Month: July 2023 (Page 4 of 4)

Chapter 26 – It’s too late

 

Xie Ming, who was wearing sunglasses, handed a thick folder to Xing Zhongwan. Xing Zhongwan opened and glanced at it. A hint of surprise flashed in his eyes, “Sister Ming, you?”

 

Xie Ming took off her sunglasses. Her simple face without makeup held an indescribable tenderness, “Boss, if it wasn’t for you, I would not have gotten my daughter’s custody back. I understand that Speaker Qi helped me get to where I am today even though he is quite busy. I’m so sorry there is nothing much I can do for you in return.”

 

“No no no.” Xing Zhongwan put the stack of documents away, “Sister Ming, how did you get ahold of these?” 

 

A trace of bitterness flashed on Xie Ming’s face, “Boss, I always have to leave some way out for myself. None of these people are clean. I was going to use this evidence in exchange for the custody of my daughter. I thought I would have to struggle to death with the other party before this was resolved but I didn’t expect this turn-of-events thanks to you.”

 

Xie Ming then passed a mobile phone to Xing Zhongwan, “Boss, I’ve also recorded a video of my testimony. If that document is not enough, I can also come back and testify in person.”

 

Xing Zhongwan took the phone and looked at Xie Ming gratefully, “Sister Ming, thank you.”

 

Xie Ming smiled and said, “No, thank you. Master Xing treated me well in the past. Even if it’s not for boss, I, too, can no longer stand for that group of cronies’ behavior anymore.”

 

Xing Zhongwan then handed the two air tickets to Xie Ming, “Sister Ming, return to country X today. Your place of residence has already been arranged. After you resume work in country X, feel free to find Xie Yi anytime.”

 

Xie Ming patted Xing Zhongwan with the back of her hand, “Boss, please pay attention to your own safety in this country. And as for…you and Qi…forget it, this is out of line for me. Then I will leave first, boss. See you in country X.”

 

Xing Zhongwan watched as the thankful Xie Ming left. A tall and strong man then came out behind him. It was the same man in the small building that day.

 

“Boss, someone has been sent to escort Miss Xie.”

 

Xing Zhongwan put both his hands on the file bag and tapped thoughtfully, “Be careful, don’t let anyone find out.”

 

Wa Liang’s bald head was in the way. Qi Yun looked indifferently at the serious old general, “Don’t you want to discuss my marriage with your daughter again?

 

“I can’t find any other good suitors but how can I bear to cast my family’s fate in your hands? There’s another reason I’m looking for you. Have you been in conflict with Laocheng recently? I feel that he’s getting close to the opposition full of elders who think it’ll be over if they apologize to the juniors. Why did you bother offending others at this critical moment?”

 

Qi Yun took the old general forward and said, “Our way of thinking is too different. Does an old man like yourself find his values to be more compatible with your own?”

 

The old man pointed to his bright forehead and pointed at Qi Yun, “You stinky boy. Are you cooking up some bad ideas again? Let’s not talk about this. What happened to the railway infrastructure joint-venture with the little princess in X country? You gave her the green light all the way. Does that beauty… have something to do with it?”

 

Qi Yun asked calmly, “Where did you hear this gossip?” 

 

The old man laughed, “I’m old, but my ears are not deaf. Whether intentional or unintentional, the news will soon spread. I have to keep it down quickly since I’m in the same boat as you. What good will it be for me if this boat capsizes? But you have to give me some reassurance. Surely you and that person from country X don’t have that kind of thing going…”

 

Qi Yun suddenly stopped and looked calm, “Don’t you think he resembles someone?”

 

The old man was stunned for a moment, but his eyes suddenly rounded as he smacked his round and oily forehead, “Oh, I remember now. Xing Yanyin! No way, this…was he the child who was kicked out of the Xing family at the beginning…tsk tsk, let me calm down a little.”

 

Qi Yun closed his coat, “Think about it slowly. I’m heading back first.”

 

When Qi Yun came out, he happened to meet the group from country X. Aisha recognised Qi Yun’s face immediately. After all, the project had been negotiated and the contract was signed today. Aisha understood how much effort Qi Yun had put into this project, otherwise there would not be this much progress after just three days of talking. Aisha and Qi Yun shook hands and exchanged a few words as the members of the group behind them all looked at the young president with curiosity.

 

“Thanks to you, I am able to negotiate this project on behalf of the people who live along the snow-capped mountains in Country X. Your country’s infrastructure is one of the best in the world. If you can encourage some movement regarding this project, many who live in these mountainous areas will be able to benefit from it.” Aisha had said. Her words were not just polite, but sincere too.

 

Qi Yun said calmly, “It’s also a good project for your country and mutually beneficial.” 

 

What Qi Yun said was perfunctory but Aisha didn’t mind, “This project will be assisted by the Royal Family Foundation and the person in charge is present here today. Wan, please come here.”

 

Aisha beckoned towards the end of the crowd. Xing Zhongwan who was bored and had his hands in his suit pants pocket was about to yawn. When he was suddenly called, he started coughing.

 

At this time, Qi Yun was looking at him, along with the entire follow-up group. Xing Zhongwan was so sleepy that he wanted to yawn again. He used his brain power too much when he just came back, so the jetlag had not subsided. What did you call me for this time, Aisha?

 

With this thought in mind, he walked to the front with a smile on his face before stretching out his hand, “Hello, Speaker Qi.”

 

Qi Yun smiled, reached out and shook it, “Hello.”

 

Aisha was secretly proud. Thank me later for giving you both a chance to shake hands in an open and honest way.

 

“Speaker Qi will attend the farewell dinner the day after tomorrow, right?”

 

Xing Zhongwan withdrew his hand and stood aside to look at Qi Yun.

 

Qi Yun hesitated for a moment before Xing Zhongwan said leisurely, “His Royal Highness, President Qi is a busy man.” He gave her a wink. Haven’t you occupied enough of his time already?

 

Aisha glanced back at him. I gave you both a chance to meet, but you’re still hating on me!

 

“That’s alright if Speaker Qi doesn’t have the time. Next time you have the opportunity to visit Country X, please let me personally show you around.”

 

Qi Yun nodded slightly and glanced at Xing Zhongwan inadvertently. Seeing that he was fiddling with his trouser legs in a bored manner, the seriousness plastered on his face must have been so boring to keep up with.

 

“It’s been windy these few nights, everyone be sure to keep yourselves warm.”

 

When Xing Zhongwan raised his head suddenly, Qi Yun no longer looked at him. As Qi Yun left, Aisha was still sighing about how Qi Yun was really considerate. Xing Zhongwan only looked at the thin suit on his body, and noted that he was dressed the least warmly in the entire group. Qi Yun’s words were actually directed at him.

 

Xing Zhongwan wrapped himself in a thick down jacket and went to the hospital to see that Xue Qingzheng was in a video-call with Cheng Zhengzhe. As soon as she saw Xing Zhongwan, who was wrapped up like a bear, he quickly summarized the work he was doing and ended the call. She excitedly took the computer and turned to Xing Zhongwan, “Old Xing, where did you get this amazing information?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took off his down jacket and slumped on the sofa opposite to her, “I’ve never seen such a vigorous patient.”

 

Xue Qing bit an apple, “That’s because you have a lot to keep in mind. After all, you’ve been tired recently.”

 

Xing Zhongwan stretched his body and took a breath, “The road has been paved for him. Let’s see just how he will pick this up.

 

Out of the corner of his eye, he glanced at the headlines on Xue Qing’s computer. If you want to play, two can play at that game. Take your time.

 

Shen Congxin was holding a newspaper as he ran into Qi Yun’s office, “Big cousin, have you read the news?”

 

Qi Yun was on the phone when Shen Congxin came in with a whimper. Qi Yun sullenly motioned for him not to speak.

 

“Qi Yun, are you just bored? You could’ve held back with such a big event occurring soon. I’m still thinking of how you and Lao Cheng’s relationship can be salvaged. Instead, I now have to draw a line with him. At any rate, you’ll only let me live a few more years until your ambitions are realized right? Despite my position as your manager, you’ve only walked all over us.”

 

After the other party hung up the phone angrily, Qi Yun motioned for Shen Congxin to come in and read the news to him. The corners of Qi Yun’s eyes gradually curled up and he let out a sigh of relief and laughed.

 

“Big cousin, you said you wouldn’t do it.”

 

Qi Yun got up and walked slowly to the window. The smile on the corner of his mouth was getting bigger and bigger when remembered the time Xing Zhongwan alone went to the central government for himself many years ago.

 

“You did it, didn’t you?” Shen Congxin recalled, “The incident involving my cousin-in-law?”

 

Qi Yun returned to his position and called the insider to let the secretary come in.

 

The expressions on Shen Congxin’s face were not too good, “I…I…this move is too ruthless. But how can my eldest cousin-in-law have a director of commerce do this…”

 

Qi Yun said the word Xie Ming.

 

Shen Congxin opened his mouth and murmured, “Xie Ming’s ex-husband is… by my cousin-in-law…” Without speaking he made a gesture with his fingers slitting his throat as his hands were shaking.

 

“Big cousin, I finally understand now. My cousin-in-law doesn’t truly hate you. He’s also really cruel and not a human being either. Hey, that’s not right… that’s not right… Anyway, he’s too good for you in comparison.”

 

Qi Yun took a sip of water calmly as the secretary knocked on the door. He was severely injured by Qi Zongcheng last time, so it took more than a month to recover but he was already caught up with all the major happenings as soon as he resumed his job.

 

“A lot of things can be found out by digging into this matter at the Commerce Department. Even I’ll be uprooted along this line.” He had been waiting for this day for a long time, but he didn’t expect Wanwan to give him a good headstart.

 

The secretary replied in a low voice, “But there will be a lot of people involved in the investigation. I’m afraid the one at the top won’t stand by.”

 

Qi Yun snorted coldly, “This is not what he wants to see the most. That Zi Zai… he doesn’t want to let go of his power yet. No one would easily hand over the power they’ve obtained after all. I will investigate this issue to the end and the people caught along the way will be enough for Wanwan’s revenge. Someone will always come to clean up the mess, and the higher ups have probably been waiting since a long time ago. They are more than willing to stand on the ‘good’ side and by selling him this favour, I’m also letting him know that I, Qi Yun, will still be on his side. With that, he should know who should go and stay.”

 

Qi Yun took a sip of steaming tea from the old house of the Xing family in Jiangnan. It was really fragrant.

 

Xing Zhongwan wore a tie, buttoned his diamond cuffs and put on a sapphire blue suit. Today marks the day of the farewell dinner he has to attend.

 

Now that the higher ups have been put in a mess. Those people will be afraid that it will be too late before they can stop Qi Yun. As such, they won’t be able to rise from this hurdle. As for the limit of cruelty, it will be up to Qi Yun. This will be the end of his revenge for Xue Qing’s accident.

 

Aisha is unfamiliar with the guests at the dinner party here. Although the food and wine was delicious, the toast was a little scary to carry out for a person from country X who didn’t know much about the wine etiquette of other countries.

 

Xing Zhongwan drank a lot of wine on behalf of Aisha. Even halfway through the banquet, Qi Yun was still not seen and it was not easy to leave before the dinner was over. Just as someone just came to give a toast again, Xing Zhongwan took a sip of wine from Aisha’s hand. After gulping it down, he felt something was wrong when the wine entered his throat. It was yellow wine!

 

When Aisha found out that there was something wrong with Xing Zhongwan, he had already been sitting in the corner for a while. He didn’t speak and his expression was a little dull. It was rare that he blushed. Xing Zhongwan, who claimed to not become drunk even after a thousand cups, was actually flushing red after drinking! Aisha didn’t think that the few glasses of wine he had drunk on her behalf just now could make him drunk, but Xing Zhongwan didn’t seem sober now either.

 

Aisha walked over and helped Xing Zhongwan up, “Wan, I’ll take you back first.” The drunk person was very obedient. He lowered his head and let Aisha support him.

 

Aisha looked around. She couldn’t leave her entourage here, but they can always be sent back later. Only Xue Qing can be trusted but she was still in the hospital. What should she do?

 

Aisha’s small stature supporting Xing Zhongwan was struggling to get out of the side door of the banquet hall. Luckily, she happened to meet Qi Yun, who came late. The two looked at each other and Aisha felt that she had met her savior, “Speaker Qi, Wanwan is drunk now. Can you help me send him off? Or you can find someone else who’s credible, I can’t leave the event now.”

 

Qi Yun also noticed Xing Zhongwan who had his head lowered and said to Aisha, “Leave it to me.”

 

Aisha handed his body to Qi Yun and then entered the venue with confidence. Qi Yun supported Xing Zhongwan and patted him on the back, “What’s wrong? Did you drink too much?”

 

Hearing a familiar voice, Xing Zhongwan raised his head. Those reddish eyes full of drunkenness looked at Qi Yun’s face, slowly sweeping over the bodyguard, secretary, and Shen Congxin with a look of anticipation before finally returning to Qi Yun’s face again. He suddenly stuck out his red tongue and licked those dry lips, his fingers trembling as he lifted Qi Yun’s chin, “You are so beautiful.”

 

He then hugged Qi Yun Yun tightly, even if Qi Yun was unsteady, and did not stop there.

 

Everyone had a ghostly expression before then turning around neatly. The young madam or cousin-in-law will silence whoever saw him in such a state once he woke up.

 

Xue Qing called Aisha when Xing Zhongwan’s did not pick up his phone. She wanted to eat some porridge and wanted him to come back and bring it for her. She learned from Aisha that Xing Zhongwan was drunk when she handed him over to Qi Yun. Xue Qing almost jumped off the hospital bed.

 

She called Shen Congxin quickly, but fortunately his mobile phone answered quickly.

 

“Is Laoxing with you?”

 

Shen Congxin answered hesitantly, “Uh…yes.”

 

Xue Qing held her hand over her chest, “Yes, I can be rest assured if he is with Qi Yun. Though Lao Xing must have drunk yellow wine. Feel free to enjoy any kind of alcohol together, but if you do have yellow wine, just let him have one cup. By the way, is he drunk already? Fine, listen to me. Just leave him alone. If you leave him alone, it’ll be fine! Otherwise, if he gets drunk, he will hug whoever is the most beautiful and his true colours will be exposed. It will be impossible to separate him and the other person before he sobers up. Hey, are you still listening?”

 

Shen Congxin desperately looked at his cousin-in-law who was unmoving behind him and starting to move towards his big cousin. Brother Xing Zhongwan then kissed him on his cold face.

 

“Sister Xue Qing, it’s too late…”

 

 

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T/N: 8th chapter before happily ever after (?)

Since Forced into the Deep is ending soon, I’d like to thank you readers on coming on this journey with me. Thank you for reading on the original translator’s site and thanks for waiting so patiently for updates no matter how long they took. I will be honest, it’s been a rough year for me, but I’m glad I made it through. Ah.. I’m getting a little sentimental now. I should probably make a longer note at the end of the series to thank all my kofi supporters and readers soon.

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Chapter 25 – Counterattack

 

Xing Zhongwan wore a suit when he joined Aisha’s business group the next day. Aisha was a little nervous, but there were no other major problems. She was not too surprised to see Xing Zhongwan, and the two entered the small conference room from the side.

 

As soon as they entered the door, Aisha suddenly breathed a sigh of relief and her rigid little shoulders finally relaxed, “Wan, I feel so relieved after seeing you. When Xue had an accident, I almost thought my uncle was responsible for the accident. But when I think about it, it’s impossible. He doesn’t have the ability to nor the courage. The situation here is very complicated. You can take Xue back, I can do this alone.”

 

Xing Zhongwan took out a strawberry candy from his pocket and peeled off the candy wrapper before stuffing it into Aisha’s mouth. Aisha stared at him blankly and ate the pink candy in her mouth, “Every time I’m unhappy, you always use this to coax me.”

 

“They are targeting me. Aisha, don’t worry about anything else. Just do a good job with this joint-venture case and then go back to Country X. I will oversee the whole process. Remember that you are the first in line to the throne. In the future, I will still be in your light, up-and-coming Your Majesty.” 

 

Aisha somewhat understood why Xing Zhongwan refused to follow her back in the first place and it was still the same now.

 

“I really don’t need to do anything?” Aisha wanted to confirm it one last time. Above all else, Xing Zhongwan was her indispensable supporter and ally.

 

Xing Zhongwan tidied up the cufflinks on his shirt and said with a smile, “What you have to do is to discuss this joint-venture and return to Country X safely. I also have things I should do.”

 

At the afternoon meeting, Xing Zhongwan followed up with the key group members under Aisha. The other group representatives of country X were somewhat surprised as Xing Zhongwan never participated in this kind of trip, but when they thought of Xue Qing’s car accident, these old coots kept silent. The tricks happening behind-the-scenes here had nothing to do with them. They fell in line in order to seek development opportunities to make money and did not gossip about personal grievances. However, the domestic follow-up group was different. The media-person in charge of covering news about X country’s royal family has only heard about him scarcely and most of them are seeing him for the first time. They are surprised at his youth and his appearance. Some who were from the same generation as Xing Yanyin’s described his looks to be almost similarly wonderful.

 

But the one who was the most surprised and excited was Shen Congxin.

 

That’s right, poor, young comrade Shen was pushed out again to represent the group in participating in this boring and complicated meeting. He was so sleepy that he yawned but ran up to Xing Zhongwan as soon as he saw him.

 

Xing Zhongwan, who was sitting next to Aisha, smiled at Shen Congxin, causing young comrade Shen’s face to flush red. This was the first time he saw his cousin-in-law in a suit. It was so scary. What was this look of a forbidden beauty? Shen Congxin resisted the urge to tip off his cousin. At the dinner party in the evening, he finally found a chance to speak with Xing Zhongwan.

 

Xing Zhongwan smiled and sent away a person who clearly wanted to discuss a joint-venture with him while secretly wanting to inquire about his relationship with Xing Yanyin. Xing Zhongwan vaguely remembered that this man was an old friend of his grandfather. He was secretly complaining and adding up the amount of times the old man had laughed with crow’s feet in his eyes in this one night, and it was almost more times than a normal person would laugh in an entire week.

 

Shen Congxin brought a wine glass over and the two clinked their glasses. Shen Congxin asked excitedly, “Is Sister Xue Qing okay?”

 

Xing Zhongwan swirled his glass, “What else could happen to her? She just broke one leg and two ribs…”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s long drawl made Shen Congxin a little horrified.

 

“Go back and tell your cousin that since I’m staying here, I have a plan. I, Xing Zhongwan, am not soft. Xue Qing’s accident will not be in vain. I have thought it out, so tell him not to find someone to follow me around.” Xing Zhongwan thought for a while and added, “It’s not that I don’t like it. I know that he has good intentions to protect me, but I can’t have any link with him in the current situation, or at least I can’t be caught with him. Since I am here, it will be easy to find some evidence of our connection.”

 

Shen Congxin nodded, “Brother Zhongwan, then you have to be more careful from now on. But haven’t you withdrawn all your secret connections in the country?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took a sip of champagne as he raised his long and narrow eyebrows, “You are too honest. What will you do in the future?! You cannot believe the words of businesspeople. Their words do not hold the same weight as your own. They may mention seven things but leave out three points. You still have so much to learn. Anyway, tell Qi Yun this, even if he will do whatever he wants. Don’t worry about me. During this time, I have to stay and help Aisha restore some order. I also have some countermeasures back in country X, he will understand.”

 

Shen Congxin had agreed before Xing Zhongwan behind around him with a glass of wine. When Shen Congxin looked back, Xing Zhongwan had already started chatting and laughing with the others. After the reception was over, Xing Zhongwan escorted Aisha to the car and was about to go back when he caught a glimpse of a familiar black car parked on the opposite road. Xing Zhongwan paused for a moment while holding the door. He then smiled in that direction, and then bent over and got into his car

 

As the convoy left, Qi Yun instructed the driver to drive. Shen Congxin sat in the passenger seat and turned around, clasping the back of the seat with both hands, “Big cousin, you could have asked the Foreign Affairs Office not to allow Zhongwan Bro back into the country.”

 

Qi Yun replied indifferently, “No, he would’ve come back sooner or later. Xue Qing’s status is different from him but they will definitely come back. I was careless this time and didn’t expect them to take action against Xue Qing instead.”

 

“Then we are really not going to follow him?” Won’t we need to find someone powerful to protect cousin-in-law?” Shen Congxin was still a little worried. No matter how powerful his cousin is, this was not country X.

 

Qi Yun remembered Xing Zhongwan’s smile just now and raised his right hand to his heart, “Don’t underestimate him, there is far more to him than meets the eye.”

 

The moment he knew about Xue Qing’s accident, Qi Yun knew that Xing Zhongwan wouldn’t just let it go. Wanwan has always been protective of his loved ones. He will not be tolerant towards anyone when it comes to those he cares about, like his relatives and friends. If anyone hurts them, he will be relentless. Getting involved and tormenting the other party to the end. If anyone can solve this head-on, it is Xing Zhongwan.

 

Qi Yun sighed, feeling helpless and remorseful. Their problems have started implicating the other innocent people in their lives. Wanwan…

 

Thinking of that look just now, Qi Yun couldn’t help but smile. He was like an irritated leopard full of anger, but the smile as though saying “it’s alright” was enough to calm Qi Yun down.

 

Taking a deep breath, Qi Yun pressed down the fluctuations in his heart. The plan will advance after all.

 

Xing Zhongwan went to the hospital later that night. At this time, Xue Qing was lying on the bed nibbling on chicken legs like she wasn’t a woman with two broken ribs while working on the computer. Xing Zhongwan took away her computer with a sullen face and pointed at her oily mouth, “Just rest after eating, okay? Don’t die.”

 

Xue Qing carelessly wiped her oily mouth, “Since you want to go ahead with that, I’ll do it even if I’m half-dead. If you want to stop me, you must kill me directly. After I was taken out of the orphanage by your mother, I haven’t been treated well by anyone. Since I don’t have any scruples, what else do I have to worry about? I have enough to eat, so I better work hard.”

 

Xing Zhongwan disgustedly went to the bathroom to get her a clean towel and handed it to her so she could wipe her hands, “You should rest. Be careful now that your ribs are crooked, how will you eat up young fresh guys in the future.”

 

Xue Qing just winked and tossed the towel away, “Have you come up with a solution after hearing that?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took off his tie and unbuttoned his shirt before putting his hands on the bed and winking at her, “What do you think?”

 

Xue Qing sighed, “Just accompany Aisha with her business group to show your identity. Flaunt your status and make sure they know who you really are. Don’t let them think they can play around courageously, and show them that you’re confident and playful with those bright eyes. No one would believe that you and Qi Yun are involved. Qi Yun is too calculative and getting involved with you would be self-destructive. To deal with these people, you must have convincing evidence to start with. It’s unlikely they have people who knew you five years ago, but if they do, then this period of time is very critical. Five years ago, you and Qi Yun had an intersection. Because of this, it’s important that we disclose the origin of the Qi and Xing family. We have to show that it is normal for you to take care of Qi Yun. The most important thing is that you and Qi Yun can’t be caught in the slightest during this time, otherwise it will be troublesome to contact him back and forth to get both your stories straight. “

 

The corner of Xing Zhongwan’s mouth twitched, but there was no smile in his eyes, “Then how about we find each other’s flaws before that?”

 

Xue Qing was stunned for a moment, then snapped her fingers, “Understood, it is better to strike first if you have found the entry point.”

 

She shifted to Xing Zhongwan’s side on her painful ribs, “Seriously, how much of your fighting is for me?”

 

Xing Zhongwan said something perfunctory, picked up the coat beside the sofa and prepared to leave.

 

Xue Qing said with a bitter face, “Just lie to me, it will be enough to placate me.”

 

Xing Zhongwan turned around and pointed to her injured leg, “Take care of that and don’t think about anything else.” He closed the door before Xue Qing could complain.

 

He took out his mobile phone and dialed a number. The call was quickly connected.

 

“Sister Ming, do you have time for a cup of tea tomorrow?”

 

 

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T/N: 9th chapter till the end!!

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Chapter 24 – Entering the Urn

 

Xing Zhongwan returned to Country X just in time for the royal family’s year-end banquet. As a member of the royal family who is 180th place in line for the throne, he was often sought after not for his identity, but his wealth.

 

His energy had long depleted after being forced to pretend to laugh since his arrival while also dealing with the complicated banquet process. He finally got some free time and loosened his tie. He was sitting in a lounge to have a cigarette when he was caught by Aisha.

 

“Wan, I finally found you, I didn’t have a chance to talk to you today.”

 

Aisha smiled and sat beside him, wanting to light a cigarette for him. Xing Zhongwan withdrew his fingers and calmly avoided it, “Speaking of business, it’s not good for you to smile like this.”

 

Aisha pointed out darkly, “Guess what those people outside are thinking? My grandfather is already in poor health, they are wondering if there will be a queen next?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took out a lighter and lit a cigarette, “What do you want me to help you with?”

 

Aisha folded her arms and opened her eyes wide, “I know that you are the smartest Wan. I need an opportunity and my break would be at the joint railway infrastructure project between two countries.”

 

Xing Zhongwan put out the cigarette in his hand in the ashtray, “I can’t help you with this project. I don’t plan to go back to China anymore, you can find someone else to help you.”

 

Aisha didn’t expect Xing Zhongwan to refuse so bluntly, “Wan, I know you and President Qi know each other. He is still the head of the Shen family, so if he can help, then…”

 

Xing Zhongwan suddenly stood up with a serious expression, “Aisha, I can’t help you with this matter. As long as the project is viable, it can be negotiated without pulling these sorts of strings. And I am done with Qi Yun. Whether you are in country X or going to be visiting with a business group soon, you can’t talk to anyone about our relationship.”

 

Aisha rarely saw Xing Zhongwan so solemn after so many years with him. When it comes to them working together, Xing Zhongwan’s attitude has always been soft and he will always show her courtesy due to her status as a royal princess, but this time…

 

It’s a pity for Aisha. After all, as long as the railway infrastructure is partnered up with the Shen family and solidified by the relationship with Qi Yun, there will be no difficulty.

 

“I understand, Wan. Since you don’t want it, I won’t force it. I believe I can negotiate with my own strength.”

 

Xing Zhongwan walked over and hugged the petite woman. Aisha laughed, “You don’t need to worry about me. But I’m really curious about you and President Qi. Do you really both have nothing to do with each other, as you said? I’m just being gossipy, but I can see that he likes you very much.”

 

Xing Zhongwan tidied up his loose tie and smiled at Aisha, “You think too much, my little aunt.”

 

Aisha shrugged, “It’s a pity, you are both a good match for one another.”

 

Xing Zhongwan came home from the banquet dazed. He thought about going to bed early to rest but couldn’t sleep, so he just sat in the yard with some wine while enjoying the breeze. Sitting alone quietly would make anyone feel lonely, so he simply let the housekeeper turn on the water fountains but it was awkward to watch the fountains alone as he drank wine while the cold breeze blew.

 

It’s been a while since he returned to Country X. Even if he didn’t pay attention to news about Qi Yun, the wind still carried some news to his ears. No. 3 and No. 4 supported and really liked Qi Yun, so when he was busy, they always put some updates regarding Qi Yun on his desk. Xing Zhongwan did not inhibit their behavior, but read each one carefully. As he thought, once he returned to Country X, Qi Yun didn’t have anyone holding him back to start his counterattack. However, in Xing Zhongwan’s opinion, Qi Yun was always riding a sinking boat, so he was still a little worried.

 

Rubbing his aching forehead, the sound of the water fountain couldn’t calm him down so he tipped his head back and drank down a glass of red wine. Xing Zhongwan had some ideas when he heard Aisha’s proposal, but the thought only flashed in his mind for a second. If he follows the business group, he will inevitably run into Qi Yun. The general election is less than a month away. If something goes wrong at this time…

 

Xing Zhongwan roughly set the cup down on the small table beside him. He got up and the old housekeeper behind him dr4p3d on a thick night robe around him, Xing Zhongwan slowly paced around the huge fountain. There were no stars in the skies of X country. Xing Zhongwan raised his neck and his eyes were dark. Qi Yun, are you also looking at the same night sky as me?

 

Qi Yun looked at the photo in his hand. It  was the only family portrait of Xing Zhongwan, and it was when he was still a baby. He was still reluctant to return this photo and secretly kept it. When there was a knock on the door, Qi Yun put the photo back into his coat, “Come in.” 

 

The doctor walked up to him and sighed, “She’s been retrieved. Do you want to meet her? After all, she’s your biological mother.”

 

Qi Yun was indifferent. He stared at the door of the emergency room not far away, “I’m afraid she doesn’t want to see me. She can’t wait to bite me to death now.”

 

“I’m not advising you, but there are already so many rumors outside the election. No accidents can occur to her for now, think for yourself.” 

 

The doctor pushed open the door and went out. Qi Yun suddenly remembered the phone call he received early this morning from the hospital before he rushed over to Guan Yang’s room which had blood all over the floor. There was a hint of mockery in Qi Yun’s eyes, so she couldn’t bear to continue living anymore? Mother, you disappoint me so much.

 

Qi Yun stood by the hospital bed and looked at Guan Yang, “Can’t you hold on a little longer? I want you to live to see me stand in that position. I want to share a milestone much worthy of celebration with you.”

 

Guan Yang was indifferent. She turned her haggard face, “Qi Yun, you are so cruel. You still think you deserve to be called my son?”

 

Qi Yun’s leg hurt a little so he sat on the side of Guan Yang’s bed and smiled, “I remember my dearest mother hated my smile the most. You mentioned that my smile was like the Shen family’s.” Qi Yun slowly approached Guan Yang and said in her ear, “Though I think I’m the most like you.You’ve always wanted to get rid of me time and time again, but it hurts very much to have knives stabbing my body, mother. I have never been a good-tempered person, so I can’t help but to return your kindness and let you live as well as me. I only have a problem with those from the Guan family… is being obedient not amicable? Why do you want to gather them as my obstacles? Don’t worry, their days are numbered and they won’t have to feel lonely for long. They will get used to being stabbed sooner or later. Maybe when I’m tired of playing with them, I’ll collect some dirt to relieve them of these games.”

 

Guan Yang stared into his eyes and almost shed bloody tears, “Qi Yun, you are not human!”

 

Qi Yun stood up, took off his coat and then his shirt until his upper body was bare. His thin and fair chest was filled with staggered scars.

 

Pointing to the scar in the middle that almost split his chest into two, “Mother, remember this? That car accident, your kind son, otherwise known as my own benevolent brother, caused it himself. I almost died on the operating table after two open-heart surgeries.”

 

His finger moved down towards a wound that was still very new, “I almost never woke up again because of this knife. This is what my generous grandfather, you, the Guan family behind you, and the countless people who wanted Qi Yun dead did.”

 

Qi Yun took his shirt and slowly put it back on, “You are the least qualified to say that. I don’t deserve to be a human being? Then what about you?”

 

Guan Yang’s face was ashen. She was paralyzed on the hospital bed, deflated. Qi Yun’s scars all over his body made her eyes widen.

 

Qi Yun turned around slowly, “If you want the Guan family in prison to suffer less, stop doing stupid things. Do not assume that I don’t know about your secret connections. You know what my bottom line is.”

 

In country X, Xing Zhongwan opened his eyes abruptly. He raised his hand to wipe the sweat from his forehead, took a deep breath and slowly sat up from the bed.

 

The phone by his bedside suddenly rang and Xing Zhongwan picked it up. He got up, suddenly frowned and jumped out of bed quickly. Three days ago, Aisha left with a business group from country X and Xue Qing went with her on behalf of the group. Before leaving, Xue Qing joked that if she ran into Qi Yun, she would shun him. Xing Zhongwan didn’t expect to receive the news of her car accident just three days later.

 

When Xing Zhongwan got on the plane, his whole body was cold and his palms were sweating. Cheng Zhengzhe was still on a business trip in another country, Xing Zhongwan didn’t dare tell him and just took No. 3 and No. 4 on a private plane while submitting a private flight route application to country X’s foreign affairs office. He didn’t even discuss it with Aisha. Xing Zhongwan leaned on the back of the plane seat with his eyes closed and never spoke on the flight.

 

No. 3 poured a glass of warm water for him but Xing Zhongwan pushed it away and fell into contemplation.

 

Qi Yun received a call from the foreign affairs office in the afternoon and was a little surprised when he received the news that Country X applied for diplomatic assistance and a private flight route. This was not like Wanwan’s behavior and something must have happened. Sure enough, that was when the news of Xue Qing’s car accident immediately reached his ears.

 

After all, the situation was no simple matter.

 

On the day Xing Zhongwan flew back to China, he had contacted Aisha as soon as he got off the plane. He then rushed to the hospital to see Xue Qing.

 

Xing Zhongwan looked at Xue Qing who had a cast on one leg and many scratches on her face, his tense body finally relaxing a little, “Fortunately, you weren’t permanently disfigured.”

 

Xing Zhongwan walked to Xue Qing’s side, squatted down and took her into his arms. Xue Qing patted his back, “You shouldn’t have come, Laoxing.”

 

Xing Zhongwan let go of her and looked at her carefully again, “If it was me who was lying on the bed now, would you and Laocheng leave me alone?”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s eyes were firm, and the dark blue in his eyes showed that he was alright with the physical fatigue. Instead, the torment to his heart was the most painful.

 

“Laoxing, listen to me. Our entire delegation was involved in a car accident and the official news had announced it as an accident. But it was very obvious who the target of the car that hit us was. I could see that it clearly drove out of its way to come in our direction. I’m a native of country X, and have no enemies in China, so why did they want to kill me? The target was not me, but you! This person wanted to draw you back into the country. You know better than me why they’re doing this.”

 

Xing Zhongwan looked solemn as Xue Qing straightened her body, “Laoxing, the general election is close and everyone’s fighting chaotically. When Qi Yun makes a move, he never leaves anyone any leeway from the start. Now, many people hate him and want to kill him, but he is too stringent about his work, so it is impossible to leak anything about him. Due to this, they are all staring at you now. You must go back immediately before you get pulled into the crossfire.”

 

Xing Zhongwan got up and took a few steps around the ward. His eyes narrowed slightly as his fists clenched into the pockets of his jacket. He pressed his lips tightly together. Xue Qing endured the pain, “Laoxing, what do you think?”

 

Xing Zhongwan stopped and looked at her, “I had a dream on the day you had an accident. I dreamed that Qi Yun died and he was full of bloody holes.”

 

Xue Qing opened her mouth. She was speechless for a long time.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s forehead tensed up and his snow-white skin was now full of blue veins, “I’ve never had such a dream, but I know it’s not a good sign.”

 

Xue Qing understood and she exhaled, “I respect your decision.”

 

Xing Zhongwan stared at the glass window of the ward. He always felt that something would happen to Qi Yun at this time. He was in a hurry to come back because of Xue Qing and because of that dream.

 

If there is something that he must face, then bring it on. Since he can’t avoid it and will be dragged into this game, he is not afraid. He left this country so he would not become a bargaining chip for others to threaten Qi Yun, but Xing Zhongwan couldn’t bear it if his friends were hurt by those who were trying to lure him back to China.

 

Five years ago I was able to protect Qi Yun, and I can do it five years later too, so let’s wait and see.

 

He stretched out his hand and drew a circle on the misted glass window. That dream, it absolutely cannot come true.

 

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T/N: Yes! Exactly 10 chapters to go~ The end is neigh!! While waiting for future updates, why not pick a new novel to read? I suggest Perfection and Revenge of the Garfield, translated by our Moechi. Otherwise, if you’re into smut, I suggest the ‘Princess; and the dragon. Law of Love is great, though it’s translation is still ongoing at the moment.

Do check out the other awesome translations we have on HouseOfHoeni 🙂

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Chapter 23 – This life is still long

 

The Supervision Committee’s inspection of the Shen family lasted three days. After three days, a group of people were kicked out of the Shen family in order to settle the small problems. In principle, it was not enough to solve the bigger problems, but with this, the Shen family would only have to pay a hefty fine.

 

After the inspection team left, vice president Chen finally breathed a sigh of relief and made a phone call to express his gratitude to Xing Zhongwan.

 

After Xing Zhongwan hung up the phone, he looked up at the indifferent man on the news and frowned. Qi Yun’s physical condition was reported to him regularly by Xue Qing. His injury has not healed but Qi Yun remained very headstrong about what he wanted to do. No one could persuade him to stay, and he couldn’t stop because of the current situation. The Supervision Committee’s investigation of the Shen family was settled very easily as they weren’t able to find a big problem, so the next problem now was Qi Yun’s safety.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s expression was not good. He has not slept well for the past few days under the tension and high pressure. Looking at the calendar on the desk, it was about time for him to return to Country X…

 

Qi Yun was in the living room changing his bandage dressings, as well as the cotton swabs on his wounds and couldn’t help but frown. When Shen Congxin came in, Qi Yun was putting on his coat and preparing to go out. He stepped forward to help him, “Let’s rest a little longer. There will be a press conference later and a memorial service along with a funeral tomorrow morning. Your injury…”

 

Qi Yun buttoned his coat and smoothed the wrinkles on his sleeves, “You don’t need to go to the memorial service tomorrow.”

 

Shen Congxin nodded obediently, “Big cousin, I think Gao Qiao is right. You really should go to the temple. Let’s walk around, this year has been too bad on you.”

 

Qi Yun was a little confused, “Gao Qiao?”

 

Shen Congxin said, “Yeah, I met him in the company yesterday. Didn’t their family cooperate with the Shen’s? He came to talk about a temple in the south of the Yangtze River that is very spiritual and asked me to take you for a walk.”

 

Qi Yun was stunned for a while. The corner of his mouth twitched and curled up. Shen Congxin wondered if there was anything funny. Why was his big cousin so happy when he, himself was about to die of worry?

 

“Please thank Gao Qiao for his kindness. I will definitely go over there to exorcise my bad luck.”

 

At Qi Zongcheng’s memorial service, Qi Yun sat in the next-of-kin seat and looked at the huge portrait in front of him. Was it sad that his relative just passed away after leaving so disgracefully, being pissed off to death? It’s just pathetic! In the last few years, he had witnessed Qi Yun’s hardships, but he didn’t forget to leave his only grandson in hell. Grandfather, you didn’t even want to leave me a chance to be a good person.

 

Qi Yun coldly watched people go up to pay their respects and offer flowers, but his thoughts had long since been empty. The string of Buddha beads in his hand were cold. He took off the beads on his wrist. He has never been willing to take it off for five years, but now he was no longer qualified to wear it. Qi Yun’s hands were destined to be covered with blood and he couldn’t afford to hold these beads with his heart still stuck in the past.

 

Qi Yun took Qi Zongcheng’s urn to Jiangnan the next day. Qi Zongcheng’s hometown was in the south of the Yangtze River, so the urn will naturally be brought back to his homeland. It is impossible to verify whether Qi Zongcheng had this wish before his death, but Qi Yun just used this as a guise to return to Jiangnan because there was someone he wanted to see.

 

Qi Yun’s secretary was seriously injured and still recuperating in the hospital. With only Shen Congxin by his side, the volunteers and teachers in the temple were all familiar with him. It was a place where all living beings were equal, and everyone had equal rights and positions did not matter.

 

Qi Yun lit some incense, knelt on the cushion and kowtowed respectfully. The wound on his abdomen has still not healed, but he didn’t care even if the movement aggravated his wound. It was winter in Jiangnan and it was raining. The joints of his legs, which were injured in his early years, were swollen again. This kind of wet and cold weather was terrible for Qi Yun. When he knelt down, the pain was so severe that he lost the strength to even get up. Shen Congxin rushed over to help him but Qi Yun stopped him and stood up little by little with his hands on the ground. The pain from the friction on his joints made his back soak up with sweat. He stood up straight, his back upright as if nothing happened. The volunteer passed him a lamp. Qi Yun took the brush and paused for a while before then writing three words. The volunteer asked him if he wanted to send the lamp to the shelves at the back as usual but Qi Yun refused, “Please help me get it back.” 

 

The volunteer nodded and took it. He glanced to the back while holding the lamp offering. There was someone there. As soon as he knelt down and bowed, he already knew who that person was.

 

The volunteer came out very soon, “Sir, there is a ginkgo forest at the back of the temple. The scenery is very pretty.”

 

Qi Yun nodded, turned back and took a meaningful look at the lamp-offering altar before leaving the hall.

 

Standing behind was Xing Zhongwan. He could see Qi Yun’s every move clearly after he entered the hall. He lost a lot of weight and there were a few more strands of white hair on his head. Xing Zhongwan stared at his head with a serious expression.

 

Qi Yun’s eyes were less obsessive but firmer than before. He had made up his mind. Xing Zhongwan leaned against the door with his hands down and looked at the safety lamp that Qi Yun asked the volunteer to bring inside. On the note, the words ‘live well’ were written. Xing Zhongwan raised his hand and gently stroked it. The undried ink left marks on his fair fingers. Xing Zhongwan’s eyes hurt and the corner of his nose was sour, but a smile emerged from the corner of his mouth. This is the only time he smiled from his heart ever since he returned to China.

 

Qi Yun, you really let go of it…

 

Behind the temple is a long path, with rows full of ginkgo biloba trees. There were very few people on this mountain road and they were even more scarce due to the rain today. Qi Yun asked Shen Congxin to wait in the car below. As he held an umbrella by himself, he looked up at a row of straight ginkgo trees before walking to the fence.

 

He paused for a moment and looked down at his already wet leather shoes before looking forward slowly. The drizzle hit his black umbrella without making a sound. The rain was light but every waterdrop was dense enough to slowly soak up dry objects. It was just like the heavy feelings his heart had unknowingly been soaked full with.

 

There was the sound of footsteps on fallen leaves on the other side of the fence. Qi Yun knew that he had come.

 

“Actually, I don’t remember how you looked when I first met you. I only vaguely remember that you were dirty, thin and not beautiful, but you took my hand and said you wanted to marry me. I was very angry at that time. This stinky boy was blind and couldn’t even tell apart male and female.”

 

A chuckle came from the other side of the wall and Qi Yun laughed lightly too. There were no traces of worldly troubles, adding a touch of warmth to this rainy winter solstice.

 

“When you came back, I actually wanted to ask you if your marriage proposal from that year still counted or not. If you still want to marry me, then go ahead and marry me.” The footsteps on the other side of the wall paused and did not answer.

 

Qi Yun stretched out his hand and brushed over the wet weeds beside him, “Since I met you, I have often wondered if we would have turned out differently if our circumstances weren’t so awkward when we first met. Without the paralyzed Qi Yun, or the forced Xing Zhongwan. If I pursued you earnestly.” He seemed to be amused by his own words.

 

“I’m guessing that I will be beaten up so badly that I’ll be searching for my teeth on the ground because of your irritable temper. Even if our ancestors had a good relationship, you won’t show me any courtesy. After all, the fairy sister of your dreams became a man and shattered the dreams of your first love. “

 

Xing Zhongwan at the other end of the wall laughed and replied, “You really know me. But if you weren’t injured, you’d be a thousand times more calculative and often try to judge if I were trying to hurt you or not. I have seen you like that before. At that time, when you went to the Xing family to break off the engagement with a face that looked like everyone there had a blood feud with you. Why are you so unlikable?”

 

Qi Yun, who remembered this couldn’t help but touch his face, “You managed to take care of me for so long even if I’m so unlikable.”

 

Xing Zhongwan touched his nose before pulling out a cigarette and holding it in his hand but he didn’t light it, “I must’ve owed you in my last life, so I came to repay the debt.”

 

Qi Yun looked halfway before and lowered his head, “Now that I think about it, the days when I was paralyzed on the bed were my happiest days. At that time, I tried desperately to get better and wanted to see you, but now I really think about it. I wish I was paralyzed like back then again. “

 

Xing Zhongwan tutted, “Don’t. No fool will take care of you if you are paralyzed again.”

 

Qi Yun paused, “Are you still angry? About the things I lied to you about.”

 

Xing Zhongwan sighed, biting his cigarette and looking up at the sky full of haze, “Yes. Still angry, very angry. But things have already happened, so there’s no meaning in that anymore. It’s been so many years and if I’m still holding onto that, it’ll only prove how much I don’t appreciate myself.”

 

Qi Yun turned to look at the moss-covered fence, “Thank you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan sighed, “Why are you thanking me? As a human, everyone is allowed to cry, make trouble and also act spoiled, but next time you can’t use this method if you meet someone you like. Be honest, love is something that can’t be calculated. People who love you will always stay for you, and those who don’t love you will cause the both of you to become tortured by one another.”

 

Qi Yun’s pace slowed down. He was towards the end of his life. Will he meet someone he likes again? It might be difficult.

 

“Shen Qinghong said the same thing to me back then. I don’t know how to love someone. I’ve troubled you during this time. I’m sorry. What you said to me in the small building that day was wrong. Saying that I deserve better, but in fact, I don’t. I have done so many wrong things in my life, and I can’t even remember some of the things that I need to atone for. I have spent my life’s worth of luck when I met you. I can’t stop now or make one wrong move. I forced myself into my current dilemma.”

 

Qi Yun stopped to face the wall, he knew that Wanwan was listening quietly from there, “I was always forcing you every step of the way. That pressure almost landed you in someone else’s trap again. When you meet me, all I ever bring you is trouble.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was stunned, “You can’t say that you’re trouble. You never give yourself a little leeway when you do things. It’s too ruthless, hurting others and hurting yourself.”

 

Qi Yun’s hand brushed over the moss-covered wall, before finally turning around to look at the road that was about to end, “This is the first time we have opened our hearts to talk, if we were like that earlier, could we have actually become friends and called each other out to meet up for a drink together during our troubled times?”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s eyes were red and his hands holding the umbrella handle cracked because of the force. Nevertheless, he endured it.

 

Qi Yun looked at the black car that was waiting for him not far ahead, “Return and don’t come back. This is a place full of tough decisions. Stay in country X. I will visit auntie’s [/mfn]Xing Zhongwan’s mother[/mfn] tomb from time to time for you. Don’t worry.”

 

Xing Zhongwan couldn’t hold the cigarette in his hand anymore. His eyes were red and dripping with tears. He pressed his fist tightly against his lips and there was a deep, red circle bite mark on it.

 

“If… and I mean if.” Qi Yun said carefully.

 

“If we meet again next time, can you call me bro even just once?”

 

Xing Zhongwan squatted down, his eyes were stuffy and he couldn’t stand at all. Squatting down relieved the pain in his heart.

 

Qi Yun smiled, “I also want to call out to you one last time.”

 

Xing Zhongwan buried his head between his knees, and the soft sound from the other side of the wall made him unable to hold back any longer.

 

“May you be well. Have a safe journey.”

 

Qi Yun stared at the wall in a daze, a line of tears slid down the white and slender chin. He then turned around and walked towards the black car. Step by step, firm and steady, without looking back.

 

The two people holding umbrellas finished walking through the path separated by a wall and walked to opposite sides. They were never travelers on the same path.

 

Xue Qing took Xing Zhongwan’s umbrella and wiped the raindrops on his shoulders, “Cry it out if you’re unhappy. Don’t hold back, I won’t laugh at you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan didn’t speak, turned around and got into the car. There were two boxes in the car. One of them contained a bracelet. It was the bracelet that he broke. Even so, it is now being held by Xing Zhongwan. When Shen Congxin sent it, he said it was Qi Yun’s decision to do so. This was what belonged to his Xing family, so please be sure to accept it as it is now returned to the original owner. In the other box was the Buddha beads he gave to Qi Yun five years ago. The reason why he gave the beads to Qi Yun was because he wanted to take away his anger so that there was more room for everything else. So that there was more peace in his heart and less obsession. It was obvious that he returned the beads because the path he was about to tread was drenched in blood, so he no longer deserved it.

 

Qi Yun was about to make his move, but he endured so long just to wait for him to leave and return to Country X again.

 

If you don’t advance, you can only retreat, and Qi Yun has no way to retreat, so he can only move forward. The two people who didn’t want to drag each other down could only part ways, maybe one day in the future, they will be able to really meet and give a toast to each other with a smile.

 

Xing Zhongwan bent down and buried his face in his hands. Xue Qing couldn’t see his expression but could understand his heartache. There were too many uncontrollable things in life, but he had done his best to get this far. After caring and liking a person, even if that person has caused him harm, after the complicated feelings have been lost over the years, only the joy from before is left. They haven’t faced each other for a long time, but now they can do something for each other, even if they had to live well in different corners of the world, it was the best outcome for each of them. Xue Qing turned around and didn’t speak again. She ordered the driver to drive to the airport.

 

Xing Zhongwan raised his face. The redness in his eyes did not fade away, but he could not shed a single tear.

 

Qi Yun, if I could go back to that time, I would still say those words, ‘Sister Fairy, how about I marry you when I grow up?’

 

Qi Yun was sitting in the car as the rain got heavier. The sound of raindrops hitting the glass window was loud. Shen Congxin opened the car door and sat beside Qi Yun, “Big cousin, they’re gone.”

 

Qi Yun stared at his soaked trousers. Gone? Just leave, it will be safer to go back to Country X now. Then, he’ll be able to make a move soon…

 

“The Romance of the Western Chamber” was playing in the car and Qi Yun smiled. He didn’t know if he would ever have the chance to hear him sing the Western Chamber in his life again.

 

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T/N: A little sentimental this chapter… With Qi Yun and Xing Zhongwan walking down opposite sides of the same wall. If only Qi Yun did not have to go through with it… But don’t worry, they will triumph above all and get their happily ever after~

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Chapter 22 – Hard to defend against

 

Qi Yun was sitting in a wheelchair, struggling to put on his clothes as he put his arms through the arm-holes. He looked at his wrapped abdomen. This year, he was really stabbed by many knives, but this time the knife almost killed him. He buttoned his shirt as the door of the ward opened. Xue Qing closed the door before sitting on the sofa not far away from him.

 

Qi Yun stopped his movements and looked at her, “Thank you.”

 

The corner of Xue Qing’s mouth was raised, “I’m not helping you, I’m helping Laoxing. Speaking of which, we’ve only met two times, but it was both in the hospital. You have a very bad track record. At that time, Laoxing liked you. To tell you the truth, in so many years, I have never seen him care about a person so much. I was really angry to know that you were using your illness to keep him by your side. Xing Zhongwan may look like he gets along well with many people and has always been frank, but after his heart is hardened, no one can get close to him.”

 

Qi Yun touched the beads on his wrist sadly, “I know.” 

 

Xue Qing took a deep breath.

 

She didn’t want to say these words, but seeing that Xing Zhongwan was about to get involved in Qi Yun’s mess again, Xue Qing couldn’t bear it, “I installed a bug in your ward back then. I think you should know in hindsight that he overheard your conversation with your grandfather. I am an outsider who thinks it’s absolutely ridiculous, but he has never doubted you at all. From the beginning to the end, he understood the rules of the game in this circle too well. Do you think he didn’t know that you, Qi Yun, had the intention of taking advantage of him from the very beginning? Your background is complicated, while his upbringing environment was much cleaner than yours. Everyone all struggled out of the mud, so who is cleaner than the other and how difficult it is for such a person to believe in another person, Qi Yun, you shouldn’t lie to him. Even more so, you should not use that reason to make him stay. Do you know how headstrong Xing Zhongwan is? Just because Guan Yang drugged you, he used the secret connections buried in the country from so many years ago. Due to this, all his efforts for decades were in vain, but he didn’t feel any loss at all, just doing it all for you. He didn’t think about himself at that time. Did you know how broken he was the moment he knew the truth? That you drugged yourself? Qi Yun, you not only stomped on his heart using your own feet. You smashed it multiple times and broke it ruthlessly.”

 

Qi Yun lowered his shoulders. His face was pale and he didn’t know how much this matter had hurt Xing Zhongwan.

 

“After returning to Country X, he flew to various other countries for a year and a half without coming back, and without a word. He said he did it to take a break and have a vacation, but in fact, I know that he left to let go of the resentment towards you in his heart. He gave you all the kindness in his heart, Qi Yun. Don’t blame him for being so cruel to you, everything he did was for you. Even if he still harbors resentment towards you, he would rather bury it in his heart and give in slowly every time you approach him because staying away from you is the best way he could protect you.”

 

The corners of Qi Yun’s eyes were red and the tip of his nose was sour, “I know, I know.” He covered his face with his hands, how could he not know, it was all for him.

 

Xue Qing turned her face away, the corners of his eyes flushed. She took a deep breath, “Don’t worry. Laoxing will guard the Shen family, you can do what you want to fearlessly. Qi Yun, don’t let him down again.”

 

Xue Qing wiped her nose and opened the door to go out.

 

Qi Yun opened his hands, the scars on his palms overlapped each other. His eyes were blood red. He clenched his teeth tightly and trembled. His body that had not recovered was covered in cold sweat.

 

In recent years, he has really been doing some ‘good deeds’, and it has gone on for far too long. He doesn’t want to add any negative karma anymore. He is afraid that he will not be worthy of such a good person when he himself is full of sins. He had to kill the messenger behind the scenes, before it was too late.

 

Wanwan was his weakness five years ago. It was even more so five years later. If it’s like that,  then let’s go to hell together.

 

At the Qi family’s old house, in Qi Zongcheng’s bedroom… 

 

Back then, he got a stroke and has been paralyzed on the bed by Qi Yun ever since getting angered. Looking at Qi Yun who was being pushed in a wheelchair, Qi Zongcheng raised his still-mobile left hand and pointed at him, “I knew you wouldn’t die so easily.” 

 

Qi Yun moved his own wheelchair expressionlessly and came beside his bed, “Grandpa, you can’t look down on me like that. If I die, the Qi family will really have no successor. Are you willing to end it with your hands?”

 

Qi Zongcheng’s eyes widened, “My Qi family doesn’t need an heir like you. I feel disgusted just thinking about the matter between you and that man from the Xing family. The Qi family doesn’t have such a shameless descendant like you!”

 

Qi Yun held Qi Zongcheng’s stiff hand, “Grandpa, when I threatened you with the files. Why didn’t you throw the stack of documents back in my face and tell me to scram? Oh… I guess it was because at that time, the little bastard son you hid was not an adult yet, right?”

 

Qi Yun’s face was pale and his lips were pale. He looked like death was at his doorstep. 

“What’s the matter now? You think that now’s the best time to get rid of me? You want to give everything you have now to your little son?”

 

Qi Zongcheng’s face turned dark and there was terror in his eyes, “You! You! What are you doing? That’s your blood-related, dear uncle!”

 

Qi Yun laughed, “Uncle? It turns out that I still have relatives. So he is my blood-relative. My grandfather sent someone to stab me with a knife and my uncle can’t wait to trample over me under his feet, coveting the power in my hands. The both of you really are so dear to me.”

 

Qi Zongcheng’s eyes widened, “Qi Yun! You bastard! What kind of sins did my Qi family commit in our past life to raise such a wolf-hearted thing like you!”

 

Qi Yun backed away, hiding the sneer on his face, “Your beloved little son will be able to go to hell and accompany you soon. Didn’t you think about this when you started it? Either you will kill me, or… ah, you still can’t die. You have to watch how the Qi family will be crushed by my hands. I’m getting tired of playing after so many years.”

 

Qi Zongcheng pointed at Qi Yun. His eyes were wide open and he couldn’t catch his breath for a while before he passed out. The air left him like an old bellows box and his body became like a lifeless plastic bag leaking air.

 

Qi Yun turned around, moved his wheelchair to the door and watched Qi Zongcheng’s rosy complexion slowly fade away. Qi Yun’s face was expressionless as he watched the old man lying on the bed rot like an old tree slowly.

 

With a sigh, he turned the door handle and walked out of Qi Zongcheng’s bedroom. The bodyguard came over with a man who was covered in injuries. Qi Yun looked at his personal secretary who was beaten, his bruised face finally showed a hint of movement.

 

The secretary raised his face with difficulty, “Sir, why…I…never told anyone…”

 

Qi Yun asked the bodyguard to take the person to the hospital for treatment.

 

When he turned around, he found himself in the middle of the long corridor with no end in sight. Back then, it was his grandma who led his little self to walk out of this dark corridor. Within it was a demon that devoured people’s hearts. Everyone in this house had their hearts devoured by the demon and soon became disgusting monsters themselves.

 

Qi Yun opened the palms of his hands. He couldn’t even remember how many people were killed by him and how much blood there was on his hands. He was also a sinful monster and he too, could not be redeemed.

 

He slid his wheelchair alone, out of in this corridor, slowly disappearing into the darkness…

 

Shen Congxin came to pick up Qi Yun to send him to the hospital. Qi Yun was in so much pain that he couldn’t even get into the car, so Shen Congxin held back his tears and helped him up and into the car. Qi Yun glanced sideways at him, “You should grow up, you have to learn to pick up important matters in the future.”

 

Shen Congxin opened the door on the other side and sat down, “Big cousin, let’s go to the hospital first. Don’t think about it. I will grow up, I don’t want to be so useless. Do you blame me for telling cousin-in-law?”

 

Qi Yun covered his wound and did not answer Shen Congxin. Shen Congxin held the handkerchief and little by little, wiped his forehead for him.

 

“He probably doesn’t feel any better than I do now.”

 

“Let’s go to the hospital. I’ll be busy tomorrow. I have to get dressed and put up a front to those who are waiting to see my disgraced self. We have to let them know that Qi Yun is not dead yet.”

 

Shen Congxin was stunned, “But your body…”

 

Qi Yun turned his head and looked tired, “Don’t look at the me who is standing on a high place now. I don’t know when I will fall, but it will hurt as much as when I rose up. If that day comes, the Shen family will be the first to be dragged along into the mud. I promised Shen Qinghong to take care of you. If something happens to me, go to Wanwan. He will meet you and he will help you to keep the last living semblance of the Shen family alive because of the friendship our two ancestors had. Though this is all up to you now.”

 

It was as if Qi Yun were saying his final words. It completely frightened Shen Congxin, “Don’t scare me big cousin. Things haven’t gone bad to such a degree yet.”

 

Qi Yun coughed a few times. Before the accident, he received a photo of him standing downstairs at Zhong Gang’s house. Xing Zhongwan was not in the photo but it was just a warning to him. This person knew him and Wanwan’s history. This was a threat to him. They had something to use against Qi Yun, and this piece of information could ruin him forever. However, not directly posting photos of Xing Zhongwan means that his identity was still somewhat protected.

 

There was only one person who hated him and knew that he and Wanwan had been involved with each other. Besides that woman, Qi Yun couldn’t think of anyone else. How preposterous of a crazy bitch in a sanatorium! He’s afraid that the Guan family behind her had already joined forces with his enemies to push him towards death.

 

Qi Yun wasn’t afraid of fighting with others, but no matter how difficult it was, he couldn’t involve Wanwan. He suddenly felt a little regretful of his cruel way of settling things after meeting Wanwan. It only gave people a chance to take advantage of his weakness.

 

Things are going to be hard to control, but in any case, he has to wait until Wanwan returns to Country X.

 

In the Shen family, No. 4 reported the current situation to Xing Zhongwan who was standing on the balcony smoking. This afternoon, the Supervisory Committee had sent someone to the Shen family.

 

“Mr. Xue called and said that Mr. Qi returned to the Qi family’s house. This afternoon Qi Zongcheng died. The publically reported cause of death was a sudden heart attack.”

 

Xing Zhongwan smoked a cigarette. Half of his face was hidden by the shadows of the setting sun. It was really fitting of his personality, even dragging his injured body to directly settle the issue.

 

Xing Zhongwan turned around and entered the room, excusing No. 4. He lay on the sofa with one hand covering half of his face. Qi Zongcheng did not do this alone. He hated Qi Yun for ending him, but he would never put the Qi family in danger. It wasn’t his intention to invite a Supervisory Committee to investigate the Shen family, but someone wanted to mess with Qi Yun. The Shen family was interconnected with the Qi family. If there was something wrong, the Qi family would not be able to escape it too, Qi Zongcheng was not stupid.

 

Who was this person? Xing Zhongwan took a deep breath, put his hands in his hair and stared at the ceiling.

 

If the Shen family managed to get through this supervision and review, what should he do next? How are they planning to pull Qi Yun down? Xing Zhongwan suddenly sat up from the sofa, raised his hands to look at the scars on his wrists. Qi Yun was acting too fast. This was a warning to the other party, but it was not the best time. Why was he doing this?

 

Xing Zhongwan’s slender eyes suddenly looked forward, and his pale blue pupils glowed under the cold light… unless someone threatened Qi Yun using his name.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s knuckles cracked. Seems like what he hoped would not happen was still going to occur.

 

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Chapter 21 – We are each other’s weaknesses

 

As soon as Xue Qing got off the plane, she rushed to the hospital. She tried to contact Xing Zhongwan but because the boss was busy and had no time to answer the phone, No. 4. Was instructed to tell President Xue to fully cooperate with the Shen family and let her know that the Qi family cannot be trusted. Zhong Gang wouldn’t be able to stay behind as he was a well-known person in the country. As such, he would be sent back to the company and Xue Qing would be the one to go take his place.

 

Xue Qing had agreed before hanging up the phone.

 

As she entered the hospital, Xue Qing and Zhong Gang happened to meet, but the two did not exchange words and only tacitly glanced at each other.

 

When Xue Qing arrived at the door of the ward, Shen Congxin was sitting outside. He saw Xue Qing and got up quickly. Xue Qing sighed after seeing those eyes were red and swollen from crying. There was really no one competent around Qi Yun.

 

She made a stop gesture at Shen Congxin, rendering him speechless, “Don’t talk for now, I’ll ask you one question at a time, so just answer slowly.”

 

Shen Congxin nodded mutely as Xue Qing breathed a sigh of relief. Now, she needed to determine the current status quo in an orderly manner instead of listening to this confused child incoherently.

 

“How is Qi Yun’s condition?”

 

“He woke up this morning, but went into a coma again. The doctor said that he is out of danger for now.”

 

Xue Qing nodded, “Where’s the person who stabbed him?”

 

“He’s being held in the detention center.”

 

Seemingly influenced by Xue Qing’s calm demeanor, Shen Congxin felt less panicked.

 

“What about the public opinion from the general public?”

 

“There is no major change right now. There is no problem with the media, but I am afraid that the person working behind the scenes will not give up.”

 

Xue Qing squeezed his thin shoulders, “You’ve done a great job so far. Alright, go to rest for a while. I’ll go in and see Qi Yun.”

 

Shen Congxin shook his head, “I’m here to watch my big cousin. If something happens to him, I won’t have the face to go to meet my godmother.”

 

Shen Congxin sat on the chair outside the ward, covering his face. Xue Qing looked back at the closed ward, turned and walked two steps before opening the door.

 

Xue Qing approached and looked at Qi Yun’s condition. He hadn’t woken up yet, but he didn’t look very good. Xue Qing frowned. Just as she was about to go out, she saw Qi Yun’s mouth moving as if he was talking. Xue Qing couldn’t hear clearly and had to lean down closer to Qi Yun’s face.

 

The two words were not very clear in her ears so Xue Qing just stood up straight before leaving the ward. The two words Qi Yun kept saying were actually Wanwan.

 

Xue Qing came out of the ward, spoke with Qi Yun’s attending doctor, checked the time and wanted to call Xing Zhongwan. Shen Congxin came over from the opposite side of the corridor and asked if Xue Qing was going to go eat first. Xue Qing ruffled her hair, “I’m not going to eat. I’ll go back to the hotel to sort things out and come over in the afternoon later.”

 

Shen Congxin seemed to have something to say and hesitated, not knowing how to say it. Xue Qing said, “What do you want to say? Just ask me directly, let’s not waste time on being inefficient, after all, these are dire times.”

 

“Why didn’t Brother Zhongwan come to see my big cousin, he has been… My big cousin has been calling his name. I…”

 

Xue Qing hummed, feeling that the child was too innocent and protected to think that the answer was so simple, “Why didn’t Laoxing come? What happened between them had been closely kept under wraps and outsiders may not be able to do much. Sometimes, when there are intricate spider webs, one must be careful about what they say and do at the moment when these webs are not yet fully realized. If Laoxing didn’t come to protect Qi Yun, there must be an internal problem. This person might have understood what happened at the time Qi Yun was paralyzed, so Laoxing cannot just simply jump the gun and give the enemy an extra leverage and chance to smear mud on Qi Yun’s name. This scandal would be enough to ruin Qi Yun’s reputation, not to mention that Laoxing is from the X country. If someone makes a fuss about this matter, it will not be as simple as ruining his reputation. Although the relationship between the two countries is good, if you think about it, a speaker of parliament and a wealthy person from country X, there should be no relationship between these two people. If someone with some bad intentions gets the evidence of their true relationship, what will happen to Qi Yun? Can you take a gander?”

 

Shen Congxin almost collapsed to the ground, he really didn’t think so deeply. What will happen to Qi Yun? Thinking of the consequences, Shen Congxin covered his mouth and almost forgot to breathe.

 

Xue Qing took her handbag, kneeled down and patted his shoulder, “Don’t just look at the things happening on the surface, regarding Laoxing… think about it yourself.”

 

Xue Qing got into the elevator and went down to the basement. From the exit of the basement, she exited the hospital and took a taxi to the hotel. After entering the hotel room, she inspected the room for bugs carefully. Only then did she take out her mobile phone and change it to a sim card for contacting Xing Zhongwan. After she made the call, the phone rang for a while before it was picked up. Xing Zhongwan’s voice was a little tired. Xue Qing asked him if it was a good time to talk.

 

“Speak.”

 

Xue Qing started, “Qi Yun’s situation has stabilized and he already woke up once while I was on the way to him.”

 

Xing Zhongwan hummed and Xue Qing continued, “I need more manpower now. People from the Qi family are out of the question and Qi Yun’s secretary has not been found since his accident. I suspect that the secretary was the mole or has been instigated behind the scenes. Now that my situation here is under control, there is still one thing that remains unsettled. What you have to do now is to gather the people serving Qi Yun before his body can recover in order to take control of the current situation. The rest is up to you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was silent for a while, “I’ll tell you the news later. As for more manpower… Shen Congxin should know something. It’s time for that child to grow up. It’s unrealistic to completely avoid the Qi family, and it’s impossible to just watch them from the sidelines. Remember not to cause a head-on conflict. This is not country X, it won’t be favorable for us.”

 

Xue Qing agreed before hanging up. She then took out the sim card, broke it and threw it into the toilet.

 

Xing Zhongwan handed over the mobile phone to No. 4 before rushing back. It all happened through the night so he didn’t sleep well at all. He was now in the Shen family’s house. The first time he came here, Shen Qinghong was still alive and begged him to leave some thought for Qi Yun. The second time, Qi Yun was fighting for his life in the hospital. He could probably guess who the main conspirator was behind the scenes. He doesn’t understand why Qi Yun fell back into the same situation twice. Was the lesson from five years ago not enough?

 

He returned to the living room on the second floor. The people inside were all the elders of the Shen family and Shen Qinghong’s former confidants. As soon as Qi Yun entered the hospital, the Shen family was in chaos and they didn’t know what to do. Xing Zhongwan had gathered them together in the Shen family’s old house.

 

“Qi Yun won’t be able to take care of things this time, so it’s a good opportunity for them to take advantage of the situation. The scandal about his dysfunctional family is not enough to destroy him, so I guess that their next move would be towards the Shen family.”

 

Xing Zhongwan sat down and took a sip of tea. The Vice President wiped the sweat from his forehead. All the old people in the room already knew what happened between Qi Yun and Xing Zhongwan back then. What’s more, in the old lady’s will, Xing Zhongwan now owns 30% of the shares in the Shen family. Although the bracelet was not in his hands now, Qi Yun’s position at the annual general meeting of shareholders was always vacant. Everyone knew this.

 

“What do you think we should do next?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took a document from No. 3’s hand, “It is impossible that the Shen family has operated cleanly for so many years. Now that Qi Yun is in the hospital, it cannot be ruled out that someone will try to make a fuss during this time. It is impossible for you to always be concerned about the bad apples in the whole group that you usually turn a blind eye to. Now, that small problem may turn into a big mistake. Qi Yun has not woken up, so he can’t protect the Shen family. It is possible that the problems from the Shen family will be used to drag him into the mud. You don’t have to make too many changes or solve all the problems now. Just make sure all the departments, especially the finance department, can’t make any statements anytime soon.”

 

Several of them were very sharp, so they immediately understood the meaning of Xing Zhongwan’s words.

 

Xing Zhongwan gave out the documents in his hand, “You can focus on these aspects to find the culprit. The Shen family and Qi Yun are both prosperous. However, prosperity and detriment are two sides of the same coin.”

 

Vice President Chen looked at the document in his hand and was surprised. There was regret as he looked at Xing Zhongwan’s eyes again. Why was he not a woman, if he were a woman, sigh…

 

Xing Zhongwan got up and said, “If there’s nothing else, go back first. You can contact my secretary later.”

 

When everyone was almost gone, Xing Zhongwan took out a cigarette. Just as he was about to light it, a lighter was brought up beside him, Xing Zhongwan squinted his eyes, “You haven’t left yet?”

 

Vice President Chen lit his cigarette, “I want to thank you. You can actually relax and disregard our family situation for now.”

 

Xing Zhongwan took a drag but his throat was a little uncomfortable. He hadn’t eaten or drank for almost a day, and his brain was full of thoughts on how he could help Qi Yun.

 

“Actually, Young Master Yun wrote a will three years ago.”

 

Xing Zhongwan turned his head, “What? A will?”

 

Vice President Chen nodded, “After his death, you will inherit 40% of the equity in the Shen family.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was stunned for a while with the cigarette in hand. He suddenly laughed, “He’s really crazy.”

 

Vice President Dong Chen smiled, “We outsiders don’t understand the things between you two, but it’s really been difficult for Young Master Yun for the past few years. The relationship between you and the young master will bring trouble, but aside from this, I also hope that Young Master Yun can be happy. He has nothing to be happy about in his life and the only one he can’t let go of is you. This old man is old and has a lot to say. Just don’t say what you don’t mean and follow your heart.”

 

Vice President Chen had already left, but Xing Zhongwan stood in the living room for a long time until the cigarette in his hand burned his fingertips.

 

Xing Zhongwan lowered his head, chuckled and pressed the cigarette butt into the ashtray.

 

His tense nerves finally loosened a little. Xing Zhongwan leaned over and had a cramp in his stomach. He knew that leaving him alone was the best choice, but he just couldn’t let him go. He couldn’t see Qi Yun get into another accident. It was like that five years ago, and it was still the same now.

 

Qi Yun finally woke up at night and Shen Congxin’s eyes flowed with tears of joy. When Qi Yun turned his head to the side with difficulty and saw Xue Qing, his still chaotic mind instantly understood the situation. He looked at him and opened his mouth, “Don’t let Wanwan come.”

 

Shen Congxin cried more fiercely when he heard it. When he was in a coma, he kept calling Wanwan’s name. The first sentence he woke up was, don’t let Xing Zhongwan come. You, yourself are already in this condition, yet you still did not want to implicate cousin-in-law.

 

“Don’t worry, he won’t come over to the Shen family’s house. You can ask me to do anything that is inconvenient these days.”

 

Qi Yun struggled to get up from the bed and Shen Congxin hurried to help. Xue Qing sighed, “Don’t be brave. Aren’t you seriously injured? Don’t worry about Laoxing.”

 

Qi Yun frowned, grabbed the sheets and raised his head to look at Xue Qing, “Go back. Go back to Country X, Wanwan.”

 

Xue Qing pulled the chair aside and sat down, “He won’t leave, not until he sees that you’re safe. He won’t go back. You should know his temperament as well as he knows your’s.”

 

Qi Yun lay back on the bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering what to think. After a long time, he said, “I will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow.” Shen Congxin’s expression changed, “Big cousin, you are crazy. How are you going to leave the hospital now?”

 

Qi Yun looked at Xue Qing with a calm expression, “I know who did it.”

 

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