which was quite substantial.


    The key was that Huo Group had ample funding. As long as Huo Group was willing, propping up an international superstar would be no problem.


    Ying Bingling nodded and went to the other side to call her agent.


    The agent rushed over, carefully read through the contract, unable to conceal the delight in her eyes, but still looked to Ying Bingling first to seek her opinion.


    Since Ying Bingling had no objections, the matter was settled on the spot, with the rest left for Zhang Assistant to handle.


    After getting this matter arranged, Huo Shao Ting looked at the time and opted to send Rong Dai a text message.


    "An opportunity like this is very rare now, you must keep guard of your heart."


    "A character like Huo Boss isn''t someone you can long for. I know you have a proud temper."


    "Let me say the ugly words first to avoid you getting carried away with make-believe."


    The agent took Ying Bingling back to her apartment and handed her a bottle of water, staring at her with a serious and solemn gaze.


    Ying Bingling twisted open the bottle cap and drank a mouthful of water, smiling as she said: "Sis Ming, just rx. I still have that much sense."


    "Huo Boss is indeed an exceptionally outstanding man, but I''m not stupid enough to joke around with my future prospects."


    Ying Bingling was very confident, her beautiful eyes gleaming, full of longing for her future career to take off splendidly.


    Ming Xin nodded, then made a phone call to prepare for the banquet that night.


    It was a small charity night event, though they said small, the celebrities attending were all very major figures.


    In previous years, Huo Shao Ting wouldn''t even nce twice at this kind of charity night. The organizers would only give a symbolic invitation, not expecting Huo Shao Ting to actually attend.


    But this time, the organizers received a call from Zhang Assistant, leaving them puzzled.


    Of course, they desperately hoped for Huo Shao Ting to attend.


    In order to promote the charity night, the organizers released ambiguous information to the media within permissible conditions.


    There was never ack of "detectives" online, so very quickly there wereizens who suspected it had to do with Huo Shao Ting.


    After contacting Zhang Assistant, Ming Xin also followed the organizers in releasing information.


    The two pieces of newsing out caused the melon-eatingizens to instantly let their imaginations run wild.

 Chapter 536: The Wish is a Good One

    <h4>Chapter 536</h4>


    "What the hell! So what happened to Rong Dai abroad is true?"


    "Forgive my wild imagination, but this time, President Huo did not evene forward to rify things! There is something fishy here!"


    "Tsk, you upstairs just don''t understand. They married without any emotional basis, it was just a marriage of convenience."


    "Have you ever thought about whether Rong Dai deserves President Huo? Now she''s having an affair with a hot stud abroad, do you expect President Huo to keep enduring it like a saint?"


    "To be blunt, when President Huo is willing, even if Rong Dai did something wrong, it would still be right."


    "If President Huo gets annoyed and doesn''t want her anymore, what is Rong Dai? She would just be thrown away like garbage."


    "I''m starting to feel a little sorry for this woman...but every pitiable person has hateful aspects!"


    There were all kinds ofments online, although the words did not seem so vicious, the vast majority were still gloating over Rong Dai''s misfortune.


    Everyone was waiting for Rong Dai to return home tough at her, waiting to see her miserable and wretched oue.


    Huo Shaoting stared grimly at thesements, his already unsmiling face became even colder.


    "Write down everything about the banquets and report it to the mistress every day."


    He instructed Zhang Assistant.


    These people wanted tough at his wife?


    That wish was beautiful, but it could never be fulfilled.


    Seeing the ferocity in his eyes, Zhang Assistant immediately nodded.


    "President, do you want me to clean things up then? Since it''s done, it should be done thoroughly."


    The office was quiet for a few seconds, Zhang Assistant reminded him.


    Although the President had not exined his reasons for doing so, he was mentally agile.


    The President and his wife''s feelings were established under his watch, and the President was not the type to fool around.


    Otherwise now the President would absolutely have children like beans, enough to form ten football teams.


    "You go and arrange it."


    Huo Shaoting was silent for a moment before instructing.


    Zhang Assistant nodded and immediately went out to do it.


    When Rong Dai received Huo Shaoting''s text message, she was having dinner with Tao Yaofang.


    "How do you n to handle the news? If you need my help, just let me know."


    "Thank you Auntie Tao."


    Rong Dai put down her utensils and gently wiped her lips with a napkin.


    "It''s being taken care of. Don''t worry, just watch what happens next."


    Tao Yaofang looked at her as she put down her utensils as well.


    "Does Shaoting know? Aren''t you going to give him an exnation?"


    Tao Yaofang was also surprised that Rong Dai was involved in such a scandal, and abroad at that.


    It was precisely because of her predicament that dealing with it would be even more troublesome.


    She did not know Rong Dai deeply. When the news came out, she specifically asked her assistant to check some of the news exposure on Rong Dai domestically.


    Therefore, regarding the video released by the media, she provided no assistance to Rong Dai and instead invited her to dinner first.


    "Auntie Tao, things are very good between Shaoting and I. This will have no impact."


    "Don''t worry, just watch what happens."


    Rong Dai was clever and Tao Yaofang asking to meet and dine with her at this time was obviously to probe her.


    But there were some things she could not say, she could only touch on them briefly.


    Tao Yaofang looked at her, pondering her words in her heart. In the end, she chose to nod, "Then take care of yourself."


    "Although Huo Ersi has a good rtionship with Shaoting, he is not a simple character. You have to be careful."


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and nodded. Of course she understood these things. Otherwise she wouldn''t have fed all those lessons from her previous life to the dogs!


    Seeing herposure, Tao Yaofang knew there was no point in asking further. After the meal, the two went their separate ways.

 Chapter 537: Dare not answer

    <h4>Chapter 537</h4>


    After returning to Huo Ersi''s club, Zong Che came over with a tablet to "report the situation" to her.


    "The person has already gone in, but it''s just a detention. It will probably only be three days."


    Rong Dai narrowed her eyes slightly: "Three days is enough. Remember to have someone keep a close eye on her."


    "Especially her assistant who follows her everywhere. We can find what we want through her."


    "It''s already arranged." Zong Che nodded, putting away his tablet. "Any news from Mr. Huo Ersi?"


    The feeling of having to rely on others to get things done made Zong Che very ufortable.


    But this wasn''t China, and there were many things he couldn''t do as easily here.


    "We''ll know by tomorrow. No rush."


    Rong Dai was quite calm. She had done Huo Ersi a big favor today by looking into these matters for him without costing any money. He wouldn''t neglect her over this.


    "Also, we''ve identified the ount on that design software. It''s a small ount that was opened many years ago."


    "There''s not much record on it, but we found this."


    Zong Che frowned again as he opened his tablet, erged a photo and showed it to her.


    The photo showed a ss building, and because of the strong light, the photographer was also reflected in it.


    "Isn''t this Mina?"


    Song Xuechun recognized her at a nce, and her face instantly darkened in anger!


    "It''s her."


    Rong Dai also nodded, her eyes sharp.


    Although the photo wasn''t very clear, the person could still be identified.


    "Mina''s mother, Bosha, is an archaeologist. But she went into politics a few years ago and now has some power."


    "Under her orders, several media outlets in Paris have also spread the news about you."


    Zong Che reported with a worried look: "This means if we sue, those media will also have to be sued together."


    "But there''s strength in numbers. I''m worried thewyer Mr. Huo Ersi hired might not dare to take the case."


    The media in Paris had been hyping up the matter since this morning, and Rong Dai''s name had be widely known.


    "And if this matter isn''t handled properly, it could affect the evaluation result of Fashion Wings. That would ruin everything."


    Zong Che''s brows were twisted into knots.


    Rong Dai looked at him: "So what''s your n?"


    "It would be best if we could bring over a Chinesewyer with an international certification. Ji Zheng has his certificate."


    Zong Che suggested.


    Although Huo Ersi and Mr. Huo had a rtionship and would help them, these weren''t their own people after all, and the situation wasplicated. They couldn''t hand everything over.


    "Then contact him toe over."


    Rong Dai had the same concern. Huo Ersi was helping her out of goodwill, not obligation. He was a businessman who only cared about interests.


    If this matter ended up hurting his interests, things would be even worse.


    Zong Che nodded and nced at his watch again. "Also, I''ve rearranged the living situation. We probably can''t go back for the time being."


    "Staying at Huo Ersi''s ce is good, but it affects Miss Rong''s reputation and security. I''ll make arrangements."


    "Mm."


    Rong Dai nodded. Even if Zong Che didn''t bring this up, she would have reminded him.


    This club was mainly used by Huo Ersi for entertaining and pleasure, not a formal hotel. Her staying here long-term would indeed be inappropriate and inconvenient.


    After Zong Che left, Song Xuechun also returned to her room to rest.


    Rong Dai washed up and nced at the time. It was afternoon in China now. Leaning against the bed, she video called Huo Shao Ting.


    Huo Shao Ting was still handling work. Hearing the call, he immediately picked up. As soon as he opened it, he saw her leaning against the bed in a silk nightgown. His adam''s apple involuntarily bobbed.

 Chapter 538: Who is Huo Zong You

    <h4>Chapter 538</h4>


    She could see his subtle movements clearly, and deliberately teased him: "Mr. Huo has a beauty apanying him at night, howe he''s still not satisfied?"


    Huo Shao Ting stared at her, his gaze scorching hot: "No matter how beautiful, it''s not one ten millionth as beautiful as you are in my heart."


    Rong Dai''s earlobes flushed red, and her heart warmed.


    Then she briefly told him about the things over here, and didn''t hide from him the matter of guarding against Huo Ersi.


    "You did very well."


    Huo Shao Ting was not angry at all. His eyes seemed to want to see through the phone screen as he stared at her, giving her great affirmation.


    After the husband and wife had been intimate for more than ten minutes, Rong Dai felt sleepy and couldn''t help but yawn.


    Although Huo Shao Ting still wanted to look at her for longer, he cherished her even more, and after urging her to rest, he hung up the video call.


    Zhang Assistant came in on time: "Boss, it''s time to get ready to attend the banquet. Miss Ying is already prepared."


    Huo Shao Ting stroked his phone, his eyes profound, and responded lightly. Then he continued dealing with work.


    Zhang Assistant: "..."


    Boss, isn''t this thedy you made an appointment with? Isn''t it really okay to not care about it like this now?


    But he didn''t dare say this. He could only lead the way out with the door.


    "When is Mr. Huoing?"


    Ever since receiving the news in the morning, Ying Bingling had been carefully preparing.


    In order to show off her good figure, she hadn''t dared eat anything, just wanting to maintain the best state to attend this charity night.


    But she had been waiting since five o''clock, and now it was already six thirty, still with no news from Huo Shao Ting. She couldn''t help feeling a little anxious.


    "Mr. Huo is busy with work. Since he gave you this opportunity, he won''t go back on his word."


    Ming Xin was actually also anxious in her heart, but this was their "sugar daddy".


    Other than waiting, what else could they do?


    "When Rong Dai is filming, he can fly over there every few days. For me, he can''te just a little earlier?"


    In her journey so far, Ying Bingling had always gotten things her way, with people waiting for her. She had never had the treatment of being left hanging for over an hour.


    She felt a little imbnced and aggrieved in her heart because of this.


    Hearing her speak this way, Ming Xin''s expression suddenly became sharp and solemn: "Watch your words!"


    "Can youpare with the wife? That is the daughter-inw personally chosen by Elder Mrs. Huo."


    "What is Mr. Huo to you? If youin like this in front of me, fine. But if you were to say this kind of thing outside, do you not know what happened to Yang Wanwan?"


    Her words made Ying Bingling''s sweet little face turn pale, and her expression immediately softened: "I won''t say anymore."


    Ming Xin looked deeply at her. As the agent who had brought up this artist, she naturally understood the other''s personality well.


    So when she knew that such a big windfall had fallen into Ying Bingling''sp, she felt half happy and half worried in her heart.


    That was why she had urged Ying Bingling from the very start to not have any extra thoughts because of these things, and even more so not to harbor any fantasy.


    The two of them waited in the lounge until it was almost seven o''clock before Zhang Assistant hurriedly came over.


    Seeing Zhang Assistant appear, Ming Xin and Ying Bingling both heaved a sigh of relief, afraid that they might have gotten their hopes up only to be disappointed again.


    In order to coordinate the full scenario, Zhang Assistant specially dispatched another high-ss nanny van from thepany. Huo Shao Ting was quite satisfied with this arrangement.


    His car was exclusively for his wife.


    When Ying Bingling saw this top-tier nanny van, her eyes lit up.


    The specs on these nanny vans also hadmon rules in the industry. The more highly regarded the person, the higher level their nanny van would be.


    She hadn''t expected that she would also gain such an honor. She carefully lifted her skirt and got into the vehicle.


    Inside the car, Huo Shao Ting wore a dark blue vintage bespoke suit, with thick, lush ck hair that had a lightyer of styling gel, giving off a faint fragrance.


    A strand at his forehead hade loose, adding a touch ofzy and unrestrained charm.


    No matter if this man was just sitting there, the charm he exuded was irresistible to any woman.

 Chapter 539: Jiao to Mr. Huo

    <h4>Chapter 539</h4>


    Ying Bingling sat on one side, Ming Xin sat behind the two, Zhang Assistant sat in the passenger seat, with a bodyguard driving.


    When the scent of Huo Shao Ting''s perfume drilled into his nose, Huo Shao Ting''s brows furrowed imperceptibly, and he ordered the bodyguard, "Drive."


    Ying Bingling was still unaware, slightly taking the initiative to lean to one side, a sweet smile appearing on her face as she looked at Huo Shao Ting, her eyes full of little stars.


    "Mr. Huo, what do I need to do?"


    She asked softly, and although she knew this was just an act, she was still excited beyond words in her heart.


    Huo Shao Ting nced at her lightly, his tone indifferent, "You don''t need to do anything, just keep smiling."


    Ying Bingling was stunned for a moment, and the expectation in her eyes quickly faded.


    Ming Xin in the back row could see clearly. Her heart thumped as she hurriedly gestured to Ying Bingling!


    "Okay..."


    Seeing her frantic signals, and Huo Shao Ting not speaking to her after saying that, Ying Bingling had no choice but to reluctantly agree.


    Because the organizers and Ying Bingling''s Weibo had released news, arge number of Ying Bingling''s fans and many uninvited media gathered at the charity night.


    When they saw the nanny car arrive, these media got very excited!


    Huo Shao Ting got out of the car with a cold look on his face, showing no intention of caring for Ying Bingling at all.


    "Mr. Huo..."


    Seeing this, Ying Bingling bit her lip and got out of the car, calling out to him softly.


    As soon as she appeared, the fans on site erupted!


    Her eyes fell on Huo Shao Ting as she stood by the nanny car without moving, looking at him aggrievedly.


    She looked just like a spoiled wife coquetting with her husband.


    "Damn! This is really having an affair! No other woman has dared to act coquettishly with Mr. Huo in such a public setting!"


    The media immediately reacted as if injected with chicken blood, shooting while specting.


    "Of course, do they even know who our Lingbao is!"


    Ying Bingling''s fans felt a sense of pride, and immediately started singing praises!


    And Ming Xin had wanted to stop her reckless behavior. The agreement clearly stated that Ying Bingling could not act on her own.


    But what was she doing now?!


    Huo Shao Ting halted his footsteps, looking at Ying Bingling coldly. After hesitating for a few seconds he still walked over.


    When her slender hand clung to Huo Shao Ting''s arm, Ying Bingling''s heart suddenly raced!


    She couldn''t help but nce sideways at the god-like man beside her. The throbbing in her heart just wouldn''t stop!


    Once she had thought such a person was like the sun, something she could never reach.


    But now such a scene felt so real. Her brain couldn''t help but fantasize about some beautiful pictures.


    "Damn! My Lingbao is so happy! Her eyes are full of love! I want..."


    The fans became frenzied, their eyes were like magnifying sses.


    So when they saw the blissful look on Ying Bingling''s face, they couldn''t help but cheer.


    The media also captured this scene and was very excited too.


    Huo Shao Ting felt very ufortable, feeling a sense of betrayal towards his wife Yong Dai in his heart. His face was tight and his expression was cold.


    Ming Xin and Zhang Assistant walked side by side behind the two. Both were worldly people.


    Seeing Ying Bingling''s state, Zhang Assistant lowered his voice and asked, "You''d better remind Miss Ying after the banquet."


    "Otherwise the consequences are not something she can bear. The president does not like people taking unteral action."


    Except for his wife.


    Ming Xin of course understood the stakes here: "I will."

 Chapter 540: Just This Once

    <h4>Chapter 540</h4>


    The fans'' cheers did not gradually disappear until the two had finished walking the red carpet. When they arrived at the venue, Huo Shao Ting coldly withdrew his arm.


    The happy smile on Ying Bingling''s face froze before she had time to take it back.


    Seeing his cold expression, she was confused and hastily exined, "Mr. Huo, I just wanted a better effect. I..."


    "Just this once, don''t let it happen again," Huo Shao Ting interrupted her coldly.


    The organizers hade over by now. Ying Bingling felt quite discouraged inside.


    But she didn''t dare make trouble and could only maintain a proper smile by his side.


    When Ming Xin came in, she looked carefully at Ying Bingling''s expression. Her eyes couldn''t help but darken.


    She didn''t take her own words to heart.


    But Ming Xin didn''t think it was right to go remind her now, she could only agonize while waiting for the charity night to end.


    The charity night was very sessful that night, because Huo Shao Ting brought popr starlet Ying Bingling, giving the charity night some free publicity.


    After the charity night ended, screens were filled with news about the two, with all kinds of spection.


    And the photo of Ying Bingling''s happy smile while walking the red carpet was erged. The media used all kinds of words to hype it up.


    It immediately set off hot discussion on Weibo.


    "#The Beautiful Dream of Mrs. Rong Dai''s Family Shattered#"


    "#Huo Shao Ting Has a New Love#"


    "#Popr Starlet Ying Bingling May Rece Mrs. Huo#"


    The three topics rolled on Weibo, and instead decreased the topic "#Rong Dai Meets Mysterious Man Abroad#"


    Seeing the decreased data on Rong Dai''s hot search, Huo Shao Ting returned to Huafu Hill City, satisfied as he curled his lips.


    Then he called his assistant Zhang to instruct him on a few things.


    Zhang felt a big headacheing on. Thinking of Ying Bingling''s performance today, he regretted being loose-lipped back then. Why did he rmend this person?


    She doesn''t understand anything!


    But now there was no solution. The news was already out.


    "Zhang Changdong!"


    In the past few days, Ran Jing had been busy handling the Mn Incense matter and didn''t have time to care about him.


    But today''s explosive news made her feel bad for Rong Dai.


    As soon as she returned home, she roared like a lion!


    Zhang almost went deaf from her shout. He hurriedly went to bring her slippers, asking ingratiatingly, "Is my wife unhappy today?"


    Ran Jing humphed and threw her bag at him before stomping over to sit on the sofa.


    "Sit down first, I have something to ask you."


    Zhang understood his wife. She must be irritated by today''s news!


    His wife would definitely stand on the madam''s side.


    "This matter was nned by the President and Madam. Ying Bingling was also following orders. My wife shouldn''t take it seriously."


    "The President and Madam have a good rtionship, we don''t need to worry."


    After speaking, he grinned and squatted on the carpet to massage Ran Jing''s legs.


    "Really?" Ran Jing was suspicious.


    "Of course it''s true! It''s just that neither the President nor Madam said anything in order to create this ''reality''."


    Zhang spected on his own. He understood the boss''s personality too well.


    Ying Bingling was good, but not to the point of capturing the boss''s heart.


    He reckoned that after this matter ended, if he asked the boss who Ying Bingling was, the boss wouldn''t even remember.


    Only then did Ran Jing''s expression rx, but there was still anger in her beautiful eyes. "But didn''t Ying Bingling act too real?"


    "I''m also a woman. Her eyes were clearly inappropriate!"


    Zhang felt another headacheing. "She''s an actress. If she didn''t even have this level of acting, would the President have picked her?"


    It looked like he still had to remind Ming Xin again about Ying Bingling.


    After all, it wasn''t Ying Bingling''s fault that such an outstanding man might develop feelings.


    But if Ying Bingling had any romantic thoughts, she was finished.

 Chapter 541: I Am Your Friend

    <h4>Chapter 541</h4>


    Ran Jing was half convinced and half skeptical. Although she did not ask again, she immediately went to the study to get online and collect all the photos circting on the Inte.


    After sorting it out, she sent it to Song Xuechun''s private email overnight.


    Song Xuechun had gotten up early. When her phone automatically turned on the message alert at the set time, she clicked to view.


    Seeing the photos above, her face changed drastically!


    "Dai''er!"


    Holding her phone, she knocked on Rong Dai''s door. Rong Dai had just finished working out at this time. Seeing her flustered, she asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Dai''er, you see for yourself! President Huo is really...too much!"


    "So what if he''s the big boss? He''s your husband, he should be loyal to you!"


    "Now the matter has not been investigated clearly, but he went with Ying Bingling..."


    Song Xuechun had a hot temper. She immediately stood up for her!


    Rong Dai took the phone, went into the room after opening the door and looked carefully.


    She of course recognized this person. Yesterday when they video chatted, Shaoting had told her about it.


    "There''s nothing to make a big fuss about."


    "I''m not in the country. I need a femalepanion to attend such events."


    "Miss Ying is an artist under Huo''s entertainmentpany. There won''t be any problems."


    She gave the phone back to Song Xuechun and exined lightly.


    Song Xuechun was immediately wide-eyed, and said in a somewhat resentful manner, "Dai''er, you''re too naive!"


    "President Huo never attends such activities. Not only did he attend this time, but he also took Ying Bingling!"


    "Also, if she was just a femalepanion, why was Ying Bingling smiling so sweetly?"


    "Don''t you think this photo is too ring? This is clearly the look that only couples in love would show!"


    As she spoke, she kept flipping through the photos and anxiously handed them to Rong Dai to see.


    Looking at this picture, Rong Dai''s heart inevitably stung a little.


    But this was what she had asked Shaoting to do, and Shaoting had used the most brutal way, but the effect was the best.


    Even knowing they were acting, Ying Bingling''s gaze... did make people inevitably think otherwise.


    "Shaoting is excellent. It shows I have good taste that Miss Ying admires him."


    "I believe in Shaoting."


    As she spoke, she went to pour herself a ss of water to drink, eliminating that trace of subtle abnormality in her heart.


    "But..."


    "Xuechun, I believe him."


    "If this is the end of my marriage, then I''m willing to ept it. I won''t wrong myself."


    She couldn''t tell Song Xuechun the truth, she could only exin it firmly like this.


    Song Xuechun was stunned, then her expression softened. She walked over and hugged her.


    "Dai''er, I''m your friend. I won''t harm you."


    "If President Huo really betrays you, I will definitely stand by you!"


    "I know there is little I can do to help you, so I can only worry for you."


    "But I hope you know you are not alone. You still have me, Jia Yi, Magnolia Fragrance and so many people who believe in you."


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, and a trace of guilt and remorse rose in her heart.


    She was never used to people being so close to her, but this time Song Xuechun''s embrace did not make her feel ufortable. On the contrary, she felt very warm.


    "I know. Trust me on this matter."


    "When it''s over, I''ll exin it to you."


    Song Xuechun responded, and her arms tightened for a few seconds before loosening, looking at her with red eyes.


    "Dai''er, I just want you to know I''m your friend."


    "Any time you need me, I''m here for you."

 Chapter 542: Hints from Halls

    <h4>Chapter 542</h4>


    "I know, thank you."


    Rong Dai nodded, and just then the room bell rang. Song Xuechun hurriedly wiped her eyes a couple of times and tried to calm her emotions.


    Rong Dai waited until she was ready before going to open the door.


    "Mrs. Huo, Mr. Huo Ersi invites you to join him for breakfast."


    It was Huo Ersi''s secretary.


    Rong Dai nodded, letting him leave first.


    "Order breakfast sent up. I''m afraid you won''t be able to eat againter."


    Recalling the dinner situation yesterday, she had to advise Song Xuechun.


    Song Xuechun nodded. She really didn''t want to see Huo Ersi, and she had something to tell Jia Yi to do.


    Dai''er wasn''t taking it to heart, but as her friend, she had to n ahead.


    Rong Dai got ready and went downstairs. In the dining room there was still only Huo Ersi alone.


    Seeing here over, he immediately stood up and courteously pulled out a chair for her.


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai politely thanked him and sat down.


    Huo Ersi still had that gentle, seemingly modest smile on his face. He had the waiter bring up breakfast.


    Rong Dai didn''t have the habit of discussing matters at the table, and if there was a result, Huo Ersi would give it to her.


    Otherwise, asking was useless and would only annoy people.


    "I''m very sorry about the Mina situation."


    "I originally thought she would be a good candidate to be my wife, but this time I was really disappointed."


    "Mrs. Huo is generous, please excuse me."


    Halfway through the meal, Huo Ersi spoke up with a faint smile, looking at her with very gentle eyes.


    Rong Dai was slightly stunned, paused in motion, a little surprised.


    Huo Ersi was nearly forty, yet he still had no wife. She had thought Mina was his mistress he kept outside.


    "It looks like Mrs. Huo has some misunderstandings about me!"


    Huo Ersi was extremely good at reading people''s expressions to guess their thoughts.


    Seeing Rong Dai''s expression, he immediately understood and mocked himself.


    Rong Dai smiled awkwardly: "I didn''t take Miss Mina''s matter to heart. I just didn''t expect Mr. Huo Ersi to be so young and aplished, yet not already married."


    "After all, men as excellent as you are rare these days."


    Business ttery that wouldn''t make her lose face, but she was also a little puzzled why Huo Ersi would suddenly say such things.


    This feeling... seemed to be hinting something to her.


    Whether he was married or not had nothing to do with her, and she didn''t care either.


    And Huo Ersi should also understand this, so why would he say such thought-provoking words to her?


    "Mrs. Huo tters me."


    Huo Ersi smiled gently, then gestured for his secretary to bring over the documents and handed them to her, ending the topic.


    "These are all the documents the madam wanted. If the madam reviews them and there are no issues, I''ll arrange for someone to meet with you at noon."


    "Thank you for your efforts, Sir."


    Rong Dai nodded, discarding the strange feeling in her heart and seriously looking over the investigation reports in her hands.


    The thick stack of documents was half ckmail material on that media outlet.


    The rest were her and that foreign man''s test reports, as well as some investigation reports on rted personnel that were needed.


    "Please go ahead and arrange it, Sir. The documents are very detailed."


    She finally spoke after a few minutes.


    Huo Ersi nodded in acknowledgment. Looking at her, he asked, "Does the madam y polo? I set up a field recently."


    "If the madam is interested, we can go experience it in the morning."


    Seeing him extend an invitation, Rong Dai put the documents down and nodded, "I''ll follow the sir''s arrangements. I probably can''t wander the streets of Paris freely these next few days either."


    Huo Ersi smiled and nodded, ordering his secretary to go make arrangements.


    "The madam can bring her friend. When the matter is resolved, I can arrange for someone to apany the madam out to experience the streets."


    Rong Daiughed faintly with a sigh: "Then that probably won''t be until next time."


    Huo Ersi was really a bit strange today. She didn''t dare get too close with such a dangerous man either, so she could only make excuses to decline.

 Chapter 543: Think of Her as a Hostess

    <h4>Chapter 543</h4>


    Huo Ersi saw through it but did not point it out. After the two had breakfast, the secretary had already arranged everything.


    Rong Dai took Song Xuechun with her and sat in the minivan. After instructing Zong Che, they went to another polo field.


    The polo field was attached to an estate. Song Xuechun could not help but admire it.


    In her previous life, Rong Dai had seen countless treasures, and had been to the royal gardens a few times.


    Such scale buildings were still not enough to shock her. With a gentle and polite smile on her face, she followed Huo Ersi into the estate.


    "Huo Ersi!"


    As soon as they entered, they heard a sonorous voice.


    There were already many people in the estate, and at first nce, these people were all upper-ss nobles.


    The smile on Huo Ersi''s face was more enthusiastic than usual. While chatting with these people, he introduced Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai did not expect it to be such a scene. She could only maintain her smile on her face and converse fluently in French.


    After a round, Rong Dai felt a little tired.


    But the problem was that these people had also brought their wives and children. As Huo Ersi''s friend, she attended.


    These nobledies retained the social skills of upper-ss Western women, and they all came over enthusiastically to greet her.


    This group of people was not like yesterday''s. Although some were very doubtful of her, no one would be rude, let alone disrespectful.


    "Dai''er, what does this Mr. Huo Ersi mean?"


    "It''s obvious that these people have brought their wives. Isn''t it too disrespectful for him to do this?"


    "Although President Huo did that, we can''t learn from him. What is Huo Ersi''s intention with this arrangement?"


    When the two finally got a break, Song Xuechun noticed something wrong and could not help asking Rong Dai.


    In such an asion, Rong Dai should be a guest.


    But Huo Ersi''s arrangement was as if he regarded Rong Dai as...the hostess!


    Rong Dai had been smiling all the time. At this moment she rxed and felt her face was a little stiff, so she gently patted it.


    "It won''t be like that, don''t overthink it."


    Although she verbally reassured Song Xuechun, she understood very well in her heart.


    Huo Ersi''s arrangement was really thought-provoking.


    "Did I really overthink it?"


    Song Xuechun hesitated, feeling that something was wrong everywhere.


    Rong Dai could only nod. It seemed that she had to move out of Huo Ersi''s club as soon as possible.


    She sent Zong Che a message, and suddenly lost interest in ying polo.


    But Huo Ersi''s friends and these nobledies were very excited, their eyes shining as they looked at Huo Ersi.


    "Is Mr. Huo Ersi''s polo skills very good?"


    Song Xuechun was a curious baby who had to ask about everything.


    Seeing the reaction of these people, she could not help asking.


    Rong Dai shook her head. How could she know about this?


    "Go get changed. Even if you don''t know how to y, you have to follow the local customs here."


    Seeing those nobledies going down to change clothes, she also reminded Song Xuechun.


    Under the guidance of bodyguards, the two went to the changing room.


    Rong Dai had never worn modern polo clothes before, so her movements were a bit slow. Song Xuechun was about the same.


    Therefore, the two lingered in the changing room for a long time beforeing out.


    As soon as they came out, they were blocked by a tall, blonde and blue-eyed young woman.


    "I''m Mei Li. Remember this name, Oriental women."


    "Now that you''re married, you should be more settled and note out to give other men fantasies."


    Mei Li''s voice was slightly shrill, and her gaze at Rong Dai was fierce.


    After speaking, she weighed the wooden polo mallet in her hand, then turned and left arrogantly.


    Rong Dai: "..."


    Had she been seeing ghosts these past two days?


    Or had she offended the Grim Reaper of the West?


    It was Mina yesterday and Mei Li today.


    Would it be Maria tomorrow?

 Chapter 544: Team up with Him

    <h4>Chapter 544</h4>


    ��What did she say?��


    Song Xuechun was at a disadvantage with thenguage,pletely unable to understand, and could only ask Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai didn��t want her to get angry again, so she exined with a smile, ��She just wants to challenge my polo skills.��


    Song Xuechun had no doubts. She immediately looked at her worriedly and asked, ��But can you y polo?��


    You have to know that Dai''er was terrified of riding horses before!


    Besides, polo requires horsemanship skills first and foremost, followed by ball skills.


    ��I know a little. Now that I''ve married into a wealthy family, I must know a little about these high-end recreational activities.��


    Rong Dai replied with a smile.


    In her previous life, polo was also one of the aristocratic social activities, called maball, also known as mall jock.


    The noble families attached great importance to the cultivation of their children. Men were required to master the six arts:


    Namely, ritual, music, archery, horsemanship, calligraphy, mathematics. At the very least, they had to master the five ssics and six arts.


    The cultivation of women was equally important, because women were responsible for maintaining harmony in the family, developing rtionships within the family, and educating children.


    Therefore, the four arts of qin, chess, calligraphy and painting, poetry and dance, as well as embroidery, and knowledge of household affairs were also necessities.


    The rest were these essential social recreational activities. Mallet and equestrian skills were a must.


    Not some kind of leisurely life of living in idleness, these were all basic skills.


    In her previous life, her family was prominent and she was of noble status. Her parents'' education of her was even more demanding, and she was from a distinguished family.


    So she was also quite aplished in archery and swordsmanship.


    Although these things may not necessarilye in handy, there was inevitably a need topete in aristocratic circles.


    If you don''t know how, you''ll be aughing stock and won''t hold your head high.


    Because these things gave women an edge, providing better conditions to choose a husband, so the noble families attached great importance to them.


    Her equestrian and polo skills were personally taught by her father. Before she got married, she was always at the top of these projects in the capital''s aristocratic circle.


    In her previous life, polo was a very important social activity among the aristocrats, but she didn''t expect that in this afterlife,


    this skill of Huaxia had declined, while Western countries valued it more.


    ��That��s good then. Be careful.��


    ��We��re just going through the motions, no need to take it too seriously.��


    ��I don''t know how to y polo. I just know this sport has a pretty high risk factor. Don''t fall down.��


    When Song Xuechun heard her say this, she nodded without any doubt, still worried and urging caution.


    Rong Dai smiled and nodded. The two then went to the hall.


    ��Mrs. Huo, try this polo mallet, I think you''ll like the feel.��


    Shortly after the two arrived in the lobby, Huo Ersi had also changed into polo clothes, looking different from usual, very eye-catching.


    He brought over two polo mallets and handed one of them to her personally.


    Rong Dai did not stand on ceremony: ��Thank you.��


    She took the polo mallet and tried it out in her hand. It was very handy indeed.


    ��Ms. Song, this is yours.��


    Huo Ersi smiled faintly and had his secretary hand the polo mallet to Song Xuechun.


    ��The mallet is very good.��


    Rong Dai tried it a few times and was very satisfied.


    Huo Ersi looked at her, the appreciation in his eyes undisguised.


    Dressed in polo clothes, Rong Dai looked gant and very eye-catching.


    ��It''s good that Madam likes it. Today we''re just having fun, nopetitive restrictions.��


    ��Just now they proposed that husband and wife form a pair, four pairs a group. I don''t have a female partner, so I may have to impose on Mrs. Huo.��


    Huo Ersi obviously had ulterior motives, but he spoke very humbly, leaving Rong Dai no reason to refuse.


    ��It��s alright, it��s just for fun.��


    Rong Dai smiled lightly in response.

 Chapter 545: Refuse Her Request

    <h4>Chapter 545</h4>


    ��Huo Ersi, may I be yourpanion?�� Rong Dai asked.


    ��Together, we can do justice to this field,�� Huo Ersi replied.


    No sooner had Rong Dai��s words fallen than Mei Li��s voice rang out.


    ��Why her?��


    Song Xuechun frowned in displeasure and grumbled under her breath.


    Rong Dai said nothing, merely raising her eyes to look indifferently at Mei Li as she approached them.


    Mei Li had typical Western features, especially her eyes, as blue as sapphires, very charming.


    The undisguised arrogance on her face, the contemptuous nce she shot Rong Dai, mixed with a hint of viciousness, instantly destroyed the beauty imparted by her eyes.


    ��Is she poisonous? When did we ever offend her?��


    Seeing such a look from her, Song Xuechun was immediately displeased.


    Rong Dai��s eyes were deep as she nced at Huo Ersi and said softly, ��She likes Huo Ersi.��


    ��Then she really is sick! You''re already married, why make trouble for you?��


    Song Xuechun''s thought processes were a bit slower, and she still didn''t understand the implication of Rong Dai''s words.


    Rong Dai pressed her lips together and said nothing. Huo Ersi''s behavior today had been very strange.


    While it was true he had been rude, it was a genuine rudeness.


    But when examined closely, it didn''t seem too over the top.


    She could only say that Huo Ersi had grasped the perfect bnce, leaving her unable to refuse yet unable to pick out any ws.


    But these actions, seen through the eyes of Mei Li, who liked him, were like a thorn, giving her every reason to target Rong Dai.


    Although Huo Ersi hadn''t heard their conversation, when he saw Mei Li approach, his eyes chilled slightly.


    ��I''ve already invited Mrs. Huo. There are many fine young gentlemen here today, Miss Mei Li can choose someone else.��


    Huo Ersi rejected her without hesitation, maintaining a certain distance from Mei Li.


    The smile didn''t leave Mei Li''s face, and although her gaze was smiling, it radiated an icy coldness as she looked over at Rong Dai.


    ��So this is Mrs. Huo? She really is a gorgeous beauty.��


    Song Xuechun didn''t understand, so Rong Dai quietly tranted for her by her side.


    ��This woman is so hypocritical! She was just blocking our way earlier!��


    Rong Dai looked at Mei Li with a faint smile, eyes ncing at Huo Ersi. She was starting to understand why Huo Ersi had acted so strangely today.


    ��But as far as I know, intense sports requiring technique aren''t something Oriental women are good at.��


    ��Mr. Huo is exceptionally skilled at polo, I don''t think Mrs. Huo wants to embarrass Mr. Huo, right?��


    Mei Li''s words took a sudden turn, directly putting the choice before Rong Dai.


    Hearing Mei Li''s words, the nobledies and madams present couldn''t help but change color slightly, but no one dared to interject.


    If it had been up to them, perhaps they would have ��tactfully�� descended the steps.


    However, being coerced was not Rong Dai''s style.


    She looked at Mei Li with a confident, charming smile.


    ��Mr. Huo, are you afraid? I really might drag you down!��


    ��But I''ll do my best not to embarrass you.��


    Her voice was clear and ethereal, very pleasing to the ear.


    Huo Ersi smiled back at her, a warm and gentlemanly smile. ��Of course not, today is just for fun.��


    Mei Li''splexion instantly turned gloomy, her gaze fixed malevolently on Rong Dai, her voice extremely cold and full of menace. ��So, Mrs. Huo, you''re rejecting my request?��


    Rong Dai sneered inwardly. You look down on me arrogantly, should I really give you face?


    She put on a surprised look. ��Request? Just now...was Miss Mei Li making a request of me?��


    Having said that, she didn''t wait for Mei Li''s ugly expression before looking slightly remorseful. ��Then it must be differences in how we Easterners and Westerners express ourselves that led me to misunderstand Miss Mei Li''s meaning.��


    ��I thought Miss Mei Li was kindly reminding me, but thank you. Still, I''d like to experience it myself.��


    Her smiling face was so sincere that no trace of deliberate intent could be found.

 Chapter 546: Better Drop Her.

    <h4>Chapter 546</h4>


    Mei Li''s eyes were unusually sharp as she stared intently at her, her pretty face tense and somewhat fierce-looking.


    "Mei Li, can I be your partner?"


    Just as the atmosphere was bing awkward, a man walked over and gently but nervously asked.


    Mei Li looked at him in disgust and after seeing that Huo Ersi didn''t speak again, she reluctantly agreed, "Don''t drag me down!"


    "I won''t!"


    Having obtained Mei Li''s consent, the man was overjoyed!


    "Ms. Huo pleasee this way."


    After getting rid of Mei Li, Huo Ersi seemed much more rxed.


    "Who is this Miss Mei Li? She seems to admire you a lot, why don''t you try approaching her?"


    Seeing Mei Li''s angry departing figure, Rong Dai felt puzzled.


    If thatwyer didn''t lie to her, with Huo Ersi''s status in Paris, even high officials probably wouldn''t dare disrespect him. But this Mei Li seemed to give him a headache.


    Huo Ersi''s smile remained gentle, "I don''t like women who are too forward. Too forward womenck a sense of conquest."


    Rong Dai knew this was just an excuse to fob her off. This Mei Li''s identity wouldn''t be so simple. Otherwise, there were so many famousdies, noblewomen and madams at the scene who all kept their distance from this Mei Li.


    She didn''t ask any further and followed Huo Ersi out of the venue to watch others y first.


    It had been a very long time since shest held a polo mallet. She wondered if her skills had gotten rusty.


    After watching a few games, the atmosphere on site was great. Clearly this sport was very popr among Western aristocratic circles.


    Especially those with excellent horsemanship and ball skills would receive overtures from many people.


    This was the halo effect brought about by mastering an outstanding skill.


    "Ms. Huo, it''s our turn now."


    Huo Ersi invited her. Rong Dai gave a faint smile and nodded, while putting on her gloves.


    "Be careful, Die''er!"


    Seeing that Mei Li was actually going to y, Song Xuechun instantly changed her expression.


    Rong Dai nced at her indifferently, "Don''t worry."


    Although she said this, Song Xuechun''s worried and anxious face remained taut.


    "Ms. Huo, this horse suits you very well, it''s quite docile."


    Huo Ersi was very thoughtful and personally selected a mount for her.


    Rong Dai looked at the horse and shook her head, "I like spirited horses."


    With that said, she went to choose one herself and at a nce, singled out a shiny, sleek brown-ck horse.


    "This one."


    Her eyes lit up but just as she was about to reach out and stroke it, the horse suddenly neighed and struggled!


    The groom quickly grabbed the reins to prevent it from hurting anyone.


    "Ms. Huo, although this is a fine horse, its temperament is too spirited. It might injure you."


    Huo Ersi shook his head. Although he admired Rong Dai''s courage, even the most outstanding groom couldn''t handle this horse.


    "No, I want this one."


    Rong Dai continued to refuse, her words firm as she looked at the horse very eagerly.


    When the onlookers saw her insist on choosing this horse, they couldn''t help but gasp. Apparently everyone knew this horse''s temperament.


    "Then try it first. If it doesn''t work out we can change it."


    Huo Ersi had no choice but to let her try the horse first while his secretary put on a leg guard for his slightlyme left leg.


    Rong Dai nodded and handed her polo mallet to a bodyguard nearby. After exchanging a few words with the groom, she took the reins.


    As the reins reached her hands, the horse''s struggles and resistance intensified!


    "This ignorant Oriental woman! Still wants to show off? Best to fall to your death!"


    Sitting atop her mount at a distance, Mei Li watched this scene with eyes full of hatred and anticipation.

 Chapter 547: The Sick Man is the Sick Man.

    <h4>Chapter 547</h4>


    Rong Dai''s eyes revealed a stern look. With one hand tightly pulling the reins, she gantly swung her leg over the horse!


    The temperament of the horse was violent. It shook its body vigorously on the spot, wanting to throw Rong Dai off its back!


    Huo Ersi and the horse trainer watched with great anxiety. The guests in the spectator stand couldn''t help but cry out.


    Song Xuechun''s face turned pale when she saw Rong Dai''s body tilting along with the horse''s shaking.


    Rong Dai''s face was tense as she wrapped the reins around her hand twice and pulled tightly!


    The front hooves of the horse suddenly left the ground as it angrily neighed towards the sky!


    "Mrs. Huo!"


    Seeing this scene made Huo Ersi rmed, and he couldn''t help but shout out.


    But Rong Dai ignored him. She squeezed the horse''s abdomen with both legs as the horsended back on the ground, shaking its head and swishing its tail as it stood in ce snorting.


    The horse trainer looked at the tamed horse in amazement and couldn''t help but ask Rong Dai, "Madam, how did you do it?"


    At this time, Rong Dai loosened one circle of the reins with a charming smile on her face, "Animals are spirited beings. This horse is a remarkably fine one."


    "It is inherently arrogant like a human. If you fear it, it can sense it and will naturally not allow itself to be tamed by you."


    "A powerful living being can only be conquered by something even more powerful. Only then will it submit."


    The horse trainer nodded in partial understanding as he handed her the polo mallet.


    The worry in Huo Ersi''s eyespletely dissipated, reced by admiration and appreciation, "I didn''t expect Mrs. Huo to have such insights into horse training."


    Rong Dai pulled the reins taut as she sat gantly on horseback.


    At this moment, she exuded a dazzling radiance. Her nobility and aloofness seemed innate.


    "I''m just following what Little Ling taught me. I hope I didn''t make a fool of myself in front of you!"


    She softly replied, her beautiful eyes profound, making it impossible to discern her inner thoughts.


    The smile on Huo Ersi''s face remained, but his gaze deepened.


    Everyone present was amazed to see Rong Dai effortlessly tame this fiery horse and couldn''t help but sing praises.


    Seeing this scene, the vicious look in Mei Li''s eyes intensified. She gripped the polo mallet tightly, her face full of hostility!


    The game began with two opposing teams of four yers each.


    Rong Dai, Huo Ersi and another couple were on one team, while Mei Li, Miki and another young couple were on the other.


    Seeing Mei Li take the field, Huo Ersi''s brows furrowed slightly.


    But with her already on the field, it would be inappropriate for him to drive her away.


    After the referee gave the signal, the sound of galloping horses rang out across the field.


    Mei Li raced ahead of the others. Whether it was horse riding skills or striking the ball, her performance was impable!


    ording to the standard rules, each game should have 8 chukkas.


    But since this was just for entertainment, they agreed to only y 4 chukkas of 7 minutes each.


    In the first two chukkas, Mei Li yed very impressively while Rong Dai''s team suffered consecutive losses.


    "Be careful, Oriental woman!"


    "I won''t be holding back in the next round. You won''t score a single point!"


    "A sick man is just a sick man. All he can do is show off!" She sneered contemptuously.


    During the break after the second chukka, Mei Li passed by Rong Dai and warned her arrogantly.


    Rong Dai looked at her impassively, "I look forward to Miss Mei Li''s performance."


    Having said that, she lightly squeezed the horse''s abdomen, preparing to leave.


    Seeing the hatred in Mei Li''s eyes, she suddenly loosened her grip on the polo mallet and smashed it against the rump of Rong Dai''s horse!


    This horse was inherently violent in the first ce. Although it had been tamed by Rong Dai, this sudden shock made the horse go mad!


    "I''m so sorry. My hand felt a little numb after hitting the ball too hard just now."


    "Mrs. Huo, do you need any help?"


    Seeing the horse shake violently with Rong Dai nearly falling off its back, Mei Li had a gloating smile on her face as she deliberately asked.

 Chapter 548: You鈥檙e a Loser.

    <h4>Chapter 548</h4>


    Mei Li''s face was full of anger, and she quickly calmed the horse down.


    She took a deep look at Miki, her eyes as cold as frost, and left without responding to Miki.


    "Dai''er, are you alright?"


    "This Mei Li is simply outrageous! If you had fallen, eight of her heads still wouldn''t be enough topensate!"


    Having witnessed the scene just now clearly, Song Xuechun immediately handed Rong Dai a towel and purified water when she came back.


    Her face was worried and angry at the same time, unable to hold back her scolding!


    Rong Dai took a few sips of water and used the towel to wipe the fine sweat on her face. She nced coldly at Mei Li who was not far away: "I''m fine, don''t worry."


    "How could I not worry? This polo is so dangerous, this woman is just crazy!"


    "Why don''t we just stop ying? Except for professional athletes, we rarely y this kind of sport in China!"


    "These Westerners y it often, we can''tpare with them. Let''s just walk through it for show."


    Song Xuechun was worried about her safety.


    Rong Dai shook her head: "Polo is not a Western monopoly. Do you know that China had the sport of cuju since the Han Dynasty?"


    "Don''t worry, I won''t lose."


    "As the old master said, if you want to take something, you must first give it. What''s wrong with letting her win first?"


    Seeing her so confident, Song Xuechun hesitated.


    But the break time was up, so she had to stop talking.


    After the third section started, the on-site crowd was no longer as expectant as before.


    After all, Rong Dai''s team had been at a disadvantage in the previous two sections.


    Rong Dai nced at the couple they were cooperating with.


    It''s not that they were ying badly, it''s just that the act of letting water was too obvious.


    The couple ignored her gaze, and continued to let water once the game started.


    Considering that Rong Dai was not very skilled, Huo Ersi ced her in the fourth position as the back organizer.


    The couple acted as the second and third yers, while Huo Ersi was the striker.


    But with the couple always letting water, no matter how good Huo Ersi''s skills were, he could not lead the team.


    After observing the situation on the court, Rong Dai saw that yer number 2 was about to let water again.


    Her eyes narrowed as she shouted, "Huo Ersi!"


    Huo Ersi knew that the couple was letting water, but there was nothing he could criticize them for since they were on the court. Although it was just entertainment, always being at a disadvantage inevitably made him unhappy.


    Hearing Rong Dai call him, he immediately looked over.


    He saw Rong Dai tuck her belly close to the horse''s body with her body almost leaning to one side of the horse''s belly as she charged towards yer number 2!


    She swung the polo stick vigorously!


    Bang!


    A solid sound rang out as the ball flew towards Huo Ersi''s stick!


    Huo Ersi''s eyes lit up and he swung his stick!


    A perfect shot!


    After hearing the referee''s order, Mei Li''s expression darkened and she stared fiercely at Rong Dai like a venomous scorpion!


    As for the couple on Rong Dai''s team, they were a little confused. The previous scene happened too fast, and they didn''t even see clearly how Rong Dai passed the ball to Huo Ersi!


    With this ball as a starting point, Rong Dai and Huo Ersi cooperated very tacitly.


    The two scored consecutively, while the couple became almost useless.


    At the end of the third section, the scores between the two teams were tied.


    This made Mei Li��s face turn green!


    "Mei Li, don''t get angry."


    "Let''s cooperate with youter for Huo Ersi sir, we��ll definitely win."


    Miki handed her purified water and towels, seeing her sullen expression, he hurried to appease her.


    "Win what? You useless trash! Not even as good as that cheap Oriental!"


    With her ming temper, Mei Li immediately scolded him on the spot.


    Her voice was loud and many people nearby heard it.


    Miki''s face immediately turned red with embarrassment, but he dared not refute her.

 Chapter 549: This is My Return

    <h4>Chapter 549</h4>


    ��This woman is really sick!��


    This time Song Xuechun learned to be smart, and kept the trantion app on her phone recording.


    Moreover, this was the yers'' rest area, so she could hear Mei Li''s words clearly.


    When she heard Mei Li cursing Rong Dai, she was so angry that her face turned ashen!


    "It''s okay, cursing me won''t make me lose any flesh, can she eat me up? Why get angry at yourself?"


    Rong Dai smiled andforted her while wiping off sweat.


    Song Xuechun pouted, although she shut up, she resented Mei Li in her heart!


    After a 5-minute break, thest section of the game began.


    This time Mei Li was even more vicious!


    Because it was just for fun, the rules were not as strict as in formalpetitions, and some minor details were ignored.


    Because in the third section, Rong Dai and Huo Ersi cooperated very well, and they scored continuously.


    And the couple they teamed up with didn''t dare to lose on purpose under pressure either.


    So their team yed very smoothly, while Mei Li''s team was gloomy.


    As soon as Mei Li didn''t y well, she would burst out cursing her teammates on the court.


    The young couple''s faces were ugly, although they really wanted to quit, but there were so many influential people watching.


    And Mei Li was the mayor''s daughter, they didn''t dare to talk back either, they just didn''t look very happy.


    Miki had it the worst, being scolded by Mei Li until he was furious on the court!


    "This despicable Oriental woman!"


    When the third goal was scored, Mei Li cursed angrily!


    After switching sides, Mei Li saw Rong Dai about to hit the ball!


    Her eyes were vicious! Suddenly she squeezed her thighs and rushed over, swinging her polo stick violently at Rong Dai''s wrist!


    Everyone was shocked, although they knew Mei Li had a spoiled and arrogant personality, no one expected her to dare attack someone openly like this!


    If shended that hit, the Oriental woman''s wrist would probably break...


    "This cheap woman!"


    Song Xuechun cried out and stood up staring closely!


    Rong Dai''s eyes suddenly darkened, and the polo stick in her hand slipped out!


    Then she quickly lowered her body, leaning sideways against the horse''s belly, her body almost touching the ground!


    This scene was extremely thrilling, everyone who saw it held their breath anxiously!


    Mei Li''s polo stick barely missed her as it swung past her face, and the stick Rong Dai had let go returned to her hand. Her body was tightly pressed against the horse''s belly as she forcefully swung the stick to hit the ball!


    Yet another perfect shot!


    "You garbage Oriental woman!"


    Mei Li was humiliated into anger, and didn''t care about the ball anymore. She swung the stick directly at Rong Dai''s horse''s leg!


    Although the horse''s hooves were protected, Mei Li''s blow would definitely make the horse copse!


    The consequences would be unimaginable!


    Everyone on and off the court was so scared they forgot to breathe. Huo Ersi rode over on horseback.


    But he was too far away to help in time.


    Rong Dai''s eyes were icy cold, her face revealing viciousness!


    She forcefully pushed herself up, pulling her body back onto the horse''s back - no one saw clearly how she did it.


    "Ah!"


    All anyone heard was Mei Li''s scream as she and her horse tumbled to the ground!


    While Rong Dai steadily sat on horseback, cold as an empress looking down condescendingly at Mei Li, whose hand was crushed under the horse, twisting in pain.


    "Well punished! Well done, Dai''er!"


    Song Xuechun cheered loudly on the spot, also heaving a big sigh of relief.


    "Mei Li!"


    Miki was closest to her and immediately pulled the reins to dismount and help her up.


    "My hand! Call a doctor quickly!"


    Mei Li''s face was twisted in pain, although her hand only seemed to be scraped.


    But Rong Dai knew Mei Li''s hand was crippled.


    By her.


    She watched Mei Li coldly, speaking icily: "Harming others ultimately harms oneself, Miss Mei Li. This is my return gift to you."

 Chapter 550: Do You Know Who I Am

    <h4>Chapter 550</h4>


    "You, you wicked Oriental woman! Do you know who I am?! How dare you hurt me?! I will make you pay!"


    Despite the excruciating pain in her wrist, this did not stop Mei Li from hurling abuse at Rong Dai!


    Rong Dai gave a coldugh, yanked the reins, and moved a few steps closer to her.


    Mei Li''s face turned pale in an instant, and she instinctively tried to shuffle back, feeling her scalp tingle under Rong Dai''s icy cold gaze!


    "Wicked? If you hadn''t attacked me first, would I have fought back?"


    "I did hurt you, so what? It was self-defense."


    "Pay the price? This is your price - don''t expect to pick up a polo mallet again in future!"


    Rong Dai swept her a sinister nce, then spurred the horse on and left like a queen.


    "This Oriental woman, I want her dead! I want her dead... Ah, my hand, send me to the hospital quickly..."


    After Rong Dai had left, Mei Li only then reacted, tearing her throat as she let out a earth-shattering shriek!


    Miki stood by her side like a servant, catering to her everymand.


    Because of this incident, the guests who hade to participate no longer had any mood to continue ying polo.


    Although they had seen the earlier scene of Mei Li breaking the rules of the game and rushing forward to strike at this Oriental woman''s wrist.


    But in the end, it was Mei Li who fell off her horse and broke her hand.


    Even though some looked at Rong Dai with admiration in their eyes, there were more hostile stares aimed at her from the spectator stands.


    Rong Dai felt the waves of unfriendliness directed at her.


    She removed her helmet, allowing her sleek hair to cascade down, emitting a heroic ir mixed with a hint of charm.


    "Dai''er, well done!"


    Song Xuechun immediately put away her phone and handed Rong Dai a towel and mineral water, while taking over her helmet.


    "That Mei Li deserved it, I didn''t expect Westerners could be so vicious when provoked!"


    Rong Dai looked at her and motioned with her chin towards the spectator stands, "Mei Li''s identity is likely not simple."


    "You should understand the logic of different species having different hearts. Today, I''m the one who broke Mei Li''s hand."


    "Even if Mei Li was in the wrong first, they would still think I went overboard."


    "Watch, looks like we''ll have to stay in Paris for some time."


    "Call Zong Che toe get us."


    Seeing Rong Dai gesture, Song Xuechun immediately wiped the smile from her face and nced at the spectator stands. Indeed there were people with very ugly expressions, even interrogating Huo Ersi.


    "Let''s go over."


    Holding her polo stick, Rong Dai said lightly.


    Although feeling apprehensive, seeing how calm Rong Dai appeared, Song Xuechun still followed her over.


    "Why do you not dare to question me directly? Why make things difficult for Mr. Huo Ersi ?"


    A faint smile lingered on her lips, but her eyes emitted an awe-inspiring chilliness.


    Upon seeing her approach, those erstwhile admiring nobledies and debutantes instinctively shrunk back, looking at her with contempt and slivers of fear in their eyes.


    "Mr. Huo Ersi, if you need my cooperationter, I will be avable anytime."


    "Now I will take my leave, does anyone want to stop me?"


    Her gaze was frigid as she did not even cast a single look at Huo Ersi.


    She had been utterly taken advantage of by Huo Ersi today!


    Huo Ersi: "Madam Huo, let me send someone to..."


    Rong Dai gave him an icy stare "There''s no need, my people wille for me."


    Did he think she was stupid?!


    She could temporarily tolerate his using her as a shield to block Mei Li, after all she needed something from him now.


    But Mei Li wanted to cripple her hand!


    "Regarding today''s affairs, my dealings with Mr. Huo Ersi, we''re even."


    "This time, I thoroughly experienced the gentlemanly manners of your country."


    She gave a cold mockingugh, casually tossing aside the polo stick then headed straight with Song Xuechun back to the dressing room to change.

 Chapter 551: Money Talks

    <h4>Chapter 551</h4>


    "Dai, but if so, without Mr. Huo Ersi''s help, what should we do about our matter?"


    After changing clothes, the two walked out of the manor and waited by the roadside for Zong Che toe.


    Rong Dai had a profound look in her eyes: "The information has been obtained. Although this is a foreignnd, it is true that our work has been hindered."


    "But the locals will not be obstructed in their work. Money can move even ghosts to grind."


    "Matters that can be resolved with money are more convenient than those resolved by personal connections."


    Song Xuechun seemed to understand and not understand. The two waited for nearly half an hour before Zong Che''s car arrived.


    By the time Huo Ersi came out of the manor to find them after handling things inside, there was no trace of the two.


    When he called back to the club to ask the bodyguards to detain Rong Dai and the others, Rong Dai and the others had just left the club.


    Song Xuechun was a chatterbox. Although she was a little afraid of Zong Che, she was very angry about this matter.


    So as soon as she got in the car, she bombarded him nonstop, and Zong Che''s face was extremely gloomy.


    "Manager Rong, we already have the information."


    "Now that we have offended Huo Ersi, things will be difficult, but I have contacted someone."


    "It''s noon now, he just happens to have break time, so why don''t we go eat and meet him at the same time?"


    Zong Che''s voice turned cold. This concerned Rong Dai''s reputation, so of course he would not hand over full authority to Huo Ersi to handle it.


    Fortunately, he had an ace up his sleeve, otherwise would Huo Ersi do even more disgusting things tomorrow?


    "Then let''s go meet him."


    Rong Dai was also in a bad mood. She had discussed with Zong Che beforehand to also be on guard against Huo Ersi.


    She didn''t expect that before the matter was finished, Huo Ersi made the first move.


    Thinking of the scene of Mei Li tapping her wrist, she even had the urge to kill Mei Li at that moment!


    The polo mallet was made of solid wood, hard and heavy. With that blow from Mei Li, her hand would definitely be crippled!


    Let her endure it?


    That was impossible!


    Zong Che soon drove the two to a Chinese restaurant. The owner was also Chinese, the food was very good, and the aroma filled the air.


    The three waited a few minutes before a man in a suit carrying a briefcase hurried in.


    "Zong Che!"


    Seeing Zong Che, Mo Jinsen''s eyes lit up and he shouted, then the two hugged.


    "Manager Rong, this is my best friend Mo Jinsen."


    "Mrs. Huo, I have long admired you by name!"


    Mo Jinsen held out his hand. Rong Dai stood up and politely shook his hand briefly.


    "I already understand what happened. Take a look at this information first."


    "If I had known that Zong Che and you woulde to Paris, I wouldn''t have gone on a business trip. This matter could have been resolved earlier for you. Now it''s a bit tricky."


    "But don''t worry, Huo Ersi knows Mrs. Huo your identity, he wouldn''t dare do anything."


    "Unless he wants to lose his rice bowl."


    Mo Jinsen had a mysterious smile on his face. After sitting down, he got straight to the point.


    "ording to Mrs. Huo''s n, this is very feasible."


    "I have some connections and have also informed the police station. The person will stay inside for another two days."


    "That''s enough time for us to handle things."


    Rong Dai looked at the information in her hand, it was the local media that first exposed the video.


    "If Mrs. Huo has no objections, I can file an appeal with the court this afternoon."


    "For the media, I have contacted three media outlets, and had people write the manuscripts. It just depends on what Mrs. Huo thinks."


    Mo Jinsen quickly expressed what he wanted to say clearly, without any equivocation.

 Chapter 552: Making a Complaint

    <h4>Chapter 552</h4>


    Rong Dai looked at Zong Che, then shifted her gaze to Mo Jinsen: ��Then let��s do it Mr. Mo��s way.��


    Mo Jinsen nodded and talked about some details.


    Rong Dai told Mo Jinsen what had happened at the polo field. He justughed and said, ��Mrs. Huo, President Huo has a big influence over Huo Ersi.��


    ��As long as President Huo is willing, all of Huo Ersi''s businesses will suffer losses. He can''t afford to gamble."


    "I''ve also heard a little about Mei Li''s affection for Huo Ersi. Mei Li is the mayor''s daughter, used to being arrogant and domineering relying on her father''s power and influence."


    "Huo Ersi is not stupid. He won''t marry such a woman, but at the same time, he can''t avoid her either."


    "Everyone else knows Mei Li''s status, of course they don''t dare retaliate like you did, Madam."


    "I guess Huo Ersi himself regrets it now. He didn''t expect Mei Li to be so bold as to injure you."


    "So he will deal with this matter and definitely not let it escte."


    Mo Jinsen spoke with certainty, which reassured Rong Dai a lot.


    After lunch, Zong Che sent the two back to the rearranged hotel and also rearranged the security personnel.


    Mo Jinsen was right. Huo Ersi really regretted his rash actions today.


    He didn''t expect Mei Li to be so bold as to directly attack Rong Dai!


    Rong Dai had just returned to the hotel and was about to rest when Huo Ersi''s phone call came in.


    She waited a few seconds before answering. On the phone, Huo Ersi simply apologized and then asked about her amodation.


    Rong Dai didn''t tell him and hung up after a few words.


    Just as Mo Jinsen said, there was no news all afternoon about Mei Li''s broken hand that Rong Dai gave her.


    Meanwhile, Mo Jinsen and Zong Che worked quickly. The appeal was filed that afternoon, and the local media also reported on it, immediately causing a sensation.


    Zong Che also skillfully guided public opinion. Together with the evidence collected over the past few days and the cooperation of the couple, the video content was rified after being released by the media.


    Although the test report came out, it didn''t contain what Rong Dai wanted, which was that there was no evidence.


    The couple, afraid of offending Huo Ersi, took the initiative to exin that the man had one too many drinks and mistakenly entered the wrong hotel room.


    Although this reason was not enough to convince everyone, it at least rified things.


    As for the media outlet Rong Dai was suing, they maintained their arrogant attitude after receiving the notice, and righteously refuted that theirwsuit was a joke and would not even be epted by the court.


    "It''s so infuriating!"


    Song Xuechun had been watching the news. Although she couldn''t understand it, she had Rong Dai, the human trantion machine, by her side.


    The two were watching the news when Rong Dai''s phone rang.


    Mr. Zhan Ji?


    "Rong girl, you''re okay now, right?"


    Before she could speak, Zhan Ji''s concerned voice came through the phone.


    Rong Dai''s eyes darkened. This news had spread all over, so the old man must have seen it too.


    "Don''t worry, Old Master. I''m fine. My assistant is handling it. It''s not a big problem."


    "Rest assured, I''ve already instructed that boy Jinsen. This matter will have results."


    The old master exhorted her and invited her to attend a private exhibition that evening.


    After thinking it over, Rong Dai agreed. She had already told Zong Che how to handle things. The rest depended on Zong Che''s operation.


    Back in China, this incident caused Rong Dai to be a trending topic again.


    The video of her ying polo today was fully exposed, and despite Mn Xiang''s fans trying their best to defend her, they couldn''t withstand the torrent, and Rong Dai was still attacked.

 Chapter 553: Stop Working Together

    <h4>Chapter 553</h4>


    "CEO!"


    Zhang Assistant hurried into Huo Shao Ting''s office early in the morning, cell phone in hand and face ashen.


    Huo Shao Ting had just sat down to look over the meeting agenda when he saw Zhang Assistante in looking like that. He instinctively frowned, "What''s going on?"


    "I''m afraid Huo Ersi has sinister intentions regarding Madam''s situation in Paris." Zhang Assistant said solemnly as he handed over the video on his phone.


    Huo Shao Ting patiently watched the video on the phone. Seeing Mei Li swing her arm as if to hit Rong Dai''s wrist, his eyes became extremely cold and sinister!


    "This manor should be Huo Ersi''s private manor, with decent secrecy, yet such a clear video was taken and went viral on the inte."


    Zhang Assistant spoke heavily. He didn''t expect things to turn out this way with Zong Che handling it.


    Huo Shao Ting''s face turned cold. "Cancel Huo Ersi''s partnerships."


    Zhang Assistant was startled. "But wouldn''t that give Huo Shaoqian a chance?"


    Currently with the Huo family reshuffle, core power was in Huo Shao Ting''s hands, but Huo Second Uncle''s side wasn''tpletely resigned.


    Great generals are easy to kill, foot soldiers hard to eliminate.


    "If Huo Ersi is that stupid, I can send him another big gift. Do you think nobody is eyeing the meat in Huo Ersi''s hands?"


    "Call Arthur. Whatever satisfies Madam can be negotiated."


    Zhang Assistant''s face changed instantly. The CEO wants to cut off half of Huo Ersi''s power!


    But he didn''t dare say anything. Although the video didn''t reveal much,


    Huo Ersi actually daring to so tantly take advantage of Madam meant he was clearly asking for death!


    After Zhang Assistant left, Huo Shao Ting took out his phone and dialed a private number.


    The call quickly connected, and wolfish panting could be heard on the other end, obviously doing physical training.


    "You haven''t called me in 800 years, today''s sun must be rising from the west!"


    Jing Chen''s teasing voice came over the phone.


    Huo Shao Ting stood up and walked to the window overlooking the Huo Group building below, his gaze cold and obscure: "There''s something I only trust you with."


    "I made a wrong decision."


    He rarely spoke in this tone, much less admit his own mistakes?


    Jing Chen was startled for a moment, signaling to the coach to take over while he went to another area to take the call.


    "What happened?"


    "My wife Rong Dai is in Paris now, and has gotten into some trouble, so she can''te back for the time being."


    "There are some people I need you to investigate, only you can do it."


    "I don''t trust anyone else. Also, Huo Ersi''s side seems unhappy that I''m in control and wants to break away."


    "Rong Dai''s situation is dangerous right now, I need you to go over right away."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke very seriously.


    Jing Chen frowned, "How could you have given her Huo Ersi''s number? Isn''t that just handing a knife to him? I really... warned you for nothing!"


    He was a little annoyed, but also knew the gravity of the situation.


    "Who do I need to investigate? Send me the info and I''ll book a flight right away!"


    Annoyed as he was, reason still prevailed.


    "Sent it to your email. Go find Ji Zheng, he''s also going to Paris."


    Huo Shao Ting spoke heavily, before hanging up.


    The timing of this video was too coincidental.


    If not for this video, he might have ignored Rong Dai''s urging and directly went to Paris himself.


    But with the video leaked, he was even less able to go.


    After hanging up with Jing Chen, he immediately called Rong Dai.


    "Shao Ting."


    When she answered his call, Rong Dai behavedpletely normally.


    She didn''t want him to worry about what happened with Huo Ersi and that morning at the racetrack.

 Chapter 554: Duke House Number

    <h4>Chapter 554</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting did not conceal anything and told her some important information.


    "It would be more dangerous if I came over."


    His voice was full of worry. It was his neglect of this issue andck of thorough consideration.


    How could Lady Huo, who had endured his domination for so many years, be willing to be restrained by him again?


    Rong Dai did not expect things to be soplicated either. She asked about the domestic situation and learned that when the horse farm video was leaked, she could not help frowning.


    At that time there were only a few people at the horse farm. If someone wanted to take clear videos, they must have been among the crowd.


    "I see, don''t worry."


    She responded and the husband and wife hung up the phone.


    After hanging up the phone, Rong Dai maintained a state of contemtion for several minutes until Song Xuechun called her back to her senses.


    "What''s the matter with you? You look absent-minded."


    Song Xuechun put down her snacks and asked her.


    Rong Dai: "It''s nothing. We should pack up and go to Mr. Zhan Ji''s ce soon."


    Things were chaotic and she originally thought it was just the new and old grudges between her and Xin Ziqing. She didn''t expect these things to get involved too.


    Since Rong Dai was unwilling to talk about it, Song Xuechun did not ask further.


    After tidying up, the two went to Mr. Zhan Ji''s residence.


    "I want to see someone."


    At this time, Xin Ziqing, who was inexplicably charged with a crime and arrested into the detention center, had a sallowplexion and eyes full of anger that could devour someone!


    Today was the third day she was locked up. She could notmunicate with these people at all as she did not speak thenguage, and Lan Qian had note to visit her either.


    This made Xin Ziqing a little angry and panicked.


    The police officer found a trantor toe and finally figured out what she meant.


    Xin Ziqing looked bad. She dialed Lan Qian''s number, but no one answered.


    The trantor stood by her sidemunicating with the police officer next to her, while ncing at the number Xin Ziqing had dialed.


    No one answered Lan Qian''s phone. After some hesitation, she dialed another number.


    Someone answered after the phone rang three times. Hearing the voice on the phone, Xin Ziqing finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "I want to get out of here immediately! I want to leave this damn ce!"


    Xin Ziqing almost roared!


    She was fine calcting against Rong Dai but was inexplicably used of soliciting customers on the street for illegal prostitution. She was arrested without a second word.


    And there was no sign of Lan Qian either!


    The phone said nothing to her but hung up after an unknown exchange, which displeased Xin Ziqing!


    Half an hour after Xin Ziqing''s call, two localwyers came to the police station intending to bail her out first, but they were refused.


    The trantor watched from afar without saying anything.


    The twowyers finally showed some kind of credentials and Xin Ziqing was released on bail smoothly an hourter.


    The trantor immediately called Mo Jinsen and sent thest recorded number to him.


    When Mo Jinsen saw this number, he couldn''t help frowning and asked Zong Che, "Did Lady Huo offend other figures in France too?"


    Zong Che had been watching the news that afternoon. Hearing Mo Jinsen''s question, he immediately shook his head: "Ms. Rong has never been abroad. Even if she were to offend someone, it would be Mr. Huo."


    "I remember this number. It��s the number of Duke Bertelen��s Mansion. Ordinary people can''t get it."


    "Although the Bertelen family is no longer active, they still have influence. How could the person detained in the detention center have the phone number of the Duke''s Mansion?"


    "And those nobles look down on Orientals the most. It is even less possible for them to sendwyers to bail someone out."


    Mo Jinsen was very puzzled while also a little worried.

 Chapter 555: Deja Vu

    <h4>Chapter 555</h4>


    Zong Che also felt very puzzled, but he also had no way to exin anything.


    Mo Jinsen didn''t say much, and asked someone to follow him to investigate.


    Zong Che sent a message to Rong Dai and briefly told her what had happened.


    Rong Dai and Song Xuechun had just arrived at the private exhibition hall with Zhan Ji when they received Zong Che''s message. Her eyes sharpened a lot.


    The Bertelen aristocrat?


    This surprised her a bit. If Xin Ziqing really got involved with such an aristocrat, with this family''s influence, she might not even get through the door for the selection of The Wing of Fashion that day.


    After all, a strong dragon can''t suppress a local snake. Although they hadplete procedures, what about it?


    But this result gave her some confidence. At least it wasn''t all for nothing.


    She was also more certain that the other party must know Xin Ziqing''s identity. Otherwise, why would they let her travel all the way to China just to be a design director?


    She didn''t believe that. Xin Ziqing couldn''t even design, and she herself was not suitable for struggling in the workce.


    That meant there must be someone perhaps more powerful than the Bertelen family behind Xin Ziqing, at least someone who could get the Duke Residence to bail her out.


    After quickly sending Zong Che a series of messages, she muted her phone and hurried to catch up with Zhan Ji and Song Xuechun.


    The curator of the private exhibition hall was a mixed-race, half Chinese. He spoke much more fluent Chinese.


    When he saw Zhan Ji appear, he immediately came up to greet them.


    Zhan Ji was in a very good mood, smiling, and introduced Rong Dai to the curator.


    The circle was so small. Although the problem with Huo Ersi��s collection was not reported, people in the circle who should know already knew.


    Plus Zhan Ji''s rendering, Rong Dai''s name had also spread in their circle.


    "I have long admired Ms. Rong. This batch of collections was bought by overseas Chinese capitalists and donated back to the mothend."


    The curator was very enthusiastic and immediately took the three to see the collections.


    The curator had just enthusiastically introduced them for a few minutes when his assistant called him away. A few minutester, he brought two other people over.


    One was a Chinese woman and the other was a local.


    When Rong Dai felt gazes falling on her, she looked up.


    "Hello, my name is An Feiran."


    The woman was elegant and graceful, with an innate gentleness, just like a youngdy from a big family.


    Rong Dai was stunned for a moment, looking at the woman walking up to her and holding out her hand. Her heart trembled inexplicably, with a feeling that was hard to describe.


    This feeling... was as if she had known this person for a very long time.


    "My name is Rong Dai."


    Out of courtesy, she also extended her hand with a polite smile on her pretty face.


    An Feiran smiled warmly. She naturally exuded an affinity.


    Rong Dai''s mind that had been disturbed was able to calm down. But she saw An Feiran talk knowledgeably about these collections, citing academic theories urately one after another.


    She had to suppress the absurd thoughts in her mind.


    It was already a miracle that she and Xin Ziqing coulde here. Even experts like Huang could not exin this phenomenon.


    If there were really other reincarnators, it would be too absurd, which would vite naturalws.


    "Miss Rong seems a little absent-minded. Do you have something on your mind? Or are you troubled by recent events?"


    An Feiran''s soft and gentle voice pulled Rong Dai''s thoughts back immediately.


    "Drinking something sweet improves your mood."


    "This is my own concoction, very healthy."


    An Feiran had a smile on her face, she was so gentle and friendly as she handed Rong Dai a cup of milk tea.

 Chapter 556: Her Eldest Sister

    <h4>Chapter 556</h4>


    "Thank you."


    Rong Dai took the thermal sk from her and could smell the rich aroma of milk tea as soon as she unscrewed the cap.


    The fragrance of this milk tea...


    Her whole body suddenly tensed up, and a sh of shock passed through her eyes!


    "What''s wrong? Don''t worry, this milk tea is very healthy and won''t cause any trouble for your figure."


    An Feiran had a smile on her face, and even Rong Dai''s subtle changes in expression did not escape her eyes.


    Rong Dai came back to her senses and quickly exined with a smile: "It''s nothing. It''s just that the taste of this milk tea is very simr to one made by someone I knew before."


    Her elder sister used to often make milk tea and other snacks for her too, because she liked sweets.


    This taste... it really is too alike.


    But is it really possible?


    She didn''t dare get her hopes up. Shaoteng had said the probability of something like this was very low.


    "Is that so? I just followed the recipe to make it. If you like it, I can teach it to you."


    "It''s rare toe acrosspatriots who you can talk to properly in this foreignnd."


    An Feiran''s smile was warm, and her voice was as soft as cotton in the sunlight, making people feel asfortable as a spring breeze.


    Rong Dai nodded and took a sip of the milk tea.


    The taste that spread through her taste buds made the look in her eyes slightly excited, but when she saw An Feiran before her and thought of the other party''s words and deeds...


    Although equally gentle and graceful, there was still some difference from her elder sister.


    "The milk tea tastes great."


    She raised her eyes to look at An Feiran. If it was her elder sister, she should be able to recognize her right? After all, she had leaked out so much information.


    "That''s good if you like it."


    An Feiran did not miss the strangeness in her eyes, but did not say anything.


    "Miss Rong, are you studying archaeology too? Few girls these days are interested in it."


    An Feiran changed the topic as she looked towards the artifacts.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly and shook her head: "I just stumbled into this by chance. I only know a little about it and would definitely embarrass myself in front of professionals like you."


    An Feiran did not say much more. The two of them chatted about many things while appraising the artifacts.


    "Miss An, may I be so bold as to ask for a way to contact you?"


    "You... remind me a lot of someone I once knew, I like you very much."


    After they finished appraising the artifacts, it was about time to leave the museum. Rong Dai could not help but ask An Feiran for her contact information.


    An Feiran smiled and nodded: "Why ever not? I like Miss Rong very much too."


    Then she gave Rong Dai her personal phone number.


    "Dai''er, do you like Miss An very much? I saw you two chatting very happily."


    On the way back, Song Xuechun could not help asking her.


    Rong Dai smiled lightly, her hand stroking the thermal sk that An Feiran had put the milk tea in. "She reminds me a lot of an acquaintance from before, so I chatted with her more."


    Song Xuechun did not doubt her and nodded.


    After Mr. Zhan Ji returned to his residence, he sent a driver to take them back.


    Back at the hotel, Rong Dai asked Zong Che about the progress of their work.


    "Xuechun, would you like milk tea? Let''s order two."


    After hanging up the phone, she saw the thermal sk on the table. The taste of the milk tea was like it had a memory, climbing up her taste buds once more.


    "Dai''er, aren''t you afraid of gaining weight?"


    Song Xuechun was removing her makeup and could not help but be stunned for a moment when she heard this.


    "I feel like having something sweet today."


    Rong Dai exined softly while she had already called room service on the phone set to order two milk teas and desserts.


    The two milk teas and desserts were delivered up. Song Xuechun did not notice Rong Dai''s abnormality and happily enjoyed the treats.


    As for Rong Dai, she concentrated on drinking the milk tea, but as soon as it entered her mouth, she frowned slightly.


    It was too different from what her elder sister and An Feiran made, not the same taste at all.

 Chapter 557: Not to move a hair.

    <h4>Chapter 557</h4>


    ��You��re not drinking anymore?��


    Song Xuechun had just stuffed a mouthful of dessert when she saw Rong Dai drink only a sip of her milk tea before putting it down without any intention of drinking more. She couldn''t help feeling puzzled.


    Rong Dai shook her head: ��It doesn��t taste right.��


    Perhaps she was being too stubborn.


    Even if An Feiran was really her elder sister, it didn��t necessarily mean she could remember things from her previous life like herself.


    Thinking of her elder sister''s fate in her previous life, her eyes dimmed slightly.


    Not remembering might be better. Hopefully her nsman will have a peaceful and happy next life.


    ��Dai��er! Quick, look at the news!��


    Song Xuechun choked on a mouthful of milk tea. She was just browsing today''s Paris news on the forum, using Huo Mei Shu��s ount since she didn��t frequent forums as much as Huo Mei Shu.


    Seeing the news above, she was extremely excited and immediately called Rong Dai over to see!


    At that moment, far away in an ancient castle in Paris, An Feiran had shed her gentle and beautiful demeanor at the exhibition hall. Her exquisite face was now tinged with a hint of coldness.


    She had changed into a white suit, stepping on high heels, her lush ck hair tied into a simple ponytail. Her makeup was meticulous yet cold.


    "So Mayor, you really want to make a big fuss out of this?"


    She stared at the plump man sitting in front of her. This was none other than Mei Li��s father, as well as the Mayor of Paris.


    "Miss An, my daughter''s hand was broken by someone, why can''t I punish them?"


    "You think I care about Horlse''s petty tricks?"


    "My daughter is such an outstanding person, she would never take the initiative to harm others!"


    "That Oriental woman is too vicious. If I tolerate this, I will be ridiculed by my colleagues."


    The Mayor was very tough. Thinking of his beloved daughter pained his heart.


    "Miss An is an esteemed guest, but I am the Mayor of Paris. You need to be clear who is in charge here."


    "I absolutely cannot let my daughter be bullied by an Oriental!"


    "Especially since this person is from Huaxia!"


    "TK suffered huge losses this time, precisely because of this woman. I will not let her off!"


    "I don''t believe the Hua Country government would jeopardize rtions between our two countries for her sake!"


    An Feiran listened to him quietly, her gaze towards him now chilled over.


    "The Hua Country government needs to consider the big picture. Indeed, it cannot provoke conflicts between our two countries over this."


    "But I can."


    The corners of her lips curved up slightly, but her eyes were frighteningly icy.


    An Feiran stared at him. In this second life, she would never allow anyone to bully her younger sister again!


    They had spent so many years searching for her. How could they tolerate anyone bullying her again?


    In her previous life she was powerless to change anything, bound by imperial power.


    But this life was different. She would never let anyone torment her loved ones again, not even a single hair could be harmed!


    "If I remember correctly, Mayor, your term is almost up. You want to run for reelection next term as well?"


    An Feiran asked lightly, gaze tinged with mockery.


    Look down on the people of Huaxia? Where was his sense of superiority from?


    The Mayor''s expression changed drastically at her words: "Are you threatening me?"


    An Feiranughed lightly and shook her head: "No threat, I''m just stating an objective fact."


    "With what your daughter has done, don''t you think you''ve offended enough people in these circles already?"


    "Since I dare say this, it means I have absolute confidence."


    "If you touch Dai''er, I will make you pay a thousand times over."


    "I''m very unhappy with Mei Li''s actions. If I had been there today, I would have made sure your daughter could never take care of herself again."


    "Mayor, if you don''t believe me you can try provoking me."


    An Feiran spoke gently, but her words exuded a chilling deterrence!

 Chapter 558: Found Our Debs.

    <h4>Chapter 558</h4>


    The mayor''s face was ugly. Although An family was not French, he did not dare to offend An family''s power.


    He also believed that An Feiran could do what she said.


    "Huo Ersi has already incurred President Huo''s displeasure for this. Mr. Mayor, haven''t you noticed anything wrong with Paris today?"


    "All of Huo Ersi''s goods were intercepted, yet Mr. Arthur was able to take over."


    "Why was the court willing to ept this appeal? Are there few nobles that Bameng Media has offended?"


    "If someone wants him dead, it will be difficult for him to survive. This is public outrage."


    "I remind Mayor that he should not give up the watermelon for the sesame seeds and do some self-righteous things."


    "The world pattern has long changed. It is not up to you and me, but up to the people."


    She looked at the mayor coldly, her voice ethereal, but with an indescribable majesty.


    "Then if I don''t investigate, can you guarantee my reelection?"


    The mayor looked at her with suspicion in his eyes.


    An Feiran smiled and nced at the door behind him, "Come in."


    Arthur walked in with a neat suit.


    "You... actually work for her?"


    Seeing Arthur, the mayor was very surprised.


    Arthur was tall and handsome, but his eyes were like a wolf, frightening people.


    "Mr. Mayor really likes to joke. How can I qualify to work for Miss An?"


    "It''s just that Miss An is willing to give me this opportunity."


    After speaking, he looked at An Feiran with a hint of appreciation and strangeness in his deep eyes.


    Such an outstanding woman has be very rare.


    "But can you fight Huo Ersi?"


    The mayor was very doubtful.


    An Feiran looked at him without saying a word. Arthur smiled handsomely, "On this matter, rather than doubting Miss An, Mayor might as well think about whether Huo Ersi would still agree to let you sit in that chair?"


    Arthur''s words silenced him. The room was quiet for about half a minute before the mayor looked at them both and said, "I understand this matter now."


    An Feiran watched him leave without saying anything else.


    Of course Huo Ersi would no longer be willing to let him continue sitting in that chair because of the Horse farm incident, he had already offended Huo Shao Ting.


    With Arthur eyeing covetously on one side and Huo Ersi on the other, Huo Ersi would not risk his career.


    "Miss An, it''s still early. I have a few bottles of fine vintage wine. Would you honor me with your presence?"


    Compared to Huo Ersi, Arthur''s Chinese was more authentic.


    An Feiran nced at him, her cold and arrogant face unchanged, "Mr. Arthur, I personally don''t like socializing and I don''t have the habit of drinking."


    She knew what ideas Arthur had in mind.


    Arthur was not angry at being rejected. He smiled gentlemanly, "Then I''ll go back first. I asked someone to deliver it to Miss An. Fine wine doesn''t have to be drunk. Just smelling it is also a kind of enjoyment."


    An Feiran did not speak. The butler of the castle came to lead Arthur away.


    After the person left, An Feiran returned to the bedroom, took afortable bath, and made a call.


    "Uncle, I found our little Dai."


    An Feiran looked at the scenery outside the castle, with a soft andplicated expression in her eyes.


    Her face was no longer as cold as before, but was reced by joy and excitement.


    On the other end of the phone was An family''s youngest son, An Linyao.


    When An Linyao heard her say this, his breath stagnated for a moment, both excited and nervous, "Then you didn''t recognize her?"


    An Feiran said, "No, I was afraid of scaring her."


    "And it''s not necessarily a good thing for us to recognize her now."


    "I want to go to China. There are some things I need to investigate."


    "If Dai is living happily, then just let it be and we won''t disturb her life. Calm is the best."

 Chapter 559: Let no one Bully Her.

    <h4>Chapter 559</h4>


    "No, you''ll have trouble if you go to Huaxia," An Linyao immediately refused. "I''ll figure something out for this."


    An Feiran leaned on the chair, her knuckles turning white from gripping it slightly too hard: "I have to go there myself to confirm before I can feel at ease."


    "She''s our little princess, I won''t allow anyone to bully her!"


    "Don''t worry about me, I''ll take care of it."


    Her tone was very firm, not allowing An Linyao to refuse.


    In the past three years, An Linyao had also gotten to know his sister from his previous life again. Her personality had already changed.


    Having gone through the tragic lessons of her previous life, her originally weak and gentle personality had also changed.


    But he was very happy about this change. Endlessly giving in would only lead them into an abyss.


    "Then be careful. I''ll take care of everything else."


    This was all An Linyao could advise her.


    "I know."


    An Feiran nodded. After that, the siblings hung up the phone.


    After hanging up the phone, An Feiran looked at the pitch ck night sky, feeling reassured with her heart settled.


    It had been three years since she came to this world.


    She had thought that after dying in her previous life, that was it. She didn''t expect to have the chance to live again, and meet her rtives from her previous life again.


    It was a pity that some rtives could no longer be seen again, but even so, she was satisfied.


    Her little Dai was still alive, her brother''s current identity was her little uncle. As long as they could live safely, that was good.


    Rong Dai didn''t know that her fantasies had alreadye true. After listening to Zong Che''s report, she had a brief video call with Huo Shao Ting before going to sleep.


    That night, she dreamed of her older sister, but her sister''s ending wasn''t good...


    When Rong Dai woke up, she realized her whole body was drenched in cold sweat from the shock.


    In another room, Song Xuechun was sleeping soundly. Seeing the fish-belly white of the horizon, she also had no more desire to sleep. She simply got up and washed up.


    After working out at the gym for half an hour, she came back to wash up again. Song Xuechun still hadn''t woken up.


    After washing up, she called for breakfast to be delivered to the room. She opened up herptop to study and catch up on coursework she had fallen behind on.


    It wasn''t until 9 o''clock that Song Xuechun groggily got up. By then, Rong Dai had alreadypleted a day''s worth of studying.


    Song Xuechun had just finished washing up when Zong Che happened to ring the doorbell.


    Rong Dai opened the door to let him in. Seeing that his expression was slightly more rxed, she asked, "Are there still things that can make you happy now?"


    A smile appeared on Zong Che''s handsome face as he took out an invitation card and handed it to her, "Today is the fourth day. Did you forget that today is the day Fashion Wings announces the results?"


    "Dai''er''s design was selected!?"


    Song Xuechun was even more excited than Rong Dai. She immediately put down her food and shuffled over to take a look.


    "The final results will be announced at the event. Only designers who receive an invitation card are eligible to attend the g where the results are announced."


    "It''s that high ss? Then won''t some of the designers beughed to death?"


    Song Xuechun was excited. Although she couldn''t understand the French on the invitation card, Rong Dai''s name was written in Chinese, which she recognized.


    Zong Che said, "Ji Zheng will probably arrive around noon. Things are going very smoothly on the courtroom side."


    "I don''t know if it''s from doing too many malicious things for self interest, but now that we''ve stepped out, Barmy Media is being jointly sued by some of the nobility in Paris."


    "ck materials are being released bit by bit. I wonder if they''ll plead guilty to expose whoever is behind the scenes."


    Listening to his report, Rong Dai felt much more at ease. At the very least, everything was moving in the direction they wanted.


    "It doesn''t matter, someone will crack eventually."


    Xin Ziqing hade out at just the right time now. She knew that feeling of crisis approaching all too clearly.

 Chapter 560: Works Are Brushed

    <h4>Chapter 560</h4>


    "On what grounds are they deleting the works?!"


    Xin Ziqing had just gotten out of the detention center yesterday, but when she got out she learned about all the arrangements Rong Dai had made.


    She actually had the guts to sue overseas!


    And now she had given her another bolt from the blue by having Brocade Embroidery Workshop''spetition entry deleted.


    "I''m not clear on that either, it was the organizer''s idea."


    Lan Qian also felt very annoyed. Xin Ziqing was inexplicably arrested, and she herself had been held captive at home for three days, with meals and water delivered at fixed times every day.


    If Xin Ziqing hadn''t gotten out yesterday, she wouldn''t have known how long she would be imprisoned.


    "What about Delsen? Didn''t he say he could handle things?"


    Xin Ziqing was furious inside, extremely irritated!


    A perfectly good n had been caughtpletely off guard, not to mention being mysteriously arrested and thrown into jail!


    Lan Qian shook her head: "He has already been kicked out by the organizers, TK''s reputation is terrible now."


    "The TK Building has been confiscated by the bank, and it''s also deep in debt. Delsen was one of the key executives, so he was taken away to assist in the investigation."


    She had only acted on Xin Ziqing''s arrangements, but she hadn''t expected things to turn out like this today.


    "The most urgent thing now is not the result of The Wing of Fashion, the Bameng Media side is the most dangerous."


    "If they expose us, it would be another blow to Brocade Embroidery Workshop. Then you would be useless there, and it would be even harder to deal with Rong Dai."


    "It doesn''t matter that Brocade Embroidery Workshop didn''t win any awards, her Magnolia Fragrance might not necessarily win either."


    Lan Qian was a little panicked. After all, it was her first time arranging these things, and she hadn''t expected events to spiral out of her control.


    Xin Ziqing frowned. This was indeed very important.


    "Isn''t Duke Residence there? Why wouldn''t the Bertelen side be willing to help?"


    Lan Qian shook her head: "You used the Professor''s name this time. It was already a lot for them to lend a hand once."


    "These Western aristocrats have always looked down on others. Asking them for help again unless the Professor calls them personally."


    "Then call the Professor and ask him. If I fail here, do you think we can still catch Rong Dai?"


    Xin Ziqing asked her, eyes brimming with thick hatred!


    She hadn''t expected to underestimate that piece of trash! She actually turned the tables on her!


    Lan Qian looked at her deeply for a moment, hesitating: "Alright, I''ll try, but the Professor might not necessarily agree."


    "Let me talk to the Professor!"


    She must make that piece of trash Rong Dai grovel before her in death!


    Lan Qian didn''t say much more, she dialed an overseas call. After a few rings, an aged, slightly hoarse voice came through.


    "Professor."


    Lan Qian''s expression immediately became respectful.


    "Didn''t I tell you not to bother me when I''m doing experiments if it''s not important?"


    "How are things with Yang Wanwan? Are her conditions stable after taking the medicine? I re-formted the recipe and made another batch, already shipped back to China."


    The professor''s voice was rough and low, with no emotion between his words, only icy coldness.


    Lan Qian quickly and earnestly answered each point. "Professor, there is something that might need you to speak up."


    "Let me talk to the Professor!"


    Xin Ziqing next to her was impatient with Lan Qian''s long-winded report. Of course she couldn''t let the Bameng Media side expose what she had done.


    She also regretted a little having Lan Qian do such things, leaving such a huge handle to the other party.


    Lan Qian didn''t say much, and handed her the phone.


    "Professor, this is Xin Ziqing."


    She spoke up and told him about Rong Dai''s matters, her tone very firm: "I can now confirm 100% that this person is that piece of trash you all have been looking for."


    "If the Professor cooperates with me this time, we will definitely take her down!"

 Chapter 561: A Semi-Successful Failure

    <h4>Chapter 561</h4>


    "If you can''t handle it, I''ll cut off your potion supply. You''re just a half-sessful failure." Professor''s hoarse voice was a little cold.


    To him, this matter was something he was very sure of, otherwise he would not have invested in such research in his life.


    Since he was able to experiment Xin Ziqing out, then as long as the dataparison is sessful, others will not be a problem.


    If Xin Ziqing was not still useful now, he would not spend time and effort on a failed product.


    "I have other things to do right now, don''t catch people back for the time being, just keep an eye on her."


    The professormanded.


    Although Xin Ziqing was unhappy in her heart, in her previous life it was her whomanded and ordered those lowly servants to do things.


    Now that she hase to this ghost ce, she has to listen to a smelly old man!


    But she had no choice, she had to go back to Shangyuan! So she had to listen to this smelly old man.


    This ghost ce was simply unlivable!


    "I will, Professor."


    She answered softly.


    "I''ll call Bertelen over there and tell him specifically how to help you guys, go talk to him yourself."


    The professor''s cold voice came, not caring if Xin Ziqing had anything else to say before hanging up.


    Listening to the busy tone on the phone, Xin Ziqing felt particrly annoyed!


    "What did the professor say?"


    Seeing her look bad, Lan Qian asked.


    "The professor will notify them, let''s wait."


    Xin Ziqing gave her phone back to her, relieved in her heart.


    Lan Qian didn''t ask her again, and the two waited in the hotel for a call from Duke Bertelen''s Mansion.


    After half an hour, a phone call finally came in.


    The call was naturally from Duke Bertelen''s Mansion to meet the two.


    As soon as the two left the hotel to go to the Duke''s mansion, the message reached Rong Dai''s ears.


    "If Bertelen gets involved, Bameng Media may really not speak up."


    Mo Jinsen exined with a frown. The matter seemed simple, but it involved local aristocrats.


    Although France no longer had a monarchy, the former nobility was still retained, and these nobles had intricate power structures.


    Especially Duke Bertelen''s Mansion, offending them would make things really hard to say.


    Rong Dai took a sip of red tea while looking at the history of Duke Bertelen''s Mansion.


    The power of this family was indeed huge, and ordinary people would not easily offend them.


    But she used to be an aristocrat too, so even if they were not the same kind of people, she still understood the ways of the nobility more or less.


    "Bertelen will send someone to meet me and guarantee it with his reputation, asking me to reconcile with Xin Ziqing."


    "In the end, the only one who can be sacrificed is Bameng Media, because they caused this incident."


    "Bameng Media is now a street rat. Although Bertelen is upper ss among the nobles, a single tree is hard to support."


    "It''s better to offend me than to offend these nobles."


    Rong Dai said lightly.


    "I''m just very curious. ording to Bertelen''s respectable family status, they shouldn''t have offered to help, right?"


    This made her even more certain that the Bertelen family had intervened because of the person behind Xin Ziqing.


    Xin Ziqing''s information came from Country Y, so she had no connection with France.


    "Big Brother Ji!"


    As she and Mo Jinsen were analyzing these things, she heard Song Xuechun''s voice.


    She saw Ji Zheng and Jing Chen following behind Zong Che. The spacious living room suddenly seemed a little crowded.


    Ji Zheng nodded, looked at Rong Dai, then fell on Mo Jinsen: "How is the progress of things?"


    "There is no hurry with things, we can still control the current situation."


    "You just arrived, go freshen up and eat something first, your rooms have been booked."


    Rong Dai said. Now that things had reached this point, she was no longer so eager to end them. She wanted to see Xin Ziqing''s reaction.

 Chapter 562: I Know How to Fight Back

    <h4>Chapter 562</h4>


    Ji Zheng and Jing Chen did not force each other, and the two of them went downstairs to wash up and tidy up afterwards. Even the jetg did not fall down and started to work.


    Ji Zheng and Mo Jinsen were ssmates, so there was no problem withmunication between the two people''s work.


    Because Rong Dai still had to go to attend the announcement of the results of The Wing of Fashion at night, she did not talk much with Ji Zheng before going to prepare.


    "Did Shao Ting say you are his best buddy?"


    She was putting on makeup, and seeing Jing Chen guarding by her side like a door god, she felt at ease inexplicably.


    This was Shao Ting''s arrangement. Although she had only stayed in France for a few days, the security personnel around her had changed two batches, and now only Jing Chen was left.


    Jing Chen nced at her, even if he was a tough guy, he was amazed when he saw Rong Dai.


    "Yes."


    It was just that their family moved awayter.


    ��Then I will have to work hard. Shao Ting said there will be danger."


    "I will do my duty."


    After Jing Chen finished speaking, he retracted his gaze. Rong Dai did not speak either.


    After finishing her makeup, she changed into an evening dress, still full of ancient Chinese charm.


    The main colors were light blue and light pink, embroidered with green bamboos and fairy cranes. The slender waist was tied with a jadestep slightly darker than the skirt color, just like a fairy who walked out of the painting.


    Song Xuechun couldn''t help but exim at the side: "Dai''er, it''s a pity you don''t be a model!"


    Rong Dai smiled faintly without answering. In her hand she held a retro handbag with embroidery in the same color scheme. The high-heeled shoes she wore were also embroidered.


    Jing Chen and Zong Che escorted the two women along the way to the venue of The Wing of Fashion.


    Although The Wing of Fashion was not a majorpetition system, those in the circle knew about thispetition.


    Thepetition was held in a castle at that time. No news media were present to ensure the design drawings of each designer.


    But it was different today. Major media had received invitations from The Wing of Fashion, so today''s venue was very formal.


    There was a red carpetid at the hotel entrance, with media reporters on both sides.


    As soon as Rong Dai got off, almost all the lenses on the spot were aimed at her. Many reporters even squeezed forward, wanting to ask questions.


    Seeing that the situation was a bit out of control, the security personnel on the spot immediately came forward to protect Rong Dai and walked quickly across the red carpet into the venue.


    "It really scared me to death! I didn''t expect foreign media to be so crazy too!"


    Song Xuechun was so frightened that her face turned pale. Only after entering the venue did she breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Didn''t they say that the Brocade Embroidery Workshop couldn''te?"


    The venue was set up very formally. Each position was marked with the name of the invited person.


    Seeing the names of Xin Ziqing and Lan Qian next to them, Song Xuechun couldn''t help frowning.


    Rong Dai took a light look at the name. This was probably the Bertelen Family speaking out.


    It can be seen that the power of the Bertelen Family is not weak. In just a few hours, they can make the organizers of The Wing of Fashion add their names.


    People entered the venue one after another. In order to remain dignified, Song Xuechun tried hard not to ask questions.


    When most of the guests had arrived at the venue, Rong Dai finally saw Xin Ziqing.


    Xin Ziqing wore a low-cut purple floor-length dress with a tall and slender figure, but the purple matched with this face was somewhat discoordinating.


    As soon as she came in, her gaze collided with Rong Dai''s!


    The enemies red fiercely when they met!


    Rong Dai''s face was very calm. She sat gracefully, waiting for Xin Ziqing to sit next to her.


    "You''re good to know how to fight back."


    After Xin Ziqing sat down, she lowered her voice and said coldly with a sneer.


    She didn''t expect this bitch to be capable and was able to scheme against her!


    "I have to thank those lessons I''ve learned. It doesn''t seem like you suffered much in the detention center."


    "But good stuff is always saved forst."


    Rong Dai replied coldly to her.

 Chapter 563: The Place to be Replaced

    <h4>Chapter 563</h4>


    "Rong Dai, let''s wait and see!"


    Xin Ziqing said coldly, then looked up at the front of the venue.


    Rong Dai also ignored her. Rather than immediately eliminating Xin Ziqing now, she was more eager to find out who was behind Xin Ziqing.


    From the corner of her eye, she caught a glimpse of the ck mole on Xin Ziqing''s right chest near her armpit.


    What a coincidence about this mole...


    She had seen it on Yang Wanwan''s body before.


    This area was rather discreet. It was only during the national opening ceremony when Yang Wanwan wore an evening gown that she inadvertently caught a glimpse of it.


    Could Xin Ziqing have been reborn in Yang Wanwan''s body?


    Her eyes narrowed. If this was the case...then some things might not be soplicated after all.


    She ignored Xin Ziqing again and listened carefully to the host''s speech on stage.


    The Wing of Fashion was divided into bronze, silver and gold awards.


    There were three bronze awards, two silver awards, and one gold award.


    First, the bronze awards were announced. Rong Dai was surprised that the Bertelen Family''s influence was so substantial that they managed to get the Brocade Embroidery Workshop nominated and won one of the bronze awards!


    When Rong Dai came, she thought it wouldn''t be a big issue even if they didn''t win anything, since Magnolia Fragrance still had a long way to go.


    But she didn''t expect the Brocade Embroidery Workshop to win an award!


    If this was the case, it would put them at a disadvantage when they returned home to handle some matters.


    "Winners prosper, losers perish. No matter how much you''ve learned your lesson, you''re still a hopeless loser."


    When the spotlight shone on Xin Ziqing as she stood up smiling, she quickly whispered this to her.


    Song Xuechun was so angry that she clenched her fists!


    Because she didn''t specifically inquire about which designers did not receive invitations, these designers also did not know that one designer''s work had been giarized by the Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    "Dai''er, do you think our ranking...might have been taken by the Brocade Embroidery Workshop?"


    Seeing Xin Ziqing smiling brilliantly on stage, a scary thought popped into Song Xuechun''s mind.


    Rong Dai secretly sent Zong Che a message on her phone. Xin Ziqing wanted to giarize someone else''s hard work just like this?


    Then she would have to ask if Xin Ziqing agreed or not!


    "Don''t worry, even if she swallows it, it won''t be hers."


    Song Xuechun was puzzled, but the bronze awards had already been handed out. Next were the silver awards.


    "The other silver award goes to...Rong Dai from Magnolia Fragrance!"


    The host suddenly called out Rong Dai''s name.


    Both Song Xuechun and Rong Dai were slightly surprised.


    "Dai''er! Go on up! It''s the silver award! We got the silver award!"


    Song Xuechun reacted first. By the time the spotlight shone on her, Rong Dai finally responded.


    A faint smile appeared on her beautiful face. As she elegantly stood up, she said to Xin Ziqing, whose face was glowing green, "The wheel of fortune turns; it''s too early to be happy now."


    "Bitch!"


    Xin Ziqing clenched her fists and cursed furiously in her heart!


    Looking at the bronze trophy in her hand, she felt a strong sense of ridicule!


    What was the point of this event organized by Shi Ning? Even giarism could only get a bronze award! And she still wanted to be the director?


    There were also some media in the venue. When Rong Dai went on stage to ept her award and slides of her entry were shown on the screen, there was a sound of cameras clicking behind the venue.


    After a simple eptance speech, Rong Dai came down from the stage. Song Xuechun reacted quickly to take a photo and sent it to Huo Mei Shu right away.


    The gold award went to a designer from an international brand. Keeping with the usual style of the Wing of Fashion, the award ceremony was simple and concise.


    However, shortly after the award ceremony ended, designers in the venue immediately raised questions, staring very precisely at their row!

 Chapter 564: By Your Own Admission

    <h4>Chapter 564</h4>


    "I seriously doubt the works from Brocade Embroidery Workshop!"


    As soon as this was said, the scene erupted in an uproar.


    The host''s expression changed instantly, and Xin Ziqing''s expression also changed!


    Although this was just a bronze medal, it was still better than nothing.


    Otherwise, this bitch would be holding a silver medal when she went back. She didn''t even have a decent award, so what could she use to establish a foothold at Brocade Embroidery Workshop?


    No matter what was rted to Rong Dai, she would ruin it!


    She immediately talked to the trantor with a stern expression. The trantor looked troubled but still conveyed her meaning.


    Trantor: "Sir, Brocade Embroidery Workshop is an old brand in China with a good reputation. It cooperated with TK unknowingly."


    "Although TK made mistakes before, TK''s past glory cannot be erased. Brocade Embroidery Workshop being recognized by TK naturally has extraordinary qualities."


    "On the contrary, some domestic brands that just started a few months ago, not even considered infants, have received such awards. Shouldn''t that be more questionable?"


    After the trantor conveyed this, even the designer whose face was livid with anger was stunned for a moment. He held the loudspeaker and couldn''t believe yet doubted Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai quietly listened to Xin Ziqing''s trantion convey the wordspletely. Receiving the angry and doubtful gaze from the man, at that time, she got up and nced lightly at Xin Ziqing.


    She retracted her gaze. The clever Song Xuechun took the microphone from the host and handed it to her.


    She nced at Xin Ziqing. How much did she like this tactic of framing others?


    Didn''t she know that times have changed?


    "Ms. Xin, are you saying that I bribed the organizers?"


    She spoke in French so Xin Ziqing couldn''t understand without the trantor.


    "I didn''t say that. You admitted it yourself. After so many years, Brocade Embroidery Workshop has barely gotten an award."


    "As for you, Magnolia Fragrance is just a nobody. Don''t you feel guilty and ufortable holding this award?"


    Xin Ziqing sneered. Although she didn''t know how Duke Bertelen''s Mansion made the organizers change their minds, she knew the gap between Magnolia Fragrance and Brocade Embroidery Workshop.


    This was the problem Magnolia Fragrance couldn''t ovee.


    Rong Dai looked at her with a hint of mockery and coldness: "Theter surpasses the old-timer, haven''t you heard? Since Brocade Embroidery Workshop is willing to cooperate with a brand like TK that has lost its original aspirations, doesn''t it mean Brocade Embroidery Workshop has long lost its original intentions too?"


    "Why would I feel guilty about this award?"


    "Since this gentleman has doubts, I suggest Ms. Xin, the design director of Brocade Embroidery Workshop, and I design a single product on the spot, still using the theme she designed this time."


    "If we can eliminate this gentleman''s doubts, wouldn''t it prove my innocence with the organizers?"


    She didn''t wait for Xin Ziqing to respond. After all, she wouldn''t understand anyway.


    That designer hesitated for a moment, then agreed to this request with the loudspeaker.


    Seeing is believing, hearing is doubting!


    Seeing Rong Dai propose this solution, the organizers also felt it was good and immediately arranged for staff and photography equipment to be ready and asked the two toe on stage to design on the spot.


    Rong Dai smiled at Xin Ziqing and handed the microphone to Song Xuechun.


    "Ms. Xin, shall we?"


    She smiled brightly at Xin Ziqing, while the other''s expression could only be described as "ugly".


    But Xin Ziqing knew she couldn''t back down on this!


    If she didn''te up, it would seem like she had a guilty conscience!


    This bitch!


    She was betting that she couldn''t design!


    "Ms. Xin, let me help you."


    "Your skirt is so long. If you trip, we really won''t be able to prove our innocence."


    She spoke lightly and cutely, ignoring the murderous look in Xin Ziqing''s eyes.

 Chapter 565: Disease on the Spot

    <h4>Chapter 565</h4>


    Her words were neither big nor small, and there were other trantors present at the scene. Xin Ziqing wished she could strangle her! But she also had to abandon this idea.


    The two went up on stage smoothly. Rong Dai looked at her with a smile and skillfully drafted on the manuscript paper.


    While Lan Qian held the brush with her fingertips trembling slightly.


    She hadn''t held a brush for many, many years. She was once a youngdy from a distinguished family, but her n had declined.


    Later she climbed up to the Emperor and became the Imperial Noble Consort. She had to plot against Rong Dai and be wary of the other concubines in the harem seducing the Emperor.


    As the mother of the Crown Prince, she had to n for her son''s future.


    Where did she have the leisure and time to do such delicate work?


    Besides, there were court painters. These things were just ways for unmarried youngdies to while away their boredom. She didn''t need to do it herself at all.


    "Ms. Xin, you wouldn''t happen to have hand cramps by any chance?"


    Seeing that she hadn''t moved her brush for a long time, Rong Dai "kindly" reminded her.


    Xin Ziqing''s face darkened. This bitch!


    Then she had to grit her teeth and design on the manuscript paper. She thought and thought, and drew a hairpin using the most popr style in Shangyuan at that time.


    Because photography equipment was installed, the two''s creations could be seen clearly on the big screen.


    Rong Dai had a clear concept and crisp lines, and the style was novel enough.


    An armlet with a retro pce ir came out. Next to it were notes on material selection and usage.


    In contrast, Xin Ziqing''s design was not onlyplicated, it waspletely irrelevant to the theme. The only relevant thing was that it had a Huaxia vor.


    After half an hour of drafting, before the organizers could take action and raise doubts, the designer who had spoken up was immediately on fire, pointing at Xin Ziqing and yelling, "She''s cheating!"


    "We''re all designers. I absolutely don''t believe this draft came from her hand! I can get someone to authenticate it!"


    Xin Ziqing was so angry her face turned ck. Seeing Rong Dai standing to the side lookingpletely calm and innocent, in Xin Ziqing''s mind she immediately imagined Rong Dai dying ten thousand horrible deaths under her!


    Lan Qian was anxious below and could only frantically wink at Xin Ziqing!


    Xin Ziqing suddenly understood. Suddenly the brush in her hand fell to the ground with a "snap". Her face went pale and broke out in cold sweat. Her body copsed to the ground all at once.


    The scene was quiet for a second or two before the host reacted. The security personnel with first aid knowledge immediately went forward to help!


    However, Xin Ziqing''s face was exceptionally agonized, and her body kept trembling.


    The scene became a little chaotic. Rong Dai felt a bit speechless. Xin Ziqing was still Xin Ziqing, always using such methods to save the situation.


    This trick never failed in front of the Emperor in her past life, leading her to eat quite a few silent losses.


    She also didn''t know if this trick of hers could make the people at the scene buy it today!


    "Make way! She''s just had a recurrence of an old illness. She''s been very weak these past few days. Please let her through!"


    Lan Qian could speak French. She held up a medicine bottle and swept past Rong Dai calmly.


    Rong Dai''s brows furrowed slightly. This smell was very familiar. Wasn''t it the one she had smelled on Xin Ziqing at the castle that day?


    This smell was unique, like medicine but also a bit like perfume.


    She walked forward two steps and saw that Xin Ziqing on the ground did look terrifying, very twisted, as if having an epileptic seizure.


    This...could not be faked.


    Rong Dai''s eyes darkened slightly as she involuntarily thought of some things.


    She could see Lan Qian spraying the medicine into Xin Ziqing''s mouth, and the fragrance became a bit stronger.


    Wispy, but it quickly dissipated.

 Chapter 566: Invitation from the Duke鈥檚 House

    <h4>Chapter 566</h4>


    The medical staff quickly arrived on the scene. Rong Dai frowned slightly as she watched Xin Ziqing being carried into the ambnce and taken to the hospital.


    Xin Ziqing''s condition did not seem feigned; this was Yang Wanwan''s body.


    During their time at the movie studio, Rong Dai had spent some time with Yang Wanwan and had never witnessed her exhibiting such symptoms.


    Yet Lan Qian appeared quite familiar with Xin Ziqing''s condition. Could it be that Xin Ziqing''s rebirth was not the work of heaven, but rather engineered by human hands?


    At this point, the organizers came forward to exin the reasons behind the selection of their Jinxiu Alley work in a concise and shocking manner.


    After receiving the organizers'' exnation, the designers reluctantly let the matter rest.


    However, the incident had already been reported by the media present, sparking quite a heated discussion within the local circles.


    After the award ceremony, Rong Dai and her entourage returned to their hotel.


    "Mrs. Huo."


    As they entered the hotel lobby, someone approached and blocked their path.


    "Mr. Bertelen has extended an invitation and wishes to speak with Mrs. Huo."


    The man appeared to be in his fifties, dressed as a butler-like figure, apanied by a trantor.


    Although the man spoke in a gentle and humble manner, Rong Dai did not overlook the arrogance that shed in his eyes.


    Rong Dai knew that the Bertelen family would approach her, but she did not expect them to send a mere butler to summon her at night.


    "I apologize, but please inform the gentleman that I am quite fatigued tonight, and it would be inconvenient to disturb him at thiste hour."


    Without waiting for the butler''s response, she brushed past them and entered the elevator.


    "Dai''er, is it really okay to refuse them like this?" Song Xuechun voiced her usual concern as they ascended.


    Rong Dai shook her head. "They did not treat us with proper respect, merely wanting to resolve this matter quickly and let it rest."


    "The Bertelen family is nobility. To summon a guest, they should follow proper protocol, not carelessly send a butler with a hasty invitation."


    "If I had gone tonight, it would have given them the impression that I can be easily manipted."


    Song Xuechun''s expression changed as she realized, "They are looking down on us!"


    Rong Dai smiled faintly, not responding. It was more than just looking down on them; it was outright contempt.


    "Has Mr. Ji not returned yet?" she inquired about Zong Che, while Jing Chen immediately began inspecting her room, leaving no corner unchecked.


    "He should be back soon," Zong Che replied, ncing at his watch. It was already 9 PM local time.


    "I sent him on an errand to meet with Alden and disclose today''s events."


    "If Bameng Media is not foolish, they will understand the consequences."


    Rong Dai''s eyes grew deep as she took a sip of water, recalling the events at the venue. She turned to Zong Che and asked, "How do you think we should utilize the incident at the venue tonight?"


    As someone with a public rtions background, Zong Che understood the implication behind Rong Dai''s question.


    "I will devise a strategy for this. I have been keeping track of the domestic public opinion, and with the incident at the venue, it could divert some attention."


    "Mm, your efforts are appreciated."


    Rong Dai nodded. If she had not been confident in Xin Ziqing''s years of privileged living, the events at the venue would not have unfolded so smoothly.


    Zong Che nodded, and as soon as he left the room, Jing Chen emerged afterpleting his inspection.


    "Keep this under your pillow. It''s a portable stun gun. If you notice anyone approaching you, press this button, and it will temporarily incapacitate them."


    Jing Chen handed them both devices resembling phones and demonstrated their use.


    "I''ll be in the next room. The room is currently secure, but no matter who knocks tonight, you must verify their identity before opening the door."


    "The safety lock must be engaged. If you can''t see the person''s face, immediately notify me. Do not open the door."


    After cautioning them, especially Rong Dai, Jing Chen finally departed.

 Chapter 567: I鈥檓 just Disappointed

    <h4>Chapter 567</h4>


    "This time when we return home, we''ll definitely be able to strike back against that shameless Brocade Embroidery Workshop!"


    "I really don''t know what tricks they used to win the award. Those foreign designers were so bold, daring to raise such objections right on the scene."


    "Dai, didn''t you see how dark Xin Ziqing''s face turned?"


    Song Xuechun hugged the trophy in her arms, looking at it from left to right, unable to take her eyes off it, a look of pure joy on her face.


    Rong Dai looked at the trophy in her hands, and how could she put it? She was a little disappointed.


    She had believed what Shi Ning said, she had believed in The Wing of Fashion.


    But she was still disappointed.


    Although Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s work was not bad, Shi Ning''s modifications were too drastic, disrupting the overall harmony, making it truly impossible for them to win an award.


    But they had won the bronze award in the end, and she knew it had to do with the Bertelen Family.


    After all, once the invitations were sent out, it didn''t take much digging to find out which designers had not been invited.


    And initially, Brocade Embroidery Workshop had not been invited, but they ended up taking the bronze award.


    This was unfair to the other designers, especially the one who had been reced.


    She handed her phone to Song Xuechun: "If she hadn''t learned the truth, how could she have gotten so angry on the scene?"


    Song Xuechun looked at the chat with Zong Che, her eyes widening: "So it was you who asked Brother Zong to do it."


    "This award was supposed to be fair, but it became a stepping stone for those with ulterior motives, undermining its fairness and meaning."


    "If it wasn''t to prevent the situation from escting further, I wouldn''t have had Zong Che take advantage of this today."


    Rong Dai exined in a soft voice.


    "s, apart from time, what in this world is truly fair?"


    Hearing her say this, Song Xuechun suddenly felt that the trophy in her hands had lost some of its vor too, and she sighed, putting it down on the table.


    Rong Dai shook her head, her eyes sparkling: "There will be."


    "It''s gettingte, let''s rest early today. Once this matter has passed, we''ll be able to return home."


    Rong Dai nced at the clock on the wall, it was already ten o''clock.


    Song Xuechun nodded, took the stun baton given by Jing Chen, and left.


    After washing up, Rong Dai leaned against the bed. Just as she was about to message Huo Shao Ting, she received a message from him.


    She initiated a video call, and Huo Shao Ting answered, still in his office.


    "Mrs. Huo won the silver award, yet she doesn''t seem too happy?"


    Seeing her unhappy expression, Huo Shao Ting put down his pen and had a serious video chat with her.


    Rong Dai let out a lightugh, looking at him with a serious gaze: "Shao Ting, I''m a little disappointed."


    "Initially, I had full confidence and anticipation for thispetition. I''m not saying Brocade Embroidery Workshop has no ability topete."


    "It''s just that I know Xin Ziqing''s character well. Those designs weren''t hers, they were done by Shi Ning."


    "Even Shi Yue criticized Shi Ning''s work forcking polish. With so many big names gathered here, for such a work to be selected for the bronze award..."


    "I''m just disappointed. Thispetition was supposed to be fair."


    Rong Dai rambled on about her thoughts. She felt no joy over the fact that they had won an award.


    "But I know your capabilities. You deserve this award."


    "You can live up to this award, because you are talented enough, so there''s no need to be affected by those people."


    Huo Shao Ting listened quietly as she finished speaking, his tone extremely affirmative.


    Rong Dai nodded, then told him about An Feiran in detail.


    "Shao Ting, I really wish she was my elder sister, but I''m also a little afraid."


    Just thinking about An Feiran made her mind fill with the image of her elder sister, and her tragic demise in the previous life.

 Chapter 568: Artificial Rebirth

    <h4>Chapter 568</h4>


    The past was nothing but a nightmare for her, her tribesmen suffering because of her.


    The Emperor, in order to avoid turmoil in the court caused by the Rong family, did not strip her of her noble position, but said that if she willingly moved to the Cold Pce, he would spare the lives of the Rong family.


    That was the Emperor''s condition.


    She believed him.


    She had to believe, for the lives of the Rong family were in his hands.


    True to his word, the Emperor allowed her to move to the Cold Pce in silence, even as her tribesmen cursed her, the pcedies mocked her, and the officials scorned her.


    They scolded her for being a coward who clung to life, but after learning of the Emperor''s and the Noble Consort''s affair, she knew the Emperor was a ruthless man.


    Had she not done so and instead spread the word of her relocation to the Cold Pce, the Rong family would have met their demise even sooner.


    She never offered a single word of exnation, hoping only to atone for her sins and give the Rong family a chance to survive.


    When she died, the Rong family''s glory was gone, but at least most of her tribesmen had survived.


    Though life at the border was difficult, it was better than nothing.


    But she never imagined that the Emperor would go back on his word, with the Noble Consort now dominating the harem, still refusing to spare the Rong family!


    Upon learning of Xin Ziqing''s identity, she wished she could drag her down to hell with her, to avenge her Rong tribesmen who died!


    But she restrained herself, determined to make Xin Ziqing repay a thousand times over!


    Death was an easy escape.


    Huo Shao Ting watched as her expression changed, knowing she was recalling events from her past life.


    Everyone scorned her, but no one understood her anguish.


    "If she really is your elder sister, she would have recognized you."


    "For now, don''t think about it. Just rest well."


    Huo Shao Ting gently advised her.


    If he could, he would willingly bear the pain from her memories.


    Rong Dai pulled her mind back, suppressing the hatred surging in her heart.


    "Shao Ting, do you still remember Yang Wanwan?"


    If not for noticing the mole on Xin Ziqing''s chest tonight, she would have long forgotten about this person.


    Huo Shao Ting nodded, "I remember. What about her?"


    "I''m not sure if my memory is failing me, but today I saw a mole on Xin Ziqing that''s identical to the one Yang Wanwan had."


    "News reports said Yang Wanwan drowned while illegally immigrating, and we didn''t follow up on it afterward."


    "But none of us saw her body, and I believe the news reports were true."


    "However, I find it hard to believe it''s just a coincidence that Xin Ziqing seems so strange."


    "It''s like her reincarnation is not as natural as mine, as if Yang Wanwan''s body is rejecting her soul as a vessel."


    Rong Dai told him her thoughts, feeling it was absurd, yet it was her intuition.


    She couldn''t tell others, but she could analyze it with Huo Shao Ting.


    "Shao Ting, this is like what you said, the naturalws may have loopholes, but the probability of such a horrible urrence is extremely low."


    "So I''m wondering if someone else like me is also studying this, and has now seeded?"


    "Otherwise, I can''t exin why Xin Ziqing is involved with the Bertrand family."


    "That can only be the work of someone behind her."


    "But I also hope I''m overthinking this."


    Huo Shao Ting naturally understood what she meant - an artificial "reincarnation".


    Such a thing was indeed horrifying.


    Even with Huo Enterprises'' advanced technology, he could not guarantee the possibility of such an urrence.


    "Go to sleep first, I''ll investigate this matter."


    Heforted Rong Dai, but his heart was uneasy.

 Chapter 569: If She dies, not just us.

    <h4>Chapter 569</h4>


    Rong Dai also knew that what she was saying was indeed horrifying. If another person had heard her say this, they would have taken her for a madwoman.


    "You should also get some rest soon. I''ll be back quickly."


    She gently advised him, looking at him with an adoring gaze.


    "I might have to go on a date in a bit."


    Huo Shao Ting didn''t immediately end the video call, gazing at her with an equally longing expression.


    Rong Dai instantly raised an eyebrow: "A date? With that great beauty, Miss Ying?"


    Even though it was her own request, and she knew he was being honest, she still felt a tinge of jealousy.


    "Unhappy now?"


    Huo Shao Ting liked her reaction.


    All this time, she had been very careful, suppressing her emotions for fear that the people around her would suspect her abnormality.


    Although she would asionally act spoiled in front of him, such moments were too rare.


    Rong Dai huffed: "I''m going to sleep now."


    Huo Shao Ting smiled helplessly and indulgently at her.


    "I know what I''m doing."


    He said softly, exchanging good nights with her before ending the video call.


    Rong Dai ced her phone on the bedside table, looking at the warm yellowmp beside her, longing for Huo Shao Ting as her mind became slightly muddled.


    After tossing and turning for half an hour in bed, she finally fell into a dazed sleep.


    The night was as dark as ink, and Rong Dai slept extremely restlessly.


    Nightmares gued her, with the events of her previous life vividly and bloodily entering her dreams once more.


    Meanwhile, at another hotel, Shi Ning appeared with a cold expression, looking at the pale and weak Xin Ziqing on the bed.


    "Are you ill?"


    As soon as Shi Ning spoke, Xin Ziqing couldn''t help but frown. Could this brat speak properly?


    "I mean, do you really have an illness, or were you just pretending to be sick at the event?"


    Shi Ning realized her mistake and quickly corrected herself.


    "My emotions get the better of me sometimes, it''s an old problem."


    Xin Ziqing casually made up an excuse.


    Thinking about what happened at today''s award ceremony, her expression turned sour!


    She had underestimated that bitch Rong Dai!


    But this was good too, it would make things more interesting!


    Shi Ning''s deep eyes floated with hints of coldness and resentment: "Didn''t you say you could handle that bitch?"


    "Now you''ve only won a bronze award. How will Jinxiu Manor face others after this?"


    She was resentful and dissatisfied!


    If not for Rong Dai, would she have ended up in this situation?


    Her glory, her reputation, had all turned to shit!


    Xin Ziqing was very displeased with Shi Ning''s tone when speaking to her. She really disliked the rules of this world!


    She preferred to be superior, able to determine these lowlifes'' fates with a mere nce!


    Moreover, she was in pain, and had only risked so much to save face.


    "I''m no saint, how could I have a foolproof n?"


    "That was your work, and it only won a bronze. Are you questioning me?"


    Xin Ziqing said coldly.


    Thinking of Rong Dai, she was more dissatisfied than anyone!


    Shi Ning''s expression turned vicious: "I don''t care about all that. That bitch Rong Dai must die here!"


    If Rong Dai died, everything would be solved.


    Xin Ziqing wished for Rong Dai''s death as much as anyone.


    But Rong Dai was still useful, and couldn''t just die like that.


    "You''d better not act recklessly. This is a foreign country, not our homnd."


    "If you cause trouble here, Jinxiu Manor won''t be able to help you."


    Xin Ziqing red at her, very seriously warning her.


    Shi Ningughed coldly: "I''m not that stupid. Having been betrayed by that idiot Yang Yue once was enough!"


    "We''re not the only ones who want her dead."


    Her smile was eerily sinister, sending a chill down Xin Ziqing''s spine.


    If this Shi Ning had been a concubine in the ancient imperial pce, she would have been a formidable opponent!

 Chapter 570: The Last Hours

    <h4>Chapter 570</h4>


    "That vile woman is restless; she thinks that since she has Huo Shao Ting backing her up, she can act shamelessly."


    "This vile woman is digging her own grave. This time, even the heavens will be on our side!"


    Shi Ning said confidently. Seeing Xin Ziqing''s puzzled expression, she exined, "Although my reputation is ruined, I still know a few shady friends."


    "Mei Li is the mayor''s daughter, and Mi Na is a very petty person. These two are no good."


    "That vile woman is digging her own grave."


    Shi Ning said coldly, ring at Xin Ziqing on the bed, "You''re not very capable, are you? I thought you had some tricks up your sleeve!"


    Xin Ziqing was stung by the insult, her expression darkening.


    If the rules of this era weren''t so bothersome, would she have to be so restrained?


    Here, she couldn''t just silence someone at will, and Lan Qian couldn''t get things done. No matter how vicious her schemes were, what could she do?


    "But don''t worry, this will be herst and most brilliant moment in life."


    There was a sinister look in Shi Ning''s eyes. If she could kill Rong Dai with her own hands, it would be so satisfying!


    Xin Ziqing ignored her, watching Shi Ning''s retreating back with contempt in her eyes.


    She had toe up with a new n; she couldn''t deal with this vile woman the same way as in her previous life.


    Rong Dai seemed as useless as ever, but she had be a little sharper.


    "Lan Qian."


    After the conversation with Shi Ning, Xin Ziqing felt parched, but the pain in her body was unbearable, so she called for Lan Qian.


    It took Lan Qian half a minute toe in, still holding her phone, clearly having just finished a call.


    "Whose call was it?"


    Xin Ziqing asked, noticing the phone in her hand.


    She had to keep track of that old man''s movements; her ability to return to the upper realm depended on him.


    Lan Qian poured her some water, then closed the door and sat on the sofa by the bed, looking at her with aplex expression.


    Seeing this, Xin Ziqing no longer felt thirsty.


    "What''s going on?"


    Lan Qian: "It was the professor''s call. There''s a problem in theb, and he may need to rest for a while before continuing his research."


    "The professor told us to keep a close eye on Rong Dai. The Huo Group has always been ahead in technology, so they may already know Rong Dai''s identity and be working on the same research."


    "Additionally, the professor has sent two people, who have already arrived in China. One of them is someone you''ve been very eager to meet."


    "What problem urred in theb? What happened to the professor?"


    Xin Ziqing didn''t hear anything else, focusing solely on this issue.


    "I''m not sure about the details either, but don''t worry."


    "The professor has dedicated his life to this research. As long as you have the medication to sustain you, you won''t die."


    Lan Qian exined, though she too wanted to know what had happened in theb but dared not ask the professor.


    The anxiety and worry in Xin Ziqing''s eyes faded; she knew worrying was useless.


    If that old man was still alive, it didn''t matter if oneb was destroyed.


    "You should rest. The Fashion Wings issue is about to be released, and the winning designers will need to film a short video and do a photoshoot for promotions. You need to be in good shape."


    Lan Qian knew what she was thinking and pulled her nket, reminding her before leaving.


    Xin Ziqing nodded. Her body ached as if she was being sliced by knives; how could she possibly sleep?


    Why was she in so much pain in this body, while that brat Rong Dai seemed perfectly fine?

 Chapter 571: Ying Bing Ling鈥檚 Jiao

    <h4>Chapter 571</h4>


    "Sister Ming, didn''t you say that Mr. Huo would arrive on time? Howe he hasn''t shown up yet?" Ying Bingling kept ncing at her wristwatch, and it was almost dinnertime.


    She had been standing by the floor-to-ceiling window in the private room, waiting patiently to avoid wrinkling her elegant dress, lest she appear disrespectful in front of Huo Shao Ting.


    But after waiting and waiting, her toes were almost numb, and there was still no sign of Huo Shao Ting.


    Ming Xin gave her a cold andplex look. "How would I know? I''m not Mr. Huo."


    She had really underestimated this Ying Bingling!


    After the charity night incident, she had warned her when she returned.


    Once the charity night was over, Ying Bingling had secured valuable resources andnded several domestic brand endorsements, even signing contracts with a few major international brands.


    Her poprity had surpassed the overseas scandal involving Rong Dai, yet she was still this greedy!


    Stunned by Ming Xin''s words, Ying Bingling''s expression stiffened slightly before she quickly tried to cate her. "Sister Ming, I''m only doing this for my career!"


    "I know what I''m doing. I''ve been in this industry for so long; I''m well aware of how these scandals are fanned."


    "Besides, the more I earn, the more you get too, right?"


    "I haven''t forgotten what I should do. As an actress, I can give some people what they want to see."


    Ying Bingling hurried forward and grabbed Ming Xin''s wrist, exining in a soft, gentle voice.


    Ming Xin stared into her eyes, her expression cold and suspicious. "Are you sure?"


    Ying Bingling smiled sweetly. "Sister Ming, I know you care about an artist''s public image, and I understand Mr. Huo''s needs."


    "I''m not that foolish to dig my own grave."


    "This is an opportunity Mr. Huo gave me, so of course, I''ll perform well."


    She exined half-truthfully and half-deceptively. Indeed, she had to cherish this stroke of luck.


    But as for other matters, she believed that with enough effort, everything could be achieved gradually.


    She knew men''s hearts too well; there was no such thing as absolute loyalty in this world.


    Even a man like Huo Shao Ting, who had tasted the finest delicacies, would crave a simple bowl of rice porridge sometimes.


    She didn''t mind being that simple bowl of rice porridge.


    "It''s good if you remember that, or else you''ll be ruining your own career."


    Ming Xin was half-convinced.


    Although she knew Ying Bingling''s character well and understood that Ying Bingling valued her own career: otherwise, she wouldn''t have made it this far so smoothly: she still hoped that Ying Bingling would cherish this opportunity, after which a bright future awaited!


    However, she couldn''t guarantee that Ying Bingling wouldn''t fall for Huo Shao Ting''s charm.


    While she was aware of Ying Bingling''s acting skills, and Ying Bingling had exined it that way, this person was Huo Shao Ting.


    "Sister Ming, I understand."


    How could she not understand?


    That''s why she had to be patient and take it slow, at least allowing Mr. Huo to remember who she was first.


    Just as they finished their conversation, the door to the private room opened.


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was as cold as ever, his suit impable, his presence as imposing as always.


    "Mr. Huo."


    Upon seeing Huo Shao Ting, Ying Bingling immediately greeted him with a gentle smile.


    After entering, Huo Shao Ting stood by the door, one hand in his pocket, his expression cool as he looked at her. "Eat by yourself. I''ll leave once you''re done."


    With that, he walked over and sat down on the sofa.


    Ying Bingling''s smile stiffened slightly. Although Ming Xin wasn''t entirely reassured, she couldn''t stay and intrude.


    She also needed to extract some information from Zhang Assistant to be on the safe side.


    After Ming Xin left, Ying Bingling rxed a little, her face breaking into a charming smile as she approached Huo Shao Ting.


    "Mr. Huo..."


    Her voice was soft, sweet, and tinged with a whining tone that could melt one''s scalp!

 Chapter 572: Just Love You

    <h4>Chapter 572</h4>


    Saying this, she was about to lean towards Huo Shao Ting, her face wearing a gentle and charming smile, with an unmistakable hint of seductiveness in her eyes.


    Huo Shao Ting sat on the sofa, his brows and eyes cold and aloof. When the strong fragrance of Ying Bingling''s perfume wafted into his nostrils, a sh of iciness passed through his eyes.


    "Do you want to die?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was icy cold as he raised his eyes, his gaze piercingly frigid as he stared at her.


    Ying Bingling froze, her movements halted mid-air, and the smile she thought was ravishing became a frozen grimace.


    "Mr. Huo, I... I was just feeling sorry for you."


    "I''m so grateful to Mr. Huo for giving me this opportunity. I just wanted to do my best to thank you."


    Ying Bingling forced a smile as she exined, but meeting Huo Shao Ting''s icy stare made her heart pound.


    "Feeling sorry?"


    Huo Shao Ting''s long fingers rested on his knee, tapping rhythmically as his deep, mellow voice carried a dangerous undertone.


    "Do I need your pity?"


    "Do I need your gratitude?"


    He stood up, his tall figure looming over Ying Bingling, exuding an icy chill that filled her with dread.


    Ying Bingling''s face turned deathly pale, even her nude lips nching as her pupils involuntarily constricted!


    "Mr. Huo, let me exin!"


    "Everything I have, even myself, was given by the Huo Corporation. So everything of mine, including myself, belongs to you, Mr. Huo!"


    "I have no intention ofpeting for the position of your wife. I only want to do my humble part to share your burdens..."


    Ying Bingling grew frantic and instinctively grabbed Huo Shao Ting''s sleeve.


    Huo Shao Ting despised being touched by any woman other than his wife, and the long-absent ferocity resurfaced. His gaze became even more icy and menacing as he stared at Ying Bingling''s hand clutching his sleeve, his voice deathly calm: "Let go."


    Ying Bingling naturally didn''t want to, but his gaze was too terrifying!


    She felt as if her hand was being sawed off, her whole body plunged into an ice cer, surrounded by bone-chilling coldness!


    "I... I... Mr. Huo, I''m willing to do anything!"


    "I know I''m insignificant, and youck nothing, Mr. Huo. I have nothing to offer in return."


    "But... but this worthless body is all I can offer you."


    Ying Bingling shivered from the cold, but she said what she needed to say.


    If she didn''t say it now, she might never get another chance.


    Huo Shao Ting stared at her, his piercing gaze flickering towards the window opposite, his voice t and cold: "Since you''re so self-aware, you''re still seeking death?"


    "Since you know you''re worthless, what makes you think you have the right to pleasure me? To ask for my favor?"


    "Miss Ying, not every man is so indiscriminate."


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was icy cold, his eyes piercing as he strode out.


    "Sir."


    "Mr. Huo..."


    Seeing hime out so soon, Zhang Assistant and Ming Xin both sensed something was amiss.


    Huo Shao Ting stood at the door, taking off his suit jacket and tossing it to Zhang Assistant, his icy gaze fixed on Ming Xin.


    "Was it her idea, or yours?"


    Ming Xin looked bewildered, but she had a sinking feeling that something catastrophic had happened!


    "Mr. Huo, let me exin, I didn''t mean it like that..."


    Ying Bingling, who had been frozen in the private room, finally came out, her face pale and panicked!


    Seeing her in this state, Ming Xin knew it was bad news!


    As Ying Bingling persisted in clinging to him, Huo Shao Ting''s expression darkened, his gaze ominously sweeping over Zhang Assistant: "From the Huo Corporation and online, I don''t want to see this person appear again."


    Zhang Assistant''s heart skipped a beat: wasn''t this essentially cklisting her?

 Chapter 573: Still Want to Be a Person

    <h4>Chapter 573</h4>


    Upon hearing those words, Ming Xin''s legs went weak, and she nearly copsed to the ground!


    She angrily nced at the still dazed Ying Bingling, having already warned her not to court disaster!


    "President Huo, Bingling is young and naive."


    "Plus, thepany has just started grooming her, which wasn''t easy. Could you please give her another chance? I will definitely keep her in check."


    Her interests were indeed tied to Ying Bingling''s, but more importantly, she had been lingering as an ordinary agent for too long!


    She needed to sprint for the gold agent status!


    As long as Ying Bingling behaved and didn''t entertain those oundish ideas, the gold agent status would eventually be hers.


    If she had to spend more time and effort cultivating another talent, who knows when the opportunity woulde again.


    Hearing Ming Xin''s exnation, Huo Shao Ting halted his steps and fixed her with an icy re.


    "She''s young, that''s true, but naive is an understatement."


    "If Huo Corporation can make her famous, we can do the same for others."


    Huo Shao Ting disdainfully nced at Ying Bingling: "I detest the arrogant."


    "If you still want a career, you''d better stay in line, or I won''t hesitate to take action against a woman."


    With that, he turned and left.


    Zhang Assistant cast a deep look at Ying Bingling, seldom having seen the boss so enraged, and hurried after him.


    "Someone was secretly taking photos across the street. Take care of it, I don''t want to see anything unpleasant online."


    Huo Shao Ting''s voice was icy cold, his entire being unsettled.


    It seemed he would have to reconsider agreeing to his dear wife''s requests, as this was clearly a trap!


    Zhang Assistant''s expression changed, having sensed Ying Bingling''s ambition since the charity night.


    But he never expected her to be so bold as to scheme against the boss!


    Did she think she had nine lives to y with?!


    Ming Xin was equally infuriated. Seeing Ying Bingling still dazed, she angrily pped her hard across the face!


    "Now you''ve ruined everything! Your bright future, gone just like that!"


    Ying Bingling finally snapped out of it, one hand covering her cheek, filled not just with resentment but more so dread!


    She couldn''t understand how things had gone so wrong?


    ording to the n, by now she should have had a heart-to-heart with President Huo, paving the way for her meteoric rise.


    But why was President Huo cklisting her instead?


    "Sister Ming, please help me. I know I was wrong!"


    "I can''t be cklisted! We''ve only just secured all those resources!"


    "If I''m cklisted, it will take you years to cultivate another talent, dying your gold agent status!"


    Ying Bingling panicked, for without a future, what did she have?


    Ming Xin red at her coldly, filled with resentment and rage!


    She thought she knew Ying Bingling, but never expected her to be so stupid!


    Brazenly trying to seduce President Huo?


    Was her brain filled with in water?!


    "Help? How can I help? By begging on my knees?"


    "Did you really think you were some irresistible beauty? Without thepany''s packaging, you''d be just another face in the crowd without makeup!"


    Ming Xin was seething with anger!


    "Being cklisted and shelved is a given, but you''ve earned quite a bit over the years, enough to live an ordinary lifefortably."


    "President Huo has made his stance clear, there''s no room forpromise, unless you can get Madam to speak up."


    "Only Madam can make the President change his mind."


    "You dug your own grave, now you lie in it. I can''t help you!"


    Ming Xin scoffed coldly. Even if President Huo was willing to give another chance, she had no desire to work with such an imbecile again!


    One day that fool might drag her down too!

 Chapter 574: Invited Again

    <h4>Chapter 574</h4>


    She finished speaking and left Ying Bingling in a state of shock and panic, turning to leave the restaurant.


    She needed to reconsider her future prospects, as President Huo had clearly be angry today.


    Even if thepany kept her on, the resources avable to her would likely be harder to secure than before.


    An agent without resources was as good as useless - how could she cultivate artists?


    She had given up on Ying Bingling.


    Once the president gave the order, could there be any hope left?


    Ying Bingling stood outside the private room for a long time, her mind buzzing and nk.


    cklisted!


    She was going to be cklisted!


    Thinking of Huo Shao Ting''s appearance as he left, she shuddered, trembling as she turned back to the private room and took out her phone to make a frantic call.


    ...


    Rong Dai repeated that dream again that night, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t recall it upon waking.


    After sitting nkly on the bed for a few minutes, she got up and washed up. Song Xuechun also woke up early today, bringing breakfast to Rong Dai''s room to eat together, with Jing Chen following behind her.


    "If it weren''t for these troublesome matters, I really wouldn''t mind Paris at all."


    Song Xuechun sipped her coffee by the window, looking out at the early morning in Paris, unable to help but remark.


    Rong Dai didn''t respond, taking a sip of her red tea. Zong Che and Ji Zheng knocked on the door, and Jing Chen went to open it.


    "The event will likely be a hot topic today, and the situation back home is still under control. The priority now is thewsuit with Dream Transmission Media here."


    After sitting down, Zong Che maintained his usual habit of reporting on work matters.


    "Fashion Wings wants to do a promotional photoshoot for their award-winning magazine. I''ve looked over Lu Nianzhi''s ns for you, and I''ve secured a jewelry endorsement for you."


    "Another well-known polo equipmentpany has also sent an email expressing interest in having you as their brand ambassador."


    "These are all pieces of content that Lu Nianzhi sent over yesterday. She carefully selected them, so you can screen through them yourself."


    "Once things are settled here, it will align nicely with the timing back home."


    Rong Dai listened while looking over the materials in her hands.


    Although Lu Nianzhi excelled in finance, the recent challenges had also sharpened her eye for discernment.


    "Dai''er, do you still n to develop in the entertainment industry? Will the Huo family approve?"


    "I''ve heard that many wealthy families are reluctant to let their daughters-inw get involved with that circle, but it would be a pity to let go of these resources."


    Song Xuechun was also examining the materials. These endorsements had been meticulously chosen - any popr celebrity would jump at the chance.


    Rong Dai looked over the materials, recalling her previous discussions with Lu Nianzhi, and decided to endorse Mn Fragrance based on her own poprity.


    "I''ll take them. Shao Ting knows about this."


    When Lu Nianzhi was nning Rong Dai''s career, these opportunities had already been approved by Huo Shao Ting.


    It was just that she hadn''t figured out how to exin it to the Matriarch yet.


    As they were just finishing their briefing in the room, the doorbell rang again.


    Jing Chen nced through the peephole and saw the butler from the Bertrand family who had blocked their path at the hotelst night. He asked Rong Dai for instructions.


    Rong Dai handed the materials back to Zong Che, her eyes half-lowered as she calmly said, "What was bound to happen will happen. Let him in."


    Only then did Jing Chen open the door, as they had booked a suite with a separate living room for receiving guests.


    "Mrs. Huo."


    A man in his early thirties, apanied by the butler, entered. His gaze uratelynded on Rong Dai as he politely bowed in greeting, fluently introducing himself in Chinese.


    "I sincerely apologize for the butler''s rashness yesterday, which is why I''vee in person today to invite Mrs. Huo on behalf of my father. I hope Mrs. Huo will honor us with her presence."


    Rong Dai frowned at him, letting out a lightugh. "The Bertrand family is nobility. I would have thought your household would at least send an invitation before extending such a request. It seems I was mistaken."


    She would definitely pay a visit to the Bertrand family, but she couldn''t make it seem too easy.

 Chapter 575: What if I Refuse

    <h4>Chapter 575</h4>


    John let out a lightugh: "The situation is urgent, I hope thedy will excuse me."


    "My father is indisposed and unable to wee thedy in person."


    "The carriage is waiting outside the hotel. When would thedy be ready to depart?"


    Rong Dai looked at him. Since they had prepared so thoroughly, refusing further would seem impolite on her part.


    "Please wait for me downstairs, sir."


    John nodded with a smile, not insisting any further, and went downstairs with the butler.


    "I can go with Song Xuechun and Jing Chen. You two handle your duties, and the sooner we finish, the sooner we can return to our country."


    After they left, Rong Dai instructed the others.


    Neither Zong Che nor Ji Zheng had any objections to this arrangement. After gathering their documents, they immediately went out.


    Jing Chen nced at them: "Try to wear clothes that can conceal defensive daggers."


    Rong Dai nodded, then she and Song Xuechun changed into ankle-length dresses, each concealing a sharp mini military dagger on their thighs.


    When Jing Chen noticed where they hid their daggers, the corner of his mouth twitched, and he escorted them downstairs to join John on their way to Bertelen Castle.


    "Do you all remember that woman''s face?"


    In the hotel restaurant downstairs by the window, a group of six or seven people gathered, with a few eating breakfast, including Shi Ning among them.


    After the Bertelen family''s carriage left, she pulled down her hood, her gaze filled with deep resentment. Though her French was not perfect, it was understandable.


    "Remember our n. If sessful, I''ll uphold my promise and get you passports to leave the country."


    Mina sat beside Shi Ning. It was quite a coincidence that these two were friends who had both fallen victim to the same person.


    The other five men and women, who clearly didn''t have respectable upations, nodded and hastily finished their food before leaving the restaurant to stake out their positions.


    Meanwhile, at the airport, An Feiran was with her butler, watching the ne take off. She then took out her phone and dialed Arthur''s number: "You can release the news now."


    On the other end, Arthur acknowledged and then informed her that Rong Dai had gone to Bertelen Castle as a guest.


    "This is simply outrageous!"


    An Feiran was furious, but her eyes were filled with worry.


    "I''ve already sent people to follow them. There shouldn''t be any major issues. Don''t worry."


    Arthur reassured her.


    An Feiran didn''t say anything further and hung up the phone, hurriedly leaving the airport.


    Arthur looked at his phone screen with a slight smile, then personally proceeded to handle the news release for Bameng Media.


    He was quite curious about what was so special about this Mrs. Huo that so many people seemed intent on protecting her.


    But this thought onlysted a fleeting moment.


    Inside Bertelen Castle, Rong Dai sat on the sofa. Everything in the ancient castle felt like it had a sense of history, yet it was also luxurious.


    Song Xuechun sat beside her, while Jing Chen stood guard behind them.


    After waiting for nearly five minutes in the reception hall, John finally pushed his father Carlos out to meet them.


    Carlos was dressed in a proper but simple outfit, with a thin gray wool nket covering his legs, clearly showing he was a man of wealth and nobility.


    Carlos was nearly sixty years old, but his sharp gaze remained prating as it immediately locked onto Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai sat with poise, meeting Carlos''s gaze with a calm expression.


    "Today, we invited Mrs. Huo here for a reason we both understand, so there''s no need to beat around the bush."


    Carlos didn''t bother greeting her, his attitude and demeanor incredibly arrogant as he cut straight to the point.


    Rong Dai''s beautiful eyes held a deep, lingering smile: "Mr. Bertelen is certainly a straightforward man."


    She paused, her smile turning cold: "But what if I refuse?"

 Chapter 576: Be Teased

    <h4>Chapter 576</h4>


    Rong Dai looked at Carlos with a disdainful tone: "Mrs. Hoff, this is Paris, you have no right to refuse, no one has ever been able to refuse the Bertrand family."


    Rong Dai shook her head with a lightugh: "China''s Qing Dynasty has long since perished, and your country has also long since had no monarch."


    "Whether we call them nobles or not, it''s just a matter of being respectful."


    "Even if you act brazenly, it''s just to save face for you."


    "Bameng Media has maliciously spread false information, severely damaging my reputation. Can''t I defend my rights?"


    "So-called nobles, yet they''ve lost even the most basic etiquette and courtesy. How can they still call themselves nobles?"


    "Outwardly golden but inwardly rotten - everyone knows this. Mr. Bertrand, why do you need to put on such airs in front of me?"


    Her words came quick and sharp,ced with disdain and mockery.


    "If Mr. Bertrand had approached me politely today, I might have agreed."


    "But s, I''m the kind of person who doesn''t yield to force."


    "Your threats may work on others, but they have no effect on me."


    She stood up, her beautiful face beaming with a smile, yet exuding an intangible chill and intimidation.


    Carlos had to look up at her, unable to hold back his rebuke: "You''re too arrogant! I never said you couldn''t deal with Bameng Media, I just told you to leave Brocade Embroidery Workshop alone!"


    Rong Dai gave John, standing behind Carlos, a meaningful look. It seemed the Bertrand family wasn''t as harmonious as it seemed.


    The old man must have mentioned something about Xin Ziqing, but John didn''t say anything when he came to invite her.


    "Leave them alone? Mr. Bertrand, have you not grasped the situation?"


    "The video was leaked by Bameng Media, what does it have to do with Brocade Embroidery Workshop?"


    Bameng Media must be connected to Xin Ziqing, but Xin Ziqing is too cautious, leaving no evidence behind.


    So the only ones they could force to open their mouths were Bameng Media.


    Originally, Bameng Media had someone backing them, fearless of heaven or earth, able to defy everything.


    But now the situation is different, they''ve sued Bameng Media, and some nobles who were once victims are piling on.


    Bameng Media is now a street rat.


    A person only goes all out when they feel their own crisis.


    Originally, if Xin Ziqing just stayed in the detention center, Bameng Media might not have immediately given her up.


    But unfortunately, she sought help from the Bertrand family, and Bameng Media itself is not clean, having offended countless nobles.


    Xin Ziqing''s move, of course, angered them, and it was only a matter of time before they threw her under the bus.


    Hearing her words, Carlos frowned, only realizing he had been toyed with when he saw the smile on Rong Dai''s face.


    "You''re mocking me?" The old man began coughing heavily in his agitation.


    Rong Dai shook her head: "It''s you who didn''t grasp the situation, but thank you Mr. Bertrand for this unexpected gain."


    Carlos flushed purple with rage. What he hated most was dealing with these Oriental people!


    Devious, cunning, as repulsive as rats in a sewer!


    "So you mean you refuse to let this go? You insist on pursuing it to the end?"


    Carlos'' face darkened. If only she would relent here, he had ways of appeasing Bameng Media''s side.


    But he never expected this young woman to be so sharp-tongued! Provoking him from the very start!


    "It''s not a matter of me pursuing it now, but whether Bameng Media is willing to let it go."


    "But I think it''s toote for that."


    She gave Carlos a meaningful smile, her gaze falling on the phone in Song Xuechun''s hand.


    On it was thetest news from Bameng Media.

 Chapter 577: No More Meddling

    <h4>Chapter 577</h4>


    Seeing her gesture, Carlos was puzzled. John was quick-witted and immediately took out his phone to search.


    When he saw the news about Bameng Media, he was also taken aback.


    "Alden has resigned from his position as chief editor of Bameng Media and left the country with his family. Although the video he recorded before leaving may not convince everyone."


    "But suspicion has taken root. If the Brocade Embroidery Workshop doesn''t take action, they will inevitably get caught up in this no matter what."


    "Mr. Carlos, what do you think?" Rong Dai asked with a smile.


    If it weren''t for the Bertelen Family''s connection with Xin Ziqing, she wouldn''t havee to talk to this old man.


    It''s just that she was also puzzled as to why Alden, who had previously been so fierce and menacing, suddenly became timid. He even left the country with his entire family.


    Carlos looked displeased and sternly ordered John as he rolled his wheelchair: "Show the guest out!"


    John nced at the old man''s departing back, then looked at her apologetically: "My father is ailing, so he can''t help but be irritable. Please forgive him, Mrs. Huo."


    Rong Dai looked at him deeply: "Mr. John, is that really the case?"


    John was clearly being intentional. Although Carlos was arrogant, at his age, he still had his wits about him when making decisions.


    If he didn''t have confidence in dealing with Bameng Media, the old man wouldn''t have invited her.


    It was evident that someone didn''t want the old man to intervene in Bameng Media''s affairs.


    John smiled: "Mrs. Huo is insightful. I''ve had tea and snacks prepared in the manor''s garden. Why don''t you join me there?"


    Rong Dai checked the time; it was still early. "Very well."


    She also wanted to learn more about the Bertelen Family''s situation.


    Afterward, they moved to the small garden of the ancient castle. Being aristocrats, the Bertelen Family''s castle had a vast area, with lushwns and fruit trees all around.


    However, the weather wasn''t great that day. The sky was overcast and gloomy, indicating an imminent storm.


    "Please don''t take my father''s actions personally, Mrs. Huo. He was forced into this situation and had no choice but to intervene."


    "However, Bameng Media brought this upon themselves. As for the matter between you and the Brocade Embroidery Workshop, the Bertelen Family will no longer interfere."


    John''s attitude had be more humble.


    Rong Dai raised an eyebrow and looked at him impassively: "I''m quite curious as to whom I''ve offended, that you would seek Mr. Bertelen''s assistance against me."


    John shook his head with a faint smile: "I''m not aware of that. My father hasn''t informed us, his children, of many things due to his unstable emotions in recent years."


    "But rest assured, Mrs. Huo, this is the first andst time. The Bertelen Family will never offend you again."


    "I hope you can understand. The Bertelen Family still wees you and Mr. Huo. We can still be friends, and there''s no need to let these trivial matters ruin our rtionship."


    Rong Dai didn''t expect to hear the information she wanted from him.


    But John''s words made her helpless and amused.


    The other party probably saw the influence of the Huo Family, which is why their attitude changed so quickly.


    "It''s gettingte. Thank you for the tea and snacks, Mr. John. If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave."


    As she spoke, she stood up.


    Since she couldn''t get the information she wanted, there was no need to stay and listen to nonsense.


    Bing friends was impossible.


    Seeing her say this, John''s expression became slightly stiff.


    But considering her status, he could only endure it.


    "I''ve arranged a car for you. Here''s my card. If you encounter any trouble in Paris, I may be able to help."


    He also stood up and took out an exquisitely made business card from his pocket, handing it to her.

 Chapter 578: Hit the ground three feet to die.

    <h4>Chapter 578</h4>


    Rong Dai''s smile was radiant yet carried a chill, her gaze concealing thinly veiled sarcasm: "I''d rather not have any affairs that require me to seek your aid, sir!"


    John was momentarily stunned, but by the time he recovered, Rong Dai had already left the little garden.


    Boom!


    May in Paris brought frequent showers, and as soon as Rong Dai and her twopanions exited the Bertelen Family''s ancient castle, a thunderous roar came from the sky and pea-sized raindrops came pouring down.


    "Mrs. Huo, this rain is quite heavy. It would take some time to return to the hotel from here. Might we wait for it to let up a bit?" John asked, still hoping to change Rong Dai''s mind despite his previous failure.


    Rong Dai nced at him but withdrew her gaze, watching the raindrops sshing at her feet. With a smile, she said, "Does sir John understand the meaning of ''fateful encounter''? The honored Bertelen Family and I have no such connection."


    As soon as she finished speaking, Jing Chen arrived in a car.


    Rong Dai and Song Xuechun sat in the back seat, and as John watched the car speed away, he couldn''t help but sigh.


    But for the Bertelen Family, this was hardly a loss worth noting.


    Some, however, suffered gravely.


    Back home, Zong Che had already received the materials and videos that Huo Mei Shu and a few others had polished after discussing with Lu Nian Zhi early that morning. During this period, Lu Nian Zhi had also be familiar with the inner workings of this circle.


    The materials and videos were allpiled by Zong Che himself. After refining them with Huo Mei Shu and others, they published the content across Mn Xiang''s various public tforms.


    This video stirred up a thousand ripples, immediately propelling Brocade Embroidery Workshop to the top of the trending charts!


    Meanwhile in France, Alden resigned and left the country. The video exposed his contact number, and some underground experts quickly traced it back based on the leads provided by Mo Jinsen and others.


    The data matched perfectly with what they had provided, but that wasn''t the most damning evidence.


    The photographer hired by Lan Qian had received arge sum of money but ignored Lan Qian''s instructions to leave the country immediately. Instead, he squandered the money at a casino.


    However, after causing amotion when he lost everything, the casino''s enforcers "disciplined" him, and he divulged information he shouldn''t have.


    With this, the evidence wasplete - testimony, physical evidence, all ounted for.


    How could the court possibly rule in favor of Bameng Media now? Their prospects of establishing a foothold were utterly dashed.


    But for Brocade Embroidery Workshop, this news was a devastating blow!


    The inte is never short of troublemakers. Before Zong Che could arrange for Mn Xiang to release their statement, someone had already leaked the news through the FB social app.


    #Award Fraud, How Far Can Brocade Embroidery Workshop Go?#


    #rification: Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s Malicious Competition, Framing Rivals#


    #We Owe Rong Dai and Mn Xiang an Apology#


    These three posts instantly became trending topics nationwide. The video evidence was clear, and with both testimony and physical evidence, the case was a m dunk!


    Upon seeing the news, Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s PR team had already given up struggling.


    How could they possibly fight this? They''d been beaten to a pulp!


    Lying in her hotel bed, Xin Ziqing was bombarded with a barrage of overseas calls from Brocade Embroidery Workshop''s top brass!


    Xin Ziqing''s expression was grim. This wasn''t even her area of expertise - what could she do?


    Rong Dai was just too damn lucky, always having a bunch of people to take the fall for her. Did they expect Xin Ziqing to murder her in broad daylight?


    "In any case, I have nothing to do with this affair. I never gave such an order!"


    "My assistant''s phone went missing as soon as she arrived in Paris. Who knows if this whole thing was a self-orchestrated stunt?"


    "Now that Alden has left the country, what evidence is there?"


    "I might as well resign and take responsibility!"


    Xin Ziqing was infuriated, her expression exceptionally gloomy.


    Especially when she saw the TV reports on thewsuits against Bameng Media and the ensuing issues, she wished she could reach through the screen and tear Alden''s mouth to shreds!

 Chapter 579: Dismissal, Assassination

    <h4>Chapter 579</h4>


    When the higher-ups at the Brocade Embroidery Workshop heard her attitude, they were instantly enraged!


    Despite Xin Ziqing, the founder, being present, they could not be stopped from unanimously voting to remove her from her position as the Design Director.


    #BrocadeEmbroideryWorkshopDesignDirectorRemoved#


    #ShortestServingDesignDirectorInHistory#


    These two trending topics quickly appeared on Weibo, infuriating Xin Ziqing!


    Although separated by oceans, she was still aware of the situation back home.


    She didn''t expect the Brocade Embroidery Workshop to actually dare to do this!


    They directly fired her!


    Xin Ziqing was furious, while Lan Qian''s face darkened as court officials came to "invite" them to exin the situation.


    Seeing this, Xin Ziqing''s face turned ck.


    Didn''t they have all the evidence and witness testimony? What more was there to exin?


    Xin Ziqing felt utterly suppressed these past few days!


    After all, Shangyuan was better. If this had happened at Shangyuan, none of these people would have dared to go against her!


    ...


    "Buckle up, the situation doesn''t seem right."


    Rong Dai and the others were still on their way back to the hotel when Jing Chen warned them in a low voice halfway through.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Rong Dai instinctively looked out the side windows, but could only see the pouring rain.


    Since Bertelen Castle was far from the city center, the return journey took time, and the roads on either side were quite deserted, with a few abandoned factories along the way.


    "I don''t know, it just doesn''t feel right. Fasten your seatbelts and pull down the car curtains."


    Jing Chen shook his head, his face tense.


    Song Xuechun and Rong Dai didn''t dare neglect his instructions and immediately pulled down the curtains.


    "Keep low, and no matter what happens, don''t scream unless I tell you to."


    Jing Chen warned them, reaching under the car seat to retrieve a gun and quickly loading it!


    Bang!


    Suddenly, gunshots rang out from a distance, hitting the door panel at the back! Although it was an armored vehicle, the collision with the bullets created a piercing, shrill sound.


    Song Xuechun''s face was filled with terror, her entire body shaking uncontrobly!


    Rong Dai''s expression was grave. Having experienced the cruelty of the battlefield and the dark events of her past life, she remained rtivelyposed.


    However, she was still unfamiliar with firearms and felt a lingering fear deep down.


    "Don''t stick your head out!"


    Jing Chen''s eyes turned icy cold as he rapidly dialed Zong Che''s number while quickly turning the car around!


    "Going back to Bertelen Castle is the safest option now. There are bound to be more ambushes ahead!"


    Jing Chen exined to the two, mming on the elerator, causing the entire car to nearly take off!


    Rong Dai pursed her lips tightly, giving him a muffled acknowledgment.


    But as soon as the car turned around, a more intense barrage of gunshots rang out.


    A rapid session of shots, like firecrackers bursting!


    Rong Dai''s scalp tensed, and Song Xuechun tightly gripped her hand, their hands both abnormally cold and drenched in sticky sweat.


    "Everything will be alright."


    Rong Dai reassured her, wishing she had let Song Xuechun go with Zong Che and the others.


    She had only gained a cursory understanding of the situation abroad from news reports, but she never expected foreign assassinations to be so brazen!


    To openly attempt an assassination in broad daylight was unthinkable!


    "Mmhmm..."


    Song Xuechun trembled as she responded, refusing to let go of Rong Dai''s hand and resting her head on herp, tears streaming down her face!


    Bang!


    Suddenly, the car violently shook, jolting the three upants!


    A tire had burst, causing the vehicle to veer uncontrobly towards an abandoned small factory by the side of the road!


    Jing Chen''s driving skills were as fierce as a tiger, barely managing to prevent the car from crashing!


    But gunshots started flying out from the abandoned small factory as well!


    Hitting the ss and creating cracks.


    Although the curtains were drawn, Rong Dai felt a tingling sensation between her brows, sensing that one of the bullets was aimed directly at her head!

 Chapter 580: I Can Help You

    <h4>Chapter 580</h4>


    Rong Dai''s face tightened, her breathing slowed instinctively. She saw the crack in the corner of the car window.


    If this continued, this car wouldn''t be able to protect them for much longer.


    And they were caught between a rock and a hard ce.


    There were people in the abandoned factories on both sides, alling after them.


    Now with the car tires shot out, they couldn''t leave, and they were still some distance from Bertelen Castle.


    "Dai... Dai''er... will we die here?"


    Song Xuechun usually appeared nonchnt, but she had never encountered such a perilous situation. It was natural for her to be afraid.


    Tears kept flowing from her eyes, and her voice trembled as she spoke.


    Rong Dai''s heart ached as if stabbed with needles. In her previous life, it was her own foolishness that caused her tribesmen to suffer!


    And now Song Xuechun had to pay the price for her weakness.


    A sense of hatred and anger spread in her heart, permeating her entire body!


    Her face grew even colder, but her gaze towards Song Xuechun was exceptionally gentle and determined.


    She reached out and tidied Song Xuechun''s disheveled hair beside her ear, her voice soft: "No, don''t worry."


    "Dai''er, I believe you."


    Song Xuechun was greatly encouraged, quickly wiping the tears from her eyes.


    "Stay in the car and don''t move. I''ll go out, these people must be dealt with."


    Jing Chen observed the situation outside while swiftly retrieving and loading several firearms from under the passenger seat.


    Rong Dai looked at these dark, menacing guns, and her heart pounded a little.


    But she had to protect those around her!


    She nced at Song Xuechun, who was clearly terrified yet remained strong, not daring to cry out loud.


    She couldn''t let those around her suffer because of her again, like in her previous life!


    "Can you teach me how to use them?"


    She asked Jing Chen. The car''s intelligent assistant had already issued a red alert - the car''s body was nearing its limit from the barrage of bullets.


    Jing Chen didn''t hesitate, selecting a Browning handgun and handing it to her while demonstrating and exining its use simultaneously.


    "Do you understand?"


    "I understand."


    Rong Dai nodded, gripping the weighty handgun in her hand. The feeling was simr to holding a bow.


    "If an enemy approaches, you must aim for their forehead and shoot, but only when you''re confident."


    "This is not a joke! Understand?"


    Jing Chen sternly instructed before swiftly slipping out of the car like an eel.


    "Xuechun, keep low and stay in the back seat. Don''t move."


    She cautioned Song Xuechun. The sounds hitting the car had changed pitch - at this rate, the car would be disabled at any moment.


    Song Xuechun hugged her head and nodded while lying in the back seat, looking at Rong Dai with fear and apprehension.


    Rong Dai gathered her skirt at her waist and tied a knot, wearing safety pants underneath. She couldn''t care about proper etiquette now - survival was the priority.


    With improved mobility, she crouched from the back seat to the front. Hearing Jing Chen''s gunfire, the bullets hitting the car body had weakened significantly.


    "Dai''er!"


    Seeing Rong Dai slipping out, Song Xuechun screamed in fright!


    Bang bang!


    More intense gunfire followed, startling her into panicked tears as she hurriedly covered her mouth.


    Jing Cheny under the car, infuriated when Rong Dai suddenly appeared beside him!


    "Why did youe out?!"


    His task was to protect her - was she trying to be a target?


    Rong Dai found a spot beside him andy down, her exquisite makeup long ruined by the rain.


    Sshing mud and waternded on her face, which glowed pale white and radiated a chilling coldness.


    "I can help you."


    Her tone was resolute.


    Jing Chen was so angry he felt like having a heart attack. She didn''t even know how to use a gun - not causing trouble would be a win!

 Chapter 581: Lack of Touch

    <h4>Chapter 581</h4>


    She knew Jing Chen would not believe her, and did not exin further. She shifted her body forward to get a better view for observation.


    "Don''t leave my side."


    Jing Chen felt helpless. Getting out of the car was easy, but getting back in was difficult.


    Now he had no way to put her back in the car, so he could only caution her.


    Whether it was due to the loud sound of thunder, or Rong Dai not responding, Jing Chen did not hear her voice.


    Rong Dai observed the abandoned factory, which had almost beenpletely demolished, leaving few ces to take cover.


    Hearing Jing Chen firing beside her, she tilted her head slightly to observe, while adjusting her posture.


    Jing Chen saw her learning quickly and did not say anything, his gaze as sharp as an eagle''s as he stared at the peopleing from the highway.


    Unfortunately, the heavy rain greatly impacted visibility.


    Bang!


    Rong Dai suddenly fired, startling Jing Chen and making the muscles on his back tighten abruptly!


    "First time shooting,cking a bit of feel for it."


    Rong Dai''s shot went wide, hitting a pir instead, but still startling the person hiding behind it.


    Jing Chen swallowed hard: "Be careful not to hurt yourself."


    Rong Dai nodded, continuing to focus on finding targets.


    In her past life, her father had taught her archery meticulously. Although archery differed somewhat from using a handgun,


    as long as she aimed properly, the principle remained the same - the more things change, the more they stay the same. As long as she could hit the target, it would suffice.


    Bang!


    Secondster, she fired again!


    Jing Chen felt his back muscles tense up again, and from the corner of his eye, he saw someone fall from the second floor of the abandoned factory.


    Yet Rong Dai remained calm and steady, her gaze as sharp as a de being unsheathed, her bright white face spattered with mud sshed up from thewn.


    But this only made her look even more vigorous and valiant!


    Bang, bang, bang!


    Another series of rapid attacks followed, and Jing Chen refocused his attention on the enemy!


    Crash!


    The car windows, unable to withstand the pressure, shattered instantly.


    Rong Dai heard Song Xuechun''s startled cry and felt anxious as well.


    "Get down under the seats!" Jing Chenmanded loudly while searching for targets to attack.


    Rong Dai''s face was taut, and she would pause for a few seconds after each shot.


    After emptying the ten rounds, her arms had already gone numb.


    "Reinforcements have arrived!"


    Jing Chen''s exceptional hearing picked up the sound of gunfire from the highway, and his expression rxed considerably.


    Rong Dai also breathed a slight sigh of relief.


    "Stay here. I''ll go deal with the people in the factory."


    "Don''t move until you receive my order," Jing Chen instructed her.


    This time, Rong Dai responded seriously.


    Her arms were numb, and she no longer had the strength to keep firing.


    After reloading her handgun, Jing Chen swiftly crawled out from under the car, moving as quickly as a ghost into the factory.


    "Xue Chun, are you alright?"


    With no more bullets hitting the car, Rong Dai felt much relieved and immediately checked on Song Xuechun inside.


    Song Xuechuny trembling under the car seat, her skin cut by shattered ss and stinging painfully from the rainwater.


    "I''m fine, Dai. Don''t worry about me, protect yourself."


    Relieved by her response, Rong Dai turned her attention to the noisesing from the factory and the sound of engines from the highway.


    Inside the dpidated factory, Shi Ning was furious!


    She had not expected these people to be so useless!


    "Ning, let''s get out of here quickly, or we won''t be able to escapeter!" Mina urged anxiously.


    Though cruel, shecked Shi Ning''s boldness and was now panicking, desperate to flee the scene as things had not gone ording to their n.


    Shi Ning''s expression was ferocious as she watched Jing Chen take down most of her people in the factory, her resentment burning more intensely!


    She had to kill that wretched Rong Dai!


    "Leave? We can''t leave until she''s dead!"


    She turned and red at Mina, her eyes vicious as she aimed her gun at the other woman''s forehead.

 Chapter 582: This Is Her Oldest Sister.

    <h4>Chapter 582</h4>


    "Rong Dai, what... what are you going to do?"


    Mina''s face changed slightly, looking at Shi Ning in front of her with a ferocious aura of hostility.


    A profound smile appeared on Shi Ning''s face: "What if your mother knew you were killed by Rong Dai''s hands? Would she not kill Rong Dai?"


    Mina''s eyes widened in an instant, but before she could get angry, Shi Ning''s face was already stained with warm blood.


    "Only with you dead will that vile woman be doomed!"


    Shi Ning wiped the blood from her face and said cruelly and ruthlessly, then quickly took cover nearby with a sniper rifle slung over her shoulder.


    Gradually, only the sounds of thunder and rain remained. When Jing Chen arrived at the abandoned factory, he saw that Mina was already dead, and his brow immediately furrowed.


    "Little Dai! Little Dai!"


    An Feiran, still wearing a white suit with bodyguards by her side, didn''t care about her appearance as she rushed towards the riddled vehicle with red-rimmed eyes!


    Rong Dai was still lying under the car waiting for Jing Chen''s orders. Suddenly hearing this heart-wrenching call, her heart tightened!


    This voice... so familiar.


    "Little Dai!"


    Seeing Song Xuechun hiding under the backseat, An Feiran mistook her for Rong Dai, and tears immediately rolled down her flushed eyes.


    Song Xuechun was startled by someone grabbing her and screamed in fright!


    "You''re not Little Dai? Where''s Little Dai?"


    Seeing Song Xuechun''s face, An Feiran became flustered again!


    "Miss An, I''m here."


    Rong Dai crawled out from under the car.


    "You scared me to death! Why must you always worry me like this?"


    An Feiran scolded Rong Dai as she emerged, muddy all over, but still relieved as she pulled her into an embrace.


    She was so frightened on her way here that she almost had a heart attack!


    As Rong Dai heard the scolding, especially seeing An Feiran''s expression, her mind exploded!


    This...


    "Sis... Sister?"


    She widened her eyes in disbelief, her voice trembling.


    She was nervous yet hopeful, her heart pounding wildly, alternating between hot and cold.


    Was this really her sister?


    An Feiran held her tightly, being slightly taller than Rong Dai, but didn''t respond when she heard Rong Dai''s voice.


    "Let me check if you''re hurt anywhere."


    An Feiran immediately examined her head and limbs, only relieved after confirming she was unharmed.


    "Miss An..."


    Rong Dai stared at her urgently, her eyes reddening.


    This was undoubtedly her sister!


    Every gesture and the way she scolded yet cared for her was exactly the same as in her previous life!


    "I''ll exin everythingter, but we must leave here first."


    An Feiran grasped her hand tightly, not rifying anything, but her eyes had already acknowledged the truth.


    Tears welled up in Rong Dai''s eyes as she suddenly burst into loud sobs! Like a child who had found her way home, she clung tightly to An Feiran, refusing to let go!


    This was her sister!


    The sister who loved and cared for her, this was her sister!


    Song Xuechun looked on in bewilderment, wondering what was going on.


    But before she could ask, she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her chest, and a massive gush of fresh blood spurted out!


    She reached out to touch it, feeling the wetness, her vacant gaze towards Rong Dai: "Dai''er..."


    Seeing this, Rong Dai''s eyes widened in an instant!


    "Xuechun!"


    She hurriedly tried to grab her, but Song Xuechun slipped away like an eel, copsing to the ground and convulsing.


    An Feiran''s bodyguards rushed to perform first aid and quickly carried her to the car.


    "Leave this ce first, it''s not safe here!"


    An Feiran urged, the two of them now surrounded by a tight circle of bodyguards.


    "Damn that vile woman! So many people have died for you!"


    Hiding in the shadows, Shi Ning was unsatisfied. After firing that shot, she should have left, but she couldn''t stand it! She peered through the scope again.

 Chapter 583: Never Lose It Again

    <h4>Chapter 583</h4>


    The two sisters, escorted by bodyguards, were preparing to leave in an armored car when suddenly there were sounds of gunfireing from the highway!


    The surrounding bodyguards became alert, exposing the position of the two women, and Shi Ning took the opportunity to pull the trigger!


    Rong Dai clung tightly to An Feiran''s hand, refusing to let go. As soon as the car door opened, An Feiran''s body lurched forward violently, spitting out blood from her mouth!


    "Elder Sister!"


    Rong Dai was terrified, her hair standing on end! Even her voice broke!


    An Feiran''s shoulder was oozing blood, her face contorted in pain, but she still grasped Rong Dai''s clothes and urged, "Get in the car quickly."


    The surrounding bodyguards quickly brought out bulletproof shields to cover them, while searching for the sniper''s position.


    Rong Dai''s eyes turned red instantly!


    The tragic death of her elder sister from her previous life kept reying in her mind.


    Why?!


    Why did the people around her always suffer because of her?!


    "Get my sister away from here!"


    "Give me a gun!"


    Her face full of ferocity, she grabbed a nearby bodyguard''s cor, her beautiful eyes turned blood-red from the killing intent, like a vicious, hungry wolf!


    "Take my sister and my friend to the hospital immediately!!" she ordered fiercely.


    "Little Dai, don''t be reckless, my injury is not life-threatening," An Feiran said, still worrying about Rong Dai''s safety despite the excruciating pain.


    "Huo Ersi wants to capture you, and his men are too much for us to handle."


    Rong Dai turned to look at her, her eyes regaining some softness, but still filled with killing intent and regret.


    "No, Elder Sister."


    "I missed my chance once, I don''t want to miss it again!"


    "Before, I was stupid, I was blind, deceived by others, which led to the ruin of our entire family!"


    "This time, I will not let it go!"


    She spoke with determination, her long-suppressed hatred pouring out from her chest and memory, leaving her with only one thought.


    Even if it costs her life, she must protect her loved ones!


    She cannot lose them again!


    Bang!


    With that, she mmed the car door shut.


    "Mrs. Huo!" Arthur had arrived with his men, and was taken aback by Rong Dai''s fierce expression.


    "Mr. Arthur?"


    "Please have my sister and my friend safely sent to the hospital for treatment. I believe Mr. Arthur has the ability to deal with Huo Ersi''s men."


    She gave Arthur a sidelong nce, her makeup long washed away by the rain.


    The grime was gone, leaving a pale, almost ghostly face, both chilling and beautiful.


    Upon hearing that An Feiran was injured, Arthur''s expression changed instantly.


    "I will make the arrangements."


    "I''m counting on you!"


    Rong Dai nodded, then loaded the magazine, lowered her head to cut her dress with the dagger strapped to her thigh, and took off her high heels.


    "Mrs. Huo, it''s better to let my men handle this," Arthur said, his brow furrowing as he realized her intention to go after the enemy alone.


    When did Eastern women be so fierce?


    Rong Dai pursed her lips and gave him an icy look. "This is my business, I don''t need your interference. I still have people with me."


    "Your task now is to send my people to the hospital and deal with Huo Ersi''s men!"


    With that, she had a bodyguard with a shield escort her into the abandoned factory.


    "Have you lost your mind?! Why did youe in here?!" Jing Chen was checking for any remaining threats when he saw Rong Dai and his face turned ck with anger.


    Rong Dai checked her gun while giving him a cold sideways nce. "You have failed in your duty!"


    "There''s still a sniper in the factory, and he has harmed the most important person in my life! I want him dead!"


    Her hatred was unconcealed!


    Jing Chen frowned, taken aback. "There shouldn''t be any snipers left."


    "But he has harmed the most important person to me!"


    "Tell me where you haven''t checked yet?"


    Rong Dai fixed her bloodshot eyes on him, and Jing Chen felt a chill run down his spine for no apparent reason.

 Chapter 584: The Battle of You and Me

    <h4>Chapter 584</h4>


    Jing Chen instinctively looked up at the second floor of the abandoned factory, where there seemed to be a small tform.


    Seeing his gaze, Rong Dai understood everything.


    "Don''t do anything reckless!"


    Jing Chen was terrified when he saw she was going up there!


    If anything happened to this woman, Huo Shao Ting would y him alive!


    "If you want toe,e. If not, leave. I can handle this!"


    Rong Dai said coldly, the image of her elder sister being shot and crashing into the car door burned into her mind. How could she let this go?!


    Helplessly, Jing Chen then got tear gas from the bodyguards escorting her and went ahead to clear the path.


    The small tform was narrow, and with signs of demolition, rubble was scattered everywhere.


    Seeing Rong Dai stepping on the rubble without a flinch, Jing Chen simply remained silent.


    He had no idea what trauma this seemingly gentle woman had been through to be so fierce and intimidating.


    Bang!


    Just as they reached the stairs, bullets whizzed past their heads.


    Bang bang!


    Two more shots.


    "She''s out of bullets."


    Jing Chen listened intently, and after about ten seconds without any shots, he made his assessment.


    Rong Dai nced at the stairs, her gaze falling on the tear gas in his hand.


    Jing Chen understood and immediately threw the tear gas up.


    Soon, they heard someone coughing.


    Rong Dai''s eyes narrowed, recognizing the voice!


    "Rong Dai, you really have a thick skin. Even this can''t kill you!"


    Shi Ning was forced out of the small tform, her eyes streaming with tears.


    But her gaze towards Rong Dai remained fierce.


    "It''s you!"


    Rong Dai was shocked, but even more outraged!


    So close!


    Her elder sister almost died at her hands!


    And Xue Chun too!


    They did nothing wrong, all because of her own damned caution and mercy back then!


    They were paying for her mistakes!


    Rong Dai was furious, her gaze as sharp as an unsheathed dagger!


    "Looks like you really care about those two. But who knows if they''ll even make it to the hospital?"


    "Rong Dai, I''m already ruined, so you won''t have it easy either."


    Shi Ning sat on the steps, tears flowing uncontrobly, but her harsh words didn''t hold back.


    Then she threw down the sniper rifle, now out of bullets.


    She drew a knife, challenging Rong Dai with her gaze and ncing at Jing Chen, "Dare to take me on?"


    "This is between you and me. Isn''t that what you like, being fair?"


    "Let him go, that would be fair, right?"


    Shi Ning''s smile was sinister, tinged with cruelty, vastly different from her usual meek persona.


    Rong Dai looked at Jing Chen, her voice cold, "You go down."


    Jing Chen stared at her, wanting to ask if she had lost her mind, to trust such a desperate person?


    But before he could speak, he saw Rong Dai swiftly and urately shoot!


    One shot straight into Shi Ning''s palm!


    Such precision!


    Was this really her first time holding a gun?


    Shi Ning''s knife dropped, her palm now a gaping hole, her expression contorted in pain as she red at Rong Dai in agony and hatred, "You''re cheating?!"


    This damn bitch!


    Rong Dai immediately sneered, aiming at Shi Ning''s other hand, "Shi Ning, you''re not a good person."


    "So why should I believe your words?"


    If she did, she would be the biggest fool in the world!


    "You!"


    Shi Ning was enraged, but as Rong Dai approached with her gun, a hint of fear crept into her heart.


    "Rong Dai, I surrender, you have no right to harm me further!"

 Chapter 585: Burnt to Ashes

    <h4>Chapter 585</h4>


    "No right to do that?"


    Rong Dai let out a coldugh and fired another shot at Shi Ning''s other hand!


    A cruel and icy smile crept across her face!


    The mere thought of what had just happened almost caused her to lose her elder sister again, if only by a hair''s breadth!


    It was like a venomous thorn piercing her heart!


    She would not allow it, she absolutely would not permit it!


    Shi Ning screamed in agony as she tumbled down the stairs, her face cut open by shattered stones, fresh blood oozing out, making her appear particrly grotesque and terrifying.


    Rong Dai''s gaze fell upon a pistol that had fallen from Shi Ning''s body, and she let out a coldugh, "This is what you mean by having no right?"


    Discarding the sniper rifle, yet hiding other firearms on her person, waiting for her to present herself?


    "Shi Ning, you underestimate me."


    "I said, whoever dares to harm those close to me, I will make sure they wish they were dead!"


    Rong Dai walked barefoot towards her, her jade feet stomping mercilessly on Shi Ning''s cheek, causing her face to contort in pain.


    She looked down at Shi Ning, chambering a round and firing at her shoulder de, fresh blood sttering onto her face, her once pristine features now appearing eerily ghastly.


    "Ah��you vile woman! How dare you?!"


    Shi Ning screamed in agony, her whole body feeling as though it had been hammered!


    The immense pain threatened to tear her apart!


    Yet the most galling thing was that her hands had been rendered useless, her arms numb with only pain.


    Her shattered shoulder de felt as though her entire scalp would burst open!


    "You''re trying to kill me, what''s there to dare not do?"


    Rong Dai''s smile was cold and ominous, her words dripping with bone-chilling iciness.


    Outside, the thunder roared, and rain poured heavily.


    Jing Chen watched this scene unfold, somewhat regretting why he didn''t go down earlier.


    He had thought Huo Shao Ting''s wife would be some soft, easily swayed goddess-like figure, never imagining that when provoked, she could be more ferocious than a mother tiger!


    "Shi Ning, I was once lenient with you, did you really think I was an easy target?"


    "The child I lost, even if it was due to my own body''s condition, had it not been for your and Yang Yue''s abduction scheme, my child might have still had a glimmer of hope."


    "Shi Ning, you take human life far too lightly."


    "So, your life is not worth cherishing or pitying either."


    "If King Yama won''t take you, I will."


    Her expression was icy as she pressed the gun''s muzzle against Shi Ning''s chest, right where her heart was.


    "No��"


    Bang!


    Along with Shi Ning''s horrified scream came a thunderous roar from the horizon, the lightning shing unnaturally frightening.


    Rong Dai''s expression was cial as she calmly withdrew her jade foot.


    She nced at Jing Chen, "Scared witless?"


    Jing Chen snapped out of his daze and quickly shook his head.


    Not scared witless, but stunned, that was true.


    He truly hadn''t expected Rong Dai to take action.


    "She deserved to die."


    Rong Dai''s gaze was tinged with malice, her words chillingly cold.


    In her previous life, had she gained this rity earlier, how could her family have been so viciously ughtered?


    "Will you handle the rest?"


    Jing Chen nodded, "That''s no problem, even if it goes to court for trial, they won''t be able to convict you. The Brocade Embroidery Workshop will likely be dismantled."


    "Our weapons were all approved, so there won''t be any issues. We were just acting in self-defense."


    He hadn''t been mistaken earlier, Shi Ning clearly had no intention of letting Rong Dai off, still concealing a gun to potentially deliver a fatal shot to Rong Dai.


    It was fortunate that Rong Dai didn''t blindly believe Shi Ning''s lies, otherwise it would be Rong Dai lying there now.


    Rong Dai listened quietly as he spoke, tearing a piece of cloth from her dress to wipe the blood off her face.


    "No, Arthur will handle those matters. I want you to take care of Shi Ning''s body."


    Jing Chen was taken aback, not quite understanding her meaning.


    She turned her head, her sharp gaze fixed on him, "Burn it to ashes, understand?"

 Chapter 586: She鈥檚 not in Line

    <h4>Chapter 586</h4>


    Jing Chen was stunned for a second. Although he often dealt with desperate people, at most he would only beat them until they couldn''t take care of themselves or throw them in jail to repent.


    After all, this was now a society ruled byw, not an authoritarian regime.


    Otherwise, what was the point of thews established by the state?


    "This probably won''t work. She no longer poses any threat to you now."


    "Moreover, even if this matter goes to court, you acted in self-defense."


    "But burning the body, that''s a crime."


    Jing Chen had to exin to her, his heart also startled by the depth of the woman''s hatred.


    How deep must her grievance be to desecrate someone''s remains even after their death?


    Rong Dai carefully wiped the blood off her face and neck, listening to his exnation calmly and quietly.


    "Are you done?" She turned her head and stared at Jing Chen with cold eyes. "If you''re done, it''s my turn."


    "I''m d you''re aw-abiding citizen, but if I don''t turn her to ashes, I feel like one day you might run into her again somewhere."


    "You should know that you were present here today. This woman is vicious; she won''t let you off the hook."


    "Mr. Jing, I''m doing this for your own good."


    "I haven''t gone insane to that degree yet. In this world, there are only two people whom I want to destroypletely."


    "Shi Ning doesn''t even make the list."


    She paused, the viciousness in her beautiful eyes dissipating, reced by a darkness as deep as an abyss.


    She didn''t know what happened to Yang Wanwan''s body, but that was undoubtedly Xin Ziqing''s doing.


    If things were as terrifying as she suspected, then she couldn''t leave Shi Ning''s body behind either.


    Otherwise, given Shi Yue''s limitless indulgence and tolerance for Shi Ning, if Xin Ziqing revealed something like this to Shi Yue, Shi Yue might dare to try it.


    One should know that a parent''s spoiling of their child is a form of poison.


    Shi Yue knew Shi Ning was beyond saving, yet she stubbornly persisted.


    Shi Ning''s current state was half due to Shi Yue''s doing.


    "There are some things you don''t know yet. When you find out, you''ll understand why I have to do this."


    She said calmly, then went downstairs.


    Jing Chen was dazed for a moment. Although he didn''t understand Rong Dai''s words, seeing her serious and solemn expression, he gritted his teeth and resigned himself to cleaning up the aftermath.


    When Rong Dai went downstairs, Zong Che and Ji Zheng had also rushed over.


    Both of them were startled when they saw Rong Dai''s appearance.


    Rong Dai looked at Ji Zheng with a deep gaze. Ji Zheng was still puzzled, but when he saw Jing Chen carrying Shi Ning''s body down, his pupils constricted sharply!


    "I did it."


    "You''re awyer. If you want to prosecute, I don''t mind."


    Rong Dai remained calm.


    Zong Che was stunned, and Jing Chen quickly came forward to exin the situation.


    Ji Zheng''s clenched fist loosened, his eyes filled withplex emotions.


    No matter how much he despised her, this was still his blood-rted sister after all.


    But he couldn''t forget Shu Ruo''s death, or the child in Shu Ruo''s womb - that child was even more closely rted to him than Shi Ning.


    "I won''t defend her. She brought this upon herself."


    Ji Zheng regained his usualposure in an instant.


    "What are you going to do now? Arthur can handle these matters. The Bameng Media issue is over."


    "Someone else will deal with the rest."


    Ji Zheng looked at her. Suddenly, he felt like he couldn''t quite understand this girl anymore.


    She was only twenty-three years old. In his eyes, even though she was married to Huo Shao Ting, she was still just a girl at most.


    "I still have some things to take care of on my end, so I won''t be going back for now."


    "But there is one thing I need you to do, although it''s cruel, it should be legal."


    She remembered Jing Chen''s words. Asking him to do that was indeed putting him in a difficult position.


    Ji Zheng frowned at her. Rong Dai opened the car door to get in, her voice calm: "Send her for cremation. This is thest bit of kindness I''m showing her."


    Otherwise, she would make sure the Ji family couldn''t even get her ashes!

 Chapter 587: What Other Face

    <h4>Chapter 587</h4>


    "If you find it difficult..."


    "Not difficult at all."


    Ji Zheng answered her calmly, then he and Jing Chen went to cremate Shi Ning together.


    "Song Xuechun is already being treated at the hospital. Let me send you back to the hotel for you to freshen up first."


    "There''s a clean jacket in the backseat, put that on for now."


    As they got into the car, Zong Che instructed her through the rearview mirror.


    In his impression, he had never seen Rong Dai so fiercely aggressive, covered in sharp thorns that kept anyone from getting close.


    Rong Dai did not respond to him, simply putting on the jacket and staring out the window at the pouring rain.


    Her gaze was darkly haunting, and in the corner where Zong Che could not see, her hands were trembling.


    Zong Che escorted her back to the hotel and stood guard outside her room until she had finished freshening up.


    Rong Dai spent a long time in the bathroom, crying for a long while.


    She did not regret what she had done today, even if she had to do it all over again, she would absolutely not hesitate!


    She also did not expect to truly see her elder sister again.


    Thinking of An Feiran, her heart felt like it was being cut by a knife. The joy was still there, but overshadowed by apprehension and fear.


    She had always been afraid to revisit the past, especially anything rted to the Rong Mansion.


    Because she felt guilty in her heart.


    She had previously asked Huo Shao Ting if there was a possibility of this happening, and he had extinguished the hope in her heart with his answer.


    But today, it had truly happened!


    Her elder sister was still alive!


    She wanted to go see her, but she was too scared.


    In her previous life, her elder sister was so outstanding, so elegant and noble.


    If not for her, her elder sister could have had a better husband, and her life would have been smooth sailing, peaceful and harmonious, a lifetime of sess.


    But all of this was ruined by her own foolishness!


    What face did she have to meet her sister?


    Zong Che waited outside for a long time without seeing her open the door, so he finally rang the doorbell.


    Hearing the doorbell, Rong Dai was pulled back to her senses. She patted her face, "I''ll be right there."


    She then hurriedly grabbed a jacket to put on before going to open the door.


    "Are you alright?"


    Seeing her poorplexion, Zong Che asked with concern.


    Rong Dai seemed extremely cold, pulling her jacket tighter around herself as she shook her head, "I''m fine, let''s go to the hospital."


    "Which hospital are Miss An and Xuechun at?"


    Even if her elder sister were to scold her, she had to go.


    She could no longer avoid or shrink back into her shell from the past.


    "Why don''t you rest at the hotel? I can go check on them."


    "Don''t worry, it''s very safe at the hotel, nothing else will happen."


    Seeing her demeanor was still poor, Zong Che thought about how this woman had to experience such a terrifying and dangerous situation, so it was understandable for her to still be shaken.


    Rong Dai shook her head, but a wave of dizziness washed over her.


    Before she could say anything, she copsed to the ground.


    ...


    "Sir."


    Back home, Zhang Assistant received a call from Zong Che, and his heart nearly leapt out of his mouth!


    Huo Shao Ting was handling some matters, but he had been restless and agitated all day, with an unsettling feeling that something would happen.


    "Speak."


    Zhang Assistant swallowed hard, not daring to look up at him.


    "Zong Che called. The missus was ambushed in a shooting on her way back from Duke Bertelen''s Mansion."


    "It was Huo Ersi''s people who set the trap. The missus''s ssmate was seriously injured and hospitalized. As for the missus herself..."


    Bang!


    Huo Shao Ting suddenly mmed his fist on the table, causing the documents to tremble.


    "But the missus is unharmed, probably just in shock. She''s resting at the hospital now!"


    Zhang Assistant was so frightened he started shaking, feeling the prickling sensation on his scalp as he hurriedly reported.


    "Book a flight."


    Huo Shao Ting''s eyes turned icy cold, his long slender fingers clenched into a fist, his lean and chiseled face bearing a sinister expression.


    "Already booked, it leaves in an hour. Should we head to the airport now?"


    Zhang Assistant inquired. As soon as he received the news, he had promptly arranged everything.


    With such a major incident, even if Huo Corporation copsed today, the boss would definitely go to Paris!

 Chapter 588: She doesn鈥檛 Want to Love Anymore

    <h4>Chapter 588</h4>


    #Rong Dai Encounters Gunfire Abroad#


    Huo Shao Ting had just boarded the ne when news broke on Chinese social media!


    The news came with a video, and even though the video didn''t show Rong Dai, this news skyrocketed to the top of the trending list in just a few minutes.


    The people at Magnolia Fragrance still hadn''t received a call from Zong Che when they saw this news, and they were all equally dumbfounded!


    Huo Mei Shu read thements under thepany''s ount, with some people praying for Rong Dai''s safety, while others were gloating over her misfortune.


    But most were cursing and kicking her while she was down.


    "Do these people have no humanity at all?!"


    Huo Mei Shu was almost furious enough to explode!


    If it weren''t for Shi Qing holding her back and calming her down, Huo Mei Shu would have smashed theputer!


    "Don''t be hasty, we have Zong Che there, let''s wait for his updates."


    "Nian Zhi, Mei Shu, you two handle the normal PR, the rest of us will wait for news from France."


    "I''ll ask my husband to inquire about the situation."


    Ran Jing was older, and before Rong Dai left for France, she had handed over thepany''s affairs to her and Lu Nianzhi.


    Although news and public opinion had been constant during this period, Ran Jing and Lu Nianzhi were able to handle it and make decisions promptly.


    Lu Nianzhi''s state hadn''t been greattely, making frequent mistakes at work, but fortunately Ran Jing was there to support her, so she trusted her.


    "I''m going to beat the crap out of those loudmouths!"


    Huo Mei Shu''s anger red, and she cursed viciously while preparing to wage a battle!


    "Mei Shu, I think you should deal with that person outside first."


    Tang Han nudged a chair over to her, gesturing with her chin for Huo Mei Shu to look out the window.


    There stood Gu Chengyan, holding bags of snacks, like a pitiful second male lead, gazing longingly at their office from the courtyard of Magnolia Fragrance.


    Huo Mei Shu nced at him, her small face tense.


    "I''ll be right back."


    She pushed Tang Han''s chair aside and went out with a grim expression.


    Seeing here out, Gu Chengyan''s handsome and noble face showed a faint smile, and he walked up to her with the bags of snacks.


    "These are all your favorites. If it''s not enough, I can go get more."


    Gu Chengyan felt miserable.


    He had angered the littledy, and this littledy had a fiery temper and held grudges.


    She had been holding this grudge for a long time. He had solved the issue with Gu Mingci.


    But the littledy''s temper had red up, and she was not easily appeased.


    He had just returned from a performance abroad, and the littledy had blocked him everywhere, so he couldn''t even call her.


    As soon as he returned to the country, he hurried over to coax her.


    But the littledy had grown up, and she was not so easily coaxed.


    Huo Mei Shu stared at him with a seemingly calm expression.


    Thinking of that night when he had shouted at her, and even when she dragged her luggage and left, he didn''t say a word to stop her.


    Her heart ached, and she felt wronged!


    She admitted she was being childish!


    But that had always been her nature!


    She loved wholeheartedly, and when she didn''t love, she didn''t love at all!


    She didn''t like any emotional rtionship to be watered down.


    This was the third time he hade to find her since that night she left.


    She looked down at the bulging bags of snacks, and couldn''t help but recall how attentive he had been to Gu Mingci.


    What did he think of her?


    A stray cat or dog on the street?


    When she loved, she could put him at the center of her heart.


    But now, she didn''t want to love anymore.


    She couldn''t love this man anymore.


    Dreams and reality were just that cruel. When you couldn''t touch or get what you desired, it seemed beautiful and dreamy.


    But once you came into contact with it, you realized it was nothing special after all.


    Each of us was just an ordinary person, unable to escape the conventions of the world in the end.

 Chapter 589: I Don鈥檛 Like Music

    <h4>Chapter 589</h4>


    Huo Mei Shu''s expression remained calm, her mind shing through countless scenes from romance dramas on how to respond.


    "I don''t eat snacks anymore."


    In the end, she looked up at him, her voice faint.


    Looking at Gu Chengyan, the pain she had endured during this period seemed a little ridiculous.


    There had never been a beginning between them.


    It was just her own misunderstanding, what was there to resent?


    Gu Chengyan''s heart tightened, his handsome face slightly tense, his slender and powerful palm instinctively grabbing her wrist and asking, "Then what would you like to eat?"


    Huo Mei Shu looked at his hand gripping her wrist, his hand still as good-looking as before, but its temperature was still as cold.


    She had grown a lot during this period.


    She liked Magnolia Fragrance, she liked her sister-inw, she liked all her colleagues here.


    For so many years, she had been chasing after his footsteps.


    Even if she was doing things she didn''t like, as long as she thought she could get a little closer to him, she was satisfied.


    That sweetness and joy was something she created for herself, not something he brought.


    "Let go of me, go to the cafe across the street, I don''t want to disturb my colleagues'' work."


    Her expression was calmly terrifying, her words devoid of warmth.


    Gu Chengyan frowned, "Okay."


    Afterwards, they went to the cafe across from Magnolia Fragrance, one after the other, and sat in a booth.


    "An Americano, please."


    After sitting down, Huo Mei Shu ordered a cup of coffee.


    If it had been in the past, she would have catered to Gu Chengyan''s preferences, as she was familiar with all his likes.


    As long as it made him happy, she was willing to do anything.


    But during this period of intense work, busy with thepany''s affairs, busy fighting with those keyboard warriors online, her attention was dispersed.


    She gradually became aware that her kind of liking was pathological, and unconsciously made a change.


    Gu Chengyan''s eyes narrowed slightly, what had the little girl gone through during this time? How had she changed so much?


    "Mr. Gu, what did you want to see me about?"


    Huo Mei Shu didn''t notice these subtle expressions on his face, after taking a sip of her coffee, she directly asked him.


    Her mind was now focused on her work, she had found what she wanted to do.


    She had followed his footsteps for so many years, she was really exhausted.


    She didn''t want to chase anymore.


    This was a solo journey for her, and now she wanted to stop.


    Gu Chengyan looked at her, a sense of unease spreading in his heart, as if something was about to slip away from the bottom of his heart.


    "I''ve investigated the matter with Ming Ci."


    "What happened was my fault, I made a mistake."


    "I''m sorry, can you forgive me?"


    "Thepany can''t be without you, I can give you time to settle things on the Magnolia Fragrance side."


    Huo Mei Shu listened to his words, her eyes turning red despite her efforts not to cry.


    She had liked him so cautiously for so many years, and because she was always afraid of losing him, she didn''t dare to confess or face her feelings.


    But she had forgotten that she had never had him in the first ce!


    She turned her head to look out the window, forcing the tears back in!


    She would never be so humble again, it was too stifling!


    A few secondster, she turned her head back to look at Gu Chengyan, still the male god she had once adored.


    But unfortunately, her heart no longer wanted to chase that dream that didn''t belong to her.


    "Mr. Gu, I have already resigned from yourpany, I am now an employee of Magnolia Fragrance."


    "And I don''t like music."


    She looked at him, her gaze clear and defiant.


    This was probably the most vicious thing she had ever said to him, right?


    "I''ve already forgotten about Miss Gu''s situation."


    "If there''s nothing else, I hope you won''t disturb my work in the future."


    Because I don''t want you to be in my world anymore.

 Chapter 590: Don鈥檛 Bother Me Again

    <h4>Chapter 590</h4>


    Gu Chengyan immediately frowned, looking into her eyes, his voice deepening as he questioned, "Say what you just said again."


    Huo Mei Shu felt a twinge of fear when faced with his intense gaze. But then she remembered the injustice she had suffered, and that she was nothing to him!


    Bringing snacks to apologize, she had never seen such a stingy apology!


    Her temper red up too!


    "I said, I don''t like music."


    "I request that Mr. Gu does not disturb my work again. Shall I repeat it for you, Mr. Gu?"


    Gu Chengyan red at her, unable to suppress a sh of anger in his eyes!


    "Fine!"


    With that, he turned and left.


    Huo Mei Shu was momentarily stunned, watching his back as he walked away without looking back. A few secondster, she couldn''t help but shake her head with a bitter smile.


    Thank goodness.


    Thank goodness she hadn''t harbored any hope in her heart.


    When Gu Chengyan reached the garage, he was so angry that he kicked his beloved car, sitting in the driver''s seat and sulking!


    He had thought the girl was just throwing a tantrum, but he never expected her to say such things?!


    What did she mean she didn''t like music?


    Then what had she been learning music for all these years?


    To feed the dogs?


    He could ept the girl''s unreasonable tantrums, but he couldn''t ept her so casually denying something she loved.


    Especially music!


    Huo Mei Shu waited until she couldn''t see anyone, then stared at the coffee in front of her with a wry smile.


    In this rtionship, she had been the only one performing a monologue all along.


    What right did she have to make any demands of him?


    But her heart still ached, still hurt!


    After sitting still for a few minutes, she finished her coffee and returned to Magnolia Fragrance.


    Tang Han and Shi Qing noticed her gloomy expression and their curiosity burned, but they suppressed it.


    Neither Huo Mei Shu nor Gu Chengyan noticed that at the neighboring table, Gu Mingci was sitting alone, having heard their entire conversation.


    Of course, Gu Mingci was not happy about it!


    She had been by Gu Chengyan''s side longer than Huo Mei Shu, and such a good man could only belong to her!


    Why couldn''t Huo Mei Shu just be a proper richdy? Why did she have topete with her?


    But she was d today, Huo Mei Shu seemed to havee to her senses!


    But this wasn''t enough, she had to add some more fuel to the fire, to make Huo Mei Shu give uppletely!


    Huo Mei Shu worked until closing time, but Magnolia Fragrance didn''t receive any news from the French side.


    However, knowing that Huo Shao Ting had gone to Paris, the employees were relieved.


    If even the big boss couldn''t resolve the issue, there was no point in them worrying, it was better to steady thepany and wait patiently.


    Huo Mei Shu returned home to find only Wang Ma and Li Shu there.


    Due to the incident with Yin Zhongjun, which had caused turmoil in their family, she was worried the olddy would get bored being alone at home.


    So she and her second brother had arranged for the olddy to go on a trip. Because of the overseas incident involving her sister-inw, the drama Guohou that was originally scheduled to air during the summer had been indefinitely postponed and reced by another show.


    Her second brother had been extremely busy during this period, and she hadn''t even seen his shadow.


    Exhausted physically and mentally, Huo Mei Shu ate only a couple of bites for dinner before heading upstairs.


    After washing up, she flopped onto the bed and opened herptop to check the public rtions results for the day.


    Since there was no relevant information in the video, the public rtions had been rtively sessful.


    She closed herptop andy sprawled on the bed, zoning out.


    Her phone pinged with a new message, and she added the person without a second thought.


    Little did she know, as soon as she added them, they sent her a photo.


    In the photo, Gu Mingci had her arms around Gu Chengyan''s neck, smiling radiantly, her lips almost touching his cheek.


    The two people in the photo looked intimately close, simply like lovers.


    After sending the photo, the person sent a message: My brother is kind and doesn''t want to hurt you, but we''re already together!


    Huo Mei Shu felt a stabbing pain in her heart!


    Her eyes instantly reddened, and the grievances and pain she had suppressed in her heart exploded, as she cried bitterly while wrapped in her nket!

 Chapter 591: He鈥檚 Too Much

    <h4>Chapter 591</h4>


    Mrs. Wang was outside listening to Huo Mei Shu''s earth-shattering cries, frantically pacing back and forth, until she finally called Lu Nianzhi.


    Lu Nianzhi came over after receiving the call. Of course, she knew about the situation between Huo Mei Shu and Gu Chengyan. However, she was also dealing with a mess on her end and had no energy to give Huo Mei Shu advice.


    Unexpectedly, the poor girl, who had been holding on for so many days, finally couldn''t take it anymore.


    "Mrs. Wang, how is Mei Shu doing?"


    "She''s crying her heart out in her room. I don''t know how to console her, so I had to call you, Miss Lu, toe over."


    "I''ll go check on her. It''s alright, you and Uncle Li should go rest early."


    Lu Nianzhi took the room key from Mrs. Wang and went upstairs to see Huo Mei Shu after a brief reminder.


    "Mei Shu?"


    As soon as she entered the room, she could hear Huo Mei Shu''s heart-wrenching sobs, which made her feel sorry for her.


    They were both silly women, so stubborn.


    Huo Mei Shu heard someonee in and opened her swollen red eyes to look at Lu Nianzhi. "Sister Nian Zhi, why are you here?"


    She cried so bitterly that her tears and mucus had mixed together.


    Lu Nianzhi felt pity and helplessness as she handed Huo Mei Shu some tissues to wipe her tears.


    "What''s going on?"


    If she hadn''t asked, it would have been fine, but as soon as she did, Huo Mei Shu couldn''t hold back and burst into loud wails again!


    "He... he went too far!"


    After crying for a while until she couldn''t cry anymore, her eyes hurt terribly. Huo Mei Shu took out her phone and showed Lu Nianzhi some photos.


    The other person had sent several more afterwards, but Huo Mei Shu was too absorbed in her crying to notice them.


    Lu Nianzhi was also overwhelmed. Her own love life hadn''t been sorted out either, and she was almost driven crazy by Xu Chuan and Ling Yan during this period!


    She had been making frequent mistakes at work. If it weren''t for Sister Jing keeping an eye on her, she wouldn''t have been able to ount for anything when Rong Dai returned.


    "Do you want to go for a drink?"


    "Yes!"


    Huo Mei Shu nodded fiercely, wiping away her snot and tears with her hand, and bounced off the bed to change her clothes and put on makeup.


    "Sister Nian Zhi, is this ce safe?"


    Although Huo Mei Shu loved to have fun, she had never been to ces like nightclubs, so she was a bit apprehensive when they reached the entrance.


    Thinking about how her own mother had gotten into trouble because of drinking, she hesitated again.


    Lu Nianzhi knew her concerns and patted her hand reassuringly. "This ce is owned by my friend. There won''t be any trouble."


    They say that women who have failed in love can drink the most. Despite being inexperienced drinkers, these two ordered a whole table of drinks and downed them one after another.


    In less than half an hour, they were bothpletely wasted, sprawled on the table like limp shrimps, mumbling nonsense from their mouths.


    When You Wen saw the two in such a state, she knew a bit about Lu Nianzhi''s situation, but what was going on with this youngdy from the Huo family?


    Seeing that they were both drunk, You Wen had no choice but to ask someone to carry them upstairs to her room to rest.


    Lu Nianzhi was rtively better, only shouting a few words before calming down.


    But Huo Mei Shu threw a tantrum!


    "Don''t touch me! I''m not drunk!"


    "If anyone touches me, I''ll... I''ll smash your head!"


    She could barely stand, yet she still wanted to grab a liquor bottle, looking ferocious and menacing.


    "Sis You Wen, there''s no way to handle this."


    A few bodyguards had already been scratched by her and were afraid of the liquor bottle in Huo Mei Shu''s hand. No one wanted to be hit by that.


    You Wen frowned and had to ask Lu Nianzhi, but the intoxicated Lu Nianzhi only mumbled a few words: "Find... find Gu Chengyan... don''t bother me."


    You Wen was both annoyed and amused. Although she wasn''t a big shot, she knew this Gu Chengyan.


    Without hesitation, You Wen made the call.

 Chapter 592: I鈥檓 gonna Fix It Myself

    <h4>Chapter 592</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting arrived in Paris at 4 AM local time. As soon as he got off the ne, he went to the hospital to see Rong Dai.


    Seeing Rong Dai lying in the hospital bed with an IV drip, his heart ached painfully.


    Afraid of waking Rong Dai up, he carefully tucked her nket before leaving the ward.


    "What exactly happened?" His face was gloomy, and the calmer his words, the more anxious Zhang Assistant and Jing Chen felt.


    Jing Chen was present at the scene, so he recounted the events. When he heard that Rong Dai had actually fired a gun, Huo Shao Ting felt like his heart was being brutally twisted into a knot!


    "Where is Huo Ersi?"


    His gaze was sharp and vicious as he unbuttoned his suit jacket and pulled off his tie.


    "Arthur''s men are restraining him, and the police have intervened."


    Jing Chen wanted to remind him as much as possible, but he knew that no one could stop Huo Shao Ting from doing what he wanted to do.


    If Huo Ersi hadn''t been too hasty, perhaps this wouldn''t have happened today.


    Huo Shao Ting gave him a cold, vicious look, and Jing Chen immediately fell silent, but he didn''t dare follow him.


    With Rong Dai in the hospital, if anything else happened, he might end up as a gravestone.


    "Have Arthure see me."


    After leaving the hospital where it was still raining heavily outside, Huo Shao Ting coldly instructed Zhang Assistant.


    Zhang Assistant didn''t dare hesitate and immediately contacted Arthur.


    Arthur had only left the hospital after An Feiran''s condition stabilized, but Huo Ersi had already made his move early on, causing Arthur''s men to fail one after another.


    Although the police intervened, this was a battle between two powerful forces!


    So the police intervention didn''t have much effect.


    Arthur didn''t expect Huo Shao Ting toe to Paris, but considering Huo Ersi dared to do this, he must have been confident about Rong Dai''s importance to Huo Shao Ting.


    However, Huo Ersi didn''t expect Miss An from Brocade Embroidery Workshop to intervene and cause trouble.


    "Where is he?"


    Upon seeing Arthur, Huo Shao Ting didn''t even lift his brows.


    Arthur had seen Huo Shao Ting like this once before, but that was over ten years ago.


    Back then, Huo Shao Ting was still young, but it was also then that heid the foundation for his business empire.


    Such a manmands both admiration and fear.


    Huo Ersi had benefited from him for so many years, but he must have be greedy.


    Huo Ersi is an ambitious man, but he didn''t expect the other party to be so eager to die.


    "At the factory, there are still quite a few men left. The police don''t dare intervene too much."


    Arthur exined. He had already changed into a fresh suit. This kind of negotiation could no longer be resolved through violence.


    "Have the police withdraw, I''ll handle it myself."


    His voice was calm, but it carried a bone-chilling chill that made the temperature drop by several degrees, sending shivers down everyone''s spine.


    Zhang Assistant impassively brought over a box and opened it in front of him.


    Huo Shao Ting''s handsome face was stern as he calmly assembled the gun.


    Seeing him act so calmly yet with such lethal intent, Arthur nodded and left with his bodyguards to meet with the police.


    "Sir, you should put on a bulletproof vest."


    Seeing that he was about to leave, Zhang Assistant tightened his grip on the bulletproof vest in his hand.


    Huo Shao Ting paused mid-step and nced at the bulletproof vest with his narrow phoenix eyes before retracting his foot. "Alright."


    If it were before, he wouldn''t have worn it - that was his confidence.


    But now he has a young wife, he must learn to protect himself so that he can protect her.


    Relieved by his agreement, Zhang Assistant quickly helped him put on the bulletproof vest.

 Chapter 593: There will Be No More You

    <h4>Chapter 593</h4>


    Tonight in Paris was freezing cold, with relentless pouring rain that had not stopped since the previous day.


    Pitter-pattering raindrops sshed, with thunderps drowning out the most dreadful sounds of this dark night.


    Arthur and Zhang Assistant both dared not intervene, even though their umbres were up, their clothes were drenched through.


    The two waited for half an hour in front of the factory before Huo Shao Ting finally emerged.


    His suit was soaked, his usually impably groomed hair clinging to his knife-sharp features.


    An aura of lethal menace, brimming with vicious malice!


    The blood stains on his white shirt were washed out by the rain, blurring into a bloodied garment.


    He pursed his thin lips and walked over to the two men.


    "Make sure the prison takes good care of him, I want him to suffer a fate worse than death!"


    The man''s voice was icy cold,ced with cruel viciousness, his deep phoenix-like eyes ck as pitch, radiating a chilling glint.


    As he spoke, he tossed his gun into a box held by a nearby bodyguard.


    The gun barrel met the rainwater, wisps of white vapor trailing from it.


    He took off his suit jacket and bulletproof vest, eyes nting towards Arthur.


    "You did well this time, you can take over Huo Ersi''s assets."


    Arthur respectfully replied, "Thank you, Mr. Huo."


    "I''ve prepared a hotel for you, why don''t you go rest first, Mr. Huo? I''ll take care of the remaining matters."


    Although he coveted Huo Ersi''s possessions, Arthur had always been cautious by nature.


    If Huo Shao Ting did not bring it up, he would not dare use this as leverage.


    A man like Huo Shao Ting, who had expanded the Huo empire to such formidable heights, was not someone Arthur dared to provoke.


    Such a person only did what he wanted or did not want to do.


    Any threats would only enrage him and prompt his retaliation.


    Huo Ersi had made a foolish decision this time.


    "No need," Huo Shao Ting coldly refused, stripping off his bloodied white shirt and putting on a clean one handed to him by Zhang Assistant before getting into his car and leaving without a backward nce.


    It was only after Huo''s taillights had disappeared that Arthur led his men into the factory.


    The sight of Huo Ersi inside was gruesome - even a man like Arthur, no stranger to the underworld''s brutality, could not help but feel a chill run down his spine.


    Huo Ersi bore no gunshot wounds, but the injuries on his body were as severe as if he had been shot - all inflicted by fists!


    "Tsk, tsk, Huo Ersi, you finally met your match today."


    "I thought I''d have to wait much longer for this day."


    Arthur squatted beside him, only Huo Ersi''s eyeballs still able to move.


    The once over six-foot tall figure nowy on the ground like a lump of mud.


    "As they say in China, you were just unlucky."


    "Paris will have no more figures like you from now on."


    Arthur shook his head with a lightugh. The rise and fall of empires, be they business or otherwise, all followed the same pattern.


    Let alone people like them whose hands were not exactly clean - they especially had to be wary of formidable figures like Huo Shao Ting.


    ...


    Huo Shao Ting returned to the hotel, showered to cleanse himself of any remaining traces, and changed into a fresh set of clothes before going to the hospital to see Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai had not yet regained consciousness. Seeing how much thinner she had be during this time in Paris pained Huo Shao Ting''s heart deeply.


    Even though Huo Ersi had been taken care of, the vicious fury within him was still difficult to quell.


    If his beloved wife had not been fortunate yesterday, he could have truly lost her.


    His world had always been solitary and dark.


    Until her arrival brought radiance into his life.


    Only then did he understand that his existence could have greater meaning.


    The man took off his jacket and gently climbed into her hospital bed, pulling her into his embrace.


    Only at this moment did the days of longing and worry finally subside, her fragrance a balm to his soul as Huo Shao Ting closed his eyes and slept.

 Chapter 594: Next time, Please consider Me.

    <h4>Chapter 594</h4>


    Rong Dai slept deeply and didn''t wake up until noon. As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw Huo Shao Ting by her side.


    Her nose tingled, and she burrowed her fuzzy head into his embrace, inhaling his scent deeply.


    She never expected that this trip to France would lead to so many events happening.


    Although Huo Shao Ting slept soundly, he was still awakened by her subtle movements.


    "You''re awake."


    His voice was as gentle and indulgent as always.


    "Mmm."


    Rong Dai nestled in his embrace, finding afortable position.


    Her eyes were red, and despite trying to hold back, a few tears rolled down.


    Huo Shao Ting''s heart meltedpletely; he could never bring himself to be harsh with her.


    "It''s all right now, I''m here."


    Saying that, he kissed her forehead and pulled her closer into his arms.


    Feeling her solid presence, his heart, which had been floating for over ten hours on the ne yesterday, finallynded.


    "Shao Ting, I..."


    She looked at him with reddened eyes, her voice choked with emotion.


    Only in front of him could she let down all her defenses and expose her vulnerabilities.


    "I know everything, it''s all over now."


    Huo Shao Ting knew what she wanted to say. Although he wanted to scold her for her behavior yesterday, seeing her in this state, he couldn''t bring himself to do it.


    Rong Dai''s tears streamed down, soaking the white shirt he had just changed into.


    She struggled to put her arms around his neck, shifting upwards to take the initiative and kiss him.


    She didn''t regret what she did yesterday.


    But she was still afraid and apprehensive.


    If she hadn''t been so resolute yesterday, then she might have... never seen him again.


    She needed reassurance, she needed solidity.


    Although the couple had been intimate many times, her kissing skills were still as clumsy as ever.


    Huo Shao Ting had been exercising restraint for some time, but he was still tormented by longing and anxiety every day.


    Defeated by her earnest yet clumsy kiss, he took control, holding her head firmly as he kissed her passionately and deeply!


    He was determined to make up for all the lost time!


    Rong Dai''s face flushed red, her breathingbored, her heart racing rapidly.


    But she felt reassured andforted.


    Fearing she might not be able to take it, Huo Shao Ting finally let her go.


    "Will you dare do that again?"


    Seeing that her mood had improved, a touch of sternness crept onto the handsome man''s face as he asked her with a hint of ferocity.


    Rong Dai hugged him, her head against his chest, and shook her head, "No, I won''t dare."


    Only then was Huo Shao Ting satisfied. He lowered his head, his thin lips brushing against hers as he spoke, "You scared me yesterday."


    "You''ve frightened me so many times now, a few more and I might not be able to take it."


    His voice wasced with lingering fear and worry. As he spoke, he took her hand and pressed it against his chest.


    "Next time, please consider me, okay?"


    His tone was almost pleading.


    In his life, apart from his father''s passing, he had never been afraid of anything.


    But since meeting her, he had experienced fear repeatedly.


    Rong Dai tightened her embrace, responding softly from his chest, "Okay."


    Looking back on yesterday''s events, she felt afraid too, but she didn''t regret it.


    It was to protect her older sister, who had sacrificed everything for her!


    How could she let her sister pay the price for her own foolishness again?


    And Xue Chun, she had done nothing wrong, why should she have suffered such harm?


    "I''ll be more careful in the future, but I don''t regret what I did yesterday."


    She looked up at him, her gaze unusually resolute.

 Chapter 595: It鈥檚 better to explain first.

    <h4>Chapter 595</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting could empathize with her feelings because she had experienced darkness.


    He himself had also experienced darkness, and fully understood that feeling of anger.


    "I just want you to protect yourself. I''m here for you, not just them."


    As the couple was talking, there was a knock on the ward door.


    An Feiran: "Rong."


    "It''s sister."


    Rong Dai was pleasantly surprised and quickly got up from the bed.


    "Sister is like me, we... Shao Ting, so I couldn''t tolerate it yesterday."


    She exined to him.


    Although Huo Shao Ting had mentally prepared himself earlier, he was still shocked upon confirmation.


    If it was an isted case, he could ept it.


    But with so many instances, wouldn''t that cause chaos?


    However, this was not the time to discuss this, since these were Rong Dai''s family members. He couldn''t show them such an attitude.


    He got up, put on his coat, made the bed, motioned for Rong Dai to rest on the bed, and went to open the door.


    An Feiran''s injury was on her shoulder de, and she had undergone surgery overnight, but it didn''t prevent her from getting out of bed and walking around.


    The moment she woke up today, she wanted to see her younger sister.


    After so many years, spanning two different eras, she couldn''t bear to wait any longer.


    Before yesterday, she had been holding back, even at the scene, she didn''t dare expose herself.


    But Rong still recognized her, and she didn''t even dare to call her "Rong." After all, it was the bond of kinship that allowed Rong to recognize her.


    "Mr. Huo."


    An Feiran knew Huo Shao Ting was there, so it wasn''t unexpected that he answered the door.


    Huo Shao Ting looked at her, a strange glint in his eyes.


    It seemed like some things could be exined...


    "Elder sister, pleasee in and sit down. You''re injured."


    Rong Dai grew anxious seeing the two of them blocking the ward entrance.


    It was only then that Huo Shao Ting made way, allowing An Feiran to enter. Seeing that Rong Dai was unharmed, she finally felt relieved.


    "Never be so reckless again. No grudge is worth more than your life, understand?"


    An Feiran caressed Rong Dai''s hair with one hand, her gaze as gentle as before.


    Rong Dai leaned into her embrace, obedient like a little girl: "I understand, elder sister."


    "This isn''t a suitable ce to talk. Let''s continue at the hotel."


    Huo Shao Ting also had many doubts in his mind. Seeing the sisters wanting to have a private conversation, he spoke up to stop them.


    An Feiran nced at Huo Shao Ting. She knew this person, of course.


    She just didn''t know much about him. She knew him from what he had said.


    She didn''t know how he had been in the past three years either.


    "But elder sister is injured..."


    "The wound is well-treated, and there''s a traveling doctor with me."


    An Feiran shook her head, unwilling to take her eyes off Rong Dai for a moment.


    After so many years apart, the sisters had so much to talk about.


    "Then I''ll go check on Song Xuechun first."


    Rong Dai nodded, then got up from the hospital bed.


    An Feiran apanied her to see Song Xuechun. Yesterday, if the shot hadn''t hit Song Xuechun, it would have been aimed at Rong Dai''s head.


    Song Xuechun''s injury was much more severe. Although she had been rescued, she was still lying in the ICU, with Zong Che keeping watch outside.


    "You must let me know when she wakes up."


    Looking at Song Xuechun through the window, tubes inserted all over her body, An Feiran still felt guilty even after killing Shi Ning.


    Zong Che nodded, and the sisters left the hospital with Huo Shao Ting and returned to the hotel.


    After entering the hotel, Jing Cheng carefully inspected every nook and cranny. Only then did Rong Dai pull An Feiran''s other hand and sit down: "Elder sister..."


    "Before Ms. An and my wife talk, there''s something I should exin first."


    Huo Shao Ting interrupted Rong Dai and took a photograph from Zhang Assistant, handing it to Rong Dai.

 Chapter 596: Xiao An An

    <h4>Chapter 596</h4>


    Rong Dai looked puzzled as she took the photo and saw it, and her expression changed instantly!


    "Elder Sister, what is going on here?"


    She looked at An Feiran with bewilderment as well.


    An Feiran did not answer her question immediately, but her gaze shifted between the couple seven or eight times before stopping.


    "Have you told him?"


    She asked Rong Dai.


    Rong Dai was momentarily stunned, then understood what she was referring to.


    Zhang the assistant hurriedly turned and went out, closing the door behind him.


    She nodded, taking An Feiran''s hand and looking at her sincerely, "Elder Sister, Mr. Huo can be trusted."


    An Feiran nodded, then shook her head slightly, indicating that no exnation was needed.


    "Some things cannot be exined clearly for now, but since you have chosen to trust him, I believe Mr. Huo is a man of integrity."


    "The specific situation can only be exined when Second Elder Brotheres."


    "I don''t know much either, as Second Elder Brother doesn''t really let me get involved in this matter."


    "Second Elder Brother... he''s here too?!"


    Rong Dai was both surprised and delighted, her eyes reddening instantly!


    She could never forget the tragic state of Second Elder Brother''s body when it was returned, with thirty-six fatal sword wounds!


    An Feiran nodded, her expression solemn as she looked at the couple, "My Second Elder Brother and I are true modern people."


    "As those who believe in reincarnation would say, my Second Elder Brother and I have been reincarnated, while you have been reborn."


    "Second Elder Brother was born with memories of his previous life, so he has been investigating many things for years."


    "I only regained my memories of my previous life three years ago, so I don''t understand much."


    Huo Shao Ting remained calm - if it were an ordinary person hearing these words, they would not have believed it at all.


    "So you broke up with Huo ShaoJie three years ago because of this?"


    He looked at An Feiran and asked.


    Rong Dai was stunned, looking at An Feiran in disbelief.


    Her elder sister dated her younger uncle???


    An Feiran was about to exin when her phone suddenly rang.


    Seeing it was a video call, An Feiran''s face immediately softened with a smile. She nced at Rong Dai and aimed the phone at the two of them.


    "Mommy��"


    As soon as the video connected, a soft, sweet voice of a little girl came from the other end.


    The little girl, wearing an adorable princess dress with her hair in little pigtails and a chubby, cute face, was riding on a rocking horse and looked very happy.


    "Mommy, who is this pretty sister?"


    Little An, with her big grape-like eyes rolling, took the phone from the maid and stared at the screen intently as she asked.


    An Feiran smiled warmly, her voice filled with tenderness, "Mommy will tell Little An when she gets back, okay?"


    "Mommy still has something to take care of right now."


    "Okay, bye Mommy!"


    Little An pouted her little mouth, then smiled radiantly and agreed before hanging up the video call.


    Rong Dai was dumbfounded for several seconds before reacting, "Elder Sister, when did you have a child?"


    Didn''t you just say you broke up with your younger uncle three years ago? But your little niece looks to be at least two years old!


    "Little An is Second Young Master Huo''s child, and I wasn''t the one who initiated the breakup."


    An Feiran exined that she could not process her feelings for Huo ShaoJie at the time.


    It had been three years, and she had been trying toe to terms with the memories of her previous life.


    "We had some disagreements back then, and we were both young and headstrong. After we broke up, neither of us looked back."


    "It wasn''t untilter that I realized I was pregnant with Little An, and it was after conceiving her that my memories of my previous life gradually resurfaced, until I fully regained them when I gave birth to Little An."


    Rong Dai was utterly dumbfounded - could this get any more mystical?

 Chapter 597: Her Destiny

    <h4>Chapter 597</h4>


    Huo Shao Ting''s expression was alsoplex. He had not expected such a convoluted situation between the two families.


    But Little An was of Huo Family blood, and no matter what transpired between Huo ShaoJie and An Feiran, the child deserved to know who her father was.


    An Feiran nced at Huo Shao Ting: "I couldn''t handle this situation at the time. I waspletely lost."


    "And ShaoJie... he hasn''t reached out to me all these years."


    Rong Dai noticed the bitterness in her expression and couldn''t help but feel sorry for her.


    Her elder sister had suffered so much in her previous life, and now that she had a second chance, she didn''t expect her emotions to still torment her like this.


    "But I never intended to hide Little An from him. It''s just that I spent these three years trying toe to terms with it."


    "If I involved ShaoJie, I wouldn''t be able to handle all of this properly."


    "Once the matters in France are settled, I''ll go to China. There are some things I need to investigate."


    "This concerns Rong Dai''s survival, so don''t worry about ShaoJie and me. Please don''t tell him after you return to China for now."


    "This is between him and me. I''ll handle it myself."


    Although An Feiran spoke gently, there was an undeniable forcefulness to her words.


    Rong Dai nodded: "Don''t worry, sister. But you''re noting back with us?"


    An Feiran smiled faintly, ncing at Huo Shao Ting: "I''ll go back with Little An. She''s only a little over two years old, but she''s very smart."


    "I don''t know how things will turn out between ShaoJie and me, but this is the child''s right. I can''t deprive her of that."


    Rong Dai''s emotions were mixed, unsure of what to say since her sister had already said everything she wanted to ask.


    "What rtion is An Feiya to the An family?"


    Huo Shao Ting inquired, looking at Rong Dai.


    He had previously asked someone to investigate An Feiya''s background, but found very little information.


    Now, with what An Feiran had said, he had a vague guess.


    Rong Dai frowned. Could it really be such a coincidence that they shared the same surname?


    An Feiran smiled and looked at Rong Dai warmly: "An Feiya is technically my aunt-inw."


    "She''s the An family''s adopted daughter, butter on with my uncle..."


    Rong Dai''s eyes widened in disbelief. This situation was simply too dramatic!


    "If I''m not mistaken, you should be my uncle''s daughter, making me your nominal cousin, and my brother your nominal uncle."


    An Feiran rified for the two of them.


    "Only those with the Rong bloodline can obtain this opportunity, but it''s extremely slim, almost negligible."


    "But we never expected it to actually seed. However, that doesn''t mean you''ll be safe."


    An Feiran told them what she knew.


    "My brother has other matters to attend to, so I need to go to China to investigate this."


    "Now that Mr. Huo is aware of this, it should make things much easier."


    Her words caused both Rong Dai and Huo Shao Ting''s expressions to change, as they had always been concerned about this matter, even if unspoken.


    Now that An Feiran mentioned it, they felt a mix of joy and worry, but mostly worry.


    "Don''t worry, as long as nothing goes wrong, there won''t be any major issues."


    An Feiran could see their concerns and reassured Rong Dai by patting her hand.


    Rong Dai nodded. For her, returning to Shangyuan was her destiny.


    If so, she would ept it.


    Now that her brother and elder sister were still alive, that was already the greatest constion for her.


    Her only regret was Huo Shao Ting, as she could not let him go.


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